scribbles on pebbles by miss m.q.

You still out there?

2010-01-18T06:20:00.000-08:00

Anybody?

I miss blogging.

I'll have the time one of these days.

Hope ya stick around....

Beauty and Wellness at its Best

2009-11-27T22:10:00.000-08:00

I can smell the fruitcake…
I can feel the cool wind at night…
I can hear Christmas songs in the airwaves… I can see the bright colorful dancing Christmas lights on the streets and in the houses.
Christmas holiday is just around the corner time for joyful reunions with love ones. Gatherings with old friends, I better be at my prettiest and with that I am thankful for my good friend’s free make-up and beauty lessons on the internet, Dra. Grace’s Online Beauty Clinic – The Doctor is VaIn. And since it’s going to be a long holiday again I am looking forward for a good massage at Terra Wellness Spa after all the adventures with family and friends.
Wishing hard I will win these! ;) If you want to join in this contest too and enjoy a Spa for 75 minutes you have a few more hours to join. For more details visit Doc Grace's website. :)

Dawn Realizations

2009-11-09T11:30:00.000-08:00

It's dawn here, had fallen asleep while watching tv with my work attire still on. I was so sleepy the whole afternoon must be the meds that i took. Anyways...here I am musing since sleep has not kick in.
Things that i came to realized...

* A controlling person will always say she's right and when she doesn't get what she wants she breaks you off.
* Some people will choose friends over family, others want to forget they got family.
* This is a constant line that I often here... when you got everything everybody likes you but when you're broke and stripped of everything suddenly they turn their backs on you. Still holds true.
* If you want to keep your marriage never ask advice from a single person or a divorcee. The former has no idea while the latter well, for very obvious reasons.
* True friends even when you don't see them everyday, even when they lived miles away, when you get the chance to talk they always know the right things to say.
* Even with the distance my marriage with my husband has its trials like any other marriage and somehow despite all odds, despite every negativity that we hear, we remain strong and faithful to our marriage.
* Long distance relationship is not for everybody...those who are weak and has very little faith will not endure.
* Some people when they need something from you they suddenly pop out from nowhere to ask you favors and the rest of the time they're nowhere to be found or at least pretend maybe you don't exist.
* I used to think that since love is strong financial issues will never have a room in a relationship. I was wrong I believe every relationship or marriage will be tested on that. With God's grace I am thankful that we have overcome that.
* Being married to Ron is a bittersweet experience and we're doing a good job at keeping our marriage whole.
* Lastly... you can choose who you can call a family one that embraces you even when you are not at your best...even when you've not made good decisions they will never say anything to make it more hurtful...even if that family is just one person.

Unspoken

2009-10-10T12:04:00.000-07:00

In one of my previous posts I wrote about things I would want to say to someone but just couldn't tell it to his/her face. I actually got that idea from Ms. Lea's multiply site which she also got from another blogger. There's no mention of names just the thoughts you would have desired to say. And so, I'm gonna do it again. :) Here goes...

*There's nothing wrong if you speak-up God gave you a mouth not just put some food in it. But to be an instrument to vocalize what's on your mind. It's like television it doesn't make sense if we see the action but there's no audio.

*What changed you so suddenly?

*Don't stop believing in your self, you are bound for greatness.

*So whose side are you really on? Or do you really just enjoy getting all the information.

*Don't use your sickness to take advantage of peoples kindness, don't use it either to manipulate others.

*Forgiveness is the sweetest revenge. It warms the heart and cools the sting.

*What you know may not be the only solution. Actually it's not.

*I admire you're patience, thank you for giving your understanding and support,

*Please don't think only of the benefit that you can get you must know that the world doesn't solely revolve around you.

*Please don't abuse her kindness...you better be good or you'll get sacked sooner than you thought.

*I may not see but God sees.

*I miss talking to you.

*Be real

*You gotta say it even if its hurtful. Sometimes you really do need to whack someone in the head.

*Freedom is not fought freedom is how you choose to live.

That's all for now. Gotta enjoy my Macchiato! Ahhh sweet life. ;)

Farewell Cory Aquino

2009-08-02T20:19:00.000-07:00

I guess I am the last person in Makati to know that the former president of the Philippines, Corazon C. Aquino died Saturday 3am of August 1, 2009. I was watching a show in GMA 7 last night when a flash report was shown with Jessica Sojo interviewing the youngest daughter of Tita Cory, Kris Aquino-Yap. I was shocked and I guess I was more affected than when I heard of the death of Michael Jackson. She has greater influenced I guess in my growing years. I was 10 yrs old when she became the president of the Philippines and with her as the highlight I have learned what Freedom meant and how powerful prayer is when people unite together to pray. I am really at a lost for words right now and I do feel a deep sadness for her death.

She was an inspiration as a wife, a mother, a leader and a Christian. Her love for Ninoy...pure & undying, her love for her children...unconditional, her love for her country and the Filipino people never stopped even when she no longer holds power, and she puts the Lord Jesus Christ and Mother Mary on the pinnacle of every success that she achieves. Prayer was her most powerful tool and I guess that what makes her loved by many. I admire her courage when in the midst of difficulty one should not forget to humble herself and kneel down before God. For not all problems can be comprehended and resolved by the human mind. She lived the life of humility and perpetual faithfulness in God and may we learn to walk through life with her ways.

I remember when I was in 5th grade we have this annual foundation day celebration at school and every level will perform a field demonstration. Ours was about the EDSA Revolution and we danced to the tune “Tie a Yellow Ribbon” which we won. Yellow is the signature color of Tita Cory which represents freedom, friendship and happiness. I guess in every person these are what we constantly struggle to attain in every stage in our life or in every new circumstance that we need to overcome. Freedom & Happiness. It is never really out of reach it rests within waiting to rouse at your call. So tie a yellow ribbon not just on an old oak tree but anywhere where the sunshine’s rays will fall and where Tita Cory can see the overflowing gratefulness of the Filipino people for her.

Farewell Tita Cory you will be missed.

Click for Live Streaming and Tribute page by GMA 7.

Precious and Few by Climax

2009-07-28T20:56:00.000-07:00

I often hear this song every morning on the radio. It's an old song but it kinda pull a heart-string. Just want to share with you guys. May you spent precious time with your loved ones all the time and hold it in your treasure box.

Wherever you are, Good Morning, Good Evening & Good Night!

725

2009-07-25T06:53:00.000-07:00

It’s a sunny day once again on a Saturday, woke up early even when I came home around 1am after watching Harry Potter 6 with my girlfriends; which by the way I just finished reading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows a few days ago. It’s a great book, really had me glued to my bed during the weekend. Today, storm seems to be taking the weekend off. I wish I could go on an out of town trip. I’ve been thinking for months on doing a road trip every weekend, alone. Just to explore cities I have never visited here in Luzon. I’ve been itching to push pins again on the map that’s been hanging on my wall frozen. Yes I am an adventurist I am most happy when I am out there exploring and experiencing life to the brim, I miss riding buses randomly. But I did that when I was in the comfort of my hometown down south in Mindanao. So if do pursue this bizarre weekend journey it would be a first. Scary maybe but if I will never do it I may wonder later on what it might have felt if I did what I dream of doing. Fear sometimes hinders as of the things that we want to do and when we concede defeat to fear we fall short on achieving what could have given our spirit a dose of high energy. I often visit Airline websites just to check if they have promo fares that will just cost me 2K or less roundtrip. Just the thought of staying overnight and having a quick tour in the city excites me. I know my digital cam which is my best ally and my idle Handy Video Cam will be elated to be of use finally.

I am quite aware of the risk on venturing to territories I have never been to. But isn’t that what exploring is about? A friend and I used to imagine having a joyride outside the boundaries of our hometown with our dream cars when we were still in college. I still haven’t own my dream car same with my friend but we did succeed in exploring places beyond the boundaries of our comfortable city and we even reached places outside the country. I remember the time when I was in Singapore I explored the city alone on the 2^nd day because my friend was too sick to tour around. It was funny and fun experience. I know I was ignorant with their MRT but I did know how to figure it out even if one gorgeous guy was grinning from ear to ear like he is really enjoying one of my most embarrassing moment. That makes him not so gorgeous. Ha-ha! It was really easy to go around I even reached the area where it was mostly dominated by Indians. Then I strolled on the streets of Chinatown where a gorgeous guy whom I asked to take my picture, offered to tour me around. I turn down the offer I know I am a daring adventurer but not really that reckless to go with strangers. I guess I was able to explore the city from end to end. I successfully toured the whole Sentosa Island the whole afternoon. Thanks to my handy map and luckily Singaporeans knows the English language, I am never afraid to ask for directions even to a stranger, if it was my husband it might have taken him the whole day to know his way around. I wonder why some men don’t want to ask for directions even if they know they are already lost. LOL! (If my husband is reading this --- I love you dear! J )

I feel the urge to explore Luzon while I am still here in PI for somehow I can almost see the light at the end of the tunnel (crossing my finger) and it is up to me now if I want to get there fast or just a little longer. Often times my colleagues at work would tell me to enjoy my time while I have no kids yet. For when they do come all your time will be spent for them. The thought of that doesn’t scare me I wouldn’t mind spending the rest of my life time taking care of my loved ones I believed I have come full circle in caring for myself and life did taught me so much that I am ready to teach my future off-spring, train them to be ready enough before they can explore and experience life on their own just like what I did. But I wish for them to be better persons than who I am. For now while I have time all my own I’ll celebrate life while I am still fit to be reckless on the road. As what I often tell my friends while I still have hands to hold a rope or grab a rock while climbing a mountain or paddle and swim on beautiful beaches; while I still have strong legs to stroll and walk around interesting places; while my eyes can still clearly see the beautiful creation of God; while I can still clearly hear the waves and the gushing of the wind as it caresses my skin. While I can still feel the awesome experience of being fully alive…I will.

I just checked my compass and its pointing North… watch out for it. :)

Wherever you are...Good Morning, Good Evening & Good Night!

His Thoughts on a Pedestal

2009-06-24T03:53:00.000-07:00

I have been pondering what to write this week I really get exhausted at the end of the day. What came to mind at first was to make a list of random questions that came to mind time and again whether it made sense or not. Then I thought of writing about embarrassing moments and my own funny bloopers in life but I was not in the mood to walk down memory lane. Then I thought of sharing my own guide on how to handle a long distance relationship but I haven’t completed it yet and I guess I would be more credible to write about it when I finally get to join my husband soon. Oh yes my husband, my lifesaver as always just saved my ass for this week’s blog.
Seldom do I blog, post entries or photos that involves my husband for the reason that he’s the one thing that I would want to be kept private and protect most of all. We both hate questions at the moment, we believed we don’t owe anyone explanation, just to each other. Sorry guys that’s how it works for us. J He’s someone I treasure the most and I am pretty proud that we have taken care of our relationship pretty pretty well. When you love someone you want to protect that person from other people’s critical remark. Right now, I am confident that he has proved himself to be the man who deserves to grow old with me. So I am going to put him into a pedestal for this week’s blog I will share with you a poem he wrote for me recently with that you can know just a bit of who is. Here’s a link to the poem he posted in his blog site… ladies and gentlemen presenting on centerstage (grins proudly) “The Distance Between Us” By: Ronald Caligan

Positive Note

2009-06-16T12:02:00.000-07:00

Time flies so fast we’re now in the middle of 2009 and yet nothing seems to improve. Instead everyone suffers from the financial crisis that shocked everyone last quarter of 2008. Prices are going up and yet people’s earning stays the same, some even needs to be cut-down and worst a lot of people lost their jobs. There was a strange change in the weather like storms in the middle of summer that we had to briefly enjoy lazing at the beach. Often times plans have to be postponed or cancelled that some people got disappointed. A lot of people got sick some with old age, some of malnutrition, some due to negligence and now there’s even a breakout of a new disease which I believe never fails to be present on the daily evening news. Some broken links here and there some lost their loved ones and some relationships just came to a halt. And many other disheartening circumstances.

At this point in time it does get exigent to stay optimistic for the coming days…weeks…or years. It seem like it will take a lifetime or more before things will become better. But that’s the pessimistic side of me that thinks so. We should not lose hope for we have a merciful God who always wants the best for us and I know that in time as long as we remain faithful in Him things will become better. Here are a few random suggestions to stay in the light, to feel the warm of sunshine even in the midst of a chilly dark storm.

1. Everything comes to an end. If joyous moments do come to an end then so must be those sorrowful and suffering times. Everything that we experience is temporary.

2. Live every moment without regret and blame.

3. Always look at the bright side, if it rains it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the moment, you can cuddle at home with your loved ones or if you’re single you can read a good book and enjoy a hot cup of Chocó. Staying at home can even help you save money you don’t need to spend anything. And it’s a good opportunity to stay away from the traffic and loud people as well. There will always be something good out of every situation.

4. If you have nothing good to say, shut up. As much as possible be in good terms with everyone. Be the reason for a harmonious relationship instead of causing a rift.

5. Forgive past mistakes, try to forget the pain. It takes time to sincerely forgive but when it comes I know that the pain has subsided and will eventually be forgotten for if not then most probably you have never really forgiven.

6. Enjoy the simple things in life. Sometimes when we have so many resources we equate happiness with what money can buy. That when the time comes we lack of it we think that we are the most useless person in the world. Remember that what genuinely make us happy are those what money can’t buy. The kind of happiness that doesn’t end after a few seconds, minutes, or hours or days. But a lifetime.

7. Build relationships and keep it solid. Never use and abuse otherwise karma will get back at you.

8. Try new things, constantly educate yourself so you will not be left behind and always be open for opportunities that can make you grow. Don’t be afraid to spread your wings.

9. Share, donate or just simply make someone smile.

10. Never compare your self, there will always be someone above or below you. Just be and constantly strive to become better and better. We all have our moments to shine.

11. If you are the kind who can easily be influenced as much as possible avoid loud, insecure, pessimistic people for they can be the reason for the clouds of doubt that hover over your head.

12. It’s good when you have many acquaintances it can be advantageous in your business as a network. But keep your real friends to a minimum those that you know will be there for you until you have grey hair, who will stand up for you, those who can slap you when you sort of gotten possessed by bad spirits in short those who can honestly advise you that you’re going towards the wrong direction or frankly tell you “you just acted like a jerk…apologize.” Most importantly those friends that even after long years of being apart and whom you can call at 3am for a chat will always make you feel good after you hang-up the phone.

13. Constantly communicate with family, with every opportunity you get hug them, kiss them and let them know how much they mean to you more than anything else.

14. Pray Pray Pray

That’s all for now, I know there’s more but some of them you may discover your self and do share them too. You never know how you can change someone’s life for the better with just a positive thought. Good Vibes Always!

Wherever you are… Good Morning, Good Evening & Good Night!

Hideaway... Found a Way!

2009-06-09T09:46:00.000-07:00

Where do you go?
That was the question that I always ask myself typically in times when I am faced with a dilemma. I escape when I can no longer handle a situation; if I can’t break-out I am like a dead-man walking. I am there but I’m not. More often than not I meander to places that can give me that sense of serenity or run to those people who can just be there without pressing me a question of “why are you here? What’s wrong?” A person who just knows how to be there comfortably even in silence. Who understands, that the right time to talk is when I am ready.
In those times when my heart was broken my sanctuary was the seashore. I just sit there in silence, watched the sea, listened to the waves, puffed a cigarette, chug a beer and then get teary-eyed. But I never cry instead the clouds always seem to cry on my behalf, (it always rains when there is a sad episode in my life). For a moment I will let the pain crush my heart ‘til its frayed then I let it go. In that solitary moment when other people think you’re lonely for being alone for me I am not. For in those solitary moment is the time I get to have the biggest and most comforting hug. God’s Love.
Bukidnon was a place I will always call my 2nd home. Here is where I start to build real relationships outside my own family circle. Many times in the past when I feel that everything around me was bringing me down this is the place where I would flee. I could choose to stay with a friend or check-in on a hotel and even one time go on a solo retreat. For me it was the safest place and I feel I am close to God when I go here… It was so much easier to hear Him when you are away from the noise that drowns you to depression and sin. I met not just interesting people but real people. One of them was Ate Flor, I do miss her terribly. I have not met anyone like her and I know she will never be replaced. She taught me how to respect a person’s choice even if it meant not including me in his/her life. Someday they will realize how valuable you are, in the mean time allow them and give them the freedom to discover that. While you move on and live life without expectations, wouldn’t it be better when life will just give you surprises once in awhile. And I mean surprises that really warm the heart and make you smile or jump for joy like you just won the lottery. She told me that forgiveness is better than getting back and getting even. To quote Dick Armey, “You can’t get ahead while you are getting even.” I am not really a vindictive person, I never was not until recently but that would be in another story. One thing I learned though when you get too attached to someone you start to think you know them very well then BOOM! You realize you don’t. Probably for a various reason that these things happen, the thing to do is to think of something positive out of that incident. When a door closes, there is something else that opens. Ate Flor knew that I was the kind of person who seeks for appreciation yet I too fall short in showing my own gratitude towards others particularly those I love. That one for me is a work in progress and I am trying as best as I could to get there soon.
Being in the Big City, it’s hard to be still and be silent. Too much going on, too many information to decipher, a diverse people to get by, your own personal glitches and it even becomes harder when you listen to the wrong person or the wrong ideas that the person may feed. It does get too overwhelming for a time that it really takes one rock-solid stable person to keep going and live on with the principles he/she believes in. And even though I am far-away from places where nature is at its best and makes me feel close to God, I have found my own haven where I can escape when situations start to pierce my soul. I pray. If I can’t handle it, God will. Who else can I entrust my life? Jesus take the wheel. =)

Sailing with Mrs Potts & Mrs. Grill

2009-04-23T04:55:00.000-07:00

The best books are those written by the heart and not by the mind. Because what the heart says touches the souls of others.

The best stories I wrote were those times when my heart was broken. I don’t pour out my pain on other people instead I go on isolation and spend my silence with Him. Like spend it on a retreat, solitary moments with nature or just taking a long ride on a bus. I reflect… I pray… then I write. Few people have read my writings then, only those who can understand the folly of love. There are rare times too that I open up, but they can be counted with the number of fingers in one hand. I consider them as the people with Wisdom for they have far more experience in life than I do. What makes it comfortable to talk with them is that when they listen they really listen with their heart and not with their mind that grinds as it is trying to process for some solution while you are narrating your story or issue. This wise people don’t shove their intelligence to your face like they know-it all but they don’t, instead they help you discover the answer yourself.
I few years back I was on board a ship to some place away from home. I was going to start a new life and mend a broken heart. On the cruise I met Mrs. Potts; it was during lunch time when I got to share a table with her. She was probably on her 50’s and she was fair, tall and little bit on the heavy side. We didn’t share the same cabin but we became mates during meal time. She was a nice woman to talk to and she shared a lot of stories including that of her unsuccessful marriage. But despite the sad story she remained strong and beautiful and a good person. When we arrived at the pier I got to meet her son, John and his wife and their kids. They were all beautiful and very kind to me even if I was a stranger. I believe they were grateful that I was there to give company to their mom during the trip. They were kind enough to give me a ride and I feel blessed I experienced that.
On another trip but this time going back home on board a ship again. I met another lady, Mrs. Grill. I think she was in her 40’s and she talks a lot. Sometimes a little too much but I guess she needed to talk about whatever she felt like talking because I believe she can’t talk about it when her children are around. On her own on that trip I became the prey…oppsss, I mean the listener that I believe she longed to talk to. Guess what? Another separated woman. She’s different though from Mrs. Potts…tougher. Probably it’s because she’s a bit younger and the separation seem a bit fresh the reason for such emotion on her story. But I can see how passionate she is to her kids and she is really proud of how she brought them up to become responsible and good persons.
Both women share the same story of unsuccessful marriage but despite that demise they hold the most wonderful gift out of that marriage, children who have grown up to be good and successful persons. Somehow, something good must have happen during the marriage. When I look back now I have this thought in mind, “maybe those two women were angels.” I was mending a broken hearted with a guy who just didn’t have the heart to love me us much as I did when I met them. Maybe, they were there to tell me, “Forget him or you’ll end up like us.” Now that’s kinda hilarious. LOL! But maybe they were really there to hold that invisible sign “Move on! He’s not worth it.” Hmmm…, If I was really nuts then, I wouldn’t mind ending up like them at least I have good and beautiful children. But that would be another Story. ;P

As we sail through life we discover that the people who make us laugh out loud are the strangers and acquaintances that we meet briefly in our lives and the people who can hurt us the most are the people who we love so dearly and hold close to our heart. Right? :)

25 + 25

2009-03-03T08:05:00.000-08:00

25 Dreams and 25 Realities....

Just random things about me. :) The first part is a repost from my facebook account. The 2nd part well, just one of those nights when you pondered who you were and what you've become. Pretty hard really it took me hours pounding my head to remember stuff and pondering on what I want to do. Either way I find my life colorful and really really blessed. It's all worth it. :)

There are more than 25 things about me… they are all jumbled in my head.
But I'm too lazy to write it down… a little mystery keeps the excitement. ;P
To put it in a nutshell… you must have known me for at least 5 years then you'll
know what the 25 or 25,000 things about me. Just figure it out. Good Luck!

I'll share with you though the 25 things I would wanna do

1.) Ride a big red balloon. from one city to another. When I'm 40 I'll ride it from USA to Canada. (lol!)
2.) Climb a majestic mountain…will maybe 2. One covered with snow and the other one an endless sea of green green grass…and lakes and spring here and there.
3.) Bungee Jump
4.) Sky Dive
5.) Go to another Asian country this year (Japan or Korea or Singapore again?!)
6.) Camp overnight at Stonehenge
7.) Dance under the star in Paris even when there's no music.
8.) Play "patentero" under the rain with childhood friends when we hit 50 or maybe when we all have silver gray hair!
9.) Bonfire at the Maldives with high school and college friends while we talk about crazy stuffs, green jokes, spoofs and maybe ghost stories too when we reach the mid-life crisis (are we not there yet? Lol!).
10.)Drink beer with the "Limbaroks" in Germany's Oktuberfest.
11.)Own a Yacht and cruise the Caribbean
12.)Paint
13.)Write a book
14.)Ride a big blue whale and swim with the dolphins.
14.)Beat Shakira on Belly Dancing. ;P
15.)Hug the oldest and wisest person in the world.
16.)Photograph the MOST... Beautiful Person, Beautiful Place, Beautiful Thing and Beautiful Moment.
17.)Go Roadtrippin' & Food Trippin' in Europe.
18.)Randomly ride buses and trains and just get lost in Uncle Sam's Land of the free, home of the brave.
19.)Group Hug with my family when we get reunited as in complete attendance.
20.)Learn to cook healthy food for my Ronald.
21.)Wake up every morning with a kiss from him.
22.)Watch every sunset with him.
23.)Have a Baby/s
24.)Write a song/lullaby and sing it to my child.
25.)Preach the Goodnews. :)

I know, I know… I am a dreamer, I value relationships and I love my family.
My aunt once told me that when you dream… dream big, dream high. It's free.
Anyway, Life is like a box of chocolate, you'll never know what you'll gonna get. Good Vibes Always!

--------------------

25 Random Things About Me…

1.) My nanny was a Guy and on his watch I fell off from an immobile Motorcycle. Thus the oldest scar I have is the one under the bushes of my left eyebrow. My first time to be in an emergency room. I got stitches at the age of 2. Miraculously my eyes were not damaged. Lucky Babe.

2.) My sisters and I used to form a singing group every December when we were kids. I would always be their guitarist. My guitar was an empty tissue box of my mom and I would place rubber bands as strings. Creative eh?! Well, I believe I was more of a mascot than the guitarist. Hehehe, but I believe it was because of me who made us earn more in caroling. They were amused that is. LOL!

3.)The first time that I have ridden a boat was when I was 4 or 5. My mom would always tag me along when we buy supplies in Cebu for the business. Fare was free until I reached the age of 7 which entitles me half of the regular fare. My mom continued to tag me along every year until I was 12 all the while she would declare that I was still 7. I was under height and under weight in my grade school days.

4.)I used to love and play with dogs when I was little but I almost got bitten by our neighbors dog. I still love dogs and adore watching their cuteness but I just can't seem to hold them…scared of their fangs.

5.) In my 33 years we have taken care of 5 dogs… 4 have gone to heaven: Blacky & Rocky (Askals...were given by my tito dodong) were poisoned by thieves, Poochie (Chinese Pikingese… given by Tito Tanting) died after giving birth her puppies died too, Chuchay (Poodle/Terrier… just knocked on our door one day I mean barked on our door one day as if to say… "adopt me!" and we did.) She died of old age. She is my favorite. Popoy is the boy who lives! The naughtiest and kinda stupid. Hahahaha! I don’t know much about this doggie yet but he surely loves that he no longer has to wait if he can snatch a food from chuchay.

6.) My very first job was to sell yema to my classmates when I was in Grade 1 or 2, which my sisters made. I have no commission whatsoever or salary. It was done for free and for experience. Aw, I get to have a free yema I think those that I did not get to sell. LOL!

7.) My very first income was earned when I was 10 or 11. Our neighbor was in Forestry, we did soil bagging (used for plating trees). For every bag, we earned 25 or 50 cents I am not sure. When we were done I spent my earnings on stationery, I guess and we treated our selves to SMOKEY'S in Ororama. LOL!

8.) I learned to buy bread when I was 4 or 5, it was in Choice Bakery located in Pabayo St.(between Gaerlan and Agustin) that I would always be asked to buy for merienda. Then It was on Ah Fat Bakery. Until college I was the one who will be asked to buy bread I believed I have been into all bakery shops that opened in Divisoria. Even now when I am in my hometown when I am out of the house my mom would text "Jude, paghapit sa Kathryn's pagpalit ug tasty bread kanang large." That's me, "Gingerbread." :)

9.) My first crush was Ramil my classmate when I was in Grade 1. Hahahaha! He was cute maayo na lng dili na ko kadumdum sa iyang surname.

10.)I have a strict and disciplinarian father when I was still in school. We were not allowed to go out after school time, must be at home by 5pm, not allowed to attend parties even proms and graduation ball. I was an obedient child but there were times when I would like to enjoy a little freedom. I would ride a jeepney, like Patag liner. I would get off from the same area where I got on. Joyride lang. :D

11.)I am a great fan of my father's speeches, whenever my father would be a speaker at parties I would really listen I am the proudest person in the crowd. :)

12.)My father asked me to run as Barangay Counsilor when I was 18. He wrote my speech for the meeting de avance which was in pure deep visaya that some words I can not even understand. Even so, I believe people got impressed and were convinced, I was # 4. I was the youngest member of the Council they were all in their 40's the SK Chairman was even older than me. Hahaha!

13.)My mom is my worst critic but it is her that inspires me to do my best.

14.)I used to write poems and short stories, those were the days when I can only admire someone from afar. Ayayyyy…

15.)Kapuy naman huna-huna, 11 more to go…. My mom would always buy identical clothes for me and my sister Em when we were young , that people would often think we were twins, mine would always be the girly shades while hers are the strong tones. No wonder she's more tough than me. I found out from Tita Ging that Lola did the same thing to her and mom. :D

16.)I love Shake(Salmon) Sashimi especially at Sumo Sam's but nothing beats my all time favorite food -- my Papa's famous Kinilaw.

17.)I love all shades of blue and purple. I hate neon colors and shocking ones.

18.)I don’t like band-wagoning I always take the road less traveled.

19.)I am not trendy or "pauso" I wear what's comfortable without coming out as "baduy or jologs".

20.)I love to smell good all the time and I love it when people around me smells good too. Kung anghit ka palayo na lang kay I will definitely sneeze. If I sneezed and you’re the person near me it means wa ka naligo. Hahahaha!

21.)I am not scared to ride planes, trains, boat… not even when I have to travel alone. I have met a lot of interesting people in my travels. :)

22.)I love writing, that I realized. I used to write long letters to my aunt when I was a kid. I kept a journal since high school until I got married . Now I do blogging when I can find the time to write something inspiring or just to simply share my thoughts.

23.)I'd rather be safe than sorry…. I'd rather save than go broke.

24.)I hate Manila's Friday traffic, Holiday traffic, Bitchy Taxi drivers, "Kalawangon na" Taxi cabs, Jampacked MRTs, Polluted air and public commuting. Maka-highblood. Toxic.

25.) I love to travel… I love to eat labi na kung libre mas mo lami, I enjoy roadtrips, I love laughing with my friends, I love being married to my bestfriend and I love the thought of being happy again tomorrow. :)

Believe it or not… I completed this note in 4 hours. Haaaayyyy..
Wherever you are… Good Morning, Good Afternoon & Good Night.

Counting Raindrops

2008-12-29T07:24:00.000-08:00

Looking back 2008 has not been such a good year... and we thought # 8 is such a lucky number. There were a lot of tragedies, deceit, downfall and failures. That is if you focus on the negative and magnify it.

There were things that made me sad...

* When i have to leave my work of 2 years which means seeing some of my friends much lesser like seeing them only on holidays... if we get lucky to have the time.

* When I was hospitalized for 2 straight days and was on dextrose for the very first time in life. And my mom was to leave for the US on my 2nd day. So sad to be alone on the hospital room. Now I understand why we need to visit the sick and the dying... its just so lonely and you feel more sick.

* When I neglected some people and some opportunity because I focused on just one person.

* When Chuchay died.

* My auntie narcing and uncle daniel died

* People in my family got sick now and then

* Reality bites.

There are might be a long list.... but I'd like to look back on the blessings to and be thankful.

* My husband came home and spend the summer with me after quite a long time.

* Though i left work my collegues kept their door and friendship open for me.

* I have shared with the poor what little I have in my own simple way.

* My mom's dream to travel outside the Philippine's came true.

* My sister came home and spent longer time at home after years of being away for study & work.

* New opportunities for my family.

* A stronger relationship with my husband.

* I was healed from hyperthyroidism.

* I worked again and living independently in Manila.

* I gained weight in a good way.

* I reconnected with old friends.

* I have more roadtrips and more will come. :)

* I am blessed with friends who welcome me in their home like family

* I am blessed with friends who when my car breaks down will still go and ride the bus with me. (bisan wala gud koy car. hehehe)

* I have parents who will always welcome me with open arms when I am home despite of my shortcomings.

* I have sisters who I can count on whenever i holler for help.

* I have a big little brother who is ever ready to give me a hug and a goodnight kiss on my forehead.

* I have in-laws who are supportive.

* I have remain strong in faith and I remain hopeful. And good things continue to happen and whenever not so good things happen God makes sure I can always handle it.

* I have helped a friend who is at her lowest and nothing is more fulfilling than giving someone the chance to live as she deserves.

* I completed my Simbang Gabi for the very first time. :D

* I am happy to be spending my christmas holidays for 10 days in my home town.

* I am happy to walk every single day with the Lord.

There is a long list and I am thankful that God showered me with so much blessings. If it drizzled in sadness in some days blessings come in storm. :D

Wherever you are...

Good morning & Good night! ;P

Manga-on Na!

2008-11-09T05:52:00.000-08:00

Emote Icon:
Soundtrack: Wind Beneath my Wings
Inspiration: Family

A friend asked me a question once which he warned me might stress me out. I got intrigued and told him to shoot away because I like to make my mind grind. “What is the one thing that is constant in this world?” he asked.

I readily answered… Change. That was easy, I thought.

Then he asked “what is the one thing that doesn’t change in this world?”

Love, was my first answer. He said that it can change at some point in time, at least the intensity and to some they can choose to stop loving someone and love another. He has a point; that is why I don’t believe that first love never dies. The memory is there it can never be erased but the feeling may no longer be there. It’s just a memory that can either make you smile or frown or nothing at all.

Then I said…Faith? I was not sure because I know that every human is weak at some point in their lives. And our faith falters because we know we lack something that only the Mighty God can fill.

“Is that an answer or a question? Or are you already stressed out?” he teased.

Clue please!

“When you were born you already have it and ‘til you die you have them.

I pondered some more… now I am stressed out, answer please.

RELATIONSHIPS, he said.

When you were born you did not choose who your parents will be God choose them for you and so are your siblings. They are there for a reason they are not just there to watch you grow and go but they are there to give meaning to your life. And even when you are far from them or when you don’t see them for a long time it remains that you are a family. Even if you don’t like to have them around all the time you will still look for them at some point in time. Even if you go away and leave and thought of never coming back you will still come home and forget you thought of the latter. Even if you thought that spending time with friends and people outside the family circle are much better company you will realize some day that they are just passersby and some just don’t stay for long. But your family is there to stay no matter how annoying they can be.

We continue to build relationships outside the family circle and the web constantly grows but the core makes us who we are and is our pillar of strength. When everything else will fall apart we know that they will remain to be there for us.

Today I thought of my family, it is a Sunday. I ate alone in my coffee table and a tear got caught in my eye. I missed eating in our huge table. Yah, I do miss the food my mom deliciously cooks but more so I missed their presence. Even if we were not a noisy bunch during meal time the comfort of their presence around the table is something I will value now.

Next time my mom calls out “manga-on na!” For sure, I will be the first one to respond on that call.

(Advance Happy Birthday Mom!)

Photo by: http://meckelfoxgirl.deviantart.com/

Stardust and Wishes

2008-10-29T06:56:00.000-07:00

Emote Icon:
Soundtrack:Stardust by Nat King Cole
Inspiration: Fireworks

I was going to write about my Christmas wishes in the past but I guess I am having memory problem nowadays. I could not remember my Christmas wishes anymore, either that or I never really made wishes. All I can remember was the My Melody watch that I asked from my father when I was 9 but it never came. When I was so much younger (with emphasis) I rarely ask for anything in particular during Christmas but that I would anticipate that I would open more gifts than my sisters. LOL! For me opening gifts is really fun and to never anticipate what’s inside is more fun than hoping you get what you wish for. But if you do get what you wish for that’s a bonus. I’d rather be surprised though. J

I take whatever is given to me am always happy when I receive something whatever it is whether it’s big or small, expensive or cheap, something useful or not . Whatever it is that I receive I am always grateful and I never fail to say Thank You. Somehow it’s not the thing that is given to me that really makes me happy but the thought that they thought of me and took the time to look for something to show me that they care is more meaningful. So if you’re planning to give me a gift on Christmas (hehehe assuming) just follow what your heart tells you and for sure whatever it is you give me will really make me smile and maybe I will even jump for happiness.

Last Friday, my good friend Robert and I were going to meet our former officemate, Ellen, at the Mall of Asia. While looking for a place to park which I believed it took us 4-5 times circling the area. I told him he is wasting gas and he’s just like a kid driving his toy car round and round. He has this habit of driving around an area a couple of times before he can decide where to park and sometimes he does so while he is talking on the phone. “Pasaway”. Anyway, while we drove around a fireworks show begun so we decided to stop on the roadside near the bay area to watch it. At the outset it was not that grand… “mura ra ug pisik-pisik matud pa ni Roberto.” But as it progressed I was like a kid again amazed by the dancing lights in the sky. And the finale… my gosh! it was like fairy tale it was raining stardust in Manila bay. I have seen more grand fireworks in Hongkong Disneyland but I guess I am always a kid when I see fireworks it never fails to excite the kid in me. I really have very simple joys I am so easy to please. J

I don't make a Christmas wish but I do make a wish when I see the first star that shines at night or the brightest star. I don't wish for things I only wish one thing to Mr. Star ever since I learned how to love another person and that's a secret between us. :)

Wishes and fireworks are not just for children but also those who are kids at heart.

Kesong Kayumanggi

2008-10-09T09:59:00.000-07:00

Emote Icon:
Soundtrack: Manila
Inspiration: Brown Man

A year ago I decided to leave the rat race due to health conditions. It took half a year before I was let go by my boss. I actually love that job and the people I work with no matter how challenging it was. Although sometimes they do rock my brains others annoy me and some are just plain weird but despite of all that, I Belong. It was there that became more confident and assertive, and they taught me how to laugh out loud 'til your stomach aches and you start crying. Crazy happy people! J I was trusted by my employer and they believed in my capability. Even with out a spoken praise or hardly received, the thought that I was given a responsibility that was almost like saving a house on fire was something done with faith.

After 6 months of hibernation and a flabby belly I felt I was getting lazy as the days pass. Vacations do end and mine was looooong overdue. I decided to hunt for a job in Manila. Why Manila? Because I can do things independently, make decisions on my own and be responsible for it. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate every advice or suggestions offered from family or friends but I can move and live my life if I know the choice made was mine and not someone else. And I don’t underestimate CDO either, it’s a booming city and it is a nice place to retire someday, it’s just that I made a choice to be here in Manila. That’s it. No long explanation what so ever. My stay here is temporary though for the reason that I believe almost everybody knows. It’s in the works guys so spare me the questions it’s getting corny and annoying. Hehehe! For sure, I’ll bring the news when it comes. Sit back and relax and don’t worry about someone else problem. :D

So now I am back in the rat race. In the city of Makati where there are a lot of road runners, crocodiles, crabs, sharks, snake etc. But when I think about it, they are really in every business establishments from Aparri to Jolo. It’s just that Makati or Manila is a bigger venue thus, the huge population of the sharp tooth amphibians. LOL! I sent applications online, there were lots of job hiring for accountancy left and right. My friend’s home phone line was burning with calls from those I sent applications there was even one time where there were 4 companies who scheduled an interview for me all in the same day. Fully book akong beauty. I had to refuse some, especially when I found out they are an agency or local business outsourcing. I enjoyed all my interviews I never really felt nervous because I have been on that side too, interviewing applicants. Somehow I know what the interviewer wants and how they feel towards the applicant in front of them. I was just talking spontaneously and like I am having a conversation over coffee with the interviewer.

I remember when I had this guy applicant from my last job. While I was listening to him it was obvious that he really memorized what he was going to say, I was really amused that I can’t help to smile and laugh a bit in front of him when he was done talking. LOL! I thought to myself, “gosh, I must sound like him before, some answers are scripted.“ Years ago when I go to interviews, the night before I would research for usual questions in an interview and practice in answering them on writing. And I would read it over and over again when I’m done. LOL! So much work! By the way I hired that guy! ;P

2 weeks after my arrival in Manila and 2 weeks after online application and personal interviews I am back in the rat race. I hope the cheese is never stale. :P

Bloated

2008-09-18T06:46:00.000-07:00

Emote Icon:
Soundtrack:Let's Get Physical
Inspiration:Miss Piggy

I have been itching to write for weeks. At any given time or place something or a situation will inspire me to write or maybe with just one word I’d hear I can create a story about it. But the moment I sit in front of the computer, my mind goes blank. I guess sometimes negative energy sucks out the good vibes that by the time I hit the keyboard I forgot what had inspired me minutes or hours ago. Other times there are too many things going on around me (and in my head) that I feel too exhausted to write or share something. I never want to write when I feel bad or too stressed because as much as possible I want this blog to be guilt free and nothing else but good vibes.

The last three weeks has been a rollercoaster ride for me but the details or the gist of it will be shared in another post. I noticed that for the past weeks my tummy has been chunky like those of the Teletubbies minus the antenna. No, I’m not pregnant I wish I was though so that I can easily say it’s the reason for the flabbiness. Unfortunately, it’s not human that’s growing inside I’m not sure if its star margarine or anaconda. Either way I’ve learned that having a loooooonnnnnnggggggg vacation from work and social life can result to the destruction of your weighing scale. Thank God, I don’t have weighing scale in the house. And to those who know me very well, I’m not obese. Not yet though, I’m not praying for it. Seriously.

In fairness, I enjoy every sumptuous meal and every thing edible I put into my mouth is heaven. Yah, I love to eat more and I dream to be fit and sexier and not thinner or fat. However, when you think that you can not do the things you want to do or what you can do even when you haven’t started it yet you tend to just let things pass you by. You bloat to nothingness. You blow up even when nothing is pumped in.

Whoa…why am I ranting about being fat?! I’m not even really podgy. Blame it on the sleeveless blouse I had made 2 years ago. I was fitting it just awhile back and to my…“holy cow!” my tummy looked like it’s gonna blow up or that tummy is trying to wrestle with blouse. But!... it could be the blouse have shrunk. I guess that would be it.

I guess I should learn to rise earlier so I can experience that energizing morning walk, run some more, climb hills, swim and splash, laugh some more, risk and make mistakes now and then, learn some more, eat some more, get sick sometimes, recover and get well, eat some more and try new dishes, hit the road, get lost, finding my way home, learn some more, feeding my brain and filling my heart with love… and so much more. In short, Live Life like there are no rules and that you have a wide road ahead of you or it may be a narrow one either way make that journey to where your heart will lead you.

I broke HE mends

2008-09-01T01:17:00.000-07:00

Emote Icon:
Soundtrack: HE
Inspiration: God

I have been hurt and i have hurt others too. i am not perfect. but HE forgave and so must I.

HE
He can turn the tide And calm the angry sea
He alone decides Who writes a symphony
He lights every star That makes our darkness bright
He keeps watch all through Each long and lonely night

He still finds a way To hear a child's first prayer
Saint or sinner calls And always finds him there
Though it makes him sad To see the way we live
He'll always say - I forgive

He can grant a wish Or make a dream come true
He can paint the clouds And turn the grey to blue
He alone knows where To find the rainbows end
He alone can see What lies beyond the bend

He can touch a tree And turn the leaves to gold
He knows every lie That you and I have told
Though it makes him sad To see the way we live
He'll always say - I forgive

Cinderella goes to Heaven

2008-08-10T08:38:00.000-07:00

Emote Icon:
Soundtrack: One Sweet Day
Inspiration: Chuchay

It was year 2001 when a stranger knocked on our door and changed our lives.

Her name is Patricia, but she was originally christened by my Mom as Pachuchay which was the namesake of Judy Ann Santos in one of her Teleserye. Most of the time we call her chuchay or chay-chay she never really minds what you call her as long as you are not shouting and scaring her away.

She came into our lives in the most unexpected and weird way. I was not there when it happened but this was the way it was told to me. My father was tending on his business one day; there were times when there weren’t so many customers he would stand by outside the entrance door just watching passersby. It was just another ordinary day but then came this dog so filthy and stinky she stood outside the entrance door where my father was. My father thought she was a beautiful dog if only she was clean and well maintained. My father figured the dog was lost for days and it seemed she was pregnant before because of her swollen nipples. The dog just stood there in front of him like it was telling him…”adopt me!” I don’t know what my father thought but he let the dog in. He bathed the dog and took all the yucky lice on her thick hair. Ah Chuchay might have felt so refreshed after that bath, she always feel good after every bath. Then my father tried to feed her but she didn’t touched the food instead she went to one corner or hid under the table. My father thought “well if she doesn’t eat then she might as well go back on the street”. So he let the dog out and told her to go away. She did not run off like what she does whenever she has that chance of going out the old house (the old house was where we used to have our business and our dormitory) instead she just slowly walked away. My father watched her go when she reached into the corner she stopped and was like trying to make a decision on the crossroad of her life. Looking left and right, my father just watched her then like having reached a choice she went back to where my father was. He let her in again and this time she ate her food and stayed for good.

Chuchay was not my dog she was more like the baby of my younger sister. They bonded more than we did because it took me 1 year before I get to know her and I was always travelling. Having her around allowed us to have happy talk times we would always make funny interpretations of her actions, with matching voice over, her presence made us have fun conversations. Chuchay was also a good companion she was like my body guard when I was alone in the dormitory, very alert. She will warn you when something is about to enter the house whether a thief or a rat. She will not stop barking until they run away. I felt safe when she was around. She was also a good listener when I just want to share something that made me felt so bad without having to be criticized as weak or stupid she just stares at you blankly. But sometimes I felt she understands when I am sad there is that look of sympathy in her eyes or I might just be imagining but nevertheless she stays beside me on my sentimental moments. We have more happy and fun moments though it would take a whole book to write it.

Chuchay had her last breath this afternoon. Before lunch time she was having difficulty breathing her moaning really sounded like she was in so much pain, saliva was gushing out of her mouth and she can hardly raise her head and can’t stand. She was slowly dying my mom told me. I didn’t want to believe it (the stage of in denial when someone is about to go) I thought to myself this is just one those days when she feels ill and she always get better the next day she always does. I wanted to call the veterinarian but my mom said it’s closed since its Sunday so I thought tomorrow I will have the vet come and check on her. I was meeting a friend after lunch when I went out of the house Chuchay was still in a very bad shape but I had faith she will be better I thought…”hang in there doggie!” I went to mass at 5:30pm after having coffee with my friend. During Homily Chuchay came to my mind, I prayed she was getting well, I prayed her pain will go away. I went home right away after mass. When I reached the gate I only saw “Pipoy”, our pup in the garage. I looked for Chuchay she was just lying earlier under the bamboo chair, I thought maybe she was in the kitchen I was really hoping she was. I asked my mom where she was, she said she died and was buried already. I asked what time? She didn’t know the carpenter just saw her lifeless and informed them and they buried her right away. I asked, what time was she buried? She said she was not sure but around 3pm or past 3. I went out of the house a few minutes before 3pm. I thought, did she just wait for me to go and not witness her death? I asked my mom again if my younger sister knew. She said yes she already told her. I went to my room… this may sound funny but I cried and I am even teary eyed right now. Shesh! I know she is just a dog but she is no ordinary dog to me she was a family to us.

Wherever you are Chubby am sure there are lots of foodies! And boundless field where you can run free and play all day and of course a much cozier place to sleep at night. Be good, I know you are because you were always a good doggie. We miss you! So long Chaps!

We Come in Pairs

2008-07-14T08:15:00.000-07:00

Emote Icon:
Soundtrack: Fly Me to the Moon
Inspiration: HANCOCK

I watched a movie today…alone. I had fun though if you think otherwise.

Totally relaxing and entertaining for me for 2 hours just munching my popcorn and sippin’ my ice tea while viewing Will Smith on the big screen. I Love the Guy! I just hate it that in every good movie he does he always have to give up something, his life or something that he loves. It makes me love him more. Ok I am not going to say anything more in case you still haven’t watched HANCOCK. And this is not a review.

I had a dream a few years back when I have not met my husband yet. It was a weird dream I can still vividly remember it even now. There was a part there where in I was in the midst of wise old silver grey haired men all dressed in white robe. They look so tall and they were happy to see me when I entered the room. I was blessed by one of them. Then one of them led me to a gypsy looking girl. In the sea of white robed men she wore a very colorful dress like all shocking colors were present on it. She held my hand and was like reading my life just by staring at me. Then she said, “There is someone in your life who you love so dearly. But beware of this man, for he can ruin your life.” There was one person who popped into my mind when I was about to ask her if it was him. The gypsy girl got lost in the crowd. Weird. I think I had sweats when I woke up. But that dream haunted me. The place, the people, who all I do not know of and the message they gave me or the dream as a whole.

You might wonder why HANCOCK is related to my dream. Because the movie is not just about super power or a hero but a little romance also defines who HANCOCK is.

I believed that all of us have a soul-mate and not all of us are lucky enough to be married to our twin soul. But there is a divine reason for sure why some could and some could not. For those who could maybe their purpose in life is much better fulfilled together. While those who can’t lives a more fulfilling life apart for if they come together they can either make damages to other peoples lives or destroy their very own. I know things like this happen around us and we don’t need to be like Hancock to find that out. There are married people who meet someone they can connect to more than they can with their spouse. The feeling overwhelms them that if they give in they know it will result to an irreparable damage. I believe the most heroic act a person can do when he knows he could ruin the life of someone he loves is to unselfishly let the person go so that she can live and be happy for what she already has. One must learn to accept their fate and make a stand for the choices they made. Life is queer but that’s just how it is, imagine if life was just all pleasant. It would be boring and pointless.

You might be wondering by now if I have met my soul-mate already. I am not sure if I did but one thing I am sure of I am married to a man who loves me in ways nobody can comprehend. The kind of relationship that we have is one that is being questioned by a lot of people and there are some who attempts to plant a seed of doubt. Intentionally and unintentionally. Through the years I stand by my man and I am here still, believing him and loving him more than yesterday and so much more tomorrow. Anyone who tries to discourage us better stop because a strong marriage will never be broken by a society’s negativity. No man should break what God has joined together.

Oh my! I have been blabbering much tonight… I think Will Smith makes my mind grind. LOL!

Stay cool everyone and give your spouses some huggin’ and kissin’! As for me I told Mr. Moon to blow my man kisses! He always does. *Wink Wink!*

photo courtesy of devianart.com & google.com

Keep Walking On Sunshine

2008-07-13T03:01:00.000-07:00

Emote Icon:
Soundtrack: Sunshiny Day!
Inspiration: A girl friend

I would often times refuse to see what is obvious and hurtful or damaging to ourselves or to people we love. I never believe in hearsay even when a lot of people confirmed it not unless it is coming from the direct person involve. I would rather think of the chance on succeeding than the thought of failing. I choose to see the good despite of the existence of evil. I give chance, I forgive. I am human. I have live a life filled with so much hope I never run out of it even when I almost go empty it is miraculously filled all the time. In a culture where I grew a lot of eyes are prying on your every move. Some of them even get happy when things are against you. So darn NASTY. And you can find them even in the circle you call friends. I am lucky I don’t have one in my circle or I might just be turning a blind eye as usual. No matter what I don’t get bothered because the people who judge you are just escaping their own flaws. They think that by looking at your imperfection or inadequate life it gives them that sense of relief that they are better than you. Let them be happy with that thought. You got more important things to deal with than worry on what other people think. Anyhow we are all having a temporary journey on earth. Each life is lived with uniqueness and should be given with respect for how it is lived. Don’t waste your life on negativity. Stay in the light.

Have Faith... it takes a lot of courage and strength to sustain it but it is the one that keeps your cup always filled with hope and love.

Eastern Light

2008-07-04T22:58:00.000-07:00

Emote Icon:
Soundtrack: i feel good!
Inspiration: my dark knight

A lot of good things happen to me this week.
I have counted the ways and I am thankful for the wonderful blessings...
BIG and small.
I think I don't have to write them down here one by one.
It is best etched in my heart.
I just want to share to the world that happiness can be found everywhere.
We make them happen with our faith.
Despite of the many bad news that we hear and see on TV,
(which i believe most are news that the Devil are so happy of)
I still believe God does not sleep on Us.
I have fervently prayed this week for a procedure I have to go through on my own.
And I believe with all my heart God was holding my hand all through out.
I felt so safe.

I have not touched my camera for some time now.
When you are at home everyday there is not much interesting subject to capture.
Before I went to sleep though I took a picture of my self.
I noticed that the breakouts and acne scar I had 3 months ago was almost gone.
Ah the rest from stressful work was worth it.
Do you see any traces of worry and stress on my face?I will not trade it for any stressful & backbreaking job at the moment. I am also able to discover more of my talents and skills and not just number crunching or solving someone else problem. I remember then what my husband thought of me when we first corresponded.
That I was a girl who has a lot of potential and a lot to offer the world. And I was his Light at the end of the tunnel. I don't really see my self that way, but hearing it from him makes me want to become a better person everyday. He inspires me in everything I do and I believe how beautiful I look and feel right now because I am so loved by my man.

Tricycle

2008-06-23T04:34:00.000-07:00

Monday… what does a bum do on a Monday? Unlike everyone else I don’t have to wake up early just to snooze my alarm clock for another 10 minutes repeatedly. Yah that’s what I do then when I was still in the rat race I usually get out of bed after an hour. LOL! Good for me I was on flexi time. Now I can sleep according to how my body clock works which is usually 4 hours behind from Philippine time. I am not really an insomniac it’s just that sometimes great ideas usually pop-up in the wee hours so I take that opportunity to work on it; and if something has got me engrossed like juicy topics on the net or anything that I am interested on I get attached to the tube or on this flat screen in front of me. It just amazes me to be able to access a lot of information it makes me feel so connected with the world even when I am just sitting here alone in my room. My mom is not happy though that I get to stay up late, not that she is worried that I will lack sleep and get sick but more so that our electric bill will get high. LOL! Oh I love my mom! J

Speaking of mom’s, since it was Monday and it was not raining so I wasn’t down like what the song says. Seriously. Back to the mom… so it was Monday and I usually do grocery on this day because there will be fewer people so I don’t really need to wait on a long line to pay. On the way to the grocery I rode a tricycle, one of the mom of my classmate then who was also our neighbor from the next block was on the same ride. She doesn’t really know me because we were not really introduced and I have a very low profile in our subdivision in fact our next door neighbor doesn’t know my name. But that’s another story. *wink* So while on the road another woman rode the tricycle and my classmate's mom was so excited because they have not seen each other for a long time. So they exchange updates, I did not mean to eavesdropped but their voices was just so loud. ;P Like they were a mountain away. LOL! Understandably, Filipinos are just a happy bubbly people when a conversation starts up especially with someone we have not seen for a long time. All emotions are being used in almost every sentence. That's how alive we are. According to her she just came from a city somewhere in the Southeast Asia, she stayed there for a year with her son who happens to be my classmate. Thought bubble on my head: So toa na diay didto si Pepito (not his real name). According to the mother, Pepito invited his parents to stay there for a year, they were excited and wanted to work but Pepito said, “no ma, no need to work you can just see sights here and there, tour the city for short. For 1 year (with emphasis).” Thought bubble on my head: Wow! Bongga na kaayo si Pepito! Then the mother continued to brag on her children’s success…”My Pepita is also going there soon she found work there and my Pepito accepted a consultancy job in Australia so next year Pepito said we might go there for vacation. Thought bubble on my head: Wow! Dili na jud ma reach si Pepito, Super rich na jud sha!. The mother continued on praising her Pepito, “You know what, the earnings of my husband in the Government for a year Pepito earns it in just one month.” Thought bubble on my head: Of course, if you convert dollars to peso it’s 40X bigger but you’re also spending in dollars there. Then she continued, “Oh Pepito sends $500 dollars every month to his dad. Every month (with emphasis). ” Thought bubble on my head: I am sure you have a share. Ikaw nga ata tumatanggap eh. (smirk on my face). The storm is in Luzon but it’s so “mahangin” here in the tricycle. The other woman while consistently nodding and saying ahhh… uyyyy… wow…. sunddenly said, “I heard all your things in the house were robbed while you were gone.” Thought bubble in my head: That was so farfetched from the original topic. My stop came, good thing.

So what does a bum do on a Monday? Learn. ;P

My Life's Dictionary 1.0

2008-06-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

Here are three words that I would like to define according to how I have experienced and learned it from life.

Tears - Are feelings not spoken or just couldn't be expressed in any words because it's too overwhelming.

Uncertainty - No matter how well planned your life is... life will still give you surprises. You may like it or not, but detours can be good for you. Depends on how you take it.

Hope - It is a choice. Too see light in the dark. Anticipating with confidence on what you desire.

This three words will somehow define how I breath life for the last 4 years. If you asked me how I am holding-up. I am pretty much alive and living my life still with so much zest. It is my choice. This is my life no one has to feel sorry if things are not happening the way we think it should. Raincloud may hover on some days but it's not every day that it rains. So it is alright to cry... my tears keep me strong. Life's uncertainty makes us wiser because we just have to keep on improving until we reach perfection. We are not molded for just one day. Hope is my daily vitamin. With out it I may have given up long time ago. Here I am though surviving the years. It is a bittersweet years. I lived no matter. God's Love and mercy allowed me to face the passing years with Love in my heart...that never waver.

An Open Mind

2008-06-16T09:52:00.000-07:00

A right is not what someone gives you; it's what no one can take from you. ~ Ramsey Clark

I have not been blogging for months it just went out of my system for awhile. My work was eating 95% of my time and it was eating up my health as well. That job was so challenging and I loved it but it also gave me lots of trips to my doctor. And when something you think you love is destroying you, you have to let it go. So I quit. Ahhhh... I love the smell of freedom, freedom from stress. I just heard someone on TV said, “Sometimes Freedom is a curse,” I wonder what he freakin’ meant by that. Everybody loves freedom, everyone longs for it. We are all, in some point in our lives get stuck on something that doesn’t allow ourselves to improve or progress and we just want to break free.

After I quit, well I didn’t really sat down and start writing again just because I have nothing to do or work to get busy on instead I celebrated life and enjoyed the summer with my favorite person in the whole wide world, my husband. :) I believe I deserved it, the best treat I got this year.

So summer ends and hubby has to fly back again to the other side of the world. Now I have to start thinking on what to keep me busy. So I thought of reselling some of the products I liked to use. I created my online shop through multiply.com but I never limit myself on doing business online because I am just starting and there are already established resellers online, there’s pretty much competition on this online business. But I really just do this for the love of the product and having fun sharing it to others…not for free though. :P Since I do business offline also I need to have tools to market my product such as brochure, catalog, business card and the like since there are prospect market within my area who doesn’t access the internet that much. That kept me busy and I so loved doing it. I was able to use the creative and artistic side of my brain again (I’ve been dealing with numbers for most of my career life). :) I was so proud of what I have done when it was finished.

At the moment, I need to push myself a little farther on the marketing aspect because I am not really good at it. It’s a new challenge but I am still taking baby steps on this one. The passion is there though, just that I don’t want to overwhelm myself too much or I might experience a “system failure.” Hehehe!

Now here I am, blogging again. Actually my blog site has been tugging me for months I just couldn’t bring myself to write because I realized not all people will appreciate what you’ve written and you could hurt someone along the way even though unintentional. And to hear someone comment on what you’ve written and unfortunately what they have to say is something they are not really happy about, it breaks my heart. Worst if it’s coming from some people you care. You see, my purpose for this blog is to inspire people not to disappoint them. I realized now that’s pretty hard to do and it entails a huge responsibility. And it is asking so much from my self. I am not really some Hero who can save or light up someone’s life. I believe only God can do that.

I am here just to write my thoughts… my train of thoughts. In writing I have the freedom to express my feelings, my thoughts and my passion. I am careful though not to smash up anyone in particular. I may have some opinion of my own on some famous people who are unsurprisingly a frequent target of public’s opinion but I try as much as possible to keep everything in balance. Meaning not to put them in such a bad light because like every one of us, they are not perfect and that makes them human and ordinary like the rest of us. As a writer not every story I have to tell is something you would like to read. You have a choice for that, either you stop reading my blog or you can learn from it by keeping your mind open. :)

Freedom lies in being bold. ~ Robert Frost