Saturday, December 24, 2011

This is it!

   When the month of December started, it was not the holiday decors that I was excited about. I have been making my countdowns for this special day.

   Christmas day is to be spent with people dear to you. I asked my parents for permission that I wont spend this year's Christmas Eve with them. They agreed as long as I am home in time for my Mom's birthday and the New Year's Eve. 

   This day is special for me... make or break.... 

    Preparations are made... room has been cleaned, bed sheets have been changed and my self ready for seeing him tonight. In a few hours I will be able to see you, to hold you and talk to you without the computer's monitor in between us. 

  See you in a few hours..... i really cant wait.

Friday, December 23, 2011

Man of Excellence - My Winning Piece

This is my winning piece for the essay contest in SCOPE:

         I was barely 3 years of age when my grandparents took me to live with them. My parents were sad but they have to make a sacrifce for my well-being. But it is my Dad who sacrificed the most. He did not think of his pride or ego being the man of the family.

     During the time I was living with my maternal grandparents, my Dad took whatever job that is available. He became a part time driver, a security guard and he even came to the point of trying his luck to work abroad. He was not lucky in that aspect as the agency was a scam. His savings gone. He has to start all over again and be strong for his family's sake.

     When my youngest brother was born, he brought my mom back to her hometown for a visit and when he got back, he has no more job to go back to. The agency had done some cost cutting measures. But because he was doing his job properly, his boss took pity on him and asked him to go to this company and look for his wife who is an HR. And with God's grace, he got accepted to work at international airport. He was assigned at the medical department as messenger and driver for one of the doctors. Because of his hard work, he was given a training to become a paramedic and now drives the ambulance.

    From that time until this day, my Dad's determination of never giving up has given him a successful life. He may not have become the boss of the company or did he become a celebrity but having achieved his goal of making life better for his family in terms of finances and giving his family their needs and love and care is the most that he was able to achieve.

   My dad, is my Man of Excellence for having gone through all those hardships and trials without giving up.

Friday, October 28, 2011

TODAY (October 28, 2011)

I woke up today with a smile on my face
Remembering the first time your message was sent
Going on site so I can trace
But old messages were no longer kept

As each day we chat and see each other on cam
We build a relationship of Trust
And that we have is not a scam
So I secretly wish that it will last

I do not know how you feel
Frightened to ask you about it
But deep inside I do hope it is for real
Coz when you buzz my heart skips a beat

Soon my Dear
I will hold you with my arms
Coz from Perth you will come near
So I can get to enjoy your boyish charms

For now all I can do is count the days
Until the 24th of December when you arrive so late
And though I am not sure if in my life you decide to stay
I would like to think that you are worth the wait.

Sunday, August 07, 2011

I am blessed with real friends

During the time I was hacked, I never expected people to come to my aid. I found out who my real friends are and who are the decent ones.

The video which can destroy my reputation was the most devastating of all but thank God for all the people who instead of watching it, took their time to inform everyone that my account has been hacked. 

Thank you God for the friends you gave me.

Saturday, July 16, 2011

I hate good byes

    "I hate good byes"... this phrase is almost a cliche as we always hear these words among the people who have to go on separate ways.

    I came to Malaysia never expecting that I will be meeting such wonderful people. It tears my heart as the days that we have to leave the company draws near. The FTP team made my first time stay in Malaysia a memorable one. The place is a diversed culture and the respect, camaraderie, friendship and the fun are some of the things that can never be replaced with any amount of money you see in your paycheck.

   I will surely miss Nabilah greeting me in sametime (Magandang Umaga Maganda). I am sorry Yaso i can't punch daddy for you (hahaha.. we are indebted to him for trying to keep us). Zuhri, when we go karaoke i promise i sing the song for you (but you have to remember the song title). Kam, i should ask tips on how to get a high score in IELTS (but there is nothing i can do about me being deaf.. lol). I almost forgot lady gaga vs Justin Bieber. Sorry Jeya, i am not a Bieber fan i will help Yap kill Justin Bieber anytime. Cikin, i hope next time you don't iron your clothes while wearing it (just kidding). Izhal I know we will see you around (in shopping malls). Oh no! Asha has no one to say bye-bye to before she goes back home.. no one going back later that her (LOL). Faizul, i sure hope you didn't get any new blackberry models in your phone (no one is as good as us...lol).

   Starting Monday, it is a new adjustment that i won't be able to see the smiling faces of Chris and Anis, the quiet ladies: Mira, Azimah and Wardah, Zahril's nice physique (i should go to the gym maybe to get a good physique as him), Daisy who was in panic during her training and Mommy Fatin.

   And I should salute Adrian for being a good lead. I really appreciate all the things he is doing for the team and most specially having concern with their well-being.
   
    Thank you to Sudershan for trying his best to keep us and gave us the opportunity to share our knowledge and experiences to the team and in turn gain new experiences and knowledge from the people we have worked and met in HSBC.

    I really hate goodbyes as this is not good bye... Surely the bond of friendship we have made is strong so no good byes but until we meet again.....


  

Selamat Datang to Malaysia

      My name is Zarah and this is my story.

      I have been in the IT industry for more than a decade and in the course of my work, I have traveled far and wide. In those travel, I dealt with people of different race and culture, of different religion and beliefs, of different sizes and shapes. But there is one country that I took the risk of relocating to….. Malaysia.

     Philippines is not far from Malaysia. In history, Malaysia and the Philippines are connected through the Sabah province as this used to be in the Philippine’s territory.

      It is my first time in the Malaysia. My first time to come in contact with Muslims as close as I can possibly be. Philippines is dominated by Christian faith however, Muslim beliefs is not new as we have Muslim brothers and sisters in Mindanao which is near Sabah, Malaysia. With all the conflicts of the muslim and Christian faith in the Philippines, I came to think that it is hard to live in the country dominated by Muslim.

      One day, an opportunity for me to come and live in Malaysia arrived. I fell in love with someone who is working in Kuching and for me to be near him, I have to find a job that could easily take me to where he is. At first I fear that I won’t survive but as I get to know the culture, I find myself falling in love with the place. The country is rich in culture. I gain a lot of muslim friends. I learned about their culture. And most of all, I learned that the key to a harmonious relationship is have respect for each other.

       Selamat Datang to Malaysia…. now my second home.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

The Right Love at the Wrong Time

I once heard of the song "we have the right love at the wrong time". I keep thinking of situation or scenario that i can associate that line from the song. And now, I understand what it means.. I may have the perfect relationship with someone however the situation and circumstances would not permit us. We may have the love and respect for each other but we can only do that from the distance as he and I have separate lives to take. He with his Kids while I to the man I will start a family with.

For this Valentines day. He sent me a card and my heart all the more aches for the day when he and I can be both free to express how we felt for each other. He calls me his Elefantos and sometimes the charming lady or his Mota Meye.

His Valentine Card says:

Thursday, February 10, 2011

The Resignation Letter

2 February 2011         
Monina Barretto Senior Manager          
Accenture
2/f
Makati Stock Exchange Building
Ayala Avenue
, Makati
City  

Dear Ms. Nina:
The purpose of this resignation letter is to inform you that I will be leaving my position with Accenture as Team Lead effective March 5, 2011. I will be relocating to Malaysia to pursue not a greener Pasteur or a flourishing career but a different aspect of my life. It was a strike of luck that I was able to find work and a bonus to be accepted in a company based in Malaysia.
I have appreciated both being part of the GWM Performance and the opportunities that have been provided to me during my stay with the project. It is with a heavy heart that I have to leave the team on a time that we have already established a much better relationship with the client and client team.

Sincerely,

Zarah Agcaoili

Monday, January 17, 2011

Rise above the challenge

   Last year's performance feedback didn't go in to my favor. I went on a vacation during the performance feedback evaluation and I never had the chance to have it discussed with my manager prior me leaving for a month long vacation.

  I knew I didn't do well because all odds are against me however, i did not expect a much lower rating. When my manager discussed it with me, she said that my counterpart did not give me a good feedback. It was a heartbreaking discussion as my counterpart were more to blame of the issues we encounter. But since I was not around to defend myself, he saved his ass by putting all the blame on me.

  Now, we have a new counterpart. And my manager saw that there was a great improvement on the work quality we deliver. I hope she realized that her mistake was to put her trust more on the counterpart's (the old one anyway) word rather than hear me out. She is now trying to make amends by giving me performance monetary points for all the good jobs we have this year. In total she already gave me 200 points.

  Had I put my frustration first, I would not have rise above this challenge. I have to prove that I deserve better rating than what she gave me. Keeping my fingers crossed for more oppotunities to come my way.

  Good luck to me!

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Year of the Rabbit: 2011

Source: http://www.moonslipper.com/chinese.html

The Rat
Rats are charming, elegant and clever. They can be a bit gossipy and prone to being distracted. They’re also thrifty and very good with handling money. Family and close friends are exceptionally important to them. The Rat is charming beyond words and throughout his undoubtedly long life he will always be popular and will have many friends.

Forecast for 2011 The Rat will feel glad in a lot of ways to see the end of the Year of the Tiger! There were a lot of changes and the pace was fast - not something the Rat is entirely comfortable with. The Chinese Year of the Rabbit is the opposite – its tempo will be slow and steady and the Rat must try to be patient and remain content with steady progress throughout 2011. Work will again be highlighted but this time the Rat’s experience and knowledge will be called upon, helping him to advance quite nicely in his career. April, October and November are well-starred for this. On the love and romance side of life, there could be cause for celebration during the year in the form of an engagement, wedding or birth. July, August and December and January will be particularly special months. An important aspect of 2011 for the Rat is time for personal growth, hobbies and developing skills that bring happiness. For any Rats that like to write, this year will see their creativity heightened and whether for pleasure or profit, writing is highlighted in a most positive way. Health wise, the Rat will have felt burnt out sometimes during 2010 and in 2011 his vitality will be improved. He will feel stronger and will also be taking better care of himself, maintaining a good diet and steady exercise routine.

Interesting Rat Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Garnet
Special Flower: Narcissus
Best Hours: 11 pm -1 am
Season: Winter
Horoscope Colors: Black, White, Purple


The Ox
Sturdy, earthy, no-nonsense – that’s the Ox. Affectionate and easy-going, the Ox can show a fierce temper when agitated. He is neat, tidy, quiet and studious, with a great love of his home. Music can be a great love. Family life and a loving partner are high on the Ox’s priorities. A wonderful loyal friend.
Forecast for 2011 The Ox will have grown quite a bit during 2010. Its whirlwind moments and sudden challenges meant the Ox had to adjust his thinking and change direction on a dime! Some may feel a bit low about the way things went and it’s important to look forward to 2011 and put 2010 firmly behind them. The Chinese Year of the Rabbit will be encouraging for the Ox. For those who wish to change their career or at least change the direction of it, February, March and September will bring exciting offers and progress. Romance is highlighted in a very special way this year, with unattached Oxen finding themselves in exactly the right place at the right time to meet someone very special. For those in a relationship, this will strengthen and grow. June, July and October are wonderful months for love and romance. Friendship will be important during 2011. Whether the Ox is looking for new friends or drawing on friendships he already has, it’s important that he stays socially active. March, August and December will be particularly busy socially. The Ox should take time to ensure his diet is healthy and that he is taking time to exercise and spend time outdoors. Rest and relaxation will be vital for all Oxen during the Year of the Rabbit.

Interesting Ox Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Aquamarine
Special Flower: Carnation
Best Hours: 1-3 am
Season: Winter
Horoscope Colors: Green, Yellow, Black



The Tiger
Magnetic, passionate and grand! When the Tiger does anything, it’s noticed! Indecisiveness and stubbornness can mar the sparkle of the Tiger personality. On the one hand generous, on the other hand a little mean, it’s sometimes hard to know where one stands with the Tiger. Flexible, honest and truly entertaining, one has a friend for life with a Tiger.

Forecast for 2011 Most Tigers will be feeling quite pleased and energized at the end of their own year in 2010. The Year of the Rabbit will be another positive year for them. Romantic matters are particularly to the forefront, with many born under this sign deciding to get married or to take the relationship to the next level. Single Tigers will have many chances to meet a partner with June to September particularly well aspected. If they have faced recent personal trials and tribulations, 2011 will prove to be a much brighter year. Financially, the Tiger will most likely see an increase in income, either due to a pay rise or an unexpected windfall. With careful planning and budgeting, they can enjoy this monetary increase whilst easing financial burdens. Hobbies and outdoor pursuits will also interest the Tiger this year and will provide relaxation and a social setting, both of which will suit him just fine. Travel and spending holidays with friends will be a focus during late spring and also August and September. If there is a dream location he’s always wanted to visit, this is the perfect year to do so! A house purchase or change of home could very well feature on the cards also. This will be an exciting rather than overly stressful development and Tigers should thrive in their new environment.

Interesting Tiger Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Sapphire
Special Flower: Violet
Best Hours: 3-5 am
Season: Winter
Horoscope Colors: Green, Blue, Yellow





The Rabbit
Cuddly, warm and affectionate are the attributes of the Rabbit. Mysterious and a great party-giver and host, the Rabbit enjoys being the centre of attention once in a while. The Rabbit is occasionally over cautious and can be a bit boring. He is also one of the luckiest signs in the Chinese Astrology chart.
Forecast for 2011 The Rabbit will have found the momentum during 2010 quite unsettling, little realizing that his accomplishments during the year will set him up beautifully for his own year in 2011. This will be a stunning and most favorable year for him, especially in regard to work and career. His ability to interact with others will put him in the lead for any promotions at work. Also, if the Rabbit is considering a completely different career, this is the perfect time to explore his options. Not only will the change energize him but he will feel happier than he has done in some time. March to May and October to November will be important times for career developments. Finances during the Rabbit’s own year are buzzing, with his luck running high! He may see a salary increase, receive a gift or make extra money from a hobby or entrepreneurial idea. Socially, August, September and December will be hectic! Single Rabbits could meet their significant other this year and the relationship could move very fast. Those with partners will find their relationship becomes more serious and important. Stress and worry over decisions may drain the Rabbit’s vitality during 2011 and it’s very important he gets enough rest and relaxation. He must also remember to call on friends and loved ones for support and advice during any challenging times.

Interesting Rabbit Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Pearl
Special Flower: Jonquil
Best Hours: 5-7 am
Season: Spring
Horoscope Colors: Grey, White




The Dragon
Assertive, energetic and talented are all words to describe the Dragon personality. On the other hand, the Dragon has a tendency to be condescending and tactless without realising it. In the Chinese Zodiac, they are born under the sign of luck. They generally enjoy robust health and tend to be very successful in anything they turn their hand to.
Forecast for 2011 The Chinese Year of the Rabbit will be a more balanced and secure year than 2010 for all Dragons. They will have loved the exciting nature of the Tiger year, but now it’s time to take it down a notch or two! Many of them will have had changes in their job and the steadier tempo of 2011 will help them to settle in and possibly even go for promotions. July, September and November will give Dragons a chance to reassess what they’re doing and what direction they now want to go in. The opportunity to retrain or take night classes should be considered seriously. The foundations they now lay will greatly enhance their prospects in 2012 – their own year. Romance is beautifully starred with opportunities to meet new people all through the year but particularly during April, June, September and December. On the whole, this will be a positive and happy year for Dragons. The monetary situation will improve for most and their eye for a bargain will be particularly keen. Travel is also highlighted during the Rabbit year and time spent with friends and loved ones will be especially valued. Breaks during April and May or September will prove to be memorable. Hobbies and talents should be pursued and enjoyed as they will provide great pleasure and relaxation during 2011 and could lead to other interesting opportunities.

Interesting Dragon Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Amethyst
Special Flower: Sweet Pea
Best Hours: 7-9 am
Season: Spring
Horoscope Colors: Black, Gold



The Snake

Intelligent and highly intuitive are two of the Snake’s many fine qualities. He makes an amusing and romantic friend with a definite flirtatious streak. When challenged or criticized he can be a sore loser. The Snake is very lucky with money and is fond of the odd bet or two. He is quick-witted and enjoys reading, music and occasionally the paranormal side of life.
Forecast for 2011 Snakes like to have plans and follow their itinerary in an orderly fashion – 2010 threw all this out the window! The Chinese Year of the Rabbit will be a much more appealing year to the Snake and he will feel back on track, albeit still busy and full of activity. The focus of 2011 for the Snake will be to make sure he is doing something he likes, something that allows him to express his creativity and talents and something that he excels at. February, March and October will provide windows of opportunities in his career to achieve this. However, he must put in the effort and make his intentions known, or the windows may close again. Financially, things are looking much brighter for the Snake and with planning and saving, this will be an excellent year. Home decorating and refurbishments are highlighted this year and time at home with family and friends will be treasured. Romance and friendship will be superb in 2011 and he will get much enjoyment from social gatherings, especially ones connected with work. A word of warning for all Snakes – there is the possibility of a lapse in judgement or a piece of harmful gossip – this could lead to awkwardness. Tread carefully! Healthwise, Snakes should take care to have a balanced lifestyle or their energy could suffer.

Interesting Snake Facts
Zodiac Stone: Opal
Special Flower: Passionflower
Best Hours: 9-11 am
Season: Spring
Horoscope Colors: Brown Gold, Green

The Horse
Fun, charming and attractive sums up the Horse’s traits perfectly. They love parties and crowds and being the centre of attention. They can also be egotistical, hotheaded and impatient. The Horse is a considerate and protective friend and partner and when in his company, there will always be excitement around the next corner.
Forecast for 2011 The spotlight will have been on the Horse for much of 2010 with his sparkling company and friendship being frequently in demand. In 2011, the focus for the Horse will be on his career, with unexpected developments and promotional opportunities on the cards. He should watch events carefully, for when an opening occurs he will need to act fast and be alert. April, May and October and November will be encouraging months for moving ahead in work or indeed finding a new job altogether. Health and well-being will be on the minds of many Horses in the Chinese Year of the Rabbit and it’s a perfect time to re-think fitness routines and diet. Socially, as always, the Horse will be busy, with May to September and December being full of fun opportunities with friends. Attached Horses will fare better than single ones in 2011. If a new romance is on horizon, the Horse would be well advised to relax and let the relationship develop slowly and without rushing. March, September and October are prime months for finding someone special. The Horse is an adventurous soul by nature and may do some travelling to far-flung places in the Year of Rabbit. Financially there is a definite chance for the Horse to increase his earnings over the year and he should make every effort to manage his money carefully.

Interesting Horse Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Golden Topaz
Special Flower: Rose
Best Hours: 11am-1pm
Season: Summer
Horoscope Colors: Orange, White, Yellow




The Goat Graceful and optimistic, kind and easy going, would describe a Goat personality. They can also be petulant and discontented, likely to throw the towel in at the beginning of a problem. They can be charming without revealing their true feelings. The Goat is very talented and imaginative and can turn his hand to most creative pursuits.
Forecast for 2011 The Year of the Rabbit starts off brilliantly for those Goats seeking employment or wanting a career change. By networking and keeping his ear to the ground, some exciting possibilities will come up. March, April and September are well-starred for work advancement and positive changes. The past couple of years have been challenging for the Goat and 2011 will be much more upbeat, positive and happy. There will be many chances over the year to make new friends and attend social outings – just what the Goat needs. The support and friendship of others will be very important to him this year and give him the encouragement and confidence he needs. The single Goat will find 2011 an excellent and thrilling year for romance and those who already have a partner may be thinking of taking it to a more serious level. February, August and September will most likely present opportunities for romantic encounters, but the whole year will bring happy social occasions. The Goat must look after his own health this year, ensuring that he is getting enough rest and relaxation. It’s going to be a busy year, in the nicest possible way, but it could also be a bit draining on his vitality. Financially, things are looking much brighter than in previous years and many Goats will have fun buying bits and pieces for their home or taking short trips.

Interesting Goat Facts
Zodiac Stone: Emerald
Special Flower: Larkspur
Best Hours: 1-3 pm
Season: Summer
Horoscope Colors: Green, Blue





The Monkey
The Monkey is playful, lively, fun and a quick thinker. They get bored very easily and find it hard to settle down to doing any one thing. The Monkey can also be vain and offhand. They are ambitious and usually very good with investing money. With their quick wit and wonderful sense of humour, they are a great party guest. The Monkey’s life will never be dull and predictable!
Forecast for 2011 The Monkey will find 2011 very much to his liking with plans and goals moving ahead smoothly and as anticipated. For Monkeys involved in creative work such as writing or art, this will be a particularly inspirational year and their work will be highly regarded. The Chinese Rabbit Year will offer some brilliant promotion opportunities and by being proactive and alert, the Monkey will reap the benefits. For those seeking work, attention to detail when applying for jobs will open up significant windows of opportunity. February, September and November should be outstanding months for their career. Friends and family will provide many happy and memorable occasions during 2011 and there may be one or two special celebrations. March to May and December will be very active socially for most Monkeys. For single Monkeys, there should be quite a few opportunities to meet someone special through outings with friends or at work. In addition, trips to art exhibitions, museums or other cultural venues will prove delightful for many Monkeys. The Chinese Year of the Rabbit would be an auspicious year for him to follow up on self improvement ideas he may have been considering for awhile. A fresh look at his fitness routine, diet and how he unwinds, could do him the world of good. 2011 will be the year for the Monkey to move forward, leaving any disappointments and regrets behind. It can be a most satisfying and enjoyable year for him.

Interesting Monkey Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Peridot
Special Flower: Gladiola
Best Hours: 3-5 pm
Season: Summer
Horoscope Colors: White, Violet, Green




The Rooster
The Rooster is always popular, extravagant and creative. They can be brutally honest and generally like being showered with attention. They are wonderfully loyal friends and also give advice freely – whether they are asked for it or not! Family means the world to the Rooster and they are one of the most loyal signs in the Chinese zodiac.

Forecast for 2011 The Year of the Rabbit will be a much quieter year than 2010 for the Rooster. However, the Rooster will have to curb his natural exuberance and enthusiasm just a bit in 2011 and practice some patience and common sense. On the work front, it will be vital for the Rooster to work closely with his colleagues and practice his networking skills. This will stand to him during the months of March, April, November and December when unexpected developments happen . All the work he does now on the career front will pay dividends in 2012, the Chinese Year of the Dragon. The Rooster should also consider any opportunities he may have to study or for training. This would go extremely well for him and again benefit him greatly later on in the year. On the social and romantic side of life, this will be a much more settled and quiet year, which will be to many a Rooster’s liking. March, July and August look to be the most active on the social scene. A word of warning though – the Rooster must take care to temper his words with friends and not be too harsh. A quarrel or end of a close relationship could result. Financially, the Rooster may have a few home-related expenses this year with repairs, decorating and renovations. It would be wise to manage any project sensibly and shop around for the best deal; Chinese Rabbit years can be expensive for all signs. On the whole, 2011 looks like being a pleasurable and encouraging year for all Roosters.

Interesting Rooster Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Citrine
Special Flower: Aster
Best Hours: 5-7 pm
Season: Autumn
Horoscope Colors: Orange, Green



The Dog
The Dog is wonderfully hard worker, a perfectionist and someone who loves the small details. He is also a bit anti-social, pessimistic and stubborn. They are one of the most honest and trustworthy signs of the Chinese zodiac and will always go to bat for a worthy cause. The Dog is a fantastic listener and his advice is usually very intuitive.
Forecast for 2011 The Chinese Year of the Rabbit has shining possibilities for all Dogs. The main emphasis will be on their personal life. If attached, the Dog will find their relationship grow and become much more meaningful on all levels. Single Dogs will be particularly lucky in finding someone very special. All social occasions will carry the possibility of meeting someone new, with April, June, August and December being the busiest months on their social calendar. Career-wise, the Dog will see the jobs expanding or promotional opportunities arising unexpectedly. It is crucial he discusses any worries or ideas with friends and family. Increased confidence and self-respect will garner the respect of work colleagues. The most favorable months on the work front are March and September to November. Seize the moment when it presents itself! Financially, the Dog can look forward to an improvement in his situation. This will allow him to indulge his hobbies and perhaps take a trip or two. In the Year of the Rabbit, the Dogs must guard against lost, delayed or incorrect documentation. Make doubly sure that everything is as it should be on all paperwork this year. The Dog will have a renewed interest in health, fitness and outdoor pursuits this year, which will greatly benefit his vitality and zest for life. If he can leave the past couple of challenging years behind him, 2011 will be a most gratifying and happy year.

Interesting Dog Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Diamond
Special Flower: Marigold
Best Hours of the day 7-9 pm
Season: Autumn
Horoscope Colors: Silver and Red


The Pig
The Pig is an innocent, sweet and lovable personality. They can also be quite melancholy and over-sensitive. The Pig loves the company of others, and adores parties, gossip and chit chat. They are highly intelligent, but prefer to keep this side of their nature under wraps. The Pig does not care that much for money, but is one of the Chinese zodiac signs that is very lucky.
Forecast for 2011 The Pig loves to have fun and socialize with family and friends and on this front, the Year of the Rabbit will not disappoint him! He made not have been the life of the party recently, but in 2011 his social network will greatly increase with April, May, July and October being the most enjoyable months. Single Pigs could very well meet a romantic partner through a friend or at a family gathering. The Pig parties hard and works hard and in the Year of the Rabbit he will be bringing in the rewards for all his hard work. For any Pigs who wish to change jobs or who want to climb up the promotional ladder, there will be quite a few opportunities this year to do either. But they must act quickly, ensuring they have made all the right enquiries and connections. March, April and September will see work developments happen, but they must be ready to pounce at any time during the year. The Pig will be feeling good in 2011 and would like all manner of wonderful things to happen – all at once! He must learn to pace himself and go along with the more leisurely speed of the Rabbit year. Otherwise, he may burn himself out. Overall, 2011 will be a progressive and enjoyable time for all Pigs.

Interesting Pig Facts
Zodiac Stone: Ruby
Special Flower: Chrysanthemum
Best Hours: 9-11 pm
Season: Autumn
Horoscope Colors: Purple, Red, White

Family Reunion



     January 10 is my grandfather's birthday. We thought it would be the perfect date to have our family reunion.
  
     We had our pre-celebration on the 9th of January 2011. We went to a resort in San Mateo, Rizal. We spent the whole day swimming, eating, picture taking, chatting and many more activities.

    We had our dinner at Yakimix in Greenbelt 3. It seems so hard to part ways after dinner as we had our picture taking at the Greenbelt park. As we said our good-byes, we have in our mind that this is one of the best evening that we have. All families are present. It was not an Agcaoili family nor Hatton family nor Galsim family nor Buraga family. We labeled ourselves as ABANA family as the gathering was done in honor to my grandpa: Nicanor T. Abana Sr. 



     

Thursday, January 06, 2011

Together Again

    It was December of 2007 when I left for an onshore assignment in Switzerland. In March 2008, my sister Ann left for Canada. I returned to the Philippines in April 2008. My sister and I didnt get the chance to say good bye to each other personally.

  In May 2009, my parents and I travelled to Bangkok in order for them to get a travel history. In February 2010, we tried applying for a Canadian Visitor's visa so we can visit my sister and other relatives. My parents were denied of the visa and I know it broke their hearts because they would not be able to see my sister. Since I was the only one who was issued the visa, I went to Canada to visit my sister. After more than a year I saw her and I realized how much I miss my little sister.

  December 2010, the family on my mother side decided to have a family reunion. My sister was not supposed to be home as her residency visa is not yet issued not to mention the cost. But I guess, God found ways to make it happen so she can spend the holidays with us.

  The last picture we took as family was years ago. And thank God we were able to have one again on New Year's Eve... We are together again as a Family.