Lavender & Coffee Stains

May 31, 2003

by Ivÿ, in

Random Thoughts while Walking along Makati Streets

Being “burnt-out” from a day’s work last Thursday, I decided to leave the office earlier. Earlier does not mean the usual, typical five in the afternoon. For me, earlier means seven in the evening. Ever since, I really cannot literally bring myself out of the still bright sky whenever I came from work. I prefer to emerge out of the building when the stars have illuminated the dark sky, when the dim lights lighted up the dark streets. Sliding out of the building’s glass doors, I stood aside in a corner and contemplate which way to go. There was something unusual with the night air. A sense of solemnity hovered with it. I decided to walk off the Paseo de Roxas way towards Makati Avenue en route to Ayala Avenue. I had the option for a much shorter and easier route towards MRT Ayala but probably due to some anxious load bearing in my head, I chose the other way. Whenever I wanted to unload off some heavy thoughts in my head every time I came from work, I trod along Makati Avenue.

I don’t know what it is in that street but walking in a not-so-busy, people-congested Makati Avenue never fails to clear off the cobwebs off my head. Many thoughts have clouded my focus and somehow bothered my very being. To start off, I questioned myself. What is it that I want from life? What do I want? What do I want to be? What are my plans in the future? When is the future for me? Am I already at 25? I will be 25 soon, in a few days. I am an ambitious person and I want to be somebody else someday. Not somebody famous for others to see. It is more of a self-inspired thing. I want to accomplish something for myself. I never dare to satisfy anyone but myself. I wanted to be whole. I have always been a strange, weird human being so for those reading this, do not even try to figure me out. You will only get a burning headache.

I do not know if I am already experiencing the so-called quarterlife crisis. Do you call it the quarterlife thing? At 25, I still crave to accomplish things. Maybe that was why I tried so hard to learn new things and get myself involved in new fields. I actively pursued learning Nihongo, jogging every weekends @ CCP, learning how to play tennis and even working out in a gym. When the year started, I made a promise to myself that I will try to attain new knowledge and abilities. However, it is almost midyear and it struck me that I have not even came to a point of being good at anything. I have not even started photography and refreshing my taekwondo. One thing that hit me in the head was that: I have to prioritize the things that I want to do in this life. Actually, my tendency was to learn a lot of things but not really excelling in it. This time I have to reconsider my actions. Maybe that is why I am already thinking of leaving my job so I can start focusing on the things that will make or break me.

Here are some random thoughts that juggled through my head. Thoughts that I have to categorize which is important and which is not; thoughts that I have to put into action and which are my priorities; thoughts that in the future, with a lot of thinking will define me and my future.

 I want to leave my job for 3 years.
 I want to work in a call center.
 I want to master Nihongo
 I want to take up Law.
 I want to study again; either pursues a master’s degree
in Economics or Public Administration.
 I want to study overseas courtesy of a scholarship either
in Japan or Australia or New Zealand.
 I want to go overseas to work. Before I only wanted to
travel but now, I find that toiling abroad is quite
challenging.
 I want to take photography lessons. I want to pursue it
as a hobby and maybe rise as an amateur.
 I want to refresh my taekwondo lessons so I can defend
myself whenever I find myself still out in the late hours of
the evening. Maybe I can have it exchanged for aikido
and jujitsu.
 I want to be good in playing tennis. I like the rush it
gives me everytime I hit those tennis balls off my court.
 I want to EXCEL in playing billiards so I can boldly
challenge my male buds.
 I want to travel again. See the beauty of the
countryside, the green fields, the smiles of the local
people.
 I want to visit Hacienda Looc in Batangas and renew the
ties I had with the people who helped and took good
care of me during my college practicum. God knows how
I long to see you all again.
 I want to purchase that mobile phone Nokia 3650
without borrowing my mom’s credit card. I want to buy
things that I pay for myself…in full.
 I want to buy a new cell for my youngest brother.
 I want to bring the family in an outing so we can
somehow share a day or two together since we are all
busy.
 I want to write a love letter to my Lola without using any
English words in it. I want to use deep Tagalog words.
Don’t you know I find old Tagalog words so wonderful?
 I want to learn HTML so I can make my own website.
That’s double purpose.
 I want to buy a scanner so I can scan all the best
pictures I have taken using my cheap but ever reliable
camera.
 I want to buy a desired photographer’s camera, not the
digital camera.
 I will buy digital camera only if I already have the other
camera.
 I want to be an effective writer.
 I want to contribute an article on an online magazine or
in a major broadsheet.
 I decided that I want to have my own family, too. That it
will be so sad not to have your own.
 Ideally, I want to have 6 kids – 3 boys and 3 girls. Eldest
should be a boy.
 Since we are experiencing hard times, 2 kids will be
enough. Just make sure, I have a boy as my eldest.
 I will NOT marry for security. I must LOVE a guy to marry
him.
 I will NOT marry a guy just because of love. He has to
bear the following qualities: possesses a great sense of
humor, has brains, knows how to deal with life and must
be stable in every aspect.
 I still prefer having guys as my best buds since they
effectively carry out the role of good friends.
 I want to visit Thailand as originally planned. I still crave
in going on a voyage alone.
 I want to go to Corregidor, Ilocos Norte and Bohol.
 I want to buy a new bag and shoes for my outdoor
activities.
 I want to climb Mt. Ugu this weekend.
 I want to go mountainclimbing again. I want to reach the
summit and see the glorious sun rise in the horizon and
feel the cold breeze kiss my cheeks.
 I want to fulfill basic mountaineering skills, which I forego
when I was in college. Having the physical abilities to
climb mountains is not enough.
 I want to be active again in outreach activities in the
university’s volunteer’s society or in any other private
institution. I miss doing tutorials for the poor students of
a public elementary school. I miss dealing and
internalizing with the streetchildren whom we selected
for a play wherein the proceeds will be spent for their
education. I miss taking care of children who are
terminally ill of cancer in a hospice in the PGH. I miss the
company of already strained and fatigued but cheerful
doctors and nurses of the ER in PGH. I miss all these
things for I miss the kind of rush and happiness it gives
everytime I share my time and abilities with them. I miss
sharing a little part of me to people whom I do not know
and yet they appreciate the little things I do for them.
 I want to see my 2nd ex so I can finally settle everything
once and for all. Not that I am thinking of reuniting with
him again. I strongly believe I will not agree. Not this
time.
 About my 1st ex, we are going out again during
weekends. Watching movies, playing bowling, malling,
strolling at the promenade in Roxas Boulevard and try
out the new restos there, beating each other in games
we both play in Timezone. I am still weighing the pros
and con of being in a relationship again and with him for
that matter.

These are random thoughts that define my already encumbered head. I need to prioritize. I am contemplating of leaving my job in a few month’s time. I have experienced being burnt-out in my new job as a research officer.

May 31, 2003

by Ivÿ, in

Last Sunday @ Mel and Jay

I rarely watched the boobtube for the fact I am entirely preoccupied the whole time and besides I really like watching (except watching late evening news, billiard & tennis matches and the thrilling F1 series).

The Mel and Jay show features Regine Velasquez, one of the country’s roster of talented performers. I never really appreciate the woman’s talent before. I am not really a person who is much inclined into music but upon hearing her voice on air and the songs that she sings, I found myself engaged into her and her soulful music.

I have known a lot of people who goes “gaga” over her and mostly they are men. I can still remember my ex-boyfriend who used to give me Regine CDs. We would drool over her songs and joked about it. We would comment on each songs ad how they perfectly suit us both. The lyrics of her songs are meant for real.

It was also two of Regine’s songs that he suggested for me to hear and how it perfectly suits me…alone. I wanted to hate Regine that time because wherever I go, it was always her songs that I hear. Hearing her again and again made me bitter and sarcastic about love. Only for a while…

It was also her songs that made me realize that love comes and love goes. That when you fail, there is always an option for you to stand again on your feet and learn to live again. Love maybe the only thing in the world but learn to let it go when it starts to unclasp its hold on you. The love you thought you have may leave you but always remember that love is just around the corner. In this world, we never run out of love…it is always there…

My next collections aside from bags and books will be Regine’s CDs.

DREAM TO LOVE YOU

I have a peeve against mushy stuff and normally I don’t have a craving to watch Tagalog movies for they are loaded much with it. But once in a while, I bring myself to watch some. I may not be nationalistic for not watching my very own but I do admire some of our talented pool of actors and performers. One of them is the well-respected Christopher de Leon. I have watched his film with Regine, Wanted: Perfect Mother. I may say it was perfectly crafted for them. And for the second time around, they will star in Pangarap Ko’y Ibigin Ka. Actually, I am looking forward next month to watching them on the big screen.

Don’t ask me with whom I will watch it. I will be watching it alone unless somebody invites me to watch it with him or her. I won’t readily accept any invitation unless I feel like going out with him or her or them, for that matter. Honestly, I would prefer to watch it alone. Watch it alone, laugh alone, cry alone…

May 31, 2003

by Ivÿ, in

May 31, 2003

by Ivÿ, in

24 May '03

This is what the stars says:

This is going to be a better period for you. You will physically be more energetic than usual. You will be more forceful in the way you communicate. You will be heard and you can make a mark in the world now. A fear can be overcome as your faith in the natural laws gets stronger. A discussion on spiritual matters will be enlightening.

Hmm...

May 31, 2003

by Ivÿ, in

21 May '03

Working Overtime...

I am still here at the office, working and takin' breaks in between. I wonder why things are happening when I have already made an almost 100% decision? Hmm...*think* Funny when I read this article in my fave broadsheet. It read: "Should I leave a job I love for high-paying work?" My case is different but the writer's option for that high-paying job is the one I am considering shifting gears at. I am leaving coz the work I used to love is not mine anymore. I love the new one but it seems I cannot get any self-satisfaction from it. Hmm...really, it bugs me.

A lot of things have been happening and I find them too coincidental. Are these signs that I should not hand in on my resignation letter a month after? I have thought about it Monday nite and I even told my mom despite the knowledge that she will say a blatant NO...

***

F1 Austrian Grand Prix

GREAT!

For the second time around, I watched the victory gained by my all-time fave F1 racer Michael Schumacher last Sunday. He won the race ahead of Finland's Kimi Raikkonen , [who is my officemate Pam-ski's favorite] and Brazil's Rubens Barrichello in the Austrian FORMULA ONE GRAND PRIX in Spielberg - last Sunday! =)

***

Meteor Garden

It somehow saddens me to know that I will never be able to watch a TV show that I have been waiting for so long. Too bad, it airs every Monday afternoon. Ever since its first promotional appearance in the top network, I have been glued to the boobtube every weekend just to know when its timeslot will be. But alas, the waiting only made me frustrated.

I have been waiting for Meteor Garden for the longest time. It is a Taiwanese youth-oriented show that is quite popular in Taiwan, HongKong, Japan and Singapore. It features the well-liked singing group F4. It depicts the story of SHAN CAI, a working-class student played by Barbie Hsu His Yuan. Studying in a school of the well-to-do, she is harassed and bullied by her rich classmates, especially the F4 group. It will later on came to a point that DAO MING played by Jerry Yan, will fall for SHAN CAI because of the latter's fighting spirit. On the other hand, it seems SHAN CAI is falling for LEI played by Vic Zhou. He is the quiet violin-playing member of the group. He rescued SHAN CAI from a group of bully who tried to hurt her. The other casts are Ken Zhu as XI MEN and strong>Vanness Wu as MEI ZUO.

This is dubbed in the local lingua, Filipino. If it can be compared to the Mexican telenovelas, how shall we call this Taiwanese series TV show dubbed in Filipino? Oh, just my 2 cents' worth.

***

Mt. Everest

I have read and watched about the conquest of 2 great men on the world's highest peak, that of Mt. Everest. I don't know what it is but mountains always capture my entire being. Their picturesque beauty never fails to imprison my senses, captivates my inner self.

It is every mountaineer's dream to climb the glorious mountain. I share the same dream, too. But for now, I am contented climbing mountains after mountains. Climbing up entails hard work but when you reach the peak; when you see the beauty of God's creation, you will forget the pain, the bruises. It will all be erased and forgotten. At the peak, your eyes will appreciate what it can see and what it has seen. The moment will forever be cherished in memory.

To Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgayas well as to their sons, Peter Hillary and Jamling Norgay, I admire your courageous souls for inspiring others to reach the peak of the most daunting mountain ever.

May 31, 2003

by Ivÿ, in

20 May '03

Breathing Freely...

It is Tuesday and it is a few minutes before the clock hits 5. I find this day so strange and funny. Yesterday, I was fretting and so exhausted thinking of methods to accomplish the task at hand. I came to the point that I was 80% decided to file my resignation letter in a month's time. My decision may probably be rooted to yesterday's unwanted tumble of emotions within me. I cannot seem to get hold of the turbulent craze inside me. I do not attribute it all to the new job that I have but it is more like the problem lies within me.

I know myself better than anyone else. I know that I do things because I am happy and I enjoy it. I don't even put a financial premium to it, I don't even care. What I am after is that: If I am contented and happy enough, everything else will follow.

I don't understand why all of a sudden my almost a month-old work gives me unexplained happiness. I never knew myself to be a loser or someone who easily gives up. I am a fighter but that instant, I made a decision that almost left me wallowing in tears. I would hate to leave the very institution that gave me the chance to learn, explore and fortify my capabilities, not only as a professional but as an individual as well.

I love research. I honestly do. Up to now, I am wondering what made me think like that...

Today, I woke up with a heavy head and puffed eyes. I did not sleep even a slightest wink. I brought home some reading stuff and wrote down the ideas that had randomly clashing in my head. I was able to write down my thoughts...

I came to the office a little late but a little earlier from my usual arrival. (I am always late...) As I have said a while ago, this day is so strange. I was able to accomplish half of the task I was supposed to. I was not even near to thinking that I will be able to accomplish even a single task.

***

I would like to narrate my own version of our summer outing in Island Cove but I think I have to put it off for a while.

May 31, 2003

by Ivÿ, in

11 May '03

hullo, blog!

I just got back from a weekender summer outing with my good buds. I was planning to narrate the things that happened but I think I have to put it off for a while. I happen to stumble upon somebody's _____ and I learned something. It wasn't so nice to know that everything and anything that happened was just a mere facade of showing enthusiasm.

Yes! What I discovered absolutely dampened my spirit. :sad:

Good Evening blog!

***

May 31, 2003

by Ivÿ, in

9 May '03

It's TGIF! Great! I feel like jumping and bouncing in my bed...

It is pretty ironic to realize that I came to a point where I am wishing that it is already Friday when in fact, it is only Monday. The shift with regards to my new task has left me but wanting to have a much longer weekend. I used to remember how I hate it when Friday comes, when we have holidays, when typhoon strikes the city... I hate it when there's no work,; I hate it when I have to stay home instead of goin' to the office...

But now, I find it so weird to wish that Saturday is already here. I cannot find any enthusiasm or eagerness in my work anymore. I hope this kind of feeling will not persist for a long time. It will only lead me to the point of leaving the company.

But then, sometimes, things seem all right when I can get all the information, statistics I need for the research. Like what happened today. I have been trying to gather statistics for the number of passengers from the Civil Aeronautics Board . I need some stats of passengers for the months of March-April 2002 and that of March-April 2003. I have to make a comparison with regards to the impact of SARS epidemic and that of the Iraq war. Darn! Why is it so hard to get information from the government. They cannot give you the exact person whom you can talk to.They keep on passing you to people, giving you tons of telephone numbers. Later in the day, you will still get nothing. In short, you just wasted your precious time for nothing!

I also tried to call Phillippine AirLines and NorthWest Air so that somehow I can still have some available stats for reference. They requested me to write a letter addressed to their General Managers. I wrote both GMs so my request for data will be grnated. Blasted! Those darned staff, secretaries aren't doin' their job. I wanna scream my lungs out to them for being so dumb. They act like they were superiors, even if they are far from being one. I called them up to follow-up if my request was granted. I called NW. That lady was pretty surprised when I asked her if the GM got a feedback for me. She lied through her words, trying to fool me. I don't think the GM even got to see my damn letter. I don't think she even informed him. All she can say was that they weren't allowed to release such info. All right! She has been saying that for 2 days now. Then, why does she have to tell me to make a letter?! Blasted!

I did not check PAL for I have the gut feeling this will only worsen my already dampened spirit. I got a deadline to beat and I still have more data to gather for other research work. I thought of contacting the Department of Tourism and even
the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Guess what? =) I got the stats that I need and all I can say is that I was truly satisfied with what I got. I even requested for more information and they readily gave it to me. I wanna thank Joey and Elmo from the Tourism Office and Kathleen from the NAIA Office. You guys are heaven-sent. May the Heavens bless your souls. =)

I still have to communicate with the president of a marine association in connection with the launching of a 5-year development program. He is still out of the country and I have to find ways to get to him or any of his designated staff. I have to make a phone interview. Same with the government side. She is currently in Cagayan and will be back on Monday. I wish I can produce some good results.

***

Good Mawning@ 5:12...

Hehehe! I think I have to prepare my stuff for my workout tonite. I wonder who will be joining me and TJ. It was only the 2 of us who hit the gym. We were kinda early too. I was surprised to see a few people working out. Not too congested.

What I was missing and TJ , too, I think, was seeing this Vince Perezlook-alike. He is not so goodlooking but we find his eyes way too friendly. Hehehe! Boy-hunting! Hope we can see him again. We are wondering why is not working out everyday unlike before. But I heard from the instructors that he was pretty busy at the moment. Overtime!

I don't have any scheds for tonite so I might as well spend it at the gym. Better! I guess there will be less people too since it is Friday. Better chance to workout on my favorite equipments. =)

***

I was checkin' mails when I came across this one: Pretty touching...read on...

My husband was an engineer. Since I met him, he was always an unflappable rock in my life. I knew he always had his feet firmly planted on the ground, and it seemed that no matter what else went crazy, he would be the one constant.

Three years of romance, and two years of marriage later, I got tired. He was the most unromantic man I know. He never bought me flowers, he never surprised me, and nothing changed in our marriage.

After some time, I finally found the courage to tell him that I wanted to leave him. He just sat there, speechless. My heart froze...What kind of man was I married to that didn't even know what to say to make me stay? After a while, he spoke, "What can I do to change your mind?".

"I will stay if you can give me a good answer to this question," I replied coldly. "If I asked for a flower that grew on a cliff, and you knew that getting it for me means certain death, would you get it for me?". His face grew troubled.

"Can I give you an answer tomorrow morning?" he asked. Hearing that kind of answer, my heart died. I knew that I could never be happy with a man who couldn't even give me an answer straight away.

The next morning, when I woke up, he was missing.

In the living room, under a warm glass of milk, was a note. My eyes grew misty as I read it...

"Dear, I have my answer. I will never pick the flower for you if it meant certain death. But before you leave, I hope you can give me a chance to Give you my reasons....You will always sit in front of the computer and type about for the whole day, but every time you will end up in tears cause your formatting will always go all over the place... I need my fingers, to do the formatting for you, so your tears will become smiles. You like to travel, but would always get lost...I need my eyes, so that I can bring you to the nicest places on earth. Every time you leave the house, you would always forget your keys... I need my legs, so that I can run home to open the door for you.

You never knew how to take care of yourself... I am always there for you when you need me most. I need my hands to help you get rid of the pesky white hair You hate so much when you grow old, to trim your nails, to feed you.

So you see, that's why I can't pick the flower for you.

Until I find someone who loves you more than I do, I will need to have an able body to take care of you.

If you accept my reasons, then open the door, where I will be waiting with your favorite muffin."

With tears streaming from my eyes, I opened the door, and there he stood, with an extremely worried look on his face. He still had nothing to say, but just stood there waving the packet he had in his hand in front of me. And then I knew for a fact that I will never find another man who will ever love me as much as he does.

Just because someone doesn't love you the way you want them to doesn't mean that they don't love you with all they have...

***

An article from Philstar.com dated 9 May 2003...

MAJESTIC MAYOYAO

In Ifugao Province, rice is the great grass. Its bright yellow-green prairies form splendid giant carpets on terraced mountainsides, scenic valleys and river deltas. Believed to be many times the length of the Great Wall of China, the amazing Ifugao Rice Terraces were painstakingly handcarved by the Ifugaos over 2,000 years ago. It took centuries to build these awesome structures and work is still unfinished making it the longest agricultural project in history. It is the greatest monument of antiquity not made by slaves but by a free people. Its existence is clearly the result of the struggle for survival by the Ifugaos from their harsh environs.

In December 1995, the World Heritage List of UNESCO listed the Ifugao Rice Terraces (covering 20,000 hectares that span the towns of Banaue, Hungduan, Mayoyao and Kiangan (as the first living cultural landscape. In the Philippines, the other tourist sights proudly include in the World Heritage List are the Tubattaha Reef Marine Park, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, the Baroque churches of the Philippines and the historic town of Vigan in Ilocos Sur.

Together with Rep. Alfredo Mara (of Negros Occidental who chairs the Committee on Agriculture, Food and Fisheries; soil erosion consultant Noah Manarang; OIC director Virgie Agcopra and executive assistant Lia Anonas (from the Congressional Oversight Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization), we took the 10-hour drive to Banaue to find immediate solutions to save the rice terraces from soil erosion, the proliferation of giant worms, as well as prevent it from completely drying up. We were welcomed by Ifugao Rep. Solomon Chungalao at the well-appointed Banaue Hotel operated by the Philippine Tourism Authority. At the Imbayah festival held at the town plaza, we watched Ifugao men garbed in traditional wear running after a big black greased pig. While watching the games, my sister Michelle Soliven delightfully sampled their tapuey (rice wine) for the wine-tasting contest.

The next day, we proceeded to the Mayoyao rice terraces located 41 kilometers from Banaue. Joining us were Rep. Jesli Lapuz of Tarlac, Albay Rep. Krisel Lagman-Luistro, and former Manila Rep. Sandy Ocampo. At some point during our trip, we encountered a roadblock (a rock the size of a 10-wheeler truck blocked our way. But thanks to dynamite, the road was cleared in 40 minutes! Stand-up comedian Bum Tenorio entertained us with his song and dance numbers while we waited. After the road was cleared, we had a blast of a time the rest of the way.

Just a two-hour drive via a winding road is the municipality of Mayoyao, where the world (most majestic, yet still undiscovered, rice terraces await the more adventurous traveler. Cozily snuggled in the bosom of the Central Cordillera mountain ranges, it has earned the monicker of the "Land of Eternal Spring." It has a land area of 360 sq. km. and is one of the 11 towns in Ifugao Province. Spellbound, we trekked to Mayoyao (foremost attraction stone-walled rice terraces stretching from the mountain-perched barangay of Chaya to the banks of the legendary Penangah River downstream. Each terrace wall is carefully paved with stones, some so huge that it was a wonder how ordinary mortals without modern equipment were able to transport the stones from the river below. With bare hands and crude wooden tools, the Ifugaos had built an enduring marvel that baffles even modern-day engineers.

Other tourist attractions here are Mt. Amuyao being the 8th highest mountain in the country, the glorious Mahencha and Tenogtog waterfalls, (Or which is a large mausoleum containing the bodies of the town (native warriors and Mt. Nagchayan, a town where Japanese troops under Gen. Yamashita fought fierce battles during WWII.

In Mayoyao, we attended the indigenous annual town fiesta called "Igkhumtad Ad Majawjaw," a colorful tapestry of tradition meant to relive the revered cultural customs of their ancestors.

We checked out the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA) property (a cozy log cabin in the mountains which just needs P3.5 million to be completed. With the structure operational, more people can enjoy the Eighth Wonder of the Natural World. This dream for the terraces to be accessible to the world will be easily realized with the servicing of commercial airlines to Bagabag Airport in Nueva Vizcaya, about 90 minutes away from Banaue.

After a sumptuous dinner of taro with ginger, succulent lengua, beef with cheese, mountain rice and leche flan, we huddled around a bonfire to keep us warm on that chilly night. As we sipped piping hot mountain coffee, we discussed the beauty of the rice terraces and what action to take to save it.

Earlier that day, Rep. Mara (and Noah held a dialogue with local agriculture officials and farmers affected by soil erosion. It was alarming to find out that in Mayoyao alone, 20 percent of the rice terraces have been destroyed by erosion while another 50 percent are already deteriorating. The giant worms, on the other hand, have created holes on the terraces and dried up the soil. The commercial pesticides they used also killed the fishes thriving within the terraces. With proven effectiveness in controlling and preventing soil erosion, Vetiver grass technology will be utilized in the terraces. Noah, who we fondly call the Vetiver Queen, is one of the 13 individuals from around the world cited by the Vetiver Network for outstanding work in this field. Formerly with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, she learned this technology from a study grant project of His Majesty, King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand in 1994.

"One of the special characteristics of the Vetiver grass, also called the miracle grass, is its three-meter roots that grow vertically at the rate of one foot every month. It can thrive in extreme conditions such as drought, submergence in water, toxic and acidic soil," Noah enthused. Being very affordable, the farmers were very receptive and eager to try it. Apart from being organic, the grass blends aesthetically with the terraces having the same appearance as the rice.

Hedgerows of the grass could be planted on the edge of the terraces for the roots to bind the stonewall with the soil. With its fibrous roots and its natural insect repelling properties, the worms may be deterred from digging their way through the walls of the terraces. A program is being drawn out to train local agricultural officers to propagate the grass with proper applications in planting them on the terraces. The team hopes to source enough funding to implement the program. For now, select pilot sites are being planned. Vetiver can also be used as roofing materials for the native huts which have since given way to galvanized iron sheets because of the depletion of cogon grass. The Lonely Planet travel book even wrote that (a pity to see these iron roofs that glisten under the sun." Vetiver grass for the roofs will bring back the rustic charm of the huts as they sit nestled at the heart of the terraces. Vetiver leaves can be made into baskets, mats and souvenir items as well.

We were exhausted by midnight but had the best sleep ever in our authentic Ifugao hut perched on a hill. As we watched the sunrise over the majestic terraces the following day, we realized there truly is splendor in the grass. We should get our act together before it (too late for this kind of beauty and grandeur comes but once in a lifetime.

HOW TO GET THERE: Mayoyao is reachable by land from Manila either through the lowland provinces of Nueva Vizcaya and the Ifugao towns of Lagawe and Banaue or through Nueva Vizcaya, Isabela and the Ifugao towns of Alfonso Lista and Aguinaldo. Air Philippines flies to Tuguegarao, a four-hour drive to Banaue, Ifugao.

For more info, contact Banaue Hotel & Youth Hostel at (074) 386-4087; telefax (074) 386-4088; Cordillera Administrative Region Tourism Office, (074) 442-8848

May 31, 2003

by Ivÿ, in

7 May '03

I feel so exhausted today. Not because I did a little workout but because I was physically and mentally drained from work. Darn! I don't think I am enjoying this new task anymore. Sometimes I feel like complaining but I cannot bring myself to do so. I wanna learn what I would have to learn. Complaining will not serve any purpose at all. Maybe I just feel so frustrated because
despite how hard I work my butt off, I still cannot accomplish the desired task. It did not even bring affirmative results. Even I, cannot accept the output of my hard work.

I wish tomorrow, I mean today's work will yield better, brighter results. Maybe that will keep my hopes and my enthusiasm up.

I decided I will be having a workout again. I should maximize the time while I still can. I will be pretty busier than ever. You know what? I am always looking forward in attending my workout sessions. The instructors are nice, friendly and accommodating. Bogs, Ronnie and Ricky are really great guys. They are also funny. Hehehe! =)

Oh well, I still have so many important things to do. Goodness! I forgot my scholarship and I haven't reviewed yet for my Nihongo evaluation exam. I have already forgotten the few words I have learned. I need time and I don not want to fail. This time, I want to really excel and get serious about it.

I wonder if my classmate in Nihonggo is still attending the Manila class. Hmm... I hope he still is. The last time we talked, he said he will probably attending the Makati class. Hehehe! I told him to still take the Manila class so I can have someone who can join me for breaks, review sessions. But unfortunately, I was not able to attend the last semester's class due to unwanted circumstances. Ei, dude! Hope to see you again.

Ei, blog! Gotta run and fix some stuff!

***

I checked my planner and I found out that my weekends for the month of flowers and beauty (hehehe! This is my birth month =) are already loaded with activities. I wonder how can I "inject" a few more skeds. Hmm...

Next weekend, together with some close buds: LA, Jon and Jary; probably Mariel and Jorry and somebody's "loves" Leigh will be hitting off the waters. We are planning to frolic in some beach resort to unwind and cool off the summer's sweltering heat. I hope we will be able to find a very suitable and comfy place to spend the weekend.

LA and I have find it hard to inquire where the great summer place will be. Almost all the travel agencies and some direct inquiries in beach resorts always give us this word: fully-booked. Well, our last option will be Island Cove in Cavite. Kinda near but better than nothing at all. Everybody needs to unwind.

I wish they can go to Puerto Galera. This island boasts of a beauty
so pristine, so untouched. I have spent my own frisking a few weeks back. All the things your eyes can see will surely utter from your mouth words of awe. Like a pup sumptuously licking its milk, I was more than contented.

A weekend after this, Saturday, that is - I will be watching a basketball game of some good buds of mine. It was nice I saw Kiko. He invited me to check it out and once more, yell and cheer for my dear Shohoku team. I really have some apprehensions showing up.
It was already a new team composed of a lot of new ones. The others whom I've known were now playing for other teams. Anyway, I will be cheering for teams I got friends at.

On Sunday, I have a company outing, a teambuilding of some sort. This will be held at Lagos del Sol in Caliraya, Laguna. Nestled in the imposing Lake Caliraya, this resort is situated in the heart of a lake kissed by the sun. Hmm...so much for engaging words of advertising. But I will really check this place out.

The following weekend after this, I will be attending a "much-awaited" wedding of a colleague. Well, they were childhood sweethearts. I have met Hector a couple of times before. Hey, Joy! How does it feel like you're almost near to saying goodbye to single blessedness? Well, I hope you'll have the bliss of a wonderful marriage. Best wishes!

For the last weekend of the fantastic month, I will be attending a
club meeting. I am looking forward to this event since I have
almost missed out a lot of activities since time immemorial.
Hehehe!

With this schedule for the weekends, I wonder where I can schedule another outing to be arranged my college barkada. We are 11 in the group and almost all of us are scattered in the islands of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. And a couple of them are somewhere off in Asia and Europe. I wish...

On the sides, I do workout in the gym during weeknites, after
office hours. I join dinner invitations from friends if not working out.
I am also starting to practice tennis and learn to play squash
during the weekend mornings of Saturday or Sunday. If weekends
are not as loaded as it is now, I do outreach activities organized
by my dear university or by a private group.

Sometime next month, I will be starting my Nihongo classes
again during Saturdays. My other skeds which were pre-planned
before the summer like attending photography class and taekwondo class were nowhere to be scheduled. I guess I have to focus on some activity first and try being good at them, maybe to a point of perfecting them.

Anyway, I'm not dying yet so I still have much time to accomplish
those tasks I have set for myself. Better than doing nothing at all....

May 31, 2003

by Ivÿ, in

4 May '03

Hullo, blog! =)

I woke up pretty late this mawning. Probably fatigue has finally settled on me. The past 2 weeks had been so stressful to me. Aside from the physical strain, emotional overload is taking its toll on me. Ain't sure if I was really creating that load for myself but honestly, I wanted something that is quite extraordinary from
the usual routine.

I have started going to the gym to workout. The place was a little cramped with equipments and die-hard health buffs. My thinking of working out to attain a health fit does not involve equipments. I do jog my legs out during the early mornings of the weekends at the now-so-clean-and-kinda-safe esplanade of Roxas Boulevard. Afterwards, I will head towards the maze grounds of CCP
and PICC. Honestly, I find this customary activity relaxing. It lets my body transcends the physical mass weighing on me. My mind is void of the usual cares and curse of this errant world. All my senses can only experience this so-called "nirvana." Even only for a moment...

***

Hindi ba nakakainis yung haba na nga type mo, isang novel na nga eh, tapos biglang di mase-save or totally posting it did not work out?!

Now, that's really making me a little pissed off! GRRR....

***

It was great to see some good friends lately. I dare not elaborate
when and where. For some reason, my 2 close buds did rescue me. So, I wanna thank you both for always, never failing to be there. Thank you, LA and Jon. Up to now, I can still feel the shivers I got from that scary incident. Had I known, I would not have exchanged my already crafted sked in Congo with that...iww! I still feel yucky about it, though. Now! I do sound like a conio here! Hehehe! =)

Ei, you two! Thanks for picking me up at the Megastrip! Hahaha!
As usual, I got lost. But still, I made it. If it weren't for you both,
I would not have seen a few good people of Pex Town. Great to
see you peepz: Mariel, Jorry, Ispangki, Tina, Kiko, Gerald,
Con-Con, Abie, Czah, Miguel, Jhing, Paul. It was also nice
to meet: Gheds, Vamp, Ever, Shey-Anne, HPants. I wonder if I missed mentioning anyone. Hmm...

May 31, 2003

by Ivÿ, in

ALL ABOUT LOVING YOU
Bon Jovi

Looking at the pages of my life
Faded memories of me and you
Mistakes you know I've made a few
I took some shots and fell from time to time
Baby, you were there to pull me through
We've been around the block a time or two
I'm gonna lay it on the line
Ask me how we've come this far
The answer's written in my eyes

[Chorus:]
Every time I look at you, baby, I see something new
That takes me higher than before and makes me want you more
I don't wanna sleep tonight, dreamin's just a waste of time
When I look at what my life's been comin' to
I'm all about lovin' you

I've lived, I've loved, I've lost, I've paid some dues, baby
We've been to hell and back again
Through it all you're always my best friend
For all the words I didn't say and all the things I didn't do
Tonight I'm gonna find a way

[Chorus:]
Every time I look at you, baby, I see something new
That takes me higher than before and makes me want you more
I don't wanna sleep tonight, dreamin's just a waste of time
When I look at what my life's been comin' to
I'm all about lovin' you

You can take this world away
You're everything I am
Just read the lines upon my face
I'm all about lovin' you

[Chorus:]
Every time I look at you, baby, I see something new
That takes me higher than before and makes me want you more
I don't wanna sleep tonight, dreamin's just a waste of time
When I look at what my life's been comin' to
I'm all about lovin' you

All about lovin' you

WHEN YOU LOVE SOMEONE
Bryan Adams

When you love someone - you'll do anything
You'll do all the crazy things that you can't explain
You'll shoot the moon - put out the sun
When you love someone

You'll deny the truth - believe a lie
There'll be times that you'll believe you can really fly
But you're lonely nights - have just begun
When you love someone

When you love someone - you'll feel it deep inside
And nothin else can ever change your mind
When you want someone - when you need someone
When you love someone...

When you love someone - you'll sacrifice
You'd give it everything you got and you won't think twice
You'd risk it all - no matter what may come
When you love someone
You'll shoot the moon - put out the sun
When you love someone

FOR THE FIRST TIME
Kenny Loggins

Are those your eyes?
Is that your smile?
I’ve been looking at you for ever,
But I never saw you before.
Are these your hands? Holding mine?
Now I wonder how I could have been so blind.
And for the first time, I am looking in your eyes.
For the first time, I'm seeing who you are.
I can't believe how much I see,
When you're looking back at me.
Now I understand what love is,
Love is...
For the first time...

Can this be real?
Can this be true?
Am I the person I was this morning?
And are you the same you?
It’s all so strange.
How can it be?
All along this love was right in front of me!
And for the first time, I am looking in your eyes.
For the first time, I am seeing who you are.
I can't believe how much I see,
When you're looking back at me.
Now I understand what love is...
Love is...
For the first time.

Such a long time ago,
I had given up on finding this emotion,
Ever again.
But you're here with me now,
Yes I found you somehow,
And I've never been so sure.
And for the first time, I am looking in your eyes,
For the first time, I'm seeing who you are,
Can't believe how much I see,
When you're looking back at me.
Now I understand what love is...
Love is...
For the first time

***

As I am hooked up in front of my pc, music can be heard playing at the background. It was pretty soothing to hear, honest. Mind you, the songs at play are love, sentimental songs. I really found some mushy but some are good ones, at least for me.

Either I find it soulful or sentimental or heartbreaking, I do appreciate them.

I'D RATHER
Luther Vandross

I thought sometime alone
was what we really needed
you said this time would hurt more than it helps
but I couldn't see that
I thought it was the end
of a beautiful story
and so I left the one I loved at home to be alone (alone)
and I tried to find
out if this one thing is true
that I'm nothing without you
I know better now
and I've had a change of heart

I'd rather have bad times with you
than good times with someone else
I'd rather be beside you in a storm, than safe and warm by myself
I'd rather have hard times together, than to have it easy apart
I'd rather have the one who holds my heart
whoo-oo-oo-oo yeah

And then I met someone
and thought she could replace you
we got a long just fine
we wasted time because she was not you
we had a lot of fun
though we knew we were faking
love was not impressed with our connection they were all lies,
all lies so I'm here cause I found this one thing is true
that I'm nothing without you
I know better now
and I've had a change of heart

I'd rather have bad times with you
than good times with someone else
I'd rather be beside you in a storm, than safe and warm by myself
I'd rather have hard times together, than to have it easy apart
I'd rather have the one who holds my heart
who holds my heart

I can't blame you if you turn away from me, like I've done you,
I can only prove the things I say with time,
please be mine,

I'd rather have bad times with (please be mine) you,
than good times with someone else (I know)
I'd rather be beside you in a storm (anytime),
than safe and warm by myself (so sure baby)
I'd rather have hard times to gether,
than to have it easy apart
I'd rather have the one who holds my heart (my heart)

I'd rather have bad times with you (surely),
than good times with someone else (surely)
I'd rather be beside you in a storm (oh yeah),
than safe and warm by myself (all by myself)
I'd rather have hard times together,
than to have it easy apart (you know it)
I'd rather have the one who holds my heart

I'd rather have the one who holds my heart
I'd rather have the one who holds my heart
whoooo.....who holds my heart

JEALOUS
Nina

Jealous of the girl who caught your eye
One of my darker days
When you looked at her where was I?
Shoulda been in her place
Here I am
All alone imagining what could have been
If I had been there

[Chorus:]
Jealous of the one who'se arms are around you
If she's keeping you satisfied
Jealous of the one who finally found you
Made your sun and your stars collide
La la la la la la la
She's a very very lucky girl
La la la la la la la

Jealous of the one who won your heart
They say it's a perfect match
She's gonna get to be where you are
And I don't get better than that
She'll say you're fine
Whisper words I wish were mine
And they might have been
If I had been there

[Repeat Chorus]

You know I'd fight the good fight
If I thought I'd change your mind
But if she makes you happy
I would leave that dream behind
Man, she better treat you right
And give you everything
Cause at the moment she doesn't
I'll be waiting in the wings

[Repeat Chorus]

La la la la la la la
She's a very very lucky girl

LET ME BE THE ONE
Jimmy Bondoc

somebody told me you were leaving, i didn't know
somebody told me you're unhappy but it doesn't show
somebody told me that you don't want me no more
so you're walking out the door

nobody told me you'd been crying every night
nobody told me you'd been dying but didn't want to fight
nobody told me that you fell out of love from me
so i'm setting you free

let me be the one to break it up
so you won't have to make excuses
we don't need to find a setup
where someone wins and someone loses
we just have to say our love was true
but has now become a lie
so i'm telling you "i love you"
one last time and "goodbye"

somebody told me you still love me, i don't know why
nobody told me you only meeded time to fly
somebody told me you'll come back
when our love is real again

just turn around and walk away
you don't have to live like this
but if you love me still then stay
don't keep me waiting for that final kiss
we can work together through this test
or we can work through it apart
i just need to get thiss off my chest
that you will always have my heart

let me be the one...

May 31, 2003

by Ivÿ, in

Blogs for the month of May

1 May '03

Labor Day!

I find it pretty ironic to call it Labor Day and spend it as a holiday!

Oops, I hope the workers out there won't get mad with me for saying this. I just find it weird to call it that way. You are supposed to work coz you call it Labor Day. Maybe they should have renamed it something else. I really find it pretty ironic, honest.

Anyway, it has been exactly half a month since I logged on here. Work, my precious work has kept me from straying to the world of NET and instead read my old books and update myself with the current situation of the economy and the latest trend of the industries.

Everyday, I have to read and monitor the latest news about SARS. I have to browse and scan BusinessWorld, Inquirer, Philippine Star and my-not-so-favorite Manila Bulletin. Actually, I am after the economic impact of this full-blown severe epidemic that has
caused havoc in Asia and the Americas.

The Philippines is not SARS-free anymore. We already have 4 cases since I last heard it. I was alone in a cafe at The Enterprise a few days ago writing some personal stuff and this thought suddenly occured to me. Honestly, I had the jitters. What if? What if we become like that of Singapore and HongKong? Where everything isn't safe anymore? Where people, even your friends, you will suspect that they carry the dreaded virus?

I guess that will make life a little gloomy. Why? Because that might lead to living a life of seclusion. Away from the usual way I live my life everyday. I am not saying that I lead a very exciting life but what I mean is, I try to spend my day as it is. Not just plain work but I try to inject a little fun to it. One thing with me is that I can be happy and enjoying even I am alone. I hope SARS won't come to our shores the way it did to other nations; affecting the waves that characterize our very lives.

***

For half a month, random thoughts kept on tumbling around in on my head. I don't know but I think my creative juices are flowing. I just hope I can find the time to write again. It is my great love in life but I never had the time to really nurture this passion.

I wish I had rathered pursued Journalism than tried to wait to get in to the college where I will take Physical Therapy. Now, look at me! Where did the waiting bring me? Yes, I have regrets. But back then, I was really trapped in confusion. A kind of bewilderment that led me to make decisions that I will soon look back on with regret.

I've always wanted to write. I still have these old notebooks that once marked the real me. Sometimes I read them and I will laugh unceremoniously because I have witten something funny. Some are quite mushy, too. Honestly, it brought back memories of my private childhood.

I wish I can really find time to write again. If ever I will be ask by a genie what kind of vacation I would prefer, I would choose some place where it is quiet and where my eyes can truly appreciate beauty and life.

A life in the quiet countryside will do. A small hut surrounded by trees located in a middle of a vast field will do. You will rise every morning, look out the window and greet the glorious morning sun. You can hear the sweet chirping of the little mayas that perch themselves in the arms of the friendly trees. You can see far out that a farmer has started his day early. You can hear the splashing of the waves as they play in the deep sea. You can feel this adrenaline rush the moment that you see how splendid the mountain stood nearby.

You will appreciate the work of God in the beauty of the Nature that your eyes can see.

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