KARMA

KARMA...

KARMABELLS...

KARMS...

HAYUTA-MAO-ITON-KAY-KASALBAHIS-MO!

Hahaha

Anyway, ano nga ba ang KARMA? At bakit ang daming takot diyan, ha?!

KARMA - ito daw yung parang unseen force (paranormal?!) na ewan na galing sa Vedas ng mga Hindu, at madami pang eclavu at churva. (nakalimutan ko na, haha lesson namin yan noon) As a general rule, When you do something good or bad to someone, may kapalit yun in the long run. For example, kung binato mo ng bato, something bad will happen to you, But if binato ng tinapay, something good will happen to you.

Ang gara no?

Kaya kabahan ka, at think twice before you do something.

Baka mamaya, dahil dun sa ginawa mo eh, mag break kayo ni boylet.

Ma hold-up ka.

Pumangit ka.

Mahulog sa balde ang smart phone mo.

Ikasal sa iba si DA ONE.

Bumagsak ka.

or worse,

Manganak ng tuta ang pusa niyo.

Pero, ka asar kasi minsan eh. Aminin, minsan gusto mo na talagang sabunutan yung taong yun. Kaso, bad daw yun. Beware of Karma. Echusera. Eh bakit pag pinag-t-tripan ko yung best friend ko, walang karma?

HOPIA, U LIKE?!

Karma is a B*tch

Pero may times din naman na talagang nadadale ako ni Karmabells.

Minsan sa sobrang inis siguro, I commit stupid and insane things to people. (Deserving naman eh) :) 

Naiisip ko din naman na, "Ay, baka ma-karma ako." but then, come what may ang peg ko pag galit.

Dumadating siya minsan ng agad-agad. Yung, pagkatapos na pagkatapos mo gawin, ayan na agad. Pero, yung often na nangyayari sakin is more of an unexpected comeback. Hindi ko ine-expect na yung "bagay" na yun ang magiging karma of that thing that I did. 

To other people naman, if they do something to me, syempre, kating-kati talaga akong mag revenge. But, you know, andyan naman si Karms, reresbak siya eh.

Yung latest, nangyari ngayon.

Kainis kasi si bru. Hindi marunong mag buy ng food (yung binibili sa market), tapos ako pa yung nag prepare. Oh, eh paano kung mag-asawa na yang si kuya? Nganga yung wife niya kasi hindi marunong magluto. >_<

But I do...

I do believe... in fairies. Cheng! HAHA

Basta, Karma, Do your thing.

FUTURISTIC

Hey! Pa-epal lang saglit ah? Ito yung poem ko (noon) para sa English month noong 3^rd year ako. Ewan ko ba, pero nag champion ako HAHAH akalain mo? Tong basurang to?! (English month daw, pero yung theme – pang math and Science Celebration) Natalo ko pa si dear Junz. Himala. I-Push mo lang yan te!

Kung mali man ang grammar, paki sabi nalang ah? Haha HOPIA, U LIKE?

Today we walk,

For tomorrow we ride,

And the next years to pass,

We will glide.

 

For time is fast,

And not long we shall last,

Keep up the pace,

In this mortal race.

 

We can see the world,

With brand new eyes,

Choose it all – The luxuries in life,

Be a part of the Alta sociodad,

Have the gems you've never had.

 

All of these

We can attain,

Through innovations

We take the train,

We travel through the century,

And O'er the years you will see.

 

Lightening your yolk,

Is what they will do.

Just do what you please,

And order at ease,

For robots will be there to assist.

 

Come ye!

Children of the world!

'Tis the brighter future

That's waiting for you.

Study hard.

Do what's right.

For Innovation is at your side.

Stuck @ Insomnia

May 1, 2013 - 2:41 A.M.

I haven't had a good night's sleep for weeks now.

It scares me already. I mean, this only happens during exams, and when I'm thinking about some things.

I'm pretty sure that nothing's bothering me. If there was, I'd probably know that right?

Or maybe there is…

It's just, 'it' doesn't matter anymore. Well, for one thing, seeing photos of the past brings back memories. Memories that should be ridden of – but keeps on kicking back in every time you have a free time. It's ridiculous, I know. It's crazy because I openly tell people that I'm fine, that I've forgotten.

And we all know I haven't. And it never was okay.

We obviously have some unresolved issues.

Part of me says it's okay because it's been a long time, but my mind says that I will totally freak out if I see them again.

I know seeing them again is inevitable, because there's that fact that clearly states that one of my best buds, is their kin. And one day, eventually, some crazy gathering would bring us all together. Which obviously will be awkward, for everyone. Especially for me. Actually it will hurt me. But I don't see the point, because I've been hurting for a long time and no one seems to find the decency to ask how I'm holding up. That's why I'm practically talking to my computer. 'Cause no one would.

I also know what you're thinking. No, I'm not a psychic. I just know by experience that you people will call me a hypocrite. And yes I'm quite aware of that, because I'd rather have friends – people who do care, to ask me how I feel (And yes I lie to them and tell them the routine "I'm okay, really" phrase that we are oh so familiar with) than people who don't give a crap even if I admittedly confess to them my problem, hoping to find comfort in their presence.

Actually, the thing about me lying that I'm okay is better, because I find comfort in knowing the fact that they (friends) care enough to notice that I'm not myself at that time (without telling them). And just by knowing that, it eases the pressure, the stress, the burden of bearing a problem or crisis.

Cause frankly, if you share these things to the "Tupperware friends" of yours, (if you know what I mean), you'll feel the yoke getting heavier. That and the arrows pointing at their smirks, saying that they will use that dirt on you, like, really soon. =_=

And as I got off topic, I originally wanted to say that ME meeting THEM is a bad idea and I've been avoiding contact for over a year now. Sounds good right? I've recently been planning on how to escape such things in case one does occur anytime in the year since I'll be studying at his hometown and buddy said that "they" have been planning to come visit their relatives. And buddy will come see me so, bummer, I need an alibi if I go AWOL.

As I type this post, I realized that I should revise its title because it has some content that doesn't fit with what I really had in mind. These are two posts forced into one. I'm just lazy. Not really relevant.

I really do have a problem. And I realized it while making this post, just now. This is the reason why I haven't slept well in weeks, because it was this exact month – May, last year, when I realized that it was really over.

Somehow, my heart remembered the pain and the sleepless nights, but my mind didn't, until now. It's like my heart was mourning, and I didn't even recognize it.

Have I gone cold?

Usually, I remember dates, the time of day, the smell of surroundings especially when that day brought me pain. But this, I didn't.

Is this recovery? I sure do hope so!

So, am I okay?

Nope, maybe someday I might be.

But right now, I'm still STUCK at INSOMNIA.

Signing off @ 3:45 A.M.

Valedictory Address – Jade Michael Nuguit Ada; Laoang National Technical High School, Batch 2013

"I travelled down a dark hallway extending to as far as I could see. My only possessions are a piece of paper a pen and a torch to guide me through the darkness that consumed most of my vision. Stones would rattle and the Earth would quake but I held onto the pillars that stood side by side at the walls for support. At first I had no idea what I was travelling for. But then as I went along, I realized something. And it all became clear. And that is what I will be sharing with you today."

Honored Guest Mr. Silvano Pinca, To our Municipal Mayor - Honorable Madeliene Mendoza-Ong, To our principal Mr. Henry Loverita, to the head of the Related Subjects Department Mrs Ana Muncada, To the head of the Vocational Subjects Department Mrs. Yasmin Dulay, teachers, faculty members, parents, batchmates and visitors, good evening.

Speaking in front of people is not my forte but somehow I have mustered the courage to speak in behalf of our batch. And it is a privilege to do so.

The story I imparted to you was a figment of my imagination and symbolize us in many ways. We are the travelers through that dark hallway which is the path that we chose to tread. And in it, we pursue our dreams despite the darkness, the uncertainty it.

Our possessions, the piece of paper, symbolizes our unwritten history and the ink of the pen are our experiences and knowledge that we have acquired through the years which we will use to put our mark on history.

The torch symbolizes our teachers for they became that beam of light– emitting rays for us to see and to know the things we were ignorant of.

The quakes and disturbances are the distractions and troubles, or it may be the challenges that we face. Yet the walls and pillars will always be there.

The walls symbolize our friends who stand together for us, and the pillars symbolize our parents for they are that stronghold that stands firm, the pillars that lead the path to our destination.

Someone told me that graduation was both the beginning and the end. Two nights before our graduation, our English teacher told me that. Because I, for one, had trouble making this speech, was lost for words and needed help.

When I sat down to ponder that, I thought "Anano liwat an meaning siton?". After giving it much thought, I realized that as we travel through that path that we trod it may not be clear to us yet, but soon enough we will see the light – we will see success.

Graduation truly is the beginning and the end. For we must part here. Though I regretfully say that our High School life has ended, I am deeply happy that we will push on to the next level. Kahit na we will part ways – go to different colleges, masaya ako dahil we have spent our High School life together, did crazy stuff together, laughed, cried… and we will cherish every bit of it. Im sure ganoon din kayo. Like a seed that withers first before it sprouts – we must leave the comforts of high school to explore the new phase, the fresh new start. And there we will bloom. That is our neww beginning. Pero kahit ganoon, even if we leave this school, we will take its memories with us, in the heart and in the mind.

To our parents, who loved us despite our imperfections, and striving hard to provide for us despite the rise and fall of the economy, salamat po. We owe to you what we are right now. Thank you for the discipline that you showed us, that we may be better persons in the future. Ma, Pa, thank you po for everything. We hope that this milestone in our life might somehow be enough to make up for all those things.

To all the brothers and sisters out there, especially to mine, Kuya, thank you for being the role model that brothers and sisters truly are. Thank you for helping us with our assignments and putting up with our childishness and naughtiness.

To our teachers, - kay Maam Marilou po, Ma'am, you have been there to support our endeavors kahit hindi na kami under sayo. You have been both our mentor and our friend. To ma'am Claribelle, ma'am, thank you for making our class worth attending. We enjoyed every minute of it. To Sir Ronaldo and Sir Semeon, thank you for the true to life examples and life's lessons that we get from you. To Sir Abad Adora, Sir, thank you for instilling in us the discipline and the tips in preparation for our college life. To ma'am Sally, our Tita Sally, thank you po for being that cheerful Tita during scouting that we look up to. To ma'am Ellalyn and ma'am Gladys, we love you po. Thank you for showing us the fighting spirit. To ma'am Mary Joy, we will never forget our classes in Biology. To ma'am Abegail, thank you for being that teacher who introduced us to the world of words. And to all our other teachers, our deepest thanks and gratitude. You will forever be a part of our lives.

To God almighty, we owe to you our life. We would never have achieved this without You.

To my classmates and batch mates, well, WE MADE IT! Thank you for all the memories. I will never forget the best parts of the four year stay in our Alma Mater.

Ghandi once said, and I quote, "You can be the change you wish to see in the world." Hence, I hope that I would find you here, after many fruitful years, in our hometown, making the change that we are capable of doing – being the persons that we are capable of being.

Thank You and Mabuhay tayong lahat!

BATCH 2012-2013: Class Prophecy

Class Prophecy

"Passengers of flight 719A, we are boarding the plane bound for Paris, Italy, in an hour."

    It's crowded in here. You can see a lot of people going in and out of NAIA. Children are crying, parents saying their goodbyes; students being sent off by their friends as they cry and ask for 'pasalubongs'; some are here for education, some for business, some are just here for pleasure.

But one thing is for sure. They all have dreams, ambitions that they are willing to turn into reality. Pretty much like me a few years ago.

It has been ten years since I last set foot in the Philippines. After high school, I packed my bags and flew to college. I'm a professional now, and is very successful at it. I came here for vacation to visit my parents who sent me halfway around the globe to prepare for my future.

Way Back Home

When I came back to my hometown, I was lost. Samar changed a lot! Especially Laoang – with new buildings, malls, just like Manila, but with less pollution.

I went back to my Alma Matter – Laoang National Technical High School and was surprised to see Josie Menguen, Jennifer Ochia and Erlita Dominggo as Secondary Teachers in Math, Science and English respectively, here in our school!

"When did you come back?" asked Erlita.

"A few days ago, I'm on vacation for about a month. Then I'll be back to Paris. So, what's new?" I asked them as they took their coffee break.

They told me a lot about our classmates in high school like Abegail Giray and Julie Ann Irinco who are now English teachers in Sewon High School, Seoul, South Korea.

"So many of us had gone into the teaching profession and are doing great," I mumbled while drinking my coffee.

"Yes, and there's more!" Jennifer said excitedly. "Have you ever heard about Myx Fusion?"

"Well, yes. I heard they were famous here in Asia." I replied.

"That's because they are!" Josie said "You wouldn't believe who their vocalist is!"

"Oh-Kay. Who is it then? " Boy, are these people weird! How could I possibly know? All I know is that it's a band that sing songs, do world tours, sells albums and then signs autographs.

"Ate Adz!" they all shouted in unison!

I don't believe it! I just sat there with my mouth open. Wow! Adelyn Galero, you are really something!

"She is living in Korea right now and is married to Jake Angelou Vargas. You know, the singer/actor. Ruffa Irinco's there too, wed with his long-time-crush from high school, Mark Anthony Corocoto. Ruffa has her name all over Korea. She owns the Irinco – Corocoto Architectural Firm. Teffany Dula owns the famous restaurant Collins that specializes in Asian Cuisine combined with French techniques. Her husband, Kyle Collin, gave it to her for her 25^th birthday. Pablo lives in Seoul too. He works in Ruffa's Architectural Firm. They usually chat with us on Skype. He's a real woman now." Erlita lengthily explained.

My eyes grew wide!

"What did you say?!" Maybe I just heard it the wrong way.

"It's true," she replied calmly. "He's now transgendered. You wouldn't even recognize him. Actually, he's been a model in the States for three years now and is a contestant for Ms. Universe 2023."

"Are you serious?" I asked, still not believing the news. It has been a long time and I have lost contact with most of my friends.

"Yes," Erlita walked towards the trash bin and threw the styro-cups in. "the coronation is tomorrow night. We could still make it if we leave now."

Leaving just like that was a little bit absurd but I really wanted to see what Pablo looked like. So we packed our bags, and got into a plane to Vegas.

"Ma'am, would you like some refreshments?"

I looked up to face the flight attendant in front of me. Oh my! It's Judith Mejica!

"Judith!" Erlita pulled her for a big hug.

"Hey you guys! I missed you!" Judith said with tear-filled eyes. "Why are you going to Vegas anyway?" she asked.

"We're going to support Pablo. He's a contestant in Ms. Universe." Jennifer explained.

"Ah yes, I've heard so too. Wow, I wish I could go too, but my fiancé and I are going out for dinner." Judith said with dreamy eyes.

I'm sensing love in the air. It's not even February yet. Isn't it too early?

"Congratulations!" Josie said while clapping her hands.

"Thank you! He's even here. You know, Charlie Green. I've got to work. Have a nice flight." She said as she left with the food trays, facing the passengers again.

A few hours later, we are in front of the MGM Grand Arena for the coronation night of Ms. Universe.

As we took our seats, I saw famous personalities like Charice, Beyonce and Jay-Z , Oprah Winfrey, Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez, The President of the United States of America with his secret service headed by Jerome Giray. He smiled at our direction as he escorted the President to his seat.

I also saw THE famous photographer Nigel Barker together with model and America's Next Top Model creator – Tyra Banks followed by model and theater actress Andrea Camille Magno with her husband Harry Styles from boy band, One Direction.

"Cacai!" I called out to her. She waved at me and excused herself from the group. I hugged her really tight. She hugged me back and gave me that what-are-you-doing-here-i-didn't-know-you-were-coming look.

"We're here to support Pablo." I explained as I rolled my eyes.

"We?" she asked, a bit confused.

"Well yes, I'm with Josie, Jennifer and Erlita. Come on, I'm sure they'll be so glad to see you." We talked and laughed at the same time. I missed her.

"Oops! Sorry!" I blurted out as I accidentally bumped the man in front of me.

"It's okay!" he said.

"Lester?" he looked at me in bewilderment.

"Tabs! It's you!" I said as I slapped him in the back.

"Cacai? Jade? What are you doing here?" he asked.

"The same reason as you are, moral support." Andrea said.

A woman suddenly appeared from behind him and took hold of his arm.

"Lester, let's go, they are waiting for us." It was no other than Angielyn Espina, his wife.

Angielyn owns the infamous Toy Company which has over 700 branches around the globe while Lester is a primary investor and business associate of Lopez, Ayala and Zobel. They are quiet a business minded couple.

They took us to their group. My classmates who migrated to America is here too! This is awesome!

The lady in a black office suit with long curly hair looks just like – Jasmine!

I was right. If it isn't my favorite niece. I hugged her. "Wow, you look great!"

"Thanks," she said. "I'm a lawyer in Canada. I took an early flight to catch this."

"So I've heard." Kuya Gener had it all planned out and volunteered to shoulder her tuition. She is very lucky.

She took Cacai and me to their seats and pointed out each member of the group.

"Rizza Beth Centino, " she began.

"Model and fashion designer." I but in. I still remember Rizza, she was my classmate in Paris School of Design. Mary Joy Cerbito is here too – with Coco Martin?

"Yes, I'm officially Mrs. Rodel Luis Cortez Nacianceno." She said laughing. Coco just sat there holding her hand, beaming with pride. Mary Joy is also a well know fashion designer, like Rizza and I. She went to Paris too, but now lives in Canada with Coco.

"Melanie Cerbito, proud owner of the Famous Lanie's Bakeshop is here too. Chelin Luto is here with her husband, singer Greyson Chance." Jasmine continued.

Wow, I never knew that they would be successful like this.

"Mary Rose Cerbito, is a registered nurse in Canada, she married Niall Horan. Jobert Luis Cabales is a professor in Canada. Maidy Joy Ruga is also a teacher in Canada. She ended up with Alex Espejo."

"Wow! Maidy! Finally you realized how you loved Alex!" I said teasingly. "So where is he?"

"He was invited to speak in a university in U.K." she replied.

Just then, I heard a ringing laughter. A very familiar one.

"Oh that's Jessa Balanquit. She's a computer programmer and works for Bill Gates together with Shella May Aducal. They are one of the very few whom the company recruited."

"Ladies and gentlemen, please be seated. The final judging for Ms. Universe 2023 is about to start."

As we sat there all throughout the Question and Answer Portion, I could not stop thinking about how fast time had gone by.

Oh yes, Pablo looked so real. Such a beauty. Yet, he is still Pablo – competitive and sarcastic. Gay, but still true to himself. Maybe that's why…

"And the winner is…the lady with exquisite beauty and wit is no other than…"

All Ye Rejoice!
J

We're now heading off to one of Teffany's branches of Collins here in L.A. to celebrate Patricia's (As Pablo calls herself) victory. Our HS classmate is Ms. Universe 2023! How cool is that?!

Guess who we found sitting by the glass windows? The owner of L'Oreal's newest product endorser, Hessian's Hair Café – Gildalyn Ronato who is now married to Al Lipata a professor in UST; April Josoa Pulga, personal Accountant of The First Family and works in the White House, Washington D.C.; Elle's Beauty Salon's, Ellysa Mendoza; and Milva Irinco, owner of Minnie's Catering - America's No.1 Asian Themed Catering Service.

Not far from them is teacher Noime Vistante with her husband Felixander Neones.

"Hey you guys!" I called out to them as we entered the restaurant.

They looked at us and were surprised to see that almost all of batch 2013 is here.

"Let me guess, the coronation night." Gildalyn asked while eating her entre.

"Yes! But we didn't see you there. What happened?" Maidy replied.

"So did we. I mean, the MGM is huge, it's almost impossible to make contact with people you know. Besides, we had to leave. Noime wasn't feeling well." Ellysa explained.

"Well, I won! Don't you feel the need to congratulate your friend?" Patricia exclaimed.

"Nah. We don't feel that need." April said.

"What? How come! You are such a…" Patricia looked like she could eat a person whole.

"Here we again." Jasmine rolled her eyes.

"This is gonna be good." Lester sarcastically whispered to us.

April and Patricia had always been the cat and mouse of our section.

"…No, we don't feel the need to congratulate you. Because, we don't need to – we want to. Congratulations Patricia! You made us all proud." April said laughing. "Got you there Patrice."

"…such a nice person. Thank you April!" Patricia finally finished her sentence with a big grin on her face.

We ordered their specialty and went about talking. The food was good! We've got to commend her husband's chefs.

"What are you eating?!" A loud scary voice made us all stop – with our spoons and forks still hanging in the air.

"Eli Rose!" we shouted in unison, pushing our chairs to greet her.

"No, no, no! It's Dr. Eli Rose Potot, resident pediatrician at your service." She said matter of factly.

"Oh, I wish Rosary was here." I said hiding my smile.

"What? Why?" Eli Rose asked, a bit confused.

"So that we could get her checked." I blurted out laughing.

"Ha-ha, real funny."Angielyn said.

"Nah, the Doctor is Out." Eli Rose laughed with us.

"Anyway, where is Rosary?" I wondered aloud.

"Oh, she's not coming. She's a teacher in Singapore. Felomina married DJ…" April answered.

"…Wait, what?! DJ?! As in THE Daniel John Ford Ejercito Padilla?" I asked.

"Duh. Is there another DJ from our generation?" Maidy cut in.

"How?" I still couldn't believe it!

"Well, the best way to a man's heart is through his stomach. Felomina owns Minniel's Cake Shop – named after her husband (which was still her crush at that time) Daniel, which serves mouth-watering chocolate desert, cakes, and other pastries. Maybe that's how they met." April explained. "Anyway they are on vacation in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia."

"Hey guys, I forgot to mention, but John Ronald Atencio, called me just before coronation to wish me luck." Pablo/Patricia said out of nowhere.

"Where is that gay… guy… whatever." I asked. Really, we were never able to figure out if he was gay or not. He was – undecided.

"I know what you're thinking, but no. He have decided 5 years ago, and is married to a hunk Argentinian model." Patricia said.

"Transgendered?" I asked.

Patricia/Pablo cocked an eyebrow at me.

"What is that supposed to mean?" Patrice accusingly asked.

"No! It's just that, you'll never know." I nervously replied.

Her death-glare softened a little. "No, Ronald is not transgendered."

Uncovered: Missing to be missed

After eating we stayed a little while longer and decided to hang at the bar at the fourth floor of Collins.

"Oh wait," I stopped just outside the elevator. "I forgot my purse on the dining table. You guys go ahead."

"I'll go with you. Besides, it's my restaurant. I won't miss anything." Teffany offered. "Let's just use the short cut. Trust me, I know this place." She winked as she pulled me through the noisy crowd, waiting to hitch a ride on the elevator.

We went through a white door that led to a spiral white staircase. Its designs were intricate, just like the designs on the entrance door of the Titanic. It must have been copied from the Victorian era.

I halted. My feet froze. Is that Lucky and Kent?

"Ah yes, Lucky Boy and Kent Joshua. My husband traveled with them once. Hence, the picture. They are sailors of the Black Pearl. A very expensive cruise ship, who travels the Caribbean seas." Teffany explained hurriedly.

We reached the bottom of the stairs. She pushed a protruded brick towards the wall and it was torn in two, revealing another door, which opened to the dining area.

No one noticed our arrival. We were hidden by hanging vines.

"Kyle showed me that passage way when we went here before. He said, it had always remained a secret in the family members. This used to be the meeting place of important people in history."

"Wow." I was really astonished.

We took the elevator back to the bar. Whilst inside, she told me lots of encounters with our classmates, like Eng. Dexter Joseph Acuyan, who is the now the Ambassador of the Philippines to Dubai, and Ronnie Cerbito, a wild life photographer in Australia.

We had a great time that night but unfortunately, I had to go back to the Philippines the next day, so I bid them goodnight and left.

The second time around

It is truly hot in the Philippines! My sweat was dripping as I waited for a taxi to pick me up at the airport. Just then, a pregnant woman fainted! I ran to her, and was surprised to see who it was! Gladys! I called for an ambulance. Luckily, a passing nurse came walking by.

"Richelle!" thank God for nurses.

"What happened to Gladys?" she asked.

"I don't know, she just fainted." I replied.

The ambulance came. Richelle cleared out the people and motioned for me to go with her.

As we went through the traffic to the hospital, I remembered our role playing in Biology and our Christmas Party in senior year, where she played a pregnant woman. And now, after ten years, she really is.

As we waited outside the ER, Ferrea and Rogelyn came rushing in.

"What happened?" Rogelyn asked frantically.

"She fainted. But she will be okay. They are checking on the baby right now." Richelle said, calming them down.

Ferrea and Gladys have been business partners for years in their business venture – GlaRea's Pinoy Food Cart Franchising Company, which reached the international market earlier this year.

Rogelyn on the other hand became the heiress of her Aunt's merchandising business and was able to upgrade it within two years. She now owns the biggest and most successful fast growing mall-chains in Asia, GSM (Gelyn's Super Market) and GMA (Gelyn's Mall of Asia) which now stands on the former location of the SM Mall of Asia, whose venture she was able to end.

I left them to bond as the doctor declared that both Gladys and the baby were alright.

As I was walking down the pathway, I saw a tall morena lady talking loudly on the phone.

"You're choppy! I can't hear you… yes, just don't alter anything and I'll be… hello? Hello?!"

"Rochel?" She really looked like her.

"What?! Oh… Hi!" She smiled.

"Hey! How are you? You look great!" I couldn't help but compliment her.

"Yeah, Engineer Nebrida at your service." She said grinning.

"…and married too, as I see." J I laughed.

"Yes, with Renzo. Do you remember? You were my first friend in high school, and the first one to know about my love story. He's an engineer too. He was on the phone a while ago."

"So, where are you going?" I asked in curiosity.

"UST. We're reconstructing a few buildings there. Want to come with?" she offered.

"Sure."

Homeland noblemen

On Campus Grounds…

"Wow! This place is huge!" I exclaimed.

"I know right?"

"It's the oldest too." A familiar voice said from behind us.

Our heads shot back. It was Prof. Al Lipata J

"Hello!" he said cheerfully.

Three more heads sprouted from his behind him.

Who would have thought that Mary Rose Lagrimas, Joan and Aljun would also be teaching in UST?

"Hyper!" Rochel hugged Mary Rose. "You didn't support Patricia." She said accusingly.

"We have classes." Hyper said.

"But, we did watch the telecast on Velvet." Aljun said.

"Yes, and we won right?" Joan hyped up. "I taught him all that." She said, raising an eyebrow.

"Sure you did, hon." Aljun replied.

I turned to face Kuya Al.

"You should be with your wife, you know." I said.

"Let her be. She's on vacation." He said sheepishly.

"And why didn't you come?" I pressed on.

"Do you know how hard it is keep your cool on crazy coeds?" he laughed heartily.

"I'm there with you." I agreed as they led us away from the construction site.

"I heard you are based in Paris?" Hyper piped up.

"Yeah, that. It was just only supposed to be after graduation. But, there were great opportunities at that time, and I just couldn't leave." I said.

"You could've gone home." Kuya Al interrupted, "There are lots of opportunities here too. Besides, you are a Pilipino. What about working for the betterment of our country?"

"It is always better to be where your ancestors have once stood. To be home – nothing beats that." He continued.

"I know." I sighed, "But I guess, we each have our own roads to tread."

I knew he was right. I could even just stay here, and not go back to Paris in order to serve my countrymen. But you cannot live a life which is not yours. And with an abnormal brain like mine, I longed for adventure.

One day, I know I'll do exactly that – stay, to where my feet were supposed to take roots. And be a proud Pilipino once more.

On the Wings of Life

    Now I'm on my way back to Paris.

"Final call for the passengers of flight 719A, we are now boarding the plane bound for Paris."

    It's crowded in here. You can see a lot of people going in and out of NAIA. Children are crying, parents saying their goodbyes; students being sent off by their friends as they cry and ask for 'pasalubongs'; some are here for education, some for business, some are just here for pleasure.

But one thing is for sure. They all have dreams, ambitions that they are willing to turn into reality. Pretty much me a few years ago.

    After what seemed to be eternity, we arrived at the airport. From there I took a cab to my flat.

    "Mademoiselle," the young courier called out to me just as I entered the re-modeled 12 story white Venetian styled building. "A letter for you."

    "Gracchi." I said as I opened the brown envelope. Out came a single dove's white feather, with the tip covered with a huge golden ribbon, which had a felt-tip pen writings on it.

You are cordially invited

To witness the

Iovelli – Balanlay

Nuptial

This Friday, 9:00 A.M.

@the Palazzo Iovelli

 

    Diane is getting married! And to the richest bachelor in our city! This is good news! I immediately called Teffany and she said that she had just received the letter last night. They are the best of friends so normally, she would be one of those few who would foresee the event.

    "When are you coming?" I asked her.

    "Tomorrow, at the least. I'll book my flight this morning. " she said before hanging up.

So in love <3

    As one of the bridesmaids, I made sure that I wore my finest things.

    "We are on in a minute."

    Said the woman in the headsets. She must be the floor directress. I mean, this wedding is televised all throughout Paris!

    Diane finally arrived.

    "Congratulations!" I said as I kissed her cheeks.

    "Thanks! I'm so happy you could come." she replied, "where is Teffany?" she asked

    They talked only for a few seconds then we started to walk.

    As my turn became nearer, I saw the church. It was huge, and had probably the longest catwalk-like aisle that I have ever seen!

    But that was not the end of it.

    I was even more surprised to see Reverend Fr. Ronnie Sister, as he performed the wedding rites to the young couple before him.

    I caught up with him at the reception. He told me about how he's changed, and is now happily abiding God's word.

    "Congrats Diane!" I said as I came near the newlyweds. "Congratulations Mr. Iovelli."

    "Gracchi." he said in a happy voice.

    "Thanks," Diane added. "Stay longer, okay? We still have tea at the palazzo gardens."

    "Yeah sure." Suddenly, my phone rang. "Sorry, I'd have to take this." I excused myself to the group.

    "Hello?" "Who is this?" I asked.

    "I'm sorry to disturb you Mademoiselle, but your client needs you at the Parliament in a few hours. Have you forgotten that today is the hearing of the case?" Gertrude, my secretary in my Law firm called.

    "I'm sorry. I totally forgot. I will be there soon." I said.

    "Oh and, Vogue Magazine and Gucci wanted to remind you about the upcoming fashion week. You are to submit your designs as early as next week. " she continued.

    "Okay, is there anything else?" I asked

    "Yes, only one important thing. The Royal Ballet is requesting you for the castings of the 2023 Swan Lake Performance in London, for the Queen's Birthday. You are expected to start casting for roles as soon as next month."

    "Thank you Gertrude! Bye now. I'll be sure to meet those deadlines." I assured her.

'til we meet again <3

    Busy schedules, weddings, heartbreaks, victory, adventures.

This was what awaited us in the past ten years of our existence.

• A new life, a better life that we thought we'd never have.
  

And now, I can safely say that we all have our purpose in life.

• I guess we all have places to be,
  

A place to take roots, and a place – with the best view, to reminisce about the past.

Some are in that place for education, some for business, romance or even just for pleasure.

But one thing is for sure. They all have dreams, ambitions that they are willing to turn into reality. Pretty much like me a few years ago…

Dejavu | …a never ending love…

Inspiration :3

Actually, story ‘to ng love life ng classmate ko. Adorable kasi ako kaya napa-amin ko siya kung sino yung crush niya  :P tapos ayun kinuwento na rin niya yung nakaka-kilabot na love story nila ni “R” doon sa dream niya. Nakaka-kilabot kasi match yung panaginip niya sa tunay na mga pangyayari! Kaya ayun sa sobrang amazement ko, ginawan ko ng story. Mas kinilig pa kasi ako kesa sa kanya eh! -__-

*lahat ng pangalan ay iniba ayon sa rights to privacy ng classmate ko. (ayaw niya kasi mabuko) *Ang pagkaka-pareho ng pangalan at pangyayari ay purely coincidence lamang.

*hoy classmate! Dalian mo! Baka maunahan ka ng ibang babae at maging forever taken na ang boylet mo! Sayang naman tong katha ko para sa inyong dalawa! Ginalingan ko talaga ang pagsusulat ah! Dinescribe ko talaga yung ugali niyang pagiging adik sa DOTA but still nakaka-pasa and stuff! :P Good luck sa inyo!

*to my readers, I hope you’ll enjoy this story!

 

 

 

WHEN I FIRST MET YOU

 

“Bree, sa akin ka nalang. Di kita iiwanan.”

Hay… Eto na naman siya. Ang lalaking walang mukha na lagi nalang laman ng panaginip ko. Ewan ko nga eh, parang feeling ko, matagal ko na siyang kilala. Pero, kahit naman paulit-ulit lang ang panaginip ko, eh hindi ko talaga masilip man lang ang mukha ng prince charming ko. Ay, hindi pa pala ako nagpapakilala. Ako nga pala si Sabreena Marie’ Sanchez, a junior at White Lake High, 16, Philippines! Chos! Haha kimi lang. Hmm… gusto ko na siyang makita/makilala. Ang hirap naman kasi ng face-less ang dream boy mo eh.

“Hoy Bree!”

Anak ng tokwa naman oh! Nagulat ako dun ah! Istorbo talaga tong si Jess! Best friend ko siya since kinder kaya may K siyang mang-asar kasi alam niyang kahit anong galit ko, di ko siya matitiis. Mahal ko kaya ang bruhang to!

“Oh Jess, eh anong problema mo? Gusto mo bang magka mini-heart attack ako?”

Ayaw niya sigurong makagraduate ako ng HS kaya papatayin nalang ako sa sindak. Tsss! Luma na yan! Poser! Palabas yan ni Kris eh!

“Hmm… eto naman, parang tinawag lang kita! Oh, ready ka na ba na ma-meet ng personal ang bagong school mo?”

Kahit kailan talaga, shunga tong si Jess. Ma-meet ng personal? Ano to tao? Minsan talaga, sarap batukan eh!

“Ay naku SOBRA, excited na nga ako eh!”

Sarcastic kong sinabi. Pero partly namang totoo yun eh. Medyo excited na rin naman akong lumipat sa new school ko. Si Madam Principal kasi, siya ang butihin kong tiyahin. Kaya naman, since always away ang parents ko sa business nila, they convinced me to stay with my aunt.

                “Ganun naman pala eh! Tara, let’s go na, baka ma-late pa tayo niyan.”

                o.O bah! Akalain moh? Di niya nadistinguish and sarcasm sa hindi? Alang kwentang bespren! Tss!

                Nakarating naman kami ng maayos sa White Lake High. Tae, kala ko maeexcite ako eh ang gloomy ng campus nila. Or, yun ang first impression ko.

                Parang napansin naman ni Jess na nagbago ang mood ko.

                “Ano ka aba! Mas exciting dito sa school namin. Tiwala lang.”

                Kaya ayon. I used my cheerful personality muna. Sypempre naman, newbie eh. Kakahiya naman kung ipapakita kong bored ako, edi nagkagulo.

                We went to the bulletin board and found our names. Hooray! Classmate ko si Jess! At least, hindi na awkward. So, with the class admission slip in our hands, we went to our classroom. Malapit lang naman eh.

                Sa katunayan, nasa 4^th floor lang naman kami. -______-

                “Jess! Pwede pahinga muna tayo! Puhleeeaasse?! Magkaka arthritis ako kaagad neto eh!”

                “Hindi yan! Tiwala lang!”

                Yun na naman? Ano, word of the day ba toh, o ano?

                To make the long story short, nakarating narin kami sa room.

                Sa wakas. -______-

                “Okay class, I’m Ma’am Charo and I am your adviser.”

Ayy! Taray!

 “Alam kong magkakakilala na kayo since freshman year, so no need to introduce.”

                Umm, haler?! Bree here! Bago ako, duh?! o.O

                “Ayy! Oo nga pala, we have a new student. Come here hija, let’s get you acquainted.”

                Hi everyone! I’m Sabreena Marie’ Sanchez, 16. I’m new here so please be nice to me.

                Yun lang, and gave them a big grin. Haha ‘Please be nice to me’. LOL I’m such a dork! :P

                Napabungisngis naman si Jess sa narinig. Kahit kalian talaga.

                Nag start na ang klase. Ang bait ko talaga! Nakaupo lang ako, nakatingin sa chalk board. Pero ang layo naman ng iniisip ko. Haha

Nakatingin lang ako sa bintana nang…

o.O  Ang G-W-A-P-O niya!!

He was tall, clean, had black shiny hair, and incredibly handsome.

He seemed nice.

Exactly my type. \(>_<)/

And it felt like I’ve met him before.

Aigoo!

Never mind! He is in a hurry naman. Tas pumasok siya sa room na katapat namin.

Oh! Sodesuka! Senior pala siya.

Late siya. Hihi

Ang aga niyang pumasok para sa 2^nd period. :P

“Ms. Sanchez, nakikinig ka ba?”

Yes ma’am!

Yun lang, and after a few minutes, nag bell na.

Off to cafeteria...

Jess and I just sat there and ate. Nang biglang dinumog ako ng mga classmates namin. Haha. Akala ko naman, di nila ako nagustuhan kaya walang nag-greet sakin. Tumi-tyempo lang pala sila. Ayun na  nga, nagpakilala na sila at ako naman eh sinikap na imemorize yun J bait ko kasi eh. Haha laki ng ulo! :P

Excuse me.

Napalingon ako.

This is my seat.

Oh God. Parang tina-tambol ang dibdib ko!

It’s him!

Para naman hindi ako mapahiya, nakipag sagutan pa ako. Bad Bree, soo bad!

Bakit? Sayo ba tong school? May pangalan ba ang upuang toh? Sino ka ba ha?

Parang nahiya naman ako sa mga pinagsasabi ko. Hihi. Pero andito na eh. Pangangatawanan ko nalang ang pagiging echosera. Isa pa, baka mahalata niyang type ko siya. :P

Kumunot naman ang noo niya na parang di makapaniwalang hindi ko siya kilala. Then he smirked. Na-offend ako dun. Akala ko pa naman gentleman siya.

That *ssh*l*.

Well, I’m Travis Lim. Don’t you know me? You must be new here!

Oo naman noh! Bago ako dito kaya maging mabait ka! F*gg*t!

Hila naman ng hila sakin si Jess para tumayo na. Mababakas sa mukha niya ang takot.

Shouldn’t you be going already?

At may pagka antipatiko pala toh eh.

I guess, we better get going then. We shouldn’t really sit amongst crazy people!

Sabi ko sabay padabog na umalis hila-hila si Jess.

You were but a dream…

Nakaka-inis ka naman! Naturingan pa naman kitang bespren! Tss! Di mo manlang ako pinag tanggol doon sa senior nayun! Sino ba kasi yun at takot na takot ka?

Bigla kong sigaw sa kanya nang masiguro kong malayo-layo na kami sa cafeteria.

Si Travis Lim. Matalino at athletic kaya sikat na sikat yan dito.

Matalino nga, eh salbahi naman!

Oy! Mabait kaya yun! Kaya nga naging Student Council President yan kasi model student eh.

Eh?! Bat ang sama-sama niya kanina?

Oh?! Nangyare?!

Nahuli kasing nagdo-dota, kaya first time niyang bumisita sa Guidance Counselor. BV siguro.

Aha! Adik pala yun eh! Ako din naman eh! Na BV ako sa kanya! Grr!

Psh!

May tinatago palang kabulastugan toh eh! Akala mo kung sino. Tss!

Teka bat ba ako naiinis sa kanya?!

Pero in fairness, para ngang kilala ko na siya eh. Yun nga lang hindi ko talaga siya kilala. -____-

Halika ka na nga! Balik na tayo sa room!

Isip-isip lang ako sa mga nangyari kanina at kung bakit parang kilala ko na ang Travis na yun kahit hindi naman talaga. Kaya eto, di ko namalayan na labasan na pala.

BREE!!! HELLO?!! ANDYAN KA PA BA SA KATAWAN MO?!

Si Jess talaga! Nabibingi naman ako neto!

Bakit ba sumisigaw ka?!

LABASAN NA PO KASI MADEMOISELLE! KANINA PA KITA KINAKALABIT PERO AYAW MONG MATINAG!!

Oo nga naman. Ano bang gagawin mo pag di ka marinig? Syempre sisigaw diba?

Bree talaga.

OO NA! WAG KA NANG SUMIGAW!!

Naglakad na kami papuntang gate.

Sakto namang nakita ko si Mang Luis, yung driver ko. Hatid-sundo lang kasi ako. Bawal kasi akong mag commute. Keso daw mawawala ako. Blah blah blah.

Jess, sasabay ka ba sakin?

Hindi na, may sundo naman ako. Buhbye!

Okay! Bukas nalang uli!

Pagka-uwing, pagka-uwi ko sa bahay, diretso agad ako sa kwarto.

Okay naman ang first day ko sa bagong school ko diba?

May asungot nga lang -_____-

Pero, okay lang naman talaga.

Gwapong asungot naman eh! :P

1 text message received

From: Bestie Jess

Bree okay ka lang ba?

Kumusta na ang first day mo, ha?

Xoxo

 

Shunga to eh! Dapat tinanong nalang niya sakin sa school. Dapat ba sa text? Ganun na ba ang uso dito sa kanila?

From: Bree

                Okay lang -____-

                Medyo boring

pero masaya na nakaka-inis!

 

From: Bestie Jess

                Ooooyy aaahh!!!

                Dahil ba yan kay Travis? :P

Eh anong magagawa ko? Eh sira talaga tong bespren ko eh!

From: Bree

                Che!

Ewan ko sayo!

From: Bestie Jess

                Hahahaha

                Huli ka!

                Mga ganun pala ang type mo ah!

Hay ewan ko! Di na ako nag-reply ano! Alam ko naming pagti-tripan lang ako nun hanggang sa mapagod siya sa kakatawa. Jess naman eh!

Nahiga na ako sa kama.

Dahil ba talaga kay Travis?

Sino ba talaga siya?

May point naman kasi si Jess eh.

Hay ewan.

Nakatulog ako ng di manlang kumakain.

 

KRRIIIIIIINNNNGGGGG!!!!

5:00 AM

Di ko maintindihan pero, napanaginipan ko na naman yung dati ko ring panaginip.

Alam mo yung dejavu?

Nakaka kilabot nga eh.

Ever since nalaman kong magta-transfer ako ng school, nag start naman yung weird dream ko na yun.

May kinalaman ba yon doon?

Anyway, kailangan ko nang pumasok sa school. Baka ma-late pa ako. Magalit pa si auntie >_<

 

Getting to Know You…

A few weeks passed.

After noong nangyari sa cafeteria, di na ulit kami nag-usap.

But nalaman ko naman na mabait pala talaga siya.

As in.

Model student nga eh.

Bree naman. Wag tayong tanga.

Model student din naman ako ah :P haha

Actually, ni-recruite ako ni Jannice a sumali sa Student Council.

Pumayag naman ako. Para kasing cool eh. haha

Patingin-tingin nalang ako lagi sa kanya.

Ayaw ko namang lumapit, tsaka, bakit naman diba?

Eh sikat kaya yun!

Tapos, idagdag pang hindi kami bati dahil sa nangyari.

Parang tanga lang ako ditong naka-upo sa may garden,

Nakatitig lang naman.

Teka, bakit ba ako nakatitig?

Aigoo! May gusto na ba ako sa kanya?!

Di pwede! Paano nalang yung guy sa dream ko? Di ko ba siya hihintayin?

Have we met?

 

Travis’ POV

Late na naman ako.

Kainis naman kasi ang traffic.

Napasarap din ang laro ko nang DOTA.

Bwisit naman kasi at nahuli pa ako ni ma’am.

Ayan tuloy nagka record ako ng di oras sa Guidance Office.

“You may leave now Mr. Lim. Again, heed my warning. You are a role model in our school.”

“Yes ma’am.”

Yun nalang ang sinabi ko para wala nang madaming gulo.

Umakyat na ako ng building at pumasok na sa room.

 Ang balita sa room namin, dito na daw nag-aaral yung pamangkin ni Madam Principal Sanchez.

Oh? Talaga?

I really don’t care.

Basta ang nasa isip ko lang eh yung babaeng yun.

Yung babae sa panaginip ko.

Saka ko nalang iku-kwento para ma-excite naman kayo.

Boring….. ang klase naming.

Since, advance na naman ako sa kanila, di na ako nakinig sa discussion.

BV kasi ako ngayon. Tss. Paminsan-minsan nga lang ako mag DOTA. Nahuli pa.

Bell na pala.

Nauna na ako sa cafeteria at bumili ng pagkain.

Pagdating ko sa table ko, may nakaupo na pala doon.

And I can’t believe who she is.

Hindi pwede toh!

Baka imagination ko lang to?!

But no…

Siya nga yun.

Lumapit ako sa kanila at nag-excuse me.

Nung tumingin naman siya sakin, napa nga-nga ako ng bahagya.

Siya nga, yung babae sa panaginip ko.

I composed myself and told her na pwesto ko ang inuupuan nila.

Para namang nagulat siya and nairita all at the same time.

Galit na galit niyang tinanong kung sino ba ako?

Napakunot ang noo ko.

Bat di niya ako kilala?

Diba siya yung girl sa panginip ko?

Ay oo nga pala. Syempre, panaginip lang yun.

Well, siya siguro yung sinasabi nilang newbie.

I smirked sa katangahan ko then nagpakilala at tinanong kung siya ba yung napabalitang newbie.

For confirmation lang naman.

Ang cute niya pag galit >_<

Haha I didn’t mean to make her angry.

Di ko lang talaga natagalan yung presensya niya eh.

Diba nga, kilala ko siya sa panaginip ko, tapos ako di niya kilala? o.O

Nanggigigil na kasi ako na sabihin sa kanya na matagal ko na siyang hinahanap.

Pero syempre, awkward yun kaya sinuggest kong umalis na sila nong kaibigan niyang halatang natakot sakin.

T_T ayaw ko naman siyang umalis eh. Kaya lang..

Baka mahalata niya.

Weird yun!

Kaya naman deadma ko lang siya lagi this past few days.

Pero syempre, kunwari lang yon.

Lagi naman akong nakatitig sa kanya pag di niya napapansin. xD

Nahihiya akong makipag-close sa kanya eh.

Nakikita ko din naman siyang nakatitig sakin so parang nate-tempt akong lapitan siya. Lalo pat, student council na rin siya – lagi na kaming mag-kasama :3

Pero, nauumid ako pag andyan siya.

Itatanong ko pa ba sa kanya kung siya nga ?

Di ko na talaga alam.

Maybe in time.

Yet, I think I like her so…

Bree.

Napatingin lang siya sakin.

Her hair, fell perfectly on her shoulders.

Yung parang slow-motion.

Ganun.

Yay! Ang keso! xD

Hm? Ako ba ang kausap mo?

Sagot niya habang namamanghang nakaturo sa sarili niya.

Bakit? Anong naka-mamangha sa pakikipag-usap ko sakanya?

Eii! Bree naman eh! Ang cute niya talaga.

Ah, yes. Ikaw nga. J

Gusto ko sanang humingi ng tawad sa inasal ko a few weeks ago.

I was just having a bad day. I’m sorry. L Can you ever forgive me?

Sinabi ko naman yun in the most sincere way na kaya ko.

This is the first time na nagkaganito ako sa isang babae.

Di ko nga alam but I always seek to please her.

Kahit hindi niya alam.

Siguro dahil sa feeling ko siya na nga yung .. ah basta!

Ah, yun ba? Wala yun. Ako nga dapat mag-sorry eh!

Pasensya ka na talaga. Shall we start again? I mean, as friends… you get the idea.

Ano ba yan. Mali na naman yung sinabi ko.

Yeah! I’d love that!

Iniabot ko ang kamay ko sa kanya.

Friends?

Friends!

Pero, imbes na makipag hand-shake eh…

Yinakap niya ako o.O

At kinilig naman ako -___-

Na-feel kong naging alangan siya bigla at bumitiw sa akin.

Ang pula niya.

Blush ba? :P

 *hanggang dito lang po muna. :P excited talaga te? haha kinukulit na kasi ako ni Ms. Ano! hahah KALMA LANG TEH!