Adventures in Life

Oops! It Hit Me Again

2018-10-28T00:04:00.003+08:00

I never thought something like this could hit me again. I am 44 years old now. But somehow it hit me again.

My heart races. I get excited. I get goosebumps. I could watch. Listen. Stare. All day.

Mr. Cupid hit me again. The fourth time. But, before I say to whom my heart races for at this time and age, I'll first talk about the other three men in my life. :)

MICHAEL KEATON. Batman.

(Image source : http://batman.wikia.com/wiki/Michael_Keaton)

I am not really sure what I liked about him as Michael Keaton. But I sure loved him as Batman and Bruce Wayne. Maybe because, as I see it, Michael portrayed the character very well. Dark. Mysterious.

AGA MUHLACH. Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal/Sana Maulit Muli

(Image source : https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0611285/)

So many women love this man. Who wouldn't? Right? A combination of cute and handsome. Ever since I got hit, I have watched all his movies and TV shows, hehehe.

TOM HANKS. Sleepless in Seattle.

(Image source : https://www.altfg.com/film/sleepless-in-seattle/)

I don't know but, there is just something in Tom Hanks that makes me like him. I like his looks. His expressive eyes. Mesmerizing. I then watched his other movies that followed. :D

Of the 3 men above, Aga stayed with me the longest. I think about 15 years. Even when I know that Aga and I are from two different worlds, the thought of marrying him still crossed my mind. My heart was broken when he got married. Now I know I wouldn't stand a chance with him 'cause he's already married. My sister even teased me, "Basin magbulag na sila te" (Maybe they'd get separated). Hahahaha... My ever supportive sister. A crazy me. A crazier sister.

And when I was at the point in my life when I didn't anymore think of being married. I thought. I should just have a child and not marry. But the idea of sleeping with some man I don't love is out of the question. It is just not me. So. Again, the crazy me surfaced. I said to myself, "hmmm... mag artificial insemination kaha no?" (hmmm.. how about artificial insemination?). And where do I get a sperm cell? Well, where else? Without batting an eyelash, I confidently said, Aga Muhlach. His got good genes. Then my crazier sister said, "mosugot kaha si Charlene?" (Would Charlene agree?). The crazy sisters both laughing out loud. Hahahahahahahahahahaha

And now, for the 4th man that hit me. At this time. This age.

PARK HYUNG SIK. Strong Woman Do Bong Soon.

(Image source : http://officiallykmusic.com/heads-park-hyung-sik-jang-dong-gun-star-remake-suits/)

And now this. It was in August this year. When I started to watch Netflix. It was actually my husband who chose the movie. I just joined him and watched with him.

I was really caught off guard. I never thought in the middle of the TV mini series I'd be hit again. Fall in love again. I fell in love with the character. And as it was portrayed well by the actor, I grew to love the actor as well. My heart started racing. I can't wait to see him again.

So. When the TV series ended, I searched Park Hyun Sik. And read all about him. He will be 27 this November 16 hehehe. I watched video clips in Youtube of his past shows. And watched his other shows/movies.

Oh boy. He can act. He can sing. He can dance. And so damn good at it. Plus a natural model too. A perfect package if I may say.

Below are some photos of Park Hyung Sik which I screenshot from Youtube video clips.

His TV show "Strong Woman Do Bong Soon" is in Netflix titled "Strong Girl Bong Soon". And Hwarang.

He is a member of the ZE:A idol group which started in 2010. Check out his dance moves in this video. He's the guy in white shirt and cap.

He also sang original soundtracks of the movies he is part of : Strong Woman Do Bong Soon, Hwarang, High Society and Two Lights. Below is an original soundtrack of Strong Woman Do Bong Soon entitled "Because of You".

He is so cute. He is so handsome. And I think he is a good person too. I am captivated by him. I can't get over him. I can't move on. For now. I don't know how long this will last. But.

It hit me again.

The Journey Continues

2018-10-27T21:07:00.000+08:00

2014. The last post I made here.

2018. Four years. My blog has been asleep for 4 years. I thought I'd never write again. But somehow my mind seems to tell me to write again. I don't know. But I have to give this another shot. I have so much on my mind, I thought I'd better write it down to clear them out. And give space for new things. :D

(Image source : https://pixabay.com/en/the-way-road-way-road-trip-1208199/)

So, as time passes, I will again write my adventures in life. Memories will be the only thing I'll have when I grow old. And I don't know how much memory my brain will give me in the old age. So these blog posts will help me remember things that I may already forget.

And so. The journey continues.......

To The Road Less Travelled

2014-03-28T20:57:00.000+08:00

I have always wanted to go to Limunsudan Falls ever since I saw a picture of it. But for many years never got the chance. In 2011 though, I had a chance to see it, in aerial view (my story with that trip can be found here).

Aerial view of Limunsudan Falls, Barangay Buru-un

Then last year, when I started my business on souvenir items for Iligan City, I told Pat that we need to go to Limunsudan Falls so we could have our own picture of it which we can use in the souvenirs. And I need to talk to the Higaonon women for some project.

After waiting for quite some time, on March 14, 2014, my goal was finally accomplished! :-D

Pat and I, and some other members of the Iligan Bloggers Society left early morning for Limunsudan. But since the Iligan-Bukidnon Road is not yet completed, we have to take the other route - via Talakag, Bukidnon.

Picture-picture with the junction sign.

This is the Mamaon-Iligan Road Junction. We have to turn right to be able to reach the Limunsudan community.

This is the road leading to Limunsudan.

Unfortunately, the bridge that we would have to pass through was under repair. And our vehicle has a low body, it could not pass the alternate route. We have no choice but to hire habal-habal (motorcycles) to take us to Limunsudan.

We walked to get to the other side of the bridge where our new ride is waiting for us.

This is the submarine bridge. The rocks sure are big. :-)

Our ride for the rest of the way. Two persons for one motorcycle. :-)

All set to go!

From the bridge up to Limunsudan, the road is rough. No cemented portions yet. And some areas are really very rough. But even with the rough ride, I can't help but take photos along the way. I want to document it. I didn't know how my photos would turn out because of the bumps. I just took my chances and hope some would turn out not blurry. :-)

Balancing act of the driver with his motorcycle.

Selfie moment with Pat while the motor is moving. It turned out just the way I want it. :-)

Along the way, we also had some stops and hikes. The motorcyle drivers would let us walk when the road is a bit steep and the rocks are loose. This is to avoid accidents.

In this photo the road is ok.

In here, the road is muddy. If it will rain, it would be very slippery for the motorcycles. A 4-wheel drive vehicle would really be ideal.

Yes! After the bumps and the hikes, we finally reached Limunsudan community. :-)

Tribal Hall of Limunsudan where they hold their meetings and other gatherings.

Visitors have to register in their record book.

Inside the tribal hall. They have an area allocated for visitors.

It was timely when we arrived because the tribal leaders were gathering for some important meeting. We have to wait for them to be complete to do the ritual prayer that they need to perform for the visitors who want to view Limunsudan Falls. It is a way of getting permission from the spirits of the forest and to protect the visitors from the bad ones that no harm would happen to them. This is because the Limunsudan Falls is sacred to the Higaonons.

Before the prayer, each of us have to give halad (offering) to the spirits, any amount will do. Though I don't know where the offering will go hehehe :-D

The prayer ritual.

Picture-picture with the tribal leaders before heading to Limunsudan Falls. And it was good that we already had this photo before going to the falls because when we came back their meeting has already started.

The road leading to the parking area for the Limunsudan Falls. Also bumpy and a couple of stops and hikes. It is about 13 minutes from the tribal hall to the parking area, including the short hikes.

The 10-15 minute trekking starts here. :-D

I think this is about half-way of the trail. We have to climb 2 short steep slopes and then go down again. But less than 5 minutes on the trail we could already hear the sound of the waterfalls. The guide told us about the sound that could already be heard, hehe :-)

Tada! After climbing the first steep slope. This is what we saw!

After looking at it for a few seconds, selfie dayon! I didn't mind much the ants on the ground which were already biting me, hehehe ;-D

Jam took this photo for us. Thanks Jam. :-)

Climbing up for the second slope to where the viewing area is.

When we arrived at the viewing area, the rest were already silently watching Limunsudan Falls, mesmerized.

Prayer ritual to the spirits.

After each prayer ritual, the Higaonons chew on ma-ma' - a combination of a part of a seed from sort of a palm tree and a leaf. The guide showed us the tree and and its fruit. I forgot to take a photo of it. Here, Jeff took a piece of the ma-ma' to taste it. I wanted to taste it too but decided not to when the guide told us that it is very spicy and at times it will upset the stomach of first timers. I was having hyperacidity then. But I hope to really be able to taste it next time. :-)

One of the steep slopes. Here we are tracing back the trail going back to where the motorcycles are parked.

The resting shade for the trekkers! :-D

One of the hikes and stops in going back to the tribal hall from the falls.

A close up view of the river on upper tier of the falls.

A close up of the lagoon of the upper tier.

Given the chance to go back again, I would hope to get really close to the waterfalls. The guide said it is a 3-hour trek to the bottom of the falls, to and fro. Hmm.. maybe next time, hehehe...

I really had a sore body for two days caused by the trip. But I didn't mind. It was all worth it. :-D

Picture with some members of the Iligan Bloggers Society :-)

With My Love, who made it all possible :-)

Me and Limunsudan Falls, with the big smile on my face :-D

The Limunsudan Falls :-D

PS. Pat and I would like to thank DPWH-Iligan City for their assistance.

Nobody Loves Me Like You Do

2014-02-14T07:00:00.000+08:00

It's Valentine's Day once again. And today is my 11th Valentine's Day with Pat. As I was listening to Anne Murray's greatest hits on Youtube last night, I chance upon the song "Nobody Loves Me Like You Do".

Listening to the lyrics of the song, I found myself relating to it. And made me wonder

What if I never met Pat?
Where would I be right now?

Hmmm....

I don't know.

All I know is "life falls in place somehow".

Our very first picture together in November 2003.

Taken during our very first out-of-town trip at Cagayan de Oro.

Last night, I was supposed to make a video compilation of our pictures with the song "Nobody Loves Me Like You Do" as background music. But I couldn't get to download the song. So, I opted to post here the actual video of Anne Murray and Dave Loggins singing the song.

Happy Valentine's Day to my one and only Pat. :-)

More Valentine's Day with you.

I Finally Found You, Rick Springfield!

2014-02-13T16:20:00.000+08:00

After listening to Menudo greatest hits on Youtube about an hour ago, I checked the list for the next album I would like to play. Then, I saw Rick Springfield. I don't know him. But thought I'd give it a shot and listen to his songs. When I clicked the link, there was no description.

image source : http://www.pinterest.com/pin/476396466803015017/

BUT.

When the first few notes of the first song sounded, I literally shouted "AHHHHHHHHHHH!"

It has been the song I have been looking for for so many years now!

I met "him" (as I didn't know his name then), I think, when I was in grade 6 or early high school. My sister and I used to listen and watch his music video on TV. I can't remember what happened then, but our TV wouldn't show any regular shows from the TV station. It could be that was the time our antenna was damaged or the TV station couldn't get through locally. So, for a few months, we only get to watch music videos and some movies, repeatedly. That was the time I get to hear "him" and watched his videos repeatedly, hehehe

When the TV station regular shows came back, the music videos and movie replays disappeared. And I never saw it again, ever since. After some time, I forgot about it. And at times would wonder what are the title of those songs and who is the singer. I really liked the beat and the melody of the songs.

Then, I thought of searching it in Youtube. But how could I? When I don't know the title of the songs. I don't know the name of the singer. I can't remember a single song. All I remember are some scenes on the music videos and that the singer is so damn handsome! :-D

So, today, now, that I finally found him. I couldn't help but write about it. I am so excited, I sang and dance with some of the songs. I can't believe I still know some of the lyrics. And could still remember some scenes on the music videos as the song is playing. Oh yeah!

As I am writing this, I am still feeling the excitement as his songs are playing. I have close to 1 hour of Rick Springfield.

Below is the Youtube link I accidentally clicked. :-)

And found some of his videos I used to watch on TV. Yes!

I like his dimples here. :-D

My afternoon became a Rick Springfield day, hehehe..

It's wonderful meeting you again, Rick. :-)

PS. Rick is the same age with my father, born in 1949. :-D

Iligan's Keepsakes by Keepsakes Iligan Souvenirs and Crafts

2014-02-08T09:30:00.000+08:00

There was a time in my life (about in 2000) when I wanted to make souvenir items for Iligan City since there's not much Iligan souvenir items a tourist could bring back home. Just the usual Cheding's Peanuts and malongs.

But that was only written in a notebook as part of my "To-Do List" in the future.

Then, when I went to Germany in 2006-2007, that feeling again of making souvenir items for Iligan City surfaced as I toured a bit of Europe and saw that every place we visit always have souvenir items for tourists to bring back home.

Few years passed, still I was not able to even make a single item as possible souvenir for Iligan. Then the time came in 2011 when Pat already have many requests of souvenir items from tourists he accompanied. He then asked me if I could already start making my souvenir items.

So, I researched and tried creating some souvenir items. In 2012, I was able to make some refrigerator magnets and key chains. I ordered blank acrylic from Manila. And by end of September 2012, I decided to register a name for my business. And in January 2013, I secured a business permit to make my business legal and so that I could already pod labels on my souvenir items.

This post really is already so loooong overdue, hehehe. It took me quite a while to write this 'cause I couldn't get my thoughts to focus. I had so much on my mind then. :-)

Anyways, below were some of the first batch of key chains and refrigerator magnets I made. I used pictures of Maria Cristina Falls and Tinago Falls taken by Pat. I was not able to take photos of the other items though.

Framed-rectangle shaped key chain

House-shaped key chain

Small rectangle-shaped key chain with "I love Iligan" at the other side.

Square-shaped refrigerator magnets

My business is already one year old. It is not yet really that established but somehow it's beginning to pick up. I am currently also making a website for it. I'll update this post for the URL when it is already complete.

Busy or Lazy?

2014-02-07T19:27:00.000+08:00

Wow. It has been more than 4 months since my last post.

Was I busy then? Or just had a writer's block the past 4 months? hehehe

Surely, I have so much to write about. But somehow. Probably I got too lazy to think and focus. :-D

Well, I think I got very busy thinking of the things I need to do that I got lazy doing the very things. hahaha...

Image source : http://www.tehcute.com/lazy-sunday-afternoon.html

I have listed about 15 (or more) topics that I ought to post. Well, I'll try my best to have them published by end of February, hehehe. So, help me God. :-)

For a start, I have already finished writing one post (aside from this, hehehe) which will be published tomorrow. :-D

My Kalimulan Experience : A Dream Come True

2013-09-26T21:10:00.000+08:00

1990. I was on my fourth year of high school. I heard of the Kalimulan Dance Troupe. As I like to dance (though I don't know if I really dance well,hehe), I thought of joining the group. Have thought about it over and over again. And told myself, yes, I would definitely want to join the group.

But.

An announcement informed me that for anyone who wants to be a part of the Kalimulan Dance Troupe, one has to audition. And with their own cultural dance number.

I froze.

Audition? Dance Number? Oh NOOOOOOOO!!!

I don't have a dance number to use for the audition. I don't even know how to make one. :-(

I didn't know what to do then.

I sigh. And. Just ignored the audition. And moved on with life.

Or so I thought.

I studied in MSU-IIT for the next 4 1/2 years after high school. And every time I see the Kalimulan group practice and perform (since 4th year high school), my heart ache, telling myself I could have been one of them if I auditioned.

Then I graduated college, worked at city hall. Somehow, forgotten about my Kalimulan dream. Then 9 years ago, I married Pat, a very close friend of Mr. Christian Aguado, the Director of Kalimulan Dance Troupe. And every year, we get invited to attend the Kalimulan Anniversary celebration. And we get to see it almost every year.

Which. Brought me back to my dream that I thought I have already gotten over with. Every time the Kalimulan performs, I imagined myself dancing with them. My heart aches. Still.

But now.

After 23 years, from the day I set my mind on joining the Kalimulan. And. After 9 years of watching them perform, finally my wait is over.

On the 25th Anniversary of Kalimulan, Pat (finally) asked Sir Christian if it would be possible for me to join the Kalimulan when they dance during the Pagpakanaog ni Sr. San Miguel.   Sir Christian said yes and told me to be on the practice day (every Sunday at 1:00pm-5:00pm) at the CASS Lobby of MSU-IIT. That would be 4 Sundays before the Pagpakanaog, September 20, 2013.

I got excited. Finally, a step to making my dream come true. :-D

Yet. Something is not quite right.

Then it hit me! Sundays are my class day for my cooking/ baking. Ohhhhh nooooooo!!!!

Finally, my dream is now within reach. Why does it have to have conflicts? huhuhu

Pat said I have to make a decision.

After a heart-to-heart talk with Pat, we decided I take a leave of absence from my cooking class so I could join the Kalimulan practice. But since I also don't want to totally miss the lessons in the cooking class, I asked my sister to attend in my behalf and video record the discussions.   I know then that the time for me has come to perform with Kalimulan when my Cooking Instructor gave me permission to be absent and allowed my sister to attend for me.   And my sister cancelled all her Sunday activities for me.   Weeeeeeeeeeehhhh! I was really all smiles from ear to ear. :-D

Practice Day 1. I was asked to just observe first the performers practice and probably choose a dance set that I would want to perform. Pat went home to get a camera so I could video record all the dances.

No practice for Day 2. MSU-IIT Palakasan (Sports Fest).

So I have to content myself with the video. I studied their moves and tried to memorize the sequence of the dance that I want to perform.

Practice Day 3. Sir Christian was not around, but two Kalimulan members taught me the basics of the dance steps.   And they had me dance with a group to check. For my first official practice, I did some mistakes.   BUT. I was smiling from ear to ear when they told me I did ok. One male member even commented that I could still be a Kalimulan dancer (Pwede pa ka mag Kalimulan mam.). I was so happy I was wearing a big smile on my face as I walked out of campus. And as much as I want to tell Pat, then and there, I can't .   I forgot my cellphone at home, hehehe...

Practice Day 4. Last day of practice. Officially, my second time yet to practice with the group. And Sir Christian was there to watch the practice. And I got so tensed. I got conscious. The result? I made so many mistakes. Grrrr.... Ulaw kaayo ko!!! :-(

Tensed and pressured. Even as I practice at home, I could not get the steps right. It came to a point where I thought of quitting. Of cancelling my performance. But I know it would not be right. It would definitely hurt Sir Christian if I don't show up on the day.

So, even if I lost confidence in me, I showed up. And waited for our time to perform.

I can't describe the feeling I had when the first set of dancers started performing. I really had goosebumps all over my body. My heart felt so great. And I can't help but smile to myself.

This is it. Finally. :-D

Below are snapshots from my sister's video recording :

And, from a different angle, below are snapshots from Pat's video recording :

During the finale together with all of the performers :

Well, I did ok. I had a few mistakes, yes. But Pat said, for a first timer, I did better than some of the real dancers. Hmmm.... sipsip...hehehe...

Photo with Pat before the performance. All smiles. :-)

Photo at our house, after the performance. All smiles :-D

I asked my sister to video record my performance.

But, as the dance was about to finish, the camera's battery drained out. So, the recording was not complete. Good thing Pat also did a video recording. Below is Pat's video on a different angle.

Thank you Lord for another dream come true. Thank you Pat. Thank you Sir Christian. :-D

ISTIV - Succeeding in Business

2013-08-07T23:35:00.001+08:00

July 24, 2013. The 24th day of my new life. From being an employee (of 17 years) to being a budding entrepreneur. :-)

5 days before. I chanced upon a post in Facebook about a training on "Succeeding in Business" which was to be held in Elena Tower Inn on July 24, 2013. It's a Wednesday. I checked my schedule. Hmmmm... I'm free on that day. Of course! I don't anymore have a day job heheheh....

The poster though, only invited the hotels/inns/pension house, resorts and restaurants. So, I ask if a non-restaurant or hotel would be allowed to attend the training. The reply was, "this is a DOLE initiative targeted at hotels and restau mam". I got disappointed. Sayang. Gusto ko moattend.

The next day, I decided to contact DOLE and inquire. Since I don't have a landline at home, I asked my sister to call DOLE Iligan Office. And I was so happy with their reply. They said that any business could attend as long as it's a related to food. :-)

So, I told myself. I have a mango float consignment. And I definitely want to put up my own cafe-restaurant in the future.

So.

On July 24, 2013 9:00am. I registered to the training program at Elena Tower Inn. hehehe

I was glad I really attended the training. I learned so much from their inputs. As well as the inspirational messages from the DOLE Regional Director Atty. Johnson Cañete and the Board Secretary of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-X.

Some of the learnings I have during the training :

1. Operating a business is a partnership between the employer and the employee. Both are essential for a business to succeed.
2. A company is improved operation by operation. Not one-time.
3. A business operation should be planned according to the existing resources.
4. To improve one's business, you have to benchmark with other companies that have a higher level of success than yours.
5. To measure enterprise improvement, answer the questions a) how is your revenue? and b) what makes you click in the business environment?
6. Work smarter rather than harder. Be systematic.
7. People - workers and customers - are the asset of the company.
8. Aside from the salary, provide intrinsic rewards in recognition of a job well done by the workers. This is a way of motivating them to always do their best in their work.
9. Keep communications open between management and workers to encourage feedback and commitment.
10. Build team-based initiatives for improvement.
11. One way to improve productivity is to improve the arrangements of production facilities. Implement 5S technique.
12. Preventive maintenance is always better (and cheaper) than repairs and replacement. Make sure to regularly clean and check the equipment.
13. Encourage workers and managers to share ideas using joint problem-solving techniques.
14. Continually measure your progress to see if you are meeting your workplace cooperation and improvement goals.
15. Always monitor all aspects of the business - human resources, health and safety, purchasing/ supply chain, marketing/sales and production.
16. To implement 5S, the company must have continued commitment from top management as well as involvement of every employee.
17. Optimizing production flow will help to reduce wasted materials, time and energy.
18. The staff or employees are crucial to the success of a business. They are the front liners who deal with customers or make the products.
19. Safe work environment not only reduces risks but also improves overall working conditions and productivity.
20. A positive work environment is the foundation as well as the result of a good workplace cooperation.

It was a good day for me. I have my first accomplishment in less than a month of being at home. :-)

Too bad, I don't have any photos of the event. I sure brought a camera and took photos, but when I check earlier my files, I can't find them. Then I remembered, I formatted my memory card because it got infected by a virus. Thinking I have already downloaded the photos from the training. Grrrrrr...... What a life.

We had a group photo ops with the speakers though but I don't have a copy hehehe... I'll email DOLE and try to ask a copy of the photos.

I was thankful they allowed me to participate. Actually, I became a gate crasher to the training as it was really targeted on the hotels/inns/pension houses and restaurants and resorts for at the end of the program, the body was asked if the IHARRA (Iligan Hotels and Restaurants Resort Association) Industrial Tripartite Council could be organized for Iligan City. But the content of the training though is applicable to production business. It is also appropriate for my souvenir business, the Keepsakes Iligan Souvenirs and Crafts. :-D

Even as a gate crasher, I got a certificate too.

You might be wondering what ISTIV stands for in my blog title. I also wondered too, when I saw the poster for the training program. Well, ISTIV stands for

    Industrious
    Systematic
    Time-Conscious
    Innovative
    Strong Value for Work

They say this is how a business should be run. ;-)

Hmm.. I'll definitely keep this in mind.

Travel with Airbnb

2013-07-17T23:28:00.003+08:00

When I was in Germany last 2006-2007, I got to travel to some places during weekends. In one of the places I went to, most of their accommodation are of the guest house type. Not inns, hotels or pension houses. But residential houses converted into sort of an accommodation for tourists to stay in.

And I have always liked it. The place is homey. You get to interact with the owners in a more personal way.

I got excited when I learned of a company which offers travellers a choice of homey accommodations. You get to book your desired place to stay online. Hassle free. The company, Airbnb, based in California, USA is now in the Philippines. Oh yeah!

Image Source : http://www.techinasia.com/airbnb-focuses-on-philippines/

Now I know where to find a place to stay for my next trip. Below is a press release of Airbnb for their efforts in Cebu City.

- - - - - - -
Press Release | Airbnb in Cebu City

Cebu City, Philippines – July 2013 -- Airbnb, the world’s leading marketplace to list, discover and book unique accommodations, today announced its continuing expansion into Philippines with the beginning of focused efforts in Cebu City.

“Philippines is emerging as an exciting tourism and we expect significant demand for Cebu City, both for leisure and business travellers“ says Airbnb’s Philippines Country Expert, Joy Tacandong. “Cebu is both a business hub and increasingly a popular spot for travellers, and we’re keen to build this market.”

A few statistics on Airbnb’s growth in Cebu:

Top 5 nationalities that travel to Cebu on Airbnb are Americans, Koreans, Filipinos, Australians and Germans
Airbnb has over 1,600 listings in Philippines and plans to grow to at least 300 listings in Cebu
The total number of guests visiting Cebu through Airbnb has grown by over 300% in the last year

To support the growth in Cebu, Airbnb will host events and meet-ups to better support the existing community of users and grow the number of hosts in the city.

Airbnb is currently the world market leader in unique, short-term accommodations. In January the company celebrated 4 million guests. On any given night, over 50,000 guests are staying at Airbnb accommodations around the world.

About Airbnb:

Founded in August of 2008 and based in San Francisco, California, Airbnb is a trusted community marketplace for people to list, discover, and book unique accommodations around the world — online or from a mobile phone. Whether an apartment for a night, a castle for a week, or a villa for a month, Airbnb connects people to unique travel experiences, at any price point, in more than 33,000 cities and 192 countries. And with world--‐class customer service and a growing community of users, Airbnb is the easiest way for people to monetize their extra space and showcase it to an audience of millions.

Cebu Press Contact:
Joy Tacandong
philippines@airbnb.com

- - - - - - -

And here is a video on "How to Airbnb"

When I get to have a place of my own, I will have a space listed in Airbnb. :-D

For those who loves to travel and is always looking for a place to stay, use Airbnb.

And for those who have an extra space in their homes, list your place in Airbnb and earn extra income. :-D

A No-Cook Birthday Celebration

2013-07-06T23:07:00.001+08:00

Today, I turned 39.

And what I liked about the whole day is that I didn't get to cook a single meal, hehehe... Seems like the cook is on day off. :-)

Ate breakfast together with Pat. We had bread, with my homemade sandwich spread of chicken, boiled eggs and bacon bits. :-)

Then for lunch, I went to Iligan Medical College to meet up with Pat. We ate at Hungry Juan, across the school. Since it was so hot during the day. I slept in the afternoon for about 2 hours. ;-D

And for dinner. Pat and I left the house at past 6pm (after watching a cartoon movie). We had dinner at Zoey's Cafe. :-)


Pat : "hmm.. unsay ako orderon?"

While waiting for our orders. Piktyoor2x sa. :-)

Pat with my camera. This is what happens, hehe...

Shrimp Pesto Linguine
I can't taste the pesto, hehe

Mustard Cream Dory
Pat said he can't taste the mustard, hehe

Ka-double date namo ni Pat
Pat's niece, AJ, and her younger sister bb J
Our instant kids, hehe

Strawberry Shortcake
The very last food to be finished. bb J took some time to finish it.
AJ said the cake is very dry. :-(

Kulit bb J. She spiced up the night. :-D

The love birds :-D

Thank you Lord for another year. Thank you for all the blessings.

Thank you Pat for the no-cook birthday for me. Love ya. :-)

Freedom at 39

2013-07-06T00:30:00.000+08:00

July 6, 2013. Is the day I am 39.

5 days earlier. July 1. I am officially resigned as a city government employee. Now I am free to do the things I love to do which I wanted to do for so long a time. :-)

I've been dreaming for this day to come.

I've always wished for it to happened.

And now, it is finally here!!!!!!!

For five days now, I still can't believe I am finally living it. I am finally starting to live my dream. I can't express how I feel. Even what I think. All I know is, this is it. :-D

You see, I have always wanted to have my own business. Ever since I was in 3rd year college. However, after I finished school, I got a job in the city government. And got stuck there for 17 years.
Though, I have to say, I don't regret working in the city government for the past 17 years.

First, it has financially helped my family. It has given me enough income to buy the things I want. When financial crisis hit my family in 2002-2003, I became the sole breadwinner. And with that I am forever grateful with my job at the city government.

Second, it has helped me to grow as a person. My years in the city government has me traveling and seeing things I only get to see in the movies and in books. I have my many firsts while I was with the city government. Like, my first plane ride during my first trip to Manila. Then, I was sent to Australia for 10 days. Then to Germany for 11 months, which also gave me the opportunity to visit other places in Europe like Paris, Luxemburg, Brussels, Zurich, Amsterdam, etc.

Third, I've made new friends with my coworkers and the other government employees in the city government as well as other agencies. The City Planning and Development Office has become my second home.

Fourth, while with the city government, I met the love of my life, Pat, in 2003. This probably is the most important of all, hehehe :-D

But as time passed, the reason for my being has again called on me. My passion for business and the things I love to do makes my heart ache as I go every morning to city hall. With Pat's and my family's blessing, I decided to end this chapter of my life and start anew.

Many have been shocked of my decision. They'd say, "sayang. sayang ang imong position. sayang ang imong sweldo." I just smile. The money I earn every month at city hall could be considered a loss when I resigned.

But then.

There are things money can't buy.

So now, I am enjoying my 6th day of Freedom.

And as the 6th day of July is my birthday.

At 39, I finally have freedom.

Freedom at 39 :-D

Just Tell Me You Love Me

2013-02-13T14:55:00.000+08:00

Just tell me you love me
Whisper words I so long to hear
Let this time not be borrowed
Let it be ours to share.....

Sounds familiar?

Yep. It's the song by John Ford Coley. He is one of the singers of the musical duo England Dan and John Ford Coley.

I love their songs. I bought one of their Greatest Hits cassette tapes when I was in college. Played it every weekend and eventually memorized all the songs in the collection as well as the order of the songs, hehehe...

Why am I telling this?

Well, last February 8, 2013.... Pat and I

WATCHED HIM PERFORM LIVE!!!!

Yes! You read it right. I have always dreamed of watching Air Supply live in concert but I never thought I'd get to also see my other favorite, John Ford Coley, live in concert.

It was really such a surprise and such an impromptu decision for Pat and I.

February 8 was a Friday and Pat and I were both in our respective offices. During lunchtime, I overheard my office mates talking and one of them about leaving for Cagayan de Oro after lunch because of a concert. They said, David Pomeranz will be having a show at 8pm. I told myself, "ah, too bad, I only knew about it now. I would have also wanted to go. But then it's already late for me." Then they said that David will also do a show on February 16, together with Kuh Ledesma in Tubod, Lanao del Norte. Hmmm... I said, that would be better. I have time to prepare.

After eating my lunch, I went to the computer to check on the information about the show. And sure enough, I found the poster for David Pomeranz's concert in Tubod. I texted Pat about it. And we kind of made some tentative plans.

BUT.

As I was browsing through the internet. I can't get my mind off David's concert in Cagayan de Oro. So, I searched for a poster. Then I saw one.

And what I saw in front of me literally froze me for a few seconds.

This is what appeared in my computer screen :

I couldn't explain what I felt then. I actually said (almost screaming) "John Ford Coley!!!" If I was at home, I would have probably jumped up and down with excitement. I was like a child given a toy she so long to have. My heart was beating fast. My mind got dizzy on what to do and what to say.

Then I texted Pat with trembling hands, hehehe... It was 1:45 in the afternoon. Made few text exchanges with Pat. Pat called. I called. We decided.

The last call I got from Pat was around 2:30pm. He was at home asking me "how many t-shirts, which shorts, how many undies, what else are needed to bring?" He was already packing an overnight bag for the both of us! :-D

Then he picked me up at the office before 4pm. We first met a friend to give her her refrigerator magnet order. And at exactly 5pm we were on our way to Cagayan de Oro. And I couldn't believe how I felt. I can't believe we actually did what we just did. It was really my first to have that kind of impromptu decision. And it felt great! :-)

Pat and me. All smiles. :-D
A photo opp during the concert. hehe..

Tomorrow is February 14. Valentine's Day. But the concert has become the Valentine Date for Pat and I. It couldn't be any better. :-)

Below is one of the videos I recorded during the concert. The song "Just Tell Me You Love Me".

Did you hear me singing along? Yep. That was me, singing (off tune, hehehe). Well, I can't help it. I am watching John Ford Coley's concert and I really had to sing along. :-D

Since England Dan already passed away in 2009, John gave a tribute to him by singing "Love is the Answer". I also recorded it in video. :-)

And then again, I sang along. :-D This time, I think my voice is louder than John Ford's and more out of tune. hehehe...

Inspired by Bo Sanchez's Maids

2013-02-12T22:19:00.000+08:00

Even before I got married, I have always wanted to invest in the stock market for me to have a passive income for future use.   But never got the chance to do so because I was afraid.

I was afraid because I don't know a thing about the stock market.   "Makalibog ang numbers sa stock market." (The numbers in the stock market are confusing.)

And the stories I hear about the stock market, from those who have tried investing in made me doubtful to invest in the stock market.   "Daghan daw na akansi sa stock market tungod sa pag naog sa price sa stocks." (There are many who lost in the stock market because the price of the stocks went down.)

Until in 2010. When, one of the newsletters (or Soulfood letters) of Bo Sanchez talked about his book, "My Maids Invest in the Stock Market... and Why You Should, Too".

In the book, Bo Sanchez shared the story of how and why his maids invested in the stock market. How they managed to set aside a portion of their salary so they can have something to look forward to in the future.

And I was like... Jealous. Here are the maids of Bo Sanchez, earning just enough for themselves and their family in the provinces, yet were able to save to be able to invest in the stock market. And here I am, earning a bit more than they. I get bonuses every year, increases in the salary almost every year. And yet I've got nothing to show for my future. :-(

It was like LIGHTNING STRUCK ME!

After reading the book twice, I decided (with my husband's approval, of course, hehe) the next extra money that comes our way, I will invest it in the stock market. And sure enough, in December of 2010, we had an extra bonus. And I invested it all in the stock market. Then I saved every month and buy shares whenever the money is enough to buy the minimum allowed. And if I again receive an extra money, I add it to the investment. ;-)

And now, more than 2 years later, my investment have already grown more than 50%.

Being a member of the Truly Rich Club has been a big help to me in my investment in the stock market. The Club, through Bo Sanchez and his mentors, has guided me on how to invest and which company to invest to.

Would you like to also have something to look forward to in the future? Join Bo Sanchez's Truly Rich Club and start investing for your future through the stock market.

By the way, I am already a member of Bo Sanchez's Truly Rich Club before I invested in the stock market. :-)

The book, "My Maid Invest in the Stock Market, and Why You Should, Too", can be accessed for free when you visit the Truly Rich Club website. So visit the site now and start reading the book and be inspired.

God bless us all. :-)

Air Supply Live in Cagayan de Oro City

2013-01-05T19:54:00.000+08:00

Finally!

After so many years of wanting and getting denied, I have come to see them perform live! Yessss!

I have been a fan of Air Supply since I was in high school. Bought my first ever cassette tape when I was in third year. Air Supply Greatest Hits Vol. 2.

It was 1995. I was in fourth year college when I heard that Air Supply was going to do a concert in Cagayan de Oro. I got excited. I asked for my father's permission to go. Unfortunately, he didn't allow. I was too young. I am alone. It broke my heart knowing that the Air Supply concert is just 2 hours away from Iligan. So near, yet so far. :-(

And 3 more attempts to watch the concert of Air Supply (in Cagayan de Oro and in Cebu City). All failed.

Until last November 30, 2012.

On one of the big screens in the stage
while the show has not yet started.
Photo taken by Pat. :-)

I learned of their concert from my office mate on the first week of November. I immediately checked the internet of any info. And surely. There it was. I texted Pat of the upcoming event. He ask me if we would see the show. I told him, "yes, if you would allow." And of course, he said yes! hehehe..

I was so happy! Finally, a dream come true for me. I then started looking for funds to pay for the expenses that will be incurred - tickets, bus fare, accommodation in Cagayan, meals - good for 3 persons. Pat wants AJ, his niece who is studying in Cagayan, to come along with us. :-)

We had our dinner first in one of the restaurants at Limketkai. I forgot the name of the restaurant but it serves native foods, hehehe...

AJ and me, with the 3 tickets to the concert.
It was a good thing I was able to have a souvenir of the tickets.
The staff in-charge took the tickets from us and never returned one part.
We don't know why.

After dinner, we directly went to the Atrium where the concert will be held.
The line is already long and it was still before 7pm.
They started to let us in at 7pm.

Photo opps with Pat, before the show started.

The Air Supply in Concert!

Yehheey! I can't describe what I felt watching Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock in the flesh. Singing in front of me. I think I got goosebumps. And star strucked? :-D

Finally, my souvenir photo during the concert. hehehe
I think Pat took this picture during the second to the last song.
Whew, it was a close one.

Another photo opps with Pat right after the show. :-)

It's a bit sad that I was not able to really have a photo with Graham and Russell together. But. Looking at the pictures, you can see happiness painted all over my face. See the BIG SMILE? hehehe... It was double happiness for me - a dream come true watching the concert of Air Supply plus, I was watching it with Pat, the love of my life, who happens to also like their songs. He was singing to me, "'coz you're every woman in the world to me. You're my fantasy, you're my reality." when Air Supply sang the song. Hehehehe... :-D

Thanks to Pat and AJ for the company. :-)

Wild West Mine Train

2012-12-31T15:04:00.001+08:00

I have ridden a roller coaster thrice.

Though it is not really big. But surely, enough to get my adrenaline rushing. :D

The Space Shuttle in Enchanted Kingdom
Image Source : http://www.theviewingdeck.com/
2011/04/rollercoasters.htm

The first was in 2004 in Enchanted Kingdom, Manila. I rode it with Rene Tan, Pat's best friend. We just had our dinner (pizza) when we passed by the Space Shuttle. And Rene and I decided to try it. Pat found an excuse not to ride - his stomach is very full, hehehe... Unfortunately though, I don't have a picture of it. And Pat forgot to take a picture of me because he was watching me screaming my lungs out from the moment the coaster started until it stopped. He said I look so funny. And I also had my eyes closed the whole time, hehehee... The only time I opened my eyes was in one part when we slowed down and I could feel like my spirit is being sucked out of my body. I thought I am going to faint. And I wondered what our position could be so I decided to look. To my surprise, when I opened my eyes, I was staring into the sky. We were like lying down facing the black starry sky and we were on the peak of the coaster trail. A few seconds later I again closed my eyes as the coaster rolled back downwards.

My second coaster ride was in Disneyland, Hongkong. It was an indoor roller coaster. And this time I rode it with Pat. And this time I made sure I would not close my eyes. And yes! I was able to open my eyes the whole time. And so I was able to see - the dark. hehehe... with only some lights flashing.

The only photo we have at the Space Mountain.
A picture printed by the operators of the coaster ride which cost us 100 Hongkong dollars. (I think this was the most expensive item we bought in Hongkong.) :D
Again, I am shouting at the top of my lungs, hehehe....

The third coaster ride I had was in Ocean Park. Pat was not with me again this time. He had to babysit the son of his niece. The boy is only 5 years and could not yet be allowed to ride the coaster. His parents rode with me, hehehe :-)

Jaze, the son of Pat's niece Isn't he cute? :-)

There's me in blue sleeveless blouse. :-)

Holding on tight to the handle bar :-)
I would have really wanted to also raise my hands like what the other riders are doing. But didn't do it because the seat belt was a bit loose for me. I was afraid I fall off if don't hold on to the bar. hehehe...

Shouting at the top of my lungs!

I think this is the part where the ride is almost over, yet I am still shouting.hahaha... :D

Pat, not being able to ride with me, was a blessing in disguise. He was able to capture my greatest coaster ride ever, hehehe... "Thanks for the photos Pat. Love you."

As I was falling in line with Pat's nieces to get my turn on the ride, I saw the different effects of the coaster on the riders. Some looked so pale. Others almost fainted. Others can't seemed to get out of the seat anymore. Some vomited. As I watched them, and as my turn neared, I felt like backing out. I don't know what could happen to me up there. But the thrill, the adventure and the once in a lifetime experience overpowered my doubts. I said to myself, it's now or never. hehehe... So, I pushed through with it but made a silent prayer to God to help me get through this one ride and I will not anymore ride coasters. Whew.

Notice the look on my face on all the photos? Shouting. Yap. I was shouting the whole time. It was not because I am scared. It was actually to get rid of the tension in my body. To avoid the vomiting and dizzying episode after the ride.

So, what happened to me after all the rolling and shouting?

Tada! End of the ride. All smiles now!!! :D

This photo was taken before we entered Ocean Park.

The coaster ride behind me is the Wild West Mine Train I just rode on. I was thinking if I would be able to take a ride with it. But. I never thought my thoughts could become a reality. Thanks to Pat's nieces who also wanted to try it. So, I had company and was able to have the chance of a lifetime. :-)

The Love I Found In You

2012-11-20T21:40:00.001+08:00

Wow.

It has been more than a month since I wrote a post here. The excitement for my trip to Cambodia-Thailand with Pat and his family has kind of "disabled" me to add other posts for October. I told myself not to worry 'coz when I get back from the trip, I sure will have so much to write about. :-)

October 31 around 5pm. Pat and I were back in Iligan. Got busy with All Saints Day and All Souls Day. Got busy unpacking. Returned to work. Got some ideas on topics to blog about. But somehow. Just kinda got tired from the trip. So, nothing's working on my mind to be able to write even just one post. Tsk tsk tsk.

Until now.

However, tonight, I am not yet going to blog about "the trip". I am now listening to my music collection in the computer hard drive while uploading (finally, had the energy and the will to upload photos from the trip) some photos in Facebook. And a song from Jim Brickman caught my attention and thought I 'd just make a post of its lyrics and the music. And thought I'd post it in my blog right now while I am here in front of my computer, hehe... :-)

The song reminded me of Pat. The love we share. And most specially the love he gives me for more than 8 years now. :-D

Here's the lyrics to The Love I Found In You


With Pat at Le Fenix Hotel in Bangkok

You are the air I need to breathe
the river of life inside of me
you are the half that made me whole
you are the anchor of my soul

and you are strong when I am weak
you are the words when I can't speak
you never fail to see me through
that's the love I found in you

you are my shelter from the storm
you are the road that leads me home
and baby with you here face to face
Oh I know I've found my place

and you are strong when I am weak
you are the words when I can't speak
you never fail to see me through
that's the love I found in you

and once in every life
you find the one that's right
and when you say forever it's true
That's the love I found in you

You are strong when I am weak
you are the words when I can't speak
you never fail to see me through
That's the love I found in you

That's the love, love I found in you.

Dear Pat my gen,

When we first became friends in 2003, I never thought I'd be spending the next years of my life with you.

From the start until now, you see me through. You always seemed to finish my sentences. You know what I want. You know what I need. You, most of the time, read my mind. Mura kag si Superman, hehehe...

You've made me become a better me. You always find ways to make my dreams come true. And I am happy that I am sharing my dreams with you. I won't spend it any other way. If I am to live my life again, I still would want to live it with you.

We seemed like soul mates, if there's such a thing, hehehe.... :-)

That's the love Pat my gen, I found in you (when you found me!).

Thank you so much. I love you! Muaaahhh!

Yours always,

Binky - your baks :-)

And here's the music :

Mango Float

2012-10-18T22:58:00.000+08:00

Finally! After making mango float for several times, I have already taken a photo of it, hehehe...

In less than a week, I made two sets of mango float. The first was for Ate Amy, Ate Luz and her family which I made last Sunday, October 14, 2012. And the second was just tonight. I made for BobNewYork who arrived from New York City last Tuesday, October 16, 2012 to again visit Iligan. I made him a promise that the next time he comes to Iligan I will make a mango float for him. And good thing he arrived before Pat and I will leave for Manila.


Mango Float ala Revilla :-) Pat's favorite. But, of course, he likes the one I make the most. :-D

Will be meeting Bob with the other IBS members tomorrow, October 19, 2012 at Jacko's Kan-anan.

Picture Perfect : Through A Lens, Clearly

2012-09-22T14:51:00.002+08:00

As a frustrated (professional) photographer, I have dreamed of having a photo taken by me published in a magazine. This was included in the list of my "Things To Do Before I Die" which I wrote in 1998 and in 2001, hehehe...

This month, exactly on September 11, 2012. I had this dream accomplished! Sort of, hehehe...

Some years ago, I chanced upon a section of the Manila Bulletin. Picture Perfect. Where they feature photographers as well as photos by professionals and amateurs/hobbyists send by the readers. I have collected some issues as I thought of one day seeing my pictures on it. hehehe... Then years, passed. I forgot about it.

Last year, I again got the yearning to see one of my pictures in Manila Bulletin's Picture Perfect. So, in October 2011, I made an inquiry to Ronald Jayme if a picture taken from a point-and-shoot camera is fine as an entry. He then replied "Point and shoot is ok for as as long as you have a good capture, wala sa camera na." I got so excited. I thought of looking into my photos and check on which ones to send. Then again, I forgot about it. Actually, fear has let me forget about it. hehehe.. I was then too scared to even send a picture.

But in August. August 21, 2012, I finally got the guts to send not just one but three photos as my entry to Manila Bulletin's Picture Perfect. :-)

My first picture : Angry Sky
Taken in November 2010 at Zamboanga City

Second picture : Pensive Badjao Boy
Taken in November 2010 in Zamboanga City

Third picture : Sunset Walk
Taken in October 2011 during the Worldwide Photowalk in Iligan City

After sending my entries, I checked my emails everyday for 1 week for any reply from Picture Perfect. But didn't get any. I kind of got disappointed and thought maybe my entries where not good enough.

But on the 10th day, August 31, 2012. I unexpectedly got an email from Rafael Paredes. I got a bit excited when I saw the subject of the email as "Picture Perfect". :-)

When I opened the email this is what he wrote :

Hi Revilla.

The editor passed on your email to my column, Through A Lens, Clearly. Can you share if you are still a student or already employed? Also, how long have you been enjoying photography?

I will wait for your response.

best regards,

Raffy Paredes

I have to read it over and over again. I don't know what to do. I was like, does this mean my entry was accepted? Even from the email, I still didn't know. I probably got over excited, hehehe...I forwarded the email to Pat and asked him his comment. He just told me to send a reply. So, I replied and gave some information about me.

Then again, I waited for another email from Raffy Paredes. But got none for a few days.

And on September 6, 2012, I received one of the greatest news ever. An email again, from Raffy Paredes. And this is what it said :

I was reading it in the office. And I couldn't contain myself. I wanted to shout and jump for joy. But I didn't. I just sat there. Stared at my computer screen and read the email over and over again. With my head screaming and my heart beating fast. Then by coincidence, Pat called me. I planned on surprising him of the good news. However, due to over excitement, I told him. hehehe... But then telling him was good as it also got the tension out of my body. hehe.. Pat and I then wondered which photo was selected.

Since then, I couldn't wait for September 11 to arrive.

September 11, 2012. At 10:00am I went to the News Stand to buy the Manila Bulletin issue. But couldn't find one. They said it has not yet arrived. Maybe at around 11:30am. I went back to the office and asked my officemate to buy 2 copies for me before he returns to the office after lunch.

At 12:30 pm, Pat called me. And announced that he has already got a newspaper and seen my entry! Waaaaaaaaahhhhhh! Nauna siya nako! (He saw it first!). He then told me which photo was published and read to me the write-up. :-)

At around 1:30 in the afternoon, I finally got hold of the copy of Manila Bulletin. And this is what I saw :

The Pensive Badjao Boy was featured! Yeheyyyy!

I was so happy! I immediately scanned the page and made the scanned copy my computer's wallpaper background. :-D

Pat suggested that I reserve a copy of the page and have it framed. :-)

I know that my dream is to have a picture taken by me published in a magazine. This is a newspaper. But I don't mind. For me, a published photo is a published photo. And besides, Manila Bulletin is a nationwide newspaper. And having accomplished this made me realized that :

1. Conquering one's fear and taking action is the key factor in achieving your dream. If I didn't submit an entry. I will never know. Ever.
2. Since one of my entries was featured, then now I know I have some talent in photography which I will have to further develop. :-)
3. This will not be my first and last entry to Picture Perfect. I definitely will send another. Next goal is : Photo of the Week. :-D

4. I will then submit an entry to a magazine. Starting with a national magazine. Pat suggested the Mabuhay magazine. :-)

Well, that's it for now.

Another accomplishment for my 38th year here on Earth! :-)

Play The Piano, Meet the Alaska Players

2012-09-10T23:42:00.000+08:00

In the "Things To Do Before I Die" post I listed the things that I would want to do before I die which were written in 1998, 2001 and 2003.

Today, I am going to identify 4 things that I have already done since 1998.

http://www.cooperpiano.com/piano-player-blog/?Tag=piano%20lessons

1. Learn to play the piano and own one.   In November of 1998, I enrolled in Rosas Music Center to finally learn how to play the piano. I would go to the music center once a week to learn Book 1.

When I was in Book 2, my teacher, Ma'am Rose, offered me a brand new Yamaha organ to purchase and be paid in installment so I can practice at home. It was an offer she gave only to me, hehehe... So, I took it.

She was amazed at how good I am in memorizing the keys because after a few classes, I can already play a piece without looking at the keys. I was already just looking at the notes. :-)

However, I was already in the Book 3, in which after completing it, I'd be able to join the recital, when I decided to quit. I didn't want to. But I have to. My family had a financial crisis and I became an instant breadwinner.   I have to sold my organ back to Rosas Music Center.

Until now though, I still have the urge to really learn to play the piano. And be able to attend a recital. And play in front of a big crowd. :-)

So, I could say, this dream has yet partially came true, hehehe.

2. Learn to play the guitar and own one. Got to own a guitar while I was studying to play the piano. but unfortunately didn't get to learn to really play it. Though I did some self-study a few times using the chords in the Song Hits magazine. I tried to practice and play completely 1 song. I just chose a song that have simple chords, hehehe... But then that's it.

3. Ride the rollercoaster (big one).   I have ridden a roller coaster thrice. So, I will be making a separate post for this. :-D

4. Meet the Alaska players.   I am not really fond of basketball. But my father is. Very. Both NBA and PBA. So, I grew up watching some games. On TV. And live in person. My father used to be a coach in our place. :-) I remember a story my mother told me when I got to see a basketball game for the first. My father was a player in the company then. My mother said that after watching the game for a minute, I told her that they should be given a ball each so they will not anymore fight over for one. :-D You could say, this is my first impression of the basketball game, hehehe.

Johnny "The Flying A" Abarrientos
http://sydrified.blogspot.com/2010/
10/will-flying-migrate-to-alaska_14.html

I had the time of my life with PBA games in 1996. It was the year that the Alaska Team made a grand slam - winning the 3 conferences for the year. Everybody at home seemed to be glued to the tube with every game of Alaska. I had no choice then but to also watch the game as they (and I) get excited, shouted, screamed. And each of us also had our favorite players. Mine was Johnny Abarrientos. I even took a photo of him, on TV, hehehe... He was sort of then my crush in PBA. :-)

As I am not really fond of basketball, I don't anymore remember why I wrote "Meet the Alaska players" as one of my things to do. Probably because it was with them that for some moments I got excited to watch a PBA game. And I think it was in October 1998 when I was able to see some of the Alaska players in person. My officemates and I were attending a training in Manila then. And on a weekend, we decided to watch a PBA game. When we arrived, I got excited to learn that it was the Alaska playing. Though I was not anymore interested in watching them play. I just watched them. And Johnny was there too. I was not able to really talk to them but I was seated just a few seats above their bench. And even though I was not anymore as excited as before, I regretted not having taken a photo of them playing in the court. And a photo of me with them. When I got back in the hotel, I realized I should have also let them sign the new baseball cap I just bought from Hard Rock Cafe. I don't know why I forgot about it and regretted having not done so. Maybe deep inside I was still really excited to finally see them in person -the very people I cheered on on TV. And I was not able to think of the next thing to do. Or the appropriate thing to do. And it's already been 14 years since and I have not again met any of them.

So, this is it for now. I'll be revealing more of the things that I have done from the list in my future posts. :-)

A Dream Come True!

2012-08-14T05:48:00.002+08:00

It's 5:00 in the morning. I have been awake since 4 am and I can't seemed to go back to sleep anymore. So many things are on my mind.

So I thought, as I am already wide awake, might as well make use of the time and energy. So here I am, writing a post. As early as 5 o'clock in the morning. For the first time since I started blogging. hehehe....

This post is about something that got me excited for about two weeks now.

August 2. Barely a month after my 38th birthday, I got a surprise.

On August 2, Pat attended a meeting with the Department of Tourism in Cagayan de Oro City. He arrived home around 11pm. We were about to sleep. Lights were out. When suddenly, he remembered something that he was supposed to show me. He took something from his bag. And handed it to me. He said, "check that out".

So, I looked at it. It was the new brochure of the Northern Mindanao Department of Tourism. Pat said he was given an advance copy of the brochure. Because of something special. :-)

I browsed it. I was looking for Iligan City. And was happy to see my city included in the brochure.
Then Pat ask if I see something familiar. I have to look at it about 2 times before I realized what he was talking about.

And when I saw it, my reaction was : "Haaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh!".

I got goosebumps. Really.

Then I got excited. Then I was like staring at it what feels like an hour (it's only really a minute, hehehe). I couldn't believe what I am looking at. I saw myself staring back at me!

It's like MY DREAM came true! Well, at least one of my frustrations. hehehe...

I am a self-confessed frustrated model. I wrote one about it in my May 2011 post. Check out my post My Modeling Stint in Germany.

This time. It is a modeling stint in Iligan City. :-)

To give you an idea, below is a scanned copy of the portion of the brochure where my picture can be seen.

Can you recognize me? hehehe

This picture was taken by Master George Tapan. I cannot anymore remember when though. I think it's in 2008. He was in Mindanao to take pictures that he wants to use for his proposed project. And Iligan City was included in it. I just actually tagged along with Pat. I just wanted to see what happens during an actual photoshoot. But at some point, they lacked some models. As I was already there, they decided to use me. Hehehe...

The project didn't pushthrough though. ;-(

So, it was really such a surprise for me to see myself staring back at me in the brochure. Up to now, I still cannot contain myself. It sure is a dream come true. ;-D

Now Open for Business :-D

2012-08-13T10:00:00.000+08:00

I am supposed to write blogpost about the previous travels but I got busy the past few weeks. It has been almost a month now since I last posted.

Have finally started my business! Just, one of my businesses, actually. Hehehe. Though just a small step yet. I've always wanted to get into the food business yet I never got the guts to start one.

But.

Last month, my friend, Jedy, who is into the food business, accepted my proposal for a consignment. I'd prepare the food (snacks and desserts) and she sells them. Since I still cannot have my own store, I want to try the consignment first. And on Wednesday, July 25, Jedy asked if I could make a mango float for 30 persons which she will use the following day for an event. Since it was such a short notice for me, I told her I'll try and text her if am able to make the mango floats.

However, since it was my first time to prepare the mango float in individual packs (I usually prepare them in big containers, for family consumption), I miscalculated the ingredients. So, I was not able to make 30 packs. So, I texted Jedy I could not deliver her order.

The following day, since the individually packed mango float is already there, I thought of doing an introductory selling of my mango float. Not much profit just so I'd get to introduce my mango float business. :-) I brought some to my office to sell it to my office mates. I was very happy to learn that they like my mango float! My husband also brought a few pieces to his office. And his office mates also like the mango float!

Last Friday, August 10, I prepared another set of mango float. However, Jedy's stall at night market will not be open on Saturday. Pat thought of his friend Langging who owns a barbeque eatery near the public plaza. He called her to arrange for a consignment. And luckily, she agreed. Yes!

Hmmm... this could be a sign that I am on the right track. :-)

So, why mango float?

Well, mango float have been the favorite dessert I like to prepare at home. Plus, I have always been frustrated with the mango float sold in restaurants/ cafes here in Iligan. It is so commercialized, most of what you see and taste is the Graham crackers.

Unfortunately, though, I forgot to take a photo of the mango float I prepared. Next weekend, I will be preparing another set. So, I'd make sure I will already have a photo of my mango float, hehehe...

A Jollibee Birthday

2012-07-19T23:44:00.000+08:00

Last July 6, 2012 was my birthday. I am now 38 years old. So, how did I spend my special day?

For this year, I planned on going to the Home for Aged to celebrate my birthday there with the elderly. There are about 10 of them. Lunch was what I had in mind. I'd bring with me food that surely they've longed to eat. I already set aside some money for it. Of course, Pat will be with me. I also thought I'd pass the dinner at my parents' house this time. Instead, I'd let them join me have lunch at the Home for the Aged. That was my plan. :-)

But on June 23, 2012, my father had a stroke and was admitted to the hospital. The money I have set aside for my birthday was spent for my father's recovery.

On a lighter note, I had a first for my birthday this year.

Pat and I had breakfast at Jollibee! hehehe... It was my very first birthday that I ate out for breakfast.

So, why did we eat out?

It was not really a planned romantic eat out. We just woke up late and I have no time to cook for breakfast. Hehehe.... Pat is going to the office and I will be going to Maria Cristina Hotel to attend the last day of a 3-day workshop. :-)

And it's a good thing I remembered to take a photo of us just before we left Jollibee. I was able to have a souvenir of my very first birthday breakfast. :-)

Then at past 5pm Pat and I met at Gaisano Mall to buy some stuff for my father and then went to 9r's to buy our dinner. We spent our dinner with my family in Bayug so I could visit and check on my father's progress. I didn't get any gifts on my birthday but what God gave me was the best gift I could have ever wanted on that day. On my birthday, my father was already able to walk a few steps, 13 days after he had a stroke. And last Saturday, July 14, he was already walking normally. No more wheelchair moments. Hehehe... Thank you so much Lord. :-)

My plan on treating the elderly at the Home for the Aged still holds. I will start saving from my salary next month so I could have that birthday lunch at the Home for the Aged in September. :-D

Things To Do Before I Die

2012-07-04T22:20:00.000+08:00

I'll be turning 38 this coming Friday. 38. Wow. That's already a lot of years. On my 38th year I'd like to make an inventory of what have I done with my life. But first, I'd like to post the things that I want to do before I die, which I have 2 sets of, hehehe... plus a list of my dreams.

(Image Source: http://www.wildaboutmovies.com/movies/BucketListMovie-BucketListTrailer-RobReiner-JackNicholson-MorganFreeman.php)

Today, I'd like to write the 2 lists I have made. My first ever list of Things To Do Before I Die (or my Bucket List) was written on August 8, 1998 at 6:10pm. Wondered how I still remember the time and date? Well, I wrote it on a 1996 planner which my father didn't use so he gave it to me. And I still have it after, like, 16 years? More than 16 years already... hehehe...It's a good thing I took it from my parent's house in Bayug last year and brought it here in Celdran, so it was spared from the TS Sendong flooding. :-)

So, my 1998 Bucket List had the following to-do things :

1. Learn to play the piano and own one
2. Learn to play the guitar and own one
3. Learn to roller skates and be able to do ice skating
4. Ride the rollercoaster (big one)
5. Be able to paint at least one painting in a canvass
6. Own an SLR camera and handycam and publish at least one picture
7. Manage my own (dream) business
8. Learn how to swim
9. Audition/ apply in a recording company and know if I have a talent in singing
10. Employ the less fortunate
11. Visit at least one castle in Europe
12. Visit Egypt and see pyramid
13. Go to Manila and visit significant places
14. Go to Vatican City
15. Be able to travel alone outside Iligan
16. Marry the right man at the right time and have a family to love and care for
17. Meet the Alaska players
18. Meet Lea Salonga
19. Visit Paris
20. Visit Disneyland
21. Be able to horseback ride
22. Do skiing, jet skiing
23. Ride a helicopter
24. Ride a plane
25. Go to a cruise with the man I love
26. Play tennis
27. Own a lot with vegetable garden and fruit trees
28. Own a house with a swing

And my second list I wrote on July 22, 2001 (I was not able to write the time though, hehehe)

1. Own an SLR camera
2. Own a videocam
3. Publish at least one picture in a well-known magazine
4. Complete tour of Disneyland, Florida,USA
5. Ride a rollercoaster
6. Learn how to rollerblades and ice skates
7. Sing in an audience without mistake
8. Go to Egypt and see the pyramid
9. Go to Vatican City
10. Own a boarding house
11. Have a family with the right man
12. Go on a cruise with the man I love, my husband
13. Go on a horseback riding
14. Go on a go-cart racing
15. See and touch a dolphin or whale
16. Finish one cross-stitch
17. Ride and/ or drive a convertible sports car
18. Volunteer in a nursing home
19. Travel alone outside Iligan
20. Photograph a sunset
21. Learn to scuba dive
22. Watch a concert in Cebu
23. Have a child of my own
24. Watch the sunrise/ sunset with the man I love
25. Own a mountain bike
26. Own a 4-door pick-up truck
27. Have a house with a swing
28. Ride on a helicopter
29. Play tennis
30. See one broadway/ musical stage show
31. Go on a rafting
32. Learn to ski
33. Ride on a jet ski

And on December 27, 2001, I added one more thing that I'd like to do,

34. Enroll in a dance class. :-)

So, from these lists, which do you think have I done already?

Have I made come true as many things I want to do in the past 14 years?

Hmmm... I am going to answer that in another post. hehehe..

For my big dreams, based on my list, in 2001 I have wanted :

1. to own a restaurant that serves all kinds of dishes with chicken on it, hehehe... why chicken? I cannot anymore remember. :-)
2. to make souvenir items for Iligan City.
3. to own a boarding house and cafeteria.

In 2003, I added these :

4. To own an orphanage and home for the aged
5. To own internet cafe
6. To make handmade papers and its other products

Do these dreams of mine 11 and 9 years ago still hold true today? That, will be revealed in yet another post. hehehe :-D

A STROKE of Luck

2012-06-27T22:52:00.001+08:00

Friday. June 22, 2012. 11:00 am. My father was rushed to Mercy Hospital. He cannot move his left arm and leg. Upon hearing the news, I immediately went to the hospital from the office. When I arrived in the emergency room, my father looked ok and he was talking normally. But he cannot still move the left part of his body and he said there is still numbness in his left arm, leg and face. The doctor recommended a CT scan to check if his brain was not affected.

This is the very first time that something like this happened to my father. And it is also his first time, in such a long time as far as he can remember (probably more than 30 years), to be admitted to the hospital.

We didn't know what my father's condition was until Saturday morning the following day when the doctor visited him. The doctor said most of his test results were Ok except for the CT scan and his cholesterol level. His bad cholesterol is a bit higher than the normal value. And his CT scan displayed a blood clot in his brain. The good news is, the blood clot was minimal so it can be treated with medications and no need for surgery. Also, the bad cholesterol level can be reduced to normal by medication. The doctor's only condition is that my father's blood pressure level should not anymore rise above normal. Because of the recent blood clot, his blood pressure level must remain normal at all times to avoid the occurrence of another stroke.

Today. June 27, 2012. 2:00pm. My father was already discharged from the hospital. He still has this tingling sensation in the left side of his body but he can already move his left arm and leg. He can already sit down on his own.   When we were about to leave the hospital, my father was able to get inside the passenger vehicle from the wheelchair on his own. As well as when we arrived home, he got off the vehicle and into the wheelchair on his own again. We were there though watching him and being ready to catch him in case he would fall down. His movements are still slow and shaky.

I was really amazed at my father's will to get well as soon as he could. Right after we wheeled him to his room last Friday, he already started teaching his left hand to move, starting with his fingers. In just about 3 hours, he could already move his entire hand. By Sunday, he could already touch his nose, with no fail. This morning, he could already drink from a glass using his left hand. :-)

If only the physical therapist doctor visited him on Monday afternoon, he could have gone home yesterday, Tuesday. But the doctor was able to visit him only yesterday, so he was discharged just today. And what we found to be a bit funny was, the physical therapist doctor's advice as to what my father should do at home for him to recover fast, he was already doing since Friday (except for the sitting and standing as the other doctor won't let him yet). Hence, his very fast recovery.   Just this afternoon, I asked him if he could already walk normally in two weeks. And guess what his answer is? He told me in a matter-of-fact way, "Less than two weeks". I smiled. That's the spirit. :-D

With this new experience in my life, I have a few things to be thankful for.

1. That, on the event last Friday, my sister decided not to go to the city center in the morning. So, she and his boyfriend was at home when my father had the stroke. If ever both of them were not around, I don't know how my mother could manage the situation. She could not call for help as my father wouldn't let her leave his side and he is too heavy for her to carry outside the house. They would both definitely be helpless.

2. That the lavatory in the bathroom was still there. For over a year already, I have been telling my mother to remove the damaged lavatory since it is already a bit unserviceable and is taking up space in the bathroom.   My father was taking a bath when the stroke happened. When he sensed dizziness he leaned his hand on the wall but it slipped down into the lavatory. When his hand gripped the lavatory which prevented him from falling down he then sat on the toilet bowl and that's when he realized he could no longer feel the lavatory he was holding. And he felt numbness all over his left body.

3. That the emergency room of the Mercy Hospital was not busy. My father was immediately taken cared of when he arrived at the emergency room.

4. That our family already have new men members. The presence of my two sisters' boyfriends and my husband, Pat, was really a great help.

These are what I would call our four (4) STROKEs of Luck. Though actually, it was meant to be. hehehe :-D

And of course, I thank God for all his blessings as well as for the get-well-soon prayers said by friends and relatives.

"There’s no quicker way for you to appreciate your life than when you come face to face with death. When you realize how thin the line that separates you from death, you will put more value on the things that matter — your family, your life purpose, your relationship to God."
-Bo Sanchez's God Whispers