First, Sour Notes… Then Sweet Music

LOVE IS what makes the world go round. True.

But for me, at times, what makes the world go round is music—from its melody, to its high and low notes, especially in its harmony.

 I distinctly remember the talk series: 3Ts (Time, Treasure and Talent) which, in a gist, advised that we serve God, using our time, treasure, and talent. I’ve been blessed with a good voice. Since I was 8 years old, I’d been a Glee club member in my elementary school, a choir member in highschool, a band singer and member of the Music Ministry of the Youth for Christ in Adamson University. I’ve been invited to be a wedding or birthday singer. Plus I had joined various singing contests. attempted to write songs, too.

So following the 3T teaching, I auditioned to be a member of the Feast PICC Choir in 2010. Simon Santos, the chorus pianist, told me to go to 8^th Note studios on Quezon Avenue in Quezon City for the audition. Unfortunately, I couldn’t go because I had work on the day of the audtion. 

A few months after, I heard the Media Ministry was calling for volunteers.  I love to write, so I joined the Ministry.

I love my co-servants who have become my extended family and true friends. I enjoyed my Media work—covering Feast events and writing stories for The Feast bulletin. Yet deep inside me, I still yearned to join the Feast Choir. One time, in one of its Lobby gimmicks, the Creative and Events Group set up a big Wish Ko Lord board and invited Feast attendees to draw a specific dream on the board. I drew my dream of singing for the Lord.

Three years after, Bro. Pong Jimenez, The Feast Choir master, asked me several times to join the Choir. But I told him I already had some obligations in the Media Ministry.

Then, last February, the Music Ministry opened an audition again for singers and instrumentalists. All the music genres played both in my head and my heart as I wondered whether to take another chance to join the Choir. 

The only thing that urged me to go was one word: Believe! I took a leap of faith and auditioned.

But I encountered series of obstacles, like sour notes playing, starting on the day before the audition day. There was blackout in our place, so I spent a sleepless night. The following day, because I didn’t have enough sleep, I felt my voice cracking. I was like, “Oh, God, not this day!”

Still I proceeded to the 8^th Note studios on Panay Avenue, Quezon City, for the audition which was scheduled at 7:30 p.m. On the way, I encountered more troubles.  There was a heavy traffic so I decided to take the MRT. But alas, the MRT was not issuing tickets because the trains were delayed.

 I decided to take a bus. But when the time came for me to pay my fare, I realized my coin ourse was missing. It was snatched from my bag! My heart thumped as I told the conductor I was robbed.

I was supposed to meet up with my friend, Candice on Quezon Avenue. She would accompany me to the audition.  So I attempted to call her to let her know my predicament. But whoa, I ran out of load. Good thing my mobile phone had this amenity where you could communicate with someone via your Facebook account—even if you didn’t have enough load. So I was able to get in touch with Candice. She told me to pray ask Mother Mary to intercede for me.  I did. And would you believe, right after I said my Hail Mary, my phone rang. Another friend, Apple, who knew I was going for the audition, was calling me just to say “Goodluck.”

I told her I was running out of load. And Apple, bless her, went to 7-11 store and sent me a P100 worth of load. 

Then when I was about to get off the bus, the conductor did not demand for my fare. He gave me P20 instead. A young woman who heard that I’d been robbed handed me a crisp P50-bill! 

It was already 8p.m when I finally met up with Candice.  I was already 30 minutes late for the audition. Hurriedly we took a tricycle to 8^th Note Studios. As I entered the room, I saw the Choir members were there already. And the moment they saw me, they applauded. I never felt so welcomed, so loved! I then auditioned and by God’s grace, I was taken in. Suddenly the sour notes were gone, as sweet music played around me.

It was a rhythm divine as my dreams started to align with my time, my work schedule and my family and friend’s support. I praise the Lord because I’m able to sing for Him at the Feast every Sunday. And the moment I sing with the Choir, I feel the angels above are singing with us—all for God’s glory.

Big chorus team praising our Big God

--30--

When Kim said Yes

I define Romantic comedy or Rom com as a type of movie genre wherein the characters portray not just funny stunts but they creatively, awkwardly and humorously throw their lines. Sometimes the male character will take time proposing to the woman he loves and then the woman will wait in a in-denial state, but would probably feel that somewhere in time, whether funny twists and turns happen—this still lead them in a happy ever after. 

(Sensya na, info overload part ng curriculum eh…hahaha)

I

f a man loves a woman, he’d do anything even the impossible things for her.

Last Sunday night was one of my most anticipated nights for this year. Finally someone proposed a marriage to….ok, not to me, but to Ate Kim, the hottest-bride-to-be and one of my most special sissies in our Ministry. 

Supposedly, it was her Bridal shower, but we broke the odds and norms that it should only be a lady’s thing, as we invited our brothers from our ministry.

The usual stuff happened from  eating to suprising the bride to be with games, giving of wishes, sending gifts,  and talking about who’s next to get married..  I’ve attended different bridal showers before and mind you all were WHOLESOME with li’l naughtiness as well. And all of them were absolutely amazing.

But this one was different.

A

te Kim’s bridal shower became a way for Kuya Albert to propose to her.

Yes, these funny and a little bit crazy lovers will get altar-bounded next month. I love to write their lovestory but nothing beats Ate Kim as she will testify her journey in finding the one.

She was clueless that this proposal will take in or maybe she has a hint of it but remained silent about it. Even us, were surprised that Kuya A haven’t proposed to her yet and his reason: he doesn’t know the size of Ate Kim’s ring finger. We could be like, “Hello, Kuya A, one month na lang at kasal nyo na,” but instead of distressing him, Cris, I, and all our connivers saw it as way to make everything special and exceptional.  Ok, genius na rin! Hahaha

She already knew the bridal shower set up since 3 weeks ago. So, after attending the Feast and as our heads engaged in their meeting, I was excited to witness this serendipitous event. Call me romantic, fine! ^_^

Tito Ed patiently drove us to Ate Kim’s condo and then alas’ to  Ate Amor and Kuya Mark’s place at East Raya Gardens. We stayed at the high-end clubhouse for our dinner. Some of us haven’t got the food yet, so Pao, Jan, Cris, Kuya A. and I bought immediately the food. When we were already outside, we saw Ate Angel backrides on her boyfriend’s motor. Pao, Jan, Cris, and I got kilig after catching Ate Angel and her boyfriend’s sweetness. It took us awhile to buy all the viand, dessert and alike, so when we returned to the clubhouse… I was glad to see the 3^rd session servants: ACru (Apple Cruda), Kuya Dave, Candice, Jessed and A Cru’s friend, Val. Then, our eyes gorged on the sumptuous meal. We prayed of course first then we started our eating festival. After producing the sound of each of our, “burp,” I readied myself for the surprise game, however, Ate Amor told me that we can use the empty space on their upper unit instead. So, we immediately cleaned our mess and leftovers and packed up our belongings.

Before arriving to that empty space, Cris or Pao (I’m not sure who did it..hehe) blindfolded Ate Kim as Pao guided her going upstairs.  Few minutes passed by before we asked her to remove her blindfold. And then…

L

ights out, Kuya Dave, the macho dancer in!

Everyone was humming the legendary sound of “tenan tan tan, ten ten ten,” as Kuya Dave started to dirty dance in front of Ate Kim.

I have so much respect to Kuya Dave, but when Cris started convincing him to dirty dance for Ate Kim, he was half ready about it, but he still did. Honestly, nothing changed; I still love and respect Kuya Dave after he did that.. ‘Twas actually fun! 

Everything was well-planned, but there were a lot of bloopers along the way and I love those! I was sure, God laughed terribly at us. Actually, the surprise game was Pinoy Henyo, but later on I changed it into Pinoy Genius, because the guesser and the respondent will solely speak in English. All the words that I used are wedding related.

Little did Ate Kim know that it was a pre-proposal set-up. I was flabbergasted that my friends were all best actors and actresses. 

During the game, Cris was the funniest, because as Pao kept on guessing the word, Cris abruptly revealed, “Gown,” so I disqualified them right away. Hihihi

I planned that only Ate Rhoda and Ate Amor vs. Kuya A. and Ate Kim will be on the 2^nd round, and eventually these lovebirds will take it all on the FINAL round.

Kuya A: Person? Animal? Thing?

B

efore the final round was over, the moment of truth began to set in.

I placed the picture of Mama Mary on Kuya A’s head; I mean the picture of Our Lady of Veritas since I can’t find an exact image of Mama Mary. I used my resourcefulness and wrote in bold letters, “MARY” on the bottom of the picture. Kuya A. started guessing the word and I saw Ate Kim’s confused face, though she kept on answering, “Yes.. No..  Could be,” It almost took a minute after Kuya A said, “Mary,” then with an unsure answer, Ate Kim said, “Yes!” I immediately place the word, “ME!!!” While Ate Kim answered in a shocked and confused face, “Yes!” Then Kuya A. completed the 2 words with, “MARRY ME!” Ate Kim’s face turned blank. Then Kuya A went closer to Ate Kim, held her hand and said in a funny and childlike way, “Marry Me!“ Again, Ate Kim had no reaction yet.

Thanks to Cris' perfect suggestion on the final round's flow. :)

As I was dumdfounded on the scene, Cris blurted out, “Oy, Marthina yung ilaw patayin mo na!” hahaha.. It was so funny and awkward. But, as the lights faded out, the candles were in. Ate Rhoda, Cris, others and I were holding the candles which set us in a serious mode. I was holding the candle close to Ate Kim and she seemed so natural, remained composed and witty while Kuya A. had a little shaky voice and trembling knees. But he was confident on what he was doing and what he was about to say. Then, he had finally knelt down in front of Ate Kim, showed the ring and began to say his proposal lines from the movie, Runaway Bride:

Ate Kim: Hindi kinakaya ng hair ko to!

“Look, I guarantee there'll be tough times. I guarantee that at some point, one or both of us is gonna want to get out of this thing. But I also guarantee that if I don't ask you to be mine, I'll regret it for the rest of my life, because I know, in my heart, you're the only one for me.”

One thing I’ve realized… It doesn’t matter how perfect and special the proposal is, what’s essential is, the woman would say, YES! Ate Kim had finally said Yes to Kuya A. Not just because Kuya A perfected the Pinoy Genius game or Ate Kim’s desperate, or everybody coerced her to say it. Moreover, she’s definitely SURE about her answer. She prayed about it every day,  waited for many years, and sweat it out to be who is she is now, same as with Kuya A. God already made them strong before they met each other. Ate Kim is one of the best event organizers I know and she always say this, “God orchestrated everything perfectly.” 

Ate Kim: Ay ito na yun???

She believes that she’ll meet the one for her someday. Actually, she even contracted Cris to be her official photographer, even if she hasn’t met her future husband yet. Talk about strong faith.

As the couple sat together, Pao and I sang them Forevermore by Side-A.

Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy! :)

And then, since, media people love press conference; these two lovebirds were caught in it. A-Cru was the most interested and Tita Chay of course. Afterwards Tita Chay asked us to give them wishes. Everyone prayed for longevity, peace, children, trust and faith to each other; remain as a role model, say kind words to each other. But I loved what Jan said to them, “When you reach 500 years old, I’ll still be your wedding dressmaker. Even on your 25^th, 50^th and 100^th wedding anniversary.” And also Val’s wish, “I pray for your financial abundance,” which I think is what the future marriage partner badly needs someday. Well, God will provide the best things to their marriage.

After that, we went down to Ate Amor’s and Kuya Mark’s room to consume Tintin’s kink 

cake. 

To the Hottest Bride We Know

Photos by Dave Apalla

Wait for my next blog post next month… It’s:  When Kim said I do.

--30--

Tuesday with Apple: Series of Fortunate and Unfortunate Events

Tuesday with Apple:

Series of Fortunate and Unfortunate Events

I wrote this on my journal 2 weeks ago, however, series of errands delayed me in blogging this.

T

he meeting

Last October 23, me, Pao and Apple decided to meet up in Ayala Triangle, since it’s Apple’s leave and we haven’t seen her for more than a week. What’s that ‘c’ word, clingy? Yes, we’re like that. Hahaha

Anyway, I’m expecting that our Tuesdate will be well, but to my surprise it turned out like a space shuttle ride!

We met Apple at Ayala Triangle aroung 5:10 in the afternoon while she was sitting alone, distant from a guy who did the same. I approached Apple as I left Pao while she fixed her shoes. Apple and I had a little chitchat then immediately went to Pao. Since Pao’s toes were aching, I promised her that we’ll go to PLDT to get my shoes and lend it to her. But before that, we decided to eat first in Jollibee, across Ayala Triangle. While we’re ordering our food, Apple and I kept on chatting while Pao was gorging her eyes on Apple’s pre-birthday gift to her. After the food was served, it was like a mini birthday party because our food were chicken, spaghetti and ice cream. Unknown to us, that sumptuous meal prepared us for a great adventure.

We stayed at Jollibee for almost 2 hours, then we decided to go to PLDT to leave there our stuff and Pao’s shoes. As I got there, I changed my slippers into my bronze high-heeled shoes, so that Pao can use my red slippers. Afterwards, off to SGV bldg beside the office, to meet Ate Joanna, Apple’s close cousin. As she went down to meet us, she seemed amazed to see Apple on that day, because Apple’s schedule at JP Morgan is from 4pm-1am. So we kept on talking and talking. After 15 minutes, Pao comically said, “Let’s go to Makati Pen, our second home.” We laughed altogether, and then Apple excitedly answered, “Game!”

Then, we bid goodbye to Ate Joanna and we started walking and enjoying Ayala as the exquisiteness of its lights guided our way. When we’re already in front of Makati Pen’s entrance, we confidently went upstairs and entered the door to the restaurant which finally led us to the lobby. Then we went to restroom that looks like a hotel room too. The ambience was incomparable. “Let’s go up the 2^nd floor,” Pao demanded. When we’re by now at the receiving area, we sat at the sofas as we listened to the orchestra’s night serenade.

W

ho’s going to check-in?

We’re actually fan of checking in on facebook, so when Pao asked who’s going to check-in. I initiated. After doing it, we read Shem’s status on facebook and got bothered about it, so Apple got her phone promptly and dialed Shem’s number. Apple gave me the phone and let me talk to Shem. Then she answered hello. “Uy, anong anong nangyayari sa’yo?” “What’s happening with you?” I asked her. She answered with a cracking voice and said, “I experienced an intense palpitations and went to the hospital for a chain of test. Friend, I’m so afraid.” I comforted her and told her that everything will be fine. She thanked us for the call, believing that all is well. After the call, we decided to roam around the hotel.

‘Twas dazzling and meant for rich people, but we didn’t care. We walked were the rich people walk—head up high and oozing with confidence. J

It’s past 9 o’clock, so I told Pao that we should get our things in the office before it’s too late. So we returned there and got those. When got outside the office, out of the blue, Apple said, “Thina, I have another version of Gangnam style on my phone, come on and let’s dance.” “Hah, okay!” I answered. We looked for a place where we can make it happen, then tadah, we found the corridor empty , so Apple started playing the song, and I danced it in Thina’s style—oozing with craziness! Hahaha.. What the Fun! J

Then, we settled on strolling along Greenbelt.

A

pple purchased a Neil Gaiman book

She quickly saw Powerbooks, so she almost swiftly insisted us to get inside the store. We directly went to 2^nd floor, then she asked me the book that I like and she’d buy it for herself. So I recommended her to buy a Neil Gaiman’s book.

 After she bought the book, we’re off to anywhere our feet will take us.  Apple unexpectedly place Neil G.’s book in my paper bag. Pao and I wanted Apple to be familiar with Greenbelt, so as we kept on walking along the place, we became so thirsty. We’re so pickle-minded where to drink, so we ended up going to Mcdo and asked for 3 cups of cold water. Woah, after the water touched my mouth as it went down to my throat, I felt so refreshed. Then, we continued our conversation and sipped the water. Chatted and gulped the water. Laughed and slurped the water.

Suddenly, Apple asked me if she can get the book that she bought; hence, I gave it to her right away. She started taking off the plastic cover and had a difficulty smudging the price on the book. Then, she extended her hand and said, “O para sa’yo.” “This is for you.”  “Woah, thank you,” I humbly answered. I almost wanted to kiss her on her forehead. Hahaha… Actually, my event organizer instinct was turned on—so strange to her-- I silently know that she purchased the book for me. I’m used to surprises. Hahaha

Since, we won’t give an order for a meal in Mcdo, we continued chatting and then I asked her to sketch in our bulletin. At first, she was shy but all awhile she did one. As she was sketching me, Pao asked me to accompany her in fitting the red dress, Apple gave.It’s a beautiful and almost a perfect day as I said myself—which comes from our friendship with Apple.

S

ongs to an old man

Apple didn’t want to go home yet, so she asked us if we could have a videoke at Center Stage along Jupiter Ave or she could drink somewhere. Of course, I chose videoke. So, we chose to walk as we’re heading to Center Stage. I didn’t mind walking even with heels as long as I’m with my friends. We passed by Ayala Triange, but unluckily the lights were off. Well, those lights added flavor to the beauty of Ayala Triangle. Even though it was the scenario, I found Apple still stunned by the Japanese matrushka dolls in of the restaurants there. She’s one of a kind Japanese anime enthusiast.

As we continued walking along Ayala Avenue and we’re nearby Berlitz, Int’l school, an old man suddenly grabbed our attention. Yet, Pao was the first one to move. This old man had a hard time in walking, so Pao went to ask him what happened and I followed my sister. Apple was still a little far-away from him; maybe she wondered why did Pao talk to this old, strange man. Then, Pao started asking him. We found out that he has a wound on his lower right ankle due to complication from diabetes. He was unhesitant to tell his bitter tale about his 14-year old son who died 3 or 4 days ago as he hounded for food but unfortunately he had eaten a wrong food and got poisoned immediately. The old man continued telling my sister how much he hates the world, because as he went to some government officials to ask for financial help, they ended up ignoring him. We asked him where he lives and how much is his fare to get there. He said that he’s from Gen. Trias, Cavite and his fare is P140.00. So we instantly gave him P 150.00 and spaghetti. What bothered us most was when he let us read the message from his 12 year-old daughter telling that they need P 2,000 plus promissory note to pull-out the rotten body of his son from their house. It broke our heart when he said that if he can’t get that amount tomorrow, he’ll risk everything and will plot a hold-up anywhere. We told him to not to do it, but he’s decided. He even asked us to get away from him, since we already know his plan; he might end up doing bad thing to us. So, Pao and I walked away as fast as we could, but Apple remained calm in walking. She’s not scared because knowing the old man’s condition; he’s not capable to do such crime.

As the shadow followed my heels to Center Stage, we’re praying for him. Finally, our feet had landed to center stage at 11p.m. We picked up the songs from Gary V., Alanis Morisette and we realized that every song that we sang was connected to the old man. We sang and we prayed for him. We felt guilty because the series of fortunate events that happened to us was contrary to what the old man experienced.

Though we seemed to enjoy the night, deep down our heart we dedicated our songs to that old man.

I

 Don’t care, High-Heels

Our benefit concert ended at 1 a.m. so as Apple was ready to pay our bills using her credit card but unfortunately it wasn’t working. She called me over the phone and told me that’s she’s in an ATM  machine and she said that she withdrew only P600.00, our bill was around P900.00 so she asked us for P 300.00, I said ok. She returned to center stage feeling sorry but we told her that was really ok. So, before we pay our bills, we counted first our fare. We counted our lose coins. then tadah--we decided to stay overnight to Apple's aunt. But she said that instead of riding on a jeep or a taxi, we'd walk miles and miles. My feet was aching, but I tolerated the pain as long as I was walking with my friend and sister. 

We landed on Tita Venus' house at past 2 a.m. and we slept there fine.

Tomorrow is another day, but I won't forget that day. :)

--30--

On Loving Long Walk

Time’s up! 4 o’clock striked! Sometimes pressure at work takes hold on me, so instead it completely eats me up, finding ways to recharge comes out naturally.

I invited a new friend by the name of Princess to grab an ice cream in a nearby Mini Stop. Instead of staying inside and looking around the gondollas with its stare-all-you-can snacks. I decided to go out with her to walk around.

While we’re both loosening up the unseemingly tightness grip of our job, I asked Princess if we could walk longer. There’s an endless joy and giddiness in me when I walk. Whether I’m alone, with someone, or with a group of crazy friends.

It makes me reflect. Reminisce. Laugh--lots of that actually. I can even invite someone to know me, get interested to other person’s life and story too.

I’m loving Ayala Triangle and Greenbelt more as it unveils the beauty of nature.

We almost talk about our family, loved-ones, importance of faith—even trivial things like our fave cartoons to movies. As we cycled those topic, work wasn’t included in the picture. The Task Master in me faded. Did I say faded for a while?

And during those precious time—it’s only me, Princess and the simplicity of life. I’m sure I could walk longer in this life’s adventure believing that friendship is far better than anything else.

Swooosh!!! How time flies. 4:30 ticks! Alright, gonna go back to work but this time with a boost spirit and mind.

Greeny sidewalk

Pangarap at Paghihintay

Noong bata ako, pangarap kong maging abugado. Lumaki raw kasi akong pilosopo sabi ni lolo. Pinag-bibigyan nya kong magpaliwanag, mag-kwento,gumawa ng sarili kong kwento, kahit kwentong barbero, pede kay lolo yun, di nya ko pagagalitan, at mag-eenjoy syang makinig. Kapag naikekwento ko sa kanya ang pangarap kong yun, di nya sinisingit ang kagustuhan nyang mag-AFP ako. Sya pa ang nag-sabi na dapat mahusay ako sa Math, kasi ang kursong dapat kunin ko ay Certified Public of Accountant (CPA)- pre course yun bago mag-abugasya. Sadyang ginalingan ko nong bata ako sa Math. Madalas matataas ang grado na nakukuha ko nong elementarya ako.

Masaya ang lolo ko sa mga grado ko lalu na sa Math—kadikit kasi yun ng pangarap ko. Pero nong nag-Highschool ako, pumurol ang utak ko sa Geometry, Statistics at Trigonometry. Totoo pala talagang mahirap ang asignaturang yun—sinisiw ko kasi dati ang Multiplication table, common denominator at fractions eh. Pero nag-iba dumagdag na ang Adjacent angle, parallel at perpendicular sabayan pa ng madalas na pag-gamit sa graphing paper. Yan ang natatanging asignaturang nagturo sa kin para mangopya tuwing may exam. Di pala dapat ako laging kumportable sa mga nangyayari sa Math life ko. (Marerealize ba yun ng 12 year old self ko, syempre hindi?)

Hanggang sa naranasan ko ng magkaroon ng 79. Perst taym yun, kaibigan! Iniyakan ko nang husto yun. Bumaha nang luha ko ang klasrum ng St. Luke, section ko nong 3rd year Highschool at kinailangan ko ng isang rolyo ng tissue sa pag-bagsak ng mga pangarap ko. Naglulupasay ako sa kakaiyak. Jowk! O.A lang, umiyak lang ako nang pahapyaw.

Buti na lang, niligtas ako ng pangalawang pangarap ko ang maging, Stage Actress.

Pag-actingin mo ko ng kung anu-ano simula seryoso hanggang nakakatawa—patok yan sa mga classmates, schoolmates at teachers ko. Siguro nga mas magiging masaya ako pag natupad yun. Kung anu-anong stage plays ang sinalihan ko-- naging tomboy ako, naging Maria sa Sound of Music, nanay, taumbayan.. Ansayang balikan nang mga ala-alang yun.

Kaso habang tumatanda ako, nagiging parte na ng buhay ko ang mga dati-rating mga pangarap ko, di man ako isang propesyunal na abugado o stage actress.

Natupad naman ang di ko man lang maisigaw at maipagmalaking gawain noon. Ang mag-sulat. Itanong mo ko kung ilang journals at diary ang meron ako sa bahay?

Ilan? Di ko kayo marinig. Ilan? Syempre di nyo alam.

Tumataginting na 10!

Bawat tao ay may panghihinayang, may lungkot, may sobrang nakakatuwa at nakakabilib na storya ng pag-pupunyagi! Yung aking storya ay simple lang, pero bumabaha ako sa pag-asa at pananalig sa taas.

Di ko man natupad na maging abugado at stage actress, naging kwentista (taga-kwenta ng mga pera),guro at manunulat naman ako. Mga magagandang propesyun na humubog sa kin. Di ko na nga rin naalala yung mga grado ko noon. Tanong uli: Kailangan ba talaga yun? Siguro, pero di batayan at sukatan ng pagkatao’t tunay na kakayanan.

Siguro di na rin pinahintulutan, kasi baka meron mas malaking nakalaan para sa kin. Isipin ko kung naging abugado ako, marahil madalas akong nakikipag-debate. Di ko gusto yung ganon kasi tatawa ako pag seryoso na ang usapan at mabulol pa ko. At kapag naging stage actress naman ako, lagi akong nakasuot nang makapal na make-up kapag may pagtatanghal. Ayoko rin naming araw-arawin yun, kasi baka magka-allergy ang fes ko’t di na ko makilala ni Mr. Right. Sa madaling salita, nag-iba na ang mga gusto ko.

Pero isa sa mga tanyag kong pangarap ay mananatili-- yun ang maging mabuting anak, kapatid, kaibigan at balang araw ay asawa’t ina-- tama ang Mabuting Ako! Sumunod na doon ang maging mahusay na manunulat at negusyante.

Sa tuwing iisipin ko kung ganu na kalaki ang sakripisyo ko sa mga taong minahal ko’t mahal ako di na ko tumitigil para ipag-patuloy ang mga nasimulan ko.

Di ko man matupad ang pagkarami-rami kong pangarap sa isang kindat, isang padyak ng paa at lunday ng buhok. Matutupad din yung iba doon pag tama na ang panahon at lugar at kapag mas napag-tibay na ng panahon ang karakter na dinesenyo para sa akin.

Ngayon, tuluy-tuloy lang ako sa paghawak sa papel at bolpen ko. Paumpisa pa lang ang pag-bubuo ko sa storya ng aking mga ilan-ilang pangarap. Hinay-hinay lang. Ngingiti, papalakpak, tatalon, sasayaw, tatambling at mag-didiwang din ang mga taong marunong mag-hintay! J

Kung hei fat choi

We went to Binondo last Monday in accordance to the Chinese lunar new year. Woah, I told you  last time that I went here before and the volume of people who attended last Monday doubled from 2010.

I was with the same folks along with Mama and Pao for 3 consecutive days. That's what this long weekend means to me-- tingling feet and hyperactiveness. Let me enumerate the places we've been to.

1. Sta. Cruz Parish church

It's a huge church across the Escolta street. In front of it is a fountain, which turns to be a resting haven for people who's gone in celebrating the festivity.

The fountain

2.  Ongpin

What to expect? a large crowd coming back and forth. I'm already geared up. Dragon dances with fire crackers shakening the pavement. Sellers pitching about the lucky charms along the way, which I bought one. Big arks telling about their beliefs. Tikoy (gummy cake) with different colors lined up on a table. Circled fruits, oranges from Sagada which awed me. really? it's a long travel. Searching for the Taoist temples along with apartments, business establishments and restaurants. Mash feet with people because of parades and photographers gorging their cameras to capture beautiful moments.

 The crowd

Dragon dance

Family fortune? might be.

incence's well

The wanderer

Tradition: make 3 bows then blow a wish

Dragon's fire

Side car driver with his 25th Chihuahua 

 Me with a 3 year old Fil-Chi girl

I still feel like I'm a tourist in my own country. Visiting Chinatown send me into a portal of rich and vital culture. Chinese people already brought their preserved culture and traditions in this hamlet.

It was a superb experience. I'm proud to be Pinay after knowing how we embrace other's culture and at the same time maintaining ours.  

3. Binondo church

This enormous, made of stones with stained glasses portraits of stations of the cross served us our resting vicinity, though there's an ongoing mass. Afterwards, we went out to look for a restaurant.

4. Maki's place

It's a small Chinese restaurant with a cool ambience and recommendable for dining in too. The food's price is cheap yet "sulit" (they'll meet your taste expectation).

 Yang chow rice

Sweet and sour fish fillet

Chicken with mushroom sauce 

Go on and a pay visit to our motherland's beautiful places. It will deepen your love for your country.

Lovely night along the Lawton bridge

Photos by  Dave and Michael