It's August. Cheeses, where did time go?!
I have made it more than halfway through 2015 and thought it would be good to see how I'm doing. I know it's still early to say this but so far 2015 turned out quite well. Although turning 30 this year didn't seem to have a really big impact in my life like how I expected it should be. Perhaps I am still having a hard time realizing that I've lived three decades already because deep inside, I still feel like I'm in my early twenties or maybe even younger. But of course, for 30 years, I've seen how life can sometimes be sneaky in delivering valuable lessons right in front of me. And there were those times that I just wish I had known them sooner in life. Just like...
I have made it more than halfway through 2015 and thought it would be good to see how I'm doing. I know it's still early to say this but so far 2015 turned out quite well. Although turning 30 this year didn't seem to have a really big impact in my life like how I expected it should be. Perhaps I am still having a hard time realizing that I've lived three decades already because deep inside, I still feel like I'm in my early twenties or maybe even younger. But of course, for 30 years, I've seen how life can sometimes be sneaky in delivering valuable lessons right in front of me. And there were those times that I just wish I had known them sooner in life. Just like...
Exploring Panglao: Dolphin Watching - Balicasag Snorkeling - Virgin Island
By Sarah Aterrado - July 30, 2015
Sun, sand, and the sea. What else can make me more excited?
Dolphins.
Yes, dolphins.
I've always wanted to go swimming with the dolphins *points at the bucket list at the bottom right side of this blog*. No, I haven't swam with one. Not yet. But dolphin watching is the closest it can get. :)
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| Virgin Island. Where the water meets the heavens. |
Dolphins.
Yes, dolphins.
I've always wanted to go swimming with the dolphins *points at the bucket list at the bottom right side of this blog*. No, I haven't swam with one. Not yet. But dolphin watching is the closest it can get. :)
Okay, I admit it. This is the first time I have traveled again by plane after so many years. And I'm glad to have experienced it with Jan. We've been going around Mindanao lately, and I think it's about time we put our travels a notch up. I believe we needed this getaway. It's the only time we have until we grind our heads back to work again.
We decided to go backpacking to Bohol via Cebu since both of us have never been there. We weren't able to visit all tourist spots in Bohol though as the weather made sure of that. But we made sure that we get to see the famous Chocolate Hills and the tarsiers.
The Chocolate Hills are amazing in actual than just seeing them in pictures. Actually, I didn't expect a lot from it, but we were awed of its splendor and beauty.
We decided to go backpacking to Bohol via Cebu since both of us have never been there. We weren't able to visit all tourist spots in Bohol though as the weather made sure of that. But we made sure that we get to see the famous Chocolate Hills and the tarsiers.
Look what came into the mail today! Meet my new slaves of creative expression. After hoarding almost all ball point sizes of Uni Pin pigment ink pens, and now this, I don't want to think things are just starting to get out of hand. Who can resist them, Sharpies?
I am addicted. But I'm not on crack. If I am, then I would say the office supply stores are my drug dealer. I don't know what's with these bookstores and office depots that they always render me powerless. They are evil and I'm vulnerable. There's a force that drags me right into it, put me on a trance as I pass from one aisle to another, and I never leave without clutching a thing or two.
I am addicted. But I'm not on crack. If I am, then I would say the office supply stores are my drug dealer. I don't know what's with these bookstores and office depots that they always render me powerless. They are evil and I'm vulnerable. There's a force that drags me right into it, put me on a trance as I pass from one aisle to another, and I never leave without clutching a thing or two.
There are artists here in the Philippines that I really admire (and envy) for their first-rate art skills. To name some would be: 1.) the creative dork, Aseo. He is undeniably, one of the greatest illustrators/digital artists to date; and, 2.) Kerby, one of the most talented sketch masters I've ever known.
I've been following these artists since time immemorial and even created some artworks inspired by them. I've done vectors and vexels before. And I know it would take years of practice before I get on par with Aseo. But at least, I tried. :)
Anyway, today (actually, not just today), Kerby inspired me to doodle. I saw his DIY Pen holder and thought I'd make one too.
I feel a little creative. Hence,
I've been following these artists since time immemorial and even created some artworks inspired by them. I've done vectors and vexels before. And I know it would take years of practice before I get on par with Aseo. But at least, I tried. :)
Anyway, today (actually, not just today), Kerby inspired me to doodle. I saw his DIY Pen holder and thought I'd make one too.
I feel a little creative. Hence,
Jan came over yesterday because it's my nephew's first birthday. We decided to watch a movie after stuffing our tummies with the yummies. I wanted to watch something light, so he recommended Easy A. I thought it was just another sloppy teen comedy but the nonstop wisecracks kept me absorbed that even my chick-flick-hating self absolutely loved it. And yes, not only because it is Emma Stone, but it is funny and smart as well.
Just so you know, I am not really into movies. I'm not the type who likes to just sit still and watch passively. So if you're one of my friends who's been to the movies with me, then perhaps you're one of those who got annoyed with my incessant blabbing of movie flaws, logic, and inconsistencies because unfortunately I have the ability not to ignore small things that don't make sense. No wonder I get constantly told, "pagtan-aw na lang gud dira!" (Shut up and just watch the goddamn movie!)
Just so you know, I am not really into movies. I'm not the type who likes to just sit still and watch passively. So if you're one of my friends who's been to the movies with me, then perhaps you're one of those who got annoyed with my incessant blabbing of movie flaws, logic, and inconsistencies because unfortunately I have the ability not to ignore small things that don't make sense. No wonder I get constantly told, "pagtan-aw na lang gud dira!" (Shut up and just watch the goddamn movie!)
I've finally set up my work station. My sacred space. It is still a work in progress though as I plan on putting a cork board and a clock on the wall. And until I don't have a big monitor and a very comfy chair, then I cannot say I'm all set. But for now, I can say my work space is absolutely my favorite place in the house.
Remember how my desk looked before? Well, my blog does. And that was already the tidiest it can get. Thought I'd show you this new sacred sanctuary while it is still in its immaculate form. I know myself well, and I don't think this clean desk will last a week. But I will try to keep things neat every now and then. That's a promise.
Remember how my desk looked before? Well, my blog does. And that was already the tidiest it can get. Thought I'd show you this new sacred sanctuary while it is still in its immaculate form. I know myself well, and I don't think this clean desk will last a week. But I will try to keep things neat every now and then. That's a promise.
I cannot emphasize enough how grateful I am to have a "talent" or at least I say, a knack for art. I have been quite isolated lately. The drastic change of priorities and my responsibilities left me with no choice but to stay home. Believe me, being withdrawn for weeks from the society made me feel burnt out, stressed, and down. When writing just doesn't cut it, becoming creative with pen and paper is all the therapy I need. :)
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| My first attempt to do zentangles. :) |
I am 30 today. And since I've already given myself a treat on the last few hours of the decade that has been my twenties, I decided to stay home, sit in silence and savor the moment being in complete solitude.
If there's one thing I've given myself valuable for my birthday, it is this solitude. Yes, I am used to being alone. But those moments were never profound. I never had this chance of having a complete possession of my own thoughts, my feelings, my senses, and my soul.
If there's one thing I've given myself valuable for my birthday, it is this solitude. Yes, I am used to being alone. But those moments were never profound. I never had this chance of having a complete possession of my own thoughts, my feelings, my senses, and my soul.
Birthday Getaway: Buwis-buhay River Trekking at Amsikong Falls
By Sarah Aterrado - June 22, 2015
Last Saturday, Jan, Bretch, and I trekked General Santos City's hidden gem - the barely touched Amsikong Falls.
The road going there isn't easy. There's not even a road to begin with. Of all my travel adventures, riding a habal-habal is the very least of the things I enjoyed. Heck, I never really liked it at all. I just have a high tolerance for heat, dusts, and leg cramps. And that was it. But believe me when I say I enjoyed this ride. This rough and rocky ride.
Yep, that's the problem. I don't think there's such thing as having enough shelves. Haha. That and bumping into a post or a wall while walking and reading are just few of the many problems a bookworm encounters. Allow me to share with you 15 more. And please, don't take it lightly because the struggle is real.
Confessions Vol. 5: I am fascinated with the Nazis and the Holocaust
By Sarah Aterrado - June 13, 2015
Yesterday, Jan and I watched Schindler's List. It reminded me of my obsession with the Nazis which started back when I saw one of my classmates in Fifth grade drew a swastika symbol (actually it was doodled all over his notebook). I asked him what it was and he started telling me with great enthusiasm about Hitler, the killing of the Jews, and how great of a leader he was. I was fascinated. In fact, too fascinated that I came to the point of always putting a swastika symbol next to my name. Excuse the ignorance, at that very young age, we really did not know what we were so fascinated about. And we had no idea about the darkest days that ever happened in human history. All we knew back then was that it looked cool bearing that swastika.
Since then, I've shown interest about the Nazi - from the documentaries, to books, to everything about Hitler. I've read Mein Kampf, The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich, a few other books with titles that I could no longer recall, and some fiction/non-fics that I have on my shelf that have eventually opened my eyes and led me to disgust Hitler and his mustache. And it's such a shame that I've been claiming to be obsessed with such yet I haven't watched Schindler's List until yesterday. I'm more devoted in books than on movies though. Well, what can I say? Schindler's List is one of the most powerful films I've ever seen. Even more powerful than the neo-Nazi setting film, American History X.
I am still fascinated with anything related to the Nazi regime. But my interest is fueled not on the ideologies of Hitler and the monstrosities brought about by his equally evil followers. The Nazis embody nothing but pure evil. Everything under the regime is downright despicable. And I don't want to think I'm exaggerating. However, I admit that at a certain level, I have admired Hitler's reign. I do give credit how great Hitler was. I mean, I think it's worth understanding how humans fell under the influence of one person who motivated a nation to such an ideological level, isn't it? It is undeniably amazing. Really.
Since then, I've shown interest about the Nazi - from the documentaries, to books, to everything about Hitler. I've read Mein Kampf, The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich, a few other books with titles that I could no longer recall, and some fiction/non-fics that I have on my shelf that have eventually opened my eyes and led me to disgust Hitler and his mustache. And it's such a shame that I've been claiming to be obsessed with such yet I haven't watched Schindler's List until yesterday. I'm more devoted in books than on movies though. Well, what can I say? Schindler's List is one of the most powerful films I've ever seen. Even more powerful than the neo-Nazi setting film, American History X.
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| Some of the most compelling Nazi/Holocaust books that I have. |
Whenever something big or a drastic change happens in your life, you end up explaining a thousand times what the eff just happened and why. Case in point, the day I said goodbye to my normal/regular (or however you call it) office day job.
I love how my close friends eagerly asked for details about what I am going through, the changes - be it negative or positive - in my life, how am I coping, and what my plans are. I am happy to know that people care. And I apologize if I'm not too keen on details. It's not that I don't have the guts to tell you about the crap I went through, it's just that I'm too lazy to lay it all down (again and again and again). I am totally fine, I promise.
Okay, that's a lie. Truth is, I never expected I'd go through a phase of separation anxiety that I found myself binge-eating on Snickers and pathetically watching videos of funny animals. And funny babies. And Spongebob Squarepants. I tried to read a book and catch up with the tv series I've been missing. Apparently, nothing works. I still feel a little bit down.
I love how my close friends eagerly asked for details about what I am going through, the changes - be it negative or positive - in my life, how am I coping, and what my plans are. I am happy to know that people care. And I apologize if I'm not too keen on details. It's not that I don't have the guts to tell you about the crap I went through, it's just that I'm too lazy to lay it all down (again and again and again). I am totally fine, I promise.
Okay, that's a lie. Truth is, I never expected I'd go through a phase of separation anxiety that I found myself binge-eating on Snickers and pathetically watching videos of funny animals. And funny babies. And Spongebob Squarepants. I tried to read a book and catch up with the tv series I've been missing. Apparently, nothing works. I still feel a little bit down.
Anticipation is creeping in. 2 hours. 2 hours more and everything will be shut down, signed out, and perhaps forgotten. My desk that used to be a home of a cutesy pup plushie, scratch papers, post-its, and candy wrappers now screams emptiness. This room, once a nest of brilliant people fueled by passion, is now an empty space only filled with the deafening chorus of the air condition and our keyboard strokes.
Nothing is going to be certain from here. But there's one thing that I am sure of, I will miss the people who showed me support and encouragement at times of pressure and failure which ultimately led me to discover my inner strength and true capabilities. My colleagues, workadas, friends, or however I call them, have become and will always be a family to me.
Nothing is going to be certain from here. But there's one thing that I am sure of, I will miss the people who showed me support and encouragement at times of pressure and failure which ultimately led me to discover my inner strength and true capabilities. My colleagues, workadas, friends, or however I call them, have become and will always be a family to me.
Here comes my birthday month. I never really look forward on my birthdays like most people do. And I think I have my school to blame for that.
You see, during my pre-school and grade school days, birthdays would mean getting exposed to the first and basic form of public humiliation - to be called in front of the class and everybody sings happy birthday while you stand there awkwardly, not knowing what to do and how to react. Am I supposed to smile? Should I make eye contact? Or just look how perfectly polished my shoes were because I know my classmates were secretly laughing at me? I never got used to it. I can never really get used to that kind of attention.
You see, during my pre-school and grade school days, birthdays would mean getting exposed to the first and basic form of public humiliation - to be called in front of the class and everybody sings happy birthday while you stand there awkwardly, not knowing what to do and how to react. Am I supposed to smile? Should I make eye contact? Or just look how perfectly polished my shoes were because I know my classmates were secretly laughing at me? I never got used to it. I can never really get used to that kind of attention.
I feel so horrible right now. I just realized that no matter how patient I can be, when it comes to my child, all hell breaks loose and I turn into a monster. I am dead serious when I say nobody messes with my kid. Nobody.
I didn't realize what I just did until somebody pointed out that I might have overreacted. Yes, I think my reaction went over the top. But it was something I could not really help. It was though I am a lioness protecting her cub from a perpetrator. And nothing could ever stop me. Fury was burning inside and I was consumed with rage. To see my child cry and cower, I completely lost it.
I didn't realize what I just did until somebody pointed out that I might have overreacted. Yes, I think my reaction went over the top. But it was something I could not really help. It was though I am a lioness protecting her cub from a perpetrator. And nothing could ever stop me. Fury was burning inside and I was consumed with rage. To see my child cry and cower, I completely lost it.
Today, I got to take part in Color Manila Run. This isn't the first time I have joined a Color Run, but this is definitely the most awesome Color Run I have ever joined to date. Although admittingly, I've only joined two color runs my entire life. Hehe.
Color Manila has been known for always pulling off the biggest, most colorful, and most awesome color fun runs across the Philippines. They indeed know how to put the "fun" in Fun Run. And to make it more awesome, Color Manila has teamed up with Brother Philippines to which the event highlights Brother's New Refill Tank System.
Hello Sarah,
I'm sorry to interrupt the Chip War. I know things are getting pretty intense right there but this is something you need to know asap. Besides, the Accretians are probably going to win again anyway. So I hope you don't mind if I ask you take a back seat from RF Online for awhile and listen to what I am going say.
Do you recognize me? Probably not with the curly hair I'm sporting on. I've added an extra weight too. Well, just a little bit. Before you freak out and accuse me being a stalker, relax. It's just me, your future self. I'm writing this while I am taking a break at the office as I enjoy the beautiful view of the sea on my right. Yes, you've read that right. I'm working in an office doing stuff that has something to do with pixels and points, HTML5/CSS3, UI/UX, iOS and Android - things you apparently don't understand right now. You might be confused, but soon you'll find out why and how I ended up here.
"All you need is love... love is all you need..."
I'm sorry to burst your bubble Mr. John Lennon, but I have to disagree with you on this. Love is not all you need. Love is not enough. Yep, I say that loud and clear.
When it comes to relationships, many of us overrate and oftentimes overestimate love. We rely too much on love that we'd think it is the answer to our struggles, the ultimate solution to our relationship goals, the one that conquers all. And while we believe and idealize this thought, little do we know that it is our relationships that pay the price. I believe in not relying our relationships on feelings of love alone because it might be too late to find ourselves drowning in a deep pile of shit when a problem occurs that love cannot solve. Trust me, I've been there and it was not pretty.
Hello, folks! I'm back. While everyone is still not over today's boxing match's big let down, I finally got over with being lazy in writing the next post of my two-part blog. You can read the first part of our misadventure here.
Here goes for the second part...
So Jan and I made it down the mountain. It was already sundown and we had no idea where we were. There were no vehicles to take us to town and we really needed to find a place to eat and stay for the night. Good thing, we met friendly people who told us the nearest resort is just 2 kms away.
Here goes for the second part...
So Jan and I made it down the mountain. It was already sundown and we had no idea where we were. There were no vehicles to take us to town and we really needed to find a place to eat and stay for the night. Good thing, we met friendly people who told us the nearest resort is just 2 kms away.
We've already trekked steep and rugged terrains, a simple 2-km trek is just a piece of cake. We walked in a relaxed pace knowing we can almost call it a day. Then somewhere in between the rough and rocky road, I saw a familar sight. We're in Canibad! Well, after the horror of getting lost in the mountain, we deserve a place to chill and relax. And I guess, the odds were in our favor this time... Canibad is just perfect.
We hastened our steps to get to the resort as soon as we can. We're exhausted and we really need to eat and rest. But much to our dismay, every resort was already fully booked. Going to the nearest town is definitely out of the question because the road in Canibad is unforgiving and since it's already night, no one would take us to town anyway.
Thankfully, the Madyaw Resort caretaker Ate Jovy was too kind to let us sleep in one of the rooms that's not really for guest use (a storage room, as a matter of fact). The odds were indeed in our favor. I guess, she took pity on us after seeing our condition: sweat dripping, weary, exhausted, and really hungry. The room's not much - far from the luxurious rooms couples usually get for their anniversaries. Haha. But still, we're thankful it has a mat on a tiny bamboo bed, an electric fan that barely gives off air, and a newly installed led light for us to use. We are really really really grateful for it. Magiging choosy pa ba naman kami?
The following morning greeted us with a sore body. De-stressing at the beach is just what we needed. I would like to think that getting lost was a blessing in disguise for we ended up in a little paradise. I know I suck at taking pictures. But oh well, what more can I say? We enjoyed this getaway and I'll let the pictures speak for itself. :)
Of course, at the end of the day, a deep muscle full body massage is imperative.
That's it. :)
Thoughts About the Anniversary Getaway
I love how our outdoor adventures can be both exciting and romantic. I love how we are a great team no matter where we are - be it on a highland, underwater, or underground. That we can laugh even at the random shit happening to us. That we can get really comfortable with all the uncomfortable things. That we know we can lean on each other during our absolute worst. I love how we learned to be strong for ourselves and each other. Doing new things coupled with a good conversation can indeed do a lot of wonders to a relationship.
Our anniversary getaway has taught me a lot of things. This hike was able to push our thresholds, patience, and endurance. Our physical, mental, and emotional state were all tested to the limits and I am glad we're able to work through the hard times. And I believe it just made us even closer together. :)
We hastened our steps to get to the resort as soon as we can. We're exhausted and we really need to eat and rest. But much to our dismay, every resort was already fully booked. Going to the nearest town is definitely out of the question because the road in Canibad is unforgiving and since it's already night, no one would take us to town anyway.
Thankfully, the Madyaw Resort caretaker Ate Jovy was too kind to let us sleep in one of the rooms that's not really for guest use (a storage room, as a matter of fact). The odds were indeed in our favor. I guess, she took pity on us after seeing our condition: sweat dripping, weary, exhausted, and really hungry. The room's not much - far from the luxurious rooms couples usually get for their anniversaries. Haha. But still, we're thankful it has a mat on a tiny bamboo bed, an electric fan that barely gives off air, and a newly installed led light for us to use. We are really really really grateful for it. Magiging choosy pa ba naman kami?
The following morning greeted us with a sore body. De-stressing at the beach is just what we needed. I would like to think that getting lost was a blessing in disguise for we ended up in a little paradise. I know I suck at taking pictures. But oh well, what more can I say? We enjoyed this getaway and I'll let the pictures speak for itself. :)
Of course, at the end of the day, a deep muscle full body massage is imperative.
That's it. :)
Thoughts About the Anniversary Getaway
I love how our outdoor adventures can be both exciting and romantic. I love how we are a great team no matter where we are - be it on a highland, underwater, or underground. That we can laugh even at the random shit happening to us. That we can get really comfortable with all the uncomfortable things. That we know we can lean on each other during our absolute worst. I love how we learned to be strong for ourselves and each other. Doing new things coupled with a good conversation can indeed do a lot of wonders to a relationship.
Our anniversary getaway has taught me a lot of things. This hike was able to push our thresholds, patience, and endurance. Our physical, mental, and emotional state were all tested to the limits and I am glad we're able to work through the hard times. And I believe it just made us even closer together. :)
To celebrate a year of dating and loving, Jan and I decided to climb Mt. Puting Bato - Samal Island's highest peak. Just so you know, Mt. Puting Bato is only 1,755 ft above sea level. It's not that high but this is where I was able to put into heart what other experienced mountaineers always remind me: Never underestimate a mountain.
Now let me tell you about a misadventure that took place on the first day of May that could've cost our lives. Okay, I am just exaggerating. But yes, it could have, if we aren't really prepared and smart enough to outwit trouble.
Our plan was to hike Mt. Puting Bato via Tayapoc trail because basing from our research, it is only a 30-minute hike but steeper compared to Guilon trail which is a 2-hour easy ascent. We, of course, chose the shorter trail to save time as we still have other places to go to.
Now let me tell you about a misadventure that took place on the first day of May that could've cost our lives. Okay, I am just exaggerating. But yes, it could have, if we aren't really prepared and smart enough to outwit trouble.
Our plan was to hike Mt. Puting Bato via Tayapoc trail because basing from our research, it is only a 30-minute hike but steeper compared to Guilon trail which is a 2-hour easy ascent. We, of course, chose the shorter trail to save time as we still have other places to go to.
We started hiking at 1:30pm and reached the peak by 2pm. Just in time. But when we got there, it is not the same Puting Bato that I have climbed about ten years ago. It looks totally different. But the view that was set before us is just the same. Beautiful. Breathtaking. And the feeling of freedom that comes from scaling heights, I think, is the the only thing that doesn't change over time.
I remember the times I get tongue-tied whenever I am asked, "kailan kayo naging kayo?" That is probably the easiest question any couple will come across with. Not in our case though. We're just as clueless as anybody who would ask us the same question.
Kailan nga ba?
Honestly, I do not know exactly when because at some point of our friendship, it just happened. Nothing was ever forced. We were like magnets pulled together in a force we can never break away from. Courtship never even happened - which is actually a good thing because Jan never had to put his best foot forward. But I do remember that a year ago, today, Jan and I made it official for formality's sake. It was nothing cheesy nor romantic at that time. The date didn't even matter.
So it follows we don't celebrate 'monthsaries' either. We think it's rather pointless to count the months that we are together, isn't it? I used to make a big deal out of monthsaries back when I was young and all that mattered to me was that it's something that's befitting for couples in love. Not until I met Jan.
Kailan nga ba?
Honestly, I do not know exactly when because at some point of our friendship, it just happened. Nothing was ever forced. We were like magnets pulled together in a force we can never break away from. Courtship never even happened - which is actually a good thing because Jan never had to put his best foot forward. But I do remember that a year ago, today, Jan and I made it official for formality's sake. It was nothing cheesy nor romantic at that time. The date didn't even matter.
So it follows we don't celebrate 'monthsaries' either. We think it's rather pointless to count the months that we are together, isn't it? I used to make a big deal out of monthsaries back when I was young and all that mattered to me was that it's something that's befitting for couples in love. Not until I met Jan.
That's what I have learned from our 4-day trip in Camiguin. Haha. Kidding aside, this is the first time I have ever visited Northern Mindanao and it was definitely a blast. Camiguin island indeed has a lot of beautiful and interesting places to see. So without further ado, let me show you my short but memorable trip to Camiguin.
WARNING: IMAGES OVERLOAD
While everybody was on a holiday break yesterday, I was out working. And while everyone is working today I'm home and reflecting. The past months have really been a blast. With all those getaways and new things that I have tried, I am seeing my old, free-spirited self again.
It just reminded me of the last four years of my life. That time when motherhood caught me off guard and everything suddenly stopped—in both good and bad way. That time when I would just drop anything to attend to my son's needs. That time when round-the-clock feeding started to take its toll on me as I was never getting enough sleep. And sometimes, I feel dejected that I have found myself on the brink of giving up.
After an exhausting hike at Lake Holon/Mt. Parker and rewarding ourselves with a much needed rest, we went to Lake Sebu the next day to experience the Seven Falls zipline. Just so you know, ziplines no longer excite me. As a matter of fact, I find them boring. The only time a zipline gave me the thrills was the first time I tried it and the rest didn't really satisfy my appetite for adventure and adrenaline. The Seven Falls zipline, however, is by far the best zipline I have ever tried.
Not because it is considered as one of the highest ziplines in Asia nor because it is known as one of the longest in the country, nor because of its speed if you consider that fast, but because of the scenic and breathtaking view of the different waterfalls it offers you while on the ride. The ride was so exhilarating and the views are equally enthralling it can literally take your breath away. We're so happy we've tried this. Look, the pictures will tell you so. :)
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| First Leg: 740m ride |
Not because it is considered as one of the highest ziplines in Asia nor because it is known as one of the longest in the country, nor because of its speed if you consider that fast, but because of the scenic and breathtaking view of the different waterfalls it offers you while on the ride. The ride was so exhilarating and the views are equally enthralling it can literally take your breath away. We're so happy we've tried this. Look, the pictures will tell you so. :)
What have I gotten myself into?
I have asked myself that question a thousand times during our hike to Mt. Parker. And even before we started hiking, the road to the jump off point was already unforgiving. More than an hour of dusty habal-habal ride was just enough for my nostrils to gather up dusts and turn it into the biggest snot I ever had my entire life. Gross, I know. Haha.
I have asked myself that question a thousand times during our hike to Mt. Parker. And even before we started hiking, the road to the jump off point was already unforgiving. More than an hour of dusty habal-habal ride was just enough for my nostrils to gather up dusts and turn it into the biggest snot I ever had my entire life. Gross, I know. Haha.
I may have climbed several mountains before, even with higher elevation than this. But six years of mountaineering hiatus just felt like I am a newbie once again. The only difference is, I still know the essentials of mountain climbing which I still applied during the hike.
Trudging up an easy trail was already a lot of work for me. There are times when I was on the verge of quitting especially when the sun was trying to fry me and my back was about to raise the white flag. But there's no way to quit when you've already covered at least half of the entire hike.
Since we couldn't keep up with our company's pace, Jan and I decided to just enjoy the trail instead. After all, we can't get lost in it as there's only one trail up. We started hiking at our own pace and did several rests in between. Yes, technically, it was only the two of us hiking, constantly checking up on each other, looking for that tiny bird species that can surprisingly make a sound as loud as the ambulance sirens and admiring the unusual flora while others were already way ahead of us.
Since we couldn't keep up with our company's pace, Jan and I decided to just enjoy the trail instead. After all, we can't get lost in it as there's only one trail up. We started hiking at our own pace and did several rests in between. Yes, technically, it was only the two of us hiking, constantly checking up on each other, looking for that tiny bird species that can surprisingly make a sound as loud as the ambulance sirens and admiring the unusual flora while others were already way ahead of us.
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| Our first climb together! |
