Michelle on the Pedestal

Le Love's "I hereby" Haha!

2012-01-31T01:05:00.000+08:00

I hereby stop thinking of boys. Stop thinking that "maybe there’s still someone out there for me", making up scenarios in my head about how I could meet someone, about how it would be to be with someone. I hereby stop falling in love with boys that do in fact exist, but which I give nonexistent fantastic personalities in my mind, without even knowing them. I will now stop doing all of this, thinking and dreaming about all of this. It’s only taking precious time that could be used in some other way. It’s only taking my energy and making me hope for things that cannot, and probably will not happen. These thoughts are like bubbles, hurting me when they break and when I realize that it was always only in my head and never for real. I hereby stop doing this. If I am to experience love, I want it to be for real. And if I’m not, well that sucks, but life goes on, and I like to believe that there’s more to it than falling in love. From now on, I’m going to stop making up all these dreams, and going to focus on the reality instead. Life can be so much more, and you have only one, so why waste it on this pointless dreaming. It may sound harsh, but I’m done with these dreams now. They give me nothing but a heartache.

I’m not giving up on love. And I know that dreams can be a wonderful way to escape reality. I just don’t want for them to take over. I don’t want to hold on to these dream-bubbles and make myself fly so high that I won’t survive the fall.

PSS Batchmates Get Together

2012-01-25T21:28:00.000+08:00

Another reunion happened this month with my political science batchmates. It was amazing for we had dinner with some of my classmates after me and Carol had finished taking our exam on Secured Transactions which was quite a headache. Thank God my pss mates decided we go out for dinner so that I can relax my braincells. Hehe. After we had our dinner at Tita Fannies we then head on to Iliganon since Sportsbuck Karaoke was full during that night. We spent an hour or two singing and chatting with what's new in our lives. I am really happy I get to meet with them. I missed College days so much. I really had fun with Glenice, Carol, Bebang, Ian, Feb, JR and my sister in MKP, sis Zam. So sad the others couldn't make it but like I said, there will always be next times. I am pretty sure there will be part three, four, five and so on. I can't wait :D

As it is, "BIBOOOOOOO ANG POLSCI!" :)

Inspired by Le Love

2012-01-25T14:09:00.000+08:00

I haven't fallen in love yet or maybe I did. I really don't know. I'm only twenty two, the baby of the family as being the youngest, but that doesn't stop me from wanting it so badly.

As long as I can remember I've always been searching for "the one." Romance novels, disney fairytales, and Hollywood chick flicks have put images of white knights and prince charmings in my head that realistically don't exist. Alas the hopeless romantic, emphasis on hopeless, LOL! Not really that hopeless at all. I am just thinking can I ever meet the man that I would soon be spending the rest of my life with, when will it be and how? And more importantly in his heart, was choosing me the best choice he has ever made? So many questions that I have set my eyes peeled in case one magically walked through a magic mirror into this world searching for me too.

I have a need. A need to write it down, to get my feelings on this paper so I have something that I can hold on to. Because I am confused, so very confused, wandering around a dark room not knowing why or how I ended up in it. Like a cliché. So many stories that I read are applicable to mine, but still I feel a need to write my own story down, a substitute is just not good enough.

I can’t get the hang of this. I’ve been typing and erasing and can’t decide how to write so I don’t know how it will turn out. My story is confusing, especially to me. You see, everything we’ve been through, it’s so baffling, intertwined and complexly stretched out that I can’t even put it into words.

As my first semester in my fourth year at law school comes around the corner, I cannot help but think "will he be in this room?", as I walk into new classes; a clean slate, they don't know me and I don't know them.

Believe it when it's said, I'm not desperate nor do I need a boyfriend. Believe it when it's said, I just want to know what it feels like, to have someone in which you can be 100% yourself, that will love all your flaws as you love his or hers.

You see I am a sucker for books, and sappy stories, though I do not like showing it sometimes. Both happy endings and tragic endings appeal to me because the characters in stories always feel something nonetheless. Dreaming is all I have ever known.

So I'm terrified that I'll be one of those girls who never falls in love because it hasn't happened yet. I don't exactly know if falling in love is the same with falling in like. It's quite a broad concept. I'm also terrified that I'll be one of those girls who falls for anyone just to see if love could be found there.

Who will love the girl who loves getting lost in a book, chasing those fantasies that only exist in her mind?

Who will love the girl who suddenly gets quiet because she got a bad vibe, so it ruins her whole day?

Who will love the girl who gets lost is her train of thoughts and will never be able to tell you why she got lost in the first place?

Who will love the girl who yearns for those midnight talks about life and what it has to bring?

Who will love the girl?

I know that I'm not the only one out there who feels this way. Younger, older, wiser: there are many of us. It's a scary concept, love, but I still want to feel it.

Kiong Hee T'han Chi with FIF & my Family

2012-01-23T21:11:00.000+08:00

In celebration of the Chinese New Year, my sisters from MKP Glenice & Zam had a sleepover in our house on 22 and planned to jog early on 23 in the City Plaza then off to the market to buy ingredients on making pink na biko. It was actually a dare and so we took the challenge seriously. LOL! It was the first time that we ate pink na biko with my family and it was just as tasty as the ordinary brown biko. My family was amazed and shocked for they too have eaten such biko for the first time.. pink! As in, pink kaayo! :D So here is our take on the "pagsure ba kay magpink ta ug biko ron!" Tadaaa!

Instead of saying Kong Hei Fat Choi which is Happy Chinese New Year for Thai's, but the Chinese would say Kiong Hee T'han Chi. Just so you know.. I have Chinese blood, or so I thought :D

The Brown Box

2012-01-20T05:44:00.002+08:00

Went through my old notes from a brown box I carefully tucked in my room. I had it since fourth year high school and almost 8 years after, I found it and had enough time going through those dusty notes, stuff toys and other memorabilia. Opening this box spawns lots of colorful and painful memories that taught me a lot of things. I became a student of life and the experiences I had were carefully documented and hidden in this box. Looking at a few poem compositions, it made me smile. I wrote this poem on December 20, 2004 and I really don't or maybe I lost track of time that I forgot to whom this was for or perhaps I just loved to write something about it. So here's just some of the poem that I've written. This one's quite an emo-ish! :D

I Love Him (But I'm Just A Friend)

I can feel my heart beats faster;

Whenever I hear his name.

I looked for him everywhere;

When I can't find him myself I blame.

I've fallen so inquisitive;

Although I need a lot of help.

I have fallen in - love so deeply,

I can't concentrate thinking of him constantly.

From all the feelings I hide,

I can't let them out of my heart.

For I fear that he might go away,

It would make me go crazy.

With all my heart I care for him,

But our chances are so dim.

I love him and I just can't pretend,

But to him.. I am just a friend.

I may have altered a few stanzas to perfectly fit the emotion per line and with its rhyme as well. I loved how at the age of 15 I got acquainted with poetry. I hope to awaken this poetic heart. I just need time and enough inspiration to do it someday soon.. ♥ =)

Hoping..

2012-01-19T14:51:00.002+08:00

Haha. I bought my planner for this year just last week when my dearest mom told me to go to the grocery and buy goods to be displayed to our mini-store at home. Then I saw a nearby Chinese store those nice-looking planners. I had to buy one and eventually I had my first ever planner in my entire existence.

I had to have it to somehow organize my kinda-messy-busy lifestyle which I like. Haha. I just hope this ain't gonna be the last planner I'll ever have for the Mayan's predict that this year is their calculated doomsday of the human race. Take note: doomsday happens on my best-friend's natal day, Glenice, on December 21. LOL! What a birthday!

Nahh.. we can never tell when's that day gonna happen for sure. It could be that it might occur in advance or a bit late. Only God knows our fate on that. He has the sole power to demand that very day to happen unceremoniously. But whether it'll be this year or next, we should all be ready. It's still not too late to pray and forgive those who have sinned on you. We still have enough time to change and come closer to God. I know each of us are afraid of what lies before us for fear in itself is a sign of humanity. We fear the unknown.

Last year's events made me realize tons of things. I forgave and let go of a deep seated anger. I am now at peace with myself. I think I did enough good deeds in contrary to my bad deeds. For I myself is a firm believer that when we share and do good things, good karma will be a repercussion into our lives.

Still I am praying that this planner won't be the last planner I'll ever have. I still need to graduate from law school, take the bar, be an attorney soon, help my family and be of good use to the society, be found by my very own MR. RIGHT and fall deeply, insanely and endlessly in love with him and be blessed to see our kids grow in love and faith in God.

I hope God won't take that opportunity away from me. Please not now. Not yet. I hope my mission here on earth is still on going. I hope.. ♥ =)

College Get Together

2012-01-15T09:07:00.000+08:00

Last week, January 14 to be exact, me and my College classmates had a get together after a month or year of not seeing each other. Though there were only four of us but it was great to have communicated with them once again. We talked far and wide not just about lovelife, work but more particularly on the current events such as the impeachment trial on CJ Corona and Sendong event of which the four of us shared the same sentiments of hating the YELLOW administration. We are also in cahoots with each other on despising what our local government has done with regards to improperly allocating the food, money and other resources for the victims of Sendong.

Our girls night out was all about fun and intelligent discussions on the government and how will we be able to help especially so in preventing to have a sequel of Sendong. Oh well, it was a blast! Totally I had a great time with the leap year girls Gemma and Cyril as well as with best bud Glenice. Although we may have drifted apart for years but we haven't forgotten each other. Now that we're reunited, there are really tons of things to catch up and I am glad to be with them once again. Here are a few pictures I took to reminisce the moments we had at Iliganon's private karaoke room and at Zoey Cafe.

Biboooooooo ang polsci. Sikhai! (Nazi salute style) Hehe. I can never forget those cheers during CASS days thanks to JR's creativity. LOL! I do miss my other college classmates. I do hope they are okay and that soon enough, hindi lang apat kundi the entire class shall have a reunion. It'll be exciting! We might not be complete when we had this unplanned get together but I hope more of my classmates will join especially this coming Feb. 29. The leap year girls big day. Waa!! I haven't gone to the beach for months maybe because of the Sendong tragedy but the girls are planning to celebrate their birthday at the beach. It's been three years already and look how time flies by. I am just overwhelmed and lucky that our paths have merged and created something beautiful - FRIENDSHIP. ♥ =)

Baby Ruth's and Lotsa Positivity!

2012-01-13T23:45:00.000+08:00

Too much paper work, readings and worries. At times I lose much of my focus and that positive radiance. But whenever I envision my future to be and glancing at the url address of my blog account. THINK OF HAPPY THOUGHTS.. that, my love, get's me going through turbulent times! =)

Prayers. Smiles. Hugs. Laughter. Music. Meditate. Happy Thoughts and Chocolates solves it all. I'ma munch baby ruth's right now. Nomnom. Chocolates' are heaven sent for they act as an aphrodisiac to my stressed body. Scientists say that chocolate contains henylephylamine which causes more happy neurons in our body to suppress pain and stress thus making the human body cured and energized. This same hormone is the same one that our brain triggers when we fall in-love. Although I am not in-love these days but I feel like I am every time I eat chocolates most especially in times where I am so fussed about work, school and the council.

Chocolates are my savior for they not only come to my rescue when I feel weak but it is also because when I eat it, it lowers my cholesterol level and reduces any kind of heart disease due to the pressure and exhaustion from worrying a lot.

However, ones happiness and hope of solving problems is not just based on chocolates alone. But being positive in everything you do, the good vibes is all in all, what makes a part of living a life of contentment. So instead of complaining and cursing like a drunken sailor because of piles of work to do and stress is killing me making me look old, ugly and bitter. Then I might as well try to change my perspective and rather be grateful in whatever situation I am. Being grateful even at bad times is what makes you strong. Smiling at it and making a way to solve a problem should be practiced more often. For there is no fashion statement or an accessory that shines better than a positive and radiant self.

Cursing is a sin and if we keep on getting bitter of the tiresome job we do on a mundane basis, papangit na nga tayo tapos nakapagsala pa tayo sa kaka-curse natin at ang ending, walang output para masolve ang problema making your day very unproductive. Living a life with an attitude of gratitude is a life worth living. Thinking positive is always the best thing to do and choosing to be happy is sexy. It looks good on anyone. Choosing to be positive would eventually save my future in jeopardy. Kaya, tawanan na lang ang problema at magmove-on! Get back to living and the cycle goes on.

Hurray to whoever discovered the chocolate. You are a genius! ♥ =)

Uso pa ba ang harana?

2012-01-12T23:50:00.000+08:00

Are you familiar of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" or Disney's "Rapunzel" or how about the Philippines "Florante at Laura" by Balagtas?

For me, all these stories depict one thing which is that the main characters expressed adoration for each other. So, how does a guy courts a girl these days as compared before? Well, here in the Philippine setting, during the time when we were colonized by Spain, t'was during this period that we have this so-called "Harana" which is just one of the many old Filipino courtship tradition. It is our very own tradition with such strong influences from the Spanish culture. Although some historians believe that harana already existed even before the Spaniards landed in the Philippine shores. The word "harana" in Filipino dialect is to serenade. If Spain has a very feisty and seductive tempo, harana in Philippines is quite a romantic and slow song rendered to a woman by a man who wants to court her through singing, through the love of music.

Therefore, men during those days are fond of serenading the women they desire by visiting the woman's house at night time, dressed handsomely and perhaps tugging along a bouquet of flowers. Then he along with a group of friends plays music with the accompaniment of a guitar and sing their hearts out with the most touching and romantic love songs they offer to the "dalagang Filipina" (Filipina Maiden).The usual scenario for a harana to happen is that, the guy stands in front of the house, near the window of the lady, call out for her name and if she opens the window for the guy then it means she is interested to hear him sing for her and the gentleman does his very best through singing so that he will eventually win her heart and become his woman. You have to do it right in public, even if it means that passerby are to stop, stare and listen as well. It's like a public confession of how you truly admire the lady, the apple of your eye.

Most of the harana's were actually done in rural areas and small towns in the Philippines a long time ago. Maybe during my grandparent's time because when I asked my mom about it if she'd ever experienced being serenaded, she told me she was but not that kind of thing that would definitely define what "harana" really is in the past. But she told me that my grandmother experienced it and most famous harana's she has heard were "Bituing Marikit" (Beautiful Star), "O, Ilaw" (O, Light) and "Alaala Ka" (Remembering You). All of these songs are intricately designed to capture the woman's attention and heart as if every lyric describes her beauty and how the man was captivated of it which I find really passionate and sweet.

As of the current civilization, naks! Haha. I haven't for my 22 years of existence have seen an actual harana. But I somehow experienced being serenaded by a guy not personally but through the cellphone. Well, I guess, welcome to the dawn of the digital age my dear :P

However, the harana experience I got was not the typical kind of harana where a guy is deeply interested in you but this was just a friendly harana. I admit, I was jumpy to have received that call from a former crush that I might scream to the heavens. Muhaha! He's a good friend of mine but it was quite awkward because we haven't communicated nor seen each other for a long time and all of a sudden he called me up like beyond 12 midnight and asked me if I'd accept a harana from him? LOL! That was sweet but it was just a friendly approach since he is in a relationship and of course, I only see him as a good friend too.

Oh well, he did have a nice voice. Husky, manly and totally desirable to hear at. He sang to me more or less 6 songs I suppose. That was the first time I've experienced a harana from him. I consider him a friend but in truth, we've never really spoken in person before. It's weird that we're getting closer via texts, calls and virtually online. I don't find it wrong rather I find it interesting since I've get to befriend a soon to be brother in MKP and get to share to him my interest too in music. I just thought that we have quite the same interests when it comes to music, the songs and the artists. I am happy to have heard him sing for free. LOL! And I am grateful too that I get to encourage him to step beyond his comfort zone and upsized his confidence because he does have a breath-taking voice.It's rare for people to have a beautiful voice and I believe it's one of his calidad humana (human quality) that I find interesting.

Quite a number of firsts happened in 2011 for me and I hope to have the same experience too but way more fun, exciting and sensational for this year. Truly, the emergence of the internet gave a new venue for the traditional harana or even courtship. That modern harana I got was the first time. It was special and in kilig in a way. Of course, who wouldn't naman, diba? Like, first time to have heard it and have that experience..like duh! Magtatalon ka talaga sa kilig. =)

And as for the question if "uso pa ba ang harana?" (Does serenading still exist?) I believe it still is but the concept has been a lil bit revamped pero ang importante doon is the intention. Whether the "harana" is done modernly or traditionally, live or not, it's the thought and feeling that counts yah know. Every girl gets so kilig at that. Sariling diskarte lang basta't you are true to your heart. Swak na yon'. Other's may call you baduy or corny if you have the balls to try the traditional harana, but there's no harm in trying naman. Kahit madalang na ang gumagawa niyan, it still is effective lalo pa at mahal mong talaga ang babae. Yon ang importante, above all dapat ang purpose is to persuade the girl and to win her heart. ♥ =)

Maka-pasta po ako!

2012-01-12T02:02:00.000+08:00

Yup! Pasta is the name. Haha. Totoo. I am addicted to pastas, any kind of it. Even if punta kami ng mall, ayoko sa McDo, Chowking not even sa Jollibee although I admit mahal ko ang iba kaso mas mahal ko ang Greenwich. Ang sarap sarap ng pasta nila doon, pizza at french fries and of course, ang favorite ko na four seasons. Nang dahil sa mga fast food chains na to especially Greenwich, ito ang rason kung bakit ako tumaba starting last year nong time na nagwowork pa ako as a writer in an online job. Haay.. those were the days.

But wait, ano ba meron sa pasta at ang sarap nito?

Sabi ni pareng Google, pasta daw has a long and noble history. I also saw in the TV sa channel ng Lifestyle Network yong show ng dalawang Italyano na chef na favorite ni mama panoorin. I learned na ang pasta daw ay pagkain ng mga poor sa Italya. It was invented daw ng isang mahirap na Italyano preferrably sa Naples with the intention na this food can be stored up for years for the poor to have enough to eat three times a day. It was indeed, the pride and glory of Italy. And isa sa mga royal blood ng Italy, si Queen Margarita came to the community of the poor and nakikain sa tinaguriang "pagkain ng mga mahihirap" at dahil doon mas na-appreciate ito ng kanyang mga nasasakupan at mas napamahal siya rito.

And because of that also, ginawan ng mga chef sa Naples ang Reyna ng pizza at pasta na ipinangalan sa kanya. So if you like to travel to Italy then better yet order their famous pasta or pizza Margarita. Ang hindi ko lang alam if saan talaga nag-originate ang pasta kase apart from Italy, ang bansang China din is claiming that they have been making pasta since at least 3000 B.C. It was even thought of that Marco Polo was the first navigator to have introduced pasta in Europe and the other countries as well. But either way, masarap talaga ang pasta! L'amore! ♥ =)

France, here I come!

2012-01-11T19:12:00.000+08:00

I'll be at France to stay there and journey the best that the City of Love has to offer for 13 months. I can't believe I'd get a free ticket with free accommodations too. It's the best thing so far that's happened in my life since I've never had a trip, internationally! Plus, it might sound scary to travel alone yet this amazing experience will truly teach me a lot of lessons. My female friends too have been offered of the same thing and others have traveled to other continents of the world. Others go to the Dominican Republic, New York, Miami etc. This is such a beautiful thing that has happened as the year 2012 starts.. BUT.. oops!! Sahrey! It's just a spoof! Remember the time when women world wide had caught the attention of netizens all over the globe about the color of the bra thingy trending on Facebook, where to put the bag, what food we've been craving for days.. Those were done in honor of the annual celebration of the internationally recognized awareness campaign for breast cancer. It's been going on for years and is celebrated on October. People who support this movement usually not only do stuffs to gain awareness via various social networking sites but others have done running marathons and the likes while wearing anything that is colored pink.

This is not just about playing games or just to post a status on your Facebook account but this is an event where we help spread the awareness about the disease, learning from it, how to prevent it and to help others who have been suffering from it. Breast cancer is not just for women, it is for men too. Everyone must be cautious about what breast cancer really is so that as early as now, we can help save lives and help raise funds for research on a solution for it. The power of the word of mouth and in the virtual world by posting breast cancer awareness campaign is very important to educate others about the event. It's not just about raising money to help cancer patients but it is to remind others about breast cancer awareness and then tell the others about what you know and how you can put a halt to this kind of illness. It may be too early to celebrate it since we still have 9 months to wait, still, happy breast cancer awareness ahead to y'all!

Oh well, a trip to Paris will just be a dream then. A dream I so wanna make it a reality. But nothing to worry about having it as a beautiful dream for dreaming alone is for free. Just be hopeful, you'll never know what lies ahead. You might one day travel to the City of Love alone or with someone you adore. In time..
For now, adieu! Catch ya later.. ♥ =)

Mr. Unpredictable

2012-01-10T02:05:00.001+08:00

The most awaited moment after the New Year celebration is to be with my closest girlfriends on the first day of class and have dinner with them at Jollibee and chika just about everything with them all. Yet, out of the three gal pals I've been so closed with, only one came with me but no worries. I still loved the company of a true friend like Richie. I know the others are quite busy with work and stuffs but we'll all be reunited for sure.

Well, to start off, Richie and I were definitely giggly about updates from our lives, Sendong, school and especially matters of the love department. It was such a joy sharing with her of the things I so wanna share with my sisters but couldn't do so because they might not approve of it and it felt quite awkward to have it talk out with them. What is even weird is I feel more comfortable being with my non-biological sisters when the topic shifts to talking about boys and the likes. Haha!

And the moment when we were kind of talking about our lovelife, I felt so happy for my girlfriend since she's starting to move on with her last relationship. She now finds another love interest and she hopes just like any girl is praying for that this one she is crazy about might be the right one for her.

Then all of a sudden, during our ever so-loud laughter and bruhahas, we kind of babbled about reciprocal love for she and I have such similar situations. I asked her about her opinion on my recent "kilig" and she thinks there's a special thing going on between me and the guy, let's just call him, Mr. Unpredictable. :)

The fact that both of me and that dude felt something special for each other even after so many years has passed by, Richie and I are certain that there is indeed a "compromise of reciprocal concessions" between Mr. Unpredictable and me. Haha! Inspired by Secured Transactions class, I guess SO.

I really hope that Mr. Unpredictable will still sweep me off of my feet and stay true to his feelings for me. It wouldn't take a scientist to know what's actually going on between us for even a 6 year old kid knows that when you looked me in the eye, there were sparks in it and that for me, it is undeniable that for years, that same feeling I get from the very first time I fell for you is the one that gets me everytime I look into those eyes.

This was the feeling that is the hardest to deny. Your smile, everything about you even the thought of your name alone creates a sudden upsurge of different emotions, the fast beat of my heart and no matter how I try not to still feel that same feeling for almost eight years now can not be controlled. YOU are still the one. I still feel you the way I felt when I was just 15 years old.

I don't know if you are reading this right now, but I am pretty sure if you do and if you still feel the same way for me after all those years, I will just be here waiting for you to come back and let's see where destiny takes us.You are still my very heart and life. Always. But recently, you have been missing in action and it's kinda bothering me at times. Hmn.. the last moment we chat was amazing but why the sudden disappearance? Hey, Mr. Unpredictable, are you still there? ♥ =)

Boongon for a bitchy mouth sore!

2012-01-09T09:08:00.000+08:00

Last week and up to now, I still have gum/mouth sores and it's very painful to talk and even to eat. Whenever I get this, I feel so weak and feverish. I feel bitchy too! Huh! It's like getting PMS! Waa! I don't feel like being pretty and in a good mood. I don't feel like studying and I feel like I am uncomfortable going out. I just wanna hibernate at home until such time that these sores are healed. I dunno what's wrong with my health because so far, I believe I am healthy it's just that I just don't understand why I often get mouth sores when in fact I do take a bath everyday, I regularly brush my teeth and I eat healthy foods. Then my sister told me that maybe I lack vitamin C or that I am not eating a lot of fruits or vegetables too. Well, I beg to disagree coz I am a foodie and I love eating fruits such as banana's and this one, boongon.

But either way, I decided to bombard my meal and snacks with lotsa fruits on the table. I've been eating tons of citrus fruits and taking my medicine, a chewable ascorbic acid. I decided to buy a dozen pack of poten cees and drink it up three times a day after taking my meal.

So as you can see, I am trying my very best to keep fit and healthy. During in between studies, instead of eating junk foods I am firm in wanting to eat fruits. As a proof, I have this picture on the left side. Haha!

I am currently eating a Filipino fruit which we call "boongon". It's sweet and sour but I just love the taste of it. It's quite cheap to buy and yet it's so rich in vitamin c. That's why all the more, I love this fruit! I am planning to make a smoothie based on this fruit. I just hope it'll taste delish! I loved eating it for it's soft to eat making it less painful for me to munch at.

Haaay.. I really do hope this will help me gain back my utter freedom of talking and eating more foods. Muhaha! Still crossing my fingers for positive results. Help me pray for my health. Thanks a bunch! Xoxo..♥ =)

Order me this when we go to Jollibee..

2012-01-08T19:51:00.000+08:00

Haha! It's been a fun day with mom after we went to the Church and prayed fervently. I just love being with my mother. I love her soooo much! I just can't imagine myself if she's not with me. I might be at a loss for anything. Having these cordial dates with my mom is one of the best past times for me. Talking to her, praying with her and giggling with her. Aaah.. mi mama mi amore!

After we had finished praying that Sunday evening, we then took our dinner at Jollibee. It is one of our common favorite fast food chains. She told me to order her her favorite C2 and asked for any soup available. I then introduced her to one of my food cravings from Jollibee. Their macaroni soup although I still miss their tuna pie.

So whoever among my close friends who have read this, if you want to treat me.. just so you know, I love JB's macaroni soup. Just sayin' ♥ =)

Lady Finger (Bro-as)

2012-01-08T16:54:00.000+08:00

That sweet cookie taste. Bro-as. Others call it lady finger but the kind of bro-as I am so addicted at the moment is that tiny-meany circle that tastes so delicious for merienda or after a break from studying. My mom bought this as a paninda but I end up sneaking and getting it from our mini-store. Ssh... :P

First taste it already made me fall in love with it. And since then I've been day-dreaming about it on and on. LOL! Such a foodie, don't you think? Hehe. Now I am looking for more. I thought I'd be going gaga finding which grocery in Iligan aI'll be buying it from but fortunately for me I''ve had to buy these snacks from a mini-grocery just a walking distance away from our house. Love it! If our Lagermania oven is back to baking, I'll nevertheless learn cooking all sorts of foods especially this one. The smell of it fresh from the oven and paired with buttercream is making me salivating. Uh-owm! ♥ =)

Puto Maya On A Gloomy Saturday

2012-01-07T08:26:00.000+08:00

It's raining again. Can't help myself but become traumatic that that Sendong event might occur anytime again soon. Rain-Phobia. There are still evacuees here in a school nearby and it's sad that up to now they have not been relocated to houses that are supposed to be managed by the local officials here in Iligan. I hope things will be better for them soon as well as for my sisters who have also been victims of said calamity.

So today, my family had an early chika (talk) while taking our breakfast eating puto maya (another form of rice cake/kakanin) and a cup of hot coco. This is the best food on a rainy morning while they are sharing their experiences of TS Sendong meantime I've been munching the delicious puto maya. Hehe.

Unlike suman (see previous post), puto maya is another kind of the classic Filipino rice cake of which the rice is in color violet. And just like suman, it has the same process of cooking and taste as delicious as the former. It's one of my favorite ultimate comfort foods especially in this kind of weather. Look it! #LetsEatFilipinoFoods ♥ =)

#ItsMoreFunInThePhilippines

2012-01-05T18:08:00.000+08:00

I am a self-confessed foodie and today I was alone at home while trying to arrange stuffs in our little mini-grocery/tindahan. I was the "tindera" for the day since my Mom went to the City to manage the documents for this year's tax payment on our house, store and our car. Since I've been quite hungry after tending our store and cleaning the house, I treated myself with another Philippine street food. Look it!

Other favorite street food includes kwek-kwek (orange egg), balut, tempura and squid ball. There are more things I have yet to discover for in my beloved country that's why the title says it all, twitter trending inspired. Haha! Indulging my taste buds on some streefoods is just one of the main reason why truly it is more "bibo" (fun) in the Philippines. And. I. LOVE. IT! Masarap na fishball,anyone? Hehe. Until next street food discovery! Xoxo..♥ =)

I can see clearly now..

2012-01-04T11:29:00.000+08:00

Yepey! I finally got my new pair of eyeglasses. It's an early birthday present from my dearest mother. It's like 4 months in advance. Haha! Now out of the blue, I've been humming the song from Bob Marley. Definitely, I can see clearly now. It's a 50/50 healthy vision for me and my mom too. She's also had her new glasses. Now she won't be feeling that darn headache anymore.

It's a great way to start the year right. It's gonna be a bright, bright, sun shiny day! ♥ =)

New Year: Spic and Span House

2012-01-03T12:12:00.000+08:00

A new year is new start. To welcome 2012 with an open heart is to have a place to live that's clean and healthy. I've had my bandana,cleaning gloves and gadgets on for this week. I started cleaning the entire kitchen the other day and next day I'll be cleaning the sala, the comfort room as well as my mini-library upstairs. It'll be busy week. After all those cleaning going on, I've gotta rest and fuel up. Eat some pizza, I say. We ordered pizza from Alberto's and it's amazing as always. Here's what I'ma talk about:

Eye Care

2012-01-02T19:34:00.000+08:00

Eye care is to I care.

YES! I care for my body as much as I care for the people I love. And when it comes to looking after my health I need to go to my ophthalmologist with my mom today. It was quite a rainy afternoon but it settled down awhile after me and my beloved mother had a heart to heart talk while taking our lunch at Merry Muffet. (Haha!) Awkward to have that talk for the first time with her but it was a great feeling after you have divulged your secrets when it comes to matters of the heart. I mean, I am never open to my mom about it but I guess this is the right time to tell her just about everything now that she gave me the permission to be in a relationship already. Waa! Pressured. But. I think. I am not yet ready. :D But having that talk with her was overwhelming especially so that I now know she's cool with me having a special someone soon. It definitely made my day since I am already 22 and I already have the freedom to have a paramour. LOL! Talking about a very strict family when it comes to lovelife. Indeed, it was a relief. I have yet to find the one though. I hope he'll hurry up. Haha!

After we had that talk, we did went to Salang Optical Clinic and remade a new frame and pair of lenses for my eye glasses.

Tomorrow will be getting me and my moms glasses. Can't wait ♥ =)

Year End Countdown for 2011: First Times & Freedom

2012-01-01T16:32:00.000+08:00

KASAMA Team!

Last year was such a joyride. The ups and downs. You name it! I have to say it has been a very busy, fun, liberating, shocking and absolutely one helluva scary ride. I say busy 'coz I've won the position as treasurer in the College of Law's Student Council last February but sad because I've to give up my online job because I have not been active on it especially during campaigning time. Thus, I was jobless for a moment but not for long.

More so to in February, my MKP family held a first ever sportsfest and it was also the first time I have played bowling. It was great! Also, we did a feeding and outreach program to some communities in Iligan. We went to some schools and in Bantay Bata to cheer up and give goodies to female kids who have been victims of rape. It was something I've always wanted to do which is to help other people in their ordeals in life. It was a gratifying feeling to have helped them & made them smile because of our lil efforts to make their day special.

Precious, Zam, Jehan, Glen and Me :)

By March my batch, the so-called "Fortiores in Fide" is now, for one year, a certified member of Mu Kappa Phi. And in the same month, I have concluded my second semester at law school - FINISHED. I may be an irregular student and surely I will not be able to graduate on time but it doesn't matter so long as I will be diligent in my studies and be optimistic still. Like what my friend told me, IT ISN'T A RACE. Just do good at school and aim for the top :)

The creative Taurean/Earth Snake that I am and like I said, I will not be jobless for long. I have been hired as a legal researcher/secretary at Gandamra Law Office in the month of May. But then again, I realized the work was kinda stressful and I had to be more focused on my studies for next semester therefore leaving me jobless again. It would have been a pretty awesome job knowing that I am a law student and the experience would have been grand. It would have helped me honed my skills in the said profession very soon especially making docus on memorandum, pleadings and the likes. It was actually a great working place the fact that my bosses are my fraternal brod and sis in Mu Kappa Phi and I feel comfortable but sadly it wasn't good for me to work there for full time and I am concerned about the fact that I might have lots of absences at work due to my being an officer in the student council too.

My take on the pixie-look. Haha! Me with the beautiful ladies
Monique, Joyce and Niel at Malibu House,
Malaybalay, Bukidnon. :)

Still, in the month of May, my being so busy has now commenced in full throttle. Such as talking about traveling and a few contests to attend to such as the ALSP event at Bukidnon with brod Nader and ate Joyce. It was a great experience and again, I met new faces and traveled alone without any family member to escort me there, FOR THE FIRST TIME.

After that said event, I felt a bit freed from having to stay in Iligan for years now. It is time for a new adventure! It was like breaking monotony. I've indeed, started to put my best foot forward on this year.

And so back to reality, before the start of the class on June, I thought I was jobless but that was just for a few months since I got back to teaching at MTIM. They called me on the phone and hired me again after teaching for second semester last January. I never knew I'd be teaching now in MTIM for a year and a half already and it feels so good. I just hope they will offer me more units to teach not just the English subject but my forte per se, which is political science. During this year's event I've met so many faces and became close to them such as Safa and Seddik, who through, partly my influence, has become instructors also of the same College.

DK, Vienne, Joyce and Me at Manila Gateway.

Then on June to July, I together with some professors and law students, I went to Manila for the first time to attend the PBIEL Seminar. It was quite exciting for again, it was another first time for me to travel the capital city of the country. It was my first time to ride on an LRT/MRT. It was quite fun but dangerous at the same time since alot of people are on the train and I think it's where most snatchers are looming to steal anything they could get taking advantage of the scenario. Oh well, new experience begets new friendship. I got really acquainted with the other law students and learned something from the seminar as well. Again, freedom is here to stay! Plus, it was also the time when my mother bought me a netbook for the sake of this seminar. It was pure heaven! Haha! :))

Ate GM with my MKP buddies Glen, Zam and Raffy :)

On September, I met my sister in-law, Ate Gay Marie (GM). She's the wife of my brother Junjun. A true blue Davaoinian. She's also sabay like my Kuya (big bro). Though for her short stay here in Iligan, I've already learned to like her. We strolled her to some of the nice spots in Iligan with some of my closest friends. My family loved her for she reminds us of my elder brother. Soon enough will meet each other again with their lil angel. Hehe. It'll be another addition to our already big family. I can't wait! ;)

Still on September, it was also the month where Ate Anne got hitched with her long time boyfriend Kuya Gerald. Ate GM, my brother and I were invited but the lovers weren't here in the Philippines for they're still at Saudi so I had to act as their representative per se. Their motif was the color red - LOVE! I am with her other STAR-CM friends Ate Rose & Clint, Ate Jonalyn and the others of whom I forgot the name. Hehe. :)

Now here comes the month of October where I've been so preoccupied at law school. The horrors of Atty. Lanto's subject on partnership. Having to deal with assholes y' diablo disguised as human beings the moment I decided to run for school politics. Deym! May Lord God grant them forgiveness of whatever scornful things they've than and may they change for the better. This enriching experience have definitely warned me who to trust and who to stay away from. Poker-faced syndrome is a must and I have somehow managed to learn the art of it.

Also, to stray away from law books for awhile, I have decided to buy and to collect John Grisham books. It was another avenue to motivate me at law school. It was yet another influence to make me love more what I will soon become. At least I've had something to add in my very own bookshelves in my mini-library upstairs.

To continue the privilege of freedom given to me by my beloved mother, in the month of November, I have now joined the bar operations committee. Again. For. The First Time!!! Haha! I was with great people and being surrounded by them motivated me to push forward with life. I was again back in Manila and this was another great experience to treasure. It has helped me loved my soon to be profession, THAT MUCH. For I have quite figured out the small details about law school and those sorts of stuffs. It made me appreciate what I'll be doing soon as an administrator of justice, as a lawyer, of course.

Then all of a sudden, Sendong hits Iligan City on December. Just like that! The scary journey I had being an officer is that same feeling which drastically haunted me when alot of people died and many houses were damaged at dawn on December 17. It's was unbelievable. We never thought Iligan could experience such tragedy. It was the first ever that tons of casualties and properties have been juggernaut. Even my sisters who lived in Orchids Subdivision and in Lambaguhon have been victims of this tropical storm. I am just grateful to the Lord that they've survived this calamity. We could not imagine the things they have experience on that day the fact that seeing the aftermath of the flood was way beyond our expectations. It was an instant ghost town. Totally wiped out! We were hoping we could have celebrated my Dad's birthday on that day but what was to happen next was astonishing. Lives were taken and things that were in the way of Sendong were all destroyed in a blink of an eye. Dreams were crushed and hearts were crying.

But on a lighter note, "UNITY AMIDST DIVERSITY" occurred out of this unforgettable battle, whether due to Mother Natures wrath or be it a man-made calamity in itself. Iliganons and those from CDO received help and various donations from different parts in the country. We've witnessed the spirit of bayanihan irregardless of the fact that you are rich or poor, a Christian or a Muslim. There were no boundaries. Everyone even those who have been victims too have helped other victims. Therefore, making each of them a catalyst for positive change in the aforementioned cities.

Truly it is painful to see those people who have lost everything, whether material or losing a loved one. Others are up to now, still haven't found the missing bodies of their family members. I am just thankful that out of this unimaginable experience, my family is in good hands. And that a positive thing has happened because of this event. I've in the process, matured into another level. I have come into good terms with my sisters whom I haven't been in total contact with for the past months/years. The hatred inside my heart was also totally wiped off. That deep seated anger finally subsided. It felt like that burden I have carried for a long haul has now finally been unloaded.

Indeed, blood is thicker than water. I can say I now have peace of mind especially so that beginning today I am starting to rebuild the damaged relationship I had with them. Each of us may have our faults with each other but, if God can forgive the sinners then who am I not to forgive my own blood.

Sendong's wrath taught me a lot of lessons. I forgave. I loved. I cared. I was able to extend a helping hand to the victims by doing relief operations be it in my individual efforts or with the help of my colleagues at law school. It was my way of thanking God for saving my family through that raging storm. It feels like everything is renewed inside my heart. It felt like we just landed on a new territory while on board on Noah's ark. A new beginning awaits as we welcome the year 2012.

When Sendong left Philippines, the hatred I've felt begins to vanish into oblivion and the secrets I've carefully concealed for years have now been let out of the bag. I've managed to open my secrets to my mother when it comes to matters of the heart. It felt great. I felt light. I felt so open. I felt so safe. It was freedom. It was amazing to have shared my emotions with my mother now that she gave me the permission to be in a relationship for my 22 years of existence. Haha! I am a bit pressured but I'll just go with the flow. Only God knows what my fate will be. I lay it all in His Glory.

And ow, since we're talking a lil about my lovelife here, then maybe an old flame can be possibly rekindled? Haha. THAT I have yet to discover as 2012 unfolds. Question is, "Will this year of the water dragon be in favor of my soon to be blossoming lovelife? Or will it stop me from a terrible heartache?" It remains to be unknown. I am scared but again, together, let's find out. Hang on tight, you! It'll be another roller-coaster ride for us. Hehe. ♥ =)

By the way, Happy New Year! Happy New You! :)

Tangerine Tango for 2012!

2011-12-31T22:30:00.000+08:00

Hours before welcoming 2012, me and my pamangkins went shopping for later's preparation for the party and foods. When we went to a certain department store, I took the liberty of looking at this cute piggy bank and I thought it's about time I have to save money. Haha! I bought it and what was even more surprising is that it is colored tangerine tango which is said to be the color for this year. Definitely an optimistic color to boost ones energy, to recharge and move forward.

Experts at Pantone Color Institute, the color itself does not only symbolize vitality but it is also about urgency and strength. The color itself is all about being hopeful and optimistic which I find very interesting for it resonates with the kind of attitude I adore. I know the year 2012 is going to be a really mind-blowing ride but the vivaciousness of the reddish-orange and warmth brought about by yellow forming this years color is already getting me excited ;) To begin with, let me introduce you to my beloved piggy bank with a touch of tangerine tango of course. Haha!

Oinkieeeee!!

Joshua's Order: Mango Float

2011-12-26T14:02:00.000+08:00

My six year old very chubby nephew asked me to cook for him some mango float like all of a sudden. It was even before Christmas day that he repeatedly asked me to make one and so I did. It's been a long time since I have been into cooking and so I tried this simple dessert for my pamangkins (nephews & nieces).

Mango float is also one of my favorite desserts to eat and make since it's easy to do so. It's quite famous in the Filipino delicacy and it definitely caught my taste buds the fact that it's really sweet and creamy. I remembered eating this when my eldest sister made one way back a long time ago right after I also ate Window Cathedral dessert. I thought my sister bought it in a very expensive resto but actually I was surprised to know she actually made it.

To make this delicious dessert all you need to have is a 200 gram Graham crackers, 2 cups all purpose cream, 2 cups condensed milk, and three large ripe and sweet mangoes. Then when all ingredients are ready what you need to do next is to thinly slice the mangoes, mix thoroughly the all purpose cream and condensed milk in a bowl. Once it is done, in a square glass pan or any other square container you have to thinly make a layer of some of the cream and condensed milk mixture as well as the Graham crackers and then on top of it is another layer of delicious mixed creams and mangoes and so on. Once it's done, you can have the top layer any design you like be it this one:

Perhaps this one:

Or maybe this:

The way to style your mango float dessert is, well, sky is the limit! Hehe :)

Here's my version of it and it was all eaten in an instant. Loved it!

Bagyong Sendong

2011-12-17T00:47:00.000+08:00

Signal number 1 hits here in Mindanao! A thick knot hits deep in my stomach. I felt so scared. My heart stopped for a moment and my lungs skip a breath. This is the first time in the longest time that I've experience a storm invading our little City. I could not remember the last time we've experienced this intense kind of weather. Rains pouring down on our rooftops like bullets fired in armalite rifles and the winds gushing so damn hard as if the roof is about to fly. Lights flickering on and off just like in a horror movie and the environment is freezing cold. It's been raining so hard for hours now and my mind races sporadically of the possibility that sooner or later the lights will die out since my internet connection unexpectedly got terminated (for the first time!) and maybe in a few hours we'll be flooded so bad all because of this surging tropical cyclone now turned into a full pledged typhoon. I feel so petrified. Now I am starting to feel neurotic but I gotta stay composed and vigilant.

My mom’s already asleep and I keep myself awake guarding the entire house for possible thieves looming just around the corner taking advantage of this kind of weather. I keep myself perky at dawn and prepared our emergency light, candles and matches just in case a power interruption happens. Just when I hit back on my netbook to make some coffee, the lights eventually died just as what I’ve expected. Now this is really bad. I tried calling my sisters who are a few miles from us but I cannot send a message through my cellphone for the Globe network itself crashed down and even the telephone lines too. All I can do is to pray for them that they are safe especially to those who are living near a creek. I can imagine the house floating, people sitting on their rooftops shouting for help or the worst case scenario, some people might be dead as Bagyong Sendong wrecks havoc at exactly 12 midnight.

The hours passed by slowly and the rain let up at dawn yet the electricity, internet and telephone lines are down. My brother from Jubail called me on my cellphone to ask if we’re okay and thankfully we’re safe for now but I am really praying for my sisters and their families to be safe and away from the flood and those sorts of stuffs.

My eyes eventually start to feel sleepy and I surrender to the muddled thoughts racing wildly through my mind and get on to bed. Then around 7 in the morning, we heard people talking in the streets about certain areas in Iligan being totally damaged and hundreds of people died. Since electricity was out and globe networks still down, we haven't had any updates from my sisters or what has happened outside our Subdivision. So when the people walking on the street mentioned many dead casualties at Bayug Orchids Home, Hinaplanon & Lambaguhon; our hearts beat fast. So mom visited where my sisters lived and thank God they are safe however their house and things are drastically damaged. I am just thankful to Jesus that my family is safe but I feel for those people who died and the families they left and to those who are still missing. No one thought this was ever gonna happen in the City of Waterfalls.

Almost a day passed by and still, the number of casualties are increasing and I could still hear the noise of ambulance racing from one place to another getting the dead bodies of those who became the unfortunate victims of Bagyong Sendong. Various pictures and videos of those victims showing the aftermath of this calamity were posted on Facebook and other social networking sites. Here are some of the pictures I saw from my FB account:

Photo Credits from Atty. Tanya Lat's FB

And thanks to these social networking sites because we are also able to update our families abroad of what is currently happening to their families back here in the Philippines. Some organizations too have helped raising funds and getting donations for the victims. I even volunteered to repack relief goods in less than 8 hours from now. I also plan to donate some used clothes especially for the little children. I'll be at the City Plaza and IIT gymnasium to assist those families who have nothing left of them except themselves. All their things, their house and car have been completely washed out. So me and some of my fellow law students decide to help these people the best that we can so that at least in our small efforts we have uplifted their souls to never lose hope and continue to fight, to live.

And may we pray for the eternal repose of those who have died and may those people who are missing shall be found soon. This could be the most tragic thing that's ever happened in Iligan City but through prayers, only He can help us, Jesus Christ, to keep us strong during these difficult times and to make things better just like before.

Suman, you like?

2011-12-15T08:41:00.000+08:00

It's another Filipino food that I love and we call it here Suman or rice cake. Of course, rice! It's the main staple for all Filipino's, I guess most Asian's can't live without rice on their tables for breakfast, lunch or dinner. We, the Filipino's consider a meal incomplete without rice in it. Even some snacks during siesta time such as Suman is made from glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk and is steamed in banana or young palm leaves.

Ang Suman. Bow. :)

Oily Suman. Hehe. Sarap!

Enjoying every bite of it. Nomnom. You like? Hehe :)

Among a variety of Filipino delicacies, Suman is a fave of mine. There are tons of ways on how to cook Suman in different provinces and places in Philippines. It's tasty and good for snack or for breakfast dipped in chocolate or sugar and milk coupled with hot coco for a cold morning here in the Philippines since it's Christmas time. Yep! Suman for breakfast and it'll be 9 days to go and it's Jesus's birthday. Weee!! I might buy Suman for dessert on our annual year end family reunion Christmas party.I can't wait! :)

Sweets love Water Buffalo

2011-12-14T16:25:00.000+08:00

Today I woke up quite late due to the still-irritating-menstrual-cramps but I am quite okay now especially after watching Bones Season 6 Episode 7 on Fox. I tried to relax myself after reading law books then I watched NCIS, CSI, Criminal Minds and now Bones. This episode totally caught my eye when Sweets mentioned he sponsored water buffalo in Philippines. Haha! I intently listened and keeping a wary eye to the scene where Sweets and Dr. Camille had a conversation about the latter being such a control freak on her daughter Michelle (Same name like mine. Hehe!) I was really looking forward to this because they look great together and they do have a thing for each other at least that's what I thought. So I took a snap shot of Sweets and the conversation they had which made me jumpy when he did mention my country.

Camille: Remind me again why I should listen to someone who doesn’t even take care of a pet?

Sweets: Right. *pause* I sponsor water buffalo in the Philippines.

Camille: And I supposed you wouldn't get in the way of her decisions?

Sweets: Oh, I wouldn't get in her way, period!

Aww. Mister Sweets! You just made my day!

Out of all the cast in Bones, he is my sorta crushie. I just love to look at him on the big screen. I didn't know you were fond of "carabaos"/water buffalo. :P

Being Strong

2011-12-11T15:51:00.000+08:00

It's tough being a female. How much more for those single mothers, with kids and a job. Imagine the sacrifice that it takes to say, going through body changes during puberty and even when pregnant and then facing the harsh reality of tending to the school finances of your kids especially for those single moms out there. That's why I have a solid respect for women who are "solo parenting" and juggling their careers at the same time. My mom may not be a solo parent but now that Dad died two years already, it was tough but I admire mom's being strong and dependable all the time. She thrives to survive everyday and makes it a point that me and my siblings are doing fine.

Just this week I was advised by my Doctor to take a rest for a few days since I was quite stressed and had an abnormal menstrual bleeding which is for me quite surprising for I haven't had that experience before. Crazy menstrual cramps a.k.a. dysmenorrhea and a little bit of headache stormed my entire week. I haven't gone to school for a few days but seeing mom trying to be strong for me all the time has inspired me to be well and get on with life. Her presence alone and her undying determination to survive has grown in to me. I mean I am always positive but this was the only time I got so weak. It was definitely one hellova week. Mom was sick at first and then now it's my turn to be ill. I don't know why this has happened but prolly because of the weather or just circumstantial.

Photo credits to Google

I already had a plan for this semester trying my desperate effort to make law school sound easy but this, the monthly "red visits" took a toll to my oh-so-positive-vibes. This being one of the dire consequence of being a woman is totally dragging me down. But being strong is the only choice I have to live for my family, for my friends, for myself and to see to it that I will be able to catch up with what I've missed at law school this week. Maybe there won't be classes by next week since it'll be the start of Christmas holiday but I am determined to finish this semester. I just need to rest for this week and gather enough strength for the upcoming bumpy road. For now, I gotta rest and deal with my own private lil war. When I am through with this then I am gonna huddle back to my glory days soon. I'll be back! :)

Shoutout!

2011-12-10T12:42:00.000+08:00

It's like FB. What's on your mind? Me and my best bud went wandering all over the University staring at those Christmas decors and stalls right after our class on Shariah, Public Corporation and Tax.1. The crazy girls that we are, we took out our ballpens and signed on this cutesy wall were there were colored papers plastered on it with written wishes and stuffs like that. I've even read there a note saying "Sana magkaroon na ako ng lovelife" (I hope I'll have my own lovelife soon) Haha! What a nice wishlist. We too have written something in it, wishing soon enough those wishes shall be granted in God's grace. Hopefully.♥ =)

Missed teh fun!

2011-12-10T10:17:00.001+08:00

Aaah.. I've really wanted to join today's judicial run but sadly they ran out of jersey's. It would have been perfect matched with my violet sneakers too. Not only was I bummed with the thought of not helping donate a few bucks but it would have been great that I attended since I loved the jersey design and I've had most of my colleagues at school attended this event and even my professors at law school as well as my fraternal brothers and sisters too. Sigh! Truly, I missed the fun. It would have been my first official experience on a running marathon. I did not lose carbs for not attending this judicial run. Oh well, there's always next times. I hope by next year I could attend some other fun run in Iligan City. Instead of feeling remorseful, I better read my book on Shariah 4 and Taxation. Gotta be at school before 1pm. Hoping for a Sunny Day! :)

Last Day Fashion at School

2011-12-09T13:45:00.000+08:00

Cheers to the freakin' weekend indeed. Haha! I can smell the holidays and I do believe that today would be the last day of school. So to make the best out of it, I have spiced up the day with a lil bit sultryness in my style of dressing. ;) So take a look at this. The typical fashion for law students like me and take note, ukay2x po yan lahat. You might be surprised sa price. Hehe. As in shocking, it only cost me 130 bucks. How cool is that? Check it out.

Coat from MAX & Co. & the flirty laced dress from STORY made in Korea.

;)

This fluffy shoes is from Duple and found it in the Ukay2x for a reasonable price. Me gusta ;)

So here it is when dressed. I've be smokin' in my class and my students would be like "Woo!" Hehe. It'll be the first time that they'll see me so formal. Let's see who is gonna be stoked for today. Xoxo.
Haha!

Rainmaker

2011-12-09T03:16:00.000+08:00

It's been two years and I am thankful to have survived law school up to this very day. It is true that the life of a law student is definitely likened to that of a walk in the park but a JURASSIC PARK at that! You have to face not just reading piles of law books and cases but you also need to deal with notorious professors grinding you for three hours a day or perhaps 18 hours a week with questions of law as if you have already read the entire book. And what I mean about being questioned not in a polite way but more like interrogating you and putting you in the spotlight of shame if you will not be able to suffice their questions. They might laugh at you, ridicule you, shout at you or mentally and emotionally torture you in front of the entire class.

Now if you are full of pride and half-hearted to start or even continue law school then, I suggest you stop and deliberately think about it over and over again if you wish to finish law school and how much are you willing to sacrifice to achieve that elite status of becoming a lawyer in the immediate future.

I have been in the crossroads but I never thought of wanting to stop studying law. Maybe I'll rest for one year but I will definitely be back to finish what I've started. That is the type of person I am. When I commit, I finish it until I get it. And until I become the best, I will never be satisfied not until I become a lawyer myself. Quite ambitious of me but this is how I want my attitude to be. Being confident but humble at the same time makes me feel so driven to reach for that ultimate goal soon. Here in law school, you learn to develop a thick face and in the process be emotionally stable if you really believe that you will soon become victorious in this regard.

Sometimes when my brain is quite crowded with too much provisions of the law, I sometimes sing a lot or play my piano or even update my blog. These are just some of the things that makes me oblivious for awhile of the things I do at law school.

Right now, I am mastering to memorize sections from the negotiable instruments law. So far I am doing good with my speed, memory and review.

Although I am not a full time student but I make it a point to read the book every chance I get. I was actually disappointed last time's oral recitation on secured transaction because I wasn't able to read and memorize the provisions by heart that's why I said "pass" for now but I will have my revenge soon. Muhaha! So now I am up 2:25AM ain't sleepy and shall be reading the book on Nego once I am done with this update from my blog. Here's my face or the usual me every study session I could get at dawn since I am a crazy insomniac:

Oh well, being a law student, a teacher and an officer of the student council is quite a challenge. You mix your life with politics and if you are not that good in budgeting your time you might be slumped low on your studies and that is not good at all. I have my fears and disappointments entering school politics but I know it is natural that you make enemies too in law school. It is true that as an officer the constituents particularly your detractors only see the bad deeds you've done and will never try to commend what good works you have accomplished. Like I said, I have never been into politics before and although I have despised some people that I consider good friends before but I never thought they'd be the ones to destroy me. Spreading rumors that were never in fact true in the first place definitely broke my heart.They have toyed me with the idea that I am this bad and that worst of a person.

But I am still thankful to Jesus that I have experienced this for once in my life because I believe that through this I would know who among the people have treated me well and isn't pretending to be my friend. I may be a rookie in the SLSC but I have never pretended and have done my job honestly being the treasurer of the College of Law.

John Grisham was right when he wrote in his book entitled "The Rainmaker" that:

You make enemies in law school. The competition can be vicious. People learn how to cheat and backstab; it's training for the real world.

But I try not to hate people who I know have been two-faced when merely talking to me. It has indeed challenged me from the very first day I took an oath of being an SLSC officer. Patience, commitment and passion are just some of the values I have learned in the process. May this help me make it through finishing law school and finally take the bar exam then successfully pass it. May God bless me more :)

Out of the old and in for the new :)

2011-12-08T14:52:00.000+08:00

I've been spring cleaning my room or the entire house today to make way for a bigger space more particularly in my study room. Maybe because it's the end of the year 2011 and I am about to jump start another challenging year ahead. Or is it because since it's the rainy season and it is time for mosquitoes to procreate. Damn! I really need to get rid of some stuffs because I've had quite a number of mosquito bites already. Not good to look at and definitely alarming for my health since I've had a history on dengue fever.

So in order for me to keep myself busy & healthy, I've decided to choose which of my things are of no use to me or that I just used once or twice and never planned of using it again. I must get rid of these things for it has also become the looming place for these freakin' mosquitoes. Argh! Thus, I have to distinctly choose which of my oh-so-piled-up-like-a-mountain of dresses, shoes, bags, etc. shall be thrown out of my closet so that I'll have these things lined up for a garage sale.

In the Pinoy dialect, we call the act of starting a garage sale as "ukay-ukay". It's pretty rampant here in my place and I've used my creativeness so as to clean the entire room and sell it to get some cold cash and buy more sensible things especially so that it'll my Dad's 77th birthday and I've got tons of gifts to buy for my family and for the upcoming exchanging gift at law school on our Christmas party this weekend. Not to mention the year end party also with my MKP family. Hehe.

Feast your eyes on the few pictures I took. This is the opening day of my "ukay-ukay" and I thought it would be better if I called up my sister and do place her collection of wedding dresses, Filipiniana's, Barong Tagalog, Cocktail Dresses, and Toga's too since she has a business for renting the latter. Of course, I'll get a few percentage too. Haha! So here I am again, the business-oriented me.. :))

And of course, don't forget to include my ever-loyal bodyguard on duty.. tadaaaaaaaan!!

Introducing one of my two pet dogs but in a chain coz he might bite my customers. He's not too friendly to people he hasn't encountered quite a few times. Oh, say hi to Beckham! Haha. The other dog who is also my love other than Beckham is way cuter than the latter. Becks is purely askal while the other one, Alejandro is quite a mestizo. I dunno what breed of dog Ale is but he's really cute and very malambing. I have two male dogs who are my buddies at home. I named them after famous personalities, of course, David Beckham my fave soccer player and Alejandro from Boyce Avenue who is my favorite musician among the Manzano brothers Daniel and Fabian. Hehe.

Well, everything went fine and I had garnered quite a few bucks in this unplanned business. LOL! Until tomorrow then. Tata! :)

Bikini & Blue Martini

2011-12-05T14:23:00.000+08:00

Surprised to have seen new sets of nail polish from our suki na manicurista na si Ate Zabeth. Gone through her collection and I thought of trying neon colors for this month on my nails. I was brave enough to attempt flashy colors on my nails for it would look quite overwhelming but after seeing the output I realized "Bikini & Blue Martini's" are not bad at all. Check this one out: ;)

Tatay's 2nd Year Death Anniversary

2011-12-01T10:36:00.000+08:00

Today holds a celebration for my dad since this is the second year I remembered how God took him from us. I don't really understand even up to now why we have to celebrate his death anniversary. I do not understand the logic why we celebrate the loss of someone dear to our hearts. It seems like there is a certain quaintness to that thought alone. I would always mourn for for his death and remembered what heartache I experienced every December first at 6:15pm.

I asked my mom why we had to celebrate it and she said it's one way of remembering Dad every December. It's in every Christian tradition practiced for years so that those loved ones who passed away will be happy that they have been remembered even after their death.

To my Dad, no one knows where you are but I believe you are now safe in the palace of Jesus Christ. To me and the people who loved you especially your family, we missed you so much. You have been a very loving, responsible partner to mom and a dependable father of eight. You are the sweetest and the one whom the family should be thankful for, for if not for you, mom and the rest of the family won't be here on earth and finished studying. If you haven't been strict to us when it comes to boys, courtship and some other stuffs, we would have married earlier on and face a great ordeal of problems brought about by early teenage pregnancy or those sorts of stuffs. We are thankful for the upbringing you and Mom did for your children. Given that you had eight children is truly tough on the part of the parent financially. Thus, we are proud that you are our father! Love you Tay. I missed you so much.. <3 :)

11/11/11 I WAS ALIVE.

2011-11-21T09:42:00.000+08:00

I read online quite a few articles on the message behind November 11, 2011 11:11:11pm that bad things are gonna happen. And when I say bad, it's really chaos exhilarating! I mean you know, END OF THE WORLD THINGY! Holy crap, that would be the day I am scheduled to travel a trip bound to Manila for the bar operations. Damn! I told myself a day before this rumored apocalypse while packing my things that whatever happens I just wanna tell you guys I love you but who ever spread that bruhaha about "the end of the world" is a schmuck because I am still alive today. Waa!! :p

But still, whether it's the end of the world tomorrow or the following day, we should be prepared for that most awaited moment for it shall be the judgment day where all sinners are judged from the life they had here on earth.

Therefore, love and forgive any chance you could get and never keep a deep-seated anger for someone. While we are still safe and living, we should show respect to other people even if they despise us. We have to express affection to people around us coz this life we have is only God-given and any time now He alone shall have the right to take it.

Life is short, make the most out of it! Be good and good karma shall be heading your way. Do good deeds while we still breathe the air and be the someone others consider sunshine in their lonely life. You'll never know how much you've changed others for the better of how kind-spirited and optimistic you are. Radiate positivity to others and good things will be boomeranged at yah! :)

The Bar Operations 2011 Experience: Day 4

2011-11-15T15:15:00.000+08:00

"All our bags are packed and we're ready to go.."

Definitely humming this song silently in my head on the day that we're going back to Iligan City leaving behind great memories and two of our colleagues, Seddik and Bibbo kay extended man sila and it was okay coz classes didn't officially started yet.

We would have planned to go on book hunting at Recto right before we head back to our hometown. You know sulitin pa talaga ang stay in Manila since Recto is just a walking distance lang din naman sa Park Royal. Sabi kasi nila Seddik that law books are sold their 75% off its original price although second hand books but still in great condition naman. It would have been great since I still have enough money to buy law books. It's a perfect time kasi classes haven't started but we didn't really went na lang since we got tired na rin. Imagine na nag-overnight kasi sa room singing karaoke via my netbook. Haha! Unfair din coz Father Lily didn't sang along with me, Bibbo and Ate Ann. So bad! Hehe or sadyang mahiyain lang talaga si Jenric. Waa!

Anyway, our flight was at 4pm pa naman so we had time to prepare our things, clean the room and throw a send off party with some of the baristas namely Brod Abet and Kuya Marko from Clan. We ordered pizza from Yellow cab, had some drinks, talked and laughed right before we went to NAIA III terminal. Here's some of the pix:

Yang naka-red si Ate Mona. Isa sa may-ari ng Park Royal.

Si Bibbo calling Yellow Cab to deliver pizza.

Galit ata ah? Hehe :P

First time eating yellow cab. Masarap xa in fairness. Ang spicy ng pizza. Love it! :)

Oh yeah! Sarap :)

With Kuya Abet and Kuya Marko :)

On our way to NAIA III.

Father Lily eating his sandwich. Snack2x kasi ang mahal ng foods sa plane. Hehe.

Some sola to freshen up and heal my throat. I love this drink ;)

Excited to be back home and hug my mom. I miss her big time :) <3

Finally landed at Lumbia Airport, CDO. Father Lily getting the baggage.
Two more hours and we'll be be home in no time. Hehe.

Raining outside but happy to have safely landed back in Mindanao :)

I'll forever miss my batch of bar operators. It was one great experience and I am happy to have been a part of the Justikan family. Once in a lifetime you'll get to meet people that share the same sentiments you have in one way or another and that you are comfortable having them around. Till next time tayo na ang servan ng mga bar operators. Inshallah we will be taking the bar very soon and eventually pass the bar exam. <3 :)

Gala-gala sa MOA

2011-11-14T15:46:00.000+08:00

It is my third time in Manila this year. Usually the rest of my immediate family most especially my father who if still alive today would never permit me to go to Manila without any chaperon. Since I have won the position as treasurer in the Supreme Law Student Council of the College of Law this year, I have been exposed to travelling.

Like I said, it was my first time to travel without any family relative at Bukidnon for the ALSP convention and then the PBIEL in Manila and now the bar operations. It is indeed a very liberating thing to do the fact that you get to be on your own miles away from your family. Thus, respect and trust has to be built up and I've learned a lot in my journey as an officer in SLSC. I admit there are tons of things I've encountered that has truly measured how long my patience could go. I have dealt with people with different personalities. Believe me, yong tipong sarap sapakin na mga klaseng tao. Yong naninira, yong walang pakialam or yong tarantado lang talaga. Their presence alone was what I've expected already. They challenge me to challenge myself even more. These experience have definitely molded my personality to become a strong woman in the long run.

I must admit, "politicking" is not in my dictionary but since I do this for the love of my MKP family I am also looking at it on a lighter note for serving my co-law students is my passion too. Given the optimistic personality I have, I see this experience as a journey worth the risk. I see this as a blessing from God and to know who among the real friends I have right now who are willing to help me through it all. This experience has made me realized bunch of things and I am thankful to God for that, for just about everything.

Anyway, I don't remember strolling at MOA (Mall of Asia) last June or July during my first visit here in Manila and so this could be my first time to have strolled in the said place. Everything is a first time for me here in the Capital City. I guess this was the place where my favorite band, BOYCE AVENUE had their first concert in Pinas way back to 2009 I think. And I was kinda giddy when my team of bar operators wanted to go to MOA.

On our way there I saw the Rizal Park and Baywalk. I have yet to discover Manila and its provinces too. So many things I don't know yet and haven't had the pleasure of visiting the entire Philippines. Truly, I have tons of things to catch up to know the country I was born to.If I have the money I would really travel the whole country the fact that I am still in my youth and have enough time roaming the Philippines.

So my Justikan family except Seddik because he had to go visit his auntie at Pasig, the four of us ventured to MOA. We ate at KFC, went to the different stores and bought pasalubongs and just went shopping and some sight-seeing. What was really not a good thing about this adventure was forgetting to bring along a camera and my cellphone was not fully charged therefore it could not take pictures. But we still managed to take a few pictures using Ate Ann's cellphone. Thank God for that! Hehe. So here are the pix we took before the cellphone died, Haha!:

Pimping ride :D

So liking this car. I love vintage stuffs. :)

With Bumble-bee :D

Our tig-karga sa mga Krispy Kreme's :D Really had a great time with them after the car show and suroy2x. I hope to really have them as my colleagues next time soon for the bar operations. These moments definitely rock my socks :)

It was a great day. In fact the baristas wanted to visit us and invited us to hang out after the exam but we were too tired to go out any longer. We actually planned to go on and have a good time for videoke but instead we used our oh-so creative minds to log on to Youtube and searched for videoke songs and sang our heart out loud. It's a good thing we haven't disturbed the other room and it didn't rain that night. Or else we are to blame na magbaha na pud ang Manila. LOL! I guess we slept around 3am not minding our flight the next day. Sinusulit ang moments talaga in Manila. :)

The Bar Operations 2011 Experience: Day 3

2011-11-14T13:29:00.000+08:00

This is it! The big day has finally arrived and this is something really exciting, scary and a heart-pounding day for all the bar candidates. It'll be the first ever MCQ bar exam in the land which is more likely an experimental thing. I hope the outcome of this shall be favorable to all baristas in Mindanao particularly in the MSU system. We need to get lots of bar passers as much as possible for this year and all the more for the following years to come. Because whether we like it or not, our passing rate has become so alarming that if we fail to produce more passers then we fear that the entire MSU system will be closed down especially here in Iligan which is only an extension class of Marawi.

Thus, we pray that many will succeed. So here are our adventures captured and frozen in memory through pictures. Check it out:

Posing at Gates 1A, 2 & 3 of the University of Santo Tomas. Guess who we bumped in to? Haha. Daddy Mocks & Brod Saudi. I just love the color combination of their tees. Such happy colors :) In my team, I was paired with Brod Seddik for Gate 3, Te Anne and Jenric for Gate 2 and Bibbo assigned at Gate 1A. So early around 7am we had to be there to distribute breakfast, tips & kits for the baristas. We've seen a lot of the baristas in a hurry to be inside the campus. Hugged and bid our words of wisdom 'God bless!',"Good luck!" and all the well wishes. We even got a text from one of them who needed our assistance since he's had a tummy ache that moment. Damn! The pressure in on! I wonder how my body would react if I am in their shoes already. Will I get a fever, headache or disturbed stomach? Hmn.. hope not! Definitely needing the mental, spiritual and emotional stability like one of my professors in law school would always remind us. Gotta practice that and I did from the first day at law school :)

Hiking! We were at P.Campa then off we go to UST. We took more or less 50 foods for breakfast para sa mga barista sponsored by AMAL. We have actually collaborated with the Association of Muslim Advocates of Law and it was an amazing thing that they too have rendered their full support to baristas whether Maranao or not.

Si Totoy Bibbo ay hindi na maxadong bibo. Jk! We still laughed and had a great time kahit na pagod. Still, we gotta rest for a bit at Mini-Stop. Masyadong mainit kahit na early pa ng umaga. Oh-oh! Global warming definitely sucks! Err..

Still has time looking at girls.. aww.. boys.. aw.. dili pud.. bitaw, hunting for books in a nearby bookstore. See those white plastic bags? Those are for our beloved bar candidates breakfast. In it are medicines, mineral water, banana and rice with a big chunk of barbecued chicken. Nomnom! :P

Well, picture2x! Hehe. :)

Only one kit left. Haha. Marami din naman kaming nabigyan ng breakfast. So happy to have seen some of my friends and fraternal brods and sis taking the bar right now. All the sunny smiles, the hugs and compliments from them made our day extra special. Nothing beats the appreciation you get after a days hard work :)

I am so loving the tshirt design. Pretty nice, huh? :)

Since the gates at UST will be closed at 9:30AM, my team decided to go back to our place and rest for a bit and be back for the distribution of lunch. Me and Ate Anne had time to rest then clean up the room while the boys went out and watch the Marquez-Pacquiao fight from a neighbor. Dili ra diay kaayo bayot ug kalag ako mga kuyog. Somehow, 25% lalaki pa rin. LOL! Haha. After seeing the whole fight and celebrating for Pacquiao's triumph, the boys came back and this is how they look during our free time on Sunday:

Si Father Lily, galit? Haha. Too tired to smile na. Or was pretending he was a model at Park Royal, I guess. Haha! Jk!

Oh ayan, si Bibbo parang di mapakali. His urge for charitable work is out and about again. Dahil sa gusto naming kaibiganin mga staff ng Park Royal, some of the extra foods we had for breakfast, we gave it to the staff. Dba how thoughtful and friendly of Bibbo. Justikan ka jud! Haha!

Mga gutom talaga. Ang laki ng mga kain ng mga mokong na eto :D Naka-dalawang pack ng breakfast ah. Lupet! Hehe.

Ang burlesque queen :D

Oy, ang sweet! Haha :D

Hindi naman maxadong malaki tyan mo Father. Pwede ka pa mag-pole dancing. Sideline, bah! :D

Ang cute naman kumain ni Totoy Bibbo. Ka-chicks! Haha!

Ang cleavage, bongga! Haha.

Ito yong masisilip naman from outside. I am gonna miss this place :)

Our breakfast too. Kaso di q type ang chicken. Masyadong malaki. Haha. Bitaw, not really that tasty.

Pero si Seddik ninanamnam talaga ang food. :P

At heto ang bagsak. Tulog na tulog. We only have 2 hours to rest lang kase and after that, we're back in the game.

Si Bibbo, busy sa pag-arrange ng mga equipments at mga sobra sobrang medicines. Bait talaga! Hehe.

At si Father Lily FB lang sa. :)

Two hours passed by and we're in our yellow shirts again heading to our MSU HQ at Espanya just a walking distance at UST Gate 11 where we will be distributing lunch for the MSUan baristas.

Taking pictures whilst walking heading our way towards UST Gate 11. The best ang weather as compared last week na sobrang lakas ng ulan daw at binabaha pa dito sa Dapitan, Espanya at Laon Laan.
Praise be to God for a sunny weather :)

At the MSU HQ. See those red big plastic bags? Mao pud na ang mga naa sa sulod na foods amo idistrobute for the baristas on their lunch time.

With Kuya Anto from MSU main, Ma'am Lala & Sir Alex sa MRO.

We're marching on! :D

Plastar na in front of UST Gate 11 :)

The roses among three not so-thorny :D

Taking pictures while Seddik was kind of chit-chatting with the MSUan's.

Ma-dramang totoy Bibbo :D

Sheyt, ang gwapo ni Kuya sa likod ah! Haha!

Maxadong guarded ang UST. Simula ng lumalabas mga barista for their lunch break. Todo bantay na si Manong Pulis.

Klase-klaseng mga frats at university representatives ang nakaabang sa labas ng Gate 11. May taga-DLSU, UP pati yong taga Utopia, Aquila Legis, MLQU (MKP Manila Branch), even mga sororities..

Busy maxado si Father Lily for video documentation. Hehe.

Since bawal ang tarps, gawa na lang kami ng identification na taga MSU kami using this cartolina. Saya-saya. Haha. Parang nagwewelga kami niyan. LOL!

Nakita ulet namin si Dad. At ang daming demands ah. Bilhan daw namin xa ng energy drink. Halaaa.. hehe..

A camera pose with Daddy Mockay :P

Talking to our MKP brods based here in Manila.

We were especially thankful for the voluntary help extended by Ate Donelle Khan to the second batch. It was highly appreciated. An additional man power to our group. Love it! Thanks Ate DK! :)

After the hard labor, we went back to our accomodation and took a rest ready for tonight's outing. Haha!

Pauwi na galing Gate 11. Hiking again :) Nakakawala ng fats!

Abangan ang susunod na kabanata... ;)

The Bar Operations 2011 Experience: Day 2

2011-11-13T14:27:00.000+08:00

On the second day was designated for the following tasks:

Visitation
Distribution of Palangkas, Bar Tips, Kits
Ocular Inspection

We woke up early on Saturday, prepared everything, did some mapping and slashed out those names in the list of bar candidates from MSU Iligan who have already been visited by the first batch of bar operators for this year so as to equally cater their needs and that we are going to be able to show to them our full support that this year's SLSC administration wants to achieve. In deed, despite the shortage in man power, we have in our humble efforts showed them the best to let them feel that we are here at their backs, ready to lend a hand.

Since we have already informed the baristas the other day that we will be visiting them the following day at least we are confident that those who have confirmed and agreed to be visited will know that we are coming to chit-chat for them for a few minutes, render to them those kits, the bar tips and palangkas which we brought along way back in Iligan City.

And the fact that I want them to recognize me and my team immediately, we decided to wear our tees during last semester's Consti week or any other shirt that would be easily register in the mind's of the bar candidates where they could see big, bold, printed word "MSU-ILIGAN". At least they will feel lightened up that students from the same school are in Manila to offer a helping hand.

Here are a few of the pictures we took on our second day stay in the capital city of Philippines:

Bibbo so flowery morning for u! Haha. Sleepy pa yata eh! We're packing it all in one saucy bag in the left. A kit encapsulated in it are medicines, biscuits, a canned espresso nescafe, candies, a pencil, sharpener and all together we will pair it with a bunch of bar tips and some palangkas per se.

CIA, serious mode kuno :D

Our cutesy yet heartily offered kit for all MSU Iligan bar candidates. ROCK THE BAR! :)

Pa-cute na naman early in the morning. Lupet niyo, teh! Hehe. I just love that we are wearing these tshirts. It only shows how united the second batch is. Oh yeah! :P

Ready to start the ball rolling, fellas? :P

What an adventure! Commuting enroute to UP to visit Ate Hazel. Grabeng shades, pre! :D

Ay bading na bading naman kung makatawa tong mga itetch. Hehe. Joke! Smiling japun maski alimuot ug sticky na ang feeling after visiting one baristar and the other and on and on. Unforgettable, indeed!

Picture taking while we were escorted by Ate Hazel going to UP College of Law.

Lapit na sa UP COL. Lupet talaga namin, picture ng picture. Grabeh! hehe..

Tenenenen!

JUSTIKAN TEAM. Hehe. :)

Now it may seem like isa lang nabisita namin na barista but in fact taas-taas jud among agi ana na adlaw. It just so happens that si Ate Hazel Jarraba lang ang mingsugot na picturan namo. Some other baristas don't like us to take pictures of them. Lalo na yong mga retakers. We do understand and respect that naman. Talking with Ate Hazel and the rest of the baristas only have one advice to give: "STUDY EVEN HARDER WHILE YOU CAN ESPECIALLY THE BASICS & YOU NEED TO READ CASES DAILY." It was definitely worth the sacrifice and it was one damn amazing experience jud! You'll definitely get the feel as if you are the one taking the bar exam. So inspiring and challenging for us five. ;)

After all the visitation we then took an ocular inspection within the inside premises of University of Santo Tomas.

This was UST's entrance prolly gate one out of fourteen gates. Imagine how colossal and how wide this place is. It's like a City already.

UST's church. Would have wanted to go inside but we were in a hurry. Hmn. Next time soon I'll visit the church :)

This was one great day. It is very overwhelming and the feeling of having to accomplish the said task for that day is fulfilling in the truest sense of it all. Hearing the barista's advices, seeing their faces light up when they saw us and letting them feel the support and unselfish dedication we render to them is one way of boosting their moral. It strengthen their confidence especially so that most of the law students in Mindanao are quite easily intimidated to those students in the NCR. That is the reason why we appreciate it all the more that we have helped them and to hear the word "THANK YOU" to all of us is enough to make us feel good kahit na gaguliyang na sa kaalimout ug kainit. Definitely worth everything we've risked for :)

Other than that, PRAYER is the one best thing that we can do to help them succeed in the first ever MCQ bar exam in Pinas.

Day 3: THE BIG DAY! WATCH FOR IT SOON.

The Bar Operations 2011 Experience: Day 1

2011-11-12T15:00:00.000+08:00

This has been my first time ever to experience as a bar operator and this was the only administration of the Supreme Law Student Council of MSU – College of Law Iligan Extension that I have witnessed a successful event of assisting the bar examinees. It’s where for four Sundays in the month of November, different batches of five law students coming from various fraternities, a wallance and an SLSC officer with one professor who will be delivering seminars or motivating speeches to help boost the morale of each of our barristers were sent to Manila.

During my four day stay at Manila in Park Royal Condotel, I have the most amazing experience for only this year that everything is neatly ironed and is worthy of calling itself as a real bar operations. Although the first batch of bar operators for this year had to undergo lots of challenging tasks especially dealing with the raging weather and more particularly the new sets of rules and regulations now that the bar exam is held in the University of Santo Tomas on the month of November and MCQ at that.

As you may all know, SC has already banned the so-called tradition of boisterous “bar operations” due to the post bar exam blast at DLSU. However, given the limited man power, I and the rest of the second batch were fortunate enough to have been blessed with a great sunny weather and everything was smooth sailing. We did the best that we could to do what we have to do as bar operators.

On Friday we had to prepare the kits that we will distribute during our visitation to each of the barristers for the following day. Enclosed in those kits were medicines, bar tips, coffee, candies, pencils, sharpeners and biscuits. We have also brought with us “palangkas” which are actually gifts addressed to some barristers where we personally delivered such as per request from their families and loved ones in Iligan City.

Meantime, on Saturday we have the whole day designated for visiting bar candidates who are staying far from the vicinity of UST. Then on Sunday we have collaborated with certain school and religious organizations such as the AMAL (Alliance of Muslim Advocates of Law) where they helped sponsor breakfast for our barristers be it Muslim or Non-Muslim and then we head on to the headquarters of MSU to get the lunch to be given to the barristers of the MSU system. Camaraderie and unity were formed between different fraternities and that of the College of Law in Marawi, General Santos and of Iligan.

Me and my second batch of bar operators namely big sis Annalyn Ancis who happens to be our team leader and who has the most experience among the five of us since me, Bibbo Domado, Jenric Garcia and Seddik Magadapa only experienced serving as a bar operator for the very first time this year. For every challenges we had to face we have also built friendship in the process. Indeed it was exciting, tiring but very overwhelming knowing that you have given your 100% support to the barristers during their most challenging time.

Seeing our barristers happy and what is even more rewarding is the thank you messages and calls we have received coming from the MSU Iligan barristers whether with a fraternity or not is definitely worth the sacrifice we’ve gone through this years bar operations. Reading those messages have cured all our weariness and in this experience alone, it has inspired us to do well at school while we still have time to study before facing the dreadful bar examination.

So here are a collection of pictures during the second sunday of bar operations/bar exam. A very tiring yet fun-filled activity for the five of us:

Day 1: Arrival, Packing for the Kits for the baristas, Preparing the Palangkas, Text Brigade/Info Dissemination :)

Our RIDE :)

Gotta have our belly's full. Having our brunch whilst waiting to board on plane.

Our team leader, ready to roll! (Unsa man na te Ann? Tan-aw ka listahan sa utang? Hehe!)

My awesome team! Mga masisipag at masayahin. I love my batch! Batch JUSTIKAN! :D

T'was my first time to have an evening flight bound to Manila. I was awestruck upon seeing the moon reflecting its shadow on the sea. It was a beautiful sight to see indeed. Makes me remember, I have to watch Breaking Dawn pala. Seen it too and it was totally rad! Looking forward for the second part of the movie. Although at the last part, when looking at Bella's face it was kinda creepy for she looks like Mrs. Addams but really freaked me out as she gained back her youth, her life.. (aaahh.. spoiler! :D)

Although my team was divided into two flights we were still in high spirits of what lies ahead of us for the following days in our stay in Manila. Whilst waiting for Seddik and Bibbo, we took pictures of people at NAIA III Terminal and at the same time looking for "vitamins sa mata". Haha! :D

The big man! Ang aming Tig. Ang pinakamamahal naming Mr. Kargador with a head dress. Hehe. Peace Jenric. I miss yah, dude :P

Getting our baggage.

Me and Ate Ann. A lil bit tired (or jet lagged?? hehe..) but still have to time to pose :) Pretty kami as always.
Oh-ha! Hehe.

Smile! :)

Finally,after more or less 30 minutes of waiting, Bibbo and Seddik arrived na rin. Tadaa! This is my team! The second batch of MSU-Iligan Bar Operators for 2011 Philippine Bar Exam. We call ourselves the JUSTIKAN team! (Mga bayot ug kalag ako mga sidekicks! Muhaha!)

So now we're waiting for our taxi. Like waiting for 1 or 2 hours LANG naman?? Err. This is so disappointing! Our terminal definitely deserved to be coined as "one of the worst airports in the world". It's like waiting for a thousand years before we arrive to our destination. Dang! Buti sana if may upuan, eh wala naman. Tsk! :(

Well anyway, let's get to know better about my team mates. So this is Mr. Jenric minus the "K" Garcia. Hehe. His Teehankee 2nd year law classmates call him "Father" kasi daw po he graduated sa simenaryo, hence the name "Father". But I call him "Father Lily" who happens to be the infamous hubby of the Filipino-Chinese movie producer "Mother Lily". Kidding. Haha! Still, he likes that so yeah, I am comfortable calling him that way and so does the whole team :D

And this is Mohamad Rayyan Domado, a classmate of Father Lily and they call this dude "Bibbo". I dunno why but maybe because magaling siyang sumayaw kaya Totoy Bibo?? Haha! Well, in my team we call him "HOiii"because he has this mannerism of stopping people from laughing so loud by throwing stabbing stares and reprimanding as such by saying to them "hoy!"in a cute way, NA LANG! :D Oh, by the way, siya ang pinakamalakas kumain sa grupo namin ng junk foods as shown in the picture. LOL!

Ito naman is Seddik Usman Magadapa and he's my fraternal brother sa Mu Kappa Phi. He's one year younger than me and super funny na tao. Sa tatlong guys, ito yong may pinaka-venomous ang pagkabayot ug kalag. Although he's not gay but when he acts and talks like homo's do, you might think of him as a member of the kapatiran ng mga bakla.. but nope! He's a certified male baka mapagalitan ako ng Egyptian na gf nya :D In our team, we call him "UMEEGHAT". I guess that smile plastered on his face is a proof that he is indeed a certified umeeghat or a flirt. Jk!

And this is my big sister Annalyn Ancis though not biologically related but we treat each other as do real sisters. She's our senior in the College of Law. She's very responsible, funny and umeeghat din like the rest of the team. Haha! We call her "Bosheet". For me, this branding of awkward names among each of us originally started with Bibbo and her and then the virus spread our drastically to the rest of the justikan team. :P

And of course, yours truly the fifth member of the JUSTIKAN FAMILY. They named me "harharhar" maybe because I am one of those who laugh the weirdest and the loudest. Hahahaha! Like any other team, we are also composed of wallances such as Bibbo and Jenric, fraternities Seddik and me for MKP while Ate Ann for CLAN and also at the same time, me as a representive of the member of the Supreme Law Student Council.

Killing the time as we are waiting for our taxi cab. That's how unorganized and traffic Manila is that we have to wait two hours just so that we can arrive at Park Royal Condotel. Amazing or shall I say, pathetic! ;/

We've experienced minor glitch or a misunderstanding with the Admin of the accomodation but thankfully things went well. We had to take our dinner almost 12midnight and while waiting for our food, we're wrapping give aways for the MSU-Iligan baristas for the following days visitation. We didn't mind our tired bodies instead we've laughed so hard and tried to finish the work fast so we could take some Zzzs and charge up for next day's adventure! :)

Such colorful paper bags so that the baristas can feel the Christmas breeze. Haha!

ROCK THE BAR! We were hoping to use this tarpaulin however due to changed venue for the bar exam and a new set of rules for this year, we weren't able to make use of this. Sigh! Bummer! :(

An attempt on printing for bar tips! :)

Picture2x! Haha :D

Father Lily thinking: "Hopefully ganito din sana ka maalaga ang mga bar operators if kami na in the immediate future ang magte-take ng bar exam. God-willing! " :)

Day 2: ABANGAN! :)

Day 08: A Picture of the Best Moment of Your Life.

2011-10-25T08:40:00.000+08:00

I could not count how many best moments in my life I have had. I have never tucked away those moments in my memory even the worst ones too because without the latter, life wouldn't be so complete and what would heaven be for without having to experience a little or so much of the bad things in life, right? We wouldn't appreciate the thought of living if everything is just for happiness and not being able to handle the predicaments every human being faces in life as a whole.

The fact that I have lived and I am still alive today is for me one of the best moments in my life already. To have such loving family is another, being able to with few but real good friends, to finish undergrad and proceeding law school are just some of the best moments in my life. It's hard for me to choose which one will it be.

But perhaps I would say it will be the moment when I traveled to Cebu for the first time with my brother and a few of his colleagues. I say it was the best moment not just because it was the first time in the longest time that I have traveled from another place aside from Iligan City. But it was the first time too that I had the experience of riding on an airplane and to go out with my political science batch mates at dawn in Cebu without any chaperon. Haha! I mean, what the hell! Life is too short not to try things and break from monotony for once. I think it's the essence of being free from the mundane life I have for 22 years that makes it worth considering to be a "best moment" in my life.

I thank my brother for that chance of traveling with him and having met new faces during their PICE (Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers) Convention in the said place. I was really excited to board on plane for the first time or travel by sea coz I could not remember anymore the last time I was on a ship or the thought that I've traveled to another place. It was like discovering everything from the very first day I began walking this planet.

For me, having that trip is a breath of fresh air clearing my already cluttered braincells from reading piles of books in law school. It was definitely a trip worth remembering. So here's a few of the pictures we took travelling Cebu most particularly when we went to the Taoist Temple:

From L-R (My big brother Jun, Me, Ate Rose & Kuya Ariel) All three are civil engineers :)

This is me with my biological brother. Missed him! He is now in Jubail working. Can't wait for him to come back to the Philippines. Hehe.

What big dragon, ey! Hehe. Totally feeling the Chinese aura. :P

Inscribed at the gate the words "Attain Holiness". I wish I am able to perfectly do that. :)

Entrance gate at Cebu's Taoist Temple.

At the top of TP viewing the whole City of Cebu. With us is a close friend of my brother who is Ate Anne.

Hinawak Mode! :D

At our back is China's own version of Italy's Trevi Fountain. Hope what I've wished for will come true, soon enough :)

At night time before we go back to Iligan City, I met with some of my political science friends and my best friend Meow2x. We took quite a few pictures after a karaoke session, going to McDo, bar hopping and went to Starbucks. So here it is:

Me, with my polsci buds Ian, Stef & Bes Meowy eating our midnight snack at McDo. Hehe.

My treat to them. It's been a long time! Hehe :P

The pretty girls rocking Cebu City! Haha. Bar hopping! It's a good thing my Kuya permitted me to go out very late in the evening. So happy! Freedom! Heheh :)

Ian's treat at Starbucks! ;)

We took a picture after our Karaoke session with my brothers friends. :)

My bestfriend Meowy! I hope to see her soon the next time I will visit the Queen City of the South.
I shall return. Hehe. :)

What makes this the best moment was not just the declaration of freedom or independence on my part but getting to have a vacay even for a few days, meeting new faces and reuniting with my old friends. Good times! :)

Food Trip: Spicy Beef Randang

2011-10-24T13:30:00.000+08:00

In the scorching heat of the sun this Monday morning, I am really buzzing in like a bee. So preoccupied with work being a teacher, an officer of a student council in law school and being a blogger. Haha! That having said I took my lunch way past 12 noon. Hooha! This is it.. but despite the busy life I still have enough time to enjoy doing some food trips like today's viand for lunch. Voila! Beef Randang. Spicy it is! Yumyum.. :D

Cotton Candy

2011-10-24T07:07:00.000+08:00

Mom and I went to church today and when it was finally time to go home I told her to give me five pesos coz I was curious of how that pink cotton candy tasted that that man was selling nearby. I know as a kid, every time we go to church my Dad or Mom would always buy us this, maybe an ice cream or fish ball. I really miss those days. The innocence. And the moments where I spend my time being with my Dad at Church and giving me extra money because Mom was too stingy. Hehe. But I miss my Dad. Two years passed by and still, I can't believe he is gone. Every now and then, every smallest detail would always remind me of him such as this cotton candy. It has been years that I haven't tasted it and so to quench my thirst for it, I got one and took a picture of the one who sold it although he's quite the shy type. Hehe.

Finally =)

Haha. Yumm-ey!

Nomnom! A sweet tooth like me is satisfied for the day. Until next food trip :D

Day 07: Something you love.

2011-10-24T04:43:00.000+08:00

Well, what one needs to know about me when it comes to music is that I love the original songs and covers made by BOYCE AVENUE. Since year 2009 up to now, I have been a hardcore fan of them. They're just awesome in what they do. I have yet to meet them personally maybe next year, god-willing :) If you wanna know what I am talking about, search them on facebook, twitter or you can have a look at their originals and cover songs. You better check 'em out ahora mismo. Here's their take of the song Faithfully by Journey. I've never really kinda liked the original but when they covered this song, I've had an LSS right then and there. Haha! Click here ayt now: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALph_u2iee8

Day 06: Your favorite quote, in your handwriting.

2011-10-23T12:21:00.000+08:00

Day 05: A place that makes you happy.

2011-10-22T02:05:00.000+08:00

Of course, like the old adage goes "there's no place like home" :)
Even if I get married someday soon, have kids and be with the man I love, there's always a place in my heart that can never be replaced - and that would be our home, the place where I grew up & molded me as the person I want to be. <3 ;)

Photo credits from Deviantart.com :)

Raiding the Bookshelves

2011-10-21T12:07:00.000+08:00

My bestfriend and I planned on bookhunting a few times already but failed to do so because of the weather which is constantly irritating me the fact that it's like examination month at law school and I don't really like this kind of weather because instead of studying I end up sleeping soundly in bed. Err.

But a part from the weather, Glenice and I are really busy with work too. So yeah, we didn't plan this afternoon for book hunting but fortunately the weather was kind to us and so out of the blue we decided to raid the bookshelves. I went ahead and while waiting for Glenice, I was already reading a bunch of Grisham's, Jink's and Robert Ludlum books.

It was one crazy afternoon having fun browsing all sorts of books of different genre with my bestfriend who also happens to love bookhunting more than I do. Although I love reading but she's actually one of the reasons why I am back into bookhunting. I haven't been doing this for quite a long long time already.

Anyway, here are just some of the books we looked at:

Now this one is funny and quite astonishing! It's the perfect book for those desperate in the love department. VOO-DOO! Haha. Now check out the next pic.

"Making a Lover Appear" Told yah! This one's such a creepy book with all the rituals, spells and other incantations. Could this be real? Will it work? Coz if it does I won't hesitate buying it. Maybe one of these days I'll try it on someone. Muhaha!! jk :D

This is an interesting book but I'd rather save money to purchase a book collection authored by John Grisham's. Can't wait to complete my own collection of his works. It would be awesome reading all of it. I mean, I've watched some of the films already but haven't read all of it yet in the books. So yeah, I am definitely looking forward to reading it all maybe this coming semestral break or during summer. :)

This is another creepy book. Dispelling vestigial fictions but really catchy title at that! I mean, I love these kinds of stories, crime scenes & solving cases such as "Mystery Case Files" kinda thingy or the Sherlock Holmes sorts of stuffs.

Ummn.. the title is different from what you're thinking.. this one's a good book.. it'll surprise you with what kind of A heart breaker the character is. Not the typical one. Unpredictable book,really..

Another case-solving story. I don't know if this was based on real life but I am totally digging the title and the vintage look..

Now this one really caught my eye. Not that I have the earnest desire to buy this one hell of a book. Haha! It's just that it's really intriguing and in one way or another I am kinda tempted to buy it maybe soon especially the white one. Ahaha XD

PORK! I am not a Muslim however I am not really fond of eating pork especially the oh-so-oily letchon. Me no likey but since my mom is quite a pork lover, I thought maybe I can cook something for her paired with vegetables. At least it would still be healthy for her instead of just plainly frying some pork. If I try to add some greens in it, the risk for high blood shall be lessened. Yah know, talking about healthy living.

This book kinda helps my already married siblings. My nieces and nephews are growing fast so I thought this book can be of great help for my brothers and sisters especially so that teenagers nowadays are quite hard to deal with.

But what I really wish for is to have all of John Grisham books. My eyes were darting all over the bookstore for some JG books all the time as well as books authored by Perri O'Shaughnessy. This day I bought "The Rainmaker" and I already have a copy of "The King of Torts" so I still have tons of JG books to collect and read thoroughly during my free time paired with hot coffee and snuggling my favorite apple green pillow while I am sitting on my rocking chair. That to me my friend, would be pure heaven. I could not ask for more.

So my partner in crime, Glenice ..

and I shall be clawing ourselves back in the book shelves

to find cheaper books which are still of good quality, hence the store name "Book Sale". Perhaps once we are done dealing with our final exams on business organization then we will surely be prancing our way back to the book store. We shall return even if at the very last minute we'll savor spending our time there just like we did to the point where the store was about to close down. Haha! We'll be back for sure! :)

Day 04

2011-10-21T06:30:00.000+08:00

A picture of yourself 10 years ago.

Hmn.. for this purpose I tried to bring back to life my 3n1 HQ printer whom I believe was a sleeping beauty for like almost a year already. Good thing I found the right driver and software to install it on my netbook. I just love the fact that my netbook is an HQ colored white; 10.2 high res paired with the white printer, scanner, photocopier of the same brand. Aren't they perfect for each other? Hehe.

So here's me, 10 years ago. I was like incoming sophomore high school student at that time. More likely I was about 13 years old. It was during our intramural sportsweek and we were all obliged to wear our P.E. uniforms *yeah, that one! super-yellow* and with me is quite an extended pompoms :D

Look at me! 10 years ago.. Muhaha. This is fun. Made me remember lots of beautiful things. Aah.. high school life. Where on earth are my classmates before? Are they still alive? What kinds of work do they have? Is my high school crush married already? Waa! Questions.. endless.. haven't contacted with these people yet. I hope we will soon be having our reunion like that of my other batches in my senior high school years. Miss them!

Day 03- Favorite book that you own.

2011-10-20T01:02:00.000+08:00

"365 Guidelines for Daily Living" by Harold J. Sala

This is from my Dad's. He's fond of reading books and before he died, this was the last book he read. He gave this to me and encouraged me to read it. He told me that whenever I feel discouraged, giving up or hurt.. the book will remind me to fight back for whatever challenges that lies ahead of me. It reminded me of him. The man who did everything he could to make all his children professionals and taught us to remain humble. He was the first man I loved so much. When I read the book, it feels like he is just beside me watching, protecting & guiding me all the way.

I haven't gone through all of his books but this one is so far my favorite. It's a very motivational book because there are biblical passages & inspiring stories designated for a short reading everyday. That's the reason why it's a guide to live your life to the fullest boosting your confidence and self-esteem on a mundane basis. Hence, the "365" in it. Hehe. :P

It has been almost two years now since the death of my father. I've read this book over and over again and it never fails me to bring back my fighting spirit whenever I lose hope or stressed so much. Thanks to you Tatay Doming.We will all be together soon with Mama Alming, my siblings & pamangkins.

But for now, I & the rest of the family have to finish our missions in life first just like what you have done. Your mission was indeed successful. You've raised us well & I know you led a happy life. We're so proud to have a father like you.

To me, YOU are a beacon of hope, indeed.

I'll be seeing you soon, Tay.

I love you ♥ :)

Book Hunting

2011-10-19T07:30:00.000+08:00

Everything has been quite stationary in my life. My daily routine would always be from home-work-school and vice versa. Although at times I may be invited by friends for a dinner treat, snack, shopping, looking for what’s new in the make up counters or perhaps a videoke-singko session but never those kinds of things where drinking hard liquor and dancing on bars kinda stuff. I am like I said, allergic to alcohol and I am not also comfortable being within the premises of these kinds of places. Doing those things I’ve mentioned above, except the latter, are what makes me forget some of the troubles that’s been bugging me. It is like a moment to break free from the mundane things a student does.

But what interests me alot these days since book stores have been available in the small City where I hail from, I am now addicted to book hunting. To be honest, I was kind of into reading books even novels when I was in my high school but when I entered the portals of college life, things changed especially now that I am taking another educational degree particularly in law. Things definitely change when you are in law school. Some priorities change over time.

I recently found out one of my comfort zones and book hunting was one of it. I thoroughly enjoyed being in the store, listening to my ipod and flipping through the pages of a book. Although it would have been better if I had to sip coffee but sadly, there’s not enough space putting inside the store a corner to sit, sip coffee and read. But the smell of the pages of the book, the ambiance and everything about it is what I can say one of the best moments of my life. Simple, you can say that. Yup! That’s me. Mababa lang ang aking kaligayahan. J

Book hunting to me now is a luxury and an addiction I like to spoil myself with. It gives me a sense of adventure and an open mind where I keep my senses stimulated. More like reflecting myself as one of the characters of those books whether be it about romance, suspense, sci fi or any other genre.

I just thought, I have been too keen in the virtual world. I barely can’t stand a day without updating my FB or twitter account and spent lots of hours staring at the monitor and stalking. Haha! Well, that is something I consider just now a disturbing thing for me. The more I drew myself to it, the more I neglect to appreciate reading books other than law books of course. I also fail to appreciate other small details in life because I am too damn busy browsing over my FB account or twitter per se. That my friend, for me, is one of the drawbacks of being a product of the computer-age-generation. We mind about other people’s lives and tryna update ourselves about their life through there statuses over FB. We have become too impulsive on things over the internet that we forgot about other important matters in life.

Thus, I decided that beginning today, I better focus more on enhancing my brain with lots of insights from a book rather than minding other people’s business via internet. Haha! I am in fact in the real world (not on the internet) not really the type of person that gossips a lot or takes a considerable amount of time to critique other people’s face, dress and those sorts of things. I don’t give a shit on those things. Although I might encounter these kinds of people but I drop the issue and then move on to other far more important things.

I believe that with this new addiction I have right now, it will be way better than going gaga over the internet. Book hunting for me not only radiates wise insights but as a Filipino, obviously not well-versed with the English language, by reading books I am able to enrich my grammar, sarcastically or not. LOL! This too, is for me, the beauty of reading foreign books.

So yeah, speaking of which, I will be out and about to raid the book shelves. So, catch ya later good people. Haha! J

Day 02 - A photo that makes you happy.

2011-10-19T03:11:00.000+08:00

I found this on a certain Tumblr account. First time I saw this I could not stop laughing. What a crazy Mona Lisa indeed. How creepy are those nails but I just love her lips! Pouty effect. Haha. :D

One Rainy Afternoon

2011-10-18T17:11:00.000+08:00

Nothing to do in this boring afternoon. A little bit tired from case digesting and reading the book on partnership for my final exam over the weekend. So to liven up my spirit, I had a pedicure whilst drinking hot coffee and munching butter flavored crackers. Yum!

Now tell me, does a nude color nail polish fit for my pretty nails? Hehe. Check it out!

BLESSED

2011-10-18T16:14:00.000+08:00

Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It is a very mean and nasty place and it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't how hard you hit; it's about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward. How much you can take, and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done. Now, if you know what you're worth, then go out and get what you're worth. But you gotta be willing to take the hit, and not pointing fingers saying you ain't where you are because of him, or her, or anybody. Cowards do that and that ain't you. You're better than that! -ROCKY BALBOA

Just gone through some of my favorite movies and I found this very motivating script from the movie ROCKY. I am quite a movie buff myself so yeah, most of the movies I watch is not just about love, romance or finding the right man but more of these sorts a part from sci-fi and John Grisham's. Hehe.

On this rainy day, via Facebook, I've read on a status from my fave radio station a question posted as to "WHAT'S YOU FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL/POSITIVE LINE FROM A MOVIE?" And voila! I thought about ROCKY. And this explains my post for today. That quote above which definitely jumpstarted my day from losing hope to thinking of kicking-some-ass-day :D

Ohh..days like these I really need some dose of inspiration. I know I am always an optimistic person but sometimes, humans as we are, it is quite inevitable that we feel down, hopeless and it felt like the world is against us.

But of course, we gotta get up and start living again.

As they say it, "habang may buhay, may pag-asa". It means as long as we are living, there is still hope. Hope that we can do it again, better and wiser for the second, third or fourth time. To hope for the best even if you are already drowned with tons of problems.

Just come to think of it, we are far more fortunate than those people living in Africa. We complain of the tasteless food we have on our plates, we complain of drinking water instead of alcohols or other beverages, we complain of not having internet connection and yet those kids in Africa don't have food, don't have enough water to drink and they don't even have the luxury of owning gadgets or get connected in the virtual world. These people are all starving and at the brink of dying.

That thought alone made me realize I am still blessed and that my problems are far lesser as compared to those people. To live for another day is already a blessing. To live for my family and to spend more time with them. To live for my dreams. To live for God.

I may not be able to help those people living in Africa financially but at least through this blog I am able to let other people realize that what they have right now, the problems that they face is far incomparable to what other people are suffering on the other side of the world right now.

All I can do perhaps is to pray for these people that they may survive this sad phenomena of their lives and that many organizations will be able to aid them in their needs to eat three times a day, to have comfortable clothes, to be blessed with education and to be in a safe place to live free from terrorism and other forms of violence.

Thus, this is my realization for today, I am still and will always be blessed by God. Come to think of it, on a lighter note, having these problems is one form of blessing too. It has helped me to develop my being strong-willed and the determination to face these problems as long as I am living.

So to DEAR LIFE:

I am not leaving here without a fight.

Sincerely,

DETERMINED :)

Day 01

2011-10-18T04:31:00.000+08:00

Day 01- A picture of yourself taken on the first day of the challenge with 15 facts about who you really are.

1. I am a big fan of Boyce Avenue.

2. At 10 years old, I won the "Fastest Ice-Cream on a Stick Eating Competition" in our place. #Proud :D

3. I hate pineapples (phobia, don't ask why!)

4. I love chili's or spicy foods.

5. I wanted to become a UN volunteer, big time! If only.. :/

6. Tuna pie is my all time favorite snack. Me gusta!

7. Now that I am 22, I just found out that I am allergic to hard liquors (honest!) Blame it on T-ice! Haha. If you offer me a drink, please forgive me if I can't take even a sip unless if you have with you a bunch of antihistamines. Hehe. But really, I DON'T drink :)

8. My blood type is AB.

9. I am near-sighted.

10. I am not a good cook, but I am learning. Hehe.

11. I still wear the gold ring given to me as a present by my sister when I was still in Grade 4. After 13 years, it's still in my hands. You can say that I am a KEEPER ♥ ;)

12. I can't freakin' whistle (bummer!)

13. I was born on Friday the 13th. Haha! Think twice before you do something stupid against me. (Be scared, be really scared!) LOL. But Karma will do the rest though. I am a firm believer of that. What goes around comes around, indeed. So, watch out!

14. Using my own money, I bought my very first Blackberry cellphone last year. Yey! <\;)

15. I had my first trip alone without any chaperon just this summer at Bukidnon for the ALSP (Association of Law Students of the Philippines) Mindanao Convention. Freedom! Haha :P Truly, to travel is a very liberating thing to do. In short, I ♥ traveling :)