Downtown Manila

Spent an afternoon all by myself in Quiapo, Manila today! Ate Rosie (our super loyal kasambahay) was in Ong Pin, buying goods for our store while Tatay Boy (our family driver) chose to stay at a dental supplies store somewhere in Platerias Street. So instead of waiting inside the car, I decided to go out on a mini adventure. It was a wise decision because I had a great time wandering around the streets of Carriedo on my own, feeling like a tourist exploring a foreign land. It was scorching hot but the summer heat didn't stop me from looking at the interesting stuff the vendors sell. Carriedo, I realized, is a "one-stop shop" for it has everything a person needs in his or her everyday life--- from batteries, appliances, fruits, kitchen tools, clothes, bags, fashion jewelry, you name it!

Was on my way to the dental supplies store to meet Ate Rosie and Tatay Boy when these funky rings caught my attention. I went gaga when the saleslady told me that each ring costs Php30 only. It was like love at first sight, so I bought six pieces. I even got a discount from her! ;)

Didn't get the chance to drop by Quiapo church though, due to the lack of time. I used to go there with Auntie Lucy before and I plan to do it again some time.

So if you're looking for some amazing finds that are budget friendly, you can always go to Quiapo. I'm sure you will have a blast, as much as I did. And oh, on a friendly note, remember to keep all your valuables such as phone and wallet close to you and be alert at all times. :)

The Taft Adventure

I felt like a student again when I went back to DLSU last March 24. Classes were over at the school where I work so I had the time to visit my alma mater. I took the chance to check out the newly renovated cybernook inside the library at SJ building and I find it amazing! It has changed a lot since I graduated and I wish Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf was already there during my last year as a college student. The computers have leveled up too! No wonder why it's so crowded when I arrived. Cybernook is definitely the place to be where the students can study without distractions. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to take snapshots because I was shy. HAHA.

Walked on the school's halls once again. Maggie said I don't look a like an alumnae because I blend in with the students. Speaking of blending in, during my visit, it was the last day of voting for the new set of student council officers and someone from Santugon and Tapat, the two socio-political organizations in the university, asked me if I already voted. Kinilig naman ako. ;)

Was surprised to see the walls of the walkway between the CLA and COE buildings painted with murals. And if you're wondering about the thing covered in gray clothing, that's a solar car. If I'm not mistaken, some students from the engineering department are developing a new solar car and they're going to present it abroad and represent our country. How awesome is that?

Got to see the current situation of the football field too. And it broke my heart.

My trip to Taft wouldn't be complete without Maggie. She's also one of the reasons why I decided to drop by DLSU. She was so busy with her school requirements at that time but she spent her four-hour break just to be with me (she's the sweetest best friend!). She showed me the new University Mall. It looks like a safe place now unlike before.

Cerealicious is making a comeback via the University Mall. It was located at Sherwood when I was still a frosh but it closed due to some unknown reason. Maggie and I didn't have second thoughts when we saw it right infront of us. We eventually went inside and ordered food. And did I mention that we were the second customers to enter the establishment? It happened to be their opening day and I'm glad we're part of it.

What I love about Cerealicious is its innovativeness when it comes to mixing our favorite breakfast cereals with treats such as fruits, sprinkles, candies and the like. You may click this link if you want to see the menu. Anyway, I enjoyed my Harry Butter, Finger of Azkaban while Maggie had her I-rone Man.

Went to Noriter Cafe after. I stayed in Taft for three years but I've never been to Noriter... until that day. This humble cafe along Taft Avenue serves the best treats in town! Plus, a number of students come over to this place to study because its homey ambience is conducive to learning.

A former classmate in history class once told me that guests were allowed to write on the walls. However, the management decided not to do this anymore. So they thought about collecting coffee cups and encouraged the students to express their feeling through writing, drawing or painting on them.

Seeing this made me realize that styro cups look good as decorations. And we're also helping Mother Earth. What an excellent idea, right?

By the way, I satisfied my craving for blueberry cheesecake by ordering a slice of it. Heaven!

When Ate Rosie sent me a text message saying that they're near DLSU, Maggie and I returned to the campus. While waiting for my sundo, I used the remaining time to convince her to study for her next class because her professor's going to give them a quiz. HAHA. Unfortunately, my convincing power wasn't that effective. Well, I have faith in her. I'm sure she did a good job.

I agree with Bianca Gonzalez when she said that "going back to school is refreshing and inspiring". I wish I would have more time to explore my second home and hopefully catch up with familiar people.

Happy Easter and Animo La Salle!!! :)


P.S. Maggie wrote a super sweet post. Click here to read. :)

The Ultimate Roadtrip

The latest issue of Candy magazine has inspired me. I've been a Candy girl for four years already and the April issue is my favorite so far. I love the feature on summer clothes, food (being a foodie, I would love to try some of Happy Lemon's "quirky yet creative combinations" and Empire's cheesecake balls), skin care, do-it-yourself summer projects and of course, Macy Alcaraz' Hello, Miss Independent article.

The article made me realize that I've been living the life of Blair Waldorf (minus the fashionable clothes and social life) and of a princess. For instance, I go to work being driven around by our family driver everyday and someone cleans my room if I'm not in the mood to fix my things. In addition, I don't know my way around the kitchen yet. Knock on the wood, but what if one day, these people who help our family go on vacation? I'm helpless.

Two weeks ago, I took the initiative to visit a driving school to inquire. I talked to my parents and aunt about it and some days later, I enrolled. My driving class started Wednesday last week, and I felt so nervous when my teacher asked me to sit on the driver's seat. He introduced me to the pedals and other car accessories first before the actual hands-on experience. I learned how to switch on and off the car, move forward and backward, turn left and right, drive up and down, and the like. First day was so-so but the following days were fine.

Yes, I know how to drive now but I'm not yet good enough.

Last night, I had my night driving session (it's part of the requirement) and it was an adventure I will never forget! This was the time when I became so talkative. I talked to my teacher for two hours, and it's non-stop! We were able to talk about a lot of things--- from music, kinds of iPod, iPad, school, family, celebrities... you name it. We reached Los Banos, Laguna, with me being in-charge of the hand wheel. It's the farthest I've ever traveled since I started driving. In my honest opinion, it's an achievement! I'm glad I have a very patient, supportive and cool teacher. He's like a kuya to me too. I think that's a bonus.

I'm looking forward to having more exciting driving classes, whether they'd be on a day or night. I don't want to think about the last day yet because it'll only make me feel sad. I wish it would be longer though. On the brighter side, I'll make the most out of my last 10 hours in driving school. Also, I'll remember everything that teacher taught me and improve what needs to be improved so I could make him happy and proud of me.

By the way, were you able to see the moon last night? My friend described it as a "cheese ball" because it was so big, round and orange. I was mesmerized by its beauty and it looked so magical. Kudos to my friend, Icca, who took this photo.

Anyway, I wonder where we are going today. Can't wait for our next roadtrip! ;)

Gone Too Soon

Life is indeed too short.

When I opened my Twitter this morning, I had no idea why people keep tweeting "Rest in peace AJ Perez" and "Let's pray for AJ and his family". I thought it was a joke, but I was wrong. I got so shocked when I read an article about his untimely death on Yahoo Philippines. According to the news, the van they were riding collided with a truck and a bus, and he suffered multiple head injuries. He passed away at 12:20am today. He was 18.

I was supposed to write about something else but I changed my mind and decided to dedicate this post to AJ.

AJ was a good model to the youth. Unlike the other young actors his age, he didn't stop studying so he could focus more on his rising career. Instead, he juggled his studies and his priorities in the field of entertainment. It was hard but he was able to manage. As a matter of fact, he recently graduated from high school. His parents and loved ones must be very proud of him.

(This photo taken two years ago, when my friends from College of Business and Economic in DLSU went to a studio in ABS-CBN. AJ was the one wearing the pink and black striped shirt, sitting beside the host, Mariel Rodriguez)

To AJ, wherever you are, I know you're happy. I know you're Home. We will miss you. :'(

P.S. AJ's wake will be at La Salle Greenhills Shrine, staring today until Tuesday, April 19.

It's summertime!

I think this summer is my summer. A week after I received the Bohol trip invitation, I got another one this time from my college friends, who have been sending me messages via Facebook, to inform me about our sweet summer escapade. I went on internet hiatus for one day and when I came back to cyberspace, my notifications on Facebook were filled with messages from them. God knows how much I want this summer to be different so I guess this is His way of fulfilling my dream.

I clicked on the link that they sent me and it's such a nice place. It's at Capones Vista Beach Resort in Zambales and I'm sure whoever loves the beach will also love this "paradise." I found out that this beach resort offers a lot, making it an ideal place for everyone. It can be the haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers or those who simply want to unwind. Let me share with you some photos I found from the beach resort's website and Google images:

Top view of the beach resort. Isn't it lovely? And look at the water! Swimming in this clear and blue water would be fun, fun, fun!

Overlooking the Capones Island. I wonder if island hopping is a part of my friends' agenda. Knowing them, they would probably include it in the list of activities. ;)

Nothing beats the view of sunset. It's so romantic and beautiful. A sunset like this would probably inspire you to get that notebook and pen (or if you're the techie type, bring your laptop) and write something.

For the second time, my dad and aunt allowed me to go when I told them about this. My mom wants me to join my friends too as she insists that this is going to be a new learning experience for me. I feel so lucky, indeed! Now I'm torn between Bohol and Zambales. I hope I make a good and wise decision. ;)

Can't get over these kids

The newest commercial of McDonald's is so charming! I stop whatever I'm doing whenever it airs on TV. The little boy definitely impressed me when he said that "girlfriends are demanding". I know it's just a part of the script but still... I wonder if kids his age will say the same thing also. Well, I'll observe and let you know about it. :p

And here's another thing. The commercial made me realize that when it comes to love, height or age doesn't really matter at all. :D

Want over need?

I literally jumped after reading the text message sent by someone dear to me the other day. She was inviting those who are also dear to her to join her and her husband-to-be in a trip in Bohol (I feel so honored and humbled to receive such invitation from her, really). I've never been to Bohol and I hear it's an interesting place to visit. My knowledge on Bohol is only limited to chocolate hills, one of the famous tourist attractions in the country (AND I wouldn't know this information had elementary history books have not included it in the chapter where land forms are being discussed haha). To know more about Bohol, I researched and here's what I found out:

The tourists have a hard time choosing which places to see and visit because Bohol has a lot to offer. A week isn't enough to explore this island and if you plan to extend your stay, you should have a bigger budget.

I already asked permission from my dad and aunt and to my surprise they both agreed. This is something new and I feel so thankful because they're allowing me. This would have been my first trip outside Luzon, without them or without a chaperon. However, the total amount of money to spend is way too expensive! Anyway, I'm sharing with you some photos of the tourist attractions in Bohol, which I want to see in the future:

My trip to Bohol wouldn't be complete if I don't check these out. It's called chocolate hills because it turns brown at the end of the dry season. Fascinating, right? They're located in the town of Carmen.

Because it's summer season in the Philippines, dropping by the beach is a good idea. I'd love to go to Panglao, which is the home of many beach resorts, to make sand castles, walk on its white sand, collect sea shells, have a bonfire party with friends and of course swim in the clear blue water.

Upon reading its description, Baclayon reminded me of San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila because it has a museum too and it's an old church. The same goes to Loboc. Visiting old places is fascinating for me, for some reason.

I've always dreamed of seeing tarsiers! Who wouldn't want to see these adorable animals? There's a tarsier sanctuary in Corella and I'm eager to see them in their natural habitat.

Researching on the places to visit in Bohol and looking at the photos gave me more reasons to say yes and "go for it". Like I told you, my dad and aunt have given me the blessing so the final decision is up to me. I'm still having second thoughts though. Haay, I guess I must put my Canon camera dream away for the moment. ;)

Thought for the day

Let's make this world a happy place. :)

Love Yourself

I love the message of this song! When you listen to it, you don't have to read between the lines to understand what it's trying to imply. You don't have to change yourself so that other people will appreciate you. Prove whoever says you're not pretty or beautiful, has no potential or can't be the best, wrong. Never let all the negative things you hear about yourself bring you down. Love yourself. :)

P.S. I also love Selena's natural look on this video. She's so pretty! :)

This crazy little feeling

There is always that one special person we will never ever forget, no matter how long it has been, because he or she has made a big impact in our lives. Whenever we reminisce our good old days and this special person comes to mind, admit it or not, our smiles become wider and our hearts beat a little bit faster.

Last week, I watched this Thai movie entitled, A Crazy Little Thing Called Love, out of curiosity (here I go again haha). I don't watch Thai movies because they never interest me. However, this one caught my attention because my friends say nice things about it and it's all over Tumblr!

This movie brings back a lot of memories--- gradeschool and highschool memories in particular. The story may be simple but it can definitely make you cry, laugh, inspired and have that warm, fuzzy feeling. I know everyone can relate to it because we've also been through Nam's, Chone's and the other characters' experiences at some point in our lives.

I don't mind watching it again. :)