APRILFOOLSDAY-TODAY: : "Make-up Passion Revival"

Answered prayer+miracle~~the best Birthday gifts ever!

2010-03-31T19:30:00.000-07:00

I’m still in some kind of a 'slight' trauma. Teary-eyed as I type and recall. I need to write this.
GOD heard us..He saved our house from fire! I just received best gift of all, the greatest Birthday present ever!!!

“My heart dropped, but was relieved when I heard that 'it's over' and that our house wasn’t up in flames. But it easily could have been, we felt the heat already! I was terrified and crying and praying out loud! Thank You God the Father in Heaven for saving 'the fruit of my labor' I was able to built all these years~~Our humble abode ♥ ...Me and my Fam are truly grateful...Thank You Father in Heaven!!! We pray for those who have lost their homes during this time of crisis...We humbly ask your blessing on all those who suffered and got affected, even after the crisis is over. We ask this in Jesus' name, Amen!!!”

6am Saturday morning. I heard panicky voices…shouting…screaming! It finally registered on me, I got woken up by my mom shouting from downstairs telling me that there’s a big ‘Fire’ going on few houses away from us, instructing me to pack and save important things! “Pril, may sunog kila ka-Pelly(Felly)..i-save mo na yung mga importante!!!”.
I slept quite late that day, around 4:30am already (Insomniac here). I was so dizzy and thought I was only dreaming. She was yelling “Sunog”(fire!!!) at the top of her lungs knowing that most of our neighbors are still in the middle of a “dream”. I hurriedly looked at the window and blinked my eyes hoping that it’s only a bad dream, but it isn’t.
I immediately tried to call up myB. I took my big ‘gig’ bag which was just beside my bed since I already prepared my things for a “supposedly” rehearsal in the afternoon for Hyatt, straight to my Saturday gig at the Manila Hotel. Slightly having “OCD”, yeah, I said “slight”, I remember I was still “wiping” the first few things I've been putting inside my bag! Tsk! A few minute later, to my abject horror, I realized that “Ka-Felly’s” house was just like 4 houses away from us!!! I stopped wiping and continued stuffing my bag with my laptop, some money etc. Good thing, my handcarry luggage is always “intact” with my passport, important papers, cameras and other important "singing stuff", not for such “bad” emergency purposes but for “urgent” travels to come.
My mom continued shouting and screaming outside telling everyone to call fire departments for help. But yes, sad to say, Ka-felly’s house was already burnt down and the ones next to it(left, right) were already being eaten by the raging fire even before the nearby firemen came to the rescue.
I rushed downstairs. There is panic and smoke everywhere. The fire is getting closer and we can already feel the “heat”, especially in the back part of our house. My sis-in-law couldn’t even touch the stair handrails anymore! Half of the house just right beside ours, was already on fire!
I was going back and forth to save my clothes, shoes, gowns and even my lyric book, so just in case, I can continue with my work and be able to sustain our needs. My second cousin who lived nearby came with her daughter and helped me gather my things one by one. Most of the important stuff were placed inside our Jeepney, which apparently I call, “Jeepney for LIFE”. My nieces and nephews were all together inside the Jeepney too! My two brothers drove our “FX” and Jeeps, 1 block away from our street to keep the road wide enough for the incoming fire trucks. My brother’s friends came to help too. Some friends took care of the “saved things” outside, to keep away from “thieves”. Two of their friends, after saving heavy things like TV and fridge, came to help my aunts and cousins and to save more of my stuff.

Fear engulfed me like a blanket of smoke, when I heard someone shouting from outside telling us to vacate our house immediately! I was crying and praying out loud! My knees were shaking, my whole body was trembling. My heart dropped.

I still managed to go back and tried saving more stuff, but couldn’t lift a thing anymore! I don’t know how to describe myself that moment but I was crying and praying from deep down my heart, crying, begging the Lord to stop the fire!
Suddenly, fire trucks kept coming. One of my sis-in-laws called up volunteer fire departments and thank GOD, they all came! My youngest half-brother together with the other neighbors formed like a “human chain” passing barrels of water trying their best to help the firemen control and eventually stop the fire.
GOD is GOD and He is good…He is great! I was relieved when I heard people outside telling us not to worry anymore..”everything is under control”..Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!!! A miracle Indeed!!!

Merry Christmas @Toc;)

2009-12-23T18:04:00.000-08:00

Had another awesome Wednesday gig @ the Top of the Century. Tried this MU and call it 'Harshy-kinda-Smokey-Bluish-Purplish' Eye make-up! Lol ;p

Mini-Loots::E.L.F, some HK and stuff..

2009-12-20T15:23:00.000-08:00

..Was out the whole day with myB and thought of buying some Elf products. Good thing I didn't but online LOL ..I didn't know E.L.F is available here in Manila! pffft >:
I'm just hoping these products works..you know!;)

Former Mini-HK-room;)

2009-12-11T13:06:00.000-08:00

..Way back in '05 after our last gig in Japan ..totally different now..just thought of sharin'.. :)
..big HK plushes are in another room, all in 1 shelf.. ==>>
HERE

Another Wednesday gig make-up look:)

2009-12-11T07:06:00.000-08:00

..had another great Wednesday @ the Top of the Century :D

And as usual took some pix ..yep..some! HA! ;p

..I seriously gained weight the whole week.. ggrrrrr to that creamy-PEANUT-BUTTER!!! >:

..some kinda 'Cheryl-Cole-inspired' Make-up-galore ;p

2009-12-08T05:46:00.000-08:00

..Just when you're thinkin' lotsa things over.. practice galore na lang me!

Thought of trying this tutorial for my eye-look next week! ahahahay :D

..teka sinech ba tong Cheryl Cole na itoh?
I honestly dunno her..

lol google time..;p

It only took me like 6 min. for this eyelook.. nice trick from YT;) ..Pratice always makes perfect :D ..

..my humble 'Incomplete' Make-up station ;p ..with 'chichirya' (snack) on da side hehe ;p
..Thanks to Eguchi San (Me & Jen's BFF) for those pink MU-brushes! ..inside my Hello Kitty case <3

Love me some SIGMA!!!

2009-12-06T06:30:00.000-08:00

I haven't done buying online except for that 1 time deal I made just to avail a Hello Kitty water dispenser! (yes, Imma BIG, HUGE Hello Kitty Afficionado;) It's not through Paypal or anything that requires credit card. I paid it through bank-to-bank transaction. Li'l did I know, HK dispenser's are all over Greenhills Shopping Center! lol ;p

Now, going back to SIGMA BRUSHES ;p ~~~How can I avail of these 'Lovelies'?!? >:

Gotta keep those MU-brushes clean;)

2009-12-05T11:06:00.000-08:00

...uhmm ehrmmm..totally guilty here of not cleaning my brushes as much as I should! ..but not when I'm abroad. Maybe because I've got bigger space in a Hotel room to let them dry fast?! Oh well, good thing I'm done for now..will do it again after, maybe 2 weeks? weeehehe ;p okidok GO now and clean your MU-Brushes before Christmas eve! lol ;D

some 'Kim Kardashian-smokey-eye-make-up-inspired' look ;p

2009-12-05T08:34:00.000-08:00

Wednesdays @Toc

..my usual Wednesday-pica-pic galore :D
..Lovin' my old IXY Cam ♥ ..most pix are raw..
Thanks to Online Make-up Tutorials..tried this 'Kim Kardashian-inspired-chuva' ;p
..really, I should've bought those gorgeous Shu uemura or Mac make-up brushes during our Japan days!! darn it! too way expensive na ngayon kakalokah!!

Nephew's wish...

2009-10-26T06:03:00.000-07:00

My 7 year old nephew asked his mom the other day if they could go to the mall and buy some groceries. He was like complaining the whole day coz he run out of cologne, powder and some other stuff already. Talking about how he misses going to the mall and all.. kalokah ;p He even remembered the last grocery shopping they had..with me.. haaaayyy patay ;p
And so, I managed to convince my Mom for us to go to the grocery store with him alone, without his cousins, so he would 'feel' the 'ambience' once again, after a long hiatus! ;p

We ended up with 3 blue Baskets! I just forgot to take a pic..ahuhuhu.. More gigs for me LORD!!! ;D

For the rainy days...

2009-10-02T07:27:00.000-07:00

Got back home around 9pm from SM San Lazaro. Bought some groceries, budgeted though hehe ;p My 2 grown-up nieces accompanied me, mama's legs are aching 'cause of her Athritis. We rode a jeepney going to the mall in spite of the rain to save a penny..yanno ;p (para tipid hehe;p)

SM's super congested, there are a lot of so-called 'panic buyers', plus some peeps who want to avail of the 50% promo. I didn't bother to check those sale items 'cause we don't have much cash with us and the fact that it isn't important to buy newclothes for now. My mom just gave me enough money to buy some biscuits like Skyflakes and graham crackers which is my fave ;p We also bought packs of matches and candles, a spare mop with refills, snacks, more biscuits ;p, Zonrox, powder detergents, dishwashing liquid soap, Isoprophyl alcohol and yeah, lotsa biscuits for the rainy days! kalokah We didn't bother to approach the package counter and deposit the items we bought from the hardware shop since the line's too long, as in!
My nieces had to stay outside and wait for me to finish. haaaayyy susme! There's no available big cart so I had to settle for the blue cart with 2 baskets. People are hoarding different kinds of instant meals and snacks. I wasn't able to buy an inexpensive flashlight as it is out of stock already. The ones available are expensive and heavy duty just like the rechargeable lamp I like and I always plan to buy..Tsk ;p I know right, next time I have to buy it already!!!

I began to feel dizzy so I decided to stop and approach the counter with unbelievable long lines! If I had known that it would be 'that' long, I would've asked 1 of my nieces to fall in line while waiting for me. Anyhoo, I did reach the cashier without me feeling iritated hehe ;p I segregated the important stuff we need to buy from those that aren't so needed. Funny, I had to stop the cashier from adding the last few items 'cause I might run out of money. So I left those to avoid going 'over-budget' and also, my nieces kept on reminding me to save few bucks for chix and pizza before going home lol ;p

We had 'Greenwich' pizza and 2 orders of chicken-rice-spag-drink combo. We planned to go home before 9pm as they were told thru text messages that there'll be no electricity around that time. And thank goodness it isn't true! { Pagasa belies reports Pepeng will hit Metro Manila Friday night }

We ended up riding a cab after debating which transportation should we use, but since it was raining my nieces told me it would be hard for us to ride in a jeepney with grocery bags and stuff plus we still have to walk few blocks going home. hhmm made sense huh ;p ..such a thrifty aunt! lol ;p

I enjoyed my bonding time with my pretty-smart nieces and now as I type this word we are all hoping and praying here, for *Pepeng not to bother us anymore and just let those grocery items be our stock for the week;)

God bless us all in Jesus mighty name, we pray, Amen! :-)

**CLICK PIX to ENLARGE**

GM chat and stuff..

2009-10-01T11:58:00.000-07:00

Had a nice FB-chat with our very dear GM Mr. Andrew, few hours ago. Well, I caught him online...hehe ;pHe was worried about me, Jen and Kim and was happy to know that we're all okay. I was overwhelmed by the fact that he spent time amidst his busy schedule just to say Hi and ask if we're all safe and sound..and thank God we are! He's such a great friend indeed:)

I am currently working on this next trip with a 'change of concept' and waiting for it to materialize this week. At the same time my mind is preoccupied with *Ondoy's aftermath and *Peping's coming, plus my 'non-stop' family plans! Oh myyyy..ahahayy

I truly thank God for giving me this gig at the Top of the Century, every Wednesday for the month of October. Praise God hallelujah! As in Thank you po, GOD ♥
So, while waiting and praying for the next trip to push through, I can sing my heart out again without feeling deprived at all.

And honestly? I prefer and would really love to work with Mr. Andrew again with my whole Silhouette Trio but this time with "PLUS 1" (♥ ) ;p ..

I just hope and pray that the *Minister would open his heart and mind. The soonest possible time.

Busy? Oh crap! ;p

2009-09-16T00:47:00.000-07:00

I've been keeping myself busy this week by ‘trying’ to organize my things.
I intended to clean out and reorganize, I keep on ending keeping all the bags and packaging..WT$! It became an all week project. I wanna feel some accomplishment. Much easier said than done? Oh yezzz! ;p

I kinda finished putting all my $hit away lol, looks good but it still needs a lot of work. I need a better closet and such, to make things look neater and nicer. Kakalokah.. You gotta buy more crap to organize the crap you already have! Funny right? Ahahayy… ;p

I'm a li'l tired and discontented? Random, mixed emotions..hehe.. Can't buy new staff for our little abode, can't finish the middle, older part of the house. Yes I know we're 'fully paid', but in times like this, you need to 'calculate' and budget what's left in your purse to make it last. And I think I've been an 'expert' on that matter all these years!!! haha ;p

The weeks gone by fast since I've been ‘pretending’ to be busy. Lotsa nights when I worry and can’t sleep and tossed and turn all night. I've got a feeling I will too, tonight..Oh well, I should ‘really’ keep myself busy. Finally, I have a 'reliever gig' this Saturday at the Top of the Century. Thanks to Tita Lilian for her unendless support. Thanks to the featured chanteuse for being absent. lol Dayum! ;p

Target101::

2009-07-12T20:39:00.000-07:00

Talking about packing, suitcases, procrastination, plane ticket, departure, target date, 'ecstacy' and yes...Prayers ;)

August 1 or 1st week or 2nd week, I wanna start packing.
I am so getting really excited, to think that I still have a 'month' to go?!
I just wish I have a spare room, for me to start and stuff..where nobody can see what I'm doing or notice my 'insanity'..LOL ;p
How I also wish that I could "disconnect" while I'm getting everything organized and all. Like some quiet, uninterrupted moment of 'packing. weeeeee ;p

I am already starting buying and picking things up little by little here and there..hehe ;p
I'm anticipating the fact that I always have a hard time getting to sleep a week before departure and it s%*ks big time! People like me tend to experience it, prolly 'coz of the fact that 'we're looking forward to something?!?.
I tend to procrastinate, and I want to avoid doing those 'last minute thingy'.
I like keeping the house immaculately clean before I leave for a booking abroad and I kinda spend a great deal of time and effort, just so to put my mind at peace;)

I must admit that this 'time of my life' is different. No major gig for like 3-months. I usually, still have to sing till the day before departure. I used to have tons of things to do, like buying stuff for the tour, pack, practice songs, spend time with fam, friends, 'netting' ;p & just everything that needs to be done before the trip..like those last minute things to purchase, yanno haha ;p
The fact that I'm practically in an almost 4-month vacay here in PI, gives me a lot of time.. hehe ;p

Now I am just waiting for 'someone' to get all our documents.
Yes, we need to send them (Shangri-la) our passports for us to get some real concrete details, like our Visa, booking contract, hhmm what else?.. Ooh that very important target-departure date, written on the plane ticket!!!
I am excited. I am ecstatic to SING and WORK!
I practiced some 'new songs' and sent it to our pianist thru mail, I got my renewed-passport, I have my 'packing list' started, spent big-time effort for our band history/profile, and got my hair did! (the very impt! ;p)

I am the type who prefers major packing done earlier, than the day before a trip. Though, it's unavoidable that there'll always be the 'last-minute-galore'. ;p
But, then again, as I write this stuff… I should forget about 'the suitcases' atm and just relax! It's no fun that I've been sleep-deprived this past weeks. I better quit being restless and just keep on praying..
Yeah, pray..pray..pray :-)

Officially 9 this '09♥

2009-07-01T22:54:00.000-07:00

CLICK THIS
to know a bit more about Bench and April during their♥8th♥

JULY 2, 2009:: It’s hard to believe that we're on our ninth. It's been this long, yet it seems like just yesterday.. amazing to know how fast time flies..
After all of these years, thru the good and bad, we’re still in love, and being in love is the best feeling in the world. I wanna feel the way I did all those 9 years ago and the way I do right now for the rest of my life.

I believe there’s someone out there for everyone and I must say I have found the one for me. He is just incomparable! a fabulous drummer from a well-respected clan of great musicians, God-fearing, my bff, a great confidant, I love his family, his sister♥ and mom♥, his totality rocks plus that killer-sense-of-humor, that highly desirable trait he possess and the very plain fact that he loves me being "me" including my "whole entourage", makes me so proud to call him mine!

I LOVE YOU so much myBABY .. I LOVE YOU more than the countless reasons why I love you! ♥ ♥ ♥

..I just can't wait to sing with you playing this song ♫
on the PIANO..

GOD bless us this '09 and all the years to come...
Happy 9th year bebeko!!!

When the unthinkable happens ..

2009-06-10T02:36:00.000-07:00

My mind is whirling with too many thoughts. Too many things and priorities to consider and I am even thinking if this is worth a read..
But yeah, “what da heck” ;p

I had every intention of writing and getting my blog updated in a daily basis like I used to, but I just don’t have it in me lately. Maybe because of being too ‘preoccupied’, which is really frustrating.
I have had a doze of decaf just now and as I browse the net, I kinda felt like typing and sharing what I’m feeling and dealing for almost 2 months now since I arrived from Shangri-la, Delhi. I thank GOD It’s nothing to do with my 3 brother’s “old vices” but still, I am greatly affected. Singing is my passion and undeniably making me a living since I started, but this is the first time I’ve noticed this “phenomenon” at work, locally. Hotel singer slots are fully booked, bars too. Long-term singing contract are being required and those who seldom travel are given preferrence.

There have been lots of questions in my mind requiring a concrete answer.
My mind is full.
Expectations we create are sometimes justified or it totally turns the other way around, just beyond our control.
When the unthinkable happens we tend to panic. Well, I am now and holding on to GOD.

..need some update..yanno ;p

2009-04-07T23:32:00.000-07:00

Gosh! I really need to update my blog but I don’t have anything to say... Life’s been very busy. Owsy! Lol.. ;p

Almost 4 months had passed without touching my other sites such as Friendster, Multiply and a few other more.. and I don't know why?!?.. hehe..

Now, we’re back in Manila and spent my Birthday bash on the plane! What a blast!?! hhmm.. go figure.. Lol ;p

Christmas '08 update 101 ;-p

2008-12-21T02:16:00.000-08:00

"I haven't updated in a while.. Oh yeah, Christmas is coming!"

I guess everybody's working and getting ready for christmas. Well, the 3 of us are kinda "workin' it out" too. We've rehearsed pretty much enough christmas songs, I think;-p..
I remember my showband days, how the band members prepare and practice for some medley of christmas tunes. How can I forget those accapella christmas songs?..grrr.. such a "struggle" for me!LOL. Well, those were the days and I definitely learned a lot from the "struggle and all"..hhmmm..(?)

I bet some of you have already started wrapping presents or still planning for what you can have to eat for your christmas meal. ChristmasTime in the Philippines is just amazing and incomparable! ..Inspite of the ever present "crisis".
I always miss the fun but yeah, we gotta work and as for me, I prefer singing overseas and bookings abroad are most offered during this time of the year.

The staff, FOOD and the GM here has always been great and trying his best to help us out in everything we need.
We've been experiencing lotsa sound problems lately, as usual! haaay naku, what's new? :-( As for christmas presents, I manage to prepare 1 for dear Jen(ssshhh) just before we got here. I anticipated the fact that we barely go out, especially here in India. I better make it up for Kim, though.. ahehehehe..;-p We haven't gone to the malls yet except for church(but of course!) every sunday, same as before! ..ahahahay..

I’M NOT BORING YOU, AM I?LOL

Tactless Greeting 101:

2008-12-07T03:09:00.000-08:00

"APRIL??..Is that you?..You gained a lotta weight?!"...

Some people don't think twice of what comes first, out of their mouth.
They just don't realize how insulting and offending it could be, especially when you are greeted that way by a colleague who's making it big now, whom you have not seen for years, and not that "close" to you. Oh and it was uttered twice!..
What the hell do you want to imply?, What on earth do you expect to hear?, What would've been a good answer to that??..

Well, blatantly I responded, "Am I that obese?" ..

It ain't really "hurtfuI", don't really care what that person thinks about me but it's still frustrating. How people obsesses over their weight, ALL THE TIME!

..Anyhoo, this happened weeks back in Manila and, wala lang, just sayin' and sharing..hehe..

But yeah, I have gained weight and now I'm trying to lose some.
2 Kilos down and counting.. weeeeeeeee.. HIRAP!.. Help!!!.. LOL

abril's update:-)

2008-11-22T21:04:00.000-08:00

Left manila saturday afternoon around 3:30?.. 4 hour flight via Malaysia Airlines.. Stop-over in KL .. Spent the night at The Empress Hotel in sepang, 10 minutes away from the airport.. Woke up around 7:30am, had a "huge" breakfast at the Hotel's coffee shop.. Went to KL central after, through express train and had picture taking at petronas.. nice!:-)..Now at KLIA for boarding going to new delhi:-)

Random updates...

2008-11-13T05:07:00.000-08:00

A week ago Jen and I went shopping for our last minute "search" for additional outfits that we're gonna wear in India. We had fun. Well, I did, but not with the "expenses" per se..hehe..
We were like overwhelmed, particularly buying different kinds of BELTS!..haha.. I prefer wider belts, enough to cover my "Belly-bilbils", whaaa!! It's always me who has a difficulty on buying clothes, undeniably!LOL.. It was around 6 or 7pm, that we've decided to finally "end" our shopping spree, as we were about to get "broke"..haha..Oh yeah, little did we know;-p ..We got hungry after the "calculations" and all(LOL) and so we decided to stop at any "cheapy resto" and grab a bite to eat. I craved for Donuts and so we bought some at Go nuts donuts. I told Jen they have a meal that comes with coffee or any drink of your choice at a reasonable price. But It was kinda crowded that day at Promenade in greenhills and Jen felt it was too cold to stay inside. And so, we ended up bringing our donuts on a take-out plastic bag without the drink as we were about to approach -- CIBO! hala, too pricey for abril now a days! LOL,hahaha.. It's my first and should try it anyways, I thought..LOL. We had Mozarella dish for appetizer and -- shared a vegetarian pasta! Rapsa! I had coffee afterwards along with lotsa "chit-chat chikahan-chuvacheness" ever! LOL
I need to start bringing my camera with me wherever I go because of these "things" that would make a good post,hehe.. (as if!;-p) We hardly ever "bond" here in PI…. like shopping….or just hanging out and chatting, something else always comes up. I am the type who sometimes just wanna go out with friends or even with my Bebe and have a "Bowl"(LOL) of coffee, without having to talk!LOL. Well, It happens with mah Bebe, only when arguments "after-effect" is on-going!LOL;-p

Next week we are heading back to Shangri-la, India. With Kim and Jen. Can’t wait for that "time" to come, to travel and sing with Bench as my pianist! (even if it's only wishful thinking.. For now, that is!
I do whisper to GOD and in Bench’ ear every night when he is asleep..
(Even if he's in Makati and Me, in Sampaloc..LOL!)..

"extra rice!extra rice!!!"

2008-10-23T10:58:00.000-07:00

This week, All led to failure. Well, It’s nothing like “that” serious, I am referring to my weight loss “battle” over the past 48 years!LOL.. And yes it is like a battle for me since I’m a self-confessed “Big-Huge-Eater”! Oh and an “emotional” eater too,—meaning, I eat when I’m sad, depressed, stressed, much more when I am happy and ecstatic. Whoa! Every week starts with a good intention as I want to continue maintaining my diet. But it seems that it sets me back when I feel like I’m doing well.
I have been meaning to cut eating rice over the past weeks.
My sister in-law tried helping me out by preparing my lunch or dinner everyday. Oftentimes, I ended up being like a “taxi driver”, haha, “extra rice po..” I remember that line from my former band’s driver, Larry. He would always tease me whenever I’m- - -eating—Rice! Well, I grew up with four huge Brothers and I guess you can’t blame me ending up to be such a “Big eater”..hehe..

A lot of people tend to be sensitive about “size and image”. As for me, I want to maintain a certain figure mainly because of the outfits that I usually wear everynight, particularly gowns and dresses. Being a singer ain’t that easy especially with the “trend” now a days.
It’s more of like, “visually” demanding I could say.

I am in a “tight” budget now a days and wouldn’t want to spend big bucks for another new pair of gown or even a dress. Though I just did recently! Also bought an “ALDO”(my current fave brand of shoes) a month ago. I dunno, but when it comes to work, I’m willing to spend but wouldn’t want to force Jen on buying what I just bought, and honestly, that’s our problem eversince! I still have those gowns that I wasn’t able to wear during our Shangri-la stint since Jen and I prefer to wear mostly identical gowns or same fabric different style set-up of outfits. Those gowns that I’m talking about which I bought two years ago were a li’l smaller than I thought. It seems that I even got bigger than before? Hmmmmm.. What I know right now is that, I am seriously having difficulty losing some weight. Much more in deciding what diet would be good for me. I am the type who constantly eat meals all day long! I have lotsa favorite food that I want to eat even If I’m already full. And I completely do not understand why I do this. (grrr) I tend to binge on food lately and I know I have to do something so as to avoid not just gaining weight and all those “showing” cellulites, but more importantly to keep away from all sorts of sickness and stay healthy!

The past weeks started off well. Then with some disappointments I encountered, I again, want to munch anything I can get my hands on..LOL and sigh.. I forced myself not to eat rice at night, though “It’s all in my mind”..haha..
I know this ain’t funny. The “battle” rages on my nerves.

Jen and I are heading back to singing as a Duo and Yes, I must admit those tiny li’l old costume of ours need to go!

GODspeed;-)

2008-10-16T12:08:00.000-07:00

I'm having second thoughts on writing at this moment.

Well, oftentimes I do. I couldn’t come up with a single thread of thought.

I am happy and sad. But more of “happy”… We’re going back to Shangri-la, Delhi! In a month’s time.. Weeeeeeeeeeeeeee.. Well, It’s still “verbally” confirmed but knowing the General manager, It’s gonna be alright. I wonder maybe he's read one of my "stressed-full" blogs, Like these one's "WHEN OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS" , REALITY BITES? haha!
Yes, I’m happy but not because of the “thought of going back there”, but because of another great opportunity to work abroad, again! After a 5 month hiatus of earning foreign currency..hehe..

Sadly, I’m gonna miss my baby(Bench) and another Christmastime in Manila. Then again,We have to set our priorities and I know bebeko is happy with this sudden turn of opportunities for me and The Trio, I know;-).

With the rate things are going here in Manila? Some agents I despise, ‘cause of switching and swapping of singers and slots on a last minute notice? Some “Alias critics”? Delayed payroll? Egoistic F&B’s and Gm’s? Insensitive ways of “cost-cutting”? Some "Pips" with “ERE” , "Transformers" and ALL?… The very plain fact has been smacking me in the face for the past months singing locally, no matter how hard I try to avoid it... And so I thank GOD, Thanks to our GM-friend-Mr. Andrew, Thank you Oh LORD, for another answered prayer!

"GOD always makes a way"... Amen:-)

Jeco and Jenny Joson: Long-time sweethearts who have defied the odds...

2008-10-03T06:12:00.000-07:00

When JENNY told me that I will be one of her maids of honor, the first thought that went through my head was... What had I done to be blessed with such an honor? Did somebody just drop-out? Could I say NO and still get invited to the wedding, but more importantly to the reception? LOL.. Lately, I realized that it is actually an honour. And THANK YOU for making me one.

(Bench"Babyko" and I)
Jen and I became friends since our showband days. We're both very proud, former members of the First Born Child Band for almost 7 years. We've shared laughters and tears together, over a decade now! Good and bad times in between. We've come to know one another so well, that we have an understanding that goes beyond words.

And I'm just as glad as I can be. We're all there on your wedding day, With Jeff as the best man!Finally! after everything--- You planned for months. You stressed out over the smallest details. You drove everyone crazy. Out of hard work and luck, You've made it, Kumadre!

How beautiful you are in that gorgeous gown. How happy you looked walking down the aisle. How tender (and Torrid,LOL) your kiss during the ceremony. How sweet your dance have been with Jeff singing "That's all" in the bacground. As I watched you drink champagne and eat your wedding cake, I see the joy in your eyes. I wish I could bottle that love, wrap it up with pretty paper and a bow, and give it to you as a wedding gift. Then you could take it out on a rainy Saturday and be right back here after your honeymoon in Bohol and Cebu, eating and laughing and dancing with everyone. But I don’t think you’ll need such a bottle. The reminders of that special day will be all around you: in the photo album on your coffee table, in the picture frame hanging over your flat-screen TV,hehe.. and in the shining band (with dia..ahihihi) you wear on your finger every day. Use these reminders a source of comfort and strength during the hard times. And let them bring a brighter smile to your faces in times of happiness.
Though I'm not married yet or never have been, it doesn't mean to say I am not an expert on it. So, I would like to offer my own advice, "solicited" it is,LOL. To You and Jeco, always remember that special day. Remember how you felt right that moment and Let that feeling guide you through a long and happy life together. Cherish your time, stand together and take time to talk to one another. Put GOD, love and your family first, before your job and your hobbies. This advice goes to the groom---JECO, 1ST. She is always right, 2ND. She always needs some new clothes, 3RD. She never looks fat on anything,(WELL AS ALWAYS) 4TH. If she’’s right say so, and if she is not -say nothing!

To all those who came last September 28, 2008, You are the people Jenny and Jeco love the most. They’ve invited you because that day would not be the same without you. And you have made them a priority in your lives by celebrating with them.
There we were ……in celebration of not only where they are now, but the road that has brought them together.

Long-time sweethearts who have defied the odds. They have built a beautiful life and GOD has blessed them with a handsome and wonderful son like JEFF.

Lola Jen, Your church wedding may have been many years in the making, but was certainly worth waiting for. I am sooooo happy for you;-)
To love, laughter and happily ever after...

"Mermaid no more"...lol

2008-09-18T14:59:00.001-07:00

"This is it!"... I felt I needed a haircut already, only because it’s gone too long, and that Jen's wedding is fast approaching.. But not because it’s “grown out ugly”. It’s been nearly a year now since my last cut, yet my hair’s still growing out nice!(well,for me and some pips). haha!

At long last! After all my mom's "yelling", Jen's funny insults(haha), and some "burden" my sis-in-law and I felt in blow drying my "mala-Rapunsel" hair, I have had myself splurge on a new haircut that looks a li'l something like this- - http://tinyurl.com/4enh9e .. Well, almost! Just a li'l shorter,haha.. whoops..and without the "Avon" LOL!

It's my 3rd time at Razzle Dazzle Salon in Rada st., Makati. Though the 2nd time was only for a footspa,hehe. Their stylists are awesome especially my long-time, "hiyang"--hair expert stylist, JOEY;-). He's done my hair since my showband days back in 1996. From Jenny's introduction, to his "David's" days, to home service galore, with a bit "teleserye" touch of his life along the way!haha..
Go and look for him, Only If you dig it! ;-p

..Didn't have a chance to take a pic of myself, though..(sigh).. Btw, Thanks to JEN- -my sponsor..weeee ;-)

--->>(my old "serena" hair)

... YAY! I'm no longer a "MERMAID" ahahahay!!!

Heavy Rains and Monday..lalalala ;-p

2008-09-08T19:57:00.000-07:00

Got home an hour ago from our last recording session for Jen's wedding CD. Lucky to be home just before it rained. Yes, "It's raining..It's pouring..lalala" ..hehe.. and getting heavy now as I'm typing this word.
My half-brother who's already on his way to work, had to go back home to change his soaking pants..ganun kalakas ang ulan! He works in a call center and hopefully he won't be late as he is on probation.
My older brother got home again with torrential rain falling while driving his motorbike.. ingat lang 'tol! I always advice him to drive carefully especially when it's raining. There are a lot of motorbike incidents now a days and I just want him to be precautious at all times.

Whoa? Oh my, what am I doing? I have a gig at the Broadway Centrum tonight at 9pm and I'm still blogging! haha.. I guess have to prepare now and continue my "chika" later after my show.. weeeeeeeeee..Till my next--blahblahblah... ;-p

"..stress..stress..stress..type..type..type.."

2008-09-08T01:35:00.000-07:00

Just got home from my gig at Le Bar at The Sofitel. haayyy..haybu..hirap pag iba-iba ang pianist!
That's why I salute and admire those lounge singers who prefer to sing locally and haven't been abroad ...
galing nyo mga kaFatid! BOW! ;-)

Gotta sleep early, recording tomorrow with Jen for her wedding CD ... How many takes naman kaya ngayon,mare?hhmmm...;-p

♫TGIF ;-)

2008-09-06T01:36:00.000-07:00

Friday gig at Eshang was quite ok, i guess. The GM proposed a new set-up of show time intervals for all the performers. Still the first day they’ve tried, cant really comment much either… But yeah, The idea was kinda “weird” ..whoops..

I just miss being on the road!
..waaaaaaaaa.. ayan na naman ako mga ning… haha..;p
But still , back to reality. Time flies quite fast though, And I’m still looking forward for a brighter October.. Byahe here I come..I wish!...haha..

Gotta try sleeping early tonight or else dark eyebags would come finding me tomorrow .....ahahay!.....
I am used to sleeping late and waking up late since I became a singer. I guess most of us are like that right, “songer prenshiFs”?
I think, sleeping early would be of no L-I-F-E to me..(sigh)LOL ;-p

"Recording, wedding CD, etcetera..and KEN LEE" LOL;-p

2008-09-05T05:23:00.000-07:00

Jen and hubby Jeco fetched me around 2:30pm and went straight to the recording studio to meet Bobbet who did the sequencing of the songs to be used for the CD as one of her wedding give aways. I was too groggy while in the car because, as usual, I slept "kinda" late last night..ahem;-p.. But mind you, I still have managed to keep on talking along the way..haha! Jen surprised me with a bottle of our fave hairspray which I needed badly..as in!.. hehe.. You can only buy it in Mercury drug, only in that particular branch near her place. Thanks hot momma;-)
We almost got lost, Jeco was kinda confused which way to go, 'cause most of the roads look the same. I can't remember exactly what time we arrived..ehrmmm.. Memory..lalalala..LOL;-p
Oh and I was too hungry, haven't had lunch, Thanks to "Skyflakes" inside my bag!weeeeee;-)

Bobbet with sweet wifey Glo arrived few minutes earlier. We met the studio owner, Mr. Ricky Gonzales, guitarist of Parliament Syndicate. The place is more like of a band rehearsal studio. I asked the technician who among our local bands have gone to the place. He mentioned Bamboo and a few top bands which I can't recall! .. tsktsktsk..I need some Sustagen.. "memory gap" attack!LOL..
We didn't start right away as they were still busy converting the songs to audio files..hhmmm...
Finally, after some time waiting, They've decided to start with the song Power of two by Indigo girls. Unfortunately, The beat of the song was kinda "complicated" that made Jen quite confused and conscious at the same time. Well, me too!haha.. But modesty aside, took some focus, closed my eyes, grooved and snapped my fingers according to the "off-beat" while singing so near the microphone..LOL..haha.. naks!..modesty aside nga eh!hmmp ;-p
The next song in line was a beautiful piece called, "The last time I'll fall inlove" by Eric Benet, which was beautifully arranged as a duet for Jen and hubby Jeco by Bobbet Bernadas.
Jeco had to wait before his turn, I think he took a nap outside the recording room?haha.. And so, He's voice was kinda "sleeping"?or shall I say, "still sleepy"..LOL.. Jen on the other hand was patient enough to keep on repeating takes just to balance the "timing" with hubby's singing. Yet her voice was kinda "stressed" already with the takes and all. Mine too!
Well, I can't blame Jen and Jeco, They're too exhausted since we arrived. Jen said she woke up so early, around 6am.. Jeco came straight from work.. And maybe because of all the wedding preparations, that they just want everything to be done few weeks before the wedding day, for them to have some relaxation.. you know... "Beauty rest" and all.. ahihihi..;-)

My bebe came just before we're about to leave and I was surprised to know that Bench and Ricky(the owner), know each other..haha.. They did a recording session way back with Bobbet and were alternates in band gigs before. Nice! ;-)

Now, as I am writing this bloggy-blog, I'm beginning to feel the grogginess I felt earlier.. waaaaaaaaa.. "antok na ko!!!".. I still wanna share some great happenings after the recording.. We had dinner at Metrowalk, watch and made "pintas" a band that I won't mention.. hehe.. Bad noh!hehe..sorry LORD..
I'm sleepy now...zzzz
I've been meaning to write about what happened to "our recording session" a few hours earlier but rather just kept on browsing you tube and watched "Ken Lee" all night long. ..bwahahahahaha..kaloka sya;-p It was Bobbet who made me search for it since last Monday. He was really insisting for me to search and watch "Ken Lee"..

Omigollywow... Lols and lols everrrrrrrrrrrr... Till now I'm still grinning.. oh and I wanna ROFL!haha..

TO BE CONTINUED??...We'll see..weeeeeeeeeeee... nighty-night Y'all.. ..and Ken Lee.. haha;-p

"Nothing muchiessssssssssss.."

2008-09-03T14:18:00.000-07:00

Just about to take a shower. Will have a date with bebeko today.Still waiting for my “KOPI CUP”, Mama’s preparing it...hehe;-)
I guess I have gained weight after eating so much stuff..what’s new?hehe.. Yesterday’s my nephew’s 6th Birthday bash and I ate a huge slice of cake after my gig last night..waaaaaaaaa..rapsa;-p

Nothing much to update folks, shall go now and gotta hurry up Y’all!..Really hard to grab a cab now a days…grrrrrrrrrrr.. ;-p

"Caffein and crazy routines...";-p

2008-08-31T17:59:00.000-07:00

Just woke up and as usual, My drink has this one substance I can't live without--CAFFEIN! COFFEE TIME Y'all...haha;-p
My cup of coffee is often my favorite part of the day and surely did save the heck out of my days and just makes it calm..Love it!hehe ;-p
It has been a part of my daily routine, since birth!LOL and speaking of which, I have to prepare now and do my usual routine... Shower, dress up, make-up, hairdo, taxi, song list, line up, 1st set, 2nd set, last set, chika-cheness..hehe.., home, peejays, supper?haha, finally, LAPTOP and INTERNET!!! weeeeeeeeeeeee.. kaloka;-p

"Lotsa, lotsa thinking..." with coffee ;-)

2008-08-30T19:12:00.000-07:00

Lotsa thinking...haaaaaaaaayyy... It's time to start..."thinking"?LOL ..ahahahayyy...

I’m going to start looking for solo bookings abroad.. I’ve got offers coming but with a group... In greenland..whoa?..layo!!!.. Minimum contract is 8 months? ...hhhmmm ...likey... Leaving in December?...after Christmas?.. Will join "sheng" (a colleague back in japan) ..hmmmm...she's a nice voice..."kwela".. She told me to Pray to GOD and wait for an answer.. Well, I will, I am now... But what if my bebe and I just form a trio, still with jen, since they're looking for another trio to perform there in february...hmmmm... esep-esep..haha..

Between now and then I’m gonna spend some time getting my own head straight and logging a lot of my thoughts on here.

I’m fairly kinda certain I’m doing this for all the right reasons and that it can work for me.

"Winds of CHANGE"...

2008-08-28T02:32:00.000-07:00

After receiving emails from the GM's of Shangri-la,Delhi and Shanghai yesterday, I'm feeling somewhat restless, again..
The supposedly trip back to india after Jen's wedding might not push through because the GM plans to move and transfer, first quarter of next year. To where? He's still not sure. But knowing him as an "accurate" and reliable person, I'm sure in the end, Everything will be crystal clear ;-) .
On the other note, Shanghai's GM is transferring early next week to Shangri-la, Beijing. My wish of going back to Shanghai might not come to reality since the one responsible for our longest contract ever, is moving to Beijing.
I haven't told our pianist yet, about these "turn-overs". He lives in Iloilo and recently got affected by typhoon Frank. He keeps on texting me, even bought a SUN SIM card for unlimited call and text, Just to keep in touch and do follow-ups every now and then, regarding our next booking. I am concerned about the sudden outcome of opportunities.
Just FYI, We we're given the chance to stay longer in Shangri-la,New Delhi as well as in Shangri-la, Shanghai, they offered us a one year contract after our stint in India, It was on my previous blogs. But we have to decline Shang, India's offer because of Jen's upcoming wedding. We even told Jen that if they're interested for just a DUO, Kim and I are willing to stay.
I don't know if I have blogged about this, But I was offered to come back to Shangri-la, Shanghai, Just recently as a soloist. Well, technically as a DUO with Kim, since he plays piano and sings at the same time. The target date was last July 1, but for some reason, It didn't push through. One reason that kept bugging me is that maybe because I proposed to them to let me go home by third week of september, for me to attend Jen's entourage as I am part of it.
While we were in India, Jen and I talked about my plans of continuing grabbing opportunities while they lasts (LOL) and told me, she's okay for me not to attend her wedding. Not that I'm all okay and happy not to be there on her "day" but Kim and I respected her decision to have her church wedding amidst all these great, rare opportunities and so, she's kind enough to let us pursue our own plans. Our agent offered us to sing in Macau, after India but we have to stick to being Trio and that we should find an immediate replacement for Jen. Still, we don't have the guts to replace her, Mind you, we've been working/singing together for like ages!LOL.
Plus she didn't resign at all, She just told us that if we happen to have Duo and Solo offers, we can go our way and if after her wedding and we're still here in manila she's very much willing to travel and sing again with the trio.
But I don't know why, maybe I was too confident that Shang would compromise, that I took the risk of proposing my plans and that maybe they would give in, since they want me to come back? .. ahhhhh... Now, I'm confused.

There's this one offer I got, a Solo contract in Korea. Nice budget for me and the pianist, But again had to decline!.. because we were told that we'll go back to India after the wedding.
haayy..paulit-ulit ng kwento!grrr..LOL..

Another offer I got was from Phoebe (a friend who sings in jakarta now), A solo contract in Bangkok, Thailand for August. You know what happened-- I declined!...hhmmmm.. You know why..LOL
haaayyy..

But all things said, I know there's a reason why these things are happening. GOD will provide, I know. I am holding on to HIM. Well, Eversince!

With the rate things are going, I am now moving on and what i do here in Manila, I should try doing abroad and that's being a SOLOISTA. woohooo... Scared and excited I am!
Well, I'm gonna do this for now, If I'll be offered again, I'll just grab it baybeh,LOL, But of course without being desperate. Have to be on the right, fair track, Y'all.
I just can't wait till next year. I'll accept Solo bookings for now, Till the time we could be "Silhouette Trio" again...

I could sense the winds of change and opportunity coming soon.
I know God will take us on a journey beyond our wildest imagination if we choose to stay open and follow His will.

Wish me luck, PrenshiFs, wherever the winds of change take me next.

CARE TO KNOW? ;-p

2008-08-27T18:13:00.000-07:00

Wednesday update: A date with.."Mr.Muscle" ;-p

2008-08-21T00:04:00.000-07:00

I was supposed to have a date with mah bebe today. But due to "karen"(typhoon), Me and bebeko had to cancel and PRAY for tomorrow to be a sunny day..(Lord, please po;->)

Life has to move on and so I decided to just clean the house..nyahahahaha..kala mo kung ano..bwahahaha.. kaloka!
Lately, I have been lazy and mostly spend my day just lounging about.. haay naku!
Now? It's cleaning time around here..Oh yes! I'm not done yet, actually.. Had to focus on my laptop first while I'm waiting for "Mr.Muscle" to get "foamy"..yeahbah! hehe.. Bath time after, then should sleep early for tomorrow..weeeeeeee!!! ;-)
Since I’m at it anyway, I thought I’d write a post, depending on how things go, on cleaning... ;-)
In the meanwhile, I must get back and check "Mr.Muscle" before I get suffocated! LOL

Friday Update:"A Rainy payday" ;-p

2008-08-16T03:35:00.000-07:00

It was a rainy Friday, talking about the weather, and generally a “rainy” one in other ways.

Slept late last night (as usual), ahem.. I’m still being an “Insomniac” yanno!LOL. A noisy band on the street awaken me from a weird dream that I even cant remember.. haay! Checked the time on my cellphone just beside me..hay naku, ala una pa lang? or should I say ala una na?LOL.. It’s already 1’o clock in the afternoon and I still feel drowsy..dizzy.. Well, no wonder..hehe..
Got messages from Jen regarding the outfit tonight for E-shang… Another stressful thingy for me! So damn hard to lose weight, especially when reaching this age..damn it!LOL.. sowee for the words,prenshiFsss..
Had chicken adobo for lunch and a small amount of rice…weeeeee..kainez!LOL
After eating,ayun Slept again!..hehe.. Well, Just took a nap and tried waking up around 4:30pm for shower. Hala! I’m still super duper sleepy man! Dunno but It’s like, I haven’t slept for weeks. Super dizzy I am! “tira-tira” sabi nga sa teleseryeng “my girl” LOL.. Gotta fight my "antok" or else “rush hour” na naman ako..for sure..ahahay!
It’s Friday, Payday and raining man! Tried and tested that I would experience another traffic jam going to edsa. What’s new, mama?LOL.
I spent my whole Thursday just lounging about, so maybe that’s why…hmmmm.. That’s why I kinda got a lazy day on a Friday…hmmm..LOL
I was done quite early with my make-up and all, without cutting off my shower time..nice..hehe
My sis-in-law helped me again in getting a cab, as always, and I'm just thankful indeed.. Big deal it is, It's so hard to grab a cab now a days..ay naman as in!
Just got lucky again to ride in a nice taxi with a cool driver..haha.. we've reached the Hotel without feeling the heaviness of traffic..salamat mamang driver;-)
As I'm about to get out of the taxi, the rain poured heavily. I asked assistance from one of the hotel's guard and bellboy but they didn't find any umbrella.
I always have this black cardigan jacket with hood in my bag and so, I managed to cover my "bumbunan" with it..haay naku naman,oo! As I approached the entrance, I told the Hotel's staff that they should've extra umbrellas for those "non-VIP's"..LOL
Thank GOD, I'm early again for work..naks! weeeeee..
kainez pag late.. I got a minute late on my first night at the Edsa-Shang and I just hate it when I'm being late! bow!LOL ;-p

"Avow"

2008-08-14T05:04:00.000-07:00

Ahahay… I’m kinda mushy again, today…hehehe. I just had another great time with my one and only bebe---- bebeko. weeeeeee.. Kaya ito, happy na naman and just wanna share mga prenshiFs ;-p..
So bear with my incoherency. My thoughts now are not in order!haha.. Basta type lang agad ako kung ano ang unang maisip ko…

Yesterday, I posted a blog about GOD’s will and my unbelievable faith that in HIS time, everything will fall into places,
The right place and time.
So what’s the connection? anong koneksyon nun sa amin ng bebe ko? LOL :-p It’s because everything my bebe and I have been through, good and bad(no exceptions) led us the way to become each others God’s Will.. Imagine, We’re just “strangers” before, Di namin alam na magkapitbahay pala kami,LOL. He used to live in the same neighborhood in sampaloc during his teens. I’m just one block away from him..ahahay;-p
Years have gone by minding our own lives, Many things had happened before we were destined to meet each other. And I believed that everything that happened has a purpose, “There’s a time and reason for everything”.. Eto na yun! Hehe.. And happy ako sa “God’s will” ko! Oh yes, I am trusting our LORD GOD that my BEBEKO (my na, ko pa..hehe) will be his “Will” for me:-) .
I am seeking GOD’s power to remove all the “negativity” in me and the good and blessed relationship I have with Bench.
I don't want to be doubtful of God on how He has prepared & molded both of us to be meant for each other since the beginning.. All these, I’m lifting up to GOD for help & guidance, in the name of our saviour, Jesus Christ…I avow.

"I want what HE wants"

2008-08-12T06:57:00.000-07:00

I know what I want. And from experiences, I have learned that what I want isn't always GOD's will for my life.
I know I'll be okay, really. I am exhilarated to see what GOD will do in this year to come.
GOD knows. GOD will do what He wants in His time. And I trust HIM.
So even though I am battling with my emotions cause I wanna get through them, I am set firmly on the foundation that GOD's will is happening.

The turn of occurrence wasn't really what I had expected, as a whole, but GOD's plan is "supreme", that I have this faith that GOD will do what He wants,

and I want what He wants.

ABRIL on PMN...

2008-08-08T07:30:00.000-07:00

Pinoy Musicians Network that is...

Joined the site just a few days ago and having fun so far.
Thanks to Sarita Carreon aka "Saring" for the invite and linking me to this site,
created by her and hubby Marlou, both talented and great singers of URB band, currently performing at the shangri-la hotel, qingdao, China.
I Got to meet nice pipol, like Aubzie (Aubrey Canedo), so "coolet", wacky and a great singer too, not-to-forget-a-mention y'all!hehe..
Everyone can participate in cool forum threads and discussions like this one, A reply I made few hours ago:

 Introduce yourself here!
Posted by Noel on July 27, 2008 at 5:22pm
View Discussions                                   

Reply by april ramos 2 hours ago

Hello Mr.Noel, Hello everyone! This is APRIL RAMOS, APES or ABRIL, as I am fondly called.
I started singing after college way back in '93 with The Chorus Gold band and after a year became a member of The First Born Child band for 7 years. Both are sister bands of The Family Birth Control managed by Santi Bellosillo.
I went on solo last 2000, formed a Duo for bookings abroad with Jen, my pretty partner in crime, also a co-member of The First Born Child band.
After consecutive stints in Japan, We got an offer to perform at The Pudong, Shangri-la, Shanghai last 2006 and named our group as "The Silhouette Trio" and modesty aside, got to perform there for a year and four months from may '06 to aug. '07. After Shanghai, We headed to Shangri-la, New delhi and performed there for 5 months from dec. '07 to may '08.
As of the moment, all contract bookings abroad are "freezed" until end of September, 'cause of my colleague's upcoming church wedding this sept. 28.

I am now currently in manila doing solo stints in different hotels and some lounge such as, Sofitel Philippine plaza, Century Park Sheraton, Celebrity lounge in Broadway centrum and a Duo performance with Jen at The Edsa-Shangri-la hotel.

I have no kids yet, still single but "Unavailable" ,BOW! ;-p

▶ Reply to This

And there's this chatbox on the main page that kinda making me a "SPAMMER" hahahaha..lols..
So, If you wanna more about PMN, go and click the link above and "Join na lang kayo, Let's all have a good time!!!" (to the tune of that famous song from SAMPAGUITA) ahahahay!
Tara na mga repapips, mga senyor at senyora sa musika, pati mga "feeling senyorita" joke!
touchbase na 'tol! weeeeeeeeeeeeee..

"Reality bites"..EWAN!

2008-08-04T12:24:00.000-07:00

Today I woke up early. Well not that early, 10am, which is very early for me. Wanna know why?--- Mama’s shouting downstairs! Galit sa mga smoke-belching jeepney drivers.. haaayyy! I hurriedly stood up and kinda yelled back, “hello, mother may kanta ako later!!!”- meaning I need more sleeeeeeeppppzzz. But anyways, it gave me a chance to start this blog. Really this blog is a toilet for my thoughts. And I have a lot of thoughts, so they need to go somewhere.

Over the past weeks I have gotten too busy, not just with singing but thinking a lot about sooo many things.(lot na,many pa!) I had this “futuristic mindset”, tama ba? How do I call it? ewan! I am bothered and stressed and in a “panic” altogether! With family, lovelife, career, specifically our pending bookings abroad. Pending? Well, my partner Jen is having her church wedding this September and yeah, We respect each others priorities, Silhouette trio decided to wait till her wedding day and have agreed upon to travel after September, as early as October 1, perhaps? That is, if “the bookings” are still there.. I got an info that Shangri-la, Shanghai’s GM will be transferred to Beijing which is unexpected since he just got there(shanghai) late last year. And Shangri-la,India’s GM hasn't transferred yet? Are we going back there? I dunno, I shouldn’t be nega! I should think positive and count the blessings!(right, santi? ;p)

Oh my, what will happen next? I have turned down solo bookings, like in korea, Bangkok, Nagoya, macau..grrrrrrr.. opportunities man! “Strike while the iron is hot” ika nga. While I’m still single and YOUNG! Yun yun eh.. But I’m still undecided, unprepared to go solo abroad. After all, I’m still committed with the trio and I guess will have to patiently wait till October.

Reality bites, We do all have different priorities in life, kaming tatlo, si Kim, padre de familia, si Jen, blessed with a wonderful son and married and getting married—sa church!(this Sept.) Ako? 8 years nang engaged, alang anak, to top it all—“The Bread-winner”, Bow!

TAJ MAHAL :"The first experience"

2008-08-01T02:42:00.000-07:00

As for the story behind Taj mahal, built by Shah Jahan as a tomb for his favored wife, Mumtaz Mahal, that it is the world’s greatest “temple of love”, and that 20,000 laborers were used to build this marvelous huge tomb whose hands allegedly was cut off so they can never duplicate the Taj Mahal for anyone else, I am sort of into it and sort of not.

I am certainly not the type to go such a distance or who gets up early for sight-seeing, but given the opportunity to see one of the seven wonders of the world, is a different story.
We had the great chance to visit it twice. Was amazed when I first saw it - was shocked - what a beauty and unbelievable to think its a creation of man ... Amidst dust and poverty, you enter a gate, and there stands a creation of love.

The Taj mahal trip was originally planned around February after we were told that we’ll have two consecutive days off. Jen, who’s a sight-seeing enthusiast gathered info’s, asked and compared rates among agencies including Shangri-la’s trusted tour company. After talking with the Executive asst. to the GM of Shangri-la, negotiations and all, We were given discount and settled the total amount, each of us has to pay. Unfortunately, another major event was being held in Delhi that time and some roads had to be closed including the way to Agra, where Taj Mahal is located. At the same time, Kim was not feeling that well and some locals told us that it’s still kinda cold and that the weather would not be good for Agra trip. And so, the whole planned trip was cancelled and instead we all waited till the “right time” comes. Like in April, wherein Eguchi san, Our bestest Japanese friend, will visit us and surely will take time to see The Taj Mahal!

Mikiyo san, a Japanese regular guest of Shangri-la, Delhi, who watches our show frequently whenever he’s in town, have mentioned about his intention of treating us to a trip to Taj, sometime back in January and Weeeeeeeeeee!!! He came back in march and stick out with his plan, “A FREE journey to Agra”..hehe..

The “first sight” was last March 16, He treated us all the way including a sumptuous lunch and dinner in one of the best hotels and Italian resto in India. “Yokata ne”, Lucky us indeed.
We were swapping superlatives describing how wonderful this creation is. Unfortunately, We weren't able to visit and see it at night, but we were longing to, as apparently it is even more of a magnificent monument in the moonlight. It is said that the moonlit Taj is mesmerising to one and all.

The beautiful inlaid Arabic writing, and most as I imagined how it changes with the light all make for a delightful experience.

Sad to say, Taj Mahal is in Agra, the pollution and the touts are enough to ruin the experience. The dread of leaving the tranquility of the gardens will keep you there longer than expected, but that is OK as there is so much to explore.

The Taj Mahal, one of the seven Wonders of the World, was an awesome sight. The scale of the Taj was monumental in person. Though It's hot and we never expected it could be, We spent hours wandering around the Taj, its mosque, and the grounds, and attempted to take the perfect photo. We have some from local photographers but I need to scan it for postings.
We headed to Agra fort but There were a lot of tourists and it wasn’t quiterelaxing to walk the grounds. The mausoleum was pretty,though I find Taj Mahal more exciting. While you are in Agra it is well worth going to this place, as this is all part and parcel of the story. The story behind the Taj Mahal could make a classic Bollywood film as it is full of love, death, family and villains!
We really feel fortunate to have seen the Taj Mahal, not just once but twice! No photo can ever actually capture the pure beauty and perfection of it - you have to go there and see it with your own eyes to appreciate the place and feel the peace and tranquility.

When you get there it is best to spend a few Rupees and have an official guide take you round as the true magic comes when you hear the wonderful story behind the Taj Mahal. Good thing and really lucky us to have seen it without spending a dime :-)Thanks to our two generous Japanese friends.
The Taj Mahal demands to be seen with your own eyes and wondered at. You have to be here to see thisdivine love story unfold before your eyes....... A real lifetime experience.

CLICK HERE
FOR PIX OF THE 2ND TRIP to TAJ MAHAL and AGRA FORT

It's official, we're EIGHT! :-)

2008-07-02T03:16:00.000-07:00

It's April and Bench' 8th year anniversary today!(so what?LOL).. Eight years later and we've come a long way--as in!

I gazed at this picture and smile. I realized how we've come this far, that inspite of our "situation" we remain strong and inlove with each other. Love just happens when you least expect it. Who would've thought that Bench and I would end up still together for 8 years, for better and for worse? My friends never get tired of asking, "When are you getting married?". It's been 8 years now, same ol' question, same ol' answer! It is hard to explain and a lot of times, It's getting into my nerves already. (sigh)

Bench and I met through common peers. I used to do sessions with different bands that time and I happen to be friends with one of his singers, Del Inigo and good friend Calvin Chua. It was not love at first sight for me. Though I noticed him right away while playing the drums, Oh man, He's fabulous! I think Bench was stricken by Cupid’s arrow that fateful night..hehe.. To my great annoyance(haha), he kept staring at me all night long and kept on bugging Del to introduce me. He never let go of me since then(susme!). Though Bench was utterly charming and cute(uy,blush bebe ko:p) I wasn’t interested. Along the way of courtship, I'm kinda not "that" interested. First of all, He had his hair dyed in BLUE. Second, He's not that tall. Third, He's a DRUMMER! haha... But those three descriptions made me fall for him--naturally!ahahay:-) I love the way he carries his blue haircolor, parang Francis M.,naks! He's not that tall but he's a charmer and such an amazing,fabulous, great, yet humble drummer. Oh and his sense of humor is a killer, not-to-forget-a-mention.. bwahaha to the max!LOL. He became my boyfriend for the most shallow reasons which was, "I want someone who would not like me as a singer". Yes, he didn't know the first time. All along that night, He thought I was just a good friend of Del with Calvin watching their gig. He was very persistent. I liked the attention but felt he was too serious and all. But see, Bench had a way with words (think “bolero”) which would make any girl giggle. But nah he's not making bola that time!hehe..
Fear engulfed me when I began to fall in love with him. I prioritize my family that much and wouldn't want him to "suffer" the consequences along the way. But, He is willing.
His being grounded and principled and being a great, well-respected musician earned him "Pogi points":-p. Over-all, His personality made me fall for him. Oh yes!

For years, I poured over my singing just to improve my craft and help my family. Now I wanna spend the rest of my life with him, someone who's willing to embrace everything that I am, someone I am so proud of, someone who loves me, someone I Love so much.

I guess people change as they grow older, and unless your partner happens to change in the same way as you, you may well grow apart. Well, through it all we are a team... We are working together and trying to be supportive of one another. We are still in love and would love to walk down the isle with him,ASAP!:-p

It's been a good eight years and I look forward to the years ahead and say, YES, I DO!

.. I LOVE YOU BENHURRR!!! HAPPY ANNIVERSARY--sana wedding anniv na next time:p

THANKS FOR LOVING ME,MY BROTHERS, MY MOM, MY WHOLE FAMILY AMIDST EVERYTHING.. MAY GOD BE WITH US--ALWAYS.

THE LAST TIME I'LL FALL INLOVE..MP3

My 35th Birthday Celebration @ The Shangri-la,New Delhi,India

2008-06-29T05:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, it's a rather delayed post of my birthday celebration with Jen and Kim(our pianist) in India, but I finally have time to update my blog. Been really busy the past months or should I say—got lazy and got addicted with LIVE casting!hehe..
Yes I know, it’s been a long time. I don’t know what came up with me in India but after new year, I just got tired of Friendster and Multiply:-(

I came back last May 3 from Delhi and the whole beginning of the week was very stressful and depressing so unfortunately I didn’t have any time to post on my blog as I thought I would have the interest to do it again after my long hiatus. Then during the later part of the week I wanted to post but thanks to Bayantel’s slow internet connection speed, my site was down for a couple of days.
So here’s the very delayed PIX of my 35^th natal day. :-p

So I made that wishful wish!! Guess what??

Jen’s Birthday is arriving... Just few more days and we’re gonna be of the same AGE..Yippie!haha :D

Singing and "Gigging"..lalalala

2008-06-28T02:16:00.000-07:00

Mondays @ The Broadway Centrum
Monday nights with Bobbet Bernadas at the celebrity lounge of the Broadway Centrum. Show starts at 9pm till 1am..Kita-kits:-)
Me and Jen @ The Edsa-Shang
The Slhouette performs as a DUO with pianist and bassist as back-ups every TUESDAYand FRIDAY for the whole month of July, at the Lobby lounge of the Edsa-Shangri-la hotel.
Show starts at 8:00pm till 11:00pm..
Sabado nights @ TOC
Saturday nights with Bobby Cabral on keys at the Harry's bar of the Top of the Century..Show starts at 9:30pm till 1am

Me @ The Sofitel
Fridays at Lebar of the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel

Hiatuses of thoughts...(at kung anik-anik pa:-p)

2008-06-26T18:24:00.000-07:00

After a long hiatus,yeahbah,I'm still alive!.. just got addicted to another site and dealt with some family probs(what's new?).. Now,I'm back?haha.. who knows?..Well, I am back in manila and still "gigging" 5 nights a week..lalalalala.. I started singing here, a week after I arrived from shangri-la,new delhi.. Well,workaholic po talaga ang lola nyo,or should i say "sing-a-holic"..haha:-p..Things are kinda getting back to normal now...so, Welcome back--ABRIL! ..nyahahaha..misya Prenships:-)

@CNN IBN WIKIPEDIA

2008-01-05T14:49:00.000-08:00

..Had to wake up around 11:15 in the morning just to wait for our segment to be featured on CNN IBN. I just had few hours of sleep, hooked on the net!haayy:-(
So, here it is.. recorded thru my ustream! Not that clear, i know... I also recorded it thru my vid cam, focused on the T.V!haha.. But lazy @ the moment to upload it..hehe..:-p
In the meantime, take a glimpse of this shot while I'm waiting for the original copy from CNN IBN.
Thanks Charles:-)

WE'LL BE FEATURED ON CNN,INDIA!

2008-01-03T20:52:00.000-08:00

Silhouette Trio will be featured on CNN india, this friday and saturday. The segment basically is about featuring great entertainment spot and focused on us, of course!lol. It was supposed to be our off yesterday but had to cancel just for the shoot for CNN. But anyhow,they moved our off to thursday, which is today!:-) Yipee!!! And we'll have our day-off again on sunday, for january onwards. Isn't it wonderful???:=) Well, too much of the "OFF" topic.lol.
The video shoot took about 2 hours. The segment reporter had previously planned to take shots of us outside the island bar, which happened to be like a huge garden and damn cold! We were freezing man! Jen and I were like laughing as we walk towards the "set-upped" area. "hahaha..bakla, ang lamig!!..hirap mag-project"..lol.. But we managed to project in-front of the cam, since this is for CNN...haha! After the "projection" and all, we went inside the island bar for the next shoot which will be on-stage. We prepared 4 songs and just pretended that we were crowded!hehe..
The actual airing will take only about few minutes, however, we are so glad to have this rare opportunity.

We moved on to our regular set just after the shoot and really got exhausted afterwards. We felt "lazy" already to do three more sets. Well, after the shoot and all, We just want to take a rest and sleep. We had our late dinner during our second break and were dismayed to see some "late comers"! Whoa? we thought we could just do "effortless" songs. But to our surprise, They made us feel great on stage, They were really hyper as if we're like doing a concert! It felt like we're full packed! They live here in new delhi and so they have a chance to come back and watch us more often!..Good for us!

It was indeed a great experience, and had been a great night too, on stage!
..Can't wait for friday and saturday, gotta be quick and watch that segment and yes, I won't forget to ask for the copy!..won't leave india without it!lol!
:=)

"RESOLUSYON 101"

2007-12-31T09:28:00.000-08:00

As I look at myself from another's point of view and examine what and why I do the things I do, I am able to get a deeper understanding of myself.

I have learned so many things, especially this past year! About myself, others, and would consider, the world around me. "Big Deal or No Deal!",hehe..lol.
Seriously, I had hoped to improve upon my weaknesses..(w/ S!haha..)
First:
My Time management skills, needs improvement! Oftentimes, I found myself doing things with minutes to spare. I became so used to doing things at the last minute that I never thought to change. I started to even plan on finishing something at the last minute, not even thinking about doing it at an alternate time.
Second:
I need to have a "Routine".. Do you follow one? Well, I'm feeling motivated to really "practice" a routine from now on. Since this is not a regular feeling for me, I'm thinking I should go act on it.
Third:
A "typical flash of temperament", and yes, I regard it that way. I wanna be less "Irritable". With everything! I wanna wake up in the morning not feeling that way. Sometimes I do think the answer to being less irritable is to stop caring so much. People irritate me when they say things that I notice as stupid or arrogant. I sometimes feel (perhaps mistakenly) that I have to or need to make them see reason (or what I consider to be reason). I’ve found lately that if I’m talking to someone who irritates me, then it helps to choose not to care about them or what they’re saying. Then I can smile mannerly, nod a li'l and hope that the conversation ends quickly. Many things make me irritable ...and I know they shouldn’t.
I don't wanna end up saying something I would later on regret and I must admit, I'm not good at this one.
The whole thing reminded me that I am really not getting any less irritable. I don’t know what to do about becoming a calmer, more "unhurried" and relaxed person.
I’m not at all sure if i’m getting close to achieving this intention or not. I am certainly getting better at hiding my irritation, but i still get irritated easily. How do you stop yourself from being irritated?
I think that hiding my annoyance isn’t really what i want- i want to--- Not be annoyed in the first place. AHAHAYYY!!!...

As 2007 ends and 2008 begins, we all cease to reflect on the past year. People try their best to find a way of NOT repeating mistakes. We all look at the good times, Hope and Pray for more to come, what we need to take with us, to make us better. PEOPLE. :=)

NEW YEARS...RESOLUTION:

2007-12-31T08:01:00.000-08:00

A New Year's Resolution is a commitment that an individual makes to a project or a habit, often a lifestyle change that is generally interpreted as advantageous. The name comes from the fact that these commitments normally go into effect on New Year's Day and remain until the set goal has been achieved, although many resolutions go unachieved and are often broken fairly shortly after they are set. (source:Wikipedia)

"..Shukriya..Danyavad..Dhanyawaad" SALAMAT!:=)

2007-12-30T05:32:00.000-08:00

Suggestions and encouragement means a lot! Nothing like a good help of blog comments to cheer up an "insomniac singer",like me! lol!haha:=p (
With or without, Thanks for viewing and for taking time to read my "Balderdash Bloggy-Blogs"!hehe:-p

Salamat mga Prenships!!!...Uy,lapit na New Year!.."resolusyon 101" nanaman!!! :-p

TODAY WAS FRIDAY!

2007-12-29T08:26:00.000-08:00

Today was the most boring(not-so-much guest!) , "crazy"(fooled around on stage), tiring(early rehearsal) day yet, I think. This one will be brief so I can get to sleep. (ows?lol!)

I feel like routine is getting set into place now. Get up, COFFEE, rehearsal, and then suddenly it's 2:30! We are trying to work on some pieces that we haven't sang for a long time. Those songs that we need for new years eve. We'll perform on the 31st at the 19 ORIENTAL.
As we rehearse, We were suddenly inform by the island bar manager, that we're gonna have a video shoot and sort of an interview from a tv reporter here in new delhi. She's nice and pretty.
Jen and I were like surprised and bothered since we don't have any make-up on!..hahahaha.. But the crew told us that it was exactly what they wanted, rehearsing and wearing "casual" outfit and not too much make-up!haha.. buti na lang!katamad kaya!hehe.. And so, they began shooting us, telling us to just do what we usually do during rehearsal, like there's no camera on. The crew requested us to sing some duets and ended up singing, When you believe and tell him! What happened to the fast tunes?haha!.. The concept is for the new years eve preparation actually, They're gonna feature us like: The first filipino band in shangri-la hotel, new delhi, rehearsing for the new year. naks!lol. Excited and wondrin' how can i get a copy of our clip featured on T.V???

Guests came late at end of our last set, and were dismayed to see one of our "not-so-liked" guests who came with some friends! kainis, yabang tsong!grrrr.. He kept on requesting songs that you'll never bother to add on your repertoire!lol... feeling!!!

He requested for 2 more songs and since his friends are nice except him!, we granted his request(unwillingly!)

Mr. Andrew Steele , The GM here whose responsible for "these" great journey of ours(shanghai & india), came with his bestfriend and we ended up singing two more songs! ahahay!!!
But no probs! we're willing to sing one more set just for him, we just love this man!
... The bottom line, It was a great night of long talk and interesting conversation (OH! AND 3 BAILEYS TOO!) with the general manager and his friend for 37 years! :-)

CLEANING TIME!!!

2007-12-28T07:04:00.000-08:00

Today was cleaning time! "dusting", "vacuming", and basically, just to remove all the clutter!
I woke up around 3:30 in the afternoon, had coffee, called up room service to re-heat my left over pizza from last night's supper and just like what i usually do after taking a day-off, I clean! It's like what you call, "general cleaning"! I spent good hours of putting my things together, especially those "toiletries" I collect everyday!lol:-p
"Cleaning" can be tackled in many different ways. It all depends on what sort of person you are. I'm the type of person that likes to dash around my house and clean it all in one day. Others like to tackle one room at a time, or clean for a certain period of time. Whatever you do, make a plan and stick with it! There's nothing worse than having a bunch of half-finished projects all around your house. Well, I'm in a hotel now, so, I'm kinda lucky to have the "housekeeping" around. :-)
Christmas is over and in some way, I am glad. I like it but it's also nice to know that "New Year" is coming, time's getting faster, We'll be here till end of April or exactly May 2, and it'll be our first month on jan.2! Got my point?hehe.. :-)

"OFF is OVER":-(

2007-12-27T21:27:00.000-08:00

...We were supposed to go out yesterday on our 3rd day-off. One of the duty managers here invited us and offered to take us to a nearby mall and will show the nearby church as well. But unfortunately for some reason, It was cancelled due to an "unavoidable circumstance", he said. (parang excuse letter,hehe..lol) And also he thought that we won't go out anymore 'coz it's almost 4:00 in the afternoon when we ring him up and been waiting for our call since morning, like, 11:00am?.. Whoa?.. too early for meh!hehe.. Remember I had 3 baileys and slept kinda late?hehe..:-p
And so, he had to cancel our appointment with him and promise to make it up next time. :-) No probs!
Jen called me up and asked me if I still wanna go out? Nah, I told her it's too dangerous to go out alone and we don't have any idea where to go to?ahuhuhu.. "boring" day-off for us! Jen and I decided to have our dinner earlier since we're feeling hungry already! Good thing i still have that chocolate cake!haha!!
After dinner, We went back to our rooms and I had "ustream" on(till the break of dawn!lol!)...And as usual, slept late...but not so late compared to the previous nights!... improving huh?

Have you had a turkey lunch or dinner recently?

2007-12-26T23:33:00.000-08:00

I had one yesterday, Christmas lunch! Cafe Uno had to extend the buffet time 'cause yesterday's full packed. I couldn't remember the last time I ate turkey? Was it in jakarta?,during my showband days?..dunno and can't remember at all!lol.. tsk..tsk..tsk.."memory gap"!hahahaha..
I always enjoy "eating" during ChristmasTime, especially when I'm home... In manila!whew! sarap ng christmas sa PINAS! But honestly, I never thought that I would enjoy the food here. I never liked indian food, I'm talking about the other dishes, the taste is just great! Had to control myself! aaaahhhhh... hirap tsong!hahaha..lols:=p

Drinks, Compliments, "Stalker" &Supper on the 25th: MERRY CHRISTMAS FOLKS:-p

2007-12-26T07:05:00.000-08:00

...Lalala... Whoa? Had a blast a while ago! I mean, on stage.. "Tips" kept pouring in from an indian dude. Santa really came to town!hahaha.. But he's kinda "scary", looks like a "stalker"?... Well, yeah! I got scared! Good thing, The managers were there to "rescue" Me & Jen too! They took the care to actually "warn" us, not to trust those guys even if they're like, "big spenders"... Need not share the details. We're just so glad, He and His "gang" had left, just before we started our last set... Though, happy in a way, he gave us compliments, ah lot! Thank GOD:-)
TIRED!
The songs we did were mostly fast-rhythm songs as requested by the manager of island bar. We weren't able to do our "solo stints". So, no "breather" at all which made us really tired now!, Yet, M still "blogging" at this time!lol.. Oh and "ustreaming" at the same time! I had 3 BAILEY's, and kinda "wanting" for more?hehe.. "ChristmasTime" Y'all!!!
My bebe and I had "YM" a while ago, not too satisfied 'cause I can't hear him, can see him 'though:-) Still had to make a phone call afterwards. Missed him terribly:-(
I had tuna sandwich, soup, CHOCOLATE CAKE!, & hot chocolate for my supper!..WHOA???

"ustreaming" on December 23rd...

2007-12-24T10:03:00.000-08:00

December 23rd...Christmas time, ahead...missin' my fam and my bebe a lot!!!:-(

ABRIL in INDIA

2007-12-24T04:45:00.000-08:00

...I tried recording my routine before work, before singing, just testing if it'll work tomorrow since i'm planning to stream our show, LIVE, and record it at the same time..:-)

'ABRIL's CHRISTMAS in INDIA':=)

2007-12-23T07:10:00.000-08:00

Saturday night's great!..now, I't's a sunday, morning, and not yet sleeping!haha:-(.. Haven't posted those Pix I took during my off last wednesday, have been kinda "hooked" with "ustream", ahahayyy!!!.. I can't access "Live streaming", so I asked some help from one of the live "chatters" there and suggested to reinstall my flash player and shockwave.. and.. voila!.."back-to-work"..I'ts all workin' now:-)..thanks!.. I like this "Live streaming" thing, I'm planning to record or stream our shows here, LIVE!.. Kinda excited?..hehe.. "babaw noh?"..lol:-p
Ey!..MERRY CHRISTMAS na!!!.. goshy!.. no spirit here man!.. "sa puso" lang naming tatlo!:-).."SILHOUETTE TRIO", that is!.. HAVE A BLESSED CHRISTMAS AHEAD, PRENSHIPS:=)

..YOU CAN VIEW ME, 24/7(hopefully,if "in the mood",lol) ON MY USTREAM, LOCATED ON MY HOMEPAGE..SEE YAH?..SEE ME LIVE!LOL"-)

I'm ALIVE!!!..lol:-p

2007-12-23T03:30:00.000-08:00

HI "PRENSHIPS"!!! JUST TRYIN "USTREAM.TV"..YOU CAN SEE ME EVERYDAY---LIVE!!!HEHE..WELL, ONLY FOR THOSE WHO CARE & WANNA SEE "ABRIL IN INDIA"..HEHE..ENJOY!..MERRY CHRISTMAS:=)

Charice Pempengco on ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW - A Diva Is Born - Part 1(video from "FALSE VOICE",you tube member--THANKS:=))

2007-12-21T03:41:00.000-08:00

Philippine Star Article
Category: Life

LITTLE BIG STAR RUNNER-UP GUESTING ON ELLEN'S SHOW

FunFare By Ricardo F. Lo

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

After seeing Quentin Tarantino in Barong Tagalog when he showed up at the Golden Globe Awards nominations (to announce the nominees in the acting categories) last week, another pleasant surprise awaits Filipinos in the US when they tune in to Ellen DeGeneres' self-titled show today, Dec. 18.

Ellen's special guest is none other than our very own Charice Pempengco who finished third runner-up on ABS-CBN's Little Big Star search last year. See what they've been saying about also-rans turning out to be, well, "more noticed" than the winners usually are.

What's interesting is that it was Ellen herself who sought out Charice and insisted that she guest on her show.

You might be wondering how Charice got Ellen's attention. Anyway, Charice's fan who called herself "False Voice" uploads Charice's videos in YouTube.com everytime Charice has a performance. It so happened that an Ellen staffer saw Charice's YouTube videos and was impressed. The staffer called the attention of Ed Shapiro, Ellen's lawyer, and Shapiro wasted no time in finding Charice's e-mail address and promptly sent Charice a message. That's how their exchange of e-mails started.

Last Nov. 28, the Ellen staffer got Charice's contact number from Shapiro and, voila, after barely 20 minutes, Ellen called Charice and said, "Oh my God, I am your No. 1 fan. I want you here ASAP! I am so proud of you. See you here in the ..:NAMESPACE PREFIX = ST1 />US."

You know that processing of a US visa takes two to three months, but Charice got hers in only two weeks. Top-rate immigration lawyer and STAR columnist Michael Gurfinkel came to the rescue.

That same day (Nov. 28), Shapiro made a call to Gurfinkel's L.A. office and, within minutes, Gurfinkel ordered his Makati office to contact Raquel Pempengco, Charice's mother. On Nov. 29, Gurfinkel's office received Charice's documents and Gurfinkel's L.A. office filed a consultation letter from the US guild of musicians that same day. On Nov. 30, the guild approved Gurfinkel's request and, that same day, Gurfinkel's L.A. office filed the petition with the US Immigration. A week later, on Dec. 6, Charice got her O1 (Entertainer Visa) from the US Immigration. On Dec. 12, Gurfinkel, who rushed to Manila, briefed Charice and her mom on the interview with the US Embassy in Manila. Charice got her visa the same day. On Dec. 13, she was off to the US for her guesting on Ellen, a big first for a Filipino artist.

"Michael also helped Raquel obtain her (Philippine) passport and US visa," said Millie, Michael's wife. "I'm happy for Charice."

Charice started singing at age four and joining contests at seven. Before placing third runner-up on Little Big Star search, she competed in other shows, including Birit Bulilit (on IBC Channel 13), Batang Kampeon (RPN 9), Bulilit Popstar (GMA 7) and Junior Star Quest (also on ABS-CBN).

Last June, she recorded for Sweden Recording Company and last October, she was a guest performer at a talent show in Korea.

Among her favorite singers are Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Beyoncé Knowles and Celine Dion.

Meanwhile, let's wish Charice "good luck" on her big break in US TV.

2nd DAY-OFF: about to embark upon "Christmas(window)"Shopping:-p

2007-12-19T06:12:00.000-08:00

I love wednesdays. Well, as of the moment, since our off-day falls on a wednesday! "Strange"? isn't it?hehe..
It's usually, sunday or monday for us, musicians. The F&B director suggested the day and told us that sundays & mondays here are different, especially in december. Most of the time, the hotel gets full occupancy on these days and a lot of people would love to hang out at the island bar for some drinks and good entertainment. Christmas falls on a tuesday, so, We can't take it as our day-off.

I love restdays.(who's doesn't?)haha.. Sleeping in (till ??)lol. No real obligations, except for invitations like, lunch or dinner from some of the regular guests at the island bar.
We've met a filipina for the first time! She's with her boyfriend who works in one of the embassies here in new delhi. nakakatuwa siya! She's like, hesitant to invite us over for lunch or whatever, not until the second time she watched our show. We shook hands with her and her BF, as we always do with all the other guests right after the show. Well, not all the time!hehe.. kakatamad minsan!lol. So, ayun! She invited us over and suggested that we should do some shopping and roam a little around delhi since her BF could get us a driver to accompany us while we're out. buti na lang!hehe.. Kakatuwa, She kept on calling me the next day just to confirm everything we've planned and talked about. "baka daw I-cancel namin!"..hahaha.. Her cordial manner immediately made us feel welcome. She's "overwhelmed" by the fact that, she's found "kababayan". Well, vice-versa.:-)

Jen and I are about to go try to get a little Christmas shopping, or rather shopping or "window shopping" alone! Meaning that we are pretty much just starting today. We haven't gone out yet except for that dinner we had last wednesday. Excited?..Hmmmmm.. I dunno.. ewan?..

Well, I'm off to bed now, and enjoy the rest of my "restday",hehe..lol!.. As well as some..."shopping", for the first time in delhi! Ahahayyyy!!!

Tuesday and a Coffee

2007-12-18T19:24:00.000-08:00

How's the coffee today,prenships? I had some, as usual!hehe.. I just can't start the day right without caffein! I gotta say...that is one substance I cannot live without. No way. Nu-uh.

"Soundcheck..test MIC..1,2,3!"

2007-12-18T04:41:00.000-08:00

So, the sound's getting better, not that it's "perfect" by any means, though i think it is safe to say that improvement has been made. Who knows how long this "improvement" will last, but hey, there is!

..We had our soundcheck early today for like, the "Nth" time already?. Jen and I had lunch before the call time, she went first around 1:30pm and I just followed at the CAFE UNO, around 1:45?. We were scheduled at 2pm, so, I was hoping I could finish my meal before we start calling,"mike & tess" again!lol:-p ..hahaha..(funny!). But jen told me not to worry about the time, since she could feel that the "sound men" will be late again!(oh yah,I remember!). And so, I decided to stay at the cafe & have dessert & coffee at the moment!(ano Fa?!,hehe). After like, 45 minutes of "chit-chatting" & waiting, we finally started our soundcheck that seems to be endless, yet no improvement at all:-(. haay!
...After singing couple of songs & "testing MIC,123", "hi,lo", "volume up,volume down",(lol) things got better, I guess? although, The sound's "not that clear" yet. I would still want it to be at the right volume & at "tonal frequencies". I suggested to have the sound tested at the maximum level, like we're all full packed with crowd. Well, for us, singers & musicians, we all know that the "acoustics" of a venue often change somewhat once it is filled with audience. I guess, I just anticipated to make sure we can sing "effortlessly" even when we're crowded and also because, honestly, I'm not fond of having "endless soundchecks" at all. kaw kaya?(hehe)..

3rd SUNDAY in INDIA...

2007-12-17T03:34:00.000-08:00

I've enjoyed the "thought" of writing every day... well, sort of.lol. I wanna continue to post, but probably not every day. On tired evenings when I'm still recovering from a "throat dilemma" and all, I AM GOING TO BED. Not blogging. (ows,talaga lang ha?!lol:p)

SINGING AS I KNOW IT

2007-12-16T04:26:00.000-08:00

...Thank GOD, my throat problem's gone, well, i still can feel a li'l pain every time I "birit" or whenever i try reaching the lowest note. I dunno but, I feel depress or extremely sad in times I have such throat "dilemma", I feel I am deprived of singing songs that I know I am good at? well, modesty aside,lol:-). Even those songs that seems to be "easy", were like "hard" for me! "kainis!".. I guess it's the most "annoying" thing, when it comes to my singing. I'd like to continue doing this, "on stage!", as long as I can, as well as with my "Vocal Chords!", and If "my looks" would still "fit in" when i grow older!, like age 80?..ahahay!!!hahaha.. I really enjoy this JOB. I even don't wanna consider it as a "JOB", It's my "LIFE", I LOVED it! and am grateful to GOD, for this gift he has given me:-).

.. In the back of my mind, I like to think and tell myself, that my "SINGING", made some kind of difference. If anything, It gave me a better perspective and made a "difference" in my LIFE. :-)

FIRST OFF-DAY, FIRST NIGHT-OUT

2007-12-13T04:33:00.000-08:00

..Had our very first night-out on our first day-off with two regular japanese guests here in shangri-la,new delhi. We had dinner at a korean restaurant, 20 mins. away from the hotel. It's a good thing we didn't ride in a taxi, they rented the hotel's car, i think?, not sure though, but it's much convenient than the regular taxi. So sorry, but "the amoy" is soooo...ahhhh!!!... I know, you know!hehe.. The road's so dusty?, no tall buildings, some areas are OK 'though, Iike in some parts of jakarta. Other areas' like, I'm in the middle east? what's worst is, I even imagined, I'm in baghdad or somewhere devastated?(will post some pix next time).. I am not like complaining, 'though this trip wouldn't be on top of my list!, It's just what i see, i smell(lol), my own "insights".What's REAL. Honestly?, I'm still thankful and happy with this booking, this trip, for free, staying at the best hotel in india, earning and singing! with great crowd, great food, great staff:-), The chance to see india itself, which i believe, a lot of people would love to visit!.. We're looking forward to see Taj Mahal, probably mid-next year?.. (Hi Eguchi san!hehe).. Oh and btw, 'though we all had good conversation, fun and all, I honestly didn't enjoy the food:-(.. Japanese and Filipino food stays on top of my preference. "honto ni mo" :=)

"Separate Lives?"lol:-p

2007-12-12T20:35:00.000-08:00

..Just transferred to my new room today. It currently has King-size bed and a much larger space. Jen and I, first occupied a twin-bed room the first time we got here, less space & no extra drawers that's why we didn't remove some of our personal stuffs from our luggages. hassle talaga! but, no worries, "diskarte" lang dapat!hehe.. and I guess we're used to it na!.. The staff were nice,accomodating, contrary to my own perception! Every time I ask for a favor or something, their answer were like, "oh,that would be no problem".. bonggacious deba?lol! Well, It's just our first week here, too early to conclude, but I'm like being positive now after what happened last night, to which I prefer not to share..hehe.. no big deal naman,just like what I've said, everybody seems to be nice & pleasant and We just hope and pray It'll be till our contract ends:=)
.. I'm still "PAOS" by the way, and I don't why?!! "Stressed" maybe?, remember before we got here?..sooobrang Delayed and all!grrr:-( ..Oh well, I better, "Think positive, count the blessings"..hmmmm.. right?

updates:-)

2007-12-05T04:36:00.000-08:00

..had our first night here at the island bar of the shangri-la hotel here in new delhi..1st was ok,2nd, kinda..3rd & 4th--what a blast!..lucky 4 us 2 have a nice crowd 4 our 1st night.. THANK GOD:=)
..In our "fave" outfit ever!!!lol:-p

HAPPY,HAPPY _nth BIRTHDAY ICKS:=)

2007-11-04T18:11:00.000-08:00

...I am just so blessed to have FRIENDS like YOU,CHIE &THE REST OF THE KADA..The kind of FRIENDSHIP we have is "EXCEPTIONAL", some couldn’t understand how things are going inside "OUR CIRCLE"--"KAKAIBA"..hahaha..We just accept things as it is, no complications or whatsoever !.. We compromise if something happens in between...& What a wonderful support it is to know that you're still there and that you truly do care. I can't get over the amazing amount of help, support, & caring friendship that I have gotten from you guys and how you have helped ME in such sooooo many ways..Being FRIENDS with you,the whole kada,as well as with your "common Friends",has done me a world of good especially in my "SINGING CAREER" and my family can attest to that, My MOM& I sincerely THANK YOU guys! Our laughters and tears together made me stronger &gave me what I needed today. I am thankful to be part of “the Barkada”—“OA na kung OA” (kahit paulit-ulit)LOL:p.. You have all given me things which I never anticipated but am so grateful for… ILOVEYOU ICKS! I JUST LOVE YOU NO MATTER WHAT...

GODSPEED...ALWAYS:=)

"WORK-A-HOLIC .. SING-A-HOLIC"

2007-10-31T20:51:00.000-07:00

Since about 2 weeks it’s really been very busy( really now?lol) and stressful @the same time!- this is one of the reasons for the low posting that’s been going on around here... Have been damn "LAZY" too! We were supposed to leave this Nov.1 for Shang,india, but for some reason, It'll be delayed 'till Nov.10?... Dunno but I'm kinda disappointed with our sub-agent. I kept on asking for updates because of my local bookings. I had to inform my local agents with regards to my departure since it's hard to get substitutes now a days. I'm the type who wants everything "black & white" when it comes to commitments especially involving my WORK! As stated on my profile's "about me", I am damn WORKAHOLIC! & I just can't stand, not singing for weeks, It's like really "devastating":-( ... I turned-down gigs offered to me for november because I thought we're leaving soon, even if some venues agreed for me to sing as long as i'm still here in manila, meaning...'till the night before my departure--"grabe noh?". One gig of mine that will keep on going is my saturday slot @the celebrity lounge in broadway. Sooo thankful to the owner, and really happy that I'm still singing with one of the finest pianists in town--- Bobbet aka."Let's get it on, YO" Bernadas! :-)

1 of those "ENDLESS LAST NIGHTS"..lol:)

2007-10-29T04:39:00.000-07:00

...PILAR'S WITH HER COUSIN "BIBOY" , A FRIEND, AND A LOVELY NIECE WHEN SHE PAID ME A VISIT RECENTLY. HAD FUN & GREAT "JAMMING" WITH THEM! HEIDZ RENDERED FEW SONGS AND I SOOO LIKE HER SINGING THOSE STANDARD,JAZZY TUNES...IT SUITS HER VOICE ASIDE FROM BELTING,POP SONGS. OH, AND HER COUSIN BIBOY IS SOOO DAMN GOOD!.."GREAT" ACTUALLY!.. "GANDA NG BOSES, TSONG!" hehe.. AY SOOBRANG "SOOTHING TO THE EARS", "FLAWLESS" AND "BASTA!"..."LA NA KO MA SAY"... "sayang" WE WERE'NT ABLE TO CAPTURE THOSE GREAT SINGING MOMENTS ! ..tsktsktsk:(
...oooppss teka 5am na!..LOTSA THINGS I WANNA SAY & SHARE PERO LOBAT NA LOLA...SO,ZZZZZZZZZZZZ....:-p
...BTW, THANKS SOOOO MUCH PILAR FOR THE WONDERFUL PIX..MWAH..HUGS PA! ..HEHE:=)

"...kitty-share"...

2007-10-18T02:10:00.000-07:00

..m still awake and having a photoshoot with.......(drums rolling!!!)....HELLO KITTY!!!
hahaha...harharhar..oh yeah!.."DIS ORAS NG GABI/MADALING ARAW!"...
...lobat na ang IXY ko!..charge muna and as usual..."KOPI TIME"hehe..lol:=)
...hmmmm..luv the smell of my "kopi"...wait,"akyat na ko,baka magalit c kitty"..(..going offline) :=)

" A CHOCO (DAY)DREAM? "LOL:-)

2007-10-16T04:59:00.000-07:00

...There is nothing better than opening up your desk drawer at the end of the Monday back from a gig and finding an almost full bag of dark chocolate kisses and MEIJI CHOCOLATE BAR!!! I’m in heaven right now. :)

...WHADDAHHHH???...WAAAAA ... "NAKAIDLIP AKO"... JUST A DREAM MAN!!! LOL:=P

..."LA LANG", ONLINE FOR A WHILE AND JUST SHARING! NOW'S THE TIME TO "REALLY" GO TO BED AND SLEEP! .."GRABE! KALURKA!RAPSA NG DREAM KO!HEHE..:-)"... NYT-NYT FOLKS

THE VERY FIRST ONLINE SHOPPING-EXPERIENCE W/ A "KITTY-FRIEND"

2007-10-07T02:59:00.000-07:00

MULTIPLY IS THRIVING AND ALL SET TO BOOM?..Shopping online has become the norm and all over the world consumers prefers to shop online as it has many advantages. I DUNNO, IT WAS JUST "MY FIRST":=)

..HAD MY FIRST "ONLINE TRANSACTION" WITH A NEW FOUND "MULTIPLYBUDDY/FRIEND", MS.CHARMMYYVETTE(w/a double M&Y)lol:) LAST FRIDAY:-)I'VE JOINED MULTIPLY A YEAR AGO AFTER MEETING PHOEBE's FRIEND,JOAN, DURING THEIR SHANGHAI VISIT AND DIDN'T REALIZE THAT THERE ARE A LOT OF "KITTY FANATICS", OR SHOULD I SAY--"KITTY ADDICTS" LIKE ME, HERE ON MULTIPLY!LOL:)
I HAVE SEEN SHEILA's PAGE (my college buddy) AND WOULD VIEW HER UPLOADS FROM TIME TO TIME BACK IN SHANGHAI, ESPECIALLY HER HELLO KITTY PHOTOS! GOT EXCITED THE FIRST TIME I KNEW ABOUT IT AND WOULD IMAGINE MY KITTY COLLECTIONS BACK HERE IN MANILA:). I'VE MADE MENTION ON MY PREVIOUS POSTS THAT WE'RE ONLY GIVEN FREE DIAL-UP INTERNET ACCESS IN SHANGRI-LA AND SO I DIDN'T HAVE MUCH TIME "MULTIPLYING" :(. NOT UNTIL WE GOT BACK HOME, I HAD BAYANTEL DSL EVEN BEFORE WE WENT BACK TO SHANGHAI, BUT STILL, NO TIME FOR POSTS SINCE IT'S ONLY A MONTH VACATION BACK THEN. THIS TIME WE'RE ENJOYING 2MONTHS OF RELAXATION (really now?)LOL:-) AND SOME GREAT GIGS FOR MEH!(YO BOBBET!)...
"BEING AN ADDICT"LOL:-p...
ON ONE HOT AFTERNOON AFTER A LOT OF SLEEPLESS NIGHTS,LOL:),I SPENT ALMOST THE WHOLE DAY ON THE NET AFTER RECEIVING AN INVITATION FROM SOMEONE I BARELY KNOW,(I only had a few contacts before)(&now?as if!,hehe) FIRST INVITATION WAS FROM "Hellokittyluvspayou", NEXT WAS, "CHERRYLANE & CHERRYBLUE" & "CHARMMYYVETTE" TO NAME A FEW OF THE MANY KITTY LOVERS HERE:-) HONESTLY, I DIDN'T HAVE ANY SECOND THOUGHTS OF ADDING THEM, SINCE I'M AMAZED BY THE FACT THAT WE SHARE THE SAME "PASSION' &"INSANITY" FOR--- KITTY! I HAD THIS "EXCITEMENT" TO POST MY HELLO KITTY COLLECTIONS OVER THE YEARS AND SHARE THEM W/ MY FELLOW "ADIKS" HERE(LOL:-p)... WHADDA?..REPLY's KEPT COMING IN, REGARDING MY KITTY POSTS, WELL, SAME WITH THEM SINCE I ALWAYS INVADE SOME OF MY FAVE SITES PARTICULARLY, A KITTY AFFICIONADO, WHO GOES BY THE NAME OF--- "CHARMMYYVETTE":-) ...SHE SEEMED SO LOVING & SINCERE, THAT'S WHY WHEN I SAW THIS HELLO KITTY MINI WATER DISPENSER ON HER PAGE, I TRIED BROWSING OTHER ONLINE BUDDIES AND SEARCHED FOR ONE NOT KNOWING HER COUSIN IS SELLING THAT PARTICULAR ITEM TOO!WEEE:-) AFTER SOME QUERIES AND ALL, I DECIDED TO JUST BUY IT FROM HER EVENTHOUGH SOMEONE'S SELLING IT, A LITTLE LOWER THAN HER PRICE(On Sale).. "BASTA!","ANG GAAN NG FEELING"HEHELOLS:p... WE HAD A CHAT AND EVEN TALKED ON THE PHONE, W/C I INSISTED SINCE I DON'T WANNA DEAL WITH JUST "CHATTING" THRU "KEYBOARD":) SHE UNDERSTOOD AND ALLOWED ME TO CALL HER UP IN THE WEE HOURS OF THE MORNING!HEHE.. "GRABE" "INSOMNIAC" DIN PALA ANG LOLA MO!LOL:-p
..SO AYUN!"SWAK" NANAMAN!HEHE.."KITTY-CHIT-CHAT" EVERRR:=)
..GOOD THING I COMMENTED ON CHARMMYYVETTE's POSTING AND THANKFUL, SHE REPLIED BACK.
..PAYMENT's BEEN MADE... WAS SHOCKED TO FIND OUT A MUCH HIGHER SHIPMENT FEE FOR A KITTY MINI WATER DISPENSER & KITTY UMBRELLA... DECIDED TO JUST MEET-UP @ROBINSON'S GALLERIA ON A FRIDAY, HAD A DATE W/ MY BF ON THE SAME DAY(hehe:).. GOT MY ITEMS & SOME FREEBIES FROM"YVETTATION"hehe..& TOOK SOME PIX(galeng may digicam dala!)AHAHAY!!... HAD A QUICK TALK W/JOHN, HER HUBBY,SHARED SOME INTERESTS..AIRGUN FOR JOHN & "TRANSFORMERS" FOR MAH BEBE!HEHE:-).. QUICK KITTY-CHAT!.. PARTED WAYS & TX-TX EACH OTHER WITH SO MUCH "THANK-YOU's" ,"WELCOME's". "HALER's &.."GOODBYE's"LOL:-)
...THANKS CHARMMYVETTE,GODSPEED ALWAYS:-)

...That’s my first online shopping. I wanted 1 HELLO KITTY ITEM and spent time trying to find it everywhere I know. Then I have no way, so I go online to search it, I am traditional and don’t like to buy from online store. But this time I found 1 at my first sight(lol)..Woo…. good! I couldn’t describe my feeling at that moment, even more excited. (over?nah,nah)(we're talking about kitty here)lol:-)

gigs!

2007-09-29T14:06:00.000-07:00

Monday nights @TOC...(EXTENDED) ..GOD is good!..INDEED:-)
I'll be featured @The Harry's bar of The Century Park Hotel, all mondays of OCTOBER AND SABADO NIGHTS @THE CELEBRITY LOUNGE WITH MY OH SO FAVE "EXTRA-ORDINAIRE" PIANIST...BOBBET BERNADAS "LET'S GET IT ON Y'ALL":-)

HELLO KITTY, WAY TO GO!

2007-09-24T03:26:00.000-07:00

A Superstar of the Character World Turns 30 (April 2, 2004)

Hello Kitty, the little white cat from Japan who is getting right up there with Mickey Mouse in terms of worldwide name recognition, turns 30 this year. While there are other characters of equally long-standing popularity, Hello Kitty is unique in that her physical appearance has not changed a bit since she made her debut. Characters typically undergo changes over the years, from minor alterations to all-out makeovers. But after all this time, Hello Kitty still has that same humanlike seated posture; that same oversized head; that same blank yet somehow cute facial expression.

The Story Behind the Character
Hello Kitty is one of several characters owned by Sanrio Co. First known as Yamanashi Silk Center Co., Sanrio was established in 1960 by Tsuji Shintaro. Seeking to enter a business that would offer high returns on a low initial investment, Tsuji initially considered getting into purchasing and commercializing patents. But patents are effective for only 20 years. Learning that copyrights remain in force for as long as 50 years, he decided that this was the business to be in, and he turned his thoughts to devising characters. Yamanashi Silk Center's name was changed to Sanrio in 1973, and Hello Kitty was born in 1974. At the time, Tsuji never dreamed that this little white kitten would grow to the stature of a Mickey Mouse or Snoopy.

Hello Kitty was created by Shimizu Yuko, a designer with Sanrio at the time. One of the products Shimizu designed for the company was purses. She designed many different wallets, but of all the ones she created, only the ones bearing the likeness of the little white cat seated in a humanlike posture were flying off the shelves. Witnessing the popularity of the cat, who did not yet even have a name, Sanrio moved quickly to develop her into a full-fledged character and give her a solo debut. Sanrio had found in a survey that the public's favorite three animal characters were dogs, cats, and bears. It already had dog and bear characters, so it decided to commercialize the cat. A variety of products were produced, including stuffed dolls, handkerchiefs, and stationery items, and not a single one with Hello Kitty's image on it failed to sell.

Sanrio went on to create twin sisters and parents for Hello Kitty. And in 1999 the little white cat got a boyfriend. But the only character that has remained popular in the long term has been the original Hello Kitty herself. The Hello Kitty empire now extends not merely to food items, electronic goods, and fashion accessories but even to cosmetics and precious metals. And in cooperation with the prestigious French design house Givenchy, Sanrio has developed a Hello Kitty perfume.
Hello Kitty Ventures Forth into the World
The first Hello Kitty craze, in the mid-1970s, revolved around toys and character goods for children. But after Shimizu left the company, the designer who followed in her footsteps expanded Hello Kitty's sphere of activity. In the next Hello Kitty craze, which erupted in the 1990s, the character's fan base expanded from kids to high school girls and even to adults, especially female office workers. This craze was fueled by the use of celebrity spokespeople and by product placements on popular TV dramas. Some of her most devoted fans would surround themselves with every kind of Hello Kitty product imaginable, becoming known popularly as Kitira, or "Kitty freaks."

This phenomenon did not stop at Japan's borders. Mariah Carey, the Hilton sisters, and other celebrities began to pop up in the pages of magazines with their Hello Kitty clothing and bags. Four years ago, Sanrio opened a store in New York City. In April 2003, under a contract with the designer of a new US brand, Heatherette, models appeared in Hello Kitty print dresses for the second time at a fashion show in Los Angeles. And at the end of last year, two American business journalists living in Tokyo published a book on the history of Hello Kitty. All this has left many people stunned by the extent of this cat's success.

Characters: A Growth Industry
About 50,000 different Hello Kitty products are produced each year worldwide. There are even regional Hello Kitty products developed as local souvenirs; examples include Hello Kitty gyoza (minced pork dumplings) from the city of Utsunomiya and Hello Kitty natto (fermented soybeans) from Mito. Hello Kitty has certainly come a long way from her humble origins as a little white cat on a purse.

Hello Kitty goods now account for about half of Sanrio's total sales. Sanrio's character business has transcended the arena of children's goods to tap into a market that spans two generations, and the company has plans for further expansion. But this growth will be disciplined: Hello Kitty is a character from dreamland, and the company will not sully her image by lending it to products like knives, which are associated with danger, or cigarettes and ashtrays, which are associated with bad health.

To control its character business, Sanrio invests about ¥1.5 billion yen ($10 million at ¥105 to the dollar) a year on measures against unauthorized copying. Hello Kitty has become a treasure, not only for the company but for the entire Japanese character world, and it seems that guarding this treasure is the corporate equivalent of guarding the virtue of a sheltered daughter. Which is to say it is quite a job!

FRIENDS VISIT:-)

2007-09-18T18:32:00.000-07:00

.."Applauding crowd", familiar songs and faces, great staff,"pipol" andCOLLEGE FRIENDS!!!
Had a wonderful time singing last night! Some of my "prenships" paid me a visit and had fun singing their requests with "chika talk" on the side,lol:-) CHIE, SHEILS, HUBBY ENGEL with a friend named "totoi" surprised me when i saw them
seated near the front of the stage and chie was like telling me, "tagal mo naman!"... ahahay.. They arrived just before i started my 1st set! whaada?, They came so early huh!:-) It was sheils who mailed me thru multiply, that they're gonna watch on sept.17, which was last night. And glad, really glad to see both sheils and hubby watching me singing, for the first time after college, In a hotel doing a "solo stint"!. Well, Chie has always been there since day 1 of my so-called"career", "suportahan taka days" with Icar (didn't make it last night), and "common-friends" :-), my "mentor-friends", in my own terminology.lol:-)
We all had fun reminiscin', "hahahaha..katawa si engel," quoted him saying,"di ko makakalimutan sa'yo yung lagi ka nagmamadali!"..
bwahahaha,lols!:-) "speedy gonzalez" days, engel? Well, that's what you do when you're studying in the morning, working @ night and having "gimik" with the BARKADA, afterwards,whew! No worries, We all had clean-fun, right chie? hehe..I was really happy to have been able to sing most of my friends' requests, except "through the rain" from chie!
"retired na mariah moments, tsong"bwahaha:-p .. ( sigh, We weren't able to take some pix @the top of the century).

Looking forward for another "surprising" visit of my "PRENSHIPs", this time with the whole KADA... HOPEFULLY:-)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LAWRENCE QUINSAAT RAMOS!...(sept.15,1934 - dec.14,1975)

2007-09-15T04:00:00.000-07:00

Honestly, I couldn't think of my fondest childhood memories involving family birthday parties, with my Dad. ..

Well, I don’t want to sound like I pity myself, or whatever negative thoughts you might think I’m thinking of. It’s just that, My father left us(oooppss..’not the other way around huh!) sooo early. He passed away when I was, as young as two years old! Oh yeah, can’t remember a bit of my childhood moments with him. An old lady neighbor of ours once told me that he’s one hell of a great policeman. well-respected, as everybody would describe him. And yes, I’m proud of what reputation he has left, both being a member of the police force and a former bodyguard of the old mayor GORDON!. He was actually on his third year as a law student when he departed, and would definitely be a criminal lawyer or whatever kind of lawyer you may call it, if he didn’t die that soon. He died of cancer at the age of 41, and there’s a story behind that dreadful disease!...

My mom told me that he was shot during an "encounter" he had while trying to protect the old Mayor Gordon. He was rushed to the hospital and was able to recover miraculously! His colleagues told my mom that the mayor’s wife, Amelia Gordon(mother of the former senator, Dick Gordon) and her family has helped a lot for my dad to recover from the shooting incident. And thank GOD, time has passed, he was given his “second life”!

But unfortunately, 5 years after the “fu$%*ng” incident, my dad was diagnosed with cancer, known as, “Cirrhosis of the liver”. My mom said that he was a “heavy drinker” for more than a decade and that, triggered his liver even more, since he was shot, both in the stomach and near the heart. He was given a short-term by his doctors and “devastated” my mom, leaving her with 3 kids to raise, all by herself.

Modesty aside, My dad left us with a few investments. Few portions of land and 1 of them was near subic area which my mom had to sell. Wish I was old enough that time, I wouldn't let her! “sayang noh!”. My elder bro experienced good and “wealthy” days with daddy, not that rich ‘though, just “can afford” way of life! We had 2 cars back then, and we were about to migrate in the US of A, If it had not happened!

I couldn't’t explain it, but sometimes I try to recall some good memories with him as I look and stare at my old pix with my dad. Oh and I do cry myself at times when I see some of my friends with their fathers especially during father’s day and just can’t help but long for one. I am a strong-charactered kind of person, a fighter, I believe, but I also consider myself weak and sensitive when it comes to those “pipol” whom I loved the most. I get hurt easily when something bad happens in between.

Oh I’m getting “senti” now, but this comes once in a while, in times when I want to look back, “meditate”, and appreciate GOD’s blessings much more! Times of reminiscing’ helps me in a way to “regain” myself back to where it should be! We've been through the "worst" trials of life and still coping up till now, I'm just grateful, GOD always provides :-)

My dad has a lot of great plans for us and If it weren’t for that cancer he would’ve lived longer and I wouldn't have my half-siblings too!:-p …

That’s his fate, I guess, and I do believe, It made me strong and hold on to my dreams.

ILOVEYOU DAD!...GOD BLESS YOUR SOUL...

MY OLD JOURNAL(NOV.'06)

2007-09-11T20:07:00.000-07:00

I wasn't that interested at first, and then BAM-- I'm hooked!lol:-)
For quite some time, I was “unwilling” to sites like Friendster, MySpace, Multiply and all, eventhough I get invitations from some of my friends. I thought they’re just a waste of time. However, I joined MySpace last july'06?, out of boredom in my room here in shang and found it relatively fun @ first. Well, one thing that kinda “inspired” me was the “about me”and profile area, but later on I just realized I’m getting hooked without finding any old friends, but strange individuals who keep on sending me messages like, “HEY SEXY,WANT TO BE MY FRIEND?” until now.. oh my, wish I am!lol!. Just the same week, after prompts from my friends, I made the leap to Friendster and then multiply after meeting phoebe’s bff, Joan:-) ..'though i can't update it all the time since we're only given free dial-up internet access. I still need to go to the hotel's wireless area just to "Multiply".

And now I'm addicted?. Much more here in manila! ‘ Thought it’ll only be in shanghai, but nah-nah!, I got DSL here, much faster ‘though not free,lol:-)

It's just so cool to add friends and see what they're up to on a daily basis, and to share photos and comment back and forth with people. I've tracked down and been tracked down by people whom I haven't seen or talked to in 48 YEARS!LOL! Some people have the tendency to neglect their "actual" lives, but I think most of us, use it to stay and keep in better touch with those people whom we care about but don't get to see nearly enough. (& i'm lovin' it!) Some use it to network for both personal and professional purposes.I also think that some employers check sites like Multiply for some potential employees. For those of us who keep it clean and fun, I would like to think and look at the fact that having an online profile is a GOOD thing.
Now a days, it is important to keep up and know more about technology and the people around you, and also to build-up presence, both online and in real life.
Any Thoughts? If you're "surfing" now, pls. come & visit my site! If you're not on Friendster or Multiply, Why not give it a try and consider the fun out of it! :-)

FIRST NIGHT...STAGE FRIGHT!

2007-09-11T04:27:00.000-07:00

After almost a year and a half of singing as a trio in china, @ the same venue, with 4 sets a night singing mostly the same requested songs 6 times a week, ..over & over again!, here i am, back to my first night of "solo singing" and trying to recall those "old, all-time favorite" standard songs! Good thing i am with Mr.Ben Uy, one of the "coolest" pianist there is. He helped me recall some of the songs i don't usually sing with SILHOUETTE TRIO and overcame my usual "stage fright"..ooh yeah!it did strike back and thank GOD for the wonderful management & staff of TOC, i had a blast! ;-) They're still so supportive, even called up some of my regular guests @harry's bar and "unbelieveble", they all came! well, not too many but just a few of my "mentor-guests", if i may call it that way. They've been there since day 1 of my "solo career" and yes, @TOC! I had my very first audition @the top of the century way back in 2000 and bacame my favorite venue since then. not to mention the free room i use during my slot and some "freebies & TAKE-OUTS" i usually get from "the kitchen!.."rapsa";-) lol!
..oh and by the way, they now let, us, musicians and singers, EAT @ THE COFFEE SHOP!..(the way it's supposed to be!) ... WITH MY MOM!!!.. (slurp);-)

..with her ever "famous smile"hehe:-)

Mondays nights @TOC

2007-09-09T07:48:00.000-07:00

..GOD is good!..have to work during my 2month vacation here in PI..Can't say no to my wonderful "agent-friend" Tita lilian juatan..:=)
I'll be featured @The Harry's bar of The Century Park Hotel, all mondays of september till the night before my departure for shangri-la,india this november. Ciao;=)

IN2IT;( ..&MISSING"BENCH"

2007-09-08T01:46:00.000-07:00

"not the make-up!"lol! ..I'm really getting into this! I mean, my laptop, the internet and all. been here in PI for 2 weeks? and so far i haven't gone out yet, oh yah, bench & I of course went out already, "dated" for like, few times,only!ahuhu.. yet "very memorable" naman:) My brothers are kinda missing him too and planning to watch one of his "session gigs".. oh yah they really like "BENCH" ;-) ..'hope my mom will.. too;=P

"PINK LEMONADES?"

2007-09-07T05:16:00.000-07:00

I was kinda stuck here the whole time, "multiplying", while cleaning up some "clutter" and now, it's almost 5 in the morning? oh my mama! ahahayyy!!ano ba itoh?"adiktus"!!!
as i do my last minute of "browsing", I saw phoebe's post and so i dropped by her site and read her blog. I was kinda sleepy now but can't help not to leave her a reply... We may not be the "closest of friends" but i sincerely want to cheer her up and i do hope she would be heartened by these words of encouragement.

There may be days when you get up in the morning and things aren't the way you had hoped they would be,
....that's when you have to tell yourself that things will get better.
There are times when people disappoint you and let you down,but those are the times when you must remind yourself to trust your own judgments and opinions, to keep your life focused on believing in yourself and all that you are capable of.
There will be challenges to face and changes to make in your life,and it is up to you to accept them.
Constantly keep yourself headed in the right direction for you.
It may not be easy at times, but in those times of struggle you will find a stronger sense of who you are, So when the days come that are filled with frustration
and unexpected responsibilities, remember to believe in yourself and all you want your life to be, because the challenges and changes will only help you to find the goals that you know are meant to come true for you.

"If life gives you a lemon...know then how to make a LEMONADE" ..goes a wise old adage *RECOGNIZE THE LEMON BY IT'S JUICE *FOCUS ON THE JUICE NOT ON THE SKIN *APPLY TWIST OF CREATIVITY AND IMAGINATION TO SQUEEZE THE JUICE :=)

..I do hope you will heartily welcome a lemon in your life as well as you welcome life's mangoes or strawberries (or whatever happens to be your favorite fruit).

..take care phoeebs. and don't ever stop believing in yourself.

"lazy apes"

2007-09-01T16:53:00.000-07:00

Ooopppss.. wait! To be continued na lang! I’m kinda sleepy right now, it’s 3:30 in the freaking sunny hot afternoon and missing my room in shang! Oh well.. honestly? Don’t know when will I finish this “bloggy-BLOG”..:=( I have to say I never finished some of my journal or blogs. I have it here right next to me, some scratch paper, old “hello kitty” notebook since FBC SHOWBAND days, and some, here on my computer. I don't know how far I am into the “web-blog now blog” thing but I'm on the verge of it and would just jumped into the trash thing! Ahahaayyy..lol!. I also never finished my plan of having a paid personal website other than my free one on freewebs.com. I only got it months ago and never had time to finish it. Some goes for Multiply alone. I guess I should finish or rather stop changing my theme every now and then on my friendster, here ,freewebs, picturetrail, and so on and so forth.. before I make my own personal “abrilata.com”naks! Watta name!he-he,,lols:=P. I'll probably leave it a year or two so I forget everything. lols & lols ever!:=). I got as far as ????duh?... and never finished it.

farewell party with the F&B director,hotel manager & general manager of SHANGRI-LA,SHANGHAI

2007-08-30T16:22:00.000-07:00

Mr.Richard Cooke(hotel manager), JEN,MOI,& KIM(silhouette trio),
MR. JOHN RICE(General Manager), Mr.Philippe(1 of the chefs), Mr.Thomas Schmitt(F&B DIRECTOR,not in the pic.:=p)

THE SILHOUETTE TRIO was offered to come back again after almost a year and a half of performance and great stay @THE PUDONG,SHANGRI-LA HOTEL.

They want it right after our next booking in SHANGRI-LA,INDIA this november,'07 till march,'08. The next proposed contract will be for a year initially, and who knows what will happen next?!? One thing's for sure, they're very consistent in convincing us, not to stay longer in india! hmmm ;p

The management invited us over for a drink @ the JAZZ BAR a day before our departure last august 21,'07 and we absolutely had a blast!...It was around 7pm, but we were informed like 21/2 hours earlier. Jenny’s quite sleepy that time after having our brunch @ the YI CAFE, and so she decided to take a nap, while I, invaded her room just to borrow her IRON. I already packed my things, so i thought of just using her stuff! He-he.. well anyway, Jen's a last minute "packer"(sounds like.....lol!).. After ironing,(my hair),i went straight to my room and planned of having a foot spa but unfortunately ended up weighing my luggage, one by one! all over again!:=(..and again! lol!.. Little did i know that it was almost 6:30 in the evening, I hurried up and decided to wear one of our costume's top, a black haltered loose silky blouse, enough to cover my belly "bil bil's" he-he.. got a call from Jen asking me if was watching HBO? an Alicia Silverstone movie, I forgot the title but it's all about a dying mom spending her last few moments with her friends, loved ones most especially with her son. ayun! emote ang lola Jen nyo!:(.."cry -yola" ever !lols!)... well, me too, but at the same time busy "re-packing" my things after " the halukays" and all, looking for a top that i'm gonna wear for the "party". A pair of shirt and my fave kamiseta jeans were the only outfits left inside my closet, since i'm almost packed and ready to go straight to Pudong Internatinal Airport! I just didn't expect for the management to organize such a "party" for us.

It's almost 6:45 man!. but what the heck we're freakin' exhausted packing up & weighing our things or am i the only one?lol!he-he..5 minutes before 7pm,I decided to just go straight to jenny's room so we won't spend extra time waiting for each other @the lobby. Jen's almost done & so as Kim but had to follow 'coz of a Filipino friend's visit in his room. So we went ahead and one of the managers there suddenly "popped-out" of nowhere, informing us that the F&B director& Hotel manager had been waiting for quite a while and like telling us "ey,'told yah,you have to be there around 7pm..blah-blah(black ship) lol!".. well anyways, we just hurried up walking towards the jazz bar and apologized to them & they were kind enough to tell us that, it's all okay since they know that we're just sooo busy packing .see? he-he.. ;p

The farewell party's just began (party?), oh yah ,i had a baileys, double! and was able to finish it just before the picture taking, that’s why I’m kinda RED on this pic! LOL. Not tipsy ‘though ( I hardly get drunk NOH!) but it’s always been like that every time I take any kind of alcohol even “rubbing” alcohol, may it be “ethyl or isopropyl” bwahahaha.. LOL:=P. Jen preferred champagne, (unfortunately just had 3 or 4 sips the whole damn drinking farewell party, as usual!) lol! Our conversation with the bosses turned out great ‘though the GM arrived quite late. He’s such a nice person, and I believed, it’s inside and out! Well, the fact that he's the one responsible for our long-term extension and succeeding bookings in Shangri-la aside from Mr. Andrew Steele of Shang, India. :-)

It’s the first time we had this kind of talk with the F&B director, and I find him so funny! He cracked jokes spontaneously, and even jammed with Kim while singing his “remarkable” rendition of the song “what a wonderful world”. And “cracking” his voice too, take note! LOL: =P. We were just laughing and discussing some proposed future booking plans at the same time. I don’t wanna sound (nega!) negative, but all the while, it seemed that they’re very vocal talking about India, The other side of it! And I better not discuss it here, might offend some “pipol” in the neighborhood! He-he..:=). I am such an optimistic kind of person, so I would like to give it the benefit of the doubt, think positive and count my “countless” blessings! he-he..(gasgas na ata itoh?lol:=P).
Mr.Richard Cooke on the other hand, has always been "that friendly" to us, not to mention his being a disarmingly attractive person! oh yes, he is a "charmer" man! (elow bebeko;p)lols:=).. He requested us to render a few songs and so we did his all-time fave-- I left my heart in san francisco. Unknowingly, the song Power of Two was another favorite of him which he requested right away and sang it meaningfully since the lyrics fits what we're feeling that moment..especially moi! I couldn't forget what Mr.Rice said right after singing it-- "better than @the lobby"... modesty aside.
Mr.Thomas Schmitt handed us over 3 beautifully wrapped gifts in a small chinese elegant bag!.. a LIULUGONG FANG CRYSTAL signature brand from china! I got a necklace, jen got a pair of earrings and a chain for kim. WOW!:=)... They're generous indeed!.. and lucky us;=p hehe;=)
Ever since i was a kid, if i receive something that surprises me, such as an unexpected gift, makes me feel like, embellished, can't help to respond "exaggeratedly". "OA", as others would describe me!lol;P

The get-together farewell party seemed to be endless. The conversation's just kept on going and going, fascinating and interesting as it moved along. We even talked about personal matters like, me getting married sooner hope not later,lol!, marriage, husbands and wives, and some family problems like my siblings who got hooked on drugs! but without sounding too "pitiful". Oh yah we're getting personal that time and it looked like, they wanted to.

inspire your soul

2007-08-28T00:57:00.000-07:00

INSPIRATION FOR THE SOUL
"You Are Worthy"
Do not undermine your worth by comparing yourself with others.
It is because we are different that each of us is special.
Do not set your goals by what other people deem important.
Only you know what is best for you.
Do not take for granted the things closest to your heart.
Cling to them as you would your life. For without them,
life is meaningless.
Do not let your life slip through your fingers by living in the past
nor for the future.
By living your life one day at a time, You live all the days of your life.
Do not give up when you still have something to give.
Nothing is really over until the moment you stop trying.
It is a fragile thread that binds us to each other.
Do not be afraid to encounter risks. It is by taking chances
That we learn to be brave.
Do not shut love out of your life by saying it is impossible to find.
The quickest way to receive love is to give love;
The fastest way to lose love is to hold it too tightly.
In addition, The best way to keep love is to give it wings.
Do not dismiss your dreams.
To be without dreams is to be without hope,
To be without hope is to be without purpose.
Do not run through life so fast that you forget
Not only where you have been but also where you are going.
Life is not a race but a journey to be savored each step of the way.
So smile and let the sun shine through. For there's someone,
somewhere, watching over you.

"...REFLECTIONS"

2007-07-09T00:01:00.000-07:00

When I was younger, I used to wonder if I would ever get to graduate and finish college?, if I would be able to help my family especially 3 of my brothers who’d been through “extreme vices”?,or if I’ll be able to provide and give each of them a small place of their own?,so that there’ll bo no worries on how and where to get money for the rent!...seemed like a very advanced age not so many years ago. Now that I have passed that "milestone" (yes,it is!,for me), I find myself reflecting more frequently and more seriously upon things that I need to do with the time that is left?, not that I’m dying sooner! (not @this time LORD:=)), the mere fact that i am not getting any younger! i'm talking about improvements that need to be made, weaknesses that need to be overcome. When or if I’ll ever get married earlier than 40?!, much more on wondering if I would ever get “preggy” and be able to experience the essence of being a woman!(LOL:=P). Earlier it always seemed that there would be enough time for dealing with these things. Now I am not so sure. The imperfections I have always been aware of are, in too many instances, still there. I think some "progress" has occurred as time has passed. But has it really kept pace with the opportunities that have come and the expectations that others have held out for me? How well have I been "qualifying" myself in the Lord's eyes? I wonder about this @ times. Is there a possibility that I can measure up to his "expectations" in the time that is left? These are "sobering" reflections. When I am conscious of the "imperfections" in my own life and am aware of the "frailties" that exist in the lives of others, even men and women for whom I have the greatest love, and respect. I have learned that my own progress cannot always be represented by a sustained, constant "upward curve". There are ups and downs. I observe this same reality in the lives of those with whom I am well acquainted. It is particularly difficult when we are inclined to measure our own weaknesses against the strengths of others. One lesson life has taught me is that there is absolutely no value or benefit in being critical and judgmental of failings we observe in someone else's life. A sensitivity to our own weakness sometimes seems to create the temptation to note and emphasize the imperfections we see in others. Through this "action" we sometimes try to justify and overlook our own failings. It is a deceitful thing to do. It not only hinders our own progress, but it can be hurtful to those whom we judge and often criticize before others. It causes us to say to ourselves constantly: "I will not give in to my failings. Regardless of how often I lose my "footing" and slip backward on the path of progress, I will get up and I will move on. I will not quit. I will endure to the end.” Perhaps the most significant lesson of all that I have learned is that I cannot succeed in this struggle alone. I must have the love, compassion, support, and confidence of those who know me best. But most important, I must have the strength, the light, and the spirit. I must have the help from GOD to rise above the human "flaws" that I possess. Man cannot, by his own resources, even with the love and support of his fellow beings, rise above the limitations of human weakness and imperfection. We are lost if we try to stand alone.

AND SO TODAY, I REFLECT.

"...FROM WEB LOG TO BLOG" ..the 1st encounter:=P

2007-06-28T00:54:00.001-07:00

Wow! My first BLOG ever.. At long last?lol...
Been wanting to make one since day 1 of having my new XPS M1210 laptop.

Just to share with you, Before I had the brand new one, I got a FUJITSU laptop.
It looks so used and old, You wanna throw it away,lol.
I got it as a present from a guest in Japan, during our last night of performance back in 2005... An old laptop from a "weird" Japanese guy, haha... But whatever, honestly, It was so helpful that I was able to bring "back-to-life" my old email address. I'm really not into internet before, not until I had it. I remember that time, I don't even know how to use a computer, The basics and all. I just happen to have an email add because a friend back in japan signed-up for me, just for the heck of it..hehe
The old Fujitsu laptop made me once in a while kinda excited since it's my first and I finally got one!haha.. I just realized the fact that it's useful no matter how it looked like and how old it is. I guess when it's your first, you don't compare, you just settle with what you have..(right?) ;-p

All along that time, around March of 2006. I was getting bored already after 7 months of "solo' singing in manila. Not to mention the competition going on in getting local bookings. Being a "Breadwinner" in the family, I couldn't refuse to compare my "earnings" when I sing locally and abroad.
I've been praying for an overseas gig that time and I'm confident enough that GOD will answer the desires of my heart right that moment.
I always believe in GOD's will. The way things I want to be should fall under His will--"Thy will be done"!
I've been complaining all the while but GOD is just so good he keeps on answering my prayers especially when it comes to my work.
I thank him wholeheartedly for all the wonderful things he has done for me.
He quickly answered my prayer that time, I got an offer from one of my trusted agents, which was a Solo stint booking for Shangri-la, Oman. Another one was from my a former agent who has booked my former band in nagoya, way back in 1998. She has offered me for a solo stint in one of the hotels near nagoya. I declined after offering me a lower budget that I wanna consider an "unfair" amount of talent fee. Not that I'm very particular with it, It's just not "fair" enough. I also heard some negative feedbacks from colleagues and so It didn't push through.
I then settled and hoped for Shangri-la, Oman to materialize. Having my old yet useful laptop, I searched and took a glance at the place through a very low dial-up internet connection..haha.. Whoa, suddenly I got teary eyed! Probably because It's gonna be the first time for me to travel and sing on my own, my first "solo" stint ever, abroad. And looking at the ambience of the hotel itself, It seemed kinda boring to me. Knowing It's quite far and located in the middle east?.
But all these are just my inner-sights. I would still accept the offer if it did push through and if not given any option at all.
Moving on, God must've known what my heart truly feels, I got an offer for Shangri-la, Shanghai. Believe me, In everything I've accomplished, He guided me all throughout my way. I remember it was before my birthday in 2006 when I got a call from an agent scouting for "auditioners" for a gig in the said hotel. I was still sleeping that time when he called up, asking me to audition the next day. I have this "Insomnia" and feeling drowsy that day and so my answer to him was like, "Oh I'm so sorry, I have no pianist for the audition"..haha.. Well, It's really true, The pianist I wanted for that particular booking, opened up his own jazz bar in manila and wouldn't want to work abroad at the moment. And undeniably, I was too lazy though the audition was not set on that day (what an attitude!).
Too persistent(Thank GOD), He called up again asking if I'm interested to sing with my group. He knows that I travel and sing overseas with my partner, Jenny. Well, We don't actually have our "own" pianist when we sing abroad or even locally. It's like we're a "Duo-sessionist" if I may call it that way. We kind of used to jamming, since we perform in manila as a soloist. I guess everybody knows that when you're a solo singer, You don't usually rehearse with a pianist or a certain group of back-ups. It's how do I call, "Jive and vibe".. One thing I enjoyed most of being a Soloista. It is so rewarding to sing with, if not the best, a good pianist with no attitude at all and vice-versa.
Going back, I just don't know what's with me that time, I was too lazy and that my answer was always negative. I called up Jen and asked if she's interested for that particular offer in shanghai and she answered, YES. We've talked about lots of things to consider including the talent fee and mainly, who's gonna be our pianist?. We came to a point of excitement and fear that if ever, It's gonna be our first time in China!
Our last trip abroad was last August,2005 in Narita, Japan and being a so-called "Workaholic" kinda girl who got used to earning foreign currency(haha..Not that desperate though), I really wanted to travel and sing out of the country again, after 7 months of singing in manila. It was getting tougher for local bookings that time, not to mention some "Ego tripper" F&B bosses.
To continue, The agent called back again hoping for a possible positive answer. I had to be honest and told him that finding a pianist for the said audtition, would be a problem. We had some discussions, exchanged ideas and talked about some pianists we know, who can join the group as a trio.
One pianist we considered, whom we thought could be with us in the trip had an urgent booking that time in Hongkong. He knew about this offer beforehand and very much eager to go back to Shanghai, since he played there years ago. We're kinda losing our hope already and I thought anyway, modesty aside, I still got a fall back which is that offer in Oman.
I got another call from the agent and suggested to ask one of my booking agent's hubby pianist to accompany us for the audition or If possible, for the booking itself. Knowing him as a kind pianist, It's alright for us to work with him. We continued with the plan and went on with the audition. We're the first group who performed and got so lucky to have passed the audition among many aspiring candidates..haha.. It wasn't announced right away actually, We waited for like a week or so?.. It was only now that our agent revealed to me the reason why the hotel manager asked us for a pictorial right away, right after our performance. Little did we know, we already passed the audition.
Problems..problems..problems.. We're still in need of a "Singing Pianist". The one who accompanied us during the audition knew about the requirement from the very start and so, It's okay for him not to join the group. He just willingly accepted our favor to help us out for the said audition. And to that, we are so grateful indeed.
Still thinking who's gonna be our pianist, Jen called me up with an idea to get Kim, one of our pianists back in Japan. Kim can sing, rap, and do sequencing stuff really good. What a genius Jenny could be!lol..
And so, We finally get to negotiate with the budget and all through the phone. I was the one talking with the first agent who's by the way in Macau, A portuguese/singaporean married to a Filipina. I just relay our conversation to Jen and Kim which was kinda exhausting, since I had to ask their opinion first before I confirm anything with the agent. However, It's what you gotta do and You gotta do what's right before anything "regretful" happens.
It was all indeed an "Answered prayer". Another blessing for us to count, for us to always think positive and appreciate even more the blessings that comes our way... ;-)
Time flies fast, It's our longest trip ever! We had our first year last May 20, 2007 here in Pudong, Shangri-la, Shanghai. Grateful, Thankful and proud! GOD is just so good..

But I believe that challenges comes once in a while, It isn't all pure milk and honey. We also had some stressful moments here and are still on going.. Mainly on the sound system itself. Oh yes, We surely enjoy our stay in our own rooms, We can invite friends, our families and loved ones to stay with us for a period of time and enjoy the perks of Shangri-la Hotel ooh lala.. ..haha! But as I've mentioned It ain't just that, all the stress comes from the stage, When we are on stage! We've been patient enough for a year already and I sometimes, try to think differerently. I believe It's one way to keep myself calm, not to frown or make face on stage, which sadly happens frequently, now a days. I just thought of an advantage we could get, out of singing with a bad sound, that wherever we go, wherever we sing, may it be with an excellent or the ever worst one, We're ready to deal with whatever is on the field. right? Well, We do get appreciation from the crowd, not knowing the difficulties we encounter while we sing on stage. Though there are some arrogant, egoistic people we kinda despise. One good thing is that, We deal with the "Masters" and jive with the staffs, though not all of 'em but mostly, the good ones. It is a reality that you can't please everybody and would, from time to time, encounter envious people. Inspite of these negative and stressful momentums, lol.. The Silhouette Trio is indeed grateful, enjoying this wonderful journey a singing group could ever have. At The Shangri-la Hotel, with consecutive contract extensions and an increase to be thankful for--haha...weeeee... Come to think of it, Not everyone, singing group or band can be given this rare chance to continuously work and perform in one of the finest Hotels in China, given great accomodation, privileges, "freebies" and some granted requests... We had the chance to have a vacation, The first one was for a week, second was for a month and surely cherished our moments with our loved ones.
Special thanks to mareng Jenny who had been so persistent in insisting to get back home just to see his growing-up kiddo, not to mention her "sweety" everrr ;-p

"All is well, that ends well"... :-)

To GOD be the glory! :-)

A great note for all:)

2007-05-18T00:59:00.000-07:00

...It will take just 37 seconds to read this
and change your thinking...:)
Two men, both seriously ill, occupied the same hospital room. One man was allowed to sit up in his bed for an hour each afternoon to help drain the fluid from his lungs. His bed was next to the room's only window. The other man had to spend all his time flat on his back. The men talked for hours on end. They spoke of their wives and families, their homes, their jobs,their involvement in the military service, where they had been on vacation. Every afternoon when the man in the bed by the window could sit up, he would pass the time by describing to his roommate all the things
he could see outside the window. The man in the other bed began to live for those one hour periods where his world would be broadened and enlivened by all the activity and color of the world outside. The window overlooked a park with a lovely lake. Ducks and swans played on the water while children sailed their model boats. Young lovers walked arm in arm amidst flowers of every color and a fin e view of the city skyline could be seen in the distance.As the man by the window described all this in exquisite detail, the man on the other side of the room would close his eyes and imagine the picturesque scene. One warm afternoon the man by the window described a parade passing by. Although the other man couldn't hear the band - he could see it. In his mind's eye as the gentleman by the window portrayed it with descriptive words.Days and weeks passed.
One morning, the day nurse arrived to bring water for their baths only to find the lifeless body of the man by the window, who had died peacefully in his sleep. She was saddened and called the hospital attendants to take the body away.As soon as it seemed appropriate, the other man asked if he could be moved next to the window. The nurse was happy to make the switch, and after making sure he was comfortable, she left him alone. Slowly, painfully, he propped himself up on one elbow to take his first look at the real world outside. He strained to slowly turn to look out the window beside the bed. It faced a blank wall. The man asked the nurse what could have compelled his deceased roommate who had described such wonderful things outside this window.
The nurse responded that THE MAN WAS BLIND and could not even see the wall.
She said, "PERHAPS HE JUST WANTED TO ENCOURAGE YOU.."
Epilogue:
There is tremendous happiness in making others happy, despite our own situations.
Shared grief is half the sorrow, but happiness when shared, is doubled.
IF YOU WANT TO FEEL RICH, JUST COUNT ALL THE THINGS YOU HAVE THAT MONEY CAN'T BUY. "TODAY IS A GIFT, THAT'S WHY IT IS CALLED THE PRESENT."
The origin of this letter is unknown, but it brings good luck to everyone who passes it on..
Just FORWARD IT TO YOUR F-R-I-E-N-D-S TO WHOM YOU WISH BLESSINGS:)