Juicy Literature

Teacher Becky: Goodness! Wallyyyyyy!!! How many times do I have to tell you to please write neatly? What is the matter with you?! Look at that! What is that? I can't read it!!! Its super kadooper ugly! FUGLY! Ugly I tell you! Argh! Why did you make it too ugly?! Huh? Why so ugly??? You know what?! That's it! I'll have to erase it! Yes, ALL of it! Erase, erase, erase! You want that, you want that?! I didn't think so! But too bad, boo-hoo. That's what you get for not writing it properly! Now you have to write EVERYTHING, all over again!!! And you better make your handwriting pretty this time! Or else no cookie!

Wally: Pretty?

Teacher Becky: You heard me. Yes, pretty!!!

Wally: Pretty like you?

My Little Angel

2008-04-17T12:18:00.000-07:00

Hey why are you not smiling?

Because I'm not happy.

Sorreee...

Oh no baby, it's not your fault. I'm just a bit sad.

Why are you sad?

Because I have a friend and he's giving me away...

I don't think he likes me anymore.

But me, I like you. I want you forever.

You don't go na to your friend because he's already a bad boy!

Aww baby... you know I love you.

Why do you like me?

Because you're a good girl.

*hugs me* I just want to hug!

Hey you're smiling!

Yes, because you made me happy.

Children.. they really are heaven sent.

Hey Kid, You're Up!

2008-04-10T19:57:00.000-07:00

Look...

I did my part.

I gave "us" a shot.

Oh, and yeah, I gave you my heart.

And you know what?

I. AM. SO. FREAKING. DONE... TRYING.

So ok, your turn now.

Tick tock.

Thank You For This...

2008-01-25T22:32:00.000-08:00

It has made my teenage days incredibly kilig... And after all these years, it still takes my breath away :)

Heath Ledger

1979 - 2008

Tra-la-la... :-)

2007-11-02T10:53:00.000-07:00

On a Monday, I am waiting
Tuesday, I am fading
And by Wednesday, I can't sleep
Then the phone rings, I hear you
And the darkness is a clear view
Cause you've come to rescue me

Fall... With you, I fall so fast
I can hardly catch my breath, I hope it lasts

Ohhhhh
It seems like I can finally rest my head on something real
I like the way that feels
It's as if you know me better than I ever knew myself
I love how you can tell
All the pieces, pieces, pieces of me
All the pieces, pieces, pieces of me

I am moody, messy
I get restless, and it's senseless
How you never seem to care
When I'm angry, you listen
Make me happy it's your mission
And you won't stop till I'm there

Fall, sometimes I fall so fast
When I hit that bottom crash
You're all I have

How do you know everything I'm about to say?
Am I that obvious?
And if it's written on my face...
I hope it never goes away... yeah

On a Monday, I am waiting
And by Tuesday, I am fading into your arms...
So I can breathe.

I'm Wrong, and I'm Sorry.

2007-10-31T20:07:00.000-07:00

I hope I didn't screw up. I hope I didn't screw it this time. Please, it can't be that bad, right?

A good thing came a long, you came along. And what did I do? I failed to appreciate you and instead I pushed you away. I think I might have driven you away, far far away. You have to tell me it isn't so, or I will just roll over and die! Hehe, exage -- but you get my point.

How so silly of me to not like you before because you have always been nice to me, extra nice, actually. There's so many things nice things about you, where do I start? Well you're funny, in a yucky baduy kinda way. But who cares, you make me laugh! You wear eyeglasses, it sure makes you look dorky, me likey! :) I now care about the news, your influence. You're a good influence. I super enjoy our little "adventures" in our very own looney tunes world! I like it when you tease me, and boy do you do that too often, I miss it when you don't. I like that you like me. I love the fact that you drive me around in your bulok car, even if God knows you're so freakin rich you could afford to buy like a top-of-the-line vavavoom sports car. Your sooo kuripot, I love that about you. But you never are kuripot when it comes to me. You've always given me the best, thank you. I like the person that I am when I'm with you. I'm a happier version of myself with you. You make me happy, genuinely happy. I've dated soooo many guys in the past and while it's true that they too have made me happy, it's just the kilig kind of happy. But with you, I get the kind of happiness that can only come from contentment. You make me feel secure. And its such a great feeling -- that sense of security. We'll just be in my house talking, watching, eating and already I'm fine with that. No fancy dinners, no smooth talks. Come to think of it, we are boring huh? But we are okay with what we've got. And isn't that what great relationships are all about?

You're probably wondering why all of a sudden I changed my mind about you. Well maybe because I've recently realized all the wonderful things that you did for me. I'm so used to doing things for other people. But you, you do things for me -- you take care of me. You're oh-so caring, did I ever tell that? Of course I didn't, because I've been a bad bad girl. Yet and still you've put up with me, my tantrums, whining and bratinella ways. You're the best! I've always loved to sing, but for some reason I just never do it in front of other people. But with you, when we go karaoke, I'm like "is it my turn yet, is it my turn yet?!" Haha. I guess it's because I feel totally completely comfy around you. That or I don't get shy because your voice is even more pangit than mine! Ha! But of course you wouldn't admit that, would you? Ha ha! You know I like it when we're singing together. Lately, it's like my most favorite thing to do. We make such terrible terrible music together, but what the heck, at least we do it together. Together. I'd like that. And I like the idea of "us". I could see myself with you, forever. Till death do us part. Of course I didn't see that before. I was stupid and busy flirting with someone else. But it's different now, really. I now know what I've got, when I have you. So please, please don't go away. Let me make it up to you. I'll be way sweeter this time around, pwomise. Just please stay. You have to stay... because I think I like you already.

Fine, I like you, period. And I'm hoping you still like me too :-(

xxx,
B.

I'm Engaged!

2007-10-11T22:39:00.000-07:00

... to a 4 year old kiddo!

Tricia: Teacher Becky you know Martin has a lot of girlfriends! He has five! Chloe, Denise, Teacher Maan, Sam and Kimmy.
Marty: I've got seven! You fogat Tara and Annika. And teachow, Yow my new goalfwend.
B: Ha ha ha, silly!
Marty: I wuv you. Will you mewee me?
B: Aww, you really really really want to marry me???
Marty: Yes, becaws yow sooo pweetty...
B: You think I'm pretty? *blush blush*
Marty: I want to mewee you everyday. Six hundred milwon times!
B: But you have a lot of other girlfriends... seven of 'em to be exact!
Marty: If you mawee me, you'll be my ONE and ONLY goalfwend... Pwomise!
B: Alrighty then, you may now kiss your bride ;-D
Marty: Mmmwaaaah!
B: Oh but wait, but I'm way too old for you already. So why don;t you just find someone your age.
Marty: But I'm gonna be five yis old soon!!!

Who Needs a Boyfriend?!

2007-10-11T22:37:00.000-07:00

... when you've got the sweetest bunch of students ever!!! :-)

paper aeroplane love letter from my secret "admirere"

I'll Be Dreaming of U...nicorns Tonight :-)

2007-07-22T23:43:00.000-07:00

It's been months - close to a year now actually - since I first saw him. But it was only hours ago when it finally truly hit me... At the risk of sounding "illusyonada", I think he likes me too :) And probably, if I'm lucky, he even has a tiny bit of a crush on me... *sigh* Dreams really do come true.

All righty, that's all for tonight folks. I'm gonna go to sleep now... with a great big smile on my face, and little fluffy clouds in my heart ;-D

Sweet dreams y'all! Kiss, kiss!

Naughty n' Nice

2007-07-17T23:07:00.000-07:00

Teacher B: Why do you keep putting your hands inside my shirt?
Santi: Because you're soft...
Teacher B: Okay like this, next time you feel like touching something softie, go grab a pillow kidokie? Touch that instead.
Santi: *whiny voice* But I want to check YOU!!! Cause maybe you are sick...
Teacher B: You mean like a doctor checking his patient?
Santi: Exactly!
Teacher B: Oh, so you're a doctor now, is that it?
Santi: Yep!
Teacher B: Well then, if that's the case, I guess you could give me a check-up. But only once in a while... I don't get sick often anyways.

hands off. please.

aha! caught in the act.

Santi: What are you wearing?!
Teacher B: Why? Don't you like it?
Santi: I don't! It's uglyyy!!!
Teacher B: It's hot and sexy kaya! Whatever Santi! Ok now, let's study!
*after 5 mins...
Teacher B: As in you really really reaaalllyyy think my dress looks fugly???
Santi: No, its nice... *shy smile*
Santi: What's that? (points to the zipper of my halter dress)
Teacher B: It's a zippy zipper. The word "zipper" starts with the letter?
Santi: "Z". Umm, can I open it? Just to see how the it works?
Teacher B: Santino! Of course you know exactly how a zipper works!
Santi: Oh yeah, I forgot! *slaps his forehead*

***

Reuj: Teacher Becky! Close your eyes... I've got a surprise for you!
Me: Wheee! I looove surprises! What is it?!
*puts something under my nose
Me: Mmm... smells yum yum! Can I look now?! Can I look now?!
Reuj: Not yet...
Me: How about now???
Reuj: You wait!
Me: NOW?!!
Reuj: Ok, now!
* on the table I found a tall glass of choco milkshake, banana "ice cream" and brownies
Me: Huwaw! Did you make all these for me?!
Reuj: Uh huh! And you know what's my secret ingredient?
Me: Nope, you tell me...
Reuj: Love.

Santino: You want to know a secret?
Me: Mmm hmm...
Santino: Give me your ear, I'll whisper...
Santino: I love my teacher. *KISS!*

Me: Guys!!! I wanna die na! My crush doesn't like me anymore... Not that he liked me to begin with, well I don't know... Hu hu hu!
Santi: Then go get another!
Me: But I want HIM!
Santi: You play with him. He likes that.
Me: Play huh??? Hmmm... Interesting.
Reuj: Why ba? What did you do to him? Maybe you slapped him in the face!
Me: Nothing! I don't know... I'm confused! Well actually, it's cause he has a girlfriend na... Hu hu hu!
Reuj: Just give him time. As soon as he realizes he is with someone stupid - not like you, you are wonderful - he's gonna come crawling back to you!
Me: You think??? Awww... You guys!!!
Me: Come here boys, teacher Becky needs a hug... hu hu hu! :-(

*My two kids gave me a fat kiss and big hug. And just like that, everything's okay again... :-)

10 Things I Love About My Favorite Boy

2007-05-18T08:13:00.000-07:00

1. I love that we start our morning by making "love love" (that's our code for big bear hug, you pervert!)
2. I am addicted to his scent. I swear, Christian is the sweetest smelling baby ever! Well not so much na, after he played all morning long. Hehe.
3. I love love looove to kiss his big fluffly tummy. And his manboobs too! Yup, he's got those. Tabachuchi Tian-tian kinda reminds me of the Michelin tires mascot!
4. Whenever Christian would hear me say "ouch!", he would come rushing towards me to kiss my "yayay" (baby talk for wound) After the kiss, with a proud look on his face he would tell me "There, no more 'aww-wee' (ouchy) na!" Talk about kissing the pain away.
5. I love it when he is being so dumb! Adorably dumb. Like when he would fall flat on his face, he gets up (in slow motion), looks at me straight in the eye and asks "Are you ok?" Hahaha, baliktad! Parang ako dapat nagtatanong nun ah! Never fails to make leave me in stitches!
6. I love it when he is being so smart! Skedadle, walrus, shiver (and a couple more highfaluting words) are all in his vocabulary. And get this, the kid is not even 3 years old yet! Impressive.
7. He fancies tickling my ear with his soft chubby little fingers, then he would whisper "I love you teacher Becca". Five little words I always love to hear.
8. I love the fact that this boy looks a lot like me. Not that I look like a boy, or that he looks like a girl. But you get what I mean? Funny, the yaya's and/or parents of the other kiddos thinks Christian is my child! Actually, he would pass for my younger bro. But as my son? I dont know about that.. I'm too young to have a kid! So why would they even entertain thoughts like that?! But sure, I'd like to have babies as cutie pie as him, in maybe five years time.
9. Whenever he sees a classmates crying, baby boy would approach the crybaby, storke his/her hair, cup his/her face, then he would say "It's okay, don't be sad, Christian is here." Aaaww... Melts my heart, everytime.
10. And finally, he puts a smile on my face, when I see a smile on his:

Election Rocks!

2007-05-15T07:31:00.000-07:00

Ace, our youth ministry's chair asked me to head the food committee for the upcoming church-sponsored election thingy. Without batting an eyelash, I said yes. Well actually, I say "yes" to everything this guy asks me to do. Hello, how can I possibly say "no" to someone who is well on his way to becoming a priest. Well this I'm not 100% percent sure, but I get this strong vibrations (madam auring is that you?) that Ace will be. And he'd be a great one someday. Anyways, like I've said, I haven't given the whole food serving thing a thought. I was very causal about it, I mean how hard could it be right? As far as I'm concerned, all I have to do is:

1. Place orders: 100 packs of yummy, filling, BUT cheap food and have it delivered 30mins before actual serving time.
2. Buy enough juices for everyone, and keep them refreshingly cool.
3. Make sure there's enough coffee for the sleepy.
4. Provide the essentials: tissue paper, garbage bags, water, etc.

So there, that's not so hard. But then when I told my dad I was to head the food com, he started to interrogate me. "How many precincts are there? Will the poll watchers encode as well? Etc. Etc. Etc." To all his questions, I kept my answer short and simple "Daddy, I don't really know" Dad wasn't pleased. He then started his monologue about the importance of logistics, strategical analysis, managing your staff properly, having a plan A to E. Gooseness, I'm not to become CEO of a multinational company. I'm just gonna feed 100 people, max. Do I really really need these? Apparently, according to daddy dearest, I do. So he proceeds with his crash course lecture on business management (Sadly, most of the stuff didn't sink in. I'm not cut out to be a business person you see). Father ends his homily by telling me "It's not like in school, when you screw up all you get is a bad grade. This has real consequences. You make a stupid decision, consequences. You overlook something, consequences. Being head of something is not to be taken sitting down. Head is not called "head" for nothing. It means - if you're head - you're suppose to use you head." Gee, thanks for the pep talk dad. I feel much better now. Kidding aside, Dad's mini seminar about the harsh realities did shake some sense into my puny head. I guess I needed to hear that to make me less complacent and start worrying about the things that I should have been worrying about in the first place. Like what will I wear to the event. You know things like that, things that matter. ;-p

The night before election day, everything on my checklist was checked. Ok, I can relax now. And relax, that's exactly what I did. I knew I was going to do a lot of work the following day, so I decided to get a massage thinking it will prepare me for the laborious task ahead. Wrong move. I woke up with aching muscles and a sore back. Don't blame the masseuse, it's my fault. I requested "hard". So there, she gave me a hard massage... and a bruised leg. Again, not Ms. Masseuse's bad. I really bruise easily, my body is retarded.

So anyway, there's no time to sulk over my poor badly beaten thigh. The show must go on. And it did. Everything, thank goodness, was smooth sailing. The food I ordered arrived on time, the drinks we served stayed cold, snacks were overflowing. So ya, everyone had a full happy tummy. Whew! Pat on the back for me! But of course, it would have been a complete disaster without the help of my fabulous 'Food Staff' namely Katrina, Jay and of course Patrick. Patrick is the boy version of me. Most everyone thinks we're siblings. Not that I’m complaining. Actually, I don’t mind at all... Just as long as they realize that I am the CUTER sibling! Mwahaha! No, I take that back, of course, we are EQUALLY cute.. Pero mejo lamang lang ako ng isang paligo! Hahaha, ayaw talaga magpatalo eh! Well, that’s sibling rivalry for you! But we do kinda look alike, seriously. Naturally, people kept making us kulit - insisting we're siblings. I had given up on explaining to people that we are not related, so when someone asks, Patrick and I just decided to tell them, that yes indeed, we are siblings. Anyway, that's what they want to hear. So from that day on, I became his 'atchi' and he is my 'shoti'. Kat, Jay and 'shoti' Pat all did a fantastic job! A simple 'Thank You' will never seem enough... but I'm hoping these lollipop cookies with heart candy would do:

A little past 11am, Marvin Agustin, the actor, came to cast his vote... Hopefully not for his fellow artistas. Papa Marvin in the house, oh now things are starting to heat up! Haha! Although I must admit, I didn't find him cute at all. Ok fine, maybe he was a wee cute. But I was never a fan. My heart always belonged to his Whattamen buddy Dominic Ochoa. Yes, I followed that sitcom religiously. Thank God my ka-jologan days are so over. Or is it really? Tee-hee! ;-p

ka-jologan moment: kodakan with papa marvin

After the food com distributed lunch, there was really not much left to do. Mirienda won't be served until another three hours. So we decided, actually, Patrick decided to go make takas, and chill at a mall. It sounded very tempting. But I'm the head, I should know better. So i said "All righty, you guys go. But I'll stay behind. Just in case." Of course, they didn't want to go without me. Makes sense really, cause nothing is ever fun without M-E. Yeah right! ;-p Well, I did want my "staff" to have fun. After all, they deserved it. They were sooo great remember? So I decided to just ditch the polling place. What the heck. I mean, I'd be gone for just two short hours, the poll watchers won't die. They're old already, they can take care of themselves. Sure, the idea of 'abandoning' my poll watchers made me guilty, but I know I'd feel guiltier if I don't let my 'staff' (who worked their asses off for me) have their fair share of fun. As if sensing my feelings of guilt, our newly installed parish priest Fr. Noel came up to me to give me the green light. And to make me feel less guilty about leaving the polling premise he said "I saw you kids worked so hard, you earned this lakwacha." So off we went. The nearest mall was Robinson's Galleria, it was just across La Salle Greenhills (venue) so we made made tambay at the Starbucks there. Over a cup of Vanilla Frap, we talked about our lovelives, or the lack thereof. Then Patrick was placed on the hot seat. Turns out, his lovelife is totally showbiz (read: full of pretty artistas!) Why am I not surprised? Well, my shoti deserves pretty girls, after all, he's not bad looking himself. Actually, he's quite a pretty boy, he's a such a what's cooking good looking! Shempre mana sa atchi, that's me! Lucky him, he inherited his atchi's good genes! *ehem ehem* I also found out that my shoti Patrick is a debater, excuse me, captain of the debate team baby! Whatta smarty. Now if only I was sixteen, then this is the guy that I would be totally dating. But the thing is, I'm not sixteen anymore, so the mere thought of me dating this child, I repeat, child, makes me want to puke. Eeek! The whole Galle experience was loads of fun. We were like prisoners on the loose! Oh how we devoured our freedom!After Starbucks, we went to my most fav shop in the whole wide world, Toys R Us! And we had our pichur with Pikachu:

We went back after an hour and a half, 30 mins earlier than we promised. See, were a bunch of good little children. We came back just in time to serve snacks and coffee. And before we knew it, diner was to be distributed. Then midnight snacks.

All in all, I fed 90 plus people, six times in just one day. I was more than ready to go home. But somebody needs to take care of the garbage disposal, and that somebody was me. Actually, I don't recall applying for that job, but its already there, what choices do I have? Mr. Janitor went home already cause hello, it's only a few minutes before the clock strikes 12. I'm gonna be completely honest with you, garbage collecting isn't exactly peaches n' cream. It's more like rotten tomatoes n' vinegar, or cockroach n' booger - whatever is more gross. I know garbage is garbage, and it's yuck and all, but really, it's not so bad. It's actually a good experience, but not something I'd like to do within in the next six months.

A gazillion grossee stinky trash bags later... At long last, I'm free to go home! I came home dog tired, but I couldn't be any happier. Because for once in my life, I've done something wonderful for society. So vote for me! :)

My Mentor Turns Sweet Sixteen (Ehem!)

2007-05-08T22:59:00.000-07:00

Pagbigyan na, birthday naman eh! ;-p

"i love you cupcakes"
gets? 1-2-3 = i-love-you . corny, i know!

birthday mini cake

the good (see the shirt?) birthday girl blows

Happy Birthday Teacher Bebette! We love you! Mwah!

Boys, boys, boooyyysss!!!

2007-05-03T17:00:00.000-07:00

If I were an airline, this must be my "peak season". I've got a handful of guys right now... But hey, nothing I can't handle ;-p

Cradle Snatcher

2007-05-03T16:39:00.000-07:00

17 yr old boy: Do I look like a kid to you?
Me: Umm... well... You know what, it's way past your nappy time. Remember, you are a growing boy. You're gonna be needing all the shuteye that you can get. Nytienyt! Oh and don't forget to drink your milk!

***

Aaahhh... Being the "pantasya" of a seventeen year old boy, oh boy, there is absolutely nothing like it. Geez, it feels sooo darn good! And I am soo going to hell!

I know, I know, flirting with a boy under eighteen is just not acceptable. And there must even be some law out there that says it's illegal. But hey, I'm no lawyer, so what the hell! Haha! I know it's sick, but really, there's nothing like being wooed by a teenager. I believe that guys are at their sweetest when they are still boys. They grow up, become men, and poof, the sweetness is all gone. That's why I don't get it why most girls hate guys with he Peter Pan complex. Because me... I likey! I'd love to be the Wendy to their Peter Pan.

Let's play, all day, Peter Pan! :)

This Guy's In Love With You Pare

2007-05-03T09:03:00.000-07:00

Him: Why? Why are you kissing dating goodbye? Aren't you too beautiful and sweet to say goodbye this early - unless you're attached ;)
Me: Aawww.. you're totally adorable! :) Nah, I'm not beautiful... just cute! Charing! ;-p
Him: But you are beautiful and I don't tell girls that a lot, believe me. :) If I were straight (or who knows, soon..) I would have been totally smitten by you. :) You'd make a lovely wife someday. I trust that you will be...

***

Oh. No. It's happening. AGAIN. I think I'm falling.. for someone gay. Well maybe its not really "falling". I'm probably just flattered. But its hard to tell because I've got this history of falling head over heels for gay-la-loos. Months back, my besty Chiqui texted me "Hey Mahar, just finished watching Clueless. Just remembered you. You're so like Cher! Pareho pa kayong mahilig ma-in love sa bading! Haha!" See, I've got this reputation of being a gay "lover"!

Yup, I am attracted to gay guys, and guys who are on their way to becoming a priest. So what now? Of course, I can't marry neither of the two. Because in doing so, well that would just be so wrong, on many many levels.

I am beginning to feel that I'm destined to spend the rest of my life alone... Unless You come around. Please come around, and save me. Be my hero. Um, I don't mean to sound bratty and all, but can You come like NOW na?!

Dating Game

2007-05-03T04:51:00.000-07:00

Why, he is not so bad! I think I kinda actually sorta like him? He's slowly growing on me. Of course, as of last count, (I'm dating seven guys, or was it eight?) he still is not on the top of my list. And currently, he ranks forth in my "favorite scale". BUT he might make it to second runner-up spot , after all. Why nat chocnat?!

As for first place, well that will always be reserved for You. So come and get me, baby! ;-p

The Travelling Gingerbread Man

2007-04-25T08:02:00.000-07:00

After seeing the pics above, you're probably thinking, "tama ba namang mag bake sa floor?!" Relax, we were just pretending to bake. The actual gingerbread boy that we ate, I made the night before. So no, we did not eat dirty gingerbreads. I repeat, not dirty. Imagine if we made our students eat the dough that was rolled on the floor, oh my, lawsuit waiting to happen! I don't even want to think about it!

Can I just make kwento that my gingerbreads are so lakwachero, very much like its baker! Haha! One breadman went swimming at Punta Fuego c/o Martin. The other two played golf at Sta. Elena -- my fav art class students Sophia and Stella ate theirs while waiting for tee off. Half a dozen went to Baguio (the ones I packed for my family for them to eat during the long trip). There was also a breadman jetsetter, who traveled all over Asia, many thanks to Luigi. And yes, a pair went on a date.. I went out with two different guys in just one week! And I gave both my dates a gingerbread each. But this one guy that I didn't like so much, I gave him the breadman with an "amputated leg". I accidentally broke the poor cookie's leg while I was frosting it. Since i didn't like that guy, all he gets is the amputated one. How mean of me ba? But hello, at least nga I even bothered to give him, never mind if it's putol! Hehe!

Oh wait, actually three gingerbreads should have gone on a date, but I backed out the last minute on my third and final date. I don't know, I just didn't feel like seeing K that day. So instead I just gave the breadman, that was suppose to be for my date K, to my neighbor who was moving out. It was like my going away present for him. Well it's not like as if we're we're chummy chums. I mean, I just see him often at church cause he's a choir boy there, and I'm a collector girl. That's all. But I still gave him K's gingerbread anyways... Because I'd rather that my yummy cookies go to someone that I barely know (but who seems nice) than to someone like K. Not that K's a jerk, he never was. And I don't think he will ever be capable of being one. It's just that, I hate the fact that he is out of the country all the time (studying). Anything long distance is hard. So why start something if... you get my drift?

Turning K down was so hard especially because his invitation was this sweet: ".....Anyway... We should catch up sometime! I mean if you're not busy of course... How do you like Max Brenner? I'll buy you a cup o choco! What a deal!!! And yes I'm trying to 'buy forgiveness'... if you'll let me?" Naks... Shu-wee-tess line I've heard in a long time. Hehe! But seriously now, I think I find it sweet because deep down inside, I know it is not just a line. He actually means it, he truly is sorry. K is being sincere with me... like he has always been (?)

I wish K doesn't have to travel so much. I hope he'll stay put and just leave all the traveling to the gingerbread man. I wish!

Who Stole the Muffin from the Muffin Pan?!

2007-04-25T07:40:00.000-07:00

Napapapikit at tumulo pa laway ni Christian sa sarap!
How can I not love this kid?!

Cookie Monster's Biggest Cookie

2007-04-25T07:08:00.000-07:00

Let's Get Physical

2007-04-13T02:57:00.000-07:00

strike a pose

... and bend... and stretch

buti na lang maputi kilikili ko! ;-p

Art Attack

2007-04-13T02:33:00.000-07:00

"artists" becky and roxy

playing favorites: sisters sophia & stella

summer art class 2007

Kiddie Picnicki, Babar the Elephant Style

2007-04-13T02:18:00.000-07:00

packing our yummy snacks... mmm mmm!

at johnson's park looking for the "perfect spot" for our picnic

went up the hill, do we see a perfect spot? don't think so!

aha, the beach! but no, no, no... still not the perfect spot

tah-dah! finally, a perfect spot! now we can eat! hooray!

The End

Yabang Moment... and Proud of It!

2007-04-11T16:43:00.000-07:00

There's this toy store that sells Disney Princess, PowerPuff Girls, Strawberry Shortcake and Barbie merchandises. I frequent that place so much that the shop girl already gives me this "hey you're back again!" smile. Paano ba naman, I'm there at least once every week! Today, I went back again for the one hundred twenty seven million eighteen bazillion nineth time. And the very same tindera assisted me. And once again, she gave me that "smile". I returned her smile and said:

Me: Haha, ako naman! Baka nasasawa ka na sakin ha..
Shop girl: Ay hindi po! Pero bakit parang hindi ho kayo nauubusan ng bibibili?
Me: Pang prizes ko kasi sa mga students ko.
Shop girl: Wow! Eh di favorite kayo ng mga estudyante nyo?
Me: *without batting an eyelash* Ay OO!!!

I was actually taken aback by my answer: Oo with a capital "O" with matching exclamation points. Was that really me who said that?! Did those words really really escaped my lips?! I mean, I am one who doesn't know how to take compliments very easily. When someone says something nice about me, I normally just brush it off as if I never heard anything, or I blush profusely and give a shy smile. Sometimes, I even go as far as telling the 'complimentor', "Oh no, I'm not really *insert whatever complement*. You are much too kind".

I've always had a problem dealing with compliments most likely because I am the most insecure girl walking this side of the planet. But for once in my life, I am confident about something. I may not be many things, but this much I can say... I am one helluva kick ass teacher!!!

BAWAL ang kumontra!

Ha ha happy Easter!

2007-04-08T17:31:00.000-07:00

Have an egg-stra special Easter
you guys!!!

Lotsa Love:
Miffy Muffin & Tikki Truffle

Mommy's Mini-me

2007-03-22T10:25:00.000-07:00

I’ve been eating Conti’s chicken pie for the last three weeks or so. Every single day. And the funny thing is I don’t get sawa. Well that’s the (good?) thing with me, if I like something so much, I will never lose interest in it. There won’t come a day when 'my like' will finally bore me.

Having said that, M, I will never marry you. I don’t like you, at all. We’ve been together only a couple of times, and already I am sawa with you. Like I don’t want to see more of you anymore. The more I see you, all the more I get tired of you. So there is no chance in hell that I am going to be “Mrs. M”... No matter how much my mother thinks you are appropriate. Never mind that my friends tell me you are going to make me a “queen”. I don’t care that you are filthy rich! Because quite frankly, I don’t need your money to make me happy. It doesn’t have to be Le Souffle for me everyday. I can live on a 22-peso Conti’s chicken pie alone.

In fairness to M, he really is a great guy. Most girlaloos actually consider him quite a catch. And M is every mother's dream son-in-law. The guy is incredibly intelligent, comes from a decent family, is really religious, he’s handsome in a conventional way, and of course like I said, he is freaking loaded. So really, what’s there not to like, right? Maybe I’m just crazy. Make that extra crazy. But no matter how hard I try to tell myself that M is all that, I still couldn’t find it in my heart to love him. Sure, on paper, M is my perfect 10. He's got all the attributes of a guy that I have always asked Mama Mary for. But when he is there, right in front of me, M just doesn't do it for me. There is absolutely no chemistry, and I don't get even the slightest bit of kilig. I am not feeling anything, period. I don’t know if I don’t love him because I DON’T LOVE HIM, plain and simple as that. Or I don’t love him because I am in love with someone else...

Sad thing is, I would probably end up with this M guy eventually. You see, I do whatever my mother tells me. Growing up, I was trained to never question, and to always say 'yes'. I am 21 years old and I still ask my mommy what I should order from the menu, what dress to wear for a hot date, and who I must date. To this day, mother dear still has a strong hold on me. She has always been the voice inside my head -- telling me what to do, what not to do. That is why I don't really have a mind of my own. But how I wish that sometimes, she will entitle me to follow my own feelings. But then again, I am my mommy’s little battery operated robot. And robots are not suppose to feel anything... But I am not complaining. I know that my mom only want what's best for me. And the "mother knows best" theory is what keeps me hanging on.

Nightmare

2007-03-22T09:58:00.000-07:00

My best friend Chiqui and I have a strong connection (that's why we're BFF's, duh!) It's like we've got this ESP thing going on. We could go without talking for weeks, yet, we still can somehow sense what's happening with each others lives.

Ever since Chiqui had a new boyfriend, we don't get to talk as much as we want to. She'd rather talk to her boylet, that's why! Yes, I admit, I am jelly! Hahaha! No, but the guy is nice naman and he treats her right, so I guess he's fine. Biglang bawi eh! ;-p So anyhoo, since we haven't been talking lately, she's not updated with the going-ons in my ~~love~~ life. I haven't had the chance to tell her about M, so besty doesn't know that he even exists in my orbit.

Last Valentine's Day however, Chix sent me this uber long text message telling me that even if she has a boyfriend na, I'm still the love of her life blah blah.. Dapat lang! Haha! Then she finished off her text by making kwento that she had a Vday dream about me. "You know in my dream you were about to get married. In our former school's ground. I didn't know who the guy was, basta all I know is that you dont like him. Papano ba naman nag mamaktol ka during the entire wedding ceremony!"

Ohmygulay! Even if I'm super dooper close to Chiqui, I never told her that I always fantasized of holding my wedding at my old school's lawn. It has a nice garden you see, that's why I like it there. I never told Chix this because being the copycat that she is, she might make me kopya! Hahaha! Seriously now, so maybe there's some truth to her dream. I will get my dream wedding location, but not my dream guy...

Mama Mary please don't make this dream come true, please don't make this dream come true. Because if it does, all my childhood dreams of happily ever after will be shattered :-(

FATHER Forgive Me For I Have Sinned

2007-03-20T21:43:00.000-07:00

I met my students' parents today. Most of them, I already know. I’ve seen them a couple of times before. There were a lot of new faces though. Handsome faces. There was one father in particular, who really stood out. This Daddy-O breezed through the room, looking every inch a dashing debonair. Turned my head, oh yes he did! Whatta yummy daddy indeed! Well not that I like him (Eek! He is very much married, FYI) I’m just saying... ;-p

So now I’m looking forward to more PTC's… and maybe coffee sometime? Holy cow, I can’t believe I'm actually entertaining ~~lustful~~ thoughts as such! Blame it on his killer smile. And broad shoulders. And dreamy eyes...

Brownie Monster

2007-03-18T23:58:00.000-07:00

My nephew Enzo had french onion soup, three pieces of dinner rolls, and a slab of steak with a dollop of mashed potatoes for lunch. Two giant scoops of vanilla ice cream capped off his hearty meal. Thinking he's got a full stomach already, I decided not to offer him the fudgy brownies that I made earlier that day anymore. He's got enough food inside his big flabby tummy to last him for three days anyways. And eating some more might actually cause him to puke. But then upon seeing my basket full of brownies, he rushed over to me. Using his most irresistibly cute voice he asked "Tita Rowbeckaah, did you bake that for me?" With matching beautiful eyes pa yun ha! You've got to hand it to this kid, he really knows how to put those puppy dog eyes to use. I gave Enzo a chubby chunk of brownie and he scarfed it down like there's no tomorrow! Then he asked for more... and more... and more! It's such a joy baking for Enzo. Actually, it's a joy doing anything for him / with him.

Here's a photo of Lorenzo enjoying my Chocolate Fudge Brownie:

Face Value

2007-03-18T23:43:00.000-07:00

Later that afternoon, our little group of five was joined by a few more kids - children of my second cousins. I noticed that these kids were frequently bickering and they have a tendency to get physical if they don't get things their way. Seeing that the other kids were playing rough, I warned my niece “Fi, don’t play na lang with them. They’re kinda rough.” To this Sofia replied, "I know, I can see it in their face!" Ha-ha-ha, biatch!

Puppy Love

2007-03-18T23:37:00.000-07:00

It’s always such a blast hanging out with my pamangkins: Sofia (8), Darsi (6), Enzo (3) and baby Julia (1). We spent the entire afternoon playing, making silly faces, blowing kisses, and munching anything yummy. Oh and we also did some catching up on each others lovelives. Correction: their lovelives. Yup, nine and seven-year-olds do have lovelives. Tinalo pa ako!

Lovelife No. 1: I was teasing Sofia about Marlon, her mestizo neighbor at their beach house in Anilao. She gets all defensive, and denies to death! Fi tells me how much she hates the boy-next-door, and that she doesn't find him cute at all. But the blush creeping up her cheeks tells me otherwise. "The more you hate, the more you love". Yan and drama ni Sofia!

Big Babies

Lovelife No.2: Darsi's so cute. He thinks he's in love with his classmate Maricris. His yaya Meldy confided "Two years na nya crush yun, simula kinder. Pag magkatabi sila, ay nasa langit na yang si Darsi!" Then big sister Sofia chimes in "He even told our dad 'Poppa, I want a wedding', but I told him to cut it out because he's still very young. He can just love her again when they are already in highschool." Darsi's barely out of diapers and already he's talking about wanting to marry. How adorable is that?

Lovelife No. 3: Well I don't know if you can actually call it "lovelife". To me, its more of a case of being maniac! While playing with Enzo, he grabs my boobs then shouts "Mine!" Then he lets out a naughty grin. His yaya Tata tells me that he does that to just about every girl that he comes across. Tata then proceeds to tell me more "boy bastos" moments of Enzo. Honestly, I found her stories of Enzo's pamboboso really really amusing. Heck, the boy is three years old, he can get away with it!

Little Einstein

2007-03-06T01:36:00.000-08:00

Luis: Teacher Becky I know na how to spell the name of our car!
Me: Really??? Well let me hear it...
Luis: B - M - W
Me: My my! I think you're all set to win the Nationwide Spelling Bee!

Hearing Luis spell out the proper noun "BMW"... oh my... this has got to be the proudest moment in my entire teaching career *sniff sniff* Aren't my students the bestest among the restest spelling-ers or what?! Well what can I say, I taught them well.

Life Lessons Fresh from the Oven

2007-02-28T05:55:00.000-08:00

Sunday. I woke up at five-something in the morning to make cupcakes for breakfast. I made the buttercream icing the night before. I was so psyched because I had a new recipe that looks promising. Reading the recipe, that's all it took to make my mouth water, it must be good then. There’s one bit of a problem though, it uses self-rising flour. I checked the pantry but no flour of that kind was available. I frequent Unimart for my baking supplies, but they didn’t have self-rising flour there either. So I decided to just go ahead and use all-purpose flour thinking it would have the same effect. Flour is flour is flour. What difference will it make? How wrong I was! Needless to say, my cupcakes turned out unsuccessfully. To say its disastrous is putting it mildly.

Time for the dreaded taste test: My dad, the ever sweet one, said that it’s not that bad. “It’s good, really. No kidding.” Nice try dad! But I’m still not buying that! I was like, “No daddy, its not. It’s not ok. Not even half-decent tasting as I hoped it would be.” Then he goes, “Maybe it’s the flour, or the sugar that you used perhaps? It’s probably old stock.” Sure, blame the flour, blame the sugar, blame everything else, just not me! See now how my father adores me? In his eyes, I, Marie Victoria Rebecca, am faultless! Charing! Then daddy adds: “You know what, I think you’ve become a perfectionist. These are good enough already, but you still want better, the best! You really are a perfectionist!” In my mind I was thinking “Yeah, yeah dad… So maybe I am a perfectionist, and what are you? A “hallucinator”?! Because trust me, there is absolutely NOTHING good about those cupcakes!” I really don’t know where that goodness my dad is talking about is coming from. He must really love me that much! Haha! :-)

Mom’s response was, well, a little less enthusiastic. “I’m sure that thing is loaded with butter! Sugar! Cream! I’m not trying the icing, too fattening! Scrape it all off!” Gee, thanks for the support mom! This kind of behavior is so typical of her. And she always does that - not just with my cooking - but with almost every aspect of my life. Mother dear can be the meanest, most vulgar and negative person ever… But I love her just the same! Can’t live without my mommy. I love love looove her to bits, craziness included.

My siblings, who are usually big fans of my cooking + baking, snubbed my cupcakes. All three of them shared one measly piece, and was not even able to finish it! My brother said it tasted like garbage. Does he even know what trash tastes like? Hello!

I made a total of 30 plus cupcakes! How am I supposed to dispose all that? I’m not a big believer of wasting food, so there’s no way that I’m gonna throw it all in the trash bin. And besides, it’s not that bad. It just so happened that my sibs have developed such refined food palettes. I guess they got so used to my wonderful cooking; hence, they no longer want to touch so-so food. Everything they eat has to be superb. I spoiled their taste buds a tad too much! Ha! Instead of forcing spoiled younger siblings to consume it, I just decided to give if away to people who might actually appreciate it. I offered them to our house girls, yayas, drivers. But there’s still a lot more left. So I brought about a dozen to church. I distributed it among the Santuario San Jose servers: the lectors, commentators, my fellow collectors, the altar boys, and even the priest. I would have given the rest of the choir members too, only, I don’t really know them. So really, good for them! They were spared from the deadly cupcakes! Except for three choir members. You see, I kinda knew those three. Kino’s a friend of my brother so I gave him one, and I handed his mom and dad a piece each too. Kino was such a sweetheart. He finished his cupcake with much gusto and even asked for a second helping! I turned on my drama queen mode and using my most wawa voice, I told my brother “ Buti pa your friend, he appreciates my baking, samantalang kayo… ” To this dear bother replied “But that doesn’t mean anything. Kino eats everything! Last week he saw a snail in the playground, he picked it up and licked it, and he said it was good!” Fine, so now brother dear is comparing my cupcakes to snails. Great, just great!

After passing the cupcakes around, there are a few more pieces left. I placed them in an airtight container and brought it to preschool the following day. I warned the faculty members that it’s no good so it’s ok if they didn’t finish it, I’d understand. Then teacher Randy asked if it’s ok if he brings some home so he can share it... to his kaaway! Teacher Raaandyyy!!!

***

It’s been said time and again that we should learn from our mistakes. And since I consider my last batch of cupcakes as a “mistake” here are the lessons that I learned:

a. Follow thy instructions!!! Don’t be pasaway! My cupcakes became a disaster for the simple reason that I didn’t comply with the tried and tested recipe, which brings me to my next point…
b. You can’t always rely on substitutes. Some things are meant to have no substitutes. Hmm… Like Destiny. And The One. There’s no such thing as Mr. Right For Now. Or even if there is, he's not bound to make you completely satisfied. Only Mr. Right can and will. Haha! I-connect daw ba sa ingredients!
c. Sometimes, things don’t come out the way you want it to be. Sucks big time, but its true :-(
d. There are people, like my mom, who just gets to your nerves! And yet, you will still love them. Not because you don’t have any choice. But because, the truth is, you really wouldn’t want to have them any another way. You love them just as they are.
e. When I have kids, I’m going to be Bad Cop Mom. Never mind if my kids will hate me for it, they'll grow out of it eventually anyway. The last thing I want is to raise a brat. Bratinellas are such a pain in the ass! I should know... It takes one to know one? ;-p
f. I should marry a guy who is just like my dad: Someone who will love me no matter what ~~icky thing I feed him~~

(Chinese) New Year, New Dear?

2007-02-16T16:44:00.000-08:00

To welcome the year of the pig with a bang, we came to school dressed in cheongsam. So the kids looked like Anime characters, my co-teachers parang Mano Po cast, habang ako naman ay nag mukhang waitress sa Gloria Maris. *May I take your order ma'am!* Even though I looked silly and all, it was kinda worth it. I must admit, wearing Chinese-inspired clothing was such a brilliant idea -- it did help a lot in setting the kung hei fat choi mood. But our Chinese New Year party didn't stop at us wearing costumes. The students who takes Mandarin lessons with teacher Tippi, serenaded the rest of us with a couple of Chinese songs. I enjoyed the song and dance number very much, kahit na hindi ko lubusang maunawaan ang mga pingasasasabi nila! "Ni xia jiu tian bei hua fen leng zui..." Huwaaaht?!? Anobeh, alam mo namang F4 songs at pong chuwaila
chiri ri kong koila ah butse kik ek ek ek lang ang alam ko na Chinese lyrics, by heart at that! Hah, jologs! Asa ka pa na may alam akong iba, eh hello, I'm 100% Filipino kaya! Surprise, surprise! I know this might come as a shocker cause my features are so Oriental. I'm even more Chinese-looking than most Chinoys I know! But I kid you not when I say that I am NOT Chinese, not even half! I'm singkit and maputi that's why most everyone find it extremely hard to believe, they just can't get over the fact. Pinagpipilitan talaga nila na instik ako! C'mon you guys, do not force the issue! Haha! So anyways, after the little presentation, everyone feasted on siopao, siomai, lumpia shanghai, pancit and buchi *Burp* After our cheap but yummy lauriat-lauriatan, the teachers handed each student red envelopes. Nothing like good ol' angpao to make little children squeal with delight! At shempre, makukumpleto ba ang munting celebrasyon namin kung walang dragon dance?! Teacher Randy and Artist Melvin were the "human power" behind the dragon dance. It was so funny watching the two, ginawa nilang parang lasing yung dragon! May pa hurkey-hurkey pang nalalaman, laugh trip talaga ung mga ungas na yon!

Cheongsam, check. Siopao and siomai, check. Angpao, check. So there, I think we had all the elements that make up for a lucky Chinese new year. Aba naman, talagang kinareer to the next level ito! Kaya wish ko lang maging maswerte ako at nang matapos na ang walang hanganang kasawian ng puso ko! Yun yon eh! Haha! ;-p

P.S. If I'm not mistaken, this is the first-ever post wherein I threw in a bunch of Tagalog words. I guess, that's just me, wanting to prove that I'm authentically Pinay. Bona fide, bay-beh! :)

Daddy Dearest Puts The 'Happy' In Valentine's Day :-)

2007-02-14T23:21:00.000-08:00

Because We Are Living In A Material World...

2007-02-14T22:58:00.000-08:00

Isn’t Valentine’s Day great or what? Today, I received the most dazzling V-day gift by far. It’s a BCBG Max Azria little black dress. Oh I can’t even begin to describe how beautiful it truly is! The cut is flattering; it clings to my body perfectly and hangs well. The fabric is uber luxurious, and the details: exquisite. Now from whom did it come from, you might ask. The present came from no other than.. me! Yup, you read that right. I’m pathetic enough to do something like that. Consider it as my little consolation prize to myself. Seriously, did you think that some guy gave it? C'mon, no straight-as-an arrow chap is capable of picking out a present that will draw oohs and aahs from an all-woman crowd. Men are not grand at gift-giving; they are just not wired that way. So if your boytoy happens to get you anything fabulouso, darling be afraid. Be very afraid. I hate to break it you, but your papa is a mama.

At campus today: I look around and see a parade of bears that come in all shapes and sizes. Gifts from the boyfriend, geez how dreamy. Hmpf, who needs another stuffed toy anyway? Aren't we too old for that? And besides, stuffed-animals are just there to gather dusts, thus making its owner more prone to asthma attacks. Meanwhile, inside the classroom my blockmates were busy showing off their presents. Under normal circumstances, I would have turned green with envy. This time however, I didn't feel even just the slightest tinge of jealousy. I have my gorgeous cocktail dress, the hell with their mushy un-cute bears!

Valentine after valentine, I buy me my own present. And year after year, I convince myself that the gifts I get for me are more precious than that of what my friends’ boyfriends give to them. But who am I kidding? True, my gifts comes with a much impressive price tag. They are even chic-er, yes. But more precious? Nah, I don’t think so. I am willing to trade all of my designer stuff for one cheap, baduy, nakaka-asthma teddy bear. As long as it’s given by someone who loves me, I will gladly trade anything, anytime.

Wait, did I just say that?! Well I suppose that was really me… being completely honest with myself. Contrary to other's opinion of me, I don’t need big fat wallets to make me happy. It's the simple things in life that makes me genuinely happy.

***

Tonight, my in-a-relationship friends will go to bed with a new cuddly bear to hug. Tonight, they will sleep with a big smile on their face. And I won’t experience any of that :-( So instead I'm going to take a long warm bubble bath, smolder on lavish amounts of fragrant body cream, and I will wear my silkiest Natori lingerie. Tell me, who's gonna have a better goodnight’s sleep now! I think… not them! Hah! ;-p

There you go, I think I just got my old material girl self back! Now that's more like it!

Blacked Out

2007-02-14T22:47:00.000-08:00

Black is the new red, people! Well at least for me. I was decked in black from head to toe. From my blouse down to my purse. Black isn't exactly a cheery shade, in fact, it is often seen as the 'color' of the devil. But I'm not evil, just single.

Today, Valentine's Day, I went all-black. Almost all-black. Here's a confession: I wore rosy pink undies, with cute little heart prints to boot! Guess I haven't completely given up on Hearts Day. Although, I am but a few bad boys away from doing so.

But as of this day, I can say that I'm still a silly hopeless romantic, underneath it all.

Valentine's Gay

2007-02-12T21:06:00.000-08:00

Me: Class, you know a very special day is coming up. Can you guess what special day teacher is talking about?
Kids: It's Arthur's (our class teddy) birthday!
Me: Nope, we already celebrated his birthday remember? I'm talking about Valentine's day.
Kids: Oohhh...
Me: Ok, so let's get you guys ready for the big day shall we? First, we need to look for partners. Brandon, you pick first.
Brandon: I like Aizella.
Me: Aizella, did you want to choose Brandon too?
Aizella: *nods her head*
Me: Good. Brandon, Aizella will be your partner then. How about you Neiman, who's your valentine?
Neiman: Brandon.
Kids: But he's a boooyyy... and you're a boy too!

Class, that's what you call: Bading. And there you have it, our word of the day.

My Point, Exactly.

2007-02-12T19:38:00.000-08:00

Got this fine piece of writing from someone else's blog. It's one of those articles that makes me think to myself "damn, wish I wrote that!" I hope you guys enjoy reading this, as much as I did.

"Ilang araw na lang at Valentine's Day na naman. I used to dread February 14. Not because i'm single....Ok! It's because i'm single!!

Eh anak ng tinapa! Papaano ka naman matutuwa sa isang celebrated holiday na ang silbi ay ipamukha sa'yo na "Malas mo wala kang jowa! Belat! With matching wave ng roses at subo ng chocolates! Putcha, kala mo naman Ferrero Rocher eh Goya lang naman! 'Yung milky variant pa, wala man lang raisins! Hmph!! Tumaba ka sana! At ang roses, asus! Kala mo kung saan pinitas, eh galeng Dang-Wa lang naman! At may pa dinner-dinner pa na nalalaman. Joskoh, care ko naman sa fine-dining! Eh Rufo's lang, masaya na ako! And besides, di naman ako mahilig kumain. Inuman na lang tayo.

Kaya naman on that day, talagang nagiging toxic ako. At pag may nakikita akong taong naka pula, nandidilim ang paningin ko. Bitter Ocampo ako, inaamin ko.

My point is, wala akong point. Di ko lang talaga makita ang importance ng holiday na ito. Parang mas maganda pang mag tayo ng holidays like Feed The Children Day, Or National Tarsiers' Day --'yung tunay ha, at di 'yung tambay ng Cafe Havana sa Greenbelt 3, or better yet Single's Parade of Colors day. But kung ako ang masusunod V-Day should be Vilma Santos Day. Di ba mas masaya? "

Now that is literature at its finest. Its outstanding writer should be awarded with this year's Nobel Prize. That's what I think.

From Cupcakes to Soulmates

2007-02-07T11:43:00.000-08:00

I might as well be the next Martha Stewart (minus jail time, naturally) You see, these past few days, for some reason, all I ever want to do is bake, bake and bake – cupcakes in particular. And it’s getting really out of hand! Don't you just find it weird that I would be up till around three in the morning searching for promising-looking recipes? Talk about bakeaholic! At the rate I'm going, I might have to check into rehab anytime soon. While at rehab, in between sessions with my shrink, I will find ways to bump into Lindsay Lohan (since she checked in too). I'm soo gonna make L. Lo my new BFF (best friend forever) Woohoo! Ok, so much for the daydreaming, earth to BakerBecky now! So anyway, this is basically what keeps me up at ungodly hours: I try to get hold of maybe a couple of the same flavor cupcake recipe (but with different ingredients and baking techniques) then figure out a way to incorporate them all into one to-die-for cuppiecake. But last night, I came across this non-cupcake recipe. It appealed to me anyways, after all, it had the prettiest shade of pink -- so perfect for valentines. Not that I had a Valentino to give it to, just so we're clear. It’s called Pillowy Meringue Hearts (thanks marthastewart.com). I gave it a quick scan and decided that it’s going to be relatively easy to make, since I am an all-knowing, ever-great kitchen pro. Okay, you can go ahead and pelt rotten tomatoes my way now! Make that tomate cerise puh-leez. Hah! ;-p

Moving on with my bragging, can I just tell you that my vanilla cupcake rivals that of Sonja’s and Magnolia Bakery's. No kidding. (Hey, everyone is entitled to their own opinion!) I call it McDreamy cupcake, simply because it’s as creamy as can be – and dreamy to taste. Well that and the fact that I just can't stop saying "McDreamy". McDreamy. McDreamy. McDreamy. There, I just did it again! Gosh, I'm too in love with McDreamy *blush* I can too, proudly say that I discovered how to bake melt-in-your-mouth flourless chocolate cupcakes. The first batch that I made turned out alright, but still has room for improvement. Tsk, tsk, not as delish as I thought it would be. But that’s okay, because my other cupcake, oh don’t get me started with the white cupcake with strawberry buttercream… Simply irresistible! This I know so, and I was told so. Right, I think you guys have had enough bragging for today so BakerBecky will just ~~sadly~~ cut it out with the tooting of her own horn.

See? I told you I bake a lot. And I don’t mind baking myself to exhaustion at all… if there is someone to appreciate the finish product, but more importantly, the effort and love that I put into each and every cupcake. Don't get me wrong, I’m not saying that all the stuff I make comes out divine. Sometimes its perfection, sometimes “palpak-tion”, but always made with love. That's why every time I whip up a batch of cupcakes, I can’t help but wish that there is someone special that I can share it with… for as long as we both shall live.

***

I tried the Pillowy Meringue Hearts on-line recipe this morning, and the result was fantastic! Of course, I tweaked the recipe a little bit, to give it that extra mmm factor. And since I’m going to be dateless when Feb. 14 rolls around (gee, what’s new?) I will just keep myself busy making cute little heart-shaped meringues. Hopefully, before I reach a gazillion dozen, Vday is finally over.

***

To cute guys reading this: Want a box (or two if you're a totally cutie) of yummy Pillowy Meringue Hearts this Valentines Day? Then date me! Date me!!!

Bribing. Now that’s how ~~pathetic peeps like me~~ you do it!

Not Again!

2007-01-24T04:44:00.000-08:00

There's this guy. Uh-oh, right? Like that's the last thing I need in my life right now. But he's not like any other ~~pompous~~ guy I know. He's just.. different. In a good way of course. And I like him. I like him a lot that I find it so hard to breathe whenever he throws glances at me. I like him so much that when I look at him, my knees suddenly becomes the consistency of Jell-O. Yeah... I like him, in this really big, i-like-you-love-you way.

Take note: I like him for all the right reasons. Not because he is guapo, rich, tall. It's not like that. At all. Well of course those things are like you know, bonus. But really, take it all out, and I'd still be crazy about him. Cause he is a decent guy, with a big big... heart :)

Now here's the catch. (Talagang there always has to be a "catch" eh noh? Darn it!) He is a decade-plus my senior. The quintessential older guy. So shoot me! Haha! Anyways, I just got off the phone with this guy friend (?) of mine. We were just talking talking, doing some catching up on each others going-ons and then out of the blue he confessed that he used to have a crush on me. But then decided that I'm probably too young for him.

So now the question is, will my crush also think I am way too young for him? But I can be old! I can be old for him! Actually, I can be anything he wants me to be! Teehee! Why do I get this feeling that he must be thinking the same way too - that I'm too young for him. I noticed, when my crush saw me in my school uniform, after that, parang he started to act differently around me. Sure, we're friendlier now, but he just stopped looking at me THAT way. You know what I'm saying? He would smile my way, yes. But the STARE is gone... God, I miss the stare. The stare was good. It never failed to send shivers up and down my spine. That's how good it was. Believe me, I have been stared at many times over (feeling ba? but its true-la-loo! hehe) But his is the only one that has this kind of effect on me. He gives the term "makuha ka sa tingin" a whole new meaning. One stare, that's all it took for him to "get me". Naks, how baduy! Haayyy, the things you become when you're in love...

Major ka-baduyan here I come.

La la la Love

2007-01-17T22:39:00.000-08:00

What is it with me and love these days? My last journal entry was all about love, and now I am to write about it again. Maybe I was bitten by the love bug. Or perhaps it’s because hearts day is just around the bend. Of course, it doesn’t help that my kindergarten students just can't stop talking about it:

Stella: You know teacher, before I was in love with Miguel.
Me: Oh, you mean, he used to be your crush.
Stella: No teacher Becky, in love. Miguel was my love. He makes me happy.

***

Kids! They use the word "love" too loosely. Or maybe, love should really be that way -- loads of fun, and uncomplicated. Actually, that was the kind of love that I knew not so long ago. The kind wherein you love with every fiber of your being; and you don't have all these guards up. But eventually, you grow up, and suddenly that's hardly the case anymore. You become aware of the fact that if you put your heart on the line, there's a great chance that it might get trampled on. We all know how a trampled upon heart feels. It sure hurts like slow death by Japanese water torture with a gazillion acupuncture needles piercing your chest for weeks on end. And so love looses its luster; it's not as attractive as it was when you were, say, sixteen. Now it is all about loving only if it is (or until it is) safe and convenient. I love you because I know I will have a promising future with you. I love you because you are good looking, because you are smart, because you are witty. Whatever happened to "I love you just because..."?

waiting for prince charming...

I can't remember the last time I fell in love. Or should I say, the last time I allowed myself to really fall in love. When did I stop loving the way a child would? Perhaps the same day I realized Prince Charming existed only in fairytales. It's so much fun being a kid, definitely has its perks! You can love with all your heart without the fear that some jerk might just end up breaking it. Jerks, there's many of them! No wonder there are days when this whole love chuvaness scares the living daylights out of me. These days, love for me, has been reduced to something that is intimidating; a dangerous ground to tread on. It has become a scary thing – like monsters, bungee jumping, and calories.

But you know what, at the end of the day, I still want to be able to truly believe in happily ever after again. So I'll give this darn fairytale thingy another shot. Hmm, maybe it's not a bad idea to ask my 4-year-old students to teach me a thing or two about love. I'm pretty sure they wouldn't mind. After all, I've been nothing short of wonderful in teaching them their ABC's and 123's. Let's just say that it's payback time. Hah! Oh, and if I'm lucky, I might just get that lovin' feeling back. And when that days comes, I’d be the happiest girl this side of the planet... Simply because nothing beats feeling like you're sweet sixteen all over again.

Love, defined.

2007-01-10T01:55:00.000-08:00

This morning at the preschool, I gathered my kids around so I can read them a story. Everything was running smoothly (read: no one is acting up). So ya, everyone is paying attention, except one. *Brad, that little rascal, didn't seem like he was listening to me, but at least he wasn’t disturbing his classmates this time. Hello, I was reading a pop-up book, so that should be interesting. But it looks like *Brad was interested in something else. Or should I say, in someone else.

I caught him looking -- no, staring would be a more appropriate word -- at his classmate *Angelina. And while he was at it, I can't help but notice the twinkle in his eyes. *Brad was gazing lovingly at *Angelina! I know, I know they are kids, and I shouldn't be putting malice on the way he looks at his classmate. But boy, you should have seen it for yourself, and then you tell me if there's nothing more to it. I could tell, it really was something. Soon after the eye-contact chuva, Brad inched his little hand towards hers, and they held hands for a good five minutes! As soon as both their fingers were released from the "holding hands" that just took place, *Brad gently touched *Angelina's face then cupped it with both his hands. Then they smiled at each other. A little later, little boy reached for little girl's face and he rested her head on his shoulders. I am not kidding! The events are soo true, it’s not even funny! It's like it's straight out of a chinovela! *Brad was about to mutter something to *Angelina, but then he became conscious of me “spying" them. So he just proceeded to whisper something to her ear. Then again, they looked at each other and smiled. Being the chismosa person that I am, I just had to know what he just told her. So in the middle of our storytelling session, I put down the book, asked the other kids to just play quietly for a few minutes while I talk to two of their classmates. I hurried off to approach the “Brangelina couple".

Me: Hey, I heard what you whispered to her (even if I didn't, it was just my "fishing" tactic. Clever huh?)
Brad: You did? But i said it softly...
Me: Well I have bionic ears. So why did you tell *Angelina that?
Brad: That I love her?
Me: Ooohh... so that's what you said! You told *Angelina "I love you"
Brad: I thought you said you heard me.
Me: (defensive mode) I did! I just wanted to repeat the words. Well, anyways, change topic! So why nga did you tell her that.
Brad: Because she is my crush!
Me: You know, just because someone is your crush doesn't mean that you automatically love that person. Sometimes crush just means "admiring". So don't just go telling people "I love you" when you don't mean it. You will hurt people that way.. (that's the bitterness in me talking, ha!)
Brad: But I do mean it. I love Angelina.
Me: You're not even five years old yet, what do you know about love! Do you even know what love means, huh *Brad?
Brad: Yes. And love means "Angelina".

Whoa, such big words for a tiny kid noh? But I can't say I wasn't floored upon hearing that. Actually, the words took my breath away. Now if only someone can love me the way *Brad loves his *Angelina, the way Brad Pitt loves his Angelina Jolie, then my life would be thiscloseto being perfect.

*The names of the kiddos has been changed, duh like you still haven't noticed! But I swear their real names sounds a lot like Brad and Angelina.

Go Ahead, Open Your Heart

2006-12-20T02:13:00.000-08:00

You know you want to.

This Christmas, let us unwrap our hearts as we do our holiday gifts. Something good is bound to come out of it. Chances are you would magically transform into this extra-nice version of yourself. Now isn't that what you have always wished for? You'll be surprised what an open heart can do. Not to mention, how good it feels.

Happy Holidays everyone! Hope you guys have a blessed and meaningful one! =)

Accurate but...

2006-12-07T01:31:00.000-08:00

Cuddles? Seriously? I mean, that's not even considered seductive! Lap/pole dancing, yes. Pouty lips, yes. La Perla lingerie, yes! Cuddling, NO. It's too pa-tweetums to be stimulating. If there was a list of the surest ways to seduce, cuddling will be way down there at the bottom.

But like I said, the result is very accurate. Pathetic but true... I'm not all that seductive. How sad, now I feel bad... I need a hug. Or should I say, a cuddle?

This REALLY Made My Day

2006-11-14T20:37:00.000-08:00

reading recital class pic

Well there was this new teacher in the pre-school. She graduated from The Ateneo, and she took up Education. So really, she’s got the edge. And I don't =( As a result, I carried around feelings of inferiority the whole week cause I was afraid the kids would like her more than they like me. Because she’s the one who knows the techniques, has the teaching skill, you know that sort of stuff.

So anyway, in class this morning, while we were learning letter K, all of a sudden:

Kieran: I don’t like her! (refering to the new teacher)
Nico: Because she’s ugly?
All: YEAH!!!

Bwahahaha, riot talaga the kids! AND the new teacher was there! So she heard all that! Sure, I felt bad for her... But then again, I swear, deep inside I was giggling hysterically cause at least now I’ve confirmed that they like me a whole lot more! Maybe because I'm pretty?! NOT! ;-p

I make fun of wawa people. So shoot me!

BOO!

2006-11-01T17:19:00.000-08:00

Today Is A Sad Day

2006-10-20T20:45:00.000-07:00

"You know, the first time I saw you, I though you were smart", I was told some months back by this guy was dating. I didn't get offended, seriously. I'm well aware if that fact already. However, most everyone thinks im smart because I dress like a smart person. You'll often see me in oxford shirts, khaki capris, with matching pearls. Sometimes, to further intensify the "smarty look" I go as far as wearing eyeglasses (eyen if both my eyes still properly functions). But the truth is, im not smart, at all. Just intelligent. And bright. And clever. Yeah, that’s me. Hehehe! Kidding aside, I’m telling you, you’d be just be fooling yourself if you continue to think of me as someone intelligent. I am sooo not! And that’s probably the reason why the kids like me a lot. Cause we have the same wavelength, same I.Q. But on second though, they probably have higher I.Q’s.

Case in point: today I got into this debate with my student. I showed him a round object and asked if it was a circle. Audric said “NO!”. I told him that it was. Then he was like “but it’s a CYLINDER!”. Right. How sad, my four year old student is way smarter than me =(

I Looove Being a Teacher (For the Wrong Reasons)

2006-09-06T11:15:00.000-07:00

A typical classrom conversation goes something like this:

Audric: No fair! You share!
Teacher: Kieran, please share your toys with Audric
Audric: (grabs toy from Kieran)
Kieran: P*ta!
Teacher: Aaah... ay, stop using silly words.
Teacher: You know you're not suppose to say that.
Kieran: But my mommy says that too
Teacher: So you heard that from her?
Kieran: Also from my daddy, and lolo, and lola
Teacher: Ok, but its not nice to say words like that, so you shoudn't
Kieran: But my WHOLE family say bad words! P*ta!

Miguel: Teacher Becky, I farted
Teacher: That's ok, we all fart
Miguel: But that's my power! Now its gone! *pouts*
Teacher: Oohhh.. I see... umm... well...
Audric: Teacher I have lots of power in my pwet

Whatta hirit! Mean, sarcastic, yucky comments... but who cares! Da best talaga the kids! How can you not fall in love with 'em?! =)

A Different Kind Of Love

2006-02-14T22:37:00.000-08:00

My family is not exactly poor. I had my first designer footwear when I was in third grade and my very first haute couture gown at the age of 12. We take a trip abroad on a regular basis and we also happen to live in a village that is quite posh. Yet and still, my father is cooking up a plan of doing business in Dubai.

The pending Dubai venture was discussed over customary Sunday lunch at my mother’s ancestral home. One aunt asked my father if it was necessary for him to put up operations in a foreign land too. To this daddy jokingly replied: “I guess, so my wife won’t ever have to line up for Wowowee.”

Deeply disturbing questions soon flooded my mind. Is the economy in such bad shape my family might have to eventually leave the Philippines? Are the times so hard that it drove twenty thousand people to camp out Ultra and brave the perils?

I never really got the answers I was looking for. All I know is that most Filipinos have lost hope in the government and thus they rely on game shows and leaving the country to alleviate poverty. The stampede is heartbreaking reflection of the real state of the nation. Most people see it as a proof that we’ve gone to an all time low.

Call me crazy, but in spite of (not apart from) the Ultra stampede, the *56pesos to a $1, the EDSA series, and Erap, I still love the Philippines. After all, it is the land of Ate Shawie, SMB (I don’t drink though), and of course DiVi 168. I wouldn’t have the MY country any other way.

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

Speed Dating

2006-01-15T23:55:00.000-08:00

For a girl like me who’s been single since birth and has a Cinderella curfew (12 midnight), the idea of joining Speed Dating is quite liberating. But with a shaky hand and a thumping heart I reluctantly filled out the info sheet that would officially make me a speed dater. Little did I know that I just signed myself up for the most thrilling night of my life!

Now this is how I see speed dating: It is all fun and games and best of all, it lacks all complexities of a real date date. You see, whenever we go out on dates, we end up awake all night tossing and turning as we review the dialogue we had with our respective dates. Then we torment ourselves about what we should have (or should have not) said, what shade of lipstick we should have applied instead. The same thing cannot be said for speed dating. With speed dating, you can screw up, be a complete mess, make a fool out of yourself, and it totally won’t matter because at the back of your mind you know very well that there’s no foreseeable future for you and the speed daters. Because it’s nothing more than just a one night thing (no pun intended).

Of course, each person has a different take on Speed dating. The player-type think it’s an unfussy way to meet “activity partners”, if you know what I mean. Hopeless romantics imagine it to be a haven where they can finally meet “The One”. My best friend’s conyotic brother Ryan believes it to be the most “baduy” way to hook-up. Personally, I suppose speed dating is an exciting activity to try, but not something I see myself doing on a regular basis.

If you are looking for a fun-filled night, then speed dating is too perfect for you. But if you are searching for true love, then you might want to consider some place else, lest you might go home with an achy breaky heart.

* * *
Single people of the world, I am talking to you… So listen up, and listen good: Hearts day is just around the bend. Sure, we may be loveless. But heck, with speed dating existing, nobody said we have to be dateless on Valentine’s Day! So from now on, where do broken hearts go? They head off the nearest speed dating place, naturally!

Oh, and just so we’re clear: I only joined speed dating so I can write a feature about it (for the AC Times V-day issue). You see, I do take my job seriously. Haha, now I’m being defensive!

P.S. Thanks to my fab layout editor Ysa, the above graphic is really great! I dunno though if its because of your magical photoshop powers, or just the fact that, anything that has Brad Pitt in it, automatically looks great! Haha, kidding. Of course its you. You talented you!

Some Kinda Slang: Gay Leng Gang

2005-12-29T00:47:00.000-08:00

Sofia came home from school one day and started making me kwento about her fun-packed day. According to her, she did a lot of running, jumping, talking, singing and playing! Whew! Listening to her story was enough to make me tired. I assumed all the stuff she did left her hungry so I tempted Sofie with the chocolates (shaped like hearts) I made earlier that day. No kid ever says “no” to choco, especially the fancy shaped ones. So you can just imagine my surprise when she turned down my offering. Interested to know why i got "no" for an answer, I engaged the kiddo in a little chat.

BeckyBoop: I prepared the chocolates myself and guess what? I made it extra chocolately! Sure you don't want any?

(I took one big bite from my piece and made the "Mmm..." SFX.)

Sofia: Thanks, but no thanks. Teacher gave us something to eat, so my tummy is full already - it’s not sexy! (pouts) And besides, the last thing I want is to get bulok teeth.

BeckyBoop: Right, right. So, what did you have for lunch? Something yummy or something yucky?

Sofia: Umm, both! There's rice and gay-leng-gang and some cookies and i don't know what but it's color green.

BeckyBoop: Gay-leng-gang?

Sofia: Yup yup sexy momma! It tastes funny, but kinda yummy too.

(Confused, I looked at her yaya Meldy)

Yaya Meldy: Galunggong ba, yung isda.

BeckyBoop: Aaahh… Oo nga naman.

Galunggong and Poveda kids just don’t mesh well, noh?
Oh, and tusok-tusok the fishball, move over!

Rock My World

2005-12-27T03:23:00.000-08:00

Like bees to honey: that’s rockstars and girls. This doesn’t apply to me.

I’ve always preferred the boy-next-door type, guys you can bring home to mom. Sure, they can be plain and boring but they too are decent, reliable, most importantly: monogamous. So you see, the good outweighs the bad. The good boy, in the end is so much more fun to be with.

There’s this boy I met in preschool. He was devoted (followed me like a puppy). He was generous (always sharing snack packs). He was peace-loving (never involved in sandbox scandals). And to this day, all my memories of him are tinged with a pink and purple glow… Because he is a good boy.

we're going on a honeymoon ;p

I never really had a thing for rockstars -- partly because i believe they are more trouble than they're worth, and mostly because everything about them screamed untidy. I can take the sex, drugs and rock n’ roll part... But long, unkempt hair is just too much. It’s unacceptable, even for a non- O.C.

MiG Ayesa is a rockstar. But when he sang “Baby I Love Your Way”, I fell in love.

I'm screwed.

Playing Food Critic

2005-12-27T00:12:00.000-08:00

She served me the most excellent meal I ever had, how can I not remember her.

Suzette Montinola was sitting beside MiG Ayesa when I recognized her. She once toured me inside her ancestral home that was turned into a place perfect for intimate gatherings. The tour showcased walls adorned by Luna’s and Hidalgo’s. There were also displays of antique paraphernalia. Back then, I had no idea she was the cousin of my crushie MiG. Soon as i realized that MiG's cousin and the girl who gave the tour is in fact just one person, i told her that i really enjoyed her cooking. And MiG was like "Oh so you're a fan of her, let me take a picture of you two." What a darling that Miggy.

MiG took this photo of me with my cousins-in-law. I wish!

Enough already about MiG, let's get down to business and talk about the food. Go! The Paella Valencia was divine; it reminded me of the paella I had the last time I went to Spain. Yes, it is that authentic-tasting. The lengua cooked in white wine is by far the best I’ve ever tasted. Well next to my mommy’s version, of course. For dessert I had bread pudding that I found simply irresistible. I’m really not thin enough to have three helpings, but I did. And I’m not talking about cute servings. It’s more of the “patay gutom” kind of portion. At this point, my mom was already pondering wether to disown me or put me up for adoption. I can almost hear her say: “Where did all the manners that I taught you go?!” Mom can really be such a Bree Van de Kamp sometimes.

Excellence didn’t stop in the kitchen. Our dining table was set equally wonderful. Murano birds were used as a centerpiece and dishes were served in antique china and silverware making it the ultimate in dining experience. The staff also thoughtful placed a bell at the heads of the table encouraging us to ring should we wish to ask for anything.

La Cocina de Tita Moning has an Old World quality about it. I could imagine the place as something that belongs to the 18th century, where refinement and good taste were the norm. But I’m glad it’s here now, to make our century more interesting and, well, charming.

Verdict: Everything I ate was as yummy if not yummier than MiG. Mmm... mmm!

Pinoy Big Brother is my guilty pleasure, please don't mock me.

2005-12-18T00:17:00.000-08:00

Housemate Cassandra was asked this question:
Bakit ikaw ang dapat tanghalin na kaunaunahang big winner?

Ang sagot ni Cass:
"Dahil ako ay nagpaka-totoo sa bahay ni kuya. Pero kung matalo man ako, okey lang dahil I'm very sports... (pauses to think) sportsmanship. I mean, sport-minded."

Umm Cass, you're "athletic"... we get that. You could have stopped at "I'm very sports" you know.

Now that Cassandra is on her way to becoming an artista (lovable biatch Uma predicted she's gonna be a sexy star... the cheapest sexy star) she might undergo some major makeover. Stylists must definitely change her wardrobe, make-up, and oh, don't forget the haircolor! I suggest blonde, suits her perfectly well.

I sooo wanted to beg PBB's Laurenti Dyogi to include me in the next batch of housemates! But I got shy... He's such a cutie pie kasi. I think i heart him na.

Crazy Antiques

2005-11-21T04:23:00.000-08:00

I have a penchant for all things antique -- old furniture, old books, old movies, old guys. You see, boys my age bore me. What interests them does not appeal to me. All they talk ever about are the following (in particular order): girls, cars, girls, PS / Xbox games, girls, basketball, and did I mention girls? I started going out with mature guys when I was like 15. And the guy was 37. Now I am 19 and he is… dead. Just kidding. Very mean joke, not even half! But I can’t help it, sorry. Me and that guy (who was nearly as old as my dad), we never really talked about our age. I was too scared he’ll freak out once he finds out that I’m a minor, and he is too shy to tell me that his age can no longer be found in a calendar. Anyways, after almost 3 months of dating, he who shall not be named eventually found out my age – and he was dumbfounded. Soon as he was able to finally collect himself all he said was “Holy cow, I could go straight to jail if I do something with you.” Huh? What’s that suppose to mean?

It’s 4 in the morning now, its way past my nappy time. But thanks to my older guys, my sleeping habit is now totally completely screwed up. I fear it’s gonna get worse than it already is that I might have to pop Stilnox soon. Most of my oldies, no all of them are insomniacs. Very contagious that insomnia! My sweet dreams are now replaced by sleepless nights. This is what I get from dating antiques. Not that I’m complaining. I have a word of advice though: If the age of the guy you are dating is your age plus 20, then forget it. If you’re thinking of seeing him, DON”T. He is bad for you. But then again, men (particularly the DOM type) can always lie about their age. You ask them old they are, you’ll get this answer: “Basta, I’m young… at heart”. Ok. Fine. W-h-a-t-e-v-e-r!

All About Hands

2005-11-12T22:27:00.000-08:00

The results of your analysis say:

You plan ahead, and are interested in beauty, design, outward appearance, and symmetry.
You are a social person who likes to talk and meet others.
You are affectionate, passionate, expressive, and future-oriented.
You are a talkative person, maybe even a busybody!
You like to be surrounded by four solid walls.

My handwriting above looks horrible, it's almost not legible! I really should get my nails done. For some reason, I write better when my nails are French-manicured.

2005-11-12T21:40:00.000-08:00

Speaking of manicures, here are some my can't-live-without nail polish shades. I like applying a coat or two of Essie hours before going to a party because: it covers any unsightly toenails which makes my feet look smaller which makes my shoes look sexier which makes my legs looks longer which makes my butt look better which means I can have another slice of cheesecake.

Au Natural

Mademoiselle. This wear-with-everything neutral is the most flattering shade, ever.
Power Lunch. Every time I have to report in front of class, I coat my nails with this. Gives me the confidence that I need.
Naked Truth. This soft sandy color is J. Lo’s favorite, and mine too! What can I say, I’m gaya gaya puto maya.

Red Hot

After Sex. The sexiest stuff for your nails!
You’re Fired. It’s like fire truck red, also reminds me of the Malteser’s wrapper. Great for but I’d rather not use this when applying for a job, just to be safe.
Bordeaux. The non-hooker kind of red. I actually feel incredibly glamorous when I paint my nails in this shade.

Pretty in Pink

Princess Pink. Has a sweet cotton candy color. Perfect for the Paris Hilton’s of the world.
Sugar Daddy. I went out on a date once and the guy I was with casually mentioned that my feet looks so yummy it’s good enough to eat.
Ballet Slipper. The sheer pink color keeps my fingers and toes look so neat and so bango!

Scent-sation

2005-11-08T02:28:00.000-08:00

If I spray this on, would I smell like:
a. a million bucks $$$
b. my grandmother's D.I. (dance instructor)
c. some D.O.M (dirty old man)
d. all of the above

Hmm, I think Paris Hilton (Eau de Parfum) is a safer choice.
I can't believe I said that.

SHALLOWeen

2005-11-03T08:56:00.000-08:00

In ancient times, people wore costumes to drive away evil spirits and to disguise themselves so that the bad spirit won’t recognize them. They also leave food outside their homes every 31st of October so that if a hungry spirit happens to pass by, they could take the food and leave the people in peace. Halloween over the years seemed to have lost its meaning. What used to be a festival where people made sacrifices to the gods has now been reduced to a day of fun and treats.

I love love looove Halloween! Because it is the only time of the year when you can get a way with not-so-typical clothing without people asking you “Why the hell are you wearing that?!”

Two years back, i decided i want to be a bunny. No, not like a fluffy, hoppy mascot. And NO, not the kind of bunny that you see in centerfolds and hangs out in Playboy mansions. I am somewhere in between those two bunnies. Go figure.

This year, I tried so hard pass as a devil, but my very angelic face would not allow me to achieve the devilish look. Even with all the black going on, I still looked every inch an angel. Given this face, the devil-look just won't work. No use trying, I better give up. Hah!

Can I just share I once saw a tirck-or-treater wearing a Mulawin costume! I have to say, seeing a kid decked in feathers is a far scarier vision than that of a child soaked in blood. And please, no more Krystala gears. One Juday is enough. When children start to dress up like the fantaserye bidas, I am suddenly convinced that television is an idiot box, and that everyone patronizing it become idiots too. Mulawin for costume? How idotic-looking can you get?

Most many find Halloween shallow. Perhaps. But it still is my favorite time of the year. Next to Valentine’s (regardless of my perpetually single status), my birthday (I love myself too much), and Christmas, of course.

Beauty Tricks and Treat

2005-10-24T01:12:00.000-07:00

Who needs a mask when you can paint your own face to look even better? So here are some make-up tricks that will surely make you look sexy, not spooky this Halloween. And the tricks comes with a list of alluring make-up treats that you would desire to fill your goodie bag with.

Wearing super heavy make-up is enough to give anyone who sees you nightmares. Don’t make people wonder if there is actually a girl underneath all that freaky make-up.

Trick: To achieve a fresh radiant look, go easy on the mascara – one swipe is as much as necessary. Also, emphasize either your cheeks or your lips, but never both together.

Treat: Nars Blush in Orgasm
Shu Uemura’s Lolishine 335

Shine through by creating a look that will give adorable-faced cherubs a run for their money. Use this trick and you will look your angelic best.

Trick: For a natural looking glow, apply sheer foundation that goes with your skin tone. Follow with a light dusting of loose powder.

Treat: MAC Studio Fix Foundation
Laura Mercier Stardust Shimmer

Boy Toy

2005-10-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

He's good at racing cars; making my little heart race, even better.
Gosh, everytime I see this Matteo Guidicelli kid, I can't help but wish I was 13 again.

NEWS FLASH:

Can Matteo and I just be next?!

It may or may not be illegal to turn into a pedophile when the child is as hotty patotty as Matteo Guidicelli. I don't know, I'm no lwayer. But if it is, I'm willing to face jail time. Nobody said May-December romance is easy.

Love As I Know It

2005-10-17T11:34:00.000-07:00

My first ever blog entry and I can't think of anything to write. So I'll just recycle an article I wrote for AC Times. How pathetic, but here goes...

By the time this article goes to print, Hearts Day is long over. But love isn’t and will never be. So it is only fitting that I write something about it. Love, after all, is one of the best things in life – Valentine or not Valentine.

Great loves come cheap. Last Christmas, my bestfriend Kristine gave me a lovely Marks and Spencer goodie bag and tucked inside was a Hallmark card. The flap of the card was adorned with a stick-figure portrait of her family – me included. Isn’t that the sweetest thing or what? Now for my wedding (at the moment phantasmagorical) Kristine promised to gift me a Louis Vuitton Vernis Pappilon. Anything LV is always nice to receive but I doubt if it could ever beat that drawing I received for Christmas ‘04. I am officially the cheapest person I know.

Love found in the puniest of details. Birthdays ago, my mommy threw me a wonderful kiddie party. There were chicken lollipops, pink poofy cotton candy and basically every food that would make any child’s mouth water. Most special was the pasta though. Instead of using the "normal" noodles, mother dear used bear-shaped pasta. This simple detail made me realize that my mother thought of me enough to know that boring old string noodles is the last thing that a 9-year old could ever want. This is love in its unadulterated form.

To love in spite of… I have super sensitive skin. Too much sun exposure leaves me with rashes. If I eat anything crustacean, my allergy starts to act up. Bummer. Well one day, hard headed me decided to put an end to my forbidden food cravings by gobbling down an order of succulent prawns. I savored each bite with much gusto even though fully aware of the consequences of eating prawns. Naturally, I developed a really bad case of allergic reactions. So bad it was that I had a hard time breathing. Harder still was to look at myself in the mirror – the rash was scary and I can’t stand it. I prefer my skin flawless not with rashes. I called my dad because I seriously thought that I was going to die and daddy came and held my hand. I guess it’s all just in the mind, but I really did feel much better just by holding my father’s hand.

There are many versions of love. There is the Hollywoodized version that involves double-digit carat engagement rings and private yacht dinners. Then of course, there’s the fairytales that’s big on all things fancy. But love, I realize, is not just about long-stemmed roses and dark chocolates. These are only the trappings of love. For me love is silly stick figure drawings, bear-shaped noodles, and yes, having leprosy-like rashes all over – with someone still willing and able to hold your disgusting creepy hand. Ultimately, it is the non-high-maintenance stuff that truly defines love.

New York State of Mind

2005-07-19T22:10:00.000-07:00

Filipinos are incredibly talented people. Antithetically, the Philippines does not promote an atmosphere that will allow a budding brilliant designer to further hone his God-given talents and skills. Moreover, the Philippine environment is not at the moment capable of distinguishing a promising young thing. I notably noticed that colonial mentality does not help in making a genius out of an able individual either. Colonial mentality causes the designers to hold back, for a career in a land like ours would be a starving one if not impossible. I daresay that this same mentality drove the Filipino creative geniuses away…

It is but a sad reality that design whiz kids had to leave just so they can actually be a somebody. Narciso Rodriguez, Josie Natori, Ito Curata and Rafe Totengco all made it big… but not here. Hollywood embraces our very own Filipino designers. Dubbed as New York’s cutest fashion designer (he would rather discuss your latest boyfriend than your latest look –Vogue) part designer, part PR persona Narciso Rodriguez dolls up a few too many chic somebodys. His love for clean lines and rich materials made him a rave among all of New York. Charmed his way through the foreign land, Hollywood personalities, models, and the jet-set crowd alike celebrate the brilliance to be found in Rodriguez’s collection. Legendary bag maker Rafe Totengco is enjoying the attention that’s now being showered upon him. Attention that is due to him. When Rafe bags were flown in to the Philippines (only this time with a letters that spelled "New York" under the name brand) shelves befall empty at the speed of Schummacher. Funny how a little "NY" stitch brought sudden miracles to the merchandize. So beautiful are lingerie mogul Josie Natori’s creations that even then-America’s Sweetheart Winona Ryder cannot resist to take her hands off (literally) Natori merchandizes. Among the other stolen items found alongside the Natori handbag were famous imported brands. Gucci and Prada to name a few. Now if this does not prove how much of a success Natori is, then I don’t know anything about success. Albeit these creatives took off the country to seek for bigger and better thing in terms of design, they remain authentic Pinoys in their heart of hearts. Evident in their pieces are a boast of touches that are uniquely Filipino.

If only we see the beauty in the designs of the House of Loewe that made Kate Moss its muse. If only we are not blinded by colonial mentality then we too can see what drove Winona Ryder to include a Natori in her loot bag of shoplifted items. If only we see what Sharon Stone see in Ito Curata’s creations then the Philippines will also enjoy the genius in him – in each and every one of them. If only…

Palate Explorations: A Food Review

2005-03-13T21:03:00.000-08:00

Summer Food

Summer is when we let a little sun shine in our lives
in order for us to bake to 24-k perfection. Summer is
also that time of the year when it is acceptable to
wear micro-mini anything; given you’ve got a
micro-mini body to match. We’re talking about size
zero here, so if you don’t have the anorexic look,
ditch the bikini baby. Just kidding. After all,
plus-size is actually hot these days, and we have MTV
VJ finalist Nicole Fonacier to thank for it. (See page
17 for the full feature)

Be a healthier, sexier version of yourself this beachy
season by ordering SBD To Go. The concept behind this
diet is far from the no-salt, no-sugar, in short
no-taste diet. Instead, it focuses on choosing good
carbohydrates and good fats, for they make you feel
fuller, longer. In-demand culinary experts whip up
meals based on the recipes in the SBD cookbook. Meals
are then placed in microwavable containers that will
be made ready for pick-up or delivery. The two-week
program’s menu varies everyday. Here’s what’s on the
menu: balsamic glazed prawns, honey-baked ham and
roasted steak. Sounds sinful huh? But they’re not,
really. One thing learned from this diet: Delicious
does not always equate to gazillion calories. That’s
thing to love about SBDs, it is the only diet where
the food is so good you won’t feel like as if you are
on a diet.
.
After two weeks on the South Beach Diet, you’ll loose
the pounds and shed inches. Your itsie-bitsie bikini
won’t have to go after all.

2005-03-13T20:08:00.000-08:00

Grad Food

Drinking a cup of green tea might do more than to just
keep you from dozing off during working late nights.
Unlike coffee, the lesser caffeine containing green
tea has the power to keep you up all night without
making you nuts.

Another interesting benefit that green tea lovers
gain: Recent research suggests that antioxidants in
green tea play a role in reducing the negative effects
of bad cholesterol. So you see, not only will it
awaken your senses but it can also do wonders for you
achy breaky heart.

If at this point you are still not convinced that
green tea is for you, then here's one more reason why
you should give up that tall, non-fat, latte: Green
Tea Frap. If heaven were a drink, it would probably
taste something like this.

Green tea can be enjoyed hot or cold (your choice) and
still provide a roster of health benefits. Some like
it hot, some like it cold. How do you want yours?

Leafing Through: A Book Review

2005-03-11T21:11:00.000-08:00

The perfect post-grad read:

You're Hired: How to Succeed in Business and
Life from the Winner of The Apprentice by Bill Rancic


With job interviews on the horizon, one question
lingers in every juniors and seniors mind: What does
it take to get the boss to say, "you’re hired"?
There’s no better way to find out than to take advice
from the Donald-hired guy himself, Bill Rancic.

This quick read is packed with real-life workplace
examples, practical advice, and how-to’s: (1) work
efficiently and effectively, (2) play the game and (3)
get ahead. It also features an in-depth look at the
strategies and tactics you can use to make the
workplace work for you.

Pay close attention to what Rancic has to say – who
knows, you might just ace an interview and get
yourself hired, too.

The Many Faces of Tessa

2005-02-10T21:18:00.000-08:00

THE PATRIOT
Even in the simple act of selecting the ensemble to be dressed in, Tessa’s sense of patriotism is evident. For galas and other evening functions, she turns to Filipino designers like Dennis Lustico and good friend Rajo Laurel for them to concoct something wonderful. Tessa is a dream clientele in every sense of the word. To begin with, her china doll-esque face and svelte figure makes tailoring such bliss for the reason that anything and everything will look fabulous on her, guaranteed. Next, she never meddles in the design process to allow the couturiers to unleash their creative juices. On one condition: “No boob exposure or anything like that," and with that she lets out a hearty giggle. This is logic behind her partiality to locally crafted couture: Her belief is that Filipinos are incredibly talented individuals and they have mastered their craft. The clothes the designers produce is never mediocre, they take pride in what they do. She swears, “I don’t think there’s anything imported in my closet. Let me see… no there is none. Just my Prada stilettos maybe, we don’t have much shoes around here.”

THE GREAT SUPPORTER
"I super support the work of our local designers.” In a way, her passion for splendid gowns assists struggling up and coming designers to be able to continue what they love doing. Minus her support, chances are these designers might go out of business. “The customers come to local designers to have their bridal gowns made to be worn on their wedding day. But how many times does one get married? Once a year?” she explodes into laughter then corrects herself, “Oh, we only get married once in a lifetime”.

THE SOCIAL WORKER
No sentence that was spoken in the interview is without the word “shopping” in it. Clearly, shopping is a major element in her life. But Tessa is quick to say that receipts amounting to huge sum of money bring about guilty feelings. So after a long day of shopping (instead of retiring to the comforts of her gorgeous home) off to Baclaran our shopper goes to confess the committed “crime”. The “crime” is shopping too much, of course. The confession to the priest is not enough so the shopping indulgence is then compensated by charity work She balances her splurges by extending aid where needed be. At present Tessa donates to Gawad Kalinga, a housing project that she has confidence in. Whatever contribution she makes, in a way, offsets her spending. It is important that there is balance in anything she does. Practicing yoga taught her that. “In yoga, you get stripped-down, no wigs, no anything extra.” Speaking of wigs, she admits that it is the one thing that she can’t live without. “Oh my God, I love wigs!”, the wig- lover stated with so much conviction. When asked exactly how many does she own, she revealed, “It’s like asking Imelda how many shoes she has.”

THE SHINNING SUN
Years back, I attended an awards night that acknowledges well-crafted advertisements.
To every event, there is a theme. The awards night was dubbed as “Araw Values Awards” so I figured the theme has got something to do with the sun. I came to the event clad in a lovely cocktail dress with the shimmery rays of the sun embroidered in it. Much to my dismay, everyone else in the party was sporting jeans and sneakers. And these sneaker-wearing creatures has their mocking eyes on me. It was as if there eyeballs wanted to say “what’s up with the dress?”. I felt so bad that I was actually so close to tears. And then I saw Tessa. She was a vision in shinny yellow -- a yellow sun. Yes, she came to the awards night guissed like the sun. Shortly after seeing Tessa, I thought to myself, “The theme of the event has something to do with the sun. My cocktail dress has rays of the sun. Tessa’s dress is a sun. Now why is everyone else so underdressed? Doesn’t anyone follow dress codes anymore?” And just like that, I felt fabulous already.

The name Tessa Prieto-Valdez evokes many things. A fashionista, a patriot, a supporter of budding designers, a civic-minded lady -- among others. But to me she would for all time be the shinning sun (literally and figuratively speaking) in the darkest of my nights.

Beauty School

2004-12-05T21:22:00.000-08:00

Make-up de rigueur for students: Nothing too red at
the school arena, please. Limiting the palette to
natural tones is the key.


COVER-UP
Imperfections are to be concealed, but we don't want
anyone to know that we are in fact hiding anything at
all. So it is a must to do the camouflage in the
subtlest possible manner.

And no, we don’t want to look "cakey".
Spend: For a translucent radiant glow, dust Laura
Mercier Shimmer loose powder in Stardust
Save: Pond’s Pink Blush Oil & Blemish Control Beauty
Powder


BLUSH 101
To apply blush, start with the apples of your cheeks –
find them by smiling. Say "cheese!"

For Oily to Combination Skin
Gingerly blend into the skin the powder blush so the
application does not seem obvious.
Spend: My personal favorite would have to be Sue
Devitt Studio blush in East Hampton
Save: L’Oreal blush in Pink Marshmallow adds a healthy
glow

For Dry Skin 
Powder blush will only cause your already dry skin to
flake. To avoid this make-up faux pas, stick to liquid
or gel blushes. They are sure to give you a stain of
color that will look très naturel minus the flakes.
Spend: I swear by Philosophy’s The SuperNatural Tint
Save: HerBench Pretty When Pinched gel blush is a
steal at P115


EYE DO 
Because of the focus on the blush, apply eye shadow to
a minimum. The key is to keep eyes soft with pale
shades because there isn’t anything more unsightly
than the two areas of your face competing.


Golden Goddess: 
Darker hues like taupe and brown works best for those
sporting a 24-karat tan.
Spend: NARS matte Sugarbaby or Goldfinger from the
Shimmer collection
Save: Sparkle with Urban Decay’s eyeshadow in Baked

Snow White: 
For the fair skinned ones, make the neutral shades
your new best friend.
Spend: MAC Shadestick in Pink Couture or Beige-ing is
a sure winner
Save: Maybelline Cool Effect Cream Eye Color leaves
the eyelids with a cooling sensation.


LASHING OUT 
Unforgiving deadlines leads to sleepless nights leads
to sleepy eyes. Awaken those droopy lids in an instant
by sweeping a coat of the magic wand (also known as
mascara).
Spend: Smashbox Focal Point lash building mascara
Save: Maybelline Great Lash indeed delivers great
lashes that one tube is sold every 1.2 seconds around
the world.


READ MY LIPS
On a bad school day, there is always a lipstick. Go
for a shade that will blend perfectly with the natural
shade of you lips. I suggest the candy-colored
formulas that go on sheer with a barely there tint.
Spend: To achieve a flattering pink pout, try Shu
Uemura’s #346 Lollishine lip color
Save: A coat of Maybelline Water Shine Diamond is all
you need to be able to flash a million-dollar smile.

Gloss can be a fabulous alternative to lipsticks.
Choose from a wide variety of yummy lipshines that add
a hint of fruity sweetness to your lips.
Spend: Lancôme Juicy Tubes are good enough to eat.
Save: Body Shop Born Lippy is a crowd favorite



BEAUTY P.S.: You should be glowing, not shinning so
keep handy oil-control films at all times. The blue
J&J thingamajig lends a quick fix.

Bazaar Hopping: The Ultimate X'mas Must-go's

2004-12-03T01:55:00.000-08:00

Shop @ The Fort Bazaar 2004 
December 5, 6,21,22,23,24,25

Get premium bargains with the latest export overruns,
children's books, toys, accessories, home
accents/décor, and a whole lot more. Located at the
NBC Tent, this bazaar promises to provide
honest-to-goodness treats without leaving your wallet
in a state of anorexia. Shop @ the Fort is always a
great place to check out whether you’re on a hunt for
fab finds ideal for gift giving, or bling blings that
lend Yuletide glamour.


Greenhills Tiange
Everyday, All-year round

Who hasn’t heard of the Greenhills tiangge? Or better
yet, who can solemnly swear that she isn’t guilty of
buying things too many from this phenomenal mart?
Really, there is something about this tiangge that
makes us coming back for more, and more, and some
more. Already brimming with wonderful goodies,
Greenhills tiangge was still able managed to make
space for some 50ish more stalls
(not-so-strategically- positioned in the parking area,
thus, causing traffic jams) that sell equally charming
items. Added bonus: Greenhills Shopping Center
presents to the public  a Christmas gift… its annual
Christmas animated display. To refresh your memory:
it’s the mannequins parading come Christmas time at
the former COD; the exact same ones we have come to
love over the years.


MARKET! MARKET!
Open at Mall hours

Market! Market!, the newest site that made it in this
year’s must-go haunts is nevertheless already making
an equally resounding B-A-N-G! This newcomer has the
concept of a traditional market place but within a
mall setting, and yes, minus the nauseating stench.
What is nice about Market! is that it has something to
offer that would fit any kind  of budget. Not only
that, it’s also got something in store for kids from 1
to 92 so we can all have ourselves a merry little
Christmas now.

***

…And the best part (and you thought you already read
the best), entrance to all three places is absolutely
free. Plus, since all-day shopping can make you drop,
its best to dine in one of the various eateries that
serves mouth-watering fares. Doing so is a surefire
way to keep you on your toes yet again after a long
day of inspecting/purchasing goods.

With the mushrooming assortment of bazaars made
available this holiday season, we can now give our
true love presents that are way cooler than, three
French hens, two turtledoves, or a partridge in a pear
tree.

The Sparkle Within

2004-11-16T20:52:00.000-08:00

Like rarity of a gem, former Assumptionist and jeweller Wynn Ong charms the author with all that's unique -- from her pieces of art to her entrancing personality.

One expects a fabulous jewelry designer, whose collections are a constant smashing success, to have a house full of spectacular things. Wynn Wynn Ong’s home delivers.

Wynn Wynn welcomed me to home one sunny morning for our scheduled interview. Immediately after we exchanged “hellos”, my gracious host repeatedly insisted that I feel at home – drink delicious 4-calorie lemonades with her, and yes, even raid through the exquisite Naga jewellery collection. At first, I was not comfortable touching the pieces for they looked so delicately beautiful. They remind me of the paintings that adorned the walls of Louvre, a trip to the European museum where the look-only-no-touch policy is put into practice. But it is extremely difficult to not get your hands on the jewellery for they are simply irresistible. So I gave in. I looked. I touched. I marvel at them. Clearly, jewellery making is definitely her passion, among other things. “I am inspired most of the time by nature, and organic things”. This love for unstructured objects is evident in her designs and in her various homes. “I think that it is important in life that you surround yourself with things that awakens the senses”, Wynn Wynn divulges. Having friends over and cook for them, being a member of the Women Writer’s Workshop and frequent travels abroad are her other passions in life.

There was no electrical energy when I arrived at her Zen-inspired residence. The Meralco electricity supply failed once again, but the electrifying force in Wynn Wynn never seems to wane. While in the course of my conversation with her, it is virtually impossible to get bored to tears because she’s so gregarious and vibrant. Traits that make you want to pay attention to whatever it is that she is chatting about. Wynn Wynn is gifted with an eye for all things beautiful – something that she puts in good use by creating visually appealing jewelleries. And when she speaks, intelligence is apparent. The biggest accomplishment she takes most pride in, however, is her two grown-up children from whom she learned to be more flexible. “We tend to be parents the way we ourselves were raised, and I realized I couldn’t. It would be unfair to them.” She talks about her children with that half-smile mastered by proud mothers.

When asked who she was a big fan of, Wynn Wynn admits being awed by the indomitable Elizabeth I. She admires “her strength of character in a time when women are in the mercy of politics and men.” Indeed, people with inner strength and integrity impress Wynn Wynn. Also, there is an old woman who sells “puto” in Cartimar (a market place), she has 3 sons and 6 daughters. “I admire her terrifically because she is always cheerful regardless of her circumstances. She has a great generosity of the heart and I think that is really important.” It is heartening to find out that Wynn Wynn, the jewellery designer for the chi-chi crowd, value “puto” vendors and the likes of them. And for me, that is what makes a person truly extraordinary. It is not about the magnificent jewelleries. It is about being nice always, and with everyone.

Movie Review: Radio

2004-07-03T22:16:00.000-07:00

Inspired by true events, this uplifting tale about
mentoring relationship showcases Oscar-winner Cuba
Gooding Jr. and Ed Harris as two diverse individuals
whose lives had not only crossed but touched as well.

Gooding Jr. is perfectly cast as a mentally challenged
young man whose life remains monotonous until noticed
by the popular high school football coach Harold Jones
(Harris). Upon initial encounter, the rigid but
good-natured coach takes an immediate fondness to
James Robert Kennedy (Gooding Jr.) – nicknamed ‘Radio’
because of his penchant for vintage radio – and becomes
contributory in Radio’s struggle to be regarded as a highly
endowed character amidst the high school hallways and beyond…

Radio will definitely leave you teary-eyed in your seat even
as the credits roll by; Nevertheless, I dare you not to cry.


*This is the first ever article that I wrote for AC Times. 
So bear with me! Teehee!  ;-p

** Thanks a bunch Beverly Dalton (my ultra fab editor) for the  break.
But more importanly, for believing in me. Really  appreciate it girl.
And yeah, I owe you big time! Mwah! :)