Monday, December 31, 2012

The Year 2012 in Pictures


2012 is a memorable year for me. 2012 has taught me to be adventurous and be more confident with myself. I'm glad I took risks and tried out new things like surfing and cooking. 2012 has given me an opportunity to find my strengths and weaknesses in my chosen career. 2012 is also the year I got to spend more time with my family and friends from the different stages of my life. I learned new things from my experiences, and I will forever treasure the memories I made (with people who mean a lot to me) this year. I feel so lucky and blessed at the same time. Thank you Big Guy for everything. Until next year. :) ❤

Let me end this entry by quoting my fellow Humblebee, Ayeen:

"Welcome 2013. Here's to the new adventures, to more experiences, to new friends, to making more dreams come true."

Happy New Year everyone! :)

Don't be afraid to take risks. :)

Good morning, happy world! Ayan, hindi na mapait na mundo. ;) 

The Special Happy Crush

*December 30, 2012*

Had a happy dinner last night with my happy friends from gradeschool, Thesa and Chia. :)
 

Sunday, December 30, 2012

The Movie I'll Never Get Tired of Watching


If there's one movie that totally makes me cry a river (well, aside from Toy Story), it would be Pixar's UP. I was in college, junior year, when I watched it in the silverscreen. I thought that it's just a movie about a cute kid who became friends with a grumpy old man who lives in a house pulled by hundreds of balloons, and they both went on an adventure. But I was wrong because this movie is more than just that. It has a more meaningful and deeper context that leaves us thinking about the good things we have and the special people in our lives. I remember I left the theater teary-eyed because I didn't expect that Russell, Carl, and even Ellie would make my heart melt. I'm inspired by the story, and I wish I'd have an adventure that will help me discover and learn new things to make me grow and be a much, much better person. That's how powerful and moving this movie is. :)

UP has been on Star Movies for weeks now and yes, it can still make me cry. ;)

The Year-End Mash-Up


I always look forward to this. Here's DJ Earworm's mash-up for 2012. Enjoy listening! :)

Saturday, December 29, 2012

The Hazelnut


To my forever milk tea buddy, HAPPY BIRTHDAY! :D I hope you enjoyed your ice skating party a while ago. I wish I was there to celebrate your birthday with you. I miss you and see you when classes start! :)
Iwasan ang pagiging malabo. Be true to your word. Whatever you say, mean it. :)

Magandang hapon, hindi na gaanong mapait na mundo.

Thank you for being silly with me too on Auntie Lucy's special day. Your presence at her 80th party is deeply appreciated. I miss you and I hope to see you real soon. :)

The A Cappella Group


Days before our Christmas break, our directress reminded us to watch Pitch Perfect. She was even teasing me that I was part of the film. Startled, she began explaining that there's this one character who's like me--- the way she dress, acts, and communicates with people. ;) I have yet to watch the film. I'm too curious to see this character our directress is talking about. Hihi. I've seen the trailer and it seems interesting. No other accompaniments, just plain a cappella! I'm currently downloading it. :) 
December 26, 2012
Last Wednesday, I had a post- Christmas lunch with my college loves at Apartment 1B in Makati. It was nice to see these girls again. Although we weren't complete, we still had fun. I love them to bits. :)

Thursday, December 27, 2012

The Effect of Doughnuts and Coffee

My November 17 date with best friend Margaret doesn't end at Bulgogi Brothers. After eating dinner, we walked around Alabang Town Center and watched people. Did I ever mention that people watching used to be my favorite hobby way back in college? ;) Sometimes, people watching is good because it can make you realize a lot of things. ;)


We went to Krispy Kreme after to eat doughnuts and talk about the things that matter in life. I'm glad that Margaret was there to listen to all my ramblings about the things I'm going through. I'm learning so much from the advices she gives me. On the other hand, I feel honored when she opens up to me and it's my pleasure to share what I think about her own ramblings. It somehow forces my brain to work double time and I guess it's good. My EQ and IQ work hand-in-hand. ;) On a random note, look at the holiday doughnuts! They're too cute to eat, what do you think?


Since we were the only people at Krispy Kreme, we decided to continue our conversation at Starbucks. While we were there, the weirdest thing happened to me. Before paying for our drinks, the barista asked for my name twice and she spelled it too. I was really confident na she got my name correctly this time. But when the other barista called me, she said "Jana". Medyo natawa ako pero okay lang. For the other drink, I was even more surprised when she said "Tana". Napa-tumbling na ako! Sabay ko in-order yung mga kape pero magkaiba ang pangalan ko. They made our night!


Margaret became worried when I got so hyper after drinking my coffee. She even tried to stop me from driving because "I was not in good condition". Ganyan ako kalala at daig ko pa ata ang nalasing. But I assured her that once I get hold of the manibela, I will be back to my normal state. I sensed that she was kind of nervous when I started driving but when we reached San Pedro exit along the SLEX, okay na siya. ;)

So that's how my date night with my bestfriend went. It was fun and meaningful (because of our conversation about life) and I'm looking forward to another one. :)

The Funny Duo



Brace yourselves, my three avid readers! It has been my goal to upload a video of myself singing. :)) Well, this was an old video (not so old as it was taken only this year.) of Margaret and I, and I guess it's worth sharing. It's not everyday that people see us like this. Hihi. :p Press play and see for yourself. Walang hiya-hiya. ;)

P.S. Please bear with the sound of the electric fan in the background. We forgot to turn it off. (-_-)

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Kapag umasa ka, ihanda mo ang iyong puso, isip, at tissue sa mga bagay na pwedeng mangyari. ;)

Magandang gabi, mapait na mundo.

Happy Holidays from our family to yours! :) ♥

The Quest for the Perfect Barbecue

November 17, 2012- My colleagues told me that aside from the sulit and sumptuous Korean food, the other best thing at Bulgogi Brothers is to get to cook your own barbecue. They say nothing but positive things about this restaurant so last November 17, Margaret and I decided to eat dinner there. We wanted to experience authentic Korean food and of course, cook our own barbecue. When we arrived at the restaurant, it was full of people and the waitress said we're the third in the waiting list. It was already past 8pm and we were so hungry so we both agreed to eat outside. Unfortunately, we weren't able to cook barbecue. We had to follow the restaurant's policy. ;)

The moment we sat on our chair, they served us with salad, corn tea, and other appetizers which are for free. How awesome is that? Margaret and I felt like we were in Korea as we finally got to use their metal chopsticks and rounded spoon. Surprisingly, we liked the eggplant with nuts and the kangkong. Tinipid talaga namin yun. While eating, I also imagined myself being in a Koreanovela waiting for my prince, Lee Min Ho. :)) 


For the main course, we had bibimbap and the Bulgogi Brothers special. These are the best! Really! The beef is so tender; it was properly cooked and it was super duper *insert all sorts of positive adjectives here*! It'll leave you speechless.


And wait, there's more! The friendly waiters and waitresses (yes, plural) served us ice cream for free! We only paid for the bibimbap and the barbecue and the service charge. I also liked the service because they're so friendly and accommodating. Margaret and I were truly the happiest kids that day. ;)

Heart shaped! :)
I love the name of this ice cream. Hihi.
My colleagues were right. It is sulit. We'll definitely go back to Bulgogi Brothers. :)

Sunday, December 23, 2012

The 23rd of December

9th day of Simbang Gabi! It's such a happy night because for the very first time, during mass, I didn't feel sleepy at all. ;)

The elders say that when you complete the nine days of Simbang Gabi, you have to make a wish and it will come true. I didn't get to complete the nine days (was absent last Monday because I had to help the other teachers decorate the classroom for the Christmas party) but I still made a wish. I'm keeping my fingers crossed and I hope that the Big Guy above grants it. Positive vibes all the way! :)

It's 2 days before Christmas! Are you guys excited? :)

The Colorful Things

Because I like colorful things ;)

I decided to drop by Nuvali bazaar this afternoon to buy some Christmas presents. I guess today I was lucky as I got some good deals and discounts from the friendly booth people. I'm not on a panic mode anymore because I'm halfway my Christmas shopping. Yay!

I'm officially on Christmas break starting today, by the way! :)


Wednesday, December 19, 2012

December 18, 2012
Hello, Tuesday! It's a green day for the preschool teachers. Taken minutes before the babies' Christmas party. :)

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

December 16, 2012
Hi... thank you for being silly with me last Sunday. :)

Saturday, December 15, 2012

The 2012 Wishlist

The other day, my toddlers and I talked about Santa Claus. They learned that Santa Claus is a jolly old man who has white hair, wears red robes, and rides a sleigh carried by reindeers. Their eyes lit up when they also learned that Santa Claus likes giving presents to good boys and girls. Suddenly, some of them raised their hands and shared that they're good boys and girls. How cute! While looking at them, I could tell they're all thinking of what they want to receive from "Santa" this Christmas.

Like my toddlers, I also have moments when I think of the things I want to get this Christmas. However, I'm not expecting Santa to give me these because I'm already beyond the stage of believing that he exists. :p Anyway, in no particular order...

 
Whenever I visit a Roxy store, I would always go to the watch section and satisfy my eyes with these colorful arm candies. My watch has just retired so I must get a new one. Unfortunately, my savings usually find its way to National Bookstore. On a different note, having a cute watch would probably motivate me to be always on time.

   
Yes, a Jansport backpack. I need this to keep my colored pens, colored papers, double-sided tapes, glue, googley eyes, paint, popsicle sticks, and the other things that you would see inside a preschool teacher's bag. It's so spacey and it can stand the test of time. It's a matter of quality over quantity.

This is not as important as the first two though.Gusto ko lang talaga magkaroon ng Orly na nail polish. ;) I've seen Patty Laurel's blog about Orly and I fell in love with its lovely colors, most especially the pastels. Colors like the ones you see in the picture suit me well and they totally reflect my personality. I'm such a girly girl, don't you think? :p


Keds sneakers! In our school, it is highly recommended that preschool teachers wear closed shoes. You know, in preschool, kids stepping on your foot more than thrice a day is inevitable as they're very active, so wearing sandals is a big no-no. I'm always on flats and my trusty super sparkly espadrilles. They've been with me through thick and thin and I'm thinking of giving them a much-deserved break. Keds look so comfy, fun, and stylish at the same time, and they look so perfect in a preschool setting. I can't wait to own a pair of Keds soon!

I'd like to believe that this year's wish list is more practical than last year's. Needs over wants. Quality over quantity. And oh, it makes me feel like I'm finally growing up. ;) I'm keeping my fingers crossed and I'm really hoping that I would be able to buy (or maybe, much better if someone would give me hahaha) at least one of these. :)
 

Monday, December 10, 2012


You know what to do.

The 10th Day of December

We don't always get what we want. No matter how hard you've prayed for it, if it's not meant for you, just learn to accept it and move on. Holding on to something that has no bright future will only add up to your emotional baggage. Reality can be harsh sometimes. But if it's the only way for you to grow and be wiser (and happier), dear friend, it's time to let go. It's time to open up your heart to something better. Remember, there's a reason for everything. Whatever you're going through right now, you'll surpass it. You are a strong person. 

Dear friend, you've done your part. Cry a little, or maybe a river. Let it all out. Moving on is not easy, but you can do it. You'll be okay. :)

The Song on the Loop

The song, We'll Be a Dream, by We The Kings ft. Demi Lovato has been on the loop since yesterday. I find this song and its music video inspiring. When it comes to vocals, the voices of Demi Lovato and the band's vocalist have good chemistry (sorry for the lack of term).


On a totally random note, five more days before Auntie Lucy's big day! I can't wait for her 80th birthday celebration. It's not a grand party though, but her closest friends, relatives, and the people who have a special place in her heart are invited. Thinking about it, I realized that reaching the age of 80 is such an amazing blessing. :)

Tuesday, December 04, 2012


Word. :)

Sunday, December 02, 2012

The OPM Playlist

Some old school songs from Filipino bands. Happy Sunday! :)

Kundiman by Silent Sanctuary

Burnout by Sugarfree 

Your Song by Parokya ni Edgar

The Second Day of December

November has been sweet and kind to me. Beautiful things happened when I least expected them and the Big Guy above really made me feel special and blessed. This is the most memorable November ever and I will forever keep the good memories I've made with people who mean a lot to me. November gave me the inspiration I need to be on track.

I hope December does the same.

Sunday, November 25, 2012

The Perks of Being a Teacher


One of the perks of being a teacher is getting surprises from your students. Surprises, whether big or small, can put a smile on our faces. The other day, a student gave Teachers Mariel, Joy, and I a Lego eraser. How sweet of her! :)
 

The Sunday Reflection

My friend Mau once told me, "A prayer can move mountains" and I couldn't agree more. I believe in the power of prayer. A prayer can make miracles, and these miracles can change one's life forever.

Just keep the faith, and the Big Guy up there will take care of everything. Don't give up. :)


Friday, November 23, 2012

The 23rd Day of November

November 17, 2012 :)

Just a teaser. An entry about this will be posted soon. :)

Time After Time

Last week, I was able to spend time with my two favorite friends from childhood--- James and Maggie. I had dinner with James on Wednesday and a date with Maggie on Saturday. It never occurred to me that the week of November 12 would become so memorable. I thought it would only be an ordinary week, but it turned out to be the other way around. As I sit here, reliving the two happiest days of that week, I'd like to think that I must have done something good to deserve such spontaneous bonding days with them.

Let me start my story on the eve of Wednesday, November 14. 

I don't usually go out on a school day because it is a school day, if you get what I mean. My weekdays, except Fridays, are devoted to preparing materials for my preschool and tutorial classes. I normally spend my after school hours cutting, painting, gluing, printing, checking--- stuff that teachers do. But for some reason, I said "Pwede ako after work" to James when he asked if I'm free on Wednesday. So after my tutorials class, I went straight to Solenad 2 to meet him. We decided to eat dinner at Toastbox, since he hasn't tried Nasi Goreng yet. While eating, we talked about anything under the sun moon and the stars rainy sky. ;) We talked about friendship, traveling, cars, book, family, movies, music, food--- you name it. I also showed him the pictures and the videos of my toddlers and natuwa naman siya sa kanila. :p We went to Serenitea after to eat chicken chops and to catch up some more. It was a fun kwentuhan and I learned new things from him. 

James enjoying his chicken chops :)
November 14, 2012 :)

By the way, the title of this entry is Time After Time because it's the song currently playing on my iPod. I can't think of a good title. :( Anyway, here's the cover of Quietdrive. :)


For the nth time, thank you so much, James! :) And Maggie, if you're reading this, we missed you. ;) 


*Up next, date with Maggie*
 

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

And all these little things...



One Direction never fails to make a girl's heart melt. Every girl fell in love with What Makes You Beautiful upon its release last year and it became a worldwide hit. Little Things, the band's newest single, is making waves in the local music channel, radio stations, and even on Youtube. It's a sweet song and I can't blame the girls (including myself haha!) who feel kilig when they listen to it. :)

Sunday, November 11, 2012

The Hobby

This is what happens when you hand me a camera.

The Chestnuts
The Cupcakes
The Comfort Food
The Busy Bee
The Chocolates
What the world needs now is love, sweet love ;)

Taking pictures has always been my favorite hobby since I got my very first digital camera. I love taking pictures of things that interest me as well as priceless moments. The passion has developed over the years. :)

Sunday, November 04, 2012

The Sunday Playlist

Sembreak is almost over but don't feel bad. Christmas break is just around the corner. Hihi. Anyway, here's a playlist for a chill Sunday. Enjoy! :)

Let's Go Surfing by The Drums

Shades of Love by Sumeo 

     
Stuck on You by Meiko


Someday We'll Know by New Radicals
 

Friday, November 02, 2012

The Trending Topic

The trending topic on Twitter today is about #7FactsAboutMyBestFriend. I wanted to join the bandwagon but I guess 140 characters are not enough to describe my bestfriend, so I decided to write here instead. 


Here goes the 7 Facts About My Best Friend:

1. She is beautiful inside and out.

No wonder why she has a lot admirers. She is beautiful, just like her mom, and she has a good heart. She is kind, forgiving, and understanding. She treats people nicely and I have never seen her get upset when things don't go her way. She also likes helping people in any way she can that's why she is truly blessed.   

2. She is a good listener.

She may have a busy schedule but she still finds time to listen to my silly life dramas. She is the kind of friend who tries her best not to fall asleep, no matter how sleepy she is, because you're not yet finished crying your heart out. She is someone you can really trust.  


3. She gives a good advice.

She is not afraid to speak her mind. She doesn't sugar coat words and she makes you realize that life is not all about rainbows and unicorns. Sometimes, what she says is definitely "tagos" but it doesn't mean that she wanted to hurt your feelings--- it means that she cares for you. :) 

4. She is adventurous.

This girl is game for anything. She is not afraid to try something new. You can bring her to a "turo-turo" and eat street food with you. She is willing to watch a sappy or "baduy" movie and does not complain like the "sosy" girls out there (e.g. "Yuck. Seriously, you're like, going to watch that? Ewww). She knows how to have fun that's why there's no dull moment with her.

5. She has a good sense of humor.

She finds ways to make herself happy even if she has a valid reason to be sad. She doesn't let bad vibes go in her system. Instead of crying all day, she chooses to let whatever makes her feel awful go and move on with her life.


6. She is thoughtful.

She always makes sure that you're fine. When she visits us here in Laguna, she has something for everyone and that includes Ate Rosie and Tatay Boy. ;)

7. She loves her friends and family.

Family time is very sacred for her. She makes time for her younger sister, Danica, and for other family members. When it comes to her friends, she does the same. She is always there for her friends too. That's why she is deeply loved by the people around her.
   
See, I told you. 140 characters aren't enough. ;)