sansidaan

Scientists claim 'blue balls rain' mystery solved...

2012-02-06T22:05:00.000+11:00

This just in from Yahoo7 yesterday. Another mystery happening on Earth...

"Scientists claim to have solved the mystery behind the strange blue jelly balls which 'rained' down on the garden of a UK resident a week ago.

Researchers at Bournemouth University say the mysterious balls were merely a common substance found in nappies.

Steve Hornsby of Dorset was left puzzled when a torrent of gooey balls rained from the sky during a hailstorm.

Hornsby spotted about a dozen balls in his garden after the storm and scooped them into a jar out of curiosity.

The former aircraft engineer described the balls as having an exterior shell with a “softer inner but no smell".
While some speculated the bizarre droppings were eggs of a marine creature, others went as far as to say that they were “the bodily secretions of angels”.

But research assistant Josie Pegg has confirmed the substance was sodium polyacrylate, commonly used in gardening or agriculture to improve soil, as well used in nappies.

"Speculation on the nature of the mystery jelly balls has provided much entertainment, but now that we have possession of a sample we can rule out some of the early guesses," Pegg told the Daily Mail.Though it’s not clear how the balls landed in Hornsby's garden, Pegg said it could be a result of "someone having a clear-out…and chucked them over the fence".

Charice for Preview Magazine Jan/Feb 2012 Issue...

2012-01-17T23:36:00.000+11:00

Ok ok, so Charice is on the Jan/Feb New Year's issue of Preview Magazine from the Phils. I won't even comment on it since I know the whole world is already doing that on the web. Siguro mga pintasero.hehehe Talaga naman o, mga Pilipino talaga. 'Alang magawa.

But if you have to twist my arm and make me make a comment, all I would say is, "Good on you Charice. Bravo Preview!!! The cover looks GREAT!!!"

Come on. I know we all wish that, once in our lives, we could have our own photographer, photo stylist, make-up artist and our own personal Graphic Designer who could make us look different and not to mention GREAT like this in a photograph. So that we can plaster it all over our walls, and let me not forget... Facebook.

I've always loved how magazines can turn someone ordinary looking, into a model/goddess.

I've just flicked through a copy I bought in Manila. Ate and Amby are right. We don't read the articles in Preview anymore. We look at the fashion and the accessories and the beauty stuff, note the prices and then that's what they give to me on the list on my Manila flights to hunt for.hahaha

I was pretty amazed at some of the stuff in there like the bags and how affordable they quite are, if you save enough for them. If I was rich, I'd give these as presents.

Preview if you're reading this, take note, one page for Preview Man is not enough. In fact, why don't you make a whole magazine for Men??? You do it so well for the women, I'm sure you can think of something of the same nature, but catered for Men. Enough to challenge the likes of international magazines like GQ, Mens Uno, Details and Esquire. I've just been very disappointed with the covers Esquire Philippines is coming up with. Garage is too young and Metro HiM died. *sadly* We need something substantial for the Filipino Men. We NEED Preview Men!

Just to finish this entry off. Loved a few things on this issue as I quickly perused through it:
Charice's and the D&G hair on p.12. Ate and Ambie should get that hair. It's so modelo I love it! The colours of pastel blue and purple in the 'Candy Land' page. Ramp's new slashed jackets on p.20. If I could get my sisters to wear this at work, panalo tayo. The 'Great Whites' page p.24 especially the Jersey cape by Celline for P2500 and the Max Marlaw outfit with the skirt. Pussybow dress and belt on p.34. Ambie o...very Korean. Why doesn't anyone wear that skirt style by Bottega Veneta on p.40??? I think it's cool. 'Preview Men' p.44. Awesome. This page needs an extension Preview!!! Nifty roll-up bag by Space Encounter P1200 p.47. Hmmm dunno if I'd pay that much for a food bag, but it's cool. The antlers on p.49. Where can I get those man? 'Top Ten Collections' shoot by Roy Macam p81. Roy, I went to your Tumblr page and google imaged you. Dude I love your work!!! I'm a fan!!! Can I work for you?hehehe Especially the shot you did for Ezra Santos sa LRT and the Ronaldo Arnaldo shot. Angelic? The modern take on Filipinina??? Awesome. Did you know I wanted to do something like this for my major at Uni back in the days. For my project I was going to produce ads for 'Bench' kuno but in tricycle etc to capture the essence of the Philippines. You did it man. You lived my dream shots in Quiapo and surrounds. Bravo!!! And for the 'Fashion Watch 2012' p.92, Dennis Lustico's bottom middle dress for Ambie's wedding. JC Buendia's bottom page dress in beige. Classic dude!!! (I don't know about the green's though mate :- / ) Francis Libran's beige dress top right. I dunno for what, but someone could pull that off nicely somehow. It's nice. Philip Rodriuez's purple dresses. Again, ideas for the wedding. Jojie Lloren's yellow dress middle middle shot. Wedding. Nice. Oh and Preview going digital and introducing them barcodes (which I've never known how to use) Can I google or YouTube how to use the barcodes on my mobile??? But yes, go Preview. Be the leader of new things. Keep raising the bar for Philippine fashion.

Things that threw me off my chair...as in WTef man for this issue:

The 'My Touch Love' shoot p.106 by Mark Nicdao. No offense Mark, it was weak. Plus who'd wear those clothes??? Shouldn't magazines promote shoots and clothes that people would actually wear? Or is this supposed to be art? And for the 'Fashion Watch 2012' on p.92, Joel Escober, what's missing here? Something's lacking. JC Buendia, dude I dunno about the green. Very Bali, very old yuck. Francis Libran's blue dress. Hala! Lagot ka kay Lola. Sampal ang abot mo pag sinuot mo yan!!!hahaha Jerome Lorico. Dude...WTef??? Seriously? Tribal got through? And just in total, I dunno why I didn't find a single lady in that shoot pretty? They have the cheek bones and the thin thing going, just not pretty. Wala sa kanila. And Preview...besides for p.40, what happened to your page numbers??? There's no page numbers in your magazine??? Like you'd read my post at all.

And there goes my P150. *bow*

PS. When I get time, I'll revamp this entry and find pics.

Editorial: Martha Streck by Manuel Nogueira for Elle Brazil January 2012...

2012-01-17T22:18:00.001+11:00

Martha Streck for Elle Brazil January 2012 shot by Manuel Nogueira and styled by Rita Lazzarotti. Hair & Make Up by Celso Ferrer images editing by Clayton Carneiro.

I don't usually feature fashion here, just coz. But I love mermaid effect of these clothes and how they were shot by the waterside. I love the 1st image the most.

Pics & notes from: Art8amby's Blog

War with the Banks...

2012-01-17T17:33:00.000+11:00

I was so looking forward to a good pay packet this last payday. But my war with the banks has gotten me robbed of a good amount of dolliares. Shit. I'm so pissed off.

So my dream of living comfortably and paying off the people I owe money to has now once again been put on hold. I've had to prioritise once more on what's important and pay them off first.

My New Years resolution to 'Save Save Save!!!' for January has just been met. I've paid a considerable amount on a Credit Card that I'm hoping to have paid off by the end of April. The two Savings account that is yielding some good interest rate is paid to it's minimum. I wish I could put more money on my savings, but that will have to wait.I've also JUST managed to pay what I owe to my two investment properties in the Philippines. (though I so wish it's getting rented so I don't could have that extra $450 in my pocket a month) I've very slowly started to pay off my Sister to whom I owe a huge amount of money to and at the same time, I've managed to buy a good present for my Sister-in-law, have enough money for gas, can get my license renewed and hopefully grab a good meal for my Singapore trip next week.

All I can say is..."PHEW!!!" *wipes forehead.

The next challenge comes in two weeks when February comes. I'm a bit afraid since I have been on Reserve this month which means less pay. :(

Report to you more next month.

January comps...

2012-01-08T23:16:00.000+11:00

So to heed to my wish to join more competitions, I've done a few things from the beginning of the year.

I entered the 31 Million Lotto Draw for the New Years. The only problem is, I can't seem to find my lotto ticket. *shucks* I could be a millionaire by now and I don't know it!? :/

I've sucked up my pride and have collected a few Coke stickers with the empty bottles I've come across with. I still haven't won the 50k draw, but I have collected a free movie ticket. Yay!!! One for me...

Nova 96.9 has been giving away $100 last week. I've tried numerous times, and have gotten through, but never the 1st caller. At least I've been trying eh...

Up next:

* Nova will be giving away 2012 prizes in the coming week from tomorrow. Oh man oh man will I be ringing for that!!!

* When I get my next pay, I shall enter another draw for Boystown. Maybe I can win a house in the Gold Coast or something...*fingers crossed*

Syndey Festival First Day...

2012-01-07T20:47:00.002+11:00

New Years Resolutions...

2012-01-01T00:30:00.000+11:00

* Be open to new experiences...
* Pay off my debts...
* Save Save Save...
* Join more competitions...
* Open a business..

Happy New Year for 2012...

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000+11:00

Happy Happy New Year to everyone!!!

My special wish this year is for 'Great Health' for my family and friends with the blessings of God and to a better flying line at work.

What's yours?

Happy 60th Mum...

2011-11-24T15:15:00.001+11:00

11-11-11...

2011-11-11T11:11:00.000+11:00

Today is the Eleventh day of the Eleventh month of the year Eleven. So on the Eleventh minute of the Eleventh hour...

I made a special wish. *wish it comes true* ;P

Hong Kong Sale on the A380...

2011-11-10T15:00:00.003+11:00

I've started wondering why they we're in a rush to hire new crew for the A380 all of a sudden. And guess what pops in my mailbox?!?

"Fly Qantas A380 to Hong Kong on selected flights and enjoy non-stop relaxation

From 15 January 2012,* our award winning A380 will fly four times a week from Sydney direct to Hong Kong, a city that never sleeps".

It was all a rumour a few months ago when I spoke to one of the Captains of the A380 on one of our Perth flights. And well, sometimes, rumours comes true. I guess Frankfurt comes next then? Hmmm... These are exciting times for the A380 crew who must be sick to death of LAs and Singapores. (and the once in a blue moon Londons) Something new to add to their list of 'What-to-dos...' eh.

Yun nga lang. Kagabi, meron kaming kasamang isang crew na nag-wo-work nuon sa A380. Sabi nya para daw silang military at merong palaging nano-nood sa ginagawa nila. Yak!!! Katakot. Parang di ka na pwedeng makapag-relax. Eh dito sa amin, talagang relax ka unless sira-ulo yung manager mo o kaya merong isang crew na may topak.hahaha We'll see. Sana mag-hire na sila sa Sydney.

Christmas Wish List...

2011-11-03T20:45:00.001+11:00

* $50 Gift Card from Typo. Lurv lurv this store...

* A Year Subscription to GQ Magazine Australia and the US. These are uber cool men's magazine and the only one I really read.

* A Year Subscription to Real Living Magazine. I like the concept of this home magazine. Something that I know I will inspire to in my future projects.

* A Year Subscription to Frankie Magazine (and when Smith Magazine takes off). Frankie just really inspires me artistically (even if it's a gurl mag.hehe)

* A Year Subscription to Monocle Magazine. It's artistic, it's insightful, it designy, full of travel and photography ideas and super uber smart. What else can I ask for in a magazine.

Midnight Sun in Iceland..

2011-10-29T21:18:00.000+11:00

Midnight Sun | Iceland from SCIENTIFANTASTIC on Vimeo.

Thanks to ScientiFantastic, he/she has inspired me more to start packing my bags for my big Northern trip for my 35th Birthday next year. Ok ok, so I'm getting waaayy ahead of myself but man, this looks A-W-E-S-O-M-E!!!

Everyone's invited!!!hahaha

Happy Halloween Qantas...

2011-10-29T20:13:00.000+11:00

Seems like Halloween has come early for us at work.haha (no laughing matter I know)

We've recieved our text messages from the company, everyone I'm close to have texted me their concerns, (and vice versa), I've read the message from Sam on our CIS programmes and I'm still confused and am still in disbelief. This is so Tiger of us. joke Some of my friends are stuck in other ports poor things. But I'm lucky it's my day-off. Read on...

"Qantas is grounding its entire fleet and locking out its staff in response to unions' industrial action.

The airline is fighting with its pilots, ground staff and engineers over pay, conditions and the outsourcing of jobs overseas.

Qantas boss Alan Joyce as of 8pm (AEDT) Monday, but the fleet would be grounded immediately.
Both the international and domestic fleet have been grounded indefinitely.

"We are locking out until the unions withdraw their extreme claim and reach an agreement with us," Mr Joyce said.

"It's an unbelievable decision, it's a very hard decision ... we have no alternative. This is the fastest way to ensure the airline gets back in the air."

Mr Joyce said his hand had been tipped by the impossible demands of three unions.

"They are trashing our strategy and our brand," he said.

"They are deliberately destabilising the company and there is no end in sight."

The move comes as a result of a long-running industrial impasse between Qantas and three unions: the Australian and International Pilots Association (AIPA), the Transport Workers Union (TWU) and the Australian Licenced Aircraft Engineers Association (ALAEA).

Mr Joyce said if the industrial action continued, Qantas would have no choice but to shut down its business "part by part".

QantasLink and Jetstar will not be grounded.

Government concerned
The Federal Government was told about Qantas' plan for the first time this afternoon.
Transport Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed frustration, saying the Government is extremely concerned about the future of Qantas, its workforce, and also the travelling public.

Mr Albanese says he is disappointed by Qantas' decision "made on a Saturday morning with notice to the Government mid-afternoon, one day after an annual general meeting."
"I would hope the parties to this dispute act like adults," he told a press conference this afternoon.
"[The Government] remains of the view, that with a little bit of commonsense and acknowledgment that there is a common interest between management and employees a solution can be found."

Mr Albanese says the Government played a role in facilitating discussions between Qantas and the employees, but at no stage has there been a request for government intervention.

He says the Government will be making an application to Fair Work Australia over the dispute.

The aircraft engineers union says it is not surprised Qantas would take such extreme action as grounding its fleet and locking out workers.

"I think this is an extreme measure for the CEO and airline to take given we've cancelled our industrial action for the next three weeks," ALAEA federal secretary Steve Purvinas said.
Refunds, ticket transfers

Mr Joyce said he was sorry the course of action had become necessary but the ball was now in the unions' court.

"They must decide just how badly they want to hurt Qantas, their members ... and the travelling public," he said.

The airline said at 5pm (AEDT) on Saturday there were 64 aircraft in the air, 36 domestic and 28 international carrying more than 7,000 passengers.

In total 108 aircraft will be grounded in 22 airports around the world.

The airline will offer hotel accommodation and alternative flights to those who are mid-journey and cannot get home when the grounding takes effect.

And there will be refunds and ticket transfers available to passengers whose flights are cancelled.

Qantas will keep passengers updated on the situation via its website, Facebook page and Twitter.

The airline says 13,305 passengers are booked to travel on Qantas planes from overseas ports to Australia in the next 24 hours.

About 1,310 international passengers may be at international airports now waiting for their flight to depart.

Earlier, Mr Joyce said within a year, resulting in thousands of jobs lost, if its industrial disputes continue into 2012."

So my question to Alan is how this will help us by grounding all of us in our Ports. I'm sure they have thought about this, I just wish we're on the know. How will this affect our passengers perception of us? And my last and ultimate question is...how long is the lockdown?

Sa akin, ok lang. Gusto ko nga pag may drama sa work.hehe Sana ako din, stuck sa Singapore o kaya sa Manila. Sayang. :(

Skin Food...

2011-10-26T22:26:00.002+11:00

Door of Opportunity...

2011-10-25T10:12:00.002+11:00

So I'm a bit torn.

A 'Door of Opportunity' has just opened for my division at work to move from Domestic to Longhaul. This is quite rare since we are at the birth of this Division and though a contract has been drawn, nothing seems to be etched in stone besides the basics. This is the 'ULTIMATE' dream for me and it's the goal I've been wanting since I was 18. This is why I applied for the job so that I can travel all over the world!!! But if I am to have it, I am to have it in...Sydney. (where my family and home is)

When I first started this job, everyone had told me to:
a) Never listen to rumours (though I believe these are the bases of decisions in this industry) and
b) Things always changes in this industry

So the latter had just happened. When I started, the only opportunity for us to move to LH was to make a bold move to the UK Base which I have considered a lot. But my best friend had advised me to pay off any and all debts here in Australia first before making the move to ease you of any monatary problems. Therefore you can enjoy your two years in the UK and actually afford to see Europe. And that's what I'm doing. But that's off topic...

Let's get back to why I am torn.

I'm torn because to take this opportunity (which only has a 7 day period by the way, applications ending at the end of the month), is because we/I would need to relocate to Melbourne. Freak.

I've weighed up the pros and cons and there are two things that are hindering my decision:
a) Rent. With my current position, I can't afford rent. I have too much on my plate to be even thinking about paying someone else's property. If I'm going to give that money to anyone...I'd rather give it to my family.
b) Seeing family. The amount of time and money having to fly back and forth to Sydney is another money down the drain. Look, I know they're worth it, but the sphere of concern is somewhere else.

Don't get me wrong. I have a good bond with Melbourne and I like what I see there. My family would probably get me to go since my sister, brother and Dad have all done it. Even I've done it when I moved to Japan. But...

I think the flying will stay the same for the time being, until all airports around the world gets their acts together and build an aerobridge that will cater for the A380s. Until then, the flying will stay with LA, Singapore and the once in a blue moon London. Possibility of flying to Hong Kong and Frankfurt are still very far off in the future since there is the London Base. That's it. Two destinations.

Time is ticking.

I don't know if this opportunity will ever be offered here in Sydney. As far as I know, they only do this when they are short and obviously they are short in Melbourne. It's going to be for 2 years and I have no idea if I'll ever get to relocate back home if I do this anytime soon.

Any opinions???

Happy Happy Birthday Bro...

2011-10-23T16:06:00.001+11:00

Today is my Kuya's 39th Birthday. Happy Happy Birthday bro!!! I still haven't bought you a present, so hopefully China will have it for you.hahaha

Kuya is still ever vibrant. Maybe thanks to his new (-ish) wife Ambie.hehe He still has the same laugh and the same humour. I love that about him. And he's the best Kuya in the world!!! He's always there when I need him. (and he gets pissed when I leave my mobile at home because it's our new lifeline) Sorry you had to fork out that money for the broken key (well you broke it really, but still) in the Subaru. Thanks for coming for me when the battery died at Sam's Warehouse. Thanks for forking out the money for the new tires and for forking the credit card out for the new air-con for my new house. You're so awesome this way and if I haven't told you that I'm really glad you're my Kuya, I am. I'll always dedicate that 'Dear Kuya' song for you by Sugarfree. (I heard that song when I was still living in Japan ages ago) And I love you. I do.

So pray that I get that tax money soon so I can pay you back before you start charging me interests.hahaha And I hope that I can start helping you out by next year when my wallet starts breathing again. Maybe a new Cube car. Maybe more discounted holidays for you. Maybe maybe maybe...hehe

So here's a few pics of your tiny celebration at Pancakes at Wetherill Park. Man, those 'Devil Delight's' are pure evil!!!hehehe Hope you enjoyed your mini banana (and fingers crossed they go back to $1 a kilo soon. Not.) and hope I get out of this airport reserve so we can blow your cake when I get home.

Let's celebrate properly when Mikael and Ate gets back oks.

Happy Happy Birthday again!!! At the speed of our age, I always pray for your good health and of course happiness, and may you have your 1st baby before 40 catches up with you. (and let's hope it's a girl.haha But also a boy to continue the legacy.hehe) Kudos.

Miracle Day...

2011-10-20T00:32:00.001+11:00

We had 1 passenger!!! Can you believe it??? One freakin' passenger.

Yes, that was the most 'epic' ending to my 4 sector/leg of my 10 hour day today. And we thought we had it bad already, with the first three legs being full all the time. After the third leg, all we wanted to do was go home and sleep. And who could imagine that???

So... out of my one year (almost) of flying, this is the BEST flight to date. THE BESTEST EVA!!!hahaha We almost ferried the plane home. 'Ferrying' is a term we use when a flight attendant (or two) are allocated a duty where they, along with the Captain and the First Officer, take an empty plane to a certain destination to get fixed or have been fixed and needs to return to it's original port to operate again. This is a very rare occasion.

And since we only had 1 passenger to take home, we almost 'ferried' it home. Almost.

Events like these should be celebrated and embraced. Do not fight it, embrace it!!! So I had sugar coated almonds (which I'm stirring away from this month.) But they were healthy and I had only a few. Embraced, I say!!!

This only really happened because our flight was running super late. And to meet curfew in Sydney and avoid having to put up a hundred passenger into a hotel because they missed their flight, ground staff have mustered all their will to fit as much passengers on other flights headed to Sydney and empty our late plane coming into Melbourne. Unfortunately, the so called 1 passenger, missed that flight and they couldn't locate him, and so they placed him on our flight. What a very very fortunate man to have traveled by himself on a 767 aircraft. Wow, what an experience.

How I wish more things like this happen to me.hahaha Send it out to the Universe.

Dear Universe,
More like this please. Amen. :D

Love, Dan

Outsourced...

2011-10-15T01:08:00.001+11:00

Freak we are slow. Like super. I can't believe this show has already finished their 1st Season in the US and we're just starting??? Let me explain

I was like doing my new *Thursday evening TV marathon (which I haven't done in yonkers cuz of the lack of GREAT shows oh and our missing TV device decoder yadda yadda yadda) when they premiered the pilot episode of Outsourced here in Australia last night. I was off my face!!! Ok, not really. But I liked the premise of the show. Somewhat.

Blame it on the Filo-ness in me where 6 degrees x 6 degrees x 6 degrees of separation has me somehow connected to some poor bugger working in a Call Centre in the Philippines. I shouldn't mock. It's a decent job and it puts food on the table dammit and it also pays the bills. Plus, 6 Degrees is much closer than one thinks. My cousin actually does work in a Call Centre and she's doing well. (I think?) That's one reason.

I liked it too because...c'mon...which one of us (adults) haven't had that experience of calling one of our service providers (may it be your mobile or your TV connection or your bank) and got transferred to someone in India who is trying so darn hard to put that ocker accent??? Raise your hand and feet? O da ba. So I felt I somehow connected to the show. Kayo?

Outsourced is set in a call center in Mumbai, India, where an American novelties company has recently outsourced its order processing. A lone American manages the call center and must explain American popular culture to his employees as he tries to understand Indian culture.

It was a good way to see the other side of the fence.

So here's just a few of my thoughts. At first, I thought our hero, American Todd, was a likeable guy. He is, but...mate, he can be a tool at times too. Like the hair. Lose the khakis. My fave characters would probably sway on talkative Gupta and super shy and quiet Madhuri. In fact, I think I relate best to Madhuri because we are both quiet and super dooper soft spoken and yet we are achievers. I cacked when Gupta danced "Don't cha" by the Pussycat Dolls and then when Madhuri screamed silently at the talking deer in their work kitchen. A-W-E-S-O-M-E!!! Watch the clips below:

*NB. Thursday TV Marathon composes of The Slap on ABC at 8:30pm, followed by the new Amazing Race on 7 at 9:30. I'm rooting for the ski dudes, they're so likeable and down to earth and they seem to be always chasing the fun and there's just no hassle dude. So go win the million dollares guys!!!

And which was evidently followed by Outsourced. Luv luv new Thursday TV Marathon night.

*NB II. Alex Demitriades who plays Greek cousin Harry who initiates 'The Slap', was on our flight tonight from Syd-Mel. He was very low key, slept in economy and was uber fashionable. Plus he said hello to me. :)

R-E-G-I-O-N-A-L-S...

2011-10-11T22:36:00.000+11:00

So eto ang chika kahapon. Exciting 'to dahil eto na ang iniintay ko at kung totoo ngang mangyayari, di hindi na ko kailangang lumipat muna sa LH o 380 dahil pwede muna ako dito at enjoyin' ang Asia daba.'

Ang balita at chismis sa galley ay...*drum rolls*...baka ibalik daw sa aminng mga taga Domestic ang iba pang R-E-G-I-O-N-A-L-S na nawala na sa amin nuon at ibinalik sa LHs. Ano ibig sabihin nito???

Ang ibig sabihin nito ay hindi lang mga Singapores, Manilas at Jakarta ang liliparin namin, but ibabalik sa min ang Hong Kong, Shanghai at Mumbai. At kung mas maswerte pa kami, pati na rin ang Narita. O diba...super super exciting uli.

Ay...sana nga. Please please please...

Dear Lord...

Forest...

2011-10-09T01:08:00.000+11:00

I've been inspired by a few mags of late...for example Monocle, Smith and BUTTT and how they produced their images and their layouts. From ordinary pictures to WOW- Factors. Hence... when I was playing with Adobe Photoshop C3 and some of the pics I've taken with my Xperia i10 Sony Ericson phone, I was taken aback with the results. I'm even patting myself in the back...

Approved!!!

2011-10-06T12:13:00.000+11:00

Let me begin with a shit phone call from CBA. "Good morning Danilo, I'm just calling to tell you that UNFORTUNATELY, your credit card has been DECLINED." Shit. Good morning to you too. :(

That's ok. At least we tried and know that we won't be increasing any of my QFFs anytime soon.hehe

So off I went lazily trying to subo my breakfast and thought of Plan B. Apply for the 55 Day CC Balance Transfer from Westpac. I've NEVER EVER considered banking with Westpac (or St George or HSBC for that matter) Well, until I've heard of their 0.99% Balance Transfer scheme.

Why not eh??? After being declined three times now by the banks...what MORE can I possibly LOSE??? So off I went and applied online. And 20mins later...

A P P R O V E D!!!

Oh my freakin' gawd!?!?! Is this for real??? What the? How the?!?!

And that my friends is how it basically works. There's no harm in asking. If you don't ask...then you don't recieve. Amen.

See pic of offer below just in case you too are in dire straits and in need of a Balance Transfer!!!

Countdown...

2011-10-06T11:48:00.004+11:00

I've just received news that some family member has been diagnosed with diabetes. There's just no way of fighting this disease is there?!? Especially if it's hereditary. Shit. Just need to know how to prevent it and when to catch it early I guess. Would we want to pass it on to our children I wonder. Do we? Hmmmm...

The sadness that I feel in my heart is that now I know...the countdown begins. :(

Daan too???

2011-10-06T02:09:00.001+11:00

I was browsing a web magazine when lo and behold (quelle horror) I find a contributor from Belgium sporting the same original nickname my mother gave me. Farq. Quelle horror!!!

Ma o look...

Oh-Oh Joys!? :C

2011-10-05T21:54:00.000+11:00

What's going on around our work??? Not quite sure really though it's flying for me as usual...

Watch the news feeds:

Peeps aren't Happy-Jans. :(

Save Me...

2011-10-04T19:02:00.000+11:00

This past week, just after doing my tax in Casula and talking to my new accountant Nina, I've had nothing but money in my mind. Not so much about bending over backwards trying to make it, but moreso on "How To Be Smarter" with it, saving and maximizing the idea of collecting points through Flybuys and the QANTAS Frequent Flyer programme. This thought process mainly happens whilst driving to work especially when I'm stuck in ~~efen~~ traffic. Hate hate traffic!!! Hate.

So for example, I thought one way of doing this is when I'm filling up with petrol, which I do in a frequent basis. If I stick loyal to Shell and swipe my Flybuys everytime I fill up, I can earn a point with every $5 I spend. And to earn QANTAS Frequent Flyer at the same time, I can use my credit card that's attached to QFF. The above example can also be applied when shopping at Coles, Target and K-Mart. And if I wasn't with Virgin Mobile, I would've probably been tempted to join Optus who has now also teamed up with QFF. Of course you need to be really smart with this and make sure you keep tabs of how much you're spending and pay off the card before it accrues interest. (duh! Who doesn't know that?)

I knew that ages ago but have fallen to a very bad place once I got a mortgage and lost my CC with ANZ which was linked to my QFF. But I'm slowly starting to breathe and am slowly formalising solutions. Save me...

So here's a few of MY short term solutions:

Plan A: After much research this morning as to which bank has a card that is linked to the QFF Points, has a low interest charge p.a and a low annual fee, the obvious winner was the Commonwealth Bank Awards Credit Card.

With a whopping 1% interest for the first 5 months and an annual fee of only $59 p.a (if you've already got a CBA account), recieving 1.5 points per $1 spent if you use the American Express card and 1 point per $1 when you use the Mastercard...this is a definite definite winner. Plus I was able to speak to a fellow Filipino from CBA who explained a lot about the card. Though there was no promises of approval there.

The catch: I'd need to maximise my use of the card within the first 5 months (especially on my travels and my ticket purchases) and then get rid of the card and then wait for the next good bank offer to come. The waiting game began today if I'd be approved and with the way my credit rating is going....hmmm. :(

Plan B: With over 3k owing to my previous ANZ card, I've (finally) managed to speak to the bank and make some sort of agreement to stop them harassing me over the phone. I have promised to continuously pay it within the next 3 months or before Feb next year. A good way of doing this of course is called a Balance Transfer to another CC from a different bank with 0% interest and a low annual fee. According to creditcardfinder.com.au the best one on offer as of this post is with Westpac's 55 Day CC card with 0.99% on Balance Transfers for 9 months, 0% interest and the first annual fee is exempted. Wow!!! This is such a bargain I can't believe my pants. There must be a catch somewhere in the fine print but where!?hehe I'm contemplating on entertaining this idea once I hear if my CBA application has been approved.

There is also Virgin Australia's Virgin Velocity (with rewards flights) and Citibank have a lower interest rate on offer as low as 0%, but you'd need to watch the annual fee which could easily fall from $45-$99 p.a.

Plan C: Work my ass off and pay all of my debts within the next 6 months so I can get on with paying my other loans, put more money on my mortgage and also pay the rest of the family I owe money to. Yikes! Soweee...

And then I can transfer to the London Base and travel and live a little (more).haha

I can't believe how 'adult' I sound with this post. But in fairness...I do sound a little smarter. Now I just need the banks to approve my applications.haha Or else it's back to the drawing board.

China research...

2011-10-01T12:15:00.000+10:00

So I'm pretty stoked about our upcoming quick getaway to China via Korea and then off to a Brothers and Sisters reunion in Abu Dhabi for my Mums 60th Birthday in November. (and Tita Emmangs too)

I have the travel details kinda figured out, ticket-wise, but I have no idea what we'd be doing in Beijing, China besides seeing the Great Wall of China of course.

Cleaning, Researching, Christmastreeing and the lot...

2011-10-01T11:43:00.003+10:00

Time to seriously clean bits and bits of the house and alikabok is really building up!!! Yuk. Plus this is a GREAT excuse to re-stock my magazines and research about China.

So the GREAT idea is to start at the main casa in the living room, and move from there. If I can squeeze in mowing the lawn, blogging, eating, watching movies and going for a long walk, I'm the champion today!!!haha

NOTE: Big NO-CARBS diet starts again today. I'm not sure how far I want to take it this time (just like last Easter Lent) or to just lose a few pounds. Hmmmm...

Dynamic Views? WTef am I doing???

2011-10-01T00:39:00.001+10:00

So I'm trying the new Dynamic Views by Blogger. I have no real idea what I'm doing or what I want to do with it so bare with me. I like the basic design of what layout I've chosen, which is the 'Magazine' template, but feel free to play with the headings especially the 'Snapshot' which is kinda fun. Also, take the time to watch the vid below and capture the essence of the real fun things you can do on my blog.

I'm still toying with the idea if I want to add 'adsense' and earn a bit $caching-caching$ for my coin purse on the side and what not. I've just been to "World Stewardes Crews" blog (@http://worldscrews.blogspot.com/) and love love love what they've done to their site. It's something I sorta want to aim for, but I want to incorporate it all with this new 'Dynamic View' Templates.

So Blogger if you're reading this, come on down and send me one of your designers to help this poor bugger eerrr...Blogger out.hehe

Eto na...A380 daw naghi-hire na...

2011-09-30T22:47:00.004+10:00

Minsan talaga, masarap lang makinig sa mga usap-usapan at chismisan ng mga kasama ko.

Katulad kanina, sa staff room namin sa Brisbane habang iniintay namin ang susunod na duty namin ng isang oras at kalahati, na-bigkas na lang ng isa naming kasama na nag-o-offer na daw sila ngayon ng transfer for 2 years sa A380.

No efen way!!! *nahulog tuloy ako sa upuan ko* Oo daw, nasa CIS programme kanina.

Opportunites for LH&SHQF Crew. We are inviting Expressions of Interest for a number of transfer opportunities:

2year fixed-term transfers:
LH mainline to 380 (BFA and FA only)
LH to BNE base
SH to 380
SH to LH BNE base

Permanent transfers:
LH to SH transfer

Applications close 17 October.

Na-excited tuloy ako. Malapit na mga Ate't Kuya. Eto na ang pagkakataon kong isang taon ko nang iniintay. Ang makalipat sa Longhaul para International FA na ko. Eto na eto na.

Ok ok, kailangan kong mag-relax dahil sa QAL palang ino-offer. Ibig sabihin nito, kina lolo't lola muna nila ino-offer ang transfer. Pati na rin sa mga Longhaulers na lumipat na sa Domestic.

Ngayon, ganito ang naisip ko. I-o-offer muna nila sa QAL yung position. At pag wala masyadong tumanggap, kami ng mga QD ang isusunod for sure!!! Wahaws, malapit na!!! Abangan na.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Eto pa. So uwi kaagad ako at pinuntahan ko yung website namin para lang tingnan ko kung ano talaga ang storya.

Yan tuloy. Napadaan ako sa mga e-mails namin na wala namang nagbabasa. Nainganyo tuloy akong basahin dahil meron pala silang pinadalang report sa amin ang kasaysayan ng aming kompanya sa susunod na limang taon at ang mga plano nila para manatili kaming lumilipad kasabay lahat ng aming mas magaling na competitors.

Kung di kayo nagbabasa o ala pang nagsasabi sa inyo, ang aming pangulong si Alan ay may planong magsimula uli ng bagong companya na linked sa amin saan pa kundi sa Asia, dahil daw duon ang pera ngayon at ang paboritong destination ng mga tao ngayon. Globally daw 30% ng mga taong bumabyahe gamit ang paglipad as sa Asia ang tungo. Biruin nyo nga.

So habang iniisip ko ang mga plano ko para maging International FA, eto ang nabasa ko sa e-mail sa amin. Basahin ang iba't ibang tanong at sagot sa Q&A:

"Will there be further job losses when we launch our airline in Asia?
This is about creating a new airline in Asia. There will be no jobs lost as a result. It will actually provide new opportunities for Australians to work overseas.
Will any new jobs be created for Australians?
There will be opportunities for Australians, along with other nationalities, to work at the new entity."

OMG OMG OMG. Baka eto na ang sagot sa tanong ko???

Kasi ang mga options ko ngayon para maging INT FA:

A. Either lumipat sa London Base at maghirap at maging Int FA duon for 2 years pero starting from sctrach at subukang mag-ipon dun habang nagbabayad ng rent at buibili ng pagkain. Ang maganda lang dito ay merong akong pagkakataong explorin ang Europa na sobrang lapit lang...

B. Kung maari, maging Sydney base pa rin kasama ng mga pamilya ko at lumipat sa A380. Ang problema dito mga kapatid ay ang destination lang namin lagi ay LA at Singapore. Grabe, baka mabano ako dun, kung eto lang ang palagi naming pupuntahan, katulad ng lagi naming paglipad sa Perth. Grabe, masisiraan ka ng ulo. Pero yung nga lang...trabaho lang.

OR

C. Intaying ko nga ang oportunidad na eto para lumipat sa Asia with new and exciting adventures? Magkano naman kaya ang bayad sa min? Baka mas mababa ang sweldo? Patay tayo dyan...

Chismisan sa Galley 28-09...

2011-09-29T22:11:00.004+10:00

So chat na-naman kami ng CSM ko. Chismisan ng mga lalake.

Ang bago daw news ay yung mga ibang aircrafts naming Airbuses o 7-6s Domestically ay lalagyan na ng mga bagong iPads kasi daw mas mura daw ito kesa palitan at ayusin ang mga IFEs at i-plu-plug lang sa likod ng upuan para mapanood na lahat ng mga channels namin.

Ang problema nga lang, eh kung ilang iPads and mananakaw.hahaha

Smith Journal...

2011-09-29T21:40:00.007+10:00

My long sit at the airport today due to the long delays and canceled flights from Melbourne because of the storms had me going super (Lady) gah-gah. After the 5th hour of doing jack all, I just had to get out of the office and do some window shopping. (or something. Aaargghh.)

My quick browse ended up at Watermarks Bookstore (which has tonnes of potential). It's modern and has books, magazines, DVDs & CDs, travel and gift stuff and a nice cafe at the end nice for a good chat and catch up. Yes, Watermarks has lots and lots of potential.

And...*drum rolls*

Discovery of the Day: As QF Staff, we get 10% off everything!!! Including magazines!!! Finally!!! A place where we can get discounts on magazines!!! I've so waited for this day. That's the only thing. Like I said, Watermarks has so much potential. The only thing missing is a stocklist of magazines I actually buy and read. And at the moment, as of today, they only had one magazine I was interested in.

Hello Smith Journal...

The creative team at Frankie Magazine thought they'd create a brother magazine called Smith Journal. I haven't had a chance to buy me a copy yet, but from browsing through it's pages, I think I'm in love. It's a mixture of some of the magazines I love all rolled into one. It's their 1st issue and though I don't think the cover is catchy enough, the pages should speak for itself. Check these out:

And for a bit more sneak peak, head to Broadsheet.

Rainy DVD day...

2011-09-28T16:19:00.001+10:00

Super rainy day here which calls for nothing but a DVD day.

So after much procrastination, I was finally able to say goodbye to Tara and finish the 3rd and Final sSeason of the United States of Tara. I just don't think there was a proper resolution to her problem per se and I don't think there is ever a solution. At the end of the day, the question really was...how many more personalities can she make???

That was just half the day whilst folding the sampay.

I had to follow it up with the Horrible Bosses movie which was quite entertaining. I loved thingos hair.

Esquire Philippines Premiere Issue...

2011-09-24T20:04:00.004+10:00

Everyone's tumblr-ing (don't ask me. I still don't have a FB account...sort of... and now Tumblr? What's the dif between 'Blogspot' and 'Tumblr' and 'Twitter' anyways??? Enlighten me please!!!) the new and 'Premiere' Issue of Esquire Philippines. Well done!!! About time an International Magazine has recognised our potential. And a mens magazine at that. (though a local mag that would hold up it's fort is worth seeing as well.) Ok I digress. There is FHM and Men's Health Philippines too. But I'm talking about fashion and photography and smart articles that would par with Preview. Hmmm...maybe Preview should have a brother mag???

When a GQ Philippines is born, I could die happy. :) Man of simple taste.

I can't truly say I'm a fan of Esquire as I don't buy it. I'm really a GQ kind of guy really. But with the few copies I've had, especially the US and UK edition, I've quite enjoyed the read.

Manny Pacquiao is on the cover. The man of the moment. I don't know if I want to comment. I'm not the biggest fan of boxing nor am I the most patriotic dual Filipino Citizen. Yes, just like Imelda Marcos, another Filipino is known to the world. And he's done well. Proud? Maybe. But he's not in my sphere of concern. Cover material? Hmmm...(kasi di naman ganun ka-gwapo. But then again, I'm after great photography and smart articles) I'll give it a go. Dunno how many struggling Filipinos can afford P195 for a mag though. Well, I mean I know I can.

Can't really comment until I get myself a copy of the issue. I'm glad Pops is going home for the month. At least if I don't get any Manila's next month, he can buy it for me.hehehe

More reason to go back next month. Bring on GQ Philipinnes!!! Yeah!!!

Poseidon...

2011-09-23T12:44:00.005+10:00

Man, Korean-wise, I've been a bad boy!!! >: / I haven't picked up on my lessons from TTMK and I haven't watched any K-Drama since Manny. (methinks) 미안헤 (mi-an-hae) SN: Though I was fully watching KBS World on my last Manila trip. Ask my cousin Mia!!!

Ok, I lie. I'm in and out of watching (still) Athena which is like their Korean version of US Show 24 (just a lot slower, though I give them credit for trying), but it's slowly dying on me as the subs on copy I bought from Cabra is getting all Chinesey and haywired. (we hate that!) It gives me a headache just trying to keep up with it all. So I might need to do my own downloading with proper subs just to keep up with this AWESOME show. I'm fearing for the copy of IRIS that I also bought from the same shop. (IRIS came first before Athena and they're all interlinked I believe. Ask wiki.)

So, I jump to Poseidon. This new action drama that's just started a couple of days ago. I have no idea what the story's all about except for a small excerpt that states:

"This drama is the story of the members life savers of the coast guard.
The drama is based on the special duties of the Korean Coast Guard officers (rescues, terrorism threats, and other special missions) and also their obstacle in life and love. The drama takes its name from the Poseidon Team, a special forces unit of the Marines.

Using the strong bonds of humanity as a basis, and through the challenges faced by the protagonists and their spirit of self-sacrifice, the drama movingly shows the significance of life and the stories of how people overcome obstacles in life."

It has that cool dude from Athena so this shouldn't be half bad. Subs aren't in yet, but it might give me a good op to re-study and just listen to words I can pick up.

Thanks KDrama. Love your work mate!!!

Swissmiss...

2011-09-21T12:17:00.001+10:00

Kuya and Ambie bought a huge tub of Swissmiss on their recent fieldtrip to Coscow at Auburn with a member.

I just had a cup for breakfast. Made me melancholic of the old Sinigang group back way when. We loved this stuff...

My September Playlist...

2011-09-21T12:06:00.003+10:00

It's been awhile since the radio stations have played a bunch of great music enough to create a playlist. Thanks to Nova 96.9, I've been able to keep tabs on them. Here's a list of songs I've been singing at the galley's at every given moment.

1. Moves like Jagger - Maroon 5

Luke, one of our Perth crew kept saying "Dan's got the Moves like Jagger!!!" for nearly 5 hours in our of our Syd-Per trips quite recently and I couldn't get the song out of my head. I just had to learn the words to the chorus. Damn addictive!!!

2. Glad You Came - The Wanted

I think this is one of our Perth RoadTrip song. The Wanted sang this live on one of their radio stations and even Mum was singing to it.

3. Somebody That I Used To Know - Gotye Kimbra

This song is so melodic...

4. Not Over You - Gavin Degraw

Such a relationship song...

5.

Philipp buddy dies ist für Sie.

Mum & Mikael in the backyard...

2011-09-15T10:22:00.000+10:00

This might be the best pic I've taken of Mum and (Shaolin) Mikael in a quick Spring flowers photoshoot in the backyard. Man, I love this pic. It's so happy!!! Pat in the back again...

Happy One Year Anniversary in Flying...

2011-09-14T23:31:00.004+10:00

They say time flies. And in some cases, yes, it did feel like it just flew. Flew.haha Which is what this entry is about I guess.

Happy One Year Flying as a Flight Attendant with QF Dan!!! *woot woot*

I wish I had time to blog all my thoughts and feelings about the whole year but I know I wouldn't finish this entry again. So here goes...

If I was to sum the year in one word, it'd be 'tumultuous'. It's been hard work man.
The year had it's ups and downs. There has been numerous 'UPs' and the flying is definitely 'UP' there or I wouldn't be doing this job!!! The money struggle half of the year is a bit of a downer. But I hadn't had it all bad. Just decisions to live up to being an adult got in the way and bought properties that needed paying.haha With my F/A salary, it wasn't all crash hot. But the struggles and the cup-a-noodles all paid up I guess. I am now just starting to breathe and enjoy my money and life a little bit more, starting with my holiday in Japan & Europe. And now in some Domestic routes such as Perth. We also have Beijing and Abu Dhabi in the works this coming November which I'm particulary excited about!!!

Took my family out to dinner FINALLY today!!! FINALLY!!! I've wanted to do this a year ago but the funds just wasn't enough to enjoy it. So this year it was a MUST. Got to treat them to dinner at our fave pit stop at the Seven Hill RSL. I know it sounds kinda sad that it's at an RSL, but heck we love love this place!!! The Arie is the bomb. Really delish food and the price is amazing!! (except for their cakes & deserts which need a bit of improving) i was going to go for the roasts these evening, but the space in my tummy was quickly filled up by sushis and plenty plenty prawns. Love love prawns, especially if they're that big and all you yum cha cha.hahaha Lucky Mum had some on her plate for me to chump on. Yum!!! The deserts weren't that bad today and the machine coffee was more than enough to finish the celebrations!!! And to top up the celebrations, I tried the pokies today for a bit of fun and some luck and won $11. *woot woot*

My family's been there with me from the start of my dream and they've been more than supportive and they have been super happy for me when I finally achieved my dream!!! They even bought me my first celebratory dinner when I got the job. So I've been slowly giving back by treating them to trips as my way of giving back. Once I've mastered 'Staff Travel' I know I'll be able to give back more and more. Perth was a trial run for all of us, I'm just about to give Papa a trip to the Philippines for Father's Day and his birthday in October. Ate and Mikael can enjoy the cheap-er flights in and out of Ballina to see Papa and Ipe and the same goes for them to come and see us in Sydney. Mikael has another year to enjoy flying for free until he's two. Kuya and Ambie might also head up to Tasmania for Kuya's birthday!!! So all are happy.

I guess the best way for me to really sum up the year is to either put it up in point form or under some headings. So here goes. (forgive me if this entry might take up a few goes to finish. I have a lot in my head and plenty to share):

Top Threes:

Top Three of our Hotels:
1. Jakarta - man, just entering this hotel is jawdropping enough. The huge lobby makes the little girl in me all giddy. And the smell of the hotel makes you think you're in some Downy commercial. There's an amazing chocolate cafe near the lobby that makes you believe there's a piece of Switzerland here somewhere. There are a million channels on their cable TV. The bathroom is made for Kings and you can't come here and miss out on having a bath. Plus free dry cleaning and shoe shine for our uniforms. Winner!!!
2. Brisbane - This hotel is the bomb. It's my favourite out of all our hotels domestically. It's modern and gives you all the freebies in the world that I feel we all as crew deserve. Free gym, free internet, a free drink may it be hot or cold and free apples, newspapers and magazines in the lobby. (the unlimited internet made this a real winner for me) And did I mention how modern this hotel is? Ultra chic. And only minutes away from the city!!! Winner!!!
3. Rydges, Melbourne - Not the biggest fan of Rydges Hotels, but the location of this hotel always makes me giddy. I love opening the curtains in my room and feel that I'm right in the middle of it all. The buildings and the views is awe inspiring. I love leaving it open in the evenings and just stare outside for ages. And the bed!!! The best bed ever!!! So soft and the pillows so fluffy!!!

Best Amenities:
1. Jakarta - they have EVERYTHING!!!!
2. Brisbane - this modern hotel has new ideas and makes showering fun!!! They call their soaps cakes. I'm convinced!!!
3. Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Manila - you get everything like you're in a 5 star hotel as you should. Toothbrushes with Colgate is always a winner for me!!!

Top 3 Eats:
1. Singapore - Food galore in their foodcourts. Calling their foodcourts Food Embassies and decorating them like their libraries is the bomb. You can get great meals here for under $5 and that's a definite winner for me. Starbucks are everywhere which is one of my fave jaunts. The shopping centre under out hotel alone is enough to satisfy any salivating mouths.
2. Dumplings, Melbourne - a definite stop only 2 minutes from the hotel. For $6 and all that dumplings, it's always a movie night in my room!!!
3. Chinatown, Adelaide - all you can eat for $6??? Ok, it's actually all-you-can-dump-in-your-big-plate for cheap ass chips. This is a definite lost tradition that we must must bring back.

Top 3 Places to go for Things that I do and go for Entertainment:
1. Canberra - I start with my free large mocha complimentary of the hotel and go for my 20 min stroll to the galleries. Canberra has some really amazing Museums and because it's all close proximity and they change their exhibits frequently, it's most enjoying, especially the Portrait gallery. I then head to the op-shop at a nearby town and also visit the second hand bookshop for a book or two. I've scored a nice shirt for $3 and a whole collection of Home magazines for 50c each. Amazing! I've scored great language books at bookshop across the road. The evening is always capped my movies after movies at Greater Union, Manuka which shows great indipendent and foreign films from all over the world, which is just to my liking. And now that I'm starting to live comfortably, I'm hoping this shall be followed by a coffee and a piece of cake from the varying cafes near the cinemas.
2. Melbourne - everything is of close proximity from our hotel, including Chinatown, museums and of course shopping (including the new Zara store). This is the only real place I stop and enjoy and nice frappaccino from Starbucks.

Top 3 things I've learnt from flying:
1.
2. Mothers have special needs. So anything you can do to make their flying a more pleasant one, then do it. Start with the extension seat belts, colouring books for their other children, a pillow for the baby, heating up milk, the non-stop mention how "Cute!" their baby is, and try and take their tray first before everyone else. They will appreciate your efforts so so much!!! And now that we also travel with a baby, this helps so much as now I really understand!!!
3.

Top 3 things I still need to investigate from flying:
1. Why do we still need to switch our phones off once they're in Airplane mode???
2. Staff Travel!!! *ugh*
3. Our safety equipments in all our planes.

Top 3 famous people I've flown with:
1. Old Prime Minister.
2. Ludacris.
3. Dude from True Blood and the host of the Australian Amazing Race.

Top 3 people that shouldn't be doing this job:
1. 98% of the people I fly with each day are great, but I've come across two crazy people who I can truly say you should be handing in your resignation papers because you are looney tunes and shouldn't be in this industry.
2. A blonde CMS who didn't realise my potential and instead was snooty enough to comment how bad I was as R1 even if she forced me in that position when I well warned her early enough that I am only new and still learning. I flew with her again a couple of days later and she couldn't believe how great I really was. So up yours!!!
3. A seven six pilot who should really be pushed out of the plane at 40,000 feet for thinking he's God. You're not!!!

Top 3 people I love working with:
1. Stand-by, I have these people written in my book. CSM who used to be a Principal of a school who was just one of the smartest people I've met and he just made me laugh for 3 hours non-stop on end during our flight.
2. Tanya. What a smile can make. She made handing our headsets look like it's the most fun thing to do in the world with just a flash of a smile and sometimes a wink.
3.

Top 3 People to call when you need help:
1. Ms L Su. Man, you are the goddess of knowledge when all the managers have failed me/us. You knew everything that we needed to know and more. I am one of your avid followers and do not worry. I am an apostle of your work and have passed on my knowledge as well.
2. Wendy from Crewing. The fact that you knew my staff number after only after 3 months into the company with just a mention of my name told me you're already an extra-ordinary person. And you're warmth is such a welcome to us who only want to call for information. You make us want to spend our whole 50c just chatting to you. We need more Wendy's in this world. Don't worry Wends, EVERYONE LOVES YOU!!!
3. Why call People Connect when you can clearly explain to me the anomilies in my paycheck. I
can call you anytime.

Top 3 things you CAN'T DO in this company:
1. Steal. duh!!!
2. Pour hot coffee/tea or red wine on a passenger.
3. Fart.

And to finish this entry, I always say, "Always find one thing each day to realise you are living THE "Dream!!!" and "Paris, First Class!!!"

I welcome all your comments.

One week after: Still Lazy..

2011-08-28T03:38:00.004+10:00

I can't believe WYD/JMJ ended a week ago. How time flies...(it feels like it was just yesterday we were sweating to all get in the metro!?haha)

I'm back home now. It's Sunday and I got back home last Thursday. Everything else is pretty much a blurr. It's 3am and I can't sleep anymore. I just had a weird dream about living with a bunch of big black people. (and I don't mean that in any derogatory way. I just can't figure out if they're African Americans or Jamaicans?) Anywho, it seems like they live in a nice hicky town somewhere in the states since it looked like an American town!? I'll say Louisianna!? *random* Anyways, it seems that my sister and I have bought a double storey house across them and for the time being we're staying in the small house thingo just outside their house. Like a garage but it ain't a garage. Apparently, we own a huge block of empty lot as well next to the house we bought and Papa (I don't know why he's in the equation but I seem to sense his aura) owns the whole farm just the next block!? Weird I know, but that's the dream. The dream starts with the the 2 big girls ranting that they're ready to plant stuff in the land as they've hired half of the lot from us since it's empty. One of the girls was ranting about how she kept trying to call me because she wanted to ask heaps of questions especially the size of the land. All I could think about was that I was out of the country and I wasn't on roaming. (but if I was on 'Whatsapps' it might be a different story.haha) She wasn't mad or anything, just saying. I had to look out the window and see how big the land she was talking about!? With the half she was saying, it looked big. I had to go to the loo and went to the house next door where my hosts lived and when I got to the kitchen, they were already cleaning. The toilet were somewhat located behind the fridge which was very odd and I remember greeting them 'Good Mornin' and they smiled. I had to pull the whole block of fridge to get into the toilet. I remember a small puddle just as I went in which I had to skip around. For some other strange reason, the leads of the fridge were all connected to the toilet and I was just so damned complicated just to pee fer Pete's sake!? To top it off, there was another guy in there washing his hands. Inside my head, I didn't care if he saw me peeing since he seemed familiar in the dream like someone I knew. besides, my back would be facing him so it didn't matter. The guy was like the son of my hosts and out of all them, he was the thinnest. I had to get out of there anyways and pee somewhere else. I ended up with this machine thingo which you had to climb, hold on to something and aim where the schute was. It was so bizarre. Like a cement making thing which had lights inside and it was churning and it was huge and red yet it was like fragile everywhere so you had to be careful where you held stuff. Ugh! Before I climbed the cement making toilet (hahaha) there was like a wheelborrow blocking the thing and the son helped me move it. He spoke to his little sister and that's when it occured to me that the family spoke Tagalog!? Does it get any crazier than this?haha So I climbed it, held unto something that wasn't really holding and tried to aim for somewhere decent for my flee to flow. That's when I realized they were all watching me and the big mother was sitting down and they were all urging me to climb. Like there were chanting or something? Before I woke up, I didn't get to pee, but that's when the big lady said, "Ay, di nya kaya!?" like this was all set up for some big ass test I had to pass for something...

I woke up not knowing where I was. It was weird to wake up in total darkness struggling to figure out where in the world you are. My dream must've been that deep.

I thought I'd blog. There's a gazillion things running in my head at the moment. Like: check my schedule for work; ring Citibank; read this and that; research that blog and that site; finish watching this and that...O M G.

I'm thinking I might as well blog for the week I've lost. So I'm gonna go backwards from yesterday. Any other entries made before this until last Sunday was blogged today. Take note that it took me 2 days to get home. And I was dellusional by the end of all of it! Long story and I probably won't go through it here. Just know that I work for an airline and I'm on staff travel and we are the least priority of any passengers, so trying to get home in peak season August from Europe can be a nightmare. So I had to do what I had to do, go through the routes I had to go through, do what I must to get home and that's the whole reason that's why it took me two days to get home when probably I could've been home earlier. Let's go back:

Saturday 27th Aug: I finally get to text my cousin/prima Alexia I'm home safe. I should've done this last Thursday as soon as I arrived but I couldn't be bothered. I was lethargic and all I wanted was to eat breakfast and sleep. I slept til 11am which was a whole lot of improvement from yesterday. I still had guilt. Maybe extend that to 1pm when I went back to bed after the toilet break and slept for another two hours before I got hungry and was thinking if my brother was hungry too? By the time I finally got up, he was heading to the city for a monthsarry date with his wife. Ate lunch and felt more guilt that I haven't done jack shit in regards to cleaning the house as promised. So I washed the plates, watched a few youtube shit (man that site is amazing!!!) and then decided to do a 10 min lawn mow just at the front where it's really all shit house. I can't believe my brother had waited for me all this time just to mow the lawn. Bastard!haha Ten minutes turned out to be an hour since I really got into it and decided to do a bloody good job at it. I've put on two extra kilos me thinks since I left, and even my last dream told me that. So I decided to go for a run/walk and buy puto for the dinuguan Mum had made for the party. Noticed that there must be some dark seed that has flown around my town because all the lawns and parks seem to have the same ugly weed growing. It was a relief to notice we're not the only ones who have gotten lazy about mowing our lawns in winter time. Puto was like $5. OMG. Adele was still singing in the charts along with LMFAO which was nice plus a few new songs. Got to see the sunset on the bridge and waved goodbye to the day. As I got home, Mum just arrived and I thought she was early? We chatted. I showered and used the loofa again and wondered how to really use a body wash gel and what amount are we really supposed to use in one wash? Because the way I was going with it, I could finish a bottle in a week. My thoughts: back to soap man! More economicable. Is that even a word? But I needed to scrub up to get rid of them dead skin and those ugly mutts that decided to pop up just on the back of my arm which has bursted and has started to dry up. Thank you Emu Oil!!! Did the laundry straight after so I don't have to wait for it in the morning just before mass. Did the whites and some of my uniform. Had dinner with Mum and made her Tinto de Verano which is like my new Spanish drink-at-the-moment as a farewell to Winter and hello to the coming Spring/Summer. Mum said she heard the birds singing this morning. So maybe it is Spring already and we just didn't know it. The lady on the radio station said it's the last week of winter and google said our Spring officially starts on September 1st and has no relation to the vernal equinox whatsoever. So soon I guess. Thursday in fact. Mum loved the drink even if the 7Up has lost all it's fizz or Schweppes as we fondly joked about it. The fizz and the ice and the slice of lemon is what really adds to the whole magic of it. Got to be early. Just around 8:30 as Harrison Ford and Shia LaBeouf Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull movie was just about to end, I really wanted to stay up for Matt Damon's The Bourne Ultimatum but I kept sleeping and then waking up and then sleeping and then waking up throughout the movie until I finally decided to sleep it all off. End of day.

Friday 26th: What a super blurr. Got up at 12 just when the phone was going off crazy. Like really crazy. I thought it was my brother on a desperate flee. But it must've been the banks or something. When I woke up, it felt like I needed another 15 mins of sleep so I went back to bed. I didn't realise how much traffic I could hear from our house. Very different to Tita's or Alexia's house in Spain. But I didn't wake up until 3pm. What a waste of day, but I didn't care. Got up and put the laundry up. Sayang ang araw. Went to the front yard and picked on some of the shitty weeds growing. I only stayed for 10mins before I ruin the whole lawn. Showered and scrubbed up for tonight's "Apo" party at Tita Lorna's. Mum cooked a whole lotta food. Macaroni Salad, Dinuguan, Brownies and Ambie also prepared her famous Ricotta Cheesecake. Everything was super yummy. Got to Tita Lorna's around 7:30. We were super expected and was kinda late daw!? There were glorious food everywhere. I couldn't stop eating the prawns. I've missed the prawns! But everything else was super yummy. I don't remember the last time I've gone to a Filipino party. Especially at Tita Lorna's with the old Sheraton crew. I've kinda mussed them even if Mum's bitched about some of them since their heads have gone bigger. ut I don't care. I loved the food and pigged out. Headed to Ann's around 8:30 and stopped by to drop her pasalubongs. She was baking stuff for Rohan's 4th Birtdhay the next day which they were inviting me to. That was nice of them. Ann and I haven't done this for ages. It felt like the old days. Tess was there too and that was kinda fun I've missed it. Stayed there for nearly two hours just talking. Went back to Tita Lorna's and the conversation was going off. There was a new lady there named Tita Myrna and she's that sort of lady with a loud voice and very confident. She was super funny though added by Payat's stories. It was a nice evening. Everyone's getting older though. Tita Lorna kept telling me that we must ALWAYS come during these events because it was nice. It was sad in a way when you know that time is running out. So I promised yes... Next party is as Tita Cynthia's house at Minto. (?)

Thursday 25th: I so so need sleep!!! Arrived in Bangkok with Thai Airways TG949 at 6am their local time. (party time still in Madrid at 12midnight.haha) My new buddy Woody was super nice and gave me like 3 cans of cold drinks for my transit. I wished we had a chance to talk more during the flight. I was going to tell him to contact me when he's in OZ, but I will let the stars to do that. A sudden thought that I could've probably gotten a flight out of Bangkok to Sydney that day occured to me. But I wasn't really in any rush to get home and I haven't been to Hong Kong for ages. I just needed sleep. I picked up my bag and headed back to the Thai counter to check in to my next flight to Hong Kong at 8am. Paper tickets are somewhat working to my advantage as they're so old school, the agents take special care to do them properly not noticing the weight of my bag (26kilos) or the size of my hadn carry. (which looks normal anyways) Scored a cool magazine to to buy at the airport. Had to giveaway 2 of the drinks Woody gave to me to the cleaning lady as I can't possibly bring that inside since they were over a 100mls. Plus Coke at 7am in the morning is just so wrong! She was very grateful. Customs took forever to get everyone in. I was near frustration I could've missed my flight. It took about a minute to get everyone stamped and there were like 30 people in front of me. That's nearly 30mins in line. Shite. Finally got through and realised that the perfumes were very costly in Duty Free. Didn't buy jack shit. My bags were dying and I felt for them. Damned mags!!!hehe I also realised I went around as the other passengers in front of me in the Customs line were all already in the gate. I just needed sleep at this stage, a Wi-fi to recall Kuya's bilin on what to buy in Hong Kong for him. I had probably mistaken the aircraft types from the ZED website as I thought we were flying something small to Hong Kong? But alas, it another 747 aircraft with the old Thai Airways logo? I can't believe they're still using that? I was pleasantly surprised to see that it wasn't full and that there were actual TV's/IFE's on each seat!? But all I wanted was sleep. I also asked to move towards the front since there were loads of seats and the passengers at the back were a bit rowdy and smelled. *no comments* But I also wanted to watch all the Thai movies as I wanted to do earlier from Madrid. It was then that I felt bummed that I didn't drink one of Woody's Cokes to wake me up a bit. But Coke in the morning is just so wrong! Thai Airways flight attendant quality has dropped a little bit. They're just not as pretty and they seem to be ordinary people off the streets. I did watch a High School kinda love story Thai movie which I didn't finish because I was dead to the world. I wished I had finished it.

Hong Kong: Delussional. I'm tired and cranky and all I want is sleep. And maybe lunch, even though I already had congee on the plane for breakfast. Landed at 11:30am and I had no idea what I was doing. The things that I wanted to tick off the list were: get my bags to some sort of locker; exchange my money; call Virgin Atlantic and list myself on their flight; go to the city and walk around for a bit; catch my flight home at 7pm.

I probably spent a good 3 hours in the airport. Don't ask. When I got off the plane, I saw a sign that had all the airlines listings. I just so happened upon it as I was looking for the toilet and so I hanged around there for about 10mins just asking for Virgin Atlantic. And was it there? Of course not. It's funny how some people work there and they don't know shit. The lady could've easily told me they won't be there until later in the afternoon as their flight begins...biatch. Spent another good 20mins in the toilet just freshening up. Brushing my teeth and washing my face etc. It then occured to me how disgusting Chinese men are when they spit and make that hacking sound. It's probably one of my pet peeves. I mean Filipino men do it too and I;m sure this is common in other Asian countries, but it's just disgusting. I had to get out of there.

As I picked up my luggage and finally got out, I was confused. I spent a good hour in that damned line at customs. The line was amazingly long and it looked like there weren't enough people working. The guy behind me kept shaking his head and cursing and I was nearly going off my head bonkers I swear I was going to hit him. It just made matters worst and much more annoying and he really wasn't helping with his head shaking. I should've said something to the lady at the end of the line, because there was a whole video playing on TV on how Hong Kong Airport is "One of the Best in the World!" This line really ain't helping them prove that point. My luggage was way out before me.

Closing Mass...

2011-08-22T04:59:00.003+10:00

Maybe our guardian angels watched over us and snuggled to protect us. But I had the best sleep over the week, even if it was on the ground amongst very very noisy pilgrims chanting and making all sorts of ruckus. I woke up in the cold weather (which is unusual for this past week) but felt super awesome!!!

I so wished that my phone was still alive because the sunrise was so beautiful this morning. It was as big as an air balloon, it raised at around 7:30 just as I came out of the bathroom. I had to pray and "Thank God for being Alive!!!"

El Papa came around 9:30. I don't know if by this time they've found the parents of the 26 children missing or if they've cleared up enough space to let the remaining pilgrims outside the "Berlin Wall." It was a little a crazy. Out of the four WYD's I've been to, this was a little crazy to reject pilgrims going into their designated spaces. (never mind!?)

Mass started and it was good to be in the pressence of the Lord with my new mate Rosalyn and Bridgette. The sun was up by this time and people actually had umbrellas like Asians. Even I was burning. Unfortunately it was all in Spanish, but luckily we had the booklet to follow. It was a pretty good mass. And finished after 2 hours. Pretty long mass!!!

And the announcement was made. (of course) Next WYD: Rio de Jainero!!! *woot woot* See you there in 2013 boys and girls.

And I've broken in hives. Like literally. I've eaten something last night and I have red rashes all over me after trying to get home in the last 3 hours. :( :( :(

Madrid Day 5...

2011-08-18T00:44:00.001+10:00

Day 5 was less crazy, since I didn't get to do much, WYD-wise. Even the streets really didn't pick-up until 5pm or so. Cathechism? Tired from partying? I dunno.

We had the pleasure of having Enrique join us almost the whole day. Alexia's ex and a good friend to her. I liked seeing them laugh and talk about nonesense and still get it. I'm glad she has a friend like that.

Had lunch at some random tapas place and I started my pilgrimage by visiting churches. Was glad to meet a bunch of Aussies at the last minute and met Julie. She was very kind and accommodating. Hope to run into her and her group in the next couple of days...

The one thing I thought that was different with this World Youth Day this time around, was the amount of Cultural Activities they had planned out for everyone. Pity there wasn't any English translations of the activities but lucky I had Alexia to translate and be my guide.

Went and saw the 'Pelican' at the Artes de Royal. A musical play about some exemplary martyrs who really gave their lives and devotion to God. And in English. It was pretty unique! I loved it.

I was hoping to also catch some films that they were showing at Calle Fuenchalor for the whole day, but the guide wasn't too good. It didn't specify a time it was all starting!? By the time I got there, everything was finished. *sigh* Oh well. Can't have it all I guess.

Calle Fuen is quite dangerous.hahaha Dangerous in terms of shopping.hahaha This street is like the Pitt St of Sydney only 10 times bigger. So many shops with Rabajas (Sale) plastered all over it. It took me literally 20 mins or so to walk this street (and I didn't even finish it) without stopping to look into any shops. That's how damned big this was. Whilst walking through it, I thought about Alexia's offer to come during winter with an empty luggage and do the Winter Sale. Hmmmmm, very very tempting my friend!!!

Joined Alexia and Enrique again at 8pm at Sol Station to re-group. They went and saw 'Planet of the Apes' and Alexia said it was 'Awesome' and a must-see. Must add this to the list then...

By this time, this is when the drama had inssued with the 'Protesters' and I wasn't surprised. The people of Madrid were angry as to why the government had placed 50 Million Euros into the WYD/JMJ when they were at a crisis and young people had no job. Others have much problems as well which that money could've been better spent. I'd be angry too!!! As a pilgrim, I saw some minor things that were wrong. Guides that weren't in English, events that catered only to the French and the Spanish, events that weren't friendly in terms of crowds. Volunteers that weren't to be seen!? Where's the 50 million euros I asked too!?!?

The protest went on for a while. Pilgrims were screaming back "This is the Youth for God!" A whole bunch of Brazillians sang and screamed and kneeled down to pray. It was pretty dramatic. And I wanted to capture it all in picture.

80% of the pilgrims wasn't detered. I wasn't detered either since I didn't see the point of having a protest in the middle of a peaceful and religious event. The government had already spent the 50 Million so....

So I pigged out, bought a whole box of pizza and a whole litre of Coke and headed off to Parque de Debod, where an evening show of Flamenco was to ensue.

And boy was it worth the wait!!! It was spectacular!!! They did a whole cheoreography based on the last days of Jesus and I could've cried if I hadn't been to pre-occupied looking for a good spot to watch the show and the sand that was hurting my hand as I sat. Now I want to do the fandango...errr...the Flamenco! It's such a disciplined form of dancing. WOW!!!

What a way to end the night. I tried to convince Alexia to walk for awhile since I felt like a pig afterwards and I wanted to burn it off. Managed to catch the last dance at Plaza de Oriente which felt like Antioch all over again! Except it was the last dance and I wanted more.hahaha

The only thing was, it felt like there was a lot of events dedicated to the French and Madrid felt like it was being taken over by French people. By midnight, no Spaniard was to be seen in sight. Where are all of Spain I wondered!?

Got to Alexia's door disappointed to see a lot of pilgrims loitering around the bars drinking beer and smoking and trying to pick-up like it was party central. "Forgive them Lord, for they do not know what they do..."

Maccas...

2011-08-17T03:36:00.001+10:00

It's begun...

2011-08-17T03:15:00.004+10:00

"Glorious" Concert WYD/JMJ 2011 Madrid

2011-08-17T00:41:00.001+10:00

Prima Alexia thought we'd hit the events after the Opening Mass and decided to hit the French concert at Plaza de Espagna. And man...was "Glorious" going off!!! It was the bomb. And the spirit was truly there!!! Even Alexia liked it...*woot woot*

Madrid Day 3...

2011-08-16T19:31:00.008+10:00

Madrid Day 2...

2011-08-15T19:50:00.002+10:00

Super super long day!!! Madre mio. Hoveh! Like I'm buggered and my feet wants to cry. *whispers..."Be like water my friend!")Not that I'm not used to this 'Tourist" lifestyle, but man, the day was long. Who can blame it when people here take the siesta for granted, stay in bed til 2 in the afternoon and not sleep 'til 4am in the morning???

Day 2 started at midday. I woke up at 11am with only 3 things in mind. Get the timetable of events for the WYD, getting some info about buying a weekly ticket to travel around the city and the English Mass at St Gines church at 9pm. Simple!

I had the pleasure of hitting Rasta first which is only walking distance from Alexia's place. Rasta is the Sunday markets in Madrid and man was that place HUGE!!! It nearly took us 2 hours just to walk the whole damned thing. By the end of it, things kinda got repetetive and the same items were sold after every few stalls.

It was a little dangerous for my wallet not because of the pickpockets, but because I was tempted to buy a few more pasalubongs that my luggage couldn't possibly pack anymore. But I did find a few gems that I couldn't resist after we've hit a section of the market where stall vendors sold classic old things. I was after a small coin purse since I've arrived in Spain to hold my Euro coins and I haven't found one that said 'Spain' everytime I'd pull it off my pockets. Not until I stumbled upon a stall that had this super old wallet from some old era that had Don Quixote on the front. I just had to get it since he sold it to me for 5 Euros along with one of them soldiers from ancient China. Also bought a camisole, some nice pamaypays and an awesome T-shirt for Mikael.

For lunch,

Madrid Day 1...

2011-08-14T00:40:00.001+10:00

Plans for my last day in Haro didn't quite go to plan so I kinda considered that day as wasted. I really wanted to go to the beach first before catching my flight to Madrid from Bilbao since the beach was only 30mins from the airport (or so). Mais, c'est la vie.

Thanks to primo Eric who dropped me off at the airport with Tito Oscar, I was boarded on the Iberia flight to Madrid IB449 on the 17:45 flight. Nice.

MADRID:

I found it odd that our plane pushed back 7 mins early which would be unusual for QF I suppose!? We must've gotten all passengers on board wwwaaaayyyy early hence we pushed back early. I found the flight attendants 'safety demo' super funny because they did a lot of pointing with their hands to show the exits. Their hands were like flying.hahaha I have to show you to know better.

18.30pm. Arrived within 45mins. Just after I've read the whole magazine from the aircraft. Some really good articles there about what's on in the Museums in Madrid. Bags came late though so it wasn't so early afterall.

Travel Notes: 2 Euros for Express Bus to Madrid city centre. WTFrock!?!?! 2 Euros. We're laughing mate!!! That's the cheapest thing EVER!!!

It was nice to be met at the airport. Alexia was there to meet me and she waved and smiled and we hugged. I was nice. I don't remember the last time anyone's done that for us? Wait...actually Mary met me at the airport too, but we missed each other.hahaha Family in Syndey's just too busy and we worry about parking.hahaha

We took the 40min ride on the 2 Euro bus and caught up. This bus was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G because it passed through all the 5 Terminals which means I know how to get to the airport by Tuesday next week on my way home.

But because of WYD, a lot of the roads were closed so we had to do a 30-40min walk back to Alexia's place which was right at the centre of Plaza Mayor. It was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!! We passed through all the major spots, like the bear eating the tree (?) and the '0' Point that starts all measurement in Madrid.

What was not so A-M-A-Z-I-N-G was the stairs to her flat. Frock!!! Major drama with big luggages. Lucky the ladies weren't with me. Frock!!! What a work-out. She lived at the very top floor on the 5th. The stairs really killed me. Mais. c'est la vie.

Her place really cute and quaint. I thought she was going to be at the actual Plaza mayor but this will do too. Quiet and away from the crowd which is nice because it will be VERY VERY CROWDED in the next few days.

We rested, inhaled the atmosphere in her place, drank like a big bottle of water...and then headed off.

Alexia was good in terms of her history as she guided me on a quick tour around her Madrid. She took me to Theatro Royal that does their Operas at La Zona de los Austria, then to Plaza Oriente on the side of the humongous Palacio Royal which of course sat right in front of La Almudena the huge Cathedral which I loved, but she hated because it was gray. And all about 15mins walk from her apartment. AWESOME!!!

Memories of Cologne flooded back as we asked for some information from the volunteers for the JMJ (Jornada Mundial da la Juvento) or as I personally knew it...the WYD (World Youth Day). They were obviously from other countries as they spoke little Spanish and prefered English. That was the same for us when we volunteered for Cologne and we spoke very little German.hahaha

The night was capped for more tapas at the street Alexia said was the main area for Tapas. We passed the oldest restaurant in Madrid called Botin. Had some musto and canas at this lovely old bar then headed for somewhere more quiter at some alley at a bar that served us squid as their specialty and also some croquets.

But who wouldn't have ice cream at some super hot night like this??? Ben & Jerry's!!!!haha

Buenos suenos senoritas!!!

PS. Quote of the evening was: "Be like water my friend!" apparently a quote from Bruce Lee. I stabbed my toe at some rock and it hurt like hell. Lucky my nail didn't turn or bled. My cousin just looked at me and said, "Be like water my friend!" her way of saying, "Be a man!" or "Suck it up Princess!" I loved it.

Travel Notes...

2011-08-13T07:15:00.003+10:00

* Bilbao Airport-Bilbao Train station: 1.30 Euros ----> About 15mins.
* Bilbao-Haro by Bus (and return): 9.10 Euros ----> About 1 hour.
* Bilbao Luggage Lockers - 2 Euros per bag for the whole day.
* Bilabo Trams to Guggenheim etc - 1.30 Euros.
* Guggenheim Tickets (as of Aug 2011) - 13.00 Euros
* Exchange rate (as of Aug 2011): 1 Euro = AUD$1.30

Biernes...

2011-08-13T02:48:00.002+10:00

Doing nothing on my last day in Haro today but blog blog blog and eat sleep and eat. Nice!!!

Ok, I have to also finish my book and see the sunset at least and then I have to go to Chamonix and buy my last Tapas for this trip which is their massive Super Hamburgesa.

Tapas Hopping...

2011-08-11T00:11:00.001+10:00

Since I don't drink or bar hop, my only vice when I'm in Haro, Spain at my familia's is to "Tapas Hop"!!! A definite MUST when you're up here.

So, after the beautiful sunset at the top atalaya (lookout), we all dressed up and hit the tapas streets of Haro.

First stop was at Bar Restaurante La Vega. This was the tapas first bar we've ever hit in Haro back in the day and I've always had a special place in my heart for this bar. Their specialty...Patatas Gravas. So we ordered that with some pinchos and mustos of course. Yum!!! Eric had to leave us from here onwards, so we were on our own...

Second stop was Jarrero. I've never been on this one before and the name reminded me of being in Haro and their people. (pron. Harero) Their specialty, champiñones. (mushrooms) Hmmm...tasty! But always so full of olive oil. Man. One will die here just swallowing oil. You might as well drink it?bwahaha My Tita told me that to distinguish a good tapas bar, you had to look at the floor and see how dirty it was with used serviettes. The more dirty the floor, the better!!! Once again doused with musto.

Last, we hit Los Canos. Only a few bars from Jarrero. This had to be my favourite bar in terms of atmosphere. They just had the whole look going for them and they had huge images of the pics taken on every year of their fiestas on the 26th of June which is the Sam Juan. (St John) Their specialty, picantes. (chilli) And man was it hot. I drowned my musto straight away. Tita also made us try the pigs ear tapas which was really tender and soft and freshly cooked and super super fatty. You could feel it melt down your throat. Most interesting...

Mahina ang mga kasama ko. That's where our tapas night ended. And sometimes, that's all that's needed. The night was followed with cafe con leche at Bar Suiza, one of the more popular big cafes on the plaza (and a literally a minute walk from our door). Aahhhh....it's a good life!!! Amen.

Dia bago en Haro (Lazy Day in Haro)...

2011-08-09T05:15:00.005+10:00

Primo Eric was designated to take me out today. For anything...anything at all. But the poor lad must've been super tired between juggling work and coming home early in the mornings partying with his friends during the weekend. So he woke up at 2 in the afternoon and totally forgot. I don't blame him. He's at that age.

So I stayed home. *sad face* Besides, I told myself I am on holidays so watching TV and eating and napping aren't too bad at all. Esta perfecto actualidad.

And it hasn't been a total waste of a day. I did get to go for a walk and run this morning, breathed the great mountain views of Haro, stopped by at church, and shop for some ingredients for the most awaited brownies a la mercado. So I did go out a bit. Plus I still managed to read 30 pages of my book which I want to finish before I head to my next stop...Madrid.

Brownies didn't turn out as planned. Something happened with the pan we used which threw the whole measurement and cooking time totally out of whack yadda yadda yadda. Hence it got burnt a bit. Eric called it 'Burnies.' I had to laugh. That was pretty good for someone who English is mid level.

Speaking of TV Shows, I've started to watch a new KDrama called 'Scent of a Woman.' I wasn't in the mood to watch The United States of Tara, True Blood or Falling Skies yet. Plus this drama is quite interesting. Man, Koreans have an obsession with being poor, finding a rich husband and really dramatizing the underdog. This woman is totally having a BAD BAD day on this first episode. Poor gurl. :(

On that note, I also got to review Lesson 28 of TTMIK and I learnt the connecting particle '-ro', meaning by/with or through ect. It's a little hard to pick up though and you need to really listen for it. At least I kinda know how to use it...

The Picnic...

2011-08-08T03:43:00.000+10:00

Though the weather this summer is much colder than the ones I'm used to, it was a gorgeous afternoon when we set out to go for the Tabing's 1st Picnic...ever!!!

Tita chose to go to, which is only minutes drive from the house.

I was surprised to find many families enjoying the afternoon as well. I don't know why, but I just for some reason didn't think the Spanish people went on picnics. Someone shoot me!hehe

A few men had gathered near the BBQ area and have started to burn their meat. And I really mean burn!!! Not in a black and ashes kinda thing, but close. Apparently they do things different here and place the meat under a whole bunch of grape vines and blaze the whole thing. Apparently the grape adds flavour to the meat!? I'm not surprised but now I'm also very very curious.

Tito and Tito had prepared the whole thing. Tita wanted to cook paella which was yum and very Spanish of her and Tito cooked some fish in the form of ______. It tasted familliar. I think I have failed to tell them that I'm not the biggest fan of fish after all these years, but I still ate out of respect. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't boneless either...

Everything was perfect!!! The whole atmosphere just felt right and I was glad I had thought of this great idea.

Primo Eric was super tired from all the partying and working at the same time, that all he could think of was sleep. I followed front after desert and was soon asleep as well.

Tita and Tito shared their moments and we told stories as usual.

This moment will definitely be on the photo album!!!

Things to do...

2011-08-07T21:58:00.003+10:00

When I was on the plane to Spain this time around, it occured to me that I have probably done everything that I've needed to do here as a tourist. (guess that's how much I've been here!?) Let's see. I've walked every street in Haro (well the main streets anyways) and have even gone and run around it's park plenty times to get fit. I've seen a Bullfight, I've gone and celebrated much of their fiestas, here in Haro, in Logrono, in Vitoria and even in Bilbao. I've eaten tapas after tapas and have drank bottles after bottles of musto to my content. We've even decided to go for long drives, to Madrid, hired a car to Lisbon and last year we drove all the way to France to visit a friend. (that was nice!) I've shopped many times at Zara, Breshka and Pull & Bear. I've only to save and hit Massimo Dutti and I'm good. I prayed in it's many churches, shopped at Eroski and have even munched on their favourite pumpkin seeds called pipas. Many luggages have gone and died here. In fact, I even have my own room at the Tabings waiting for me every year.haha

So what to do, what to do???

And *drum roll* what I came up with was a PICNIC!!! I'm such a genius!

I had this idea eons ago when we'd go for a drive to Logrono. We'd pass this lake that looks like a nice place for a picnic. And I always thought, what better way to spend summer with families than with a picnic in a nice place and with slices of some nice and cold watermelon. Luv watermelons!!!

So...I'm making it happen and I'm dragging my family to a picnic on a nice sunny Sunday on my Tita has a day-off and I don't care where.hehe

For later:
I'll go swimming in their pool. Yes, that pool cousin Eric had his first job in. That one, at the bottom of the hill. Yes, I shall do that.

And maybe watch a movie in their local theatre. That'd be different. I'd like to watch some Spanish film, but they're not that patriotic here.

Now all I need to do is buy me an apartment here and I've come full circle.haha

Snapshots...

2011-08-06T14:53:00.000+10:00

A snapshot of my Uncle Oscar at la loterias. Ever since the accident, he's been chasing his lost fortune.

Snapshots...

2011-08-06T12:49:00.000+10:00

Taking a snapshot of my cousin Eric in Haro, Spain. This is a spot

I'm most familliar with seeing him in. La computadora!!! (The computer!)

Pic of the Day...

2011-08-06T11:44:00.001+10:00

Still follwoing the cheap 'Bananas' in Haro,

Spain for €1.25 a bunch! Cheap!!!

Brighton....

2011-08-03T05:57:00.003+10:00

I'm pushing my limits. (since I didn't really get my way last year and this year as well because of the baby. Last year I wanted to go on a road trip from Zurich to Munich and Regensburg, but Mary was pregnant and the baby's savings needed to come first. This year I wanted to see Manchester. That didn't happen either.) So this year, I wanted to go to the beach. And somewhat enjoy London's summer.

So Mary took me to Brighton. (£15 later. Frock!!! That's steep...just to see the beach)

But it was worth it. We feared the weather mightn't fair up, but it delivered and the sun came out.

It was about a 10min walk to the beach from the Station and it kinda felt the same as a Bondi Junction to Bondi walk with all the small shops about. I'm still trying to get the concept of the British mentality and how they CAN'T grasp the notion of baby strollers and babies on board. They just seem to always push us around or try and overtake us as much as they can with rudeness attached. It's like they've never seen babies before??? I could curse but that doesn't solve anything.

Though there were plenty of food choices with great deals along our way to the beach, we figured we'd enjoy the trip and it eat at the Burger joint that gazed at the beach.

And it didn't disappoint. We thought that the beach might be empty, but we were soon proven wrong. Despite the discomfort of lying on pebbles instead of soft white sandy beaches, people here are troopers to say the least and still braved the pain. (Toto, I don't think we're in Kansas anymore...or Bondi for that matter) The beach was crowded and it was beautiful.

Lunch served was a simple hotdog and burger for Mary and cheesy cheesy fries. I've never had cheesy cheesy fries before. And man they were good. Everything was almost perfect!!! The fries were fried to a crisp and hot enough to just let the cheese melt. Yummo!!! A bit of Tobasco sauce and it would've tipped me to the point of Heaven. And the company was nice too.

I giggled at the fools who stepped out of the water and tip-toed in pain back to their spots. I shouldn't've laughed. I was a fool too, because straight after lunch, I wanted a taste of London beaches and braved a dip in it's cold cold water. Brrrrr.... man those pebbles are NOT nice!!! It made me wonder what drugs these people were on?!?

If you're famfilliar with Manly Wharf, then multiply this by ten and you have Brighton Pier, drizzled with a lot more fun!!! If I had children with me (and I can't wait for Mikael and Xyla to grow a little bigger) then this place would be a hoot. I thought I'd just soak in all this great atmosphere.

The afternoon was topped by 2 scoops of cookies and cream ice cream with coffee cake drizzled in chocolate sauce at Scoops. I thought I'd be English and gobble that up with a cup of Earl Grey tea. (sans the milk. I haven't gone that loco) We had smiles in our faces.

As Mary gave Xyla her afternoon snacks, I thought I'd go for a quick walk around town.

Man, this place is huge!!! I can't believe how much shops there are!!! Out of the loads of streets littered with shops after shops after shops, followed by restaurants after restaurants and cafes, I only knew of Gap and French Connection. "Toto I don't think we're in Kansan anymore!!!" Being blown away is an understatement. It'd take me weeks to even come close to knowing this place.

The thought of living here crossed my mind if I were ever to re-locate here in London for work. But I think Brighton would be a hike and a half to get to Heathrow and I could die.

I could leave London happy this time around. I've fulfilled a lot of the things I wanted to do even if I came here with no plans but to sleep in and eat.haha Thanks Mares...

After the long ride home on the train, it dawned on me that I wasn't going to make it to the free anime screening at Canary Wharf because our timing just went off track. Decided to come home instead and plan for Mary's Birthday breakfast of pancakes and pass by Tescos. I felt like a kid in a supermarket. Oh wait. I was in a supermarket. 2 for £3 for a whole box of strawberries and blueberries. A huge muffin cake doused with cream for £2.70. Beautiful boquet of flowers from £3-15. The bunch of roses and the pots of orchids were AMAZING!!! 4 for £5 of Ben and Jerry's ice cream in small tubs. And I didn't even check out all the isles. O-M-G!!! It's a wonderful wonderful world. I could've stayed there for days. My last thought, if Tescos is this great, I can't imagine what Asda is like...

I better hold back.

Currently loving: Tescos and cheesy cheesy fries.

Welcome to the Family Xyla...

2011-08-01T00:53:00.000+10:00

Xyla's day of Christening started off on a hot London day. It actually felt like summer for the first time in a while.

I thought the day was going to pan out busy with organising and running around, but the parents seemed relaxed at 9am. Which meant that I was able to go to mass with Mary at St Thomas at downtown Lewisham. That was nice. I don't remember the last time I went to church with Mary and held her hand during 'Our Father.' They handed out the new Churches Order which is to kick in by September.

Passed by Primark before we headed home. I could easily spend £50 here!!! Also passed by the 99p store. I have no idea why I haven't seen these store before. But I heart them!!! Like really good named products for 99p. WOW!!!

It was Mary and Dwayne's cleaning day on Sundays so I just chilled with my inaanak at the balcony feeding her.

Everything else happened at church by 3:30pm. Man I could've easily conjured a migrane. The church was super full, babies crying everywhere, people didn't know where to sit and it was just so roudy and all over the place. I was breaking out in sweats for everyone. It was the most hectic Christening I've ever been to and the priest was even breaking into sweats. The priests mic wasn't working properly and it was hard to follow the missal because of that. I even missed my cue to do the Second reading because I thought I was reading something else.haha At least the photos turned out well.

By 4:30pm, I was a new Ninong again. And I had a responsibility to Xyla to be a good Christian example.

I fulfilled one the things I wanted to do in London and that was to go for a ride. I thought we were all catching the trains since that's the thing to do here. But some people had driven and after much discussion and organising, we all managed to get into a car.

I thrown to Nora, Tanya, Ellen and Akram. All Mary's friends. She drives a BMW and she seemed really down to earth so we had a good talk in the car. It was nice. We also passed through some Circuses in town and we could've stopped.

Found Xyla's reception place which was quaint. It had modern building all around it, and in the middle of it is this hall with greens (a small garden for kids to run around it) with trees filled with lights and tables littered with balloons.

But everything was disorganised even if it looked like it wasn't. The bar wasn't opened yet, the food were heating, but we weren't allowed to eat yet and everything felt like they were dragging on just because we were waiting for the other guests to arrive. (like they were more special than Xyla?)

Mary needed me and I needed to step up. I am the Godfather after all. Being a Flight Attendant helped. I have a better and quicker sense of serving people may it be food or drinks. It was easy for me to clear up tables. I photographer, babysitter, waiter, server and anything else I could help with. It was a busy night.

I felt disconnected by the end of it all. Like I was invisible and I was in a totally different world. I was surrounded by so many Jamaicans and coloured people I felt like I stood out yet invisible. Don't get me wrong. This was all part of the adventure that I signed up for and it was great to be around these people. There was no feeling of belonging. And that's ok too.

And like most things. Everything works out in the end. *insert sigh of relief here*

Happy 13th Month Birthday Mikael!!!

2011-07-29T04:20:00.001+10:00

Mikael's 1 Year and 1 Month Birthday Brownies!!! Yay!!! (just had to share)

Pic of the Day...

2011-07-25T16:57:00.000+10:00

Contemplating at Takaso Beach, Fukui.

Pic of the Day...

2011-07-25T00:40:00.001+10:00

Following the cheap 'Bananas' all over the world!!!

Look Mum, it's my 'Banana Necklace'!!!hehehe

Bikurishita...

2011-07-25T00:01:00.003+10:00

Nothing like surprising friends in Fukui, Japan!!!hahaha Bikurishita! (Surprise!!!)

And of course they were more than happy to see me.

I thought the best way to do it was to attend Mass at church on Sunday where they would all surely be there!!! Man, you should've seen their faces whem they saw me sit down at some random chair by the choir where they all sing!!! Worthless.

The afternoon turned out better than I had imagined. First there was Mass where I was already asked to read the Second Reading. What followed was a bunch of photoshoots and interviews like I was some sort of famous star. Crashed some Filo kids Christening and ate their food. Nice.

Kuya Otoosan Masaru and I then hit Fukui town whilst the ladies had their meeting with Sister. I had a mission to check out the price of the cooking knives for Ipe (and man were they expensive), and also hit the Y100 store for some pasalubongs. Kuya Masaru also had a good time practiscing his English and also studying the streets and buildings of Fukui for his new job as a Taxi Driver.

The rest of the afternoon was set for one of Japan's (and Filipinos mou) traditional pastime...KARAOKE!!! Yay! I've missed this. We also had nomihodai (all-you-can-drink) so we just partied on. Britney (Ate Erica) decided sing some memorable songs at first. Like Toni Gonzaga's "I Love You Boy" which Weng sang to me apparently in dedication to her crush on me.bwahahaha At the time I snobbed it off and didn't realise it's meaning until now.bwahahaha I wish she's doing well. Then Ate Erica and I had our old duet song by Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men called, "One Sweet Day!" and that felt great. This was a special moment. I felt like I hadn't left and these were the same friends as before. I've missed them. Unfortunately, Ate Cel was kept by Sister for some long meeting hence she couldn't follow us afterwards. I couldn't find much updated songs either so I had no choice but to sing Avril Lavigne songs which were fun!!!

At around 7pm, they decided to give me a late dinner party in celebration of my Birthday they all missed on July 3. So we decided to have at Ate Nancy's big house which was nice. Ate Nancy's husband ordered Akiyoshi chicken BBQ sticks which an old Japanese teacher friend and I used to always hit when we hanged out in Fukui. So this was like hitting 2 birds with one. We also had snails which were hard to scoop and Cocktail drinks which they always bought for me to try and get me drunk.hahaha With that were some Japanese salad and some bananas and watermelons. I was super stuffed after all of the partying.

And if we had 'a' moment at the Karaoke, it couldn't beat the moment when my friends finally poured out their feelings as Japanese wives. Parang binuhos lahat nila and mga hinanakit ng mga buhay nila sa kin. It was hard to hear. And overwhelming at the same time. I thanked God for that moment.

I couldn't have imagined a more perfect day with my old friends. It's like we managed to fit everything together all in one day. Ate Cels and Ate Lings (and the other Ate) pressence with Sister would've completed the day, but I couldn't've imagined a more perfect day!!!

TV Shows just finished...

2011-06-25T08:34:00.005+10:00

The past two weeks have gone quite quickly...and with it, four TV shows I've managed to finish. *clap clap for me!!! This is quite a feat really...* My baby laptop Chi-chai (given by my siblings from last years Christmas) has been quite a companion on my slips between ports and at home. We've been sharing many moments watching these peoples lives go by to make up for interesting days. And the four lucky winners are *drum rolls*:

United States of Tara Season 2: After I slugged through 5 episodes last night waiting for my nephew Mikael fall to sleep, we ended up with a new revelation Brothers and Sisters style. I love how the show is only 30 mins long which means I can really power through it quickly sans the boring bits. It seems that Tara and Charmaine have a half brother that they don't know about, named Bryce, suddenly blurted out by their father at a spur of a lucid moment in the bathroom with Tara. Tara transitions to new baby alter 'Chicken' and ruins Charmaine's wedding with Nick. *aawwww* And I really had my fingers crossed for Charmaine to find happiness. As I watch this show further and further, I really start to feel for this family. My gawd...the Gregson's are a really f#*ked up bunch of people. Ok except maybe for Max, Tara's husband (played by John Corbett). He seems to be the only person in the show who's got his shit together. It's the people around him, especially his wife Tara, who has plenty of misplaced marbles, that he has to deal with which throws him off the ladder!!! Poor guy. Even his friend Neil is whacked (and lazy). Sister Charmaine is delusional. What was she thinking? That marrying someone and having another man's baby is perfectly alright. C-R-A-Z-Y!!! Kate is desperately trying everything that comes her way and there's always something new with her. Always! C-R-A-Z-Y!!! I actually thought she'd finally have something normal with rich Yo-Go man, except he starts getting overprotective and scary too. C-R-A-Z-Y!!! Glad he got booted out. (though I have a strange feeling he'll linger to the next and final season of Tara!?) Plush Marshall is struggling to define his gay identity sleeping with that girl and now (finally) hooking up with Lionel. (whom I detest. Bleech-yuck!) And now his still insecure and really-not-helping. Nice do though!!! Semi C-R-A-Z-Y!!! And Tara's parents are a whole new packet of beans they are. They really are. C-R-A-Z-Y!!!

Then there's Tara. C-R-A-Z-Y!!! (times O-M-G!)

I was wondering what they'd try and do this season. And of course, it's the everlasting quest for her to search for the roots to her problem and where they started from. On the quest, more and new alters turns up, *nice* like therapist Shoshana and baby 'Chicken'. Oh and we get Buck back with a few shenanigans on tow and also sinister Alice. T turns up occasionally.

This season, she believes the answers could lie with Mimi, a babysitter from the past who she keeps having visions of, at the new house next door that Max has purchased and renovated to sell. Turns out Mimi is like Alice and *drum rolls*... Find the answer lies on episode 11, when she finally Googles Mimi, hunts her down and have tea, which then leads us to the mystery brother Bryce on the last episode.

I must commend Toni Collete for her role as Tara who's got me hooked on this show. (and glad she's won awards) This must be a dream job for an actress who can play nearly 7 different characters in one show and play them sooo sooo well!!! Bravo!!! Go the Aussies!!!

Off to Season Three.

I powered through United States of Tara Season 1 as they were only 30mins episodes to my surprise. Everything else, besides the comedies, are usually about 40mins to an hour. Of course, with the great acting of Toni Collete as Tara and I was amused how much foul mouthed they've made John Corbett here (which I guess is normal for modern Western families), I was hooked from the word go. Anyone on the loop knows this is the story of the crazies that is Tara and her family, on the mystery quest of getting to finding the roots of her problem and getting to know her multiple personalities along the way. *drum rolls* Introducing bitchy and trashy teenage 'T', the ever pristine and proper 'Alice' and wild man 'Buck'. (and later on animalistic 'Gimmy') It's a really fun show to watch. Not due to the trauma's Tara goes through in the show, but how a TV show such as this, can show us that there are people like Tara exists in real life and well...this is their story in our modern world!!!.

Go watch it!!! You won't regret it. (and maybe even learn new things along the way)

It ended up with dragons. Daenery had given birth the three dragon eggs in the last episode of Game of Thrones Season 1. After I had her crossed off on my list of interesting characters in the show after the death of her wild husband Drogo (and becoming desperado), she turns up with this!!! Ugh.n So now (maybe) I have to wait for Season 2. *booo* I was also about to cross this show off my list after they killed Ned and made Geoffrey King of the Seven Kingdoms. WTFudge??? Geoffrey? Really? Kill Geoffery!!!hehe

Unfortunately, the fire of this show is slowly dying on me. I wished this show had more things happening about it. More wars, more killing...anything to keep it exciting. But it doesn't. The Lord of the Rings had more things happening in one movie than the ten episodes they produced combined. Pity because the show seemed to have everything to keep it's promise. Instead, we are plunged into their dull characters and lives which tease you that something great will happen next...and then *boom* nothing. What a let down. Who wrote this show anyways??? Yes, winter is coming!!! When???? Maybe the dragons will keep it more interesting on the next season??? If I watch it that is...

And finally...

If I had the chance to apologise to Jin Ji Hee for abandoning his show, I would. I got distracted and kept in on the shelf for a rainy day. Well, the rain has come and gone and I've finally finished watching the KDrama version of The Man Who Can't Get Married. And finally...finally ajhussi does have a heart after all!!! *aawwww* "Aaaajjjhuusssiiii...!!!"hehe

EPs again...

2011-06-20T19:17:00.004+10:00

Who has the best job in the world??? Me!!! *huge grin*

I love my job!!! I do! I mean tell me a job that takes you to all the major cities of Australia and sometimes the world, gets you chauffeured to your awesome hotel, let's you shop, eat and drink and get this...pay you all for it??? What a lifestyle!!!

But it ain't perfect. And there are things in there that could be improved. And there are some whack-jobs out there that you have to work with. (but that's just like any other job out there) But for most it, like 95% of it is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!!

And then, there's also those things that I'd rather not do. But it's all part of the system.

And that's EPs. (Emergency Procedures) *yarrrkkk*

Every 4-6 months, we have to re-certify that we are capable of doing our important job, and for most, that involves the safety of our passengers.

This means, pulling out the 3 thick manuals once again and get cracking back to studying. *yaarrrkkk* So for the past 19 days, I've been doing nothing (that's a lie) in between flying but duck my head back on the books. *yaarrrkkk* It's like school all over again.

And even though there are only 40 random questions on SOPs and all three of our aircraft types...there are a gazillion things to remember, including your drills, door opening, emergency equipments and dangerous goods.

Sometimes, I wonder what I've gotten myself into.

But I got through it. And even though I was disappointed that I failed 3 questions on the 7-6s and had to shamefully re-do it again, I'm proud that this time around, once again...I have passed my EPs. *squeals like a little gurl. Yay!*

So I'm free again for the next 4-6 months to frolic the cities and work without worry. But we all know that 6 months can go so quick and before you know it, it's exams all over again. *yaarrrkk*

Aahhhh...all in the life of a Trolley Dolley...

New Rocket...

2011-06-20T19:11:00.002+10:00

New rocketplane 'could fly Melbourne-London in 3.5 hours'
AFP June 20, 2011, 6:33 am

European aerospace giant EADS has unveiled its "Zero Emission Hypersonic Transportation" (Zehst) rocket plane it hopes will be able to fly from Melbourne to London in under 3.5 hours by around 2050.

The trip between Paris and Tokyo could be completed in under 2.5 hours.

"I imagine the plane of the future to look like Zehst," EADS' chief technical officer Jean Botti said as the project was announced at Le Bourget airport the day before the start of the Paris International Air Show.

The low-pollution plane to carry between 50 and 100 passengers will take off using normal engines powered by biofuel made from seaweed before switching on its rocket engines at altitude.The rocket engines, powered by hydrogen and oxygen whose only exhaust is water vapour, propel the plane to a cruising altitude of 32 kilometres (20 miles), compared to today's passenger jets which fly at around 10,000 metres.

"You don't pollute, you're in the stratosphere," Botti said.

To land, the pilot cuts the engines and glides down to Earth before reigniting the regular engines before landing.

EADS hopes to have a prototype built by 2020 and for the plane to eventually enter service around 2050.

The project is being developed in collaboration with Japan and uses technology that is already available.
A four-metre model of the plane, which looks similar to the now defunct Concorde supersonic jet, will be on show at Bourget for the biannual aerospace showcase which begins on Monday and opens to the general public on Friday.

Transparent Planes...

2011-06-14T22:37:00.002+10:00

I have so thought about this concept a million years ago. I'm glad Airbus has the same vision as this article stated today. The seats on the image need to look more airlineny than these ferry looking seats the image below has projected, but otherwise...nice. Perfect for the evening stars.

Plane of the future? / Airbus
June 14, 2011, 10:36am Totaltravel

Forget more leg room and food that actually resembles something edible, planes of the future may be transparent, reveals London’s plane building giant Airbus.

The grandeur plans for what is being called the ‘intelligent’ aircraft are hoped to be a reality by 2050, were unveiled in London by Charles Champion, Airbus’s executive vice president of engineering.

The cabin ‘membrane’ will be a bionic structure offering a whole lot more than just a nice view, claims Airbus, “The concept cabin is designed with that in mind, and shows that the journey can be as much a voyage of discovery as the destination.”

The hope is that the design will incorporate technology that allows the walls will have the capacity to change in response to different light conditions, show holographic gaming and video displays.

They have even gone so far as to say that passengers might be able to enjoy a game of virtual golf, or do some virtual shopping to pass the time on long-haul flights.

The plans show that the cabin will also aim to provide passengers a less physically taxing travel experience, with a ‘vitalising zone’ offering mood lighting, vitamin-enriched air and even aromatherapy.

“It aims to meet individual needs ranging from a simple to a complete luxury service, but all allowing you to continue life as if on the ground”.

The plans incorporate last year’s proposals by the Airbus to design aircraft that will be more environmentally friendly, including reduced fuel emissions and noise.

“Our research shows that passengers of 2050 will expect a seamless travel experience while also caring for the environment.”

The Box - Currentlies...

2011-06-03T19:48:00.010+10:00

Since I've just finished watching KDrama Secret Garden, I need something to keep my Hangugeo (Korean) practise going. So I've decided to follow Manny and the KDrama version of Japanese manga City Hunter.

Manny (매니) is the story of tall, perfect figured and a well qualified Ivy League graduate, Lee Han, Seoul’s top male nanny. He is employed by Seo Do Young as a live-in nanny to look after her two young children, Eun Bi and Jung Min.

I think this drama (or comedy drama) will grow on me as the characters are kinda funny. Seo Do Young, the Mum, has that charming insecurity about her that falls on the humourous side. Lee Han, the Manny, is kinda arrogant but I wanna see how this Manny develops his skills within the 16 eps. Janice, 'Miss Next Top Model Korea' wannabe host (well, only after watching one episode) shall keep Lee Han on his tip toes, plus she tries to speak English on the show and she's already doing Konglish.hahaha I know this drama is already finished in Korea, but that just means I can already easily download the episodes and just keep on watching. Joayo!!!

The first episode had Lee Han very poor with 10,000 Won left in his wallet and I thought I could relate. (me so poor! *waaah*) I just wish they'd stop making him out like his English is perfect, all because he lived and studied in New York. *bleh*

City Hunter (시티헌터) is an original script based on the world-famous novel by Japan’s Tsukasa Hojo. Since it became public that Korea would be the first remake of this story into a drama, ‘City Hunter’ has been receiving worldwide attention. ‘City Hunter’ has switched the setting from Tokyo 1980 to Seoul 2011, and according to the original story structure, the protagonist becomes a city hunter and his character develops while resolving gratifying cases.

Lee Yoon Sung (Lee Min Ho) works at the Blue House’s National Communication Network Team and received his Ph.D at M.I.T. Kim Na Na (Park Min Young), a former judo athlete who works as a bodyguard for the President’s residence, the Blue House. Kim Na Na will eventually be involved in a love triangle with Lee Yoon Sung and prosecutor Lee Joon Hyuk (Kim Young Joo). The drama also marks Goo Ha Ra’s acting debut and she will play the role of the President’s daughter, Choi Da Hye.

Looks like Boys Over Flowers F4 Goo Jyun Pyo has a new show sans the curls.hehehe Plus respectable Uncle 'Jun' from Life is Beautiful is on the show too as the military friend who steals and adopts Yoon Sung Lee as a baby.

And just before I go gaga over True Blood in 23 days, Game of Thrones, the original BBC Being Human (and I'm getting into the US version soon) and the new Downton Abbey are keeping my laptop going in my hotel room during slips.

Game of Thrones is set in the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros, where "summers span decades and winters can last a lifetime," Game of Thrones chronicles the violent dynastic struggles among the kingdom's seven noble families for control of the Iron Throne; as the series opens, additional threats from the snow and ice covered region north of Westeros and from the eastern continent across a narrow sea are simultaneously beginning to rise.

Before I begin, bravo to the artists who designed the opening credit to this show. A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!! I was blown away! Now...I'm on the 7th episode of the series and I get moments when I wonder why I'm (still) watching this show. I mean I like it but there's just something missing from it. Like things are supposed to happen like it did on the first episode, but they haven't!!! Yes, we know winter is coming and there's a dark cloud looming around bringing with it beings from the underground, but it hasn't happened yet. Yet!!! And like any good show, they would bore you for the hour and then pull you back in the minute they close the show with something fascinating that would have you peeing yer pants. These past seven eps have us on choking on the neck of the petty banters of Kings and the righteous that shall rule all Seven Kingdoms. The recent King has just died attacked by a boar during a hunt (idiot), and now little Prince Geoffrey has been anointed King by his Queen mother (the whore). But Geoffrey is nothing but a brat and I want to hit him meself. I wish Ned would just chop his head off in the next episode (or I will, the little prissy). And please oh please, let us see some action already from the walkers of the night...

UK BBCs Being Human Season 2 (yes, I'm two seasons behind) has me on it's first episode where nothing is happening yet. In the last season, they've finally killed the fat vampire of old as George the werewolf, also accidentally scratching his girlfriend as he was munched on his immortal foe. Annie the ghost is now starting to muster her ghostly powers, and I think there's something happening to her ex boyfriend who has now turned loco. Maybe the vampires shall turn him as their new leader or something 'cuz he has all these angst and 'revenge' written all over his face when they scared him to death. It's no True Blood let me assure you, but the characters are loveable, I guess. The series has it's ups and downs and again, I get those moments when I wonder why I'm watching the show at all. It's vampire-lovin', werewolf-lovin', ghost-curious person in me that hungers for stories like these and it definitely numbs the dull hotel moments.

Fictional Downton Abbey, is the stately home of the Earl and Countess of Grantham, and follows the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants early in the reign of King George V. The series spans the two years prior to the Great War, commencing with news of the sinking of the Titanic, an event that triggers much of the plot.

I saw the first episode last Monday when I was in my hotel room in Perth, and was somewhat disappointed. The TV previews made it look like it's the new raunchy and bitchy 'IT' show of Winter '11 based in old Britain and yet...yet...the raunchiness and bitchyness lacked. In fact, it looked just like a story of rich ol' brats in ol' time England who don't know what to do with their money!? I shall give this a few more shots before I dump this show because it's looking like a perfect waste of time. I'd rather catch up on beauty sleep. *zzzzz* If anything, I'm gunning for Bates, the new crippled Valet as my underdog.

And on the backburner, there's Happy Endings, Mike & Molly and Rules of Engagement...

True Blood S04...

2011-06-03T19:38:00.003+10:00

True Blood Season 4...June 26th!!! Mark it on your calendar cuz it's a date!!! Can't wait...

Pinch and Punch...

2011-06-01T17:54:00.003+10:00

Hello Fans!!! Long time no see.hihihi (^-^)/

I've been pretty busy flying and have no real time to blog. In fact I think they've made me sleep in all the hotels around the country these past two weeks, it's not funny. (Adelaide being one of my favourites and Brisbane next...hotelwise!!!) Brisbane has the only free wi-fi but I was too buggered to even log on.

I'm still having a fit with Virgin Mobile because I seem to always end up with excess charges over my monthly $29 cap (with $450 worth of calls and text + 200MB of internet access). And I only text, so I don't understand how I end up with all these excess??? So I've stopped using the net on my phone unless I'm connected to the wireless at home or I'm passing Maccas.hahaha I'll get back to you on this one until things blows over and gets much better.

So "Pinch and Punch for the 1st Day of the Month!" Can't believe it's mid-year already and my nephew is already nearing 1 year old. (and we've discovered his 1st teeth today!!! YAY!!!) I'm on my eight month of flying and it's the 1st day of winter. *brrrrrr*

Checked my weight and I'm glad that I'm still on the same scale as when I got off from my 6 weeks of fasting over Lent. (even if I'm feeling I'm over eating on rice and some bread) I'd like to be 2 kilos lighter than this weight, but I can't complain. May was a bit better exercise-wise as I've managed a few jogs and walks and weights in between. I'd like to get back to squash but it's not in the budget.

Plans for the next half of the year is as follows:

* Being a trolley-dolley...errr...Flight Attendant, we are to be at our 'BEST APPEARANCE.' This entails proper grooming, well shaven and the perfect smile. So, today I'm trialing the cheap(er) 5 minute 'White Glo Express'!!! The $400 1 hour Teeth Whitening solution at the dentists in the Philippines are out of my budget (plus we've lost the Manila's back to LH) so I shall wait and opt for the next best option. It's a two week trial thing for my upper teeth with 60 days of treatment. We shall see...

* This next 6 months is Saving time. Now that both of my investment properties are with tenants, it's time to save and pay for all my debts. Debts includes a lump sum for my condo, money owing to my Ate and Mum, 2 Credit Cards and a loan. This shall take me about a year with holidays and birthdays planned in between. Good luck to me.

* To counter-act the debts, I'm putting away some of my pay on my ING account. I've recently just opened a Goal Savers account with CBA with a 6% interest as long as I go along with their conditions. Good luck to me.

* Holidays and Birthdays planned along the way are a trip to Perth for my sisters Birthday, Mikaels big 1st Birthday Bash, a nice hotel for MY Birthday overlooking the harbour plus maybe a ticket to the theatre, World Youth Day in Madrid (+ Osaka, London, Amsterdam and Hong Kong) for my annual leave in August and then Seoul and Beijing in November for Mums big 60th Birthday Bash. Amen for staff travel.hehe

* Get to Level 3 and 4 in TTMIK for my Korean lessons and get to start a better understanding the KDramas and books I'm watching and reading at the moment. I want to conquer this language somehow somewhat by year end...

And that's all in the list for the next 6 months. It's a hella lot!!! Good Luck to me.

시크릿 가든 Secret Garden...

2011-05-28T18:42:00.002+10:00

Finally finished watching all 20 eps of KDrama Secret Garden (시크릿 가든). Man it took me awhile!!! I tried watching this in my hotel room just after my TTMIK lessons and at home when I'm off. Did I mention it took me awhile? It was good Hangul practise though. ne.

Dance Til' the World Ends...

2011-05-16T23:38:00.001+10:00

So boppin' to this hawt song at the moment. It's Britney Bitch...

Autumn Picnic...

2011-05-06T00:43:00.002+10:00

Couldn't've found a better time to drag Mum, Ate and baby Mikael to Canberra for an Autumn picnic than today. Was telling Mum about my Fall adventures in the Capital last week that I just had to drag them to see the colours of the leaves falling.

And since we haven't family picnic-ed for a while, they gladly agreed to take the 2 1/2 hour ride.

And we weren't disappointed. (besides the magpies at the lake) The leaves were either all golden yellow or burnt red and it surrounded us along with the cool breeze in the air.

Mikael must've felt the most tired, because he felt uneasy and cried quite a few times.

In a perfect world, we could've fitted in the National Portrait Gallery, some few gems from the Op Shop at Kingston and the Spanish Film Fest at GU in Manuka, but that's in a perfect world. The Picnic at Telopea Park with the mini photoshoot Mum and I were having with my XPeria phone and the shooting star whilst driving home at night shall suffice the memory logs.

The Catch-up...

2011-04-30T23:53:00.000+10:00

My Slow Cooked Brahaus Stew.

It was soo soo good to get time to catch up with my good old friends from UU from the airport. Jacqui, Mary and my main man Janie were missing, but the rest well made up for it with the new Allison who organised the shindig at the Bavarian Cafe at York St in the city. I laughed so hard I missed everyone...

C'était si si bon trouver le temps pour rattraper mes bons vieux amis d'UU de l'aéroport. Jacqui, Marie et mon Janie d'homme principal manquait, mais le reste l'ont compensé bien avec le nouvel Allison qui a organisé le shindig au Bavarian Café à York St dans la ville. J'ai ri si fort je tout le monde ai manqué...

(L to R): Mel, Allison, Adrian, Me, Mia (standing up), Lily, Amy, Jackie and UU Rep Quintin.

The ladies, Mia, Lily and Amy.

Pre-toast with their exciting German shots.

The UU Gang.

Cheers!!!

Odd...

2011-04-22T23:26:00.003+10:00

If I could've written a book when I used to work at SQ Check-in for the funniest things people would say just to get away with crime, I would've. It'd be a very funny book. People are very funny especially when they don't mean it. And by funny I mean stupid, which makes it funny.

Let me start with the cutest little girl who was dressed as a Koala with her two fathers. On the gate, she kept saying 'chip-chip-chip' and when I played along and asked her what she was, she said she was a Koala.hahaha So cute. During the flight, as I passed her by, she gave me two stickers and said, "Could you do me a favour and give this to the pilots for me please!!! It's off my sticker book!" I had a "Awwww" moment and nearly fainted. She was sssoooo cute!!!

On our flight tonight from Melbourne back to Sydney, we had an odd flight where most of the passengers seemed like tourists or foreign students or just non-Australians who aren't too familiar with our service. As we served drinks, we got the odd 'Milk', 'Lemon & Lime Bitters', 'Corona', 'Sprite', 'Schweppes' and 'Chocolate Milk' as requests. The 'Chocolate Milk' and 'Lemon & Lime Bitters' were the best. It just totally threw me off because I haven't flown with any airline that serves any of these drinks...except maybe for 'Sprite'.

People are odd sometimes...

Zara opens in Sydney...FINALLY!!!

2011-04-20T23:37:00.002+10:00

Finally, the massive Spanish mega chain store Zara opens it's doors in Sydney...and it's been heavily anticipated!!! We love Zara!!! When we go overseas, this is one of the only shop we seek. May it be in Japan, France, England, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines and of course Spain!!! We heart Zara, even my baby nephew has a small collection already.haha

Ate and I wanted to see what the fuss was about of course and headed to the new Westfields in the city. Only to be dismayed as there was a stack of line outside all three floors with an hour wait to go in. It was unfortunate because I had limited time before I had to catch my flight and I really wanted to see the collection they had for Sydney. It was super crazy inside too almost like the Christmas Sales for Myer. Yikes!!!

But, not to worry. Zara seems to be a lasting store worldwide and I know there will be a million more opportunities here to come especially during the Sales. (plus I know the other Australian cities are about to follow suit! Great for a flight attendant like me.hehe) Man, if I was even crazy, I would apply there casually.hehehe

Welcome to the Family...

2011-04-10T23:01:00.005+10:00

Another Baptism, another new member to Family. Welcome Zara Lily Iglesia.

When I saw Lei at the church to congratulate her, Zara was furiously crying. Maybe lack of sleep or just plainly annoyed that the amount of people around.haha Not used to the attention?

But that's when it struck a cord and tugged the heart when Lei suddenly whispered, "Look Dan, I have a crying baby!"

Amen. Ah Miracles of Life. You've gotta love it!!!

It was a joyous event! Surrounded by love, family and friends. Plus the church was ultra slick and modern, as my Mum would put it.

It was most special to catch up with friends. I truly miss these friends. I remember a time when we were all inseparable, especially on Sundays and after 'Weekends'. Good times. It's hard to find friends like these these days especially at my line of work. So I cherish these moments!!!

Thanks Mols and Lei for the invite!!! I was really touched. God bless to Zara. You make wonderful parents.

Rhea, Ann & I

Dex, JR, Ate Dah, Mara, me & Carina

Pre-birthday thoughts...

2011-04-09T01:20:00.006+10:00

Dear friends,

During landing, as I sat strapped on my seat, it dawned on me that I'm nearing 34. It wasn't a scary thought, but I haven't even thought much about it. The shocking revelation was, "Man, I don't even want anything for my birthday!" or so methinks.

In the car, I thought, maybe a week in Noumea would be a nice break for my birthday. Or maybe hire another Mini Cooper topdown and go for a drive somewhere??? But where.

Tonight, as I sat in front of my mini laptop, I came up with a few gift ideas that I COULD WANT, but I don't need. I have everything I need at the moment.

But here's just a few thoughts. (I mean I still have 3 months to go for Pete's sake.hehe)

A. Jim Lee's book ICONS or The Art of Jim Lee.

Jim Lee used to be my favourite artist back in high school. When he came out with that X-Men issue cover, I got hooked. After a while, he withdrew from drawing and headed to higher pastures which he deserved. These books are a tribute to his wonderful God-given talent.

or

B. A subscription to my fave mag at the moment, MONOCLE.
Now I may not read books atm, but MONOCLE rocks my boat. It's smart, innovative, well designed, informative and is my new Bible. (just a pun) I used to subscribe, until I became a full pledged adult and mortgages, investment properties and bills got the better of me. *boooo*

So if you could be so nice...

Your beloved,
Dan

I've stopped...

2011-04-09T01:03:00.002+10:00

It's sad. As I quickly went in to peruse the latest mags at BORDERS Bookstore in Perth, it dawned on me that I've stopped reading books.

No particular reason, except that I haven't been inspired by any of late. Last book I read was...I can't even remember.

But fans, don't fret. I still buy and read magazines and when I can afford it, I also buy mangas. In fact, I'm on the constant look out for Mitsuri Adachi's big fat manga called Cross Game at bookdepository at a much cheaper price and they deliver for free. (this site is supposed to be a national secret, but I figured, no one really reads my blog all that much so a few people could know I suppose.hehe)

Double sadness is that BORDERS all over the country are closing down. Even the one at Parramatta and Adelaide. It breaks my heart. They had a great selection of magazines local and foreign that I always liked to peruse. The selection in Singapore wasn't crash hot but it'll do. My only cringe was that they were still quite pricey and their V.I.P card wasn't really doing much for me. I could find the same book for a much cheaper price elsewhere.

If only they did things to the magazines that would've enticed me much much better.

Might head to Parra tomorrow and pay my respects.

Now if Kinokuniya in the city ever shut down, I might slit a wrist. Pray to God no. :-O

Earthquake Again...moouuuuuu???

2011-04-08T02:04:00.000+10:00

As I was about to go to bed at our hotel in Perth, a new Breaking News about another earthquake in Tokyo with a 7.1 magnitude squeezed my heart.

To think that these people have suffered enough this past month especially in Sendai. And now an aftershock.

Luckily, no one was hurt and nothing has fallen so far.

But that blue light??? I understand there's a scientific explanation to it, but I'm wondering why there has only been one captured footage of it. In a nation full of camera phones and advanced technology.

The believable explanation so far has been:
"It's a natural phenomena caused by extreme pressure and movements of rocks causing some sort of electrical activity. You can get this in small scale if you rub 2 quarts crystals together in the dark you get tiny blue lights."

Fair enough.

The comment that made me fall off my seat and cack was:
"U GUYS ALL STUPID, EVEN THE MEDIA. ITS GOKU USING SPIRIT BOMB DUUH!!!" and it being Tokyo and Japan, this made perfect sense to me.

My 2 cents worth is that a huge explosion has occurred and has released all the mermaids or it's some secret alien invasion.

What's yours???

Did you read this???

2011-04-06T23:32:00.002+10:00

Eat sugar and lose weight (with these 8 naughty treats with satisfyingly low calories)
April 5, 2011, 10:17 am shine lifestyle channels

Sugar lover's rejoice! Eating a sweet every now and then can help you lose weight.

Good news! Candy isn’t bad for you–or not all bad for you, at least. According to a newly released study of 15,000 adults, “people who eat candy and chocolate tend to have smaller waists, weigh less and have a lower body mass index than those who don’t indulge in these treats.” Do candy eaters have magic metabolisms? Not at all. According to researchers, they are just able to limit themselves to about 1.3 ounces of candy per day, which rarely exceeds more than 200 calories.

Though candy eaters seemed to eat more calories overall, they were likely to exercise more too, thus giving themselves permission to indulge a little and thus avoid out-of-control cravings. Other benefits of indulging a little were a general “14 percent lower risk of elevated blood pressure and a 15 percent decreased risk of having metabolic syndrome.”

So what’s a good amount of sweets? “No more than 10 percent of daily calories” from sweet treats says a dietitian, which is 140-200 calories for the average woman. Try one of these 8 naughty treats for 200 satisfying calories or less.

GALLLERY: Low-calorie sweets
Jelly Belly Jelly Beans – 35 beans = 140 calories
Mix and match flavors for your own personal blend.

Starbuck’s Grande Skinny Macchiato = 140 calories
Why take a tasteless coffee break? Get some calcium plus a sweet treat.

Nestle Mint Pattie 1 = 150 caloriesCreamy as ice cream with a touch of sweetness.
Get satisfying mouth-tingling mint and chocolate in a few sizable bites.

Haagen Dazs Peach Frozen Yogurt – ½ cup = 170 calories
Creamy as ice cream with a touch of sweetness

Pretzel M&Ms - 10 M&Ms = 150 calories
This sweet and salty treat has the lowest calorie count of the M&M flavors.

Dunkin’ Donuts - 3 munchkins = 150 calories
Small doughnuts are always the way to go.

Coca-Cola - 1 can = 140 calories
Yes, we know we say it’s the most evil substance in the world, but if it occasionally hits the spot we won’t tell! Just don’t make it a pack-a-day habit.

Streets Paddle Pop Moo - 1 pop = 87 calories
If you had to choose any ice cream, choose a paddle pop. Its low cal and every bite reminds you of days playing in the backyard as a kid. What a treat!

Zumba...

2011-04-05T23:42:00.001+10:00

Ok so I was super curious about this new craze. Both sisters are doing it. Must be something and TVs all over it.

So, in my attempt to keep to my weight, I thought I'd try Zumba at my sister's local. The fact that it's some Filo chic doing the classes by herself is admirable. She must've gotten a certificate and opened up lessons by herself. And gladly, the small Filo community in my area supports it including my sister.

Funnily enough, I knew the instructor! Ha! It was Ces. She used to go to Antioch with me. I knew her brother better in the good ol' days and she came to one of our weekends or something. I thought that was hilarious.

I think I made her conscious though. I am one of her 'Kuya's' in Antioch and now I'm doing her classes.hahaha I should've been the one embarrassed as the moves we're obviously not catered for men with all the kembot involved. She did well and she's all grown-up now with her own business. Nice.

All in all: But... maybe Zumba is not for me. :( Don't get me wrong. I sweated. But I may need to seek a male instructor. The intensity level just didn't meet my expectations and I guess I needed more guys in the class. I kinda felt left out. :( :( It's aerobics class all over again with the added Salsa bureche and I expected more.

Moreso that I'd rather dance K-Pop. Now that...that's intense!!!hehe

9th month....

2011-03-30T00:33:00.001+11:00

Happy 9 months Birthday baby Mikael troy!!!

You're soooo big na!!! Keep smiling..we heart you soooo much!!!

I HEART SINGAPORE...Day 1

2011-03-28T21:18:00.001+11:00

So this is my 3rd Regional trip in my short life so far as a flight attendant. And this time it brings me to Singapore. YAY!!!

It's only a short 24hr slip but heck, that IS one day I'm definitely going to take advantage of.

Mind you, this is not my first trip to the much "talked about" city of Singapore. I was here eons ago but alas, I have a memory of a Goldfish. :( All I can remember was, who I was with, the lunch we had at some Indian restaurant in Little India where we ate from a banana leaf, the T-shirt I bought with some elephant Budha print on it which I thought was cool (and only wore it like twice) and, the park with the Merlion and the white beach. Oh and maybe the cable car??? And the Safari Park. (or is that KL???) Hmmm. Like I said...eons ago.

On the other hand, I did work for SQ for TDAS for about 2 years and everyone I checked-in went there. They all LOVE it!!! Even my friends brags about it. So lemme tell ya MY Singapore. *erhem*

Firstly, I wasn't too impressed with the Airport when we arrived!? *awww already?* I dunno. I was expecting something smashy-fancy and super techy airport like JFK in NY or Barajas in Madrid or the new BA airport in LHR. Not carpets and orchids and all that Asian stuff. Changi Airport reminded me off the bigger version of the airport in Okinawa. *yawn* Not impressed.

Landed at about 6:30 in the evening and I knew I didn't have much time left. Passengers were good and crew I was getting to know also. Dusk was due at any minute and I needed to get myself at the Marina Bay Sands for some night pics and a geezer at that chocolate shop Ann keeps yapping about. Bus was uber uber cool. Like a spaceship from the future. Or maybe it was just the big ass drivers window, the swirly stairs and the lights that got me!!! All it needed was a minibar and vids on the seat and I would BUY that awesome bus!!!hehehe (like for real dude!)

We whizzed past through coconut palmed trees with the setting of the ocean and ship liners and the sunset on the background. Families having their picnics and bike rides. Awwww...I'm swinging. I'm starting to slowly love Singapore.

Crew was busy chatting as we finally came up a bridge with a view of this weird ass tower building with a reptile like ship stacked on top of it. In the foreground is a huge-ass Ferry's Wheel. Ahhhh...that is the new Marina Bay Sands, one of the crew explains with a few more minor details.

That was it!!! The target for tonight. No chatting and hanging out with the crew at the hotel bar. I don't drink anyways so what's the point making mini chit-chats. I could do that on the plane on the way back.hihihi I have a mission to complete.

Swiss Hotel, The Stanford, Singapore. Wow, from the pics, this place is huge! We pass by Raffles Hotel on the way (more chit-chat and infos from the crew) and loads of Asian restaurants that seems to be full. Singaporeans must be loaded because the restaurants were full. Ahhh, Saturday night of course. Raffles Hotel looked nice with good architecture from the past. Reminds me of old Philippines but a lot more snazzy.

We were ushered past the Concierge and unto our crew check-in area. I love the feeling of walking past guests with the whole crew lugging our bags. Everyone turns their heads with awe and it makes you feel important. Nice.

The check-in was swift. We all got our keys, discussed our plans for the evening and headed to the elevator. I bid them all good night. I had my own plans.

I was blessed with the 32nd floor. My colleagues are jealous. "How did you end up on that floor on your 1st night???" *beh* Beginner's luck baby!!! OMG..."Mum look at that view!!!" It's SUPERB!!! People pay loads of dosh for a view like this. I am a lucky duck!!! Amen to God for a job that gives me this view. WOW!!! How breathtaking.

Turned the TV on whilst I quickly ironed my shirt. Singapore TV looked boring so I quickly turned to Korean KBS channel to watch more K-Dramas. Nice. Time to head off.

First stop was the mall underneath my hotel to exchange money. Apparently, crew gets a better rate which ended up to AUD$1 = SIN $1.27, two cents higher. (wow!) Exchanged $100. That should do me. The mall underneath had all the cakes galore, food stalls, book and CDs shop (people still buy CDs here??? Oh Limewire how I miss thou) and pharmacies. Unfortunately because of Lent and my annual abstinence, I couldn't even touch any of the food down there. Look but no touch. Ouch! It was interesting to know the also had MOS Burger from Japan. Plus the pharmacies had heaps of Japanese stuff. Yes! Singapore is Japan's lover. Must be.hehe Had to get out of temptation and achieve my goal. PS. That area that I thought was the mall actually was a small link to a bigger mall nestled within two hotels. OMG...little did I know!?

Stepped outside to the humidity and headed to Suntec Mall. Maybe they had better choices of food there. Passed by Starbucks to check out Mum's pasalubong of mugs. S$19.50??? Ouch. Lucky the exchange rate was reasonable.

Finally ended up in Food Republic. (their nice way of saying Foodcourt.hehe) This place is Awesome!!! The walls are glued with wallpaper that looks like the Library and tonnes of book. I like! The food stalls are also AMAZING and CHEAP!!! Could I live here??? Yes sirreeee!!! Ended up with Tuk Tuk Mee. Don't ask. All I know is that it's like dried noodles and crisps and sweet pork all for S$5.00. (AUD$3.95) Score!!! It was nice. Thought I'd treat me to a nice refreshing and healthy drink too. Bought a dragonfruit and mango juice. Hmmm...interesting. But not punchy enough.

Walked around the Mall a bit and was surprised to find Cotton On with better stock than the ones we have in Sydney. WTFaarkk??? Nearly bought S$38 shoes for work too at some shoe shop that had 70% off. But resisted temptation.

Finally walked to Marina Bay Sands after passing through malls after malls. This is what I call a PULSE!!! Singapore on a Saturday night was still packed with young-uns at 10:30pm. Nice. Clubbing mustn't be a thing here!? Or drinking. To see so much people out and about impressed me a lot. I Heart Singapore.

The bridge to Marina Bay Sands was uberly architeched. Really modern and cool and swirly with fancy lights. No wonder tourists here come with their tripods and huge SLRs. You need it to capture THE lights and the beauty of this modern city. I too wished I had a tripod. But no need. A good photographer shall find means.

"The Hotel at Marina Bay Sands is perfectly positioned to overlook the buzzing city center of Singapore. No matter which of the 18 different types of rooms you decide to stay, you will be treated to unforgettable views of the glittering city skyline or the endless serene sea" so says the blurb on their site. I agree. This place is a palace!!!

With expensive shopping, a Casino, a Science Museum, entertainment, dining and bars and an observatory that'll cost you S$20.00 to go up, I would think so.

I searched high and low for that damned chocolate cafe that Ann bragged about. After sighting High Society cafe at the lower floor of the mall, I wasn't too sure if this is what she was referring to or some other higher floored cafe near the Observatory? But I figured, with me being on the 32nd floor of my hotel, I didn't need to go to some Observatory. I have that view for FREE courtesy of work. Thank you QF!!! Plus, I wouldn't be allowed in the bar anyways with my casual outfit. Settled that this must be the chocolate cafe and took pics. I must save the devouring much much later when abstinence has seized. I pray for strength!!

Failed Ann. But at least I got to see MBS, it's majesty and took loads of cool pics. (as above)

Headed back to the hotel past midnight. And the pulse was still on. People were still walking around. AMAZING!!! This was like Berlin all over again. In fact, Singapore could be the Berlin and Paris of Asia. I like.

On that note, I do..."I ❤ Singapore".

Jakarta-ing...

2011-03-18T21:27:00.000+11:00

Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia. Population: 8,530,016 all crammed in one city. Just like most Asian countries, when we arrived, it was humid, crowded (noticeable with all the bikes on the street) and the traffic was horendous.

The transition between our aircraft to Customs was a breeze, except they've lost my luggage. We knew this from the moment we boarded the plane.

2011-03-11T23:43:00.002+11:00

Oh woes...Japan!!! What 'appened???

My brother and sister-in-law were all super worried. Ambie has a cousin in Japan and I have heaps of friends there too. Lucky Fukui wasn't at all affected so I'm assuming everyone is alright.

You just never never know eh. First Christchurch, and now this. Woes. Woes. Woes.

Wallpaper Jan 2011...

2011-03-11T10:55:00.002+11:00

Mum had just brought home a copy of Wallpaper Magazine the January 2011 edition. I was a bit perplexed because she usually brings home trash mags Grazia, Who, Hello or Famous, and if I get lucky a copy of GQ UK.

So when I asked her, "Did you bring that Wallpaper mag home?"
She said, "Yes, I thought you liked that magazine?"
I said, "Hell ya!"
Then her final reply was, "Yeah we have it at work, it's free, so I thought I'd bring you home one." I fell off my chair again.

A super long time ago, I wanted to desperately (wow, I'm using this word a lot these days) blog about everything that's happening in my life. Including the great magazines I read and what I learn from them. Somewhere in the middle I stopped and lost track of time, or I got lethargic.

But browsing through Wallpaper with morning breakfast inspired me again. I had forgotten how great this magazine could be. Especially for us interested in design, architecture, travel and fashion. Monocle magazine kinda took over my life that's why.

Let me tell you some great things about this issue:

I wish I had more time...

2011-03-11T10:21:00.003+11:00

Gawd, I sound like I'm dying.haha I'm not.

But there are days when I wished I had more time to do all sorts of stuff. This is sometimes invaded by lethargicness when I get "DVD Days" and all I want to do is bum around. But I shouldn't feel guilty. We all have those days.

I'm downloading tonnes of shows like the whole Mike and Molly show which is at present moment at eps 18. I heart this show!!! Not only because they can laugh about themselves, but it's just a really good love story with an added good-friend-sidekick on the side.

Just found out that V 2009 has a sequel and it's on it's second season. I really thought that the ratings of this show went down last year. But I'm a fan...and was a fan of the original show when I was like 5 or something. I still remember them eating rats and making people in tubes. That was so cool. Freak, they're on eps 9 and NO ONE TOLD ME!!!hahaha I'll catch up.

Spartacus is also on season 2. I've only seen one episode so far but I have all episode 7. Not to mention that True Blood season 4 will soon air. OMG.

Currently watching Boys Over Flowers, a Korean drama. I've been at it every night before bed. There are sod moments on that show and sometimes they really prolong the story by super stretching something out. Then I shake my head. But it's good practise for my Korean and I'm glad they're supposed to be High School students so they speak colloquially, but I've never really seen them pick up a book, worry about a certain assignment or even had a glance of their teacher or Principal. With all the mishaps that happens to Jan Di you'd think a teacher would finally get involved. But the F4 are too powerful. And the show is soooooo super rich that they've got helicopters and episode after episode of travelling. Where do they get all the money from, not to mention their outfits. Then there's the new characters that appearing at each episode it sometimes baffles me if I can keep up. Look at me go on.

I still have to also finish Korean Life is Beautiful (which I stopped watching because the site I got the downloads from stopped at eps 30 and I fell off my chair) and Man Who Can't Get Married. I've managed to finally track all the shows down and download them, but need time to watch. I have Coffee House waiting and Ann has suggested a tonne of other Korean shows she's also obsessing with.

Did I mention I've also subscribed to a tonne of shows on YouTube and I'm desperately trying to catch up on that. Like Emmerdale, 90210, Goede Tyden etc.

On my off days when I just want to watch something light, I turn back to anime and am desperately trying to catch up on Bleach. I'm like 300 episodes behind.hahaha

Still haven't caught up with Glee, Brothers and Sisters and Desperate Housewives. Plus I have tonnes of movies and other shows that I've bought on my previous trip. Then I'm going on two more trips these next weekends. That's DVD galore there. Can you see where I'm coming from here?

I try to exercise when I can. But now Lent is here as well.

I wish I had more time to watch all these shows!!! I do. But with work and chores and babysitting my baby nephew on the hand...I don't know where to find time. I'm sure I'll figure it out.

Speaking of Korean, I've also stopped my lessons for some reason. I got too busy sorting my Flight Attendant life to a better position and I'm getting the knack of it now. So watch this space.hehehe

My room is a tidy mess and I should really plan to move back in there by winter. I've just gotten stuck downstairs where the DVD is and I never moved back up. I should really find time to clean my room too.

Plus cleaning the house and the back of the house, sorting all the junk there and throwing things out. The backyard has turned into a jungle again and hopefully these coming days I may be able to sort some things out.

I wanted to sell tonnes of stuff on eBay but haven't done that.

I have tonnes of things to document, magazines to read, blogs to blog, but I haven't found time O...M...G, what am I to do?

Speaking of magazines, man I'm tempted to go shopping (or window shopping at least) and there are a million things that are enticing in there, but I have no money. And I won't catch up probably until the end of the year. Shuck.

On the other hand, I've been busy setting my house up for lease, I've managed to clean up there a bit, I've gone to church every Sunday, I've fulfilled most of my duties to the family especially to Ate and Mikael, I do what I can at home and certainly haven't called in sick yet for work. So...all in all, there is somewhat a balance there. And have caught up with a few friends, others not. *shrugs* What can I do? I'm only one person.hehe

Being an adult again...

2011-02-28T22:54:00.000+11:00

Finally braved it to the Real Estate agents and signed the forms to lease my new house. *sigh* Another adult event in my life. Hopefully, with the agent I chose, they'll work hard for me and get the amount I want. Then I can start breathing a little and start re-enjoying life a bit more without me constantly waking up and thinking about bills.haha

Here's another snapshot of the pages they've listed my house:

Stroke of bad luck?

2011-02-11T10:42:00.003+11:00

Yesterday, as I was driving through the M4 around Parramatta way, a car weezed pass me and a small rock hit my windscreen and smashing it and creating cracks throughout the screen. How ironic. Like super! This was the same time I was thinking about the bills I still needed paying, the new amount my cousin texted me about my condo that still needed paying in the Philippines and when I'm going to start breathing again from all these debts.

Then the rock happened which added to the frustration. *double sigh*

I prayed to God and asked what I did to deserve this? Either that or I have balat sa pwet. :(

I thought about how much this car was taking away from my pocket. Rego last Nov nearly cost me an arm and a leg and I had to replace a wheel too. I had to replace the fuel pump earlier before that. Then the oil filter started leaking in late Dec causing fumes to rise out of my bonnet and causing me grief in Jan costing me the other arm and leg. Had to renew my license around mid Jan. And now this...

God what's next???

I'm really hoping that insurance covers accidents like these. *fingers crossed* Because at the rate I'm going, I don't know how much more I can take???

I was talking to a Melbourne crew last night about the incident. And I was telling her that I was thankful that I AM LIVING THE DREAM!!! But I haven't had the chance to truly enjoy the dream with all the roller coaster I'm going through and my starving wallet.

C'est la vie.

NB: On a better note, Mikael is 6.2 kilos now which means he's growing and I recieved a big box of GQ Magazines from a stranger in the US and I don't know why? I haven't been on eBay for ages so this comes as a TOTAL SURPRISE!!! I'm thinking it's a super old transaction and this guy just realised his mistake sending me 8 copies of his GQ magazines. The stories that goes on in my head...

Tet Festival...

2011-02-05T22:07:00.000+11:00

Ate, (the adventurous) Mikael and I thought we'd scope out the Tet Festival (the Vietnamese Chinese New Year celebrations) at Fairfield this year sans our usual gang of Hieu, Ate Dah and Ann. I think it's better and a lot more romantic at their old spot at Chipping Norton and it had a lot more ambiance with the willows and all. :(

Though I'm not the biggest fan of this location...I thought why not. Something to do.

Here are just of the few pics of the night.

I think the highlight of the night is the ice shave. I don't usually have this, but I have to give it to the halfie who's parents probably made him do this job. Poor guy. In the heat of summer and manually shaving ice, I have to give you the price buddy. Food was ok too this year. Where's Hieu?!?! We need your guidance buddy.

Mikael's 1st Beach Day...

2011-02-05T13:23:00.000+11:00

...and just sleeping it off.haha That's ok. :) Doens't he look sweet.

Skybedding...

2011-02-04T20:27:00.000+11:00

Some of the perks of this job is when we 'pax', a term we use when we're LUCKY enough NOT to operate on a flight and just become a regular passenger. Sometimes we need to do this with our uniforms on (just in case we do need to suddenly operate on the flight) or we can gladly change into something businesslike in order for us to enjoy a glass of wine or so and just put our feet up, relax, enjoy a movie (like how I got to finally watch Buried with Ryan Reynolds) and all the garlands that comes in Business Class. Oh yeah, we also often get to do this at Business Class. Like almost ALWAYS. All in all...we're LUCKY!!! Super!!!

Note all the Capital Letters on this post.

And sometimes, the cherry gets added on top and we get to pax on the Airbuses with it's own luxury Skybeds. MY 1st SKYBED!!! A-W-E-S-O-M-E!!! I'd like to thank my parents and God.hahaha Nah, seriously, amen.

I remember distinctly having 'A Moment'. With my soundproof head seats, listening to some mellow and beautifl music, whilst watching the sunset at the horizon.

Ahhhh...These are 'What Dreams Are Made Of'!!! Amen.

Darlene's Farewell...

2011-02-02T21:04:00.000+11:00

I'm so glad when friends take heed and follow wise advice. Get out while you can!!!hahaha

Congrats Darlene & Good Luck at Toll in Brisbane

And that's what Darlene did. Ok, ok, so our job at the Int Airport really ain't that bad. (I loved it actually) The people we work/check-in/arrivals/departures with are great! The ambience of the whole airport thing and big planes is exciting! You have a lot of downtime waiting for aircrafts and the pay isn't so bad, especially when you get promoted and get to move around to do the other airlines. It's the bosses that aren't so crash hot, approchable or friendly and when that happens, YOU NEED TO GET OUT!!! It's unhealthy. So I'm glad she's moving to other division up in Brisbane and hopefully management is way better there.

Two of my fave 'Brews' at Toll. Darlene & Janie.

Congrats Darlene on making the move! Dinner was celerbrated at some cafe up in Burwood which was pretty cool. Would come back.

PS. Petiola also joined the shindig but was late so I didn't get to take her a photo...:(

Come Fly With Me...

2011-02-01T23:43:00.004+11:00

The brilliant duo of Matt Lucas David Walliams are at it again with, their new BBC comedy Come Fly With Me set in an airport and following the lives of the people who hold it all together – including airline owners, check-in staff, fast-food workers, immigration officers, pilots and cabin crew, as well as the very odd and funny passengers (seen them all) to get to know and fall in love with all over again. Yay!!! Some of the characters you'll meet are Precious from the coffee shop (love her already!!!), Nanako and Asuka (the two Japanese students who've travelled half the globe to meet their fave star...awesome-ness "Too shy too shy!!!") and FlyLo check-in chics Melody and Keely. If Keely applies herself, I believe she could be the star of this new show!!! "Yeah but no but...!?"

In their pilot episode, "80-year-old Hetty Wolf prepares to embark on her first-ever flight with Great British Air. Simon and Jackie attempt to sort out their marriage whilst piloting a plane at 35,000 feet above Sweden. Omar Baba the owner of low-cost carrier FlyLo finds himself being forced to do something about the lack of life-jackets on his planes."

And just when I thought TV was on the brink of dying, the roller coaster comes tumbling back all over again. *gibbidy gibbidy double yay!!!*

OF COURSE I heart it already...(they've already completed 6 eps)

Roll over...

2011-01-31T22:37:00.002+11:00

Mikael has finally rolled over. I just came home from an overnight and what do I find...I find my nephew sleeping on his side.

No one would really understand a baby's little achievements unless you have a baby at home, and you wait anxiously for little things that change each and everyday.

He'll be crawling soon!!! Yay for Mikael.hehe

Mike and Molly...

2011-01-22T21:48:00.004+11:00

There isn't much on TV that's really quenching my appetite hence I've settled to watch GMA 7 shows live on HayagTV, old episodes of Coffee Prince on DVD (that I asked Papa to buy when he went to Phils) and Bleach.

But I am liking Mike and Molly, and since we have unlimited downloads now at home (Thanks TPG!!!) and Chi-chai has vids saving abilities, I can now prep myself and download heaps of stuff, so that I have things to watch when I'm doing overnigths. (like tomorrow)

"MIKE & MOLLY" is a comedy from Chuck Lorre ("Two and a Half Men" and "The Big Bang Theory") about a working class Chicago couple who find love at an Overeaters Anonymous meeting. Officer Mike Biggs (Billy Gardell) is a good-hearted cop who sincerely wants to lose weight. Mike's partner, Officer Carl McMillan (Reno Wilson), is a thin, fast-talking wise-guy, who despite his teasing encourages Mike on his road to slimness and romance. While speaking at an O.A. meeting, Mike meets Molly Flynn (Melissa McCarthy), an instantly likeable fourth-grade teacher with a healthy sense of humor about her curves. For Molly, focusing on smart choices isn't easy because she lives with her sexy older sister, Victoria (Katy Mixon), and their mother, Joyce (Swoosie Kurtz), both of whom flaunt their healthy appetites and slender figures. Mike also faces temptation at the diner he and Carl frequent, where they've become friends with the Senegalese waiter, Samuel (Nyambi Nyambi), who finds trying to eat less a foreign concept. For "Mike and Molly", thanks to their mutual love of pie and the desire to resist it, finding each other may have been worth the "weight."

The show seems witty and it has Melissa McCarthy from the Gilmore Girls. Mike and Carl's cops partner-relationship has also a lot of gags which might make this show one of the funniest from this year. The waiter from the coffee lounge is a cack!!!bwahaha

And to share, you can watch full episodes online from Wisevid.com. (though it doesn't yet seem to be all complete!?) There's also casttv.com but some of the episodes seems to lead you to wisevid. But try it anyways. I haven't fully explored the potential of wisevids but if it can show a full 20min episode, then I'm happy with that. I want to know how far casttv goes as well so watch this space...

I think it's funny so it's up to you. I'm a fan so far.hehe

I was there...

2011-01-13T22:09:00.004+11:00

I was there...

I was a bit adamant and confused when I checked for my next schedule for the next 3 days. They were sending me on a 3 Day trip with 2 overnights in Brisbane.

Now don't get me wrong. I love Brisbane. I think it's my next favourite city in Australia followed by Melbourne and then Perth. Just wasn't sure of the situation with the flooding and if we're still flying there at the moment???

But they're sending me so I guess so. So by 0515, I was at the airport for my duty. I was quite excited actually as our 1st aircraft is the A330. Finally, I'll get to ride the Airbus. Yay!!!

But news and rumours were milling around the galleys. "Floods in the city", "Why are they sending you there?", "All the shops are closed! Looks like in room dining for you?!"

I had to see it for myself. The cover of the Daily Telegraph was devastating enough and the news was awful. The news on QTV didn't help.

But was it all hyped up??? I arrived in Brisbane Airport at 11:35 and everything seems normal? No panic, no talk or buzz...nada? What's going on?

My cab driver picked me up and I asked for an update. She mentioned some things, but they didn't seem as terrible as they say. We passed houses unaffected by anything. We passed a cool cafe flooded by people enjoying themselves. Got to the hotel with people drinking at the bar? I took a long stroll ate Roma Parkland's (which is awesome and beautiful by the way) and I saw families and friends playing soccer at their pristine mowed lawns. Is it really that serious?

Probably not the main CBD, even if roads are closed and Albert, Alice and Margaret Streets are affected. It's probably the outskirts like Ipswich and surround that are crying their hearts out. I saw the pic of a suburb with only roofs floating. Sad. :(

After my nap, I walked around the CBD to capture the moment. And yes, some streets smelt like sewer. If you walked some streets you'd think you're in Asia or Brazil or some 3rd World Country. Main streets are deserted and the city feels like a ghost town due to road blocks. Most have opted to stay home. And to some, this has become a tourist spot good for photo ops.

I'm here. I'm lucky to be ok. We're very lucky that these things doesn't happen in Sydney and my family are all fine. I'm thankful! Amen to God.

Ate???

2011-01-10T19:58:00.002+11:00

I was just browsing for some images of Bleach and ran into this pic. Seems oddly familliar???

In fact I thought it looks like my Ate??? Donchathunk?

Pissing...

2011-01-10T19:44:00.003+11:00

My nephew just pissed on his face. Funny haha!!! I wasn't there to witness it, but my Mum (Lola) re-tells it in a hilarious way.

Apparently whilst nappy changing he peed and it went all the way to his face wetting his face and undershirt.

Ah pure talent Mikael, pure talent!!!