What is it that makes an otherwise smart and capable woman (i.e. me) make a complete fool of myself in the presence of somebody I want to impress badly? Be it a boss or a potential crush or even just an old rival from high school. I mean, doesn't it make sense that you would be equipped with more grace, wit and common sense than usual given the special circumstances?
This is why I believe and will continue to believe that Somebody-Up-There has a wicked sense of humor. Somehow it seems that He takes every last vestige of your intelligence away and replaces you with an idiotic, clumsy, stuttering fool in the five minutes that you desperately wanted to make an impact on somebody.
For instance, I don't have an opportunity to talk with my boss's boss very often. He is someone who is a firm believer of hierarchy. Naturally, during the rare occasions that I do interact with him, I would want him to have a first-rate impression of me. But true to word, he catches me wearing jeans on the one single day out of the other 364 days that I decide not to wear jeans. Not only that, I also ended up basically shoving his authority to his face by telling him that somebody higher than him says we can wear jeans that day. . . I mean, how much more suicidal can you get in terms of your career? I can probably kiss my dreams of being promoted good-bye.
Let me give another concrete example. By some stroke of luck, I have had the chance to have lunch with AND sit next to somebody who shall we say, I wouldn't mind dating in the near future. During the short lunch hour while eating barbeque, I transformed from an interesting person into a stare-at-your-own-rice-and-do-not-stop-eating kind of robot. I literally couldn't form a coherent conversation with him. This is quite amusing, especially since I regularly give project updates and bad news to roomful of section managers and associate directors, from different parts of the world. What, normal conversation about weather is tougher than project management stuff???
Let me assure you, the rest of the time, I am actually quite normal. Meaning I can hold an interesting conversation with you and not make you check your watch all the time. I can be counted on to represent the group in global meetings, without messing up the facts. Heck, I manage 6 direct reports, for goodness' sake. I am a capable person. Honestly. I am. I am.
I guess there are are just some days that you get struck by some inexplicable psychological and mental malady that you just can't help but transform into somebody you wouldn't even trust a simple task with.
I just hope that Somebody-Up-There's wacky humor does not strike again soon. Or else the wall will experience more head-banging soon.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Cross-Stitching 101
Pre-Assessment: True or False
1. Cross-stitching is easy.
2. Cross-stitching is therapeutic.
3. Cross-stitching makes a sane person crazy.
Both #1 and #2 could have been true if you add the adverb “supposedly” before easy and therapeutic. It is NOT easy and NOT therapeutic. And if you check the interview records of the mental hospital patients, they will probably tell you that they’ve tried cross-stitching one time or the other and that that IS the reason they are in the said institution.
Seriously, exaggeration aside, I do think that cross-stitching is fun.
And I say this after putting about a month’s worth of effort into it, tracking against a schedule to ensure that I don’t get off-track, getting my index finger pricked at least two dozen times and having 2 scars on each side of my inner leg (don’t ask me how stupid I was to have gotten that scar in that area particularly in the first place), one of which is actually 3 inches long… All things considered, I still think that the whole cross-stitching experience is still fun.
In fact, it’s so much fun that I managed to finish one whole project! (GASPS) Will wonders never cease?
Prerequisites
1. A whole lot of patience! (If you don’t have this initial requirement, just read the rest of this blog for your information only. Forget about completing even a teeny-weeny cross-stitch project.)
2. 10 needles (If you’re clumsy or forgetful like me, trust me, you’ll need at least 10 needles. I lost about 6 or so within 4 weeks.)
3. Pattern of the “thingy” you want to cross-stitch (Choose something that’s simple like Precious Moments design)
4. DMC threads (different colors obviously based on the pattern)
5. Fabric (varies in color, size, counts)
6. Basic knowledge in full stitches, back stitches and French stitch (Both full and back are required unless you want your stitch to not have borders or shapes. You can get away without knowing what the heck a French stitich is. I still have no idea at this point.)
7. Supplier for framing (Look for framing stalls in Tutuban – it costs 25% of the prices that the mall boutiques charge. Plus they can even finish it in a shorter time frame.)
8. Basic supplies like scissors, envelope, pencil or markers
Nice-to-Haves
1. Project schedule (Begin with when you want it to be completed then work backwards.)
2. Friends and loved ones (They alternately cheer you or taunt you when you feel like giving up.)
Success Factors
I have not managed to complete ANY past cross-stitch project in my whole life. EVER. Either I just conveniently pushed them aside, or outsourced (i.e. wheedled somebody) to finish it for me.
This is actually the only time I’ve finished it from start to end, by myself, within the schedule and below my allocated budget.
What can I say? *shrugs shoulders* Unusual circumstances call for unusual results.
1. Having a deadline
Similar to managing a real project in work, having deadlines is more bonus than curse for me. It forces you to sit up and realize that your work is due in less than 8 hours and you haven’t done a single thing yet.
Better yet if the deadline is immovable – example due to legal, financial or emotional constraints. In this particular case, the deadline happens to be the birthday of a friend of mine, which helped push me to complete it on time. If not, I can't guarantee to produce the same results.
2. Formulating a schedule and sticking to it
Don’t laugh. It really does work. Not that I used Microsoft Project to make this particular schedule (I don’t think I’m that nerdy yet), but I just applied the basic concepts.
When do I expect to give the gift (equals end date)?
What other work do I have aside from cross-stitching (equals constraints)?
What are the different sub-sections I can break it down to (equals work breakdown structure for milestone check)?
How much “extra” time do I give myself in case something unexpected comes up (equals slack)?
Factor all of that in and you know when you should start to finish on time. And you will have a target end date for each section as well (eg. face, hair, bathtub, dog, so forth), to help bolster your confidence since you can see results from the completion of the sub-sections and to track as well as to whether you’re on track to meet your target date or not.
One lesson I learned though is that you can never make the schedule too tight.
Silly me, I forgot to factor in the probability that our attic might catch fire (reference: blog entry on April 17, Tuesday). This is the reason why I virtually spent the whole weekend doing nothing but trying to finish this darn thing. I ended up just having approximately 3 hours of sleep as well. This is also the same reason why my cross-stitch ended up not having the flower and birds borders all over it. I had to remove some scope in order to meet the original timeline.
3. Having an “X” factor
In this particular case, knowing that you want to do something special for a certain someone IS certainly enough incentive enough to complete it.
I'm reapplying risk, scope, time, human resource, cost, quality, procurement and integration management principles... Wow! I guess I did learn something from my PMP (Project Management Professionals) certification exams!
When will I do this again? . . . Probably when the same unusual circumstances materialize again. Which reminds me: Two close friends of mine from way back in high school are getting married this year. Hmm… I might be persuaded to give them cross-stitch as my pre-wedding gift. We’ll see how it goes.
Post-Assessment: True or False
1. Cross-stitching is easy.
2. Cross-stitching is therapeutic.
3. Cross-stitching makes a sane person crazy.
I'm still sticking to the same answers :)
But it is fun. Try it.
1. Cross-stitching is easy.
2. Cross-stitching is therapeutic.
3. Cross-stitching makes a sane person crazy.
Both #1 and #2 could have been true if you add the adverb “supposedly” before easy and therapeutic. It is NOT easy and NOT therapeutic. And if you check the interview records of the mental hospital patients, they will probably tell you that they’ve tried cross-stitching one time or the other and that that IS the reason they are in the said institution.
Seriously, exaggeration aside, I do think that cross-stitching is fun.
And I say this after putting about a month’s worth of effort into it, tracking against a schedule to ensure that I don’t get off-track, getting my index finger pricked at least two dozen times and having 2 scars on each side of my inner leg (don’t ask me how stupid I was to have gotten that scar in that area particularly in the first place), one of which is actually 3 inches long… All things considered, I still think that the whole cross-stitching experience is still fun.
In fact, it’s so much fun that I managed to finish one whole project! (GASPS) Will wonders never cease?
Prerequisites1. A whole lot of patience! (If you don’t have this initial requirement, just read the rest of this blog for your information only. Forget about completing even a teeny-weeny cross-stitch project.)
2. 10 needles (If you’re clumsy or forgetful like me, trust me, you’ll need at least 10 needles. I lost about 6 or so within 4 weeks.)
3. Pattern of the “thingy” you want to cross-stitch (Choose something that’s simple like Precious Moments design)
4. DMC threads (different colors obviously based on the pattern)
5. Fabric (varies in color, size, counts)
6. Basic knowledge in full stitches, back stitches and French stitch (Both full and back are required unless you want your stitch to not have borders or shapes. You can get away without knowing what the heck a French stitich is. I still have no idea at this point.)
7. Supplier for framing (Look for framing stalls in Tutuban – it costs 25% of the prices that the mall boutiques charge. Plus they can even finish it in a shorter time frame.)
8. Basic supplies like scissors, envelope, pencil or markers
Nice-to-Haves
1. Project schedule (Begin with when you want it to be completed then work backwards.)
2. Friends and loved ones (They alternately cheer you or taunt you when you feel like giving up.)
Success Factors
I have not managed to complete ANY past cross-stitch project in my whole life. EVER. Either I just conveniently pushed them aside, or outsourced (i.e. wheedled somebody) to finish it for me.
This is actually the only time I’ve finished it from start to end, by myself, within the schedule and below my allocated budget.
What can I say? *shrugs shoulders* Unusual circumstances call for unusual results.
1. Having a deadline
Similar to managing a real project in work, having deadlines is more bonus than curse for me. It forces you to sit up and realize that your work is due in less than 8 hours and you haven’t done a single thing yet.
Better yet if the deadline is immovable – example due to legal, financial or emotional constraints. In this particular case, the deadline happens to be the birthday of a friend of mine, which helped push me to complete it on time. If not, I can't guarantee to produce the same results.
2. Formulating a schedule and sticking to it
Don’t laugh. It really does work. Not that I used Microsoft Project to make this particular schedule (I don’t think I’m that nerdy yet), but I just applied the basic concepts.
When do I expect to give the gift (equals end date)?
What other work do I have aside from cross-stitching (equals constraints)?
What are the different sub-sections I can break it down to (equals work breakdown structure for milestone check)?
How much “extra” time do I give myself in case something unexpected comes up (equals slack)?
Factor all of that in and you know when you should start to finish on time. And you will have a target end date for each section as well (eg. face, hair, bathtub, dog, so forth), to help bolster your confidence since you can see results from the completion of the sub-sections and to track as well as to whether you’re on track to meet your target date or not.
One lesson I learned though is that you can never make the schedule too tight.
Silly me, I forgot to factor in the probability that our attic might catch fire (reference: blog entry on April 17, Tuesday). This is the reason why I virtually spent the whole weekend doing nothing but trying to finish this darn thing. I ended up just having approximately 3 hours of sleep as well. This is also the same reason why my cross-stitch ended up not having the flower and birds borders all over it. I had to remove some scope in order to meet the original timeline.
3. Having an “X” factor
In this particular case, knowing that you want to do something special for a certain someone IS certainly enough incentive enough to complete it.
I'm reapplying risk, scope, time, human resource, cost, quality, procurement and integration management principles... Wow! I guess I did learn something from my PMP (Project Management Professionals) certification exams!
When will I do this again? . . . Probably when the same unusual circumstances materialize again. Which reminds me: Two close friends of mine from way back in high school are getting married this year. Hmm… I might be persuaded to give them cross-stitch as my pre-wedding gift. We’ll see how it goes.
Post-Assessment: True or False
1. Cross-stitching is easy.
2. Cross-stitching is therapeutic.
3. Cross-stitching makes a sane person crazy.
I'm still sticking to the same answers :)
But it is fun. Try it.
Monday, April 23, 2007
I Believe
I believe in lists, but I also thrive in organized chaos.
I believe in true love and happy-ever-after, but I also believe that everything doesn't always end up that way.
I believe in being assertive and outspoken, but sometimes silence does speak a thousand words.
I believe in earth-shattering and mind-blowing sex, but I also believe in the power of simple hugs and light touches.
I believe that loving someone means holding on, but sometimes it also means knowing when to let go.
I believe in fate, good luck, the moon, the stars and the like, but I also believe in taking charge and making things happen for yourself.
I believe in getting up and trying again, but I also know when to step back and quit gracefully.
I believe in the goodness of people's hearts, but I also know that there are also hopeless and rotten souls out there.
I believe that being surrounded with friends and loved ones is a great feeling, but so can just being by yourself.
I believe that ignorance is bliss, but sometimes, you just gotta know the truth.
I believe in believing what you see, but some things are just meant to be accepted, even without any physical evidence.
I believe in being kind and yet, being firm.
I believe that explanations are necessary, but sometimes just saying a sincere "sorry" is more than enough.
I believe in the sheer enjoyment of being in the spotlight, but sometimes I prefer to let my people shine.
I believe in having formal contracts, but sometimes even just a handshake is enough.
I believe in thinking and acting decisively, but sometimes the best decisions you make is after you sleep on it first.
I believe in being strong, but I don't necessarily want to always have to be strong all the time.
I believe in being flexible and making compromises, but there are just some things that you simply cannot budge from.
I believe that there is an equal shower of blessings and challenges in life.
I believe in saving up for the future, but I don't mind splurging a little once in a while.
I believe in giving people the benefit of the doubt, but sometimes first impressions are actually truer and more accurate than you think.
I believe in being subtle, but sometimes you just have to bring it on full force.
I believe in age-old customs and traditions, but I also welcome new and controversial ideas.
I believe in growing up and becoming wiser with age, but I don't ever want to completely let go of my inner child as well.
I believe in hard facts and pure logic, but I also believe in the unseen and untold.
I believe that inner beauty is more permanent, but it doesn't hurt to receive compliments on your physical attributes as well.
I believe that people should be acclaimed for their grand achievements, but small things go a long, long way.
Most of all, I believe that you should trust in yourself, your values and your convictions, but you should always be open and hear out what others believe in.
Confused? Balimbing*? ... No, definitely not.
Multiple personality disorder? . . . Maybe.
But at least you're sure you'll get to know a very interesting and complex person in me.
That being said, it will probably take you the whole lifetime to understand the whole me... Or maybe more.
*NOTE: I cannot find the direct English translation for the Filipino word balimbing, but it is commonly used to describe someone who keeps changing his mind on every whim.
I believe in true love and happy-ever-after, but I also believe that everything doesn't always end up that way.
I believe in being assertive and outspoken, but sometimes silence does speak a thousand words.
I believe in earth-shattering and mind-blowing sex, but I also believe in the power of simple hugs and light touches.
I believe that loving someone means holding on, but sometimes it also means knowing when to let go.
I believe in fate, good luck, the moon, the stars and the like, but I also believe in taking charge and making things happen for yourself.
I believe in getting up and trying again, but I also know when to step back and quit gracefully.
I believe in the goodness of people's hearts, but I also know that there are also hopeless and rotten souls out there.
I believe that being surrounded with friends and loved ones is a great feeling, but so can just being by yourself.
I believe that ignorance is bliss, but sometimes, you just gotta know the truth.
I believe in believing what you see, but some things are just meant to be accepted, even without any physical evidence.
I believe in being kind and yet, being firm.
I believe that explanations are necessary, but sometimes just saying a sincere "sorry" is more than enough.
I believe in the sheer enjoyment of being in the spotlight, but sometimes I prefer to let my people shine.
I believe in having formal contracts, but sometimes even just a handshake is enough.
I believe in thinking and acting decisively, but sometimes the best decisions you make is after you sleep on it first.
I believe in being strong, but I don't necessarily want to always have to be strong all the time.
I believe in being flexible and making compromises, but there are just some things that you simply cannot budge from.
I believe that there is an equal shower of blessings and challenges in life.
I believe in saving up for the future, but I don't mind splurging a little once in a while.
I believe in giving people the benefit of the doubt, but sometimes first impressions are actually truer and more accurate than you think.
I believe in being subtle, but sometimes you just have to bring it on full force.
I believe in age-old customs and traditions, but I also welcome new and controversial ideas.
I believe in growing up and becoming wiser with age, but I don't ever want to completely let go of my inner child as well.
I believe in hard facts and pure logic, but I also believe in the unseen and untold.
I believe that inner beauty is more permanent, but it doesn't hurt to receive compliments on your physical attributes as well.
I believe that people should be acclaimed for their grand achievements, but small things go a long, long way.
Most of all, I believe that you should trust in yourself, your values and your convictions, but you should always be open and hear out what others believe in.
Confused? Balimbing*? ... No, definitely not.
Multiple personality disorder? . . . Maybe.
But at least you're sure you'll get to know a very interesting and complex person in me.
That being said, it will probably take you the whole lifetime to understand the whole me... Or maybe more.
God, grant me the serenity to accept the things that I cannot change,
the courage to change the things things that I can,
and the wisdom to know the difference.
*NOTE: I cannot find the direct English translation for the Filipino word balimbing, but it is commonly used to describe someone who keeps changing his mind on every whim.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Anti-Stalking 101
What is the difference between a guy who is stalking you vs a guy who's crazy in love with you?
For me, clinical deeply-rooted psychological issues aside, the thin line is really YOU. Your assessment of his actions depend a lot on how attracted you are to the other guy.
Think about it.
If you fall asleep with thoughts of him on your mind, you wouldn't mind that he texts you sweet-nothings every 5 minutes. In fact, you would actually be feeling quite giddy and your feet would've been floating in heaven already by the third (no, the first) text. Never would it even enter your head that he could be stalker material.
On the other hand, if another guy whom you obviously cannot imagine ever going out with starts doing the same thing, you would probably warn your family and friends that this guy is psycho (with matching circling actions near your temple). You would have a similar reaction if that same guy that you were so crazy about a week before suddenly looked horrible to you, and you broke up with him, but he’s still doing the same things that he used to do before. What was previously sweet and mushy now seemed annoying and sometimes, downright threatening.
Have I convinced you yet?
Actually to tell you the truth, my theory MIGHT hold true for some cases, but it only covers the tip of the iceberg. Even if we take out the YOU factor, there's still the bigger part of the puzzle that's missing - the psychological mindset of the stalker in question.
I have given up trying to analyze these types of people. They can probably come up with a dozen people to blame for their behaviors (all the way from their siblings and parents to their great-great-grandparents), but at the end of the day, they allow themselves to be victims of whatever circumstances they were caught in. They prefer to dwell and fixate on a certain object (in this case, unfortunately, that happened to be you), rather than stand and face whatever rejections or humiliations reality throws back at them.
What do you do when this happens? What do you do when some lunatic decides that you are "The Only One" for him.
Honestly, no matter how much you read on this or prepare yourself to be excellent judges of character for "potential stalkers," this is just one of those things that you cannot fully prepare for.
However, I do know that there are some DON'Ts that you should be aware of.
1. Do not keep this to yourself. Tell your friends and family about this. You are not paranoid. (At least I hope you're not.)
2. Do not prolong any situation wherein you are alone with this stalker. Of course, the ideal situation is that you never end up alone with him/her. But based from experience, these types are typically more creative than average guys. Don't worry about sounding uncouth or losing your poise. Just get the hell away from him.
3. Do not feel sorry for him. He is a master in emotional blackmail and guilt trips. Do not fall for those tricks.
In case you were wondering but are too polite to ask: Yes, I am speaking from personal experience. The only difference is that I was too young and gullible then. (Now I'm older but still gullible). Hehe.
I sincerely hope that you won't ever need this particular list. But if you do happen to be in one of these situations, remember that you are not alone.
A lot have had encountered this horrible experience and have survived it. You may not remember what I wrote above, but you just have to believe in yourself. You ARE strong enough to overcome this. (And it doesn't hurt to have half a dozen muscled guys playing your bodyguards while you recover from this ordeal LOL.)
For me, clinical deeply-rooted psychological issues aside, the thin line is really YOU. Your assessment of his actions depend a lot on how attracted you are to the other guy.
Think about it.
If you fall asleep with thoughts of him on your mind, you wouldn't mind that he texts you sweet-nothings every 5 minutes. In fact, you would actually be feeling quite giddy and your feet would've been floating in heaven already by the third (no, the first) text. Never would it even enter your head that he could be stalker material.
On the other hand, if another guy whom you obviously cannot imagine ever going out with starts doing the same thing, you would probably warn your family and friends that this guy is psycho (with matching circling actions near your temple). You would have a similar reaction if that same guy that you were so crazy about a week before suddenly looked horrible to you, and you broke up with him, but he’s still doing the same things that he used to do before. What was previously sweet and mushy now seemed annoying and sometimes, downright threatening.
Have I convinced you yet?
Actually to tell you the truth, my theory MIGHT hold true for some cases, but it only covers the tip of the iceberg. Even if we take out the YOU factor, there's still the bigger part of the puzzle that's missing - the psychological mindset of the stalker in question.
I have given up trying to analyze these types of people. They can probably come up with a dozen people to blame for their behaviors (all the way from their siblings and parents to their great-great-grandparents), but at the end of the day, they allow themselves to be victims of whatever circumstances they were caught in. They prefer to dwell and fixate on a certain object (in this case, unfortunately, that happened to be you), rather than stand and face whatever rejections or humiliations reality throws back at them.
What do you do when this happens? What do you do when some lunatic decides that you are "The Only One" for him.
Honestly, no matter how much you read on this or prepare yourself to be excellent judges of character for "potential stalkers," this is just one of those things that you cannot fully prepare for.
However, I do know that there are some DON'Ts that you should be aware of.
1. Do not keep this to yourself. Tell your friends and family about this. You are not paranoid. (At least I hope you're not.)
2. Do not prolong any situation wherein you are alone with this stalker. Of course, the ideal situation is that you never end up alone with him/her. But based from experience, these types are typically more creative than average guys. Don't worry about sounding uncouth or losing your poise. Just get the hell away from him.
3. Do not feel sorry for him. He is a master in emotional blackmail and guilt trips. Do not fall for those tricks.
In case you were wondering but are too polite to ask: Yes, I am speaking from personal experience. The only difference is that I was too young and gullible then. (Now I'm older but still gullible). Hehe.
I sincerely hope that you won't ever need this particular list. But if you do happen to be in one of these situations, remember that you are not alone.
A lot have had encountered this horrible experience and have survived it. You may not remember what I wrote above, but you just have to believe in yourself. You ARE strong enough to overcome this. (And it doesn't hurt to have half a dozen muscled guys playing your bodyguards while you recover from this ordeal LOL.)
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Fire, Fury, Fffft
Just yesterday, a fire broke out in my home, specifically at the 3rd floor attic. It also happens to be the place where all of my stuff is. Despite the chaos and ash-filled surroundings, I was still able to come up with a few ideas and realizations about the fire that I wanted to blog about at the next possible moment.
… I wonder if other blog writers are as addicted as I am... Anyway...
More $$$ + Safety = Worth It!
One of my favorite uncles (from my mother’s side) is actually the architect who designed our compound and supervised the construction until completion. Granted, I knew from before that his designs and ideas were really first-rate, but I’ve always felt that they were… uh… a tad more expensive than I personally would’ve paid for, especially with all the new affordable condominium units that crop up everywhere. Mom kept defending him and just reiterated that he “uses good materials.”
Now, I am extremely thankful that he and no one else designed our home. It was mainly because of the fire-resistant materials and excellent fire-proof structure of the house, that the fire was literally contained only within the area of where it originally started. It did not expand to the two lower floors, nor did it reach other houses right next to ours. Nothing short of a miracle – if you could see how toasted our attic looks just about now.
Sometimes it just pays to pay more – in the name of safety.
Stupidity + Power = Hell
I already know for a fact that I have low (read: zero) tolerance for incompetence and stupidity. But the people I’ve interacted that display these characteristics are relatively harmless. But put a stupid person in a position of power is just like hell breaking loose on earth.
A perfect example is SFO2 Emmanual C. Gaspar, Fire/Arson Investigator of the Investigation and Intelligence Branch of Bureau of Fire Protection based in Sta. Cruz, Manila. He is the investigator that was assigned to our particular case and has displayed various degrees of stupidity, incompetence and rudeness consistently within the short 24 hours of interaction.
First of all, only a stupid person will continue fixating on the theory of arson without even conducting a proper investigation AND after the fact that there is no viable motive established. Our house is not insured. We’re not stupid enough to deliberately set fire to our own home for 13 years without any compelling motive.
Secondly, to comply with legal requirements, in spite of our busy schedules, we willingly went to the bureau noon of the very next day to give our statements.
His reply? “You should’ve come here yesterday.”
I wanted to ask him, “If your house caught fire and you have no reason to believe arson is involved, would you prioritize giving a statement or would you maybe… I don’t know… check the damage and fix your house first?” I was so tempted to throttle his smug face and squeeze the life out of him with my bare hands and more. But I was only able to stare at him, stupefied for about 10 seconds before sputtering, “B-but, our house just caught fire late yesterday!!!”
He just repeated his earlier statement, “You should’ve come here yesterday.” Go figure.
Lastly, while taking our statements, he spends half of his time formatting and reformatting that stupid Word document. This is similar to how frustrating it must be for you to be in a meeting with 10 other managers, and the meeting discussion is on hold while the meeting leader or scribe adds nice font colors, changes the font size or puts a border on the title.
These people are just simply lacking the ability to realize that they are not being meticulous but are in fact, just wasting people’s time and patience.
Aaaargh!
Loss + Search = Priority
First thing we did was to make sure that everyone was safe and sound. But what’s amusing is that what we search for after a fire actually discloses what’s really the priority in everyone’s minds.
Mom kept checking whether all of the stock certificates and other important financial documents are complete.
My brother made sure that all of his transcripts from medical school which are relevant for his US and Singapore application are all still intact.
My sister wondered if her book collection is damaged or not.
My 6-year old son kept asking if we can get his Gameboy Advance and Nintendo DS, which he left in the attic.
As for me, I just kept bemoaning about my shoes, my clothes, my bags before thinking – Hey! Does this mean I have an excuse to shop again?
…
I ran out of witty realizations, so I’ll stop here. These are probably symptoms of my blog addiction or just that my corporate training is too well-ingrained in me to continuously look for insights, but they do keep me going. They help me focus on the more amusing aspects of life and not dwell on the fact that my family keeps encountering more and more exciting events just within the past 12 months alone. (Note: Do not assume that exciting is always positive.)
Right now, our house is still not livable. We’re squatting at my brother’s house while we’re fixing the house. The whole attic is toasted, currently still with a yellow line taped around it that says "Fire Line - Do Not Cross" (similar to scenes from CSI, but a lot less fun to watch). The second and ground floors are slightly damaged with water. There's still no electricity, no water. We need to do a thorough checking of all electrical wirings. But otherwise, life is good.
We're all still safe and sound. The whole family is still together. That's what matters most.
Things are replaceable, people are not.
… I wonder if other blog writers are as addicted as I am... Anyway...
More $$$ + Safety = Worth It!
One of my favorite uncles (from my mother’s side) is actually the architect who designed our compound and supervised the construction until completion. Granted, I knew from before that his designs and ideas were really first-rate, but I’ve always felt that they were… uh… a tad more expensive than I personally would’ve paid for, especially with all the new affordable condominium units that crop up everywhere. Mom kept defending him and just reiterated that he “uses good materials.”
Now, I am extremely thankful that he and no one else designed our home. It was mainly because of the fire-resistant materials and excellent fire-proof structure of the house, that the fire was literally contained only within the area of where it originally started. It did not expand to the two lower floors, nor did it reach other houses right next to ours. Nothing short of a miracle – if you could see how toasted our attic looks just about now.
Sometimes it just pays to pay more – in the name of safety.
Stupidity + Power = Hell
I already know for a fact that I have low (read: zero) tolerance for incompetence and stupidity. But the people I’ve interacted that display these characteristics are relatively harmless. But put a stupid person in a position of power is just like hell breaking loose on earth.
A perfect example is SFO2 Emmanual C. Gaspar, Fire/Arson Investigator of the Investigation and Intelligence Branch of Bureau of Fire Protection based in Sta. Cruz, Manila. He is the investigator that was assigned to our particular case and has displayed various degrees of stupidity, incompetence and rudeness consistently within the short 24 hours of interaction.
First of all, only a stupid person will continue fixating on the theory of arson without even conducting a proper investigation AND after the fact that there is no viable motive established. Our house is not insured. We’re not stupid enough to deliberately set fire to our own home for 13 years without any compelling motive.
Secondly, to comply with legal requirements, in spite of our busy schedules, we willingly went to the bureau noon of the very next day to give our statements.
His reply? “You should’ve come here yesterday.”
I wanted to ask him, “If your house caught fire and you have no reason to believe arson is involved, would you prioritize giving a statement or would you maybe… I don’t know… check the damage and fix your house first?” I was so tempted to throttle his smug face and squeeze the life out of him with my bare hands and more. But I was only able to stare at him, stupefied for about 10 seconds before sputtering, “B-but, our house just caught fire late yesterday!!!”
He just repeated his earlier statement, “You should’ve come here yesterday.” Go figure.
Lastly, while taking our statements, he spends half of his time formatting and reformatting that stupid Word document. This is similar to how frustrating it must be for you to be in a meeting with 10 other managers, and the meeting discussion is on hold while the meeting leader or scribe adds nice font colors, changes the font size or puts a border on the title.
These people are just simply lacking the ability to realize that they are not being meticulous but are in fact, just wasting people’s time and patience.
Aaaargh!
Loss + Search = Priority
First thing we did was to make sure that everyone was safe and sound. But what’s amusing is that what we search for after a fire actually discloses what’s really the priority in everyone’s minds.
Mom kept checking whether all of the stock certificates and other important financial documents are complete.
My brother made sure that all of his transcripts from medical school which are relevant for his US and Singapore application are all still intact.
My sister wondered if her book collection is damaged or not.
My 6-year old son kept asking if we can get his Gameboy Advance and Nintendo DS, which he left in the attic.
As for me, I just kept bemoaning about my shoes, my clothes, my bags before thinking – Hey! Does this mean I have an excuse to shop again?
…
I ran out of witty realizations, so I’ll stop here. These are probably symptoms of my blog addiction or just that my corporate training is too well-ingrained in me to continuously look for insights, but they do keep me going. They help me focus on the more amusing aspects of life and not dwell on the fact that my family keeps encountering more and more exciting events just within the past 12 months alone. (Note: Do not assume that exciting is always positive.)
Right now, our house is still not livable. We’re squatting at my brother’s house while we’re fixing the house. The whole attic is toasted, currently still with a yellow line taped around it that says "Fire Line - Do Not Cross" (similar to scenes from CSI, but a lot less fun to watch). The second and ground floors are slightly damaged with water. There's still no electricity, no water. We need to do a thorough checking of all electrical wirings. But otherwise, life is good.
We're all still safe and sound. The whole family is still together. That's what matters most.
Things are replaceable, people are not.
Monday, April 16, 2007
I Want the Tooth... Nothing But the Tooth!
Similar to the popular analogy to Santa Claus, there are three (3) stages in a parent’s life:
Stage 1 : You believe in the Tooth Fairy.
Stage 2 : You don’t believe in the Tooth Fairy.
Stage 3 : You ARE the Tooth Fairy!
Guess which stage I am in right now? … Yep, I’m (unfortunately) at the last and final phase.
I find this role particularly amusing because I have no recollection of ever believing in the Tooth Fairy (unlike Santa Claus, which I believed to still exist till about 2nd year college). In fact, I can’t even make out what the Tooth Fairy looks like (again unlike Santa Claus, which we all know wears a red suit, white beard and huge belly) - I just keep thinking Tinkerbell, for some strange reason.
But then again, who am I to pass on my cynicism about the Tooth Fairy to my wide-eyed, innocent-looking hopeful 6-year old son? Not me, no siree. I am not about to be the bad messenger and tell him that there IS no Tooth Fairy. I am not about to disclose that it was me all along who wakes up bleary-eyed at 5 am, fumbles a bit for the tooth under the pillow and groggily swipes it with a 5-peso coin and promptly falls back to sleep the minute my head hits the pillow.
No, I’d rather he discover this fact by himself – as something that all kids have to go through as part of induction hall to adulthood. And even though I was literally depressed for a couple of days after I finally deduce through logical thinking, that there is really no Santa Claus back in January 18, 1998, I eventually got over it (Yep, I still remember the exact date). And if my son is anything like me, he will too. Of that, I have absolutely no doubt.
... In the meantime, I content myself to playing the faceless Tooth Fairy. Thank God this role only lasts for a couple of years max.
Stage 1 : You believe in the Tooth Fairy.
Stage 2 : You don’t believe in the Tooth Fairy.
Stage 3 : You ARE the Tooth Fairy!
Guess which stage I am in right now? … Yep, I’m (unfortunately) at the last and final phase.
I find this role particularly amusing because I have no recollection of ever believing in the Tooth Fairy (unlike Santa Claus, which I believed to still exist till about 2nd year college). In fact, I can’t even make out what the Tooth Fairy looks like (again unlike Santa Claus, which we all know wears a red suit, white beard and huge belly) - I just keep thinking Tinkerbell, for some strange reason.
But then again, who am I to pass on my cynicism about the Tooth Fairy to my wide-eyed, innocent-looking hopeful 6-year old son? Not me, no siree. I am not about to be the bad messenger and tell him that there IS no Tooth Fairy. I am not about to disclose that it was me all along who wakes up bleary-eyed at 5 am, fumbles a bit for the tooth under the pillow and groggily swipes it with a 5-peso coin and promptly falls back to sleep the minute my head hits the pillow.
No, I’d rather he discover this fact by himself – as something that all kids have to go through as part of induction hall to adulthood. And even though I was literally depressed for a couple of days after I finally deduce through logical thinking, that there is really no Santa Claus back in January 18, 1998, I eventually got over it (Yep, I still remember the exact date). And if my son is anything like me, he will too. Of that, I have absolutely no doubt.
... In the meantime, I content myself to playing the faceless Tooth Fairy. Thank God this role only lasts for a couple of years max.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
The Test
I realize I am a novice when it comes to dating. Plus, I am also a hopeless romantic, having grown up reading romance novels. (I blame Judith McNaught, Linda Howard and Sandra Brown for putting crazy ideas in my head.)
But still, rookie or not, I do know for a fact that guys normally put on their best foot forward during the initial courting stage (although I happen to know a couple of guys who insist on acting as they normally would even while courting).
Needless to say, most girls are actually surprised, disappointed, disillusioned or all of the above, when the courting stage ends and reality sets in. The guy they knew who was romantic, sweet and aggressive in pursuing them evolves into … well… typical guys. It is only now that we girls, realize that they are actually lazy idiots who are content to just sit around and play video games all day (and night) long... Okay, maybe I’m being too harsh, but I think you know what I mean.
This is why – to save womenfolk a lot of heartaches in the future – I am proposing that all practical, modern women out there, that they should insist on experiencing these 6 scenarios to begin with, before you even consider saying yes. Remember, we have to suffer for the rest of our lives if we say yes to the wrong persons. So it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
I have a fairly simple and straightforward rating system:
Boot him out means he fails the test. Better open the door and kick him out before he breaks your heart.
So-so means he passed and has met expectations. He is definitely one of the good guys. Continue dating and getting to know him until he can be promoted to the next level.
Marry him means hold on tight and marry him. He is “The One.”
Okay, here is my tentative list. Of course, I’ll probably be adding or deleting some as my dating experiences grow and/or if personal circumstances disprove otherwise.
1. Going shopping together
Boot him out: He absolutely refuses to go shopping with you. He’d rather spend his time watching porn or reading FHM. Or if he does agree to go shopping, he whines and frowns the whole time.
So-so: He agrees to go with you, even during mall-wide sales. He carries your shopping bags and patiently waits for you to choose between a pair of green-blue vs blue-green shoes.
Marry him: He agrees to go with you, carries your shopping bags and patiently waits for you to choose between a pair of green-blue vs blue-green shoes… But he does all of these not just in malls, but even in stuffy, dirty wet markets like 168 or Tutuban.
(Note: 168 and Tutuban are famous wet-market type of shopping areas in Manila, Philippines that are known equally for their cheap prices that you can further haggle on AND not-so-nice ambiance – unless you don't mind 50 other shoppers elbowing you while you look at the goods; dirty and somewhat smelly streets; and the possibility of being robbed and not noticing it until you're about to reach for your wallet to pay for something... But to be fair, it does offer good bargains... that's why it's still irresistible to us women!)
2. Being sick and/or having your period
Boot him out: He says, “Text me when your period is over so we can uhh... you know ... hang out again” or “Call me when your bug is not contagious anymore.”
So-so: He asks you where you’re feeling sick and how he can help. He offers to accompany you to the doctor.
Marry him: He feeds you soup and crackers till you’re back to your old self. He buys your napkins and doesn’t consider it embarrassing. He keeps Advil in his pocket, just in case you happen to need it.
3. Meeting your family
Boot him out: He fidgets and gives excuses every time the subject of meeting your parents.
So-so: He readily agrees to meet up with your family and even puts up with your dad’s inquisitions.
Marry him: He wants to meet even the grandparents AND aunties/uncles/cousins. He plans the whole thing from start to end.
4. Going on a trip together
Boot him out: He looks at you blankly and wonders, “Why do we need to take a trip? We’re having fun eating at McDonald’s right?” He dodges and squirms until you finally give up asking him. He heaves a huge sigh of relief when you finally stop asking him.
So-so: His reply: “Sure, where do you want to go? I think I have a couple of unused vacation leaves around May.”
Marry him: He has half a dozen travel brochures in his bag and is just waiting for you to align your vacation leaves with your boss and give the magic word. He refuses your attempt to even pay for anything and wants you to leave the trip’s itinerary to him. You have this strong feeling that he's about to propose to you during this trip.
5. Having a bad hair/skin day
Boot him out: He takes one look at you and says, “I think somebody is having a bad hair/skin day today.”
So-so: He puts his arms around you and says, “Don’t worry honey, you still look beautiful to me.”
Marry him: As soon as you meet, he kisses you passionately, pimples and hair frizzing and all.
6. Celebrating your birthday
Boot him out: He forgets.
So-so: He insists on taking you out to dinner. He buys you that stuff toy/book/shirt/bag that you’ve been eyeing for the past 2 weeks.
Marry him: He connives with your friends and family to plan a surprise party for you.
Six situations that will tell you how much your guy is willing to do for you just because you like doing those girly stuffs.
Six settings that will prove how flexible he will be when it comes to tough situation - even those that he is not in complete control of.
Six venues that will show his true-er colors, so much more than an ordinary dinner/movie date can.
Of course, I'm not saying that these are the "end all, be all" of finding Mr. Right. But if he fails in majority of them, then it's probably a strong signal that you need to re-evaluate how much into you your guy really is.
Disclaimer: Author’s viewpoint does not guarantee 100% success rate nor does she attempt to generalize all women and men into specific boxes. These observations are merely based from personal experiences and stories from fellow modern, practical girlfriends.
But still, rookie or not, I do know for a fact that guys normally put on their best foot forward during the initial courting stage (although I happen to know a couple of guys who insist on acting as they normally would even while courting).
Needless to say, most girls are actually surprised, disappointed, disillusioned or all of the above, when the courting stage ends and reality sets in. The guy they knew who was romantic, sweet and aggressive in pursuing them evolves into … well… typical guys. It is only now that we girls, realize that they are actually lazy idiots who are content to just sit around and play video games all day (and night) long... Okay, maybe I’m being too harsh, but I think you know what I mean.
This is why – to save womenfolk a lot of heartaches in the future – I am proposing that all practical, modern women out there, that they should insist on experiencing these 6 scenarios to begin with, before you even consider saying yes. Remember, we have to suffer for the rest of our lives if we say yes to the wrong persons. So it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
I have a fairly simple and straightforward rating system:
Boot him out means he fails the test. Better open the door and kick him out before he breaks your heart.
So-so means he passed and has met expectations. He is definitely one of the good guys. Continue dating and getting to know him until he can be promoted to the next level.
Marry him means hold on tight and marry him. He is “The One.”
Okay, here is my tentative list. Of course, I’ll probably be adding or deleting some as my dating experiences grow and/or if personal circumstances disprove otherwise.
1. Going shopping together
Boot him out: He absolutely refuses to go shopping with you. He’d rather spend his time watching porn or reading FHM. Or if he does agree to go shopping, he whines and frowns the whole time.
So-so: He agrees to go with you, even during mall-wide sales. He carries your shopping bags and patiently waits for you to choose between a pair of green-blue vs blue-green shoes.
Marry him: He agrees to go with you, carries your shopping bags and patiently waits for you to choose between a pair of green-blue vs blue-green shoes… But he does all of these not just in malls, but even in stuffy, dirty wet markets like 168 or Tutuban.
(Note: 168 and Tutuban are famous wet-market type of shopping areas in Manila, Philippines that are known equally for their cheap prices that you can further haggle on AND not-so-nice ambiance – unless you don't mind 50 other shoppers elbowing you while you look at the goods; dirty and somewhat smelly streets; and the possibility of being robbed and not noticing it until you're about to reach for your wallet to pay for something... But to be fair, it does offer good bargains... that's why it's still irresistible to us women!)
2. Being sick and/or having your period
Boot him out: He says, “Text me when your period is over so we can uhh... you know ... hang out again” or “Call me when your bug is not contagious anymore.”
So-so: He asks you where you’re feeling sick and how he can help. He offers to accompany you to the doctor.
Marry him: He feeds you soup and crackers till you’re back to your old self. He buys your napkins and doesn’t consider it embarrassing. He keeps Advil in his pocket, just in case you happen to need it.
3. Meeting your family
Boot him out: He fidgets and gives excuses every time the subject of meeting your parents.
So-so: He readily agrees to meet up with your family and even puts up with your dad’s inquisitions.
Marry him: He wants to meet even the grandparents AND aunties/uncles/cousins. He plans the whole thing from start to end.
4. Going on a trip together
Boot him out: He looks at you blankly and wonders, “Why do we need to take a trip? We’re having fun eating at McDonald’s right?” He dodges and squirms until you finally give up asking him. He heaves a huge sigh of relief when you finally stop asking him.
So-so: His reply: “Sure, where do you want to go? I think I have a couple of unused vacation leaves around May.”
Marry him: He has half a dozen travel brochures in his bag and is just waiting for you to align your vacation leaves with your boss and give the magic word. He refuses your attempt to even pay for anything and wants you to leave the trip’s itinerary to him. You have this strong feeling that he's about to propose to you during this trip.
5. Having a bad hair/skin day
Boot him out: He takes one look at you and says, “I think somebody is having a bad hair/skin day today.”
So-so: He puts his arms around you and says, “Don’t worry honey, you still look beautiful to me.”
Marry him: As soon as you meet, he kisses you passionately, pimples and hair frizzing and all.
6. Celebrating your birthday
Boot him out: He forgets.
So-so: He insists on taking you out to dinner. He buys you that stuff toy/book/shirt/bag that you’ve been eyeing for the past 2 weeks.
Marry him: He connives with your friends and family to plan a surprise party for you.
Six situations that will tell you how much your guy is willing to do for you just because you like doing those girly stuffs.
Six settings that will prove how flexible he will be when it comes to tough situation - even those that he is not in complete control of.
Six venues that will show his true-er colors, so much more than an ordinary dinner/movie date can.
Of course, I'm not saying that these are the "end all, be all" of finding Mr. Right. But if he fails in majority of them, then it's probably a strong signal that you need to re-evaluate how much into you your guy really is.
Disclaimer: Author’s viewpoint does not guarantee 100% success rate nor does she attempt to generalize all women and men into specific boxes. These observations are merely based from personal experiences and stories from fellow modern, practical girlfriends.
Monday, April 9, 2007
Daddy's Rules for Dating
Certain personal circumstances have forced me to relook into the possibility of dating again. And since I know you can find absolutely anything on the Internet, here I am, searching for dating tips online... Let’s just say I believe in being prepared.
I came across this article which I find absolutely entertaining (http://wilk4.com/humor/humorm119.htm).
But truth be told, this is one list I wished my dad or any other male relative has imposed on me and any prospective suitors before.
Your dad's rules for your boyfriend (or for you if you're a guy):
Rule One
If you pull into my driveway and honk you'd better be delivering a package, because you're sure not picking anything up.
Rule Two
You do not touch my daughter in front of me. You may glance at her, so long as you do not peer at anything below her neck. If you cannot keep your eyes or hands off of my daughter's body, I will remove them.
Rule Three
I am aware that it is considered fashionable for boys of your age to wear their trousers so loosely that they appear to be falling off their hips. Please don't take this as an insult, but you and all of your friends are complete idiots. Still, I want to be fair and open minded about this issue, so I propose this compromise: You may come to the door with your underwear showing and your pants ten sizes too big, and I will not object. However, in order to ensure that your clothes do not, in fact come off during the course of your date with my daughter, I will take my electric nail gun and fasten your trousers securely in place to your waist.
Rule Four
I'm sure you've been told that in today's world, sex without utilizing a "Barrier method" of some kind can kill you. Let me elaborate, when it comes to sex, I am the barrier, and I will kill you.
Rule Five
It is usually understood that in order for us to get to know each other, we should talk about sports, politics, and other issues of the day. Please do not do this. The only information I require from you is an indication of when you expect to have my daughter safely back at my house, and the only word I need from you on this subject is: "early."
Rule Six
I have no doubt you are a popular fellow, with many opportunities to date other girls. This is fine with me as long as it is okay with my daughter. Otherwise, once you have gone out with my little girl, you will continue to date no one but her until she is finished with you. If you make her cry, I will make you cry.
Rule Seven
As you stand in my front hallway, waiting for my daughter to appear, and more than an hour goes by, do not sigh and fidget. If you want to be on time for the movie, you should not be dating. My daughter is putting on her makeup, a process than can take longer than painting the Golden Gate Bridge. Instead of just standing there, why don't you do something useful, like changing the oil in my car?
Rule Eight
The following places are not appropriate for a date with my daughter: Places where there are beds, sofas, or anything softer than a wooden stool. Places where there is darkness. Places where there is dancing, holding hands, or happiness. Places where the ambient temperature is warm enough to induce my daughter to wear shorts, tank tops, midriff T-shirts, or anything other than overalls, a sweater, and a goose down parka - zipped up to her throat. Movies with a strong romantic or sexual theme are to be avoided; movies which features chain saws are okay. Hockey games are okay. Old folks homes are better.
Rule Nine
Do not lie to me. I may appear to be a potbellied, balding, middle-aged, dimwitted has-been. But on issues relating to my daughter, I am the all-knowing, merciless god of your universe. If I ask you where you are going and with whom, you have one chance to tell me the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. I have a shotgun, a shovel, and five acres behind the house. Do not trifle with me.
Rule Ten
Be afraid. Be very afraid. It takes very little for me to mistake the sound of your car in the driveway for a chopper coming in over a rice paddy near Hanoi. When my Agent Orange starts acting up, the voices in my head frequently tell me to clean the guns as I wait for you to bring my daughter home. As soon as you pull into the driveway you should exit the car with both hands in plain sight. Speak the perimeter password, announce in a clear voice that you have brought my daughter home safely and early, then return to your car - there is no need for you to come inside. The camouflaged face at the window is mine.
If you think this list is scary, you should see his "application for permission to date his daughter" (http://wilk4.com/humor/humorp3.htm)
Cool dad eh? :)
I came across this article which I find absolutely entertaining (http://wilk4.com/humor/humorm119.htm).
But truth be told, this is one list I wished my dad or any other male relative has imposed on me and any prospective suitors before.
Your dad's rules for your boyfriend (or for you if you're a guy):
Rule One
If you pull into my driveway and honk you'd better be delivering a package, because you're sure not picking anything up.
Rule Two
You do not touch my daughter in front of me. You may glance at her, so long as you do not peer at anything below her neck. If you cannot keep your eyes or hands off of my daughter's body, I will remove them.
Rule Three
I am aware that it is considered fashionable for boys of your age to wear their trousers so loosely that they appear to be falling off their hips. Please don't take this as an insult, but you and all of your friends are complete idiots. Still, I want to be fair and open minded about this issue, so I propose this compromise: You may come to the door with your underwear showing and your pants ten sizes too big, and I will not object. However, in order to ensure that your clothes do not, in fact come off during the course of your date with my daughter, I will take my electric nail gun and fasten your trousers securely in place to your waist.
Rule Four
I'm sure you've been told that in today's world, sex without utilizing a "Barrier method" of some kind can kill you. Let me elaborate, when it comes to sex, I am the barrier, and I will kill you.
Rule Five
It is usually understood that in order for us to get to know each other, we should talk about sports, politics, and other issues of the day. Please do not do this. The only information I require from you is an indication of when you expect to have my daughter safely back at my house, and the only word I need from you on this subject is: "early."
Rule Six
I have no doubt you are a popular fellow, with many opportunities to date other girls. This is fine with me as long as it is okay with my daughter. Otherwise, once you have gone out with my little girl, you will continue to date no one but her until she is finished with you. If you make her cry, I will make you cry.
Rule Seven
As you stand in my front hallway, waiting for my daughter to appear, and more than an hour goes by, do not sigh and fidget. If you want to be on time for the movie, you should not be dating. My daughter is putting on her makeup, a process than can take longer than painting the Golden Gate Bridge. Instead of just standing there, why don't you do something useful, like changing the oil in my car?
Rule Eight
The following places are not appropriate for a date with my daughter: Places where there are beds, sofas, or anything softer than a wooden stool. Places where there is darkness. Places where there is dancing, holding hands, or happiness. Places where the ambient temperature is warm enough to induce my daughter to wear shorts, tank tops, midriff T-shirts, or anything other than overalls, a sweater, and a goose down parka - zipped up to her throat. Movies with a strong romantic or sexual theme are to be avoided; movies which features chain saws are okay. Hockey games are okay. Old folks homes are better.
Rule Nine
Do not lie to me. I may appear to be a potbellied, balding, middle-aged, dimwitted has-been. But on issues relating to my daughter, I am the all-knowing, merciless god of your universe. If I ask you where you are going and with whom, you have one chance to tell me the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. I have a shotgun, a shovel, and five acres behind the house. Do not trifle with me.
Rule Ten
Be afraid. Be very afraid. It takes very little for me to mistake the sound of your car in the driveway for a chopper coming in over a rice paddy near Hanoi. When my Agent Orange starts acting up, the voices in my head frequently tell me to clean the guns as I wait for you to bring my daughter home. As soon as you pull into the driveway you should exit the car with both hands in plain sight. Speak the perimeter password, announce in a clear voice that you have brought my daughter home safely and early, then return to your car - there is no need for you to come inside. The camouflaged face at the window is mine.
If you think this list is scary, you should see his "application for permission to date his daughter" (http://wilk4.com/humor/humorp3.htm)
Cool dad eh? :)
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Money Matters
My brother recently remarked, "Do you know what's worse than living above your means? It's living under your means."
... I happen to agree with him.
Think about it. Do a few pesos really matter in the big picture? Do you really have to stifle your urge for something you have coveted for a long time just because the vendor refuses to give it to you for 50 bucks and wanted 55 bucks instead? Do you have to eat icky fast food everyday and risk health problems just to save a few bucks per day? Are you so destitute that you have to give up your love of reading or pampering yourself in a spa once every other month just because these are luxury items that you can live without? I consider these folks slaves of money. They are so consumed by their desire to "save money" that they have simply forgotten how to enjoy life's simple pleasures.
On the other hand, I also feel sorry for those people who are ruled by the $$$ they see. They have to have stuff that are bigger, better and more expensive, no matter how unnecessary or how costly it is. These folks are ruled by their money as well.
At the end of the day, there has to be a balance between the quality of the life and the means to achieve it. You do have to be reasonable in terms of how you achieve quality, but quality of life should never be sacrificed just because you're paranoid about spending a few additional bucks. After all, at the end of the day, do you prefer living a full, complete and happy life or end up regretting that you have consistently let opportunities pass, in the name of "saving money for the future?"
... I happen to agree with him.
Think about it. Do a few pesos really matter in the big picture? Do you really have to stifle your urge for something you have coveted for a long time just because the vendor refuses to give it to you for 50 bucks and wanted 55 bucks instead? Do you have to eat icky fast food everyday and risk health problems just to save a few bucks per day? Are you so destitute that you have to give up your love of reading or pampering yourself in a spa once every other month just because these are luxury items that you can live without? I consider these folks slaves of money. They are so consumed by their desire to "save money" that they have simply forgotten how to enjoy life's simple pleasures.
On the other hand, I also feel sorry for those people who are ruled by the $$$ they see. They have to have stuff that are bigger, better and more expensive, no matter how unnecessary or how costly it is. These folks are ruled by their money as well.
At the end of the day, there has to be a balance between the quality of the life and the means to achieve it. You do have to be reasonable in terms of how you achieve quality, but quality of life should never be sacrificed just because you're paranoid about spending a few additional bucks. After all, at the end of the day, do you prefer living a full, complete and happy life or end up regretting that you have consistently let opportunities pass, in the name of "saving money for the future?"
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
I Left My Heart in Sydney
Working in a multinational company for the past 7 years has given me travel privileges that most people only dream about. I have traveled several times to a total of 14 cities in 5 continents at the company’s expense no less – Guangzhou, Beijing, Shanghai, Singapore, Kobe, Bangkok, Mumbai, Taipei, Hong Kong, Costa Rica, Cincinnati, Dubai, Newcastle, and most recently Sydney.
Sadly, I became quite travel-weary after the 6th trip or so. Somehow I ended up actually dreading at the thought of another business trip. Mainly this is because I know I am just going to see 3 locations only: 1) airport 2) office 3) hotel. For me, business trips also often mean long stopovers in the airport, mixed up travel and hotel reservations and doing your “real work” in the hotel after office hours of full day meetings. As you can imagine, the picture I’ve painted is not exactly what I would call fun.
Recently though, a close friend of mine convinced me to stop these negative thoughts and still try to enjoy the new place. I am glad I listened to him. If not, I would have just attempted to just work, work and work. I wouldn’t have realized what a delightful place Sydney is.
Originally, I was actually a bit apprehensive about my trip to Australia. I’ve heard some horrific stories about how deep the racial discrimination is in Australia, especially towards Asians and Chinese. To say I didn’t have high expectations of the trip would be an understatement.
Surprisingly, I found the people there to be quite friendly and interesting. Other than the fact that the immigration officers were too paranoid about the tourists bringing in some stuff that would pollute and corrupt the land (they went through each and every single thing in the luggage – even your undies!) AND the fact that they couldn't understand my accent, they were quite nice. It was indeed a pleasant surprise.
Although I only had a sum total of less than 6 hours to actually see some parts of Sydney other than my office, hotel and airport, these are the top 5 things I like about the city:
1. Views
The view in Sydney is absolutely breathtaking. I could spend the whole day just sitting by the bay, listening to the sounds of the waves crashing to the shore and talking about nonsense stuff with a friend. Sydney is one of those cities that look magnificent whether day or night.
2. Weather
Although Sydney has 4 seasons, the weather is something that you can actually live in, without worrying that you might just end up freezing to death or dropping dead on the street from heat stroke. I had the fortune of being there at its nicest time – not too cold, not too hot. But the locals say that the coldest it can actually get is about 12 degrees Celsius, which is not too bad.
3. Population
Although Sydney is a bustling modern city, it still is roomy enough for one not to feel too crowded. Even though there are lots of tourists around, you can actually have a photo of you in front of the Harbour Bridge or Sydney Opera House without sharing it with at least 10 other tourists. It is not too garishly lighted up nor it is too dull. It has modern buildings, but also retains the classic architecture. It is a perfect mix of city and suburbs.
4. Relaxing atmosphere
Unlike most cities, Sydney has a very relaxed and easygoing atmosphere about them. It gives the impression that the people there still find time to enjoy the simple pleasures in life. I think this is especially important when you start thinking about raising a family or doing something other than just climbing the corporate ladder.
5. Great food
There is a variety of great food – seafood, pizza and pasta, Chinese takeout, Japanese, etc. The choices are endless.
I am definitely visiting Australia again within the next few years - even at my personal expense if need be. And this time, I’ll make sure I have more than 6 hours to enjoy this wonderful city. :P
Awesome, dude!
Sadly, I became quite travel-weary after the 6th trip or so. Somehow I ended up actually dreading at the thought of another business trip. Mainly this is because I know I am just going to see 3 locations only: 1) airport 2) office 3) hotel. For me, business trips also often mean long stopovers in the airport, mixed up travel and hotel reservations and doing your “real work” in the hotel after office hours of full day meetings. As you can imagine, the picture I’ve painted is not exactly what I would call fun.
Recently though, a close friend of mine convinced me to stop these negative thoughts and still try to enjoy the new place. I am glad I listened to him. If not, I would have just attempted to just work, work and work. I wouldn’t have realized what a delightful place Sydney is.
Originally, I was actually a bit apprehensive about my trip to Australia. I’ve heard some horrific stories about how deep the racial discrimination is in Australia, especially towards Asians and Chinese. To say I didn’t have high expectations of the trip would be an understatement.
Surprisingly, I found the people there to be quite friendly and interesting. Other than the fact that the immigration officers were too paranoid about the tourists bringing in some stuff that would pollute and corrupt the land (they went through each and every single thing in the luggage – even your undies!) AND the fact that they couldn't understand my accent, they were quite nice. It was indeed a pleasant surprise.
Although I only had a sum total of less than 6 hours to actually see some parts of Sydney other than my office, hotel and airport, these are the top 5 things I like about the city:
1. Views
The view in Sydney is absolutely breathtaking. I could spend the whole day just sitting by the bay, listening to the sounds of the waves crashing to the shore and talking about nonsense stuff with a friend. Sydney is one of those cities that look magnificent whether day or night.
2. Weather
Although Sydney has 4 seasons, the weather is something that you can actually live in, without worrying that you might just end up freezing to death or dropping dead on the street from heat stroke. I had the fortune of being there at its nicest time – not too cold, not too hot. But the locals say that the coldest it can actually get is about 12 degrees Celsius, which is not too bad.
3. Population
Although Sydney is a bustling modern city, it still is roomy enough for one not to feel too crowded. Even though there are lots of tourists around, you can actually have a photo of you in front of the Harbour Bridge or Sydney Opera House without sharing it with at least 10 other tourists. It is not too garishly lighted up nor it is too dull. It has modern buildings, but also retains the classic architecture. It is a perfect mix of city and suburbs.
4. Relaxing atmosphere
Unlike most cities, Sydney has a very relaxed and easygoing atmosphere about them. It gives the impression that the people there still find time to enjoy the simple pleasures in life. I think this is especially important when you start thinking about raising a family or doing something other than just climbing the corporate ladder.
5. Great food
There is a variety of great food – seafood, pizza and pasta, Chinese takeout, Japanese, etc. The choices are endless.
I am definitely visiting Australia again within the next few years - even at my personal expense if need be. And this time, I’ll make sure I have more than 6 hours to enjoy this wonderful city. :P
Awesome, dude!
Sunday, April 1, 2007
Monthly Pledge - April 2007
I’ve noticed that some blogger authors start each month with different things – some talk about birthdays of the people they know for the month or update their disclaimer policies. Others just treat it as any other normal day. After thinking about it, I’ve decided to start my first blog of each month with a specific theme, but simple enough such that it is sustainable.
I will record down 3 straightforward pledges each month – something that will improve all that truly matter to me – my family and friends, myself, my career and skills development, etc. I will not attempt anything supernatural or unrealistic. Anybody catching me not meeting any of them – feel free to kick my shins or give me a scathing message.
1. Communicate with my close friends at least once a week (whether email or phone). NOTE: Short texts do not count.
2. Create at least 2 blogs each week. Hopefully I'll be so hooked that it will translate to more.
3. Spend at least 30 minutes using the treadmill at least 2x a week. NOTE: Speed should not be for babies and old ladies.
I just hope I don’t end up eating my hat if I find myself not following everything to the T. Hehe
I will record down 3 straightforward pledges each month – something that will improve all that truly matter to me – my family and friends, myself, my career and skills development, etc. I will not attempt anything supernatural or unrealistic. Anybody catching me not meeting any of them – feel free to kick my shins or give me a scathing message.
1. Communicate with my close friends at least once a week (whether email or phone). NOTE: Short texts do not count.
2. Create at least 2 blogs each week. Hopefully I'll be so hooked that it will translate to more.
3. Spend at least 30 minutes using the treadmill at least 2x a week. NOTE: Speed should not be for babies and old ladies.
I just hope I don’t end up eating my hat if I find myself not following everything to the T. Hehe
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