CRAFTY BLOGISTA

Kikay Crafts on Etsy

2010-01-18T23:49:00.002+08:00

HTTP://KIKAYCRAFTS.LIVEJOURNAL.COM

Etsy: Your place to buy & sell all things handmade
kikaycrafts.etsy.com

CLOSING CYCLES by Paolo Coelho

2007-08-17T09:41:00.000+08:00

One always has to know when a stage comes to an end. If we insist on staying longer than the necessary time, we lose the happiness and the meaning of the other stages we have to go through.

Closing cycles, shutting doors, ending chapters whatever name we give it, what matters is to leave in the past the moments of life that have finished. Did you lose your job? Has a loving relationship come to an end? Did you leave your parents' house? Gone to live abroad? Has a long-lasting friendship ended all of a sudden?

You can spend a long time wondering why this has happened. You can tell yourself you won't take another step until you find out why certain things that were so important and so solid in your life have turned into dust, just like that. But such an attitude will be awfully stressing for everyone involved: your parents, your husband or wife, your friends, your children, your sister, everyone will be finishing chapters, turning over new leaves, getting on with life, and they will all feel bad seeing you at a standstill.

None of us can be in the present and the past at the same time, not even when we try to understand the things that happen to us. What has passed will not return: we cannot forever be children, late adolescents, sons that feel guilt or rancor towards our parents, lovers who day and night relive an affair with someone who has gone away and has not the least intention of coming back.

Things pass, and the best we can do is to let them really go away.

That is why it is so important (however painful it maybe!) to destroy souvenirs, move, give lots of things away to orphanages, sell or donate the books you have at home. Everything in this visible world is a manifestation of the invisible world, of what is going on in our hearts - and getting rid of certain memories also means making some room for other memories to take their place.

Let things go. Release them. Detach yourself from them. Nobody plays this life with marked cards, so sometimes we win and sometimes we lose. Do not expect anything in return, do not expect your efforts to be appreciated, your genius to be discovered, your love to be understood. Stop turning on your emotional television to watch the same program over and over again, the one that shows how much you suffered from a certain loss: that is only poisoning you, nothing else.

Nothing is more dangerous than not accepting love relationships that are broken off, work that is promised but there is no starting date, decisions that are always put off waiting for the ideal moment.

Before a new chapter is begun, the old one has to be finished: tell yourself that what has passed will never come back. Remember that there was a time when you could live without that thing or that person. Nothing is irreplaceable. A habit is not a need. This may sound so obvious, it may even be difficult, but it is very important.

Closing cycles. Not because of pride, incapacity or arrogance, but simply because that no longer fits your life. Shut the door, change the record, clean the house, shake off the dust. Stop being who you were, and change into who you are.

--------------------------------------
P.S. Finally, after almost 3 years, I've released the hatred from my heart... now I can love again...

Van I really searched for this article... tnx! It's nice... I hope you could also move on from what's holding you back to spread your wings...

To my girlfriends (Prec, Van, Janee, Paz, Ate Darl, Sweet and Joy): Thanks for the group activity that we had... it helped a lot... and thanks for the prayers... I'm slowly getting back to my old self... I love u guys!!!

Chaikofi's Reserved Area

2007-03-26T01:44:00.000+08:00

March 22, 2007

Whoever said that we can't use this reserved area must move over!

It could just be one of our lucky days or charisma maybe, that we managed to use the reserved area of Chaikofi.

It's so cozy and perfect for a barkada get together...

Precious

Sheena

Jac

... or a perfect place to plan for a vacation. (waaaaaahh!!! Gusto kong sumama!!!)

... or a place to celebrate a special ocassion. (One year na kau sa PGH!!! Yipeee!!!)

I loved this crab and mango salad! If you're planning to visit Chaikofi, you must try this one!

Vanilla Frappe

Brewed Coffee

This coffee was brewed using the siphon method. (Super Friendly ng mga crew nila!!! nag-pose pa oh!)

P.S. Sabit lang ako sa lakad na 'to... pero wish ko lang makasama ako s vacation n'yong dalawa... kahit photographer lang... wahehehe!!! One year na kayo sa PGH!!! Congrats mga sis!!! Go UP Manilans!!! We rock!!!

Ward 8 Cuties!!!

2007-03-26T01:15:00.000+08:00

One of the reasons why I keep coming back to Ward 8 (Ortho Ward), where my Lola Nada is currently admitted, is because of these cuties!!!

This little angel got her left leg fractured when she accidentally fell from her 'duyan'.
This is the first time I tried putting a baby to sleep, and I was totally elated by this accomplishment.
===================================================================

While this adorable kid got a benign tumor on his head and right shoulder.

Kyle is a very smart kid and he never fails to amaze me with his tricks. He even dances to the tune of Boom-tarat-tarat!

P.S. Puede na bang maging mommy? Wahehehe!!! Wag muna... baka tumaas kilay ng parents ko! :D

Capones Island: UPPGHMC 4th Anniversary

2007-03-26T00:50:00.000+08:00

March 17-18, 2007

sorry guys... tamad ako magsulat lately... photo-blog n lang...

VICTORY LINER STATION (5:30AM) - hayz... na-late kami so we have to wait for an hour... picture! picture! muna...

Attandance sa bus station!!! Go kuya Elmer...

CHOW TIME!!!

Yihee Shy!!!! sweet!!! hehehe...

Arnie, Jac and Ma'am Iva

BUS 1934... sus! BUS p lang napaaway n... pano kse me pasaway n matatanda na inagawan ng seats ung ibang members... hello? me seat numbers kaya... hehehe...

Me and Arnie (seatmates sa BUS)

Sige... bumawi ng tulog para me energy mamaya!!! haha!

Kuya Elmer and Joyce @ Pundaquit Island

Kuya Carlo

Joyce and Tisa

picture! picture! before loading the bangka (nice pose Bebe... cute cute!)

CHOW TIME! Nagtatago sa boulders... sobrang init kasi huh!

OK! pose muna bago ung game... hala cge! ang tatakaw sa picture!

THE LIGHTHOUSE

sobrang nakakainggit ung mga nakarating... kinapos kami ng oras kaya di kmi nkpunta e... Joyce! Balikan natin to ha... :D

The other side of Capones Island...

Videoke Time!!! (Habang kami nila Ma'am Nona nasa water falls... bkit d nio kami sinali?!?! Hehe... as if marunong kumanta)

TAM TAM d' Tiger

2007-03-26T00:47:00.000+08:00

My brother got me this cute tiger cub during his vacation in Singapore, 'coz he knows I'm fond of stuffed toys.

I'm totally thrilled just by looking at it 'coz it looks like a real tiger cub! I love it!

I remember an incident when I was young and I kept on bugging my mom to buy me a pet cat. She got irritated and told me... "Sige ibibili kita ng TIGER!" Wahehehe!!! I've long wanted to have a pet, but since my dad and brother have asthma, we can't have one inside the house. [kaya hanggang stuffed toy n lang ako! :p]

MUSIC & LYRICS

2007-03-05T15:22:00.000+08:00

Way Back Into Love by Hugh Grant and Haley Bennett
Soundtrack of Music and Lyrics
Movie by Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore

I’ve been living with a shadow overhead
I’ve been sleeping with a cloud above my bed
I’ve been lonely for so long
Trapped in the past, I just can’t seem to move on

I’ve been hiding all my hopes and dreams away
Just in case I ever need 'em again someday
I’ve been setting aside time
To clear a little space in the corners of my mind

All I want to do is find a way back into love
I can’t make it through without a way back into love
Oh oh oh

I’ve been watching but the stars refuse to shine
I’ve been searching but I just don’t see the signs
I know that it’s out there
There’s got to be something for my soul somewhere

I’ve been looking for someone to shed some light
Not just somebody just to get me through the night
I could use some direction
And I’m open to your suggestions

All I want to do is find a way back into love
I can’t make it through without a way back into love
And if I open my heart again
I guess I’m hoping you’ll be there for me in the end
oh, oh, oh, oh, oh

There are moments when I don’t know if it’s real
Or if anybody feels the way I feel
I need inspiration
Not just another negotiation

All I want to do is find a way back into love
I can’t make it through without a way back into love
And if I open my heart to you
I’m hoping you’ll show me what to do
And if you help me to start again
You know that I’ll be there for you in the end
oh, oh, oh, oh, oh

P.S. Grabe weakness ko tlaga guy na kumakanta... waaahhh! Love ko na si Hugh Grant!!! Lately sobrang addict me sa song na 'to. Si Hugh Grant k'se e!

Night Trek: Mt. Manabo, Sto. Tomas, Batangas

2007-02-17T23:24:00.000+08:00

February 16 -17, 2007

What would you choose? A good night sleep while snuggling your teddy bear...

...or a night trek along this rocky and bushy trail?

For most of you the answer is so damn easy! Of course nothing could beat a complete rest on your warm bed, in your fresh PJs (oh! I love pajamas!) and hugging your HUGO bear as you doze off to sleep, but for some of us who chose otherwise, it was one GREAT adventure that we'll cherish for the rest of our lives.

Yeah! It's as dangerous as it sounds, but a NIGHT TREK would complete your mountaineering experience, so believe me, you better try it! (Note: Night trekking is strictly not advisable according to MFPI, so if you want to give it a try, please take extra precautions, choose an established trail and go with the people who know what they're doing! Aight?!)

CLICK HERE [Mt. Manabo 2007] CLICK HERE

MY COFFEE-LOVER FRIEND

2007-02-10T14:55:00.000+08:00

I had my first Starbucks coffee with this petite girl, and from then on, I've experienced a lot of first time with her.

When I was in college, I've been addicted to coffee. I could even finish four cups or more in a row when reviewing for exams. (yeah! caffeine over-load!!!) However, you won't see me in those cozy coffee shops, sipping a cup of coffee latte or frappe, because I find it impractical to splurge on a cup of coffee worth more than a hundred bucks. During those sleepless nights preparing for Departmental Exams, a cup of instant coffee keeps me company, and it certainly does the job of keeping me awake. So why splurge on a cup of Starbucks coffee?!

Well, when I got an invitation from Mean, I couldn't say 'NO', simply because she's M-E-A-N. For those people who know her, I'll bet you got my point. *wink*

It's not the cup of coffee, and ambience is just secondary. What I'm really after is her company and the conversation. I love hanging out with her, not only because she laughs at my corny jokes, but also because I can be ME around her. I love those kulitans and care-free laughter, and I don't mind if it's a coffee date, lunch date or dinner date, as long as she's there. I can talk to her about my future dreams, my career goals, my problems, my hobbies, people I like, people I hate, my frustrations, love life (meron ba?!?!? erase-erase!!! hehehe...), must-taste food, places to visit, and etc. The list goes on and on.

She has introduced me to a variety of coffee shops, and all those first time were really terrific and satisfying.

We've been to...

======================================================

I've ordered Chunky Chicken Sandwich...

... and Blushing Bride (strawberry milk shake)

Mean suggested to try this one and I loved it! She really knows what I want. ;)
Mean ordered Al Pesto Pasta...

... chocolate cake and tea.

======================================================

LIFE IS GOOD!!!

Mean's treat! (Thank you!!!!)

======================================================
I wonder what's next on the list? Wherever it would be, I'm sure it's a whole new exciting experience with none other than my coffee-lover friend, MEAN. (luv yah sis!!!!)

P.S. She has also introduced me to Bread Talk (I love their Fire Floss), Illustrados (Strawberry doughnut! Yum Yum), Razon's halo-halo (It's soooo creamy), and Ice Monsters (Oh! I love their strawberry and blueberry). My first time in Heaven n' Eggs is also with Mean. Obviously, we both love food and STRAWBERRIES!!! (Sis, we better go to Baguio and visit the strawberry farm... :D)

Induction Climb: Mt. Pinatubo - Sta. Juliana Trail

2007-01-23T03:31:00.000+08:00

January 12 to 14, 2007

More than one and a half decade ago, it has claimed hundreds of lives and devastated a number of towns, making a lot of children orphans and many families homeless, but now Mt. Pinatubo is considered one of the tourist's spots in Northern Luzon. The majestic beauty of it's crater lake, breathtaking view of different rock formations, and artistically sculpted lahar walls never fail to amaze every visitor, whether local or foreign.

For the Induction Climb of the 3rd batch [Adamas] of the UP-PGH Mountaineering Club, the officers have chosen Mt. Pinatubo. At first I was hesitant to join the expedition, since we were told that a trainee from a different group died while saving his co-trainees from the flashflood. Honestly, if it wasn't an induction climb, I wouldn't have joined the group, but after having a glimpse of the amazing view of it's crater lake, I'm glad I did.

Team Pasaway with Fred @ PGH Flagpole

Backpackers @ the PGH Flagpole

CLICK HERE [Mt. Pinatubo 2007] CLICK HERE

UPPGHMC CHristmas Party

2007-01-08T22:32:00.000+08:00

December 29, 2006

Right after my duty, I headed to Robinson's Place Manila to buy something for our exchange gift. The rule is maximum of P 100.00/gift. I had a hard time thinking of a nice and useful gift below 100.00, since most of the items nowadays are quite expensive, unless you'll go to Divisoria. :D

After wrapping my gift, I went straight to the Personnel Services Division of PGH to help with the preparations.

We all had a great time, and here's some of the pictures...

Opening Speech by our Club President, Sir Egay

The Founding Members

Sir Jossel, Ma'am Hershey, Ma'am Nona, Ma'am Gemma, Sir Melvin, Ma'am Gemma (Gemus)

Second Batch

Ma'am Luz, Kuya Benjie, Kuya Red, Sir Egay

Third Batch

Kuya Carlo, Bebe, Jac, Pio, Shy, Arnie, Mai, Tisa, Joyce and Albert

____________________________________________

CLICK HERE [UPPGHMC's Christmas Party '06] CLICK HERE

LETTING GO...

2007-01-01T05:08:00.000+08:00

December 22, 2006

Today, I've finally freed myself from anger and hatred. Forgiveness is slowly creeping into my system and it's making me feel a lot better.

I've had a dinner date with a long-time friend, Peewee. We've been close friends since 4th year highschool and he's one of my barkadas. We've never seen each other since july 7, and it's been six months already. We had lots of stories to share and issues to talk about, and one of those was my misunderstanding with my bestfriend.

We meet up at Yellow Cab in Robinson's Place Ermita, 'cause I know that's one of his favorite food chain.

We both love to eat and it's our common ground along with my bestfriend. We ordered New York's Finest, Charlie Chan Chicken Pasta and Ice tea. (Yum Yum! I've been craving for pasta and pizza, and this is definitely the best way to ease the cravings... hmmm...)

I know he misses the old times when we used to have christmas parties and birthday surprises. It's been more than a year since we haven't celebrated special ocassions together, 'cause me and my bestfriend were not in good terms. I know he's torn between us, but I have to congratulate him for being fair. He was never one-sided. (Thank you for understanding dude!). Like him, I also misses those times that we used to cook and eat together, plan birthday surprises, watch movies and food trip at the mall. I miss those kulitans and long talks. In short... I miss our barkada.

During this time that I know my bestfriend would be facing one of the greatest challenge in her life, I want to be beside her, maybe not as a bestfriend, but as a friend (I don't want to use that label anymore, 'cause bestfriends = expectations). I've told myself that there would be no turning back, but now, the walls that surrounded my heart is slowly crashing down and it's slowly giving way for forgiveness to enter my heart. Peewee was right on saying that we are old enough to cling on past quarrels, so I have to let go and move on.

According to Sylvia Clare & David Hughes author of Living the Life You Want, letting go does not mean losing or having to give something up. Letting go is simply making a decision - no longer to allow something from the past to influence your life now or to reduce your inner sense of peace and well-being. I want to start the year right, so I've decided to finally put a closure to my past quarrel with my bestfriend, and Peewee and I already have a plan.

It is true that forgiveness is not a gift we give to others, but a gift we give to ourselves. Forgiveness begins with an act of will, a decision to be victor rather than victim. The price we are paying for the resentment is simply too high, that is why we forgive. It's for ourselves, not for them. It's for our own quality of life. (from Anger and Forgiveness by Earnie Larsen) Letting go is to be free of the issues that hinder us from moving on and enjoying a better kind of life. We don't need strength to let go of something. What you really need is UNDERSTANDING. (Cosmo Mag)

Malyn Cristobal, counselor in The Living Free Foundation, said, "In any attachment, there's been an emotional investment. That's why it's hard to let go." We've been through a lot, and we've been friends for 7 years already. It's not reasonable to end it just because of a petty quarrel. We've all invested a lot of time, effort and emotions to this friendship and we've promised to stick together forever.

I know she also misses me, and that's according to our common friends. I know she wants the friendship back. Those unanswered text messages and emails she sent me, spells SORRY. So I guess, we both learned from this experience, and we both have to move on. It would never be the same friendship that we had before, but it's not too late to start re-building it.

Thanks to Peewee, I've realized how much I missed our barkada, errr.... or maybe it's because of the pizza?! Watchatink??? :D

Merienda Date with Karen

2007-01-01T04:58:00.000+08:00

December 22, 2006

I had a merienda date with Karen, my churchmate who's about to work abroad. We would not be seeing each other for quite a while, so we decided to meet up. (We call each other piggy... :p)

She's a fan of Red Ribbon, so we headed to the 2nd floor of SM Manila.

She recommended their palabok so I tried it. It was great and their new choco marjolaine was also delicious.

P.S. Kaya ako tumataba e... puro kain ginawa ko ngaung December... tsk tsk!

TONG YANG

2007-01-01T03:51:00.000+08:00

December 21, 2006

Tong Yang (Pan Pacific Hotel, Malate Manila)

Sir Geoffrey treated all the ABG Staffs to Tong Yang at Pan Pacific Hotel, and it was a great experience! It was my first time to try a shabu-shabu style of eating, where you have to cook your own food in a griller. It was fun and at the same time very satisfying... :)

Here's some of the pictures.

(I love strawberry ice cream!!!)

If you love sea foods and you have a big appetite, this is the place for you.

FOOD BINGE with my cousin and roommates

2006-12-24T14:28:00.000+08:00

December 19, 2006

I have a hectic schedule for this day. First I have to accompany my cousin to PGH to pass the application requirements for nurses, and then at 5PM I have to meet my college roommates at Mall of Asia.

My cousin arrived at our dorm at around 2:30PM. We wasted no time and set fort to PGH to pass the requirements and get a schedule for the exam. After paying for the exam, we both decided to eat merienda. We ate at Cabalen and tried their eat-all-you-can.

Josh, my cousin
Me (extra si manong sa likod... hehehe!)

After eating, he shopped for gifts and a new pair of shoes. By 5:30PM we were back at the dorm. We both change our clothes. Then we met up with Precious and Van in front of PGH at around 7:00PM to get a cab to SM Mall of Asia.

The last time me and my college rommates had a get together was last june, and it's been 6 months already, and I miss all of them!

We decided to eat at Super Bowl of China... again! ( the frist time we went ot MOA, we also ate at Super Bowl). What we liked about the place is the private rooms, since we tend to get loud when we are together. Those carefree laughter and kulitans never fail to make other people stare at us. (head-turner baga! Hehehe!) And of course, the food is also great!

(I love Mango Shake!!!)

After eating, we decided to have an on-the-spot exchange gift (it was Janee's idea... para maiba naman! :D) We were given 30 minutes to look for a gift and then meet up near the entrance. It was an exciting mini-game, which can measure how much you know the person you picked, since you'll just be given little time to look for an item, so you should instantly know what she would like. I got a travel kit from Sweet, which I can definitely use during my climbs. (Thanks girl!)

I LOVE MY TEDDIES!!!

2006-12-17T23:47:00.000+08:00

They keep me company and makes me feel safe when I'm at the dorm.

MARTHEENA

HEATHER

HUGO

awww... aren't they cute?

Training Climb: Mt. Manalmon, San Miguel, Bulacan

2006-12-01T21:08:00.000+08:00

November 26, 2006

My heart was beating fast and I can't sleep. I've also felt this before the orientation climb. Maybe because I'm excited or maybe because I know mountaineering is risky. But still, I'm passionate about my new hobby. The excitement, thrill and fun that I'm experiencing in every climb are priceless!

For the training climb, our trainor, Sir Elmer Cabotage chose Mt. Manalmon. Knowing that it was the place where Mulawin was shoot, doubled the excitement.

I woke up at around 4:00 AM and arrived at the meeting place on time. (Usually I'm late when I have an appointment, but not on this one.) We left PGH at around 7AM and set off to Baliuag Transit to meet the other members. Although we arrived at the bus station 30 minutes before the estimated time of departure (ETD), we still left the bus station 15 minutes late, because we still have to wait for the other group coming from Ortigas.

When we reached Brgy. Kamias, there's a jeepney waiting for us with our 'guide'. We arrived at Brgy. Madlum at around 10:30 AM.

Before we started the climb, our trainor gathered us for a short prayer to ask for His guidance. Teacher Tina, one of my co-trainees, lead the prayer.

Here are some of the pictures at the jump off.

And this is me with our trainor from the Mountaineering Federation of the Philippines, Inc., Mr. Salvador Elmer Cabotage.

CLICK HERE [Mt. Manalmon 2006] CLICK HERE

A PRAYER

2006-12-01T21:06:00.000+08:00

teach me how to forgive... teach me how to love... teach me how to see life in a different light...
cleanse my soul... heal my heart... let me feel the warmth in the coldness of the night...
lead me out of depression... cast away my misery... make me happy, please let it be...
enlighten my mind...show me the right path... this I pray, Father please help me...

TEA LEAF READING

2006-12-01T20:25:00.000+08:00

November 24, 2006, Friday

Here we go again!!! This was another fortune telling experience, after Gino Ginintuan, with none other than my adventure-loving friend MEAN.

I was having second thoughts about it, since you have to buy 1.5 kg of ice tea before you can have a tea leaf reading session. I'm not a fan of ice tea neither do my family, so I don't know if I would be able to consume that 1.5 kg of powdered ice tea. However, I don't want to let this opportunity pass and it's just for the sake of fun, so I gave in.

I thought it would be a Madamme Trelawney experience, where images would form in the tea cup, like what Harry Potter and his classmates were doing in the Divination Class, but it's not. Here, you just have to place your two hands over the tea cup before picking up pieces of cut-out tea leaves. At the back of my mind, I was doubting if this is a genuine fortune telling, but I've just gone with the flow. What's surprising about it was all the things that the 'master' had said is TRUE! So I thought, this guy may really have the 'gift'. Do you want to know what were the things he told me? Read on....

After placing my hands over the tea cup, he asked me to pick up eight pieces of cut-out tea leaves, and place it on top of the board. The first tea leaf was like a sickly man with a black aura, and he told me that my main concern right now is my HEALTH. I got a bit worried by that, because I do phlebotomy and I'm exposed to patients with communicable illnesses. On the other hand, it could be regarding my plans of engaging myself into a 'healthy lifestyle', which includes regular exercise and a vegetarian diet. I was actually inspired by Leo Oracion (laughing out louad)! Kidding aside, since my interest right now is into mountaineering, I really have to be fit, and I want to be as lean as Leo. Either of the two, I really have to look after my HEALTH, because as the cliche goes 'an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure'.

The second issue he raised was about a masculine persona who's causing my depression right now. He said it could be my dad. Well, I know what he's talking about, but it's not my dad who caused my depression. It's actually a woman who made me feel miserable. All the angst and depression I'm keeping inside all rooted from her. I don't know why I can't forgive her, and eventhough I force myself to love her, I can't. She's a woman, but her personality is so strong and more on the masculine side, so it could probably be her. The 'master' told me to learn how to forgive and to move on. He advised me to leave the past behind and start doing good things for myself. He told me to focus on improving my own self rather than to dwell in the past. He said that this issue is actually holding me back, so I have to let go and move on. He said forgiveness doesn't mean that I have to confront the person and tell her that I forgive her, but it could be done in the mind. I should just release the anger and tell myself that I forgive that person. When will I ever get this hatred out of my heart? I dunno... but I wish it would be sooner... It's sucking all the positive energies that I have in my system... and slowly draining the love that I have in my heart... (enough of this 'coz my tears are starting to roll down my cheeks...)

After interpreting the eight tea leaves on the board, he asked me to pick up 3 more cut-out tea leaves. When he opened it, he smiled a bit, then said. "You want to change your perception about yourself." He told me that if I want to take up short courses, I should pursue it. Maybe it's regarding my plans to get a master's degree, or it could be regarding my American Medical Technologists membership (I have to finish reviewing for the exam... my gosh!). He told me that I have higher goals and it's alright to pursue them. I just have to go on and follow my dreams.

Then he asked me to pick up another 3 cut-out tea leaves again. When he opened it, one of it is a house. He told me that my issues at home shouldn't hold me back. He advised me again to focus on myself and my own growth. I know he's not telling me to be selfish... I do understand what he means by that, and I hope sooner or later I would be able to move on, and change for the better...

He again asked me to pick up another 3 cut-out tea leaves. One of those is a pile of gold coins and the other is a golden ring. He advised me to engage in business and I would be able to make it flourish. Yup! I'm a business-minded person, and most of my close friends certainly know that. By the way, I recommend reading "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" by Robert Kiyosaki for those who want to change their perspective about assets and liabilities and how to make money rather than to work for it. I don't want to work as a Medical Technologist for my entire life! And I bet you feel the same way. What I want is to have my own business someday. Want to be my business partner? Contact me @.... hehehe... just kidding!!! but if you're serious about it... leave me a message. :D

For the last part, he asked me to pick up two pieces of paper, one with a quote and the other one is with a prayer ( well not exactly a prayer, but something close to that... it's actually used for meditation, and you have to recite it 3x a day for 30 days). The quote I got reads "Regrets can hold back and can prevent the most wonderful things taking place in your life. Forgive yourself and others then move on... life has so much to offer." Whoah! I was speechless for a moment. It was actually the same advise he gave me! Then he told me... "That's what I told you...", and gave me a warm smile. I said, "Thank you...", and stepped out of the booth.

Good thing I've joined Mean on this another very enlightening adventure. I know there's a lot of issues that I have to resolve before I could finally move on... but I know I eventually will.

P.S. Mean ibang klase tlaga ang trippings natin 'pag kasama kita... thanks for the time! When I'm with you mas malakas loob kong gumawa ng crazy stuffs... who cares kung sinong makita... ;) Go girl!

AN UNFORGETTABLE ENCOUNTER

2006-11-23T10:28:00.000+08:00

November 22, 2006

It was Wednesday morning, and it seems like my back is glued to my bed. I'm too lazy to get up, but i have to. There's so many things that I need to buy for the next climb, along with some gifts and christmas cards in preparation for the Holidays.

My first agenda is to visit TREK in Quirino Ave, where I'm planning to buy a hydro pack and a cover for my backpack. It was my first time to visit the place, so I don't know what to expect. It turned out that it's just a small shop full of mountaineering gears. When I stepped into the shop, it was not the equipments that caught my attention, but the man on the phone. "Oh my God! I think I know this guy." I pretended not to notice him and look for some items that I could buy. After choosing a cover for my backpack and a hydro pack, I looked around to find a bush hat and a waist bag. Unfortunately, the bush hat is out of stock and the waist bag is too big.

When I was about to gather the items that I've choosen, the man on the phone approached me and said, "Ito ba ang bibilhin mong hydro pack (Is this the hydro pack that you want to buy)?", and I said "Yes." He got another hydro pack and hand it over to me, and said "Ito na lang, mas matibay 'to. (Choose this one, it's more sturdy)", I said, "Ito na lang po, tsaka na 'ko mag-iinvest sa gamit, beginner pa lang naman po ako. (This one would be fine since I'm just a beginner, I'll just invest on my equipments later on)."

CLICK HERE [Unforgettable Encounter] CLICK HERE

7 Things I love about HIM...

2006-11-23T10:21:00.000+08:00

1. When I wake up in the morning, he's always there beside me.
2. He patiently waits for me and never asks invasive questions or my whereabouts.
3. He listens to all problems, without criticizing me.
4. I know he'll never leave me, even if I ask him to.
5. He always makes me feel safe and warm.
6. He's so cute and huggable
7. He never complains.

Things changed when he came into my life, because I know that every time I came from work, there's somebody waiting for me at my room, ready to offer me a hug. After all, he's made to be snuggled... I love my HUGO Bear!

P.S. Hugo's my brother's birthday gift to me. :)

ORIENTATION CLIMB: MT. TALAMITAM, NASUGBU BATANGAS

2006-10-25T11:47:00.000+08:00

October 15-16, 2006

When my friend, Janee, read my blog about the UP-PGH Mountaineering Club, she told me, "Jac, I can't believe that among us, you'll be the one who'll join a mountaineering club. You're so girly for that!"

Yeah, a lot of people think I'm girly, and nobody believes that I'm boyish. Maybe because I love the color pink, but deep inside I love guy's stuffs. I even wanted to become a guy when I was young, maybe because of my brother, and most of my cousins are guys.

I really don't know how it started, but during my college years, I already wanted to become a mountaineer. I love the idea of surpassing all the challenges of different trails, and bringing out all your energy just to reach the summit. It's so COOL!

I was so excited about the orientation climb, and I bet Ate Joji, my roommate, already got used to hearing about it everyday. I even practiced carrying my backpack in front of her! She was laughing her heart out, and she doubts if I could carry it upto the summit. Imagine, 3 liters of water on your back plus your clothes and other personal stuffs, it was damn HEAVY, but that's part of the challenge.

Aside from experiencing the adventure of climbing different mountains and enjoying the beauty of mother nature, I also want to gain new friends. I met the other members of the club at the bus station, and they seem to be nice and friendly. We all came from different departments of PGH, and I only knew some of them.

The bus ride going to Nasugbu, Batangas was fine. We passed along Tagaytay, and we had an overlooking view of the Taal Volcano. We reached Brgy. Bayabasan at 12:00nn, which is two hours later than our expected time of arrival. So instead of going to the center of the community, we immediately headed to the start of the trail.

CLICK HERE [Mt. Talamitam 2006] CLICK HERE

The UP-PGH Mountaineering Club

2006-10-09T12:28:00.000+08:00

I've heard about it way back in college from our computer programmer in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics (DEBS). He was then editing some pictures in his computer, when me and Valerie approached him. During that time, Val was planning to buy a digital camera, so she asked for the brand and model of the camera he used to take the pictures. On the other hand, I'm more interested on where the photos were taken. He then told us that it was taken from one of their climb. It turned out that his a member of the UP-PGH Mountaineering Club. I really wanted to be a mountaineer, so I asked him how to join and what are the euipments that I need to buy. Since the equipments and gears are expensive, I've decided to wait 'til I have a job, so my salary could support the expenses...

CLICK HERE [UPPGHMC] CLICK HERE

LUCKY CHARM

2006-10-09T12:26:00.000+08:00

Professor Bungay was one of my microbiology teachers way back in college, and she usually do researches in Japan. That's where she got the idea of giving miniature shoes to the person you want to travel or leave the country.

I've been looking for a miniature shoes for my brother who wants to work in Singapore as an Aircraft Mechanic, and came across a cute pendant shaped like a slippers with lots of crystals. Since it's so girly I bought it for myself. It's when I started wearing miniature shoes as a pendant.

Two weeks ago I bought another pendant, this time shaped like a doll shoes for me and my friend.

I just hope that this fondness for miniature shoes would really bring me luck to travel and work abroad.

I'm still on my quest in finding a miniature shoes for my brother. I want it to be masculine yet classy. If anybody knows a store where miniature shoes are being sold, just leave me a comment. Thanks!

The Heaven n' Eggs Experience

2006-10-09T12:20:00.000+08:00

At the grocery, while Mean was choosing a pasalubong for her mom...

Jackie: Sis malapit na birthday mo, gamitin kaya natin yung gift certificate ko sa Heaven and Eggs?
[Mean's birthday - Sept 30]

Mean: *chuckles*

Jackie: Bakit?

Mean: Alam mo ba Jac, matatawa ka, pero pinagdasal ko un.

Jackie: Ung Heaven n' Eggs?

Mean: OO. Na sana ako isama mo...

Jackie: *smiling* Talaga? Aba ang lakas mo talaga sa Kanya ha... ang galing mo magdasal. Sige ha punta
tayo Market! Market!

Well, that's not our exact wordings, but that's the closest to what I could remember. Look how powerful prayers can be, especially if it's uttered by Mean. Yiheee!!! (ipagdasal mo kaya sis na sana makapunta na akong U.S. next year... hehehe!)

So last September 16, we headed to Market! Market to use the Heaven n' Eggs gift certificate I got from a scrapbooking contest. We both don't know how to get there, so we took a cab.

At the entrance, we looked at the directory to know the location of HNE. After the long search, we've finally found it! The place is very cozy, and you'll feel like in heaven with it's white and light blue motiff. Some of the chairs are like swings, and I love it.

Of course each dish has eggs as one of its ingredients, or egg is included in the platter, be it an omelet, scrambled or sunny-side-up. I ordered mixed sea food platter, while Mean opted for a French toast, sausages, potato and waffle. We both love strawberries, so we chose strawberry milk shake for our beverage, and for the dessert we ordered Four Seasons Waffle.

When our orders were placed on top of our table, we looked at each other and laugh. We were both surprised with their BIG servings, and we don't know how to finish them all up.

The Mixed Sea Food Platter has shrimp, squid and tuna coated with flour and egg (tempura style). It comes along with rice and a side dish of vegetable salad. Their sauce and the salad dressing were terrific!

After eating my mixed sea food platter, I was so full and feel so bloated, so the Four Seasons Waffle was left untouched. I jokingly said, "Ano ba yan? Ang tagal naman nung mga kasama natin. Sinong kakain nito?" Then we both laughed, because five big plates were spread out on top of our table and we can't finish 'em up. That's what you call takaw tingin. (hehehe!) Mean's friend was right on saying that eating in Heaven n' Eggs will definitely make you feel bloated, but the food was great! Two thumbs up!

The French toast and sausages platter, though I haven't tasted it, seems great! It comes along with some meat loaf, potato wedges, scrambled egg/sunny-side-up and a waffle with apple sauce. It's a perfect breakfast platter. Yum yum!

You also have to try their strawberry milk shake. It's so creamy!

The Four Seasons Waffle is topped with four kinds of fruit. You can request for the toppings that you want, but it depends on the availability of the fruit. Our waffle was topped with kiwi, banana, mango and apple sauce. We didn't eat it, because we're already full, so we asked the waiter to wrap it and we brought it home. My parents loved it!

When you hit Glorietta or Market! Market, try to eat at Heaven n' Eggs. Promise! sulit ang pera n'yo... I'll definitely come back for more Heaven n' Eggs experience. ;)

P.S. This is not a paid advertisement! Hehehe....

A SECOND CHANCE

2006-10-01T18:10:00.000+08:00

Some friends are separated by time... some by distance. Some are separated by differences, and some by pride. - anonymous

When you ended a friendship, would you look back and try to work things out? When an old friend is begging for a second chance, would you grant it? Many would say, "It depends..", but for me... the decision should be final. You may call it PRIDE, but I'm just being firm with my decision.

In the first place, coming up with a decison like ending a friendship is really hard and could be life-changing, so you can't make a hasty decision. You have to think it over and over again. You also have to make sure that you've looked into different aspect of your friendship. If it's still worth saving, talk things over. But if your differences are becoming too much to handle, and if the friendship is starting to become an obligation rather than a give-and-take relationship, why waste your time? If it's no longer making you happy, why do you have to keep it. It would just be an emotional burden in the long run.

"If you've been given the chance to talk about the problem, take advantage of it and don't waste that chance. I've already given you the chance to explain yourself. You've seen me teary-eyed as I was telling you how hurt I am, but did you care? I didn't even feel any bit of concern from you, so what do you think I would feel? I'm so sorry, but as you have said, you know me... if it's a NO, it's definitely a NO."

WEED OUT

2006-09-17T15:10:00.000+08:00

Aug 23, 2006

October 23, 2005. 3:00 AM. I can't stop my tears from flowing and my cheeks were soaking wet. My heart was aching and it felt like I was stabbed right in the middle of my chest. The pain was unbearable, but I told myself, "Jac, it's not the end of the world. Things would definitely change, but you have to move on. You have to be strong! Relationships end, and so do FRIENDSHIPS..." This day, I swore to myself that I no longer have a BESTFRIEND...

Yesterday I was browsing through a Cosmo Mag, when I came across an article about trimming down your friends entitled "Clear Out Your Friend Clutter". Memories of that hurtful day of October came flashing back in my mind. After reading the article, I knew I made the right decision, I still have NO REGRETS.

People change, and as we journey through life, we MATURE. At this point of my life, I'm starting to weed out my friends. Like what the article stated "Our youth is about accumulating friends, but as we get older we need to weed." I'll not sacrifice the quality of friendship over the quantity, and it doesn't matter if I can count my friends on one hand, as long as their TRUE and LOYAL to me.

The day I ended my friendship with my bestfriend, marked the day my eyes were opened to the fact that CLOSE friends come and go, not just your acquiantances. It's hard to maintain a friendship, but letting go is even harder. When you remember the times you shared together, the places you've been to, and the ups and downs you've been through, a sudden gush of sadness would come oozing from within. It hurts... but you have to bear it... I HAVE TO BEAR IT.

The look on her face when I confronted her about the reason I got hurt, made my decision FINAL. She's more irritated than sorry and it seems she doesn't care about my feelings. I thought if I'd talk to her about it, it would change my decision, but it didn't. It made the matter worst. I was hurt even more... Like what the author of the article stated "her death stare was a sure sign that this was one friendship to leave behind". Thus, I started ignoring her for good, cutting all the bonds and communication, which resulted to a lot of unanswered text messages. She said she misses me... but if she really treasure our friendship, why did she acted that way? Why did she make face on me, when I told her I was hurt? If she doesn't care about my feelings, why should I continue being friends with her? If I'm her second priority over some of her friends, why should I make her my first? If you are taken for granted, why would you consider her a bestfriend? Am I too harsh or am I just being TRUE? I guess I'm just being true to myself. If the friendship needs to end, it has to end... and I HAVE TO LET GO.

According to the article there are five type of friends that you should hang on to. First is YOUR CHALLENGER, who is strong, independent woman who isn't afraid to speak her mind. You can benefit from the friction of your friendship, because it makes you both raise your game. Second is YOUR TOUCHSTONE. This is a friend who's always been there. You've gone through everything together and there's no pretending to be cool around her. You knew her when you were in nappies and you'll draw your pension with her too. Third is YOUR LISTENER, who is wordly and wise. Being able to listen and give advice is a rare talent, so we have to treasure it. The Noughties are all about greater emotional intelligence -- that means the friendship is based on feelings, honesty and integrity. Fourth is YOUR PEP-ME-UP PAL. She's the one who, after the break-up, will lend you a dress and drag you out the door. She's more than just a party girl and her enthusiasm and optimism are contagious, even when you both have stretch marks and screaming toddlers. Fifth is YOUR MANSLATOR. He's the one who can read your boyfriend's subtitles and say 'Ah, but what he's really saying is... '. Men might be from Mars and women from Venus, but he is the interplanetary messenger. You can only count these friends on one hand, but nonetheless they are the only friends you'll need. I'm not saying that you should limit your friends to FIVE, but these friends should be your must-haves.

Somebody told me that it's better not to have a sole bestfriend, because having one, demands a lot of expectations. If one of those expectations was not met, frustration follows, then you get hurt. I think she's right on that. I have a lot of girl friends who don't demand or expect too much from me, and vice versa, but the friendship is a lot more than ordinary. A friendship with less expectations, but with lots of love, honesty and loyalty is better than having a BESTFRIEND with lots of expectations, but could lead to a lot of frustrations.

At the age of 15, I had a bestfriend... and at the age of 22, the friendship ended. But in fairness to her, I had some great times during those seven years of friendship. I thought 7 is my lucky number, but not on this one.

I changed... my heart changed... but I'm proud to be STRONGER.

MY SCRAPBOOK PAGE: A GRAND PRIZE WINNER

2006-09-17T15:00:00.000+08:00

June 17, 2006

Sometimes we doubt our talents, and we fear that our works would be criticized, but today I've learned to believe in myself and my creativity.

I wasn't supposed to continue joining the SCRAP-A-PAGE: Scrapbooking Contest by All About Scrapbooking, but last night my friends convinced me to join. Good thing! Because I've bagged the GRAND PRIZE.

I started planning my layout when I woke up this morning. After preparing all the materials, I headed to Robinson's Place Ermita to register for the contest. At first I was very timid to approach the organizers. As I was about to leave the venue, I've realized that I would regret this day if I won't join the contest. So I ended up signing for the Adult Division as Contestant # 6.

It started with a basic workshop at 1:30PM. After the presentation the contest proper begun. The contestants for the SCRAP-A-PAGE competition were given 1 hour to complete their scrapbook page.

I tried so hard to control my nervousness, 'cause I wouldn't be able to work on my page skillfully if my hands were shaking. Though it was time-pressured, I managed to complete my page on time.

After submitting our entry, we've waited for the announcement of winners. I wasn't expecting to win, because the matting of my focal point was too light, and I know that the focal point is very important in a scrapbook page.

When the host were announcing the winners for the adult division, I was praying to win even just the consulation prize. When the 3rd and 2nd place winner were announced, I know for myself that it's over. At the back of my mind, it's impossible for me to win the first prize, but I was wrong. When my name was called for the grand prize, I was totally shocked.

Here's the picture of the scrapbook page I've made. The original page was kept by All About Scrapbooking as their property.

MY WINNING ENTRY

JAC's 19th Birthday Party

July 7, 2002; MDR DORM

It was my LAST birthday as a teenager,

and though it was raining hard outside,

we still had a lot of FUN!

**This is one of the unforgettable times I've spent with the SUPERFRIENDS. They were the subject of my scrapbook page and they were the ones who convinced me to join. I guess they were my lucky charm. Thanks guys!

THE GRAND PRIZE

There were no cash prize involve, nevertheless it was all worth it. Here's the list of the prizes I've received:

* Php 2,000 worth of gift certificate from National Bookstore

* Php 1,000 worth of gift certificate from Heaven and Eggs, Market Market!

* Php 800 worth of gift certificate from Ink for Less, Ink Refilling Station

* Buffet Lunch for two at Cafe Al Fresco in Hyatt Regency Manila

* Casio LABEL IT!: EZ-Label Printer KL-60

* Loads of scrapbooking products and tools from All About Scrapbooking

* tools organizer

* stencils

* BIC Products

* Greeting cards from Hallmark

* Super Dad Shirt for Father's Day

* A bouquet of flowers

I love all the prizes especially the CASIO E-Z Label printer, 'cause I have a thing about gadgets. It was all worth the time, efforts and money, since the requirement for registration is just a Php 100.00 receipt of All About Scrapbooking Products.

Today is my first time to join a scrapbook contest, and it was trully an UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE!

Visit my Scrapbook Blog at Pink Leaf Scrapbooking Guide

Happy Scrapbooking!!!

SEARCHING FOR THE TRUE MEANING OF HAPPINESS

2006-09-17T14:56:00.000+08:00

June 10, 2006

'What can make you happy?' This is a question I myself can't answer. My goals and dreams are endless, and it seems that contentment is pretty much elusive. I've already laid out my goals towards my chosen career path, and I'm already halfway through it. But a stable job isn't enough. I want to have my own family -- a wonderful husband and beautiful kids. I also want to have my own business. There's a lot of things I want to accomplish in this lifetime, but I don't know if those would be enough to make me happy. They say happiness comes from within, and contentment will all depends on you.

I want to share with you a beautiful poem about happiness which I've got from Tita Holiday, Sweet's mom. This was incorporated in her speech during the Adventist Youth Seminar last May 6, which me and Precious have attended. We spent the whole day with their family and I had a lot of fun. Here's a copy of the poem:

HAPPINESS COMES IN PIECES

Happiness is like a crystal
Fair and exquisite and clear
Broken in a million pieces
Shattered, scattered far and near

Now and then along life's pathway
Lo! some shining fragments fall;
But there are so many pieces
No one ever finds them all

You may find a bit of beauty
Or an honest share of wealth,
While another just beside you
Gathers honor, love or health

Vain to choose or grasp unduly
Broken is the perfect ball
And there are so many pieces
No one ever finds them all

Yet the wise, as on their journey
Treasure every fragment clear
Fit them as they come together
Imagining the shattered sphere

Learning ever to be thankful
Though their share of it is small
For it has so many pieces
No one ever finds them all.

-anonymous

Learning to be grateful to God in every blessing that comes your way, is the first step towards contentment. You have to realize that even though you don't have all the things that you WANT, you're still lucky enough to have the things that you NEED. It is human nature to want more than what he has, but overcoming this feeling would make you more happy and contented. It is hard, and I'm also in the process of overcoming this unhealthy feeling.
Just always bear in mind that...

No one in this world can dictate to you where u can be happy... If you know where and what it is... go for it... just remember that happiness is not a destiny it's a CHOICE...
-anonymous

PASAYAHAN SA LUCENA 2006

2006-09-17T14:49:00.000+08:00

June 4, 2006

Summer is about to end, and May showers started to drench flower beds and rice fields all over the country, but before we end our Summer Fun, me and my brother decided to visit Lucena City to witness their fiesta called Pasayahan 2006.

It was some sort of a reunion with our cousins, and a weekend full of concerts and celebrities. I was one of the boys for the whole weekend, but I don’t mind.

GMA channel 7, the Kapuso station, graced the event which is sponsored by James Cooper. Bands and celebrities were in every corner of the city, including the malls -- SM Lucena and Pacific Mall. Our weekend nights were spent watching concerts and food tripping. However, it was also a tiring weekend as we walk from one location to another. The streets were closed due to street parties, and parking was a total headache.

For the first night we watched the concert of Aegis, but halfway through the concert there was a commotion. A group of civilian started to fight and the audience started to run away from the venue. So we decided to move to another location and go to the heart of the city, where the main street was converted to a tiangge. When all of us were tired of the endless walking, we decided to go home and watch the Da Vinci Code in DVD. It was quite a boring flick. After the movie we went to bed to get some sleep, because we needed a lot of energy for tomorrow’s grand parade.

For the second day, we got up early to watch the grand parade which includes the cast of Captain Barbell and SOP Gigsters. Here are some of the photos from the parade.

CLUB MWAH

MORIONES from Marinduque

GIANT MASCOT

SOP GIGSTERS CAST

CAPTAIN BARBELL CAST

After lunch we decided to go to the parking lot of SM Lucena to watch SOP Gigsters Live. But the scorching heat of the sun was unbearable, so we decided to go to the backstage. We saw Camille Pratts, Sunshine Dizon, Richard Gutierrez, Ryza Cenon, Nicole Anderson, Rainier Castillo, and Mark Herras in person. Richard was not snobbish and he was really handsome. We stayed at the parking lot in less that 20 minutes, and went to the food court for another session of food trip. After eating we watched X-Men: The last Stand. It was a great movie! Though I was never a die-hard fan of X-Men, I enjoyed the movie and I demand for another X-Men flick. The end of the movie marks the start of another endless walking through the streets of the city as we watched different concerts. Even the channel 2 stars were there. Sherri and Eric Santos have a concert along with Parokya ni Edgar and Rocksteady.

But on top of it all, what I enjoyed the most was the quality time I spent with my brother and cousins, which is ultimately PRICELESS!