We're in a happy place

Last Friday night, I had a date with my lovely friends from high school. We had been planning our "dinner date" ever since but due to some unexpected events, it gets cancelled on the last minute. I'm thankful that it finally pushed through. It was raining hard the day before but I guess the folks up there heard our prayers so they gave in. "Kawawa naman itong mga batang ito, sige na nga, pagbigyan na natin". :p

It was nice seeing these girls again! We ate at Crisostomo in Nuvali and ordered food we don't usually eat at home. We tried chicken tinola with coconut meat, prawns sauteed in garlic, and beaterio (corn in sizzling steak plate melted in cheese), my forever favorite. Over dinner, we had some catching up and talked about anything under the sun moon and the stars. ;)

Our change was inside this chicken. So cool!

with Mau, Marita, and Joy

Hi Joy!

Of course, our dinner date wouldn't be complete without our daily dose of milk tea. I love these lovely ladies because they were game for anything! The people at Serenitea didn't mind us because 1.) they are familiar with us 2.) they are already used to seeing their customers take wacky photos 3.) they don't care at all. Looking funny and silly are 10x better if you're having fun with your friends. :) We also bumped into Karina. It was like a mini-reunion of our batch! It was nice seeing you Karina!

Unfortunately, Mau had to go home early because she has class the next day. While waiting for Marita's dad, we went to Starbucks to eat pastries. We ended the night by planning our next get together. Yes, we're that excited. Haha!

It was indeed a fun night and I'm looking forward to spending more happy dinners with Mau, Marita, and Joy. :)

The Double N

The people at Serenitea always misspell my name but it's okay. It's not a big deal for me. ;)

Every second is a highlight

Last Saturday, I was fortunate enough to spend some time with gradeschool friends. We met at a restaurant in Nuvali then headed straight to Music Plus to sing our hearts out. It was like a trip down memory lane as we chose to sing the songs that were very popular during our gradeschool years. Songs from the Eraserheads, Backstreet Boys, and Jennifer Lopez were played to name a few. Oh, we also sang along to One Direction because Chia is a super big fan of the band and Jesse J. ;) Here are some of the snapshots taken on our "mini-reunion:".

Me, Mariel, Thesa, Chia, and Milli

Whether you believe it or not, it plays a significant role in our gradeschoo life. Please don't judge us. Haha!

The only food we ate.

Ended the night at Serenitea. Shared stories and laughed like we never laughed before. :)) We all had an amazing time. It's definitely one for the books! :)

Yes, it makes sense. :)

*Photo retrieved from Tumblr*

The Birthday Cupcakes

I still find it amazing that a student and I share one thing in common--- we have the same birthday! Cool beans! I just learned about it when his mom sent a message to our directress asking if she could bring food for the kids, teachers, and school staff.

Aside from the usual pasta meal, my student's mom brought cute cupcakes. These cupcakes were a huge hit to all the kiddos because they're cute and attractive. My toddlers keep coming to the table as they were too eager to touch and taste these sweet treats. 

Aren't they cute? Aaand the cupcakes tasted good. Too bad, I didn't really pay attention to what mommy said when she was talking about where she ordered these cupcakes (If I'm not mistaken, I was trying to convince a student, not the birthday celebrant, to eat his food at that time). I hope Teacher Mariel still remembers it, though. :)  

The Monday Playlist

Here's a mini playlist to pump up your Monday. Enjoy listening!

Good Time by Owl City feat. Carly Rae Jepsen

Live While We're Young by One Direction

Settle Down by No Doubt

Pumped Up Kicks by Foster the People 

The Seventh Day of October

Before I turn 22... Happy Sunday everyone! :)

The Christmas Staple

*September 2, 2012*

In the Philippines, Christmas is not complete without this--- puto bumbong. Puto bumbong is made up of glutenous (or sticky) rice, purple food coloring, cups of water, and sugar. The mixture of rice, food coloring, water, and sugar is poured in a bamboo tube. It is already cooked when steam comes out of the tube. It is served with butter (spread it on top and it's good), sugar, and shredded coconut. It is best paired with a hot cup of tea. :) 

Dear Zac

How can I not love you? I watched you talk about how beautiful the Philippines is on Ellen De Generes' show the other day, and you seemed you really enjoyed your short stay in our country.

I haven't gotten over your stint on Ellen then I saw this video of you on Jimmy Kimmel's show. I'm surprised to see you eat balut, and can I just say that I'm so proud of you!

I'm glad to know that you've always wanted to visit the Philippines. You are a fantastic person and sweet, and I'm looking forward to meeting you someday. :) 

Love, Dana :)

The Maroon 5 Fever

As I type this, I'm listening to the songs of my favorite foreign band, Maroon 5. Their songs are on full blast and I've been singing along to most of them, since I started working on my materials for tomorrow's class. I still cannot believe I missed the chance of watching them perform live again. Tickets had been sold out hours after they were released to the public. It's so crazy! Well, that's how Filipinos love Maroon 5. ;) And can I just say, I'm hoping to see them perform live someday. :)

Since most of us have Maroon 5 fever right now, I'm sharing with you some videos I found online, and I'd like to think that these will make your hearts skip a beat.

You're welcome. ;)

The 10th Day of September

Closing Time by Semisonic has been stuck in my head since I finished watching Friends with Benefits. Nice to hear this song again. :)

The Aztec Print

The first time I laid eyes on this cardigan, I didn't let it go. I fell in love with it, and asked the sales associate if I could try it on. I know I promised myself that I wouldn't buy anything for myself because I'm saving up for a new phone and for the upcoming book fair but I couldn't resist it. Hihi.

Sunnies: Popculture| Cardigan: Folded & Hung| Tank top: Penshoppe| Pants: HerBench| Belt: Bayo| Sandals: Jelly Nelly| Rings and Necklace: Bazaar

My clothes are mostly floral and girly so having the aztec printed cardigan adds a refreshing twist in my closet. I like how it spices up my wardrobe. Very trendy indeed!  

I paired it up with my brown tank top which I usually cover up with a floral cardigan. The dream catcher necklace gives it a bohemian vibe. I love it so much! :p 

 Whenever I wear this smiley sun ring, I'm reminded to look at the bright side at all times and smile. :) On the other hand, I love these sandals because they're comfy and fashionable at the same time. I love the color too!

If there's one thing I learned when buying clothes, always think if the one you're holding goes well with your other clothes, accessories, and shoes or sandals. In this way, you can mix and match and it can save you from buying new clothes. ;)

P.S. Got inspiration from Candy Magazine :)

Happy Tummies, Cravings Satisfied

It all started when a mommy brought Freedom fries and cheese quesadilla for her two wonderful daughters who at that time were answering worksheets. Her daughters were extremely happy upon seeing the paper bag from Army Navy, and were so excited to finish their work so they could eat their favorite food. Once they finished their task, they opened the paper bag and pooof! The aroma of the Freedom fries was all over the airconditioned classroom. Then after a while, they started munching on their cheese quesadilla. Goodness, I tried my best not to look at them while eating it. To be honest, it was challenging for me because when one of them asks something, I have no choice but to look at her... and my eyes eventually leads me to the food she's holding. :))

When they left, Teacher Mariel and I talked about what we just had witnessed. To my surprise, she also felt the same way that's why we decided to drop by Army Navy after working hours to satisfy our craving for, well, Freedom fries, cheese quesadilla, and Libertea. 

Ice cold Libertea

cheese quesadilla

Freedom fries

Teacher Mariel and I left with big smiles on our faces! Army Navy stands true to its tagline, "Come in hungry, walk out happy". :)

The Fine Time

It was a long weekend so Margaret and I grabbed the opportunity to meet and catch up. She's now working at a university (but not as an educator) in Batangas and she has been very busy ever since. Despite her hectic schedule, she still found time to spend a day with me and my family here in Laguna.

We went to Alabang Town Center, before going home. I brought Margaret to Toastbox and introduced her to my favorite, Nasi Goreng. We watched a movie after dinner, and talked over donuts at Krispy Kreme after. I won't forget this day because of what we talked about. She made me ponder on things that really matter. ;) I realized that we're all grown up--- not only physically but mentally and emotionally.

Lemon iced tea from Toastbox

Nasi Goreng

Where the conversation started... at Krispy Kreme!

Classic sugar glazed donut

Chocolate chip kruffin

In between talks, we also had our pictures taken. ;)

I love our conversation that night after the movie and I hope there will be a part 2, part 3, part 4, and so on.You get the picture. ;)

I'm still on "The Reunion" (the movie we watched together) high and I haven't gotten over with the songs from the most influential Filipino band of all time, the Eraserheads. I got the title of this blog from one of their songs, Fine Time, from the album Cutterpillow. Enjoy listening! :)

The Groovy Auntie

Meet our groovy aunt, Auntie Sari. She is 90 years old and she plays the piano very well. And she loves dressing up. She loves to wear tailored dresses, dainty tops and pants, and pretty accessories. Today, she surprised us with her printed leggings! ;) I thank God for giving us a healthy, bubbly, and fashionista aunt like Auntie Sari. :) ♥

The Ambitious Dream

Right now, I'm planning my trip to Italy. I know it'll take years (or maybe a decade) for me to be able to save enough money for this ambitious trip (dream) but it makes me feel good and happy, and I'm motivated to work even harder. ;) Anyway, I was so fascinated with Verona and Tuscany the other day that I totally forgot about the lost city of Pompeii. It'll be definitely a part of my itinerary. And Rome! I'd like to see the Trevi Fountain, toss a coin, and make a wish. :)

We didn't mean to scare you. ;)

The Filipino Spirit

I salute the Filipinos who braved the floods and the strong rain just to help our brothers and sisters in need. I'm also glad to know that the youth is using their free time to help in any way they can. The spirit of Bayanihan still remains. I'm proud to say that in my country, everyone is a hero. :)

The rain has stopped and the flood in some areas has subsided. This is great news but I feel bad for those who were greatly affected. Please help me continue praying for them. And as I write this, I heard that there's an earthquake in California, rained snow in Africa, and a volcanic eruption in New Zealand. With this, I realized that God and Mother Nature are trying to send a message to us. Through these heart-breaking events that happen in our world lately, I hope that we learned something. Be safe everyone and pray always. :)

The Reunion Part 3

Photo retrieved from Myx

It's not just a rumor. This poster makes it official. Will there be a Manila repeat? I wish! :)

The Magic of Tuscany

Two years ago, my aunt and uncle who live in San Francisco, decided to renew their marriage vows in Tuscany, Italy. Afterall, it was their golden wedding anniversary and it had to be special. My cousins, nieces and nephews, and Aunt Sari were there to celebrate the special moment with them. It was a simple wedding, but it was very solemn and magical. I can tell that they enjoyed every moment, as seen in the pictures they sent me in my e-mail.   

Tuscany is such a lovely place, though I haven't been there. I had the chance to catch a glimpse of Tuscany once again when I watched the film, Letters to Juliet. The beautiful landscapes and the vineyards plus the "lemony sunshine", as some writers describe the Tuscan hillside, are the perfect ingredients to make the film more interesting, meaningful, and romantic. My aunt and uncle were so lucky to have their golden wedding here.

  

After watching the film, I think I want to pack my things and fly to Italy, particularly in Verona and of course, Tuscany. They made it to my list of places I want to see someday. I fell in love with them, like how Charlie and Sophie fell in love with each other. :)

On a random note, can you imagine how kilig I was when Claire, Charlie's grandmother, finally found her long-lost love, Lorenzo, after 51 years? That's what you call true love. I still can't get over and I'm so happy for them. :)

Lorenzo and Claire

Charlie and Sophie

"What" and "If" are two words as non-threatening as words can be. But put them together side by side and they have the power to haunt you for the rest of your life: What if? What if? What if? -from the film, Letters to Juliet

*Photos retrieved from Google Images*

The 7th Day of August

Exactly twenty five minutes from now, one of my friends from grade school will be celebrating his 22nd birthday. How time flies! I can still remember the first time I saw him way back in grade school. ;) He used to be my seatmate when we were in grade three and I will never ever forget that infectious laughter which made me call him, "Tawa". If I hear him laugh like he did before, I'd probably record it because I have missed it. There, I said it. :p

James, because you are my friend and this is your special day and I have colored papers and my Sharpies beside me, this one is for you!

My grade school years would have been totally different without your presence. I'm grateful because our paths have crossed. Thank you for being understanding and for all the advices you have shared with me. And make the most out of your 20's! Live, laugh, love. :)

The Rainy Night

The Crystals | July 30, 2012

It has been raining cats and dogs... and hippos and elephants recently. That's how bad the weather is in the Philippines. Classes and even work were suspended because it's not safe to go outside. :( I wonder if we'll have classes tomorrow as it started raining again. Hmmm...

I took advantage of my "rest time" (I've been checking papers the whole day and uploading our kiddos photos on our Facebook group) and took photos of the things I find interesting in our living room. I just realized that our living room has a lot of vintage items--- from figurines, lights, to small paintings that depict life in the 20's and 30's. Here's one of the photos I took and I just love the effect: Classy yet mysterious. :)  

I hope everyone's safe and dry. :)

The Chocolate Chip Cookie

*July 20, 2012*

It's the first time I took photos of our kiddos' baon. Last Friday, our snack time table was loaded with food that contained chocolates--- a chocolate chip cookie, crackers with chocolate filling, and chocolate donuts. Chocolate overload, I must say. The food that really caught me off guard was the chocolate chip cookie. :)) It was so big and it looked so good. This week, I shall visit The French Baker's branch near the school to buy one for myself.

For the record, the kiddos never fail to make me and Teacher Mariel feel hungry or crave for the food they bring in school. Well, I'd like to believe that the preschool teachers out there can relate to us. This is the story of our lives. ;)

A Breath of Fresh Air

Change is the only permanent thing in this world, so they say. It is inevitable and we have no choice but to accept and embrace it with open arms. Well, at some point, it is not easy to accept and embrace change because we are afraid to let go of our comfort zones. But change is good, in my honest opinion, because it gives us a feeling of being a "brand new" and a better person.

Just in case you're thinking if I thought about this while driving home from work, oh yes I did. ;)

I've been reading a lot of articles from Thought Catalog lately--- the ones that talk about life and how great it is to live, specially if you are in your 20's. I'd like to think that life in the 20's is way cooler than in the teenage years because there's more freedom and more opportunities to explore the world. Quoting Ryan O' Connell, "One thing you don't realize in your 20's is that anything is possible... This is your moment." With this, I have to say that our 20's is our time to shine. :)

I also rediscovered my indie playlist and it's nice to hear songs that are only played on the radio (or in our local music channel) once in a blue moon. It's so refreshing and chill and very appropriate for my entry today. ;) So I end this post by sharing a nice song from the band, The Naked and the Famous. Press play and feel the youthful vibe of Young Blood.

*Quote taken from Things I Wish People Told Me When I Entered My 20's*

The First Day of July

Everyday, on my way home, I couldn't help but think of many things and reflect about the life I have since I graduated from college. I remember, as a fresh graduate from this prestigious university, I was really assertive when it comes to applying and sending my resume from one preschool to another, hoping that I would get a call back. My summer in the year 2010 was dedicated to demo-teaching and interviews with the high officials of schools. My communication skills and way of thinking were really challenged at that time. I gave my 101% in every task they asked me to do to show them that I'm the preschool teacher they're looking for. I was passionate. I had this spark, the spark that most fresh graduates have after stepping their best foot forward in the real world.

Now, the big question is, do I still have the spark? And then followed by, am I as passionate as I was two years ago?

I found myself reading this article from Philippine Star the other day. It was posted by a high school classmate on Facebook and as I read it, wow. Let me share with you the lines that struck me most.

 "The truth is, you will never be as passionate as your Fresh Grad self ever again. Make that passion last as long as you can. I don’t want to be dramatic, but really, that sparkle? Once it’s gone, you can never take it back. Oo, parang virginity lang.

So while you have it, savor the moment. Go make mistakes, while you’re still expected to be imperfect. Go cry in the cubicle, while your age allows it. Go sing Hand in My Pocket and You Learn at the karaoke bar, while you’re still “young and underpaid.” Go chase your dreams and change the world. The best time to change the world? It’s right after college, when you are f*cking sure you can."

It was like the author was talking to me. Just what I need. Coincidence, perhaps? Well, I'm not a fresh graduate anymore but in my honest opinion, this article is not only limited to the fresh graduates. It is also meant for anyone who considers quitting as the only way to get away with real world problems. Don't quit just because someone said you're not good enough, you're dumb, someone's better than you, or you don't fit their standards. Prove them wrong.

I've been teaching since 2010 but I still make mistakes. I haven't reached the level of perfection, if there's such thing. I cry, but I don't let my mistakes bring me down. Sometimes, I sing my heart out when I drive and I don't mind the odd stares I get from the people who can see me from the outside. ;) I let all the frustrations out of my system, and I replace them with positive things. Or sometimes, I talk to someone I trust. It really helps.

Now going back to the big question, do I still have the spark? I'm glad I came across this article. Pakiramdam ko kasi nawawala na ung spark/sparkle na nasa sa akin dati, at unti-unti na rin nawawala ung passion. I realize that I shouldn't let the spark/sparkle and the passion go. I still have a long, long way to go. And I'm going to need these in chasing my dreams and in helping change the world. This article is definitely an eye-opener for me.