I remember few weeks ago, this cashier at a local store here in Heber, asked me if I was from the East Coast. I smiled and said, "No, I'm from here in Heber." And he looked funny at me when I walked away.
So, when I was in California and in Minneapolis last week, I have received some comments from random folks (who don't really know me) and said to me, "You look like you're from the East Coast!" It didn't bother me, but when I was in the Twin Cities, I received the same comments.... I didn't quite know what it means. I asked myself, "Was I rude or arrogant, and what is that look from the East Coast?"
Having been sick since I came back, and for few days now, I had to find out what that means. I asked my Facebook friends and even my aunt in New Jersey, and their comments were positive and that I should take it as a compliment, a good one in fact.
I googled and now I understood that it was a fashion statement... I must be looking good like Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City, strutting in my 4 inch high heels, my huge flower ring, and bling-bling necklace, and looking like a high powered Manhattan bitch in my black suit. And I must be wearing my fierce "I'm-independent-I-can-take-care-of-my-self" attitude.
So... I started to make my own observation, here in our little Utah town of Heber. After work, I walked in the grocery store, and people were shopping in pajamas, sweats, slippers, torn t-shirts, messed up hair, some looking like crap with no make up and no bra (God forgive them)... and I was in my work suit, on my platform suede booties, looking sharp and shiny. And now I realized that I'm different... but not really from the East Coast.
So whatever happened now to the promdi lad I once knew who has turned into a country western rocky mountain diva? I guess she's hiding in the closet.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
A Glimpse of Sad Reality Abroad at My "Caregiver" Experience
So, I watched this latest and greatest movie "Caregiver" of Sharon Cuneta last night and I wasn’t expecting very much from it because I thought I’ve seen every forsaken and battered Filipino domestic-helper-abroad kind of movie flick….. I thought, what else could be new in this one? Until I caught myself wiping my damn tears at the first part of the movie... then I said, "So, this is what's new, pussy cat!" Kleenex please.
I don't know why I easily get carried away by these kinds of Filipino drama... Although this is quite far from my own story here in the US, I know I always try to seek something personal that I can relate to in any OFW theme movies.
Few scenes I want to mention that moved me personally:
1. The scene when Sarah (Sharon's character) spent her last days with her old grandmother. I remember I spent time with my Lola Salud before I left to the US. She passed away a year or so later and sadly, I was not there in her funeral.
2. The scene where she was buying her jacket with her son. I was with my mom when I bought my winter jacket in the same ukay-ukay market.
3. When her husband welcomed her at the airport. My husband (my fiance then) also picked me up from the airport and I remember we were promising to help each other fulfill all our dreams together here in the US.
4. The scene in the laundromat and the scene where she was walking in the snowstorm. Do I need to say more?
The story of Caregiver is very factual and convincing in my own experience and point of view. And really, you don't have to be a Caregiver in London to go through this cinematic experience. It is happening to almost everyone (no matter what your job is), and everywhere abroad, even in front of my own eyes, through the colorful lives of my closest friends and some relatives ...
For example: Good mother left child behind, good wife married to a jerk, good wife fed up and left jerk, good mom takes child, good mom leaves child to babysitters so good mom can work, child turned into problem child as good mom is always working, good mom depressed and looks for second chance in love to solve her problems, good wife marries another jerk.... and the same story goes on around again. Happy?
Or let's go the complicated story, good husband left wife for abroad to provide better life to his family back home, good husband works hard abroad, good husband gets lonely, another girl gets lonely, good husband abroad lives in with lonely girl who also left good husband back home to take care of family, who also wants to provide better life for her family.... sounds familiar?
That's the sad reality of life most Filipino abroad has to go through to earn this damn dollar or pounds, or whatever. And that's the quality of life that most families have to have, as chosen by their good parents only wanting to provide better life and future for their children. That's the kind of sacrifice that inevitably most Filipinos unconsciously fantasize when they think that the Philippines is hopeless, and that they need to work or live abroad, and leave their loved ones behind.
Lastly, may I say, I have a lot of respect to all these OFWs around the world and their own heroism to their families, especially the ones in the nursing and caregiving jobs. Here's the best lines in the movie that I believe have made impact to their chosen profession:
"Some time, when you least expect it, someone will come into your life and make you feel less lonely, less alone... For me you are that person. You care for people. You give them what they've lost to life down the years, their dignity, and hope and joy and even fun... There's not very many jobs that can top that!"
My own start-up story may not be as dramatic and worthy of a movie, but I've written a blog about it before. Click here to read my Promdi In America, Lost in Transition.
I don't know why I easily get carried away by these kinds of Filipino drama... Although this is quite far from my own story here in the US, I know I always try to seek something personal that I can relate to in any OFW theme movies.
Few scenes I want to mention that moved me personally:
1. The scene when Sarah (Sharon's character) spent her last days with her old grandmother. I remember I spent time with my Lola Salud before I left to the US. She passed away a year or so later and sadly, I was not there in her funeral.
2. The scene where she was buying her jacket with her son. I was with my mom when I bought my winter jacket in the same ukay-ukay market.
3. When her husband welcomed her at the airport. My husband (my fiance then) also picked me up from the airport and I remember we were promising to help each other fulfill all our dreams together here in the US.
4. The scene in the laundromat and the scene where she was walking in the snowstorm. Do I need to say more?
The story of Caregiver is very factual and convincing in my own experience and point of view. And really, you don't have to be a Caregiver in London to go through this cinematic experience. It is happening to almost everyone (no matter what your job is), and everywhere abroad, even in front of my own eyes, through the colorful lives of my closest friends and some relatives ...
For example: Good mother left child behind, good wife married to a jerk, good wife fed up and left jerk, good mom takes child, good mom leaves child to babysitters so good mom can work, child turned into problem child as good mom is always working, good mom depressed and looks for second chance in love to solve her problems, good wife marries another jerk.... and the same story goes on around again. Happy?
Or let's go the complicated story, good husband left wife for abroad to provide better life to his family back home, good husband works hard abroad, good husband gets lonely, another girl gets lonely, good husband abroad lives in with lonely girl who also left good husband back home to take care of family, who also wants to provide better life for her family.... sounds familiar?
That's the sad reality of life most Filipino abroad has to go through to earn this damn dollar or pounds, or whatever. And that's the quality of life that most families have to have, as chosen by their good parents only wanting to provide better life and future for their children. That's the kind of sacrifice that inevitably most Filipinos unconsciously fantasize when they think that the Philippines is hopeless, and that they need to work or live abroad, and leave their loved ones behind.
Lastly, may I say, I have a lot of respect to all these OFWs around the world and their own heroism to their families, especially the ones in the nursing and caregiving jobs. Here's the best lines in the movie that I believe have made impact to their chosen profession:
"Some time, when you least expect it, someone will come into your life and make you feel less lonely, less alone... For me you are that person. You care for people. You give them what they've lost to life down the years, their dignity, and hope and joy and even fun... There's not very many jobs that can top that!"
My own start-up story may not be as dramatic and worthy of a movie, but I've written a blog about it before. Click here to read my Promdi In America, Lost in Transition.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
My Blah Moment of the Day - Maternal Exposure
I'm not sure if this is sensitive to share to all but I know it's hilarious (at least in my opinion)!
A couple of weeks ago, I attended a birthday party of my friend's son in Park City. After grabbing my plate of greasy but delicious Filipino food, I sat on a table next to a beautiful Mexican woman carrying her newborn child... alone in this patio table. Being my friendly self, I started the conversation about how pretty her baby is and how old and what's her name... blah, blah, blah.... and a minute later, her left boob happily and candidly joined our conversation. No kidding! I was totally disoriented for a minute and shocked how quickly this all happened, and I understood that very moment why there was no one sitting on her table. It was not a friendly nor a pleasurable site.
But that is not all.... I refused to move to another table. Instead, I stared at her exposed milkful boob ashamed to myself... and I thought, was that her freaking areola? I looked at it again, and again, and again... and yes, it was horrible and as big as her baby's face!!
I know I wanted to become a mother someday... but give me a break! I ain't having that thing.
So did I tell her? No. I was too ashamed to myself. I'll tell you if you have a bugger or if you're fly is open (no, I won't), but this time, I didn't say a word... until now.
Few days before this happened, me and my husband watched the 40-Year-Old Virgin movie of Steve Carrel (highly recommended to all but beware of the language!). My favorite funniest scene in the movie was the speed dating scene with the woman with exposed breast while she was casually interviewing... I didn't know that it was a premonition that I will encounter such blah moment in real life.
The moral of the story is, no plunging necklines to new moms, please! Yeah, your baby is cute but your boob isn't! Just keep them to yourself.
A couple of weeks ago, I attended a birthday party of my friend's son in Park City. After grabbing my plate of greasy but delicious Filipino food, I sat on a table next to a beautiful Mexican woman carrying her newborn child... alone in this patio table. Being my friendly self, I started the conversation about how pretty her baby is and how old and what's her name... blah, blah, blah.... and a minute later, her left boob happily and candidly joined our conversation. No kidding! I was totally disoriented for a minute and shocked how quickly this all happened, and I understood that very moment why there was no one sitting on her table. It was not a friendly nor a pleasurable site.
But that is not all.... I refused to move to another table. Instead, I stared at her exposed milkful boob ashamed to myself... and I thought, was that her freaking areola? I looked at it again, and again, and again... and yes, it was horrible and as big as her baby's face!!
I know I wanted to become a mother someday... but give me a break! I ain't having that thing.
So did I tell her? No. I was too ashamed to myself. I'll tell you if you have a bugger or if you're fly is open (no, I won't), but this time, I didn't say a word... until now.
Few days before this happened, me and my husband watched the 40-Year-Old Virgin movie of Steve Carrel (highly recommended to all but beware of the language!). My favorite funniest scene in the movie was the speed dating scene with the woman with exposed breast while she was casually interviewing... I didn't know that it was a premonition that I will encounter such blah moment in real life.
The moral of the story is, no plunging necklines to new moms, please! Yeah, your baby is cute but your boob isn't! Just keep them to yourself.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Recent Trip to my Dental Memory Lane
Hello friends! You're probably wondering whatever happened to me and my blogging... I just hibernated offline. That's all. Let me bring back my funny self here again. I know some of you miss my blogs and my sweet and innocent sarcasm. I know I do! Well, I haven't changed much except my hair is longer now... I'm still the same kind and loving person that you knew who will never raise a finger at you, even if you're a d-ck like Kanye West. Smiling now? Good.
Well today, I went to my semi-annual dentist visit. Nothing too exciting happened as everything is good, and I didn't swallow anything that they put in my mouth, and they didn't rip my lips apart. They always complimented my shoes and purse, then my teeth! My dentist always tells me that I have the most beautiful teeth and that I just saved my self $5K for taking good care of it all these years. I want to give that credit to my mother who's been very concerned of our teeth since we were little kids.
I observed all these years that I've lived in the US that kids visiting the dentists are always happy and excited. They are given treats and treated really well. They're all smiling and having a good time.
Let me take you back 30 years ago in the little town I grew up in, called Sta. Cruz, Marinduque. I have a different experience as a kid visiting the dentist. I can't remember the name of this only male dentist in town (I'm sure my mom or my dad can tell whom I'm talking about...), but I still remember his dental office was dark and scary on a second floor building near our church, and he was smoking and a bit drunk sometimes, and always has blood shot eyes. I was terrified of him every time! It only took forever before a new lady dentist came in town.
Maybe nobody ever knew this, but when I was a little kid, there's two things that I wanted to have in life.... I wanted to wear eyeglasses and I wanted to have dentures! No kidding! I've always looked at my grandparents' dentures at night with such delight in this clear glass... It was emerged in water and I thought they were so beautiful and special. One night, when I thought my Lolo Sabino was already asleep, I tried his dentures on... yes, both of them in my mouth... Ok, I'll stop now as it's gross. Long story short, I changed my mind that night and decided I have to take care of my own teeth and keep it as long as I can. I got my wishes on the eyeglasses at 6th grade, but no thanks for the dentures.
You want to hear my opinion on dentures and gums? I swore before that I will never marry a man with dentures, and I didn't. I also remember telling my sister before not to ever date a man with purple gums as they can't be trusted. I don't know where I got that from, but obviously I still think that until now.
Well today, I went to my semi-annual dentist visit. Nothing too exciting happened as everything is good, and I didn't swallow anything that they put in my mouth, and they didn't rip my lips apart. They always complimented my shoes and purse, then my teeth! My dentist always tells me that I have the most beautiful teeth and that I just saved my self $5K for taking good care of it all these years. I want to give that credit to my mother who's been very concerned of our teeth since we were little kids.
I observed all these years that I've lived in the US that kids visiting the dentists are always happy and excited. They are given treats and treated really well. They're all smiling and having a good time.
Let me take you back 30 years ago in the little town I grew up in, called Sta. Cruz, Marinduque. I have a different experience as a kid visiting the dentist. I can't remember the name of this only male dentist in town (I'm sure my mom or my dad can tell whom I'm talking about...), but I still remember his dental office was dark and scary on a second floor building near our church, and he was smoking and a bit drunk sometimes, and always has blood shot eyes. I was terrified of him every time! It only took forever before a new lady dentist came in town.
Maybe nobody ever knew this, but when I was a little kid, there's two things that I wanted to have in life.... I wanted to wear eyeglasses and I wanted to have dentures! No kidding! I've always looked at my grandparents' dentures at night with such delight in this clear glass... It was emerged in water and I thought they were so beautiful and special. One night, when I thought my Lolo Sabino was already asleep, I tried his dentures on... yes, both of them in my mouth... Ok, I'll stop now as it's gross. Long story short, I changed my mind that night and decided I have to take care of my own teeth and keep it as long as I can. I got my wishes on the eyeglasses at 6th grade, but no thanks for the dentures.
You want to hear my opinion on dentures and gums? I swore before that I will never marry a man with dentures, and I didn't. I also remember telling my sister before not to ever date a man with purple gums as they can't be trusted. I don't know where I got that from, but obviously I still think that until now.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Rising Back from the Dead
So it's Michael Jackson's death that made me rise again from the dead moments here in my blog.
Here's what really happened: I HAD A REAL TASTE LIFE!!
I took a vacation, ramped on the beach, and met my Peninsula friends. Then got busy again with work. Been getting fat and getting thin every other moody day. Hosted a pageant. Went to a lot fun parties and met new people. Went dancing with friends. Painted our basement. Drunk a tube of tanning lotion. Laughed out loud. Sung my heart out. Kicked some butt.
The highlight of my long hibernation, believe it or not, is my obsession of Adam Lambert (American Idol runner up). I was shocked and crushed when he did not win!! It took me weeks to heal my broken heart. I know, that was like so dumb of me. So what if he's gay? For me, he's talented and hot and sexy and beautiful...
Please allow me to celebrate another moment with my American Idol Adam Lambert. Here's my favorite performance - "If I Can't Have You, Adam Lambert, I don't want nobody baby".....
Here's what really happened: I HAD A REAL TASTE LIFE!!
I took a vacation, ramped on the beach, and met my Peninsula friends. Then got busy again with work. Been getting fat and getting thin every other moody day. Hosted a pageant. Went to a lot fun parties and met new people. Went dancing with friends. Painted our basement. Drunk a tube of tanning lotion. Laughed out loud. Sung my heart out. Kicked some butt.
The highlight of my long hibernation, believe it or not, is my obsession of Adam Lambert (American Idol runner up). I was shocked and crushed when he did not win!! It took me weeks to heal my broken heart. I know, that was like so dumb of me. So what if he's gay? For me, he's talented and hot and sexy and beautiful...
Please allow me to celebrate another moment with my American Idol Adam Lambert. Here's my favorite performance - "If I Can't Have You, Adam Lambert, I don't want nobody baby".....
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Michael Jackson, You are not alone....
I still could not believe that Michael Jackson has passed away as I watch his memorial service on TV this evening. I truly grieved with my broken heart today and I will not deny it that I'm actually writing back in my blog (after a long hibernation) with such intense emotion, for one artist whose songs shaped my youth with his positive messages. Michael Jackson is the only American singer I know as a child. For many years, I have collected his music DVDs and concert videos as I enjoy seeing him sing and dance. I am one of those people who did not really care about his scandals, but I truly admired him as a singer and performer. He will be missed and he will remain alive singing and dancing in my heart.
Here's one of my most favorite Michael Jackson songs and video, as I finally say goodbye to him... I will be remembering him forever with much love and adoration... Michael, You are not alone, I am here with you. Though we're far apart, you're forever in my heart...
Here's one of my most favorite Michael Jackson songs and video, as I finally say goodbye to him... I will be remembering him forever with much love and adoration... Michael, You are not alone, I am here with you. Though we're far apart, you're forever in my heart...
Thursday, April 23, 2009
My BLAH Moment of the Day - Marilyn Monroe
So, I was sooo excited this week for the warmer weather! Finally, I could wear my favorite skirts and shoes! Everything was going great for me! I had my SPF 70 on... the sun was out... I was smiling as I walk to my car... breathing the fresh air.... digging in my purse to find my stupid car key... until the wind blew up my skirt! And OMG!!! I was freakin' Marilyn Monroe for a moment....
It felt cool for a minute, but I was sweating out of embarrasment on my way home... because I thought that was HOT!
It felt cool for a minute, but I was sweating out of embarrasment on my way home... because I thought that was HOT!
Sunday, April 19, 2009
My Fabulous Birthday Blog
So... I just turned thirty something on April 19th!
Since my trip for this weekend has been cancelled, I was able to put together a last minute birthday eve get together with my closest friends. I had no time to prepare, so I just served them cheese dip and chips, grapes and roasted peanuts!
You all know I like to sing karaoke, so it will not pass my birthday without me recording a song (duet) for all of you. This is me and my amazing friend, Eryq, doing a showdown of "Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang." This is sooo hilarious! (Thanks to you who gave us 5-stars on this video!)Here's my new favorite birthday photo taken in Kamas on April 19th. My husband took this stolen photo of me...
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Friday, April 17, 2009
Tale of a Terminal Gate Traveller
So I thought I will be in Seattle today.
My tale of a terminal gate traveller today began when my 11AM Delta flight out of Salt Lake City to Seattle was moved to another gate, got delayed 3 times, then eventually cancelled at 1PM due to mechanical aircraft problem. My day battle at the terminal to get to Seattle (my company is sending me to present in a day sales event) started with a 3 mile marathon in my high heels from one gate to another and back and forth among 70+ blood-thirsty passengers bitefighting for 2 forsaken seats! After two frustrating and failed attempts to be watilisted, 3 bottles of Snapples, one chicken sandwich and a Krispy Creme, I just had to give up and end this saga of this miserable trip. I have decided to just cancel my entire flight, hotel and shuttle as it was not meant to be. Pout! Then I found out that my luggage managed to fly on its own to Seattle to do the sales mission for me!
One interesting moment in my last terminal gate was when I was chatting with a couple of passengers and I handed them out my business cards. He recognized me as a Filipina and asked if I have a website? Pause. I was flattered for a second! In my mind, which one should I give him? Business or personal? I have way too many! So I asked him instead to just Google my name and check my Google Profile and he can check which website he wants to see...
To remind me of this learning experience, and to treat myself after all that I have gone through my terminal gate journey, I managed to shop and bought this thick beaded necklace and this fabulous purse at 75% off!
My tale of a terminal gate traveller today began when my 11AM Delta flight out of Salt Lake City to Seattle was moved to another gate, got delayed 3 times, then eventually cancelled at 1PM due to mechanical aircraft problem. My day battle at the terminal to get to Seattle (my company is sending me to present in a day sales event) started with a 3 mile marathon in my high heels from one gate to another and back and forth among 70+ blood-thirsty passengers bitefighting for 2 forsaken seats! After two frustrating and failed attempts to be watilisted, 3 bottles of Snapples, one chicken sandwich and a Krispy Creme, I just had to give up and end this saga of this miserable trip. I have decided to just cancel my entire flight, hotel and shuttle as it was not meant to be. Pout! Then I found out that my luggage managed to fly on its own to Seattle to do the sales mission for me!
One interesting moment in my last terminal gate was when I was chatting with a couple of passengers and I handed them out my business cards. He recognized me as a Filipina and asked if I have a website? Pause. I was flattered for a second! In my mind, which one should I give him? Business or personal? I have way too many! So I asked him instead to just Google my name and check my Google Profile and he can check which website he wants to see...
To remind me of this learning experience, and to treat myself after all that I have gone through my terminal gate journey, I managed to shop and bought this thick beaded necklace and this fabulous purse at 75% off!
But at the end of the day, I am just really, really happy that I am finally back home and have my beloved twins in my arms... and write a blog about it!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Britney Spears Circus Concert in Salt Lake City, April 14
There are only two words that can describe Britney Spears and her Circus Concert in Salt Lake City on April 14th: SPECTACULAR SHOW!!! I felt like I was in a Las Vegas show! There was a magician who did magic on her and I thought that was really cool! I highly recommend that you be a part of this party of a lifetime.... so, pick up your 5 inch heels high thigh boots, fishnet stockings, micro-mini skirt, bling-bling bra, and feathers!
Here's my video of the show's opening number from Salt Lake City!
I have read and seen the reviews of this concert tour before I decided to buy my tickets. So, I already knew what to expect. She lip-syncs and she doesn't dance as much anymore like the old days. But I went there to see Britney Spears and how well she can bring on a show, and it was an amazing experience for me. It was well-worth it!! She didn't walk out. She didn't say nasty things. She filled the Energy Solutions Arena with her thousands of maniac Utah fans, from little girls to hot mommas, from teens to yuppies, from gays to drag queens!
So, since this is my once in a lifetime Britney moment, I have two missions.... #1, to make my husband deaf after the show as I was screaming on his face like a mad cow, and #2, I wanted to look like her if she was a Fabulous Pinay!
Here's my video of the show's opening number from Salt Lake City!
I have read and seen the reviews of this concert tour before I decided to buy my tickets. So, I already knew what to expect. She lip-syncs and she doesn't dance as much anymore like the old days. But I went there to see Britney Spears and how well she can bring on a show, and it was an amazing experience for me. It was well-worth it!! She didn't walk out. She didn't say nasty things. She filled the Energy Solutions Arena with her thousands of maniac Utah fans, from little girls to hot mommas, from teens to yuppies, from gays to drag queens!
So, since this is my once in a lifetime Britney moment, I have two missions.... #1, to make my husband deaf after the show as I was screaming on his face like a mad cow, and #2, I wanted to look like her if she was a Fabulous Pinay!
Monday, April 13, 2009
The Hannah Montana in Me
I personally related to Hannah Montana in her new movie that I watched today.
When I was updating the new layout of all my blogs to create my own brand and identity in the bloggers' world, I felt that I have finally reached the point that I've become very comfortable not only in writing my thoughts, but in the character of the "Fabulous Pinay Diva" that I have created here in my blogs. I thought I was ready to forget the small town promdi that I used to be. But no. She's still lives in me and I sadly felt that I hardly know her now...
The first time I heard Miley Cyrus' song, "The Climb," I already know that this is my kind of song. Rightly so. Here's the video of the song that moved me...
Long time ago, I have climbed on different mountains, and I still do... but just thinking of how far and how fast I have climbed now, I can see that the view is just beautiful... but it's not about the view that mattered inside my heart.
It's the climb.
When I was updating the new layout of all my blogs to create my own brand and identity in the bloggers' world, I felt that I have finally reached the point that I've become very comfortable not only in writing my thoughts, but in the character of the "Fabulous Pinay Diva" that I have created here in my blogs. I thought I was ready to forget the small town promdi that I used to be. But no. She's still lives in me and I sadly felt that I hardly know her now...
The first time I heard Miley Cyrus' song, "The Climb," I already know that this is my kind of song. Rightly so. Here's the video of the song that moved me...
Long time ago, I have climbed on different mountains, and I still do... but just thinking of how far and how fast I have climbed now, I can see that the view is just beautiful... but it's not about the view that mattered inside my heart.
It's the climb.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Why I could have been... Adam Lambert
I've always wondered what I would look like if ever I was a guy, gay... gay-guy... whatever. After watching Adam Lambert perform the first time in American Idol, he's already my Idol favorite for a million reasons... his infectious voice, his exciting rough and smooth looks, and his Youtube videos! But it's not only that... if ever I was reincarnated to be as equally talented as him, I would be him!
We have the same hair color/hairstyle, and the same smile!
We both like to use thick, black eyeliner, and wants to look sultry...
We both like to pout our lips, polish our nails, and do the Tyra Banks pose!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
My April Fools Day Surprise
The other night, my husband called me that someone is on the way to deliver a "something" to me and that I should take it from the handler... And that he will explain everything later! I said, OK! Five minutes later, my baby boy (Shih Tzu), Shilo, was scared and nervous to death and won't stop barking, and my little brat girl, Lily, has been curious, anxious, and delirious of our new feathery visitor in a tiny doggy carrier.
Everyone, please be nice and say "Hello" to Paco, the African Gray Parrot!
This is Paco's story: He was given away to us by a local friend who is moving to the city, and she couldn't take him along with her. (Gasp!) She had him for a long, long time, and she's really saddened to give him up.... (Weep!) He was quiet and thinking, "Where am I and what am I doing here?"
His beautiful cage is in our shoe/mud room for now as I thought he can't be with my puppies. I thought we will try to get rid of him eventually and try to find him a new home, and that he'll just hang out with us for a while... or so I thought! Until last night when my husband told me that Paco will now be our third (adopted) child, and that he will be Lily's new little brother... (Oh, no!)
When Paco heard this, he started to become more comfortable and he tried to win my heart by letting me hear him sing along American Idol last night. So, I took this video of him today and he was like singing to me "Happy April Fool's Day, Momma!" Please take a bird moment to hear his heart-winning voice...
Monday, March 30, 2009
My Blog's Brand Identity Crisis
I was reading lately about how to make my blog a success by keeping a brand identity. Like readers want to see something that they will expect out of you everytime they see your blog. I realized that I really don't have one and I have been blogging for almost two years now. I'm not surprised because I knew back then from the start that I have a blog identity crisis, which only my family and friends can understand on a personal level (since I only write about personal schtuffs here!). But I see that random people who doesn't really know me take a peak at my confessions blog and they find me a little bit weird... like a split-breed between a rebellious bionic woman turned gay-drag queen versus your small town dream girl next door turned vain fashionista country living diva!!!
Good example is when I experimented and featured my resort here in my personal blog for a few times last week, and I see that few passers-by got really excited about what more I have to say about my work. My tone was straight forward and some people liked it, and they liked me just like a scoop of plain vanilla... (Or I think, my hot photo in my two-piece swimsuit really helped!! Uh-huh!!)
Then all of a sudden, I posted my pre-meditated goofy self image in a curly blonde wig and they thought they were haunted all of a sudden by a drunken, retarded blogger who is chanting "Ur So gay and you don't even like boys....."
So, to take my "straight face and professional life" to the next level and start building my brand identity in the bloggers' world, thus the creation of my new Utah Savvy Diva blog came to place. If you like me "straight and pro," check out my work blog.
And for all of you who are enchanted by my personal blog identity crisis and usual crazy antics here in my confessions blog, just stick with me.
Good example is when I experimented and featured my resort here in my personal blog for a few times last week, and I see that few passers-by got really excited about what more I have to say about my work. My tone was straight forward and some people liked it, and they liked me just like a scoop of plain vanilla... (Or I think, my hot photo in my two-piece swimsuit really helped!! Uh-huh!!)
Then all of a sudden, I posted my pre-meditated goofy self image in a curly blonde wig and they thought they were haunted all of a sudden by a drunken, retarded blogger who is chanting "Ur So gay and you don't even like boys....."
So, to take my "straight face and professional life" to the next level and start building my brand identity in the bloggers' world, thus the creation of my new Utah Savvy Diva blog came to place. If you like me "straight and pro," check out my work blog.
And for all of you who are enchanted by my personal blog identity crisis and usual crazy antics here in my confessions blog, just stick with me.
Check out my new UTAH SAVVY DIVA Blog
As you can see, I did a little bit of an experiment here in my blog featuring where I work, and I was surprised that I have increased my readership just by featuring my resort. Since I wanted to keep doing this blogging of my work, I have created a new blog just dedicated for my professional life and my passion in promoting Utah as a travel destination, especially the Wasatch County area, emphasizing on fun things to do and where to go in Heber Valley and Midway, Utah, where I live and work! So if you like my Zermatt Resort Blog, please follow instead my new UTAH SAVVY DIVA Blog at http://czarinatrinidadatwork.blogspot.com/. See you there!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Me at Work (Really? Really!)
I have bragged enough here in my vlog where I go to work. Now, you're probably wondering what do I do there... Ahmmm, I chose to skip that part. But let's just say that I'm very passionate at what I do at work! (But then I tried googling my name and tah-dah!! I realize that I can not hide anymore!!)
Let's put it this way, I have a big responsibility at work. I'm very professional, highly motivated hard-worker, and I possess skills that's unique and out of this world! In short, I'm the Diva in the office!
Most of the times, I'm like a very, very plain vanilla ice cream, no topping, no coating, no nuts, no frosting, nothing too exciting...
And on a stressful day, I get easily tempted to be friends with Mrs. Doughnuts, and his wonderful children, Cookie and Brownie!
And when I feel like kicking @ss at work, I sing along with Katy Perry's Ur So Gay!!
Let's put it this way, I have a big responsibility at work. I'm very professional, highly motivated hard-worker, and I possess skills that's unique and out of this world! In short, I'm the Diva in the office!
Most of the times, I'm like a very, very plain vanilla ice cream, no topping, no coating, no nuts, no frosting, nothing too exciting...
And on a stressful day, I get easily tempted to be friends with Mrs. Doughnuts, and his wonderful children, Cookie and Brownie!
And when I feel like kicking @ss at work, I sing along with Katy Perry's Ur So Gay!!Friday, March 27, 2009
My R&R Weekend at the Zermatt Resort in Midway, Utah
Last Saturday, March 21st, was the first sunniest and warmest day of the month. It was a perfect 67 degrees! I took a weekend of retreat and recreation here with a couple of my friends for a relaxing spa get-away. We started with an awesome Pancake breakfast buffet at the Schneitter's Restaurant that Saturday morning, then hiked around the block of Zermatt Resort, until we reached the top of the Homestead Crater just across the street from Zermatt.
I didn't know that I could be incognito for real to my co-workers at Zermatt just by showing up with no make up, with wavy hair and headband, and in my athletic gear! Not sure if they were still impressed with my low maintenance look during my weekend retreat (I usually look like a diva on a good day at work at Zermatt!!), but this is how I look then! This is gutsy of me to post these photos but I wasn't that bad without make up.
This was at the driveway going the hotel and conference center building at Zermatt Resort!
This was at the top of Homestead Crater with Zermatt Resort at the background. Awesome view of the valley from here!
I didn't know that I could be incognito for real to my co-workers at Zermatt just by showing up with no make up, with wavy hair and headband, and in my athletic gear! Not sure if they were still impressed with my low maintenance look during my weekend retreat (I usually look like a diva on a good day at work at Zermatt!!), but this is how I look then! This is gutsy of me to post these photos but I wasn't that bad without make up.
This was at the driveway going the hotel and conference center building at Zermatt Resort!
This was at the top of Homestead Crater with Zermatt Resort at the background. Awesome view of the valley from here!
This was taken at our famous waterfalls hot tub in our indoor pool area. It's my first time in a two piece swim suit as well!! This is my "polished" look after my three-hour spa treatments at the Zermatt Spa. So shiny and exfoliated! (Flawless!)
To give you a good summary of our R&R experience (facial, massage, body scrub, swimming, hot tub, steam room, relaxation room, fitness center, everything is included in your spa treatment!) at our Best of State's Zermatt Resort's European Day Spa, I picked our video in Youtube for you to see how you can enjoy your own R&R at this beautiful place!
To give you a good summary of our R&R experience (facial, massage, body scrub, swimming, hot tub, steam room, relaxation room, fitness center, everything is included in your spa treatment!) at our Best of State's Zermatt Resort's European Day Spa, I picked our video in Youtube for you to see how you can enjoy your own R&R at this beautiful place!When I can't make it right... (in my bike!)
I remember when I knew I was pregnant with my twins, I mean, when we learned we were going to have puppies in the summer of 2007, my husband surprised me and gifted me this girlie bike (I call her "Mikey!," derived from Mikey Cojuangco, equestrian celebrity in the Philippines). When I ride my bike, I want to pretend that I'm a celebrity as well so I wear my cute hat and sunglasses to feel like I'm sort-of incognito...
But what's funny with me is that I can't make a right turn when I ride my bike! (Thank goodness it is not the case in my driving!!!) When I will go biking around my neighborhood, I have already planned my route of turning left all the way around the block and back to my house! A visiting friend took a video of me (on March 22nd) just warming up in front of our house before we go on our all-left-turn-bike-route which she finds hilarious! She never knew that before, now, you all know.
But what's funny with me is that I can't make a right turn when I ride my bike! (Thank goodness it is not the case in my driving!!!) When I will go biking around my neighborhood, I have already planned my route of turning left all the way around the block and back to my house! A visiting friend took a video of me (on March 22nd) just warming up in front of our house before we go on our all-left-turn-bike-route which she finds hilarious! She never knew that before, now, you all know.Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Relaxing at Zermatt Resort
The best way to relax my dad and brother is to let them play chess, whether it's in our outdoor life size chess area, or indoor in our upper lobby!
My mom just likes to relax by just looking at the beautiful view of Heber Valley. She tells me how lucky I am that I live in this country, especially in this peaceful valley, and that I work at an amazing place. This is their view from their Penthouse Suite's balcony of Hotel Der Baer.
This is Zermatt Resort's finest accommodations! Penthouse Signature Suite with two queens is ideal for family! I spoiled them for a few days here!
This is our Spa Lounge by our Wellness Center. If you have a spa appointment, this is where you will be meeting your therapist. This room is so cozy and relaxing!
This is our Wellness Center where our guests can work out during their stay. We also have a big Steam Room, another relaxation room, and individual wet/dry sauna in the male and female locker rooms!
This our Best of State Day Spa! This is my personal favorite place. Last weekend, I treated my self to a 3-hour half day package! I got an hour body scrub, an hour massage, and an hour facial! It was definitely a spa heaven on earth! I deserved it!
When you have multiple treatments, this is your in-between-treatments waiting area!! When you buy a treatment, you are also privileged to use our steam rooms, wellness center, relaxation rooms, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and hot tubs! That's why people can spend a whole day just relaxing here at Zermatt Resort while being pampered! Click here to check our Spa Menu!
The best hot tub ever with waterfalls! This is inside our indoor pool area. Our outdoor pool is connected to the indoor pool. There is also a separate hot tub outside! Every hotel guest at Zermatt Resort has a photograph at this waterfall!
This is at our Schneitter's Restaurant where we have our Best of State Sunday Brunch! We also have the best Seafood Buffet on Fridays, and the new Italian Buffet on Saturday nights. We also have a Pancake Buffet for breakfast on Saturdays! Yum!
This is at our Matty's Bistro, our comfort-food resto just right across the hotel lobby. My favorite items here are the Knife and Fork Caesar Salad with Salmon, Chicken Burger, and the Reuben!!! We have the best french fries, too!
Come and visit and taste Zermatt Resort now so you have your own story to tell! My top two highly recommended activities while at Zermatt: spend a day at our wellness center and spa, AND indulge in one or two or all of our buffets at Schneitter's Restaurant! For more info, visit our website at http://www.zermattresort.com/.
My mom just likes to relax by just looking at the beautiful view of Heber Valley. She tells me how lucky I am that I live in this country, especially in this peaceful valley, and that I work at an amazing place. This is their view from their Penthouse Suite's balcony of Hotel Der Baer.
This is Zermatt Resort's finest accommodations! Penthouse Signature Suite with two queens is ideal for family! I spoiled them for a few days here!
This is our Spa Lounge by our Wellness Center. If you have a spa appointment, this is where you will be meeting your therapist. This room is so cozy and relaxing!
This is our Wellness Center where our guests can work out during their stay. We also have a big Steam Room, another relaxation room, and individual wet/dry sauna in the male and female locker rooms!
This our Best of State Day Spa! This is my personal favorite place. Last weekend, I treated my self to a 3-hour half day package! I got an hour body scrub, an hour massage, and an hour facial! It was definitely a spa heaven on earth! I deserved it!
When you have multiple treatments, this is your in-between-treatments waiting area!! When you buy a treatment, you are also privileged to use our steam rooms, wellness center, relaxation rooms, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and hot tubs! That's why people can spend a whole day just relaxing here at Zermatt Resort while being pampered! Click here to check our Spa Menu!
The best hot tub ever with waterfalls! This is inside our indoor pool area. Our outdoor pool is connected to the indoor pool. There is also a separate hot tub outside! Every hotel guest at Zermatt Resort has a photograph at this waterfall!
This is at our Schneitter's Restaurant where we have our Best of State Sunday Brunch! We also have the best Seafood Buffet on Fridays, and the new Italian Buffet on Saturday nights. We also have a Pancake Buffet for breakfast on Saturdays! Yum!
This is at our Matty's Bistro, our comfort-food resto just right across the hotel lobby. My favorite items here are the Knife and Fork Caesar Salad with Salmon, Chicken Burger, and the Reuben!!! We have the best french fries, too!
Come and visit and taste Zermatt Resort now so you have your own story to tell! My top two highly recommended activities while at Zermatt: spend a day at our wellness center and spa, AND indulge in one or two or all of our buffets at Schneitter's Restaurant! For more info, visit our website at http://www.zermattresort.com/.PS: I don't really understand why I have my glasses on that day in this photo! I look like a dork! But I'm sure I enjoyed my lunch!
Family Activities at Zermatt Resort
Upon arrival to Zermatt Resort, our warm and friendly Bell staffs will greet you and make sure you are well taken cared of at the Front Desk. They will even take you (and your luggage) to your room and will tell you more about Zermatt's history, amenities and interesting activities!
You don't see these kinds of vintage cars everyday at Zermatt Resort, but this one sure looked good in our driveway!
When you are at Zermatt Resort, you have to take a photo of yourself at this signage! Manila, Philippines is about 10,000 miles away from Zermatt Resort, and that's where my family came all the way from to visit me here. My dad can tell you that it's worth the trip!
This is our 18-hole executive putting golf course, which I also call our glorified mini-golf! This is a great family bonding activity. It's not as easy as you think, but it is so fun and the views from here are just breath-taking!
After doing the putting golf, my family can not resist not to stop by our Best of State Bakery called the Backerei & Eis to have a homemade gelato!
We also have a life size chess (and shuffle board) area. My dad and brother love to play chess so they spent a lot of time in this corner.
This is the most memorable of all! Zermatt Resort is Swiss-themed, so we have a Carousel! I have never seen my mom and dad so child-like until they were riding on it. They said it was their very first time ever to ride a carousel in their lives.... Sure, we don't have this in the Philippines!
This is me! I don't really get to ride this a lot... But hey, this carousel is so much fun!! I love riding the wild boar!
You don't see these kinds of vintage cars everyday at Zermatt Resort, but this one sure looked good in our driveway!
When you are at Zermatt Resort, you have to take a photo of yourself at this signage! Manila, Philippines is about 10,000 miles away from Zermatt Resort, and that's where my family came all the way from to visit me here. My dad can tell you that it's worth the trip!
This is our 18-hole executive putting golf course, which I also call our glorified mini-golf! This is a great family bonding activity. It's not as easy as you think, but it is so fun and the views from here are just breath-taking!
After doing the putting golf, my family can not resist not to stop by our Best of State Bakery called the Backerei & Eis to have a homemade gelato! 
We also have a life size chess (and shuffle board) area. My dad and brother love to play chess so they spent a lot of time in this corner.
This is the most memorable of all! Zermatt Resort is Swiss-themed, so we have a Carousel! I have never seen my mom and dad so child-like until they were riding on it. They said it was their very first time ever to ride a carousel in their lives.... Sure, we don't have this in the Philippines!
This is me! I don't really get to ride this a lot... But hey, this carousel is so much fun!! I love riding the wild boar!
Zermatt Resort in Midway, Utah
I found out that people blog about Zermatt Resort for the longest time. They post photos of their activities during their stay and write about their memorable experiences to share with their readers, family and friends. Today, I browsed in our TripAdvisor and I am convinced that I should blog about this beautiful place because this is where I work everyday and I love everything about Zermatt Resort, from its wonderful location at one of America's most pristine valleys (Heber Valley) to the best hotel employees I have ever worked with in the past 14 years.
So, I am revealing half of my identity here (my professional life, yikes!) and I can't believe my gut that I waited for more than a year to do this. I wanted the world to know about my thoughts, so why not share my "other beautiful world" at the Zermatt Resort in Midway, Utah.
I posted here some photos of my family when they visited the Zermatt Resort back in the summer in 2008. I thought of posting my personal photos here rather than copying what's already in our website. And why not use real people and guests such as my Mom, Dad, my husband and brother as models?
Driveway to the hotel building! You'll see flagpoles with European flags!
Hotel lobby! You will see a lot of authentic Swiss-Bavarian sculptures and paintings! All these decors are imported from Europe!
We have a professional shot just like this in our website. Here's my own shot with my family in it!
I thought I would post several blogs about Zermatt tonight, so you'll see more above this with more posts and photos of my family bonding at Zermatt Resort!! How fun! (Now, I'm missing my family, and wishing it is summer soon! It's still snowing up here...)
So, I am revealing half of my identity here (my professional life, yikes!) and I can't believe my gut that I waited for more than a year to do this. I wanted the world to know about my thoughts, so why not share my "other beautiful world" at the Zermatt Resort in Midway, Utah.
I posted here some photos of my family when they visited the Zermatt Resort back in the summer in 2008. I thought of posting my personal photos here rather than copying what's already in our website. And why not use real people and guests such as my Mom, Dad, my husband and brother as models?
This is the front of the Hotel Der Baer. A friendly, accordion-playing bronze bear statue will welcome you!
I always mention our big blue skies here in Utah, and here's a proof! This is not in Switzerland, but it definitely looks like and feel like you are in Switzerland!
Driveway to the hotel building! You'll see flagpoles with European flags!
Hotel lobby! You will see a lot of authentic Swiss-Bavarian sculptures and paintings! All these decors are imported from Europe!
We have a professional shot just like this in our website. Here's my own shot with my family in it!
I thought I would post several blogs about Zermatt tonight, so you'll see more above this with more posts and photos of my family bonding at Zermatt Resort!! How fun! (Now, I'm missing my family, and wishing it is summer soon! It's still snowing up here...)
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