KR Travelogue Day 6d: This Kiss, This Kiss

Right. There’s no turning back now. The first sight that greeted me once inside the Jongmyo Eternal Shrine was a frozen pond. Obviously, it looks amazing from someone like me who has first seen it and what’s more entertaining is that there are birds splish-splashing on it. Cute!! I grabbed a copy of the pamphlets available in the entrance and started reading.

Jongmyo (this according to my cheat sheet alright) is the royal ancestral shrine of the Joseon dynasty where the tablets of the kings and queens are enshrined and memorial rites are observed in respect of time old Confucian tradition. Hmm, I know that one of my favorite Korean dramas of all time Princess Hours (Goong) took place in the same dynasty but unfortunately this is not the venue of the shoot. :(

Again, one of my goals here in Korea is to visit those shooting venues of my favorite Korean dramas. According to the staff in Insa Dong Information Center, the Geonghulgyung Palace (venue of the drama) is quite far from where we are and what with my limited time today, I couldn’t make it. Same is true for the famous 63 building – one of the highlights of Korean drama My Girl. :(

It was an early afternoon and we continued on walking through the benign sunshine. The air was so cold it was impossible to take off my knitted gloves only occasionally when I am taking pictures. We first went into this library of the palace and while I was in the process of removing my mittens, Samuel passed infront of me and the holder that I use to hung my camera into my arms went with the gloves. Aaaaack, I dropped the camera. Samuel quickly turned around and believing it was his fault, he apologized.

“No, it’s not your fault. It’s okay.” I felt his hand on my elbow and despite the 1°C cold, my trench coat and the thermal wear within, I felt heat.

My god, if he’s gonna hold me like that again then I’ll be more than glad to drop my camera again and again. Wahaha!!

I inspected the poor thing and the first psychic pain came in when I found it scratched!! Oh. My. Gosh. My pink Kodak V803 that I’m still paying monthly is SCRATCHED!! I turned it on and thank goodness it’s still functioning.

“It’s okay?” He asked.

“Yeah. My bad.” I replied. Of course it couldn’t and wouldn’t hurt to be a fluffy-coy.

“I’m really sorry.” And then he gave me one of those puppy-dog looks that could make any living breathing woman forgive any transgression he might ever decide to commit, including any one of the mortal sins. Haaay.

One of the staffs was insistent on us entering this ritual hall. We gave in and saw inside displays of ritual vessels and incense, some hieroglyphics sort of writing on the walls and infront is a huge Samsung LCD showing a clip of how the rites are performed. Samuel asked me to take a pic of him inside. Golly, I have this odd feeling that I will be entranced for hours, maybe days just watching him flash that enormous toothy smile. :) Ka-gwapo!!

antiques

Samuel

Outside, while putting our shoes on, he found this dirty pair of gloves on the floor and joked that he’s tempted to use it. That’s the only time I noticed that he doesn’t have his gloves on. He left it in the hotel. Oh, poor hombre!! Gosh, I’ll happily volunteer to offer my hand and I promise I’ll keep him warm. Hahaha!!

I finally got him talking - a small success but no time to celebrate. While treading that brick-covered central walkway to the Jeongjeon hall, he discussed about how Spain recently changed their monetary unit. I instantly snapped into my investigative journalist mode, racking my brain for quick questions. Anything – just to get this conversation going. I didn’t mind that Esther was being put out of place; I’m loving the solo attention thank you very much. :P

But as fast as it happened, it was over. When we reached the Hall of Everlasting Peace Yeongnyeongjeon, he once again slid back into his serious mode – observing closely the structures, looking for better angles for his shots, and sincerely reading the short lectures. Mind you, he’s studying them as though there’s going to be an exam later!! Not that I find it negative but I felt quite ashamed of myself – all I ever think about is shopping!! So, I decided to match his curiosity level, skimmed through the pamphlets and hope I will beat him in the exams later. :P

But its’ getting frustrating. I’d rather have dibs on his life than know all of these. Or maybe it will be nice learning all of these while having a nice conversation about them. Upon stepping down from that utterly loooooooooong hall, I saw a bird flying and unconsciously crooned “Skyline Pigeon” and stopped only when I saw Esther turn around and smile at me. I laughed, noticing for a short while that I was desperate to impress this stranger. Samuel auto-timed his camera and took pictures of us with the main hall in the background.

Yeongneongjeon

We reached the far end of the palace and made a quick dash for the loo. I was expecting that after this we’d traced back our steps and exit from where we entered. To my chagrin, there’s a special interconnection between this and another palace and Samuel insisted on going. Even without my watch on, I know that the high rise of the sun can only mean it’s already past noon. I was trying to decide whether I was ravenously hungry, utterly frustrated or just plainly exhausted but when I saw that dazzling smile of his, I had no choice but to smile modestly and give in. For crying out loud, how heavily did a girl have to hint around here??? If he wasn’t so damn charming – I repeated this to myself.

For all we know, it’s just a palace of same structures – houses for different members of the palace. I just took pictures and prayed that they will listen to their tummies so that we can eat lunch. At long last, he didn’t ask to gallivant some more. When we saw the entrance of that palace, we all agreed to leave already.

While walking, I noticed (again) that he’s not wearing his eyeglasses on. We had a short chat and I learned that he’s planning to have an eye laser surgery while I told him about persons who’ve successfully done that – my ex being one of them. And I used the exact word – wrong move. Yay!! Afterwards, he and Esther again resumed to their Spanish conversations. L

All of a sudden, I missed Lawrence. He’s the type of person that won’t bore you when you’re together. He’ll keep you entertained on his vast and varied stories on anything. As compared to this guy – this one’s so reserved. But hey he was tall and extremely handsome and sweet and nice and hey, you can’t have everything in life!! I was pretty foolish when it comes to men it goes without saying. I can only rationalize it as hormonal. :P

I studied the situation and I blamed it on the language barrier. Of course I noticed that he’s not that honed in speaking English that’s why he opens up more on Esther. Oh, why didn’t I have a Spanish blood?? Hahaha!! Or maybe it’s the ex thing. I might have given him an impression that I’m still hung up on him. Tsk!! Yeah, maybe that’s it.

It’s about 1 PM when we’re finally ensconced in Pizza Hut. My tongue was so dry it stuck to the roof of my mouth that when I saw my iced tea coming, I immediately sipped on it. Uuuuulk!! It’s the natural tea with ice – I forgot to say lemon iced tea. Yay!! After this, Samuel will visit another place and Esther begged off in my behalf mindful of my flight. She’s a total star!! Samuel and I were seated beside each other and although situations like this can bring me utter bliss – I couldn’t bring myself to knowing that this would be our last moment. I didn’t care that they are still talking in Spanish over the salad and pizza and leaving me with zero understanding of their conversation. I just actually played along by guessing and translating what they said. And most of the time, I was precise!! Although it was quite fun, my heart is still heavy. I don’t want to leave yet. I just want to stay beside him – like this. God, why am I being all of a sudden so dramatic?? When Esther invited me for a retouch in the comfort room, I passed only to savor these few moments of US together. Before we leave, I just had one more seminal thing to do. Took a lungful of air,

“It’s probably the last time I’m gonna see you. Can I have a picture with you?”

Aaaaaaaaack!!! I still can’t believe I said that!! I’m so THICK!! But whatev!! He posed as though he’s a star and is already USED to women asking for photos like this.

A few minutes more and we’re back in the cold outside. He’s headed to the left and we’re going on the other side. I shortly turned around only to spread what was left on my lip gloss before I say my goodbye. That Jonggak street was so noisy with the hustle and bustle of the Korean people in the afternoon. When I faced him he was directly infront of me and was murmuring something, I was stunned and surprised at the same time. I couldn’t make out the words he’s saying.

“……….it was nice to meet you.”

He turned his face forward, kissed me softly on the lips and walked away.

It was one of those deep, longing kisses that stole the breath right out of your body and the sense right out of your brain that left you hanging, hoping and hungering for more.

I was devastated. And his mouth was perfect.

a scene from Princess Hours

(continue)

And More Blah

BAD RECOLLECTIONS (My Moto V3x)

Sleep evading me one night, I got up from my bed and tried to do something productive. The last time I remember this happened, I was able to come up with something fruitful. I filtered my closet and came up with items for a garage sale. Only this time, I was disappointed with the result coz as I was fixing my things, I found my hot pink Moto V3X in my desk. It hasn’t been used for more than a year now and although I’m a loyal Samsung user, I have no plans of selling it. I charged it up to have a quick check of its performance; I inserted a spare SIM card – one of the many ones I use for work.

Surprisingly, the phone still has its stored messages – about a hundred plus of ‘em. Oh goody, probably inspiring quotes that I refused to delete – I thought. Funny how before I used to complain when I don’t receive any message from anyone in a day when now, 2-3 days without a text has just made my life so UTTERLY simple. It has become so normal that there are times when I get pissed whenever I receive forwarded quotes from my contacts who are probably registered to the “unli” texts. It’s become so taxing receiving these quotes that I have probably received 4 or 5 years ago, right?? So sometimes they go straight to the bin. Bad, wehehe. Anyways, I started trawling through each message and although the source indicates only a number and no name (since it’s a different SIM) more or less I had an idea on who were they from. The first half of the messages was fine, really. There were some inspirational quotes from my previous boss, funny ones from friends and the usual morning and night greetings from my Titas. Until I reached those textual conversations and OMG, I couldn’t believe I was reading that from Guy #3 on the Reyna ng Sablay post. Oh how I hate my retentive memory. Hi, can I drop by your house to say hi??; just stay at home so you won’t meet other guys; etc) Those sweet nothings from him just when we were starting to get to know each other. God, I still can’t believe that he’d morphed into the guy that he is now. Sad, sad. Next on the messages were texts from this guy (I Remember the Boy post). Yeah, the Am-boy who’s aged 2 years younger than me. I hate it how he used to come back to me when he’s unattached you know. Sometimes, men can be so damn INSENSITIVE!! Coming to you because they know you're always available. There were also texts from my ex that made me chuckle. It’s so funny how a year ago (we're separated for about 3 years then) but still quarrel like kids over some petty matters. Haha!! Take this: Last text ko na to sayo (my full name), advanced happy bday na lang sa September. I still smile at the thought knowing that we’re sooooo okay now. But lastly, there’s this text from Guy #1 (still from the Reyna ng Sablay post).

“Me too. I thot I can 4get u wen I had my ex. But ftr we broke up its stil u im lukin 4. Im rily hapy 2 cu again n hav d communication we use 2hav b4.”

Waaaaaaaaaahhh!!! It’s the one and only – Mr. Bomalabs. If you’ve seen his previous message, you’ll probably hate me for US being in this state since time immemorial. Sigh, what was I thinking?? Stil u im lukin 4, my bum!! Just when I’m trying to move on and forget all about these, life has its way of presenting it back to you. Life is such a bastard, haha!! I kid. Ű Of course I know it’s bad to dwell on negative things. Instead, it’s better to count my blessings. The past few months, I may have had 3 different mishaps on men BUT, I also gained 3 girlfriends. ŰŰŰ I’ve become closer to Chek, Angela and Joy.

SEEING THE BRIGHTER SIDE

Chek as y’all know is my younger brother’s gf. One sweet girl with a face and body to die for!! We met for a couple of times now and it’s true what she said in one of my comments in Friendster that whenever we’re together, she acts as though she’s the elder sister, haha!! She’s very thoughtful in my current situation and always asks me out for a massage or a shopping, whatever. Ű

The rest of the two gals are my officemates, co-engineers also. I’ve been opening up to then lately on some work issues but who would’ve thought that they would turn out to be my shopping buddies as well?? Haha!! You’ll often see the three of us skipping our lunch and in Greenhills doing a round-up of the current trends and ogling on nice dresses, shoes and other fab finds. :D So who needs a guy when I’ve got loads of friends right?? Please play that Spice Girls song in the background, Love Thing: Now don’t go wasting my time, you’re not the only thing I’ve got on my mind, My friends are with me when you ain’t been around. Yeah that’s the spirit!! :D

But then again bonding with them made me realize one thing: that is to be thankful that I’m unattached right now. I’m not gonna tell you who’s who but both of them have problems in their current relationship. One of them, at the tender age of 23, is already being pressured by the bf and the guy’s parents as well to get married ASAP. It may be a 6-yr long steady relationship, but 23 is still a young age for me and there’s still so much to enjoy. She shares the same sentiments as well. The other one has an 8-yr long relationship but is living on a ROUTINE everyday (e-card sending in the morning and monthly gifts) and what’s worse is that the guy is very insecure and imposes Martial Law-like rules
(i.e. no one of us to be heard in the background during a call – EVEN GIRLS!!). Believe me, that’s just one of them. Hay, ang hirap talaga maging maganda!! Wahaha!!!

ULTIMATE ACCEPTANCE

Lastly I just want to share this higher level of acceptance of mine. I know that as a single, I have to accept doing things on my own but even I had limits. Shopping alone is okay – some girls naturally do it. Eating or dining alone is okay – at times it becomes part of shopping alone. But before there were two things that I’m really reserving doing with someone special – or atleast with friends: trying a new restaurant and watching a movie.

May 31: My first dine-in at Old Spag House in Robinsons Galleria
June 10: My first movie alone, Kung Fu Panda

I can see that pure, unadulterated pity in my friends’ eyes whenever I tell them the story. Please, I don’t deserve it. That same day June 10, I made a quick clean-up of my wallet and I counted the accumulated free movie passes given to us by the company. There are about 14 of them wasted just because I was depending on other people’s availability. I realized I’m being more of a masochist if I pass up on these things because I have no one joining me. Btw, it was fun! :D It has almost got me rolling on the floor laughing. Haha!! But then again, I have to be choosy on the films I’m going for since I don’t want to emerge out of the cinema with tears pooling in my eyes. LOL.

I should’ve done this a long time ago. I was just using the lame excuse of “it’s unsafe for a girl like me” all the while. Nag-eemote na lang ako. Of course, Promenade is a safe place. The last movie I was watching next to a celebrity couple. Yeah, it's safe for famouses like US. Wahaha. Joke. Now I blame myself for the great movies I missed. Anyways, now I can watch at least 2 new flicks per week. How’s that for a change??

Rainy Days and Mondays

...no, unlike in the song they don't make me down. :) In fact, long have I waited to finally wear this:

Weeeeeeee!!! Finally!! I'm so happppppeeeeeeeeeeeee!!! :D

P.S. My heart is still with the victims of the typhoon Frank. (-,-)

KR Travelogue Day6d: Turn-Around

Walk, walk, and walk. We’ve been walking for about 30 mins now but it seems to me that I’ve walked a lifetime. I couldn’t understand why we were already instructed in the Information Center and already have maps in our hand and yet we still can’t find that bloody money exchange!! Well at least for me, it is understandable because whether it’s a techie GPS or just a plain paper map, it wouldn’t matter coz I’m really poor when it comes to directions!! As for the two, I don’t know. It seems that Esther is also depending on Samuel. The people around weren’t helpful either – language barrier. In the end we just relied on our own instincts. It would’ve been fine getting lost and all if we subsist through meaningful conversations between you know - me and him. But there’s none – absolutely zip! =(

Upon strolling, we stumbled upon this Tapgol Park and Samuel suggested we duck our heads into it. There’s payment into the entrance and a quick look inside reminded me of our very own Rizal park. There are a lot of old men inside – some are having their early jogging and group exercises. How very Luneta-like!! But I didn’t see any old women there and suddenly I became afraid especially when there’s an old man who was sizing me up from head down to toe. Even with my sunnies on – yep, I can see there’s nothing so subtle about the way he’s checking me out – until finally he gave me this thumbs up. Either I impressed him with my dressing up or whatever I dunno. I gave him a weak smile in return and hobbled towards my two companions. Phew!! In the center of this park is a 10-story stone pagoda where some men offer their prayers and worship. One was bowing his head as though following a ritual, one was strumming his guitar and another one was singing. And I thought that pagodas are only for the Chinese eh?? That was it for our 1,000 KRW ticket.

(a) my 1st sight of a Starbucks chain in Seoul (b-e) pagodas, the center is the 10-ft one

We exited from the other side and that’s when I saw the ugly side of Seoul – the poor old men sleeping on the outskirts of the park (amidst this cold!!!), a smelly backyard of a restaurant, shabby residences. It was also campaign period and there were vehicles posted with streamers and with speakerphones blaring the name of the electorates and their promises I suppose. But in all fairness, the place is still clean. It made me wonder, will the Phils be a cleaner place if it's this cold?? Hmm...

When we spotted a police station, both of my Spanish-speaking companions approached it to inquire while I looked for some place to rest my freezing butt. Aaah, to be able to bend at the waist and sit. My legs hurt from all this treading and I started to massaged the strain. Then I realized, I am in no flats at all. It’s a 2-inch ankle-length boots. Varicose veins!! Yay!! I bit my nails in the thought. There’s this book that I specially bought for this trip wherein the heroine went for more than an hour walk back to her hotel in her stilettos – she’s in love!! But am I?? The uncertainty gnawed at me.

Even the policemen were of no help, we continued our journey until finally at long last we found this money exchange. While Esther was making her transactions, I talked to Samuel about how the rate here is better than the one we exchanged with last night. He was somehow convinced to exchange more than he intends to. This guy sure looked like one frugal spender. Tsk, tsk!! Conflict of interest, hahaha!!

I was waiting for Esther to suggest we get a taxi but Samuel was already looking at the map planning our next destinations. Hmm, this whole take-charge confidence thing was incredibly sexy!! He was already leading the way on where we should tread on to and at this point I was already hesitating if I should still go with them. You see, today is my shopping day!! But something in my head was telling me to stop. Stop it KC!! All you ever think about is shopping!! How about immersing yourself in some wonderful culture?? And you get to do it with Samuel!! My legs then started to move forward on their own. Left-right, left-right and it stopped only when Esther called after Samuel to enter this souvenir shop.

This woman sure beat me when it comes to shopping. Early this morning, she already told me about the stuffs she bought last night that’s why she ran out of Wons and now she wants to extend her gift-giving to her nieces. Not only is she buying items, she’s also having them gift-wrapped. Samuel and I went on our own exploring the other items in the shop – most of which I already saw in the shop at Everland and in Dong Dae Mun. I felt quite triumphant that the figurines I bought are still cheaper from where I bought. :)

‘Twas past 11 when Esther finished her shopping. I feel so thirsty I could die for a nice glass of an iced tea. I started questioning myself if this is really all worth it. I mean, here I am sacrificing a day of fun-filled shopping just to be with this guy!!! When something caught the corner of my left eye, I turned to the shop and found this very nice dress Ms Sunmi was wearing during the last day of the training. I called after the two and asked them to wait for me as I made my way inside.

I really, really want to buy a dress that will serve as a remembrance of my visit here. Not just any top or a jacket – a dress!! I could wear this in church or in the office. I don’t care if Ms Sunmi already wore it, I. WANT. THIS. DRESS!!

A quick look at the tag made me yelp. It’s priced at a whopping 70,000 KRW. WHOA!! That’s just so expensive. Buying this could mean an all or nothing splurge. And here are my options:

a) Giving in. It would mean I’m totally submitting myself to this guy because simply for the fact that I wouldn’t say goodbye to them and join them wherever they want to go just for the hell of being cultured and everything. No more shopping in Dong Dae Mun – BUT I get to be with Samuel for some speck of a drama.

b) The exact opposite of above. I will leave right now and find an exact substitute of this in Dong Dae Mun (probably a lot cheaper – the lesson of figurines). Goodbye Samuel. =(

Aaargh!! It was so hard to decide. I’m torn between the guy and a dress combo or a no guy but many dresses. God, please give me a sign. I was already staying long and the two might already get impatient outside. When the saleslady shimmered out of nowhere, without quite meaning to, I asked for a size. I suddenly decided to take Option 1 – it seemed to me as a win-win situation. I’ll have only one dress and spend time with the guy.

The saleslady was about to get a smaller size when I realized the hassle of fitting the dress – removing layers and layers of clothing. It was very inconvenient and will take me very long. Heck even peeing can be prevented because of these clothes. I also remembered that this isn’t my plan, I only asked to join the two and it was rude making them wait. I stopped the saleslady and scampered off from the store. *boo hoo*

Okay, I can’t take it anymore. The culture learning can just sod off. I’m going to leave. NOW!! But then again I was hit with one fact. My things are in Esther’s room. It only means that I could not break away from them if I want to shop alone and expect Esther to be back in the hotel just before I leave for my flight. She’s kind I know and I can ask her that favor but modesty got the better of me. So technically, I submitted myself to her – a slave. Waaah! =,(

When we were already infront of the Jongmyo Eternal Shrine, I came to the conclusion. Oh my god. I, (my real name)______, am 24 years old, currently here in Korea and I’m leaving home tonight empty-handed. *sniff sniff*

(continue)

The New Face of Master Eskinol

Overexposed – and he doesn’t like it. Assshuu, if I know he’s loving it. Haha!! I’m talking about my brother’s newest TVC that’s being aired, a facial cleanser for men – Master Eskinol. As you all know, I just blogged last week on his Voice Combo Sandwich here. Well, he need not explain to me the reason for not liking it. Two lead TVCs at a time turns him into a radioactive. It’s the same one as being stereotyped as this and that talent in this TVC (i.e. the ever popular Lumen of Surf detergent). See, sometimes popularity has its disadvantages too. Oh, had I not learned of it before?? Wahaha. Just kidding. Ű

One word – SWEET!! I’m talking ‘bout the quick peck on the lips in the end, haha!! Oops, peace Chek!! Btw, nice TV ad for that creamer. Ű He told me about her partner in that TVC – the Brazilian model that’s gracing a lot of commercials already, Fernanda. With that face and BODY – I couldn’t believe she’s just 18 years old!! Whoa!!

Actually, I’ve seen that TVC about a week ago already and refused to blog it here coz I always catch it being aired in the rival station. So yeah sometimes I have to put up with their shows if I want to see that commercial break. Uuugh!! The fact that his Friendster comments only involve a few who noticed the TVC only means that ABS-CBN is still the best station. Yeba!! Harharhar!!

At times whenever I catch the said two commercials aired back to back on the bus I’m taking on my way home, I couldn’t help my chest puff out with pride. That’s my brother!! I almost want to speak to my seatmate and say “Kapatid ko yan!!”

Yep, he makes me proud. He makes the whole family proud. Sometimes, I just really love my brother. ŰŰŰ

To Be With Their Family

This week saw the departure of my second parents: Tito Boy/Tita Vener and Tito Bet/Tita Millet. They’re not really my uncles and aunts but both parents treat me as if their own daughter.

Last Monday, Tito Bet and Tita Vener (Joy’s uncle and aunt) left for US to be with their daughter who’s already based there. More than being sad, I’m happy for them that their family is going to be complete specially that Tita Vener’s visa was finally approved – after SEVEN tries!! Pic at the airport 4 AM.

This morning on the other hand was the flight of Tito Bet and Tita Millet (Joy’s parents) leaving for Singapore. Yes I’m going to miss them as well but I’m so happy for Joy coz I know how much she misses them. :D Pic at the airport 5 AM.

They might be gone for a long time to recuperate and I’m surely going to miss them. *sigh* But more than that I wish for speedy recovery of Tito Boy (cancer) and Tita Millet (glaucoma). :(

So I’m really sleepy these days at work, hahaha. Funny how this morning I get to tell a friend about them and let me share this story with you as well, haha!! I just realized how they could not treat me as a daughter when in fact; both of them want me for their respective sons. Hahaha!!! I remember this scene one time when we were in Quezon and I got to meet most of their clan. It was an afternoon siesta in the terrace and Tita Vener was ranting to the folks there about this girl that she soooo doesn’t want for her son while Joy and I were just chatting up.

Tita Vener: Blah blah blah…Hindi ba nila alam na c ****** ay para lang kay KC?!?!
Tito Bet almost spewed his coffee on the table.

Gosh, it was really flattering to know that some parents want you for their son. Haha!! Specially that they are the fastidious types. Oh well, I really shouldn’t be that much worried on being an old maid after all. Hahaha. Joke! :P

Mythical Soul Gallery

As promised, I'm coming back with the highlights of the Samsung Soul launch entitled Mythical Soul. Before I proceed with with the pre-event contemplations, allow me to give you the features of the launch first. ;)

1. The phone. As the technical person, I feel responsible to give you some of the phone's features:

- 5 MP phone with AF and VGA camera & Power LED Flash

- Magical Touch by DACP

- Ice Power Technology by Bang & Olufsen

- FM Radio and MP3 player

- HSDPA phone with Full HTML browser

- Bluetooth and USB connectivity

- Document viewer

- Mobile tracker

2. The backdrop. The first thing you'll see upon entrance. So Roman-ish. Is it Doric, Ionic or Corinthian?? Hehe. I forgot already. :P Now who wouldn't want to post before it?

3. The hall. Filled with silver and white decorations. So elegant!!

4. The host. Come on tell me who else would perfectly fit the role?? But of course it's none other than the socialite butterfly herself: Ms. Tessa Prieto Valdez!! Too bad, I wasn't able to have a pic with her. :(

5. Guests. Oh my gosh, she's so fit to be invited. Such a goddess, looking young and dewy Ms Dawn Zulueta. Would you believe she's already in her early forties?? Coz I swear she doesn't look a touch over forty. Maybe I should start taking her endorsed product, Myra 300 e. Wahaha!!

I don't know bout the other two but I looked like the one who's aged forty-something in here. Wahaha!!

6. The PMAP ramp. I'm supposed to partake in here but you know, it's a company violation - moonlighting, hehe - so I left it to my co-models. Hahaha!! I kid, I kid. :D

7. The goody bag. For the previous events, we were lucky to receive give-aways such as a Bulgari set of toiletries, Samsonite duffles and suitcases, Lancome goodies (my current favorite scent Hypnose) but for events like this, Samsung takes it to a higher level. The company generously gave away the Samsung Soul itself. Lucky guests!! Of course, us employees are not included this time but 's ok coz I'm already happy with what I took home, my magical wand!! Haha!! This is such an ingenious idea. Just a metallic rod and four-mini bulbs attached in the end but the guests loved it!! As in!! Some even asked to take home more than one. :D We're talking 'bout socialites here alright?? Hehe. Mine is such a very special use what with the frequent power outage these days. (Geese, what's up with that Meralco, transmission loss, Judy Ann Santos, hellur?!?!)

the phone give-away demo'd by one yummy model, wahaha!!

Hmm, what else?? There's the magic skills demonstration by Eric Bana, the food which I blogged about last time, the serenading of Mr. Richard Poon and oh, the dramz. Haha!! Stay tuned for that. Anyways, more camera whoring here. Click, click. ;)

KR Travelogue Day 6c: Before Sunrise Moment

Brrring. Brrriing. Aaaargh, just when I’m in a hurry. Who could this be?? I walked towards my bed’s sidetable and answered the phone.

It’s Dien. He’s not going to join us anymore. When I asked why, he said he’s going to visit a friend of his living in Seoul.

“Oh, alright. But we’re leaving this hotel together right?” I clearly remember that we have the same time of flight – 10 PM tonight.

“No, I checked my schedule and I was wrong. It’s 8 PM.” He replied.

“What?!?! Good thing you checked again. Anyways, I’ll just tell Esther that you can’t come. Maybe I’ll just see you later. But if not, we’ll still talk in YM right?” There’s no certainty as to whatever will transpire in the next few hours.

After he rang off, I still stood by the bedside; couldn’t help but fantasize with a very special what if. What if, what if Esther cancelled too?? Samuel and I will be left to ourselves to discover Seoul. Weee!! I’m beyond thrilled!! It’s a Before Sunrise moment – one of my most favorite romantic movies. Hihi. But then of course it wouldn’t happen and just even the imagination would be a bit churlish considering that I asked Esther a very special favor. I am to check out already before we embark on our tour and I requested that my things be temporarily transferred to her room. That’s the reason for the rush since I’ve got fifteen minutes left to pack up and you know, prettify myself. Haha!! In fact, some voice within telling me to confirm my flight sked as well but I shrugged it off coz I still have my toiletries clattered around the room.

Anyways, I’m sure it’s 10 PM. Back in the office, I remembered choosing the earliest available flight the day after training – a company policy – 8:10 AM of the daily flights of the Korean Airlines. But since the schedule is somewhat convenient (considering the very “morning” person that I am, hahaha), I had it changed offline after the boss’ approval to the last flight – a habit of mine for my business flight so I could stay more wherever I am going. To be honest, had I only been close to Esther, say Monday, I would’ve called the airlines and have it again deferred to probably tomorrow. Most of the Europeans are leaving either tomorrow or the next (a Sunday). I’m sure she won’t mind. But there’s no point hanging about that now, I’ve to make the most out of this tour today.

I rang Esther to inform her that I’m coming with my bags already. After a quick drop-off, we shuffled aboard the elevator down to the lobby where I made my way to the receptionist. As if on cue, my very handsome date strode down the hall right after I settled my pricey bill. There he stood before us with his brown leather jacket and jeans draped like velvet on his body. He is such an insane turn-on. I, my date and our chaperone (hahaha!!) then went outside to get a cab. It was a crisp and cod morning in Seoul. Prior to that, we asked the bellboy to take us a pic. Ű

(a) restau in the hotel; (b) a temple; (c) Samsung fn. com office; (d) Moi, Samuel and Esther

Not so much has been said during that short trip to Insadong. We were all taking in the very busy Friday streets of Seoul where we spotted more temples, a Samsung office and finally Insadong. The driver just halted on a corner of the street and probably due to incapability of speaking English, gestured as though he’s shooing us off. Haha!! I suggested paying the fare. Gee, what’s up with my generosity today??

Insadong is nothing like I imagined - just a street with different restaurants, stores for different artifacts, specialty items and the like. No clothes – boring!! But ‘s ok. Coz I have Samuel with me (-,-). Not wanting to waste a nanosecond of our time together, I initiated a talk.

“Dien, told me you met each other last night?”

“Yes, in Dong Dae Mun. They said you were buying something.”

“Oh yeah, I was looking for earrings.” It’s confirmed, he looked for me. Weee. I tried hard to suppress a smile from plastering on my face. “So, were you able to buy something?”

“This shirt.” And showed me the one he’s wearing underneath his jacket. Nice one.

“Good for you, I wasn’t able to buy anything last night. We had a hard time looking for money changers. It was already late when we had our money exchanged.” I explained as we walked deeper in the street. Then Esther chimes in that she needs to exchange money. They must’ve seen the look of aghast on my face. Goodness, this could be a repeat of the events last night. Time may be wasted for asking directions alone but I comforted myself knowing that I could get to know him more.

I was right. Some people refused to speak to us while the fruit vendors gesticulated directions that really led to nowhere. If there’s one positive thing about this, we discovered this plaza with very cute statues. It was impossible not to be charmed with these so Samuel and I took some photos.

more sights in Insadong

During the quest for money changers, Samuel and Esther would talk about something in their native language Espanol and I would find myself ambling behind them. Obviously I had zero understanding of what they’re talking about but I was invisible and I didn’t like it. It depressed me. :(

Oh well, he has all the right in this world to break my heart coz he’s one fine specimen of the male specie. Haha!! Now we all know what insidious influence good looks can have on one’s judgement. :P

With some stroke of dumb luck, we laid foot into this street where there is an information center. We scurried inside it this time to accurately ask for directions. Wow, it almost seemed a miracle that the staffs here are eloquent English speakers. We then asked for more interesting places to visit and as always took some more pictures.

There must be something in that information center coz as soon as I stepped out of it, I had a renewed confidence in me. With a sudden shaft of determination, I promised that after this tour, Samuel and I will end up in stitches. Haha!! He’ll be able to see my funny side and I’ll be able to coax a laugh or two out of him. Aah, just to see him smile. :) Just wait, just wait. :P

(continue)

Samsung Soul Launch

One magical evening for one special phone: Samsung Soul. Or for technical people like me, the SGH-U900. This will be just a quick recount of "my" happenings last night. What I truly appreciate on our events like these are their brilliant concepts!! If you happened to watch the Soul's TV commercial then you'll probably have an idea on the concept, but if not then let the photo below clue you in: Ű

i look fat here but I think I'll make a nice fairy, ayt??Ű

Aylaveet!! It's one big dream of mine to dress up like a fairy. Weee!!! The Rigodon Ballroom of the Peninsula Manila was transformed into one huge fairyland!! Enchanting!! Ű Pictures will be featured in my second installment of this event as Kuya Manny's (official photog) aren't available yet. I'm just really excited to tell you and at the same time still thrilled that I met Richard Poon (is it safe to say he's our local Michael Buble?). He's cute!!! I love him na. Hahaha!!

we're perfect..hahaha!!!

I also met a goddess, Dawn Zulueta. Omigosh, wait for the pics on Tuesday ayt?? Let me blog temporarily for now about the glorious food served for the event. And let's just forget their long French culinary names and everything alright?? Hehe.

The appetizer:

Fish or beef?? Definitely fish. Haha!!

And this is one ultimate proof of how Samsung lavishly spends for events like this. Take a good look at the plate!! Sprayed with Samsung Logo!! This is craziness!! The dishwashers are going to hate us for this, hahaha!!

Praline ice cream, yummy!! Fattening, haha!!

My make-up courtesy of Mary Pauline Buendia branch: Ű

You may see a nice smile above but wait 'til you hear the drama behind all this. Just wait, haha!!

Tytana, special message for you. Remember how pushy you were on me attending the event because you said something about meeting the love of your life?? Oh em gee, I thought about that when I received this text from an anonymous person last night:

"Great 2 c u again. Nice dress. Nite. Ingat."

Gosh, I so hope you're not right coz later that night I learned who he is. Waaah Tyts, I am so not going to tell you who he is. I'll keep you intrigued. Wahaha!! And to my dear Lizzie, I am so starting to believe you on calling me Ms International, coz I swear he's not a Filipino. And that's my clue for you. Hahaha!!

Have a happy weekend y'all!! Ű

Love is Scentless

Some say love is blind; others say love is like wildflowers. And since I can’t come up with my own quote yet (^_^), I would have to agree with the Bible that love is the perfect bond of union. But for this friend of my mine, LOVE IS SCENTLESS!!!

Oh my god Tytana!! You’re such a genius for coming up with that. Just bloody brilliant!! Hahaha!!!

How did she come up with that?? Hmm. Apparently, she has this classmate with uhmm, let’s just say “hygiene issues”. Something that won’t allow you to use the bathroom after she used it coz the smell sticks to the walls probably even seeping right to the very spaces between the tiles where mold and mildews reside. There was this time when this classmate of hers burped beside her and she swore up and down to me that she almost passed out. Ganung level, as she says it!

So I can just imagine how the poor dear felt when she learned that this girl is announcing her engagement – she being an NBSB (no boyfriend since birth)!! ^^ I mean, here we are always looking and smelling good, not avoided by people and..and ok I’d rather not state the obvious. To be honest gurl, I don’t know how to make you feel better. But we’re all in this together, haha!! Let me laugh this out with you!! LOL. If you look at it in the positive side, well atleast you’re not the Reyna ng Sablay that is very much yours truly. While we’re still at the never ending singlehood debacle, allow me to share some snippets of my life lately.

It’s true when they say that being alone gives you time to think about yourself, realize some things blah blah blah. It has got me hashing and rehashing the reasons why I should just be happily contented being single and all.

Take for example my musings lately whenever I take my daily routine of commuting home. Recently, I’ve been going home late due to the gym. I know it’s unsafe for a girl like me traveling alone – believe me, I still find it a sinister and intimidating concept. But gym has been very addicting lately. Imagine, men of burning flesh passing you by, co-gymnasts (hehe) who look initially intimidating but unexpectedly friendly and the dancing!! The music’s pimpin’ enough that I can just turn off the lights to give you that Emba feel..hehe. Anyways, I’m really learning a lot. For example, I’ve learned to brave and strong enough without depending on someone. What else?? Uhmmm. Aha!! I learned that that street where I used to drop off from the bus to hail a taxi is a big NO-NO!! Gosh, that street is a school zone and I’m 100% sure that it’s not Ermita or Kalayaan but it has been different nights already that different private vehicles stop by from afar after you saw the driver give you that not-so-subtle head to toe onceover. My goodness!! A quick inspection of myself reveals that yes, I’m in my most decent corporate attire. As far as I remember I don’t have anything on my face anymore coz I refuse to do a retouch after the quick shower to save some time. At that point, I force myself to believe that it was a good decision to turn down an officemate to take you home coz really what’s the point of giving him false hopes right?? But the very important lesson is that God hears prayers. Whenever situation like this happens, it’s almost seems like a miracle that a taxi will be shortly available after you utter a silent plea. Once safe, I reassure myself that this will all be for the benefit of my family. You know, I can devote more of my time to them and to their needs. I can still remember how panicked they were the time I had a bf when I was in my junior years in college, sat me down for a serious talk and only when they heard about my grades were they able to relax – a bit. Certainly, this would be for everybody’s benefit. But I was due for a zinger!

When I reached home I found my Mam and my Tita (old maid Tita Precy) talking about an acquaintance of ours (someone of my age) and her bf. I was munching on my green peas and at the same time caressing my dog Choi Choi when all of a sudden I was hit with the question, “Dang, wala ka bang boyfriend?” Oh em gee, what is this??

“Wala!” I replied indifferently, hoping they would drop the topic.

“Bakit? Maganda ka naman ah!” Mam said. First jolt. I have a whole teenage angst against my Mam for not hearing these words when i was young. Anyway, more details in the future.

“Eh wala eh.” I replied. How do I exactly explain to her that I just had 3 different mishaps with men lately – recently and consecutively – not to mention within a very short span of 2 months??

She then asked what happened to my ex. I promptly gave her an update that he’s got a son now. Then the final gauntlet,

“Syempre, gusto naming mag-asawa kayo!” And she goes on recommending some guys she think will be good for me. Uh-oh!! I can very well feel what Will (a pseudo-cousin, haha!) feels whenever his folks are pressuring him to have kids. I remember giving him the advice of buying a parrot that can record his response so the bird will just answer their repetitive questions. Hahaha!! I might consider doing this for myself, haha!!

Life has a funny way of sneaking up on you When you think everything's okay and everything's going right And life has a funny way of helping you out when You think everything's gone wrong and everything blows up in your face.

Yeah, Isn’t it ironic?

Voice Combo Sandwich Cutie Ű

After the very successful and hit TVC “Pa-cheeseburger ka naman!”, Lem is back for another goofy TV ad for Voice Combo Sandwich. Again, we waited for what seemed like forever for the said ad to be aired yesterday and we only got the chance to have a full view at night!! My initial expression was, “Wow, finally!! Full facial exposure for a longer airtime!!” Hahaha!! Hmm, it’s not as catchy as his line in McDo but atleast I get reviews from my friends that his acting was great!! He really suits that kind of role. Hehe. Well, that’s what matters the most. The concept is not his responsibility. :P Speaking of which, another thing that I’m thankful for in his projects is that he doesn’t get involved in TVCs that can make you go like “Duh?!?!” after. (**cough cough Colgate’s fresh confidence un-dubbed voice**) Here’s his shot during the shoot.

Hay, I can’t get enough of this TVC. I want to watch it again and again. But I’m going home late tonight. If only someone was kind enough to upload it in Youtube. Speaking of which, I just learned that the 3 segments of his McDo TVC are available there. Click it here for the bangs, here for the tuck-in and here for the English.

Oh well, i can always ask him to act out the scene live infront of me, wahaha!! I can’t help but grin at the thought. Ű

My only wish is that folks here in the office would stop teasing me with the Cheesburger thing. Coz already I heard one say this morning: “Pa-voice combo ka naman!” Sheesh!!