KR Travelogue Day6b: Change of Plan

Two floors down from where I boarded the elevator, the door opened and I was greeted with a smile from Ms. Fashionable herself Chi Yan. She dragged along her suitcase, handcarry and a plasticful of groceries. I asked how the meeting with her Mom went yesterday and she said that they went shopping to Lotte Mart. Hmm, I heard of this as one of the must-visits prior leaving from one of my officemates. I also inquired about her flight schedule and learned that it’s at 11 AM. Sigh. It’s about time everybody leaves today. I feel a twinge at the thought.

Mine is yet at 10 PM tonight. I reckoned I’ve got ample time to live and breathe Seoul. After what happened last night, I wouldn’t allow myself to leave Korea empty-handed. In fact this morning, I did a quick accounting (haha!!) and proofing (evidence above, hehe) of my cash on-hand and tried to conjure up the excitement on the vast and varied items it could afford in Dong Dae Mun. Haha!! I even thought about visiting Lotte Mall or perhaps squeeze another famous place to visit like the 63 building for example. Exciting!! ŰŰŰ

We then reached the lobby and before I can bid her my farewell, she felt inside her grocery bag and handed me a sealed 3-bottles of yogurt drink. I inspected it and saw that it’s the same banana flavor that I loved when David first made us try it two days ago. Aww, such a sweet woman!! What have I done to deserve this?? I muttered my thanks and wished her a safe flight.

No sooner was she gone and I was back to my original purpose. I may have lots of activities for today but I’ve got one more agenda to finish this morning: see Samuel. It’s been 6 months, 8 days, 12 hours since he went away. I miss him so much and I don’t know what to say. I gave an audible sigh. It’s past 8 AM and I was hoping that he didn’t take his breakfast early. If I missed it, then there’s no hope of seeing him again. =( I scanned the dining hall hoping to catch someone familiar. None. Where could they be??

I weaved through the throng of international diners and decided to take the right side of the hall. I dropped my yogurts in one of the – and there’s that word again – STRATEGIC position (strategic in the sense that I can easily spot and be spotted by whoever is coming) and made my way to the buffet table in the center. As I go on considering which among the omelets, croissants, Danishes, muffins, potatoes, cereal, crepes and many more am I having, I recognized Esther from the other side having a convo with this Chinese guy from the conference. The fact that I don’t know him strongly suggests that I don’t like him. I dunno. He’s an Asian probably working in a European country and it irritates me that he only talks to the European ladies (Esther and Nilce). He’s about to leave the moment I approached their table to drop my things and when I was back clutching with me a very delicious palate of my morning meal, he’s already gone. Oh, goody!!

“Where were you guys last night?” I asked casually and coolly; totally moved on from the fact that I could’ve missed whatever it is that happened last night. I sliced on my bacon and took my first bite.

“Oh, where were you?? We went to a bar!!!” Esther exclaimed enthusiastically. Suddenly, I found it hard to chomp on my bacon. There was tightness in my chest; a constriction in my throat. Thoughts are running wildly in my head. Perhaps with a different introductory answer to my question, I would’ve listened to her story on how she saw a very hot American guy or I would’ve noticed a new discovery that Mexicans are not really honed in speaking English but instead all I could focus on was: Samuel and Nilce probably getting cozy at the bar, getting inebriated perhaps, both of them going back to the hotel and God knows what else could happen. Gasp! Of course, I was only deducing from what I observed yesterday in Everland. God, I was jealous!! I was jealous; it was hot and green in my veins!!

“Too bad, we missed it. We were at the lobby at 7:45. We thought it was the meeting time.” I said trying not to show any hint of my emotion. I felt a spasm of hatred for myself for ignoring her calling in the elevator, for wandering in the lobby some more and for choosing to share the ride up with the American-based Korean guys.

“Eh, I told you before I go up, it’s 7:15!!” Right. Did the woman have to twist every knife?? I hate myself more with each passing seconds.

Oh no. What have I just done?? What could’ve possibly happened?? I was desperate to know but was she desperate to tell?? I wanted to fish for more info and although Esther was willing enough to share, none of her details could untie that knot in my stomach.

“So how many of you went out last night?” I asked after she just finished the tale on how the Korean girls zeroed in on the hot American guy. It’s an out of the blue question and completely unrelated I know but I had no choice.

She then recited to me all of the persons that came. “Massy, Samuel, Ronald, Alexy, Christian and Jakub.” I didn’t hear any Nilce. Did I hear it right??

“What about Nilce?” I asked finally and demandingly. I was expecting it was the same group as yesterday.

“Eh, she did not come. I think she went out with the guy who’s always with her.” She drawled.

I felt my whole body sag with relief. Phew!! This guy really had a special gift for making me a paranoid. So they drank last night, probably they’ll show up very late.

“So where are you going today?”

“Eh, maybe in In Sa Dong?? Eh, I asked the girl in the receptionist and said it is just near.”

“Really, what’s in there?”

“Eh, maybe museums. Shops.”

“Oh really?” I replied nonchalantly. “Who are you going out with?”

“Samuel.”

Ok. Let me just get my options absolutely clear here alright?? I’ve got lots of money for shopping today, u-huh. I’m going to make sure I’ve rounded each and every mall in Dong Dae Mun and emerge with the nicest presents for my friends and relatives back at home and bag the most fashionable clothes I could ever find. Nope, I’m not really keen on museums and all. It’s not a priority. Not at all.

“Can I join you guys?”

Toink!! Hahaha!! The moment she said yes, I can feel a beam of elation popping through. Ű I’m going out with Samuel!!! Woohoo!!! And Esther, okay I’m not forgetting.

Later, I caught sight of Dien standing on the buffet table and waved at him to join us in our table. As soon as he was seated, I began recounting to him the fun we missed last night. I also invited him to come with us in In Sa Dong to which he gladly obliged. If I’m not going to solo Samuel then might as well have more company. After all, the more the merrier. Right?? Ű

My back was facing the entrance to the dining hall and for some reason; some greater force prompted me to turn around. And there standing out from the crowd, gracing the halls of the dining are is Samuel. Perhaps, in another place or at another time, I would’ve noticed the commotion on the spilled glass of juice on the next table or the waiter asking for my coffee refill, but the only thing I could notice, the only thing with any definition was Samuel. I riveted my eyes on him, half-expecting him to turn his face towards us and half-wanting him to join us in our table. Then behind him came Ronald, clocking in at 6’2” and there’s only one more seat left in our table. They picked the table from where I initially positioned myself. *Sigh*

I was about to finish my meal when I saw him filling his plate from the central buffet table. All of a sudden he was coming towards the long line of sizzling servings right behind us. I was on full crush alert!! I can see that he’s about five to six steps away from me and certain bits of my body are already responding to him. Then came my most awaited moment!! He walked towards us and came along his good morning greeting is flash of his smile. One of those smiles!!! I gave him a feeble smile in return knowing full well that Dien was staring at me and studying my behaviors. Bastard, haha!!

Anyway, Esther confirmed to him the details of our meeting later and everybody agreed to see each other at 9:30 in the lobby. I happily shared how I got my banana yogurts this morning to Esther and Dien while heading back to our rooms. And against my better instincts and although I really love the yogurt, I distributed the two to Esther and Dien before the door opened to their floor. I was happy and I’d like to share my blessings. ŰŰŰ

(continue)

The Dress, the Phone and the Nieces

Credit goes to my friend Lisa (who's still hasn't read my last post, hahaha!) for the title. I noticed that she has this hobby of creating titles in that pattern, hehe.

So last Sunday was spent for a religious convention. As usual, I will be posting here what I wore. :P

On the way to where it was held, I noticed the very good camera function of the phone I'm using: my SGH-I450. Photos below were taken to highlight the said feature of our phones. :P

And more vanity. :P :P :P

It's been a while since I avoided kids because of a sad experience. I hope you read about it here in my blog. Last Sunday, my cousin's daughter Kat kat approached me when I was experimenting with my digicam.

In the evening, my nieces again (this time from my father's side) visited us. I realized I've grown apart from them. Well it's not that I see them often but still, they're my nieces. And the youngest one, the cutest one for me hehe, was a bit aloof and wouldn't come to me.

But really I have this magic with kids. This has already been proven many times, even with kiddos that are not my relatives. Like last time in Bataan, it was the first time to see my Ate Maricel's daughters. I only spent there a day but before I went home, they were already asking when I'm going to return. Awww, sweet kids!! :) Here's Grizzly, Kaye kaye and Zsa Zsa. :D

Still can't get over and fond of these kids, I kept on looking at the pics in my office the next day and showed them to my officemates.

"Cute nila noh? Grabe tong mga batang to. Kaliliit pa lang ang hilig na mgpa-picture. Buti na lang wala ng film ngayon." I said.

Then Siegfred blurted. "Kung magsalita ka naman KC, parang wala silang pinagmanahan."

I was surprised with his response. Ayun, nakatikim siya ng matinding hampas sakin. Hahaha!!

Then it hit me. Omigosh, these kids!! They have such a smart and pretty Tita, I'm sure they'll all grow up to be of such kind. Wahaha!!!

Reyna ng Sablay

Have I got a story for you guys?? I sure do. Duh?!?! Like I run out of anecdotes to share, hehe. Just like my travelogues, this one’s a bit delayed. Though blogging has been a very nice immediate outlet for venting out your emotions, I learned to temporarily keep them for myself. I need time to totter on the edge just to see what the landscape beyond has got to offer. Although I’ve given the subtlest hints about these in my previous posts, now I’m ready to spill it all out. And what is it all about you may ask?? Well, this will be about my recent mishaps with MEN and how I truly deserve the title above: Reyna ng Sablay!! Interesting, right?? Yay!! Hahaha!! :D

Strike #1: Aaah, the benefit of having a blogger friend. I didn’t really have to strain myself and think of words to explain what happened. She posted about it in here and I copied parts of it here. Here’s a catch though, if you clicked on the site, you’ll discover a nice page with insights from another prolific writer friend of mine, Lissy. Ü Clue: This is the time when I told you that I almost jumped into a “In a relationship” status. Remember? She entitled this post as The Bomalabs Strike Back.

Its hard 4 me 2 mit up wid u kc nalilito din ako. I dnt knw really if i love her, but i knw dat she loves me..."
- Actual SMS message from Mr. Bomalabs (to my girlfriend)


5:39 p.m., Wednesday. I was on my way to ride the shuttle service going home from the office when my phone buzzed with an SMS message from my girlfriend. She was having this convo (via SMS) with a guy we both know from sometime way back, and from the looks of it my friend was being put on the 'spot' by the guy, and she was confused (and a little giddy, to be honest) as to where the convo would lead to. For a while I got really excited for her, knowing too well that their friendship has come quite a long way and that yes, she likes the guy. I stay tuned as she updated me on how their convo was going, until she told me that the guy confessed having gotten back with his ex-girlfriend (come to think of it, it's now gonna be 'ex-ex-girlfriend', ha ha!). It would have been fine, as if two good friends were sharing some good news in an attempt to catch up with each others' lives. It's really just fine. Until he dropped the bomb and confessed that he's had feelings for my friend even way before, and that he isn't that enthusiastic about the getting-back-together thing because he's not so sure whether he still loves his ex or not.

That’s the gist. You may all have different views as from what she sees it (if you continued reading in her blog), but it really doesn’t matter. That guy is dead, gone, excised from my life. Since when?? Since I learned last week when I checked his profile and he has a pic hugging this very cute fluffy puppy that he oh-so-discreetly named KC!! Aaargh!! Yep, he knows I LOVE dogs and I just hate myself for being too nosy on his life. He should’ve been long dead, gone and excised from my life. Phhhbt!!

Strike #2: Again, I’ve hinted about this in a post about the party at Dolce. I was surrounded by my Korean counterparts and some friends so I’m quite sure I’m safe not to be approached by anyone. It’s a company event and I’m quite having fun already with my colleagues. But then this stranger came and ok, I was a bit impressed with his undaunted move. At first, it was just fine discovering that we came from the same school and all that jazz. He was even courteous enough to buy me a drink and to introduce me to his friends. But a little later, he came out insinuating what he really wanted. He probably got the idea that somehow I was into it because of my friendliness, but this man winded me up the wrong way. I didn’t really feel degraded because of course; I know in my logical mind that most of the people here come for that and that no decent man can ever be found in places like that. I was just caught off guard in the situation and I’m thankful that I managed to escape out of it. That guy can just sod off should I meet him up in the future. Well, that’s if we’ll meet coz I’m keeping it quite low for now. :P

Strike #3: This guy and his friend were present in situation # 2. The last time I saw them was already about a year ago, when my friend rejected his friend. They’re those richie rich kids type who just spent all their lives hitting up the clubs at night. Since I last met him in Dolce, he was a bit insistent on text that we all meet up. I wasn’t really keen about this because I know he’s already got a son and there’s no point of us hanging out. But after canceling on him FOUR times, I gave in when he said he was just infront of the office running errands for his sister’s bakeshop nearby. So there I was a bit conscious that I’m on a corporate suit meeting up with this guy yet for all I know I will be victimized with a very old modus operandi: I was stolen with a phone!! My friend and I were both shell-shocked with what just happened believing that he was so much incapable of doing it. After 2 days, the guy showed up to me with his friend and was very apologetic about it. He explained he was in dire need and works are now on the way for the phone to be returned.

Let me just point out that this all happened consecutively and within a span of I think 2 months. Okay, everybody now!! Hahaha!!! Oh come on, I can’t hear you. Make it louder. HAHAHA!! Let me join, WAHAHA, HA-DI-HA, HA-DI-BLOODY-HA!! Not only am I funny right?? My lovelife is a COMPLETE JOKE!! I am a walking disaster. D-I-S-A-S-T-E-R, disaster!! There!! Now don’t get the wrong idea here, I’m not here for a sympathy overload and I’m also not sharing bitter sentiments about it. I simply summarized these facts to give you the reason why I am still SINGLE right now or perhaps, the rationale why I should become an OLD MAID in the future. Haha!! While some of you may violently react and say that it’s too early for me to tell, I think it’s better to be prepared now and embrace it than spend a long time anticipating for someone to come. Come to think of it, there’s an aunt in each of my parent’s side that embraced the same fate. Though I’m not saying that it’s hereditary, it seems that there’s just likelihood.

Honestly, I’ve been badly hurt in love ONCE but I’m not afraid to open up my heart again. Really, it’s a wonderful feeling to be in love. And while some of you may argue that my pickiness maybe the reason for this entire debacle, you can very well recall how I once set it aside and the disaster that happened. *sigh*

Music of the Moment: Hari ng Sablay. (Can’t embed due to incompatibility with Imeem)

And while you’re at it with the music, please change the Hari to Reyna too. *wink*

It's Love

His voice drives me crazy!! I'm not a fan of the show so he was non-existent to me before but when I heard his rendition - it's LOVE!! I heart you, David!! Ü

So, IMEEM isn't compatible with Blogger or Multiply anymore huh?! I can' embed the playlist here. Aaargh!!

Anyways, congratulations David! :)

KR Travelogue Day6a: An Early Morning Debate

Blaring static at 5 AM, I bolted from the bed. Why? Why did I set the alarm at this early?? I racked my brain in two fronts and then remembered the purpose. Oh, Lawrence!! Because we barely talked due to exhaustion when we reached our floor last night, I recalled texting him before I sleep to knock on my room to say goodbye. Oh, please don’t give me that look. Yes, it may have been an extra effort on my part to wake up early just to bid goodbye but of course it’s because I don’t treat him just an ordinary colleague. He’s earned my respect as one of the smart professionals that I’ve worked with, amazed me with his wit whenever we talk and I admit, albeit embarrassingly, that I like him before. But the fact that he’s opened up his love problem to me only meant that our relationship had gone beyond its business context. It’s safe to say that he’s concerned on mine as well as he was persistent on asking my plans last night with Mr. You-Know-Who.

“KC, you know my advice to you is very easy to do. Inviting him for a coffee doesn’t really mean something else. Just have a casual conversation.” He insisted.

“Stop it, please. No, I’m not doing whatever is it that you’re asking me to. Besides, I don’t even know if the guy is single or is already married.” Yeah, now I’m ferreting out information.

“Of course he’s still single!”

“Really?” I said with my eyes wide open digesting this nugget of information he’s just relayed to me. But knowing him and Dien full well, I doubted it. “How can you be so sure?? He was constantly texting someone when we were in Casanoba. Didn’t you notice?”

“He was texting his mother! Of course he’s got his family to worry about!” Again, him explaining to me as though he was talking to a goldfish.

I can’t get my head round this. Never mind that he’s just made me feel dumb again. Sometimes, I just really like Lawrence. Haha!! It had irritated me that if there’s an award for Most Friendly in the conference, it would have to be given to him but who cares?? Look who’s just benefited from his schmoozing . Haha!!

I called up the receptionist to connect me to the next room but no one’s answering. He’s gone!! Maybe he’s having his breakfast now. I considered going down to look for him but I looked at my PJs and decided against it. Well maybe I can face him in this room in this look even with my night cream on but with other people?? No way!!

I sprawled myself in the bed assessing all of my options. Honestly, I briefly considered last night sharing an early breakfast with him but it would just spoil my chance of seeing for the last time the only person that I truly miss – the very essence of my existence. Hahaha!! Everybody’s out on their own now and unless I called Samuel on what time he’s going to have his breakfast - which I really couldn’t imagine myself doing not even prank calling him - the only way to see him is to strategically (yep, you bet that’s the term haha!) plan the time to consume this free meal. Lots of thinking to do later, I better get myself more sleep. I temporarily closed my eyes and argued that Lawrence will understand. Well it’s not like he asked me to do it, I was just being insistent on seeing him. And I slept once more.

An hour and a half later, I was greeted with a very nice patch of sunshine in my room. Good morning Seoul!! :) I stood by my window and took in the sight that stood before me. Mountains and trees in Seoul?? Why do I feel like I’m still in the suburbs??

I checked my phone and saw a message from Lawrence instructing me and Dien on how to get to the airport from the hotel. How thoughtful!! I ignored that feeling of guilt for not even offering to have a breakfast with him; I’ve got one more thing to worry about. I checked the breakfast coupon and it says that it’s valid ‘til nine in the morning. It’s already 7 AM and the earliest time to make it downstairs (considering the long bath and dressing up) would be an hour later. I just hope he’s not the type who’s having his breakfast very early else I’ll lose it. For a moment I thought about going down every 30 minutes or so just to check if he’s already in there (haha!), but that would be really desperate. An hour before the validity time, I think that’s sound enough.

It didn’t really take long for me to dress up. I just donned a black body-hugging top, dark blue skinny jeans and my ankle-length boots and I was ready to strut myself down the dining area; keeping my fingers crossed that I’ll find him. Just this last time, please. Just one last chance.

(continue)

Vested Interest

Another reason to love the rain: layering! :) You know me, I have this obsession of going thematic on a week and last week was about VESTS!! :P I consider it a defining point of my identity. Hahaha!!

an ordinary Tuesday at work

friday training at Microsoft

a very slight hint of my dimple :P with Angela & Joy

saturday blues

grape shake on a rainy Saturday

it's Sam's treat at Italianni's. Thanks Sam! Missed ya! :)

the love council :P

Yup, the love council. Love the term. The same trio that consults each other for love problems. Hey, maybe we should put up our own love clinic. Hahaha! But since I'm not allowed to divulge nor give any hint of what that meeting was about, I would just like to guarantee you guys that it's not about me. Hahaha!! :P Sam, we're still hopeful. :)

And to gear up for the rainy season, tada......hihi!

My yellow trench. Woot!! Now you know what the next theme would be. :P

KR Travelogue Day5h: The Conversationalist, Bow!!

The old man whom Lawrence was talking to stood up and the latter motioned for us to follow them. Hmm, I wonder what Lawrence is looking for. Prickled with intrigue, I hurried up to catch up with them. Once beside Lawrence, I was able to confirm that niggling feeling that the man was leading us into another money changer. Ggggreaaa----NO!! I don’t want to raise my hopes again. For all I know it could be another closed one.

Three minutes of walking in that cold and gray December night and I noticed that we’re heading towards one of the most decorated malls of Dong Dae Mun. Hey, this is the very first one we entered and no one from here was able to point us to what we’re looking for. But when they pushed the glass door open and I saw that white stall on the left with a lady in there, my heart surged. Yes, it’s an OPEN money changer!!

That man was an absolute saint!! It was hard to believe that I’d only met him that time – not minding the fact that he’s a touch over sixty or so – because I thought I was in love with him. Hahaha!! I checked the wall clock and it said it’s 11 PM. Oh goodness, where have we been going all this time?? I turned around to thank the old man but he’s gone. I thought he’d just spread out his wings and flew away. Really, he’s heaven sent. Ü

With thousands of dollars popping in my wallet, I can feel overexcitement rising through me. It’s true when they say, there’s light at the end of the tunnel or that there’s a rainbow after the storm. Wahaha!! Forget Samuel, I’m going to go shopping!! Get ready!! :P

Like I said, we already made a quick round on this first floor earlier and while it’s true I found lots of interesting clothes, they’re all too winter-y. Like, it’s not gonna be useful for the Philippine weather – even in the coldest December. Hello, stylish trench coats!! Although I promised myself that I will buy a very Korean-ish top to serve as a remembrance from this fashionable country, I want to buy first for my aunts, moms and friends. How thoughtful. ^_^ Up we made it into the 2nd floor and I noticed that it is still a women’s clothes section. I’ve inspected each and every store but still I can’t find anything. If there’s any, they’re way too expensive. Hehe. Lawrence and Dien have been closely ambling behind me and in all fairness they were very patient with me. Surely, they’ve already lived through their girlfriend’s shopping moments and the scrupulousness of it all. :P I noticed I’ve been quiet all the while (Gee, I didn’t realize I was that serious when shopping haha!!) so I tried to open up some conversation specially when we passed by a cosmetics section.

“You know what I’m so curious why Koreans have a lot of these beauty cosmetics – moisturizers and all. They don’t have to – they already have great skins!” Even in my words there’s no denying that I’m irritated that these races (Chinese and Koreans) have very great skin. I mean come on, I’m an Asian too. :P

The two slid into muteness probably in agreement or still reeling from what I said.

“But of course they need these moisturizers!! It’s the weather!! It’s not good for their skin!” Lawrence explained to me as though I’m a complete moron.

Oh right!! Why haven’t I thought of that??

“So why haven’t you chosen anything yet?” Lawrence asked.

“I don’t know. There are really a lot of stuffs I like but then I can’t really give them to my friends back home you know. For example, this cloth (pointing to a wool coat). This will have to undergo dry cleaning in the Phils in order to get clean and that’s very expensive. They can’t appreciate that. Now I’m wondering how Koreans go about cleaning their clothes. I mean if it’s always in the form of dry cleaning then that’s not good.”

“For sure they’ve devised some ways in order to clean their clothes maybe dry cleaning is cheaper here I don’t know. But for sure they’ve got it figured out.” Lawrence confidently replied.

Strike two!! I’m pissed. He’s been making me feel like a moron and I hate it – but somehow I liked it. Weird.

“You know what, I hate you!! I hate it when you’ve got the answers to all my questions!” Oops, I hadn’t meant to say it aloud but it had slipped. Besides, I was enjoying that moment. :P

“And you know what also, you can ask me anything under the sun and I can probably explain it all to you. But there’s only one thing I cannot understand – PMS!” Dien slightly amused watching this dog-cat fireworks show. :P

Hmm, witty reply!! I’m impressed!! I smiled and I wasn’t able to counteract anymore. I recalled the reason why I liked this guy before. Yeah, you shouldn’t have missed my SG travelogue. :P His amazing wit made me realize how important it is to find someone who’s more than what the looks could offer. Someone whom you can just talk to or debate with for long hours with just about any topic under the sun. Someone who can even make me feel dumb and yet I won’t care two hoots about it. But then I remembered also what I found out about him last Monday (Day 1) and I was certain it can’t be him. Nope, can’t be.

If my memory served me right, 3rd floor was surprisingly for the men’s wear. I don’t know since when was this coz I know for a fact that all malls in the Philippines dedicate their first floors to men. 4th floor – babies section. 5th floor – accessories and yet I came out with none from there. No fairly priced bags for Mom and Tita, boohoo!! 6th – fabrics and 7th – souvenirs section. We stayed here longer coz Lawrence wants to finish his gift list. He’s already leaving at 6 AM tomorrow. We found some Samsung chocolates!!! And I walked away with a very cute mirror for my girlfriend Lisa and űber-cute figurines as well that I’ve been hesitating to buy a while ago at Everland coz of its price. How cute are they?? Very much inspired by one of my favorite Korean drama – Goong (Princess Hours). Instead of 25,000 KRW in Everland, I got it for 14,000 KRW here. :P Funny how I've got too much money in my hands and I'm being tight-fisted about it.

2nd floor

as to how yummy are these - i can't tell. I didn't buy. :P

my very cute figurines

I thought I can still go back to the street stalls I found a while ago but I have to be considerate. It’s past 12 when we left the mall and Lawrence had to be up in about 4 hours later. While I was certain that the poor navigator me can manage alone, the weather made it impossible. Beside's I've got a whole day tomorrow. Taxis here are giving fixed rates at nights like this (and you thought extortionate taxi drivers exist only in the Phils?) and after many tries Lawrence yielded to this black cab just so we can all have our rest from this tiresome day. Because of exhaustion, I wasn’t able to give him my goodbye hug before he went into his room which is just next to mine and after doing my night regimen, I was out like a light.

(continue)

Rackets

Been hanging out with Chek and Lem lately and doing so gave me a glimpse on their lives as models(?!?!). Actually, they call themselves professional bummers. Hehe. Instead of having a steady 8-5 office jobs, they generate income by engaging in these activities which they aptly termed as rackets/ rakets.

Last Wednesday, my brother Lem invited me to watch what he originally thought of was a fashion show. We were at Teatrino Greenhills like 3 hrs before the program (call time for models are early) only to find out that it was just another product launch. Nevertheless, it called for some girlbonding moment with Chek as Lem gets himself dressed and made up in the dressing room. And what a coincidence that the product happened to be a chipset that runs on an Intel 45nm platform, the very product of my previous company. Haha!! While Chek and I were hamming it up for the photographers, I allowed myself for a moment to feel like a socialite whose role is to attend activities like these. Ambisyosa, haha!! Unlike our launches, I found the event dull and boring. I mean, it doesn’t even measure to our affairs. :P Maybe, it’s the product itself or something wrong with the program. Come on, what’s with discussing the history of chipsets in the crowd?? The only time everybody paid attention was the ramp and the stand-up comedy of some local sexy actresses. :P

Bjorn and Lem for Clear, ahaha!!

dark angels, wehehe

and the respective supportive girlfriends, wahaha..I wish!!! :P

And I digress. Seriously, sometimes we look at it as though they're so blessed since they just have to flash a killer smile; strike a pose or do the catwalk and doughs are already coming their way. But it wasn’t that easy. Like the show ended around 10 PM but we left very late because of the photo-op. Like, all the women in the crowd wants to have a pic with Cheeseburger boy and the equally hunky Bjorn. Ok, I’m not going to gush. I said I’m not going to gush. Hahaha!!! The early call time, the baring of your body, the putting up with the people and the long wait are sometimes not worth it especially when the TF (talent fee) for the show will be cut to some percentage by the talent agent. Lem said that they usually choose events to participate into but then sometimes they also have to give way to others chosen by the agents to pay the debt of gratitude.

Samsung held another music phones launch in Absinth at Greenbelt 3. I just dropped by for about 10 minutes and left. Man, that place needs serious air-conditioning. Lem, Chek and I stayed at Cena instead. That’s where I met the competitors: fly-in male supermodels from Brazil that’s landing most of the TV commercials nowadays. Although I said they’re contenders, Lem has nothing against them as they all belong to the same agency. And really, how could he when they all look jaw-dropping up close. My face must’ve betrayed me for resisting gushing when I shook their hands. Hahaha!! I tried really hard, I swear!! :D

At 1 AM, we’re bound to go home but another talent agent came. Lem said that this agent gave Chek a lot of projects and has more to offer so accompanying him is their way of establishing a rapport. Another thing is that this agent will give us free access to the most happening clubs in town. Hmm, did I hear Emba and Alchemy? Of course, we’re not going home yet. Hahaha!! So we went up to Absinth to catch the program but unfortunately, the show has ended. In all fairness, Tony is a funny person and we instantly jelled the moment Brazilian models were mentioned. :P

playing with Tony's shades

Tony, Richard, Hanna, Chek, Lem and Moi

Mwah!

Because according to Abby our company's PR person, I wasn't able to "maximize" Mang Manny our company's photographer, I decided to do it on my own. Very poor backdrop, haha!!

Whether you're someone who's making money out of your beautiful face or works your a** off in your company, money is really hard to earn these days. Hay..

Vanity 101: i-Lash Extensions :P

I had my eyelashes extended last Saturday. And I LOVE THE RESULT!! ☻I can say that the process was very intricate although my eyes were shut for 2 SOLID hours!! Imagine, sticking piece by piece of eyelashes onto the edge of your eyelids!! Thankfully, the couch was comfortable (I slept and dreamt during the 1st hour, haha!!) and the staffs are friendly and sensitive to their customer’s needs. Overall, it was a pleasurable experience. Definitely, this calls for some photo-op:

For my girlfriends out there who wants to have their eyelashes done, you can visit their salon in Greenhills. :) Please don’t forget to put my name in the “referred by” space as I’m going to need the discounts for my re-touch in the future. :P

On a completely different note, I read in one of the latest magazines in the office that sheer is making a comeback in fashion. So for yesterday, I took out my simple LWD and wore it to the church for the first time. I bought this in one of the This Fashion boutiques in SG during my first visit last August. Yep, heard it right, not this recent trip. And if it’s an indication to you that I have too much dress, FINE!! I love the simplicity.

However, there were some unexpected guests like the family of the guy whom I had a monstrous crush on way back in high school. The parents - who after transferring to Bahrain some 4 years ago - sort of wished that their son should’ve chosen “yours truly” instead of the current. Aarggh!! Mae, you didn’t warn me that they’re visiting. :P Whatev, past is past. Guy is still a loser for not choosing me. Wahaha, can you sense some bitterness here?? Hahaha. Kidding. Anyways, I still wish the guy his happiness. Still, I wished I picked another dress.:P

25 Restau In A Day Part2: Serendra

When I first stepped onto this very posh place called Serendra a year ago, I asked myself if will there come a time that I will be proud and confess that I’ve fine-dined in all the classy restaurants here. Actually, I resolved that at the tender age of 28, I will be able to do that. But who would’ve thought that I will be given the chance to do it all in ONE DAY!! Well, almost. Almost!! Take a close look at our spot pass for this 3rd leg:

the spot pass

See?? It’s incomplete. :( It’s almost 5 PM when we started invading Serendra and Lisa and I were too full, too sated and too stuffed to taste all these posh restaurants have got to offer. Our first stop was at: Portico. Hmm, they made us taste their yummy “Pork Barrel”. Was it good?? Man, it was yummy and crunchy!! But I’m cutting my review of Portico here coz we’re absolutely coming back to spend Lisa’s day here. :P We were given gift certificates that’s more than enough I think for a group of five here. :) How great was that? We get to taste food and come back next time. Really, big thank you to spot.ph for this opportunity.

crunchy pork barrel

After this, the group was divided into two and only the five of us are left: 2 BFFs with Karl our marshal. We next hopped onto Culliere. I will be praising to high heavens one stuff that I tried here: their MILKSHAKES!!! It was Sooooooo Gooooood!!! Their milkshakes bring all the boys to the yard……makes me wanna sing!! :P I haven’t inquired on the price though but I will definitely spend some bucks here for a dessert next time. What do ya think Liz? :P

milkshakes - must try

Well, it must be the milkshakes coz I wasn’t able to try the pork here in Mamou. :( Too bad!! Anyways, I was able to take a group pic of us bloggers. The other pair of BFFs are Mica and Maki. Cute don’t ya think?? Maybe Lisa should be nicknamed CK afterall. Wahaha!!

2 BFFs and a marshal

Time for some Vietnamese cuisine at Zao!! The staffs here were insistent on trying their pomelo salad!! First time to hear it so I poked one and I can say it’s a nice new try. I heard some people hate the word NICE coz it’s such a vague word. But I’m really sorry I can’t elaborate and explain it all by just tasting one slice of pomelo. Right?? But pomelo lovers out there can go and try this. :) Well, okay I said I’m already bloated but it was pure curiosity alone that made me try their soup. I often wondered if it’s sweet coz I heard from Dien that Vietnamese like sweet foods. According to them, they have sugar served on the table as condiments and dash it away on their food. On second thoughts though, who would like a sugary soup?? Stupid, haha!! But of course, it’s still spicy!! Now I wonder what do Vietnamese call their soup?? I mean if Koreans have Jamfong and Thais have Tom Yam, what’s theirs?? Dien, are you still reading my blog?? Haha!! Will Lucky Me release their Vietnamese version of noodles??

Vietnamese palate

Our marshal left us to do the food tasting on our own after this. But since we’re not familiar as to where the other bistros are, we felt like we were in Amazing Race, the fine dining version. Hehe. One more thing, I just noticed that Lisa and I have this talent of being automatons. We instantly and seamlessly upgrade from our usual palengkera (tactless marketers) to sosyalera (educated socialites) whenever the situation requires of it. Haha!! Or maybe it’s only me that is purely palengkera. :P

Our last stop was at Xocolat! Anything chocolatey, yum!! Below was the plate served to us. A tomato-based something mixed with brownie and thick Spanish hot choco, that ain’t bad either!! :)

hot choco, brownie and a tomato pastry

And we give up!! There’s a lot more unsigned in our pass but we had to let go of them. Sad. We just took some take out from the very famous Sonja’s cupcake – my first time to try was at home. I’m not much a fan of cupcakes before but I now am. :P

Sonja's cupcake

We may have not finished it all, but 4 years is still a lot of time to complete it. Agree?? :)

the very posh condos at Serendra

KR Travelogue Day5g: A Roller Coaster of Emotions

Let me open up this chapter with a little short story on, earrings. :P You see, for the 2.5 years that I worked for Intel, I lost quite a number of them. There’s the other pair of my white gold circle (given to me by my Tita), a white pearl, a flowery stud (from Bangkok again a gift from my same Tita), a black chandelier and so on. The reason for the loss is not robbery, misplacement or whatsoever, just purely negligence on my part. I don’t know why I never learned from my first loss.

It was a Friday after work, 3 steps away from where I stepped down from our company shuttle service; I inspected myself and found the left pair missing. A review of my previous actions revealed that I slept in the bus with my head tilted to the next vacant seat probably the reason why the earring got loose and fell. I tried to make some corrective actions after this but how can I? I always find myself waking up just in time to where I’m supposed to drop off (what with the 7 am sked and well, tiresome load) and I am too hurried packing my things to even notice myself. That’s how sweet my life was before. :P

If there’s one thing I badly needed as a replacement for all those I lost, it would have to be my black chandelier. My black dresses seemed “bare” without a nice dangling pair that hung from my ears. For the last 8 months I’ve been searching for something that would match the stylishness of that I lost but I was unsuccessful. Hence, when I saw an earrings stall with words SALE on it in Dong Dae Mun, I asked the guys to excuse me for a while and just wait for me on the end of the street so they can make way for the other women who were all on the rage on the store as well. Among the arrays of earrings displayed, I found this very charming pair with a diamond-shape cut of black gem in the middle (I don’t think it’s onyx) and it has a dangling gem of the same stone in the shape of a raindrop for a price of 5,000 KRW. It was a recherché. That was my night’s first surge of pure joy. I may not have enough money to buy all the nice things here but atleast I bought something for myself before we leave. I’m contented. Even with the misery of this night, I know how to feel that word. :P

I instantly spotted Dien and Lawrence among the sea of people waiting for me on the corner. I can’t help beaming as I walk towards them. I was so proud with my purchase and I want to show it to them as though I’m a child who just received a star award in her class. About two steps away from them,

“Hey guys! Look at what I bought.” I was about to pull off the pair from my pocket when,

“KC, we saw Samuel, “ – heart stoppage – “He passed by!!”

“Huuwaaaattt??? WHERE????” I didn’t wait for their answer, swiveled my head to the left, to the right (to almost a full 360 degrees actually) trying to find that face that stands out among the crowd, that same face I’ve been longing to see. But there’s none.

When at last I saw the two conniving guys smiling, I felt my cheeks stain pink and decided to hate myself for falling into their blarney. Aaargh, these MEN!! How could they do this to me? How can they be so bloody obtuse?? How dare of them to go and play with my emotions?? Didn’t they know how crestfallen I already am being penniless and Samuel-less?? Some guys can be just plain INSENSITIVE!! I gave them each my murderous glance and proceeded uttering my most meant I hate yous in the world. I felt like giving them additional blows using my bag when Lawrence explained that they really saw Samuel. He was with Massy and according to him he looked for me. Before I further burst into the correct emotions, I made him swear up and down that it’s true. And yes, it is.

The ground felt like wobbling beneath me. This news was just another ingredient to add to my already pathetic stew of emotions. I mean there I was, asking a sign from above – which I rarely do – if there’s something like a grand plan for the two of us and maybe that was the answer to it being presented before me and all but where was I??? Where was I?? There I was in pursuit of a much priced possession, my so-called precious earrings???? I don’t want them anymore!! I want to throw it away; I want to run away and look for him, I want to…I want to cry!! Waaaaahhh!!! =,((

But wait. I know this scene. I’ve seen this a hundred times before in the movies and drama series. It’s that same scene when Jasmine and Julian of My Girl were about to meet in the 63rd floor of the tallest building in Seoul. Just in time that the guy made it up there and walked out of the lift, was the same time that the door opened for the girl to go down. Geese, there are hundreds of instances like this and I don’t know why the one which my brain filtered had to be the one that matches the current setting, Korea!! But that’s not the point. The gist here is that, these stories end up in a happy ending. Right??? Am I right?? I know there will be. I’ve just got to believe in it.

One guy told me before not to compare my lovelife with those in the movies. That it’s not something directed to capture the audience’s emotion with its climaxes and the they-live-happily-ever-afters. I know he’s correct but what can I do? I’m such a hopeless romantic!! *sigh*

Once again I snapped and noticed that the two are already a few steps away from me. Lawrence was talking to an old man and Dien was inspecting on some items for his girlfriend from the same underpass we passed by two hours ago. Really, I wanted to be subtle about it but there’s no way doing it than be callous-faced about it.

“Uhmmm Dien, did Samuel really look for me??” Please say yes. Please say yes.

“Oh yes!!” Hope sprang eternal. “You can even ask him about it tomorrow.” Dien added.

Duh?!?! As if I'm really going to confirm it to him. I'm not even sure if we'll still see each other again. I mean yes, we're all staying in the same hotel but there are no more trainings or any scheduled activities left for us. We're all on our own. How?? But there's something about the way Dien mentioned tomorrow that made me anticipate it in a new light. It's like a strong conviction that we'll really meet again. Maybe it's the happy ending anticipation. Maybe, just maybe........

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A Fruitful Saturday: RAIN and TOPSHOP OVERLOAD!!!

Unless there’s something happening on a Saturday (beach, religious conventions, day out with friends, etc.), you will never find me awake in its early morning. Like I said, most of it is dedicated to sleeping and my parents have grudgingly accepted this fact that I wasn’t of help to the house (well atleast I know they prefer it that way rather than me being on a constant date on a Saturday). :P But yesterday was different and was definitely worth blogging about.

At 7 AM, I was already awake and decided to do my supposed to be Sunday religious service. I think this was the primary reason why my day started out right. :P

Around 10AM – 12 NN, I decided to do my laundry which again is usually done on a Sunday night. Okay, Will, happy now? I just remembered your comment here. :P

12:00 NN – 3:00 PM. Had a hearty lunch. Ok, I’m not really a fan of my mom’s Tinolang Manok but the coconut juice really made it for me. Watched TV and got some shuteye.

3:30 PM was when I left the house for Gym. With the sizzling heat of the sun, I donned a very refreshing outfit and right after I closed our gate, it started to RAIN!!! And it was a heavy downpour. For the n raise to the 32nd power, I LOVE RAIN!!! It’s one of my life’s simple pleasures specially the unexpected ones. 4 days ago, I discovered my latest favorite song, my LSS (Last Song Syndrome): Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield. So what happened was I put on my earphone, set it to the highest volume, opened my umbrella and walked in the streets with the song played repeatedly. I love that MOMENT!! It was a Youtube one!! :P I felt like throwing away my umbrella, sing out loud and dance to the music. Haha!! I would love to do that, only there are people around. :P I’m putting the song and my favorite part of the lyrics here:

Feel the rain on your skin No one else can feel it for you Only you can let it in No one else No one else Can speak the words in your lips Drench yourself in words unspoken Live your life with arms wide open Today is where your book begins The rest is still unwritten.


Aaaah, nice message. :)

5:30 – 7:30 PM, DANCING!!! Ü Finally, I managed to memorize the steps, attending a launching was all it took. I’ve finally released my inhibition, haha!! Now I can be brave to be infront of the class or challenge any pros out there. Kiddin’ about the latter part, haha!! Also after that, I did some work out. I admit that the Stepper equipment is not my strong suit before. I hated it in fact but yesterday I’ve come to love it. :)

7:30 PM – 9:30 PM TOPSHOP OVERLOAD!!!! I’ve been lingering to this shop for the past weeks when I saw the words: SALE, 50% OFF, buy one take one. I tried some dresses, vests, tank tops but for some reasons didn’t really purchase them. The words weren't registering themselves in my brain. Yesterday, I talked to the saleslady and clarified the sale. What I understood was that when you get two items, the one with the highest price will be paid and the other would be free. Wow, that was awesome. I can be slow off the mark sometimes, huh?? So when I first made my first pair (yep, first) and the bill came out to be around Php600, I was like "Huh? Something’s really wrong here." When I inquired (yes, I’m honest. Haha!), I learned that in the 2 pairs, the highest priced one will also be discounted to a half!! Not only I am slow off the mark, I’m a complete moron!! What have I done lingering to this shop before?? Now the dresses I fitted are now gone!! My heart panicked and I started picking up the vests I’ve been yearning to buy ever since I laid foot on that store. In fact, I feel like trying on every assortment of dress in there (hahaha!!!). Good thing, even if I’m a moron when it comes to understanding basic English (hehehe), it was nevertheless compensated with my math computation. The technique here is to get a pair with almost the same price. The 2k worth of my four items could’ve been higher had I made the wrong combination. 2k for 4 items!!! The highly priced one is even higher than that, NOW THAT’S A STEAL!!!

corporates, night-outs, casual mix

9:00 PM – 11:00 PM Facial service. There’s supposed to be a night out with Lisa but she once again backed out. Yes, it was my intention to make it bold. Haha!!

Now this is what I call a fruitful and balanced day. Lots of things can really be accomplished when you start your day early. Of course in my logical mind I know that, it’s just that I’m too tired on the 5 day workweek and Saturday has been my only rest. This must definitely become a routine, if only INSOMNIA would leave me permanently. :P

KR Travlogue Day5f: Penniless in the Streets of Seoul

Tell me, who needs a guy when a girl can do shopping??? Right. That’s the spirit girl, I told myself. A few walks away from the restaurant landed me to my very first purchase in Dong Dae Mun. This place is very much like Divisoria in the Philippines with night black market – only cleaner and colder. The item is a cute headdress – same one that I’ve been trying on in Everland but was hesitating to buy due to its extortionate price – which I intend to give to Tita Millet as a thank you gift for lending me the matching spotted neckwear. I’ve got hundreds of US dollars here in my wallet purely earmarked for shopping – hence the use of my personal credit card in Best Western Hotel in Gumi. But of course, it’s a city of fashionable people and surely there’s lots of fab finds! Now if we could only find some money exchange.

Our first few queries with the street people was exasperating. They simply couldn’t understand us. Some would swing their head left and right, some would just smile at us, others would wave their hands that gestures NO (as though we’re “special offer” agents) and others would answer in Korean that says I don’t understand you – atleast that’s how I interpreted it. The three of us decided to cross the other side via an underpass and see what we can get from there. There are also stalls in the underpass selling different merchandise and however willing and decided I am to ask each and every person until I can find one that can point us what we’re asking; Lawrence advised that we just ask in the mall. There’s a bigger chance of someone versed in English there. I acquiesced to his suggestion. It’s a night market anyway and there’s no need to hurry.

On the streets of the other side, I can already see items worth buying. For example, there’s this trendy top that sells at 20,000 KRW and there’s a nice bag that my mom would probably like – although I know I already got her a bag from my last trip – but I can’t buy them yet. Out of the hundred stalls spread on Dong Dae Mun, I’m taking a clear picture of the stalls and I am registering them carefully in my brain so that I can come back for it later.

The malls here are very much like that of 168 in Divisoria. No high-end boutique or whatsoever, just rows and rows of stalls that sell what else but CLOTHES!!! No wonder why even if it’s just a Thursday, and a night no less, lots of women are still going shopping. Good thing, Lawrence has thing for fashion, nothing new in there, and Dien’s looking for a nice dress for his girlfriend so I can roam around. :P But honestly, seeing all these clothes just makes me all fascinated and depressed at the same time. Imagine, there’s a whole lot of nice things to buy and I simply can’t. Even putting on a Becky Bloomwood mode is not applicable, no credit cards allowed. :( In this particular mall, still no one could comprehend us. At that moment, I could’ve given up my Excellence in Languages award in high school just to have a basic knowledge of the Korean language!! Who needs to be outstanding in English when I can’t use it in here???????????

Then my brain clicked. I realized that the way we ask question is too profound. Hi, do you know where we can find a money exchange?? Wow, how very deep! I suggested we modify them into something with words like: Change dollars to won. There!! Surely, they must’ve heard about these currencies!! We walked off briskly down the road onto the second mall as the bitter cold night was getting unbearable – even with my extra coat on!!

So instead of roaming around in search of dresses, Lawrence – whose need to shop is more pressing since he’s leaving early in the morning tomorrow – immediately asked one of the storekeepers of a food shop. I was expecting a negative reaction but instead:

“Aaah, chain ja!! Chain ja!!” exclaimed the old man with his right pointing finger turned upward.

For once, this situation would strike me comical but I managed to maintain a modicum of respect and suppressed my giggle. He gave us directions in Pidgin English on where to turn downstairs with matching hand gestures – which we followed carefully – only to find out that there’s indeed a money changer but it is already closed. :(

No, this can’t be happening. And a horrible thought wormed in: could it be possible that there are money changers around but they’re all closed by now?? Oh, NO!!! It can’t be. But Lawrence was ever encouraging to say that we can try onto the next.

As for the next mall, the guy that was the owner of a jeans store, instructed us on where to locate a money exchange outside. I was seized by sudden hope with the thought that it’s not within the mall and pictured a scene of money exchangers juxtaposed with each other just like what my mom and I used to visit when I was still young – in Ermita!!! We can even choose which one gives the highest rate!! But to our dismay, there’s only one in there and it is also CLOSED!!!

On the way to our third mall, we saw some policemen in suits and approached one of them. He pointed us to one of his colleagues who’s very proficient in English. He told us that money exchangers are all closed by now. I wasn’t prepared for this cold, hard truth. I know it’s just a lame excuse to the fact that they are policemen but they couldn’t even point one more money exchanger!! Yes, I’m being bitter about it. But it was the pity in his words that hammered the truth home. =( Lawrence and Dien seemed to have accepted our fate. After all, the former came here two days earlier than our training and was half done with his shopping while the latter and I as well still have time tomorrow to do it. Well yes I do but the thing is, I might not catch the ones on the streets as my flight is at 10 PM. That’s where I found the cheapest and nice clothes as those in the malls are a bit pricey. We stopped by this huge electric fan with burning coals in it to keep us warm before I requested to try on this last mall. Hardly have I been taking note of the names of these malls to differentiate them from each other.

We only tried on the 1st floor and the two guys stopped at a certain store to check out a dress. Lawrence was giving tips on what style would best fit a girl by asking Dien’s girlfriend’s physique when I left them both for a while to approach the information area. There’s a pretty Korean lady in the desk and I charmingly asked:

“Hi, do you have a money changer here in this mall?” I didn’t see the need to say anymore dollars to won as I see INFORMATION could’ve just been translated into Korean right?

And I was right coz she spoke to me in English. I repeat, IN PURE ENGLISH!!

“Sorry, I do not understand what you are saying.”

“?!?!” or should I say “Okay, thanks!” was my response biting a sarcasm. Then turned my back on her.

WOW!! With all the misery going on, the truth now is, I want to laugh. How ironic was that????????? As soon as the guys approached me,

“Have I got a story for you guys?” and narrated to them the scenario. After that we all decided to trace back our steps and get cab from the same spot we dropped off two and a half hour earlier.

No Samuel, No Clothes, No Money. What a girl's gotta do?? Take picture! :P What a miserable night!!

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