The Road to Sagada

Last year marked the beginning of new friendship through common friend. We've only shared our thoughts and emotions via Facebook, while we're oceans and miles away from each other. There are differences but comes also the common grounds: our love for pictures, scenic beauties and the desire to travel. So we came up with the perfect plan to pursue our desire and started it all by planning the trip to Sagada. It took us almost one year of planning, inquiring and searching to make it all happen.

Since me and my friend were the ones in the Philippines then, we took the responsibility of putting it all together, from transportation to accommodation; from the tour guide to itinerary.

Matter of fact, we were used to just paying our share of expenses and our other buddies will do all the hardwork. So this travel to Sagada is a memorable one for us, because it's our first time to do it all on our own while the rest were in Boracay.

And the long wait was over. It was a mix emotions for us considering some of my friends dreamed of stepping into the land of Sagada way back high school days. And the dream was fulfilled last week in time for thanksgiving. When the other side of the world was celebrating for their bounties, we're in Sagada, celebrating and strengthening our  lasting friendships and forming new ones.

Detailed story of our trip coming up. Just needed a few days to think how to sum it up. Cheers!

The Time Keeper

This is  a story about the meaning of time

I first saw the cover of this book while updating my list on Shelfari. Released last September 04, 2012, it is now one of New York Times Bestseller in Fiction. I barely browse for new books cause I always purchase  mine at Booksale. Anything that caught my attention and has a good blurb will do, no matter what the release date it. But this book really had me at first glimpse of the cover. I fell in love with the pocket watches and not to mention that this was brought to us by Mitch Albom, the one and only author of Tuesdays with Morrie. 

Although I love to read, I don't do book reviews. I tend to spoil the fun for those who haven't read it yet (spoliler yeah) due to excitement. And for the record I won't do it still. I just want to leave you with remarkable thoughts I found so compelling to share and who knows might lead you to browse for the book at goodreads  and understand the real essence of time. 

• "It is never too late or too soon. It is when it is supposed to be" - Old Man
• "Man alone measures time. Man alone chimes the hour. And, because of this, man alone suffers the paralyzing fear that other creature endures. A fear of time running out". - Old Man
• "We all yearn for what we lost. But sometimes, we forget what we have". Dor
• "With endless time, nothing is special. With no loss or sacrifice, we can't appreciate what we have". - Dor
• "There is a reason God limits our days. To make each one precious". -Old Man
• "When you are measuring life, you are not living it". - Dor

When all you can do is dream

Whenever I find myself in the middle of a traffic or on sleepless days, I do dream about wonderful stuffs instead of counting sheep on my head. And when I say wonderful stuffs, that includes endless things including the plan of my dream house and everything in it.

What a cozy place to read isn't it? Opps, I mean to live. But heck, seems like every part was meant to jive well with my reading hobby. And speaking of reading, just in case you're concerned or you care about my hobby marathon sort of list, you can click here.

photo credit by number 

1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10 - 11

Life is just a cup of cake

I saw this photo while browsing Pinterest. Of course there is where people go when they would like to see mouth watering diy's, outfit style, home decor and furnishing and anything in between. 

photo source

How true that life is just a cup of cake I asked myself and suddenly I had a trip down memory lane. Maybe it was triggered by the fact that I saw someone last week ( a close family friend) whom we've lost in touch with since I moved to my new place. Like the old story, I was so eager to get out of the place then, hence, I never had the chance to drop by and bid my proper bye for now see you soon thing.

Okay, so I saw the couple when I was running errands. We did a little hi and hello and what's your number cause I am running late for a meeting. I sent them a message as soon as I boarded the public vehicle (I doesn't do it usually - the texting on PUV). I thought what made them lose weight was the old age factor, but I learned that their only child was battling cancer for three years now. That is exactly the number of years (almost) since I moved.

I really don't know what to feel, but if there's one thing I am thankful is that they are keeping their high hopes and strong faith. Really, that couple  earned my respect then and I awe them more now. 

Honestly, I felt shame. Comparing what they're going through, mine was just a piece of cake, but I almost let my world go tumbling down. 

Please include them in your prayers, that God's plan for their lives would be administered perfectly no matter how hard it maybe.

Caleruega

Had you ever been in a place that made you gasp, like the only word you managed to say was wow and after that you can't get enough of the place and you wanted to stay there forever?

That's exactly what happened to me during our trip to Caleruega in Nasugbu Batangas. Just a few laughter and chit chat away from Tagaytay. This trip was more of like a tradition between us friends to go to a place where we've never been each year to celebrate our birthday, but more than that, I am also in a journey. A journey to visit 7 churches I'd never been and so far this is my fourth. I'll blog about the others soon, but for now, let me show and share the experience on this majestic prayer and renewal place.

Close to nature, closer to God is indeed true. The moment you set your foot on it's boundaries, your burden seems to if not vanished will lighten. A perfect place for prayer and be close to God.

There's a Sunday mass at 11:00 a.m, so be sure to be there early. So serene and peaceful on the outside and so humble in the inside.

Transfiguration chapel

Lush green tress which made the place awesome and the air so pure. Gazing above would feel like you're somewhere in Forks. 

And the stairs and pathways below were breathtaking. If you knew me well you know why, but if not, be aware that I love bricks. Seriously, I can sit there.

And, do you see that white portion, in the midst of the green vegetation? Guess what is it? No clue? Okay, scroll down and you'll see. Be patient, let's hike up and down to reach that spot.

To get to that special place, you have to walk down the road, pass their cafeteria and down the steel bridge to the Koi pond.

Their Kois were so big and so healthy. Stress free fish. I'm a little envious.

After the Koin pond, you have to pass through this hanging bridge. It's a bit long, but it's not that shaky and you'll enjoy it, I swear. Even for those who have acrophobia. Not to add that it's so romantic.

And here it is. An open air chapel where you can enjoy the other side of Caleruega, where the grass is more greener, the slope is higher, there's no stairs but just a trail, the air is a wind and the journey is worth the destination.

I told one of my friends that if I'd be gone missing, she knew where to find me but instead she said that she will plan my wedding and  that will be in this place. Tsk, tsk. And speaking of wedding, (information below was copied from the leaflet  they provided us. There's an entrance fee of Php 30.00)  the place is open to activities like retreats, recollections, prayer &renewal workshops, study research, youth camps, marriage and family encounter celebrations, skills training, leadership seminars, arts, music, and liturgy workshops and environment and agricultural-related activities.

They have various facilities available for each activity. For reservation guidelines and questions, you can email them at caleruega_philippines@yahoo.com or visit their Facebook page a for more information.

Notes:

• You have to ride a tricycle to get to the place from the entrance at Evercrest (if you're commuting). Don't forget to get the number of the trike driver so you can send him a message to fetch you up, because transportation out isn't available from the inside.
• They have a small cafeteria and there is not much food variation. If you're planning to stay longer, you can bring your lunch and eat there. A nice place for picnic. 

She broke her heart

"Everytime your heart was broken,

a doorway cracks open to a world full of new beginnings,

new opportunities"

-Patti Roberts

That's one of the thoughts I hold on to, when mine (heart) was badly broken. Brought not by courage or rational thinking but rather driven by the necessity to move on with life. 

But that's not the case for everyone. When the very organ that sustains life is put to test, the bearer can take various actions: either mend it or let it rot cell by cell. And when you chose to mend it, different actions can be taken. You can apply what was said above and explore new horizons or even distract yourself with a new love prospect. It works in some ways and it worked for me once but not always. It's a case to case basis.

When a friend of mine had her heart broken, she resorted to diverting her attention to a new love prospect. Not bad, I know. The only thing she did wrong was rushing things, like plucking a young mango fruit from the tree out of excitement without thinking that the fruit will rot in a short span of time. No matter how we tried to persuade her to take things slow and give her heart an ample time to heal, she did it anyway. Needless to say, everything didn't quite went well so this time, I thought she broke her heart. The hardest part now is to repair the heart which is dealing with two heartbreaks. 

Long story short, what will you expect from a relationship when both parties hadn't had the chance to know each other and accept each other's differences. It's like hunting for a unicorn in the deep blue see.

I don't want to go into details but I shared the story anyway so others could benefit from it. While such things worked for others it may not work for you so better be careful with your decisions. And it's better to mend your broken heart naturally, let time heal all wounds and believe me when I say, you will be proud of yourself in the end. It's like reaching the heights of Mt. Everest. 

And remember, love is like a mango fruit. You have to wait for the right time, so you can enjoy the sweetness it has to offer.

The Story of Stuff

The Story of Stuff. 
The video is quite long but definitely worth your time. 
Simple illustrations full of substance.
An eye opener and an act of awareness.
Go watch it. You won't regret it.

The Story of Stuff from Long Island Pulse on Vimeo.

Confession of a once in hiatus blogger

I have to make a confession. Aside from the fact that I am really busy, I lost the desire to blog about just anything. I thought I needed time to think so I stayed away for a while, maybe in that way I can sort things out. My busy work schedule, what is happening out there which made my world go round and not to mention why I lost interest with something I so love doing. But even on those quiet times when I stayed away from the blinking cursor, I had to admit that I really missed this thing called blogging and the people I've come to know called friends.

Where did the old time went? It dawned on me that one of the factors why I had a temporary distaste to share anything was because I am missing old folks who were also away right now: blog friends who are in hiatus and those who decided to quit for good alike (if in any case you're reading this, which I know you do, just want to let you know that I'm missing you).

Reality knocked me down. It's not blogging that I want to stay away with, it's the prying eyes. I know this fact ever since and it's a shame I let it take the best of me. Everytime I try to write something, they ended up on my drafts and they soon piled up. One proof that I want to share it but afraid to do so.  

...............Until..................

One day, I realized that we're blogging for different purposes. Some wanted to share their thoughts while it's an outlet for others. One blogger once told me that I should always remember that I am also blogging for myself. When several people take interest of your writing, somehow you would feel happy but itchy and watchful as well. You would consider their feelings and thoughts, fearing that you would hurt someone unintentionally along the way or would cross the line somehow. But blogging is about respect too. Respect for other people's feelings and opinions. Bloggers have different genes and creative abilities and so as their way of sharing. With that I rest my case especially when I read the words below:

Each of us has a fire in our hearts burning for something.

It's our responsibility in life to find it and keep it lit.

This is your life and it's a short one.

Don't let others extinguish your flame.

Photo borrowed from Talentedo

A blog which is home to gorgeous photos 

and few words full of substance.

For the Bucket Listers

This is a news for all the people out there who loves to do bucket list,

for all the people who are good in crossing out items in their list

and, for all the people who are not so good with bucket list

LIKE ME.

I discovered Day Zero Project from one of the blogs I am following last year and

started doing my own list early this year.

Personally, I love attaining set goals but when it comes to bucket list,

I always suck BIG time.

That is why I love Day Zero Project.

There you can create your own list and they will gauge your performance.

It's very easy. And the amazing thing is that 

you can complete 101 list in 1001 days.

No pressure at all, you can adjust your time and wait for the right moment

while crossing out the rest on the list which are easier than the others.

If you are interested, grasp the insight here. The idea was better explained there.

And since most of you folks are good with bucket list,

and you might already ran out of ideas before you turned 30,

no problem, there are wonderful and crazy ideas over there.

Like:

40 things you want to build

18 things you want to listen to

20 things to watch

and so on. Believe me, new ideas are sprouting everyday.

If you are interested, go over there and start your list. It's not late yet,

remember, you'll have 1001 days and the timer will start once you started your list.

I had my list there, but was set to private cause some were too personal, involving other people

whose identities I want to keep private in respect of their privacy.

But I have a tab up there if you're interested.

The page is yet to be updated.

Cheerdance and Vacation

Okay, so I woke up today and felt my writing genes kicking. My mind was and guess is still pre-occupied by tons of information and things which are somehow I still cannot process (just for the time being). And while some of my camping buddies were savoring the pristine white sand beach of Boracay, I was left doomed in the office. Yes, sometimes life is unfair. But I'm not sulking cause comes November and it would be my time - hello SAGADA. It's so far yet so near. I can't contain the excitement and I don't want to. The last time I did it was March when we were heading to Puerto Galera and I ended up sick, spending time in bed while they're having fun out. Booo, that one is unfair.

More detailed story about that will follow. Today, I just want to share the pictures I found sitting in my drafts for like eternity. These were taken from date I can no longer remember but early this year. Competitions like this never fail to make me shout my lungs out. These are my kind of thing to watch and with that being said, you can already guess what I'm eyeing on the 75th season of the UAAP.

And pardon me if there was a man in red in majority of the pictures. We arrived kinda late and there was no space left for us except beneath the stairs. Go figure out what we did to get the pictures.

Pictures below were taken during the National Cheerleading Championship 2012

(elimination)

Held at Small Mall of Asia

The Directress

Directress. That is what we call the owner of the previous school where I taught. I am writing about her today since I had a dream about her last time. when I woke up I was all sweaty and tired. Maybe for a fact that I kept on dreaming about old memories and people who had been a part of my life and suddenly lost contact with.

Maybe I am missing the person. Knowing how kind she is, not only as a person but as an employer as well made me miss her more. I lost contact with her and our last conversation was when the day I bid goodbye. I never saw her since then. 

She's not only kind and generous to me and to everyone but she also make it a point that we know how valuable we are as a person and in the lives of our students. With her, I never felt that I am not worthy of praise and of what I've accomplished. 

She never let a good job pass without acknowledgment because she knew teachers and other staffs are putting their dedication and heart on the job well done. She's strict with classroom activities and all the matters that concerns the children. She will reprimand you for your mistakes but in a professional way that you will never lost your soul after talking to her.

Maybe, I should pay her a visit and let her know that she's been my role model for setting the standard of a good and ideal employer.

The Bamboo Organ

It's dusty in here right? 
I know the word "busy is a lame excuse but it's true.
What I am busy about I cannot tell right now.
Good things always wait for the right time,
like a wine aged and perfected by time.


Since I cannot stay long, 
let me share a video I took during my visit to our 
 famous Las Piñas Bamboo Organ (cultural heritage).
Watch the video and it will answer your question
whether a bamboo organ can play a beautiful tune.



To read about its story and history, read this and this.

and another good news, I was invited to write for Oh Dear Giggles. To read more about the project you can read the story about the creation of the site here. See yah there fellas!

The Tale of the Coffee Jelly

I was supposed to keep this for myself. This was the story why I always smile every time I see coffee jelly from Starbucks. And by the time I'm writing this, I'm trying my best not to smile, it was a success nonetheless because the smile I was containing burst into laughter.

Once upon a time (last year), I went to a rainy morning travel to the center of the country to meet two lovely friends. It was indeed one of the happiest day of my life (though I was a bit stressed then), thanks to them for cheering me up. We had a long talk over lunch and yes, we never finished everything that we ordered. One of my bestest friend have to leave soon to meet another friend. Me and the other were left and so we decided to head to Starbucks for a coffee and further chattering ( I guess coffee is just an excuse, cause our real purpose is to chat). 

It took us a while in walking to find the place ( excuse us, we're not familiar with the shop's location - we've met halfway folks).  To cut the story short, we headed to the counter and ordered our drinks. Chocolate Chip Cream (grande) for me and she opted for the Christmas offerings. While on the counter she asked if they can swap her order for a Coffee Jelly for the same higher price with an additional penny as I can recall and that would make the drink venti. Everything was settled, we waited and had our drinks. Off we go to the seats.

We had a wonderful day full of chat and a baby (from the other table) playing beside us in between. When she's about to finish her drink with only jellies left, she realized that her drink wasn't venti but just grande. We burst into laughter!!! What else can we do? She's done with it. LOL. 

I think what made us forget to check the size is our eagerness to catch up with each other in person. And since then, coffee jelly never fails to  put a smile on my face. I always think of her whenever I let  myself indulge a tall, grande or venti.

Why I wrote this? Because it's a bliss to have immortal awesome memories shared with friends. Let's meet halfway. Shall we?

Obsession and my future abode

Mr. sleep is kinda aloof lately. He's out there somewhere visiting others while he nearly forsaken me. In between those hours of sleeplessness I chose to be proactive instead of staring at the ceiling counting lizards both passers by and bystanders.

I was trying to awaken (if there was) the sleeping creative cells in my body so I could make the most of my time. Cause, you know, doing nothing at all is harder that having your hands full. But when i'm out for any creative ideas, I fish for new things to do and that lead me to revisiting my books. I noticed that my bookshelf is already full. Not that I have tons of books but because it's way too small. I am used to oppose having lots of things in my possession here because I am only renting a small apartment all for my own. I want a bigger and brighter space so to speak. But who wouldn't give in to bookshelf specially if you're fond of paperbacks? 

I am spending a lot of time with my books. Treating them with new covers give me satisfaction and endless bliss. BTW, I am using shower glass sticker for covers.  To read the full article about this awesome new bestfriend for book lovers, visit Fun and Fabulous . Another treat I want my book to indulge is a cozy place to rest. That's why I am on search for a bigger bookshelf that will house them all and the rest of the new members of the family that were about to come (yes kinda obsessed with the bookstore again specially booksale). 

If I was in our home and if our home is big enough, I will also make room for this one obsession. A hidden door bookshelf. It's my dream. I want it built in my room and the hidden door behind the bookshelf will lead to a sanctuary with walls and stairs made of bookshelf alike. Even the chairs and tables will housed books too.

Way too ambitious I know but as Otep said: Libre Lang Mangarap 

(it's free to dream)

source

That is suppose to be a secret but now I blurt it out to the world. I guess the only option left for me then is to keep the location of my future home a secret, don't yah think?

"Focus on the journey

...not the destination.

Joy is found not in finishing an activity but in doing it"

-Greg Anderson

And that is a reminder to myself. I was determined to reach my goals no matter what it takes. My eyes were gazed with the future and what lies ahead. That is me, always two steps ahead. I don't want to smash up things and put everything in jeopardy. I want everything in place under my control.

I thought it would be as easy as 1, 2, 3, when it comes to implementing my plans. My great effort to make things happen the way I planned it gave me my fair share of stress to dealt with.  Needless to say, few of the things on my list were put to action while majority were sent to the waiting list. I have to reconsider everything especially now that my priorities in life are changing. I was caught off guard because of my intent to pursue the things I thought would be good and overlooked the ones which are really necessary. 

Enough that I decided it was enough. It's not that something went out of place or something turned out to be a thing I can't handle anymore. I just realized that I was missing what was given to me at the moment because of my far distant gaze. Now I don't care how long it might take me to accomplish everything. Life is short I know but if fulfilling the desire would hinder me in enjoying my life, all the effort will gone to waste. Might as well enjoy each day without too much pressure. Let life be delicious, healthy - always.

Sometimes, best things aren't planned

Another perk of having a birthday is the leniency towards vacation leave. 

Not that we're military strict but we have special rules applied. 

But since it was a special day they let me moved it at a later date. 

Two days vacation leave before weekend means awesome rest. 

People  asked me where's my destination. 

there's no itinerary, I just want to REFLECT (over something) and REST, that's all.

Yes, there's no need for a grand vacation. 

Told yah, anything that is too much is fatal so I just used the VL to experience how it feels to sleep at night during weekdays. But to add a bit spice to the lazy days, I had some time out too. 

And yes, I went home. The travel time is  tad exhausting but still worth it.

I did a lot of walking which is my kind of thing

interact with mother nature at its finest,

and....this is not a rest house, it's a church

Surprise??? me too!

another venture for a self proclaimed history buff

the famous bamboo organ 

and the good news, someone played it for me

The last two pictures were taken from two different places, to be specific - churches (Mary Immaculate Parish - Nature Church and St. Joseph Parish) . I'd never been to any of them before that's why I grabbed the opportunity offered on my table before heading home. It's not  like there's no other chances but opportunity sometimes knocks only once. And I was serious when I said REFLECT....need I say more?

Write it on your heart...

I did had a fabulous birthday. I thought this would be another year full of jitters but I was wrong. I was at work when 12:00 am strikes. The lights went off and everyone sang the never ending birthday song with one of my friends holding the cupcakes with candles burning and bursting like fireworks. They're super awesome like that.

The surprise didn't end there. One of my friends asked if I was up for an adventure. I was of course very delighted. She said it's a surprise and told me it might take a long drive before we reach the place and we may head home at night. Sad to say we didn't pushed through with that because my  family went here for my birthday. I only have the morning to spare because I want to head to my apartment asap so I could spend time with them because they will also leave soon.

We canceled the said adventure and they asked me to accompany them to run some errands instead. We walked round and round then they told me they're hungry. I persuaded them to eat at McDonald's but they declined the offer. They insist that we wait for the commercial complex to open because they needed to buy some things. So what else can I do but oblige to their wishes. 

To cut the long story short, never to mention they let me wait under a tree with the blazing heat of the sun, Red Ribbon opened and it turned out it was another surprise lunch for my birthday. They had cookies and cream with oreo cake for me with candles (again). It was a glorious day with chit chat among close friends. They really made my day special. 

We went home afterwards and there's my family, waiting for me. We had a simple celebration, spend the weekend with me. When they left, I was full of good spirit that I managed to turn my apartment up and down and cleaned every space. I found out I have pieces of the kraft posters I haven't put to place yet, so that was indeed a perfect day to do so. Now my wall is decorated with lovely pieces from Papemelroti, my favorite shop in the mall full of crafts, recycled papers and all things with antique look and awesome. 

That's all for now, I will leave you with the poem inscribed at one of the kraft posters by Ralphy Waldo Emerson. A prefect  piece to brighten up each day. 

Write it on your heart

that every day is the best day in the year.

He is rich who owns the day,

and no one owns the day who allows it to be invaded with fret and anxiety.

Finish every day and be done with it.

You have done what you could.

Some blunders and absurdities, no doubt, crept in.

Forget them as soon as you can, 
tomorrow is a new day; begin it well and serenely,

with too high a spirit to be cumbered with your old nonsense.

This new day is too dear, with its hopes and invitations,

to waste a moment on the yesterdays...

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

And thank you very much for all the greetings. It was very much appreciated. 

Picture paints a thousand words

Yes, it's been like ages and yes you're right I'm not 100% busy, just a quarter and the rest of the pie is laziness.

As the song goes, "picture paints a thousand words". A good excuse to post pictures when your blogging self is out for words and a brilliant idea to give my gallery a space to breathe. The camera of my phone will rust in no time, blame it to the Lomo application, it's addicting.

1. McDonald's wallpaper. Summer and gorgeous

2. Books. Read more books

 3. Crafty? Yes, little souvenirs of travels

4. Recycling used paper bags

5. Kopiko Kopiccino. A must try. Next, Great taste white

6. Time for reflection

7. Palm Sunday

8. Candles and YES, they have meanings.

And if you're missing me, I'm always here

I Will If You Will

The World will go dark again at 8:30 PM on March 31 in observance of the Earth Hour. A moment to switch off the light for 60 minutes to save energy and to raise awareness of environmental issues.

The Philippines started participating since 2007. And as this article had pointed out, our observance can go "beyond the hour" if we are really committed in saving our environment so the future generations will savor themselves with the bounty of nature.

To encourage everyone to go beyond the hour, World Wildlife Fund for Nature  (WWF-Philippines) came with the brilliant idea of "I Will If You Will". A dare/challenge game to inspire friends, family and colleagues to pledge in caring for our environment beyond the hour. 

You can participate through twitter by tagging the friends you're challenging with a simple statement like the one below:

I will use the stairs instead of the elevator if you will pledge to support the Earth Hour @Maderuchan. At the end of your dare, write “Let’s support #EarthHour” the hashtag #IWIYW, and mention @WWF_Philippines. 

January 18, 2011 when our city implemented the city ordinance which required everyone to bring their own bag when shopping. Plastic bags were banned as a step for waste reduction, alienate non-biodegradable products and to raise awareness of the depleting aura of natural resources. A year after the implementation, bringing shopping bags seemed normal to everyone and if you forgot yours you will use a paper bag instead provided by the grocery stores and boutiques where you buy your goodies and clothes.

And it didn't stopped there for me. Brown paper bag have its unique character which fascinates me even more. I love its color and scent and since I'm a sucker for Papemelroti (gifts  and other stuffs made of recycled paper) I came up with the idea of using the paper bags for different purpose whichever deemed appropriate (gift wrapper, notebook, and envelope).

The stuff below is my "Walk and Save Envelope" where I put the money I saved from walking instead of taking the tricycle. The idea benefited me twice cause I was able to save an ample amount everyday and I'll be fit at the same time. And observing the Earth Hour made me realized that there's an additional benefit which is dedicated for the environment  and that is recycling.

made from used paper bags

Endless ideas about the Earth Hour increases my adrenaline and this whole idea is making me excited. #TheBlissOfSimpleThings isnt it?

Al's Eleven Questions

Today is March 12, 2012. It's just an ordinary day and yet would not be ordinary as I am patiently waiting for a promise to be fulfilled. Let's see, I still have few hours left. This day will render the verdict if promises were truly made to be broken. *Sigh

And speaking of promises, I made a promise to blogger friends that I will answer the questions they tagged me. It was long overdue, the fever has ceased but better late than never.I was tag four times and since I am seriously taking the questions at heart, I will post the answers separately.

Today, I will answer Al's questions, but before that I have to divulge 11 random things about myself. So here we go:

11 Random Things:

1.  I am more to salty food than sweets.

2.  I'm a history buff.

3.  I'm allergic to laundry soap, powder and detergent.

4.  I cannot sleep without a blanket no matter what the weather is. It's a requirement so now you know what to prepare just in case you would invite me for sleepover.
5.  I use 4 pillows when I sleep. I can still sleep with 1 but that's a struggle.
6.  I drink hot beverage when I woke up especially before taking a bath.
7.  I'm afraid of worms more than I fear heights.
8.  I was labelled to carrying my home inside my bag. It's huge man.
9.  I cannot leave home without my handkerchief.
10. I love playing Nancy Drew Games
11. I'm afraid of vaccines and anything that has to do with pricking my skin.

Breathe, okay let's move on with the questions, shall we?


1. What is your favorite and hated food and why?

-> I have a lot of favorite food but chicken is the most because I'm allergic to it. I hate beans, any kind of beans. I can't explain why.

2. If you were to sing in front of many people what song would you sing and why?

-> Me singing in front of people will never gonna happen. Trust me. But if you'll insist I'll sing "Through the Fire". Why? It's my first time so it should be memorable. So help me God.

3. (Fill in the blank) If I could just _________, and why? ....

-> love again, hahaha, joke. I'm clueless. Next question please...

4. Except from the one you truly love is there’s somebody that makes you feel special?

-> uhmm, maybe

5. (Fill in the blank again) This 2012 I promise I will ____ and I will not _____, and why?

-> This 2012 I promise I will Eat, Pray and Love and will not procrastinate.

6. 3 things you regret you did in 2011?

-> 1st Procrastinate, 2nd procrastinate and 3rd procrastinate.

7. 3 things you regret of not doing in 2011?

->  1. Live life to the fullest, 2. enjoy random stuffs  and 3. make the most of everything.

8. If you could make things right what would it be and why?

-> Everything happens for a reason. No changes necessary because lessons were learned.

9. In your own words… why do you think GOD HAS CREATED YOU?

-> Personally, I know and feel that God created me to be a blessing to my family (hahaha) but I am not contended with that. I know I can give more and that is what my journey is all about.

10. What is love for you?

-> It's overrated but yet it's magic. It rocks world. Right?

11. If given a chance to talk to your ex(s), what would say to them and why?

-> Hahaha, laugh, LOL. What can I say? I dunno. Good luck or maybe God bless. I'll cross the bridge when I get there.

One down 4 to go. Thanks for the questions Al. I had a great time answering them.

Forgiveness

No one can change the past, but you have the power,

as of this moment, to see it differently

Whenever I buy a book, I always record the date and place where I get a piece of my collection. As per record shows, I acquired my darling above on March 02, 2011 at St. Pauls. I bought it on purpose. I remember that day when I immediately snuggle myself on the couch as soon as I got home and scanned the pages. It took me two weeks in reading, reached page 52 and stopped. Since then, I let it rest on the bookshelf and never opened it until yesterday.

I know you have a question. Why did I stopped reading when I was so eager at the beginning? Because at page 52, I go back and started at page 1 again and the same scenario repeats itself. I was reading but I couldn't remember any single detail. 

I realized that no matter how I tried to forgive, my heart wouldn't take it to circulation unless I perceive the past with brand new eyes. Early last year were days of me wanting to move forward, walk away from past pains and before doing that, I know I have to forgive. That was the purpose I was talking about when I bought the book. But I never realized that no matter how hard you wanted to forgive, there are certain elements that should go along with it to make the process genuine.

What I'd read until page 52 was enough food for my eagerness to forgive and it sums up what I needed to know to understand the process I have to go through. That forgiveness is a process. A long process that will take time and only time itself will let you feel when it's the right time. That it's hard to bestow forgiveness when  the one who hurts us never asked or never wanted for reconciliation. Then I know I don't have to push my heart to forgive just for me to walk forward, it will come in due time.

From then, I left everything to fate and worked with my own terms searching for happiness that seems so distant and obscure. Trials, troubles, hindrances along the way like I was on a marathon with obstacles. There were times, I grasped laughter with my bare hands but I know the laughter is not pure cause there was a room in my heart bothered with the thoughts of the past.

I repaired my broken pieces, put a little oil to make me function as before and alas, my efforts made myself like a new invention. Seeing what I left behind in a new perspective gave me a clear view of what lies ahead. I started to acknowledge the human and good qualities behind the person who hurt me and I know if not for the scar of the wound of an accident that involved both of us, we could have been great friends. And like what I used to say, we're victims of circumstances and no one is vulnerable to pains.

Until I finally  had a glimpsed of a bright day ahead. I received an email with the sender's heart in it. I felt the sincerity and the purity of the intention. A big step in repairing the damages of our hearts. It was then that I know everything will be put to rest, as I am ready to forgive and she is ready to make amends. That was one of the day when I felt like a huge rock was lifted from my heart. 

Walls started to break, and a bridge between two rivers was constructed for us to meet. Awkward at the beginning but I'm glad we did. A kind of special day for I not only lift a burden from her heart but I also free mine as well. 

I wish you well all the time and be the best of a lady that you can be. You will always be in my prayers as I am into yours. Take care and thank you. I can say no more, I'm overwhelmed.

Drunk

After getting headache differentiating the words "drank" and "drunk" ( I seriously need to go back to school and study subject and verb agreement again) I was intoxicated with a naughty idea. After contemplating on the matter and rigorous analysis on situations I witnessed, I am sure that a person drunk with power is far more dangerous than a person drunk with alcoholic beverages.

How far does powerful person willing to go to hold on to their power? There are people out there who were bestowed with the power to rule but never take it into heart but rather let it dominate their mind. Boasting like the world would never end and that universe conspire for their benefit alone.

Who said that only alcoholic beverages have the capacity to intoxicate people's mind?

You better think twice

Conspiracy and Anomaly: Post Office Experience

At last the time has come. I've been dreading for this day to come when I could pour out my emotions. My last two post were visible evidences how I was so into Snail Mail. But no matter how perfect a thing is, sometimes there are hindrances that can never be avoided.

Before I start, please brace yourself. As much as I wanted to let this pass, I couldn't because I know actions should be taken at least, on the least thing that I can do and that is to turn on my blog for help. This is a long story

February 9, 2011, Thursday, the landlady knocked on my door to give me another notice from the post office. I'm already expecting it and I was so happy because this time the parcel arrived immediately. The said notice includes the days and time you can claim your parcel (Monday and Wednesday, 8:00 am - 12:00 p.m.) and the amount you have to pay for the custom fee which is Php40. Though there was another print on the notice which states M-W instead of M and W only, so I assume I can still claim it on Tuesday because the schedule wasn't clear. If you're wondering why I have to claim it on the post office instead of it being delivered directly, well that is because every parcel should be inspected in the presence of the customs representative, which is I think a good point to avoid illegal products. 

Came Monday I wasn't able to claim it because the rain poured so hard. On Valentines Day I immediately went to the post office. The post office personnel assigned on window 5 of Alabang psot office informed me that the customs representative wasn't there. I told her that I took my chances because of the two schedules printed on the notice. Afterwards she told me to wait for a while and she will call the customs representative if she can release the parcel. She made the call and then she described the product I received to the customs representative and before that, she handed me the card that comes with the gadget case and told me to handle it.

Post Office personnel: Maam Happy Valentines, someone is claiming a parcel here. May I give it to her? (She had to describe the parcel so the rep can decide) It's from the United Kingdom, it's a Gadget case, Cath Kidston ltd, London. It's beautiful. A gadget case which looks fit for a Samsung Galaxy Y cellphone, the trending phone today. There's 16.96 British Pound on the outside.

After that she put down the phone. And she told me:

Post Office personnel: she said you have to pay a tax because the product was from the United Kingdom and it's expensive. She will call again (which I think by that time the rep was doing her calculations) and if she told you the amount you have to pay, for example she told you it's Php700, tell her you only had Php 300 in your pocket. (Nice advice from a public servant).

Right there and then, my guts told me there was something going on. The customs representative called again and she talked to me saying I have to pay the taxes and duties for the product which is Php1361.00. Below is the picture of the notice they gave me where the post office personnel wrote the amount I have to pay. I asked her why it's so expensive and she explained that is due to the fact that the product I received is expensive (OMG, insert deep breath here, when I breathe deeply that means I am already losing my temper and my patience). 

I told her that I'll just go back because I don't bring that much money knowing that I just have to pay Php40 for the customs fee. Then she asked me to hand the phone to the post office personnel.  They talked for like 5 minutes and as long as the post office personnel put down the phone, this is what she told me:

Post Office Personnel: Maam said she can lower down the cost to Php700.00 (OMG again) If you will not claim your parcel they will send it for auction. You should claim it, it's beautiful.

Needless to say I decided not to claim my parcel. First I would like to talk to the customs representative and make my research before paying the amount. While walking outside the office, I sent a message to Mommy Razz and I asked her if she was required to pay a certain amount of tax. At night I sent a DM to Kris which I was so hesitant to do at first. I asked her if the other recipient of the gift paid too, but unfortunately one is from Spain. It's clearer than water that I was the only one obliged by the customs representative to pay. I also did my research.

Wednesday

I went back to the post office and I was glad that the customs representative, Ms. Carlota C. Caberto was there.  I approached the post office personnel again and this time she's not friendly as the other day. She said that I took the card and didn't returned it when in fact she's the one who gave it to me. I said I came back to claim my parcel and that the sender told me that wasn't very expensive like what they're telling me. They almost yelled at me telling me that they cannot take my word and I have to present them the receipt of the gift. Ms. Carlota Caberto asked for the parcel and she told me if I want to, she'll value the product (that is to compute for the tax I have to pay) and I agreed. When the post office personnel hand her down the gadget case, she was somehow shocked that the product she wants me to pay an expensive amount is a piece of gadget case even marked as gift.

Without computing for the value, she handed me the case and didn't made me pay for Php1361.00 she mentioned on the phone the other day.

Why am I telling this?

Eventhough I didn't paid for the said taxes and duties in the end, there is somehow an anomaly and conspiracy going on. It's not a problem to pay for what is due. No matter how high the tax was if they were able to present me with the computation and didn't offered me for a discounted tax, I might have paid for it. But the moment they did it, I had second thoughts.

To the customs representative and post office personnel

I don't know if it's legal for you to offer a discount on air parcel taxes. If yes, I guess you should explain to the claimant why and how did you arrive to that computation. 

Instead of showing and explaining to us why and how did you compute for the tax and what is it for, you always serve us with burning head, ( i take it you don't want to answer our questions.)

You should also refrain from computing the tax via phone when you haven't seen the product yet and don't know the real value of the item. It's prone to mistakes like what had happened to me. I almost gave you an amount which is more worthy to be spent on street children.

You as public servants chose to be on that position should always serve with kindness but instead whenever we approach your office, you always have that grin face.

When I said I take it seriously, I did. That is the reason why I've written the whole story. By now, you already guess what I am intending to do. I don't want other people to be trap on that kind of situation again. 

For additional reference you can read Taxes sa Air Parcels na Kinukuha sa Post Office written by Ms. Ruth Floresca only it was written in Filipino.

Please be careful not to be carried away with the wrong doings of this society. We should serve and protect our country from the corrupt and malpractices. As Mahatma Gandhi said, "Be the change you want to see in the world". Let's all be vigilant.