It's me

Being with you..

2010-09-10T03:24:00.000-07:00

I hope one day I'll be with this man...

We fit together so well...it's like pieces of a puzzle, the way your hand fits the curve of my hip and the way my head rests on your shoulder, the way our hands just melt into one, and the way I feel complete when I'm with you...like the picture's finally completed and I'll never have to wonder what I'm missing.”

Tired

2009-10-16T23:35:00.000-07:00

I look to a day when people will not judge me by my past; but by the content of my heart and character. Because I'm tired of proving myself. I'm tired of pleasing others so as they will love me and accept me for who I am. I'm tired of proving myself worthy of others' expectation. I just wanna be me and be loved because this is me. I am not perfect. Not everything is under my control. Things are happening as they are. Some are good, some are bad. But, I'm tired of being judge because of the mistakes happened in my life. I don't know whether it's me or the whole world around me that has gone wrong, but I keep trying and get up everyday with new hope and faith. We all have past - some not so great and some not half bad - but we all have futures. And in everyday of my life, I want to look what is there waiting for me; rather than look back. I am who I am.

We often ignore ourselves in favor of others. We value their opinions too highly and our own too little. The only real approval that matters is that which comes from inside ourselves. We're the only people who know what we truly need and want. This makes us our own best judge of whether or not what we're doing is right and good for us.

Come True

2009-09-18T17:21:00.000-07:00

Can't wait to feel, can't wait to say
how much I'm thankful that you're here to stay

My heart was wounded and you came to heal
My eyes can't stop crying but I'm special you made me feel

When life is tough and I feel pain
I know you're there to wipe my tears
to give me hope, to give me strength
to make me see how wonderful life is

Another day without your laugh,
Another day might just pass by,
But now i know how much it means,
For you to stay right here with me

And I thank God for knowing you
And I thank God for having you
And I just hope that you will say
forever friends that's how we'll stay

And when life is passing growing older
When we seriously can't see and hear
Then I want to grow old with you
That is just how my dream will come true

Forever Friendship

2009-08-17T19:23:00.000-07:00

Sometimes in life, you find a special friend. Someone who changes your life just by being a part of it. Someone who makes you laugh until you can't stop. Someone who makes you believe that there really is good in the world. Someone who convinces you that there really is an unlocked door just waiting for you to open it. This is forever friendship. When you're down and the world seems dark and empty, your forever friend lifts you up in spirit and makes that dark and empty world suddenly seem bright and full. Your forever friend gets you through the hard times, the sad times and the confused times. If you turn and walk away, your forever friend follows. If you lose your way, your forever friend guides you and cheers you on. Your forever friend holds your hand and tells you that everything is going to be okay. And if you find such a friend, you feel happy and complete because you need not worry. You have a forever friend, and forever has no end.

Back to Normal

2009-07-05T01:12:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to see the day that I could smile with my heart again.. All these years that I kept on fighting for something I thought deserve my lifetime, wounded me in the most piercing way I could ever imagine. I thought I have already experienced the deepest hurt one could ever have. I was moving on then. How could these things happen all over again? How will I face another morning? I feel afraid. How will I sleep in the evening? I feel strange. I am scared...My faith is shaking...

One day, I'll be the same person I used to love. One day, I'll hear that voice again telling me not to loose faith. Someday, I'll be someone who could walk with head held high because I survived the test of time. Someday...I'll see these things come to pass...and have a big smile once again..

For now, I got to keep going...I got to be strong.I am not breaking..I am not loosing the remaining hope I have...

I can't wait to see myself back to normal.....confident, brave, faithful and complete...

It's The Climb...

2009-06-27T22:52:00.000-07:00

The Climb
Alexander, J; Mabe, J;

I can almost see it
That dream I am dreaming
But there's a voice inside my head saying
"You'll never reach it"

Every step I'm taking
Every move I make feels
Lost with no direction
My faith is shaking

But I gotta keep trying
Gotta keep my head held high

There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be a uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb

The struggles I'm facing
The chances I'm taking
Sometimes might knock me down
But no, I'm not breaking

I may not know it
But these are the moments that
I'm gonna remember most, yeah
Just gotta keep going

And I, I got to be strong
Just keep pushing on

'Cause there's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be a uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb, yeah!

There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be an uphill battle
Somebody's gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb, yeah!

Keep on moving, keep climbing
Keep the faith, baby
It's all about, it's all about the climb
Keep the faith, keep your faith, whoa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wdZoVtTdC0

It's Been Quite Sometime

2009-06-26T21:25:00.000-07:00

I don't even know how to start..It's been a long time since I've visited my blog! And I felt a little sad knowing that there was someone who waited for my advice after writing "Standing Still", and I wasn't able to give one:(..

If it wasn't for what I am feeling now, I wouldn't have opened and started writing for my blog again. Have you ever felt confused because you let something come into your life and you regret it simply because you're not prepared to handle it?

For quite sometime, I got confused. Something got me blurred because I let myself belive into something unrealistic. Something impossible in this world..huh!What's in the world...:(

Standing Still

2008-05-20T03:24:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt like stopping everything in your life coz you're afraid you might get hurt again even by just doing the least action possible? When i felt that, it's like the end of everything for me. It's like giving up coz I believe I already gave my best and yet I still got the deepest pain one could probably have. What more can I give?

I did not ask for so much wealth, for so much fame..all i want is to have a simple and happy life. I thought life is so good to me until I experienced a very unexpected problem. I wasn't prepared when it came. It's the total opposite of what I believe I have in life. If given a choice, I would have chosen to die right at that moment. I could no longer breathe. I could no longer live. I could no longer bear the pain. But then, because of my loved ones I decided to give up myself but not them. I decided to live for them. I decided to keep the pain inside and continue to live for my loved ones. I even decided to continue loving the person/s who have hurt me. I decided to forgive...

Standing still, I don't wanna look back coz all were pains and just illusions of what life I thought I have. But standing still, I'm also afraid to look forward coz i'm afraid of what's waiting for me there. I felt like standing still and just close my eyes...

Life is never fair, but God is! He knows our heart and he feels what's inside it. This hope makes me decide not to just stand still, but stand firm...now i can open my eyes..but not looking backward nor forward instead, looking above knowing that God is there to guide my steps throughout life's journey...

Setting Review: The Beach

2008-04-16T21:04:00.000-07:00

"The Beach" -- in which Leonardo DiCaprio follows up his "Titanic" shipwreck by playing a breezy young backpacker in a secret tropical island paradise near Thailand - is a breath-taking movie not because of how the story goes but because of the place that looks like a real paradise for me.

What a fantastic location to look forward to. I am someone who would like to travel and these places definitely attract me. Some of the locations I have learned from this movie are:

Phi Phi Island (pronounced Pee Pee), some 30 kilometres off Kabri province, is one of the world's most beautiful tourist destinations. Now a National Park, it comprises of two rocky tree-covered islets -- Phi Phi Don with long, white powdery beaches and Phi Phi Le, uninhabited but blessed with a crystal-clear sea, secluded beaches, cliffs and colourful coral reefs. On the western part of Phi Phi Leh is Maya Bay, a white, sandy beach dominated by a high cliff -- the main location they used for the film. Two other islands: Bamboo Island and Mosquito Island, were used for the scene when the three main leads swam to the beach.

Phuket - Phuket (pronounced poo-get) is Thailand's largest island and one of the most popular holiday destinations in south-east Asia, attracting up to one million visitors each year. The film studios in Talang were used for interiors as well as the beach bungalows. Many other locations around the island were also used.

Krabi - Krabi city and province doubled for Khao San Road and the marijuana field. In Krabi city they built a large reclining Buddha which can still be seen.

Khao Yai National Park - Khao Yai National Park covers an area of over 2000 square kilometers and the wildlife includes many endangered mammals such as elephants, gibbons, tigers, leopards and Malaysian sun bears. The park was used for the waterfall scene when the three main stars first arrived at the beach.

I think the film is well made and has plenty of place and style. It provides reasonable evidence of a worthwhile cinematic point of view, albeit one in search of something to say. There's a certain amount of worth in their approach, though, as noted, the basic story proves less of a vessel than it might for what was initially such a forceful voice. Individual scenes are impressive, and on the whole it holds together well enough to at least tell its story, such as it is. Likewise the cast do their best with the material provided. DiCaprio is a movie star of the first magnitude, and though he has been hyped to a point where his acting may become moot, he has proved himself capable of holding centre stage on previous occasions even when pitched against material (Romeo + Juliet) and pyrotechnic distractions (Titanic) which would crush a lesser man. His reading of the character is entirely appropriate, shifting from fresh-faced idealist to borderline psychotic, and though he does his best to invest it with depth, there is simply not enough there for it to be really convincing. His star power keeps the film going though, especially when it becomes evident that even Tilda Swinton (Orlando) can't do much with her tribal leader, around whom much of the later tension should revolve, and thus that no genuine drama is likely to appear. The ubiquitous Carlyle is very enjoyable in his brief role, and certainly makes more of an impression than either of the French youngsters who spend more time on screen as the rather tokenistic European counterfoils to DiCaprio's American ("I don't think in kilometres", he smugly tells them at one point).

The Beach will work best with young teenagers, though, as noted, it may well simply serve to reinforce self-satisfied postmodern amorality and sell some music albums rather than serve as a journey to the contemporary heart of darkness. This is a pity, but the fault is less with the modern audience than with the film itself, which simply lacks the conviction of any of its literary or cinematic predecessors on the level of story to really make an impact.

What they have created here however is a striking if transient film, a deeply sensual and heavily hedonistic experience.

It is rich, sweet and the pleasure of living in this perfect coastal lagoon ripens until it begins to cloy and then decay, as if the dark fruit of paradise had suddenly gone off with a terrible whiff. And perhaps not intentionally, the movie mirrors this change: enthralling, vivid and stunning to begin with; deteriorating and increasingly flawed as the reels roll on.

In short, I was able to like the movie not because of the story but because of the Imagination that was trying to fashion a haunting image of "paradise": warm winds, palm trees, turquoise water and white sand, a band of like-minded, firm-fleshed Crusoe.

Movie Review: Chasing Amy

2008-04-16T20:56:00.000-07:00

In CHASING AMY, Holden falls for Alyssa who doesn't share Holden's interest in a romance as she is gay. Despite this, the two grow closer and begin to look upon one another as friends. It's an alien concept to Holden that he can be friends with a woman, especially one he's not sleeping with and even more surprising for Alyssa that she feels that same way about a man. Yet, adventurous by nature, she has left herself open to finding her soul mate. Gradually their friendship turns to love, which disrupts their lives and at the same time estranges Banky from Holden.

It is a love story about two seemingly incompatible lovers. Both Alyssa and Holden are thrown curveballs: hers that she falls in love with a man, his that love cannot save him from himself.

The film further explores how two people's love for one another can alter their own perceptions about themselves. What and who we think we and others are changes all the time. Points of view, obsessions, insecurities, everything shapes our self-image. So, is she by definition gay? My gay friends say no. She couldn't fall in love with Holden if she were. OK, then what is she? Is she what she thinks she is or what Holden thinks she is, or none of the above?” Although Alyssa says she is gay, she doesn't feel constrained by her sexual orientation

The film shows situations that people go through and the lessons from making mistakes in life. Some people find themselves chasing for the perfect person their entire life, not realizing that the person for them is right in front of them. Nobody’s perfect. When we love someone, we love him as what he is including his past.

This film also looks at some love as being selfish or self-centered. There is a saying that if you love someone, sets him free. Let him do what he wants to explore for self discovery and not hold his dreams and freedom.

It looks at how perceptions alter our lives and how our irrational, though human obsessions and self-doubts seem to drive a wedge between us and those we love.

WOW Philippines

2008-04-16T20:55:00.000-07:00

The Philippines adopts the WoW Philippines tourism campaign. WoW! is a positive exclamation for something that is pleasant to the senses. It is also an acronym which stands for Wealth o f Wonders. The campaign showcases the country's myriad of more-than-the usual attractions which are complemented by warm smile and hospitable Filipino people as well as value-for-money and world-class tourist service facilities. Based on travel demographics, foreign visitors value the friendliness of the Filipino people as the number one consideration in travel satisfaction rating.

The country is an archipelago comprising more than 7,100 islands and endowed with diverse and world-renowned wonders: from having the 2nd deepest ocean and one of the most comprehensive marine systems in the world; smallest but very active volcano in Taal Lake, Batangas; biggest eagle in Davao; one of the best beach destinations in Boracay; largest and most valuable pearl in the world found in Palawan; one of the biggest concentration of migratory birds found in Olango Island, Cebu; most perfect conical-shaped Mayon Volcano in Legaspi; smallest primate (Tarsier) found in Bohol; sweetest mango in Zambales; one of the richest orchid flora in the world; old and historical battle wreck sites in Subic; to the majestic hand-carved Banaue Rice Terraces which is considered as the 8th wonder of the modern world!

The Philippines' people, history and culture with various influences from Malay, Spanish, Chinese, Arab, Thai, Mexican, English, Dutch, American and Japanese truly makes the country as the melting pot of the East and the West. The Philippines is the only predominantly catholic country in Asia where visitors will be amazed by the testimonial beauty of UNESCO Heritage sites of baroque churches in Paoay, Ilocos and Miyag-ao, Iloilo, and Asia's "Sistine Chapel," the San Agustine Church in Intramuros, Manila. In terms of indigenous tribal links, the Philippines' Bontoc natives and Taiwan's Atayal mountain tribal people are believed to have come from the same Austronesian stock which island hopped from Asia to influence the old Polynesia and New Zealand.

The Philippines is also readily accessible from the travel capitals of the world.

Here are some of the trivias I have discovered:

- The exotic jeepney is a post-war creation inspired by the GI jeeps that the American soldiers brought to the country in the 1940s. Enterprising Filipinos salvaged the surplus engines and came out unique vehicles of art.

- Short distance and feeder trips could not be more exciting than via Philippine quick transports – the tricycle, a motorcycle with a sidecar, and the pedicab, a bicycle with a sidecar.

- The world’s longest underground river system accessible to man can be found at the St. Paul National Park in the province of Palawan.

- The largest Philippine wild animal, the tamaraw, is a species of the buffalo that is similar to the carabao. It is found only in the island of Mindoro.

- The highest mountain in the Philippines is Mt. Apo, a dormant volcano found in Mindanao, at 2,954 meters (9,689 feet). Mt. Pulog in Luzon is the second highest at 2,928 meters (9604 feet).

- Filipino bowler Rafael "Paeng" Nepomuceno was the first bowler to be elevated to the International Bowling Hall of Fame based in St. Louis, Missouri, USA. The Philippine Congress has named him “Greatest Filipino Athlete of All Time.”

- Philippine National Hero and writer Jose Rizal could read and write at age 2. He grew up to speak more than 20 languages, including Latin, Greek, German, French, and Chinese. What were his last words? "Consummatum est!" ("It is done!")

- The largest city in the Philippines is Davao City. With an area of 2,211 sq. km., it is about three times the size of the national capital, Metro Manila.

- Cebu is the oldest Philippine city.

- Negros Occidental has the most cities among Philippine provinces.

- Filipinos celebrate the world’s longest religious holiday. The Christmas season begins on September 1st, as chillier winds and Christmas carols start filling the air, and ends on the first week of January, during the Feast of the Three Kings.

- Paskuhan Village in the province of Pampanga is Asia’s only Christmas theme park and the third of its kind in the world.

- The great Christmans lanterns of San Fernando, Pampanga can reach as big as 40 feet in diameter, using as many as 16,000 glowing bulbs.

- The exotic jeepney is the Filipino version of the jitney, the taxi/minibus that travels along a fixed route, found in many countries.

- The popular toy, the yoyo, was invented by 16th century hunters in the Philippines.

- The word "boondocks," which is now a part of the English language, dictionary, and vocabulary, comes from the Tagalog word "bundok," meaning "mountain."

- The Philippines became the first Asian country to win FIVE major international beauty pageant crowns — two for Miss Universe, in 1969 and 1973, and three for Miss International, in 1965, 1970, and 1979.

- Diving paradise Anilao, in the province of Batangas, is the theme of a picture book that bagged the International Prize for Underwater Images at the 27th World Festival of Underwater Images in France in November 2000. “Anilao" book creators and Filipino scuba divers Scott Tuason and Eduardo Cu Unjieng defeated big names in underwater photography such as Jacques Mayol, Pascal Kobeh, Monique Walker, and Alessandro Tommasi.

- The biggest game preserve and wildlife sanctuary in the Philippines is located on Calauit Island in Palawan, which has the largest land area among the Philippine provinces.

- The antibiotic erythromycin — used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections, such as respiratory tract infections, middle ear infections, and skin infections — was created by Filipino scientist Abelardo Aguilar, and has earned American drug giant Eli Lilly billions of dollars. Neither Aguilar nor the Philippine government received royalties.

- Fernando Amorsolo was officially the first National Artist of the Philippines. He was given the distinction of National Artist for Painting in 1972.

- Philippines Herald war journalist Carlos P. Romulo was the first Asian to win a Pulitzer Prize in Journalism in 1942. He was also aide-de-camp to General Douglas MacArthur in World War II; Philippine resident commissioner in the U.S. Congress from 1944-46; and the first Asian to become UN President in 1949.

- The largest fish in the world, the Whale Shark, locally known as Butanding, regularly swims to the Philippine waters.

- The world’s shortest and lightest freshwater fish is the dwarf pygmy goby (Pandaka Pygmaea), a colorless and nearly transparent species found in the streams and lakes of Luzon. Males have an average length of 8.7 mm. and weigh 4-5 mg.

- On January 18, 1995, Pope John Paul II offered mass to an estimated 4 to 5 million people at Luneta Park, Manila, Philippines, making it to the Guiness Book of World Records for the Biggest Papal Crowd.

- The Philippine Madrigal Singers bagged the 1997 European Choral Grand Prix, the choral olympics of the world’s best choirs. The group, being the only Asian choir, bested five regional champions from all over Europe, earning them the title as the "world’s best choir."

- There are 12,000 or so species of seashells in the Philippines. The Conus Gloriamaris or "Glory of the Sea" is the rarest and most expensive in the world.

- Of the 500 known coral species in the world, 488 are found in the Philippines.

- Of the eight species of marine turtles worldwide, five are reported to be found in the Philippines: the Green Turtle, Hawkbill, Leatherback, Olive Ridley, and Loggerhead.

- Of the eight known species of giant clams in the world, seven are found in the Philippines.

- The Basilica of San Sebastian is the only steel church in Asia and was the second building to be made out of steel, next to the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

- The largest bell in Asia hangs at the belfry of the 221-year old Panay Church. It is 7 feet in diameter and 7 feet in height, and weighs 10.4 tons. Its tolling can be heard as far as 8 km. away. It was casted from 70 sacks of coins donated by the townspeople as a manifestation of faith and thanksgiving.

- The World Cup, which was instituted in 1965, is contested annually by the national champions of the Federation Internationale des Quilleurs (FIQ). The highest number of wins is 4, by Filipino bowler Rafael “Paeng” Nepomuceno: 1976, 1980, 1992, and 1996.

- Filipino Eriberto N. Gonzales Jr. consumed 350 chilis in 3 minutes at the annual Magayon Festival chili-eating contest held at Penaranda Park, Legazpi, Albay on May 27, 1999, making it to the Guiness Book of World Records for the most chilis eaten.

- The longest possible eclipse of the Sun is 7 min. 31 sec. The longest eclipse in recent times took place west of the Philippines on June 20, 1995, lasting for 7 min. 8 sec.

- Camiguin province holds the distinction of having the most number of volcanoes per square kilometer than any other island on earth. It is also the only place in the Philippines which has more volcanoes (7) than towns (5).

- The 900 sq m Relief Map of Mindanao in Dapitan City was personally done by Dr. Jose Rizal. It was used as a device for teaching history and geography to townsfolk.

- The Zamboanga Golf Course and Beach Park was founded in 1910 by Gov. John Pershing. It is one of the oldest golf courses in the Philippines.

- Isabela City is the youngest city in the region. It was only on March 5, 2001 that the Municipality of Isabela, Province of Basilan was converted into a component city Through RA 9023. On April 25, 2001, Isabeleños ratified the new status of Isabela.

- The Kinabayo is an exotic and colorful pageant re-enacting the Spanish-Moorish Wars, particularly the Battle of Covadonga where the Spanish forces under General Pelagio took their last stand against the Saracens. They were able to reverse the tide of war with the miraculous apparition of St. James, the Apostle. A Kinabayo Festival is celebrated every July in Dapitan City, attracting thousands of tourists to the city.

- The altar at the Holy Rosary Cathedral in Dipolog City was designed by Dr. Jose Rizal. The Cathedral was erected by the Spanish friars sometime in 1895, before Dipolog City became a municipality.

- The Rizal Shrine in Dapitan City is the original estate of Dr. Jose Rizal which he acquired by purchase during his exile in Dapitan from 1892 to 1896.

- RA 8973 signed by then President Joseph E. Estrada in February 2001 created the province of Zamboanga Sibugay. A total of sixteen municipalities compose this newest province in the Zamboanga Peninsula.

- Magat Dam is Asia’s biggest dam project at the time of its construction. It serves the primary function of power generation and irrigation.

- The Cagayan River or Rio Grande de Cagayan is the Philippines’ mightiest watercourse – the longest and widest river in the country. Small streams originating form Balete Pass, Cordillera, Caraballo and Sierra Madre Mountains meet other streams and rivers and flow to the Cagayan River.

- Magapit Suspension Bridge is the first of its kind in Asia. It spans the Cagayan River at Lallo and is 0.76 kilometers long. The hanging bridge links the first and second districts of Cagayan going towards the Ilocos Region via the scenic Patapat Road on the Ilocos Norte-Cagayan Inter-Provincial national highway.

- Angono Petroglyphs – This cultural heritage site dates back to circa 3000 B.C. and is the most ancient Filipino, or more aptly, prehistoric Filipino work of art. Besides being the country’s oldest “work of art” it also offers us an evocative glimpse into the life of our ancestors. The site has been included in the World Inventory of Rock Art under the auspices of UNESCO, ICCROM and ICOMOS and nominated as one of the “100 Most Endangered Sites of the World.

- PANCIT HABHAB (Lucban)-Made from rice flour, these local noodles acquired its name and developed its unique attraction by the way it is eaten. Otherwise known as Pancit Lucban, these noodles are hawked in the streets and served on a piece of banana leaf, sans fork or any other utensils. Thus, it is eaten straight from the leaf, licking permitted... "habhab"-style.

- Tagala - the Philippines first Filipino-Spanish dictionary which was printed in 1613, 25 years older than the first book printed in the United States.

- Mayon is the most beautiful mountain I have ever seen, the world-renowned Fujiyama (Mt. Fuji) of Japan sinking into perfect insignificance by comparison. British traveler-writer A. Henry Savage Landor

- Ilo-Ilo golf and country club is the oldest golf club in the Philippines. It was built at 1908 by Irish Engineers.

- Limasawa Island – where Ferdinand Magellan first landed in the Philippines which give way to the discovery of the Philippines and where the first mass was celebrated.

- San Juanico Strait - said to be the narrowest yet the most navigable strait in the world

- Calbiga Cave – The Philippines’ biggest karst formations and one of the largest in Asia, the 2,968-hectare cave system is composed of 12 caves with wide underground spaces, unique rock formations and sub-terranean watercourse.

- At the Immaculate Conception Cathedral can be found the only existing pipe organ in Mindanao. The 2nd largest pipe organ in the Phiippines. The huge instrument took 2 years to built and was brought over by sea from Germany in 23 crates.

- Cagayan de Oro City - “The City of Golden Friendship,” known for its warm people and old-fashioned hospitality

- Mt. Apo, the Philippines highest mountain at 10,311 feet above sea level, -and considered as the “Grand-father of all Philippine Mountains”

- Lake Lanao is the second largest lake in the Philippines, probably the deepest in the country and is considered one of the major tropical lakes in Southeastern Asia. The lake is home of endemic cryprinids, the species found only in the lake and nowhere else in the world.

- Halo-Halo! Halo-halo literally means, "mix-mix". And its is just that: a mixture of sweetened fruits and beans, lavished with pinipig (crisp flattened rice flakes), sugar and milk, topped by crushed ice and ice cream. You know its summertime when halo-halo stand start sprouting by the roadside and by the beach, all whipping up their heavenly concoctions of such a refreshingly divine dessert. You can make your own by selecting and mixing your ingredients to make a perfect Halo-Halo. Halo-Halo is uniquely, unforgettably Filipino!

- KALESA - The kalesa or karitela is a horse-driven carriage that was introduced during the 18th century. It was used by Spanish officials and the nobles as a means of transportation. The Ilustrados, the rich Filipinos who had their own businesses, used the kalesa not only for traveling but as a means a means of transporting their goods as well.

- BAKYA-Made primarily of lightwood (laniti and santol trees), it is sculpted with a slope and shaved to a smooth finish, then painted with floral designs or varnished to a high sheen. The upper portions, which are made of rubber or transparent plastic, are fastened to the sides by thumb nails called "clavitos". The bakya industry prospered during the 1930s when the Filipinos began exporting these to the other countries.

- SORBETES-This sweet treat was concocted in the early 1920's, a time where a single centavo could buy you almost anything. The process of this ice cream making and selling it in carts with colorful designs is still the same. Back in the old days, these ice cream dealers bred their own cows and milked them with their own hands to ensure the freshness and sanitation of the milk needed to make the "dirty ice cream".

- Waling Waling Orchids - With some 800 to 1,000 species of orchids, the Philippines has one of the richest orchid floras in the world. Philippine orchids come in an amazing array of shapes, sizes and colors. Most grow only in old-growth forest, often on branches of huge trees dozens of meters above the forest floor.

- Maria Teresa Calderon – A Filipina World champion speed reader as listed in the Guinness Book of World Records

- In the Philippines, Filipinos were introduced to the English language in 1762 by British invaders, not Americans. Philippines is the world's 3rd largest English-speaking nation, next to the USA and the UK.

- The Philippine Basketball Association is Asia's premier and the world's second oldest professional league.

- Philippine Airlines took to the skies on March 15, 1941, using a Beech Model 18 aircraft amid the specter of a global war. It became Asia's first airline.

- The world's largest pearl was discovered by a Filipino diver in a giant Tridacna (mollusk) under the Palawan Sea in 1934. Known as the "Pearl of Lao-Tzu", the gem weighs 14 pounds and measures 9 1/2 inches long and 5 1/2 inches in diameter. As of May 1984, it was valued at US$42 million. It is believed to be 600 years old.

- Alto Broadcasting System (ABS) Channel 3, the first television station in the country, went on the air in 1953.

- The world's second deepest spot underwater is in the Philippines. This spot, about 34,440 feet (10,497 meters) below the sea level, is known as the Philippine Deep or the Mindanao Trench. The Philippine Deep is in the floor of the Philippine Sea. The German ship Emden first plumbed the trench in 1927.

- The symbolic name for the Philippines, Juan dela Cruz, is not a Filipino invention? It was coined by R. McCulloch-Dick, a Scottish-born journalist working for the Manila Times in the early 1900s, after discovering it was the most common name in blotters.

- Lipa City in Batangas is dubbed as the “Rome of the Philippines” because of the number of seminaries, convents, monasteries, retreat houses, and a famous cathedral located in it.

- Compostela Valley is known to be laden with gold, thus earning the monicker “Golden Valley of Mindanao”

- Basilica of St. Martin de Tours in Taal, Batangas built by Augustinian Missionaries in 1572, is reputed to be the biggest catholic church in East Asia. It is so huge that it can house another big church

- Kibungan is known as the “Switzerland of Bengued” because of the frost during the cold months

- The Delmonte Pineapple Plantation in Bukidnon is considered to be the biggest in the far east

- Both Tridacna gigas, one of the world's largest shells, and Pisidum, the world's tiniest shell, can be found under Philippine waters. Tridacna gigas grows as large as one meter in length and weighs 600 pounds while Pisidum is less than 1 millimeter long. A shell called glory of the sea (Connus gloriamaris) is also found in the Philippines and considered as one of the most expensive shells in the world.

- Seahorses are small saltwater fish belonging to the Syngnathidae family (order Gasterosteiformes), which also includes pipefish and sea dragons. Most seahorse species, probably the most peculiar creatures in the water, live in the Coral Triangle. There are at least 50 known seahorse species in the world. They inhabit temperate and tropical waters but most of them are concentrated in the warm coastal waters of the Philippines.

- Donsol, a fishing town in Sorsogon province, serves as a sanctuary to a group of 40 whale sharks (Rhincodon typus), which are considered as the largest fish in the world. Locally known as "butanding", whale sharks visit the waters of Donsol from November to May. They travel across the oceans but nowhere else have they been sighted in a larger group than in the waters of Sorsogon. They measure between 18 to 35 feet in length and weigh about 20 tons.

- The Philippines is home to some of the world's most exotic birds.
One of the most endangered species is the exotic Kalangay or the Philippine cockatoo (Cacatua haematuropygia), which belongs to Psittacidae or the family of parrots. Some cockatoos can live up to 50 years. They are known for mimicking human voices. Most of them measure 33 centimeters in length and weigh 0.29 kilogram.

- Palawan bearcat is neither a bear nor a cat. Known in Southeast Asia as binturong, the bearcat is a species of its own, with population in the forests of Palawan, Borneo, Burma and Vietnam. It belongs to the family of Viverridae (civets). The Palawan bearcat has a long body and a pointed face leading to the nose. Its head and body measure 61 to 96 centimeters in combined length while its tail is almost as long. It weighs 9 to 14 kilograms and lives up to 20 years.

- Calamian Deer - Calamian Islands, north of Palawan province, keep a species of deer that cannot be found elsewhere. Scientists referred to the hog deer in the islands as Calamian deer in order to distinguish them from other hog deer in the world. An ordinary Calamian deer measures 105 to 115 centimeters in length and 60 to 65 centimeters high at the shoulder and weighs about 36 to 50 kilograms. It is said to have longer and darker legs, compared with other hog deer.

- World's Smallest Hoofed Mammal - South of Palawan, lies the Balabac Island, home of the world's smallest hoofed mammal - the Philippine mouse deer. Locally known as Pilandok (Tragalus nigricans), this ruminant stands only about 40 centimeters at the shoulder level.

- Flying Lemur - One of the most distinct creatures on Earth lives in the Philippines. It doesn't have wings but it can glide across 100 meters of space in a single leap. Like the lemurs of Asia, it moves around at night. Its head resembles that of a dog while its body has similarities with the flying squirrel of Canada.
In Mindanao, people call it "kagwang". Around the world, it is known as colugo or the flying lemur.

- Did you know that the first four cities of Metropolitan Manila are: Manila, Quezon, Pasay and Caloocan

- The flagpole located in Rizal Park, is where the starts of 0 kilometer reading in measuring all distances from Manila.

- Quezon City is the second biggest city in the Philippines.

- The Bonifacio Monument in Monumento, Caloocan City was designed by a noted Filipino sculptor Guillermo Tolentino

- In 1916, in the Philippines, an offensive style of passing the ball in a high trajectory to be struck by another player (the set and spike) were introduced. The Filipinos developed the "bomba" or kill, and called the hitter a "bomberino". (source: http://volleyball.org/history.html)

- The PHILIPPINE EAGLE is the 2nd largest bird on the planet (next only to the American Condor)

WoW Philippines is also active in making programs to promote tourism. Some of which are very interesting for me since I’m a foreign to this country:

Remaining true to its objective of upholding and preserving the country’s natural reserves, the Department of Tourism (DOT) supported the launching of the Philippine Ecological Expo 2005 held last July 11-17 at the Expo Exchange, Greenbelt 1, Ayala Center, Makati City. This year’s event encompassed the theme: ”A Vision Towards Environmental Preservation” and was organized by 2nd Intervals Events and Productions

It is also promoting the PHILIPPINES ESL (English as a Second Language) TOUR PROGRAM.

ESL Tour Program is a tourist activity in which the study of English as a second language forms part of a structured tour package. The study of English becomes more exciting and fun through dynamic and creative ways of learning where participants get to interact, practice and use English more often in real-life settings thru games, outdoor activities, excursions and immersions. Aside from learning the English language, participants get to see the beautiful sceneries of the Philippine countryside and immerse with the local culture.

I realize that to promote local travel, Filipinos must inspire pride in being
Filipino by encouraging everyone to explore their country’s beautiful sites or re-connect with their heritage, history, and culture. Campaign theme tugs at the heart and at the same time is a challenge, an urgent call to positive action.

Movie Review: Crash

2008-04-16T20:41:00.000-07:00

Crash Summary:

Issues of race and gender cause a group of strangers in Los Angeles to physically and emotionally collide in this drama from director and screenwriter Paul Haggis. Graham (Don Cheadle) is a police detective whose brother is a street criminal, and it hurts him to know his mother cares more about his ne'er-do-well brother than him. Graham's partner is Ria (Jennifer Esposito), who is also his girlfriend, though she has begun to bristle at his emotional distance, as well as his occasional insensitivity over the fact he's African-American and she's Hispanic. Rick (Brendan Fraser) is an L.A. district attorney whose wife, Jean (Sandra Bullock), makes little secret of her fear and hatred of people unlike herself. Jean's worst imaginings about people of color are confirmed when her SUV is carjacked by two African-American men -- Anthony (Chris Bridges, aka Ludacris), who dislikes white people as much as Jean hates blacks, and Peter (Larenz Tate), who is more open minded. Cameron (Terrence Howard) is a well-to-do African-American television producer with a beautiful wife, Christine (Thandie Newton). While coming home from a party, Cameron and Christine are pulled over by Officer Ryan (Matt Dillon), who subjects them to a humiliating interrogation (and her to an inappropriate search) while his new partner, Officer Hansen (Ryan Phillippe), looks on. Daniel (Michael Pena) is a hard-working locksmith and dedicated father who discover that his looks don't lead many of his customers to trust him. And Farhad (Shaun Toub) is a Middle Eastern shopkeeper who is so constantly threatened in the wake of the 9/11 attacks that he decided he needs a gun to defend his family.

A meditation on the often unacknowledged undercurrents of racism in everyday American city life, "Crash" has the kind of broad appeal that can draw large audiences and the kind of lingering emotional potency that can lead to serious soul-searching. An impressive ensemble cast lends strong character to a cultural cross-section of Los Angeles denizens who are connected to each other through crime, corruption, obligation, indignation and chance over a two-day period. The most powerful storyline features Matt Dillon and Ryan Phillippe as beat cops -- one jaded and abusive, the other fresh and idealistic -- who pull over and harass (much to Phillippe's dismay) a black yuppie couple (Terrence Howard and Thandie Newton) because the SUV they're driving vaguely fits the description of a carjacked vehicle.

Within 24 hours, these characters all cross paths again in separate incidents of incredibly high tension that challenge both the prejudices that have formed between them and the conclusions we've been led to as an audience. Although they do not meet again, similarly potent table-turning and judgment-testing events occur in the lives of the actual carjackers (Larenz Tate and rapper Ludacris, whose character is ironically obsessed with being stereotyped) and their victims, an ambitious district attorney and his uptight wife (played with depth and conviction by Brendan Fraser and Sandra Bullock). These four are, in turn, connected through other events to a young Hispanic locksmith (Michael Pena) desperately trying to make a better life for his 5-year-old daughter after moving out of a crime-ridden neighborhood, and to a struggling Iranian shopkeeper (Shaun Toub) desperately seeking to lay blame for the vandalization of his convenience store, and to a pair of internal affairs detectives (Don Cheadle and Jennifer Esposito), whose lives and jobs are complicated by politics, tested principles and personal secrets.

The emotional complexity and intricate, intimate narrative of these stories defy simple summary, but suffice it to say writer lays bare many social and psychological issues that generally get swept under the rug of the American consciousness. The film doesn't just conjure up racially charged confrontations, but also shows almost subliminally how passive prejudice and pre-conceived notions are often prevalent in simple day-to-day life.

The multifaceted, uniformly compelling performances help personify these characters as emblematic and familiar while being anything but archetypal. "Crash" is not a film that will change the world or be permanently emblazoned on your mind. But it does get at the simple truths of racial discord in society.

There are so many messages in this powerful movie, but the main one that left out at me was the Sandra Bullock character's telling us that she's angry and feels that way all the time. The movie seems to be saying we are all so afraid and angry with each other and our inability to trust and care for one another across race, class and cultural divides. In LA 2005, one of the greatest cities ever created, we need to crash into one another to feel anything.

Despite playing a bit too much to tired stereotypes, the movies tries to delve deeply into the complexity and insanity of seeing the world and reacting to those in the world according to such myopic vistas.

I think the main message of the movie was embarrassment. Perhaps the comment of Terrence, "You embarrass me and you embarrass yourself" seems to be the main message.

The movie shows the key sociological concepts of accommodation wherein people should accept who they are in a social situation; though, you someone may belong to a minority or dominant group. So, minority members just accept dominant’s group values thinking that it is standard. This is acculturatation which leads to the process of assimilation – where people who belongs to minority group have to learn the day-to-day norms of a dominant group. People belong to different racial groups and most people judge people by their racial group. They also feel embarrass about the racial group they belong to. But, the movie shocked us the reality that sometimes we find people good, but doing the bad thing in the end and vice versa. Crash implies, the horrors of racism and racial stereotyping are themselves derivative of the undercurrent of desperation and compromised lives that runs through American culture generally, and won't go away unless and until something is done about that. That's even harder to face, harder to swallow. We can all profess to believe in and teach tolerance, but are we all willing, all doing what we can, to change a socio-cultural context that we may benefit from but that breeds desperation in many others, as well as the explosions of racism (and other things) that result from desperation.

Movie Review: My Big Fat Greek Wedding

2008-04-16T20:37:00.000-07:00

My Big Fat Greek Wedding Summary:

This is a story about Toula Portokalos, a 30 year old second generation Greek woman who is caught between being a Greek woman and wanting to be her own person. She is faced with the family pressure to marry a Greek boy, have Greek babies, and feed everyone. Toula decides that she wants more out of life and convinces her family that it would be in their best interest to support her going to College to study computing. Toula’s mum is supportive of the idea but her father is not to keen on the whole idea. Toula begins College where she blossoms; she changes her image and becomes a happier person. She starts to be the woman that she wants.

Toula falls in love with Ian who is not Greek. She initially lies to her parents, knowing that they would not approve of the relationship. When the relationship starts to become serious so does the situation at home as her family find out she is seeing Ian. Her father is devastated and cannot believe that she is doing this to him. She is told to stop seeing him, and her parents begin to invite a lot of single Greek men around for dinner. Toula continues to see Ian despite her parents' demands, but she can no longer hide the seriousness of the relationship from her family when Ian proposes to her and she accepts. Gus is still not happy about the situation, and Ian does everything he can to be accepted by her family. He is baptised in the Greek Church by cousin Nikki so they can be married in the Greek church. There is continuing concern expressed about Ian by Gus through out the movie as the wedding is planned, planned by everyone but Toula and Ian themselves.

The wedding day comes and everyone is happy. In the bride’s attempts to help her family come to terms with the situation, she learns about her culture and heritage.

The movie ends on a nice message when Gus gives his 'father of the bride' speech, finally giving his acceptance that we are all different but the same. This is a movie that relates to many people of many ethnic races. One reason why this movie was so popular was because you were looking at real people. The traditions that you see in this family could just as well be one of your own family. Its main purpose is not to insult Greek-Americans but to show America that there is more to America than the average white society. Everyone has different views and beliefs (no matter how extreme) and it is important for everyone to realize just how special it is to have a "mixed salad" society. The fact that Toula fell in love with an "average" white man is beautiful because it shows people that love is inevitable and overcomes all obstacles.

The movie presents a view of the world of traditional Greek culture, the loudness, the food, the guilt, the negativity, and the strong family values. It’s a romantic comedy rooted in the rich, gorgeous immigrant American culture, My Big Fat Greek Wedding considers the potentially woeful case of a frumpy, despondent 30-year-old woman who has been raised to marry a Greek man, produce Greek babies and feed everyone. The couple has to face the cultural and religious differences between their two families and convince Toula’s father that he should give his permission for them to marry. Mr. Portokalos begrudgingly gives his blessing and the meshing of the two families begins.

To me, this is a quintessentially American story of the fabled melting pot and how it works. But its story line of how two products of extremely different families fall in love and have a wedding, with all its attendant nerve-wracking pressures, is universal. You don’t have to marry a Greek-American (or even a Greek) to identify with the hair-raising rituals of meeting the prospective in-laws and working out a whole bunch of new relationships with virtual strangers. It shows cross-cultural marriage. The film, which is fairly cartoon-ish in its depiction of the Greek-American family as well as the bridegroom’s incredibly white-bread parents, is blessed with some deft casting. This movie is really, really funny. It teaches us that we are all equal despite ethnic backgrounds. It shows importance of family and the strength of family bonds; love; respect and tolerance of differences shown by Ian and Toula; acceptance of differences. Gus finally tells a story about apples and oranges at the end of the movie, showing that he accepts Ian into the family.

The movie shows the key sociological concepts of accommodation because the film portrays the need to overcome ethnic differences while not diminishing the beauty of ethnic tradition. Mr. Portokalos explains that “Miller” has its roots in the Greek word for apple and portokalos means orange in Greek. He notes that “apples” and “oranges” sound as if they cannot mix, but since they are really all “fruit,” the families should mix freely. In Toula’s case, she did not sacrifice her faith to marry Ian, who admitted to not having a strong religious background. But Ian’s case shows acculturation since the priest baptized Ian to bring him into the church and allow for Ian and Toula to be married in the Church. Therefore it can be concluded that Ian’s decision to be baptized can lead to showing key sociological concepts of assimilation because he will be with his wife everyday and will see how to be in a Greek Orthodox family and may do traditions or actions of his wife’s family.

This movie is absolutely hilarious. It portrays some true yet comical cultural dynamics that are true for many other European countries as well. What makes the movie so meaningful is Toula's journey against the forced stereotypes of society and to the fulfilment of her dreams and desires.

Salvation Is An Ongoing Event

2008-04-16T20:32:00.000-07:00

We are being saved because grace has not yet fully transformed every area of our mind, emotions, desires, and will into the mind, emotions, desires, and will of Christ. Salvation is a past reality: We have been saved by the death of Jesus Christ. While we were still sinners, Jesus’ death cancelled the bond that stood against us (Col. 2:14). In other words, the guilt of original sin has been wiped away. God pardoned our sins. But being pardoned isn’t the same as being holy. Being pardoned gives us back our freedom to choose the road to holiness, to walk the narrow path. Right now, today, we are being saved. Grace is wooing us down the narrow path. We are becoming holy. Salvation is an ongoing event. We are saved for union with Christ. Or, to put it in more poetic terms, we are saved so that the two may become one. In God’s mysterious and progressive plan, our nuptial salvation is completed only with the resurrection of the body. It is then that body and soul will return to perfect unity, and in this perfect unity, we will enter into perfect unity with the Trinity. The two will truly and definitively become one—body and soul, God and man, man and neighbour.

Peace and Justice

2008-04-16T20:31:00.000-07:00

Resolving a conflict, peace cannot be separated from justice. Without justice, there will be no peace. A truly free society must not include a "peace" which oppresses us. We must learn on our own terms what peace and freedom mean together. There can be no peace if there is social injustice and suppression of human rights, because external and internal peace is inseparable. Peace is not just the absence of mass destruction, but a positive internal and external condition in which people are free so that they can grow to their full potential.

The Social Teaching

2008-04-16T19:43:00.000-07:00

The mission of the Society today is the priestly service of the faith, an apostolate whose aim is to help people become more open toward God and more willing to live according to the demands of the Gospel. The Gospel demands a life freed from egoism and self-seeking, from all attempts to seek one's own advantage and from every form of exploitation of one's neighbor. It demands a life in which the justice of the Gospel shines out in a willingness not only to recognize and respect the rights of all, especially the poor and the powerless, but also to work actively to secure those rights. It demands an openness and generosity to anyone in need, even a stranger or an enemy.

In a global culture driven by excessive individualism, our tradition proclaims that the person is not only sacred but also social. How we organize our society—in economics and politics, in law and policy—directly affects human dignity and the capacity of individuals to grow in community. The family is the central social institution that must be supported and strengthened, not undermined. While our society often exalts individualism, the Catholic tradition teaches that human beings grow and achieve fulfilment in community. We believe people have a right and a duty to participate in society, seeking together the common good and well-being of all, especially the poor and vulnerable. Our Church teaches that the role of government and other institutions is to protect human life and human dignity and promote the common good. Then that’s when a community becomes a community of faith.

Dusit Loyalty Programs

2008-03-30T20:20:00.001-07:00

Dusit Gold Card Program

With a Dusit Gold Card, you are immediately recognized as one of our most valued guests, entitled to our Golden Privileges and Benefits. You will receive priority room reservation, special room rates, VIP recognition, welcome drink, complimentary fruit basket, express check-out, savings on laundry and restaurants, and guaranteed late check-out until 2 pm.

Whenever you travel for business or leisure, your Dusit Gold Card will ensure you benefits and privileges at Dusit Thani, dusitD2 and Dusit Princess Hotels & Resorts. Our collection of hotels & resorts will ensure the delivery of an experience that enlivens the individual spirit no matter what the journey.

Dusit Wine & Dine

As a Dusit Wine & Dine member, you will receive the most exciting and exclusive accommodation and dining privileges across the participating Dusit Thani, dusitD2 or Dusit Princess Hotels & Resorts in Thailand.

In addition to all the above mentioned benefits, is the best spa experience in Thailand at Devarana Spa, Dusit’s own signature heavenly spa for ultimate pampering, relaxation and rejuvenation.

Annual Membership Fee:	Baht 5,900
	Baht 5,500 for Dusit Gold Card holder

Presently, the membership is only offered to Thai residents.

Introducing The Global Hotel Alliance (GHA)

We are pleased to announce that Dusit International is a member of Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) to better serve you, our client. All GHA partners share the same philosophy of high quality service as we do. GHA now consists of 160 upscale and luxury hotels and resorts, spread over 41 countries and growing. Each brand is a key player in their main region: Anantara in Thailand; Cham in Syria and Jordan; Dusit International in Thailand; Kempinski in Europe; Landis in Taiwan & China; Leela in India; Marco Polo in China and Hong Kong; Omni in North America and Pan Pacific in the Pacific Rim.

Global Hotel Alliance was created in 2004 and is the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel groups. Global Hotel Alliance is about offering greater choice and enhanced recognition to customers in a growing collection of hotels, managed by individual, regional brands, which are respected in their home markets for reflecting and respecting local traditions and culture through their hotels’ products and services.

Regular travelers know how challenging navigating the world can be and how choosing the right hotel can be the difference between an average and a sensational trip! Choosing a Global Hotel Alliance hotel means travelers can be sure that they will have a unique, local experience in an excellent four or five-star hotels, while receiving consistent levels of service and recognition, regardless of their choice of hotel or destination.

A unique Global Hotel Alliance logo makes it easy for customer to recognize member brands and hotels all over the world, so keep a look out for the red “G” as a indication that you’re making the right choice of hotel.

Dusit Gold Card Members are entitled to receive member benefits of the participating Global Hotel Alliance hotel’s program they are visiting.

In addition, as GHA expands its network of member hotels, Dusit Gold Card Members will have even more destinations to experience the special benefits offered by member hotels.

Shangri-la Hotels and Resorts Loyalty Program

2008-03-30T20:16:00.000-07:00

Guest Loyalty Program

Golden Circle

Golden Circle is Shangri-La's guest recognition program. Golden Circle is a recognition program for guests who choose to come back here again and again in their travels. Unlike other loyalty program, Golden Circle does not offer points, rather, it provides recognition to guests whenever they stay at the Shangri-La hotels. Members enjoy their choice of amenities, priority check-in and check-out, partner stays free in the same room including free breakfast etc. There are three levels of membership - Classic, Executive and Elite.

Travel Partners benefit

Hertz Car Rental

Enjoy car rentals at approximately 7,800 locations in 145 countries worldwide with Hertz, the world's leading car rental company. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, you can be assured of quality cars and a wide range of services that make Hertz your first choice of car rental.

Special offers

Enjoy 10% off Affordable Rates at participating locations worldwide.

In addition, you will enjoy a Free One Car Class Upgrade when you rent for 6 days or more in USA, Canada, Europe*, Australia and New Zealand; 4 days or more in Asia^.

Group-Wide Offers

Value Rates

We've put together the benefits our guests enjoy most into one simple rate. With Value Rates, you'll receive premium services that help you stay in touch, be productive and feel relaxed, without the inconvenience of extra charges.

This rate includes:

Late checkout at 6pm
Free Internet access, broadband where available
Complimentary breakfast
Free airport limousine transfers
Unlimited laundry and dry cleaning
IDD calls and faxes at cost, and free local calls
A minimum 2-night stay is required.

Value Vacations Offer

With free meals for kids, unlimited laundry, credits toward recreational facilities, and much more, Value Vacations is the worry-free way to enjoy your holiday.

This rate includes:

Late checkout at 3pm
Complimentary breakfast
Complimentary buffet dinner
Free buffet meals for children under 12
USD 20 credit for recreational facilities
Free use of water sports facilities (non-motorized)
Unlimited laundry
Free Internet access, broadband where available
A minimum 2-night stay is required

Traders Smart Deals Offer

Smart travelers know that value means getting more for your money. When you book a Traders Smart Deal, you'll enjoy helpful extra benefits in one convenient rate.

This rate includes:

Late checkout at 3pm
Complimentary breakfast
Extra privileges unique to your hotel
A minimum 2-night stay is required

Weekend Rates Offer

Take advantage of weekend savings at some of our most popular deluxe hotels. To check availability for travel dates and view offer details, please visit the Rates & Reservations page for that hotel or resort.

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila Loyalty Program

2008-03-30T20:15:00.000-07:00

The Sofitel Privilege Loyalty Card

The Sofitel Privilege Card is free and gives our regular customers access to a whole range of services and benefits.

For our most loyal customers, there are even more advantages.

The little extras that make a world of difference.

Every time you stay at a Sofitel hotel you will earn Compliments Points
Every €10 spent = 80 Compliments Points

They are converted into Compliments Vouchers
20,000 Points = €200 in Compliments Vouchers

Advantages of the Sofitel Privilege Car

Welcome cocktail and gift upon arrival
Late check-out at 4 pm
Double room for the price of a single room
Free access to the gym
Reduced rates with Europcar
Access to the benefits of other reward programs: American Express Membership Rewards, Delta Air Lines SkyMiles and American Airlines AAdvantage

Advantages of the Sofitel Gold Privilege Card*

In addition to the benefits listed above, our most loyal customers will enjoy:

Room Upgrade (depending on availability)
Reservation guaranteed up to 3 days prior to arrival
Check-in before noon
Guarantee that the room will be held regardless of arrival time
Even greater reductions with Europcar

*For every €6,000 or 14 stays spent per year

And for every stay at a Sofitel hotel, you earn Compliments Points on your card.
For every 10 you spend, you earn 80 Compliments Points.

As soon as you have 20,000 Compliments Points® in your account, you may convert them into Compliments Vouchers® worth €200 to pay for some or all of your next stay at 190 Sofitel hotels and more than 2,500 Accor hotels throughout the world.
See details on converting your points under the heading “Rewards”.

As long as your card remains valid, your points can be used for a period of up to 3 years (current year + 2 years). When your card expires, they will remain valid for 6 additional months. Compliments Points cannot be earned in combination with other loyalty programs (e.g.: airline companies, etc.).

Furthermore, Sofitel Privilège cardholders are also members of the SkyMiles® loyalty program of Delta Airlines or AAdvantage® of American Airlines and can convert their Compliments Points into frequent flyer miles.
Similarly, members of the American Express Membership Rewards loyalty program can convert their Membership Rewards Points into Compliments Points.

Hyatt Loyalty Programs

2008-03-30T20:12:00.000-07:00

As a Hyatt Gold Passport member, you have the choice of earning Hyatt Gold Passport points or miles* every time you stay at any Hyatt, Hyatt Place, Hyatt Summerfield Suites, and our Hotel Partners, including AmeriSuites or Hawthorn Suites.

Earning at Hyatt
Learn how you can earn Hyatt Gold Passport points or miles with every stay and through exclusive offers.
Whether traveling for business or pleasure, your stays with Hyatt, including our newest Hyatt brands Hyatt Place and Hyatt Summerfield Suites, are always rewarding as a Hyatt Gold Passport member.

Earning at Hotel Partners
Discover more ways to earn at our Hyatt Gold Passport Hotel Partners including, AmeriSuites and Hawthorn Suites.

With our Hotel Partners, AmeriSuites and Hawthorn Suites, Hyatt Gold Passport members have more places to earn and redeem free nights.

AmeriSuites: AmeriSuites offers guests an attractive suite with upscale amenities, including complimentary hot breakfast, in-room refrigerator and microwave, free high-speed Internet access and more.

Hawthorn Suites: Hawthorn Suites offers all-suite hotels, perfect for long stays as well as weekend getaways. Trademark features include a complimentary hot breakfast buffet, evening social hour, in-room kitchen and free high-speed Internet access.

Earning at Car Partners
Earn Hyatt Gold Passport points at our Car Partners including, Avis® and Sixt Rent-A-Car

Avis

Earn 300 bonus points for each qualifying rental at participating Avis® locations worldwide. A Hyatt stay is not required, simply request Hyatt Gold Passport points at the rental counter.

As a Gold Passport member, you can save up to 20% on car rentals worldwide with Avis. Visit avis.com and provide the Hyatt Gold Passport/Avis Worldwide Discount number K817700 when making your reservation.

Terms & Conditions
Valid at participating Avis airport locations worldwide. Hotel stay is not required to earn points. Members must provide their Hyatt Gold Passport membership number at time of rental. Points may not be earned on free, tour or certain travel industry rates and may only be earned in one frequent traveler program per rental.

Sixt

Earn 300 bonus points for each qualifying rental at participating Sixt locations. A Hyatt stay is not required, simply request Hyatt Gold Passport points at the rental counter.

Hyatt Gold Passport members can receive a discount of up to 35% at more than 3,500 Sixt Rent-A-Car locations in 85 countries. Hyatt Gold Passport Gold members receive a 15% discount, Platinum members receive a 25% discount, and Diamond members receive a 35% discount. Discount is valid on all eligible rental rates. Internet rates are not eligible.

Call +49 (0) 1805 25 25 25 to book your rental. To receive your discount, be sure to show your Hyatt Gold Passport membership card when you pick up your vehicle. For more information on Sixt car rentals, visit e-sixt.com.

Marriott Hotels and Resorts Loyalty Program

2008-03-30T19:48:00.000-07:00

Marriott Hotels and Resorts Loyalty Program

You've earned more than points. You've earned better living on the road. As a member, you'll receive the recognition you deserve at more than 2,700 hotels worldwide, plus free nights, free flights and many other benefits, including:

Priority check-in
A newsletter, including member-only specials
Bonuses and base points earned at all Marriott hotel brands

Achieve it all faster: become a Silver level member after just 10 nights in one calendar year.

Plan an Event at Marriott and Leave the Details to Us

As a Marriott Rewards member, you’ve earned the right to expect a helping hand. And that’s exactly what you’ll get when you schedule your meeting or event at Marriott. That includes expert advice and assistance from Certified Meeting Professionals, Marriott Certified Wedding Planners, and Redcoat Event Service Managers.

You’ll Even Get a Bonus

For each qualified event you schedule at Marriott, receive up to:

50,000 Marriott Rewards points or
15,000 airlines miles

Simply plan your next meeting or event at any Marriott, JW Marriott, Renaissance, Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield Inn by Marriott, SpringHill Suites by Marriott or Marriott Vacation Club

International location worldwide.

Get Extra Bonuses

· Achieve Marriott Rewards Elite status when you host 2 or more meetings

· Earn double Marriott Rewards points by choosing Group Value Dates

· Redeem Marriott Rewards points for Meeting credit certificates

Safe and Security

2008-03-30T19:45:00.000-07:00

Safety and security are two important things to carry in mind all the time. I realized that it is really not easy to operate any businesses especially if it is a restaurant, a store or even a hotel. As an owner of any kinds of businesses, one should know to make their properties safe and secured. I have watched a lot of movie about crime risk in a restaurant or store. Some of them was able to handle the situation well, but some didn’t. Sometimes, we see suspicious people, but we have to make sure about our suspicions before making actions. Some people might look defferent, but it doesn’t mean they will do something bad. This idea also applies for myself. I do not want people to have suspicion over me. Sometimes I see people monitoring me inside the store. Though it makes me feel uncomfortable, I just think that they are just doing their job. It’s fine with me as long as they don’t cause me any trouble. And employees should know how to approach customers in a calm and professional way. Therefore, the store has to be very sure before judging customers. Most stores have developed a standard menu of security hardware and equipment. These include video surveillance systems, alarm systems, time-delay safes, fortified drive-thru windows, and robbery prevention training for the entire staff. These are very important to all establishments especially the training of the entire staff. All equipments are to be handled by employees, so they play a very important part. Hiring, training, and supervision of workers can affect the crime risk. Background screening is very important, especially at the management level, to avoid hiring serious felons or dishonest employees. I have heard many news about locations with horrendous criminal incidents that could be traced back to dishonest employees. So these employess or staff should be trained well. Establishments should develop a security plan tailored to meet the specific needs of a property and the conditions under which it operates. It also includes, handling medical issues like injuries or initial emergency care. And at the end of the day, there should be a clean and accurate filing report of all the situations happened and monitored. This report will help the management study and give solution to important matters concerning safe and security. I believe that different situations need different solutions. Therefore, the management should do assessment from time to time to determine if the solutions offered will be adequate, under the circumstances.

Goal

2008-03-29T19:39:00.000-07:00

Everybody wants to be succesful. And it s very Important to have ambition from the start. I believe that everyhting starts with having an ambition in life. From there, goal is set. There are a lot of personalities that has been a great gave inspiration to a lot of people including me. These are people we should look up to. I admire them for being determined and goal-centered. They know what they want and they do something to get it. They plan and do specific actions in order to reach their goals. I realize that even though everbody wants to be succesful, just a few really succeed. It is because not all set goals or atlest some do not do everything they can to reach their goals. Nothing is easy. One should really work hard in order to get what he or she wants. There should be a vision, plans and actions. It is easier to have visions and make plans, but it is hard to make it happen if there is no any actions. I believe, putting goals and plans into writing is a big help. Our goals, missions and plans should be written and should have specific dates on when it should be accomplished. Time , as always, is very important. We should have time frame and stick with it. We can read it every week or month or even everyday if we want to check if we are still on the plan. We must try to accomplish what should be done within the time frame that we set. The result is in the end. There should be determination, discipline and proper management. I have goals and plans for my future. I have my own ability and I should use it to the maximum level. I should not waste time for I can never have it back. As of now, I am still considered a shy person, but I realized that I should be more confident about myself in order to gain people’s approval. First and foremost, I should believe in myself before everybody does. Just like the other rich people we know, I should tell myself that I can do even more and show people that I can do something better and be succesful. Rich people are trusted people and the first person that trusts him or her is no other than his or her own.

Fitrum

2008-03-29T19:22:00.000-07:00

I have been taking up Fitrum since last week. It is a little expensive for its 365-peso price. It has to be taken 3 times a day and 1 box only contains 30 capsules. At first, i did take it 3 times a day, but now i am only taking 1 to 2 capsules a day. I guess, it's just enough for me. And I can say that it has a good effect on my body. I felt more healthier (not that i gain weight) because my VM has become regular. I guess, you got what i mean..:P

But be reminded that it should be taken before 4pm. It is written in the instruction paper found inside the box. Once, I took it in the evening and i wasn't able to sleep enough. I couldn't sleep right away as if I was thingking of many things. So, better not try it.hehe..

Overall, it has a good effect as long as it is taken properly. I recommend this supplement. They say that it's good for the heart and bad for the fat. I believe so...

I am Proud of my Son

2008-03-29T19:16:00.001-07:00

My eldest son- Rafael Christian Sanchez- got the 2nd honor, best in math and best in science excellence. We're so proud of him. He did not take nursery and this was his first time in school. He can actually do it on top, but the teacher told me that he's too active for that. All of them got special awards and he got the most energetic and most cooperative awards. While the 1st honor got the most behave and most kind awards. Hmmmm, that explains everything. hahaha!

Well, I guess I will always be proud of him. I will always be at his side and support what he wants to become in life. He's a special gift from God that I will always cherish in my whole life!

Love: How Do You Feel

2008-03-27T01:31:00.000-07:00

How do you feel when someone who supposed to take care of you, wounded you the most?
How do you feel when you've tried everything to please someone and all you do is cry after all?
How do you feel when you fight for someone but never did the same thing to you?

They said:

Love is long suffering,
love is kind,
it is not jealous,
love does not boast,
it is not inflated.

It is not discourteous,
it is not selfish,
it is not irritable,
it does not enumerate the evil.
It does not rejoice over the wrong, but rejoices in the truth

It covers all things,
it has faith for all things,
it hopes in all things,
it endures in all things.

I wish I am perfect so I can love like this and never will I expect even a little in return.
I wish I don't have feelings anymore, so I can no longer feel pain & just do what i'm obliged to do
I wish I could experience love and not just know it by name....

I am still thankful because I have my life
Though it is not easy, atleast i have God
To whom I can be loved no matter what
And will always be important in his heart...

Unknown Filipino Heroes

2008-03-23T18:17:00.000-07:00

Here are some Filipino Heroes who are not so famous:

FEDERICO ISABELO ABAYA

He was a member of the Espiritu de Candon, a revolutionary group in Candon, Ilocos Sur.

On March 25, 1998, he led the so called Cry of Candon and drove away the Spaniards from the town. (He then declared the free Republic of Candon.)

He later served in the Philippine Revolutionary Army under Col. Manuel Tinio. He recruited Igorots and led his recruits in the Battle of Caloocan in February, 1899, at the start of the Filipino-American War.

He then became guerilla commander of forces in southern Ilocos under Col. Juan Villamor, where he was later killed by the Americans.

Date of Birth: 1854
Place of Birth: Candon. Ilocos Sur
Date of Death: May 3, 1900

Values Exhibited:
Nationalism
Leadership

VALENTIN DIAZ

He joined the La Liga Filipina residing in Tondo, Maynila. They founded the Katipunan together with former Liga members led by Andres Bonifacio.

He was one of the signatories of the PAct of Biak-na-Bato in 1897. He joined the revolutionaries exiled in Hongkong as one of the conditions set forth by the Pact.

Date of Birth: November 1, 1845
Place of Birth: Paoay, Ilocos Norte
Date of Death: 1916

Values Exhibited:
Unity
Courage
Love of Country

LEONA FLORENTINO

An Ilocano poet in Spanish who gained international recognition when her works were exhibited at the Exposicion General de Filipina sheld in Madrid in 1887 and at the International Exposition in Paris in 1889.

Her works helped Elevate the social and intellectual status of women in the Philippines.

Date of Birth: April 19, 1849
Place of Birth: Vigan, Ilocus Sur
Date of Death: October 4, 1884

Values Exhibited:
Patriotism
Determination

Globalization

2008-03-23T18:15:00.000-07:00

I have never put so much attention about globalization before. But i suddenly recognized it after doing my student's homework. It is like being friendly to other people or economies. I believe that this kind of relationship is very important because it does not only increase opportunity, but it can also increase competition. And when there is competition, the economy will surely do its best in order to progress. The country’s future will be greatly impacted by globalization. This will occur on economic, environmental, community diversity, and overall quality of life. Therefore, the agencies of the government should take necessary actions in order to capture the positive benefits of globalization. The role of local government is to be a convener and educator. I realized that there are many citizens like me who do not know anything or have basic knowledge about globalization. And it is the government duty to let people fully understand it. I have realized that government and its agencies play a very important role in order to have better changes. Government will provide leadership and will enter partnerships to meet specific goals associated with being a globally competitive community. We should look at globalization in a positive way because though this we will have a more quality standard of living. Employers will be more responsible to their employees. Constitution will seek social justice and human rights. Everybody will have better quality life. This will require exceptional leadership and skill on the part of local government. I want to believe that here will be much higher probability of advancing the quality of life of each citizen. I want to look at this in a positive and productive aspect of an economy.

Makati Shangri-la Hotel

2008-03-23T18:12:00.000-07:00

Makati Shangrila Hotel is one of the best hotels I have ever visited. The place is considered as one of the five star hotels and I believe so. The Makati Shangri-La has a variety of food and beverage outlets that include Conways Bar, a beautifully decorated Chinese restaurant that offers Cantonese cuisine, a small Thai restaurant, a fine dining French restaurant (appetizers average out at an average price of 500 or so Pesos), and a very nice Japanese restaurant. The place has a nice working area, ergonomically designed working chair, nice curved lines that add a lot of space and a very relaxed feel to the room. The interior designs are beautiful and unique in its own way. It brings comfortable and nice atmosphere. The lobby has a simple beauty but would be able to distinguish form the others. I believe that the interior is well-maintained. The interior is not that colorful and bright, but its is good enough for family vacation. The lightnings and designs look very classy. I also think that its interior design is much modern in terms of facilities. They use a lot of glasses that made their interior look clean, spacious and so classy. In terms of exterior, it still looks good and nice, but I think it would be better if it will have some facelifting. It is strikingly contemporary but needs renovation I think. Overall, It is truly a five star hotel that deserves appreciation.

My Top 5 Favorite Perfumes for Women

2008-03-23T17:22:00.000-07:00

I like branded perfumes not because they are famous, but because i know for a fact that their notes were studied and researched thoroughly. It's not just about the smell in the bottle, but how it would react on one's body chemistry. Unfortunately, these are expensive but i guess worth enough. These fragrances would make you feel more confident about yourself. When you smell good, you feel good! Moreover, if it stays on you for a long time. :D

Here is my list:

1. Burberry classic for women (EDP) - Sadly, it is hard to find nowadays. Launched in 1996, it has a fresh and clean scent with an ephemeral harmony somewhere between sparkle and calm.

Notes:
Black currant, green apple, peach, jasmine, sandalwood, cedar, vanilla.

2. Bvlgari omnia crystalline (EDT) - A little more expensive than other branded perfumes. launched in 2003, it has sparkling jewel of light, illuminating and reflecting the gentle sensuality and luminous femininity of the woman.

Notes:
Bamboo, nashi, lotus blossom and balsa wood.

3. Burberry london for women (EDP) - Launched in 2006, it has a sweet fragrance that brings out confidence and independence. It says that it embodies the elegant, yet modern spirit of london lifestyle.

Notes:
Clementine, honeysuckle, english garden rose, tiare flower, jasmine, peony, veil of musks, indian sandalwood, patchouli.

4. Versace for woman (EDP)- Launched in 2000, it has a light and feminine scent. It is classified as a sharp fragrance , but i still consider it feminine and for casual wear.

Notes:
Rangipani blossoms, leaves, jasmine, bergamot, eglantine, padparadscha lotus, plum, raspberry, amber.

5. Ralph Laured cool pink (EDT) - Launched in 2004, it has an elegant but stronger than the other perfumes i have mentioned (atleast in my opinion). So, i guess this one brings out the active, sporty, adventorous, energetic side of us.

Notes:
Kiwi, iced nectarine, watermelon, cucumber peel, linden blossom, honeysuckle, jasmine, lily of the valley, musk, vetiver, sensual woods.

I find these sites useful and informative:

www.burberry.com
www.perfume.com
www.sephora.com

Burberry Classic Eau de Parfum

2008-03-16T22:30:00.000-07:00

I really love the scent of Burberry classic. And i have found out that it is already phased-out in the market here. I have searched everywhere even in the internet and no one here is selling it anymore.

To know more about this product:

Burberry Classic
Since its launch in 1996, Burberry Classic has become a classic. Fresh and clean, with an ephemeral harmony somewhere between sparkle and calm. In ivory packaging lined with the Burberry plaid, the bottle is a contemporary pebble-shaped design.

Notes:
Black Currant, Green Apple, Peach, Jasmine, Sandalwood, Cedar, Vanilla.

Style:
A clean and sensual fragrance.

This site still offers this product:

http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P0842&categoryId=C14093

Last weekend SM Makati had its 3-day sale. I went to perfume area and the burberry saleman confirmed that it is phased-out here and will soon be in other countries. I smelled the other burberry scents and I found out that burberry london also smells good. That would be my next option!!:D

At an Early Age Part II

2008-03-12T02:53:00.001-07:00

Have you read about the part I I made? It is about my son playing and even winning in the game known as "Starcraft". And now, just after a month of being hooked on playing that, he likes playing "Warcraft" better. His father introduced to him this new game and my son likes it more because it is more complicated. Can you believe that? At an early age, he prefers playing games which requires more thinking and strategy needed. He plays it everyday( well after studying and doing homeworks of course). He practiced a lot so he could win a lot of battles. I really admire my son!! He is sooo amazing at this early age!!

Here I am Again!!!

2008-03-12T02:31:00.000-07:00

Surely, my husband wouldn't like this idea!!! After being hooked on looking and searching for signature bags, I suddenly fancy perfumes. Actually it's not just about perfumes, but about feeling and smelling good. I now fancy scented lotions, scented body gel and even scented shampoo which i don't really care about before. This "weirdness" i am experiencing now started when my husband's officemate sold to him her Burberry classic perfume. It's supposed to be hers, but she didn't like the smell and thought that it's for men. We found out from the internet, www.burberry.com, that it is indeed for women. And I actually like it! I think it will be my all-time-favorite perfume. Sadly, it seems hard to find here in the Philippines. I have searched from almost all sites selling in the Philippines and not a single one offer or sell this kind of perfume. They have the other burberry scent like London, Brit and Baby touch, but not this classic one. Anyway, I just hope that i'll be able to find one before it's gone or atleast my husband would give me one(hmmmm.....). Obviously, I recommend Burberry classic for women. Check this out if you have a chance. And please, contact me if you have found one..hahaha!!

Coldest March

2008-03-07T17:53:00.000-08:00

Ooops! DOn't get me wrong. I actually mean "coldest march" literally! Don't you think so? This is the coldest march I have ever experienced in my entire life! The month of March usually makes us sweat. But now, it's unbelievably freezing cold. Well, yeah it's a little exage. But, lenten season is coming and the weather is still cold. We don't even use electric fan at home and we have to wear sweaters or jackets when we go out. Fortunately, it saves aur electricity a lot. Huh! That's a big help for us. Though summer is an exciting season for almost everybody, I am liking this kind of weather. Anyway I know that summer will inevitably coming soon, so I better enjoy this feeling of coldness (and feeling of savings as well,hahaha) for the meantime.....

Anti Smoking Ordinance

2008-03-07T00:17:00.000-08:00

Section 10, Rule III of City Ordinance No. 2002-090, or the Revised Anti-Smoking Ordinance of Makati, mandates the inclusion of compliance to the ordinance as an “additional requirement on the Sanitation Standards of the City Health Department.”

In Makati, and elsewhere, people are prohibited from smoking while in the premises of whatever bar, restaurant, pub or any watering hole people go to consume volumes and volumes of alcoholic drinks and spirits.

Commercial and business establishments in Makati, especially those engaged in food service, do not only face closure and revocation of business permit, but shall also be given failing marks on sanitation by the Makati Health Department (MHD) if found violating any provision of the anti-smoking ordinance.

Aside from designated smoking areas that conform to the standards set by the ordinance, establishments are also required to post “no-smoking” and “smoking area” signs in corresponding areas. Establishments without MHD-authorized smoking areas are automatically considered as “totally non-smoking areas,” and thus cannot allow smoking in any section or provide ashtrays and other smoking paraphernalia to customers.

Meanwhile, those with existing smoking areas should refrain from allowing these to be used by smoking patrons, management or staff until they have secured the necessary permit from the MHD. Otherwise, they will be meted the corresponding penalties, including being tagged as “unsanitary” by city health officials.

My Points of View:

People know that smoking is not only dangerous for the body, but could also be dangerous in the environment. It could cause not only bad health but accidents as well. A person who smokes should be responsible enough and this ordinance will help people become more disciplined in smoking. People will be more aware of their actions because there is punishment for every violation. This endorsement is an opportunity to be of help in safeguarding and promoting public health. People will be fully aware of the harmful and injurious effects of cigarette smoke to the well-being of the public. This shows manifestations of sincere commitment to uphold and protect the health of the public. It is promoting the Philippines as a smoker’s haven by harping on the impact of these restrictive ordinances on the tourism and hospitality industry. This ordinance is also a new opportunity to present the Philippines as a family destination where tourists can breathe tobacco-free air.

About Me

2008-03-02T21:23:00.000-08:00

I will not die an unlived life.
I will not live in fear.
I choose to inhabit my days,
to allow my living to open me,
to make me less afraid,
more accessible,
to loosen my heart
until it becomes a wing,
a torch, a promise.
I choose to risk my significance,
to live so that which came to me as seed
goes to the next as blossom,
and that which came to me as blossom,
goes on as fruit.

I trust God. He is my provider. Why should I fear?

Liquid Diet

2008-02-28T19:29:00.000-08:00

A liquid diet incorporates either partial meal replacement or all fluid consumption, which may be in the form of teas and juices. Most liquid diets may not be suitable for long-term or excessive weight loss. They are, however, of benefit for certain types of procedures—both pre- and post-op—plus they are a type of regimen that is desired following bariatric surgeries.

A liquid diet may not provide the needed nutrients to maintain adequate energy levels in most individuals. Short-term weight loss can be achieved, but when liquids such as protein shakes are eventually eliminated from the diet, pounds tend to be regained. Those who embark on a juice fast—also categorized as a form of liquid dieting—may find it less than satisfactory. The lack of proteins and fiber is also at issue with many physicians. In most cases, the replacement of food with fluids, even if medically supervised, simply will not be practical in the long term for those who need to lose only a minimal amount of weight. Some individuals believe that fluids will cleanse the system of impurities, including those that have built up in the liver. These beliefs are generally refuted, with the caveat that the elimination of most processed foods is always beneficial. The concern lies mainly with a fanatical approach to a liquid diet in which one ignores the essential vitamins, proteins, fibers, and other required sources for optimum health. Ultimately, nutrition and resistance to disease will suffer in the effort to achieve a more defined physique. Incorporating a liquid meal replacement can be an acceptable way to reduce a limited amount of weight, but should be used in conjunction with regular meals. Without portion control, these diets may fail as well. A general consensus, however, is that this type of approach will not teach individuals the necessary requirements of healthy eating to maintain the weight loss. Liquid diets can be safe and effective, but they're not for everyone. The most common side effect is postural hypotension--the dizziness you feel when you stand up too quickly. But this can be corrected by drinking more fluids. Patients also report constipation, frequent urination, dry skin, hair loss and intolerance to cold. Not surprisingly, during the first few days of the diet, many participants complain of hunger, but those pangs gradually subside. These diets, however, may be a boon to people with medical problems such as hypertension, diabetes or back pain--ailments that may be caused by obesity. In one study, 95 percent of hypertensive patients showed a decrease in blood pressure after one month on a liquid diet.

Advantages of having a Liquid Diet

Liquid diet is not only favorable but also nutritionally balanced. It’s hard to ignore your favorite food but what you need to do in this type of diet is to just open the lid of your bottle and add milk in to glass. And if you are going to have shakes then you should know of its sweetness and taste of different flavors, which will make this diet east for you.

Pre- and post-op are the certain type of procedures, benefited by liquid diet. Pre-operative diets a kind of liquid diet in which liquid flushes all the bowels while decreasing fagging on digestive system. You will be given a detailed leaflet by your doctor, explaining how to have this diet and for how long you should be having it.

If following bariatric surgeries, liquid diets are use and patient might have to follow a fluid-only diet for at least 10 days

Very often, immoderate cases of obesity are handled by the help of liquid diet because of the reason that, it is successful and effective. If following a Liquid diet, it is really important to have a physician for check up and to know the side-effects, as it is not recommended forever weight loss.

Disadvantages of having a Liquid Diet

These types of diets are kind of unsafe if does not supervised and advised by doctor, due to having low calories, fiber and lacking of important nutrition which can be only founding vegetables and whole grains. The liquid diet should only be for a specific time.

Studies have shown that, there is no limit of time in which weight can be lost if following a low calorie liquid diet and within three years, dieters can regain about 75% of weight lost.

The biggest problem is about eating habits. This diet can help you losing weight in a short amount of time but can’t help you to maintain long-term weight loss.

Liquid diets, if followed by you, without consulting anyone can be a bit risky. Because of the reason that, if your body will be having less nutrients, minerals and many other important things, your system will not work properly and you will be having problems like brittle nails, constipation, sensitivity to cold, and heart problems.

Korean And Filipino Culture

2008-02-28T19:24:00.000-08:00

I have been teaching Koreans for more than 3 years and i have come to compare the two culture..

Korean culture like Filipino culture has been influenced by interaction with other cultures, technology and the natural instinct of self-preservation. Both Koreans and Filipinos made martial arts as essential part of their societies. In Korea, Martial arts have existed in Korea since the earliest ages. During the Goguryeo Dynasty, it is believed that subak (a general term for barehanded martial arts imported from China [pronounced Shoubo]), swordsmanship, spear-fighting, and horse riding were practiced. On the other hand, there are hundreds of unique styles of the Filipino martial arts throughout the Philippines. Regardless of the controversies behind the origins of systems and the various styles of Filipino martial arts, it remains that the "Arnis", "Kali" and "Escrima" are the most commonly used names for the indigenous Philippine Martial Arts.

Like all agricultural societies including the Philippines, Korean life has always centered on tightly knit families. Since the start of this culture the most important thing has always been the family. But, in Korea large families have been prized and over many centuries families intermarried within the regions of Korea to form large clans. Family names reflect this. A dozen family names predominate, especially Kim, Park, Lee, Kang, and Cho. But Kims from the city of Pusan in the south are not the Kims from Seoul and all the Kims know exactly which group they belong to. Same as in the Filipinos, custom forbids people marrying within their own clan, no matter how distant the cousin might be. In order to know who is who, families and clan keep detailed genealogical records that might go back many hundreds of years. Even in today's westernized Korea many people can still recite the glorious history of their clans and take pride in them.

Both in Korea and in Philippines, most things are done with the families’ permission. But in Korea, the eldest in the house is considered the wisest, and therefore makes most of the decisions. This tradition was started years ago, and is still being used today. Every relative in the family that is of the same blood is referred to as ilga. This means one house. Another term that is continually heard is tongjok. This is the group of paternal relatives. These relatives are very tight knit groups that, in many cases, live together in one home. Only paternal relatives can be in the tongjok. Maternal relatives can never join this group. The tongjok is mainly controlled with the property of the head family. In other words, the oldest living relatives take care of this group. Officials are appointed, and the family has a type of small government running the show. These officials hold special meetings where they discuss things ranging from ancestral rights to repair of graves. The final decisions of these meetings are made by the oldest living male. This leader takes care of things like funeral planning, festivals, graveside rituals, and helps with daily life.

Another thing is that in Korea, the wives do not follow their husbands’ family name but in Philippines, the wives change their surnames and follow their husbands’.

Vodka

2008-02-28T19:22:00.000-08:00

What is Vodka?

Vodka is a distilled spirit with a high alcohol content that can be produced from a number of different materials and possesses different characteristics depending on the creator. Most vodka produced these days is made from a grain, though some is still made from potatoes.

History of Vodka

The process of distillation was kept secret for a long time. The first description of a distilling apparatus comes from the 13th century. The device was later described by a university professor in his treatise about wine. To produce beverages containing 60% alcohol with the device, the distillation process had to be repeated several times. The general knowledge about distillation was being slowly developed until 1800, when Edward Adam invented the process of rectification which removed its "bad taste". Further changes were made in 1817 by Johannes Pistorius, a German brewer, who built the first machine which could produce a beverage containing 85% alcohol in just one distillation. In Ireland in 1830 an apparatus was designed that could work continuously and allowed for production of beverage containing almost 90% alcohol. A similar rectification machine, but working periodically, was for the first time used in 1852 in a brewery in Saint Denis by Pierre Savalle.

Kinds of Vodka

There are two basic kinds of Vodka: Clear vodka and flavored vodka. Most flavored vodka contains 30-35% alcohol, whereas clear vodka is normally 40%, with a few brands offering a 50% product on top. Some types of vodka have plants or herbs added to the unflavored vodka to make it taste better.

How to produce?

Vodka may be distilled from any starch/sugar-rich plant matter; most vodka today is produced from grains such as sorghum, corn, rye or wheat. Among grain vodkas, rye and wheat vodkas are generally considered superior. Some vodka is made from potatoes, molasses, soybeans, grapes, sugar beets and sometimes even byproducts of oil refining or wood pulp processing. In some Central European countries like Poland some vodka is produced by just fermenting a solution of crystal sugar and yeast. In the European Union talks about the standardization of vodka the Vodka Belt countries insist that only spirits produced from grains, potato and sugar beet molasses must be allowed to be branded as "vodka", following the traditional methods of production.

How to store?

Hard liquors such as Vodka are "finished products", which means that, once it is distilled, aged, and bottled, it is done, and its flavor will not change. Aging Vodka will not improve the quality of the drink. On the other hand, if you store Vodka in hot temperature, it will go bad. So, if you intend to "store" Vodka, keep it in freezer or cool places.

What Determines the Success of a Restaurant

2008-02-28T19:07:00.000-08:00

There are so many different factors that determine the success of any restaurants. I believe that one of the most important things is the menu whose offerings are delicious and properly served. Since the menu represents the restaurant’s theme or concept, it determines the restaurant’s image which is very important for the customers to make decisions whether to spend their money there or not. Menus and recipes are planned to support the marketing program and to promote optimum sales in terms of both food and beverages. Menus featured should be of top quality and should also conform the owner's criteria of ease of preparation. But the menu items must be offered at prices customers believe provide them value and yet are still high enough to yield a reasonable profit. The menu should be designed to meet the client's food and labor cost criteria.

As mentioned above, theme or concept should also be considered to make a restaurant successful. With a new restaurant, it is its theme or concept that is the cornerstone from which all other elements flow. And for maximum success it must be an intimate and consuming part of the owner's vision. But an existing restaurant already has created a conceptual theme or image in the minds of its patrons. Therefore, changes and additions to menu items must be made in a manner that will enhance the existing impression while adding a new, positive dimension.

Each restaurant has its own unique set of circumstances, which together create a service and financial environment that determines its success. Aside from the menu and prices, I believe that service design is also important to make a restaurant successful. This involves both the food preparation staff and front-end service. The staff should be knowledgeable about the menus they are serving and they, especially the front-end staffs, should be friendly and accommodating to customers. The quality of people hired also determines the restaurant’s success. They should be well-trained to prepare and serve the recipes, and are able to adjust them based on customer feedback.

All the factors mentioned above are very important and should be considered. But, another factor that I have in mind is the environment. The restaurant should be a place that will make customers feel good and comfortable. It has to do with understanding the customer’s feelings. There should be connection with the people who patronize the business. With this, special occasions and unforgettable moments can be made here which will make more loyal customers. I am thinking of special events like marriage proposal or a date that will make couples feel at ease and closer because of the ambiance. Connection between the customers and the place is one key to a successful restaurant.

There are many successful restaurants and their successes are not just based on one factor only. I believe that the factors mentioned above should be combined in order to be successful in this kind of business.

Traders Hotel Review

2008-02-28T19:03:00.000-08:00

The TRADERS hotel has many interesting and helpful recreation and leisure facilities such as fully equipped fitness centre, swimming pool, salon, clinic, health spa and wireless broadband hotspots. Once you arrive at the Traders, you can be taken in by the impressive foyer with efficient and friendly check-in. They gave us a very warm welcome. I easily felt very comfortable. I am a studying about hotel institute management and I realize that the Front Office is the face of every hotel. It may look very simple but a polite and warm welcome by its staffs is far more important. I guess it's a hotel where everyone will surely experience warm Filipino hospitality and service from the moment of arrival to the moment of leaving. When I enter their office, I got a little surprise because its color is black. I find it gloomy though they have used correct lights to make it appear classy and not so dark. Still, I can say that it is in a good taste of colors and lights. Meanwhile when we enter their Function Room, we noticed that it led us to the stairway. When we passed the stairway, I got amazed of its very high ceiling though most of the stairway is dark. Also, they have this wall with a very big mirror on it. From what I have learned and believe now, mirror has a very beneficial effect of making a room or space bigger. Even small rooms would look like it has a wide space.

I have been to many hotels and I can say that this is one of the hotels that I really like because of its friendly staffs and great facilities. You will feel at home when you visit this hotel because of their complete facilities. This Hotel is just superb. The Cleanliness, the staff and the location are really amazing. It’s really an excellent value for money. They even have a very big restaurant where in they separate the smoking area to non-smoking area. Even the conference and function areas features complete and useful equipments like projectors and computers or laptops. They have wide range of services and facilities available for guest's comfort and convenience. Although the hotel is by no means new, the restaurant and pool area are currently being upgraded, the rooms are spacious and the location, overlooking Manila Bay, is superb .Those are clean and giving five-star services. So, I guess my overall feedback is positive, from the staffs to facilities and maintenance.

You can visit this site for more info: http://www.travelmart.net/philippines-pasay/traders-hotel/index.html

Flavor of the Month

2008-02-27T21:16:00.000-08:00

Everybody knows the meaning of "flavor-of-the-month". It could mean many things but it is as simple as having interest or focus on something for a certain period of time. Well, i think i am having one now. I don't know why, but i have this interest on bags!! Shhh, my husband would surely not like this idea. I'm not into bags. I used to have cheap bags and i don't care. I used to have ordinary bags, and i really don't care. But now, i don't know what is going on with me!! I go gaga over bags. And not just bags but signature bags particulary the Ralph Lauren Bags. I actually bought one from an ebay store ( www.ebay.com ). The model says Ralph lauren Houndstooth Clutch Bag Purse. Like what i have mentioned from my previous post, i am not an impulsive buyer. I searched for the cheapest yet authentic and sheek design i could get. And this is what i got! I am so happy with it because, I saw the same design from other stores and it cost double the price i have for the bag. The seller is great and she sells authentic items for reasonable prices. You may check her store. This is the site and particular item i've won: http://cgi.ebay.ph/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=170184196998&ssPageName=STRK:MEWN:IT&ih=007

What can you say about my new bag?:P

This is the very first RL bag i purchased. Hope that its beauty and elegance will last a long time. And I really hope this wouldn't be the last...hahahhaa....:D

Hills like White Elephants

2008-02-27T21:11:00.000-08:00

Two of my Korean students had this same research. These students are in their collage and high-school levels. I don't remember this story when i was still studying, so i got amazed of how this stroy is being used for research. I found the story interesting and so I had this reaction...

Synopsis / summary:

The story opens with the description of distant hills across a river in Spain. An American and his girlfriend sit outside a train station in the heat. No other details about their relationship are provided at the beginning of the story. They decide to order beer, and the woman who works at the bar brings the drinks to their table. The girl remarks that the distant hills look like white elephants, but the man discounts her remark.

The story continues to unfold through dialogue, and it becomes clear that the girl, Jig, does not understand Spanish while the American does. Also, as they talk, it becomes clear that the young woman is pregnant and that the man wants her to have an abortion. Through their tight, brittle conversation, much is revealed about their personalities. At the same time, much about their relationship remains hidden. At the end of the story it is still unclear as to what decision has or has not been made, or what will happen to these two characters waiting for a train on a platform in Spain.

Critical Literary Analysis:

When I read the short story, "Hills like White Elephants", I found it confusing and hard to understand

The story is set in a bar beside a train station. A couple sits together at a table discussing something that is unknown to the reader. The couple is enjoying a beer while awaiting their train. The young woman seems disconnected as she looks out over a line of hills and says, "They look like white elephants". This statement should set off an alarm in the mind of the reader. This statement and the title are symbolic to the meaning of the story. One must know that if one is given a white elephant then they are given an unwanted and useless gift. This leads the reader to believe that this is what the story is about. The couple continues to drink heavily which would also lead one to believe that they have something troubling them. As one continues reading, they are presented with a clue to the couple's problem. The man says, "You don't have to be afraid. I've known lots of people that have done it". He goes on to say, "If you don't want to you don't have to. I wouldn't have you do it if you didn't want to. But it's perfectly simple". This leads the reader to believe that, although it is the couple's problem, the woman holds all responsibility and the right to make the decision. As the story closes, she asks that they terminate the conversation. He takes their luggage to the other side of the train to assure that it is loaded on board, and then he return to the table. "Do you feel better?" he asks. She replies, "I feel fine. There's nothing wrong with me. I feel fine".

Throughout the story the couple refuses to speak of the problem. They refuse to speak of it for fear that actually saying it would be admitting that there actually is a problem. The couple is struggling over the decision of whether or not to abort their unborn child. The reference to white elephants symbolizes the abortion. Many years ago people would give miniature white elephants as gifts. They served no function and were considered unwanted, useless gifts. The abortion was an unwanted gift to this couple. The man continues to reassure the woman that the problem can easily be taken care of. One gets the feeling from the couple's conversation that she may want to keep their unborn child, but she would do anything for him; anything to keep him.

I like this short story. I liked how Ernest Hemingway allowed the reader to ponder what the couple was arguing about. The writing produced by Ernest Hemingway was in itself an act of rebellion that personifies the unique character of how Americans want or believe they should be perceived - self-sufficient, able to move beyond what most people would presumably consider personal setbacks. Also, Hemingway favored a more simplistic approach to convey his view of women, portraying obvious empathy for his female characters, while his male characters and protagonists appear to be more self-absorbed.

Theme:

This story presents a couple in the midst of a crisis. Although unmarried, the girl is pregnant and the man who has made her pregnant wants her to have an abortion. His belief is that the choice for abortion will free them to return to the lives they had lived before the pregnancy. He does not want to share the girl with anyone, particularly not a baby. He believes that the consequences of having the baby will lead to the breakup of the relationship. This story relies on symbolism to carry the theme of either choosing to live selfishly and dealing with the results, or choosing a more difficult and selfless path and reveling in the rewards.

Plot:

The action of the story takes place at a train station in the Ebro River valley of Spain, transpiring over the course of about forty-five minutes. The time setting is not given, but is almost certainly contemporary to the composition (1920s). This particular day is oppressively hot and dry, and the scenery in the valley is barren and ugly for the most part.

One of the Projects

2008-02-27T21:06:00.000-08:00

I am a tutor. All my students are Koreans. I just want to post here the recent homework I made for my student studying at La Salle.

This story got me confused. If you could try searching this stroy in the internet, you might just get confused the same way...

Title: Swaddling Clothes

AUTHOR OF THE Book where the film has been adapted: Yukio Mishima

Literary genre: Drama, History, Crime

Cast of characters: (include only those with important role in the film)

Toshiko
Toshiko’s husband
Toshiko baby’s nurse
Homeless young man

Historical background of the story:

This strange story was written by a Japanese writer, Mishima Yukio, who committed suicide in 1970. The readers interpreted the husband as the American influence, the nurse's baby as new Japan, and Toshiko's baby as traditional Japan. Toshiko was seen as the author himself. Then the story turned out to be the interpretation of how the new Japan, which was changed by America's influences, would "kill" or end the traditional Japan.

CONTENT

1. SETTING:

· WHERE: Japan where Mishima was born

· WHEN: Around 1936 when a violent resistance movement happened in Japan.

2. The plot: This is a story about the death of a Japanese woman, Toshiko. Her baby's nurse bore a bastard baby at her home. The newborn infant, lying on the floor, was wrapped in bloodstained newspapers. Toshiko swathed the infant in flannel and laid him down in an armchair. Her husband, later on, talked about the boy's birth as an amusing incident in a party. Toshiko was shocked and dumbfounded when she heard this. She sensed the bastard baby would grow up in utter misery. She worried later in life the bastard baby would kill her own son. She considered whether she should sacrifice herself for her son. Wandering in a park, she saw a young homeless person lying on a beach. The sleeping young man, covered with newspapers, reminded Toshiko of the future of the bastard baby. Her approaching the homeless person woke him up. The homeless person abruptly got up from the bench and killed Toshiko. Toshiko died without any struggle. To her, she was dying for her son.

3. Characters: write down the names of the main characters, the role of each one in the story, and two or three adjectives top describe them.

· Toshiko – She is very sensitive. Her eyes are open to what is happening and what might happen around her. But I think she becomes oversensitive. She worries a lot.

· Toshiko’s husband – He is an actor husband of Toshiko. He is a very self-centered person. He doesn’t think about what others may feel. He is a much modernized person. He doesn’t live his life in an old-fashion way. He is open-minded to changes.

· Toshiko baby’s nurse – Her duty is to take care of Toshikos’ child as a nurse. She is a very irresponsible mother and an inconsiderate person. She didn’t think about her child’s welfare.

4. Message: has the film got a message? If so what do you think it is? Yes, the film got a lot of messages about love of country’s culture and traditions. In Yukio Mishima's "Swaddling Clothes" we see a great deal of symbolism portraying the corruption of the Japanese culture. And the characters involved reacted in different ways about these changes. The story is told through Toshiko, a lonely and seemingly oppressed wife and mother. She shows how this corruption is leading to decay. The story depicts the corruption of Japanese culture by western modernization.

5. What significant life experience have you seen from the film? Discuss it.

The times are changing and with that change, culture is adapting to it. Like each and one of us, Koreans have their own culture in which some has changed because of modernization or influence of other countries. In my own experience, I am Korean studying in Philippines. Sometimes, I feel culture-shock. And I have reacted in so many ways. I have adapted some changes and maintain some that I believe is better. I am open-minded to changes but not all. I only think of those things that I know will make me a better person.

6. What is the prevailing theme in the story? Support your answer. As I searched to further understand this story, I discovered that the prevailing theme of this story is about “culture clash”. It is about the past, the present and the future social life of a country. It is about the changes that may occur as the result of influences.

LANGUAGE

Make a list of words, phrases or expressions you have learned from this film.

· “Cry at the top of his lung” – cry out very loud

· “it gave me the shock of my life” – most horrible/surprising experience I will never forget

List of words/phrases:

Swaddle - bind

Gastric dilation – describes a very high-appetite, craving for so much food to eat

Somber – very sad/grave

OPINION

1. WOULD YOU RECOMMEND THE MOVIE FOR OTHER TO WATCH? WHY OR WHY NOT?

Yes, I would recommend this to others because it is very interesting and has a lot of lessons about love of the country and being open-minded to changes as well. It shows how people react in different ways regarding changes. Some people accept it with open arms but some are not open to any changes. I believe this story may stir some people into deeply think about the conflicts between tradition and the new coming trend.

2. DOES THIS FILM REMIND YOU OF OTHER MOVIES THAT YOU HAVE SEEN? IF SO, WHAT AND WHY?

This story reminds me of the movie “Father of the Bride”. This is movie is not about history or culture but it is about changes and growing up. In this movie, the father is an ordinary, middle-class man whose daughter has decided to marry a man from an upper-class family, but the father can’t think of what life would be like without his daughter. He becomes slightly insane, but his wife tries to make him happy for their daughters, but when the wedding takes place at their home and a foreign wedding planner takes over the ceremony, the father must try to handle the fact that people grow up. Just like the “Swaddling Clothes”, Toshiko is like the father who couldn’t just take changes and got very nervous in facing the fact that things change just like his daughter who is becoming a woman. And her husband is like the wife in “Father of the Bride” who openly accepted the changes that might happen.

The Best Toothbrush

2008-02-27T21:00:00.000-08:00

The BEST toothbrush as recommended by dentists and dental students.

Sonicare Elite 7500:

Pros
Don't need to brush hard, quadpacer, battery indicator, and clean feeling afterwards

Cons
Upper part of handle can retain water so make sure to clean it out

The Bottom Line
If your bristles turn outwards because you brush too hard or your dentist says your brushing is causing a receding gumline, get this brush!

Full Review

Sonicare toothbrush is recommended by many professors and colleagues. With Sonicare, you don't have to brush hard. With regular toothbrushes even the OralB and Crest SpinBrushes, you would apply too much force that all my bristles would bend outwards. With this toothbrush it's really difficult to apply a lot of pressure on the toothbrush because it's already vibrating so much. The force is about 10x the regular Crest and OralB brushes they sell in the stores. Brushing with the Sonicare 7500 is like brushing with a new toothbrush everyday.

It is also a fact that the toothbrush has the quad pacert that tells you to switch to a different region in your mouth (ie top front, top back, bottom front, bottom back). Also, Sonicare comes with a rechargeable battery is also a plus. The toothbrush head's bristles are curved to get in between your teeth and to clean the surface of a tooth. After brushing with the Sonicare 7500 you would feel like passing your tongue across the front and back of all your teeth and it feels like you just got your teeth cleaned by a hygienist. The noise of the Sonicare is less audible than the Cybersonic toothbrushes.

If you're the type of person that likes to see your teeth while you're brushing, the vibration force of the brush will cause you to get speckles of toothpaste to fly on your mirror, so don't brush with your mouth open or with your lips not enclosed on the Sonicare toothbrush.

Cooking Method

2008-02-27T20:59:00.000-08:00

Non-fat Cooking Method (Cooking Method with fat)

Broiling: A fast way to cook fish, meat and poultry, as the food is under a direct heat source. The fat from meat simply drains away into the bottom of the pan.

Grilling: Outdoors or indoors. The fat drains away from the food.

Roasting: This can be done without using a great deal of oil, or by using broth to baste instead. Foil wrap can also be used to seal in moisture.

Poaching: A great way to cook fish or chicken, by gently simmering in a flavored liquid.

Fat-based Cooking Method (Cooking Method with Fat)

Sautéing: This allows us to cook food quickly in a small amount of hot oil. If oil is not really hot before the food is added, the food will absorb oil and become soggy.

Oven Frying: This is similar to baking or roasting except fat is added. Food may be oven fried with or without breading.

Stir-frying: Cut chicken, or beef, and vegetables into thin strips, lightly coat pan with oil and cook over high heat, stirring, and tossing.

Deep-fat frying: This is done by completely immersing the meat in heated deep fat and allowing it to remain in the fat until it is done.

At an Early Age

2008-02-27T20:46:00.000-08:00

My eldest son just turned six last January 1st, but he already knows how to play the "Star craft" game. He doesn't just know it, but he even loves it!! He can win games whether alone or with his father as his team mate. Imagine that for a six-year old child!! I am proud of him. I don't even know how to paly it. I mean, i get confused just looking at it. I can't remember every term and necessary moves. Even his father got amazed on how fast he can memorize and learn important moves. Amazing thinking!

He also belongs to the top 3 students of his class. He did not take nursery but he excells in his academics. For us, he is the top 1, though the teacher used to tell me that he is the best academically but not in P.E class and behavior. What a reason!! What a critereon!! For us, our son is one of the best at his early age...and we're looking forward to seeing him successful in the future..:P

The movie " NEXT "

2008-02-19T19:10:00.000-08:00

Last night my husband and I watched this movie of Nicholas Cage. We liked it. It is an interesting movie with an interesting twist. Though i can say that its title sum it all. For some reviews that i've read, this film wasn't able to stick on how Dick's novel projected the story....there could have been more suspense and not just action. They said the casting was bad. Hmmmm...i can say that's true. There is no chemistry between Cage and Biel. I would rather choose Moore to be his partner. Anyway, this movie is a sci-fi thriller that compared to others will hardly overwhelm, but the storyline kept me and my husband engaged from start to finish.

My rate for this movie: 3 out of 4 stars..***

Imagine if you knew someone who had the ability to see into the future for the next two minutes. What would you do?

15th Travel Tour Expo 2008

2008-02-18T19:12:00.000-08:00

The purpose of this event is to call the attention of travel and tourism industry. The atmosphere stimulates the desire to travel among visitors. The event offers expanded product and service offerings for every target group in this industry, from national tourism organizations, airlines, cruises, hotels and resorts, to outbound and inbound travel packages. Its target audience are:

· Travel and Tourism Trade Practitioners

Corporate and Business Travelers
Holiday Travelers
Incentive and Convention Planners
Government and Business Leaders
Direct Buyers and Investors

I find their marketing materials effective enough to attract visitors from traveling. I, myself, suddenly felt the urge of traveling after I saw their advertisements. Also, I saw a lot of people came there. There are also a lot of exhibiting companies who participated and they all seemed to get buyer participants. I saw a lot of visitors and they seemed very much interested. The place was not boring. It was actually a very lively event with their entertainment, games and presentations. Their ads are colorful enough and nice to look at and read. From the picture I took beside their promo ads, it is proven that it is clear, big enough and inviting. Even though there were a lot of booths, the directions were made very clear thru the color division they made. It is very informative and clear. Also, from the entrance, with the “Mabuhay” sign and warm greetings from a person wearing a face mascot and smiling people, made me feel very much welcome. Overall, I can say that the event is another successful industry event in town.

Hotels with Allergy-Friendly Rooms

2008-02-16T04:57:00.000-08:00

A Timely Product Innovation

I have heard a lot of new discoveries or innovations to make a hotel more inviting, but this was my first time to hear about allergy-friendly rooms. As I read the article from this site: http://www.entrepreneur.com/tradejournals/article/159178340.html, the concept sounds good to me. I have a sensitive skin and so this kind of idea seems very good to someone like me. The article mentioned about the rate of people getting allergies and I truly believe to that. The environment nowadays are getting polluted that is why a lot of people are getting allergies. Allergies are on the increase. There are chemicals in everything and it is now almost impossible to avoid all the things that make us cough, sneeze, itch, or have skin, lung, stomach, and even brain problems. And so, customers might think that is better to stay in a room where they will be protected against any kind of allergies and deseases. I know that It is more expensive to have medications and buy medicines when you get sick. So, I guess it is better to be in a safe place or room. With many as travelers coughing, sneezing and wheezing their way through the day, or night, the thought crossed a few minds to develop hotel rooms that are free of all the nasty stuff that causes guests to feel as if their airways are clogging. Not that many didn't feel that way before checking in. But to find relief in a hotel room, what a surprise. Whether the environmentally friendly rooms become as prevalent as non-smoking rooms and floors in lodging establishments is another matter. Any relief from bad air and bacteria-ridden rooms is a Godsend to travelers with serious asthmatic conditions. For me, this is really a brilliant idea! The concept is just timely for the needs of many people. These rooms are in-demand nowadays and people will surely look for it. And speaking of people looking for these kind of rooms, advertisment and effective websites are needed in order to inform the people about this. I believe, there are still a lot of people who do not know about this. Just like me, I would not bother asking about it since this kind of rooms are not ordinary rooms. So, a special advertisment is needed in order to make this offer noticeable to customers. This rooms are invented because situations of a lot of people demand for it. An investment is needed but I think it is worth the effort and money. This is about the health of people and all of us regard health highly. Rooms are where we sleep and should feel comfortable. Specially during vacation, people would want to stay in a place where they can truly rest without worrying about allergies or deseases due to airborne effect. This is also an example of how addressing a health risk can increase business. If customers with allergies cannot enter a hotel for any reason, then they are lost revenue. So, this is one way hotels are sorting out this kind of peoblem. So, if allergy sufferers, who don’t go to hotels because of reactions to all sorts of factors, would suddenly find a hotel that caters to their problem. Straightforward niche marketing and sound business sense. This reducing of allergens can definetely create more business on hotels.

I love Cell Phones!!!!

2008-02-14T23:49:00.000-08:00

I love cell phones!!!! But I am not an impulsive buyer. I think first things first...

In buying a cell phone I consider:

how I want to represent myself to people who see me

Be yourself and don't imitate other people. If you like pink and be cool eventhough you are already a mother, then go for it and feel young.

phone specifications

Be knowledgeable about different kinds of specs and weigh its importance to you.

price

It could be brand new or second-hand phones, just make sure that it would fit your budget.

quality

Brand names, reviews and comments should be read from different sites. Compare them carefully. www.gsmarena.com has been a big and reliable help.

new release cell phones

Be updated. It doesn't mean that you will buy the latest and most expensive cell phone in town, but atleast you can watch for it and compare it to your target model.

stores (actual or internet)

Browse the net. Text the sellers. Visit possible stores. Check their prices and warranties. Compare!

Changing or buying a new cell phone when you already have one or two could be considered as a "want" but it depends on your personal "needs", may it be for your business or for boosting your self-esteem. Just be sure that after buying, you still have the budget for other important things and that you would feel happy (and not regretful) after the purchase.

Last week, I changed my cell phone from Sony Ericsson Z610i(pink) to Sony ericsson P990i. I had the pink phone because of its color without changing the features i love like 3g, video calling and 2mp camera. I actually felt contented until i realized that i need a "wi-fi" feature. We had a router at home but only have 1 desktop and 1 laptop (just for my husband). Sometimes, i couldn't use the computer because of my sons. But now, i could check my emails and even do chatting on my phone. I feel great about it! Though i'm missing the pink color, i just put a pink-color theme on my phone and use pink accessories on it.

Another thing, I thought of SE P1 and it's really good, slim and cool because ot its 3.2mp camera. But P990i and P1 almost have the same features. I'd rather have my p990i price and keypad.

By the way, it's a second-hand cellphone but it looks great! I bought it almost new, complete with 2gb mem, for only Php10,500.00 at www.sulit.com. Isn't it a great buy?! It pays all the hardwork of searching!!

Till next buy!!!

Unforgettable E-mail For Parents and Children

2008-02-14T22:11:00.000-08:00

I have received this e-mail a long time. I had it printed right after I had read it. I still keep the old paper in my wallet coz i don't want to forget about it. My purpose.......i want my children to read it and remember me the way the story goes:

A long time ago, there was a huge apple tree. A little boy loved to come and play around it everyday. He climbed to the tree top, ate the apples, took a nap under the shadow...He loved the tree and the tree loved to play with him. Time went by...the little boy had grown up and he no longer play around the tree everyday. One day, the boy came back to the tree and he looked sad. "Come and play with me," the tree asked the boy. "I am no longer a kid, I don't play around trees anymore." the boy replied, " I want toys. I need money to buy them."
"Sorry, but I don't have money...but you can pick all my apples and sell them. So, you will have money." The boy was so excited. He grabbed all the apples on the tree and left happily. The boy never came back after he picked the apples.

The tree was sad. One day, the boy returned and the tree was so excited. "Come and play with me" the tree said. "I don't have time to play. I have to work for my family. We need a house for shelter. Can you help me?"
"Sorry but I don't have a house. But you can chop off my branches to build your house." So the boy cut all the branches of the tree and left happily. The tree was glad to see him happy but the boy never came back since then. The tree was again lonely and sad. One hot summer day, the boy returned and the tree was delighted. "Come and play with me!" the tree said. "I am sad and getting old. I want to go sailing to relax myself. Can you give me a boat?" "Use my truck to build your boat. You can sail far away and be happy." So the boy cut the tree truck to make a boat. He went sailing and never showed up for a long time.

Finally, the boy returned after he left for so many years. "Sorry,my boy. But I don't have anything for you anymore. No more apples for you..." the tree said. "I don't have teeth to bite" the boy replied. " No more truck for you to climb". "I am too old for that now" the boy said. "I really can't give you anything...the only thing left is my dying roots" the tree said with tears. "I don't need much now, just a place to rest. I am tired after all these yeas." The boy replied. "Good! Old tree roots is the best place to lean on and rest. Come, come sit down with me and rest." The boy sat down and the tree was glad and smiled with tears....

I know..my babies(used to be) will soon be grown up kids, but they will always stay babies in my heart...babies whom i am willing to give everything- no matter what- just to make them happy.

This could also be me and everyone else..When we ere young, we loved to play with mom and dad. When we grow up, we leave them and only come to them when we need something or when we are in trouble. But, it's not yet too late. While your parents are still alive, show them how much you appreciate them.

My father died when i was in high school but his memories will remain in me forever. He was like the tree who's always willing to give everything he could to make me happy. I always thank God because he had given me the best father i could ever known in this world. I always tell God that my father had done his duties well. And, I want my children to remember me the way i remember my father. I want to show them the true meaning of the story, parent's UNCONDITIONAL LOVE...

My Personal Mission Statement

2008-02-14T10:21:00.000-08:00

My core values are essential and enduring beliefs of my wholeness. It should stand the test of time. It should not be changed due to changes around me, but rather change things and remain loyal to my values. To find success, I will strive hard and never give up. To find contentment, I should be worthy of the respect and admiration of my family, friends and, as much as possible, all the people I have contact with.

Core Values: My Guiding Principles for life

Integrity

I want to mold my integrity by comprising my personal inner sense of “wholeness” deriving from honesty and consistent uprightness of character. I want to have a positive effect on all people I come in contact with.

Excellence:

I will strive to emulate people who have proven excellence in their fields. I will constantly seek high quality performance that produces outstanding results of lasting value.

Responsibility:

I must not violate the trust placed in me by family members, friends, and business associates. I will learn to delegate responsibility and trust more effectively.

Ambition:

I believe that ambition is a passion for achieving, an unquenchable thirst for more and better. I will live life with ambition to be fulfilled. I will make my dreams come true.

Intelligence:

I believe that aside from knowledge learned, intelligence can also be assessed through the innate ability to perceive relationships and identify co-relationships. I will utilize my talents effectively and strategically. I will use all my mental and physical capacity to overcome hindrances in my chosen path and I will succeed.

The Sign of Danger in Relationships

2008-02-14T07:35:00.000-08:00

Love is the most beautiful thing in the world. We are made out of love. And all of us want to experience great love in our lives. In a relationship, two people are involved. And not just people but two different people. So, the danger of breaking up is always a possible reality. But before it could happen there are signs that can help us prevent this thing from happening. In my own experience, I have already gone through a relationship. Those were the times I was not yet aware of the signs of danger in relationship. Now, I have come to realize the importance of these signs because it may correct and address problems. The increased negative feelings, criticism, defensiveness, contempt, invalidation and withdrawal are the signs of danger which may lead to couple’s separation. These signs are very common to almost all couples if not all. These are usually the stages we experience and even see to other couples. I realize that these are all about selfishness. We only think about how we feel, and always think that we are right. We do not try to understand our partner’s feelings because we are overwhelmed of our own selfish feelings. We become self-centered people. We pity ourselves. We no more fight for the love we used to have because of selfish reasons. Though these feelings are hard to beat, still we can now be aware before it comes to a point of giving up the relationship. I believe all break ups hurt no matter how it ended. Therefore, it is important to take care of a worthy relationship. When any of these characteristics or signs begins to appear, it is time to do something. It is better to do something early than waste your time to a relationship that is going nowhere.

Poem about discrimination

2008-02-14T06:45:00.001-08:00

He feels alone, he feels being annoyed

Because of the color that is being hate by the world.

He left his home because of his dream

But what he finds is someone to lower his self-esteem.

Why do we have to choose friends by the looks?

Why can't we just accept someone no matter how he looks?

There is only one God who created us all.

Therefore, we should be children of one God who loves us all.

We are all equal in the eyes of God

So it's not right for someone unusual to be judged

If we keep on doing discrimination

Then we are not children of God and not part of his dominion.

Forget about the race. Forget about the colors.

Don’t let someone feel down. Don’t let someone feel alone.

May we all realize that we are made equal.

We are brothers and sisters in the eyes of God.

The Five Languages of Love

2008-02-14T06:34:00.000-08:00

Everybody wants to love and be loved. But not everyone has a happy ending simply because love is a complicated thing. It is not just about feelings and emotions. First, I have learned about the five languages of love: words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service and physical touch. Different people have different perspective about love. People think differently. And so it is important to remember that the love language is different for everyone. Therefore, it is important to know your partner needs and basis of appreciation. In this way, one will be able to express his love for his partner. Before, I used to show love in a way I know I can feel loved. But now I have learned that my partner may not feel loved by the way I do it because it is not his language of love. The five languages of love show people that in order to express love; we have to focus in giving time and effort in order to know the person well. It could be words of affirmation which is about verbal compliments and encouragement; or quality time which is spending focused time to your partner; or receiving gifts which is about giving materials even not expensive or just the gift of self; or acts of service which is helping the other wholeheartedly; or physical touch which is another way of communication through touch. Love is not being selfish. Love is something we do for someone else. It is not only about our own feelings and needs. Usually couples or partners do not have the same language of love. Therefore, the best way to fill our partner’s love tank is to express love in their love language. This type of communication is about the importance of being able to express love to your partner in a way that your partner can understand. The five languages of love can help partners to connect with one another. Now, I know that even tough loving someone is risky; it can still be beautiful and lasting.