To My Person

Dearest Doggie,

Today I found myself crying when my cousin carted you off in a small cage. You are on your way to Baguio - your new home. I wish with all my heart that you will stay with me, after all I was supposed to bring you to grooming service. 

I fell in love with you the first time I saw you. You were in green sando then sitting atop the mantle. I kept eyeing you in case you decided to jump and fell down. I wanted to hug you, but I resisted myself, knowing that you aren't mine. But then, my brother brought you to me and it look like I am holding heaven in my arms. The first night, you slept on my bed. You were fast sound asleep, maybe because you were tired because you were taking in your new environment. I heard it was stressful for the dog. I decided to take care of you. I brought you to clinic to received your deworming and doggie shot. I take care of you through it all. I even brought you your squeaky toy so that you won't bite me. 

You were so easy to love. You like my hugs so much. When I came home you keep on jumping begging me to cart you off.  You listen when I talk to you. Wake me up in the morning just so you can have your morning routine. We watched television together. 

I will miss you so so much.  Hope they will take good care of you over there. I am praying that you will have a healthy, long life. 

Love,

Series

Posing for the camera!

First De-worming. Behave!

Playing with your green thingy

Smile! You don't like to walk much, do you?

First night together.

After you received your first doggie shot

LDR Diary #3

This "waiting game" is bringing out the worst in me. Who said long distance relationship is a breeze? Nah. The words of those who survive long distance is a big fat lie! My experience with long distance relationship is excruciatingly painful (because you weren't with each other side), and emotionally draining. It was also time consuming. Between the two of us, I was the one who always makes adjustment to whatever situation we are in. I have to be content with myself that one day we'll be together and what he is doing is for the betterment of our future. 

How do I cope and make our relationship fun despite the distance?

Communicate. Never ever let the days go by without communication. When on video call, always wear your best smiles. Any whining must be suppressed. When there is something you want to talk about (i.e. expectations) talk to them about it, don't let them guess, keep it straight-forward.

Take Photos. We have this ongoing project aptly named "Half you. Half Me". We will take photos of ourselves then combine it into one. Just take a picture, be it the food you cook. The activities you do.

Me Time. Never ever wait for your significant other to call you. Always have a date with yourself first. It will never do if you just sit there and do nothing. Go and conquer the world, keep yourself fit and healthy and learn something new.

Long distance may not be easy but it can tell you a lot of thing about a person who was in an LDR relationship. Just always remember that if and when you survive it, it will all be worthwhile.

LDR Diary #2

Sacrifice. Trust. Understanding. Communication. Patience

These are the important ingredients to survive a long distance relationship. As stated in my previous post, my fiancee is working at Tim Hortons in Victoria, Canada. He is working there close to a month already. To date, we are still communicating everyday (we videochat during my lunch break at the office and before I go to sleep each night. Aside from video chatting, we also send viber texts/messages in between for updates or just to keep the communication line open). It was not easy, at least for me. For four years that we've been together, my life revolved around home, work and him. I do have hobbies since I have attended art workshops/classes like photography, polymer clay making and fabric flower making. For those who knew me, I am a very frugal person, I don't relish taking classes because its pricey despite the fact that it will also be beneficial to me. Nevertheless, I just hate spending money so I prefer to put it in a bank or invest it. So, I have a very limited social life. When my fiancee take off to Canada to work, I have a lot of time on my hand and I don't know what to do about myself. I want to improve on myself, however, I don't know where to start. For the meantime, I while away my time at work, reading books, and most of the time I am awaiting for his messages which sounds pitiful. But what could I do?

Long distance relationship can be very frustrating. You don't know what your plans will be. We were supposed to set the wedding for October 2016, but because of the contract, the processing of the permanent residency the wedding will surely be move to a later (just hoping that it won't be in late 2017 or 2018 - regardless, I am still set on October 2016 **finger crossed**).

One of the fear that I have in this long distance relationship is trust issues. I am not a jealous person by nature since I trust my fiancee not to betray me. I just find it hard to trust the girls around him since separation can also leads to temptation. After all he is a guy. Trust is a very fragile thing. I know that my fiancee love me and will stay faithful, but sometimes I can't help but wonder if he fancies another one, which is very immature of me. I try to get it our of my head since I saw no reasons that he will do that.

I was hoping that in the long run, I would be more confident with what I have and what I feel, I will be doing activities that will satisfies myself and also, I'm hoping that we have a date already so that I can start planning for our wedding so that I can keep myself busy (which I really really wanted). Unfortunately, I will survive and enjoy the ride.

Grid-It Organizer: My New Travel Buddy

I have been scouring online for a way to organize my gadgets. My criteria in finding such organizer are simple:

1. It must hold my things firmly in place
2. Can be put in a bag without taking up a lot of space
3. Must have a zippered storage
4. Unique

I found it at Wellmanson's, which is known for selling a lot of useful things. I even bought their packing cube!

Grid-It Organizer is a must travel companion because it makes things easier. I hate going through my bag just to look for my earphone, my chargers and my pocket Wi-Fi. With Grid-It Organizer, it simply hold my things in place. I am contemplating on buying another once I learn how to doodling. I am going to puts a lots of pens and crafts materials.

My Grid It Organizer! There is still space for my new Romoss Sense 6 20000mAh powerbank!

LDR Diary #1

A few minutes ago, my fiance has finally landed in Vancouver, BC, Canada. I have been tracking his flight with the help of FlightAware App. Though Labsie hasn't yet message/update any of us as of this moment still you felt exhilarated by simply following that little plane on your screen.

It is no joke that long distance is hard especially if you are the touch-feely type, but thanks to technology its makes everything seems easier. Last night, Labsie and I saw each other via Facetime, he was still in Taipei then and was strolling through the airport. I don't know if he eventually bought that Nike cap knowing Labsie, maybe he did. Moreover, hearing and seeing him happy through video chat makes me happy too.

As he will be adjusting to the life in Canada, we are going to put wedding planning on hold, but eventually, we'll get to that. His work is the main priority for now so that we can have the life that he always envision for us.

FlightAware-Tracking Labsie Flight

Road Trip to Bicol

We (Labsie, Labsie's Dad and I) went on a road trip to Bicol on Thursday night. Our trip involves lots of car flying into oblivion, and muddy roads, and non-stop winding road. It was an experience. The purpose of the trip is for Papa Jo (Labsie's Dad) to meet my parents and to talk about our plans for the future (i.e. wedding and marriage).

As I inform you in the previous blog post, Labsie will be going to Canada. He is schedule to depart on July 21 so there will be a lots of emails, letters and Skype. And I am going to miss him big time! But not to worry, we have plans, my only hope is that we'll succeed. 

Back to our Bicol Trip, since most of the time my trip to Bicol was a blur because I always fell asleep during the car ride, this time I am awake the whole time. It was actually Tito Jojo first time in Bicol. Upon arriving at the early hours of 5:00 am in Tabaco, Labsie and his father proceeded to hotel to rest. While I reactivate my COMELEC registration so that I will be able to vote on next year national election. All of us have our lunch at home. Papa served Bicol express, Humba, and Laing. We then took a side trip to Mayon's Resthouse. It was windy and you could practically hear the wind howling. Because it was chilly we went to Noks for Lomi to warm us up.

We are schedule to go back to Manila on Saturday afternoon, so we went to Amater Spring Resort to enjoy nature swim. The water was cold and clear. Then we have our lunch again at our house, this time its seaweed (latok) and tuna fish. Fresh Buko Juice was also served. 

It is a good thing that Labsie make time to go to Bicol before he went to Canada so that my parents were aware of our plans.

Reading Marathon

Reading is dreaming with open eyes

I've always love to read books. 

When I was a baby toddling along I always have my hardbound ABC book with me. Mama would patiently read me through ABCs and phrases until I was able to read without assistance. During the summer of 1997, I was already reading Baby-Sitters Club by Ann M. Martin at the age of 7 (never would I dream that Mama would be annoyed with me because I read to much. But then, who doesn't when one forget to eat and sleep). I would go on an adventure full of mystery and problem solving with Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys and the Bobbsey Twins.

In high school, I have an on-off love affair with Sweet Valley. During this time, I also fell in love with literature and short stories, however, I detest reading technical books (i.e. math, science, accounting, etc.). Mama also gifted me with a set of encyclopedia and a big dictionary (I still use the dictionary to this day).

I am by nature not intelligent. I don't even have a photographic memory nor was I able to retain the information that I read, what more, I don't even have a perfect grammar (need practice on this one)! Can you believe it? I just love to read. Reading for me is a pleasure. I was able to travel to another place without moving (I would very much like a chance to see the world on foot).

Reading has always been a constant in my life. I remember one time during my university years, I brought a Harry Potter book and read it in class instead listening to my professor's lecture about partnership and equities. The professor swooped down and confiscated my book until the end of the class. So reading was done at home at a leisure time. I would also buy a LOT of second hand novels near school. During semester break I would to my heart's content. 

I was out of school for many years now, and I don't read as much as before. Right now, instead of books I have e-books (digital books). I have thousand in collections most of which I haven't read yet. So, I still have lot of adventure to explore, more characters to meet and more love and friendship to treasure.

Santacruzan at DBM

As part of DBM 79th Anniversary, the BMB-A decides to enter the Santacurzan Summer Fiesta. However rules must be followed. First, it must be made of recycled office supplies. Second, must be wearable. And last, it must be unique (points for creativity).

The BMB-A's fashion committee came up with these upon research off on the internet.

Then we came up with these (me wearing the gown).

I made the flowers you see on my head, waist and skirt. My earrings were made of paper clips by putting a double adhesive tape in my ears. (ouch!)

In the end, I won the 3rd place and get to take home a whooping Php 3,000 which I shared with my officemates.

Booked: Josiah's Catering Inc.

I have been to two Josiah's food tasting (La Pergola Verde and Blue Leaf Event Hall) and they didn't disappoint me. Their foods were sumptuous and overflowing. Also, it helps that their styling weren't bad either.

www.josiahcatering.com/

Below are the dishes that were served to me on both occasions.

• Wild Mushroom Soup served with bread and butter - rich, creamy and filling. The bread were also good and tasty.
• Welcome Treats - we love their welcome treats except for my sister she hates the "Pissaladieres"
• Mango Boursin Cheese on Toast
• California Seafood Spring Roll - we love this!! Yummy
• Wild Mushroom Tart
• Pissaladieres - dry and lump
• Rice Pilaf - according to Labsie its grains were hard
• Spaghetti
• Spaghetti with Seafood and Sundried Tomato Pesto - best served when hot
• Fish/Seafood
• Pan Seared Cobbler with Mango Butter Sauce - taste great for someone who doesn't like fish fillet
• Chicken
• Sundried Tomato and Cream Cheese Stuffed  Roast Chicken
• Grilled Chicken Teriyaki - my sister love this too!
• Pork
• Marinated Roast Pork Belly with Carolina Barbecue Sauce - too much fat
• Beef
• Sliced US Beef Short Place with Mushroom Gravy - I especially like the mashed potato on top of the beef
• Desserts
• White Chocolate - Thumb Up!
• Blueberry Cheesecake - Thumb Up!
• Mango Shortcake - Meh!
• Red Velvet - Too sweet
• Chocolate Indulgence - Thumb Up!
• Peanut Butter Mousse - taste like peanut butter
• Peach and Mango Panna Cotta - taste like peach

Taken from Josiah's Facebook Account. One of the Food Tasting I attended with my sister at La Pergola Verde

I was a bit disappointed with how Josiah's Account Executive (AE) handled us. It took ages before we were attended to. Finally, one of the AE discussed to us their company, foods and their freebies if we book with them on the spot. Because of attractive freebies Labsie book with them and viola! We already have a caterer, Only venue left to consider.

Josiah's Catering Inc.

34 East Drive Marikina Heights, Marikina

Booked: Photography and Videography

"You don't really take a moment to capture something, but to capture something in that moment."


I have difficulty in choosing Photographer and videographer who will capture one of the most important part of my life. And their rates were craaazzzyyy!!! I didn't know photographer/videographer were supposed to be expensive! As much as I like Jason Magbanua, Bob Nicoloas, Pat Dy and Phoebe Teocson I can't afford them.

So, I researched. Then, I came across CamZar Photography and Daniel Lei/Southern Spring. I love their works and their creativity. Hope they won't disappoint me.

You may browse their works through their websites and Facebook account.

http://danielleistudio.blogspot.com/

http://camzarphoto.com/

Booked: Church

541 days until the big day!

Finally after much procrastinating -- we already have a church and a date! The Archdiocesan Shrine of Jesus, the Way, the Truth and the Life which was located near SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. The church itself was airy, intimate and spacious. We decided to pencil book our preferred date but need to come back a week later to pay for the 50% to blocked the date. We haven't yet really decided on the church because my fiancee was leaning toward having his wedding at UST Chapel. So, we came back a month later - good thing our date is still open.

So with no further ado, my fiancee paid the Php 12,500 to block the date, it's non-refundable - so no backing out! The church assistant also discussed to us the contract, requirements and the do's and don't especially when it comes to bridal and entourage gown. Good thing they didn't set an age limit to bearer and flower girls. They are also strict with photographer and videographer. Not to worry though, the photographer and videographer will be having an orientation weeks before your wedding so that they know where will they take the photos. I understand their policy since I also want my wedding to be solemn. You will also be paying Php 1,000 clearance fee for photographer and videographer in addition to the contract price of Php 25,000.

Overall, we have no problem with their policy. And I know that our photographer and videographer will also do their best to take our pictures without violating the church rules.

Oh, the church also forbids throwing of confetti, petals, and rice inside and outside the church. So we will be using either ribbons, balloon, bubbles, dove or maybe butterflies?

The Church facade (source: from internet)

inside the church (source: from internet)

For more information contact:

Archdiocesan Shrine of Jesus, the Way, the Truth and the Life

Address: Pope John Paul Youth Center, Coral Way, Central Business Park, Reclamation Area, Pasay City

Contact Number: (02) 556-6175 to 76

I am Engaged!

When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible. - When Harry Met Sally

Labsie and I have been together for almost four years now (we will be celebrating our 4th on March 8). These past few months, Labsie has been hinting about the proposal and/or ring since December last year. He kept on measuring my ring size (was it size 5? 6? or 7?) and asking if it fit. At first, I thought he would be buying me a Pandora ring since he kept on visiting Pandora website. When we went to Resort World Pasay, he also check out the Pandora boutique scouting for the ring that will suit me. While he was planning on how to execute his proposal, I was growing impatient day by day (because I know that he is planning one). Until, he invite me on a road trip to Baguio-Zambales with his officemates/friends.

Unbeknownst to him (or - was it his plan?), I already gave up on waiting for the "ring". I just go about my day to day activities without constantly nagging him about the ring.  

Then, he popped the "Will You Marry Me?" during our trip to Anawangin Cove in Zambales. Boy, I was floored and ecstatic and nervous all at the same time!  

Anawangin Cove, Zambales

Throughout the trip, before he popped the question, he kept on rubbing my ring finger but I just ignore the gesture thinking it was just a ruse. It was later that I've found that he was nervous about asking me. Good for him! 

  

It was one heady experience to be asked to marry by the man of your dream. Now my hand felt heavy and I am already having jitters about the big day. 

2014 Food Date Recap

We always love to eat and try new foods (but it must be within our budget, or else we go hungry). It was a stomach filled year for us. Hope 2015 brings more budget friendly dates.

New Year, New Look, New Me

Happy New Year!

So, I'm sporting a new hair-do (yipee!). I've been trying to tame my hair using dove and to no avail it remain frizzy and brittle, so I got mine rebonded over the holiday. For sure, I'll be maintaining this one.

My vacation in Bicol is a good gloomy one, it's been raining non-stop and I only got to go out on December 30th to meet with my high school friends classmates and its been raining hard.

On the plus side, I've got to spend more time with my family, especially my mother, we've been talking about life in general and also, about my love life in details. (It's also a good time to broach about marriage and kids, just so there won't be any surprises in the future as to where the two of us are heading).

I also miss the only love of my life, though we don't send each other messages as often as before, still it good to know that I'm being miss without being obsessive about it.

So, here's to a happier 2015.