qtcotzkie and teloy

Kwentong Barbero with Teloyskie

2012-01-24T21:50:00.000-08:00

Teloyskie's growing up fast and I always try to catch up with him in simple conversations. When we're apart, a few minutes call each day reminds him that Mommy is always here somewhere. We usually update each other what's going on with each other's day. His school, my work and his Tito's and Titas here, his playmates, how's the city and the buildings and the trains are coming along here in Manila, and so on.

During holidays and special occasions, I try to join him in his play (usually cars, trucks, transformers). Mama always gives a leeway for me to do all the Mommy duties that I should do, like giving him bath, preparing his food, taking him parks or tom's world and lately, to the barber.

Teloy enjoys having his hair cut regularly. Unlike other kids, he sits still and comfortably while the barber snips his hair. After getting his hair cut done last December, and after taking a bath, we we're talking and telling each other stories for his nap time. He noticed my hair and the conversation shifted to that topic.

Teloy: Mommy, dapat hanggang dito hair mo (pointing somewhere below the bra line)
Me: But I want to have my haircut like you.
Teloy: NO! Dapat ganyan lang or longer pa. Maganda. (aaww, really anak??)
Me: Okay, pahabain ko pa hair ko. Ikaw pa-long hair din?
Teloy: No, girls lang ang long hair. Sleep na ko Mommy.

Moonlighting and Freelance Writing

2012-01-23T23:37:00.000-08:00

I didn't notice how January passed by with a lot of things to do and planning at the office. It's the usual stuff done each year to set target and strategies, but last year I was not yet involved much. This year it was different, I also had my share of reports and stats so I joined in the hubbub of busy looking people.

But apart from office work, I also am thankful to get more freelance writing jobs from odesk.com and my current local client. This keeps me busy for a couple of hours per night while enjoying a cup of White Coffee or Hot Chocolate. Just recently, I also started a VA job with an Aussie Professor. I never really imagined taking a VA job, but what made me take this one is that it's very much related to what I was taking up in my post-grad course. Working with her is like working for one of my professors in NCPAG, I get a refreshing dose of topics I used to read about while writing articles which I feel like I'm submitting for a class.

These writing assignments I take now can easily pay for my month's rent, I can buy good stuff for my son and myself. But this wasn't the case a couple of years back. I started writing for a meager pay. I was happy back then, never realizing how much more I could have been earning if I worked for direct clients. Though I consider writing jobs to be an exercise of my skill and passion for writing, it actually felt good being praised, rewarded and earn something for it.

not bad for a week's earnings @odesk.com :)

So from my small earnings, I learned the tricks of the trade and how to bargain for a better compensation. It will be easy if you're confident with your work and when you can provide samples. Soon I was able to build a client base, just a couple of them which provided positive feedback for my work.

I believe I can earn a lot from freelance writing, but I still consider this as a hobby and a sideline, I shouldn't stress myself with too much writing assignments. I simply choose my topics, work leisurely and produce quality articles which satisfy clients. :)

Currently, I consider my freelance writing job as one of the ways for me to earn extra and save for my escape fund. Soon, my one big bang before the big day will be realized!

Keep on Chasing Sunshine, A Bright Look at 2012!

2012-01-04T08:11:00.000-08:00

In 2011, I discovered several blogs on travelling and spent hours reading, browsing at pictures, marveling at their guts and their disposition in handling funds, finding inspiration and encouragement to feed the hunger for more travels. It was with the Sole Sister's inspiration that I now came up with my very own 2012 Vision Board.

It looks a little jam-packed though because there's a lot that I want to achieve for 2012. I know that everything will all fall into place eventually, but this board will be my guide to my goals and will serve as a milestone marker for the year.

For some years now, I've been juggling roles as regular public servant by day, graduate student in the evening, a weekend dragonboat rower, freelance article writer, an occasional traveler, but the hardest one was being a long distance mom to my son Teloy. Despite my willingness to eventually settle down and spend more time with my son, I still feel my itchy feet wanting some good scratching. So I'm working somethings up so I can do stuff I love together.

For this year, my major goals are:

1. Move Out and Move In.
I've been sharing an apartment unit with my cousin for almost 6 years now. It has become uncomfortably suffocating living with such a "nega" environment so I made it one of my priorities to move out and move in to a better location. I;ve started scouting since Oct 2011 and finally found the perfect 2-bedroom abode two cartwheels away from the office in Dec and I'll be sharing it with one of my co-workers. Will move in January 5, 2012!

2. Home Sweet Home
We were never rich and my parents worked blood, sweat and tears for each of us to have a good education and better life. It took 20 years for my mom to complete her payment for the lot we have now in the province, and because life was hard and we lost a lot, our home is now in a bad state of disrepair. I want to get a housing loan and have improvements, repairs and renovation started this year. In 5 years or so, I'm considering a reassignment and settling down there with Teloy anyway. But I really want to give my mom our dream home - simple and small but filled with love, laughter and happiness.

3. Ride a Bike. Seriously.
This I think will forever stay in my bucket list. This year, I will seriously, seriously, seriously learn to ride a bike!

4. Paddle More.
After the race in Bora, everything just seemed to get in my way and stop me from training and paddling. For this year, I want to get back on the boat, feel the cool morning air against my face and smell the stinky waters of Manila Bay once again!

5. Travel with Teloyskie!
I'm pretty excited about doing this. For last year, I was able to bond more with my son though plans of traveling did not materialize. Teloy just turned 5 and I can see how he takes in travelling around like a duck to water. Both my parents and Teloy are now based in Batuan, Ticao Is. Masbate. My mom takes Teloy when she visits Daraga or come here in Manila. For the times I've traveled with Teloy, I observed how he loved looking out the windows of moving buses or FX and make funny stories and anecdotes of things he see. Also he's not byahilo and is not terrified of waves when crossing from Bulan, Sorsogon to Batuan, Masbate even when the trip is a little on the rough side. I wonder where to start planning a fun trip with a 5-yr old travel buddy though. Any suggestions please?!

6. Start a Travel Fund
I want to spend 31 days of my 31st year travelling across SE Asia! I've started saving my vacation leaves and have started actively accepting writing assignments from Odesk.com. I hope to make 50 grand for this trip, exclusive of air fare through moonlighting and the recent lifestyle changes that I made.

7. Get Engaged. Lol.
Goal no. 5 might actually be a "despidida de soltera" (hope the spelling's correct) for myself. Promised my mom I'll start thinking about settling down seriously when I'm 30 and yes I'm keeping that promise Mader. I will be spending some time with Choy for this year while he's scouring for a new contract abroad. So, there'll be more time together, get to know each other better, travel and explore together with Teloy, like a happy family maybe, uhmm maybe.. and maybe..

And wow, that was quite long. I had fun doing this vision board and I am hopeful I'd achieve more for this year. My gratitude for everyone who stayed and made my 2011 a successful year in every way, extends this year as we all take a bright look at 2012!

A Grateful Year: Recount of My 2011

2012-01-02T04:58:00.000-08:00

Last year, I came up with a year end review of my 2010. It had been a year of balanced good and bad experiences, and 2011 started really good for me. Now it is over, and as I recount my experiences, I'm shocked at how busy the year was for me.

2011 started with so much gratefulness in my heart, and it has ended with so much more. A recent facebook status from a friend said "Grateful people get more than what they are grateful for" a passage from Bo Sanchez made me realize how true it is for my 2011.

I made a list of goals for 2011 and so far, I've successfully met some of them.

Yes, I was able to build stronger family ties. an added bonus was, a close tie with my 2nd family as well - my co-workers. and for the later part of the year, an even stronger bond with my high school and college tropa (10years and counting).

Yes, I am finally debt-free!! Though most of what I've earned for this year went to paying accumulated debts for the past 2 years, I was able to manage and still live well over what's left.

No, I wasn't able to finish DPM :(

No, I wasn't able to climb Mt. Apo. :(

No, I still did not learn to ride a bike!!

But, yes I came back to writing. I finally got my back on track and found clients who recognize good work and compensate well. yipee! :)

Then, I remember making a top 3 travel wish list for 2011, missed out 1 but was able to have more!

Sta. Cruz Dragonboat Exhibition Race March 2011.
Photo by Mr. Abet Lagula

AQ at BIDBF. Photo by Mr. Abet Lagula

It all started with a busy racing schedule on March. All the training was put to good use as my team Aqua Fortis joined in several racing events for the summer. Then there's the Sta. Cruz exhibition race and the Boracay International Dragonboat Festival which brought me to yesssssssssss Bora for the first time!!!

It was a wow experience for me setting foot in the beautiful island of Boracay for the first time. And though this trip was spent mostly on the boat, I still loved it - just feeling the sand on my toes and seeing crystal blue waters each morning is divine! I made a promise to go spend some time here again soon.

Then just two weeks after, I flew to Puerto Princesa, Palawan with my most dear friends. An experience that brought us together again after many years. It also gave us a chance to bond and talk about how things had been going, how things are going on at the moment and how things will be in the future.

We were able to visit the different islands off honda bay and swam and snorkel our hearts out at Snake Island and Pandan Islands.

It was the highlight of the mid year and summer season for me. It was apparent with my skin color how much I enjoyed the sun and beaches for the summer of 2011!

The Palawan trip also brought me to one of the world's Natural Wonders - the Underground River in Sabang, Palawan. I was very lucky to have visited this place at least once in my life and I am also putting this on would-visit-back-with-teloy trips one day soon.

This trip concluded the first half of my 2011. For the month of June, work started to get busy, and I seriously wanted to get my flawless (yes, flawless!) skin back so I took a rest from rowing.

July came in and ended with an unexpected surprise. It was something that gave spice to my single-lifehood and had a bittersweet ending. Still, I'm giving it (or him) another chance and so the future looks brighter with renewed fate and beliefs.

August came in heavy in emotion and a sudden urge to escape. The long awaited trip to Sagada and my goal of crossing out the first on my top 3 travel wish list loomed ahead, but typhoon Mina got in the way and gave me an unplanned sojourn in the cold and typhoon drenched city of Baguio.

Maybe it wasn't really time for me to get to know Sagada yet. So I'm putting it yet again on my top travel wish list for 2012.

September took a dragging. Though nobody noticed it at work, I took advantage of the company and the time spent with my co-workers.

Their support was a tangible thing, not spoken but sincerely felt. And so I was very much grateful. Part of my September was the day trip to Silang Cavite and Tagaytay.

view of Mt. Mayon from the
2nd flr of Embarcadero

And, still experiencing that emotional turmoil, being okay and not okay, I seek refuge in the comfort of being with my son, Teloyskie. I took a vacation home and came back to work with a vengeance.

When October came in, everything was set

on a roller coaster ride. My "home" project started, as well as a food trip saga. I've been wanting to move into another apartment for the longest time, and the search started for this month. Along with it was some amazing food discoveries.

The burger project in Maginhawa St. in Teacher's village allowed me to customize my burger and gave me my first taste of blueberry milk shake.

This also made me work on gaining weight so people around me started taking me dining and food tasting. But still I was more into coffee tasting and how I love meet ups with fellow Aquababes Debie and Osh at Toastbox for a cup of skinny coffee!

Work also became demanding along with a new and demanding boss. Busy could not completely describe how this month was, then it ended with a work related trip to Fontana Leisure park in Pampanga.

November was a blast! This month took me to my top 2 travel wish list for 2011 - Davao. Though it was a rush 48 hour experience, it was still a trip that took me to the southern part of the country - Mindanao!

It was a busy work-related trip but we were also able to go around the souvenir shops suggested at the in-flight magazine of Cebu Pacific - Smile Magazine.

I also took my mandatory leave in the middle part of November so I was also able to visit Teloyskie for his 5th Birthday! Happy!

December probably was the busiest part of my year with the long list of events and activities. There were a lot of christening, bridal showers, weddings and Christmas parties. All these events, gave me some of the best time with my family and friends. And showed me all things that I should be more thankful for - the people who were with me all this time. Thank you for all the love and support! Another year comes, and I have 365 more days to show my appreciation and love for all of you.

Pinoy Christmas Espesyal: Puto Bumbong

2011-12-26T05:30:00.000-08:00

Puto Bumbong with Cheeze

Two of the season's specialty for Pinoy are puto bumbong and bibingka. Soon as the Christmas air is felt, you will notice stalls and stores selling these two favorites. I bought my first puto bumbong and bibingka early in November when I passed by a stall in Arayat market in Cubao where I also got a free bibingka!

Tonight I realized that Christmas season is soon over but my Teloy still haven't tried having a puto bumbong. I'll try to find something around Legazpi tomorrow night if they are still around.

Albay: Ramdom Things

2011-11-30T08:24:00.001-08:00

I spent my mandatory leave vacation in last Nov 15-22 in Daraga, Albay. I filed it on those days because it was also Teloy's birthday for that week. I haven't done much exploring around Albay this time because of the unpredictable weather and rain everyday. I just made do with spending days with Teloy and my new nephew Enzo.

My mom asked me and Teloy to accompany her to Daraga water district to pay our water bill. It is located on the same hill where the famous Daraga Church sits on top. So while mom wait in line and sits comfortably to wait for her turn, Teloy and I decided to explore a little of the church and see how the restoration is going on.

A pretty cloudy day: no Mt. Mayon in sight

The Church Facade covered in lime, soon the Belfry will be too.

Daraga church is a natural heritage site and is currently undergoing restoration process. A couple of months ago, I was really shocked when I saw the church facade in what appears to be white paint. I later read from a newspaper that it was in fact lime coating which will prevent further deterioration. Some construction was also happening around the church especially along the cliff overlooking the town and the magnificent Mt. Mayon.

Before heading back to Manila, I shopped around for pasalubongs and searched for what one of my office mates wanted - an ashtray with Mt. Mayon cover. I found it and some really good stuff at a stall in 2nd floor of Lando Pacific Mall.

Mt. Mayon Ashtray

Ibalong Chess Set

Ibalong Characters

Mt. Mayon display plate.

These products are made from volcanic materials brought down by the floods of typhoon Reming exactly 5 years ago - November 30, 2006.

Aside from these, I bough some pili of course and my favorite toasted siopao (they don't have toasted siopao anywhere in Manila!!)

A 48 Hour Davao City Experience

2011-11-15T09:49:00.001-08:00

Davao was on my wish list for this year's places I want to visit. I've never been to Mindanao and Davao City seemed to be the best places for first timers.

When I was informed that a workshop will held in Davao and I'd be going as one of the facilitators, I was ecstatic! Finally, finally! Yes I was very much excited, but when I learned of the schedule, I didn't know how I can make room for some sight-seeing anymore.

It was a tight 2-day 1-night trip to Davao to handle a 2-day workshop. The trip started with the first flight Manila-Davao on Cebu Pacific. We were on the move by 1AM and all I had for sleep was a 30 minute shut eye on the plane. Cebu Pacific's in flight magazine SMILE for this month featured a cheap 3 day trip which made me even more envious. I know that I won't be able to do much sight-seeing on this trip but I was still hoping...

After the 1st day of workshop, the team were able to get some well deserved snoozed before dinner. We all stayed and conducted the workshop at Grand Men Seng Hotel which is located at the heart of Davao City. It has spacious rooms, great service and great food!

Lovely but Pricey Pearl Jewelry at Grand Men Seng Hotel Lobby

Buffet Area

A Room for 2

Some plans were made to drive around and maybe go up the hilltop (Jack's ridge) but it didn't materialize. We ended instead at a bar-grill called Level UP.

The only "Cake" i couldn't eat ~ Durian Cake

GMSH rice, Chop Suey and Chicken Cordon Blue

pandan cakes from the desert bar

yummy brownies from the desert bar

when buying candied durian, only Lola Abon is the one.

The second day of workshop ended early which gave us some time to shop around for pasalubongs and souvenirs. The trip ended with a supposedly 2140 flight back to Manila which was delayed... (nothing here really), but it was alright because I was able to wait comfortably at Davao International Airport's VIP lounge. It was my first time to be in such a place.

This trip gave me 3 major experiences:

First time to set foot in Mindanao
First time to lounge around in an airport's VIP lounge
First time that i didn't like a cake (took a big slice pa naman, unknowingly it was a Durian Flavored Cake!!)

All in all, my Davao Experience as measured in hours is:

16 hours of travelling and/or waiting in airports (VIP lounge), cars, plane;
14 hours of workshop proper (all efforts on keeping awake and keeping boredom away)
5 hours of sleep
5 hours wasted with "payabangan" guys (should have just slept and avoided tantrum attack)
5 hours of pasalubong and souvenir hunting.
3 hours spent mostly eating :D

spot the difference!

Buy fresh fruits at Marcofi corner San Pedro St. in Bangkerohan Davao City

Aldevinco Shopping Center have everything pasalubong that you will need

Necklaces @ P25 each and bracelets @ P15 each

brass bells for your homes

I do have plans to go back. I have to experience Samal Island yet, I want to Climb Mt. Apo and I want to meet a Philippine Eagle! So Au Revoir Davao City. UNtil we meet again! :)

Puerto Princesa Underground River: Its Nature at its Best

2011-11-12T10:08:00.001-08:00

When the voting for the new 7 wonders of nature started, i was really proud that the Philippines has a nominee! Yes I voted for it soon as i could and wished that someday when I am able I'd be able to visit the place. Explore and see what the hype is all about.

Last May13-15, my wish of visiting Palawan and exploring the Underground River was realized. What made this trip more exciting is that I am with my well-loved friends! We were big group and a tour was arranged with Sea Adventure. Im not sure how much was spent all in all but we did enjoy the island hopping, underground river tour and the city tour (only paid for my airfare and Php3,000 for 4days/3nights food, accommodations and tours).

The highlight of the trip is of course the Underground River Tour. The trip to Sabang which is 50km north of PPC took about 2 hours, was mostly spent snoozing. The view greatly improved when nearing Sabang. You can see limestone karst mountains where the UR flows underneath. The sight might remind you of Pandora in the movie Avatar :)

A short boat ride awaits at Sabang port which will take you to the mouth of UR. You'll get a good view of Sabang beach and other limestone karst on the way. You can explore some part of the densely vegetated beach which you will pass to get to the mouth of the cave. Then a paddling boatman with take you to navigate inside the UR. The Underground River of Palawan is considered as the largest. It is about 8.2 kilometers long, but only 1 or 2 kilometer is allowed for tourist exploration.

The cave has major stalactite and stalagmite formations as well as huge chambers. It has many channels too but most of them are closed from public. Im thinking of bringing Teloyskie there one day. I bet he'd be intrigued by the bat cave chamber mentioned by the bankero. The cave was definitely huge - something that might just leave you wondering, "how can nature ever create something like this?"

Go Aqua! Legazpi Dragon Boat Exhibition Race 2011

2011-10-17T04:02:00.000-07:00

One of the highlights for this year's Legazpi City Port fiesta is the Dragon Boat Exhibition Race which will happen on October 22, 2011 8am at the Embarcadero de Legazpi. Our team AQUA FORTIS CREW will be participating in the said event, though I won't be paddling with my team in my very own province I still be will be there to support them.

Dragon boat paddling is one of the sports which flourished this year with the International winnings of our dragon boat national and club teams. So I'm inviting everyone to join me in cheering for our dragon boat paddlers in Legazpi. Oars Up! Let's Paddle Hard and Party Harder!

at the CamSur International DB Fest 2010

Cobra Regatta

Boracay International Dragon Boat Festival 2011

(*All pics courtesy of my team mates :))

Road Trippin: Bataan's Mt. Samat and Dambana ng Kagitingan and Side Trip Bataan Pawikan Conservatory

2011-10-17T03:18:00.000-07:00

Last year in August, the team's guide in Taiwan DB race, Ho-Chi Lin or Jean visited Philippines. I was lucky to join them in visiting some places around the Metro. One of my favorite part of the road trip is going up Mt. Samat and checking out Dambana ng Kagitingan. This historical site is in Pilar, Bataan. This memorial shine complex was commissioned in 1966 by war veteran himself, then President Ferdinand Marcos for the 25th anniversary of the 2nd world war.

Dambana ng Kagitingan's distinct feature is the 92 meter high cross with a base that depicts the heroism of the Filipino and American Soldiers who fought the Japanese Imperial Army in 1942.

The complex is like an open museum which displays some of the works of our National artists. There is a fee for visitors to the complex, it's P30.00 for foreigners and P20.00 for Filipinos. Students pay discounted fee of only P10.00. Parking fees range from P20.00 to P30.00.

Places such as this should always be considered for road trips especially when you are with visitors from other countries. You can learn a lot from what you see and observe from such historical and cultural places.

a view from the top

SIDE TRIP: Pawikan Conservatory, Nagbalayong, Morong, Bataan

Pawikans (Turtles) have special place in my heart. A good friend of mine was called "pawikan" and he seemed to have lived up to his name when he died saving his nephew from drowning. One of the places we visited while in Bataan was this Pawikan Conservatory.

It is a common knowledge that turtles are considered as endangered species - with threats mostly from human activities such as poaching, slaughter, egg gathering, illegal fishing and others.

The Bataan coasts of Morong and Bagac are nestling grounds of 3 turtle species in the country - Hawksbill, Olive Ridley and Green Turtle. A community organization in Morong, Bataan named Bantay Pawican Inc. started the community based conservation program Marine Turtles with the help of the Provincial Government and UNDP-GEF-SGP-PRRM in 1999.

The collective efforts and growing involvement of different organizations and people in Bataan is a reassuring move to make the beaches of Bataan a safe and protected nestling area for different turtle species.

(*pictures courtesy of Jean)

Travel Albay: View of The Magnificent Mayon from an Albayano

2011-10-13T06:03:00.000-07:00

I was born and raised in Albay Province - the city of smiles, the heart of Bicolandia and the home of the Magnificent Mayon Volcano. For the 23 or so years of my stay in Daraga, Albay, i would wake up seeing Mt. Mayon through my open windows. I would walk downtown with the mystic Mayon always in my peripheral vision. My elementary school located in Daraga have Mt. Mayon in plain sight. And so is my high school in Sagpon and my college back in Daraga, Albay. Everywhere I go in the province of Albay, I have Mt. Mayon as a beautiful landmark.

Spectacular Mt. Mayon taken at Lignon Hill after an early morning run (Dec 2010)

I can say that know every side of the volcano, I even hiked up to Camp 1 back in 2004. I know how it looks like when you travel to the first or third district. From Daraga or Legazpi - Mt Mayon looks bold and beautiful on your left and the clear crystal waters of the Albay Gulf on your right when you travel to Tabaco or Tiwi. When you go travel to Guinobatan, Ligao or Polangui from Daraga or Legazpi, Mt Mayon would appear nearer and you'll have rolling green fields and hills on your left.

Despite the fiery eruptions that happens once in every 10 years, Mt. Mayon remains a steadfast symbol of Albayanos' pride and resiliency. When I left Albay to work here in Manila, I was always ecstatic to see Mt. Mayon every time I travel back home. Even when I'm still on a bus or aboard a plane, the first sight of Mt. Mayon when I we enter the province always feels like seeing it for the first time but at all the same, it gives me the comforting feeling of being at home. Yes, despite the dangers of living a few kilometers off the danger zone, I am home and I am safe in the same land I share with the Magnificent Mayon.

But just lately, some tourism sham have claimed that Mt Mayon is in Camarines Sur? What?! Where again?! Nueva Camarines? How the heck can that happen? Since when?Camarines Sur is 2-hours drive away from Albay and you can't even see the tip of Mt. Mayon when you are in Camarines Sur!

Where is??

I have much love for the entire Bikolandia, and when you talk about the region I'd proudly say that there are so many wonders in BICOL Region including Mt. Mayon. But as an Albayano, growing up under the proudly beautiful Mt. Mayon is my pride. Wherever life takes me, I'd never lose my way back home - where Mt. Mayon is, that's where my home is.

So for those who wants a glimpse of this wonder - the perfectly cone shaped Mt Mayon is located in Albay, about 460km south of Metro Manila. There are two easy ways to commute to Albay.

By Bus. There are a long line of commuter buses going to Albay and you can find most of them at the Araneta Terminal Station in Cubao. Fare ranges from 350 to 900 depending on the kind of bus you want. One of the best commuter bus servicing Manila-Albay (Legazpi/Tabaco) is Cagsawa Travel and Tours, Inc.

By Plane. Philippine major airlines has daily flights to Legazpi. You can check for schedules and promo fares from AirPhil Express, Cebu Pacific Air, Zest Air and Philippine Airlines.

So don't get lost and let tourism shams lead you on as they probably aim to rip you off with pricey tourism packages. Mt. Mayon is a symbol associated with the province of Albay. It's nowhere in the Camarines. Take it from a local.

Gotong Alikabok On A Cold Pre-Pedring Day

2011-09-29T23:54:00.000-07:00

One of the most common choices for comfort foods are those that are hot and steamy - something really good for the rainy season. Im lucky to be in an office that has similar cravings and great appreciation for different kinds of food. On the eve of Pedring's wrath, somebody brought us servings of Goto ( a kind of rice porridge which uses ox tail as is main ingredient) and a lot pandesal with dairy creme.

On a cold rainy day, nothing beats the warm, cozy comfort that these foods bring.

San Isidro Labrador Feasts in Quezon

2011-09-24T03:21:00.000-07:00

Back in May 2009, I received an invitation from Viajes Filipinas, the travel agency we contact for booking work-related trips to join their yearly Day Tour of the different festivities in Quezon Province celebrating the feast of San Isidro Labrador.

We will be visiting 3 towns namely, Lucban, Sariaya and Tayabas. The highlight of the trip was the Lucban's Pahiyas Festival which is no doubt the most colorful and grandest among the 3. Each year, the procession of the image of San Isidro Labrador changes and so only the houses along its path are decorated.

lucban longganisa

"kiping"

Before we left for the town of Sariaya, we took a side trip to Kamay ni Hesus Retreat Center. This can be reached via a tricycle ride from Lucban.

Afterwards we set off for Sariaya for the Agawan, another celebration for the feast of San Isidro Labrador. The church as well as the houses are decorated with foods and produce which the people would take for the Agawan later in the day.

The last town we visited is Tayabas, Quezon. Here they have the Mayohan, another kind of celebration for San Isidro Labrador. The image of the Saint takes a procession late in the afternoon and once they passed by the houses, suman and other rice goodies are thrown to the participants.

This day tour was one of the first freebies i got. I could also say that it was my first solo trip to unknown towns. I met a couple of ladies, Tita Ruby and her niece Anel and they took me with their company in going around the towns.

Teloyskie's "Bigger" Bike

2011-09-22T21:43:00.000-07:00

I bought Teloy's first bike when he was almost two years old. It was a red tricyle (because it had 1 wheel in front and 2 at the back. It showed McQueen on a hard carboard but not a week had passed when Teloy had already removed this board. And a few months after he turned 4, this bike was destroyed. He must have grown to big and heavy for it so some parts of it gave in.

Two months ago, I bought Teloy his new bike. This time, it has bigger two wheels and a pair of balancer. They used to just stare at bigger boys and their bigger bikes and now he's ecstatic to have his own. However, he was really nervous at first and worry was written all over his face when he started pedaling around. I know he's just getting used to it, but as his mom, I was also quite worried that he'd get more bruises when he falls off this bigger bike. I don't know how to ride a bike myself and this is one dream I have on my bucket list. To learn to ride a bike and probably join a bike out. But well, this time it's just Teloyskie's turn. I hope he grows to love the outdoor and being active more.

Baguio: The Solo Sagada Failed Ending

2011-09-13T01:37:00.000-07:00

i've been forever planning to have my own solo trip. been checking the SAGGA's website, researching and browsing every topic pertaining to Sagada very so often. And when the 4-day weekend came, i was ecstatic! this is it i said to myself, I'm going! There aren't anything that can stop me then, i made reservations already and all i need to do is travel. i feel confident about this though a bit anxious too because its going to be my first solo trip. (not to mention a day trip to experience Pahiyas Festival in 2008).

Well, yeah it FAILED. I can hear Bagyong Mina, laughing and taunting me while i was stuck in Baguio. But what the heck, I was just too thankful for not being so bull-headed and heeding my friend/officemate's advice to travel in the middle of the storm. Lalai, my officemate lives in Baguio but her family is a local of Bontoc. When we arrived in Baguio on a stormy early Saturday morning, and she told me that she will take me to the terminal once the weather get better. She was firm and told me she knows the weather and the way more than me so i should believe her when she tells me its not safe to go.

The rain didn't stop all day, so Lalai suggested that I leave for Sagada the next day and just join them for a buffet breakfast at The Manor before I leave. So i just slept the whole Saturday in their cozy home.

Next day, we all headed for The Manor, it is located inside Camp John Hay. This hotel is really impressive and I think I'd never consider visiting it in some other time or company. For one, it is quite pricey, but having visited this once, I think a stay here would be quite worth it.

The Manor Hotel, Camp John Hay Baguio City

breakfast buffet at the Manor (P500 adults, P250 kids)

After our breakfast, Lalai took me to Dangwa to check for trips to Sagada, (my oh my) there are no trips because of some landslides. We headed to a jeepney terminal which travels to Bontoc, again no vail. People around had been buzzing about landslides and the non stop rainfall which might cause more landslides. This time I gave in. Well at least I've tried, and there are still next times for me to follow through with my Solo Sagada. Later that Sunday, a relative of Lalai told us about the Lizardo bus which fell off a cliff due to the landslide last Saturday. I can't help but think that if I've been really bull-headed and stubborn the day before, it would have been my bus that fell off the cliff!

going around Maharlika Market for pasalubongs

baguio day4. late lunch at cafe veniz after buying pasalubongs

I'm so thankful despite being stuck in Baguio in the midst of Bagyong Mina. I was cozily spoiled by the warm and hospitable family of Lalai for 4 days!

craving for comfort foods to comfort coughs and cold

2011-09-12T21:45:00.000-07:00

rainy days and constant weather changes mean only one thing - colds. the common colds is one of those things i hate the most. especially when it is accompanied by cough or a headache, everything just seems to slow down or stop.

being sick makes one listless, lifeless and constantly abed. it also makes one crave for certain foods that can give comfort and a bit of life. "comfort foods" as we call them are those that can bring us happy feelings and memories because they are prepared traditionally. for different people, their comfort foods might be the ones prepared by their moms or grandmothers.

and while i feel the ill-effects of having coughs and colds and the rainy weather outside, i simply can't help but crave for goto, or arroz caldo. FN's list of Wet Weather Eats got me really hungry think of all those mouth-watering comfort foods. Unfortunately, the only thing i have in my fridge is a pack of instant noodles and a couple of oatmeal cookies. should get better soon and get myself a bowl of that hot and tasty goto or arroz caldo!

Staycating and Ice Cream

2011-09-02T23:38:00.000-07:00

After my failed Solo Sagada Trip last week which got me stuck in Baguio due to typhoon Mina, I'm staycating here at home this weekend. A weekend by myself and I hope I won't get bored. I made a list of all the things I could do before my next batch of assignments come in.

First there's the load of laundry to do. That's a very domestic thing but I've learned that there are a lot of ways to make things even simpler while we're doing the laundry.FN article on Laundry Tips you should follow helped me care for my clothes better by doing the laundry the right, easy and simpler way.

After the laundry and being hungry makes me think of food. I'm too lazy to cook up a meal for myself, but the good thing is, the Big Scoop Ice Cream is just at the corner. This probably is one of my favorite places to dine in here in San Juan. They have heavenly flavored ice creams that can make you forget your name (that's according to my cousin). Value Meals at Big Scoop is around Php150 and that includes a glass of ice tea and a scoop of ice cream. My favorite ice cream flavors are Strawberry Fields and Pistachio! Big Scoop Ice Cream is located at N.Domingo Street San Juan City. Just in front of Mini Stop and Pinaglabanan Shrine :)

This weekend is also saved for the bunch of books I bought in Baguio. Will start reading and catch some reviving snooze later while I can.

Reading: Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel

2011-09-01T21:30:00.000-07:00

to keep from thinking things i shouldn't be thinking about, i usually resign myself to reading. a habit i have which despite heartaches and heartbreaks still made me think and believe in happy ever afters.

this book, like water for chocolate by laura esquivel is a fresh read from historical romances, vampire stories and mysteries that i was used to reading. it is witty and funny with all the exaggerated stories and descriptions. the mexican tradition for family and women is also very informative and enlightening. i felt quite lucky not be under any of those strict traditions they have and to have an understanding Mama. the book not only told of a love story, it was also about war, food and sex during the Mexican Revolution. I have a great sympathy for the Mexicans and I have always tried to practice the little Spanish i knew from college. This book really warmed my heart and palette at a time when i needed it. Simply again, it made me realize that love knows no tradition, pride, norms nor time. Love will wait, it will never fade.

My favorite line from the book would be about the matches Dr. John Brown talked about. I think he is also my favorite character in the book.

"Each of us is born with a box of matches inside us but we can't strike them all by ourselves; we need oxygen and a candle to help. In this case, the oxygen for example, would come from the breath of the person you love; the candle would be any kind of food, music, caress, word, or sound that engenders the explosion that lights one of the matches. For a moment we are dazzled by an intense emotion. A pleasant warmth grows within us, fading slowly as time goes by, until a new explosion comes along to revive it. Each person has to discover what will set off those explosions in order to live, since the combustion that occurs when one of them is ignited is what nourishes the soul. That fire, in short, is its food. If one doesn't find out in time what will set off these explosions, the box of matches dampens, and not a single match will ever be lighted.

*Dr. John Brown - Like Water for Chocolate"

the book was made into a movie and i hope i can find a copy and watch it soon.

Reading, Thinking and Planning

2011-09-01T02:01:00.000-07:00

My mom always considered me the layas, the lakwtsera and sometimes she even thinks that I might not settle down despite having a son. I know I would someday, maybe until I tame my wanderlust. I know it's not anytime soon but I will.

In my 29 years, I didn't have a lot of achievements nor savings. I can consider myself as a live-for the moment gal. I know how to enjoy life and face my issues. Because of this, a lot of people think that I'm tough - yes I also think so, but there are cases when I have a hard time convincing myself that I am indeed tough. And over the years, I found that I enjoyed my time alone travelling as I contemplate on the things that I have experienced, observed and felt.

I've blogging as an outlet to steam off, to have a venue for my excitement and experiences with my son and for a many other reasons. While I enjoy writing and earning during my free time, I also started reading, and the more I read about travel journals and experience by fellow Filipinas who also loved travelling, I realized that I too wanted to write like that... yes, the blogs I follow got me more inspired and motivated to recount my lakwatsa moments. The blogs like Nina Fuente's JustWandering.org or NoSpamNoVirusNoKidding and SoleSisters' blog have encouraged me to go on and scratch the itch - to travel, to discover and simply to experience.

So, even with my spontaneous nature, I am now trying to plan things out - possible trips, moonlighting, how i can travel around with my son during his school vacations and others... and I've started it with one big step, getting my passport for the first time and I'll be receiving it on Monday! Yahoo!

T'was the Year of the Good, the Bad and the Ugly

2011-01-06T18:54:00.000-08:00

2010 started unfriendly with me. I was job ess and broke - scrimping on the meager writer's earnings for my board and lodging. It was indeed an ugly yet challenging start for a part time student, part time writer, long distance mom and a restless viajera like me.

Work and Studies

Career-wise, the past year placed me in a state of crisis. I lost almost all confidence in my writing, I've a number of unfinished projects which I shamelessly ignored and forgot. I felt the need to do something else aside from staring blankly on empty computer screen. Even school papers seemed too much to digest for my ulcerated brain. After finishing the semester, I got two jobs - one which lasted for 2 months and another which lasted for about 3 months.

My stay at the first one was short and sweet, it was fun yet two months wasn't enough for me to be fully engaged in the job. I was pirated by the next job in just a matter of hours. We all thought that I'd be swimming in here like a fish in the water soon as I jumped in but it just wasn't like that. I was overwhelmed all the time and it seemed like I couldn't get things right anyway I do it. Soon I learned to love and hate the job and the people, the trips, the overtime work and all else in between. But again, something else came up, with better offers and a more interesting job description - and finally that is where I am right now.

For what went well in my work and studies: Learned to prioritize

What went wrong: Procrastination, Failing to plan and planning to fail..

Places for improvement: writing and reading habits, schooling (again), personal development

Travel and Leisure

Despite being broke, I was able to go to different places and experience new things- thanks to some good old souls! :)

Some of the best trips I had happened this year though they were all confined here in Luzon.

Q1 took me to Mt. Pulag in Benguet with Roslee, Jane and Tons, Baguio, Anawangin Cove in Zamabales and Mt Batulao in Batangas.

Q2 was spent in Tagaytay, EK then in Bicol where we once again visited Amater to relive our high school and college vacation days. It was also during this period that I experienced Nagsasa - which is now one of my most favorite places in Luzon and the Mt. Tarak climb which rendered me crippled for a couple of days in July.

Q3 trips where all limited to OB's except for Jean's vacation in September. I was able visit most part of Laguna such as LB, Sta. Cruz, Liliw, Pila, Nagcarlan, Majayjay and others as part of a field trip with Health Implementers. I also spent a week in Albay for a training and this gave me precious time with Teloy while working. Q3 also took me to Calaruega, a quiet beach in Bataan, a turtle conservatory and to Mt. Samat.

Q4 started with an epic trip to Luisiana, Laguna then to Cam Sur for the 1st CamSur Int'l. DB Fest. A month was spent in Bicol and then the rest of this period was consumed by gigs, gimmicks and parties.

For lack of anything else to do, I spent a lot of time climbing walls and seriously rowing. And just when I think i was getting good at climbing, work turns up and made me busy. So I need to do this again regularly, luckily found climb buddies and we've now set some scheds.

This has got to be the good or best part of my 2010. The last part should be the Bad, but it's not actually bad.. just a realization of thoughts, decisions and moves which made me feel bad and worked out to be better.

People

I've met and got to know many incredible people this year. They've spiced up my 2010 with much life, laughter and love.. hehe and I also strengthened the ties I have with the bestest of friends. Thanks for the connection, for being awesome, for the learnings you've shared, for the inspiration and for continuously nudging me when everything seems to stack up.

2010 is also a year of losing and gaining..

of failure to keep communication lines open,

of keeping mum about issues best resolved openly..

of being unassuming and ignoring..

it is a year of avoidance..

But then, this year made me appreciate some very important people in my life - my family. In the past years of working here in Manila, I wasn't able to spend much time with them especially my Teloyskie. 2010 gave me a couple of months to be a hands-on mom to my son. I got to know him better - his likes, his interests, his tempers, his attitudes and his character.

I learned how mule-headed we are both.

How to tease him mercilessly until he grow mad.

How to quiet down his cries with a promise of chocolates.

How to repair broken bikes and dislocated car wheels,

I learned to kiss skinned knees and chase 'lagnat-laki' away,

with cuddles and even tighter squeeze. :)

My family has always been very supportive and it was this year that I have fully appreciated them. I've never thanked them enough for the things they did for me and my son. 2010, with all the challenges tied to it made me realize this like a slap in the face. Been too caught up with my issues earlier on 2010 that I overlooked the challenges that my family is going through at the same time. Eventually life shook me hard enough to see this. As the year comes to end, everything seems to fall into their places...

When 2011 closes I'd be 10/10 satisfied if I can achieve these ~

1. closer family ties. more vacations spent at home and being a mom to Teloy - (non quantifiable)

2. debt free!

3. complete DPM asap!

4. learn to ride a bike..

5. climb Mt. Apo

6. go back to writing

7. cross out at least 10 off my goal list for 2010.

Habits to cultivate to achieve my goals..

An essential technique I've learned this year is to take notes.. we take notes to remember things... and we write to de-clutter our minds.

There are still a lot of loose ends but 2011 came in friendly with a bright career path ahead. There are promises of more travel, learning and discovering.

writer on haitus

2010-11-26T20:01:00.000-08:00

i've visited this blog many times in the past couple of months only to be depressed at the things i read. the last readable post was written months ago. i have gone on a forced haitus, but hopefully i can get back to writing here soon as i settle into my new work environment... ciao!!

Club Can't Handle Me by Flo Rida

2010-08-31T07:07:00.000-07:00

...you know i know how.. to make 'em stop and stare as i zone out...

i'm really looking forward to the movie step up 3D. this is just one of the soundtracks and it's sizzling hot!

soy desaparicida!

2010-08-30T03:25:00.000-07:00

yeah i'm lost.. constantly these days.. july 7 is like a lifetime ago.. it felt like a different world that i'm moving in right now.. back then, my only worry is how not to make another late in coming to the office because i already have 3 and i'm only allowed five during my probi period. then came the interview and like a whirlwind, i moved into another dimension.. where i thought i belonged.. and then i wasn't even sure.

i guess the expectation was just too much or i was just into a lot of stress that i wasn't able to try harder. still the learnings i've got from here is valuable and i know that the training will be put into good use later on.

Struggling with the Probi Stat..

2010-07-07T03:01:00.000-07:00

being new at my job gave me the probationary status. for the next 6 months starting from the date i was hired, i am not allowed to make absences, except for 5 emergencies. this is why i have put my travelling shoes and flops to rest. 6 months is not that long, and there are always the weekends for me to use up.

a lot of my friends tell me that work is just that.. but how can we sustain our travels, hobbies and activities if we got no money right? not to mention that my mom is having a hard time budgeting the least i send for teloy. argh! the single-working-long distance-mom issues!

the corporate world have not much appeal to me but it's paying me decently and i'm starting to like what i do here. so the sudden invite from a government agency to interview me was really shocking. i am very much interested in the job opening there, but i am torn, what if i didnt make it in the interview, and what if they wouldn't really hire me? going to the interview would mean, not going to work for a day, and if they invite me once again, that will be another absence. i don't want my performace to suffer but I'm hoping to get to a right decision here.

Win The Body Shop Moisture White Shiso Products! | Promos & Freebies | FemaleNetwork.com

2010-06-02T18:17:00.000-07:00

Win The Body Shop Moisture White Shiso Products! Promos & Freebies FemaleNetwork.com

Yes I'm re-blogging it! Summer's already over and the effects of too much beach bumming and "lakwatsa" has taken it's toll on my skin. My once fair complexion is now gone and I accept that I do look like one of the locals in one of the beaches I've been too. It's not that dark skin is bad, but I am hoping to get back into my old fair-skinned complexion and maybe more healthier skinned this time.

I want to get that The Body Shop Moisture White Shiso Products! The improved formulation now has vitamin C, shiso, organic aloe vera and liquorice to help reduce dark spots and dullness. I could win one Moisture White Kit with Foaming Facial Wash, Shiso Whitening Serum, Shiso Cleansing Powder, Shiso Eye Serum, Shiso Whitening Night Treatment and UV Protection Cream plus more. That's everything I need to get fairer, more luminous skin now that summer's over. You can win this too! Share up and visit Femalenetwork.com for more details.