When I reached HS, it was different story. Basketball during breaks were no longer allowed. Instead I now opted for the more stylish footwear. But leather shoes were not included on the list. The latest rubber shoes or sneakers would go well with our khakis and blue polos as uniforms. Since wearing black socks were now allowed, I was definitely wearing them. This eventually evolved into wearing slippers during breaks. Leather shoes were now kept in lockers just in case a surprise inspection came about. I think I went through 1-2 pairs of leather shoes during my entire HS stay. (To think I started commuting during HS!)

College was again a different phase in my life as well as footwear apparel. During 1st year, I would wear nothing but sneakers. Forget the leather shoes, I think I didn’t even bother getting a pair during this year. When I reached 2nd year slippers were a must. I would wear shoes occasionally if I had to give a report or if I had class at the School of Management (i.e. Accounting!) but aside from those days, I would be wearing slippers or sandals. When 3rd year came a new dress code was implemented and we had to wear closed shoes at certain areas. I reverted back to wearing sneakers.

You see, I think wearing leather shoes are reserved for those special occasions. Dining at hotels, graduations, weddings, debuts and the like. I associate leather shoes with being grown up or too formal. I would never even dare think about wearing them daily. Not that I had to. But right now, at this point my life, I was actually craving for a GOOD pair of leather shoes. Not only comfortable but stylish as well.  Gone are the days where I think they are too formal or for grown ups. Maybe this is what growing up means. Wearing leather shoes. I have yet to find out. Everything is new to me. I will tell you when I find out ok?

First Pair of Shoes I bought as an adult!

Today I went shopping for my first pair of leather shoes after my old ones got ruined at the last bonfire. They were swallowed up whole by the living creature known as Bellarmine Field. I had a hard time picking since I am not really used to buying clothes much less shoes. I didn’t know which were stylish. I didn’t know which would go well with my pants or clothes. I finally settled on a very contemporary pair. I think them to be both stylish and conservative as well. I tried to shy away from the more classic looks as I saw grandfathers trying on the styles my parents were recommending. I knew they were classics, but I wanted something a little bit more hip. I hope I did ok. Let me know what you think. I hope dazzle and amaze with my choice!

I’ve always thought that drinking coffee was for grown ups and Milo, Juice or Milk were for kids. That was how my world worked. I started drinking coffee only in college. Even during my HS days I never did acquire the taste for coffee. But in college, due to the sleepy time (Between 1pm and 4pm) I had to. I at least had 2-3 cappucinos from Figaro a day. (the large one) But I’ve never gotten use to the taste of just coffee alone. I can get through 2-3 mugs a day, but never really get into the habit of daily drinking coffee.

With the ensuing entrance of the BER months (and the coldness it brings), I’ve gotten to reflecting about my days even more and drinking coffee as well. (I’ve realized that the past 8 months whizzed by and so much stuff happened!) Ending the last week on a high note really put things in perspective. I am enjoying my new job and well the extra day off (Monday due to National Heroes Day) gave me a bit of time to really reflect on the future. Gone are the childish aspirations of owning an awesome car and the most expensive cellphone as well as expensive pc or laptop. No more branded shoes nor latest gear. (I still do need some expensive gear for photography but the need for it isn’t as pressing as it was before)

Today I just had “business lunch” with a future investor and partner and I must say all this talk about business and investing is very appealing. Right now, instead of saving up for expensive toys, I am saving up for a future venture. (Those who read my blog/blogs would know what that venture is!) I am very thankful to have a GF like Pat who is very supportive. I am happy to take opportunities that are thrown at me, not because I enjoy going to them (although I really do!) but rather because I understand the importance of the network I am currently building. I know right now that it is very much oriented towards the business I want to go into. All this over a cup of coffee I might add!

Thanks to Alvin, who provides the know-how and crap I never took the time to learn nor understand back in school and yet somehow makes me understand the concepts as well as possibilities and risks.

Today is the first time I can say that indeed I have grown up. No more expensive toys. No more reservations on things I know nothing of, because there will always be people there who can help you. Show them your passion and they’ll be glad to help. I may not be able to invest financially, but I more than make up for it through investments in people.

Now I drink coffee. I think I’ve grown up. And yet, I don’t drink my coffee black, I still have that kid in me ordering either the Cappucino or the Caramel Machiatto.

Oh and now I get a haircut every month to maintain the neat look.