Cease Smoking Successfully

Smoking is addictive. Cigarettes contain nicotine that is highly engaging that once your system gets used to it, it becomes tough to get your hands off the stick. Some people can even consume a pack a day. Imagine how large the amount of nicotine that is absorbed by their bodies. They may not experience the troubling and debilitating effects of smoking right now but they will surely regret not controlling themselves from puffing when their systems eventually give in and become weak in their later years.

Smoking is a really barbaric enemy to our health since it doesn't only affect one part of our body. As it usually targets the heart and the lungs, our other important systems will be endangered once the said two vital organs are damaged. Plus, it contributes to the development of hypertension and cancers.

Question is, how do you quit smoking? Of course, there are various ways on how to cease this vice as long as one is disciplined, dedicated, and motivated. Here they are.

Movie Review: One Day by Lone Scherfig

The movie, One Day, starring Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess was a really touching yet shocking film that tackles the fight for true love and true friendship. It shows how enduring real romance can be and how it can keep the people involved going in life despite the difficulties they face.

Anne is playing the role of Emma, a writer who fell in love with a college friend, Dexter ( portrayed by JimSturgess), a tv host who ended up doing working in a buddy's restaurant after his career slowed down. 

Their story started when the two slept together one night after their college graduation. Since then, they agreed to meet each other every 15th day of July to see their progress in their individual lives.

Sporting a Tribal Look

Clothes designed with ethnic patterns are now a trend in fashion. With people living in an urbanized setting, to be able to wear such dresses, shirts, or any wardrobe with Indian-inspired shapes and lines makes one feel calm and relaxed despite the busy lifestyle. The tribal prints etched on a clothing’s fabric also make the whole look chic and edgy.

This fad, however, isn’t only true to tops or pants. One can sport a plain shirt and just pair it with a feather necklace or bunch of indigenous bracelets. For my part, I have bags with tribal patterns. These bags can help you pull off a hippie ensemble even if you just have a simple get-up.

Seafood Cravings at Aling Mahsya

Hypertension. This is what you get from eating too much pork or beef. Constantly devouring such may shoot your cholesterol levels up without your knowing. As a result, you may find yourself complaining about an aching head or neck. For the health conscious, seafood is the best alternative for the fatty food. It is savory, meaty, and could be cooked in various delicious ways just like pork and beef.

So when having dinner or lunch dates with your family, why not try restaurants that offer scrumptious seafood delights. Your grandparents may not even have to worry about forgetting their anti-hypertensive drugs at home.

Our family tried Aling Mahsya, one of the seafood paluto restaurants located at the Seaside Boulevard of SM Mall of Asia. We just let the waiters order our seafood of choice for half a kilo each from the nearby wet market to avoid the hassle of haggling with the vendors. But if you want to purchase the lowest price possible, then you could personally have deals with the sellers. The resto would then take care of all the cooking in accordance to the menu that you have chosen.

The food was satisfying down to the very last bite. I couldn't stop myself from chewing, munching, and digesting. After all, I don't have to stress about my heart being clogged up by unwanted fats and all.

This buttered shrimp is so juicy!!!

I think I love baked tahong more than baked talaba.

Calamares is just perfect for pulutan.

Aling Mahsya's Halaan Soup is very soothing and relaxing in the throat.

Book Review: Hope for the Flowers by Trina Paulus

In today's competitive era, some people would try to purposely step on someone else's foot to be on top. They don't care if they have already crossed boundaries, degrading others' self-worth and dignity. They do not realize that crab mentality isn't the key to success but rather, it is through truly knowing one's self and reaching goals without hurting others are what it take to be the best that you can be.

This is what I've learned from the book , "Hope for the Flowers" by Trina Paulus. The book is so simple that even a gradeschooler can easily grasp it. Truth is, it really looks like a children's book but no, it is for people from all ages and walks of life.

The book, actually a tale, has characters composed of a male and a female worm. The two were curious to know what's hidden up in the clouds since many other worms outdo each other just to get there. The one that will excite you in the story was how the female worm found herself transform into a beautiful butterfly.

The story is an easy read, and a creative one at that, since each page is actually composed of a short narration and simple yet witty conversations of the characters. At times, you'll pause for a moment and ponder on a character's line that has a significant connection with real life.

It is a book that spells hope, peace, and love. I totally like the flavor of love incorporated in the story especially as shown between the male and female worm.

With this very relaxing book, one can really read this on bed before entering dreamland. You'll sleep with hope, peace, and love in your heart.

Movie Review: The Help by Tate Taylor

Racism. This is the main issue addressed by the film, The Help, as a whole. Directed by Tate Taylor, the movie tells a story about a fresh college graduate named Eugenia “Skeeter” Phelan (played by Emma Stone) who is about to jumpstart her career as a writer by moving back to her hometown, determined to publish her own book. She chronicles about how the black women working as maids in their place were inhumanely treated by their white American households.

The movie gained a lot of recognition in the Academy Awards including Best Supporting Actress for Octavia Spencer and a nomination for Best Picture.

The film is witty in its interpretation of how some black Americans hesitantly fight for their rights and how some of them courageously face the insults of the white citizens. The serious but entertaining plot flows well and is easy to comprehend. The stories of the black maids who are being discriminated are presented in a way that you will empathize and feel for them.

I admire how the camera unpretentiously captures the sophisticated yet dramatic environment of the movie. The costumes are nicely tailored such that it realistically reflect the film’s era.

Almost all the characters have made an impact on me since each of them offers something unique and interesting on the table. Undeniably, the actors are effective in their performances as they honestly bring to life the qualities and actuations of their roles.

The Help is a must-see film since it helps us recall how big the problem of racism was at the past. It makes us realize how we must treat each other with love and respect regardless of our color, gender, or status in the society.

Sari-sari Store Frenzy

Putting up a sari-sari store is a good business idea when you are living in a barangay or a village. Residents would sometimes run out of basic supplies such as oil, gas, sugar, and condiments like soy sauce and vinegar. Filipinos also love to spend siesta time on tiangges, buying softdrinks with matching chips or bread.

However, maintaining a sari-sari store is no different in managing a huge business. The owner must make sure that credits are minimized or better yet discouraged because customers may take for granted their responsibility to pay. If your store doesn’t have the luxury to have a flowy supply of products, it is safe not to allow credits.

Owners must also properly account their capital and profit in order for them to ascertain that their store is really earning an income.

One problem of sari-sari stores is that its supplies are sometimes consumed by the owners’ relatives especially when they have kids who just take whatever they want out of the store such as chips, softdrinks, and candies. With this predicament, owners must account what their relatives have consumed for free or better yet just provide them with separate snacks that don’t belong to the store.

Set rules to be strictly followed by relatives and consumers so that your store can profit well and grow into a big one. Every peso counts here so purchase products that are proven to be in demand to the buyers. One can also maximize products in groceries that are sold in sale or those with freebies which you can actually sell as well.

Movie Review: Boy Pick-up

Nonsense pick-up lines. Gangster look. Pouty lips. Combine all these with the confident and gutsy attitude and what you get is the famous character in tv today – Boy Pick-up. Adding to his popularity is his new film, Boy Pick-up the Movie, which tells a bit of his life background.

The film showcases the improved acting chops of Solenn Heussaff who plays the love interest of Boy Pick-up ( played by actor and singer Ogie Alcasid). Betong and Maey of Survivor Philippines Celebrity Doubles Edition are also given supporting roles to reveal their comic antics on the big screen. Diego and Boy back-up (played by Eri Neeman) are two of my favorites as to making me laugh on my seat. They can actually pull off funny scenes effortlessly especially the act where they share a lollipop with one another. Yucks! Haha… LiliaCuntapay, the staple extra in horror films, is also given an important character as the mother of Boy Pick-up. She has delivered her short role truthfully.

The movie is entertaining and can tickle you with some of the intended senseless scenes but I can’t deny the fact that other parts are corny. I hope the film has emphasized or has given exposure to the pick-up battle scenes more since these parts are the ones the audience are looking forward to watching. The plot isn’t really strong or attributed with an in-depth twist but such weak point is concealed by good acting. Dennis Trillo is absorbed in his role as the angsty and revengeful Bagwis, the film’s antagonist . Pepe Smith is a natural as he plays “Master”, the trainor of Boy Pick-up. Of course, Ogie Alcasid has proven how talented he is as he brings to life the main character.

I like the cinematography of the film since it is packed with symbolisms which will make you think for a while with what they stand for. These symbolisms such as the toy duck blowing bubbles are incorporated to add weight to the personality of Boy Pick-up. Maybe, some scenes are intended to be senseless and exaggerated to reflect how idiosyncrasy can sometimes mean genius.

If you want a feel-good funny and entertaining film that would relieve your stress on a weekend, Boy Pick-up the Movie is the right choice. Take your chips with you, sit on a comfy chair, and enjoy Pinoy humor you sure will have a connection with. I know you can’t get Boy Pick-up but with his attitude and oomphy delivery, you’ll absolutely root for him.

My Top OPM Artists

Here is a list of my favorite OPM artists. I chose them because of the uniqueness and originality of their voices and how they honestly express their personality through their songs.

Rico Blanco- Though his voice sounds "sosyal", his songs are "makabayan" and well-written. He seems to have a peculiar accent when he sings his songs . He combines rock and soul in his voice, making his style even more distinctive from others. (Songs: Bangon, Your Universe)

Kitchie Nadal- Her voice is mature, sexy, and rockish but definitely has a different husky punch that sets her apart from other opm artists. Her upbeat songs also make me go LSS.(Songs: Bulong, Huwag na Huwag MongSasabihin, Same Ground)

Sharon Cuneta- Her voice is cute, simple, yet is not pushy when pulling off high notes. She sings from the heart and with emotions. When she expresses tagalong songs, the “pinoy” feel is apparently there. (Songs:Kung Tayo Ay Magkakalayo, Ngayon at Kailanman, Bituin Walang Ningning)

Regine Velasquez- Her high notes could seemingly break a glass but I loved it when she sings songs with a average notes because this is where you appreciate her angelic voice that could unexpectedly pull off wide ranges. I love hearing her voice in pop songs because you can just sing to the beat with her. (Songs: On The Wings of Love, Dadalhin, You Are My Song)

Barbie Almalbis- no-fuss voice yet very playful. She may not be your typical singer who can wow you with a voice that reaches Mt. Everest yet you cannot help but fall in love with her humble yet truly wonderful voice. (Songs: Just A Smile, Dahilan, Tabing Ilog)

Ney Dmac- adept with a shaky voice yet with volume and foundation. Yes, it’s shaky but definitely not pitchy. He can reach high notes with a bang. His voice is just oozing with determination and artistry. (Songs: Biglaan,Sige, Ligaw, Kaya Mo)

Bugoy Drilon- His voice is so suited to the RnB genre without him trying too hard. He makes “kulots” that are not irritating and off-beat. When you turn on the radio, you’ll immediately distinguish if it’s Bugoy Drilon who is singing. (Songs: Paano Na Kaya, Nang Dahil Sa Pag-ibig, Muli)

Ariel Rivera- Classic. I definitely associate ballad to Ariel Rivera. I guess balladeers of today’s generation look up to him as an inspiration. He has a manly, soulful voice that is perfect for romantic songs. (Songs: Sana KahitMinsan, Simple Lang, Narito Ako)

Gary Valenciano- His voice is just mind-blowing. He is not just imbued with the almost flawless techniques in singing- but he sings with a heart. The emotions in his songs truly transcend to the listeners. And yes, with his awesome moves, he is definitely the epitome of a total performer. (Songs: Sana Maulit Muli, Take Me Out of the Dark, Hataw Na, Kailangan Kita)

Chito Miranda of Parokya ni Edgar- His voice may sound “paos” but it can hypnotically make you sing with his quirky songs. He just enjoys singing that the passion shows in his performances. His songs aren’t hard to memorize since its rhythm can easily be followed by the listeners. (Songs: Mr. Suave, Harana, Mang Jose,Chikinini, The Ordertaker)

Bamboo- His voice seems westernized but the “Pinoy” vibe isn’t absent in his songs. He attacks songs as flexible as a bamboo. He just rocks! Enough said. (Songs: Halleluja, Tatsulok, Muli, Probinsyana)

Kyla- soulful yet really astonishing when she reaches the high notes. She keeps the RnB style whenever she belts out. She makes the most out of the rawness of her voice that she surprisingly turns her ordinary tones into extra-ordinary. (Songs: Beautiful Days, I Feel for You, Bring It On)

Christian Bautista- His voice is suited for operas yet just right for heart-warming ballads and musicals. His rhythms seem to flow like a peaceful river that you can’t help to just relax in his calming vocal sound. (Songs: The Way You Look at Me, Please Be Careful With My Heart)

Toni Gonzaga- You will definitely recognize it is Toni singing because of her full voice. Despite this, she manages to brave higher notes. She makes “kulots” sometimes to package her songs that she can call her own. (Songs: You Complete Me, Crazy For You, Catch Me I’m Falling)

Janno Gibbs- He is really my idol because he knows how to play with his voice without compromising the pitches. He can sing ballad soulfully but at the same time, pull of an RnB piece effectively. He can lower his voice in a very flexible manner but move to a falsetto in a very artistic way. His personality is just oozing out in his songs. Yeah, I’m a fan! (Songs: Fallin, Heart of Mine, Sana Dalawa Ang Puso Ko, Ipagpatawad Mo)

Away From Christmas

Christmas away from family is sad yet it is also the moment you realize how much you love and cherish them. It's the distance apart from them that makes you want to embrace them tightly and give them sweet kisses on the cheeks. It dawns on you how much you miss them and that there is indeed no place like home.

People tend to travel and find places they've never been to. It's because maybe, they wanted a different environment and experience new culture away from the comforts of their homes. They are also curious if they can see growth in them from other unfamiliar geographic locations. They are interested to learn new perspectives in life and see if they can get something significant from them. This may be hard since they decide to leave home where they grew up in. No mother will prepare his breakfast. No maid will wash her clothes. No one will clean his dishes and so on and so forth. They want to have a taste of independence in a different setting where they can sense fresh and new things.

Now that it's Christmas time, the longing of wanting to be with family heightens. Tears may fall from your eyes, reminiscing how happy and joyful it was to be with your loved ones. However, we can't deny the fact that someday, we may not see home amidst the jingles and parties happening around. All we can do is open our communication with them during this special day of Christ's birth. Through calling or greeting them is just one way of making you feel that distance from them can be as close as it can be.

Book Review: The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Diaz

Junot Diaz’s novel, The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, contains the historical accounts of Dominican Republic’s political scene under Trujillo’s regime and how it affected the lives of the main characters in present time.  We, the readers, are exposed into the evolving personalities not only of Oscar himself but also of his family.       

We basically follow the roller coaster experiences of Oscar Wao, a nerdy boy turned teacher and aspiring writer, and how he transitioned from adolescence to adulthood while struggling to come to terms with his own inner conflicts such as connecting with girls despite his unattractive attributes. We see how he adjusted in a family environment composed of a rebellious older sister, strict sickly mother, and an overprotective aunt. As we leaf through the pages, an Oscar who has a brand new perspective in life is unleashed.  We notice how he turned out to be a hopeless romantic who would do anything for love’s sake even if it means his death.    

Then we explore this question: Was the fuku (thought to be a curse passed on from one generation to another) incurred by Oscar’s family true? The author intricately discussed our main protagonist’s roots from his grandfather, a well-respected doctor who was viciously treated and died pathetically, to his mother who grew under an abusive foster parents before she found refuge in her caring aunt.     

Diaz narrated the story in various point of views which made the book fun and exciting to discover. In one chapter, we read through the mind and heart of Oscar and in another, we hear about personal sentiments straight from the voice of his college dorm mate whom he became close with. Other pages were written in third person and the author would sometimes insert his own comments and reactions towards certain scenes which appeared to me as strange yet amusing. 

I admire how Junot Diaz incorporated historical events in the lives of his characters, making them more realistic and easy to empathize with. I loved how he kept the fire burning throughout the story’s progression that putting the book off would be impossible.      

I learned how corruption in the government can dangerously affect the fundamental unit of society, the family. And when a family is broken, how can its members efficiently serve its community? Nowadays, monkey business is still rampant. With the officials’ dishonesty, rights of people from all walks of life are being violated and trampled.        

It’s up to us to believe if “fuku” really did exist. Maybe shit happens because we allow the bad to conquer and subdue us, leading us amidst an unfortunate turn of events. Or maybe because it is caused by selfish and contemptuous individuals who want others’ lives to become miserable. Nevertheless, It’s up to us on how we should carve our own destiny. The important thing is, we don’t easily give up when problems hit us.

Book Review: The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga

The book of Aravind Adiga entitled, The White Tiger, is  packed with eye-opening information on the positive and negative issues India has been facing  both in the past and present . Through the narration of Balram Halwai, the main character in the novel, I am as if brought to India and experience in the pages its culture, society, and religion.

Balram tackles so many serious topics such as how pitiful the plight of a servant’s life is in  his country, the widespread corruption taking place in the government, and poverty that leads a family to risk even their health, relationships, and security. Despite this,  the author writes the  plot, scenes, and the conversations in a quirky and comical way that will tickle you but at the same time drive you to feel deeply with the characters in the story.

The author brings out the mood, actuations, and behavior of Balram sufficiently and effectively. The turn over of events will surprise and entertain you so the book is definitely not a bore to read. Very truthful and tangible.

The writer presents how Balram, once a poor man, became a rich and successful entrepreneur. The social reality in his place is unleashed as you go along the story.  Injustices from home to politics are discussed through the impelling voice of Balram. You’ll notice how desperate Balram’s family  in finding solutions on how to combat poverty . The degrading effects of corruption such as the increasing gap between the powerful and the powerless are talked about.

Nevertheless, the writer also mentions how some parts of India are becoming progressive due to the new buildings being constructed as well as the rise of some  booming industries.

It always comes to a point that no matter how educated our leaders are or how successful businesses are in a country, those living in slums and sidewalks will have a low chance of a better future if the government steals the money of the masses.  This truth isn’t only seen in India but in other countries as well.

     

Balram is an epitome of a person who is deprived of his rights, dreams, and dignity. Due to the overwhelming degrading circumstances he and his family had experienced under the  oppressive officials of their community, he was able to think of the unthinkable – of something dangerous and grueling. His master, Ashok, to whom he drove for is a person who couldn’t fully stand up for his own convictions despite his good intentions. The plot leads us to the two being brainwashed by the darkness that encompasses them. They have allowed external dilemma to change what is clean and honest within their hearts.

     

The White Tiger isn’t confusing. It tells the story without going around the bush. As the whole novel is some kind of a letter to a famous leader in China, Premier Jiabao, it’s as if it is directed to you, the reader, as you leaf its pages. Each character is also unique and can deliver on its own. Each represents a certain group or caste to fluidly elaborate social entities in India.

     

The book is just worth contemplating on. It opens your mind to how one should fight for his beliefs if he certainly and conscientiously knows the right from bad, if he knows that his values cannot harm the lives of his fellowmen but rather, contribute to the wellness of his community. And yes, some people may climb the ladder by kicking others down but success is sweeter when you know that on your way up, you haven’t stepped on someone else’s foot.

Thoughts on the film, I Do Bidoo Bidoo

I watched the movie,  I DO BIDOO BIDOO, and  found it cool, very pinoy, and entertaining. Though I thought the musical’s storyline was so simple, the scoring, choreography, and the cinematography were totally amusing and creative.       

The two actors, Sam Concepcion (playing Rock Polotan) and Tippy Dos Santos (playing Tracy Fuentebella), on whom the story revolved were perfect for their roles since acting and singing wise, they were fantastic. Add to this the roster of respected personalities like Gary Valenciano, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Ogie Alcasid, and the ever funny, Eugene Domingo who all did great jobs in helping the movie attain quality entertainment.       

  

All the characters in the film were attributed with special numbers showcasing their brilliant theatrical skills.      The seemingly Romeo and Juliet plot was given a new flavour through its incorporation of Filipino values and culture. It presented the common predicaments Filipino families face such as the unshakeable social expectations that were difficult to bend.         

The movie featured the iconic music of APO Hiking Society arranged in various unique renditions. I personally liked the most the “namamanhikan” scene wherein the dancing, singing, and hilarious acting were rolled into one.         

Produced by TV 5, I Do Bidoo Bidoo, is written and directed by Chris Martinez.

The Mouse Wins

Whenever I hear the cat purr fiercely, I know it is up to something. It may have seen its prey- the agile mouse who runs to and fro the corners of our house. The mouse may be busy searching for its food right in the kitchen's vicinity yet it is clueless that the end of its life is just a minute away.

However, hearing the hungry grunt of the cat, the mouse will nervously hide to protect itself. It will do anything to guard its precious life from the claws of the wide-eyed cat patiently waiting for the right timing of attack. But then, the cat will grow weary of capturing the mouse who has been out of the former's sight for a long time. And the mouse will thankfully sigh since it has once again survived a day from its vicious enemy.

This isn't your typical Tom and Jerry story. Here, the mouse knew that it has no power to subdue the cat so it stayed in a safe corner where the cat couldn't reach it. Yes, the mouse was scared but it didn't also become so aggressive, assured, and proud that it could beat the cat. Its technique instead was to let the cat go tired of waiting until the purring animal gave up.

A Simple Travel

I want to travel. However, I'm not that rich to transport myself to some faraway land unknown to me. Yes, I dream of going to a tropical island surrounded with lush trees and carefree birds flying around. Or in Brazil and take a picture of me with the popular statue at Rio de Janiero as background. Or in Indonesia and experience the relaxing and invigorating ambiance of one-of-a-kind spas in Bali.

But hey, reality check please. I'm just a simple guy in the Philippines who can't afford such above-mentioned luxuries. I just go to places where circumstances of daily life lead me. May it be in the busy streets of our town or in the nearest beach that costs me a 10-peso entrance fee.  I just bike all the way to our neighboring municipalities and see the new things they offer my senses. There may be no big difference. Kiosks, a plaza, a church, and a city hall. Yet you'll be refreshed on the peculiar way they speak our vernacular. People there have similar language as ours yet the tone on how they enunciate it differ much.

Yes, traveling must not that expensive. People should just live by their means. To have a fun-filled getaway, there is no need to spend much because we can find brand new knowledge from the localities where we live. As long as we treasure every simple ride or walk to a fresh environment we've never been to, it makes us feel that we don't need many stamps in our passports just to gain wisdom through traveling. Appreciating what  our places can offer makes us proud and contented on the lanes, corners, and streets that we trudge on. Along with the various, interesting people it contains and the truth we get from them, indeed, there's no need for a plane or ship to learn more about life.

Singing is a Good Therapy

I love singing. When I sing, I feel like I'm pouring out all the baggage inside me. Through the emotions hymned by the message of the song, It seems as though I feel lighter.

A song, indeed, is more than just a song. It can save you from a bad incident that happened in your life at a certain moment. It can make you smile amidst the dilemma you're in right now.

In a song, the lyrics, tone, and beat harmonize together, resulting in a musical piece that may represent  the kind of situation you're dealing with right now. You can relate to it. It's as if singing that particular song gives you the voice to express your innermost feelings.

When I feel lost, down, or absurd, I sing. It is a medicine that automatically heals the pains life may bring. It's up to you what genre of music you like to listen to and it doesn't matter whether you are out of tune or not. As long as it'll raise your endorphins (your happy hormones) up, then go. We all deserve to smile.

Going for Your Passions

We have lots of passions burning within us. As much as possible, we try to express them because for sharing them to others makes us feel alive or makes us feel we exist. However, many of us struggle to bring out the best in us. Maybe because of fear, rejection, and uncertainty. These negative facts of life hold us back, preventing us to reach the dreams we keep in our hearts. Other external hindrances such as lack of money, sickness, and absence of family support can be factors that will try to stop us from aiming towards our goals.

But for me,  I still believe in the fact that if you follow what your heart beats for and nurture that dream inside you, you'll be able to topple down all the stumbling blocks that will pass your way. Many successful people nowadays had fallen down a lot of times just to get to where they are today. They didn't give up. They didn't trash away their dream. They believed in themselves when no one else did. All the sacrifices were surely worth it. 

Go for your dreams. There are many ways, directions, or routes to get there. Trust that someday, you'll get there. No one said it would be easy but then again, it's up to us if we are courageous enough to achieve our visions.

Burned yet Shining

You know you're disoriented when you forget a lot of things such as leaving a cousin's umbrella in an internet station or worse, discovering that your cellphone was snatched from your backpack after passing a crowded  sidewalk. This happened to me. Talk about signs of aging.

Maybe I wasn't just alert or aware of my surroundings in a certain place at a certain time. This has been me. But I've learned this lesson a long long time ago and I've moved on, believing that I would not make the mistake of being absent-minded or forgetful again. But I was wrong. It haunts me every now and then.

Mistakes happen. Yes, we learn from them but eventually, they will pop out any moment we are breathing. But instead of regretting, or cursing this unfair world, we have to bravely face them. Mistakes, as they say, teach us to become stronger individuals. At first, they may burn us. But like an armor, it should pass through fire in order for it to become sharp and yes, for it to shine.

I know I'm not perfect. But here I am, trying to become the better me every single day. I cannot please everyone else but I'm struggling to figure out what I can offer this world to make it a better place. I realized I shouldn't be too hard on myself for I have the faith that God will help me accomplish my dreams and be the person He wants me to be.

The A"maze"ing Life

There will always be this feeling of emptiness, loneliness, and helplessness. When will this forlorn emotion die? Life will give us a lot of options, but our minds couldn’t decide on what choice to make. We would oftentimes get stuck in a world wrapped in confusion. Then, in that sudden moment, we begin to break down and cry our hearts out.

We have experienced such time when we have almost exhausted all our energies into something yet in the end, we are still bound to give them up. Yes, after that last-minute decision of letting go something we ultimately value or we hold close into our hearts, we start to regret. Maybe we chose the wrong path for ourselves. But instead of drowning in depression, we resolve to smile, remain happy, and believe that something good might come our way.

It is our faith that levers us up amidst the uncertainties that we face. It is our will to survive and the determination to reach our dreams that keep us going. It is our ability to love unconditionally that gives spark to our existence. We lift everything up to the One who created us.

In a world where there are many influences, it could be hard to reach that point of individual uniqueness. Some become puppets to the ones who aren’t pretty contented and happy with their own lives. They want others to carry a life as pathetic as theirs. Unfortunate but true. It’s up to those puppets to stand up to their own rights and eventually be the best that they can potentially be.

Indeed, life is such a crazy maze. We may not know what direction to trek into but pray, and hope, that in time, we would be able to find the right way and finish victorious in the end.

Step On

Real life sucks but you don't have any choice but to embrace all its quirks and inconveniences. Outside the four walls of school, a jungle of scary events await you. If you're not brave and determined enough to face them, then you may be doomed.

Societal expectations will push you to become who you want or wouldn't want yourself to be. You will be forced to excel and move beyond your limits even if this entails sacrificing your own enjoyment or forgetting yourself in order to put up to the wishes of others. Then, you ask yourself, "Why are all these troubles happening to me?" "I've done almost everything to reach my dreams yet unexpected circumstances have hindered me in achieving my real potentials".

When things seem down, you begin to doubt all your skills and abilities. You start to question if you're really a good decision maker or if you've figured out the correct plans in your life. Well, when the worse happens, you try to comfort yourself by saying, "That's life!" You realize that you couldn't just halt your life after being squashed, burned, or trampled by a major problem. Time clicks away and you should and must move on.

You have to continue growing. It is in not stopping that you will notice positive changes within you. You will start noticing improvements in the various aspects of your life.

When everything looks stagnant, get out of your bed and continue learning. Read more books. Review more movies. Cook new recipes. Write letters. Bond with friends and family. Apply for jobs. Learn new hobbies. Exercise. Save money. Share. Be good. Pray. Clean your house. With all these little steps, you know you're educating yourself to become a better individual.

In life, there may be many quandaries that could shut down your system if you allow them to. But if you are strong-willed, enthusiastic, and positive, no one can take that smile off your face. You may not understand the world you're living in now. Or perhaps, you may not understand yourself. In the end, it is about choosing what you value the most and in the process, believing that God is pleased with what you are doing.

Kay Sarap Mag-bike

       Masarap ang mag-bike. Yun bang kung saan-saan ka nakararating nang hindi mo na pinoproblema ang gasolina at pamasahe. Yun nga lang, mararamdaman mo yung pangangalay ng iyong tuhod o di kaya yung pawis na tumatagiktik sa iyong ulo at likuran. Pero, okay lang. Masarap din naman yung mga panibagong mga tanawin na tila naglalaro sa iyong mga mata.
       Yung lumang mountain bike na siyang ibinigay ng aking tito ay pina-ayos ko sa aking itay. Kesa naman hayaan ko na lang itong kitkitin ng kalawang sa bodega. Binilhan ito ng bagong upuan at mga kambyada. Nilagyan din ito ng ilaw upang hindi ka masagasaan 'pag gabi. Pininturahan pa ito upang maging "brand new" yung kalalabasan at para naman halatang hindi mo pinababayaan yung bike mo.
       Maraming naidudulot na maganda ang pag- bike. Mainam itong ehersisyo sapagkat napapanatili nito ang maayos na timbang at pinalalakas nito ang puso mo. Masarap ang mag-bike tuwing umaga sapagkat ang sikat ng araw ay hindi ganoon kalakas at malamig pa ang simoy ng hangin na tila lumilipad ang feeling mo.
       Kung maaari sana, gumamit na lang ng bike yung mga tao kung malapit lang naman ang kanilang pupuntahan. Sa paraang ito kasi, nakakatulong sila sa pagbawas ng polusyon na dumudumi sa ating kahanginan na siya namang nagdudulot ng kung anu-anong mga sakit. Hindi ba't marami talagang biyaya ang dala ng pagba-bike?
       Kung merong isport siguro na gusto kong salihan, yun ay biking. Kaya lang medyo nangangailangan ito ng matinding training. Pero siguro, makakarating din tayo sa puntong iyan. Lahat naman ng bagay natutunan basta't gusto mo at mahal mo ang iyong ginagawa. Nakakaaliw ngang tingnan yung mga bikers na mabilis na dumadaan sa aming lugar. Nakasuot pa nga sila ng kumpletong "gear" para maiiwasan nila ang mga aksidente. Nakakainggit.
       Kailangan, lahat tayo ay may kinakaabalahang isport o di kaya'y gawain na makapagbibigay sa ating katawan ng sapat na ehersisyo. I believe that health is wealth. O di ba, bagong-bago? Hahaha. Pero totoo, mahirap magkasakit dahil mahal ang ospital. At maiiwasan natin ito kung aktibo nating napapanatili ang malakas na pangangatawan.
       O, magba-bike na ako. Sama ka?

Amidst The Cornfield

Wines Galore!!!

Kainis na Lamok!

          Kainis talaga yung mga lamok. Walang pinipili kapag kumagat. Habang nagta-type ako ngayon, walang tigil naman ang pagdapo ng mga walang awang mga lamok sa aking mga paa. Alam mo na kung kinagat ka kapag dama mo na ang pangangati sa lugar kung saan ka nila tinusok.
          Ano ba ang gustong-gusto nila sa akin? Hindi naman ako dugong bughaw. Siguro gusto nila yung dugo ko dahil matamis ito. May lahi kaming diabetic kaya siguro animo juice yung pakiramdam nila sa nananalaytay sa aking mga kaugatan.
          Kung alam lang ng lamok ang dulot niyang kapahamakan. May narinig akong isang batang dinapuan ng dengue sa aming barangay. Sabi nila, baka nakuha niya ito sa kanilang paaralan. Siguro marami roong mga bagay bagay na sinisidlan ng tubig tuwing umuulan at nagiging tirahan na ito ng mga lamok na dala ay ang  nakamamatay na dengue.
          Narinig ko, hindi lang pala tuwing hapon sumasalanta ang mga lamok na ito. Kahit gabi raw ay naghahasik sila ng lagim. Kainis! Naaawa tuloy ako sa mga kabataang namamatay na walang kalaban-laban dahil lang sa dengue. Marami ng mga pangarap ang tinapos ng karamdaman na ito.
          Kaya naman kailangan na talaga ng bawat barangay ang mag-plano kung paano sugpuin ang nakakapinsalang sakit. Linisin ang kapaligiran lalung-lalo na ang mga nananatiling tubig sa mga gulong, plorera, bote, at iba pa na napupuno tuwing umuulan at napapabayaan na lamang. Magpatingin agad sa doktor kapag pabalik-balik ang lagnat, namumula ang katawan, nananakit ang ulo at tiyan o kapag may kaso ng dengue sa lugar at nararamdaman mong may mga sintomas ka nito. Huwag na nating hintayin pang dumugo ang ating mga kasidlan bago pa tayo pumunta sa ospital.
          Maraming mga mumunting pangarap ang masasalba basta't hindi tayo nagpapatalo sa mga nakakainis na mga lamok na ito.

Finally Home

          Had you ever experienced waiting so long for your flight, doing just about anything at the departure area such as play Angry Birds on your laptop or type nonsensically on your cellphone, then suddenly, the airport personnel would inform you that your trip was cancelled? I had. Just my perfect definition of what they call “epic fail”.

          I was with my college friend, Charlene, whom I  just unexpectedly spotted sitting on a chair a couple inches across from mine. At first, I thought my eyes were only blurry. Maybe, she was just another stranger who looked like my leader in our college thesis project. When I called her name, she stood up with such surprise and we tried so hard for our shrieks to be mellowed down. I came over to chat with her. Oh, how I missed our out-of-this-world, crazy talks!

          She had been waiting here longer than I was. She was very much excited to meet her loved ones who had prepared something for her arrival after 11 months of missionary work abroad. Maybe food and tight hugs. Her best friends and boyfriend had been calling and texting her almost every minute. She told them that she would pass by a store to buy some additional food for the simple celebration back in her home.  

          How about me? Of course, I’m excited to go home too. Honestly, I missed home and I missed my dog, Chubby. It was quite a learning experience travelling in Manila. I didn’t plan to meet a lot of my relatives but I luckily had. I had met and cuddled their own huggable puppies too. I had tasted a lot of food that offered something incredibly new to my almost bored palate. I even tasted a cheap halo-halo with a leche flan on top from my tita’s  humble neighborhood. 

          Of course, my feet wearily trudged the streets of Quiapo, Divisoria, and Baclaran, thinking at the back of my mind that with clothes this cheap, how come there were still some who go naked on streets? I had been from Las Piñas to Bulacan with my sweat damping the butt of my shorts and the back of my shirt every time my cousins and I would rush to get into another jeepney, bus, or trike under the unforgiving sun.  I even thought I had been to all SM branches already in our desperation to cool ourselves down. Funny, but I would surely miss such unforgettable and one-of-a-kind experience.  Yet after a month of adventure, Iloilo was still waiting for me, for no matter where life and the wind would lead me, She would always be remembered.

         “The flight going to Iloilo is cancelled”, the crew of NAIA 3 said. “There are no lights in Iloilo Airport right now. It would be dangerous for the plane to land there”, he added. We were told to either rebook our flight or refund our payments for the tickets. 

          As expected, many of the passengers, including us, surrounded the crew, asking for clarity or if contingency measures would be available immediately so we could go home now and embrace our relatives who had been longing for our arrival. Some even shouted at the top of their lungs as they tried to squeeze out a reasonable explanation from the crew. A guy in his 50’s burst out in exasperation because he had a conference to attend. A father was infuriated because his family didn’t anymore have a hotel to stay in. And Charlene, after arriving late on her original flight and after paying 1,500 php to book the next schedule which happened to be my trip, had her shoulders dropped in dismay. She was expecting that she could finally meet her loved ones but here she was, trying to grasp the rationale behind why her trip home couldn’t smoothly push through.

          It was already night-time. We decided to rebook our flight, procuring a 10 am schedule for the next day. Some passengers took the 4 am flight, preferring to spend the night at the airport than cash out for another hotel or for fares that would take them back to the places they stayed in.

          I called my uncle and asked if my friend could come with me at their house since her place was really far from the city. He agreed, so we took a cab on the way to my uncle’s residence where we rested and waited for another day to pass by.  Charlene was thankful because despite the unexpected and unfathomable circumstances, God had found a way for her to stay safe and to bond with a friend she had not met for a long time.

          We heard in the news that the airport’s plant back in Iloilo was hit by a fire due to a short circuit, creating a power outage. This froze the whole operation of the airport, cancelling all the flights going to and from the province.

          I realized that such a crisis could not only hinder the passengers from flying to their respective destinations but it could also put a halt to various important personal and business transactions, resulting to certain losses of investment, may it be money or time.

          Alarmed upon hearing the crippling predicament, the local government instinctively thought of solutions to address such problem. Indeed, what had happened would serve as a great lesson to the province.  The officials should be ready at all times in preparing contingency measures that would prevent the incident to occur again in the future. Indeed, thinking of what might come when a particular dilemma transpires and finding ways to combat it is a critical intervention every organization must not overlook.

          Early morning the next day, Charlene and I prepared ourselves and our baggages for the flight. We thanked my tito and tita for amicably accommodating us. Yesterday had been a rough day but now, the morning was gleaming at us and I knew everything would be okay.

         Obviously, Charlene couldn’t hide her excitement as we entered the plane. It was true that we could definitely reach our destination if our hearts courageously go for it despite the barriers along the way.

        “This is it”, she uttered.  Yes, we may go to different places in the near future but let’s admit it, nothing feels like home.

Cooling It Down at Grotto Vista Resort, Bulacan

         From Manila, my two cousins and I went to Bulacan to meet another cousin and to take a swim in a popular pool situated there. It was scorching hot in Manila that we just wanted to dip our bodies into the cold water and release the accumulated heat that was waiting to burst out from our sweltering systems.

          From Quiapo, we rode an FX that dropped us at SM Fairview. My guy cousin, who is battling mood swings and pimples due to adolescence, decided to buy a board short from the mall’s department store.  We searched by the racks as well as by the tables where a lot of shorts were stacked on. Nothing caught his fancy. If there was, it would either be too big or too small for him.    Luckily, the statue wearing a board short which according to my instinct, would be the perfect fit, caught my attention. We then asked the salesgirl if we could try the one that the dummy was wearing. She did agree, stripping off the short from the mannequin and when my cousin tried it, it was exactly the one he’s looking for.

          What I loved about SM City Fairview was that it closely resembled SM City Iloilo that visiting the former made me feel I’m home again. Plus, Fairview had boutiques I couldn't find from other SM branches.  You’ll just love to drop by Jewels and Chemistry for awesome fashion finds. The mall also offered fun rides and exciting arcades at the top floor.

          Before we could head to our main destination, we first dined at Mang Inasal located at the Robinson’s Mall just right across SM. After we filled our tummies with unlimited rice, yummy chicken inasal, and sizzling sisig, we excitedly rushed outside for a transportation that would drive us to Grotto Vista. We found a jeepney labeled with “Grotto” that brought us directly to the resort.

          For a fare of 17 php each, we had arrived at Grotto Vista Resort,  Bulacan’s Premier Resort and San Jose del  Monte’s Pride. I was awestruck by the numerous people going to and fro the resort. When we get there, a show was going on right in front of what seemed to be their largest pool.  The show  was led by funny hosts who entertained the visitors through cracking a lot of jokes and who facilitated activities audience get to participate into.

          We paid 160 php each for the entrance fee since we decided to do night swimming as it was getting dark anyway. We were also given a key for a locker where we stored our bags and other necessities like our cellphones and wallets.

          The resort comprised of many pools but some only operate through private reservations such as the Covered Pool, Scenic Pool, and the Private Pool which could be rented for 12 hours.  Two pools were opened that day, the Galleon Ship and the Island Kiddie Pool. The first one, I guess, was the widest. Right in its middle, a huge archetypical ship complete with sails was built for swimmers to play into. Long, curvy slides descended from the top of the ship and from the rooftop patio located at the side of the pool. This pool was just right for the whole family to bask into especially for the kids since it only reached about  4-5 feet. Most of the deep pools were only open for reservations.

          We also tried the Island Kiddie Pool.  Just like the Galleon Ship, the height of this pool’s water also just reached to about 4-5 feet. But what’s special about this pool was its showers that fall from the pillars and from the Mushroom-like structures which could be your perfect spot to just sit down under its shade while letting the water pour upon your tired feet.

          A long, winding slide was also situated at the edge of the pool while shorter slides are built in a tree-like structure in the middle where a bridge connected to the foot way.

          We took most of our time swimming in the Island Kiddie Pool because I just loved the downpour of the showers and although smaller than the Galleon Ship,  it wasn’t that crowded compared to the latter. I enjoyed dipping with my cousins and how could we not take pictures, right? Summer with a splash of cool water on your skin has always been this ecstatic!

          There were also a line-up of food stands right at the entrance. Rooms were also available for overnight stay. There were large and small cottages to gather a family or a barkada. Videoke machines were also ready to function for those who love to belt out.

          After my cousins and I felt as if the heat within our bodies had completely vaporized, we then packed up, ready to leave for our next stop- meet another cousin and chat the night away.

The Avengers Paraphernalia at MOA

         I went to SM Mall of Asia yesterday and guess what, I met Thor and Iron Man of The Avengers! Too bad they're not breathing since they're just human-size statues waiting for their fans to take pictures with them. But up close, it seemed as though they're real,  equipped to save someone's life from danger. It was funny how a kid's eyes bulged in surprise when he's head was already close to Iron Man's face the moment he was carried by his father for picture taking.

         There were a lot of  cool Avenger miniature toys and collectibles that were displayed in the glass shelves. Some toys were also for sale. Of course, the children were really awed by all these fictional heroes coming to life. But the adults, especially the big guys, couldn't also take their eyes off from the various Avenger characters that come in different entertaining sizes and shapes.

These miniature toys re-enact a thrilling fight.

I am with the invincible Thor.

Captain America collectibles! Awesome!

You're the man, Iron Man!

Cute Captain America toys on display

Who said The Hulk cannot flash a smile?

Summer at the Mall

          When the heat being emitted by the summer sun just seems to be intolerable, Filipinos have a better , most common way to combat such – malling!

          That’s what my cousins and I exactly did. We strolled  at SM Megamall where people unstoppably swarmed its stores and restaurants. Truly, malling is a surefire way to escape the steamy atmosphere at home and in the streets.

          I have always loved window-shopping.  My eyes are entertained by all these cool stuff that allure me to cash out some moolah from my pocket. When temptation lurks, all I need is a little self-control, buying only the things that are of importance. But just because one doesn’t go home with bags of new clothes and shoes, it doesn't mean he can no longer enjoy malling. In fact, just by cooling oneself as he walks past different stalls is already an entertaining recreation most especially when he’s with family and friends.  

          My cousins and I first filled our hungry tummies with the tasty, superbly meaty Mexican Chicken from El Pollo Locco. Seriously, I just couldn’t get enough of this delicious chicken.

         Then, after being energized with a fulfilling food, we just strolled through shops and department stores.  I bought a transparent spectacle on sale so that I could transform into the nerdy me when the mood arises.

         Afterwhich, we just headed to Papemelroti, a store that sells recycled paraphernalia and keepsakes such as this awesome little notebook and this simple, inspiring organizer (picture below) I purchased for just a cheap price.

         Well, I didn’t spend my summer by the beach but I did happily spend it in a place where families and friends usually come together to chill away from the scorching heat. I spent my summer at the mall and honestly, I liked it.

Cinderella Searches Her Shoes

           My cousin and I went to Glorietta mall because she was planning to buy a new pair of shoes. Before we could start the hunt, we first snack out at McDo. I ordered their new Iced Coffee for an upper.

McDo's gift for coffee lovers.

          Afterwhich, we strolled and strolled, and our feet were getting weary of going from the department stores to boutiques just to find the perfect pair. Whenever we went inside one shop, my eyes would instinctively look for a chair or bench just so my toes could rest for awhile.  "Cinderella" had been searching for what she thought would be the exact fit and style but we had already roamed the neighboring malls, Greenbelt and SM, yet it seemed it wasn't her lucky day after all.
           It wasn't a good day too for my bladder since I kept going to the toilet almost every hour and I didn't know why. Maybe because I was eating a lot of sweets lately that my sugar might have shoot up.
          Our day wasn't that bad, I may say. Though our feet were almost giving up from all the trudging from one mall to another, we still enjoyed laughing and chatting while we visit many cool stores with cool finds. Too bad we just had to stare at them and dream they were all ours...hahaha. We also treated ourselves with a scrumptious lunch at Hen Lin, Greenbelt branch. I liked their fried sharksfin which came with rice for 51 php only. My cousin got herself a lumpia meal which also tasted good.

An affordable yet satisfying meal at Hen Lin.

           Cinderella didn't go home with the shoes she was yearning, but I guess, life's like that. It's the journey that's important, not the destination. We had fun going around Makati and that's the fulfillment a brand new shoes cannot similarly give.

Meet-up at SM City Lazaro

          I met with my friends, Glaiza and Emrose, at SM Lazaro for a quick malling and catching up with one another. Being here in Manila isn’t easy when it comes to travelling from one place to another especially if you’re new in the metro just like me. Unlike Iloilo City, Manila is puzzling me with the twists and turns of its roads and it would obviously be tough for me to memorize it for one day. But I guess, given the time (and the map!), I can probably master it. For as long as you’re alert and know how to ask questions, I think you’ll probably adapt with the busy yet alive environment.

          SM City Lazaro. This was my goal destination for the day.  I passed by the U-belt but the jeepney didn’t went further towards Quiapo because the route was closed due to an anticipated rally perhaps. The heat was just super hot, my sweat was dripping on my head. 

           I didn’t know what to ride next, so, after a few walks, I rode a taxi going to our meeting place. SM City Lazaro really looked so close with SM City Iloilo but of course, the former had stores that you could not find in the latter.

          With just one day left in Manila, my friends bought some souvenir items and they just found it at the Blue Magic store. The boutique offered a lot of gift items at reasonable prices such as cute and huggable stuff toys, handcrafted accessories, quirky greeting cards, and wooden paraphernalias painted with inspiring messages. The store was just the perfect haven for giveaways in various special occasions. I also found rosaries with beads coinciding with the different birthstones, artistically designed pens and pencils, jelly toy rats to pull off a prank to someone, and scrolls made of fabric with good poems written on them. Bags, wallets, purses, and cellphone accessories were also available.

         After some strolling, we of course, took our meal and we decided to feast on Burger King. We had their 135-peso combo consisting of  BBQ burger, fries, soda, and ice cream.  Yummy!

        Afterwhich, we just parted ways knowing that we’ll see each other again in Iloilo. They actually had plans of going to Tagaytay the next day.

         I wished I could go with them but unfortunately, It would be a little hard for me. I just imagined how cool it would be to visit Tagaytay. You can just chill away from the scorching sun and take pleasure in watching lush green trees. But for now, I’ll enjoy my stay in Manila and be amazed with the freshness it can offer my eyes. And yes, enjoy good food!