RocknRolla

You see that pack of Marlboro killing sticks on the end of the piano?

All you need to know about life is retained within those four walls. You will notice that one of your personalities is seduced by the illusions of grandeur - the gold packet of king size with a regal insignia, an attractive implication towards glamor and wealth; the subtle suggestion that cigarettes are indeed your royal and loyal friends, and that, is a lie.

Your other personality is trying to draw your attention to the flip side of the discussion, written in boring bold black and white, it's a statement that these neat little soldiers of death are, in fact, trying to kill you and that, is the truth.

Oh, beauty is a beguiling call to death and I'm addicted to the sweet pitch of its siren. That that starts sweet ends bitter, and that which starts bitter ends sweet. That is why you and I love the drugs and that is also why I cannot give that painting back. Now please, pass me a light.

Back to Normal

I just had more than a week vacay because of Eid al-Adha, whatever that means. During that break I've enjoyed attending concerts for free at the Ferrari events. It's really good when you know someone from the major sponsors. hehe.. However, my holiday was ruined as I acquired some usual cough and colds. I stayed home for like 3 or 4 days, just like a pig, doing nothing except from sleeping, surfing the net and watching rom-com or new released movies. Yeah yeah, am boring I know but what can I do? Aside from being sick, am totally broke. hahaha..

Tomorrow, we're back to reality and there's nothing I can do about that. Am pretty excited though as I haven't seen my new friends for a week. I'm gonna make my ears ready, I bet there are lots of crazy funny stories to hear.

Ciao!

Mom's 61st

This is the first time that Mom's gonna celebrate her birthday without me. It's sad I know but hey, isn't it amazing when you feel you've been missed by the people you love and care for? Yeah am not making any sense here again, my emotion's starting to rise up and down again. :P

Anyway, I've asked one of my closest friends to surprise Mom with a cake. Come on, am out of budget and it's the only thing I can give. It's the thought that counts, isn't it? So, my friend, Keti, bought a huge one at Conti's and delivered it straight at home. We sang her a birthday song (me on Skype of course!) and she blew the candle.

taken from Skype

I guess Mom was pretty happy then. Happy birthday again Ma, I love you to bits.

If you could wake up as anyone tomorrow, who would it be?

Mother Mary.

Ask me anything

What's the weirdest thing you've ever eaten?

fried frogs and seaweeds.

Ask me anything

Unusual Power Nap

As usual, another boring day at our crib here in sandpit. A friend of ours, Wei Yan, called and wanted to come over for a little drink. Yeah, just a little drink. :P There's nothing much to do, so I guess we don't have any choice. hehe.. We waited for hours until I realised that I have fallen asleep. Funny thing is, one of my housemates reenacted the position on how the way I sleep. I was like halfway lying down with my tummy on the couch PLUS feet up. Imagine that. haha.. All right, enough of this shit.

Vodka and grenadine time!

Straight Lines

Waking up this morning ain't that good. I feel so emotional that I want to never wake up anymore. People have their own problems I know but bear with me, I just want to blurt whatever I want to blurt out. I fucking hate and love my life. Illogical as it seems but today, that's what I endure. I hated leaving home. I hated where I am right now. But the thing that I hate most is being in a situation that you think you're good at, that someone.. that special someone is so proud of you but is totally not.

All my life, all I ever wanted is to make myself good enough for you. I studied hard, graduated and currently have a good job. I've always been looking for straight lines though I know life's not like that, never been like that. It's so hard to hate you and I can never hate you. I just hope you'll love me the way I am giving my love to you.

Enough of this shit. I think I just needed a bath. Been on my bed since this AM. Promise me I didn't scare you. Now, I'm off to shower room.

Dear Papa Jesus

Awhile ago, I talked to Xioms through Skype. Actually, we've been doing this every week since I left home just to catch up on things. My mom told me how lazy Xiomai nowadays. She don't want to go to school anymore. Well, it's normal and btw, she just turned 3 last July. I was thinking... I mean I told mom to enroll her in ballet class instead. Kiddo was super excited when she heard that and that's a good thing!

Anyway, when Xioms and I were chatting, I asked her if she still reads her books. She said no because I'm now here. Okay, good point because we usually do that but I told her that she should continue reading her books. And then I asked if she's praying before going to bed. Here's her reply:

"Yes Mama." Then she recited.. "In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy, Spirit, Amen. Dear Papa Jesus, bless me as I am about to sleep. I love you Papa Jesus. Sweet dreams. Papa Jesus, Jun Pyo is my crush. In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy, Spirit, Amen."

My jaw dropped, literally.

Eid Experience

If you ask Google, it'll tell you that Eid ul-Fitr is a three-day Muslim holiday. I'm not a Muslim, hell no but since am currently working in a Muslim country, I have the privilege to enjoy this kind of holiday. Anyway, me and my hommies decided to go to Fujairah which is one of the seven emirates of UAE. Twas a four-hour drive from Abu Dhabi and I tell you, it's worth it. Lots of amazing sceneries out there. It's more of a nature tripping I must say.

We booked a night stay in Al Diar Siji Hotel and we had a beautiful view of the sea from our room. How cool is that? Well, we never enjoyed the beach to be quite honest as it was jam-packed! So we filled our entire time road tripping, not to mention climbing a rock mountain for photo opp.

postcard

the rock

So there. Not bad for my first ever Eid holiday in Sandpit.

PS Thank you my lovely friends. You all never fail to keep me company: Yatz, Chie, Kathe, Dantley and Pat.

Acts of Evil

Don't be a hypocrite! Am sure all of us have done some evilness once in our lives. Big or small, it's the same. It shows that none of us is perfect.

As promised, I'll tell everything about what happened on my roller coaster journey here at sandpit. So here goes.

The moment I came back to the Philippines was like a hell. Don't get me wrong. The word hell here is only in relation to my documents. I never thought that I'll be able to enter UAE again and have this job, but I'm a lady with full of hopes in life. Money matters, that I won't lie. Sad to say but it's true that money is power. Anyway, I endure more than a month, as a jobless ass in Manila. There was a point that I am giving up and planning to be in my home country for good. You see, all my papers were authentic and okay though my contract lacks attestation from our own labor office in Abu Dhabi. I've elaborated everything about this in Episode 6.

Good news is, there's someone in Abu Dhabi University (ADU) who knows someone in the Philippines who can help me. I call this person, the mogul. My colleague told me to contact this mogul as soon as I arrive Manila and tell everything about my case. He sounds like a very powerful man, I thought. So, I contacted this mogul and discuss things. Things that you can only see in movies. Anyway, the main point is me leaving the Philippines with fake and original docs. Fake ones for the PHI Immigration and originals for AUH Immigration. So, how much? I have to say, a lot of cash. If you insist, throw me a mail and I'll elaborate further.

My first meeting with mogul was quite scary and full of skepticism. I just thought this is the only way and I really need to gamble. I never got the mogul's full name, where he lives, what 's his job and so on. I went home with nothing but trust in my pocket.

One day before my departure is our second meeting. This is the schedule he gave me for my PDOS. He gave me my referral form, there I saw that I've got an agency in Manila and my employer in Abu Dhabi is different. I tried searching for it in Google and found out it doesn't really exist. So I attended the half day boring seminar just to have my certificate.

On the departure day itself, I arrived NAIA earlier than expected, as I've said. This is my third and last meeting with the mogul. We had some short briefing then he gave me my papers. I was never surprised on how good Filipinos in forgery. What sickened me is the idea of passing through the whole airport process. But of course, twas a success. Unbelievably no sweat! It's why I'm here sharing you this story. One thing I remember the mogul used to tell me: All persons working at NAIA airport have their own tag price in their heads. TRUE, with my own experience.

Moral lesson? I couldn't think of any good so far but this I tell you, never ever exit in the Philippines if you're planning to work abroad. Our government sucks from head to toe and for that, I am not a proud Filipino.

First Pay in Sandpit

I received my first ever salary from ADU yesterday. My emotion's neither happy or sad about it. Sheesh, if you only knew the whole story behind this check... but still, am thankful. Hayy, this will just slip by my hands. Why? I haven't paid rent for 2 months. Tsk. Now, all I'm wanting is for September to end.

check

Wish me luck for this new whole month. Ayayay!

Episode 11

Today, I received my residence visa. Woohoo! After all those nerve-racking experiences that happened, I can finally be at ease. Who would ever thought that I'll be an official OFW? Haha.. Anyhoo, I prolly should end my episodes. Yes?

Super thank you Lord for all the blessings. I never expected anything BIG like this would happen.

Cheers!

Episode 10

You're prolly wondering what happened next in the series of my episodes. Well, I'm now here at sandpit, for almost a week. Getting back here seemed like a roller coaster you know but am glad all ended so well.

August 14-15: The date of my departure. I arrived NAIA airport by 8:30pm though the plane will depart the next day, 1:15am. I'm thinking, I'd better be early.. it's Friday and it's payday. I don't want to lose my temper on traffic, not that early. I'm saving it at the airport. :D So, I waited there for like more than 2 hours. I can't check in my baggage as my "very important papers" are still not on hand. Past 10 in the evening when the mogul arrived, panting, he gave me my papers and instruct me what to do. Enough with the details... in short, I passed through our airport though this time, it was all smooth and easy. Up until now, I wonder how come? Weniwei, I arrived Abu Dhabi earlier than expected.

August 16: First day at Abu Dhabi University (ADU)... officially. All went okay.. my boss was happy that I'm finally back.

August 18: Had some medical procedure like eye scan, xray and blood test.

Now, am waiting for the result of the medical exam so ADU can apply my residence visa and labor card. Hmmm.. I guess that's about it. More senseless episodes in the next few days. :)

4,343 miles...

...away from home now. I'm starting to miss EVERYTHING. From bogart, our hideous dog, to the red paint of our outer home; my bed and our forever messy living room; the unusual scent of my bedroom due to my old books and Xioms'  as well, all lying on my dusty floor; our literally dirty kitchen and my favorite spot whenever I want to lit my Marl; Mom's delicacies even if it's just sardines; my weird sisters, Achi and Taza; my one and only crazy Mom; my loving niece, Nicole; my close friends and most especially, my baby Xiomai.

Now, I think I need some rest.

Episode 9

Twas more than a week and I thought I won't be receiving any good feedback from the mogul. I tried texting and asking him for favorable results but it turned out am ranting again. He specifically said that I should be relaxed and that I should wait and be patient. For goodness' sake, my flight is almost near like tomorrow, I need to be present at the airport. Fuck you man! My left eye never failed twitching since the day I learned that I needed to rebook my flight. Mom said it was because am super stressed. Puhleeeaasseee... I don't want to throw another $100 for this.

Midnight when I received a text from the mogul that I'll be having my PDOS the next day at around 8am. Oh crap. I should've took a power nap awhile ago.

Anyway, I woke up early this morning, attended PDOS and yeah, went home writing this shit while waiting for the time. Tonight's gonna be my flight back to Abu Dhabi. If there's a term for that feeling of agonising-stressed-pseudo-excited freak, tell me.. because that's what I am experiencing right now.

So, one last step... then I'll be able to put an end to the idea of pissing in my pants. D'oh!

Episode 8

I don't actually know when will these episodes end. So here goes...

Yesterday, I am expecting a call from the mogul for my pre-departure seminar but to my surprise, I just received a text from him around late afternoon stating that we're having a big problem. The problem was I have to miss my flight tomorrow. Why? My papers didn't come out that day, that the system is fucking down and it will be released on Monday. Frantically, I contacted my superior in Abu Dhabi, told her what's going on and asked her to have my flight rebooked. I didn't realised that twas weekend there and all offices were closed. In short, she can't be of any help. In fairness, she tried but still no use. Nobody's been answering her calls there. I am completely in rage with the mogul at that very moment. As much as I want to curse him or break his nose, I can't or else I'll really be in deep shit! Damn it... this is not the way we planned. He told me that I will fly on the 8th. But what to do? To ease the anger, I just thought that this has got to have a reason. Maybe Lord just didn't want me to be on that plane. So be it.

Today when I woke up, I still haven't got any feedback from Abu Dhabi re my flight tomorrow morning. So I figured to make my flight rebooked by me self. I called the Etihad office here in Manila and asked if there's anyway that they can rebook my flight schedule. Luckily, there is but the thing is, it'll be on Monday next week PLUS I have to pay 100 USD for that process. FUUUCKKKK that! So before I could actually say yes, I told the operator if I can call back again (as I need to have it finalised first with the stupid money-sucking mogul). I immediately phoned the mogul and asked if the early Monday flight next week is feasible. He said yes, so I did have it rebooked. I just hope there won't be anymore problems after this. My goodness, 100 USD is no joke! It'll be shouldered by moi! This should work smoothly by now.

I have never been sooo tired and stressed in my whole life until today. Hayyy LIFE is really full of shit. I don't care if it's too early but I need to drown myself with beer!

Episode 7

Yesterday, I got an unexpected news.. that I'll be flying back to AUH very soon. My flight booking is confirmed and since then my butt's been panicking.

To tell you honestly, my problem in Episode 6 hasn't been resolved yet but I am confident that everything's gonna work out the way I planned. Plan A or B may be marked X but I still got 24 letters left in the alphabet, right? Hehe.. Anyway, I went out this morning to meet with this mogul who's gonna make my plans work. I just can't digest our "law" and left myself hanging on to nothing. Sometimes, we indulge ourselves to do some acts of evil in order to reach our goals. Now then, nuff of this shitty story and give me some support. I will, in no time, tell you all about these craziness when things are accomplished. Promise.

It's another day again, I better be sleeping now.


xo

27th

They say, old age begins at 27 and today's my 27th birthday. Crap.

How do I feel about my age? Why is it a bit of a mindfuck? I think that part is due to my culture telling me it is significant. But let’s play along. How do I feel about where I am so far in my life (something I consider far more often than every year or 10 anyway)?

Answer: Generally satisfied. Old but generally satisfied.

So as I turned 27, I’d like to offer a toast: here’s to not giving a shit about our age and dismissing the social perceptions, by appreciating what we have regardless of where we are in life, and by growing and accelerating the whole way. I can deal with that.

PS Thanks again Mom for your lunch and coffee treat earlier. I love you to bits.


xo

Episode 6

I received my employment visa yesterday and there are only two words that burst out of my mouth. YES and FUCK.

YES, as I am seeing things more clearer now. I finally have a job.. a real one after like forever. This visa thing is one of the important things in my life lately. I can say that this is the step 2 of my overall venture.

Now FUCK, because it's been only less than 3 weeks. I could've exited in some near country and prolly be back to sandpit undisturbed in no time! Geez!

Anyway, this episode starts right here...

Since I already got my visa, I pantingly went to POEA this morning.. early morning... very early morning. I'm quite positive that I can finish everything up in a day but luck wasn't with me at all. Imagine: I woke up by 4am, skipped bfast, took a very cold shower.. at first, it's nothing because when I got to the POEA office I am 5th in the line but in the end, I went home with nothing. How cruel is that?

POEA is and should be opened by 8 in the morning but what else to expect? This is a government sector... in short, when I was there, twas quarter to 9 when they started opening their windows. In fairness to them, all the docs that you'll be needing to submit is posted in every walls. So I advice you to use your eyes instead of your mouth. But I need to press on one important matter. Yeah, you posted the requirements that every applicants should submit but please BE PRECISE. I haven't found in any of your postings at your office and even in your website that you guys require a POLO (Philippine Overseas Labor Office) verified contract. I mean come on! You're exactly aware that not all applicants came from an agency or some sort. It's as if this verification could be done in just a snap.

Back to the episode...

When it's my turn to submit my documents, this asshole checked on my papers and then returned it to me. Having a contract with no verification, he just told me "Have your contract verified and when it's done, go back here." As easy as that. This moron never realized if I came from Timbuktu or what. Compare our small talk in less than 5 minutes to the hours I spent waiting outside. And what's worst, the verification thing should be done in POLO of the country to where you're hired to work. I ain't finish yet. In order to have your contract verified, there are loads of requirements that you need to your employer needs to submit as well.. including your original visa. So to make the story short again, I have to mail my original visa back to my employer so they can start on processing this fucking verification of my contract. Kill me now will you please?

The imbecile in the counter didn't hear anything from me as I turned my back on him though I want to break every inch of his bones or maybe start an amok. Instead, I started smoking and walking non-stop in the heat of the sun. I stopped when I saw I was in Shangrila Edsa already. So there, I just went home totally bruised inside. Now, I am starting to think that I hate being a Filipino.

Hayyyyy.. life sucks awesomely!

Munchkin's 3rd

July 9, 2007 is the best date ever of my entire life. Twas when I gave birth to Xioms - my most precious possession.

making a wish

Lord knows how absolutely grateful I am standing right beside my daughter on her special day. Time really flies sooo fast! My munchkin is now 3. If I can only wish that she'll be 3 years old forever. Hayyy..

Happy happy birthday kiddo! Always remember that Mama loves you to bits.

PS Thanks Ninang Keti for the yummy Icing's cake!

Daily Routine

As I've decided to relocate, I prepared myself of the consequences that I might embrace but the least I thought of or should I say, I never thought of is the daily routine that I would be facing.

In Abu Dhabi, I am living with my 4 or 6 mates in a flat. You prolly wonder why I said 4 or 6. Originally, we are 5 at home but one friend is out as of the moment because her family just arrived from the Philippines so she preferred staying at her sister's flat, a more convenient place I dare say. Another friend used to stay with us though it was only during weekends, he has his own accommodation near his office. So to make things clearer, we are 4 in the house right now.

Flats here in UAE is no joke. The best example is ours. Apart from its valuable price, it doesn't have an attached bathroom. You see, in a building there were different floors, right? Each floor contains 2 or 3 main doors. As you enter the main door, there were about 3 more doors. These doors are called flats. One master room which includes its own bathroom; one cafe which practically can occupy up to 10 heads; and one bedroom which can occupy 3 or 4 heads. These three doors inside that main door I was telling you shares the same kitchen and if you're lucky enough, the common room which in our case, we don't own. What else... Ahhh... how could I ever forget the shared bathroom of the cafe room and the bed room.

Since I am a newbie in this flat hell, I don't have the right to pick what time should I take a bath. Yes, you heard read it right! Taking a bath is scheduled. Mine was 4:30am and what made this irritating is that my office hours is from 9am to 6pm. So, I will be picked up by my service at around 8am. Come to think of it, by 5am I'm all cleaned up though I have to wait until 8am for my service to arrive. Imagine the wasted hours just because of that stupid shared bathroom! I could still add it up on my sleeping hours for goodness' sake!

This is the reason why we pushed ourselves to find a new flat with attached bathroom. Luckily, we found one though its price is much higher. Oh anyway, we got the largest room plus we finally have our own bathroom AND balcony is a jackpot! =)

Well, bathroom is not the only hassle of my life in Abu Dhabi. My trip to and from office was hell as the shared bathroom. Home to work is like a 30 to 45-minute drive not including the nerve-wrecking traffic. My service is a long van. It picks up/drops 10 people everyday. My place is the first pick up point so that means I am the last drop. I usually got home 8pm the latest.

So to summarise, I wake up 4:30am just to take a bath.. and I'll be home by 8pm from work. Security guards are in no match with my fucking schedule. Btw, this routine lasted for two weeks only. Thank God we transferred to our new home. Wake up call was changed to 7am and bathroom was all mine by then.


Hayyyy... life in UAE.

Torn Between Two Emotions

Got my flight ticket already and will be leaving tomorrow.

I still can't help but to think about the POEA shittiness. I cannot believe why Philippines can't just be the same with other countries. It's not that I don't want to go home but you see, if in case I will be exiting in some near countries, immigration there won't ask anything except for your passport and visa. In Philippines, good luck! Hayyy Pilipinas!!

On the contrary, one of the reasons why I want to come home is Xiomai. Part of me is thrilled to death because I'll be able to catch her 3rd birthday. Though I'll be coming home with no presents. I know that Xioms would not mind. She's just a kid for goodness' sake! And I'm pretty sure that it's no biggie with my family as well.

So, see you Pinas and until we meet again Abu Dhabi!


x

Episode 5: Bump in the Way

I am having a problem.

I actually don't know what to feel when HR told me I need to exit to the Philippines. Part of me felt happy and excited as I will have this chance to be with my family AND I will be home on Xioms' 3rd birthday. On the contrary, I don't want to go home. Aside from the fact that I don't have any return ticket, which is by the way will be shouldered by moi, I am thinking of the expenses and the process in POEA. Fuck our government!

HR told me that they don't want me to stay in a near country because they don't actually know when will my papers from the Ministry of Higher Education be released. They just estimated 7 to 8 weeks max, including the processing of my employment/residence visa. This is the reason why they always advice their employees to exit to their home countries. Also, the reason why I needed to exit is that I have used up my 2 months stay in UAE as a tourist. Having no employment visa yet and as what their law states, I need to be out of sandpit for at least 30 days before I could enter their country again unless otherwise the company have issued me an employment visa.

The thing is, our HR is not aware of our POEA's stupid processing. I've been reading the POEA website all day everyday and as to what I learned, I am called - Name Hired. It means that I've never been into any agencies and I am hired directly by the company. Stating this, when I come home to the Philippines and then go back to UAE, I will be needing some important documents for the Immigration to let me pass. Aside from that, I need to go to POEA to be a member and pay some a lot of cash and attend to the so called PDOS before our government could actually permit me to work abroad. Full of BS, right? This is the main reason why I don't want to go home!

But what else can I do? I don't want to go to Iran or Oman and stay there for like a month or so. I was thinking I have no choice but to go home. Besides, the university will shoulder my air ticket going back here in sandpit. Now, the only thing I would ask HR is to give me all those requirements that I will present to Philippine Immigration then I'll book my flight home. Fuck, I only got 7 days left!

Best Second Day Ever!

I just came home from work and I thought of sharing what happened on my second day at work.

For the record, this day's the best day of my life (so far) here in Abu Dhabi. First day sucks to tell you honestly but this day made me feel am back in the game. The very early wake up call and looooong drive from and to work was all worth it. Here, I feel so belong. They made me feel I am NOW part of the family even though we're like united colors of benetton. =)

I had the chance to meet most of the faculty members. From big bosses to professors to staff. They are all very friendly and nice. I happen to have the nicest boss in all departments -- well, that's what everybody's saying. So all the tedious and literally hard filing of paperwork became chicken shit. Haha.

Anyway, have I told you about my daily routine? I guess I'd better create a new blog for that. I don't want to ruin the bliss am feeling right now.

Am out!


x

Episode 4

A week has already passed and I still haven't received any phone calls from the job am waiting for. I'm getting paranoid each day though am still attending some job interviews from other companies. I can't waste my time you know, I only have 3 weeks left before my visa expires! This is where the saying time is precious comes in, oh sooo precious!

My friends keep on telling me that all I needed to do is to be patient and wait but it feels like I'm waiting for nothing. The only thing that I'm holding on to that freaking job is that lady's words. And what's really funny is that those words are just verbal and came out from a phone. Ridiculous!

After the long wait, a week and four days to be exact, they finally called. They wanted me to start immediately, meaning I need to report for work though am still holding a tourist visa. For me, that's totally fine since I've been bored to death for almost two months AND of course, as long as they're gonna process my papers legally fast! The universe is on my side that day. Everything turned out to be almost perfect. I received and signed the offer letter, had a little chat with HR regarding all the stuff that we need to accomplish and met with some of my new united colors of benetton colleagues. Haha!

I think I am the happiest earthling in the world right at that moment. So, I better be going. I need to take a bath as it's my first day at work today and I don't want to be late. Wish me luck!


TBC.

Episode 3: The Day

I thought that that was just an ordinary boring day but it turned out to be "THE DAY".

I was in a grocery store when my mobile rang. T'was a call from a company which I applied a month ago. I was asked if he can interview me right then and there. I was skeptical at first but hey, what am I thinking? In the end I was interviewed. There was this question about the company that I thought I messed up but I was surprised when he called again the other day inviting me for a panel interview in Abu Dhabi the day after tomorrow. I asked if he can give me the exact location of their office and he said that he'll email it to me after we're done talking.

The day has passed, still no email received from this company. The very next day, I checked on my mailbox and found zero again. I begin to think they've changed their minds so I just accepted the fact that the job wasn't really for me.

The interview date came and am still lying on the bed doing nothing when suddenly my mobile rang. It was somebody else from that same company and was asking me if I have plans on going for an interview. I was like confused and told the lady that I haven't received any email from them. She quickly asked if I'm still interested and if I can come within the day. T'was almost lunch time and my scheduled interview is 10am. I told her that I'm still in Dubai and she responded that they're open until 6pm. So I just said yes to finish the convo. I checked my mail again and that's when I found out how stupid I am. The instructions and location map was in my spam folder. Fuck! Why the heck I never thought of that?! Anyway, I rush to the bathroom and took a bath. I was thinking I can make it by 3pm or 4pm. For your info, Abu Dhabi is a 2-hour drive from Dubai. Fuck me!

I finally arrived after 2 or 3 hours. Imagine a hungry bitch (I haven't taken any breakfast or lunch) with raddled face -- yep, that was me! Finally, the receptionist called my attention and asked me to follow her. As I entered the room, there were 3 persons waiting. They're my interviewers I suppose? An Arab, maybe a Malaysian and a Filipino. Lots of questions were thrown and I think I've been inside that room for 30 minutes. After, the Filipino told me to wait for a while as I'll be having one more round of interview. Gawd, my stomach was really in a revolution! I could eat up a whole chicken in 10 seconds!

When we got to another room, the Filipino girl informally interviewed me. She told me every little thing to expect on this job and of course, just to impress her, I kept on saying "I can do the job." You know, I have this new motto when I arrived UAE. Always intellectually say yes and never say no. I do believe that everything in this world can be learned. Don't you think?

After some time, I finally met my last interviewer. It was the Dean of the department that I'll be in IF in case I got hired. He was so warm and nice. The interview wasn't an interview at all. He just told me stuff that they're doing within their department. He actually praised my CV. Then it all ended there. Would you believe if I told you that I got lost on my way out? I didn't know that I was inside the actual university not a company! I just thought it was an office where they recruit employees. Boy, it was really a big confusing school! I suddenly recalled my college days.

Anyhoo, as my tummy's rumbling, all am thinking at that very moment is where to eat. I am sooo tired when I got to this Al Wahda Mall near the bus station. I immediately looked for a food chain and saw Popeye's. I had 3 big fried chickens, a muffin, some fries and a coke. YUMMM! While eating, my mobile rang. It was the Filipino girl from the company where I just had my interview. The first lines were like, "So, are you really ready for a challenge?" I was like, "Uhm, yes?" Then she told me that it was me that they want, she mentioned the salary package plus benefits and so many things that I could not remember anymore. Damn! That was so fat! Tears just came out of my eyes when I heard that. I just can't believe this is happening plus all the mistakes and hassles I've been through that day. I think "Okay" was the only word I have said. She made sure that the HR will call me the following week. So I went home feeling happy with full of hope. My dreams are becoming clearer now... I guess.

One thing I've learned from this journey: Life's challenges are not supposed to paralyze you, they're supposed to help you discover who you are.


Until my next senseless episode. Am out!

x

Epidose 2

I can definitely say that these past days and weeks are the most boring days and weeks of my life. Sure am going here and there to have some fun but you see, this is my first time of being a huge ass bum since I graduated from college. I'm not into it and this is sooo not me! I always thought that this would be easy, just a piece of cake. Well, reality check, it's not! Fucking depressing!

There was this huge construction company that I really like to work for, problem is, they can't raise the salary. Come on, I shouldn't have left my previous job if this is the only thing here! Deadline's until next week for me to decide and it's a no-brainer. I mean, HELL NO!

Anyway, have I told you that I'm like a ping pong ball? Been travelling Dubai and Abu Dhabi back and forth for some interviews. I personally love Abu Dhabi. Why? Because I think there's less temptation there. It's more of a relaxed and laid back type of place to live in. Dubai has loads of beautiful places to go and hangout to, no doubt about that, but if you think about it, it's more of an outflow of money. Not good.

Hayyyy... life in UAE. I wish to have some more action rather than just sitting here at home gaining weight and doing nothing. Ugh! Speaking of weight, got to go to the gym and do some cardio. So, toodles!

x

Episode 1

It's been a long time since I last posted. Been busy searching for the right path you know. This past month was like a roller coaster ride. There are times that I wanted to blog but there's really nothing special to write or share about. I have also been moody these days. Still anxiously waiting and trying my luck to find a decent job. Sometimes I feel like I am about to break but day by day, I am learning to embrace everything that is thrown at me.

It's hard to leave everything back home but it's a choice, my choice. I personally love challenges and I guess, this is one of the biggest that I have to fight for or at least to prove to myself I am worthy of this choice. Sounds corny eh? But what can I say? It's true. I believe that one day, I can tell myself "I've done almost everything I wanted to do and so I am now ready to die." Well, actually not. Haha.

Now, am still here in a beautiful yet very hot place called Dubai. If I will say UAE, I don't think my limited readers would relate. Everyone thought of Dubai as a country and if you are one, you're dead wrong. Dubai is just one of the seven Emirates that makes UAE a country. Anyway, I've been here for a month and a half now. And yes, my skin's now dry, got blisters on my lower lip and hair fall never ends. But it's okay, I still like UAE.

For the past month, I've been into numerous interviews: one-on-one, telephone, panel, name it! But I haven't seen the job that I really want. I have some concerns most of the time regarding the salary package, the contract and even the boss itself. If I could just elaborate my experience with a local here, I would but I don't want to waste my brain thinking of that event in my life. Let's just say, there's one particular moment that made me more stronger and wiser.

You might or might not be curious but I have two good reasons why I landed here: JOB and TAX. I heard some stories that it's so easy to get a job here. Like when you snap your finger, job's right there. This may be true and really false. True for those idiots who will grab anything just to say "they have a job" and false for those who act, think and choose the right one according to their area of expertise and of course experience. You see, there are loads of jobs here but the question is, is it the right/best one for you? In terms of tax, I assume we are all aware that this is a tax-free country, right? Need I say more?

Anyhoo, a month or so has passed and still, I am a loser jobless bitch. I can't even sleep at night and my self esteem is decreasing almost everyday. I sometimes ask myself, did I just throw everything that's already in my hands? You know, I am just so lucky being surrounded by beautiful people. They're the ones who make sure I keep my sanity. 

So, I'm now running out. More senseless stories in a few days or maybe weeks. Wish me luck on my job hunting!

x

Sandpit

I've been here in Dubai for a week now and still have no luck in finding a good job. There are some, yes, but the offer isn't that worth it you know. My friends keep on telling me that that's the way it is. If you want a really nice job, you have to wait. So I'm anxiously waiting and hoping and wishing.

Anyway, t'was my first time visiting this country and let me tell you about some of my experiences so far. I arrived here last April 28 and I've been to numerous places -- Sharjah, Deira, Karama, Sheikh Zayed and so on. I am good at finding specific location but here, I'm not. Buildings or establishments here aren't the same in the Philippines. I couldn't even figure out whether it's a hospital, a school, a villa, an office, a mall or whatever. Also, Dubai has long, wide roads so you won't see any traffic jams anywhere.

My first week here is quite boring but happy at times. Boring when my friend Elaine have a flight which means I'll be left all alone at home but happy when she's here. We usually go dine out and stroll. I was lucky to be able to see Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. There was also this show that I saw which they call "Dancing Water". It was in front of Burj Khalifa and show starts every 6PM and continues every after 30 minutes to entertain tourists around. It was kinda beautiful and nice. I also get to see the 7-star hotel here called Burj Al Arab. Haven't got in to that place though, maybe next time.

When it comes to food, I wouldn't say it's cheap but it's average. A simple shawarma would cost around 5-10 dirhams. I've tried the famous shawarma from Aroos Damascus and oh boy it was soooo gooood! It's very far from our shawarmas back home. And since this country is mostly populated by Indians, there are loads of Indian restaurants or cafeteria everywhere. Indian foods were typically spicy and I keep on saying that I should be used to those kind of foods or maybe not! Meh. Well, almost everything you want to eat are available, from western cuisine to eastern cuisine.

What else? Oh yeah, I've learned that cellphone loads here don't expire, sim card does but you can renew it after like a year. Buying sim cards here requires you to show some identification. So if ever you lost your phone or someone stole it, they can easily track it. Best part is you can still use the same number even if it was deactivated for so many years. How about that? And buses... buses here seems to be cool. In Dubai, you can only ride a bus if you got a bus card. They don't have bus conductors here. All you need to do is ride a bus, from a bus station (buses here don't stop to load and unload passengers just anywhere), swipe your card and voila! Mind you, bus cards can't be used by 2 or more persons, you'll be fined 200 dirhams if police officers caught you. And what's even cooler is that buses here got their own numbers for their respective routes. So organized! But you better be sure that you've checked on the numbers before you board or you'll be lost haha!

I think that's about it for now. More of sandpit adventure later! Toodles!

x

DXB

Never thought of stepping my feet on UAE soil but now here I am, trying to enjoy every second of it. It's hard to leave families and friends but that's the way life is. It's hard to explain but I'm pretty sure you know what I'm saying.

Anyway, I was all prepared -- financially and emotionally. I've got high hopes being here but most importantly, I have a plan. But before that drama I want to throw out everything that happened to me before arriving Dubai.

It seemed pretty easy on me but that wasn't always the case, okay. I'm doing this for the sake of those people who wants to go here so they'll at least have an idea. As what would everyone say, I decided to go here for better opportunities. So I fixed all my documents and within a month, I got all the results. I have a friend working in Dubai who helped with my visa and ticket processing. The only thing that I'll be thinking about is on how to pass through those immigration officers in Manila. Immigration officers in the UAE are more lenient (as long as you have all legit documents of course) so I don't need to be worried about that.

April 28, my departure date. I arrived in NAIA three hours before my flight schedule. First thing you need to do is to have your visa scanned for authenticity then off you go to check in your baggage. I couldn't stress more on the fact that checking in online a day before your flight is pretty helpful. You will benefit by not queuing from those long lines at the airport as there are specific counters for online/web check-in. Oh before I forgot, pay the freaking terminal fees first before checking in your baggage. You need that receipt enable for you to check in your baggage. So after checking in your baggage, you will be given your boarding pass (don't forget to ask for a departure card, you'll need that at the Immigration counter), then you can now go straight to the Immigration. This is the last step before you board a plane. Some say go to a line which you think will let you pass easily but who can tell, right? Anyway, I picked on the most snob-looking immigration officer and when it was my turn, she asked for my passport, boarding pass, and departure card. She looked at me then to my papers and asked, "Why are you going to Dubai? What's your purpose?" I calmly said, "Just visiting a friend." Then she asked for my visa and return ticket. She then asked, "Who is Elaine Cruz?" I told her she was a friend and that's it. She stamped my passport and gave it back to me. I exhaled deeply. I thought that wasn't hard and I'm lucky. There are some people who have been going back and forth in different lanes yet they've always been denied. I overheard one of the immigration officer telling the other officer, "Pabayaan mo silang magpabalik balik diyan. Maghahanap lang ng trabaho yang mga yan sa ibang bansa." In English, "Let them go back and forth. They're just going to find a job outside Philippines." Honestly, I felt angry. I understand that it was part of their so called "job" to make sure every Filipino citizen will always be on safety but can't you just let them pass? I mean, most of them are in the right age and it's up to that person whatever he/she will do to whatever country he'll/she'll be in. They have visa, they have passport, what else do you fucking want? Gah! Anyway...

So, I waited for boarding for almost two hours. My flight was delayed, what's new? Eventually, I boarded a Boeing 777 Emirates Airlines' plane and it was freaking huge. The whole trip was about nine hours straight. When we reached Dubai, we did not land that instant. The pilot said that they're experiencing traffic. I was like, "Traffic on air? WTF?" We've been circling around for like 30 minutes and then we landed.. safely.

I was so stoked upon entering the Dubai airport. T'was huge and clean and seem to be very organised -- well, compared to NAIA for sure! Oh, here's another tip, don't ever wear heels! I was wearing my new stilettos and never thought that I would be having a verrrrrry long walk inside Dubai airport. Anyhow, before the immigration officer, you will do the eye scan. I dunno what the purpose is but it's their protocol here. After that, go straight to the immigration officer. When it was my turn, the Arab officer greeted me "Kamusta?" which is basically "Hi" in my own language. So I told him, "Mabuti." which is "Fine." He asked for my passport and visa, typed something on his computer then stamped my passport. And that was it. No questions asked. This is when I realized Filipinos are more strict when it comes to the immigration thingy and I wonder why. When I passed through the immigration, I immediately saw and got my baggage. Then I got out of the airport and my friend was already there waiting for me. =)

It's 2AM when I arrived and I can feel the heat from this place. I really am in Dubai now.

x

Tick Tock..

As am listening to Joe Hastings' End Credits, I realized that I now only have five days left here in Manila. Still haven't packed my things and believe me, it's one of the hardest part whenever I'm traveling. Tried it last night but I was unsuccessful. I should really accept the fact that I can't bring all my lovely stuff with me in my new venture. Fuck!

As what I've said, five days. Yep you heard me. Exact date is April 28 at 18:30 and that is final. Got my ticket and visa already. If you're gonna ask me if I'm all set and ready, my answer -- emotionally yes but literally no. Go figure!

x

Ágætis byrjun

Okay, so it's my third day being unemployed and what have I done on those days? Nothing much to say really. You know am lazier than anything you would ever imagine. Hehe.

Anyway, have I told you that I got my visa already? Yep! Got it last week though my flight schedule was still a surprise. I should say, end of this month or early May. Let's just cross our fingers that the final result will be revealed tomorrow, eh?

In other news, last Friday, I received an unexpected farewell party here at home. As usual, t'was my lovely Viatores and Bading's idea. Apparently, they're so much addicted to surprises which I hate. Anyway, what happened is that since my last days of reporting for work, Kets and I agreed on bonding for a day before I leave B&M. I just didn't know that they already have an agenda behind my back. Those evil bitches! So, at the night of their "freaking plan", Kets texted me that she's on her way here and she's just waiting for the pansit that she ordered. I even requested for a Razon's halo-halo. And so I waited for like an hour before they finally arrived. Yes, you heard me, THEY. Kets arrived with Elena, my anti-social bitch friend. So I was a bit confused but eventually, I thought maybe she just wanted to see me before I finally leave the country. That's it. So I fixed the table and told them it's time to eat. Gawd, these two had all the alibis in the world that night. That they just walked going here from there, that they needed to rest first and it's hot... blah blah blah... so in short, I allowed them to relax first with my stomach already crying for food! Suddenly, our dog barked like there's no tomorrow which indicates that somebody's outside our house. To my surprise, it was the rest of the gang. Yes, they got me and it was the second time. First was during my pregnancy then this one. Strike 2! Damn!

I hate surprises but I think I'm now getting used to it as long as there's always a new Cathy's bag. Hehe. Super thanks Five and Kets for that.

So we feast all night and had a couple of vodka shots. Some of my lovely friends didn't make it but they're all emotionally there and ehem, financially. I know they chipped in for all the food they bought. So thank you all and I will say it again, they're the best friends in the world!

My new Cathy's collection! Yay!

A good beginning embraces me and I'm all willing. What a best way of starting my new life. Surprises, surprises, must love surprises! Ugh! Until then. Ta-ta!

x

Ágætis byrjun (Icelandic pronunciation: [ˈaːucaitɪs ˈpɪrjʏn] OW-gy-tiss BI-ar-yun, A good beginning)

Game Over

Today is my last day at B&M. I am sad to leave beautiful friends here but you know, life must go on. It was my pleasure meeting wonderful people at DSC. All of you will always be in my heart.

My last email to B&M colleagues

Now I believe that in every beginning, there's always an ending. I'm just so blessed that mine was fruitful and happy.

So, until then.

x

Broke

Four days left and it felt like four freaking years! I feel so lazy as a pig every single day! I wanna go out and shop but you see, I'm jobless, I'm about to leave the country, and I'm broke! 

Anyway, last Wednesday, Xioms and I went out to have our teeth cleaned. That was the only plan. Nothing more, nothing less. But when we're about to leave home, I received a text from my mom that she's in Rustan's and she wants us to go there. I was wondering what's with Rustan's? We went there anyway. When we got there, mom told me to pick any shoes that I want and she'll buy it. I was like, "Seriously?" though I know mom was never a fan of jokes. So I fitted almost every shoes that I found. Eventually, I picked the zebra-looking flats from Kiddo's and was so happy with it. But my happiness didn't just end there. Mom treated us with a scoop of Dolce ice cream. How lucky could this day be? =)

After Rustan's we went straight to our dentist since we had an appointment by 4pm. During my oral prophylaxis, mom told me that I would be needing one more pair of shoes, the formal one with heels. I was really grinning when I heard that. Mom was out of her mind. She's prolly sick? The last time mom bought me a pair of shoes was way back when I was in fourth year high school! It was an 8-hole Dr. Martens classic boots. The funny thing is that I've been asking for my own Docs since I was in 3rd grade and just got my pair when I was in high school! She's really stingy (but in a good cause/way) but this time, the world just turned upside down. Anyway after the dentist appointment, we went to Glorietta 5, did some fitting here and there until I have grabbed on the Ohrelle's 2-inch snake skin Mary Jane. Imagine, 2 shoes FROM MOM in a day! I'm in cloud nine! Shoes are one of my weaknesses!

New babies :)

After shoe shopping, mom lead us to Luk Yuen and we had our dinner there. At first, I told myself that I won't eat since my teeth were so clean and pearly white. Haha pearly white! But I ended up scooping every food that we ordered. Who would ignore Chinese food, eh? Especially the chicken feet. YUMMM! After dinner, we went home. 

I love you mom and thank you for this day and for my pretty new shoes! You made my broke day happy! Haha!

x

Count Dracula

It's already April and am counting the days again. Days of excitement, days of parting, days of sadness, days of long days, days of agitation or whatever days I could and would get. I'm now quite sure as to why numbers are created -- to count, you idiot!

For whatever reason, I'm feeling convinced. I even believe there's life after death. But of course with all the positive things happening, gloominess still sometimes prevails. I was thinking of the days that I won't be able to see kiddo, to touch her, to wipe her tears when she cries, to laugh with her, to hug and kiss her and so on. People visualize me that I don't give a shit, that I have a stone-cold heart but in reality, am not. I guess my face looks good pretending not to care though deep down inside, I always always ponder what will my life be when I'm thrown out into the battlefield... alone.

Still, I'm decided. I don't believe in second chances and "patiently waiting" doesn't seem to be part of my dictionary. It's time and I'm all ready. Fourteen nights and twenty-nine days more. So all I'm asking is for you to bear with my recurring numbers.

Malaise

All things are ready. And when I say ready, I'm good to go!

Since the day I knew I'm already decided, everyday, I bug my lovely droogs just to know EVERYTHING I want to know. All questions which starts with the letter W were made. There was even a point that one of my friends got tired of my silliness and was like hiding and don't want to talk to me anymore. Oh well, she has her reasons, I was really annoying, and I totally understand that.

Anyway, today I got a call from E and was told all the exact details that am longing to hear. At first I was like struck by a lightning. My brain don't seem to function but my heartbeat was so fast that if it has its own feet and hands, it would prolly rip my breast and run. I felt sick though am so stoked with the news so I breathe deeply as I absorbed things... things that would change my life forever which is hopefully, for the best.

I cannot believe that it's just these past few months! There's no turning back now.

How about you, have you ever felt so anxiously excited?

75/75

I never imagined myself wearing specs until my mom decided and pushed me to get one. Since college, I've been wearing contact lenses. When I lost my last pair last 2007 (I think), I got fed up and decided not to buy a new one. Since then, I never had my eyes checked and of course, never used contact lenses or anything. I am quite sure with my beliefs that prescribed specs or contact lenses doesn't make any sense and that it will all just make your eyes worst. Apparently, I was so wrong! A lot of times I felt nauseated. I am almost always an inch closer between my books or the computer. And so I went to see an ophthalmologist and found out that I'm myopic. Got a 75 grade on both eyes. Not that bad but I was advised, or should I say forced, to buy a pair of glasses. Right! Anyway, here I am now.

How do I look?

x

Tree Top Adventure - Bnx and Pogi's Bday

T'was B and K's month. Another year older for them so we decided to have a celebration but not as the usual drinking and eating session. Someone has come up of an idea and I'm not quite sure who's to blame on this. Haha.

Bulag, Pipi't Bingi (me with the celebrants)

Anyway, we went to Subic for the Tree Top Adventure. I brought Xioms with me as an excuse but it was Roch who used my poor kid to get herself away from the stunts. Such a loser! So, we tried their tree drop, canopy ride and my favorite of all, superman ride. It was my first time though I've been wanting to try those all my life. To me, it was pretty boring until the superman ride. To tell you honestly, I never kept my mouth shut during the ride. I was like shouting and screaming my lungs out. But oye, it was really fun!

Viatores with loved ones

After the adventure, we had our dinner (this is a celebration so there must have been some FREE FOOD!) at Xtremely Xpresso Cafe. It's like an Italian resto in Subic. I was amazed with their huge pizza and was hoping for it to be really good -- in fairness, it was. They ordered some pastas and soups. Spinach soup, I will never forget that. It ain't good and was not really made from spinach. Good thing they replaced it with chicken macaroni soup. We had strawberry gelato for dessert and my, it was so yummy! Xioms surely enjoyed that the most!

Just like any other day, every good thing has an end. We were sooo tired but we had a blast! I bet it was a perfect birthday celebration for deaf and mute as it was a wild and exciting experience, plus we got to share the moment with some of our friends and loved ones. Until our next trip. Long live Viatores!

x

No Goodbyes

Today, I've submitted my resignation. After five long years, I just felt that I need to go somewhere and prove something to myself. I hate leaving people there but we have our own lives and dreams to prioritize. Besides, people always leave; be it for personal reason, career reason, or whatever reason, that's how life goes.

It's been a roller coaster staying at DSC for half a decade. The very first time I stepped my shoes in that company, I'm completely clueless on what to expect. The reason is I consider B&M as my first REAL job after graduation; plus, it's a law firm and I'm a BBA graduate.

There, I learned loads of stuff or I must say all about the Microsoft Office world. I never knew then that I can view paragraph marks and tabs in a Word document. I never thought how easy it is to create such a PowerPoint presentation. I was exposed with different legal terms that I never heard of before. Been deaf listening to audio files for at least 6 to 8 hours a day but at no time I complained as I'm enjoying and at the same time I'm learning. Nailed a certification exam for Microsoft Word, applied for a QCA position yet failed, applied for a TL position -- hugged victory... so it goes. But the most important thing is I found friends who helped me stand up and fight for my everyday quest. That cannot be replaced of anything and I am so much thankful for that.

I hate goodbyes. There was a time that I certainly did not accept such a term as true but in life, it just sinks in, you just don't know when, where and how. Goodbyes aren't made for precious things to last; thus, it is a way to make each person stronger.

So, au revoir for now and see you again later!

x

Rebirth

Death

Transformation. Death of the old ways. Making way for new energy and revitalization. Time to look for a new path. Change in a relationship, job or long-standing belief. Possible new beginning or liberation. Time to let go of something and let it pass from your life. Change of mind. Outside influence will cause drastic change. Accept change or change will be thrust upon you. Grieving a loss or change. Rebirth.

-From my Daily Tarot Card Reading

Redy for Foreign Tattoo

I never wanted to waste any time so this morning, I sent Redy for a nice tattoo. I was given a week for it to heal then I'm all set. Just one more step and yeah, I'll go bounce. Still have no idea? Patience my dear. You'll be surprised in no time.

***Karus Patris, ego fui no sursum meus mens quod ego ero postulo vestri succurro. Rector mihi ut vos usquequaque operor huic novus nisus ut ego sum capturus. In nomine Patris, et Filii, et Spiritu Sancti, Amen.

Redy

I've waited for like 2 weeks and today, Redy's in my hands. Two more step then am off! Yeah, yeah, I know you don't have any clue on what the heck am talking about but I promise, soon... you'll see.. errr.. you'll hear from me.

Oh, what a happy day!

My Top 20 Movies of All Time!

I'm a HUGE fan of films and I've decided to share these kick-ass ones that you should see, at least, before you die. Oh okay, anytime within your lifetime. Here's my top 20 (in no particular order).

1. Bram Stoker's Dracula
No film could ever replace Nosferatu - the original vampire, except this.

2. A Clockwork Orange
How would you forget the nasty droogs? This film is one of the craziest shit I've ever seen and to my surprise, I heart it.

3. Murder in the First
I think this is the best movie that Kevin Bacon has ever been into. Scenes are very much realistic yet hard to absorb.

4. Memento
One of the movies that made me, at this point of time, think of having a short-term memory loss. Great elusive film.

5. Y Tu Mama Tambien
Never thought of how talented Mexicans are and Gael, oh Gael! This is a must-see joyride movie.

6. Goodfellas
I've always been a fan of crime films. If I could be somebody in my next life, I would want to be a girl Don or a member of powerful mobsters. Girl don eh? Haha

7. Boondock Saints (1999)
People who aren't aware of MacManus twins doesn't have a life. Not to mention my all-time LOVE, Norman Reedus who stars this indie cult classic.

8. Run Lola Run
Best indie film of all time, PERIOD.

9. American History X
Very compelling and dramatic film. This would definitely change your beliefs in life.

10. The Shawshank Redemption
This, I believe, is the way to adapt a book to screen. The movie is full of hope and lessons in life.

11. Pulp Fiction
A classic hardboiled film. Tarantino never fails to create such masterpiece.

12. Frankenstein (1994)
Played by the amazing Robert DeNiro. Though critics say it was a bad film, I personally contest. Watch it yourself then you'll know what I'm talking about.

13. Scarface
Violence and profanity? Name it. But I tell you, this is powerful and shocking that you would never imagine.

14. Into the Wild
Sean Penn directs this true to life film about Christopher McCandless, an American itinerant who died out of starvation. This was beautifully portrayed by Emile Hirsch.

15. Big Fish
This enchanting film was filled with soul which is very far from Tim Burton's bizarre creations. I'm not misleading you, no. I believe that the film itself was a package of creativity, talent and great story.

16. Synecdoche, New York
This is such a rare and desirous film I've ever seen. I wouldn't be surprised if everyone's not aware that this do exist. Before watching this, I require you to be patient and considerate. You'll be amazed in the end, promise.

17. Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels
How will I describe this uber cool heist film of Guy Ritchie? Hmm.

18. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
Three words: Simple yet powerful. And I still can't believe I'm actually adding more words than three; but yeah, Jack Nicholson - one of the GREAT actors of all time.

19. Dog Day Out
Pretty hilarious film that would blow your head - literally and figuratively.

20. Alice in Wonderland (1951)
My all-time favorite cartoon. Never felt any boredom watching this for like gazillion times.


There. I wish I could add some more but you know me, am lazy as a cow to feed you everything. How about you? What's your fair share?