The Palawan Experience

Lots of fun, beautiful beaches, and calm. We had to take an airplane to get there (a one hour flight) where I got massive headaches, but I guess it was worth it. My trip:

-went to the airport, only to discover my parents forgot their bag. Worried we were going to miss the plane, but timing turned out okay.
-when we got to the airport, we had to take a bus to the plane, a ride that lasted about 1 minute. That minute, however, was mostly filler as if the bus drove to the plane straight instead of making a big U-turn, we could have gotten there in 10 seconds. It was quite funny how short the busride was.
-we got to Puerto Princessa, the capital city of Palawan. Talking about how small the airport was, the baggage "car" consisted of a man pushing a cart after unloading the luggage from the plane. Again, quite a funny sight. Oh, and the security measures compared to Canada were very stringent. I say that sarcastically, because I am not sure if they even know what they were looking for. And if they found a bomb, what would they do? Get the baggage man to push it away with his cart?
-we stayed at the Palawan Village Hotel. Hotel may be a misnomer, as it was more like a big house. At least there was A/C and a TV and a shower! My dad is funny: he was complaining there was no remote control for the TV. Considering we had a brownout, I think electricity should be more of a concern.
-first day there we went to the grocery store to get lunch for the following day. Palawan I think is Tricyclecity Philippines. So many, so dirty.
-at the grocery store, I saw a Japanese drink there with Engrish labels: "Invisible but can be drink" and "Cannot be seen but can be drinked"
-ate dinner at a seaside restaurant with a piano man as entertainment. Good sisig, good food.
-woke up early the next day and had breakfast at the hotel. Man, EVERY MEAL Filipinos eat must have rice. This place must be an insulin-makers dream.
-we went to Honda Bay and rented two small boats with drivers to take us Island Hopping. We went to three different islands, taking about 45 minutes to get there. It was a nice ride. I took pictures, but I'll have to post them when I get back.
-did a lot of swimming and snorkling. I put so much sunscreen, but still ended up getting burnt on my shoulders and back. I should've gotten SPF1000.
-Tuna salad and corned beef sandwiches for lunch. Sarap!
-after spending the whole day island hopping, we got back to the hotel where I took one of the best showers of my life. We then went to eat out at a restaurant called "kinabuch". What did they serve there? Filipino food and rice of course. I really don't think Sharon can survive here.
-slept early, woke up early. Went to the market one last time, and went for a Black Gulaman run at Chow King before we left. I am drinking so much of the stuff, I think I'll be sick of it when I get home. But in the meantime, I love it!
-back on the plane, back with a headache.

All in all, a great trip. Got to know my cousins Noe and Paolo more, especially my adorable cousin Nina. When we went to the market, I had to tell people "hindi ako marunong mg salita ng tagalog" taught to me by her. They looked at me like I was going to take them away to a different world. At least, I think they did. I like to boost my ego every once in a while.

I also learned to text message like crazy now. I knw Im in d Pilpns whn all i do is txt. I evn txt Shrn, ArJ n Nee in Cda.

Going out with my cousins Rocky and Mye today, possibly to get fitted for my Barong. My Tito Frank and family from San Fran is also coming today. Holy family reunion.

I'm getting bitten by mosquitos like crazy here. At least they won't have high cholesterol due to the crestor.

First Full Day Here And

It's still frikin' hot. Not that I'm complaining or anything, but damn. Add on top of that there is air conditioning in the room I slept in and air conditioning in the cars I travelled, and it equals even more coughing and headaching. But whatever, so far I'm having a great time, meeting all sorts of family and what not. So, a quick bulleted version of what I did today (hopefully in chronological order):

-woke up at 5:30am, after going to bed at 2:30am. I guess Nina was right in that you wake up really early in the morning here and can't go back to bed.
-went to Las Pinas with Tito Manny driving the Grand Vitara to pick up Ate Carol and Kuya Rocky. We then proceeded to go cemetary-hopping, visiting Tito Boy, then Lolo Manoling, then Lolo Mario/Tito Oiram/Lola Bun.
-stopped for lunch at Chow King, a Chinese fast food joint. I had beef and wonton mami. I also bought lunch for everyone else. The total cost for feeding 6 people? About $13Can. $13!!! Considering how cheap food is here, I can't forsee this trip being light on eating out. Luckily my Doctor said my cholesterol levels are normal again (and yes, no excuse, but I'm on vacation, it's hard to control).
-while at Chow King, I noticed a food stand that sold fish balls and squid balls. The name was "KISS -- King of Balls" (I thought it was hilarious for some reason)
-went to Sangandaan, Caloocan City to see Tita Nory and family. I also met all sorts of new nephews. They laughed at me because I can't speak tagalog. I then proceeded to give them 1 Pesos each. They now love me.
-speaking of where Tita Nory lives, I was somewhat surprised at how...sparse?...their homes were. As well, getting there we passed by shanty towns. Sometimes I lose sight at how lucky I really am to be living in a country where the standards of living are so high. But at the same time, everyone here seems happy and somewhat carefree. Not that it's an equal payoff, but it still amazes me to think where my Mom grew up and how she lived to how it is now. Oh, and the names of the family I met today? Tita Nory, Tito Elfren (Tita Nory's husband), Michelle (Tita Nory's youngest), Yumi, Miguel and Gel (Michelle's kids), Joshua (Tita Nory's eldest Jennifer's adopted boy who also happens to be Tito Bobot, my Mom's brother's kid), Monay (Tito Bobot's eldest), Tyrone (Monay's eldest), Monay's youngest (forgot her name) and Boboy's (Tito Bobot's eldest boy) wife and newborn kid. We also met Anthony (my second cousin) and Tito Boy Dilat (Anthony's Dad) and their family. Whew.
-went back to Las Pinas and met my other Goddaughter, Sophie, who is Ate Carol's eldest. Oh, and her youngest child, whose name escapes me right now, but she was ultra chubby cute. Had breadsticks stuffed with cheese and meat, a product Ate Carol sells at a mall. Wasn't too bad.
-went back to Paranaque, slept in my sweat for about 20 minutes, then Kuya Rocky, Ate Mylene (Ate Carol's sister), Kia (their daughter and my Goddaughter), her supershy elder sister (forgot her name right now too...damn, it's really hot), and Ate Carol came to pick my parents and I up to take us to the Duty Free Mall near the airport.
-my parents bought a lot of stuff, and all I bought were postcards. Wow. I did, however, treat for Jollibee, a McDonald's type of chain here. The food was typical fast food. The total cost for feeding 8 people? $15!!! So I also splurged another dollar and had Kenny Roger's Roasters Corn Muffins (which I sorely miss when Kenny went belly up in Canada).
-went back to Paranaque, where I now have to pack for tomorrow's trip to Palawan, where we have to take a small plane to get there. According to Kuya Rocky, who is a funny guy, the name of the airline we are taking is called Asia Spirit (that is the actual name of the airline we are travelling): the airline where you leave Asia but arrive in Spirit. A ha a ha a...hmmmm....hope it's not actually true.
-other thoughts from today: traffic is bad; the whole "4 driving lines is actually 8 driving lines in the Phlippines" thought is true; there are a lot of stray animals here; if any of my workmates were to come here, their heads would explode due to the "water source safety" and "food safety" that is being practiced here; if I were to live here I would like to have a motorcycle and drive like a lunatic; and, I would not like to live here. Hey, I grew up in a different environment that I love. Why would I?
-Oh, and Sharon's name came up a lot and how she prolly wouldn't be able to visit here for long because she may not be hungry due to lost appetite. It may be very true too. But hey, all my relatives said she looks "exotic" and "pretty." I wholeheartedly agree with them. Barf!

Off to Palawan! But first, to the shower...

Made It!

And the first thing that comes to my mind as soon as I stepped foot in this country? "My goodness it's humidly hot"

You can tell when I'm doing my Philippines vacation posts because I am unable to format my posts; so, it will be this plain font and colour.

It's 2:11am here, which means it's 2:11pm in Mississauga. I have a killer headache going on right now, but at least I didn't barf in the airplane. The headache and dizziness, though, can be blamed on the trip here.

Today I met all my nieces and nephews, well, not all of them, but a lot of them. Oh, and of course Tita Nory and family.

Tomorrow we are going cemetary hopping to visit Lolo Mario, Tito Boy, Lola Enyang. I would write more about what happened today, but I think I'm getting tired.

Yehey! Pillapeens!

Dis Ish Is Padedas

P-A-DE-DAS! I'll be leebing, on a jet flane, will be back again in three weeks. I'll see how much I can update this blog, considering I may have limited internet resources. We'll see.

I'll miss everyone, but of course I'll most miss my darling. This would be the longest I've been away from her. Not to sound overtly barfy gay, but what will I do without her? No, I don't sound like a lovesick teenager at all. Three weeks isn't that long, and plus, she will have her long awaited "Sharon time" for herself.

BYE!

And The Wookiee Fascination Continues

Great group shot:

I wonder if any of these guys have the same name

Went shopping today for the last of the "necessities" for my trip. Also took Cheyanne shopping and absolutely spoiled her. She feels bad about me buying her things and actually makes me pretty happy as an Uncle, so I don't mind. As I said to everyone: she's the only relative of mine that does not ask for anything; thus, I buy her something.

Three days left...

Rrrrrrrrraaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!

That's what a Wookie would say. Watched Sith (that's Sith, not Shit) with my Padame. Wasn't too bad. I wanna watch Episodes 4, 5 and 6 again.

As Fozzie used to say, "Wookie wookie wookie" (or something to that effect)

Getting sick again...how the hell? This can't be good, what with 4 days to go before I go. Yikes.

Last Friday Before The Departure

Long day at work, had beef brisket noodle soup from Noodles Delight, spent QT with the GF, bought stuff for the trip from Walmart, went to Kelsey's for Bruschetta with the friends, played a quick round of poker with them, got home, and am left thinking: "this time next week, I'll be on a plane to Palawan!" Yee-uh!

Congraduation Baby!

Went to Sharon's convocation reception today, and met all the smart people. Oh how they would never fit in with a Government agency. They are so geared towards private sector, I felt so out of place.

Then we went to the Great Wok at Central Parkway Mall. 25 years living in Mississauga, and that was the first time I've ever been there. Had a good '80s white-Chinese food feel to it. Everything, however, tasted like corn to me. I dunno.

Getting excited...

Staff Day

At the Mississauga Convention Centre today. Long, but at least not as long and boring as last years. Saw the idiot there who cancelled on Clarica, and didn't say much to him. I better be careful or I might say something I'll regret.

Lately I've been getting more and more angry. At various things. I can't wait to go on this vacation. Get away from all this shit.

Went shopping today with Cheyanne for her First Communion/Birthday/Confirmation gift, but didn't end up getting anything. She kept feeling bad that everything was expensive. I told her not to worry and that I'll take her out another day. I love that kid; she is the one niece I have that is not selfish or greedy. All the other nephews are idiots. Wow...I really, really gotta get out of this place for a while.

Poker Chaump

Finally won at a family poker game against Con, Elmer, Meng and Toots. Then I promptly gave away $5 each to Toots' kids. They are good kids, I'm gonna miss them.

Also met Cheyanne's "boyfriend." Geez Louise it's gonna be a headache with the boys in her life. I am touched, however, that she considers me one of her favourite uncles and that she can tell me things. Then I realize that may mean one of 16 uncles. How special. But anyway, I don't remember being 14 and "in love." Maybe my generation is just different.

Long day at work. Shut down a place, but re-opened it two hours later. Ah well.

Financial Planned Out

Met with Mike today with Sharon. Planning, planning.

* * *

Maybe it's a good time to think about my faith again? I guess it's no surprise because I need something again. I hate the way humans are (myself included). I don't understand why we are the way we are; why some act the way they do. Then again, life is short. Bleh.

Gettin' Too Old

For jogging already? Well crap, the first time I go jogging in a week and a half and now my knees and my ankles are all sorts of messed up. Maybe it is time to invest in new runners...we'll see.

The party with the Cezar/Redublo clan just don't stop, does it? Went there again and ate a lot and hung out with the cousins and nieces and nephews. Even nieces Ashely, Amber and Andrew from Florida, who I don't see at all but it's like we've known each other forever. Family is nice, I wish mine in the future is like that.

Cheyanne also treated me to a movie. That's my niece! She loves one of her favorite Uncles so much she treated me to "The Longest Yard." It was actually a very funny movie. I find scenes with grotesquely huge individuals standing beside average height individuals always funny. And then I extend the laughter by imagining me beside them, since I'm even sorta considered below-average. Oh, and Rob Schnieder is always funny, and in fact he gave me the funniest quote from the movie (aside from the usual, "YOU CAN DO IT!"): "we win! group hug in the shower tonight!"

Hip To HepA

Got my shot today. Ready to go to the Philippines.

Had lunch with Jaime and Kira. Nice people.

Went shopping with Sharon, Meng and my niece Ashley.

Ate chicken balls at Jeff's place. Craving satisfied.

Che's wedding tomorrow.

Full At Midnight

Can't be good. I just came from The Clarkson Pump after my Che's wedding rehearsal. Hope I don't screw up pinning the veil on Saturday.

Also armour-all-ed my car finally. Shiney!

Say it with me: I will make a concerted attempt at not eating out so much and not eating so much junk food.

FOCUS!

My Mastercard Hurts

It's been used thoroughly today:

-graduation gift for Sharon at Donato's. Hope her haircut/styled is everything she wants. She deserves it and way more!

-Imagine these shoes, but only in all white:

Shell toe, not to be confused with Camel toe

I love them, they look grrrrrreat (I read in the paper that the voice for Tony the Tiger died recently. Thus, I had to mention him somehow)

-Uzbekistanian (sp.?) food for lunch. Again, grrrrrrrrreat

-RCA Lyra MP3/FM player. Cheap! Got it from an employee at work for the super low price of sigdy bones. Brand new too...thus, I have to learn how to use it

-finally, one the top movies ever made in my opinion: Revenge of the Nerds! hoo hoo hoo hoooooo

Plus, my fascination with Gilmore Girls continues. I even watched it over the American Idol finale, although I know the country girl won. I personally thought the ending to AI3 with Fantasia was the best ending:

'Cause I waited all my life; for this moment to arrive...

Back To Work

Busy at work. Cut my middle finger. Hurts. Gotta start hitting the gym hardcore again. Found pics of me on the net from the marathon. Big belly. Yikes. Eating disorder it is.

2-4

So I spent the long weekend camping at Ahmic Lake with Sharon and her classmates. Unlike last year where it was a veritable downpour rainfest, this year was nice and sunny (with the exception of a tad bit of spitting the last night). I even got tanned (argh). I would like to think that every camping trip gets easier in terms of what to pack and what to bring. I'm almost becoming a seasoned camper. Yeah, an oragano camper.

Friday: got everything ready, played poker at BJ's house with the friends, woke up three and a half hours later to...

Saturday: woke up at 6am, left by 645am, got to Sharon's, went to Tim Horton's for an everything bagel garden sandwich, stopped in Barrie for last minute food (cold cuts, cheese and bread), got to Ahmic Lake, met Derek, Jen E., Jen T., Greg, Mike and some of his friends, set up the tent, ate cold cuts for lunch, sat, read, relaxed, got tanned, made pasta for dinner, got complimented on my pasta, sat around a campfire briefly, took a shower, played a little poker, went to bed and then it was...

Sunday: had a fabulous sleep in my new sleeping bag, made pancakes and sausages for breakfast, read, relaxed, got tanned, cooked hash brown, ground beef and eggs for lunch, read, relaxed, got tanned, went for a walk with Sharon, read, relaxed, got tanned, made salisbury steak and hashbrowns for dinner, played some poker, sat around a campfire briefly, remineced (sp.?) with Sharon at how our first camping trip together as a couple was at the same place, took a shower, slept and then it was...

Today: had another fabulous sleep, woke up, packed everything up, went to breakfast at the Swiss Restaurant on site, had pickeral, eggs and hash browns and toast and one of Sharon's pancakes, left, went to Highway 9 to get to Caledon, pretended I was a rally car driver, got more stone chips on my car, went to Royal Ambassador Banquet Hall to show Sharon you know, dropped Sharon home, went to Mike's briefly to hear about his "exciting news", got home, unpacked, washed mine and my Dad's car, went inside, put my pillows in the wash, watched some TV, ate, and then WHEW. Here I am.

I seriously have to start feeling less obligated to do this blog that no one really reads. I'm yet to go back on a random date and say, "oh yeah! that's what happened!" But then what was once nothing but an experiment has turned out to be quite the interesting project. I just have this bad feeling that one day this website will just shut down and thus all the hours I have spent writing this. Oh well, nothing in life is permanent...

Kambing!

Gone for the weekend with Sharon and classmates to Ahmic Lake. Should be fun, just hope I don't get bored. Guess I'll bring a book. Roughing it two whole days without the Internet? Yikes damn.

Getting Ready

For all sorts of things.

Work: finishing up for my trip.

This Weekend: bought a new sleeping bag today from MEC.

Philippines: got an e-mail from my aunt pretty much planning out part of my trip, and getting all my shopping out of the way. Excited am I? Getting there quite faster than I thought.

* * *

Went to Originals today for some good ol' fashioned wings. Now I remember why I stopped going there for a while. Heart attack anyone?

Not Quite Chipotles

As in the Mexican restaurant in Chicago, but I had Chorizo's today in Clarkson Village. The burrito and chips I had were good, but it wasn't as big as Chipotle's and the chips weren't as good. It was good, regardless and it satisfied my Mexican cravings.

Went to Clarkson Waste Water Treatment Plant today on a tour. Same sort of deal as my Dad works. I was imagining what it would be like to work at one of them. I would like to! Then again, everyone wants to be something they are not. I'm happy as a Public Health Inspector -- right now.

Can't believe I got into Gilmore Girls. All because I have a crush on Rory. Is this going to be another DVD purchase thing? Nah...it's too girly. I'd rather just watch reruns. For now. I did watch the season finale today, and despite all the talking talking talking (sorta reminds me of my girlfriend. Wait...no wonder I like too then), it was pretty okay.

I'm A Mentor!

For the students that are in the office now. If that doesn't make you feel old, I don't know what will. It's alright though, as it was a rather lackidasical day.

Speaking of growing old, I had a rather mature talk with my girlfriend today. Rather, make that it was a mature topic, but I responded immaturely. No real surprise there, as supressing my emotions has always been hard for me. I better try harder.

One Last Thing

The official results of the marathon are in. Click on the pic to find yours truly highlighted for your convenience:

Or you can squint really, really hard

52 minutes and 12 seconds. Is that as good as it will get? Nope...I am now aiming to break the 50 minute mark like Arvin did (he did it in 49 minutes. Will the competition between us never end?). The only problem is: when? Perhaps this fall, after my Philippines trip. We'll see. Regardless, this whole event has been quite the experience for me and fun. I never thought I could run that far that fast, but am happy I did. Now then, where's my bike?

Went for a one hour massage today, where she absolutely killed my legs (that's a good thing, apparently). I'm lucky to have benefits from work. Then I went home and had a bath. That's right, a bath. First time in a long, long time. Might as well go all the way with this health/pampering myself thing.

Last episode of Everybody Loves Raymond was on tonight. It will live on forever in syndication. It got me thinking though: if there were 209 episodes, why does it seem that all the reruns are the same 10 shown over and over? Then it occurred to me: I watch too much TV.

Officially Proved To Myself!

I am now devirginized when it comes to an officially sanctioned race. I felt like this guy, except it wasn't a marathon or a half-marathon, it was cold and raining, I am not white, and I didn't end off like this (but I certainly felt like it):

Then I did the VECTOR! cereal pose

I don't have my official time, but I think I finished in the 52-53 minutes mark. Of course now looking back on it I think I should've done better, but I did prove to myself that a)I can do this long distance running thing; and, b)that I could finish 10km in under an hour. I can't wait till the web results are posted.

Brief, chronological events of race day:

-woke up excited and nervous at the same time

-went to the YMCA to pick up our race kit which included the bib with my number (7611), shirt, timing chip. There was a running expo there, so I also got PowerBar PowerGel and a waist pocket holder thing, great for when I jog and when I go to the Philippines

-ate at Pita Factory for lunch

-went home to rest, watched Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. I didn't realize that the Indy movies were funny, but then again I haven't watched them since I was 5

-couldn't take a nap because I was too nervous

-Sharon and Anne came over to pick us up

-went to starting line. The rain was coming down pretty hard. I was happy because it wasn't hot and humid

-Arvin and I started somewhere in the middle. The start of the race takes a lot of energy because I had to dodge a couple of people. Within 2 minutes, Arvin and I are split up, and I won't see him till we're at the end of the race

-took part in getting water from spectators. Choked on water. Threw cup on ground like I was a real runner

-at about Kilometer 8, an old couple were screaming names. They screamed mine when I pointed to my bib and I raised my hands victoriously. I soon realized that I was getting tired after that

-approaching finish line, I couldn't find Sharon and Anne so Sharon could take my picture. Ah well, so I sprinted to the finish mat

-got a medal, disposable blanket because I was drenched and shivering. Had some Gatorade, a banana and bagel. Found out, to no surprise, that Arvin beat me. Good for him

-went to the Bell Mobility tent and used the courtesy phone to call Sharon. Turns out she wasn't at the finish line when we got there she wasn't there yet. Something about me giving her wrong directions to get to the shuttle bus (oops!)

-went home and took a hot shower. Went to Turtle Jacks with Arvin, Sharon, Anne, Ian and Monley and gorged on Ribs and Wings for my "celebration dinner"

-went to Dr. Sy's and hung out a bit

-got home, my contacts are as dry as heck, I have to use the washroom, but still happy and content to end off my day like this

There's always next year to beat my time this year. We'll see. We'll see.

And Today's The Day

What I've been looking forward to/am nervous about/have been training for for the past couple months. The Mississauga Marathon 10km run. I am confident I can do it, but it just seems very nerve wracking. I'm getting deflowered into the world of "competitive racing." Yikes.

That's me, the 15th one to the left in the 34th row

Here goes nothing. Here goes everything.

Kalbo Agen

For the race in two days. But then it's supposed to be cold and raining, so really I didn't have to do it. But whatever, my head is gonna be cool this summer.

Getting nervous for some reason about this race. Hope my heart pumps as well as it's pumping now.

I don't really like my Doctor for some reason. I'll think about changing her perhaps.

A Great Thing Happened

I lost all the money I won last night! That is, I lost it at Fallsview Casino. Why does that statement sound insane? Well, here's the thing: it left me with such a crappy feeling, that my "cravings" to go to the Casino are no more. It's easy to win money you never had just as it's easy to lose money you never had. Heck, it's even easier to lose money you do have. So, with that said, I have finally come to my senses and am now off this kick of wanting to do something I wouldn't normally do. I hope. The quesy feeling is still with me, though, and I prolly won't forget it.

I had a pretty good 52 minute 10km run today. Looks like I'll be set for Saturday. I hope. I really, really hope. The runner's high afterwards made losing that money feel like I spent it for that high. Except I can get it for free. Okay, so looks like I won't be going to the Casino for a long time then!

Woah

So I went to Casinorama today with Ken, Anne and her Mom. I won! Tripled my money, in fact playing Blackjack. I was even "honest guy" when the dealer paid me too much because he was new and rather nervous and an idiot. Now then, let's not repeat what happened last time and lose all the money (especially considering I'm going to Niagara tomorrow with Ken). Hey, it's just a hobby for now. Like all my phases, this too shall pass.

Orlando Bloom As Aragorn?

So I watched Kingdom of Heaven with Sharon (yeah, I know, Sharon out on a Monday night! Score!). It was actually a not bad movie, some pretty good action scenes. Some thoughts:

-Orlando Bloom, who was Legolas, looked like Aragorn. I kept waiting for him to say, "For Frodo!" It didn't happen

-when the King of Jerusalem's iron mask was uncovered, I thought Leonardo DiCaprio would pop out

-my favorite line of the movie, courtesy of the shaggly beard man: "I am what I am because someone needs to be"

-I didn't realize (Sir) Ian McKellen was in the movie till I saw the credits. Then again, I did notice that he was a rather gay character/priest in the movie before I actually knew it was him

-ditto Jeremy Irons. Had I known, I would've expected him to be having sex with some young girl

-Queen Amadala had a breakdown at the end of the movie. She looked like G.I. Jane

-everytime I watch a movie of historical significance, I want to learn more about that era. But then when I leave the theatre, so does the desire. I'll just wait for Sharon to give me the Coles Notes version of it

So I wanted to sleep early today because I felt so sleepy all day. But then I come home and the Phoenix Suns/Dallas Mavs game is on. Great. Looks like I'll be tired tomorrow again.

Crappy, Crappy, Crappy, Crappy, Crappy Run

With less than a week before my race, something horrific (to me, anyway) happened: I couldn't finish the route. I was devoid of energy, my feet felt like mush, and my mental strength was somewhere else. Damn. Damn. This can't happen now. I blame it on not feeling too well, eating a lot the past couple of days, not sleeping/resting enough, and working and lifting a lot of garbage from the side of the house. Whatever the case, hopefully this gives me motivation the next time I go running; this crappy feeling I'm having right now. That and seeing Arvin whizzing by me while running.

* * *

Well, with that off my chest, it was a good family day today. Happy Mama's Day to my Mom; I gave her Grubin and Booble CDs which she liked. Also a Happy 29th Anniversary to my folks; me and my brothers got them a DVD/VCR player. We ate at a Korean BBQ place, which wasn't the best but I of course ended up eating too much. Which might partly explain the above. Damn.

Busy Saturday As Usual

-Went to Square One with Riz. Got Anniversary and Mother's Day gifts.

-Actually went to Church. Didn't really pay attention, as usual. Sigh.

-Went to Sharon's for her family party. Watched "The Bourne Identity" and "The Bourne Supremacy" and ate way too much.

-Went to AMC theatres to wait for Mike, Arvin and Jeff to get out because it's Mike's (and BJ's) birthday. Ended up sitting there, waiting for the call they said they were gonna give me, didn't get it, and when I finally got a hold of them, they were already going to Sizzling Jacks and I don't think they though. Nice. Now I feel like I'm in grade 9 again, like I'm being ditched. So fittingly, I responded by saying tersely, "I'm going home." Bleh, whatever. I think I'm just tired.

Would've Been A Nice Day For A Bike Ride

But then I heard the heartbreaking news that my bike will not be ready for another two months. July 15th, that is. I guess it's a good thing that I won't be here for much of June, so the anticipation will be lessened.

Had lunch at O Tabico's. O fabulous as usual.

Washed and vacuumed my car today. I forgot what it looks like when it's cleaned. It's supposed to rain tomorrow, so I guess she's staying in the garage. Would've been nice if I had a bike to ride around in the meantime...yeesh. Ah well.

Even If I Don't Finish The Actual One

At least I finished the course in under one hour today, thereby knowing I can actually finish the course. I am talking about my 10km run, of course. Arvin beat me, but I have an excuse of not a lot of sleep/working out this morning. I love the runner's high. It makes me horny. Okay, more than you needed to know, but still, the hormones are a pumpin' when my heart goes a jumpin'.

This week at work has been long and drawn out. I have to find things to do, as my list is almost complete. At least I was able to buy my self-inflating air mattress today for my camping trip in a couple of weeks. It's all about technology baby! Now then, I just have to get new sleeping bag, and I'm all set for this year's camping trips.

It's Official!

I am not going to be a Burley man. Just imagine the bike below except in black:

Sand Point!

I just ordered it and it should be in in about a week. My girlfriend thinks I'm not going to use it a lot. Oh, how I am wanting to prove her wrong. Sorry baby, I am going to won. Be on the lookout for my own pics.

Also went to the massage therapist today, and she is prolly the best one I've been too. Aside from the fact that I am really sore, she did the kind of massage I like. No, not that kind of massage, but a nice deep massage. No, not that kind of deep. Yeesh. I'm really gonna need that massage after my race which is in...two weekends? Ohoh, I might be in trouble. But whatever, I got my Burley!

Nother Long Day

Partly because I don't have much to do right now at work. I shouldn't complain because damn if I want a lot of work.

Got my tax return; I was excited until I realized that it was the wrong one (that is, my Uncle screwed up and had to adjust my return thus affecting my actual income tax credit. Damn. I think my Uncle is getting old; I better find a new one or do it myself. We'll see next year). Looks like the recumbent has to wait a bit longer.

The marathon is soon, and what do I do instead of run? Workout. I'm frikin' sore and I'm obviously going about this whole marathon thing wrong. You can do it Yayson, you can do it (what a pathetic self-motivational chant).

And Back To It

The gym, that is. I don't know how long it's been, but it feels pretty good to go back. I'm gonna be soreasaurus tomorrow.

I really have to be more efficient at work. I've become one of "those." Ohoh.

Good Times, Good Times

Last night at Nina's and Anne's party at D. Martini's. People always think I'm missing out when I don't drink alcohol, but really, I don't. I like watching my friends get all drunk and besides, my clubbing experience is like 54267 times better now that I go there with my (sexy) girlfriend. Some highlights:

-Nina getting crazy mad over the album Sharon made her. It wouldn't have been as good a gift if she wasn't mad

-Mike grabbing the boobs of our waitress

-Arvin picking up guys

-the waitress spilling three drinks on BJ

-watching Mike, Arvin and BJ getting really shitfaced

-watching Jeff make a grand entrance with his broken leg and dancing and macking on Allison

-giving the fingers to Mike to do it to Anne's manicurist

-dancing with my girl (despite her objections)

-making fun of Jeff being jealous that Mike grinded with Allison

All in all, a good night with the exception of it being really hot and steamy (and not the good hot and steamy).

* * *

Then today a still-drunk Mike calls at 945am (after going to bed at 430am). He said "let's go to Kelsey's for lunch." So him, myself, Nina, Liz, Anne, Jeff and Arvin went (Mike even called BJ although BJ was prolly still hungover and plus he was working night shift tonight. Everyone totally imagined a cranky BJ. And he wonders why people think he's sungit...lol).

So there was a method to Mikes madness as he ended up treating everyone for his birthday. Score! Holee Carlsburg Years.

Then we went to Square One. I bought two books on Poker and How to Win at the Casino (seriously, I'm not addicted). Oh, and two words are now in the vocabulary amongst my friends: October 2007.

Yikes!

Breathe A Sigh Of Relief

That's how I felt when my keys were found by a neighbour and returned to me today. Thank God! (Speaking of which, I haven't been a good Catholic lately. I should be at Church right now, but I am in a funk and crisis right now. Sigh.)

Also went to the condo appointment with Sharon. Uh, yeah, she don't want a small place. Which makes me think: why bother having any money anyway? It is a nice place, and Anne did get one this morning. Alas, I think a townhouse is what she has in mind.

Went to Square One with Anne to buy some things. Went to Kernels to get my Cheesy Dill, and saw Charmaine who "hooked us up." She even stamped my card a couple more times! Score!

What is going on in my head? Snap out of it boy

I Tend To Screw Things Up

I really need a reassessment. Gotta stop and realize.

Lost my keys. I am almost absolutely devistated. Not only my keys, but my knife and most importantly my keychains. Another reminder that nothing in life is permanent and that even I am prone to losing things (despite the fact I am convinced I don't lose anything).

Have and appointment tomorrow with Solstice. Wish I had more money to get a bigger house.

Sigh.

Cin Sity

So I watched a burned, pirated, ai matey DVD of Sin City today. The movie was interesting, but while watching it, I realized something: I seem to have acquired a celebrity crush. Now most people would think it's Jessica Alba (and she is hot in the movie), but nope, it's on that Gilmore Girl. But before I announced it to anyone, I made sure she was legal (born in 1982; hey, just covering my bases). I think it first started when I watched Bride and Prejudice, and not surprisingly all those times I watched the show with Sharon. Well, I look forward to watching it now, again.

Oh Rory, You Make My Heart Go Sorey

Yeah, hurtful, hurtful day today on my back, knees and legs. I also went to David's and Maria's wedding shower today...that Mississauga bunch are interesting people. Would I be joining them soon? Hmmmmm...

Who Needs Knees?

One and a half hours of squash. 10km run. How else would my body, particularly my legs, feel like? I'm walking like this:

I'm wearing contacts

Seriously, who needs knees? I can waddle and still look cool. I have to remember that I'm not that much of an athlete. Yargh.

Mmmmmmmmmm Back

Internet is back, and now I'm gonna be wack. Went for wings in Oakville with Tony, Lil' Mikey and Kathie Brown at a place called The Firehall. Goodgawshallmitey...damn good wings. Perhaps even the best wings I've ever eaten. It looked sort of like this, but not really because they were about 3.53215X better:

Smack Smack Drool Drool

I mustn't do this gorging thing because hello Jason, 10km run? Hello? McFly?!?

Being Without Internet Access

And it continues. Now I am posting from my work computer. This whole without internet thing at home just reminds me of when I move into my own place, it's gonna be headache.

Went to Angel's pool party last night; yay wave pool. I also went running and rolled the ankle. Good thing I'm an "athlete" as my ankle is feeling better today. Riiiight.

Computer Offline

Thus I am typing this from Jeff's computer. I never realized how hooked I was on the internet; one day off and my routine goes. Yikes, I can only think about what will happen when I go to the Philippines.

Had the financial investing seminar today with my cousin Mike. Hope everyone learned a little something.

I love my girlfriend, I wish she can always be happy. Don't worry baby, one of these days.

Pick A Pic, Any Pic

And the lucky pic today is...

J. (& S.) Crew

My girlfriend and I at BJ's cottage with our oars for our crew boat (that conveniently deflates).

Ran 10km last night with Arvin, Ian and Mike. Let me rephrase that: it started out with us four, then became Arvin and Me, then eventually just me. Does that mean I won? Yehey. Umm, but I have to remember that I have to actually take part in the actual race. Yikes.

Went to Guelph today for a seminar. It was way, way over any PHI's head. Thus, my workmates and I left a bit early. Then Sharon and I spent "QT" together. As usual, I lubhur. Then we met Jen E, Greg, Jody and Kevin. Very funny people. God bless that Newfie.

The Roller Coaster

That is what my emotions are calling the Casino from now on. The joy of winning, the agony of defeat (yikes, I'm talking in cliches like Anne now. I think I've been spending way too much time with her). But anywho, I try to rationalize it: Why be upset when the money you lost was the money you won? And you did try and won at Caribbean Stud, thus ending the two day Casino trip with a net profit of $15.

Not as exciting though when you consider I was up double what I won last night (in other words, I was up $170). See, I would have stopped, but I was to meet them at 7:00pm and by the time I was up, it was only 5:30pm. What was I to do for the next hour and a half? Hmmm...well, I could have done nothing. But, the point is, I was thinking it was money that I didn't really deserve anyway.

I don't like this gambling thing. I shouldn't do it. I have other responsibilities. And it's not money I feel I earned (Devil money?). Oh, and my heart can't take it. Fun then, it will only be for fun. So, logically, I will be at the Casino again until I really lose. Argh, I am a complex person.

I did go to Buffalo today, and had these famous wings. They weren't bad, but they aren't Originals. Wings again tomorrow with the work crew in Oakville. Oh boy, I don't think my heart can take that either.

Free Money, Loss Of Identity

I used to always think that I would never be a gambler, a person addicted to games where money is easily thrown around. I always thought that money is too valuable to let go freely. I always thought that it was a waste of money.

But then recently I was thinking to myself: be something you're not, at least try it. So instead of taking up cocaine or marijuana or alcohol or sexcapades, I decided to try gambling. I set an amount I thought I was going to lose, and once lost, I would not try it again as I would see it's an enormous waste of money. But then a funny thing happened as I went today (yes, it's a Tuesday, and I thought that it would be a cheap night and a good day to go considering I don't have work tomorrow)...

I won.

In fact, I doubled the amount of money I set aside plus another $15. Yikes. My plan backfired.

Well, I don't think I'm gonna be addicted because I have too much other responsibilities. Plus, as Sharon says, "she'll knock it out of me" if I get addicted.

So yeah, I never thought I would gamble, but it's fun. Especially when you first get deflowered at the Blackjack table. Oh boy, and did I look like a rookie; doubling down when I didn't have to and not splitting when I should've. But whatever, I won and the money I won is the money I'm gonna spend tomorrow. Yes, I am going back tomorrow, but only because I was already gonna go to Buffalo with Anne and her Mother.

Here's to breaking even...

What Do You Get When You Combine Two Disco Songs Together?

The Kung Fu Hustle!

This is perhaps one of the best movies I've seen in a long, long time, if not ever. A Comedy? Yep. Action? Yep. Synchronized Dancing? Yep. Fairies? Yep. It's got it all, even a cute mute. Looks like I'm gonna have to buy this one for my DVD collection.

That's me, the fifth one to the left in the centre...no, not the one with the hat, the other guy

Got my car done with the sound proofing and everything. It may be just my imagination, but my bass is sounding a whole lot better and tighter. Not to mention the rustproofing abilities of the sound deadner in addition to the no cost to it; score!

Went for water well inspections today with Alexia. Saw a part of Brampton which doesn't feel like Brampton. Almost like an Old Meadowvale Village in Mississauga before all the development. Helped an old woman named Betty with her well. She called me her "Filipino Boy." I hope this means I get left in the will now.

Went for a good run, with the Burnhamthorpe to 10 to 5 to Mavis route. Al, Nina's brother, caught me screaming to myself. Surprisingly, though, the run was much easier than I thought. Looks like I'm shaping up for the 10K. Remember, round is still a shape. Good thing I went for a run too, especially with all the shit I ate today from Crawford's Bakery, like that yummy peanut butter and chocolate chip filled cookie, which has the consistency and feel of cookie dough, but not the rawness taste of it. I'll have to take Sharon there one time.

A Yearly Cycle

I can fit my car in my garage again, after cleaning it out. Eventually, though, it is gonna become full and I won't be able to fit it in there again. Then next year I'm gonna clean it out again so it will fit. Lather, Rinse, Repeat. Oh well, at least it's clean for now.

Speaking of my car, the appointment/recall is scheduled for tomorrow morning. Should be interesting.

Went for cheap Vietnamese subs and patties with Jeps today. Must suck for him to be pee-lie. I wouldn't want to be.

Why Does Indian Food Make Me Nauseous?

Perhaps because the last time I ate it I barfed. Even though it may have not been the culprit to my sickness, you always associate the last thing you ate with the cause of what made you sick. No wonder whenever I do Indian restaurant inspections it doesn't look appetizing to me. Where did this thought come from? I went to The Host Indian Restaurant with Sharon, her parents and her Grandfather. I did eat the food though, but it wasn't enjoyable as it would have been, say, if I didn't get sick before.

Before that, I went to the new Yorkdale Mall with Nina to get this magical cheese knife for my cousin Che. After 30 minutes, I finally found the frikin' thing. The mall looked nice, I guess, but still overpriced. Arvin thought the mall looked absolutely great, but I reminded him that the majority of shoppers there dress up just to go to the mall, so it looks like only beautiful people shop there. Oh, and gay people. I also bought what I always have to buy when I'm there: a cheese stick from Michel Baguette. I also got Kernel's Cheesy Dill Popcorn. Abso-frikin'-lutely great popcorn.

Speaking of Nina, she told me that her and Anne's parents think it's weird that I'm hanging around them so much lately and not Sharon. Yikes. I had a feeling it would come to that. Okay, that's it.

After The Host, Sharon and I went to Tito Gene's and Tita Day's 30th Wedding Anniversay party. We did a little ballroom dancing (emphasis on "little" as we did hardly any of it right). I really wanna take it, I think I enjoy it a lot. Oh, and I made a bad joke that we got engaged, and all my family thought it was true. My goodness.

My Mom ordered an ube cake for the party. On the cake read: "Happy 30th Wedding A. Gene & Inday." At what point did the cakemaker think they weren't gonna have enough room to spell "Anniversary"? Was it after the A? That was perhaps the worst example of an abbreviation I have seen. Can't wait to have a "Happy 30th B. Jason!" cake.

Biz-Ay Day

Meeting in the morning with Bosses. As usual, nothing accomplished. I am rudely finding out how retarded Government is. Too much bureaucracy, not enough things getting done. I'm just lucky I have great workmates. But whatever, I shouldn't complain as it's giving me a paycheque. Bleh.

So I paid for my ticket. June 8-28. Looks like I'll be the FOB during that time. Yikes.

Went to S1 with Sharon, Gil, Marie and Con to look for a gift for Che's shower. Couldn't find it, and might have to go to Yorkdale for it. Hey, it gives an excuse to go there.

Went to Tita Beck's place for her birthday. They always have parties, and as Sharon says, "It's a little overwhelming. I'm not used to it." She makes me laugh...just wait till we get married! Poker as usual. Did not have any hands at all. Hope my luck will change when I go to the Casino.

Screw you Vince, where was that passion when you were in Toronto? But whatever, Toronto fans are too babyish sometimes. And Vince Carter can still be the man.

Either My Jaw Is Getting Stronger Or Jawbreakers Just Ain't What They Used To Be

So I had a package of Gobstoppers today. First time in a long, long time (think: over 15 years). When I was younger, I remember it lasting forever and being very marble-like in it's consistency.

Then I had these today:

Can't stop the Gob. Actually, you can now.

The start was the same. But then I tried to do something: bite hard. Surprisingly, my teeth went through it easily. I'm guessing because I got the chewy centre one.

Regardless though, it was good times. Candy is fun when you're in the mood.

Have a meeting tomorrow with Big Boss and Boss. Jeez, what a tangle web I weave, when I first...well, complain a lot..

Running today for 18 laps. Should've done more. 30 days left!

An Impromptu Ode To Pad Thai

Oh how I love thee,

You really fill me.

When I am hungry,

The thought of you makes me go heehee.

I crave you at least once a week,

I don't eat you because you're sheik,

I don't care if you make me reek,

When you're being cooked I want to peek.

So what went wrong?

What happened to that song?

That version I had of you today,

The one that didn't make me go "yay",

Tasted all burnt and yucky,

It made my mood go all mucky.

This is the way Pad Thai is supposed to look:

Smack Smack Drool Drool

Instead I had a version where the cook...

sucked.

Sigh.

And yet, I go on, dreaming of a version that will make me go me-oh-my.

My Pad Thai.

My Pad Thai.

Gold Bond Is Gold

So after my whole chafing incident yesterday, and still hurting today, I finally decided to go for the gold:

The Bond Is Gold

This stuff really works! After the first application, it really soothed me. I want to own stocks in this company. Man, I really am old and my body is breaking down. Yikes.

Long day at work today doing HACCP's, and even longer tomorrow. I love my job. No, really.

Again With The Chafing Thighs

So I go running with a new record: 20 laps around the FMG track. Only problem is that by lap 16 my thighs were seriously chafing. Even Ian saw me kept grabbing my crotch. I thought I needed a bikini wax, but upon further inspection, it's just my fat thighs. Sigh. Sighs with the thighs. I think I have to invest in boxer-briefs or bicycle shorts.

$$$Cha-Ching!!!$$$

So I got a cheque in the mail today from my car insurance company because they screwed up somehow. I was so worried because when I saw the envelope I thought it was one of those "you have to pay even more now because..." letters. But nope, score Jason. Casino money! (Not really, but I am very determined to at least play Blackjack or Casino War when I take my day off on Wednesday, April 20, 2005. Remember that day because that's the day I get rich; or most likely not. Hey, I need to get this out of my system)

Still dreaming of the recumbent, I am growing impatient with my tax return. I shouldn't complain, though, for my Tito Cesar is doing it for free after all. But still, with the bike and the Philippines trip coming up, talk about an expensive summer. Luckily I will pay off my car by July (fingers crossing fingers crossing)

Tension Whore

So I went with Sharon to Hamilton to drop off some stuff for Debbie. Debbie told me that I'm an attention whore (apparently not tension whore). Now, I may be one, and my friends often try to tell me I'm one, but when another person tells me I'm one, I get offended. Go figure. Besides, I don't go looking for attention, attention goes looking for me. I swear!

Then I went to Sharon's and had my first barbeque hamburger of the year. It's gonna be a yummy summer.

Looking at all those people biking today on this beautiful day made me even more comitted to buying a recumbent bike. In addition to that, I would love to have a motorcycle, seeing all those people taking their bikes out. Apparently I want to maim myself.

Got home and went for a jog around the FMG track. Whereas last summer I was huffing and puffing doing 8 laps, this year I'm already up to 12. Yee-uh! Although jogging directly in the sunlight without sunglasses hurts. Ow, my retinas.

Went to Ken's to shave my hair. Now I have to pluck my moustache and beard, as Sharon says I look like a Dirty Chinese guy with it.

Some words of advice from my Dad today: "Don't gamble. You shouldn't gamble at casinos. You should drink instead. If you drink a lot, you get drunk, and that's the end of that. If you gamble, you can find yourself losing $10,000 because you can't stop like drinking and then you're addicted." Thanks Dad!

Another Long Saturday

-woke up early in the morning, hung out with Sharon for a couple hours, had a little drama with her, had lunch with her

-went to Downtown Toronto with Nina to go to Urbane Cycles. Saw some recumbents there, and I am at 99.9999% certainty that I am going to get one. I am leaning towards the Burley Sand Point, which I can order from MBS Tandems. Also met up with Anne Marie. Found a new place to park for relatively cheap; under the Chapters on Richmond and John ($6). Had part of Nina's crepe filled with Nutella and Bananas. Decided I want to make some good crepes at home

-got home, picked up BJ, and went to Casino Rama to watch the Boyz II Men concert. Make that Boyz II Fat Men. Holy crap they got fat, especially Wanya. The whole show all I kept thinking was how they got fat. Even the skinny guy got fatter. The cripple wasn't there. They sang the classics and some retro songs (ex. God Bless You, by The Stylistics). I liked the retro songs especially. All in all, not that bad of a performance, but keep in mind this is my first official concert. And no, seriously, they got fat.

-played some Video Poker. I won $2 profit from spending $5, but then I ended up losing it then losing another $5. My plan was to play Black Jack or Sic Bo, but the minimum at the Black Jack table was $25, and $10 at the Sic Bo table. Too rich for my blood. If I am going to play, it's gotta be $5 tables

-ate Chinese Food there courtesy of Anne's Dad. He must have some serious points in order to pay for 7 people for about $15

-drove home and had an interesting talk with Anne, Nina and BJ

Long day, I should sleep. Okay, I will.

Bent On Getting A 'Bent

So I test rode a recumbent today, and it was quite the experience. Feather-touch steering, wobbly riding, at first, but then I got used to it. I am never going to ride a "normal" bike again. The lady, Brenda, at MBS Tandems (a bike store out of her garage in Meadowvale) let me test out the Bike-E, and then was offering to sell it to me for $1000. I thought about it, but then I figured I wanted this one instead:

This should raise my coolness factor by at least 53.982

A Burley Sand Point. $934. Can't wait for my tax return...then I'll contemplate it even more.

Bah-Loot

Damn this blogger. It kept screwing up my blog for this particular post about balut and my TV. Ask me for the story if you want to hear it. Here are the pictures I would've used:

Cheesecake Baker

According to my workmates, my cheesecake was very good. I'll take the compliment. I wish I made the one for Sharon as good as this one...next time baby.

"W.O.D." at work today. Looks like the next two weeks though are going to be crazy though with HACCP audits and all. Damn good lunch with Tony, who said, "I wish I understood what females think." I couldn't stop laughing because he said it with such conviction. I hope my relationship doesn't end up like that when I'm married. Then again, I don't understand what females think right now.

Called Toyota to find out how much I owe for my car still. As of today, $9090.91. Once that's all done and paid for (hopefully soon), then I'll know where the hell my money went. Yikes.

I wanted to go to the Casino today for some reason, but I ended up with a video poker game I can hook up directly to my TV I borrowed from Melodie. Hey, she's worse than I am when it comes to gambling (then again, a lot of people are considering I'm not what you call the most riskiest of bettors).

Tomorrow should be a more productive day.

Irritating Day

Quick overview:

-woke up with my back hurting due to yesterday's hell of a time with those damn wheels. Woke up irritated.

-brought my car in the morning, expecting to take the shuttle at 800am to make my 900am meeting. Left at 830am, got there just at 900am. Irritated at Erin Park Toyota.

-meeting was long and drawn out, as usual. Too many people say things just to hear themselves talk. Irritated at workmates who don't shut up.

-shuttle was supposed to take me back to Toyota at 1215pm. Called at 1225pm, only to find out it would take another hour for them to pick me up. Swore at them, then had Walter drive me to the dealership. Quite irritated at Erin Park Toyota.

-noticed my wheels were put in the wrong position I requested them to put it in. Super irritated at Erin Park Toyota.

-got a report on my desk about insects being sold at Mac's Milk. Packaged insects. I can't believe some inspectors take down this frivolous information. Quite irritated at workmates who make my work hard.

-wrote an e-mail to Erin Park Toyota expressing my displeasure at the service today. Got a response back that said the shuttle service is a courtesy, and that they'll fix my tires for free. As if they are not the ones who screwed it up in the first place. So irritated at Erin Park Toyota that I plan tol never go back there for service.

-got home and decided to jog. I was happy that I jogged for about 1 hour straight. Irritated, however, that my fat thighs rub each other while I run and causes chafing. Look below for an image of what chafing looks like, but imagine it on my inner thighs (actually, don't imagine that for your sake). Literally irritated.

Unless you think this is sexy, then this is a realistic image of myself and not Adam

-Baked a cheesecake for Kiran's birfday. Irritated that it didn't bake right in the oven.

-I wasn't irritated when I talked to Sharon. So let's call it an irritating day but a much better evening.

39 Days till the Marathon. Yikes.