Teacher Stories

From: hothotbuzz.com

October 5, is commemorated as world teachers day... and in this day... I would mention a lot about teachers

• When I was a kid, I also dream of becoming a teacher
• My mom is my first teacher. She was the one busy making exams and quizzes for me.
• I will never forget my elementary teacher Ms. Tan because she threw my notebook outside the classroom. I was busy copying notes rather than listening to her
• Mrs. Manalo, taught our Grade 5 class to become bookworms and wide reader. Part of my being a bookworm aside from my mother is my grade 5 adviser. She encourage us to read books everyday aside from our schoolbooks
• I cannot forget my 2nd year adviser Mrs. Perez because of that yearlong scrapbook on Values Education. My talent as an artist never developed :P
• I am afraid of my 3rd year adviser Mrs. Alfonso. Her killing stare makes you sweat like a pig in her Algebra class
• I love my fourth year adviser Mrs. Esteban, she was the one who encouraged me to do my best and come out on the top of the class. We still hang out today and catch up with my HS friends once in a while 
• I tutored Mrs. Esteban’s twins.
• I hate my Accounting teacher Mr. Talavera. Enough said. If you’re in my batch, you know what I’m talking about
• I like Sir David’s dedication to me before our HS graduation for our English literature subject. Up until this day, his message rings in my ear. “You are one of the rare species that would make the world a better place”
• I like my Symbolic teacher, which I already forgot her surname. She was the one who exempt me from taking the final exams during first year college
• I hate Mrs. Arguson, she was the major reason why I did not qualified for the dean’s lister roster. She gave me an unknown 2.75 and I regularly attend her classes. That f*cking 2.75 cost me my whole transcript of records and a shot for a latin honors.
• I miss Mam Nofuente, my Philippine Constitution and JRizal professor. She was one of those few professors in college who believes in the capacity of her students
• I would never forget Mr. Vergara whom I clashed during system design defense and other reporting in college.Now, Ryan is one of my colleagues and closest friends. He was the one who encourage me to get out of academe and work at IT industry. Until this day, I am still grateful for his kind words of wisdom and encouragement
• I don’t like my Physics professor Mr. Macha, he tends to throw things at his students when he is irked or irritated on our noise
• Most of my major subjects’ professors are my friends.
• I became a computer instructor after graduating from college. Teaching is fun. But I need to live
• I miss my computer engineering students and some of my computer studies students
• I am proud and happy to know that my previous students are achievers in the IT industry.
• I hate to admit that I get thrilled when asked to be a panellist in Thesis and other major subject defenses. It gave me different kind of rush ;)
• My dad who showed things that weren’t taught in classroom. He told me how to strive hard to achieve my dreams and goals in life
• To my previous bosses Sir Eboy and Sir Ferdie, who showed me what should be real bosses, are. Warm, good-natured, funny, approachable and open to endless ideas.
• To my 3rd organization officemate/teammates, who in some way imparted me useful criticisms and office etiquettes, I owe it a lot because it helped me become a better colleague
• To my Hypercom experience, it taught me different realizations and gave way on reaching one dream before... to work on my dream company today. It just shows that when things end there might be a more beautiful scenario unfolding right before your eyes.

Movie: No Other Woman

From: starmometer.com

Last Saturday, I was out with my college friend K and my SO. We watched NOW since we were all intrigued by the trailer. We went to Alabang Town Center hoping to catch the 3:00pm showing since K is reminding me about the huge queues for the movie tickets. Thankfully Alabang Town Center has reservation seats so we were comfortably seated. I and SO bought movie tickets before taking lunch at CPK. After our lunch we went inside the cinema and true enough, the movie house is filling up fast. Buti nalang we bought tickets earlier and choose a strategic seat so we can enjoy watching the movie.

I would say NOW is a good movie. It tackles the modern tale of marriage and infidelity issues. Even those people who are not yet married or not a mistress can relate to the movie. It showed how modern marriages evolved and how modern women fight for their love and marriage. It was really nice seeing Anne Curtis levelling up as one of the upcoming versatile actress nailing her role as the mistress of Derek Ramsay and it was nice seeing Cristine Reyes improving her acting skills. Carmi Martin is also a great add up to the cast since she brought funny lines on marriage and mistresses. My favourite scene in the movie is the confrontation scene where Anne and Cristine battle with their bikinis on up to the part where Cristine is seething dark with anger about affair and her breakdown with Derek. As the movie is nearing its end, there is just one big message across the whole affair, the guy would always end up with his wife and for the mistresses, its no use fighting and breaking up someone’s marriage. Because in the end, you will only end up hurt and broken. A mistress is always at the losing end, period.

To sum up the movie, here are my favourite lines from the movie characters 

Carmi Martin: (Cristine’s mom who got the funniest lines)
• Kung ahas siya mas ahas ako! Tahimik pero kapag kinanti – nanunuklaw!
This was during the 50th anniversary of Cristine’s grand parents crying in her golden dress (that depicts her noveau rich status in life) and dealing with her own marriage problem

• Naku. Ganyan talaga kapag galing sa makating dikya, nagmamarka.
Seeing that all too-familiar hickey in her son-in-law’s neck...

• Ang mundo ay isang malaking Quiapo. Maraming snatcher. Maagawan ka. Lumaban ka!
Tarush! This should be every girl’s mom!

• Panahon na para i-pack-up ‘yang si Lucy Torres mo. Ilabas mo na diyan si Gretchen Barretto. Sabi nga niya sa Magkaribal, ‘You want war? I’ll give you war.’ Anak, ako na ang bahala sa red stilettos mo!
This is another one fantastic line! This is while Carmi Martin was encouraging Cristine to fight back the mistress of her husband.

• Pare-parehong p*ta lang iyon! Yung p*tang mayaman, original ang Hermes. Yung mahirap, binili sa Greenhills.
This was the most hilarious line of all! Everyone was laughing inside the movie house.

Anne Curtis: (as the sosyal and seductive playgirl / heiress Kara Zalderiaga)
• I know the market, because I AM the market.
Bratty si ate! :P

• No pressure. Just shut up and kiss me. And don’t you dare fall in love with me.
Pero na-fall din sya :P

• Wе’re јυѕt two consenting adults having fun, thеrе’s nο emotional attachment
Yeah right… this is just a statement of someone playing safe… and I have to agree on Anne’s gay friend in the movie, fun sa una pero once everything is out in the open that’s another story… (bakit ba ako affected masyado sa movie???)

• I’m not a mistress. I never was and I never will be one.
Talaga lang ha...

• A woman will only be a mistress if there’s an emotional attachment.
But eventually, you will have an emotional attachment.. ilang beses na sinabi yan sa Cosmo magazine! Mapa-international cover or local cover :P Hindi nagbabasa si ate :P hahahah

• They’re my guilty pleasures. But I really don’t feel guilty ‘cause I deserve them.
This was pertaining to the bag that Anne and Cristine is been fighting for. It might be symbolic to say that the bag is Derek ;)

• Buti pinapasok ka dito sa resort... bawal kasi ang ugaling squatter dito eh...
This is pertaining to Cristine during their confrontation scene in the resort. Kabugan lang ng lines...

• Paano mo naman malalaman na masarap pala pag di mo titikman? Kahit alam mong bawal, labanan mo cos’ eventually your body will just get used to it.
I was smiling while seeing this scene. It can be a double meaning but Anne is pertaining to seafood allergies.

• You can call me anything you want: a snake, a bitch, an other woman. But I will never be a pathetic, boring housewife.
Kasi naman ang boring ni Cristine eh... how can you compete with Anne’s bikini... sige nga... hahaha :D

• Gagawin ko ang lahat wag mo lang akong iwan
Ouch! Super desperate move ate! :P

• Ano ang gagawin ninyo if the only man you love is unfortunately married? I am not gonna give up Ram without putting a goddamn fight!
This is also a winner scene! I love it while Anne was throwing the wine glass... sabi nya kanina, no emotional attachment pala ha... :P

Cristine Reyes: (as Derek’s subservient wife who later on fights back)
• Alam mo ba ang tawag sa mang-aagaw ng asawa? Ahas! Bikini mo ba iyan o balat mo?
Winner ang katarayan! And it was right on because in that scene Anne is wearing a snake skin print bikini while Cristine on the other hand was wearing boring two piece bikini. :D

• Baka makita mo pang nilalagyan ko ng lason ang pagkain mo. Joke lang. Medyo off yung humor ko lately.
You should be really scared... and if I’m in Cristine’s position, I would do the same :P

• Mababaliw siguro ako kapag nalaman kong may babae siya. Baka mapatay ko iyong kabit. Silang dalawa, actually.
You should be really really scared... homicidal tendencies... :P

• Alam mo kasi ang marriage parang exclusive village. Kailangan mong bantayan para hindi makapasok ang mga squatters.
Tariray to the highest level ang wifey ;)

• Why don’t you have dinner with us tonight? Pa-thank you ko na rin dahil kinuha mo ang asawa ko… bilang supplier ng furtinure sa resort niyo.
Hahaha! May kasunod pala kala ko kung pano kinuha...

• The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Pero sa ganda mong iyan, siguradong marami kang alam na shortcuts.
And then right on cue, Derek says cheers... hahaha. Makahalata kayo sa subtle message ni misis :P

• Ano bang mas madaling kalaban, yung p*tang mahirap o yung p*tang mayaman?
May difference ba yun? Carmi Martin already said the difference :P hahaha

• Hindi ako to! Pero ginagawa ko to para sayo!
Heartbreaking

Other funny lines in the movie:
Saleslady: Ma’am marami pa po kami stock ng bag na yan.

And this was after Anne and Cristine were already exchanging dagger looks and venomous lines while fighting for the blue designer bag. Si ateng saleslady saka lang nagsalita!

Kitkat: May pa-party ba si Barney at hindi ako invited?!

This was seeing Anne and Cristine in the same purple color of their clothes while in a mall

Late Post: Find the X....

From: fanpop.com

Find the value of X... the first problem you encounter while solving that damn Algebra exam or quiz. The common variable used in programming languages. The common letter that depicts a lot of meaning. Even in lovelife, X is something you cannot forget or you want to forget and move to hell... just kidding! :P

My entry is not about finding X in Algebra nor solves that damned X variable in programming language, let alone put it in a symbolic logic subject or that legendary Venn diagram. It’s about an opinion on X (not X-men, also :P). Before this entry would end up as a pretentious and highly categorized as “corny” by my trusted readers or followers (if there’s any :P), it’s all about my musings about exes. When does you put the line and boundaries when dealing with ex? Is it possible that exes could be good friends after a bitter ordeal or is it much better forgetting them at all for a smooth moving on? Some people say that being good friends with ex shows maturity and moving forward without bitterness. I’ve been in relationships wherein I wasn’t the first girlfriend so I am always expecting there was an existing ex somewhere. Ever since I’ve been asking myself, how far should two exes be civilized enough to respect their current partners? I’m not saying it’s not good keeping in touch with ex but is it possible to avoid any other communication that would totally rekindle any suppressed feelings? I’ve written this note because last Sunday, I was out with my college friend K, we’ve been discussing about relationship matters (this is while having Wendy’s dinner at Festival). It came up on the discussion of previous relationships. I must admit that one factor and one of the major reasons why I end up my 6 years relationship is because of an ex-girlfriend aside from other trivial issues. Me and K were discussing that previous relationships has an effect on the current ones especially if the two parties are not yet into moving forward stage or if the other party are still chasing after your partner. It was sordid affair I would say. I and K both agreed on one thing and this one of my lessons learned: It’s not advisable to enter in a relationship wherein your current partner has issues on the exes. It just destroys trust and start of endless arguments that eventually would lead into fateful demise of your relationship. If your prospective partner is not yet in the process of moving on, it is better if you just find someone else who do not have any conflicts or hang-ups on previous relationships. In line to this discussion, I’ve put up my own list of my opinion towards on dealing with exes.

1. As much as possible during and after break-up, do not contact your ex. Moving forward means having clean slate and doing things on your own. Any kind of hang-ups whether big or small issues could have an impact on your determination of moving on
2. If you are in a relationship, it is better to be honest to your current partner. He or She has a right to know what happened why your previous relationship didn’t work. Whoever’s fault is the break-up, it is still important that your current partner knows the real reason and score
3. Though some would suggest it would be better that you are civil with your ex, do not try to be close or be friends again. I am a firm believer that no two exes could be best friends. Not unless both parties want to rekindle the relationship or give it a shot or hoping in the future...
4. Respect your current partner. It’s not good communicating with ex while in a relationship. Even if your partner is 100% or 200% understanding about it, it would take a toll on your relationship. I remembered in my previous relationship, that my ex is still communicating with his ex since they are college classmates and friends, though I may be cool and OK with it, I had to admit it came to a point wherein I was already full of rage and seething deep inside because of his unknown meetups with his former flame. I was ready to shoot daggers with my ex that time. :P
5. As much as possible dispose all things that remind of your ex. Not only it will help you on moving on but it is also a sign of respect to your current partner. There’s no use going back on old letters, pictures, dried up flowers and other memorabilias which stirs up pent-up emotions (not unless you’re still holding on to something you let go)

Breaking up is hard and a bitter ordeal. Dealing with exes is another story and scenario. But as my mom reminded me months ago, “when you end up things with someone, make sure you are strong enough to move on and fight the urge of going back together.” My mom told me that there’s no use getting back on someone who you thought you had issues. Once you dropped the verdict in your relationship, be strong and firm in sticking in your life changing decisions. As you move forward, ex should be a thing of the past by now. It should be a reminder on lessons learned in love and not a reminder of what-ifs.

Late Post: Break Up Diaries

From: weheartit.com

Endless nights of crying to sleep. Binge-eating chocolate and any sweet pastries you can get your hands. Watching DVD marathon of romantic-comedies and other funny chick flicks just to make you feel good about yourself. Minus the fact that after a few sordid moments of movie credits you’ll be back on your bawling marathon. Reading chic-lit novels just to ward off the harmful thoughts. Dreaming in your own room wishing one day he would come back or wishing you will find a much more deserving man in your life. Living in denial that nothing is changed in your life. You sneaked one or two bottles of vodka just to fall asleep and forget those sordid days when all got to do is fight and rebel against each other. Shopping-spree like there’s no tomorrow wishing those beautiful shoes and dress would make you feel better just because deep inside you feel ugly and unappreciated. You even went on going on a solo trip just to find yourself. You splurge on a fine dining restaurant alone just to enjoy the perks of things your ex didn’t do to you. You were even contemplating on yourself if you’re going to avail checking in a five-star hotel on your own just to pamper your tired heart and mind.

These are the common scenarios during break-up or most of them anyway. It will left you hurt and broken. It feels like you’re drowning in sorrow and madness. You feel like this won’t end and you feel like you were cursed straight from hell. If it weren’t for that career you’ve been working for years, you’ll be devastated again as hell. Girls always went through in this scenario. No matter how old you are, you will always experience the pain of breaking up in the relationship. No matter whose party it was on deciding the big B, it will always be painful and depressing. We’ve been through different stages of relationship and in journey of finding THE ONE we always encountered the truth that breaks-up really hurts. Break ups can make or break us. For some it would mean sinking deeper into despair, desolation and depression. For some it would be a momentous realization that you deserve someone better than that scumbag ex of yours. For some it would make you fiercer and more motivated to prove your ex that you are way better without him. Whatever circumstances break up brings, always remember this, things happen for a reason because God knows all the time what type of person is suited for you. We weren’t thrown into a situation that we can’t come out unscathed. Also, break-ups are another way of embracing new chapter in our lives. We may be regretting or crying over our ex because of all issues and problems that weren’t fixed while in a relationship. Be thankful it happened because something more beautiful, exciting and adventurous life awaits us. I know, I know, break-ups are shits and I am a living testament that it really is, but always generate a positive outlook, that it is the start of something beautiful in our lives. Dry those tears, cheer yourself up and pamper yourself. Who knows that someone better than your ex is just around the corner. It’s no easy feat but sooner or later, you’ll get better and happier.

Late Post: End of Days...

From: weheartit.com

What is love and commitment anyway? Two simple words but when put together, it bring a lot of meaning to someone else’s lives. All of us went through the different phases of relationship. When we were young we are blinded by the thought of love: Roses, letters, romantic dates, looks and sappiness. As we grow older, our ideas and ways on love changes. Some may be for better or some for worse. I must admit I got a fair share of heartbreaks, happiness, anger, madness and some crazy episodes on taking the journey in love and in search of “the One”.

For more than a few months now, I ended up my six-year relationship. A lot of people were surprised especially on my ex’s side since they were expecting we will end up together. I expected that too, for a long time. I’ve been waiting for a long time. Sometimes, I even asked my ex what is our plans and directions in life, he couldn’t answer me. All he can say is I’m too young and he’s not ready. At the back of my mind, how young is a 27 years old girl and why the guy is not yet ready when he’s already hitting early 30’s. A lot of people would think this is just an episode of serious soul searching. Trust me, I’ve already done that plenty of times, it even came to a point that I went outside the country to find myself lost in translation of our so-called relationship. Sometimes I feel like I am single and sometime I feel like I’m in a relationship, 50-50. There are times I need someone when my moodiness kicks in and yet I have no one to turn to. Sometimes I don’t feel that special. I feel I was never a top priority above all other things. Sometimes I cry in the dark hoping everything will be OK and I would be able to bounce back, cheering myself that we will take the further step in due time. But deep inside, I am not OK. Subconsciously I am already looking for a great diversion in my life. My ever trusted journal would tell you, how frustrated and sad I am for the last 10 months. My journal is my lists of all the accounts in my life and ideas about my current feelings. I know that journal signifies what I am feeling for the last 10 months. I am not happy like what I am trying to portray to everyone. I am trying to have fun and don’t seem to mind that I go out without him, but deep inside, it hurts a lot and that he doesn’t even care to know my dearest and closest friends. I know I am not perfect, I do have weird quirks and have my own set of moods but I am trying to put up a fight in our relationship. I’ve been trying to ask him for the longest time and we even went through a series of arguments because of commitment and plans. Sometimes, guys think that girls are materialistic and demanding but there are just few things that are very important to us: time, love, commitment, future plans, assurance / security and simple effort. For me love and commitment alone would be important since it signifies the rest. You cannot commit to a person if you are not secured and assured. You will love the person more if there are simple efforts put up in the relationship. I’ve been trying to hold on since our last break up. Four years ago, we broke up for a reason that he found someone else aside from me and yet blindingly, I still accepted him and love him like the first years we were together. But those memories bore a deep wound inside of me. Our relationship was like a broken glass and for many years I’ve been trying to hold on to those broken pieces of glass. Even if it cuts through me and it left me wounded, I was still trying to hold on to it. I was trying to salvage our broken glass and in the end, it hurt me more and left me bleeding for years.

I know the experience in that six year period was not that easy and to be honest, it was not that easy to let go. Thinking about the pain, the happy times, memories, the sadness, tears, promises, words, disagreements, frustrations and anger, it can still make me cry. Nobody says breaking up is easy. Even if you were the one initiating the whole thing, it was too complicated. I know some would say that what I’ve been through is a five year itch, but heck, we even managed to go through six years and yet our relationship did not survive. I know it takes two to tango, we did have our own set of mistakes and I wouldn’t hide the fact that I was already in a rebellious mood six months before I ended up our relationship. I was too confused and lost. Confused, because I know I have reached the crossroad in my quarter life crisis and it doesn’t help that I am lost in the direction of our relationship. There was no assurance and security. For years I’ve been waiting, even the simplest statement such as, “I will take care of you”. I already accepted the fact before that he was not the romantic type and he possesses the attitude of being insensitive and stubborn. One of my friend even commented that our love story is just like “One More Chance” and I utterly disagree. In the movie Popoy has future plans with Basha, it was Basha who called it quits because she was already suffocated by Popoy’s controlling ways. In our own set of story, he does not have any plans for us and I already changed due to deep hurt and frustration. I am just a human, not a superwoman. In the long run I managed to put up with everything that’s on the line, sometimes I even felt I could even sell my soul just to make this relationship grow. Everything will still come to an end because relationships should not be a one-way street, but a two-way street. I know I put everything on stake on this relationship and there was no easy way out... But I need to make a heart-wrenching decision: let go and move on. This is the only way I can only figure out myself and stay sane for the rest of my life. I am neither a robot nor a superhero, at the end of the day; I am a simple girl with simple wants and needs. That simple wants and needs in a relationship is deeper commitment. Times change and things change... so am I.

Thankful

It's been two months since my last post. Nothing happened much but I am just thankful on the blessings that coming in our way. I'll just post my late messages here since I am quite busy nowadays.

Bakit ganun, once I logged in at Blogger I always forgot the thoughts I want to share. Anyway... next time nalang yung iba ulit. I'll check my notes on this one. I forgot my handy notebook. Then someone special gave me a black Schutzen Notebook but I never fill out the pages... I am still thinking what to do on that notebook. I want it to be a very special notebook. I am reserving it either for our travel tales or just a random thoughts about us. I'll be back. I'm still need to gather ideas muna.

The Baliw Playlist

From: muscleprodigy.com

I had to laugh at myself for my crazy playlist since the start of 2011… I must admit that one of my favorite activities aside from reading and travelling is listening to music. I have a massive variety of favorite playlist since high school up to present. I must admit that over the time, my taste and likes in music and genre had already shifted from the boybands to alternative bands and mellow to RNB. My dad once gave me an Ipod Nano during my 24th birthday because he knew how much I love listening to music. But the 4GB storage could not fit all my favorite music and it keeps growing. Thank God that last year I won a 1TB HDD storage during our company Christmas party to cater my kaadikan in my music playlist and store lots of album collection. While I was sorting out and backing up my files in my laptop, I get to see my music folders sorted out based on my mood for the last 6 months.

For the month of January to March here is my favorite playlist that played more than a hundred times:

Yiruma First Love Album - by the Korean pianist Yiruma. This was recommended to me by my good friend/officemate Manong Raf. Super romantic and pang-chillax mood. Para din sa mga gusto ma-inlove ulit or para din sa mga stressed out na gusto ng konting peace sa buhay. Kahit na badtrip ako mismong Valentines Day keri ko pa naman sya pakinggan noon.

My Emotera Playlist collection… What's inside? Super laughtrip… di halatang badtrip nung January, February at konting inis pa nung March… :P

- My Happy Ending by Avril Lavigne
- Fuck You by Lily Allen
- When Love and Hate Collide by Def Lepard
- Thinking of You by Katy Perry
- I don't Wanna be your Friend by Nina
- Almost Over You by Sheena Easton
- Someday by Nina
- Could've Been by Tiffany
- Grenade by Bruno Mars
- What the Hell by Avril Lavigne
- Fuck You by Cee Lo
- The Story of Us by Taylor Swift
- What I did for Love by Lea Michelle, a.k.a. Rachel Berry
- Waiting for the End by Linkin Park
- If We Ever Meet Again by Timberland feat. Katy Perry (hindi ko naman masyadong like nito si Katy Perry???)
- Somebody Kill Me by Adam Sandler (taken from Wedding Singer OST) - well, I'm not suicidal but I just want to get a good laugh while listening to Adam Sandler rants on the song. Ramdam mo emotions nya eh :D
- I Don't Want to Fall by Juris

Promise I looked so pathetic in those months… But well, there are no mistakes only life lessons… according to…. :)

Come April, May and June my favorite playlist shifted. For the first time in 3 months after 2011, I learned to smile and face all things that were source of my problems and misery. I had to admit my playlist are quite happy and hopeful. And who would have thought it would help me in creating a new chapter in my life? :)

My feel good playlist:

- Viva La Vida by Coldplay
- Marry You by Bruno Mars
- I do by Colbie Calliat (the song she sang during the after party of Prince William and Kate Middleton's wedding :))
- Falling for you by Colbie Calliat
- Collide by Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow
- Collide by Howie Day (at hindi rin ako mahilig sa song na may "collide" na titles?)
- Let's Just Fall in Love again by Jason Castro
- Marry Me by Train
- Everything by Michael Buble
- Summer Rain by Matthew Morrison
- I'm Gonna Be Around by Michael Learns to Rock
- With Me by Sum 41 (this always reminds me of Chuck Bass and Blair Waldorf's limo scene during the end of Gossip Girl season 1 episode 7! Tanda ko talaga! Hahaha)
- You Got Me by Colbie Calliat (at hindi ko naman masyado na rin like si Colbie? )
- Starlight by Muse
- Fireworks by Katy Perry
- Born this Way by Lady Gaga
- On the Floor by J Lo (wala sa sobrang upbeat nya super like ko)


So there goes my baliw playlist… :P

Broken Glass

From: http://www.myemospace.com

This is one of the life-changing decisions I made in my life… Pardon me for my late post.



I know in myself that I am independent. But there were times I feel lost and confused. Lost because I feel like I don't have someone in my life who will take good care of me, that it took me a while to find which direction in life I am heading and confused because I really didn't know what to do with my life if I'm going to end my relationship.

From: deviantarttattoosgirls.blogspot.com

I must admit after the break up it left me into broken pieces… but it wasn't as painful like what I felt last January and February 2011. I know earlier this year that things have fell apart and changed but I am too afraid to admit that we cannot fix things the way they should be. And I am living in denial that some issues and problems we encountered last year cannot be resolved in just a few days or months. I know for the past 7 months I've been trying to hold on to broken shards of glass which is the representation of our fragile relationship. No matter how much I tried to fix and glue the pieces, the glass won't come back in its true form and those broken pieces I tried to patch left me wounded as ever. It hurts to see someone you used to loved cry at the very thought of ending things together. But it will be much worse if I still try to hold on knowing the truth that there would be no "us" in the future. I got so scared when he admitted to me that as of this moment there are no plans and goals for us. Only excuses and false hopes just to ward off the fear of losing our relationship… It hurts because the love you nurtured for years has fallen apart. It hurts because the promises and dreams you built were just castles in the sand. It hurts because the words he hurled at me during our endless arguments left me questioning our relationship and its value. It hurts because no matter how much I tried to see the light of things for us, I know that I am just delaying my burdens to ease the pain. Those delays did not help me and it just carry on for so many months that reached into my saturation and breaking point.

I am sad but relieved. Sad because I know there would be a special place for him in my heart which contains our glorious memories together. In those 6 years we've been together we also built friendship and connections. But I need to make a heart-wrenching decision. Decision that would help me move forward and start another chapter of my life. I feel relieved, because I know that I did the right decision which is to find my true happiness. Start my life with new hopes and promises. Dreams that is not built in sand castles but on sturdy rock which is a foundation for the better future. As I closed this chapter in my life, I want to start my life in a dreams that became reality and embrace the future with a smile and forgot the tears that fell from my eyes saying goodbye.

Friendster is Closing Down.... or should I say Upgrading..

How do I react when I heard the news that Friendster is closing their site? Well, to be honest I was a little bit lonely since it was the first social networking site I joined in. I remembered that I joined Friendster around February 2004, just after finishing my college degree. I didn't even know my own personal reason why I created an account, maybe during that time nakikiuso ako at nagpapaka-feeling teenager :P. But on a serious note, Friendster helped me locate my long-lost friends and relatives, keep in touch with my closest friends, talk to my students and found out how my ex-bf cheated on me (hahaha, nagpaka-hacker?!)... in a way Friendster strenghtened my relationship with friends and family, except for ex-bf. hahaha. (Uy move on na!)

Even though Facebook has overtaken Friendster because of its cool features, simplicity and keeping well-connected with friends and relatives, I still maintain an account in Friendster and one of the reasons is because I love reading my friends' testimonials about me. I used to remember that me and my friends liked to exchange testimonials and quotes with each other because it was fun leaking secrets and describing each other. Yung iba nga bago ko bigyan ng testimonial, pinag isipan ko talaga ng matagal bago ko isulat yung mga best traits nila. Pero minsan di ko pa rin maiwasan na hindi sila ilaglag or ibuking. Hahaha.

So since FS is going to erase old testimonials and photos, I keep some of memorable testimonials from my friends, classmates and students gave to me. And to be honest it was fun reminiscing them :)

Here are some of my favorite testimonials:
From KRL:

Last night a friend forwarded a text message to me, It was a simple heart
warming message my friends are my medicine when I'm in pain, my letter when I'm
far, my smile when I'm sad, my hanky when I cry, and my life when I die.. Thanks
for being one... C_____ has been one great friend. She knows why, I don't need
to explain to the world why. You should find out for yourself what I am talking
about. She is a tough shoulder you can lean on. Open minded and willing to
compromise, you can share many things with her without apprehensions, she'll
tell you things you wouldn't expect she'll tell (or probably things you expected
but really don't want to hear), but as they say, true friends are the ones who
will tell you the things you need to know no matter how hurtful it may sound. As
I am struggling, I learned that she can be your heart when you are numb, she'll
lend you her ears to listen, she is a clown to make you smile. Thank you for
being a great friend

From my Grad School classmate AS:

This is ___: Beautiful, sexy, Intelligent, eloquent, always likes to share herideas. Wide-reader kasi.Serve her seafoods, she'll be delighted. You can invite her to your province, isama nyo na rin ako hah. Sarap maging kaibigan si C.
Good luck, C. Sana marating mo lahat ng nais mong marating. God bless you.
always remember: "We love you"

From my college friend MJM:

Hello 'C',.. whats up? Hows life any way? hehe,.. Well all i know about heris... She's nice, pretty and very intelligent person. and now she's taking her
masteral and i wish you goodluck C i know you can make it, ikaw pa',....
hehe,...Anyways wherever you are right know i wish you goodluck, goodhealth and
goodlove',... Ok see you around sometime friend,... U

From my Eng'g student EDR:

Hi miss... remember me??? ahehehe! wala lang nakita ko lang un pic mo and bigla kita namis...well guyz! naging prof ko to sa AMA binan Da' Best to magturo bukod sa cute siya kaya masarap makinig eh hanep talaga magturo... tipopng kahit tulog ka mapapaginipan mo un tinuro niya... harharhar! isa to sa mga nagutuhang prof
ko sa AMA when i was in first year.. Una palang 2 thumbs up na ko dito and also
magaling din xa makisama with her students.. napaka down to earth nitong taong
to at feeling ko laging masya ang mundo niya know y guyz?? kasi walang araw na
di nakangiti yan! SMILING FACE ika nga! hehehe! Miss, miss na namin keo...pede
talaga keong tandem ni miss mich pareho kayong 'da best! let me give you a
salute! "YOU'RE THE BEST!" miss... Ingat po lage! and godbless you always for
being a nice and wonderful person...See yah!

From my HS friend LP:

Sexy talaga nating tatlo, lalo na kapag nakatalikod!!! Hehehe!! Sama ka ulit?
Hahaha!!! Miss kna nila mamy, kaw daw c bestfriend!!! hahaha!! Wla daw cla radyo
dun!

hmmm. syempre sweet yan,kta nman sa name eh.sister ko yan since
grde 1,nung nagaway kmi.hehehe.friendly,maingay kya lgi kming npapaglitan,mkulit
at higit sa lahat...pareho kmi lagi ng crush.. haaay buti nlang d p kmi
nagkakapreho ng bf...iyakin yan lalo na pagdting sa ....secret.. mdling
istorbohin at hgilpin kc alm n alm k hide out nyan! matalino pero hindi
pasensyosa!! promise ... parang wild animal pag nagalit.. kaya boys wag nyong
gagalitin yan.. mkamandag yan!!! mis yah!!

From my another HS friend IL:

helooo! photos u posted love it! ur right wlang panget n picture evrything willbe posted kelan kya next trip hope to fly with the two of u again. Im glad u shared ur birthday with us. Luv u! Muah

we jz had a bonding yesterday yet miss q n kyo take care alwyez i am really thankful to have u as my friends. Ooops! gling ah! pics are posted agad. Love u! Muah!

From my office friend MR:

I really miss this girl ! C is a jolly type of person kaya nga I luv to hangout
with her, she's a very nice person inside and out, physically she's beautiful
(as in Korean beauty) and sexy (khit n malakas kumain hehehe), she has a strong
personality that can influence anybody, she's independent and smart, she knows
how to make u laugh when u'r sad, she's a good listener and a good adviser. What
I lyk bout this girls is that she's a true friend and thoughtful, kya lhat ng
friend niya luv din cya, keep it up C! Miss u so much =)

hi C! Tnx 4 inviting me last sunday! I really luvd ur "Pacham Pasta" ur a better cook dan me im juz following ur footsteps hehehe... cge po s uulitin =)

i really love this girl coz she's full of enery pag ksama mo sya d kau mwwlan ng pag-uusapan & she's also supportive as a friend, m so hapi 4 what she is now coz she deserve it =) Luv u C!

bout C, shes cute, sexy & smart inggit me kc khit lakas kumain d nataba. Shes really fun to be with, gud listener at mhilig s food juz lyk me, hehe kya mgksundo kmi nyan e. Mrming kming gus2ng gwin ng mgksama gaya ng plano nming mgMasteral,
mgShopping, kumain s Japanese Restaurant, mgBar etc so far wla p n22pad hehe but its ok kc continuous nman bonding nmin s KFC. Dmi kong mmimiss d2 f ever n
mgkhiwalay kmi someday. TC!

From my Eng'g student MJ:

ah...cnu to...?! c mam c...naku ang super duper kulit nameng prof date sa
ama...hai...miss na kita...hehe well to tell you honestly guyz...c mam c...super
duper bait nito as in...ang sarap kasama...kahit na student niya lang
kame...she's like an older sister to me...sobrang sweet...ang sobrang
cute...tignan nio nalang xa...hehe..well ang galing nito sa computer...wahahaha....tsaka ang taas magbigay ng grade nung nasa ama pa xa...magbestfriend nga sila ni mam mitch...ang galing magbigay ng advices at sobrang easy-to-go with...and fun to be with... well as i have read...matakaw ka pla...hindi kasi halata...hehehe...ang slim ng body mo unlike me...tumataba na talaga...hehehe... mam...secret lang natin ung mga sinabi ko sayo ha...as in lahat...hehehe...miss yah...love you.. tsaka nga pala mam...thanks po talaga salahat...nxt tym ung continuation nito…

From my dear college friend KC:

c C.. sya ang genius ng tropa nmin! cpag nyan mag-aral nung college kme (til now nman eh).. leader kng leader! sweet, dependable, bait (hirap nga nyan
impluwensyahan minsan eh!).. ang lakas nga lng ng boses khit san, prang lagi
kyong magkalayo magkausap! pro yan c C mdali po yang msaktan & minsan
madadala ka tlaga sa knya pg umiiyak.. kc mpagmahal yan c C eh, she's willing to
offer everything she can s mga taong luv nya (ay with few exemptions pla..) kya
daming friends din yang tropa kong yan eh! tnx 4d friendship! luv u po cheepy!!!
=)

From my CS student RC:

well wala me talaga masabi pag dating sa kanya! she is one of my favorite
instructor promise!!!!! cguro kung magkakaroon man ako ng girl frend gusto ko
yung tulad nya, she is the type of person na for keeps talaga!!! alam nyo kung
bakit? mabait na super cute pa! weakness ko mga chinita!!! ahihihi!!! well
seriously masarap ka kwentuhan cool sya sobra, nahihiya na nga ako minsan
graduate na kasi sya ako di pa hehehehe!!!! pero ok lang kung grumaduate ako
agad malamang di ko na sya nakilala, at isa pa wag nyu galitin mataray yan,
minsan na late ako sa quiz di na inulit ung number 1, pero ok lang lesson sa
akin yun hehehe! so yung mga nag babalak na mag pa late, mag dalawang isip na
kayu, baka matapos ang karir nyu hehehe!!!, well all i can say is!!! more power
stay cool and stay as cute as you are. Chow!!!!

From my college classmate WB:

Hey C-mint! She can be compared to a nerd's brain in a sexy, foxy lady. Sobrangsmart at lumalaban when her ideas and principles are correct. Hope to see you
soon C! I hope hindi ka kinakatakutan sa AMA, hehehe. LOL. Cheers to us all!

Hi Miss C-mint, Sya na ngayon ang pumalit na terror pagdating sa mga
Thesis defense. At sya na rin ang bagong Terror ng AMA. joke. hehehe. This girl
is really witty, we use to have a n EDUCATIONAL ARGUMENT about things that can both enlighten our knowledge about certain things. I know that she will continue
to be the most competitive person and her perseverance can let her go places in
the Industry. Hoope to see you soon, 50 cent C-mint.

From a college professor:

C's one of the coolest girl I have ever met. I have been seeing a lot of C before, but that was when she was still a student. Yup, payat na siya before
until now. He He He. Sabi niya, suwerte daw sila because there was never a
chance na naging panelist nila ako. He He He. Threatening ba ako? Magaling kasi
silang pumili ng room. I get to work with her early this school year, she's with
Rona who was my batchmate. Masaya kasama si C. I can say that she's to be
considered as one of the boys. Game yan, lalo na sa biruan. That's what I admire
about this girl, kahit medyo suplada eh, she can blend in perfectly. Looks can
be deceiving, she's really slim but her appetite's really good. Di ba Mitch?
Lagi kayong may date sa Wendy's? He He He. Too bad I left the organization, di
ko na siya makukulit more often. But one thing is good, we remain friends. Sana
makatikim ulit ako ng vegerroni (anu nga ulit ang tawag nina sir parreo dun? he
he he) mo. Good luck sa career C!

From my HS classmate and ka-batch JD:

HEy guyz check this out!!!! who's this girl na sobrang kalog pero san ka astig talino??how about this!!! who's this girl who have a cute eyes na kung tumawa e
wala ka nang makita sa mata nya...hmmp lam nyo na? well e2 pa..Closer Closer..
Who's this girl na naging best in academic namin nung HS ...RAPHAELIAN ROCKZ...
ALAM NYO NA!! well kung di nyo talga kilala.. PWES problema nyo na yun.. dami ko ng binigay na clue.. grabe na…

From my HS classmate RC (who also passed away na :():

Si C lagi syang naka- smile,mapagbigay sya ung laging ng hingian ng face powder at baby cologne, hiraman din yan ng suklay at mirror. Magdala daw ba kc ng
malaking cologne!!!hehehe She's our top one ang talino! Goodluck sa
lovelife,Always keep in touch ha!!!

From my HS classmate and barkada JP:

Si C na ata ang pinakamakulit na taong nakilala ko sa balat ng lupa!!! She's kind and cheerful and so daldal. Siya rin ang intsik na magaling mag- english at tagalog. C's a great friend and no one would ever says she's not. I think
sooner, she'll be the mastermind of crazy websites and viruses in the world
(hehehe!!!). Nway, goodluck and wag ka muna mag-aasawa ha!!! lovelots: Dark
Angel (Dangerous but charming!)

From my Elementary classmate and kalaro HMP:

si C?! hay naku parang ilang dekada na rin kame hindi nagkikita nitu..
schoolmate ko cya since elementary and naalala ko pa nga na 10/20 queen 'tong
babaeng 'to at gusto nga atang ka-reerin lahat ng laro (jackstones, jump rope,
etc.) parang punong-puno cya ng energy! hehe.. nakakamiss yung mga time na un
noh? nweis, sana magreunion tayung lahat para masaya and always keep in touch.
good luck and blessed be dear friend! muah :)

From my Elementary and HS classmate and friend CP:

Si C...classmates kami nyan since grade 3 until high school at isa lang ang masasabi ko,hanggang ngayon siya pa rin ang CS na classmate at kaibigan ko.di pa
rin siya nagbabago hanggang ngayon.very proud nga ako sa kanya kasi graduate na
siya ngayon so guys,kailangan e galingan nyo ang pagdiskarte sa kanya kasi may
maipagmamalaki na siya sa lahat ngayon.!!!alam mo nung nabasa ko yung testi mo
sa kin,naalala ko lahat ng mga memories natin noon.yung mga nilalaro natin every
recess time,after class,etc.nakalimutan mo yung larong moro-moro na kasama ang
boys.grabe nagflashback lahat sa kin yun.salamat sa lahat ng memories na yun.i
will cherish it forever.basta goodluck sa career mo ngayon, sa lovelife,tsaka
regards sa family mo.alam ko,napakarami mong kaibigan ngayon di lang sa
friendster kundi sa real world.napakafriendly mo tsaka lagi kang naka-smile

From my Elementary classmate and best friend YP:

my childhood days wouldn't be complete, sweet and memorable without C..grade 1 to grade 6 kasama ko to..sa service,sa fieldtrip,sa lahat ng kainan sa smcl,sa lahat..she has always been there to inspire me,cheer me up,make me laugh,teach me lessons in life,listen to my nonsense speeches..hindi namin malilimutan ang isa't isa..kahit si leo. hehe. those were the days: how we loved leo and sweet valley, how we enjoyed writing letters to each other, how we loved talking over the phone and just be in each other's company. at hanga ako rito, matapang to.
love you, C!

From my previous officemate and friend CB:

namimiss ko na tong babaeng to eh.!!! C girl.. dami na nagbago noh.. dami ko namimiss na gngwa natin.. mga kalokohan, kulitan.. haay ... thanks pla ha kht dna tyo lagi mgksama jn pa rin kyo lgi for me.. miss ko tlga bonding natin!!! loves you

From my grad school classmate WLC:

bout C, she's always have a word "hayaan mo sila.. wala akong pakialam" She is the CMMI girl of the troop. She's a good friend who you can depend on. Minsan topakin din. LAging busy with her work. She is one of the resource person in the troop. Always dress to kill tuwing saturday dahil laging me date. She'sexy and cute (libre moko ha?!..todo nato!)hehehe.. Thanks for everything C!

From my grad school classmate GA:

hay naku knowing her..masipag mag-research sa klase..nakikipag unahan sumagot kay Mhai sa klase..expression nito ay "ADIK" ewan ko ba sa batang ito..may katarayan din mana sa akin..hehehe..but enjoy akong kasama c C together with the chix joy group..sya nga ang nagbansag ng group namin...ingats lagi c..luv u

From my previous officemate and friend JP:

a.k.a COOKIE SUMUBO.. we've been friends for almost 2years.. i guess?!we were skulm8s way back in college but we never bcame close coz we had our own circle of friends. Thanks to.. wWow0WOMwoWOM!!! . at ngkakilala kmi ni cookie. Pg petiks mode s ofc, we alwayz hang out sa megamall, specifically!? c bestfriend CINDERELLA. We're both kikay but totally different in style and color combination. Favorite nya ang kulay PINK (db halata sa mga gamit nya!?). She loves to read that's why prti kming dmdaan ng booksale. ANd the bestpart of our friendship is... FOOD! every 2 hours, g2m nnmn.. no wonder, lhat ng nppsama smn e tumataba, namely... BOINK BOINK cherry! haha. Nbbansagan 2loy kming PG d2 s ofc, tga P&G.com dw kmi.I forgot to send this testi on the day of ur bday, sorry nlate. Belated Happy Birthday.. more con-cons to come, ay mali..birthdays pla! wink! Stay as PINK as you are ;) take care alwayz and dnt 4get to thank God for all the continuous blessings u receiving.

From my CS student AMC:

ammm...what can i say about this person...:) etong teacher kong to napakabait.///..:) magalng magturo tapos ang cute ng boses...hehehe...minsan tampuhin katulad ngayon...hehehe pero sweet to si maam...mapagkakatiwalaan pantay lang ang tingin niya sa teachers at students...hindi niya gusto bumabagsak ang mga students....hindi katulad ng iba na gusto talga bumagsak mga studyante nila...hehehe si maam ang secon ate ko sa school...kamukha siya ng ate ko...hehehe dati lagi kaming sabay umuwi...hehehe nanglilibre ng pamasahe...kakahiya nga eh....:) si maam sexy din, magandsa, matalino, cute, sweet, malambing, makulit, kalog, masarap kabiruan, masarap maging teacher, at napakabait....thats all folks...:)

From my Eng'g student NF:

Ms. S sobrang kulit niyn siya yung prof na sobarang lapit sa mga student niya.. well sa lahat cguro ng prof sa AMA cguro xa n yung pinaka magaling mkisama... magaling na mg2ro..mabait pa! san ka pa! hehehehehe mis na nmin 2 sobra!!!!!! sana bumalik na xa sa AMA binan ...;) hoping na mging prof uli namin xa..haaaaaaay.......sobarng nkakamis yung gni2ng prof....sna lahat ng prof gya ni2...pero sa tingin q "ur one of a kind!" mhirap ng humanap ng gni2ng prof.....swerte yung magiging kbiyak ng buhay ni2...n_n...hayyyyyyyyyyyyy...we miss you mam C.... bye!bye! inagtzzz po mplagi!

From my childhood friend JJL:

Ang cute mo pa rin hanggang ngayon. I remember when we're kids at El Dom's apartments every morning may sumpong ka. And you had so many toys. My brother and you always play. Every December we always have party with different games. You, the Bartolazo kids, Camela, R-Jay, and all the kids there in that neighborhood napakasaya. It seems yesterday lang. Take care and May God bless you and all your love ones. Ikamusta mo ulit ako sa family mo at kina Camela and R-Jay. Keep in touch!!!!! "L.Boogie"

Late Post on my Personal Reflections

From: vividlife.me

I am lazy in writing and posting notes in my secret blog. Sometimes when ideas and thoughts came to me, I always write them in MS Office OneNote or on my ever trusted journals. I have at least three journals, one is a small notebook stashed in my office drawer, the other two is kept in my closet in my apartment and in our house in Laguna. Sometimes, when I am reflecting, I just write anything that came on my mind, then if I am dead serious, I post them on my secret blog. Recently, I was checking my notes in MS Office OneNote when I came across my soooo late post on regarding on some 27 hard facts about myself which should be posted after my birthday last January. But since I got busy and got winded up on some personal matters during the last few months, I just forgot everything and let it sit on my files for a long time.

Here is my entry which should be posted last February 03, 2011.

My 27 years of knowing myself

1. I am daddy's little girl. My dad played an important role in my growing up years and I am always thankful on my dad.

2. I would really like going back to school as a part-time professor or trainor after finishing my graduate studies (ang tagal nang pending nito!)

3. I love clothes and shopping. I hate to admit that shopping is my therapeutic ways on cheering myself.

4. I don't mind being alone anymore. I can eat at restaurants alone, go to church and go to places I want to (like a mall)

5. I know I am a stronger person than before and I can conquer my fears. One step at a time.

6. I discovered I have a daredevil side in me. This year alone I tried the longest zipline in Bukidnon and rode Battlestar Galactica while in Universal Studios Singapore :)

7. I love shoes… and just like shopping, I really hate to admit that when I like a pair of shoes, it was like heaven purchasing them

8. I want to become a psychologist before. But now, I ventured into the wonderful world of Information Technology. Never regret pursuing my current career. :P

9. I am a hopeless romantic. I get kilig while watching or reading love stories or romantic comedies

10. I love books and it is one my biggest hobby: Buying and collecting books.

11. I hate being ignored or rejected

12. I always dream of going to Europe :)

13. I have proven to myself that I am capable of doing things by myself and not depending on others

14. I have playful and funny side but mostly I can be serious when it comes to serious matters

15. My mom used to tell me that I think ahead of my age. Maybe because I went to school early and most of my friends are older than me.

16. My favorite sanctuary is quaint little chapels. It helps me think and see myself in perspective

17. I don't know how to swim and got a near death experience while in Puerto Galera, but I still love to hang out at beaches :). The sound of the sea waves calm me.

18. I was 26 years old when the peak of my crossroads started

19. Music is part of my life. I can't work or think without any music playing in the background

20. I always dream of having a vacation house in our province. Another reason for me to visit my favorite place every year or if time permits

21. I hate being out of my comfort zone. I believe this also applies to my love life. That is one of the reason why most of my relationships are long-term and even if there are some serious issues or matters, I still try my best to fix it even if my closest friends advises me to run to the other side :P

22. I always had a hard time coping up with changes. Especially those situations that are unexpected and painful

23. I can be patient for those people I cared for but once provoked I do have one big, bad temper

24. I hate riding in boats especially cute little boats on choppy seas :P

25. I love wholeheartedly. And when I love someone, I give everything I can offer. This applies to friends and loved ones.

26. Sometimes on my crazy days, I dream of becoming flight stewardess, psychologist, ambassador, news correspondent, chef in Lifestyle Network (like Giada de Laurentiis) and travel journalist :)

27. I am self centered and vain. In short, kikay at maarte :P. But even though I am maarte and kikay, I can blend in perfectly in the crowd. (sige defend pa ang sarili)

From: theentrepreneurincebu.com

Changes...

From: kathymccreedy.typepad.com

From: southernblissdesigns.com

Time flies when you're having fun. Haven't been able to write on my secret blog. Been busy on doing a lot of stuff lately and there are so many changes around me. They always say that "Change is constant and inevitable". I must agree, that changes cannot be controlled or stopped. It just happens. It's best to accept the changes and make those changes beneficial to you. I must admit I am the type of person who doesn't like constant changes. It would take me a long time to recover or adjust. Whether this pertains to person or things, I always have a hard time letting go or adjusting. I guess some situations in life makes you tougher and happier. So I guess changes is just an opportunity for us to see things more clearly, better and make most out of it :)

For the past few months there are so many things that changed:

1. My original office barkada/group is disbanded. Most of them already transferred to a new company, kinda sad to think but I know its for the best. I still thank God since He never left me alone. I found new office friends, who keep me smiling and happy everyday :)

2. There are so many happenings in the office since January 2011, good and bad news, I know we will get by.

3. For the past 5 years I've been working, this is just the first time that my after-office activities are in full-swing. I have weekly schedule of jogging and badminton sessions with my officemates and friends. Sometimes we even get out and have fun doing lots of stuff outside the office. I am really enjoying :)

4. There may be people who left you and get out of your life but there are always new found friends. New found friends is one blessing in my life right now :)

5. I realized that I am stronger than before. I know I still cry at my sad moments, but I know in myself I can fight back and be happier in life.

6. It is beneficial to pray and reflect. Prayers can provide hope and reflections help you to become optimistic.

7. I realized its time to try things that I am afraid to face. That started when I rode roller coaster in SG and tried the longest zipline in Bukidnon. It feels good to conquer fear. I am looking for more adventure trips in the future

8. I didn't know the reason why my friend does ignore me. Can't seem to find reason why, but I just let it pass. After all, real friends are always there for you and new friends kept me sane

9. Live and let go. If it doesn't make you happy, let go. Be happy on the other blessings you receive

10. Lives around me changed. I had friends who recently got engaged, married and had a baby. Me, I am still single as ever and happy fullfilling all my travel plans ;)

My Solo Singapore Trip

Last February 25-28, 2011, I went to Singapore alone. It wasn't my plan to go there alone, but some unexpected, crazy and unfair situation came in why I became a loner on my first out of the country trip. Anyways, things happen for a reason and I think going solo there helped me see myself clear and I did have a best and unforgettable days of my life. :) I never regret pursuing the trip alone. 5 Minutes before Arriving at Singapore

Good thing I had a cousin in Singapore who offered me a place to stay and some friends who toured me around the city. I did have a blast going there and enjoyed my four days stay. I am also thankful to have bunch of friends here in Manila who helped and encouraged me to pursue this Singapore trip. They even provided me some useful tips and itineraries so that I would make most of my time in Singapore. Once the plane landed in Singapore, I was literally in tears of joy. Crying and smiling at the same time because I could still remember what my parents told me a week before my scheduled of departure

"Anak, kaya mo yan and take care. I know you can manage going solo on your first trip outside the country"

and two friends of mine KC, PU and KRL posted messages on my Facebook wall, wishing me goodluck on my trip.

Here are the highlights of my Singapore trip:

Day 1 - met up my officemate and friend, MR who is now based in Singapore after getting married last December 2010. I stayed at their place and did have a lot of catching up with. I really missed MR and our "uwian talks" while she's still in our current office. It feels good to reconnect with her. There are so many things that happened since she left our office and it was fun reminiscing the good old days of our office barkadahan. After our rest and talk, we did the prawning on their nearby park in Pasir Ris. Our first goal was at least catch 2 prawns since prawning is quite hard on beginners. I think I was lucky that day, since we caught 4 prawns in an hour. Promise, nakakaadik gawin! Haha. The four prawns we caught Fresh prawns for fishing Pasir Ris National Park Day 2 - went to Universal Studios with my cousin. This is one great experience to us! Me and my cousin looked like excited kids queuing up for the lines and laughing like there's no tomorrow. We were so ecstatic lining up to do some photo ops with Universal Studios famous cartoon characters. Super memorable day for me because I feel like a kid who doesn't have any problem back here in Manila and just having the time of my life. Some of the must try things in Universal Studios are: 1. The Revenge of the Mummy ride - I'm not a fan of roller coasters but this one is a thrilling ride. You need to go to Universal Studios to find it out :)

2. The Wild River at Jurassic Park - be ready to get wet for the unexpected water coming your rafts. It's no use buying a 2SGD coat to avoid getting wet, just make sure you have extra clothes

3. The Battlestar Galactica - this is one hell of a ride!!! I think this ride is for me! For those who are depressed and willing to do any risk just to forget about something, this for you! Promise, I thought I lost my heart and soul for a while.

4. Watch the Water World - you might want to check the showing schedule first but you shouldn't forget to watch this. Cool props, pyrotechnics and lots of water. Be sure to sit on dry zone area, if you don't want to get wet.

5. Watch Shrek 4D - this is one cool 4D experience! I love Donkey!

6. Watch shows on the Hollywood Boulevard - you might get to see cute waiters and waitresses singing and dancing. You might even catch up our very own Streetboys performing on the street :)

7. Watch the Monster Rock - get to see famous horror villains singing and dancing to popular tunes live :)

8. Enter Lights, Camera and Action booth where you get to see how directors did their special effects on movies. It was really cool show. 8. Shop at Universal Studios Store for some souvenirs and pasalubongs :)

Some additional pictures from Universal Studios Singapore: After our Universal Studios, I met up with my elementary classmate and bestfriend YP, who is now an architect in Singapore. She toured me around Esplanade, Suntec City mall, Marina Bay sands and treated me for a Makansutra dinner. Day 3 - continuation of my catching up with YP. I met her at Singapore Botanical Garden with some of her friends and toured one of the most beautiful orchid garden in Singapore. After our SG Botanical Garden tour, I met my cousin at Vivo city for lunch at Marche - a Swiss restaurant and went to Sentosa to try the Luge, Skyride and extreme Log Adventure in 3D. We also went to Siloso beach for a quick stroll and watched the famous "Songs of the Sea" which feature a cool water fountains, pyrotechnics and special effects that lasted for 25 minutes. It was one cool experience! After our Sentosa trip, I met up again YP for our next tour to Clarke Quay area. It is famous for its strings of expensive bars and restaurants. This is where you can find the Extreme Bungee activity which is featured on Amazing Race Asia last season. While waiting for YP, I was sitting alone on the river bank beside Central mall looking at the river cruises and doing my own silent moment. YP treated me the yummy 1SGD ice cream and we walked along the Clarke Quay talking. Day 4 - Last photo ops with my cousin strolling along the Esplanade area and Marina Bay Sands before going home. Singapore capitol is different during morning and night and I get to witness them both. After our stroll at Esplanade, we went to Chinatown to buy pasalubongs and ate lunch there. I tried Singapore's famous Hainanese Chicken rice and Black Peppered Crab. After our lunch we went to Orchard Road and walked for a while before going back to my cousin's house to get my things and went to Airport. At the airplane going home, I won Cebu Pacific's game for guessing the correct answer on their trivia game :)

What I love about Singapore:

1. Their efficient SMRT system. Tourists doesn't feel awkward navigating the city because of clear directions. Unlike here in the Phils.

2. People - most Singaporeans can understand English and quite approachable when you asked them for directions.

3. The country itself - Their country is beautiful and clean. No clutter is left on the street because of heavy fines and there are designated smoking areas. There are also national parks across the country.

4. The buildings - modern tall building boasts Singapore skylines. All multinational companies are also located in Singapore

5. Food - I love their foods! Quite expensive but you get what you paid for. Delicious and big servings

6. Security - I didn't mind going home late since it is safe to commute to SMRT or buses. And you don't fear of losing your belongings since there are lower crime rate in Singapore because of death penalty

7. Malls - Singapore is one of the best place to go shopping specifically made for shopaholics like me :)

8. Fashion - you can wear whatever clothes you want. You can wear short shorts or skirts without being harassed (unlike here in the Phils). And I get to see lot of cool get ups from teenagers riding the SMRT.

9. Universal Studios - It was one dream come true for me!

10. Their EZ Link pass - swipe card which you can use riding their SMRT or buses

11. Free Singapore maps on the airports, SMRT and malls. And touch screen maps across the malls

12. No AIRPORT TERMINAL fee upon departure! Lessons I learned while in Singapore 1. It is always good to keep in touch with friends. Just like me and YP, we just communicated through YM and FB through the years. It was 12 years since the last time we see each other. Reuniting with her feels good and elating.

2. Read and ask for directions. It is always good to research on the place you're going to so you know what to expect.

3. I realized that I can live and go alone without depending on others or somebody

4. I don't have any itineraries going to Singapore, I just list down the places and landmarks I want to visit then check them out on my free time.

5. Still figuring out how to go back to Singapore :)

Promise I will be back on this country!!! :)