Calendar

I am not really sure if this deserves a blog entry or not but since I am having difficulties in choosing the 13 photos for my 2012 desktop calendar, I better put all the choices here. It will be easier for me to review and eventually pick the lucky 13. (Or maybe you can help)

 

Strands

I am inviting everyone to visit my new blog site, Nalalabing Hibla (Remaining Strands). Of course, Distilling Thoughts will be here to stay.

Nalalabing Hibla entries are written in Filipino / Tagalog, and I want it to be funny (if I won’t fail on this department), candid, and more personal. It’s basically having the same format as Distilling Thoughts, one word title and one photo per entry. Don’t worry, I won't use the same photos for these two blogs.

I hope you will find some time to visit Nalalabing Hibla. Come and join me in my journey to life just before all of my hair strands are gone. Hope to see you there.

Isang hibla ang naliligtas sa bawat kuwentong nailalabas.

Any comments, suggestion for further improvement of Nalalabing Hibla, or to make it more interesting, is greatly appreciated.

/totomai
06/24/09

Moon

Watching the moon alone in the skies brings back childhood memories. All children in our neighborhood would celebrate every time she is full. Since our parents couldn't stop us from playing, they would just gather together and talked about the achievements of their sons and daughters. Yes, we overheard it sometimes. We laughed, ran around, shouted. Our footsteps echoed throughout the neighborhood.

When I went home for a vacation, the entire street was very quiet. There are still children around but I think they are now pre-occupied with electronic gadgets, games, television shows. The silence is deafening. I realized, gone are the days when full moon means instant celebration and when the children ruled the streets.

The moon can be one's bestfriend too. Without anyone to turn to, you can go up to the roof, lie down, and talk to the moon who is very much willing to listen to you. Her light is enough to comfort you. You can tell her your secrets, inspirations, frustrations. She will listen intently. She will be the keeper of your memories and anytime she can refresh them to you. And she won't tell anyone.

Full Moon

Full moon,
I sit on this artificial beach
with the half-filled wine bottle
and reminisce the moment
of being together.
This moon
and the gentle breeze witnessed
our first kiss in sunflower field,
can’t forget the mocha scent of your lipstick;
you danced like a fairy,
swayed to the beat of the wind --
I was smitten.
One starless night,
you never came to our own spice-bush,
I waited for your embrace
until the spotlight turned off.

Next month --
there will be another full moon
again,
another moment of reminiscing.

/totomai

Cheesefest! I think I need an antibiotic now! Where is my sake?

/totomai
01/20/09

Reunion

Fourteen years ago, we were bunch of 15-16 year-olds, unclear of what the future has in store for us. Sure, we had dreams and ambitions then but it wasn't until now we can confirm whether these were realized or not, or still remain as elusive dreams. Now we are adults but still has that child's heart. Haha!

We were La Consolacion College - Bacolod High School Batch 94.

The opportunity to gather and to catch up with each other was made possible through the persistence of the organizing committee (you know who you are). The event was held at Bar 21 last December 30, 2008 from 1830H - 0500H of the 31st. Well, some of them stayed until the dawn.

We may be on our 30's but after being in that venue, flashbacks and recollections from each attendees made everyone a decade and a half younger. Yes, we were like high school once again (blame it one batch group pic posted on the wall <-- CLASSIC)! The games brought so much memories, my only qualm was no one was asked to sing A Song of Loyalty nor St. Augustin's theme. But maybe on the next reunion, it will be included. Some of our batchmates that are based abroad, also sent their support, morally and financially. Though everyone preferred the latter. As they say, words can't really describe what happened. And since I was forced (lol) to be a part of the documentation team, here's some random pics of the event.

More or less 40 came. Each section had 60 students then. And our batch had 4 sections, hmm, where are the others? I hope on our 15th year, majority of us will be attending as the organizing committee is planning to invite some of our teachers and other personnel.

And you have a year to memorize this song, including the beat (action) when you lead this song.

LOYALTY SONG

A song of loyalty
We'll try to sing to thee
To the college we love
And though it's hard to say
What's in our hearts today
We shall float our praise above
Though words cannot express
Our actions we'll confess
Our very best we'll give to thee
From our hearts we shall sing, and our praise we'll give
As we honor our school today.

Refrain

O comrades valiant for Alma Mater
Sing her praise to the sky
Her aspirations, her loyal standards
Be forever sung on high
We will pray everyday for her lasting memory
We will hope that the years will bring constant victory
Still singing O lofty tower, of lasting power
We'll give praise forever to thee.

It was nice meeting each one of you again. Until next year.

/totomai
01/04/08

Solitary

I love autumn but I don’t like the feeling this season is giving me this time. I like being alone, I feel independent. But lately, since the start of the cold season, the atmosphere inside my room is gloomy. Sometimes I feel like the last leaf on a branch. I often try to engage with different activities but still at the end of the day, I am alone.

I’ve been away from my family and been living alone for almost a decade now. But I can’t understand why this so-called thing homesickness is visiting me once again. Or maybe, just maybe, I am a stranger to my own self now. Talking to the mirror just worsen things. So I think I better talk with myself. Am I expecting to be crazy soon? Not really. Its just the season.

Solitary

The cold breeze starts to bite,
whispers omens and premonitions;
paints abstract on my mind

A hammock sways
lulled by the autumn draft.
Beside, a coffee cup sleeps
while its smoke pales into vacuity.

The jagged walls hide
my reflection,
even the shadow of mine
doubts my existence.

I locked myself up
and accept no visitors.
I wanted to be alone
in a labyrinth of fantasies
and nightmares.

/totomai

The cold season will continue until April or May (including winter and spring), but I hope I will recover fast from these poignant musings autumn brings. But hey, I still love autumn and it will never change.

All I am wishing now is to get rid of this ‘stranger’ totomai taking out some of my persona every time I close the door of my apartment.

Senseless entry, eh? Blame it to jet lag and again autumn.

/totomai
11/15/08

Pageant

Two weeks ago, my boss asked me to fetch the new engineer at the airport. I decided to bring my camera, but this time with my 50mm lens. Its more handy and user friendly. Anyway, while waiting for my officemate, I saw a lady wearing a ‘Philippines’ sash. I thought, maybe she is one of the candidates of an upcoming beauty contest.

At first, I tried taking photos of her but to no success as I have a limited range. I decided to approach her after some kababayan’s flocked around her for a photograph or two. I asked if I can take a photo of hers. Well, I told her that I’ll be blogging about her. She gladly obliged. I asked her name, she said she is Patricia Fernandez, our country’s representative this coming Ms. International Pageant on Nov. 8 in Macau.

She was accommodating. I thought that the contest will be held here in Japan but she said the organizers considered Macau for a change but they will have an event here before heading to the host country. While talking to Patricia, Ms. Colombia arrived. Thinking that I am already there, I shyly requested Patricia to call Ms. Colombia for some shots. Glad they weren’t scared of me. Haha!

At the arrival area, I saw my officemate’s neck stretched all the way to the ceilings looking for me. Another candidate arrived but I have to go back home immediately or else we will be missing the train.

Good Luck to Ms. Philippines Patricia Fernandez and also to Ms. Colombia.

ETA (source)

Miss International 2008

Congratulations to Miss Colombia - 1st Runner-up
Congratulations to Miss Philippines, Patricia - Semi-Finalist, Top 12

see my camera did wonders. LOL!

totomai
11/03/08

Anticipate

The breeze is getting colder and the heavens shed a tear or two each day. The phenomenon only means one thing, my favorite season is coming. Yes, autumn is approaching and I am anticipating its arrival already. Autumn, in my opinion, is the most poetic among the four seasons but please don’t ask me why, its just how I see it. LOL! It can be a good venue for photo opportunities, time to capture nature’s canvass, or could be an inspiration for penning a poem, a perfect metaphor or an appropriate personification.

But what I don’t really look forward during this time is the fact that I have to wear a business suit coming to the office. Time to say goodbye to short sleeved-polo shirts. Haha! Just this morning, I went to a department store and look for a decent suit. I found one and it appears like I have to save enough money to buy one. It costs from 10,000 yen that made me hope that a super sale will happen soon! Or I'll ask my office for a refund, haha. Looking forward for that too.

For the past weeks, I have been waiting for the decision about my supposed-2 week-business-supervisory trip in Iran. Despite of having my visa approved, our company decided to only send one process engineer and I, having no experience about commissioning yet, is left behind. Good for the company and me though! LOL!

Last Friday, my officemates invited me to join them on Mt. Fuji Climb this coming October 11-13. The answer that they will only accept is YES! And I said, of course! They are now planning the itinerary and I think I will be the official photographer and I have no qualm about it. After failed attempts of seeing Fuji-san, I hope this will be the chance to finally see him. (update: due to the sudden change of temperature, this activity is canceled.)

My friends and former officemates will be joining our company too. I think it will be this November. I will be playing the role of a “kuya” during their stay here and it will be like forever, LOL! I hope that they will arrive soon as projects are pouring in like rain.

Haha, looks like I’ve been anticipating lots of stuffs. This coming weekend, I am about to see, finaly, one of my oldest flickr friends, moemoechi, for her birthday celebration. I hope there’s no conflict in my schedule nor overtime will come my way. Happy Birthday Te Moe, hope to see you and I am eager to take hundreds of your portrait shots. LOL!

Also, this November, I will be joining a group of friends for a paragliding activity. I think its 7000 yen per life, LOL, I mean per flight. After experience parasailing in Thailand, I won’t be missing this activity no matter what. I hate flying, but I like this kind of adventure. Haha. Ironic. LOL!

Last Saturday, I joined a photo EB organized by Flickr Tokyo Photo Session. I’ve been trying to join the monthly events since I return to Japan. Believe me, it’s a cool group despite the fact that I can’t still remember all of their names as of this writing. Haha. Thanks Jess for the invitation. Looking forward in joining future shoots. Nice meeting you guys.

And before the year ends, of course, I am going home for the holidays. Sshh, my boss doesn’t know my plan yet. I’ll surprise him, don’t worry. I will be spending my 31^st birthday with my family and that’s a special gift already.

Anticipation will never end as long as you continue anticipating. What did I just say? LOL!

/totomai
09/28/08

Cook

I’m interested in cooking but cooking is uninterested with me. LOL! I am a struggling cook and the foods I make are only good for my personal consumption. I have no plans of endangering others’ lives, should they swallow or chew, it doesn’t matter, the stuffs I prepare.

I just passed the 2-month old mark of staying here in Japan and at last, I finally decided to use the kitchen. Yes, the kitchen had been frigid (haha) for the past 60 days. Armed with newly-bought cooking wares, I started my ritual to guide me on my first cooking encounter. I pushed the exhaust button, started the fire, and I knew I am on a great battle.

As soon as the water boils, the bubbles started to hypnotize me. Instead of the raw food to cook, I took my camera and started shooting. LOL, abstract art has its way of diverting one's attention.

After a couple of shots, its time to be serious as my stomach grunted continuously. So here I was, filling the frying pan with oil and the most-difficult-thing-to-cook, longganisa. If you can call it cooking, oh well, LOL! At least I tried.

For two consecutive days, I prepared the same meal and believe it or not, I am fully satisfied. Eaten with raw egg and hot rice, its more than enough, plus an ice-cold Coke. Whew! Often times, it is served during breakfast but I had it for dinner. Time doesn’t matter as long as I have something to eat. I’m too lazy to go out on weekends just to have lunch or dinner in some fast food chains.

How I wish I can cook the way my mother cooks adobo, or the way my father cooks pochero. Oh, I can only wish.

But next week, I’ll challenge myself more; I already have something in mind for Saturday and Sunday – the equally sweat generating spam. LOL!

/totomai
09/16/08

Separation

I am working in an oil and gas company and been handling oil and water separation technology for a while. But it is not inspiration behind this post. Though I’ve been vocal about my preference on unfairytale-like endings, there are still instances that I hope that certain relationships will last forever. I’m still human after all.

For months, I have been following the blog of my dear friend, about her struggles against the effects of a failed relationship. We haven’t seen each other for more than two years (well, thanks to webcam though) and all I can give her in times of need are my corniest jokes and not so-serious advices. That’s all I can offer, despite of everything that had happened to her, I want her to spare even a single smile to the rest of the world. She loved and got hurt. Realistically speaking, it can happen to anyone.

However, in her recent posts, I can say that she is indeed on a right track towards recovery and healing. Her writings promise strength, acceptance and determination of moving on. I’m rooting for you! Lessons had been learned on her part I guess. My friend, just embrace the changes that come your way, total recovery on your part will be achieved sooner than you think. You have been an inspiration to me too, now, you know! Haha! I really wish that your next post will be of a new adventure on your refreshed and reborn persona. Good luck and its time to face the world once again. No turning back, okay?

I had my share of separations too since in some points of my life, I fell in love. LOL! I won’t elaborate further on these failed relationships. Each tragic event (LOL!) inspired me to write a poem. Just read between the lines, and I hope you can imagine the story behind them.

In Her Wedding Dress

She exudes an angelic aura,
past enthralled the witnesses
and me.

Her veil reveals
smiles and tears;
walks solemnly towards the altar.

Head towards heaven,
she responds

I do

an affirmation
to a life of poverty,
chastity and obedience

and to a love
that will never be mine.

/totomai

----------

Japanese Doll

The glass room protects your porcelain skin
against the rays of the rising sun;
bends them to my eyes.
That rainbow halo, a magic of light,
on your face begins my day.

Each morning, before traditional duels
with the teacup, I crawl, over the futon,
toward you to be mesmerized
by the kanzashi on your hair.

The pink hue on your face mirrors
the floral kimono you wear.

How I wish I were the pillow on your back
or the paper fan that your delicate hand holds.

When the moon is out, your silhouette
assures me of a good night's sleep.

In dreamland, I could be a Japanese doll too,
with a heart-shaped forehead
and a katana to safeguard you.

Under the cherry blossoms,
You whisper

sayonara

and wakes me up;

now, pieces of glass and porcelain
cover the wooden floor;
only the kanzashi, paper fan
and kimono remain whole.

/totomai

These separations are somewhat temporary, in my opinion. No matter what closure you made, I mean, there’s a thousand and one ways of seeing each other in the future. You can keep the ending as it is, or you can add another chapter to it. I think permanent separation is more painful. Saying goodbye to a loved one is heartbreaking especially he/she can no longer hear your words and cries. I hope a dear friend and brother of mine will have the strength to face the sad reality of waving her mother goodbye. Permanently. My condolences, kuya. Have a safe trip on your way home to the Philippines. Here’s a song for you.

Separation, like change, is unavoidable.

/totomai
09/05/08

Nikki

I promised myself that before August ends, I have to make a blog dedicated to Nikki's first birthday. Nikki, my Nikon D80 camera, is my constant companion after Casey, my Casio EX-Z40 point and shoot camera, committed suicide in one of the beached in Thailand. LOL! For a year, Nikki and I had been to three countries already, took more than 15,000 photos and enjoyed the challenges of situations, weathers and events. I must say that we are a good team. She's submissive enough to my needs.

Anyway, I still admit that I have lots to learn especially on the technicalities and I hope that I could discover a thing or two in the years to come.

For her birthday, I am presenting the best photos I took (my personal opinion only) each month from the first day I had her in my arms. Most of these photos are unedited, I just added signature on some of them. Two photos are auto-corrected and everything else is directly from the camera.

August 2007 - Taken the very same day I bought Nikki. Playing with the setting led you to an overexposed photo! Ha ha!

September 2007 – The same day Casey died. We waited for the sunrise but we were on the wrong side of the island. But its my favorite sunrise shot.

October 2007 – The Floating Market in Rachaburi Thailand is a photographer's delight. It's one of the colorful markets you will ever see. Vendors were camera-friendly too.

November 2007 – Met some of my Multiply contacts who organized this photo shoot. Nong Gate is definitely a model in the making. She is just so natural.

December 2007 – My favorite flower shot. Despite the blowing wind, I was glad to capture what's on my mind during that time.

January 2008 – What would you do when you wake up, you saw something like this on the floor? Of course take your camera before anything else.

February 2008 – My bestfriend and I decided to explore Bangkok. No itineraries. Just purely come what may moment.

March 2008 – Received a macro lens as a gift. This was a test shot but I absolutely adore it.

April 2008 – My first pre-nuptial shoot! I am not confident if I will do justice with their portraits but since they are friends, and its free of charge, its worth the experiment. Haha!

May 2008 – Cambodia. Invited by my Thai officemates on a tour. It was a great experience too.

June 2008 – Went back to the Philippines after my contract wasn’t renewed. Joined a camera club in Bacolod and was invited to join their activity here.

July 2008 – Back to Japan this time. Finally met my online friends after three years. This was the first photo I ever sold online. Ha ha!

August 2008 – Definitely my favorite photo taken this month. And what it makes more special is the fact that it reaches the flickr's Explore front page. My first with Nikki.

power of the lens
magnifies hidden auras
a melodic click

I'll continue to shoot as long as there are interesting subjects. Just keep on shooting. Then delete them afterwards.

/totomai
08/28/08

Contemplate

I’ve been in a contemplative mood lately. I am not entirely sure why I feel this way. Was it brought by homesickness? Nope. Perhaps, it’s the fact that I have more time with myself now. I am alone but not that lonely. LOL!

Last Saturday, I went to the wake of my supervisor’s wife, who lost the battle for about a year against cancer. She was 58, a not-so-old age. It was a Buddhist ceremony, a more quiet service than what I have witnessed before. During the wake, I thought, which is more preferable, to die from sickness or to die unprepared. If you are sick, though you can feel that you are losing the battle but at least you can able to say goodbye to your loved ones. There may be an emotional struggle on their part too but they can get it over with it. On the other hand, I have been reading stabbing incidents here in Japan, especially the Akihabara incident, wherein a madman just slashed off the life of some bystanders. I thought, what my family would feel if I was one of the victims. They won’t have any choice but to accept my fate but that would be torture on their part. Right now, I better be sick and die than to die without knowing that I am already a history.

This week, a friend of mine celebrated his 31st birthday. In jest, I told him that he should have a grand celebration because it will be the last birthday to be on the calendar, age wise. LOL! Come four months, he told me to the same too. I am getting old and it’s not good. Haha! I also joined a group of friends for a videoke session. Most of them are on their early 30’s but they are all married. They talked about their families, children, wives. As I observed them, a part of me is a bit envious and my imagination went to a fictional paradise with my fictional family. Deeply, I thought, is it time to panic? But I also think that some got married at a very late age, maybe that’s my destiny too. Getting married at 70. LOL! By the way congratulations and best wishes to my tukayo, who is getting married this Saturday.

On a train, I saw a very old Japanese couple, on their 80’s or 90’s perhaps, walking very slowly but holding each other’s hands. As they moved out of the train, I thought of my parents, how can they go to places they want to visit if their physical bodies won’t allow them too? I am away from them. Is my monthly monetary help enough to compensate the longing they feel? Maybe yes. Maybe no. I don’t know either. As they are my inspiration, I hope they understand I need to work abroad.

I’m on my first month here in Japan working in an engineering firm. I used to work here, yes in the same company, two years ago but due to some personal reasons I resigned. They gave a chance to work with them again. During these early weeks, I feel like a beginner once again. I forgot some of the things that I have done before and my subordinates, whom I got the chance to teach before, are now the ones teaching me. Actually I don’t have any problem with that set-up its just I found it funny when they say that you are the one who made this and that. LOL! That’s what old age can do, forgetting things immediately.

Looks like I’m over-analyzing everything! I badly need a Thai massage. Oh, maybe a Japanese massage.

/totomai
08/07/08

Oriental

I’ll be entering my 4^th week here in Japan. That’s how fast time flies, faster than how Japanese people sprint against the hurly-burly of the city. LOL!

I won’t deny the fact that Japan had a special spot in my heart. And returning back to said country brings back the memories of my previous stay here in Japan. My previous company invited me again to join them and after a series of reflections, I accepted the offer. I am not getting any younger and I have to be more mature while making decisions. My present company offers me venue for my professional growth and job security and stability. I just hope I won’t disappoint them or else I will go back to being unemployed sooner than I imagine. LOL!

Of course I had my apprehensions. I don’t know what will be the reactions of my other colleagues, but everything I fear was immediately extinguished after their warm welcome. I felt that I just took a vacation leave and that I never left the company. I will try my best to be an asset. I will try.

My stay here is quite good. I mean, I didn’t need any adjustments after all. Its like as if I am home. From the usual sleeping habit on my way to office, to matsuya dinner, to sushi and sake, it’s like 2005 once again. I have been actively participating in an online forum for Filipinos in Japan and have been meeting online friends of almost three years as well as the neophytes. I think I won’t get tired of meeting them. Haha, Mr. Congeniality strikes again!

One more thing, I am already abusing my camera with street shots, a photography subject that I am secretly obsessed. Though I am not that brave yet in aiming my camera to the subjects at least I am trying to get some decent shots. But I hope I won’t be harassed and be brought to a police station as I can’t defend myself in Japanese. Wakaranai!

Japan is a beautiful country coupled with mesmerizing traditions and cultures. I embraced it before and I am embracing it again. I missed it dearly -- the oriental setting, the calmness despite the hurried city life, the overflowing respect of the locals and the delicateness of Japanese women. Wow, I just realized, I missed a lot!

absence of ripples
mist ices up the crystal lake
oriental charm

I am really enjoying my stay here. Hope it will be forever. As I still have one mission to accomplish.

/totomai
07/27/08

Bumhood

Happy Monthsary, Bumhood!

One month had passed, and I am still unemployed. But I’ve been busy! LOL! I think so. Anyway, please bear with this very interesting post – a list of what I did for the past 30 days. Haha. I don’t have any good topic to write about, hence, this entry.

As soon as I arrived home, I wasted no time in seeing an ophthalmologist to have my eye checked. Four days before leaving Thailand, a tennis ball hit my right eye. The doctor informed me that I have some minor retinal breakage and advised to undergo laser surgery. It costs P18000. I told him, I hope it can wait until next year, just in time I have a new job. LOL!

I watched attentively the second week of the French Open and been rooting for Roger Federer to clinch the title. But unfortunately, I witnessed how Rafael Nadal massacred him on court and took the crown.

On other sports, I am glad to see Boston Celtics taking the NBA Championship crown. All of my family was rooting for Los Angeles Lakers. LOL!

The Wimbledon Championships had started and there are lots of upset already. Still, I am rooting for Federer to take his 6^th title in the New England Club.

Last June 18, I and my brother watched the concert of Air Supply. It was our bonding moment. We really enjoyed the show. Of course, we should as we bought the most expensive ticket. LOL! Blogged.

I joined a photography club here in Negros. The group is pretty organized and I admired the dedication of the members. I participated in one of the photo contests here, and as usual, I lost! Haha. Well, its not really about winning, its about expressing your passion through your lens. That’s the reason I will be joining another photo contest again this coming Saturday. And its my first time to witness the Mudpack Festival in Mambukal, one of the provinces in Negros Occidental. Hope the weather will cooperate.

I withdrew one of my applications due to a very personal reason. The contract only needed my signature but I declined. Moving on. LOL! Oh and talking about moving on, I would like to say good luck to my friend C and his family for a new life awaiting them in The Netherlands. Take care. Also, I am wishing my other friend J for a more exciting life in South Korea. And I am very happy for my friend C who finally got the chance to meet her girlfriend C in Italy after two years. Wow! Cheers to all of you!

I am enjoying everything I did here. Waking up at 6 am to go to the market and buy meat, fish or vegetable is quite exciting. LOL! But I can’t forget one instance where I accidentally left my celfone inside the cab. Luckily I was able to feel my shorts and my senses immediately alerted me about the missing gadget. With all the grocery bags on my hand, I sprinted like a track and field champion until I finally got the attention of the taxi driver. LOL!

I got the chance to listen to three great music releases, Alanis’ Flavors of Entanglement, Journey’s Revelation and Coldplay’s Viva La Vida or Death and All of His Friends. These three albums are constantly playing on my i-pod.

I think I am talking non-sense already. LOL! That’s what bumhood can do, and it will be ending soon. Fingers-crossed.

/totomai
06/27/08

Kusina

I’m finally home.

Of course, I am happy to be back home but a part of me is still hoping for an assurance of a new job. As of the meantime, I am an unemployed individual. LOL!

While working in Thailand, I conditioned my mind to spare enough money for the renovation of our kitchen. I knew that re-constructing our kitchen would require a bit of money, since it was like an extended dirty kitchen before. Haha! Everyone in our family, especially my mother loves to cook and it is one of the many reasons why I wanted to have a presentable one. I got the chance to meet Gail, younger sister of my college friend, and asked her if she could do some beautification miracles of that ugly spot in our house. She presented her idea and I agreed with most of it. I suggested bits of tweaking though.

As soon as I arrive home, I went directly to the kitchen and I am more than impressed. My family is delighted with the outcome too. Thanks Gail. More pics of the kitchen here.

This is my gift to my mother last Mother’s Day, my Kitchen Señora (reposting the poem below).

Kitchen Señora

In her backyard, gumamelas whisper
to each other as she mantles cold banana
leaves on the wooden table,
guarded by two acacia trees.

The bermuda grass curses
her careless steps --- dashing back and forth.
Like a sprint queen, she carries edible torches
and lays them on the platform.

The black-sauced pasta
and bronzed turkey, baklava cake
and chrysanthemum salads she prepares,
festoon the old lamesa

The approach of familiar voices signals,
she hand-strikes her hair, quickly wipes
her sweat and positions near the door,
Welcome, my dear children
another family reunion looms

As long as I have the strength to work abroad, I will continue to make necessary improvements to the place we call home. My sweats in Japan had fixed our bathroom and comfort room. My blood in Thailand had made-up our kitchen. Wherever my next destination be, the living room will be the next focus.

See, I am a good son after all. LOL! Oh please, so give me a job quick!

totomai
05/24/08

Roar

Allow me to rant a bit.

Cebu Pacific has a comparably lower rate than that of Philippine Airlines, be it a domestic or an international flight. And according to a newspaper ad, the former leads the latter when it comes to total passengers carried last year. Good job then, Cebu Pacific!

I am in Thailand and working for almost a year already. My friend is planning to take a vacation at the end of March and had requested me to do the online booking using my credit card. I tried, but my transaction was denied. Funny but my card had no outstanding balance or whatsoever. Zilch. I told my friend that I will buy her ticket when I return to the Philippines via Philippines Airlines, lol.

Anyway, 330 pm, Monday, I went to Cebu Pacific (lol, I won’t be mentioning the outlet here) to purchase the ticket. They had a separate queue for international flights, and I was lucky enough that my number was called at 4 pm. To my surprise they (Cebu Pacific staff) asked me to wait as they will check the availability of my friend’s preferred flight and called the next number. 430 pm, a little commotion took place as the guard locked the door even when it says they close at 5 pm. Perhaps they are expecting that at 5 pm, all who are inside will be finished so they can go their way. No overtime for them. Haha! 5 pm arrived and they said there still checking the schedule. WTF? 30 minutes after, they confirmed that there is still an available seat. I immediately asked how much and if I can pay by card. Its about 18K pesos and only a portion of it (60%, IIRC) can be paid by card and the rest by cash according to them. So I told them if I can withdraw since I didn’t bring enough money, lol, and an ATM machine is only on the other street. They said, they’ll just reserve the seat and I have to pay the next day. I said fine, I’ll just return tomorrow morning, its 630 pm already! But they said, wait! We haven’t confirmed the reservation yet, so if I can wait for a bit to be sure. WOW! Just wow! I insisted that I’ll just withdraw some money, but they said it won’t take long and they are already closed. Okay.

While waiting, I was able to ask a staff regarding the online booking. I told her my transaction was denied. She said that it needs a manual approval from Cebu Pacific (which means that you have to call the main offices – Manila or Cebu). So, what’s the use of online booking then? She answered confidently, its our policy. WTF? Its 715 pm when they finally confirmed that the seat is reserved and I’ll just pay tomorrow morning.

I went to the said outlet at 930 am, and of course they know me already after spending a couple of hours the day before. I was pretty pumped up that I’ll just spend 30 minutes the maximum but lo and behold, the staff asked me, sir can I get your preferred schedule??? WTF? I thought it was okay already and you will give me the ticket as soon as I arrive, of course, after paying. And here we go again, starting with the computation of how much I am going to pay, and this and that. It’s the policy, sir. De javu, anyone? They finally gave me the ticket at exactly 1230 pm. Fuck!

The next day my friend asked me if I can rebook the ticket on a later date. I checked the online booking and the price was lower than the original one. So I called Cebu Pacific and asked if I can rebook the ticket. The staff answered that its okay you just have to pay 1.5K pesos for rebooking fee and requested me to go their office and since its lunch time she can’t stay long on the phone. WTF?

I went there Thursday, 110 pm. I let them check the new schedule and was confident enough that the fare will be cheaper. They said that I have to pay an additional 7K pesos if I want to rebook the ticket since there are no more ‘cheap’ seats available. So I argue and showed the print out based on the online booking. They insisted its different from online booking and actual booking. I told them how can it be different? They told me, just because. WTF?

Whew! So I asked them what if I will just refund the ticket and they said its fine but I’ll have to wait for 2-3 months before they can return the money. Wow! I paid in cash, yes sir, but it’s the policy! I told them I guess you refer to the online booking since it will take time obviously. They showed the bulletin that for refund based on online booking, it will take 8-10 months before it will be returned. Amazing Cebu Pacific! I left the place at 430 pm.

I am not sure if they are properly trained or what? Management, look at your staff. Tsk, tsk.

And by the way, another friend of mine was able to rebook his ticket with a cheaper price. Must be their computers doing some random selections, lol.

I hope I won’t deal with this kind of people in the near future. Well, I guess I won’t as I haven’t taken an international flight via fucking Cebu Pacific!

Cebu Pacific Air - It's time everyone flies... after your patience had been tested. LOL!

/totomai
03/20/08

Blogsary

for Today's Flower

Ah, its my blogsary. Its been a year since my first entry.

How did this site come into existence? Well, I and my friend were in this so-called bumbhood (unemployed) stage when she dared me to do something productive. She told me to write an entry per week. It was a challenge on my part as I have been struggling with complete thoughts and essays. LOL!

For a year, I have been introduced to other blogsites that I never thought there are lots. Among them whom I frequently visit:

A Hundred A Day – this site had the same birthdate as mine. She is my friend and my inspiration on how to make a decent entry. She is also responsible in improving my poetry. I tell you, she is one helluva talented writer. Please read her entries, you’ll like it there.

Atheista – LOL! This site is already popular. I don’t have to post it here to add hits to his site. Benj was the one who introduced me to blogosphere via this entry. I got the chance to meet him in Pattaya, Thailand during one of his debating escapades.

Photography by JulioC – My sensei. I knew him through Flickr and had been my adviser in photography. If you want to see some wonderful photos, visit his site.

Jeques’ Webnook – Stumbled a thread in Pinoyexchange about haikus. We communicated in the thread and if I remember correctly, I asked him to start his own blog site. Visit his site, he shares his masterpieces.

Our Beautiful World at the Backroads – One of my favorite college professors. What surprises me is that she is into outdoors. She can be a tourist guide in San Diego. LOL!

03.03.03 stories – Tukayo! We have the same blog type, LOL, a personal one. I frequently visit his site as I can see myself in some of his writings.

Behind the Shrubbery – Liz is never afraid in speaking her mind. She had lots of stories to tell, events to share.

And I do visit some of the sites too. Kindly refer to the side bar. LOL!

Before I forget, I am about to share to each one of you my new site:

Filtered Precipitates – a collection of poems I wrote when I was young. LOL!

Thanks everyone for the comments, visits, links, suggestions and so on and so forth. Haha!

Happy Blogsary to Me!

/totomai
03/06/08

Red

Oh no its February, the dreaded love month, LOL. The world is once again carpeted with shades of red, not only because of the so-called celebration of love but as well as with the Chinese New Year festivities. Love and luck should go hand in hand in some cases, hmm, for people like me. Haha! Just kidding of course.

This month, I will be celebrating the season with my friends and officemates. I have no choice as I am very much single at this particular time. LOL! Oh, but it’s a working day so perhaps I better focus my attention to my job. Haha!

Of course, I’ve been in love. Until now, I still know the said feeling, its just I don’t know whom I am going to share it in the future. Cupid must be very busy scouting and matchmaking other people and he forgets to find one for me. Well, I take any left-over. Hehe.

Here’s how I summarized my feelings when I am in love. See, my heart doesn’t only feel, read on.

Senses of My Heart

sees the beauty beyond
twilights and dawns;
stares through the magic
of aurora borealis

hears the whispers
of waterfalls to the rivers;
listens to the duets
of midnight bats and owls

tastes the honeyed rain
and the syrupy wind;
savors the twang
of a melancholic ocean

smells the scent of clouds
and the musk of sandcastles;
inhales the aroma of the night
enchanting, refreshing

touches the skin of a volcano
warmth and longing;
feels the tremors of your heart
until it spews out my name

Happy Hearts’ Month Everyday!
(Can’t think of a better way to end this blog. Poor me!)

/totomai
02/06/08

Sayuri

If I want to focus on portraiture, I have to explore the settings of my camera. I have to admit that its difficult but at the same time its fun. My new camera is barely four months old and its only last month I was able to take photos outside of portrait and auto modes.

One of my favorite model is Sayuri, the japanese doll i bought for my aunt. Since my aunt is staying with us, I can freely abuse Sayuri-san anytime and anywhere I want to. These photos are the result of my experimentation. Its amazing how she can look differently with each shot, of course, just my opinion.

By the way, the first half was taken by my point and shoot camera and the last half by my new one.

Anyone interested to be my model? Of course, if the price is right. LOL!



/totomai
12/10/07

Countdown

The title of this blog should have been Catch-up. But decided to change it to Countdown for an obvious reason. I am going back to the Philippines this Saturday. WOW! I hope that this vacation will push through. I mean, my original schedule was Nov 17 – Dec 2 but due to work demands, my boss requested me to move it to Dec 1 – Dec 16. For two weeks, I’m work free. City of Smiles, here I come. LOL!

Anyway, I’ve been very busy these past few weeks. Deadlines are pouring like storms but I can still manage to sleep. Haha! Hmm, aside from work, what have I done?

* Experienced a sun-up to sundown photoshoot 3 weeks ago. I finally met Davis, my multiply online buddy who really got great portrait shots. We explored Pattaya along with Dong and Caloy and took all opportunity to shoot. Anywhere. Anyone. T’was a great experience. Thanks guys!

* Tried target shooting and my first try wasn’t bad enough. Had all the five bullets on the target. Never mind the next batch, hehe, I called it beginner’s luck after all.

* Drove on the highway. Yeah, big deal? It is for me. No need to explain further. Haha!

* Participated in Loy Krathong festival. Bert’s farewell party (Bert, ingat ka diyan). Ailene’s birthday (ayan, nasama ka sa blog, happy birthday). Food. Food and lots of food.

* And of course, want to see me? Just check this video. LOL!

I am really looking forward to be with my family (I missed them so much). Though I am predicting that I’ll be doubling my weight, its fine as I will be eating non-spicy food again. LOL!

Well, that’s it for the time being. I’ll start packing.

/totomai
11/26/07

Smile

One of the inexpensive gifts you could give to anybody is your smile. Just don’t mind not having a perfect smile but you as long as you expose an unadulterated beam, it will be fine.

Meeting strangers along the way is unavoidable. It is a part of our daily life. When I was a student, I easily gained a lot of friends by smiling at them. It was my way of breaking the ice. I cracked jokes, green ones included, and sometimes senseless yet funny antics. I am happy doing that but I am careful enough not to offend anyone. I still have a heart. Haha! In my elementary years, I run for a position in the student government and believe it or not, our party is S.M.I.L.E. I was known as the class catalyst then and a Laughing Gas Nominee in one of our events in College.

Along the way, I realized that a simple smile can even lighten a serious problem. Call me crazy but I found it to be an effective method of lessening the burden. Well, not really me, its our mother who taught us how to deal with problems. If answers seem blurry, don’t dwell on it as if it will be taking your time indefinitely.

While applying for a job, I was asked during a panel interview on how I can handle pressure. I blurted out, “Two things. Take a deep breath. And Smile.” I knew they didn’t think of me as crazy then as they hired me as a cadet engineer.

Working in countries where English speakers are scarce is quite difficult. Each time I had the chance to talk or start a conversation with a local, I usually begin it with a beam followed by sign language of course. Hehe. Modesty aside, when I was in Japan, one of my bosses told me that aside from my work ethics, its my personality that they like most. How can they not like me when I always say yes to all their drinking sprees, be it on weekends or weekdays! They even gave me an option not to go to office the next morning. Spoiled gai-jin.

Anyway, a smile is pretty magical. It gives a feeling of existence. Smiling to strangers won’t take anything from you yet you offer something to them. And a smile can wipe away the not-so-good mood of others. Just don’t over-smile (if this is a valid word).

Plaster a smile on your face everyday! It will make you look younger. (But why do I look old on my age, then?).

And so you know, I grew up in the City of Smiles.

/totomai
08/26/07