My-SECRET-Corner

25 Years ...

2012-01-09T00:01:00.006+08:00

Lorenine Barbie 1 yr Old

January 1987 ~ The greatest gift to humanity is nothing else but the birth of a new life . Unfortunately, to some who where unable to continue their generation their grief is replaced by adopting abandoned or unfortunate children from poor families . I am thankful up to this day that I was one of the chosen gifted ones who can add to the continuation of life and generation of my family. It's now exactly 25 years since my 1st child was born the normal way in the evening of 9th January 1997. She weighs a little over 7 lbs and about 50-51 cms long.

I had a baby girl who's face was so peaceful in her sleep.
I named her Lorenine Barbie .
Lore ~was derived from my own name and I added the word Nine coz she was born on the 9th of January. Then followed by Barbie coz she looks like a doll.
She got long beautiful eyebrows and lots of hair with a rounded angelic face.
Her 1st smile brought me such an enormous priceless joy .

She was brought to me from the nursery a few hours after I gave birth so I can breastfeed her for the very 1st time . Then they took her away again back to the nursery so I can rest and sleep afterwards.
It was such a happy experience to craddle her in my arms and give her a motherly kiss on her chubby cheeks for the very 1st time . She was so beautiful and smells like a bunch of fresh flowers in her baby wrap.

The following morning, the nurses came and told me I should start walking around. Get out of my bed so i can start stretching to avoid catching Pneumonia or bed sores from sweating on my back from laying down all the time. I was dizzy when I got up and felt blood coming out of me when I sat on the side of the bed. Nurses said there's no need to worry .. it's a normal reaction coz I just gave birth. So I tried to get out of my bed slowly and held on the bed rails for support. I need to stand on my own and walk around a bit. My legs were both shaking when I tried to stand up. It wasn't easy but finally did it after few minutes. I walked the hallway passing the other patients in the ward. I think there are more than 50 beds in the room where I was. All like me who just gave birth. I was in the big maternity ward of Fabella Hospital in Manila.

I had about 10 mins walk before I decided to take a rest. Baby Lorenine wrapped in her white n pink baby wrap arrived from the nursery with the nurse. It's time to breastfeed her again and keep her in my bed permanently to give space to other babies coming in the nursery.I was delighted to finally have her with me in my bed. She was hungry so I quickly fed her. But I just noticed after she had fed that she threw up a bit. But I thought it was just a normal reflux. So I just ignored it and cleaned her face. But after few hours ... she keeps giving out liquid from her mouth even thru her nose. She won't breastfeed and she keeps vomitting the milk she had before. I get alarmed. It's been all day and I got worried coz she doesn't want to feed. When the nurses came to check me & her up , I told them about the problem. They advised me to keep watching her till my doctor comes for my daily routine check up .

The nurses informed my doctor about my baby's condition. The doctor came and he immediately checked Baby Lorenine. She'd started to get dehydrated. But no matter how I try to breastfeed and the nurses' attempts to give her bottle feed she won't take any. So the doctor decided to check her belly with a stethoscope . The sound he heard wasn't good so he decided to put an intravenous drip. Baby Lorenine needed to transfer in the Pediatric ward up in the 4th floor so she can be observed more . I was in the maternity ward on the 2nd floor. So I'll have to carry and take her there myself while the nurses ready the necessary things for her. I wrapped her well I walked up the stairs holding unto her tightly while my other hand held on to the handrails while I slowly go up the stairs to the 4th floor. I suddenly feel blood coming out n dripping on my legs down to the steps when I was halfway up the stairs. I just kept moving up the steps slowly on my own with her but I got nervous after a while when i started to have blurry vision. So I stopped and waited for people to come by. Luckily, someone saw the trail of blood on the steps and alerted the nurses to give me some help. They took the baby up to the pediatric ward and a nurse took me to the 1st aid. I was ok after they cleaned me up. I asked them I needed to be with my baby so they kindly assisted me to go up. The building was an old one without lifts for the public so there's no other way but to go up but the stairs!

My heart sank when I heard my baby crying. The sound of her cry is not just due to hunger. But a cry coz she was in severe pain . The doctor assisted with 2 nurses had started poking her with the needles. She was so tiny that they couldn't find a vein big enough to put the needle in . Every poke of the needle into her pinkish skin is a poke into my heart. Oh My God it was such a horrible experience for a 1st time mother like me ! I started to cry ... it's unbearable to see my tiny baby Lorenine crying in pain right infront of me . Worst is I just couldn't even hold to soothe her . It's absolutely devastating !

Seeing me crying , the doctor asked me if I would prefer to stay outside the room while they try to put the needle in . I just nodded my head and stayed there with my baby all the time. I can't leave her alone in pain . I was there to be strong for her coz she herself was strong. She was struggling and kicking her tiny legs a lot .
Just a day old and she has to go through a lot of pain already. This is not fair !
2nd Day ~ Doctors from the pediatric ward came to see baby Lorenine in the morning. She was with the drip and not allowed to be fed . I had not slept well coz I didn't have a bed in that pediatric room. All I have is a chair beside her crib. I had been rubbing a wet cotton on her lips everytime to keep it moist so the lips won't dry and flake. The doctors told me to be ready for some tests & x-ray for her. I got even more nervous. I asked myself - "Is my baby dying ? What's wrong with her ? " She looked very healthy at that time . From the outside , she looked like she's very healthy and got nothing wrong at all . I was confused and problematic coz I was also destitute. I only have very few pesos I had saved for my child birth. In fact to even save more, I gave birth in a charity ward coz I can't afford to be in a private clinic or be attended by a private doctor. So knowing she's gonna be undergoing medical tests gave me a huge amount of stress.

Despite of everything that had happened after that 1st day of her life ...I never stopped to find the final cure for her. I'm a mother who wants nothing else in this world but to see my child well and healthy.

Baby Lorenine about 10 months old .

We had stayed in the hospital for 2 months since she was born coz she was diagnosed with " Megacolon" and she had undergone surgery for colostomy .

Baby Lorenine 3 mos old. A month after she left the hospital

Baby Lorenine at 4 months old with her colostomy.

Lorenine was about 2 yrs old when we went to Puerto Galera, Mindoro Philippines

Her colostomy surgery took her under the knife 5 times and it went on for 5 long years before it was finally closed in 1992 at Lungsod Ng Kabataan ( now called Philippine Children's Medical Center ) under the supervision of a well known Pediairic Surgeon Dr. Leonardo Cua who did a charity surgery for her for free the first time she was operated.

The final surgery being sponsored by a kind hearted Australian Guy Mr. Don Mentz of CAB International who readily volunteered to support her medical expenses upon seeing her condition.. A guy with a big heart and one who acted like a father to me who passed away few years ago due to a heart attack. May his soul rest in peace.
.

Lorenine had showed me enormous anount of courage even when she was just a tiny baby. She was my inspiration in life and she had pushed me a lot to be strong and to never ever give up on hope. Have a positve way of thinking and always convince myself that there's always light at the end of the dark tunnel.

There are several attempts to close her colostomy. The 4th attempt she almost died due to some fever and complications. But she was strong and so was I. We never gave up on each other... If there's a will ... there's a way ...I kept telling that to myself.

For sure, there's someone up there watching over us I know .

The Black Nazarene

Quiapo Church at night .

The Shrine of the "BLACK NAZARENE" inside Quiapo Church.

By coincidence or perhaps by pure luck , she was born on the day of the feast for " The Black Nazarene " found in the church of Quiapo . This is one major event in the history of the Church attended by thousands of devotees every year.

The most unforgettable day when Lorenine got fever after her operation. She was immedtely transferred in the intensive care and given a lot of attention by her attending surgeon.

Recovery time for her ...

Her little brother Meier is keeping Lorenine company in the hospital during the day .

Our lives spent going in n out of the hospitals for the first five years of her life, made both us and our bond much even stronger.

I had surpassed so much aches just like her.
We both came out as survivors.
Our struggles had paid off.
Now she even had given way to a new life herself .

Visiting Lorenine in hospital after she gave birth prematurely to Rhendolf who stayed in the incubator for few days.

My grandson Rhendolf was her 1st born .

Lorenine on her wedding day in Dec 2010

I was happy both of them are healthy despite of what she's been through .

Today , 9th of January 2012 is Lorenine's 25th Birthday and the feast of The Black Nazarene !
I just would like to tell her how much I love her and wishing all devotees of the Black Nazareen a safe & wonderful day !

HAPPY 25th BIRTHDAY !!!

2011 ... At A Glance !

2012-01-01T21:44:00.006+08:00

Hello 2012 - Goodbye 2011

I'm kind of speechless today ... a new year had started hours ago greeted by fireworks seen from the 2nd floor terrace of my humble home here in the town of Sta. Cruz, Laguna Philippines .

Sta. Cruz , Laguna Philippines

This is the 1st time in 16 years that I had celebrated Christmas & New Year with my own family back here in my hometown.

Relatives from even far away places came to visit and I was able to see them after so many years ! The best part is seeing my mom happy being with her sisters . My aunties whom my mom hardly see and be with. Even the gathering of young children in my family is fun and wacky to see ...

I felt much happier compared to the last few years ! Indeed the feeling of happiness is overwhelmong although in a corner near my heart I have this pain knowing my 2 younger children where back in Perth away from me and were not able to join the fun.This is the very 1st time I ever left them for almost a month . Leaving them on their own with their father makes me sad coz I know it's not easy without me managing with them. Oh well .. time is moving on and they're growing up. About time they learn to manage themselves too. I'm sure they would do ok . Soon I'll be home anyways .

2011 is now over but memories of the year that had passed would forever linger and bring back the smile as well as tears spent with certain events in my life . The last 2 years had been a constant roller coaster ride for me and I did held on tight to whatever for dear life and constant search for happiness.

My stay in Perth for over a year now yielded more struggle to overcome loneliness and stress brought about by personal problems. But as a cliche goes " No one can put a good man down !". So I'm here proudly with my chin up high to prove that I'm still firm where I stand !

I 'm well blessed to have the strenght to keep my wits together and have my loyal good friends scattered in different parts of the world always running to my side. How I love them all dearly.

Preparation of beads for a crocheted wire design .

The finished wire crochet beaded necklace proudly worn by a good friend of mine who bought it while I was travelling in Singapore. last Dec 2011.

My beads ... how I love my craft materials which are my constant companion in the wee hours of the night. They are my most trusted buddies distracting me from thinking about my personal problems and helping me somehow financially. Not only I gained materially but I also earned respect and admiration from friends I had known before and to new friends I meet along the way when I attended the bazaars to sell my handcrafted jewelries.

The Australians are very nice people to hang around with . Especially those I had met during the craft bazaars and those I had come across with last November from the Living Faith community church. Somewhere somehow I felt like I had a new found family who takes me in no matter who I am . The feeling was great ... awesome .. and I enjoy coming to meet them every Sunday morning in the community church.

.

Not only these people adopted me but they also supported my jewelries. For the month of Dec., I had sold almost all the angel themed car charms, key chains I had made to support some charities.

I do thank you all for your support and wishing everyone a

Happy New Year 2012.

Flowers on the front entrance of the International School Of Western Australia

Community Church Fete ... Come & Join Us!

2011-11-21T13:34:00.004+08:00

My phone rang around noontime while I was by the kitchen one late afternoon. It was my friend Anne telling me about a lady called Stefanie who's interested about my jewelries and willing to share a table in a community fair. I was delighted knowing I can again put my stuffs on public display ..Yehheeeyyyyyyy!

Twilight Crystal & Pearls earrings with 925 Sterling Silver Flower Hooks Price : AUD$35
Design Comes with Matching Necklace & Bracelet Which are Sold separately !

Swarovski Crystals & Pearls Weaved Bangles $25 / $30

Anne gave me her contact nos. and told me to give her a call the soonest possible. I did gave her a call after 2 days and we agreed to meet up on a Monday aroungd 9am after I drop the kids off to school in the place where the fair would be held. The fete as they call it would be inside the premises of a community church located in Grant St., Innaloo.

Took me just a few minutes from school to reach the exact place and Stefanie was there on the side road on a verge waving at me. Pleasant & cheerful lady who I had happened to meet a few months back in hubby's office opening party in the city. She recognized me easily but it took me a while to figure out where I had seen her familiar face ... ha-ha.

She gave me a few info about the area surrounding the "Living Faith Community Church " & what the fair is all about . It's the very 1st time they're conducting a fair in there so she doesn't have that much ideas what to do and how to get more people to come into the venue yet. It's good that they have some printed flyers ready for distribution . I can have some given to parents in the school during kids' pick up in late afternoon.

The place for the fair is well lighted with ceiling fans, lots of hanging cabinets for New & 2nd hand clothings and other bric-a-brac ! It's indoor but well ventillated and has good airconditioning which I had felt while sitting there for a while talking to Stefanie . There are clean & nice toilets plus a little cooking area on the side by the end of the hall where the food for the fair would be handled for the guests & attendees. Nice grass patched areas outside on the church's front lawns where vendors' and the buying public can easily park their cars during the venue too.

I saw the trestle tables piled neatly in one of the corners and had seen some electrical outlet which is perfect for my lightings. She told me that the table would cost $50 for the day and the money goes straight into the church fund. I had decided to get 2 tables since I 've got loads of stuffs and she can as well put some of her bags for sale into one of the tables to mix with some of my bags & shawls . She only got a few pieces so I don't mind giving her some space on my table.

Based on my years of experiences attending numerous fairs, I gave her some tips on raffle draw prizes and should mandatory tell vendors for a gift donation to go to the raffle draw prizes. She was happy to learn more things from me and I was more than glad to help their community fair.

It doesn't cost much to be of help to others ...
It's always better to give ... than to receive !

So folks , again , don't forget the date ... it's for this coming Saturday , 26th of November.
Bring your family , kids , friends even pets along for a fun filled day full of surprises and gifts ...
Thanks again for your upcoming support and see you there !

Gifts , Collectibles & More Beads in the Craft Fairs ...

2011-11-19T18:27:00.002+08:00

Nov 19, 2011 -Saturday ~ I woke up this morning at exactly 9:45am and I told myself ... gee it was so quiet in the house today ! My 2 kids were off to a sleep-over and hubby had gone a long time ago for his half day office work. Hmmmm what an alone time where I can enjoy every minute of it LOL. But anyways, I leisurely took a quick shower coz I wanted to visit a fair " Craft , Antiques & Collector's Fair " in Claremont showgrounds which had started yesterday. I don't want to miss the opportunity to see the event and the numerous stalls they have in there. It must be sprawling huge having about 350 vendors with all sorts of stuffs to sell. Must be an exciting fair to see hmmmmm. Wanna have a look if they got any jewelries similar to mine too . He-he sneaky me !

http://www.treasuredcraftcreations.com.au/

Before I could get out of our house my mobile phone rang. I said oh no ! Who can be calling me on a Saturday morning when kids n hubby were not home . I answere and it was my daughter asking me to be there in 15 mins to pick her up n her brother . Oh well ... here we go again with kids asking me to go here there and everywhere aarrgghhhhh! So poor me has to go directly to them and pick them up ... got no choice do I ?
Running out of gas on the way back, I have to fill up the gas tank coz my meter was already blinking and son was nagging to take him to the skatepark nearby. I firmly said no coz now is time that I do something for myself . So tank is full and off we went to the Fair ... no more questions asked huh !

I know I would be seeing lots of interesting stuffs in the said fair coz I'd never been in any Vintage Antique fair at all. Surely what I like would not be interesting for my kids. Vintage & Antiques ? For me some are really wow ... but my kids ? They just hate it ... oh well , the new generation prefers more techno n modern look these days . Everytime I touched n looked at something ... they say oh no mom ... don't even think about it ! Oh Dear !

Browsing here & there, stall upon stall of handmade wares by local designers and artists delighted me. I noticed several jewelry shops too. Pearls and glass beads are all over the place. But, they don't have the type of designs I make . More intricate handiwork with Swarovski Crystals like I create is not a common site there. Most of the pieces I found are simply strung or with Focal glass pendants hung in a cord. I Love the glass focal beads and several shops are doing their own glass beads really well. Interesting pieces ! Although What caught my eye on the last row of the Arts n Crafts section was the wirewrapped pearls very similar to mine.The shop was called "KEEP UP WITH THE JONES" by Elaine & Sarah Jones. Interesting Necklace sets and the prices are very affordable. Pity I didn't take any picture in the said stall coz I'm not sure if I'm allowed to take any in the venue . I'm not sure if they have a website ... shame . They really got good stuffs in there. Their items looked very similar to mine pictured below :

A few mmore stops here n there and I discovered several beading components shops in the fair just like Galaxy Beads of galaxybeads.com.au which has a shop in Morley .I had already visited their beadshop several months ago. Oh wow I'd been all over these bead shops in Perth LOL.

My kids are complaining " Mom come let's go ... we are bored ! " I said " hey ... if you can help me find what I need here , then we can go home soon." I said I need to find Pigs or Angels for my collection. So off we went to the Antiques part of the fair and started searching in all those cabinets and piles of stuffs on display. We finally came to a halt when I saw these pigs in just 1 shop ! Hurray ...

The Big Pig about 1.5 inches and 2 mini ones about 2 cms only cost a total of $7.00 ... well, not bad ! I was happy to get out of there with my pigs in hand ha-ha . So are my kids too who had started walking back to the car while nibbling on the Chocolates & Fudge we had bought from one of the chocolate shops ...

they are absolutely yummy and good for those with a sweet tooth like my daughter and me !

Wanna have some ?

Just don't forget , tomorrow is the last day of the Fair and last chance to get some real bargains.

Good word of advice :

Bring enough cash !

Hello November ... What's Up ?

2011-11-04T22:25:00.001+08:00

Oh I thought it's still month of October. Gee... not until I found out on my schedule two days ago that I again have to bring my jewelries for display and sales at the Parent's Group meeting at International School Of Western Australia ( ISWA) on the 3rd of Nov. 2011. Hmmmmm ... time really flies fast these days!

I still have loads of newly created beaded jewelries so I didn't worry much on creating new pieces for the event.

What I'd been worried about was the cleaning of our house the last few days coz I have the real estate agent coming over the same day for the inspection of our place.

I had swept the whole backyard garden all day exactly 3 days ago. Oh, God knows how my back ached like hell at the end of that day. Never again i will sweep that yard coz 2 days after, the dead leaves came back on the grass again falling out from the trees all around. What a waste of all my efforts. The garden was messy again especially yesterday after seeing it in the morning littered with almost half of a tree that fell down due to strong winds during the night ! Oh My God !

Lucky the broken tree didn't fall during the time I was standing with my broom under it while removing the dead leaves from the grass. What a lucky escape for me ! I can surely say that someone up there is watching over me and it's not the end of the world yet for me ... Yeeessssss!

Anyways, I have to rush to school with kids and all my stuffs in the car at 8:15am. So no time to worry much about the fallen tree. I can't do anything about it anyways. The agent will surely deal with it and have it cleared for us.

The parent Group meeting being done every 1st Thursday of the month started at 9am. The jewelries were laid on the velvet covered table I had brought in myself and everything was fully set up when the meeting started. I even had viewers and buyers even before the meeting had started! Wow ... what a show of support . I appreciate the attention given to my creations. It's heart warming really.

2 hours of selling in the drama room where the meeting was held was again successful just like the 1st time I came to this venue to sell. I even met new parents who just arrived in Perth with their children enjoying their 1st weeks in ISWA.
Welcome again to all the new families in ISWA!
I wish you all a pleasant stay in Perth just like me & my children do.

Anyways, I would like to thank again the organizers of the meeting for allowing me to be there with my jewelries. A million thanks again and I'm glad I can contribute a percentage of all sales to the school charity fund.

Many, many thank you ladies for all your support & patronage !

Photo courtesy of : http://www.birthstones.org.uk/birth-month-flowers/november-birth-flower.htm

November Birth Flower
The November Birth Flower is the Chrysanthemum
The meaning of the November Birth Flower, the Chrysanthemum is With Love and Cheerfulness

Information about the November Birth Flower, the Chrysanthemum
Definition of the Chrysanthemum: A genus of composite plants, mostly perennial, and of many species including the many varieties of garden chrysanthemums (annual and perennial)

The November Birth Flower, the Chrysanthemum is also called the 'mum'

The flower has been cultivated for the last 2,000 years

The name "Chrysanthemum" is derived from the Greek words "chrysos" meaning gold and "anthos" meaning flower

According to the beliefs of Feng Shui, chrysanthemums are believed to bring laughter and happiness to the home

An ancient Chinese city was named Chu-Hsien, meaning "chrysanthemum city"

Craft Fairs in Perth WA ...

2011-10-30T16:25:00.004+08:00

It's been exactly a week since I had attended for the very 1st time one of the biggest known Craft Fair here in Perth, Western Australia.. The Subiaco Craft and Community Fair, the Biggest Outdoor Craft and Community Event in Western Australia was held last week , 23rd October 2011 at the Oak lawn of the University of Western Australia.

I considered myself lucky being able to secure a stall for my jewelries and I am really thankful to the organizers for accepting my application to be one of the stallholders there during that day. I was a bit nervous coz I didn't have any experience being in any Craft Fair yet here in Perth so this event is gonna be totally new to me I don't have any idea what to expect. I just told myself that it would be a trigger that would open a whole new door of opportunities and an eye opener for me.

I consider myself as a Jack of all trades, doing a one man show . Why ?

I was all alone during that day multi-tasking on my own. That's why. From the organizing of what things to take for display until 4am of the day of the event ( geee... I need some sleep don't I ? ) , to the packing and loading into my car on an early morning of Sunday ( I had even over slept coz I went to sleep only at around 4am after I had boxed everything I'm gonna take to the fair . I was thankful to my dear 12 y/o son who woke me up at 7am in the morning of Sunday , he was asking me " Mommy, isn't your fair for your jewelries today ? " I immediately flew out of bed hearing him ! whew I was running late . Was supposed to be at the unloading place by 7am ... arrrgghhhh ! ) , hurriedly ( without even thinkin og breakfast at all ) , I drove my poor car for the delivery of my stuffs to the venue ( thanks a lot to the volunteers who wheel barrowed my boxes to my table while I go park my car... good job guys , Thanks so much ! ) , to the setting up , to the never ending sales talk under the heat of the burning sun all day long ( I got no gazebo at all so I just hid under my neighbor's shade LOL ! ) and again to the packing up at the end of the day. Indeed i was very tired ... very, very tired ! So tired that i didn't have any energy left to cook dinner. I just dozed off on my bed even before dinner was served ! Hubby took care of my kids food that night ... yupppeeee ! I was snoring like an angel ha-ha !

But i had a great smile despite of the fatigue and backaches after all the work coz I did great with my sales and a friend with her family came to visit and support me too. Hey Dolores, many thanks for lending me your umbrella ... but I can't hold it all the time coz I need to talk and fit the jewelries to my buyers . So holding an umbrella is not that easy ha-ha. I guess, i will have to invest for a Gazebo next time ... good idea !

I am so glad I had met a lot of awesome people who really liked my jewelries that day too . To all my buyers and jewelry admirers, many thanks for being there for me. I will surely be coming to the next fairs especially just for you guys ... muaaahhhhhh!

My most admired items and sold fast were my hand weaved crystal bracelets and beaded rings .

Here are some of the sold items :

Note down on your calendar :

My next big Fair would be on the 3rd of December , 2011

Craft Thyme - Perth's most unique gift & craft extravaganza

Xmas

Gift - Craft Home Fair

Saturday December 3rd

9.30am-3.30pm

South Perth Community Centre

Cnr Sandgate St & South Tce

Come & Visit

My-SECRET-CORNER's

Stall There ...

Admission: $4 adult’s - kids FREE

Hope to see you all there ...

October Birth Flower
The October Birth Flower is the Calendula (Marigold), as shown in the above picture
Meaning of the October Birth Flower:
The meaning of the October Birth Flower, the Calendula (Marigold) is sorrow or sympathy

Flower photo excerpt from : http://www.birth-flower.com/Library/OCT/

Down The Road ... to Bunbury !

2011-10-21T15:08:00.000+08:00

Friday, 21st October 2011 ~ 8:00am ... at last I was finally driving beside the front lawn of 20 Bourke St. The place of " http://www.wishwarebeads.com.au/ " in Bunbury , WA. I had first way passed it and ended up in Target Shopping center. But most of the shops are still closed along that strip coz it's way too early still so I have no chance to stroll around knowing for sure I won't be seeing anything anyways. Sigghhhhhh. So I took the round about back to other side of the main road looking for Rose st. somewhere to my right side connecting to Bourke St. where the beadshop was situated. Lucky , I easily found Bourke St just being a street behind the main road .

http://www.wishwarebeads.com.au/

The beadshop was still closed though coz it's only open for business at 8:30am. Hmmmm ... oh dear me ... got to wait a bit more ... arrgghhhhhh. I even wondered where I would park the car since infront of the shop was a green lawn ... hmmmmm. Ok I still got few minutes so i drove around the neighborhood for a bit of navigation and some sight-seeing. Sandridge Rd is the main road that resembles Scarborough Beach Rd in Perth with all the big business establishments ( Harvey Norman, Bunnings, The Good Guys, Target, BigW .. etc. ) being side by side and all these motor sales shops. Even the famous Harley Davidson shop is there ... geeeeeee

My kids are in camp for 5 days and only back today late in the afternoon while my hubby was in Melbourne for business trip. Our house was big enough to keep me real busy but still, housechores bored me to death and I'm tired of seeing the things to clean lol. I am all alone so I need to be out somehow and see something new around me to entertain myself. So I decided to drive to Bunbury for 2 hrs straight to check the Beadshop I had been longing to visit since last year.

My butt was hurting from 2 hours of sitting in the car driving straight there and another 2 hours driving back to Perth hoping I have enough time to pick up the kids from school after thir camp drop off at 4:30pm ... OMG! What even made me nervous was I just stole my hubby's car which is newly polished and cleaned uh-oh really naughty me. It was full tank too ha-ha. Well, my car cannot drive so far coz aside from an empty tank, the threads of the front wheels are already sticking out like porcupine lol!

I guess today is really my luckiest day, I made it back to Perth early enough despite of my single journey with the car & my smart phone taking pictures here there n everywhere ... what an accomplishment lol!

Anyways, back to my beads mission, WishWare Beads is a bead shop I saw in Australian beading magazines many times before. I also checked its website where I happen to even saw a special pendant made of resin with Eiffel Tower in it as the theme. I got my eye for that piece ... and hoping I could get hold of it and also find an angel charm or bead or anything with an angel in it for souvenir from their shop.

Unfortunately, The Eiffel Resin pendant was not in the shop despite of Louise ( the young owner ) was personally assisting me with her mom.

I just found a pair of Eiffel themed resin Earrings in antique gold tone hanging in an eiffel tower wire stand on top of a glass cabinet . The earrings looked so fantastic and uniquely mounted on a wodden scrabble tile . It made me so happy as a puppy ha-ha. I prefer to have these unique creations and go home with it rather than be there in the shop and come out with nothing .

I also found a nice oval resin pendant with an angel in it ( pictured above with their business card ) . The Angel pendant was only 1 piece in the glass cabinet and it's a sure absolute WOW!

Overall, my trip the down road to Bunbury produced a wonderful memory all in all.
Nice view, friendly people and excellent souvenir to cherish .

Many thanks to Louise of http://www.wishwarebeads.com.au/ for being helpful & accommodating , my regards to your lovely mom & dad for assisting me too and also to your lovely adorable fluffy cat .

Flowers in a garden in Bunbury ...

My Latest Beadroom !

2011-10-01T17:03:00.168+08:00

Ohhh My !

A New Beginning ... Again ... ???

So here I am today creating a blog for my poor beadroom which had been neglected for almost a year after moving here in Perth last year 2010. I still have beads sealed in boxes ! Aaaarrgghhhhhh ....

You know what ? I have not even unpacked all of my beads in boxes from the sudden overseas move from Singapore to Perth in August 2010 last year . Then here I go again with another move to a new place. Luckily, it was just a local move within Perth.

Ohhh,,,Thank God !

The Beadroom in 2005 (Singapore )

The Beadroom Guarded by my Sharpei Dog "ZUMA" in 2005-2006

The Beadroom in 2007

The Beadroom in 2008

The Beadroom in 2009

The Beadroom from 2009-2010 ( Singapore )

My beadroom had morphed from a big space in Singapore last year to a tiny dimly lit room here in Perth when we arrived here last year . The room was so small n dark that most of my stuffs were kept sealed in the boxes. I hardly even go in there too ... it was too gloomy in there !

The Beadroom with it's tiny space in 2010 ( Wayeela Place, Perth )

In Wayeela Place in Perth, there's no place to put all of my boxes of beads into the small room ! The room is just 1/3 the original size of the beadroom in Singapore before ... Grrrrrrr

Now with our second move to the new house again here in Perth , my beadroom is again in the process of morphing in a bright 2nd floor room. I feel real glad this time coz the room is of good size eventhough no built in cabinets or drawers except for a clothes hanging cabinet . There's lots of light coming on both corners of the room and it is morning sunlight that greets me immediately when I walk in there in the morning !

No cabinets or drawers for my stuffs ? No problem, Like as usual I used my creative mind to accommodate my things on the wall like installing the mess wires on the hanging bars. See this :

Great idea indeed !

I'm contented thus being able to organize the room about 80% immediately after 3 days of unpacking the boxes !

The New Beadroom in Perth WA . Photo Taken in Sept 2011

My new book / magazine rack from IKEA .

Beadroom at night when the blinds are closed .... I just love my plastic stackable drawers. They make such a great storage ... they're absolutely so neat & tidy !

Lights were installed under the table so I can see what's in the drawers down the floor ...

Whew... forget about the other boxes in the other rooms coz my beadroom is the only place in this house with thousands of stuffs to clear ha-ha . I'm happy each n everyday being able to mingle with my beads & craft stuffs. They help shift my mind into something more creative & productive rather than drowning myself deep into my personal problems brewing in & out of home.

Home Sweet Home ... Is it ?

Flowers by the front door garden of my new home in Nedlands, Perth WA

SEPTEMBER GIVEAWAY !

2011-09-24T17:00:00.001+08:00

The Angels are waiting for You !

~ September Giveaway -

The month of September is almost ending but the fun and surprises are still coming. I had been fooling around with Facebook these past few days and getting hooked to some new found ways of getting more friends, viewers and most of all fun and surprises.

This is Something Not To be Missed !!!!

So What's the catch to get this lovely pair of Angel earrings ?

Well, All You have to do is to simply go to this Link in Facebook :

Like Us On Facebook

Once you are there, Then click the " Like" box.

For added chances of getting the pair of Angel earrings you can also do the following :

- Follow this Blog or Join this site

- Tweet about My-SECRET-Corner on Twitter or

-Simply leave a comment here in my Blog after you had done any of the above.

Isn't that so cool & easy ?
There are 3 pairs up for grabs !

3 Lucky Winners will be notified via facebook or Blogger.

Even Postage is Free !

Thanks For Your Visit

Goodluck !

Latest Jewelries For September ...

2011-09-03T21:37:00.001+08:00

WHAT'S NEW FOR SEPTEMBER ?

Here are some of the jewelries I had created recently . Some are still available for sale while some of them didn't even reach the point of being tagged in my inventory coz they're immediately sold LOL.

Swarovski Crystal & Rose Quartz Vermeil Earrings

Price : AUD$40

6 Strands Burgundy Pearls / Opalite Necklace

925 Sterling Silver

Price: AUD$120

Swarovski Crystal Bracelet

Price : AUD$75

( SOLD )

Teal Blue Multi Stranded Pearl & Crystal Necklace

925 Sterling Silver

Price : AUD$120

Swarovski Crystals / Snow Quartz Earrings

925 Sterling Silver

Price : AUD$40

( SOLD )

Swarovski Crystal Balls Earrings

925 Sterling Silver

Price AUD$35

( SOLD )

St. Petersburg Blue Sapphire Crystal Necklace

Price : AUD$80

( SOLD )

Hemalyke / Agate Long Necklace

925 Sterling Silver

Price: AUD$100

Double Strands Ocean Jasper / Agate with Swarovski Crystal Necklace

Price : AUD$120

Double Stranded Blue Lace Agate with Crystals & Pearls Necklace

925 Sterling Silver

Price: AUD$120

5 Strands Fresh Water Pearls /Crystal Necklace

925 Sterling Silver

Price : AUD$120

Most are with Multi-stranded Pearls, Swarovski Crystals , Seed beads enhanced with 925 Sterling Silver components for the final touch. Prices indicated above are inclusive of packaging either in a gift box or organza drawstring pouch as well as handling & postage.

Sample of a Gift Box

Sample of An Organza Drawstring Pouch

At this point of time, I'm running low of some items like certain colors of Swarovski bicone crystals & 925 Sterling Silver findings .

So I'm hoping I can travel soon and pass Singapore to replenish my stocks. I had checked the internet for Sterling Silver caps, spacers , etc. but the prices are way too high exclusive of shipping charges as well. Oh dear ! I also do prefer to buy my stocks by handpicking them so I can see and feel the actual item before I purchase them just to make sure I'm getting good quality / value for my money.

For now, all I can do is for me to just really cross my fingers and pray that I hop into a plane to Singapore and travel to buy my stuffs from my regular sellers.

Please , please, please let me go soon ........

September Birth Flower

The September Birth Flower is the Aster

The meaning of the September Birth Flower, the Aster is Love, Faith, Wisdom and symbolizes Valor

Sign of the Zodiac and Dates:

Virgo - August 24 - September 22

An Affair To Remember ...

2011-09-02T11:57:00.000+08:00

Wow it's been several months since I last posted here. I'd been again missing in action somehow. Well I was actually very occuppied by too many little things coming out here there and everywhere here in Perth. Eventhough my y life hadn't changed much from being a busy mom in n out of the house I do reveal that I am having much harder time these days as there are more loads of work to take for having no helper at home to manage with housechores. Oh well , lucky I'm pretty much used to the work schedules now and no one complains if ever I just ignored the mess and piles of laundry and clothes to iron in our home nowadays . Coz if ever they do . I 'll scream out loud in the end and tell them to do the work undone then. Huh ! But of course , they just kept quiet giving me more peaceful moments to give me more room to move around without pressure, knowing I'll be the one and the only one to manage with all the mess like as usual at the end of the day anyways. The normal way of life of a typical mom ... ohhhhh !

A new month ( September ) had begun yesterday and oh it was well started for a change . OMG ! I just hope it goes all the way for the whole month ( fingers crossed ! ) . I had created several pieces of jewelries by the the last week of August in between fever & dizziness ( there's no way to stop me from making even I'm sick LOL ) just in time for the school event this week. After being sick with cold n flu for several days & still having got the cough , I'm ready to bring my stuffs and myself to the venue. My body pains and fever had been busted by few sips of PANADOL Lemzip luckily for me, huh !

I had my 12 y/o son advised the night before to wake me up early so I can load my jewelries and display racks into the car for the Parents Group Monthly Meeting 9am event on 1st Sept , Thursday in the ( ISWA ) International School of Western Australia here in Perth. It was the last night of August , I'm sure with the creating and pricing ,sorting and packing of jewelries to take to school , I will be very tired and as good as dead in bed . If without an alarm or someone to really shake me to wake me up in the next morning it would be absolutely pretty hard . With much delight, dear son obediently did woke me up at 7:15am yesterday morning. Good boy and well done Tristan muaaahhhhh !

So off all my jewelries n stuffs in the trunk of the car, by the front seat, as well as in between the kids by the back passenger seats.I'm so glad my "WICKA" car is spaceous enough to accommodate all my stuffs . My daughter was quite excited to know I'm bringing my stuffs to sell in school. She's one proud avid fan of my designs and workmanship and always asking if I had sold much during events.

Anyway, I was by the school carpark by 8:20am and started to unload my stuffs into a newly bought trolley from Bunnings Warehouse to ease the transport of my goods into the Drama Studio hall where the venue is. I used to have a good trolley I always used to move my stuffs but my helper was not able to load it into the mover container in Singapore last year when we moved out of Singapore. How I miss that good sized trolley big time !

Some of the mothers where already there dropping their kids off to school and some taking their early morning coffee bought from an invited Coffee van parked outside the school. Jill the new Leader of the Parent's Group was there waiting for me and she quickly helped me carry some of my things especially the 2 detachable plastic tables. Thanks so much for the great help Jill .

Parents Group Monthly Meeting 9am

Start Date: Thursday 1st September, 2011

End Date: Thursday 1st September, 2011

Location: Drama Studio

The parent's meeting is being conducted on a monthly basis . Focused on the 1st Thursday of each month highlighting the past and present activities of kids and the school . Also informing all parents of the funds available and what had been spent for where and what purposes. Some vendors are invited for the event inorder to raise funds for the group's activities as well as things much needed for the school . I was happy to be invited and do my share of charity for the month of September. 10% of all sales go to the charity fund . It's for me a great pleasure and a wonderful feeling to be of help too.

After a year of my move here in Perth from Singapore, I was finally able to display my works again. It's a good way of exposure and letting people know that if they need to buy gifts or have their precious beaded pieces repaired, I'm always here for them ., rain or shine ! I'm just a phone call away or they can just always approach me in the school. I'm there almost everyday taking the kids' lunches.

Here are some of my sold pieces to happy buyers :

Delica Beads Cleopatra Necklace

Spiral Rope Pearl Fringe Necklace

Swarovski Crystal Necklace

#GBER161 = Blue & Red

#GSE214 = Agate & Pearls

100% Pashmina Shawls . Wrap / Scarf

Not only I was able to sell jewelries during the event. My Pashmina shawls did made a good sale as well ! I still got a good pile of it in several colors although the red ones had sold out as well as the baby blue ones.

To everyone who came to the meeting and to those who supported me , thanks so much. I would be back in the event in November so watch out for the new collection of Jewelries perfectly designed for upcoming December Holidays. They are surely great as Christmas presents ...

So the ISWA Parent's group meeting on the 1st Thursday of each month is an Affair to Remember in your calendars !

Please note it down & Thanks for all the support !

September Birth Flower

The September Birth Flower is the Aster

The meaning of the September Birth Flower, the Aster is Love, Faith, Wisdom and symbolizes Valor

Sign of the Zodiac and Dates:

Virgo - August 24 - September 22

2011-05-17T11:42:00.002+08:00

~ CREATIONS For MAY ~

I had been quite a busy bee for a few nights a week ago when kids were already fast asleep cuddled in their beds . While I was left all alone finally infront of my laptop rejoicing and telling myself that at last ... I can go online and check what's on . Happilyy knowing that at last my laptop was finally free for me ( kids do their homework using my pc so I need to queue for the chance to use it ! ) With my eyes wide open before midnight like an owl looking for a prey at night, I was figuring out what to do first of all . Make a decision to either update my sites ( my poor website http://www.my-secret-corner.com/ needs urgent attention now as compared to my ebay site. AAArrrggghhhhh ! ) or to maybe create some new blings when I perfectly know that I still got loads of creations hiding in the corners of my beading room LOL.
In between never ending chats and sneaking into my emails which is undeniably always bombarded by " Add Me " as a friend notices from people I had never ever seen before. Hmmnnnnnn let me think ..., ok, decision was made ... I can't resist the hands that always point to the direction of what else ... Beading !

So here are the fruits of my night labor for you to enjoy ...

#CCUFF32= MAHARAJAH CUFF
CRYSTAL BRACELET
Price: AUD$70.00

Chevron stitch was used to make the base of this 2.5cms width x 20cms lenght Cuff style bracelet. Swarovski bicone crystals were used to add more life and sparkle to the gorgeous colors. Japanese glass seed beads were the main base secured nicely with 3 rows gold plated slide bar lock.

Also available in set of bracelet / earrings for AUD$75.00

Matching pair of earrings as shown below can be sold separately.

#CD242 = MAHARAJAH CRYSTAL
PRICE: AUD$30.00

Handwoven crystal beaded earrings with Emerald color Swarovski Bicones / Tangerine transparent Matsuno Japanese glass seed beads matched with antique gold plated metal findings.

Measures about 6,5 cms including hooks.

#CRBR75 =EMERALD SPIRAL ROPE
CRYSTAL BRACELET
Price:AUD$45.00

Hand beaded elegant Spiral Rope Emerald / Topaz AB Crystal Bracelet with metallic bronze delicas and purple luster japanese Toho seed beads. Secured with stamped 14k gold plated vermeil lobster clasp and findings.

Measures approximately about 20cms.

#CD242 = EMERALD & TOPAZ
CRYSTAL EARRINGS
PRICE: AUD$25

Emerald Crystal beaded earrings matched with Topaz AB crystal bicones and round beads.
Measures about 5cms including hooks.

All metals used are Antique Gold Vermeil.

Vermeil is a more expensive version of gold plated jewelry. It consists of a sterling silver base that is coated or plated with gold. And again, if the longest lifespan is in the first place for you, your option is vermeil or gold filled jewelry. Vermeil jewelry wears off less than gold plated one

Article courtesy of :

Sterling Silver Chains - gem-fashion.com is your online jewelry store, offers classic collection of men's silver chains. Figaro, curb, mariner, bali.

#CD243 = EMERALD & RUBY
CRYSTAL EARRINGS
PRICE: AUD$25

Emerald & Ruby colors Bicones / Round Swarovski Crystal beaded earrings .

Measures about 5cms including hooks.

All metals used are Antique Gold Vermeil.

#CRBR76 =EMERALD & RUBY SPIRAL ROPE
CRYSTAL BRACELET
PRICE: AUD$45

Hand beaded Spiral Rope Emerald / Ruby Colors Crystal Bracelet with metallic bronze delicas and purple luster Japanese Toho seed beads. Secured with stamped 14k gold plated vermeil lobster clasp and findings.

Measures approximately about 20cms.

#GBER135 = SIMPLY GREEN
GLASS BEADED EARRINGS
PRICE: $35.00

Twisted Oval designer glass beads with 925 Bali Sterling Silver Findings for a very sophisticated look.

Measures about 5.5cms including hooks.

#CD235 = CRYSTAL SWIRLS ( Teal )
PRICE: AUD$30.00

Swarovski Crystals / Gold & Emerald Seed beads hand woven earrings .

Measures about 7cms including hooks.

All metals used are Antique Gold Vermeil

#GSE203 = RIO IN MY DREAMS
GLASS BEADED EARRINGS
AUD$25.00

Glass briolette drop earrings wrapped with glass seed beads & Carnelian rondelles.
Finished off with antique brass fish hooks.
Measures about 6.5 cms

#CD234 = TEAL SQUARE
CRSTAL EARRINGS
PRICE: AUD$30

Citrine Briollete Crystals / Designer glass beads hand wrapped earrings .

Measures about 6.5 cms including hooks.

All metals used are 925 Sterling Silver

After all I had created , it's about time I hit a break and go for my favorite past time. By the beach ... lay on the sand and let the whole world pass me by ...

Oh Well ... just like everybody else,

I do really need some quality time and pampering for myself too ...

and I guess I really deserve it !

Don't you think so ?

Thanks For Visiting My Blog !

First of May , 2011 ...

2011-05-01T21:42:00.016+08:00

The Month of May

Where does the name May come from?: After the Greek Goddess of fertility Maia
What is the color of May?: Green for fertility.
What is the birthstone of May?

Emeralds are said to be the birthstone of May.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emerald

Birth Flower for May

The Flower for May is the Hawthorn Bush.

... which has little flowers with white petals that come out in May, hence it is also known as the May Bush or the May Flower (also famous as this is what the Pilgrim Father's named their ship after)

When they bloom, the Hawthorn hedgerows turn into a beautiful white color.

The Hawthorn can bloom all through the summer, first appearing in late spring, which is why it is known as the May Flower.

article excert from : http://www.flowerfairiespictures.com/may

The Story of YULA ....

2011-04-01T23:00:00.001+08:00

~The Story Of Yula ~

I arrived in my hometown last March 26 , Saturday from Perth, Australia. My home in the town of Sta. Cruz , Laguna was situated in Lynville Phase 3 Subdivision. My mom and my son live in our two-story home without a pet.

1st Day- Sunday, 27th March ~

10am ...I had just finished my late breakfast and I was outside the main door sitting on a monoblock chair when suddenly a tiny, dirty sick looking creature started pushing it's nose and mouth thru the bars of our iron gate.

Crying and barking at the top pitch of its tiny little voice for attention. I came to check on it and it was excited to see me coming .

It continously wagged its filthy, scabbies covered tail while

it's fur had mostly dissappeared from its skin covered with rashes. Poor little thing .. it looked like it's not even 3 months old!

I gave it some food and water and it was happy to leave after awhile to go back on the streets where it had been wandering around for weeks accdg to my neighbors.

The afternoon passed without seeing it again . Night time came and I was about ready to sleep. It was about 9pm and our main door was closed while I was on the sofa dozing off from time to time while watching tv. I though I was just dreaming when I heard a little crying sound outside by the gate. I peeked thru the slightly open glass window and I saw the little puppy by the gate again. I turned on the light outside and went out to check on it. It was shaking in the windy chilly night. It's been raining and drizzling at night since I arrived in my hometown. So poor puppy had been out there on the streets feeling cold and wet all the time. I felt so very

sorry for it that I took it in and put it on a clean mat outside our main door. I couldn't bring it inside our home coz I saw it has lots of fleas. She was scratching all the time too.

Oh My GOD!

2nd Day - Monday, 28th March ~

She fell asleep really good that when I woke up the following morning, she was still sound asleep & curled on the mat. I found her to be very smart and very sweet. Her cute eyes stares at me like as if telling me " please don't let me go back to the streets... " . I asked my neighbors around about her. Where she came from and who owns her. They just tell me all the same answer. She's been abandoned and been on the streets for a while. Kids try to take her home but since she's sick and stinky and dirty, noone wants her at the end of the day. It broke my heart. So I decided to keep her. her name "YULA" was given to her by my neighbors. So I just considered it as her official name from now on.

3rd Day - Tuesday , 29th March ~

I gave her a quick warm bath before I took her to the Vet for check up.

I used liquid goat milk soap to clean her troubled skin. She didn't resist much when I started scrubbing her with my soaped hands. Her skin felt so horrible. It was really very rough and full of bumps especially under her arms and belly. After the bath, I dried her with a small towel and she felt so relaxed that she fell asleep under the sun !

I put her in a rattan basket after her nap and off we went to the vet that same afternoon on board a pedal push cart costing Php8.00 for a 5 mins ride! She enjoyed the bumpy ride to the clinic ha-ha !

She was given a shot for her rashes / skin problem but not anti-rabies yet coz she's below 3 months old.

So over a week from now, she'll be going back to the clinic for anti-rabies injection. I don't think she will ever like the idea of going back there coz she was screaming after the vaccine shot. Uh-oh ! Got no choice Yula.... you need that injection for your own good and other people's safety as well !

After the vet and after I had taken her home, I went to the nearest mall to find her puppy dog food and food bowl. She needs her own stuffs to start with!

4th Day - Wednesday , 30th March ~

Today Yula was happy to eat with her new stainless food bowl filled with Alpol Puppy food.

She is now being fed 3 times a day . But gradually would be lessened to twice a day. She's eating everything and drinks a lot of clean water too. She's on her way to gaining a bit of weight real soon !

5th Day - Thursday, 31th March ~

I had noticed that Yula was enjoying her sleeping time even more than the last couple of days. Now she doesn't need to keep walking on the streets constantly looking for water and food anymore. Now she's more secure and contented and has more time for resting & sleeping needed for a tiny puppy of her age. but I need to disturb her from time to time coz I need to walk her out to poo n pee as part of her training. Sorry Yula ...

She did her toilet training well and she can now obey the "SIT & COME " commands easily. My neighbors were so amazed of how she had changed and behaved. Yehhheeeyyyy ... Good girl !

It's been only 2 days I had been doing Obedience training with ( which I had learned from my 2 previous Shar-pei dogs being trained back in Singapore ) her and she'd been very attentive and obedient. Very smart puppy ! I'm very happy with her too. She even tries to get on my lap which she doesn't do with anyone else here in the house. She thinks I'm her mom I think !

She follows me really well and stays with me coz I suspect she feels more comfortable if she's beside me. She's one very loyal buddy ...

6th Day - Friday , 1st April ~

It's already 9am and Yula was still sound asleep in her basket. But I guess she heard my voice and she readily opened her eyes. She saw me but she didn't move out of her bed. Hmmmnnn . Lazy Friday huh ! Well, today is no lazy day little puppy ! Coz today I'll try to put the leash on her small collar.

She has to be trained to walk with a leash. It was a bit of pulling and resisting on her part and even harder on my side to show her I'm the boss. Well, this part of the training would take more time I guess. Coz she'd been used to being so free wandering on the streets for quite a while without any collar and cord. But for sure, she'll learn how to walk with leash on ... it's just a matter of time and patience.

I only have today and tomorrow to train her as much as I can coz I'll be going back again to Perth real soon. In about 2 days from now.. I reallyjust hope, all my efforts with YULA would be given attention by my son and mom so it doesn't just go to waste. Coz they'll be the one who'll have to handle her and continue to train / look after her while I'm gone. By the time I'm back here in my province would be the time she's already a grown up dog. Well... hoping for the best for everyone . But most of all ...

Welcome to Your New Home YULA !!!

APRIL ... Fool's day ?

2011-04-01T15:22:00.000+08:00

~ Happy April Fool's Day to Everyone ~

Bye-bye March !
'Coz today is another start to a whole brand new month.
Where actually, April starts with an interesting day full of fun and surprises.

April Fool's Day or All Fool's Day

April Fool's Day or All Fool's Day occurs annually on April 1. The day is generally observed by playing a practical joke on a "victim" who soon becomes known as an April Fool. This custom is thought to have started in France during the 16th century but the British are credited with bringing it to the United States.

April Fool's Day is a "for-fun-only" observance. Nobody is expected to buy gifts or to take their "significant other" out to eat in a fancy restaurant. Nobody gets off work or school. It's simply a fun little holiday, but a holiday on which one must remain forever vigilant, for he may be the next April Fool!
Practical jokes are a common practice on April Fool's Day. Sometimes, elaborate practical jokes are played on friends or relatives that last the entire day.
It's almost noon and I'm starting to get wicked here thinking of what joke I could play on someone who's not suspecting anything for today. Hmmmnnn the day is just starting anyway so I still have time left to find something ... we will see later LOL!

Any April jokes / pranks suggestions ?

What's On This March ...

2011-03-01T17:55:00.003+08:00

Today is the 1st Day of March ...

Photo courtesy of Ideas n Gifts.com

How do you like the angel photo above ? I just found it while searching for Aquamarine images on google. It immediately caught my eye while browsing several images on the net. But this certain photo just got me so instantly and I don't really know why . I had such a strange feeling while I was gazing at it ! Maybe because I'd been dealing with angel figures and getting connected somehow with angel stories lately. I know I may sound weird but how do i explain the fact that the "Angels"do exist in my life somehow ? Some people may believe and some may just call it crap to believe on these " Angels" . But hey , count me here as a believer , OK ? Even Truth is, my only grandson " Sealtiel " was named after an angel too ! If you need to see more angels like the photo above, they're for sale as well at this website : Ideas n Gifts.com

This is my own version of a gemstone angel which I had created last year. This charm was actually hanging from my magnifying lamp infront of my computer !

Oh Well, ... a brand new month had just started today . I wonder what's waiting for me in the next coming days and weeks . Only thing I could hope for is to be able to see the sunny blue skies each and everyday.

As blue as the sea where I often go for solitude here in Perth and as blue as the Aquamarine birthstone for the month of March.

A pair of Sterling Silver Earrings with gemstone which i had bought for myself last Dec. 2010 from a small shop called " Magnolia" while I was navigating the Galleria Mall in Morley here in Western Australia. I still have not worn it yet ... but I'm sure it will be soon !

AQUAMARINE ~ The aqua-blue gemstone Aquamarine (a variety of the mineral beryl) is the Birthstone for March & also the Zodiac stone for the constellation of Scorpio, the gemstone for the 16th and 19th Anniversaries, and is mentioned in the Bible (as beryl). This stone has a relatively consistent color, although some stones are deeper in color than others. The natural stone is found as perfect crystals (faceted by nature) and also in rather unusual, odd shapes.

#CRN164+E= BLUE FLOWERS Crystal Necklace & Earrings Set

This set is Available now in my Ebay store !

The hardness and durability of aquamarine make it a fine gemstone, and its light blue or aqua color makes it a fine choice when the harsher colors of some other gemstones would overwhelm or distract from an outfit. Its typical delicate color allows it to be used in a larger stone where its beauty can be impressive.

"Birthstones - Aquamarine" by Rachel Anderson

What is March Birth Flower ?

The daffodil is the March birth flower. Daffodils have the flower meaning of rebirth, respect, regard and unrequited love. The daffodil is one of the first flowers of spring, therefore it is a symbol of rebirth. The March birth flower, daffodil, is the common English name for all narcissus plants.

{Photo: Courtesy of Trombly's Greenhouse)

March Collection ... Coming Soon !

2011-02-27T17:25:00.001+08:00

~ March Jewelry Collection ~

Watch Out 'coz they're coming out soon !

Don't forget to visit my Ebay store for my latest listings too !

The beautiful Sunset By Scarborough Beach in Perth, Western Australia

~Photo taken last 22/02/2011 at 6:56 PM~

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY ...

2011-02-14T02:39:00.004+08:00

~ My Valentine ~

I may not be by your side

to spend this day with you

All I want you to know is

I'm longing here for you ;

I miss your smile, your staring eyes,

'coz they give sunshine

to my ever gloomy life ;

your words so tender,

they're like lyrics to a song

serenading me endlessly

leaving me craving for more.

We're such a distance apart

but in thoughts together we're bound

your touch , your smell, your kisses

would always nestle in my mind.

Happy Valentine's Day

to you my love, my ever dear one

Today our hearts would beat as one.

Today is the time I'll say to you ...

I would always be yours ...

Forever you are mine !

Created by : Wella Dela Cruz Cornelis

February 14 , 2011

~ Valentine Treasures ~

Valentine treasures are people who
have often crossed your mind,
family, friends and others, too,
who in your life have shined
the warmth of love or a spark of light
that makes you remember them;
no matter how long since you’ve actually met,
each one is a luminous gem,

who gleams and glows in your memory,
bringing special pleasures,
and that’s why this Valentine comes to you:
You’re one of those sparkling treasures!

By Joanna Fuchs
http://www.poemsource.com/.

Especially For You ...

2011-02-08T18:00:00.005+08:00

Still thinkin of what nice present to offer your dear love one on this up coming Valentine's Day ?

Here are some recommended gift items that would surely bring a smile out of her . Time is running fast so you don't want to miss out on something really important.
So please feel free to browse around and give yourself an idea or make your choice before it's too late ...

All of these items are available now in my eBay store . Check them out !

#CRCH25=MY HEART IS YOURS 925 SS Crystal Charm Bracelet

Elegant and Sparkling Bracelet created using a combination of Original Swarovski Crystal Beads in Garnet, Siam & Crystal AB colors , Celestial Crystals in Faceted Garnet Rondelles,Toho Seed Beads, Designer Glass Heart Beads with 925 Sterling Silver Findings, Chain & Toggle Clasp .
Bracelet measures about 7-1/4 inches in lenght.

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#GSBB469 = GOLDEN HEARTS Bracelet & Earrrings Set

Bracelet & Earrings accented with Coral Red Dyed Howlite Beads, Swarovski Crystal Bicone beads, Gold Faux Glass Pearls with Antique Gold Plated Beads and Findings.
This gorgeous set is absolutely stunning!

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#GMCH060+E=RED HEARTS CLOISONNE Bracelet & Earrings Set

Bracelet & Earrings accented with Chinese Hearts Cloisonne beads , Coral Red Dyed Howlite Beads, Pink malaysian Jade beads, Gold Faux Glass Pearls with Highly Plated Rhodium Chain. Bracelet Measures approx. 7.5-8 " in lenght & matching Earrings is about 1.5" inches long including leverback hooks.

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#CRBR73 =CRYSTAL BANGLES ( Siam White Pearls )

Spiral Style Bangle Bracelet using a combination of Original Swarovski Siam Color Bicone Crystal Beads , Japanese Seed Beads with White Faux Glass Pearl Beads. Bracelet measures about 7 inches in lenght / 10mm wide and stretchable .

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HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY !!!

February 2011 ~

2011-02-01T22:41:00.007+08:00

What's On For February ?

1st of February today, The month of hearts ~ Valentines Day, the month of my supposed to be 13th Wedding Anniversary & the month of hubby's birthday as well . Occassions I don't enjoy celebrating anymore during the last few years. Everytime the event approaches, they never fail to just make me feel so sad, frustrated and I'm so annoyed by it. So what I do is to tell myself that they just don't matter to me anymore ... at this point of time most of you would had known why .
Life is not meant to be constantly happy ... so I'm learning to deal with it each and everyday !
I had acquired the ability on how to keep myself busy , had discovered how to provide a dash of entertainment to get rid of boredom trying to creep in me when I'm at home and having a bit of rest from housework. Got not much friends around here in Perth other than those I'd been communicating with in online sites . since I moved here in Perth, I'd been more to myself doing house chores. The work keeps my body and mind constantly moving in and out of the house. But truthfully, I'm still lonely here and missing things in my married life. How it sucks !So I'm very thankful that I have my internet friends and my adorable beads which had been keeping me company and supporting me these days.

Previous design which had already SOLD OUT before I came to Perth last year !

I had spent the morning till noon today trying to finish a necklace composed of only red and white color Swarovski Crystals with the Valentine's Day theme in mind. Well hey, Valentine's Day is coming in like 12 days. I need to create something especial for it. I came up with these new designs pictured below. I'll be making matching earrings too . They'll be available in my ebay site this weekend.

So watch and check out my ebay store .

Finished Necklace & Earrings Set comes with gift Box ( Only Set Available ) is Now for Sale at AUD$50

But anyway, February is the second month of the year in the Julian and Gregorian calendars. It is the shortest month and the only month with fewer than 30 days. The month has 29 days in leap years, when the year number is divisible by four (except for years that are divisible by 100 and not by 400 in the Gregorian calendar). In common years the month has 28 days.

~February symbols ~

February birth flower is the violet (Viola) and the common primrose (Primula vulgaris)

Its birthstone is the amethyst. It symbolizes piety, humility, spiritual wisdom, and sincerity.

Amethyst is the official birthstone for February as adopted by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912. It is also the birth stone for the Zodiac sign of Pisces. See the birthstone table for additional references to this stone on alternative birthstone charts. Amethyst is suggested as a gem to give on the 4th, 6th and 17th wedding anniversaries.

Amethyst ~ is a violet variety of quartz often used in jewelry. The name comes from the Ancient Greek ἀ a- ("not") and μέθυστος methustos ("intoxicated"), a reference to the belief that the stone protected its owner from drunkenness; the ancient Greeks and Romans wore amethyst and made drinking vessels of it in the belief that it would prevent intoxication.

A wire crochet necklace embedded with Amethyst and Pearls I had made on commission in Singapore before.

Latest earrings created for February 2011 Collection .

"WICKA"

2011-01-25T22:46:00.000+08:00

My son and daughter had been asking when I would bring my car home from the dealer shop. I was a bit unsure last Sunday to reply coz I'm confused whether to be happy or not for having this car as a gift for my passed birthday about 10 days ago. I just told them , when I have nothing to do on Monday or maybe Tuesday , then I'll take it home. My son called it a "crap" the moment he saw it in the dealer's shop not knowing it was my car. He even told me I must be joking if it was my car coz it's not really his type . You know what type of cars boys like and this type I had doesn't even come close to his taste ! What can I do ? I just told him, I'm happy to have a car. No matter what it is , old or ugly as long as it takes me to my destination in 1 whole piece, I'm thankful !

It's a used 2003 Mitsubishi Magna Executive Auto Sport model. It was well maintained eventhough there are some minor scratches. I had driven it for test-drive and it moved smoothly the way I want it to go. The color is not also that bad coz I like red to dark red colors most of all .

I personally named my car "WICKA" which for me means wicked angel. Wicked referring to me , angel for the car. But when I searched the internet for the word Wicka , this is what i found which is very interesting :

Wicca (pronounced /ˈwɪkə/) is a Neopagan religion and a form of modern witchcraft. Often referred to as Witchcraft or the Craft,[1] its adherents are commonly referred to as Wiccans, or as Witches or Crafters. Developing in England in the first half of the 20th century,[2] Wicca was popularised in the 1950s and early 1960s by a Wiccan High Priest named Gerald Gardner, who at the time called it the "witch cult" and "witchcraft," and its adherents "the Wica."[3] From the 1960s onward, the name of the religion was normalised to "Wicca."[4]

and what is more interesting about this name I had given my car is that :
"Wicca" pronounced (Wik-kah) designates a male Witch.

OH My God ! Now my invented name gets even more creepier !
Well anyway, I had already officially cast the name on my car "WICKA" and I had hanged my self -made beaded Angel charm by the rear view mirror for luck and protection.

I'm not superstitious but oh well, I like to see this Guardian Angel hanging infront of me everytime I drive "Wicka" on the road. I'm sure my new buddy and I will have lots of fun exploring places here in Perth, Western Australia.

A Gift ...

2011-01-14T22:45:00.005+08:00

January 14, 2011 ~ I woke up quite earlier than usual from my bed today . King size bed for me alone is too big but with 2 kids beside me ... the space became too small for 3 people in it.

Kids have the habit to invade my bedroom when hubby is away on a business trip. Oh well, it's bonding time alright. But now that they had grown up 11 & 13y/o respectively, it's already a bad habit coz not only I'm loosing my blanket during the night but I'm also getting kicked out of my own bed !

Anyway, I decided to go downstairs and make myself a cup of coffee in the kitchen while I start to think what I'll do for today. It's not an ordinary day. Today is my Birthday ! OMG! I'm a year older again ! Hmmmnnn ... truth is, I don't mind that much coz I feel and look younger somehow LOL! I checked my facebook page and saw my friends had already sent me greetings and best wishes. Thanks to all my dear friends & relatives coming from different parts of this earth . Even if we're thousands of miles apart, they had remembered me . I appreciate the thoughtfullness and I felt great !

So, today is my special day ... I want to make something different for myself for a change. I went to my beadroom and sort out some left-over beads laying on my table. Quite a mess there coz I'd made a few necklaces a few days ago and still , I had not cleared up my mess. My eye caught the scattered Tiger's- eye beads mixed with Black Onyx Round Beads in the middle of the table and few pieces were laying on the carpeted floor as well. Hmmmnnn, I told myself that I really like these beads. The Tiger's Eye Beads were originally from my personal 2 stranded necklace I had made for myself about 10 years ago in Singapore. I cut it into 2 parts and I had made half of the strand into an 18" inches necklace . Then I gave the necklace to a " Special Friend " for birthday present together with a strand of Smoky Quartz choker. My friend was happy with the necklaces. I was so happy to see that both necklaces had fitted the person well !

Now, the other half of the strand laying on the table is waiting for me . What can I do with these beads now ?

I took out the beading board and laid the beads I had chosen for the necklace. But the Color combination is too dull knowing I always like bold , contrasting colors. Brown and black is just not too striking for myself since my skin is almost about the same color , brown to almost black , lol ! I prefer something more colorful and bold. Especially with a touch of dark red or Garnet color beads. Garnet is my birthstone and I just love its color ! So I took out some crystal rondelles I just bought from Singapore last December. I tried to mix n match and rearranged the position of the beads several times. Until I finally decided to do this simple stringing design :

I had used the antique style metal findings to give it a vintage effect and a chinese zodiac dog character as a focal pendant. I still have to search for the meaning of this pendant though !

The necklace was 2 stranded measuring at least 18" in lenght with Tiger Eye Beads, Black Onyx Round Beads in 14 / 6mm sizes , Garnet Color Faceted Crystal Rondelles and antique color metal findings. I'm happy to see it finished within an hour and have it fitted on my neck with matching earrings and 2 elastic bracelets. Isn't it beautiful ? Now I have a nice, unique birthday gift for myself ! I just love it !

Some Facts about the stones I had used for this set :

Black Onyx ~ a symbol of eloquence

Healing ability: Onyx is used as a heart, kidney, nerve, capillary, hair, eye and nail strengthener. Onyx is said to help one sleep. This gemstone helps to eliminate apathy, stress and neurological disorders.

Mystical power: This gemstone eliminates negative thinking, it is also believed to sharpen the wits of the wearer. Onyx is said to bring spiritual inspiration. It is a great assistance in holding emotions and passions under control.

Garnet ~ is a stone of vitality and passion

Healing ability: Garnet is an excellent assistance for blood deficiency diseases. It stimulates bloodstream and pituitary gland, relieves rheumatism and arthritis pain.
Garnet combats depression and lethargy. Garnet also stimulates the spleen properly. Garnet protects against depression and impure thoughts. Cures fever and promotes good health.

Mystical power: Garnet should be carried close to the body. Its energy is balancing and peaceful. This stone of passion stimulates the sexual drive. Garnet gives energy and courage. It is said to encourage robust good health and sexual desire, enhance the wearer's imagination. Garnet symbolizes fire, faith, courage, truth, grace, compassion, constancy and fidelity. It also offers protection to the traveler.

Tiger's-Eye ~ offers courage, energy, and luck

Healing ability: Tiger eye relieves high blood pressure. Tiger eye wear is very helpful in the presence of following diseases: bronchial asthmakidney, rheumatic heart disease, otitis and psoriasis.

Mystical power: Tiger Eye is used for focusing the mind. It is said that Tiger Eye offers protection during travel, strengthens convictions and confidence. This very warm stone is beneficial for the weak and sick.

My Birthday Flowers which came only the day after my birthday. But still I'm thankful that at least I got something from somebody !

THANK YOU !!!

WANT TO HELP ?

2011-01-12T17:29:00.006+08:00

QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA
NEEDS YOUR HELP !!!

Premier's Flood Relief Appeal

Funds raised as at 10.20am, 14 January 2011:

$54,636,576

Donate wisely - Central Queensland flood crisis

Photos From News.com.au

A collection of pontoons caught in rips outside a block in St Lucia on the Brisbane River.

Picture: Daniel Wade

A side cafe is taken by the floods near the Goodwill Bridge in Brisbane.

Picture: Wong Choy Fong and Yang Wong

Long shot of the Brisbane River.

Picture: Wong Choy Fong and Yang Wong

~THE BLACK NAZARENE ~

2011-01-10T21:05:00.006+08:00

Feast of the Black Nazarene : Festival in Quiapo

BLACK NAZARENE

January 9

The feast of the Black Nazarene on January 9 is considered one of the most spectacular religious events that take place in the Philippine history.

The Black Nazarene is the patron saint of Quiapo Manila. The statue is a life size replica of Christ that was brought to Manila by a Spanish priest in 1606. Since then, miraculous things have been reported to those who touch the image. I had touched the image myself when I was young. My father went in the church with me one day as far as I could remember. During that time, I was a bit puzzled why people queue just to touch the foot of the image which was encased in a glass cage in one corner of the church. I was too young to understand why they do that . For what ? is the question embedded in my mind during those days.

Since 1787, the statue of the Black Nazarene has been housed at Saint John the Baptist Church in Quiapo commonly known as the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene or Quiapo Church.

Quiapo is a small but well-known part of Manila, a hub of trade and commerce because of the Quiapo market and the many stores located there.

It is a place I'm always fond of exploring,seeing and checking everytime I come to Manila.Personally I was drawn to the rush ambience, bustling atmosphere of the place and I really find it miraculous to live every single day there after a tremendous load of work / stress and too much action around that area. Why ? keep reading on ...My father used to take me and my siblings there for clothes and shoes for any occassions when we were young. It's a good bargain place for good stuffs, But you should stick to the rule of thumb~ Shop as early as possible to avoid the rush and too much flow of people and bargain hard with the price you think is reasonable enough . Since I grew up going there for bargains before , I still know all the little side streets where the good bargains are hiding. This is where I buy a lot of cheap but stylish and good quality stuffs ranging from clothes, shoes, food and anything else I can think of stuffing inside my suitcase! Like beads and gift supplies of course !

Quiapo is a place that is packed with just about everything and it is simply amazing !

But back to the story of Black Nazarene, as mentioned earlier, the statue was brought to Manila by a Spanish priest in 1607 aboard a ship. The ship caught fire, burning the image and thus came to be known as the Black Nazarene. Though the image was burnt, the people decided to preserve and honor it. Since then, miraculous things have been reported to those who touch the image.

The celebration starts as the huge door of Quiapo Church opens and the image of the Black Nazarene is within sight. The ocean of devotees start to yell “Viva Señor” while some wave white towel high in the air along with the scripture of the Black Nazarene.
The statue is placed in a gilded carriage for the procession. As the procession starts, procession participants garbed in maroon tops grab two long ropes and pull it to make the carriage move. Many will attempt to touch the image while some throw their handkerchiefs and towels in the air. People who join in the procession walk barefooted as a sign of humility.
The devotion to the Black Nazarene is long time practice of the Filipino Catholics and they believe that through their faith with Jesus Christ, there will be peace and harmony among families, long life and good health among people, deliverance from all calamities and disasters, and prosperity, joy and love among nations. ( article excerpts from http://www.rcam.org/feastday/feast_black_nazarene.htm ).

MIRACLES :

Do you believe in miracles ? What miracles ? I admit that I'm not a devoted catholic. To be frank, I hardly go to church nor attend a Sunday mass but I'm not proud of it myself. It just happened that the way I was brought up to believe in religion, my family was not convincing enough. Hardly any of my family members go to church. My mom goes from time to time with taking us in tow. But when she left us when I was 9 yrs old, no one else did after her. I'm surrounded by mostly uncles who do nothing but gamble and pick a fight. So going to church is like a once in a lifetime occassion for us. Although I still remember when I was a child that I try to sneak out with my friends to go to church on a Sunday. I don't know why my father is so strict about us going out somewhere. Too protective I guess ? Last Sunday mass I had happened to go to was last year during my grandson's baptism day. In July I think. Anyway, for me , I somehow believe in some sort of miracles . But miracles only do happen to chosen ones. In that case, I do consider myself lucky to be one of the "Chosen Ones". Not only once or twice that unusual things / events happened to me in connection with Quiapo. For all these happenings , how should I call or explain it without me sounding a bit ... weird maybe ??

~ Miracle of Black Nazarene ~

To start with, maybe just by coincidence or whatever you may call it, my 1st child ~ my daughter who had the wedding last month in Philippines was born on the Feast Of The Black Nazarene. January 9th in 1987.

She was born with Megacolon an abnormality inside her stomach. She alone took me 5 years of financial problems before she was finally fixed to a normal condition. She had a colostomy for 5 years requiring constant check ups and trips to the doctor. It was difficult to support my daughter at that time coz I became a single parent when she turned 1 1/2 yrs old and I was pregnant with my 2nd child. It was 5 years of hardship and pain knowing my daughter had already undergone 5 major operations where in the 4th one she nearly died. 5 years of trying to make ends meet on my own raising 2 kids , supporting also my mom who looks after them while I go work in the city of Manila and my stepsister who was just a small kid of 5 y/o at that time. I was just lucky I got a good salary and could make extra money selling things to friends and had met generous people who became good friends along the way who had seen my situation and helped me from the bottom of their hearts. I thanked them over and over again up to this day for the sponsorship of my daughter's medical bills. In a way, I was lucky to always find something to support my problems.
The cross I carried for 5 years had gone slowly after seeing my daughter growing to a healthy, normal child and my young son growing happily together with h . It was the greatest satisfaction I ever had ... to hear her especially laughing and playing as a normal child.

Lorenine Barbie " Potpot" when she was about 5 years old ...

Yesterday was the 9th of January and so it was your birthday !

HAPPY BIRTHDAY "Potpot" !

~ 2nd Miracle Of Black Nazarene ~

Oct 19, 2007 ~ I was in Manila ( travelling from Singapore where we were based at that time ) in October 2007 with my 2 younger kids staying at the Makati Shangri-la hotel when we met our helper in Glorietta Mall Makati around 8:30am. She was in the Philippines to get married but she changed her mind so she wanted to work for me again back in Singapore. After saying hello and gave her money to fix her passport so she can go back to Singapore with us , she, the kids and I had a walk around the block. My son saw a Chinese restaurant which was still closed coz it was too early and asked if the food is good there. I said yes and tonight we will eat there for dinner coz they have good dimsum and siopao. Since all shops and boutiques of Glorietta Mall were still closed during that early morning of Friday, I decided to leave early for Quiapo . Since I'll be meeting my relatives there around 10am, the earlier, the better I said to myself. So, we went to Quiapo church earlier than scheduled coz there's more to see there anyway. I also planned to visit the Black Nazarene and searched for the mysterious "Black Rosary " saint I saw there many years ago. I also intended to introduce my filipino/ belgian kids to the sites , traditions and way of life in Quiapo. Quiapo way of life should be something different to experience for them. We had lunch with my father and stepsisters at Jollibee Restaurant right beside the church around noon.
After a quick visit to the Black Nazarene plus all the fast shopping and eating sessions , at around 1:30pm , I finally decided to go back to the hotel . Kids can go swimming and cool down by the pool. While in a taxi, my hubby called from Singapore with his voice in total panic. Asking if we were shopping in Glorietta Mall that time as I what i had told him the day before. I said no ...We're not there coz I had a change of planning. I decided to go early to Quiapo instead. That very moment he was on the phone we're on board a taxi coz we had finished all the shopping and we are on our way back to Shangri-la Hotel. He told us not to go back to the hotel coz there was a big explosion beside it and all streets were blocked by security .People had died and over a 100 got injured. My taxi driver started his radio for news and voila ! The explosion was being broadcast live ! I was totally shocked! The place where the bomb exploded was guess where ? The Luk-Yuen Chinese restaurant in Glorietta Mall where my helper, the kids and I were standing that very morning. It shook me from head to toe . We were so lucky we were in Quiapo. So lucky that Black Nazarene had somehow saved all our lives that time we were in Quiapo. I just can't forget that day and time Oct 19, 2007 at 1:25pm when the explosion occurred . I was not able to get any good, normal sleep for like 5 days after that incident. I'd been seeing the casualties in my head everytime I close my eyes. I even got nightmares about it too. It was just terrible ! I do wish for all the dead souls to rest in peace ...

~ A Miracle in Quiapo Church " The Black Rosary " ~

October 1984 ~ I had just finished my college degree at Far Eastern University in Manila but was not able to attend the Graduation ceremony coz it was the day I have to start working as a saleslady in a plush department store. So instead of loosing the 1st job I ever had , I decided not to attend my graduation rites. I regretted having that decision coz too late to realize the sentimental value of the event. The happiness and excitement being part of the celebration and missed being with my classmates of few years. Oh well. That's life ... we make stupid decisions sometimes in our lifetime. For me this is one !
Anyway, 2 days before the graduation rites, my best firend who's my childhood neighbor ( she's now married and living in the US with her family ) told me if I would like to come with here to apply for a job. I said ok why not give it a try ? I went with here to Quiapo before applying for a job as she had requested to attend a mass to pray for goodluck. She came from a very religious family who goes to church every week without absence. She took me with her sometimes but only if when I'm in the mood to stand and sit and kneel for over an hour during the mass on a Sunday. But truthfully as I said before, I don't like going to church on a regular basis. I just don't like being there.I find it too boring. Anyways, So before applying for a job, we went to Quiapo in the morning to attend a mass. Coming in the church, vendors started pinning our clothes with religious pins and pushing their religious paraphernalia ~ rosaries, bible, cross pendants , bottled herds blah-blah-blah. An old lady pinning a Black Nazarene logo poked my skin and I yelled at her and shoved her away to stop bothering me. She looked at me in the eye and said : You behave yourself young lady, you're entering the house of God! We do put the pins just for a small amount. of donation . I told her I'm not happy to donate coz she's hurting and forcing people. It's a scam ! I took the pin off and threw it back at here which I should had not done actually. Where's my respect and manners for old folks? I know I was wrong that time to treat her that way, She is just after some money. But I was so pissed and my skin was bleeding that i couldn't think properly anymore due to pain and anger. Then my friend convinced me that we should continue going in the church. The mass had started and church was full of people. We were just able to enter by the entrance . there's no way to go in any further. So we stood there and hear the prayers of the mass I could hardly understand. I was looking down on my feet when my right ear itched. That very moment, I felt like someone was staring at me. I looked around coz I had a very strange feeling that someone was watching me. I remember seeing everyone had their heads bowed down and seriously praying. I scratched my ear and somehow, I don't know why, I suddenly looked up infront of me. There was a pillar just right infront of me and above it was a human size statue of Virgin Mary holding a baby. I was surprised to see the look in the statue's eyes coz they look so real and looking straight at me. her eyes made me feel so uncomfortable. I just don't know why ! Suddenly, both my feet started feeling numb. It was one very strange and scary feeling I could not forget. Then I realized when I scratched my earlobe that my stud earring was missing. I told my friend I had lost my earring so we both looked on the floor for it. We were looking around when suddenly I noticed my left hand was closed in a fist. I opened my hand and to my shock, my earring was there together with the stud attached to it. How in the hell did that happen ? Left hand , and the earring with its luck were intact ? I just freaked out! The saint must have had cast a spell or punishment on me that day. From then on, I never came back to Quiapo church . I was so scared ! But not until after 3 years when I gave birth to my problematic 1st child who was born on the 9th of January, 1987 which was the

The Feast Of The Black Nazarene ~ Festival In Quiapo !

My neighbor adviced me to pay a visit to Quiapo after hearing the news that i gave birth to a very sick child. Knowing the story with the earring coz she was with me, even her parents convinced me to go back to the church and pray to the " Black Rosay" statue who was looking at me. She told me it's time I pray coz my child is bearing the penalty as well. It's like a curse. So I didn't hesitate and went there with my little daughter when she was about 2.5 months and just came out of the hospital where she was confined for 2 months after she was born.

The Saint housed in this church "The Black Rosary" which I was talking about is pictured below. I never saw the life size statue of the " Black Rosary" in Quiapo anymore after tmy 1st encounter with it . I had asked people around the church if they had transferred it somewhere else inside the church coz I really could not find it. But a devotee friend told me it was still there even after the renovation a few years back. I searched the whole church . I went behind , to the sides where people queue to touch the statues there but I never found her at all I .She was nowhere in sight. I was so sad for so many years for not being able to tell her I was sorry for what I did to the old lady the time I first saw her statue staring at me. But I always try to look for her everytime I visit the Quiapo church.

~ 2nd Miracle Of The Black Rosary ~

June 2010~ I was in Luisiana Laguna , for my grandson's baptism. I stayed in my son in law's parents house for 2 nights to be with my grandson even more. I was planning of going back home to my home town of Sta Cruz on the 3rd night but they won't let me go and they would like that I spend more time with them before going back to Singapore. My son in laws' parents were so nice and their hospitality to the maximum level that i can't give them a negative answer to their request . So I stayed for 1 more night. But deep inside I really want to go home to my house in Sta. Cruz, Laguna. I still have doubts of staying in Luisiana coz I can't move the way I would like to move coz it's another people's house. I felt weird somehow.

Anyway, They're so religious that the parents go to church each and every day. Like as if they already live in the church lol ! The mother even took me to a 7:30am Morning Sunday mass ( Oh God I was like a walking zombie on the way to church coz I was still sleepy! ).

The mass made me feel a bit uneasy coz I have no idea what to say and what to sing ..I'm bad ! My grandson's baptism was on that day too right after the public mass so we stayed in the church. While wandering around the church, I saw this statue of Virgin Mary. my heart pounced back n forth coz I thought it was the " Black Rosary" I'd been looking for over 20 years ! Unfortunately, false alarm coz it was something else. I was again so saddened not to find the Virgin Mary of the " Black Rosary " .

I really wonder ... Where is she ?

The last day I was there I was preparing my bag for the following day early morning trip back to my house when suddenly a group of people carrying a carriage with a saint in it came in the house singing and praying. So all the people in the house gathered by the living room to pay respect to the visiting. I was looking at the statue and I started having goose bumps on my arms. The saint is a Virgin Mary carrying a baby. I was suspicious who that saint is. After all the singing and praying, I asked the people who that saint is ... they replied to me : Oh it is the :

" The Black Rosary "

I was so speechless , I was so overjoyed , so I cried ! I found her at last and she came to me directly.The statue is normally being given to a family to keep in their homes for a week for sign of goodluck, protection, good health and all other postive things. It was sent to the house coz it got nowhere to go to that week and it was my son'in law's mother's birthday that day. The people gave it to her as a birthday present to keep for a week ! I was happy I was there in the house that night. I was able to see her at last.
Her face was even smiling at me with the baby in her arms. Is that coincidence that she was brought there coz I was there and it was the day of my grandson's baptism ? I consider it a big miracle ... seeing her after all these years is another great miracle happening in my life !

Since then, I started going back to Quiapo church even more often whenever I get the chance to do my small prayers of praise and to say thank you for giving me the strenght and support all these years, as well as the miracle of a 2nd life for my daughter Potpot , birth of my cute grandson named Sealtiel ( name derived from St. Sealtiel the Archangel meaning "Prayer of God" )

This is my cute grandson ~ Rhendolf Sealtiel ~

" Archangel Sealtiel "

and for all other blessings given to me now and forever I am so thankful indeed !

Note : All pictures used were taken and owned by Wella Cornelis unless otherwise stated .

~ HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011 ~

2011-01-01T11:10:00.000+08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011 !!!