8/31/2009

Music Monday#18 Note to God by Charice Pempengco

Charice Pempengco did justice to this very beautiful song composed by Dianne Warren. I am totally impressed and amazed of Charice Pempengco for not only singing beautifully but also for making our country proud. Here's the youtube video (courtesy: Oprah):

Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. One simple rule, leave ONLY the actual post link here. You can grab this code at LJL Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted without prejudice.




PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

Marcos Island Jump, Hundred Islands, Pangasinan, Philippines

yey! Finally, i got to post the video of our Marcos Island jump that I mentioned in my previous post. The file was big and I don't know how to flip it so you might watch the video with angled head :) Nevertheless, it was a fun jump but a bit scary.

We went up on the top of the island and entered a cave called Imelda cave. We went down a small flight of stairs to get nearer to the water and then, well...basically, I prayed first because for some reason even if it was such a simple jump, I was nervous. Here's the video...

8/30/2009

Indak-indak sa Kadalanan 2009 Video

Last August 22, 2009, my niece participated for the first time in Kadayawan's Indak-indak sa Kadalanan. She was worried about who will be taking her pictures upon knowing that I would be somewhere else on that day. So, I left my old camera to my brother for them to use.

Their school won the 4th place with the prize money of P30,000.00. We were quite proud of her as she was the only one in her class who participated and represented their school in this popular annual festival of our city..

Here is one of the videos he took while my niece was doing the street dancing. .

8/26/2009

Day#5 Luzon Tour (Laguna)

We woke up at past 5am and took turns in the bathroom. We were all set at past 7am and just went across Star Andrea Hotel at Aling Ester's Canteen to have our cheap but good breakfast. Mine was only P61.50 (tortang talong, 2 pieces of pandesal, rice, Nescafe 3-in-1 coffee and shared half of the adobong baboy with Flong.

8:10am-took a jeepney ride to Rizal Shrine. (fare-P7.00)

8:20am-10:00am- visited Rizal Shrine (free entrance), the Palayok (a giant clay pot with the map of Laguna drawn all over it, it is just across the church) and St. John the Baptist Church (located just across Rizal Shrine). I bought some souvenirs from Rizal Shrine (postcard, magnet and a tiny claypot). I wanted a Rizal t-shirt but there was just only one available which Zaldy bought.

10:10am-took a tricycle (fare- P10.00) from the church back to our hotel to retrieve our bags.

10:25am-12:30am We took an aircon Bus from Calamba to Cubao (fare-P87.45) right across the hotel. This trip would've been shorter if not for the road repairs we encountered along the way that totally stalled the traffic. When we arrived at the Cubao terminal along EDSA, we had to take a taxi (P150.00) to take us at the back of the Araneta Center where the buses for Bicol can be found. If not for our huge bags, we could've saved as it was just a short distance. Anyway, we bought our bus tickets (Isarog Lines) before getting our lunch at Wendy's. I totally recommend their macaroni salad (P97.00). It is good for 2-3 persons and it is all worth it. After lunch, we took the MRT3 from the Farmer's Plaza station to North Ave. station (fare-P11.00; MRT stations: GMA-Kamuning-Quezon Ave.-North Ave./Shaw Ave.) to windowshop in TriNoma while we wait for our scheduled trip to Legazpi on that same evening.

6:30pm dinner at the TriNoma foodcourt. (I decided to try bangus sisig with coke.) Then, we headed straight back to Araneta Center thru the MRT3 again. As it was early yet for our 9:00pm bus departure, we decided to try Razon's Halo-halo, Araneta Center branch. This Pampangueño halo-halo is well-known for the creamy halo-halo and their delicious palabok.

9:25pm exact departure time of our bus with bus fare of P800.00 (Isarog Lines) for Legazpi and zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz......

Note:
There are several buses that ply the Manila-Naga-Legazpi route but their schedule are mostly during the night considering that the trip would take about 9-10 hours. They do have day schedules but the night schedules are more frequent. By the way, it is more advisable to purchase the bus tickets a day before the actual trip or at the very least, several hours before the actual trip as there are a lot of passengers. Another thing, it is much better to choose the bus with more leg room (such as those with lazy boy seats) as 9-10 hour land travel can be excruciating if you cannot stretch your legs much.

Contact numbers:
Isarog Bus Lines (Araneta Center) - (02)9133551
Peñafrancia Tours (Araneta Center) 09228882739

8/24/2009

Day 4: Luzon Tour (Batangas)

The bus terminal from San Fernando, Pampanga to Manila is located at the back of Robinson’s at San Fernando, Pampanga but a lot of people wait along the road instead of going to the terminal. This is what we did and we waited in front of SM Mall, San Fernando, Pampanga for the bus. It took us almost an hour to get a seat.

8:20-10am – San Fernando, Pampanga to Caloocan Terminal
(ordinary aircon bus, P87.00)

Upon arrival in Monumento, Caloocan City terminal, we took the Metro Railway Transit 3(MRT3) to Gil Puyat Station to get to the JACLiner Bus Company terminal for our trip to Batangas. The bus terminal is just right below the MRT Gil Puyat Station. There were several eateries located at the mezzanine floor of the bus terminal and it was accessible thru a service stair located at the terminal’s left side. The food price was cheap and it was quite good.

For those who are unfamiliar with the MRT stations here is the chronological order from Monumento to Gil Puyat:
Monumento-5tth Ave.-R. Papa-Abad Santos-Blumentritt-Tayuman-Bambang-Doroteo Jose-Carriedo-Central Station-UN (United Nations)-Pedro Gil-Quirino-Vito Cruz-Gil Puyat

The Batangas bus we had was the King Long bus of Ceres bus (a sister company of Jacliner bus).

11:30am-2pm-Jacliner terminal Gil Puyat station to Batangas City Port
Port. Fare: P166.50

Somebody told us that rental vans in Batangas City could only be found inside the Batangas port. So, we decided to get there for the van and were quite surprised for the with rental van rates. Nevertheless, we hired the van for P3,500 to get us around Batangas and afterwards, he would take us to Calamba.

Places we visited:
Batangas Provincial Capitol – the seat of government of Batangas Province.We were hoping to see the famous governor, Ate Vi (Vilma Santos) but we were told she was busy somewhere.

Basilica Taal de San Martin de Tours – biggest Catholic basilica church in the Far East. Another must-visit church in the Philippines. Not only is it imposing and commands a good view of the entire municipality of Taal as it sits on a hill, the paintings on its walls and ceilings are just beautiful and amazing. The surrounding area of the church is also a veritable historical place with Spanish-time houses and structures still in active use.

Basilica Lipa or San Sebastian Cathedral – the façade was newly repaired and renovated but the interior of the church still retained its old charm. Again, there are beautifully impressive wall and ceiling paintings inside the church. This is another must-see place.

We were supposed to visit the Mt. Carmel Church in Lipa City but when we reached it, its gates were already closed as it closes down at 6pm. We headed to Calamba, Laguna where we would spend the night at Star Andrea Hotel along National Highway, Calamba City.

At past 7:15pm, before heading to our hotel, we stopped by Leslie’s Restaurant for dinner.

Check-in time at the hotel is 8:30pm and lights out at 10:30pm.

Star Andrea Hotel’s room rate for family room is P1,500.00 per night with additional P150.00 for extra bedding. It was cheap but the bedsprings creaked and groaned. Bedsheets and towels were clean, the bathroom needed cleaning though.

Our rental van’s driver is good but when you are in Batangas City, try not to get your rental vans from the pier as the van drivers/operators are forced to charge more. Read more about it here.

Contact numbers:
Jacliner Bus Company: 09173002716, 09173055603 (cellphone number)
Rental van for hire: 09219617839-Tonton Landocho

Music Monday#17 Arisong by Hwangbo Hye Jung

This is Hwangbo's newest techtonik song and I like it. Actually, I like its dance steps more. Seems like Hwangbo's getting sexier. This song was first released online at UK's junodownload.com early this month before getting released in Hwangbo's native country, South Korea. So, let's dance!


credit: BeauEstella youtube

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8/23/2009

Day 3 Luzon Tour (Bulacan and Pampanga)

I have been trying to post a video of our jump in Marcos Island, Hundred Islands, Pangasinan but each time I tried, I got an error message. I shall try again in my coming posts but in the meantime, here's our Day 3 travel details.

We were picked up by our tricycle driver, Gerry, and his brother at 7:30am. They took us to the Victory bus terminal. The bus leaves at one-hour interval and our bus left at 8:10am from the Alaminos terminal; it arrived in Dau, Mabalacat, Pampanga terminal at 11:35am (fare: P224.00, ordinary aircon bus). We took another bus (non-aircon) just outside the Dau terminal for San Fernando (P30.00), it was just about 25 minutes ride.

At the San Fernando terminal, we looked for rental vans for our day trip. Rental rate was P2,700.00. Before we started our trip, we had lunch at KFC Restaurant, SM San Fernando.

At 1:50pm, we were on our way to Barasoain Chuch, Bulacan. When we arrived, there were people milling around the church as if waiting for somebody. It turned that somebody of prominent stature must have died as their city hall's flag was raised at half-mast. Anywayh, we took some pictures of the Barasoain Church and had bola-bola dipped in sauce and sago’t gulaman afterwards from the nearby stalls. Next stop was the Malolos Cathedral (Our Lady of Immaculate Concepcion Church), another historical church. Then we proceeded to the Provincial Capitol of Bulacan. As Malolos will celebrate its foundation day this coming August 31, 2009, buntings and banners were already visible everywhere. At the capitol building area, bamboo arches with intricate designs were already installed aside from the buntings and banners.

We then proceeded to San Rafael, Baliuag, an hour drive from Malolos to visit Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church with its blue-themed walls and ceilings with intricate beautiful designs. This is one of the most beautiful churches I have seen so far.

Next destination was the St. James the Apostle Church at Betis, Guagua, Pampanga. The church is called “The Sistine Chapel of the Philippines” for its beautifully-made ceilings and wall murals. It is one of the 26 churches all over the Philippines that was declared as a national treasure. Not only the church’s interiors were impressive but also its exteriors and surroundings. There were angel statues guarding its gates, its wooden antique doors have beautiful carvings (please! Somebody protect these as people tend to lean on them while hearing mass and vandals might destroy them).

We were supposed to proceed to swing by Bacolor Church, the lahar-submerged church that is getting more attention as part of the location site of TV sitcom, May Bukas Pa with Santino as the main character. But we got lost along the way and before we knew it, it was already dark and we have yet to find a place to sleep in.

We went back to San Fernando and decided to try Hotel Sogo which is right infront of SM San Fernando. The rooms were just for two persons but the hotel staff was kind enough to offer us a discount for the three rooms for the five of us. Surprisingly, the hotel was quite clean and even smelled good. At P540.00 for 12 hours, their rooms included TV and toilet and bath.

Dinner was at SM mall’s foodcourt and I tried the famous Aling Lucing’s Sisig at P71.00 with rice. We bought water and Gardenia breads at the grocery store. Back at Hotel Sogo before 9:00 pm and had our dessert of ube jam at the hotel room.

At 11:00 pm, it was lights out time.

8/22/2009

Day 2 Luzon Tour (Island Hopping in Hundred Islands National Park)

Today was a real blast. The weather was good, the sea was calm, the islands were beautiful and we did a lot of swimming and eating. For that, I am now a stuffed brownie girl.

We started our day taking pictures of sunrise from Maxine By the Sea before 6am. Entrance fee for the Hundred Islands is at P20.00 for the day tour (P40.00 for the overnight stay with 20% discount for Senior Citizens).

Our island hopping started at 8am. First island we visited was Governor’s Island which commands a breathtaking view of the islands from its top view deck. The view deck took us about 5 minutes to climb. The island is also where the Pinoy Big Brother House is located, a P10,000 per night house for rent. Some Hundred Islands pics here.


Next stop is Cuenco Island for some picture taking. We saw a black snake with white stripes slithering from a hole a few meters away from where we took our pictures.

Marcos island boasts of a natural bathing pool inside it. It can only be accessible by jumping off from the cave opening located at the island’s highest point. Getting out of the pool was done by swimming out of the natural cave opening beside is.

For the jump, it took us several minutes to decide as it looked scary especially as the bats were flying around. A flight of stairs going down made the jump a bit shorter though.

We had our lunch in Quezon Island which is one of the three islands (Governor, Children and Quezon islands) being maintained by the government. Lunch was grilled fresh fish (Samaran) and grilled pork, newly-cooked rice and afterwhich, downed by ice-cold coke. At the peak of this island is a statue of President Manuel L. Quezon and another breathtaking view of the islands, another photo op from this place.

After doing some swimming and picture taking in Quezon island, we decided to visit the following islands:

Cathedral, it has a huge cave opening that looks like a cathedral.
Lopez, very nice for swimming and snorkelling with powdery-fine white sand and a small beach with rock formations.
Scout, another island with powdery fine white sand beach that could rival Boracay’s.

At 3:30pm, it was time to get home for a much-needed break. At 7pm, we took our sumptuous seafood dinner in one of the eateries at Lucap wharf and bought some souvenirs.

I would really like to thank our boatman and tour guide, Gerry. He was not only our boatman but also our tricycle driver and cook (for our lunch). He also helped us in finding cheaper accommodations and the best swimming spots. For those who are planning to visit the Hundred Islands, check out Gerry’s number below.

Contact numbers:
Maxine by the Sea - 09216428551
Gerry (boatman/tour guide) – 09109605897

Pictures and a video shall follow in my subsequent posts.

8/21/2009

Day 1 Luzon Tour (Hundred Islands National Park, Pangasinan)

Manila Airport Arrival at 9:20am.

Walked to bus stop for Cubao.

How to get there: Bus stop is located a few meters away from the arrival area, turn left just after passing thru the exit door and walk a few meters away by the overpass. The bus stop is just beside it. The bus ride is about one hour from the airport to the Cubao Terminal for Alaminos, Pangasinan.

There are several buses going to and from Alaminos, Pangasinan but we decided to use Victory Liner. Its Cubao Terminal is located along EDSA just a few meters from Aurora Boulevard.

We took the 1130am schedule (the bus leaves hourly), bus ticket for aircon bus is P352.00 (inclusive of P5.00 insurance). Arrived in Alaminos City at 430pm.

Jump-off point for Hundred Islands National Park is located at Brgy. Lucap, Alaminos City, Pangasinan. It is 6 kilometers away from the downtown. Several tricycles ply the area (no jeepneys) and the going rate is P60.00 one-way or P12.00 per person. There are several inns, hotels and transient houses and they are usually cheaper than those in downtown.

We booked one room at Maxine By The Sea. Room Rate (with TV, toilet and bath) is P2,000 for 4 persons per night, additional bedding is P300. Maxine by the Sea is just a few meters away from Lucap’s Tourism Information Center and the souvenir shops.

Mobile Blogging With Smart Bro Prepaid Broadbrand

Right now, am in the bus somewhere in Bulacan. Getting bored, I decided to try Smart Bro's prepaid broadband to see if it could actually connect while am mobile. What do you know, after a few minutes, I got connected. Talk about getting connected everywhere you go. Wohooo! I won't miss my blogs much, after all even if I'm on vacation unless am in some beach because I'd be just happy to forget my blogs for awhileo.

Anyho...I was expecing some traffic along EDSA earlier today but all were smooth-sailing. I wonder where are the activities for the Ninoy Aquino Day right now. Will go get some nap now. It seems my companions are already deep in their own dreamlands right now. Cya!

8/20/2009

Mindanao Travel Expo

I swung by the Mindanao Travel Expo after doing my workout tonight to find some travel tour packages. The expo is being held at Davao Convention Center and there was an outdoor buffet dinner going on at the parking lot when I got there at past 6pm. People were lining up for the food and there was a calf being roasted on an open pit. I almost went over the fenced in area to line up and it took me a minute to realize that it was not the reason why I went there. Anyway, back to the real topic...

The travel expo showcases the best and the must-see destinations of Mindanao plus some areas in the Philippines. I was able to get some information regarding our upcoming trip somewhere in Luzon but was a bit disappointed that some of the stalls closed early.

I was pleasantly surprised to see that more and more Mindanao provinces are claiming their stake in the tourism industry. In the previous travel expos that I have attended, there were more Luzon and Visayas stakeholders. But now, I have seen from the expo that there are some quite interesting places to check out here in Mindanao which are nearer from my city.

So, for those who are planning to travel in and around the Philippines, check out the ongoing Mindanao Travel Expo at Davao Convention Center, Torres St., Davao City. The expo will last until August 22, 2009.

For my kababayans, huwag maging dayuhan sa sariling bayan! Suroy ta!

Litratong Pinoy#64 Merienda (Snack)

I have observed that there are more coffee bar/cafes sprouting everywhere I go. They have their own specialties and gimmicks to attract customers; most of them have free wifi connection, which is why these places are favorite hangouts of the young ones nowadays. Here in our city, I feel dizzy with the menagerie of snack choices from these coffee bar/cafes. See, take your pic...

Pilipino:
Napansin ko lang, parami nang parami ang nagsusulputang coffee bar/cafe maski saan ako magpunta. May kanya-kanyang espesiyalidad at gimik sila para mapansin; karamihan may libreng wi-fi koneksyon kaya paboritong tambayan ng mga kabataan ngayon. Dito naman sa amin, nalulula ako sa dami ng mapagpipiliang pang-merienda sa mga coffee bar/cafes na ito. Ayan, mamili na kayo...



This is what we ordered from Fagioli Coffee Club, cheesecake and a cool drink. Delicious!

Pilipino:
Eto iyong inorder namin sa Fagioli Coffee Club, cheesecake at malamig na panghimagas...Masarap!



8/17/2009

Ruby Tuesday#13 Kadayawan's Horticulture Exhibit

Kadayawan festival has already started this weekend and a lot of things are happening around the city. Here are some beautiful reds I took at the Horticulture Exhibit this weekend:



This is my entry for:

Go here for more..

I would also like to thank Mary, the sponsor of Ruby Tuesday meme, for sending me a postcard of the red lighthouse. It was so pretty!

8/16/2009

Music Monday#16 Bayan Ko by Lea Salonga

The title of the song is Bayan Ko (My Country) which was written as protest song against American occupation before World War II. One of the most prominent Philippine patriotic songs throughout the years, it has been used in protest rallies and demonstations. It gained more popularity during the funeral of Senator Benigno Aquino and afterwards the EDSA Revolution in 1986.

Tony Awardee Lea Salonga sang this song last August 5, 2009 during the funeral service of former Philippine president Corazon C. Aquino, the widow of Senator Benigno Aquino.



credit: youtube theDivas08


English Translation:
MY COUNTRY

My country the Philippines
Land of gold and flowers
With love in her palms
She offers beauty and virtue.
And of her modesty and beauty
The foreigner was attracted
O, my country, you were enslaved
Mired in hardship.
Even birds that are free to fly
Cage them and they cry,
Much more a beautiful country
Shall long to be free.
Philippines my beloved,
Cradle of my tears and poverty
I'll aspire,
To see you truly free.

Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. One simple rule, leave ONLY the actual post link here. You can grab this code at LJL Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted without prejudice.




PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

Sunday Stealing#10 The Blame Tara Meme

Today we ripped this meme off a blogger known as MelRoXx of the blog Life of a Mean Jean. She explains that she was tagged to do the meme by gaelikaa and she states that it's called The Blame Tara Meme. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Cheers to all us thieves!

Sunday Stealing: The Blame Tara Meme

Question 1: Who do you think is the hottest movie star?.
Both Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise

Question 2: Apart from your house and your car, what is the most expensive thing you have ever bought?
Plane ticket for travel, Digital camera

Question 3: What is your most treasured memory?
Too many to list down.

Question 4: What is the best gift you’ve ever received as a child?
Each time my family gets together without much squabbles

Question 5: What is the biggest mistake you’ve ever made?
Did something that I should've not done that nearly got me into jail just because of a friend.

Question 6: Give four words to describe yourself.
Hardworking, lifelong learner, traveller, dreamer-achiever.

Question 7: What was your highlight or lowlight of 2008?
The 2008 highlight was my travel to Shanghai. The lowlight 2008 was my father getting hospitalized for a week due to hypertension.

Question 8: What was your most embarrassing moment?
I fell face down while going down the vehicle near the church's door and there were so many people who saw it.

Question 9: Tell something not generally known about yourself.
I have a mole on each sole of my feet.

Question 10: If you were a comic strip/cartoon character, who would you be?
Garfield, I want to know how to be lazy, scheming and obnoxious while being funny about it.

8/15/2009

PhotoHunt#53 Artificial

One cannot help but be amazed once inside Venetian Resort Hotel Casino in Macau. The place is imposing but nonetheless very, very impressive. It felt like being transported straight to Europe more specificially to Venice, Italy, the City of Canals.

With the artificial glorious blue skies complete with singing gondoliers on gondolas as they cruise on the artificial canal, it is just so easy to feel that indeed, the place is Venice, Italy.

By the way, this is also where the Boys Over Flowers cast did one of their location shootings. Wish we were there when they did it, I could've done some fan craziness upon seeing Kim Hyun Joong, Lee Min Ho and the rest of the cast :)

More Venetian Hotel pictures here.

This is my entry for:

For more photohunters, go here.

8/13/2009

Litratong Pinoy#63 Tanghalian (Lunch)

We had lunch at Oh My Gulay Restaurant in Session Road, Baguio before. Their main attraction is the vegetarian food using fresh vegetable produce from Baguio. Even their pasta had vegetables and herbs. It was delicious and unique, it was easy to have more.

The place is owned by the well-known artist Kidlat Tahimik (Eric de Guia). It is a combined restaurant-art gallery, which is why you can wander around or feast your eyes looking at art items while eating their fresh food.

Pilipino:
Nakapananghalian kami sa Oh My Gulay Restaurant sa Session Road, Baguio noon. Kilala sila sa pagkaing puro gulay gamit ang mga preskong gulay ng Baguio. Pati iyong mga pasta nila gulay at mga halaman ang sahog. Aba! masarap siya at kakaiba, pwedeng balik-balikan.

Pag-aari ang kainang ito ng kilalang si Kidlat Tahimik (Eric de Guia). Ang lugar ay pinaghalong kainan at art gallery kaya habang kumakain ka pwede mong igala ang iyong paningin sa paligid o di kaya mamasyal doon dahil maraming mga bagay-bagay na makasining na makikita maliban sa masarap at presko nilang pagkain.





8/10/2009

Ruby Tuesday#12 Kadayawan Time!

Yay! It is Kadayawan time this August so do not be surprised if I will be posting more pictures from my most favorite Philippine festival. Here is a picture of one of the participants of the Indak-indak sa Kadayawan. Braving the scorching heat and dancing to the beat of the drums, these kids danced with much enthusiasm and they got me really awestruck.


This is my entry for:

Go here for more..

8/09/2009

Music Monday#15 Mirotic by DBSK/Tohoshinki/TVXQ

I really like this song even if I cannot sing it properly because of its Korean lyrics (thank goodness for the translations in youtube) but it's ok because I can still dance with it. I find the song and its music video quite catchy and sexy. DBSK or TVXQ (Tohoshinki in Japan) is one of the South Korean boy groups that I like. They are very good performers and can actually sing live (some SK boybands prefer lipsynching). Anyway, I do hope that DBSK can resolve their issues with their management, SM Entertainment, as soon as possible as their fans are getting worried about their band's status.


credit: View3045(youtube)

Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. One simple rule, leave ONLY the actual post link here. You can grab this code at LJL Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted without prejudice.




PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

Sunday Stealing#9 Now Vs. Then

Today we ripped this meme off a blogger known as Tattooed Minivan Mom from the blog The Scattered Mind of a Tattooed Minivan Mom. She explains that she got it from Janana Bee. It appears Jana might have actually written this meme. But, it could have stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Cheers to all us thieves!

Sunday Stealing: Janana's Now Vs. Then Meme
It's been a while since we had to post rules. But here we will list the relevent ones:

*Think back to ten years ago on this month.
*Write truthful answers and ELABORATE. This makes it more interesting!
*If you don't have a scanner you may omit #14 but I think if you do you should totally do it!
*It's about personal changes. Have fun with it!

Then: August 1999

1. Age: 31

2. Romantic Status: single

3. Occupation: working

4. Fun night out: clubhopping and internet surfing

5. My BFFs: Ruby, Glen, Anne, PI

6. I spent way too much time: on clubhopping and on the internet

7. I spent not enough time: doing my schoolwork and housework

8. I wanted to be when I grew up: rich with my own business

9. Biggest concern: what was the latest dance craze and what was the latest on the internet

10. What my biggest concern should have been: how to save more, finishing school work on time

11. Where did I live: with parents

12. Dumbest thing I did that year: Fell in love

13. If I could go back now and talk to myself I would say: "You broke your promise to yourself. Stupid!"

14. Picture of me then: sorry, I can't put it in here :)

Now: August 2009

1. Age: just add up my age from 1999 hehehehe!

2. Romantic Status: not sure

3. Occupation: working

4. Fun night out: nightlife is dead but I still spend more time on the internet

5. My BFFs: Anne, the Happy Hearts, M

6. I spend way too much time: on the internet

7. I spend not enough time: doing household work

8. I want to be when I grow up: am all grown up now. in fact, am getting old.

9. Biggest concern: work

10. What my biggest concern should be: family, savings, future investments

11. Where do I live: parents

12. Dumbest thing I have done this year: so far, nothing yet

13. What I think I would say to myself in 10 years: "You have done well but you could have done much better."

Summary:

1. What do I miss most from 1999: times spent with friends. A lot of them are abroad now.

2. What do I miss least from 1999: nothing

3. What have I accomplished in 10 years that I am most proud of: I got promoted, travelled to some places I have only dreamed of, have met and known some amazing people and finished my graduate studies

4. What have I NOT accomplished in 10 years that I wish I had: put up my own business and save for some investments

8/08/2009

PhotoHunt#52 Low

It was early morning when we arrived at Costa Marina Beach Resort, Samal Island. The tide was still low and there were just a few people by the beach; a very ideal setting for me and I was just too happy to hurry to get to the waters. Bliss!


This is my entry for:

For more photohunters, go here.

8/07/2009

Shiny Shinies Jewelry Contest by Papemelroti

I am a fan of Papemelroti. Their products are always unique, adorable and there is always something Filipino in them. I really wish there is a branch here in our city and I would be one happy papemelroti customer if that will happen. Anyway, the store is having a contest giveaway that will end this August 8, 2009. An original beautiful necklace from papemelroti. Check it out here.

8/05/2009

Litratong Pinoy#62 Almusal (Breakfast)

What's the best breakfast for a Pinoy like me? Nothing fancy, really. I just need newly-cooked rice (never mind if it was overcooked as can be seen in the photo) and fish cooked in three different ways: deep fried, sauteed with onion, garlic and ginger and the ever-favorite salted, dried and fried daing. There is even a coconut vinegar dip nearby. No spoon nor fork needed as Pinoys can survive eating barehanded anywhere.

It's eating time!

Pilipino:
Ano ba'ng pinakamagaling na almusal para sa isang Pinoy na kagaya ko? Simple lang. Kailangan lang ng bagong lutong kanin (hindi baleng nasunog nang konti gaya ng nasa litrato) at isda na niluto sa tatlong iba't ibang paraan: pinirito, iginisa sa bawang, sibuyas at luya at ang walang kamatayang paboritong piniritong daing. May sawsawang niyog na suka pa sa malapit. Hindi na kailangan ang kutsara o tinidor at nakakakain naman tayong mga Pinoy nang nakakamay.

Kainan na!!


This photo was taken in Siargao before we took off going to Sohoton cove. It was a good thing that we had a big breakfast because our lunch was done at 2pm already. We had so much fun we forgot to eat.

Pilipino:
Kuha ang litratong ito sa Siargao bago kami umalis papuntang Sohoton cove. Buti nalang, marami ang kinain naming almusal dahil alas-dos na kami nakapananghalian. Sobrang nag-enjoy kami at nakalimutang kumain kasi.

Paalam, Madame President Cory Aquino

After watching tearfully on TV the very beautiful funeral mass for former President Corazon "Cory" Aquino at the Manila Cathedral this morning, I am now watching the live streaming video of Cory's funeral cortege.

Today is the burial day of the beloved former president known for her quiet courage and gentle ways. She was the only president that I ever believed in and the only president who was able to unite the country to fight for democracy and freedom.

Maraming salamat at paalam, Tita Cory.

8/03/2009

Ruby Tuesday#11 Indak-indak sa Kadayawan

Participants of the Indak-indak sa Kadayawan festival. We got hungry watching the event and we decided to go home and then we saw them. The colors were really vibrant!


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Music Monday#14 Get Hot by Hwangbo Hye Jung

Another technotonik song that I have been playing again and again in my MP3 nowadays. This song is entitled Get Hot from a Korean singer, HwangBo. This song was quite popular in South Korea last year. The dance was choreographed by DJ Koo, the one that did another techtonick song, Let Me.
Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. One simple rule, leave ONLY the actual post link here. You can grab this code at LJL Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted without prejudice.






8/02/2009

Sunday Stealing #8

Today we ripped this meme off a blogger known as Suzanne from the blog Because Life is a Blessing. She thanks Alpha for the meme. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Cheers to all us thieves!

Sunday Stealing: The Alpha Meme

My roommate and I once: ate all the snacks hidden inside my mother's cabinet.

Never in my life have I: tried drugs or marijuana. The latter was easily accessible during my high school days.

High school was: the best and the worst days of my life. They were very memorable and unforgettable for me.

When I’m nervous: I sweat too much.

My hair: needs hot oil treatment. Am just too lazy to do it or to get somebody to do it for me.

When I was 5: I was already admitted to Grade 1.

When I turn my head left: I can see my messy wall cabinet. It really needs cleaning up.

I should be: preparing for my weekend tennis right now.

By this time next year: I will be in Europe; am keeping my fingers crossed for that.

My favorite aunt is: Aunt L. She's straightforward, open-minded and fun.

I have a hard time understanding: why some people act the way they did nowadays.

You know I like you if: I keep asking about your personal information.

My ideal breakfast is: rice and fish and/or vegetables, hot coffee or hot chocolate.

If you visit my home town: do not forget to check out our durian fruit and our beaches.

If you spend the night at my house: you better get used to moving in small spaces. Our house is cramped.

The animal I would like to see flying besides birds: elephants, tigers and lions.

I shouldn’t have been: expecting too much but expect I did. I shouldn't been sleeping late again. I really need to get back to sleeping earlier than 12 midnight.

Last night I: slept very late watching Corazon Aquino documentaries. Felt really sad that she is gone now.

A better name for me would be: Alexandra, Maxine.

I’ve been told I look like: Angelina Jolie?

If I could have any car, it would be: Ferrari or Mini Cooper, if I can afford them.

8/01/2009

Former Pres. Corazon Aquino Is Dead

Let us offer our prayers for the repose of the soul of former Philippine President Corazon "Cory" Aquino. She is one of my heroes and it is really saddening that the Philippines lost its one of the most stalwart believers. She will always be remembered as the icon of Philippine democracy. For the Filipino people, she was the mother that they needed to guide them out through the dictatorship of the Marcos regime and the strength to draw upon during its aftermath.

As for me, Cory Aquino made me appreciate more that I am a Filipino, that I should be proud of my heritage and that I should fight for freedom and democracy. Without Cory Aquino, the Filipinos would never learn how to appreciate their worth and the sacrifices her husband, Ninoy, had to go through just to attain the democracy the Filipinos have come to be famous for.

To Tita Cory: May you rest in peace. You'll always be remembered. God bless.

PhotoHunt#51 Entertainment

August is the Kadayawan month wherein Davao City celebrates the annual Kadayawan festival to commemorate the harvest time of Davao and its surrounding areas. The festival also puts together activities and events that celebrate the indigenous tribes of Mindanao and their culture. One such event is this exhibit of different types of houses of the indigenous tribes at the Osmeña park fronting San Pedro Cathedral of this city. This showcases not only how the tribes live but also some of their traditions and cultures.

As common among Filipinos, people from indigenous tribes like to celebrate and entertain themselves by singing and dancing using their own musical instrument. We came across this particular house with some of its elders singing and dancing along with some visitors who were mostly teeners who tried to learn their dance steps.


Garbed in their own traditional costumers making music with their own traditional musical instruments, who needs iPod or radio to get entertained?


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