Everyone of us has this awkward or maybe undesirable habit, but since we're already living in a society where the not-so-normal is more than welcome, let's just say such habit can add up to the personality which makes one even more interesting. We always have a thing or two in us that sets us apart from the norm. What's normal for us could be something others often dismiss as odd, weird, awkward or sometimes annoying. Everyone has quirks. Every. Freakin. One. And I believe no one is an exception to this rule.
Today I was told I am weird for dipping my instant pancit canton in a Pinakurat vinegar before eating it. Well, that's just one of the many things that make me weird, or I should say, unique. So today, I'd like to share with you a bunch of things that are perfectly normal for me which you may find pretty different, not normal, weird, or whatever you call it. And maybe uninteresting. And some items could strip off any respect you have for me. Haha. But for the sake of fun and telling the truth, I'll share it anyway. Here goes...
Today I was told I am weird for dipping my instant pancit canton in a Pinakurat vinegar before eating it. Well, that's just one of the many things that make me weird, or I should say, unique. So today, I'd like to share with you a bunch of things that are perfectly normal for me which you may find pretty different, not normal, weird, or whatever you call it. And maybe uninteresting. And some items could strip off any respect you have for me. Haha. But for the sake of fun and telling the truth, I'll share it anyway. Here goes...
Today, marks exactly one year since I first set foot into the corporate world. Time flies really fast when you get too preoccupied, with or without fun. I never even thought I'd survive a year in this dog-eat-dog world. But look! I'm still here, more alive than ever, typing out loud when I should be prepping for work.
365 days is too short, too fast, and too furious. Within that span of one year, I've lost some and gained some. Aside from the weight and acne scars, I have also gained knowledge, a new sport, friends, and love. I am really thankful that things happened the way they did. It molded me to what I am today - bug fixed and updated. Still under development; a work in progress trying to achieve how the Supreme Being designed me to be.
365 days is too short, too fast, and too furious. Within that span of one year, I've lost some and gained some. Aside from the weight and acne scars, I have also gained knowledge, a new sport, friends, and love. I am really thankful that things happened the way they did. It molded me to what I am today - bug fixed and updated. Still under development; a work in progress trying to achieve how the Supreme Being designed me to be.
I don't have a task right now and I've been spending my precious working hours trying to figure out what else can I do aside from researching-just-for-research-sake-because-i-have-nothing-else-to-do-kind-of-task. I am bored. Hence, time is running painfully slow. But who am I to complain? I get paid for this anyway.
I plugged my earphones in hopes that it can slowly kill boredom. Turned on Spotify's radio, chose a random station and to my surprise, it played Jamelia's Superstar. I was discreetly dancing in place. Head bobbing, feet moving, hands in motion but not too obvious for the boss to notice. I was trying to remember the steps when we danced this way back 2004.
For a beach bum like me, what's not to love living in Davao when after a stressful week at work and you feel like chilling by the beach on weekend, you just cross the sea and in a few minutes, bam! You're there.
I'm a sucker for beaches and everything else that comes with it. I remember the time when I was still a kid, I am always the first one to dip and last to get out of the water. No wonder I have this really toasted skin. I love the beach so much that almost everything I dreamed of has something to do with the beach.
Now you should know how hard it is for me that everyday I see the beautiful view of the sea and I can hear the waves rolling but I have to suffer, fighting the urge not to daydream about it so I can focus on my work instead. (sigh)
Well at least, last Saturday, my friends and I got the chance to have an escape at Isla Reta. This one's quite far though. It's an hour boat trip from Davao but the long ride does not matter for the place is really really beautiful.
I can say I've grown old for I'm no longer the same kid who's too excited to jump into the water and never get out of it. The water still excites me though. But going to the beach isn't just all about fun now. Just by the sight of the clear blue waters, or the smell of the sea, or the sound of the waves as it kisses the shore, gives a feeling of tranquility all over me - and this is something that we all need. Peace. To be finally away from the everyday hustle and bustle of life.
The sea looks like a thousand sparkling diamonds and just by looking at it puts me a step closer to heaven. I get lost to it as I breathe deeply in contentment and say "Ahh.. This. Is. Life."
I love the beach so much and if there's only one thing left to do, or if I only have a few days left to stay this world, I would definitely spend it well at the beach.
The recent Kadayawan festival was a blast. Not for all Davaoeños though, especially after Ramon Bautista made a remark "madaming hipon sa Davao". Which provoked the ire of some public officials and stirred netizens to rage.
Okay, I understand where all that hate is coming from. I get it, that was offensive. But if we were to look at it the other way, it shouldn't affect us, right? I mean, why do we allow people to demean or belittle us? Because just by reacting to that, we are just validating his claims. If it isn't true and we know for ourselves that it isn't true, then we can just brush it off our shoulders and move on. We know better. If we haven't made a big fuss out of it, the issue would have died down before Bautista could step down the stage.
Bautista said something that earned him one way ticket to public stoning. But he already expressed apology publicly. Isn't that enough? I think calling for persona non grata is just too much. And people are just overreacting way too much. Yes, I intended that redundancy.
Okay, I understand where all that hate is coming from. I get it, that was offensive. But if we were to look at it the other way, it shouldn't affect us, right? I mean, why do we allow people to demean or belittle us? Because just by reacting to that, we are just validating his claims. If it isn't true and we know for ourselves that it isn't true, then we can just brush it off our shoulders and move on. We know better. If we haven't made a big fuss out of it, the issue would have died down before Bautista could step down the stage.
Bautista said something that earned him one way ticket to public stoning. But he already expressed apology publicly. Isn't that enough? I think calling for persona non grata is just too much. And people are just overreacting way too much. Yes, I intended that redundancy.
I arrived home sleepy and my mind drifting. Went straight to a familiar door, turned the knob, put my bag down, removed my clothes and threw it carelessly on the bed, then I changed to my usual pambahay. I was about to throw myself to bed when I realized that I am not in my room.
Here's a glimpse of my room now. And I'm not sorry for the mess that I have just made. |
Whenever I tell people that I have never been to Starbucks, I always get that expression of disbelief. Now, that makes me feel like I am such a loser and I think the world thinks it's a crime or something. Hmmm.
Never been there nor tasted anything they have to offer. Okay, I'm not a coffee person to begin with, that's one. Two, I don't feel like I belong there. So why bother? And three, I can already buy at least three pre-loved books at BookSale for a price of one coffee.
I don't remember how long it has been since the first Starbucks in Davao opened. But I do remember the incredulous number of people on queue waiting for their turn to order on the first week of opening. Why?
I don't remember how long it has been since the first Starbucks in Davao opened. But I do remember the incredulous number of people on queue waiting for their turn to order on the first week of opening. Why?
This day didn't go very well. Seems like everybody and everything that surround me is testing my patience. I lost my cool; one more tic and I'd reach my boiling point. This day simply sucks. I want it to end so soon that I'm already looking forward to working on Monday.
But one message changed everything. Just one simple message from the boyfriend and it brightened my rather gloomy day. It wasn't even cheesy. It's just a simple and casual message. And just by that, I know he's thinking of me.
They said it's always nice to have someone in your life who can make you smile even when they're not around. I wouldn't disagree on that because it is absolutely true.
But one message changed everything. Just one simple message from the boyfriend and it brightened my rather gloomy day. It wasn't even cheesy. It's just a simple and casual message. And just by that, I know he's thinking of me.
They said it's always nice to have someone in your life who can make you smile even when they're not around. I wouldn't disagree on that because it is absolutely true.
I love the way you look at me, the way you make me laugh, the way you tell me to eat the last grain of rice on my plate, and for letting me eat food I've never tasted before. I love the way you randomly kiss me, the way you squeeze my love handles or massage my back. I love it when it rains because you would hold me very close to you while we share the same umbrella. I love it when you try to fight sleepiness despite being tired from the whole day's work just because you still want to spend more time with me. And yes, I can name more.
I wanted to go biking... with a twist: one that's placed on a cable that's suspended on air over 60 ft. Just that. Nothing exciting.
NOT!
It's something new and I was craving for something to pump up the adrenaline. It's been a long time since I felt the rush. I badly wanted to try it. So what Sarah wants, Sarah gets. Haha. Kidding.
Sunset Beach. December 30, 2013. |
I could not find the right words to express how I feel right now. Seems everything I will say is an understatement. I am happy. I really really really am.
Hey you, handsome man with a goatee... you are mine now. And I hope you are sure of what you're getting into because I won't be giving up on you easily. Hahaha. I love you.
Hey you, handsome man with a goatee... you are mine now. And I hope you are sure of what you're getting into because I won't be giving up on you easily. Hahaha. I love you.
I went to my old room upstairs. I wasn't sure why. Perhaps I just wanted to check how it looks now or maybe I was just looking for something to do. While randomly opening cabinets and rummaging old boxes, I was so surprised to find a thing that I've been looking for a long time. This:
An original VCD of one of my most favorite movies of all time, Forrest Gump. Take note, this is the only original VCD I have ever bought my entire life. And just so you know, it took me ages to save up for this. Php 399 is no joke for a college freshmen with no more than a hundred peso allowance daily, minus the fare that already took one-fifth of it, lunch money, and endless handouts to be photocopied. What's left is for my daily dose of street food and an hour of internet usage, to which I sacrificed all. It is worth it.
It's been a long time since Jan and I spent a long time together. And I'm really happy to be spending even just a little time with him. ^_^
MTS. Date. Sweet. Heaven by your side. With some friends. "Para maka round 2". Hearty laughter. Rain. Happy.
I am at my lowest point today. I lost my appetite, my motivation to work, and myself. I went to the office with very low spirits; unable to laugh at jokes, unable to hold a short conversation, unable to do anything right. And even those cheer-ups and pat-on-the-backs from my friends didn't work.
I smile to suppress whatever it is that I am feeling and for them not to notice it but my eyes say otherwise. The feeling's already too heavy to contain I was about to burst.
Thank God, there's Jan who was there for me even if he wasn't in his best condition. I wouldn't know how to cope if he wasn't there. Thank you Lord, for giving me a shoulder to cry on.
Jan, thanks again. I got your back, you got mine. Here's a song for you :)
I smile to suppress whatever it is that I am feeling and for them not to notice it but my eyes say otherwise. The feeling's already too heavy to contain I was about to burst.
Thank God, there's Jan who was there for me even if he wasn't in his best condition. I wouldn't know how to cope if he wasn't there. Thank you Lord, for giving me a shoulder to cry on.
Jan, thanks again. I got your back, you got mine. Here's a song for you :)
Fantasy you say?
I've been to Middle Earth, Hogwarts, Narnia, Westeros, Camp Half-blood, and to kingdoms far far away. I met wizards, kings, elves of all kinds, gods, arcanists, gracelings, mythical beings, hideous monsters, and creatures you cannot fathom.
I've rode on dragons, broom sticks, enchanted chariots, galleons, wagons of the nobility, white horses, and hippogriffs. I've witnessed alchemy, allomancy, wizardry, necromancy, numerous spells you can hardly speak, evil, death, and even love.
I survived bloody skirmishes, epic battles of gods, empires, and races, and dangerous quests to peculiar places you've never imagined. I've uncovered secrets, read manuscripts written in languages you've never heard of, unraveled mysteries, deciphered codes, and known the unknown.
I laughed, I cried, I staggered. I left the mundane world and emerged a hundred thousand words later, breathless and amazed.
Wow. I didn't realize I've travelled this much. :)
My fantasy shelf. Just don't mind those 3 other non-fantasy books there (if you happen to see it) |
A little conversation over Viber with someone special, not to mention, someone that I miss is more than enough to make my day. :)
Right now, I feel I am irrationally attracted to someone. And it is not just a mere form of sexual or romantic attraction. I know it runs deeper than that. There's a connection. A strong one at that. It feels like there's something in my core that inevitably, irresistibly, and inexplicably pushes me to connect with that person.
And that connection is the reason why from being a risk-taker I became too cautious because losing that connection is what scares me the most. On the other hand, if I don't take risks, I might end up losing what's already there.
I hate dilemmas. This is kinda hard. All my life I thought choosing what dress to wear is the hardest thing to decoide on. haha
And that connection is the reason why from being a risk-taker I became too cautious because losing that connection is what scares me the most. On the other hand, if I don't take risks, I might end up losing what's already there.
I hate dilemmas. This is kinda hard. All my life I thought choosing what dress to wear is the hardest thing to decoide on. haha
While commuting on my way home, I caught someone looking at me with a hint of smile in his eyes. Then I realized maybe he caught me in deep thought while staring blankly in an open space and then suddenly smiling from time to time. I may have looked crazy at that moment, but I can't help it. There are just simple things that can make me smile, and even just the thought of it can already make me happy.
If there's one thing life has taught me, it is to be thankful for the simplest and even the most ordinary things in life.
There's really no need to sprinkle on a little fancy or throw in flowery words to experience the extraordinary. Ordinary things can really be awesome sometimes.
Sharing ordinary moments with someone, like for example, having a simple but intimate conversation under a tree, or simply blurting out the same set of words simultaneously (this is a rare phenomenon and it is something to smile about hahaha), or simply talking about random things over a cup of coffee, or a simple holding of hands that can send shivers down your spine -- these are the kind of moments you (or I, for that matter) would love to hold, cherish and would tend to reminisce over and over.
I believe in simple acts, simple words, simple everything because they are, after all, the genuine ones; and nothing can beat something that is real. :)
If there's one thing life has taught me, it is to be thankful for the simplest and even the most ordinary things in life.
There's really no need to sprinkle on a little fancy or throw in flowery words to experience the extraordinary. Ordinary things can really be awesome sometimes.
Sharing ordinary moments with someone, like for example, having a simple but intimate conversation under a tree, or simply blurting out the same set of words simultaneously (this is a rare phenomenon and it is something to smile about hahaha), or simply talking about random things over a cup of coffee, or a simple holding of hands that can send shivers down your spine -- these are the kind of moments you (or I, for that matter) would love to hold, cherish and would tend to reminisce over and over.
I believe in simple acts, simple words, simple everything because they are, after all, the genuine ones; and nothing can beat something that is real. :)
Ecstatic.
That's exactly how I am feeling right now (and the past few days, of course!).
I never believed in chemistry (although it was one of my favorite subjects before). Chemistry, spark, compatibility, really? I was skeptic until I was the one who experienced it first-hand. Funny thing is, at 28, I never thought I'd feel this way. You know, just like the way you felt during those teeny weeny years when you got butterflies on your tummy. But this time, I know it is something more than that. Something more profound.
Bliss. And it is genuine.
Yeah, it feels good. No, it feels insanely great. And to say that, is an understatement.
That's exactly how I am feeling right now (and the past few days, of course!).
I never believed in chemistry (although it was one of my favorite subjects before). Chemistry, spark, compatibility, really? I was skeptic until I was the one who experienced it first-hand. Funny thing is, at 28, I never thought I'd feel this way. You know, just like the way you felt during those teeny weeny years when you got butterflies on your tummy. But this time, I know it is something more than that. Something more profound.
Bliss. And it is genuine.
Yeah, it feels good. No, it feels insanely great. And to say that, is an understatement.
I feel so blessed to have such friends who will be there for you through thick and thin, have seen your worst, to whom you can be absolutely stupid with, and who will slap you when they know you're doing something wrong. I do have a lot of friends, but only three cliques are really close to my heart to which I consider my family:
I'm not really in the mood to write about anything right now. But since our Seagull Mountain Resort was such an amazing adventure, it would be a crime if I let the days pass without sharing it. Because despite the deep sh*t I am into, I believe this is one of the best days of my life. :)
Seagull Mountain Resort Waterfalls |
Earlier, we played a game "Catch the Killer", where players can be a killer, a healer, or just a normal citizen. The citizens will have to investigate and guess who the killer is (and we can only guess by observing their reaction, what they say, or how they act - it's more like a psychological game). I won three times in a row of being a killer. Not that I have a mind of a killer. But they said I have this game face on, a poker face. They can never tell.
I guess that's what I'm really good at. You know, hiding how I truly feel. People see me happy. And I know I just feign it. I can never lie to myself. When alone, I drown in tears and pretend like everything's okay the next day. I may seem to look happy but I still feel that sting, a pang of fear, uncertainty, anger, and remorse all rolled into one. Beyond the laughs I feel pain. And not even the loudest laughter can suppress it, not from me at least anyway.
So this is how it feels when you've just given up. This is how a heartbreak feels. The pain is just so real. How am I surviving this? Do you know the line just fake it until you make it? Well, I think it's working pretty well for me. And I hope I can get through this in one piece.
Anyway, sorry for the short pathetic post. Shit happens and I just needed to vent.
P.S. I'm not a pathetic-emo-looking-damsel-in-distress, I still flash a smile despite being in the pits, and that for sure is the only thing that's remaining genuine right now. :)
I guess that's what I'm really good at. You know, hiding how I truly feel. People see me happy. And I know I just feign it. I can never lie to myself. When alone, I drown in tears and pretend like everything's okay the next day. I may seem to look happy but I still feel that sting, a pang of fear, uncertainty, anger, and remorse all rolled into one. Beyond the laughs I feel pain. And not even the loudest laughter can suppress it, not from me at least anyway.
So this is how it feels when you've just given up. This is how a heartbreak feels. The pain is just so real. How am I surviving this? Do you know the line just fake it until you make it? Well, I think it's working pretty well for me. And I hope I can get through this in one piece.
Anyway, sorry for the short pathetic post. Shit happens and I just needed to vent.
P.S. I'm not a pathetic-emo-looking-damsel-in-distress, I still flash a smile despite being in the pits, and that for sure is the only thing that's remaining genuine right now. :)
I remember the time during a long bus ride from Gensan to Davao, I had this great conversation with a friend. And among all the things we have talked about, there's this one line he uttered that struck me the most which now became one of my life's mantra: Look on the bright side.
I've heard this line a thousand times before but I never really took it by heart until I'm the one sinking in deep shit. It got me thinking, why I linger on the negative when I can just look at the positive side and head towards that direction?
Yes I know, it's easier said than done. But there's no harm in trying, right? So to fully embrace that line and learn how to turn lemons into lemonade, I'm starting with small steps that will eventually lead me to see lifein a positive way—which you may find helpful too. So here's to a good one:
I've heard this line a thousand times before but I never really took it by heart until I'm the one sinking in deep shit. It got me thinking, why I linger on the negative when I can just look at the positive side and head towards that direction?
Yes I know, it's easier said than done. But there's no harm in trying, right? So to fully embrace that line and learn how to turn lemons into lemonade, I'm starting with small steps that will eventually lead me to see lifein a positive way—which you may find helpful too. So here's to a good one:
Ever since I became a mom, I have inadvertently alienated myself from all forms of fun. I was reluctant to nightlife parties, I've always said NO to barkada outings, booze became a thing of the past, and the list goes on. Family-work-chores-wash-rinse-repeat. Yes, I was that lifeless. The only ember that's keeping my life aglow is my son.
Life was quite easy (and bland) back then that boredom became my comfort zone. But I guess I've seen what I am becoming, a wallflower - unsociable and almost non existent to many people, that I decided to step out of it and become human once again.
My new job, or my officemates slash new found friends rather, have opened a new portal for me. The life I never had in the last four years is slowly coming back. And I am already seeing the way I once was: a free spirited kid.
Life was quite easy (and bland) back then that boredom became my comfort zone. But I guess I've seen what I am becoming, a wallflower - unsociable and almost non existent to many people, that I decided to step out of it and become human once again.
My new job, or my officemates slash new found friends rather, have opened a new portal for me. The life I never had in the last four years is slowly coming back. And I am already seeing the way I once was: a free spirited kid.
Okay, I'm already getting deep. So before I drown you with my sentiments, let me just tell you where my thoughts are coming from. Last Sunday, my colleagues and I went on a getaway to Gumasa, Glan, Saranggani Province - a 4-hour trip away from Davao. Everything from the bus rides to the long walks to the food we ate to the games we played to becoming hitchhikers sucked the stress out of us.
I started to read a new epic fantasy novel the other night and I can say that it is an awesome book because the first few pages held me captive. The only thing that's keeping me from turning the pages is the fact that I still have work in the morning. Bummer.
First, I would like to thank the slight, almost unnoticeable pain in my jaw that I felt when I got home tonight. I realized that I have been laughing and smiling most of the time for the whole day as my officemates and I talked about the wacky and catastrophic episodes during our company's team building that happened just last Saturday. Well, we all had a blast and we definitely have something fun to talk about. Two days, and we still can't get over it.
Second, who wouldn't love it when one of your bosses comes over your desk to give thumbs up and commends you for a job well done? It feels oh so great!
And lastly, an officemate brought a box full of mango squares and it was my first time to eat one. I'm not really into sweets, but this one takes the cake. I got one happy tummy, yay!
This Monday has really been good to me... it's definitely a triple treat. September has been awesome. It started well and it ended well too... Thank you Lord! :)
Second, who wouldn't love it when one of your bosses comes over your desk to give thumbs up and commends you for a job well done? It feels oh so great!
And lastly, an officemate brought a box full of mango squares and it was my first time to eat one. I'm not really into sweets, but this one takes the cake. I got one happy tummy, yay!
This Monday has really been good to me... it's definitely a triple treat. September has been awesome. It started well and it ended well too... Thank you Lord! :)
Everyone who knew me and those who read my blog know that I've been working at home ever since I got my first job. July this year, I was quite devastated when I heard the news that the company I work with (and came to love) has to put me from full-time to contractual work since sales and AU dollar rate have been declining. Meaning, I only have work to do and get paid when the need arises.
It's actually the biggest heartbreak of my career because: One, my bosses are really nice. You will seldom see nice (and forgiving) foreign bosses like them. Two, I had a great team. A project manager and developers that I can collaboratively work flawlessly with, beat that. Three, it's the highest paying company I've ever been to that my salary as a designer can equal to that of a developer (or even higher compared to other companies).
I admit it, I know it's shallow, but the last one bit me the hardest.
It's actually the biggest heartbreak of my career because: One, my bosses are really nice. You will seldom see nice (and forgiving) foreign bosses like them. Two, I had a great team. A project manager and developers that I can collaboratively work flawlessly with, beat that. Three, it's the highest paying company I've ever been to that my salary as a designer can equal to that of a developer (or even higher compared to other companies).
I admit it, I know it's shallow, but the last one bit me the hardest.
September marks the month of transition. Well, to most Pinoys, the start of BER months mean a transition from the ordinary days to the festivities of Christmas. As early as the first day of September some friends are already posting Christmasy statuses on Facebook. So if you're getting a Christmas greeting in social media as early as the first of September, we have not lost our minds. It's just a culture thing.
Well, yeah, I feel the transition. But this September begins a bigger transition in my life. Starting tomorrow, I will be a WAHM (work-at-home-mom) no more. Yep, you heard that right. I will no longer be waking up at the heat of the sun on my face, turn on the laptop and work on my jammies. Starting tomorrow I will have a new routine which includes dressing smartly, beating the rush hour, getting stuck in the traffic, going up the elevator, and checking in.
Well, yeah, I feel the transition. But this September begins a bigger transition in my life. Starting tomorrow, I will be a WAHM (work-at-home-mom) no more. Yep, you heard that right. I will no longer be waking up at the heat of the sun on my face, turn on the laptop and work on my jammies. Starting tomorrow I will have a new routine which includes dressing smartly, beating the rush hour, getting stuck in the traffic, going up the elevator, and checking in.
For months I've been going back and forth the sites Share Your Shelf and Book Shelf Porn. I really enjoy looking at other people's bookshelf. They fascinate me. And I easily fall in love with bookshelves no matter how organized and disorganized they are. Finding new reads, seeing what others read, what books we have in common, how one organizes his shelf... I think it's orgasmic. I believe that is every book lover's nature. Right? So, I thought I would like to share and bring you on a virtual tour to my own bookshelf.
I don't really organize or arrange books in particular way. Although, I do rearrange my books (for hours!) from time to time because I find it comforting. Mind you, I am a very messy person, but when it comes to my shelf, OCD always kicks in. hahaha. Although I was never one in the first place. It's like some OCD inducing bug bites me whenever I get near my shelf. LOL.
I don't really organize or arrange books in particular way. Although, I do rearrange my books (for hours!) from time to time because I find it comforting. Mind you, I am a very messy person, but when it comes to my shelf, OCD always kicks in. hahaha. Although I was never one in the first place. It's like some OCD inducing bug bites me whenever I get near my shelf. LOL.
....through photos!
I was born in 1985 in Manila, but we moved to Mindanao before I turned 1. I spent 27 years in Davao but only cared about my hometown when I turned ten. I never really got to see the beauty of Davao in the late 80s and early 90s. But thanks to Davao of the Past | A Repository of Old Davao Images, I got the chance to visit my beautiful hometown even in the earliest times. Yep, even as early as the days of Spanish Colonization.
Delight came over me as my eyes feasted to more than a hundred old photographs. I feel so nostalgic even though I know I haven't been to that time, but I know it is where I always belong. Seeing the beautiful and developing years of Davao has made me happy; but sadness coupled with yearning also dawned upon me as I know I will never be able to visit those places. Not in their grandiose form, to say the least.
These are just a few of my favorite photos that I grabbed from the page (circa 1920s-1980s, in no particular order). Way better than any instagram filter, right? So see for yourself the beauty the old Davao has to offer. What would I not give in a heartbeat to jump back to this era? :)
The old cinemas in Claveria where we used to watch a movie doubled with another movie. Of course, this photo is way older. |
We came from different cultures, different families, practice different religions, go to different schools, live different ways. We are so different in so many ways but there's one thing in common about us, WE ARE DABAWENYOS. And we are so proud of it.
Well, who wouldn't be? Davao is the only place in the country where I feel I am most safe. It's the only place where you can actually walk around downtown area in the wee hours of the morning while flaunting your most expensive gadget and not feel worried about it. Or where taxi drivers don't take advantage on you, especially when you're a tourist. Or where you can't spot a single smoker in the open (yep, health-wise, it's the safest). And yes, I can name more.
Well, who wouldn't be? Davao is the only place in the country where I feel I am most safe. It's the only place where you can actually walk around downtown area in the wee hours of the morning while flaunting your most expensive gadget and not feel worried about it. Or where taxi drivers don't take advantage on you, especially when you're a tourist. Or where you can't spot a single smoker in the open (yep, health-wise, it's the safest). And yes, I can name more.
When I'm on facebook, I don't just spend my time stalking on people's profiles and read about what they do with their lives. I join groups. Groups for mommies, bloggers, freelancers, hobbyists, online money makers and whatnot. Groups where you find healthy discussions, lessons from experiences, advises, and whatever useful tips you can get from there. Yep, these groups actually prove that facebook's existence is not just for stalkers, braggart, and/or attention seekers - just like every one of us. hahaha
While lurking on one of my most visited groups, Girltalk - a group for women, particularly moms who want to share their journey of motherhood, I came across a number of threads about full-time working moms who are in a dilemma of quitting their jobs to become full-time hands-on mom.
Not everyone is privileged to have an uber rich husband that you can just take your hands off work and focus on the kids instead. It is difficult because at times like this, when bills, milk, diaper, medical, and tuition fee prices go sky high, I can say that money does matter. You work because you want to provide. Provide not just what you can, but provide what you think is best. Right?
Upon hearing(or should I say reading) the sentiments of other moms, I have realized that I am indeed very blessed. Every day, I work an 8-12hour shift, and at the same time I tend to my son's needs and prepare him for school, and during breaks or just right after work, I am still able to do a few house chores like cooking, cleaning the house, washing the dishes, and/or doing the laundry.
Everyday is too much of a juggle, I would say that. Hiring a yaya even occurred to me, but I oftentimes ditch that thought because I can still handle one very active toddler, the pressing house chores, and the light pressure from work. The routine's pretty exhausting, really. But I'm not complaining (although sometimes, I do!). When I do, all I just think is to be thankful that I have a job that earns pretty well (at least the boyfriend doesn't have to shoulder all the expenses, plus it puts my self worth at a level), a house that I keep in order, and a family that I can take care of.
Not everyone is lucky to become a work-at-home-mom (WAHM). It's really tiring but the rewards are oh so priceless. I can just take my hands off the keyboard anytime my son asks for a kiss or a hug, who wouldn't love that? :)
While lurking on one of my most visited groups, Girltalk - a group for women, particularly moms who want to share their journey of motherhood, I came across a number of threads about full-time working moms who are in a dilemma of quitting their jobs to become full-time hands-on mom.
Not everyone is privileged to have an uber rich husband that you can just take your hands off work and focus on the kids instead. It is difficult because at times like this, when bills, milk, diaper, medical, and tuition fee prices go sky high, I can say that money does matter. You work because you want to provide. Provide not just what you can, but provide what you think is best. Right?
Upon hearing(or should I say reading) the sentiments of other moms, I have realized that I am indeed very blessed. Every day, I work an 8-12hour shift, and at the same time I tend to my son's needs and prepare him for school, and during breaks or just right after work, I am still able to do a few house chores like cooking, cleaning the house, washing the dishes, and/or doing the laundry.
Everyday is too much of a juggle, I would say that. Hiring a yaya even occurred to me, but I oftentimes ditch that thought because I can still handle one very active toddler, the pressing house chores, and the light pressure from work. The routine's pretty exhausting, really. But I'm not complaining (although sometimes, I do!). When I do, all I just think is to be thankful that I have a job that earns pretty well (at least the boyfriend doesn't have to shoulder all the expenses, plus it puts my self worth at a level), a house that I keep in order, and a family that I can take care of.
Okay, I do have a hobby but it's not as strenuous as before. As a matter of fact, it doesn't even require to move a muscle. lol
When was the last time I actually worked up a sweat? Or tried something new? I used to be soooo active. I was once a football player, a dancer, a mountaineer. But now? Now, I am exhausted. Exhausted for doing nothing. I fear that my thirst for thrill and vigor has slowly gone away. :(
Right now, I TERRIBLY MISS (yes, in bold uppercase letters):
I have not been the most obedient child, nor have I been the sweetest or thoughtful one. But it seems like God is still in favor of me because He has given the best mother of all time.
My mama and I are very opposite in so many ways. She's clean and organized, while I like it cluttered and messy. She likes intricacy while I'm a minimalist. She's a speaker, I'm a writer. She's straightforward, while I'm a bit reserved. She handles money well, while I -- need I say more? hahaha
But no matter how we go on different ways, one thing is for sure, there's always love. She loves me more than I could even imagine. She let's me take the last piece of burger even if her tummy's growling. She'd let me have the second pillow even if it's a hardwood that's beneath her. Yes, she gives me anything even if there's nothing more left for herself. She loves me despite the number of letdowns I gave, despite my rebellions, despite my animosity. She's still there no matter how many times I pushed her away. I love her too. But I don't think I could ever reciprocate the love she's giving me.
To tell you the truth, I've hated her so much before. But when a wee little one turned my life around, when I became a mother myself, that's when I saw right through my mother's eyes... all she did was love. She's the one who shaped, inspired, and encouraged my very being. There's more than a thousand and one reasons for me to to thank her. And I know it won't be enough. My mama is the most beautiful and best mom in the whole world.
A lot of my friends know I did not have the best relationship with my mother. I am hard-headed, stubborn, rebellious, and a tad spoiled brat and she, on the other hand, has the eye of the tigress and the mouth of a machine gun. We do just fine lest our heads collide - it's gonna be chaos.
But no matter how we go on different ways, one thing is for sure, there's always love. She loves me more than I could even imagine. She let's me take the last piece of burger even if her tummy's growling. She'd let me have the second pillow even if it's a hardwood that's beneath her. Yes, she gives me anything even if there's nothing more left for herself. She loves me despite the number of letdowns I gave, despite my rebellions, despite my animosity. She's still there no matter how many times I pushed her away. I love her too. But I don't think I could ever reciprocate the love she's giving me.
To tell you the truth, I've hated her so much before. But when a wee little one turned my life around, when I became a mother myself, that's when I saw right through my mother's eyes... all she did was love. She's the one who shaped, inspired, and encouraged my very being. There's more than a thousand and one reasons for me to to thank her. And I know it won't be enough. My mama is the most beautiful and best mom in the whole world.
I don't know what I have done to deserve such beautiful, empowered, and God-given treasure. I don't even think I am worthy but I know and am very thankful that I am very blessed. I pray that God will continually bless her with good health, and shower her with more blessings as she has been a blessing not just to me, not just to my dad and sister, but to other people as well.
Not everybody is blessed to have a mother, not to mention, the greatest in the world. What more could I ever ask for?
So to you and all the doting moms out there who never cease to love and care, the day is yours, Happy Mother's Day!
So to you and all the doting moms out there who never cease to love and care, the day is yours, Happy Mother's Day!
By Anonymous
What can I say about a girl I loved since I was ten... that I love the way she laughs at me when I commit mistakes, the way she fusses over silly things and even the way she cries over some sad silly late night show...
A Tale from a First-timer
I've never been to any bloggers social gathering before. I never had the courage to join, especially when I know nobody. Last Friday, May 3, 2013, was different. I decided to join Davao Bloggers Acquaintance Party just because. I was apprehensive but at the same time excited. In fact, too excited that I forgot to bring my camera and my phone *facepalm*
The venue was at Krispy Kreme - SM Lanang, but to me it felt like I was in a jungle. Really. I felt like a very little mouse in a jungle full of big unknown creatures. I do not know anybody, except perhaps for the familiar faces I've seen during my usual rounds of blog hops. I was intimidated and too anxious to go anywhere near the big ones, like they're a predator and I'm a prey.
Nobody knows me. But that's probably a good thing. I can just sit there quietly, try to be as small as I can be, and assume that I am invisible to everyone else. And for the win, I didn't have a phone that I can tinker so that I can pretend to look busy. I just sat there and read Krispy Kreme's paper placemats featuring their Mickey Mouse treats even if there's really nothing there to read. Muntanga lang. hahaha =D
It was a perfect fifteen-minute pathetic moment. But I didn't want to be pathetic (yeah, 15 minutes too late). So I flashed a gawky smile to the first stranger in front me and started a small but awkward conversation. Then one stranger after another, they came welcoming me with big, warm, friendly smiles. In a heartbeat, I snapped back into my senses. Hey, I am not in a jungle. I'm in a Davao Blogger's Acquaintance Party! And these creatures here aren't scary after all. Armed with shy His and Hellos, I made my way through the jungle meeting new people.
Yes, I survived.
To cut the story short, I enjoyed the night. I enjoyed their presentation of how Davao Bloggers started, their previous and incoming activities, and their goals. Which makes me want to slap myself for not joining this group ages ago. What have I been missing? Sigh. I am so amazed by their camaraderie. The fellowship they have shown is different. They are a family. The more I see them together, the more that I yearn to be part of it. Which I believe I should be. (Brace yourselves, new member coming! hehe)
I enjoyed the games and of course, the food! It was an awkward start but ended with a blast. A big one at that. And now, I look forward to more blogger gatherings like this.
I'd like to grab this opportunity to thank everyone, especially the officers, behind the Davao Blogger's Acquaintance Party. Thank you for bringing us together. We, especially the newbies, need events like this. A chance to gather, mingle, share and just enjoy the day with our fellow bloggers.I certainly think this is still, after all, a jungle... only filled with crazy but beautiful and friendly creatures.
I've never been to any bloggers social gathering before. I never had the courage to join, especially when I know nobody. Last Friday, May 3, 2013, was different. I decided to join Davao Bloggers Acquaintance Party just because. I was apprehensive but at the same time excited. In fact, too excited that I forgot to bring my camera and my phone *facepalm*
The venue was at Krispy Kreme - SM Lanang, but to me it felt like I was in a jungle. Really. I felt like a very little mouse in a jungle full of big unknown creatures. I do not know anybody, except perhaps for the familiar faces I've seen during my usual rounds of blog hops. I was intimidated and too anxious to go anywhere near the big ones, like they're a predator and I'm a prey.
Nobody knows me. But that's probably a good thing. I can just sit there quietly, try to be as small as I can be, and assume that I am invisible to everyone else. And for the win, I didn't have a phone that I can tinker so that I can pretend to look busy. I just sat there and read Krispy Kreme's paper placemats featuring their Mickey Mouse treats even if there's really nothing there to read. Muntanga lang. hahaha =D
It was a perfect fifteen-minute pathetic moment. But I didn't want to be pathetic (yeah, 15 minutes too late). So I flashed a gawky smile to the first stranger in front me and started a small but awkward conversation. Then one stranger after another, they came welcoming me with big, warm, friendly smiles. In a heartbeat, I snapped back into my senses. Hey, I am not in a jungle. I'm in a Davao Blogger's Acquaintance Party! And these creatures here aren't scary after all. Armed with shy His and Hellos, I made my way through the jungle meeting new people.
Yes, I survived.
To cut the story short, I enjoyed the night. I enjoyed their presentation of how Davao Bloggers started, their previous and incoming activities, and their goals. Which makes me want to slap myself for not joining this group ages ago. What have I been missing? Sigh. I am so amazed by their camaraderie. The fellowship they have shown is different. They are a family. The more I see them together, the more that I yearn to be part of it. Which I believe I should be. (Brace yourselves, new member coming! hehe)
I enjoyed the games and of course, the food! It was an awkward start but ended with a blast. A big one at that. And now, I look forward to more blogger gatherings like this.
I'd like to grab this opportunity to thank everyone, especially the officers, behind the Davao Blogger's Acquaintance Party. Thank you for bringing us together. We, especially the newbies, need events like this. A chance to gather, mingle, share and just enjoy the day with our fellow bloggers.I certainly think this is still, after all, a jungle... only filled with crazy but beautiful and friendly creatures.
The attendees. Me, the girl in yellow green. Photo courtesy of Algene Cutamora. |
My love for digital art started from a simple photo manipulation. I was 17. All I did was edit a photo by adding fancy texts, splatter some brushes here and some glitters there, and voila! I called it art. And I was so proud of it.
Then one photo after another, I started to improve. I explored almost everything that has something to do with pixels. From photo manipulation to vector to vexel to digital paint. It became more than a hobby... it became my passion.
Today, I'd like to share with you my firsts on every type of project I made. These are just a few of a hundreds of my projects during the early days of still learning how to unleash creativity using the digital technology.
Then one photo after another, I started to improve. I explored almost everything that has something to do with pixels. From photo manipulation to vector to vexel to digital paint. It became more than a hobby... it became my passion.
Today, I'd like to share with you my firsts on every type of project I made. These are just a few of a hundreds of my projects during the early days of still learning how to unleash creativity using the digital technology.
When people learn that I work from home, I get different reactions. Most people would say "Ka hayahay." Hayahay is a term from our local dialect which could mean any of the following: relaxing, comfortable, convenient, ease, and all other terms related to it. It is as good as saying "It must be nice to have a stress-free work."
No, not really. And there's no such thing.
Sometimes, people envy me, thinking that I hold all the time for myself. Note, thinking. It seems most people with "real jobs" think home-based jobs can be as easy as just clicking the mouse, (e.g. paid to click, networking, referrals, ponzi schemes) earning while doing almost nothing. No. These are real office jobs we do, only we chose to be at home.
Working from home is not what you really think it is. I am well aware of the perks of working at home, and I absolutely love it. However, I can't deny the fact that I also need to acknowledge the perils that come with it.
No, not really. And there's no such thing.
Sometimes, people envy me, thinking that I hold all the time for myself. Note, thinking. It seems most people with "real jobs" think home-based jobs can be as easy as just clicking the mouse, (e.g. paid to click, networking, referrals, ponzi schemes) earning while doing almost nothing. No. These are real office jobs we do, only we chose to be at home.
Working from home is not what you really think it is. I am well aware of the perks of working at home, and I absolutely love it. However, I can't deny the fact that I also need to acknowledge the perils that come with it.
My Workstation |
Ten years ago, I chose to study nursing because I thought this career could take me to a good life: work abroad, have a car and build my dream house. One hundred hospital duties, thirty absences and countless pink slips later, I dreaded the fact that I chose Nursing.
I regularly slept in class, I flunked a major subject because of accumulated absences, and I loathed every second of every day of every 8-hour health care lecture. I just do not like it. It costs more or less than half a million pesos to send me to nursing school and I ended up being a disappointment.
You know what's so depressing? it's when you're down to the last 50 pages of the book that is totally gripping and has held you captive and awake at nights. The fact that you're about to leave a different world that you have loved and the characters you got attached to. You're excited to know how it's going to end and at the same time saddened because you know that that's the last of that world.
This is the best epic fantasy series I've read in a long time, and it has finally come to an end. Brandon Sanderson, I hate you so much. You should have just shot me to the head instead.
Anyway, I feel like I've been Brandon Sandersoned. I just got more books from him and these are next on my reading list.
This is exactly how I feel right now |
Will probably get hardcover copies for these. :) |
Anyway, I feel like I've been Brandon Sandersoned. I just got more books from him and these are next on my reading list.
The Way of Kings Part 1 was out of stock, but still I got myself a copy of Part 2. Excited lang. hehe |
Look what came in the mail today!
I didn't throw a hundred bucks for this just to be taken away by careless freight forwarders. Just so you know, a local bookstore actually sells books like these but since they're too pricey (almost 50% more than the original price), I decided to order from the actual Barnes and Noble site. Saves more even with the freight fee included. But of course, the loooong wait and anxiety is the price to pay.
Gasp. It's worth the wait. I am so stunned. B-E-A-utiful is an understatement.
I know EP leatherbounds are waaaay better, of course, paired with a price that I cannot ever afford. But who needs a sixty-dollar worth of leatherbound book when I got these? I couldn't be more satisfied. These B&N books have elegant covers with intricate details and beautiful design, gilded pages, readable fonts printed in a smooth paper, plus the smell... ahhh the smell... I'm so in love.
I'm not an expert on scrutinizing book make or quality, but I believe
this is a bang for your buck. They are actually cheaper than I
thought. I mean, $18 for a book to be this absolutely gorgeous? I got myself a great
deal. These books are a keeper.
The only let down is the ease of reading for the bigger ones. Yes, they're not just eye-candies for shelves; I plan to actually read them (although I've already read most). To bind more than 5 novels into one book, imagine how thick, big, and heavy would that be? But that's okay, I have read the Deathly Hallows (in Hardcover) without complaints. Although these leatherbounds are heavier. I don't like reading while lying down anyway. So a heavy book on the lap wouldn't be much of a problem.
I hope they make more leatherbound editions. Imagine having Tolkien's Lord of the Rings in leatherbound. Uh-huh, EPIC.
Anyway, could somebody spare me a hundred bucks? I dream of having the entire collection one day, but I'm good with just a few. Four more will do. Would that be too much to ask?
You know how much I wanted these from my previous post. Gawd, I've waited for more than 2months for these books. Yes 2 months. Scared the hell out of me. I am used to buying stuff overseas and there was never any issue regarding delivery delays or items not received. But this one really gave me worries.
The boxed set |
The Classics are ♥. Need I say more? |
Gilded pages. Love it! Looks like I just opened a treasure chest ! |
Gasp. It's worth the wait. I am so stunned. B-E-A-utiful is an understatement.
I know EP leatherbounds are waaaay better, of course, paired with a price that I cannot ever afford. But who needs a sixty-dollar worth of leatherbound book when I got these? I couldn't be more satisfied. These B&N books have elegant covers with intricate details and beautiful design, gilded pages, readable fonts printed in a smooth paper, plus the smell... ahhh the smell... I'm so in love.
The pictures don't even do justice. |
I know someday this will come handy for my son's Literature class |
love the illustrated flyleaf |
Who doesn't love books with maps?
|
yes! some books have illustration on them! |
Anyway, could somebody spare me a hundred bucks? I dream of having the entire collection one day, but I'm good with just a few. Four more will do. Would that be too much to ask?
Perfect! But it breaks my heart that the more I look at it, the more I long for the other collection. LOL |
I am a HAPPY worm! |
I design websites for a living, cook breakfast, wash the dishes, then feed, bathe and play with my son at the same time. Sounds like too much of a juggle? I don't think so.
I survived the first crucial year of mommyhood, tending to my son's needs, always there to see my baby's sloppy first, watching him grow every minute, never missing a milestone - while at the same time earning money for our basic needs. See? That reason alone is the greatest perk of working at home.
I survived the first crucial year of mommyhood, tending to my son's needs, always there to see my baby's sloppy first, watching him grow every minute, never missing a milestone - while at the same time earning money for our basic needs. See? That reason alone is the greatest perk of working at home.
these...
Would you look at that? I can stare at them forever! Seriously. Who could resist these beauties? The classics, gorgeous covers, leatherbound... ahhhhh (yes with a lot of h) they probably smell awesome. I know nothing beats those, you know, vintage leatherbound books, or it's nowhere near those Easton Press leatherbound collector editions, which is in no way I can afford also... but this is close to having that.