Taking My Travel Adventures to the Next Level
By Sarah Aterrado - February 15, 2017
I don't remember the last time I binge-watched over a tv series because I have never really watched anything since Burn Notice ended.
Call me a loser. I've never seen The Walking Dead, I couldn't even get past episode 1 of the Game of Thrones, I don't know what's strange about Stranger Things, and not even a single thought of jumping into the Korean drama bandwagon crossed my mind - which is probably a good thing.
But I ended up giving Riverdale a try. Seriously? I probably deserve a good punch in the face for missing on the good shows and giving this a second look, not to mention, time to blog about this. I'm not even into highschool-centric dramas (Mean Girls is an exception). But since I was a big Archie comics fan back then, I decided to watch the pilot episode after the teasers gave me a hunch that they got the characters wrong. And I was right.
Call me a loser. I've never seen The Walking Dead, I couldn't even get past episode 1 of the Game of Thrones, I don't know what's strange about Stranger Things, and not even a single thought of jumping into the Korean drama bandwagon crossed my mind - which is probably a good thing.
But I ended up giving Riverdale a try. Seriously? I probably deserve a good punch in the face for missing on the good shows and giving this a second look, not to mention, time to blog about this. I'm not even into highschool-centric dramas (Mean Girls is an exception). But since I was a big Archie comics fan back then, I decided to watch the pilot episode after the teasers gave me a hunch that they got the characters wrong. And I was right.
I think my cat, Appa, thinks I am super adorable that he decided to bite me. Well, if I had it my way, that's how I would show my fondness to Jan too. Except, there will be no bleeding.
Appa is actually sweet and affectionate. He follows me wherever I am. He sits on my lap whenever I work. Snuggles beside me when I'm on my bed. And right now, alcsfnhacflhan ;j;dh;jhb[dtu[ he's helping me write this post. Awww... thank you so much, buddy! His sweetness makes me forget that cats are naturally shady characters. Perhaps, he was actually trying to murder me because his breakfast was not served on time. I did not see him the whole day, so I can only assume he's plotting his next move after a failed murder attempt.
But if my cat did not kill me, the rabies shots will. Google simply told me that one vial costs more than a thousand pesos and I need at least 3 shots for it. 4 if he's proven rabid (which I think he's not. I believe he's just a murderous, raving lunatic). The cost did give me a heart attack but not close to killing me though. Try harder, Appa.
Appa is actually sweet and affectionate. He follows me wherever I am. He sits on my lap whenever I work. Snuggles beside me when I'm on my bed. And right now, alcsfnhacflhan ;j;dh;jhb[dtu[ he's helping me write this post. Awww... thank you so much, buddy! His sweetness makes me forget that cats are naturally shady characters. Perhaps, he was actually trying to murder me because his breakfast was not served on time. I did not see him the whole day, so I can only assume he's plotting his next move after a failed murder attempt.
But if my cat did not kill me, the rabies shots will. Google simply told me that one vial costs more than a thousand pesos and I need at least 3 shots for it. 4 if he's proven rabid (which I think he's not. I believe he's just a murderous, raving lunatic). The cost did give me a heart attack but not close to killing me though. Try harder, Appa.
I pity those people with seafood allergies. They are missing a lot. Actually, I am allergic to crabs. But unlike others, I can still eat a bucketful without throwing up or blowing up like a balloon. I would just have a few really really itchy red spots all over my limbs that's just easy deal with. It won't send my lungs to an overdrive or worse, kill me. And that's a pretty good thing knowing my absolute love for crabs is non-negotiable.
A week ago, Blue Posts Boiling Crabs and Shrimps invited me and a few blogger friends to their private launching of their third branch here in Davao City. I've read and heard great stories about this. And judging from the words coming from my friends' mouths, it's something I definitely don't want to miss.
And the stories were right.
A week ago, Blue Posts Boiling Crabs and Shrimps invited me and a few blogger friends to their private launching of their third branch here in Davao City. I've read and heard great stories about this. And judging from the words coming from my friends' mouths, it's something I definitely don't want to miss.
And the stories were right.
Everybody knows that I am into arts and crafts. I can DIY whatever the hell I want. It's just that... I am lazy. And I don't have a lot of patience for it.
Today, I installed a new cork board and a whiteboard for my workstation - which is pretty boring. And even though I am lazy as can be, I can't have it that way. So to add a little pizzazz to it, I created a pen holder that will hold my whiteboard markers so that I don't have to reach far if I want to write something on it. I saw this somewhere on Pinterest and decided to make one myself.
And bam! My cute DIY pen holder:
Materials you need:
- Cutter
- Scissors
- Empty shampoo bottle
- Art paper
- Glue
- Double-sided foam/mounting tape
I really don't have to make a detailed instruction on how to do it because the crafting part is pretty straightforward and I will leave the creatives up to you. But if you're feeling crafty and looking for something to recycle, I hope this post helped. :)
P.S.
You might also want to check the other pen holder I created last year: DIY Pen Holder
Today, I installed a new cork board and a whiteboard for my workstation - which is pretty boring. And even though I am lazy as can be, I can't have it that way. So to add a little pizzazz to it, I created a pen holder that will hold my whiteboard markers so that I don't have to reach far if I want to write something on it. I saw this somewhere on Pinterest and decided to make one myself.
And bam! My cute DIY pen holder:
Materials you need:
- Cutter
- Scissors
- Empty shampoo bottle
- Art paper
- Glue
- Double-sided foam/mounting tape
I really don't have to make a detailed instruction on how to do it because the crafting part is pretty straightforward and I will leave the creatives up to you. But if you're feeling crafty and looking for something to recycle, I hope this post helped. :)
P.S.
You might also want to check the other pen holder I created last year: DIY Pen Holder
Hanggang saan aabot ang bente pesos mo?
Sa Mt. Capistrano po.
Standing just around 600+ mASL, Mt. Capistrano has become a favorite hiking destination for newbies and seasoned hikers alike.
The unique rock formations at the summit urged me to climb this mountain even though I was advised not to do any hikes until my knee is fully healed. But then, you're talking to Sarah. When has Sarah ever listened? #WagGayahin
Sa Mt. Capistrano po.
Standing just around 600+ mASL, Mt. Capistrano has become a favorite hiking destination for newbies and seasoned hikers alike.
The unique rock formations at the summit urged me to climb this mountain even though I was advised not to do any hikes until my knee is fully healed. But then, you're talking to Sarah. When has Sarah ever listened? #WagGayahin
While some people are exceptionally lucky to always win raffle draws, I am perpetually the opposite. Perhaps I'd be struck by a lightning a hundred times before I even get a chance to win a scratch off lottery game.
But then again, I am still lucky. Just in a different way.
Several days ago, I won a nationwide Blog Writing Contest from AirAsia Philippines. And this isn't the first time I've won a contest. I've won several quiz bees, Math challenges (I detest Math, though), extemporaneous speeches, sports (MVP and Best Goalkeeper), and poster-making contests during my prime childhood and teenage years. I've won quite a few international logo and web design contests, too. And in the recent years, I've bagged some nationwide and local blog awards.
Yes, it does sound like I am blowing my own horn here because I am indeed blowing my own horn. And I am not ashamed to admit that. But what I'm only trying to say is, I've never won a contest I didn't work hard for.
And this is how my luck comes in.
But then again, I am still lucky. Just in a different way.
Several days ago, I won a nationwide Blog Writing Contest from AirAsia Philippines. And this isn't the first time I've won a contest. I've won several quiz bees, Math challenges (I detest Math, though), extemporaneous speeches, sports (MVP and Best Goalkeeper), and poster-making contests during my prime childhood and teenage years. I've won quite a few international logo and web design contests, too. And in the recent years, I've bagged some nationwide and local blog awards.
Yes, it does sound like I am blowing my own horn here because I am indeed blowing my own horn. And I am not ashamed to admit that. But what I'm only trying to say is, I've never won a contest I didn't work hard for.
And this is how my luck comes in.
Anyway, to start the year right, Jan and I decided to go all the way to Cortes, Surigao del Sur to witness and experience something amazing and spectacular.
The stunning and jaw-dropping Laswitan Lagoon.
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| Photo taken by my mom on a different date. |
I have to admit, I really don't know how to write a story anymore. While remnants of pain from the knee injury I got there still linger to remind me that it was not an easy climb, I do not know how to put into detail everything that happened during that climb. After all, it has almost been a month. So if you're here to know about our itinerary, how much time we've spent on the trails, yadda yadda... I am sorry but I will fail you at that.
But if you're interested how our K2D climb went, hop in. I can best summarize it into 3 words: Difficult. Exhausting. Rewarding.
2016 was a roller coaster ride. A lot of sh*t happened. But then again, a lot of great things surprised me too. And here are a few pages of the 365-page book that I have just finished writing.
First Quarter
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| L-R, top row to bottom 1. Salomon City Trail Run (12k) 2. Archery. Not bad for a first timer. ;) 3. Twas a dream come true to finally paint the walls of the streets 4. Strawberry picking at Baguio 5. Sea of Clouds at Mount Pulag 6. Won Electrolux's blog writing contest 7. Adopted this little fella and named him Appa 8. One day luxurious weekend getaway at Lorelei 9. My favorite human turned 31 ♥ 10. Sunrise at Mount Apo 11. Ran for the rehabilitation of Mount Apo 12. Team building with Z fam at Maxima Aquafun |
I was not born with a silver spoon.
In fact, I wasn't born with any spoon at all. I remember being poor. But I don't remember how it feels like to be poor, I just remember being loved. Looking back to where we came from, I grew up with hand-me-downs and that being treated with a slice of pizza would already mean the best day ever.
We also didn't have a house of our own, so it's no surprise that we moved quite a lot. From one church parsonage to another to the squatters area in Claveria to the shady slums of Piapi Boulevard to the outskirts of Puan, it's not a wonder living in those dog eat dog communities that I developed this astig (badass) personality. However, I was raised well. My papa worked two jobs, he's a church pastor and also a government employee. My mama, a public school teacher, who had to work to a far-flung area also sold ice candies and yemas for extra. We definitely had tough times. We almost had nothing but like I said, we have LOVE.
In fact, I wasn't born with any spoon at all. I remember being poor. But I don't remember how it feels like to be poor, I just remember being loved. Looking back to where we came from, I grew up with hand-me-downs and that being treated with a slice of pizza would already mean the best day ever.
We also didn't have a house of our own, so it's no surprise that we moved quite a lot. From one church parsonage to another to the squatters area in Claveria to the shady slums of Piapi Boulevard to the outskirts of Puan, it's not a wonder living in those dog eat dog communities that I developed this astig (badass) personality. However, I was raised well. My papa worked two jobs, he's a church pastor and also a government employee. My mama, a public school teacher, who had to work to a far-flung area also sold ice candies and yemas for extra. We definitely had tough times. We almost had nothing but like I said, we have LOVE.
I just came from the longest, most strenuous, and most painful climb I ever had. I know what I am capable of and I thought that the Mount Kitanglad- Mount Dulang-dulang (dubbed as K2D) traverse wouldn't be any trouble for a relatively fit person like me. I do a lot of hikes and have even gone as far as doing pretty badass buwis-buhay ones. I know K2D is going to be hard, but not demotivating, spirit-crushing hard.
I underestimated that climb.
For three weeks, I was idle. I stopped training Muay Thai and went binge-watching over the 1987 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series (don't ask). I did no body conditioning, no carbo-protein loading, no training or whatsoever prior to this climb. End result? I went home with a knee injury and a vow never to do another climb.
You see, as rewarding and breathtaking those hiking photos you see on Facebook may seem, truth is, hiking is a serious business and IT ISN'T ALWAYS FUN. What's so fun about heavy packs, thin air, dehydration, freezing temperature, and leg cramps anyway?
You see, as rewarding and breathtaking those hiking photos you see on Facebook may seem, truth is, hiking is a serious business and IT ISN'T ALWAYS FUN. What's so fun about heavy packs, thin air, dehydration, freezing temperature, and leg cramps anyway?
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| Any experienced mountaineer will be quick to point out that this image, however awesome and breath-taking it looks, does not take into account the physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion, and pain that come with it. |
You see, I have been appointed as the sexy-tary, I mean Secretary of the Davao Bloggers Society. Have I known about the drawbacks that come with it, I would have not accepted the role. Because first, I am no longer eligible to win raffle draws nor will I have the chance to bag the Best Personal Blog Award for this year's Davao Blog Awards again. Bummer, isn't it? Second, being an officer can get exhausting. No kidding, kapoy sya.
But then, even if I waive several raffle prizes and grow eyebags from those late night preparations, I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm thankful for this. I am thankful for this new family. And nothing can ever get so rewarding when you pull off something you devoted your supposedly-free-time with that made everyone else happy. :)
The past week until today has been the Mondayest week ever. To be honest, it felt like I am stuck in an episode of The Walking Dead where everything nasty and ugly is chasing you and badly wants you dead (and here I am talking as if I watch TWD). For more than a week, I really thought the universe hates me because nothing seems to go right. I was already on the verge of becoming a nutcase. Then Columbia happened.
I have got to admit, I rarely ever check my blog email. Yes, the one I posted on my contact page so people can get in touch with me. I wouldn't know that I was getting a handful of emails until Kuya Andrew (Davao Bloggers Society's President) asked me if I got an email from Resorts World Manila (RWM). So I checked and behold!
I have been exclusively invited to the RWM Christmas Familiarization Tour.
As interesting and exciting as it sounds, I was quite apprehensive at first because I have never been invited to an event this big. And knowing RWM, the words world-class, prestigious, and elite are always attached to it. And buddy, I am none of those things.
I have been exclusively invited to the RWM Christmas Familiarization Tour.
As interesting and exciting as it sounds, I was quite apprehensive at first because I have never been invited to an event this big. And knowing RWM, the words world-class, prestigious, and elite are always attached to it. And buddy, I am none of those things.
This is something far-fetched and different for me. But then, different is something that I always love to try. It is definitely an experience I wouldn't want to miss. So even if it means working double time to make up for the two work days that I won't be around, I gave out a faint, sexy whisper: Resorts World Manilaaaah.
Here. I. Come.
DAY 1: Lunch with the Biggies, Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, and Media Appreciation Night
We flew all the way from Davao City and arrived at RWM just in time for lunch. Five of the media people from Mindanao were invited, the two came from Davao Bloggers Society (DBS). It is such and honor that Julie of astoldbyjulz.com and I got to represent DBS. We had a sumptuous lunch and small talk with some people carrying the big names of RWM.
We even had the chance to take photos with director of Annie, Mr. Michael Williams!
After stuffing our tummies with Korean and Japanese food goodness, we checked-in at the premier room of Remington Hotel. And this was my lovely home for two days:
Nothing gets better than this after work has deprived me of sleep the night before the flight. So I threw myself to bed and took a little nap to prepare for the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony and Media Appreciation Night.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Since I am dressed to kill and it's not all the time I would give a damn about my hair (though I had a messy bun that time), a few vanity shots wouldn't hurt. Although I wish I knew how to put a makeup on, para level up sana ang ganda. Char! I even asked Julie to do the brows for me. But since we ran out of time, di na ako nakapagkilay. Di ko tuloy alam kung ano nga ba talaga ang ibig sabihin ng "Kilay is Life". Haha. Geez. Sarah, tigulang na ka.
To welcome the holiday season with its annual Grand Fiesta, a ceremonial tree-lighting ceremony at The Plaza in Newport Mall was held. And we're so glad to witness and be part of it.
Magic is indeed everywhere in Resorts World Manila's Grand Fiesta Manila 2016. Topnotch performances like Yugyugan Nation - featuring the classic dance hits of 70s Filipino icons, Air Supply, and hit children's TV show Hi-5 Fairy Tale of Australia, are just a few ones to watch out for.
Here are some snaps:
Media Appreciation Night
We proceeded to House Manila, Remington Hotel right after the ceremony. It was indeed a grand party for Media people from all over the Philippines. Prizes pa lang malulula ka na sa bongga (at maiinggit at magiging bitter lalo na kung di ka mananalo tulad ko). Mga international trips and cruises lang naman yun. Sigh. But anyway, just by getting invited to this event is more than enough that I would consider myself a winner. I am grateful to have experienced this. Really.
It was a night of music, entertainment, and drinking. But since mga manang kami ni Julie, behave lang po kami. Pati champagne, inichapwera namin. Boo! Walang mag-react please. Haha.
DAY 2: Marriott Grand Ballroom and Annie
We had a chance to tour Marriott Hotel's Ballroom. But before that, picture po muna. Pagbigyan nyo na ako. Everybody knows that I RARELY (almost do not) ever take selfies. Ngayon lang, pleath.
Here are some of Marriot Hotel's interesting interiors:
What followed was a lunch at Passion's in Maxims Hotel. Then I slept until we had dinner at Victoria Harbour Café. Then at night came what I was so excited about:
You see, I have been part of big and small plays in school and church. So it's no surprise that I get ecstatic about musical plays. And I've not seen a real one with grand production. Ever.
But first, since I kind-of prepared for this night (at pinahirapan ako ng buhok ko), let me take a selfie:
The play was about a story of an orphan named Annie who was adopted by a billionaire Oliver Warbucks and it changed their life forever. Yeah, that's pretty much everything.
I know I suck at giving summaries that's why I always get a B on my book reports. Haha. But anyway, it was a heartwarming, wonderful pre-Christmas treat that will inspire you and teach you hope and will definitely make you look onto the bright side of that hard-knock life. It took three hours of my life but it was definitely worth it.
And of course, we also had the chance to have pictures with the cute little darlings of Annie. :)
To cap off the night, would be another selfie. Promise, last na to. I was all smiles for having experienced such prestigious event. Thank you, Resorts World Manila! And everybody from the RWM team, especially Mae and Cristina for spoiling us and taking good care of us. We definitely had an awesome time. No amount of words can express how grateful I am. Again, thank you so much! 'Til then. ♥
Here. I. Come.
DAY 1: Lunch with the Biggies, Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, and Media Appreciation Night
We flew all the way from Davao City and arrived at RWM just in time for lunch. Five of the media people from Mindanao were invited, the two came from Davao Bloggers Society (DBS). It is such and honor that Julie of astoldbyjulz.com and I got to represent DBS. We had a sumptuous lunch and small talk with some people carrying the big names of RWM.
We even had the chance to take photos with director of Annie, Mr. Michael Williams!
After stuffing our tummies with Korean and Japanese food goodness, we checked-in at the premier room of Remington Hotel. And this was my lovely home for two days:
 |
| I got this large and cozy room all for myself. |
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Since I am dressed to kill and it's not all the time I would give a damn about my hair (though I had a messy bun that time), a few vanity shots wouldn't hurt. Although I wish I knew how to put a makeup on, para level up sana ang ganda. Char! I even asked Julie to do the brows for me. But since we ran out of time, di na ako nakapagkilay. Di ko tuloy alam kung ano nga ba talaga ang ibig sabihin ng "Kilay is Life". Haha. Geez. Sarah, tigulang na ka.
To welcome the holiday season with its annual Grand Fiesta, a ceremonial tree-lighting ceremony at The Plaza in Newport Mall was held. And we're so glad to witness and be part of it.
Magic is indeed everywhere in Resorts World Manila's Grand Fiesta Manila 2016. Topnotch performances like Yugyugan Nation - featuring the classic dance hits of 70s Filipino icons, Air Supply, and hit children's TV show Hi-5 Fairy Tale of Australia, are just a few ones to watch out for.
Here are some snaps:
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| The cast of Annie surprised us with a Christmas song |
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| Christmas tree lighting was led by the RWM executives and the cast of Annie. |
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| I can feel the spirit of Christmas! |
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| And of course, photo ops and selfie just because. |
We proceeded to House Manila, Remington Hotel right after the ceremony. It was indeed a grand party for Media people from all over the Philippines. Prizes pa lang malulula ka na sa bongga (at maiinggit at magiging bitter lalo na kung di ka mananalo tulad ko). Mga international trips and cruises lang naman yun. Sigh. But anyway, just by getting invited to this event is more than enough that I would consider myself a winner. I am grateful to have experienced this. Really.
It was a night of music, entertainment, and drinking. But since mga manang kami ni Julie, behave lang po kami. Pati champagne, inichapwera namin. Boo! Walang mag-react please. Haha.
DAY 2: Marriott Grand Ballroom and Annie
We had a chance to tour Marriott Hotel's Ballroom. But before that, picture po muna. Pagbigyan nyo na ako. Everybody knows that I RARELY (almost do not) ever take selfies. Ngayon lang, pleath.
 |
| Barefaced. But damn, I love Ecoskinlove's baby pink lip balm. And the lighting's good too (hindi po ako maputi ha. haha) :) |
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| VisMin represent! With friends from Cebu Bloggers Society and Mindanation. Photo by Julie via Davao Bloggers Society |
Here are some of Marriot Hotel's interesting interiors:
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| This house is edible. |
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| Annie! |
But first, since I kind-of prepared for this night (at pinahirapan ako ng buhok ko), let me take a selfie:
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| Excited! |
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| This is it! :) |
I know I suck at giving summaries that's why I always get a B on my book reports. Haha. But anyway, it was a heartwarming, wonderful pre-Christmas treat that will inspire you and teach you hope and will definitely make you look onto the bright side of that hard-knock life. It took three hours of my life but it was definitely worth it.
And of course, we also had the chance to have pictures with the cute little darlings of Annie. :)
To cap off the night, would be another selfie. Promise, last na to. I was all smiles for having experienced such prestigious event. Thank you, Resorts World Manila! And everybody from the RWM team, especially Mae and Cristina for spoiling us and taking good care of us. We definitely had an awesome time. No amount of words can express how grateful I am. Again, thank you so much! 'Til then. ♥
I don't always get sick but when I do I get the nastiest cough and cold virus ever. I think this is the first time in 2016 that I got hit (yeah, I'm a hardy like that). I was all and well training Muay Thai, then the next day I have a sore throat, then came the fever, and now my voice is gone. I have an annoying dry cough, my nose is stuffy, and I can't breathe properly.
I was browsing through a thousand photos that I have just transferred from my memory card and sorted them according to the places I've been to when I said to myself, "my 20-year old self would be so envious of me".
She was a carefree, adventurous, and spirited young girl but the chains of digital age caught her. She got herself locked up and enslaved in a virtual world. Many of you would describe her as a video game addict. Yes, that typical gamer who'd resist the urge to use a toilet and deal with it for as long as she can. She allowed the video games to control and take over her life. And for years, she turned into a zombiefied no-lifer girl who merely existed for rare drops and +7s.
She was a carefree, adventurous, and spirited young girl but the chains of digital age caught her. She got herself locked up and enslaved in a virtual world. Many of you would describe her as a video game addict. Yes, that typical gamer who'd resist the urge to use a toilet and deal with it for as long as she can. She allowed the video games to control and take over her life. And for years, she turned into a zombiefied no-lifer girl who merely existed for rare drops and +7s.
I've done several river crossings and canyoning before. And not one of them have I worn a proper footwear. I used to be so proud wearing my trusted hiking shoes - waterproof and all. But on occasions, I've had these futile attempts to keep my shoes dry. I turn to a different route or look for another way. I would avoid crossings that are already ankle deep at all cost to save me the trouble of wearing a heavy bucketful of water on my feet. But of course, that's not always the case.
Sometimes, I'd wear sandals because it's more comfortable and lighter than a hiking shoes. Plus, I don't have to think twice about wading into the water and getting my feet wet. But since I can be clumsy too, I've had blisters and injured a toe or two with it.
But these days, I'm no longer worried about taking on any water adventure because I have this:
Sometimes, I'd wear sandals because it's more comfortable and lighter than a hiking shoes. Plus, I don't have to think twice about wading into the water and getting my feet wet. But since I can be clumsy too, I've had blisters and injured a toe or two with it.
But these days, I'm no longer worried about taking on any water adventure because I have this:
I've taken a lot of buses in my travels. But the most memorable one happened three years ago today when I sat next to a guy on the way home from Gumasa, Glan.
His name is Jan and we had a little conversation—the first real one we ever had two months since I came in as the new Software Designer in the company we previously worked with. It wasn't exactly the kind of conversation that will get you butterflies in the stomach. There isn't much to remember what it was about either. God knows what broke the ice because he's the shy type and I'm not the one who'd initially strike a conversation. But something got us talking that it felt we've known each other for a long time. It was so spontaneous and natural. And the next thing we knew, time flew. It was already 3 hours later.
Bang late!
His name is Jan and we had a little conversation—the first real one we ever had two months since I came in as the new Software Designer in the company we previously worked with. It wasn't exactly the kind of conversation that will get you butterflies in the stomach. There isn't much to remember what it was about either. God knows what broke the ice because he's the shy type and I'm not the one who'd initially strike a conversation. But something got us talking that it felt we've known each other for a long time. It was so spontaneous and natural. And the next thing we knew, time flew. It was already 3 hours later.
Bang late!
How to be u po?
That's one of the comments I often receive whenever I post something on Facebook or sometimes here on my blog. I'm not a celebrity or something. But I believe every blogger, regardless of the number of followers, has certainly experienced the same.
Not that I think our readers and followers worship our curated and seasoned lives on social media. But then, I think it's fun to answer that infamous question once and for all.
How to be me nga ba? Here are 39 ways:
That's one of the comments I often receive whenever I post something on Facebook or sometimes here on my blog. I'm not a celebrity or something. But I believe every blogger, regardless of the number of followers, has certainly experienced the same.
Not that I think our readers and followers worship our curated and seasoned lives on social media. But then, I think it's fun to answer that infamous question once and for all.
How to be me nga ba? Here are 39 ways:
The beer brewed in Bacolod definitely tastes better than any beer brewed anywhere in the country. But I won't talk about beer here because Bacolod offers more than that.
DAY 1: CALEA PASTRIES AND CAKE, NENA'S ROSE CHICKEN INASAL
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| Even though I do not have a sweet tooth, I have to try Bacolod's Calea Pastries and Cake. Jan ordered Chocolate Square (upper right), while I ordered Raspberry Cream Cheese (lower right) and it did not disappoint dahil naubos ko! :) |
I don't have a stage fright.
Or so I thought.
I have been a performer all my life. I grew up doing various performances such as acting, singing (don't get me wrong, I am tone deaf), and dancing for our church. I've done quite a lot of dance number, declamations, extemporaneous and impromptu speeches in high school. I have been part of small-scaled and large plays, and I was a cheerleader all throughout my college life.
See? It wasn't a big deal to perform something for a large crowd until that one fateful Ukulele Night.
Or so I thought.
I have been a performer all my life. I grew up doing various performances such as acting, singing (don't get me wrong, I am tone deaf), and dancing for our church. I've done quite a lot of dance number, declamations, extemporaneous and impromptu speeches in high school. I have been part of small-scaled and large plays, and I was a cheerleader all throughout my college life.
See? It wasn't a big deal to perform something for a large crowd until that one fateful Ukulele Night.
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| Photo by Kwatro Kwerdas |
Hence, here's another beach escapade. And this time, it's the famous Boracay baby! :)
Funny how I have always thought that Boracay isn't one of the places I am eager to set my foot on. I have heard a million times how overrated, expensive, and overdeveloped it is. But when Jan and I decided to go, I just couldn't contain my excitement!
Maybe Boracay is a whole lot different to the places devoid of the tourist conveniences we've mostly been to and enjoyed. But I won't skip experiencing something so beautiful just because people labeled it as "touristy" or "not worth the hype".
Maybe Boracay is a whole lot different to the places devoid of the tourist conveniences we've mostly been to and enjoyed. But I won't skip experiencing something so beautiful just because people labeled it as "touristy" or "not worth the hype".
And does it really matter? Honestly, I don't give a shit where our feet would take us. It's whom I am traveling with that matters the most. It's traveling with Jan that I am most excited with. And I don't care if it would take a 24-hour butt-numbing bus ride, delayed flights, and stranded nights just to chase the sunset with him. I love those moments when we sit back, have our breaths be taken away, gaze far, and talk about our hopes and dreams. Just as long as we're together, then I could not ask for anything more.
Although I wish we were born rich with trust funds and all so we can travel the world and never have to worry about running out of money or Vacation Leave credits. We still have a lot to scratch off our bucket bakit list. We'll go places, do things, and answer questions like, "Mahirap naman pumunta dyan, bakit yan ang pinili nyo?", "Bakit nyo ginagawa yan?", "Bakit nyo pa sinubukan? Alam nyo nang delikado" (hashtag that #nganonienter). At marami pa kaming sasagutin sa tanong na "bakit", which could only mean marami pa kaming lugar na tutuklasin.
Counting the days with less than a week left. Damn, this waiting game is killing me! Fast forward to Thursday na please.
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| I just realized we don't have any bus or airplane selfies, kaya ito na lang. One of our first few travels. December 2013. |
Do Not Ever Hit the Snooze Button
By Sarah Aterrado - September 05, 2016
Because it's going to ruin your life.
I just got my payslip and cringed at the tax that I had to pay. But what really turned my stomach was the amount of deduction from my salary.
All because of that snooze button.
I just got my payslip and cringed at the tax that I had to pay. But what really turned my stomach was the amount of deduction from my salary.
All because of that snooze button.
WARNING: This will be another cheesy random blog post.
Although that warning wouldn't really matter because, apparently, everyone in this planet loves cheese...
Except me.
It's probably what people will remember me by. The girl who hates cheese.
Although that warning wouldn't really matter because, apparently, everyone in this planet loves cheese...
Except me.
It's probably what people will remember me by. The girl who hates cheese.
I barely use beauty products, especially on my face. Since I am always in a hurry (read: lazy), my daily facial routine includes: washing, moisturizing, and applying baby powder only. Nothing more, nothing less. I really didn't care until a legion of tiny red minions started breaking out lately, and perhaps my
frequent exposure to the sun is responsible for the fine lines that's
starting to get a little noticeable on my face. Yes, I can get a little
conscious too.
I am thinking, if I'm gonna be a hot momma in my 50s, then I have to take care of my skin as early as now.
Thankfully, HairFood Co. exists and sent me wonderful goodies for my skin and hair. But since I will be talking about skin care here, the (now-favorite) hair care products will have a share of the spotlight in another post. Please stay tuned for that.
I am thinking, if I'm gonna be a hot momma in my 50s, then I have to take care of my skin as early as now.
Thankfully, HairFood Co. exists and sent me wonderful goodies for my skin and hair. But since I will be talking about skin care here, the (now-favorite) hair care products will have a share of the spotlight in another post. Please stay tuned for that.
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| Thank you so much, HairFood Co. |
