The Past, Future and Present

Hmmm....Sounds interesting? Ligaya gave me this assignment. This is my first time being tagged, so without further delayed here it goes:

20 years ago:
I was 9 years old and
in grade 3. My teacher was Mrs. Edith Padilla. Naks! hahah naalala pa. She was a very brilliant teacher but we considered her strict because she gets angry whenever she asks questions and nobody can answer from the class. Reminiscing the past I could say I am one of her pet because she always gives me responsibilities like when she goes out of the classroom she would asked me to lists down my classmates names who would get noisy. And when there are assignments, she would asked me to collect it for her, I am also asked to correct my classmates homeworks. Most of the times, she would asked me to get her snacks or buy anything she needs in our own sari-sari store. In other words...ako ang kanyang utusan! hahah she is very nice to my Mom though. We had a small sari-sari store back then and it is situated outside the school premise. My teacher would always stopped by into our store and talked to my Mom.
I also remember, I had a sitmate/friend named Mambri Terrando...she was very pretty and looked liked artista but she died of leukemia. I never had a chance to see her wake though.

15 years ago:
I was 14 fresh and young! hihihi ;-) and i was in second year HS. My teacher was Ms. ms. ms. gossh i can't remember her name. I can remember her face she's got very curly hair and very strict too. She was similar to that teacher of mine while I was in grade 3. This time mas matindi pa because she would punish all of us by sending us out of the room and sit on the air while under the heat of the sun. I remember she was very particular about cleanliness of the classroom. This time I was the Secretary of the class...meaning taga sulat sa blackboard whenever she wants something to be copied by my classmates. Kukunti lang kc ang mga books that time. Second year, hmm...that time my long time ago crush - Jay Navata courted me. He was guapo as usual. He was being paired to me since we were in grade one, take note! Back then, I just cried whenever my classmates would tease us. We were paired untill grade 4. Then here comes Marifer Montoya the third party. She is also pretty but unlike me she would accomodate Jay's pa charming effect. I think they became a couple until we graduated in grade 6. My heart was bleeding whenever I saw them and heard our classmates teasing them. Ayan kasi pakipot pa! heheh I was that hard-to-get kc at that time.
Anyways, we went to differerent schools in high school. Marifer went to Davao City, I went to the local school and Jay went to Holy Cross of Bansalan. One night of August incomign fiesta of our baranggay, he came with his cousin who is also my friend. So we talked and courted me. Aba ang bilis ha, tagal tayong di nagkita tapos pagnagkita, ligaw agad. Pakipot na naman ako, I said let me think about this...come back after 2 months. Ang sira ulo di na bumalik! Looser!

10 years ago:
I was 19 yrs. young and blooming as usual. This time I was working hard to maintain my government scholarship for PESFA or Private Education Student Fund Assistance. I go to Cor Jesu College a catholic school administered by the Sacred Heart of Jesus Brothers. We have 3 brilliant mentors: Ms. Saberon, Mrs. Navales and Mrs. Cansancio.

5 years ago:
I am in my 4th year working at UIC. The University of the Immaculate Conception run by the Religious of the Virgin Mary (RVM). About my lovelife, I just broke off with my BF since college. He was like one of those guys who are atat na atat to get married. He's got a nice job though working for a government agency but he was still on his way to stabilizing his financial condition. I was like show me a house (hi's a civil engineering grad.) and lotzz of money then i will marry you. LOL!
Adding to my broken heart, I found a textmate from Zambo who'm we became serious with for a year, he's got a niece going to the same school I worked with but obviously our relationship didn't worked out.

3 years ago:
26 years old and was on a dilemma...to get married or to stay single? Nahh, can't imagine myself being buro. Bitaw oi, that time I was seriosly talking to John online. We met at Lovestinks: one of the internet chatroms of yahoo.

On my 26th birthday I received the very first flower from a guy (JJ) which he ordered online. Never in my past bf's gave me flowers before...it sucks ha? He also sent me a box and it has a ruby earrings, 2 CD collection of music a VHS for Taebo (he knows that I am going to the gym), and a photo of him.

Image007His birthday card says: As gently as the fragrance of a rose, may these loving thoughts come to you...I love you! And he wrote: Happy Birthday Elise! I hope this brings you even a fraction of the cheer that you bring me. Signed JOHN and then there was a little note that says: here are the rest of your bday presents...enjoy. I love you very much. I hope all goes well and we meet in a few months...love John. (photos taken by a camera phone) last year:

My search for my lifetime partner has come to an end. Obviously, John and I got married a year ago. I am enjoying my stay here in the united states of america. I have also visited several states and mostly I am enjoying being John's wife. Achochooo!

this year:
I've been working my ass off for my project in the PI, a house for my family. Still enjoying vacations and our love for each other is going stronger...evryday! haha i know that word is rusty but its true.

last night:
I was like a zoombie, I can't get myself away from the square-headed bf. I spent a lot of times talking to Michelle from Denmark and Joan from Marysville, Ohio over the yahoo pc to pc call. I was also busy checking out for the Sarimanok One card. I sign up for one but i didn't hear anything from them yet.

today:
obviously busy blogging and doing laundry at the same time. I did clean the house a little bit earlier. I also made us a good breakfast, pancake with sugar free syrup, bacon and scrambled egg with a glass of orange juice.

tomorrow:
I don't know what to do in the morning but I will be closing the store at 9pm. It sucks ha? I had to cancell my dental appointment at 6pm.

next year:
Hopefully, saving for my project in Pinas will be over. There is a possibility I could go home and visit the family and see the fruit of my work. I would also like to catch up with my classmates, friends and co-workers in UIC.

5 to 10 yrs. from now:
Hopefully, I could buy an extra farm for the family. Maybe helped finance my sissy to migrate either Canada or US of A. My nephew will graduate the nursing course and get a job here so he can help his siblings go to school.
For JJ and I...maybe a baby or two? I want a twins...a boy and a girl para stop na. Getting a bigger house is up sa Padre de Familya.
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OK, I am done. I had a grand time doing this. Thanks Aya for tagging me. I never thought this would be that fun. Guess what John said? He said, I would like to read that one! heheh of all the posts I have dito lang sya nagka interes.

Anyways, Do I have to pass this on? Jenny, LeiaTosh, Tracy and Maya its your turn. Have fun guys. No rush though.

A Super Hilarious Movie

Girl: Are you looking for something?

Andy: Is there something I should be looking for?
Girl: We have a great selection of...do it yourself!
Andy: Do you want to do it yourself? (Both of them cracking up)
----
Hope you have a big trunk
because i am putting my bike on it!

---
These are only a few of the hilarious lines I remembered from this movie the 40 year old virgin. There were too many of them to remember. Doug (JJ's friend), JJ of course and I watched it earlier at Easton Town Center. This movie has a rating R for its pervasive sexual content, language and some drug use.

I swear Steve Carrell, Andy Stitzer in the movie is very fitted into the role, he's got the look of the 40 year old virgin and can really play a big old dork.

Andy attempted to loose his virginity before...ya know when he was young-er but it never worked out. Until he got older and he was more and more embarassed so he just stopped trying. It didn't bother him until his 3 co-workers at Smart Tech knew about it and so they were all very excited for him to get laid. They helped him by giving advices, hints on how to flirt to women. Nothing seemed to worked out until Andy met Trish who sells stuff from eBay...sounds familiar? She was also a 40 year old but with 3 children and she's a grandma.

It was very funny too when his 3 co-workers took him to a spa for a hair wax removal...I could almost feel the pain whenever the lady would pull the hairs off from his chest.

Ahhh can't wait until the DVD is out so I can ask JJ to buy it. It was a good movie for someone like me who's been depressed lately...ahhh char...sistah don't react. Im Okidokie now! But I am telling you...I'm serious this is the first totally funny movie I've watched for quite awhile, it was funny all the way through. Even the Deuce Begalow: European Gigolo and the Wedding crashers didn't quite crack me up. So if you are on ur way to watch a movie and don't know what exactly to watch....I would highly recommend this movie. It's worth every penny you spent!

Btw, outside the Easton Town Center was a childrens playground. I snapped some photo using my camera phone:

Kadayawan Festival sa Davao

I got here July of 2003 just a month before the Kadayawan Festival which is always celebrated in the month of August. I missed two festivals already. Kadayawan is a celebration of life, a thanksgiving for the gifts of nature, the wealth of culture, the bounties of harvest and serenity of living. Its a very fun celebration.

Remember the past - ahem! I used to go to Magsaysay Park for the mini-trade fair which is like a flea market here in US. They have carnival rides, lots of games and concerts, or programs performed by different groups.

My officemates and I would go to the park and buy the famous durian. Nothing beats the taste of the fruit that smells like hell but taste like heaven! Waahhh i am missing it so bad! Nwey, we used to eat our heart out untill we are stuffed like its the last durian we can eat for the rest of our lives - ingon ana mi ka dalo! They said eat moderately because it will make ur body hot, asa ka hot! heheh Its a good aphrodesiac daw eh.

How can I forget the lanzones, rambutan, mangga cebu, mangoosten and marang? These yummy fruits are soooo darn cheap! Luckily, we have 1 rambutan tree that was full of fruits month's before I came here...so kaun jud ko ug taman.

Usually the Malls and shopping centers will have their Kadayawan Sale too...and they will have their Midnight Sale which is our favorite time to shop.

One of my favorite part of the festival is the Floral float parade. It is a parade and contests of floats wherein they are dressed with flowers and/or vegetables. I've read that this years winner is the NCCC entry. Its very amazing how they imagined on how to create different sizes and shapes of their float. Thumbs up to the brilliant minds and ideas of those behind every float. Some of those floats have Manila stars riding on it, adding to the merriment of the crowd.

How about the Indak-indak sa Kadalanan? Yes, I was one of those thousands of davaoeños who would line up on the streets so we can watch the Indak-indak sa kadalanan. It's davaoeños celebration through street dancing with the beat of tribal music. We used to line up around Ilustre streets with my Mom and Sister's and pamangkins and after that we would go to Central Bank for the Trade Expo. Here, you can see a lot of shops, shops and florals that you can't imagine. In Davao you can see the best and unique Orchids and its different hybrid's, so many flowers and bonsai's you can also buy at a minimum price.

I used to go watch the Pasalamat Concert or a Thank You concert from Mayor Duterte. I am pretty sure each of my friends whoever they are with, were having a blast. Yesterday, I recorded the ASAP show thru tfc and I just watched it a couple hours ago. It was a lot of fun watching stars from the Kapamilya performing at SM Davao. Davaoeños were having fun and enjoying the show and overall the festival.

Wat'sup wid ME!

Waz up! I't been over a week the last time I blah! I don't know but I just can't think of anything much interesting to talk about. I am the same ol' same ol piece of crap. Either I am working too hard or if not, just lazing around the house, spending time with the square-headed girlfriend.

Jen came into our house one time to pick me up for her baby shower. I was just gonna let her stay outside and wait for me but she asked for water...wahhh! I had no choice but to let her in and she saw how messy the house is. I usually just do general cleaning like every other week since its only hubby and I. And besides we seldom have visitors. I think I am lucky enough that our house is not that big compared to most of our neighbors. I guess because hubby bought this house when he was single and according to him never in his mind he thought that someone would put up with his crap. It was a 2 story house with 3 rooms and 2 and half bathrooms with a great room and a descent kitchen. Its pretty easy for me to use the vaccum cleaner. I just wished he'd buy me another one so I don't have to take that heavy vaccum cleaner up and down the house. I can't imagine those with BIG Houses like Jen :-) and most of our neighbors. nahh mamayat ko'g nilimpyo!

Anyway, what caught me behind is when I do the laundry. We had so much laundry within one week. Hubby's work clothes and pambahay double it with mine. Add the bedsheets and wash clothes, towels, a lot of little garments. Plus stuff from the kitchen!

On the positive side, doing laundry is very easy here compared to pinas where we have to do the kuso-kuso! I remember we have a washing machine but it doesn't rinse the clothes. We have to do it separately. Unlike here, we can't even touch the water, everything is done by the washing machine and when its done we just have to threw it in the dryer, viola! Folding is the very big challenge for me! I always end up leaving the clothes in the great room of which I can see them waving at me every time I leave and arrived in the house.

You know I always love getting mails but not the junk mails which I hated the most! We received them almost every day. I usually throw 'em in the trash especially the ads but most of them end up waiting for hubby to be checked wither its a legit mail or not. I tell you hubby is too slow in doing that. I remember one time we accumulated 1 box of mails before he decided its about time for him to do something about it.

Whine, whine, whine! Hala katapul pa! heheh ok i have to go watch ASAP performing in Davao's Kadayawan. I saw the first few parts earlier and it looks like they had so much fun. Tomorrow, i am off the house but I am going out with Jen hopefully... asa? mag Mall asa pa!

Jenny's Baby Shower

I had sooo much fun at the baby shower. Sonia, Guadali and Dora threw a shower party for her second bundle of joy and I was invited. It was my first time and it was great seeing Jen having fun even if the party was in her house. There were actually 6 of us- the three hostesses, Cez, Liberty and I. Most of the invited friends were not able to come due to some errands. Nevertheless, everything came out good and worth the effort of the hostesses. They did a great job planning it. It was also great being able to give her some things she will need as soon as the little one arrives. She's got mostly pink stuff's so I am hoping it will be a girl afterall. I can't wait to meet her ;-)

Dublin Irish Festival

Yay! Dublin Irish Festival was the first festival i attended during the first couple months I got here back in 2003. That time, we met up with JJ's friends Dave and Debbie. I did not bring any camera so I missed taking pictures. The next year 2004 we decided to skip it. This year we decided to go again to check out what's new.

It was held at the Dublin's Coffman Park. A three day affair which started friday, the 5th of August. Today was the finale.

The attractions were pretty interesting. They have six stages that features Irish Music and Dances. A cultural area which includes lots of exhibits, workshops, theater performances, and story telling. They also have Irish Marketplace, a lot of food vendors, a Wee Folk Area for kids with entertainment, games and crafts.

The weather was pretty hot. After a few rounds at the park, we decided to stay at the Irish Thunder Stage. We had a descent sit, although not too near to the stage. When we got there, everyone was having fun. It was the Baka Beyond concert. They were an original African Celtic Crossover Band that represents musician that represents a collaboration of musicians from northern Europe and West Africa. An african beats and Gaelic vocals were mixed, making their music unique and danceable. After the concert was a the Columbus Celtic Dancers. They were groups of adult irish step dancers using soft and hard shoes. Di ako masyadong na entertain...hehe matatanda na kc..tapos wla pa sya silang budget sa uniforms...wlang bihis2x from the start of the program till na tapos. Performing next was the NiChiara Dancers. This time I was pretty much entertained. They were the cutie, charming and graceful dancers. They were all dressed up too. Everyone was clapping after each performance. They also performed the Buckeye Dance in which the crowd were clapping and shouting with fun...most especially when they shout, GO BUCKS! :-)

Then we moved on to watch other displays on the tents. Lots of exhibits and musicians were everywhere.

What amazes me is the Sand Sculpture. They have an expert sand sculptors who carved tons of sands into a musical masterpiece honoring the 25th Anniversary of the Columbus Feis.

Unloading Some Heavy Loads

Ugh! I just woke up! its sunday 12:48noon. I can't remember the last time I have slept this good. You see, I am a morning person. Actually not! Heheh pano ba! The usual time I woke up is between 7-9AM. I said I am a morning person because hubby is the late to wake up....between 11AM-1PM?

On weekdays wherein we need to go to work for the usual 9-5PM schedule, we would wake up at 8am. On weekends, JJ has to sleep in and his wake up time is 11AM to 1PM. Duh! But I had to work on saturdays and the schedules were wacky. Its either 7AM, 7:30AM, 8AM, or 9AM.

Sunday's were supposed to be my "lazy day". If I had a choice I would want to wake up just like today...very late! But my body clock would wake me up at 9-10AM. And no matter how I would try to close my eyes, hoping to get more sleep, my mind was already wandering. So I end up getting up and spend my time infront of my "square headed boyfriend" while waiting for JJ to wake up.

Oftentimes, I get bored so I do unusuall stuff's like standing up in bed and danced around or do something frecky and funny just to wake him up. Sometimes it works but oftentimes he ended up yelling at me and would only make him frustrated. Ako naman nakunsensya!

I did something stupid in my other job. You remember when we went to San Diego? That saturday, I asked them not to put me in the schedule since I will be out of town. After we got back, I checked for the next saturday's schedule but my name wasn't on it. I was frustrated but at the same time happy that I can stay home. I am no longer happy working in this other job since I sent them a resignation letter back in March and they didn't let me go. Actually the 2 Associate Manager doesn't care, but the General Manager who also hired me asked me to stay and promised to give me the hours that I wanted. Being a nice guy as he is, I couldn't say no. So I stayed.

Lately, this other job pisses me off. Pano, the usuall 8 hrs. a day became 7hrs. Minus a 30 minutes break. And I've been called twice, 15 mins. before I had to be at work to come an hour later for reasons that they are not that busy and there were already too many people working.

After that saturday that they did not put me in the schedule I decided I would do NO CALL plus NO SHOW = NO WORK. In other words, I am provoking them to fire me. So early this week I did not check on my schedule. I also did not ask some of my Pinay friends if they saw my name in the schedule. On the other hand, I was asked by somebody to cover a shiff in my regular job. Its a 9-5 schedule which is perfect. I accepted it.

It was 7:40, the home phone rang. Hmm...I am guessing that they scheduled my in my other job and they were calling to see if I forgot or I was just late. Laking tawa ko. Buti nga! I am not showing up anymore, I better go to my regular job. Man, it was my other job nga, the General Manager left me a message but I am no longer interested to hear it. I've had enough of them.

Then I went to cover a shift of 9-5PM. Isip ko talaga na I would hide at the back kasi baka i-che-check ako ng General Manager. He usually get his groceries here and if he would come, he can always look for me. I knew he would be off by work sometime between 1-3PM.

Shoot! Tama nga ako! Huling-huli! Wahhh!!!! The next time I looked sa harapan, I saw his face, smiling! Kung pwd lang mag disappear sana ginawa ko na. So I went and talked to him. He asked, what happened this morning? Dammit! I was toungue tied. I knew this would happen but I did not prepare myself what to say. Nasabi ko na lang, Sorry...i went to check my sched. last week but my name wasn't there anymore.

He answered, but you were on the schedule today. Then I answered, sorry, I had to cover a shift for somebody here. I know its my fault. I am supposed to call you. Then he said, So are you still with me? I already talked to the other Associate Manager to give you the hours that you wanted. I looked down and told him NO. (Isip ko - Pangako, pangako, lagi naman napapako!) I've had enough. I told him right on his face. I am not happy anymore. I am not getting the hours that I've been wanting. The 8 hrs. became 7 hrs. minus 30 minutes break. Then you'd call me to come an hour later, and then when its slow, you'd send me home after 4 hrs. He back off. He said OK. Don't worry about it. I said sorry again. And that was it, he left.

I was so ashamed, para akong nabuhusan ng malamig na tubig. I went to the back at na hampas2x ko ang kasama ko sa work. Shocked sya sabe, hey calm down. What's going on with you.
I called Lynn and she told me that the General Manager kept asking her about me. I have no problem him, he is super nice thats why I stayed when he asked me to stay before.

Michelle, called me when I got home around 6PM. She told me that 3 people did not show up today. Kasama na ako dun! One was Lolita also a Filipina and one american woman. Plus 2 people quit just this week. Meaning hindi lang ako ang may problema. Laking tawa ko. Behhh buti nga!

Last night, we watched Casino dito lang sa bahay. I've been wanting to watch this long time ago. I saw some parts of this on tv and it looks like a good story starring Robert DeNiro, Joe Pesci and Sharon Stone. JJ bought it in Meijer the other night. It was a drama story set in Las Vegas between 1970 to 1980. A story about Ace Rothstein, a genius at gambling. He run the Casino, Tangiers in which the mid-west crime bosses set him up. The problem started when his best-friend since childhood Nicky Santoro was sent in Vegas. He is a mob guard who has a habit of using more brawn than brains to solve a problem. The story end up on killings because of envious and greedy people. A good story about greed of money, drugs, and power and how it changes peoples lives. Sharon Stone played Ginger, Ace's fucked-up wife who is also inloved with a pimp. Actually, she wasn't inlove with Ace's whe he asked her to marry him but he promised to give her everything, money and LOTS of jewelries.

Real good story! I slept passed 2AM while JJ was at the computer room. I woke up feeling great today...ahhh! No more hassles of working in that fucked up place. That mean's more time to spend with my "square headed boyfriend", tv, household chores, my Crosstitching career and to JJ of course!

A Wonderful Gift from a Friend

I am talking about this gift from a friend back in the Philippines. Her name was Vangie. First time I saw her was at the Gym and then nagkasakay kami sa jeepney, then at the tricycle going home. I got curios if she is also from Wellspring? So I asked her and she said she knew me by face, magkapit-bahay pala kami! Mukha daw kasi akong snobbish! heheh

If I am right, her house is 5 house away from my sister's house. She is a Mom who was trying to loose wait from the fats that she gained from pregnancy. After that, we became friends and would always attend the same session/class sa gym. She was really nice...sometimes we would just walk on our way home. Why not, we can always talk anything under the sun. Hindi sya boring kasama. I remember when Durian season came...OMG! We would buy one or two and we don't go home until na ubos sya. Sometimes we eat mango or durian while walking and talking...she is a real nice woman.

Well, the time came when It was about time for me to leave for Ohio. I had her met JJ and she gave me a crosstitched Precious Moments that says:

Lord, Blest the tie that binds - John- Lisa

Lisa that's how she called me. I was so touched and so I brought it along with me. Anyway, I just I had it finally framed at Joanne's and it looks so nice. I loved it! I would surely send her a picture of this to let her know that I valued her gift and that I really appreciate our friendship and she is always in my mind, even the distance and the short time that we were together.

Our Last Day in San Diego

Sunday: July 17, 05

Last night, JJ and I agreed to wake up early morning today so we can enjoy the pool and the jacuzzi. Unfortunately, jacuzzi was closed for water treatment. Dun na lang kami sa pool. JJ kept whining that the water and the wind makes him cold. So I just enjoy myself swimming while he was busy taking pictures. Then we packed our stuff and had an express checked out. Went to the National City for a breakfast at IHOP. He also went to Gamestop nearby while I checked out Seafood City Supermaket. Oh, did I mention that there was a Filipina working at the Giftshop of Marriott? She told me to check out Seafood City. They have goldilocks products and Red Ribbon, kuno!

We'll she's right. Meron nga sila, I was getting crazy looking at Pinoy groceries. Andun na yata lahat. Eto naman si Kano, sunod ng sunod sa akin. I told him to go away and just wait for me when I am done. Sabe ba naman, naw...i have to follow you so u will remember that our luggages are full and that you can't do grocery shopping here. There is no place to put that stuff. As I kept picking up stuff I can see him looking at me at akoy pinagdidilatan. Nevertheless, cge pa rin ako ng sige...wla yata eto sa Ohio. Hihihi! JJ was still d bes kasi in the end he offered to pay for my stuff. Then he drove me to Tatak Pilipino. This time, he stayed at the vehicle. I bought some DVD, Magazines and other stuff.

We moved on to visit USS Midway at the Navy Pier. It is an Aircraft Carrier, 47 yrs. began in 1945 and ended 1992 and became a Naval Museum. The first time I saw this was at the History Channel. I didn't expect I could see this in person. We had a complete self-guided audio tour that lasted for more or less than 2.5 hours. JJ was very happy and thanked me for my patience in going with him. He loves airplanes and shuttles and hoped to pilot one or two airplanes before he is over. Our last visit to the USS Midway was at the Flight Deck. It was amazing how it can carry those combat aircrafts. The deck was very huge covering several acres.

Working with an airplane was his first love. But then, that time when he was about to decide which carrier to take, the navy was on the down side. And so he decided that It might not be a good risk. Plus his vision was worst. Only now that he was freed from Contact lenses. He took the risks of having a Laser Surgery.

San Diego Sightseeing

Saturday: July 16, 05

Alas, a day of sightseeing. Kainis lang si Kano ba super lazy na bumangon. Jokingly I said, you will have a grand time sleeping when you are 6 ft. below the ground! Tawa naman sya ng tawa. Anyway, we started a late lunch breakfast at the Seaport Village. Then we walked around Hyatt to look for the Tourist Info Center so we can buy the ticket for Trolley tour. The 2 Information Centers that we visited were closed on saturdays! Galit na naman si Kano! Sabe, I don't understand why they closed on saturdays when everyone is up and about for sightseeings. Naglakad pa naman kami ng medyo malayo-layo tapos sarado lang pala...

Then we decided to take the train and just go to the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Turo naman ng turo ang mga tao dun....to purchase a ticket...go that way! Pag dating dun....wla naman! Hayyyyy! Kainis na!

Finally, I bumped into a Filipino aid worker...we talked on our language Tagalog 'coz he doesn't want to talk english with JJ. Nagkaintindihan kami and he told me where we can purchase it. Finally we are on the train. Arrived at the Old Town SD State Historic Park. Surprisingly, we saw the ticketing booth for Trolley tour and with the Trolley waiting for us. We purchased it and hop into the trolley.

The tour was fully narrated by San Diego's best tour Conductors. Covering over 100 points of interests. They combined the tour with colorful anecdotes, humurous stories and research historical information. It was a two hour narrative tour. Both entertaining and educational. I remember him always talking about "Spreckles".

Anyhow, the tour allows everyone to get off at any convenient stops at any popular attractions, shops and restaurants. When ready, we just have to re-board the next old town trolley.

We started at Old Town State Park
First stop was the Star of India and its neighboring ships.
Then, we hop to the next trolley and tour around USS Midway.
Trolley also passed the Seaport Village, Horton Plaza, the Gaslamp Quarter.
Conductor pointed out Hyatt Hotel and Marriot Hotel and Marina.
Then off for Horton Plaza. Then we passed the Coronado Bridge, going to Coronado Island....Wow, it was pretty cool.
When we're at the Coronado Island. We grab some food like pizza which really tastes good and I had spicy chicken wings. After that, hop into a trolley again for Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo.

Balboa Park. It was America's largest urban cultural park. They have a very spectacular museums and attractions and was also popular for weddings.

Jollibee Fiasco

Friday: July 15, 05

This morning, I walked JJ out of the hotel. It was his last day for the conference at the nearby hotel. After buying us some coffee at starbucks, I decided to go for a walk at the Seaport Village . It was SD's landmark for waterfront Shopping and Dining. They had A LOT of shops and galleries, restaurants and side-walk eateries. It was very accessible, infact the quarter mile boarwalk connects the Hyatt, and Mariott Hotel and Marina (where we are staying) and the Comic-Con International Center where a convention was being held. I just had to go out of Marriots gate at the back and Im already there. I like the boardwalk which is also beside the seaport. Lots of boat and yatch in here. While walking I can feel the cold breeze...perfect weather. As usal I was busy taking pictures. I don't remember going out without my camera. It was just silly of me taking pictures everywhere...including myself! What can I say, I am just a camera freak!

Anyway, JJ just spent about 4-5 hours today. It was their final session for the Burton Group Catalyst Convention. He texted me and asked if I wanted to have lunch at the Jollibee! Wowowow! Of course I said yes! It was already in our errr... my plan that since we are in CA we might as well visit filipino restaurant's nearby.

JJ was on time to pick me up at the seaport village, I was done shopping for some souvenirs. We head back to the hotel but instead of going out for lunch, we decided to just do it for dinner and we should just take a long nap.

At 5pm we are on our way to National City where the Jollibee is located. According to mapquest and 2 SD maps that we carry on, estimated time would be 10 mins. and a total of 5.39 miles from our hotel...not bad!We are supposed to look for the 8th street which will lead us to the National City but it jumped to 12th, 14th then 20's and 32nd streets. Holy crap, how in the world we missed the 8th street! and we have already been driving for almost 20 minutes. So we went back on our way, this time trying not to miss the 8th street.

Still we can't find the 8th street. We were confused to death. Then, we follow 1st ave. until we reach 7th ave. Hoping the next street would be the 8th street but to our dismay. We had been ghost chasing for almost 2 hours. We coudn't find the sign that would lead us to 8th street or the National City. JJ had been cursing out loud because he is frustrated. We even reach to the point of yelling each other. He pissed me off because he would drive down East while I believe we have to stay next or not too far from SD as National City is very close into it.

Then, he said forget about f*cking Jollibee! I started not talking to him, pouting and sulking in my sit. Then he said, OK I drive and you tell me where am I supposed to go! We did that for awhile but still - the evasive 8th st. I started calling the Jollibee's number but nobody answered me. He said...oh well, I guess it wasn't meant to be. Finally, he played his last card....to go to interstate 5. Told me, if this time we won't see the place then he'd surrender, I finally said yes since we've been driving around for 2 hours. It was so frustrating. JJ said whoever made this map deserves to be strungled! Yikes, galit na si Kano. The direction was pretty easy yet it was very hard to look for it.

The Interstate 5. We just drove for about 5 minutes and we already saw the sign - 8th street and then National City. We felt relieved and the rest was pretty easy to follow.

At the Jollibee, JJ was happy to see me egrinning ear to ear looking at the menu's. I was like a kid! I've been here for about 2 yrs now...(this saturday july 23rd). Syempre na miss ko din ang pagkaing pinoy. I had shanghai rolls and palabok fiesta with pearl coolers and a drink...(pig!) heheh JJ had a plain burger which he doesn't like because they over done it...it was kinda on the dark side (poor kano!) hehe I don't care as long as I got what I like and so far so good.

Anyway, I went home stuffed, happy and contented. I even asked him that now we know how to get there...if we could go back once more before we leave for Columbus. He flashed me with his astonishing expression, and said...we'll see!

National City...ka daming pinoy! and mexican's. I've seen a alot of Filipino restaurants, infact on the side streets was a lot of flags that says MABUHAY...and then some of our national flags. I saw Tatak Pilipino store of which I told myself...by hook or by crook...I will be back!

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Directions:

From:
333 W Harbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92101-7709

To:
1401 E Plaza Blvd.
National City, CA 91950-3613

1. Start out going southeast on W Harbor Drive toward 1st. Ave.
2. Turn Left onto W 8th St.
3. Turn right onto Highland Ave.
4. Turn left onto E Plaza Blvd.
5. End at 1401 E Plaza Blvd.
National City, CA 91950-3613

Total Estimated time: 10 minutes

Total Estimated distance: 5.39 miles

Hospitality

Thursday: July 14, 05

I spent most of my days at the Horton Plaza, while JJ was on the conference at the nearby Hyatt Hotel. I was walking on my way to the mall, about 10AM but the whole place was still foggy. Infact, it was chilly.

I checked out some shops before I decided to get brunch. The place was packed with people! I had to wait for somebody to vacate the table. There isn't enough dinning area for such a popular place. I spent most of my time at the Sanrio store...they are have a lot of trinkets, remember Hello Kitty, Badtz Maru, Cinnamoroll, Chocat, My Melody, Twin Stars, Chi Chai Monchan, Charmi Kitty, Chibi Maru and Sugarbunnies. I swear I could spend a whole day in here.

Guess what, I met a Filipina in an Intimate store at the Mall. She asked me if I am filipina, we chatted for quite awhile, until she had to attend to a customer. She was very friendly though. Finally I got tired of looking around. I already reach my quota for the day...heheh so I had to go back to the hotel and waited for JJ.

After some argument, JJ finally won that I will be going with him back to the Hyatt Hotel for an event called HOSPITALITY. It was a gathering wherein select vendors will have the opportunity to expound on their strategic plans and demonstrate their products. That was an opportunity for JJ to visit the vendors, especially NOVELL and asked them specific questions or just hear about their unique integration solutions. These vendors supply food, beverages and wine for quests who visited their suites. Each vendors has their own "pakulo"giveaways, raffle and entertainment. At first I felt ackward being with him on this event. He had to talk to each vendors. I was just listening and looking at them or looking around the suite. I had no clue what they were talking about. I told him i wanted to go back to the hotel but he won't let me go because he had to introduce me to his ex-boss who was also attending the conference. Later on, I became interested with the food and wine-s! Also with the giveaways! Everytime he's done talking to a vendor, they would give him a stamp for the overall raffle and give a little something like a battery operated car toy, plastic glove, cute-little wine glasses and much more.

PspThat night made JJ happier, he won a Sony PSP - Playstation Portable Console.
at least meron na man syang ibang pagkakaabalahan and pagkakagastahan! Inang ko po!

Anyway, I met his ex-boss. He was very kind and very chatty. He had a lot of stuff to talk to. He was always interested in knowing me, like how I liked it here and about my country. Yung bang hindi ako maa-out of place. He even invited us to visit his family in Chicago, the next time we'd visit the place. He was super nice. He gave JJ more than he is worth to be paid for. Kaya naman, he was JJ's one of the fave bosse's if not the most favorite. Kaya ngayon, that he got a new Indian boss who is based in NY, he feared that he'd be given lesser "evaluation" mukhang kuripot pa naman daw. So JJ decided to accept the Job that was offered to him, still in the same company but in some other department. He was hoping this time would be not that "complicated".

O sya, its getting late. I have to be in bed na...

Lots of photos coming soon!

San Diego here I come

Wednesday: July 13, 05

Everything turned out right on our separate flights. I boarded both Continental Airlines as an Elite Passengers. I was so scared that I won't make it and I will have a hard time finding my gate for my connecting flight. I just don't believe myself hehehe! What can I say, i am dumb most of the time. I left 6PM on my first flight for Houston Texas, the airline was on time which is good. John boarded Northwest Airline for Minneapolis but was late...errr! It didn't made a difference on the arrival time though. He said when things like this happened, the airline has the tendency to burn more fuel so they fly faster. When we arrived in Houston Texas, they first thing I did was to checked on the monitor. I looked for my Flight number and checked which gate I would be. I compared it to the ticket that they printed for me, but the gate was different. It says C23 but my ticket says E21. Then, I heard somebody announcing about change of gates. Passengers bound for San Diego pls. proceed to gate E21. Holly Moly, my ticket was right. I had to walk for a good distance though. This flight was full the reason they could'nt let my hubby in, same thing on his connecting flight from Minneapolis to SD. It was full that's why we had to fly on different route and airplane. John called me the very time his plane landed Minneapolis, he was asking if everything turned out right. I told him everything was under control. My second flight was late for 15 minutes this time, but it never changed the arrival time. I am beginning to like being an Elite passengers (wink), why not? Who does'nt want being pampared with food? heheh my tummy is happy the last two flights, while poor hubby has to look for his food. He only got water and he has to buy it for $5. I arrived an hour before John. I have to wait for him in the lobby. He arrived about 11:30PM, 2:30AM in Columbus. He was grinning when I saw him coming down to the lobby. I guess he was happy that I use my IQ this time, nyahaha! After taking care of the Avis car rental, we then looked for our hotel. San Diego Marriot Hotel and Marina wasn't that far. The weather as what I heard and read on some postings are perfect. It was sunny but then the breeze makes it great, not warm at all. Although the news yesterday said...90% humidity. It freaked me out a little bit.

OK, I have to wrap this up...hubby's has to go to his conference. I just sneaked our bragging este blogging when he was in the shower. He will be gone for the day and might be spending the day window shopping at the Horton Plaza.

He-he-he Buti nga!

LOL! I just get off from the phone. I lied very early morning he-he-heh! I called off from my other job. The last two weeks they've been calling me few minutes before I have to be at work just to tell me to come an hour later. Kainis ano? Ikaw ba naman you wake up early, pupungas pungas pa going to the bathroom and then when its almost time to go to the car to drive for work tatawagan ka at sasabihin come an hour later. Eh di nawalan ako ng gana to work. And then when you are at work, they will send me home early. I am supposed to work 8 hours. Then the new boss has been scheduling 7 hours. Minus a 30 minutes break and then they will send you home early. Nakakainis na talaga. Pakialam ko ba kung off season nila ngayon? Sayang lang gas and my effort in waking up early plus i have to make myself look good. I just don't understand why they have to hire too many people when they can't give enough hours for the employee. One of my co-workers said they were pissed off too because instead of working for 8 hour shifts, some of them were asked to go home after 3.5 hours or so. In my friends case, she was sent home after 2.5 hours....ano pa nga ba ang take home namin? Di ba nakakaasar na? heheh kaya I get even! I called off today sabi ko I had fever last night and I don't feel good. I have too many stuff to do today. Might do some laundry and prepare for the trip to San Diego. Might do some shopping at Easton. Might go to lunch and watch movie with our friend Doug. Basta, too many worthy stuff to do compared to working that fckng "other job"! Oppsss!

Leaving for San Diego

John will be going to a conference again. This time not in New York but in San Diego, California. And guess what? He will be taking me along with him! Yayyy! I am so excited...super duper excited!

What's freaking me out though is the fact that we will be boarding with different Northwest Airlines! OMG! How did this happened? Obviously, hubby's expenses will be shouldered by the company that he was working for. He has accumulated enough mileage (him being a frequent flyer) to get me a free plane ticket. My ticket supposed to cost us around $1,200 but he only paid 100 to get me a free ticket back and forth but the airline has to choose my flights.

I will be departing Columbus International Airport at 6PM for Houston-George Bush Intercontinental Airport. I will arrive at 7:40PM then connecting flights at 9PM to San Diego-Lindbergh Field, CA. arriving at 10:14PM.

Here's the deal, I will be sitting in First Class. Wohhooo! That means I get to sit with businessman and elite people. It's making me nervous at the same time excited for this flight. I bet this is the first and last time I get to sit in a First Class??? I wonder!

Hubby on the other side, will depart Columbus International Airport at 6:40pm (40 mins. after my plane left) for Minneapolis, Minnesota, arriving at 7:37PM. Then he will have a connecting flights at 9:35PM to San Diego-Lindbergh, CA. arriving at 11:17PM. Note: he will be seated in Economy class. hehe talo si bossing!

We will then be seeing each other in San Diego, CA. I have to wait for him for about an hour or so.

Hubby will be busy for the Conference for the next 3 days. That means I will be on my own during the days. I have to start thinking what to do to keep me occupied. Hmm...I know Marriot Hotels and Marina has a swimming pool, that's one. Two, probably check out nearby shops. What else? I still have to research what to see near the hotel. Mahirap na baka ma wla ako dun! I knew nobody there pa naman.

Surely, we can check out San Diego at night when hubby is done for the day. Then after the 3 days conference, we have 2 days to go where ever we want to go. The company has also provided him a rent a car that means we can go anytime, anywhere we want to go. Cool huh!

Returning flights.

Both of us will be boarding the same plane this time. From San Diego-Lindbergh Field, CA at 10:20PM to Detroit-Wayne County International, Michigan arriving 5:36AM. This is a 4:16 mins. flight. (Time zone changes)

I am sitting at First Class (again!) while him in Economy class. Gosshh! If there is vacant sit next to him I would probably move.

Then we have to change plane from Detroit, MI. departing at 6:27AM for Columbus, OH arriving at 7:52AM.

I just hope everything will turn out right as it is planned. My etinerary has a note that says: Operated by Continental Airlines. Goodness gracious! I am crossing my fingers that the planes will be on time. I hate waiting pa naman.

One Year Older

Yes! I turned a year older on the fourth of july. Everything was great and I want to thank my friends who were with me to celebrate the occassion. Thank you guys for the wonderful gifts, all your effort in sending me e-mails, messages and cards means a lot to me. You-know-who-you-Are! :-)

Thanks also to my Babe for the shopping spree! :-)

Our Melting Pot Dinner

i just had my first fondue at "the melting pot". it was an extraordinary dining experience for me. it was hubby's second time but its been awhile the last he was here so he kinda forgets the experience.

we had the following:

drinks: freshly squeezed orange juice for me; diet coke for hubby

first course: fiesta cheese fondue for both of us

second course: chef's salad for hubby; california salad for me

the third course: the center cut for hubby; breast of chicken for me with mojo fondue cooking style.

first off, our server prepares the tableside by warming up the pot right on top of the table. then she came back and poured the olive oil on the pot, then cheddar cheese, flavored it with mexican herbs, spices, jalapeño peppers and salsa. we specifically told her to put most of the jalapeños over the fondue. we also served us with fresh breads, tortilla chips, chopped apples, and broccoli for dipping.

then we had our salads.

chef's salad has crisp greens with roma tomatoes, cucumbers, sliced eggs, smoked ham and emmenthaler cheese, topped with sweet and tangy house dressing.

my california salad has mixed baby salad greens, roma tomatoes, walnuts and Gorgonzola cheese, topped with homemade raspberry black walnut vinaigrette dressing.

finally we had the main entree.

our server warmed up another pot with seasoned caribbean bouillon, garlic and citrus juice on it. this style of cooking is called mojo fondue.

she gave us raw chicken breast for me and raw center cut for hubby. i was a little bit scared when i saw it...heheh i thought that was it! silly me...apparently, the idea was to dip the meat into the boiling mojo for 2-5 minutes and dip it into any of the sauces. if i can recall correctly, there are i think 5 kinds of sauces and accompanied with fresh broccoli, portobello mushrooms, and red potatoes.

overall, its a one of a kind dining experience. the cooking style was very unique and the ingredients were fresh making it the best quality worth coming back for more!

Kennedy Space Center and Cocoa Beach (May 13-14, 05)

May 13, 2005

We got here after an hour from Disney. We were so tired that we had to take a nap. About 8PM we both woke up and as promised I took my hubby for a nice Dinner at Durango Steakhouse. We had Naked Nachos as our appetizer. We also had Oak-Fire grilled Bar-B-Que Baby Back Ribs and Western Cut Filet Mignon as our entrees. As a birthday treat, hubby got a free Mexican Fried Ice cream. It was real so good with vanilla ice cream coated with a crunchy ingredients, deep-fried and served up in a cinnamon-coated tortilla shell. Topped with honey and whipped cream. Overall experience was very good to excellent. We went our of the restaurant with bulging tummies and it hurts! We decided to drive around Cocoa Beach untill it was past midnight.

May 14, 2005

The next morning, was a visit to John F. Kennedy Space Center. This is hubby's one of fave place to visit...you know that geeky thing? hahah me naman was like...whatever! It was cool though to see the launch pad for the huge Saturn V rocket. Armstrong, Aldrin and Collin walked on it to the command module of Apollo 11. Unbelievable how tiny these Command Modules are. We also got to see the Mission Control Room where Engineers and Technicians commanded from the lift-off to splash-down. The we rode into a bus for an educational tour. While on our way, the driver which is also our guide tour pointed out the turtles, an eagle and birds. From a distance, we saw the Shuttle on the Launch Pad that was supposed to take off this June.

Walt Disney World (May 10-13, 05)

We arrived in Orlando 2 hours after we left Bradenton Beach. I was so excited the moment I saw “ Walt Disney World” sign from the road and driving under the Walt Disney World archway. I was taking pictures through the windshield of our vehicle. Then we arrived at the gate....ah the magic.

But wait! We lost our way to the hotel! Sheeshh! The driver too, must have felt the magic that he turned too soon to get to Port Orleans Resort French Quarter. Indeed, driving around Walt Disney World needs so much attention, as there are a lot of fascinating scenes to catch your attention.

We were at the front desk trying to check-in about 1:30PM. We were housed at Building I. First thing we did was to locate the room and checked if we would liked it or not. We're so glad we left our stuff at the vehicle because they gave us two single beds! We went back to the front desk and asked for another room with 1 Kingsize bed. Luckily, there was 1 room left at building 4 but they had to clean it first and it won't be ready until 5-6PM.

We looked for Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory for our lunch. I had Chicken Quesadilla, an orange juice and chips. Hubby had pizza and bought this Refillable Mug for $10.00 which has Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter Resort logo on it. It has free refills of beverages throughout our stay. Good deal huh?

After that, I asked hubby if we could go check out a Filipino Store just to kill a time. I already had the map printed out, so it was easy for us to locate it. By 5PM I was done grocery shoppin'. We then head back to Walt Disney World. While on our way, I called Walt Disney Information to check about our room. Darn! I had to call them back again 'coz our room wasn't ready yet.

We decided to checked out DOWNTOWN DISNEY. This place is the epicenter of excitement. The be-all, end-all of the big-city fun. Here you can find blocks and blocks of shops you've dreamed about.

First off we started at the West Side particularly in Planet Hollywood. Inspired by the glamorous world of film and television, they serve lunch and dinner. We saw Jenny shrimp boat from the movie Forrest Gump. DisneyQuest Emporium, its where a cool collection of Disney merchandise can be found. For music, movie and multimedia there's this Virgin Megastore. They also have Guitar Gallery store, Magic Masters, Sosa Family Cigars which is a premium smoke shop. Sunglass Icon that sells sunglass fashion from around the world. Disney's Candy Cauldron, Magnetron which is a collector-quality magnet shops. Man, this is where I saw thousands of magnets, decorated wall to wall. Hubby bought a few including a crab magnet. He bought it for me because I love crabs. He also bought a wheel of food magnet. It would be useful when he is undecided what to eat, and some picture magnets. We walked down to House of Blues, they serve a southern-inspired cuisine for lunch and dinner. They also have an indoor interactive theme park called DisneyQuest and Cirque du Soleil La Nouba which is mostly for acrobatic entertainment.

We walked through the Pleasure Island. It is mostly for adult entertainment. Here you will see outrageous clubs and wild entertainment that lets you rock the streets until the wee hours. Moving on to the MarketPlace. We had to pass into a small bridge and here we saw the beauty of the Sunset from the Village Lake. First thing we saw was this giant seafood riverboat restaurant called Fulton's Crab House. We almost ate here if only not for the priority seating wait. Next we went to LEGO Imagination Center. A lot of interesting stuff you can build while you are here. Kids are everywhere trying to make their own Lego creation. By the lake we saw this giant sized lego dragon. I say its pretty cool how they could make it looked like real. Very impressive. Next shop is the World of Disney. It holds the most unique collection of Disney merchandise. Hubby bought me a Mickey Mouse here and I love it! You want italian cuisine and award-winning list of wines? Portobello Yact Club is what you are looking for. McDonald of course is here. Then there is this store full of chocolatey goodness and exceptional ice cream called Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop. It is actually pretty full of customers waiting in line. They also have Earl Sandwich Restaurant featuring gourmet sandwiches, salads, desserts and beverages. After that we hop in into a california cuisine called Wolfgang Puck Express but nothing seems interesting so we checked out Rainforest Cafe. We are pretty hungry that we could not wait for our turn in the long line. John had to buy a VIP membership for $15. Its a wild place to shop and eat. Inside was an indoor rainforest creation with lush sorroundings, waterfalls, elephants and big acquariums...fake of course!

After that sumptous dinner, we headed our way home to the hotel. We are super tired but its worth it. At least our day was not a waste because we get to see Downtown Disney. Blessed the hearts of the Walt Disney staff's...our room is finally ready!



May 11, 2005

Good morning! It's a little late after 9am. I am so excited knowing I am about to be given a million things to do today. I am getting that “feeling” that I have left the real world and to enjoy everything I possibly can. I am grinning ear to ear as I was taking my shower. As usual Mr. Sleepy head was lazy to get up. I was about to get my breakfast at Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory when he just took his shower. I had Mickey Waffle with strawberries and my hubby's own concoction of coffee. A combination of real coffee, hot chocolate, and creamer. Weird or shall I say unique? It actually taste good.

Everything was ready with the camcorder and digital camera, disney attraction map's, and times guide we hop in into one of the disney's bus going to the MAGIC KINGDOM. I could not forget the feeling while we were walking through the gates of the Magic Kingdom. I have felt Walt Disney's spirit inviting us to come, enjoy and play. I was like, “wow, i am at the walt disney world!”. I don't wanna go home...flashing my big 'ol smile.

I could see the monorail carrying guest from Magic Kingdom to the Epcot parks. At the Main Street, USA was the Walt Disney World Railroad wherein one could ride an authentic steam train that stops at Frontierland and Mickey's Toontown Fair. We first enter the Town Square with The City Hall (guest services), Main Street Vehicles (horse-drawn trolley), Fire Station, the Exposition Hall hosted by kodak which is the best spot to get camera supplies. One of the packages that hubby bought was the Photopass where a professional photographer is found throughout each of the theme parks. We have them capture photos of US together and they gave us a a photopass cards. They will have the photos organized and i just have to log-on to their website and then i can view and share it online. Downside is that the photos are so pricey to order.

In one of the kiosks I saw some of the characters. Mickey is the only one I am crazy about falling in line to have a picture taking. A lot of shops on the block. Entertainment along the way is also provided by Dapper Dans Barbershop Quartet.The street ends at the plaza where we can see the breathtaking Cinderella Castle. We stayed here for few minutes waiting for the live show at the Castle Forecourt Stage. It was Cinderellabration! Here, Cinderella is crowned a princess on a sparkling coronation pageant with guests princesses – Snow White, Princess Aurora, Belle and Princess Jasmine with Fairy Godmother overseeign the event. This show is adapted from a popular production created for the 20th anniversary celebration of Tokyo Disney Resort in 2003.

We moved on to Tomorrowland. First we rode Tomorrowland Transit Authority (TTA). It is a seated , slow paced continuous loading ride located above the ground in Tommorowland. We first rode up a stairless escalator to board this attraction. This ride takes guest on a scenic tour of all the attractions in Tomorrowland like Space Mountain, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, Tomorrowland Indy Speedway, Astro Orbiter, Carousel of Progress, the Arcade, Galaxy Palace Theater, The Timekeeper, and the ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter. It is also a narrated journey..uhh...how could we forget the paging...”Paging Mr. Morrow, Mr. Tom Morrow." and... don't forget to "keep all forward facing tentacles inside the vehicle!"

Next we rode into a fast, bone rattling roller coaster called the Space Mountain. We reach the loading platform, we boarded a six-passenger rockets, seated single-file. I remember we entered into a tunnel of strobe lights and colors then we were thrust into the darkness of space via a roller coaster and it dips and swerves through the galaxy, shooting stars and glowing planets. It was pretty cool....although I admit I was screaming the whole time. :o)

And finally we rode the Carousel of Progress. We were seated into a rotating carousel theater which carries us into the homes of four generations of the same family from the days before the electricity to the present day. I personally liked the theme music “ There's a great big beautiful tomorrow.” played everytime the theater rotates again.

We are on our way back to to the Main Street USA when we saw this sassy moving and talking garbage can. It follows the guests and interacts with kids. The name is Push She and it looks very identical to the normal garbage cans seen in Tomorrowland. Im sure there is one person operating it. :o)

Back to the Main Street USA, we grabbed some food for a late lunch and checked out some disney shops. Finally its 3PM, the much awaited “Share a Dream Come True Parade” has started. The street sides were pretty full, and it was hard to get a good spot to take videos and photos, nevertheless we tried the best we could.

Bradenton Beach (May 7-10, 05)

May 6, 2005 Friday

Tonight we start our journey to the Sunshine State - Florida. I am somewhat excited for this trip since this is my first time traveling by car for approximately 17 hrs. excluding stops. This trip is nothing compared to our previous trip to Tennessee and Chicago which is more or less 6 hrs. This trip is like going home in the Philippines which is 17 hrs.!

We have a lot of errands to do before we leave tonight. First thing in the morning, my Babe's laser eye surgery check-up. Next stop would be Microcenter to exchange the stuff that he just bought last night for the camcorder, he bought CD-R instead of DVD-R. I on the other hand, has to do the final checking/packing of our luggage. Then, he'd pick me up so we can drop our lawn mower for service. Go to the Post Office to request them hold our mail, we also need to go to Best buy and while hubby was there, I also sneak out at Old Navy to buy something I don't really need. Last stop was to go to the bank and make sure “I” have enough to spend for this vacation.

Part of the plan was to get some nap so hubby can drive most of the night. It was around 6PM when hubby's cellphone rang, it was Doug, our friend calling us if we would still drop Flippy to his house. After that phone call, I was already up and about while hubby's still trying to get some nap.

We left the house exactly, 9:01PM, 30 minutes after, we dropped Flippy to our friend's house. And then off we go, finally on the road!

We had to stop to get some gas and food at Whitecastle 40 minutes after 10. By 11:50 we are passing the City of Cincinnati and entering the State of Kentucky.

Music, snap shots and conversations our weapon to injure this long and tiring journey.

May 7, 2005 Saturday

We're now in Corbin, Kentucky, home of the Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) and it's 2:22AM. We felt we needed caffeine so bad. A stop at a gasoline station would be ideal, we can buy coffee, use the restroom and pump some gas.

We are entering Tennessee State at 3:10AM. Knoxville City after an hour.

By 5:15AM we are in the State of Georgia. We drove over an hour before we decided we are too tired to go on. We stopped at a Rest Area and took an hour of sleep.

It's 7AM time to move on. Hubby wasn't so excited to be in Georgia because its a very long, and almost never ending state. Imagine, it would take more or less 6 hours of patience to drive this State! I got excited though when we passed downtown Atlanta because I get to see tall buildings. I dunno, but I am very much fascinated seeing skycrapers. Just like Chicago, its one of my favorite place to visit.

Finally, its 1PM and we are entering the Florida State but we have to drive all the way to the South (going Tampa) and its still a long, long way away so we are not that thrilled yet. Although we felt relieved that we are done with Georgia.

Were driving Ocala when we saw this Walt Disney World Information Center. Tired as we are, we felt we needed to stop for few minutes and check it out.

There was really nothing exciting in it, just usual information desk with a little shop.

We finally arrived at Bungalow Beach Resort around 6PM, located at Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach. We will be staying here until tuesday. It is cozy, little place. Everything we need is in the room. There is little toaster, microwave oven, mini fridge and utensils.

An hour after we went to Publix Super Market for grocery we need during our stay. After dinner, we went to watch for the beautiful sunset. It was pretty amazing! Then we went for a walk on the shore.

That night we slept like a rock...

May 8, 2005 Sunday

Geesh, its 11AM! Can't believe we slept that long! I think we deserved it anyway, since we are almost awake for the last 24 hours. I made a good breakfast and exactly 12noon we went for our first swimming in the ocean. Since we went out late, we run out of lounge chairs with umbrella. We just put our stuff into the white sand and off we swam into the gulf of mexico. I was surprised that the water was colder than was expected. But nevertheless we enjoyed it, the crystal clear water, no big waves, not too crowded beach.

3PM we felt that we needed to hide away from the sun as we have been exposed for a couple hours. We then moved swimming into the pool which is very small. Hubby was not excited to swim because of palm tree's flowers falling right into the pool. He even cleaned it for me and join me for awhile. After that, we took a good shower and decided to go for a ride and see the rest of the Anna Maria Island, our vehicle needs to be washed too since there were a lot of bugs stick unto the windshield. I snapped some photos while the vehicle is running, some were taken using the camcorder.

4PM we went to Good Fishing just to check what's in there. Nothing really very interesting except that its a good place to catch fish, there was a restaurant inside and a guy singin with his guitar. Hubby told me that there is this restaurant called Beach House Restaurant that has a good food and a very nice place to watch for the sunset. There is even a contest as to who can guess the exact minute that the sun will set. Before dinner time we stopped by at Publix Super Market and bought goggles for John and snorkle for me. Dropped the stuff to our room, then went to the restaurant.

We arrived at 6:30 but was dismayed with the waiting hours, 2 hours my dear! We had no choice but to wait. We thought we could still enjoy the sunset if we go out the restaurant's parameter but the buzzer that was given to us will be out of reach. The sun was near the horizon about 8PM, we have 30 mins. more to wait. I just asked hubby to go ahead and record the sunset and I will stay inside the restaurant and wait for our buzzer to go off.

Sunset at exactly 8:17, I have no idea if somebody guessed the exact minute. I don't care anymore as we are too hungry and excited as to what food they have. Finally, its our time to be feed. We had a good dinner though, in fairnness. This restaurant is just too popular that they couldn't cater the customer all at once! We were sitted at the covered gulf front, which is supposed to be a perfect view for the sunset. There is also a live entertainment and a shop for gifts and souvenirs. After that sumptous dinner we went back to our little bungalow and watched tv. Then decided we wanted that licky-licky from McDonald's. When we got back, we rub each other's back and off to the wonderland...

May 9, 2005 Monday

Today we woked up around 8AM because we wanted to swim earlier than yesterday. Also we wanted to get us lounge chairs with umbrella's. After we shared the breakfast that I made, we hurriedly went to the ocean and grab a place we can put our stuff safely while we are swimming.We both enjoyed swimming using goggles and snorkles, not realizing that we've been swimming for straight 4 hours! Me being afraid of the sun looked at my skin, realized that I had so much sun on my skin, and John afraid he's going to looked like a red lobster, we went back to our room, took a shower and go for a ride. We have been wanting to go for a ride on that bridge called Sunshine Skyway Bridge and at the same time he's been trying to find a good rib house for me. We were kinda lost in space after we passed the bridge and ended up in Churches. We had our food to go so we will be home before the sunset. We were planning to go for a night swimming but apparently, it's not american's thing.

We tried though but the wind was so cold and so strong, we are afraid we're gonna freeze our ass off. I went to the swimming pool anyway and swam a little bit. With my churches drinks, hubby took some photos of me while trying to do a commercial, I also have 1 goofy photos that looked very funny! Then we bathed ourselves as we smell like dried fish hehe....we watched our fave 24 before bedtime.

May 10, 2005 Tuesday

Woke up at 7:30AM to swim the Atlantic ocean for the last time. That was the best swimming we ever had. The ocean was so serene. Waves are moving peacefully. It was like an undiscovered place with only hubby and I swimming. Amazing how people did not realized mornings are the best time to go for a swim. Most vacationers were busy jogging, and tanning themselves. We didn't stay that long though because we had to check out before 11AM.

We left Bungalow Beach Resort for Orlando. Passing Cortez Bridge we saw drawbridge left up. Apparently that bridge is not tall enough that when a boat with tall mast will pass, the bridge has to be raised.