Waiting

Here at bus stop waiting for my ride.
Good thing I have my phone that I can tinker or else I'll get bored. Don't want to take a cab coz it is expensive .

I'll miss Hunny today. He is at a charity function at work. 29 more days to go before our anniversary. Seven years -- I can't believe it!

Hello Again!

Hello blog, it is nice to see you again. I know I have been very busy these past few months.

Changes happened very fast and as many thoughts I have that I wanted to put in writing, I was  unable to find a time to sit and just type away. For that I apologist. And it is quite ironic that amidst my busy schedule now and an abrupt answer to a phone call offering slimming services, I am starting to write again. Well, I know that you woud be the only one who would not give any indifferent reaction to what I'll say. You'll just listen. And that's what I love and missed about you. Anyway, where would I start? Last entry I have here was about my great Singapore challenge.

Moving into a new place - without anything to hold on to or any assurance of the future was quite scary. As what a few of my colleagues have mentioned, leaving a good position at IBM is like throwing all away. Not to mention very very crucial.

But God is good. And He will always be faithful. Oh, I must change what I said on the last  paragraph, we have something to hold on to, God. And yes, it may sound very spiritual - but we were really tested during our first month here. Accommodation was already provided by the Pua couple. One of the things we would always be grateful of - plus I gained two cousins and one nephew. Since Ate Tina and Kuya Raymond has been living here, I only met them on few occasions when they are in Manila. And we didn't have the time to chat and talk about things - and life as it goes. But when we stayed to their place - I learned a lot of things. All was in a haze actually, and  my idea of fast-paced is way different than what we have experienced.

Let me note a few things:
1. I learned how to cook again. Cooking is easy when you have recipes and videos available on You Tube. Planning the meals everyday is quite difficult. Plus, having a 7 month pregnant woman in the house, the diet must be maintained as well as her craving.
 

2. After-meal conversations is what I love most - about family, friends, finding work and things about Singapore.
 

3. Budget - this one, I am still trying to learn.

Gotta go for now.

Day 2: Frustrated

I guess this is the dominant feeling that I have for almost the first part of my day. One might say that I am such a bitch for having to get this kind of attitude but I cannot help but feel it.

The plan to go here was to look for work. It took months of preparation - and getting used to the idea that I will be away from home for the first time in my life. More than setting the right attitude, I pressure myself because this is going to be now or never.

Leaving work - especially the name of the company where I have worked for the past eighteen months was indeed a difficult decision. And no matter how crap I have always thought my work was, it was still stable. Here, not only do I get to have the title of being unemployed, I only get half the chance of finding work. So it frustrates me to realize that he does not care enough about that fact. Yes, he went here with me. But he still have a job - a fall back just in case this plan is not meant to be. I don't know how to explain it because for me, it is plain enough to understand. Every minute counts - yes, I am on schedule because I don't have the time and the money to spend for this stay. Darn it.

Friends are supposed to be - caring, understanding and mature. I don't know. Yes, I criticize your friend. That doesn't mean that I choose better friends than you do or that I am wiser than you are. But I do not let my friends make me look stupid. Heck, this friend did not even bother to communicate effectively when he has all the time and the means to do so. Now why do we have to just act like his effing beck and call when he needs us? Does that even qualify the meaning of a true friendship?

And what's up with being stubborn? Leaving your passport? No money or MRT card? In a place where it is important that you need to always have an identification? Why walk in the rain even if you have an umbrella? Why insist on walking when you can sit for awhile and think and plan on what is the next best practical thing to do? Why tell me that I don't know how to value your friends when you try to value mine? Even when you can plainly see that your so-called friends does not even bother to say hi or hello even when they don't need anything from you? Are they really worth it? Is that the kind of relationship you'd like to have for people you are supposed to treasure you for a lifetime.

I am so pissed off and frustrated.

Now I am thinking of just going back home on the 31st.

To start again and forget this dream.

One Week Countdown and Previous Happenings

I haven't got the time to blog for quite some time. With all the transition of work load and preparations for the "move" to Singapore, I have been so pre-occupied with lots of things. This is my second day of chilling. Well, I haven't done much today but finish my checklist for my portfolio and do a Secret Garden marathon. 

Oh, forgive me if I have scattered thoughts. I am like this when I am trying and praying not be anxious of things and feelings. I would really need to collect my ideas and almost everything so I can be sane again.

One big leap. And it has already started. 

Yes, I still have alot of moments when I think I am crazy doing this.

But, weird as it may seem - I feel no regrets.

Great Sinagpore Sale 2011

And yes, it is the time of the year for the Great Singapore Sale. And boy, o boy! I am really excited to experience this event this year. We were able to make habol for last year's schedule on its last week and yes, we were able to get some special tourists discounts too!

The annual Great Singapore Sale returns from 27 May to 24 July 2011.

For eight glorious weeks, enjoy up to 70% discount on just about everything, everywhere. From the central shopping belt of Orchard Road and Marina Bay to the Southern Waterfront and suburbs, you’ll find fantastic value on fashion, watches, jewelery, electronics and more, all over Singapore! Exclusive tourist privileges, priceless MasterCard rewards, exciting events and promotions, and late night shopping, dining and entertainment also await you.

It will be a wonderful opportunity to enjoy great savings and a great time in Singapore, so be sure to check out the Great Singapore Sale!
 

This Great Singapore Sale, enjoy great value deals on hotel stays at 30 hotels in Singapore.

For bookings and room rates, please visit stayinsingapore.com.

• Capella Singapore - 1 The Knolls, Sentosa
• Concorde Hotel Singapore - 100 Orchard Road
• Copthorne King’s Hotel Singapore - 403 Havelock Road
• Fairmont Singapore - 80 Bras Basah Road
• Four Seasons Hotel Singapore - 190 Orchard Boulevard
• Furama City Centre - 60 Eu Tong Sen Street
• Furama RiverFront - 405 Havelock Road
• Gallery Hotel - 1 Nanson Road
• Goodwood Park Hotel - 22 Scotts Road
• Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore - 392 Havelock Road
• Grand Park City Hall - 10 Coleman Street
• Grand Park Orchard - 270 Orchard Road
• Hotel Michael - 8 Sentosa Gateway, Resorts World Sentosa
• Hotel Royal - 36 Newton Road
• Link Hotel Singapore - 50 Tiong Bahru Road
• M Hotel Singapore - 81 Anson Road
• Mandarin Oriental, Singapore - 5 Raffles Avenue
• Marina Mandarin Singapore - 6 Raffles Boulevard
• Orchard Hotel Singapore - 442 Orchard Road
• Park Hotel Clarke Quay - 1 Unity Street
• Peninsula.Excelsior Hotel - 5 Coleman Street
• River View Hotel Singapore - 382 Havelock Road
• Singapore Marriott Hotel - 320 Orchard Road
• Studio M Hotel Singapore - 3 Nanson Road
• Swissôtel The Stamford - 2 Stamford Road
• The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore - 80 Collyer Quay
• The Fullerton Hotel Singapore - 1 Fullerton Square
• The Regent Singapore – A Four Seasons Hotes : 1 Cuscaden Road
• Traders Hotel Singapore - 1A Cuscaden Road
• York Hotel Singapore - 21 Mount Elizabeth

24 Things To Always Remember

 

Your presence is a present to the world.
You are unique and one of a kind.
Your life can be what you want it to be.
Take the days just one at a time.

Count your blessings, not your troubles.
You will make it through whatever comes along.
Within you are so many answers.
Understand, have courage, be strong.

Do not put limits on yourself.
So many dreams are waiting to be realized.
Decisions are too important to leave to chance.
Reach for your peak, your goal and you prize.

Nothing wastes more energy than worrying.
The longer one carries a problem the heavier it gets.
Do not take things too seriously.
Live a life of serenity, not a life of regrets.

Remember that a little love goes a long way.
Remember that a lot … goes forever.
Remember that friendship is a wise investment.
Life’s treasure are people together.

Realize that it is never too late.
Do ordinary things in an extraordinary way.
Have hearth and hope and happiness.
Take the time to wish upon a start.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Hollyhock

What greater gift than the love of a cat?
~Charles Dickens

Several springs ago I planted a hollyhock flower underneath our family room window. Every spring without fail the hollyhock would push forth a strong green stem from its earthy winter resting place. Its dark red flowers would open up to claim its rightful place in the sun. My husband would sit in his favorite chair watching TV with a perfect view of the hollyhock as it gently swayed in the summer breeze.

"That is my favorite of all the flowers you planted," he said.

I tended to it faithfully in hopes it would live forever and provide him with one of life's simple pleasures. That following May, without warning, he passed away, forcing me to live in a world full of fear, pain, and loneliness. My life and my children's lives were shaken to the core as the pillar of our small family was suddenly stripped from us. My world was shattered and I wondered if I could ever pick up the pieces and continue my own existence. Even though I had four children, they had their own lives, with children, jobs, and their own homes to tend to, leaving me with the feeling that I had no one left to care for.

With nothing but time I went outside to brush away the dead leaves and other debris left by the winter from around his favorite flower. I was anticipating its reliable bloom to sway once again in the summer breeze as if it would bring his spirit to life again.

"I don't know how to live without you," I whispered while brushing away the tears that would not stop falling. My heart was heavy, and my soul lonely and scared.

Just as I reached to grab the dead leaves I heard a hiss coming from behind the stem. Startled, I jerked my hand away. My heart pounded, and my vision was blurry from the tears that filled my eyes. I feared there was a snake under the leaves. I quickly stood up to leave the creature alone in hopes it would eventually move on. Blinking several times to force the tears away, my vision cleared. My fear vanished and compassion rushed into my heart instead. What I thought was a snake turned out to be a tiny black fur ball trying to scare away its intruder. I reached for the kitten and it hissed again. Without hesitation I picked it up and began to stroke its tiny head.

"Poor little thing, what are you doing under there?" I said as I carried it into the house.

"Where did you come from and how did you get all the way here?" I said as I tore up lunchmeat into tiny bite-size pieces. The little cat growled like a large lion as it devoured the food. I laughed at this tiny cat with a fierce heart. "Poor little thing, you must be starving."

Since I had never had an inside cat, I took him back outside after his meal. Unfortunately he found the outside drainpipe, decided to explore and got stuck. After much chaos and dread, he was finally retrieved with some assistance. Realizing how vulnerable he was, I decided he would share my home and gave him what I thought was a fitting name, Piper.

Piper has become a magnificent animal with a shiny, sleek coat and he has filled some of the void in my life. He provides me with company on those lonely nights when the house is quiet except for the sound of the TV and his purring as I stroke his head. On days when my world is dark he lightens my heart and makes me laugh, because to this day, even though he is big and strong and is provided with all the food he needs, he still continues to growl while eating. His strong will and determination inspire me to carry on with my life the best I can.

At the time it seemed strange that a little kitten would appear under the hollyhock that my husband so loved. But what better gift was there to give someone who felt so alone in the world, and who was able to give a tiny creature a loving home? Piper and I needed one another more than either of us knew. The hollyhock never bloomed again. It was as if it was transformed into a tiny kitten. Perhaps the kitten was a gift from my husband to give me something to care for and to give me pleasure, just as the hollyhock did for him.

Source

Laughter Is the Purrfect Medicine

From Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Cat's Life
By Donna Gephart

Laughter is a tranquilizer with no side effects. ~Arnold Glasow

About three weeks ago, I noticed something unusual in our cat's litter box. Yes, more unusual than the heart-shaped urine clump Jasmine lovingly created for us on Valentine's Day. And stranger than the time she swallowed the string from a Christmas ornament and made us a new and improved ornament the next day in her box. It was blood. After a wrestling match, the likes of which World Wrestling Entertainment has yet to witness, I managed to shove Jasmine into her carrier and drive her to our veterinarian's office. The vet told me that Jasmine had an infection. I could handle that. The vet told me that Jasmine needed a change in diet, and that the new food would be much more expensive. My bank account could handle that. The vet told me that I would have to give Jasmine a dropper full of antibiotic liquid twice a day for two weeks.

"Are you nuts?!" I bellowed. "I'd rather hand-feed piranhas."

The vet thought I was overreacting. He grabbed the office cat. "Here, I'll demonstrate," he said condescendingly. The sweet, furry creature lay docile. She willingly opened her mouth when prodded for the demonstration. It seemed to me the vet could have inserted hot pokers into this cat's eyes and she would have purred. Jasmine, on the other hand, turns into Catzilla if we even try to pick her up for a quick cuddle. How would I ever hold her, open her mouth and insert the required dose of antibiotics? On the drive home from the vet, I prepared for the ordeal. "How hard can it be?" I asked myself out loud. "She's small. I'm tall. She weighs about twelve pounds. I weigh, um, slightly more than that." At home, I got hold of Jasmine without losing a limb, but I couldn't grip her and open her mouth at the same time. I needed two more hands or...

"Sweetheart!" I called my husband. When I told Dan what we needed to do, he looked at me as though I had asked him to jump into a pit of slithering snakes. I assured him this was far worse.

"Okay," he said. "She needs the medicine to get better. I'll hold her and you squeeze the antibiotics into her mouth."

The first morning we tried, Dan held her and I worked furiously to get her to open her mouth. When she tried to bite me, I squirted. A surprising fifty percent of the liquid ended up inside her mouth. The rest spilled on her chin, but she quickly licked it off. Success! We felt as though we had won the Olympic event of Feline Medication Administration, and since Dan and I still had our fingers and hands, we high-fived each other.

The next night, Jasmine used her back paw to scratch Dan's palm. He bled so much I thought he would need a transfusion. He bandaged his hand and his ego and tried again. He eventually held Jasmine still. This time, I managed to get a surprising eighty percent of the liquid inside her mouth. The other twenty percent fell into the carpet fibers along with crushed Cheerios, a half-eaten raisin and a set of lost Legos. I was feeling confident now. Dan was feeling woozy from lack of blood.

The next morning, Dan donned his business suit. He had an early meeting at the office. "Come on," he said. "Let's get this over with. I'm running late." He grabbed Jasmine with amazing finesse. More sure of my ability, I opened her mouth and squirted the full eye dropper of thick white liquid... all over my husband's slacks.

Over the next two weeks, my husband's slacks were well medicated. We, on the other hand, were sick of wrestling with our feisty feline. We reached under every piece of furniture in the house to retrieve her, but unfortunately, the only things we snagged were impressively large dust bunnies. And they looked too robust to need antibiotics. Once, when we held Jasmine securely, she slugged the eyedropper across the room with her front paw. We signed her with the Phillies. We would have given up, but our cat's health was too important. So we struggled twice each day to get the medicine from the bottle to the inside of Jasmine. We have a few scratches to show for the effort, but mostly a lot of laughs from our attempts. And laughter must be the best medicine because despite our hilarious misses with the medicine dropper, Jasmine got a clean bill of health from the vet. Thank goodness. Because if he had told us that we needed to give Jasmine any more medicine, my husband and I would have ended up in the hospital. The kind with padded walls, barred windows and white jackets.

Summer's Crossing

Iron Fey Announcement

Out of the way, Ash--Juile's releasing Puck's story first! "Summer's Crossing" is out this October, and features your favorite prankster. 

******

I encountered the first book of the Iron Fey Series last year. I was able to get a copy of the audio book. I haven't read alot of Young Adult books aside from Artemis Fowl, Wolves of Mercy Falls and Laurel Series. I instantly fell in love with the series. The story may seem cliche at the beginning. A lost princess with a best friend who was a meant to watch her and she falls in love with the enemy. But during the course of the plot, it unravels different kinds of personalities from the characters which are really unique and endearing. The fave person, err.. animal in the story was Grimalkin. Yes, the cat reminds me of the Cheshire Cat of Tim Burton's movie version of Alice in Wonderland. He just comes and goes whenever he feels like it - without having to answer to anybody. He insists that he stays beside Meghan because he craves for the interesting but I think deep inside, he has developed a soft spot for the Human.

I have read all the four books - well 3.5 since "A Winter's Passage" is just a mini-novel between The Iron King and The Iron Daughter.. then The Iron Queen. Cannot wait for The Iron Knight! 

Well here is the video for the Iron Fey Series: 

For more information about these books, you can visit the site of Julie Kagawa.

Is Running Not My Thing?

I bought my first pair of running shoes last year. I have never shown interest in fun runs before and was not really the sporty type so I never did focus on getting one even if I am fond of shoes in general. Plus I like the girly-type shoes, stilettos and straps was my kind of thing.

Anyway, when I started to run as a morning exercise, I noticed that I feel that my legs are beginning to itch. I thought it had something to do with the air or the environment since there are lots of trees in the mini-park which was just five minutes from my house. So whenever I feel it, I stop cause I can't seem to concentrate and would just love to scratch which is bad since it won't look good after I do so. When I run using the treadmill, I don't feel the itchiness. Does that mean I am choosy? That I can only run in gyms? 

Hunny and I with the rest of his cousins were looking forward to joining the NatGeo Run. But due to hectic schedules, it was again - postponed. But what we did was practice Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at the Sports Center. Again, I did feel the itchy sensation. So my doubts grew - am I allergic to something? Or is running not meant for me. My mom had a different idea, she was thinking that maybe I am getting dehydrated or something like that and I should drinks lotsa water or Gatorade to replenish the fluids and electrolytes that my body needs. 

Thankful to technology, I did a little bit of research about this. As I discovered in a running forum the explanation as to why I have been feeling this "thing":

The itching is not on the skin, it's inside the actual limbs. There are millions of tiny capillaries and arteries inside our muscles which expand rapidly due to the demand for more blood that is brought on by exercise. When fit, these capillaries remain open allowing maximum blood passage, but when unfit and inactive they tend to collapse, allowing only minimal blood passage (which is sufficient for a sedentary person however). The rapid expansion of these vessels causes adjacent nerves to send impulses back to the brain which are interpreted as an itch. That's why after a few sessions the sensation tends to go away. Just another indication of increasing fitness levels.

My reaction was..."ahhh, so that's what it was!" With renewed hope that I can still join run or do my morning jogs, it seems to me that the key is just REGULAR exercise. Now I am keeping my fingers crossed.. (tee-hee)

My Room of Eight

I am not a fan of chain texts or emails ever since I started receiving one when I was in high school. I simply don't believe in luck when it comes to such things. And I personally think it is stupid to follow instructions such as re-send the email to 10 people or forward the text to 20 friends to avoid bad luck. Life does not work that way.

I have had a not so thrilling week at work. Trying to adjust with the people movement that involves my account which means going back to step one of "trying" to work with another person. And it is just a week that I am feeling more confident about my decision of leaving the company. Nevertheless, for me - it will still be BAU or Business As Usual until my last day on the 15th of May. 

I came to work today and saw an email from my aunt. It was a chain letter. The second that I have received from her this month. Though I haven't received any from her before aside from our usual exchange of hi-hello, I am blessed that she considers me among her circle now. We were not close before since she was living in US since he day I was born. Though she is my godmother, I met her when I was already 26 years old..

The point of this entry is to share the content of her email. And though I have had a crappy week, I have decided to be happy today - and it is Friday after all.

"May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be.  May you not forget  the infinite possibilities  that  are born of faith in yourself and others.  May you use  the  gifts that you have received, and pass on the love  that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself  just the way you are.  Let this knowledge settle into  your bones, and allow your soul the freedom  to sing,  dance, praise and love. It is there  for each and every  one of  us."

This is a reminder for me.. to stop once in a while, and smell the flowers. 

FS: Asus K40IN Laptop

Item For Sale: Asus K40IN

Price: Php 21,00.00
Purchased: Octagon - SM Megamall
Purchase Date: September/October 2009
Reason For Selling: downgrade to a Netbook
Warranty: 3 days

Condition of the IFS:
1. no hidden defects
2. primarily used for office stuffs
3. marks in the trackpad - thought that the mark was from the plastic but it wasn\'t
4. no dead pixel
5. no scratches on LCD since it has a screen protector
6. battery life lasts for 2 hours since i rarely use the battery unless i go outside the office

Comes with the following:
1. box
2. manual
3. mouse
4. charger
5. original driver cd/dvd
5. Targus bag(black) or Ideastyle black sleeve (you have to pick one) - no bag/sleeve was provided when i bought my laptop
6. OS (Windows 7, trial version) is optional

Specs of the IFS:
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo T6500 @ 2.1Ghz
Memory: 2GB
HDD: 320GB
Videocard: NVIDIA® GeForce® G102M, with 512MB VRAM
For full specs, click the here

Pictures of IFS:
Click Here

Meeting Place:
1. Marikina - SM Marikina, Bluewave-Marquinton, McDonald's - C&B's Mall, McDonald's - Bayan
2. Cainta - Sta. Lucia East, Robinson's Metro East, McDonald's - Marcos Highway
3. Eastwood
4. Ortigas/Mandaluyong - Robinson's Galleria, SM Megamall (weekends only)

Another Quake in Japan

A strong earthquake of magnitude 7.4 shook northeast and eastern Japan late on Thursday, and a tsunami warning was issued for the northeastern coast of Japan, an area badly hit by the March 11 earthquake.

Lord help us. 

Please spare the lives of our loved ones - families and friends alike. 

And so I quote and claim God's promise: Psalm 23

4 Even though I walk
   through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
   for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
   they comfort me.

Clouds

A cloud is a visible mass of water droplets or frozen ice crystals suspended in the Earth's atmosphere above the surface of the Earth or other planetary body.

 All photos are taken by yours truly. Oh how I love to take pictures of clouds!

Seat Sale Alert

You've got it right! We've got 20% off for ALL SEATS ALL FLIGHTS! No matter where you go or where you fly from you can get 20% off today! All the more reason to zoom off to a AirAsia GP Destination!

Booking Period: 6 - 8 April 2011
Travel Period: 9 April - 26 May 2011
Travel Notes: Advanced booking required.
                      Fares are not available during embargo period.

                      Not applicable for flights to/from Tokyo (Haneda).

Hurry! Book now and get in on these fabulous steals!

This Easter, Jetstar is offering amazing sale fares from as low as USD38^ (eg. Manila to Singapore). Be sure not to miss this fantastic sale!

Click here for more info.

Get 20% off to Universal Studios Singapore

MasterCard Special
From now till 27 May 2011, use your MasterCard to enjoy 20% off One Day tickets any day of the week when you book online or purchase on-site! You’ll also receive a S$10 retail voucher for even more priceless family fun!” (1st 200 onsite redemption on first-come-first-serve basis).

What are you waiting for? Buy Now.

Win a Singapore Getaway

I have always loved the YourSingapore website. Since I came across the site, it was the primary source I frequently visited before we went to Singapore the first time. I couldn't get enough of all theideas of what to do, where to go, what to eat to ensure that we are going to have a great time. And boy, it was one helluva trip!

Now, they have contest on their FB page wherein one can win a trip for Singapore for two. This  is really awesome! Would like to win not for myself but for my mom and brother so they can have those one of a kind experience.

Join by clicking here: Win a Singapore Getaway

Great is Thy faithfulness

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases
His mercies never come to an end
They are new every morning
New every morning
Great is Thy faithfulness, O Lord
Great is Thy faithfulness

© 1975 Celebration/Kingsway

Alec

He goes back to Japan today. And yes, I know I am not supposed to cry. But his reply has done this to my tear ducts! My only brother, the youngest in the family is growing into a man. I can't say that my time in being a bossy sister has come to an end. But it is gradually to become lesser and lesser.. for Alec that is. My sister, is another story. But she is not the one leaving today so I'll save up an entry for her some other time.

As I meditate on the day ahead of us, my heart brings me back to a simple tune I have learned since I was ten years old. It was often paired with an opening song for fellowship and the message coming from Lamentations 3:22-24:

 22 Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed,
   for his compassion never fail.
23 They are new every morning;
   great is your faithfulness.
24 I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion;
   therefore I will wait for him.”

And so this is my prayer. And my claim.

Here is my e-mail to my baby brother written a day ago:

Dear Alec,


Yes this is weird but I find myself writing this email at three in the morning. We will definitely be busy tomorrow and moreover, have no time for drama on Monday. Plus we have to avoid letting mom see the deep-buried feelings of sadness as we once again find ourselves part ways - for the time being.

I know I have questioned you time and again of this decision studying abroad and leaving home. In some twisted way, I understand how you feel and respect this choice. I know you are trying to be brave but is somehow afraid to be alone in a place where you have decided to call your second home. I don't know if that is your calling. But I am continuing to trust the Lord that He knows what He is doing and He will fulfill His promise to you.

I pray that you always find the courage to continue this path that God has chosen for you. Peace at times that you are bothered by earthly worries. Grace that you learn to accept things as they come. Friends who will be your shield while you are away. Love from home that will ensure you there is always a place where you are accepted - no matter who you are or what you have been. Humility that will keep you grounded in spite of all your achievements. Strength to always stand up for what is right. Happiness that you enjoy life to the fullest. And faith in God.

Yea, it is now or never. And thank you for always being Alec. I will always treasure our talks. And for  never failing to understand my shortcomings. I thank God for you.
I will see you in Singapore. Don't forget to remind me of this promise just in case I'd forget. :)


I love you baby brother.
Hang in there.
Always believe.


God bless,
Ate Ni

*Sent from my iPod

Dear Ate Ni,

You know I'm not good when it comes to expressing my feelings to my family. But I know you know what I'm trying to do. Time and I again I have been preparing myself when this day again comes. 

I want to continuously challenge myself with what He has given me. I could not let go this opportunity as I know this will promote self-growth and more importantly an avenue to help Mama. I'm a Mama's boy and my priority will always be to give her, to the best that I can, security  as she grows old.

I can say that so far, you've been a good sister to me. With all the hardships that we've gone through, I saw how you grew and became more mature as you lead your life and carry the burden of supporting the family. We all have our own shortcomings, so I don't blame you for yours. What matters is that no matter where we are, we always keep connected to each other and to Him.

You've been through a lot and now that you and Kuya Donn are seeking for a better opportunity abroad, I could not help but also think that the responsibility of supporting Ma and Pa is little by little being passed to me. You never heard me complain anything about it because this is also part of belonging to a family. I know also for a fact, as you have been vocal with your plans, you're desire to save up, get married and also settle down and stat your own family. For now, I can only wish you the best because you have been one strong sister. One of the person that I would talk to with what if's what not's and whatevers.

I believe we can do this. Just continue to ask for His guidance and hold on to His plan for each and every one of us. 

Mata ne. (See you.)

Itsumo ki wo tsukete kudasai. (Take care always)


Alec

Flower in the Rain

You are the One
There's no one else
Who lifts me up
And gives me water from the well
But there's a hole
That seems to drain it all away
And once again I'm left in fear and doubt
When all my strength is crying out

So here I am again
Willing to be opened up and broken
Like a flower in the rain
Tell me what have I to do
To die and then be raised
To reach beyond the pain
Like a flower in the rain

The evil wind it blows a storm
To rock my world
Just when I think I'm safe and warm
I'm led astray far too easily
It's always hard for me to say I'm wrong
Until I know I can't go on

Lord, you have searched me and know
When I sleep and when I rise
You're familiar with all my ways
Even the darkness will shine like the day
When you look into my heart.

******

This is one of my all-time favorite songs. Sung by Jackie Velasquez, this is the one that can best describe my relationship with Jesus. I may stray.. but I will never forget and I will always come back.

Earth Hour 2011: It's time to go beyond the hour

Earth Hour is a global event organized by WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature, also known as World Wildlife Fund) and is held on the last Saturday of March annually, asking households and businesses to turn off their non-essential lights and other electrical appliances for one hour to raise awareness towards the need to take action on climate change.

Earth Hour was conceived by WWF and The Sydney Morning Herald in 2007, when 2.2 million residents of Sydney participated by turning off all non-essential lights.

Following Sydney's lead, many other cities around the world adopted the event in 2008. Earth Hour 2011 took place on March 26, 2011 from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., at participants' local time.

Each Day I Choose

It's quiet. It's early. My coffee is hot. The sky is still black.
The world is still asleep. The day is coming.

In a few moments, the day will arrive. It will roar down the track with the rising of the sun.
The stillness of the dawn will be exchanged for the noise of the day.
The calm of solitude will be replaced by the pounding of the human race.
The refuge of the early morning will be invaded by decisions to be made and deadlines to be met.

For the next twelve hours I will be exposed to the day's demands.
It is now I must make a choice.
Because of Calvary, I'm free to choose.
And so I choose.

I CHOOSE LOVE…
No occasion justifies hatred;
no injustice warrants bitterness. I choose love.
Today I will love God and what God loves.

I CHOOSE JOY…
I will invite my God to be the God of circumstance.
I will refuse the temptation to be cynical…
the tool of the lazy thinker. I will refuse to see
people as anything less than human beings,
created by God. I will refuse to see any problem as
anything less than an opportunity to see God.

I CHOOSE PEACE…
I will live forgiven. I will forgive so that I may live.

I CHOOSE PATIENCE…
I will overlook the inconveniences of the world.
Instead of cursing the one who takes my place, I'll
invite him to do so. Rather than complain that the
wait is too long, I will thank God for a moment
to pray. Instead of clenching my fist at new
assignments, I will face them with joy and courage.

I CHOOSE KINDNESS…
I will be kind to the poor, for they are alone.
I will be kind to the rich, for they are afraid. And kind to
the unkind, for such is how God has treated me.

I CHOOSE GOODNESS…
I will go without a dollar
before I take a dishonest one. I will be overlooked
before I will boast. I will confess before I will
accuse. I choose goodness.

I CHOOSE FAITHFULNESS…
Today I will keep my promises.
My debtors will not regret their trust. My associates
will not question my word. My wife will not
question my love. And my children will never fear
that their father will not come home.

I CHOOSE GENTLENESS…
Nothing is won by force. I choose to be gentle.
If I raise my voice, may it be only in praise.
If I clench my fist, may it only be in prayer.
If I make a demand, may it only be of myself.
I am a spiritual being…
After this body is dead, my spirit will soar.
I refuse to let what will rot rule the
eternal.

I CHOOSE SELF-CONTROL
I will be drunk only by joy.
I will be impassioned only by my faith.
I will be influenced only by God.
I will be taught only by Christ.
I choose self-control.

Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
To these I commit my day.
If I succeed, I will give thanks.
If I fail, I will seek His grace.
And then, when this day is done,
I will place my head on my pillow
and rest.

********** 

Before, my siblings used to always say that I am Miss All-Knowing and Miss Goody-two Shoes. Looking back, I think I have always strive to do the right things. Yes, strive - meaning  there is an effort. An inner battle inside me. Which means I am not a robot but a human, prone to different kinds of thoughts, feelings/emotions and outlook. 

I came across this piece when I ready a book my Max Lucado probably during my early twenties. And I have forgotten how it has enlightened, uplifted and encouraged me. I hope that this will stay in my hide - as I learn to meditate on it every morning. And though there is always a choice - to do either the good or the bad, when one struggles - there is always God's grace. 

Slowly..

Realization hits me and it sinks deep -- as it well should. 

Less than 60 days and my life would change.

I would be out of my comfort zone. The one that I got used to since birth.

Yes, typically Filipino, I have lived under my parents' roof for almost thirty years.

No, the math is not wrong.

This would mean I would stop being spoiled and princess-sy.

Because it is only me, and him.. and God.

Though we can often hear the cliche that says, "Three's a company"  and that it always denotes negativity, still I'd rather claim this trio as partners into this adventure. 

It will definitely be that (adventure) because I know that will be highs and lows, laughter and tears, good and bad. Oh, there would be struggle - and it would be stupid if I'd say I am not afraid. Well, inside I am freaking out. But hopefully, in a good way. This move will eventually take me and him out of our shells. And will reveal what's inside. 

And my only prayer is for God's grace.. aphiami  in Hebrew. In the dictionary, it is referred to as an attribute of God — a spontaneous, unmerited gift of divine favor for his children—a favor.. a gift.

Accepting now that without it, I may succeed but all will be futile. But with it, I can do all things.

And the one thing that people always desire - heaven on earth.

This Little Light of Mine

I'm gonna let it shine..

So, aside from all the ups&downs of the news I have received last night, nothing beats a loaded Wednesday for him. O yea, it was indeed a very busy day. I have already.. or should I say almost given up on getting certified for YB.. thinking that I'd just focus on the 6S GB Online Training at least. But amazingly, God moves - esp when times that we least expect Him to do so. The project where I was a part of seemed like a lost cause. It has been months now that I am waiting for it to be closed and for me to certified. Twas one of my selfish reasons why I stayed until now. After all, sayang naman. Then the other day, I received the news that the final presentation is supposed to be today but will be moved on Thursday instead. Goodie! Though I still had to do some DPMO calculations from Jan-March MTD, I think it will be worth it - somehow. Then I can move on and focus on the GB Training. :) God is good.

On another note, I was able to speak freely to Twinx regarding my moving up day.. (hehe) We both thought that it is more peaceful to work in the sidelines or at the core of a group without being noticed. I know that she is smart and that she knows a lot. But there are some people who prefers to live their lives as much as hassle-free as it can be. This always brings me back to Hunny's challenge. That I am just scared of responsibility.. that is why I do not like applying (ever) for a Lead Role. On my defense, I always say that although I can be a People Manager, I cannot handle the stress. Don't get me wrong, I love working people. I just don't want to take a lot of shit load from people who would not care if they do their jobs well or not without thinking of the consequences it can bring to the entire team, moreover, to the boss - who gets all the blame, shame and glory (if there are circumstances like that). I prefer handling my own stats - my own performances. That way, I am 100% sure that I am the only one accountable for whatever outcome there is to be.

On second thought, I have realized that people like me and Twinx may avoid the center stage.. but when one does his/her thing well, it is only but natural to be recognized. And a serious of recognition brings limelight no matter how much you try to stay away from it. To good things, you get noticed - do bad things, same thing will happen as well. So what is the choice? I think we all know the answer.

Today

This day is somewhat hazy for me. I have learned a couple of things that gives away mixed emotions. Some negative, some positive.

Okay, I'll do this is order. I somekinda learned that a friend is leaving. And my intuition is rarely wrong when it comes to these kind of things. I received a confirmation now from that person. Hm, only thing I am thinking - he is a great loss. I wonder how the boss will get through? And that, ayun - naunahan ako.

Second, it's a boy! Ate Tina and Kuya Raymond - our host in May will be having a baby boy! Imagine that, I believe the Flores Clan really has a thing for getting alot of males is the family! I originally guessed that it will be a girl since Hunny's cousin is so girly these days - wearing dresses and blooming during her pregnancy. Well, regardless of the gender, I know the kid will be spoiled and smart like his parents.. I wonder if they have already chosen a name.

Hm, last news I heard so far is sad. Rica's grandpa passed away. Tatay Makati - as what we call him. I haven't had the honor to talk to him or get to know him but was able to meet him during family gatherings and parties. I was able to attend their wedding anniversary last year and saw how well he raised him family. I feel sad now - for a loss of another good person. My heart goes out to Rica and her family. It is indeed a sad and happy day.

On a different account - Alec will be leaving for Japan probably next next week. Mother does not want him to go. That was my reaction too, but I guess it can't be helped. No harm will come to those who trust the Lord. And everything He does is according to plan.

I will be leaving in two months. Exactly 2 months from now. It hasn't really sinked in because it feels like I still have alot of things to do. But as I prepare myself - I try to accept that there will be difficult times - esp with emotions and being homesick. But I pray for His grace.

The Iron Fey Series

It's Friday

I haven't blogged for quite some time now. I know I can use the excuse that I have been busy at work and with so many things. But considering the fact that I can watch episodes of AI and AMNT, download e-books/audio books and read DramaBeans for updates, saying that would be so lame. I'm afraid I have this tendency to do things that I want whenever I feel like it.. yeah impulsive. That I am.

So anyway, time to catch up. I only have 2 weeks to prepare myself prior to telling my boss that I am going to leave the company. Until now, I am doin' bits and pieces of preps for the move but it has not really sinked in that deep yet. Plus with all the chaos going around the world. It is a little bit selfish (in my opinion) to just focus on what I need to do two weeks from today.

Hm, I guess I am fighting an inner battle, in a sense that I am taking my time to get used to leaving home and I know (though am assured) that I can get by, there will be major adjustments that has to be done in my lifestyle, in the way I act and the way I decide on things. I have ALOT of back reading forums, checking websites, etc. on how to cope.. adjust but I know it wouldn't be that easy. But I pray for God's grace. I know this is His Will. I know I have to step up.

So on a laid back Friday shift (still keeping my fingers crossed) I want to take the opportunity to look for jobs, double check job hunting requirements, find a part-time/online job that would add in the savings for SG.

Oh well, I am done eating my feel-good food for the day : Dairy Queen's Dilly Bar which is cheap and yummy at the same time.. So on with the Thinking Caps..

How Japan Became a Leader in Disaster Preparation

Just before noon on the morning of Sept. 1, 1923, a massive earthquake shook Japan's Kanto Plain, hitting the busy industrial cities of Tokyo and Yokohama. The quake leveled buildings and sent cooking stoves tumbling to the ground. Fanned by typhoon winds off Tokyo Bay, the flames spread across the flattened landscape, raining ash on evacuees. Rumors spread that Koreans were looting and thousands were massacred in retribution. By the time the Kanto Plain stopped seething, at least 100,000 people were dead and most of the region lay in ruin. The devastation was so complete, the loss so profound, that Japan considered moving the capital.

Instead, they rebuilt — very carefully. Fire-prone, wood and brick buildings were replaced with six-story towers of concrete and steel. Motorways were built, a subway system planned and an airport erected. By 1935, the population rivaled that of New York and London. (See pictures of the massive earthquake that struck off the coast of Japan on March 11, 2011.)

Perched on the Ring of Fire, an arc of seismic activity that encircles the Pacific Basin, Japan is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world — but it's also one of the best equipped to handle them. Having survived the quake of 1923, the utter the devastation of World War II and, later, in 1995, the earthquake in Kobe, the country has done more than most when it comes to disaster preparedness.

Japan is arguably the world leader in readiness. Every year since 1960, the country marks Disaster Prevention Day on Sept. 1, the anniversary of the 1923 Tokyo quake. At many Japanese schools, first-day-of-class celebrations include an evacuation drill. Even the Prime Minster participates: at this year's closing ceremony, Naoto Kan spoke about the importance of "mutual aid" in times of crisis. "I would like to ensure that the government will prepare itself for disaster, together with the people, so that it can confidently say that 'Providing is preventing,' " he said.

Japan boasts the world's most sophisticated earthquake early-warning systems. Emergency drills organized by public and private organizations work, among other things, to transport "stranded" commuters from their offices to their homes. Japan's tsunami warning service, set up in 1952, consists of 300 sensors around the archipelago, including 80 aquatic sensors that monitor seismic activity 24/7. The network is designed to predict the height, speed, location and arrival time of any tsunami heading for the Japanese coast. Tsunami safety has been a focus of coastal city planning throughout the nation. On Japan's east coast, where tsunamis frequently hit, hundreds of earthquake and tsunami proof shelters have been built. Some cities have built tsunami walls and floodgates so that the waves don't travel inland through river systems. (Read "Japan Quake Causes Nuclear Emergency.")

When disaster does hit, as it did today, Japan's buildings fare relatively well. In 1981 Japan updated its building guidelines with an eye to earthquake science. The devastating Kobe earthquake, which claimed some 5,100 lives, spurred another round of research on earthquake safety and disaster management. In 2000, the country's building codes were revised again, this time with specific requirements and mandatory checks. Even at the local level, preparedness is a priority: from 1979 to 2009, Shizuoka prefecture alone poured more than $4 billion into improving the safety of hospitals, schools and social welfare facilities. Though Japanese cities often shake, they rarely topple. "This gives me great faith in Japan's building codes," said Hong Kong University's Charles Schencking, a historian who studies earthquakes in Japan. (Comment on this story.)

Of course, all the preparation in the world can't stop the earth from trembling. Today's quake and the waves that followed have taken hundreds of lives and triggered tsunami warnings across Pacific. The damage is extensive and will take much time to repair. Still, whatever the extent of the death and destruction, it would be much worse if not for Japan's hard-earned culture of preparedness.

— With reporting by Erica Ho, Hillary Brenhouse, Christy Choi and Krista Mahr

Read more: http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,2058390,00.html

Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan

TOKYO – A ferocious tsunami spawned by one of the largest earthquakes on record slammed Japan's eastern coast Friday, killing hundreds of people as it swept away ships, cars and homes while widespread fires burned out of control.

Hours later, the tsunami hit Hawaii but did not cause major damage. Warnings blanketed the Pacific, putting areas on alert as far away as South America, Canada, Alaska and the entire U.S. West coast. In northeastern Japan, the area around a nuclear power plant was evacuated after the reactor's cooling system failed.

Police said 200 to 300 bodies were found in the northeastern coastal city of Sendai, the city in Miyagi prefecture, or state, closest to the epicenter. Another 137 were confirmed killed, with 531 people missing. Police also said 627 people were injured.

The magnitude-8.9 offshore quake unleashed a 23-foot (seven-meter) tsunami and was followed for hours by more than 50 aftershocks, many of them of more than magnitude 6.0.

Dozens of cities and villages along a 1,300-mile (2,100-kilometer) stretch of coastline were shaken by violent tremors that reached as far away as Tokyo, hundreds of miles (kilometers) from the epicenter. A large section of Kesennuma, a town of 70,000 people in Miyagi, burned furiously into the night with no apparent hope of being extinguished, public broadcaster NHK said.

"The earthquake has caused major damage in broad areas in northern Japan," Prime Minister Naoto Kan said at a news conference.

The quake was nearly 8,000 times stronger than one that struck New Zealand late last month, devastating the city of Christchurch.

"The energy radiated by this quake is nearly equal to one month's worth of energy consumption" in the United States, U.S. Geological Survey Scientist Brian Atwater told The Associated Press.

The government ordered thousands of residents near a nuclear power plant in the city of Onahama to move back at least two miles (three kilometers) from the plant. The reactor was not leaking radiation but its core remained hot even after a shutdown. The plant is 170 miles (270 kilometers) northeast of Tokyo.

Trouble was reported at two other nuclear plants as well, but there was no radiation leak at either of them.

Japan's coast guard said it was searching for 80 dock workers on a ship that was swept away from a shipyard in Miyagi.

Even for a country used to earthquakes, this one was of horrific proportions because of the tsunami that crashed ashore, swallowing everything in its path as it surged several miles (kilometers) inland before retreating. The apocalyptic images on Japanese TV of powerful, debris-filled waves, uncontrolled fires and a ship caught in a massive whirlpool resembled scenes from a Hollywood disaster movie.

Large fishing boats and other vessels rode high waves ashore, slamming against overpasses or scraping under them and snapping power lines along the way. Upturned and partially submerged cars bobbed in the water. Ships anchored in ports crashed against each other.

The tsunami roared over embankments, washing anything in its path inland before reversing directions and carrying the cars, homes and other debris out to sea. Flames shot from some of the homes, probably because of burst gas pipes.

Waves of muddy waters flowed over farmland near Sendai, carrying buildings, some of them ablaze. Drivers attempted to flee. Sendai airport was inundated with thick, muddy debris that included cars, trucks, buses and even light planes.

Highways to the worst-hit coastal areas buckled. Telephone lines snapped. Train service in northeastern Japan and in Tokyo, which normally serve 10 million people a day, were suspended, leaving untold numbers stranded in stations or roaming the streets. Tokyo's Narita airport was closed indefinitely.

President Barack Obama said the U.S. "stands ready to help" Japan.

Jesse Johnson, a native of the U.S. state of Nevada who lives in Chiba, north of Tokyo, was eating at a sushi restaurant with his wife when the quake hit. 

"At first it didn't feel unusual, but then it went on and on. So I got myself and my wife under the table," he told The Associated Press. "I've lived in Japan for 10 years, and I've never felt anything like this before. The aftershocks keep coming. It's gotten to the point where I don't know whether it's me shaking or an earthquake." 

NHK said more than 4 million buildings were without power in Tokyo and its suburbs.

As night fell, Tokyo's streets were jammed with cars, buses and trucks trying to get around and out of the city. Pedestrians swarmed the sidewalks to walk home, or at least find a warm place to spend the night as the temperatures dropped. 

Tomoko Suzuki and her elderly mother stood on a crowded downtown corner, unable to get to their 29th-floor condominium because the elevator wasn't working. They unsuccessfully tried to hail a taxi to a relative's house and couldn't find a hotel room. 

"We are so cold," said Suzuki. "We really don't know what to do." 

A large fire erupted at the Cosmo oil refinery in the city of Ichihara and burned out of control with 100-foot (30-meter) flames whipping into the sky. 

"Our initial assessment indicates that there has already been enormous damage," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano said. "We will make maximum relief effort based on that assessment." 

He said the Defense Ministry was sending troops to the hardest-hit region. A utility aircraft and several helicopters were on the way. 

Also in Miyagi prefecture, a fire broke out in a turbine building of a nuclear power plant, but it was later extinguished, said Tohoku Electric Power Co. 

A reactor area of a nearby plant was leaking water, the company said. But it was unclear if the leak was caused by the tsunami or something else. There were no reports of radioactive leaks at any of Japan's nuclear plants. 

Jefferies International Ltd., a global investment banking group, estimated overall losses of about $10 billion. 

Hiroshi Sato, a disaster management official in northern Iwate prefecture, said officials were having trouble getting an overall picture of the destruction. 

"We don't even know the extent of damage. Roads were badly damaged and cut off as tsunami washed away debris, cars and many other things," he said. 

The U.S. Geological Survey said the 2:46 p.m. quake was magnitude 8.9, the biggest to hit Japan since record-keeping began in the late 1800s and one of the biggest ever recorded in the world.

The quake struck at a depth of six miles (10 kilometers), about 80 miles (125 kilometers) off the eastern coast, the agency said. The area is 240 miles (380 kilometers) northeast of Tokyo. Several quakes hit the same region in recent days, including one measured at magnitude 7.3 on Wednesday that caused no damage. 

A tsunami warning was extended to a number of areas in the Pacific, Southeast Asia and Latin America, including Japan, Russia, Indonesia, New Zealand and Chile. In the Philippines, authorities ordered an evacuation of coastal communities, but no unusual waves were reported. 

Thousands fled homes in Indonesia after officials warned of a tsunami up to 6 feet (2 meters) high, but waves of only 4 inches (10 centimeters) were measured. No big waves came to the Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. territory, either. 

The first waves hit Hawaii about 9 a.m. EST (1400 GMT). A tsunami about 7 feet (2.1 meters) high was recorded on Maui and a wave at least 3 feet (a meter) high was recorded on Oahu and Kauai. Officials warned that the waves would continue and could get larger. 

Japan's worst previous quake was a magnitude 8.3 temblor in 1923 in Kanto that killed 143,000 people, according to USGS. A 7.2-magnitude quake in Kobe in 1996 killed 6,400 people. 

Japan lies on the "Ring of Fire" — an arc of earthquake and volcanic zones stretching around the Pacific where about 90 percent of the world's quakes occur, including the one that triggered the Dec. 26, 2004, Indian Ocean tsunami that killed an estimated 230,000 people in 12 nations. A magnitude-8.8 temblor that shook central Chile in February 2010 also generated a tsunami and killed 524 people. 

Source: Yahoo News