Chillin' in Puerto Galera

Spent a rather nice time last weekend south of Manila at Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro. Last time I was there, was in 2005, and didn't enjoy it that much as it was a company summer trip. Too chaotic.

sunset at Puerto Galera

The beach. It's about the nth time that I've been at Galera. This might be the last time I'll be to an honest to goodness beach of the Philippine kind before I get sent somewhere cold overseas.

So I thought I better grab the opportunity while it's not yet the peak of the summer season and we have lots of guests coming over from overseas. The more the merrier.

rocky grounds of a beach lodge

path

Went with some colleagues from Manila, Australia, Singapore, Spain and Sweden and my brother, too.

guys at sunset

galera evening

cute dog

distorted image transfer of sand and bamboo path going to the beach

Addict!!

Okay. Go ahead. Say it.
Am an online quiz addict. teehee! :P

Oh really eh? But I don't enjoy vegemite at all... Like the koalas though. :P

You Belong in Australia

Ace! Sunny, upbeat, and cute You make the perfect surf bum Now stop hogging the vegemite!

What English Speaking Country Are You?

Your Hidden Talent

You're super sensitive and easily able to understand situations. You tend to solve complex problems in a flash, without needing a lot of facts. Decision making is easy for you. You have killer intuition. The right path is always clear, and you're a bit of a visionary.

What's Your Hidden Talent?

You Are a Candy Heart

You're definitely a pro when it comes to romance - and you have great dating etiquette. Plus you probably smell and taste pretty darn good.

Are You a Candy Heart or a Candy Fart?

Your Luck Quotient: 68%

You have a high luck quotient. More often than not, you've felt very lucky in your life. You may be randomly lucky, but it's probably more than that. Optimistic and open minded, you take advantage of all the luck that comes your way.

How Lucky Are You?

Your Five Variable Love Profile

Propensity for Monogamy: Your propensity for monogamy is medium. In general, you prefer to have only one love interest. But it's hard for you to stay devoted for too long! There's too much eye candy to keep you from wandering. Experience Level: Your experience level is medium. You probably have had a couple significant loves. And you may have even had your heart broken. But you haven't really dated a wide variety of people. Dominance: Your dominance is low. This doesn't mean you're a doormat, just balanced. You know a relationship is not about getting your way. And you love to give your sweetie a lot of freedom. Cynicism: Your cynicism is medium. You'd like to believe in true and everlasting love... But you've definitely been burned enough to know better. You're still an optimist, but you also are a realist. Independence: Your independence is high. You don't need to be in love, and sometimes you don't even want love. Having your own life is very important for you... Even more important than having a relationship.

The Five Variable Love Test

You Are 50% Weird

Normal enough to know that you're weird... But too damn weird to do anything about it!

How Weird Are You?

The Keys to Your Heart

You are attracted to those who are unbridled, untrammeled, and free. In love, you feel the most alive when your lover is creative and never lets you feel bored. You'd like to your lover to think you are loyal and faithful... that you'll never change. You would be forced to break up with someone who was emotional, moody, and difficult to please. Your ideal relationship is open. Both of you can talk about everything... no secrets. Your risk of cheating is low. Even if you're tempted, you'd try hard not to do it. You think of marriage as something that will confine you. You are afraid of marriage. In this moment, you think of love as commitment. Love only works when both people are totally devoted.

What Are The Keys To Your Heart?

eeni mini mynee moh

"(insert my two first names here..)!! Europe is asking.... For Germany and Norway.... Before it's just for Germany, now, there's Norway too. "

"So, Norway, is that okay with you?"

That's the director, approaching me in front of everyone, telling me our Europe office is asking that.

Hmmmm... Ms. Norway?

The next week:
me to PM who just got back from business trip to Chicago: "I've been told am being deployed..."
PM: "Which countries were mentioned...?"
me: "I've been asked for Norway but Germany was also mentioned"
PM: "Well, you, which do you prefer?"
PM: "Germany or Norway?"

Huh? Now Germany too? Ms. Germany.. hihi.

A few days later:
Director: "France has asked, how about it, mademoiselle?"
Director and PM: "Where would you like to be?"
Director and PM: "Germany or France?"

Ms. Germany? France?

*sigh*.. I've been asked. At work. Now am confused.

Pwedeng UK na lang? Then it's Ms. England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. hahaha! :P Where do you really want to send me ba? haha! jk!


But I already know where am being sent. Regardless of which I prefer, management prevails, bien sur. And that's fine by me. As long as it's in the EU, and that it happens to be part of the top 3-4 countries where I want to be assigned. They all seem the same to me now. Except that at least I know some French whereas I don't know much German; just guten tag/morgen, danke schoen, achtung, schneller, scheiss (kids, don't say this at home :P), and bitte. :P And that Norway would have letters like this: ø. haha!

But bottomline is that, I get deployed. I left my previous employer when I knew I was being sent to the US (with an interview booked already at the embassy) because I was contacted and given a very interesting proposition by the soon-to-be-next and now-current employer that there'd be a lot of travel involved when I said I wasn't really looking to find a new place to work. And he started asking me what would make me leave my current employer. They certainly know when to throw the bait. haha!

Oh well. As to where am going in the spring, that's for me to know, and for you to find out. Soon enough. Hihi! I already know where am going. And it's to some place cold. :P Not much clue there, no? hehe!

Some More Quizzes

And my outrageous name is...

Your Outrageous Name is:

Sue Shi

Outrageous Name Generator

Your Blog Should Be Purple

You're an expressive, offbeat blogger who tends to write about anything and everything. You tend to set blogging trends, and you're the most likely to write your own meme or survey. You are a bit distant though. Your blog is all about you - not what anyone else has to say.

What Color Should Your Blog or Journal Be?

Indeed!

Your Blogging Type Is the Private Performer

Your blog is your stage - with your visitors your adoring fans. At least, that's how you write with your witty one liners. And while you like attention, you value your privacy. You're likely to have an anonymous blog - or turn off comments.

What's Your Blogging Personality?

You Are 40% Impulsive

You're a pretty stable and serious person. You don't take things lightly. This doesn't mean you can't have fun - you just have fun responsibly. You definitely have a spontaneous side, but you only let loose when it's appropriate.

Are You Impulsive?

Your Summer Ride is a Beetle Convertible

Fun, funky, and a little bit euro. You love your summers to be full of style and sun!

What's Your Summer Ride?

You Have Low Self Esteem 16% of the Time

Which can be translated to mean, you have high self-esteem and a healthy sense of self worth. You believe in yourself, and you know how to be the real you. You love yourself, imperfections and all.

How is Your Self Esteem?

Your Dosha is Kapha

Calm and grounded, you are not prone to mood swings or anger. However, once you do get angry, it takes a lot to cool you down. You tend to think a little slower than most people, but your logic is astounding. Overall, you very loyal and trustworthy. You're not scared of being who you really are. With friends: You enjoy their company, but often listen more than talk In love: You crave connection and affection. It's hard for you to be single. To achieve more balance: Exercise vigorously (especially in the sun) and let go of attachments.

What's Your Dosha?

Your Seduction Style: The Charismatic

You're beyond seductive, you're downright magnetic! You life live and approach seduction on a grand scale. You have an inner self confidence and energy that most people lack It's these talents that make you seem extraordinary - and you truly are!

What Is Your Seduction Style?

How You Are In Love

You take a while to fall in love with someone. Trust takes time. You give and take equally in relationships. You need your space and privacy. You don't like to be smothered. You love your partner unconditionally and don't try to make them change. You stay in love for a long time, even if you aren't loved back. When you fall, you fall hard.

How Are You In Love?

You Are Dancer

Carefree and fun, you always find reasons to do a happy dance. Why You're Naughty: That dark stint you had as Santa's private dancer. Why You're Nice: You're friendly. Very friendly.

Which of Santa's Reindeer Are You?

Your Mood Ring is Dark Red

Very happy Love Passion

Mood Ring Generator

You Belong in Paris

You enjoy all that life has to offer, and you can appreciate the fine tastes and sites of Paris. You're the perfect person to wander the streets of Paris aimlessly, enjoying architecture and a crepe.

What European City Do You Belong In?

Your Candy Heart Says "First Kiss"

You're a true romantic who brings an innocent hope to each new relationship. You see the good in every person you date, and you relish each step of falling in love. Your ideal Valentine's Day date: a romantic dinner your sweetie cooks for you Your flirting style: friendly and sweet What turns you off: cynics who don't believe in romance Why you're hot: you always keep the romance alive

What Does Your Candy Heart Say?

You Communicate With Your Ears

You love conversations, both as a listener and a talker. What people say is important to you, and you're often most affected by words, not actions. You love to hear complements from others. And when you're upset, you often talk to yourself. Music is very important to you. It's difficult to find you without your iPod.

How Do You Communicate?

You Are 12% Slacker

You are anything but a slacker. You're truly a go getter. You never let laziness get in the way of living your life - and you can't stand to see it in others.

Are You a Slacker?

You Are 68% Happy

You are a very happy person. Generally, you feel content and that all is right with the world. Occasionally, you have a down day - but you have the ability to pick yourself right back up.

How Happy Are You?

Huh? Does this not apply to Spanish, too? :P

Your Inner European is Swedish!

Relaxed and peaceful. You like to kick back and enjoy life.

Who's Your Inner European?

More Bored Randomness

What are the things you enjoy doing even when there's no one around you?
- reading
- DVDs
- Internet

What lowers your stress/blood pressure/anxiety level?
- eating
- stepping out of the office when am stressed out at work
- seeing lots of trees and greens
- seeing the sea
- reading
- my pet dogs
- jogging, walking, swimming


7 things that scares you:
- walking home or to the bus stop or car park alone at night (more like I hate it actually, rather than that it scares me)
- the Exorcist movie
- scary movies in general
- going around Quiapo by myself
- Italian guys in Rome.. :P
- bearded, hairy, and greasy-looking men..

7 things you like the most:
(in no particular order)
- travel
- taking photos
- sleeping in on weekends
- coffee/dinner with family and close friends
- dining out or trying a new place/food
- swimming laps
- walking

7 important things in your bedroom:
- my DVDs
- my mobile phone
- my Mac
- my blanket
- books
- my bags
- snow globe collection

Random facts about you:
- I had short-lived crushes on two classmates in college..
- I used to be part of spelling bees back in elementary school. hihi!
- I don't eat paksiw. And only take the sauce of dinuguan.
- I don't enjoy the atmosphere at Dad's restaurant at Glorietta...
- I love Deli France. I wish there's one near my office.. Waaaahhh! :(
- Am not necessarily a Starbucks addict. Spain's plain ol' cafe con leche even at train or bus stations beats any Starbucks drink anytime, hands down.
- I have tried the Danesi cafe in Rome.
- I've lived on my own/had my own flat 5-10 minutes walk away from Greenbelt.

7 things you plan to do before you die:
- travel to places I'd love to go to or revisit
- be happy
- know that I didn't leave anyone back here with bitter feelings towards me
- spend one night in the mountains and watching the northern lights
- do some hiking in the mountains in Canada
- join the mile-high club.. haha! :P
- live/work/travel some more in Europe/South America

7 things you can do:
- stay away from my mobile phone :P
- stay away from the phone
- live by myself
- travel on my own
- drink but not get wasted
- not smoke
- not overeat

7 things you can't do:
- not check my mails at least once a week
- not pet my dogs when I leave or arrive home
- do mountaineering or wall-climbing
- be in deep waters or where my feet can't touch bottom
- ignore a guest
- extreme sports
- not read some book or magazine in a week

7 things that attract you to the opposite sex:
- the smile
- eyes
- hair or lack thereof. :P haha!
- dry wit
- sweetness/thoughtfulness
- great social skills
- intelligence

7 things you say the most:
- kaloka
- addict
- duh!
- fuuuccckkkk... haha
- syeetttt
- kaineezz
- cool

7 celeb crushes:
- Eric Bana
- Viggo Mortensen
- Liev Shreiber
- Phil Keoghan (Amazing Race host, and I don't even know how to pronounce his surname.. hehe..)
- Colin Firth
- Christian Bale
- Enrique Iglesias

20 Random Info About Moi

1.) i am the smallest in my family.
Am the shortest.. Oui. :P

2.) I went to a less prestigious university even when I was accepted by the top 3. All because I was burned out studying too much in a strict Chinese Catholic school pre-university.

3.) i am a social drinker and control my alcohol intake as alcohol makes me quiet or feel lethargic.. and therefore, less talkative and sociable..

4.) i've only been drunk thrice in my life.
At Puerto Galera, in Baguio, and in Serendra... :P And mostly it was tipsiness rather than being totally wasted..

5.) i once had my hair dyed somewhat blond..
Call it burnout from work... Lasted only one day.. hehe.


6.) I wasn't too girly until after I left university. :P
Was always in jeans and collared shirts. No blouses... Nothing too feminine...

7.) i drink coffee only to stay alert, or for after-dinner with friends/family.

8.) I can be really dense about guys who might be interested in me.

9.) I am shy and don't make eye contact with people I walk past usually, not on the streets, or at work (except for people I know...)..

10.) I like the coconut milkshake that was served at a resort in Palawan.

11.) i can get by in English, Tagalog, Spanish and Mandarin (when I am forced to, I absolutely hated this back in school...)...

12.) I wish they can create an iPhone with a camera that has better resolution, now.

13.) I don't know if I should be happy or not with my given name.

15.) i have a love-hate relationship with my work

16.) I like happy colors.. or sea colors...

17.) I like watching foreign-language films.

19.) I wish I can cook like my dad or mom. Right now, I cook 'cause I need to eat. hehe.

20.) I need to steer clear of bookstores whenever am out at the malls...

Quiz Time

Am not bored, no? Career-in ba these online quizzes... But it's fun, and addictive! *Sigh* Next weekend I have to get out of the house... or finish reading the books I've started reading.

Gummy Bears

You may be smooshie and taste unnatural, but you're so darn cute.

What Kind of Candy Are You?

hehe!

Your Kissing Technique Is: Perfect

Your kissing technique is amazing - and you know it. You have the confidence to make the first move. And you always seem to know what kissing style is going to work best. Sometimes you're passionate, sometimes you're a tease. And you're always amazing!

Are You a Good Kisser?

Cool...

You Are An Intro-Extrovert!

Sometimes you're social - sometimes you're shy You've got a bit of an Introvert / Extrovert split going on You enjoy all sorts of situations. Parties, small groups, and alone time. Too much of one, and you'll long for the other. You need varity! Chances are, you've got both serious and fun friends - and they don't get along.

Are You An Extrovert or Introvert?

Your Lucky Love Color is Orange

When someone gets to know you, the first thing they notice is your understated sexiness. You are sultry and deeply sensual. You also have a rich palette for sexy foods and music. And unlike what your color might suggest, you aren't really all that funky or weird. Your heart is usually calm, even when you are falling for someone. You rarely make bad choices in love.

All About Your Lucky Love Color

Really? :P

You Are a Cupcake

Cute and fun, you never take life too seriously. People are constantly surprised by how delightful you are.

What Dessert Are You Most Like?

I am proudly weird!! hehe!

Your Personality Profile

You are dependable, popular, and observant. Deep and thoughtful, you are prone to moodiness. In fact, your emotions tend to influence everything you do. You are unique, creative, and expressive. You don't mind waving your freak flag every once and a while. And lucky for you, most people find your weird ways charming!

The World's Shortest Personality Test

You Are a Tulip

You have a wild, experimental side that craves change. You often switch jobs and men, always looking for something better. But deep down, you're also very well grounded and content. And you will come to know that the life you live is already ideal.

What Flower Are You?

How You Life Your Life

You have a good sense of self control and hate to show weakness. You say whatever is on your mind. Other people's reactions don't phase you. You tend to have one best friend you hang with, as opposed to many aquaintences. You tend to always dream of things within reach - and you usually get them.

How Do You Live Your Life?

You Are Fun Sexy

You're funny, quirky, cute, and sassy. Guys always have a great time with you, and that alone is sexy. You've got an upbeat, optimistic spirit that totally shines through. Any guy would be crazy to turn you down!

What Kind of Sexy Are You?

You Are a Plain Ole Cup of Joe

But don't think plain - instead think, uncomplicated You're a low maintenance kind of girl... who can hang with the guys Down to earth, easy going, and fun! Yup, that's you: the friend everyone invites. And your dependable too. Both for a laugh and a sympathetic ear.

What Kind of Coffee Are You?

Your Personality Is

Guardian (SJ) You are sensible, down to earth, and goal oriented. Bottom line, you are good at playing by the rules. You tend to be dominant - and you are a natural leader. You are interested in rules and order. Morals are important to you. A hard worker, you give your all at whatever you do. You're very serious, and people often tell you to lighten up. In love, you tend to take things carefully and slowly. At work, you are suited to almost any career - but you excel in leadership positions. With others, you tend to be polite and formal. As far as looks go, you are traditionally attractive. You take good care of yourself. On weekends, you tend to like to do organized activities. In fact, you often organize them!

The Three Question Personality Test

Hmmm....

You Are Sunset

Even though you still may be young, you already feel like you've accomplished a lot in life. And you feel free to pave your own path now, and you're not even sure where it will take you. Maybe you'll pursue higher education in a subject you enjoy - or travel the world for a few years. Either way, you approach life with a relaxed, open attitude. And that will take you far!

What Time Of Day Are You?

Am I of this earth?

Your Element is Earth

Your power color: yellow Your energy: balancing Your season: changing of seasons Dedicated and responsible, you are a rock to your friends. You are skilled at working out even the most difficult problems. Low key and calm, you are happiest when you are around loved ones. Ambitious and goal oriented, you have long term plans to be successful.

What Element Are You?

You Belong in London

A little old fashioned, and a little modern. A little traditional, and a little bit punk rock. A unique woman like you needs a city that offers everything. No wonder you and London will get along so well.

What City Do You Belong In?

Your Five Factor Personality Profile

Extroversion: You have medium extroversion. You're not the life of the party, but you do show up for the party. Sometimes you are full of energy and open to new social experiences. But you also need to hibernate and enjoy your "down time." Conscientiousness: You have medium conscientiousness. You're generally good at balancing work and play. When you need to buckle down, you can usually get tasks done. But you've been known to goof off when you know you can get away with it. Agreeableness: You have high agreeableness. You are easy to get along with, and you value harmony highly. Helpful and generous, you are willing to compromise with almost anyone. You give people the benefit of the doubt and don't mind giving someone a second chance. Neuroticism: You have low neuroticism. You are very emotionally stable and mentally together. Only the greatest setbacks upset you, and you bounce back quickly. Overall, you are typically calm and relaxed - making others feel secure. Openness to experience: Your openness to new experiences is low. You're a pretty conservative person, and you favor what's socially acceptable. You think that change for novelty's sake is a very bad idea. While some may see this as boring, many see you as dependable and wise.

The Five Factor Personality Test

You Are Elektra

There's really no superhero with more style than you. Because who could beat being sexy assasin ninja?

What Superhero Are You?

You Are a Visionary Soul

You are a curious person, always in a state of awareness. Connected to all things spiritual, you are very connected to your soul. You are wise and bright: able to reason and be reasonable. Occasionally, you get quite depressed and have dark feelings. You have great vision and can be very insightful. In fact, you are often profound in a way that surprises yourself. Visionary souls like you can be the best type of friend. You are intuitive, understanding, sympathetic, and a good healer. Souls you are most compatible with: Old Soul and Peacemaker Soul

What Kind of Soul Are You?

You Are A Blueberry Martini

You are a eclectic drink - liking to change drinks and venues often. You are usually the first of your friends to find a cool new dive bar or cocktail. You should never: Drink mystery drinks strangers hand you. Unless you want to wind up in foreign country. Your ideal party: Is mobile, hopping from party to party. Your drinking soulmates: Those with an Orange Martini personality. Your drinking rivals: Those with a Chocolate Martini personality.

What Flavor Martini Are You?

And I happen to like apple juice too..

You Are An Apple Tree

You are quiet and shy at times, but you have lots of charm and appeal. You are quite attractive: your pleasant attitude, flirtatious smile, and adventurous spirit draw people in. Sensitive and loyal in love, you want to love and be loved. You are a faithful and tender partner - who is generous in sharing your many talents. You love children, and you need an affectionate partner.

What's Your Celtic Horoscope?

People Envy Your Compassion

You have a kind heart and an unusual empathy for all living creatures. You tend to absorb others' happiness and pain. People envy your compassion, and more importantly, the connections it helps you build. And compassionate as you are, you feel for them.

What Do People Envy About You?