The things you forget

One. You said you love me but you decided to end this. You said you have to figure something out for yourself, that there is something you need fixing. You said it’s unfair for me if we’ll continue this relationship when you have lied to me. Far beyond what I want, I heeded your decisions because I know you need time.

Two. I believe in us and so I waited for you to come back to me, to come to your senses, to retract what you’ve already decided. I’ve hopefully waited for you to be with me again but all my hopes were in dire because you chose to be with them more than to be with me. I don’t know what I have done wrong. I chose to believe in us but that doesn’t mean you have the same belief as I am.

Three. I came to accept the fact that maybe, just maybe, you really wanted to be with yourself. I let you be. You need fixing, right? I stopped bugging you. I never bothered to wait for your good night messages, too. But I won’t deny the fact that I still look at my phone from time to time hoping to receive just one good text from you. But like all other hopes, I learned that waiting has also limits, I’ll wait for you, sure, but do not expect me to wait for you for too long.

Four. It’s the second week that you never bothered to ask me anything at all. You didn’t even bother to remind me to eat on time like you used to before. And I’m still hoping to receive just one text from you, that’s how naïve I am to the fact that maybe, just maybe, I can still find pieces of your love stored somewhere in your heart. But of course, I failed. And now I realize that I need to detach myself from you, little by little, even it’s hard, even it hurts the same.

Five.  I’ve been wondering if my heart was induced with some kind of medicine to forget. I somehow managed my weeks the way I live it before. But still, from time to time, I’m thinking about you, hoping you’re okay, hoping you’ve already happy to the choice you made. I’m becoming used to not talking to you. I’m getting used to just being on my own, feeling again the little world I created before. I’m getting used to your absence. And in getting used to that feeling, all I have is myself now. That your absence taught me that I can cure my sadness with my own presence.

SIx. You failed to look me in the eyes like the way you used to. You don’t bother to look through me and see that even after all the pain you brought me, I still cling to you. You’re still the one who gives light to these eyes. But of course, that’s overly distant now. Because now, all I’ve witnessed is how yours drifted as time passed by. You never cared to look at me intently now, ‘cause you’ve been busy eyeing someone else. Look but never understand — maybe you look at me for quite some time, but in the end, you miss the opportunity to understand us and see what we’ve become.

Seven. I’m beginning to accept the fact that time can change things. And memories are best remembered when it is all you’ve got in the end. I probably miss how you find time waiting for me in my jeepney stop and you’re all smiles looking totally excited as I stepped out, and you’ll reach out to me, taking my hand and interlocked it with yours. Together, we’ll walk hand in hand or sometimes your arms around my shoulders, to my next jeepney route. Again, waiting for me to safely get a ride home, and while the conductor is busy filling up the transport, we’ll stare at each other, murmuring repetitively words of affection and we’ll not break our stare even after the jeepney makes it move. Funny how simple that was but it’s your habit after all, making me feel wanted, making me feel that you cared at all.

Eight. But affection, just like love, can fade through time. I don’t know what really happen. We’ve been happy, right, and the next thing I knew, you’re suddenly drifting away. You keep on telling me that you’ve been fed up, tired of all my endless dramas, tired of the habitual things we do. You stop posting our sweet nothings on your social media, and every time I ask you to, you’re ready with your well-crafted reasons. And so I stopped. I stopped bugging you. I let you be. Probably you have your own reasons that I, probably, could not understand  because you could not tell me what it is. And so I was left with questions I don’t know how to answer myself.

Almost nine. It was an exciting almost nine-year we had. I can’t thank you enough for reminding me how braver it is to let go than to hold on. As soon as I can accept the reality that the man I used to know is not the one I am facing right now, I will still looked for you – in distance. I thank you for being with me in my best and worst mood, for being my map when you know I’m the worst navigator. I thank you for being true, for telling me you are tired of us, for being the one to end this, just because I can’t.  If love is not possible in this lifetime, it probably be real in the next. We may not end our story beautifully but know that I still hold on to the beautiful beginning we once had. In the midst of forgetting all of these things, I hope one day, you will remember how we built something beautiful – in the process of loving and hurting at the same time. But for now, it’s time to bid you goodbye.

###

Adrift

When our circumstances are harsh and sorrows outnumber joys, Jesus shouts to us, “Hold everything you’ve got, help is on the way!”

I came across this verse while I was busy monitoring a newspaper. And it struck me how significant it is for me now that I feel something is not working against my favor.

I’ve been at lost for the past weeks. I’ve been feeling totally out of control for everything that is happening to me recently. Things I found so tiring to just get by.

It came to a point where I keep questioning the slow passage of days (even if it’s only Monday, I want the day to pass quickly and wishing for Friday to arrive). I always woke up disinterested in the world, telling myself that this day will pass quickly so I can rest and go home.

And the void I’ve been feeling lately came to a realization that I’ve been missing myself, the one I am before. And it’s hard and unfulfilling.

I miss the girl who laughs and talks so loud. The girl who loves to tell stories, and listening to friends who do the same. I miss the girl who looks forward to mornings because she knows new days offer new opportunities. Most of all, I miss the girl who loves the world and daydreams a lot. I really miss myself now.

I know it’s the emptiness of missing certain people that adds to the desolation I am feeling right now. But somehow, I still believe that there is someone up there, looking down on me, protecting and telling me not to quit but to just rest my heart for now.

I am tired. But every day, I still keep thanking God for the gift of life. I still ask Him for the guidance to fulfill tasks I need to achieve. And most of all, I still love to look up to Him, in that perfect blue sky, whispering to Him, I’ll get through this, Lord. I’ll be fine.

With that, I can somehow survive every day and be courageous enough to say, I made it even if days are hard. I made it even if I feel desolated. I made it even if I feel empty. I made it even if I’m not happy anymore. I made it because I believe You.

Because in between being lost and being find, convincing yourself there’s God will take away all your fears and worries.

In those chaos, I find Him protecting me. ###

Celebrating Women Empowerment through Art

“Feminism isn’t about making women strong. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.” —G.D. Anderson

The most beautiful creation of God is a woman. They  have the power to rule. The power to create. The power  to transform. They can make the world. And most of all, they can rule it. These are just few of the things that a woman can. And all of these signify how strong, determined and amazing women are.

Blessed to be part of a wonderful advocacy, Woman, Create, marked its 3rd year of seeking and fulfilling wonders through art at Hole in the Wall, Century City Mall, Makati, last Saturday (November 25).

The host, Ms. Verns Quintana.

A Philippine-based arts platform organization, Woman, Create aims to continuously empower, engage  and influence people  through art.

Woman, Create‘s theme for this year centers on Big Magic and seeking the pieces that leads people to it. Generally, it wanted people to turn their lives into works of Art and finding Big Magic along the way.

It was also truly enlightening that this event was graced by speakers who shared their passions and purpose in creating art and craft that influence others.

The first speaker who talked about Intention and Connection was Ms. Clarisse Provido, a visual artist specialising in watercolor and collage. She also blogs at Pintura’t Pintig.

Ms. Clarisse Provido.

A freelance writer and travel blogger, Ms. Danna Peña shared her insights about Purposeful Writing. Ms. Danna is also a member of Woman, Create’s #FeministBookClub.

Ms. Danna Peña.

Ms. Chiara Garcia, a storyteller turned creative entrepreneur, meanwhile discussed Creative Community-Building. She is the proud founder of a community-centered production biz called Hey Kin.

 

Ms. Chiara Garcia.

The youngest speaker of the event, Ms. Gabrielle de Baron is a Grade 12 IB-Visual Arts student, who gave talk on how youth can be Present in issues such as Feminism today. Her arts and exhibits tackle issues such as sexual harassment, mental health and womanhood.

Ms. Gabrielle de Baron.

Meanwhile discussing about Our Pursuit of Passion was Ms. Ja Quintana, a Migo Imagineer by day, and an ethnic jazz singer and songwriter by night. She has just returned to performing and writing new songs.

Ms. Ja Quintana.

I was amazed, and at the same time, inspired on how these muses confidently shared their art and passion to other people. Just by listening to these girls talk about how people can contribute to empower women is really encouraging. Sadly, I wasn’t able to finish all the talks because it’s really getting late.

Setting things aside, every year, portion of the planner’s earnings has been given to the plight of Syrian refugees, in particular to SavetheChildren.org – the Syrian campaign. But this year, Ms. Marika Callangan (@projectrika), the founder of Woman, Create, decided to give it to Wipe Every Tear.

Ms. Marika Callangan, founder of Woman, Create. (Credit to the owner)

A Philippine missionary organization, Wipe Every Tear  is dedicated to rescuing girls who have been caught in sex trafficking. It commits to bringing hope and healing in the lives of women. To know and learn more about this advocacy, please be free to visit their website or their Tayo tab.

Planner pick-ups, artist meet-ups and a mini-postcard exhibit also occurred during the event.

As I said earlier, I was blessed to be part of this wonderful advocacy. I was fortunate enough to be one of the contributors of the planner. I was overjoyed that my two poems were blessed to be part of the 2018 Wonder Planner.

From my poem “Lost.”

From my poem “Prelude.”

365 Wonders 2018 is available in the following stores: FullyBooked Fort and Greenhills; CommonRoom Alabang Town Center, Katipunan and CommonRoom PH and Co ATC pop-up space (UGF). It costs Php 1,195.

Jewel Wonder Collage cover. (Credit to the owner)

I truly enjoyed the launching, and as I was inspired by all the talks I’ve heard, I will continue to pursue my passion just so I can inspire others, too. I will ignite the living writer in me, continue creating art and share this craft to the world (it’s possible, I know).

And so, to all the days that will come, with the stillness of my heart, I will take courage to keep living my dream — filled with wonder and intention. Seek the Big Magic, folks!

Somewhere

I am lost.

See, I do not know where I am heading. Left or right. Forward or backward. There are a lot of things going around and I can’t seem to comprehend why things happen the way it is. Things keep bugging me and I can’t seem to stop it, because the truth is, I really can’t. Because there is a more powerful being, up there, who knows the reason for all of these.

And so I realized, I need to freshen up my mind and to sort things out. There is no easy route towards change than to see that you’ve actually grown — heart and mind. Change is necessary when things get too habitual. When there’s nothing left of you than to grow and face what fears you.

The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you can’t do. So try new things. Explore. For the past years, I’ve realized that the best kind of woman is the one who stood up for what she believes. The woman who lives up her dreams. And so I will keep on dreaming and to achieve it soon.

I am lost.

But I know sooner where I am heading.

I am heading somewhere. Somewhere where all my dreams, plans, and aspirations come into reality.

I am lost.

But with God’s grace, He will grant my heart’s desire. Surely, I will. Surely, I can.

I don’t know where I am going, but I’m on my way.

Because for whatever I lost, I will find.###

The Wonders of Ilocos

“To move, to breathe, to fly, to float,
To gain all while you give,
To roam the roads of lands remote,
To travel is to live.”
― Hans Christian Andersen, The Fairy Tale of My Life: An Autobiography

It was really an exhilarating feeling when you plan something and end up doing it. It seems like there is no turning back but only moving forward. And yes, it is no wonder that I’m so excited to share the exciting adventure my friends and I have achieved, and that is to wander the beautiful region of Ilocos.

The truth is it was only on January that we decided to go to Ilocos, a sudden plan that we made into reality. From then, we searched travel agencies that offer cheap but nice accommodations. We compare packages from time to time and viola, we came across IExplore Travel & Tours.  And after some clarifications and inquiries, it was decided that we travel from March 16-19.

On March 16 (friday night), we were met by Ms. Joy (the one in charge of Iexplore) at Farmer’s Market Cubao. The original time of departure was 9:00 p.m. but apparently, the assigned driver got lost somewhere so we depart thirty minutes later.

Setting aside that small glitch, we were just really excited, so off we go. 🙂

Our first tour started from the beautiful City of Vigan.

DAY 1

• Calle Crisologo

After six to seven hours of travelling, we arrived safely at our first stop: Calle Crisologo at around 5:00 a.m. It was still dark when we wander around the said place. But the lights are good for it adds beauty to the place while we captured some photos.

After which, we were met by our Ilocos tour guide, Ate Karen.  But before we proceed to our next stop, we were told to take our breakfast.

• Bantay Church

This is one of the most famous churches in Ilocos Sur. Bantay Church is also called as the Saint Augustine Parish Church.

• Bantay Bell Tower

The said bell tower is located just a few minutes’ walk from Vigan City. It is one of the historic landmarks of the city. It sits on a hill overlooking a beautiful landscape. Here you can capture picturesque view of the beautiful city. 

• Vigan Cathedral

Also known as the  St. Paul’s Cathedral.  It is considered a major religious landmark of northern Luzon. I was amazed by the beauty of the said church as we traversed inside it.

• Plaza Burgos

We , then, proceed to Plaza Burgos. This plaza was built in honor of the martyrdom of Father Jose P. Burgos.

• Plaza Salcedo

Meanwhile, this tourist spot was built to remeber the heroism of  the Spanish conqueror, Juan de Salcedo. Here you can see dancing fountains at night and what struck me was lighted map of the Philippines sprouting from the reflecting pool of the area. It was really awesome.

• Baluarte

This place is a must-see attraction of the city. It houses a mini zoo and it has a collection of different paintings and animals. It lies in hectares of land that stretches from the rolling plain towards the hills. Here, we paid P10.00 as a fee so we can rode a service car going up. There, we were able to see different kinds of animals roaming freely in the area. And on the top of it, we were able to enjoy the private collection  of Mr. Chavit Singson.

• Hidden Garden

After which, our tour guide informed us to take our early lunch in this beautiful place called Hidden Garden. This place is located at the heart of Vigan.

It is popular for its beautiful garden wherein you can find different flowers and herbal plants, along with different potteries.

My friends and i decided to try their very own bagnet sisig and sinanglao. The price is affordable and the dishes are delicious. Naimas!

• Pagburnayan

After our lunch, we head off to Pagburnayan. It is the iconic pottery place in the city. They called these earthenware burnay. These jars are famous among foreign and local tourists for they are really skillfully made.

So to experience the so-called burnay-making, we pushed our friend Sarah to try making one. It was a real fun!

• Ilocos Sur Provincial Jail

Next, we head off to the famous Ilocos Sur Provincial Jail. This is where our late President Elpidio Quirino  was born. This old jail turned museum displays different memorabilia of the former President, along with other national treasures of the Northern Luzon.

I was also amazed by the different paintings/drawings displayed on the museum because as our tour guide shared, those paintings hold a surrealistic story behind.

By afternoon, we proceed to the wonderful city of Laoag, Ilocos Norte.

• Paoay Church

The St. Augustine Church or most commonly known as Paoay Church is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. It is also a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site.

I must say that the beauty of this church is so captivating. I was moved by how this old church stood the test of time. Upon entering the said church, I was easily at peace. It is really a must-see destination.

• Malacanang of the North  and Marcos Mausoleum

Ilocos Norte also has its own version of Malacañan Palace. It is the Malacanang of the North or what the locals referred to as Malacañang ti Amianan. It is one of the important landmarks of the region as this has been the official residence/rest house of the late President Ferdinand Marcos and his family whenever they are in Ilocos. Aside from the memorabilia of the late President inside, this majestic mansion showcases different antique furniture and interesting art pieces.

Such a splendid view outside the mansion.

• Sand Dunes

My Ilocos tour is one of the unforgettable moments in my life just because of this adrenaline rushing adventure which is the 4 x 4 ride and sand boarding in the stirring La Paz Sand Dunes.

The ride was really breathtaking (for the view of the place itself) and breathless (for the heart pumping tour going up and down the dunes). We literally lose our voice after the extreme ride but it was really awesome!

Sand boarding was fun, too. At first, I do not attempt to try it because of fear that I will be out of balance (after reading other blog posts regarding this activity). But after watching others do it, I decided to try it.

I really enjoyed all the activities here and if given the chance, i will surely go back and try again this extreme experience.

We ended our first day tour right after the extreme sand dunes experience. After which, we took our dinner along the way and proceeded to Century Garden Hotel, our assigned lodging.

Taking our break, we tried the famous Ilocos Empanada. It tasted so good!

Century Garden Hotel

I love watching sunrise. This one’s taken behind our hotel room at Century Garden Hotel.

DAY 2

The next day, we began our Pagudpud tour. Along the way, we saw the restless South China sea.

• Cape Bojeador

Situated on a rocky promontory near the town of Burgos is the historical Cape Bojeador lighthouse. It was said that the lighthouse was known for its ghost stories but we can’t keep ourselves from seeing this attractive place.

Climbing up, it was very peaceful. I can say that the blue sky adds to the magnificent view of the lighthouse just as you look upward.

• Kapurpurawan Rock Formation

Right after Cape Bojeador, we went straight to Kapurpurawan. Located on the rocky coast of Burgos, Ilocos Norte,the Kapurpurawan rock formation is known for its creamy white and unique limestone formations, which have been sculpted by different oceanic and weather forces.

We walked for about 10-20 minutes just to see this unique rock formation and I will say that even with the scorching heat of the sun, the effort was worth it. So when you plan on visiting this place, I remind you to bring water, hat/umbrella, towels or even fan.

• Bangui Windmills

Our next stop was the famous Bangui Windmills.  One should never miss this extremely enormous blades rotating in the sky. I was astonished when I first saw these giant turbines because I really don’t have any idea how big they are. It is really quite a sight for tourist. Our tourist guide also warned us to stay away from the shore, which is basically the South China sea, because of its strong wave current.

Beautiful windmill souvenirs.

We took our lunch after which, then we go along the Patapat (Bridge) Viaduct.

• Patapat (Bridge) Viaduct

One of the most photographed destination of Pagudpud, this bridge connects the Maharlika Highway in Laoag to the Cagayan Valley.

We only stayed here for a while but it was the scenery of the place that was so hard not to notice.

Our next itinerary should take us to Hannah’s Beach Resort (Blue lagoon), but apparently, our tour guide knows the best resorts in the place and she led us to Saud beach Resort.

• Saud Beach Resort

One of the well-known resort in the northwest of Luzon, the place was breathtaking. We also enjoyed the blueness of the sea and its white sand. It was spectacular.

We left the said resort at 4:00 p.m. because the ride going back to our hotel will take us long.

• Pagudpud Arc

But along the way, we were able to take a picture in the famous Pagudpud Arc.

Along the way, also, our tourist guide suggested that we bought our dinner in this grilling place she knew. Her suggestion was superb because the foods there were truly delicious. We decided to buy inihaw na pusit and liempo. And we ate our (last) dinner in our hotel rooms.

DAY 3

We woke just as the sun was rising. It was a heartwarming scene but at the same time, heartbreaking, knowing that this is our last day in Ilocandia. But still, we need to keep on moving and so we just enjoyed our last day in the alluring region of Ilocos.

We first headed to the Ilocos Norte Capitol.

• Ilocos Norte Capitol

Ilocos Norte Capitol is situated just near Laoag City’s main tourist attractions, namely, Museo Ilocos Norte, Marcos Hall of Justice, the Abolition of Tobacco Monopoly Monument, Sinking Bell Tower, and Cathedral of Saint William the Hermit. Here, we took our time taking pictures of other famous attractions near the area.

What left me stunned was the colorful umbrella canopy in the streets beside the Laoag City Hall and Marcos Hall of Justice.  It was a real beauty. Those eye-catching interconnected umbrellas somewhat provides positive vibes to whoever take a sight of it.

After our tour to Ilocos Norte capitol, Ate Karen bid farewell to us. It was an amazing experience with her as our tour guide. I like her because she is really knowledgeable about the place, foods, and other sort of things. She is really good. It was a privilege knowing someone like her.

For our last stop, we returned to the place where we begin — Vigan. We just bought souvenirs and other pasalubong here — like the prominent Vigan Longganisa.

It was a great and unforgettable adventure knowing the beautiful region of Ilocos. I’ve got to know lots of stuff, history, culture, traditions and gems of the said place. It was astounding!

For three days and two nights, Ilocos has taught me life itself — that there is beauty in discovering something you don’t know, and in seeking for the unknown, you will realize that there is more to life than just looking. In the end, you need to find what you are looking and be able to appreciate it. Because there are hidden jewels in this life that is so precious and significant. It is the kind of treasure you will carry all throughout your life and that is experience.

Ilocos is a real gem. Ilocos is love. Go see it yourself!  🙂

Sunday with Mitch Albom and the Thousands of People you meet in Glorietta

Eight long hours.

These hours took me to wait patiently, hopefully and positively in long lines of overcrowded people. A line that connects avid readers of Tuesdays with Morrie, The Five People you meet in heaven and The first phone call from heaven, (among other best selling books) from one of the best international authors in the world, Mr. Mitch Albom.

Far from what I’ve expected, thousands of fans gathered inside Glorietta Activity Center. I’ve come at the said place at 11:00 not knowing that the line will brought me outside (tired, hungry, sweat pouring, irritable, leg aching) until 2:15 in the afternoon.

Time recapped.

By 11:00 a.m., I bought another copy of The first phone call from heaven. I’ve asked my co-readers for the last line and they pointed me outside. I was greeted by hundreds of other hopeful fans and finding the last line readily made my head ached. The line was moving very slowly.

Waiting in line.

By 12:00, we took our lunch while standing. Imagine the hard scenario.

At 12:30 p.m., we were advised by a n event coordinator of National Bookstore that the last person (right before an assistant of NBS who held a placard) will be the last one to be permitted inside to have a book signed.

Seeing a bad news

What to expect? Of course, an angry mob do not let it happen and we totally freaked out. Why? We almost stood there for hours, waiting in vain just to have our book signed. I was disappointed of how unorganized NBS was.

Despite of the bad news we got, we do not give up. I was thankful because our efforts do have a positive result. At 2:15 p.m., we were allowed to go inside the activity center and there he was… OMG! Mitch Albom. 🙂

Meet Mr. Albom 🙂

There were really a huge number of people inside. Still, we have our lines but we’ve got to take pictures of Mr. Albom while he was at the backstage. And I can’t keep myself from screaming after I heard his voice. Wow! All our hardships subside. Maybe my screaming was just my way of proving that despite all difficulties of waiting in line, I really love Mr. Mitch. This is my first time attending a book signing event and I think it was an unforgettable experience.

Backstage. Albom smiles to fans.

Time passed easily. It was getting really late. We still do not have a signing pass. Were just another bunch of hopefuls.

By 7:30 in the evening, an event coordinator  approached us and explaining the “stub” thing. So we were told that we can still have our books signed by filling up a stub form but the consequences are: (1) we need to left our books with the stub and to claim it on February 27 onwards and (2) we will not able to go near Mr. Mitch and have pictures with him, anymore.

Meeting Mr. Mitch is one of my biggest dreams. I am not a person who gives up easily. But this one thing, well, I have to decide and weigh situations properly.  There were still a huge number of people waiting and we do not know if we will still be entertained, and so, I’ve decided to do the stub thing.

Hopeful

I may not able to meet Mr. Mitch face to face and have a picture taken together, but I think I have achieved a remarkable thing in my life. My efforts have shown how I tried so hard to reach for a star that I can only meet once in a lifetime. Having their book signed by their favorite authors is one of the best feeling a book lover could get.

I am now waiting for next week to have my book signed by Mr. Mitch. Yesterday was really an amazing experience for me. I have exerted too much effort and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved. I love Mr. Mitch Albom. I will still be one of his supportive fans, waiting to meet him personally one day, and silently praying for his success, even from a distance. 🙂

Hello, Mr. Mitch Albom! 🙂

A Letter of Love

“I finally understood what true love meant…love meant that you care for another person’s happiness more than your own, no matter how painful the choices you face might be.”  ~Dear John (Nicholas Sparks)

Dear RJ,

Five years. It has been our fifth year together, celebrating Valentine. It is really amazing how we love to spend important occasions in our life. They say girls remember more when it comes to significant dates (but, I beg to disagree) because you remember more than I can.

You give me the best of everything. As a matter of fact, you give me more than I deserve. You love to make me happy, and I love the way you do it. 🙂 Just last friday, someone told you that you’re lucky to have me, but no! because you know what? I’m lucky to have you.

You made every effort to see me despite our busy schedules. Though I always rejects you’re proposal, you always tend to understand. We argue, yes, but you’re always the one who quits just so I can win. I’m your strength, you say, but guess what? You’re my superman, my hero, my protector, in every other way. 🙂

We love to tell each other stories. We love to laugh loudly, even we’re in public places. I say, I don’t care what will they say, because when I’m with you, it’s as if time stood still. You became my world even without noticing it. You’re the one who completes me.

We’re both crazy in love, yes it’s true! I love every bit of you. Your eyes, your smile — because you’re my everything. Loving you is one of the best things I can surely do. To make you happy is the least I can do.

I have been given the reason to wake up each single day knowing there is somene who waits for me. Just hearing your voice makes my blues go away. You’re my stress reliever, my dose of medicine when I’m not okey. You’re my inspiration to go on living.

God gave me one of the best people in this world, of course that’s you! I am so honored to have you. Thank you for almost everything. I love you with all of my heart. I love you because of who you are.

Thank you for loving me despite my imperfections. You gave me your unconditional love and I thank God because He let us cross our ways. Remember always that I am here for you. I can be everything you want me to be, girlfriend, bestfriend, listener, etc. 🙂

Happy Valentine, my love! 🙂 I love you from here to the moon and then back again. ❤

Love,

Eunice

US 🙂

My Valentine Stuffs given by him 🙂

For him 🙂

 

Confessions of a Mickey Mouse murderer

Sound check. Sound check.

Ok, let’s sing! 🙂

Miska Muska, Mickey Mouse
M I C K E Y M O U S E
That’s me
M I C K E Y M O U S E

It’s the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse
Come inside, it’s fun inside
It’s the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse
Roll call

Donald, present
Daisy, here
Goofy, hyuck, here
Pluto, ruff ruff
Minnie, oh, here
Mickey, right here

It’s the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse
Come inside, it’s fun inside
M I C K E Y M O U S E

I love Mickey Mouse.

I used to sing Mickey Mouse Clubhouse’s theme song, twenty months ago. See, I could still remember it.

Let’s talk about Mickey Mouse.

1 Mickey became an instant hit on November 18, 1928 with the release of ‘Steamboat Willie’, the first ever cartoon with synchronised sound. At that time, most other studios were still producing silent films while Disney adopted sound and raised the standard.

2 Walt originally wanted to call Mickey ‘Mortimer Mouse’, and it was changed to ‘Mickey Mouse’ when Walt’s wife Lillian said she felt that ‘Mortimer’ sounded too pompous and suggested another name that personified the qualities of fun and humbleness.

3 In ‘Opry House’, a video short released on March 28, 1929, Mickey started wearing white gloves. He went on to wear them in most of his subsequent appearances until today.

4 Mickey became the first cartoon character to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on November 18, 1978, in honour of his 50th anniversary. The star is located on 6925 Hollywood Boulevard.

5 Disney’s product licensing business began in 1929, when Walt Disney accepted a deal with a stationery company for the right to imprint Mickey Mouse on school writing tablets. This later turned into what is now known as Disney Consumer Products, a multi-billion dollar business.

6 One of the most iconic Mickey Mouse products of all time is the Mickey Mouse wrist watch. The first one was produced by the Ingersoll-Waterbury company in 1933, and it was sold for USD2.95. The company presented Walt Disney with the 25-millionth Mickey Mouse watch in 1957.

7 The creation of Mickey Mouse earned Walt Disney an honorary Academy Award in 1932.

8 Mickey was given his own entry in the Encyclopedia Britannica in 1934.

9 Mickey appeared in colour for the first time in ‘The Band Concert’, which premiered on February 23, 1935.

10 Mickey appeared in black and white for the last time in ‘Mickey’s Kangaroo’, which actually premiered about two months after the first colour one!

11 Mickey Mouse’s feature film debut in ‘Fantasia’ in 1940 as the Sorcerer’s Apprentice was one of his most famous roles ever. The film introduced stereophonic sound to motion pictures through a special sound system called Fantasound, and cost US$2.28 million to make.

12 In 1955, Mickey made his debut on television in The Mickey Mouse Club television show.

13 According to Walt Disney, Mickey and Minnie Mouse have never been married on screen. But, in 1933, during an interview with Film Pictorial, Walt said, “In private life, Mickey is married to Minnie… What it really amounts to is that Minnie is, for screen purposes, his leading lady.”

14 In designing and constructing a Disney theme park or adding the final touches to an attraction, Disney Imagineers subtly “hide” Mickey Mouse silhouettes in plain sight. It later became a tradition known as ‘Hidden Mickeys’.

15 One of Walt Disney’s most famous quotes about his accomplishments is: “I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing—that it was all started by a mouse.” (Source: Deccan Herald)

—–

What’s so important about Mickey Mouse?

Ok, aside from being my favorite cartoon character, I used to collect things with Mickey Mouse designs. My collection includes t-shirt, keychains, scented stationary, notebooks, pens, etc. See, this is how fanatic I am.

I love Mickey for the simple fact that he is cute and I really like his wide smile combined with his large eyes. He is something I would love to hug during cold nights.

But one time, everything has changed…

Why?

I have this bookshelf where I put my most treasured books. This is my only bookshelf that’s why. To avoid getting dust, I covered it with plastic. But for the fourth time, my one and only bookshelf was attacked by, sadly, rats.

Rats. Just like Mickey.

The annoying thing about rats is that they love to bite papers, plastics and anything they found good to eat with. So, I discovered they live inside my bookshelf because they left a mark somewhere in the covered plastic.

I hate it when I remove those books which are peacefully resting in their house. But I really don’t have a choice. One by one, I remove my books and alas! I found their cradle. But sadly, I also found my book’s pages ruined.

All of a sudden, I can feel my blood rose. Anger filled me. I saw three mices still occupying my bookshelf. I’m afraid of rats because they are ugly, dirty and they emit foul smell when urinating. So I sought the help of my mom. She courageously picked those mices with tissue paper (so she can’t get bitten and to avoid getting rabies, of course). She was able to kill two of the mice by pinning them but unfortunately, one mice was able to escape. And I was like grrrrrrrr….

Since that day, from time to time, I often checked my bookshelf from any possible rat invasion. And luckily, I haven’t found any the last time I checked. I also swear, deep inside my heart, that I will never ever let any rat invade my life. That’s why, I keep a promise of killing them whenever necessary (sorry for the word, but I am not really an animal killer, I stand corrected but I think, I am a pest killer!) Hey, rats good thing you can’t read, because I want you to know that I will kill you deep within your roots! (evil laugh)

EPILOGUE

I love Mickey Mouse, but maybe, I really don’t. 🙂

100 Positive thoughts to live by

Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.

Life has its ups and downs. 🙂 But if I will sum up my 2013, I will only used one word: BLESSED. Because year 2013 has been very good to me. 🙂

2014 has just started. And as I say goodbye to 2013, let me share today, one hundred positive thoughts I learned from 2013. 🙂

1. God has better plans for us.

2. Think big.

3. Decide for your happiness.

4. Put God first and you will find a joy that lasts.

5. A faith worth having is a faith worth sharing.

6. Be too noble for anger.

7. Always think the best of others.

8. Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things. -Collossians 3:2

9. Nothing is more costly than loving, except not loving.

10. Take time to be alone.

11. It is never too late to have a fresh start with God.

12.Be fair.

13. Be gentle.

14. One day at a time.

15. When God’s answer is negative, His reason is affirmative.

16. God gives His best to those who leave Him the choice.

17. Do not let your possession possess you.

18. Strive for excellence not perfection.

19. Give people a second chance.

20. A fulfilled life is a life full of love for God and others.

21. God hears our prayer.

22. Yesterday is gone.

23. Remember that friendship is a wise investment.

24. Be a blessing to others.

25. Make somene feel extra special.

26. For great is God’s love, higher than the heavens, His faithfulness reaches to the skies. -Psalm 108:4

27. Be kinder than necessary.

28. Love builds a happy home.

29. Joy is a by-product of friendship, faith and focus.

30. Stop to think about today’s blessing.

31. God’s promises are like stars, the darker it gets, the brighter they shine.

32. Look at the sunny side of life.

33. Have no fear of tomorrow.

34. Delight in simple things.

35. Happiness adds and multiplies when you divide it with others.

36. Everything is within your reach.

37. In God’s will is our peace.

38. Don’t sweat the small stuff.

39. We have to toil awhile, endure awhile, believe awhile and never give up.

40. Live, laugh and love your whole life long.

41. Joy is a daily choice not a future hope.

42. Forgiveness is a gift that also benefits the giver.

43. Your presence is a present to the world.

44. Your life can be what you want it to be.

45. Know when to keep silent.

46. Live a life of serenity not regrets.

47. Accept that life isn’t always fair.

48. Take time to pray for someone in need.

49. You can. If you think you can.

50. Life is 10% of what happens to us, and 90% of how we react to it.

51. Most life lessons are learned through pain.

52. Smile, it increases your face value.

53. Life is a series of positive and negative vibes.

54. Imagine a life without Him.

55. To God, all things are possible.

56. A day praying is a day worth spending.

57. Choose to be be happy.

58. Happiness without sacrifice is not happiness.

59. Fall seven times, stand up eight.

60. Do it now, not later.

61. Laugh at your own follies.

62. Life is about being contented.

63. Love and make it real.

64. Today, be grateful for everything you have.

65. Find solace even in unlikely times.

66. Learn to detach.

67. Laugh with God today.

68. Speak your mind.

69. Fill your mind with positive thoughts.

70. Say goodbye and let go.

71. Break away. Fly!

72. Fight and love.

73. Things will get better in time.

74. Keep your faith alive.

75. You can do so much with little faith.

76. Look for better things and pray.

77. Love means preparing yourself to be hurt.

78. Life is about moving on.

79. Let God write your love story.

80.People come and go. Let them.

81. There are people who never stay. Let them go.

82. Letting go is necessary.

83.Cheer up. Fight!

84. Brighten up your day.

85. Two choices: Leave or stay.

86. For You laid your plans on me.

87. Walk in faith.

88. Faith is the ability to not panic.

89.Wear His word.

90. Real love stories never end.

91. Respect life.

92. Extend some help.

93. We have more blessings than we expect.

94. Wildest dream is the first step to reality.

95. Be the reason for someone else’s smile.

96. God’s instructions are important.

97. God will always provide.

98. There are several ways to avoid loving God, one is to deny that we are sinners.

99. Choose to be good even if you’re in the worst day of your life.

100. Seize the day!

Marine Life Exploration: The Manila Ocean Park Adventure

Christmas is really awesome this year! Yeah! Because I, together with my boyfriend, had decided to spend our holiday in the so-called “country’s first-world class marine theme park” which is no other than the “Manila Ocean Park.”

On the 22nd of December, we’ve had walked our way towards the said place located just behind Quirino Grandstand, Manila. Our trip started with a long walk after we alighted in Luneta. Our sweat was really worth it!

By 10 in the morning, I let RJ bought tickets for us. We availed the park’s “Pacific Sky Wonder” promo consisting of nine attractions worth 900 pesos each (never did we regret choosing it because as a matter of fact, we really save our money for this christmas date) 🙂

Anyway, the nine attractions I am talking about are (1) oceanarium, (2) sea lion show, (3) marine life habitat, (4) musical fountain show, (5) jellies exhibit, (6) all star bird show, (7) birds of prey kingdom, (8) penguin talk show and (9) trails to antartica.

We started our adventure inside the Oceanarium. What to expect? Of course, different kinds of sea creatures plus dolphins dancing over your head. 🙂

After that, we took a short break because we’re waiting for the clock to strike 11:00 a.m. for the Sea Lion Show. I really enjoyed the said show because the two sea lion, Izzy and Isabel are really awesome to watch. They are also amusing. I end up laughing and clapping. 🙂

Next, we go to the Birds of Prey Kingdom. What to see? A number of  wild hawks. Good thing, we’ve got to take a picture of one of those hawks comfortably resting in the corner. But you know what? It is not advisable to take pictures inside this attraction because it is really dangerous. So take your own risks. 🙂

Another enjoyable attraction we’ve enjoyed is the Jellies Exhibit. Inside the place features different kinds of jelly fish swimming with colorful lights. I found it beautiful. 🙂

We’ve taken our lunch after which. 🙂

By 2:00 p.m., we’ve literally ran towards the All Star Bird Show. There, we watched how talented parrots are. 🙂 Those parrots deserve our claps. 🙂

Next, we go to Penguin Talk Show. What to expect? A talking penguin in a movie-like drama. Well, that penguin has relay on us additional facts about their lives. Great! 🙂

We go ahead the Marine Life Habitat, next. This is where the sea lions lived. This is where Izzy and Isabel freely swims inside a big aquarium. 🙂

Last but not the least (because this is the real reason why I want to go in this theme park), we excitedly go to Trails to Antartica. This cold place filled with snow is what I really enjoyed most. It’s really cold inside but I was disappointed because I haven’t tried all the attractions inside like taking picture with the real penguins and to slide down snow-capped land. Why? Because I excitedly go inside the snow village, not knowing that it is the last place to go because next will be the exit. 😦 I also slipped inside the snow village (my back and hips ached for two days).

Though we decided not to watched anymore the musical fountain show (6:30 p.m. is the scheduled time), overall, I really enjoyed our adventure. Ocean Park (though I’ve expected too much with this place) has taken away my stress. It gave me the reason to enjoy nature and to care for marine habitat. 🙂

More than the tiresome activities, I will surely not forget the happy memories inside this theme park. Because happy memories will never fade like that. It will be etched forever inside your mind and heart, as long as you want it to be. 🙂