A half year report
May 3, 2008
gargamel
Over six months of silence. Here’s a quick replay of the highlights, to those who’ve been wondering:
Vodafone Christmas party, visit Jess’ or Yen’s sites if you’d like to see pictures. A themed party. Creative and quite controversial, if you’re the conservative type - Guilty Pleasures. A building was converted into “pleasure rooms”. What secretly gives you pleasure that you’re embarrassed into admitting? A Coronation Street addict? A mouthful of lollies and donuts? A harem of lovely people? Bingo socials (I won a round, can you believe that?!). My fave, most definitely, is the Massage Room!
Christmas holidays in Coromandel, I’ve posted photos here but have I gushed about its raw beauty? Coastline as far as the eye could see, blue skies enveloping the landscape and the scent, sights and sound of the ocean filling my days with colour, mystery and adventure.
Rangitoto hike (and body aches afterwards)! Tiring if you’re unfit like me, but hey, with amazing 360 degrees view of the city on top of a dormant volcano, how can I complain?
Wellington trip, which coincided with the International Festival of Arts. Tickled the intellect, aroused the senses. Watched a play directed by Cate Blanchett, a look into forbidden love that would never go away, and lingers despite the wanting to forget. Did the usual touristy things: visited the the Beehive, Te Papa Museum (adored the contemporary art and installation sections!), Wellington’s oldest Anglican church (which is also one of NZ’s most historic), sculptures dotting the city, gardens and natural reserves. Truly memorable and inspiring.
I’m also re-discovering Auckland, seeing and living it like a real JAFA (just another friendly Aucklander, that is)! Went to see the Chinese lantern festival. Not quite Las Vegas, if you’re after the bright lights. But this is what makes Auckland so special. Everything was so charming and personal. People were taking their time, soaking in the experience rather than breezing through. There is a genuine appreciation of living in a village.
Following trails that lead to gardens and parks. I can’t believe how many there are in the city. And these pockets of greenery never fail to comfort.
Developing an interest in golf. Yeah, I know, it’s soo not me! One thing I’m sure of though, a lot of interesting people play golf. So far, I’ve met a Sky TV presenter, a racing car simulation inventor, a publisher and jeweller through golf.
The community is keeping me busy… sort of. I’ve met most of the “FIlipino elders”. Heard them talk about their love and passion for our people. I’ve seen volunteers in action who put in hours to serve whole heartedly. The Bayanihan Spirit is alive and thriving in New Zealand!
Endless partying with friends. (My expanding waistline kinda gives that away!) Gelmar’s sisig, Tita Ces’ roast chicken, Ate Leonor’s bistek, este Tapa, at kung anu-ano pa!
Oh and by the way, I’m back at Velocity, a design agency in Parnell. I worked there three years ago, and one of the company directors asked me to work for them again. I signed a ten month contract with them so I can still spend time on Tap Communications, my marketing consultancy business.. I’d still like to grow it, but hey, who said Rome was built in a day, right?
My Manay Malou is pregnant! I am so so happy for her. I wish I could visit her in LA when she gives birth in September.
What else? Hmmm, how do you capture six months of memories? It was an exciting ride. It had its moments of madness. But, I’m happy to report, it has been mostly, bliss.
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