Cintai Corito's Garden: A Sweet Escape from the Busy World

Amanda Jane Sturge says, “Love is the food of life, travel is the dessert.” I say, “Travel with the one you love, it’s a healthy way to celebrate life.”

I always love the idea of visiting new places, especially if it’s with the one I love. That’s why whenever I see beautiful attractions posted online, my desire of having a first-hand experience bursts out.

Among the places I was able to visit this year was Cintai Corito’s Garden, where my boyfriend and I celebrated our 2^nd anniversary. It’s a Balinese-inspired sanctuary in Lipa City, Batangas that offers every visitor a sweet escape from the busy world.

  

The main entrance will surely hit you with the Bali feels. As you walk around the place, you’ll see a lot of sculptures, and statues that are perfectly designed according to its theme. Here’s few of my favorite spots:

Always ready for selfie! :D

Gigantic walls located at the back of the resort.

This one's my favorite! 

Even the statues are smiling!

Let's go swimming!

What’s lovely about Coritos is that you’re free to take pictures to all open sites. Besides the villas, swimming pools, and gigantic walls, I was also amazed by how the bathroom was structured.

It may look like a cabinet, but it's really the bathroom door!

Feels good to freshen up here.

Plus, they serve delicious meals too! We had chicken bbq, fish fillet, stirred veggies and soup for lunch. (And btw, we also had lemonade juice for the welcoming drinks.)

So if you’re looking for a refreshing getaway, then this garden resort must be on your bucket list! Make sure your cameras and smartphones are fully charged to not miss all the picture-prefect spots. 

Adios from us, 'til my next travel blog! :)

2nd anniversary at Corito's Garden

Cintai Corito's Garden offers day tour and overnight package, as well as prenup pictorials. 

Visit coritosgarden.com and discover more about their variety of accommodations at reasonable rates.

Look Up : A Letter To This Generation

Today's generation is dominated by recurring advancement of technology. This has been very evident in all parts of the globe – which perhaps, everyone has been guilty about. As I browsed through the newsfeed on Facebook, I saw the video Look Up by Gary Turk which seriously amused me and opened my eyes on the real state of today's generation. 

Disconnect to Connect

"We're generation of idiots, smartphones and dumb people." I can never blame Gary Turk for describing this generation that way. Wherein beauty is measured by how many likes you get on Facebook and height of emotions are bragged on one's status.

Photos are widely seen anywhere – from what you eat on each meal of the day, how you look when you just woke up or even after taking a bath. Though posting photos is not a big issue here, we must still consider if such thing is too much. It's not about secrecy, but sometimes valuing some things as private is intimate than what others think.

Instead of shouting out loud anger through statuses, why not speak to them. Your monitor would not respond either and the situation will be worsened when others try to involve themselves. Just like the same old adage says, "not all are concerned, some are just curious." Which I agreed the most on what Gary Turk expressed, "Talk to people. Learn to co-exist."

Losing the Sense of Old School

Nowadays, kids are used to playing on IPads and computers for games are easily downloadable on app stores. But have they ever experienced climbing trees? How about playing street games such as patintero, tumbang preso, sekyo and many others? 

Imagine... they are starting to lose the sense of childhood that the previous generations used to have. It was never wrong allowing them to enjoy gadgets, but we must still teach them on what real childhood is.

Admittedly, social networking sites are best for sharing photos. Thanks to technology, friends around the globe could get to see updates from you. But are there still people who print photos and have them hanged on the wall or placed on a photo album? Aren't these the better ways for keeping memories? 

Look Up instead of Looking Down

Relationships are strongly built by communication, by real, sensible conversations. Question is, what does it take to have a real one? In this generation surrounded by inventions, some have forgotten the true essence of communication.

Spending hours with special people requires eye contact. Forget about looking at your phones, IPads or gadgets. Appreciate every moment. Listen to what he/she says. See the smile on his/her face. Embrace the laughter you both feel.

As what Gary Turk said, "When you're too busy looking down you don't see the chances you miss." So, why miss a thing? If all you have to do is put that down even for just a while then you will get to experience what true happiness is.

IRR: Ideal. Real. Right.

"If we remain stuck in the idea that every potential mate must meet an idealistic standard, we miss out on real opportunities to meet real people." ~ Jean Cirillo

As early as young age, people begin to dream—a picture perfect family, predetermined career, and the like. Most of us have this innately. We are inspired on looking forward to the future. We think ahead. We imagine things in ways we want it to be. But between love and career, which do you think confuses the Right, Real and Ideal? Perhaps, many would go for love.

Idealistic and Realistic Standard

Would you settle for someone who's real or ideal? How will you know if that person is the right one? Apparently, this is one of the most simplest questions in the world and yet remains complicated. From the moment you read this, think of someone whom you think is ideal.

• good-looking; handsome, beautiful, a hunk, a goddess
• rich; has a living, a business, and a established career
• smart; sports buff 
• talented; dances, sings, acts

Aren't the characteristics lovely? Yes. He/she is ideal. But is that person real? I mean, in a different perspective, could you come up something real with the person you think is ideal? Not all the time. Now, take a second to think someone who has been there for you all the time?

• listens to your stories and problems
• accepts and respects you
• spends time with you
• makes you happy, feel loved and secure

Have you thought of someone? If you did, then someone real do exists! And since you were able to recognize the difference between the two, congrats! you are a normal person who dreams and comprehends. :)

Realizing the Right One

Luckily, there are some who met theirs who are both ideal and real. Someone they are deeply in love with who has likable characteristics and individuality. However, we all have personal preferences. Someone who is ideal and real for you may not be the same for the other. In the end, does it really matter? When the right one comes, you'll know. So for those who are deaf and blind who keep on denying that they already found the one. Here's a quick checklist:

• He/She is the right one when you stopped thinking on where standard he/she belongs.
• When you no longer care if that person doesn't meet any of your standards.
• When you look at the person and not on what that person has to offer.
• When your questions in life finally had answers. and,
• When you can't even ask for more.

Now, think again...

Last Note

Remember that someone who's ideal cannot always be real and sometimes someone who's real can barely be ideal. The chance of meeting the right one always depend on you. Fate brings you on the situation that you yourself has made.

Book Review & Summary: The Five People You Meet In Heaven

I got tired of browsing delish recipes on the Internet so I decided to read some books online. Trying to reminisce my College days, suddenly I remember a book that my professor used to say –The Five People You Meet in Heaven. Amid my reading, I felt this curiosity rushing through my veins. The excitement is there that propels me to keep on reading. It was beautifully written, and the lines helped in bringing out the best of the story. Some adage says that when you thought of putting yourself into the character’s shoes simply means that you were get caught by the story. It is not a romantic novel that everyone could cling onto; however, it is an inspiring story of living life on earth and seeing how you lived on earth once you reached heaven.

I can’t really interpret how the main character, “Eddie” looks like.  But, Mitch Albom described him as an 83 year-old man whose character’s description changes as the narration of the story goes on.  At some point he is courageous, sometimes he is coward. He is loving but he lost himself after a sudden incident in his life. In my own point of view, the plot consists of three subplots—first twist, highlight and ending. These three are correlative among each other. Metaphorically, they are under the same roof which is Eddie’s life and death.

The first twist dwelt more on Eddie’s way to his death. He attempted to save the four people on a ride not because it is his job as the maintenance of the amusement park but because he wanted to help. What bothers him is if he was able to save the little girl he saw. The highlight on the other hand emphasized on how he affected some significant people in his life and what roles they play in each others lives. And the ending? I found it having double meanings which I will explicate later on. Mitch Albom’s concept of heaven is not far beyond on how we think it is. Apparently, it seems like he himself already have seen and touchdown heaven. That alone made me moved into the thinking of living my life well especially when the five people he met in heaven entered the picture.

First is the Blue Man, who died because of the young Eddie who chased after his ball. He taught Eddie that, “There are no random acts. That we are all connected. That you can no more separate one life from another than you can separate a breeze from a wind.” Eddie was young back then that is why he is completely unaware on how it is relevant on his life. It was an accident wherein the good thing about the Blue Man’s death is that Eddie lived. It may not look fair but “...fairness does not govern life and death. If it did, no good person would ever die young.”, the Blue Man said. “Strangers are just family you have yet to come know.”, he quipped.

The second person he met was from a different lens. He even recognized who’s the man—the Captain. Eddie worked as a military man before. He has a brave heart. Yet, his random act of bravery caused him to break his leg which he never thought he got from a friend. He wanted to save a little girl from the fire but the troop don’t want to leave him alone and get burned. So the Captain shoot his leg to stop him. Eddie was hospitalized afterward, and he barely get intact with his friends and never heard about the Captain, not knowing that the Captain died. What did the Captain taught him? “Sacrifice is a part of life. It is supposed to be. It is not something to regret. It is something to aspire to.” And, “Sometimes when you sacrifice something precious, you’re not really losing it. You’re just passing it on someone else.”

And so the third person seemed to be a stranger to Eddie. That person is Ruby; she is the woman behind Ruby Pier where he and his father worked. His husband Emile built it for her as a gift, but unfortunately he died when the pier was on fire. Ruby supposed to be the most significant in terms of implying to him the truth about his father. When he was young, his relationship with his father was cruel and so when he grew up—a lot worse. But he barely knew about what happened on that night when his father died. Mickey, his father’s friend was on their house that moment. He saw him drunk and intimately with his wife in his own house. They fought. But Eddie’s father ended up saving his friend from a huge wave of water in the shore. Lesson: “Things that happen before you are born still affect you, and people who come before your time affect you as well.” Ruby also questioned him, “Which was worse when left unexplained: a life, or a death?” And then she added, “Holding anger is a poison. It eats us from the inside.”After hearing these, Eddie was able to forgive his father and said the words he used to utter whenever his father summons him, "It's fixed."

Have I told you that Eddie is a married man? Okay. Here it is. The fourth person he met in heaven is Marguerite, his wife. Eddie’s married life is simple yet completely happy. His wife invites along friends every time it’s Eddie’s birthday. She often surprise him in little and special ways. But Eddie weakened after his wife’s death. She died wanting to apologize after yelling on him over the phone. What Marguerite told him in heaven is that, “Lost love is still love. It takes a different form… Memory is your partner. You nurture it. You hold it. You dance with it.” “Life has to end. Love doesn’t.”

Eddie kept on asking to the prior four people he met in heaven if he saved the girl. Not knowing, she's the fifth and the last person he will meet in heaven. Who's that little girl? Remember the incident he had with captain wherein he wanted to save a little girl from the fire? It happened in the Philippines. And that little girl she wanted to save is also the little girl he wanted to save from the ride. Contrary to his belief. She saved him and pushed him to heaven. It's not him who saved her, it's her who saved him. Then suddenly, all of Eddie's questions were answered and his difficulty of understanding his shortcomings has come to an end. He is now ready to start a new beginning, to go back home, and to live at peace in heaven.

Each people we meet has a purpose in our lives, whether he is a friend, family, acquaintance, foe, and even stranger. You may not understand it at the moment but time will come that you will realize that it was glad that they came. Greatest Lesson of the novel?:

 "That each affects the other and the other affects the next, and the world is full of stories, but the stories are all one."

That's it! To those who haven't read the book, read it. To those who already did, lucky are you. Our life is a blessing, so let's be a blessing to each other. God Bless us all!

'Cause it's your birthday!

Here's to my lovely friend, Eunice:

Relax babe. Today, let me do the writing for you. Though we are miles apart, there was never a second that you don't pass through our conversations. So, I guess I should tell you what happened the whole day yesterday. It has been so much fun. We did the usual things that we do whenever we are out. Jayson and I met up at Wency's  place. I arrived first. By the way, Wency cut off her long hair and it looks good on her. She gained a little weight and still has a husky voice which she got since she started working. Jayson on the other hand, flaunt his color-coordinated outfit (blue and yellow); you know how much ready he is when it comes to camwhoring.

We left Wency's place at around 11am and arrived at Aney's by 12nn. Aney also gained weight, as expected. Few changes on her figure and facial features start to come out. We saw Kuya Kain (Uyyyy!). Aney's mom kept on asking about you, reminiscing thesis days. We also had a "party like lunch" and it was pretty good. Nadz came in late which I'm not surprised of (hahaha). Jayson still love to tease her a lot which make her do that you-know-how look.We took some photos in front of the Barbecho's mini farmville. Just look at the photos once posted. Afterwards, we thought of karaokeing at SM. As we get there, Wency asked us to go first at Starbuck's, not to treat us but to introduce someone to the group. I was so excited that moment assuming that it is her special someone or someone she is dating. In my shock, It is Nickson! He wanted to catch up that is why he came. Sadly, Kit was not able to make it. He is sick and he needed rest which we understood.

Okay, moving on. We first took our snack, heavy snack actually not like the Mcdonald's food trip that we used to do. We ate at Slice and Dice and since Kit  was not there, I was in-charge for the photos. Tsk. When we are done, we proceed to our favorite past time --videoke. Just like the old times, we played around inside the videoke room, turned on and off the lights which made one staff almost approached us. Good thing we immediately opened the lights before he came in. HAHAHA. :D Those I really miss.

We miss you so much that is why I wrote this one plus I want to make your birthday very special. Ooops. Happy Birthday! I really do appreciate the call last night, I needed it. Thank you! I love you so much. :)

PS:
Wait for more!

Missing you,

Faye

Book Review: Perks of Being a Wallflower

"...not a self-centered story but rather a story of exploring oneself and appreciating the rest." -I can sum up the novel with that.

Being a wallflower makes you see things and understand them, and that's what I loved about the story. Charlie who happens not to realize how smart he is got to use his not-so-salient persona as an advantage to explore the world of love, anxiety and pain. He found a sweet escape of life through reading novels and in writing letters to an anonymous friend. He is devastated on the feeling of being loved and appreciated. He sobs every time he gets hurt--which I think good for him to really cope with the anxiety.

The author does not dwell that much on alcohol and drugs but it really did add flavors on how Charlie started to experiment himself. A lot of teenagers might relate on it, since it tackled on issues which some teenagers might have been experiencing. I also like how it is realistically written. After all the challenges and triumphs, one must not forget to be grateful on having friends and family 'cause not everyone has such.

Silence Speaks for the Self

Silence often happens when there is a conflict, confusion and concentration. Among these, concentration leads to good silence. However, confusion and conflict can somehow be a good motivator that leads a person into concentration. “Silence is the spiritual knife which lays open our souls. If we are never silent, we never have to examine the truth about ourselves.”, as Philip Gully said.  

Silence speaks for the self. In this busy and loud world, everyone must have time to dwell on important matters about life and to unveil what is within us.

Silence Works for Health

Keeping in silence is not healthy for some same as holding it. But with proper management of it, it could create a place for relaxation and realization. Sometimes, dealing with silence can be one of the best things you can do for yourself. When it comes to health, it reduces the body's level of stress.  Aside from having a power-nap and a sleep, silence also do the social control. Through silence, a person may start to meditate and relax which recharges physical and mental batteries. It slows down the body deep rest and the body rhythm. The heartbeat rate and the breathing rate slows down as well. This helps in relaxing the whole body and provides the chance of coming out from the hustle and bustle of the world and roaring issues. 
                                                                                                                                                                                                           

Silence Acts for Discovery                                                               

People are surrounded by various commotions in the environment. And silence, being an absence and a presence, helps everyone into self uncovering.  When in silence, a person starts to think. Creative ideas and thoughts may come out which is healthy. It paves a way for communicating with the self, or what we call Intrapersonal Communication. Through this, a person  begins to listen in his inner voice and eventually makes it to the heart. Upon communicating with the self, calmness might be felt because the outer and the inner self meets the balance. "In silence, we're calmer," as said by Sharon Salzberg, co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Mass. "Silence helps us connect to that which we normally miss--elements of our experience that are subtle yet rich." Silence also helps a person find guidance in daily living. Since thinking and communication with the self became recently present, seeking for guidance and openness follows. Aside from these, silence promotes self-discovery. With the existence of the preceding benefits, one will know what he does not know about himself or knows but denies into himself. He discovers what is behind and beyond the issues that he is facing and experiencing. With that, he will eventually see and realize the importance of everyday living.

Me and my pen

Pens are created the same reason why we live in this world—to write stories of inspiration and behold upon our fate and papers are invented to unfold the beauty of each stories being written. This made the two share a perfect partnership together.

I guess I share the same metaphor in life; I am the pen and the people surrounding me are the paper. I may not write my own life stories that I desire, since, God has already written it for me. But then, I know I may still complement it through some momentous events gained from learning and dreaming.

Writing is just like conducting music, the hand must accompany with the beat. Then, I’m fascinated with the idea of writing stories. I may not always speak out but I always observe. I love to play with the thoughts I have in mind, put them together and come up with a beautiful masterpiece. I love asking questions because in asking you will get to know what you still don’t know. I sometimes argue and fear of losing. Those randomness of me may or may not show how far can I go.  But in the end, I know I will never be alone, ‘cause my hand will always have my pen and even if its beat turned out of tune it will forever be my best friend.

Happy New Year!

Another year has to end. Bucket of lessons are learned.
My 2012 has been a roller coaster ride;
sometimes I'm up, sometimes I'm down,
and there were times that I felt like I'm spinning around.

Some left, while others stayed.
I have met new people and then started catching up with old friends.
Bonded with my dear friends whom I know will never leave me until the end.
And celebrated life with my family who supported me all the way.

Whatever we do and we wear in welcoming 2013,
it's still in our hands on how it will be.
Instead of comparing and complaining, be good enough to thank the Lord.
Move forward and leave the past behind.
We will never be completely happy if we keep on looking back.
Look back but appreciate the present.

And with this, I'm thanking people who taught me a lesson in special ways;
people who inspired me to live; and people whom I shared beautiful moments with.

Always put God first and the rest will surely follow.
Happy New Year, everyone!

Just Got Lucky.

Confusion. Miscommunication. Wrong direction.

Earlier this afternoon, I was so excited to meet up with my best friend. We planned to watch a movie and she agreed to accompany me in buying stuffs for a party I'm attending. When I was on my way, I texted her that I'm near the place, "Crossing na ko, frenxip." She immediately replied, "Crossing din ako frenxip, saan banda ka? Sakay na ako jeep. Tumal nagpupuno pa." But the jeepney I was riding on was so fast. I reached SM Calamba in just few minutes. I decided to call Lorraine and I was closely to roll on the floor on what have happened.

"Frenxip, andito na ako sa SM Calamba. Nasaan kna?", I said.
"Ha? Akala ko Sta.Rosa tayo, umandar na jeep ko!" She reacted.
"Hala. Sta.Rosa ba tayo? Di ako maalam magcommute, sige punta ko diyan." (Me panicking felt like it's the end of the world)

After what I've heard, I didn't let any second to pass. I moved quickly and I realized that I walked from SM's parking lot to Crossing. Wew! That was far for me, huh. I crossed the footbridge and when I reached the terminal I waited for almost 15 minutes. Luckily, it only took me 30 mins. to travel all the way to SM Sta. Rosa. And so, me and my bestfriend finally crossed our paths. We were laughing so hard that it was such a big misunderstanding. I had a little rest while making conversations on everything then we decided to buy tickets for the movie. ANOTHER not-so-good-thing: the movie we want to watch is no longer on Cinemas. My gosh! When we checked it on the net the day before it was still there. So what are we gonna do then? Hm.. Instead of complaining we decided to go for a walk and start buying gifts that I'm supposed to buy. Okay, so the escalator is broken. Keep your feet moving, girls! Three malas in a row. What else is next? We thought that there is something up to us that's why bad things kept on happening. We assumed that something good will happen in return, so we bought a lotto ticket just the red hot thingy and we won 70 pesos. :D See? We're still lucky. Hihi.

Then, I bought all the things that my mom asked me to buy plus the wrappers she summoned. Afterwards, we went on Karaokeing for 30 minutes. We screamed and sung so loud and we don't even care. Thinking of you. One that gone away. Someday. One sweet day. Tell him. and our very favorite birit song IT'S ALL COMING BACK TO ME NOW. When were done, we had a drink then roam around. Ooops. Here's another, I left the wrapper I bought! The good thing is, when I came back to get the wrapper it's still there!

It's running late and Lorraine needs to go home before 7:30. We're stuck on traffic. But it's alright, we had quality time talking about everything and making fun of the passengers (mean). Hahaha!

Not-so-lucky-day but it was lovely.
Just felt like sharing. :D

Paga ang pes ni Lorraine. HAHAHAHAHA. 

Men and their Metaphors

Men a­­­re like chocolates—sweet and fattening. They will flatter you with sweet words that you want to hear that once you’ve heard enough you’ll long for more.

Lucky are you if you got one who’s like SM Department Store, someone who “got it all for you.”

But there are men who are complicated… complicated more than any status in life. Sometimes they don’t know where to stand, just like a child who lost his memory and is confused on his identity.

They are as unpredictable as the end of the world. You wouldn’t know what they are up to or when the two of you are through.

Perhaps it’s because they are mysterious. Only a patient and passionate reader would understand them seeing men as an interesting book. However, the tricky part is they are like Math problems. They are hard to understand especially if there are x’s involved.

They are like politicians whose promises turned into waste; eager at first and when they gain your trust they will leave you hanging and hoping. But it’s nice when they sometimes act like a straw who befriends with your friends making it sweet just for you.

There are also few who are like horror films who gave you terrifying scenes that you don’t want to remember as you go to sleep. Yet, there are some who are like electric fans who cool you down and stand by your side in your not so cool moments.

They are bitches… and there are reasons why they act that way.

In spite all of their metaphors; still, loving them is as breathtaking as a bungee jump. Frightening, but when you are in their arms you will forget about the fear.

They are indifferent, strange, and crazy but not all of them are the same. They must be weird sometimes, yes, as fickle minded as a woman can be.

After all, they are the reason why women are happy, happy more than just having a new pair of shoes. J

Fab Five. ;)

These past few days, my page was filled of different bonding activities that I have had with my friends. Spending time with them is one of my favorite past times, indeed. It doesn’t matter how short or long we share each other’s time, what important is the value of making every moment possible just to be with each other.

In my twenty one years of existence, I may have not lived impeccably but I know I have made a genuine decision in my entire living. And that is, choosing who my friends are. If I were to be asked on what is the most memorable chapter in my life… without hesitation I will surely say, HIGH SCHOOL days.  I might have regret some of the events in my teen age years but I will not be this way if not because of those.

You are not completely human if you were not able to enjoy or passed through the happenings during those four years. Definitely, those were the times when you don’t have to worry much. Ooops! Did I just say it right? Less worries during HS days? Maybe when it comes to your studies, you could expect pampering and spoon feeding but in terms of the people surrounding you, Jeez! You could even be reigned as the University’s Most Popular! Rumor has it. Hearing a lot of grapevines and gossips, that will surely make you known.

However, not all youngsters celebrate popularity in an awful way. Some were being pursued by admirers while others excel in academics and sports. Whatever way you reached popularity or whether you were just part of the minority, one thing is certain— most of us found our best friends in this stage of our lives.

I’m proud to say, I found mine and we were able to keep the friendship going even years passed by. J

During Jemi's 21st bday. (from left) Me, Louie, Lorraine, Aira, and Jemima

Stereotypes.

"Hindi lahat ng sa tingin ng marami ay tama, dahil hindi batayan ang bilang ng naniniwala para sabihin mo sarili mong tama rin na maniwala ka."

Isa yan sa mga bagay na napatunayan ko habang nabubuhay ako. Sa maraming pagkakataon madali tayong madala at mahigit ng sitwasyon lalo na kung ang mga tao sa paligid natin ay iisa lamang ang sinasabi. Hindi man natin gusto ay nadidiktahan tayo ng iba siguro dahil malapit tayo sa kanila o nasanay na lang tayo na maki-ayon sa pangyayari. Minsan ganyan ako. "Kung anong gusto ng iba, sige doon ako." Hindi rin naman kasi masamang mag-compromise. 

Pero ang ayoko... 'yung stereotypes.

Nagiba ang pananaw ko simula ng nakilala ko ang kaibigan ko na ito. Isa siyang frat man. Actually, hindi ko alam noon na frat man siya. Nalaman ko lang sa isa pa naming kaibigan. Noong unang pagkikita namin hindi ko siya kinakausap, hindi pinapansin. Ganun ako e, minamata ko lahat ng tao lalo na kung unang pagkikita. Mahirap kasi magtiwala. Hindi ko basta basta binibigay 'yun. Hanggang dumating ang pangalawa at ikatlong pagkikita, narealize ko mabait naman pala siya. Katulad din namin, masayahin siya. Sabi nga noong sa amin, di siya umubra sa kakulitan ko. Madaldal siya tulad ko, pero mas madaldal pa rin ako! Habang tumatagal, gumaan na pakiramdam ko sa kaniya. Katulad ng iba kong kaibigan, gusto kong lagi siyang nakakasama. Hindi pala siya tulad ng iniisip ko. Hindi tulad ng sinasabi ng iba.

Taliwas sa kaalaman ng marami. Hindi lahat ng kabilang sa frat ay mga duwag at masasamang tao. Na kaya nila piniling mapabilang sa grupong ito ay dahil kailangan nila ng karamay sa lahat ng bagay at may reresbak sa kung ano pa mang susuungin nilang away. Pero matapos ang isang pangyayari na nasaksihan ko kamakailan lamang, napatunayan ko hindi lahat. Hindi tamang isarado natin ang ating isipan na para hindi sila intindihin at paniwalaan. Tao rin sila na may pinagdadaanan. Minsan sila pa 'yung handang isuko ang sarili para ipaglaban ang tinatawag na samahan. Handang magsakripisyo para sa kapakanan ng kapwa kaibigan. Hindi lahat sa kanila ay duwag, maaring naiinspire silang maging matapang para maging kasangga ng iba. Hindi sila masasamang tao, katulad rin din natin sila. Normal, may buhay at grupong handang ipaglaban. 'Yan ang natutunan ko sa kaniya. 

Huwag tayong manghusga sa bagay na hindi naman talaga natin nalalaman at naiintindihan. Lahat tayo may istorya. Saka lang natin maiintindihan 'pag sibukan nating malaman.

Approved!

Yesterday afternoon I was out the whole day to support my frenxip on her thesis defense. Since my newest hobby is photography, I volunteered to be her official photographer. She said that this is one of the momentous events in her life, and I could have not miss the world for it. Along with us is her mom who have shown big support from stuffs like driving and buying foods. Of course, Aira (frenxip #2) is also present who acted as Lorraine's note taker. 

Before the defense began, Lorraine was so busy rehearsing and me, Aira and Mark were busy chatting. In the middle of our joyful conversation, we found out that one of us is currently experiencing a problem. I don't know but I really felt sad when I heard about the story. No matter what happens my friend, you can always rely on us. But like what we have told you, it's better to tell the truth. Shout out! If they were in your position, I believe they will understand. :)

Any way going back to Lorraine's defense...

The panelists arrived at around 3 o'clock pm. My friend is stuttering in her Intro but she was able to run through it successfully. It was a calm and long discussion with the panelists. With that picture, I remember my thesis days just a year ago. In our school, we have a different procedure. We have two oral defense, one for proposal and another for the final. Lorraine is lucky. The room is filled with three intelligent critics who incidentally argue in a very cool manner--that lessens the jitters. The discussion took more than an hour and it ended well. The two panelists already signed the paper in a condition that Lorraine will make the necessary revisions to be noted and checked by his editor. Two thumbs up frenxip! Approved! ;)

After the long standing, finally we can eat and have a little photo shoot. Let's see what I have in here...

(from left) panelist 1, editor, lorrraine's mom, lorraine, panelist 2

Three lovely friends. (from left) me, lorraine and aira. :)

"Finally, no more sleepless nights." hehe

Happiness Brought By The Curls

(From left) My best friend, Lorraine and me, having our hair digi-permed

                                 

Always ready to try new things, that's what we are. We're inseparable, and we have this undeniable bond. Since High School we are proud of being dreamers. Together with our other bff's, we used to plan our future. From the simple things of going in a salon together, shopping when we already have our works, being partners in a business and building our own families together. Those are just some of the dreams that we have in mind. And step by step, we will run our lives for it.

Just this October, we thought of having sexy curls. We did some research on where to have a good digital perming. I even asked my twitter and facebook friends if they can recommend me a salon that offers affordable and yet awesome perms. Fortunately, some of them replied and they all recommended a similar salon--Tony and Jackey. Immediately, I did checked it on the Internet and I was amazed by what I saw. So I updated my frenxip (that's what we call each other) and poof, date scheduled! Good thing that Tony and Jackey Salon has a branch in Alabang. 

When we arrived there, they checked our hairs and afterwards they washed it. We spent three to four hours 'til our perms are done. From shampooing, we sat down on a Octopus-like machine then a treatment was applied on our hair which they call hair manicure. Seriously, it was a bit boring and you would feel a rumble on your stomach due to hunger. Haha. :D Lucky that we asked someone to  buy something for us. Our bellies were saved by the bell. Then it's done! Curls achieved. Uhm. Wait. If you guys will visit Tony and Jackey, I suggest look for Ms. Daisy. She's my stylist.

Medium waves. Thanks to Tony and Jackey! :)

All Eyes On You

I can't think of a good title that will suffice this entry. Well my eyes are all on you. I could even start a fire and eventually melt an ice on you. (Ano raw?) I have not managed this blog for a long time. I thought of writing again to ease this boredom. 

Yes! Oh I mean no. I am unemployed for a month. But actually both good and bad feeling. I had finally took a rest since I started working even before I graduated--that's the good part. And the awful one is POVERTY. My savings are starting to be burned out. To think, Christmas is very soon. How about the parties that I often arrange? I'm still gonna attend on some but maybe, less budget on where are we gonna celebrate. But I have no problem with my high school buddies. Mababaw mga 'yun, we can just sleep over on someone's house, movie marathon and have simple exchange gifts.

I am eyeing for the job that I dreamt of ever since I was young. To Travel, To Write and To Meet People. All in one. That is to be a writer. :) I'm not gonna give up until I reach that dream. I can't just wait here, I should do something. You dream job, my eyes are all on you!

No Regrets. Just Pure Love.

I remember my first day in College. I wore my eyeglasses just to see a clear vision of my new surrounding. I approached the two young ladies in front of the door and asked them "Ab Comm din kayo?" And then the three of us entered the classroom. Beside me is a guy who is wearing a blue shirt. He sleeps in the class, I guess... he is a loner. So I took a glimpse in the other sides of the room. I saw many beautiful faces but how come I can't see a man who will catch my attention. Well, majority of the class are girls. No wonder.

On the next day, I still join the company of the two nice girls. Our first shared snack was superthin biscuit. We sat in the staircase near the L bldg. and started talking about our lives. I never thought that this would be the start of our friendship.They were just strangers and then instantly we can't last a day without each other. The chinita girl laughs like a witch, very irritating! While the other one is so reserved and quiet (noong una lang pala). Eventually, one was added in the group through a funny encounter. It's Comm Theory subject and that lady came in late. Fortunately, there is a vacant seat beside me. Then our conversation started this way:

She : May nakaupo dito?
Me : Wala. May assignment ka ba?
She : Ha? May assignment ba? Pakopya!
Me : Okay. (smiles)

Haha. I will never forget that moment. Imagine, we're not even close yet and she already copied assignment from me. This is truly a unique start of friendship! :) So buo na ang F4. We often visit the library not to read books... but to look at the pictures of the desserts and menus in the recipe books. There was a time when the librarian caught as laughing in the corner and we're screwed! We never came back in the library after that incident happened.

In the succeeding days, months and years, we met and lost friends. Each of us experienced heartbreaks, losses and felt affection and inspiration. But the happiest of all is having friends who help us grow as individuals and made us realize the blessing of true friendship.  Of course, I will not forget to mention the remaining six wonderful people that I met. This tall and dark man who's like a brother to me, the intelligent lady whom I never thought I will be close with, the humorist man who never fail to tease me and make me laugh, the stunning lady who calls me Ma, the serious type man who eventually get rid of his psp and the big man who made me feel real loved. :)

I'm also thankful for the other people who came into our lives. Even though we already have our own groups now, still, they became part of my College life.

So to my friends, this entry is for you. I didn't mention names but the description speaks for your identity. You are all the reason why I enjoyed going to school, why I don't want to miss a day of photoshoots and hangouts and why I love everything about my College life.  

Click the link below!

Friends I will forever cherish. :)

A Journey Through Holy Week

The past is always associated with the present. Almost all of the beliefs and actions we have practiced and lived with are basically learned from our ancestors. It was measured to be tenacity and a priori wherein Filipinos have followed a pattern of life, a culture, and a tradition.

The Philippines is known to be a Christian country, predominantly Roman Catholic. Practices are expected to be present and perceived especially in various seasons. Filipinos are thought to be adaptive in terms of living life and one proof is the way they celebrate the Holy week or Semana Santa.

Oh Holy Month
Holy Week is commemorated on the month of April. It venerates Christ’s death and resurrection. But, there could be a thin line between how people celebrate the Holy week from the past and present.

Before, children were summoned to stay at home and families prefer to spend the lenten season peacefully in their places than having a trip outside town. Cabs and other vehicles are rarely seen in the roads.

Nowadays, some Filipinos see Holy week as a week-long vacation. Instead of doing penitence and honoring Christ’s suffering from saving us from our sins, some tend to enjoy the week as an escape and relief from their busiest times in life.

But away from these differences, similarities don’t grow apart. In fact, there is much likeness than the divergence. Several modern day Filipinos still value the practices being inherited from the past.

Valuing the Past
During Holy week, different scenes could be witnessed and it starts with Palm Sunday. The congregation bring palm leaves or “palaspas” to church which is blessed by the priest before the mass starts. This commemorates the triumphal entry of Jesus to Jerusalem.

Next is Holy Monday, the beginning of the reading, “pabasa” or “pasyon”. This is a chant-like marathon of the poetic prayer-story of Jesus' life, passion, and death that begins from day until night.

Then on Maundy Thursday, people do the "Church Visit" or "Visita Iglesia"; it involves visiting several churches and pray the Stations of the Cross. It was believed that if it was your first time to do the “Church Visit”, your prayers and wishes would be answered.

Meanwhile, Good Friday is commemorated with solemn street processions, the way of the Cross, the commemoration of Jesus' seven last words and a passion-play called the Cenakulo. In some places, devotees would have themselves flagellated as a penance. Some would walk barefooted, whip themselves bloody with ropes and broken pieces of glass attached with strings to bamboo sticks and sometimes even have themselves nailed to crosses.

And lastly the Black Saturday or “Sabado de Gloria”. On this day, silence and solemnity is observed and business transactions are often entertained. Christians believe that the physical body of Jesus Christ is still resting in the Garden of Gethsemane. And when night comes, it paves way for the celebration of Easter.

Faith Not Broken

Easter Sunday is the resurrection of Jesus and the meeting of Jesus and Mary. Easter is also the culmination of the whole commemoration of Holy Week. In modern times, the mood is festive and people are busy preparing an Easter feast. Easter eggs and bunnies are the highlights of the event.

Today, Easter has become a metaphor for relief and celebration. After six days of repentance and penance, people look forward to parties and family gatherings. In some ways it is acceptable since the celebration gives value to life and is centered in the family.

But it is different in the past. In a “prusisyon”, church figures and saints are the main acts of the parade. Men and women are separated and divided into two different streets. Men follow the figure of Jesus while women follow Mary's. As they meet, all will hear the Holy Mass.

Observing Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, it is evident that people have their own ways of repenting, sacrificing, and rejoicing. Either way, Holy week is the time to remind ourselves of Christ's suffering and that He saved us from our sins and welcomed us into life's beauty.

The world has bountiful beliefs and traditions, hence, people should learn and value the past and re-live it properly in the present.

This is why I love Sundays. :)

I woke up this morning at around 8:30 am. I remember that my mom will go to the market to buy some goods to cook. I was surprised that my brother was already awake. Oftentimes, he would wake up late in the morning. But surprisingly, he was the one busy preparing our breakfast. While waiting for my brother's ala chowfan recipe, I made my coffee and toasted some bread. My bro loves to cook this dish, fried rice + sausage (sometimes hotdog/ ham) and then he cooked shanghai rolls for the toppings. While my brother is busy being a chef for this morning, my sister is still lying in the bed having a peaceful sleep. This is very usual. She often wake up late, actually, both of them. It just so happened that there came a miracle that my bro woke up earlier than the usual.

This is it! All done, I tasted my bro's morning recipe and it surely made me burp. Our dad was in the site for his work and mom just came home from the market. Bro reserved food for dad, 'cause he said that our dad left home with an empty stomach, so when he get home, he'll have something to eat. Finally, our eldest sister is awake. Just like the old times, after all of them have eaten their breakfast, it's time for me to wash the dishes. 

My sister helped mom in cleaning the stuffs she bought. She volunteered herself to cook for our lunch (one point for her, bro said jokingly). Since I am not doing anything at all, I thought of making a melon juice so that it would really be a happy eating.

So then our dad arrived, and it was exactly lunch time when I prepared the table and mom prepared some fruits for dessert. This day is really fun, I'm always looking forward for this day to come--watching television while having lunch together, chit-chats. They are all busy people and we get to have updates from each other every Sundays. It was only my mom whom I always told some stories on what's happening in my life. There was an instance that I told her a secret, but then also this day, she spilled it into the family. This laglagan happened while I'm washing the dishes. I didn't imagine that my siblings will react that way. Well, that's a secret for us to keep. Good that our dad was asleep that moment. 'Cause if he's not, I'm screwed and maybe that person too.  hahahaha.

Well. Well. I love this day, spaghetti for merienda + icecream+ cake. But take note, not a single person in the family celebrates his/her birthday today, Nada! We just want to eat. 

...so this is why I love Sundays. :)

Somewhere. Sometime.

Set the table for me. I'm ready to meet you.

It's 3 o'clock in the afternoon and I've got nothing to do. So I ended up writing something that will ease this boredom. I always have this sole time whenever the clock ticks at 3pm. My mom opens the store and my dad goes to his work. My siblings are often out for they have their own jobs. So I always have this tendency to spend time alone in our house. Somehow I find it good, this some time alone. But actually, I really don't like this feeling. Whenever I'm alone I tend to think of things which are not supposed to be thought. 

I can say that I'm blessed with a happy family. Although at times we experience problems, well that's normal. I'm the youngest, so it's not new that I'm always left at home. The mess are always left to be cleaned by the youngest. Oh My! But few months from now, I'm no longer staying long at home. I'll be soon looking for a job and when I already got one, I will surely give back to my parents. And of course, I would always like to make and spend time with my friends. Because if there are people who never left me and who had been there in my happiest and toughest times, they are my family and friends.

But then, I always find myself looking for something, for someone. That feeling when you know there is someone who loves you more than a friend, someone you would want to build a family with. That person is yet to be found. I don't know if I already met him or I just let him passed by or he is already here but I just didn't notice him. I really don't know... I would love to see his face, hold hands with him, spend time with him, get the chance to meet his family, and he meet mine. Go out on a date, hang out with our friends, watch a movie together, sing along, eat fishballs in the street, have some pictures together, and say I LOVE YOU to each other. 

I'm ready to meet that person. I might be hard to please, but hey, I'm not so hard to reach. I will take time until the day comes I will finally meet you. So see you somewhere, sometime. :)