Upon reading the article in TIME.COM about parenting turning into product development, my younger brother, 13 years my junior, came into mind. I couldn't help but agree that the article is so true.
I observe that parents nowadays are overly meticulous of all aspects that would make their child/children safe, injure-proof, dirt proof and healthy that sometimes it's becoming annoying. From making sure that they have the best education to preparing their crisp uniforms and mean breakfast, parents have so many things to be paranoid about and therefore so many things to consider. That's why most of the kids these days are dependent and more boxed up.
Take for example my brother JD. In my time in late 80's and early 90's, I was considered a street kid. Both my parents still worked at that time so I was majorly left alone to figure out what I wanted to do. During summer breaks you won't find me inside the house. I'd bike around the village, go from one house to another watching laser discs, invite people for sleepovers and literally play in the streets till dinner time. I would get dirty, play with traditional games that are not battery operated like pico and I have exposed myself in constantly making decisions on certain situations that hopefully made me more independent. There were no cellular phones and no nannies following me around.
I thought it was a normal thing for a kid, but now I don't see kids playing in the streets anymore. I don't even know my neighbors. Interactions are confined with relatives and friends at school. Kids are more exposed to television, computers and gadgets. They have phones where their parents could contact and monitor them. They don't easily become independent as these kids without raw training, can't make decisions.
Aside from over parenting, parents nowadays push their children to excel more because of new studies and intellectual breakthroughs about children's mental capacity. In this fast paced and cutthroat world, parents want to make sure that their kid is one of the best among the rest. Parents want their kids to get more opportunities and outpace others. It's about in-depth competition and pride. Even my brother's academic curriculum is way advanced than in my time. My brother and younger cousins are already studying algebra in elementary years. Pre-schoolers study different countries and their capitals cities. In my time, algebra was taught during high school and basic geography was taught in elementary. No wonder kids these days are very competitive and would drag large "travel" school bags as I coined them.
Although advanced and most definitely protected, in a way I pity my brother for not going through the childhood that I had. He never experienced playing in the streets. He lacks the ability to make decisions fast. He lacks cooking up strategies. He's very boxed up and very much by-the-book. He's submerged with online games and gadgets. He never gets physical and dirty except when it's their school intrams. As I've observed he is also very dependent with his stage mother. He expects my mother to fix certain things for him, make sure he gets this, gets that. I always get mad when my mother would do extra efforts to shade her son from things he should experience. I also get mad when she sticks with grades and academic standings so much. My brother has become her trophy. Looking at my brother now, he lacks initiative. Probably because he too is burned out with the pressure or maybe he's just too boxed up to know what he really wants or to know who he really is.
Good parenting is very important. Over parenting is dangerous. Good luck when your kids step out in the real world.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Educate people about PAGASA
In one of my posts written at the height of Ondoy, I've mentioned how I feel for PAGASA, our country's weather forecasting agency. PAGASA is one of the most popular agencies in our lifetime. As a kid, I would want to befriend PAG-ASA, the bringer of no-classes news. Of course I was selfish then, it's different now as an adult, when I've become more mature and understand how storms could devastate our lands. Now I thank that we have PAGASA to warn us, but apparently they're receiving bad publicity, which continue to tarnish their reputation. They're the most convenient agency to blame when shit happens and they're practically defenseless.
The agency's reputation depends in informing public about weather calamities in forms of heavy rainfall, floods, devastation and sea faring incidents. But for the most recent weather calamities, people begin to easily blame the agency when the news and warnings are delayed when in fact it's not. We belittle the agency's efforts to warn us hours before branding them exaggerated. Then we also get mad when PAGASA forecasts a heavy storm when in fact nothing arrives.
I don't know the nitty gritty aspects the agency works on, but I am quite confident that, just like with the rest of our agencies here, PAGASA lacks good equipment. Therefore they cannot efficiently predict all aspects of the weather like the amount of rainfall that could've been useful when Ondoy struck us. If ever they have available apparatus, I'm pretty sure it's not that technologically advanced. That goes the same with their other facilities, communication device and exposure to public because of certain budget constraints and lack of prioritization.
And the cue word that most people forget is they FORECAST. PREDICT. They make calculated and scientific predictions based on analysis of salient information brought by their equipment and scientific knowledge. They cannot exactly know the MIND of the storm. No matter how scientific, even calculaed predictions can be turned 360 degrees because naturally, just like how god made them, STORMS are very unpredictable. Storms could appear suddenly giving minimal time to prepare or it could be hovering like a giant cloud of destruction for days and just disappear.
Whenever PAGASA sends out information, I'm confident that they know better. Experience and specific knowledge are what put them in service. It's the majority of people who do not give them due credit and who do not try to factor in PAGASA's limitations. That's why I feel sad when people lambast them in social networking sites and make fun an agency, a rightful and scientific agency. Even actual form of science makes mistakes sometimes, what more if they're dealing with calculated prediction of the unpredictable? I also hate it when people belittle the warnings just because the agency, as they say, has lost its credibility. Credibility is such a harsh term given PAGASA's circumstances. Why can't people just be thankful that they were given a chance to prepare; and just hope the forecast would remain just a forecast?
I am still confident with PAGASA. It's unfair that they are receiving overly bad publicity because people do not understand what they're going through and what they're about. What other agencies can we rightfully depend on? Let them do their jobs, and I am sure in their hearts, they're doing it well. Let's just understand their shortcomings and current situation. Let's be educated and not be judgmental. Because no matter how you see them, we still need this agency.
The agency's reputation depends in informing public about weather calamities in forms of heavy rainfall, floods, devastation and sea faring incidents. But for the most recent weather calamities, people begin to easily blame the agency when the news and warnings are delayed when in fact it's not. We belittle the agency's efforts to warn us hours before branding them exaggerated. Then we also get mad when PAGASA forecasts a heavy storm when in fact nothing arrives.
I don't know the nitty gritty aspects the agency works on, but I am quite confident that, just like with the rest of our agencies here, PAGASA lacks good equipment. Therefore they cannot efficiently predict all aspects of the weather like the amount of rainfall that could've been useful when Ondoy struck us. If ever they have available apparatus, I'm pretty sure it's not that technologically advanced. That goes the same with their other facilities, communication device and exposure to public because of certain budget constraints and lack of prioritization.
And the cue word that most people forget is they FORECAST. PREDICT. They make calculated and scientific predictions based on analysis of salient information brought by their equipment and scientific knowledge. They cannot exactly know the MIND of the storm. No matter how scientific, even calculaed predictions can be turned 360 degrees because naturally, just like how god made them, STORMS are very unpredictable. Storms could appear suddenly giving minimal time to prepare or it could be hovering like a giant cloud of destruction for days and just disappear.
Whenever PAGASA sends out information, I'm confident that they know better. Experience and specific knowledge are what put them in service. It's the majority of people who do not give them due credit and who do not try to factor in PAGASA's limitations. That's why I feel sad when people lambast them in social networking sites and make fun an agency, a rightful and scientific agency. Even actual form of science makes mistakes sometimes, what more if they're dealing with calculated prediction of the unpredictable? I also hate it when people belittle the warnings just because the agency, as they say, has lost its credibility. Credibility is such a harsh term given PAGASA's circumstances. Why can't people just be thankful that they were given a chance to prepare; and just hope the forecast would remain just a forecast?
I am still confident with PAGASA. It's unfair that they are receiving overly bad publicity because people do not understand what they're going through and what they're about. What other agencies can we rightfully depend on? Let them do their jobs, and I am sure in their hearts, they're doing it well. Let's just understand their shortcomings and current situation. Let's be educated and not be judgmental. Because no matter how you see them, we still need this agency.
Road Rage kills
I had dinner with Mitch and my sister last night at Sentro, Fort Taguig. We had fun and tasted heaven, but with our full stomachs, we landed right back to earth and decided to just go home (and sleep) ironically afer having our coffee stop. While trying to leave the amazingly far and muddy parking space, we were faced with unique heavy traffic in Fort. It's expeced. The grand pyrotechnics show just ended and the crowd was apparently eager to leave Fort as well. In this heavy traffic situation, we expected that we would encounter stupid and reckless drivers all gearing up for space. We did encounter a couple and Mitch was again on his usual road rage.
While stuck, my sister shared her dismay on the recent road rage incident that killed her friend's brother, Renato Victor Ebarle Jr., who is the son of a presidential staff member. It's an incident that depresses. Heavy traffic and road incidents are not sane reasons to hurt or kill anyone. People, who are consumed by their road rage, are mentally and emotionally deranged. It's one of those unfortunate losses; and compassion for the suspect is quite hard to achieve.
My sister is pissed because the suspect, Jason Ivler, is a stepson of an ADB executive, a high ranking global organization. Not necessaril with diplomatic immunity, but she realizes that in our present system, corrective justice won't be achieved by the victim's family knowing that the suspect has connections. The situation would just eventually cool down. The consolation is that the suspect would only be exiled; and the particular incident would just be added up to statistics, shoved and shelved. It's actually happening right now as I type. Presently, Jason Ivler, the alleged susptect, cannot be found in his city homes. He's in hiding. The stepfather is the one appearing in media, probably doing some "backroom" operations. Even the police can smell something fishy.
Now I remember the news that I saw about the incident. Same sentiment of despair was ignited. I even saw past footages of Jason Ivler, smiling, joking around while being interviewed about his 2004 road incident. This pathetic man has history and he was still set free. He looked like drugged, smiling and lifting up his shirt for national TV to see his brief's garter. I hope Karma bites him hard.
Currently, police is now looking for him. His family's not helping the situation because some say they are hidding him. Police force says they're verifying his whereabouts. I really hope they find him and let our justice system make him pay.
So for those easily roused by road incidents, please be mindful of your actions. Don't let road rage consume you. Scream, sure, but let it go. Just go play in traffic.
While stuck, my sister shared her dismay on the recent road rage incident that killed her friend's brother, Renato Victor Ebarle Jr., who is the son of a presidential staff member. It's an incident that depresses. Heavy traffic and road incidents are not sane reasons to hurt or kill anyone. People, who are consumed by their road rage, are mentally and emotionally deranged. It's one of those unfortunate losses; and compassion for the suspect is quite hard to achieve.
My sister is pissed because the suspect, Jason Ivler, is a stepson of an ADB executive, a high ranking global organization. Not necessaril with diplomatic immunity, but she realizes that in our present system, corrective justice won't be achieved by the victim's family knowing that the suspect has connections. The situation would just eventually cool down. The consolation is that the suspect would only be exiled; and the particular incident would just be added up to statistics, shoved and shelved. It's actually happening right now as I type. Presently, Jason Ivler, the alleged susptect, cannot be found in his city homes. He's in hiding. The stepfather is the one appearing in media, probably doing some "backroom" operations. Even the police can smell something fishy.
Now I remember the news that I saw about the incident. Same sentiment of despair was ignited. I even saw past footages of Jason Ivler, smiling, joking around while being interviewed about his 2004 road incident. This pathetic man has history and he was still set free. He looked like drugged, smiling and lifting up his shirt for national TV to see his brief's garter. I hope Karma bites him hard.
Currently, police is now looking for him. His family's not helping the situation because some say they are hidding him. Police force says they're verifying his whereabouts. I really hope they find him and let our justice system make him pay.
So for those easily roused by road incidents, please be mindful of your actions. Don't let road rage consume you. Scream, sure, but let it go. Just go play in traffic.
The suspected killer of a Malacañang official’s son during a road-rage incident in Quezon City last Wednesday remained elusive as government agents failed to catch him in raids during the weekend. (Gmanews)
New Moon: Rise of Team Jacob
I've read the Twilight series. I was entertained and impressed, but I did not exactly become a die-hard fan same with Harry Potter's. Fine, I do watch the movies, but I'm not the one who's to worry and salivate. Probably these fantasy flicks appeal to me only at a certain level, but sometimes it's too funny and trivial when they happen in angst ridden adolescent stages. It's a certain muck that I want to skip. It's complicated to the nth degree and the fantasy aspect just makes it more 3 dimensionally messy. I guess that's the more profitable angle, the spice that makes it more interesting.
Nevertheless, the Twilight series were entertaining and fairly easy to follow. Though I do understand the sources of swoon and delight. It's generally about two extremely good looking teenage guys, who are natural rivals, fall for a human that could've technically been their dinner. The guys are actually magical creatures that history depicts to have been legendary rivals. A Vampire and a Lycan, just like classic rivals of La Salle and Ateneo.
The first book of Twilight was a rough introduction about the characters that would take you along the three other sequels. It was packed with visual candy and expectations. The movie delivered, although the effects were minimal and I kind of fidgeted because it's definitely a high-school type of movie, without queen bees and petty anxiety attacks. It makes one long for New Moon.
Frankly, not me. I'm not a fan of New Moon, which is also the same that I won't kill myself if I don't watch the movie. Reading it was depressing and sappy. Every chapter is like having to read and go over Bella's depression of missing Edward. Her whole world revolves around Edward whom she met just a year ago. I cannot just relate cause I find it mushy and exaggerated, teenageers. Also, the absence of a loved one is an opportunity of the other. In this book, there is more focus on Jacob and strengthening his opposite traits as opposed to Edward's cold, chiseled and pale looks. Jacob, from the book, is more human, ripped and "cozy." He is the ultimate fall back guy, the guy who makes the girl laugh and pulls her out from depression. The guy who wishes he could be more. Great. Here's something we have not seen before, a love triangle of a vampire and a werewolf. I think in this sequel, I wanted Bella to just disappear in Forks and be a banshee or something. Another interesting part in this book aside from Jacob's apparent transformation is the introduction of the complex Volturi clan. At least they took the spotlight away from the depressing teenage love triangle somehow.
But now that New Moon's out, everyone's been talking about it. My Facebook's been littered with reviews which are generally just about how much they love Jacob and his abs. Almost everyone is for Jacob now, like Team Jinkee against Team Krista. Now Edward who? New Moon what? I feel this movie is about Jacob. If that is the case, the title should be New Moon: The Rise of Team Jacob.
I admit I'm intrigued. Not by the story of course, but with Jacob's overly positive transformation. I heard there are more action scenes now. And I'm looking forward to meet the Volturi clan. Ironically Michael Sheen, who played a royal Lycan in the movie Underworld is now a royal Vampire in New Moon. That would definitely boost up his resume I think.
So with all I've written here, I might be watching New Moon after all, although not in a hurry and definitely not with Mitch. I would understand his male-ego agony. I think I would watch the movie next week when the hype's died down. Then I would get to form my own opinions on Jacob's abs and not just depend on a hundred hearsays. Probably I'll get to decided which team I want to join. Originally I'm for the pale, calculated and more mythical one. But since I have more affinity to dogs and less aristocracy, I might go for Jacob. But whatever I decide on, I'll just be a dot in a million.
Also, people just like to create rivalry and wear it on their sleeves literally. I'm sure Team shirts will be produced here soon. I can feel it.
Well hello there, Jacob.
Nevertheless, the Twilight series were entertaining and fairly easy to follow. Though I do understand the sources of swoon and delight. It's generally about two extremely good looking teenage guys, who are natural rivals, fall for a human that could've technically been their dinner. The guys are actually magical creatures that history depicts to have been legendary rivals. A Vampire and a Lycan, just like classic rivals of La Salle and Ateneo.
The first book of Twilight was a rough introduction about the characters that would take you along the three other sequels. It was packed with visual candy and expectations. The movie delivered, although the effects were minimal and I kind of fidgeted because it's definitely a high-school type of movie, without queen bees and petty anxiety attacks. It makes one long for New Moon.
Frankly, not me. I'm not a fan of New Moon, which is also the same that I won't kill myself if I don't watch the movie. Reading it was depressing and sappy. Every chapter is like having to read and go over Bella's depression of missing Edward. Her whole world revolves around Edward whom she met just a year ago. I cannot just relate cause I find it mushy and exaggerated, teenageers. Also, the absence of a loved one is an opportunity of the other. In this book, there is more focus on Jacob and strengthening his opposite traits as opposed to Edward's cold, chiseled and pale looks. Jacob, from the book, is more human, ripped and "cozy." He is the ultimate fall back guy, the guy who makes the girl laugh and pulls her out from depression. The guy who wishes he could be more. Great. Here's something we have not seen before, a love triangle of a vampire and a werewolf. I think in this sequel, I wanted Bella to just disappear in Forks and be a banshee or something. Another interesting part in this book aside from Jacob's apparent transformation is the introduction of the complex Volturi clan. At least they took the spotlight away from the depressing teenage love triangle somehow.
But now that New Moon's out, everyone's been talking about it. My Facebook's been littered with reviews which are generally just about how much they love Jacob and his abs. Almost everyone is for Jacob now, like Team Jinkee against Team Krista. Now Edward who? New Moon what? I feel this movie is about Jacob. If that is the case, the title should be New Moon: The Rise of Team Jacob.
I admit I'm intrigued. Not by the story of course, but with Jacob's overly positive transformation. I heard there are more action scenes now. And I'm looking forward to meet the Volturi clan. Ironically Michael Sheen, who played a royal Lycan in the movie Underworld is now a royal Vampire in New Moon. That would definitely boost up his resume I think.
So with all I've written here, I might be watching New Moon after all, although not in a hurry and definitely not with Mitch. I would understand his male-ego agony. I think I would watch the movie next week when the hype's died down. Then I would get to form my own opinions on Jacob's abs and not just depend on a hundred hearsays. Probably I'll get to decided which team I want to join. Originally I'm for the pale, calculated and more mythical one. But since I have more affinity to dogs and less aristocracy, I might go for Jacob. But whatever I decide on, I'll just be a dot in a million.
Also, people just like to create rivalry and wear it on their sleeves literally. I'm sure Team shirts will be produced here soon. I can feel it.
Well hello there, Jacob.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Friday at Divisoria
I conquered Divisoria, although I thought I wouldn't.
Going to Divisoria was already planned weeks before. My mom agreed that she would go with me and we would wake up at 6 am, be dropped at the nearby fx station in Edsa or Buendia, then take a ride from there to Divi. Sounds ambitious, but I was very enthusiastic and courageous in commuting because I have been there last August with my aunt when we were buying stuff for Harvey's birthday party. So first step is to plan my personal leave, allot my budget and take a rest the night before, but my mom started to back out. She said she wasn't in the mood anymore. My sister wanted to go, but when she found out that I intended to leave early, she backed out as well.
Going solo flight is already an option. Much to my uncle's discouragement while we chatted in Facebook, I still researched my route and just made sure that my trip was more organized. Roaming around with an agenda, even in a relatively foreign place, is not a problem for me. I could be left alone in another country and find different ways to enjoy the place. And ironically, I love Divisoria because of the stalls and crowded streets full of cheap wares and goodies. I love the "barter" feel of it all. Malls bore me. It's shopping and adventure rolled into one like traveling.
Shopping for clothes is not my goal. First, I wanted to shop for cool christmas decorations since my mom has lost her christmas spirit. I wanted to at least please my dad because he would always nag us girls to finally make the house more festive and colorful. Since my mom doesn't want to spend for expensive set of christmas decorations, I figured Divisoria is our best option to get the same good stuff of what we see in department stores, but half the price. I've already done my canvassing. In Robinson's and SM Department stores, an intricate flower with stem that you put in garlands and christmas trees easily costs 69 pesos each or along that range. If I buy a dozen, it would cost me roughly 800. Christmas ball sets of 4 can easily cost me 150 - 200 plus. In my present financial condition, it's definitely too steep knowing our christmas tree's huge and there are other areas to decorate. Divisoria, from my research and from what I heard, offer the same decors for half the price. Also, a second agenda is to buy christmas gifts for my two god children at Anding's Toy Store, a toy warehouse wonderland where I also bought Harvey's birthday stuff. Lastly, I might buy things for the house whatever I might see interesting like candle holders, duyan and other stuff you think I might not need.
Dressed in old jogging pants and loose white shirt, my father saw me and instantly knew about my plans. He was informed by my mother and held no objections. He even insisted that my mother should go with me; and in return, he would let us use the larger car and his driver's services instead of commuting as originally planned. Well that would be convenient for us in a way that we won't suffer the hot commute and just let the driver worry about the parking space. By 8 am, after having a heavy breakfast, we left for Divisoria.
Good thing our driver knew the detour routes and we traveled through Osmena Highway to Singalong area towards Roxas Blvd and the next thing we knew, we were already in Binondo, one of my dad's favorite shopping spots. The driver knew where we were heading and he dropped us off at the busy Juan Luna St where as early as 9:30 am was already crowded with vendors, buyers and delivery men.
While walking that long street I felt I was in a huge candy store. 10 pesos worth of different toys, succulent fruits, fake but gorgeous wallets and bags, christmas decors, all adorned the streets and we haven't even reached Tabora and the divisoria malls. I kept on pointing like crazy whereas my mom just concentrated on keeping up with me.
My mom and I transferred from one stall to another that's selling Christmas Decors in Tabora street. It was already hot at that time and my mother wasn't in high spirits. She kept on hurrying with a frown on her face. The more we searched, the more stressed she looked. She immediately wanted to go inside a mall where it's airconditioned. She said she couldn't take street shopping. I was pissed of course because we didn't maximize our time looking for decors, but at least we were able to grab salient stuff thanks to me.
By 10:45 am my mom's had it with Christmas decor shopping in the busy and hot Tabora street so we decided to go to the nearby building where Anding's Toy Store, which is more like a wonderland warehouse of toys, is located. I bought durable, wooden educational toys for my two godchildren. Each cost 240 pesos. Of that size, quality and purpose, those could easily cost near 1K in Hobbes and Landes. For myself, I bought a large jumping rope for 18 bucks, a complete scrabble set for 140. I also wanted to buy a set of cool masks and machine/shotguns 3 for 100, but my mom was insanely KJ.
By 11:45 we walked a couple of minutes to get to 168 mall, a more organized mall than the original DV mall near Tabora street. We went window shopping. There were lots and I mean lots of updated (fake but insanel good material) bags and shoes there. They have "imported brands" of travel bags, hand bags, totes selling for 200-400 pesos. Hip shoes there sell for 200. If my sister was with me, she could've hyperventilated with excitement on the spot. Clothes from basics to formal are scattered together with gardening tools, kitchen supplies, electric supplies and even pet supplies.
Before going through stalls, we ate first at the busy food stall. I ate at Kai Hong Eatery, much to Mitch's amusement. After grabbing a bite we went window shopping and my mom started to light up by seeing good material shirt dresses that cost 300 bucks. Party clothes for 300 and a luxurious, Charlotte-York inspired, black and white A-line dress for only 400. It was impossible to get that good cut and material for 400. Well, in the first place, it doesn't look like 400. It looks like a thousand bucks. Upon seeing that, my mom insisted I should buy it because she kept on raving about the material and the cut. And so I did. A few stores away, we saw artsy-fartsy shirts on sale and the material is divine. The cloth is thin, cool and soft. Think the likes of DAVID and GOLIATH shirts. For 400 pesos, we got 4 cute shirts for JD and Mitch. And knowing my mom, being so meticulous in buying shirts, was so pleased with our progress. But that's when I realized I'm spending too much already. I've spent cash that's alloted for my phone and credit card bills. It's sad that I went pass budget, but thinking about the dress, the christmas decors, the toys, they are all worth it.
After conquering 168 my mom bought cheap fruits (3 kilos of kiat kiat for 100, 4 guavas for 100) along the road. We also bought 25 pcs good quality, glossy gift wrappers for 75 pesos, 100 gift cards for 10 pesos, and my magnificent find...the ELECTRONIC BUBBLE GUN.
My mom was weirded out about my purchase. We were walking along the street when I just saw this guy demonstrating the electronic bubble gun. The gun's so colorful that I doubt anyone would miss it; and the bubbles it released was insane. I immediately fell in love with it. I was about to buy the bubble gun worth 100 pesos when my mom insisted that I should get the one with sound effects for 12o. And again, so I did. I was walking along the streets of Tabora and Juan Luna "gunning" bubbles on my path. Three people, 2 moms and a guy asked me where I found it. They were so amazed and curious. I even let one guy get the feel of it. Most of them said that they saw bubble guns in malls that are expensive. Proud as I am, I helped them with the directions on how to get to the only vendor who's selling it. I didn't share the fact that I had fun letting people in my path eat soap of course. Ha-ha.
By 2 pm we were on our way home and no matter how I wanted to buy those 10 pesos worth of toys, I have to control. I knew I shouldn't spend anymore. I'm already dried as it is, but then I saw these sophisticated, golden candle holders perfect for intimate parties at Juan Luna Street. You would not find this in malls and even if you do find it, it'll cost 300 pesos the cheapest. The geniune looking guy was selling different designs, freshly made, for 100 pesos each; No brainer. I grabbed three. There goes my last 500 bucks. At least I still have 200 pesos for emergency.
Divisoria is love. My mom would disagree of course. She's more of a Greenhills shopper where it's airconditioned, more organized and safer in terms of security and product control. That may be true, Divisoria may not have the best circumstances when it comes to shopping. It's dirty, smelly, hot, overly crowded and disorganized, but if you're a person who really likes die-hard cheap finds (cheaper than ghills), see this kind of shopping as a fulfilling adventure and not to complain of the heat and the crowd, then you will love divisoria.
For some who know my basic interests like my mom, you'd be surprised by my revelation. You might ask that for a person who hates shopping, why would I even consider Divisoria? I still don't shop for clothes, shoes and stuff. I primarly look for vintage things like toys, decorations or something for the house. I also probably like the adventure of it. I like shopping in streets. The feeling is so vintage and exciting. I like shopping like it was during in medieval times when everything was on the street, there were no added costs to the goods. I like shopping in the raw. Whereas for malls, I'm not really a fan because I get bored. It's too organized and pretentious. For me, nothing beats shopping at warehouses and streets especially if it's dirt cheap. Most of the times, the mood also helps.
For those who are looking for durable toys to buy for their godchildren or children, go to Anding's Toy Store. It's near Tabora street (orange building). You will find all the toys for all ages there. For those planning to have themed birthday parties, this is the place to go for giveways, party favors and toys. From board games to educational games for all ages, kiddie cars, remote cars, dolls, military toys, cards, wholesale mini-toys, sports, masks, balloons, costumes, everything that a kid and a kid-at-heart would want, it's in Anding's. The quality, packaging and selection are something that would awe you.
For those looking for Christmas Decors go to the Tabora Stretch. Intricately designed decors, christmas boxes and lights are there. Flowers with stems found in SM that easily costs 40 bucks each is 180 bucks a dozen, all in different colors, in Tabora. Wreath and garlands cost 120-250 each. 2 dozens of huge, glittered christmas balls sell for 150-250. Ribbons and beads for yards sell at 150. Christmas figs cost 25 pesos each as opposed to 70 pesos each found in leading malls. In some more established stalls you could ask them to decorate stuff for you.
The usual wares of Divisoria like gardening tools, house ornaments, kitchen wares are also found in Tabora. Fruits and vegetables are all over the place. For cheap shoes, bags and clothes there's Divisoria Mall in Tabora and there's a more organized 168 mall.
Go there this early while you still can. Friday, but considerably a week day, is already crowded in Divisoria. It's best if you bring someone along with you who doesn't mind the physical situation of the place. It helps to roam around. You just have to keep an eye on good quality finds and don't go to Divisoria without a goal or without a list of priority purchases. It's an experience you will never forget, and it depends, you'll love.
Going to Divisoria was already planned weeks before. My mom agreed that she would go with me and we would wake up at 6 am, be dropped at the nearby fx station in Edsa or Buendia, then take a ride from there to Divi. Sounds ambitious, but I was very enthusiastic and courageous in commuting because I have been there last August with my aunt when we were buying stuff for Harvey's birthday party. So first step is to plan my personal leave, allot my budget and take a rest the night before, but my mom started to back out. She said she wasn't in the mood anymore. My sister wanted to go, but when she found out that I intended to leave early, she backed out as well.
Going solo flight is already an option. Much to my uncle's discouragement while we chatted in Facebook, I still researched my route and just made sure that my trip was more organized. Roaming around with an agenda, even in a relatively foreign place, is not a problem for me. I could be left alone in another country and find different ways to enjoy the place. And ironically, I love Divisoria because of the stalls and crowded streets full of cheap wares and goodies. I love the "barter" feel of it all. Malls bore me. It's shopping and adventure rolled into one like traveling.
Shopping for clothes is not my goal. First, I wanted to shop for cool christmas decorations since my mom has lost her christmas spirit. I wanted to at least please my dad because he would always nag us girls to finally make the house more festive and colorful. Since my mom doesn't want to spend for expensive set of christmas decorations, I figured Divisoria is our best option to get the same good stuff of what we see in department stores, but half the price. I've already done my canvassing. In Robinson's and SM Department stores, an intricate flower with stem that you put in garlands and christmas trees easily costs 69 pesos each or along that range. If I buy a dozen, it would cost me roughly 800. Christmas ball sets of 4 can easily cost me 150 - 200 plus. In my present financial condition, it's definitely too steep knowing our christmas tree's huge and there are other areas to decorate. Divisoria, from my research and from what I heard, offer the same decors for half the price. Also, a second agenda is to buy christmas gifts for my two god children at Anding's Toy Store, a toy warehouse wonderland where I also bought Harvey's birthday stuff. Lastly, I might buy things for the house whatever I might see interesting like candle holders, duyan and other stuff you think I might not need.
Dressed in old jogging pants and loose white shirt, my father saw me and instantly knew about my plans. He was informed by my mother and held no objections. He even insisted that my mother should go with me; and in return, he would let us use the larger car and his driver's services instead of commuting as originally planned. Well that would be convenient for us in a way that we won't suffer the hot commute and just let the driver worry about the parking space. By 8 am, after having a heavy breakfast, we left for Divisoria.
Good thing our driver knew the detour routes and we traveled through Osmena Highway to Singalong area towards Roxas Blvd and the next thing we knew, we were already in Binondo, one of my dad's favorite shopping spots. The driver knew where we were heading and he dropped us off at the busy Juan Luna St where as early as 9:30 am was already crowded with vendors, buyers and delivery men.
While walking that long street I felt I was in a huge candy store. 10 pesos worth of different toys, succulent fruits, fake but gorgeous wallets and bags, christmas decors, all adorned the streets and we haven't even reached Tabora and the divisoria malls. I kept on pointing like crazy whereas my mom just concentrated on keeping up with me.
My mom and I transferred from one stall to another that's selling Christmas Decors in Tabora street. It was already hot at that time and my mother wasn't in high spirits. She kept on hurrying with a frown on her face. The more we searched, the more stressed she looked. She immediately wanted to go inside a mall where it's airconditioned. She said she couldn't take street shopping. I was pissed of course because we didn't maximize our time looking for decors, but at least we were able to grab salient stuff thanks to me.
By 10:45 am my mom's had it with Christmas decor shopping in the busy and hot Tabora street so we decided to go to the nearby building where Anding's Toy Store, which is more like a wonderland warehouse of toys, is located. I bought durable, wooden educational toys for my two godchildren. Each cost 240 pesos. Of that size, quality and purpose, those could easily cost near 1K in Hobbes and Landes. For myself, I bought a large jumping rope for 18 bucks, a complete scrabble set for 140. I also wanted to buy a set of cool masks and machine/shotguns 3 for 100, but my mom was insanely KJ.
By 11:45 we walked a couple of minutes to get to 168 mall, a more organized mall than the original DV mall near Tabora street. We went window shopping. There were lots and I mean lots of updated (fake but insanel good material) bags and shoes there. They have "imported brands" of travel bags, hand bags, totes selling for 200-400 pesos. Hip shoes there sell for 200. If my sister was with me, she could've hyperventilated with excitement on the spot. Clothes from basics to formal are scattered together with gardening tools, kitchen supplies, electric supplies and even pet supplies.
Before going through stalls, we ate first at the busy food stall. I ate at Kai Hong Eatery, much to Mitch's amusement. After grabbing a bite we went window shopping and my mom started to light up by seeing good material shirt dresses that cost 300 bucks. Party clothes for 300 and a luxurious, Charlotte-York inspired, black and white A-line dress for only 400. It was impossible to get that good cut and material for 400. Well, in the first place, it doesn't look like 400. It looks like a thousand bucks. Upon seeing that, my mom insisted I should buy it because she kept on raving about the material and the cut. And so I did. A few stores away, we saw artsy-fartsy shirts on sale and the material is divine. The cloth is thin, cool and soft. Think the likes of DAVID and GOLIATH shirts. For 400 pesos, we got 4 cute shirts for JD and Mitch. And knowing my mom, being so meticulous in buying shirts, was so pleased with our progress. But that's when I realized I'm spending too much already. I've spent cash that's alloted for my phone and credit card bills. It's sad that I went pass budget, but thinking about the dress, the christmas decors, the toys, they are all worth it.
After conquering 168 my mom bought cheap fruits (3 kilos of kiat kiat for 100, 4 guavas for 100) along the road. We also bought 25 pcs good quality, glossy gift wrappers for 75 pesos, 100 gift cards for 10 pesos, and my magnificent find...the ELECTRONIC BUBBLE GUN.
My mom was weirded out about my purchase. We were walking along the street when I just saw this guy demonstrating the electronic bubble gun. The gun's so colorful that I doubt anyone would miss it; and the bubbles it released was insane. I immediately fell in love with it. I was about to buy the bubble gun worth 100 pesos when my mom insisted that I should get the one with sound effects for 12o. And again, so I did. I was walking along the streets of Tabora and Juan Luna "gunning" bubbles on my path. Three people, 2 moms and a guy asked me where I found it. They were so amazed and curious. I even let one guy get the feel of it. Most of them said that they saw bubble guns in malls that are expensive. Proud as I am, I helped them with the directions on how to get to the only vendor who's selling it. I didn't share the fact that I had fun letting people in my path eat soap of course. Ha-ha.
By 2 pm we were on our way home and no matter how I wanted to buy those 10 pesos worth of toys, I have to control. I knew I shouldn't spend anymore. I'm already dried as it is, but then I saw these sophisticated, golden candle holders perfect for intimate parties at Juan Luna Street. You would not find this in malls and even if you do find it, it'll cost 300 pesos the cheapest. The geniune looking guy was selling different designs, freshly made, for 100 pesos each; No brainer. I grabbed three. There goes my last 500 bucks. At least I still have 200 pesos for emergency.
Divisoria is love. My mom would disagree of course. She's more of a Greenhills shopper where it's airconditioned, more organized and safer in terms of security and product control. That may be true, Divisoria may not have the best circumstances when it comes to shopping. It's dirty, smelly, hot, overly crowded and disorganized, but if you're a person who really likes die-hard cheap finds (cheaper than ghills), see this kind of shopping as a fulfilling adventure and not to complain of the heat and the crowd, then you will love divisoria.
For some who know my basic interests like my mom, you'd be surprised by my revelation. You might ask that for a person who hates shopping, why would I even consider Divisoria? I still don't shop for clothes, shoes and stuff. I primarly look for vintage things like toys, decorations or something for the house. I also probably like the adventure of it. I like shopping in streets. The feeling is so vintage and exciting. I like shopping like it was during in medieval times when everything was on the street, there were no added costs to the goods. I like shopping in the raw. Whereas for malls, I'm not really a fan because I get bored. It's too organized and pretentious. For me, nothing beats shopping at warehouses and streets especially if it's dirt cheap. Most of the times, the mood also helps.
For those who are looking for durable toys to buy for their godchildren or children, go to Anding's Toy Store. It's near Tabora street (orange building). You will find all the toys for all ages there. For those planning to have themed birthday parties, this is the place to go for giveways, party favors and toys. From board games to educational games for all ages, kiddie cars, remote cars, dolls, military toys, cards, wholesale mini-toys, sports, masks, balloons, costumes, everything that a kid and a kid-at-heart would want, it's in Anding's. The quality, packaging and selection are something that would awe you.
For those looking for Christmas Decors go to the Tabora Stretch. Intricately designed decors, christmas boxes and lights are there. Flowers with stems found in SM that easily costs 40 bucks each is 180 bucks a dozen, all in different colors, in Tabora. Wreath and garlands cost 120-250 each. 2 dozens of huge, glittered christmas balls sell for 150-250. Ribbons and beads for yards sell at 150. Christmas figs cost 25 pesos each as opposed to 70 pesos each found in leading malls. In some more established stalls you could ask them to decorate stuff for you.
The usual wares of Divisoria like gardening tools, house ornaments, kitchen wares are also found in Tabora. Fruits and vegetables are all over the place. For cheap shoes, bags and clothes there's Divisoria Mall in Tabora and there's a more organized 168 mall.
Go there this early while you still can. Friday, but considerably a week day, is already crowded in Divisoria. It's best if you bring someone along with you who doesn't mind the physical situation of the place. It helps to roam around. You just have to keep an eye on good quality finds and don't go to Divisoria without a goal or without a list of priority purchases. It's an experience you will never forget, and it depends, you'll love.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
R.I.P. Oreo
This afternoon, my sister, mother and I decided to spend the day somewhere specifically at Market Market. My mom heard that they have good christmas decors there and since she doesn't have the inclination to go to Divisoria anymore, Market Market is a rough stop. Shopping? Irk. I just immediately planned to attend a cycling class before joining them in the afternoon. We were all ready to go when my sister insisted that we bring Harvey with us.
It's been a while since Harvey was able to "socialize" and go malling. Aside from the village park, I always find reasons to bring Harvey to outdoor events and chill public places. We usually end up in Serendra or Bonifacio High Street at the Fort. It's basically nearer from our place, and we all know that dogs are very welcome there. With Fully Booked, coffee shops and cool restaurants, it's also easier for me hang out.
I never have problems of bringing Harvey in a public place except for some extreme hyperactive moments when he ends up banging his head somewhere and spilling my coffee. Harvey, despite being active and playful, is such a sociable dog. He can never be a guard dog actually. He likes observing and playing with strangers. He flirts around and gives everyone that innocent dog-face that is sure to make anyone's heart melt. I usually answer queries about him, which is equally cool and annoying sometimes.
I also like walking Harvey in public places because I get a doze of human entertainment. Some people, when they see Harvey, knowingly tell their companions, "Oh Look, a CHIHUAHUA." Wrong. What an ignoramus. He doesn't look like one at all, but I admire their deluded conviction. Then there are others who expose themselves to be halfway men. I've had instances wherein Harvey finds himself drawn to a dog and the master is a clean-scrubbed, handsome and amiable fellow. Only that the fellow is 90% bound to be gay, calling their pet, "Come on, baby dear" just makes me cringe. There are others who are overreacting, surprisingly most of them are men. We were walking happily then suddenly we see men, catching the sight of Harvey, moves in such Keanu-Matrix motion, as they'll be put in harm's way. Err, right, when we're a good three to four feet away, when Harvey's on a leash, and when Harvey is practically as small as a puppy.
But in general most people like him and he likes them back. Some dogs bitch him around, but he never does anything about it. He never fights and he seldom barks. For a dog, he has breeding.
Unfortunately some men don't have breeding. They become lower than scums of beasts.
When I heard about Oreo, the terrier mix dog that was thrown by his owner in a 6 foot building, but miraculously survived, I appreciated Harvey even more. Oreo was euthanized last Friday based on professional recommendations because he cannot socially adapt anymore and may be a threat to society. He is highly injured and traumatized by the fall and in result, he distrusts humans immediately even his frequent handler. He bites people and becomes warfreak. Such a sweet faced animal has gone negative towards humans that dog experts were in unison to euthanize. Despite pleas from dog lovers, the procedure pushed through. Though, I do understand the move. I could just imagine that Oreo must be in physical and emotional pain. I initially thought that they should just take time for Oreo to recover psychologically, but given the factual risk and the limited resources, this had to be done. It's sad, but whatever happened to the 19 year old owner? I hope he was put on death penalty too. He deserves it. Fine, castration without anesthesia would be an equal punishment.
Rest in Peace, Oreo. May you find dog heaven and take all the bones that you want. It was just a shame you fell into the hands of that crazy 19 year old. You could've been Harvey's playmate. I would've adopted you.
It's been a while since Harvey was able to "socialize" and go malling. Aside from the village park, I always find reasons to bring Harvey to outdoor events and chill public places. We usually end up in Serendra or Bonifacio High Street at the Fort. It's basically nearer from our place, and we all know that dogs are very welcome there. With Fully Booked, coffee shops and cool restaurants, it's also easier for me hang out.
I never have problems of bringing Harvey in a public place except for some extreme hyperactive moments when he ends up banging his head somewhere and spilling my coffee. Harvey, despite being active and playful, is such a sociable dog. He can never be a guard dog actually. He likes observing and playing with strangers. He flirts around and gives everyone that innocent dog-face that is sure to make anyone's heart melt. I usually answer queries about him, which is equally cool and annoying sometimes.
I also like walking Harvey in public places because I get a doze of human entertainment. Some people, when they see Harvey, knowingly tell their companions, "Oh Look, a CHIHUAHUA." Wrong. What an ignoramus. He doesn't look like one at all, but I admire their deluded conviction. Then there are others who expose themselves to be halfway men. I've had instances wherein Harvey finds himself drawn to a dog and the master is a clean-scrubbed, handsome and amiable fellow. Only that the fellow is 90% bound to be gay, calling their pet, "Come on, baby dear" just makes me cringe. There are others who are overreacting, surprisingly most of them are men. We were walking happily then suddenly we see men, catching the sight of Harvey, moves in such Keanu-Matrix motion, as they'll be put in harm's way. Err, right, when we're a good three to four feet away, when Harvey's on a leash, and when Harvey is practically as small as a puppy.
But in general most people like him and he likes them back. Some dogs bitch him around, but he never does anything about it. He never fights and he seldom barks. For a dog, he has breeding.
Unfortunately some men don't have breeding. They become lower than scums of beasts.
When I heard about Oreo, the terrier mix dog that was thrown by his owner in a 6 foot building, but miraculously survived, I appreciated Harvey even more. Oreo was euthanized last Friday based on professional recommendations because he cannot socially adapt anymore and may be a threat to society. He is highly injured and traumatized by the fall and in result, he distrusts humans immediately even his frequent handler. He bites people and becomes warfreak. Such a sweet faced animal has gone negative towards humans that dog experts were in unison to euthanize. Despite pleas from dog lovers, the procedure pushed through. Though, I do understand the move. I could just imagine that Oreo must be in physical and emotional pain. I initially thought that they should just take time for Oreo to recover psychologically, but given the factual risk and the limited resources, this had to be done. It's sad, but whatever happened to the 19 year old owner? I hope he was put on death penalty too. He deserves it. Fine, castration without anesthesia would be an equal punishment.
Rest in Peace, Oreo. May you find dog heaven and take all the bones that you want. It was just a shame you fell into the hands of that crazy 19 year old. You could've been Harvey's playmate. I would've adopted you.
The Season's Happy and Not so Happy Thoughts
Who loves stress? Well, sometimes I do, but Christmas Stress has a different brand to it. It's another world of stress. Unlike office deadlines, cramming and crunch times, Christmas Stress exists the entire season, 2 months the most. Aside from time and expected effort, money, interactions and psychological fits add up to it, which make this season oh-so special.
I'm not being negative. I'm just being observant. Sometimes I know it's Christmas not because of the lights, decorations and annoyingly cheerio music, but because of these happy and not-so-happy things.
Also, I've never met anyone that hates food. We may love different types of food at different quantities, but regardless of whatever food we want to eat, it nurtures us and gives us comfort. Christmas makes eating more accessible, more frequent and for me, more pleasant. Food establishments develop promo gimmicks that cater to Christmas. Flavors, we are not accustomed to have the entire year, are easily offered by restaurants. Since people are in a festive mood and supposedly more financially empowered situation, budget constraints in food are loosened. From family get-togethers, friendly dinners, dates and office parties, eating becomes frequent. November to December weekends are sometimes not enough to accept food invitations. Even stomach space gives up sometimes. And I don't know about you, but eating for me is more delightful during this season. Food has become more festive, and for me, yummier. Different ingredients, dishes and concoctions just effortlessly burst. There's always something new to try; and of course we revert to most loved traditional dishes that our relatives only find time to cook during the season. Christmas is all about succulent meats like lechon, wonderful cakes, desserts, gourmet seafood dishes, pastas, pancit, barbeque and KFC take-outs. Sigh. Christmas gives us license to eat food that we don't normally eat the whole year (with quantity too!). Sharing it with loved ones is even better.
Another happy moment for me is actually reflecting the end of the year with a solemn purpose. To close the year is always a mighty feeling for me. To know that I'm still alive and to recount all the blessings we have all experienced are yearend solemn activities. This is the perfect time to look back on what we have done and achieved so far. It also makes people more generous and kind. Since Christmas puts people in high spirits, we constantly nurture love and find immaterial things more valuable, so favors are usually easier to course through. There is no better season than this to forgive and love someone.
One of the things that I really don't look forward to involves unnecessary stress due to financial turmoil. Expenses. Money. Resources. Moolah. Sure, when we work we have bonuses and such, but there's a reason why they give it on Christmas. It's there for us to spend and be painfully generous.
I have a friend who has 20 or so godchildren. He never fails to give them something. I have friends who give extraordinary gifts to friends and families that go beyond rationality and leaving them bankrupt. I know a friend who instantly forgets there's a bill that comes after swiping that credit card. I have friends who travel constantly during this season and spend for expensive gifts just because the commercially-infused season calls for it. We spend for groceries, be extra generous with relatives to the point of being financially bankrupt, which we deny and ignore this season. A certain Filipino mentality helps us get through, that money is just money. It's something that we can always earn because giving gifts, spending for succulent parties, and bringing pleasure to someone are priceless. So swipe it. Withdraw those moolahs and try not to think about it.
Two days ago, I easily purchased two international and one domestic trips as Christmas gifts for my family. I was brave because the airline seats were on sale, but nevertheless quite steep for my situation. I decided to give them these because it's something that I KNOW they would really appreciate. I also took advantage of the ticket sales and the mere joy of NOT going from one place to another searching for Christmas gifts. All I needed were full blast internet and my holy plastic. Easily my credit card bled as I am now down with credit. But I can just be happy for them, it beats the feeling of crying and worrying at night, which I find myself doing sometimes. But this is just on a personal note.
Aside from financial stress, Christmas get-togethers with friends and family could be a nuisance most especially if you do not want to go. There are groups of friends you practically share nothing in common with anymore, but the dinners become mandatory. It sucks. You pay for dinner that you don't enjoy, but then again, it's mandatory. More so in family occasions, eccentric to awkward, you'd have to attend. These things can easily wipe anyone out.
Christmas shopping and decorating come in third. Making that shopping list and actually doing something about is stressful. You have to shop around and search like what millions of people do in malls. But if you're on a certain budget, you have to tread the busy and hot streets of Divisioria just to look for gifts and affordable Christmas decors. Getting those trees and accessories from dusty closets always gives me allergies. The labor, christmas wrapping and beating the rush are worse than an intense workout.
I'm not being negative. I'm just being observant. Sometimes I know it's Christmas not because of the lights, decorations and annoyingly cheerio music, but because of these happy and not-so-happy things.
HAPPY THINGS OF CHRISTMAS
There are happy moments that only Christmas could bring. One would be friend lunch-outs and dinners. During Christmas, someone in your particular group plans a tete-a-tete. This is practically the best time to catch-up when you've summed up on what you have been doing for the entire year. At least, you have lots of things to talk about. This is the season wherein people are happy to see familiar faces that emanate the love for friends. The get-togethers are also perfect instances to exchange gifts because for some reason, people will be FREE from their schedules and stop making lame excuses. People are more concentrated on searching and nurturing the love and connection that's why schedules can or should be able to accommodate. You might be working in just a building away from your high school friend, but you never get the chance to see each other because you're both busy doing your own stuff the entire year. It's a waste of time to meet up with no important occasion. But in Christmas, there's the spirit to pool the comforting friends because the season is an occasion in itself. It's always a best way to catch up and end a busy year.Also, I've never met anyone that hates food. We may love different types of food at different quantities, but regardless of whatever food we want to eat, it nurtures us and gives us comfort. Christmas makes eating more accessible, more frequent and for me, more pleasant. Food establishments develop promo gimmicks that cater to Christmas. Flavors, we are not accustomed to have the entire year, are easily offered by restaurants. Since people are in a festive mood and supposedly more financially empowered situation, budget constraints in food are loosened. From family get-togethers, friendly dinners, dates and office parties, eating becomes frequent. November to December weekends are sometimes not enough to accept food invitations. Even stomach space gives up sometimes. And I don't know about you, but eating for me is more delightful during this season. Food has become more festive, and for me, yummier. Different ingredients, dishes and concoctions just effortlessly burst. There's always something new to try; and of course we revert to most loved traditional dishes that our relatives only find time to cook during the season. Christmas is all about succulent meats like lechon, wonderful cakes, desserts, gourmet seafood dishes, pastas, pancit, barbeque and KFC take-outs. Sigh. Christmas gives us license to eat food that we don't normally eat the whole year (with quantity too!). Sharing it with loved ones is even better.
Another happy moment for me is actually reflecting the end of the year with a solemn purpose. To close the year is always a mighty feeling for me. To know that I'm still alive and to recount all the blessings we have all experienced are yearend solemn activities. This is the perfect time to look back on what we have done and achieved so far. It also makes people more generous and kind. Since Christmas puts people in high spirits, we constantly nurture love and find immaterial things more valuable, so favors are usually easier to course through. There is no better season than this to forgive and love someone.
THINGS THAT MAKE CHRISTMAS SEASON SUCK
One of the things that I really don't look forward to involves unnecessary stress due to financial turmoil. Expenses. Money. Resources. Moolah. Sure, when we work we have bonuses and such, but there's a reason why they give it on Christmas. It's there for us to spend and be painfully generous.
I have a friend who has 20 or so godchildren. He never fails to give them something. I have friends who give extraordinary gifts to friends and families that go beyond rationality and leaving them bankrupt. I know a friend who instantly forgets there's a bill that comes after swiping that credit card. I have friends who travel constantly during this season and spend for expensive gifts just because the commercially-infused season calls for it. We spend for groceries, be extra generous with relatives to the point of being financially bankrupt, which we deny and ignore this season. A certain Filipino mentality helps us get through, that money is just money. It's something that we can always earn because giving gifts, spending for succulent parties, and bringing pleasure to someone are priceless. So swipe it. Withdraw those moolahs and try not to think about it.
Two days ago, I easily purchased two international and one domestic trips as Christmas gifts for my family. I was brave because the airline seats were on sale, but nevertheless quite steep for my situation. I decided to give them these because it's something that I KNOW they would really appreciate. I also took advantage of the ticket sales and the mere joy of NOT going from one place to another searching for Christmas gifts. All I needed were full blast internet and my holy plastic. Easily my credit card bled as I am now down with credit. But I can just be happy for them, it beats the feeling of crying and worrying at night, which I find myself doing sometimes. But this is just on a personal note.
Aside from financial stress, Christmas get-togethers with friends and family could be a nuisance most especially if you do not want to go. There are groups of friends you practically share nothing in common with anymore, but the dinners become mandatory. It sucks. You pay for dinner that you don't enjoy, but then again, it's mandatory. More so in family occasions, eccentric to awkward, you'd have to attend. These things can easily wipe anyone out.
Christmas shopping and decorating come in third. Making that shopping list and actually doing something about is stressful. You have to shop around and search like what millions of people do in malls. But if you're on a certain budget, you have to tread the busy and hot streets of Divisioria just to look for gifts and affordable Christmas decors. Getting those trees and accessories from dusty closets always gives me allergies. The labor, christmas wrapping and beating the rush are worse than an intense workout.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)