Google Earth

Last week, two of my colleague were discussing about some 'bakasyon' spots here in NZ, specifically natural springs. Went over and I saw them using google earth (11mb). It was almost 5 pm and I wasn't busy.

As soon as I got back to my workstation I downloaded me a copy. Initially had trouble with some network settings but I got it to work after some minor fiddling.

Now that it's up and running... where to go ?? As I entered 'Manila' in its search box the earth's image so elegantly turned to the Philippines, drilled down to Luzon. I could see Laguna bay and finally Manila. Google presented me with a 900 ft above the ground (ofcourse) view of Manila. After a couple of minutes of staring at the view I could already identify the streets and some familiar edifices.

What I didn't expect was the sudden rush of homesickness. Goddamnit... I missed Manila, I missed Quiapo. I had to fight the tears off of my eyes (talaga). And after I regained some level of composure I began to search for my 'hood'. I could've sworn that I saw 'budoy' and 'bruce lee' peddling stolen fire extinguishers pa rin.. mga tol tigilan nyo na yan !! Mas malaki ang kita ng nakaw na cellphones tol. :^P

I distinctly remember 1 year ago that I was cursing Manila. I was sick and tired of the hot and humid weather, the painful commutes and the 'get comfy with fellow passengers' MRT blues. I'd usually tell myself that If I was to get out of this 'dump', I won't be looking back.. NEVAAAH (never), and a big Adios to Quiapo/Divisoria as well.

Barely a year away and my tune have changed. I eagerly marked the ayala bridge, Legarda (Nepumoceno na ngayon), some universities in recto and the historically significant plaza Miranda.

Some recollection of my usual weekend activities... Me and my siblings mall-scapades and trips to cartimar (pasay) fish shops. Ongpin food tripping with my wife and grocery shopping with me Mum (Happy 60th bday!). I still know Manila's ins and outs.

Logic, reason and a leaking washing machine got a hold of me before I booked a flight back to my Manila.

Sabi ni konsensya: "Umuwi ka na at maglaba !"

I just got here, madaming gastusin pa at marami pang dapat na iintindihin at asikasuhin. Saka na siguro.... best not to download and install google earth at home muna.

Mahal din ang fares 1.2-1.8k NZD, Ibenta ko kaya yung isang gitara ko ? :)
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