I am Super Leah.

Answers

2012-02-11T13:08:00.000+08:00

Answering riddles is fun, indeed! I had a great time reading and reviewing your comments yesterday. Thank you very much for participating. Here are the answers to yesterday's riddles.

Riddle #1

Mary's father has 4 children; three are named Nana, Nene, and Nini. So what is is the 4th child's name?

Answer: Mary

Riddle #2

A man has to get a fox, a chicken, and a sack of corn across a river. He has a rowboat, and it can only carry him and one other thing. If the fox and the chicken are left together, the fox will eat the chicken. If the chicken and the corn are left together, the chicken will eat the corn. How does the man do it?

Answer:

The man carries the chicken to the other side.

The man returns alone and gets the fox to the other side.

The man leaves the fox but returns with the chicken.

The man leaves the chicken and gets to the other side with the corn.

The man leaves the corn with the fox and returns alone.

The man gets the chicken and takes it to the other side.

Riddle #3

Suppose there is only one barber shop in your town, and it employs two barbers. One of the barbers has a nice, neatly trimmed head of hair. The other's hair is a complete mess. You can't go outside of town to get a haircut from any other barber. Which of the two barbers should you go to and why?

Answer:

Since there are only two barbers in town, it is safe to assume that they cut each other's hair. This being the case, you sit down with the barber with the messy hair.

..........

Riddles

2012-02-10T17:30:00.000+08:00

Let us have a brain-teaser. A riddle game. Everybody loves answering riddles. Its fun! I have 3 riddles here. Try to solve all the riddles. I will provide you with the answers on my next post. Are you game?

Riddle #1

Mary's father has 4 children; three are named Nana, Nene, and Nini. So what is is the 4th child's name?

Riddle #2

Riddle #3

Black March

2012-02-09T00:44:00.000+08:00

Black March

March 1 - 31, 2012

With the continuing campaigns for Internet-censoring litigation such as SOPA and PIPA, and the closure of sites such as Megaupload under allegations of'piracy' and 'conspiracy' the time has come to take a stand against music, film and media companies' lobbyists.

The only way is to hit them where it truly hurts.. Their profit margins.

March 2012 is the end of the 1st quarter in economic reports worldwide.

Do not buy a single record. Do not download a single song, legally or illegally. Do not go to see a single film in cinemas, or download a copy, Do not buy a DVD in the stores. Do not buy a video game. Do not buy a single book or Magazine.

Wait the 4 weeks to buy them in April: see the film later, etc. Holding out for just 4 weeks, maximum, will leave a gaping hole in media and entertainment companies' profits for the 1st quarter, an economic hit which will in turn be observed by governments worldwide as stocks and shares will blip from a large enough loss of incomes. This action can give a statement of intent:

''WE WILL NOT TOLERATE THE MEDIA INDUSTRIES' LOBBYING FOR LEGISLATION WHICH WILL CENSOR THE INTERNET.''

Black March 2012

Some people say that this only works in theory but not in practice. They say that this operation to boycott the music, film and print media industries on March is futile, considering how huge the impact of these industries are on our daily lives. I see their point. Simply put.. You can't download apps for your gadgets. You can't download movies on the web or even watch them on theaters. You can't download songs, old or new. One month without these - It will be very difficult to accomplish. Difficult, but not impossible.

I'm willing to give this a shot. Besides, this will give me the chance to watch the old movies I've collected from highschool. I could organize my playlists and listen to the songs I haven't heard for a month or so, open some books that I've been too lazy to read, and start a new game on my brothers' game consoles.

A month of no downloading anything on the internet or buying of books, games, music and movies.. I can do that. Joining this campaign is a matter of choice. I will join the Black March. The question is.. Will you?

..........

Teddy, The Hero!

2012-02-07T15:19:00.000+08:00

So this is why I used to find some mysterious green goo (monster blood) on my sheets when I wake up in the morning.☺

..........

Visayas Earthquakes

2012-02-07T00:40:00.000+08:00

The Negros islands and Cebu (and some major cities in the Visayas region, central Philippines) experienced a magnitude 6.7 earthquake this morning (February 6, 2012, 11:49 AM, local time PHL), and several more aftershocks in the afternoon.

I live in Iloilo City (which is about 94 miles away from Cebu City), and we also felt the earth shake under our feet. It was scary. But thinking back, when the main shock happened, the first thought that came to mind was "My dogs! I've got to make sure they're okay!"

I remember.. The earth was shaking, and instead of looking for safety or dropping to the ground and taking cover under a sturdy table or something, I hastily ran inside my room, led my two dogs to a safe spot in the backyard before running for cover myself. Apparently, I consider my dogs' lives to be way more important than my own. :p

Oh, well. Thank goodness, no one I know got hurt.

However, I've heard that this earthquake have caused landslides, extensive damages to properties and have taken lives, as well. Terrible news.

...........

The Window

2012-02-06T13:42:00.000+08:00

The Window

Two men, both seriously ill, occupied the same hospital room. One man was allowed to sit up in his bed for an hour a day to drain the fluids from his lungs. His bed was next to the room's only window. The other man had to spend all his time flat on his back.

The men talked for hours on end. They spoke of their wives and families, their homes, their jobs, their involvement in the military service, where they had been on vacation. And every afternoon when the man in the bed next to the window could sit up, he would pass the time by describing to his roommate all the things he could see outside the window.

The man in the other bed would live for those one-hour periods where his world would be broadened and enlivened by all the activity and color of the outside world. "The window overlooked a park with a lovely lake", the man had said. Ducks and swans played on the water while children sailed their model boats. Lovers walked arm in arm amid flowers of every color of the rainbow. Grand old trees graced the landscape, and a fine view of the city skyline could be seen in the distance.

As the man by the window described all this in exquisite detail, the man on the other side of the room would close his eyes and imagine the picturesque scene.

One warm afternoon the man by the window described a parade passing by. Although the other man could not hear the band, he could see it in his mind's eye as the gentleman by the window portrayed it with descriptive words. Unexpectedly, an alien thought entered his head: Why should hehave all the pleasure of seeing everything while I never get to see anything? It didn't seem fair. As the thought fermented, the man felt ashamed at first. But as the days passed and he missed seeing more sights, his envy eroded into resentment and soon turned him sour. He began to brood and found himself unable to sleep. He should be by that window - and that thought now controlled his life.

Late one night, as he lay staring at the ceiling, the man by the window began to cough. He was choking on the fluid in his lungs. The other man watched in the dimly lit room as the struggling man by the window groped for the button to call for help. Listening from across the room, he never moved, never pushed his own button which would have brought the nurse running. In less than five minutes, the coughing and choking stopped, along with the sound of breathing. Now, there was only silence... deathly silence.

The following morning, the day nurse arrived to bring water for their baths. When she found the lifeless body of the man by the window, she was saddened and called the hospital attendant to take the body away.. no words, no fuss. As soon as it seemed appropriate, the man asked if he could be moved next to the window. The nurse was happy to make the switch and after making sure he was comfortable, she left him alone.

Slowly, painfully, he propped himself up on one elbow to take his first look. Finally, he would have the joy of seeing it all himself. He strained to slowly turn to look out the window beside the bed. It faced a blank wall.

- Author unknown

Moral of the story:

The pursuit of happiness is a matter of choice It is a positive attitude we consciously choose to express. We may not see, hear or own everything, but it is our choice to be happy. Life is indeed beautiful and there is much to rejoice about. The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.

Source: Inspiring Stories

Simon's Cat

2012-02-05T11:39:00.000+08:00

If you like cats and cartoons, you'll definitely love this.. Simon's Cat. It's a collection of cat films, hand-drawn by Simon Tofield, and are animated using Adobe Flash software.

Watch these funny videos of Simon's Cat. ☺

Website: Simon's Cat

Youtube (Main channel): Simon's Cat

Youtube (Extra): Simon's Cat Extra

Facebook: Simon's Cat

Twitter: @SimonsCat
☺

Camouflage

2012-02-03T16:16:00.000+08:00

Camouflage is a method of concealment that allows an otherwise visible animal, military vehicle, or other object to remain unnoticed by blending with its environment. Examples include a leopard's spotted coat, the battledress of a modern soldier and a leaf-mimic butterfly. Camouflage is a form of visual deception. - Wikipedia

Many animals use their power of camouflage to blend in with the environment in order to catch prey, to attract the opposite sex or to hide from predators. I googled some pictures and found some great photos of animals blending in with their surroundings.

Pretty cool, right? Let us have a little test, shall we? Find the animals in all of the pictures I've posted. Go on. Find them. ☺

Did you find them?

*Pictures from Google

Things I'm Scared Of

2012-02-01T18:17:00.000+08:00

A long time ago, there was this little girl who was afraid of clowns, thunderstorms, big hairy spiders, snakes, sharks, toilets, dentists, blood.. She overcame her fear of toilets and clowns, but she's still scared of thunderstorms. She's still afraid of big spiders, snakes and sharks.She still feels nauseated at the sight of blood. She's still afraid of dentists! Which is pathetic, çoz we all know that dentists don't do anything but help her take care of her pearly whites.

That little girl is me.

I don't like being left alone in the dark. I used to think that there are monsters everywhere. In my closet. Under the bed. In every dark corner of my room. That's why I had the night light on, every night. Mom told me that the night light creates a magical shield and that it'll protect me from monsters. I believed my mom, of course. Kids can be so naive, can't they?

Now that I've grown up, I know there are no monsters in my room. But I still sleep with the night light on. I'm afraid of total darkness. I feel like I can't breathe. Imagine a world without light.. pretty scary, right? Which is why I applaud all the blind people who don't give up on life. It must be very hard, not being able to see the beauty of the earth, but they continue to hope and live their lives. A million courage points for them!

I also don't like being home alone at night. I believe in ghosts, i think.. in the paranormal. Eerie sounds and ghost-like figures could easily freak me out, especially if they come from outside my bedroom window. Eeek!

I also don't want to watch those "there's-blood-everywhere-I-think-I'm-gonna-puke-too-much-gore" horror and slasher movies. No offense to you who love watching these kind of films, but dang, how do keep a straight face while watching those?

Okay, I've watched animated horror movies like The Nightmare Before Christmas, Corpse Bride, Igor and Monster House. But they're animated films and that make them less scary. A contradiction, I know. And another thing? I love the Resident Evil films. (long pause) I know, right! Oh, the irony...

I'm afraid of sharks, too. I'm fascinated by them, at the same time, deeply afraid. Sharks, they say, are the most misunderstood creatures on the planet. Oh, whatever. I don't want to see a shark, much more touch a shark. Period.

It all started when my brothers and I watched the 1988 movie, Jaws. I'm sure everybody has heard a thing or two about the movie. I still go to the beach. I love the beach. and I love swimming. But I always take a moment to gaze at the open sea, waiting.. hoping that I won't see a shark fin come out of the water. After Jaws, I never wanted to watch a shark movie again.

Yes, I scare easy. I'm weird that way. :p

Snow White

2012-01-31T12:01:00.000+08:00

Mirror Mirror

A comedy-adventure film, set to be released on the 30th of March, 2012. (USA)

Starring Lily Collins, Julia Roberts, Armie Hammer and Nathan Lane

Snow White and the Huntsman

An action-adventure film, set to be released on the 1st of June, 2012. (USA)

Starring Kristen Stewart, Chris Hemsworth and Charlize Theron

Two Snow White movies. Which would you watch?

Winners Never Quit

2012-01-30T09:47:00.000+08:00

The race is not always to the swift, but to those who keep on running. - Author Unknown

Most people give up just when they're about to achieve success. They quit on the one yard line. They give up at the last minute of the game one foot from a winning touchdown. - Ross Perot

Winners Never Quit, and Quitters Never Win. - Vince Lombardi

Image from Facebook

No long post today. I'd just let the picture speak for itself. Have a good day! ☺

99 Questions

2012-01-28T05:38:00.000+08:00

I've got nothing better to do. I was bored, so I decided to answer the 99 Questions I got from Kathy's blog.

Do you sleep with your closet doors open or closed? Closed.
Do you take the shampoos and conditioner bottles from hotel? No.
Do you sleep with your sheets tucked in or out? Tucked in..
Have you ever stolen a street sign before? No. That sounds dangerous.. and it's against the law.
Do you like to use post-it notes? I don't use post-its.
Do you cut out coupons but then never use them? No.
Would you rather be attacked by a bear or a swarm of a bees? Bees. I'm afraid of bees but I'm more scared of bears.
Do you have freckles? No.
Do you always smile for pictures? Yes.
What is your biggest pet peeve? People who assume it's okay to use my things without my permission.
Do you ever count your steps when you walk? No.
Have you ever peed in the woods? Haha! Yes..
What about pooped in the woods? No.
Do you ever dance even if there's no music playing? I love to dance.. but only when there's music.
Do you chew your pens and pencils? No.
How many people have you slept with this week? None.
What size is your bed? A twin bed.
What is your Song of the week? Pumped-Up Kicks by Foster the People
Is it okay for guys to wear pink? Yes. I love men who can wear pink.
Do you still watch cartoons? Oh yeah.
Whats your least favorite movie? Ghost Rider..
Where would you bury hidden treasure if you had some? Uhuh.. a trick question. I won't tell.
What do you drink with dinner? Water.
What do you dip a chicken nugget in? Ketchup.
What is your favorite food? Pizza!
What movies could you watch over and over and still love? The Lion King.. and Real Steel.
Last person you kissed/kissed you? Dylan.
Were you ever a boy/girl scout? I was a girl scout in middleschool.
Would you ever strip or pose nude in a magazine? No. I don't have the "goods".. :p
When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone on paper? Highschool.. for my mom.
Can you change the oil on a car? No.
Ever gotten a speeding ticket? I don't own a car.. so, No.
Ever ran out of gas? One time, but my cousin was driving the family's car.
Favorite kind of sandwich? PB&J.
Best thing to eat for breakfast? Oatmeal.
What is your usual bedtime? Aah! 2:00 in the morning.. but when I'm at my parents' house, I sleep as early as 7pm.
Are you lazy? Sadly, yes.
When you were a kid, what did you dress up as for Halloween? A princess.
What is your Chinese astrological sign? Gemini - Horse
How many languages can you speak? Ilonggo, Filipino and English. I know a little bit of Spanish..
Do you have any magazine subscriptions? No.
Which are better legos or lincoln logs? Legos.
Are you stubborn? It depends.. but most of the time, I am.
Who is better...Leno or Letterman? I haven't watched Letterman.. so I can't say..
Ever watch soap operas? I used to.. I don't watch and follow any soaps, as of today.
Are you afraid of heights? Yes.
Do you sing in the car? Sometimes..
Do you sing in the shower? Yes.
Do you dance in the car? No.
Ever used a gun? Yes. My dad's.. Target-shooting. And may I say that I'm pretty good at it, too. :)
Last time you got a portrait taken by a photographer? Graduation.
Do you think musicals are cheesy? Yes.. but I love them, anyway.
Is Christmas stressful? Yes.. but hey, it's Christmas! :)
Ever eat a pierogi? Yes.
Favorite type of fruit pie? Pineapple pie tastes good.
Occupations you wanted to be when you were a kid? A surgeon.
Do you believe in ghosts? Hm.. maybe?
Ever have a Deja-vu feeling? Yes.
Take a vitamin daily? Yes.
Wear slippers? Yes.
Wear a bath robe? Sometimes.
What do you wear to bed? A tshirt and shorts.. but sometimes, I sleep in my undies. Haha!
First concert? I haven't attended any concert.. :(
Wal-Mart, Target or Kmart? Ace Hardware! haha..
Nike or Adidas? I used to have a Nike when I was just a little kid..
Cheetos Or Fritos? Cheetos.
Peanuts or Sunflower seeds? Peanuts.
Ever hear of the group Tres Bien? No.
Ever take dance lessons? Yes.. Folk and Modern dances.
Is there a profession you picture your future spouse doing? A businessman.
Can you curl your tongue? Yes.
Ever won a spelling bee? Yes! In sixth grade.
Have you ever cried because you were so happy? Yes.
Own any record albums? Yes. Well, my dad does.
Own a record player? We used to.. Now it's broken.
Regularly burn incense? No. I haven't tried.
Ever been in love? Yes.
Who would you like to see in concert? Zooey Deschanel
What was the last concert you saw? None.
Hot tea or cold tea? Hot green tea.
Tea or coffee? I love them both.
Sugar or snickerdoodles? Huh?!
Can you swim well? I know how to swim.. but I'm not a great swimmer.
Can you hold your breath without holding your nose? Yes.
Are you patient? Sometimes.
DJ or band, at a wedding? A band.
Ever won a contest? Several times in highschool.
Ever have plastic surgery? No.
Which are better black or green olives? I don't know..
Can you knit or crochet? Neither.
Best room for a fireplace? The living room.
Do you want to get married? I do.
If married, how long have you been married? Uhm.. not married yet. :)
Who was your HS crush? I have lots.. Most of them didn't know I was crushing on them.
Do you cry and throw a fit until you get your own way? Sometimes.
Do you have kids? No.
Do you want kids? Yes.. someday.
Whats your favorite color? Purple and yellow.
Do you miss anyone right now? Yes.. I miss Dylan.

Otep's Gift

2012-01-27T00:38:00.000+08:00

My world used to be so small. I turned down party invitations. I rarely went out. I didn't travel much. The farthest I've been to was Antique, which was only 40-50 kilometers away from my home. I didn't have Twitter or Facebook. My life was predictable.

This blog changed me. I found my adventurous side. I met some new faces, explored some new places and gained new friends.. Emphasis on the new friends. One of the greatest gifts of blogging is the gift of friendship.

I received this text message from a very good friend last year. I still have this in my inbox. This sweet Christmas greeting came from Otep, one of the sweetest and funniest guys I've met. He has the gift of wit and humor. He never fails to make me smile. I could hug this guy all day. ☺

Translation: Merry Christmas, Leah. You're one of the most beautiful gifts I've received this year. :-)

Awww.. As sweet as sugar. ☺

Smile

2012-01-25T21:00:00.000+08:00

A smile.

A smile can melt hearts. It can dissolve boundaries. It can start friendships. It can brighten the darkest day. It is the universal language. It is something everybody understands. It is infectious. It is one way of changing your looks - an effortless, inexpensive exercise that shapes your face and it doesn't cost a single penny. ☺

So smile... Because the world always looks a bit brighter from behind a smile. ☺

*Images from Google

Ublog Memory Lane

2012-01-24T17:40:00.000+08:00

The UBlog Iloilo Getaway. November 4-7, 2011. Good times.

I smiled and even laughed, as I took a stroll down memory lane.

*Slideshow direct link

The Land Before Time

2012-01-23T17:52:00.000+08:00

As I was organizing my clothes in the cabinet, I found this big box on top. I got it down and opened it. It's full of video CDs I've collected from way back when, mostly animated films. I've forgotten all about it. I think it was during highschool (or gradeschool, maybe?) when I started collecting video CDs of my favorite movies. And looking inside the box, I felt a bit nostalgic. I checked the titles and picked one: The Land before Time. This, I gotta watch again.

After finishing my chore, I sat down to watch the movie. It's a prehistoric adventure of five little dinosaur friends, Littlefoot, Cera, Spike, Ducky and Petrie. I have 9 movies, out of the complete 13. Of course, I started with the first one. I've seen this movie may times and it gave me some good laughs. But it also moved me to tears, especially when Littlefoot's mother died and the "If We Hold On Together" theme song started to play. Aww, darn that song..

Have you seen these movies? They're not just cartoons.. They are animated tales of friendship, loyalty and love. The first movie is definitely a tearjerker. As of this writing, I'm done watching the first two movies. Going to watch the rest later. Ta-ta!

Dinagyang Festival 2012

2012-01-22T21:59:00.000+08:00

January 22, 2012. Iloilo City celebrated its annual festival, Dinagyang Festival. The root word "dagyang" means "to make happy" or "merrymaking". The streets of Iloilo came alive as the happy Ilonggos dance, sing and cheer "Viva, Senor Santo Niño!" I had plans of joining the celebration, but they didn't push through due to some unforeseen circumstances.

The Dinagyang is a religious and cultural festival in Iloilo City, Philippines held on the fourth Sunday of January, or right after the Sinulog In Cebu and the Ati-Atihan in Aklan. It is held both to honor the Santo Niño and to celebrate the arrival on Panay of Malay settlers and the subsequent selling of the island to them by the Atis. - Wikipedia

Happy Dinagyang, Iloilo City!

* Pictures courtesy of Rogelio Gabiano Jr. of Pinoy Travel Freak.

Sit and Watch

2012-01-21T20:26:00.000+08:00

‘No matter what gets in the way or which way the wind does blow… I’ll just sit here and watch the river flow.’ ~ Bob Dylan

Life can get so fast-paced and competitive, and we get so anxious to reach the destinations, that we forget to appreciate and enjoy the JOURNEY. In relation to this, I wanna share this lovely post by Leo Babauta from Zen Habits.

Have you ever felt that we are rushing through life, that we get so caught up in busy-ness that life is passing us almost without notice?

I get this feeling all the time.

The antidote is simple: sitting and watching.

Take a minute out of your busy day to sit with me, and talk. Take a moment to imagine being in the middle of traffic — you’re driving, stressed out by the high amount of traffic, trying to get somewhere before you’re late, angry at other drivers who are rude or idiotic, completely focused on making your way through this jungle of metal on a ribbon of asphalt. Now you’ve gotten to the end, phew, you made it, wonderful, and you’re only a few minutes late … but did you notice the scenery you passed along the way? Did you talk to any of the other people along your path? Did you enjoy the ride?

No, probably not. You were so caught up in getting there, in the details of navigating, in the stress of driving, that you didn’t have time to notice your surroundings, the people nearby, or the wonderful journey. This is how we are in life.

Now imagine that you pulled over, and got out of the car, and found a grassy spot to sit. And you watched the other cars zoom by. And you watched the grass blown gently by the wind, and the birds making a flocking pattern overhead, and the clouds lazily watching you back.

Sit and watch.

We don’t do this, because it’s useless to do something that isn’t productive, that doesn’t improve our lives. But as Alan Watts wrote in The Way of Zen:

“As muddy water is best cleared by leaving it alone, it could be argued that those who sit quietly and do nothing are making one of the best possible contributions to a world in turmoil.”

It’s interesting, too, what we see when we sit and watch. We will notice others rushing, and worried, and angry, and in them see a mirror of ourselves. We will notice children laughing (or crying) with their parents, and remember what we’re missing when we rush to improve our lives.

More interesting is what you see when you sit and watch yourself. You learn to step outside yourself, and act as an observer. You see your thoughts, and learn more about yourself than you ever could if you were rushing to take action. You see your self-doubts, and self-criticism, and wonder where they came from (a bad incident in childhood, perhaps?) and wonder if you are smart enough to let them go. You see your rationalizations, and realize that they are bullshit, and learn to let those go too. You see your fears, and realize what hold they have over you, and realize that you can make them powerless, by just sitting and watching them, not taking action on them.

By sitting and watching, you come to know yourself.

You learn the most valuable lessons about life, by sitting and watching.

And as we know from the observer effect in physics, by watching, we change what we watch.

Take a few minutes today, to sit and watch. It might change your life.

A Dog's Story

2012-01-20T18:27:00.000+08:00

Four years has passed since my dog Fall, died. I thought I'm already over his death. I thought I was already okay with him gone. Apparently, I wasn't.

This afternoon, I saw a short video clip on Facebook. It's about a dog. His person was killed in the middle of the street. And the dog never left his side. He watched over him as the police secured the place. He just lay there, never leaving his person's side. It touched my heart. Loyal friends, dogs are. And I thought of Fall. (Click here to read about Fall's story.)

July 18, 2008. Fall got sick. 6 days after, he died.
This is the last picture I took of him. My happy dog, Fall.

The memory of Fall, fighting for his life, brought tears to my eyes. I was there, and I never left his side. I remember that last few minutes, when he looked at me and licked my nose.. as if saying "I love you. Don't worry. Everything will be fine." For a brief moment, I understood him.

He died in my arms. July 24, 2008. And I miss him terribly.

The Force is strong with this one.

2012-01-19T20:32:00.000+08:00

I LOLed when I saw this video on YouTube. It's the 2012 Volkswagen Game Day commercial. In my previous post, I said I have no intentions of buying a car. But after watching this car commerncial, I said to myself, "I may have to buy a Volkswagen now." I almost gave in to the powerful Jedi mind trick. Almost.

Here's the Volkswagen commercial last year. Though the bald doll is a bit scary-looking, the little Darth Vader is adorable and his reaction when the car started is epic.. He was like "Whoa! It worked!!" Lol.

"Move along.. move along. These aren't the droids you're looking for." Haha! Pardon me, I can't help myself. I'm a Star Wars fan.

May the Force be with you.

Driving Cars

2012-01-18T00:30:00.000+08:00

I don't own a car. My dad has one. My brothers, too. Me, I have no plans of buying or owning one. Which I think is a good idea because I'm way too paranoid to drive a car. But that doesn't mean I don't like cars. There are lots of cars I adore.

There's the mini Cooper, which initially caught my eye when I watched the movie "The Italian Job". And of course, there's the Volkswagen Beetle. I've seen the old Transformers cartoons wherein Bumblebee's still a yellow Volkswagen Beetle. The recent movies showed Bumblebee on its new Camaro design.. but I still prefer the yellow Bug.

I know how to drive. I've taken lessons. I used to drive our Nissan pickup truck around the uni with some friends. And at one time, I drove from Miagao going home to San Joaquin, which wasn't really a feat (since home's only 20 kilometers away from where I work). But never have I tried driving a car within the city. I'm pretty sure I won't be able to focus. When it comes to driving, I tend to think of dreadful things that could possibly happen. Paranoia. I know. It sucks.

The problem with drivers of public utility vehicles nowadays.. they drive fast. And I mean... FAST! I don't know why exactly. They drive their vehicles like they're in a race or something. Life is dangerous in the fast lane. People want to reach their destinations in one piece.. Why floor it?

My dad has the very same problem. Mom's always telling him to slow down whenever he's driving. One thing I've noticed.. Dad usually speeds up when a car's behind us, trying to overtake us. Every time, I resist the urge to shout "Let it pass, dad! Just let it pass!" Is it male ego? Mom feels the same way. She constantly reminds my Dad to slow down when he's on the wheel. Which is only reasonable.

A driver holds his passengers' lives on his hands. Literally. One little mistake, everyone can get hurt. I get annoyed when I see teenagers driving their cars like kings of the road. Owning a car and driving one is not all about fun. It's a responsibility.. to yourself, to your passengers and to the other drivers, as well.

That's why I don't drive. I don't think I can handle that much responsibility. I like to just sit on the backseat, take a nap, listen to music and enjoy the scenery outside the car window. Can't really do that when one's driving. So I don't drive. My head throbs almost everytime I sit behind the wheel.

Here in the Philippines, the downside to travelling as a commuter, riding on jeepneys and buses, are the crowd, the long lines, the heat and the traffic. But then, I'm living in the suburbs. No long lines, the heat is bearable.. there's rarely any traffic.. and not owning a car means I don't have to pay for gas. Though the fare is still fairly high, I prefer to ride than drive. It works for me. Less drama.

Sophie ♥

2012-01-16T20:44:00.000+08:00

Tomorrow is January 17!

It's Sophie's 3rd birthday!

Happy birthday, kiddo! Tita Nene loves you! Mwah! ♥

Religion

2012-01-16T14:45:00.000+08:00

I don't really like having discussions about religion on my blog. It's a very sensitive subject. But I saw this video on YouTube and I said to myself that this is worth the share. It's a very powerful poem made by Jefferson Bethke, on the difference between God and religion.

"A poem I wrote to highlight the difference between Jesus and false religion. In the scriptures Jesus received the most opposition from the most religious people of his day. At it's core Jesus' gospel and the good news of the Cross is in pure opposition to self-righteousness/self-justification. Religion is man centered, Jesus is God-centered. This poem highlights my journey to discover this truth. Religion either ends in pride or despair. Pride because you make a list and can do it and act better than everyone, or despair because you can't do your own list of rules and feel "not good enough" for God. With Jesus though you have humble confident joy because He represents you, you don't represent yourself and His sacrifice is perfect putting us in perfect standing with God! - Jefferson Bethke

Of course, we have different opinions on things. I agree with Jefferson when he said that people sometimes build facades to mask their imperfections because their religion tells them that these sins make them unworthy. But I disagree with religion starting wars. I believe that it is the IGNORANCE of the people and total disrespect of religions that do start wars. And to say that Jesus hate religion..? I think "hate"is such a strong word.

Another poem was also written (and uploaded on YouTube, as well) as a response to the video.

"I agree with a lot of what this guy said, but I do have some sharp disagreements with him. - Trent Horn"

What's your say on this?

Log In Emails

2012-01-15T13:41:00.000+08:00

My Blogger account uses my Yahoo ID as its log in email. My Google+ account has Gmail as my log in email. Every time I have a new blog update, I'd sign out of Blogger (Eventhough I've already allowed the multiple sign-in feature on Google, it's simply not allowing me and I don't know what is wrong) and log in on Google+ and share my post there. With my slow internet connection, this is a hassle for me.

I don't know if there's an application which allows published posts on Blogger to automatically be shared on G+. If there is, I don't know about it yet.. obviously.

So I searched the net for some solution. I found a very useful video tutorial about adding a blog author/changing a blog administrator, ergo changing the blog's primary email.

This is my Blogger dashboard, using my old email ID (Yahoo).

I have no blogs listed here because I've transferred my admin privileges to my Blogger profile using my new email ID.. as you can see at the picture below.

This is my Blogger dashboard, using my new email ID (Gmail).

Here's what I did.

Signed in on Blogger.
Went to Settings.
On the Permissions, I clicked Add Authors.
Entered my new e-mail address. (An activation link was sent to my new email address. With my blogger profile already activated in Google+, everything's set.)
Clicked that. I was redirected to Blogger.
Once authentication was successful, I logged-out of Blogger.
Again, I logged in with my old email ID, went to Settings, then Permissions and granted admin privileges to my new email ID.
After that, I logged in with my new email ID and removed my old-email ID.

This is an indirect way of changing the Blogger's primary email, since its main objective is to add or remove authors/administrators.

So there.. I finally changed my log in email from Yahoo mail to Gmail. With only one log in email, I was able to open my G+ account, without having to log out of my Blogger account. Yay me! ☺

Mike Tompkins (Beatbox)

2012-01-12T23:01:00.000+08:00

I was browsing the internet last night, and I came upon this awesome video of Mike Tompkins on YouTube. I'm pretty sure some of you have already seen his videos. Mike is making A Capella covers, using the sounds made by his voice and mouth, and is sharing his videos through his YouTube channel. I've always been fascinated with beatboxing.. So I played the video.. and another one.. and another one. Wow. This guy's amazing!

The "Piano", "Piano Harmony" and "Synth Lines" are the best.. ☺

The "Snare" and "Beatbox" are awesome!

Watch out for the "Snare" and "Synth Lines".. ☺

Pretty cool, right? ☺

If you wanna see more of his videos, you could subscribe to his YouTube channel http://www.youtube.com/user/pbpproductions. Also, check out his website.. www.mike-tompkins.com. If you wish to contact him, leave him a message at the contact section of his website. You could also find him on Facebook, Twitter and iTunes!..

FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/Mik...
www.facebook.com/MikeTompkinsMusic

TWITTER:
http://twitter.com/mike_tom...
www.twitter.com/mike_tompkins

iTunes!
http://itunes.apple.com/us/...

Mosquitoes!

2012-01-10T23:10:00.000+08:00

Annoying little insects, these mosquitoes. Kept me up last night. Kept flying near my ear! "Buzzz, buzzzz!" Effing blood-suckers!

I've dealt with them. I bought bug spray this morning and sprayed the whole room full strength. Yeah! FREEDOM! *William Wallace voice* But I know that this is short-lived. They will be back, for sure. But I'm ready. Bought a mosquito net for my li'l bed, too.

HAH! They will not get me!

I'm a Mouse.

2012-01-07T23:14:00.000+08:00

I saw this on Facebook and I decided to share it with you.

My birthday is June 2.. so I'm a mouse. Haha! A cute li'l mouse. It is spot-on.. except for the "full of mischief" part. Hehe.. I am not full of mischief. Well, sometimes I am.. but.. ah, never mind. Blaah!

Here's the list. Look up your birthday and see what you are...

January 01 - 09 ~ Dog

January 10 - 24 ~ Mouse

January 25 - 31 ~ Lion

February 01 - 05 ~ Cat

February 06 - 14 ~ Dove

February 15 - 21 ~ Turtle

February 22 - 28 ~ Panther

March 01 - 12 ~ Monkey

March 13 - 15 ~ Lion

March 16 - 23 ~ Mouse

March 24 - 31 ~ Cat

April 01 - 03 ~ Dog

April 04 - 14 ~ Panther

April 15 - 26 ~ Mouse

April 27 - 30 ~ Turtle

May 01 - 13 ~ Monkey

May 14 - 21 ~ Dove

May 22 - 31 ~ Lion

June 01 - 03 ~ Mouse

June 04 - 14 ~ Turtle

June 15 - 20 ~ Dog

June 21 - 24 ~ Monkey

June 25 - 30 ~ Cat

July 01 - 09 ~ Mouse

July 10 - 15 ~ Dog

July 16 - 26 ~ Dove

July 27 - 31 ~ Cat

August 01 - 15 ~ Monkey

August 16 - 25 ~ Mouse

August 26 - 31 ~ Turtle

September 01 - 14 ~ Dove

September 15 - 27 ~ Cat

September 28 - 30 ~ Dog

October 01 - 15 ~ Monkey

October 16 - 27 ~ Turtle

October 28 - 31 ~ Panther

November 01 - 16 ~ Lion

November 17 - 30 ~ Cat

December 01 - 16 ~ Dog

December 17 - 25 ~ Monkey

December 26 - 31 ~ Dove

Dog : A very loyal and sweet person. Your loyalty can never be doubted. You are quite honest and sincere when it comes to your attitude towards working. You are a very simple person, indeed. Absolutely hassle free, humble and down-to-earth!! That explains the reason why your friends cling on to you! You have a good taste for clothes. If your wardrobe is not updated with what is trendy, you sure are depressed. Popular and easy-going. You have a little group of dignified friends, all of them being quality-personified.

Mouse : Always up to some sort of a mischief! The mischievous gleam in your eyes is what makes you so cute and attractive to everyone. You are an extremely fun-to-be-with kind of person. No wonder people seek for your company and look forward to include you for all get-together's. However, you are sensitive which is a drawback. People need to select their words while talking to you. If someone tries to fiddle around and play with words while dealing with you, it is enough to invite your wrath. God bless the person then!

Lion : Quite contradictory to your name, you are a peace loving person. You best try to avoid a situation wherein you are required to fight. An outdoor person, you dislike sitting at one place for a long duration. Popular and easy-going. You are a born leader, and have it in you how to tactfully derive work from people. People love the way you always treat them. You love being loved, and when you receive your share of limelight from someone, you are all theirs!!!!

Cat : An extremely lovable, adorable person, sometimes shy, with a passion for quick wit. At times, you prefer quietness. You love exploring various things and going into depth of each thing. Under normal circumstances you're cool but when given a reason to, you are like a volcano waiting to erupt. You're a fashion bird. People look forward to you as an icon associated with fashion. Basically, you mingle along freely but don't like talking much to strangers. People feel very easy in your company. You observe care in choosing your friends.

Turtle : You are near to perfect and nice at heart. The examples of your kindness are always circulated in groups of people. You, too, love peace. You wouldn't like to retaliate even to a person who is in the wrong. You are loved due to this. You do not wish to talk behind one's back. People love the way you always treat them. You can give, give and give love, and the best part is that you do not expect it back in return. You are generous enough. Seeing things in a practical light is what remains the best trait of you guys.

Dove : You symbolize a very happy-go-lucky approach in life. Whatever the surroundings may be, grim or cheerful, you remain unaffected. In fact, you spread cheer wherever you go. You are the leader of your group of friends and good at consoling people in their times of need. You dislike hypocrisy and tend to shirk away from hypocrites. They can never be in your good books, no matter what. You are very methodical and organized in your work. No amount of mess, hence, can ever encompass you. Beware, it is easy for you to fall in love....

Panther : You are mysterious. You are someone who can handle pressure with ease, and can handle any atmosphere without going berserk. You can be mean at times, and love to gossip with your selected group. Very prim and proper. You like all situations and things to be in the way you desire, which, sometimes is not possible. As a result, you may lose out in some relationships. But otherwise, you love to help people out from difficult and tight spots when they really need you.

Monkey : Very impatient and hyper!!! You want things to be done as quick as possible. At heart, you are quite simple and love if you are the center of attraction. That way, you people are unique. You would like to keep yourself safe from all the angles. Shall your name be dragged or featured in any sort of a controversy, you then go all panicky. Therefore, you take your precautions from the very beginning. When you foresee anything wrong, your sixth sense is what saves you from falling in traps. Quite a money minded bunch you people are.

Just for the fun of it.. what are you..? ☺

Busy Month.

2012-01-07T16:31:00.000+08:00

My December was busy. Right.. I think everybody's December was busy. LOL.

December 17. It's my cousin's daughter's birthday. I missed out on the SBA night, but well.. it's Hannah's 7th birthday.. and its a family event. It was held at a beach resort at Guintas, Hamtic, Antique. The birthday girl's beautiful. The place's great. The food's delicious. We had a blast! 5:00 o'clock in the afternoon and it was time to go home. Guintas is 40 kilometers away from home. I was supposed to stay there for one night to bond with my cousins, but little Sophia (my niece) was going to throw a fit if I don't go home with them. So I went home with them. Bummer. Oh well.. :)

Hannah's mom, little Sophie, my Mom, the birthday girl Hannah, Me and little Ysabel.

December 22. Mom, Dad and my two beautiful nieces woke up early to have an early morning jog/swim at the beach. It's only a kilometer away from the house. We just love the beach.. ♥

December 25. Christmas! It's Jesus' birthday! The time for giving.. At 4:00 o'clock in the afternoon, as part of family tradition, we held a children's party at our backyard. There were food and games and GIFTS for the neighborhood kids.

December 31. Midnight. NEW YEAR! I was busy comforting my dogs by "baby-talking" and petting them.. they were shivering because of fear. Those firecrackers were too loud! I know I shouldn't have done that.. I was reaffirming to them that they should be scared of those loud noises.. but they're shivering! And those eyes! Those big, round, puppy-dog eyes! So.. there. I forgot to take pictures of what little fireworks we have.

January 1. Day 1. First Sunday. 2012. We attended mass. In the evening, my Dad and I went to my cousin's house and joined the fun. Cousin Gorge's going to Bacolod the next day. Cousin Lyn's going back to Manila, too. So we ate, drank, sang and danced the night away! It was one great party!

An inspiration.

2012-01-05T07:51:00.000+08:00

Watch this video.. and be inspired.

"There were times when I sort of look at my life.. thinking that i can't do this and i can't do that. And you keep on concentrating on the things that you wish you had, or the things that you wish you didn't have... and you sort of forget of what you do have.

It's a lie to think that youre not good enough. It's a lie to think that you're not worthy of anything.

I love life. So many people come and say, "How come you smile so much?" It's a long story.. but it's very simple, at the same time. You see it's very hard to smile sometimes in life.. there were things that happen that you don't know when you don't understand and you don't know if you're gonna get through it. You go through your storms in life, and you don't know how long the storms are gonna be.

I may not have hands to hold my wife's hand, but when the time comes, I'd be able to hold her heart.

It's scary to know how many people actually feel like they weren't enough. Every single girl right here, right now.. I want you to know that you are beautiful. You are gorgeous just the way you are. And you boys? You're the man.

Be thankful."

- Nick Vujicic

Home

2012-01-04T10:07:00.000+08:00

Hello again! Wazzup? ☺

Allow me to share with you, these pictures that I took of my room, of the house and of my mom's flowers and plants.

This is my room. I've missed my games on PS2.. (God of War, RE4 and Kingdom Hearts 2)

I have a mini library inside my room.. magazines, pocketbooks and novels.

LOL. Yeah, right..

Heya, Nas. Here's the picture of the cow. I didn't get a picture of its eyes, though. Sorry.

Chickens and doves!

Flowers. My mom's into them. How I wish I even have half her talent..

The front yard...

I had blissful afternoon naps inside that li'l Nipa hut. :)

This is my childhood home. I did lots of activities and "chores" while I was there. Dad and I, we took turns on feeding the the pigs and the chickens. We went fly-fishing at the nearby pond, with my two nieces. I didn't catch any fish, though.. But they caught three. Life is unfair. LOL.

I had fun. ☺

Just stepping inside my room, a torrent of memories flooded me.. Nostalgia. This is the place where I grew up. This is the only place in the world where I feel most secure. My sanctuary. ☺

Well.. that's that! Toodles! ♥

Hello, 2012!

2012-01-03T06:19:00.000+08:00

Hello, blog!
Hello, friends!
Hello, 2012!
Happy New Year!

Wow. Time really does fly fast, doesn't it? I mean, just the other night, I was dining with my parents and having jolly conversations over dinner, and then VIOLA! It's 2012! I loved how we welcomed the new year as it came into our home.. full of laughter and love. All smiles, BIG smiles. Start the year right! Oh yeah.

And back to blogging. So how's everybody? Great, I hope. I'm pretty sure you all have your Christmas and New Year stories lined up to be shared. My reader is so full of updates about 'em.. Oh, and those New Year's Resolutions, too. I wasn't sure if I wanna share mine.. But since everybody is doing it, I might as well do it. Hihi.. Here I am, jumping on the bandwagon.

Here's my list last year.

The first on my list. Learn to relax and try to let go of things. I always try to rationalize things. Why this? Why that? Always looking for answers. I tend to think too much. Maybe I should try letting loose, for a change. You know, like understanding the idea that things happen because they're bound to happen. I've got to learn to let things go. Relax. Chill.

I think I've achieved this goal. I learned to let go of things and not over-analyze everything. Life is basically simple.

Second. Learn to stop making excuses and love your work. I am very "tamad". It basically means, I need proper motivation to do something. And by "proper", I mean enough bribe and benefits. Maybe I should start doing things, not just because of what I can gain from doing it, but because I simply have to and should do it. Don't get me wrong.. It is only correct that I do something because there's so much in store for me.. a pot full of gold at the end of the rainbow. But just doing something because I have to and then LOVING it, I can see that it offers greater satisfaction. Bottomline, stop being materialistic and "tamad".

I love what I do, but I'm still very "tamad". But I'm working on it. This'll definitely go on my 2012 list.

Third. Learn discipline. I keep failing at this. But I'll try to do better. 'Nuff said.

I keep failing at this. Grrr. This'll be on my list.

Fourth. Slim down. This goes hand in hand with the third. I simply can't control myself when it comes to food. I love food. Who doesn't, right? I really find it very difficult to say NO whenever I see some mouth-watering dish on the table. Maybe I should start wearing a red ribbon on my right pinkie, just to remind myself not to eat too much. LOL. Or better yet, maybe I should slap myself everytime an urge to eat strikes. Hehe. That would surely work. Nah, I think the best way is just to learn focus and discipline. Easier said than done.. But hey, it's worth a shot.

I lost some, but then I gained some more. Tsk. On the list. Totally.

Fifth. Save more. I admit, I'm not thrifty. Wait.. I am very kuripot.. but when it comes to personal pleasure and benefits, I tend to splurge. All out. Yep, it's perfectly okay to treat yourself once a month. Problem is, I do that every week. LOL. Pfft.. I know. I'm not getting any younger. I have to save more dough. More money on my bank account. Check.

My bank account is okay. Not great, I only have a few thousand bucks in it, but better that than nothing. I will save more this year.

Sixth. Get married? Nah.. I'm not really sure if I wanna get married this year. Why? 'Coz I don't have a boyfriend. Haha! I'm single, as of the moment. And boy, am I glad that the last relationship has finally ended. It was a losing battle. That boy who I called my boyfriend for 10 years was cheating on me, sleeping with another woman. What hurt the most was that he lied to me. He made a fool out of me. I didn't know.. until the last minute. And he should have told me the truth. Instead, he hid behind a thick wall of lies. Still, I'd like to think that it is a blessing in disguise. Life's way better without him. And I say that with all civility.

I'm inlove. 'Nuff said. ♥

Seventh. Travel more. I'd really like to travel more. 2010 gave me an all-time low opportunity to travel. The place I've traveled to, farthest away from home was Antique.. and it's only 50-60 kilometers away. So hopefully, this year.. I could go out and travel more. If fate allows, maybe I could go to Manila this January. I also have plans of going to Bacolod and Davao. Plans, but I hope they'd come in contact with "becoming real" and "coming true". I guess this one goes hand in hand with my number 5. If I can save more, maybe I can travel a lot more. Seems possible, right?

Right on! I traveled. I went to see different places, met new faces and made new friends. I was bitten by the travel bug. I want MORE. The Philippines has lots of beautiful destinations and I wish to visit 'em all.

Eight. Write honest posts and gain more blog acquaintances. Some bloggers write to impress. And I admit, in the past year, I did write to impress. But then, after a few months of blogging, I felt like there's no use making an incredible posts, whilst no one will be able to understand. Some of my posts have been purely superficial and shallow. My readers didn't feel me, and it's kinda frustrating. Also, I've noticed that some bloggers, they tend to form groups. And it's quite hard to join one. It's like being back in high school, you don't know where you'd fit in. You'd try to join clubs and groups, in order to feel some sort of security or whatever. The only way to be IN is to fit in. Now, I'm realizing that I really don't need to join groups to have readers. Of course, that's a big plus. But as long as I write honest posts, readers could totally relate to what I'm saying/writing about and they'd totally want to go back for more. That's why I want to explore the blog world more. I won't limit myself to just a limited number of readers. I honestly want to have readers who are residing, halfway across the globe from me. There are thousands, maybe millions of bloggers all around the world. And I'm quite sure that there is someone out there, who'd notice me, and understand or relate to my posts on a personal level. So maybe, I should learn to write from the heart more and gain friends, in return.

I am proud to say that I achieved this goal. During the first year of writing online, I wrote to impress.. joined a lot of memes and pushed myself too hard to share something. It wasn't working out for me. All my posts seemed.. "forced". So I began writing honest posts.. my experiences, my thoughts. I began writing whenever inspiration hits me. Then everything just fell into place. I am now part of a Facebook blog community. I made friends with some of the most wonderful people in the blog world. I gained a decent number of followers AND readers. ☺I'm thankful for that.

This is my list. Short. Simple.

Stop being lazy.
Be disciplined!
Lose weight!
Save more money.
Travel MORE!

There. I still have lots on my list, but I'd like to keep them to myself.

2011. It was the year of realization, reflection, acceptance, forgiveness and love. It truly was a great year. And I know 2012 will fare better.☺

Happy new year, everybody!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-19T21:23:00.000+08:00

"My Christmas wish for you, my friend

Is not a simple one.

For I wish you hope and joy and peace

Days filled with warmth and sun.

I wish you love and friendship too

Throughout the coming year.

Lots of laughter and happiness

To fill your world with cheer.."

♥

MIB and FB

2011-12-15T23:57:00.000+08:00

Guess who's back!

I got excited upon reading a friend's post on Facebook, about the newest Men In Black movie. The official trailer's out. So I immediately went to YouTube. I looooooove Will Smith. He's one of the greatest actors, ever! And I love the MIB movies. I'm so excited to watch this one. ♥

Oh, I've heard that the new Facebook Timeline is now available to everyone. I had mine activated months ago. So, do you have the new timeline? What do you think? Are you loving it? I honestly think it's good.. especially its Life Event feature. I was editing my mine minutes ago. And I saw something that made me laugh. It wasn't even funny, but I laughed anyway.

Apparently, Facebook users can add an "End of Relationship" life event to their timeline. Duh?! Who wants to remember THAT. Come on... But oh well, Facebook loves us too much, it's giving us the option.

Oh, please excuse me for the lame post title. Can't come up with a decent one. Blaaah!

Parties and Travels

2011-12-15T10:44:00.000+08:00

Parties and travels.

Family and friends.

2011.

January

Our eldest brother's and Sophie's Birthdays

Get-together (San Joaquin Town Fiesta)

February

Bloggers Eyeball (MOA, Pasay City)

Star City

Snow World, Star City

Tagaytay

Manila Bay

Patar Beach, Bolinao, Pangasinan

100 Islands, Pangasinan

Enchanted Cave, Bolinao, Pangasinan

Cape Bolinao (Lighthouse), Pangasinan

The Venice Piazza Mall, Taguig City

UP Diliman, Quezon City

March

Panaad Festival, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental

Mambukal Hot Spring Resort, Murcia, Negros Occidental

April

Nanay's birthday (My mom)

May

Lola's birthday (My Grandma)

June

Me and my brother's birthdays

July is uneventful.

August

Crocodile Farm, Davao City

Butterfly Farm (via Crocodile Park), Davao City

Samal Island (Davao)

Monfort Bat Colony, Samal Island

Hagimit Falls and Nature's Park, Samal Island

The White House, Samal Island

Abreeza Mall, Samal Island

Jack's Ridge Resort, Shrine Hills, Matina, Davao City

Enchanted Kingdom, Sta. Rosa City, Laguna

Tagaytay

September

Westwoods, Mandurriao, Iloilo City

October

Masskara Festival, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental

Barangay Tiolas Town Fiesta

November

Tatay's Birthday (My Dad)

Iloilo City

Guimaras

MOA, Pasay City

The Lourdes Grotto (Baguio City)

Wright Park (Baguio City)

Mines View Park (Baguio City)

Philippine Military Academy (Baguio City)

MOA, Pasay City

December

2011 is definitely MY year. An awesome year!

And I'm looking forward to have an awesome 2012, as well. ♥

Blogs and Gifts

2011-12-14T14:53:00.000+08:00

Bloggers.

Gifts.

2011.

From Carlo

I remember having silly conversations with Carlo (Supladong Office Boy) on Twitter. He's in Hongkong at that time, and we kept talking about his adventure, about HongKong, about girls and then about presents. I remember telling him that I'd be expecting a "pasalubong" from him once we meet up. I never thought that he'd really buy me something! He gave me a Victoria's Secret body mist and a genuine Hongkong Disneyland picture frame! Booyeah! I love the VS scents and I've always wanted to go to Disneyland. I love everything Disney! So imagine my delight when Carlo handed me his gifts. I was so happy, all I said was "Thank you! Thank you!" over and over.. and over and over and over... Okay. You get the idea. Carlo, thanks so much! You're really the younger brother I never had. I miss you! ♥

Desole Boy

Deebee (Desole Boy or DB, as we fondly call him) gave me this Kapamilya pin. I can vividly remember that night. After leaving EK (Enchanted Kingdom), we searched for a hostel where we could rest our feet. We ended up renting 3 rooms in a motel. It was awkward.. people are looking at us like we're nutjobs or something. But who cares? After resting for a little while, went out to have dinner. Unfortunately, there were no open establishments nearby.. Only a burger stand. So we all had burgers and drinks. After dinner, Deebee and I talked and then, he handed me this pin. It's a limited edition pin. And he gave it to me. How cool is that? Super cool! Thanks so much, DeeBee! :)

Kurog

Oh yeah. Please.. lower your eyebrows. Haha! I know, right? A toothbrush? Really?!? Well, yeah. Really. Kurog (My Name is Kurog) gave me a toothbrush. This one night (during the UBLOG Iloilo Getaway), I decided to spend the night with the bloggers in their hotel room. But I haven't brought my toothbrush with me. Luckily, Kurog had a spare. A brand-new one, of course. He's a lifesaver. I couldn't sleep without brushing my teeth!

Roanne

UBLOG Iloilo Getaway, 1st night. Roanne (Prodigal Daughter's Journey) gave each and every one of us a very nice keychain from Macau. She brought around fifty, I think and there's only 20 of us, bloggers. Uhuh.. I got very lucky to receive 3 keychains. Hehe! Am so greedy. LOL. Well, I gave one to my mom.. gave another to my grandma. And I have this one. Thanks so much, pretty Roanne.

Zen

I got the chance to meet the very witty Zen (Zen Encounters), FINALLY! She's very cute! Very friendly! During the 2nd day in Baguio city, she gave me (and the rest of the gang) a letter keychain. "L" for Leah. That's just so sweet. And then, on the bus station while we're wating for the 10 o'clock bus, she handed me another gift - a bag. Wow! I was rendered speechless for a moment. I was eyeing this bag at the market earlier that day, and I did wanna buy it. However, I was a hesitant. I was running low on dough, if you know what I mean. So I didn't. So I was surprised when Zenzen handed me the very bag I've wanted to buy. She's a mind-reader! Haha! Awesome! Thanks so much, zenzen! You're a darling! ♥

Bino

I never thought that I could have my very own domain. I had no plans of buying one. I was pretty content with my blog address.. *name.blogspot.com.. It all started on Twitter. Joshua (YOW) and I were only kidding around. We were convincing Bino (Damuhan) to give us both free blog domains. But we were only joking. But this very generous soul gave us what we asked for. Of course, not being a hypocrite.. I was happy. A bit hesitant to accept it, but who am I to say no to a generous gift? It would be an insult. The thought of having my own domain started to sink in when Bino contacted me on Twitter and sent me an email on how to set up the purchased domain. And viola.. ☺ Thank you so much, Bino. I'm definitely loving my blog more because of the gift you gave me. :)

Madz

Baguio City. Novemebr 24-27. I was so excited that I forgot to bring/pack a towel. Of all the things to forget, huh? You can't go on a trip without a towel. Upon arriving at the airport, Madz (Mood Swings) asked me if I had brought a towel for the trip. I answered no. Oh well, there's still time to buy a towel at the mall. We were heading that way, anyway. So. We arrived at the mall, but with the excitement of meeting old friends and meeting new ones, I forgot all about it. But Madz didn't. Thank God, right? I was surprised (and relieved) when she handed me a light purple towel and a bottle of Gatorade she bought. Such a sweet gal, that Madeline. :)

Spongebob key chain - Otep

Tagaytay key chain - Berlim

That key chains are so cute, that my niece Sophia, simply had to have them. Hehe. They're her treasures now, Otep and Berlin. Hope you don't mind. ☺

Thank you for the gift of friendship.

♥

"The greatest treasures are not gold, nor jewels, nor works of art. They cannot be held in your hands. They're held within your heart. For worldly things will fade away as seasons come and go. But the treasure of true friendship will never lose its glow." - Fairy Mary

Blogs and Friends

2011-12-13T14:54:00.000+08:00

Bloggers.

Friends.

2011.

Xander of A Boy Named Xander

Bino of Damuhan

Carlo of Supladong Office Boy

Joshua of It's YOW Time

Melissa of Workaholicgirl's Blog

Jason of Jezonhamster

Otep of Libre Lang Mangarap

Kurog of My Name is Kurog

Desole Boy

Tolits of The Backpack Man

Mark Bryan of The Drive and Grind

Empi of Kol Me Empi

Berlin of Cuteberl's World

John of Kumagcow

Chamz of The Journey of Chamz

Marvin of Kwentong Nakaka ni Kikilabotz

Jay of Jay Rulez

AXL of AXL Powerhouse Production Inc.

Roanne of Prodigal Daughter's Journey

Bernard of Hibang (Tagni-Tagning Ideya)

Joel of Batangmangyan

Boni of Bonistation

Madz of Mood Swings

Jeff of Toilet Thoughts of a Toxic Mind

Jose of Opinyoneyted

Sendo of Sendorero

Petitay of Simply Petitay

Zyra of Blessed Zyra and Zen of Zen Encounters

RJ of The Minimalist Sense

Lhan of Notbuk ni Lhan

Ron of Brand X

Rico

Badet

Milch

Joe

Arvin Erick

Yvette

Niel

Kyle

Yanah

Sadly, Mark (Travel and Snaps) and I don't have any picture together. :(

I don't have any picture with Katherine (Life's Little Pieces), as well. :(

We talked.
We laughed.
We shared stories.
Wonderful times.
Wonderful people.
Each and every one of them.
♥

Guest Post Archive

2011-12-13T03:07:00.000+08:00

Yay! My guest post series is done. ♥

1st Guest Post Series

Guest Post: Trust - by Akoni.

Guest Post: Sex and Virginity - by Kamil.

Guest Post: I've had Enough - by Emmaleigh.

Guest Post: The Big Blog Theory - by Oliver.

Guest Post: Chivalry - by Marie.

Guest Post: Of Blogs, Readers and Comments - by Amy.

Guest Post: Love as Catastrophe - by Rah.

2nd Guest Post Series

Guest Post: Honesty - by Raz.

Guest Post: Feminism - by Furree Katt.

Guest Post: Marriage and Divorce - by Nas.

Guest Post: Unrequited Love - by Isha.

Guest Post: Learning and Education - by Mark.

Guest Post: Domestic Violence - by Mayen.

Guest Post: The Blame Game - by Sey.

Guest Post: Online Bullies - by Hazel.

Guest Post: Racial Discrimination - by Al.

Guest Post: Expectations - by Mona.

Guest Post: Goodbyes - by Purplemist.

Guest Post: Gay Rights - by Leo.

Guest Post: Passion vs. Job - by Aiza.

Guest Post: Fear of Death - by Juliet.

Guest Post: Media Influence - by Cindy.

Guest Post: Sex - by Desole Boy.

Guest Post: Drugs - by Traveliztera.

I would like to extend my appreciation to all the bloggers who have participated in both Guest Post series. Those are wonderful guest articles! Thank you for sharing them with me and my readers.

Of course, I'd also like to say thank you to each and everyone of you who have visited my blog, who took the time to read and drop comments to the guest posts. Your comments are deeply appreciated, not just by me but by my guest bloggers as well.

Thank you, lovely people! ♥

Guest Post: Drugs

2011-12-12T12:00:00.000+08:00

Drugs

When you're a nurse, especially if you have mental health nursing as your specialty or interest , you are taught of this different perspective towards sensitive issues that make majority of the society turn away in disgust, such as promiscuity and drugs. I have embraced empathy so much, that sometimes people think "Do you honestly think that people who do not take responsibility for their acts are still worthy of your empathy?" My answer is: "Everyone deserves to be heard and be given the chance to explain for what has brought them to where they are now, and from there, the process of recovery starts. It's just like a disease… If we do not understand what happened and what's going on, we will not be able to cure it, and the cycle will go on, and everyone will be affected."

Drug abusers. Obviously, these words are negative. When you think of them, they are linked to violence and crime. I have encountered a negative experience with the "rugby boys" before. Me and my friend were walking when we got cornered by kids who were high, and were harrassing us to give them our food, and my wallet. Luckily, some of our guy classmates came to rescue us. This is just one of the negative behaviours that come after being on drugs, and there are other plenty scenarios that are more sensitive than our encounter, such as situations leading to rape and murder.

I know that plenty of us have been affected by these drug abusers so much, that we do not give them the chance to change, because we think they are hopeless and undeserving. I understand where this is coming from, especially if you lost people or even your dignity after being abused by someone under the influence. It is hard to forgive and understand them, and we think of them as irresponsible and "life wasters". Of course, justice shall be and must be rewarded to the offended subjects, but in this post, I would like to dwell on the other side--the drug abuser's side.

I have been dealing with patients who were and still are abusing drugs. If you listen to their stories, they have been through a lot, such as sexual abuse when they were a child by their father and/or brother (leading them to possibly transferring the harmful act to others as a psychological effect). I know what you will say, "I know people who have been there, but they managed to be strong and not depend on other substance to keep them going." Well, maybe that's because they were able to gain good coping skills through the people around them. It could also be because of their personality--they can cope by choosing and using proper resources, plus they may have a good support system, wherein they received help right away. Or maybe they're dealing with it through a more acceptable act by the society, like drinking excessively, which is just the same as abusing drugs, as it also has destructive effects.

We must keep in mind that there are people out there who have weak decision-making & coping skills, as well as a support system, especially if they were traumatized by their past. Usually, they do not have the right people around them to tell them that this is good or this is bad. Aside from the lack of support, they have the external factors that push them to do what should not be done. If these are the kind of people whom they can only run to and trust, then it's the start of their downfall. They are already vulnerable from whatever has caused them to having such addiction, and will continuously be a victim of their own issues.

Also, it could be the composition of their mind and body. Sometimes, there is an imbalance among certain substances and hormones in their body, especially in the brain, that make them think,feel, and act differently beyond their control, wherein they are easily susceptible to the influence of drugs, and during such cases, only medications can manage them. No matter how hard we try to make them understand what we morally think is right, we just couldn't make them because they are not capacitated with the normal physiological factors and mental health that we have.

Everyone is affected by drugs. Whether a user or not, everyone is a victim. It's a two-way process. As a society, we affect them and make them worse with either rejection or harmful acts, and at the same time, we are victims as we are burdened by their behaviour. It will forever be a cycle if we do not act on it by simply understanding the underlying factors that are causing them to dwell on drugs (e.g. bullying), so that we can prevent future drug abusers. Also, help can come in forms of social services, rehabilitation, and promotion of awareness, with focus on healing the cause of such act (e.g. family disputes) to prevent further progression of addiction. They do not mean what they do at times, especially when they are high. There are times that they want to stop, but their body is physiologically dependent on drugs, that if they do not take them, they experience life-threatening symptoms, leading them to continue what they are doing. They could not just stop, and when they do without proper help, they may just die.

They seriously need help. Drug addiction is already a shout for help, and if we keep shutting them off instead of sending them help, drug addiction will continue, and so will the acts that they do which will affect us as a whole. If we help them, we also help ourselves. Remember, they also have loved ones who are deeply wounded by their loss of someone to drugs. We must think of these people too. What if it happens to any of us? What would you want the people around you to do? In the end, basically, everyone deserves a good life--even those who seem to be frowned upon by everyone.

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Addiction should never be treated as a crime. It has to be treated as a health problem. - Ralph Nader

About the Blogger:

Traveliztera a.k.a. Steph is a nurse who has been blogging online since she was 13 years old. She blogs about everything which aims to keep people happy, as she wants everyone to realize that life is worth enjoying. Her blog is "Traveliztera: Randomly Entertaining" which covers any topic that is of positive nature. Since she loves to make people laugh, she also vlogs, sings, and makes crazy video productions on her Youtube channel, under the username "mshypersinger". Everything she does has the goal of just entertaining and spreading happiness. Much love! <3

Guest Post: Sex

2011-12-11T17:13:00.000+08:00

MALICE in Wonderland

I would like to talk to you about sex.

Now, if this is a gallery packed with people with me as the speaker, I’ll probably get oohhs and ahhhs at the mere mention of such frivolous three letter word. Others might give me boos while others will surely choose to leave. And then the people who remain pinned down in their seats will be called perverts and me, their gang leader.

But I’m no sex guru, and by the age of twenty four I hardly got any experience as much as a five year old kid. I’m not even here to talk about the thousand positions the combined Kama Sutra and online websites compiled for the pleasure of couples, even groups. I’m here to ask you, what are the first things that come in your mind by the mere mention of the word sex?

Throughout the course of this millennia, sex has been branded as the devil, the harlot in full red flowing sinful silk, tempting the good and the kind. Sex has been blamed for people's many mischief and deluge of horrors. Last, there was an article here I read which blamed it for marriage's doom. Sex is also blamed for people's sickness. Sex is the cause of early teen pregnancies. Sex is why there are so many gays nowadays. Sex is vile. Sex is corrupt and that sex equates to the devil's fork, sticking in anybody's ass turning everybody sluts and whores.

What most people don't realise is that they're blaming a three letter word thing that doesn't even think for itself. People are forgetting it is our mind, chief among anything, which decides for our person. We think for ourselves therefore we decide for ourselves. We do sex according to our mind play. It is just the mere act, to succumb to its enticing power, to delight in its promised pleasure, the task lies in our hands. The virtue of decision is ours and therefore, whatever end it might brought, we imposed that to ourselves and not sex.

I would like to dispel the common knowledge that sex is vile. It is not. It is our mind that is full of vile, full of stereotypes and full of prejudices. Humans are the one who made it the way it is viewed today. Humans behind religious temples and humans that are so shallow minded that the truth is binded by the few petty things their minds are capable of fathoming.

“To hear many religious people talk, one would think God created the torso, head, legs and arms, but the devil slaps on the genitals,” said a certain Don Shrader. If a person talks about sex, he's definitely a maniac. If a person admits he's engaging in sex, he's a pervert. If a woman is no more a virgin before marriage, she's a slut. And I think many would agree that writers who write about sex, especially in defense of it, is a proven sex addict. Won’t you?

It is normal to think about sex. No one has to worry about it, thinking he’s committing one of the most cardinal sin the man ever had the misfortune of devising. More so, of talking about it. In a symposium for her proposed Reproductive Health Bill, Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago asked her audience, a bunch of college boys and girls, “who isn’t interested in sex?” No one dared raised his/her hand and there were buzz of murmurs from the crowd. And then she spoke once more: “Kung hindi ka interesado magpagamot ka, abnormal yan!” (If you’re not interested, take yourself for a check-up. That’s not normal!”)

Sex is a reality many people pretend to be non-existent. Sex is there whether we like it or not. Every second, every minute of the day across all the dates of the calendar, people are having sex. It is the truth. And truth is inconvertible. Malice may attack it, ignorance may deride it, but in the end, there it is, glaring in full color of reality.

I am not advocating sex. I am not telling people to go strip your clothes and hump everything you'll see or for the boys to go dive straight away under women's skirts. I'm also not saying that we should incorporate talks about sex whenever and whenever we feel wanting to. All I’m saying is there's nothing wrong about talking about, or as with this case, writing about it. Even engaging with the act itself, there's nothing fundamentally wrong about it as long as you know your limitations, your responsibility and the consequences that might follow or might come haunting after. It is about choice. In refusing to talk about it, in slapping on malicious connotations with it, only not hinder the better understanding towards sex especially for the youth, but we're also destroying the honest point about sex.

Now let’s go back to my first question about what comes first upon mention of the word sex. After reading this boorish write-up, compare those thoughts on your current thoughts. If somehow along the way, you stopped and think and instead of being horse headed, you nod and twitch a bit, then probably, somehow, my worth here is proved. If not, then it’s always worth the try.

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"Sex is one of the nine reasons for reincarnation. The other eight are unimportant." - Henry Miller

About the Blogger:

Désolé Boy (pronunciation: day-zo-lay, a French word meaning “sorry”) is a 24 year old full time news writer for ABS-CBN News, part-time television entertainment researcher and production staff and a noob film-maker. A former activist, he writes in a wide range topic from politics to self expression and non-prose. Reliving his former life as a young musician, he now relish the old times playing the piano in his mother's attic, watching operas and supporting young musicians. Color blind, bi-polar on the verge of schizophrenia are few among his known illnesses. He enjoys reading Didion, Larsson, Carroll and Coelho and loves walking barefoot on the sand, contemplating on how painful it would be to die a virgin.

Twitter: desoleboy
Website: Desole Boy
Mail: desoleboy@yahoo.com

Author’s Note:

Many thanks to Leah for allowing me space here, as my blog is on the verge of its self-imposed demolition. Also, compliments to my iBlogger friends. You guys know how much you inspire me, yes? Agreement or disagreement or any way you want to react, don’t be afraid to message me.

Guest Post: Media Influence

2011-12-10T12:10:00.000+08:00

Media Influence

The influence of mass media is a topic discussed over and over again. But the tides have turned and people are becoming smarter about how the media impacts their everyday life. Once upon a time, pictures of rail-thin models could be blamed for young girls developing eating disorders. Now childhood obesity is a raging epidemic in most of the developed world. Years ago, celebrities were admired for their thin physique and strict work ethic. Now, they’re bitterly condemned for portraying something ethereal and unachievable. It’s like a switch has been flicked and society is desperately avoiding conformity by pursuing the exact opposite of what social media dictates.

I understand this is a controversial issue but it’s time to step back and look at what is really happening. Sure, some children still succumb to social pressures to be “perfect” but a far greater majority are overweight and doing nothing about it. Celebrities also face similar crackdowns. When their weight plummets there is an outcry that they’re terrible role models but when their weight fluctuates social commentators immediately jump in gloating. I’m not encouraging anorexia but the current secular trend of obesity is not the way to go either. There needs to be a halfway point.

A while ago, I read an article online that really alarmed me. The winner of an Australian modelling competition was a healthy size 10 (an American size 6) yet the comments were all denouncing the description of her as a “fuller-figured model”. One particular comment stood out to me, a woman claiming that the average woman was a size 16. Since when has being overweight become the norm? In the history of mankind, what happened to make a state of being with increased risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and a severely reduced lifespan be seen as healthy?

People need to wake up and realise the truth. Instead of seeing “them” as too thin and “us” as normal, maybe it’s time to think of it as “them” being slightly underweight and “us” as obese. What has happened to the world to make it so cynical and avoidant of responsibility? So much so that accusing someone of anorexia is an insult yet people tiptoe around the topic of obesity. We need to stop shifting blame from the modelling industry to Hollywood to social media and point it at ourselves. We need to stop attributing perfection to good genes and Photoshop. We need to stop criticising and start doing.

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“The media's the most powerful entity on earth. They have the power to make the innocent guilty and to make the guilty innocent, and that's power. Because they control the minds of the masses.” - Malcolm X

About the Blogger:

Hi there, I’m Cindy and the name of my deliberately misspelt blog is Oriental Expresso. For me blogging is an outlet to vent my feelings and share pictures of the moment without spamming everyone on my facebook newsfeed. I’m a Dentistry student, which might sound kind of boring but it’s actually…yeah not that interesting. My hobbies include eating, shopping and fangirling over various people in the many TV shows I follow obsessively.

Blog: Oriental Expresso
Twitter: @cindyfeng92

Guest Post: Fear of Death

2011-12-08T17:35:00.000+08:00

Death

Psalm 23:4 says: "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."

Yet so many people worry about such small things.

We should live our lives fully and having fun, not filled with worry, because it's all in His hands.

When I was little, after I learned about death, I was terrified of it. But after I learned that I was going to go to a beautiful Kingdom, I never worried about it again. Death isn't meant to be a scary thing, because God will take you when he needs you. He does everything for a reason.

After that, I went through this phase where my only worry was suffering. I had before: deaths, injuries, medical problems, etc. But I watch Joel Osteen every Sunday and I remember one where he discussed how many people worry about everything and how it's in God's hands and I realized that I can sit there and worry and waste my life away, but that's not what God wants and it's not going to change His plans for me.

So maybe this quote isn't proper English, its the truth. All you need is faith and you can do almost anything. Sure, I can pray and pray (and I do!) but God has His plans for me no matter what. So don't waste your life away by worrying about things that aren't in your control.

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The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time. - Mark Twain

About the Blogger:

Hi everyone! I'm Juliet and I blog at www.apurplesky.blogspot.com, a (hopefully) inspirational blog on living life to the fullest, and more! I'm 17 years old and a senior in high school. I am currently looking for a job to help pay for college, but there hasn't been luck so far. I love reading, writing, playing golf, Scotty McCreery, chocolate, and romance. Other celebrity crushes include: Channing Tatum, Taylor Lautner, and Avan Jogia. My favorite movie is Dear John and my I couldn't possibly pick a favorite book! I hope you enjoy my post! :)

Guest Post: Passion Vs. Job

2011-12-07T00:48:00.000+08:00

Passion vs. Job: The Former Can Make You Happier

I envy people who have discovered their passion at such a young age. I salute those who have discovered theirs and worked on them though they’re not in school anymore. I belong to neither groups, but if you’d create a Venn Diagram out of this, I’d be in the overlapping area of the two circles.

I mean, I have discovered my passion, but… (a) I’m old enough for a second course, (b) my job is not in line with my desires and (c) I’m too chicken to work on it. Yes, my alibi-for-not-chasing-my-dream list is as long as I want it to be. I want to become a freelance writer who wants to be read, but it seems too late now. And, okay, don’t laugh, I want to be a popular blogger who earns decent money online. What else? I want to be a WAHM, a work at home mom. I don’t know, but these are my desires.

But, I am an engineer by profession. Maybe I was too uninterested in my life while choosing my course back then. However, what I am doing now in my current work will be something that my college self would love. I don’t know what happened. All of a sudden, I lost my penchant in a lot of things, including my job. In my past blog posts, I have talked of nothing but melancholy, quarter-life crisis symptoms and pep talks for myself.

Work eats up more than a third of your day every weekday and weekends, if you decide to work overtime. Now, that portion is big enough to be an influencer of your daily mood, and in the long run, attitude towards your life. Right? I like my job, but I don’t love love it so much. I’m thinking it would have been fab if my work jived with my desired lifestyle. That way, it’ll just be like partying everyday.

Allow me to suggest some tips on how to eliminate this passion-job conundrum.

Work on your interest, how unique or weird it might be. Those new, modern courses like clothing technology and dog psychology might skyrocket you to fame and fortune. Gone are the days when you get laughed at for wanting to become a painter or a singer. With the eclectic taste of today’s modern people along with technology and social media, you might just turn into the next superstar in a couple of minutes.

Chase your dreams. Drop out of college if you have another brilliant idea in mind. Sorry if you are a parent who got offended by my idea. I finished college. I am just trying to point out something in here. I am talking about Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple. Mark Zuckerberg, founder of Facebook. Steven Spielberg, movie director and producer. Bill Gates, founder of Microsoft. Ralph Lauren, creator of Polo Ralph Lauren. Michael Dell, founder and CEO of DELL. Henry Ford, owner of Ford Motor Company. Rachel Ray, celebrated cook. These amazing people have that passion inside them that they just couldn’t fight against. They need to do something drastic to make their vision become a tangible and rocking thing. They’ve dropped out of school to chase their dreams. And they succeeded.

Turn down a job that you think you wouldn’t enjoy doing. Even if it pays much. Pursuing your dreams takes guts. What happens when you put off your dream and give in to that day job instead? You’ll start to get comfortable with it. You wouldn’t notice that it’s been a year since you’ve stayed on that desk waiting for the clock to strike 4 o’clock everyday so that you can go home and breathe. Before you know it, you’re literally running after your dream -- the distance between you and your dream have augmented over the years.

These are just some tips that I have made up because I do have that passion vs. day job dilemma. I’m glad I’m done with Step One – Figuring what my passion is. Don’t worry, I am on my way to the next level. I am trying to keep a second job that’s in line with my heart’s desire.

How about you? Do you keep your day job just so you can pay the bills?

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“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don't settle." [Stanford commencement speech, 2005]”. - Steve Jobs

About the Blogger.

Miss `C believes that she is a writer in her own little world, but she keeps a day job as an engineer because she has some bills to pay. The dame feels that November kissed her eyes open and now, she’s living the good life. On her current like lists are talking to people for the first time, trying out something new, engaging in girl talks once again, pigging out at Midnight Mercato, kisses on the forehead and brand new contemporary books.

And she just whispered she’d like to meet you. Come have tea with her at her place {blog} Of Scmoozes, mutts and love. And oh, she likes tweets: @aizanity (http://twitter.com/aizanity)

Zach Wahls

2011-12-06T12:11:00.000+08:00

*scheduled post

I saw this video link on Facebook the other night. It was being "shared" almost every hour. I immediately went and searched for it on YouTube. It's about a 19-yeard-old University of Iowa engineering student Zach Wahls, who spoke out against a resolution that would ban gay marriages and civil union. Here is the video and the complete speech.

Good evening Mr. Chairman. My name is Zach Wahls. I’m a sixth-generation Iowan and an engineering student at the University of Iowa and I was raised by two women.

My biological mom, Terry, told her grandparents that she was pregnant, that the artificial insemination had worked, and they wouldn’t even acknowledge it.

It wasn’t until I was born and they succumbed to my infantile cuteness that they broke down and told her that they were thrilled to have another grandson.

Unfortunately, neither of them lived to see her marry her partner Jackie of 15 years when they wed in 2009.

My younger sister and only sibling was born in 1994. We actually have the same anonymous donor so we’re full siblings, which is really cool for me.

Um, I guess the point is our family really isn’t so different from any other Iowa family. You know, when I’m home we go to church together, we eat dinner, we go on vacations. Ah, but, you know, we have our hard times too, we get in fights…you know.

Actually my mom, Terry(Terry Wahls) was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2000. It is a devastating disease that put her in a wheelchair. So we’ve had our struggles.

But, you know, we’re Iowans. We don’t expect anyone to solve our problems for us. We’ll fight our own battles. We just hope for equal and fair treatment from our government.

Being a student at the University of Iowa, the topic of same sex marriage comes up quite frequently in classroom discussions…you know The question always comes down to, well, “Can gays even raise kids?”

In question, you know, the conversation gets quiet for a moment because most people don’t really have an answer. And then I raise my hand and say, “Actually, I was raised by a gay couple, and I’m doing pretty well.”

I scored in the 99th percentile on the A.C.T. I’m actually an Eagle Scout. I own and operate my own small business. If I was your son, Mr. Chairman, I believe I’d make you very proud.

I’m not really so different from any of your children. My family really isn’t so different from yours. After all, your family doesn’t derive its sense of worth from being told by the state: “You’re married. Congratulations.” No.

The sense of family comes from the commitment we make to each other. To work through the hard times so we can enjoy the good ones. It comes from the love that binds us. That’s what makes a family.

So what you’re voting here isn’t to change us. It’s not to change our families, it’s to change how the law views us; how the law treats us. You are voting for the first time in the history of our state to codify discrimination into our constitution, a constitution that but for the proposed amendment, is the least amended constitution in the United States of America.

You are telling Iowans that some among you are second class citizens who do not have the right to marry the person you love.

So will this vote affect my family? Will it affect yours?

In the next two hours I’m sure we’re going to hear plenty of testimony about how damaging having gay parents is on kids.

But in my 19 years, not once have I ever been confronted by an individual who realized independently that I was raised by a gay couple.

And you know why? Because the sexual orientation of my parents has had zero effect on the content of my character.

Thank you very much.

- Zach Wahls

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/center&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

There.

This young man stated and emphasized some excellent points. He is living proof that a gay couple can raise a kid and have him become a great member of the society. It is just disheartening that ignorance and discrimination are dominant in our times, but this kid carried the message of equality - to be able to love freely, without worry or hesitation and be with the one we love, regardless of gender.

But this is just me. You may agree with me and Zach. Or not. That's just fine. Feel free to share your views. What do you think?

Do read this guest post: Gay Rights

Guest Post: Gay Rights

2011-12-05T12:05:00.000+08:00

GAY RIGHTS in the Philippines

I’d like to showcase how gay rights are currently being treated in this country, the Philippines. I got no professional advocacy to my sector, however, I feel strongly for the rights, I being one of them. I’d like to discuss three important aspects of gay rights. My parameters only include Right of Marriage, Equal Opportunity and Right to Self-Identity. I’ve read and participated debates on gay rights back in college. Some of my arguments below are still the same thoughts and principles I hold. I am not an expert in Human Rights, but I am an expert on my own self, my own humble discourse.

Thanks Leah for the opportunity to deliver.

RIGHT OF MARRIAGE

Civil Code of the Philippines explicitly defines marriage as “union of man and woman.” (Article 1 of the Family Code of the Philippines - Marriage is a special contract of permanent union between a man and a woman entered into in accordance with law for the establishment of conjugal and family life. It is the foundation of the family and an inviolable social institution whose nature, consequences, and incidents are governed by law and not subject to stipulation, except that marriage settlements may fix the property relations during the marriage within the limits provided by this Code.) Legitimacy thereof is never to be compounded by two individuals of the same biologically nature in terms of sex. The straightforward spirit of the law has been challenged by some of LGBT proponents. They argue that marriage should never be restricted to straight couples only. They also add that as human beings, they are of the same capacity to love and nurture a family. According to them, whatever your sexual preference is, you have the propensity to rear a family. After all, it is not your sexual preference that should dictate your ability to raise children.

Catholic dogma has always been stern in the issue of gay marriages. As a country densely populated by Catholicism, we have been a witness to the institution’s condemnation to marrying of same sex. Not only that, majority of the religion in the country is not in favor and will never have that inkling to affirm. Sanctity of marriage for them lies in ensuring that they unite couples who are psychologically, emotionally and biologically relevant.

Knowing those two basic arguments pertaining to this right, many can make a stand and many will choose to not heed, at least here in our country. I can think of several countries who have already espoused same sex marriage and most of them are the most developed countries. We can take note of several states in the US that have already legalized same sex marriage.

There have been innumerable discourses appended to right to marriage for LGBT. Such discourses aimed to ensure people are educated and are ready to take a stand. Some were successful in garnering the right and implemented a policy, some just perpetuated with no clear destination or resolution.

Looking at our culture and how we adapt to the changes of the world, we are miles away from embracing same sex marriage. Remember divorce? Several bills in both Philippine Congress and Senate has been passed but has never been ratified into a law. Just imagine how same sex marriage bill will survive in the same milieu, are Filipinos ready yet to embrace it? Your guess is as good as mine.

Marriage is a gift from God. Sadly to note, it has underlying limitations.

Civil union in most British colonies has been a well known recourse. Albeit it has the requisites of marriage, their legal system included margins, hence the limit to basic rights accorded to the gay couple.

There were unifying ceremonies here in the country but were not recognized in the civil records. They are just blandly ceremonies and the bond solely limited to the couple’s agreement.

What are the repercussions of same sex marriage and why is it not fully embraced? Implementing same sex marriage causes a ripple effect to our laws. That seems to be the most outstanding issue of all. It will require amendments in the Constitution as it will require drastic changes upon Civil and Penal Code. From hindsight, we expect how Congress and Senate will react, and I know that like me, you know too well that it will take ages.

Culturally, our country is also not prepared. Religion has been a set-back and families are still conventional. You can ask your mom and dad if they are in favor of same-sex marriage, and I am sure that majority will say no. Some will say yes, but are hoping not to happen in their own families. Expect a scrawny support to the philosophy.

If for any consolation, we Filipinos are accorded the right to travel and the right to choose. Few gay Filipino couples have exercised these two basic rights and flew to countries which can legalize their unions. They’re BLESSED to afford such step, SMART that they choose to live a life of prosperity and acceptance in other countries.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Let me tell you a story. I used to work for a bank. This bank boasts of being the first universal type of bank in the Philippines. Universal type, because it uses different platforms to service customers. They are the first to utilize internet banking. Modern, sleek, and fits the taste of the younger generation.

In this facade of modern look, lies beneath the very conventional employee culture of the banking industry. They abhor homosexuality. The slightest clue of the fact can lead you dismissal.

I was a bank teller, and I was happy enjoying the company of my co-employees of the branch. One day though, I was invited for a meeting with the VP of Human Resources. We were in the Board Room, and I remember the excitement I had because of the honor of being invited by no less than a person of significant role in the company. I was the only one in the room, coffee was served and I have no hunch of what this meeting was all about. Friends told me, it might be a promotion or a transfer. Some says it might be recognition for a job well done in one of our valued customers.

I didn’t know I was in big trouble.

VP explained to me briefly of several incidents of branch anomalies whose main characters are gays. These are gays who stole money from branch operations to finance a lover. He was interrogating me if I was gay, and if I have a lover. I was on the verge of passing my resignation letter, but I thought it was surrendering and admission that gays working on banks are generally robbers.

I answered back proving that my sexual orientation is not detriment to the company’s success. I’m here to hone my skills and work with all honesty and fairness. I love working with people and it was a privilege that after graduating, I’ve landed this job because of my inherent potential, intelligence and psychological capacity, proven by their assessment process.

They transferred yours truly to ATM operations, and have been instrumental to the growth of the department. I was given responsibility which heavily lies on crediting money – just like being a teller. I was trained to deal with customers and to deal with pressure but with grace.

Years from that experience I realized that I shouldn’t feel bad about the interrogation and the transfer. It was a blessing in disguise. I left branch operations and gave me the break to enhance my skill for future BPO career. I felt that the company was after my rights and didn’t fire me just because of my sexual orientation. Sad fact is, I realized that being a forefront to any financial institution it conventionally requires presentable people who can conduct themselves as straight individuals. Currently it’s still the same culture.

Opportunities should be endless to any individuals, as for my case, I fought for it. Challenges to opportunities clearly separate the straight and the LGBT group. I think the social stigma and the conventions of the business dictate what an individual can do. However, for straights, the only thing they can think of is just honing the skills and for the LGBT, and added challenge of trying to cross the threshold of the basic norms, which I’ve undergone.

THE RIGHT TO SELF-IDENTITY

It’s been a sad circumstance for those transgender that have to undergo a very rigorous process in the immigration of other countries which are still leaning towards conservatism. There are noted instances when they have to prove to immigration officers their biological genders because their documents like passports can lead to conspicuous confusions. Those that are fortunate enough to undergo what they call “gender reassignment” procedure can battle it out in the courts of the land to amend the public records, but this seems to be a long and tedious process and not all can have the luxury to afford.

Not all will have the guts to tell the whole world what their sexual orientations are. It shouldn’t be an issue in the first place if not conventions and other normalcies are set in the workplace, academe, government and the church.

Identity is what you tell and label yourself and not what the society states. It should transcend public documents; it should transcend to everyone’s beliefs and traditions. It should not be absolute, however the older generation should know better and should comprehend that as human being, it is a right to determine one self and we all have the obligation to uphold.

MY SOLID THOUGHTS

Some may not agree with me in saying that rights here in the Philippines are often accorded to the rich. Easy access to rights is easily granted to those that can afford, those that can pay and those that have powers to be able to have counsels before the courts of the land.

It’s a sad state of affairs for the members of the LGBT in this country. All can just hope for an alter-foreboding scheme of things that can, and will form cataclysm in the forefront of gay rights.

We are all in saying though that tradition and convention changes over the years. If one thing is illegal on a certain period of time, it can turn-tables and be accepted decades after. LGBT rights may have transformed over the years, but we are not so sure as to how this group of people will survive over decades. It’s a joy to note that we saw some countries embracing the rights of everyone (including LGBT), until then we can just hope of a globally accepted sector of humanity.

The Philippines being a democratic country still has a long way to go. Confusing legal system and a rotten bureaucracy are some of the things that can aggravate and hinder massively the claim of this sector in this society. Will there be a chance for same sex marriage in the Philippines? I really don’t think so. It’ll never happen. It’s like asking graft and corruption to bring halt in the administration. It’s like asking for a miracle than even heavenly bodies will surely exhibit some raised eyebrows.

My suggestion is, if we really want to experience for ourselves gay rights being implemented and respected, you should find abode in countries where we are seeing a more modern approach, and where we are seeing a government that recognizes the rights of the people. A country with strong justice system, a government that knows how to use people’s money for the betterment of their economy and country in general, a non-homophobic country and a nation where everyone is as significant to their country’s growth and development.

If you wish to maintain to live in this country and redeem for gay rights, you might just as well stop. You can just bark all throughout the day, but I’m sure your throat will just hurt. You might as well just plant camote. That’s the sad reality in this country.

As for me, I’d rather just keep my mouth shut, and look for better asylum. It’s just a hopeless case.

- Leo

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It always seemed to me a bit pointless to disapprove of homosexuality. It's like disapproving of rain. - Francis Maude

My sexual preference is my choice and mine, alone. Respect. - Author Unknown

About the Blogger:

Leo is the author of Finding Leo, who started out as a Wordpress blogger since 2009 but utilized the blogger platform only last year, 2010. He’s 31 years old, currently in a relationship with his more than five years life-partner, Nimmy. An ex-BPO professional, he quitted his job to pursue farming and got bored after seeing a water buffalo happily bathing on a pool of mud. He loves reading self-help books and finds John Maxwell as a long lost dad. Saturdays for him is dedicated for Badminton and MWF are for carwash. You can follow him in twitter, @Leomer.

Guest Post: Goodbyes

2011-12-04T15:15:00.000+08:00

Goodbyes

At some point in our lives, we have to say goodbye to people we love. It's hard, especially when you spent countless hours sitting in a packed classroom with them! Yes, I'm talking about leaving high school.

During exams, all we wanted was for it to end. We wanted to run out of the study room and do anything but sit huddled together with friends, books scattered all over the desks. Believe it or not, I actually miss those times. Even though we had the pressure of an upcoming exam, meeting up early to 'study' gave us a good excuse to spend more time together. It's funny how the same people who were so desperate to be over with high school are now missing it so much.

Whether it be to high school friends, or just anyone who means something to you, we've all had to say goodbye some point in our lives. Sometimes it's to people we won't be seeing for a few months and at other times, to people who we'll most likely never come across again. Some goodbyes happen overtime, and some are so sudden that you really wonder how time flew by so fast. No matter what, it's just one of those unavoidable aspects of life.
My high school ended last year, but most of my close friends are still around, some have even joined the same college as me. But now the time has come, we are already finishing our A'levels and though we try to avoid it, we know in the back of our heads that it is time to say goodbye. Sure, we might see each other a few times a year, but it won't be the same after we head off our own ways for university.

I've been thinking about this and I know it's going to be tough. I hate change. I try to tell myself that sometimes it's for the better. That we have to say goodbye to some people, so that we can say hello to others. They say change is the only constant in life, and I'm starting to believe that. Looking back, my life was so different last year than it is now. And this tells me that next year, my life will be completely changed from what it is. It's scary to think about these things, because you never know what to expect in your future. Sometimes it's good not to know, because that's what life is about, learning to deal with everything thrown your way.

We have to accept that things change, we can't help it. People come and go out of our lives. We fall in and out of love. We build friendships which sometimes fall apart. We have good days and bad ones. It's life. Sometimes it will hurt you and other times it will make you laugh. But its how you learn from those changes that make you who you are.

So where is the good in goodbye? I think saying goodbye to people is what reminds you not to take anyone or anything for granted. And it's good if you're saying it to someone who has hurt you before, it shows that you're letting go of the past. In my case, I have to make sure that I try my best to remain in contact with my friends, no matter how far away they may be from me. Because these are the people who I've shared some of the best times of my life with. Knowing that I have to say goodbye to them makes me appreciate their existence so much more!

- PurpleMist

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"Can miles truly separate you from friends... If you want to be with someone you love, aren't you already there?"- Richard Bach

About the Blogger:

Hi, I'm PurpleMist. Why the weird name? Because I like 'purple' and 'mist' just makes me sound mysterious. I think. Anyways, I'm a 17-year-old wannabe writer who is in a love and hate relationship with my novel. Mostly hate because its always on my mind and distracts me from everything else. I also like to read, and sometimes I write book reviews, but usually i'm too lazy to do that. I love quotes which I can relate to and I also draw or doodle, especially in classes with boring lecturers. I'm just about to finish college and I have no idea what I want to do for the rest of my life. But i'll figure it out, eventually.

I blog about whatever is on my mind and I love to do it. Oh, and as my blog name suggests, I'm a complete insomniac :)

Blog: Insomnia Strikes

Guest Post: Expectations

2011-12-02T18:31:00.000+08:00

Expectations

There are so many things people expect from other people. There are things that are expected out of family, friends and significant others. We expect certain things to be done for us, kind words to be said when we most need it and when people fail to do the things we expect out of them, we get mad and disappointed.

You know what's worst? When we expect a person do to something or say something yet we don't give hints to what we want them to do or say (or don't want them to do). People aren't mind readers after all, what kind of result do you think you're going to get? Not good ones, I assure you. So please stop frowning and moaning over what that or this person did to you, if you haven't even told them that those things really do hurt you.

If we stopped expecting things from people, we'd stop hurting so much. That gut wrenching feeling wouldn't hurt as much. If we didn't put high expectations to everything a person does, it wouldn't be a major disappointment when that person is no longer able to "please our expectations".

Well either way, William Shakespeare said it best: "Expectation is the root of all heartache."

It no longer hurts that badly if a friend or a significant other (not that I ever had a significant other - but this post isn't about my nonexistent love life) does something that I wouldn't approve of or disappoint me, because I no longer expect things out of them.

One could argue that that's not something good; we should always expect the best out of people. But the thing is, I don't expect the worst out people either. I'm...well I'm not sure what I am but the thing is, when we put our own expectations of others on the shelf, life is going to be so much better.

I'm just saying. If you stop always expecting things out of people, it wouldn't feel like life is always fucking you over with all these disappointments.

- Mona

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"When one's expectations are reduced to zero, one really appreciates everything one does have." - Stephen Hawking

“Blessed is he who expects nothing, for he shall never be disappointed.” - Alexander Pope

About the Blogger:

I'm Mona. Sixteen-years-old but it ain't sweet *snap* ;) I live in Norway and I'm willingly unemployed boyaaah! nah, I'm lying. Nobody wants to hire me. The way to my heart is through my stomach, I love food. And gingers and the Irish accent. I actually don't know what else there is to say so....*awkward pause* bye!

Blog: Conceal Your Thoughts
Twitter: @Munsay

Pictures and Plans

2011-12-01T20:11:00.000+08:00

It is not the place.. but the people you're with..

that makes a simple trip into a grand adventure worth remembering. ♥

♥

Update:

Ei, guys. I need to finish some work before this year ends. I'm gonna switch off my net modem, because honestly, I can't get any work done with the internet on! LOL. But just for a few days. Of course, I'd still be on Twitter at night.. but I have my PRIORITIES set! So, there. Oh, Christmas vacation's just around the corner! I have lots of plans, which includes hanging out with my family and some good friends. That means, with all the work completed, I still can't spend much time in front of my laptop, because I'll be busy eating Christmas goodies and singing carols and giving/receiving gifts. Hehe.

My Guest Post series will still be on. Scheduled posts, they will be. I can't visit my favorite blogs, as well. But I will try to do so once I do get "online". I do hope that my guest articles would still gain reactions and comments, eventhough I'm not here to promote them. I will be putting a lot of faith on my readers' love for me and my blog.

Aw. Will you miss me? I do hope so. Because I am missing you already!

Merry Christmas, everybody! ♥

Guest Post: Racial Discrimination

2011-11-30T17:22:00.000+08:00

Racial Discrimination

Racism is the belief that inherent different traits in human racial groups justify discrimination. In the modern English language, the term "racism" is used predominantly as a pejorative epithet. It is applied especially to the practice or advocacy of racial discrimination of a pernicious nature (i.e. which harms particular groups of people), and which is often justified by recourse to racial stereotyping or pseudo-science.

"Racism" and "racial discrimination" are often used to describe discrimination on an ethnic or cultural basis, independent of their somatic (i.e. "racial") differences. According to the United Nations conventions, there is no distinction between the term racial discrimination and ethnicity discrimination.

But have you ever felt how it’s like to be discriminated, have you ever felt how it’s like to be the last priority, where in you have to watch every step that you make because one might got offended by your act or somebody is watching over you and patiently waiting that you will make any mistake so that they can laugh at you and you have to do your best just to fit in?

2001, the year I graduated from college in AMACLC, it’s natural for every student to look for a job after graduation, every student will dream to find a job, a job that would put him/her to the top of his chosen career, everyone is busy with their own moves, apply dito, apply doon, and I was one of those who stand in line in the Job Fair, I was one of those thousands of newly graduated student or million if we included the whole wide world who is hoping to land a job in any of the vacancies in the Job Fair.

Scenario One.

Job Fair. I submitted my resume to this lady who really looks nice and pretty, she’s seems to be harmless.

Lady: “Yoru name is?”
Me: “Aldisher Diwallay”
Lady: “You graduated in?”
Me: “AMA CLC”
Lady: “No experience yet?”
Me: “I just graduated ma’am”
Lady: “You are a Muslim?”
Me: “YES (So proud)”
Lady: “We will just call you back.”

She folded my resume and kept it inside her drawer, how is that? Every resume she receive she put it in an active files while mine she keep it inside her drawer? What’s that supposed to mean.

Scenario Two.

Shopper’s Central. One of the leading supermarket in Zamboanga City, every six months they open their door to all the aspiring programmer who can work on Visual Basic, Visual C++, Oracle and everything that they using in their system. When I learned that they have hiring again, without hesitate I submitted my resume to them.

The guard is talking to me in Chavacano (our local dialect in Zamboanga)

Guard: “Cosa tu nombre?” (Your name is)
Me: “Aldisher Diwallay”
Guard: “Onde tu ya gradua?” (You graduated in).
Me: “AMA CLC”
Guard: “Tiene ya tu ekspireyasa? (No experience yet)
Me: “Ara pa lang yo ya gradua (I just graduated)”
Guard: “Cosa tu?, Muslim tu? (What are you, a Mulsim?)”
Me: “Si (so proud)”
Guard: “Llama lang kame contigo ole, espera lang tu di amum llamada. (We’ll just call you back, just wait for our call)”

The guard kept my resume in his drawer and the secretary never called back, how is that, every applicant who applied in their company they let them in, but me!!! NEVER DID.

Fast Forward:

Scenario Three.

Taxi, one of the most common public utility vehicles in the Philippines, I take a cab from my dorm to the air port, the driver is so entertaining, he was asking me too many question and I am also answering every question he asked to me. UNTIL.

Driver: “Boss saan ang probinsya mo?” (where is your province).
Me: “Bakit po?” (Why).
Driver: “Kasi may punto ka eh” (You have an accent).
Me: “Ahhhh!!! Zamboanga City po”.
Driver: “Bisaya?” (Bisaya is one of the native in the Philippines).
Me: “Tausug po” (My Native Races).
Driver: “Muslim?”
Me: “YES” (Very Proud)”

The driver started to shut his mouth and never say a thing until we arrived to the air port. Oh Yeah!!! In the Philippines once somebody will say you have an accent means you are not a native Tagalog speaker, it could be your tagalong is too hard, or too soft, a real manileñeo accent is very straight and when they speak they speak fast. That’s why the driver noticed that I am not originally from Manila. Because I have an accent, my tagalog is very hard.

Most of the time people from Manila, if they heard that I am a Muslim they immediately change their approach to me, or somehow put a barrier in between, they somehow change the way they treat me, weather it is for good or bad, still they put barrier in front of me.

But somehow through the years, I have overcome the fear of mingling with other people, I have learned how to deal with it, learning to manage yourself in front of other people is a must if you belong to some indigenous ethnics, because surely you will feel that there is somehow a racism going on, but of course I am not saying all the time and all the people from Manila or Luzon, because I think right now, people from Luzon are now becoming used with other ethnics group.

But did you know that people who grew up in the city also experience discriminations when they visit a province, for example a Manileñia is having a nice vacation in Zamboanga, did you know that almost all the people from province thought that all Manileñias are liberated and somehow easy to get, you know what I mean, madaling maikama, well that is already racism (at least for me)….

- Al

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"The only difference between man and man all the world over is one of degree, and not of kind, even as there is between trees of the same species. Where in is the cause for anger, envy or discrimination?" - Mahatma Gandhi

About the Blogger:

Al Diwallay works as a Junior IT Specialist at SABIC K.S.A. (Saudi Basic Industries Co.). He lives in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia but he Hails from Zamboanga City, Philippines. He knows Filipino, English Malay and Arabic. He loves writing and also enjoys doing magic.

Blog: Mga Sulat ni Al Diwallay
Twitter: @musingan

Guest post: Online Bullies

2011-11-25T18:26:00.000+08:00

"Those who can, do, those who can't, bully"

In the past, those who were bullied at school or at work had the comfort of knowing that at home they would be safe and free of their tormentors. Unfortunately, the evolution of technology i.e. the creation of social networking sites means that they do not even have this small luxury anymore.

Instead, they now get bullied online as well which, I think is unbelievably cruel. I hate how social networking sites have been tainted by this dispicable act. Bullies are weak and narrow-minded, usually picking on someone because they are "different" which shows just how pathetic they are.

Social networking sites were great in that they allowed people to express their individuality and share their interests. Instead, bullies use their online profiles against them. Judging and scoffing them at every chance they get which of course causes their victims to become self-conscious, depressed or even potentionally suicidal.

Like so many others out there, I was bullied when I was at school. It was tough going at school but even harder knowing that the abuse was continuing online, outside of school. People always told me to ignore it and not to go online but that was impossible because in a strange way, I HAD to know what they were saying about me. It's hard to explain but I'm sure most of you understand my reasons.

Although there are better privacy settings now on these social networking sites, it will never end the cruelty that is online bullying. Trust me, bullies will find a way round them because they are and always will be cowards.

Love, Hazel

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“Never be bullied into silence. Never allow yourself to be made a victim. Accept no one's definition of your life, but define yourself.” - Harvey S. Firestone

"Bullying consists of the least competent most aggressive employee projecting their incompetence on to the least aggressive most competent employee and winning." - Anonymous

About the Blogger:

My guest Blogger is Hazel from Pablo's Angel. She's twenty and hails from Northern Ireland making her both British and Irish. Fun Facts include: she hates sleeping with her feet covered and has a bizarre American lilt to her accent. She's a very interactive blogger in that she always replies to her comments and updates regularly. She's also a self-confessed geek who loves Harry Potter and Twilight equally. Feel free to follow her over at Pablo's Angel.

Baguio City

2011-11-24T05:42:00.000+08:00

November 24-27, 2011.

I will invade Baguio City. Yipee! It has been 21 years since I've been to Baguio and I'm so excited to go back.

FYI. The Philippines is located just above the equator. We only have 2 distinct seasons: Wet and Dry. In a tropical country where it is hot and humid all the time (except for the Monsoon/Wet Season), what better way to spend your vacation than, travelling with some friends and experiencing the beauty of nature and the cool air of Baguio.

The city is called the summer capital of the Philippines, due to its mild climate. It is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the country. It is also called the City of Pines because of the abundance of pine tree varieties on hills and mountains.. and even on both sides of the road. If you wanna see a very beautiful scenery while taking a breathe of the cool mountain air, Baguio is the place to be.

Okay. So i'll be gone for a few days. My Guest Post series is still up. I still have lots of guest posts lined up, and you can still send me some e-letters (newlife @ hotmail.ph). I will get back to you as soon as I get online.

Yep. I will be back on track before you even know it. In the meantime, you could check out these wonderful guest articles I've already published. Awesome posts by awesome people.

Honesty - Razz

Feminism - Furree Katt

Marriage and Divorce - Nas

Unrequited Love - Ishashime

Learning and Education - Mark

Domestic Violence - Mayen

The Blame Game - Sey

That's it. All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go.. Baguio, here I come! They say it's FREAKIN' COLD there right now. I'd better bring some winter clothes with me. Hehe.

TTFN!

Oh, and Happy Thanksgiving, everybody! ♥

Guest Post: The Blame Game

2011-11-23T02:38:00.000+08:00

The Quality of Education: Who's to blame?

I had practiced the teaching profession and until now, that passion is still running through my veins. If and only I am a rich lady, I will never leave the profession I love the most. Yes, I am guilty of abandoning my mission in life and guilty of turning my back to the vows I made to mold the minds of the youths. Someday, I know leaving the profession would be one of my biggest regrets.

If people get sad every now and then when they hear the quality of education in our country gets worst day after day, imagine how the heart of a teacher feels.

The success and failure of the quality of education in our country is not just a product of one factor but a combination of different denominators that should be working together hand in hand. One factor always receives the blame because people fail to open their eyes to the reality that they themselves failed to do their part.

By different denominators I mean: government, schools, teachers, parents and students. Let me point out the shortcomings so we should all be vigilant not only in watching their mistakes but to watch ourselves as well.

The Government: If the government is a human being, I can visualize him. He’s not perfect, prone to mistakes and his body full of bruises. Bruises from all the foul words and blames due to his inability and failure to provide the children with complete descent class rooms, books and teachers. We’re aware of that fact decades ago but are we aware enough to see what it had done? Classrooms were built on public schools, books delivered for a new school year but which didn’t suffice because of the fact that a new looming set of generation were also added to the school’s population.

Schools: Schools fail to do their part when the authorities involve never reach out to the people around.

How can they motivate their teachers to work hard if they were left pulling all the resources they have (personal resources) and in the end rewarding them with late pay checks (which is a common scenario in private schools). Mismanagement of resources would lead to the failure of the whole institution.

Teachers: If there are dedicated teachers, sad to say there are those who perform the duty to teach to earn a living. It’s not a high paying job but at least it will save you from starving yourself. There are sacrifices to be made and if they don’t take the profession by heart, they should quit at once before they end up like those who made their student’s copy 10 pages of lectures while they are busy reading newspapers, send students in the garden to pick out the grass, collect money for a project which the students never saw.

One reason they act like that was the school’s/government’s failure to reach out to them and for their needs.

Teachers, you’re working on the precious mind of the youth, why do you let them suffer just because of your selfishness? If you’re not happy with what you’re doing and with whom you’re working with, QUIT. You have the reason to complain if you perform your duty well.

Parents: Other parents thought once they bought their children’s school supplies and paid their tuition fees, their work is done. I as a teacher find it difficult to deal with parents who are more stubborn than their children. No matter how you talk to them and remind them to always watch their children’s studies and failing grades, they will always pass the blame to the teachers.

I often talk to students before. Their usual reason why they don’t want to pay attention to their studies is to get the attention of their parents who are so busy making a living but fails to make a life for their children.

So parents think twice. Teachers aren’t perfect and so are you.

Students: Cutting classes, assignments left undone and books unopened. I always hear students complaining about their teacher because they thought she’s not an authority to what she teaches. They got bored because their teacher was using the old version of transmitting knowledge and the result, they don’t attend their subjects anymore. What a pity to those who never gave their teachers a second chance. They might be boring today, but tomorrow is a new day. How could they do their task if the students were not there for them to work at?

They waste their time on video games, night life and other boisterous activities and afterwards will blame their teachers for their failing grades. Nice job kid. You have a long way to go.

Now who’s to blame?

Instead of pointing our fingers to somebody, let’s start the change and encourage others to follow.

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"An educational system isn't worth a great deal if it teaches young people how to make a living but doesn't teach them how to make a life." - Author Unknown

"Praise or blame has but a momentary effect on the man whose love of beauty in the abstract makes him a severe critic on his own works." - John Keats

About the Blogger:

Hello everyone, I'm Sey from 14th Street. I blog about my boring life, my adventures, mistakes and the lessons I learned. I want to travel and if will be given the chance, I will visit the historical places in the world. I am a teacher by profession but currently working as a sales consultant for an IT company which specializes in data recovery, software development, wed design and consulting. How did a teacher became a consultant was such a long and different story.

Leah asked me to do a guest post today for which I am thankful because I will be given the chance to air my views...thanks Leah! I will not blab more about myself and bore you, after reading my views, feel free to share yours.

You can also follow me on Twitter and Google +

Guest Post: Domestic Violence

2011-11-20T09:07:00.000+08:00

Heaven and Hell

Hello lovely readers of Super Leah. I'm Mayen and I blog over at Clicks and Cuts. I’m so glad to be your acquaintance today and hopefully someday we become good friends. When our dear friend here, invited me to guest blog, I feel honored. Wouldn't you if you were invited by awesome Ms. Leah herself? I bet you’ll say yes.

Now, I am going to talk about our little heaven and hell here on Earth. Intrigued? I hope so.

To most of us, home is where we feel the safest and where our loved one resides. Often we call it our little heaven on Earth. Unfortunately, there are others who call their home hell. Hell, because once they step on their front door, they know Satan is waiting to make them suffer again and again.

It’s not uncommon to us that violence is present in some families. Daughters being raped by their father, wife being beaten to death by her husband, son being molested by his father or other male members of the family, the scenario is endless. Yet, we cannot tell for sure by just looking at a person if he/she is abusive or not. Same goes with the victims of abuse, often, we cannot tell, if someone is in an abusive situation or not. People involved in this circumstances varies from poor to rich, uneducated to educated, nobody to famous or good looking to not so good looking. In other words, anyone can be abusive or victims of abuse.

Can you tell who among your peers, co-workers or co-church goers, call their home hell? Or can you tell who among them Satan is? Not until they tell you outright, or announced the world that they are. However, I’m sure none among them will tweet saying..

"Done raping my daughter #crossfingers, she wouldn't tell anyone"
"I beat my #wife @liza to death last night. Find out more on today's blog post http//ou.ka."
"My husband @akoni0609 just finished burning my legs with iron #mayherotinhell”.
The point is, to this day, when our society is becoming more and more liberated and people are becoming more open about their lives, the issue of violence in the family is still being hushed up. There are several reasons people involved, especially victims, kept quiet about it. One is fear. Yet, fear is connected to many things.

Fear of bringing shame to the family and to themselves.
Fear of another family member being hurt if they tell.
For most wife, fear of leaving their children in the hands of their abusive husband in case she decided to leave the marriage.
Fear for her and her children’s security, because her husband is the sole bread winner.
Fear of being killed by their perpetrator if they tell.

Another common reason for keeping quiet while they endure abuse is that, they are still hoping that a miracle will come their way and stop the abuse. However, an abusive person almost always does not stop. They are exceptionally apologetic when they feel guilty though, but as soon as their patience is put to test they will snap again in no time.

There are studies that conclude most abusers were also victims themselves during childhood. Therefore, brings this social issue into a cycle. Unless someone stop abusing the members of their family, the cycle will goes on and on. Who knows, one of you might fall into the hands of an abusive person.

I would like to share this information, I found online years ago that will help you, especially women, to determine whether your current partner (boyfriend, fiancée, and husband) is potential abuser. However, I don’t eliminate the fact that there are some men who also suffer from abuse. Men can also benefit from this information. Before we proceed, let me just tell you that there are 2 types of abuse, verbal abuse and physical abuse.

You have to remember that abusive person is often, passionate, supportive and madly in-love with you but with negative characteristic such as these:

How to determine if your Partner is Abusive before He Actually Hurt You

From this Link: http://www.ilrctbay.com/upload/custom/abuse/content/abusers.htm

Irrational and baseless jealousy
Keeps track of what you are doing all the time and criticizes you for little things.
Prevents or discourages you from seeing friends or family, or going to work or school.
Gets angry when drinking alcohol or using drugs.
Humiliates you in front of others.
Destroys your property or things that you care about.
Threatens to hurt you or your pets, or does cause hurt (by hitting, punching, slapping, kicking, or biting).
Uses or threatens to use a weapon against you.
Forces you to have sex against your will.
Blames you for his/her violent outbursts.
Easily gets angry and shouts at people who he thinks has lower statute in life (driver, maid, waiter or guards)

If your current partner possesses a lot of these characteristics, maybe you should consider getting out of the relationship as early as now. If you are already in an abusive situation you should get help now or tell someone you trust and ask for his/her help. There are several organizations that assist women and children survivors of violence. You should act now before it’s too late. Give yourself a chance to find your little heaven on earth and leave Satan to rot in hell.

In Social worker’s or to people who work to eliminate domestic violence, once a person come out from an abusive situation, even if he/she is still on the process of healing, we already consider her/him survivor. The world survivor alone can create a sense of pride to a person from abusive situation, which happens to almost lost his/her worth because of the abuse he/she endured.

I hope you learn something from this. I’m sorry if I gave you a long read today. I can’t help it. I want so badly for abuse to stop that’s why I tried to share as much as I can about domestic violence.

Remember, every person has worth and dignity and nobody has the right to take it away from them.

- Mayen

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"There are more pleasant things to do than beat up people." - Muhammad Ali

About the Blogger:

I'm Mayen, engaged, currently in a long distance relationship and I am a licensed social worker. I know that doesn't sound as good as engineer or architect or doctor, but it's a profession that's also requires 4 years in college and a license in order to practice. I just thought I’d share that information since, a lot of people are not aware of that fact. I love reading novels, eat sweets, I can dance but I can't sing and I create beaded accessories. Well, it's pretty hard squeezing all the words that describe me in one paragraph. Nonetheless, I have a blog that will tell you more about me, in case, you want to get to me better. I am looking forward to get to know you all as well! See you at Clicks and Cuts? Yes? Perfect!

Guest Post: Learning and Education

2011-11-18T00:25:00.000+08:00

Educational Guest Post

I've talked before on my own blog about the subject of education. So I'm going to see what I can do about it on this blog. A totally unnecessary thank you to Leah first of all though for allowing me to do this. I was always taught to be nice to women, so I actually suppose that is not totally unnecessary, and is slightly related to the subject of education.

See, education, and learning, doesn't stop at school, not by a long shot. I've made some things on that quite clear. I want compulsory school education to end at 14. In this country (England) at 14 you pick certain subjects, and do those, while still doing the mandatory English, Maths and Science. I actually didn't do that great at English literature (writing) and look at me now, I have a blog where many praise me for my writing skills, and I've written a few short stories and am working on a longer story.

I think instead that at fourteen you should be able to go into a trade school. School is not for everyone, so if you take those people, and put them in say, mechanical school, get them in garages and learning other skills, such as how to maintain cars, or other trade schools. Like plumbing.

Another thing you learn at school is social skills. You learn how you should deal with people (though some schools do this wrong). Your time at school can really define you as a person.

I like how I started by saying that education doesn't end at the end of school, and intended to keep going like that, but in the end didn't. Learning is something that goes on all through your life. Inside and outside of school. So remember, don't ever assume you know everything. You might know a lot, but there's still a lot you don't know.

Remember again, the path to true knowledge is knowing that you know nothing. I don't know if that's actually how it goes, which means I'm closer to knowing everything than you.

- Mark

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"Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school." - Albert Einstein

"An educational system isn't worth a great deal if it teaches young people how to make a living but doesn't teach them how to make a life." - Author Unknown

"A child educated only at school is an uneducated child." - George Santayana

About the Blogger:

My name is Mark Noyce. I'm not going to share too much information about myself, I like to keep people guessing about my age, it ranges from 13-25. I hail from United Kingdom. My hobbies include playing games, occasionally reading, blogging and finding TV shows to become obsessed with. I'm currently volunteering at a Barnardo's store. My Twitter is @Ramblingperson. I have a fair few opinions on a fair few things I hope to share with whoever shall read my blog The Rambling Person.

Guest Post: Unrequited Love

2011-11-15T12:31:00.000+08:00

Unrequited Love

Waddup!

My name is Isha Shekinah, but in the blogosphere, I'm pretty much known as "ishashime". I actually like blogging, even though it was a spur of the moment thing for me. I also like to fit it in between studying (barely) at UP Manila. I'm 18 and a third year speech pathology student (google this!) at the aforementioned university. I don't even know how I'm surviving (but I am, by some form of divine intervention, so yay for that). Anyway, I'm pretty much in my element when I'm laughing and making people laugh. It's my thing, you know? The rest of the time I'm either eating, being weird or drawing in Paint. Also, I suck big time at introductions, so on to my guest post, eh?

Unrequited love. Ah, it sounds so deep and interesting and I like how it rolls off your tongue. Especially if you say it with a British accent. But hey, everything's better with a British accent. Anyway, the point is, unrequited love can be summarized quite accurately in these three panels:

But really, what drives a person to continue on loving someone despite the very clear fact that the chance the other person would love him or her back is almost nonexistent? Well, I'm going to have to say that...I don't really know either. This is actually coming from someone who suffers from unrequited love herself. Yes, me in all my awesome glory likes someone who for some reason doesn't seem to like me back. Strange, 'no? In all seriousness, though, I do have a couple of theories for why I personally continue on fighting for the seemingly already lost battle for this one guy's affections (and my own counter-arguments):

He's probably just shy. Yeah, that's it. This explains why he doesn't look at me, doesn't talk to me, doesn't talk about me with anyone. He's shy. Very, very shy.

No, he's actually not. He's doing all that (or rather not doing anything) because frankly, he honestly, truly, genuinely doesn't really care about you and probably doesn't even know you exist. True story, bro.

He's waiting for the right moment to make a move. It may not be now, it may not be tomorrow, and it may not even be in a hundred years, but he's waiting for it and I'll wait along with him.

What is this cheesy load of crap? While you're "waiting", slap this quote onto a stock photo of a desert sunset with Helvetica or the overused "indie" font in movies like Juno and Away We Go, why don't you? Blegh.

The signs! He looked at me for a full two seconds! A FULL TWO SECONDS DARN IT!

Yeah, well he looked at a can of Coke for three. That kind of says a lot in itself.

He's just very intimidated by me.

Yes, you and all your awesome quirks and "special-ness". Time to run for president?

He's afraid of commitment or losing me if things go wrong and he'll have to live without me. He'd rather remember me as that perfect girl who he's never been with, but had always wanted.

Seriously? All these darn over-analyzations are kind of creepy now. Plus, it would be better to divert all this wasted brain power to something more useful. And no, I do not mean making an unusually lengthy and depressing poem about it. I was thinking more on the lines of inventing something that thoroughly scrapes off every last ounce of Nutella from those darned Nutella jar corners.

There.

So you see, ladies and gentleman, I'm sure you'll find it hard to not admit that going on with unrequited love is pretty dumb, once you think about it. However, I'm also pretty sure that most, if not all of you, are still going to go on with it, because in the end, we all have one thing to blame. No, it's not ourselves. That's too degrading. We're all special and I'm sure we're all going to find someone who would happily reciprocate our love. It may not be an easy road on the way to finding that person, but he or she is out there. Rather cheesy, I know, but this isn't just something to make us feel better about our situation. It's actually true, in a way. Now, on a final note:

"Darn you, love and your complications!"

Sincerely,

.................................................................

"Although love unreturned can drive you to despair, trust that somewhere out there, someone is waiting just for you." - Anonymous

About the Blogger:

Her name is Isha Shekinah, but she's known as "ishashime" in the blogosphere. She's 18 years old, a third year Speech Pathology student at the University of the Philippines - Manila. She loves blogging and chocolates. She also enjoys playing video games and drawing in MS Paint. Do visit her blog The Blues, The Blahs and the Blarghs and read her awesome posts.

Guest Post: Marriage and Divorce

2011-11-12T07:44:00.000+08:00

Marriage and Divorce

Marriage[i]: (noun) The state of being united to a person of the opposite sex as husband or wife in a consensual and contractual relationship recognised by law.[ii]

Marriage brings together not just two people in union, but also two families (in most cases), two communities (in some cases) and also has the potential to unite two countries. It can break down barriers that may have been erected due to family feuds[iii], distances created after arguments among friends and rekindles the ties of kinship with long lost brothers and sisters. It is a contract made to give social recognition and legality to the union and in religious terms, acceptability in the eyes of God. Marriage is probably located near the top if not at the top of many people’s life decisions. After all making a commitment with someone to spend the rest of your lives together is no small thing. So what’s the point?

Marriage is a vast subject on which many people, by far more learned than me, have written a vast number of books. I was asked to discuss whether divorce in particular depreciates the sanctity of marriage. Before I give my thoughts on this, it is important to understand the philosophy behind marriage and why some people choose to describe it as having sanctity.

Sanctity[iv]: (noun) 1. Holiness of life and character. 2. The quality or state of being holy or sacred.

It is in religious lexicon that one finds reference to holy things and it is therefore no surprise that the importance of marriage is highly stressed in all world religions. One of the main reasons is because it acts as a deterrent and stops one from indulging in immoral and sinful practices as it reminds the person of the contract they had made with their wife or husband. It gives restraint and makes people think twice before ‘messing’ with another person who is married or if they are married themselves. In short marriage provides the building blocks of a healthy family, dissuades individuals from indulging in adultery and being promiscuous. It is for this reason, that the contract of marriage is holy. Yes there are some people who despite being married still do commit adultery but that cannot be attributed to marriage. And this contract I believe is the crux of the matter when it comes to the marriage and divorce debate.

Like every other contract between two parties, it is based on the principle of accountability. Each party is held accountable for their actions and thus anything they do or say that may violate the terms and conditions will have consequences. Marriage is no different. The marriage contract is based on care, co-operation, compromise and compassion. When one genuinely cares for another only then will they be able to co-operate in a positive manner to compromise when times are tough and things aren’t the way they wanted. This will lead to compassion for their other, when faced with decisions that could potentially disturb the relationship, allowing loving judgements to prevail. When someone goes against the values of marriages and breaks the vows they made, what should be done?

Government statistics from the UK show that the number of marriage registrations in England and Wales in the year of 2009 was 231,490 which were the lowest since 1885.[v] A gradual decline in the rate of marriages has also been observed and possible causes of this include delaying of marriage or not marrying at all. Increases on the have been noticed in the number of individuals choosing to co-habit.[vi] On the other hand, the rate of divorce has seen a dramatic increase since the late 1920s from a few thousand a year to more than 100,000 in 2009. The highest rates were during the 1990s and 2009 marked the sixth consecutive year of decline, during which there were 113,949 divorces.[vii]

In countries like the Philippines where divorce is not yet legally available, debates on passing the Reproductive Bill have yielded many valid opinions on both sides. There are some who argue that by legalising divorce and approving it would mean the sanctity of marriage is being put aside. Having spent considerable time contemplating the issue I have concluded that divorce actually protects the sanctity of marriage rather than destroys it.

When a student joins a school, they are admitted on account of them understanding what is expected from them in terms of academic achievement, behaviour, dress-code and attendance. If a pupil shows lack of respect for any of these, by distributing drugs, physically or mentally abusing other students and or teachers for example, they are excluded. Now, can it be said that the exclusion of such a child undermines the importance of education? When an employee steals from a business for personal gains or goes against the aims and objectives of that business and is fired, can it be argued this undermines the progress of the company? It is only when a child is allowed to continue to distribute drugs or an employee allowed to steal that the reputation of both the school and the business are impacted. In the same way, I think when a person goes against the values of marriage, divorce protects the other partner by giving them a choice to break the ties. The sanctity of marriage is only dented when a person is committing bad deeds while in wedlock, and allowed to do so without there being any accountability for their actions. However, this brings great responsibility as it means people should not rush into marriage with little thought and then divorce when they realise they made a mistake, as if it were all a game.

- Nas

References:

[i] Definition taken from Merriam-Webster online (here).
[ii] All references to marriage made in this particular post refer to the traditional sense of the word involving a man and a woman, for the sake of highlighting particular points and do not encompass same sex marriages.
[iii] A common theme in Shakespeare’s play, Romeo and Juliet
[iv] Definition taken from Merrian-Webster online (here).
[v] ‘Marriage in England and Wales’, Statistical bulletin, page 1 (available here).
[vi] ‘Marriage in England and Wales’, Statistical bulletin, page 3 (available here).
[vii] ‘Divorces in England and Wales’, Statistical bulletin, page 1 (available here).

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Chains do not hold a marriage together. It is threads, hundreds of tiny threads which sew people together through the years. - Simone Signoret

Success in marriage does not come merely through finding the right mate, but through being the right mate. - Barnett R. Brickner

I do not consider divorce an evil by any means. It is just as much a refuge for women married to brutal men as Canada was to the slaves of brutal masters. - Susan B. Anthony, The Life and Work of Susan B. Anthony

About the Blogger:

My name is Nas. Short and simple. 'Cause I'm a simple guy. But a very complicated, 21 year old, simple guy. A voracious reader, a not-so-good writer and a helpless romantic (Manchester United = <3). I've tried my hand at cooking and unfortunately I end up cooking my own skin rather than the thing I'm trying to cook. If you have not already realised I have two eyes, with a nose in between and a mouth at the bottom. And there are 2 ears sticking out the side of my head on the top of my hair which I also have and stubble on my cheeks. Oh, give me olives, cookies, or cake and I'll love you forever and beyond. I love you anyway. :)

Blog: Closing Pandora's Box
Twitter username: @nasdotcom

Guest Post: Feminism

2011-11-09T14:27:00.000+08:00

Is feminism the correct term for my beliefs?

Do i believe women should get equal rights and opportunities as men? yes. Do i think women ought to be respected at all times? yes.

Personally, I don't really want to be called a feminist. I think men and women have completely different duties in this world. When broken down to the basics, it is ideally a man's duty to do hard work to earn for and support his family, while it is a woman's duty to take care of her home and provide comfort + moral support to her family.

Sure, if a woman wants to earn for herself and/or her family, she should have every right to; but I believe that women shouldn't be demanding for a right to 'take over' the men and their jobs. Or think of themselves 'better' than men.

A very popular example is Beyonce's song Run The World, in where she states that girls run the world. Honestly, the world is dominated by men, and though it could do with more females in higher positions, claiming that girls 'run the world' is just a tad too selfish (not to mention untrue). In Lady Gaga's song ScheiBe, she states that girls should 'fight for their rights'. There is no mention of 'taking over men' in any form. It is quite an empowering song, encouraging women to be independent and to feel beautiful. Now that's the correct way to get the message across!

I am strongly for equality amongst both the genders, and that is it. Men should respect women, and women should respect men and stop picking on them. men of the recent generations are not to be blamed for male domination. The idea of men having a stronger hand in running things everywhere had already been implemented thousands of years ago, and to get annoyed with the men of today is of no use at all.

Looking at this in another way: I don't want to be called a feminist. But my answers to the questions in the beginning of this post would most probably make me one (theoretically) anyway. I must know this: What could be the correct term for my beliefs? Equalist?

Your suggestions/opinions are most welcome. :D

- Furree Katt

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"Respect begets respect." - Anonymous

"All this talk about equality. The only thing people really have in common is that they are all going to die." - Bob Dylan

"Before God, we are all equal." - Anonymous

About the blogger:

My guest blogger is Furree Katt. She's homeschooled. She's 17 years old. At such an early age, she works as a Kindergarten teacher to support her family.. and the good thing is, she LOVES her job. She's an avid blogger. She likes colours. She likes everything and anything, especially Drake. She's a joy. Check out her awesome blog: Furree Katt and read her brilliant posts.

Guest Post: Honesty

2011-11-08T19:41:00.000+08:00

Honesty

Folks, do you have what it takes to be a great partner in life, best friend, leader, and so and so forth? If you look deep down yourself, would you find the "best policy" in you? Do you believe in honesty as the best policy? But before answering this question, you have to at least define honesty in its deeper sense.

Honesty (as for many) is when you say nothing but the truth.

I, myself agree to that because primarily, that’s the very simple and easiest way to understand the word. But if we would go deeper, honesty, as tested by act, the only real measure of honesty is action. It is very easy to say that you're telling truth but your actions prove otherwise. Our actions never lie and they can really "speak".

Honesty starts in the heart. If you have a clean and sincere heart, it would directly separate you from all the things that give you the opportunity to lie.

To say that you're honest your whole life and that you've never lied.. EVER, that's already a lie. Each and every one of us has lied... some time, some where.. about what we did or didn't do, about our whereabouts, about our friends and our families, about our age, about our weight.. and the list goes on.

Honesty is just not about "telling the truth" but "feeling the truth", as well. If you're not being honest about what you said.. you don't mean it.. you say one thing, but mean another.. then there is no honesty. You're simply covering the truth with sugar-coated words.

"Honesty is the best policy", the wise men say. Being honest and telling the truth gives you peace of mind, helps you gain the trust of people around you and it keeps innocent people from being wrongfully-blamed. It is pretty easy to say that you're being honest. But as my guest blogger has stated, the real measure of honesty is action.

"Honesty" is being truthful. But it is also being sincere, trustworthy and fair. Everybody lies, yes. And the truth hurts, most of the time. But it's better to tell people the hard truth than to let them believe in a lie.

- Razz

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"Truth is such a rare thing, it is delightful to tell it." - Emily Dickinson

About the Blogger:

My guest blogger is Mommy Razz. A Filipina. She hails from Marawi City, Philippines. She loves to read the Quran and the Twilight books. She's also a very big fan of Filipina actress, Sharon Cuneta. She's a very cool mom and she's always "online". You could follow her on Twitter. Username: @inzar. Please visit her blog Welcome To My World and read her great posts.

30 Movies

2011-11-03T08:10:00.000+08:00

Tag!

Favorite film - The Lion King
Least favorite film -Catwoman
Favorite comedy - White Chicks
Favorite drama - What's Eating Gilbert Grape
Favorite action - Saving Private Ryan
Favorite horror/suspense - Resident Evil
Favorite animated feature - The Lion King
Favorite thriller - The Dark Knight
Favorite musical - Mamma Mia
Favorite foreign film - 3Idiots/Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
Favorite kid's movie - Tangled
Favorite love story - A Walk to Remember
Favorite chick flick - 13 Going 30
Favorite play adaptation - Sound of Music
Favorite book adaptation - The Harry Potter movie series
Least favorite book adaptation - Peter Pan (not the Disney movie)
Film that is your guilty pleasure - Anything Jennifer Aniston and Adam Sandler
Film that made you cry the hardest - Armageddon/My Girl
Film you don't want to watch again - Chasing Amy
Movie with your favorite actress - Just Go With It (Jennifer Aniston)
Movie with your favorite actor - The Longest Yard (Adam Sandler)
Movie you wish you could live in - XMen. I'd love to be a mutant and have superpowers. lol
Movie that inspires you - The Shawshank Redemption
Movie with your favorite soundtrack - Tarzan (Phil Collins songs)
Movie/s with the most beautiful scenery - Monte Carlo (Paris and Monte Carlo), Mamma Mia (Greece) and The Lord of the Rings (New Zealand)
Movie you're most embarrassed to say you like - Burlesque (Most of my friends don't like this movie.)
Movie with your favorite villain - (The Dark Knight) The Joker
Movie with your favorite hero - (The Dark Knight) Batman
First movie you ever remember watching - Cinderella
Last movie you watched - Casper

Done!

Saturday. 5th of November. My 2nd Guest Post series will begin. Get ready... ☺

Boo!

2011-10-31T20:58:00.000+08:00

It's Halloween!

I'm not going to go trick-or-treating.
I'm not going to carve a jack-o-lantern.
I'm not going to bob for apples.
I'm not going to any Halloween party.
I'm not going to dress up and be a fairy or a vampire or a Disney character for a day.

Ok. Scratch that last line. LOL.☺

My Halloween plans?

I will go to the Cemetery and offer prayers in memory of my deceased loved-ones.
I will stay indoors and hope that monsters won't get me.
I will watch episodes of the TV series, Supernatural all day long.
I will spend the night playing games on my PS2 (Resident Evil 4, most especially.)

Boooo!! Happy Halloween!

Maturity

2011-10-29T18:23:00.000+08:00

A blogger friend celebrated his birthday yesterday and he mentioned the word "maturity". I remember posting something about it on my Tumblr blog and so I decided to share some views about it on his post's comment section.

Here's the quote. I don't know who said it but...

"MATURITY has more to do with what types of experiences you’ve had and what you’ve learned from them.. and less to do with how many birthdays you’ve celebrated."

I remember one time, I had a little spat with my parents. It was a little issue, blown out of proportion. I really believed that my stand is correct and that I did nothing wrong. Of course, the problem was solved immediately and we came to an understanding. I'm glad that both my parents were willing to listen to me before passing judgement. Before the day ended, all was well.

My point is..

Just because people are older than me doesn’t mean that they're always right. Everyone makes mistakes. And to assume that you're always right.. ALL OF THE TIME.. that's a wee bit immature, don't you think? And just because they're older than me doesn’t give them the right to force me to believe in everything that they say. I've got a mind of my own. I will make my own choices. I will fight my own battles. In the end, I will make the decision and live my life and answer to nobody but myself. No one to blame but myself. No one to applaud but myself. And lastly, just because they’re older than me doesn’t mean I can’t challenge them, ever. I don't go around, looking for trouble, but I don't back away from a fight either, especially if I know I'm right. I will stand by what I believe in.

MATURITY doesn’t always come with age. It comes with acceptance of responsibility. That fact.. you can never question.

Scratch It Off!

2011-10-27T11:31:00.000+08:00

Wazzup? ☺

I am not back. Well.. not yet. Not really. lol. I just wanna update this blog and say "Hi" because I love you all dearly. ♥ I will be going back to the farm this afternoon, so.. still NO internet. Not until Friday, that is. ☺ I will be back on Friday and I have a lot of reading to do since there are many unread blogs on my reader. Whew!

Anyway, I saw this on Hazel's blog and I thought I should give it a whirl. All I have to do is to scratch off the things I've already done or the things I deem relevant to my life. Piece of cake, right?

Shall I? I shall.

Appearance
I have/had piercings besides the ears.
I want piercings besides the ears.
I have many scars.
I tan easily.
I wish my hair was a different color.
I have friends who have never seen my natural hair color.
I have a tattoo.
I want a tattoo.
I can be self-conscious about my appearance.
I have/had braces.
I have more than two piercings.

Embarrassment
Disney movies still make me cry.
I’ve laughed so hard I’ve cried.
I’ve glued my hand to something.
I’ve laughed until some kind of beverage came out of my nose.
I’ve touched something sharp/hot/etc to see if it would hurt.

Health
~~I’ve gotten stitches.~~
I’ve broken or dislocated a bone.
I’ve had my tonsils removed.
I’ve had my wisdom teeth removed.
~~I’ve had chicken pox.~~
I've had malaria.
~~I've had typhoid.~~
I've had jaundice.

Travel
~~I’ve been on a plane.~~
I’ve been to the US.
I’ve been to Europe.
I've been to at least one other country.
I've never been out of my country.
I’ve driven/ridden over 200 kilometers in one day.

Experiences
I’ve gotten lost in my city.
I’ve seen a shooting star.
I’ve wished on a shooting star.
I’ve seen a meteor shower.
~~I’ve gone out in public in my pajamas.~~
~~I’ve pushed all the buttons on an elevator.~~
~~I’ve slapped someone.~~
I’ve kissed someone underwater.
~~I’ve chugged something.~~
I’ve crashed a car.
I’ve been skiing.
I’ve been in a musical.
I’ve auditioned for something.
I’ve been on stage.
I’ve caught a snowflake on my tongue.
I’ve sat on a rooftop at night.
I’ve pranked someone.
I’ve ridden in a taxi.

Honesty / Crime
I’ve been threatened to be arrested.
~~I’ve broken a law.~~
I’ve done something I promised someone I wouldn’t.
I’ve done something I promised myself I wouldn’t.
I’ve sneaked out.
I’ve lied about my whereabouts.
I’ve cheated while playing a game.
I’ve been in a fist fight.

Death
I’m afraid of dying.
I hate funerals.
I’ve seen someone/something die.
Someone close to me has attempted/committed suicide.
I have attempted suicide.
I’ve thought about suicide before.
I’ve written a eulogy for myself.

Materialism
I own over 10 music CDs.
I own over 10 novels.
I own over 5 electronic gadgets.
I’m obsessed with anime/manga.
~~I collected comic books.~~
I own a lot of makeup.
~~I own gaming console(s).~~
I own a car.
~~I own a bike.~~
~~I thrive on compliments.~~
I thrive on hate.

Random
~~I can sing low key.~~
I’ve stolen a tray from a fast food restaurant.
I open up to others easily.
I watch the news occasionally or always.
I like to kill bugs.
I sing in the shower.
I’m a morning person.
I’m a sports cricket fanatic.
I twirl my hair.
I care about grammar.
I love spam.
I’ve copied more than 30 CDs in a day.
I bake reasonably well.
~~My favorite color is either white, yellow, pink, blue, red, black, purple, or orange.~~
I would wear pajamas to school.
I like Martha Stewart.
I laugh at my own jokes.
I eat fast food weekly.
I’ve not turned anything in and still got an A in a certain class.
I can’t sleep if there’s a bug/insect in the room.
~~I’m really ticklish.~~
I like chocolate.
I bite my nails.
I’m good at remembering names.
I’m good at remembering dates.
~~My memory sucks.~~
I have no idea what I want to do for the rest of my life.

People
...used to ask if I was anorexic/bulimic.
~~...called me fat.~~
...say I’m skinny.
...have said I’m ugly.
...have said I’m pretty.
...have spread rumors about me.
...force me to eat.
~~...say I eat too much.~~
...say I eat too little.
~~...say I eat too fast.~~
...say I eat too slow.
...have called me a genius.
~~...have given me gifts.~~

Eating
I’ve lost weight.
I’ve gained weight.
I’m at my thinnest.
I’m at my biggest.
I’ve lost weight and kept it off.
~~I’ve lost weight, but gained it back.~~
~~My weight affects my mood.~~
I diet.
I’m vegan/vegetarian.
I exercise.
I’ve fainted from exhaustion.

Family
I’ve sworn at my parents.
I’ve planned to run away from home before.
I’ve run away from home.
I have a sibling less than one year old.
~~I want kids.~~
I’ve had kids.
I’ve lost a child.

Relationships
I’m engaged.
I’m married.
I’m a swinger.
I'm in a relationship.
I’ve gone on a blind date.
I have/had a friend with benefits.
I miss someone right now.
I have a fear of abandonment.
I don't like to depend on others.
I’ve gotten divorced.
I’ve had feelings for someone who didn’t have them back.
Someone has/had feelings for me when I didn’t have them back.
I’ve told someone I loved them when I didn’t.
I’ve told someone I didn’t love them when I did.
I’ve kept something from a past relationship.

Sexuality
I’m a cuddler.
I’ve been kissed in the rain.
I’ve hugged a stranger.
I’ve kissed a stranger.

Bad times
I regularly drink.
I can’t swallow pills.
I can swallow numerous pills at a time without difficulty.
I’ve been diagnosed with depression at some point.
I have anxiety problems.
~~I shut others out when I’m upset.~~
I don’t have anyone to talk to when I’m upset.
I have taken/take anti-depressants.
I’ve slept an entire day before.
I’ve plotted revenge.

Okay. Done! ☺ Uhm.. I'm speechless.....

I'm an Angel. ☺

2011-10-20T11:22:00.000+08:00

Hello again!! How's everybody? ♥

The university near my home is on semester break. What does that mean? No school! And so, no work for me! I'm a bum again! Yay! lol. The students are on vacation. I'll be taking a short vacation, as well. I'm going to spend another week at the farm at my parents' house. ♥

Anyway, this was a bit late. I'd like to thank Hazel for giving me a "You're an Angel" award last week. She's the lovely lady behind the blog, Pablo's Angel. She wrote some awesome things about me, that I just blushed like a tomato. She had an epic "Award Week" series in her blog last week. I'm on it. ☺

Leah - "Ice Cool Lady"

The title says it all, you are extremely cool. You say you write about your boring life but trust me, you're far from boring. I don't think you realise how awesome you are, especially since your second blog, "Everyday Letters" was one of the most hilarious blog ideas I've ever come across!

Hazel

Hazel dear, I'm deeply touched by what you wrote about me. I love this super-awesome-super-original blog award you gave me. You're such a sweetheart. I'm really glad that you like my "Letters" blog, too. I actually deleted it last month. But because of what you said about it, I brought it back. Hihi. ♥ Thank you so much, Hazel. I appreciate this special recognition.

.............................................

Just a quickie.

October 16. I boarded a ferry and went to the "City of Smiles", Bacolod City.
Spent some good time with fellow bloggers, Jose and Milch.
Tried to watch the Masskara Streetdance Competition at the Public Plaza but didn't get to. It was too crowded.
Went inside the Carnival and rode the Horror Train. (They should change the name to Funny Tunnel. I was laughing the whole way. rotflmao.)
Played some target shooting games. No bull's eyes but I got pretty close. I have a good aim. Hihi.
Did karaoke and had two bottles of beer with Jose and Felix, my high school classmate.
October 17. I boarded the ferry and went home. Tired but happy.

Have a great week, everybody! Don't forget to smile.. ☺

Christmas Tree

2011-10-15T22:33:00.000+08:00

Christmas comes early in the Philippines.. ♥

Yep. There's Halloween this November, but we don't go trick-or-treating anyway. And besides, the Christmas season is the most anticipated and most favorite holiday season for most Filipinos. That's why we get into the Christmas spirit and celebrate it as early as September.

The early signs? The Christmas songs in the radio, the colorful "parols" on doors and windows, the Christmas trees in the living room..

Ate Lucile (sis-in-law) and Maricel are busy decorating the tree,
while Sophia is on the floor, playing with some Christmas balls (lower left).

.. And it is done! Ate Lucile and Ysabel strike a pose
in front of their beautiful Christmas tree.

Merry Christmas!

See? The family is into the Christmas spirit. It's only October and we already have the holiday tree set up in the living room. I bet it will remain up until February. Hehe.

Merry Christmas, everyone! ♥

Monday Blues

2011-10-10T10:41:00.000+08:00

Today's a Monday.

I woke up late. Had a bad (weird) dream. Hit my head on my bed's headboard. Felt a little light-headed. Missed breakfast. Ran out of coffee..

I think today's going to be one of those days..

Comic strips taken from here.

I'm not really "hating" Mondays. I just hate THIS Monday. *sigh*

Fonts

2011-10-09T16:21:00.002+08:00

Post updated: October 9, 2011. 7:32 in the evening

Did another experiment and did a little magic. I added and used a custom font (Special Elite) and defined the font in my blog CSS. Hooray! I did it! Thanks so much for the tip, Fang.

.................................

Hi, guys.

This would be brief.

I did a little experiment on my blog yesterday. I added some codes and changed my page text font.. from "calibri" to "special elite". However, unless you (my readers/visitors) download and install the said font to your laptop/pc, you won't be able to view the new page text font.

I really think that this "special elite" font is totally cute. Don't get me wrong. "Calibri" is a very nice font. I wanted try something new, that's why I added the codes. But it didn't work out quite as I had expected. Sadly, I had to change it back to "calibri".

Oh well.. Still smiling. Have a wonderful day, lovely people! ♥ ☺ ♥

What do you think?

2011-10-07T15:28:00.000+08:00

Hello again. ♥

I'm still here at my brother's house, playing with my nieces and taking care of our old gandma. And it is of the same reasons that I can't stay online long enough to have long chats with my Twitter/Facebook friends, and make bloghops and drop comments on my favorite blogs. My two nieces fight over who would sit on my lap, while I face the laptop, so it's better to NOT turn it on. LOL.. The only time I can go online is when both of them are asleep. ♥

Anyway, I watched some movies yesterday. First on the list was "Friends with Benefits". It was good. I like Mila's role there - very witty, funny and sexy. Next, I watched "Source Code". Okay, I've got admit I watched it twice before I began to understand the plot. Haha! Talk about slow. Oh well.. only human. The last movie I watched before dozing off last night was "He's Just Not That Into You". Great movie. Have any of you watched it? It's a romantic comedy set in Baltimore, and tells the story about reading/misreading and understanding human behavior, specifically in dating. Some of the lines in the movie just get stuck in my head. They seem a wee bit... chauvinistic, but they do make sense. I'm not sure if I agree with all of them, though.

Image from Google

Here's some of the lines..

Alex: And the rule is this: If a guy doesn't call you, he doesn't wanna call you.
Gigi: Always?
Alex: Yeah, always.

Alex: So trust me when I say if a guy is treating you like he doesn't give a shit... he genuinely doesn't give a shit. No exceptions.

Alex: If a guy gives you his phone number instead of taking yours, he's not interested. And also, if a guy wants to see you, believe me, he will see you.

Alex: Run.
Gigi: So, what, now I'm just supposed to run from every guy who doesn't like me?
Alex: Yeah.

Alex: Oh, the spark thing is bullshit. Guys invented the spark so they could not call and treat you kind of badly and keep you guessing. Then convince you that that anxiety and fear that just develops naturally, was actually just a spark. And you guys all buy it. You eat it up and you love it. You love it because you feed off that drama. You all love that drama. Because you all thrive on the drama.

Niel: I don't understand why people wanna get married.
Ben: They don't.
Niel: They don't?
Ben: No. No, no guy actually wants to get married. And if they do, all they're really thinking about? All the women they're gonna miss out on.

Ben: You're a dick if you date a girl for too long, and don't marry her. But you marry her, and then you're an asshole for marrying her before you're ready. Shit - I don't know.

Well, what do you think?

P.S.
To see the full script, click here.. or you could just watch the movie, or read the book. ☺ Have a great day! ♥

Save the Tigers

2011-10-07T12:11:00.001+08:00

Good day, lovely people. ☺

I received an email today. I just thought I'd share it with all of you.

Dear Leah,

Stalked in their forest homes, shot dead, and sold – piece by piece – on the black market. That's the sad fate of hundreds of tigers each year.

And with fewer than 3,500 tigers left in the wild – only 1,000 of which are breeding females – this poaching isn't just illegal, it's obliterating one of the planet's most beloved animals, one population at a time.

Tigers' best hope for survival lies in WCS and our supporters – people just like you.
Our experts are armed with research and expertise – but without sufficient resources, they could be outmatched by the poachers' increasingly sophisticated poaching and smuggling methods.

Tigers are counting on us: Help us raise $35,000 by October 20th to counter the illegal wildlife trade and save tigers and other threatened wildlife in every corner of the world.

Effectively combating the poachers' grisly operations requires state-of-the-art wildlife enforcement – but also sheer numbers. Simply put: we need more boots on the ground to protect tigers from poachers.

That's why WCS – one of the world's leading experts in wildlife enforcement – isn't wasting any time.

We've partnered with local governments in countries across the tiger's range to recruit, train, and equip ecoguards, the first line of defense in the fight for tigers' survival. Ecoguards patrol "source sites," 42 regions across Asia that WCS identified last year as critical tiger habitats.

They're stationed in nearly half of the source sites, and we're expanding constantly – ecoguards have just started covering new regions of India, Indonesia, and Malaysia. In Indonesia alone, we've saved at least 12 tigers over the past 12 months through the increased patrolling and intelligence gathering provided by these tiger guardians.

This is tremendous progress. But poachers are getting smarter, and the illegal trade of tigers is booming. Tigers have just recently gone extinct in pockets of Cambodia and India where only a few years ago they roamed freely. Fighting back is going to take everything we've got – and if we're going to bring tigers back from the brink of extinction, we need to get more ecoguards out there.

Don't wait for another tiger to die. Donate today.

WCS has the science and the on-the-ground expertise to save tigers and other threatened wildlife – all we need is you, Leah. I hope you'll help us with your gift today.
Sincerely,

Liz Bennett
Vice President, Species Conservation
Wildlife Conservation Society

Website: Wildlife Conservation Society
For donations, click here.

A little help goes a long way. Unless we act now.. today, the next generation wouldn't be able to see these amazing creatures, since they'd be slaughtered into extinction by these soulless poachers.. It would be a great if each and everyone of us could donate a little amount to help in such a great project. It never hurts to help, right. ♥

Let us help save the tigers.

Adorable Sophie

2011-10-03T15:16:00.001+08:00

Hi there! ♥

How is everybody? All is well, I hope. ☺ I'm here at my brother's house, taking a week-off. I'm with my grandma, my sister-in-law and her two adorable little angels, Sophie and Ysabel. Those two are just too cute to ignore.

And today, I just have to share this short conversation I had with my lovely 2-year-old Sophie.

Sophie: Tita Nene! (Nene is my nickname, as I am affectionately called. "Tita" means, "Auntie".)
Me: Yes, baby?
Sophie: Kadto ta Esemsiti. (Let's go to the SM City Mall)
Me: Sure, baby. Galeng maano man ta didto? (Sure, baby. But what will we do once we get there?)
Sophie: Kaun Jolibee. (Eat at Jolibee - a fast-food restaurant chain)
Me: Sige. Hambala si yaya, paliguan yaka. Tapos ma-dress ka ha. Ang pinakanami guid. (Sure. Tell your nanny to give you a bath. Then you wear a beautiful dress, ok.)
Sophie: Ok.

After a few minutes..

Sophie: Tita Nene! Tapos na! (Tita Nene! I'm done!)
Me: Baby, tani nag-dress ka, ukon nag blouse and skirt. Pirme ka lang guid ya ga-shorts. (Baby, you should have worn a pretty dress or a blouse and skirt. You're always wearing those shorts.)
Sophie: Di ko mag dress.. (I don't wanna wear a dress.)
Me: Daw lalaki ka galeng. (But you look like a boy...)
Sophie: Teh? Gwapa man ko gyapun... (So? I still look beautiful.)

And she gave me her most charming smile. ♥