Blogebrity? What the heck is that?
Well, Blogebrity is becoming a more used word these days. It’s actually a combination of two words: Blog and Celebrity. So, a Blogebrity is a Blogger who has gained some Celebrity (i.e. has become well known). Through my network of blogs, I have started to become somewhat of a Blogebrity, especially in Mindanao. I’m not trying to brag or make a claim that is beyond reality. As a matter of fact, I would prefer if I wasn’t as well known as I’ve become.
The truth is that being seen by people who know who I am is becoming a regular event in my life. It doesn’t happen every single day, but when I go out, it happens on a regular basis. I have people stop me at the malls, people come up to me in restaurants and coffee shops, even at Churches I’ve been approached by people asking me if I am “Bob Martin,” or “Mindanao Bob.” I have been asked to pose for photos with people, talk to their friends on the phone, so that they can really prove that they met me, etc. Sometimes it is embarrassing. But, it happens.
Remember yesterday when I said that I was kind of changing my clothing style? This is the reason. I have gotten into situations where I was wearing shorts, and I wish that I had been wearing something a little more formal – or should I say “less ratty?” One time a while back, I was invited into a place where the tables and chairs were gold plated. It was literally a place of Muslim Royalty. I didn’t expect to be going there, but I didn’t have much choice. And – I was wearing a pair of jeans shorts that were all faded! I decided that unless I am just going to pick up some drinks at the convenience store, from now on I will at least be wearing long pants when I go out!
Becoming well known has other drawbacks. You know how we have been talking in recent weeks about losing your patience or getting angry at the store when things don’t go the way that you want. I used to be like that, and it was something that always embarrassed me when I let it happen. Now, however, I have to be double careful, because there is a chance that if I act like that, people may recognize me! Now, that would be very embarrassing. So, being well known has meant that I need to watch my behavior, watch my dress, watch where I go and what I do, because you never know who is watching!
I will admit that in many ways, I have enjoyed my “Blogebrity,” as small as it may be. There is indeed something about having people recognize you when you go somewhere that makes you feel special in a way. This just started happening a little less than a year ago. Before that, nobody knew me. Now, a lot of people do.
If you see me in the mall or in the coffee shop, be sure to say “hi.”
Ha-ha-ha! Soon you'll be running from the paparazzi, Bob! 😉
Hi Tina – I sure hope it doesn't get that serious! 🙂
Hi Bob!
You're getting a celeb, eh, blogebrity status, indeed. If you could only run for public office in Davao or anywhere in Mindanao, I am 100% you will win.
Hi Jul – A number of years ago, somebody actually asked me to run for Mayor of General Santos. I told him that I am not a Philippine Citizen, so I am not qualified. He said that anything can be worked around! Ha ha…
Hi bob I thinking after you have your show in TV about foreigners live philippines
regards
Hi zois – I've actually guested on a number of different TV shows here. So far, though, I don't have my own show yet! Ha ha…
Good thoughts, Bob. made me think alittle bit about how I look when I go out. We have to accept the fact that we are literally ambassadors of our country. I know, I know that sounds corny and a bit "stuffed shirt" but it's true. When Filipinos see a kano (small 'k'), literally any "westerner" they judge others by the way we look and act. Dress like a slob … all kanos are slobs. Lose your temper, all kano are angry, loud and overbearing. Some don't like it, but it's a fact of life that won't go away.
Also in the Philippines you never know where you might be or whom you might meet. One day I went went with my wife to one of her old offices to eat merienda and chit chat with he rold office mates. When we got there they turned us around, rushed us out the door and said, "get in the van, hurry, we're all going to the Palace"
Yep, that palace .. Malacañang, the "Philippine White House." And not a palace tour, but an awards ceremony with the president. No _way_ was I dressed for that. Luckily for us the trip was postponed an hour or so, Thank goodness we were in Makati and I was able to buy a pair of shoes, a baraong Tagalog and a pair of dress slacks (with one hour alterations). At 5 pm I was eating President Aroyyo's fried chicken and spaghetti "heavy ordurves" and meeting and chitchatting with not only the President herself … very impressive lady by the way but even shorter ta she looks on TV … but a whole gaggle of highly paid television and radio station owners and high rnaking government broadcast execs, all dressed to the 'nines' and all wanting to meet the "lost looking kano" and wondering why he was there at the official function.
You may not get an invite to Malacañang very often, but it certainly can happen that you'll be the only American in a real ambassadorial situation.
Hi Dave – I have never been to Malacañang, but I have met GMA once. I saw her at the Marco Polo Hotel here in Davao and took a few minutes to talk with her. She asked me – "Sir, how is your vacation?" I figured it was easier to just go along rather than trying to explain that I wasn't on vacation! I said – "I'm really enjoying my stay here, Madame President." Ha ha.. what else could I say?
Hi Dave:
Excellent story and point well taken.
Hi Bob:
When I get there remind me that I never want to be famous, go out in pubic in a city ( I hate cities} and that I am going to be living on a remote beach, & fish a lot for big things. 😎
Bob, I heard a report that they want you to guest host Wowwee once a week. Ron
Hi Wayne – Can I come along on the fishing trip? 🙂
Hi Ron – They'll have to wait for a while on that one… I find that show annoying!!
Hi Bob I like to ask you in davao you know if live greek people no this good place for this question i know sorry.
Hi Bob:
Absolutely, but you have to wear to shorts on my boat though.:wink: When we are there if Feb. I and the kids are going on a charter. I know you are busy, but if you are not to busy would you like to come along? I know the answer, we'll see….:smile:
Hi zois – I don't know any Greeks in Davao, but I am sure there are many living here.
Hi Wayne – count me in! I'll be there with shorts on!!