Barefooted Me

Cowhide Rugs - The Ultimate Nature-Made Rug For You

2016-04-16T01:26:00.002+08:00

Finding the right accent pieces to add to your home décor is rarely simple and easy. There are a seemingly endless range of options available, but you may be struggling to find accent pieces that bring character and flair into your space. You may want accent pieces that have unique personality and that will be talking points for those who walk into your home. The perfect solution is to use natural cowhide in your home. You can decorate in a number of ways with cowhide rugs, and all of these gorgeous rugs can provide you with the results you desire.

How to Decorate With Natural Cowhide

Cowhide rugs are most commonly placed on the ground as a floor covering, and they can dress up the floor with tremendous results. However, this is not the only option when decorating with cowhide. For example, cowhide can also be strewn over the back of a chair or sofa as a throw, adding softness and unique personality to these features. Some people will even hang up a cowhide on the wall as a tapestry wall covering. When you are shopping around for accent pieces to place in your home, consider how different types of cowhide may look in each of these areas of your home.

The Beauty of Cowhide

If you have never considered decorating with cowhide, you may want to take a closer look at what this gorgeous material has to offer. Many people are drawn to it because of the fascinating color options that it is available in, including black, white, buff, rust and more. Some cowhides may have two or more colors mottled together, and they may be mildly or intensely mottled for more personality. This can change the entire look of the rug, and this can give your space a different element of character. You typically can choose the exact cowhide rug that you want in your space, so you have complete control over how mottled or speckled your rug is.

A Rug You Will Love for Years

Some area rugs are made out of fragile or delicate materials, and these may easily show signs of wear and tear with regular use. Cowhide, on the other hand, is a durable material that will withstand wear. It will continue to look just as fabulous years from now as it does on the day that you purchased it, and this holds true even if you place it in a high traffic area of the home. More than that, it is a hypo-allergenic material, so you can truly love the rug in your home even if you suffer from allergies.

There are many natural and synthetic materials that you could incorporate into your space when decorating. However, only cowhide rugs have the charming, rustic, natural look that you are searching for, and they bring this look into your home in a hardwearing, hypo-allergenic format. You can begin reviewing some of the many lovely styles of rugs available today to find the right style for your home.

Holy Week 2016

2016-03-27T22:00:00.000+08:00

We visited only two churches last Good Friday, out of the originally planned five churches for our Visita Iglesia itenerary for this year, since we headed out already late in the afternoon.

Our first stop was at the National Shrine of the Sacred Heart in Makati City. It had already started to get dark when we reached the church, but we were able to do the Stations of the Cross inside the compound, along with other visitors.

The National Shrine of the Sacred Heart

Inside the church

The 9th Station

What I found particularly interesting in their version of the Stations of the Cross is that for every station, there is a corresponding activity that will help you feel, understand and contemplate more on the readings and reflection of each station. For me, it gives more meaning to the act, rather than just merely reciting the words.

Activity for the 9th Station

Red pieces of paper with several scribbled notes pasted on the Cross

My Little Lady and my niece cutting a piece of what represents as Christ's cloth during crucifixion

BandAid paper where people can write their emotional wounds and paste them on the Cross

My Little Lady carried the Cross while reflecting on this station

The 13th Station

Our Lady of Sorrows

Jesus in His tomb

Painting of The Sacred Heart of Jesus photo courtesy of the NSSH website

THE 12 PROMISES OF THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS

Every First Friday of each month, devout and faithful Catholics consecrate to the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the spirit of reparation. Jesus Christ Himself made the following promises to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, in favor of those who fervently practice and promote this devotion.

1. I will give them all the graces necessary for their state of life.

2. I will give peace in their families.

3. I will comfort them in all their afflictions.

4. I will be their security and refuge during life, and above all, in death.

5. I will bestow abundant blessings upon all their undertakings.

6. Sinners will find in My Heart the Source, and Infinite Ocean of Mercy.

7. Lukewarm souls shall become fervent.

8. Fervent souls shall quickly mount to high perfection.

9. I will bless every place in which an Image of My Heart is exposed and honored.

10. I will give to priests the gift of touching the most hardened hearts.

11. Those who shall promote this devotion shall have their names written in My Heart.

12. I promise you in the excessive Mercy of My Heart, that My all powerful Love will grant to all those who receive Holy Communion on the First Fridays in nine consecutive months, the grace of final perseverance; they shall not die in My disgrace, nor without receiving their Sacraments. My Divine Heart shall be their safe refuge in this last moment.

NATIONAL SHRINE OF THE SACRED HEART

4 Sacred Heart St., San Antonio Village, 1203 Makati City, Philippines

Tel. (+632) 895-6331 / (+632) 890-5357

Fax: (+632) 899-6340

Mobile: (+63) 0922-8981006

E-Mail: nsshparish@ymail.com

Website: nsshph.blogspot.com

Facebook.com/NationalShrineoftheSacredHeart

Twitter: twitter.com/NSSHPH

Office Hours are from Tuesdays-Sundays

8:00 AM-12:00 NN / 2:00 PM-6:00 PM

SCHEDULE OF CELEBRATIONS

Rector / Parish Priest: Rev. Fr. Victor Y. Apacible

Resident Guest Priests: Msgr. Romeo A. Violeta / Rev. Fr. Rogelio A. Orpiada

WEEKDAY MASSES

6:00 AM, 6:45 AM and 7:30 AM * 12:15 PM * 6:00 PM

SATURDAY MASSES: 6:00 AM, 6:45 AM, 7:30 AM

ANTICIPATED MASSES: 5:00 PM / 6:30 PM (Tagalog)

SUNDAY MASSES

6:00 AM, 7:30 AM (Tagalog), 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM 12:00 NN

2:30 PM (Children's Mass Tagalog), 4:00 PM (Tagalog),

5:30 PM, 7:00 PM and 8:30 PM

SPECIAL MASSES - Second Sunday

7:30 AM Mass for the Elderly (Tagalog)

5:30 PM Mass for the Youth

St. Andrew the Apostle Parish Church

Our second and last stop was at St. Andrew the Apostle Parish Church. I only took one photo, but marveled at the design and structure inside, that veers away from the regular architecture of most churches.

The church was very solemn, and the instrumental music that was playing that time rendered the place more conducive for praying and deep reflection.

ST. ANDREW THE APOSTLE PARISH

62 Constellation Street, Bel-Air II Makati City, Philippines

Tel. (+632) 890-1796

Website: http://www.saaparish.com/

Facebook.com/saaparish

SUNDAY MASS SCHEDULE

6:30am - Filipino

8:00am - English

9:30am - English

11:00am - English

12:15nn - English

3:30pm - Filipino

5:00pm - English

6:30pm - English

8:00pm - English

Overall, our shortened Visita Iglesia this year was spiritually enriching, nevertheless. For it lies not on how many churches one has visited, but the quality of prayer one has completed in the journey.

Hope you all had a blessed and meaningful Holy Week.

HAPPY EASTER!

New Year in March

2016-03-15T20:00:00.000+08:00

If I am to create my own calendar, my year will commence months after it has officially began for everyone else (even later than the Chinese celebrate their New Year). Just like my typical week starts on Tuesdays, my days start at noon, while my energy and creativity surge profusely at night.

I am a nocturnal being by nature, with my body clock wound counter clockwise and I still do not understand why experts insist that waking up late does not compensate for sleeping late, regardless if it still amounts to 8 hours of recommended sleep (most of the time, even more). They say “the body knows its proper rest schedule or when it is day or night” and once you upset it, the balance is tipped and your health is put at risk. But how did they know what the body knows?

Yes, it is no doubt a complicated mystery under the perennial shroud of that thing we call ‘Science’, where everything must have a rationale. Besides, who am I to argue with the so-called “experts”? It does not necessarily mean though that I fully believe in them or that I will follow what they say is supposedly true and right. As a nonconformist, I rebel at the thought of being told when to sleep and wake up. I feel it is best to listen to my body and heed its signal— to sleep when I feel sleepy and to wake up when it needs to, regardless of time.

But that is just me in my own utopic universe.

The truth is, we live in a world where everything has been placed under a certain schedule or order, from where we base the plan of our own timetables. This is the prevailing state we were born to follow in order to move in congruence with the rest of society.

Regardless of what the world dictates, my year still starts beyond January; my week begins any day except on a Monday, my sun rises at noon--when it is at its scorching brightest, and my nights end when it is time for the rest of humanity to start a brand new day.

Which Way do You Want to Go?

2016-01-31T16:38:00.001+08:00

It is the first month of the year. A new beginning towards our journey through 2016, and the last thing I would want to write about is death.

This post was originally composed last November 2015, meant for All Souls’ Day. Apart from commemorating and praying for our dearly departed, it is also a time to reflect on life. But I believe that the topic of death remains relevant regardless of time, since it is one reality that we all have to face at any point in our lives. Whether it happens to a friend, family member, or eventually, to ourselves.

As a positive, blessed-with-sunny-disposition-always-optimistic person, I have the natural aversion to negative, sad, depressing topics and pessimistic point of views. It is precisely why I don’t like watching the news, for obvious reasons, or watching movies that do more emotional turmoil than provide a blissful escape from the real world.

Life is naturally seasoned with events that bring us sorrow and pain. No matter how we shield ourselves from all the negativity and sadness in the world, the fact remains that we coexist with it to provide a sense of balance in the emotional ecosystem. After all, how can we appreciate the sweetness of happiness if we do not know the bitterness of sorrow and pain?

I do not want to entertain the idea of death at this point in my life, because I know I am not yet ready for it. In fact, I don’t think I will ever be. I still have a lot to do and accomplish--so many dreams to fulfill and plans eagerly waiting to be realized, especially for my Little Lady. But I know that no matter how much we want to live longer more than we are supposed to, only God knows when we will truly go. Regardless if we are ready or not, I believe we can only bargain for an extension or the preferred circumstance of our grand exit, from the Giver of Life.

People die every minute, every day, in many different ways. But if you will be given a chance to choose how you will go, which way would it be?

As for me, I prefer a painless demise while in deep slumber, dreaming the most beautiful dream. Take note that this can only happen any time after I turn 101 years old. Yes, I declare that I plan to live a very long life.

How about you?

Have a blessed and meaningful Sunday, everyone!

Sayonara 2015!

2015-12-31T06:03:00.000+08:00

New Year 2015

As 2015 finally comes to an end, it suddenly hit me-- can I bear the thought of having a single post recorded for this year? I only realized that I had been most MIA this year that the previous ones, and I desperately NEED to snap out of this year-long stupor already. That is why, at past 5:00 am today I started typing this, or else things will get in the way again before I can publish. Sleep, for most part, some cleaning after, and making lasagna for our New Year's Eve dinner.

I know it feels like visiting a home while the owner is on vacation, but I hope my previous posts kept you company while I fulfilled real world responsibilities. The year 2015 has been a good year for me, but as much as I wish I was able to share my moments with you, time already slipped away and I can only look forward to a better 2016, where I can hopefully learn to have improved time management skills.

Yes, seriously.

My goal for next year is to maximize my time and do more. My head is overflowing with ideas that need realization. So much creativity and potential, but lack of planning, strategy and implementation. I know for years that the way I manage my daily activities need to change if I want to see improvement in all areas of my life, including this blog. Let us wait and see how it will turn out this time around (fingers crossed).

In the meantime, let me greet you a Merry Christmas and a Blessed Happy New Year 2016 to you and your families. May God bless us all!

Sayonara 2015!

Lessons in Music

2015-04-16T21:00:00.000+08:00

If only Northampton Massachusetts piano lessons are available here in the country, I am positive that it would be one of my top choices for my daughter’s activity this summer. Although piano lessons abound almost anywhere in the world nowadays, whether offered by an institution or on a personalized level, these are not created alike. Suffice it to say, not everything provides high quality and standard training. As a staunch supporter of honing my little lady’s talents, I always choose providers that prioritize excellence to fully maximize the value of time and money invested.

When my musically-inclined daughter was much younger, she enjoyed classical and piano music during play time; while the same served as her lullabies that provided comfort to attain a good night’s sleep. I can still vividly remember when she hummed her first song, Canon in D by Pachelbel, when she was barely one year old. Since then, I could not help but wish and dream a bright future for her in the music industry, like any normal parent would.

While growing up, she took an interest in playing the piano and guitar on her own. With no one to teach her at home, she made learning possible through watching tutorials online that taught her the basics. I was amazed at how much knowledge she has absorbed out of sheer interest, patience, and determination. She can even play a piece by just getting a feel of the keyboard without reading notes at all. Given the right education and professional guidance, I trust that she will reach her full potential and excel in this field.

There are many self-taught artists that relied purely on talent and perseverance to achieve their dreams, but I believe that if one has the capability to afford to take formal lessons from a reputable educator in the industry, it will equip him/her with the proficiency and expertise through tried and tested methods and techniques that will direct the path to becoming a full-fledged artist.

A Letter to My Daughter

2014-11-23T11:30:00.000+08:00

Originally a handwritten letter I made for my little girl on January 2010, but never had the chance to publish.

Dearest Chestene,

I thought about writing you today because I’m missing you this very minute. I am here at work, and while doing the usual things that I do, my thoughts turned to you. I don’t know if it’s because you lost something again in school. I called the “Lost and Found” section and they already informed your teacher about it, in case they find your eyeglasses. Yes, Mamita told me about it.

I’m not mad, really. It’s just that I want you to be RESPONSIBLE in all aspects, at all times. I know it’s a very big word, but I want you to learn it early in life. When you grow up, you will realize how important it is.

But apart from that, today, I just want you to know that I love you—very much, more that anyone could love you today, tomorrow or any day in the future, because I will love you forever. Always remember that even when everybody else leaves you, I will stay and remain to be your best friend and number one fan for life.

Every night, when I look at your face while you are sleeping, I feel overwhelmingly blessed. Extremely blessed. I may not have all the riches in the world, but I have YOU— and that makes me far richer than the richest person in the world. I thank God all the time for bringing you into my life. I often ask Him, what have I done to deserve such a precious and perfect gift? You are everything I wished for, everything I imagined, every single detail I asked Him for you to be, He has molded and beautifully created.

I just forgot to ask Him to give you clear eyesight, but don’t feel bad. Your eyes are brighter than anyone I know, for it serve as the window where the pureness of your heart shines. Like what I always tell you, it is not something that makes you imperfect in my eyes or in His, but just a slight reminder that you are human, and all humans each have a share of weakness in different forms that make us all unique.

You are beautiful, intelligent, funny, loving, kind, thoughtful, creative and all good things rolled into one. You can be whatever you want to be and so much more, so DREAM BIG. I know you will be the best that you can be. Live each day with the strong confidence and belief that you can achieve whatever you set your mind and heart on. You deserve only the best because you are worth it, so never settle for less.

You will always be my little girl, my precious one, my number one. I promise to do my best to give you the brightest future I could provide. You have so much ahead of you, so many beautiful things and blessings God has in store for you. I have always believed that you are destined to do great things. So live each day full of hope and enthusiasm. Just be patient and prayerful and everything that is meant for you will come in God’s perfect time.

I’m not sure if Mom’s adult talk is boring you already. Probably you are already waiting to be done with this so you can draw, read your books, or write stories. But you can keep this and read it again another day—next week, next month or next year, it doesn't really matter when. Because the words here that show what’s inside my heart, will never ever change.

I love you forever,

MOM

Happy Single Valentine's Day!

2014-02-09T22:00:00.000+08:00

My Colorful Heart 2013

So it’s almost Valentine’s Day.

Do you feel or have succumbed to the pressure of one of the most celebrated events every year? Well, I don’t. You see, one of the perks of being single is the fact that you don’t have to plan your world around the existence of another person you are romantically attached to, everyday—not just on V-Day.

Just a shout out to other fabulous singles: there are things that you can actually do this time of the year, other than cuddling and canoodling or haplessly jumping into a relationship just for the sake of having someone to spend it with. You can:

(a) stay at home and sleep the day away (saves you money!);

(b) organize 'I Hate Valentine’s Day' party with your single and brokenhearted friends and revel on how being in love sucks;

(c) watch a romantic movie, depress yourself a little, and gorge on the tastiest and 'junkiest' food available;

(d) go out and treat your amazing single self with some head to toe pampering;

(e) write the bucket list of all bucket lists (it’s about time!);

(f) buy yourself flowers and chocolates (read: love yourself!);

(g) list down the qualities of your ideal partner, then envision and practice the Law of Attraction (if you don’t want to spend the next Valentine’s Day alone again, that is); and

(h) a whole lot of possibilities!

You can be bitter or better—whichever you choose, it’s your call. After all, the truth is, it’s just another day and no one can judge you on how you decide to spend it.

Of course, the invisible pressure and the cheesiness of the day will still be squeamishly felt, while ants feast on the sweetness of the syrupy occasion. But there’s more to spending the day as a lovesick couple. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE BEING IN LOVE—so much, I hope I feel it again very soon. It's just that I believe, one can also turn this day into an opportunity to appreciate OTHER people they love. You know, the ones who stay along the sidelines when your world is revolving around one person alone, yet stays with you to pick up the pieces of your shattered heart and help you rebuild your life again, long after the love of your life has moved on to another prey.

Spread the love to those who need it too, like family, friends, or even strangers, and make a difference on someone else’s Valentine’s Day. You’ll be surprised how much it will mean to both of you.

As for my plans, sure I’ll spread the cheer around by sending heart-shaped greetings, but I guess I’ll go the usual road of mediocrity with some dose of fun, and end up spending it meaningfully with the people that matter most to me—my family.

Trust me; it will be just as sweet and cheesy, with dozens of assorted heart-shaped Krispy Kreme donuts to devour coupled with big hugs and small kisses.

Happy Hearts' Day!

P.S. Took this photo of the sky last year and turned it into a colorful heart, somehow. Please feel free to share and link back. :)

Under Promise, Under Deliver

2014-01-01T01:26:00.000+08:00

Photo Credit

I have under promised and under delivered 3 blog posts last 2013. Time breezes so hastily, making it hard hard to catch up and write (Read: Yes, I have been my laziest self). I had so many things going on in my head, words included, that needed to be written and regretfully, just dissipated into oblivion after some time due to memory gap.

Details to follow on my next hopefully upcoming post soon, but for now, let me greet you a remarkable, fabulous and amazing 2014, loaded with bliss and overflowing blessings! :)

Happy Fathers' Day!

2013-06-16T04:16:00.000+08:00

To our very own Man of Steel, to the admirable men who carry on the noble mission of fatherhood, and to the great women who lovingly fulfill the duties of both mother and father, may the good Lord bless you with immeasurable joy and happiness always!

HAPPY FATHERS' DAY, DAD! WE LOVE YOU!

P.S. Made this layout for Dad's 75th and Sofia's 5th joint birthday celebration in 2011.

A Time to Give

2013-06-12T04:54:00.000+08:00

When I was younger, I had all the time in the world to create handmade gifts to my family and friends whenever there’s a special occasion. I love to do crafts and shop for cute and useful things that I would put together, redesign and personalize. Preparing gifts and surprising my loved ones with inexpensive, yet unique creations always give me a different sense of fulfillment. But when I became an adult with real life responsibilities to prioritize, I realized what “so much to do, so little time” meant in its truest sense.

Fortunately, while the luxury of time has become limited, the creative expression need not be compromised. There are a lot of online gift shops today that cater to this specific kind of need, where you can browse a lovely range of selections and conveniently order in just a few clicks, without going to a physical store. So whether one is too busy to shop for dog gift baskets for a furry friend, or has ran out of ideas of what to give during the holiday rush, the warmth of Christmas food gift baskets never fail to spread the holiday cheer.

One of the best things that my parents taught me early in life is how to be a joyful giver. It does not matter how little or how much you give, for the thought of sharing without expecting anything in return, is what’s truly important. Gift-giving does not always require a special occasion. Whenever you feel like sharing, please do. The profound happiness it brings is meaningful both to the giver and the receiver, especially when it comes from the heart.

2013: Under Promise, Over Deliver

2013-01-31T22:00:00.000+08:00

Unposted artwork from 2011

I started blogging in 2008, over enthusiastic yet clueless. I was nervous working on the first article I’m sharing to the world, for the OC in me had to make sure it’s free from typos and grammatical errors. Just as I mentally edit the words before I speak, I re-read and revised my first blog post so many times before clicking the ‘Publish’ button. The thought of someone reading it and finding mistakes, made me cringe.

As I journeyed through the blogosphere, I learned by making baby steps on how to make my blog presence felt online; became more comfortable with writing for myself and others, as well; connected and made friends both local and abroad; gained followers who actually read my thoughts and anticipate the next letters that I will type; and ultimately, profit from what I write.

It has been almost 5 years and I’m fully aware that I have grown laid-back and MIA most of the time, as my blog aged and survived purely through traffic source from search engines (I’m lucky I wrote about things that people look for all the time). But through the years, I've always had the deep yearning to share new insights and experiences regularly and make my existence felt, only that I have yet to find the inspiration to let it happen.

For what it felt like the longest time, I have postponed writing lengthy posts in exchange of real world activities that consume my days. I have resorted to posting photos instead, that need very little words to spare me from having to say more than what is called for. And testament to that, is a grand total of 3 posts last year that clearly say, it’s time to light up my fire in a major way and keep it burning once again.

I had two wakeup calls last year when I attended seminar-workshops about Innovating Governance through the Social Web and the Nuffnang Blogopolis. I’m so glad I went to both events for I came to realize the great opportunities I have been missing by putting blogging on hold. One significant thing I learned is to ‘under promise and over deliver’ instead of what I've been doing, which is completely the other way around. I realized that promising to write and going MIA all of a sudden is a clear injustice to my readers.

So just as resolutions and diet promises begin whenever a brand new year unfolds, I’m jumping in the bandwagon and try to fulfill undelivered promises this time around. I still have a lot of words and ideas kept hostage inside my head that will be put into writing, so please stick around and watch them finally unravel. :)

The Phantom of the Opera Exclusive Meet and Greet Promo

2012-09-30T17:00:00.000+08:00

Get a chance to win an exclusive pass - a pair of orchestra tickets to meet the stellar cast of The Phantom of the Opera on October 9, 2012, Tuesday, right after the 8:00 pm show.

To join, 'like' the Concertus Manila Fan Page on Facebook, post and share a photo or video of your favorite song or character from The Phantom of the Opera, and tell them why. Deadline of entries is on October 8, 2012, 12:00 noon, and winners will be posted on the same date.

A Time to Move

2012-08-21T20:29:00.000+08:00

My cousin has been bugging me to inquire about getting a tourist visa from the US embassy, for the longest time. She left for the States more than seven years ago, where she worked as a nurse for different hospitals in Arizona. She wanted me to visit her, show me around the state, take me shopping (which she knows I love the most!), and visit our relatives too, in San Francisco and California. It’s a long overdue invitation, but until now I haven’t gotten the time and energy to even ask about the requirements. I’m still tied at work and don’t know when I will finally get the chance to plan this escapade.

She and her husband built a beautiful home. Whenever we receive photos of her big yet cozy place, I couldn’t help but admire how she designed her home so tastefully. They are still waiting for a baby to finally come and complete their lovely family though. But for now, they have their hands full of adorable pet dogs that fill the place with warmth and delight.

I know she loves her home and is very much happy where she is right now. But the last time we talked, she was searching for ShipSmart testimonials online. According to her, she is keeping it a secret for now, but judging by the excitement in the sound of her voice, I suspect it has something to do with a big career move she’s been gushing about for the past months. My best guess is that maybe she has finally decided to accept a better offer in another hospital that requires her to move out of state. Well nobody knows for sure, until she finally announces it.

Good thing I have yet another reason to put my plans for visa application on hold, until I’m sure where the trip will bring me in the future. For now, I will save up to make sure shopping in that undisclosed destination will be truly worth it when the time finally comes.

That Thing that I Don't Do

2012-06-30T17:21:00.000+08:00

My two babies turned one year old just recently.

I got my Sony Vaio laptop as a gift from an angel for my birthday last year, while I got a Blackberry phone as a gift for myself (truly deserved and long overdue!) after finally moving on from my handy white Nokia of 4 years, that hanged frequently simply because I refused to delete 1,500++ messages from my inbox I felt were too precious to be erased.

Yes, I’m sentimentally foolish like that.

Just like I fill my drawers with personalized table napkins I take from restaurants I have fond memories of, bits and pieces of mementos from happy occasions I’ve been to, baby stuff— like the umbilical cord clip, locks of hair from my Little Lady’s 1st, 2nd, 3rd haircut, baby nail clippings, and the teeth that fell off before she turned 7, these little reminders of her milestones are tucked away safely in my memory drawer. Some people may consider it accumulated trash, but the sentimental ones consider them a treasure chest of memories meant to be cherished.

Anyways, back to one of my babies. It’s funny how a year passed by quickly and still I haven’t used my laptop as I intended it to— for writing my thoughts and translating them into blog posts. Sure, I have used it for a multitude of things like surfing the internet, watching movies, playing music and games, designing in Photoshop, writing sponsored posts, and it had also been useful to my Little Lady for making reports, other assignments and her own blog posts, but not as I originally planned, dreamed and imagined.

Remember Doogie Howser? The TV series of a whiz kid who became a doctor at a young age? It was watching him then that inspired my fascination of having my own desktop computer and typing my diary entries instead of writing them by hand on a notebook, at the end of the day.

I still remember vividly the first computer I bought from a surplus shop (fuelled by the same dream). The CPU was a big IBM-XT with really sturdy casing and a wide floppy disk slot, with the corresponding CRT monitor with a chunky back. Sturdy as it looked, it’s quite sensitive on the inside that’s why I had to be careful not to move it unnecessarily or shake it, or else the hard disk will malfunction.

I intended for it to become the realization of my ‘Doogie Howser dream’, but I ended up using it to record my sales when I had a small business stint selling sleepwear. Now I realized that I’m quite consistent with getting distracted and putting things on hold, so I decided it’s time to get things actually done and be more productive.

So what I’m actually trying to say here after 460 words of flashback and storytelling is that, this is my very first official blog post from my laptop and I’m very happy to have finally ticked this off my THINGS TO DO list. :)

An Officer and a Gentleman

2011-12-03T14:43:00.000+08:00

Originally posted on June 2008, as a Father's Day tribute to my Dad, I'm re-posting this on the occasion of his 75th Diamond birthday this year. I may have written this 3 years ago, yet it still carries the overflowing love I have for him and the pride it brings to be his daughter. I read this during his surprise party, to share with everyone how great he is in so many ways and how we love and treasure his presence in our lives.

June is already about to end, but I cannot let it pass without writing about the first man that I ever loved.

My Dad.

Not every child is blessed with the opportunity to be with his/her parents. It is a fact and a sad reality that has become increasingly common nowadays in the society. The prevalence of failed marriages and other factors that break families apart or prevent them from being whole, makes me feel fortunate to have lived my life with the loving presence and guidance of both my mother and father under one sturdy roof.

My dad was a soldier and an officer in the Philippine Army. In his youth, he was a consistent honor student; he was able to put himself through college as a working student, all the way to an MBA degree in Ateneo, by sheer patience and perseverance.

While simultaneously working and attending school, he also devoted his time to help out his family by sending his siblings to school. He is second among the brood of 3 boys and 2 girls, yet he stood as the family's breadwinner.

He met my Mom when he was assigned in Leyte during the late '60s; he fell in love with the lovely Waray lass 11 years his junior and later married her a month after he turned 32. Theirs is a love story that spans 39 years of marriage to date, yet it still carries the same warmth and magic it always had.

Mini Him

I am more like my dad, in many aspects. In fact, he would always joke about me being his 'junior', because of our unmistakable similarities. Apart from our shared love for spicy food, just like him, I am also being commonly referred to as the enigmatic and intimidating silent type who writes more and talks less.

A voracious reader, he ingrained in me the love for reading at a very tender age. I remember his shelf full of books on health, power, how to get rich and positive thinking. Two of his favorite books that he shared with me are Dale Carnegie’s How to Win Friends and Influence People and Norman Vincent Peale’s The Power of Positive Thinking.

So that’s how I got the optimistic virus, huh? He gave me a gift that would carry me through a lifetime.

A Good Soldier

Majority of his assignments were in provinces and NPA (New People's Army) infested remote barrios, where my mom bravely tagged along and experienced distributing hand grenades to soldiers' wives, whenever there's a threat of rebel attack in the community.

My sister and I on the other hand, stayed in Manila counting the days when they will be back home again. We survived the distance through prayers, radio to phone patches, letters, telegrams and scheduled school break vacations with them.

The magic acronym to us then was ETA (Expected Time of Arrival), for that's the time when we will see each other again.

He finally tendered his early retirement in 1987 to be with us, but mainly to spare his integrity from the pressures of corruption from his superiors.

The Survivor

Dad became a health buff later on and buried his nose in health books and medical research. It was then that fate played a trick on him and out of the blue came out the big bad 'C'.

He was diagnosed to have Cancer of the vocal cord in 2003.

It was heartbreaking and world-shattering to be told that this man who hasn't smoked a cigar in his lifetime, doesn't drink liquor and is leading a relatively healthy lifestyle had this particular disease already in its advanced stage.

Nevertheless, we did not lose hope. As a family, we had to be strong enough to face this trial head-on. We armed ourselves by storming the heavens with prayers and thoroughly researched about the disease and its treatment. We opted for surgery, but dad compromised that whatever happens, chemotherapy and radiotherapy will never be an option.

The operation was successful, but the recuperating stage was the most emotionally and physically draining aspect of the treatment. A tracheostomy tube was temporarily placed in the hole/stoma in his throat after the operation, where a continuous supply of mucus come from.

I had to learn how to suction to keep his air passage clear, every time. I, who faint at the mere sight of blood, was able to survive this medical nightmare.

This has made our family stronger in more ways imaginable. With God's grace, dad has remained Cancer-free to date, but the trial doesn't end there. Currently, he is under continuous medication for congestive heart failure.

Physically he is strong, but anatomically, his heart has gone weak. Even the doctors were amazed on how he survived this condition without major attacks and other physical manifestations. He attributes this miracle to taking alternative supplements religiously that improved his overall well-being.

The Best Father

I know this post has gone longer than I originally planned, but there will never be enough words to describe this great man who is a loving and loyal husband, a good father, a role model and a prayerful son of God. He is one of the few men who gives justice to the word 'father' in its truest essence and meaning.

They say that a dad will know if he has been a good father when his daughter's ideal man is 'just like daddy'. This rings true because I would also like to end up with someone who is just like my first love, my hero and real super man.

Thank you dad, for all that you are and all that you've given to make our family what it is today - solid and God-centered. In my heart, you will always be the best father and teacher. I love you!

Happy 75th Birthday, Dad!

Related Post:

The Best Mom in the World

Online Bingo, Anyone?

2011-11-27T23:58:00.001+08:00

Whenever I go to my favorite mall, I always hear the fun and cheering when the bell rings loudly in a particular section of its 2nd floor, just a few stores away from the bookstore I frequent. One day, out of curiosity, I checked it out and discovered that it’s actually a Bingo hall where people from all walks of life spend their leisure time, with the hope of winning the varying prizes at stake being offered daily. I wish I have the luxury to sit, play and enjoy even a single game. But whatever time I have gets spent in browsing for books and more books for my little lady, so before I know it, it’s closing time already and I haven’t accomplished much - not even the reason why I went there in the first place. It happens all the time so I just resort to making a mental note to play online bingo games instead, since I spend a generous time in the internet. Being online is where I need not worry about the pressure of rushing things I love to do, just to squeeze in a game schedule. Anything can be done in the comfort of my room, in my fluffy slippers and goofy pajamas.

Playing Bingo is one of the first adult games I learned as a kid. My favorite aunt would always bring me along whenever she gets invited to play Bingo in our neighbor’s house. I enjoy the simplicity of the game and the rush of excitement whenever my card number is drawn and the desired pattern is formed. We play a few games and when we have enough winnings to buy us snacks, we go to a convenience store to buy soda and baked goodies. It seems nothing special, but it's a delightful memory I will never forget.

When I was in college, my sister and I organized Bingo nights at home exclusively for the family. It became a regular thing where my aunts and cousins would go to our house right after dinner to spend time with us and play. A bonding activity that made each of us closer in more ways than one, it’s one of the moments I wish I could bring back, to revive and sustain our warm relationship with relatives again.

I'm sure almost everyone has played Bingo at one point in their lives. Please feel free to share, I would love to hear your fond Bingo memories, too. =)

I Saw the Sign!

2011-11-09T01:41:00.000+08:00

My sister is finally doing the finishing touches of her bridals shop and office, after working on every minute detail of each element and design for almost year now. What can I say? She set her mind and heart to it years ago and for her, perfection is the only way to go, no matter how long it takes to achieve her dream.

She is still choosing furniture, frames and decorations, so it would probably take a few more months before she officially launches her shop to the public. But before that, she needs to finalize her product and service branding to complete its professional business personality. We are already brainstorming for a business sign that would embody the shop image that she wants to project. The symbol that we are envisioning represents a mixture of style and class without being too bold or intimidating.

While thinking of ways on how to execute the design of the signage, my mind couldn’t help but wander fast forward, to the time when her shop becomes well-known all over the country. It thrills me to visualize that she could already have one of those lovely bronze plaques attached to the exterior of the shop that gives the impression of professionalism, success and stability in the industry.

It's still premature to tell, but I believe so much in my sister because I know she has what it takes to make it big in any endeavor she wishes to pursue. Besides, a lot of positive thinking benefits any dream that is worth realizing, don't you think?

My Christmas List

2011-11-04T19:58:00.001+08:00

I have been really busy with my Christmas list lately, thinking of appropriate gifts for everybody. It’s barely a month away from the big holiday, I haven’t done any shopping yet and I’m already anxious at this point. Last week, I started writing the names of my family, relatives, friends, officemates, plus my little lady’s 11 teachers and 45 classmates. Yes, that is equal to almost a hundred things to shop!

While thinking of more people I might have missed adding to my already extensive list, I began scribbling gift suggestions opposite the names to maximize my time. What do they like? What will fit their personality? What do they need? These are just some of the factors that helped me come up with possible items that the recipients would actually love.

I don’t have a huge budget, so I have to rely on my creativity and shopping wisdom to source the best buys without draining my piggy bank. For example, as much as my generous heart would love to give iPhones this year, I think giving protective sleeves for iPhone instead, is a very practical gift any iPhone owner could have. My cousins who are also moms like myself, often complain about how their phones always get accidentally wet and sticky whenever their little tots are near. I think it would be a perfect gift for them, don't you agree?

Christmas for our family had always been a celebration of sharing. It makes us happy to see that the love we express through whatever we manage to give brings joy to those who receive them. I also believe that nothing should get in the way of showing people how much you appreciate them. And as always, believe that it’s the thought that matters, and what you heartily give is what really counts.

Winner of the Best Caption Goes to...!

2011-10-31T20:28:00.000+08:00

First of all, I would like to thank everyone for visiting and commenting on my JOHNSON's My Kid's Growing Up so Fast Contest post. And now, as promised, I am announcing the best photo caption among all your creative entries!

I asked a little help from my Little Lady and she chose this chic and catchy caption:

Congratulations MyMaria! Please respond to my email with your contact details. =)

Stress, Stress, Go Away!

2011-10-24T23:00:00.000+08:00

The main reason why I seldom watch the news is, although it’s packed with updated and live information, it’s also a great source of stress. I already have enough pressure in my life that came abundantly with parenting and being an adult, so I try to find ways on how to unload some of my anxieties and not to invite more in my life.

Sometimes I just want to lock myself in my favorite room, lounge in my cozy bed, grab a good book I’ve been meaning to read but couldn’t finish, sip steaming herbal infusion, and have a relaxing worry-free day. But since I could barely manage to have that whole package because of my hectic schedule, the most feasible thing that I could think of is to plug those in ear noise cancelling headphones I wished for my birthday, and shut out the world and its noise for even just a few moments each day. Maybe during break time at work or while doing chores at home, I think a pure dose of relaxing music will help a lot in keeping my sanity intact amid the hustle and bustle of everyday living.

How about you? When you feel overwhelmed and jaded with real world issues and responsibilities, what do you do?

What's your Passion?

2011-10-22T21:35:00.000+08:00

Sometimes, you don’t realize what you are truly passionate about until you discover what makes you happy.

When I was younger, I draw a lot. I was also amused with the idea of attaching my cutout facial photos and that of my cousins, to the bodies of Cindy Crawford and other famous celebrities. Yes, it may sound ridiculous, but I really did that in the past. So just imagine my happiness when I met Adobe Photoshop! Finally, I am able to execute my imagination digitally and manipulate it however I wish it to be.

At first, a friend taught me how to use the basic Photoshop tools, while I learned through observation and lots of practice. And because I am very interested in discovering how to achieve different effects, my impatience led me to develop my own ways on how to implement them without the aid of tutorials. True enough, if there’s a will, surely, there will be a way.

Soon after, designing became a regular part of my life because I’m always making projects personal and otherwise, for family and friends with utmost pleasure. I never thought that even calendar printing can be a breeze. I create the layouts and let the printing experts execute my designs to turn them into real and live works of art.

It’s truly fulfilling to do what you love and share your passion to others who in turn, appreciate it. So have you found your true love yet? If not, then follow where your heart leads you.

JOHNSON's My Kid's Growing Up so Fast Contest

2011-10-07T23:00:00.000+08:00

If I will be asked to cite one particular moment that changed my life, I’d beam and say it’s that beautiful thing called 'motherhood'. It turned my life around 720 degrees, and I wouldn’t want to have it any other way. I’ll do it over and over again, because it has brought into my existence a wonderful, almost magical being that is worth all the treasure in the world. Okay, I might have sugar-coated it a tiny bit, but this ‘wonderful almost magical being’ can also be the annoying, demanding little rascal that is also adorable all at the same time (just like any real kid). And I love her to bits!

Aside from the usual important baby stuff that parents arm themselves with after bringing a new baby into this world, one of the first things I invested in is a point-and-shoot camera. I find it indispensable and an absolute must-have in every baby’s life to capture every single moment - from the smallest to the biggest milestones, to eternalize each smile, temper or tantrum that make a child charmingly unique.

My little 10 year old girl Chestene has gigabytes of photos I collected through the years. Some have survived the frequent crashing of my computer, while some I am lucky to recover from social networking sites I feverishly post her photos on regularly, to share with everyone.

Yes, I became a stagemom at heart, right from the moment I saw her first ‘superstar’ toothless smile. =)

Whenever I look back and browse over her photos all through those 10 memorable years, I think about this: My kid's growing up so fast I still can’t help but be amazed on how she has transformed into the beautiful person she is today, inside and out – loving, sweet, thoughtful, smart, generous, optimistic and all great things rolled into one. Truly, a gift from God.

Time flies extremely fast, so I cherish every moment of her childhood and innocence. And despite my hectic schedule, I try to bond with her whenever I can. Whether it's trying new restaurants, hanging out in our favorite bookstore, drawing and painting, or a trip to the salon for some pampering, I make sure she enjoys every minute of our time together.

At her tender age, she already has so many dreams she couldn’t wait to achieve. She wanted to become a model and she did, for real, starting from the age of 6:

National Bookstore Calendar

Smart Parenting Magazine

NIDO Billboard

She wanted to be the cover of her favorite magazine and Mommy made it happen on her 6th birthday:

She wanted to be Hannah Montana and be a rockstar, and she did, during her 7th birthday party where she had her 1st concert:

She loves to write, so I helped her set up her very own blog, DeCaFFeiNaTeD, where she shares her online diary to the world. Her blog has gotten quite popular, earning a blog page rank of 2 and oftentimes landing on the 1st page of Google:

This year she wanted to be Sharpay Evans even for a day, and so she did on her 10th birthday:

She is changing before my eyes but her skin is still like a baby's. We still need the gentle care of JOHNSON's Baby Milk, with Vitamins A&E and 100% more milk proteins to nourish developing skin.

So whether she wants to become a model, actress, singer, writer, scientist, Miss Universe or the future president of this country, as early as now, I like her to know that Mommy would be behind her every step of the way until she realizes every single dream she has set her mind and heart on, and becomes the best of what she could ever be.

_______________________________________________________________________

Comment on this post and win a Johnson’s Gift Pack!

Joining is soooo easy:

1. "Like" the Johnson's Baby World of Firsts Facebook Page to be eligible for this contest.

2. Create one unique title/caption for my little girl’s photo above (as Sharpay).

Don't forget to leave your name and email so I can contact you in case you win. That’s it! Please share with your friends so they too, can give it a shot. =)

Commenting period starts on October 8 and ends on October 21. The winning caption will be announced on October 31, 2011. Thank you and goodluck!

Mega 3-Day Sale at SM Megamall

2011-04-28T01:37:00.003+08:00

SM Mega 3-day Sale

Up to 70% off on selected items!

April 29 - May 1, 2011, until 11:00 PM

SM Megamall

*SM Makati is on sale too!*

Reader's Digest Easter Egg Hunt Contest

2011-04-13T00:15:00.005+08:00

Terms and Conditions

~ The contest is open to all residents in Asia.
~ Free to join. No purchase is required.
~ Winners may not transfer prize rights nor obtain substitutions or cash redemptions.
~ All entries must be received by 11:59 pm on April 29, 2011.
~ Eight winners (2 winners per egg) will be drawn and announced on May 16, 2011.

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