2 in a row

Whooooooo!, it's been 2 straight years that I'd been celebrating Christmas far from home. Well honestly, seems not a big deal for me. For so many things that I experienced for the past 5 years or more, my heart became hard as rock and any missed special occasions or family gatherings just makes me stronger.

I just don't know how I became so stubborn. If Christmas wishes do come true, I wish that all my loved ones gets all the good things in life. When I mean all, it includes everything from A to Z. If that wish comes true, I can die any day, any time.

I missed the Lechon manok, Lechon baboy, Filipino-styled spaghetti and all the stuffs that we Filipinos put on our table during Noche Buena. With my current situation right now, I don't know when can I experience Noche Buena, the real Noche Buena.

My quiet moment and a loud 2008

Every month, I go to Abu Dhabi once or twice to visit my brother who works and resides there. As scheduled, I will go there tomorrow after office hour. Usually, the trip takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. So if the bus leaves at 7:00pm, I'll be in Abu Dhabi between 9:00pm and 9:30pm. It's a bit tiring and (costly) but I always make it a point to go there to see my brother.

We are both new to this country and it may take another year for us to fully adjust and shook off the so-called 'home-sick'. Jaw-dropping price-offs or discounted items are non-stop in Abu Dhabi. From laptops to mobile phones to game systems to branded shirts/shoes and etc. It's a haven for every shopholic.

The long trip is my quiet moment, it is the time where I can think of my plans and focus on the things that needs to be done. The bus or taxi has become my sanctuary. It is where I can never be disturbed. No distractions or whatsoever.

I kinda' get tired of this routine sometimes, my body is not getting any younger anymore, I have scoliosis so my lower back sometimes reacts to long hours of sitting. I am giving myself 4 more months before quitting my current job and either transfer to Abu Dhabi or just go back home. 2008 will be a busy and challenging year for me. Rejuvenation is a must.