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TRAVELOGUE: Norway, Sweden, and our 2025 European Class Reunion

2026-09-03T12:45:13.261-07:00

TRAVELOGUE: Norway, Sweden, and our 2025 European Class Reunion

August 25 through September 6, 2025

A year-late blog post.

One of my friends recently mentioned that she hadn't seen my blog post on my Norway trip last year, as I usually did after every trip. I guess I was too busy celebrating my retirement. But, in truth, I fell into a rabbit hole from my obsession with painting. The acrylics took over my life.

My friend is planning a European trip and wanted to know if it was worth visiting Norway. I nodded enthusiastically and even told her I could happily spend an inordinate amount of time at a sidewalk cafe with my cup of latte, watching people pass by. The ambiance was great, people enjoying their stroll, not hurrying like in New York. A sense of peace and contentment filled me, and I thought, "I could live here".

On our 45^th anniversary since graduating from the Arellano University College of Nursing, sixteen classmates (Cely, Ampy, Solly, Luz, Shirley, Yoly, Nenita, Lita, Amie, Alma, Janet, Mate, Jo, Ces, Louie, and Dori), with spouses and sisters, gathered in Norway for 4 days, then embarked on a cruise along the European coast via MSC Poesia Cruises, and landed in Sweden for a few days.

Here's my blog post on our class reunion party that I posted last year, where we reminisced, played games, shared family updates, and laughed so hard until we had tears in our eyes and probably almost had a sphincter leak: Reunion- 45 years later

NORWAY

For our class reunion, our classmate Alma and her husband, Homer, volunteered to plan the itinerary for the group’s 4-day stay in Norway. She had been in Oslo, the capital city, since we graduated from Nursing. I often wondered how fate brought us to different countries for our nursing careers. As much as I loved being a New Yorker, I am very envious of Norway’s universal health care and comprehensive social security system. The Norwegian government can afford it since it is the world's largest producer of oil and natural gas outside the Middle East.

Our group stayed at the Karl Johan Hotel, a historic 4-star boutique hotel with 160+ unique rooms (but no air conditioning), a glass rooftop, and a cozy lounge with a fireplace. The breakfast buffet was bountiful, with many Pinoy wait staff. Very convenient for its central location, right in the middle of the pedestrian walkway (was the hotel named for it or because of it?), near the train on one end and the Royal Palace at the other end of Karl Johan Gate road.

Oslo, nicknamed Tigerstaden, or "The Tiger City," hence the huge, mean-looking tiger in the middle of the town square. It is a vibrant capital and a haven for art and nature lovers, with historic buildings, quaint cafes, and cobblestone walkways.

The Royal Palace was impressive, with neoclassical architecture, Doric columns, and beautiful gardens. At the time of our visit, the royal family was in residence, so no tours were allowed inside the palace. The changing of the guard happens every 1:30pm.

It seems surreal that, as of this writing, a royal announcement was made that His Majesty King Harald passed away on August 28, 2026.

Akershus Fortress is one of Oslo's best attractions: a medieval castle that used to be a prison but was later converted into a home for royals. The huge estate has a cobblestone courtyard and lush grounds surrounded by fortress walls. No entrance fee needed.

Another landmark is the Oslo Opera House, with its striking geometric design inspired by icebergs and described as a “wave wall.”

The Munch Museum features paintings by Edvard Munch, a symbolist/expressionist painter known for his iconic works The Scream (1893) and Madonna (1894). We didn't have time to explore the art collection, but our group posed to recreate the agonized face in "The Scream."

Regrettably, I think we looked comical and didn't accurately convey Munch's intent to show "a profound experience of existential dread related to the human condition." In other words, the painting symbolized the anxiety of modern man. Ugh, I have seen similar faces when we received trauma alerts in our ERs.

On August 26, 2025, we visited the 340-acre Vigeland Sculpture Park in Frogner Park. It displays more than 200 sculptures by the prolific Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland; it’s the world’s largest sculpture park by a single artist. Would you believe that admission is free and it is open 24/7?

"The sculptures symbolize the entire journey and cycle of human life, including universal themes of birth, struggle, anger, joy, death, and eternity, all depicted in naked figures."

A 100-meter bridge features 58 bronze statues, including the famous Angry Boy stomping his foot as if in a tantrum. The fountain is supported by six giant figures and surrounded by 20 bronze tree groups to depict the human life cycle.

The Monolith sculpture is a grand visual masterpiece and stands 17 meters above ground. Carved from a single stone block, it features 141 sculpted human figures clinging together. The word "monolith" has been used to describe a massive group of people who are non-diverse, rigid, and unchanging in their outlook. Well, we are definitely not monoliths.

Our group was easy to spot: Baby Boomers in bright green shirts that doubled as a beacon for lost members. As in any large group, gathering everyone for the group photo was quite an undertaking. Thank you to the husbands and the sisters patiently clicking away to record the classmates’ antics. The three sisters (Bheng, Poleng, and Lucy) were enjoying their elder sisters' shenanigans.

The Holmenkollen Skating Arena is a world-famous Nordic skiing and ski-jumping facility and has hosted several World Ski Championships and the 1952 World Olympics.

The Oslo Fjord summer evening cruise- we feasted on a Norwegian prawn shrimp buffet during the 3-hour sail on a traditional wooden sailing ship, with a fascinating view of the harbor, the fortress, the Opera House, and the verdant hills on our fjord sightseeing. The music reflected our Baby Boomer generation. The husbands enjoyed their own reunion; in fact, they were even more enthusiastic about their photo ops, even using our alumni tarpaulin.

MSC BOAT CRUISE

We set sail on August 29 with MSC Cruises, stopping in Copenhagen, Denmark; Warnemünde, Germany; and Gdansk, Poland. I missed the excursion stops in Latvia and Lithuania because of my hip pain. The excursions serve as a teaser of what each country offers because the port stops allow only about 5 hours of exploration. This may seem to be a good idea if you want to return for a longer stay in whatever country you fancy. Otherwise, you may get stranded and will have to catch the ship at the next port stop.

On the ship, there are many amenities that can entertain anyone who stays onboard. Spas, swimming pools, boutiques, gyms, beauty salons, massage parlors, and endless food. We had the White Night Party and some theater shows. For dinner, the Pinoy chef cooked Sinigang na salmon and chicken adobo for us. It was my first time on a cruise. I enjoyed the sumptuous breakfast buffet, the fabulous service from the cabin crew, and the nightly dinner.

I heard of a woman who bought a 15-year lease on a cruise ship with all her meals covered, housekeeping and laundry services, and routine medical care. Uh-oh, not interested.

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

For this stop, my sister Bheng and I opted to take an excursion bus to Dragor, the most famous historic fishing village near Copenhagen. We walked through cobblestone streets by the scenic harbors with small fishing boats. The iconic 18th- and 19th-century yellow houses had red tiles or thatched roofs. From the harbor, we could see the bridge and the Swedish coast. As a surprise, the tour company treated us to delicious Danish bread and coffee.

Copenhagen, “City of Spires”, is known for the spires and church towers that dot the horizontal skyline. Nyhavn is a 17th-century waterfront and entertainment district lined with brightly colored townhouses, wooden ships, restaurants, and lively cafes on each side of the canal.

A must-see attraction is the iconic Little Mermaid statue, a bronze statue by Edvard Eriksen. The statue is based on the 1837 fairy tale of Danish author Hans Christian Andersen about a mermaid who sacrificed her voice to become human. In 1989, Disney made the movie and named the little mermaid Ariel.

The sculpture sits on a rock by the waterside. I don’t know what kind of security the Langelinie promenade has, but the statue has been vandalized numerous times over the years. First, political rebels sawed off the statue's head, and it had to be replaced. The new head was decapitated again, but thankfully recovered.

WARNEMÜNDE and ROSTOCK, GERMANY

Warnemünde is one of the busiest German port towns on the Baltic Sea, and serves as a gateway to Rostock and Berlin. For this tour, my sister Bheng and I paired with Ampy and her husband Ofre to explore Warnemunde together. We hired an enthusiastic cab driver who negotiated a reasonable price to bring us to the tourist stops.

Schwerin Castle, located on a small island southeast of the old town, is regarded as one of the most important works of Romantic historicism in Europe for its picturesque, scenic viewpoints. The castle was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2024.

A fairy-tale setting on Lake Schwerin, with a majestic gold-domed building that formerly housed German dukes but is now a museum and the seat of the state parliament. The expansive, manicured gardens (Schlossgarten), designed in a mix of French and English styles, feature woodland paths, quiet canals, romantic bridges, and lush spaces that invite selfies and group photos. My favorite is the stunning “tunnel of greenery”. I later learned it is also called a "Laubengang." In English, it's a pergola, pleached tree tunnel, or green arbor.

Next, our driver drove us to the beautiful medieval town of Rostock. We strolled through the main street and Market Square with the pastel colored houses with gabled roofs and timbered facades.

GDANSK, POLAND

Gdańsk is a city on the Baltic coast of northern Poland, and the capital of the Pomeranian Voivodeship, Poland's sixth-largest city and its major seaport. This is where World War II began, and it was rebuilt to its new grandeur at the end of the war, when Poland’s democracy movement was born.

This beautiful historic center is now adorned with Baroque, Dutch Renaissance, and Gothic buildings, along with colorful houses with gabled roofs and ornate facades.

Gdansk is the world capital of amber, the “Gold of the North.” The Museum of Amber exhibits the fascinating history of amber mining, which began in the 19th century. Amber is fossilized tree resin that early Europeans highly regarded. In Greek mythology, amber represented the tears of the Heliades sisters when their brother was killed by Zeus. The Vikings revered amber as a sacred stone, while the Slavs regarded it as the sun.

Amber comes in all shades of yellow, brown, red, and white, but the most common is honey-orange. It is mostly used as jewelry, but has also been used by Fabergé (as in those fabulous eggs crafted for the Russian tsars) and Salvador Dalí.

I remember amber as that precious preservative for ancient dinosaurs. Just like in Jurassic Park, where the scientists extracted dinosaur DNA from amber resin of mosquitoes that bit T-Rex.

SWEDEN

Sweden is the largest and most populous Nordic country, the twelfth-richest country in the world in terms of gross domestic product per capita. It was home to Greta Garbo, Ingrid Bergman, and Bjorn Borg, Astrid Lindgren (author of Pippi Longstocking), and the birthplace of IKEA ready-to-assemble furniture and Swedish meatballs. But indisputably, its greatest export is ABBA.

My must-see attraction is the ABBA Museum in Stockholm. I included Swedish pop songs in my musical soundtrack in my younger years. The group (Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad) won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974 with their song Waterloo.

The ABBA Museum is an interactive museum where you can fulfill your secret fantasy to be the 5^th member of this legendary group and record yourself singing your favorite ABBA song.

We took the HOHO (Hop-on, Hop-off) bus to the ABBA Museum. We went inside the recording booth to sing along to ABBA. Never mind that we're off-key; who cares. Karaoke time at the ABBA Museum. We are the Dancing Queens. Bucket item checked off!!! Initially, it was just the four of us in the booth, then a few more classmates joined us.

The Old Town is the oldest part of Stockholm and another go-to destination, and it still has architectural beauty, with charming boutiques and cafes.

The AUCN reunion was definitely a memorable experience for all of us. A once-in-a-lifetime event.

Travelogue: Boston, Massachusetts Road Trip

2026-08-28T21:28:15.839-07:00

Travelogue: Boston, Massachusetts

Aug. 22-25, 2026

The family decided to stay local for our August vacation; we weren’t in the mood to fly anywhere, so we chose historic Boston, another urban jungle like my beloved New York City. My sister Bheng, Jordan, and I shared a room, and my sister-in-law Nel and her daughters Charlene and Camille shared another room at the MidTown Hotel by Sonesta. It had been exactly two months since my brother passed away, so the road trip was part of our healing. It was time to create more memories.

Boston, the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Massachusetts, is the cultural and financial center of New England, a region of the Northeastern United States. It is a 3-hour, 27-minute drive from Queens, so we planned stops along coastal Connecticut.

Boston is near major universities like Harvard, MIT, and Tufts, in the cities of Cambridge and Somerville, known as the Brainpower Triangle. I even bought a “Wicked Smaaht” Boston T-shirt, which was meant to be spoken with the Boston accent, dropping the ‘r’. Do you know that “wicked" is a regional intensifier meaning "very"? Quite coincidental that we watched the Broadway show “Wicked” the day after we returned to New York.

Boston has many medical and research facilities (Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston Children's Hospital, Dana–Farber Cancer Institute, and Joslin Diabetes Center).

ITINERARY

I’m impressed by how the “Kids” (I know they’re grown, yeah) exerted so much effort to vet the tour stops and research the restaurants. Jordan created a whole spreadsheet of potential attractions and restaurants, with the girls suggesting a few, complete with popular menu items, but the adults just gave up and told them, "We'll go wherever you want to go."

No ChatGPT chart, but real-deal travel plans with travel coordinates figured out. Typical Millennials and Gen Z’s. I am 100% sure that they studied as hard in College, right? They just chuckled mysteriously at this question.

ATTRACTIONS

Duck Tours- part bus/part boat, an amphibious vehicle that drives down a ramp into the Charles River. This is easily the most enjoyable excursion we had. The Duck Tours traverse historical landmarks and unique neighborhoods that make Boston a city of firsts, the birthplace of freedom, and the “Cradle of Liberty” because of its role in the American Revolution. The 80-minute tour includes the 20-minute river ride.

The conDUCKtours certainly made it fun. We were lucky to have the delightful and unforgettable Papriqqa (double Q), a vivacious lady with multi-colored braids, a wicked sense of humor, extensive knowledge of her dear Boston, and a great memory for names. She got some volunteers to steer the boat as we descended into the Charles River, with the view of the Boston and Cambridge skylines. She was certainly popular, as several tourists on the street waved at her. She also got us to yell "Quack, quack" on cue. My son said I was too enthusiastic. She taught us how to pronounce "Harvard"", and also demonstrated several heart signs that younger kids had shared with her.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

25 Evans Way, Boston, MA 02115

This art museum was founded in 1903 by Isabella Stewart Gardner, an American Art collector, patron of the arts, and philanthropist. Her collection included 7500 paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and decorative arts. Her will strictly detailed instructions on how to display her art.

I was thrilled to be surrounded by great art from Rembrandt, Michelangelo, Botticelli, Degas, Whistler, Raphael, and Titian.

The central courtyard is a photo-op opportunity with rotating seasonal floral displays and lush foliage. The 6-foot-tall starry blue-and-white chimney bellflowers are breathtaking.

Boston Public Library-

McKim Building at 700 Boylston Street in Copley Square

Opened in 1852, this is the first free, publicly funded municipal library in America with over 20 million items (books, maps, manuscripts) on display. The architecture is spectacular; it almost felt like a grand European palace with massive stone arches, a grand staircase, and stunning murals by John Sargeant and de Chavannes. There are collections of watercolors and drawings by Thomas Rowlandson and some early editions of Shakespeare.

I am a bibliophile, so I can imagine myself spending hours and hours in libraries like this and, of course, the New York Library.

Boston Garden

The first public botanical garden in America, this is an oasis in the midst of the urban jungle with beautifully manicured lawns and seasonal trees and flowers. With benches facing the pond, we enjoyed people-watching as all kinds of people promenaded along the path, some with dogs, and some with children. Near the pond, some ducks promenaded too, probably watching people too. It’s funny that they also poop on the grass, with some lifting their back leg.

For $15 a person, you can also ride the Swan boat for a 15-minute ride around the pond.

Elephant Migration Exhibit

Along Commonwealth Avenue (from Arlington Street to Fairfield Street in Back Bay)

This free public art exhibit features 100 life-sized elephant sculptures along Commonwealth Avenue from August 8 through September 13, 2026. They are on a global journey from East to West in the United States; they stopped in New York last year.

Indigenous artisans from Southern India made the anatomically accurate wood sculptures from a repurposed invasive plant called Lantana camara.

“The Great Elephant Migration is a global fundraising adventure to amplify Indigenous knowledge and inspire the human race to share space.”

https://thegreatelephantmigration.org/

And yes, since this is a fundraiser, you can buy the elephants (Calf, Adolescent, Matriarch, or Tusker) for prizes ranging from $8,500 to $ 22,500. Sorry, the calves are sold out.

Other attractions:

Acorn Street in the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood- famous for its IG-worthy pictures of charming, picturesque Federal-style brick row houses, original cobblestone streets, antique cast-iron street lanterns, colorful doors, and vibrant floral window boxes. It is cited as the most photographed street in the United States.

Freedom Trail- I opted out of this 2.5-mile hike, but my niece Charlene (a history buff) powered through with the journey on an audio-guided tour. The walking tour, marked by a distinctive red line starting from Acorn Street, passed through16 significant historical sites, each telling the story of America’s illustrious past and quest for independence.

Piers Park-

This beautifully landscaped park features a 600-foot pedestrian promenade with a waterfront view of the Boston skyline. Sorry, Boston, nothing beats the Manhattan skyline.

FOOD TRIPS

Travel affords us the luxury and the excuse to enjoy the local restaurants. No fast food restaurants for us. If you look up the definition of “foodie” online, you might see my son’s and nieces’ names. They treat our food trips as adventures, as experiences to try new dishes, flavors, and cooking styles from various cultures. The way these young ones plan their food trips, you would think you're going on an important mission for the country.

Here’s a list of the restaurants we tried:

1. GG at Home, Niantic, Connecticut. A quick stop with delicious sandwiches and baked goods. However, rain prevented us from exploring the beachwalk.

2. Yunnan Kitchen- authentic Chinese cuisine from the Yunnan province. Great ambiance.

3. Mahaniyom- Thai food. Awarded the Michelin's Bib Gourmand and Northeast Cities Exceptional Cocktails Award. Served tapa-style, the food was great, especially beef massaman, pomelo salad, and chive cakes.

4. Lolita Fort Point- modern Mexican-inspired cuisine. The décor is a little odd for me, with red candelabras and skulls for vases. The pink cotton candy was a surprise treat.

5. Saltie Girl- a chic, nautical-yet-contemporary atmosphere. My favorites are clam chowder, pistachio tiramisu, lobster roll, fried artichoke, and the caviar dip. A little pricey.

6. Jana Grill, Watertown, MA- Easily our favorite of the restaurants. They serve Mediterranean, Armenian, Lebanese. and Georgian cuisines. We demolished the food right after it was served. The Assorted Khorovats & Losh-Kebab Plate served on a charcuterie board was the best.

7. Kuya Jay’s Ube Café, Somerville, MA. An unexpected trip out of Boston into Somerville to find the Ube café. The open market that we were planning to go to closed early. The café's co-owner, an Italian husband of a Filipina, was enthusiastic about the food in the Philippines. He was quite exuberant about Filipino culture and expressed his desire to expand Filipino food culture here in Boston. He said he has many non-Filipino customers who could not believe how food as purple as it was could taste so good. I loved the Ube Macchiato. We also met a family bringing their daughter to start her studies to become a lawyer at Harvard. Very impressive. The father said he had to delay his retirement to support her daughter’s studies since the family lived all the way in California.

Of course, the trip would not be complete without driving by Harvard University, the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Its prominent alumni include former Presidents Barack Obama and John F. Kennedy. Noted dropouts include Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg.

My Bucket-list Concert Reviews

2026-08-19T11:14:12.419-07:00

Bucket-list Concert Wishes

A few years ago, I listed several concert wishes on my Bucket list. Goals manifested, thank God. Prayers answered. In the past three years, I watched Andre Rieu, Jin of BTS at his solo concert, and BTS on their comeback tour.

André Rieu is a Dutch violinist and conductor who founded the Johann Strauss Orchestra in 1987. “Rieu's concerts are more than just musical performances - they are experiences full of emotion, joy, and community. He brings people of all ages and cultures together to enjoy the sheer beauty of music. With his positive personality and humorous manner, he has managed to modernize the classical music scene and imbue it with a fresh, vivacious vibe.”, as written on his website. So very true.

BTS is actually the biggest musical group in the world right now. They are a global phenomenon. They are so successful that they represent roughly 0.3% of their country's total Gross Domestic Product.

The BTS supergroup released their new album on March 20, 2026, to huge critical and popular acclaim. They broke major streaming records in the US with their latest album and the biggest group debut of 2026 on Billboard. The group held free concerts in South Korea before embarking on a global sold-out tour across North America, South America, Australia, and Asia, including the Philippines; their last concert will be in Manila in March 2027.

Grammy What?

Seven men from South Korea whose music transcended the label of Asian pop and have recently opted out of the Grammys because they prefer their music to be "heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language". They are topping international charts, have collaborated with other global singers, have broken streaming records, and are massively famous across all social media. Surely they deserve to compete in the Main categories, not be contained or limited to just an Asian category?

BTS Arirang concert, August 2, 2026

MetLife Stadium, New Jersey

Let me begin my superlatives: the most amazing, most invigorating, and, due to the adrenaline, most exhausting. The sold-out Aug. 2 BTS concert at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey was the loudest concert I ever attended; the whole stadium was shaking, and the floors beneath me were vibrating as the ARMY jumped and sang along through the set list. The 80,000-strong crowd stood the whole time, except for the short breaks.

Thank you to Debbie and her daughter Camille for convincing me to shell out money so I wouldn't be watching from the very rear. At least, we wore our BTS jerseys with our biases' names on the back, with matching clear bags.

RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook returned as a group after their military duties in South Korea. This comeback, after 4 years, is unprecedented in how the world welcomed them with a smash album and sold-out concerts. The New York Times declared, “BTS is possibly the biggest act in the world since Michael Jackson."

The two-and-a-half-hour show went by very fast; BTS's frenetic dances and the dancers were matched by the crowd as we jumped and swayed, our matchsticks turning the whole stadium purple. The stage was spectacular, inspired by Korean architecture, with an open layout providing 360-degree visibility, and an amazing fireworks display at the end. The massive screens zoomed in on the smooth, poreless faces of the BTS members to the audience's delight, especially when my Jin winked at the camera.

The setlist included most of the songs in their latest album “Arirang”, but there were also classic songs that even the newest fans would know, like “Dynamite”, Butter, and the explosive “Mic Drop”. BTS also gets to try out two surprise songs each show that their DJ would choose for them; perhaps a way to tease the fans and remind them that BTS has a massive discography of songs since they debuted in 2013.

I felt inadequate when I couldn't sing the lyrics verbatim. My friends sat two rows in front of me. The ladies on both sides of me knew the lyrics to almost every song, even the Korean lyrics to Mic Drop, Fire, and the folk song Arirang (shivers when the whole audience turned Korean for a moment). At least, I knew the fan chant and could do a few choreographies on Dynamite, Idol, and Swim. I didn't take any selfies, but I took so many videos that were unfortunately marred by my off-key singing and vigorous jumping.

I loved the massive smash-up of “Fire” and “FYA,” and the siren voice in “Like Animal.” “Body to Body” morphed into the traditional folk anthem "Arirang". Billboard asked, "How many artists could pull off having a room of thousands serenade them with a traditional folk song in the crowd’s non-native language? “Into the Sun” was a perfect ending for a perfect show.

Jin is still my ultimate bias, but those 6 other men are my bias-wreckers. Ugh, one concert is not enough. I am now going through PCD (post-concert depression).

Yeah, they do not need a Grammy. They've transcended it. It felt good to sing "Aliens" and "Not Today." “All the underdogs in the world/ A day may come when we lose/ But it is not today/ Today, we fight.”

JIN of BTS, July 30, 2025

Prudential Center, New Jersey

When someone asked me what the first thing I would do when I retire would be, I answered without hesitation that I would attend Jin's upcoming solo concert in New Jersey. This Jin concert is my retirement gift to myself.

Fresh from his discharge from the military after 18 months of service, Jin threw himself into keeping the BTS name alive while the other members were still fulfilling their commitment. Jin held a hugathon with his fans, carried the Olympic torch in the Paris Olympics, co-starred in a Netflix variety show (Kian's Bizarre B&B), launched his solo variety web series, participated in fashion events, and released two albums.

Jin’s solo world tour, the RUNSEOKJIN_EP. TOUR, was quite unique, nothing like any other concert I’ve seen where the stars would just perform their songs. The concert showcased his top-tier vocal talent, but also his delightful sense of humor and personality, not afraid to be both silly and sexy at the same time. The show was widely acclaimed by critics, and as 20,000 fans cheered loudly and energetically at the Prudential, it was quite obvious that this show was not traditional, but infused with that charming personality. Simply Jin.

Rolling Stone UK gave him a five-star review for the London show and hailed him as “a one-of-a-kind entertainer who brilliantly blended high-energy pop-rock vocals, live band instrumentation, and interactive variety-show comedy with his fans.”

Jin was simply excellent; he didn't phone in his performance, but gave it his all, with bulging neck veins and deltoids, too. Mr. WorldWide Handsome winked, smirked sexily, and blew us his trademark kiss.

Jin skillfully engaged the fans with audience challenges like Sing Along ARMY, Connect ARMY, then donned an Alien costume to sing the surprising hit with the viral dance challenge, “Super Tuna”, then proceeded to tease/bully the fans with their version of the high-pitched song “Moon”.

The songs were culled from his back-to-back mini-albums “Happy” and "Echo” with additional songs from BTS like “Dynamite”, “Butter”, “Mikrokosmos”, and the emotional “Spring Day” which the fans continued to sing the chorus long after Jin stopped singing.

For someone so conservative, he teased his fans by showing his shoulders, then finally shed his coat and gifted us his Dorito-like physique. His voice was steady, even with all the running on the stage; I would have huffed and puffed. My sister swooned at his majestic image; I screamed much louder, wielding my BTS Army lightstick in tempo. The audience was energetic and sang mostly off-key (oh, that was me).

Jin carried his solo concert with aplomb, with no choreography, except for Super Tuna. He brought the concept of his TV series RunSeokJin with his hilarious games and fan interactions.

My favorite tracks: Epiphany (this song got me into BTS), I Will Come to You (Jin on the piano, flawless voice), Nothing Without Your Love (because he took his jacket off), Rope It (who'd think he'd go Country?), and Astronaut, which he sang lying down (just because). What the heck, I loved all his songs.

“I Will Come to You” is a poignant ballad sung by Jin with gentle and yearning emotion. He wrote it while he was on military duty. He came back and fulfilled his promise to the BTS Army after his military discharge.

ANDRE RIEU, Sept. 18, 2023,

UBS Arena, New York

"Volare!" Oops, I didn't even realize I was singing loudly until my other seatmate gave me the side-eye. Andre Rieu and his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra in concert!!! Bucket list item checked.

Never mind that instead of an open-air concert under the glittering Austrian skies with the majestic Schonbrunn Palace in the background, the venue is the UBS Arena in Elmont, NY, and my "sky" is the NY Islanders banners in the rafters. But as soon as the music started last night, I just imagined that I was in a more magical place. The vivid, spectacular backing screen and the elaborate costumes of historical romances created an ambiance you don't see at grungy metal rock concerts. The music was still the same joyous celebration: classical music mixed with pop hits, waltzes, movie soundtracks, and rousing, foot-stomping gospel.

Andre is a consummate showman, and even at 73, he cut a dashing figure as he played the violin, conducted the orchestra, and hammed it up with the audience. My favorite parts were many. I loved the 102-year-old veteran who played the saxophone; I was teary-eyed as Andre introduced the young soldiers (now veterans) who liberated Holland. The enthusiastic crowd sang along to "I Will Follow Him"; if you heard my voice in the recording, I apologize.

The three sopranos sang a beautiful rendition of "The Rose", the tender, melancholic rendition of the Amanda McBroom composition, made famous by Bette Midler in her 1979 film. The clarinetist/bagpiper Manoe provided comic relief; the camaraderie between her and Andre was a joy to watch.

As Andre himself predicted, the aisles filled out with dancing couples who waltzed as the iconic masterpiece "Blue Danube" played. How romantic.

The Modern King of Waltz delivered a grand, spectacular, and fantabulous production. Even my Gen Z niece Charlene loved the show.

I have done my share of concerts over the years, mostly Filipino singers like Lea Salonga, Marcelito Pomoy, and the REO Brothers.

There are more items on my Bucket list: Pink, Bruno Mars, Andrea Bocelli, Morisette Amon, and SB-19.

Remembering my brother Cesar

2026-07-10T21:57:51.054-07:00

It has taken me a while to sit down and write my tribute about my brother, Cesar, or Toto, as we call him. I have accepted the fact that he has passed, and even though I am comforted that he is no longer suffering, the ache in my heart remains. I am thankful that he remained a member of the Church of Christ (Iglesia ni Cristo) to the very end.

His family (wife, Ronilda, and daughters, Camille and Charlene) is doing well, but I know they still cry at times. Who wouldn’t? My siblings (Edwin, Allan, and Bheng) and my son Jordan are still grieving. I still see him in my mind and feel him in my heart. There are still random moments when my tears just flow, a memory catching me by surprise.

In the family of two sisters and three brothers born to Cezar and Marina Cerrudo (both deceased), he was the eldest boy. The quietest one, but as he'd shown with his Master's degree in Economics from De La Salle University and his job as a computer programmer at the Philippine Central Bank, he was also smart. He was into chess, Jeopardy, and trivia. He immigrated with his family to New York in 1998. He was a deacon and group overseer in the Iglesia ni Cristo, Forest Hills locale.

We are thankful to have been there at his bedside at the last minute. He fought a good fight, both as a dialysis patient for 5 years and in his last valiant fight in the ICU at Queens Hospital. He passed away on June 22, 2026, at the age of 65. He would have been 66 years old on July 14, 2026.

Cesar Cerrudo, Jr Obituary

My sister-in-law Nel spoke about Cesar at the funeral, "I want to thank God for the strength He continuously gives us... I just want to mention some good traits of Cesar, especially to those who do not know him personally. I want to tell everyone that my husband was a good man... kind-hearted. For 34 years of our marriage, I have never known anyone who was wronged or cheated by him. Not only was he a good man, but he was also a good cook! He cooked pancit and spaghetti better than me."

Grieving is an individual process, and for our mental health, we cope differently. My catharsis is writing about it to release pent-up emotions, to support healing, and to put into words what I could not articulate at his interment. I wanted a tangible way to remember him. I choose to honor and celebrate him and to commemorate the good times.

This is how I will remember my brother Cesar.

I will remember that naughty smile, always a smirk, with his twinkling eyes, as if he was getting ready with his dad jokes. Corny they were, but sometimes his deadpan delivery made us smile, and sometimes laugh out loud.

I will remember that his favorite word to annoy the family was Secret” when we were asking questions. So, whenever he tried to eavesdrop while we were giggling about make-believe gossip, we told him, “Secret.”

I will remember how he loved to sing karaoke, with his two favorite songs by Martin Nievera and Marco Sison. He always scored 100% in karaoke; I believe it’s because he sang those songs loudly.

I will remember how we both cheered for the New York Mets, him carrying his passion for them through the very end. We chose his funeral flowers, orange and blue, to represent his love for the Mets.

I will remember how he cooked his chicken adobo ad nauseum. In fairness, he cooked really well. I will remember the quiet ways he loved his family; his love language was food, so he was the cook of the house, until he couldn’t anymore.

I will remember how he tried to perform his duties as a deacon and as a group overseer in the Iglesia ni Cristo, until he couldn’t because of his chronic kidney condition requiring dialysis.

I was two years older than him, and, like regular siblings, we always had our petty fights, trying to outsmart each other. I will miss that, but I will not miss how he came home after dialysis feeling weak, dizzy, and nauseous. I will not miss how he stopped making dad jokes in the last month. I will not miss how he cried when he could not go home for my mother's funeral when she passed in 2024.

I wish I was a little more patient, a little kinder, a little more caring, all the "shoulda, coulda, woulda", but I hope he knows that we all love him. He has seen how we advocated for him while he was in the hospital, asking questions and pushing for more.

We comfort ourselves with the thought that he fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. As we navigate our lives without him, those left behind will need to take care of one another. I know that the Almighty God will give us the strength. I am praying that his memories live on, and that we remember him with a smile in our hearts.

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal."- Richard Puz

Travelogue: Day trips from Queens- Storm King, Briermere Farms, Harbes Orchard, Branch Brook Park, Untermyer Gardens, Wave Hill, Sleepy Hollow, Lavender by the Bay

2026-06-16T13:03:47.872-07:00

Have car, will travel. A quick day trip away from the skyscrapers and the busy sidewalks is a vacation in itself. It is an intentional getaway to recharge your batteries. I would not dare call it a digital detox because I do use my phone to capture beautiful scenery for posterity.

Maybe, when there is time for a longer staycation by the beach with no tight itinerary, and I can disengage from my trusty Samsung, that would be great. In the meantime, these day trips feed my heart and soul.

Storm King Art Center, Orange County, New York

Oct. 28, 2024, 1h 19m from Queens

The vibrant autumn colors at the Storm King Art Center are a perfect backdrop for large-scale contemporary outdoor sculptures as they rise majestically up into the sky, dwarfing all the humans. It is absolutely worth the trip.

This past Saturday, throngs of people descended on this 500-acre open-air museum in New York's Hudson Valley, home to the largest collection of contemporary outdoor sculptures in the United States by renowned artists like Maya Lin, Alexander Calder, and Mark di Suvero. It was peak season for the Autumn leaves to reign supreme. The tram ride takes you to all different stops where you can hop on and off to explore and hike the trails.

Some of the sculptures are difficult to discern, so you can create stories about these different works of art in bronze, metal, and aluminum. I did not avail myself of the audio guide. My imagination ran away with my interpretation of the sculpture: I saw intussusception, a dog, a Trojan horse, an elephant, R2D2, and Squiggles. No disrespect intended.

The "Luba" by Ursula von Rydingsvard resembles a petrified tree. This is a cedar-wood sculpture with cast bronze and graphite. Interesting fact: my son knows her late husband, to whom this sculpture is dedicated.

My favorite is "Fallen Sky," an artful rendition of spherical stainless steel pieces embedded in the earth, nestled in a hole left by an uprooted tree.

The five Ionic stone pillars (salvaged from an old mansion along the Hudson River) stood like a vanguard on the crest of the hill, where you could see the vast display of sculptures. It's my second time seeing these pillars, but they continue to mesmerize me as I imagine myself as a queen greeting my loyal subjects. Yeah, I know, delusions of grandeur. And my self-mandated foliage pictures, ✔️ checked.

Briermere Farm and Harbes Orchard in Long Island's North Fork area

Sept. 21, 2024- 1.5-hour drive from Queens

Day trip to Briermere Farm, Harbes Orchard, and Greenport in Long Island, New York. Our last summer hurrah before Autumn comes. Briermere Farm is a fruit farm and bakery with a long line of people lured by the sweet aroma of cookies, bread, and pies (fresh blueberry cream, raspberry peach, and cherry cream). You will gain weight just inhaling the aroma of the baked goods. The farm also had a colorful display of sunflowers and exotic flowers (I don't know their names) that beckoned me. The visuals and the aromas trigger my serotonin.

Then, just a few minutes away is the Harbes Orchard, a pleasant, family-friendly farm with your pick of apples: Fuji, honey crisps, Gala, and Granny Smiths. The farm also offers pumpkin picking and a Robin Hood–themed corn maze, kids’ activities, and live music from 12–5 on weekends and holidays. There was open seating and live music, with apple-cider doughnuts.

We also explored Greenport, a waterfront community in Suffolk County on the North Fork of Long Island. The New York Times labeled the village as a low-key alternative to the Hamptons. Nothing was low-key this weekend, with the tourists enjoying the street fairs, live music, and the yachts and boats at the marina. We later learned that there was a Maritime festival and parade, and that explained the men and women dressed as pirates and mermaids. It was a fun time.

Branch Brook Park, New Jersey

April 7, 2024, 47-minute drive from Queens

Branch Brook Park in New Jersey is home to over 5,300 flowering cherry blossom trees in 18 varieties, more than Washington, D.C. It was the annual Cherry Blossoms Festival when we visited, and throngs of people descended to celebrate the rites of Spring with a breathtaking explosion of colors, from snow white to baby pink to vibrant pink.

Spring is my second favorite season. Nature is awakening after hibernating in winter. A rebirth, new beginnings. Flowers are blooming, the birds are chirping, the days are longer, and the nights are shorter.

As Charles Dickens said, "It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot, and the wind blows cold, when it is summer in the light and winter in the shade." It is already April, but the flowers are still in bloom. And what better way to end the day than to go to Max's Restaurant?

Untermyer Gardens Conservancy in Yonkers, Westchester County

Oct. 28, 2023, 1-hour drive from Queens

This time, we didn't have to travel far to see the Fall foliage. The Untermyer Gardens Conservancy in Yonkers, Westchester County, is a historic 43-acre public city park (free admission and parking) offering breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the Palisades.

Those with knee and hip problems should beware, but it was all worth the minor aches and pains if you want to do some gorgeous photo shoots. We saw a lot of pre-nups, pre-baby pictorials, and probably an occasional TikTokker. The Temple of Love, featuring a rock-and-stream garden and a small waterfall, evokes a fairy-tale setting.

The Vista is a must-see. The descending 136-step staircase leads you down to the Overlook, where two majestic Roman marble columns frame the spectacular scenery. I will not pretend that I walked down those steps (hehehe). Jordan said it was really nice to walk down between the trees, with just a glimpse of the columns, and then, when he got to the bottom of the steps beyond the canopy of the trees, voilà, the panorama was dramatically stunning (hence the name). Like unwrapping a gift.

The Walled Garden was closed due to a private event (darn), a Halloween event featuring people arriving in costumes. There was a pregnant lady, or was it just a fake belly hanging out like it was ready to burst?

We ended up at the Hapag Filipino Restaurant in Yonkers. No pineapple juice for me, but the food was yummy: Sinigang na pork, tortang talong with corned beef, Ukoy without shrimp, and yes, taho (silken tofu, sago or tapioca pearls, and a simple brown sugar syrup).

Wave Hill Public Garden and Cultural Center in the Bronx

May 29, 2023, 34-minute drive from Queens

Wonderful afternoon spent at the Wave Hill public garden and cultural center in the Riverdale neighborhood of the Bronx. It is an oasis tucked away in the Hudson Hill section of Riverdale with a spectacular view of the Hudson River and the Palisades.

This 28-acre garden boasts a pergola overlooking the Hudson, surrounded by magnificent trees and flowers, creating a horticultural paradise featuring an alpine house, greenhouses, and a cultural center. If you’re a birdwatcher, there are 127 species of birds, including ruby-throated hummingbirds, great blue herons, and bald eagles.

This last-minute trip is such a revelation to me. I have lived here in New York since 1983, and yet I am still discovering some gems, a peaceful escape, in my own city.

Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown, New York

Oct. 23, 2022- 45-minute drive from Queens

We went for the Fall colors and the Hudson River, perfect ambiance for self-reflection.

Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown are adjacent villages in Westchester County along the eastern bank of the Hudson River.

Sleepy Hollow, formerly named North Tarrytown, officially changed its name in 1996 after Washington Irving’s classic 1820 story, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. It is a charming town with a reputation for being spooky, especially during Halloween, for the Headless Horseman.

Tarrytown is the cultural hub, with local boutiques and children’s bookstores along Main Street. The Lyndhurst estate is a Gothic Revival house that serves as a filming location for The Gilded Age.

Lavender by the Bay, Calverton, Long Island

July 5, 2021, 1 hour and 15 minutes from Queens

Happiness is... celebrating nature's beauty amid fields of lavender blooms, with the clear blue sky above and the aromatic breeze calming heart and soul. The fragrance fills the air and cleanses my spirit. Lavender is calming, as scientific studies have shown that the natural compounds linalool and linalyl acetate interact directly with the nervous system to lower cortisol levels. No wonder these multi-purpose perennial lavender plants are widely used for aromatherapy. Doing my Ujjayi breathing in a field of lavender.

The best month to visit a lavender farm is July, with the massive French lavender fields at their vibrant peak.

I wanted to end the day at the Purple Yam restaurant, but it was closed for the holiday. I had to settle for the purple Ube ice cream.

Travelogue: St. Croix Vacation, Life in the Left Lane

2026-05-22T12:23:15.428-07:00

Travelogue- St. Croix vacation

Aug. 10-14, 2023. Our family headed out to St. Croix, the largest of the US Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. A much-needed vacation. Self-care activity to recharge and rejuvenate.

Aug. 10, 2023, Day 1-

Current temperature: 86 degrees Fahrenheit in St. Croix, an island in the Caribbean Sea, and a county and constituent district of the United States. Population: 41, 004, as per the 2020 US census. It is actually passport-free travel for American citizens. Known for its white sand beaches, historical landmarks, sorbet-colored buildings, and the surrounding reef to snorkel and scuba-dive (not that I have the courage to go in the water beyond 5 feet). During cruise ship stops, a flock of tourists descends onto the island. Thankfully, the island was less crowded when we came.

The people and even the chickens are friendly. Even met a young Filipina who is now part of the vibrant Pinoy community here. Dinner at "El Leon" was a great end to the day, especially the bone marrow and sweetened corn. Yummy.

August 11, 2023, Day 2.

The Shake and Bake Day, aboard the speedboat Adventure to Buck Island, a 20-minute ride from St. Croix. Fortunately, I did not get motion sickness even though the waves rocked our boat. Must be due to the cool sea breeze or the soothing yacht-rock music of Jimmy Buffett and "Kokomo". Unfortunately, my sister and I both were not bold enough to go underwater to snorkel, not when we could not touch the bottom. As usual, Jordan had a great time snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea. I was brave enough to go ziplining and let a snake wrap around my neck on previous vacations, but not to snorkel or scuba-dive. Ingesting seawater is a deterrent for me.

But island life is good for the soul. Time stands still when you're basking in the Caribbean sun, not even worrying that my skin would turn crispy brown.

Great Cruzan food and friendly locals (and those ubiquitous chickens). I just hope that the sweating walking around would balance out my weight gain from the rich Cruzan food. Lunch at "Cruzian Bayou" and dinner at "Rum Runners". No fast food restaurants here, thank God. There are different spellings of the local food: Cruzan, Crucian, Cruzian, whatever, still yummy.

August 12, 2023, Day 3.

Just a lazy day spent in almost-paradise. Started with a hearty breakfast at "Toast" with my Crucian breakfast of Creole stewed saltfish, runny eggs, wilted spinach, plantains, and arepa. A stop at a quaint art gallery with a loquacious owner who name-dropped about celebrities who frequented the shop. Then, a ferry boat ride to another island at the Hotel on the Cay. The boat operator is a Fil-Am who stayed in St. Croix after a vacation years ago and never returned to the States; he now owns several properties on the island.

The beach is just what a nurse ordered: warm turquoise waters with hardly a wave to topple us over, clean Caribbean air, and some clouds as respite from the hot sun. We're celebrating the good times as the DJ blasts 70s-80s music; the hamburgers taste even better as we sway to Prince's music, with an iguana roaming under our table, probably waiting to be fed. My sister Bheng finally lost it when John Travolta sang "Grease". This is just a relaxing day in the water until our palms shrivel and our skin tingles from the sun's heat. Dinner at "Hamilton", with its elegant decor and expensive dishes. Gastos ng bakasyon.

August 13, 2023, Day 4.

Life in the Left Lane. In St. Croix, you have to drive on the left lane even though the steering wheel is on the left. It is one of the idiosyncrasies in this island paradise, which has been described in a book by an expatriate journalist (Emy Thomas) who fell in love with the Virgin Islands.

Life here in the islands is much slower: no rushing from one appointment to another, no bumper-to-bumper traffic, and most importantly, no cold winters. When you have hustled through life worrying about managing time, it is such a gift to take your sweet time to just enjoy the moment.

Dinner at the "Parrot Fish" with mango guava chicken and steamed red snapper. Last night in this tropical paradise.

August 14, 2023, Day 5.

Saying goodbye to St. Croix. Breakfast at the "Twin City" and the best ever Cinnamon scone with the yummiest crust. Back to work tomorrow, back to the hustle and bustle of the city. There was not enough time to explore the rest of the island. Did not have the time (or inclination and stamina) to go on the hiking trails, but I would have loved to see the wild pigs bite the beer cans.

Funny how our cab driver said that when he goes on vacation to New York, he enjoys sitting at Grand Central Station the most, watching people rush around; NYC is such a vibrant and exciting city. New Yorkers, like me (and at my age), prefer to lie down at the beach and watch the clouds go by. Different perspectives.

I Like... Part 2

2026-02-13T10:48:00.000-08:00

Retirement

I like any day when I don’t have to go to work, especially on a snowy day. Retirement is such a blessing, a gift that I should have accepted two years ago.

BTS is back

I like that I will be seeing BTS, all 7 members, in August in New Jersey. Floor tickets secured, wowza!!! The BTS supergroup will release their new album on March 20th and hold free concerts in South Korea before embarking on a global tour across North America, South America, Australia, and Asia, including the Philippines.

"I Will Come to You"

I like “I Will Come to You” by Jin of BTS on piano. It is a poignant ballad sung by Jin with gentle and yearning emotion. He wrote it while he was on military duty. He came back and fulfilled his promise to the BTS Army after his military discharge.

Travel and Quiet Moments

I like to travel (but I hate the long plane hours). I love to write about my travels because I can share the little joys I find along the way, the food I get to experience, the sights that proclaim the beauty of the world we live in, and the people who make the places unforgettable.

In 2025, I vacationed in the Philippines and finally visited the beautiful island of Coron in Palawan; took a road trip to Connecticut and Rhode Island; and attended the 45^th college reunion in Europe.

But it is the quiet moments I love most, those times of introspection in between the hectic schedules of trips and sightseeing. In Norway, I sat at a corner table in the square, enjoying my chocolate ice-cream cone, and watched people go by. My classmates had walked ahead to the palace, but I was content (and tired of walking on the cobblestones) and actually thought, “I could live here.” I like the sunrise view from our cruise ship’s balcony; aquiet prelude to the group tours that follow after we dock. As we explored the magnificent Schwerin Castle grounds, the “tunnel of greens” mesmerized me; it felt spiritual as I walked towards the light at the end of the tunnel. In Coron, I went up the rooftop terrace of our Airbnb house, at the crack of dawn, to marvel at the glorious sunrise as my family slept after a full day of island-hopping.

The quiet moments are my precious “me” time, when I slow down, focus on myself, and recharge my batteries during a vacation marked by constant movement and a packed itinerary to hit all the tourist traps.

Painting

I like that I started my painting journey right after retirement.

I am continuing and exploring my artist journey. I dabbled in pencil drawing before, but painting intimidates me. I am a total amateur, but I am determined to grow in my craft. I am playing with colors, brushes, and techniques as I switch between abstracts, patterns, and graphics using acrylic paints, markers, pastels, pencils,

I like that my art supplies are ready for me to use. I have a corner of the dining table for laying out my acrylic paints and markers, sketchbooks, watercolors, pastels, etc.

"Walk for Peace"

I like the Buddhist monks’ “Walk for Peace”. They started their travel in Fort Worth, Texas, and arrived in Washington, DC, on February 10. They aim to raise "awareness of peace, loving kindness, and compassion across America and the world." Amid the ongoing turmoil in the country, it is heartwarming to see crowds gather along the monks’ route to support and welcome them and their dog, Aloka. I see the Walk as a nonpartisan, nonreligious unifying force that has resonated with people from different races and faiths. According to their spokesman. "It's a spiritual offering, an invitation to live peace through everyday actions, mindful steps and open hearts”.

Ten states, 108 days, and 2300 miles later. I still cry when I see the pictures.

https://www.facebook.com/reel/2042326629965078

Yummy

I like Ube ice cream with hot pandesal and Pineapple Upside Down cake. I don’t usually eat desserts, but these two tempt me every single time.

Pinoy Nurses in "The Pitt"

I like that the HBO Max medical drama “The Pitt” features two Filipino nurses, Perlah (Amielynn Abellera) and Princess (Kristin Villanueva), as part of their ER team. Not just background players, but crucial to the emergency department team and highly respected for their expertise in the crazy, hectic world of emergency medicine. They provide comic relief when they speak Tagalog to each other, perhaps a coping mechanism to the work stressors. There is something therapeutic about bantering in your language, and sometimes communicating just with your eyes (and pointing with your lips).

After 15 seasons of “ER” without Filipino nurses, we see these bad-ass nurses and work besties claim their right to be seen as part of the team. As an ER nurse for 35 years, I felt represented. Finally.

K-drama

I like K-drama. Over the years, I have watched sporadically because of time constraints. After retirement, I am enjoying the time to watch as many as I can. I am currently juggling between several shows: Suspicious Partner, Crash Course in Romance, Can This Love Be Translated, Cashero, and Welcome to Samdari. Hey, I am picking up more Korean words as I go along.

I Like… (Part 1)

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2016/06/i-like.html

Favorite Instrumental Music

2025-11-07T21:03:00.000-08:00

Music is powerful, even if the lyrics are not in English. Music stimulates our brain’s emotional and reward centers by releasing the “feel good chemicals”, dopamine and serotonin. It transcends language, whether they’re in French, Korean, Tagalog, or Spanish. I never thought I would appreciate rap music until the trio of RM, Suga, and J-Hope of BTS opened my mind to the beauty of music I wouldn't usually listen to. I don’t let my ignorance of the language affect my appreciation of the music.

Sitting in an opera, the audience is held spellbound, even if they do not know the traditional Italian, German, or French lyrics. You can read surtitles (subtitles projected above the stage) or read the libretto with the translated text beforehand. But when the melodies resonate with you and touch you, it is beautiful no matter what.

INSTRUMENTALS

What is your favorite instrumental music> Classical or contemporary? The Beautiful Blue Danube, Ballade Pour Adeline, La Vie en Rose, or the joyful Filipino song called Katakataka?

Instrumental music lacks the advantage of on-screen surtitles in opera or the lyrics in a musical video, but it pulls our heartstrings as we recall forgotten memories. The unspoken touches us profoundly, as we close our eyes and let the music wash over us. The melody brings out powerful emotions that resonate with us and can bring tears to our eyes.

I wrote about the Stendhal Syndrome, also known as Florence Syndrome or hyperkulturemia, in a previous post. It is an emotional response to music and art that triggers a physiological response that activates the parasympathetic nervous system.

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2024/10/stendhal-syndrome-why-songs-make-us.html

These are my favorite instrumentals:

DREAMS

Diana Newell, an 87-year-old Royal Air Force (RAF) veteran, never gave up on her dreams. Diana participated in Season 3 of the musical program “The Piano” to find the best amateur pianists in the United Kingdom. She performed her own composition, written after the death of Phil, her beloved husband of 63 years. Jon Baptiste, a Grammy-winning artist, was impressed by Diana’s performance and labelled her “the Queen of England”.

“This piece was born out of loss and grief,” Diana said. “From a young age, I dreamt of being a concert pianist. And it has taken all of my 87 years to finally realise that dream. So my message is to never give up on your dreams.”

ELEGY FOR THE VICTIMS OF THE TSUNAMI OF MARCH 11, 2011

Nobuyuki Tsujii is an acclaimed Japanese pianist and composer who has been blind since birth due to microphthalmia. In 2011, the Great East Japan Earthquake triggered a tsunami killing 18,500 people. That same year, Nobuyuki performed his own composition to honor them.

Tsujii was visibly overwhelmed with emotion and burst into tears while playing this piece, noted as a landmark performance of his career. The music was haunting and poignantly beautiful.

The accolades for him from other great musicians and music critics say everything:

"Very seldom do I close my notebook and just give myself over to it, and he made that necessary. I didn't want to be interrupted in what I was hearing.”- Richard Dyer

“His playing goes straight to the heart, propelled by his phenomenal technique and the uncanny richness of sound he draws from the piano."- Clemens Trautmann

“For him to play the Chopin concerto with such sweetness, gentleness, and sincerity -- it's deeply touching. I had to keep from crying when I left the room."- Menahem Pressler

BALLADE POUR ADELINE

I discovered Richard Clayderman’s music among my father’s collection of vinyl records and cassette tapes when I was at college. Tatay was always playing Charlie Rich and Engelbert Humperdinck, so I “borrowed” Richard Clayderman’s tape and considered it my own property.

Clayderman, born Philippe Pagès in France, often partnered with Olivier Toussaint & Paul de Senneville and enjoyed an outstanding international career as a pianist. It all started when he recorded the gentle piano ballad that De Senneville composed for his baby daughter, Adeline.

There had been many versions of the popular ballad, but it has been his version that I always come back to, as well as his performance of Comme Amour, Souvenirs D’Enfance, and “Mariage D'Amour”.

LA VIE EN ROSE

Édith Piaf’s signature song, "La vie en rose," is my favorite French song. Piaf herself wrote the lyrics, and the music was composed by Louis Guglielmi (also known as Louieguy). The song was popular in the late 1940s, translated as "life in pink" or "life through rose-colored glasses,", Piaf’s lyrics captured the hopeful, yet wistful mood of post-WWII France. The song inspired many international recordings, notably by Lou Armstrong and even achieved Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 1998.

This guitar version by Guitar Baba (real name: Sebastian Andrade) is a charming recreation of the beautiful melody that I had on continuous loop. He provides simple guitar lessons on social media for novice learners.

CHERRY PINK AND APPLE BLOSSOM WHITE (Cerisier rose et pommier blanc)

This song was composed by Louis Guglielmi in 1950 and became famous in English as "Cherry Pink (and Apple Blossom White)". It has been played in Latin style as a mambo, with saxophones and trombones.

Hauser is a Croatian cellist who imbues this performance with his signature sensual and romantic style. Oh, those smoky long-lashed eyes, the swagger, the sexy smile, the come-hither looks. Who can resist?

KATAKATAKA

Katakataka is a Tagalog folk song composed by Santiago Suarez, and performed above by Rondalistang Parañaque. It is a story of a budding romance between a boy and a girl, their playful teasing, until the romance finally became serious.

I included this on the list because the song never failed to make me smile, even though I remember how I was as a miserable rondalla player during my elementary days. I did not make the audition. As consolation, I was one of the dancers for our elementary school presentation.

EL CONDOR PASA

"El Cóndor Pasa" (Spanish for "The Condor Passes") is an orchestral musical composed by the Peruvian composer Daniel Alomía Robles in 1913. The song is based on traditional Andean folk music and is now considered Peru's second national anthem.

Leo Rojas, an Ecuadorian musician, performed on the pan flute (also known as panpipes or syrinx) on the fifth season of the German television show Das Supertalent, based on Britain's Got Talent, which he won.

HYMNE À L'AMOUR

Marguerite Monnot composed the melody, and Edith Piaf wrote the lyrics for her illicit love affair with a married man. Gautier Capuçon performed this song with the Eiffel Tower as the backdrop.

Celine Dion delivered a stunning tour de force performance of this song in the 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony in Paris, France.

THE BEAUTIFUL BLUE DANUBE

This classical music by Johann Strauss II was played beautifully by André Rieu & the aptly named Johann Strauss Orchestra. It was recorded live at the grand Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna.

The concert I attended in Elmont, New York, did not have the glittering Austrian skies; the venue was the UBS Arena with the NY Islanders banners in the rafters. Yet, the audience response is the same. As Andre predicted, the aisles were filled with dancing couples as soon as the iconic "The Beautiful Blue Danube" waltz played.

HISTORIA DE UN AMOR

Written by the Panamanian songwriter Carlos Eleta Almarán, the song was translated in many languages and recorded by various artists around the world

David Bay performed this song while riding the gondola in Venice, Italy.

Joyful Videos to Make us Smile and Laugh

2025-09-25T11:42:00.000-07:00

Have you ever sat before your computer screen, transfixed by the videos? You suddenly realize that your jaw is aching from grinning from ear to ear. Happiness and pure delight fill your heart, your stress forgotten, a transient but much-needed respite from the worries of this world.

The news is depressing nowadays. During these trying times, when people forget how to be humane and kind, and political strife reigns supreme, I need diversion and distraction. It may last only a few minutes or hours, but I gladly welcome any opportunity to de-stress.

Laughter is healing. A 2023 meta-analysis reported that a single session of watching joyful videos reduces the stress hormone cortisol and releases the feel-good chemicals endorphins. A La Loma University study found that laughing is healthy, as it “strengthens the immune system by increasing the production of antibodies and activating immune cells, making it an essential component of a healthy lifestyle.”

So, join me and let us laugh and smile together.

“You're the One that I Want” by Bobby Glorioso and Antwaan Taylor. Just two friends having fun at work.

Victor Borge, comedian and pianist, the “Clown Prince of Denmark”. When life was simpler, the humor was cleaner, and no politician dictated your comedy routine.

Rowan Atkinson, the British comedian par excellence, is on another level. I will watch Mr. Bean anytime. Alas, he was never knighted, but he received the "Commander of the British Empire" award for his services to drama and charity.

TikToker @dfaguimba shares videos of himself dancing with random people on the street, coaxing them to release their inhibitions and dance with him, or simply giving them a hug. He uses the hashtag “Human is Human” in his videos.

Umaru Dante, also known as Ngobi Umaru, spreads smiles and happiness. He is a dance artist, choreographer, and entertainer from Kampala, Uganda. Who can resist his infectious smile?

Ken Lee, remember that very familiar song? I love her conviction. Such chutzpah!

Kids being kids, enjoying life to the fullest, cute and carefree. May they keep their "joie de vivre" even in their adult lives.

Sometimes, children don't have filters, and they just surprise us with their honest revelations. To this day, we still don't know who or what the boy did to cause her ire.

Mic drop!

Ellie and Emma

Kevin Bubolz realized the positive impact of dogs while deployed as a US Army helicopter pilot. He brings Ellie and Emma, two golden retrievers, to "spread smiles" in their visits as therapy dogs in schools, hospitals, and military bases.

Baby laughing

Ed People (real name, Edouard Jaqmin) from Belgium asks strangers to dance with him. It would be fun to meet him on the street; I may be persuaded to bust a move, even if I have no rhythm. Maybe I can teach him how to dance "Tinikling"? Oh no, that's too hard for my aching knees and hips. Maybe "Pandango sa Ilaw" or "Itik-itik"?

In 2014, the staff at Elmhurst Hospital filmed their version of Pharrell’s “Happy” song. So many familiar faces. I wish I were there.

P.S. I am remiss for not mentioning the super-group BTS from South Korea. I am an ardent Army (name for BTS fans), and I have spent countless hours watching their versatile and entertaining discography, as well as their hilarious variety show videos- RUN BTS and RUN-Seokjin. I smile, I laugh, and for some precious hours, I forget that there's a world out there worth escaping from.

Travelogue: Rhode Island and Connecticut Getaway

2025-08-15T12:02:00.000-07:00

August 8-10, 2025, a quick getaway to Rhode Island and Connecticut with my son and sister.

Mystic, Connecticut was our first stop. It has a charming and quaint New England atmosphere, still retaining a laid-back small-town vibe despite the multitude of tourists sampling Mystic Pizza (as popularized in the movie). The rich maritime history, combined with picturesque waterfront views, makes this town a popular destination and a quick getaway.

Newport in Rhode Island is renowned for its opulent mansions, such as The Breakers and Marble House, which served as the summer "cottages" for the ultra-rich and famous during the late 19th century, as dramatized in the "Gilded Age" HBO drama.

The grand dame of these mansions is the Breakers, where the Vanderbilt family lived lavishly in this breathtaking display of grandeur and wealth. The 70-room mansion attracts many visitors who are dazzled by its architecture and interior decorations, featuring marbled floors, gilded high-vaulted ceilings, walnut and platinum-leafed panels, alabaster arches and columns, crystal chandeliers (probably costing more than my annual salary), and mahogany and oak furniture.

So amazing how the other half lives. I am sure that all the other visitors fantasized about being one of the Vanderbilt children. Maybe this is where Anderson Cooper vacationed as a child. There is an inscription on the fireplace that was imported from a 16th-century French chateau: "I laugh at great wealth, and never miss it; nothing but wisdom matters in the end." I strongly disagree with this; who in their right mind will laugh at wealth?

Providence has a vibrant arts and culture scene, a charming small town that was the setting for the American medical drama of the same name, which ran from 1999 to 2002. Chantal Krevaziuk crooned a whimsical version of the Beatles' "In My Life".

Providence is steeped in art and history. Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design attract students from all over, adding to the “happening vibe” of this place.

A must-see attraction is the WaterFire, an award-winning outdoor sculpture installation by local artist Barnaby Evans. We were lucky to catch the event during our visit. The iron braziers along the three rivers in downtown Providence were lit with small bonfires. The banks along the rivers were filled with people, a la Times Square. The scheduled evening event began at sunset with a ceremonial gong and music to hype the bonfire lighting. It was magical.

River Boat Tour

We took a scenic boat tour along the Providence River, with the boat captain narrating the historic milestones and pointing out the nautical and architectural highlights of Providence. It was interesting to learn that the Providence River Bridge was constructed elsewhere in North Kingston before the entire bridge span was placed on barges and floated into its final location. Voila, a new bridge.

Yale University

We also stopped by Yale University, a private Ivy League University in New Haven, Connecticut. Famous alumni include the two Presidents Bush (Senior and Junior), Bill and Hillary Clinton, and Jodie Foster.

Food trip

Of course, wherever we travel, food beckons. We dined at Il Massimo (Italian), Dolores (Mexican) at Hope Street, Sherkaan (delicious Indian food), and bought PVD donuts home.

One funny thing happened. As we were driving from the WaterFire, traffic stopped because of a runaway turkey. The driver in front of us tried to coax the turkey to move out of the road, as the pedestrians on the sidewalk shouted encouragements (as if the turkey could understand). I was able to pass by Mr. Turkey. Fortunately, I saw him in my rearview mirror as he successfully reached the sidewalk, where a gaggle of pedestrians were ready to welcome him.

Travelogue: 2025 Philippine Vacation

2025-07-14T20:25:00.000-07:00

Philippine Vacation- March 16-29, 2025

"Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller", according to Ibn Batuta.

That is why I love to write about my travels because I can share the little joys I find along the way, the food I get to experience, the sights that proclaim the beauty of the Philippines, the adventures I can tick off my bucket list, and the family and friends that I can hug and spend memorable moments with.

In March 2025, we came to celebrate my sister Bheng’s 60^th birthday. It seemed surreal to return a year after our mother passed away, but we knew our mother did not want us to stop enjoying our family, to live our lives to the fullest, to reconnect with our loved ones, and to make memories to last a lifetime.

I enjoyed the old tourism slogan, "It's more fun in the Philippines", but after 11 years, it is time for a change. The new campaign "Love the Philippines", according to the Department of Tourism, is not just for branding purposes. Still, it is a call to action to all Filipinos "to remember the beauty of our country, to honor our past, and to look forward to the future armed with the virtues and values of being a Filipino."

Here are the highlights of our Philippine trip: March 16-29, 2025

BHENG’S 60^TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

A significant milestone - my sister Bheng's 60th birthday celebration at Eurotel Hotel in Las Pinas. The event was well-attended by family and relatives, longtime friends, and neighbors. I always marvel at my sister’s ability to maintain her connections with former classmates from elementary school, high school, and college. The celebration served as a family and friends reunion, featuring heartfelt reminiscences, enthusiastic picture-taking, and dancing led by two energetic dance instructors. There was a photo booth, a Pica-pica table, a coffee/juice/drinks bar, and games.

We also celebrated at home a joint post-birthday celebration for Bheng and niece Mikee Cerrudo-Baradi. Great food and fun company. The Sandok Bilao money game was hysterical, where kids and adults alike went crazy trying to pick up pesos and dollars using the sandok.

Of course, in any Pinoy party, there is karaoke. Confirmed: the Cerrudos are gifted with excellent singing voices, except for Bheng and me.

INC TEMPLO AND INC MUSEUM

Finally attended a worship service at the magnificent Iglesia ni Cristo Templo, which was completed on July 27, 1984. The Templo is the biggest church/place of worship in the country, with a capacity of around 7,000 people. The singing of the hymns was powerful and awe-inspiring, with the voices of about 100 choir members resonating throughout the Main temple.

We also toured the INC museum, which chronicles the Church's successful evolution from its humble beginnings in 2014 to the present day. The museum showcases historical artifacts and artworks, as well as the timeline of the Iglesia ni Cristo's growth in the Philippines, leading up to the Church’s global expansion, as evidenced by the magnificent houses of worship found all over the world.

The highlight of the day for me is hearing the recorded voice of Brother Felix Manalo as he preached a powerful sermon. It was one of those defining moments that touch your heart: hearing the Messenger share the words of God in a makeshift room, reminiscent of a simple nipa hut, with wooden benches for the listeners. The sermon brought tears to my eyes, and my faith was strengthened. This is the reason why I will remain a member of the church to my dying breath.

CIUDAD DE VICTORIA

The Ciudad is a 140-hectare enterprise built by the Iglesia ni Cristo in 2014, following the construction of the 55,000-seater Philippine Arena in 2011. Attractions are the well-kept gardens, the zoo, and the bird sanctuary.

Our guide was funny and delighted us with Instagrammable pictures as he acted as photographer, stage director, and videographer/human drone. He swayed, swooped, and performed acrobatic moves to capture us against the beautiful scenery. Human drones are fun to witness as they gave it their all.

At the end of the day at the Gardens, after exercising muscles I don't usually use and after taking more than 15,000 steps, I find comfort with Biofreeze. Hirap maging tourist!

CORON, PALAWAN

Palawan was cited by Tripadvisor as one of the Trending Destinations in the World for 2024.

Day 1 - Our family of nine embarked on a three-day adventure in Coron, Palawan. Our Airbnb lodging was arranged at Adora's Place, a fully air-conditioned establishment featuring four en-suite bedrooms, a high-ceilinged living room, luxurious accommodations, an array of amenities, and our own concierge. While exploring the town to buy souvenirs and cashew nuts (in various flavors, such as honey, crispy, sweetened, spicy, caramelized, and barbecued), we noticed tourists everywhere. Tourism is booming in Coron.

To explore Kabu Beach and the Maquinit Hot Springs resort, we hired two tricycles and navigated through rugged, unpaved roads that proved strenuous for my gluteus maximus. The seats were narrow and covered only the top half of our buttocks. The experience was akin to a roller coaster ride through mountainous terrain. The Maquinit Hot Spring is reportedly the only known saltwater hot spring in the Philippines, with the water temperature ranging from 38 to 40 degrees Celsius. At first, it was intimidating to even dip your toes, but the water actually soothed and temporarily relieved our muscle aches and pains from the tricycle ride. My brother Edwin, who can chat up any stranger, started joking around that the water can boil eggs (I thought balls, too). Such is the Cerrudo humor.

Day 2 - Tuesday marked the second day of our Coron, Palawan journey, beginning with a peaceful morning reflection on the balcony of our Airbnb. An enterprising young man led our island-hopping excursion. While navigating the boat's entry and exit points proved challenging, especially for those with less-agile mobility, our group fortunately escaped unscathed. My son and the crew appeared startled (probably traumatized) by my unorthodox disembarkation method, reminiscent of Jackie Chan's signature moves.

The natural beauty of Palawan is breathtaking, boasting majestic rock formations, limestone cliffs, pristine turquoise waters, warm temperatures, and fresh, invigorating air. The tour encompassed visits to the Twin Lagoons, Banol Beach, Kalayan Lake, and CYC Beach. The young ones enjoyed snorkeling in the waters and coming up with a brown starfish. And yes, the kayak experience was an item off my bucket list, with our tour guide reassuring us that the boat could hold our weight.

The crew cooked lunch for us, and we had our picnic on the beach: shrimp, pancit, adobong manok, sitaw at kalabasa, and inihaw na tulingan. The adventurous trio of Jordan, Kate, and my nine-year-old nephew Jacob hiked up 300 steps to the stunning Kayangan Lake, which offered breathtaking views of the lake against the clear blue sky. Kayangan Lake is considered the cleanest lake in the country and has been recognized with the Presidential Fame Award. When we got back to our rental, we were exhausted (Salonpas time), but happy for our incredible experience.

Day 3- That's a wrap, Palawan. As I spent a relaxing morning at Adora's Place, I savored a cup of tea and PB&J toast, accompanied by the pleasant sounds of Music Travel Love in the background. Concurrently, Jordan and Kate ventured forth to conquer the 700-step ascent to the pinnacle of Mount Tapyas, which offered a panoramic view of the land, sea, and neighboring islands. How nice to be so young and agile. My brother, Edwin, and Bill, my sister's boyfriend, elected to rent motorbikes and navigate the picturesque thoroughfares of Busuanga. Following our 11 am checkout from Adora's, we made our way to MC Cafe for a delectable brunch, culminating in a final opportunity to shop for souvenirs. Then, back to Manila via Cebu-Pacific at 430pm.

TAAL HERITAGE, BATANGAS

Taal Heritage tour. It was 85°F in Batangas. While everyone in my group still looked fresh and comfortable (even Jordan), I resembled a drowned cat with my hair plastered to my scalp from the rivulets of sweat from the heat. First stop at my brother Allan's house in Los Banos with their dogs. I missed Boomer in NY.

The Taal Heritage Town will appeal to history buffs with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved ancestral houses, particularly the Villavicencio Wedding Gift House and the Agoncillo House. The Villavicencio house is impressive for its 1850s-style hardwood floors with elaborate carvings, canvases, and furniture. However, I was most touched by the display of copies of Jose Rizal's Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, as well as copies of the La Solidaridad newspaper. Dona Gliceria was a fierce supporter of the revolutionaries during the Philippine-American War. Marcella Agoncillo sewed the Philippine flag as designed by Emilio Aguinaldo.

The towering Basilica church is the biggest church in the Orient. The Taal Market claims to be the Barong Capital of the Philippines, so of course, Jordan could not resist buying a new one.

INTRAMUROS, MANILA

Intramuros, or the Walled City, is a National Historical Landmark that features Fort Santiago, a large stone gate, and a shrine to national hero José Rizal, as well as several cathedrals and churches, barracks, fortresses, and armories used during Spanish colonization. Within the walls of Intramuros are four universities and the Casa Manila museum, which is filled with Spanish-era furniture and art. The Rizal Museum displays the room where he was incarcerated before he was executed by firing squad.

Rizal wrote Mi Ultimo Adios on a small piece of paper that he cleverly hid among his belongings in an alcohol stove. It was his last farewell to his beloved country, a farewell to oppression and tyranny from the Spaniards. I actually teared up when I saw a copy of his poetic tribute, which had been translated into several languages and was even displayed in Braille. I also remembered that we were required to memorize and recite the poem in our Spanish class.

One funny discovery is that my sister Bheng resembles her namesake, Josephine Bracken, who was Rizal's girlfriend at the time. We then toured the rest of the walled area with the horse-drawn carriages (kalesa) that ply the cobblestone streets.

THEATER: LIWANAG SA DILIM

We attended the Musical show, "Liwanag sa Dilim" (Light in the Darkness) at RCBC Plaza. The musical featured OPM (Original Pinoy Music) songs by veteran musician and songwriter Rico Blanco. The superb performances (especially by Sisa) and the brilliant staging accentuated the twists and turns of the story, based on an internationally recognized, heroic book by the beloved author JPR.

It was funny when a Gen Z'er was teaching Clara the Generational lingo. Hello!!! I'm trying not to spoil anything, lol, but "gets ninyo"?

Day 14, March 29, 2025. This is it. Goodbye, Philippines. Until the next time. It has been a fabulous vacation; the 2-week itinerary was packed with diverse activities and memories that will last a lifetime. I feel most profoundly blessed to spend time with my family and friends.

Walang iyakan.

Next post: Food trip

When Your Son Can Cook and Write Better Than You

2025-06-16T13:11:00.000-07:00

Well, I am just a proud stage mom. I am a self-proclaimed disaster in the kitchen, so how did my son, Jordan Sese, ever manage to create such yummy and Instagram-worthy dishes? How could he be my son? He can cook! I prefer washing dishes to turning on the stove. That talent did not come from me, nor from the other side either. Go figure.

However, I claim that the writing gene came from me. Jordan writes even better than I; his words are mesmerizingly beautiful. He may not have inherited my lack of cooking skills, but he certainly shares my love of the written word. He tells a story accompanied by gorgeous pictures of the food that he recreates.

For our annual family gift-swap, he requests cookbooks and pores through them for ideas on recipes that he can prepare with his own brand of magic. His description and the photos make me drool; surprisingly, even the idea of slicing and dicing does not terrify me (for one hot moment).

I can almost smell the banana leaves, and I can almost imagine myself on the patio, enjoying my hot chocolate and a serving or two of the bibingka.

He wrote: "Bibingka is, by far, my favorite cake, which is high praise because cake is already a perfect food. This rice cake is spongy, squishy, and suffused with the tropical perfume of banana leaf and coconut milk. The aroma alone is nostalgic. One of the delightful things about bibingka is the variety of toppings: macapuno shreds, kesong puti, or, my favorite, salted duck egg. The recipe owner opts for a shower of tart-sweet berries. That, with the addition of tangy buttermilk in the batter, brightens the cake, which, with a mug of coffee or ginger tea, makes this the perfect pick-me-up any time of day.”

I can't help but smile at how my son has a way with words that makes me like eggplants more than just deep-frying them.

"As the season officially transitions to fall, here’s one last farewell to summer’s bounty: charred eggplant braised in burst cherry tomatoes. While these ingredients are available year-round in U.S. supermarkets, as I get older, I’ve learned to appreciate the seasonality of ingredients. It’s part of a grander practice of being present: forgetting about the future for a moment and enjoying what's in front of you.”

FOOD FOR ALL SEASONS

Jordan pays homage to the different seasons. Perhaps to encourage Spring to continue blessing us with warm weather? And to warm us during the cold Winter season?

Jordan wrote: "A rainy day like yesterday begs for a comforting, brothy meal. The added warmth from red curry paste and the creaminess from coconut milk are all it takes to make a gloomy day bright.”

"Maybe I couldn't seal these rice balls perfectly, and the delicious salted honey pistachio filling may have spilled into the floral, sweet broth. But looks aside, this was such a delightful, chewy, warming dessert—perfect for a winter's day and just in time for the Lunar New Year.”

"No better way to celebrate spring than with a verdant pasta with the freshest of early spring bounty: crisp asparagus, sugar snap peas, and English peas."

“On a wintry week, when the cold creeps into your bones, a warm bowl of chicken and rice porridge serves as a cozy reprieve from the elements. The biting heat of ginger, toasty browned garlic, and earthy saffron make this broth rich and flavorful. And though the accoutrements are technically optional, I'd say a sprinkling of fried garlic chips, slivered ginger, sliced scallions, and a soy-cured golden yolk are non-negotiable.”

I love the Korean kimchi pancake. As my son Jordan Sese wrote, you are obliged to do a cheese pull. I have been doing the pull ever since, actually, with anything cheesy, lol.

"You really can't go wrong with a kimchi pancake. Sour and savory, crispy yet chewy, it's the perfect comfort food. The classic needs no alteration, but it's always fun to play around. Carla's variation adds sharp, gooey cheddar and portions them out into smaller discs to optimize the ratio of chewy inside to crispy outside. Photographed, of course, with an obligatory cheese pull."

DESSERTS

He has a sweet tooth, so he recreates these amazing temptations. They are just too good to eat. If your blood sugar goes up, then you got your just desserts. These are so decadent, but you can't help but ask for more.

PINOY COMFORT FOOD

Jordan is embracing his Pinoy heritage as he recreates old favorites. He may have acquired a sophisticated and eclectic palate during his food-tripping years in Queens, but he gets nostalgic sometimes for Filipino food.

"Happy Filipino American History Month! Kicking off the month is none other than the national dish, chicken adobo. In Filipino cuisine, adobo refers to the cooking technique of braising in vinegar, but recipes often add other flavorful ingredients, such as soy sauce (I have other recipes I’ve been meaning to try for achiote-based and turmeric-based adobos). In addition to soy sauce, this version by Angela Dimayuga has coconut in three forms (coconut oil, coconut vinegar, and coconut milk) to create a luscious and fragrant version that easily makes this my favorite way to adobo."

"It's been nearly two weeks since I returned from my vacation in the Philippines. Although I've shaken off the jet lag, the bittersweet feeling remains. I'm missing the place and the people, the sense of belonging.

It's no substitute, and it certainly doesn't vanquish the longing, but eating meals that remind me of the Philippines temporarily takes me back. This simple but delicious giniling atop a steaming mound of rice with sides of fried plantain and a crispy egg is like a gustatory roundtrip flight. Here comes the airplane.”

Jordan wrote: "Maja blanca, a coconut milk pudding studded with golden kernels of corn, graced many a party in my childhood. I’d pile a mountainous “dessert plate” with maja blanca and other sweet treats: biko, cassava cake, and turon.

Within this geological phenomenon of sugar, by comparison, maja blanca served as a refreshing palate cleanser of sorts. The coconut milk pudding was like downing a tall glass of milk to wash away the cloying sweetness; the corn became almost savory, like a buttery cob off the grill.

Abi’s recipe, like many of her delicious takes on Filipino desserts, riffs on the classic by doubling down on the savoriness with additions of malted milk powder for earthiness and a Frito toffee for a salty crunch on top. With a new treat this delicious, my dessert plate just got a little taller.

"When I was young, the greatest part of going to Filipino restaurants was ordering halo-halo for dessert. I used to hover wide-eyed over the towering glass of crushed ice, milk, and sweet mix-ins, armed with a long-handled spoon and ready to attack. The best ones were served up like a sundae, gilded with a creamy, caramelly square of leche flan and adorned with a decadent ube ice cream. Years later, at a backyard barbecue, I discovered they could be made at home. The host laid out bowls of crushed ice, a jar of halo-halo mix, milk, ice cream, and a stack of solo cups so we could assemble our own. Surely, she was playing a cruel trick on me; halo-halo could only be made in restaurants. And yet, scooping up mouthfuls with a plastic spoon, I realized that even a simple, homemade version could still hit the spot.

The beauty of halo-halo is that it is a no-recipe recipe and endlessly customizable. I can make it with available ingredients and to my personal preferences. Rather than using a pre-mixed jar (which is still valid!), this version is piled high with sliced jackfruit, nata de coco, kaong, sweetened red beans, ube halaya, and flan. I use oat milk instead of regular milk, but I defeat the substitute's purpose with a generous scoop of ube ice cream; a small price to pay for a few blissful moments. Served in this glass that is PERFECT for halo-halo from @incasa_decor. "

Jordan wrote: "Although adobo frequently gets top billing, to me, sinigang is the real star of FIlipino cuisine. It was the dish that made me actually enjoy vegetables as a kid, an experience I apparently share with several others. Sinigang also beautifully exemplifies one of the cuisine's defining features: sourness. I've grown up with the tamarind-based broth, but as an adult, I'm learning there are tons of other souring agents, including guava, tomato, kamyas, and even pineapple. This one uses a mix of tamarind and guava, which is familiar to me despite being new. The add-ins are also as variable as the broth itself; nestled in this broth are tender cuts of pork, creamy hunks of taro, bright bursts of tomato, and, my favorite, gently wilted kangkong."

"This is a fun twist on the tall glasses of Avocado con Hielo I used to get as a special occasion treat. In this format, grassy, yet buttery avocado pairs with sweet condensed milk and tangy Greek yogurt to make a dessert just as creamy and decadent as that childhood memory. And because these popsicles are prepared in batch, it was never easier to enjoy this treat every night of the week."

For non-Pinoys, it may be strange that we eat avocados as dessert; they are not just for guacamole, salads, or any Tex-Mex concoction. They are actually a fruit. Next to Halo-halo, the Avocado milkshake is my favorite. Jordan's ice popsicle is certainly a treat that I would love to try someday. He finished it all.

I am relieved that Jordan is not traumatized by his childhood experience with food prepared by me. These photos are a feast for the eyes. Are you hungry yet?

Thankful

2024-11-28T12:16:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for all the simple things in life. If you realize that every day is a gift, your heart will treasure every moment, and your mind will remember how you are truly blessed, maybe even more than you deserve. My box is complete. My cup is full.

Happy Thanksgiving to and your family.

Stendhal Syndrome: Why Songs Make Us Emotional

2024-10-13T20:36:00.000-07:00

Some songs tug at your heartstrings, sometimes at first listen, and most times, the familiar music holds a different meaning when you are vulnerable or just because the song resonates with you profoundly, from earlier memories, happy and sad. Other music touches you because of the hauntingly beautiful melody, even transcending language barriers.

The sheer beauty of music brings tears to my eyes. Stendhal Syndrome, Florence Syndrome, or hyperkulturemia is an emotional response to music and art that triggers a physiological response that activates the parasympathetic nervous system. Some complain of rapid heartbeat, fainting, confusion, and even hallucinations. In my case, it might just be a mild case of being teary-eyed and nostalgic.

That might explain a nine-year-old boy’s spontaneous awe-struck exclamation of “WOW” after a classical performance by the Handel and Haydn Society. Ronan Mattin’s one-word praise after the last note of Mozart’s piece was so genuine and wondrous that the audience erupted in laughter and applause. It turned out that Ronan was an autistic child who barely spoke, but his appreciation of the music brought out the Wow, which was heard around the classical world.

www.https://wfacebook.com/watch/?v=1239206220856774

Justin Bieber- “Lonely”

What if you had it all

But nobody to call?

Maybe then you'd know me

'Cause I've had everything

But no one's listening

And that's just lonely

I'm so lonely

Lonely

With recent bombshell news about Sean “Puff” Diddy’s arrest related to criminal wrongdoings, I learned about Justin’s unfortunate experience with those who should have protected him. Drawn by the lure of Hollywood, Justin, at 15 years old, descended into a life of drugs and a perverse lifestyle. Thankfully, he came out of it and found a new life with his wife and a new baby.

“Lonely” is a plaintive plea for help from a tortured soul.

Celine Dion- "Hymne A L'Amour", July 2024

Celine Dion is a fighter. Stiff-person Disease kept her out of the limelight for four years. Still, she triumphantly returned to close the 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony in Paris, France, with a stunning tour de force performance of Edith Piaf’s "Hymne A L'Amour". Singing on the balcony of the Eiffel Tower with the giant Olympic rings framing the scene and the rain pouring down, Celine showed the world what courage and perseverance look like. Incroyable!

“If the sky should fall into the sea, and the stars fade all around me …”

Young Forever fancam - London Wembley Stadium (Army surprise BTS!), 2019

The BTS fans known as the “Army” had a secret mission to surprise the BTS supergroup by singing 'Young Forever' during their concert at the London Wembley Stadium. The song made the boys tear up!

Andre Rieu- “The Rose”, 2014

Tender, melancholic rendition of the Amanda McBroom composition, made famous by Bette Midler in her 1979 film.

Josh Turner- “How Great Thou Art”

This song started as a traditional Swedish melody and a poem. It was translated from Russian to English and is now considered the second-favorite hymn after "Amazing Grace" of all time.

Carol Banawa- “Iingatan Ka”

My song for my mom. I miss her. So much.

I’ll take care of you

I’ll watch over you

In my heart, you are my greatest dream.

In this world

There’s no one else but you

I live my life for you forevermore.

Celebrating 110 Years of the Iglesia ni Cristo

2024-07-21T19:09:00.000-07:00

Today, July 20, 2024, at The Forest Hills locale, our mid-year Thanksgiving service celebrates the extraordinary journey of this church from the Philippines. It is a momentous occasion that is being observed by fellow members worldwide. Coinciding with the break of the First World War on July 27, 2014, Brother Felix Manalo registered the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church of Christ) with the Philippine government in Punta, Santa Ana, Manila,

This is the INC’s 110^th anniversary. From its humble beginnings in a tiny nipa hut, the Church's exponential growth is evident in its glorious and magnificent houses of worship in over 166 countries. This is a testament to the promise of the Almighty God to watch over His people. The Church's expansion to foreign shores and the inclusion of non-Filipinos in its burgeoning membership defied all odds and surpassed all expectations.

Throughout the years, I felt God's love as I navigated life's challenges. Even through the darkest times, I did not feel alone. Life could have been easier if I had not had to stay true to my faith, but instead, my life is so much richer with spiritual blessings. Yes, we only live once, so why not make it worthwhile, not with fleeting pleasures, but with the assurance of eternal life?

The Lord Almighty saved me on that fateful day, Sept. 11, 2001, and He has guided me to stay on the straight road, no matter what.

I am privileged to be a member of the Iglesia ni Cristo. My favorite hymn reminds me of this. He has never failed to care for me and provide for my every need. I am blessed; truly, I am blessed.

Rising from the Far East

https://incmedia.org/rising-from-the-far-east/

Centennial

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2014/08/the-centennial.html

Remembering Nanay

2024-05-12T12:57:00.000-07:00

May 12, 2024

This Mother’s Day is our first without our Nanay. She passed away on January 31^st, 2024, 14 days before her 93^rd birthday.

Random memories still bring tears to my eyes. We are luckier than most because we had our mother for a long time, but how can you teach your heart not to break?

As I wrote to her once: My heart belongs to the one person who can bring me down to my knees with a single look when I was naughty as a kid; the one person who can lift my heart with a sweet smile; the one person who can make me giggle until I jingle when she starts her chicken dance; the one person who inspires me with her resilience and quiet strength; the one person who can make me open my wallet with just a little wink; and the one person who can get me bawling like a baby with a single tear.

Some days are easier than most when I remember her funny dance and her easy laugh. I remember her eyes lighting up whenever she saw a Barbie doll in Toys R Us in the 1990s. Her Barbie collection was her most prized collection, and we will honor her fervent wish to preserve her dolls for eternity.

There are times when the emotions hit like a freight train, and I just let the tears flow, knowing that I have to navigate the full spectrum of the grieving process. I understand that this emotional journey that all my siblings and everyone who loves her will abate in its intensity as time goes by.

I would like to imagine Nanay and Tatay together, with my father chasing her to dance the Rico Mambo. I pray the Almighty God will look after them in His enduring wisdom and kindness.

We all grieve differently and cope in the best way we can. The profound loss will always remain because the memories will not dim our love for her. As I have done in the past, I will continue to write about my mom; this is my emotional catharsis, how I rejoice in her glorious presence in my heart.

I just miss her so very much.

Feb.14, 2024

Today should have been the 93rd birthday of my dear Nanay. Her children wanted to celebrate her memories. Although our hearts are still reeling from her loss, we are still grateful that she did not suffer. I am comforted by the outpouring of love from family and friends. I am strengthened by her memories, as well as by remembrances from everyone. My brothers and our relatives celebrated her in our home in Las Pinas. In Aklan, Bheng, Jordan, Tess, and I celebrated with her siblings, pamangkins, and apos. She is well-loved, and death cannot steal her beautiful memories. In her absence, she still makes me smile. My Barbie-loving mom, I love you so much.

Jan. 31, 2024

My heart breaks, splintered in so many pieces. My Nanay passed away today after a massive stroke. She would have been 93 this coming Feb. 14th. She would have enjoyed the party we were planning for her. And now, she is gone. She will be forever in my heart. The following days will be tough, but it's made easier with the love from family and friends. My mother lived a full life. And now, she rests. Those she left behind need to be strengthened and comforted by the memories of a strong, formidable, and loving woman.

May 14, 2023

The sentiment remains the same. Today, on Mother's Day, I can hug you virtually, Nanay. You are my guiding light and inspiration. I can't wait to see you again on our next vacation. Nag-iipon pa.

Feb. 14, 2023

My dear Nanay, even though I am not with you on your 92nd birthday, I am happy you got your fervent wish to spend your special day with your brothers and sisters in Aklan. The joy on your face is priceless as you reminisce and laugh about your childhood memories or whatever sisters talk about in their old age. May you stay as joyful as you are. Your sisters have adopted your unique way of dancing (flapping) with your arms, hahaha! The videos and pictures demonstrate how you are well-respected and well-loved, like a queen. Bheng, can you get the Segovia siblings to sit still for a group picture when you get there? And then, give her the biggest hug for me. Nay, Mother dear, I love you so very much.

Feb. 14, 2022

On your 91st birthday, Nanay, I send my warmest virtual hug and kisses. Across the miles, on our video call, I sensed your eagerness to travel to Aklan. Don't worry; just be a little patient. Just get your booster dose first, and you will see your sisters again. And I get to see and hug you in real life in a few months. It will be the most precious time. It is so heart-wrenching to be far apart from you, not being able to see my family in the Philippines during this Covid pandemic. Love you so much.

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2021/02/love-letters-to-my-nanay.html

The song "Mapa" by the P-Pop boyband SB-19 is about these young men paying tribute to their moms and dads. In it, they reassure their parents that they will now care for them as they once did. I am thankful that I was able to show my gratitude and love to my parents when they were still alive.

“There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love.”

– Washington Irving

Favorite Filipino Chorale Renditions

2024-03-11T15:37:00.000-07:00

It thrills me whenever I hear foreigners singing Filipino songs. Although Filipino songs have not yet gained worldwide attention, musical choirs, and glee clubs worldwide seem to be fascinated by the melodies, cadence, and intricate harmonies of long-forgotten folk songs from my native Philippines.

LERON-LERON-SINTA

Composed by Alberto Tolentino. Arranger- Saunder Choi

In January 2024, a Swedish choir bagged the Grand Prize in a European chorale competition with their exuberant rendition of “Leron-Leron Sinta” (My Dear, Little Leron). The multi-awarded acapella choir cHägersten A Cappella sang this Tagalog song with enthusiasm and vitality.

Composed by Alberto Florentino, it is believed to be a traditional work song in Tagalog sung in a call-and-response mode by men and women during the papaya harvest season. The lyrics motivate workers to keep moving forward and stay positive to attain their goals.

Sweden's Leron Leron Sinta Grand Prize in Europe (+ Awarding Night )

Here are some of my favorite chorale renditions:

AY, AY, AY, O-PAG IBIG

Filipino Song: Canada vs Korea vs Germany (Ay, Ay, Ay, O Pag-ibig by George Hernandez - Arranger)

The Big Sing 2023 National Finale - Session 1, Takapuna Grammar School Chorale

ROSAS PANDAN

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9l4vteAI6g

Rosas Pandan", a Visayan Folk Song arr. George Hernandez, performed by the Chamber Ensemble with soloist

DAHIL SA IYO

Yerra Buena Gardens Festival

PARU-PARONG BUKID

DA COCONUT NUT

The Baylor University Men's Choir sings Da Coconut Nut by Ryan Cayabyab.

PAKITONG KITONG

This is a song from my childhood, those long ago time when our big family of cousins converged together and sang our hearts out. I am happy to see young ones preserving these beloved songs.

Performed by: The Mandaue Children and Youth Chorus

Tong Tong Pakitong Kitong, Dandansoy— Loboc Children's Choir in Melbourne

Children's choir from Bohol, Philippines performs in Melbourne

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2017/08/da-coconut-nut.html

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2010/10/tigadong-tigadong-rosas-pandan.html

Loving Fall

2023-11-19T13:47:00.000-08:00

I love the Fall foliage so much so that I thought it deserved its own post before the cold of Winter brings shivers to my fingers and my mind. Autumn is smacked between the sweats and bugs of Summer and the dreary, slushy Winter. For me, Autumn is a season of glorious splendor.

Autumn shows off the vibrant colors of red, orange, and yellow against the bright blue sky. The leaves are dancing in the wind, as the trees hold on to their crowning glory, even as the chlorophylls, anthocyanins, and carotenoids work behind the scene.

There is music as I walk on a carpet of leaves. The air is crisp and smells of pumpkin-spiced latte. And I get to wear warm and cozy sweaters to cover my belly flab and saggy arms.

The mosaic of colors brings a sense of warmth and peace, triggering my orbitofrontal cortex. Breathe in, breathe out. My serotonin-booster.

The Fall season ushers in nostalgia for traditions that bring comfort and joy. As the trees prepare to hibernate, it is also the time to rest and contemplate. To snuggle with a fuzzy blanket, a great book, and hot cocoa.

Autumn is a chance to wind down from the hectic activities of the Summer, reflect on the past, and plan for the future, even if just to mentally strengthen for the rigors of the winter season.

It is the time to give thanks for God's blessings.

"How silently they tumble down / And come to rest upon the ground / To lay a carpet, rich and rare / Beneath the trees without a care,"- Elsie N. Brady

Reaching a Milestone: My 9/11 birthday

2023-09-11T14:06:00.019-07:00

A few years ago, I couldn’t imagine that I would admit to my real age. I am not vain at all. I just wanted to slow the time of reckoning. I wanted to preserve the idea of youth where opportunities still abound and the world-is-an-oyster kind of optimism. I wanted to remain agile, adventurous, and creative.

Well, today, I overcame all those crazy ideas, and I proudly proclaim that I reached the milestone. I am finally 65 years old. Just don’t you ever tell me that I don’t look a day over 64 because I will disown you as a friend for life. I am not old; I am wiser.

Yes, I can now claim Medicare, although I am still working five days a week, and have not yet claimed my SSN benefits. My head is still full of ideas, my neurons are still active. I can actually work full-time for two more years and even longer, if I want. I guess, I am still crazy.

Sixty-five is a milestone that anyone should aspire to. Twenty-two years ago, that almost did not happen. I have written about that fateful day on September 11, 2001, when I stood on the platform of a Manhattan-bound train, eager to spend my morning at the Starbucks café in the World Trade Center. For the grace of God, I changed my mind and went home.

A few years after the 9/11 tragedy, I was even reluctant to celebrate my birthday until someone told me that I deserved to celebrate my special day and so I did, in a low-key manner, mindful to not encroach on the grief that permeates that particular day. I have actually written several blog posts about my mixed feelings about this day (I am so emo, I know).

Today, I took a day off from work and just spent my special day enjoying that I did not have to do anything, lazing around in my BTS t-shirt gift from my sister Bheng. Read some historical romances, listened to music from BTS, SB-19, Lee Suhyun, and AKMU, and played with Boomer. Later tonight, we will feast on a Jollibee spread of chicken joy, hamburger, pancit palabok, and coconut pineapple pie. I had three birthday celebrations already prior to today. My heart is full of joy for the birthday wishes on Facebook and Messenger. Thank you all so much.

Since this is a day of reflection, I want to list the many ways that I am thankful for:

The gift of life. I had a health scare early this year, but everything worked out well. I still have the aches and pains of getting older, but I am generally healthy.
My faith. I feel spiritually blessed. As my favorite hymn goes, “Let God take charge of your life”.
Family and friends. I am thankful that I spent my last birthday back in the Philippines, and that I was able to hug my mother again. Thank you for my supportive family, and a whole slew of cousins out there. My friends make my life interesting.
Despite my age, I still remain agile, adventurous, and creative.

My bucket list, what’s left on it:

Travel more. I am thinking of starting another blog with my travels.
Write another book.
Attend a BTS concert. That will be in 2025 after all the boys finished their military service, I am attending an Andre Rieu concert in a few days, so that is one off my bucket list.
Paint, draw again, be creative.
Present in a national/international nursing conference
Learn to bake. My son Jordan can, why can’t I?
Tiktok???

Birthday posts:

A 9/11 Birthday

A 9/11 Birthday Thank You

COMFORT SONGS Part 2

2023-07-03T15:06:00.030-07:00

Why do we need comfort songs? Like comfort food, we tend to go back to those things which ease our minds, warm us during the cold nights, and heal our broken hearts. But comfort songs are not meant only for turbulent times; they can just be reminders of how music brings calm, positive thoughts, and happiness. Comfort songs put me in a state of Zen, of just letting go, and enjoying the music to relax my body, mind, and spirit.

My first go-to comfort songs are church songs. These spiritual songs as played by our late brother in Christ Dr. Genesis Rivera are my emotional first aid. In times of trouble and sadness, I play these songs to meditate and pray.

I DEEPLY MEDITATE

LET GOD TAKE CHARGE OF MY LIFE

There are other comfort songs that I have added to my playlist.

AUTUMN IN MELBOURNE

This song was featured in many Instagram reels. The acoustic guitar version is also used in many Korean dramas.

BALLADE POUR ADELINE- Richard Clayderman

This is the song from my teenage years that made me an avid fan of Richard Clayderman. This song was composed in 1977 by Paul de Senneville for his newborn daughter. Whenever I play this song on my computer, my brother stops watching the Mets game and asks me again if my son finally learned how to play this on the piano.

REALITY- Lee Suhyun

I have been addicted to this song since Lee Suhyun sang this as part of the Begin Again musical series. “Reality" was performed by English singer Richard Sanderson in 1980.

Dreams are my reality

The only kind of reality

Maybe my foolishness has past

And maybe now at last

I'll see how a real thing can be

Dreams are my reality

A wonderous world where I like to be

I dream of holding you all night

And holding you seems right

Perhaps that's my reality

MAMANG SORBETERO (Ice Cream Man) by Celeste Legaspi

Music by Jose Mari Chan, lyrics by Gryk Ortaleza. This is a nostalgic nod to my childhood when we eagerly waited for that distinctive bell that signaled the ice cream man, not to be mistaken for the American ice cream truck that ushers the beginning of summer here in America. No, the sorbetero comes all throughout the year to bring the traditional ice cream with coconut or carabao milk. I was always the first one greeting Mamang Sorbetero, so eager to get the first cone, so I can come back for more.

I WILL FOLLOW HIM- by Andre Rieu

This rousing song does not fail to make me smile. A masterpiece of a performance.

Top 6 Comfort Songs Playlist :

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2021/08/top-6-comfort-songs.html

Forty-three Years: A College Reunion in Florida

2023-05-20T09:49:00.015-07:00

It has been a year in the making. Twelve classmates from the Arellano University BSN group section 2 congregated in Melbourne, Florida to enjoy each other in celebration of our 43rd anniversary of finishing a rigorous nursing program in the Philippines in 1980.

The reunion was boisterous and funny. The activities were carefully planned by the master event planner team of Floridians Janet and her hubby Arnold. Shirley, from nearby West Palm Beach, also offered her insights on the must-to-do lists for our grand reunion. The classmates came from New York (Nenita, Jo, and Ces), New Jersey (Ampy), California (Lita and Luz), Canada (Mate), Austria (Amie), Norway (Alma), our native land Philippines (Cely), and Florida (Janet and Shirley).

Forty-three years ago, our conversations were about clinical rotations, tests, reports, and our crushes. As twenty-year-olds, our dreams were of passing the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) exams, our tickets for nursing jobs in America and Europe. We were excited to spread our wings and conquer the world. Those were the days of optimism and excitement for a whole realm of possibilities. Those were the days of laughter and unbridled joy.

Now, the conversations have become more unapologetically down-to-earth and reflective of our aging process: bowel elimination, sex (or lack of it), aches and pains, and surgeries. Some are retired and some are still toiling for the almighty dollar. Some of us have embraced their apostolic duties (a pun on “apo” or grandchildren) and others are just patiently waiting for our kids to settle down. We have overcome our inhibitions and no subject is taboo. Our talks were raw and honest, but there was plenty of silliness and laughter.

May 1, 1023, Day 1 of our much-awaited reunion. Thank you to Arnold and Gerry who were volun-told by their spouses to serve as our drivers for the week. We checked in at our hotel and squealed with excitement when we saw each other in Ampy’s room. Then off to dinner at Janet's home. Twelve women converged and reminisced about our nursing student days. Those who are cooks prepare the food. Ampy’s sinigang was to die for and her tupig was just a hit. Some of us who didn’t have the passion and talent for cooking "supervised" (wink, wink, I see you, Alma). In fairness, we volunteered to wash the dishes.

I brought some copies of my books “Nursing Vignettes: and “ER Nurse: The Warrior Within”. Thank you, Mate, for the reminder to do the book signing (and also for putting up with the snores from your roommates). It was a pleasure to sign those books for my classmates who have given me support and encouragement along the way. These classmates are big-time cheerleaders.

May 2, 2023, Day 2- Picnic at Paradise Beach where the waters were rough, too bad we're not surfers. Impromptu games (Charades, Pinoy Henyo, Musical game) and lots of laughter. Dinner at Janet's and Arnold's beautiful home. Swimming again with Zumba and line dancing lessons with Luz as the effervescent dance instructor. Luz seemed to forget that we had lost our sense of rhythm a long time ago. Our batchmate Dori, who is now a retiree in Florida, joined us in our festivities.

Then the slideshow presentation of our college years, and our reunion pictures. Nostalgic reminders of those easy-going student days, in our stiff blue and white uniforms, our starched caps on our heads, our minds filled with upcoming tests, but also of ways and manners to go on unsanctioned field trips. I proposed that we turn this slideshow into a Photobook, to replace the school yearbook that we never had (our printer ran away with the money.)

I love how each classmate spoke after their featured page to update us about their families. Cely started it off by stating that she made her plans around the reunion dates. It was very heartwarming to hear how she planned her other numerous activities to ensure that she gets to join every single reunion. I think somebody passed onions around because a few classmates were teary-eyed as we talked about the women we have become.

May 3, 2023, Day 3- Escapade to the Florida Keys- Key Largo, Islamorada, and Key West. We were in Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville. Posed with the giant lobster. We rode the glass-bottom boat that promised underwater vistas of colorful fishes and North America’s only living coral reef. Most of us didn’t have sailor’s legs. Thankfully the Dramamine worked for me. Some of us slept during the boat ride.

We discovered a nice restaurant just a few steps away from our hotel with a great ambiance and beautiful music from one of the aspiring singer-songwriters who were in town to celebrate the songwriters’ festival.

May 4, 2023, Day 4- From Marathon, we drove to Key West. Crossed the 7-mile bridge, where the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico meet. We sang off-key as we paraded around the mile marker area with our lavender anniversary t-shirts (and the tarp) that Cely brought from the Philippines. Like a drill sergeant, Amie directed us on how to pose. Interestingly, the men were more amenable to directions.

A must-stop was a concrete buoy that marked the southernmost point in the continental United States, just a mere 90 miles to Cuba. We rode the Conch Trolley Hop-on Hop-off to tour around the New Town and the Old Town. Our first trolley driver Louie is half-Filipino and very funny. We ended the day at Mallory Square, where we watched the sunset together. This is probably one of my poignant memories of this reunion, our arms on our classmates' shoulders.

May 5, 2023, Day 5- Cinco De Mayo. Miami Beach, Everglades National Park. Here in the swamps of the Everglades, where alligators lurked in the bushes. The Airboat glided across the "River of Grass", and the captain slowed it down as he named the birds along the way and tried to point out the alligators which were somehow hiding away. We learned the difference between an alligator and a crocodile. I thought to myself, I will just run for my life first. We also zipped past the mangroves and sawgrass marshes. The fast ride through the river, the wind blowing our hair, was exhilarating. I think I would enjoy operating a speedboat.

Ces gave us a scare when she tried to retrieve a hat that was blown away. She dipped her toes on the pond near the entrance, only to have a baby alligator skitter away.

Dinner was a comedic finale to the long day. We rushed to Wellington Mall to eat at the food court only to learn that the dining area was closing. The nurses that we are, we quickly decided to order to go. The Lotus Express Chinese food staff were pleasantly surprised to get a last-minute influx of 19 hungry customers. With military precision, we gave our orders. We made it in time before the mall closed.

It was Nenita’s laugh-out-loud moment. We raced to the hotel to take over the dining room to eat our Chinese take-out. Nenita was ready to run, her food clutched in one hand, as she loudly wondered if she needed to retrieve her carry-on bag from the back of the van.

May 6, 2023, Day 6- Checked out of Hampton Inn, then off to Shirley's house for a sumptuous Cuban lunch at their West Palm Beach house. Thank you, Shirley and John. What a beautiful house, filled with plants like Janet's. Both plantitas.

This is also when we pranked our Selfie Queen as we took our selfies when she forgot her phone on the table. We (Alma, Ampy, Nenita, and I) hijacked her phone, clearly, we were still mischievous teenagers at heart. That was fun.

Planning for the next reunion. Hmmm, Norway in 2025, maybe? Stopped by Lake Worth, West Palm Beach, and Mar-a-Lago. Last day that we were together as a group of 12 classmates. Some of us flew back home while others went on a cruise to the Bahamas. Sadly, I could not go on a cruise (insert inside joke)

Thankful for Lita and Janet who kept their hubbies awake with all those driving. Thankful to Ces for being the “treasurer” and keeping our finances together. Thankful to every single one of my classmates who joined. We do miss our other friends who were not able to make it this time, but I'm sure wished they were there.

Shirley stated, “The reunion revived me”. Lita reminded us that we are “her valued family”. It is a feeling shared by all of us.

This reunion has many revelations:

This group of women in their mid-sixties is still fun to be with. We are vibrant and ready to enjoy life fully. We have come into our own, confident of our place in this world.
The spouses (Homer, Ed, Arnold, Gerry, Manny, Ofre, and Gary) who joined us on this trip were enjoying this reunion too. They bonded again on their own; in fact, they were more “game” to pose for pictures, followed the selfie queen’s directions very well, and used the reunion tarp more than the classmates themselves.
That even as we aged, we were still young at heart. We accepted our wrinkles, for they are markers of a life well-lived. I must say that Alma maintained her slim figure and would still probably need to present her ID card at a bar.
Ces and Primo's love story
Even after all these years, we can be silly and we can laugh at any little thing.

Picture by Homer

This is what a class reunion looks like. We have traveled all around the world, each one forging a different path, each one successful in our own right. As we watched the gorgeous sunset of Key West, we were grateful for connecting and making more memories. Precious moments.

Nursing had been good to us. With our shared experience in the Philippines, we led parallel lives of surviving against the challenges. I know that each of us made a difference in our patients' lives. This is how we celebrated Nurses Week.

Other reunion posts:

College Reunions: Friends and Princeless Memories

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2018/09/what-is-it-about-college-reunions-that.html

Thirty-two Years Later- Thanks to Facebook

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2012/08/thirty-two-years-later-thanks-to.html

Thirty-One Years Later

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2011/10/thirty-one-years-later.html

Singers Who Made Me Cry

2023-04-30T18:29:00.016-07:00

Sometimes, you get the feels. Maybe it was because of the singer, or maybe the song just touched your heart. The lyrics evoked sad but sometimes happy and inspiring memories. Suddenly, tears run down your face, and you surreptitiously wipe them lest an annoying person (any one of your family members) catch you in a vulnerable moment.

I must admit that I still cry when I watch the videos, no matter how often I've seen them.

IAM TONGI, "MONSTERS"

“He looks like Iz” was my first thought when I saw Iam Tongi appear on the latest American Idol auditions. Israel "Iz" Kamakawiwoʻole was a Hawaiian/Polynesian music legend who sang the iconic version of “Somewhere over the Rainbow.”

Iam is his own person, an 18-year-old making his own path and history. He moved out of Oahu and settled in Seattle because, as he said, their family was “priced out of paradise.”

Iam dedicated his song to his father (who used to harmonize with him), who passed just months before his AI appearance. James Blunt wrote “Monster” for his dying dad. What a tearjerker of a performance.

JIN FROM BTS- “THE ASTRONAUT”

Kim Seok Jin from BTS made me cry twice. The first time I ever watched BTS on the internet was when he sang the anthemic “Epiphany” to a full stadium that has suddenly gone quiet when he started playing on the piano. And then, when he sang, “I’m the one I should love,” I became emotional. The audience loved his impassioned performance, and I fell into the rabbit hole, hook, line, and sinker.

Jin tugged at my heartstrings again with the song “The Astronaut.” He collaborated on a farewell song with Coldplay to the BTS fanbase Army before he had to start his military duty in South Korea. The video was a love song to his fans, his reassurance that he would come back again. Jin’s live appearance at the Coldplay concert in Argentina was even more touching because it was his last performance before he had to don his soldier uniform. A last hurrah on the performance stage until his discharge from the military in 2025.

“When I am with you, there is no one else.” The brotherly love between Jin and Chris Martin was awesome, so beautiful in its sincerity. Chris was hyung (older brother in Korean) to Jin, who was visibly moved by the warm and enthusiastic response from the audience. It was supposed to be a Coldplay concert, but the fans welcomed him with open arms.

CAROL BANAWA, “IINGATAN KA”

The song was originally a theme song from a Filipino tv romance drama sung by Carol Banawa. Carol’s soothing voice is a serenade for mothers for their unconditional love for their children. Now, it's their offspring who have to take care of them.

Carol is based in Canada, an OR registered nurse.

Iingatan ka, aalagaan ka

Sa puso ko ikaw ang pag-asa

Sa 'ting mundo'y may gagabay sa iyo

Ang alay ko'y itong pagmamahal ko

May nagmamahal, aakay sa iyo

Aking inay, ikaw ang nagbigay ng buhay ko

Buhay na kay ganda

Pangarap ko na makamtan ko na

ERIC CLAPTON, "TEARS IN HEAVEN"

Eric Clapton wrote this song to mourn his 4-year-old son Conor who fell to his death from a high-rise apartment in Manhattan. A parent's worst nightmare. The tragedy is incomprehensible, the pain unimaginable, the loss heartbreaking.

SUNG-BONG CHOI, "NELLA FANTASIA"

There is no way that anyone would watch this without tearing up. A rags-to-riches story of a boy who survived a terrible childhood to fulfill his dream of being on a musical stage.
Sung-bong Choi was orphaned at 3, ran away from the orphanage at 5 years old, and lived on the street.

Until he came on stage on Korean Got Talent and surprised everyone with a powerful rendition of “Nella Fantasia.” His audition clip went viral, and he was on his way to living life happily ever after.

Note: I did not want to shatter everyone’s image of Sung-bong Choi, but he went viral again in 2021 when he faked a cancer diagnosis to collect donations from his fans. He attempted suicide and was later diagnosed with recurrent depressive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Guilty Pleasures #4: Flowers, Delilah, Doodles, Su-hyun, Eruption, BTS Choreography

2023-04-21T20:16:00.044-07:00

“

It seems that I have a lot to be guilty of nowadays. Life is full of guilty pleasures. Do I care if some think I am too frivolous? Heck, no.

"FLOWERS”

Here’s my disclaimer again: I am not a Miley Cyrus fan but there is no denying the fact that she has great songs in her discography. I love “The Climb” but this new song “Flowers” is my new LSS (last song syndrome). I will add this to my playlist of girl power/ badass songs like “I Will Survive”, “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)”, “Man, I Feel like a Woman”, and “Panahon na para Magsaya” from Sampaguita.

“I can buy myself flowers, Write my name in the sand / Talk to myself for hours, Say things you don’t understand / I can take myself dancing, And I can hold my own hand / Yeah, I can love me better than you can.”

Hurray to self-empowerment and self-love. Miley’s raw vocals gave this song an authentic expression. It is a reminder to everyone that we can all rise above all adversities and that we can survive and actually flourish on our own. It is a call to arms for single women (and men) out there that they do not need to stay in an unfulfilling relationship.

I have been buying flowers for myself for a long time. And I am okay with it.

This is the lyrics video. Watch her official video at your own risk 😊

2) DELILAH’S SAPPY LOVE SONGS

"You're listening...to Delilah." Anybody who is into romance would know the self-anointed “Queen of sappy love songs.” Delilah is an ultra-famous radio personality with a nationally-syndicated call-in and dedication request program. With about 200 stations and approximately 8 million listeners, Delilah’s distinctive voice has ruled the airwaves.

Whether it’s about missing a special someone or trying to get over a heartbreak, or someone who needs encouragement and tough decisions to get out of an abusive relationship, Delilah has a song.

Recently, the stories inspired me to write more love stories. One was between a paramedic and a nurse. Another call-in story ended with her reuniting high-school sweethearts. She is better than all those match-making sites out there.

And then, we learned about a widowed woman who married her brother-in-law. The woman’s sister passed away several years before, almost at the same time as her own husband also died. Long story short, the widow and the widower blended their big family together, and the cousins became step-siblings and lived happily ever after.

It’s not just schmaltz and saccharine. She does not hold back with giving tough love advice to those she gently calls knuckleheads. She went through all life's ups and downs and always spoke from her heart.

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1319-hey-its-delilah-92847861/

3) THE ART OF DOODLING

I am guilty of doodling when stuck in a long or boring meeting. Doodling while in a long meeting keeps me sane. I do not mean to disrespect the speakers, but I just needed to draw or sketch in my notebook in order not to zone out or sleep. I doodled so I could concentrate or release some tension, my cortisol-reducing activity. Well, this was my excuse whenever my seatmate nudged me to pay attention.

A psychologist named Andrade wrote that doodlers actually retain more information than non-doodlers. I also learned that J.K. Rowling doodled faces and characters as she wrote Harry Potter. Hmmm, maybe that’s a better excuse.

LEE SU-HYUN

There is joy in discovering new talents. Especially if it is just a consequence of the BTS rabbit hole that I am (proudly) in now.

Lee Su-hyun, 23, is a delightful singer from South Korea. She is one-half of the brother-and-sister team of Akdong Musician (AKMU), who rose to prominence after winning a talent contest. During her brother’s military enlistment, Su-hyun joined a group of “buskers” or street performers who performed on the streets of Portugal, Hungary, and Italy as part of the “Begin Again” troop.

Begin Again is a musical reality tv show where musicians and singers who were renowned and established in South Korea traveled to these European countries where they were virtually unknown. These singers were like ambassadors of sorts by promoting Korean music to the rest of the world. Instead of the New York subways, they staked their claim in plazas and squares near the lakes of Lisbon and Budapest.

Together with Lena Park, Hareem, and Henry, Su-hyun enthralled the crowds and stopped them on their feet. The faces of the audience reflected their wonder at seeing these talented musicians singing mostly in Korean. They might not have known the words, but the music touched their hearts. Beautiful music transcends the language barrier.

Su-hyun’s soprano voice is melodious, mesmerizing, and soothing. Like Lea Salonga, her voice evokes a Disney princess vibe. Her delivery is effortless, flawless, and hauntingly beautiful. The audience did not have any choice but to be captivated.

And then, as a pleasant surprise, one of my favorite Korean actors, Lee Dong Wook, worked with Su-hyun in the tv show “Sea of Hope” and dueted with her. The ladies were all swooning, I'm sure. Kilig much.

“ERUPTION”

The latest dance craze on TikTok is a remixed version of a Vietnamese pop song “See Tinh”. Enter Eric “Eruption” Tai, who posted videos of himself and his team gyrating to the “ting ting tang tang tang” dance.

Eric is a Tongan-Filipino actor, model, TV host, comedian, and former rugby union player, but he went through hard times before he hit it big with his gaming endorsements but most especially after his Tiktok dance went viral.

How could this 6’1” muscled giant dance so effortlessly and gracefully? I cannot even coordinate my arms and legs without looking awkward. I have no rhythm or symmetry.

BTS CHOREOGRAPHY

My readers know my obsession with the supergroup BTS from South Korea, with all my blog posts gushing about this international group.

Here’s why I like (correction, LOVE) BTS.

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2022/04/why-i-like-bts-and-my-top-10-favorite.html

The 300-plus song catalog of a 13-year career is filled with a variety of songs that cater to all kinds of genres: pop, ballads, hip-hop, rock, R&B, soul, rap, jazz, and electronic dance music (EDM). Their videos are a feast for the eyes, sometimes overwhelming, while others are artistic and dramatic.

The choreography for the upbeat songs is simply amazing. The dance practice videos are exhilarating to watch. Even sans the glitzy costumes, magnificent sets, and fireworks, the dance practices are unbelievable.

How can anyone be so limber? How could they not be gasping for air and out of breath? Their stamina may be attributed to these seven men practicing while on the treadmill. Heck, I get tired just watching them move. Oh, to be young.

PART 3- https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2019/07/guilty-pleasures-part-3-audio-books.html

Guilty Pleasures Part 2- https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2012/12/guilty-pleasures-part-2.html
Guilty Pleasures Part 1- http://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2010/12/on-not-feeling-guilty-about-guilty.html

2022 Year-end Reflections, Hello 2023

2022-12-31T20:56:00.027-08:00

On this last day of 2022, I reflect on the year that was. In the grand scheme of tragedies, wars, poverty, and the continued menace of Covid-19, I can truly say that I am blessed beyond belief.

At our year-end Thanksgiving service in the church, I remembered the moments of blessings and happiness, and I gave thanks for the spiritual guidance from the Almighty God. My gratitude abounds.

I have my own share of ups and downs, disappointments, and trials, but I am hopeful that 2023 will be a better year for all of us. I wish to share and pay forward all the great things I received.

I AM THANKFUL FOR:

Vacation in the Philippines, September 2022

The best thing that happened in 2022 was that I hugged my mother again. Finally, after three years of video calls, I held my 91-year-old Nanay in my arms. She is the reason why we endured the long arduous plane ride to the Philippines; why we suffered through turbulent rides and backside-numbing pains.

In the picture, my mom was actually trying not to laugh because she didn't have her dentures in. She was conscious of her appearance, making sure to wear her perfume every day even though she did not often leave her bedroom anymore due to her weak knees. As long as her favorite tv shows are on, she is content.

Whatever her heart desires, I will always try to give in to her, except on staying at her side for good. Unfortunately, I have to live apart from her and work far away to provide for her. Thankfully, her mind is still sharp as ever. She playfully hinted at a new watch from her grandson Jordan.

All good things had to come to an end. I had a great time reuniting with my extended family, friends, and classmates. My heartfelt thanks to family and friends who made our vacation a fantabulous one.

It was not easy to kiss my mom and the rest of my family goodbye, to wait until the next vacation. But wipe the tears we did, for we had to get back to work.

Beautiful Philippines

Being a tourist in my native country. There are so many hidden gems in this country of 7,100+ islands.

Birthday celebration with family

Far away from the somber 9/11 ceremonies in the US, my birthday this year amongst family and friends was most significant for me. This was the first time I celebrated my special day in Manila after 39 years and the first time since 2001 (21 years) when I didn't feel a smidgen of guilt for celebrating a day more remembered for the attack on the twin towers. In the haze of purple attire and a standee of BTS Jin, there was just peace, happiness, and contentment to be with the people I love.

Life is simple, after all. There is joy when you're surrounded by love, there is no need for an ostentatious celebration. Just celebrating life, although I still cringed when I saw the number 64. I just have to remember that age is just a number and that I am much wiser and more blessed.

Publication

My article “Finding My Joy: Fighting Nurse Burn-out” was published in the Journal of Emergency Nursing November 2022 issue. It was a personal account of my own challenges and journey as a nurse leader during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. I believe that this will resonate with other nurse leaders out there.

Finding My Joy: Fighting Nurse Burn-out

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0099176722001842?dgcid=author&fbclid=IwAR3NTcIkMBZtepK83vnnA_6g-nGp3TqUu5j7Q0cpJbfhLN8igB9D1yQH1VE

Los Cabos, Mexico, for the 1199SIEU Continuing Education Wellness Conference

So thankful to be part of the Instructor team from the #1199SEIU Continuing Education group. The Wellness of the Mind, Body, and Soul conference at Los Cabos, Mexico, offered the topics on Self-care: Building a path to healthy kidneys, DM: Prevention & Health Maintenance, The Search for the true self, and my topic Finding Joy in Nursing. This conference proved that nurses (or any healthcare worker) deserve to take care of and love themselves first to fight burnout. One cannot run on empty.

After the challenges of Covid-19 as front liners, nurses need to recharge and invigorate themselves to find their joy. We all need help to find our purpose and meaning, our "Ikigai."

Hello, 2023.

We all enter the new year with a little uncertainty about what the future holds. But it is full steam ahead for me. No matter what, we will persevere. I will let God take charge of my life.

'Let God Take Charge of Your Life' (No. 457)

My Happy Pictures: Mood-lifters

2022-11-12T12:26:00.015-08:00

Yesterday, I should have been happy to have a day off from work. But the gloomy scene outside my kitchen window was not a great mood-lifter. The hard rain was beating a staccato rhythm against the window pane, the morning skies were cloudy, and the yellow leaves from my backyard tree were valiantly holding off to dear life.

I turned my back from the melancholy and checked my pictures on my phone from my recent hike in Alley Pond Park, where I basked in all of Autumn’s glorious riot of colors. The vibrant red, yellow, and orange foliage filled my heart. I was transported back to those magical moments where the only sounds I heard were the leaves crunching under my feet, the chirping of the birds, the susurration of a brook, and the soft camera clicks from my niece. I was happy.

On my recent trip to Los Cabos, Mexico, I was one of the instructors for the Wellness Conference organized by the 1199 Union organization for their RN members. I taught about finding joy in our personal and professional lives to fight nurse burnout. As the world rises out of the chokehold of the pandemic, healthcare workers are still struggling with the nursing shortage and other hospital inefficiencies.

There are many problems in life, and in healthcare, that may be beyond our control. There are also many ways to cope. Sometimes, the nurses are so consumed with taking care of others that they forget to care for themselves. To continue caring for others, I urged the nurses to love themselves first. Be mindful of self-care and mental health, and actively seek and find joy. Embrace your joy triggers,

I showed photos that make me happy. Pictures are excellent memory prompts to reminisce about happy occasions and serve as our emotional bubble against the troubles of this world. Numerous research has shown the connection between pictures of beloved family members, pets, beautiful scenery, vacations, and the reduction of cortisol and adrenaline hormones. Of course, nothing beats the real thing of feeling the Boracay breeze on your skin, but the picture of pedicured toes on the white sands brings on happy memories.

According to a 2021 Environmental Research and Public Health article, even looking at pictures of nature can calm the brain's orbitofrontal cortex, thereby reducing stress and anxiety. I surreptitiously checked the audience's reaction when I shared my happy photos with the class. The audience reacted as I expected. They ooh’d and aah’d and smiled at the stunning images of nature, cherry blossoms, a beautiful bench in Home Goods, coconut trees and flip-flops, rainbows, and lavender fields.

Happy Kids/Young Ones

Sunrise and Sunsets

Beaches

Fall Foliage

BTS

During the class, I could not help but fangirl. When my favorite band BTS flashed on the screen, a few looked confused (they must be living in a rock if they don’t know the biggest musical group in the world), but several squealed in delight. Of course, I went to my fellow Army and high-fived them.

So, yes, pictures can heal the mind and spirit. They are instant mood-lifters during a gloomy, rainy day. Post pictures in your office, save them to your phones, or buy those digital photo frames to enjoy those reminders that life is wonderful.

"Happy"- Pharell Williams

The Astronaut- Jin of BTS, featuring Coldplay

References:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-happiness-project/201301/7-reasons-why-photographs-can-boost-your-happiness

https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/happiness/selection-of-happiness-images-and-why-they-make-you-feel-good/