My 30 day log of internet living

Epilogue by tradeport

2007-07-04T12:04:00.000+08:00

Early this morning we received an email from onlineguy.

It contained a forwarding address in Palawan (where the MacBook Pro should be sent) and details to access his blog.

This is what we gathered...

As you all saw, the bet-turned-saga took a bit of a weird turn toward the end. The threats, the attempted break-ins and so on. So we did a bit of investigating. We talked to a few of his neightbors, questioned the security guard, and even tried
to locate the friends.

Apparently the friends are in hot water. One is wanted for vandalism, attempted arson and reckless endangerment. Another went off to join a religious cult in the mountains. While the third was seen at the airport. Strangely what gave him away was a paper bag he was carrying.

onlineguy, for his part, is en route to Palawan. He wants to open a bee farm somewhere around Puerto Princesa using the proceeds of the bet. And there are reports that he found love online. She is said to join him on his new venture. The bee farm was a lifelong dream of onlineguy.

(You may email him at mr_online_guy@yahoo.com)

The end

Day Thirty: OMG! They set fire to the place

2007-07-03T20:17:00.000+08:00

I don't know where it is coming froem I can only smell the smoek and what is going underneath my dooor. am now in bathroom.

can only capture a small portion of it. hope

Day Thirty: Knock knock

2007-07-03T19:38:00.000+08:00

Who's there?

Someone was incessantly knocking on my door. Who could it be? No one is at the peephole. Damn can't even ask my neighbors if they see any suspicious fellows in the hallway. Who could it be kaya? Like we don't know. Plus am not anti-multo. Am more worried about real live peeps than dead ones. The live ones can do you more harm.

Day Thirty: Tick tock

2007-07-03T18:02:00.000+08:00

Am now just waiting for the time to pass. It is taking forever. Am also now checking everything I will buy last minute.

1. Digital SLR with lenses!
2. Sound system
3. Home theater
4. Clothes
5. Collector stuff (c/o ebay and paypal!)...I am into old toys.
6. Books
7. Sporting equipment plus home gym
8. New Diving gear
9. DVD collections na orig
10.Fender stratocaster (orig)

OMG I can bid on iPhones sa eBay!

Any other suggestions?

My plan is to purposely buy all come 10 or 11 o' clock to play safe!

Don't get mad get even!

Retailers must love me now.

Day Thirty: A note to note

2007-07-03T16:04:00.001+08:00

And it reads: 'This is your last warning"

Now I am pissed off. They were obviously not liking how this is turning out and they are doing all they can to spook me. But hey - Bring it on!

Just because I am trapped like a rat here doesn't mean I have to cower to their threats.

C'mon. Let's do this, guys. Show me what you've got!

Day Thirty: A 3rd threat

2007-07-03T16:02:00.000+08:00

Was pacing aimlessly in the dining area when I heard a knock and found this 3rd note had been slipped under the door.

Day Thirty: Never too late to start

2007-07-03T12:05:00.000+08:00

Breakfast of champions. Online acquired grub.

Anyway it is the last day hence the last breakfast. Always remember to take the most important meal of the day. It will prepare you for whatever comes your way!

Day Thirty: Just need to make it through the day

2007-07-03T09:28:00.000+08:00

Last night. More like early morning was difficult since there were some other attempted break-ins. I had to catch what little snooze time in-between the attempts.

I created a little alarm system where I tied some cans to the door knob. It would create a bit of a noise whenever the knob was turned. After some attempts they realized I was on the alert. Am sure I found that idea in the inner recesses of my mind from some old movie I had seen.

What made it all the more comical was the fact that I slept next to a frying pan. Somewhat like those old stereotypical cartoon characters. Unfortunately I had no rolling pin. Now that I think of it who does?

Day Twenty Nine: Vigilance

2007-07-02T18:37:00.000+08:00

I couldn't go out to chase the would be "invaders" so I am checking the peephole every so often to see if the "cinderella of crime" would collect the slipper.

OMG! What more are they planning?

Day Twenty Nine: Home invasion

2007-07-02T18:30:00.000+08:00

I was startled by someone who was trying to break-in. They were trying to pick the lock so I ran to the door and shouted "Who is it!" That must've scared them as I heard scurrying out to the elevators. And what was left behind...

Day Twenty Nine: All quiet

2007-07-02T17:16:00.000+08:00

Have now been playing games and am strategically at my front door. It is quiet. Now unless they enter from the window (which is extremely difficult unless they were spidermen) I should have the main entrance covered. Should I move the bed here too? May be a good idea.

Day Twenty Nine: Am entertained by the most inane games

2007-07-02T12:42:00.000+08:00

Has anyone seen mcvideogame.com? Basically the SIM city type. What would you call that format? Strategy game? Anyway am so hooked on it. Wonder how many kids as well. Should be part of going after the youth market everyone says the fastfoods go after.

Well it got this old kid as well.

Day Twenty Nine: What to shop for?

2007-07-02T10:19:00.000+08:00

Am doing last minute shopping for items to stiff my so-called "friends". And to answer some questions, it looks doubtful we will all be in speaking terms agaion in this lifetime. LOL.

One YM buddy suggested I buy a car. Ebay perhaps? What else can I buy so I can have them charged to the "L-O-S-E-R-S" at the end of this all? Suggestions and where would I get them?

Day Twenty Nine: The last stretch

2007-07-02T09:20:00.000+08:00

Okay. So inspite of last nights "power" incident I awoke to a wonderful day. Yet I keep thinking what will they have up their sleeve? You can never tell since they are bound to ramp up the onslaught. They aren't going to be too happy if they lose.

Day Twenty Eight: And to make matters worse

2007-07-01T22:45:00.001+08:00

I splinter myself and have to extract it using a knife and spoon. No tweezers lying around. It isn't as if I pluck my eyebrows or armpits.

OUCH!

Well hope that when I get out of this on one piece (and hopefully win) I will get a complete first aid kit. Maybe that will be the first thing I order when I get that MacBook Pro care of (wink wink) tradeport.com.ph. See how I mentioned you guys so don't forget your offer.

Day Twenty Eight: And then this happens afterwards

2007-07-01T22:33:00.000+08:00

Luckily the building has reinstated power. They said someone tripped the breakers. "Accidentally" they claimed. I was crippled and kept from my online activity. It was in the dark for hours as sunset hit. Hearing all sorts of noise in the hallway. Laughter that drove me crazy too. Was it them? Must be. The building guy knocked and said it was "weird" since the breakers wouldn't have any reason to trip. And they couldn't just switch back on. Like a sudden intentional short was keeping them from doing so they said.

Don't you hate it when you don't have power but you look out the window and the neighbors have power. I thought the problem would last overnight. Even for a couple of days.

Day Twenty Eight: This was the second threat

2007-07-01T22:11:00.001+08:00

Essentially it reads: "Stop now if you value your life"

Day Twenty Eight: What I did today

2007-07-01T22:05:00.000+08:00

Well I spent most of my day prepping for tomorrow and did lots of last minute shopping online. Remember that is part of the plan since if I win the other party would pay for all purchases.

I also exercised a bit since I noticed 30 days or virtual activity takes its toll. Had some game time. Browsed a bit and YMed with the crew. It seemed like an ordinary day until this came at around 3pm.

Day Twenty Eight: Woke up tired

2007-07-01T10:10:00.000+08:00

Weird how you can have a deep sleep and still come out of it tired. Knackered. Maybe too much in my mind. Just a couple more days yet it feels like forever. The loons trying to sabotage don't help either. Well prepping for a couple of days with some possible excitement.

I still can't get over their threat.

Day Twenty Eight: Will sleep a bit

2007-07-01T03:24:00.000+08:00

Am tired from being up and alert the entire day. Will change my sleeping sched tomorrow so the other party will not predict my pattern. Will try to catch a bit of shut eye and get up early. Just in case.

Day Twenty Eight: This is what the letter read

2007-07-01T03:07:00.001+08:00

In case you can't read it, the note says: "Leave now if you know what is good 4 you."

Day Twenty Eight: And I saw this!

2007-07-01T03:05:00.000+08:00

I investigate what it is all about and find a letter had been slipped under my door!

And not just any kind of letter. OMG!

Day Twenty Eight: Was just in the shower

2007-07-01T03:01:00.000+08:00

Then suddenly I hear a loud knocking on the door. Why don't they use the doorbell? So I rush out to see what it is.

Day Twenty Seven: The internet can spawn so much hate

2007-06-30T15:11:00.000+08:00

It may seem like a heavy subject but I jumped into a thread in PeX and it appears as if there is a culture of hate that permeates through the internet as well. It is democratic after all. I only wonder if it will be used as the breeding ground of the next fuehrer? Luckily we have more intelligent people out there. I am more afraid for those that are easily dragged into a culture of hate. All you need are a few fanatics to make trouble for the majority.

http://pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=305640&page=2

Day Twenty Seven: Stress

2007-06-30T14:22:00.000+08:00

Well I thought it would be easy sailing towards the end but I have been pacing back and forth. You get kindda antsy when you are about to finish something but as we all know..."can't count the chickens before they hatch." Patience is an overrated virtue.

Day Twenty Seven: The ritual

2007-06-30T10:09:00.000+08:00

No day would be complete with something as mundane as this. Yet it is a reality that I have to face. Hope the "friends" don't pull a fast one while I am engaged in this.

Day Twenty Seven: Will have to catch some ZZZZs

2007-06-30T00:56:00.000+08:00

Can't stay up much longer. Will take a short nap.

Day Twenty Six: BRB

2007-06-29T20:09:00.000+08:00

Need to prep for potential threats.

Day Twenty Six: Will there be a forced eviction night?

2007-06-29T18:28:00.000+08:00

Well they do have it in PBB. Hope not here. LOL. Should I hide in the closet the rest of the time and lock it?

Should I remain awake for the next four or so days. Or sleep in 5 minute intervals.

Should I tie myself to a pillar?

Should I...

Day Twenty Six: Paranoia?

2007-06-29T17:19:00.000+08:00

Sometimes shuffling outside and even a light flicker makes my mind race wondering whether or not the other party is up to some sort of trickery. In fact I lost my internet connection earlier and was thinking OMG. They didn't. Luckily it is back up so it was just a minor glitch. What is happening to me?

Day Twenty Six: Be prepared

2007-06-29T12:27:00.000+08:00

Yup. In preparation for any onslaught one must always be at one's best. Grooming nothwithstanding.

These are little things but remember details can spell a disaster or a victory.

Day Twenty Six: Ramblings

2007-06-29T10:34:00.001+08:00

A YM buddy asked if they could cut water. Power. Internet.

Well there is a prime motivator that may make them resort to things. That would be losing the bet.

Another YM bud suggested I booby trap the door. Maybe the windows as well. Wonder with what though.

Day Twenty Six: What is next up their sleeve?

2007-06-29T08:08:00.001+08:00

How will they attempt to flush me out?

Think seige of yore. They would cut supplies. catapult disease-ridden festering corpses over the ramparts. And a host of other disgusting things. Did someone say battering ram? Anyway, let us see. Sometimes as much as we advance we remain the same.

Day Twenty Five: Status report

2007-06-28T23:29:00.000+08:00

It appears to be quiet for now. Am alert as to what the other party will do. They must be relishing this or planning out something.

Trying to second guess is difficult. Am in a predicament where they can "see" me through this but I can't "see" what is in their minds.

So I cannot quite use this blog to express certain "opinions".

Yet I can note down what they do.

Day Twenty Five: Your opinion is needed here

2007-06-28T18:00:00.000+08:00

I have been chatting on YM with some. Mentioned that I would not put it beneath the other party involved in the bet to actually try to break-in and drag me out of my apartment.

Laundry girl says it is against the bet since it will be done under duress.

quote: "and remind your friends on your blog that any attempts at coercion or otherwise putting you under duress (grave threats etc) would forfeit the bet in your favor
because that would be in violation of your contract
signed, sealed and witnessed naman yung contract mo, di ba?

e di yun
any attempt to coerce you or threaten you or even bodily pull you out of the unit is going to invalidate the bet
you automatically win."

What do you think? If they drag me out and claim I did so on my own volition or threaten me out. What happens? Because they could get the security guard as a witness. And what if he says I walked out on my own accord.

Sadly, I have nothing to barricade the door with and can only rely on the locks.

Day Twenty Five: An evening with me

2007-06-28T12:02:00.000+08:00

Ever wonder how I spend my nights? Well wonder no more. Have captured a typical night on vid for your viewing pleasure.

Day Twenty Five: Oh oh

2007-06-28T10:47:00.000+08:00

When I woke up this morning I heard this strange rustling sound outside the door. I thought someone was trying to break-in. I thought that it wasn't going to happen since there was a lock at the door. Remember the padlock the friends put there at the beginning of the bet? Well it was my cordon sanitaire from the rest of the world.

Then I was suddenly caught by surprise. The door opened slightly.

"No way," I thought to myself. It must be cabin fever or something playing tricks on me. So I walk over to investigate. It was slightly open. Oh my god. They had taken the lock off. It was a signal from them I suppose. Or a trick to tempt me to walk out the door and check.

I knew that if I stepped out the door the bet would have been lost.

So I shut the door and locked it.

They have started.

Day Twenty Four: Will it be smooth sailing 'til the end?

2007-06-27T18:13:00.000+08:00

Not wanting to jinx anything but I am one of those peeps that believe in not counting your chickens until they are hatched. Now we are so close to the end what can go wrong. Should I be overconfident?

Why is it that when we get overconfident we tend to not see what sometimes is not the unforseen? Is it an issue of pride? Any idea?

Am I being paranoid? Will the "friends" who are betting against me resort to underhanded tactics? Or is that too much for me too assume? More than mere pride there is a lot riding on this for both parties. I have not disclosed much of the bet but let us say it will help the winner (which is hopefully me) not just settle so much but also launch a dream.

They have been unusually quiet of late. And over the course of this week I have already started to purchase "items" online that are more of luxuries that I wanted to have. Stuff that aren't merely for survival but to enjoy. Because as you know part my strategy is to max out my card before the end by buying stuff. Because should I win (notice I didn't say when) I would be able to have them pay for it.

Just so you know all the agreements are in writing and signed and witnessed as well. Can never be too sure this day and age. Gone is the era of the Gentleman's agreement.

Day Twenty Four: Doing time

2007-06-27T10:59:00.000+08:00

As a tribute to Paris Hilton who did her time, MOG submits to you his sexy time.

Remember the internet is all about this sort of thing.

Day Twenty Four: We'll always have Paris

2007-06-27T10:05:00.000+08:00

You think about it and it seems like the internet was created for a Paris. It is the medium where she was propelled to stardom and the very thing she thrives on. You could say she is the best endorser we have right now for the web's viral power.

Sometimes I think about how strange and pleasant it is that the internet is a community by itself. One that is filled with unique netizens. Peeps who are drawn together when they would never have been in the "real" world. Amazing.

Playing the game second life it makes me think. Is the internet a second world?

Day Twenty Three: What I did this morning

2007-06-26T12:48:00.000+08:00

A healthy body begins with a healthy mind. Make sure that even when you are online you get a blood flowing ritual. Not the kind where you sacrifice goats mind you. This is tai-chi online guy style.

No tai-chi masters were harmed in creating this film. Yet many will be offended. LOL

Cool to find free background music from the internet too!

Day Twenty Three: We are experiencing technical difficulties

2007-06-26T10:38:00.000+08:00

Apologies to all since it is due to technical difficulties I am unable to post much lately. I wonder if it also due to the fact that my mac is weighed down by the vids. Will dump some to create space. Hope it provides a fix. Am hoping it isn't actual hardware problems.

Day Twenty Three: So close yet...

2007-06-26T10:04:00.000+08:00

So far not so good. Aside from the server conking out on me every so often now even my mac is not holding up to the stress. I have had to take the batt out unplug it and basically re start over and over. It has been a bitch. (Wonder why female dogs are considered derogatory language. What did they do to deserve that?). Anyway I emailed the mac support team and they asked for the serial number of the computer. It appears that is actually a series that should have been recalled in the States due to logic board problems. Damn. Same issue as the other iBook I had. And why don't they make them easy to recall here in the bush?

I hope this mac won't let me down. If this mac dies during the remaining days of the bet I am royally screwed. Any band aid solutions will be most welcome.

Why is it that when you are so confident you are going to win...(won't complete that since I may jinx the outcome)

Day Twenty Two: Monday Blues

2007-06-25T10:22:00.000+08:00

Boy had to make sure I am capturing my day to day activities for you readers out there. This is a typical Monday morning. Hard start but we do need to get the week going.

Remember if it weren't for Mondays though we wouldn't have Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays. Btw, had to upload again. There was a glitch in the earlier upload and lost the title card.

Day Twenty One: Dancing MOG

2007-06-24T13:04:00.000+08:00

Hey all. Uploading a vid of how I spend my Saturday nights while everyone is out on the town. Can't miss on the action can I.

Day Twenty One: Good night

2007-06-24T02:41:00.001+08:00

Okay will go to sleep rather than err and eavesdrop on my neighbors.

Day Twenty One: Is it really eavesdropping?

2007-06-24T02:12:00.000+08:00

For example, if you had a neighbor that was just naturally loud and you had chanced upon hearing things while it was all silent in your apartment, does that constitute eavesdropping?

Now if I intentionally placed a glass against the wall and listened that would be blatant eavesdropping.

Yet somehow you get drawn to what you hear. Is it in our nature to be voyeurs? To look and listen and watch while others aren't aware we are?

Now if it were karaoke night and all of the singers were never going to be stars even if they belted like they thought they were divas I would just plug my ears.

This one seems interesting. Looks like a lovers spat. Mr. Man appears to have been caught with his hand in someone else's cookie jar. Okay maybe I should just plug my ears. Or

Day Twenty One: Really quiet

2007-06-24T01:45:00.000+08:00

It does appear quiet at weekends. Maybe everyone is out on a gimmick night. Miss that so much. Well just around nine more days anyway.

Have a good weekend everyone.

Day Twenty: Another quiet weekend

2007-06-23T10:00:00.000+08:00

The loneliest time in my online life are weekends. These are probably the days everyone is out with family, friends or just simply malling. The simple pleasures. Watching a good flick on the big screen. The sound of laughter. You get my drift.

Don't worry. Am not getting cabin fever. Merely ruminating. At least Paris has her cellmates. An we aren't taking telephone rights. Needless to say having YM and this helps a lot.

Oh and the fever has broken. Whoopee. Hope me and the old computer hold up.

Had vodka last night close to midnight to celebrate being two-thirds of the way. Wow how time doesn't fly. And this weekend it will creep slowly. Good thing is it allows me to contemplate a bit. Nah. Just more gametime.

Day Twenty: Longer lasting?

2007-06-23T09:58:00.000+08:00

Hope I last longer than these alkaline batteries. Digi cams really do consume so much power. Have ordered more batts so I can work on these vids. Got an idea I hope you like. Should be interetesting.

Day Twenty: Good night this morning

2007-06-23T00:58:00.001+08:00

I can't believe we are now here at day 20. Am a little tired so will retire. Good night and sweet dreams! Stay off the coffee now.

Day Nineteen: Online exercise

2007-06-22T16:38:00.000+08:00

Hi all. Here is a test vid. It's the first vid of the onlineguy about the onlineguy. Uploaded it on youtube as well. My name at youtube is pinoyonlineguy. Anyway it is a short subject film of what I call "Laptop Hurdles". Enjoy.

btw I wonder if Hitme64 will allow me to categorize it as running?

Day Nineteen: Making the cut

2007-06-22T11:57:00.000+08:00

So here I am taking some vids of myself. Am working at how to cut the vids on my mac as well. Funny how circumstances will actually thrust you into situations where you will have to go above and beyond.

Day Nineteen: Time marches on

2007-06-22T08:43:00.001+08:00

And quite slowly too. Yup. Many are saying "you are closer to your 30 days". Me I sit here and actually wait for it to be the 30th day. Notice how the closer you get to it the more you anticipate it and the further it appears. Oh well another excuse to play games. No (slaps self) finish your work requirements.

note: I have trashed some junk in the comp in the hopes that it would help with the issues the mac is fighting.

Day Nineteen: Something new

2007-06-22T08:39:00.000+08:00

Hey all. Got an idea from someone yesterday who was chatting on the YM line. Shout outs. Like they do "greetings" to friends out there on the radio.

Anyway, feel free to let me know who you want to greet out there.

First shout out:

Greetings to all of lunar_boy0021's colleagues in their undisclosed advertising agency on the paseo ayala side fo makati. To his teammates remind him that he owes me a drink.

Day Eighteen: On and off

2007-06-21T19:35:00.000+08:00

Can only get this dinosuar up every so often. Sometimes the light is on but no one is literally home. Yup the screen sometimes draws a blank. So I reboot. And reboot until I can get the screen up.

Could it be due to continuous use? As in the thing is having a fit because it is overworked?

Hope after I kick it a couple of times it gets back into shape.

Day Eighteen: CRASHED!

2007-06-21T11:51:00.000+08:00

@#&*^%$!!!!

The mutha f@%#in mac crashed several times. I hope it isnt the damn logic board conking out on me. It just hanged and froze firefox.

Why does Murphy's Law seem to be prevalent in endeavors like this?

Day Eighteen: Brave new world?

2007-06-21T10:02:00.001+08:00

Is it entertainment or prophecy. Could be a bit of both.

**thanks to my YM tech buddy for helping me figure out how to embed - obviously I am blogged challenged. You know what this means? Vid time. Will work on some to post of me here in captivity.

Day Eighteen: Another day in the day in the life of...

2007-06-21T09:43:00.000+08:00

Had a long sleep. 12 hours in fact. Having a fever kind of does that for me. Difficulty is trying to focus on work (deadlines don't move remember) that I have to email to my various offline "bosses".

So you still see me here. Yup, I spoke to the "friends" last night and they didn't appear to amused. Hey they gave me a choice right? It is somewhat a "free world" and we can make choices in it.

Well needless to say they said I wasn't going to make it. That I would get sicker and that I would give. Hearing that strengthened my resolve. Funny how people thing they can break your will. In actuality the one who can really break you will is yourself.

Hope I didnt set myself up for a fall here.

Day Seventeen: Funny how things can change just like that

2007-06-20T17:44:00.000+08:00

Imagine that. Earlier today I was at a crossroad. Now it seems that I can make a decision. I will have to explain why I have arrived at my decision at first.

Okay so many are asking what is at stake. Let me put it this way. I am not related to any of the tycoons. Just your ordinary everyday Juan Dela C. One with ordinary life debts to a credit card and an old family loan that hasn't been paid off yet. So the bet will actually help alleviate things for now. Maybe even help me start off a small venture. It isn't really huge but it is a substantial amount. I cannot say exactly how much since this is the internet and the Philippines so security is always an issue.

Now the first sign. You guys have been really supportive. Plus I was threatened with bodily harm by those betting on me if I made them lose (just kidding). Your support has helped me see this through.

And you wouldn't believe it - I got an email from one of the small companies I bought stuff from. No it isn't a huge corporation but an online community. It's called tradeport. They asked me to complete the 30 days. Upon completing the 30 days they would give me a brand new MacBook Pro.

So the decision is GO FOR 30!

Day Seventeen: Decisions to be made

2007-06-20T09:35:00.000+08:00

Okay. So here is the dilemma. After an evening of tossing and turning and sweating and turning and tossing and sweating. Well, you get the picture right. Am sure most can empathize with the sweating part. Except for those in Australia, NZ, Chile, South Africa, The Arctic, Antartica, and all those places not having to suffer the furnace like heat here. That compounded with a fever doesn't quite help the situation.

Anyway thanks to the advice of many out there I have been hydrating. I was able to order meds and loads of water. So the fever will hopefully go down.

The prob is today is the day to decide whether to take the offer or not. There are those who offered their support and advice. Thanks for that. Will keep you posted on the development of things. For now a bit of rest.

Day Sixteen: The Acid Test

2007-06-19T17:44:00.000+08:00

Dammit. I have no antacid and I am dying from a hyperacidity attack. Consequence of no appetite and not having anticipated.

Arrgh. Luckily one of the YM group is actually a medical practicioner and adviced on milk and crackers. It is slightly subsiding. Gotta ride this out.

Day Sixteen: A weird call

2007-06-19T13:49:00.000+08:00

Okay. You know that my friends have actually left a celfone for emergencies. Well just now one of them calls me up. Strange considering they have purposely remained inconspicuously absent through the endeavor. I reckon it was due to the fact that they wanted to keep me bored and longing for company. To make me crack of course.

Now this is why they called. They said they would agree to settle 1/4 of the agreed bet and allow me to just walk out now. They realized that I proved my point? Maybe. They however did say maybe it was too cruel and that I was entitled to a life. Trying to play like they are "good guys"? Concerned about my welfare? Really now.

I can see it a couple of ways. They are afraid I will win and will take a bit of a loss rather than a bigger loss? Or do I take the offer while it is on the table in case I potentially muff it up towards the end?

Could they be afraid since I mentioned I would rack up a huge credit card bill towards the end as I mentioned to you would be my strategy?

The offer stands for the next two days they said. I would need to reply before Day Seventeen midnight.

So should I stand my ground and shoot for more or cut my losses? What do you think?

Your advice would help.

Day Sixteen: A bug's life

2007-06-19T12:10:00.000+08:00

Funny how it takes a small microbe to take down the creature that is on top of the food chain. And am not sure where I heard it but its main objective is to kill or be killed. In this case I do feel like I am dying. Head aches as I stare into the screen. Joints are achy breaky. And devoid of appetite. I can tell you that bug is beating me hands down.

I am such a wuss.

Day Fifteen: After tonite...

2007-06-18T22:50:00.000+08:00

It will be Day Sixteen. Pilosopo ba? Anyway am still feverish with a slight chill. Had a cup soup kaya it was good. Chicken soup for the captive soul.

Day Fifteen: How to launder in a shower for dummies

2007-06-18T18:58:00.000+08:00

And I quote:

"okay, ganito
ihiwalay mo yung mga colored clothes from the whites
tapos babad mo sila in separate pails with a bit of the detergent dissolved in the water...

kahit mga 30 mins lang na babad, tutal di ka naman lumalabas so di masyadong madumi yung damit mo...

tingin ko nga
after 30 mins, pili ka ng isa dun sa mga timba tapos kutawin mo yung tubig para bumula ulit
then take an article of clothing and start handwashing it. siguraduhin mong makukusot mo lahat ng parte nung damit, lalo na yung kwelyo at kili-kili ng mga pang-itaas mo...

at siyempre yung pundilyo ng mga pang-ibaba mo, lalo na yung underwear
repeat the process until all the clothes are washed
tapos banlawan mo habang kinukumuyos mo yung mga damit hanggang mawala yung bula
tapos isampay mo na
may sampayan ka ba? do you have a balcony or something that you can use to dry your clothes?...

ngek di ka pwedeng magsampay sa balcony kung wala kang clothesline, magagalit management pati mga kapitbahay mo
ah, pwede na yun
make sure that you wipe the sampayan before you hang the clothes
otherwise madudumihan lang ulit
alternatively, after squeezing the excess water from the clothes, you can arrange them on hangers and hang them from the sampayan that way
para di ka na mag-plantsa
it works, especially for tshirts."

---from an apartment laundry expert (am too knackered to write now)

Day Fifteen: Anyone want to play doctor?

2007-06-18T10:09:00.000+08:00

One of the reasons I have been quiet is aside from chasing deadlines it seems that I have caught a nasty bug. Wonder if it is all this stale air around me? God forbid if it is due to showering with my laundry.

Problem is it makes me feel exhausted. Really drained. And last night I had chills. Funny how my body was shivering given the fact that we are right in the height of global warming. Well it has me pretty sluggish and given the fact that I have no thermometer I have no idea what I am running.

Elvis is that you?

Day Fifteen: Halfway point

2007-06-18T09:45:00.000+08:00

And in tune with the mundane nature of this endeavor I will post pics of doing the laundry. This is a technique that has been taught to me by a YM buddy. She said toss all dirty items into my shower and bathe with them. Now I take it that she meant not too actually bathe with them but to have them on the floor as I shower. Talk about hitting two "birds" with one stone. This works when you don't have the benefit of a laundry service or a washing machine or a parent's house to take your laundry to.

to quote a poet of our times "Whooah, we're halfway there, Ohhhh livin' on a prayer. Take my hand and we'll make it I swear."

Day Fourteen: Life's a chore

2007-06-17T19:14:00.000+08:00

Well now I am seeing 14 days of procrastination build up. So am engages in a massive clean-up of my "living" area. Now you may call it the "sty". Later it will be THE model apartment. I wish.

Day Fourteen: A bit of my night attire

2007-06-17T00:38:00.000+08:00

Wonder what insomniacs "who don't have anything better to do than lock themselves in a room" wear in the middle of the night?

Their fave boxer shorts of course.

Day Fourteen: Finally back on

2007-06-17T00:32:00.000+08:00

Must have had a glitch with the server. Was afraid my connection was cut off. Yet after much perseverance luckily I was back online. Good thing it wasn't an unpaid bill issue.

My iBook. This is my window to the world. Also check out my hand shot. Hey my hands are what enable me to communicate with you. They are my voice in cyberworld. They utter my words.

Day Thirteen: Can never be too sure

2007-06-16T14:03:00.000+08:00

As many are familiar this is the Pinoy way of saving for a "rainy day". Well after the drought at the apartment I can never be too sure. So I scrounged for whatever water containing device I could get my hands on to make sure I would be prepped.

These also have a dual function. They act as weights for my exercise in captivity program. That is Pinoy ingenuity at work.

Another pic in another post will help show some of my exercise routines.

Day Thirteen: Luck is on my side?

2007-06-16T01:28:00.000+08:00

Was fun working out this cam. Am taking pics so we have a visual log of this enterprise. Hopefully 13 shall prove to be the lucky number for this endeavor. Fingers crossed.

Day Twelve: We cam do it!

2007-06-15T16:56:00.000+08:00

Hurrah! The digi cam has arrived. Cool. Will spend the greater part of the evening figuring out how this works. Like they aren't idiot friendly. Cooler. It comes with batteries. Whew. Was afraid it wouldn't have any. But i must stock up. These digi cams consume batteries faster than a middle class american sucks in fast food.

Will check if the old philgrocer has the goods. Or maybe the gadget site. Damn. Again lack of foresight. Anyway, will have to check. For now I will play with my toy. (And it isn't what the dirty minds out there think it is.)

Day Twelve: What is the worst site in cyberspace?

2007-06-15T13:09:00.000+08:00

I am sure many of you have "stumbled" across a site that doesn't deserve to be online.

Thus I am officially opening The "Sites that should be taken down" Awards.

Only rule is you cannot nominate my site. Hey, if you want to then create your own award.

Fairly simple. Place the URL address along with your comment. Then the public shall decide which of the nominees deserves the uncoveted award.** Fair enough?

**voting mechanics to be disclosed later.

Day Twelve: "I will promote world peace"

2007-06-15T12:59:00.000+08:00

Remember that ubiquitous beauty pageant response? I always wondered how they would promote world peace. Any ideas? Then it dawned on me. Like, duh. It's right in front of me. The internet. It could be a powerful tool in actually promoting world peace. Through better communications. Through understanding. Through reaching out to another across the miles.

Hmmmm.

Nah.

It's still all about porn.

So much for that idea.

(waves and smiles to the cameras)

Day Twelve: Good Morning...ZZZZZZZZ

2007-06-15T12:25:00.000+08:00

Could never quite understand the human body. Some things about it don't make sense. (Oh and am not talking bout male nipples here). The more you sleep. The sleepier you get. Strange. The premise was that you would get more rest if you sleep more yet the more you sleep the more tired you feel. Where is the logic in that?

Am also noticing that I am now tending to be somnambulistic. Yet I have nowhere to go obviously. But in circles. I also notice that I would (in my half asleep state) raid my near empty cupboards and fridge. Some attribute that to not getting sufficient nutrition in the day. Or could it be stress?

Well at least I don't have the same problems as these peeps:

http://www.newscientist.com/article.ns?id=dn6540

Day Eleven: KABOOM!

2007-06-14T17:53:00.000+08:00

A loud explosion just rocked my world here. It was a deafening "KABOOM"! Literally. I couldn't tell what it was but judging from the Meralco truck parked out back (yes I have an elegant view of the back of other buildings) on the street must mean a transformer or something near the powerlines blew up. Whew! Was afraid it was a terrorist attack. And here I am too. So had to make sure I had clean underwear on since you never know, right? Now that is so weird the idea of being told to wear clean underwear 'coz you may just get killed and they will see at least you had clean underwear. Does that really matter? First of all you are dead. Am fairly certain that you will not really hear a eulogy where they comment on the deceased's undergarments. That would be some bizzare fetish. Also doesn't it happen sometimes that someone who is suddenly struck down loses control of bodily functions? So of what use would the clean underwear have been in the first place?

Anyway I can hear the generators going. So it must mean power is cut off. Hope we dont lose power later tonight. It isn't as if I can go to the movies (with clean underwear) to stave of the heat.

Day Eleven: A bet is a bet

2007-06-14T12:01:00.000+08:00

Many have been asking what exactly is at stake. I had to ask the other party placing the bet if I could disclose the details of this. It was initially agreed that I should not reveal what was at stake . And they maintained their position on this.

Now, I mentioned to the other party that maybe I could tell you all how we were going to settle the expenses related to this enterprise. It is something covered by the bet yet they said I could disclose this tidbit of information.

First of all, this is something that is not quite my normal monthly regimen and as such will need for me to make purchases online that would go beyond my allocated budget for the time period. A new digi cam to replace the lost one is an example. It isn't something I factored in at this time so had to make do with my old instamatic had the need for photos presented itself. That being said, the agreement we had (as a peripheral stipulation of the bet) is that whoever loses would pay for all expenses incurred during this endeavor. That is why I have been frugal in the beginning. Some of you though are privy to my strategy regarding this matter.

Day Eleven: I got mail

2007-06-14T11:11:00.000+08:00

Cool. I got a message that my digi cam should be arriving tomorrow. The better part of the day tomorrow will be figuring it out. As you gathered I am not much of a techie. And as is usually the case with me (not sure about you all though) I will totally disregard the manual as discovery is always part of the fun. Or is that an excuse for laziness?

I will also check how to upload pics and possibly vids as well. So you get to see how exciting it is to be living in a box with a dilapidated computer for a "best friend".

Day Ten: And the winner is...

2007-06-13T17:45:00.000+08:00

(drumroll)

MALING!

It was a tough battle but Maling prevailed. Sure the referee was obviously biased but pound for pound Maling was the hands down champ.

"It isnt as imposing as Spam nor as stealthily deadly as Daks but it snuck past the competition and knocked them out," Onlineguy was quoted.

In addition to that Onlineguy stated, "Maling had that film of 'evil' that coated its entire self. Somehow you felt like it wouldnt be surprising if you bite into it and found a fingernail or a vein. Luckily I didn't."

Spam and Daks were not available for comment.

Maling is a proud product of China. Remember there was a time Made in Japan was seen as bad.

Day Ten: The Ten Movies I Like Game

2007-06-13T16:28:00.000+08:00

Since it is Day 10, wouldn't it be good if we play the 10 Movies game? Rules are simple, think of 10 words you like in less than 10 minutes. You needn't have to explain why. Just list 'em and no need to rank in order of what you like.

Let me start:

1. The Mission
2. The Godfather
3. The Life of Brian
4. And now for something completely different
5. Breakfast at Tiffany's
6. The Holy Grail
7. M*A*S*H
8.As good as it gets
9.The Flight of the Phoenix - original one
10. Le Grand Bleu

btw, am willing to bet that hitme64 will say: Chariots of Fire

Day Ten: Do you prefer online or offline mags?

2007-06-13T16:05:00.000+08:00

I was perusing through my new blog buddy hitme64's site and his latest entry talks about Runner's World magazines. Before my life in captivity I was basically a Booksale rat. I would scour through bin after bin of the cheap magazines and buy what I could when my budget would allow. Of course these magazines would have their URL plastered on the cover. A signal of the move to towards the online world. I was told that FHM US had ceased its magazine publication. A sign of the times?

Yet, as I commented of hitme64's post, I tend to read and re-read and re-re-read old magazines until the covers come off. Sometimes I would even cut up articles and paste them on the wall if I liked 'em. And some pics as well. While some are the gratuitous female pin-up pose you would see there are other pics ranging from absolut vodka ads (and other ads I liked) to old motorcycles and more mag fodder.

That being said, is that something you can really do with the internet? Kindda strange thing to say considering I am here doing what I am to prove the internet is the new way.

Maybe I am a hold-out? A romantic from an era soon to be eclipsed. Until they can come up with a wall "album" to store desired electronic image data I will have my mag collage right there.

With that in mind, check this out -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-9j_tYP-kzc

Day Ten: Trash Talk

2007-06-13T14:03:00.000+08:00

If any out there are wondering what happened to my in-home "landfill" it had been disposed off conveniently when the processed meats were delivered. Now it was quite a sight seeing that delivery dude's face when he saw me lugging the old trashbags out of the apartment. As i tried to cram it out the door in futility.

It seemed like he had never seen so much rubbish in his life. But then again all he needs to do is to go to some side streets around the metro and he is bound to see heaps more than what I had. In fact at least mine were in bags. Not like that "crap" that seems to find itself in abundance on our fair streets (and strewn all over too). I suggest you go down the coastal road to Cavite and you will see just what I mean. For me it is really perplexing. Why would anyone want to be surrounded by so much trash? It is like your neighborhood so why throw "crap" indiscriminately.

Oh and imagine what it will be like when the rains hit. Who enjoys walking through garbage? Raise your hands.

As the guard and delivery dude headed into the elevator with all the "crapola" I thought - C'mon you wusses, I had to live with that for a long time. Okay just around 7-8 days. Funny how we tend to be okay with our "shit". But when we see others it is "so kadiri".

After I looked at the bag of processed meat that had been brough to me I wondered was I taking more in than I was throwing out? But that is a different story.

Day Ten: Are we a third empty or two-thirds full?

2007-06-13T09:16:00.000+08:00

In challenges like this it pays to be a "half-full" person.

Earlier today I explained to a person I was chatting with on YM that I have started to give the items here in my apartment nicknames. Don't worry I am not going "Castaway" on you guys.

I joked with the person on YM that he would have to excuse me as I was going to the "bank". He freaked since he said he had several "ninoys" riding on me. I quipped that the "bank" was my nickname for the toilet. I make my deposits there. Though it is not quite pleasant to make a withdrawal there.

Do you have nicknames for inanimate objects around you? One of the things most peeps give nicknames to are cars. What about other things? Computers? Beds? etc. Why should cars have all the fun.

Maybe we should start a trend and start naming items that are a part of our lives? What do you think "Wilson"?

Day Nine: Dak's Secret Identity

2007-06-12T18:53:00.000+08:00

OMG. Dak's may be the devil in disguise!

http://www.forums.imperian.com/index.php?showtopic=5315

Will this tilt the odds?

Day Nine: R u ready for the "Processed Meat Challenge"?

2007-06-12T18:26:00.000+08:00

Good evening ladies and gentlemen. Tonight's contenders are:

from Northern America - Spam!
from Europe - Dak's ham!
and from Asia's new powerhouse - The People's Republic of China - Maling!

Who will reign as champion of the onlineguy processed meat challenge.

Criteria will be based on:

1. Taste (lol so subjective)
2. Amount of bodily harm inflicted
3. Overall public appeal

A poll will be conducted on YM as well as a personal taste test to see who will emerge the victor. Place your bets folks!

Results tomorrow!

Day Nine: Close to a third of the way!

2007-06-12T17:47:00.000+08:00

Cool. It seems like things are moving on. While not as smoothly my comp and I are trodding along quite well. I told someone on YM that I am kindda like rapunzel trapped in a tower with the exception of not being a girl and being follicaly (is that how you spell it? Whatever) challenged.

I have placed the order for the digicam. Interesting since it took an online bank transfer. So I didn't have to strap the old plastic. Still am worried it may max as I try to make my grocery purchases.

Hmmm that pay 4 porn site looks interesting. NO! Focus man! (slaps self- not monkey)

Day Nine: Independence Day

2007-06-12T12:14:00.000+08:00

Well I found out the holiday was moved to yesterday to create a three day weekend. Yet of course today is still the actual holiday. While I am not with the normal nine-to-five workforce my holidays are now, more often than not, my call. Yet when work piles up it really does pile up. That is more due to the fact that I make a lousy organizer. Can always place the blame on the creative thinking process being chaotic. Today is one such occasion. A day when everything needed to be done by yesterday. Well it is hard to juggle it all now and still maintain this online life. Too many pleasant distractions. And unpleasant ones too. Well can't have everything.

Now on the topic of independence. Will the internet provide more of it? Or less?

Day Eight: Prepping for the internet stage

2007-06-11T23:14:00.000+08:00

Found a site recommended - tradeport.com.ph. Will obtain the digital camera from them and have it sent over so I can work on uploads. Lost my previous one. It was lifted from me at some place I had a meeting in Makati. Of all places an office. Well sticky fingers know no bounds. Or maybe I was just careless. That being the case I haven't gotten around to getting a replacement. I guess this presents itself as a good opportunity to then.

Day Eight: A quandry

2007-06-11T22:56:00.001+08:00

Decisions. Decisions. Someone asked if I wanted to be featured by the media. Somehow it feels weird. It isn't exactly what I wanted. Am not your "media" savvy person. In fact, I don't even know the person that was referred to.

However do you think I should open up to them? I would need to know from you what the pros and cons would be.

One thing I see that we know how media tends to turn things into a circus. And how at times seems to be self-serving (that is putting it kindly I suppose). Is there a way to turn the tables?

Help.

Day Eight: Got the goods

2007-06-11T17:19:00.000+08:00

Cool. Philgrocer came through. Now the test of the luncheon meats will come to play. Who will prevail. Many are backing Maling. Now is there any truth to the urban legend as to what they are actually made off? That unfortunately would be another test.

Day Eight: Quite quiet

2007-06-11T11:17:00.000+08:00

I just found out that today is a holiday. Maybe that is why activity is low on the 'net. Does it mean most people actually surf more during weekdays? During worktime? Less on weekends? Could be. Or it could be just a slow three day weekend with more peeps out.

My water problem miraculously has been remedied. Yippee. Sometimes you don't know what you miss until you get it back. Could that be our capability to adapt at work?

Another thing about adaptation. In the begining it was difficult. It isn't that it isn't now but you kindda get used to it. Now the other virtue I need to work on is patience. My groceries have yet to arrive.

Day Eight: Tell my why I don't like mondays

2007-06-11T00:19:00.000+08:00

But then again the days are starting to feel the same. Honestly I have to check from previous posts to see what day it is. That's why I tend to post a lot. Helps me track time aside from the sun rise moon rise cycle.

Monotony starting to take its toll? This could be what it is like when you start running the ratrace. The sheer drudgery. Or worse like being a zoo animal. Now I feel the pain of that lion I used to see at the Manila Zoo as a kid. Being caged up and made to prance back and forth on that concrete surface. Day in day out. With no hope in sight. When it was created to be a majestic creature to run wild. And now it too became part of the stifling urban jungle. Much like the many majestic creatures that harsh urban jungle now has in its confines.

Day Seven: My online grocery list

2007-06-10T22:34:00.000+08:00

So far no need for toiletries. More like food for the moment.

Have placed an order for:

Dak luncheon meat
Spam
Maling
Doritos
Cheetos
and Vienna sausage

Notice the similarities in some? That is another thing I will do to while away my time. Make comparison reports on each type of processed meat. Must really appear to be bored? Think of it as a gourmet report on canned products. From a claimed expert.

Day Seven: The cult of Paris Hilton

2007-06-10T15:14:00.000+08:00

The goddess of the internet. Paris Hilton. Wonder how may hits I will get by just placing her name here now. Who else but Parid Hilton. LOL

Day Seven: Say Cheez

2007-06-10T14:59:00.000+08:00

Did not quite realize it but it seems I have been misspelling Cheez Whiz. Was going through my near empty bottle. Ever do that where you totally go through it with a knife or spoon. Sometimes I would even get a spoonful and yum.

Supplies are dwindling so will need to make that grocery run online. Am going to give philgrocer a go. Interesting as they also have a helpline on YM. No response yet there. Yet from what I gather delivery will take a day.

Need to work on that grocery list.

Day Seven: Sunday quiet sunday

2007-06-10T14:14:00.000+08:00

Seems like sunday is slow on the Pinoy 'net scene. Should be good for me to work on some technicals and get more game time. There is literally no one on my YM list. Must be the day for the fave Pinoy past times - Churching, malling and eating out. Oh and let us not forget cinema time. Clickthecity shows that there are a bunch of new films out. Have you seen the "pinoy" made film that won the shortfilm award at Cannes? Take the time to check it out at allOrangefilms.com. Its called the "Haircut". Something still made from film in the fast growing digital world.

Day Seven: It's raining, it's pouring...

2007-06-10T11:21:00.000+08:00

Yes it is here in Makati at least. Wonder how much of the city is actually getting a much needed shower. It has after all been a very hot summer. And the rain is so welcome. Specially when you are confined in a room as muggy as mine has been the past days. So I opened the window to let some of the cleansing breeze through. How nice it would have been to step out and stand in the middle of the road and feel the rain pour all over my body. Ah relief.

Water the essence of life. How much its importance is taken forgranted I realized with the "slight" water problem I am experiencing here in the apartment. Something that should be rectified soon. I can feel it with the pouring rain.

Day Seven: Hello lucky 7

2007-06-10T00:33:00.000+08:00

Well it is just the beginning of the 7th day. Let us see what the day has in store. Good morning to all.