Relentless Karla

Sitting Pretty

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Thu, 03 Oct 2013 07:05:00 +0000

A guaranteed seat on the train (Mass Rapid Transport) or on the bus in Singapore was one of the perks I enjoyed the most whilst I was pregnant.

Of course when I say guaranteed, uhm what I really mean is, not really! Especially early on in the pregnancy. I used to wave around my ultrasound scans on the train just so someone will give up a seat for me. Nope, it didn't work.

Perhaps I should have bought a badge - I'm PREGNANT! Even that probably wouldn't have worked either.

Photo Credit: Gordonator

Yes, that golden I mean red or blue Priority Seat on the MRT and buses, even when I looked like I was about to burst I still had to fight for it!

As my bump grew more and more I thought it would get easier. I would gullibly wait for someone to offer me a seat. 40 minutes later I've reached my destination and I'll come out of the train fuming because no one's offered me a seat. And trust me, you wouldn't have wanted to cross my path. When hormones are flying all over the place, it ain't pretty!

A few times I was tempted to poke people with my bump so they'll "wake-up" from pretending to sleep or pretending to be very busy doing whatever they're doing on their smartphones.

My guess, Diamond Dash. Candy Crush only got popular later on.

I'm naturally big boned. And to be honest, with my gigantic bump as you can see from this picture. I have no bloody idea why I've suddenly become invisible!

Taken at 35 weeks, just 1 week before
H & I made an appearance

As I've had more practice, my strategies and tactics changed. I would only target the men though just in case I asked a woman to move out of the way and they're also pregnant. Can you imagine? That would be very awkward.

I found that the most effective tactic was a direct approach. Tap them a few times on the shoulders and then I would say loudly "Excuse me, do you mind?" then I would flash them my sweetest smile then point to my bump. Worked like a charm!

So why am I rambling about this now?

Just a few minutes ago a kind woman, (bless her heart) offered me her seat on the bus. I muttered "No, thank you" through gritted teeth. In actuality I wanted to bitch slap her. Hello, I'm 11 months post-partum!

Maybe I should have just taken the seat and pretended to rub my "bump" as I sat down.

Damn you Ben & Jerry's!

Getting Back Into Shape

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Tue, 01 Oct 2013 04:58:00 +0000

I was reflecting on the bus on my way to work this morning and I had a sudden itch to revive my blog. So how's everyone been? It's the final quarter of the year. Well hello there October. Bloody hell where did 2013 go?

2013 just flew by. Whilst I watch the world go by, I've been juggling motherhood, work and planning our near future. The little monkeys have grown so fast and sprouted some teeth and more hair. I think I got so used to seeing toothless grins and bald heads that it sort of freaks me a out a bit when I see their toothy little grins and their heads with hair now.

Back in January I remember proudly posting the below photo on Facebook. Our first family portrait. There were a few lovely comments and one not so, errr lovely. Mind you that was probably the first time I heard from her in over 15 years. She said – friend, you are fat (a loose translation, as she wrote in Filipino). Say what? I was stunned for a moment, surely she's not being serious. So I looked at the photo again.

I was livid! Was it really necessary? For goodness sake, I just popped out 2 human beings into this world just 11 weeks prior and I was expected to be stick thin? Admittedly I was 86.5 kg at 36 weeks just before I gave birth and around the time the picture was taken I was down to 72kg.

So I lost 14.5kg in a space of 11 weeks on top of a few birth complications and a delivery that almost cost me my life and apparently that wasn’t enough!

It's really sad and unfair that women are pressured to look like their pre-pregnancy selves as soon as they've delivered as if nothing has happened! The media doesn't help either. Plastered photos of say Miranda Kerr 1 week post-birth on the internet and magazines is enough to push anyone into depression.

Perhaps it was the cocktail of sleepless nights, stress of first time parenthood, breastfeeding/expression and crazy amped hormones that I lost all that water and weight at 7 weeks post-partum I was down to 72kg. Then the girls started sleeping through at 3 months old and the weight slowly crept back in. Come June my weight went up to 80kg, I was in denial and was totally unhappy with myself. I would come home after work and I barely had any energy to play with my girls.

I wasn't too bothered with the vanity side – well, maybe a little. I was looking at the big picture, really I was more worried of the health risks. Coming from a family with history of high blood pressure and diabetes and alarm bells ringing in my head. I had to do something.

I stumbled on a forum thread where people are posting what had happened to Filipino celebrities that are no longer in the limelight. There was this chubby girl in a Purefood hotdog commercial, Chantal Umali, apparently she's lost a lot of weight. I quickly goggled her and I came across a photo posted by her Aunt.

Photo Credit: Vivian Zapanta

A before/after photo of Chantal that totally astounded me. I later found Chantal's blog and since Tumblr doesn’t have a monthly archive, I patiently went through every page backwards. I was very interested to read her journey through her blogs and photos. Her transformation inspired me, not just in a physical sense but in another way that I can't totally pen down. I thought if Chantal can do it, then I can do it too!

Now I understand. It's not just about weight loss, it's a lifestyle. So slowly I started making a conscious effort to eat more healthily. I also started doing yoga at home in front of the telly thanks to Tara Stiles YouTube videos. Eventually I bought a set of Tara Stiles DVD as it's a bit distracting trying to click from video to video every 10 minutes on YouTube in between poses.

I read that it takes 21 days to form a habit. So I challenged myself to do 21 days straight of yoga, I woke up at 6am – an hour earlier than I normally would to practice yoga in my living room. I started 8th July. So far I've done 11 days straight including weekends twice with 3 days breaks in between. In summary I practiced total 20 days in July, 12 days in August and only 5 days in September since I've suffered from tonsillitis.

Now it's the 1st of October, time to kick-off the 21-day challenge again. Hopefully now that I have documented it, it will give me more motivation to push myself further.

By the way, I know I said it's not about weight loss. And no, I'm not being hypocritical nor am I trying to justify myself. So far I am happier, I feel less lethargic and I have more energy to play with my girls, I feel less aches and pains and I've lost 10kg in the process. And believe me, losing weight is just a bonus.

Years and years of neglecting and not listening to my body, I know I still have a long way to go. But at least it's a start.

Easter Bunnies

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 12:29:00 +0000

April Fool's Day once again. I still can't quite believe that the prank post I posted last year that I was pregnant would backfire on me.

I was in fact 5 weeks pregnant upon writing it. I swear I had no idea that I was with child. Later that week we found out we were expecting not just one but TWO! Mother Nature definitely has a sense of humour.

Or maybe it was my subconscious telling me. Some sort of premonition perhaps or simply a woman's instinct.

I better not do a prank post this year in case it comes true again. Haha

Hope you all had a lovely break. Wishing everyone a blessed Easter!

In Her Shoes

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Sun, 03 Mar 2013 17:59:00 +0000

My mother is a gentle person with a huge heart who always sees the good in people and I've always looked up to her. She taught me to be forgiving and to always look at life from different perspectives, to always put myself in other people's shoes.

When I look into my daughters eyes I am filled with worry that I will not be able to protect them all the time. Now I finally know why my Mom worries even up until now that I'm 31! Now I finally know the answers to a lot of things I used to just wonder about. I guess I had to be in my Mom's "shoes" before I could fully understand the meaning of true love from a Mother's perspective.

I found a blog entry I wrote in 2005 about parenting. (Confession alert!) Before I became a parent my biggest worry and fear was that I will not be a good parent. Unknowingly my Mom has prepared me all my life all along.

To the incredible woman who gave me life, thank you for all your love and nurture. For making me the person I am today. I will always be your little girl. And as an added bonus you have an additional two little girls from me and Mark. =)

Happy birthday Grandma! We love you so much.

Blessed Birthday

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 16:59:00 +0000

Today as I turn 31, I couldn't really ask for anything more.

I've been given the greatest gift of all, my soulmate & my angels. They complete me.

Thank you Lord for all the blessings! I will be forever grateful.

To everyone who sent their love, thank you for taking the time and for making my birthday extra special!

Love you all!
xoxo

Birthday Give-Away

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 04:30:00 +0000

Do you participate in contests?

I normally don't because I never seem to ever win anything anyway. Having said that, a couple of weeks ago I joined a contest by @expediasg and a few days later I received 2 complimentary movie passes to Cloud Atlas. Yay!

Shame we can't use it though, Mark and I are solely looking after our girls and unless one of you volunteers to babysit then the tickets will go to waste. And we don't want that to happen now do we?

Photo Credit: Golden Village

Since it's my birthday next week, I'm giving away the tickets to 1 lucky *winner.

Simple mechanics. Just 'like' the link I will post on facebook then Holly and Isla will help me pick the winner and will announce it tomorrow, 31st Jan 2013 at 8pm.
Easy peasy! Good luck!

*Only applicable to residents of Singapore.

Welcoming 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Mon, 31 Dec 2012 13:17:00 +0000

My, my! Where did 2012 go?

On my 2011 year-end entry didn't I tell you 2012 was going to be grand? I must be psychic as this year definitely topped my 2011!

Next year will be a busy one for me as a new mum. With my twin girls I will have my hands full, literally! Watching them grow everyday is magical. It's a feeling like no other I've felt before!

As 2013 approaches, I would like to wish you all a blessed and bountiful new year. Let us all welcome 2013 with a BANG!

Photo Credit: Hello Giggles

The Greatest Gift

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Tue, 25 Dec 2012 04:55:00 +0000

You're probably wondering where I've been all this time. I never meant to abandon my blog however my hands have been full in the last few months. Remember that April Fools entry I posted Bun in the Oven? Well what do you know. Turned out the joke was on me!

I've recently just added another role to my resume.

Relentless Karla is now a Relentless Mum to a beautiful identical twin girls Holly and Isla! Born on 8th November at 36 weeks via emergency caesarian section.

I've always dreamt of having identical girls since I've come across Sweet Valley Twins when I was a girl. As they say, careful what you wish for, it might come true. And in my case it certainly did! Honestly I thought I had more chances of winning the lottery. Having said that, my girls are way priceless compared to any lottery jackpot. I'm truly well blessed!

The pregnancy was a bit tough with a couple of premature labour scares and a few complications here and there. I tell you, no one's ever told me pregnancy is not how many make you believe it is. I didn't have the pregnant glow instead I had morning sickness up until 18 weeks and I didn't have much appetite apart from cake, ice cream, calamansi and sardines! Weird combination I know. Anyway, I also started bloating up like a hippo with severe water retention. By week 24, people were already asking me if I was due any day!

The girls were both head down by week 28 and it was such a struggle for me to move about. I just felt really heavy. And that's probably because I was! I went to the toilet through the night almost every half an hour. Due to complications I was put on bed rest. Even then I didn't have the energy to catch up on my blog. I initially intended to do a pregnancy journal but never got round to doing it. Instead when I could I catched up on sleep.

The greatest gift during this festive season is having family around and giving love not just at Christmas but everyday.

12 years today my Grandma passed on and Christmas has never been the same for me and my Mum. But this year our Christmas is extra special. Look what we found under our Christmas tree. Double the joy!

Wishing you all a very happy Christmas and a bountiful 2013!

Summer Sunshine

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Mon, 28 May 2012 15:01:00 +0000

Greetings from the beautiful island of Boracay!

I know I've been completely slack lately and believe me I have a very valid excuse. Anyway, hope you're all well.Now let me share with you one of my most favourite places in the world.

It's been almost 3 years since I've last set foot in the island. Although I've been here a few times, this is the first time I've felt a tad alienated. Maybe it was because of the massive Sunday crowd that shocked me upon arrival or the countless loud tricycles that seemed to have taken over every road that's at least a meter wide.

Thank goodness there is one thing that will never be taken away regardless of how commercialised this place gets, the Boracay Sunset! It's insanely beautiful it looks like someone took a massive brush and started painting the skies. Apart from South Africa, Boracay still has one of the most beautiful sunsets I've ever seen.Just the perfect place to cap off the summer and celebrate Mark's 30th birthday.

Now excuse me whilst I go and grab yet another Mango Milkshake to cool me off and read the rest of my book under the coconut tree by the beach. Ciao!

Social Media and Cyber Bullying

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 04:35:00 +0000

"No one can make you feel inferior without your consent"
- Eleanor Roosevelt

Photo Credit: Adam Smith

Bullying has taken on a new form thanks to modern technology and social media. Cyber bullies believe they can get away by hiding under anonymous identities and worse for the more bold, using their own identities. Freedom of speech is what makes Social Media popular wherein we are all free to say whatever we want to say. Some unfortunately abuse this kind of power. As individuals we have a moral responsibility in using these type of media.

I recall a few months back I posted a picture of me on Facebook which was taken at the Pole Studio albeit I didn't find it offensive, bearing in mind that in this day and age most people still considers the art of pole as taboo, I had my concerns. So I showed the picture to a few friends prior to posting it and they all agreed with me that the picture was not in any way "malaswa" or vulgar.

A girl from my hometown thought otherwise and messaged me privately asking me to delete the picture. I messaged her back and told her to take me off her list since she found my post offensive. I did her a favour and immediately deleted and blocked her. I then ranted on Facebook about it.

I appreciate that I can't please everyone. Looking back, she did ask me nicely and over Private Message no less so maybe I shouldn't have deleted her hastily off my list. Maybe she did mean well. Maybe I was asking for it. Maybe I shouldn't have posted that picture in the first place although I didn't see any reason why not, afterall it was my picture and my account.

Does it sound familiar? We see a lot of rift daily on Facebook and Twitter where people openly bash each other. It somehow reminds me of High School really. But at least in those scenarios once you're away from school, you're safe. This time round it's more personal and it's open to anyone who has access to the world wide web.

A few weeks back I was invited to a newly created group on Facebook, a High School Alumni group. Since I knew the creator of the group, I thought "What a great idea to reconnect people!". I was amused when I saw a couple of old photos plastered all over the wall. The hard copies of the pictures were mine. My bestfriend scanned and posted them a while back on her FB profile. I didn't protest since I knew her profile was limited and it wasn't only pictures of me but pictures of her as well, it was all in good jest. Fast forward and the same photos were posted in a group open to everyone without our permission. Fine, everyone knew what we looked like back then anyway so I took it all in good stride, until I saw the captions. Still I let it go. Well, not entirely. I had loads of old photos so I decided if you can't beat them, join them! I posted a few old pictures on the wall myself. Though mine was with the intention of sharing the old photos without humiliating anyone.

The group has attracted a lot of members all of which are alumni and teachers. I found it a bit concerning that some of the threads were getting out of hand. One example; a teacher welcoming us and giving the alumni support. It had over 90 comments, 95% of which were irrelevant to the main post and some a bit inappropriate.

My phone's Facebook notification is turned on so each and every new post and comment on the group mostly nonsense, was being pushed to my phone. A couple of days ago on my way to work I saw a member posting a picture of Gollum. Only the face was replaced by a member's face. One would think the admin will take action but instead they started a contest. They posted more photos, this time more discriminating. Contest was whoever gets the more likes and comments wins a P300 phone credit. How it is relevant to the purpose of the group I have no clue whatsoever.

I'm afraid words are not enough to give justice in describing the images I'm referring to so I apologise in advance for posting the images. (faces are blocked to protect the individual)

Talk about degrading women, especially bigger built women. How on earth that's acceptable as a form of joke I still can't fully comprehend. Being a full figure woman myself I find the above images revolting and downright disgusting!

Surprisingly though no one said anything. I was concerned since this group was using our Alma Mater's name. One thing that we must remember is that bullies only succeeds when we let them. I decided to use my freedom of speech and posted the below on the wall. I genuinely meant well for the sake of the School which the group is supposedly representing. Pardon the mixed language, I thought it would be easily more understood that way.

Just a quick constructive criticism. Sana waray may ma-offend ha iyo. Posting discriminating and unflattering pics ha BMNHS Alumni Group is irrelevant to the group page plus it makes the group page look tacky and less credible. Plus it's considered bullying which I believe is a serious offence. I thought the main idea of creating the group was to reminisce and reconnect not make fun of each other and himuon na chat room it kada thread. Amo ngani mayda PM. Looking back at the wall posts if mayda nag post hin relevant na announcement or comment d na hikit-an kay matatabunan la hit iba na posts. Saka kaya nga mayda Admin d ba para mayda mag administer ngan mayda ma control hit quality hit group page and to set as a good example! On that note, I'm leaving the group.

Here's the loose translation.

Just a quick constructive criticism. I hope I don't offend anyone. Posting discriminating and unflattering pics on the BMNHS Alumni Group is irrelevant to the group page plus it makes the group page look tacky and less credible. Plus it's considered bullying which I believe is a serious offence. I thought the main idea of creating the group was to reminisce and reconnect not make fun of each other and use threads like a chat room, hence PM was created for tha. Looking back at the wall posts if someone's posted a relevant announcement or comment it will just get buried. And the main reason I thought of having Admin was so someone can administer and control the quality of the group page and to set as a good example! On that note, I'm leaving the group.

Few minutes after I left the group, I saw notifications popping up on my phone. Surprise, surprise! I wasn't the only one with the same sentiments. Few likes and valid comments after my post was conveniently deleted! Another member reposted my post and yet again it was deleted. Clearly it wasn't just me who wanted change. So why delete my post? Obviously their way of silencing me.

Below apparently is the reply to my post. Somehow it sounds like a challenge or a threat to me, what do you reckon? (again loosely translated into English)

This group was created so all the alumni can get to know each other. Anyone can post as long as it's not rude. It's natural in a group to comment and throw banter at each other. Let's not get all too serious because even individuals who have big name's in the professional field can still joke with each other. To those people who doens't like this group you are free to leave and we won't beg you to stay. If you plan to report this group then it's your call. Goodluck to everyone who opposes.

So anyone can post whatever as long as you don't oppose? No wonder my post was deleted. It's sad how we sometimes try to do the right thing and it gets thrown back at our face. Perhaps if they didn't delete my post and instead they let the other members decide and voice out their opinion on the matter as well for the greater good of the group then maybe they would have understood what I meant by constructive criticism.

And in case I'm not making myself clear enough, here's Wiki's definition of constructive criticism;

Constructive Criticism - are often suggestions for improvement, how things could be done better or more acceptably. They draw attention to how an identified problem could be solved, or how it could be solved better.

And with that, I rest my case.

- Relentless Karla -

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Bun in the Oven

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 08:20:00 +0000

I have an announcement. Pay attention because I will only say it once.

Well, the title is already pretty much a give away.

I'M PREGNANT!

Just kidding.

HAPPY APRIL FOOL'S DAY!

*Disclaimer - Although IF I really am preggers then the joke's on me! *gulp*

- Relentless Karla -

Earth Hour 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 03:44:00 +0000

UNITING PEOPLE TO SAVE THE PLANET

EARTH HOUR 2012

Saturday, 31st March

8.30pm

WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO DO TO SAVE THE PLANET?

Earth Hour has done a lot to raise awareness of sustainability issues. But there’s more to it than switching off lights for one hour once a year. It’s all about giving people a voice and working together to create a better future for our planet.

Be a part of the largest environmental movement!

HOW WILL YOU GO BEYOND THE HOUR?

- Relentless Karla -

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Abangers Reunited

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:18:00 +0000

A year had passed since I posted Never Say Goodbye. So much has happened in just one year. We've all been busy with our own lives although thanks to technology (Skype, Whatsapp, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter etc.) we have managed to stay in touch despite the time differences and hectic schedules.

We have visited Jacs in Bangkok back in September, Brigette came to visit us briefly in Singapore back in October and the Japps sans Twyla also came to visit last week.

Seeing Chatta and Andrew again after a year was a bit surreal. Chatta wearing her usual Singapore tropical gear i.e. denim shorty shorts and a tank top greeted me with a delighted "Mars!" and a tight hug when I opened our frontdoor.

No sign of freezing Melbourne! Well, apart from Andrew wearing jeans instead of his usual shorts and he had a jacket in hand. Somehow if it wasn't for the huge pink/purple hard case, it almost felt like they've only just come from Jurong where they used to live and not from Australia. It also only felt like yesterday when we saw them off and flooded Changi Terminal 3 with tears. *sigh* How time flies!

Everyone left behind, including me and Mark seemed to have moved on and carried on with our lives, separately. We don't see each other as much as we used to or do things together as often as we used to anymore.

A large group of individuals with different huge personalities in one word is HARDWORK. But that's what makes Abangers unique. It's amazing how each one of us gels together however much different we are from each other. We're like the United Nations. We might sometimes disagree but we have the bond that is thicker than any glue combined. It takes immense effort to preserve what we have and though we may have had our differences, at the end of the day friendship always prevails.

We planned a reunion dinner and it was a success although we weren't complete. Again it was like we've never been apart. All "tampo" if there ever was, melted away. Just like old times we were full of laughter reminiscing about our adventures and mis-adventures together. We're always the loudest and the last ones to leave a place. We've gotten used to the annoyed looks from other people dining. To be honest, we hardly really notice as we are so engrossed taking pictures and chattering away.

We then had a BBQ pool party last Saturday and it was another epic Abangers get-together. Nevermind the food fail thanks to me. We compensated with lots of alcohol and playing like children in the water. Imagine Sander's water gun filled with pure Vodka and the boys taking in turns in giving us "shots" using the gun. Unleashing the inner children in us. The security was not amused seeing us dunking each other in the pool. Thank goodness for 5-warnings-before-they-call-the-police policy!

It was a FUN-filled weekend as always. Although a bit bitter sweet because we know it's only temporary. But then again, never say goodbye. It's always, until we meet again.

- Relentless Karla -

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South Africa: The Garden Route Roadtrip Round-up

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 14:59:00 +0000

And it's a wrap!

We've just arrived at our hotel in Cape Town. As they say, all good things must come to an end. Tonight sadly is our last night in South Africa. Amazing how 10 days just went by. Time goes quicker when you're having fun and we definitely had a trip of a lifetime!

It's been a fun-filled and memorable 6 days/5 nights. We've covered over 1,700 kilometres and been to so many places and seen so many amazing things!

It felt more like Amazing Race spending most of our time in the Ford Figo we have rented for the duration of our South Africa trip and we tried fitting in as much as we could and I think we have done pretty well. We've only missed Boulder's beach where the penguins are and the wine tour. And we didn't see the Cape Buffalo to complete the big 5. Although we did see the African Elephant, Rhinoceros, Lion and the elusive Leopard. Though I think the Leopard doesn't really count since it was in a Rehabilitation Centre and not in the wild.

Oh well, I guess that's more reason to come back!

The car must be pretty knackered now especially after we found ourselves in a dirt road in the middle of nowhere for over 110km yesterday! But that's another story.

Here's a quick summary of our roadtrip;

Day 1: Bloubergstrand - Knysna 497km

Day 2: Knysna - Jeffrey's Bay 195km

Day 3: Jeffrey's Bay - Schotia Game Reserve Safari (Port Elizabeth) 145km

Day 4: Schotia Game Reserve Safari - Mossel Bay 425km

Day 5: Mossel Bay - Cape Agulhas - Hermanus 388km

Day 6: Hermanus - Cape Town 121km

Photo Credits: Google Maps App for iPhone

I guess that's it for now. As they say in Afrikaans, TOTSIENS!

- Relentless Karla -

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Sawubona from South Africa

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 08:58:00 +0000

Hallo! Greetings from South Africa.

Just about to check out from Rockhaven Guest House where we've stayed at with friends and family for 2 nights during the wedding of Mark's brother, James.

Bloubergstrand is a gorgeous seaside town with magnificent views of Table Mountain and Robben Island. And world famous for kite and wind surfing. It's amazing how Table Mountain can be seen from almost anywhere in Cape Town. It looks really magical especially when the top is covered with clouds.

The water is so blue and looks so inviting! Shame about the sharks. There are warning signs on the beach which to say the least would be wise to abide to unless you fancy a Jaw episode. *queue Jaw theme tune* I went in for a paddle though, I just couldn't resist it. The water is freezing cold! My toes went numb after seconds of getting in contact with the water. Brrrr!

Photo Credit: Mark

Shame about the kelps as well. Kelps are brown/black long branches of seaweed which I've never seen before in my life. The Philippine seaweed in Bantayan Island was definitely tame compared to the one's in Cape Town.

There are loads of seagulls hanging about. They bring mussels to the beach and opens them by banging it on the rocks and then they leave the shells behind. You'll tread on them as they're everywhere!

We had a lovely time in Cape Town with family and friends who came all the way from Australia, England, Singapore and Holland to attend and witness James and Juli's wedding yesterday. Saying goodbye is the hardest part.

Enough chitchat for now. We have to get going. Off to start our road trip through The Garden Route. First stop is Knysna, a 503km drive from Bloubergstrand.

Cheerio!

- Relentless Karla -

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Always Will Be

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 05:29:00 +0000

Exactly a year ago I wrote the most candid letter about the meaning of true love for everyone to see.

Every post I write in this blog is from the heart and whilst some have made me shed a tear or two in the process of writing them, writing anything about Mom on the other hand always ends up in buckets of tears, though in a good way. I always get an overwhelming feeling of love and sense of pride so unexplainable that even a thousand words can't come close to make sense of what I'm feeling.

Back when I was younger I would get picked on for not having a Dad and being a product of a "broken family". To be honest I didn't see what the fuss was about. As far as I was concerned my Mom's love and care surpassed any two parents can give that I didn't feel any void. My Mom's brought me up single handedly with my grandmother's help. They were my Yin and Yang, my solid rock!

Mom taught me that when the whole world says I can't, instead of giving up, the best response is to look them in the eye and say "WATCH ME!". She was the one who told me its ok to dream big and that whatever I set my mind to I can achieve through hard work and perseverance, that life is what I make it to be.

She also taught me the importance of saying please and thank you and to forgive people who have wronged me and to not hold a grudge and that what other people may say doesn't matter as long as I'm true to myself.

Today, my Mom celebrates yet another birthday with us. I thank God everyday for blessing me with a Mother with a love so pure, not just to her own children but to everyone.

Photo Credits: Mark

To my everdearest Mamsi,

Today on your birthday I wish you nothing but good health.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the bestest Mother on earth!

I love you so much Mommy!

your little girl
and always will be forever,

Eday

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1st Anniversary Giveaway Winner

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 15:43:00 +0000

Cassie's ~~hand~~ paw-picked the lucky winner!

And the winner of Relentless Karla's 1st Anniversary Giveaway is....

cheskagabilo

As Cassie is feeling rather generous, she's decided to give away

extra bonus prizes of Sports Armband each to;

Lucky King Dubai, UAE

Saralyn Singapore

itsmemarsvisp Philippines

GirlsRunTheWorld Philippines

Congratulations Ladies!

Please DM me your full names and postal addresses on Twitter @kstride27.

Kindly indicate which armband colour you prefer, see choices at my Online Store.

Many thanks for joining my first ever blog giveaway.

I've enjoyed reading all your entries & comments.

Until next time!

- Relentless Karla -

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How to Apply for a South African Visa in Singapore

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 15:33:00 +0000

Having a Filipino Passport is a pain ~~most of the time~~ sometimes especially where Visa Applications are concerned. If you're Filipino, I'm sure you know where I'm coming from.

When it was announced that South Africa would be hosting the 2010 World Cup, I wondered if I will need a visa to go to there. Not because I wanted to watch the World Cup but at the back of my mind I knew I will go and visit one day.

AND THAT DAY HAS COME!

Mark's brother is getting married in Cape Town next month and we're invited! I googled if there's an Embassy in Singapore. There isn't. There is however a High Commission office. I found a link online but it only has trade and investment information. There is a link to the South African High Commission's homepage but it doesn't work. I tried ringing for a few days but there was no answer. I have searched high and low online for the relevant information and all I found was contradicting stories on forums whether Filipinos require a visa or not to enter South Africa. Very frustrating! Chances are, the reason you are probably reading this post is because you've found yourself in the same situation.

Requirements for Visitor's Visa Application

(applicable only to Filipinos living and working in Singapore)

Completed Application Form BI-84 in black ink.

2 identical Passport photos

Passport - should be valid for no less than 30 days after the expiry of intended visit with two (2) unused pages

Status in Singapore: PR Card / Blue IC / Employment Pass* / Work Permit* (*to be referred)

Proof of onward travel (air/sea transport ticket or road transport)

Proof of admissibility in the foreign country of onward ticket

Confirmation of accommodation at a hotel/guest house, OR a letter from your South African host with SA ID number, indicating that he/she invited you, the address where you will stay and certified copy of his/her ID book/passport.

Holiday Purposes - Please provide the following:

a letter from your company in Singapore confirming your employment
confirmation letter of your tour or booked holiday
Bank Statements for a period of the last 3 months

South African High Commission

331 North Bridge Road

Odeon Towers 15th Floor

Singapore 188720

Tel. #: (65) 6339 3319

Fax. #: (65) 6339 6658

How to Apply

Lodge your application at the office of the South African High Commission upon completion of all required documents between 9am-12 noon Mondays to Fridays except during Singapore and South African Public Holidays.

Processing Time: Five (5) full working days

Visa Fees: FREE of charge for Filipinos applying for a visitor's visa for less than 30 days. If you are travelling for more than 30 days, a fee of S$84 shall be paid in cash upon submission of application.

Once you have submitted all required documents, a claim stub indicating the date of collection will be given to you. Keep this safe as you will need to show the slip when you collect your Passport. Please note that collection time is only between 1530-1630 hours.

There you go. Easy as pie!

Now excuse me whilst I practice my Waka Waka dance.

♪ ♫ Tsamina mina zangalewa

'Cause this is Africa

Tsamina mina eh eh

Waka Waka eh eh

Tsamina mina zangalewa

This time for Africa ♪ ♫

P.S. Cut-off for my 1st Anniversary Give-away is at 1800 hours SG time tomorrow, Wednesday 29th Feb. Few hours to go so if you haven't yet, join and enter now! I will announce the winner just before midnight.

- Relentless Karla -

BBC 3 Documentary: Alex - A Life Fast Forward

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 05:38:00 +0000

Back in July last year I posted an entry Living Life to the Fullest. It eventually landed on BBC 3's website and since then it has been Relentless Karla's top post for over 7 months now. Clearly, it wasn't just I who was touched by the remarkable story of Alex Lewis' short albeit sweet life. Every week I get reminded by Alex whenever I see the hits in my blog and however bad my day has been it never fails to cheer me up.

In 2011 I tried a lot of things that scared me and pushed myself out of my comfort zone and it was one of the best years of my life! Unconsciously I was partly doing it because after watching Alex's story it made me realise more how blessed I am to be healthy and alive. And even though I didn't know Alex personally, I felt like I owed it to him.

I mentioned in my post last year that I was dis-appointed that the documentary wasn't more mainstream as I believe it needs more recognition and should be seen by the masses. Today, I was so ecstatic to finally have found a copy of the full documentary on YouTube. I hope more people see's the video and hopefully it will help The Bone Cancer Research Trust to create more awareness about the rare form of cancer Osteosarcoma. Alex agreed to do the documentary for that purpose and his family was kind enough to share their angel Alex to the world. So please do me a favour. Watch the video below and share it to everyone you know and here's to hoping that they will do the same too. This is my little way of helping to keep Alex's legacy alive.

This documentary and Alex's life story changed my life forever. I hope it changes yours too. Gezzelig!

Video Credit: Kaleb 15000

HUGE THANK YOU to ANDRE aka Kaleb 15000 for allowing me to share the video.

- Relentless Karla -

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1st Anniversary Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 14:30:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Google Images

As mentioned in my last post, today is a very special day for me as it marks Relentless Karla's first birthday. Thus, I will be giving away a gift 'lot' to one of my readers. If only I can give everyone gifts to show my love and appreciation for all the support, I would!

ARE YOU READY?

An all expense paid round the world trip.
Just kidding! Wouldn't it be nice though eh? Maybe on my 10th blogversary. Only one can hope.

The Prizes

1 x Bra bag

1 x H&M necklace

1 x Accessorize earrings

1 x iPhone/iTouch Sports armband

(courtesy of MarkRuns)

bonus prize

~~Cassie~~

How to Join

1. Tell me where your ultimate dream travel destination is and give me 3 reasons for your choice. Please leave your answer on the comment section below the post.

2. That's it. Easy peasy eh?

Guidelines

- Only 1 winner will win the prize lot.

- The giveaway is international so anyone can join.

- Names of contestants will be written on a piece of tissue and Cassie will help me pick the winner.

- Closing date is on 29 Feb 2012. I will announce the winner in a new blog post.

Cassie shredding tissues - your entries are in safe ~~hands~~ paws - she's a pro!

GOODLUCK!

- Relentless Karla -

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Relentless Karla turns ONE!

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 04:13:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Koopok Blog

One year ago I contemplated starting a travel blog to document my wanderlust. Thinking it wasn't time yet, I decided to start an "online diary" instead wherein I can practice channeling my thoughts into ~~paper~~ virtual pad.

I hardly realised it has been a year since I have setup this blog until I received an e-mail notification recently reminding me that my domain renewal was up.

Reconnecting with my first love which is writing has brought me so much joy. Little did I know that this blog would make a huge impact in my life. It has been an amazing year! Relentless Karla has helped me focus, re-align my priorities, face my fears and fulfil my dreams.

Almost 60 posts, 12 months and nearing on 18, 000 hits later and here we are, Relentless Karla turns ONE!

Bloody hell. 18, 000 hits! *excuse me whilst I faint*. It's quite humbling to see that much hits in just 1 year, unless of course majority of that turns out to be my Mother then that's entirely a different story altogether!

Thank you ever so much from the bottom of my heart for all your love and support and for taking the time to read my posts.

THANK YOU for being a part of my journey. Gezzelig!

*Watch out for my 1st anniversary giveaway on my next post!

- Relentless Karla -

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When Nature Calls

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:47:00 +0000

Warning: If you're easily grossed out, please don't read any further.

It was a lovely day for a day-trip to Mount Pinatubo. I didn't have much sleep the night before since we came back quite late from Cebu and had to meet a friend for a late dinner. Apart from lack of sleep I was actually feeling very well and excited.

The hour long 4x4 trip was not as bad as I thought it would be. It was quite smooth apart from some bumps when going down streams. Not sure if it was the bumps that triggered it but soon as we started the 2.5 hour hike I felt a cramp in my stomach. The pain was so unbearable that it would stop me in my tracks. I looked around me, I was quite astounded at the sight surrounding me. It was like how I imagined the moon would look like - vast empty space of land. Or in this case, remnants of a twenty year old lahar.

Photo Credit: Mumay

We carried on walking for over an hour, slowing down whenever my cramps would come back. Also to catch our breath. We prayed for great weather and our prayers were heard. The sun was out however since we were walking in an open space, I could smell and feel my skin burning! Crap, I should have brought a sunscreen lotion.

Lo and behold, Aimee saw something which she described as "a place made exactly for Karla". Thank you Mother Nature! Finally my own, uhm, private space. Thank goodness to whoever invented wet tissues and gel sanitizers. And thank goodness for Aimee for being the girlscout that she is - always prepared!

Photo Credit: Mumay

Clueless of what was happening in the foreground, the above picture illustrates it all. A picture indeed is worth a thousand words! Apparently our guide stopped the rest of the trekkers passing through to give me ultimate privacy. And the above picture is what greeted me as I emerged from my "private space".

Even though it was quite embarrassing, Mark still managed to crack a joke. According to him - it looks like even in the wilderness I still manage to create traffic.

Oh well, as they say. SHIT HAPPENS!

-Relentless Karla -

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Live. Laugh. Love.

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 11:50:00 +0000

When I turned twenty someone asked me where do I see myself in 10 years.

At the time I knew exactly what I wanted in life. I have already predicted, planned and mapped out my future.

Fast forward 10 years and I am sat in a beach in Vietnam pondering what the last 10 years had been like. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would ever set foot in Vietnam or to the other places that I have been to for that matter. Nor did I predicted that life would be so much better than I have ever imagined it to be.

I fell in love at 19, got engaged at 22, got married at 24 and got divorced at 29. People don't come into our lives by accident. Everyone that crosses our paths serves a purpose because everything happens for a reason.

It's all part of the masterplan. I was way too eager to see the future that I forgot to live in the moment.

10 things I've learned in the last 10 years

Fight for your dreams

Everything happens for a reason

Live in the moment

Love like you've never been hurt

Live life to the fullest

Forgive but never forget

Hindsight is a bitch

It's ok to make mistakes so long as you learn from them

Wisdom comes with age

Believe in second chances

From Middle East to Europe and now back in Asia I have moved from place to place whilst trying to find myself. I have definitely come full circle. There had been some dark times and I have been through hell and back a few times but I've managed to come out alive.

I was once a lost soul and I have found my way back. And though I have made mistakes, I have paid my dues. I feel like I have been given a second chance at life, a life where I have a purpose and I'm ever so grateful to wake up each morning knowing that every day is a reason to celebrate life.

My journey so far.

- Relentless Karla -

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Project Rainbow

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:14:00 +0000

Fashion for me is all about reinvention. If you know me, you would know that I don't follow trends. I'm not fashionable per se, although I think I have a good eye for fashion. But before I tell you about what this post is all about, let me tell you a back story.

I used to be really skinny when I was in my teens. My older brother would always tease me about my elbows being lethal as they were all bones. It's hard to imagine me now as bag of bones but I have proof! Hideous photos taken from my geeky years though I won't be posting any of it.

It was so frustrating as a teenager watching my upper half expand particularly my bosom and stomach yet my lower half stayed flat. One day when I was about 19, I had a light bulb moment - I thought to myself "If I eat more carbs & rice it will help me gain weight. If I gain weight perhaps it will all go to my bottom". Sounds logical right?

How bloody wrong was I? The weight gain stayed but much to my disappointment not to where I wanted it to be. It added more to my upper half. Little did I know that my metabolism would go berserk once I reached adulthood! So my plan backfired and the rest is history. As you may or may not know black clothing is virtually slimming and it reduces the appearance of bulges. Thank goodness I discovered the power of black, that's when my ~~obsession~~ love affair with black started! I became the lady in black.

Photo Credit: Creepy Insights

My Mother associates black as boring, dark and depressing. She would always tell me off for wearing black as apparently it adds more years to my actual age plus apparently it doesn't suit my personality - whatever that means. Most people thinks black is my favourite colour, it's actually not. My favourite colours are royal blue, ube (yam) purple and bloody red.

Enter Project Rainbow a.k.a. Colour Coding. By the way, I'm not referring to the Colour Coding traffic management scheme in Philippines that was created to reduce the amount of vehicular traffic in Metro Manila. Instead, I am referring to my wardrobe.

In the last few months I have experimented and started injecting some colour into my black outfits even if it's just adding a bit of accessory like a coloured bangle or ring. Or even a bright lipstick or nail polish! I realized that a little colour doesn't hurt and it can actually go a long way. It also never fails to brighten up my day!

I went a teeny bit crazy on my recent trips and went on a mini *cough* shopping spree. (I can almost hear my bank account screaming from a distance) What the heck it's my birthday! Something to cheer me up. Maybe this is my way of hanging on to my twenties! (Yup, I'm turning 30 in 2 days time but who's counting!)

Since I have been too accustomed to black and it actually feels like second nature, it seems that I haven't completely shied away from it. When shopping I still pick up the black stuff first! Anyway, I have managed to get out of my comfort zone and bought a few stuff in bright shocking colours I wouldn't normally dare even look at like skirts in bloody red, fuchsia pink and bright orange. I'm excited though nervous at the same time to see if I can pull them off!

So to sum it up - finally I have had the courage to welcome colour into my life. I have learned to embrace my curves the same way I have embraced my caramel skin! To hell with concealing my ~~baby~~ fats and trying to look skinny. I have come to realise that I don't have to be skinny to be pretty. Part of looking good is feeling good about myself.

Confidence is key!

-Relentless Karla -

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Zaanse Schans: Traditionally Dutch

noreply@blogger.com (Relentless Karla) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:30:00 +0000

We went to Amsterdam last month to visit our friends Icis & Hugo who graciously hosted us. When we arrived earlier in the week it was very wet and windy particularly the day we visited The Anne Frank House. On our last day in Amsterdam the weather dramatically changed and we couldn't have asked for a better day. It was a beautiful sunny day perfect for a day-trip. They agreed to be 'tourists' for the day and suggested we visit Zaanse Schans as neither of them have been before. Jorrit, (Hugo's brother and boyfriend of one of my closest childhood girlfriends - Aimee) also came along with us. He became our 'tour guide' since he has been there with Aimee before.

Just 20 minutes outside of Amsterdam lies a beautiful 'village' that is traditionally Dutch. Zaanse Schans (Dutch pronunciation: ['za:nsə 'sxɑns]) ~~or to a stubborn non-Dutch tongue like mine~~, Zanse Swans is situated by the River Zaan and is made up of traditional Dutch architecture and crafts. A remarkable replica of what Zaanse Village used to look like back in the 17th Century.

Warning: Schans to a non-Dutch ear sounds like Swans (english), well it was to me anyway. Similar to the German word Schwanz which means penis or can also be used to refer to a person i.e. dick / prick.

There is no entrance fee, however some of the attractions charge an admission fee. By the entrance we were greeted by a very enthusiastic Dutch guy who had a huge DSLR in tow. First thing he said to me and Icis was "Pinay?" (Women from the Philippines). He exclaimed further "My wife is from Boracay!" (Boracay is a famous island in Philippines). Icis and I exchanged glances and the boys started giggling. He then ushered us to one side where apparently was the best view of Zaanse Schans and wanted to take 'souvenir' photos of us. We obliged and posed for a couple of photos and went on our way.

The setting is very picturesque! The canals, the beautiful wooden houses and the windmills, I felt like I was transported back in time. Apparently there were once more than a thousand windmills situated alongside the Zaan. Six of which can be found in Zaanse Schans - 2 oil mills, 2 sawmills, a paint mill and a mustard mill which are still operational to this day and some of the last remaining ones in the world.

The village also has the first Albert Heijn (grocery) shop, a wooden shoe (clogs) workshop, a cheese farm and a pewter house. It was interesting to see how cheese and wooden clogs 'came to life'. In the wooden shoe workshop, there is a vast showcase of different innovative wooden shoes, my personal favourite was the wooden roller skates clog!

I fell in love with one particular green wooden house which Icis promised to buy me when she wins the Euro Million lottery. In case she does win I thought I better document it since I forgot to ask her to sign an agreement. Ha!

On our way out we saw the enthusiastic Dutch guy with the DSLR again. He showed us our printed photos, inserted it into a desk calendar and was selling it to us for €10/photo. I blurted "Mahal naman!" ("So expensive!") He could see we were a bit apprehensive so he tried another selling tactic "Sige na, you will not only be helping me but also my family in Marinduque. Your kababayans!" ("C'mon, you will not only be helping me but also my family in Marinduque, your fellow countrymen!").

Hang on, didn't he say his wife was from Boracay?

-Relentless Karla -

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