XPLORE MARILAG

Enjoy the Upland Breeze While Staying in This Instagrammable A-Frame House in Cueva, Santa Maria, Laguna

2021-11-07T00:43:00.001-07:00

4 Aces Private Pool and Campsite has a refreshing outside view and aesthetically pleasing interiors. This place will never disappoint, whether your aim is to relax with friends, spend the holidays with your family, or destress alone.

Located in the uplands of Santa Maria, Laguna, this site can be reached through a 30-45 minute drive from the town plaza area. Nearby restaurants, convenience stores, and parks (such as the Santa Maria layby) can be reached (through car) upon your stay here.

The cozy A-frame house includes various amenities to make you feel at home. Imagine reading your favorite book in the middle of the weekday here while drinking kapeng barako as the quietness of the place lulls you to sleep. Enjoying the natural view as you stay in the balcony is another option you may do as well.

Another reason to consider this place, aside from the view and amenities, is the climate. This area can be likened to Tagaytay without the traffic and busyness.

Interested to spend a day or two here? Check these details out:

*RATES (22 HOURS):

Kubo 2 pax 1500

A-Frame 2pax 2500

Kubo 3 to 5 pax 3500

A-Frame 3 to 5 pax 4500

Kubo 6 to 8pax 5000

A-Frame 6 to 8 pax 7000

KUBO (ALL-IN)

10 to 15 pax

Amenities:

Free Drinking

Gas Stove

Kitchen Utensils

Grill

Refrigerator

Videoke

Rice Cooker

Pool

Dartboard

Chessboard

Kunapat Falls Trip

AMOUNT: 8,000

A-FRAME HOUSE

10 to 15 pax

Amenities:

Free Drinking Water

Gas Stove

Kitchen Utensils

Grill

Refrigerator

Videoke

Rice Cooker

Pool

Billiards

Chessboard

Guitar

A/C Room

Kunapat Falls Trip

AMOUNT: 10,000

Contact this number for booking:

09176500471

*Peak season charges

Relieve Screen Fatigue by Beholding the Luscious Sierra Madre Forest from a 35-Feet Tower in Santa Maria, Laguna.

2021-11-03T06:35:00.006-07:00

Tired of staring at your screen? Burnt-out with repetitive tasks? Unplug for a while and regain your vigor by stimulating your senses with the life-giving beauty of nature.

More than being lost in the woods, it is breathtaking to find yourself looking at them from above. This is what NSJ Forest Park in Santa Maria, Laguna offers with its new attraction, the 35-feet forest tower.

Tower 360° is a wooden structure situated at the heart of Santa Maria's accessible forest area. This private site enables visitors to view the vast greens covering Sierra Mountain Range, along with the scenic provincial lake. The cool upland climate and gentle breeze you may experience here make this spot a home you would want to revisit no matter the season.

NSJ Forest Park accepts visitors for day tour, overnight, and week-long transactions. Tent-pitching, bonfire activity, forest-trekking, and spring water swimming may also be enjoyed here. For more information, you may visit their page or contact their mobile hotline: 09688820612. Accommodation rate starts at 250 Php.

Here are some photos you may want to take a look at:

"Come forth into the light of things, let nature be your teacher."

William Wordsworth

Photo Credit: Eric Del Mundo, Lourd Daylag, and Ma. Czarita Aguja

FOREST TREKKING AT NSJ

2021-06-04T21:55:00.017-07:00

The tendency to neglect our soul due to the demands of daily tasks, pull of technology, and uncontrolled grasping of the things we see may lead to mental health problems which, if not dealt with, may produce long-term effects that are difficult to resolve. Being driven and task-oriented, I have learned the hard way in terms of taking care of myself.

People who have the tendency to crash and suffer due to work-related stresses need to carve out a rhythm to make it in the long haul. The work-rest, engage-disengage, and plug-unplug weekly patterns have rewarding benefits their observers won't regret.

One of the ways I destress is by appreciating nature. Biking, photography, and visiting the sites are my weekly musts for me to thrive and be more effective at what I do. I will always be thankful that there are rice fields a few steps from our door, scenic views reachable minutes away through biking, and a pleasing climate in the uplands an hour away from our barangay.

This year I had the opportunity to revisit NSJ Farm and was amazed to witness the developments being made in preparation for its opening. We trekked around the forest and explored the cave-like boulders which are being cleared so visitors can enter.

Tents are permanently pitched, dirty kitchen prepared, and comfort rooms were built so campers can stay in the area comfortably. We felt at home during our overnight stay in the area a week ago: area was well-lit, beddings were clean, and water was overflowing.

Here are some photos of our visit. You may hover over each image to read its description.

I circled the forest thrice, as far as I can remember. My first visits felt difficult, though the terrain wasn't that steep. The third one was a breeze. I could tease the people who were with me then. ;)

What made the tour rewarding was the opportunity to discover these forest wonders which are of different shapes, colors, and textures. Though I could hardly identify each of them (kind of frustrating), I was able to keep memories of them.

Going through the boulders was the most difficult part of the adventure. Good thing there were no snakes inside! Tito Nestor (the owner) mentioned that a geologist who visited the site had a theory that a huge river ran in this area more than centuries ago.

Additional information about the site can be found here. Our Mrs. Shirley Ison contributed her experience as well (she will be dearly missed!).

Contact me for reservations so I can give you the site's contact number.

LAKBAY-ARAL 2019

2019-07-25T03:06:00.001-07:00

Bayuko Snail immersed in a puddle which accumulated
near the town sign. This spot has become popular
among the locals and the riders.

Last August 23, the Senior High School Students in Santa Maria Integrated High School conducted their tour around different spots in our town. They visited Sweet Nature Farms, MRF Landfill, Coco-a Vanilla Farm, the layby in Laurel, and KM 90. Due to the strong rain the students weren't able to see the lettuce and strawberry plantations below the Rider's Rest Stop in Little Baguio. Due to other appointments, I wasn't able to join them in other destinations. So what I can show here are the highlights of the trip:

Sweet Nature Farms in Macasipac

Sweet Nature Farms raise and sell organic plants. They conduct free TESDA-accredited
trainings for aspiring organic farmers.

Students enjoy the lush greenery and each other's company.

Layby in Laurel

We stopped here for lunch and had rest. I joined the students who were curious to discover the surroundings. We saw a snail, caterpillar, and unfamiliar plants.

One of the vibrant wilds which grow in the uplands.

For free?

HUMSS Students with Ma'am Narlie Silva had their moment in front of the sign.

KM 90 in Little Baguio

We headed to Little Baguio to catch a glimpse of frequented spots.

Students enjoying the place.

Pools are available too!

Here's a brief video about our experience. Thanks to our enthusiastic vloggers!

Coco-a Vanilla Farm Visit

2019-07-11T21:00:00.000-07:00

The Association of Retired Teachers in Santa Maria, Laguna celebrated Ma'am Shirley Ison's birthday at Coco-a Vanilla Farm and I joined in! We enjoyed the meal and the relaxing ambience. The themed design and great facilities added satisfaction to our experience.

If you are looking for a quiet yet instagrammable place to stay, better try this place. It provides a rural feel for those who want to destress after a tiring week. The organic garden also offers different veggies you can avail. The 24-hour stay costs 2500 Php ( with 3 meals and 2 snacks ). A short stay for two people costs 1500 with free breakfast.

Agritourism Sites in Santa Maria, Laguna

2019-07-11T20:39:00.000-07:00

Right now we have different organic farms which are beginning to accommodate visitors and consumers in and outside our municipality: Coco-a Vanilla Farm (Brgy. Bubucal), Sweet Nature Farms (Brgy. Macasipac), Angeles Sustainable Farm (Brgy. Talangka), and Riders' Rest Stop, a restaurant-farm located in New Little Baguio. I'm planning to create and share posts showing our experiences, produce, and rates.

For now, here are few photos from each of the locations for us to enjoy viewing:

Coco-a Vanilla Farm - Brgy. Tungkod

Angeles Sustainable Farm - Brgy. Talangka
IG:@angeles_farm

Riders' Rest Stop Strawberry Farm - Brgy. Cueva

Sweet Nature Farms - Brgy. Macasipac

Rainy Moment in Poblacion Dos

2019-07-11T20:20:00.000-07:00

Hello! It's been a year since I posted here. Sorry for the busyness ;) Just tried shooting outside while it's raining. Since the site could hardly contain huge amount of photos, I have started embedding video clips from my Youtube account.

I loved bathing in the rain when I was a kid. Couldn't wait to get out with my friends when it started pouring out. At times we would make paper boats and let them flow along the flooded street. Fun Times! But there's one thing I hated when it began to rain during my schooldays: walking across the flooded street and going home with my wet shoes and socks.

Meeting the Dumagats

2018-06-21T01:37:00.001-07:00

We climbed uphill to reach the indigenous kababayans' dwelling place in Sitio Kamagong roadside. When we heard an old woman's loud voice, we were hesitant because we thought she was angry. It was Lola Marcelina, a pure Dumagat, in her normal voice.

When we entered their silong (basement), I could hardly explain the reason we came due to the struggle to catch my breath. She said, "Aba'y magpahinga ka muna bago ka sumagot (take a rest before explaining the intention why you came here)." I was quite relieved sensing her accommodation. Her daughter-in-law greeted us as well and gave a brief introduction of who they were. When I asked her about which tribe they belonged, she pointed us to Lola, saying, "Dumagat 'yan."

Lola went on sharing her background, way of living and struggles as a katutubo (native) living among modernized strangers. Poverty was the main challenge they face; there were times that they just add salt on their rice. Still, they were thankful and content with what they have.

She admitted that she was observant with the people approaching her and wondered why many were interested to know about their culture. Yet being generous with the information she provided, the conversation went on. She was grateful with the people helping them.

We asked if we could take photos of them before we left. I saw the delight in her eyes when she said, "Jamming tayo," as she invited her grandchildren to sit on a long wooden bench for a family portrait. She removed the handkerchief covering her 80-something year-old hair for it to be seen in the picture. When she saw her own image on the camera screen, she reacted, "Ang ganda ko pala." Promising to give them a copy when we come back, we requested that they prepare a song and dance number in their own tradition. And yes, they were excited to see us again to celebrate their cultural identity as well as our newfound friendship.

QuezLag Road Adventure

2018-06-21T00:08:00.000-07:00

[A repost from Lensplorations, my secondary blog.]

Clear, flowing waters: a must-see attraction in the mountains of Quezon.

In Laguna Day of 2017, we headed towards unplanned destinations along Laguna-Quezon upland border. Let me share to you what we have experienced and discovered:

1. Interview with an 86-Year-Old Japanese Occupation Survivor

I won`t forget Lola Fidela`s Japanese occupation stories. When our tire got flat on our way to Little Baguio, we were directed to a vulcanizing station beside her house. We haven't had breakfast that time, so we headed to the store, which her family owns. While we were waiting, she arrived and sat with us which gave us the opportunity to ask her about her background. Along with the list of surnames she`s related with, she shared her dark experiences in the hands of the Japanese soldiers which included the following details:

their brief imprisonment in Gabaldon Building in Santa Maria Elementary School (located in front of our compound).
their ways of finding a shelter the moment they heard about the soldiers' coming. Upon coming back, they would discover that the uncooked rice was gone and some household items were damaged.
the dread she felt when she saw a file of boys marching with their hands tied while heading to a place where they would dig holes. That time, she thought that they were digging the areas where they would be buried.
the sight and sound of planes targetting Santa Maria, Laguna's plains with bombs.

Note: When I learned that she`s 86 years old, I mentioned about what we do in our local historical committee, borrowed a pen and paper and abruptly shifted the discussion towards history. Haha.

2. The Unexpected Hike

When we arrived at Little Baguio, Ate Rachel welcomed us into her cute rustic house and offered us coffee. While chatting, she suggested that we climb the mountain located a few steps near her house. "Madali lang yun akyatin," she said, while describing us how the view looked like from atop. We didn`t expect how hard the hike would be, with all the slippery mud, thorns and steep terrain which awaited us. I gave in due to curiosity of what we would find there, knowing that I wasn't wearing the right hiking attire. The entire adventure lasted for two hours.

3. Pinlak Falls Dip

We weren't prepared as we got here as well, so we just borrowed clothes from the lady whom we gave our entrance fee. Because we weren't that familiar with the place, we went through the wrong entrance. We didn't know that there were two resorts existing in the same area--one with the small pools and the other was the falls itself. So while we were having fun, a lady approached us and asked us to pay them. We went back to the lady whom we first approached and got our fees back. I just paid her for the clothes she lend us.

4. Sidlakan Adventure Campsite

A place where you could relax + enjoy the instagrammable facilities and views. A 24-hour stay costs 1500 Php. I thank the owner for letting us explore the place and take photos of their site. Looking forward to bringing friends for an overnight stay here.

Surprising Sights at Seven Up Hills

2017-04-18T04:50:00.002-07:00

I am not used to waking up at early mornings. Last week I was pulled out of bed by my jogging buddies for a walk toward our hometown's hiking hub -- Seven Up Hills. It was called as such due to seven ascending slopes you have to go through before you get to see the rewarding sight, the bird's-eye view of Santa Maria, Laguna.

I was thankful I was able to go with them even if the activity caused me to be incapacitated due to muscle pain the day after. We saw unusual sights we never saw before: thick fog covering rice fields of varying hues, Kakawate tree which brings the cherry-blossom feels, two blue-colored birds resting on electric wires and a helicopter going somewhere (a vehicle sighting like this is very unusual in the province).

Wonderland!

Thick fog touches the golden grains. I wonder why there were leaves aligned on the side of the road.

Mom and daughter going to field! How early!

A rewarding sight! Early photographer catches the fog!

My cousin discovered this tree. As we drew near, we heard the buzzing of the bees.

Lied on the floor to get this shot. #CherryBlossomPH

Surprised to see this kind of bird! Hoping they won't leave this area.

Highlights of the Lakan & Binibining Marilag Coronation Night

2017-04-06T20:40:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to our newly crowned Lakan and Binibining Marilag!

I can only post a few pictures due to the site's limited storage.

EXPERIENCING ANILAG 2017

2017-03-09T18:00:00.003-08:00

I'm a big fan of cultural diversity so I made sure I'd be able to take a peek at ANILAG FESTIVAL. Here is where you'll be able to appreciate a few of the differences on how Lagunenses express artistry, make a living and appreciate their past. Each booth, dance presentation and featured product teaches something about what matters to a specific locality.

To be able to get neat and better captures, one needs to go early to the venue (Laguna Capitol Grounds). During late afternoon to nighttime, the place gets crowded and you'll gather photobombers as you take selfies and the like.

The day I visited the event, I was able to get to the booths, join my kababayan contestants during Street Dance parade, and check the food stalls.

BOOTHS
Truly a must-see and must-capture attractions among the rest of the festival features. Ranging from elegant (Lumban) to rustic (Kalayaan), each of them features its unique products, tourist spots and rich heritage.

Town's progress and agricultural flourishing were both portrayed in Santa Maria's booth.

LB's finest, Buko Pie and Mernel's have always beautified their corner.

Lumban displays their embroidered gowns.

CALAUAN. I love the hues and geometry applied here.

Liliw sells footwears inside their booth.

This man happened to be standing in front of Victoria's booth.

Arrived at a particular booth housing the "Pinaka" crop and fishery products in Laguna:

This Mickey Mouse-shaped, wild eggplant variety cannot be eaten.

PRODUCTS
If you are fond of Liliw footwears or Sta. Maria's crop edibles or even Victoria's Kinulob na Itik, visiting this event saves you time and money (fare) because here is where you can find each of the town's main products.

Luisiana's products.

STREET DANCE
The fusion of noise, colors and movements is what makes this activity a GREAT ART.

Anilag stands for Ani ng Laguna. This year's theme: Handog ng Laguna sa Lawa ng Pag-asa.

Touring Around the Integrated Municipal Hall Annex Building

2017-01-13T04:19:00.001-08:00

The three-storey Integrated Municipal Hall Annex Building has opened since January 9, 2017, its date of inauguration. Through the leadership and efforts of Mayor Tony Carolino, we all see this place established and open to offer services to the people of Santa Maria, Laguna. Come, let's see what's inside.

The Youth and Adolescent Center serves as a business permit licensing office for a while.

ONE TOWN, ONE PRODUCT STORE PASALUBONG CENTER

Products made in Santa Maria by Santa Maria residents are being sold here. Store opens at 10AM.

Edible items are available!

Santa Maria Coconut products can be bought as well.

Souvenir items :)

Buy my postcards, hehe.

Konsehal Allan looking for shirts.

Kapitana Imelda of J. Santiago is the one assigned today.

Let's see how 2nd floor looks like...

Now, the third floor.

Back to where we all began: the main entrance.

Inauguration details were published on Mayor Carolino's Facebook page and on Tribune Post:

See the rest of the photos on Mayor Tony Carolino's Facebook account.

Tribune Post vol. 8 no. 39
Ding Lopez Saraza's Facebook Account

Sabas San Pascual's Diary Entry: April 18, 1930

2016-10-16T04:30:00.000-07:00

Notice that He used 'C' instead of 'K' in some words and had fragmented statements. These were corrected for greater readability. Some structures were retained so as not to mess-up with the thoughts he wanted to express. Question marks were put after uncertain words.

Abril 18, 1930

Mahal na Araw

Biyernes Santo ay may ulan pati ang Huwebes pa at may lamig o ginaw at kumulog no araw ng Miyerkules Santo sa bandang Timog at ang buwang ito ay ng sumikat ay may tuhog(?) na bituin. A kinse ng buwang ito ay nabaril ko ang baboy ni Geneo Ure--at ng hapong iyon ay nabalita na si Jacob at ang Presidente sa Mabitac na si Fernan Ilano ay nagpanuntok at nasugatan ang Presidente sa mukha. Nauna naman dito ang pakikipagtalo ng Komandante Velasquez at L. Real sa Bario ng Talangka tungkol sa pagkasira ng halaman ni Pepeng ng mga kalabaw at mahigpit kong
magpabayad kung kaya binakod ng barrio. Naglibing ng Biyernes Santo ay inabot ng ulan at ng maglabas ay mga 11:30 ng gabi dahil sa pag-aantabay sa pagsikat ng buwan.

Nang Linggo ay hindi rin nakapagsalubong dahil sa ulan at hindi tuloy natapos o nayari ang sulubangan (?), maulan at halos ay katulad ng bagong magbubukid sa tubigan. Ang pari ay si Padre Gabriel at saka isang bagong dating na Kastila rin, batang-bata.

Exploring MARILAG's History: Objects from the Past

2016-10-06T01:31:00.005-07:00

A year ago, Ate Narlie, high school teacher and cultural education student of Letran Calamba, invited me to accompany her as she does cultural mapping. I was clueless of the interesting discoveries which awaited me. On that day, went to different houses to search for old things and documents, interviewed the not-so-young kababayans and looked at the old pictures.

Here are some spoils of memories from the past:

I'm holding a portrait of our former mayor, Benjamin Real. The location of the shot was inside our old municipal building.

Again, I have with me an old model of Canon camera owned by Mr. Ruben Vidal, a resident of Bgy. 2, Santa Maria, Laguna

Old teachers in front of an old building in SMES. At the center (with left hand on his hip)
was Mr. Fidel Real, the District Supervisor.

A list of families who originated from our town.

An old phonograph owned by the late Oscar Real. We used to play inside this old house when we were young.

Mr. Oscar and Mely Real's stuff.

Former Mayor Benjamin Real standing beside President Marcos.

Windows to the Past: Mr. Dan Real welcomed us in his abode and showed us
a handful of old pictures stacked in his room.
Most of the pictures posted on this entry were from his collection.

Santa Maria, Laguna Throughout History

2016-10-04T23:42:00.001-07:00

Writer: Atty. Macario Carolino

Himno ng Santa Maria

2016-10-04T23:11:00.002-07:00

Words: Shirley Ison

Music: Sabas San Pascual

Sunset Scenes in Santa Maria

2016-08-08T20:59:00.000-07:00

When compared to comets and planets which rarely appear, this familiar phenomenon is taken for granted by some. "Lagi namang may ganyan," "Bukas...sa isang araw...sa isang linggo...sa 2090. There will always be a time." So let's take this moment to treasure this gift. Aren't sunsets incredible?

If one wants to appreciate Santa Maria in all its beauty, he/she must go for a walk during this time of the day. Here are some spots where I felt helpless not to stop to wonder before this creation which slowly fades before our very eyes.

Location: Talangka, near Seven Up Hills

Location: Coralan

Of Afternoon Bike Ride and Road Developments

2016-02-13T22:46:00.002-08:00

Biking around town at early mornings and late afternoons has become my pastime and way to recharge. These moments in a day are what photographers call the "golden hours". Here is where sceneries look dramatic due to the lessened intensity of sun's brightness.

Having decided to see the rice fields in Talangka led me to revisit its road known to be constructed. To my surprise, I noticed that the once rough highway has already been cemented! Oh, wow! :)

The surrounding was delighting. The setting sun, tangerine sky, layers of mountain ranges, vast rice fields, swaying shrubs, cool breeze plus a sight of biking people make it a perfect setting for those who want to be refreshed and relaxed.

Enjoy these sights as you journey with me:

Biking pa more! :)

Beauty in 360. Windmills are seen on your right; rice fields on your left.

Silhouette-y

Caught this kid dancing in the middle of the road. She posed the moment I requested to take a picture of her. After entering her house, she
came out and called my name. Cool!

This sight's a bonus.

Young girls on the road.

More lovely when there's rice planted.

For now, you may do cartwheels here. Days will come and

it will be filled with establishments (McDonald's?) and speeding cars.

P'wede ring bilaran ng palay. Hehe.

I'm not sure how this road is called. Good thing I kept this file I captured 3 years ago.

REVISITING CUEVA

2015-09-29T03:00:00.002-07:00

Hooray, it's Santa Maria, Laguna Day! A perfect opportunity to update this site!

This day, I went back to Brgy. Cueva to visit Mr. Nestor Jumawan's Farm. While traveling uphill, we were greeted by this newly-built bungalow. Looks good, right?

Traveling has become a breeze because huge percentage of the road has been cemented. Construction is ongoing, including farm-to-market road (Famy-Sta. Maria).

I had time for relaxation upon arriving at NSJ Farm. Thankful for free travel, free accommodation and free lunch.

Beauty. Patterns. Incredible Hues. Due to busyness, we fail to see and appreciate them. Spending time alone has benefits. This place is one of the best should you decide to pursue solitude.

Faces of Bb. Marilag 2015 Coronation Night

2015-04-16T20:58:00.000-07:00

Bb. Marilag 2015 Coronation Night was held at Santa Maria Town Plaza last April 16, 2015, third night of this year's MARILAG Festival.

Bb. Marilag 2015

Kimberly Anne Crucillo (Bagong Pook)
Bb. Marilag Tourism
Charlenemagne Geronimo (Poblacion Dos)

Bb. Marilag - 1st Runner Up

Jimtel Ann Sardin (Macasipac)

Bb. Marilag - 2nd Runner Up
Michelle Almanza (Bagumbayan)

Bb. Marilag - 3rd Runner Up

Hiyas Shellica Villegas (Coralan)

FIVE Uplands Sights That are Worth Rediscovering

2015-02-20T00:58:00.000-08:00

It's cold and rainy these days and it's better for some to stay at home during weekends. But let me disturb you wherever you are by showing a few photos from our visit at Brgy. Cueva and J. Santiago last Chinese New Year. You might consider packing your bags and bringing your friends for a shivery adventure that's worth posting on Facebook. Whether you've visited this place for the nth time or planning a roadtrip for the first time, you will never fail enjoying the following attractions:

1. Blooming trees and flowers
There's no spring season in our country, but look at those trees! The surrounding typifies new beginnings.

Location: NSJ Farm

Bright lavender flowers clothe the roadsides. This isn't the only place where these adorning creatures can be found.

Location: 98 Falls, Brgy. Laurel

This.Looks. Surreal.

Location: 98 Falls, Brgy. Laurel

2. Creek leading towards the falls
One needs to walk a few steps before arriving at 98 Falls. One great thing about visiting this place during rainy days is seeing a huge volume of water flowing from the mountains way down the streams.

Location: 98 Falls, Brgy. Laurel

3. Teepee-like storage area built of layered, filled-with-something sacks
I regularly pass through this place whenever we travel uphill. I saw this unique thing upon coming back this month.

Brgy. Cueva

4. Pine Trees
These trees have been here through decades. The difference is the fact that you may convince yourself that you're in Baguio or Tagaytay because cold weather is at its peak. The feeling of coldness is above the level the people in the lowlands experience.

NSJ Farm

Welcome to Narnia!

NSJ Farm

5. Breathtaking views from the top.

Brgy. J. Santiago

Brgy. Cueva

Of Hearts' Day, Basil Plants and Tiny Cobweb

2015-02-16T20:27:00.002-08:00

It's drizzling outside and yet I risked riding the bicycle to visit my basil plants situated in a nearby barangay.

What a great way to be reminded of God's love this early morning of Feb. 14!
I saw this rainbow while cycling beside the fields. Taken from my iPhone.

It's been a year since I let ate Mercy adopt my basil plant. Now there are at least 20
plants that have sprouted along her yard. Woohoo.

Now, there's a nursery under this leaf! More or less 40 li'l spiders have been born here.

Brought home some agri stuff after eating breakfast.

I'm planning to collect herbs and let someone cultivate it. I guess its safer than worrying whether it's growing or dying under my care. There is so much to learn in this area.

As I wave goodbye, here's a wonderful reminder for all of us:

NSJ Farm...a Piece of Eden Over the Meadows

2015-01-28T23:46:00.000-08:00

THE NSJ FARM in Barangay Cueva, Sta. Maria, Laguna: an ideal site for campers, trekkers, picnic lovers, forest enthusiasts, nature admirers, or for those who just want to relax and enjoy the fine weather of the place, love the scent of the pine trees and wade in the clean water of the stream, lost in the forest, feel the enchanting beauty of the caves, touch the latex of the rubber trees...enjoyed in just one day!

Mr. Nestor Jumawan owns the place.

Contributor: Mrs. Shirley Ison

Black and White Photo Challenge

2014-12-09T23:29:00.002-08:00

Some of you may be aware with the not-so-ordinary photo challenge which has become popular on Facebook. The rule for this trend is to post a black and white photo yourself then challenge some of your social media friends to do the same. It's been a month since I received this challenge from my good friend, Mrs. Leilanni Avecilla-Hamm. I compiled all five photos (which are supposed to be separately posted each day) I took from different barangays in our hometown:

Location: Brgy. Bagumbayan

Location: Family Compound

Location: Brgy. Talangka

Location: Brgy. Bagumbayan

Location: Brgy. Macasipac