In the movie Shrek 2, I remembered that this line was uttered: "Every princess wants to live happily ever after".
And every princess has a prince charming…
Hmm… it’s always a fairytale-influenced belief that "prince charmings" are the PERFECT guys. It’s always been part of every little girl’s fantasies to grow up into a princess, and eventually meet her destined prince.
Sadly, it’s not always the case.
WELCOME TO REALITY, BABY!
Sometimes, we, girls, try so hard to meet the RIGHT one. But we end up usually with the wrong one! And who’s to blame? No one.
I’m gonna share to you what I have read in the September 2004 issue of Candy magazine. It’s an article written by Gen Tiu, entitled "The Family Recipe for Prince Charming". Ok, here it goes:
"As we grow up, we come face to face with the fact that Prince Charming as we define him does not exist, and our search for such man may be in vain. The "perfect" guy, ironically, can never be perfect. In fact, he can have many irritating habits and flaws. Bottom line: no matter who that "perfect" guy is, it is best to STICK WITH REALITY when trying to figure him out and not the fantasy we had since we were eight years old."
So, how do we girls know if HE’S THE ONE?
According to her, the best and possibly most accurate place to look and picture out the guy in our dreams is right at our homes! Or even in one of those weekly get-togethers. In other words, we can picture out if the one we’re liking on is really worth it BY observing the boys who care about us (i.e. father, elder brother, cousin, grandpa) and seeing the good in them. These men (and young men!) have helped us mold into the girls we are now. Each of them has certain qualities that we may have once looked up to or may even unconsciously admire today!
THE MODELS
1. Daddy!
What I love about my dad is that he’s a hard-earner. Even though he’s tired, he always assures us of almost everything! He’s also responsible. He’s sincerely generous, too.
If he’s like dad… I can count on him because of the security that he has assured me. For me, relationships should be taken as long term. So, it’s big no-no for irresponsibility! If he’s like my dad, he can take care of me properly. He also knows his priorities and is aware on what to do next.
2. Elder Brother!
Though I’m the eldest, I know that elder brothers are protective, as what I have observed through my friends.
Brothers are really tough. But if we look hard enough, they’re good qualities will eventually surface! Older brothers are the ones who look out for their younger sisters and they make sure if they’re okay.
If he’s like an elder bro… it means he grew up with proper values since he holds his family with concern and respect. And I do think it’s a big plus since it would also make my parents happy. If he’s like an elder brother, I can be sure that I’m on his "top priority" list… he’ll treat me right.
3. My boy Cousin!
My cousins are really the wackiest and coolest people on earth!! I can purely be myself when I’m with them. We laugh together. We share the same jokes (we’ll even make fun of our parents and elders! Hahaha!!). Obviously, they’re fun to be with!
If he’s like my guy cousin… I can tell that he’s real because he’s fun to be with! He can be honest and brave with me because he’s natural and uninhibited. It’s nice because I will be certain that he has nothing to hide.
4. My Best Boy Bud!
He’s like a close friend with a little something extra! What I love about him is that he’s sensitive and considerate to me. That great sympathy he offers creates a deep connection between him and me. He’s my bestfriend! He can be my make-shift diary --- and he’s totally cool about it.
If he’s like my boy friend… I can put my trust in him, without doubts. I need someone who will be there for me no matter what.
Voila!!! Instant prince charming!
We all have different ideas on who should be "The One". Whoever he is, he should know his limitations and strong points. That is, he must know himself and his obligations first before getting to know the girl he’s liking. So you see, girls do not just consider affluence and beauty as bases for getting the "Prince Charming" title. It’s on the inside that counts. Always.
*Source : September2004 issue of candy magazine
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Soledad
It’s a Spanish word for "loneliness"…
ABOUT THE POEM
Honestly speaking, I never understood the poem maybe because it’s a different type. No words were formed, actually. Whoever that poet is, he must be crazy… JOKE! Well, I think that he/she IS REALLY LONELY. It’s evident through the style he used (and I don’t know what that style is! Sorry!). But the message stays clear… the author was in despair for being lonely.
LONELINESS…
I’m not the type of person who is extrovert. When I was in young, I never wanted to be mixed with everyone else! I don’t crave for attention, just like other people. I just want to be alone, though I’m not really a loner at school. Of course, I’ve got friends. But I prefer to do things on my own.
But as I grow up, I realize that I need to be socially active, at least. I mean, I need people, since they also need me! Haha… We’ll I guess, in this case, there should be an interaction between me and the whole world.
Still, it won’t change the real me… the introvert and shy girl.
But I don’t wanna be lonely. My family cares about me. My friends stay in touch with me. And I’m thankful for that. However, when the time comes that the ones I loved and cherished will be gone, I will really feel lonely… and that’s the last thing I want to happen in my life.
There are also times when I feel desolate.
One time, I was really weighed down by a certain problem. But my friends, whom I trust the most, weren’t there. It’s not their fault that they were not there to comfort me. Though, I feel sick to my guts. I felt that nobody cares about me. That’s stupidity… to be so dependent to them. But if that’s it, then I’m stupid. But I don’t hate them for that. In fact, I’m even grateful because they taught me how to stand on my own, without their help and support.
BACK TO THE POEM
I don’t really know what the author of that poem tries to convey. All I know is that he or she is awfully in solitude.
I hope he’s okay now…
Hey! Wait a second… he’s not lonely!! We aren’t lonely! You know why? Because God is with us!
ABOUT THE POEM
Honestly speaking, I never understood the poem maybe because it’s a different type. No words were formed, actually. Whoever that poet is, he must be crazy… JOKE! Well, I think that he/she IS REALLY LONELY. It’s evident through the style he used (and I don’t know what that style is! Sorry!). But the message stays clear… the author was in despair for being lonely.
LONELINESS…
I’m not the type of person who is extrovert. When I was in young, I never wanted to be mixed with everyone else! I don’t crave for attention, just like other people. I just want to be alone, though I’m not really a loner at school. Of course, I’ve got friends. But I prefer to do things on my own.
But as I grow up, I realize that I need to be socially active, at least. I mean, I need people, since they also need me! Haha… We’ll I guess, in this case, there should be an interaction between me and the whole world.
Still, it won’t change the real me… the introvert and shy girl.
But I don’t wanna be lonely. My family cares about me. My friends stay in touch with me. And I’m thankful for that. However, when the time comes that the ones I loved and cherished will be gone, I will really feel lonely… and that’s the last thing I want to happen in my life.
There are also times when I feel desolate.
One time, I was really weighed down by a certain problem. But my friends, whom I trust the most, weren’t there. It’s not their fault that they were not there to comfort me. Though, I feel sick to my guts. I felt that nobody cares about me. That’s stupidity… to be so dependent to them. But if that’s it, then I’m stupid. But I don’t hate them for that. In fact, I’m even grateful because they taught me how to stand on my own, without their help and support.
BACK TO THE POEM
I don’t really know what the author of that poem tries to convey. All I know is that he or she is awfully in solitude.
I hope he’s okay now…
Hey! Wait a second… he’s not lonely!! We aren’t lonely! You know why? Because God is with us!
Motion for Reconciliation
I was reminded of the time during the Pass & Review practice during the CWTS period. There was a bitter dispute between a good friend of mine, who is an officer, and my platoon mates, including me. It is because the officer who handled our platoon was somewhat harsh to us. To put it bluntly, he was inconsiderate since he didn’t care too much about our conditions. What trigged our anger was when he gave us 36 bummers for being lousy. And so my platoon mates became furious, and so as he (the officer). At the end of the period, there was a "hot battle" between the officer and us. The girls kept on wailing and complaining because their bodies where exhausted and aching. I was torn into two since the two parties who were fighting were both my friends. All I did was to comfort the girls in the platoon. I also got mad to the officer (and also a good friend of mine) because of what he did to us. But, I never held grudges, although I wanted to hit him because of it. However, I also pity him because at that time, he was ALONE. Though his girlfriend was there to calm him down, I felt his despair. To think, it was like him versus almost everyone of our batch mates. I could understand why everyone of us got mad to him. Everyone was blinded with fury and apprehension. Some of the girls even fainted because of that. The atmosphere at that time of the afternoon was awfully gloomy.
So you see, one wrong move could ruin such friendship.
I do think that at that time, everyone of us was feeling extremities of being sad, angry, or disappointed. So, we have to cool down, at least, just to ease the pain and to settle things later.
And, what’s next?
At some point, some of us believe that in forgiving people, we turn out to be "holy" or "spiritual". But there’s a more good reason why WE SHOULD forgive people. It’s not about the enemy’s sake, but for our own good, too.
According to Andrew Matthews, the author of New York’s bestseller book "Happiness in a Nutshell", when we don’t forgive people, WE RUIN OUR LIVES!
Now, here’s a vivid but brief explanation about this (courtesy of Mr. Matthews):
Let's say:
a) you are my boss and you give me the sack, or
b) you are my girl, and you run off with my buddy.
So I say, "I'll never forgive you for that!"
Who suffers? Not you!
I'm pacing the floor. I've got the knot in my stomach. I'm losing sleep. You are probably out partying!
Where do we get the idea that if WE don't forgive people, THEY suffer? It's nuts!
Recent studies at the Public Health Institute in California confirm that hostility and resentment tear down your immune system and double your risk of heart attack, cancer and even diabetes. Bitterness makes you sick!
To forgive someone, you don't have to agree with what they did. You just have to want your life to work.
In a Nutshell
Is it easy? Usually not. But you don't forgive people for their benefit. You do it for your benefit.
So you see, there’s more to life than to keep on whining, crying, complaining, blaming, arguing, and condemning people. And what hurts the most is when we hold grudges inside of us and then eventually never forgive the people who inflicted such pain on us. Though it’s not easy to forgive right away, I think it’s be better if we do… you know why? IT’S FOR OUR OWN GOOD! If we don’t forgive people, we make our lives miserable. And before we know it, we’re creating danger all along.
I’ve already forgiven my friend, who was the officer. I know he just made a wrong move, and I think he already suffered the consequences of what he did.
I hope you could also forgive the people like I do. Believe me, it’s a good feeling…
So you see, one wrong move could ruin such friendship.
I do think that at that time, everyone of us was feeling extremities of being sad, angry, or disappointed. So, we have to cool down, at least, just to ease the pain and to settle things later.
And, what’s next?
At some point, some of us believe that in forgiving people, we turn out to be "holy" or "spiritual". But there’s a more good reason why WE SHOULD forgive people. It’s not about the enemy’s sake, but for our own good, too.
According to Andrew Matthews, the author of New York’s bestseller book "Happiness in a Nutshell", when we don’t forgive people, WE RUIN OUR LIVES!
Now, here’s a vivid but brief explanation about this (courtesy of Mr. Matthews):
Let's say:
a) you are my boss and you give me the sack, or
b) you are my girl, and you run off with my buddy.
So I say, "I'll never forgive you for that!"
Who suffers? Not you!
I'm pacing the floor. I've got the knot in my stomach. I'm losing sleep. You are probably out partying!
Where do we get the idea that if WE don't forgive people, THEY suffer? It's nuts!
Recent studies at the Public Health Institute in California confirm that hostility and resentment tear down your immune system and double your risk of heart attack, cancer and even diabetes. Bitterness makes you sick!
To forgive someone, you don't have to agree with what they did. You just have to want your life to work.
In a Nutshell
Is it easy? Usually not. But you don't forgive people for their benefit. You do it for your benefit.
So you see, there’s more to life than to keep on whining, crying, complaining, blaming, arguing, and condemning people. And what hurts the most is when we hold grudges inside of us and then eventually never forgive the people who inflicted such pain on us. Though it’s not easy to forgive right away, I think it’s be better if we do… you know why? IT’S FOR OUR OWN GOOD! If we don’t forgive people, we make our lives miserable. And before we know it, we’re creating danger all along.
I’ve already forgiven my friend, who was the officer. I know he just made a wrong move, and I think he already suffered the consequences of what he did.
I hope you could also forgive the people like I do. Believe me, it’s a good feeling…
The Look
by Sara Teasdale
Strephon kissed me in the spring,
Robin in the fall,
But Colin only looked at me
And never kissed at all.
Strephon's kiss was lost in jest,
Robin's lost in play,
But the kiss in Colin's eyes
Haunts me night and day.
Ooh… someone’s got an arrière-pensée… it’s a French word meaning "hidden agenda". And it’s none other than Colin.
Strephon and Robin both showed affection to the girl, unlike Colin, who only looked at the girl. The look of Colin’s eyes was haunting, just as what the poem described. Could it be admiration?
In the last stanza of the poem suggest that the two boys in the poem, Strephon and Robin, were lost. But Colin stayed.
THE STORY
In my own point of view, I think the girl had many suitors, like Strephon and Robin. The two men were determined to show affection to the girl, but in different settings: Strephon on spring, and Robin in fall. But a young man named Colin, I think, was in love with the girl even before Robin and Strephon, though he never told the girl. Maybe because he never had the courage to do so.
The next stanza insinuates that the two men, Robin and Strephon didn’t stay that long in love with the girl. That is, they became lost and nowhere to be found by the girl. But still, Colin stayed. I do think that Colin was madly and deeply in-love with the girl, who was the object of fantasy by men like Strephon and Robin.
MEN LIKE THESE…
How do we, girls, tell if the man we choose is going to be patient and loving? We ask: is it for real? Forever? Promise? We can never tell… if we are blind…
There are men who have decent intentions to the girls they liked or loved, perhaps. But it’s certain that there are also men who don’t really care at all! They just court you for the sake that they want someone just for show! If these guys have had enough of you, then it’s gonna be sorry! Sorry for he doesn’t want you anymore. Sorry for he’s been sick of you already. Or maybe it’s just painfully SORRY for he no longer loves you…
It’s heartbreaking… but that’s the truth! Some men will leave the girls they thought they could spend their lives with.
But looking on the brighter side, there are also men who have profoundly showed us girls with great respect and dignity… these men are the ones with character. And these men are worthy to be called "lover". If we look at these type of men closely, we would be happier if we fall in love with them.
And showing love is not just through embraces, sweet and passionate love, expensive gifts, or kisses… one look of love is already a sign!
It’s much sweeter than anything else…
Strephon kissed me in the spring,
Robin in the fall,
But Colin only looked at me
And never kissed at all.
Strephon's kiss was lost in jest,
Robin's lost in play,
But the kiss in Colin's eyes
Haunts me night and day.
Ooh… someone’s got an arrière-pensée… it’s a French word meaning "hidden agenda". And it’s none other than Colin.
Strephon and Robin both showed affection to the girl, unlike Colin, who only looked at the girl. The look of Colin’s eyes was haunting, just as what the poem described. Could it be admiration?
In the last stanza of the poem suggest that the two boys in the poem, Strephon and Robin, were lost. But Colin stayed.
THE STORY
In my own point of view, I think the girl had many suitors, like Strephon and Robin. The two men were determined to show affection to the girl, but in different settings: Strephon on spring, and Robin in fall. But a young man named Colin, I think, was in love with the girl even before Robin and Strephon, though he never told the girl. Maybe because he never had the courage to do so.
The next stanza insinuates that the two men, Robin and Strephon didn’t stay that long in love with the girl. That is, they became lost and nowhere to be found by the girl. But still, Colin stayed. I do think that Colin was madly and deeply in-love with the girl, who was the object of fantasy by men like Strephon and Robin.
MEN LIKE THESE…
How do we, girls, tell if the man we choose is going to be patient and loving? We ask: is it for real? Forever? Promise? We can never tell… if we are blind…
There are men who have decent intentions to the girls they liked or loved, perhaps. But it’s certain that there are also men who don’t really care at all! They just court you for the sake that they want someone just for show! If these guys have had enough of you, then it’s gonna be sorry! Sorry for he doesn’t want you anymore. Sorry for he’s been sick of you already. Or maybe it’s just painfully SORRY for he no longer loves you…
It’s heartbreaking… but that’s the truth! Some men will leave the girls they thought they could spend their lives with.
But looking on the brighter side, there are also men who have profoundly showed us girls with great respect and dignity… these men are the ones with character. And these men are worthy to be called "lover". If we look at these type of men closely, we would be happier if we fall in love with them.
And showing love is not just through embraces, sweet and passionate love, expensive gifts, or kisses… one look of love is already a sign!
It’s much sweeter than anything else…
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Cyberfair Article: Casa Gorordo
One of the finest historical sites in the Queen City of the South is the mid-19th century ancestral house bought by Juan Isidro Gorordo in 1863. Situated along Lopez Jaena Street and very near the Heritage of Cebu monument in Pari-an district, Casa Gorordo (literally, "Gorordo House"), as it is called, represents the period's typical Cebuano architectural style characterized by the prominent use of rock and stone for the lower story and wood for the upper story, as well as the presence of ventanillas and sliding capiz windows. The house itself sits on a 1,410-square-meter parcel of land and occupies about one-fourth of the total area.
It is a low two-story house. The lower floor was intended for a bodega for corn and sugar from the Gorordo farmlands, a garage, and a workplace where usually most of the housework is done. Before entering the upper floor, beside the stairs, is a waiting room for guests who offered gifts (mostly chicken and rice for the family).
The elegance of the house is mostly showcased on the upper floor. The ceilings are intricately designed and show strong European influence, although some Filipino elements also appear. The upper floor consists of the master's bedroom, separate rooms for boys and girls, a prayer room, the kitchen, the dining room, and the comfort room.
The Gorordo home allows one a view of Cebuano culture during the period. For example, in the hallway, there is a place exclusive for courting sessions. The presence of such a so-designated place signifies that the Maria-Clara mentality of women was dominant at that time. The Gorordos were also very religious since they transformed one second-floor room into a chapel, revealing the Cebuanos' religious devotion and piety.
A great view of the gardens outside is best seen from the azotea (terrace or balcony), which is also a typical section of many Cebuano houses during the period.
Though the house is a typical late 19th-century Hispanic construction, most historians and preservationists describe the house as a fusion of different cultures. Chinese architecture is evident on the roof of the house, as well as on decorations. It is a steep, tile-covered roof ending in slightly upturned eaves. The carvings on the ceilings and furniture are European-inspired, but its intricacy is unmistakably Cebuano.
Some of the house's most prominent structural features are as follows:
* The entrance, consisting of a two-paneled wooden door framed by a bas relief of a quasi-classical arch with pillars.* The zaguan or lower floor, a dungeon-like enclosure floored with cut stones (tinabliya) layered with cement. The zaguan is usually used as storage area for farm produce from the Gorordos' farms, for firewood, and for religious images that could not be placed on the family altar.* The decanso (literally, "rest"), a reception area for guests. It usually features a gallinera, a bench made of molave wood and upon which house guests may "rest."* The main stairway, made of tugas (Afzelia rhomboidia) and bayong (Petersianthus quadrialatus) and intricately designed. The size of the stairway reflects the wealth of the household.* The caida or the suitor's corner, situated at the boundary of the sala (and was usually longer) and was customarily the reserved place for young maidens to welcome their suitors. On the opposite side would be a chair for the young lady's chaperone.
Though the house itself was built by Alejandro Reynes y Rosales, the name was taken after Bishop Juan Gorordo, the first Filipino Bishop of Cebu, who was also a resident of the house. In 1863, the house was bought by Juan Isidro Gorordo for only PHP2,000.
Casa Gorordo was a home to four generations of Gorordos. Juan, who married Telesfora Garces had seven children: Marcial, Telesfora, Carmen, Jose, Juan and Maria. Only Maria and Jose had children among the siblings. Maria who married Leoncio Jaen had one daughter named Telesfora. Jose who married Baldomera Galan also had only one daughter named Cesarea who married Margarito Revilles. They had six children: Josefa, Aurora (Yballe), Expedita (Yap), Juan and Gemma (died at ten months) and Alejandro (also deceased).
Today, the ancestral house-turned lifestyle museum is reopened to the public after years of renovation. In his desire to do some studies on the history of Cebu and its role in the country as a whole, Don Eduardo Aboitiz set the museum as the foundation of his studies.
Owing to the historical and cultural significance of the place, the National Historical Institute, in 1991, promulgated Board Resolution No. 4 declaring Casa Gorordo as a National Historical Landmark. The house underwent two major renovations in 1980 and in 2005 to replace aging structures.
*special thanks to the management and staff of Casa Gorordo museum....
*bibliography:
Javellana, R. (2003, June 12). Casa Gorordo. Retrieved November 13, 2006Philippines TodayNewman, J. R. (2006, September 24). A visit to Casa Gorordo. Retrieved November 13, 2006 The Governor’s Magazine. Philippine Copyright ©2006 (YELLOW PAGES) by Directories Philippines CorporationVillalon, A. (2006, September 24). PRIDE OF PLACE Casa Gorordo of Cebu, heritage icon. Retrieved November 13, 2006
It is a low two-story house. The lower floor was intended for a bodega for corn and sugar from the Gorordo farmlands, a garage, and a workplace where usually most of the housework is done. Before entering the upper floor, beside the stairs, is a waiting room for guests who offered gifts (mostly chicken and rice for the family).
The elegance of the house is mostly showcased on the upper floor. The ceilings are intricately designed and show strong European influence, although some Filipino elements also appear. The upper floor consists of the master's bedroom, separate rooms for boys and girls, a prayer room, the kitchen, the dining room, and the comfort room.
The Gorordo home allows one a view of Cebuano culture during the period. For example, in the hallway, there is a place exclusive for courting sessions. The presence of such a so-designated place signifies that the Maria-Clara mentality of women was dominant at that time. The Gorordos were also very religious since they transformed one second-floor room into a chapel, revealing the Cebuanos' religious devotion and piety.
A great view of the gardens outside is best seen from the azotea (terrace or balcony), which is also a typical section of many Cebuano houses during the period.
Though the house is a typical late 19th-century Hispanic construction, most historians and preservationists describe the house as a fusion of different cultures. Chinese architecture is evident on the roof of the house, as well as on decorations. It is a steep, tile-covered roof ending in slightly upturned eaves. The carvings on the ceilings and furniture are European-inspired, but its intricacy is unmistakably Cebuano.
Some of the house's most prominent structural features are as follows:
* The entrance, consisting of a two-paneled wooden door framed by a bas relief of a quasi-classical arch with pillars.* The zaguan or lower floor, a dungeon-like enclosure floored with cut stones (tinabliya) layered with cement. The zaguan is usually used as storage area for farm produce from the Gorordos' farms, for firewood, and for religious images that could not be placed on the family altar.* The decanso (literally, "rest"), a reception area for guests. It usually features a gallinera, a bench made of molave wood and upon which house guests may "rest."* The main stairway, made of tugas (Afzelia rhomboidia) and bayong (Petersianthus quadrialatus) and intricately designed. The size of the stairway reflects the wealth of the household.* The caida or the suitor's corner, situated at the boundary of the sala (and was usually longer) and was customarily the reserved place for young maidens to welcome their suitors. On the opposite side would be a chair for the young lady's chaperone.
Though the house itself was built by Alejandro Reynes y Rosales, the name was taken after Bishop Juan Gorordo, the first Filipino Bishop of Cebu, who was also a resident of the house. In 1863, the house was bought by Juan Isidro Gorordo for only PHP2,000.
Casa Gorordo was a home to four generations of Gorordos. Juan, who married Telesfora Garces had seven children: Marcial, Telesfora, Carmen, Jose, Juan and Maria. Only Maria and Jose had children among the siblings. Maria who married Leoncio Jaen had one daughter named Telesfora. Jose who married Baldomera Galan also had only one daughter named Cesarea who married Margarito Revilles. They had six children: Josefa, Aurora (Yballe), Expedita (Yap), Juan and Gemma (died at ten months) and Alejandro (also deceased).
Today, the ancestral house-turned lifestyle museum is reopened to the public after years of renovation. In his desire to do some studies on the history of Cebu and its role in the country as a whole, Don Eduardo Aboitiz set the museum as the foundation of his studies.
Owing to the historical and cultural significance of the place, the National Historical Institute, in 1991, promulgated Board Resolution No. 4 declaring Casa Gorordo as a National Historical Landmark. The house underwent two major renovations in 1980 and in 2005 to replace aging structures.
*special thanks to the management and staff of Casa Gorordo museum....
*bibliography:
Javellana, R. (2003, June 12). Casa Gorordo. Retrieved November 13, 2006Philippines TodayNewman, J. R. (2006, September 24). A visit to Casa Gorordo. Retrieved November 13, 2006 The Governor’s Magazine. Philippine Copyright ©2006 (YELLOW PAGES) by Directories Philippines CorporationVillalon, A. (2006, September 24). PRIDE OF PLACE Casa Gorordo of Cebu, heritage icon. Retrieved November 13, 2006
My Senior Year is the Best Thing That Happened to Me
Graduation is fast approaching. Soon, I’ll be leaving the halls and walls of my high school… my second home…
I’ll be missing my batch mates. The professors and mentors also did a terrific job to us. If not for them, we wouldn’t be that smarter and wiser than ever. I’m so grateful because I met these people who left footprints in my life. These people had been with me in my journey.
Okay! I’ll just save all the drama afterwards!!
Anyways, I’ll have a recap about some of the most unforgettable events that happened during my last year here in UPHigh.
ABAKADA
August is the month for Communications Week, or better yet known as the “Buwan ng Wika” in the University of the Philippines High School. It has been a tradition in UPHigh to hold such commemorative event that showcases the talents of the students in line with the communication arts’ subjects like Filipino, Social Science, and English.
The most anticipated part of the program is the ABAKADA, which is to be presented by the seniors. ABAKADA is an ensemble act depicting the Filipino history, mostly about the Filipino struggles during the era of the Spanish conquest of our country. This performance is annually presented by the graduating students honoring the heroism of the Filipinos in the past.
ABAKADA is a contest between the two 4th-year sections, Gonzales and Tan. But the performances of the two contenders are presented as one, but in intervals. However, we presented it as a batch. I mean, we didn’t care who’s going to win. As a batch, we were very cooperative. We also discovered our own set of abilities, and we used it. And it was obvious since the spectators were amazed by our splendid performance of the ABAKADA. Indeed, it was victorious and absolutely magnificent!
Not only that… what was really surprising was this:
The production of section Gonzales was really grandiose! I’m not kidding! They had plenty of props, which included the soil. The soil was carpeted all over their place, where their actors perform.
After the performance, the Gonzales students were already cleaning the area where they put the props, including the soil. Tan students were already through in cleaning the place. To my surprise, Tan students assisted the Gonzales people in clearing the mess! See? That’s the spirit!
INTRAMURALS
Our batch is known as the “melting pot of all talents and skills”. Artists? We’ve got Jerah, Carla, Yolike, Novelyn, and many others. Dancers? No problem. There’s Christine Marie, Gabby, Ella, Mariel, JP, John Albert, Doanne, and a whole lot more! You need singers? Still not a problem. Here’s AJ, Joseph, Nico Antonio, Shedyl, and yours truly… hehehe. How about the athletes? WE’VE GOT IT ALL, BABY! If I’m going to enumerate them, I bet I’m going to give you a long list for it.
Anyways, the UPHigh intramurals (or “intrams” for short) is the most awaited event by the students. I myself declare that our batch is the best when it comes to competence and collaboration. My batch mates really practiced hard to improve their skills in the different sports their going to play. But the intramurals is not only about sports. There were also contests like the Mr. and Ms. Intrams, Singing competitions, and the Pop Jazz.
As luck would have it, we, THE SENIORS, were declared as the OVER-ALL CHAMPION IN UP High’s INTRAMS 2006!! It was one of the milestones that our batch ever garnered. And we celebrated our triumph in the Athlete’s Night….
To be continued…hahaha!!
I’ll be missing my batch mates. The professors and mentors also did a terrific job to us. If not for them, we wouldn’t be that smarter and wiser than ever. I’m so grateful because I met these people who left footprints in my life. These people had been with me in my journey.
Okay! I’ll just save all the drama afterwards!!
Anyways, I’ll have a recap about some of the most unforgettable events that happened during my last year here in UPHigh.
ABAKADA
August is the month for Communications Week, or better yet known as the “Buwan ng Wika” in the University of the Philippines High School. It has been a tradition in UPHigh to hold such commemorative event that showcases the talents of the students in line with the communication arts’ subjects like Filipino, Social Science, and English.
The most anticipated part of the program is the ABAKADA, which is to be presented by the seniors. ABAKADA is an ensemble act depicting the Filipino history, mostly about the Filipino struggles during the era of the Spanish conquest of our country. This performance is annually presented by the graduating students honoring the heroism of the Filipinos in the past.
ABAKADA is a contest between the two 4th-year sections, Gonzales and Tan. But the performances of the two contenders are presented as one, but in intervals. However, we presented it as a batch. I mean, we didn’t care who’s going to win. As a batch, we were very cooperative. We also discovered our own set of abilities, and we used it. And it was obvious since the spectators were amazed by our splendid performance of the ABAKADA. Indeed, it was victorious and absolutely magnificent!
Not only that… what was really surprising was this:
The production of section Gonzales was really grandiose! I’m not kidding! They had plenty of props, which included the soil. The soil was carpeted all over their place, where their actors perform.
After the performance, the Gonzales students were already cleaning the area where they put the props, including the soil. Tan students were already through in cleaning the place. To my surprise, Tan students assisted the Gonzales people in clearing the mess! See? That’s the spirit!
INTRAMURALS
Our batch is known as the “melting pot of all talents and skills”. Artists? We’ve got Jerah, Carla, Yolike, Novelyn, and many others. Dancers? No problem. There’s Christine Marie, Gabby, Ella, Mariel, JP, John Albert, Doanne, and a whole lot more! You need singers? Still not a problem. Here’s AJ, Joseph, Nico Antonio, Shedyl, and yours truly… hehehe. How about the athletes? WE’VE GOT IT ALL, BABY! If I’m going to enumerate them, I bet I’m going to give you a long list for it.
Anyways, the UPHigh intramurals (or “intrams” for short) is the most awaited event by the students. I myself declare that our batch is the best when it comes to competence and collaboration. My batch mates really practiced hard to improve their skills in the different sports their going to play. But the intramurals is not only about sports. There were also contests like the Mr. and Ms. Intrams, Singing competitions, and the Pop Jazz.
As luck would have it, we, THE SENIORS, were declared as the OVER-ALL CHAMPION IN UP High’s INTRAMS 2006!! It was one of the milestones that our batch ever garnered. And we celebrated our triumph in the Athlete’s Night….
To be continued…hahaha!!
40 Questions About Me
Since this is the last year of my high school, I decided to allot the notebook, given to me by my bestfriend on my 16th birthday, for autograph purposes. It is intended for a personalized autograph to be signed by my batch mates. Why personalized autograph? Because the autograph questions were made by me!! Of course, not all of the questions. I got some of them from the magazines and internet.
I also wanted to answer those questions myself. Hahaha.
1. What’s your nickname at home?
Hmmm… my parents call me “Gelle”, a shorter name of my second name which is “Angeli”. I never want them to call me by my first name.
2. When people first met you, they say that you are…
They say that I’m snobbish and sophisticated (arte in Visayan). Maybe because of my facial features, example, my eyebrows: they are arched high. Or maybe because the way I dress. Actually, I’m just a t-shirt-slash-jeans girl!
3. What’s your biggest obsession?
I had a lot of obsessions in the past: from anime, singers, bands, and even celebrities! Well, I think I have no obsessions right now. All I can say is that I’m “obsessed” when it comes to food and music.
4. If you could be someone else for a day, you’d be…
Sometimes I wonder what it feels like to be a terrorist. It’s just that I’m curious about their ideologies, and why they want to spread the world with terror.
On the other hand, I also want to be a girl version of Justin Timberlake. I just love the dance moves!
5. What are the 3 material things you can’t live without?
a. LOTION = My skin is usually dry. I don’t wanna leave the house without putting this on my body.
b. WATCH = Though I’m the “queen of procrastination” (according to my mom), I just can’t stand it when I don’t know what time is it. Weird.
c. HANKY = as in handkerchief… I feel so dirty without this.
6. How good are you with household chores?
Is that a question? Of course, VERY GOOD! Hahaha… Really! Maybe because I’m the eldest in the family and I assist my mom in the household chores.
7. The movie that you’ll always remember is…
I LOVE MOVIES. Unfortunately, I’m out of touch when it comes the latest movies because I haven’t got enough free time to watch those.
I’ll never forget the movie “13 Going 30”, starred by Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo. The story was fantastic. The characters were awesomely performed by the actors. I just love the love story!
8. What type of music do you usually listen to?
I’m a fantastic music fanatic. Any genre will do. Actually, I appreciate all types of music. Though, I’m just very picky. And I hate overplayed music. It sucks.
9. Describe yourself in 3 words.
HANDLE WITH CARE.
10. You’d never eat ____ unless your life depended on it.
I’ll never eat out-of-this-world food like grilled roaches, snake soup, fried rats, and many more!!! EWWW!! YUCK!
11. Do you have any pets at home?
Nope. But we have a lot of stray cats in the neighborhood. I want to have cats and birds someday.
12. 3 things that you hate.
a. OVERPLAYED MUSIC
b. MESS
c. EXPECTATIONS
13. People don’t know that you are…
SIMPLE. You may find it objectionable. If you know me that well, despite of the flashy clothes I wear and the way I deal with things, damn, I’m just so simple! Because God made simple things…
14. What do you do in your spare time?
It depends on my mood. Hmmm… usually I love to eat, chat with anyone, sleep, and even daydreaming. If I have money, I’ll spend it so that I could surf in the internet or text using my cellphone.
15. What’s your best asset?
My voice.
16. Aside from bed stuff (i.e. pillows, blanket) or persons (i.e. siblings, parents), your bedside companion is….
My cellphone.
17. If you had a superpower, what would it be?
a. TELEPORTATION = so that I can go anywhere I want.
b. THE POWER TO CONTROL TIME
18. What do you love most about yourself?
I still learn how to laugh despite of the problems that I encounter.
19. Who is more closer to you: mom or dad?
I was daddy’s little girl before…
20. You want to more ___ and less ___ .
Emotionally stronger ; sluggish
21. What’s your dream travel destination?
Maldives is a nice country. I just love the tranquility of the white sand beaches. I also want to tour Holland. It’s like paradise! The flowers and grasses are fascinating.
22. Celebrity crushes?
Very many… To name a few: Chris Pine (in “Just My Luck”), Mark Ruffalo (in “13 Going 30”), Adam Beach (in “Windtalkers”), Hugh Jackman (in “Kate & Leopold”), Pete Wentz (bassist of Fall Out Boy), Gerard Way (vocals of My Chemical Romance), Mike Shinoda (emcee of Linkin Park) and Brandon Urie (vocals of Panic! At the Disco).
23. Do you cook or bake?
Cook only. I’ve tried baking in 1st-year high school, in HomeTech I.
24. What’s your cheap thrill?
Internet, cellphone load, food.
25. Dreamer or doer?
I dream a lot. Just to escape reality for some time… If I’m really determined, I become a doer.
26. If you could have coffee with anyone, dead or alive & except God, who would it be?
I actually don’t drink coffee… hahaha. Well, I would love to have Oprah by my side. She’s a very intelligent and interesting conversationalist. But sometimes, I just want to fly solo! I want to be in solitude… hehehe.
27. Would you rather “save the day” or “be saved”?
I want to save the day so that I will be remembered. Haha! But most of the time, I’m always the one who gets saved… geez.
28. When you and your crush talk, you prefer funny conversations or serious talks?
My ideal guy is someone who knows when to get serious and knows how to make me laugh.
Hmmm… both!
29. You will never…
Aside from drinking liquor, smoking, PMS, and taking dangerous drugs, or even suicide…
I WILL NEVER FORGET THE PEOPLE WHO ENTERED IN MY LIFE. If not for them, I wouldn’t be who I am right now.
30. What’s the craziest thing you ever did?
SECRET!!! Hahaha! It’s so shameful and hilarious at the same time.
The 2nd craziest thing I did was cutting my hair… ALL BY MYSELF. My hair was really crooked afterwards.
31. What’s the sweetest thing that a person has done to you?
Calling me by my name. A simple gesture like this can make me realize that “Oh! He/She knows me after all!”.
32. Describe love as an ice cream flavor.
Rocky road.
33. What’s your ideal guy?
The first thing that I would notice in a guy is the way he struts his style. Not really showing off, but the way he radiates confidence. It’s also a turn-on when a guy is talented. I like guys who has an appealing quality of voice. And most of all, I love guys who can really dance! Haha…
To sum it up, my ideal man in 3 words:
LEAVES ME BREATHLESS.
34. The date that you’ll always remember (except special occasions) is ___.
12-28-98
35. What’s your greatest fear?
To be left alone.
36. Who is your first crush in UP?
Chrys Brent!
37. Did you ever get a line of 7 in UP?
Yah… That was I think in 1st year. The subject was Math I.
38. What’s the best thing about being a UPian?
Being a UPian comes with great responsibility. But in spite of that, UPians like me survived a lot of long tests, researches, presentations, and even misunderstandings.
39. What’s your favorite high school memory?
Everything! I met 69 wonderful people…
40. Words to live by.
“We are the captains of our own ship…”
I also wanted to answer those questions myself. Hahaha.
1. What’s your nickname at home?
Hmmm… my parents call me “Gelle”, a shorter name of my second name which is “Angeli”. I never want them to call me by my first name.
2. When people first met you, they say that you are…
They say that I’m snobbish and sophisticated (arte in Visayan). Maybe because of my facial features, example, my eyebrows: they are arched high. Or maybe because the way I dress. Actually, I’m just a t-shirt-slash-jeans girl!
3. What’s your biggest obsession?
I had a lot of obsessions in the past: from anime, singers, bands, and even celebrities! Well, I think I have no obsessions right now. All I can say is that I’m “obsessed” when it comes to food and music.
4. If you could be someone else for a day, you’d be…
Sometimes I wonder what it feels like to be a terrorist. It’s just that I’m curious about their ideologies, and why they want to spread the world with terror.
On the other hand, I also want to be a girl version of Justin Timberlake. I just love the dance moves!
5. What are the 3 material things you can’t live without?
a. LOTION = My skin is usually dry. I don’t wanna leave the house without putting this on my body.
b. WATCH = Though I’m the “queen of procrastination” (according to my mom), I just can’t stand it when I don’t know what time is it. Weird.
c. HANKY = as in handkerchief… I feel so dirty without this.
6. How good are you with household chores?
Is that a question? Of course, VERY GOOD! Hahaha… Really! Maybe because I’m the eldest in the family and I assist my mom in the household chores.
7. The movie that you’ll always remember is…
I LOVE MOVIES. Unfortunately, I’m out of touch when it comes the latest movies because I haven’t got enough free time to watch those.
I’ll never forget the movie “13 Going 30”, starred by Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo. The story was fantastic. The characters were awesomely performed by the actors. I just love the love story!
8. What type of music do you usually listen to?
I’m a fantastic music fanatic. Any genre will do. Actually, I appreciate all types of music. Though, I’m just very picky. And I hate overplayed music. It sucks.
9. Describe yourself in 3 words.
HANDLE WITH CARE.
10. You’d never eat ____ unless your life depended on it.
I’ll never eat out-of-this-world food like grilled roaches, snake soup, fried rats, and many more!!! EWWW!! YUCK!
11. Do you have any pets at home?
Nope. But we have a lot of stray cats in the neighborhood. I want to have cats and birds someday.
12. 3 things that you hate.
a. OVERPLAYED MUSIC
b. MESS
c. EXPECTATIONS
13. People don’t know that you are…
SIMPLE. You may find it objectionable. If you know me that well, despite of the flashy clothes I wear and the way I deal with things, damn, I’m just so simple! Because God made simple things…
14. What do you do in your spare time?
It depends on my mood. Hmmm… usually I love to eat, chat with anyone, sleep, and even daydreaming. If I have money, I’ll spend it so that I could surf in the internet or text using my cellphone.
15. What’s your best asset?
My voice.
16. Aside from bed stuff (i.e. pillows, blanket) or persons (i.e. siblings, parents), your bedside companion is….
My cellphone.
17. If you had a superpower, what would it be?
a. TELEPORTATION = so that I can go anywhere I want.
b. THE POWER TO CONTROL TIME
18. What do you love most about yourself?
I still learn how to laugh despite of the problems that I encounter.
19. Who is more closer to you: mom or dad?
I was daddy’s little girl before…
20. You want to more ___ and less ___ .
Emotionally stronger ; sluggish
21. What’s your dream travel destination?
Maldives is a nice country. I just love the tranquility of the white sand beaches. I also want to tour Holland. It’s like paradise! The flowers and grasses are fascinating.
22. Celebrity crushes?
Very many… To name a few: Chris Pine (in “Just My Luck”), Mark Ruffalo (in “13 Going 30”), Adam Beach (in “Windtalkers”), Hugh Jackman (in “Kate & Leopold”), Pete Wentz (bassist of Fall Out Boy), Gerard Way (vocals of My Chemical Romance), Mike Shinoda (emcee of Linkin Park) and Brandon Urie (vocals of Panic! At the Disco).
23. Do you cook or bake?
Cook only. I’ve tried baking in 1st-year high school, in HomeTech I.
24. What’s your cheap thrill?
Internet, cellphone load, food.
25. Dreamer or doer?
I dream a lot. Just to escape reality for some time… If I’m really determined, I become a doer.
26. If you could have coffee with anyone, dead or alive & except God, who would it be?
I actually don’t drink coffee… hahaha. Well, I would love to have Oprah by my side. She’s a very intelligent and interesting conversationalist. But sometimes, I just want to fly solo! I want to be in solitude… hehehe.
27. Would you rather “save the day” or “be saved”?
I want to save the day so that I will be remembered. Haha! But most of the time, I’m always the one who gets saved… geez.
28. When you and your crush talk, you prefer funny conversations or serious talks?
My ideal guy is someone who knows when to get serious and knows how to make me laugh.
Hmmm… both!
29. You will never…
Aside from drinking liquor, smoking, PMS, and taking dangerous drugs, or even suicide…
I WILL NEVER FORGET THE PEOPLE WHO ENTERED IN MY LIFE. If not for them, I wouldn’t be who I am right now.
30. What’s the craziest thing you ever did?
SECRET!!! Hahaha! It’s so shameful and hilarious at the same time.
The 2nd craziest thing I did was cutting my hair… ALL BY MYSELF. My hair was really crooked afterwards.
31. What’s the sweetest thing that a person has done to you?
Calling me by my name. A simple gesture like this can make me realize that “Oh! He/She knows me after all!”.
32. Describe love as an ice cream flavor.
Rocky road.
33. What’s your ideal guy?
The first thing that I would notice in a guy is the way he struts his style. Not really showing off, but the way he radiates confidence. It’s also a turn-on when a guy is talented. I like guys who has an appealing quality of voice. And most of all, I love guys who can really dance! Haha…
To sum it up, my ideal man in 3 words:
LEAVES ME BREATHLESS.
34. The date that you’ll always remember (except special occasions) is ___.
12-28-98
35. What’s your greatest fear?
To be left alone.
36. Who is your first crush in UP?
Chrys Brent!
37. Did you ever get a line of 7 in UP?
Yah… That was I think in 1st year. The subject was Math I.
38. What’s the best thing about being a UPian?
Being a UPian comes with great responsibility. But in spite of that, UPians like me survived a lot of long tests, researches, presentations, and even misunderstandings.
39. What’s your favorite high school memory?
Everything! I met 69 wonderful people…
40. Words to live by.
“We are the captains of our own ship…”
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