Saturday, April 26, 2003
Just when I decided I'd give law school a chance, I find out the Ateneo LAE applications for SY 2004 are through. According to the personnel, they'll be giving entrance exams only until April--not May like what I used to believe. Waaah.
Oh well, there is still that other school in Diliman, hehe. Their exam is slated third week of November.
posted by melich on 05:30
Friday, April 25, 2003
You have to hear this guy sing. They say he's Norah Jones' male counterpart. Plus he's not too bad to look at too. As one girl puts it, he's "Nakaka-laglag panty."
posted by melich on 11:23
Thanks for the advice, Gracie. I sort of have an idea now how to solve the dilemma.
Happy birthday, Imo!
posted by melich on 11:12
Practicum dilemma
For several hours, I was breathing easily. The GMA internship application was a disaster, but Nikki solved our dilemma this afternoon and things finally looked perfect regarding the practicum issue. But a phone call about the long-forgotten Cosmo internship application dispelled my peace.
Like Nik, I was disillusioned about having my practicum at GMA, no thanks to that HR bitch who's probably an underling's underling. I'd narrate what happened, but it doesn't matter anymore. I'm just glad I never have to see that sour face again.
Anyhoo, after all the hullabaloo Nikki came up with a brilliant idea to contact Minet, I-Witness producer and her GMA contact, to ask if we could simply become unofficial interns of I-Witness for a week. She said yes, which leaves us free to intern at Ideal Minds (which won't be a problem since Nikki has a contact there), the prod company that handles Singles, Misadventures of Maverick and Ariel, and On-Air. Among the three shows, we preferred On-Air.
I liked the idea of interning at Ideal Minds better because 1) it's a small company so we'd more likely have hands-on training and be part of the brainstorming process there than at the big honchos like ABS-CBN whose interns usually transform into utusans (or so they say) 2) they're not afraid to experiment on unorthodox techniques/format because they can afford to, unlike GMA and ABS-CBN who usually stick to tried-and-tested formulas because they are slaves of ratings 3) no eche-bureche requirements 4) Niknik and Cliff would be there, and it would be a blast to work with them. Actually, we planned on taking our practicum together months back.
So as I was saying, everything was perfectly mapped out until I received a surprise call from Cosmo a while ago. I remembered suddenly that I asked Zo late March if I could intern there, and gave her my resume along with Nikki's saying we're interested. The plan is, we finish GMA early then we go to Cosmo for a second internship. But the Cosmo internship was pushed at the back since the GMA practicum was not yet fixed, and eventually I forgot about it. Until that call a while ago regarding an interview next week.
I wanted to have my internship at a production house because it's something new to me. Besides, I took a class in prod last sem and found it v. interesting... definitely left me wanting for more. I was also looking forward to working for On-Air because I like the show... it's funny (mainly because it's not trying hard) and the concept is fresh. And I've always been in publications so applying in a publication company for my internship would be kind of redundant, I think.
On the other hand, Zo tells me that working in a monthly magazine is a lot different from school publications and even newspapers. And I like Cosmo, it's one of the few mags I read in an almost regular basis...interning there sounds like a lot of fun too. Also, I think having my internship at a publishing house would help a lot in retaining my journ scholarship next year.
I want to take both Ideal Minds and Cosmo internship, but c'mon it's the end of April already so I can't do both. Or can I? That, I'll try to find out.
posted by melich on 05:51
Wednesday, April 23, 2003
Oops correction. Sha just told me the barkada's leaving on Friday pa.
posted by melich on 05:42
Wah, my barkada's leaving for Ilocos tomorrow and I won't be able to go with them because of org duties, practicum stuff and such. I really, really wanna go out-of-town with you guys this summer!
Ann and Rom are in Bora naman, staying at their friend's resort (meaning, they get to stay there for a long time because their lodging is free). I'm so jealous! As they say, even if you're not a beach person, places like Boracay will transform you otherwise. I'm craving to smell the salty air... to gaze at soothing aquamarine waters... and to feel powdery white sand between my toes whenever I fancy.
Yes Mark, I miss Palawan too.
***
Nikki was at my place until a few minutes ago. We went to the mall a while ago to catch the afternoon screening of Anger Management, which was pretty hilarious even though Adam Sandler couldn't act even if his life depended on it. Twas a good thing Jack Nicholson hasn't lost his touch-- loved him best, though, in The Shining.
Hey Niknik, "Timothy" never replied hehehe. Go back here soon and finish your dirty job!
***
Used to be so annoyed at him but recently, I found my fingers punching his number, calling him, making some excuse to talk just to hear his voice again. Hahaha, it's so grade school.
I know, I know.
posted by melich on 05:08
Wednesday, April 16, 2003
Gah, lazy bug strikes
Was supposed to do a number of things today (the operative word is "supposed to"). Here they are (some at least), and why I wasn't able to accomplish them.
1. Was supposed to go to the gym this afternoon, especially since I'd promised to be a gym bunny this summer (yah right) and all.
Why I didn't do it: Was unable to restrain self from wasting the whole afternoon sprawled in front of the TV watching Chicago (for the nth time), Bourne Identity, and Sex and the City DVDs.
2. Was supposed to pay my derma a visit today, after a long, long time.
Why I didn't do it: Got terrified of going out since they say SARS has broken out in the country (In other words: tinamad ako).
3. Was supposed to call a friend I'd been meaning to call for the longest time.
Why I didn't do it: Misplaced her number and I was the whole day to remember where I jotted it down. (In other words: I was still busy watching the DVDs).
4. Was supposed to call Chinoy writers and editors to follow-up their tasks, tell them about the line-up, etc.
Why I didn't do it: I said I'd do it after working out. (Refer to #1)
5. Was supposed to have packed for my 5:00 am trip tom...er, I mean later, two hours ago.
Why I didn't do it: Spent the last two hours talking to Sam over the phone.
***
I bought this book last year called "14,000 ways to be happy" and so far (that I’ve read. The book has 612 pages kasi and I've just gone over 20), most of their tips proved ineffective—for me at least. Like this lot:
- The name "Holy Beth" (uh, okay)
- the difference between new England and Manhattan clam chowder (Sorry, can't relate).
- getting a check from the insurance company (Can't relate din).
- smiling at someone who never smiles at you (eh what if inirapan ka?)
- hearing Santa and his reindeer on the roof (like this is going to happen)
- the uncontrollable urge to lean out the car window and yell "Moo!" every time you pass a cow (No, seriously?)
- just one day of looking terrific (and the rest of the days you'd look horrible?)
- cottage fried potatoes, Sturbridge apple bread and all the high caloric foodstuff in the list [Now that I notice it, 60% of the "tips" are food. It seems the author simply jotted down all rich, fatty and sweet goodies she can think off to fill up white space] (once on your lips, forever on your hips)
- shy goldfish (Meron palang "unshy" na goldfish?)
- gravity (actually, wouldn't it be great if we can fly?)
Eto yung pwede na:
- holding hands while walking (pa sway, sway pa?)
- being kissy
- beauty books
- garage sales
- kris kringle
- roses
posted by melich on 09:19
Sunday, April 13, 2003
My tita from Canada is arriving tomorrow! Really love having her around. We'll be in Ilocos for the holy week then go to Cagayan to visit my grandparents there. Really hope we can go whitewater rafting, haay.
***
Cancer
Cancer scares me. Months of unbearable pain, weeks of anticipating more pain, knowing each day leads you closer to...
I got thinking about the big C lately because a close family friend, who is a priest, is in his last stages of lung cancer. I haven't seen him in a while, but I hear he now weighs almost half of what he used to. Last time I saw him was three months ago during my mom's birthday party. That was when he just learned about his disease. Kakadepress when I hear about him and how his disease is worsening. My parents always insert him in their conversations with friends, and I hear the same things over and over:
"May tubig na sa lungs. Wala na talagang pag asa."
"Oo nga, naka-morphine na nga siya eh. Unbearable daw ang sakit. Hindi na siya siguro aabot ng six months."
"Tuwang tuwa nga siya kasi maraming tao nung birthday party niya last week. Siguro talagang dinalaw na siya kasi alam nilang huli na niya yun."
"Sigor naman resigned na rin siya about his cancer."
"Ang lakas naman kasi niya mag-sigarilyo eh."
***
Pinoy Horror Flicks
Speaking of scary, Sheila and I were just talking about Filipino horror flicks, and we agreed that "Halimaw sa Banga" was the one of the creepiest we've seen. Where can you get a copy of the film kaya? I'd also like to watch the "Balete Drive" (the one with Mary Walter) movie again and the Shake, Rattle and Roll flicks.
Here are two of my favoirite lines from old Pinoy horror movies:
"Dalawampung taon ko na nakikita yang babae na yan, hindi parin nagbabago and hitsura niya" -Berting Labra, reffering to Alma moreno's character in Aswang *imagine him saying it with sound effects*
"Hindi tao ang beybing iyan" -from Tiyanak, starring Janice de Belen.
There's another movie I liked, I forgot nga lang the title, where the lead character was asked to go home to their province because her sister apparently died. When she got home, she was startled to see her sister (played by Gina Alajar) alive. She was happy for a while, but soon she noticed there was something eerie about her sis--for one thing she smells like she's rotting, plus she doesn't utter a word and she eats nothing but frickin soil. Later she learns that her sister was dead pala talaga, and she was only ressurected by a crazy cult who's trying to play God. I really liked that one, hope I can watch it again. Anyone up for a Pinoy horror film marathon?
The Others was interesting, and the Exorcist hilarious. But man, give me Filipino horror movies anyday for a genuine scare.
posted by melich on 07:39
Saturday, April 12, 2003
Coffee?
I don't know what it is with me and going on dates. I dunno, but whenever I get invited "for coffee" and such by guys I hardly know or not that interested with, I find myself making an excuse not to go, calling in a raincheck. The funny thing is, I never realized this until recently when I got invited to "go out" by this guy I've known for a while who's really nice, cute even, but not really my type. It was the third time he'd asked, and it just hit me it'd also be the third time I'd give him a why-I-couldn't-make-it-maybe-next-time excuse.
My friends are all out for me to go. "Give him a chance. How will you get to know him if you won't even go out with him?" And they are right. Maybe I am expecting too much-- that I'd meet someone and connect with him without going through the hassles of "going out" or "having coffee". I just find the process of dating awkward, and to be aware I am on a date even more awkward. Especially with someone I don't know that well.
There was a guy I met in Canada last year named Graham, and we made plans to tour the city on his bike and have a picnic at the park. Everything was going great, but the day before the date I cancelled it. He was nice and all, but I didn't like him that way and didn't want him expecting anything. I never went out with him.
Yes I know, I was crazy. I guess I still am. I never noticed it, but now when I think about it there seems to be a pattern. Why do I see dating as making a commitment when it is simply a way to get to know someone better, no strings attached?
I was talking to Sheila a while ago and all of a sudden she blurted, "I don't see you married, Mel. I see you as a solitary soul." Funny, but that scared me. Perhaps she is right, if my attitude doesn't change soon.
Sige na nga, lalabas na po.
posted by melich on 10:43
Wednesday, April 09, 2003
Palawan pics:
Sunset at Dos Palmas. (nakaka-senti, noh?)
Me and Zo at Dos Palmas
The mouth of the cave towards the Underground River.. the area where the fresh and saltwater meet
We were feeling creative, and also had loads of film to burn, so Mark and I tried on different poses
Unspoilt beach at Sabang (the two figures are Maggie and Zo)
posted by melich on 08:52
Palawan on mah mind
I was in Palawan last week for 2bU. It was amazing! I felt so lucky to be there, considering I was a replacement's replacement to cover the place.
I am not a water person, but the crystal clear Palawan waters was enough to turn me into a water baby for three days. I was with Mark, a fellow correspondent, along with Zo and Maggie from Cosmo. Zo, I found out, went to the same high school I did, went to the same college also, took my course too, was in my org, is friends with Rom's sister and was my high school trig teacher's younger sis. Interesting.
Most of the time during the trip, Mark and I preferred that we just take a dip in the resort's pool (which was only 4 feet deep, by the way). The lukewarm water was sooo soothing. One time, when we went swimming till midnight, we realized we were not only alone in the pool but also in the entire vicinity. We then started imagining ourselves as rich people who had the entire resort a house, with the rest of the island our garden and the staff as people all ready to serve our whims and caprices. For several minutes, it wasn't hard to believe the image
Snorkeling
Although Mark and I'd much rather take a dip in the pool and the beach, sometimes we had no choice but to take part in various water activities Dos Palmas had planned for us, like snorkeling and diving.
It may sound funny but I was scared by the thought of snorkeling. I just didn't like the idea of having to breathe through your mouth. It seems so... unnatural. But it was not everyday you get a chance to snorkel so I crossed my fingers and donned the goggles and mouthpiece.
When you get the hang of snorkeling, it was okay. But sometimes, I'd forget to breath through my mouth and try to suck in air from my nose. When that happens, water would seep through my goggles and it would sometimes reach my throat, gagging me. When that happens, I would panic and lift my head for air. Whenever I lift my head, the instructor would yell "Blow! Blow!" meaning, I should blow through the mouthpiece so the water would not block my air passage. After "blowing" I would lift my head down, back to the water. This happened several times, and each time it did, Mark would be giggling. Later, he told me why "Sounds like he's ordering you to blow him."
Diving lessons
If I was scared of snorkeling, then I was terrified by the prospect of scuba diving. The feeling of gagging during snorkeling was still fresh on my mind, and if ever that happens again I wouldn't be able to lift my head up for air, like what I did during snorkeling. Shit, if we didn't go there for work I swear I wouldn't have even attempted to do it. Mark also felt the same way. But we were assured by Maggie's feedback of the Intro Dive (Diving lessons for first timers), "It's fun! Actually, it's even easier than snorkeling because parang someone will be breathing for you!" Vickie also gave us a vote of courage when she told us she went scuba diving before even if though she hated the water and didn't know how to swim.
After a brief lecture on the gears and things we need to know, we were all set for scuba diving. Butterflies were banging in my stomach at the rate of 80 miles an hour as I strapped on my oxygen tank and placed the mouthpiece in, well, my mouth. It felt weird, inhaling from an oxygen tank (actually "oxygen" is a misnomer because the air contained in the tank was a combo of oxygen, nitrogen and other gases). Weird, but not difficult. I was breathing deeply, taking in air slowly. Soon, it felt normal already.
We stayed afloat for a few minutes before the dive master asked if I wanted to delve deeper. I signaled yes. As we went down 10, 20 feet, I had to adjust my ear to the pressure by covering the mouthpiece with my tongue and swallowing, which really wasn't that difficult to do. The difficult part was moistening my parched throat, which was dry due to the pressurized dry air passing through it.
Sometimes, I would forget to breath through my mouth and try to inhale through my nose. My mask would then tighten and for a second, I'd be terrified because I couldn't breath. Choking is not a feeling I relish. Of course, I would remember my mouthpiece and inhale through my mouth, silently laughing at my stupidity.
Soon, fear left my system and wonder took its place. It was beautiful down there! The dive master had me touch the corals, sea grass and giant clams. I tried to feel the silvery fishies that swam as schools, but they were too fast for me. For a moment, I imagined I actually lived underwater, which was an enticing thought at that time.
I'd love to go scuba diving again. Maybe even try to visit WWII shipwrecks 100ft down like Zo did, who is a licensed diver.
***
Pictures!
I'll post pictures of the trip in a while
posted by melich on 07:49
My first update in the longest time
I haven't been updating my blog for the longest time because of an "incident" (you friends all know what I am talking about). It served as a very important lesson, but that shouldn't keep me from blogging. Been evading blogging for fear I might say something wrong and stuff again. I find it strange however to have to be consciously tactful in your online journal (a journal nevertheless) where you're to spill your guts out. Ho well it's time to move on!
***
Chinese for a day
I just came back from an overnight stay at Discovery Suites for my org's managers' planning seminar. As most overnight activities go, it's a rule to sleep three hours or below (which we've accomplished by the way).
I never thought I'd enjoy myself, really. I've been a (non-active) member in the org for just a year when I applied for its publication's editor-in-chief position (was supposed to go for features ed because I'm sure I won't have the time to be an EIC with work and all, but friends urged me to go for the higher position). When I got the position recently, I discovered that one of its requirements was to bond with fellow managers... which sounded quite a feat because everyone there seemed to know everyone (the org I am referring to is my school's Chinese organization, and we all know how small the fil-chi world is) whereas I didn't know anyone. Felt like a new student in a school where cliques have already been formed. What's harder was I wasn't even Chinese, so I felt more of an outsider. Thus, the prospect of spending overnight to "bond" with these "new" orgmates was scary.
Still, I was looking forward to it. Spending 24 hours in a closed quarters sounds like a fun way to get to know 12 people. And I was right. I believe the closed quarters did wonders. Strange, but by nighttime I felt like one of them.
We stayed at the hotel to discuss our org's agenda. But then we had to leave during nighttime because our head accidentally spilled to the hotel people that there were 10 people (we were 13 actually) sleeping in the suite, and they threatened to charge us P800 per head if they find more than two people in the room by 11pm. Although we had doubts they'd really check on us, we didn't want to take a chance. John, the assistant EIC, offered his pad for us to sleep in. In a way, I was glad that we moved because his pad was much more spacious than our hotel suite, which could barely fit all 13 of us.
In a few hours I realized this: I like my new orgmates, I really do. They (most of them anyway) were sweet, funny, and I had so much to learn from them (such as how to play mahjong, which I did- sort of). We had fun sharing kwentos, talking about common friends/acquaintances (for instance, I found out that one of them was my brother's gf's close friend, etc.), exchanging ghost stories, finishing 3 boxes pizza, which John's mom ordered for us, and taking turns playing the piano.
I have been in college for three years now, but this is the first time I've been active in an org. I didn't think I have much use for one then. Now, I couldn't help but wish I'd have used up those three years being active in one.
posted by melich on 05:38
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