Valentines

Two days ago it was Valentines Day. I grew up knowing that it was a day to spend a romantic date with someone. No, it all began with the legend of St. Valentine as most people do not know.

St. Valentine was a martyr  for realizing the injustice for performing marriages of young soldiers. During the third century in Rome, it was the emperor who decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families. The emperor outlawed marriage for young men at that time. St. Valentine was put to death for continuing to perform marriage for young men in secret. Others believe that in the middle of February we should commemorate the death anniversary of St. Valentine. The rest was history as they say.

You may read on the legend and history of Valentines Day in the URL here.

Talking about the occasion, let us remind ourselves of how love is being defined in the Christian Bible.
1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (NIV)
" 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
 8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. "

The perfect example of this love is being displayed on the cross.

On a personal note, while I spent the evening just with my family, it was a surprise that I was able to receive some bouquets on Valentines. I received them sent to the office from some friends. Thank you. I didn't get to thank the first one who sent me the day before Valentines. It's because I still don't know who sent it to me. It's got a note but no sender's name.

P.S 

Others may find it amusing. Well, I admit, at first. But Nah, I was too shy to bring it with me... :)

My greetings of Happy Valentines to everyone!

New

Last Monday, our team moved to a different location. This is the first time I transferred to a new workstation since I started working with IBM last 2009. I was excited of the new arrangement for the team. Though I still have the same seatmates. =) I am seated with my closest friends this time. Spending a few minutes of good laugh is always great before I end a day at work.

I'm expecting a lot of changes especially with the NEW people in the team. I am only hoping for positive changes in that case though. I guess it's normal to feel like work seems to be an everyday routine. I am just one of the many employees who would feel likewise. Good thing, one of my new year's wishes came true I realize. It's to handle more tasks this year.

First month of 2012 just ended, it went by so fast maybe because I'm also busy at work. More task entails more responsibilities and challenges. It goes hand in hand. I'm aware of this.

So far so good with this new location. New corridors and doors to pass through, new faces to see and new pantry to hang around. I'm seeing some good friends everywhere. It feels so good to be greeted "Hi" "Hello" of some people you know. :) I'm also looking forward to meet new friends in the area.

P.S
I still have my daily brewed coffee in the office to start my work, Of course.
As I informed Kuya Rick from the Security Team we'll be transferring, he told me he'll miss me. If I know, the reason for this is because I laugh at every joke he would tell me. HAHA

Today, a friend of mine told me she won't forget the way I mentioned "I'm too old to lie." It sounded a little funny. I know. I did not mean to be funny. I tend to look and sound funny sometimes though I'm serious. I said it a long time ago.

I can still remember how I said that. As I'm sharing a story, others were giving their opinion then it was my turn. My exact words were "matanda na ako para magsinungaling". True, I'm 24 as of today. I'm not getting any younger. This friend of mine told me she can't forget my words and it stuck on her.

I'm glad. :) It inspired her in a way that she can also be honest. Sometimes, we think that the easiest way to somehow not create a problem is to lie. Truth is, we hurt the other person MORE. When we lie, we deceive. We conceal the truth. We all know that eventually, the truth will come out. One of my friends said "The truth will set you free". I guess even when it hurts.

This entry of mine is not to brag that lying is bad. (though we know that it is) I'm glad that no one has ever lied to me of something that I can't even forgive. I appreciate honesty more than anything else. :)

I'm also sending across a message to a grandmother. Who, in her age, I pray that she'd do the right thing by being an example to her children. It's not yet too late.

I only hope that when the time comes she won't regret. I always think that there is no such thing as flashbacks in life unlike what we see in movies.

Goodbye 2011, Hello 2012!

Few hours from now, 2011 will be coming at a close. People will be out in the streets watching fireworks. Some will have their own. Others will just watch fireworks display by their television.

In preparing for how we're going to celebrate the New Year's Eve I can't help but wonder what will be in store for me in the coming year. For sure, it won't be easy. I can only wish that I may endure every challenge that I will face. Each year is always tougher than the previous one. Looking back, I have a lot to be thankful for this year. I have always been blessed. I don't mean with material things but with a peaceful heart. Sure I met some rough times, but I think that it's a part of life, and it doesn't stop us from knowing God even more.

I read a quote and it says, "What you invest your time in defines who you are". I always think that time doesn't stop at us. It will keep on running.  I cannot look back and say I wasted time doing nothing. Let's say one year or two years. Twelve months is a long time. If we don't spend it wisely we could be aging at nothing. I always think that time spent on something cannot be taken back.

I won't wish for anything more in 2012. I can only pray that I would have the strength at every struggle. I pray for excellence at work this coming year. I pray that God would keep me strong physically and emotionally. Also, that my loved ones would remain healthy (literally) may they be free from any kind of serious illness.

P.S

HAPPY 2012 everyone! Another year has passed. Let's CHERISH each moment. Spend it WISELY =) Don't forget to thank the One who gave your blessings to you. =)

TYL<3

Q&A

I googled for some questions to answer just to kill time. Here's what I got.
FYI, this entry of mine is a bit serious. The questions got me taking it very seriously. =)



How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are? 

• I would like to be 16. I remember a quote that said, treat your girl like she's 16. She's not too young to play around her feelings at the same time she's not that mature.

Which is worse, failing or never trying? 

• For me, never trying is worse

If life is so short, why do we do so many things we don’t like and like so many things we don’t do?

•  I think life gets so ironic at times that we always chase for something we don’t have. I guess people should learn how to be satisfied.

When it’s all said and done, will you have said more than you’ve done? 

• No. I don’t usually talk more than what I really mean or what I can do.

What is the one thing you’d most like to change about the world? 

• The world cares too much about being beautiful and getting rich. Life is not about these things.

If happiness was the national currency, what kind of work would make you rich?

•  I would be an artist and a photographer.

Are you doing what you believe in, or are you settling for what you are doing? 

• 70% doing what I believe in, 30% settling for what I am doing

If the average human life span was 40 years, how would you live your life differently?

•  I don't think I will change how I live my life now.

Are you more worried about doing things right, or doing the right things? 

• I am more worried about doing the right things.

You’re having lunch with three people you respect and admire.  They all start criticizing a close friend of yours, not knowing she is your friend.  The criticism is distasteful and unjustified.  What do you do?

•  I would tell them right away that I know the person and he/she is a friend of mine.

If you could offer a newborn child only one piece of advice, what would it be? 

• Never give up your values when you grow up.

Would you break the law to save a loved one? 

• I don’t think I can do that.

What’s something you know you do differently than most people?

• Sometimes I enjoy spending time alone.

How come the things that make you happy don’t make everyone happy?

•  It’s because I am easily pleased. I find even the smallest gesture or corniest joke to be funny.

What is one thing have you not done that you really want to do and what’s holding you back? 

• I think I'm just waiting for the right time.

Are you holding onto something you need to let go of? 

• I’m not really the person who holds back.

If you had to move to a state or country besides the one you currently live in, where would you move and why? 

• I have yet to find out where that would be. I would like to think Australia.

Do you push the elevator button more than once?  Do you really believe it makes the elevator faster? 

• No, I don’t push the button more than once.

Would you rather be a worried genius or a joyful simpleton? 

• This is easy. A JOYFUL simpleton.

Which is worse, when a good friend moves away, or losing touch with a good friend who lives right near you? 

• Losing touch with a good friend who lives right near me is worse. I have to get used to not being with her.

What are you most grateful for?

•  I am grateful for my life, job and the people (family and friends) I spend time with.

Would you rather lose all of your old memories, or never be able to make new ones? 

• I would rather lose all my old memories than never to make new ones.

Has your greatest fear ever come true? 

• I only wish it won’t happen.

Do you remember that time 5 years ago when you were extremely upset? Does it really matter now?

•  I felt extremely bad about someone and it doesn't really matter to me now. We became friends again.

What is your happiest childhood memory?  What makes it so special? 

• My 7th birthday party at McDonald’s. I was so happy to play parlor games with my classmates - relay, longest line, trip to jerusalem, etc.

At what time in your recent past have you felt most passionate and alive? 

• I am glad to make someone happy by preparing something special as a gift.

Have you ever been with someone, said nothing, and walked away feeling like you just had the best conversation ever? 

• Yes, sometimes just being with someone can make you feel that way.

Why do religions that support love cause so many wars? 

• Love could mean different things in different religions. For me, there is only one true meaning of love. It’s God’s love on the cross.

Is it possible to know, without a doubt, what is good and what is evil? 

• There’s a huge difference between the two.

If you just won a million dollars, would you quit your job? 

• I would like to think that I wouldn't quit my job because I am really glad to be a part of our team. Even so, thinking about having a million dollars in comparison to what I am earning, then maybe I would. :)

Would you rather have less work to do, or more work you actually enjoy doing? 

• I would rather have more work that I enjoy doing.

Do you feel like you’ve lived this day a hundred times before?

•  No, I used to think that each day is a chance for new experiences.

If you knew that everyone you know was going to die tomorrow, who would you visit today? 

• Two people come to mind

Would you be willing to reduce your life expectancy by 10 years to become extremely attractive or famous?

•  Of course not.

What is the difference between being alive and truly living? 

• Being alive could mean just letting your life pass you by while truly living is making each day count as if you know you’ll die any minute.

When is it time to stop calculating risk and rewards, and just go ahead and do what you know is right?

•  Each day is always a chance to do what is right.

If we learn from our mistakes, why are we always so afraid to make a mistake?

•  Sometimes we tend to hurt people along the way. It’s not something we can just undo.

When was the last time you noticed the sound of your own breathing? 

• Less than an hour ago

In 5 years from now, will you remember what you did yesterday? What about the day before that?  Or the day before that? 

• I probably won’t. I tend to remember only significant events.

Decisions are being made right now.  The question is:  Are you making them for yourself, or are you letting others make them for you?

•  90% myself 10% others

Have you been the kind of friend you want as a friend? 

• I'd like to think so, most especially the funny person that I am.

Why are you, you? 

• I used to ask the same question, but I came to think that there is only one “me” in this world. I am NOT the average girl you may know. I don't have the interests of a typical girl like shopping for clothes or make-up. I don't have the usual traits too - being talkative or moody. Though, a close friend of mine thinks that I am tough to handle. Maybe, she's right.

Gabe Bondoc

A YouTube star is on the rise! Gabe Bondoc started his music career by uploading his videos on YouTube. Now, he's slowly making his way in the music scene by recording his compositions and covers of different artists. 

I became a fan ever since I watched his version of Forever by Chris Brown back in year 2008. I learned that he's also a Filipino (and he's proud to be one) who is living in California, USA. He plays the guitar (including the ukulele) and his influences include John Mayer and Jason Mraz. 

It amazes me to think that Filipinos are truly talented. It makes me proud! I know Gabe will be one of the many well-known Filipino artists all over the world. As someone who appreciates acoustic/jazz/pop type of music, I think Gabe just found the right genre. 

I'd like to share one of the newest uploads of Gabe and this is currently my favorite. I never stopped watching this video on my ipod since I first watched it last weekend. 

I hope you'd also ENJOY! =)

P.S

You can visit the following links for more of Gabe Bondoc.

http://youtube.com/gabebondoc

http://gabebondoc.com

NOVEMBERBASH – 11/11/11

My birthday month this year was a blast. Thank you, Lord for all the blessings and back-to-back celebrations. As I have said, my HEART was overwhelmed. <3

I’d like to start by thanking my family and friends who greeted me a Happy Birthday when it hits 11-11-11. Some of my close friends expressed their love with little surprises. Thank you!

In celebration for my birthday, I went on a 4 days 3 nights vacation in Palawan with two of my closest friends in the office.  They were so excited to ride the plane for the first time and I wanted to do something different since I am celebrating my 24^th birthday with a special date, which is 11-11-11.

Our flight going to Puerto Princesa was at 7:30 AM on November 17, Thursday. We were blessed with a bright weather that day. We arrived on time in Palawan and were picked up at the airport going to Casa Fuerte Bed and Breakfast where we stayed. It was just few minutes away from the airport and it’s also one of the newest hotels in place. We were given welcome drinks at the registration area while waiting for check in time.

For Day 1, we went on a half day City Tour. We visited Baker’s Hill, Mitra’s Road, Crocodile Farm, Binuatan Weaving Shop, Puerto Princesa Baywalk and Immaculate Church to name of few of the destinations.  We also went to buy souvenirs on the first day. I have learned that pearl as jewelry is famous in Puerto as it were original South China Sea pearls. In Baker’s Hill, I have tasted the yummiest hopia when we tried the Ube Hopia. I learned that it’s also a must-try. 

For dinner, we went to Kinabuch’s Grill and Restaurant. I noticed a lot of tourists having their dinner. Also, we had a chance to eat the Tamilok (shipworm). It’s a delicacy prepared as kinilaw (eaten raw).  Only, we ordered the breaded version. ;) It looked like calamares in the photo.

In Crocodile Farm, we were asked to have pictures taken with a baby crocodile. I’m too scared to wrap it around me. I just touched the crocodile and it felt cold and slippery. Also, they are serving crocodile sisig which we didn't have the chance to taste. We are given limited time to visit the next stop.

For Day 2, we are scheduled to visit Ugong Rock. We went caving/spelunking and zipline by the end going back. Caving is harder than I thought. For me, it’s 2 times trekking! I remembered the movie 127 Hours. It's truly amazing how the rocks were able to form the way they appear. We had buffet lunch by the Sabang beach afterwards. 

Then, it’s time for the Underground River tour. I was looking forward to this tour as it was a recent entry to the New 7 Wonders.  I enjoyed the 45-minute river tour not only because it’s so beautiful inside but also because I had a good laugh listening to the boat man’s stories. If you know me I can laugh at any joke even the corniest. I didn’t know the tour would be so funny! It was hard laughing with my mouth covered. Why I had to cover? Visit the place! :P

We had dinner at Bilao't Palayok that night since we couldn't get reserved seats at Kahlui's. The place was beautiful though. It has a "romantic" ambiance. It's well-lighted just for a sweet dinner. :) I hope to find a place like it here in Manila. There was a long pond near the entrance. I also noticed small nipa huts along the side for couples. Too bad, I wasn't able to take a photo of the place with my camera. My battery got exhausted. They served good Filipino food there, by the way.

For Day 3, it was Dos Palmas Day Tour. Our most awaited tour. By the time our ferry reached the island, we are welcomed with kulintang-playing crew and drinks. I felt like a special guest just like in the movies! Our first activity is snorkeling. Fishes were all over me. I was overwhelmed by their beauty, colors and SIZES! Our guide says “only in Dos Palmas!”.  I remember the time I went scuba diving at 35 feet while  at 10 feet I can see/touch all those fishes.  After the activity, we had buffet lunch. Dos Palmas served a shrimp meal which we really enjoyed! Then, we went kayaking. Funny part, I laughed when the guide said "ang bigat mo pala maam". He was slowly pushing me to the water so I can start. I can't stop laughing while doing the kayak!  We spent our last night at Balinsasayaw restaurant where I also ordered FRESH buko juice along with my chicken inasal.

For Day 4 - November 20, our flight back home was at 9:10 AM. We were saddened of coming back to work the next day from a fantastic vacation. It was a fun-filled vacation at Palawan! Thank you Lord, we arrived at the NAIA 3 safely. =)

P.S

Puerto Princesa is truly a beauty of its own. Good job Mr. Hagedorn! We came across different people along our vacation. Some were natives, some tourists like us. They were all so nice to us. Not to mention the people who volunteered to take photos for us. We are looking forward for our next trip. THANK YOU PUERTO PRINCESA!

Celebrity Look A Like :)

A friend from the office submitted a photo for the IBM Celebrity Look A Like contest. The top 3 contestants will receive a prize. Submission of entries ended November 5. This was submitted last friday. 

I wonder if this entry will gather votes Haha! For the fun of it, why not participate? =)


Please let me know what you guys think. =) Feel free to comment!

Bon Chon

Bon Chon Libis

Chicken never tasted so sweet and crunchy until BonChon arrrived!

Finally, (for the first time again) I tried BonChon Chicken for lunch out friday. Too bad, I had a heavy breakfast that morning I had a hard time finishing my rice. On my plate, I had three pieces of chicken which I finished. I ordered wings because I like doing simot every time I eat chicken. :)

FYI

Bonchon Chicken is a South Korean-based fried chicken franchise restaurant. In addition to locations in South Korea, there are also several Bonchon Chicken locations within the United States. Korean fried chicken differs from typical American fried chicken by being fried twice. This results in the skin being crunchier and less greasy, furthermore Korean-style chicken is not characterized by the crags and crusty nubs associated with American fried chicken.

Bonchon Chicken patrons can choose to have their chicken with either a hot sauce or a garlic soy sauce. Bonchon Chicken is served with complimentary pickled radish.

http://www.bonchon.com/

QQ Brilliant Fruit Tea

QQ Brilliant Fruit Tea from Happy Lemon

Happy Lemon released NEW flavors recently. I tried QQ Brilliant Fruit Tea yesterday as one of the new "recommended" drinks. I have been trying different flavors just to try something different each time.

It introduced a kind of fruit tea with bits of nata de coco and slices of apples and oranges. The tea has its bitter sweet taste mixed with fruits that emits the sweet smell.

I liked the flavor! I have been smiling the whole time I'm having the drink. A friend of mine even approached me and said "Wow! you're so happy with Happy Lemon!"

I can't help but laugh. =D


P.S
I don't guarantee the same feeling you'll experience when you taste this. My friends say I have weird taste buds though. Maybe, you should risk it for yourself. =P


To check on the official site and more flavors from Happy Lemon, please visit the link here.