Diane Writes

I admire him!

2012-03-04T21:33:00.000+08:00

He has Asian blood.
He was a product of hardships and perseverance.
He valued his studies before anything else.
We both have a degree in Economics.
But He earned it from Harvard University, above anything else

From couch to clutch..... I admired the man who created his own LINderella story

I know he is not the handsomest, but I am developing a serious crush on you.. Jeremy Lin :)

What is the taste of true love?

2012-02-29T10:58:00.000+08:00

I discovered this short film from a fellow blogger. I know I just posted another video clip in my previous post. But I feel that this film deserves to be shared.

The film received the People's Choice Award in the recent Manhattan International Film Festival. With or without the award, this film owns my respect. If it is not too much to ask, please spare 5 minutes of your time for this great piece of work.

I would love to hear your thoughts too.

Attached

2012-02-28T23:12:00.001+08:00

This day wasn't for me. I had my own share of excessive agitations just for a day. In my attempt to perk up myself, I ended up encountering this short clip. I really hope that everything will be better over the next days. Breathe Diane!

Finding some happiness

2012-02-26T18:55:00.001+08:00

My students are already done with their defense. I was about to rejoice when some unexpected papers to edit came.

I spent my entire weekend reading and editing papers. But I am not complaining :D Though I get exhausted, I believe that every work is a blessing. It means that people still trust my abilities.

And despite the bulk of workload, simple things like this

is enough to make me happy.

Hope you are having a great weekend.

11 Things Meme

2012-02-26T17:52:00.000+08:00

One of my talented and lovely blog friends tagged me to make this post. But before I answer her questions, allow me to introduce my lovely blog friend. Her name is Yadira and she hails from the beautiful land of Puerto Rico. She is in to different crafts but her interest is concentrated on sewing, embroidery and crochet. She blogs about her crafts and even her self-made yummy recipes. If you are interested in arts and crafts, I suggest that you drop by Yadira's blog. Learn and enjoy your time viewing her great and unique pieces.

Yadira requested me to answer these questions

1. Do you have any favorite recipe? Which one?

I love food so my list of favorite recipes is definitely a long one. :) But just to identify a few, here are some in my list
From our local delicacies I love

Kare Kare

Photo Source here

A famous Filipino dish made from peanut sauce, variety of vegetables and beef. It is usually served with shrimp paste.

Paella

Photo Source here

2. How many blogs do you follow?
I follow plenty of blogs. Though honestly, I am not able to visit everyone everyday. In my spare time, I usually unwind by hopping to each of them.

3. If you could be any character in a book or movie who would you be?
I always love female characters who were able to redeem themselves. To name a few, I love Frances Hodgson Burnett's Sara Crewe and the Little Women of Louisa May Alcott.

4. What's your dream travel destination?
Europe! I would love to see Paris, Italy, Spain, Switzerland and all those places I only knew from my World History classes.

5. Do you have pets? Do you talk to them?
Honestly, I am not an animal lover. Though we have Douglas, a dog whom I have featured in this post.

6. If you could have any job in the world, what would it be?
For a day, I always wanted to be in the shoes of a celebrity or someone famous. For those who are close to me, they know how much I hate attention seekers. I always wanted silence, privacy and independence. But even for a day, I'd like to know how it feels to be in the shoes of the person I never imagined to be.

7. Is there any food that you wouldn't eat no matter what?
Buro or Balao Balao, I swear to never eat it. Buro is also a Filipino delicacy. It is a mixture of rice, shrimp and salt that is fermented for several days.

8. 3 items you would take with you if you were left alone in a deserted island. I
Can we make it 10? LOL Pen, paper and a choice among Channing Tatum, Jet Li, Jeremy Lin or any of my crushes whom I can't mention LOL


Photo Source here

Photo Source here

9. Have you ever pretended to be someone else?
Not really pretended to be someone else. But there were instances in my life when I wished to be in the shoes of the person I admire.

10. What's your dream item to find in a thrift store?
A signature bag!

11. Food: Mexican, Italian or Japanese
I go for Mexican and Italian.

Now it's my turn to pass this post to my other blog friends. I would love to see my following blog friends to answer the same set of questions in a post.
1. Cas of Oasis in the Desert
2. Vivian of A Dance for 5
3. AC of Life is Beautiful
4. Amanda of Life Since Then
5. Comeca of Shans Wife Meme
6. Lene of Memoire de Lene
7. Jann of Have a Daily Cup from Mrs. Olson
8. Izdiher
9. Ricki from Art @ Home
10. Bee of Before I turn 25
11. Janelle of Of Pinks and Fairy Tales

Away from the city life

2012-02-23T21:57:00.000+08:00

My backpacker days are over. After two consecutive weeks of moving in and out of the city, I am back for real. The out-of-town assignments are over and my everyday work mode resumes.

Last week, I was in Caleruega for our spiritual retreat. This week, I went with some of my colleagues for a team building activity. We particularly went to Club Balai Isabel. For those who have been reading my blog, you might have encountered some posts I made for Club Balai Isabel. I've been to the place several times and all I have are pleasant and memorable experiences. I love the place and the entire Club never fails to mesmerize me.

I wasn't able to take a lot of pictures on my recent visit. I was busy participating in our team building activities and I was all tired at the end of each session. I also chose to simply enjoy the place and I used our free time to recover the scarce sleeping hours I often experience in the city.

Here are the few pictures I have taken

The villa where we stayed. I recovered a lot of sleep in one of the rooms here. :-)

The entire place is filled with refreshing greeneries

My obsession for pathways! Gardens with pathways will always be a part of my photo posts.

How I wish our home has this as its backyard.

If I will not own my own infinity pool, I wanted something like this. I want a swimming pool surrounded by ornamental plants.

Club Balai Isabel also provides a place of worship for the Catholics. This is the Spousal of Mary and Joseph Chapel.

Allow me to leave you with this photo

Happy Friday! Wishing everyone a great weekend ahead.

Caleruega in pieces

2012-02-20T23:06:00.005+08:00

After my three-day retreat in Caleruega, I have to pack my bags again for an out-of-town work. This time, it will no longer be a real vacation. I am joining some of my colleagues for a team building and some planning activities. Though I anticipate the tiring tasks, I honestly wish that this becomes a regular opportunity for us. However, the trade off of having the chance to travel is that I am missing my classes for days. While I am worried of how I will squeeze in our remaining topics, I'm sure my students are having the best time of their lives in my absence. :-)

I will not be providing a teaser here of where I will be going over the next days. This entry serves as an extension of my previous post. What I will instead share are some interesting furniture pieces that I found in Caleruega.

Let's start with some artworks

A painting that depicts some activities of the Catholic community. Since Caleruega is owned and managed by a Catholic congregation, expect more of this in the area. I also love the paintings and even arrangement of the Filipino made jars.

Do you love stained glasses? This magnificent image of the Risen Christ is the main art attraction inside the Transfiguration Chapel. Instead of seeing a crucifix, the Chapel provides a glorious image of Christ. Have you noticed the mantel used? Instead of using the typical white mantel, the altar made use of a batik inspired cloth.

Chapels and other worship rooms usually provide a glass or wooden podium for the commentator. In the Chapel of Transfiguration, this unique wood carving replaced the plain and traditional podium we see.

Wood is a common element of furniture in Calereuega. Here are more unique wood pieces

How I wish I could take home the bench and the fantastic view

The main altar is made from a huge tree trunk. Now, who says that tables need to be in perfect shape to be beautiful?

Even the Chapel's tabernacle is made of wood

These are dividers in our session hall. The frames are made of pure wood. The white areas are made of Capiz shells. Capiz is a common type of shell in the Philippines that is usually used for lampshades, wall panels and other decorative pieces.

Here's another item made of shell

Kabibe or a huge shell turned as a sink. How do you want to have this in your own homes?

Caleruega also houses a number of beautiful outdoor and indoor lamps. Here are some of them

This chandelier is originally a candle holder. Someone made the effort to repurpose the metal holder to a shabby and elegant chandelier.

I fell in love with this lamp post. There are a lot of this when you explore Caleruega

This one is my personal favorite.

Wishing everyone a great week ahead.

P.S. Thank you to all my blog friends who appreciated my previous post. :-) You made me happy.

A place to fall in love

2012-02-18T16:41:00.000+08:00

I'm back!!

After three days of being away from the city, I am back with a lot of stories and pictures to share. I mentioned in my previous post that I will be out for annual retreat. I spent three days to a place where anyone can definitely feel being close to nature. The place where me and some of my colleagues stayed was in

Caleruega is owned by the Order of Preachers (O.P.), one of the largest Catholic congregations in the Philippines. The place was named as Caleruega because it is the birthplace of St. Dominic, who happens to the founder of the Order of Preachers or more commonly known as the Dominican Order. Since I am working in an educational institutional managed by the O.P., we are privileged to be given the opportunity to regularly stay in the place for our annual retreat.

Once you stepped in Caleruega, your eyes will be treated to the most breath taking view of the nature

I love pathways especially if I will pass through these wonderful blessings of nature

During night time, this is how the pathway looks like

Ready to fall in love with this

And more pathways to love

We stayed in one of those villas.

Before we can reach our room, we have to pass by this

The interior of the villas in Caleruega is very simple. What you can see in a typical room are single sized beds, enough cabinets, side table, and the basic comfort room. No telephone, TV, wifi access and all other technologies and luxuries that define city life. However, if your window gives you this view every morning

then I guess, you will never demand all those conveniences. After all, Caleruega is intended for a spiritual retreat. Here are more relaxing views from our room

There's nothing like this in the city

More sceneries to love

But the highlight of everything is this

The Transfiguration Chapel of Caleruega

Don't you just want to fall in love with this place? For more pictures of Caleruega, you can read my previous post.

Happy Weekend to everyone!

On a break

2012-02-15T08:56:00.000+08:00

By the time you are reading this post, I am already traveling with some of my colleagues for our annual retreat. We will once again be housed for three days in this paradise

I will share more and updated pictures over the weekends.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2012-02-14T01:56:00.002+08:00

The Power of Words

2012-02-10T17:57:00.003+08:00

Current mood: Happy :)

I know some of you are tired of reading my rants over the sleepless nights of painstakingly reading, reviewing and editing the research papers of my students. The good news is that I am able to recover my sleeping hours this week. From less than 4 hours, I now enjoy 5 to 7 hours of sleep. Still not healthy enough, but I am at least recovering.

Aside from ranting over my teaching works, some of you may felt that I had thoughts of quitting this profession. I found myself in this situation because an incident somehow demanded me to defend my character and principles. I was tested to the extent that I almost made a life changing decision. Leaving teaching is like losing a part of myself. For those who know me well, you know that becoming an educator is one of my dreams. When I was given the chance to teach, I felt more than honored and blessed because I was given the chance ot fulfill my own dream. Destiny perhaps wanted me to remain in this profession. I also believe that when a dream thrives in your blood then no hindrances could ever challenge it. So here I am, still surviving and living with my dream job.

Just when I found some reasons to quit teaching, I equally found another reasons to remain. Before my evening class, a few colleagues gave me some positive words. A few told me that the works of my students possessed the organization, substance and quality of a real paper. Whew! That was all music to my weary soul. Though with all due respect and humility, I have to say that I don't claim full credit to the works of my students. They have their advisers and their own creativity to accomplish everything. But still, I know that in one way or another, I am part of that little success.

I never demanded for awards, citations, and even pieces of attention. I love and will continuously love my silence. I never wanted everyone's praises, both real and fake. I am contented in knowing that I accomplish my job, accurately and of course, on time. The most that I wanted was for people to respect and know me as a person who always gets the job done. But I will not deny the fact that when people acknowledge my humble accomplishments, my entire outlook changes. That rare smile of happiness leaves a trace on my face and marks a significant fulfillment in my heart.

Some of you may see me as a very shallow person. Yes I am. My source of happiness is sometimes so plain and shallow. A pat from the back from my boss, real and sincere words of gratitude from my students and in this case, some positive feedback from my hard work, these are enough reasons to make me believe that I should remain patient, persevering and dedicated in fulfilling the life I wanted.

Thursday Daydream

2012-02-09T10:19:00.002+08:00

In the middle of a busy work week, here I am AGAIN day dreaming of some beautiful things. :D I arrived at work so early and since there is some time left to relax, I decided to make some refreshing post. Refreshing for me meant being away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Those who are very close to me know my greatest dream; to have my own weekend home in Tagaytay. And if I would design my own home, I wanted it to have a garden. My family owns a limited space here in the city. All we have is our home, parking space and some potted plants. If I have the financial resources and chance, my own place will surely have the relaxing garden I've been dreaming of. And if I would design my own garden, this is how I wanted it to be

My garden should have a pathway

Photo Source here

That would lead to a bridge

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and to this space

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I have my own log cabin

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and a relaxing terace with this

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I'll have to spent my breakfast and other meals here

Photo Source here

I guess I'm having too much daydream here. :) It's 8 am, time to return to reality, time to work.

Hope everyone is having a happy Thursday.

P.S. All photos used in this post are not owned by the author. Sources are linked below each picture.

Have I been robbed?

2012-02-09T10:16:00.004+08:00

For those who have been regularly reading my blog, you know how much I love all those food escapades with my friends. One of our favorite destinations is Estero in Binondo. I blogged about the place twice. You can find those posts here.

I searched for other bloggers who also made posts for Estero. I googled pictures and I found my own photo uploads in the search results. It made me happy because my blog is becoming searchable which I felt in one way or another, will increase my readership. After the small happiness, I found this

A familiar photo!

If enlarged, this is how will it appear

Photo used without permission by Best Philippine Attractions

I made my first post about Estero last year and one of the photos I took and uploaded in this blog was this

Did someone just steal my picture?

I checked the site that apparently used my photo without permission or even an acknowledgement. The site as it appears is hosted by The BigNM and Links2Prosperity.

I don't really mind if other people grab and use my pictures without permission. I am likewise not familiar with copyright laws so I don't even know if my blog is legally protected from such misuse. I admit, I also grab pictures from other blogs and websites. However, I don't claim ownership for the pictures. In effect, I link each source as my way of showing respect to the real owner.

My only request to those people who intend to use any of my photos is to identify my blog as the original source.

I don't mean to be selfish here. A little respect in the form of acknowledgement would be enough.

Just a Random Post: Smile

2012-02-06T14:58:00.000+08:00

In the middle of a busy work day, I found myself stealing office hours :), checking my blog and writing this post. Nominate me now for the most honorable employee of the year:)

In my desire to refresh and give myself a little breather, I ended up hearing and enjoying Ben King's Stand by Me. I love King's rendition, but I remembered a cuter version that never fails to leave a smile on my face.

Hope this makes you smile too.

Diane destresses

2012-02-04T22:27:00.002+08:00

The solution for stress? DESTRESS! Loosen up, unwind, do the things that will make you happy. Teaching has been giving me some reasons to quit and it's not just because of the bulk of work. I have learned to handle deadlines and all the paper works. But when your principles and character that become tested, then there's another kind of tougher stress that lies ahead. Whew! This requires some great deal of decision making.

I started my "destressing"after my 8 am to 5 pm office job last Friday. I treated myself to a Hair Spa and finally, a Hair Cut. Although honestly, I'm not happy with my new look. The stylist made it shorter than I expected. But I have no point to complain now. Everything is done and what I can do is to wait till it grows again. If a member of the male populace is reading this then I would surely get one irritated. LOL Why make a fuss over a simple hair problem? :D


Before and After... how come before looks better?

The destressing activity wasn't over. Or did I just get more stressed with my hair? I met my friend Anne this morning in our favorite mall. I treated my tummy to a much craved seafood pasta and mango crepe..heaven! Good food brings good mood! After our bulgy belly meal, we finally watched the US film version of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I already watched the Swedish version of the film and sorry to say, I preferred it more.

Though I wasn't happy with the movie, I had a great time with my friend Anne and I believe that matters more. Before Anne and I called it a day, I thought I am going to end up prudent and proud of not being able to buy anything...not until I saw this shirt

Shopaholic hormones attack!

Can you resist me? LOL Can't wait to wear this!

Wishing everyone a great, happy and relaxing weekend!

Dreaming of a Workstation Makeover

2012-02-01T11:22:00.005+08:00

If I would design my own workstation, I wanted it to be...
1. ergonomically designed from layout to interior design
2. uses daylight, but has enough tint to block the heat of the sun
3. provides a view of the city or if budget does not permit, a small zen garden will do
4. uses light colored paint
5. wide working table
6. discrete storage and wiring system
7. high ceilings
8. white or wooden tiled flooring

My current workstation is so plain and traditional. My everyday companion is a heavy wooden table where I have my LCD monitor, printer, telephone and all those scattered papers. Getting a workstation make over would always remain a dream as I am working to a non-profit organization.... a school :) Comforts like these never become a priority. So just to perhaps satisfy my dream of finally owning my dream working niche, I searched and compiled the best workstations I have ever seen

Photo source here

The wide window glass panels, simple black and white theme, wide working table and the built in life size shelf, this is closer to what I call my dream work place.

Photo Source here

I am not really a fan of color pink but I appreciate the simplicity of everything here. A working table, enough drawers, floating shelves and the hanging organizers can replace the typical bulletin board in the workplace.

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A better alternative for office dividers or partitions, this style promotes more space and light can easily penetrate the workplace.

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Talking about creativity and budget! Why not use wooden crates or panels, pile them together and voila! An instant and unique workstation.

Photo source here

Floating wooden shelves and a splash of refreshing green paint transforms a corner to a relaxing and inviting workstation.

Photo source here

I always love using white paint and furniture that will later be accentuated by other colorful pieces.

Photo Source here

White is not after all dull, boring and suited only for hospitals. It pairs well with other colorful pieces.

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In case, I will become the boss :D

White, wood, pieces of greenery and provision for natural light

Photo Source here

And if I were to choose my own desk, I wanted something unconventional and ergonomic

In case your office cannot move away with the partitions, why not make them one of a kind

Photo Source here

And this almost took my breath away!

Photo Source here

This unique and magnificent structure serves as the architecture studio of Selgas Cano in Madrid, Spain.
From the outside, this is how the office looks

Photo Source here

A workplace that marries nature and creativity! In case you wanted a break,

Photo Source here

Where fresh air and real natural environment are free and available anytime

All photos used in this post are not owned by the author. Sources are provided and linked below each picture.

This rare and humbling opportunity

2012-01-27T18:29:00.008+08:00

Yes I confess, I am a stalker in my own ways. But! Allow me to clarify things first, my stalker mode only operates in the cyberworld. Facebook, Twitter, and Google are my ultimate crime buddies. And the people I stalk are limited to those who interests me. A crush (tee hee) and people I admire because of their humbled achievements.. they are my usual victims :D

And why I am suddenly talking about stalking? Allow me first to relate my recent experience.

I was browsing over my Twitter account last night after a long day at work. I have two Twitter accounts by the way. (No, I am not a Twitter addict, let me explain) I maintain a private and a public account. My private account are exclusive to my really close friends, those people who saw my cry cry crayola moments and have enough tolerance level to experience my immature rants. I opened a public account to accommodate my acquaiantances, colleagues and students. Instead of giving my mobile phone number, Twitter served as the next best communication tool.

Twitter randomly provides suggested people to follow. These people are usually found within your network, either you follow a common person or a number of your contacts follow them. Though I usually ignore this feature, I noticed familiar faces in my suggested list. Most of them were my students and this started the story.

Everything happened because of curiosity, I swear! I clicked the familiar faces I was surprised with the tweets or I should say rants and curses that I know were intended for me.

I was surprised but honestly, I never felt bad at all. I was on the contrary entertained by some of the words they used to describe the burden of taking my subject. I by the way handle Business Plan Writing subjects. In the entire stretch of the semester, my students write their Business Plan. Before the school year ends, they have to defend their paper to a three-man panel. I will not deny the fact that my subject demands a lot from my students. Business Plan Writing drains kids to the highest level. As their teacher, I really try my best to support them. I also spent sleepless nights reading and revising their papers. I monitor 13 groups which also gives me 13 papers to read and review everyday. When I review papers, I don't just write "revise" "change" "delete" and all those commanding words. I write, suggest and provide specific advices as to how they can improve their paper.

To be honest, I always have the option to become the lousy and lazy professor. I can easily say "I don't like the presentation of your market survey analysis. Change it!" I would rather say "You can still improve your Marketing Analysis. Generate and add the following tables. Expound your analyses by relating the responses to the market situation. You can start the discussion with..."

Having 13 papers to read is equally exhausting on my part. I also have to sacrifice sleep even during weekends. There were even instances when I have to forget my weekend life. I refuse to go out with my few and counted people who keeps me happy and holds the last strand of my sanity. As much as I wanted to look good and feel refreshed everyday, I can't. The lesser sleeping hours give me that lifeless and haggard look. This also explains why for the longest time, I am tagged as a boring, single and a great old maid in the making.

I know some of you will tell me that I am paid so I have no right to complain or explain. I acknowledge that fact. Your parents work hard to pay for your tuition fees, so you all deserve to receive the best education. If only some of you can take a peek to my malnourished pay slip, it might rattle off your senses. However, I believe that this profession does not work with money. Though we need to money to support our families, I can personally attest that the best teachers in the world are not formed and motivated by money. The greatest teachers are those who teach because of their love for the profession.

I always wanted to tell my students how I landed in teaching. When I graduated from college, all I wanted was to teach. Unfortunately, teaching gave me first taste of job rejection. I forgot teaching and moved on to another career. However, after I finished my MBA, the opportunity to teach came in. I wanted to teach not because of money. I wanted to teach because it was one of my dreams that was waiting to be fulfilled.

I am not mad though. I wasn't really hurt by all those harsh words. I'm getting used to it. I also don't take things personally. So no worries about your grades :) I have learned to differentiate personal and work life issues.

My only wish is, for this semester will end soon (hehehe), everyone will pass the defense. Everyone will feel proud and accomplished on our last day. And when you look back at your college life 5 to 10 years from now, you will consider Business Plan Writing as one of your humbled achievements.

I would accept the pain of being tagged as a sore, loser and old maid in the making, if it means being given this rare, humbling and noble opportunity to become an instrument of building happy, accomplished and successful people.

Redemption and Rejection

2012-01-24T11:04:00.000+08:00

After the long weekend break, I was very eager to start the week. I felt refreshed, optimistic and ready to accomplish everything. I started my office routine after my early morning class. I listed the tasks that needs to be done and checked my email. And that's it! In a snap, my entire day was ruined by a letter of rejection.

My positive outlook is gone.

Having my desktop computer and internet connection, I tried to divert my attention to other meaningful thoughts. Someone out there perhaps led me to this inspiring video clip

F is for FAIL from Brent Barson on Vimeo.

I hope the disheartening email only serves as a sign that I should consider another try, another hope to build another redeeming chapter of my life

Another food trip for the Chinese New Year

2012-01-23T10:00:00.002+08:00

Kung Hei Fat Choi...... in case I have Chinese blog readers. :)

Today, the Chinese community is celebrating their own New Year. I don't have an inch of Chinese blood in my lineage. However, I grew up being exposed with their culture and traditions. For those who are not familiar with the history of my country, a significant number of our populace is comprised of the Chinese. During the ancient times, some Chinese migrated and ventured to different businesses in the Philippines. These Chinese men later found their stable livelihood and started to build their respective families here.

The dominance of the Chinese community later led to the establishment of the Manila Chinatown in Binondo.

It is believed that Manila's Chinatown is the oldest in the world. Situated in Binondo, this was established in 1594, when the Philippines was still colonized by the Spanish government.

Aside from discovering history and the culture of the Chinese, Binondo is famous because of the best Chinese restaurants in town. One of the restaurants I regularly visit with my friends is Estero. I already blogged about Estero in this post.

For those who regularly read my blog, you are more or less aware of our mini Chinese New Year tradition. Together with my few workplace friends, we visit Estero before the actual date of the Chinese new year.

Before we reach Estero, allow me to share some pictures on the way to the place

The surroundings may not be too pleasing because Binondo is characterized by its narrow and busy streets. Since Binondo is a business district, expect the regular crowd of people that doubles during the Chinese New Year.

Stores selling different charms are always present in any street.

Here's how Estero looks like from the outside

It doesn't look so pleasing but they provide clean and airconditioned dining areas

Ambiance is definitely not a find in Estero. They compensate though for the best, clean and cheapest food in Binondo

Here's what we pigged out :)

From left clockwise, Calamares (Breaded Fried Squid), Shanghai Fried Rice, Breaded Beef in Oyster Sauce, and Buttered Chicken, all for less than Php 600!

I hope my blog friends abroad enjoyed this post. Most of you told me that you enjoyed reading something about my country. So here it is!

Wishing everyone a great week ahead! :)

Little but great surprises

2012-01-22T18:24:00.002+08:00

The bulk of workload I had last week was crazy. Most of them arise from my teaching tasks. The papers to read are drowning me to the fullest. Just when I needed to stay in the office to review papers, my boss sent me to a 2-day seminar. This means I will be away from my computer, papers and other workload. Though I can always bring the paper works at home, this is something I vowed to avoid. I wanted to clearly separate work from home. I don't want to turn our home as an office extension. Home should be a place to rest, rejuvenate and spent quality time with the family. But that seems to be true only in words... How about my working blog friends, are you forced to bring work in your respective homes?

Despite the wrong timing of the two-day seminar, attending one is something I look forward. I learn new things and meet people from different industries. My expectations were high and I was hoping for an exceptional experience, given the fact that the registration fee is quite expensive. Unfortunately, everything turned out to be a regretful experience. Poor logistics and I found some speakers not knowledgeable enough to discuss the topics assigned to them. The organizers were not good in time management so there were idle time during the session. To kill time, I was forced to buy this book

Just when I promised myself to become more prudent this year......

Despite the unpleasant experience, some few good things happened on that two long days of sacrifice. I met my friend Anne and we had dinner in an Italian restaurant. The place was relaxing because I was treated with this scenery

Not really the most fantastic garden in the world, but pieces of greenery in the middle of a busy workplace is enough to relax my always worried and weary soul.

On the second day of the seminar, I decided to meet up my former students. We had lunch together

Happiness!

We look like we are of the same age, right? ;-) Though our meet up lasted less than an hour, I was so happy to see my former proteges. They all bloomed and turned out to become successful professionals. They are living proofs that I have done something good in my years of existence.

They are life's little but great surprises for me.

Reel Places to See

2012-01-21T22:25:00.000+08:00

Watching movies has always been one of my favorite past time activities. When I turned 18, my father gave me my own VCD player and that further intensified my movie addiction. During vacation, I would cocoon in my room for a day and watch like 5 consecutive movies. On those days, only three hindrances can hamper my movie marathon, when I need to eat, take a bath and pee. Other than that, no disturbances could ever hinder my addiction.

Aside from a quality story, handsome leading man, :-) I always look forward in the setting or location of each film. Since venturing in traveling is expensive and never a priority in my family, films were always instrumental in bringing me to the greatest places I never imagined to have existed. And I'm not talking about places that made it to the seven wonders of the world. Some of most of them are just plain restaurants, stores and streets that appealed to me in one way or another. Allow me to share some of them in this post

1. Juliet's Wall in Verona

Found in Italy, this was a significant place in the movie, Letters to Juliet. Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) discovered a place where anyone can post love letters on the wall of what was believed as Juliet's house. Sophie later found a group of ladies who answers all the letters and that led to the development of the story.

2. Shakespeare Bookstore - Notting Hill

Sadly, my dream to reach this place is already impossible. I read from this article that this famous London travel bookstore was already closed.

3. Central Park in Manhattan provided the best locations in most of my favorite romantic films

Central Park West - The Devil Wears Prada

Central Park : The Mall - Serendipity

Central Park Bow Bridge - The Mirror Has Two Faces

The Loab Boathouse - 27 Dresses

4. New York Public Library - Sex and the City (the movie)

Photo Source here

5. Staglin Family Vineyard in Rutherford California - The Parent Trap

Back when Lindsay Lohan was young, sweet, innocent :D

Photo Source here

6. Oak Hill - Sweet Home Alabama

They used the place's lawn for the wedding

7. Serendipity III - Serendipity

8. Santorini - The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

9. Chatsworth House - The Duchess

How about you? I would love to hear your all time favorite "reel places."

P.S. All pictures used in this post are not owned by the author. Sources are linked to each picture

Feel before you speak

2012-01-16T10:11:00.000+08:00

I suddenly felt the need to post this. When I logged in my Facebook account this morning, I encountered some stark words on my news feed. Although those messages were never intended for me, I felt bad both for the person who posted and the person referred by those harsh words...

More than thinking before speaking, I guess it's more important to feel before we speak..

How's life Diane?

2012-01-12T23:20:00.002+08:00

When I checked my blog this morning, I realized that I only made 3 posts and the month will end in two weeks. Phew!

The paperworks in teaching and my pending freelance works are piling up so I always end up working the entire day. I teach in the morning, work in the office the entire day, teach in the evening and extend some works at home to beat all the big Ds...deadlinesssss.

See those blue marks on the paper? Yes, that's how I murder a submitted paper. I know my students are hating and cursing me to the fullest now...but sorry kids.. quality comes first for me.

I've been reading and editing research papers for the past two weeks. So at the end of the day, this is how I usually look

Total Knock Out!

In the middle of the busy work week, I can't help but wish that I have this at home

Okay Diane, wake up and get back to work!

I will travel and write

2012-01-07T22:49:00.002+08:00

My blog life would never be happier and exciting without the presence of my blog friends, readers and followers. I value each of them so I am willing to exert all means to write topics that would interest them. I took advantage of my second giveaway as an opportunity to discover the posts that interest my readers. Of the 24 comments I received, I learned that most of my readers enjoy posts about my country. A greater percentage of them are living in the other side of the world, most of them are actually Americans. This could possibly explain why my local travel posts are well appreciated.

So in response to the request of my readers, I promise to regularly write about the beautiful places in my country. One new place to visit, a travel post, I hope this would be enough to make my readers happy.

For 2012, these are the places in the Philippines I would love to visit and share with my blog friends

Batanes

Photo Source here

Vigan

Photo Source here

Bohol

Photo Source here

Palawan

Photo source here

Cebu

Bantayan Island

Marinduque's Bellarocca


Photo Source here

Photo Source here

Banaue's Rice Terraces

One step at a time, I am all set to travel!

Bring it on 2012

2012-01-02T21:53:00.000+08:00

Happy New Year!!!!!!

Today is the last day of my two-week break and I am savoring the last hours of this once a year vacay. Tomorrow, I will be back at work with tons of papers to check, review and outputs to follow up. In short, I am back to reality.

My two-week vacay was all about shopping, malling, eating, movies and time with my family. I wish life will be forever like this. :-) No deadlines to beat and everything is so laid back. I also found some time recalling all the blessings that God has given me for the year. I was able to visit new places such as Puerto Galera and Taiwan. 2011 was a year of many memorable firsts for me. I made my first international research presentation and my blog finally gained a few but well treasured followers and readers. Blogging has been more exciting, inspiring and fulfilling with the presence of my frequent visitors turned friends such as Duni, Janelle, Kelley, Cheryl, Jen , Ricki and Diane. To those I have failed to mention, I apologize but each comment and visit you made in my blog is more than enough to brighten up my day.

For 2012, here are my wishes for my family, work, and blog life

1. To earn my first international publication
2. An opportunity to conduct another study with industry linkage - hopefully this can be another material for another international presentation
3. To finish the Manual of Operations at work
4. More freelance works to fatten my savings account and give me some shopping money :-)
5. Continuous teaching job...for my students to pass their defense and no casualties (failing grades) in my other class
6. TO LOSE WEIGHT!!!!!
7. To gain more readers, followers turned friends in the blogosphere
8. Explore other earning opportunities in blogging
9. Fatten my savings account and earn other investments
10. and the one great wish..... :D

I know this year will never be an easy one. Challenges will surely emerge along the way. But whatever it is, I am ready! Bring it on 2012!

And the winner is........

2012-01-02T20:48:00.002+08:00

Before I announce the winner of my giveaway, allow me first to thank and link up all the bloggers who willingly participated

1. Not Your Ordinary Teacher

2. Cas of An Oasis in the Desert

3. Duni of Duni Studio

4. Ginger of Ginger Snap Crafts

5. Comeca of Shans Wife Meme

6. Shelia of Note Songs

7. Jann Olson of Have Daily Cup from Mrs. Olson

8. LV of Food Fashion and Flow

9. SJ of Homemaker on a Dime

10. Bdubs of Book Worms Review

11. Betsy of My Salvaged Treasures

12. Diane of Lavender Dreamer

13. Jane of Cottage at the Crossroads

14. Yadira of Yadira's Crafty Adventures

15. Anya of Anya Adores

16. Yulya Shenka of Lucky Angel, Reviews and Giveaways

17. Elaine of Sunny Simple Life

18. Steve E of The Fourth Dimension

19. Jen of Sadie Inspired

20. Jen of Memoirs of a Sassy Girl

21. Janelle of Of Pinks and Fairy Tales

I assigned a number to each blogger based on the their joining date. Of the 21 participants, the winner is candidate number....

Congratulations to Betsy of My Salvaged Treasures!

It's giveaway time!

2011-12-29T19:40:00.002+08:00

CONTEST IS CLOSED

Three more days and we will all bid goodbye to 2011. I can't believe that another year is over! Everything still feels like yesterday. As they say, time flies so fast and before you realize it, a lot of things have already happened.

2011 will forever remain as a lucky and memorable year for me. My first ever international research presentation and first trip abroad happened in this year. God has also been gracious enough to give me plenty of free lance jobs. Though the early months of my 2011 wasn't that good because I lost a friend and I was almost hospitalized just because of neglected cough, God compensated and gave me a blast at the end of the year.

I also had my share of bad times and frustrations in 2011, but all the blessings were more than enough to make me happy and thankful. So to further spread the luck and happiness, I'm hosting my second humble GIVEAWAY!

Here's what you can win

Since most of my blog friends, followers and readers are female, I decided to have a pink tote bag for the giveaway.

The bag is reversible so you can choose between the floral or the pink stripes.

How to join?
1. leave a comment (including your full name, blog url and email address) and
2. answer this question

"Among my 2011 posts, which one did you like the most?"

You don't have to be a follower or make a post for my giveaway to qualify. :-) But if you want to do so, I will highly appreciate it.

Everyone is entitled to only one entry. The prize will be shipped for free to anywhere in the world. The winner will be drawn through random.org and will be announced anytime on January 2, 2012. You can join my giveaway as long as I don't disable the comments in this post.

My Happy Holidays

2011-12-27T21:09:00.002+08:00

Hello everyone! How was your Christmas? I'm sure everyone is tired yet so happy with the parties, food, gifts and the company of your friends, families and all the special people in your lives. As for me, I attended a couple of Christmas parties at the workplace, had dinner and went malling with one of my best girlfriends, fulfilled some things in my mother's wish list and spent Christmas day with my maternal relatives in the province.

In this post, allow me to share some of the Pre-Christmas activities I attended.

I work for a Catholic college so Christmas is one event we really look forward. A number of activities for both the students and employees are regularly conducted. For the students, an annual Christmas feast is organized where some famous local bands perform.


Can we have these Christmas lanterns forever? ;-) Lower picture shows me (from right) with my constant lunch mates during the Annual Christmas Feast

As for us employees, we had our annual themed Christmas party. For this year, we were expected to dress in Spanish inspired costumes. When I googled images of Spain's national costume, I was given these

Photo Source here

My initial reaction, No way! I'm a proud member of the female populace but it's not in my personality to wear layered peticoat skirt, huge ruffled sleeves, black veil, flowers on my head, and dangling earrings. Purchasing or even renting this kind of outfit is likewise not in my vocabulary. I thought of an alternative costume so I came up with this

Me as the goalkeeper ;-) I am the member in the darkest jersey

Since we were only told to wear Spanish inspired costume, I thought of wearing the jersey of Spain's National Football Team. I bought a pair of jersey, which I believe is more useful and practical because I can use it for my weekend jogging. As it turns out, some of my colleagues also had the same idea. We were even nominated for best costume.

The best part of working in a Catholic school is we are given a two-week Christmas vacay. So before we parted ways, here's a group shot with my few friends

A few days before Christmas, my family was invited to the 18th birthday of my cousin. Birthday celebrations bring in mini-reunions and a few good times with my relatives

As I am writing this post, I am savoring my once a year long vacation. I usually spend my day reading books, watching movies, playing games in my pad and wishing that life will be forever like this. :-D

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T22:48:00.001+08:00

Hello everyone! Two more hours and it will be Christmas here in the Philippines. :)

Just dropped by to say

Merry Christmas

to all my blog friends, followers and readers!

Younger and happier

2011-12-23T16:47:00.001+08:00

December is my favorite time of the year for two reasons, obviously it's because of Christmas and my birthday falls on this month. When I was still doing my 30 day blog challenge, I remember sharing about my sudden desire to take a leave on my birthday. For some unknown reasons, I wanted to spend my birthday away from the city. The problem is I don't have anyone to tag along on that dream vacay and my recent trip to Taiwan left me with tons of works to accomplish. In the end, I chose to spend my day in the city with my few close friends at the workplace.

I arrived at work... LATE! Good thing the boss never really reprimands me of my tardiness. :) I've been blessed with a superior who is more concerned over quality output than any other minor concerns at the workplace. During lunch, we were invited to join another office's Christmas party. We feasted over some sumptuous Chinese dishes with a videoke machine and the classic Christmas' exchange gift.

On the day of my birthday most offices also had their respective Christmas parties. The mood at the workplace was so festive and everyone seems to be so happy. How I wish everyday would be forever like this. :) No grouchy faces for a day? It's possible!

I ordered boxes of pizza and some dessert as my birthday treat. I invited my close friends and since everyone seems to be so full on that day, I ended up having this dilemma of who will finish my birthday treat. LOL!

Everything seems to fall on the right place on my day, except for an antagonist who kinda ruined my afternoon. After covering up for an office who created a dissatisfied client, the person who holds authority in that office was kind enough not to utter any word of gratitude and leave her unfinished pizza in my face. What a great birthday gift from a gate crasher :) But since it's Christmas, my heart has already forgiven you. I just hope that next year, you will be responsible enough in cleaning up your own mess.

After work, I invited some of my friends for dinner. We ended up at Kitchen of Cakes and Coffee with these

and some cakes which I forgot to take pictures.

Except for the Christmas traffic and an office's inefficiency, everything went well on my day. I realized that despite all the negativities and bad experiences, God has been so great to me this year. I have my family, friends, and an opportunity I never asked for. Thank you Lord for another year of blessings and happiness.

Let's have some food trip at Il Mercanti

2011-12-19T22:46:00.000+08:00

One of my constant goals in life is venture to new experiences every year. Something new may include going to places I've never been, trying out new restaurants, saving up to purchase something from a shop I used to dream on, to enriching myself through a new learning opportunity.

This year, I have a few experiences to list in my table of accomplishments. Earlier this year, I was given the opportunity to visit Puerto Galera. I tried a few new restaurants such as Cafe Lidia and Pan de Amerikana. But more importantly, my trip to Taiwan serves as my greatest humbled achievement. This post will not serve as another story telling adventure of my first international trip. Though honestly, I am still overwhelmed on the entire experience. I don't however want my dear readers to become annoyed and exhausted over my repeating stories. What I will instead share here is a new and shallow food trip experience.

Last year, I forced two of my friends to join me to experience Banchetto. Banchetto is one of the pioneers in the food night market in the Philippines. This year, I was the one tagged by another group of friends to experience another famous food market in the city. Two of my fierce friends brought me to Il Mercanti!

Il Mercanti was established late this year by partners who have been doing businesses in the food industry. Il Mercanti gathers different food entrepreneurs in the heart of Pasig City from 7 pm to 4 am. As I see it, Il Mercanti targets young professionals and all those food lovers, who are in search for newer and better dining experience in the most reasonable prices.

As compared to other food night markets I've experienced, what I appreciate about Il Mercanti is the larger space, lesser crowd and more seats available for all food enthusiasts.

Enjoy some of my food shots

Enjoy the classic corn dog and some traditional Filipino street foods on a stick for only Php 15.

I would die for this!!!!! My heaven of sweetness!

Here's what we feasted

Tara's meal

Sorry I forgot the name of this dish. Sorry, Tara :).

Tinee's meal

Java rice and fried pork belly (liempo) for Tinee

Monster Burger!

As for me, I had my all time favorite Monster Burger with

Moon Leaf Tea

refreshing Lychee Nata for my drinks

Oreo Cake

and for dessert, my all time favorite and sinful Oreo Cake.

Aside from all the sumptuous food, we were also treated to a fabulous fireworks display

Thank you Tinee and Tara for bringing me to Il Mercanti. :) I enjoyed the first time experience.

Peek to Some Unique Christmas Trees

2011-12-14T19:07:00.001+08:00

I know this is a late post. By this time, I'm sure most of you have already built your own Christmas trees. But just the same, allow me to share some of the most innovative and impressive Christmas trees I encountered

A Christmas tree made of books

Photo from Library & Computing News

If you have an extensive book collection at home then why not consider this. Empty your book shelves and arrange your books to a tree just for the season.

Who can resist to this?


Photo from Keropok Man

The kid at heart in me shouts for something like this

Why not try a Christmas tree made of ribbons and buttons?

Photo from About . com

I'm sure most of my blog friends into crafts would love the idea of this tree. Your scraps of ribbon and buttons can already be elegantly reused.

How about old colorful buttons?

Photo from Cute and Sassy Designs

For the shoe addicts, a cupcake stand and a few pairs will do

Photo from Trendy Shoe Shop

Balloons or even the inexpensive Christmas decorative balls can form a tree

Photo from Celebrate it!

Photo from Groupon Lifestlye

I love this! The color combinations are so feminine and refreshing.

How about an edible Christmas tree?

Photo from Crustabakes

I love M&Ms and potato chips, but in this case I have to think twice. How can I destroy this masterpiece?

Photo from Kitchensity

Go healthy with a fruity tree!

How about with the famous Japanese dish?

Photo from Straight from the Curls

Something sweet perhaps?

Photo from Straight from the Curls

Wow, another masterpiece!

A Christmas tree from the sea?

Photo from Aqua Nerd

Photo from Wonders of the Sea

Yes, it's possible with some great collection and creativity.

A floral tree arrangement from your garden

Photo from 1-800 Flowers

Recycling also works for Christmas trees!

A tree made of bottle corks

Photo from Homedit

Old telephone directories, books and even newspapers can make small Christmas trees for your sidetables.

Photo from Recyclart

Blue and green looks so refreshing. Rival Pepsi and Sprite make a great Christmas tree!

Photo from Olympia Dumpster Drivers

I never imagined that a ladder could serve as a Christmass tree.

Photo from Toe Smile

It really works!

Photo from Groupon Lifestyle

How about a tree where time becomes so plenty? ;-)

Photo from Country Living

This reminds me of Baguio City.

Photo from I'm so Vintage

A Christmas tree on your wall?

Photo from Groupon Lifestyle

I never thought of this too.

Photo from Ego Taco

How about bikes?

Photo from Eco Hook Ups

Hats off to the people who made this.

Another unique idea,

Photo from About . com

A tree made of lobster traps

Photo from Murdocks

Pepermint pebbles

and this deserves a look

Photo from Home Re-Design

Your quiet throw pillows can turn to a tree

In case you want the traditional tree

Photo from Bothersome Toad

An Irish inspired tree with fairies and leprechauns..something like a fantasy theme

But above all the Christmas trees and other material things that excite us, I hope we don't forget this

Photo from Seaside Sundae

Exploring the Historical Tainan of Taiwan

2011-12-11T19:28:00.007+08:00

As promised, I will be sharing more pictures of my recent trip or I should say, the unexpected heaven sent opportunity.

After the conference, the management of National Cheng Kung University was gracious enough to give us a city tour of Tainan. We were particularly toured to different historical sites. What I appreciate about Taiwan is their rich history, clean surroundings, and the very accommodating citizens. I braved Taiwan with no single Mandarin word in my dictionary. What I have are printed Chinese characters of my destinations armed with my dwindling confidence, shying bravery and the dream to have my first international presentation. Though most Taiwan nationals do not speak English, they were very accommodating to clueless tourists like me. Each street is likewise equipped with CCTV cameras so you feel safe, secured even with the less police visibility.

Our first stop was the Confucius Temple

Facade of the Confucius Temple

According to our tourist guide, the temple was built in 1665 and it served as a school or as they call it, training ground for intellectuals.

Inside the Confucius Temple

More pictures within the vicinity of the Confucius Temple

This three-storey structure is so unique because each floor has a distinct shape. The first floor is square, second floor is circular and the third is octagon.

Our second stop was the Angping Fort. This site became as a central site of trading between China, Europe, and Japan. History however relates that this originally served as headquarters which aimed to protect Taiwan from foreign invaders.

Can you see those "toys for the big boys"? Here's a closer look on them

This is my first time to see soooo many Harley Davidsonsssss!

Our last stop, Fort Provintia!

It was the Dutch who led the establishment of this site in 1653. Today, the open space (as shown in the first picture) becomes a regular venue for night concerts.

I hope you enjoyed this post. I haven't made any Christmas related post yet because I am so occupied with all the office and teaching works I left. When school is over and I have plenty of time with my family, I will share how me and my family celebrate Christmas.

Till my next post :)

Day 1 - Diane in Tainan, Taiwan

2011-12-06T00:07:00.001+08:00

Diane, Tainan, Taiwan, notice the rhymes? Was this a sign that I was meant to reach the place? Or was it a mere coincidence? Whatever it is, Taiwan would always have a special place in my heart. It served as the place where I experienced many firsts in my entire life. Taiwan was the place where I made my first international flight alone, my first trip abroad and more importantly, it hosted my first ever international research presentation.

I flew to Taiwan in an economy plane. As a result, my flight was scheduled on those wee hours. I left Manila at 11:30 pm and arrived at around 1:30 am in Taoyuan Airport. My original plan was to reach Tainan, the venue of my conference, through the High Speed Train. To my surprise, I learned that their train does not operate 24/7. The first trip starts at 6:30 am. Whew! As it was my first trip alone, I felt so nervous inside the airport. Well to be honest, I was the only person left in the arrival area of Terminal 1. I asked for suggestions from the lone English speaking airport personnel. Mr. Courteous Airport personnel sought the assistance of a heaven sent English speaking national, who incidentally made a recent trip to the Philippines. They suggested alternative means for me to reach Tainan. My problem was resolved by the 24/7 U Bus roaming around Taiwan.

The shuttle bus arrived at 3 am and I was transported to the 24/7 central bus station. Another non-English speaking man helped and sold me NTD (New Taiwan Dollar) 300 ticket to Tainan. At 3: 30 am, I was already on board to Tainan. It was during this time when my mother was scolding me through a series of text messages. She was not supportive of my decision to take the bus alone. She insisted that I wait inside the airport for like 4 hours. The hard headed me however prevailed. I braved the cold and dark streets of Taiwan.

I never felt an inch of sleepiness inside the bus, despite the fact that I was up the entire night. After 4 long hours, I safely reached Tainan. The bus driver referred me to a taxi that brought me to my hotel. I will forever be thankful to the Taiwanese because of these few helpful people I encountered. Despite the fact that most of them do not speak and understand the international language I know, they exerted all means to help the clueless tourist in me.

So much story about my journey to Tainan. Allow me now to share a few pictures of the safe, peaceful and beautiful Tainan

My first shot of Tainan

Far Eastern Shangri-la Plaza lobby

In case anyone among you would be interest to travel in Tainan, I highly recommend Far Eastern Shangri-la Hotel. It may not be as grandiose with the interiors of the Philippines' Shangri-la hotels but their service counted the most. The staff can fluently speak in English, very accommodating and responsive to the needs of the customers. The breakfast buffet is one of the best I've tried, wifi connection is fast and can even be extended in the comfort of your own rooms.

Aerial View of Tainan inside my suite

Tainan downtown

Motorcycles are the most common form of public transportation in Taiwan. Only a few people own cars. In effect, most parking spaces are occupied by these bikes.

How I wish residential sites in the Philippines would have something like this. Clear sidewalks, benches and some sparks of greeneries.

Here is the university that hosted my presentation

National Cheng Kung University

Allow me to first catch up with my teaching tasks. On my next posts, I will share more pictures and stories about my experience in Tainan.

Day 30 - Mission Accomplished Times Two

2011-12-05T03:43:00.000+08:00

Day 30! I can't wait to type these words in my post. Woohoooo! I'm done with my 30 day blog challenge. Now I can finally and happily say, mission accomplished.

But why does my title says "mission accomplished times two?" If you have been reading my previous posts, you know the reason. I accomplished two major tasks. Aside from this everyday blog challenge, I made it to Taiwan for my first ever international research presentation. After all the drama, rants and worries, I was able to present one of my hard worked researches in a prestigious school in Taiwan. To all of my friends who prayed and supported me in this endeavor, I don't need to mention your names. You know who you are! From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU VERY MUCH!

When I started the 30 blog day challenge, I knew that my journey to Taiwan will be a part of it. But as you can see, I waited for this day to relate the details of "the one great endeavor" I've been repeatedly saying. I kept my mouth shut because I almost thought I wouldn't make it to Taiwan. But God has been so good to me. He made all means to make me fulfill one of my greatest wishes.

On my next post, I will share pictures and stories about my experience in Taiwan. And before I forget, I mentioned in my Day 1 post that something big is happening in this blog on Day 30. I will be hosting my second humble giveaway within the week. So please stay tuned for the complete details.

For now, I have to attend to some tasks I left at work. My students and office works, I need to catch up a lot. Added to this the upcoming Christmas parties, dinners and reunions I have to attend. Now I can finally feel that Christmas is coming soon...

Till my next post! Wishing everyone a great week ahead.

Day 29 - My Favorite Holiday

2011-12-04T03:03:00.004+08:00

This explains why Christmas remains to be my favorite holiday of the year

Day 28 - A Great Dream Fulfilled

2011-12-03T21:48:00.000+08:00

If you have been reading my recent posts, you are more or less familiar with all the worries and restlessness I've been ranting over the past days. Today, that one great endeavor is over and I could finally say MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! Wooohooo!

Allow me to break all the suspense and relate where, when and what I've been to. Months ago, my research was accepted for international presentation. I was almost so close to that dream except for a major hindrance. I was not financially prepared to fly and stay in Taiwan. I applied for funding opportunities, which later gave me tons of disappointments and failures. I felt exhausted and gave up my dream. I believe God wanted me to pursue this opportunity so He made all means to fulfill my dream. I made it to Taiwan and successfully had my first ever international research presentation. Well to be honest, I made a lot of firsts in this experience. It was my first international flight, first attempt to reach another country and first time to travel alone! How about that?

Pardon me for cutting this post early. I just came home and still needs to recover a lot of sleep from an early 1 am flight. I will definitely blog more about the experience over the next days. For now, please allow me to zzzzzzzz.

Day 27 - Optimism

2011-12-03T00:44:00.000+08:00

Another confession to make, this is another scheduled post. I'm not sure whether I will have internet access on this day. But today, I hope I am already reunited with my family. The one great endeavor is hopefully... successfully over. I will reach home safe and full of happy memories to cherish...

If I have the chance, I will update this within the day. Hopefully I can already breathe on this day. Whew!

Day 26 - I'm still alive today because

2011-12-01T02:33:00.003+08:00

I believe only Gods knows the real reason why I am alive today. But if God would personally asked me this question, here's my honest response. I still have a lot of things to accomplish. He made me for a reason. He wants me to discover and experience for myself the purpose of my existence.

And a little confession to make, this is actually a scheduled post. By the time you are reading this I am fighting every inch of nervousness penetrating in my body.

I hope I can make it.. successfully

Day 25 - Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-30T10:25:00.004+08:00

Day 24 - A recent purchase

2011-11-29T08:43:00.000+08:00

Indeed!

Purchased something I will be using for this one great endeavor. Please pardon all the suspense I've been making. I promise to blog about this as soon as I can say "mission accomplished"

For now, please pray and send me all the luck in the world. :) I am so nervous and restless about everything. Whew! Breathe! Breathe! Breathe!

Day 23 - Something you crave a lot

2011-11-28T02:22:00.003+08:00

Crave? I always associated such powerful word to these

Happy Monday! :)

PS I'm joining Mary's Little Red House Mosaic Monday Party

Day 22 - Something I will never get tired of doing

2011-11-27T02:21:00.033+08:00

Here we go for another ala Miss Universe question ;-) Here's my honest answer for this question: I will never get tired of loving, writing and working for my family. Three things: LOVE, WRITE and WORK.

I would never get tired of loving. Remember the greatest quote from Moulin Rouge?

I think this already explains everything. Like all the songs mention, it is the greatest gift, my only wish, can move mountains, we all have the perfect descriptions for love. At the end of the day though, there is no other thing in this world that could replace or even appear as a close substitute for love.

I would never stop writing. As in never! Writing gives me freedom and the feeling that I still have self worth. Writing will forever remain to be my first love. You can take away everything from me, but never my love and passion for writing.

Working.. Though I have a love and hate relationship with work, this is something I will never regret doing. Working has opened doors of opportunities, success, failures and best of all, a lot of learning. And though it is called work, working makes me feel that I am forever a student who thirsts for knowledge and never gets tired of learning things. Working entered me to the real school of life. I met and learned from different people, gained and lost friends, and taught me real theories of life that can never be felt and understood in the four corners of the classroom.

Five to Ten years from now, my answers might no longer be the same. Priorities and point of views might change. New people may enter to my life. But as of today, I will hold on to these choices. No one could even force me to trim down my choices. All I know is that as of now, these are the things that will always complete me.

Happy Sunday to everyone.

Day 21 - Current TV Show Addiction

2011-11-26T12:20:00.001+08:00

Photo source here

I am not really into TV series. I remember watching Sex and City in an on and off basis. I accidentally discovered this show on a lazy Saturday afternoon. I enjoyed the teaser and vowed to purchase a DVD copy of the series. Well to be honest, even though I love Jess (Zooey Desschanel) I missed a lot of episodes already. The show airs when I am usually out of our home... Friday night. Perfect ruin!

I love how Jess hillariously deals with a bad break up, especially when she would utter her sentiments to a forced song. To some extent, I wanted to have Jess' male friends too. Jess and her equally unique male housemates create the best comedy riot.

I have a lot of things to accomplish today. I will meet one of my girlfriends, errands and prepare some important things for next week. So this explains why I have this short and lousy post. ;-) Bye for now, wishing everyone a great weekend.

Day 20 - Exactly a year ago

2011-11-25T02:11:00.027+08:00

I cannot recall what exactly happened to me a year ago. I checked my 2010 planner and to my dismay, I made no entries for the month of November. Failure! But I will not give up in fulfilling the task of this challenge. Allow me to instead recall some things that made last year's November.

In the Philippines, November starts with All Saints Day and All Souls Day. My family headed to the cemetery to visit my paternal grandmother.

After five years with the Research Department, I was transferred to the Planning Office. I was already getting adjusted over my new job. It was also during this month when I started handling Economics subjects. When I started teaching, my assignment is usually concentrated on Research related subjects, since much of my experience is within this field. I almost thought that I have to bury the law and theories I have painfully learned in four years. I was given the chance to teach the subject of my expertise.

Off from work, we had the annual Employees' Awards Night. These are the rare instances when everyone is forced to dig their cabinets and dust off those formal attires.

My paternal grandfather celebrates his birthday on November. My paternal family treated him for a sumptuous dinner. This reminds me that we need to meet up on Sunday.

When November comes, I am usually starting to feel the most awaited holiday of the year. The shopping, dinners, parties and reunions are coming in. The rush, excitement and happiness are felt everywhere. But as of this date, I still can't feel Christmas because of something that I need to accomplish. Allow me to save the details of this endeavor on a future post. For now, may I humbly request for your prayers and support. I promise to blog about this soon....

Day 19 - Someone I'm terribly missing

2011-11-24T02:08:00.019+08:00

(From Left) Baby Sophia, Jo Ann, Me, Lani and Baby Jasmin

Jo Ann and Lani are one of the world's few best girlfriends. The three of us met when we were pursuing our MBA. They came unexpectedly, but have proven to be one of the greatest additions in my life. When I went back to school, all I wanted was the degree. I was determined to finish my studies in the soonest time possible. Never had it come in my mind that I will gain a new family in that chapter of my life. These girls brought out the best in me. They were with me in those trying moments of my life. When I thought that there was no more future for me and when I stupidly fell ..... past is past hahahaha When we finished our academic years, our meetings became less frequent. We went busy with our respective lives. I tried organizing a reunion last year, which later gave me major disappointments. I vowed to never accept this role again.

Christmas is coming and I hope God will make a way for us to spend some time together. I miss you guys.

Day 18 - Self Appreciation Day

2011-11-23T04:19:00.008+08:00

Today, I will be writing a topic which I am not comfortable to deal with. Self appreciation or writing positive things about myself is the task of the challenge. Being a painfully shy and silent person, I really avoid bragging or telling other people my few and humbled accomplishments. In social gatherings and family reunions, you would most likely see me quietly observing and mingling with my small circle of acquaintances. This perhaps explains why some would label me as a sore, boring and single loser. Whatever! ;-) Tag me with all the names you want, it was never my dream to become everyone's apple of the eye anyway. I will never buy the idea of becoming the woman every man wants. I'd rather be the woman he only wants. (Oh, where did that come from? LOL)

I mentioned in a previous post that I also hate self proclaimed achievements or titles. I made a lot of encounters with them, let's not just mention where. Otherwise, some gossipers and squealers will be treated to a feast. (Again, I can feel you LOL) What I will instead share here are some words of appreciation I received from a few close persons.

One of my former superiors told me that I always get the job done on time. I can prepare the reports and beat the deadline. Wow, that was all music to my ears. At least, I have proof that I am not an employee who only works for payday. Some of my former students also told me that I am so patient and considerate in dealing with them. At the very least, my students recognize the efforts that contribute to the early unwanted lines and years on my face.

Aside from my teaching and office jobs, I also handle free lance works. I help masteral students who are writing their theses. What I could proudly say is that all of my clients successfully passed their defense. Little do they know, I am equally nervous on the outcome of their papers. Their grade also serves as my performance indicator as a research consultant. So far, my record remains unblemished. Thank God. :)

I guess that would be it. Love me or hate me, at the end of the day.. this is the true me. :)

Photo owned by Roger Hargreaves "Little Miss Shy"

Day 17 - Trying the shoes of another person

2011-11-22T02:54:00.004+08:00

Photo source here

For this day, the challenge is to identify someone you would want to switch lives with for one day.

I am a silent and boring person. I know some of you will not agree with me because I talk a lot in my blog. Added to it the fact that I am a part time educator. How come? Who would ever thought that teachers are quiet and shy persons? If we meet in person, you will surely find me shy and quiet. I admit I wasn't born with excellent interpersonal skills. To some extent, this even made me earn a negative reputation from a few cousins and relatives. Well this is what I have to say, I may not interact that much in person but that doesn't give other people enough reasons to criticize me. My few close friends can prove that I am not after all the worst person in the heads of some narrow-minded people.

Knowing I have this weakness, I avoided careers that require a lot of talking and socializing. This could also explain why I fell in love with writing. I also ventured to a full time job that doesn't require much interaction with other people. I spend the day in front of my computer reviewing policies, conducting some statistical analysis and writing technical reports.

If I would be given the chance to switch or try another person's life, I wanted to be in the shoes of someone who appears to be my complete opposite. For at least a day, I wanted to experience a "loud" and highly interactive career. Sorry for the lack of term ;-) The life of a famous celebrity, talk show host, or perhaps a journalist. I'm just curious how it feels when everyone in the country equally knows your name and half of your life, meeting countless number of people, thousands of acquaintances and friends and seeing different places. If given the chance I wanted to see for myself how some people find happiness in the life I never imagined to have.

Day 16 - Do you collect something?

2011-11-21T03:58:00.011+08:00

Before I answer that question I just have to say this, Wohooo!!! I'm half way of my 30 day blog challenge!!!!!

Now back to regular programming ;-) Yes. I collect a lot of things during my younger years and this has become a source of those petty arguments with my mother. I always irritate my mother as a result of my desire to accommodate a lot of things in my small room. Before, I collect scented stationeries, stickers and letters from my friends. And those personally handwritten letters? I still keep them. I also mentioned in a previous post that I used to collect this

Stamps from all over the world!

I wanted to revive this collection but the problem is how? The presence of email and social networking sites made communication faster and easier, which somehow defeats the nostalgic and personal approach of letter writing. Despite the fact that we are already in the digital age, I still appreciate receiving personally handwritten notes.

My Jet Li film collections

One of my greatest wishes is to complete his entire line up of films. So to my local friends, you have an option what to give me this Christmas :-) Aside from Jet Li, I also collect DVDs of my favorite movies because if I become a millionaire, I will surely construct a mini theater in my new home. Okay, somebody has to slap me to wake me up from dreaming.

Today is a Monday and to start my day I'd like to recite my favorite "Monday chant." You want to hear it?

Here I am shouting this

FRIDAY! FRIDAY! FRIDAY!

LOL

Wishing everyone a great week ahead!

Day 15 - On Dreams and Ambitions

2011-11-19T05:26:00.003+08:00

A week ago I have posted my birthday wish. Some of my blog friends greeted me already but the truth is, my birthday is still on December. ;-) I made that post because all of a sudden, I found myself contemplating on my past birthday celebrations.

For this day, I will not be sharing another birthday wish, but some of my short and long term goals.

My first wish is to finally shed off the excess lbs I have gained in a year. Sorry for ranting so much about my weight gain. But the truth is, I am affected every time a colleague or relative would tell me that I am becoming healthier! A painless way of saying "you are getting so fat" In a span of a year, I gained 20 lbs and you know that is something not healthy too. I wanted to lose weight not for show off purposes. I just want to become healthy for the rest of my life.

I hope to find my own niche of specialization at work. Before, I always dream of promotion and position. But I later realized that position doesn't necessarily mean superiority and earning the respect from your colleagues.

Pay my debts and cut my credit cards.... Hopefully the hormones responsible for producing my shopaholic attacks will cease. ;-) I wanted to live a life without those plastic electronic devices.

A fat fat fat savings account! Not because I wanted to purchase something. I wanted to feel secured and financially independent.

I wanted to become a great educator in the eyes of my students. No, I don't mean any award or citation. I just wish that my students will remember me as one of their greatest teachers.

My first international publication! A dream that would make me feel that I still gave self worth. I wanted to become immortalized in print. Hopefully, my first attempt to enter the international field of research will be a success.

And of course, that one great wish....

Wishing everyone a great Sunday!

Day 14 - Regrets

2011-11-19T04:38:00.005+08:00

If there is one thing in your life you regret doing, what would that be? Why?

I often hear this question in beauty pageants. And the equally often response I encounter is "I never felt any form of regret in my entire life." Boooo! hahahaha Seriously and honestly, I could never render such kind of response. Come on, no one is perfect. We have a perfectly imperfect life, so there's a sure chance that you regret doing or not doing something. But you see, I don't totally view mistakes and wrong decisions negatively. These mistakes turned regrets simply gave me a painful way of learning things. Things just didn't turn out the way we wanted or expected, so that's when regret comes to the picture.

I have my own share of countless mistakes which I later regret. Most of them uprooted in my inability to become courageous enough to discover things.

One of my greatest regret is my inability to learn any musical instrument. I have been fascinated by women who can play the flute and violin. I envy them and this is one thing I regret not doing. I never pursued my interest in music.

I could have performed in school better. I struggled in my Elementary to High School years. But when college came, that's when I started gaining small recognitions. It was only in college when I realized that I can make things happen. It's just that during my Basic Education years, perhaps I wasn't brave and hardworking enough to give my parents good grades.

I was forced to burn bridges, which I regretted to a certain extent. I adhered to the belief that friendship should not be a burden. Friends are supposedly there to support and pull you up. I distanced myself, kept quiet and decided to let go. This experience gave me a lot of lessons about friendship. After this storm, I became careful and literally chose the people whom I will call friends. Burning another bridge is something I never wanted to do again.

I discontinued blogging for a while and I deeply regret this now. I started blogging in 2005 and that was it. I made a lot of blogs from different platforms, which I just allowed to sleep and fade away. If only I have sustained my interest in blogging, I should already have a deep archive of 6 years.

I know this is not one of those posts that I should be proud of. But my 30 day challenge is about myself, so this is just a proof that I have my own honest mistakes turned learning experiences.

Day 13 - Communicate to a long lost friend

2011-11-18T04:18:00.008+08:00

The task of today's challenge is to communicate to a long lost friend. The first person that entered my mind for this task was Lea, one of the few best persons I met in my college years.

Lea used to be my morning chat buddy. Since our homes require two to three hours of commuting, we often overestimate traffic and travel time. The two of us always end up arriving an hour before our first subject. While my friends were not yet around, I end up sharing stories about TV shows, cute actors and sometimes people we both hate.

When I had a conflict with my circle of friends, Lea and her own group whole heartedly adopted me. They became my new lunch and study buddies. If Lea was not around, my college days would turn out to be so lonesome.

My fondest memory with Lea was when we were organizing a seminar about solid waste management in their place. Her family accepted us in their home and spoiled us with the best meals.

My friend is now having a prosperous life in Australia. She worked her way and made all those sacrifices to achieve success. Soon, she will have her own bakery and I'm very excited for her.

If ever Lea is reading this, I want her to know how much I am happy and proud of all her achievements. You deserve the best and I'm looking forward to seeing you soon.

Day 12 - A Picture that makes you happy

2011-11-17T02:46:00.006+08:00

The adorable kids in the picture are my niece and nephew. I rarely see these kids because they reside in the province. I think I only see them once or twice a year. I received so far two compliments for this picture, both from my friends. Hahaha, well sometimes that's what friendship is all about right?

For some reason, this picture never fails to make me happy, especially after a long day at work.

Day 11 - First Five Shuffled Songs

2011-11-16T07:00:00.008+08:00

I got this topic from other bloggers who engaged in the 30 day blog challenge. The task: enumerate five random songs playing in my iPod

1. I do

2.Only Reminds me of You by MYMP

3. Return to Pooh Corner by Kenny Loggins

4. Daniel by Wilson Phillips

5. Time for a Cool Change by Little River Band

I will be too busy the entire day, so here's one lousy and quick post. :-( Wishing everyone a great day.

Day 10 - 10 Facts About Me

2011-11-15T03:00:00.016+08:00

1. I don't enjoy receiving forwarded email and text messages - (unless the message is hilarious enough to make me fall from my chair or so touching to make my entire day) I actually prefer to receive simple yet personally crafted messages. A simple "how are you?" "i miss you" is always better than those chain messages.

2. I love sweets but not chocolates - I am perhaps the only person in the world who doesn't appreciate chocolates. When I was a kid, I don't eat chocolates. Yes, I was such a weirdooo. It was only when I reached my teenage years when I started to eat chocolates.

3. I don't drink coffee and other hot drinks - I mentioned this already in a previous post. To keep me awake, I consume a bottle of Coke, which I believe has been the main culprit of my weight gain.

4. I love old songs - I grew up in the era of Spice Girls, Backstreet Boys and all those boy bands. I love them but I also enjoy hearing songs from the 80s. (Please don't laugh at me) I love Wilson Phillips, Madonna and Debbie Gibson.

5. I look older than my age... unfortunately and I hate it - A lot of people, especially some of my students always see me older than my actual age. When this happens, I almost wanted to tell them "Well this is all your fault. You make me look older than my age" LOL

6. I feel older everyday (this perhaps explain number 5) - When I stepped 25, I began to feel so old. My early 20s were the best, school is over, I'm very eager about my career and I have a lot of plans ahead. But when I reached my mid 20s, it felt like the world stopped. All of a sudden, I felt the need to change my lifestyle and priorities.

7. I don't know how to cook - Let us clarify this, I don't hate cooking. I just don't know how to do it. My mother had spoiled me with the best dishes at home. So most of the time, my role at home is to sit, eat and sleep. LOL

8. I am lazy and I love to sleep at home - This is me during weekends. I wake up late, brunch, read some books, movies and zzzzzzz.

9. I'm most of the time available for my friends - I maybe the laziest person in the world but when a friend calls me for dinner or something, expect me to be there. The fact that I'm single and so laid back can perhaps explain. So if you still have single friends, you are still so lucky. Singles are always available :)

10. I'm a grown up who still wear braces - Yup, I'm living a life with those metal wires for two years. If this makes me look young, then I want to have them forever. Contrary to what others say, having braces is not exaggeratedly painful. In my case, it took me two weeks to become adjusted to it. My first week was all about soft foods. On my second week, I can already eat potato chips, nuts and all those forbidden foods (I'm such a bad patient. Good thing my dentist don't know that I blog.)

What about you? Do you have some unique traits you want to share? I would love to read them.

Wishing everyone a great day!

Day 9 - Quotes to live by

2011-11-14T08:40:00.002+08:00

Happy Monday to everyone! We have another week to become happy and productive.

Monday for me is one the most difficult part of the week. I for sure have a weekend hangover and it takes a lot of effort to move my lazy ass from bed. So perhaps to inspire me? Or just to uplift my lazy spirits, I will try my best to write an inspiring post. No, I will not write a heart warming dramatic story here, I will instead share some of the best quotes that have (hopefully) moved me to better appreciate my life.

Here are some of my favorite quotes, hope you enjoy and appreciate them too.

To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did.

I don't know who is the author of this quote. I ended up receiving this as a forwarded text from a friend. A little confession to make though, I don't enjoy getting forwarded messages, except if it's the funniest joke or a powerful quote. I better appreciate personally crafted text messages.

These few words are perfect for me. I often find myself ranting and complaining about my life. I am always praying and hoping for better changes and improvements in my life. But come to think of it, I never realized that changes also spring from changes. If I want improvement, then I must do new things that lead to improvement.

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched- they must be felt with the heart - Helen Keller

Enough said, Helen Keller just captured everything my heart says...

At the touch of love, everyone becomes a poet - Plato

Admit it! Even those who hate writing suddenly learned to write because of love. To my fellow bloggers, I believe you have once written something for someone you love, whether they are part of your past or present.

Don't find love, let love find you. That's why it's called falling in love because you don't force yourself to fall, you just fall. - Author unknown

Hmmmm, I need my married friends to validate this. LOL!

Lastly, some months ago, a blog I follow shared this powerful Psalm

Psalm 103

² Praise the LORD, my soul,
   and forget not all his benefits—
³ who forgives all your sins
   and heals all your diseases,
⁴ who redeems your life from the pit
   and crowns you with love and compassion,
⁵ who satisfies your desires with good things
   so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
¹ Praise the LORD, my soul;
⁶ The LORD works righteousness
   and justice for all the oppressed.
⁷ He made known his ways to Moses,
   his deeds to the people of Israel:
⁸ The LORD is compassionate and gracious,
   slow to anger, abounding in love.
⁹ He will not always accuse,
   nor will he harbor his anger forever;
¹⁰ he does not treat us as our sins deserve
   or repay us according to our iniquities.
¹¹ For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
   so great is his love for those who fear him;
¹² as far as the east is from the west,
   so far has he removed our transgressions from us.
¹³ As a father has compassion on his children,
   so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;
¹⁴ for he knows how we are formed,
   he remembers that we are dust.
¹⁵ The life of mortals is like grass,
   they flourish like a flower of the field;
¹⁶ the wind blows over it and it is gone,
   and its place remembers it no more.
¹⁷ But from everlasting to everlasting
   the LORD’s love is with those who fear him,
   and his righteousness with their children’s children—
¹⁸ with those who keep his covenant
   and remember to obey his precepts.
¹⁹ The LORD has established his throne in heaven,
   and his kingdom rules over all.
²⁰ Praise the LORD, you his angels,
   you mighty ones who do his bidding,
   who obey his word.
²¹ Praise the LORD, all his heavenly hosts,
   you his servants who do his will.
²² Praise the LORD, all his works
   everywhere in his dominion.
   Praise the LORD, my soul.

I printed a copy of this Psalm and for some reason, I feel healed and relieved whenever I read it. To my blog friend (sorry I forgot) who introduced this to me, thank you very much for sharing it.

Day 8 - Great words someone told you

2011-11-13T04:00:00.008+08:00

This is another tough topic to write because honestly, there were only counted instances in my life when I was left with great words that marked a great impact in my life.

In my few years of teaching, there were only a few students who took time to personally express their gratitude to me. Though they were only email and text messages, the thought that they took time to sent those short and heart warming words are more than enough to make an impact in my life. My students don't know that I blog but in case they will discover, I would also like to thank them for the positive ratings and nice comments in my teaching performance appraisal. Words of gratitude and appreciation made me feel that I still have self-worth.

In my Basic Education years, I was the typical struggling student. My mother even has to incur additional cost for my Math tutor. When I reached college, I told myself that I would never want another hell of four years. I studied well and for the first time, I started to receive some pat from the back from some professors. One of my professors who believed in my capability is Sir Villa. He was my professor in the deadly subjects of Microeconomics, Macroeconomics and Mathematical Economics. Pardon some bragging, but it was only in his subject when I received a grade of flat 1. He even left some encouraging words in my class card. He told me to keep up the good work and vie for honors. Simple words that made me believe that I am capable of excelling.

Back in my senior year in High School, my mother gave me a Palanca letter for my retreat. My mother is not the most affectionate person in the world so the fact that she exerted the effort to write is already overwhelming. In the letter, my mother told me that she appreciates my hard-work and diligence in studying. All the while, I thought that I was only giving her headaches and worries about poor grades. That letter was powerful enough to inspire me to strive more in college.

When I started working, I was under one of the strictest bosses in the company. At first, I thought that I had the typical boss. But when I started gaining friends from other departments, I learned about the notorious image of my boss. She was strict and fears almost no one in the institution. I have no regrets of having her as my first boss. I am in fact thankful because I learned a lot from her and more importantly, I developed the discipline and patience not to become one of those hated and underestimated employees. My first boss also gave me a lot of opportunities. At the age of 21, equipped with less than a year work, I was given my first research presentation. I have to thank her for trusting me because she made me believe that I am capable to speak. She may not have told me, but those opportunities are more than enough to make me believe that I can make things happen.

So after enumerating all those significant experiences, I was moved to one realization. Whenever someone leaves me with sincere words of love, gratitude, trust, appreciation, then that is enough to make me feel great and remind me that I have done something good in my life.

Day 7 - What made you blog?

2011-11-12T19:34:00.000+08:00

Before I answer this question, allow me to relate my own blogging story. I started blogging in 2005. Back then, I was starting to work and pursuing my masteral studies. Those were the days when I am 115 lbs and can survive months of no shopping. ;-) I made my first blog in a defunct social networking site, Friendster. I usually post lyrics of my favorite songs, ranted about my life and expressed the story of my unreciprocated immature...love whatever! (Oooops, do I remember someone?) My everyday internet exposure made me discover other platforms that provide blogging services. I explored and opened accounts from Blogger, Multiply and Livejournal. These efforts were all products of my impulsive curiosity and enthusiasm. In effect, these accounts remain dormant and later fade away.

When I finished my masteral studies, I was determined to recover my expenditures and earn money apart from my regular job. That's when I decided to reactivate my sleeping Blogger account. I wrote again and signed up for Google Adsense. To my biggest surprise, Google told me that my blog was suspected of doing illegal activities. How come? How can a dormant Blogger account be capable of spreading malicious internet activities? Perhaps my account was hacked or spammed. I didn't dare to discover the reasons. I instead shifted to Wordpress to revive my lost interest in blogging. However, I learned that most earning writers use Blogger as their platform. So the prodigal daughter had no choice but to return to Blogger and opened this account.

As I read stories of successful bloggers, I learned a common denominator. Most of them opened a blog to pursue their passion to write. Earning later came as a bonus surprise. My blogging story is evidently a huge contradiction. God perhaps wanted to awaken me so more than earning, He gave me another significant reason to blog. I earned something more than money. I gained blog friends all over the world.

So to all my followers and friends who regularly take time to see my blog, thank you very much. The thought that there are people who devote part of their precious time to read my silly posts already makes me shudder in delight. If I didn't gain some friends in the blogosphere, I will for sure relate a different blogging story. But knowing I have friends to share stories is more than enough reason to make me love blogging.

Day 6 - In the past month, what have you learned?

2011-11-11T07:08:00.076+08:00

Whew! I wanted to answer this question by relating in detail a recent experience. But I don't have intentions of providing some squealers and gossipers their dream feast. (Hey, I can see you LOL!) I will instead share some realizations from a not-so-good experience I endured over the past months.

When you have a dream, chase it for yourself. Never wait and expect for other people to help you fulfill that dream.

Though things are gradually getting better for me, I have learn this lesson the hardest and the most complicated way. We all have dreams and most inspirational books I've read always relate that successful people are marked by their capacity to dream. So in one way or another, we could say that each of us have the potential to become successful. However, what often differentiates successful people is their capability to make each day as a path to that dream. Successful people also depend to only one person in fulfilling their dreams. And that person happens to be their own self.

I wish I could always live and abide by those principles of success. Problem is, no theory or principle could ever explain and dictate life and success. Life is meant to be perfectly imperfect. We cannot depict any trend, pattern or formula in achieving our dreams. Each of us will surely have our unique bitter sweet story of success.

If you have a dream, then go forth and chase it! However, fulfilling a dream is not easy as dreaming for it. Expect sleepless nights, sacrifices, tears and all forms of tortures. Oh did I say to prepare for some antagonists camouflaged as angelic protagonists? I have countless experiences with them. I know I sound too pessimistic but this is just the painful reality of life. Life is made of battles that would injure us. Ironically, we still choose to venture in endeavors that will surely hurt us. But at the end of the day, no matter what other people say, it's only us who can say whether we have achieved real success.

Day 5 - A Birthday Dream

2011-11-10T06:01:00.001+08:00

I usually spend my previous birthdays at work. Though I could easily take a leave on my day, I prefer not to do it for reasons I don't know. I have been blessed with superiors who easily approve vacation leaves but unfortunately, I don't take advantage of it. I know a lot of people might slap me for not using this privilege. I'm throwing an opportunity which some people have to beg and pray for. Well, sometimes life is painfully designed that way, right? You cannot get what you really want. If you are one of those who are bored and unhappy with a blooming career and lovelife, then consider me as your greatest envious enemy. LOL, so we are now even.

On my past birthdays, I wake up early for work, get up in a new dress, treat my closest friends for merienda and later have dinner with them. I go home late and check my Facebook and other social networking accounts. This is my usual, monotonous but happy birthday celebrations.

Over the past days, I found myself contemplating on the idea of changing my usual birthday celebrations. All of a sudden, I am longing for a three-day birthday vacay. If given the chance, I would like to spend my birthday in a relaxing place. I wanted to be in a place that is quiet, tranquil and close to nature. My ideal place is a combination of Tagaytay, Caleruega and Club Balai Isabel.

I will sleep in a relaxing log cabin that provides me a spectacular view of the entire place

have breakfast in the terrace while enjoying the view and sunrise

feel the cool morning breeze and walk along the shores

In the afternoon, I'll be served with my favorite dishes

and in the evening, I wanted to experience this

Photo from Wikipedia

which I fell in love from this movie,

Scene from Tangled

Some may find this silly, but I still believe in the magic of these childish things. Not all people know, but I am a proud grown up who remains to be very kid at heart.

Day 4 - Growing up with books

2011-11-09T08:58:00.000+08:00

Reading is a pastime I've learned to love as I get ... younger ;-) When I was still studying, I saw reading as a burdening task. I hated history and literature subjects. I didn't enjoy classical novels and later writing a comprehensive book report. The only books I would love to read are those famous teenage sequels. Remember Francine Pascal's Sweet Valley Kids, High and University? I was once addicted to the twins, Elizabeth and Jessica. Back in Elementary, I would hurry to the Library every dismissal time and race over borrowing the newest copy of the series.

When I reached the sixth grade, I lost interest over the twins and later discovered the following books,

For those who are not familiar, The Baby-Sitters Club is a novel series about a group of middle school students who decided to run a baby-sitting business. They would baby sit kids in order to earn and raise funds. The members of the group are actually best friends and the story evolved on their baby-sitting adventures and common experiences of kids entering their teenage years.

I enjoyed reading The Baby-Sitters Club because I can identify with the characters of the story. I even share the same struggle to some of them. Growing up painfully shy, struggling with Math subjects, being disliked by some classmates for no reason at all and wishing that I have my own group of trusted friends, this novel series gave me the company and understanding I needed during that struggling stage of growing up.

Anyone familiar with these books? These are the Choose Your Own Adventure (CYOA) series. CYOA is like a gamebook where the reader is presented with an initial story. The reader will later be given choices. The reader's decision will lead to a unique ending. What I love about these series, I learned the process and consequences of decision making. I remember reading a story about being trapped in an island. My first choice was to stay in the island and hope for rescue to come. The ending of such choice? I was forever trapped in the island and was forced to face my new life. That simple fiction brought some impact in my life at an early age. If I want real changes and improvements in my life, then I must make a move. I can't sit down and wait for some heaven sent blessings to come. And up to this point, that principle thrives in me. It's equivalent to saying that in life, to get things you never had, you have to do something you never did.

How about you? What are the books you have learned to love as you were growing up?

P.S. Photos are not owned by the author. Sources are linked to each picture.

Day 3 - The Soundtrack of my Life

2011-11-08T08:00:00.017+08:00

The song that could depict my life now

Here is the exact lyrics of the song

Welcome to a new day

Don't know whats on the way

But whatever it is I'll be ready

On your mark get set go

Here's the show and the road

But with you it's a load I can carry

And with each breath I would take it

Every moment gonna make it

It's a wonderful crazy

It's a beautiful out of control

Kinda scary amazing

But I don't really mind at all

It's like I'm falling, flying, laughing, crying

Hanging on and letting go

Cause my life' so wonderful crazy crazy

Some days get intense

And breakdown my defense

But I'm here and I'm not giving up

Gonna take in the sights

On the ride of my life Living just to survive is not enough  

So much love to discover I don't need any other

It's a beautiful crazy

I'ts a beautiful out of control  

Kinda scary amazing But I don't really mind at all

It's like I'm falling, flying, laughing, crying

Hanging on and letting go

Cause my life' so wonderful crazy crazy

And I just have to post this for my friend Anne

You were so right my friend.....

Day 2 - My Favorite Movies

2011-11-07T08:00:00.019+08:00

Watching movies in bed over lazy afternoons is something I look forward every weekend. But the work after teaching prevents me to regularly enjoy this stress busting activity. And because of this, I suddenly wanted to count the days before we have our Christmas break... I can't wait for the weeks when I have the luxury of time of sleep late and cocoon in bed the next day.

While I wait for the best lazy days, allow me to share with you some of the movies I enjoyed.

27 Dresses

Let's not detail why I fell in love with this movie. My close friends can explain how and why the hopeless romantic in me can relate to Jane Nichol's (Katherine Heigl) character.

Julie and Julia

I was very reluctant to purchase a DVD copy of this film. But the awards and nominations it received made me take it home. My doubts about the film were erased when I watched this in one boring weekend afternoon. If you love to cook and you are into blogging, then this is a must see film.

Fast Five

I have always been a fan of the Fast and Furious series. This is one of the few movies for the boys that I've learn to love.

The Forbidden Kingdom

Fans of Jackie Chan and Jet Li will never forget this movie. This is the first and lone film where two of the best Chinese superstars came together in one movie.

I was able to watch this film when I was still an active member of Video City, one the famous video rental shops in the Philippines. I was forced to watch this film because I was so bored and all the good movies in the rack were already rented. But after watching the movie, I realized that it wasn't a bad last resort at all. I love the movie's simple and cheesy plot, as most of my friends would say.

My Sassy Girl

I reviewed this film in one of my blog posts. Same with Pretty Woman and 27 Dresses, I have low expectations over this film. I never knew that this film would later be one of best love stories I have ever watched.

Dear John

The movie's ending diverted much from the original ending of the book. (Well, isn't always like that?) More than the love story, what I appreciated over the film is the depiction of John's relationship over this father.You can learn more about this film in this post.

The Little Rascals

Who would not love this movie? Love, friendship, happiness and cuteness! Who could ever resist them?

One of the educators I admire is found in Katherine Ann Watson's (Julia Roberts) character. Yes she is not perfect. She is hardheaded but fierce enough to make a difference in the academic system.

These are so far a shortlist of my favorite movies of all time. I'm sure I have forgotten something and this list will continuously be updated over the next days, months and years. The movie fan in me will never stop to discover and enjoy more masterpieces.

How about you? What are your all time favorite movies? I would love to hear them too.

P.S. Photos are not owned by the author. Sources are linked to each photo.

Day 1 - A big challenge awaits

2011-11-06T08:00:00.005+08:00

Mark this day, the 6th day of November 2011. Something exciting is coming out of this blog after 30 days. What would that be? Let's play some suspense and discover that after a few weeks. For now, I hope you could focus your attention to a challenge I will be undertaking. My blog will soon turn one and to celebrate this, I am engaging myself to the 30 day blog challenge. Hooray!

But what exactly is the 30 day blog challenge? For 30 consecutive days, I will challenge myself to produce a daily post. Yes, I have to blog everyday! I have assigned topics to write each day and let's leave that as a big surprise too.

So to start things right, let me declare this day as DAY 1 of the 30 day blog challenge.

For Day 1, I am sharing with you a portion of my wishlist. Aside from love and happiness, my wishes serve as one of the sources of my inspiration. (Errrr, how cheesy! hahaha)

1. A Fat Savings Account - Soon I will replace my father as the family's bread winner. Before I embrace that role, I hope to raise enough funds for my family. I also don't want to become a burden to others as I enter old age. I wanted to become financially independent.

2. Happy Work and Successful Career - I would be the happiest if I would achieve both. I wanted to remain happy with my work. I wanted to learn and accomplish more things and later establish myself to a niche of my own specialization. Half of my life right now is all about work. I love my work despite of the ups and downs it give me. In the future though I hope my work would love me back. More than promotion, I wanted to professionally grow and develop my own expertise.

3. Vacation House at Tagaytay - Most of my friends don't know how much I fell in love with Tagaytay. I know there are a lot of better places in the Philippines but Tagaytay for me would remain special. I made a lot of happy memories in this place and I just love the spectacular view of the Taal Lake, lush greenery and the cool temperature which I rarely experience in the city.

4. My own car - Driving my own car was a dream I have ever since I was a child. I just love the idea of having the independence to reach places without the hassles and misadventures of commuting.

5. Continuous freelance works - Aside from my full time job, I accept free lance works in the form of research writing and consultation. So far, this job has given me additional money to fatten my savings account, treat my family to a lavish dinner and of course occasional shopping money. Over the next years, I hope to have referrals from my previous satisfied clients and accommodate more work to love.

6. That silent and secret wish ;-) - If this wish will be granted, I promise to reveal and blog about it ;-)

P.S. Photos are not owned by the author. Sources are linked to each photo.

This should be life

2011-11-02T21:26:00.005+08:00

I'm finally breaking my long silence in the blogosphere! Immediate concerns regarding my work and career came so the past days have been loaded with unexpected tasks. Hopefully before Christmas, I could happily say, "Thank God it's mission accomplished."

While most of my American blog friends enjoyed their Halloween celebration, I totally had a different holiday break. I have mentioned to some of my blog friends that Halloween is not one of those highly celebrated events in the Philippines. The most that we have here are Trick or Treat for the kids and a few Halloween parties. Nevertheless, I always look forward for the first two days of November because it meant off from work and more time to spend with my dearest family.

On the last day at work, I had dinner with my friend Anne. That night came as a breather! Thank God I have Anne. A once in a while lavish dinner with the company of a great friend, what more could I ask for? On the next day, I was able to drag my lazy ass from bed and had my regular weekend jogging. In the afternoon, I was able to treat my mother for a movie date. Hooray! I felt so accomplished. Over the next days, I stayed home, read books, slept for as long as I wanted and I was able to complete some of my freelance works. I hope life would always be like this.

On November 1, my family headed to the cemetery to visit my Lola's (grandmother) grave. My Lola and most of my late relatives were laid to rest in the same cemetery, so All Saints Day also meant having happy family reunions.

Before November 1 ended, I was able to treat my family to a sumptuous Chinese take out. Great food spent with the family, priceless happiness! The stress and pressures about work were suddenly gone. How I wish everyday would be like this. Food, family, happiness and love.... this is life!

Laugh it out

2011-10-26T17:00:00.001+08:00

In the middle of a typical work day, I found this picture in my Facebook wall.
Yes, hands up! I admit to steal some working hours to check my Facebook account.

The first three words I found

1. Funny

2. Broke

3. Fat

LOL! I know this was just a fake and silly game. But all the words I have captured describe me.

The past days have not been good for me. Minor problems, worries and issues about myself are just starting to pile and distract me. God perhaps wanted to cheer me up so aside from this useless funny thing, I also had a good laugh, with my bestfriend in the workplace, during our afternoon break.

Thank you Lord for making me happy, despite of everything.

Savor and Enjoy Life

2011-10-23T20:59:00.000+08:00

Our school failed to make it to the basketball finals of the Philippines' National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). :-( If you have read my previous post, you know how much I was a big basketball fan in my younger years. Though I failed to watch our basketball games over the past years, my interest and support to our team never ceased. Next year, our school will be the host of the league's 88th season. And though I don't have any Chinese blood, I believe in the luck that number 8 brings. For the Chinese, the number 8 symbolizes a never ending loop of luck. I hope that luck will be with us next school year.

After the heart breaking loss, Tara and Tinee invited me for dinner at Greenhills. As always, food never fails to make me happy. So I shouldn't be wondering why I am gaining lbs all this time. It was my first time to try Army Navy. These made my dinner

The burger is good but I appreciated more their unique spicy french fries and special iced tea.

Another shot for the lethal weight gain combo!

After our heavy dinner, we had milk tea at Happy Lemon

Wink! I love the cute packaging.

Thank you Tinee and Tara for giving me two in a row first time experiences. And starting this day, I would live on that words of wisdom you both gave me. We only live once so I might as well savor and enjoy all the delicious things that this world can offer...literally and figuratively (ending this post with a naughty smile!)

Have a great week to everyone!

What I am reading

2011-10-21T09:46:00.003+08:00

For my fellow Filipino book lovers, this is surely a late post. There have been a lot of reviews written for Samantha Sotto's Before Ever After.

I bought the book last August, but at that time, I was still engrossed with Stieg Larrson's sequel of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I started reading this book last week and I am so far enjoying my slow and quiet time with it.

To give you a preview of Before Ever After, spare a few minutes to watch the official book trailer

Here's another virtual tour of the book

I will not write anything that will spoil you of the novel's plot. I would instead introduce my blog friends and readers abroad to the Filipino author.

Like most of my blog friends, Samantha is a mom. She would drive one of her kids to school everyday. In order to save gas, e-pass and kill time, she stays in the same spot at Starbucks Katipunan. She would read books and later conceptualized the story of Before Ever After. I also learned that she was not contented with the ending of The Time Traveler's Wife and this influenced her to write her first novel. She worked her way. She submitted her own novel to literary agents abroad and the rest was a sweet and inspiring story of success.

I'm making this post for Bonnie and Ricki Jill's What We're Reading #9.

Wishing everyone a great weekend.

Some information about Samatha Sotto was lifted from Christine Dychiao's interview with Samantha Sotto for the Philippine Star's On the Radar.

Welcome to the Shoe Fête!

2011-10-16T19:03:00.002+08:00

I think they hate shoes? ;-)


Paula Abdul

Jessica Alba

Christina Aguilera

Mariah Carey

Miley Cyrus


Paris Hilton

Khloe Kardashian

Rachel Zoe's Studio

Oprah

And recently, I found this in my friend's blog

You rock Janeca!

and I just realized that I am starting to hate shoes too ;-)

Happy Sunday and wishing everyone a great week ahead. :-)

The first 10 photos in this post are not owned by the author. Photo sources are linked in the captions.

Cringe

2011-10-15T21:21:00.001+08:00

Warning: nasty picture and story ahead

A mall wide sale that lasts until 12 midnight on a payday Friday, what more can shopaholics ask for? After work, I rushed to the mall and searched for a nice discounted top. I went to one of my favorite shops and tried a blouse. Size medium didn't fit. As I take off the blouse, I was surprised with a depressing reality. My back is beginning to develop nasty flabs.

I walked out of the shop sad and regretful. Why did I allow this to happen? I weighed 120 lbs two years ago. Now, I am screaming 140 lbs at 5'4." I felt ashamed of myself.

The solutions are obviously diet, exercise and commanding DISCIPLINE! How I wish these three magic words are easy to execute, in the same way as I type them. I've been jogging every weekend morning for almost a month ~~and trying to avoid Coke and cakes~~. What I benefited so far are aching legs and thighs. So far, no inch of weight loss observed and felt.

Just to prove how much I abused my body in two years, take a look at this piece of history

Look at my picture in the middle, cringe!

Faith, Prayers and Food!

2011-10-10T21:59:00.005+08:00

Ever since I became employed with a Catholic education institution, attending the Our Lady of La Naval procession was an annual activity we have to attend. Further details about the history of the Our Lady of Naval can be found in this site.

The La Naval procession is held during the second Sunday of October. Along with June to September, October forms the notorious typhoon months in the Philippines. My past La Naval processions are miraculously blessed with a good weather. However last Sunday's procession was different. We were tested with this

It was raining profusely before the procession started. All of us were wondering whether the procession will continue. But when the image of the Our Lady of La Naval was moved out of the St. Domingo Church, the rainy suddenly subsided. I believe the power of the devotees' prayers and faith worked.

I joined the procession, with Tinee and Tara, and before we parted ways we had dinner to a restaurant I haven't tried.

Welcome to Chicken Charlie!

and look what we had for dinner

Chicken Charlie is one of the best restaurants in the heart of Banawe, Quezon City. Not all Filipinos may realize that Banawe is known for two reasons. It serves as a central market for cheap car accessories and spare parts and a haven for the best foods in town. Car accessories and food? Not really a perfect match but Banawe have proven that it is possible.

One of the best chickens I have tasted in my entire life would be from Chicken Charlie. The restaurant claims that they have a unique approach in frying their chickens. This approach and secret spices make their chicken crispy, but not greasy, and flavors are bursting as you savor each piece.

Taste is exceptional for Charlie's Chicken. But in terms of price, I could say that Charlie's Chicken will not cause a big damage to your pockets. Prices are affordable.

Great food at great prices, what more can you ask for!

For the benefit of my international readers, a US dollar equates to around Php 45. A budget of Php 500 or $11 will already go a long way for four people.

Wishing everyone a great week!

10 more things about me

2011-10-08T22:57:00.001+08:00

Got no topic to write so I resort to my last option, blog about myself. Although I have devoted an entire page that relates things about myself, such is not complete. As I turn ~~older~~ younger, I know there will be changes, hopefully more improvements about myself.

Allow me to share 10 weird things about myself that I bet most of you are not aware of

1. I don't drink coffee - But I drink a lot of Coke so my body is not free from caffeine ;-) I believe I have more. Everyone in the house, workplace and my group of friends drink coffee. I never learned to love coffee and all those "awakening" hot drinks. While most of my colleagues would purchase a cup of coffee to keep them awake, I'd rather go to 7-11 and have my can of Coke.

2. Jet Li is my greatest crush - Yeah, he isn't handsome. He is short and his rough face isn't worthy of a facial wash endorsement. He got all those craters of pimple marks but I still loooove him. I always watch his movies (though I admit some of them are just so crappy) and collect both VCDs and DVDs of them. (So to my close friends, you know what to give me this Christmas ;-)

3. I am very kid at heart - I love stuff for kids.

4. I ~~hoard~~ collect cute and elegant notebooks - My trip to every mall would always make me purchase a nice notebook.

5. I can't play any musical instrument -and this is one of my greatest frustrations. I had no extra curricular activities during my schooling years. My life was all about studying, home and rare malling with my friends. If given the chance now, I would love to learn to play a violin.

6. I never learned to bike - I never owned a bike in the first place. I was contented in borrowing the kiddie bikes (those with training wheels) of my cousins.

7. When I was a kid, I never liked chocolates - For reasons I don't know until today.

8. I cursed my Accountancy and Law subjects - I struggled in Algebra and Geometry back in High School but I learned to handle them with the help of my greatest Math tutor, Teacher Elvie. I owe a lot to her because she removed my fear in Math subjects. She was also the first person to tell me that she enjoyed teaching me. According to her, I learn fast. When I had Accountancy and Law subjects, I swear that was the darkest moments of my college life. I also cursed my Statistics subjects but I have learned to love it when I started working. I needed it in my researches and gave me a lot of freelance works.

9. I am obsessed with color blue - Before I started working, I was blue. All of my things are in color blue. Blue bag, blue shoes and blue clothes!

10. I love potatoes - I can last a week with potato dishes. (I think this is a good diet idea.) From greasy french fries, hash brown to baked potatoes, I love them. Potatoes are like my chocolates.

It's a Saturday weekend and I originally planned to jog in the morning. But the weather is not just cooperating with my weight reduction attempts. I watched TV the entire day, slept and sure I am 2 lbs heavier and unhealthier again by the end of the month. Unhealthier? Did I just say that my lower right abdomen is hurting. I hope this is not something serious. Hope this was just caused by lying in bed the entire day. LOL but deep inside worried.

Have a great and healthy weekend to everyone.

A priceless word of grattitude is enough

2011-10-07T00:59:00.004+08:00

After almost a week, your negligent blogger is back! Sorry for not updating, the week has just been so busy with these at work

that extends at home

I love teaching, but.. fine, hands up! I admit to have a love hate relationship with this job. As much as I love the prestige and honor of the job, I hate the accompanying tasks it bring. I don't really enjoy checking papers, encoding scores, submitting grades and all those tedious paper works.

My students are done with my examinations and I am in the process of reviewing and encoding their grades. In the middle of the busy work week, I learned from Twitter that last Wednesday was World's Teachers Day. If such was the case then we should have been treated for a break from work ;-) But we got a deadline to beat, we need to complete the grades and post them online. Definitely no time to relax and pamper ourselves.

It has been my practice to post in my other blog the examination scores of my students. Together with their student numbers, I post their final examination scores so that they gauge their class standing. I am also an avid supporter of effort recognition so that blog serves as a means to acknowledge my hardworking students.

Before I left for work last Wednesday I received this email

I would have been the happiest if the "haha" did not become a part of the email ;-)
Whether that words of gratitude were meant or meant as a joke, it made me happy. And my reply to her email, "Thank God this semester was over. hahahaha" Just kidding ;-)

Before death, I have a LIFE

2011-10-02T16:13:00.004+08:00

I've been suffering from colds for almost a week. This weekend I woke up with a slight fever again. The rain and infectious colds have prevented me to accomplish a lot of things. I can't meet Anna and Anne, can't attend to my errands and more importantly, I can't fulfill my regular weekend jogging. I stayed home the entire day and lounged in bed for a movie marathon. One of the movies I've watched was the movie adaptation of Jodi Picoult's My Sister's Keeper.

It was a sad movie that dealt with a family’s journey about cancer and death. I won’t relate much of the film but the entire story circulated on the pain and agony of having a family member stricken with cancer. The film was able to give life to the novel. But as always, there were inconsistencies with some of the details in the novel. In particular, the movie diverted much from the story's original ending .

Death is a topic I am not comfortable to discuss. As much as possible, I avoid engaging in conversations about this harsh and sad reality of life. I know we will all end there. It’s just the matter of time that becomes the issue.

Later that evening, I found a video that gave me a better view of death

Before and more than death, I should remember that I have a LIFE...

Something inspiring

2011-09-29T10:02:00.004+08:00

Thank God the weather is getting better here in Manila. The strong winds and incessant rain fall are over. To my blog friends who extended their warm wishes in my previous post, THANK YOU VERY MUCH! These are things I never expected when I started blogging.

The storm is over and life goes on. I think this means something else to me. Perhaps, that deserves another dramatic blog post. ;-) To lighten up things, allow me to share some videos that made me smile over the past stressful days.

First and foremost, I wasn't paid by Google to do this post. How I wish! It was Anji, a batchmate back in High School and a new found blog friend, who first posted this video in her inspiring blog. For some reason I enjoyed and loved most of the TV ads produced by Google. They aren't shown in the Philippines but friends residing abroad made me discover these simple yet heart warming ads.

What I love about Google's ads are the simplicity and true to life situations depicted. These ads have also proven that companies don't have to venture to expensive celebrities to convey effective and lasting messages.

Among the ads produced by Google, this one is what I loved the most

I already posted this video for my father's birthday and though I have watched it several times, this never fails to melt my heart.

At home yet restless

2011-09-27T18:36:00.001+08:00

Woke up this morning with this

a closer look would show this

Manila and its nearby regions are stricken by typhoon, Pedring.

Classes and work are suspended and I would normally rejoice whenever these happen. However, our experience with typhoon Ondoy two years ago brought a lot of changes in my family.

It was a typical rainy Saturday morning. We were aware of the typhoon's existence but everything went the same for the family. We were complacent because our place never had a history of flooding. I woke up late, had late breakfast, lunch with my family and lounged for a DVD marathon. We ignored the continuous rain because we felt we were safe. Afternoon came and flood started appearing outside our house. Flood came so fast and when evening came, the level of flood inside our house was already as high as my waist.

That evening made the longest hours of my life. My entire family didn't sleep. We waited until the flood subsided. Thank God for not prolonging our misery. At around 2 am, the flood was gone. We were left with the aftermath of flood. Stained walls, soiled floors, garbage, damaged furniture were the common surroundings in our community.

Ondoy changed my family. There were a lot of lessons learned from the typhoon.

As I woke up this morning, part of me was praying that typhoon Pedring is not another Ondoy. It's 6:22 pm and while I am checking my students' papers and nursing a cold :-( , my entire family is glued to the news. Weather reports say that the typhoon will soon depart Manila....Hopefully, the weather will be better tomorrow.

A Historic House in the City

2011-09-25T21:40:00.004+08:00

My followers and viewing statistics relate that my readership is concentrated on other countries. My few local readers usually include my friends, cousins and colleagues. I care about my few and humbled readers so I try my best to write things that would interest them.

In my almost a year of blogging, I have also noticed that I receive a lot of positive comments and hits whenever I write about my country. Topics about my country which include places, food, and traditions were my most appreciated posts. Since I value my readers, I promised myself that I would regularly write things that would interest them. Topics about my country will now be a regular content of my posts. I hope this makes my readers happy. :) In one way or another, this could also serve as my contribution in promoting the tourism industry of the Philippines. Despite all the negativities, I want to prove to everyone that my country is beautiful and worth to pay a visit.

The only people who can recognize this place are my cousins and friends who are residing in Marikina City. I hope they really do. ;-)

I was born and raised in Marikina City. This city is my home and cliche as I may sound, I would never exchange Marikina for any other place in the Philippines. Marikina is a suburban area. Marikina is mostly comprised of a small residential communities. High rise buildings and all those hustle and bustle of the city are things you cannot experience in Marikina. We have enough businesses, supermarkets, and a department store to supply your basic needs. Other than that, Marikina is simply a quiet and livable place.

Though we are a small city, Marikina is very rich in history. The shoe industry in the Philippines started and proliferated in my hometown. More than half of the local shoes in the Philippine market are made in Marikina. Gibbi, Rusty Lopez, Mendrez, Otto, Itti, Bandolino are among the famous Filipino manufactured shoes found in Marikina.

The shoe industry in Marikina started when the Philippines was still colonized by the Spanish government. A Filipino named Don Laureano Guevarra, aka Kapitan Moy, is considered as the father of the Marikina shoe industry. He started the idea of producing local shoes.

The picture above was the house of Kapitan Moy. This house is where the first local pair of shoes in the Philippines was produced. The shoemaking business in the Philippines formally started in 1887 in this house. More or less, this house is around 200 years old.

Some historical materials even relate that Kapitan Moy opened his home to the needy Filipinos. He gave employment opportunities to his fellowmen.

After the Spanish colonization, the Americans used this house for their tribunal. During the 1940s, the Japanese colonized the Philippines and this house became their army headquarters.

Today, Kapitan Moy's place remains as a historical site. The house can be rented as a venue for wedding receptions and other events. I just hope that the local government will continue its efforts in preserving this piece of history.

Did I just bore you? ;-) I hope you enjoyed my little historical post. Have a great week to everyone!

Sources of Information
Noypi.ph
Proud Marikenya

What's inside my bag?

2011-09-25T18:45:00.005+08:00

It's been a week since I last updated my blog. Pardon my silence because some free lance jobs kept coming last week. I have some small research jobs to finish within the week. Most of these jobs are still in the preliminary phase, so no earnings yet for me. Setting aside the modest monetary earnings, what I love about my free lance jobs are the opportunities it give me. I am able to exercise my research skills, which I have not been doing in my current position. I am able to help colleagues, friends, strangers turned clients to friends finish their masteral studies and more importantly a completed job makes me feel so accomplished. It gives me self worth, which I seldom experience these days.

If I would blog about my free lance research jobs, you will surely get bored. ;-) You wouldn't want to see theories, numbers, tables, figures and all those academic things. I've been so eager to blog but I can't think of a topic to write. :-( To break my long silence, allow me to share a little something about myself.

In case you are not interested, then you are free to skip this post. :-(

Presenting, what's inside my bag..

First and foremost, the excessive things in my bag are explained by the fact that I am a regular commuter. I transfer to three different transportation on the way to work.(jeepney-train-jeepney) My average travel time from home to work is 1.5 hours, under normal conditions. This means no traffic and no technical problems in the mass rail transit.

1. Foldable Umbrella - A must for every commuter! My weapon against the sun and unexpected rain showers. It has to be always blue because it's my favorite color. ;-)

2.Beauty Kit - comprised of a comb with large teeth (for my long, tangled and unmanageable hair), hair clamp (to tame and hide the unruly hair), face powder (preferably Maybeline's Clear Smooth Extra), eye shadow (Human Nature's Mineral eye shadow), blush (preferably Maybeline's Cinnamon Rose), and dark brown eye brow pencil.

3. Alcohol - Another must for every commuter! I prefer those brands with moisturizer to prevent having dry skin.

4. Book - To drive away boredom and to keep me awake every morning on the way to work.

5. Wallet - of course! Small wallet for my coins and big wallet for the cards etc. etc.

6. Techie stuff - My almost defunct Nokia E63 and my iPod Nano. My iPod Nano keeps me away from boredom on the way home. I usually go home so late so reading books is no longer possible. In that case, my iPod Nano is there to save the day.

7. Rosary - To remind me of my devotion to the Blessed Mother. During times of distress and trials, this has been my constant companion and refuge.

As I am writing this post, I still have tons of paper to check. It's 6:08 pm and in a few more hours it will be Monday, a start of another work week. Things have not been good at the work place over the past days but as always, life should go on. This too shall pass.

I hope everyone had a great weekend.

Happy Birthday Anna

2011-09-18T19:28:00.008+08:00

As I am writing this post, my legs are exhausted and my body is calling me to finally zzzzzzzzzz. Saturday was filled with accomplishment and happiness. I woke up at 5 am to start my regular fitness activity. No matter what it takes, I promised my screaming bulging belly to shed off those extra lbs. It's time to pay for all those meal and Coke upsizes.

I jogged for more than an hour in this place

Though I was near SM Marikina, no shopping attempt was made. ;-) I jogged and enjoyed the outdoor atmosphere with some greenery left in the city.

After a perspiring walk, I went home to prepare for a meet up with my girlfriends.

Anne, Anna and May Ann

They are my super girlfriends. I've known Anne ever since I was 14 years old. We had common friends in High School and we went in the same university for college. I've known Anna and May Ann for 18 years. We were classmates in grade four and our senior year in High School. Notice the rhyme in our names? Anne, Anna, May Ann and Diane... God perhaps knew that we will eventually become friends in the future so He made our parents chose our rhyming names.

The main reason of our meet up is because someone's celebrating her birthday! Can anyone guess who among us is celebrating her special day? The girl in blooming pink turned YOUNGER! ;-) Happy Birthday Anna!

Anna wanted to see Binondo on her birthday so the loyal friend in me said, your wish is my command beautiful! I gave my friends a mini tour in Manila. Our first stop was the historic Intramuros in Manila. Anna wanted to start the day with a prayer so I brought her to the Manila Cathedral.

I would like to believe I fulfilled Anna's wish of eating at Binondo.

The Binondo Arc

Binondo is the Philippines' main China town. Binondo is believed to be the oldest China town in the world. It was established in 1594, when the Philippine was still a colony of Spain. The Spanish government allowed Chinese businessmen who have inhabited our country to stay in this place. Soon, the accumulation of Chinese entrepreneurs have developed the place to be a center of trade, commerce and the best Chinese foods in the Philippines.

Anna was dying to eat in this restaurant

Sincerity Restaurant

Inside the restaurant

And what we had after a long walk

The best and unhealthiest thirst killer

Sincerity Chicken

Kiampong Rice

Burp!

So after eating all these calories, we need to burn them so off for the ultimate walkaton

And before Anne and I parted, we indulged ourselves with this

Thank you Anna. But I think I need to devote more time for jogging tomorrow. Wishing everyone a great weekend.