My Last Day at EPhil

I opened my eyes and realized my alarm clock hasn’t rung yet. I glanced at the wall clock and it says, 6:45AM. I decided to get up anyway. As I was beginning to say my morning prayer, I felt sad…yes, it’s been a month since I submitted my resignation letter. Time flies so fast. I didn’t even notice it was already my last day at Enterworks.

As I was riding the shuttle on my way to the office, I didn’t read nor sleep just like what I usually do. I just watched the sceneries we passed by and wondered how my day would be like. I kept on asking God to remove the sadness away. It seemed my travel time was so short. I just noticed we were already at Skyway-Amorsolo exit.

I was walking so slowly from Salcedo going to the office. When I was already near the building, I told myself, “Doths, you can choose to be happy inspite of the sadness. Just enjoy and be thankful for whatever time is left.”

I got in the elevator and as I was going out, I took a deep breath and tried my best to smile when I saw Nikki. I swiped my proximity card, and realized it’s my last time to do that.

My day was basically spent to back-up my files and pack my stuff. There’s quite a lot for me to pack, hence the 4 large paper bags. But before I did that, I took a photo of my desk first, as a souvenir. =)

My Desk =)
My cute stuff, & a close up of the mini sand box I made which I already gave to Mommy Butch as souvenir
As promised, Ma’am Mimi took us out for lunch - a despedida for me and a welcome for Cookie. We all enjoyed the “eat-all-you-can” at Kamayan/Dads/Saisaki. It was also a great time for us to enjoy each others’ company with all the “chikahan”.

Lunch at Dad's
Then suddenly, the singers approached our table and asked us if we have any requested songs. One of us said, “Chocolate” and the others also agreed. Hmmm… was it the QA’s theme song? Hehehe…Obviously, we enjoyed their performace. You can see some of us moving with the music, and probably if we weren’t eating that time, we could have done a dance number!

Pasaway si Ken...hehehe!
But it didn’t end there, because they asked us for one more song. This time we can’t think of any. One of us said, “Basta yung masaya.” And then the singers began to play, a happy song it was. At first we weren’t sure what they were playing even if it was Tagalog. Ma’am Mimi was asking me for the title of the song. Then I finally figured out…it was the song from the Rejoice commercial, “Sumusunod sa galaw mo”. Just in time for the chorus part, I demonstrated to her how it’s being danced. Well, not really… just the hair-flipping part. Hehehe… We all laughed and she said, “Wow! Memorize!” But I guess they played that song for Tabel (a.k.a “The Hair”) right, Tabel? =)

It was also during our lunch that Ma’am Mimi announced about the plans of sending 2 Developers and 1 QA to Ashburn to work there for 6 months. We were surprised at this announcement. But I was all the more surprised when she said, “Dapat si Doths yun, if she would stay.” Wow…pressure!

We we’re all so full and also glad to have free dolphin souvenirs, thanks to the fruit shakes we ordered. It was already past 2pm when we left the restaurant.

When we got back to the office, Ma’am Mimi talked with me, Mommy Weng, Cynthia and Joy regarding the Ashburn trip. She asked each of us if we’re interested. Mommy Weng and Joy had their own reasons why they can’t go. Once again, Ma’am Mimi asked me if it’s something that interests me. I honestly told her that I appreciate the offer and it even sounds tempting, but I’ve already made my decision. Still, she said I still have until the end of the day to change my mind. At the back of my mind I was saying, “Oh please, don’t make this harder for me…” I was glad that Cynthia and Ken showed interest to the offer. I know they’re both good and whoever gets sent to Ashburn would really be able to do a great job there. I just know it’s not for me. Who knows? Maybe someday I’ll be sent to Paris. Hehehe…

I spent the rest of the afternoon still fixing my things. Finally, when I was done I decided to send my “thank you” email for Enteworks. I was successful not to cry while doing this, just teary-eyed. I got some touching replies from emails, YM messages and even post-it notes. Just want to thank all of you for those messages, for the well wishes and the prayers. I don’t want to say farewell, I just don’t like saying goodbyes. So, I’ll see you around, promise!

My day didn’t end there. Joy invited us for dinner as a celebration for the award she got. It was my first time to eat at Oody's and I find most of the food we ordered great as well.

Dinner at Oody's

After the dinner, they said we’d be going to Vodka Bar. Hmmm…another “first-time” for me. It’s quite early when we got there, so there were still few people inside. We occuppied a nice couch area. They ordered for me a drink called “Vodka Sour”. They’ve been wanting to see me do this for the longest time. But drinking is just really not my thing. I don’t like the smell and don’t like the taste. They promised it doesn’t smell nor taste that bad and it won’t even make me drunk. Well, I just had to be sure of that. So there, finally after four years they were successful to make me drink! I tasted a little and it tastes bitter just as I expected. (Oh no…I just hope my dad will not be to read this blog entry. Hhmm…you see, it’s hard to be a Pastor’s daughter sometimes. Hehehe…)

Shaui, Chel, Me, Mikko & Franco (at the back), Boyette, Don, Augs

We were already staying there for quite some time enjoying the music and they were wondering because it seemed my drink doesn’t get finished. I think I only had 5 or 6 sips. I just can’t finish it, I’m sorry. Fortunately, Dennis was kind enough to finish it for me. Thank you!

Just havin' fun!

When it was getting late, more people started coming inside the bar and it’s really getting crowded. They started to dance and it looked like they’re really enjoying the night. I did too as I watched them and take their pictures. I thought I could escape the dance part. I was wrong. They literally dragged me from my seat. Waaahhh! Even if I know how to dance, I just didn’t know why I can’t dance there. Sorry again, guys. Maybe I’m just not used to dancing at crowded places. I need the whole dance floor. Hehehe…

One of the boys =)

I arrived at my cousin's house at 2AM already. Thanks to Tabel, who made sure I get home safe. I was alone in the house again because my cousin needed to work overnight. Before I went to bed, I reflected on how my day went. I know it started a bit sad and low. But as the day progressed, I felt the gladness within. I realized, God really has a way of making us feel happy and He's there to lift our spirit everytime we feel sad. Reminds me of the words of a song which says, "You have turned my mourning into dancing...You have turned my sorrow into joy..."

Yes, it's the end of my stay at EPhil. But it doesn't mean the end of the friendship that I have with the people there. I will see you again... promise! Afterall, I'm just a building away. =)

Coincidence?

We had our cell group at Coffee Beanery & Tea Leaf (Greenbelt) yesterday night. Last monday, our meeting was postponed due to the transport strike. I was happy to be able to attend cell again and to be with Chay, Ms. Miget and 3 other friends (Lujene, Shiela and Ana).

I had to order Chai latte tea to soothe my throat. I was on the verge of having colds. I really don't like the feeling in my throat. I even lost count already how many times I sneezed. =(
Thanks to the tea, I felt a little better.

Chay lead our discussion. Our topic for the past weeks was about the 10 commandments. Last night, we're already on the 6th commandment. The title of our lesson was "Anger, Hatred and Murder". Quite a sensitive and heavy topic, huh.

We were able to share with one another some situations that caused us to be angry and even kill those people we hate in our minds. We also mentioned what we usually do or how we usually react when we are angry. Hmmm... we had interesting stories to tell!

Our lesson was indeed very applicable to each one of us, especially when it comes to dealing with people and relationships - family, relatives, friends, colleagues, strangers, etc. Chay shared some verses and explained how God is really not pleased when we plant hatred and nurture anger in our hearts towards other people. Too bad, I wasn't able to take notes so I can't include here the specific points we discussed. Hopefully, I can borrow our workbook from Chay and I'll add those points here tomorrow. Overall, we had a great discussion and the lesson really pierced into each one's heart.

Our cell usually ends with what we call the "application question". Last night, the question was "Do you have any hate/anger towards a person. why? what will you do about it?"

As the first person in our group was sharing her answer, a man occuppied the table beside ours. The man looked familiar to me. I looked at him and he was also looking at me. He seemed to be hesitating to greet me so I smiled and waved at him. Well, I couldn't be wrong. He's my professor back in college - he's one of those I used to hate before.

I won't narrate anymore why I was angry at him during my thesis days. That was a kinda long story and besides that's past already. But if you really want to know, you can ask my thesis mates, Tabel and Joy. They'd be happy to tell you about it. hehehe...

Then it was my turn to answer the application question. No, it wasn't about my professor that I shared about. (hehehe) Not just because he's sitting right next to our table, but because honestly, I've already forgiven him. I just choose not to plant hatred nor nurture my anger anymore.

As I left the coffee shop, I even passed by him and had a little chat. I was happy that I could just talk to him that way, without feeling any heaviness in my heart. He even gave me a handshake as we parted.

Now, going back to my question... was that just coincidence? Hmm.. maybe not. I think it was God's way of reminding me about the importance of forgiveness and another equally important thing - forgetting.

Summer Outing at Montemar Beach Club, Bataan

Yes, it's Summer Outing time once again! This is one of the events I always look forward at Enterworks each year. It's really a great time to relax and get away from the stressful days in the office...to just feel the warmth of the sun, the gentle sea breeze, the fine sand, good food and enjoy the company of my friends and colleagues.

Saturday, April 16 was the big day. I had to wake up at 4AM to prepare myself and arrive on time (5:30AM) at the Manila Bay harbor (CCP) where Mt. Samat Ferry Express is located - the boat that will take us to Orion, Bataan. I took a cab from Pedro Gil because my bag is quite heavy and besides it's still quite dark. Good enough, I arrived at the port at around 5:30AM and some of my officemates were already there.

Mt. Samat Express

Believe it or not, it was my first time to ride in a ferry boat! I thought it would be scary and would make me feel dizzy. I immediately looked for a life jacket as soon as I got a seat. (really scared, huh! heheh..) Good enough, I found out it was just under my seat. Contrary to what I expected, the boat ride was so smooth though there were couple of times that I actually felt the waves. But it was even an enjoyable experience, as though I'm riding a roller coaster. (cool!)

I wasn't able to see much of the sights from where I was seated. I was hoping to see some jumping dolphins and fast swimming sharks. Hehe.. kidding! I love the dolphins, never mind the sharks! Oh well, good enough there were televisions around the boat. Somehow I enjoyed watching, but then I still felt sleepy. I was able to take a nap, and in no time I just noticed we were already at Orion, Bataan. Yipeee! Just as it was the first time for me to ride a ferry boat, it was also my first time to be in Bataan. Hmmm...Maybe I should kiss the ground then! (hehehe!) I just can't wait to see the resort!

Two buses were waiting to take us to Montemar Beach Club. I got the chance to marvel at the beauty of the mountains and the rice fields as well as the other great sights as we travel. I always love it when I feel so close to nature. Had a chat with Joe (who happened to be my seatmate in the bus) about things in the office. The woman sitting on the other side started to talk to me. I found out she was doing an occular inspection for their company. They also plan to go to Montemar for their summer outing. We too, had a nice chat and she even gave me her calling card when we parted.

A Glorious Mountain

In less than an hour, we were already entering Montemar. A nice area was reserved for us fronting the pool. The kids who were with us seem to want to jump immediately and take a splash! Ok I admit, maybe not just the kids. hehehe..=)

The area reserved for Enterworks

Me, Rene and Tabel, upon arrival at the resort =)
Cj, David, Mike, Arman and Julius

Ruthie, Dax, Mikee, Cherry and Ms. Miget

After settling our things, I went with Shaui and Kendz to take a look at the beach. We saw some of the guys already playing basketball. As we walked past the basketball court, We were welcomed by the fine sand. I was amazed at the vastness of the beach area. There were many other companies that day but still it doesn't feel crowded. That for me is a good thing. As we were nearing the shore, I could already see the clear blue waters. Shaui and Kendz already wanted to go for a swim, but then we realized we still had to change our clothes. And besides, the morning snack was already being served. Yehey! It's chow time.

We went back to our area and had spaghetti, bread and softdrinks for merienda. We changed to our swim clothes immediately after eating (hmm..not really that excited, huh!=P) Without wasting any more precious time, Shaui, Kendz, Nikki and I headed to the beach at last! Tony saw us coming and took some pictures before we finally immersed into the waters. Actually, the cameras just never stopped clicking to capture every moment of that beautiful day.

Me and Shaui

Shaui, Kendz, Meeh and the ever project, Nikki! =)
The water felt cold and so refreshing especially on a hot summer day. I had great fun moments with almost everyone. Mang Rudy was kind enough to even teach us to swim. I tried to be a good student, but I guess a day was just not enough for me to learn. Maybe I need to hire Mang Rudy as my personal swimming instructor (hehehe!) Ate Ning and I had a swimming race, even if we both didn't know how to swim (how we looked? that I leave to your imagination.)

Enjoying the cool, refreshing water! =)

But even if I can't really go somewhere deeper, I still had a wonderful time being with my friends and colleagues (who can't go to the deep parts as well.. kidding!) But seriously, it was a nice time to chat with almost everyone especially those that I haven't really talked to often, like Cj, Mike and David. I borrowed goggles from Mommy Weng and I had the chance to see some fish. Though they were not as colorful as those we have seen at Eagle Point last year, Juwan (Mommy Weng's eldest son) and I enjoyed snorkling. We even tried to catch some of the fish with our bare hands. Expectedly, we were not successful and so we just got contented watching them. Tabel and Jin had so much fun burying Franco in the sand. Maybe the kid thought of him as a monster (hehehe...peace Franco!)

Posing in the sand
Group picture in the sand

We expected to take our lunch at exactly 12nn, but unfortunately lunch wasn't served yet. So some of us just took a swim at the pool while waiting. Others had a great time singing (thanks to the videoke!) Kendz and I went to the kid's playground. Oh...it looks like we missed our childhood days badly and so we tried to reminisce as we played at the see-saw and swing. (aaaww..) Finally, lunch was served. We had a sumptuous lunch since most of our stomachs were already growling. Nice lunch!

Enjoying our lunch

Lala, Augs, Chel, Jojo, Raz and Don

Jay, Kendz, Leo, Randall & his wife, Shaui & Nikki

It was a free time for everyone after lunch. Some slept, jammed, took a swim in the pool, tried the hanging bridge (I regret that I wasn't able to try this one. huhuh..), took pictures around the resort, played "mahjong", etc. It was announced that there will be game activities scheduled at 2pm, such as tug-of-war, beach volleyball and relays. So we went to the beach area at 2pm. Unfortunately, the sand was so hot and we found it impossible to play beach volleyball and relay. But we pushed through with the tug-of-war. We just played it near the waters where the sand is not that hot.

The Hanging Bridge

Mahjong time!

And so, we were divided into 2 teams. Best of three. There! another entry in my "first-time" list, it was the first time I ever played tug-of-war. Our team work and strategy was great, and so we won in the first round. Hurray! But admittedly, my hands hurt a little after that round. During the second round, the referee told our group to give up one member to match the count of the other group. I decided to be the one to leave. Unfortunately, our team lost the next two rounds. Some of my group mates were teasing me saying, "Si Doths kase umalis eh". It got me thinking, was I really the lucky charm?! (hehehe... feeling!) We just had to accept our fate.

Our team exerting every effort to win!

The other team matching our strength!
When it was almost 3pm, Ms. Miget, Ate Ning and I decided to go back to our area since it was announced that the bus will leave at 4pm. But there were still others left in the beach, and even in the pool. Everyone was really trying to make the most of their time and so the fun just continued. I was able to see the other areas of the resort while having a nice chat with Arman. I saw the pool on the other side looks more inviting. But I guess it's exclusive for overnight guests. We had our afternoon merienda at around 3:30. Pancit and bread were served. I had to eat quick since I still need to take a shower. Luckily, I was just in time for boarding the bus.

Nice view =)
The other pool

While walking towards the bus, I took one last look around the beautiful resort. If only I could, I'd really wish that time would just stop and allow all of us to stay longer in that beautiful place. There's just so many things to do and to see, in so little time. But still, I'm grateful for being given the chance to be there with my Enterworks Family.

Leaving Bataan...

As I was seated in the bus and looking at the sceneries we passed by, I smiled and just thanked God for the wonderful day that we all had. I can't hide my sadness, though. Knowing that it's gonna be my last summer outing with them as an official employee. But then I thought, "Why should I be sad? I can still join them next year...as a guest!" Somehow that made me feel a little better. At 5pm, we were already at the port. The ferry ride was smooth just like the one we had in the morning. An hour passed, and were back in Manila.

It was quite a tiring, but a wonderful, fun-filled day for me. I felt so blessed. Indeed, it was a day that I shall never forget...

To leave? or not to leave?

March 22, I got a call from the company where I applied as QA Specialist. It was the HR Manager informing me that they were willing to give me my asking salary. I can't believe what I was hearing! I was happy and yet sad...

Back in December last year, a thought just came to my mind - yes, it's about looking for another job. Don't get me wrong, it's not that I don't like my current job anymore. I've always been thankful for the job that I have. But then, I still prayed about God's plan for my career on the coming year - 2005. I asked Him that if it's His will for me to move into another company: First, it would be easy for me to find a job, easily pass the interview and get the compensation package that I want. Second, that I would still be able to spend my birthday at Enterworks. Third, that I would still be able to join the summer outing.

January came, a good friend of mine told me that the company where her husband works was in need of a QA specialist. She encouraged me to apply for the position. Initially, I was really not interested. Everytime she would ask for my resume, I'd always say I wasn't able to update it. Oh yes, I made up a lot of reasons to myself. First, my resume was last updated 3 years ago (great!). Second, I haven't been interviewed all my life, since I worked as an OJT before and then absorbed after graduation to work in my current company. I had a lot of fears and doubts about myself that's why I didn't want to take the risk of applying for the position.

Because of my friend's persistence, I finally gave her my resume. But it was still not that presentable. She was very kind enough to revise it for me. And so, I had my first ever interview last March 14. I was quite surprised about myself because I didn't feel so nervous during the interiew. The frech boss who interviewed me was kind. He's actually the one who did most of the talking. I was also interviewed by the QA lead.

Two days after, I received a call from that company asking me to report the next day. I thought I would have another interview. Well yes, I did. But it was not what I expected. It was an interview by the HR manager, asking me just a few questions. Afterwards, she informed me that they were qualifying me for the position and she'd be explaining to me the offer. Wow! I really can't believe I got the job. At the end of our discussion, I negotiated for my salary. She told me that she would give me a call during the day to inform me if the boss would give his approval.

She didn't call that day...not even the day after, nor the next. Several days passed and I still haven't heard from the HR. I was thinking maybe they weren't willing to give my asking salary. I was already preparing myself to be rejected...until one day, the HR finally called.

I can't sleep that night. I need to inform the HR of my decision two days after. I was happy to get the job and the compensation package. But the thought of leaving the company that has been my family and my home for more than 4 years really tears me apart. God knows how much I love them and how I would surely miss them if I decided to leave.

"What should I do?", I asked myself. I just asked God to give me wisdom to make the right decision. Most of my friends encouraged me to accept the offer and move on. They said it's for my own growth. They'd be sad but they'd be so much happy for me.

After shedding much tears, I finally followed their advice. I said to myself I really didn't have to ask God for anymore sign. As I looked back, I realized He answered my every prayer.

First, the opportunity just came without me having to look for it. I didn't encounter any difficulty in the entire application process. Somebody even fixed my resume for me. The interview went well. They gave me my desired compensation package.

Second, I'd be celebrating my 25th birthday tomorrow and I'm here with my Enterworks family. I'm excited to see my birthday card filled with their messages.

Lastly, I submitted my resignation letter yesterday and I still have a month to stay here at Enterworks which means I will still be able to join the summer outing on April 16! What more could I ask for?

I thank God for answering my prayers. Now, I just want to make the most of my time here with my Enterworks family and at the same time prepare myself as I leave this home on the 29th of April.