Taken last February 16, 2013.
Showing posts with label love. Show all posts
Showing posts with label love. Show all posts
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Buhay Gobyerno.
I officially became part of the government when I started working way back in 2007. My participation was the usual remittance of 10-15% of my monthly salary which was forwarded to our government in different forms and in different agencies. It was the time when I came to know who BIR, SSS, Pag-ibig and Philhealth are. It was also in the same circumstance when I gradually accepted that they will STICK with me forever.
Since my starting salary
was quite low compared to my batch mates who were working in Manila, I did not
really complain on the monthly deductions. I did not really mind how much they
were deducting as long as I have enough money to spend whenever my friends and
I would dine out or have the usual get together. That was until I started to work
in Ateneo.
I was blessed to have a
faculty-ranked position when I applied in Ateneo in October 2008. It was a
position under one of the busiest or should I say the busiest office in Ateneo.
The salary was really beyond my needs, it even supported my ‘frequent wants'. However, that was also the same year when I started to become more aware of my hard-earned money.
I began to question, where does my money go? How come that they are deducting this much? I slowly began to imagine bundles of thousands coming from the monthly obligation of all workers, not to mention the taxes from big companies, multinational companies.
And it all stopped there.
Not until I became part of the work force of the government.
I was hired as Guidance Counselor of the Department of Education, Camarines Sur Division last November 21, 2012. I was assigned at Pamukid National High School, San Fernando, Camarines Sur instead of Pili National High School, my supposedly first work assignment. I have to wake-up at 5:30am everyday and be ready by 6:15am for my 30-40 minute travel. I have to admit that the daily transport is quite tedious on my part considering that my body is not used to long travels.
When I first learned about my appointment in DepEd, I immediately informed my relatives particularly my aunts who were also working in the government. They were both happy and apprehensive. Apprehensive because they know how the system in the government works: the 'usual procedure' and the existing 'protocol'. They basically gave me tips for survival.
Being me, I reported on my first day with excitement. I usually have this kind of disposition whenever there is something new in my routine. My first jeepney ride was quite a thrill, I didn't know where I should say 'para po', how much I should pay and worst, I don't know where Pamukid is in San Fernando. Good thing jeepneys have 'konduktor', they are for me a 'mobile tour guide'.
Finding Pamukid National High School is not that hard, you can easily see the big signage beside the road. However, you would still need to take a few steps before you reach the gates of the school. Our school houses around 990 students with 35 personnel, 29 teaching and 6 non-teaching personnel.
The moment I entered the campus, I felt awkward. Perhaps because I was overdressed that time. I was wearing my black slacks and a semi-formal top. I wanted to make a good impression to my future boss and I remembered that 'power dressing' is an important factor if you want to make an impression, a good one :) Nevertheless, I continued to dress in the same manner even until now, because if I don't, the students might mistaken me as their classmate.
The days turned to weeks and months. By February 21, I'd be celebrating my third month here in our institution. However, it feels like I've been working here for ages and with my short stay, I was able to note a few things that I should always keep in mind.
1. Our work schedule is from 7:30am until 4:30pm. However, based on my observation, in the morning, some people tend to stretch the 7:30am call time to 7:45am or worse until 8:00am. BUT during dismissal, everyone seems to be in a hurry. 4:30 is 4:30. No extensions if possible. Yes, working overtime is a mortal sin not unless there is a school occasion.
2. Not everyone is given a 'blessing'. If you receive one, better keep it to yourself.
3. Almost all teachers would complain about how low their salary is, to think that their daily rate is way higher than the regular daily rate. I came to understand the reason behind after I saw how impulsive they are whenever there are sales representative visiting our campus. If one teacher bought an item, they must buy as well. Talk about competition.
4. Noise pollution is not new in public schools. It's either you go with it or you just bear the noise that's cracking the walls of your office. Perhaps this is the reason of my frequent migraine attacks.
5. It's really rare for teachers to keep their mouth shut and it's quite impossible for them to speak in low voices except during meetings.
6. When you're preparing meals or snacks for a visitor, always include the total number of employees in your school. It's a habit I think and again, I think this is the reason why some schools have depleting MOOE fund.
7. Always know where you stand. Some practices in the government would really test you and your values. Just stick to your values because you can never go wrong if your principles are clear.
8. Know when to 'read between the lines'. Some people would use sarcasm either as a form of joke or to indirectly tell you how they feel towards you. Be sensitive. Know when to smile and know when to reason out. Timing is very important.
9. Find someone who shares the same work value as you do. This will really help a lot particularly in coping with your working environment.
These only comprises a portion of my mental notes. I will try to add more as I try to remember them.
Nevertheless, I am happy where I am now. The longer I stay here, the more that I am convinced that I am needed here. Working in the public sector is quite a challenge, not because of the task but because of the people around you. Perhaps, I'll allot a separate blog entry for the more inspiring story/stories.
I began to question, where does my money go? How come that they are deducting this much? I slowly began to imagine bundles of thousands coming from the monthly obligation of all workers, not to mention the taxes from big companies, multinational companies.
And it all stopped there.
Not until I became part of the work force of the government.
I was hired as Guidance Counselor of the Department of Education, Camarines Sur Division last November 21, 2012. I was assigned at Pamukid National High School, San Fernando, Camarines Sur instead of Pili National High School, my supposedly first work assignment. I have to wake-up at 5:30am everyday and be ready by 6:15am for my 30-40 minute travel. I have to admit that the daily transport is quite tedious on my part considering that my body is not used to long travels.
When I first learned about my appointment in DepEd, I immediately informed my relatives particularly my aunts who were also working in the government. They were both happy and apprehensive. Apprehensive because they know how the system in the government works: the 'usual procedure' and the existing 'protocol'. They basically gave me tips for survival.
Being me, I reported on my first day with excitement. I usually have this kind of disposition whenever there is something new in my routine. My first jeepney ride was quite a thrill, I didn't know where I should say 'para po', how much I should pay and worst, I don't know where Pamukid is in San Fernando. Good thing jeepneys have 'konduktor', they are for me a 'mobile tour guide'.
Finding Pamukid National High School is not that hard, you can easily see the big signage beside the road. However, you would still need to take a few steps before you reach the gates of the school. Our school houses around 990 students with 35 personnel, 29 teaching and 6 non-teaching personnel.
The moment I entered the campus, I felt awkward. Perhaps because I was overdressed that time. I was wearing my black slacks and a semi-formal top. I wanted to make a good impression to my future boss and I remembered that 'power dressing' is an important factor if you want to make an impression, a good one :) Nevertheless, I continued to dress in the same manner even until now, because if I don't, the students might mistaken me as their classmate.
The days turned to weeks and months. By February 21, I'd be celebrating my third month here in our institution. However, it feels like I've been working here for ages and with my short stay, I was able to note a few things that I should always keep in mind.
1. Our work schedule is from 7:30am until 4:30pm. However, based on my observation, in the morning, some people tend to stretch the 7:30am call time to 7:45am or worse until 8:00am. BUT during dismissal, everyone seems to be in a hurry. 4:30 is 4:30. No extensions if possible. Yes, working overtime is a mortal sin not unless there is a school occasion.
2. Not everyone is given a 'blessing'. If you receive one, better keep it to yourself.
3. Almost all teachers would complain about how low their salary is, to think that their daily rate is way higher than the regular daily rate. I came to understand the reason behind after I saw how impulsive they are whenever there are sales representative visiting our campus. If one teacher bought an item, they must buy as well. Talk about competition.
4. Noise pollution is not new in public schools. It's either you go with it or you just bear the noise that's cracking the walls of your office. Perhaps this is the reason of my frequent migraine attacks.
5. It's really rare for teachers to keep their mouth shut and it's quite impossible for them to speak in low voices except during meetings.
6. When you're preparing meals or snacks for a visitor, always include the total number of employees in your school. It's a habit I think and again, I think this is the reason why some schools have depleting MOOE fund.
7. Always know where you stand. Some practices in the government would really test you and your values. Just stick to your values because you can never go wrong if your principles are clear.
8. Know when to 'read between the lines'. Some people would use sarcasm either as a form of joke or to indirectly tell you how they feel towards you. Be sensitive. Know when to smile and know when to reason out. Timing is very important.
9. Find someone who shares the same work value as you do. This will really help a lot particularly in coping with your working environment.
These only comprises a portion of my mental notes. I will try to add more as I try to remember them.
Nevertheless, I am happy where I am now. The longer I stay here, the more that I am convinced that I am needed here. Working in the public sector is quite a challenge, not because of the task but because of the people around you. Perhaps, I'll allot a separate blog entry for the more inspiring story/stories.
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Valentine Pledge
Today, I will commit to love and serve my
God unconditionally in every way.
I pledge myself to choose and love the
right, the good, the fair and the true.
I will be the light that will ignite a person’s
hope to help them cope.
I will be the strength to those who lose
their way to keep them back on track.
I will comfort and soothe those who are in
pain to restore their smiles.
I will treat everyone with respect, the
way I respect my loved ones.
I will learn how to apologize even if it
would mean swallowing my own pride.
I will intently evaluate every consequence
before I decide to make an action.
I will become a person who takes
responsibility over his actions.
I will also learn how to respect the
property of others.
I will value it the way I value my things.
I will listen and hear others
And I will never judge them because it is
the right thing to do.
I will love others and treat them with
kindness
Because after all, they are my brothers and
sisters in Christ.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Something to Ponder On
Maybe God wanted us to meet the wrong people before meeting the right
one so that when we finally meet the right person, we will know how to
be grateful for that gift.
Maybe when the door of happiness closes, another opens, but often
times we look so long at the closed door that we don't see the one
which has been opened for us.
Maybe the best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch and
swing with, never say a word, and then walk away feeling like it was
the best conversation you've ever had.
Maybe it is true that we don't know what we have got until we lose it,
but it is also true that we don't know what we have been missing until
it arrives.
Giving someone all your love is never an assurance that they will love
you back. Don't expect love in return; just wait for it to grow in
their heart; but if it does not, be content it grew in yours.
It takes only a minute to get a crush on someone, an hour to like
someone, and a day to love someone, but it takes a lifetime to forget
someone.
Don't go for looks; they can deceive. Don't go for wealth; even that
fades away. Go for someone who makes you smile because it takes only a
smile to make a dark day seem bright. Find the one that makes your
heart smile.
There are moments in life when you miss someone so much that you just
want to pick them from your dreams and hug them for real.
Dream what you want to dream; go where you want to go; be what you
want to be, because you have only one life and one chance to do all
the things you want to do.
May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make
you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human, enough hope to make you
happy.
Always put yourself in others' shoes. If you feel that it hurts you,
it probably hurts the other person, too.
The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything;
they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.
Happiness lies for those who cry, those who hurt, those who have
searched, and those who have tried, for only they can appreciate the
importance of people who have touched their lives.
Love begins with a smile, grows with a kiss and ends with a tear.
The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past, you
can't go on well in life until you let go of your past failures and
heartaches.
When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was
smiling. Live your life so that when you die, you are the one who is
smiling and everyone around you is crying.
-- Author Unknown
be grateful for that gift.
Maybe when the door of happiness closes, another opens, but often
times we look so long at the closed door that we don't see the one
which has been opened for us.
Maybe the best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch and
swing with, never say a word, and then walk away feeling like it was
the best conversation you've ever had.
Maybe it is true that we don't know what we have got until we lose it,
but it is also true that we don't know what we have been missing until
it arrives.
Giving someone all your love is never an assurance that they will love
you back. Don't expect love in return; just wait for it to grow in
their heart; but if it does not, be content it grew in yours.
It takes only a minute to get a crush on someone, an hour to like
someone, and a day to love someone, but it takes a lifetime to forget
someone.
Don't go for looks; they can deceive. Don't go for wealth; even that
fades away. Go for someone who makes you smile because it takes only a
smile to make a dark day seem bright. Find the one that makes your
heart smile.
There are moments in life when you miss someone so much that you just
want to pick them from your dreams and hug them for real.
Dream what you want to dream; go where you want to go; be what you
want to be, because you have only one life and one chance to do all
the things you want to do.
May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make
you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human, enough hope to make you
happy.
Always put yourself in others' shoes. If you feel that it hurts you,
it probably hurts the other person, too.
The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything;
they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.
Happiness lies for those who cry, those who hurt, those who have
searched, and those who have tried, for only they can appreciate the
importance of people who have touched their lives.
Love begins with a smile, grows with a kiss and ends with a tear.
The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past, you
can't go on well in life until you let go of your past failures and
heartaches.
When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was
smiling. Live your life so that when you die, you are the one who is
smiling and everyone around you is crying.
-- Author Unknown
Monday, October 29, 2012
Bonding with BFF
My BFF Kristal, whom I fondly call 'Japsee, and I had a sweet afternoon date last Saturday before I attended the launching of Mr. Kengkoy at Moonleaf Naga. We decided to try Hands and Strands' BFF package which includes Hair Spa, Manicure, Pedicure and Foot Spa. As soon as we've finalized the plans for the afternoon, I immediately texted the number posted on their weebly to set an appointment and tadah! we got a slot for 2pm.
Hands and Strands is located at the first floor of ADC Hotel beside Mexicali Naga. You'll easily notice the salon because you will be greeted by an unusual 'blackboard' themed signage, just right outside the salon, where you can see the prices of the services it offers.
Sweet scents of lemon and mint dominate the salon which makes every client a bit curious of what they are to expect when they avail any of the services. Since my best friend and I were getting the BFF package, the one in charge suggested that we have the hair spa first before they do our nails. They asked us to wear cute golden robes while they prepared all the necessary paraphernalia for the foot spa :)
They have service slippers for customers availing the foot spa and pedicure service which I think is cute! :) And they're PINK!
Similar to their hair spa, Hands and Strands offers different flavors for their foot spa. You can choose from Mango, Strawberry, Lemon Grass and Peppermint, that's all that I can remember :( I got Strawberry while Japsee chose Peppermint. The one colored brown is like a mud wax which gives your feet a cool feeling after application.
Hands and Strands is located at the first floor of ADC Hotel beside Mexicali Naga. You'll easily notice the salon because you will be greeted by an unusual 'blackboard' themed signage, just right outside the salon, where you can see the prices of the services it offers.
Entrance Door
Hair Spa
We were presented with the three flavors for the hair spa namely beads, strawberry and mint. Japsee chose the one with beads while I opted for mint.
Super comfy couch :)
After doing our hair, we were seated to this super comfy couch for our foot spa. The best thing about this couch is that it's too comfy that some customers would even fall asleep.
And when you try to look up, you'll see an interesting interior.
Interior
The first thing that we did was to submerge our feet in lukewarm water for about 10-15 minutes.
They have service slippers for customers availing the foot spa and pedicure service which I think is cute! :) And they're PINK!
Strawberry Flavored Foot Spa
Strawberry and Peppermint
Japsee
The entire BFF package lasted for about 2 1/2 hours. We decided to grab a bite at Mexicali to comfort our grumbling tummies :)) We ordered our favorite quesadillas, cheese and garlic for Japsee and grilled chicken for me :)
Cheese and Garlic Quesadillas
Grilled Chicken Quesadillas
I really had a great time bonding with my BFF and we both love Hands and Strands. Who knows, we might avail another package next month.
Cheers to friendship!
Friday, October 5, 2012
8th year
To the person who stood by me through my joys and hardships, the person who kept pushing me to go on despite the uncertainties in my path, the person who made me look forward for tomorrows, the person who made me realize what it means to 'wait', the person who always wanted the best for me even if it means sacrificing his own happiness and the person who made me a better me.
Thank you for never giving up on me, on us.
Thank you for the eight wonderful years and I am looking forward for more years of friendship and love with you :)
I LOVE YOU SO MUCH TIM MARIANO!
Thank you for never giving up on me, on us.
Thank you for the eight wonderful years and I am looking forward for more years of friendship and love with you :)
I LOVE YOU SO MUCH TIM MARIANO!
Photo courtesy of Adee Alarcon :)
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Friday, September 21, 2012
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Favors from God
Ever since I had been attending the Christian Church, I have been consistently receiving graces from the Lord. Everyday, from the moment I open my eyes and feel the rays of the sun touching my skin, I would thank the Lord for giving me another day to live, to be with my loved ones and to do things which will please Him. However, there are days when God would usually go out of His way to make ordinary days EXTREMELY extraordinary. Just like today.
When I got to Bugis, I informed Kuya Ryvin that I won't be joining him anymore since I have been trying to look for the Church but I can't seem to find it. I ended up having breakfast/lunch at McDonalds. I had to eat because I was too hungry that I felt like my world was moving on its own :))
Kuya Ryvin had lunch at McDonalds and we met this cute girl who kept on smiling at us. I called her 'Mutya, the Singapore version'. She is about 3-4 years old and her eyes would literally lighten up whenever she smiles. We waved goodbye when we left and she shyly smiled at us and immediately buried her pretty face in her mom's lap. Then, we started walking towards 'Bugis Divisoria'. There, we found these amazing souvenir items being sold at a very reasonable price (I won't mention the price here though).
Moving on, after our Bugis Divisoria trip, we went to Orchard to meet Uncle Greg. However, they had to go the the Philippine Embassy first to arrange ate's passport renewal and we had to wait for them until 3:00pm. We decided to take a stroll at Isetann since we wanted to check the movies at Shaw Theaters. Kuya Ryvin and I were debating if we should watch the movie given our limited budget. We were already queuing to purchase our movie tickets when some random guy with his friends approached us and asked if we are watching Spiderman. He was giving us tickets that we thought is being sold to us but eventually, it turned out that he was giving two tickets to us for free. We were really caught off guard that we forgot to thank Mr. Stranger. We were still high with the 'favor' when we bumped into them and eventually, it gave us the opportunity to thank them a number of times for their kindheartedness. It also turned out that the tickets include a free meal.
After the movie, we met up with my uncle and we headed for Serangoon to purchase chocolates for his kids. We went to Value Dollar at Nex Mall to scout for the most affordable chocolates. We got the chocolates at a very affordable price. I just hope I won't go over the allowed 20kg baggage allowance.
Later on, uncle brought us to Carl's JR for dinner. I somehow felt awkward choosing our meals because the cheapest meal there is about $6.00. Imagine converting it to peso, it would cost around p200 per person! I decided to order the cheapest meal for me and Kuya Ryvin but our bill still totaled to 45 SGD which is about p1,485. The good thing though is that the drinks are refillable but I doubt if one could still afford refilling his glass because the serving is really big! When our orders arrived, you could imagine the look on our face when we saw the burger. It was bigger than my palm! Look!
Kuya Ryvin and I were supposed to meet up at the Good Shepherd Church to attend the 10:00am mass but something 'extraordinary' happened. I woke up at 8:00am and prepped up immediately. As soon as I was done washing my hair, the water just suddenly stopped flowing! I can't help but grin and be thankful that I woke up early today than usual. I left the house at 8:45am and I started looking for bus 960, unfortunately, I forgot to check where the bus station is. I just assumed when I checked the route in google maps that it will pick up the passengers at the Bukit Panjang Interchange (which is my normal experience by the way) but the bus number is not on the list. I tried asking the owner of the only Filipino store here in our area and she gladly directed me to the bus station. Again, a mistake, I forgot to ask which side of the road I should be on. To cut the story short, I went on the wrong lane and instead of going to Bugis, I ended up going to Kranji. The alloted travel time from our place to Bugis is about 45 minutes and since I wasted at least 20 minutes of the travel time just because I rode on the wrong lane, as expected, I was not able to attend the mass.
When I got to Bugis, I informed Kuya Ryvin that I won't be joining him anymore since I have been trying to look for the Church but I can't seem to find it. I ended up having breakfast/lunch at McDonalds. I had to eat because I was too hungry that I felt like my world was moving on its own :))
I decided to have Filet-O-Fish and orange juice for my brunch. It was quite expensive though. This meal cost me around $7.00. Imagine how expensive this meal is :(
As soon as I finished my meal, I texted Kuya Ryvin that I will try to look for the church again. I passed by the National Library and SMU. When CHIMES caught my eye, I knew I was on the right track. Yes, I found my way to the church but the mass was about to end when I arrived. I decided to offer a simple prayer instead and since it was my first time in the Church, I offered a wish.
We bought 6 sets of these surprisingly nice key chains and I even got the magnets for free. This is the first international magnet that I'd put on refrigerator. Yes, I do collect fridge magnets because it reminds me of the happy memories of a particular trip. I am hoping to collect more :) Too bad, I forgot to buy magnets when we went to Malaysia.
Moving on, after our Bugis Divisoria trip, we went to Orchard to meet Uncle Greg. However, they had to go the the Philippine Embassy first to arrange ate's passport renewal and we had to wait for them until 3:00pm. We decided to take a stroll at Isetann since we wanted to check the movies at Shaw Theaters. Kuya Ryvin and I were debating if we should watch the movie given our limited budget. We were already queuing to purchase our movie tickets when some random guy with his friends approached us and asked if we are watching Spiderman. He was giving us tickets that we thought is being sold to us but eventually, it turned out that he was giving two tickets to us for free. We were really caught off guard that we forgot to thank Mr. Stranger. We were still high with the 'favor' when we bumped into them and eventually, it gave us the opportunity to thank them a number of times for their kindheartedness. It also turned out that the tickets include a free meal.
Upon entering Lido 4, we were given a sweet-flavored regular popcorn and a pepsi bottle for our snacks. I can't help but grin because it was the flavor that I like and I was also kind of hungry that time and I was even thinking of buying snacks since we were already spared of the expense for the ticket. It was also a coincidence that we did not have to rush to the restroom since the theater has one. Yes! Lido 4 has its own restroom inside the theater. See how blessed we are? :)
After the movie, we met up with my uncle and we headed for Serangoon to purchase chocolates for his kids. We went to Value Dollar at Nex Mall to scout for the most affordable chocolates. We got the chocolates at a very affordable price. I just hope I won't go over the allowed 20kg baggage allowance.
We bought enough chocolates for Uncle's kids and he gave me one pack of Mars and Snickers. Yes, I am intending of keeping it to myself :)) I might still change my mind though, I can always share these chocolates anyway.
Later on, uncle brought us to Carl's JR for dinner. I somehow felt awkward choosing our meals because the cheapest meal there is about $6.00. Imagine converting it to peso, it would cost around p200 per person! I decided to order the cheapest meal for me and Kuya Ryvin but our bill still totaled to 45 SGD which is about p1,485. The good thing though is that the drinks are refillable but I doubt if one could still afford refilling his glass because the serving is really big! When our orders arrived, you could imagine the look on our face when we saw the burger. It was bigger than my palm! Look!
But since I was really, really hungry, I finished every piece of the burger :) You must be proud of me Tim! :) We stayed at the restaurant until 8:00pm. We talked and talked about our families, career and plans. We ended up with big bellies after consuming that crazy burger. Overall, I really had a great day and I thank the Lord for it, for the surprises and for the kindhearted stranger :)
Thank you, Singapore! :)
Friday, June 29, 2012
The Untold Story
Ever since I was a kid, I have always wanted having a big sister. I would imagine my big sister helping me choose the right clothes, giving advice on zit outbursts and sharing her own experiences on how she got through a particular girl dilemma, dealing with boys!
I have always wondered how it would feel like having a sister. Mama, coming from a big family with 8 siblings, has 3 sisters while my papa has two younger sisters. I can imagine a regular 'make over session' where your sister paints your nails while you do her hair and a frequent fashion show where you'd get to wear her hand-me-down clothes. You'd be more lucky if you're elder, I think.
Nevertheless, there was also a sense of fascination when my friends would tell me that they would rather have a big brother instead, that I am so lucky because I have a 'kuya'. I would retort, 'having a sister is more fun, kuya doesn't play dolls', with a matching sad face. I was a kid then, who would have thought that an innocent fascination would turn out to be a real blessing.
My kuya is just a year older than me. He was born on April 9 and I was born on the 5th. I don't know how my parents did it but they must have a purpose why we were born on the same month. Since we are just one year apart by birth, I get to have the same age as his for 4 days. My consistent mischief would be calling him by his first name, besides, we are of the same age right? But I could only do that on the first day, maybe because it was more than getting used to calling him 'kuya' for 361 days but he deserves the respect of the title 'kuya'.
My brother has always been my 'protector'. I remembered the time when we were just little kids and we were used to playing in our neighbors' house. There was this one time when I was bitten by our neighbor's dog, kuya immediately grabbed me and all the way to our house, his small hands were encircling my 'fat' thigh just so the rabies won't go up to my heart :( He was pushing me to go on, to keep on walking until we reach our house so that lola could put something on the wound.
There was also one incident when he had to get some coins at our school's fish pond (it was thought to be a wishing pond) just so he could buy me a fishball. He got the coins while I was on the lookout, trying to avoid our ever strict school guard 'Guard Edwin'. I was so hungry that time and we had no money left on our pockets. We were waiting for someone to fetch us and my kuya tried to find a way to feed us both.
I was a crybaby and he was always there to make things seem okay. As long as I have my brother, everything felt right, I feel like nothing bad will happen to me. However, a protector would also have a time of weakness. I remembered crying when I learned that my brother broke his right arm while he was playing at school. It was my Chinese teacher who told me that my brother got into an accident and I rushed to the room where he was but instead of being strong, I fled because I could not bear seeing him like that. I cried and cried until the second period. What was worst was that I could not see my brother in the hospital until his x-ray is done. I ended up calling in sick the following day just to sit beside him all day, watching cartoons.
Don't get me wrong but we would also quarrel. He would squeeze my hands until it makes me cry and when we were getting old, whenever I did something wrong, he would not talk to me for weeks! Even if I tried to win his apology by doing the chores, he would treat me as if I was not physically there. Yes, I am scared of my kuya and I hate it when he gets mad at me.
Now.
Ever since I was a kid, I have always wanted having a big sister but having a big brother is way better. I may not share my clothes with him, won't have make-up and make-over sessions but having someone who will stand by you and encourage you to go on even if the whole world doesn't feel like going with your plans, it's more than to be thankful for. My kuya and I don't regularly talk but when we talk, it's worth the days and weeks that we're not communicating. Even if he would often call me 'spoiled brat', he would always see to it that I get what I want, from my goals to my 'wants' (thanks again for the DSLR kuya!) even it means that he has to sacrifice, that he has to work harder.
Now.
I do not know if I could still make it here in Singapore knowing that I only have 3 weeks left to find a job. Nevertheless, should I not be destined to be here, I'd be more than happy to go back. I am more excited to see my brother and share the space with him. I am excited to clean our house, to cook meals for him and to do the groceries, just like the old times.
Even if I failed here in Singapore, I have a bigger blessing that I am looking forward to when I get home :)
I have always wondered how it would feel like having a sister. Mama, coming from a big family with 8 siblings, has 3 sisters while my papa has two younger sisters. I can imagine a regular 'make over session' where your sister paints your nails while you do her hair and a frequent fashion show where you'd get to wear her hand-me-down clothes. You'd be more lucky if you're elder, I think.
Nevertheless, there was also a sense of fascination when my friends would tell me that they would rather have a big brother instead, that I am so lucky because I have a 'kuya'. I would retort, 'having a sister is more fun, kuya doesn't play dolls', with a matching sad face. I was a kid then, who would have thought that an innocent fascination would turn out to be a real blessing.
My kuya is just a year older than me. He was born on April 9 and I was born on the 5th. I don't know how my parents did it but they must have a purpose why we were born on the same month. Since we are just one year apart by birth, I get to have the same age as his for 4 days. My consistent mischief would be calling him by his first name, besides, we are of the same age right? But I could only do that on the first day, maybe because it was more than getting used to calling him 'kuya' for 361 days but he deserves the respect of the title 'kuya'.
My brother has always been my 'protector'. I remembered the time when we were just little kids and we were used to playing in our neighbors' house. There was this one time when I was bitten by our neighbor's dog, kuya immediately grabbed me and all the way to our house, his small hands were encircling my 'fat' thigh just so the rabies won't go up to my heart :( He was pushing me to go on, to keep on walking until we reach our house so that lola could put something on the wound.
There was also one incident when he had to get some coins at our school's fish pond (it was thought to be a wishing pond) just so he could buy me a fishball. He got the coins while I was on the lookout, trying to avoid our ever strict school guard 'Guard Edwin'. I was so hungry that time and we had no money left on our pockets. We were waiting for someone to fetch us and my kuya tried to find a way to feed us both.
I was a crybaby and he was always there to make things seem okay. As long as I have my brother, everything felt right, I feel like nothing bad will happen to me. However, a protector would also have a time of weakness. I remembered crying when I learned that my brother broke his right arm while he was playing at school. It was my Chinese teacher who told me that my brother got into an accident and I rushed to the room where he was but instead of being strong, I fled because I could not bear seeing him like that. I cried and cried until the second period. What was worst was that I could not see my brother in the hospital until his x-ray is done. I ended up calling in sick the following day just to sit beside him all day, watching cartoons.
Don't get me wrong but we would also quarrel. He would squeeze my hands until it makes me cry and when we were getting old, whenever I did something wrong, he would not talk to me for weeks! Even if I tried to win his apology by doing the chores, he would treat me as if I was not physically there. Yes, I am scared of my kuya and I hate it when he gets mad at me.
Now.
Ever since I was a kid, I have always wanted having a big sister but having a big brother is way better. I may not share my clothes with him, won't have make-up and make-over sessions but having someone who will stand by you and encourage you to go on even if the whole world doesn't feel like going with your plans, it's more than to be thankful for. My kuya and I don't regularly talk but when we talk, it's worth the days and weeks that we're not communicating. Even if he would often call me 'spoiled brat', he would always see to it that I get what I want, from my goals to my 'wants' (thanks again for the DSLR kuya!) even it means that he has to sacrifice, that he has to work harder.
Now.
I do not know if I could still make it here in Singapore knowing that I only have 3 weeks left to find a job. Nevertheless, should I not be destined to be here, I'd be more than happy to go back. I am more excited to see my brother and share the space with him. I am excited to clean our house, to cook meals for him and to do the groceries, just like the old times.
Even if I failed here in Singapore, I have a bigger blessing that I am looking forward to when I get home :)
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Surviving the 28th year
Yesterday, June 25, 2012, my parents celebrated their 28th Wedding Anniversary. I know it is a special day but I don't recall any form of celebration to commemorate that extraordinary day. Ever since I was a kid, it seemed like a very ordinary day for me and my brother. I guess the overflowing beer and the 'til dawn' karaoke would speak of the 'special celebration' because it is also on the same day that my grandmother (papa's mama) was born.
I would often remember my mom saying to my papa 'Oh, ma anniversary na naman kita, mairinuman na naman kamo' (We're going to have our anniversary soon, you're going to get drunk again). Perhaps it was my papa's family's definition of celebration, getting drunk until the wee hours of morning and the guests would just start to leave as soon as my grandmother would start acting 'differently'. Yes, I am never proud of this circumstance. I feel like hiding myself in the house, pretending that I can't hear what our neighbors are saying the following morning.
28 years of marriage. I have been a witness of how sweet and how painful these 28 years are. My family is not perfect, just as everybody thought that I lived in a stress-free home. I grew up in a verbally violent house. There was even a time when I would hear my parents arguing in the morning and it's as if there was a pause button when I was at school, just in time when I get home, the play button will suddenly turn on. Eventually, these heated arguments came to the point in which my mom decided for us to leave my papa. We stayed with my mom's mother for a year or two. Honestly, it was a relief for both me and my brother to be kept away from an environment where you can't even recognize your own father. I thought it was the end of their marriage. The arguments were worst than our financial concerns, I felt like it was really the end.
Yet, God made a way. I personally think that if these bad experiences did not happen, I would not be as close to God as I am now. I don't want to sound too religious but yes, the Christian community helped us 'build' our 'house' again. Since then, our family has been attending Christian service every Sunday because if it was not for God, my family might not be complete today.
My father started to get involved in the praise and worship team. Mama became a regular volunteer for the flower arrangement group. I, myself, would also volunteer to sing during the offertory whenever my schedule permits me to.
Personally, I think that keeping a marriage for 28 years is not easy. Some would give up as early as the first year. I still believe that in a relationship, as long as one person decides to hold on, the relationship will survive. In our case, it was my mom who decided not to let go despite of everything bad that has happened. I really admire my mom for being so tough, despite her petite size, she can instantly transform into a tiger. My brother and I are even afraid of her more than our father.
For the blissful 28 years, I thank the Lord for keeping my family together. I thank the Lord for making my mama strong. I thank the Lord for never giving up on my father. I thank the Lord for the renewed souls, for the understanding heart and for another blissful wedding anniversary for my parents :)
I would often remember my mom saying to my papa 'Oh, ma anniversary na naman kita, mairinuman na naman kamo' (We're going to have our anniversary soon, you're going to get drunk again). Perhaps it was my papa's family's definition of celebration, getting drunk until the wee hours of morning and the guests would just start to leave as soon as my grandmother would start acting 'differently'. Yes, I am never proud of this circumstance. I feel like hiding myself in the house, pretending that I can't hear what our neighbors are saying the following morning.
28 years of marriage. I have been a witness of how sweet and how painful these 28 years are. My family is not perfect, just as everybody thought that I lived in a stress-free home. I grew up in a verbally violent house. There was even a time when I would hear my parents arguing in the morning and it's as if there was a pause button when I was at school, just in time when I get home, the play button will suddenly turn on. Eventually, these heated arguments came to the point in which my mom decided for us to leave my papa. We stayed with my mom's mother for a year or two. Honestly, it was a relief for both me and my brother to be kept away from an environment where you can't even recognize your own father. I thought it was the end of their marriage. The arguments were worst than our financial concerns, I felt like it was really the end.
Yet, God made a way. I personally think that if these bad experiences did not happen, I would not be as close to God as I am now. I don't want to sound too religious but yes, the Christian community helped us 'build' our 'house' again. Since then, our family has been attending Christian service every Sunday because if it was not for God, my family might not be complete today.
My father started to get involved in the praise and worship team. Mama became a regular volunteer for the flower arrangement group. I, myself, would also volunteer to sing during the offertory whenever my schedule permits me to.
Personally, I think that keeping a marriage for 28 years is not easy. Some would give up as early as the first year. I still believe that in a relationship, as long as one person decides to hold on, the relationship will survive. In our case, it was my mom who decided not to let go despite of everything bad that has happened. I really admire my mom for being so tough, despite her petite size, she can instantly transform into a tiger. My brother and I are even afraid of her more than our father.
For the blissful 28 years, I thank the Lord for keeping my family together. I thank the Lord for making my mama strong. I thank the Lord for never giving up on my father. I thank the Lord for the renewed souls, for the understanding heart and for another blissful wedding anniversary for my parents :)
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
The Bucket List
Earlier today, I was trying to recall where I wrote my original bucket list. I am not sure if I was brave enough to share it to my pseudo-readers (if I have any at all) or I just tried to keep it to myself then will just blog about the experience once I crossed out the particular item in my bucket list. Hmm.. I think I would prefer the former :)
To give you a short background, the so called bucket list started with the movie with the same title. It was shown in 2007 which starred Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson. Freeman was a mechanic while Nicholson was a billionaire who also owned the hospital where they are both confined at. They both had lung cancer and eventually they became friends while they were undergoing the treatment. It was Freeman who started writing the 'things that he wanted to do before he dies' while Carter, while learning about Freeman's plans, offered to finance his 'trips'.
I came across the story because of Kuya Egz. Kuya Egz, whom I fondly call 'Gier', is one of the best people in the university whom you can consult about music and movies. When I say consult, it's like if you're looking for a music for a particular formation session, music that has meaning, then he is the 'guy'. As for movies, he may have seen almost all the tear-jerker movies of every decade and he can easily recommend what is best, let's say for a particular session or if you are simply looking for a quality movie that you can watch over the weekend. Yes, he is the king of soundtrack and films.
Back to my bucket list. I tried to remember the things that I originally wrote and perhaps I will be adding more in the near future. What's important is that I was able to document my bucket list this time. So, here goes.
Tintin's Bucket List
1. Learn how to swim (I partly know how to swim now, am just trying to practice the intervals in breathing and the hand stroke during for a freestyle)
2. Travel to one foreign place every year (I did this for the last two years and this year was my first international trip)
3. Be employed in a foreign country (*fingers crossed*)
4. Get married at the age of 26 (Maybe I could make it 27, in case)
5. Learn how to play the guitar (Still thinking when I could do this)
6. Learn how to drive (When? Soon?)
7. Name my daughter Sophia Danielle
8. Have at least 3 dogs in my OWN house
9. Talk to a random stranger and offer him/her a ride home
10. Learn how to cook
11. Have my own website
12. Sing infront of 1,000 people
13. Give my mom her dream shop - her own flower shop
14. Admit to one person that I was crushing on him
15. Learn one foreign language
16. Learn how to surf
To give you a short background, the so called bucket list started with the movie with the same title. It was shown in 2007 which starred Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson. Freeman was a mechanic while Nicholson was a billionaire who also owned the hospital where they are both confined at. They both had lung cancer and eventually they became friends while they were undergoing the treatment. It was Freeman who started writing the 'things that he wanted to do before he dies' while Carter, while learning about Freeman's plans, offered to finance his 'trips'.
I came across the story because of Kuya Egz. Kuya Egz, whom I fondly call 'Gier', is one of the best people in the university whom you can consult about music and movies. When I say consult, it's like if you're looking for a music for a particular formation session, music that has meaning, then he is the 'guy'. As for movies, he may have seen almost all the tear-jerker movies of every decade and he can easily recommend what is best, let's say for a particular session or if you are simply looking for a quality movie that you can watch over the weekend. Yes, he is the king of soundtrack and films.
Back to my bucket list. I tried to remember the things that I originally wrote and perhaps I will be adding more in the near future. What's important is that I was able to document my bucket list this time. So, here goes.
Tintin's Bucket List
1. Learn how to swim (I partly know how to swim now, am just trying to practice the intervals in breathing and the hand stroke during for a freestyle)
2. Travel to one foreign place every year (I did this for the last two years and this year was my first international trip)
3. Be employed in a foreign country (*fingers crossed*)
4. Get married at the age of 26 (Maybe I could make it 27, in case)
5. Learn how to play the guitar (Still thinking when I could do this)
6. Learn how to drive (When? Soon?)
7. Name my daughter Sophia Danielle
8. Have at least 3 dogs in my OWN house
9. Talk to a random stranger and offer him/her a ride home
10. Learn how to cook
11. Have my own website
12. Sing infront of 1,000 people
13. Give my mom her dream shop - her own flower shop
14. Admit to one person that I was crushing on him
15. Learn one foreign language
16. Learn how to surf
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Tintin Risked
by: Karl Llorin
Tintin laughed
Tintin wept
Tintin reached out and got involved
Tintin shared her ideas, dreams to each one of us
Tintin loved us and is loved in return
Tintin lives
Tintin believed
Tintin tried
Tintin risked
Tintin is really something
Tintin suffered
Tintin learned
Tintin changed
And if you did not notice, Tintin grew
Tintin is free
(Based from risk poem)
Tintin laughed
Tintin wept
Tintin reached out and got involved
Tintin shared her ideas, dreams to each one of us
Tintin loved us and is loved in return
Tintin lives
Tintin believed
Tintin tried
Tintin risked
Tintin is really something
Tintin suffered
Tintin learned
Tintin changed
And if you did not notice, Tintin grew
Tintin is free
(Based from risk poem)
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Thursday, April 26, 2012
YOU
YOU who made my heart skipped a beat the first time I saw you in the middle of the day as you glided along the pavement towards my school. I knew it, it was attraction at first sight. I'm not sure what love meant then but I am sure, you had one of the brightest smile that could lighten up a dull day. You had one of those sweetest stare that could melt any girl's heart and you had that distinct way of saying R's which makes every word sounds childish yet manly.
I prayed then that you would notice me and you did. God knows that I do not deserve a perfect being like you. We were the exact opposite. You were tall, I was short. You were thin, I was semi-fat. You were good-looking, I had issues then if I was attractive. We somehow had a number of differences. Your school was full of rowdy boys, ok, perhaps a number of rowdy boys while my school was made up of the unknown geeks in town. You were an only child while I was the youngest child. Yet despite our differences, we somehow 'clicked'.
We both shared the same interest on anime, I was your Miaka, you were my Tamahome. I remembered both of us getting a little emotional over the dramatic scenes of a simple tv series. We talked for hours over the phone, it's as if there's no tomorrow. We had endless topics to talk about. You were in my world and so did I. It was August 21, 2001. We officially became a couple. Despite the overwhelming love that we have for each other, we decided to part ways. We were fighting over the same issue and I had to admit, I have hurt you a lot. Our relationship died after two years and a half.
College. I was not sure if I want to be in ADNU. I knew for a fact that I would bump into you. But you know what? What really scares me is seeing you with somebody else. Despite the fear, I enrolled in ADNU. I took Psychology and you were taking up Information Management then later I learned that you shifted to Management. Then my worse fear came true. I saw you, with her, a girl whom I don't really know, she's holding your hands, the hands that used to be mine. I can't explain the pain, I knew that I had to get away. It was on that day that I admitted that I loved you still, that I shouldn't have asked you to let me go.
Second year. I received a call from you. You were drunk. You asking me back. I hesitated. I was not sure if I was ready, ready to take the risk. One thing I was sure of was I still loved you, I have always loved you despite all. Both of us took the risk.
October 7, 2004, we got back together.
Yes, YOU. I know that we still have to work on our ups and downs, we still have our petty 'tampuhans' and childish 'fights' but giving up on each other is not an option. We did that once but we're not doing it again. Our relationship has survived a lot of trials and it kept us strong, it made us love each other more.
YOU. The man who made me a better woman. The man who was always there for me and for my dreams despite the failures. The man who made me want to look forward for tomorrows, for movie dates, for arcade games, for pet shops and for pizzas. The man who unceasingly showed how compassionate he can be for the man he loves. The man who has sacrificed a lot just to see me happy. The man who willingly took the responsibility of taking care of me.
You. My soulmate, my confidante, my bestfriend, my beau, my number one fan and my pet buddy. I love you, until my last breath ♥ I can't wait to become Mrs. Kristine Bernadette D. Mariano :)
I prayed then that you would notice me and you did. God knows that I do not deserve a perfect being like you. We were the exact opposite. You were tall, I was short. You were thin, I was semi-fat. You were good-looking, I had issues then if I was attractive. We somehow had a number of differences. Your school was full of rowdy boys, ok, perhaps a number of rowdy boys while my school was made up of the unknown geeks in town. You were an only child while I was the youngest child. Yet despite our differences, we somehow 'clicked'.
We both shared the same interest on anime, I was your Miaka, you were my Tamahome. I remembered both of us getting a little emotional over the dramatic scenes of a simple tv series. We talked for hours over the phone, it's as if there's no tomorrow. We had endless topics to talk about. You were in my world and so did I. It was August 21, 2001. We officially became a couple. Despite the overwhelming love that we have for each other, we decided to part ways. We were fighting over the same issue and I had to admit, I have hurt you a lot. Our relationship died after two years and a half.
College. I was not sure if I want to be in ADNU. I knew for a fact that I would bump into you. But you know what? What really scares me is seeing you with somebody else. Despite the fear, I enrolled in ADNU. I took Psychology and you were taking up Information Management then later I learned that you shifted to Management. Then my worse fear came true. I saw you, with her, a girl whom I don't really know, she's holding your hands, the hands that used to be mine. I can't explain the pain, I knew that I had to get away. It was on that day that I admitted that I loved you still, that I shouldn't have asked you to let me go.
Second year. I received a call from you. You were drunk. You asking me back. I hesitated. I was not sure if I was ready, ready to take the risk. One thing I was sure of was I still loved you, I have always loved you despite all. Both of us took the risk.
October 7, 2004, we got back together.
Yes, YOU. I know that we still have to work on our ups and downs, we still have our petty 'tampuhans' and childish 'fights' but giving up on each other is not an option. We did that once but we're not doing it again. Our relationship has survived a lot of trials and it kept us strong, it made us love each other more.
YOU. The man who made me a better woman. The man who was always there for me and for my dreams despite the failures. The man who made me want to look forward for tomorrows, for movie dates, for arcade games, for pet shops and for pizzas. The man who unceasingly showed how compassionate he can be for the man he loves. The man who has sacrificed a lot just to see me happy. The man who willingly took the responsibility of taking care of me.
You. My soulmate, my confidante, my bestfriend, my beau, my number one fan and my pet buddy. I love you, until my last breath ♥ I can't wait to become Mrs. Kristine Bernadette D. Mariano :)
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Cravings
This is one of my favorite food from Bigg's. Their Tenderloin Tips is one of the best. Plus, when you get to dine with the coolest people, it's one deal that you shouldn't miss.
Friday, April 6, 2012
Birthday Bliss
26 years. The Lord has blessed with 26 meaningful years.
April 5, 2012 , Maundy Thursday
I am used to celebrating my birthday on a holy week. Ever since I was a kid, when my birthday falls on a holy week, we would usually celebrate my birthday on my kuya's birthday or on the nearest sunday. By the way, just a trivia, my brother and I are of the same age for four days, he was born April 9, 1985. Sometimes, I would jokingly state that I am not obliged to call him 'kuya' until he celebrates his birthday.
Anyhow, this year, I just stayed at home but I had the nicest breakfast ever. I literally woke up at 6:05am, I took a screenshot of the time on my phone for documentation (lazy excuse! I just love how the smiling star brightens up my morning) and Tim prepared pancit canton (my all-time fave!) and cheesedogs for breakfast.
In the afternoon, we went to Amang Hinulid, a usual Lenten season 'panata' that we do. Tim joined me, my mom and kuya going there. We left the house at 5:00pm and arrived there at around 6:30pm. This was the first time that we went late at Calabanga because usually mama and I would go there by 2:00pm.
When we arrived, the line going to Amang Hinulid was too long that it took us almost 3 hours to reach the image. It was worth the walk and the wait.
After that, we went straight to Auntie Dhing's house for our dinner. She prepared a special meal for us that I even thanked her for allowing me to celebrate my birthday at their house :)) The next I knew, we were racing towards the Calabanga-Naga jeepneys. I never imagined girls riding on top of the jeepney, I don't know what it's called but they're sitting on 'roofdeck' of the jeepney. It's quite dangerous and yes, they are still girls. I don't know but it could be a way for the jeepney drivers to earn more, they really know how to maximize the opportunity.
I hope that in my next blog, I can come up with a new set of bucket list or a list of memorable blessings that I am really thankful of. Nevertheless, I thank God for giving me another year to be wiser, kinder and become a more faithful servant to Him.
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