Day 143, Aug 29, 2011

Harbor view:

This is a picture I'm proud of. I always wanted to take some night scenes of the harbor - or of the city lights at night from afar. Even the slight angle gives it a contoured look and sort of reminds me of how people at times feel when they're on a boat (or ship). The reflection of the boats on the water's surface, plus the distant lights of the pier and beyond in the horizon.  Add to that the clouds from a relatively rainy night and the scene looks almost surreal. Wow... can't believe I actually took this.

I just never got the chance to try taking such pictures - that is, until this evening. Barbie had a dinner to attend to at Sofitel, and I would normally balk at the possibility of having to go there on a Monday evening - but this evening was a holiday, so I was relatively well rested, aside from just going to Greenhills this afternoon - I was just home the entire day. since I knew I would be waiting for Barbie as she had her dinner, I planned for the evening with my reading materials (comics) and camera plus tripod - for those long exposure shots I wanted to experiment with. Only problem - if ever, would be the weather.

So, when Barbie said, it was time to go - I grabbed my camera bag, made sure I did not forget the Gorilla tripod and literally flew out the door - eager to drop her at Sofitel so I could set up my evening photo shoot. The rest, as they say is luck, and skill.

Day 142, Aug 28, 2011

Cuenca Visit (finally):

This visit was planned with the intent of celebrating our August celebrators - namely, Li on the 4th; Bing bing on the 12th and Patty on the 21st. But it was only at this particular time (thanks to the upcoming long weekend) that we got to finally visit.

Planning a trip to Batangas isn't that easy - and aside from the obvious need to go there on a two hour drive, there's the need to consider toll fees, and other things needed to be brought there - like the boxes mama asked me to get from Fred, plus the extension wire... and other items too many to mention.

Of course, once there, we could expect foods galore - in this case, mama's callos (of which I ate three servings of), barbecue and chicken - not to mention the mangoes, tomato, onion salad (a.k.a. enchiladas)  - capped off with some chocolate cake and barako coffee. We talked, caught up with what was happening with each other, and I was glad to see mama able to walk about - looking strong.

Apparently, her medication is doing her good, and I'm glad to see that. We left around 5pm - a bit late for our usual departure - got caught in a really strong downpour in the South Expressway - forcing me to slow down and use flashers and hi beam lights - with still little visibility of the vehicle up front.

Still, we got to Manila in good time - in fact, time enough to go hear a 7pm mass in Mary the Queen. So over all, it was a good trip. Next trip will most likely be during the Christmas holidays.

Day 141, Aug 27, 2011

Bacardi Night:

Its been ages since we've had our last Bacardi night... as previous attempts did not just seem take off. As it is, this happens to be a small crowd compared to what we would normally have - but this did not mean that the night was a waste... although we belatedly realized that we only had one Bacardi bottle (I thought we had two) - we still got it to fit the evening.

Ariel likewise got to join us and taste the mojitos (see pitcher on table), so we happened to have a good sized attendance, and I might even be glad that we had only one Bacardi bottle - as it gave us the reason to go home relatively early - allowing me time to rest for my Cuenca visit the next day.

Day 140, Aug 26, 2011

Yaki Mix Makati:

This was an evening of get together for all Accenture facilitators - a sort of 'thank you for a job well done' these past trying months.

At first, I was wondering why Yaki Mix? That is, until I realized that Yaki Mix is a buffet table with mostly Japanese style cooking - and I simply enjoyed the night.

I had some tempura as starters - and a few crispy pata, then quickly focused on the Salmon sashimi and the many types of makis - from Califronia to every place else.

I could have gone for a third round - but honestly, I was already full, so I opted for dessert which turned out ot be the least favorite part due to the bland taste of such desserts. Oh well... it was good while it lasted.

This picture is of their modern chandelier, as I once saw this in a display window - wanted to take a shot, but might have been told not to... some people think I might be stealing ideas - as opposed to blogging. Sheesh... but nope, thankfully, that did not happen here. So take this shot I did. I would have wanted to take a group shot but we were all on separate tables.

My only hope is that come next time, this should happen around lunch time - then I wouldn't be too worried about eating too much in the evening.

Day 139, Aug 25, 2011

Pigeons waiting for their food:

I got to talk to the trainer of these pigeons during one of those days when he was feeding the birds in the afternoon. He mentioned how it was his idea to have pigeons here in this makeshift plaza, to try and replicate the pigeon feeding experience that they have in Italy.

I then noticed that the suggested bird feeding time was 7am and 4pm - and I'm sure, after months of being fed this way, the birds get conditioned to such a schedule. My concern though, is that I don't see this guy - the pigeon trainer anymore, and the pigeons don't seem to be getting their morning food rations these days. I mean, what else would be the reason for them to swoop down and wait - not minding the people - and in fact, hoping they get tossed a morsel or two for food? how diligent is the pigeon feeding in the Piazza these days?

Sure, these pigeons look fat which might mean they're getting fed - but not in the manner they might be used to. This was the morning scene I noticed (no training, remember?) as I hung around the Piazza while waiting for lunch with some colleagues, and the opening of Fully Booked in the Fort. Seeing this - plus the possible fact that these pigeons may not be fed if people don't get food; now in sachets - (are these now for sale?) if people don't get these sachets.

Hopefully, I'm just wrong with my observations - else these pigeons will just leave. Conditioning not withstanding, they will need to survive and migrate elsewhere where food is more abundant.

Day 138, Aug 24, 2011

Coaching:

This is my last scheduled class for this fiscal year of Accenture - although it wasn't really the last one, I guess the enrollees for the Thursdsay and Friday training did not reach the magic number - hence the cancellation, hence my relatively long break (since Monday and Tuesday next week are holidays).

Be that as it may, I'm glad that my last session for 2010-2011 happens to be Coaching in the Worlplace, and I get to partner with Jingo - another colleague whom I have not been partnering with these past months, due to the fact that we normally train in different circles.

In this picture, our participants are watching a video that hopefully demonstrates empathy - so that they may find how it (empathy) helps make the coach seem open and approachable. I also liked the fact that the conduct was done in this particular room - spacious even for the large class we were tasked to handle. Over all, it was a nice class, and Jingo wrapped his part up rather early, so I could take my time in the afternoon. We did finish withing the 5pm time frame. Considering how tight the course's conduct time line is (and how others often go beyond the proposed 5:30pm end, I'd still call that a fast paced finish.

Day 137, Aug 23, 2011

Our house (or Leaders' Window - day 2):

This activity is the last one (not counting the newspaper headlines which is normally scheduled at the start of day 2) that the participants of Leaders' Window will be creating as a team. 

The idea is to give them around five minutes to plan how they'll do the house, then a minute of preparation time, and lastly, just a minute to build the house. Under most circumstances the first sound (they have two rounds) will end up with a haphazardly done house due to poor planning and inexperience in creating such a house.

The next step is to give them another 5 minutes of planning before round two - but even before that, we ask 'is this the best you can do?' - which brings in the element of 'how can we improve from our last work? What lessons can be derived from round one?... and most of the time, they come up with a better house model - as this group's house looks to be - despite its apparent size when you consider that this model is being done in under a minute. Amazing how even just a little experience can do to help make anything better. Hindsight is indeed better than being blind - and this is what we (in a manner of speaking) emphasize as par for this course.

Day 136, Aug 22, 2011

Leaders' Window - day 1:

Its a two-day course on leadership style discovery, plus some vital knowledge in being able to keep things - and its a course that I've been conducting for the better part of five year (maybe more).

This particular run is in McKinley, and it allows me to co-facilitate with Alain. Lucky for us that it is McKinley because the class size is rather large.


Continuing my series of Facilitators in action, the spotlight now falls on my most recent partner - as I said in my previous entry, Alain.

Of the facilitators I've shared training with in the old PrimaryEdge days, Alain was one person I was not able to get to work with on a regular basis - and I sort of wonder why that did not happen more frequently. I mean, I've had my fair share of training with Mon or Jingo - but Alain was always being partnered with someone else... or I was starting to train in the technical field - hence not really, intersecting Alain's sphere of influence.

As a facilitator, Alain can hold his own with anyone - he uses his wit to supplement his knowledge - and for someone who's conducting the course for possible just his second time, I have to say that he carries himself well. No one in the room would have guessed that he's relatively new in facilitating Leaders' Window. There also seems to be another side effect of our partnership... one that I find useful, so long as it doesn't get abused - we're both fast facilitators... you could chalk it up to our direct to the point manner of teaching... but definitely not due to our making shortcuts. Nope... rather, we've mastered enough of the course to streamline it - without sacrificing any topic.

Day 135, Aug 21, 2011

Promenade:

There's a good chance that if you ever need to seek me out on a weekend, the Promenade would be a logical choice.

Not that I'm always there - no fail, rather its been a place where my family and I go to - sometimes, to hear mass, other times to watch a movie, still others to just enjoy the food or beverages available in said place.

Another reason why this place is a favorite hang out of mine is because there's a Fully Booked branch in here too - and I can just stay in Fully Booked, just admiring - sometimes reading a new book, or comic trade... not that I do just read, mind you. If I like the book, I buy it... even if it is distinctly possible to just read it. I'd call it giving the author his (or her) due. If it isn't interesting or useful, I simply leave it.

Day 134, Aug 20, 2011

More Comics:

This particular batch can best be described as the batch I got for lack of any other items to read. Its also the farewell issues of some titles - specifically the DC ones, seeing as by next month, all their titles (52 of them) will - by way of a consequence of Flashpoint, will be rebooted; with new number 1s for them all.

Why is DC doing this? Simple... they want new fans to have jumping in points. I mean, as a reader, I can recall one problem I had stopping me form jumping into DC before - and it was their long history that I found intimidating. This all changed when Crisis on Infinite Earths came out. So I understand, and even appreciate the gesture... but (and this is similar to crisis) why wipe out all the good stories or histories? Old readers may stick around - or they may opt to leave... depending on how much they like (or hate) what the DC universe is to become.

Day 133, Aug 19, 2011

My mug:

I use this when Barbie has one of those fruit and vegetables   shake that can be filling to anyone. In this case, I had this mug almost filled to the rim with such a drink - and did drink it on the way to work.

Once that's done, I simply use the mug as my water mug - one that I always need beside me - as talking... and lecturing can be tedious work, and can likewise make someone's mouth go dry. This has happened to me in the past, and I normally need to take water - the warm variety, if possible - because talking simply becomes impossible.

My only problem with this mug is sometimes, I do forget to bring it - specially during the days when Barbie does not make the shake... so out of sight, out of mind.

I really do need to remind myself into bringing this mug... that way, I'll have less trips to the water cooler / pantry.

Day 132, Aug 18, 2011

Comics this August (batch 2):

They may not look too many - and that's because I try to get them at a slower pace than usual - but truth be told, its also because for this particular moment anyway, there were not too many comics that piqued my interest.

But even then, this seems like a good enough number. Of the 12 titles I got today, five of them are Fear Itself connected - I mean, heck... if you collect Marvel, there are just a few not affected by this event... and event that isn't too keen on its antagonist's purpose - but who knows? It (meaning the explanation) might be just around the corner. That said, the Iron Age was a good read - and so is the current arc of X-force... which I backtracked by getting an earlier issue. SHIELD is a must read - it may be a bit hard to jump into at this time, in which case, if the trade comes out, I strongly recommend it. The X-men issue was also a nice read... Herc not so. Did I already say that Avengers Academy is always a great read? If not - it is.

Why was this batch separate from the previous one? As I said... different comic shops - or at least, it this case, different branches.

Day 131, Aug 17, 2011

August batch (not all of it though):

I had to mention that one last bit because it really is true - the comics I get won't come in one large batch... unless I wait one whole month before visiting my friendly neighborhood comic shop - and maybe even after that I won't be able to get them all anyway - seeing as I get them form different places as well.

This one though came from my every trusty shop... the one that I really frequent. Of all the titles I got today, the one that stands out - not just from my personal viewpoint - but from those of other readers/reviews is Avengers Academy... and the one that I found rather disappointing (bordering one wasted money) is Avengers... and once again, its mainly because if characterization - though it might be remotely possible that this might happen - I'd still say its a stretch... hence the disappointment.  

Other than that, I also liked the Cap Corps issue and the Spider-man Spider Island story so far.

Day 130, Aug 16, 2011

In between lectures:

Yup, this is me in the ideas exchange, where I usually spend my down time - meaning as my co-facilitator talks, I make it a point to go out and either read a book, watch CNN in the LED TV or just admire the view from the long line of panoramic windows - like I'm doing now.

Its better, I feel, than staying in the room - and feeling sleepy because I've nothing to do at the back. At times, I just enter the empty room beside ours - that way I have privacy while likewise hearing what my colleague is saying. Either way, I took this picture using the trusty timer, and allowed for my face to be shown for this month - yeah, that's right, my once a month mug shot, right here... right now. In case it isn't obvious yet, I also need not study because this is day 2 of Application Analysis... everything I need to know is in my brains.

Day 129, Aug 15, 2011

Francis:

Continuing my series of photos regarding my colleagues in training. This time, I'm partnered with Francis for Application Analysis - another three day course, and one that I have been delivering for quite some time now, I hardly need to review any of the materials at all.

I've mastered the topics and in some way, the project I came from made me appreciate some aspects of the training a bit more... albeit, just a bit - after all, I did join the U2K2 team some time during testing already, so I did not see the analysis phase.

That said, I asked Francis to tackle the morning sessions,  so I could control the afternoon ones - and in that regard, likewise control when we could end each day. Sneaky? Not really, as I said, between Francis and me, I know the materials better by heart - so I know where necessary adjustments can be made - and where things need to be emphasized. Lucky for me, Francis was open to the idea - and later, he too was amazed at how I was able to compress the discussions - without short changing anything. I'm also sure he did not mind ending a little earlier than usual... in fact this allowed us to beat the rain, as we;d arrive home before it poured and caused traffic jams.

Day 128, Aug 14, 2011

Cavite visit:

This is a long overdue visit - originally scheduled in time for Barbie's dad's birthday last June, something happened which made Barbie disappointed enough not to push through with the plan.

In fact, said disappointment even made her decide not to see or talk to Bea before the latter went off for Dubai. I suspect that this might have even continued all the way to Christmas, had it not been for the fact that her father had to undergo a critical operation (to bypass a cancer blocking his waste tracks)... and fail. That made everyone realize that their father may not be around for long, and in retrospect, they had to once again unite - Barbie more so, to help support their dad.

Naturally, one of the highlights of the visit - aside from seeing Dad, was to see Jude Brent, and realize just how he's adjusting to the fact that his mom isn't around. Well, Barbie and I played a bit with him - and he looked, for the most part, as his usual happy self. This picture has a story in itself... Jude apparently uses the chair that has been laid down as his makeshift command center (I'm only guessing of course), and when Barbie sat at his place, he wanted her out of it. Possessive isn't he? He he he.

Day 127, Aug 13, 2011

PADS day 3...

Yup, Gina had a prior appointment (she had a previously scheduled reunion with classmates to celebrate someone's 50th birthday by wya of a ballroom dancing theme) and so, Jinky had to step in and take Gina's place in PADS.

Good thing too, since I've not fully grasped how PADS runs as I've always been pulled out of my prevoious sessions for one reason or another - hence this is the first time I was able to handle PADS from start to finish (hurrah!).

Jinky's style is more relaxed but she still gets to share a lot of ideas with her participants - and in PADS, she seems to be in her element. I admire her dedication as well - considering that 1) this is a Saturday and 2) she lives all the way in Laguna. I wouldn't do this if I were her. Lucky for me, she wasn't like me, huh?

As it is, we got ot finish only slightly ahead of plan - but finish we did - to our participants' relief and applause. Just like I did when taking Gina's pic - I did not use the flash - nor the zoom lens for this; relying instead on the camera's settings for ISO, focus and aperture - in other words all manual baby. Nice to know I'm getting a hang of things. Oh yeah... and now officially ends my first full week in training; well, with exception to Wednesday's driving with Barbie - but that was only because the originally scheduled training that day was cancelled.

Day 126, Aug 12, 2011

Breakfast at Figaro's CG3:

As I have been more often than not conducting Cyber 3 trainings only on Saturdays, I would notice the Figaro's at the building's ground level as always closed. Too bad since I felt I wanted to take coffee - and eat there, as I often do when in McKinley or Greenhills.

Unfortunately, such was not the case - as for some reason (and I suspect it has to do with much less human traffic during weekends) this branch remains closed - not mindful of the potential sales it can have on Saturdays, to say the least. Still, since my PADS training with Gina took me here on a weekday, I was finally able to try out the place via their breakfast dish of bangus (milkfish) belly and fried eggs, I thought 'what the hey - why not?', and I really enjoyed the meal. The brewed coffee was also nice - though I would have preferred the one I would normally order when in Figaro... namely their Batangas brew (mixed coffee blend that included the famous Batangas Barako coffee.

Day 125, Aug 11, 2011

The face says it all!

Gina is one of my more expressive friends. She will say what she wants, when she feels the need to do so - and when she does, she won't mince words (although for the most part, she is able to properly phrase her sentences to be polite when needed).

She is also a self-confessed 'cannot lie' person - preferring to speak the truth (sometimes to a fault) rather than being pretentious. The other half of this is her facial expression as seen in this picture - where she is reacting to statement made by a participant (as a joke, mind you - but you can see how Gina feels about the attempt to be cute).

I was, once again at the back - though this time, the room's dimensions were not as long as the time I needed to sue my zoom lens - here, had I used it, I would have had 'in your face' shots... and as of this time, I was still partial to a half body shot depicting a trainer in action - or in this case, reaction. The training was all about Packaged application design - three days spanning Thursday (today) up until Saturday.

Day 124, Aug 10, 2011

Jay:

Here is a sample of what good natural lighting can do to a picture.

As this Wednesday was a rest day for me, I was able to accompany (i.e. drive around for) Barbie to her 'talk' in Watsons (situated near SM Mall of Asia), while I wait by reading a few materials (comics or novel... alternately).

Apparently, die to misunderstandings, Barbie's talk did not push through - and she decided to have lunch in Magallanes, enroute to her Paranaque office where she needed to make a quick stop.

All this time, she was accompanied by her office mate Jay - and as it so happened, he did not yet have a profile picture in FB, and since I always make it a point to bring my camera, I decided to take a shot (or two... or three). I was vaguely aware of how bright the ambient lighting was - and how much brighter the window's background (high noon) light was. I thus decided to take Jay's picture with a flash, as I had learned in previous experiences that had I not done this, the picture would result in a darker foreground, thus having a silhouette shot rather than this profile pic perfect take. I'd have to say that its all in the lighting... a strong background light complemented by a soft frontal flash. I must likewise point out that a lot of Jay's friends liked and commented on this picture when he did use it as his new FB profile pic. Neat huh?

Day 123, Aug 9, 2011

Ariel:

Day 2 of Team Lead School, though this time, my partner in crime for this day happens to be Ariel. He took over Mon's slot, as Mon had some personal matter to work on.

Ariel is already a seasoned speaker, and by this time, he is also familiar with the Accenture materials - he has also seemingly ingrained himself into the group, as they have accepted him as a viable co-facilitator (unlike a few others) by the more seasoned co-facilitators I have. His penchant to talk, share ideas and joke are a seeming hit to our participants.

He is also a seemingly calming and unbiased influence to the discussions we sometimes have regarding problems we've been encountering with our (meaning P1's) client. Yup... I found working with Ariel quite easy... and he never fails to somehow insert his other focus (when he's not training with us) into our discussions... namely investing (be it stock market or in metals... the latter of which he is now more focused with).

Just like my take with Mon, I used the zoom lens to take Ariel in action - and notice the blurry arms, which indicates that he was gesturing as I took this shot. Similarly, I did not use flash photography here... just natural lighting.

Day 122, Aug 8, 2011

Mon: 

Since its back to the grind - training conduct wise; I was tasked to conduct a Team Lead School for the usual two days, starting today. Normally, these kinds of training are handled by a tandem of facilitators, and it just so happened that Mon was my co-facilitator for this particular run.

I took it upon myself to then practice with my zoom lens as Mon was lecturing - and as evident in the picture, the man is camera conscious (he he he), still talking but looking at me as I focused for this shot. So as not to distract the participants I, of course, did not use any flash to enhance light - relying instead on the light intake and post editing to enhance whatever I needed.

One minor problem while taking this shot is the fact that Mon was moving around, which would make things a bit blurry. But at this particular point, he paused... posed... and I shot. 

Day 121, Aug 7, 2011

Parlor:

I accompanied Barbie to the parlor today - and as the picture shows, she's having her nails done - with one attendant working on her hands, while the other is working on her feet.

As this picture shows, Barbie seems to be busy coordinating some stuff that's work-related, while she's being treated - another classic reason why we're in this parlor... if the work can be outsourced.

Of course, my intent in accompanying her is to make sure I likewise get a foot cleaning and toe nails trimmed. After all, if its more a burden to do these days, then might as well let the parlor do it's magic.

What is not obviously visible is the fact that I'm likewise enjoying my feet cleaning and foot spa treatment as I'm taking this picture.

Day 120, Aug 6, 2011

Repeat performance:

This chocolate eclair from Figaro's has appeared in my previous year's blog - hence I was a bit reluctant to feature it again. And yet, if I had enjoyed eating it again - should I not reflect that in my project 365?

I enjoyed taking this with my usual order of Barako Blend coffee - but even with out the coffee, it's still a treat to eat (hey, that rhymed! cool...) and if I could get away with it, I'd probably eat this once a week - okay, maybe I'd alternate with the Tiramisu flavored eclair - but mind you, I'd still be partial to this as the chocolate version seems to be my favorite among the three varieties (plain vanilla cream, choco or tiramisu). Yeah... and I believe this picture is better than that of its predecessor entry too. Then again, shouldn't that be expected? I should be getting better as I practice almost daily with my DSLR.

Day 119, Aug 5, 2011

Listening to Bo...

This is Bo Sanchez - known inspirational speaker, best-selling author, entrepreneur, get rich guru and I'm sure I can research a few more accolades for the guy. Today, Barbie and I went to listen to Bo's talk about getting rich - and as I suspected, it was a mixture of material and spiritual wealth.

I was, however, less impressed with him as a speaker - chalk it up to my Toastmasters background, my Accenture years or even my I/ACT history... but I found Bo underwhelming as a speaker. Make no mistake, his topic was educational for a lot of people - if they have not yet read Kiyosaki's ideas (I did). I was, of course, curious to hear what he had to say - and how he was going to say it... and even if it's just a Php500 fee, I felt a bit short changed. After all, I (technically) spent more than that with my time (approximately Php2,500 of my time for the morning - consultant, remember?).

This is not to say that Bo is a fake, or that I can definitely do what he does a whole lot better... after all, he is an expert in his field, and he's found a niche... something I have yet to do. But his technical aspects - educational as they were - were stretched to the limit (or is it because I've grown accustomed to Accenture's optimization ways, that I felt his presentation to be enormously stretched?) and his technique was a bit... automatic. I would even say that the Bo I saw was just going through the motions. I guess this is one reason why I did not bother getting a book and asking him to sign it. - nor did I bother to sign up for his succeeding seminar.

Thing is, I know I sometimes also just go through the motions - when I'm tired or simply uninspired to talk about something. Well, if anything, this reminds me of how I might look like to others. I could even cite reasons, but the bottom line is I too am guilty of not giving my all at times. This morning, therefore, was a reminder to me... of how I should be more inspired... and inspiring - specially if people will pay to listen to me... thanks for the timely lesson and reminder Bo, and here's to God's luck and guidance to us both.

Day 118, Aug 4, 2011

Back to my old ways:

No... not necessarily just stacking up drinks on top of each other - but training, that is. Yes... I did  decide to get back to work as soon as my second vacation day was over. After all, I've heard talk (from my colleagues during our Saturday training sessions) that trainings were peaking at a ridiculous level, so I knew my return would be timely - to say the least.

True enough, Malou jumped at my availability, and asked me to handle a training class with Gina, as early as Wednesday. Honestly speaking, it felt great to get back to the grind - doing things I know I'm really good at... including stacking drinks on top of each other when I'm kinda bored in class.

As it is, this tower could have been higher with more bottles - but I also did not want to distract the class from the lessons, so I just contented myself with this mini-masterpiece, and naturally decided to take a picture for posterity. It would have been great to use Coke bottles; this way I could have balanced things in a more precarious manner - as I learned to do in college. So yeah...  Looks like I'll be spending more time in Accenture once again - though should a new project arise, I will definitely take the challenge once again.,, specially if the price is right.

Meanwhile, I'm enjoying myself again - sharing knowledge, experience and  lessons - while doing it with colleagues and friends.

Day 117, Aug 3, 2011

Dad:

Today I met up with my dad - we decided to have breakfast in Pancake House, Magallanes before going our resepctive ways to work. what did we talk about? For starters, how life was treating me,

He was glad to hear I was doing okay - although in a consultant capacity and not   regularly employed. He told me a little about his past - and how his NYU Masters diploma always gave him the shortlist option - and how a similar Masters degree could help boost my employability factor... he also said he was willing ot fund for this - should I pursue such a path.  This has not been the first time he's talked to me about it... and I do wish I could take him up on this offer... but obviously, while doing the Accenture project, I could not even entertain the possibility. Does this mean I can do so now? Maybe I can... it's just two years, after all... and lots of research and studies to boot. Will I have the patience still... or perseverance?

Oh well, if anything else, it was nice touching base with him.

Day 115, Aug 1, 2011

/
Angel when asleep:

This is what comes to mind when I see this picture. I stayed home - as I've been rolled off the Unilever project which means, I'm currently resting... and am contemplating to do this for maybe a week. After all, it was tiring to stay in the project with so hectic a schedule - not to mention all the necessary learnings I had to absorb as I got involved with the project.

Let's see - I needed to learn about the client, the project, the software platform, the team and their responsibilities while doing the work of a PMO - working on the average of 10 hours a day, including lunch breaks - so sue me for wanting a vacation. Well, I got it... and I thought that this would be my 'me' day. A day totally devoted to me wanting to just rest - after I brought everyone to their respective locations (Bernice and Bryce to their respective schools and Barbie to work).

It is here that as I type out at my laptop, I notice my two dogs blissfully asleep near me - happy to note that one of their human keepers has decided to say with them - rather than the usual experience of being left at home while we all do our respective stuff. I mean, even if we do leave them with Vicky, I guess they know she's not really one of their masters - despite her feeding them and giving them an occasional bath. Oh well... guess they know who their real masters are.

Its times like these that I would envy them whenever I think of how they just probably laze around the entire day (as they seem to be doing now) - well not today, as I freely join them. Now, how long will I be able to enjoy this? That is something I will think of in a while... or maybe tomorrow. Today I'm simply singing Bruno Mars' Lazy Song.

Day 116, Aug 2, 2011

Strong Rain:

The first of August happens to be the first day I did not have to go to any Accenture project - having been rolled-off yesterday evening, I was technically free and in between assignments. As luck would have it, the second day saw a very strong rain (courtesy of a tropical depression) blanketing the Metro.

Lucky because, Unilever Philippines is known to be a flood-vulnerable location (I should know because I did feel this first hand once - and had to wait for the flood waters to subside before finally leaving at around 11pm).

I also convinced Barbie that with such a torrent, bringing her to Parañaque would likewise be flood-risky, and a quick call to her boss, explaining the situation (it was likewise starting to flood in our surroundings) allowed her ot just 'work at home'.

So this is us in Greenhills, enjoying breakfast and coffee at Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, while the rain was pouring itself continuously. At least we were dry and we still got to do some of our respective Internet stuff courtesy of the place's WiFi connection. Though I worried at times how I might need to leave the silver car in Greenhills and get the black one out of Bacood lest it gets damaged by floods, thankfully, this did not prove a necessity, as the rains - though strong, were not continuously strong in its downpour. This day allowed me to not only relax, but it also allowed me to spend quality time with Barbie. So I'm definitely not complaining.

This picture shows the window of Coffee Bean... and how the outside is almost invisible due to the rain's heavy downpour.

Day 114, Jul 31, 2011

Captain America!

Yes, as this picture shows - I forked up cash for us to watch Captain America in 3D. Its rare that we - as a family get to watch a movie, but somehow, we got to watch this as a complete family... and how was this film's rendition of the Super Soldier?

Before I continue, I must point out that Captain America is one of my favorite heroes in Marvel. I even wrote a rather long historical summary of the character in Avengersforever.org (goes to show how geeky I can get at times - or how I do know about the character and his history), so from this aspect, you know I can easily discern a lousy story of Cap if it were ever presented... and I can be this movie's worst critic if they give me reason.

However, the makers of this movie did not give me reason to criticize them. Oh, there were your usual revisions to streamline the story - after all, we're talking about nearly 60 years of stories - not to forget that these stories cover two time lines... but this movie did the wise thing to cover Cap's origin and his WWII exploits - thus getting into the meat of the hero - and ending with his waking up in the present. Mind you, this is not a review - so I've left a whole lot out.

Suffice it to say that they nailed it... this is a Captain America movie I am happy with - and although I would have wanted to see more 3D effects (specially with the shield in use), this is just a minor complaint, as I enjoyed watching this - heck I was even tempted to watch it a second time, had I been given the excuse. Instead, I await its DVD so I can definitely enjoy it again... and again... and again.

Day 113, Jul 30, 2011

Contrasting patterns:

On the right side, we've got the drab, dull, black wall with simple straight vertical lines.

On the left is a wallpaper - red colored, with some (and I'm hard pressed to describe it) wall-papery design - not showing any contrasting color to the red, thus making the red look quite solid, until you see the subtle patterns against the light.

It's because of these two differing wall designs - yet seemingly complimentary colors that I decided ot take this shot - then working with post-editing options available to me, I sharpened the photo - taking extra care not to blot out either pattern, and straighten the picture by lining up with the black wall's lines. So there you have it... patterns once again... and I sincerely doubt this will be my last pattern-inspired picture... heck, until the next pattern shows itself to my picture taking taste, then.

Day 112, Jul 29, 2011

Not earings... hehehe

Certainly not - although it might look that way from afar, that would only be because certain details may not be obvious. The stars are simply designs one can attach to an ear phone set (you know, the smaller version of a headphone).

Bryce got these in Fully Booked Greenhills I believe - as to what made him decide to get it, I may have some inkling, but I don't think speculating about it here may be proper. Lets just say that its not out of any certain fashion sense that I know of that caused Bryce to get these.

Be that as it may, the stars are no problem for me... as much as the head set is - specially when Bryce becomes too oblivious of his surroundings (specially when I'm truing to call his attention).

Day 111, Jul 28, 2011

Lamp:

This is a lamp cover (or shade) that I noticed in a restaurant, and since I'm always on the lookout for nice patterns to experiment with in taking pictures, this one obviously got my attention.

After all, its just a mundane lamp or light cover - but such is the lot of photographers - and I'd like to count myself as one of these people... so having spotted the pattern, I opted to take the shot.

I had to adjust the shot a bit to make sure there was no overexposure ot the picture - while maintaining the fact that the light would not overly expose the shot (and ruin the pattern I was trying to capture). Even then, I had to strengthen the contrast in post editing to better show said patterns.

Day 110, Jul 27, 2011

Bored:

That seems to be the body language Bernice is showing in this picture - and what exactly was happening when I took this pose? Okay, not a pose... just a shot, I don't think she'd pose at all with the way she was feeling when this shot was taken. But to answer the hanging question - we were about to have lunch... that is, Barbie, Bernice and I, and aside from the rudimentary answers to what she wanted to eat and all that, she was simply physically present, but it was obvious that her mind was elsewhere.

I guess the same could be said of me when I was a teen. My cousins would invite me to outings, and observe that I was actually miles away, even when with them. Its not that I did not appreciate their company - rather it was because I had other things I wished I was doing.

That said, I can't begrudge Bernice her moments, and even when I sometimes agree with Barbie regarding how frustrating it is to have some conversations with Bernice (and Bryce for that matter) these days, I will only make it ultimately worse if I force the issue of conversation, when she obviously is not in any mood. Nope... the best thing to do here is give her some space - leave her to her thoughts, and hope that when she's ready, she'll willingly talk. Such is the role of parents to teens - that and making sure they have been raised with the right values to serve as their moral compass. I do hope Barbie and I pass the test in both.

Day 109, Jul 26, 2011

Grilled Egg Plant Sandwich:

It goes by another name which I can't seem to recall at this time, but mind you, its good. In fact, I plan to make this my usual order should I happen ot stop at Xocolat, either in Greenhills or at the Fort.

Its also healthy - proof positive that not all veggie dishes taste bad, or that only the unhealthy food are the ones that taste good.

This dish is served with some potato chips and spicy dilis, and as I tried them in combinations, I have to admit that the tastes complement each one - heck, evne if you take them one at a time, they still taste great too. I will have to return to Xocolat to get this dish's proper name - that way, I can endorse it properly.

Day 108, Jul 25, 2011

Salad:

This type of thing is getting to be a staple for me whenever possible - either I take it for lunch or dinner (preferably the latter, as it allows me to have a light dinner before sleeping), and I shouldn't be complaining, after all, it is a healthy meal.

Thing is, it can be a bit costly - not to mention slightly monotonous, if I get to do this on a daily basis. SO I try to see if I can somehow put variety into these meals - maybe a different flavored dressing, like fruit flavored vinegrette (mango, raspberry and the likes), or just plain olive oil and some sparse vinegrette (not the fruity flavored ones) while adding some goat cheese. Yes, I try to change cheese too... edam, parmessan, chedar... the works. On another note, I will try to start taking oat meals in the evening too. You see, even when I somehow take less rice than before (specially at night) I still have not noticed any weight loss - not that I really am consciously pursuing this, but I thought if I'd eat less rice, Id get some kind of dramatic shrinkage. Ah well... guess its back to doing exercises, huh?

Day 107, Jul 24, 2011

Shake:

Its been ages since I've had this... I remember really enjoying milk shakes, except when they were too thick that I felt like gaining mumps just drinking them through the straw. My favorites would normally be either chocolate or vanilla.

All these memories come back in a flash, as I watch Bernice take her Strawberry shake (from Pancake House), and even Barbie was tempted to give it a taste. Me? I held out. After all, what is great to enjoy during one's childhood days may not be equally as great to have (even if the taste says otherwise) when one gets closer to being a senior citizen... not that I'm that close - mind you. I've still a decade before I'm officially recognized as such.

Anyway, going back to the shake - Bernice liked this one (no surprise here) and so did Barbie (again, not surprised), which led to our buying half a gallon of strawberry ice cream and milk, with the understanding that I would make some milkshakes at home (now, that was a surprise to me).

Day 106, Jul 23, 2011

Alex's 50th:

Yup, we held our latest gathering - which almost turned out to be a Bacardi night... except for the fact that we had wine (see bottle of white wine on the table?) instead of Bacardi - and what's more is we were prepared for a Bacardi night since we brought two bottles of Bacardi complete with the mixers.

No one bothered to mix the Mojitos, as we were all too busy playing catch up with each other. In point of fact, we were all too full to do some serious drinking. By the way, this was a surprise party for Alex as organized by Gina and Batchie (her name is also Alex, but it cna get confusing as to which Alex I might be refering to, so to avoid this, I will refer to Batchie, as Batchie... while Alex will be Alex. So yeah, I enjoyed - but not too much to go home too late. Nope, I had a Cinderella arrival from this party. Goes to show, I'm getting old for these events... but then again, so are most of the people that Gina invited.

Day 105, Jul 22, 2011

New Look:

I've been noticing a lot of McDonald's stores undergoing a revamp to say the least - just to name a few, the Greenhills shopping center area, the branch right beside DLSU, and the branch in Wilson. So I was wondering why this was so... I can understand one - maybe two; but more? How coincidental is that?

I got to read an article that explains all these - and apparently, there is a directive from the top to make these renovations. End result is a brighter, more space optimizing branch - as this 'The Fort' branch shows. Yup, Barbie and I chanced upon this branch, and decided to eat breakfast here.

Day 104, Jul 21, 2011

Chocolate Fire!

Its a chocolate focused restaurant wherein the main focus would be all the possible chocolates one could try - the difference? Well, they place chocolate in almost every type of dish... from the usual, to the unusual. Welcome to Chocolate Fire people... hope your taste buds enjoy the experience.

I've heard a lot about this from Barbie, and honestly speaking, we had no plans of going here - but, when I chanced upon fetching her in Makati (due to a dinner she had with some visiting foreign colleagues), I reminded her that since we were already in Makati, trying to brave the traffic in Salcedo village, I suggested we seek out this place... satisfy my curiosity as to where it was. Well, we did find it (after the second pass) and decided to park and try things out.

Chocolate Fire was a novel place - though don't expect a menu full of food... although they do have a few items, the place came across as more an after meals hang out area... where one can naturally try their different chocolate-dipped menu items. And just to prove a point, here we see Barbie getting ready to chew on a pringle potato chip - ans as the picture shows, half the chip is dipped in chocolate - then placed in a cold storage, to harden the chocolate.

Yeah, sometimes, these impromptu trips do turn out to be more enjoyable - and I can only guess that this is due to the fact that since it is impromptu - there are hardly any expectations to meet (or crush - I know... how Machiavellian a thought, right?).

Day 103, Jul 20, 2011

Repeat performance:

I know... I featured this kind of plant a few entries back - and I remember saying (or if you're technical about it - 'writing') that I noticed this particular plant in a lot of places - for some reason, it seems to be a favorite of hotels and restaurants.

Well, to prove a point, here it is again - and yes, this is an entirely different place from where I first set camera lens to said flower (or plant - you see, I'm not too convinced that this could be a flower). I'm sure the keen observer will likewise notice the darker reddish hue of this plant (not a Photoshop trick) compared to the previously featured one... not to mention the accompanying leaves - which I don't think are from this particular plant.

Anyway, I just wnated to prove my point - how this particular flower / plant seems to be a favorite. I would guess it's because of its color - and who knows? Maybe the fact that it has no smell might also add points to it being a purely ornamental plant - people who don't like the smell of flowers will not object to this plant in the room.

Truth be told, I had to touch this particular plant, because I had to convince myself that this was no plastic copy of the plant itself. I was glad to realize that this was indeed a genuine version (i.e. a real plant).

Day 102, Jul 19, 2011

Simulation:

It's show time... as this picture shows the simulation - which we were practicing the day before, being run. Notice the three projectors being used? This is to show our observers what exactly is happening in each PC (or laptop) so they can see how each participant's viewpoint will look like. It also hopes to give them a bird's eye view of what the issues handling process will look like.

I must say that the simulation went well - the officers got a better handle on what to expect, and they even got some comments / suggestions written down for us to consider. The simulation was likewise an eye-opener to them in terms of how certain transactions will be happening (i.e. no instant gratification in some situations... thus bringing to a more real level of expectation, what they will see in the Go Live date. If anything, this proves that the simulation was a success - and I won't be surprised if succeeding releases likewise adopt this practice (we were actually the first release to do this).

Day 101, Jul 18, 2011

Command Center:

This is the new Command Center - its where the Officers; both regional and local, will be hanging out once the project goes live on August 1.

Naturally, as part of making sure we are ready for that day, its not enough to see if the room's facilities are ready and working (I tested the aircon last Friday - just to make sure its not noisy any more), but that the people are equally ready for the task.

What are we doing in this room? Practicing for a Command Center / Intensive Care demonstration - specifically how handling issues will happen. This will be done for the benefit of the Directors / Project sponsors, so they will have an idea of what will be happening when the company's new system goes live. Naturally, I had to take a step back and freeze this moment for posterity's sake.

Day 100, Jul 17, 2011

Trek books - and the continuing adventures:

After the last Star Trek movie, I was seriously wondering about the franchise's rich history. Will all these now be thrown out the window? Will we now see a resurgence of Kirk re-do's? Will the further adventures now focus on this new alternate universe/timeline that we saw happen in the movie? It may seem so... so the likes of Picard et al will be in silver screen limbo. But how about the books?

As these two new novels point out - not a chance... the adventures continue and they are equally as adventurous if not more so all-encompassing in effect as the movies.

Case in point, the universe of the 23rd Century is is not as perfect as it seems - specially with the aftermath of  the Borg invasion. And in said aftermath, we have a weakened and shaken Federation... prefect timing it seems, to launch the Typhon Pact, wherein several species and areas, have decided to band together and flex their muscles vowing not to be under any Feredation resurgence - if anything, the opposite might even be true.

In this new Universal political maneuvering, we find the Federation's best and brightest as they react to this new situation... this new pact... and definitely, new threat. It is in this backdrop that I've bought these two new books. Whatever this may bring, I'm just glad I've more current Trek stories to read.

Day 99, Jul 16, 2011

Lessons:

I spied this little class as I was using my zoom lens at the Starbucks by the (Manila) Bay. As you can see, this is a Dragon boat - like the one I posted some months back.

Apparently, there are some people that take these lessons as a form of cheap exercise - you just need to buy your own oar... that 's it. The boats are here and I just don't know the arrangement for getting a group of people together. Anyway, I can imagine the rowing instructor telling them what the proper way of holding and using the oar is. Later, they'll do a slow paced trip - just like the other boat at their background. I doubt they'll do a round of quick paced, racing style, rowing... but who knows? I really did nto stick around to watch them, as I decided to enjoy my Starbucks coffee drink and read a few things I brought with me.

Day 98, Jul 15, 2011

Cerveza?

Not really... it's iced tea - though in this instance, you'll probably not really see the ice with all those frothing at he top of the mug, but yeah... it does look like beer at a quick glance.

I can only imagine how that froth came about - maybe they used a blender or ostirizer to get said froth - but yeah... this drink has no alcohol - in fact the deadly part of this is probably its sugar (at least, for diabetics).

So yeah, its not your usual, run of the mill, normal looking iced tea - and form afar it could look like I was drinking beer - and can even have the beer mustache to prove it... alas, as I said at the start, this is not an alcoholic beverage. But that's all right - after all, I do love drinking iced-tea. In fact I believe at this juncture, I ordered the bottomless version - meaning the refillable  option.

Beer drinkers might say that this is obviously not beer, and they would be right (for the most part) as beer has a more golden hue than this one. Then again, the Cerveza Negra, as one local product would present itself, has darker hues as well... almost a malty colored beer - that type will obviously be a whole lot darker than yoru typical beer... and it may be darker than the one in the picture as well.

Day 97, Jul 14, 2011

My aquarium:

I believe that this is not the first time I've shown this aquarium - although my presenting this has, in the past, been more about focusing on certain fishes (or shrimps) and not about the aquarium itself.

It may not be visible, but this is an octagonal aquarium and I think I've had this particular item for close to 3 years now - maybe more, even. As in the past, I've always tried to get this aquarium to be a contained environment where my fishes could live and possibly even breed.

On the latter part, I'm still working on that for my fishes, but my shrimps seem to be thriving - and the secret is to have (it seems) a relatively thick foliage of greens - in this case, you can see how this is hinted on the upper portion of this aquarium... and believe you me, it gets a whole lot thicker until it becomes a tangled web on the top. This is where my shrimps go forth to multiply - and to think this only happened due to one plant that spread out.

Clue to the fact that my fishes are healthy or happy? Check my Rummy Nosed Tetras - if their heads are red, then they're happy... and this picture shows a pair of them. Now... aside from the fact that my shrimps are thriving and my fishes are happy, this aquarium serves as a live theater for me to just sit down and watch... and yes - de-stress myself from the day's many work-induced worries.

One other thing - I have, of late, been focusing more on my camera's manual setting - it's come to the point that I hardly use the programmed function, nor the automatic function. I guess I'm finally getting a feel for my camera, huh?

Day 96, Jul 13, 2011

Beds:

Yup, these are all inflatable beds - either laid out or stacked up, just waiting for the possibility of their being needed... and used by project members.

As a plan for the possible need of project members to stay on late at night in the project area, the Cutover team had thought of these beds specifically for the members to sleep in, should the need for them to say real late (and possibly even overnight) arise. I heard that this idea is unique, as previous releases (i.e. other countries) just relied on people crashing on the office couch, so in that sense, the Philippine U2K2 team is luckier.

As of this time, the need has not yet arisen, but that doesn't mean it won't  - after all, previous project experiences dictate the great possibility of such actions being needed. On a personal note, I don't think I;ll be needing this - nor will I be needed to stay this late. Besides, I can always drive home - which isn't too far prom the project site anyway.

Day 95, Jul 12, 2011

Lunch:

Yes, the proverbial staple food - and I say this because chicken happens to be the safest food to serve in any occasion. Some people don't eat beef - others are prevented from taking pork due ot religious beliefs (though it has health benefits to not take them too), and as for sea food... well, some people have allergies, albeit more on the shellfish or crustacean side... so chicken becomes the usual staple for most (except for vegans, that is).

Me? I don't have these hang ups - though I do concentrate on fish and chicken as my usual staple - and veggies whenever I cna have them too... all for better health, of course... and when it comes to chicken, the best tasting (though not as healthy) is of course the traditional fried variety (roasted comes a close second to me). Be it Kentucky, Jolibee, Max's ( a favorite) or as in this case, Rack's... fried chicken is my 'not bother thinking' choice for lunch food.

Bon appetit!

Day 94, Jul 11, 2011

Sigma book:

I know, the title is not Sigma, but the book is all about some characters I've been following for quite some time now... namely Gray Pierce, Painter Crowe and company. Simply put this is the fourth... maybe fifth book about these characters - and what makes this exciting is the fact that each Sigma Force adventure is a mix of old world mysteries - with new (or neo) science mixed into the brew.

I decided to get this book without batting an eyelash, and am really glad I was able to find myself a copy (of course, later it wasn't as if the copies would be sold out or anything, but I did not want to risk having to wait a long time before I got a copy of this book and started to read the adventures of Crowe and company.

This particular book's mystery seems connected or intertwined with the American history (from the time of Thomas Jefferson), and how certain secrets long dormant, are suddenly activated - to the world's chagrin. Yup... if its a James Rollins book - and most especially, a Sigma Force book, it will automatically mean that the story will involve fast paced, high octane adventure. Heck, I'm sorely tempted to drop the book I am currently reading in favor of picking this one up and starting to enjoy it's pages... but noooo... I should have- and do have better self control regarding that.