The Beach House

Yipee! I've just been given a really exciting task- my Mom and brother have decided to buy a beach (or a parcel of land close to the beach ; ) in Guiuan. Where is Guiuan, you ask? This quiant fishing town is located on the eastern tip of Samar.

Guiuan has the BEST beaches. (I've been to the ones in Mindoro, Batangas, Cebu, Boracay, and I swear they don't compare!) As a matter of fact, there are presently a number of international resorts in Guiuan- the most popular of which is Surf Camp. (Click on the link to see photos) The waters surrounding Guiuan are crystal clear, so clear it makes the waters in Boracay seem like sewage in comparison. Bora has a great party scene (which you won't find in Guiuan), but as far as the nature trips are concerned- it seems overused. I think it was only in Station 2 where the waters were a bit ok (not much seaweeds floating about). The reason why that part of Samar remains unspoiled is the lack of accessibility (think Palawan), and of course the political killings in other parts of Samar may have given the island a bad rap.

I'm not even sure on how to go about it. Do I go to the town hall and inquire where land purchases are made? There are no subdivisions in Guiuan (where buying residential property would be easy) so I really have to start from scratch. And according to my lawyer friend BC, there are a number of things that need to be done as far as the sale is concerned. Whew!

Anyway, I've already started to make sketches of the beach house that I want. It was ultimately much cheaper (and practical) to design a studio type (no partitions) place instead of say, a two bedroom house. 1. My Mom and brother vacation once a year only and, 2. I am based here in Tacloban which is 3-4 hours away. No one will be living there for most of the year (hence my over-enthusiasm with iron grills on the windows and doors). Security is of paramount importance. Comfort is next, and so aside from making a terrace, I want a bathroom with a huge tub ; ) Haha! I also want the structure on stilts (concrete) so that it is protected from flood (if ever that happens) and the place will have better air circulation.

The pic of me below was taken at Crystal Beach. Check out the water!

Fitness Tips That Work

It has been a month since I started getting serious about my fitness routine again at the gym. Week after week, I find that the tape measure (who never lies!) confirms that my midsection is going back to its original girth and my chest and arms are getting bigger (yahoo!). After some research and putting into practice what I learned, I’m going to share some tips that actually worked for me. Again, as always I’m going to emphasize the importance of seeing your physician before you try anything. Baby steps, guys!

Tip 1: Try to have a shorter workout time. A lot of people spend half a day at the gym (mostly sitting around and chatting), yet accomplish little. Make sure to have your routine down pat; alternate which muscle groups you will be working on. For example, you do the chest, abs and legs today, then do shoulders and triceps the next visit. Doing everything all at once will just strain your muscles, I doubt if you’ll be able to walk around the next day.

Tip 2: Use sustained, fluid movements. I used to use the momentum (think swinging pendulum) to help lift the dumbbell. Sustained movements will allow you to work that muscle properly, the right movement (direction and fluidity) will prevent injury.

Tip 3: Having shorter rest periods will allow you to have a more intense workout.

Tip 4: Don’t overdo it. No need to visit the gym everyday. Twice or thrice a week is ok. It’s the manner you work out that makes the difference, not so much the frequency. Your muscles need to repair themselves.

Tip 5: This might get a bit expensive but I always recommend having a trainer with you. They know what they are doing, and can assist you (I have been doing this thing called “Pyramid” where one increases the weight on the barbell three times, decreasing the repetitions as the weights increase).

Tip 6: Remember what I said about fitness being a lifestyle? Complement your workout with the right diet. Just because you work out doesn’t mean you can eat pork 24/7! You won’t see results right away after a month (depends on the person), so try not to expect too much or you will get discouraged. Try not to think about it too much and just sustain this new, healthier lifestyle. One day you will just be pleasantly surprised that your clothes fit better and you’ll appreciate your new form.

City Girl Gets Trapped in the Boondocks with Unattractive Men

I’ve always fancied myself as a nature person. Practically every month, I make it a point to travel- from Sagada to Bontoc to Baguio to Mindoro to Panay (back when I was still working), and nowadays Marabut, and Guiuan, Eastern Samar. For most of those trips I usually stay in a comfortable hotel or hostel, and admittedly my friends and I were there because of the nightlife more than the sights. To become truly one with nature, I told myself, I need to know how to camp.

And so I applied for a membership at a local Mountaineering club in Tacloban. We went through a couple of lectures before the first event- a team building at Victor’s Peak- the highest elevation in Tacloban City.

I started off at the wrong foot. I arrived, meticulously packed (first aid kit, check! change of clothes, check! food and water, check! kikay kit, check!) and an hour late. The assembly place was empty because everyone had left. Determined not to put my efforts to waste, I persuaded one of the senior members at the club to hitch me a ride. I gracelessly rode the back of his motorcycle (with my 10 ton backpack swaying from side to side and bringing my body with it), praying I won’t fall and get run over by the ten wheeler trying to overtake us.

We finally arrived at the base of the mountain, met with glares from my fellow trainees. I thought to myself, oh dear, there were only two females (one made a pass at me during one of the lectures before), and both looked like tarzans! I had a feeling of dread slowly creeping up from my stomach. This was not going to be a good day for me.

The incline was comfortable enough for the first half hour hike. We even took pictures as we climbed up. The trouble first came when the slope suddenly became steep (maybe 60 degrees or higher) , and with my heavy pack I was having difficulty breathing. We had to stop twice so I could catch my breath and drink water. During the second stop I seriously thought I was having a heart attack- my chest pounded and I couldn’t breathe properly. One of the girls (who barely broke a sweat) suggested I drink my water slowly- one gulp, let it stay a bit in the mouth, and slowly slide it down to my throat (I know, I was totally thinking she was giving me pointers for doing the other type of mouth exercise!). After 15 minutes, we resumed our never-ending trek.

It was late afternoon when we finally arrived at the summit. And the view? Nothing spectacular.. I silently cursed myself. “I went all the way up for this?!” I decided to give it a chance and stay overnight- hoping something interesting might happen. Wrong again! The food was bad (noodles, canned goods, and all light stuff they could carry), the accommodations worse. Note: you had to pee and do number two (if you need to) in the woods.

I had to share the tent (that had the capacity for two people) with three other guys. And honey, none of them were good-looking. The guys proceeded to smoke pot, which I refused, and so I just sat there looking like a petulant princess. I decided to stop being a snob and just drown my sorrows in the liquor that the guys brought.

At promptly 11pm, torrential rain started to pour. We went inside the flimsy tent and tried to sleep. Just my luck, my corner had a drip, and my lower body was soaked in rain water. Drunk and wet (not in a good way) I swear I was going crazy!

The next day, I persuaded the guys that we go home early because I remembered had an “appointment”. Of course the rain made going down so much easier- literally. I had to hug trees and grab on to thorny branches lest I plummet to my death. When we reached the highway, I was covered in mud from head to toe. I swore never again to do anything of the sort. Memo to Thad: throw away the mountaineering gear, keep your kikay kit and stay indoors.

Take me to Bed..

I just love Mabuhay Miles. My mom earned enough points from her roundtrip MNL-LAX and domestic flights at PAL for a free roundtrip ticket! There was actually no waiting; as soon as the accrued points were posted, I went to PAL to get a ticket (I only had to pay the tax).

I’ve already informed my twinsis-slash-hag that I’d be visiting the last weekend of July. My friend who works in Japan is also coming home the same month so its gonna be a very busy weekend.

Aside from seeing my old team, former colleagues and friends, me and the girls will be prowling the dance floors of Bed and Government. Gosh, I can remember the last time I went to bed (before the renovation, I think)- I was on the dance floor and these guys were handing out lollipops. I was of course quite tipsy from the drinks, and I’ve lost my friends somewhere in the crowd. The cute guy next to me remarked something about the lollipops (I couldn’t even remember!) and I thought it was hilarious! I love the drunk, uninhibited me, the next thing I know we were kissing in the middle of the dance floor! I didn’t even get his name..

The anticipation gets me weak in the knees hehe! Too bad I don’t have enough time to go to Galera. It would have been fun now that the gang is getting together.. On that note, I actually would love to have coffee with other bloggers here ; ) I’d be arriving Friday morning and be leaving Sunday afternoon.. I hope you guys will be free so I can put that in my itinerary. See ya!

6 Guys to Avoid

I've had my fair share of bad dates, and for some of our sisters who are only beginning to play the field, allow me to give some tips. Dating: it's about getting to know the person.. Don't get smitten because nothing is for certain here. A lot of unexpected things can still happen- like him suddenly disappearing into thin air (even after a spectacular first date or first you-know-what). Think boundaries, don't "put out" right away.

Watch out for these red flags though, let me tell you they are a complete waste of time.

I-think-I’m-Bi-Ty
He's had a girlfriend before and likes spending time with you. The problem is that he is still confused about his sexuality. Don't expect this relationship to go any further unless those issues are resolved. Honey, you got enough problems on your own.

I-Have-Kids-and-I’m-Married-Jared

Oh great, he's about to make a Galema out of you. Don't turn into a home wrecker! Even if he is the best looking guy you've seen, its not worth it being Number 2. I once had a married guy ask me out and I told him, "Go back to your wife." Odiba ang taray?! You know what they say.. "When you're in love with a married man, don't wear mascara." Iiyak ka lang ng iyak in the end.
The Straight Tripper
The macho guy who is game for anything. A few drinks with him and he wants to "see what its like". For some this is their dream scenario. I don't know, maybe its the fact that I'm already done with that phase.. But I just want something that will last more than a season of a bad TV sineserye.

I-Want-Your-Money-Honey
The saddest, most common guys that some older queens date. From food, to allowance, to rent, to tuition fees, you have to be the one to pay. You even beat the Phillipine National Bank for the most number of remittances! Etching! Superbrands ka na pala. Well, if you have the moolah, why not?

The Mama’s Boy
This is by far the most infuriating of the bunch. The rest I can handle with ease, and then comes an intelligent, cute charmer. You go on a nice date, hold hands under the stars, go to Rockwell for a second date. Until you find out later that he practically has to ask permission from his Momma if he can have sex with you. C'mon!

The “Katrina”

He has more sexual conquests than the maximum number of permutations of a ten digit electronic raffle. Ilan yon? Hmmm nPr= 3,628,800. Ibang level na ito. If you feel an itch somewhere have it checked pronto! Di 'yan sign ng paparating na pera gagah!

Gym Stories

Don't you just hate it when people don't follow gym etiquette? Here are some of the most annoying things that really pisses me off:

1. Women sitting around hogging the equipment. I would understand if you needed a rest between sets, but come on! 30 minutes sitting on a machine fiddling with your cell is not a workout. Move your ass, that ought to burn calories!

2. Men who try to impress by lifting 1 ton of weight, and all the while screaming like a little girl as they try to lift it. I usually see this coming when a bunch of "body builders" come in. Here goes! AAARRRRGGGHH.. EEEEEE!! Can you guys put yourselves on mute, please? Better yet, move a mile away. Sheesh!

3. Men who come on to you while working out. Once I was on a treadmill and this old queen used the one next to me.. I was quite polite at first, but as she pressed on asking for my lifestory I just had to cut my cardio time. Memo to all queers: cruising schedule is after the workouts, venue locker room.

4. Men who leave the equipments slathered in their sweat. Yuck! Even if the guy is the best looking in the gym, its just gross!! You are already slipping as it is, your grip isn't gonna get better with his Datu Puti slathered on the weights and benches.

5. Men make pa-contest with you to see who can lift heavier weights. Straight men do this because of the ego thing. I know I'm not tall and strong so forgive me for not using the Arnold Schwarzenegger-size weights.

But its not all bad stuff.. I'll also share some of the fun moments I've had:

1. I drank a cute guy’s water. (Accidentally daw, ching!) And, realizing my water was with my locker keys on another machine, I quickly returned his bottle, anticipating an ass-kicking. Instead, he went ahead and drank it. (If he was aware or unaware of what I did, I'll never know) Uyyy! hehe

2. At Fitness First RCBC, I was using a leg machine (the one where you spread your thigh) and looked at the guy in front of me provocatively (OK Guilty!) while I opened and closed hihihi It worked!

3. Stayed in the steam room for sooo long I almost suffocated, well it was worth the sights heheh

4. Someone stole my undies (all my money and phone intact) at the same gym. I had to go back home lest I go to my shift at work commando. I was pissed and flattered at the same time. Awww!
5. Stretching with a cute trainer—the best! Ahihi

What Some Guys Say Before They Take You to Bed

We all live parallel lives.. I’m sure you’ve heard them all before:

Guy: I’ll be gentle!
Thad: Yeah, right. Then I won’t be able to sit and walk properly for a week.

Guy: Anong gusto mong cariño?
Thad: What? Just pull your pants off and get on with it! I need to be at work in about 7 hours.

Guy: Let’s go to my place for a drink..
Thad: Before or after?..

Guy: Are you a bottom? asks a 6foot guy

Thad: Obvious ba?

Guy: (Brushes his hand on my arm)

Thad: Got it, let’s get back to my place.

My fatal line: Years ago, Ive been seeing this guy from the office for quite some time. One evening after a date, we sneaked into his place. After some heavy duty kissing, I couldn’t resist asking him about the relationship. “So, where is this going?”

Guy: (Looses his hard on.)
Oops, my bad!

What is Real Beauty?

Let’s face it, your breasts will sag, all your hair will eventually fall off, and your skin will wrinkle. What is lasting beauty? When we see with our eyes, they will no doubt move toward what is symmetrical and perfectly proportioned; lines and colors placed precisely to produce an aesthetically pleasing sight.

What if we close our eyes, and perceive what is beautiful in a person? I came up with these characteristics that would make anyone top-model beautiful- or at least on the inside.

GRACE: a disposition to kindness and compassion.

LOVE: a strong positive emotion of regard and affection.
DETERMINATION: the firmness of purpose; resolve.
KINDNESS: having or showing a tender and considerate and helpful nature.
INNOCENCE: freedom from harmfulness; inoffensiveness.
GENTLENESS: considerate or kindly in disposition; amiable and tender.
JOY: to fill with ecstatic happiness, pleasure, or satisfaction.

5 Common Misconceptions About Gay People—and Allow Me to Clear it up For You

Misconception: A mistaken thought, idea, or notion.


We are weak.

Wrong. Maybe it’s the fact that some of us show emotion so readily or cry in public easily, or maybe the fact that some of us cannot throw a ball- people see us as weak. Well, listen to this: If we were weak, how come after years of ridicule and spite from people and their dogs, we manage to survive? Better yet, how come a lot of gay people make it to the top ranks, rising against overwhelming odds? Maybe it’s the persistence or determination; or maybe it is just because we are sick of being walked all over.

We jump at every man we see.

Are you kidding me with this? Maybe its an ego trip or what, how come a lot of low-life men assume that we are ready to throw ourselves at their feet because they are men? Hello!! I have a penis too! LOL! There’s nothing you have that I don’t have. Ever heard of Quality Control? We implement them, and creeps don’t make the cut.

We are too emotional.

Some of us maybe so, but not all. Everyone, man or woman, gay or straight may feel strong emotions. What is in question is how one acts on it. Do not stereotype that as a “gay quality”.

We are all effeminate and love to wear women’s clothes.

Wrong again. You have probably met our cross dressing sisters- lovely aren’t they? But that does NOT encompass the whole of the gay population. You would not believe, but I met manly married men (yes, married to women) wanting to get some man-time on the side.

We are much more immoral than straight people and will surely go to hell.

I’m sorry, I must have missed something. Are you God? Because the last time I recall it is He who makes the judgments. There are moral straight men and women and immoral straight men and women. Also we have moral gay men and women and immoral gay men and women. It all boils down to personal conduct and faith, regardless of sexual orientation. Again, emphasis on refraining from judging gay people, let us leave that to God, shall we?

The Bottomline:

SEXUAL ORIENTATION SHOULD NEVER BE AN ISSUE, as much as race, gender, and social status. These should never be basis for discrimination. Period.

Why Dating is Hard

notti_boi 27, Makati

Ok, so I posted a profile online hoping to at least "ensnare" a decent date. I repeat, date- I did not say I'm gonna get married. So anyway, I check my messages and the ones below are what I got. My response to their message is the red-colored font.

From: Europeanguy3 [history]Date: 12 Apr 2007, 06:26you are a bottom, I am a top, im mascule, un complicated and looking for a REAL man to have some fun with,, someone who knows what he likes and likes to get it.interested? by the way, I am british, living here in Cebu now... let me know

Ano daw? Mascule? British ka ba talaga?

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From: anthony28 [history]Date: 03 May 2007, 09:48hi im anthony of makati, i like ur body so hot srap yakapin, pwede ko bang gwain yuni wan tto sex din syo, , ,

I’m not a whore, I’m not a whore, I’m not a whore!

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From: sphinxter [history]Date: 02 May 2007, 18:35i am a bit hesitant to hit the message button but i wanna take my chance.do i have a chance?

No.

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From: -SeX TaYo- [history]Date: 13 May 2007, 03:00john real name ko.. 19 3rd year student.. str8 to the point malibog ako.. gusto kita.. pero kung di sex ang gusto mo pwede rin naman akong maging kaibigan... di ako nagpopost ng face pic kasi discreet ako may mga klasmeyt akong bading na member ditoi at mahirap ng mahuli.. kung interesado ka messege ka lang o kaya text mo ko 09064435548 nga pla di ako gwapo pero di rin naman siguro sobrang panget..


DELETED.

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From: toploader [history]Date: 01 May 2007, 11:38nice pics bai. pang model kaayog dating. i bet ur a model ha

Sipsip!

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From: notti_boi [history]Date: 25 Apr 2007, 02:54puntahan na lang kita hehehepwede ba ako inyo mag stay? :)

Hmm teka lang, winner ang fez at body. Maginoo pero medyo bastos! Enter the dragon na tayo!!

That's his pic I posted above.. Oh well, the thing is I'm not in Manila anymore and I won't act on it. Sayang hehe

Will & Grace Funniest Bits

Speaking of WAG (thanks Ferdie for mentioning it!), I just couldn't resist to share my favorite bits from seasons 7 & 8. There is a lot of them so I'm gonna have to cut it in parts. I always remember Karen's annoying high-pitched voice- she was my fave kasi taklesa! Enjoy = )

Karen in the subway for the first time:

"What is this place? I've never seen a place so full of immigrants since the Moratamia pulled into Ellis Island."

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A fellow Janet Jackson backup dancer talks to Jack

Dancer: "Hello, you must be a newbie." Jack: "If that means do I shave down there, yes!"

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Karen and Jack planning what to get for Will's birthday: "So what do we get for Lady Gay?"

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Karen, quitting her job as Grace's assistant: "You know for years, I have religiously shown up occasionally at this office.."

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Karen, as Jack's secretary. Riiiing! Karen: "Jack McFarland's orifice."

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Karen talking with Grace about her job: "Last night,I accepted another position. And, after my date left I got a call about a new job."

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Vince cancels thanksgiving dinner at their place

Grace: "Great, no sex and no turkey"

Karen: "Either way, no stuffing for you."

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Grace: "Will is known for his perfect Thanksgivings. Except for the one where he proposed, told me he was gay, and snuck out of bed in the middle of the night. But I hardly think about that anymore."

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Karen: "Ok Grace, I'm going to tell you something I was saving for your eulogy..."

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Will, on why he doesn't want Jack to teach him how to swim:

"I wanna learn from someone that I know who is going to be there to pull me out of the pool. Not someone who puts diving rings on his neck and pretend he is a woman from Kenya!"

More to come! ; )

600 Hits, 36 Articles, and a Lot of Fulfillment in 6 Days

First things first. I know you are wondering what Eric McCormack's pic is doing next to mine. As I was sending invites and e-mails to people, wanting them to check this page so that it would help with my "second coming-out" (hehe nice term huh?), I had a lot of responses.

One in particular was from my brother. He said it was ok for me to me gay, as long as I don't go trannie or something. Perhaps a drag queen is what some people imagine when hear the word "gay". Eric's picture represents Will Truman, his character on Will & Grace. Will is a successful lawyer, good looking, sophisticated, sensible, and perhaps a little catty sometimes. That's what I want to be! Well, not a lawyer exactly but a person with substance and intelligence, and one who doesn't necessarily wear a dress.

What NOT to Wear

Miss Thang, Impostor the Cat Speaks!Time to get catty! Whip out those claws and read on!

Grr! It's that pariah that's always roaming our streets. Off with your cart!! Sandra Oh: "Ma'am, asan po yung mga labahan?"
Chorizo for sale!! Chorizo for sale!!

Meow! anong hayop ang nasa ulo mo? Hmmm "Nay, pahudma ko sa aton kurtina. Ibalik ko na lang ugma."Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle all the way..
Isang dancer sa Thunderdome na nakawala. Huy, magdamit ka naman! leche!
Galema: Ang Pagbabalik
Ladies, I better not see you in these clothes. Stick around for more okray-fest. Want to know more about Impostor the cat? Look under the Label Cloud (lower right side of the page), under Diva or Cat.

The Truth about Straight Men as Told by a Man, and What I Have to Say

I found this post in my friendster bulletin, and I couldn't resist adding my comments. What he has to say is in black, what I have to say in red font. Ready?

1. Ma-L. All men have sex in their minds. It's a universal truth. But to tell you frankly girls, it's not really our fault. God made us with high testosterone levels and our genes command us to act this way. If this isn't our natural tendency,then how would the human race procreate?It's a man's nature to be "ma-l" kaya wag niyo kaming sisisihin kung madalas kami humingi ng sex. Its our balls that command us, and not our brains.

Yeah right, perv! Blame genetics for your perpetual lust. Your balls command you? Come closer so I can reprogram it.

2. Liars. Dont ask me questions and I won't tell you lies. This is true, you know. Meron kasing mga bagay na hindi namin kayang I-share sa mga gf/asawa namin kaya nakakapagsinungaling kami, kasi pinipilit kaming sumagot sa mga bagay na ayaw naming sagutin. We try to hide things and if we cant hide it anymore,we lie. This tactic is perfected thru time kaya iyung ibang guys eh medyo natural na sa kanila ang mag-lie.Remember, we value our privacy and would rather lie than sacrifice losing it.

At least you finally admitted it. ".. pinipilit kaming sumagot sa mga bagay na ayaw naming sagutin.." Oh, GROW UP! There are things that you have to be accountable for and you need to explain yourself. Things your wife or gf might ask: Where were you last night? Why is there another woman's lipstick on your dick?

3. I'm the MAN! We must have this feeling that we are in control. Ayaw naming me kumander kami, iyung me nag-cocommand sa amin. We are open to suggestions, (though). And one more thing... if we say that we are not lost, We are not lost! Trust us. Don't you know that us guys eventually find our way. Girls really don't realize this but we hate it when our egos are bruised. RESPECT your man. Women take this thing for granted. Alam nyo, pagpaulit-ulit nagawa ito ng babae,naghahanap kami ng ibang babae. Why? 'Cause this is the easiest way for us to boost our egos again.

Wow, I never thought you guys were more insecure than a trannie who just lost her left boob. What's with the ego thing? Get over yourself! Perhaps people can trust you more if you prove you can do more than just slack around.. Don't get me wrong, there are intelligent men out there who know what they're doing. The majority? Those machos can barely write a grocery list.

4. Buddy. We stick with our friends. We must have time with our buddies you know? It's not everyday that only the gf/wife gets our time. We always have the need to do those "boys night out" stuff. The feeling is different when you are with your buddies and when you are with yourgf/wife. Babalik rin naman kami sa inyo e. Sigurado yan. Pag hindi kami bumalik...may mali kayo sa # 3.

Got it. Friends are important. You know what would even be better? If I'm your "buddy", especially if you look like Jon Mullally. ; )

5. Quiet. Sometimes, we are just plain quiet.This scenario happens all the time: GF/wife asks the bf/husband why he is quiet,the bf/husband says "nothing", then the gf/wife insists there's something wrong,when there is really not. Tapos, away na. Actually girls, we are not as chatty as you are, even with our buddies. Do you notice that we sometimes just nod at each other and still understand each other? We like being quiet sometimes.That's just it.

Ay oo nga, minsan para pala kayong mga Chimpanzee na nag-nod nod lang to each other. Girls, tama sila- if they are too chatty baka pareho kayong mahilig sa lalake ng BF mo. O diba Vungga!

ATTENTION, Muscle Freaks!

We have tackled grooming and skin care must-haves in the previous posts (click the label Beauty or Fitness to see all related articles), now let us turn our attention to weight management.

Ok, so I'm not an expert or a personal trainer, and its good that you are skeptical before you listen to someone's advice. But I did my homework and researched and read a lot of material before writing this, not to mention years and years of struggle on weight fluctuations I had myself- so I do know a few things.

The Philosophy of Fitness

Before you start dieting or going to the gym, make sure you get what the concept of fitness really is (in addition, make sure to check with your doctor as well!). Fitness is not just bulking up by working out at the gym like a maniac- because there are other facets to fitness. To better express my point, I'll use an example- Yoga. The practice of yoga focuses on breathing, meditation, fluidity of movement, flexibility, and strength. All of these result not only in a lean body, but also a calm mind. The approach is always holistic.

When a person decides to get fit, that means more than just doing aerobics in your living room and forgetting all other aspects such as proper diet, or mental fitness. To become truly fit and in the best condition one must make changes in his/her lifestyle. Do you sit on the couch all day? Smoke or drink excessively? Eat like there's no tomorrow? Or maybe you are stressed, or a person who worries too much. Think of the adjustments you have make on your current lifestyle, otherwise you efforts will be in vain (ever see those folks who are at the gym almost everyday, yet in 6 months acheived nothing?).

Instead on making a looong article, I will split them into separate posts. Here's the list of the succeeding posts:

1. Best Workout Practices

2. No-nonsense Weight Loss Foods and When to Eat Them

3. Pilates and Yoga New York Style: a Review

Watch out for them ; )

Top Six Indicators that Your Boyfriend is Gay

Photo to the left: lesbian couple.

Girl: Hon, ang bango ko no? Bagong ligo kasi.. Do you wanna...

Pa-Girl: Hon, are my legs too bony? Damn! Naubos na ang hair remover cream ko, leche. Babes, may I use your Sally Hansen na lang muna?

Girl: HUH?

Pa-Girl: Fly muna aketch sa CR! Kailangan ko na mag-wax ever! Are you sure I don't look fat in this robe?

Girl: HUH?

6 He knows more about make-up than you. “Hon, use brow powder, instead of brow pencil, its less shiny.. Revlon foundation is the best! Try the Age-defying line.” Fanny Serrano, ikaw bayan?

5 He has a suspiciously complete collection of CDs of Divas like Mariah, Whitney, Madonna, Kylie minogue, Regine, Lani Misalucha, and Cher. At avah! Alam nyang sayawin ang “vogue” ni Madonna at marami syang trivia tungkol sa mga idols nya.

4 Talakera. I haven’t encountered a straight guy who talks too much.. At daig nya pa si Ate Nole Marin at si Miss J Alexander ng ANTM kung mag-critique.

3 He uses Chenellyn, Chuvaness, Chuvannes-kemfet-nga-green, Echos, Chuvannay, Tiennes, Charmosity, and other gay lingo terms too much as a filler. “Babes, dun na lang tayo mag-dinner sa Fridays, ‘di ko bet ang place na ito! Marumi ang sink at ang chuva nila!” It could start innocently enough, dropping a word or two. Next thing you know he goes, “Anich itey! Ang chaka-ever ng bar-lalu na itetch. Mother, fly na lang tayesh sa Malate mas feel ko ang men, este crowd doon.” Yikes!

2 Mas maganda pa sya sa yo! Kung pageant ito, runner-up ka lang. Gay people are obsessed about appearances. If he starts asking you for the tenth time if the shirt he tried on makes him look fat, Heads up! Tatalbugan ka ng lola mo.

1 He is more interested in the cute waiter’s butt than your cleavage. Kilala nya kung sino sina Bret Mycles, Lukas Ridgeston, at Matthew Rush. Girl, hindi sila mga bayani ng America. If I were you, I’d bail out of that relationship- you are just his beard. But stay friends with him naman, malay mo magaling na stylist pala si lokah! Baka bigyan ka pa ng tips on how to please a man. Etching!

Pamintas vs. Parloristas

The gay universe is simply much, much more complex than what straight had thought.. Nowadays, we cannot just say "gay" or "straight"- we have bisexuals, "curious" straight people (read: pumapatol), transexuals, and even a lot of "subspecies" under the gay category. Two of these are the Pamintas (Pa-Mhin, or straight-acting) and the Parloristas (the more flamboyant, make-up wearing divas). Let us read through the article I found at Lastresestrellas blog:

The Parloristas: Mga bading na obvious. Not necessarily a cross-dresser pero mostly colorful ang wardrobe (and sometimes couture na ang dating). Di nahihiyang mag make-up in public. Maingay at rampadora ala Kate Moss pero mas bongga nga lang. Tarush!

Type na Papa: Playboy, este Palaboy na Macho (as in Alfred-Vargas-Macho). Not the type na mahilig mag-dyogdyogan sa mga Pamintas.

President: John Lapus.

The Pamintas: Syems bading din pero straight-acting naman. Discreet daw. Malalim ang boses ng karamihan (na medyo pilit na ang datech kung minsan). May division pa sila: One is the “out Type” and the other is the “Closeted Ones”. Divash? Vungga! Parang Organization talagah. Mostly mga gym buff sila. Palakihan ng katawan ang drama.

Type na Papa: their fellow pamintas. Exclusive ang mga gagah!

President: Piolo Pascual.

Personally, I'm happy the way I look- I mean, I don't want to wear dresses and all that. I am quite discreet so maybe that's why I lean more towards being Paminta. (More power to our President LOL!) Don't get me wrong, I looove gayspeak. If you read through some of the articles here (the one's where I criticize) super okray to the max ang lola nyoh! Just kidding. See? I can sound parlorista!

Probably my point is this: stop categorizing people (the gay and lesbian community, in particular)! Stereotypes and the stigma that comes with it should be history. We are people endowed with our own thinking, so let us learn to respect the variety and diversity of people. So, pamintas vs. parloristas? Ladies, its a tie!!

What they really mean in Personal Ads

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Buhay Call Center

1. Dahil halos di na kayo nagkikita ng nanay at tatay mo, ang tawag na nila sayo ay "boarder" at sinisingil ka na nila sa upa mo.
2. Pag sa sagot ka ng telepono, lagi na lang may opening spiel... example: *toot* .... thank you for calling (the company) this is (your name) how may I help you?
3. Eksperto ka na sa power nap, yung mga 15min break nyo, itinutulog mo na lang para fresh pagkacalls uli, mya na yung 1 hour nap.
4. Di mo na alam bumiyahe pag may araw, nalilito ka bakit andaming tao, at bakit di na dumadaanang dyip dun sa mga kalsada na 1 way.
5. Marami ka nang naiipong jacket... nakakahiya naman kung pare-pareho jacket mo araw-araw at super ginaw naman pag wala.
6. Sanay kang maglaka-lakad ng nakamedyas.
7. Ang tawag mo sa mga friends mo...dude, bro,coach,tl, sup.
8. Di na dugo ang dumadaloy sayo... kape.
9. Pinepeke mo na wag maging slang pagnagbabayad ka sa tindahan o kaya sa jeep parawag akalain na pasosyal ka... masama pa, maspanget pakinggan.
10. Tadaaaaa! nag sasalita ka sa pagtulog mo, pati calls mo napapanaginipan mo.
11. Pumuputi ka na dahil di ka na naaarawan.
12. Sanay ka nang matulog kahit maingay sa loob at labas ng bahay nyo.
13. Kinalimutan ka na ng mga kaibigan mo dahil existing ka lang pag tulog na sila.
14. Sanay ka na sa mga prank callers at mga death treats na nakasulat lang... sa dami ba naman ng ma-encounter mong ganito gabi-gabi sa trabaho eh.
15. Di ka na sanay sa traffic. Papasok at pauwi sa trabaho walang traffic.
16. Di na tama ang oras ng pagkain mo. Breeakfast mo ay hapunan na. Lunch mo sa madaling araw. Dinner mo pag uwi mo sa umaga.
17. Lahat ng kasabay mo sa jeep pag papasok ka,pagod na. Ikaw lang ang bagong ligo at bagong gel.
18. Maski sa bahay, mabilis kang kumain.
19. Hindi ka na kilala ng aso nyo
20. Ayaw mo na mag-jeep. Kailangan taxi or kayaaircon na bus.
21. Wala ka nang alam na balita.
22. Nahihiya kang magpunta sa mga reunion lalo na't alam mong successful lahat ng ka-batch mo.
23. Sasabihin mo field ng trabaho mo IT, di call center.
24. Nasusuka ka na pag nakita mo ang pc sabahay nyo..
25. Sasabihin mong tech support engineer ka, perorep ka lang..
26. Pag payday... olats lahat sweldo ng mga kaklase mong board passer. (8k per month langsila) isang kinsenas mo na yun..:P
27. Pag day off mo na lang ikaw nkakapaanood ng Eat Bulaga
28. Hindi mo na kilala ang mga bagong artista.
29. Hindi mo n alam itsura ng mall...
30. Di ka na maebs sa bahay, sanay ka na sa cr ng5th floor or ibang floor.
31. Madalas kulang gamit mo sa bahay dahil nasa locker
32. Ayaw mo nang pumasok sa internet cafe!
33. Alam mo kung sino si Avaya
34. Sanay ka nang pumasok ng bagong gising...kakabangon lang galing sleeping area.
35. Maglo-lock ka ng pc kahit sa bahay na. pagpindot mo ng CTRL + ALT+ DEL iba ang lalabas.
36. Sanay ka ng kumain sa harap ng pc mo kahit nsa bahay.
37. Papasok ka sa ofc na nka-jeans, tshirt and capastig!)
38. Mas malaki sweldo mo sa mga ka-batch mo, nagkakanda-kuba na sila sa trabaho nila
39. Puro ka-age mo mga ka-opisina mo, walang old maids and DOMs!!
40. Madalas ka na mag pabili ng corn bits atchicharon sa ermats mo...
41. Nakapanood ka na ng rally sa Ayala
42. Pag nakakarinig ka ng Kaching!!! akala momay mail ka na dumating. hehe
43. Nakita mo na lahat ng klase ng vendo machine
44. Dito sa opisina mo nararanasan nanapakabagal ng oras!
45. Lahat na ng rason para umabsent nagawa mo na
46. Sanay ka na makarinig ng napakalakas n pagsinga ng sipon.
47. Marami ka ng naipon na microwavable container
48. Marami kang ketchup packs galing mcdo at jollibee
49. Pag nagkukwento ka sa mga barkada jargon lahat. di nila maintindihan ang ibig sabihin ng ticket..
50. Hindi ka na sanay umakyat ng hagdan
51. Pag gumagamit ka ng cr, di ka na nagpa-flush..kasi akala mo kusa na lulubog ebs mo.
52. Sawa ka na internet kasi sa trabaho panay ang browsing..
53. During office hours, hindi ka lalabas ng building ng walang dalang relo. baka ma-OB.
54. Akala mo mo may sarili kang locker sa bahay nyo.
55. Marunong ka na makipagsagutan at makipagbarahan ng english
56. Sanay ka ng magyosi o umidlip pag alas dosat alas kwuatro ng umaga
57. Dito ka na makakakita ng gf, bf, or asawa. walaka ng time maghanap sa labas.
58. Pag may problema ka sa pc mo, una mong ginagawa ay clear cache at cookies.
59. Nanghihingi ka pa ng baon sa nanay mo kahit mas malaki sweldo mo sa kanya..
60. Nang ho-hoard ka na din ng tissue sa bahay
61. Kala mo libre ang kape sa select...
62. Libre parking mo sa building, klasmeyts monagbabayad araw-araw ng parking.
63. Pag nag cr ka...sanay ka na sa gripo naautomatic at toilet bowl...
64. Nakaipon ka na ng mouse ball sa bahay
65. Nagulat ka ng masabi mo ang opening spiel mo habang nagbabayad sa jeep
66. Naka id ka pa kahit nasa jeep
67. Kaya mong tiisin na hindi palitan ang damit mong 16 hours
68. Pagtinanong ng mga ka tropa mo kung ano ang sinusupport mo... sabihin mo msn.com(hahahaha!) kasi pag sinabi mong passport, hindi nila alam yun.
69. Mas sanay ka na mag Ctrl+C & Ctrl+V at nahihiya ka na ngayon mo lang nalaman yun.
70. Madalas mo harangin ang mga calls
71. Nasanay ka nang may katabing TL na hindi umuuwi. Pagpasok mo nandun na. Pag-uwi mo nandun pa rin.
72. Kahit may malaki kayong speaker sa bahaygusto mo pa din naka-earphones!
73. Gusto mo nang lumipat sa makati
74. Nung pinasok ng akyat bahay ang bahay nyo,magsisigaw ka ng HACKER!!! HACKER!!!
75. Minumura mo pag nakatalikod kahit sinong amerikano na makita mo. yan ung kausap ko kanina!!!
76. Pag tinatamad ka tumanggap ng tawag ,matapang ka na at alam mo na ang gagawin:RELEASE!
77. Puro kalyo na ang wrist at daliri mo
78. Sanay ka nang makipag-usap sa telepono sabahay kahit malakas ang TV. sa office parang limang na TV ang nakatapat sayo habang maykausap.
79. Pumasok ka na ng puyat, lasing at gutom
80. May picture ka ng nakasuot ng headset
81. Sanay ka nang matulog ng dilat ang mata. Hindi pwede pahuli.
82. Lahat ng style ng pagtulog maiisip mo.
83. Lahat ng kaibigan mo may christmas vacation ikaw wala
84. Mas gusto mo na mag warm transfer sa ibang department para makatulog ka habang naka-mute at nakikinig sa usapan nila
85. Yung ex mo may kasama ng iba
86. Lahat ng holiday pumapasok ka kasi doublepay malaki ang bayad.
87. Dito ka na sa opisina nakabili lahat ng gamit mo:kwintas, sabon, shampoo, tocino, longganisa,hikaw, magazine, aso, libro, tshirt, prepaid card,eload, dvd, vcd, yema, corn bits...
88. Dito ka na nasanay kumain ng pagkain na luto sa microwave
89. Palaging matabang ang kape sa office
90. Imposibleng hindi ka pa nakatanggap ka na ng memo
91. Gusto mo na den bumili ng water dispenserkasi pitsel lang ang nasa bahay nyo.
92. Nakakausap ka na ng pilipino sa ibang bansa
93. Dami mo na naiipon na stirrer (red) galing starbucks kakabili ng kape.
94. Nasanay ka nang magpadeliver ng pagkain.
95. Nakakita ka ng artista na nagbebenta ng pagkain sa pantry.
96. Dito ka lang makakakita ng pinagsama-samang tinda na: medyas, vitamins, christmas lights, cologne. yosi, siomai at lahat ng klase ngpagkain, relos, kalendaryo, stuff toys, make up,kikay kit,deodorant, kwintas, sasakyan, camera,video, audio, foot spa , milk spa, bags wallet,sinturon, mamon, hamon...
97. Dito ka na expose sa tapa king, zuppa, yellowcab, jugnos, bermuda hotel's pancit canton,wendy's. north park, starbucks
98. Di mo maenjoy christmas party kasi kaylangan mo bumalik sa office dahil may pasok ka pa ng Cshift.
99. Ice tea ka lang, mga kasama mo.. beer!
100. May bago kang damit kada sweldo dahil takotka makarinig na naman na paulit-ulit ang suot mo.

call center life 2-- my favorites

North park yang chao rice at calamares
Galera escapades
Eat during 15 minute break, nap during 1 hour break
Release ng call ng irate na caller na ginawa mo na lahat galit pa rin
barahin ang caller
Chika galore with fellow tms/ sups kunyari valid coaching daw
French baker breakfast
Starbucks coffee jelly yum!!pag-usapan and mga boss nyong kano
Umuwi ng parang zombie
Magdala ng sleeping bag sa office kasi laging puno ang sleeping area
Mangutang sa caterer hahaha
Sabay sabay mag-withdraw at 2am in the morning sa atm sa ground floor
Shopping galore every other Friday (pag payday)
Naka-costume pumasok pag Halloween
Kabisado mo ang PST, DST, EST at equivalent nito sa oras ditto sa pinas
Magtrabaho sa lahat ng holidays—Christmas, new year, holy week
May accent ka pag nag English