Read last night that they played in Norfolk just a month ago (T_T) and I missed it. Didn't know how good The Fray's CD was. The song their album title was taken from, How To Save A Life.
Here's a song off of a Japanese animated show, Voltes V back in the 70's, Chichi wo Motomete. I didn't know the words back then but loved it nonetheless. That's music though.
Hope you enjoy it just as much.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Monday, June 26, 2006
Flowers in the attic
It's been close to a month now since my world kinda got shaken all about. Parts of it might be bittersweet, but it still was great. Excitement over getting to meet a friend, seeing the family once again, seeing an ex-lover?, talking to the neighbors just like the old times.
Well after my last post, I was thinking that everything would be set come that Monday. Fly out to LA, spend the night there, and then head down to the Philippines. But that all changed when I got a phone call Saturday afternoon when the booking agency left a voicemail saying that my reservation has been cancelled and I won't be getting on the plane, AT ALL. Philippine Airlines apparently only issues paper tickets, and the lady that called said she has my tickets right in her hand back in California, with not enough time to ship it to me. She said I can fly out Wednesday.
I was at the outlet mall when they called, since I thought about picking up some things for the family, well after I get a backpack that is. I've been meaning to get one for years, and never got around to it for some reason. I called them right when I heard the message, five minutes after they called, but they didn't pick up. So drove right back to the house trying to figure out what to do. That is after encountering someone in the road who had exactly the same car. Oh darn, they'll probably try to race me since when I saw them in the rear view mirror, they were gonna switch lanes to pass me. So they got on the faster lane, knowing that they did, I started fiddling with nothing in the passenger seat, so I'd be looking away from the left side. I was doing that too for a few seconds, but saw that they were going the same speed as I was. Awww feck, so I just looked up and right when I did, you'd just see a white guy sticking half of his body out in the window with a big grin in his face. It made me laugh so just waved back and smiled back at him. He was cute too, but it was a female driving so anyways....
Made it back home and called my cousin up and told her what the dilemma was. Spent a while on the phone with her, looking up other flights that I might be able to catch. We actually toyed with the idea of spending two nights in Tokyo at least, before flying to Manila. But thing is, I would not be able to stop by Los Angeles doing so. I've been to Japan and all but Mr HappySad isn't there. I just thought it'll be nice to finally meet him in person. I was in L.A. half a year ago but I was more afraid back then. What if I bore him? What am I gonna talk to him about? I just about froze thinking of hanging out with him. But I made a vow I'll go see him next time I'm in the area. Oh gah, I'm starting to sound like a stalker lol It's nothing like that. It just so happen that you encounter people online that you grow to admire, and care about. And I wanted to be able to say one day "Hey, I got to meet him in person" with a smile on my face.
I was just sitting in the computer, talking away with my cousin, looking at flights that were taking off for the West Coast one by one. At first, I was thinking of just waiting it out til Monday. Called Robert up briefly and told him the situation since he was expecting me. He said he wouldn't mind if I end up staying an extra day or two and just text him with whatever plan I came up with. So went upstairs and packed up some things. I really didn't wanna bring a suitcase around so grabbed pretty much a carry on and packed my things. Just minimum, two pair of jeans, slacks, tee, shirts, just about three at the max. Well I was looking at some Airtran flights that were leaving at an airport nearby, and saw one for leaving around 0530, and arriving at LAX right about noon. I was actually gonna try to get some sleep, but this whole affair was making me antsy so 2 am came and there I was still debating whether to fly out that morning or not. 3 am rolls around and saw that the Airtran flight is still there. So I went on and continued packing just in case I wanted to catch that one. I checked once more and it's now gone on their website.. Grrreat, now you'll have to wait Dee.
I looked up their number and gave them a call, asking if they still had flights for the plane that leaves in 2 hrs. The lady said they still have three seats, so eventhough it said that you were supposed to check in 120 mins before flight, I thought ahh heck, I'll probably just be bored sitting around the house all day so might as well be in LA. So finally zipped up my suitcase and the backpack, running around the house making sure I didn't forget anything. Hopped right on the shower, called the cab company before I put on some clothes, so it'll be waiting by the time I got dressed. So was all set, excited and nervous since I wasn't even sure there'd be seats left by the time I got to the airport. The taxi got there, and eventhough it was just a 10-min drive or so to the airport, it felt too long that I wanted to smack him and tell him to hurry up. Sheeeshh, what are you taking your sweet ass time for!
We finally got to the airport and had to fall in line. Oh oh, there might not be any seats left. But I got to the counter, and the woman said that yea, I can still get on the flight leaving in 30 mins. So paid and checked my bags in and walked towards the gate all smiling. Probably looking a bit silly with a big grin on my face, walking by myself. Hey I was happy :D So sent Rob a text saying I was gonna be in LA right about noon. Kinda was worried I was gonna be a bother, but nah, didn't feel like I was at all when I finally got there. (I think!)
I got nervous a little bit, but it all went away when we were driving up to WeHo. I was just thinking Wowww, I'm really here sitting next to Robert. Yeah, I sorta was like a starstruck fan. He talked about our little adventure here. Like he mentioned, we went to a French Restaurant and walked around Melrose Ave. That was the first one place I've gone to that mostly catered to the gay community. It's nice seeing a mixture of people though. Family on one end, gay couple on the other. I even saw a guy in a revealing denim hot pants ala-Kylie. I liked Melrose Ave a lot, but was holding back a bit before I go off on a shopping spree without even having left the country yet. It was nice to just be able to walk around like that, just checking stores out, or just watching people go about doing their own thing. I got to have my first Jamba Juice shake ever too. Rob probably had a feeling I liked this one shirt at a clothing store. I've seen this tee a year or two ago when I stumbled upon Cool Hunting while idly surfing at work. Kinda liked it but it was already sold out when I looked so kinda forgot about it, until I saw it again here in L.A. Debating whether to really get it or not, but we passed by the place on the way to the car so ended up buying the t-shirt. This guy is wearing it in a picture. I didn't think it was suitable for a wake but the family made him change his tee after flying in with a bright red tee which they thought wasn't apppropriate.
So after walking around Melrose, we headed back to their house where I got to meet Alec. It was during that time where I really got nervous. I wanted to get off the car hehe But Alec was such a darling. Robert introduced us and I reached out my hand but Alec stepped forward and gave me a hug. That was really neat. It was silly of me being reticent even for a second. These were two genuinely great guys I was around with. It's fun just hanging around them , with their joking around and all, I pretty much was laughing most of the time. This helped to keep me smiling even after flying to Manila. Thank you guys..
Well after my last post, I was thinking that everything would be set come that Monday. Fly out to LA, spend the night there, and then head down to the Philippines. But that all changed when I got a phone call Saturday afternoon when the booking agency left a voicemail saying that my reservation has been cancelled and I won't be getting on the plane, AT ALL. Philippine Airlines apparently only issues paper tickets, and the lady that called said she has my tickets right in her hand back in California, with not enough time to ship it to me. She said I can fly out Wednesday.
I was at the outlet mall when they called, since I thought about picking up some things for the family, well after I get a backpack that is. I've been meaning to get one for years, and never got around to it for some reason. I called them right when I heard the message, five minutes after they called, but they didn't pick up. So drove right back to the house trying to figure out what to do. That is after encountering someone in the road who had exactly the same car. Oh darn, they'll probably try to race me since when I saw them in the rear view mirror, they were gonna switch lanes to pass me. So they got on the faster lane, knowing that they did, I started fiddling with nothing in the passenger seat, so I'd be looking away from the left side. I was doing that too for a few seconds, but saw that they were going the same speed as I was. Awww feck, so I just looked up and right when I did, you'd just see a white guy sticking half of his body out in the window with a big grin in his face. It made me laugh so just waved back and smiled back at him. He was cute too, but it was a female driving so anyways....
Made it back home and called my cousin up and told her what the dilemma was. Spent a while on the phone with her, looking up other flights that I might be able to catch. We actually toyed with the idea of spending two nights in Tokyo at least, before flying to Manila. But thing is, I would not be able to stop by Los Angeles doing so. I've been to Japan and all but Mr HappySad isn't there. I just thought it'll be nice to finally meet him in person. I was in L.A. half a year ago but I was more afraid back then. What if I bore him? What am I gonna talk to him about? I just about froze thinking of hanging out with him. But I made a vow I'll go see him next time I'm in the area. Oh gah, I'm starting to sound like a stalker lol It's nothing like that. It just so happen that you encounter people online that you grow to admire, and care about. And I wanted to be able to say one day "Hey, I got to meet him in person" with a smile on my face.
I was just sitting in the computer, talking away with my cousin, looking at flights that were taking off for the West Coast one by one. At first, I was thinking of just waiting it out til Monday. Called Robert up briefly and told him the situation since he was expecting me. He said he wouldn't mind if I end up staying an extra day or two and just text him with whatever plan I came up with. So went upstairs and packed up some things. I really didn't wanna bring a suitcase around so grabbed pretty much a carry on and packed my things. Just minimum, two pair of jeans, slacks, tee, shirts, just about three at the max. Well I was looking at some Airtran flights that were leaving at an airport nearby, and saw one for leaving around 0530, and arriving at LAX right about noon. I was actually gonna try to get some sleep, but this whole affair was making me antsy so 2 am came and there I was still debating whether to fly out that morning or not. 3 am rolls around and saw that the Airtran flight is still there. So I went on and continued packing just in case I wanted to catch that one. I checked once more and it's now gone on their website.. Grrreat, now you'll have to wait Dee.
I looked up their number and gave them a call, asking if they still had flights for the plane that leaves in 2 hrs. The lady said they still have three seats, so eventhough it said that you were supposed to check in 120 mins before flight, I thought ahh heck, I'll probably just be bored sitting around the house all day so might as well be in LA. So finally zipped up my suitcase and the backpack, running around the house making sure I didn't forget anything. Hopped right on the shower, called the cab company before I put on some clothes, so it'll be waiting by the time I got dressed. So was all set, excited and nervous since I wasn't even sure there'd be seats left by the time I got to the airport. The taxi got there, and eventhough it was just a 10-min drive or so to the airport, it felt too long that I wanted to smack him and tell him to hurry up. Sheeeshh, what are you taking your sweet ass time for!
We finally got to the airport and had to fall in line. Oh oh, there might not be any seats left. But I got to the counter, and the woman said that yea, I can still get on the flight leaving in 30 mins. So paid and checked my bags in and walked towards the gate all smiling. Probably looking a bit silly with a big grin on my face, walking by myself. Hey I was happy :D So sent Rob a text saying I was gonna be in LA right about noon. Kinda was worried I was gonna be a bother, but nah, didn't feel like I was at all when I finally got there. (I think!)
I got nervous a little bit, but it all went away when we were driving up to WeHo. I was just thinking Wowww, I'm really here sitting next to Robert. Yeah, I sorta was like a starstruck fan. He talked about our little adventure here. Like he mentioned, we went to a French Restaurant and walked around Melrose Ave. That was the first one place I've gone to that mostly catered to the gay community. It's nice seeing a mixture of people though. Family on one end, gay couple on the other. I even saw a guy in a revealing denim hot pants ala-Kylie. I liked Melrose Ave a lot, but was holding back a bit before I go off on a shopping spree without even having left the country yet. It was nice to just be able to walk around like that, just checking stores out, or just watching people go about doing their own thing. I got to have my first Jamba Juice shake ever too. Rob probably had a feeling I liked this one shirt at a clothing store. I've seen this tee a year or two ago when I stumbled upon Cool Hunting while idly surfing at work. Kinda liked it but it was already sold out when I looked so kinda forgot about it, until I saw it again here in L.A. Debating whether to really get it or not, but we passed by the place on the way to the car so ended up buying the t-shirt. This guy is wearing it in a picture. I didn't think it was suitable for a wake but the family made him change his tee after flying in with a bright red tee which they thought wasn't apppropriate.
So after walking around Melrose, we headed back to their house where I got to meet Alec. It was during that time where I really got nervous. I wanted to get off the car hehe But Alec was such a darling. Robert introduced us and I reached out my hand but Alec stepped forward and gave me a hug. That was really neat. It was silly of me being reticent even for a second. These were two genuinely great guys I was around with. It's fun just hanging around them , with their joking around and all, I pretty much was laughing most of the time. This helped to keep me smiling even after flying to Manila. Thank you guys..
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Found
I went to a Found Magazine event with a friend back in May and had a really great time. Here's what they sent as their five all time favorites under 20 words. Ain't the second one just sweet!!
*Am back stateside and will update when I get back to VA. I'm sorta home now but will tell more later. Take care you guys..
Lil' Jim
I'm in Cyotie (cross street) getin WASTED! NAAAA! I'm callin you
cuz it's 1:00
SEAN
-- FOUND by Sue Eggen, Pittsburgh PA
* *
If you decide that you love me anytime today, please call me
-- FOUND by Anna Caramanna, Phoenix AZ
* *
I took some ho's
to get some burritos
-- FOUND by Drew Maran, San Jose CA
* *
more buns
more cups
less lies
-- a note FOUND by Danielle Meyer, San Francisco CA
* *
CHX RAMEN NOODLS
CHX RAMEN NOODLS
CHX RAMEN NOODLS
CHX RAMEN NOODLS
CHX RAMEN NOODLS
CHX RAMEN NOODLS
12-PAK LUBR CNDOMS
-- a receipt FOUND by D. Tucker in Ann Arbor MI
*Am back stateside and will update when I get back to VA. I'm sorta home now but will tell more later. Take care you guys..
Friday, June 2, 2006
So I'd be leaving...
Well everything's set and me and my cousin will be flying out this Tuesday for Manila. She wanted to catch the same flight, and good thing we found one where we can fly together considering she's leaving from Colorado while I, from Virginia on the other hand. We're finally good to go though we were having second thoughts here and there about coming.
I had to let the people at work know that I'm gonna be taking an emergency leave. At first, had a bit of an issue trying to get a plane ticket and my boss sort of, let the higher ups know what was going on. I didn't realize what was going on behind the scenes, but come to find out, they were actually gonna cover the plane ticket. Thing is, it would have to only be with Northwest and when I stopped by to check for any flights I could take, the earliest one they had was on the 12th. I really didn't want to get a flight with them either, since I'd have to fly directly to Manila from Detroit. With going commercial, I'm gonna be able to spend a night or so in California which is just what's going to be happening. I'll stay one night in LA, then wait for my cousin to come in Tuesday and fly the same day. On my way back, will be making a stop in San Francisco for a few days.
I really wasn't considering stopping at my dad's but my stepmom's voicemail kinda made me want to go see them now. Ended up crying a bit before I went to bed just listening to her message. I WAS gonna try to get some sleep. However, I had to come by work to sign documents saying I'll be going on emergency leave etc etc Figured ok, I'll just have to sign and go right back home and sleep. But that wasn't the case. Ended up staying around for three more hours trying to figure out a game plan for my leaving. I was really surprised they were gonna cover the cost of the trip, well parts of it at least. What ended up happening is I pay out of pocket and will get parts of it reimbursed when I get back. If they did, great, if not I'll live. I really wasn't expecting that from them, but it was thoughtful of my squadron to do so. After getting that done, I just went back to the house and tried to get some sleep. But with it being two hours away from the start of my shift, I was a bit nervous about not waking up on time.
So now, 5 am and 36 hours since I've been awake, it was taking a bit of a toll. I got to take a nap for a bit in the conference room. Before that though, I was actually taking care of customer requests on our inbox. One of them was from a lady who needs one of her users to have permission to a mailbox. I did give him permission, and wrote back to her saying it's been completed. I didn't know how lack of sleep can really do, until I saw what I sent to her:
He's been given permission f it. Watched y ou struggle oldie.. there's :P
I can't even imagine what her reaction would be seeing something like that. Just laugh it off, or tell on me.
So will be packing up later on today after waking up from my much needed sleep. Still debating whether to get a backpack since the luggage that I'm thinking of getting is just about the size flight attendants use. I'll be pretty much gone for two weeks, making stops in Cali to and fro. Doubt I'd get to go to Castro and all hehe, but oh well. I'd live. I don't think my mom works in the financial district any longer so really no excuse to be leaving with her in the morning and wander around until she gets out in the afternoon. I'll be staying with them only for three days, and just went on a little panic mode right now wondering why I'm stopping in the bay area after all.. Hmmm
Have a good weekend!
I had to let the people at work know that I'm gonna be taking an emergency leave. At first, had a bit of an issue trying to get a plane ticket and my boss sort of, let the higher ups know what was going on. I didn't realize what was going on behind the scenes, but come to find out, they were actually gonna cover the plane ticket. Thing is, it would have to only be with Northwest and when I stopped by to check for any flights I could take, the earliest one they had was on the 12th. I really didn't want to get a flight with them either, since I'd have to fly directly to Manila from Detroit. With going commercial, I'm gonna be able to spend a night or so in California which is just what's going to be happening. I'll stay one night in LA, then wait for my cousin to come in Tuesday and fly the same day. On my way back, will be making a stop in San Francisco for a few days.
I really wasn't considering stopping at my dad's but my stepmom's voicemail kinda made me want to go see them now. Ended up crying a bit before I went to bed just listening to her message. I WAS gonna try to get some sleep. However, I had to come by work to sign documents saying I'll be going on emergency leave etc etc Figured ok, I'll just have to sign and go right back home and sleep. But that wasn't the case. Ended up staying around for three more hours trying to figure out a game plan for my leaving. I was really surprised they were gonna cover the cost of the trip, well parts of it at least. What ended up happening is I pay out of pocket and will get parts of it reimbursed when I get back. If they did, great, if not I'll live. I really wasn't expecting that from them, but it was thoughtful of my squadron to do so. After getting that done, I just went back to the house and tried to get some sleep. But with it being two hours away from the start of my shift, I was a bit nervous about not waking up on time.
So now, 5 am and 36 hours since I've been awake, it was taking a bit of a toll. I got to take a nap for a bit in the conference room. Before that though, I was actually taking care of customer requests on our inbox. One of them was from a lady who needs one of her users to have permission to a mailbox. I did give him permission, and wrote back to her saying it's been completed. I didn't know how lack of sleep can really do, until I saw what I sent to her:
He's been given permission f it. Watched y ou struggle oldie.. there's :P
I can't even imagine what her reaction would be seeing something like that. Just laugh it off, or tell on me.
So will be packing up later on today after waking up from my much needed sleep. Still debating whether to get a backpack since the luggage that I'm thinking of getting is just about the size flight attendants use. I'll be pretty much gone for two weeks, making stops in Cali to and fro. Doubt I'd get to go to Castro and all hehe, but oh well. I'd live. I don't think my mom works in the financial district any longer so really no excuse to be leaving with her in the morning and wander around until she gets out in the afternoon. I'll be staying with them only for three days, and just went on a little panic mode right now wondering why I'm stopping in the bay area after all.. Hmmm
Have a good weekend!
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
One day they're here...
Might be a bit of a downer to some, sorry...
Got a phone call around 8 am, but didn't get to pick my cell up until after the caller hang up. Waited for a voicemail, and there it was. Message from my aunt saying my grandfather just passed away this evening (morning for the U.S, night time in the Philippines) Tried calling her back but I realized they had their phone number changed just recently.
So went ahead and called my grandma's cell and my cousin picked up, saying that my Tatay (it's actually Lolo and Lola for grandparents, but I call mine Nanay and Tatay which equivalents Mom and Dad) died. I just started crying while she went yelled out for my mom since I was on the phone. We were talking and was quite surprised that she was calm, and didn't start sobbing at all. She's the drama queen of the family, well crier would more describe her, so that's quite something to listen to her tell me what happened and not cry. I felt like a child again when she told me not to cry anymore, it's his time and it was probably for the best so that he wouldn't suffer any longer. It really was a shock since the doctor said that he had about 3-6 months at least and yet, it happened not even a month later. She let a distant relative of ours talk to me for a bit, though I kinda chuckled listening to him. He KNOWS that I spoke Tagalog and has even met me in person before, but yet there he was English spokening asking if I'd go home since my Tatay's dead. I haven't actually considered going home at this point.
So hang up the phone with my mom, and texted my cousin asking her if she's heard.. "heard what?' so just went ahead and called her and explained that I got a voicemail and everything saying Tatay's dead. She said no, she didn't know yet but will go ahead and check if her mom knows. She called back saying the line was busy so my Tita Akang (in Denmark) is probably talking to her by now. So went ahead and called my other aunt, Tita Marrissa (in Norway). She picked up and just started crying when she knew that it was me calling. I was laying when I called, but sat straight up listening to her 'Couldn't he have waited until the weekend!!' "I told him we'll be there soon enough!' 'Dee, he's gone!!' Those were pretty much the words that was coming from her. She said she just got done talking to Tita Akang which was screaming, wailing seems more fitting, after learning of my grandfather's death. Being told those things are just what broke my heart. It didn't hit me completely until after this conversation. My uncle got their flight scheduled changed so they'll be flying out tomorrow instead of this Saturday.
She mentioned she hasn't spoken to my Aunt Fely (in Florida) so went ahead to do a three-way. It appeared she knows about it already since her first words were "Dee, patay na si Tatay." (Dee, Tatay's dead) I told her that my other Aunt was on the line too, so sat the phone down and let them talk for a bit. The earliest my Aunt Fely could leave was on Monday, and they won't arrive til Wednesday so that's gonna be one loooong flight. I hope they can have it changed and book an earlier one. My cousin started crying so Aunt Fely told my Tita to go ahead and tend to the kid so did just that, and they said their goodbyes to each other, and to me.
I was chatting with my friend Caleb too, and ended up telling him what happened. It was a bit odd saying this kind of things through IM's so talked to him on Skype. Had to talk to someone since I just didn't wanna bottle it in. He's a good friend, we started talking about other things so that made me smile and laught at least. I mentioned that I was supposed to go have lunch with somebody today, and not so sure if I'd still want to go. He said it might do me good, take my mind off of things even for a bit. So just didn't cancel the lunch meeting. It ended up not materializing though since the guy wanted to just grab some food and bring it by my place. I said I'd prefer meeting him outside today, but guess he didn't want that. Well, he's been over once but good thing he forgot where I live haha
So I was still skyping with Caleb, but had to get off to answer my cell since somebody was calling which was probably my aunt. And sure enough, it was my Tita Akang. She was joking, and everything since she said, she didn't want to be gloomy talking to me. She's trying, though she mentioned she about smashed her head in the kitchen table after she got the text message about this. That she dropped the phone right after and blacked out for a bit. I thought it was kinda stupid texting something of that nature to people, but it just is waayy cheaper than calling long distance.. from the Philippines at least, to the rest of the world. I really thought that was funny, picturing her smashing her head. That made me laugh since that's just what she was trying to do. She's gonna be flying out either this weekend also, or come Monday to go back home as well. She asked if I'd be going too but told her I'm not quite sure yet. I might have to check with the chain of command if I could go without doing all the paperwork that comes along with it. Normally, for servicemembers to go, you have to submit all this documents that has your information. Who you'll be going with, where you're gonnabe staying, the reason of the visit, the current terrorist threat level, amongst other things. The plane ticket cost too.. It's a little bit over a month's salary grrreat. Everybody's been saying they'd understand if me and my cousin end up not going (She's in the Air Force at the moment too) but I know they'd prefer otherwise. It'll be a bit of a reunion as well, since some haven't seen each other since 1997. This will be the first time all the siblings will get together so that'll be really nice, despite of it being an unfortunate time. Seems some of them are handling it well, saying it was probably for the best. I thought heh, they're grown, they'd manage without me having to come. Now, I wouldn't want more than anything but to just be there for them.
Got a phone call around 8 am, but didn't get to pick my cell up until after the caller hang up. Waited for a voicemail, and there it was. Message from my aunt saying my grandfather just passed away this evening (morning for the U.S, night time in the Philippines) Tried calling her back but I realized they had their phone number changed just recently.
So went ahead and called my grandma's cell and my cousin picked up, saying that my Tatay (it's actually Lolo and Lola for grandparents, but I call mine Nanay and Tatay which equivalents Mom and Dad) died. I just started crying while she went yelled out for my mom since I was on the phone. We were talking and was quite surprised that she was calm, and didn't start sobbing at all. She's the drama queen of the family, well crier would more describe her, so that's quite something to listen to her tell me what happened and not cry. I felt like a child again when she told me not to cry anymore, it's his time and it was probably for the best so that he wouldn't suffer any longer. It really was a shock since the doctor said that he had about 3-6 months at least and yet, it happened not even a month later. She let a distant relative of ours talk to me for a bit, though I kinda chuckled listening to him. He KNOWS that I spoke Tagalog and has even met me in person before, but yet there he was English spokening asking if I'd go home since my Tatay's dead. I haven't actually considered going home at this point.
So hang up the phone with my mom, and texted my cousin asking her if she's heard.. "heard what?' so just went ahead and called her and explained that I got a voicemail and everything saying Tatay's dead. She said no, she didn't know yet but will go ahead and check if her mom knows. She called back saying the line was busy so my Tita Akang (in Denmark) is probably talking to her by now. So went ahead and called my other aunt, Tita Marrissa (in Norway). She picked up and just started crying when she knew that it was me calling. I was laying when I called, but sat straight up listening to her 'Couldn't he have waited until the weekend!!' "I told him we'll be there soon enough!' 'Dee, he's gone!!' Those were pretty much the words that was coming from her. She said she just got done talking to Tita Akang which was screaming, wailing seems more fitting, after learning of my grandfather's death. Being told those things are just what broke my heart. It didn't hit me completely until after this conversation. My uncle got their flight scheduled changed so they'll be flying out tomorrow instead of this Saturday.
She mentioned she hasn't spoken to my Aunt Fely (in Florida) so went ahead to do a three-way. It appeared she knows about it already since her first words were "Dee, patay na si Tatay." (Dee, Tatay's dead) I told her that my other Aunt was on the line too, so sat the phone down and let them talk for a bit. The earliest my Aunt Fely could leave was on Monday, and they won't arrive til Wednesday so that's gonna be one loooong flight. I hope they can have it changed and book an earlier one. My cousin started crying so Aunt Fely told my Tita to go ahead and tend to the kid so did just that, and they said their goodbyes to each other, and to me.
I was chatting with my friend Caleb too, and ended up telling him what happened. It was a bit odd saying this kind of things through IM's so talked to him on Skype. Had to talk to someone since I just didn't wanna bottle it in. He's a good friend, we started talking about other things so that made me smile and laught at least. I mentioned that I was supposed to go have lunch with somebody today, and not so sure if I'd still want to go. He said it might do me good, take my mind off of things even for a bit. So just didn't cancel the lunch meeting. It ended up not materializing though since the guy wanted to just grab some food and bring it by my place. I said I'd prefer meeting him outside today, but guess he didn't want that. Well, he's been over once but good thing he forgot where I live haha
So I was still skyping with Caleb, but had to get off to answer my cell since somebody was calling which was probably my aunt. And sure enough, it was my Tita Akang. She was joking, and everything since she said, she didn't want to be gloomy talking to me. She's trying, though she mentioned she about smashed her head in the kitchen table after she got the text message about this. That she dropped the phone right after and blacked out for a bit. I thought it was kinda stupid texting something of that nature to people, but it just is waayy cheaper than calling long distance.. from the Philippines at least, to the rest of the world. I really thought that was funny, picturing her smashing her head. That made me laugh since that's just what she was trying to do. She's gonna be flying out either this weekend also, or come Monday to go back home as well. She asked if I'd be going too but told her I'm not quite sure yet. I might have to check with the chain of command if I could go without doing all the paperwork that comes along with it. Normally, for servicemembers to go, you have to submit all this documents that has your information. Who you'll be going with, where you're gonnabe staying, the reason of the visit, the current terrorist threat level, amongst other things. The plane ticket cost too.. It's a little bit over a month's salary grrreat. Everybody's been saying they'd understand if me and my cousin end up not going (She's in the Air Force at the moment too) but I know they'd prefer otherwise. It'll be a bit of a reunion as well, since some haven't seen each other since 1997. This will be the first time all the siblings will get together so that'll be really nice, despite of it being an unfortunate time. Seems some of them are handling it well, saying it was probably for the best. I thought heh, they're grown, they'd manage without me having to come. Now, I wouldn't want more than anything but to just be there for them.
Monday, May 29, 2006
Damn it
Someone was gonna move in temporarily in the spare room that I have. We've agreed already, but now he's probably gonna try to move some place else. My car got towed on our way back from showing him around, and now he went to check out some other place. The towing fee was freaking $95!!!!! I was trying to be nice but I guess that doesn't work. My neighbor could have tried finding out who was in their spot, and ask me to move but nope, they just went ahead and called it in anyways. Fuckers.. From now on, there's no more Mr Nice Guy. I'll call in E-V-E-R-Y-T-I-M-E somebody else is in my spots Assholes!!!
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Everybody's changing....
That's what I thought, but maybe it's me. Read this
A friend mentioned to do something good for your mom, no matter wherever she is. So did just that, though the most I can do is pick up the phone and call. I really didn't speak to her for long since I was just getting annoyed by her questions. How's this or that friend doing..Have you had dinner yet. Have you spoken to so and so lately, How's work, typical conversations between mother and son. I really was trying to be nice, just answering nicely to every questions, but seriously hearing those questions about drove me nuts. I'm not sure what's been happening, but there's just this whole shift of emotions I've been dealing with lately. I have to let this all out somehow, so hence here I am writing about this, writing as I go along with whatever comes to mind.
My mom was in my grandpa's house, so with that, my grandma, so is my aunt, my cousin and everybody else will be there. I spoke to them real briefly, the usual how are you, i'm fine, happy mother's day. Then called another aunt later on the day (well morning since Europe's ahead) and for a sec, I got close to being happy about calling them up, like I usually have been on different occasions. Guess last weekend wasn't one of those days. I called two other aunts, and was sorta glad it was the machine that picked up and with the last one, I think she was in a chatty mood but I wasn't so five minutes through, told her I'll go get some sleep since I'm tired now yawn. She probably felt that I was lying (which I was) since she hasn't called ever since. We're just starting to know each other. I'm sure it'll be real nice to develop a relationship with the other side of the family, but at times, I'm not sure if I'd be up for it. On my good days, I get all excited about that but get apathetic on some days and just think why even bother, things are just fine the way they are.
After I got to meet my dad's family the first time, it made me happy. It was one of those things that I can say I was dreaming of my whole life, what it was like to meet them, to actually interact in person, more than just letters and phone calls. I remember crying about it growing up, wondering if they even loved me, and if they actually cared that I existed somewhere in the world. Apparently they did, so I guess that's something though they never were there to back the claim up. I suppose I have conditions on how to be loved, but who doesn't really? I try not to but it's a bit hard. I can't say I love someone and just leave it at that. Not ever calling or writing them. I've gotten better at it, but it was hard, not picking up the phone, not calling my friends to see how they're doing. It happens though so guess that it's just part of life. I'm getting to a point where I'm okay with it, finally after being close to 23.
Getting back to last week, I had to take a promotion test on Monday eventhough I was off from work. It lasted for about 3 1/2 hours but it was kinda good in a sense since I got to talk to some guy I sorta knew, but not really. To learn about our job as a 3C... we have to go to what is called technical school which lasts for twelve weeks down at Biloxi, Mississippi. There's usually new batch of people coming in every week and I found out I arrived after he did two weeks prior. He looked familiar but I wasn't able to pinpoint from where so I just didn't say anything, but I guess that's good he initiated the conversation. It's not like we'll be hanging out or anything because of it, he just got tied down, errr married, two/three months ago and work in a different shop so yea...that was that.
I had an actual weekend off for a change so that was nice though I ended up not getting to come over to my friend's house since I slept through Friday night. I tried staying up during the day, but only managed 'til about 2 pm. So fell asleep, set the alarm for 6 pm, but didn't wake up til 3 am the next morning. Saturday,
I hang out with S (oh well, I'm naming names okay) over the weekend and he showed me around Williamsburg. That was the first time I actually did something touristy here in Virginia since arriving here months ago. I've been too lazy to go anywhere, unlike before where I got on the train pretty much every weekend back in Japan. I took some pictures as you'll see on that link so, I probably will be found. I actually put a picture, but got scared so took it down, put it up again, then down but here for those some who hasn't seen me. That pic was taken this time around last year, morning after spending the night out and about, staying at a capsule hotel which oughtta be tried at least once (I stayed twice)
Today (well Tuesday morning) my Speech class started and it's been good so far. I was having second thoughts about taking a class since we're still working 12 hrs, and I am on the night shift. So after getting off, I'd have to stay up for about three more hours. It's only for eight weeks so I should manage. The teacher's pretty funny, so that should help make the summer session go by. We actually got tricked this morning. The teacher was going to be a bit late since he got help up in traffic so 0830 rolls, and some guy walked in and mentioned that he's gonna be our new teacher, calling himself with a Yugoslavian name and everything. He went on, about how the previous teacher hasn't been performing up to the school's standards, etc etc and so him, being part of the board, decided it'll be best to let go of our teacher for good. It was a bit of a shock. He went on and told us his expectations for us students, and how he really wants us to do real good in learning, and so we'll be doing 16-18 speeches during the 8-week run of the class. You can just hear the sigh throughout the students, and we were probably thinking the same thing.. WHAT DID I GET MYSELF INTO!!!? I know I was, I was just like shit, why'd I even bother taking this class. Mannn, it's supposed to be easy, it's the summer session!!!
He told us a bit of his background, and it wasn't until he later let us on the fact that he's really our teacher, and just messing around the whole time. He's actually Brit, though he's been living in the US for quite sometime now. He's taught classes back in California as well. I just sat there amazed when he told us his background and that he has four degrees, four effing degrees!! That's awesome... I just need to figure out how he went about getting his. Working full time, and taking night classes? Going to school full time or what. So first day of class was good so far. I just need to come up with two topics by Thursday for an informative speech we'd have to give soon. Was thinking of doing Arrested Development and don't know what else yet. Guess I'll sleep on it and hopefully come up with something by tonight.
A friend mentioned to do something good for your mom, no matter wherever she is. So did just that, though the most I can do is pick up the phone and call. I really didn't speak to her for long since I was just getting annoyed by her questions. How's this or that friend doing..Have you had dinner yet. Have you spoken to so and so lately, How's work, typical conversations between mother and son. I really was trying to be nice, just answering nicely to every questions, but seriously hearing those questions about drove me nuts. I'm not sure what's been happening, but there's just this whole shift of emotions I've been dealing with lately. I have to let this all out somehow, so hence here I am writing about this, writing as I go along with whatever comes to mind.
My mom was in my grandpa's house, so with that, my grandma, so is my aunt, my cousin and everybody else will be there. I spoke to them real briefly, the usual how are you, i'm fine, happy mother's day. Then called another aunt later on the day (well morning since Europe's ahead) and for a sec, I got close to being happy about calling them up, like I usually have been on different occasions. Guess last weekend wasn't one of those days. I called two other aunts, and was sorta glad it was the machine that picked up and with the last one, I think she was in a chatty mood but I wasn't so five minutes through, told her I'll go get some sleep since I'm tired now yawn. She probably felt that I was lying (which I was) since she hasn't called ever since. We're just starting to know each other. I'm sure it'll be real nice to develop a relationship with the other side of the family, but at times, I'm not sure if I'd be up for it. On my good days, I get all excited about that but get apathetic on some days and just think why even bother, things are just fine the way they are.
After I got to meet my dad's family the first time, it made me happy. It was one of those things that I can say I was dreaming of my whole life, what it was like to meet them, to actually interact in person, more than just letters and phone calls. I remember crying about it growing up, wondering if they even loved me, and if they actually cared that I existed somewhere in the world. Apparently they did, so I guess that's something though they never were there to back the claim up. I suppose I have conditions on how to be loved, but who doesn't really? I try not to but it's a bit hard. I can't say I love someone and just leave it at that. Not ever calling or writing them. I've gotten better at it, but it was hard, not picking up the phone, not calling my friends to see how they're doing. It happens though so guess that it's just part of life. I'm getting to a point where I'm okay with it, finally after being close to 23.
Getting back to last week, I had to take a promotion test on Monday eventhough I was off from work. It lasted for about 3 1/2 hours but it was kinda good in a sense since I got to talk to some guy I sorta knew, but not really. To learn about our job as a 3C... we have to go to what is called technical school which lasts for twelve weeks down at Biloxi, Mississippi. There's usually new batch of people coming in every week and I found out I arrived after he did two weeks prior. He looked familiar but I wasn't able to pinpoint from where so I just didn't say anything, but I guess that's good he initiated the conversation. It's not like we'll be hanging out or anything because of it, he just got tied down, errr married, two/three months ago and work in a different shop so yea...that was that.
I had an actual weekend off for a change so that was nice though I ended up not getting to come over to my friend's house since I slept through Friday night. I tried staying up during the day, but only managed 'til about 2 pm. So fell asleep, set the alarm for 6 pm, but didn't wake up til 3 am the next morning. Saturday,
I hang out with S (oh well, I'm naming names okay) over the weekend and he showed me around Williamsburg. That was the first time I actually did something touristy here in Virginia since arriving here months ago. I've been too lazy to go anywhere, unlike before where I got on the train pretty much every weekend back in Japan. I took some pictures as you'll see on that link so, I probably will be found. I actually put a picture, but got scared so took it down, put it up again, then down but here for those some who hasn't seen me. That pic was taken this time around last year, morning after spending the night out and about, staying at a capsule hotel which oughtta be tried at least once (I stayed twice)
Today (well Tuesday morning) my Speech class started and it's been good so far. I was having second thoughts about taking a class since we're still working 12 hrs, and I am on the night shift. So after getting off, I'd have to stay up for about three more hours. It's only for eight weeks so I should manage. The teacher's pretty funny, so that should help make the summer session go by. We actually got tricked this morning. The teacher was going to be a bit late since he got help up in traffic so 0830 rolls, and some guy walked in and mentioned that he's gonna be our new teacher, calling himself with a Yugoslavian name and everything. He went on, about how the previous teacher hasn't been performing up to the school's standards, etc etc and so him, being part of the board, decided it'll be best to let go of our teacher for good. It was a bit of a shock. He went on and told us his expectations for us students, and how he really wants us to do real good in learning, and so we'll be doing 16-18 speeches during the 8-week run of the class. You can just hear the sigh throughout the students, and we were probably thinking the same thing.. WHAT DID I GET MYSELF INTO!!!? I know I was, I was just like shit, why'd I even bother taking this class. Mannn, it's supposed to be easy, it's the summer session!!!
He told us a bit of his background, and it wasn't until he later let us on the fact that he's really our teacher, and just messing around the whole time. He's actually Brit, though he's been living in the US for quite sometime now. He's taught classes back in California as well. I just sat there amazed when he told us his background and that he has four degrees, four effing degrees!! That's awesome... I just need to figure out how he went about getting his. Working full time, and taking night classes? Going to school full time or what. So first day of class was good so far. I just need to come up with two topics by Thursday for an informative speech we'd have to give soon. Was thinking of doing Arrested Development and don't know what else yet. Guess I'll sleep on it and hopefully come up with something by tonight.
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