Christmas Lunch @ Bale Dutung

I had the best lunch of my life in Bale Dutung last Sunday...

When Jen told me that we are holding our Annual Christmas Get together in Bale Dutung, I knew it will be gastronomically exciting. Heard so much about the famous "5-ways to eat Lechon" feast and experiencing it would be totally awesome.

We got there in time for lunch. They served us a Citrusy drink with Muscovado ice.. it was so refreshing! Mary Ann gave a brief introduction of the place and set our expectations before we started the feast. First, they served the trio dip of Pure Crab fat (taba ng Talangka), Pili Pesto and Burong Hipon with Crackers..it was so tasty and yummy..

After that, they served us the Fresh fern Salad with Tomato and Onion topped with Quail Egg drizzled with Balsamic Vinegar, Fried Lumpiang Ubod, Burong Hipon Roll and Crab fat Sushi and the their Version of Chicken Inasal

Guess what?? That is only the start of our sumptuous meal... I asked Mary Ann why they prepared a lot of food prior to the Lechon feast, she said the appetizers were meant to line our stomach for the greasiness of the Lechon.. She then asked us if we are ready to start the real meal.. we said yes, of course! :P

This is how to eat Lechon 5 ways:

1) Enjoy the Crispy Lechon Skin with the Special Liver Sauce (Made from scratch)

Chef Claude perfectly cutting the Lechon skin

2) Pritchon style wrapped in Tortilla - Lechon meat was shredded like adobo flakes and deep fried.

3) Sinigang na Lechon - who would have thought that Lechon can be used for the famous sinigang?? well, Claude Tayag did!!

4) Inihaw na Lechon ribs with Ensaladang Talong and Pulang Itlog (with a twist)

5) and last but not the least, Inasadong Lechon...for the last course, we cant barely eat this anymore since we're soooo full but it was still good!!

They also served us Kapeng Barako, Maja Blanca made of Goat's milk and the their Filipino Version of Creme Brulee topped with Yema, Ube and Macapuno Balls for dessert.

We ate this Lunch set from 12noon until almost 7pm.. but it was all worth it!! The food was superb, the place was beautiful and full of artsy stuff and the hospitality and warmth of the owners are impeccable.. I would really love to go back and bring my other friends. It was one hell of a lunch!!

My Brother's Wedding

It was the first wedding in our family that's why when my brother, Shallom told me to help him plan his wedding, I didn't think twice. I got the best suppliers (most of them I worked with before) and thankfully they gave us pretty reasonable rates. It was hard especially that Shallom wasn't here physically to help Devie in planning the wedding and meeting up with their suppliers but all the hard work and sacrifices paid off... it was worth it!

I can say that seeing my brother get married is surreal. I cannot even imagine this would happen because I thought we will just be together forever especially that we practically grew up together. I am proud of what he has become..from a thin, smart but shy boy to a strong-willed, aggresive and a true gentleman. I just hope you stay that way, to keep your feet on the ground at all times and to never stop thanking the Lord for all the blessings he has showered you.. Congrats again, bro... i love you!!

Shallom and Devie's Onsite Video from Shierdan Pamintuan on Vimeo.

Paano ba mamuhay ng "NORMAL"?

Di ako makapaniwala.. Bukas simula na ng "NORMAL" kong buhay. Hindi naman sa sinasabi kong di ako normal pero ngayon ko lang mararanasan ang magtrabaho sa oras na normal. Ilang taon na akong nasa "night shift",kahit na sabihing weekends off naman ako, alam kong iba pa rin kung nagtatrabaho ako sa normal na oras gaya ng iba at makatulog sa gabi... Nakasanayan ko na rin kasi ang ganoong body clock, kaya alam kong malaking pagsubok sa kin ang gumising ng alas-5 ng madaling araw. Ayoko na lang isipin ang traffic na pwede kong kaharapin tuwing umaga at pag-uwi..

pero ok lang.. masaya ako dahil sa wakas, buhay na naman ako..

...wish ko lang pati love life ko mabuhay din!!! :)

Text of the day

A good friend sent me a text message:

Don't be bitter and full of hatred when the one you love decided to leave you. Ask, listen and LET GO. Don't force yourself to understand when you can't, to fight hard when obviously it's over and to play deaf to the nagging truth that what you had doesn't work anymore. Instead, say "I had loved more than you think I would but I feel sorry that you've lost your chance to be loved more than you would ever feel in your life after this.."

Winner noh???

I'm no material girl anymore!

I admit that when I was younger, I thought having those expensive things would make me happy but it's not all that. I was used to having almost everything I want when my Father was still working. I would always be up to date with the latest shoes, bags, clothes,make-up, watches , gadgets etc. when I was in my St. Scho days until my College days in UST and spend my weekends on gimmicks and shopping.

I thought that kind of life would never end, until my Dad got sick and underwent a major surgery. My dad had to stay in the hospital for almost 3 months and more than 2 years to recover. It was painful to see our family go through this kind of ordeal especially that we have been pampered all our lives. But I guess, God has his ways of teaching us. We (me and my siblings) have learned to value the life and the blessings God has been giving us all these years. We've learned that money is something we need but it shouldn't run our lives and that it shouldn't slave us.

We've lost a lot from that experience, our house, our car/ van, appliances, gadgets.. all the material things we thought was important..that time we thought maybe God doesn't love us.. I kept on asking what have we done to deserve that.. after almost 5 years, I perfectly understand why he had to go through such dilemna. God was actually showing us that its not all the material things that would make us happy but what's important are the lessons we've learned along that journey that makes us what we are now.. Strong, Responsible and Worry-free!

The Secret

A friend of mine shared this in Facebook.. I can't help myself reposting it, I love the message of positivity and being grateful for each day that we are alive. I hope I can find time to read the book..(that would be next on my to-do list!) ...




Today is the beginning of my new life
I am starting over today
All good things are coming to me today
I am grateful to be alive

I see beauty all around me
I live with passion and purpose
I take time to laugh and play everyday
I am awake, energized and alive

I focus on all the good things in life
And give thanks for them
I am at peace and one with everything
I feel the love, the joy, the abundance

I am free to be myself
I am magnificence in human form
I am the perfection of life
I am grateful to be.. ME

Today is the best day of my life.

Prayer really works!

I thought there will be another typhoon hitting Manila. I was so scared to be stranded again so I went home immediately from work. Thank God Typhoon Pepeng changed its course or else, what will happen to us? Its barely a week after the destructive Typhoon Ondoy hit us, people who were affected haven't recovered from the said tragedy and another disaster was about to come. I guess prayers really do wonders.. and I'm glad God listened.

"For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." Mt 18:20, NIV

My Ondoy experience

***As I am writing this, I am in a multi-purpose hall in Green Park Pasig along with the other victims affected by the typhoon Ondoy.***

I never thought I would be able to experience being stranded with strangers, who despite of the tragedy that happened still manage to put a smile on their faces and help other people.

First day of the typhoon, September 27, after my work (past 10am), raging rains and winds greeted me so I decided to call home and ask Nanay if everything at home is ok. Thank God our house in Antipolo and my family are safe. Nanay told me to just stay put in the office coz it would be impossible for me to pass Marcos Highway since Kingsville is already waist deep flooded then. Commonwealth traffic is not moving at all, saw some officemates who went down from their car just to buy some food in Mini Stop so they wont get hungry while waiting for the traffic to move. Heard that Philcoa and Katipunan were flooded too. So, I just decided to stay in the office and spent the night there. Good thing, our office provided new blankets and free food to those who were stranded because of the typhoon.

The next day, September 28, heard in the news that Katipunan is finally clear so I called up at home to ask if it's safe for me to go home. Tatay told me, I can go home since the flood has subsided , so I hurriedly went home ... (Yes! Katipunan was clear, I was there within 10 mins. from my office) When I reached Marcos Highway, traffic began to slow down but tolerable, until I reached the LRT- Santolan Station. It was like a movie scene, where people are disoriented, don't know where to go.. Cars and trucks here and there, MMDA barricades destroyed, trash everywhere and the streets were full of mud. Asked a passerby if its possible for me to go home and drive straight to Masinag but he told me that the water and mud in Kingsville area is still waise deep. I knew it would be impossible for me to be home, so I was hoping and praying that I can drive without any hassle until Sta. Lucia or Robinson's Metro East.. and it took me 2 hours to reach the Sta. Lucia Mall. I was able to get a safe parking spot in front of the grocery entrance. Sta. Lucia looks like an evacuation center, a lot of people were there by the entrance and the stairs. I pity those who have kids and babies with them... sobrang kakaawa talaga! I was asking the guard if they could open the grocery since a lot of people are hungry but management has not given them orders yet. Grabe! Imagine, kalamidad na ang tigas pa rin nila and they don't want to help.. I heard SM Marikina opened their mall to those who were stranded with matching food, great to hear that bigger malls were more willing to extend help kaya doble din ang balik sa kanila.. Looked for water in the nearby stores but water is scarce.I reached until Burger King then went to Robinson's Metro East to drop by Mini-stop, but Water is also out of stock, got 3 bottles of Coke and 3 cans of Chill Soda (takot mauhaw!!) I went back to Sta Lucia and sat near the entrance door so I could rest my back.

As I was looking around, saw a certain young family. Dad just came back from Mercury drug to buy some food for his family.When he saw me, he asked me if I'm ok, I said I'm fine. He (Jong)is his name)asked if I'm with my family, I told him they are safe at home in Antipolo. He got confused why I was stuck there, I told him what happened and he said I'm lucky I still have a house to go home to. I asked him what happened. He told me, they have a house in Midtown (subdivision at the back of Burger King) and the flood reached their house almost until the 2nd floor. His car was submerged in the water, along with their furniture. The only thing they were able to save are there dogs and the appliances and clothes on the second floor of their home. I felt sorry for them, Jong introduced me to his wife, Chey and daughter, Cheska (a grade 4 Scholastican) and his college friend, Stef (whom he haven't seen in years) and they invited me to be with them. After 2 hours, they got a call from his dad who is stranded in Green park so he asked Chey so he could help his dad and his sisters. I can see from her that she don't want him to leave but she understood why her husband has to go and help his family. Kahit labag sa loob niya, pumayag na lang siya and asked him to go back immediately. I was moved by what I saw. So i just tried my best to talk to her and Cheska so they can divert their attention and not think of him. I told her he will be fine. Hours passed, its getting dark and Sta. Lucia didn't even bother to open their lights. I looked for some unused boxes from the grocery trash (yes, from the trash!pero trash bag yun full of boxes naman) so we could have something to lie on.. after an hour, Jong came back and told us that they will be staying at his friend's house in GreenPark. He invited me to go with them, and said that there is a Multipurpose hall near his friend's house. Stef said I should go with them so I could sleep in a safer place. I was thinking "sige , pakapalan na lang.." so I said if its ok and asked Jong if the car is safe to leave there, he said "isipin mo muna sarili mo.." and smiled.. so I joined them and we walked to Green Park.. Geez.. I didn't expect I'll walk in flood.. lagpas tuhod ha??But no choice eh.. so we reached the Multi-purpose hall with my jeans soaking wet from the flood (yuck!), Jong left me and Stef and told me he will bring us food. I was too tired, i just lied on the plywood and closed my eyes hoping that I am just dreaming. My cellphone has died down, Stef has no signal with only 1 bar (Damn, Globe!)and I'm worried coz I know my family is worried about me since I haven't talked to them since 8am Sunday morning. I slept without eating coz I don't feel like eating..I slept with my jeans soaking wet,but I don't care.. all I want is to go home and be with my family.

Woke up around 6am today. I was elated seeing the sun up.. I was praying that hopefully the flood in Green Park had subsided. Asked Manong who also slept in the hall, if the flood is gone.. he said its all clear. He gave me a cup of coffee, I gave them our food which Jong gave me and Stef. We waited til 8am before we went to Jong so we could thank him for his hospitality and concern. He asked if we will be alright, I said " we'll be fine!" and then Stef and I headed back to Sta Lucia to get our cars so we could go home. We asked people if Junction (Stef lives in Greenland, Cainta) and Kingsville are passable. A passerby said Kingsville is ok but Junction is still flooded. Told Stef to go home with me, so she could wash up, eat lunch and charge her cellphone, so I could return the favor of what her friend did to me. She said "ok!" so we convoyed going to our house and reached home around 11 am.

Nanay was so happy to see me, as well as Tatay.. they asked me what happened and they told me its good that I'm back home. I thank God I was safe in those 2 days and I am thankful to those who helped me. I will be forever grateful to Jong and his family, Stef and Jong's friends who unselfishly lent out their hands to help despite what happened to them. It is in these times, I feel God is present because there are still good people willing to help others. This is my worst weekend ever but it was really a humbling experience.

I feel so blessed and now the more I appreciate all the things even the smallest ones. God is good!!

Damn you, Ondoy!

I'm here stuck in the office here in Commonwealth, all the roads going to my house in Antipolo are impassable...I can't believe I am still wearing the same shirt, pants, underwear for more than 24 hours already. I feel horrible!.. and I guess I'll be staying here for the rest of the night..whoa! what a way to spend my first weekend off!!

I've never seen Manila as flooded as this. My old neighborhood is already flooded,6 feet deep, Marikina - Chest deep, Katipunan - waist deep, Philcoa-kneedeep...how can that be?and its only Signal #1.

Here's a glimpse of how Katipunan looks like:



Thank God my Family is safe in Antipolo...I hope your families are safe too..

My Father, My Redeemer

I never thought I would cry a river while watching this video. I was touched by this Father and Son story because I wish I have a closer relationship with my Dad... I'm still hoping he opens up, I am still praying my Father will show us how he really feel for us... I am wishing He will tell us how proud he is of us as to what we have become... We love him and I hope he knows and feels that... I know that one day will come..and I hope that one day will be NOW!!

Happy Birthday, Leanne!!

Today is Leanne's Birthday. Too bad she wasn't able to celebrate her special day in Manila w ith her family and with us..

Lehy has been my friend for more than 20 years already and I can't imagine my life without her. I hope you are enjoying your birthday, friend! I wish we can celebrate it with you.. and of course all I wish is everything but the best for you. I love you, Birthday Girl!! Blow your candles....

We got a new Dog!!! Meet Zach...

This is Zach....

... the newest addition to our family. Isn't he adorable?? reminds me of Lionheart (of Carebears).

Got him last Monday at Tiendesitas. Chysler, Spicah and I went there not to buy but just to scout for a dog as a gift for Tatay. He has been prodding us to get a new dog since he has been dreaming of the Chow chow he saw in Sta. Lucia a week ago. Chysler decided to forego on buying an Ipod Touch and said he will just buy a dog instead.. and that decision made everyone in the family happy.

When we saw him in one of the stores, we instantly fell in love with him... Who wouldn't?? we just have to take him home!! Seeing my parents happy again after Gifter's death is priceless. I know Gifter can't be replaced in our hearts ever, but having Zach makes everything new again. :)

35 things I did to heal my broken heart

I know it’s quite difficult to be in this situation. Until now, I still can’t believe that I was able to overcome the loneliness and hurt I felt after I was left hanging by the person I envisioned my future with. I still believe everything has a reason and God allowed such things to happen for us to realize our worth, that there is more to life than whining and looking back at the past and there are greater things bound to happen after the Big Storm.

I know there is no easy way to heal a broken heart, but these helped me get through the darker days and I hope it helps you too in healing, letting go and moving on.

1. Cry ‘til you can’t cry no more. – I cried my heart out. I cried every single day after the break up until I fall asleep..and it felt so good to release your hurt and pain through your tears.. It will pass.. titigil ka din kasi wala ka ng iluluha pa!

2. Read the Bible – only God can understand the hurt, talk to Him! You will find comfort in reading the Bible because somehow you will find the answers to your heart’s questions.

3. Call your Best Friend – in my case, the first thing I did was to text my Best Friend, she called me up because she knew right away that there was something wrong.

4. Email what happened to your other BFFs abroad – it was nice to share what happened to the people you know who cares for you the most. You will feel a whole lot better reading their reactions. Glad that I have great friends!!

5. Eat your heart out – My BFF asked me if they could join their family lunch out the day after the breakup and I obliged. It was a heartwarming treat from her mom.. I went home stuffed!

6. Drink like there’s no tomorrow – When my boss learned about the breakup, he told immediately asked me if I want to go out.. I said yes (of course!) He invited the whole team for a drinking spree (and videoke) to celebrate my singlehood. We went home drunk and happy!

7. Go to the Gym – stress buster.. especially if you have a cute trainer helping you out..hahah!

8. Watch your favorite Romantic Movies – I never got tired of watching “The Notebook”, “One more Chance” “If only” etc. I am a sucker for Romantic Films and watching them over and over again makes you want to cry even more but still hopeful that Love still exists.

9. Put all the pictures of your ex, cards and everything that will remind you of him in a box - I kept mine in a safe place where I won’t be able to reach or open it easily.. I never threw anything from my ex’s.. They have been special and I want to keep it that way. No regrets. :)

10. Delete your ex’s mobile number, messages, pictures and anniversaries in your cellphone – good thing I’m not good in numbers, so it was easy for me not to text him or call him coz when I deleted all his numbers I know it would be impossible for me to remember all of them.

11. Clean your closet- I found a lot of old clothes I haven’t been using in years, a lot of keepsakes which are not usable anymore (movie tickets, plastic, boxes, empty perfume bottles- GARBAGE!) so I threw them all away.

12. Cook your favorite dishes and let your love ones enjoy it. – Cooking is my therapy. I love cooking for the people I love and I love it even more when they liked what I cooked for them.

13. Go to a Salon - have your mani/pedi, foot spa and hair fixed. You should still stay beautiful even you’re not feeling well.

14. Get a weekday off and work on weekends- I was used to having weekends off at work but to prevent me on wallowing and reminiscing our weekend dates I chose not to bid out and get a weekday off instead. It works..

15. Write an everyday journal – you can write anything.. your feelings, angst, pain.. whatever.. it will amaze you as to how you’ve progressed each day.. and you will realize how strong you have become.

16. Get a Massage or SPA – this will make you feel really good. (kahit sa bulag pinatulan ko!!)

17. Go Shopping or Window Shop - Treat yourself with that pair of shoes you’ve been dying to have or get the bag you’ve been eyeing for.. It doesn’t hurt to splurge on yourself once in awhile. You deserve it!

18. Play with your pet often - Gifter, our dog, helped me a lot in making things easier for me on days I can’t even put a smile on my face.. Unfortunately, he got into an accident and died which made my healing process a little longer. We are seriously thinking of getting a new dog but we know that Gifter will never be replaced in our hearts.

19. Facebook all the way- Who doesn’t enjoy facebook? There are lot of things you can do on facebook (chat with friends, update yourself with the latest chismis, finding out who will react on your status) and it’s fun. And if you are a gamer, there’s a lot of games to choose from to get addicted to.. I just don’t like the flooding of my friends’ game status though.

20. Read self-help book/ blogs – A lot of friends gave me self help books and it really helped. It gives you a brighter perspective from a different point of view and you will find out that a lot of people have experienced or are experiencing what you are going through… you are not alone!

21. Trying Photography – Friends have been trying to help me out improve my shots, borrowing their cameras whenever and tinkering on how to use them.. it’s therapy. And I know I have to buy my own soon.. konti nalang!

22. Get hooked on Sports - Me? Sports?? I never thought I would be addicted to Badminton. Now, I don’t think my week will be complete without me playing it!! I just love it and I’m loving my new racket!!!

23. Go to a beach or travel as often as you can – I love the beach and the sun… and everything about it! I don’t mind the long travel because once you are there it means only 2 things: Rest and Relaxation.

24. Go to a place where you have never been before –Learning how to go there all by yourself, exploring what the place can offer and creating new memories is such a wonderful experience.

25. Start a new blog – I deleted the old one and started a new one.. New Life.. New ME!

26. Enhance yourself – I had my eyes corrected last March at the American Eye Clinic. It was one of my biggest decision to push through with the operation and I’m glad I did it. Thank God for this once in a lifetime opportunity and thanks to Dra. Badj Bolinao too.. (she was heaven sent!)

27. Reunite with Old Friends - Thank God for Facebook! I have constant communication with my High School Batchmates, Officemates and past Acquaintances. Now, its easy to plan an instant reunion…

28. Meet up with your Single Friends as often as you can – I’m glad that I still get to hangout with my 2 single BFFs every now and then..

29. Listen to another breakup story – it made me feel better that I’m not the only one experiencing it. Help each other move on and let go.

30. Watch your favorite Band play or a Concert with your best buds – then dance till you drop.

31. Open up to your friend’s husbands or boyfriends - I am blessed to have friends whose husbands/boyfriends are also concerned about me. It was insightful to get a man’s point of view especially they know how men think.. and it gave me a lot of things to ponder on and some realizations of the previous relationship

32. Share your heartache with a total stranger - I met someone online who is also in the same situation and we exchanged stories of our heartaches.. it was easier to tell him because I know he won’t judge me.. misery loves company! we became friends but we haven’t seen each other yet.. I hope to meet him soon!

33. Surround yourself with kids – It’s good that I have friends who have cute children and intelligent pamangkins.. You will just be amazed as to how smart they are now..just the sight of them makes you go aaaah… They are so lovable and adorable.. can’t wait to have my own pamangkin too!!!

34. Attend ALL birthdays parties, company activities and reunions as much as you can

35. Enjoy your new found Singlehood – sometimes its fun to do things alone. Do things you don’t normally do alone.. like watching movie, eating in a restaurant..you might look silly but it’s the start of loving yourself again.


Breaking up is one of the most painful thing you have to experience in love. But you have to let go of the things that can no longer be fixed. If you force to try to put them back, things will only get worse..

“Holding on is being brave but sometimes moving on makes you even tougher”. Remember that God has better plans for each one of us, all we have to do is be obedient and wait for his perfect timing.

Separation Anxiety

My BFF Leanne will be leaving again for New York this Monday and I'm starting to have separation anxiety already. I can't believe her 2 month-long vacation is over and we haven't even had a single out of town road trip! (I hate my Days off!) .. I guess 2 months will never be enough for us... good thing we were able to spend quality time together, going back to Bora after 11 years, catching up on tagalog movies and having our usual coffee chitchats on my days off.

I'm proud of what she has become and knowing that she will already finish her PhD next year makes me even prouder. We'll surely miss you, Lehy!! Konti na lang.. =)

It's You

I'd like to share one of my favorite song sung by Dionne Warwick and Stevie Wonder.. I wonder when will I be able to sing this? :)

Stevie Wonder & Dionne Warwick live ~ it's you
Uploaded by Soul-Brother. - See the latest featured music videos.

IT'S YOU
I look inside my crystal ball of desire
And know why rapid beats my heart
I see the spark, I feel the flame of the fire
Letting me know love wants to start
No more playing around
No more waiting around for the special one to come
No more wearing a frown
No more tears coming down 'cause I know what I want
And I want what I know

Is you
Nobody has to tell me so
It's you, it's you, you're the angel sent from heaven above
It's you, nobody has to tell me so
It's you, you're that angel sent from heaven above for me
([Background]-Me for you and you for me)
If only I had not waited I would have picked the wrong one
If only I had not waited my life would be undone
If only I had not waited I woul have picked the wrong one
If only I had not waited for you [Harmonica Solo]

I look behind and what I sight is the mire
So very lonely was my heart
I look ahead I hear the sound of the choir
Singing that love will never part
No more hearing the sound of the rain coming down
No more I can't see the sun
No more hurting for fun 'cause the moment has come
When I know what I want
And I want what I know

Is you
Nobody has to tell me so
It's you, you're the angel sent from heaven above
It's you, nobody has to tell me so
It's you, you're that angel sent from heaven above for me
([Background]-Me for you and you for me)
If only I had not waited I would have picked the wrong one
If only I had not waited my life would be undone
If only I had not waited I would have picked the wrong one
If only I had not waited for you
'Cause Baby it's you.....

And I love you so..

Was able to catch up with my BFF's, Carla and Leanne, last night and watched "And I love you so".. I'm not a Bea Alonzo fan neither a Sam Milby follower, but when I saw the trailer I said to myself "I just got to watch it", Good thing my friends are kaladkarins and is up for anything.. Yes, the movie had some resemblance to the story of "P.S. I love You" and some parts of "Grey's Anatomy Season 5" but the sight of Sam and Derek's six-pack abs makes you wanna go Lady Gaga.. hahahh!! and oh, the beautiful Anawangin Cove was featured in the movie. It would have been better if it's still John Lloyd taking the lead role(yeah, biased ako eh!)coz he acts way better than Sam but I still love "One more Chance" and is still the best Tagalog Romantic film for me!

here's the full trailer of "and I love you so"..



Btw, I'm glad John Lloyd has an upcoming movie with Vilma Santos entitled "In my life"..he is playing a gay lover of Luis Manzano.. Too bad Leanne wont be here to watch this with me and Carla..I'm really excited to see this

My Travel Wishlist~ PART 2

As promised, Here is the Part 2 of My Travel Wish list..

6) Caramoan Island, Camarines Sur - I heard a lot of beautiful things about Caramoan Island when I got to spent a weekend in CWC (Camsur Watersports Complex). The Island is no surprise to be one of the Philippine's Secret Paradise and definitely should be in my wishlist too!

7) Samal Island, Davao- An officemate who hails in Davao told me that I shouldn't miss going to Samal Island. It is one of the famous beach spot in Davao and truly,as seeing all the pictures online, How can I not include this is my travel list..

8) Batanes - the scenic landscape and the simplicity of this small island says it all. The lighthouses, the mountain stretch, and the beach is something to look forward to. I just have to make sure it doesn't rain when I go there :)

9) Bantayan Island, Cebu - One word: PARADISE!!!

10) Bohol - I want to see the Chocolate Hills, have pictures with the Tarsiers, listen to the Loboc Choir and enjoy Panglao Island.. there is so much to do and see in Bohol..will 3days be enough?? I don't think so!

more to come... :) up next.. the 10 Places in the Philippines I want to go back again!

The One that got Away

Source: The Manila Times
By: Mark J. Macapagal

In your life, you'll make note of a lot of people. Ones with whom you shared something special, ones who will always mean something.

There's the one you first kissed, the one you first loved, the one you lost your virginity to, the one you put on a pedestal, the one you're with...and the one that got away. Who is the one that got away? I guess it's that person with who everything was great, everything was perfect, but the timing was just wrong. There was no fault in the person, there was no flaw in the chemistry, but the cards just didn't fall the right way, I suppose.

I believe in the fact that ending up with someone, finding a longtime partner that is, does not lie merely in the other person. I can actually argue that an equal part, or maybe even the greater part, has to do with the matter of timing. It has to do with you being ready to settle down and commit to someone in a way that goes beyond the little niceties of giddy romance.

How often have you gone through it without even realizing it? When you're not ready to commit in that mature manner, it doesn't matter who you're with, it just doesn't work. Small problems become big; inconsequentials become dealbreakers simply because you're not ready and it shows. It's not that you and the person you're with are no good; it's just that it's not yet right, and little things become the flashpoint of that fact.

Then one day you're ready. You really are. And when this happens you'll be ready to settle down with someone. He or she may not be the most perfect, they might not be the brightest star of romance to ever have burned in your life, but it'll work because you're ready. It'll work because it's the right time and you'll make it work. And it'll make sense, it really will.

So that day comes when you're finally making sense of things, and you find yourself to be a different person. Things are different, your approach is different, you finally understand who you are and what you want, and you've become ready because the time has truly arrived. And mind you, there's no telling when this day will come. Hopefully you're single but you could be in a long-term relationship, you could be married with three kids, it doesn't matter. All you know is that you've changed, and for some reason, the one that got away, is the first person you think about.

You'll think about them because you'll wonder, "What if they were here today?" You'll wonder, "What if we were together now, with me as I am and not as I was?" That's what the one that got away is. The biggest "What if?" you'll have in your life.

If you're married, you'll just have to accept the fact that the one that got away, got away. Believe me, no matter how fairy tale you think your marriage is, this can happen to the best of us. But hopefully you're mature enough to realize that you're already with the one you're with and this is just another test of your commitment, one which will just strengthen your marriage when you get past it. Sure, you'll think about him/her every so often, but it's alright. It's never nice to live with a "might have been," but it happens.

Maybe the one that got away is the one who's already married. In which case it's the same thing. You just have to accept and know that your memories of that person will probably bring a nice little smile to your lips in the future when you're old and gray and reminiscing.

But if neither of that is the case, then it's different. What do you do if it's not yet too late? Simple...find him, find her. Because the very existence of a "one that got away" means that you'll always wonder, what if you got that one?

Ask him out to coffee, ask her out to a movie, it doesn't matter if you've dropped in from out of nowhere. You'd be surprised, you just might be "the one that got away" as well for the person who is your "the one that got away."

You might drop in from out of nowhere and it won't make a difference. If the timing is finally right, it'll all just fall into place somehow and you know, I'm thinking, it would be a great feeling, in the end, to be able to say to someone, "Hey you, you're the one that almost got away."

My Travel Wishlist PART 1

I am proud to be a Filipino born in the Philippines. I love this country to bits, not because of the sudden uplift of emotions from Pres. Cory Aquino's passing but I love the beautiful places our country has to offer. It amazes me that it never ceases to surprise me (or us) with a new place yet to be discovered or a famous spot to make memories anew.

I am not a well-travelled person who boasts where she has been in the world, I am just a simple person enjoying my hard-earned money through simple vacations, squeezing my vacation leaves on long weekends, and finding the most reasonable packages so it could fit my tight budget.

I have visited and enjoyed a few of the most beautiful places in the Philippines but it would never be enough. We have more than 7,000 islands and I still have a long way to go.. Let me share with you some of the places I am planning (or wishing) and saving up to go to..

My Travel Wishlist (only in the Philippines):

1) Anawangin Cove, Zambales - I know the road trip is quite long.. around 6 hours since this is near Potipot Island which I just visited recently. Too bad the weather didn't cooperate and we don't have enough time to go to Anawangin anymore. They say going here is back to basics since the nearest hotel is in nearby San Antonio which is a boat ride or mountain hike away.. but who cares?

2) Vigan, Ilocus Sur - My very good friend, Leanne has been prodding me and Carl to schedule another vacation when she comes back again from NY next year. All of us have been wanting to go to Vigan to see the famous Calle Crisologo with all its historic glory and walked down on its cobbled street and of course try the authentic Vigan Longganisa and Empanada.

Calle Crisologo

3) Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte (Saud Beach and Bangui Windmills) - A lot has been said about Pagudpud and I myself wants to see why a lot of people raved about this place. I read a lot of good things about Saud being the "Boracay of the North" and as well as the beautiful and the breathtaking Bangui Windmills.

The Bangui Windmills

"The Boracay of the North"

4) Coron, Palawan - Palawan is famous for a lot of places: Coron, El Nido, Amanpulo, Turtle Island and the Tubbataha. I know going to those places can be a bit pricey but who knows? ButI'll start with Coron first and then the rest can follow. :)

5) Sagada (Sumaguing Cave and Hanging Coffins) - I know I'm not the hiker or camper type of traveller since I need a decent Bathroom, but I have to experience this. I know the Cave and the Hanging Coffins can be really freaky but I know the experience will be worth it.

Inside Sumaguing Cave

Hanging Coffins

... TO BE CONTINUED.. part 2 to follow!

*all images from google

Cynicism and Kris Aquino's Eulogy

It's been almost a week after Former President Cory Aquino's death, and all of a sudden most Filipinos relive their love and passion for our country again.... Really now???

I find it so cynical that whenever one important person dies, that's the only time we value or give importance to what he/she has done..is it really hard to show this when he/she is still alive? ...When they can still hear our praises and good words for them, when they can still share to us how they have become the person we look up to now and when they can still feel the love that we have for them before its too late?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anyhow, I've been glued on TV to watch her funeral rites and all I can say the best part of it was Kris' eulogy. Her eulogy was one of the most touching I've ever heard especially the part she was thanking her siblings.



I just hope there will be someone who can actually make a difference, someone who can inspire or motivate us even after the national fervor has died down.

Beautifully Imperfect

This is one of the most touching TV ad I've seen.

"In the end, its these small things that you remember... the little imperfections that make them perfect for you..."

An open letter to the RIGHT ONE

I am wondering at this very minute if you are thinking of me, if you like me, you are wondering what is taking us so long to find each other. Many times I thought I finally found you only to be disillusioned by the fact that my wait has not yet ended. I get up each morning hoping, reaming, longing to meet you.

I am thinking of how we will meet, would it be as romantic as the ones I have seen in movies? Or is it possible that I have known you all my life but we have yet to realize that we are meant for each other? Oh how I wish you were here right now because you are the only one who has the answers to all my questions.

Sometimes I ask myself if I have ever really known "love". I do not have the answer to that question either but I believe that, more often than not, we will never really know what love is until we find that right person.... and since I have not found you yet, then maybe I do not really know what love is! You just don't know how often I dream of finally knowing what it feels like to be in your arms. Even at this very moment I am imagining how you will simply sweep me off my feet! Perhaps your smile, or your eyes would draw me to you, or maybe even how you manage to make me laugh by your silly little ways! I don't really know for sure but I am praying that God will help me recognize you when the right time comes. I think of all the pain that I have gone through in the past and of how much I have cried since the day I began my search. I just wanted you to know that I find my strength in clinging onto my vision of the beautiful life ahead of me --- the life I shall spend with you. In my mind and in my heart I know that you are worth all that pain and sacrifice.

After all, the tears have become a part of my life and I believe that they are slowly washing away my flaws so that I would become perfect, not perfect in its truest sense, but perfect --- for YOU! I wonder if you've gone through so much pain as well. I wonder if you've been hurt so many times along the journey.

But my dearest one, please don't ever give up because I am right here... patiently waiting for you! I assure you that when we finally find each other I would slowly heal those wounds by my love.

At night, I would look out my window and stare at the beautiful sky, hoping that somehow you are also looking up and wondering about me. I utter a silent prayer and send all my cries to the heavens above thinking that in time they would reach you. And when I feel impatient, I just close my eyes and believe that you are on your way and that you are longing to see me as well. It is funny but when I finally fall asleep, it is still you that I think of, for you are always in my dreams.
It seems that, for now, that is the only place where I can hold on to you, long enough to tell you how much I love you. In my dreams you would kiss away my fears and wrap me with your arms of love. And this, all the more, makes me want to wake up and face the new day ahead with the hope that soon enough, you will no longer be a dream but a reality and once again I am assured that you are worth the wait. And when that time comes, everything will fall into its place, just as I had imagined, just as I had thought and dreamed, just as I had believed it would be! By then, I would simply look back and smile at all that I have gone through, in spite of the pain and amidst the simple joys of life --- and I would be very thankful because they all led me to you!

In the meantime, take care of yourself for me. Hold on to our dream and don't even think of letting go. Believe in your heart that we will find each other no matter what happens. God has planned the course and it is up to us to follow the directions. Don't worry: don't be afraid about getting lost, God saw to it that all the roads, no matter which one you choose to follow, lead to me.

*I got this years ago.. this is too nice not to share!

An Island called "Potipot"

A typhoon a day before, a 6 hour bus ride to Candelaria , a bumpy boat ride to the island.. it was worth it.. It was initially a team building activity at work but a lot of my teammates couldn't make it due to a lot of issues... so it was only me, Len and Gerald (who almost didn't make it too but thank God he did) who made it to Zambales right after our shift last Tuesday. Thank God the rain stopped and we were able to enjoy the Potipot sun and sand when we were there..We stayed at Dawal beach resort and took the 10 min. boat ride to the island. It was paradise. I mean, if you are looking for a quiet beach without too many people, where you can swim freely and take pictures, this is one of the best place to go to.

I had fun and I'm proud to say.. Finally, I've been there!!!

more Potipot pics

Will you still Love me even if I'm not Perfect???

"This is always the question we ask the person we love... but no matter how imperfect we are as long as that person accepts everything in us and as long as he is contented with you.. You will always be perfect for him because He loves you..this is such a nice read from http://www.itakeoffmymask.com/ "

Will you still love me even if I’m not perfect? Will you still love me even if I’m not the kind of person you wished I were? Will you still look into my eyes with warmth even if you saw my shadows? Will you still hold my hand even if you knew there will be times I’d let you down?For though I yearn to take care of you as I should, though I desire to love you with a love that never falters and fades, my knees tremble this very moment that you hold me in your arms.Shall I kiss you? Shall I hold your hand and bask in the light of your spirit knowing that I have my darkness, knowing there will be times that the light of my love will sometimes be overshadowed by the darkness that is in me?

Sometimes I’d be silent and I might bore you. I may not laugh at your jokes, and you may not understand the spell that’s enshrouding me. Sometimes I’d get troubled and I’d fail to put into words what the hell it is that troubles me. I wouldn’t be good company then, and I couldn’t make you smile.

Sometimes I’d get moody and I might not enjoy the things you’d like us to do together. Sometimes I’d lose my temper and I’d no longer act like the fine person who stands before you today. Sometimes I’d get jealous and I might say things I don’t really mean. Sometimes I’d talk too much that I might drive you away.

Sometimed I’d get touchy and I’d get easily hurt. And no matter how mature I try to be, at times I’d act in childish ways. I’d demand things I shouldn’t, I’d say thing I shouldn’t say. And no matter how much I desire to protect you and make you happy, sometimes I’d be the one who’d cause you the most pain.

If you will love me I cannot promise you that I will not hurt you. I cannot promise you that I will not make you cry and that I’ll never break your heart. But if you will love me, I will bare my whole self naked before you, and I will reveal to you my soul. If you will love me, you can be certain that it is I that you will love, not a mask that fools you and gives you only what your eyes desire to see. If you will love me, you can be certain that you will love the depths of me, all of me that is in me, and I in turn will love you with all of me, with all my soul, with all my mind, with all my spirit, with all my flaws and beauty, and with all my very heart.

Boracay after 11 years

Yes! It has been 11 years since I last visited this wonderful and amazing Island. I remember the first time I went there was after my College graduation and the trip was a gift from my beloved parents. The trip was made more memorable because I have my Best friends with me enjoying the sun, the white sand and the good food.

Fast forward after 11 years, I thought going back to Boracay was a brilliant idea and having Carla and Leanne around would be much fun (as expected!). We planned and booked early but I guess all good things don't come easy. Typhoon Feria came 3 days before our trip, a Zest Air plane missing the runway a day before and a cancelled flight on the day itself.. What a way to start our long awaited vacation?? Good thing the weather in Boracay was perfect the whole weekend..The Sun, the white Sand and the company of my Two Great Friends.. it was all worth it!!

At the airport...

my dismayed friends @ 4AM waiting for our 530am flight.. Day 2!

After the long wait... off to Kalibo Airport

Carla taking her nap (again!)

@the Kalibo Airport.. now they're smiling!

and finally.. our Vacation officially starts here....

The morning after...

my feet shot..Boracay Sunsets