14th Street

MOA Eye

2012-02-07T05:27:00.000+08:00

Sunday was a date to remember. On that said date, I set foot on the tallest Ferris wheel in the Philippines knows as MOA (Mall of Asia) Eye. Others says it's 160 ft. tall but according to Wikipedia it's 180 ft. tall. I didn't have the time to verify which one is correct because there was no manager on sight and I was all set to be up high so I took my line on the long queue of people.

Riding the MOA Eye is not in my plan as I was in the Mall of Asia for another reason which I will clarify on another post. Right now, I am all ecstatic to share this momentous event. When I say momentous it means rare and extraordinary for me as I have a love and hate relationship with towering heights. Didn't I mention you that? Well, now that you know, be kind to me - okay.

At first, I was torn between riding or not. But my urge to overcome my fear and to experience the ride won. I thought it would be kind of a roller coaster ride but it wasn't. I was disappointed at first because I thought I would scream to death but I didn't. It's moving slowly and would take about 10 to 15 minutes in full turn. You will go up and down the gondolas while they're moving. It's so wrong of me to anticipate for a roller coaster ride for what did it offered was a nice view while on top. The famous Manila Bay sunset and the whole Mall of Asia.

There was an awkward story which made this experience unforgettable. If you want to know, scroll down on the last part. But without further ado, ladies and gentlemen the MOA Eye:

KIDDING! hahaha. this is a kiddie Ferris wheel inside the mall

Below are the pictures of the MOA Eye

If I counted it right, there are 36 air conditioned gondola
(I based my count on the picture)

San Miguel By the Bay

Up close. this is the point where I was torn between risking my life or not

under the MOA Eye

while on the queue

you spot the difference? yes there are tinted gondolas

especially made for those who want to have a date overlooking Manila Bay

romantic or torture?

up and up and up

one last look

Awkward Moment:

Each ticket for the MOA eye costs 150 Php minimum of 4 person. If you'll ride in tandem you have to purchase 4 tickets which in turn cost 2 person 300 Php each. And no matter which you avail, you will be paired to another tandem when it's your turn (that's what we witnessed).

We're only two (me and my niece) so we waited for another pair to make the team four. Unfortunately we've paired to a couple who were so shy and with the duration of the ride, it's only I and my niece who did the talking admiring the view while the two of them stayed quiet and murmuring with each other.

IT FEELS LIKE WE RUINED THEIR DATE folks! THEY WANNA BE LEFT ALONE.

PRIVACY hello. But it's not our fault! Blame it to the crew.

President for Happiness

2012-02-02T01:58:00.001+08:00

Over the years, Coca-Cola never fail to amaze me with their commercials especially during Christmas season. They're my all time favorite advertisements together with Mc Donalds not only because I love the product but in all fairness they're full of substance.

So imagine my delight when I heard the news that Coca-Cola will create a new position called "President for Happiness" in line with the celebration of it's 100 years in the Philippines. The purpose of the said position is to spread happiness around the country.

There were speculations as to who would be chosen as the President for Happiness. I myself guessed he/she will be pulled out from the line of the veteran actors/actresses (he's a model though). But I was freakin' wrong!

Yesterday, when I watched the television the most awaited face of the president for happiness was revealed. Meet Caloy but his real name is Arran Phil Sese. Hmmm, "Sese"?, I was wondering how are we related hahaha.

source
Coca-Cola's President for Happiness

He was presented on a commercial inside his office filled with Coca-Cola soft-drinks explaining that his task is to make everyone happy while ideas were popping on his head. The latest commercial showed Caloy doing surveys from the busy streets of Manila asking people about things that would make them happy.

Coca-cola did a great job in bringing to life the creative idea of having the so called president for happiness. Not only will they capture the hearts of the Filipinos but will further create news and impact on their product the whole year round as I think this project was intended to run that long.

I was wondering what kind of activities will Caloy and Coca-Cola would come up with to make everyone happy. Well, that's for us to find out in the next few days/weeks/months or so.

I'm pretty darn excited Caloy, don't fail me.

Facebook

2012-01-23T12:57:00.000+08:00

Who's using the new timeline?

It's been like ages and I couldn't remember the last time I opened my Facebook account except for this month. While people were so fond updating statuses and uploading pictures, I just lost my appetite for the said social networking site. Maybe because I became anti-social and blogging became my online world. I forgot that beyond the walls of my online journal is another place where my long lost friends were. We can update each other through text messages but seeing what I saw today on Facebook just gave me a hint of what I am missing. Oh well, I blame it all to the BUSY life.

I was never outdated with the new features but I never updated mine, after all I wasn't well fond of it like I was before. Again, blame on the BUSY life.

I must admit, I love how the new timeline looks

more photos here

And now I am torn between the decision of updating or not. I am concerned with the security settings. If you're one of my Facebook friends, you know how much I protect the privacy not only of my own account but that of my friends as well, that's why you won't see who are they. Not to mention:

1. you can post on my wall but only me can see them

2. you can tag me on your photos but they will only be visible to me

3. my photos were shared to the intended audience (not to all)

4. search for me was off

5. "add friend" was enabled to friends of friends only

6. message was only open for friends

7. and so on

I opt for that kind of security not because I am leery but because I believe that we should all be responsible for what we share online. More and more crimes were becoming possible nowadays with the help of the social networking sites and with that, we have to be careful.

But I am glad that somehow I am learning to trust again and somehow in the long run be more open.

Reality bites, but don't be sad

2012-01-19T07:00:00.000+08:00

Yeheey! at long last, today is the last day of my 2 weeks medication. After a hard battle with the seemingly endless fever which later accompanied by cough, I'm feeling better. I want to share a different story today but that could wait since this post would somehow help you be aware.

As you all know, I am having some problems with my nose. I forgot to share the updates after I went to the ENT several months ago, but the doctor found out I have Atrophic Rhinitis, a type of rhinitis caused by the thinning of the nasal membrane. Not much information about it was shared on the internet. I tried to Google it several times but would only show sites with technical terms. Until today, I came across this website. Limited information was also given but it caught me between acceptance and freaking when I read the complications.

I don't recall if the doctor mentioned the case to me but I can't remember any, maybe because I was so woozy that time. To continue the story, there are two complicaitons (1.) Rhinorrhoea and (2.)Anosmia by which based on my observation, number 2 is the prominent complication in my case then, I FREAKED OUT. Why wouldn't I? I know my smelling ability was reduced (which is one of my best abilities before), but knowing the fact that I am facing the circumstances of completely losing my sense of smell...I almost cried.

The second complication was also responsible for the colds I endured while celebrating New Year, which I thought was just a common cold but was not because it is once again another condition triggered by the allergen looming around the corner. I am glad I consulted the doctor before taking over the counter medicines for cough. It was irritating, it wakes me up in the middle of my sleeping hours. At first I couldn't believe the cough has something to do with my nose, but after the doctor's thorough explanation, I left the hospital hands up, head down.

The good news, I am feeling better but extra precautions should be taken because this is the season of the allergen. Just another hint of precaution, be careful with the medicines you take. It is better to visit your doctor to make sure you're getting the proper medication. If you notice something strange is happening in your body, health or what you feel, consult the expert at once. Be safe.

antihistamines will save my day from allergens.

Antihistamines have different effects to people. You'll feel sleepy but other's may experience palpitation. Those with 6 hours effect will really drive you to bed (in my case) but most of the times, I'm taking those with 24 hour protection.

What now?

2012-01-13T09:00:00.000+08:00

Do you still remember how your blogging saga started?

For more than a week now, I am making my journey back to my old post, wondering what have I written in almost 3 years. Yeah, 3 years this coming February but it's not obvious. There are many bloggers out there who started their blogs just a year or a few months ago but their blogging success reaches the mountain top. I might have the same success if I created my blog for the sole purpose of earning online. But going back to my old post in like journeying back in time where my purpose in blogging was rekindled.

Truth be told, 3 years ago, I created this blog for the mere purpose of curiosity. I just wanted to know the feeling. How to do it and how it feels to own one even though I have no idea what to write. I can't even remember it's first name. As life goes on, I never did imagine that his space would be my solace in adversity. A place where I could vent my emotions. And going back to my old posts somehow made me happy because of the life I was able to give to every word I had written. Very spontaneous because it reflects my life, my feelings though not obscure because I do not seek pity when I'm down.

And today, another day to pour my heart's content. As I continue with this journey for the love of writing, I sometimes found my brain empty of words and my heart void of interest. And today I found the culprit for my dilemma, it's the fact that I lost the soul of my post, waiting for heaven to bestow me with a topic to write instead of wring my heart out.

I gained great friends through this space and this space will continue to be like how it started - the home of my thoughts. If ever comes a time that I am serious with earning online which is by this time I have no idea how to put to life (if you have idea let me know), I will put up another blog.

What now? I will continue this journey together with the great friends I found while reminiscing the days how our great friendship started. Felicity isn't it?

You've Got Snail Mail!

2012-01-10T03:08:00.000+08:00

Not so long ago in one of my previous post, I confessed how I wished for the World Wide Web to crashed so we could go back to the good old days of snail mail. Today, I will profess my endearment with snail mail, not for the sole reason of collecting stamps but for the excitement and joy it brings.

Last week, right after I posted the story about the Christmas card I got from sis Kris, I saw the post of TB of Year 31 about the new blog game she created for the love of snail mail. I joined, because like her, I too am amazed with the idea that something I was holding today will be on the hands of someone halfway around the world.

from Year 31

I think I already mentioned this kind of project to Sis Kris the last time on how I would like to send snail mail to people. Since TB already came up with the brightest idea and rules, she made my life and my desire come to realization with no sweat.

How to join? Please read below. Please take note how awesome the rules are, no limit and you can do whatever you want. It's the thought that counts.

1. Write a blog post announcing that you're participating.

2. Copy these rules and the above icon into your post.

3. Ask people to comment if they are willing to participate on their own blog. Sorry, but you MUST have a blog to join in on the snail mail action.

4. Choose a winner (or two or three) from your comments section. You can choose your winners however you like--at random, first comment, whoever lives the farthest--it's your blog, do what you want!

5. Go shopping (or scavenging)! Pick out items that are easy to mail and cost under $5. Be thrifty, be creative. Got something good lying around the house? Send that! Mailing your gift to another country or region? Send a local candy or snack item! In this case, it really IS the thought that counts.

6. Mail those items to your chosen winner(s), and one to the person who sent you a gift (if you received one). Send a little note with the gift--show off your (little-used) handwriting!

7. No need to tag other bloggers. The game will be passed along through the posting of snail mail.

8. You don't have to be chosen to participate. If you want to join in the fun but nobody mailed you anything, just start with #1 and away you go!

VERY IMPORTANT: By commenting and saying that you are willing to participate, you are promising to pay it forward. Please only join in if you are willing to give your address (through private email) to the blogger whose blog you are commenting on.

I will choose three special people who will receive my snail mail in random. Join the fun and magic of snail mail.

A royal mail for the holiday

2012-01-06T06:26:00.002+08:00

Warning: This is a post Christmas post. Not that I'm lazy but because I don't want to let the spirit of the season go. At least not yet. I'm still nostalgic with the food, decorations, gifts, the presence of family members and the comfort of home.

Rewind: on the second week of December, something came in the mail for me from the land of the kings and queens. At first I couldn't believe the fact though I'm already holding it on my hand. I'm way totally awed to received something from the place I long wanted to visit. It's a double intense feeling because I know it's not just a Christmas card, there's little pieces of happiness inside.

I'll let the pictures speak for themselves of how great this dear card is. Of course goosebumps and bliss to realize that snail mail is not yet gone. Thanks sis Kris for making my Christmas extra special. If you wanna experience the life in UK though you're not there, visit Kris' blog, Kalokang Buhay ng Isang Pinay sa UKay and be struck with the cakes she bake, the Legoland and bits and pieces of their life in the UK.

my first card from UK - first - as though anticipating for more to come (hahaha)

lovely message full of love.

Wouldn't your heart skip a beat to see the handwriting of a friend you've come to know while blogging?

Now when I read Kris' blog, it's though I am seeing her handwriting legibly scribbled on the page.

as promised - sorry for the picture's poor quality

little happiness with the card - additional collections and a great idea for the wrapper.

THUMBS UP!

Dear Kris: Thanks for the happiness, card, greetings, wishes, the stamps

and for the wonderful friendship that just crossed the boundaries of the blogging world.
I will be forever grateful.

Hello Friends and welcome 2012!

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000+08:00

By the time you're reading this, I am either: patiently waiting for the year to end and for a new year to start, sitting around the dining table, eating as much fried chicken than what I was allowed to eat while the surrounding is noisy with firecrackers and all kind/sort of noisy means to welcome 2012 or I am soundly sleeping.

Which of which, I am wishing for your safety and may you all have a wonderful celebration in welcoming the new year. May everyone be filled with love, forget all the hurts and start a new life.

Have a Prosperous New Year!

It's cold and there's something I hate to do - But I'm still doing it!

2011-12-28T07:30:00.000+08:00

The longeeeeest title ever........

No excuses afterwards: What insect came into my brain to post this... I would understand if tomorrow I don't have friends anymore. LOL! A very random fact on a cold morning brought about by the changing weather and the air condition on my back which I wanted to destroy right now.

I noticed the changes in the wind at night. It's getting colder and colder. I know it will last until February and it gets me excited.

But there is one thing I'm afraid to do or lazy to do rather.

The reason why I was late for one minute at work. It's something I have to do.

I can't sleep or step out of the house and meet friends without doing it.

It's a must but it's taking me too long to complete the process and there is no shortcut to get it done (doing it twice a day), that's why I hate doing it. BUT I HAVE TO.

I'll leave it hanging for you to guess. I know you'll get it and would understand why :) you know my weakness.

If ever we'll meet someday around late December to February, and I'll be late....you know the culprit so don't be mad at me. Okay!

A little help won't hurt

2011-12-23T03:31:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday, it was one week before Christmas Eve

While I was struggling to complete my Christmas list

Our countrymen from Northern Mindanao were trying to save theirproperties

While were safely tucked inside our homes, they’re struggling for theirlives

Everyday news only shows how bad the situation is with dead bodieseverywhere

I remember I talked to a friend last time and I said why my heart seemsto be like a rock

Tried and tested by time, hardened by the circumstances

But seeing children lost their lives while their bodies were held bythe mourning parents

Surely, only a rock won’t cry.

In times like this, Filipinos always manifest a great spirit full ofhope

That in every crisis we’re always ready to stand up from the fall

Even those who just have enough tried to help and for sure

A little help won’t hurt

A lot of people helped and were helping but more help is needed

With our prayers and little donation, no matter how small when puttogether

Will help sustain life and bring hope

This maybe one of the saddest Christmas but now is also the righttime

To show the true spirit of what we’re celebrating.

For those who are willing to help, 7 eleven branches are acceptingdonations,

just approach the crew on the counter and they will give you yourofficial receipt

Or click here for more ways how you can help – whichever is moreconvenient for you.

THANK YOU VERY MUCH!

photos via:

This Christmas

2011-12-16T01:20:00.000+08:00

Christmas never cease to be my favorite time of the year. An event I always look forward to, and I consider more important than my birthday. This excitement rooted form my childhood memories. I remember how I used to hang my Christmas socks on our window on the 24th of December so that Santa won't have a hard time looking for a perfect place for my gifts. That I believed, until I caught my family at midnight sneaking on my socks to put the present.

This year I started to draft my plans as early as September from the gifts list down to the smallest detail. But no matter how I tried to create a perfect plan to accomplish everything, I am still short and way behind my Christmas schedule. We only have 9 days until Christmas and now I am conditioning myself for the Christmas shopping rush which is most likely to happen because I am not yet even on the 1/4 of my plans. Not to mention that I have to stay here (work) until the 24th before I could finally join my family for the celebration. It's another battle against long line on ticket booths, heavy traffic and if there's no more seat available - stand in the bus for almost 2 hours just to get home.

That's how messy life will be for me this coming 9 days and if you have spare time, please lend me some. But everything is worth the effort and time. Christmas is my favorite and the most special.

And a little update to the people who are interested and concern. First thank you so much. Right now I am caught in the middle of a busy season in our office and several books to read. End of the year (4th Quarter) seems to be the hardest and the most hectic schedule for us with endless meetings every now and then.

I 'll be in touch and will response to your kind emails and tweets asap. Thanks!

Where did my time go?

2011-11-14T19:06:00.001+08:00

We're on the middle of November and I can't stop thinking where did my time go. The year is about to end and I had this feeling that my time goes to waste. But if I would take a look back to all the adventures, fun, laughter and tears - time didn't go to waste but there's a craving in me to do more of the time given to me.

In less than 2 months, 2011 is over. It's another year again and needless to say new beginnings for those who seek a new life. I myself doesn't follow new year's resolution. For me, it's a come what may situation. Just enjoy the time and what life has to offer.

I am not making any new year's resolution because I am not good with it. I tend to procrastinate and throw my list on the bin. Same with bucketlist. But who said I have to do/complete the list in a matter of short time? It's just me who put pressure to myself. I realized I have to do the list but I am not compelled to complete it at once. I just have to take the chance when opportunity knocks.

Now, with no pressure, I am in the process of completing my list of all the things I wanted to do in my life even if it will take me forever to complete it. No pressure at all.

Post ala Twitter

2011-11-09T07:08:00.000+08:00

How are you guys? Hope you're all doing fine and having a great time, enough sleep and plenty of energy which I don't have (just the energy and sleep). Yes, I was deprived of quality sleep again so the lack of energy, I would blame it to the lack of sleep.

I can't keep a grasp of the proper words to write one decent post. All the updates I attempted to write ended up residing on the draft folder. I hope I could sum up everything in 140 characters because I am too lazy and drained right now. But I don't want November to end without making an update especially now that the year is about to end (where did my time goes?). So here is a post ala @Twitter to sum it up.

-Can't wait for #thanksgiving

-Updating my #bucketlist on a website I found so I could keep track of my performance.

-I'm so tired #justsayin'

-watched #intime - gimme more time!

-We have a new work schedule because of #DST. There are pro's and con's.

-someone called me #guesswho

-dear #globe, please call me now.

-#Christmas, please slow down a bit. Just walk don't run!

-Reading "House of Daughters" a #novel.

-doing a final touch to the story I will send to @kikilabotz later..

-it's time to rest.

Let me know if you have suggestions on how can I sleep better. Thanks.

It's not Trick or Treating that I miss

2011-10-31T07:53:00.000+08:00

If you want to make me cry, you cannot use this topic to bring tears to my eyes. It's a moment in my life that I for a long time endured and accepted. I poured all the tears the day he bid his last goodbye but a moment I was not on his side.

He was strict but loving. He never failed to bring me a slice of custard cake when he gets his paycheck. I tagged along when he's going out of town. I accompanied him when he visits his friend. I helped him watched the chickens in the poultry. I watched him cut bamboo trees to make a chair. He let me borrowed his racing bicycle. I am his avid fan when he played baseball. We strolled town after town pedaling our bicycles. He loves coffee.

On December 15, it will be 10 years since he's gone. I didn't notice it's been that long. Maybe because I am still keeping him and his thoughts alive in my heart. And I know we didn't waste anytime of our time together.

But today is different. I was too emotional which is not usual for me. It maybe because I will not be there tomorrow to light a candle, bring him flowers and offer my prayers. I terribly miss my father.

I don't give a D*** F

2011-10-27T19:14:00.000+08:00

Last time a good friend of mine told me she likes my picture on twitter. She said it implies the attitude of "I don't give a d*** f****** care". Thanks to her I came up with a post, hahaha.

"Nobody can hurt me without my permission"

Above is a famous line from the famous Mahatma Gandhi. I have it on file since the day I don't remember when. I love collecting quotations and inspirational messages either from famous or unknown scholars.

Why am I writing about this? Maybe you're thinking I am in pain right now or is suffering from depression. Don't panic, cause I don't. Coincidence also works in mysterious ways because when I go over the quote above, someone also educated me with a psychological fact (according to her) that "emotional pain only last for 12 minutes and anything after that is self inflicted". Ouch!

Ouch!!! Because I suddenly realized what I did to myself when I let people hurt me. I gave them the permission to take away years of my life. I was a bad caretaker of myself.

But that was the case before when I have no control over my emotions. Now I choose to be proactive. I want to make the best out of those emotions, let them bring out the best in me by focusing on the lessons rather than the pains. That doesn't mean I'm invulnerable.

Letting yourself feel the pain in a matter of time will help in easing the pain itself. Time will come you'll realized you're just punishing yourself by letting yourself sulk and you'll be encouraged somehow to get going and let bygones be bygones. It's just letting yourself cry when you have to and after letting the tears fall down, all that was left were clean eyes and a light heart.

for your viewing pleasure this is the picture

please bear with it.

Baguio's Mines View Park

2011-10-25T18:24:00.000+08:00

The journey back to Baguio continue. We arrived in Baguio after long 6 hours of travel probably around 6 p.m. Sorry I wasn't able to check the exact time because I was so hooked looking at the houses covered with fogs. We can't barely see what's around us and I am also nervous at the same time. We get off the bus and our hotel is situated along the road so no sweat even though our bags were really heavy. Besides, there's no room for sweat in Baguio - hahaha!

I won't bore you with any of my words. Without further ado, savor yourself with the photos I got. Please bear with them and with me

the view on the back porch of our room

Me with an umbrella because it's raining. Wait till you see what we have down the park

Mines View Park, the place I was so afraid when I was young (afraid of heights)

Back then, I was so delighted to see the kids maneuvering on big rocks and towering heights

to catch the coins thrown by tourists never aware that that would cost their lives.

Now the said practice was prohibited by the local government to protect the lives of the kids as well. Thank God.

Mines view park covered with fog. Mountains were not visible and it's cold.

Mines View Park. Same as above minus the fog. We go back to the place the second time, because the fog and the rain didn't let us enjoy on our first time.

Travel with Comfort

2011-10-21T08:19:00.000+08:00

When I was 5 years old, I lived in a cool high place, where the weather is nice and the wind is so cold even when the sun is so high. The summer capital of the Philippines, Baguio. I remember how afraid I was because the houses were built on the mountain slope. 5 years old, that was the last time I set foot on that place until we're able to arrange a trip back to Baguio.

The place is far from Manila and the only means to be there is to travel by land for almost 6 hours through buses or private cars. But the road is zigzag and it's safe if well practiced drivers were the one to take you there. So with that being said, we opted to entrust our lives to Victory Liner. We're on the bus station by 10:00 something in the morning and purchased our tickets. You can also reserved tickets 8 business days before your departure. I would suggest that you order the tickets ahead of time because their De Luxe buses travels just 4 times in a day so the chances of you ending on a regular air conditioned bus is high.

the waiting area for the passengers of Deluxe buses
it has television and it's air conditioned.

while waiting for the bus, my bags deserve a shot

going aboard the de luxe bus
a 29 seater air conditioned bus with stewardess,
portable toilet and wi-fi.
Non stop travel, hooray!

Our departure time was 12:20 p.m. And in all fairness they strictly followed the time. Some might say this was luxury but for us who came from work, graveyard shift, sleepless and tired, I think we deserved this. Just look how big the seats are, you can bent them so you can sleep well and each seat has foot rest. Because our plan was to sleep the entire 5 hours of travel. But that didn't materialized because we're busy looking out the window and savor our eyes with the view. They also serve snack in the middle of the trip. So with a little/big difference from the fare of the regular air conditioned bus, I think it's all worth it especially we traveled with heavy baggage.

P.S. this is such a long story, I don't know where to start. More post about the places we visit on the next post.

Wazzup Tokyo Tokyo?

2011-10-15T09:08:00.001+08:00

Where should I start? I've been losing my blogging spirit lately and before my blogging soul separates from my body, I will share with you one of the fast food chain I love to dine.

I am not a fan of Japanese food but one of my companions love this place and the food. Even I disagreed, I couldn't disagree harder. This was his favorite place and every time we dine out, it was his choice. I remember ordering the same set of food as always because I was afraid the food wouldn't suit my appetite but I was wrong. Little by little I gave in.

Due to unnecessary circumstances I ignored Tokyo Tokyo for a very long time. It's one of the places I never dared to look back. I had a love and hate relationship with the place...ha-ha-ha! You can't blame me right?

But earlier this year, I gathered all the energy within me and visited the place again. Of course I weighed myself and my feelings. Though afraid at first, I still continue walking towards the entrance. Inch by inch I get closer and I felt nothing but a sudden urge inside to say "Wazzup Tokyo Tokyo, it's been a long time, nice to be here again".

Hooray!!! I entered the place again with a happy face and a smile not only in my lips but also in my soul.

While waiting for my food (vegetable and shrimp tempura), I let my eyes wander. That's when I realized that the place was renovated. The ambiance is new and refreshing just like what my heart felt. Like I had a brand new heart which is so light and jolly.

P.S. I had a great time in Baguio. Vacation really do good not only for the body but for the soul as well. I am still gathering my thoughts regarding the trip and will write about it soon. My lazy body had a fusion with my lazy mind - hahaha :)

Part 3 - An Adventure I won't forget

2011-10-05T02:28:00.003+08:00

the continuation of the saga of my almost trip to heaven. To refresh your memories, you can go back here .

Third Day: The Island of Borawan

The only option left for us is to take a detour to the nearby island named "Cutcutan". Upon hearing the name of the island, I stared to one of my buddies who used to live in our province. In our local dialect the meaning of the name of the island is "Libingan" or cemetery. But of course we stayed quiet. We don't wanna add reasons for our buddies to freak out, knowing that we're actually freaking out. The boatmen carefully navigated the boat onto that island where we ate our lunch but we already lost our appetite. With that situation, we're left with 3 options:

1. Trek to Borawan Island via the port for 2 hours.

2. Walk along the shore till we reached Borawan which isn't too far...that's what I thought

3. Take the chance of risking our lives again by going back aboard the boat and declare amok with the waves....which we all thought wasn't a good idea.

We all go for option 2. We took a walk until the boat fetched us on the side where it is safe to ride again. Well for me, I still have the fear factor and if anyone would accompany me, I would rather continue walking till we reach Borawan.

Below is the shore were we opted to take the walk. The rock formation are wonderful

And he even manage to strike a pose. Yep, we made fun of the situation. Better take the opportunity to enjoy rather than welcome wrinkles, right?

The entire day was really hectic and fearful. As we reached Borawan, we're already tired. We camped beneath the huge rock formation and in front of us is the sea shore. We fell asleep with the sound of the waves and gecko as lullabies.

our camping site and our tent. mine is the second from the left

the view of the ocean inside the tent

and woke up in the morning with this view

a morning greetings from the sun

this scene was spectacular

me and my buddies

And the jump shot

After long and tiring days we're happy and blessed that finally we stepped our foot onto the land again after our almost trip to Heaven.

It's Free but Priceless

2011-09-26T12:32:00.000+08:00

When was the last time I smiled to strangers? I can't really remember. I am not snobbish, though people told me I am.

I am NOT snobbish

Maybe I am living on a fast pace surrounding which made me forget that there's more to life than office work and stress.

Just want to share a short story which happened in a span of 30 minutes. Last week, I went home late from work. Needless to say I have no more time to cook my meal. There's no other options left for me than to buy my lunch on a fast food chain. So off I go and went directly to the line and ordered my food. The crew asked for my order and asked me if its for "dine in" or "to go". I opted for the latter.

While she's preparing for the food, the other crew prepared my drink which she put on a glass intended for dine in meals. When she gets to the counter, I told her it's for take out. I can tell that' she'd done a lot of work though the day just started - I saw it in her face. But she willingly went back to the food section and do the necessary revisions. Though I am really sleepy, I gave her a "HUGE SMILE" and said "THANK YOU". Mind you, I always say thank you but I seldom smile.

Seriously, she put my drink on the counter and went away, but she looked back to me after 3 steps realizing what I said and did...She smiled back. I know she's happy!

Walking away from the counter I know I made one life happier with a simple gesture. I felt happy too. It's free yet priceless so why not give it away everyday. So from now on, I will always be like this:

it took me like forever to upload the picture

it seems like Google doesn't want to accept it

but in anyways, the upload became successful

maybe that means, I should be ready for shame. LOL.

So SMILE people, it's contagious!

Part 2 - An Adventure I won't Forget (Our Camping/Island Hopping)

2011-09-23T08:54:00.000+08:00

if you missed part 1 it's here

Day 2 at Puting Buhangin Island ---supposed to be

After breakfast, we went sight seeing, took some pictures and collected shells, while the others are enjoying the cold water on the beach. I didn't tried cause there is no water available for us to rinse our body. We have to buy one container for a price of 35 pesos. But we did of course. We needed clean ourselves before heading to the next island.

Below are some of the pictures taken before leaving Dampalitan

At around 10:00 p.m. May 29, 2011, Sunday, we loaded our things on the boat and off we go to the second Island - Puting Buhangin. It is the farthest of the 3 islands that's why we opted for it so we could settle and fix our camp there. The sea seems so calm and friendly but not until we're at the middle of our journey.

The waves started to rise and somewhat ready to devour us in no time. My gal pals were shouting cause they're at the front row where the impact of the waves on the ship was very evident and alarming. I was relaxed until one of the big waves hit our boat sideward and that made me stand in fear. The boatmen shut off the engine so we wouldn't go any further and that's when we decided to go back. The problem was we're already at the middle and going back means risking our lives on the same big waves. I never thought that kind of fear would struck me. The boat was like a surfboard on top of the giant waves.

to be continued again...the last part with more pictures to come.......

An Adventure I won't Forget (Our Camping/Island Hopping) Part 1

2011-09-21T08:04:00.000+08:00

This is a post long overdue. The story about our island hopping in the province of Quezon.

Day 1 at Dampalitan Island:

May 28, 2011, we packed our things and pushed through with our camping trip despite the pitiful weather condition. It's not like were not minding it but the forecast seem unstable and that made our minds. This was an island hopping adventure with lots of fun as we anticipated it, but what we had was an adventure and not much of a fun.

look at the sky that day

When we reached the seashore, the boat which will take us to the first island was not there. According to our contacts, it transported some tourist to another island but couldn't go back quickly because of the big waves. Needless to say, we have to wait for the boat to arrive and for the waves to settle.

After almost 2 hours in waiting, the boat finally did arrived. Sigh of relief for us and we immediately loaded our stuffs and off we go to the first Island called Dampalitan at around 4:00 in the afternoon. We pinched the tent and cooked our food. Cause we came from a night shift before that, all of us were sleepless and tired so after eating my dinner I decided to take a rest before hanging out with the gang. But my anticipated few minutes of sleep lasted till midnight and I did awake with the sound of raindrops falling on my tent. The rain gets harder and harder and the water started to kill my tent, so I decided to move out and leave my camping bag in the middle to save it from getting wet. I sacrificed for the sake of my camping bag and the result for me was an aching body due to cold raindrops.

We thought it wouldn't last long but it did. Thank God one of the local folks there offered us one of their nipa huts where we can stay for the night and wait till morning so we can fix our things and our camp. Well, that's how it goes for the first day. We're tired, wet and sleepless.

to be continued........

sorry for the picture quality, I was sooooo tired

Welcome Back to My Christmas Directory

2011-09-17T03:00:00.000+08:00

Hello September! I know it's already half of the month and I barely noticed it, though I am staring at the calendar everyday.

It's Ber months again and that means taking your jackets and sweaters out of your closet because the wind is colder than it was during the rainy season. It's the time for a happy environment, merry makings, delicious food, sparkling lanterns, gigantic Christmas tress, gifts and the time of giving and loving. How could I possibly miss September 1?

But it's better late than never. Today September 16, 2011, (exactly 100 days before Christmas) I will give life to my Christmas Directory page for the second time. It's a page dedicated for Christmas where I put all the things I am planning to do until December 25th, the gifts I already collected and all the plans and preparations for Christmas.

I hope with this simple manifesto I can continue showing kindness to people everyday eventhough the season ends - in any way the spirit of Christmas should always be present everyday.

We have different cultures and traditions in celebrating Christmas but what is important is we're celebrating it's real essence - the birth of our savior.

Advance Merry Christmas everyone and I am hoping you could join me in my countdown.

source

McDonalds Delivery Bag

2011-09-03T09:10:00.000+08:00

We have a long weekend because it's labor day on Monday. Someone sent me a text message but I am in doubt with his intentions. I don't have any idea what he's up to. Okay, now that I mentioned that, let's forget about it.

Today me and my office mates made fun with our flash drives. We searched our admin's cabinets (shhhh-these are spare and we have permission) for spare casings and we switch ours with trendy one. Will show 'em to you next time. What I would like you all to see was what I found inside the flash drive.

A huge bag where I can fit snugly.

Believe me when this bag is carried on my back properly, its length is almost 3/4 of my body height. And the bag itself is so heavy.

The Itchy Fever

2011-08-29T14:19:00.000+08:00

Anothertyphoon hits the country and it’s raining hard outside last Saturday morning.Because I’m a nocturnal being working on graveyard shift, rainy Saturday for memeans difficulty of going home. We cannot discern when the rain will stop so wedecided to go out of the office not minding the fickle weather.

Asfickle as it can be, the rain poured so hard when we’re outside. My shoes werewet; the crying sky ignored my umbrella. We (me and my friends) decided to takerefuge on the nearest establishment called “Molito” (a small mall). Thoughsmaller than a regular mall, it has what we need, food and food. We’re sohungry folks! A girl was standing on the main entrance with handful ofleaflets. She gave us one and we hurriedly went to the second floor. However wehurriedly went down again to ask for another leaflet. Why? Because of the “Buyone take one Meal” offered by Mang Inasal. It’s a chicken meal which goes withunlimited rice. You know I’m a diehard fan of chicken so, no question from mewhen they decided to have our lunch there.

sorry folks, this is the only picture I got

no camera on hand

Idevoured the chicken and 2 cups of rice for a nice price. It’s so deliciousespecially when paired with an ice cold coca cola. The crew then offered me athird cup of rice but it was I who said no. Hello, my stomach is so full. Imagine me - one of my hand touching my stomach and the other one swaying left and right as a signal to the crew that I don't want another cup.

Afterwardswe went upstairs because Raj-Raj (one of my friends) needs to buy something. We agreed that we’re all exhausted and sleepless so we decided to go home butof course not until she got what she needs.

CameSunday morning my whole body has small red dots and my hands were itching. Thechicken no matter how delicious it can be, brings allergic reaction to my body.I didn’t ate in moderation. I should only eat a chicken meal once in a week butI broke the rule and this is my consequence, an itchy fever. Before the allergycame out, I lavished myself the past week with chicken burgers (plural) and othersavory chicken meals for lunch and dinner.

Ifyou’ll ask me, will I break the rule again, honestly, YES but not until I getrid of these itchy red dots.

Optimism

2011-08-26T07:34:00.002+08:00

I am having a great time at Pinterest, thanks to Mayen for introducing it to me. They have great stuffs there from foods, house decorations and DIY.

Today while looking for great finds, I came up with this one. I am lost for words but I know the picture itself is worth a thousand words. I was like, HAHAHA!!!, when I saw it.

source

Netiquette

2011-08-24T06:46:00.000+08:00

Netiquette - Netiquette (a portmanteau of "network etiquette" or "Internet etiquette") is a set of social conventions that facilitate interaction over networks, ranging from Usenet and mailing lists to blogs and forums.

The nature of my work entails email correspondence as the major way of communication between us and our clients. It's only prim and proper for us to follow the basic netiquette of sending, replying and confidentiality which aspects are common and similar to what we practice everyday even offline.

Although blogging is therapeutic it wouldn't always promise a happy day. Time will come you will encounter trolls and flamers. But anyhow, if you haven't experience one -----> lucky you!

The not so lucky me would like to share some netiquette I found applicable for blogging although I know you already know them.

1. Remember the Human - it applies like the golden rule. Do unto others as you'd have others do unto you. In front of us is a tangible computer screen but do not forget, at the end of a computer network is a human being with feelings. Be careful with what you write because others may misinterpret your emails and comments because emotions and facial expressions weren't conveyed through them except when you really know the person.

2. Lurk before you Leap - When I come across a new forum, website or blog that interest me, l lurk and do backreads to have a glimpse of what it's all about and how people interact before leaving a comment.

I also find it necessary, though it does not apply to everybody, to introduce yourself to new blogs you followed before leaving a comment. Whereas, if I read the post and I don't know how to express my thoughts properly , I skip leaving comments.

3. Respect other people's privacy - although people share information through writing and their life is an open book, they're still entitled for a piece of privacy. It's rude to ask people about private information via comment. If you want to ask them something private or personal, you may send them an email.

And though we have freedom of expression, let us be responsible for what we share. Think before you click.

source

Think Before you click is a campaign by GMA News and Public Affairs to promote responsible use of social media

My Antidote

2011-08-20T07:36:00.000+08:00

The plague brought by the pessimistic virus has ended. But we should all be careful because it is contagious.

Walking is a great way to stimulate the endorphin,

the hormones that reduces pain and create pleasant feelings

(Tillman)

Back when I was child (insert the tone of "Dance with my Father" here), I find walking as a great relief to my aching heart. This is one of the activities I am good at and I love doing it whenever my father's bicycle isn't around (yes folks, I learned cycling using my father's mountain bike).

I was clueless then why it gave such a relief, but now I am aware. Walking is my antidote to depression and stress. Sometimes I forgot that I have this antidote, besides who would remember if your mind is preoccupied. But in time, circumstances will find a way to remind me that in the midst of a chaotic situation I can leave the situation for a while to witness not only the therapeutic benefit of walking but also the wonders of nature. Yesterday, I did it again and look what I found; a piece of happiness from mother nature.

Wondering how this grass made it up

on the tree trunk... hmmm, silly grass, isn't it?

a new life is coming out from the tree. Amazing

These are simple things that most of us don't appreciate because our eyes are gaze on the far end of the world. But if we will fix our eyes on what we have, we will discover that true happiness lies within ourselves and on everything that we have around us.

Have a great weekend everyone!

I'm Sorting Things Out

2011-08-18T02:26:00.000+08:00

I've become sort of a lazy gal due to overwhelming busy life I had the past few months. I just feel the need for enough sleep (I feel I'm deprived with sleep) and rest, until I realized I spend the rest of my precious hours doing nothing but sleeping. What a waste of time isn't it? So, before squandering the time I have on non-productive things, I should take my move to pursue the plans which are long forgotten and rekindle the interest on things I love to do.

I am glad to say I added a few addition to my stamp collections. It's been a long time and the only option I have is to buy them from local post offices because snail mail is no longer in. The rest of my collections were acquired through snail mails and gifts from friends so this was the first time I added a collection through buying. But don't worry they don't cost that much. So if anybody out there has some stamps left forgotten, AHEM, *cough-*cough....I'm here.

source

Next thing in line is putting documents together and completing the requirements for my Masteral's Degree. Yes, it's been an altered plan due to unexpected circumstances that blocks the way but now that things flow smoothly, I guess this is the right time to polish the plan so I could start as soon as second semester starts, if not at least I am ready for next year. I now have an intimate relationship with thick books to get my way ready for a long term study again.

source

These are few of the things I have in line while preparing for a long term plan. I will let you know soon as it gets to kicking but for now I will keep it a secret.

Negativity is striking us but I don't want to waste my energy on things that would hinder my way. I am glad that optimistic people surrounds me and I am happy that way. I'd rather focus on things that will make me grow and appreciate life more. Besides life is too short so why waste it. Have fun and enjoy things that life brings. "When life gives you lemon, make lemonade"

The Unwed Mothers

2011-08-13T07:46:00.001+08:00

My mind is vacant now. I'm trying to free it from work stuffs anyway it's weekend and I think I am entitled of enough time without stress.

But I don't know what's wrong with my brain. It seems to work even when I'm at sleep and it doesn't want to stop thinking. This morning, I found myself scanning the web looking for pictures of mother and child. I don't know what's with these kind of artworks but they really fascinates every bones in my body and they unleash the hidden artistic cells in me.

Then suddenly I thought of the unwed mothers and I was thinking if they are suffering the same disgust and insult if they're living on the other side of the world. I know my county is transforming from the contemporary to modern ways of living and there exist today those with open minds who can comprehend a lot and do not judge. However given that we're a transformation from a conservative country doesn't make the unwed mother free from the prying eyes of those who cannot bring their mind to understand.

I have a strong believe and love for our traditions and our beliefs and I do attest that my point of views drastically changed with the changes around me. If I was younger, I might judge them based on the judgement impacted to me by my society. But I feel so privilege that today, I see things differently. They may have been wronged but that doesn't mean they will be mistaken for the rest of their lives. I cannot imagine the ruthless and unending criticisms they reaped for a mistake they once did but will continue to be endured by their lovely children. How sad but true that for them, the wound may heal but the scar will be visible forever.

source

I am happy that I can take my stand to let the whole world know that I admire unwed mothers. Taking care of a precious life they choose to live and taking into themselves all the criticisms this world has to offer, yet they can still stand and give a good fight to life. They are much to be admired than those who are hiding their sh**s pretending to be saints. Anyway, everyone deserves a second chance after all.

Amidst my Busy Life

2011-06-17T05:37:00.084+08:00

It seems like eternity since my last update. Dallas won (hurray), classes starts and the blogger dashboard pretty resembles that of Wordpress which only proves that I missed a lot.

For those who are concern, I know I owe you a lot. I promised an update from the camping and I promised to show you the pictures. I was caught in the midst of two things (1.) My busy schedule at work and (2.) my malfunctioning brain.

For once, things at work never seemed to slow down. Everyday gets busier and the only time for me to relax is the time I press my thumb on the biometrics. We felt the sudden importance of work concentration because the projects we're currently working at are not so common. We have to take good care of them or else we'll be liable if we suddenly lost their business. I have to monitor deals with deadlines and these weren't ordinary projects. Fortune 1000 made me tremble.

At home, I'm soundly sleeping because of my antihistamines. Yes, I am on a two weeks medication which will end next week. Nothing serious (though others think it is) but I cannot procrastinate anymore. Health is wealth and I am to become the poorest person living on earth.

I am optimistic that everything will turn out right and hopefully I could buy myself a little time to go back to my regular posting schedule. Geee, by straight hair is now curly because of these things I can't seem to manage properly.

It's almost weekend and I hope to visit you this weekend. Please bear with me and hope you all had a great time always.

I am still amaze with this new blogger dashboard. Loving it!!!

That's what one of our client's quoted. It really make sense.

Ready to Go

2011-05-28T00:31:00.001+08:00

Our bags are packed we're ready to go.
As we bid goodbye to summer's rays of sunshine,
we welcome the rainy season by waging war against typhoon Chedeng!

I will pass this way but once if there's any good that I can do
Let me do it now for I'll never pass this way again
I will see this day but once if there's any kindness I can show
Let me show it now for I'll never see this day again
Tomorrow may be too late my friend to do all the good that you planned
So reach out to those who need you and lend them a helping hand
I will know this world but once if there's any love that I can give
Let me give it now oh Lord please show me how
For I'll never know this world I'll never see this day
I'll never pass this way again

-Glen Campbell

The kind of rain I am not Pleased with

2011-05-25T23:36:00.001+08:00

There’s a typhoon. Don’t have an idea if it’s about to hit the country or if it’s already here. The weather cracks. I can see the sun shining in the morning but the sky is dim in the afternoon. Right now the weather is a bit cold but there is no rain.

Yesterday it rained so hard in the evening. It compelled me to leave early so I have spare time just in case there’s turmoil in the street. By turmoil I mean flood and traffic. I left two hours before my call time and I reached the office 5 minutes before the said time when a regular trip would only take me 30 minutes from home to the office.

That same yesterday is the longest commuting hours of my life. I was stuck in the middle of the flooded street. It seems like the ocean had taken its leap to the city. My hooded jacket was wet and I felt so cold but more than that, I am worried about the mother who’s sitting beside me on the passenger’s jeep. She’s very worried that their house, at that moment might have been soaked in water.

I do wish for rain but not the kind of rain that will take lives and properties. Unity and camaraderie were tested and proven during disasters but I might as well want to witness it even when we’re at ease.

Rain, rain, go away, come again another day

source

Speechless

2011-05-24T00:00:00.003+08:00

This is why I Choose to Speak

2011-05-20T21:54:00.000+08:00

Have you seen children on the street hunting for food from morning till dawn? The kind of innocent faces who will block your way when your hands have something that can fill their aching stomachs. Have you ever seen little angels walking around the busy streets at night looking for a safe haven to settle and let the darkness pass? Yes, I do. I always do. And these children always made me go to work empty handed. What can I do, I’d rather let them have my food than see them roaming around hunting for a not so decent place to lay down while their parents are nowhere to be found.

While we're all sitting comfortably in front of our computers, innocent lives who's existence on earth was not of their choice are in great danger of sickness, rushing vehicles and famine out there.

Source

Responsible parenthood and birth spacing is one of the hottest issue in the country today. The headlines in newspapers and the topic of the news every day. The government had seen that passing the Reproductive Health (RH) Bill is one of the solutions to lessen not only the percentage of street children and to alleviate poverty but also to to ensure that each child will not be deprived of his basic needs (food, shelter and clothing) and be given the chance to rightful education till he can support him/herself.

My curiosity on this topic leads me to reading the whole content of the said bill, and visit forums which are in much debate of the topic. The debate of the pros and anti RH Bill leads people on the rally streets and on the House of Representatives.

I have my opinion and my excuses to readers who may have different perspective as mine. If what I read was right, I don’t have reasons to say no to RH Bill. For me it will just serve as a guide on how to become responsible parents and to use birth control alternatives of your choice except abortion ( I’m against it too) but no one will hinder you for having the children you want for your own.

You can have 3, 4, 5 or 10 children and more than that if you want. But make sure you can provide them with clothes for them to wear, roof to protect them from sunshine and rain, food to feed their stomach, and ample time to show them love and affection…….if not, then try to reconsider.

He made my Heart skip a beat

2011-05-19T22:03:00.000+08:00

It's raining outside and I was wondering earlier who among you who were under the same sky as me remembered how I love it, or else it didn't rain in your place. But this rain was different, not the kind of one I was waiting for, because it wasn't rainy season yet. It real one is yet to come.

Meanwhile in the midst of my busy life, I was able to finished just 10 episodes of "Nikita". A story of a secret organization known as Division who are recruiting people with dark backgrounds and erases their traces from the past and molds them to become spies and assassins.

And won't your heart skip a beat to a man in suit like him?

source

I admire how Nikita and Michael chase each other but given the chance doesn't have the guts to kill each other as well. And this isn't all about killing but how someone fights for the lost of their loved ones.

Silly Random Things

2011-05-17T06:43:00.000+08:00

Just a bit recap on how my weekend was. Last Saturday I went home with a flash drive and DVD's. Saved in the flash drive are my reports needed to be done. That may not sound appealing, but to me it was because I want to have a busy mind though I don't want it to affect my blogging time but it did otherwise. Without further ado, here's how it goes:

got the picture here

1. I came home and slept for a while. I told my roommate to woke me up at night because I have something to do. I rise from bed at around 7 in the evening and hit my way to the computer. I hate workbooks sometimes. They make me busy but they make me dizzy too! Errr!

I didn't finished the report cause I felt a little bit deprived of sleep and so I hit the bed again. I woke up in the morning heading back to the computer...again????, yes again (with games in between).

2. Sunday. I was about to attend a morning mass, I like it that way because majority of the people who will attend the mass are adults I mean oldies. I think they take the mass seriously. But wasn't able to go because I got dizzy (because of my report). I decided I would attend the last mass where only few people will attend. It was a success, I seated on the front row. The mass is going on smoothly until a couple seated beside me. They're arguing of something and they're murmuring, I can't concentrate when they're buzzing like bees. I was so pissed but then again I manage to control my emotion until they noticed that they're distracting us. Thank God.

3. When I got home, I hit the computer again but since I was good in multi-tasking (self-proclaimed), I finished watching 20 episodes of "Nikita". This is the kind of entertainment I like. One of my favorites.

And I have a new crush! What???

Why I Love it when it Rains

2011-05-14T07:18:00.000+08:00

I was sitting on my desk feeling cold. I'm chilling and I had a feeling it's raining outside. I slipped through the window blinds but I was disappointed to see the sunshine. It's weekend and I want raindrops tapping my rooftop.

It's a sudden realization. I don't hate cold weather. I may have low tolerance with cold but I am looking forward to the rainy season. I love raindrops, I love it's smell and the cold breeze of the air. I want to stay tucked in bed watching movies and surfing the net while sipping brewed coffee or a tea maybe.

Afterwards, when I got bored, I'll go out to take a walk under the pouring raindrops with my umbrella in tow. The wind is swaying and I love the feeling of the air kissing my cheeks. When the rain gets heavy and my umbrella could no longer protect me from getting wet, I'll fold it and enjoy the rain's enormous bliss.

It's the coldness of the air conditioned room that sucks me with cooling death, but a part of my heart's felicity lies from the truth that summer is coming to an end and raindrops will soon abound my doorsteps

enjoy the rain

"Everyone wants happiness, no one wants pain,

But you cannot make a rainbow

without a little rain"

Who's Blind?

2011-05-11T07:18:00.001+08:00

I miss reading your posts. I miss back-reading and I miss the blogosphere. It's like a gazillion years for me well in fact it's just a day or two since my last visit. I managed to sneak a bit however that bit of time isn't enough to connect.

I am buried on tons of reports now (please bear with me). The deadline is punching me right through my face but my mind is overwhelmed with my intense desire to write.

I also have one newbie to train. A newbie which will soon be part of our junior team. She has so much to learn but the process in becoming a part of the team will teach her the things she has to learn.

We also had some out of the topic conversation. Right now she's in a not so normal, not so legal, not so right relationship (okay, an illicit relationship-so to say) . The kind of relationship I'm not in favor with because there's one person who's being stepped on without her knowledge, that such situation is happening. (why not go out of the relationship first before engaging to another one? am I right?).

I asked her: Why she choose a complicated situation?

She said : I don't know, (she's speechless). Maybe because LOVE IS BLIND....

I told her:

"Love is not Blind

Lovers are not Blind

IT SEES BUT IT DOESN'T MIND..."

source

Thank You, I am Sorry, I Love You

2011-05-07T04:20:00.004+08:00

THANK YOU:

for the unconditional love. For I am naughty but still you love me

for the support. I am not worthy but still you lend your hand to me

for the understanding. I commit mistakes but still you open your heart to me

for letting me live. I am a pain but still you chose to carry me.

I AM SORRY:

for sleepless nights. you have to wait because I came home late.

for the tears you shed because of me, I was such a lousy.

for the heartaches I’d caused you, I broke your heart in two.

for the bad words I uttered, I didn’t mean them.

I LOVE YOU

for who and what you are

no words can express how deep is the feeling

words are not enough

and there are no reasons why

source

I owe you a lot. Everything we’ve shared and memories we've made will be cherished forever . I know I am nothing compared to you but in you I found a great inspiration.

--A special tribute to all the mothers in the world. Happy Mother's Day, and to you I give my highest respect.

From the Bottom of My heart

2011-05-05T05:04:00.002+08:00

2_ years ago, on this same day, my mother risked her life to bring one child to existence and that child is no other than me.

I was sitting quietly on my station, reading posts with no intentions of posting anything. I am always lost for words on a special day like this. But this awesome man made may day. He declared a holiday at Once Acre of Diamond county and today, Once Acre of Diamond will be 14th Street. Not to mention the wonderful combination of the banners.

"A happy Heart deserves a Happy Treat"

and from the bottom of my heart,

Thank you very much, You made my day!!!

from One Acre of Diamond

Beware

2011-05-04T04:59:00.001+08:00

I received two messages on my inbox today. Both from the same person. One was sent with a surname and the other one with just a name. I can tell right there and then that there's something fishy. I emailed her asap, and I am glad that she's already aware of what had happened and made a post on her blog to warn/inform her bloggy friends.

You can view the message from the screenshot below.

It was stated that she made a trip to other countries, had her bag stolen and asked for financial help. This kind of spam/scam has been widely used and maybe everyone's aware of it. However to be sure, you can check the details of the message. It's quite easy to trace a message from spammers rather than from people who hide on fictitious pseudos pretending to be not who they are. From the screenshot above you can see that the message came from the correct email address however is requesting a reply to be sent to an email address with different domain name.

Spammers and scammers will never stop. People like them who doesn't know how to get a life of their own will always come up with good reasons to fool people so we should always be extra careful and take safety precautions.

If you're using the same email address in accessing other accounts like Facebook, Twitter and Blogger, I would advise you to use different passwords. If by any chance your email address was hacked, you have your other accounts safe.

If you have other safety tips, you can share them to us. Thanks!

My Companion: Toblerone

2011-05-03T06:33:00.000+08:00

If you'll let me choose between a chocolate and a pack of Cheetos, I will pick the latter. However, Toblerone seems to be my birthday companion even though I am not an avid fan of sweets. This only proves one thing, "in life you'll not always get what you wanted but rather get what you deserve". Sweetness begets sweetness. (just Kidding-hahaha).

Last month I received an early birthday gift from one of my former students. She hand it to me together with a printed letter which she preferred to give in advance cause we might not see each other again in a long time due to our hectic schedule.

The last time I went home, my sister gave me a Toblerone. She let the poor chocolate aged in the refrigerator and let it await for my arrival.

Last year most of the gifts I received were Toblerone. And now, my birthday is yet to come and one of my officemates gave me, guess what, yes ------------------------------------------> a TOBLERONE!!!

Dear Toblerone, if you'll be with me throughout my life, can you do me one favor? On my next birthday let me experience and breath the air of Switzerland.

The Tale of the most sought after Victim of Frauds

2011-04-30T06:01:00.000+08:00

I am always a victim. The most sought after victim of fraudulent people. Today history repeats itself.

source

Yesterday, my colleague transferred a client to me. I need to seal the deal. There's no waste of time in convincing him, he doesn't have any issues with the price, with the additional expedited cost, he just wanted the materials to arrive on the earliest date possible. For him not to have any issues is a clear sign of fraud, because most of the time our legit clients haggle with pricing except for our valued customers.

Without any hassles the transaction was closed but any transaction closed without hassles is a possible fraud. After the conversation, I had the gut feeling, however I never paid attention to it because this time complete information was given. With that being said, I forwarded the details to our main office.

Today, the IT and admin personnel came to me with a great news! I WAS A VICTIM OF FRAUD..... AGAIN! This things happens to me over and over again and history seems to repeat itself. This client was supposed to be handled by the one who's handling the education program however it turned out that he should be under the corporate account that's why he was transferred to me. My colleagues are now convinced that I was destined to have all the clients who are using stolen credit cards to use for their payments and use stolen identities because (according to them) I am the one with the strong feeling to discern who's fraud and who's not. With the same thing happening every time, one day I might believe they are speaking the truth.

I always have the feeling. I am informing my immediate superiors. I will narrate the reasons why I made such conclusion that it's fraud but we will still forward the details to our main office, give them the warning and they will validate the data and everything.

So far so good. They tried but they failed. No one slip through the magnifying eyes of the investigators.

But despite that, we still have so much to be thankful for. This month, each and everyone reached the quota of US$_ _, _ _ _.00 or Php _, _ _ _, _ _ _. 00. We also received overwhelming positive remarks from our clients who are satisfied and happy with our service.

That made our heart swells.

Yeah, I'm Single!

2011-04-27T06:27:00.004+08:00

Today I will let my heart speak for itself regarding Pearl's post's "10 Facts of Being Single".

If you've been a constant Tumblr bystander, you have probably read these reasons and bliss of being single and of course they give solace to an aching heart.

1. You won't be single forever. You'll find the right person sooner or later.

2. Don't worry if you're single. God is looking at you right now saying, "I'm saving this girl/boy

for someone special.

3. You're single because God is not yet done writing the perfect love story for you.

and so on.....and so forth....! and I CONFESS...,

i got it here...

With this I may gather different reactions both positive and negative but like what I said, I'll let my heart speak for itself. I'm turning 20something on the 5th of May and I can attest to the fact that people change their views when they found their mature mental self. If I would be on my teenage years, I'll probably freaked out seeing couples around me but now, I see it in different perspective (the bliss of aging, LOL).

I'm single, it's my choice. I had a serious conversation with my heart and I know it's not yet ready to commit to another relationship. I don't want to push it to its limit just to show people I'm not alone. Not in any way I would commit to something I don't really want. Everything has its own time and I don't wanna rush things.

I previously let a part of myself drift away when I committed myself to loving someone. That is something that shouldn't happen in any kind of relationship and that is one lesson I learned the hard way. I'm not saying you should be selfish but more so do not let yourself be a second choice of yourself.

I am still gathering the few departed debris. When I'm complete and ready, that will be the time I will say yes to someone who have my heart and is eager to wait. When and where and who is the lucky one, God only knows.

Fact: I love vegetable salad. I love running, hiking and cycling. I love being with my friends even if it would take me long hours inside the bus just to see them. Those are realities I discovered when I suddenly got out from a previous relationship.

Why so late? Because I was busy taking care of "he who must not be named's" (I copied Al's way of naming someone) heart that I forgot to take care of mine.

Ride With Judy

2011-04-23T03:23:00.000+08:00

Once upon a time I had a "Love and Hate" relationship with the camera. "Hate", because I don't want to be the subject of the pictures. My friends then gave me the idea that instead of being the subject, why not be the one to capture the moment. Eventually the camera and I developed a "Love" relationship.

From that brilliant idea I created my photo blog "Ride with Judy" on September 2010. It contains all the photos I took out of nowhere unedited and accompanied by a certain quotation that I think best fit with the picture.

Eventually, I made it private at the same time I made a decision that 14th Street can only be viewed by invited readers only. That is because of a certain incident. But now, I am embracing a new life slowly and surely, I would like to go back to something I love doing. Taking pictures in a point and shoot manner but at least, I captured the moment.

There are three phases to awareness: To look, to see and to perceive.

A camera looks,

A mind sees,

A heart perceives.

-Anonymous

My Cross this Lenten Season: One Year After

2011-04-19T03:09:00.001+08:00

"Everyone had a cross to bear"

Lenten Season. The season for self denial and self-sacrifices. Upon hearing the gospel, I remember the last post I made last year entitled “My Cross this Lenten Season”.

photo credit

I can’t remember what I posted, but I know it was something of a burden I so carried heavily. During that time, hopes are with me that somehow I can manage to overcome and surpass everything. I am not going back to that moment again, I just want to analyze how far I was able to travel and the lessons I learned.

I would be a hypocrite to say I totally recovered. I don’t know the missing part but I know the certain link why I can’t totally forget the incident. But during that long year travel on a roller coaster ride, here I am still standing with a sound mind with I guess in a not so sound body but still I can manage.

I don’t have any intentions of awakening the past and scratch the old wound that had healed poorly and let myself be doomed to unmanageable stress, all I want is to share this question I had last year and how I got to find the answer.

Back then, my question is “Why do I have too many mountains and hills to climb in life?” And the answer is “for me to have a better view in life”.

It’s not easy to climb a mountain, but the climb itself is its own reward. Don’t give up. Go slowly, step by step. One day at a time. Don’t rush the climb. Learn from the climb, for he who climbs learns to travel light and leaves luggage behind. So if you are on a mountain climb right now, maybe God is freeing you from the unnecessary attachments and excess baggage that you don’t need in life. (Fr. Jerry Orbos, “One moment”).

If not for that painful journey, I would never be this strong. What else the world would offer, I can take it with a smile and hope of a better tomorrow.

If not for the criticisms I received I would never learn to take account of other people’s feelings.

I they didn’t judge me I would never learn not to be judgmental and be fair with my perceptions/judgement.

If not for that incident I would never be given the chance for this break and realize the world has so much to offer.

BOW...wow...wow!!!

My Vocation is the Noblest Profession

2011-04-15T05:39:00.001+08:00

Once I heard a story of the professionals who died and and should pass a screening before they could enter the gate of heaven. Each were asked what is the good deed they have done. Each of them answered:

Architect: I designed the most prestigious hotels and buildings in the world.

Engineer: I built all the buildings and hotels designed by the architect.

Doctor: I healed men from contagious and fatal diseases.

Teacher: I neither design/built a building nor cure men from fatal disease but I worked on the precious minds of these people.

photo credit

Before entering the corporate world I was once a teacher and in my heart I will always be. On a class response, I sworn before my colleagues and mentors that I will practice the noblest profession and vowed to mold thy precious minds. I got lost somewhere in the middle when I decided to take a slight detour but in my heart this vocation will always be remembered and above all be loved.

My heart sank in pain when people talk s*** about my beloved profession. I know there' no money in teaching and if you don't know that, the more reason you should be thankful for the dedicated people out there who still devote their time in teaching.

Fulfilling this calling isn't easy at all. You can't wear this, you can't do that, you have to be like this and you have to be perfect. People demand that you should be perfect but they will degrade your profession in return. You will always be a subject of criticisms. They criticize this profession but without it, no profession will ever exist.

Teachers are not perfect, they have their flaws, they are humans and most of all nobody is perfect.

I will give you the rights to criticize and degrade educators if and only you will be doctors, engineers, and architects without passing through a molding hand of a teacher.

She Did It!

2011-04-13T01:58:00.002+08:00

As promised, I'll tell you what happened during my vacation. This is the first part.

One of the reason why I took a vacation leave was my niece' graduation last March 07, 2011. Probably one of her parent's concerns is her college degree program. Like anywhere in the world, it is very expensive to send a child in a university and it will take hard labor and sweats to have one child finish a course.

But fate and luck is on my niece side because she was chosen as one of the top 10 students in the Philippines. The recipient of the Academic Excellence Award for Luzon to receive a full scholarship (that includes full tuition fees, miscellaneous fees and allowance) for the whole college course of any degree and university of her choice. This is a project of SM foundation and former vice president Noli De Castro together with the Department of Education (DepEd).

I was shocked and teary eyed when I heard the news that she was chosen. Actually we didn't expect much and for her being on the top 40 is already an achievement. All her hardship were being paid off. After a week of exams, essay writings and interviews by the DepEd officials and the panels she finally did it, not to mention the rigorous paper works and ranking she had gone through. Finally the awarding was held last March 28, 2011at GSIS building but I wasn't able to attend because I was sick.

She was also featured in Inquirer Lifestyle Beta when she bagged the Best Debater award during the Oxford-Oregon Debate from the 3rd Student Leaders Congress organized by the National Association of Secondary Schools in the Philippines (NASSPhil) which was held in Baguio.

She marched as Valedictorian of Class 2010-2011 and her father cried right there on the stage when awards were given to her. I am really clueless how she managed to be on the top of her class since nursery. She's not a nerd nor a weirdo but rather a cool girl and until now, I'm still in the state of shock. The whole community celebrated for her and were there during the small gathering her parents organized.

I am thankful that she's starting to reach her goals. I remember the day she talked to me on how she wanted to pursue her college degree in Manila. Now everything is settled including the university where she will study.

23 Days to go

2011-04-12T06:27:00.000+08:00

How do you expect me to remember your birthday, when you

never look any older? hahaha!

photo credit

I saw the calendar, counted the days and poooop, it's 23 days before her birthday. When that day strikes on the calendar, she's always out of her mind and that severe excitement leads her to doing nothing at all. Was her birthday ever forgotten? Nope. It's always a day which calls for celebration --- greetings and wishes pouring but to the celebrant it is becoming prevalent.

On the celebration of another year of existence, this girl would like to make it something special than any other birthdays. She doesn't want a big party as always but wanted to make this extraordinary so not to feel life is passing her by.

She wants to share more, but there's this inner thought that's holding her back. She wants to share however reluctant to people. On her upcoming birthday, she wish to write an open letter and not password protected. If you would like to share or say something to her, leave your comments.

Question: The mind of A Criminal

2011-04-08T08:00:00.013+08:00

Ms. G once asked me to answer a given scenario which goes like this:

There was this funeral when the mother of a girl died (cause unknown). In the said funeral she saw a man (who's not known to everyone) whom she feel in love with but never seen him again. After a month, the girl killed her sister.

Question: Why did the girl killed her sister?

(note: this is a scheduled post. I'll reveal the answer when I'm back from vacation. sorry if I can't visit your blogs now.)

The Cosmopolitan Chick is going home

2011-04-06T00:23:00.010+08:00

First and foremost, I am not a chick (if your definition of chick is sexy and head turner - just saying). I just can't think of a better title, so there you go.

I am enjoying my life in the city but lately my feet are itching to go home so I filed for a vacation leave and guess what....................drum rolls.........................IT WAS APPROVED!

this is home, the hot air balloons,

the giant lanterns every Christmas,

and the air bases.

This wasn't a pure vacation because the real intent of this leave is for me to rest and free my mind of the stress we endure everyday in the office. Don't get me wrong. I love my job and the work is really easy if you love what you're doing but everyone deserves a break and this is my time to shine.

There goes with this ~~escapade~~ leave is a long list of things to do:

1. Bonding time with my family

2. To catch up with some old goody antique friends (yes antique, cause were friends since
elementary).

3. Visit the old place where we used to live and see how it goes now.

4. Witness my niece breathtaking graduation ceremony (yup, I'll post about it later).

5. Do some hiking.

6. Jog around the park

7. More practice on riding the motorcycle.

8. Relax and Rest

9. Finished the first phase of making a webpage ( i'm serious folks, so help me God. I was
kinda dreaming about tags, html, syntax and everything).

10.Be back in time for the fun run.
11. and so on and so forth, etc.......

I have to prepare my self for a longer list of escapades and work when I come back. You see it's just a month now and it will be my birthday and I am hoping to do more things so that I could accept that another year will be added to my number and my number is aging for a good reason with right purpose and with substance.

I'll try to visit and read your posts but I won't make any promises. I'll catch up with you as soon as I'm back to civilization but I scheduled one question post for you guys.

Till then, Ciao for now.

The Fun Run Addict

2011-04-04T12:22:00.003+08:00

Note: You can find the answer to the two possibilities at the end of this post.

There will be a fun run at the Seaside Boulevard of SM Mall of Asia on April 10, 2011. This is a benefit run for the worthy cause of tree planting and the construction of water distribution and sanitation for public schools in the Philippines. Runners have the option to run for 3K, 5K and 10K with a registration fee of 300, 500 and 700 pesos respectively. This is a project of GMA 7 to be headed by the environmental advocate Richard Gutierrez.

This news made my feet go itchy. I'm an avid fan of fun run not only for the healthy cause but for the worthy cause of helping others. I'm not alone with this craziness because my office mates are with me. There was one time we had a practice after shift but our tired and sleepless body couldn't endure that, so we have to opt for a new schedule and that is every night before work. The place where we work is very conducive for jogging and seeing the professional runners every night always gives us the motivation we need. Besides who could say no to this place?

I called this buildings twin towers...make your guess which one is our building

cars usually doesn't pass by here and that made it a good place for jogging

i thought these are cherry blossoms but they're not. flowers were falling with the wind

the park where bicycle fanatic do some tricks at night

The answers to the question of two possibilities:

Nowadays, when you see a man opening the car door for a woman there are two possiblities:

1. The car is new; and
2. The wife is new

I am hoping that married couples would have the long lasting sweetness they had since the day they said I dos' and exchange vows in the altar before God and mankind. May they always respect each other and not let temptations break the promise of loving each other for better or for worst.

Question: Sweet Moments

2011-04-02T05:05:00.002+08:00

They say that newly married couples can't stop holding hands because of love. But after some years of marriage the only time they touch each other's hand is when they use it for self-defense!

After some years, they say that when you see a man opening the car door for the woman, there are two possibilities.

The question: What are the two possibilities?

(Note: This is a story I read from the book "Just a Moment" written by Father Jerry Orbos.)

Don't Lend me Your Shoes

2011-03-31T23:55:00.001+08:00

Thank yo so much everyone for your kind comments with my previous posts. I just need a place to vent my emotions.

But hey have you ever felt any of the situations below?

1. that people around you aren't sincere with the words they're saying or With the emotions they want to convey?
2. That co-workers are hitting you behind your back, pointing you the bullet straight to your head?
3. That people are talking about you secretly?
4. That you are a subject of gossip or rumors?
5. That people around aren't true and sincere?

And because of those thoughts, you're afraid to trust anyone? If that's the case then you might have Pistanthrophobia - Fear of trusting someone.

Why do people live with Pistanthrophobia? People suffer with this kind of phobia if they've been hurt and betrayed by the people they trust so much be that a family, friend, co-workers, or a partner.

To some people this may be a bit over-reacting but have you ever tried putting yourself on the same situation? Like your loved ones betraying you and your trust? You can easily conclude or judge people with this kind of problem as paranoid but I beg to disagree.

"Been there and done that".... I know it's not easy to feel that way. However being subject to that kind of situation made me a quite sensitive person thinking that people have their own battles in life so who am I to judge them.

There's no need to lend me your shoes, I can feel yah, even if we're not wearing the same shoes.

source

Will you wait for that shoes to be yours to feel what they feel?

Question: Which Keyboard Shortcut?

2011-03-30T07:03:00.003+08:00

While I am gathering my thoughts for that phobia post that I am about to share, I would like to ask you one question.

Due to the nature of my work, I am doing most stuffs for my blog at night in the office during break times, (shhhhh). Some of my posts were scheduled while some were in draft waiting for the right time to shine.

Blogging in the office feels awkward. Especially when you feel that someone is watching, so I have to take safety precautions even though everyone here knows my blog.

The question: Which is the most useful keyboard shortcut if you're blogging in the office?

Life is Short, I need to let this out!

2011-03-29T11:31:00.001+08:00

I took a leave from work today. I am feeling a little better however I woke up with a sad news. The mother of my friend passed away. This incident brought me back to a thought I am trying to escape. I know death is inevitable and our stay on earth doesn't have its certainty.

I don't know if sharing this would be the proper thing to do. I don't want to earn neither sympathy nor pity. I just want to lighten the burden and I hope you bear with me I am this emotional today.

Lately I have been receiving a lot of sweet messages on Facebook, messages on my phone, a lot of phone calls and private messages. I am not ignoring them as a matter of fact I am concerned and happy that somehow these people who are sending this messages didn't stop remembering me. It only proves that the more I am staying away, the more they persevere to see and stay in touch with me.

Before me and my ex separated, he told me that I could still visit his family. He told me that his sisters will always be my sisters and we're still family no matter what because he said he loves me he's just not in love with me. The last few months of our relationship, I spent mostly with his family which drew me closer and closer to them each day while he was nowhere to be found ( don't ask me where, okay). That made us more of like a sibling and not couple anymore.

When we've gone our separate ways, there were family occasions, they invited me in and before I commit, I am giving my conditions, "I don't want to talk about the past anymore".

Things may have been running a little smooth but in every journey there are rough roads. There is one sole reason why I can't stay in touch with the family who accepted me and still loves me. The son is in a new relationship now of which the family is not in favor with. A relationship why ours no longer exist.

I often talk to them to accept it. Accept the relationship and more specifically the girl but no matter how much I would want to, I cannot waive their decision. I did that not to impress anyone, I just want everything to be alright and more so I don't want fingers pointing at me saying I am the reason why she wasn't accepted till now.

The family's reason. "We're not the one to choose who he will end up with. It's his choice and not ours. All what we wanted is to put everything in it's proper place be done in the right manner with no one being hurt. You see, it's more pleasing when you go out and enter with a new one with pure conscience and with no one being stepped in. We don't have any problem if it's not you, but we still wants the best for him". Period, I shut my mouth.

With that I made a decision. I will stay away from them if that would make them accept it. If not then I will no longer be a subject of malicious minds, degrading words and hearth breaking emails.

That decision I made is melting me like a candle with both ends burning. I saw one recent picture of Mama (that's what I call her). I noticed the big difference in her with the last time I saw her personally. She's so skinny and I am afraid to say she's getting old. At the span of the moment, I wanted to run and see her but there's nothing I could do. I don't want to hear the words I heard before for they are so traumatic. Yes indeed! Very very Traumatic.

I wanted to see her and make up for the time I denied and refuse her request to see me. Those traumatic words I heard made me stay away from the family especially to a mother I learned to love as my own.

Now I am more afraid of the fact that she's getting old and I might not have the chance to see her again.

100 Reasons why a son needs a Dad

2011-03-27T09:14:00.001+08:00

One post I read yesterday made me emotional because I find it rare for people to express how they feel when they've found out they're soon to be father. It touches my sleeping emotions from hair to toes down to my bone marrows. Akoni I salute you, I commend you and I admire you!

I bought this a long time ago. Aside from the quotations, there're pictures which illustrates the quotations on the best way possible. This is my simple tribute to fathers who had showed great love to their children.

I'll post 5 out of 100 reasons why A son needs a Dad:

1. To tell him he is proud of him

2. to show him unconditional love

3. so that he will have at least one hero he can depend on

4. to make the family whole

5. because without him he will have less in his life than he deserves. (Gregory E. Lang)

Good luck Akoni! You'll be a great father, that's for sure with all the words from you that I read yesterday. Just make sure you'll be there for him/her when he/she needs you the most. One thing more, every child needs their father and mother's affectionate touch. That helps them develop fully. More than financial support, every child needs his/her father's love.

and Happy Birthday Emmanuel Mateo!!! Where's the party? hahaha!

The Seven Wonders of the World

2011-03-26T00:28:00.000+08:00

I received this video from a friend way back 2008. Actually I haven't met him personally. He just happened to be a client of our company and his account has been assigned to me. I am not quite sure if he is a pastor but I know they're sending missionaries all over the world to spread the word of God. I dug this from an email he sent me over more than 3000 unread messages on my inbox and thought of sharing it to you.

7 wonders of the World from Sey on Vimeo.

I don't know who did this video so I cannot give proper credits, however I know that this is meant to be shared to all the people out there.

1. To See - Our eyes were given to us to see the beauty of the world and to see the beauty in others. Because not all that can be seen by our naked eyes are true. Let us use them to construct and not to criticize or destroy other people.

2. To Hear - Our ears are there so that we can be open to people who needs someone to listen to them and not to use them for gossips and rumors.

3. To Touch - To touch is something prerogative when you love cause this adds to the magical feeling.

4. To Taste - We should use our tongue to enjoy the wonderful taste of foods in the world. Remember to guard our tongue because our words can make or break a person for thoughtless words can cause wounds deeply as any sword

Words said no matter how sorry you are in the end cannot reciprocate the hurt we may cause to others. (I just added this one, as you can notice on the video, #4 was missing)

5. To Feel - Lucky are we to feel the different kinds of emotions. Be it fear, pain, anger or worries, feel them and let them make you a better person.

6. To Laugh - Laughter is the best medicine as they say. Enjoy it while we can still enjoy the sense of being happy.

7. To Love - Did you ever tried locking your heart because of the fear of being hurt again? Believe me when I say pushing love away is so hard to endure. That isn't healthy because it will eventually draw you away from people.

Let the question be "How much love do you give?" rather than "Are you in love?"

Respect begets Respect

2011-03-25T05:31:00.005+08:00

At this certain point in time, I still don't know how you we're able to read my words on your computer screen (thanks for reading). I had a notion that words are being transported from my computer wires to internet cables right through your monitor (and that's literal!! I'm such an idiot).

What will happen if the World Wide Web (www) would crush right now? That is what I am asking to a friend on a letter I wrote the other week. It didn't bother me because I can still meet her because we're friends and I know where she lives. Sorry, I didn't ask, I wished, (sorry again, don't kill me people). I just want to feel the old world when we communicate through snail mail. Simply amazing I guess, or maybe I was just saddened by the fact that I don't know where to collect stamps. Booo (me and not you)!

But on second thought, how about the online friendship that I was able to established to the people from different parts of the globe, people from all walks of life, old and young, poor and rich, average (i don't want to use the word ugly) and beautiful. Going back to the world wide web crushing, I am taking my wish back (palabra de honor - que barbaridad). I don't wanna loose connections to you people who had showed great respect to my thoughts and respected me for who I am (*wink*, *cry*, *smile*, *high five*).

source

My heart beats fast whenever you mentioned me in your post (that's highly appreciated). I am amazed how we, people with different views found our common denominator and meet halfway.

This blog made me reach the other end of the world. I was overwhelmed with wonderful people both foreign and locals, half Filipinos and others who accepted me without criticisms and most of all are not racist. For that I am thankful.

I respect you beyond imagination, whether you are blogging anonymously. I don't care if you're using your real name or not, sharing pictures or not. Whatever is the voice of your blog, when I followed, I see the good in your house (i mean your blog).

OH gosh this is way too long than I expected........when all I want you to know is that I RESPECT YOU ALL. thanks! bow!

Chasing Each Other

2011-03-23T04:47:00.000+08:00

More often than not, we're chasing each other. When I needed him the most he forsaken me. He always leave me alone when I am in dire desire to have him. When I come home in the morning, he is with me only to leave in no time to abandon me again.

Likewise, it also happens vice versa. When he wanted to have me, I am busy doing something and busy with my work. Sometimes during breaks, I sneak out to meet him only to leave him again.

When he wanted me, I am not free and when I needed him he is running away from me. That happens all the time

When will our time meet?

Will our departed ways cross again?

When will we fulfill each other's longing?

When will we give our time for each other?

Oh,

How I miss you so much!

I wanna be reunited

with my departed

Goodnight Sleep

source

Lucky are you who have the time to sleep at night. It's refreshing and far more different and way better than sleeping in the morning. Value it like the way you value your diamonds.

"Those little things we took for granted would mean so much to us in the future. We'll realize their importance only when they're gone and chances are we cannot embrace them back. Love them when we still have the chance and with this I hope you can read between the lines."

7 Facts: Getting to know each other

2011-03-16T03:36:00.003+08:00

Fate is really working its way because a sweet friend, ChinaDoll (thanks!) gave me this 7 Facts award and stylish blogger award. In lieu to that, I have to share Seven Unknown Facts about me. And in accepting this award, I have to:

1. Thank the person who gave you the award and link back to their blog.

2. Post seven random facts about yourself.
3. Pass on the award along to 15 other worthy bloggers.

Seven Facts about me that you should know:

1. I am allergic to chicken but fried and roast are to die for. The agreement is I should only eat chicken, once a week so the allergies won't come out or else I'll be scratching from head to toe.

2. I don't eat beans. Any kind of beans. Don't ask me why, I don't know either.

3. I collect postage stamps and paper money/currencies from different countries.

4. I am using two towels when taking a bath and that is a must. I don't know maybe because I have low tolerance with cold weather.

5. I'm a runner (before). I used to run for my school until high school and a long jump player too but eventually I stopped.

6. I dip French Fries on gravy and mayonnaise instead of ketchup especially at McDonalds. So yummy!

7. I swore to exercise what is considered to be the noblest profession on earth. Yes, you got it right, I am a teacher (handling business subjects and economics) by profession but decided to take another route for a change. You see there are great expectations and no room for mistakes. I need a room to breathe. Hello world, were humans too.

Instead of 15, I choose 7. Too lazy uhhh, nope! I want to know more about my new blogger friends:

1. Tina - (Florida) Girl with a New Life
2. Mayen - Clicks and Cuts
3. Mommy Raz - Welcome to my World
4. Haze - How Far is Heaven
5. Nash - My Blissful Journey
6. Dadedidodhong - Dadedidodhong
7. Al - Pasumangil

I tried my Best to Save it

2011-03-15T02:34:00.002+08:00

While browsing old posts from March and April last year, this one caught me laughing alone and immensely happy. I just want to share it with you.

Yes, I confess, I tried to save it but it's not meant for me. I can see it flying, slipping through my bare hands while trying to grasp it. I know it's hard, I admit the process is painful. It's like my whole body will bent and be distorted due to the physical pain my effort to save it brought to my body.

Sometimes, life is so unfair. You already have the best of it in your control but things are becoming so complicated until you reach the point that you have to let it go. If this one thing that you wanted to hold is already hurting you, what is the point of keeping it. My friend try to hold on too. She tried to take control as well, but same as me, its hurting her too so she decided to let it go like me. We can't even eat well because we're so affected by the loss of it.

decided

let

slip

away

and

with

the

wind.

Yes,

decided

let

the

table napkin

It's useless to take a grip of something which is not worth the pain and sufferings. Don't hold back when it's time to let go. Good things fall apart so good things can fall together.

Be Safe and Sound

2011-03-12T02:09:00.003+08:00

I'm such a lazy human being for spending my entire day sleeping. I feel awkward not turning the television this afternoon, I missed the news. The tsunami that hit Japan was devastating as well as traumatic. And seeing this warning on Google made me wanna fly home. Are we over? Who and what's next? This alter my plan of not posting today because I feel the urgency to wish you all well.

Another lives were taken which is a proof that life is too short to live foolishly.

If you are happy right now, then I am glad for you. Enjoy it to the utmost because not all people were given the chance to be happy and well.

If you are burdened, worried, in pain, and troubled, lift it high. Change your Sufferings to Offerings and simply look at the brighter side of life. You are luckier that other people.

If you were betrayed, it's time to walk forward. Don't let your past block your future. Bad memories are so hard to bear that you should not let yourself be taken back to the so called "descent to hell".

Let all goodbyes be GOOD-BYES. Sometimes it is necessary so that you can meet them again.

Be safe and sound everyone. Hope you had a great weekend.

The Two Sides of Our Stories

2011-03-11T09:30:00.024+08:00

Two of your friends had a great deal of misunderstanding. Friend number 1 is known to be clever and naughty while friend number 2 is conservative and silent. Whom will you take side with? Who will you believe, when each of them had their own version of the story? Would you believe the witness who sworn they saw what had happened? Or to make the situation lighter, let's say your friend had a fight with a stranger. I know most of us including me will eagerly defend our comrade without any questions. Would you believe your friend? I bet that's a YES!

source

What do you see?
an old woman?
or
an elegant lady?

Like this optical illusion, every event/situation were foretold with different version. We as human beings were bound to take sides as to what we knew was right and who we taught is holy or good. But did it ever came to you that somehow when we make judgement we sometimes mistakenly go on the wrong position because we only believe on what our bare eyes could see plus our hearts dictates that we should side here or there out of love.

I just realized no matter how long you knew someone, everyone is capable of telling fallacies. Do you know when court verdicts were served properly or justice was denied to the innocent? Would friends defy friends? NO. Will family sacrifice their clans' moral? of Course Not! That is what I'm taking about.

Like everyone else, I am also prone to making false judgment. What I am trying to point is let us not indulge with our self-belief and drown ourselves to impurities when there is way to make things right.

What is wrong is wrong and what is right is right. No excuses! Evaluate the 2 sides of the story and never judge outright. Cause people we are, were bound to mistakes and only HIM up there knows what truly happened.

Get back here, When Summer is Gone!

2011-03-09T09:30:00.002+08:00

November 2011, when we sat around a bonfire and this couple shared with us their love story. Maybe for them, they only wanted to express but their audience were left inspired and somehow believed that true love and fairy tales really exist.

photo by Lolo Photographer

According to them it was a love story which blossoms out of then so famous phone pal. I was so amazed with the love story that it never registered to me how did they got each others' phone numbers. All I can remember was, it was a love made in seventh heaven. A love between a nerd and an activist which like any other love affairs suffered storms and trials. For some reasons in between their story they were separated but as they say true love finds its way where it truly belongs.

Now this couple are living a happy life with their 2 children and lately celebrated their 10th year anniversary. "The big man" as I call him showed to us the letter his wife gave to him. Me, as they know will not let any moment pass, I took my cellphone and took a picture of the letter and did a simple slideshow to commemorate their love fore each other.

"Picnik Show"

Create a free slideshow with Picnik!

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Big Man:

I would like to share with you an anecdote I read from a book authored by Fr. Jerry Orbos. When Summer is Gone. This I doubt would happen but I know nothing is impossible and if it was meant to be it will happen beyond circumstances, but in the end When summer is gone, the key is "Commitment" which is the foundation of all true loving. Long after the romance has died, long after the idealism and feelings have faded, long after summer is gone, love survives because of commitment. When you grow old and no longer remember each others' name, just remember the word "HONEY". It will save you from the pitfalls of forgetfulness and will inspire a lot of people. Happy Anniversary!!!

I have 2 Fathers, and one celebrated his birthday.

2011-03-08T09:34:00.003+08:00

Hi Daddy, this post is late for your special day, sorry I was ~~lazy~~ busy with my work which is getting a bit messy that's why I have to focus.

I am not referring to my father who is up there in heaven but my brother. He is the eldest and the only boy in a family with four siblings while I am the youngest. As they say, the eldest heart is closest to the youngest heart. I could say, I am his favorite, or let us assume their favorite. I was born a menopause baby, needless to say, they were all grown up when I arrived. That is a very very satisfying coincidence that made me the apple of the eye of my whole family including aunties, uncles and cousins. I grew up with their eyes focused on me like an eagle. It seems like all my actions are pleasant to their eyes, but I didn't grew up as a brat. My mother is there to balance it all. What is wrong is wrong and there is a corresponding punishment (just saying).

With the age gap between us, anyone can conclude that he is my father. At an early age, his friends and other people, told me he is father and I grew up calling him "Daddy". Who am I to say no? Children are gullible, right? When he is going to work, he needs to hide so I won't come chase him. He cannot wear his uniform in our house, cause I will scream the loudest cry.

aren't we such a cutie?

In all serious thoughts, thank you for everything. All my life it seems like I am grwoing up with 2 fathers (of course, that's our father and you). Like anyone else, you've been so proud with all my achievements and with the 4 of us, I could say we are the childish one.

I miss pouring cold water unto you when you're taking a bath. The times when I chase you with a broomstick outside the house. The moment you came home drunk before, I told everyone to pretend we're sleeping so no one will open the door for you but you caught me giggling and in return, you sprayed to me your most nose wrenching perfume. There were nights when I come home from college vacation we sneak out and buy hamburgers and eat them on the terrace. And on my birthdays, you always asks me "Money or Party" and what do you expect? Of course I go for money.

With my sincerest gratitude for everything, Happy birthday Daddy.

My Brain is a Mess

2011-03-05T03:34:00.001+08:00

This week I was in monumental mess. My brain is littered with so many things which are not helpful and ones that I should forget and not given any pint of attention. Like for example:

The hard drive that was destroyed by a virus months ago. It contains all my old and new pictures. I am not storing data on the memory of my camera and cellphone because they tend to perform slowly when huge files are saved, so after taking pictures, I immediately transfer them, but to my dismay, those old treasures are gone forever. Damn virus- thanks to you, all my pictures taken last year were all gone. It's like goodbye 2010. Booo!!!

Source

Next. Mistakes. No room for mistakes. It's work and everything should be near to perfection if not perfect. At least that's my thought. But this week is a dilemma for me. What's the problem? I can't focus. I was kinda shy and helpless for all the mistakes I committed.

Sleep. Apparently, Mr. Sleep is not my bestfriend. He seems to hate me. We're always playing hide and seek.

The shampoo which I think is not doing any good to my hair and the insane weather that is changing abnormally from time to time. My aching hips.

And the naughty excuses my officemate is thinking when having absences:

1. Can I take a leave today? I have a heartache problem.

2. I'll be absent today because I had a fight with my boyfriend/girlfriend

3. I'll not be in the office today. I'll do some soul searching.

4. Don't expect me in the office today. I will find time for myself.

She made sense right?

Beauty or Character?

2011-03-03T06:26:00.001+08:00

I wanted to write. There are so many ideas floating around my head but I cannot organize them to a decent post. My brain cannot process the thoughts though pretty good ideas are flowing. My brain is so dis-organized so to say.

Beauty or Character? Since I was a child, I was taught not to measure a person's worth and importance by mere physical appearance. No matter how a person looks, he/she is created uniquely and it is not their fault to have bear an appearance like that. It is made with purpose and for a rare mission like anyone else.

That's why I am not a fan of those who are blessed with beautiful face but do not embody a beautiful character. If they will use that great beauty they are gifted with to ridicule others then by no means I can say they are the ugliest person on the earth's atmosphere. Nonetheless, criticizing people leads to destroying their inner self and self-confidence.

One man said, if you're looking for a one night stand go for beauty but if you're looking for a wife, choose character for beauty fades through time and true beauty lies on good character. For when time comes, each an everyone will be judged not based on physical appearance but rather on a fruitful life imbued with beautiful character.

Wouldn't it be nice to have both? If you have beauty, use it wisely.

The question is now yours to answer, Beauty or Character?

My Little Angel

2011-02-28T22:13:00.008+08:00

Last year marks a special event not only in my life but also to that of my family. A little angel was entrusted for us to keep which bound to give an everlasting joy. One who gives joy to an aching heart and a reason worthy enough of all the sacrifices. I am hoping that someday this little bundle of joy will appreciate everything that was and will be given and may it all be enough to cover the missing part. An extra love from one person can cover it all.

I hope you’ll get to read this someday, so you’ll know you’re not taken for granted but loved. Leaving home is so difficult, for it gives me and everyone the imagination that you are waving to me while crying. It’s hard because it’s breaking my heart and soul. But going back is an excitement. It made me want to fly all the way home and cuddle you.

Dear little one, someday you will ask questions which right now we’re preparing to answer. It is in my greatest belief that you will understand because you will grow as a loving person surrounded by so much love and affection. Things will not be normal, I know. Things will be difficult, that’s for sure. But no matter what, you still have us, especially me. You are the most perfect, most awesome and the most special person in this world, for the joy you bring is countless, endless and priceless
I have your letter here. Open it someday! I Love you!

Money Matters but it doesn't Matter

2011-02-26T01:15:00.000+08:00

If the issue is money, I don't want to talk about it. I haven't save enough money from the last few months.. I feel bad when I can't feed the bank account. I would like to live my life on the policy of Giving, Saving and Living on the rest. I heard this from a religious organization in the television and I know it made sense. For some reason, I can give............... and live on the rest............... but not save!!!

As a human being, sometimes I found myself so envious of those girls driving their own car. Those rich people having their mansions built on the most famous and well know subdivisions in the land even though my real dream is just a simple home. When can I go non stop shopping and travelling? I know the answer lies from nowhere. I know shouldn't think about these things because in doing so will bring me to nowhere and most apparently to the land of destruction.

Rather than having self-pity, I would rather count the blessings. Instead of what is gone, count what is left. Yes, I haven't save enough but I am glad that all those money intended to feed the bank account were spent entirely for my health and in providing the needs of my love ones :P.

Remember the day I told you that what I can taste is only the extremes? I had an appointment with the doctor last weekend and he told me that if we cannot fix this problem it will destroy my taste buds and sense of smell and they might not go back to normal anymore. I am terrified with the news! What will happen to me if I cannot distinguished even the smell of an edible and spoiled milk.

I know I have to deal with it, no matter what. I kept on praying that everything will fall into place. I have another appointment this weekend to see if I need further examinations and laboratory test. Let's see what will happen but I am staying positive. The doctor gave me thumblike medicine which are so difficult to swallow and not to mention are very expensive. And if funding this medications means having another job, I would gladly take it by all means especially now that expenses are becoming bigger and bigger. I have high hopes that everything will be back to normal in no time. Please pray for me and have a great weekend everyone.

Where is Our World Going?

2011-02-23T05:06:00.002+08:00

This Friday, the Filipino people will once again commemorate the freedom of the Philippines against the 20 years of authoritarian government. 25 years had already passed after EDSA Revolution but our ancestors can still recall how the Filipino people joined hand and united in their advocacy of regaining the democracy of our country.

But in time for our celebration, one country is suffering against the hand of a brutal leadership. A leader which should guide the nation is currently oppressing its own people. And as I am writing this post, there were breaking news that 300 people were already killed and that includes children.

Moreover, the fight isn't fair! How can Libyans fight for their freedom if what's gazing down them are army/air force which were also reported to have attacked the protesters.

photo source

The citizens of Libya aren't alone in their fight. People from all over the world who are much in love with democracy and freedom are praying for this nations' liberation against long years of imbalance. May Libya gain it's freedom in time with our celebration.

Photo osurce