Wild West Mine Train

I have ridden a roller coaster thrice. 

Though it is not really big.  But surely, enough to get my adrenaline rushing. :D

 

The Space Shuttle in Enchanted Kingdom
Image Source : http://www.theviewingdeck.com/
2011/04/rollercoasters.htm

The first was in 2004 in Enchanted Kingdom, Manila.   I rode it with Rene Tan, Pat's best friend.  We just had our dinner (pizza) when we passed by the Space Shuttle.  And Rene and I decided to try it.  Pat found an excuse not to ride - his stomach is very full, hehehe...  Unfortunately though, I don't have a picture of it.  And Pat forgot to take a picture of me because he was watching me screaming my lungs out from the moment the coaster started until it stopped.  He said I look so funny.  And I also had my eyes closed the whole time, hehehee... The only time I opened my eyes was in one part when we slowed down and I could feel like my spirit is being sucked out of my body.  I thought I am going to faint.  And I wondered what our position could be so I decided to look.  To my surprise, when I opened my eyes, I was staring into the sky.  We were like lying down facing the black starry sky and we were on the peak of the coaster trail.  A few seconds later I again closed my eyes as the coaster rolled back downwards.

My second coaster ride was in Disneyland, Hongkong.  It was an indoor roller coaster.  And this time I rode it with Pat. And this time I made sure I would not close my eyes.  And yes!  I was able to open my eyes the whole time. And so I was able to see - the dark. hehehe... with only some lights flashing. 

The only photo we have at the Space Mountain. 
A picture printed by the operators of the coaster ride which cost us 100 Hongkong dollars. (I think this was the most expensive item we bought in Hongkong.)  :D
Again, I am shouting at the top of my lungs, hehehe....

The third coaster ride I had was in Ocean Park.  Pat was not with me again this time.  He had to babysit the son of his niece. The boy is only 5 years and could not yet be allowed to ride the coaster.  His parents rode with me, hehehe  :-)

Jaze, the son of Pat's niece  Isn't he cute?  :-)

There's me in blue sleeveless blouse. :-)

Holding on tight to the handle bar :-)
I would have really wanted to also raise my hands like what the other riders are doing.  But didn't do it because the seat belt was a bit loose for me.  I was afraid I fall off if don't hold on to the bar.  hehehe...

Shouting at the top of my lungs!

 I think this is the part where the ride is almost over, yet I am still shouting.hahaha... :D

Pat, not being able to ride with me, was a blessing in disguise.  He was able to capture my greatest coaster ride ever, hehehe...  "Thanks for the photos Pat. Love you."

As I was falling in line with Pat's nieces to get my turn on the ride, I saw the different effects of the coaster on the riders.  Some looked so pale.  Others almost fainted.  Others can't seemed to get out of the seat anymore.  Some vomited.  As I watched them, and as my turn neared, I felt like backing out.  I don't know what could happen to me up there.  But the thrill, the adventure and the once in a lifetime experience overpowered my doubts.  I said to myself, it's now or never. hehehe...  So, I pushed through with it but made a silent prayer to God to help me get through this one ride and I will not anymore ride coasters.  Whew.  

Notice the look on my face on all the photos?  Shouting.  Yap.  I was shouting the whole time.  It was not because I am scared.  It was actually to get rid of the tension in my body.   To avoid the vomiting and dizzying episode after the ride.  
 
So, what happened to me after all the rolling and shouting?

Tada!  End of the ride.  All smiles now!!! :D

This photo was taken before we entered Ocean Park.

The coaster ride behind me is the Wild West Mine Train I just rode on.   I was thinking if I would be able to take a ride with it.  But.   I never thought my thoughts could become a reality.  Thanks to Pat's nieces who also wanted to try it.  So, I had company and was able to have the chance of a lifetime. :-)

The Love I Found In You

Wow.

It has been more than a month since I wrote a post here.  The excitement for my trip to Cambodia-Thailand with Pat and his family has kind of "disabled" me to add other posts for October.   I told myself not to worry 'coz when I get back from the trip, I sure will have so much to write about.   :-)

October 31 around 5pm.  Pat and I were back in Iligan.  Got busy with All Saints Day and All Souls Day.  Got busy unpacking.  Returned to work.  Got some ideas on topics to blog about.  But somehow.  Just kinda got tired from the trip.  So, nothing's working on my mind to be able to write even just one post. Tsk tsk tsk.

Until now.

However, tonight, I am not yet going to blog about "the trip".   I am now listening to my music collection in the computer hard drive while uploading (finally, had the energy and the will to upload photos from the trip) some photos in Facebook.  And a song from Jim Brickman caught my attention and thought I 'd just make a post of its lyrics and the music.  And thought I'd post it in my blog right now while I am here in front of my computer, hehe...  :-)

The song reminded me of Pat.  The love we share.  And most specially the love he gives me for more than 8 years now. :-D

Here's the lyrics to The Love I Found In You

With Pat at Le Fenix Hotel in Bangkok

You are the air I need to breathe
the river of life inside of me
you are the half that made me whole
you are the anchor of my soul

and you are strong when I am weak
you are the words when I can't speak
you never fail to see me through
that's the love I found in you

you are my shelter from the storm
you are the road that leads me home
and baby with you here face to face
Oh I know I've found my place

and you are strong when I am weak
you are the words when I can't speak
you never fail to see me through
that's the love I found in you

and once in every life
you find the one that's right
and when you say forever it's true
That's the love I found in you

You are strong when I am weak
you are the words when I can't speak
you never fail to see me through
That's the love I found in you

That's the love, love I found in you.

Dear Pat my gen, 

When we first became friends in 2003, I never thought I'd be spending the next years of my life with you.  

From the start until now, you see me through.  You always seemed to finish my sentences.  You know what I want.  You know what I need.  You, most of the time, read my mind.  Mura kag si Superman, hehehe...  

You've made me become a better me.  You always find ways to make my dreams come true.   And I am happy that I am sharing my dreams with you.  I won't spend it any other way.  If I am to live my life again, I still would want to live it with you. 

We seemed like soul mates, if there's such a thing, hehehe.... :-)

That's the love Pat my gen, I found in you (when you found me!).  

Thank you so much.  I love you! Muaaahhh!

Yours always,

Binky - your baks :-)


And here's the music :

Mango Float

Finally! After making mango float for several times, I have already taken a photo of it, hehehe...

In less than a week, I made two sets of mango float.  The first was for Ate Amy, Ate Luz and her family which I made last Sunday, October 14, 2012.  And the second was just tonight.  I made for BobNewYork who arrived from New York City last Tuesday, October 16, 2012 to again visit Iligan.  I made him a promise that the next time he comes to Iligan I will make a mango float for him.  And good thing he arrived before Pat and I will leave for Manila. 

Mango Float ala Revilla :-)
Pat's favorite.  But, of course, he likes the one I make the most. :-D

Will be meeting Bob with the other IBS members tomorrow, October 19, 2012 at Jacko's Kan-anan.

Picture Perfect : Through A Lens, Clearly

As a frustrated (professional) photographer, I have dreamed of having a photo taken by me published in a magazine.  This was included  in the list of my "Things To Do Before I Die" which I wrote in 1998 and in 2001, hehehe...

This month, exactly on September 11, 2012.  I had this dream accomplished! Sort of, hehehe...

Some  years ago, I chanced upon a section of the Manila Bulletin.  Picture Perfect.  Where they feature photographers as well as photos by professionals and amateurs/hobbyists send by the readers.  I have collected some issues as I thought of one day seeing my pictures on it. hehehe... Then years, passed. I forgot about it. 

Last year, I again got the yearning to see one of my pictures in Manila Bulletin's Picture Perfect.  So, in October 2011, I made an inquiry to Ronald Jayme if a picture taken from a point-and-shoot camera is fine as an entry.  He then replied "Point and shoot is ok for as as long as you have a good capture, wala sa camera na."  I got so excited.  I thought of looking into my photos and check on which ones to send.  Then again, I forgot about it.  Actually, fear has let me forget about it. hehehe.. I was then too scared to even send a picture. 

But in August.  August 21, 2012, I finally got the guts to send not just one but three photos as my entry to Manila Bulletin's Picture Perfect.   :-)

My first picture :  Angry Sky 
Taken in November 2010 at Zamboanga City

Second picture :  Pensive Badjao Boy 
Taken in November 2010 in Zamboanga City

Third picture :  Sunset Walk
Taken in October 2011 during the Worldwide Photowalk in Iligan City

After sending my entries, I checked my emails everyday for 1 week for any reply from Picture Perfect.  But didn't get any.  I kind of got disappointed and thought maybe my entries where not good enough.  

But on the 10th day, August 31, 2012.  I unexpectedly got an email from Rafael Paredes.  I got a bit excited when I saw the subject of the email as "Picture Perfect".  :-)

When I opened the email this is what he wrote :

Hi Revilla.

The editor passed on your email to my column, Through A Lens, Clearly. Can you share if you are still a student or already employed? Also, how long have you been enjoying photography?

I will wait for your response.

best regards,

Raffy Paredes

I have to read it over and over again.  I don't know what to do.  I was like, does this mean my entry was accepted?  Even from the email, I still didn't know.  I probably got over excited, hehehe...I forwarded the email to Pat and asked him his comment.  He just told me to send a reply.  So, I replied and gave some information about me. 

Then again, I waited for another email from Raffy Paredes.  But got none for a few days.

And on September 6, 2012, I received one of the greatest news ever.   An email again, from Raffy Paredes.  And this is what it said :

I was reading it in the office.  And I couldn't contain myself.  I wanted to shout and jump for joy.  But I didn't.  I just sat there. Stared at my computer screen and read the email over and over again.  With my head screaming and my heart beating fast.   Then by coincidence, Pat called me.  I planned on surprising him of the good news.  However, due to over excitement, I told him.  hehehe... But then telling him was good as it also got the tension out of my body. hehe.. Pat and I then wondered which photo was selected. 

Since then, I couldn't wait for September 11 to arrive.

September 11, 2012.  At 10:00am I went to the News Stand  to buy the Manila Bulletin issue.  But couldn't find one.  They said it has not yet arrived.  Maybe at around 11:30am.  I went back to the office and asked my officemate to buy 2 copies for me before he returns to the office after lunch.  

At 12:30 pm, Pat called me.  And announced that he has already got a newspaper and seen my entry!  Waaaaaaaaahhhhhh!  Nauna siya nako! (He saw it first!).  He then told me which photo was published and read to me the write-up.  :-)


At around 1:30 in the afternoon, I finally got hold of the copy of Manila Bulletin.  And this is what I saw :

The Pensive Badjao Boy was featured!  Yeheyyyy!

I was so happy!  I immediately scanned the page and made the scanned copy my computer's wallpaper background. :-D


Pat suggested that I reserve a copy of the page and have it framed.  :-)

I know that my dream is to have a picture taken by me published in a magazine.  This is a newspaper.  But I don't mind.  For me, a published photo is a published photo.  And besides, Manila Bulletin is a nationwide newspaper.   And having accomplished this made me realized that :

1.  Conquering one's fear and taking action is the key factor in achieving your dream.  If I didn't submit an entry.  I will never know. Ever.
2.  Since one of my entries was featured, then now I know I have some talent in photography which I will have to further develop.  :-)
3.  This will not be my first and last entry to Picture Perfect.  I definitely will send another.  Next goal is : Photo of the Week.  :-D

4.  I will then submit an entry to a magazine. Starting with a national magazine. Pat suggested the Mabuhay magazine.  :-)


Well, that's it for now.

Another accomplishment for my 38th year here on Earth!  :-)

Play The Piano, Meet the Alaska Players

In the "Things To Do Before I Die" post I listed the things that I would want to do before I die which were written in 1998, 2001 and 2003.

Today, I am going to identify 4 things that I have already done since 1998.   

http://www.cooperpiano.com/piano-player-blog/?Tag=piano%20lessons

1.  Learn to play the piano and own one.   In November of 1998, I enrolled in Rosas Music Center to finally learn how to play the piano.  I would go to the music center once a week to learn Book 1.

When I was in Book 2, my teacher,  Ma'am Rose, offered me a brand new Yamaha organ to purchase and be paid in installment so I can practice at home.  It was an offer she gave only to me, hehehe...  So, I took it.

She was amazed at how good I am in memorizing the keys because after a few classes, I can already play a piece without looking at the keys.  I was already just looking at the notes. :-) 

However, I was already in the Book 3, in which after completing it, I'd be able to join the recital, when I decided to quit.  I didn't want to.  But I have to.  My family had a financial crisis and I became an instant breadwinner.   I have to sold my organ back to Rosas Music Center.

Until now though, I still have the urge to really learn to play the piano.  And be able to attend a recital. And play in front of a big crowd.  :-)

So, I could say,  this dream has yet partially came true, hehehe.  
      
2.  Learn to play the guitar and own one.  Got to own a guitar while I was studying to play the piano.  but unfortunately didn't get to learn to really play it.  Though I did some self-study a few times using the chords in the Song Hits magazine.  I tried to practice and play completely 1 song.  I just chose a song that have simple chords, hehehe... But then that's it.
 
3.  Ride the rollercoaster (big one).   I have ridden a roller coaster thrice.  So, I will be making a separate post for this.  :-D 


4.  Meet the Alaska players.   I am not really fond of basketball.  But my father is.  Very.  Both NBA and PBA.  So, I grew up watching some games.  On TV.  And live in person.  My father used to be a coach in our place.  :-)  I remember a story my mother told me when I got to see a basketball game for the first.  My father was a player in the company then.  My mother said that after watching the game for a minute, I told her that they should be given a ball each so they will not anymore fight over for one. :-D  You could say, this is my first impression of the basketball game, hehehe.

Johnny "The Flying A" Abarrientos
http://sydrified.blogspot.com/2010/
10/will-flying-migrate-to-alaska_14.html

I had the time of my life with PBA games in 1996.  It was the year that the Alaska Team made a grand slam - winning the 3 conferences for the year.  Everybody at home seemed to be glued to the tube with every game of Alaska.  I had no choice then but to also watch the game as they (and I) get excited, shouted, screamed.  And each of us also had our favorite players.  Mine was Johnny Abarrientos. I even took a photo of him, on TV, hehehe... He was sort of then my crush in PBA. :-)

As I am not really fond of basketball, I don't anymore remember why I wrote "Meet the Alaska players" as one of my things to do.  Probably because it was with them that for some moments I got excited to watch a PBA game.  And I think it was in October 1998 when I was able to see some of the Alaska players in person.  My officemates and I were attending a training in Manila then.  And on a weekend, we decided to watch a PBA game.  When we arrived, I got excited to learn that it was the Alaska playing.  Though I was not anymore interested in watching them play.  I just watched them.  And Johnny was there too.  I was not able to really talk to them but I was seated just a few seats above their bench.  And even though I was not anymore as excited as before, I regretted not having taken a photo of them playing in the court.  And a photo of me with them.  When I got back in the hotel, I realized I should have also let them sign the new baseball cap I just bought from Hard Rock Cafe.  I don't know why I forgot about it and regretted having not done so.  Maybe deep inside I was still really excited to finally see them in person -the very people I cheered on on TV.  And I was not able to think of the next thing to do.  Or the appropriate thing to do.  And it's already been 14 years since and I have not again met any of them.

So, this is it for now.  I'll be revealing more of the things that I have done from the list in my future posts. :-)

A Dream Come True!

It's 5:00 in the morning.  I have been awake since 4 am and I can't seemed to go back to sleep anymore.  So many things are on my mind.

So I thought, as I am already wide awake, might as well make use of the time and energy.  So here I am, writing a post.  As early as 5 o'clock in the morning.  For the first time since I started blogging. hehehe.... 

This post is about something that got me excited for about two weeks now.

August 2.  Barely a month after my 38th birthday, I got a surprise.

On August 2, Pat attended a meeting with the Department of Tourism in Cagayan de Oro City.  He arrived home around 11pm. We were about to sleep. Lights were out.  When suddenly, he remembered something that he was supposed to show me.  He took something from his bag.  And handed it to me. He said, "check that out".

So, I looked at it. It was the new brochure of the Northern Mindanao Department of Tourism.  Pat said he was given an advance copy of the brochure.  Because of something special. :-)

I browsed it.  I was looking for Iligan City.  And was happy to see my city included in the brochure.
Then Pat ask if I see something familiar.  I have to look at it about 2 times before I realized what he was talking about.

And when I saw it, my reaction was : "Haaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh!".

I got goosebumps.  Really.

Then I got excited.  Then I was like staring at it what feels like an hour (it's only really a minute, hehehe).  I couldn't believe what I am looking at.   I saw myself staring back at me!

It's like MY DREAM came true!  Well, at least one of my frustrations.  hehehe...

I am a self-confessed frustrated model.  I wrote one about it in my May 2011 post.   Check out my post My Modeling Stint in Germany.

This time.  It is a modeling stint in Iligan City. :-)

To give you an idea, below is a scanned copy of the portion of the brochure where my picture can be seen.

Can you recognize me?  hehehe

This picture was taken by Master George Tapan.  I cannot anymore remember when though. I think it's in 2008.  He was in Mindanao to take pictures that he wants to use for his proposed project.  And Iligan City was included in it.  I just actually tagged along with Pat.  I just wanted to see what happens during an actual photoshoot.  But at some point,  they lacked some models.  As I was already there, they decided to use me.  Hehehe... 

The project didn't pushthrough though.  ;-(

So, it was really such a surprise for me to see myself staring back at me in the brochure.  Up to now, I still cannot contain myself.  It sure is a dream come true.  ;-D

Now Open for Business :-D

I am supposed to write blogpost about the previous travels but I got busy the past few weeks.  It has been almost a month now since I last posted.

Have finally started my business! Just, one of my businesses, actually.  Hehehe.  Though just a small step yet.  I've always wanted to get into the food business yet I never got the  guts to start one. 

But. 

Last month, my friend, Jedy, who is into the food business, accepted my proposal for a consignment.  I'd prepare the food (snacks and desserts) and she sells them.  Since I still cannot have my own store, I want to try the consignment first.  And on Wednesday, July 25, Jedy asked if I could make a mango float for 30 persons which she will use the following day for an event.  Since it was such a short notice for me, I told her I'll try and text her if am able to make the mango floats. 

However, since it was my first time to prepare the mango float in individual packs (I usually prepare them in big containers, for family consumption), I miscalculated the ingredients.  So, I was not able to make 30 packs.  So, I texted Jedy I could not deliver her order. 

The following day, since the individually packed mango float is already there, I thought of doing an introductory selling of my mango float. Not much profit just so I'd get to introduce my mango float business. :-)  I brought some to my office to sell it to my office mates.  I was very happy to learn that they like my mango float!   My husband also brought a few pieces to his office.  And his office mates  also like the mango float!

Last Friday, August 10, I prepared another set of mango float.  However, Jedy's stall at night market will not be open on Saturday.  Pat thought of his friend Langging who owns a barbeque eatery near the public plaza.  He called her to arrange for a consignment.  And luckily, she agreed.  Yes!  

Hmmm... this could be a sign that I am on the right track.  :-)

So, why mango float? 

Well, mango float have been the favorite dessert I like to prepare at home.  Plus, I have always been frustrated with the mango float sold in restaurants/ cafes here in Iligan.  It is so commercialized, most of what you see and taste is the Graham crackers. 

Unfortunately, though, I forgot to take a photo of the mango float I prepared.  Next weekend, I will be preparing another set.  So, I'd make sure I will already have a photo of my mango float, hehehe...

A Jollibee Birthday

Last July 6, 2012 was my birthday.  I am now 38 years old.  So, how did I spend my special day?

For this year, I planned on going to the Home for Aged to celebrate my birthday there with the elderly. There are about 10 of them.  Lunch was what I had in mind.  I'd bring with me food that surely they've longed to eat.  I already set aside some money for it.  Of course, Pat will be with me.  I also thought I'd pass the dinner at my parents' house this time.  Instead, I'd let them join me have lunch at the Home for the Aged. That was my plan. :-)

But on June 23, 2012, my father had a stroke and was admitted to the hospital.  The money I have set aside for my birthday was spent for my father's recovery.

On a lighter note, I had a first for my birthday this year.

Pat and I had breakfast at Jollibee! hehehe... It was my very first birthday that I ate out for breakfast.

So, why did we eat out?

It was not really a planned romantic eat out.  We just woke up late and I have no time to cook for breakfast.  Hehehe.... Pat is going to the office and I will be going to Maria Cristina Hotel to attend the last day of a 3-day workshop.  :-)

And it's a good thing I remembered to take a photo of us just before we left Jollibee.  I was able to have a souvenir of my very first birthday breakfast. :-)

Then at past 5pm Pat and I met at Gaisano Mall to buy some stuff for my father and then went to 9r's to buy our dinner.  We spent our dinner with my family in Bayug so I could visit and check on my father's progress.  I didn't get any gifts on my birthday but what God gave me was the best gift I could have ever wanted on that day.  On my birthday, my father was already able to walk a few steps, 13 days after he had a stroke.  And last Saturday, July 14, he was already walking normally.  No more wheelchair moments. Hehehe... Thank you so much Lord.  :-)

My plan on treating the elderly at the Home for the Aged still holds.  I will start saving from my salary next month so I could have that birthday lunch at the Home for the Aged in September. :-D

Things To Do Before I Die

I'll be turning 38 this coming Friday.  38. Wow.  That's already a lot of years.  On my 38th year I'd like to make an inventory of what have I done with my life.  But first, I'd like to post the things that I want to do before I die, which I have 2 sets of, hehehe...  plus a list of my dreams.

(Image Source:  http://www.wildaboutmovies.com/movies/BucketListMovie-BucketListTrailer-RobReiner-JackNicholson-MorganFreeman.php)

Today, I'd like to write the 2 lists I have made.  My first ever list of Things To Do Before I Die (or my Bucket List) was written on August 8, 1998 at 6:10pm.  Wondered how I still remember the time and date? Well, I wrote it on a 1996 planner which my father didn't use so he gave it to me.  And I still have it after, like, 16 years? More than 16 years already... hehehe...It's a good thing I took it from my parent's house in Bayug last year and brought it here in Celdran, so it was spared from the TS Sendong flooding.  :-)

So, my 1998 Bucket List had the following to-do things :

1.  Learn to play the piano and own one
2.  Learn to play the guitar and own one
3.  Learn to roller skates and be able to do ice skating
4.  Ride the rollercoaster (big one)
5.  Be able to paint at least one painting in a canvass
6.  Own an SLR camera and handycam and publish at least one picture
7.  Manage my own (dream) business
8.  Learn how to swim
9.  Audition/ apply in a recording company and know if I have a talent in singing
10. Employ the less fortunate
11. Visit at least one castle in Europe
12. Visit Egypt and see pyramid
13. Go to Manila and visit significant places
14. Go to Vatican City
15. Be able to travel alone outside Iligan
16. Marry the right man at the right time and have a family to love and care for
17. Meet the Alaska players
18. Meet Lea Salonga
19. Visit Paris
20. Visit Disneyland
21. Be able to horseback ride
22. Do skiing, jet skiing
23. Ride a helicopter
24. Ride a plane
25. Go to a cruise with the man I love
26. Play tennis
27. Own a lot with vegetable garden and fruit trees
28. Own a house with a swing


And my second list I wrote on July 22, 2001 (I was not able to write the time though, hehehe)

1.  Own an SLR camera
2.  Own a videocam
3.  Publish at least one picture in a well-known magazine
4.  Complete tour of Disneyland, Florida,USA
5.  Ride a rollercoaster
6.  Learn how to rollerblades and ice skates
7.  Sing in an audience without mistake
8.  Go to Egypt and see the pyramid
9.  Go to Vatican City
10. Own a boarding house
11. Have a family with the right man
12. Go on a cruise with the man I love, my husband
13. Go on a horseback riding
14. Go on a go-cart racing
15. See and touch a dolphin or whale
16. Finish one cross-stitch
17. Ride and/ or drive a convertible sports car
18. Volunteer in a nursing home
19. Travel alone outside Iligan
20. Photograph a sunset
21. Learn to scuba dive
22. Watch a concert in Cebu
23. Have a child of my own
24. Watch the sunrise/ sunset with the man I love
25. Own a mountain bike
26. Own a 4-door pick-up truck
27. Have a house with a swing
28. Ride on a helicopter
29. Play tennis
30. See one broadway/ musical stage show
31. Go on a rafting
32. Learn to ski
33. Ride on a jet ski

And on December 27, 2001, I added one more thing that I'd like to do,

34.  Enroll in a dance class.  :-)

So, from these lists, which do you think have I done already?

Have I made come true as many things I want to do in the past 14 years?

Hmmm... I am going to answer that in another post. hehehe..

For my big dreams, based on my list, in 2001 I have wanted :

1. to own a restaurant that serves all kinds of dishes with chicken on it, hehehe... why chicken? I cannot anymore remember. :-)
2. to make souvenir items for Iligan City.
3. to own a boarding house and cafeteria.

In 2003, I added these :

4. To own an orphanage and home for the aged
5. To own internet cafe
6. To make handmade papers and its other products

Do these dreams of mine 11 and 9 years ago still hold true today? That, will be revealed in yet another post. hehehe  :-D

A STROKE of Luck

Friday.  June 22, 2012. 11:00 am.   My father was rushed to Mercy Hospital. He cannot move his left arm and leg.   Upon hearing the news, I immediately went to the hospital from the office.   When I arrived in the emergency room, my father looked ok and he was talking normally.  But he cannot still move the left part of his body and he said there is still numbness in his left arm, leg and face.  The doctor recommended a CT scan to check if his brain was not affected.

This is the very first time that something like this happened to my father.  And it is also his first time, in such a long time as far as he can remember (probably more than 30 years), to be admitted to the hospital.

We didn't know what my father's condition was until Saturday morning the following day when the doctor visited him.  The doctor said most of his test results were Ok except for the CT scan and his cholesterol level.  His bad cholesterol is a bit higher than the normal value.  And his CT scan displayed a blood clot in his brain.  The good news is, the blood clot was minimal so it can be treated with medications and no need for surgery.  Also, the bad cholesterol level can be reduced to normal by medication.  The doctor's only condition is that my father's blood pressure level should not anymore rise above normal.  Because of the recent blood clot, his blood pressure level must remain normal at all times to avoid the occurrence of another stroke. 

Today. June 27, 2012. 2:00pm.  My father was already discharged from the hospital.  He still has this tingling sensation in the left side of his body but he can already move his left arm and leg.  He can already sit down on his own.   When we were about to leave the hospital, my father was able to get inside the passenger vehicle from the wheelchair on his own.  As well as when we arrived home, he got off the vehicle and into the wheelchair on his own again.  We were there though watching him and being ready to catch him in case he would fall down.  His movements are still slow and shaky.   

I was really amazed at my father's will to get well as soon as he could.  Right after we wheeled him to his room last Friday, he already started teaching his left hand to move, starting with his fingers.  In just about 3 hours, he could already move his entire hand.  By Sunday, he could already touch his nose, with no fail.  This morning, he could already drink from a glass using his left hand. :-)

If only the physical therapist doctor visited him on Monday afternoon, he could have gone home yesterday, Tuesday.  But the doctor was able to visit him only yesterday, so he was discharged just today.  And what we found to be a bit funny was, the physical therapist doctor's advice as to what my father should do at home for him to recover fast, he was already doing since Friday (except for the sitting and standing as the other doctor won't let him yet).  Hence, his very fast recovery.   Just this afternoon, I asked him if he could already walk normally in two weeks.   And guess what his answer is?  He told me in a matter-of-fact way, "Less than two weeks".  I smiled.  That's the spirit.  :-D

With this new experience in my life, I have a few things to be thankful for.

1.  That, on the event last Friday, my sister decided not to go to the city center in the morning.  So, she and his boyfriend was at home when my father had the stroke.  If ever both of them were not around, I don't know how my mother could manage the situation.  She could not call for help as my father wouldn't let her leave his side and he is too heavy for her to carry outside the house.  They would both definitely be helpless.

2.  That the lavatory in the bathroom was still there.  For over a year already, I have been telling my mother to remove the damaged lavatory since it is already a bit unserviceable and is taking up space in the bathroom.   My father was taking a bath when the stroke happened.  When he sensed dizziness he leaned his hand on the wall but it slipped down into the lavatory.  When his hand gripped the lavatory which prevented him from falling down he then sat on the toilet bowl and that's when he realized he could no longer feel the lavatory he was holding. And he felt numbness all over his left body.

3.  That the emergency room of the Mercy Hospital was not busy.  My father was immediately taken cared of when he arrived at the emergency room.

4.  That our family already have new men members.  The presence of my two sisters' boyfriends and my husband, Pat, was really a great help. 

These are what I would call our four (4) STROKEs of Luck.  Though actually, it was meant to be. hehehe  :-D

And of course, I thank God for all his blessings as well as for the get-well-soon prayers said by friends and relatives.  

"There’s no quicker way for you to appreciate your life than when you come face to face with death. When you realize how thin the line that separates you from death, you will put more value on the things that matter — your family, your life purpose, your relationship to God."  
-Bo Sanchez's God Whispers

Swish Breath Spray

Last June 5, 2012, I got a package from Unilab through my friend.  Me and some of my friends participated in a product review conducted by Unilab.  

The product I am going to try is the Swiss Breath Spray.  This is going to be my first time to use a breath spray.  Though I have at times used mouthwash.  However, I only get to use the mouthwash at home.  The container is too bulky for me to carry around even the small bottle available.  And at times I find using a mouthwash outside from home a little inconvenient because I need to use a cup or glass and I need a place to spit the liquid.  And it will also be my first time to try the Swiss brand as I am using a different brand for my mouthwash.

What attracted me to do a product review of Swish Breath Spray is that it is alcohol-free and sugar-free as compared to the other brands.   Plus the fact that it is small so it is handy to carry with me anywhere and definitely convenient to use. 

There are two refreshing variants of Swiss Breath Spray - the Arctic Chill and the Peppermint Fresh.  I started to use it last Wednesday.  First I tried Peppermint Fresh.  An hour after lunch, I sprayed 2 pumps.  I like the feel of the peppermint on the mouth as well as the smell.  About 30 minutes after, I ate a pancake.  But my breath stayed fresh.  Then at dinner, Pat and I ate fish tinola (fish stew).  And I really don't like the after taste of tinola on my mouth, as well as the smell of my breath after eating one.  So, a few minutes after I finished eating, I sprayed 1 pump of the peppermint fresh.  And it certainly helped in removing some of the after taste and my breathe smelled better.  Hmm... next time I'll try 2 pumps.  It would probably have a better result than just 1 pump.

Since I don't smoke and Pat sometimes does, I asked him to also try the breath spray.  He brought with him the Arctic Chill.  After office hours, about 20 minutes before we met, he puffed a little cigarette (1/3 of the stick) and then sprayed 3 pumps of the Arctic Chill.  When we met though, I could still smell a bit of cigarette from his breath.  I am not sure though if the Arctic Chill was not that effective or I am just sensitive to the smell of cigarette smoke.  Actually, I am allergic to cigarette smoke, hehehe.   Anyway, so about 15 minutes later, I let him spray 1 pump while we waited for our dinner.  The cigarette smell on his breath was kind of overridden by the breath spray's smell. But only for about 10 minutes.

So the next day, I let him try the Peppermint Fresh.  Twenty minutes before going home, Pat puffed one cigarette then sprayed two pumps of the Peppermint Fresh variant.  When he got home, he let me smell his breath and oh, I can smell a little of the  cigarette.  Then  he sprayed again two pumps and I immediately smelled his breath.  Well, I could now smell the peppermint.  We waited for 5 minutes to check the smell.  Well, the cigarette smell returned.

Hmm.. maybe Pat could use the breath spray for emergency instant relief.  I prefer he use Peppermint Fresh.  I like its smell.  And for myself, I don't like the aftertaste of Arctic Chill.  So, I prefer to use the Peppermint Fresh.

Unilab also gave me 2 bottles of the Swiss mouthwash - 1 Peppermint Fresh and 1 Arctic Chill.    So, I got to try using the mouthwash.   Since I prefer the Peppermint Fresh variant, I tried it.  And yes, the alcohol-free was a big plus.  When I gargled the mouthwash, it didn't have much stingy sensation on the mouth as compared to the other brand.  So, I could gargle with it longer. 

In conclusion, I like the Peppermint Fresh better than the Arctic Chill.  For me, the peppermint fresh stays longer than the arctic chill.  But you may want to try it for yourself though.  Sometimes  the effect of these products depends from person to person. 

The Swiss Breath Spray is now available in supermarkets, drugstores and convenient stores nationwide.   Its suggested retail price is Php105.00.   The bottle is only 10 ml but could last for up to 100 pumps.  :-)

Am I In Charge?

Last May 31, 2012, I got my free book The Charge: Activating the 10 Human Drives that Make You Feel Alive by Brendon Burchard shipped to my house  straight from the USA. :-)

I was in the office when the book arrived and was received by my husband's niece at home.  She texted me that I have a package and it kind of looks like a book.  My first thought was, "yes! The Charge."  I was already eager to get home so I could check on the book.  Unfortunately, I arrived home late due to some appointments.  So, when I arrived home I checked the book and scanned through the pages.

The next day, I started reading the book.  From the Introduction including the message of Brendon "Out There".  Really.

I like how Brendon have written the book.  It is very simple.  Very straightforward.  Hits you where it needs to hit you.  :-)   Even for just the few pages that I have read.

Reading the Introduction page, I was like... yeah... yeah...yeah... And was like. Oh my God! It's like he knows me.  Like he can sense what I am feeling.  What I am thinking.  Well, because most of what he's talking about is what I have also experienced and some I am still experiencing. hehehe....

I am now halfway of Chapter 3.  And as what I have read so far, The Charge teaches you how to take charge of your life so you can be successful.  Living your life to the fullest.  Living your life the way you want it.

In Chapter 1, Brendon discussed about the 3 types of Life.  I never thought there is such a thing as 3 types of Life.  The 3 types of life are :

1. The Caged Life - a life when one lives either in the past or in the expectations of others.
2. The Comfortable Life -  when one is living a good life.  The house. The work. The family.  One is contented with the life he is living.  But then, when one thinks about it, something is missing.  Something is quite not right. 
3. The Charged Life - a life when one is in charge of his own life.  He takes action.  He makes meaning in his day to day activities.  His life is very colorful.  

And what I read gave me a realization that my life now is a mixture of the 3 lives.  I think I have 15% Caged Life, 15% Charged Life and 70% Comfortable Life.  I am, I would say, in my comfort zone now.  There are so many things I want to do with my life but somehow, getting out of the comfort zone just makes me feel... uhm.. uncomfortable. hehehe...  I always fear the unknown.  The, what-if-it-won't-work-what-will-happen kind of thing.   Getting married was probably, by far, the biggest decision I've ever made that got me out of my comfort zone 8 years ago.  But now, 8 years into the married life, I again feel the comfort zone settling in my life.    I am not talking about the marriage though.  I have a great marriage and I love my husband and being with him always brings joy to me.  What I am talking about is the other aspect of my life.  My dreams.  My ambitions that I want accomplished. 

So, am I in charge of my life now?  Not yet so.  As much as I wanted to.  But, I'll be getting there. I'll finish reading the book and read it all over again.  And follow as religiously as I can the steps in activating the 10 human drives, which is what the The Charge is all about.

PS.  Hmmm... Following the book would be a journey in itself that would transform my life into how I'd want it to be.  I'll probably make a series posts for this topic.  The lessons I learn from every chapter of the book and my experiences as I apply the lessons will be the content of my blogposts.  :-D

My First Photography 101 Seminar

I have been using cameras and taking photos for many years now.  I even created a photoblog last year.  But on May 11, 2012 was  my very first time to attend a Photography 101 seminar.   The Iligan Bloggers Society, Inc. organized a Photography 101 Seminar in celebration of IBS' first year anniversary and Iligan Bloggers Month in May this year.  The resource person was Bobby Timonera, an Iliganon photojournalist.

The seminar was only about four hours.  But, boy, I learned so much!   Bobby first showed us some pictures he has taken.  Then he talked about the 3 basic camera controls :  Focusing, Aperture and Shutter Speed.  He also discussed on ISO, exposure, exposure compensation,flash,histogram, and types of lenses.  What they are for and how to use them.  With each topic, we have a little hands-on photo shooting to see for ourselves what he was talking about.  

I was not able to concentrate much with the lecture though. I have to take photos for IBS' documentation of the event.  But still I got some advice from Sir Bobby that I will have to remember always.  These are :

1. When shooting at slow speeds, always use a tripod or other means of stable support to avoid blurry pictures.  I already have a tripod.  But at times I get lazy taking them with me on trips.  So when I am shooting and then needs the tripod, I don't have it, hehehe...
2. Do not use full manual mode in all your shooting activities for you will miss the subject or the moments you need to capture.  I sometimes use the Smart Auto in my camera settings whenever I need to take pictures fast during events. 
3. The key element in photography is good composition.  This is something I know I got.  Though I need to practice a lot to really develop it. 
4. To make ordinary subjects into extraordinary photos, explore other angles.   I have been trying to experiment on this. 
5. Learn the rules but don’t be afraid to break them when the situation calls for it.  I still have to really learn the rules, hehehe...
6. To get good pictures, move in close to the subject, except for wildlife.   This is my problem with taking photos in events.  I am naturally a shy person.  So, I still have to practice getting up close with the subjects. 
7. Capture “decisive moments”.  Yes, I like this so much.
8. Capture emotion.   This is what I like with portraits.  When one gets to put into the photo the feelings of the subjects at that moment.
9. Take lots and lots of pictures.  One of them is bound to be a perfect one. 
10. “A technically perfect picture with a fuzzy visual concept won’t cut it.” – Adam Ansel
11. A picture that tells a good story, even if technically flawed, is always better than a technically perfect but boring picture.   So true!
12. Shoot the event’s highlights but shoot the sidelights too and don’t forget to look for interesting details.  Yes, this is what I usually do when I document events.  And I also like taking candid shots.   The pictures themselves would tell a story on what happened during the event.
13. Experiment. Experiment.  There is no added cost in digital photography, just extra effort needed.
14. Read photo books.  Both instructional and story books. 

 Below are some of the photos I have taken during the seminar :

Mr. Bobby Timonera, the Master :-)

Taking a picture of subject against the light

Xy-Za of Purpleslipperz.com, our instant model since she doesn't have a new camera yet. Typhoon Sendong took her old one away from her.   

Outdoor photo shoot

My photo of Xy-Za with the blue cloudy sky

Macro shot in manual setting   :-)

My ID, hehehe

I took this photo outside the Bishop's House, near the gate, while we were waiting for a ride.

Sir Bobby said we have to practice everyday using our camera with the different settings so that we would know our camera well and we could take good pictures like a pro.  Hmmm.. it has been almost a month now, but I have not yet started practicing with my camera. Tsk tsk tsk...  :-(

In taking good pictures, it is not about the camera.  It is about the photographer.  No matter how hi-tech and expensive your camera is, if you don't know how to use it and you don't have the eye for art, your pictures would remain ordinary and boring.  :-D

Two Leaves. Two Lives

On December 13, 2003, when I have finally decided to accept the marriage proposal of Pat and set a date for the wedding, I wrote a letter that I plan to read during our wedding.  But somehow, I felt shy reading it in front of the witnesses in the church.  So, I just kept it to myself.  Today is May 18.  Eight years have passed since I walked down the aisle to say "I do". 

As Pat and I are now in our 8th year wedding anniversary, and more than 9 years of being together, I would like to take this opportunity to tell him (and the world!), how I felt that day when I finally decided to marry him.  Below is my letter to my husband, Pat, written more than 8 years ago.

Dearest Pat my Gen,

The day you came into my life, I thank God.  I thank Him for all the blessings He has given me. For providing me with all my needs.  And for not answering some of my prayers 'cause I know that He has something in mind.

Just when I was ready to accept the possibility that I may stay single for the rest of my life.  You came.  We got along so quickly.  And as the days passed, I know I finally said the right prayer.  

But doubts run in my mind everyday.  Fear of the future kept crossing my mind.  Worry took hold of my thinking to the point that it got me sick.   

But you were always there to reassure me.  I know I've been unfair to you and I am very sorry.  You've given up so much for me.  I just know God has answered my prayer. 

I am not sure what tomorrow brings.  I am not sure what our future will be.  I am not sure what God planned for us.  But one thing I am sure of.  If I am not going to give this a chance.  If I am not going to give you and me a chance.  If I am not going to give our love a chance.  I'm sure, I am going to regret it for the rest of my life. 

http://yaymicro.com/stock-image/dry-leaves-background/42459

For when I see us, 
     I see two leaves from two different trees, 
          yet somehow, the edges fit together like pieces in the puzzle.

When I see us, 
      I see peace...  as I am at peace with you.

When I see us, 
      I see love ...  the love that you freely give me.

When I see us, 
      I see forever....  because I want to be with you forever.

If there is someone that I'd want to grow old with, I want him to be you.

I love you.
        
                                                       Binky, your Baks   :-)

Happy anniversary to my one and only love of my life.  my only gen.  my only pat.  I love you very much. muah!   I look forward to more years with you.    :-)

Naturally Human Nature

Few years ago, I read about an ingredient in shampoos and soaps that is harmful to the human body.  This ingredient, sodium lauryl sulfate, makes the lather in shampoos and soaps.  Since that time, I tried finding other shampoos that does not have this ingredient.  Unfortunately, all of the shampoos I've looked into have it.

But last year, I was introduced to  a company that manufactures natural/ organic beauty products.  During the Mindanao Bloggers Summit 2012, one of the speakers, Ms. Anna Oposa, talked about her being an ambassador of the Human Heart Nature company, being an advocate for sustainable lifestyle.  So, when I got home, I checked the website of Human Heart Nature. 

After reading their profile, I fell in love with the company.   :-)

So, I ordered one shampoo and body wash (2-in-1 kind of shampoo).  Just to try how their product works on me.   I was satisfied with the shampoo.  As well as with the body wash.  So, I ordered other products - conditioner, another kind of shampoo, toner and lip balm.  I now use the shampoo and body wash as a body wash only, hehehe.   I am not the type who wears lipstick or even lip gloss or lip balm because it dries my lips.  So ironic, isn't it?  So, I don't really use them, unless necessary.  But when I tried the Human Nature's lip balm, I was really amazed that it didn't dry my lips.  By the way, I ordered the Choco Fudge flavor, hehehe.  And with the Human Nature toner, my face don't anymore feel itchy. 

 The first bottle I ordered has the rosemary scent.  I like the peppermint better.

 I also tried their moisturizing shampoo (no body wash).  I like this better than the strengthening shampoo. :-)  

 I have finally found the toner that really suits the skin on my face.  After using it for a few weeks, one time I intentionally did not put toner on my face.  Just to check its effect.  I was amazed to know that without the toner, my face didn't feel itchy.  Unlike the Eskinol toner that I have been using before.   So, I will have to stick to this one.  Love it!

The choco fudge lip balm.  I like it better than the other lip balms or lip gloss I've used before.  With the other lip balms, my lips would get dry and flaky and to the point that my skin would peel.  Which is painful.  With this one, it doesn't anymore. 

This is the box that contained my orders.  :-)

Now, I have four reasons to like Human Nature products and to continue using them.   

1.  Pro-Philippines -  as much as possible, they see to it that the raw materials they use for their products are or can be produced in the Philippines.  So, they don't anymore have to import them.  This is helping the Philippine economy.

2.   Pro-Poor   -  they prioritize in employing those in the Gawad Kalinga villages.   They help generate employment in the Philippines.

3.   Pro-Environment   -  since their products are all natural, it doesn't harm the environment.  

4.   I am satisfied with the products that I have used so far.   By using natural products, I am able to lessen body contact with harmful chemicals.   This is my way of helping the environment.  Another one of my take on sustainable lifestyle.  :-D

I again made another order just this week. I will be receiving it tomorrow.  I am going to try their other products like the lotion, deodorant, facial wash and shaving oil (for my husband, hehe).   :-)