Desh, the stargazer

Mixed up mind.

2013-01-03T23:08:00.000+08:00

~~And I'm not again suppose to blog tonight since I lack sleep, and I feel sick and I have an event tomorrow morning and I feel so sleepy na, but I can't contain myself na naman.~~

I just feel so stupid for acting so stupid the whole day. I don't know what's with me. There's just this one thing that has been bothering me for days and nights now. Something that is maybe just a plain result of my "overthinking".

~~I feel stupid, and I feel sorry at the same time.~~

What has been happening is out of the ordinary , and that is exactly the very reason why my world was shaken, disturbed and threw off balance. This is something I am not used to and so I don't know know how on earth I should react .

~~And now I am again in an exaggerated tone, my apologies.~~

~~I don't know if I made any sense to any of you who'll read this,~~ but it did make me realize something. And that is to add another item in my New Year's Resolution list, which is to lessen "overthinking", stop being melodramatic and start having that so-called composure.

~~MEH.~~

My YEAR 2012 in Review

2012-12-31T15:28:00.000+08:00

I don't do this kind of thing every year, but this isn't my first time either. Last night I had time to read my posts on my previous multiply account, my highschool blog. And there I saw my year end post for 2008. The first thing that came in my mind really is that, OH WOW I CAN'T BELIEVE I'M WRITING/BLOGGING FOR FOUR YEARS NOW ~~(though i must admit I still didn't improved so much. MEHEHE.)~~ So right there, I was inspired to write another year ender post. And you know what's interesting? My year end post last 2008 was merely about how I will miss High School, but with this post,well... let's see :)) Hahaha.

Enough of that. Let's begin!

I could say that year 2012 has been a different one. Yes, like all past years, there are good things, there are bad things, but this time, it was the extremes of both. Extremely bad things of course wouldn't be discussed here to save my mood (and yours too).

Sorry but I will use bullets because I have so many things to do pa :)

January

The first time I hosted an event. It was the OJT/Practicum forum for third year students. I really didn't want to do it because I'm too afraid and I have no confidence, thanks to our president who pushed me. This has been one of the moments I'll never forget.

February

My sister finally left for her first cruise. And if she is also to make a year ender blog, I'm sure it'll be full of stories about her ten-month tour in Europe. (An envy sister here, for that matter. HAHAHA) Oh, by the way, tour is just one of the perks of her job.

March

Got stranded in LPU with friends because of an INC event, and becasue it'll be too risky for me to go home alone, I slept over at my friend's place. I find this remarkable. Haha.
Had my very first formal interview (for internship).
I became a president of a wonderful organization. This. I tell you is the biggest turn of my year 2012. I need not to explain, do I? :)

April

Got one of the worst news ever, I can no longer graduate with flying colors just because I failed in one (freakin') subject. This broke my heart, really.
I had my internship at the Department of Foreign Affairs main office. And there I met incredibly wonderful people. CLICK THIS TO READ MORE. :)

May

Attended an overnight leadership workshop in Cavite with fellow organization presidents and few LPU professors.

June

Miami Heat won NBA finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Yey! LeBron James finally had his first ring :) And he's the MVP!
Group date with our philosopher king. Just kidding! Me and some of my friends had the opportunity to have coffee with one of our favorite professors, Sir Glenn.

July

Induction of officers. This isn't my first time to attend such event, but of course this is different. Unfortunately, not all officers were accommodated, only the presidents and the advisers were allowed to attend.

August

Birthday celeb for DEAN! This is one of the many good memories our section shared with our beloved Dean. We organized a surprise party, and yes, he was surprised! Night full of laughters indeed.
I joined Nuffnang Philippines, a blog advertising community.

September (THIS IS THE BEST MONTH EVER)

My birth month! No wonder it's really my favorite month of the year.
Also the birth month of our dear FSC adviser :)
My very first major event that turned... well... very well :) Such event taught me a lot of things from organizing an event up to dealing with different kinds of people.
FSC lunch with our adviser, Amb. Josue Villa. I wasn't able to post a blog for this and I truly regret it.
I joined a blogging contest for the first time and won. I had the privilege to attend such an awesome star-studded dinner party hosted by no less than Chef Laudico.
Went to the 33rd Manila International Book Fair and bought few good reads.

October

Became a Dean's lister and a scholar once again :)

November

I again received a prize from a blogging contest.

December

December isn't over yet as of this writing.... Mehe.

This isn't all that happened of course, but this were the only things I could remember right now :P

I can't generally say that 2012 has been so good to me, but this will definitely one of the few years I would always want to recall and even go back to.

If 2012 is a different one, I know for sure that 2013 would be a very challenging year for me. Soon after graduation, I will again cross the threshold of an entirely new world. So with four months left, I couldn't just sit and wish and wait. Four months left, I must make the best out of it.

And now, for all of you who became part of my 2012, thank you! And cheers for the many more years ahead of us! Happy New Year, my friend!

Desh Afan
The happy stargazer
Ready to push the start button

#Respect

2012-12-26T19:38:00.005+08:00

Respect. This is what we have for most people and often times the only reason left why we continue being nice to them.

We hear mean words and offending statements, but we choose to keep the displeasure inside, practice patience and try our best not to make a big deal out of it. We get into situations where we have all the reasons to be mad yet we let our emotions subside and forget about it instead. We forgive those who wronged us even if we see no single gesture of repentance from them. We do this (sometimes), avoiding confrontations, not because we are too weak to correct them, nor because we are too scared to be overwhelmed but because it's the right thing to do.

Once in a while, it is much wiser to let things pass, so as not to waste your time and energy in an argument you already know who the winner is. But oftentimes, we let things pass because such virtue of respect prevents us from doing otherwise.

Nonetheless, while respect is earned, it can disappear almost immediately, such as when it is repeatedly not being reciprocated.

Some people behave as if they're always right, especially when they know they are more powerful, more intelligent, and sometimes even just because they know they're much older. They comport oneself with superiority and worst with self-aggrandizement.

And who do we often have respect for? Isn't it them? The more powerful, the more intelligent and the older?

Again, we let things pass, but that doesn't mean we will behave like that for all time, because to the same degree as we have respect for them, we also have respect for ourselves.

http://www.robinsharma.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/respect1.jpg

Remarkable tale. Chos!

2012-11-24T22:12:00.000+08:00

Time slowed down a bit

As the pulsating gather speed

Stars above are staring

The only witness to what is happening

How I wish time will stop

And we'll be here 'til kingdom come

Turn a blind eye to all those crowd

You said three words proud and loud

It's indeed a remarkable tale.

Which in my heart will leave a trail.

Finding Forrester (Full)

2012-11-21T19:50:00.000+08:00

Finding Forrester is a story about writing, friendship and dreams.

At first you would think that it is a story about blacks and whites or that it would give you lessons about racial discrimination. That’s a common notion on movies starring blacks and whites, and that’s one thing that Finding Forrester successfully altered.

It’s a story about writing, about one man who was able to finish and publish a book great enough for him to win a Pulitzer Prize and about a young man who enjoys writing on a greater extent than sharing his feelings to his friends and expressing his thoughts in school. The former is William Forrester, author of a book entitled “Avalon Landing” that put him on the list of successful writers. The latter on one hand is Jamal Wallace, a sixteen-year-old boy who does well on basketball and writing. Both of them see writing as a source of happiness and sense of fulfillment.

It’s a story about friendship. It’s a friendship between a reclusive old man and a silent and humble kid, a friendship that is no ordinary. What binds these two together is their passion for writing. As William patiently help Jamal improve his writing abilities and as Jamal tried to learn more things about William aside from writing, their friendship grew deeper and deeper. William helped Jamal discover what really his talent is and Jamal in turn helped William to rediscover the world he escaped from for long years. They both found such sense of trust and companionship from each other.

It’s a story about dreams, two different dreams however. One, a dream that has gone missing and two, a dream that is yet to be achieved. The movie let the audience see how to discover dreams, how to redefine dreams and how to make it happen. And that is for me, what made the film truly interesting because I believe that everyone has their own unique dreams, everyone has been living their own colorful journeys and everyone has been working so hard to finally live their dreams.

Finding Forrester is a film you would easily understand notwithstanding how deep its message is. It is a movie that would touch your inner being, and a movie that would leave a big impact in your heart and mind. It is a movie that would forever have such power to inspire not just young minds but as well as those who have already accomplished a great deal of things.

***

"You must write your first draft with your heart. You rewrite with your head. Remember, the first key to writing is to write not to think."

"Writers write things to give readers something to read."

A hyperbole... I wish.

2012-11-20T23:49:00.005+08:00

I merely don't share serious things about me, serious feelings I have or serious reflections I make. And if i do, i usually tell it in a very informal and superficial manner that you would think I am really not serious. I don't know, but often times, no matter how hard i try to be damn serious in sharing what I feel, i still end up speaking as if there's no big deal, as if despite how terrible my spiel is, i am still okay, and I remain unshaken. Honestly, that really isn't the case. I don't know if all my friends know this, but I am really an emotional type of person. Too emotional that you can easily make me cry. Too emotional that i get attached to things/persons in just a snap. Too emotional that i easily get mad at myself when i do something bad enough to disappoint people around me. Too emotional that I shed tears for things that happened long time ago and even for things that isn't happening yet.

Now why am i telling all this stuff all of a sudden? It's because right now, I am claiming the right to be emotional.

There are moments that i get to question Him for the life He has given me, but then in general, I remain very thankful for all the blessings He has given me, especially my wonderful family.

I was raised with such a great spirit of optimism. Since then, I believed that all my dreams will eventually come true especially after graduation. I believed that it is just a matter of time, and not a matter of yes or no, not a matter of failure or success. And so I was merely waiting, waiting for things to change and transform into something better.

But then these past few months everything started to change, and that spirit of optimism gradually ceased to exist. And all those enthusiastic plans began to blur.

Unexpected things happened. And it absolutely caught me off guard. I just don't know how to react on what is happening, that i forced myself to focus on other things instead, I kept myself busy. Yes, I chose to escape reality, but not surprisingly, I failed. However, I wouldn't say that it was a wrong move, because at some point, it did helped me.

I am trying to view things as positive as I can but all those negativity simply prevailed over. ~~It's like a feeling of loss, of disappointment, of distrust, of mistrust, and of anger all together.~~

I am not brokenhearted ladies and gentlemen, but ~~I am currently broken~~.

****

Here's just a very timely quotation I saw.

“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Lines 101

2012-11-18T15:43:00.000+08:00

Not that I have nothing to do you know, I'm just taking a break. Hehehehe.

Last Semester! Last Semester!

2012-11-16T23:00:00.000+08:00

For two weeks i've been out of blogosphere, for reasons I would just like to keep with myself. I decided to write again simply because I can't help it. Though I know I do not post entries consistently, it has became part of my system, to write and share what has been happening to me, in school, at home etc.

So my first week in school is over (at least in terms of academics, because I will again be at school tomorrow for org works).

It is my last semester, that's why I have to make the most out of it. It actually made me regret those three and a half years, I should have done much better you know. But oh well, there's no point to feel that way. I'd rather make sure that this last semester I have with my beloved College will be truly remarkable, something I could always recall and recall.

With the start of my last semester, comes meeting the last set of professors we'll be dealing with. And so allow me to say something about them.

Philippine Economic Development Goals and Issues. We are under Madame Tuvera. Yes, we address her "Madame" because she used to teach french language, however I believe economics is really her forte. I can say that she's still new in the college and it's my first time to have her as my professor, therefore it's too early for me to say things. However, I am very much looking forward for a very informative class with her.

Protocol and Etiquette under Amb. Alfredo Almendrala (who'll celebrate his birthday tomorrow, Happy Birthday again Sir!). Well, it's my third semester with him so I don't have to worry that much. Nevertheless, that doesn't mean that I can now go very easy on class, because like I've said, I have to make the most out of my last semester, and I'll never know, Sir Almendrala might just be stricter this time. Hehehehe.

Comparative Government and Politics under no less than my dearest adviser, Amb. Josue Villa. Finally!!! I or should I say we, have been waiting for him to teach us since first year and again, we never thought it would happen. (Read this to know why it did happen, hehehe) As expected, he's really someone you would love to listen to. He's simply very pleasant, and it's maybe one of the many reasons why a lot of students love him. =)

~~PS. I won't dare tell how me and my friends, Shiela, Anne and Quennie survived our epic first class with him. HAHAHAHA.~~

Public Speaking with Amb. Aladin Villacorte. He's our professor last semester and I must say, he's not too generous with grades compared to other professors, but personally I have nothing against him, because I was still able to get 2.0 from him, enough to be a scholar again, so Thanks Sir! :) Our first class with him is something remarkable (for me), he told us he has this glossophobia, fear of public speaking, exactly what he has to teach us. At first, I don't know how to react, well, who would? But after sharing his stories, how, despite of having such phobia still pass the bloody Foreign Service Exam, he definitely inspired me.

International Non-Governmental Organizations with Dr. Marilyn Ngales. First time to be under her, but then the first meeting was enough to say that she's really good and perfect to teach the subject. Though she looks serious and strict I know I'll enjoy her class!

And lastly, International Trade Communication under Mrs. Leonora Astete. She's actually from CAS faculty and I have never been in her class, but then I already know her for she's my friend on facebook since first year. Hehe. During our first meeting I actually thought she's a bit strict and serious but then after today's class with her, I am definitely wrong. She's too cool. Yes, that's the word! Though our class with her is at 5.30-7.00, we didn't get bored and sleepy. Again, she's really cool! =)

I think this post is already too long so i'll end it here.

PS. I miss our Dean, Amb. Reynaldo O. Arcilla, though I am still seeing him everyday. I miss our class with him. It's just sad that we're not under him on our last semester in school. Last sembreak, he told us he'll visit us quite often, and I am waiting for that visit since first day. I hope he'll remember. =))

Ciao!

MEH.

2012-11-02T18:56:00.001+08:00

I'm thinking of quitting this you know. 'Coz srsly, sometimes I don't think this is worth keeping.

Boom. It was a thunderbolt.

2012-10-20T22:32:00.001+08:00

buildings fell

airplanes crashed

ships all sank

boom

i'm still alive

despondency reigned

too arrogantly,

not a single red flag

too rude, too bold

it was a thunderbolt

questions lingered

while all buoyancy passed away

i wasn't coerced, i wouldn't be

nonetheless, they sent me back

back to troubled days, no luck

try to decipher, try to grasp

it's too heavy i cannot stand

it transpired i don't know why

it came like ocean waves

but like Katniss it was on fire

now back to zero or negative one

sorry but you have to full the tank

pray or wish or cry out loud

boom

stop this nightmare all at once

A fool's paradise

2012-10-18T22:58:00.002+08:00

for beyond twenty four hours

someone's overruled

tic toc tic toc

i devoured every clicking sound

i contemplated every move of the lines

been looking forward

for a white blinking light

if not

been anticipating

a quick alerting rock

been wearing this curve

i look like a Cheshire cat

bells ringing

she's on ecstasy, walking

on air, very slowly

non-stop flashbacks

every bit of exchanges

re-thinking

re-reading

then burning

Hush hush

a big dot isn't apt

it is wide of the mark

scenario has to halt

i have to get out of the clouds

right now, straightaway

it's a fool's paradise.

September at its best Part IV: Star-studded Dinner Party

2012-10-18T14:31:00.000+08:00

First of all, I want to say sorry for posting this really late.

So what's this dinner all about?

It's Chef Lau's Dinner Party in cooperation with Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief. Nuffnang had this blogging contest where 15 lucky bloggers will win 2 seats for the dinner. I joined nuffnang August 25 and if I'm not mistaken, it's also the same day that I saw and joined the contest. If you want to read my enrty, here it is Let's Join Chef Lau's Dinner Party! :))

So cutting the long story short.. I WON :))) That was such an awesome feeling you know! It's the first time I joined an online contest and I won? :)))

So here are some of the pictures that would tell you guys how great the dinner was :)

Kitayama Wagyu Beef in Sampaloc Glaze served with Taro Puff and Oven-Roasted Tomatoes.

Three Kinds of Mango Salad with Dijon Bagoong Vinaigrette.

Banana Cue Tart with Langka Ice Cream and Caramel Crunch

Fellow Nuffnang blogger Carmi and Ms. Patty Laurel.

With Chef Rolando Laudico :)

With Chef JP Anglo

With Kean Cipriano :)

With PBB Semerad Twins :)

Few steps away from Billy and Nikki's table :)

Beautiful Carla Abellada

The great giveaways :))

Thank you Colgate :)

Box of chocolates made by Chef Lau's wife :)

Pictures are worth a thousand words :))
Awesome dinner indeed :)

Oh by the way, I was with my bestfriend Christian :))) However, we don't have a picture together and I wonder why :( Anyway, he deserves to be part of this post :)) He owns the pictures after all :)

Took a sip of Jamba Juice before finally going home.
*I arrived home 1am I guess, just saying. Haha.

Thank you so much Nuffnang! :)))

Hatred, Disappointment and Regrets all together.

2012-10-15T21:08:00.000+08:00

I'm sorry but I have to burst out.

Right now.

I've always wanted to share how I feel on this particular thing, but I am stopping myself from doing that, maybe because I knew that it isn't the right time yet. But I really cannot contain myself tonight, and so I will partially tell you guys how i feel, without mentioning the particulars however.

I am seeing these pictures on facebook and twitter, and I feel so stupid that I didn't paid much attention to it when I saw it with my eyes just today. --- But no, maybe that's actually a very good thing that I didn't notice it at that moment, because if I did, I could have cried right away.

Really.

Because until this very moment, it's still extremely painful.
Until this very moment I cannot make myself agree and
until this very moment I still have much hatred inside.

I'm sorry. But until this very moment I am still cursing you.

I cannot stand seeing you, because seeing you reminds me how much pain you've caused me.
Seeing you reminds me how much part of my happiness turned into dust.
Seeing you makes me wanna cry.

I HATE YOU. I'M SORRY BUT I REALLY HATE YOU.

I don't know when would be time that I could finally say the words "IT'S OKAY".

But honestly right now, I am not seeing that to happen, even in the near future.

Right now, the only words inside me are "I WILL NEVER EVER FORGIVE YOU, BUT IF EVER I DID, I WOULDN'T EVER FORGET WHAT YOU DID!"

***

I wish I could all say this to your face. But I don't think I would have the chance and courage to do so.
I feel sorry for feeling this way. It's not healthy.
I know that this post is too harsh because I am putting all the blame on you. But I can't help it.
Nevertheless, may God bless you.

Morbid.

2012-10-06T00:19:00.000+08:00

I want to share that tonight is the start of my two-week misery. Let me gave you a picture of it. :P

Tonight, I have to finish my presentation for International Organizations II due on Monday. And I also have to do bunch of paper works for org.
Tomorrow morning I'll go to school to finalize things for our last event this semester, and by afternoon we have to go to Divisoria and buy the things we need.
Then tomorrow night I have to finish my presentation for International Law also due on Monday.
Sunday morning I have to study my presentation for both IO II and IL.
Sunday afternoon, I have to start my presentation for another report on International Political Economy due on Tuesday.
Sunday night I have to prepare all the things for our event. (Time table, things to bring etc)
Monday morning, the event itself, UN Quiz Bee. Plus two reports afterwards.
Monday night, I have to study my report for IPE, good thing I already delivered my speech for the Dean's class and I don't have to worry anymore.
Tuesday morning, study for IPE again, prepare a news report for Philippine Trade Practices and Procedures and read the Dean's column.
Then, Wednesday, start of the bloody final exams.
And after final exams, I have to work on our org Midyear Report due on 26 this month.

Sorry for listing it down too detailed.

I am suppose to blog how our lunch went this afternoon with our org adviser, however, it's 12 midnight already and I realized I have to start working on my presentation so I could still give myself few hours of sleep.

I don't think I made much sense on this post. So I will just attach my speech in Dean's class earlier :)

He asked us to talk about anything, and I don't know, but this was the first topic that entered my mind. Maybe because I want something different. Something unusual. But this is pretty scary you know. Hehe.

DEATH.

Candles, flowers, coffee, coffin, six feet under, worms, decaying body, I am probably taking about death.

I remember one famous saying from Benjamin Franklin, he said “in this world, nothing can be said to be certain except death and taxes”. Well, people are openly taking about taxes, the lawmakers, rich people, and ordinary people, but death, we don’t really talk about it that much. In fact, we can’t even bare to think of it, can we? When such topic suddenly enters our mind, we do a little head-shake, especially when it involves people who mean so much to us. But why? This is because we are afraid, because we believe that if we think and talk about death, we increase the possibility for it to happen. And we might just end up secretly blaming ourselves for talking and thinking about it.

Death they say is the last layer or definition on that which cannot be defined. As we continue our journey here on earth, we see people dying, we pray for them, we cry for them, but that’s how deep we can get. And still, we cannot define death fully and no matter how hard we try exploring our imagination, there is no way we can confirm it, not until we ourselves go through it.

We know for sure that everyone is bound to die and no one will live forever, and this is one of the few things we all share, that death is naturally inevitable.

But despite of that common knowledge that we have, death still remains as one of the most avoided topics we discuss with our loved ones. It is as if we could postpone or escape death by not discussing it.

But don’t you think it might be a good idea to openly discuss death?

While death remains inevitable it also remains unanticipated like I might die tomorrow, or even later, we’ll never know. Therefore, talking about death can also be beneficial, we should know, accidents, strokes these things do not offer a chance for discussion.

Life is the period between the birth and death of a living thing, the period from an occurrence until death. See? We cannot even define life without death, therefore, at the end of the day, I didn’t really talked about death, rather, I talked about life.

---

The Dean gave me one word, I used it as the title of this post.

Reasons for October.

2012-10-04T23:23:00.001+08:00

I feel so sorry for being such a sinful blogger.
I feel so sorry for not updating my blog despite of so many happenings worth blogging.
But really, I promise to write about them. Better late than never, this time :)

So what are my reasons for not blogging for two weeks now?

My laptop charger broke. And this is the ultimate reason.
I am currently busy with org works. We launched a shirt and we have an upcoming event. Plus, submission of MidYear report is coming so fast.
Pending reports on three of my classes plus one debate plus one speech.
FINAL EXAMS NEXT WEEK.
But you know, despite of numbers 2-4, I believe I could still manage to write. It's just that, number 1 happened. So there.

My charger is still not working well but I am really eager to write tonight. And I don't know why. I actually have a speech due tomorrow but I am having so much difficulty finishing it. So I decided to take a break and spend some 15% of my laptop battery posting here.

Now, maybe that's all. I have to work on my speech pa.

Goodnight blogosphere! :)))

September at its best Part III : The Book Fair

2012-09-22T19:44:00.000+08:00

The Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) is one of the longest-running book fairs in Asia, the MIBF is also considered one of the most accessible venues for showcasing published works. And it has become a yearly tradition for Filipinos.

But unfortunately, it's my first time to visit such book fair. And shame on me, it's also my first time to hear such event. Maybe because I'm not really into buying books, though I am into reading. Hehehe. I know, good books are worth buying, but the fact remains, they're expensive, and I'm just a student :P

And with that, one shouldn't miss a book fair like this.

But hey, don't expect that I bought a bundle of books, no I didn't because though books are discounted, my cash are pretty limited. I truly regret that I didn't save up for this.

Anyway, here are the six books I bought :)

I haven't started reading yet because I'm saving all these for sem-break :)

I would also want to share my fondness for reading. I don't call myself a certified bookworm because really, I've only read a small number of books. I am also not a wide reader and the books I've read are not really well-known. But I enjoy reading, and I can spend a whole day reading.

All books for me are worth reading, because I believe that every author sweat for it. Writing and finishing a story is not easy therefore every book deserves to be read.

Bow.

To our "cuddly" ambassador.

2012-09-20T19:57:00.002+08:00

I just want to share the letter I made for our Org Adviser :)

****

Dear Sir Villa,

We could still remember the day we first saw you. You have probably forgot about it, but three years ago, instead of Dean Arcilla, you’re the one who welcomed our batch in this university, in our road to diplomacy.

Most of us not even once became part of your class. And most of us seniors, with only one semester left, might never really have that chance. And this is one thing we regard as truly unfortunate on our part, for we won’t have the chance to hear your remarkable stories and know you even more.

Nevertheless, that doesn’t mean that we weren’t entitled to be called as one of your students, because virtually, we are. Even though we never really became part of your four-corner class discussions, those short but meaningful conversations you’ve allowed us to have, indeed occupied a space in our hearts and minds.

Those simple hi’s and hello’s, those simple taps on our shoulders and those warm handshakes you’ve given us every events, those things, really, are immensely appreciated.

If there’s one thing that Foreign Service Club should really be proud of, that would be the truth that we have not just an able ambassador, not just a brilliant and compassionate professor but also a very supportive and concern adviser with such a delightful and winsome smile.

Sir Villa, we thank you not just for your untiring guidance and efforts for the organization but as well as being such a real inspiration to all of us.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Sir Villa and may our dear Creator bless you always.

Sincerely,

FSC Officers ’12-‘13

***

Since our Dean was there when I read the letter, he immediately respond to our little "sentiment" that our batch was never under Sir Villa, he assigned him to be our professor for the next semester! Yey! :)

Want to win a Leather Jacket from COPPER?

2012-09-19T13:38:00.001+08:00

Want to have this? If yes,

Click here.

Let's Move & Let's Love

2012-09-17T22:14:00.000+08:00

http://www.smfschools.org/assets/photos/_SMPIMG_large_World.jpg

The world today has been so interconnected. That simple things we do may have its own power to affect other people we don't even know and far away places we can't even imagine.

Therefore, one move or one simple act of love may also have the power to change people's lives and we'll never know, it might also bring changes to the world, changes that many people have been asking for.

Truly, the world today is so much different from what the past generations had. To tell whether the world has become more peaceful, maybe I can only say that it has become less cruel and less chaotic and it isn't enough.

Don't you see why the phrase "World Peace" had always been part of many people's wishes and had been so much of a cliché?

It's because the world is not yet reasonably peaceful. Read the newspapers, evidences can be found there.

So as an individual what can we do to help? What move are we going to take? How can we show our extended act of love to the world?

As a student and a so-called blogger, I formally commit myself to do things that can contribute to a more peaceful world. Yes! A more peaceful world and not just a more peaceful Philippines. How? By exposing and engaging myself to what is happening. By making myself aware of what the world has been experiencing. And from that, I will try to learn, think of possible actions, write inspiring articles, have my own advocacy, know the problem and be part of the solution.

Aesop once said…

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”

And I very much agree to this, for little things aren't really little.

September at its best Part II : The Forum

2012-09-16T12:12:00.000+08:00

As I’ve said on my last post, I was so occupied with other things during my birthday, and this is what I am referring to.

For a month, I have nothing in mind but this.

So what is this all about?

This is our first major event this school year, General Assembly and Road to Diplomacy III Forum at once.

This seems not to be so major since the organization has been doing this for three years now, however, what made it really nerve-racking this year is the fact that I invited no other than the man, whom once I referred to as the world’s greatest boss and for many times I described as a humble and charming man who owns such a contagious and amazing smile, Asec. Raul Hernandez. Yes! He’s the Department of Foreign Affairs “able and amiable” Spokesperson.

But that’s not all, because I also took the risk of inviting our very own dynamic and steadfast College Dean whose love for the country is truly invincible, and who is loved and respected by hundreds or even thousands of IR majors, Amb. Reynaldo O. Arcilla (Ret.).

With such line up, and the presence of our ever endearing and understanding adviser, Amb. Josue L. Villa (Ret.) plus other professors who might come, how could I stay so relaxed?

If just delivering a class report makes me damn nervous, can you imagine how neurotic and overanxious I was?

But enough about that. Let’s talk about the event itself.

Without further ado, the event (as per the president, hehe) was successful.

Not everything went perfectly well, but then I just realized, it is normal. It was our first major event, remember?

I should also say that I am very proud of my officers. This event wouldn’t end up like this if not also for them. We all sweat up and did our best and so the credit all belongs to us. Yey!

It lasts for four and a half hours. It was long really, because our guests actually felt hungry. Hehehe. Fortunately we were able to prepare bite-size sandwiches and juices which they patiently and cutely ate.

I would also like to share that these have been my birthday wishes, first, Asec. Raul’s approval, second, the success of the event and third, words of appreciation from professors and students, which are actually quite the same altogether.

And thank heavens and the stars my wishes all came true.

*****

All these things happening to me are things I thought will just always be in my dreams.

Yesterday, I was just dreaming, and today I am starting to live that dream.

-the stargazer

September at its best Part 1: Birthday post

2012-09-14T22:02:00.008+08:00

So yeah, I celebrated my 19^th birthday last September 9, Sunday. I was just so occupied with other things that I had no time and no energy to post a blog.

Since my birthday fall on a Sunday I had the time to go out and revel …

but nah… that has never been my way of celebrating my birthday. (Though I'd want to have it in the future, hehehe)

My mom, my brother and I just went on the mall and had lunch. But what really made me smile was when my mom allowed me to buy a new dress and a new pair of shoes, heels actually :) But believe me, that dress and heels are sine qua nons (a thing that’s absolutely necessary) and not just a mere desideratum (something desired). So I am now using latin words inspired by my subject International Law. Ako na! Mehehe :)

*And now I am literally imagining myself speaking fluently in Latin. How cool could that be? HAHAHA.

So now let me use a more serious tone.

I am again a year older, and I again have to change my description on my blogsites, from “sweet 18” to “sweet 19”. It’s my last year of being a so-called teenager and probably my last year to bum around, because the next time that I will be celebrating my birthday, *fingers crossed I am no longer a student and I am already out THERE, THERE at the place where I want myself to be.

I am again a year older, therefore when I look in the mirror I should now see someone finer, someone tougher and stronger, someone more confident, someone smarter and wiser, someone more sophisticated, or simply someone better. Better than what I saw a year ago.

I can frankly say : No, that someone is sadly still on her way, and it might take another year or two to finally see and feel her.

But that’s too negative of me to say. To be fair to myself, I've done good things these past few months. And I am very thankful for that.

From being an org president, to being part of such a great office in the DFA, to being able to join a leadership seminar, up to winning a "blogging contest", all that and more happened uninterrupted.

To assess whether I improved or not, well maybe yes, but just a little bit. I am now more comfortable talking to people (professors, boss etc) and my always-trembling-knees are now more relaxed. And maybe it's because I have no choice. With such big responsibility I have right now, there's no room for me to be painfully shy and/or miserably bashful.

I don't know If I actually made sense in this post, but whatever, IT'S MY BIRTHDAY! :)))))))

Words.

2012-09-01T00:23:00.000+08:00

~~Impaired.~~

I am impaired.

In ways you do not know.

In reasons you'll never know.

~~Fragile.~~

I am unfortunately fragile.

That I hardly consider little things as little.

And I often make a big deal out of everything.

Strong.

But I am strong.

Strong enough to let things pass.

To put things easily in the past.

~~Limitations.~~

I have my limitations however.

Just like everyone else.

That I can burst into pieces or be infuriated.

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

Forgive me for being so dramatic.

Btw, this post could be my Tangled lines at night Part II.

Mehehe.

Stay twisted 'till September 16!

2012-08-29T10:34:00.000+08:00

This is a good news, isn't it? :)

Let’s join Chef Lau’s Dinner Party!

2012-08-25T14:45:00.001+08:00

http://www.yummy.ph/recipe/homemade
-peanut-brittle-parfait

Tell me, who wouldn't want to have a taste of this mouthwatering Peanut Brittle Parfait a dish from Chef Rolando Laudico's Bistro Filipino?

Well, this is just one of the many scrumptious foods we all want to savor. Everyday, we are exposed to different kinds of delectable foods, as we walk on the streets, as we watch the television, as we scan magazines and even as we surf the internet.

We all want to try every food placed on our table, but there are certain things stopping us. And one of this is when we are experiencing teeth sensitivity or pangingilo. This is when the taste of ice cream and even a sip of coffee turns to such a painful experience for you.

I myself experienced it in the past, that even caused me to wince every time I brush my teeth. But like I said, it's all in the past! Thanks to the latest Colgate® Sensitive Pro-Relief® Toothpaste! It provides me instant relief and by using it regularly it provided me lasting protection against tooth sensitivity.

You just have to simply massage a small amount on the sensitive tooth for 1 minute and enjoy Instant relief to sensitive teeth. With regular, twice daily use, it builds a lasting barrier that acts like a protective seal against sensitivity.

Colgate® Sensitive Pro-Relief® is 2x more effective in providing sensitivity relief. Because it tackles the root cause of sensitivity, and yes! you can now eat and drink your favorite treats without fear.

With the Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief Toothpaste, I am now ready to taste all the exciting signature dishes that will be served in Chef Lau's Dinner Party!

One of the country’s most well-loved chefs, Chef Rolando “Lau” Laudico, will be hosting an exclusive dinner party at Bistro Filipino for fifteen lucky bloggers and other special guests. The dinner party will feature some of his popular, signature dishes which he can now fully enjoy without worrying about tooth sensitivity or “pangingilo,” thanks to Colgate® Sensitive Pro-Relief®.

I am an International Relations student, but my biggest dream really is to be a chef. And I would be hitting a lot of birds if I am to attend Chef Lau's Dinner Party! I would really be happy to meet a professional chef that could serve as my motivation and inspiration to pursue my dreams in the future. I would also love to taste all his signature dishes, and we couldn't tell, i might also grasp tips in cooking and even take home yummy recipes which my mom and I can try at home! I really want to be one of the fifteen lucky bloggers!

Here's a video to watch and a write up to read :)

Chef Rolando “Lau” Laudico, one of the country’s most well-loved chefs, has been cooking since he was seven years old. His mom was the first one to teach him the ways of the kitchen.
For him, cooking is a form of Art and Science-- two of his favorite subjects in school. This culinary genius believes that he can best express his creativity but through food.

But Chef Lau, as he is commonly called, never realized that one can actually have a career in cooking until he was already in high school. It was when he started reading magazines and books about chefs and their restaurants that he told himself that he wanted to become like the people he read about.
At the age of 24, he started working at La Primavera’s kitchen washing dishes and doing prep work. For professional culinary training, he went to the Culinary Institute of America. He then headed to France and started working as an apprentice at L’Essentiel.

In 2006, Chef Lau opened Bistro Filipino which offers traditional and modern Filipino cuisine. To date, he still runs the restaurant alongside his wife Jackie, who is a pastry chef. They’ve also put up Chef Laudico Culinary Services which provides catering for special events. The culinary couple’s newest baby is BFAST in Ayala Triangle Gardens which serves breakfast favorites the whole day.

Chef admits that the passion for food came like second nature, something that was fun for him to do and at the same time very creatively satisfying. But he was faced with a big challenge. Ever since he was young, he had problems with his teeth. It would always feel tooth sensitivity and it made eating and drinking hard at times.

With his tooth sensitivity, he felt like there is a sudden sharp pain that spread like lightning from his teeth to his brain, making it really difficult to do his job as a chef.

As a chef, he tastes a lot of dishes everyday-- from hot soups to sour sauces to cold frozen sorbets to sweet desserts. Having sensitive teeth made tasting food a very painful experience, making his job less enjoyable.

It became such a nagging problem that he went to a dentist and was told to use a toothpaste for his sensitive teeth.

Now, Chef Lau swears by Colgate® Sensitive Pro-Relief® toothpaste. He says, “It’s like the toothpaste the dentist uses on me in the clinic. I like the pleasant taste too. I’ve been using it for a year or so and my teeth became less sensitive the longer I used it up to the point that I hardly get any painful surprises at all. ”

With Colgate® Sensitive Pro-Relief®, Chef Lau is more confident in tasting his food without the fear of tooth sensitivity.

Tangled lines at night

2012-08-24T23:15:00.000+08:00

Today I did something.
Something that might be right, but might also be wrong eventually.
Something I really wanted to happen, but something I never wanted myself to do.
Something that I've been waiting for but still came like a bolt from the blue.

Some things are really out of your control.
There will be times that you'll no longer have a choice.
Not even a minute to think and gather your thoughts.

And now it left me with this kind of feeling
A feeling i cannot really fathom.
There are no words to best describe this.
And the best thing to do is to sleep on it.