A Life Less Ordinary

Sapa Diaries

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Sun, 24 May 2026 11:37:08 +0000

Literally a city in the fog because of its cold temperature. One of the best travel destinations I’ve ever been to, and another unforgettable birthday trip. Sapa has a mini-Europe feel, with its striking blend of French colonial architecture and stilt houses.

My favorite moment was watching the sunset over Sapa Lake with Ham Rong Mountain as the backdrop. It was breathtaking, peaceful, and relaxing. I stood there thinking how blessed I was to be in that place at that very moment. TYL!

I also enjoyed the scenic ride up to the mountains and got to try the Alpine Coaster.

I sat in the park and watched the quaint cafés light up during the night, transforming the area into a vibrant and lively place.

I originally planned to skip the Sun World Fansipan Legend tour because I wanted to experience it with my son someday. As it turned out, it was also closed for two weeks for renovation.

The staff at Sapa Center Hotel were incredibly friendly, and one of them even gave me a warm cup of tea before I left. See you again, beautiful Sapa.

My First International Marathon in Ha Long

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Sun, 17 May 2026 11:25:22 +0000

I signed up for the Ha Long Bay Heritage Marathon for the scenic views, as the route looked so unique and picturesque. It is also Vietnam’s first and only marathon to receive the World Athletics Label Road Race. A few days before my flight, I had a cold and cough, and I feared I might not be able to fly out for the race. But since everything was already booked and I had done ample training, I decided to push through with the plan. A night before heading to Ha Long, I was shivering due to my condition and couldn’t taste my food, even though I badly needed to carbo-load. I felt a little better the next morning while in transit to Ha Long from Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The hotel where I stayed in the Bai Chay area had beautiful views. I could see the international cruise ships and rock formations from my window. The room was very spacious and worth what I paid for, except that you had to wait at least 30 minutes for hot water in the shower. It was understandable due to the cold weather, and something I will remember for next time.

The Grab rider didn’t know where the marathon venue was, so I had to take two rides to reach the race expo to pick up my bib. The first rider dropped me off somewhere, saying he wasn’t familiar with the location (via Google Translate). Other locals also couldn’t point us in the right direction when the rider asked around. It made me wonder how the marathon is so popular outside Vietnam. I left the expo early when I couldn’t find my name on the list for the 42KM runners. Only a few English names were displayed. I hope the organizers could include foreign runners’ names next time. I walked around to grab something to eat, then headed back to my hotel. I tried to rest as much as I could since it was race day the next morning.

It was very cold at 4 a.m. (at least for me), so I wore my race jacket until around the 21st kilometer. My initial goal during training was at least a 5:30 finish time, but with my condition, I just wanted to finish before the 6:30 cutoff time. I crossed the finish line still very proud of myself at 6:08, after battling colds and fatigue from around the 24th kilometer onward.

Indeed, the views are undeniably beautiful, especially the section where you run through the tunnel. The route was not crowded, and the cold watermelon along the course saved me from exhaustion. Of course, the finish line with the blue carpet and all the cameras had an international feel.

The Ha Long Bay Heritage Marathon was absolutely worth it.

A Sunset Stroll in Hanoi

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Sat, 09 May 2026 09:54:00 +0000

My first morning in Hanoi felt like stepping into a movie. The streets were alive with the sound of scooters, and the smell of food drifting from every corner. I spent the day walking around the city with no real plan, letting the busy sidewalks lead me to Michelin selected Bun Cha Dac Kim for lunch.

I finally tasted the famous Bun cha for the first time. Smoky grilled pork, noodles, and dipping sauce that somehow tasted both comforting and exciting at once. The serving was very generous for the price I paid. I continued to walk around until I ended up in St. Joseph's Cathedral and then to Hoàn Kiếm Lake. I sat on one side of the lake savouring the Roti bread I bought while watching the sunset painted the sky orange and gold. Families sat by the water, couples took photos, and a group of teenagers danced to music near the sidewalks. I quietly watched the city move around me, feeling strangely at peace.

The weather was my favorite part. The sun warmed my skin, but the cold wind brushed against my face just enough to make the walk feel perfect.

As evening came, I found myself in the train street out of curiousity since I always saw it in many vlogs.

I woke up with colds the next morning, so I thought of finding the best pho. I finally tasted the famous pho from a Michelin-starred spot. The warm broth, fresh herbs, and tender beef eased my condition. I felt a little better after savouring the soup. This was why people traveled so far just for the food.

Hanoi felt busy yet calm, old yet alive. Before leaving the hotel to go to my next destination, I already knew one thing — this was a place I wanted to come back to again someday.

My Racecation in ILOILO

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Sun, 29 Jun 2025 11:13:00 +0000

I had always dreamed of visiting Iloilo City. I’d heard stories about its Spanish-era houses, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Miag-ao Church, and its rich food culture. But this wasn’t just a casual vacation—I had signed up for the 2nd Iloilo Dinagyang Heritage Marathon, my first one outside Manila. Excited and slightly anxious, I boarded my early Saturday morning flight from Manila, with my running shoes packed and my playlist ready.

As soon as we landed, I went straight to SM City Iloilo to claim my race kit. Then I tried Deco's Original La Paz Batchoy, located near my accommodation, before checking in. In the afternoon, I headed to Plaza Libertad in search of Roberto's Siopao. I was excited to try it since it was highly recommended.

Then came the day of the marathon.

I arrived at the starting line before 12 a.m. at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol grounds, surrounded by runners of all kinds—seasoned pros, running clubs, and tourists like me. The excitement in the air was electric. When the horn blew, I started running slowly, just trying to find my pace.

As I passed through the city, I saw it in a new way. The heritage houses, the cheering locals, the cool river breeze—it felt like the city was running with me.

At kilometer 35, my legs were screaming, but my spirit kept pushing. The last five kilometers were especially exhausting. It was a huge relief when I finally saw the finish line. Crossing that line was more than just a win—I couldn’t believe I had finished another marathon, and in a city that was unfamiliar to me.

After the race, I found a quiet spot to enjoy my post-race meal, with my medal still around my neck and a bowl of pancit molo in front of me. I was sore, tired, and happy. That day, I didn’t just run a marathon—I ran into a city that gave me stories and strength.

Once I had rested, I went out to explore the city further. I walked along the Iloilo River Esplanade all the way to La Paz Public Market, where I treated myself to another warm bowl of batchoy and some chicken inasal.

Every moment in the city felt welcoming—like I wasn’t just visiting, but truly being embraced.

I came to Iloilo as a marathoner.

I left with deeper realizations: that every city has its own charm, and within it, people doing their best to thrive and survive, one day at a time.

A Birthday to Remember: Exploring Taiwan!

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 10:27:00 +0000

As I sat by the airplane window, I remember that it had been over ten years since I last traveled internationally, and now, I am finally on my way to Taiwan with my son. A mix of excitement and gratefulness filled my heart.

It is a privilege to embark on this journey after Taiwan announced visa-free entry for Filipinos. This opportunity made our trip even more special, as we could now experience the country without the hassle of visa applications. More than that, this trip is a gift to myself—my long-awaited adventure on my birthday. This is also my son's first international trip.

As soon as we landed at Taoyuan International Airport, I was captivated by the blend of modern convenience and cultural richness. The efficiency of the airport and its overall vibe impressed me. I scanned the crowd, looking for my sister. She had been living in Taiwan for work for almost 12 years. Stepping outside, we were greeted by the cold air—it was November 2024.

Our first stop was the bustling streets of Ximending where our hotel was located. Neon lights flashed in every direction, and we wandered through the streets took some photos and look for a cafe where we can eat.

The next day, we explored Pingxi district. We visited Shifen Old Street, known for its railway tracks running through the town and its famous sky lanterns. While we were there, we picked a big lantern, and wrote our wishes before releasing it. We also visited Shifen Waterfalls, often called the 'Niagara Falls of Taiwan.' For me, it was one of the best waterfalls I have ever seen.

Of course, no trip to Taipei would be complete without experiencing its food. At Ximending night market, we tasted dishes we had never tried before— juicy xiaolongbao, the infamous stinky tofu, sweet potato balls, and bubble tea. We sat in one of benches and enjoyed everything we brought.

On our second day, we visited Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and walked around Taipei to see Taipei 101 before having lunch at Ichiran for ramen.

We went on food trips on our last day in Hsinchu City.

As our trip came to an end, I reflected on our journey. Taiwan had welcomed us with open arms, offering us unforgettable sights, incredible food, and warm-hearted people. We had navigated the metro, and embraced every new experience with an open heart. It was great that my sister was with us during our trip. Even though she was not used to commuting in the city, she can speak broken Mandarin whenever we need directions.

As we boarded our flight home, I smiled to myself. This was only the beginning. I had rekindled my love for international travel, and I knew I wouldn’t wait another ten years before my next adventure with my son, or family.

What They Didn't Tell You About Roty Peaks Ridge Camp

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 11:12:00 +0000

The main challenge is getting to the camp. If you don’t have a car service, the only available transportation is a habal-habal (motorcycle). You will also need a habal-habal guide to accompany you on the way up. It is important to contact the dispatcher in advance to book your ride, tour, or stay. They will not allow you to enter the camp unless your habal-habal driver is affiliated with Roty Peaks.

For contact information, it’s best to visit: https://www.rotypeaks.com/getting-here/

For someone like me, who is from neighborhood CDO, I initially assumed that the journey would be easy. Yes, I'm used to the mountainside, as most of my childhood was spent in Bukidnon, near Impasug-ong. However, I never expected the bumpy ride that lasted almost an hour. The road was steep, muddy in some parts, and covered with big rocks. Then there was the unfinished bridge—left incomplete due to political issues in the province, according to the guide. You could easily fall if you don’t hold on tightly.

I was glad I only had my sling bag and didn’t have to worry about carrying anything else. Thank goodness I decided not to bring my son or my mom on that trip. That was the part vloggers didn’t share online.

Let’s talk about Insta-worthy photos. There’s no doubt that Roty Peaks is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to. The breathtaking view was a welcome relief after a strenuous ride.

I spotted the giant swing and sat there for a few minutes to fully immerse myself in the scenery. It was a great spot overlooking Mt. Kulago. I wandered around, checking out the accommodation huts they offer. Since there’s no restaurant in the camp, you’ll need to bring everything you need if you plan to stay overnight.

Four hours later, I decided to head home, as the rider warned me that it usually starts raining early in the afternoon.

It was a short trip, but I was completely exhausted. I wouldn’t go back until the road conditions improve.

Inked by Tradition: My First Tattoo Experience in Kalinga

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 10:27:00 +0000

My solo trip to Kalinga in November 2023 was one of my most unforgettable travels to date. It wasn’t just about meeting Whang-Od, a celebrated Filipino tattoo artist. She is renowned for her mastery of traditional Kalinga tattooing, known as batok, a technique that uses hand-tapped methods instead of modern tattoo machines. At over 100 years old, she's a cultural icon. Getting inked by her is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It was also a chance to discover another beautiful province in the Cordillera region.

It was a day after my birthday when I traveled to Kalinga. Of course, it was my first time, and my only guide was some YouTube vlogs of people who had been there. The journey started with an 8- to 9-hour bus ride from Manila to Bontoc, Mountain Province. As far as I know, there’s no direct bus from Manila to Kalinga. From Bontoc, it was another 2- to 3-hour jeepney ride to Tinglayan.

The road to the jump-off point is considered one of the most dangerous roads in the Philippines. It twisted through sharp mountain curves, with sheer drops on one side and unstable cliffs on the other. From there, it was another 30-minute motorcycle ride (locally called habal-habal) to Buscalan. Finally, we reached the end of the road, and it was time to trek. You will need to register and hire a local guide before the trek. The hike took about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace, to reach the Butbut tribe village where Apo Whang-Od lives.

The scorching heat of noontime greeted me when I arrived but it didn't stop me from my anticipation of seeing Whang Od.

After I settled and had my lunch, the tattooing session began as I chose another traditional design. This time, it was done by one of the tattoo artists in the village. I was fortunate that Whang-Od was also tattooing that day, so I lined up to get the three dots, her signature tattoo.

The tattooing process was both painful and mesmerizing. She tapped the ink into my skin using the same thorn and bamboo stick from the previous session. Each tap seemed to echo with the rhythm of the mountains. The pain was sharp and bloody, but I didn’t mind at all, understanding that her vision had already deteriorated at her age. Afterward, I felt deeply connected to the ancient art and the culture it represents.

The trek back to the jump-off point the next morning felt longer than before. However, it was still enjoyable as the morning mist blanketed the beautiful mountains. While on the habal-habal, as the driver was slowing down, we were suddenly surprised by dogs that ran toward us. I tried to lift my legs, but I didn’t notice another dog on the left, and it bit me. I told the driver immediately, and he said he would contact a local healer since there was no clinic or hospital in the area to have my leg checked or administer an anti-rabies shot.

The healer used a small tube to suck the blood above the bite to prevent the rabies from spreading, if any. I knew I needed to go to a hospital quickly, but the problem was that we had to wait for the mini-bus passing through from another town. It took at least three hours before the bus arrived, and it was already full of passengers. I had no option but to sit on the stairs. According to the locals, that was the only trip for the day.

I considered going to Baguio from Bontoc to hopefully get a vaccine there, but by the time I arrived, it was already 7 PM because the bus had many stops in Benguet. I couldn’t find a hospital or clinic in Baguio, so I had dinner and then took a bus back to Manila.

Twenty-three hours later, I received at least ten shots of anti-rabies and anti-tetanus combined. I felt paralyzed afterward but finally relieved.

For me,the journey to Buscalan was more than just about getting a tattoo; it was an experience of immersing myself in breathtaking landscapes, overcoming obstacles, and forging a profound connection with the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.

Who says SAGADA is only for the brokenhearted?

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Sat, 23 Mar 2024 17:19:00 +0000

Many people visit Sagada not just for its beautiful scenery but also for its perceived healing properties, particularly for individuals experiencing heartbreak. However, this wasn't the case for me. I embarked on a solo trip to Sagada in November 2022, shortly after my birthday.

The lengthy 15-hour journey was well worth it, as Sagada felt like a different world altogether. The weather was perfect—neither too cold nor too warm—and it didn't rain at all during my short stay. Of course, I made sure to visit some of the tourist spots I had only seen in YouTube vlogs. The walking tour took me to the old St. Mary The Virgin church, the hanging coffins site, and we even passed through a little river and cave on our way back to town.

Learning about the history of the hanging coffins and the tradition of shouting during burial ceremonies was fascinating. Originally, people shouted to scare away bad animals, but today, shouting with all your heart in the mountains of Sagada has become a way for people experiencing emotional distress or heartbreak to release their feelings. In that moment, I gained a deeper understanding of why Sagada holds such significance for many.

Around 5am in Marlboro hills.

Kaman Utek or Blue Soil. The soil appears blue due to the presence of copper sulfate, a mineral that gives it its distinctive color.

The Zoom Year

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Thu, 31 Dec 2020 12:14:00 +0000

The eruption of Taal volcano in January was already a signal towards a challenging year. Who would have thought? We're all caught off guard with the lockdown announcement due to COVID-19. From merely four patients in March to thousands and people dying every day. Businesses closed, lost jobs and frontliners crying out to STAY HOME.

Zoom became an instant medium for everyone not just for business but more so to move on in our everyday lives. We're able to secure families, learn a new hobby, connect with our loves ones, listen to inspirational stories, attend classes, celebrate milestones, e-meetings and work from the comforts of our home.

While it helped us in many ways to continue our work online, it has given us the ability to connect more in real life. TIME for ourselves and the people who matter to us.

There's also a realization that each individual is equal whoever you are and wherever you may be.

We became kinder.

Learn to appreciate the value of health, life insurance and savings.

The blue skies and each growing plant in our home garden brought us a different joy.

We've posted a lot of our throwback photos and beach vacations while imagining the day when can finally travel again.

We keep on praying for this pandemic to end.

Zoom in. Still, 2020 is a Good year.

I am a Marathoner

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Wed, 30 Dec 2020 05:37:00 +0000

A full marathon is every runner's dream. It wasn't for me at first until I saw a random post in IG about the Dream Marathon. The story of each dreamer encouraged me to join and the fact that I will be running along first and second time marathoners.

A few weeks into the training program, found myself enjoying the journey and always looking forward to Sunday LSDs. Met a lot of new and experienced runners and running buddies turned good friends. Bulls of High Street was born.

Drawing close to race day, Taal volcano erupted. It has surprised everyone. Then, the change of venue to Clark, Pampanga from Filinvest City in Muntinlupa. But, we didn't stop running.

Twenty two weeks of training, Taal ashfall, plus Covid -19. Still, we showed up.

It is like getting to 21KM through 32KM to realize you will make it.

It is picking yourself back up a hundred times when it feels like someone smashed your feet to smithereens and you're running out of steam.

It is putting a smile on your face and a sigh of relief while you think of what you've been through just to get to the last 200 meters and you can see the banner waiting for you at the finish line.

February 16, 2020

Clark, Pampanga

Bib# 0515

42.195KM

06:55

The Bull Runner Sun Life Dream Marathon 2020 finisher

A Decade of Love

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 23:50:00 +0000

Ah it's been a decade of sharing a life less ordinary stories to you all. Cheers! A lot has happened in the past 10 years since this page was born and we're now facing a very challenging time. Some maybe hoping for the year 2020 to end while having coffee in their balcony or in a little corner of their home turned office right now.

But for someone like me who's been through a lot in past and survived, all I can say is: this too shall pass and you'll look back years from now feeling grateful and proud for allowing yourself to experience and accept what life brings you.

Take risks, see places, dream big and be who you are wherever you go and whatever life brings you. Live a Life Less Ordinary. xoxo

#LifeWorkBalance

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Mon, 24 Aug 2020 00:16:00 +0000

#LifeWorkBalance is the #newnormal. Introducing...my mini home office! Yey! As they say, having a job in this time of pandemic is a privilege but I'd say it's a Blessing. Just thankful that I'm still able to help others with the kind of job and business that I have started in 2019. God made me a very busy person last year to prepare a way for me to sustain and nourish it this year. What an amazing God we have. Let's all #stayathome as much as possible for our frontliners and more importantly for our family.

Bulls of High Street first CSR in BGC

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Mon, 22 Jun 2020 10:41:00 +0000

In our own little ways, we're able to give back to the community and most of all to the frontliners/police officers/guards around BGC.

Shoutout to our co-BHS member Arwyn who initiated this event and for our very nice shirts! Team Bulls of High Street for selflessly dedicating your precious time, resources and for simply showing up to help.

Jollibee 1000th store for preparing the orders early given the short notice.

'Til our next CSR!

Keep smiling, Noy

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 17:17:00 +0000

I'm sure you've read about where Duyan Cafe is, how to get there and what's in this another coffee haven in Silay. So for this post, I'd like to give the credit to the person who voluntarily brought me there - Noy RJ.

He was born and race in La Carlota City. We became friends simply because we're office mates back TIP in 2017. When I learned that he's from Bacolod, I told him that I have been wanting to travel to the city of Smiles to see the Ruins and to try their local dishes and pastries. "Ako bahala Day pag napunta ka Bacolod at nagkataon na andun ako." he said with excitement. That conversation led to different topics about life, nick shirts, hugot songs and dreams...and Diego- the orphaned cat he found in the street while heading home one afternoon. As of this writing, Diego is already in a safe, peaceful place. He died in La Carlota just last year. Noy RJ resigned in May 2018 and went back to his hometown where he found the love of his life- Jenna. They are now living happily with their son.

Noy, damo gid salamat sa oras mo (can hear myself trying hard to speak Hiligaynon😂). I am glad to have a friend who's always delighted to see me everytime I'm in Bacolod. I am happy that your heart is very happy now. Keep smiling😊

Photo above is the wooden figure who will greet you as you enter Duyan cafe. Most of the time he's chilling in the balcony observing you as you sip your favorite iced tea or hot coffee. Photo below was taken just across Duyan cafe. Since I am not endorsing the cafe, I told Noy RJ that I wanted to have a photo of the sugarcane plantation instead with the mountain in the background.

Love and light, from the Sugar Capital of the Philippines!

Places of My Year 2019

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 17:15:00 +0000

1. Valencia, Negros Oriental

perimeter fence at the Sulfur vents of Valencia

2. Dumaguete City

something new at Dumaguete boulevard

3. Siquijor

4. Intramuros, Manila

after our baking class at Lyceum CI in Intramuros. Say hi! to Anna.

5. The Fort, BGC

post Sunday morning run near Track 30th

NatGeo Run 2019

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Wed, 08 May 2019 01:35:00 +0000

A run for the world’s oceans.

The 10th Earth Day Run is aimed at raising awareness of plastic pollution and reducing the amount of single-use plastics that enter the world’s oceans.

I only did 5km run twice as training since I was also busy preparing for my graduation at LPU. I knew it wasn't enough but at the same time I really felt ready to unlock my first 10km run ever.

I didn’t even have a target time as I'd like it to be just steady and smooth run. My only aim is to reach the finish line injury-free.

I've walked through the crowd so I can be in the first line of runners as I always do in my previous races. I feel that there's quiet an advantage in doing so and I've read from an article that this can help amateur runners to be more relaxed. A few minutes before the gun start, the host reminded everyone to enjoy the race, push harder in last few miles and imagine oneself crossing that finish line. Every time I feel the cramps in my feet, his words of encouragement would crossed my mind and yes, I keep on imagining that I'll be crossing that finish line with a victorious smile.

It feels great running in a route that's not new to me at all. I tried not to glance at my Fitbit so I won't panic and just run, walk and breath as much as I could. It was already at km7 when I started to feel the pain in my right foot but I've somehow managed to take another km. After 3 water breaks and a series of leg cramps in the last 2 miles, I've crossed the finish line approximately an hour and 10 minutes before the official cut off time,

My Fitbit Charge 2:

14 Apr, 04:30    Run 10.39 kilometers    1:23:44 - Missed to stop the timer at the finish line. I was already refilling my water bottle when I noticed it.

Official time from Runrio:

Rank   Bib No.      Gun Time Chip Time
565     12835         01:21:28     01:20:53

The result isn't bad at all as there were more than 15,000 runners or shall I say eco warriors who pledged and joined the campaign.

No single-use plastics were allowed at the event and they urged all runners to use the reusable water bottles included in every race kit.

Buttercream

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Tue, 07 May 2019 05:44:00 +0000

Last year, I've finally decided to enroll in a Culinary school. It has been one of my dreams before I turned 30. I find it to be a flexible passion to pursue and the opportunities are limitless. I am certain that this is what I want my life to be about.

I think that I got my natural cooking skills from my father. I used to watch him working in the kitchen as we used to have a carenderia or food stall when I was still in high school. He would make a great lunch even if he did not have any pro culinary background. I remember waking up to the sounds of chopping boards as early as 4am almost every day. By that time, I also try to help in slicing spices and veggies before prepping for school.

My joy of learning how to bake started when I was on a holiday in the UK years ago. I would bake the basic scones, pasties and cherry cake as you can read in my previous blogs. The fascination didn't end there as I continued this hobby by making cookies, brownies and caramel bars. I used to sell them to my officemates and received a lot of great feedback.

In 2016, a friend of mine encouraged me to take up culinary course in CCA with him but apparently it didn't happen after he went abroad.

I've also inquired at TESDA office many times but the slot for culinary is always full and they also prioritized undergraduate students which I fairly understand.

Despite all the setbacks, I keep moving forward to accomplishing one of my biggest dreams. It feels great to graduate from one of the Metro's biggest and most advanced culinary school. Thanks to all our mentors and chefs at LPU Culinary Institute, TELUS International University, batchmates, my family especially my howardsome - my ultimate source of inspiration. Above all, thank God for this opportunity to graduate again (my College grad was like XX years ago). The long hours of cooking and baking, crowded train stations, sore legs and everything in between paid off in the end. I know that the toque I've earned is only the beginning of a promising journey.

If dreams don't come true overnight, all you have to do is to hold on to your dreams. I did.

TELUS Family day Fun Run 2019

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Sun, 28 Apr 2019 22:26:00 +0000

A run for the benefit of the Dumagat tribe in Norzagaray and the Quezon City Football club

I decided to sign up for this run after I learned that it's also for others in need. I wasn't able to join in the previous years due to conflict of schedule with my other 5Ks like the Milo Marathon last 2018.

The course is set at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City. For this run, my Fitbit Charge 2 recorded 4.57km at 29:14 which has earned me another finisher's medal.

It's always great to join a run knowing that a portion of your registration will help support a cause. I learned that the Dumagat Tribe is one of the oldest tribes in the country. Aside from lack of food, poor shelter and potable water, there's no electricity in their area. This means that any donation will certainly go a long way.

Looking forward to next year's family day fun run. Thank you TELUS!

Kythe Annual Kite Flying

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Fri, 26 Apr 2019 00:26:00 +0000

Despite my busy culinary school, running, work schedule, and not to mention mommy duties, I was also one of the volunteers during the annual kite flying of Kythe Foundation. Partaking in this kind of activity is not just a social responsibility. For me, it is something personal.

Our time with the children at Kythe was a life changing experience. I got a little teary eyed having to met children who bravely fight cancer and listening to their stories of survival and hope.

One of them was a 6 year old boy who had scars and stitches on his head and face

because he went through several operations. His mom said that he can no longer go to regular school. That's just hard to imagine.

Humility taught us that we don't really need much to live and give. The time that we spend with other people going through any dilemma, especially our children is very important and more than enough to make them feel that they are not alone.

Photo by: rowiewanderlist

Run for Wishes

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Thu, 25 Apr 2019 01:42:00 +0000

A run to help grant wishes of children with critical illness through Make-A-Wish Foundation Philippines.

Just the thought of seeing someone else smile because of something we've given or did is one of the best feeling in the world. How much more if it's for the children? When you're young, what did you wish to have?

Last December 2018, I signed up online thru takbo.ph to run a total of 40KM virtually to help grant wishes of children with critical illness. I'm positive that I can accomplish it as it's during the busiest month of the year when everyone else are busy shopping and partying and for the following reasons:

Less commute time. I don't want to go through long lines at the bus or train stations going home which is always the case on the weeks before and after Christmas. It was fun tracking my run and walk from work to home at some point.

Indulge a little too much. Most of us won't only gain gifts but also gain some weight during the holiday season. For me, running is one good way to stay fit and to burn calories. Had whatever I want to eat without feeling guilty at all as I know that I still have more KMs to cover.

Tracking my run is easy with my Fitbit Ionic as it has a built in GPS that provides map, pace and route information.

Got my entitlements (e-certificate, finisher shirt and medal) a week after completing my target distance.

Thanks to takbo.ph and Make-A-Wish Foundation Philippines.

The Color Run Hero Tour 2018

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 05:53:00 +0000

A run for the benefit of the YES Pinoy Foundation in support of their #IAmSuper campaign.

I am Super is aimed to better equip the nation for disaster resilience and to help out young people and communities, who have been affected, who are being affected, and who will be affected by natural and man-made calamities. - yespinoy.ph

It's known to be the Happiest 5k on the Planet and the largest running series in the world.

Before the gunstart, the Yes Pinoy founder Dingdong Dantes thanked everyone a.k.a heroes and encouraged fast runners to take two turns. It's also a non- timed run so I just enjoyed every pace including the bubble obstacle. Better to wear your sunglasses as they have plenty of color powders throughout the course.

For this run, my Ionic recorded 5.04km in 38:41 min. It's more accurate compared to my last one in Bacolod.

I love the unicorn Finisher's medal. But the best thing is to be able to contribute to the foundation-all for a good cause.

Beach Camping in December

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Thu, 14 Feb 2019 05:42:00 +0000

I heard that there are a lot of places in the country to go beach camping. However, we chose Calatagan in Batangas as it's easier to travel to and only takes a few hours van ride from Manila.

We found this quiet place just near Stilts- a Maldives inspired resort in Batangas. Manuel Uy beach offers the best sunset view as you can see in one of our photos.

There's no room accommodation in the resort so your only option is to sleep in the tent if you wish to stay overnight. We only paid for pitching since we brought our own tent.

Since it's December, I expect it would be cold and windy. I woke up a few times during the night to check the poles and decided to put big rocks in each corner to support the sand stakes that's too light. We survived the night and yes, we'd like to do it again. Any recommendations?

My First 5K in Bacolod

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Mon, 11 Feb 2019 04:27:00 +0000

A run for the benefit of the Holy Infant Nursery Foundation, Inc.

My original plan was to join the Masskara half marathon but my flight was already booked a week earlier. Glad that I found the Dalagan sa Kabataan run scheduled the day after my arrival. It was organized by the UAP Negrense chapter for the benefit of the Holy Infant Nursery Foundation, Inc. It made my trip more interesting not just because of the thought that I'll be running on a new or unfamiliar route but more importantly it is for a cause.

The run started in the Provincial Capitol grounds where the kilometer zero of the province is located. The route took me around the city center of Bacolod where you can see different businesses, inns, malls and museums.

I completed my first 5K run in Bacolod in 26:31 however I was a bit surprised to see my Fitbit Ionic only recorded 3.66km. Oh well, the discrepancy wasn't an issue as it is not a timed run and apparently they also do not have a finisher's medal for everyone who joined except for the top 3 finishers.

Looking forward to join the Masskara run or may be in other neighboring cities in Negros island.

Taken before the gunshot. P.s I'm not the girl in the photo

Places of My Year 2018

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Sun, 13 Jan 2019 06:59:00 +0000

Bacolod City, Negros Occidental - I guess a trip to Bacolod wouldn't be complete without a visit to The Ruins- the ancestral home mansion of the family of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson and Maria Braga Lacson. It's specifically located in Talisay City.

La Trinidad, Benguet - all about the Valley of Colors and Strawberry farm plus the strawberry flavored taho.

Calatagan, Batangas - a great beach camping site with stairs connecting to Stilts Calatagan -dubbed as the "Maldives of the Philippines".

Bacolod, beyond Masskara

noreply@blogger.com (Lingzi) — Mon, 31 Dec 2018 06:19:00 +0000

“Better to see something once than hear about it a thousand times” - this quote reminds me of my trip to the City of Smiles.

early Sunday morning at the Provincial Capitol lagoon

The idea of going to the Sugar capital excites me. I have a lot of things to do in mind and some sites to see but I won't put such pressure to get things done in a short period because I just want to enjoy my alone time.

I wanted to get a feel of the place so I tried very hard not to bother anyone to ask for directions. It's a bit confusing to commute around Bacolod at first but you'll get used to it after a few days.

I've looked around and stroll along Lacson street, dined outside a public market, visited the Cathedral and sat down for a moment in the plaza just to get a better understanding of their way of life.

I'm grateful to have met not just locals but some people with inspiring stories throughout my stay. How can I forget Manong Ben- the cab driver on my way back. He's been living in Bacolod for 18 years and he has one of the most unforgettable experiences the very first day he had set foot on Negros soil.

And I'd love to do it again in another city where I can walk in the streets unafraid even if unsure of where I'm heading to.