tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79706343160348910322024-03-14T15:10:08.002+08:00In Love With Sunflower...and everything admirable, inspiring and beautifulFaridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.comBlogger298125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-11114593216060953332024-02-22T16:25:00.003+08:002024-02-26T00:15:31.006+08:00 February 17-22, 2024: Laura and Aunty Ruth's Visit to the Philippines
<p style="text-align: justify;">Laura Rajaratnam Manuel, my cousin, who hails from Malaysia, first visited the Philippines when she was 18 or 19 years old together with her granny Flora (my Lola Lucy's older sister). Since then, she continued corresponding with me and the rest of our relatives. We regularly sent letters to each other via snail mail then. She also never failed to send Christmas cards during the holiday season. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBI_vwFDaPhR7RbzwT8qtcx7RLTyZ31utPDcq9L5MiftPYHIgMVv1oze28dv1Fh4UvtIROgODJkyYgH4ghOK3SK35Q_MatyFWl2ThnG8sRYKYRScQqL5Nb1mbjJbBM1J3GQU7yMzSRpgOFb86ERwyNPT_3QSV5kMGHTk_9hTh1nfZDxEF0e0Ancx7UyMT/s2040/L10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1530" data-original-width="2040" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBI_vwFDaPhR7RbzwT8qtcx7RLTyZ31utPDcq9L5MiftPYHIgMVv1oze28dv1Fh4UvtIROgODJkyYgH4ghOK3SK35Q_MatyFWl2ThnG8sRYKYRScQqL5Nb1mbjJbBM1J3GQU7yMzSRpgOFb86ERwyNPT_3QSV5kMGHTk_9hTh1nfZDxEF0e0Ancx7UyMT/w400-h300/L10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Even when Lola Flora passed away, she continued connecting with us and is updated with almost everyone here via Facebook. She would come over with her cousins or with her family multiple times throughout the years. She was here too to celebrate my great grandmother's 100th birthday in 2000.<p></p><span style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgARGrFaL7j6dKgu4vvwSIiJuyn_qv0XRd3KxXp9vN-krTjFQ9iTAx2f386cQLyyUnhBv-vhvdm35Mg19gkcgodk2tqRgDqIIOk1z6lOdotENnun-3wY0buVrnN1U8WuTO_uxk3cOJWJ5YSgUd8LOWMWMh53PniEx8g-IWfRFDhesElH4fn7Dp1FwswpzSa" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1296" data-original-width="1728" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgARGrFaL7j6dKgu4vvwSIiJuyn_qv0XRd3KxXp9vN-krTjFQ9iTAx2f386cQLyyUnhBv-vhvdm35Mg19gkcgodk2tqRgDqIIOk1z6lOdotENnun-3wY0buVrnN1U8WuTO_uxk3cOJWJ5YSgUd8LOWMWMh53PniEx8g-IWfRFDhesElH4fn7Dp1FwswpzSa=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjVKJkbGhhZdVSl-XIsz9Vw1D97-Vyu3qcTVCLWiEvmJirAQ49Q7QQCu2hUxfgIhu4xQpCOe9VCh1SKOxpGC4uMff9Zdk3SJ1PNAQ7s7e_hP50XkYb8I0x0OJbzNEtr8tv92yH-beHDV4KiQqfx9m3NvWhC0Ocyb2F929purYcuTXC5_TsuH1tgABIKR-yO" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1533" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjVKJkbGhhZdVSl-XIsz9Vw1D97-Vyu3qcTVCLWiEvmJirAQ49Q7QQCu2hUxfgIhu4xQpCOe9VCh1SKOxpGC4uMff9Zdk3SJ1PNAQ7s7e_hP50XkYb8I0x0OJbzNEtr8tv92yH-beHDV4KiQqfx9m3NvWhC0Ocyb2F929purYcuTXC5_TsuH1tgABIKR-yO=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;">It was also during this trip of theirs that I learned why some of my grandmother's siblings live permanently in Malaysia (three of them) while the rest went back to the Philippines (six). It was also interesting to know the lineage of her husband's mother - Thai and Scottish, and his father, an Indian. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiNljeUoWiIkXsds5WVLcRFR3ymF6wSwdYVK-I5cJBr8KN-slRHmSN1lQa5iBmVpZEuuxFGelOGQO1miT7FVLhuy1E-SxNHos_gVt-MQYVB0yUMms5uQYLGYbjguWa_tr0P9HX0V0IF4MScmlmpkG1thIcZg4tVYVsB1FsupVfrJlWG9A6P5pZ3d3j07NoU" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1533" data-original-width="2048" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiNljeUoWiIkXsds5WVLcRFR3ymF6wSwdYVK-I5cJBr8KN-slRHmSN1lQa5iBmVpZEuuxFGelOGQO1miT7FVLhuy1E-SxNHos_gVt-MQYVB0yUMms5uQYLGYbjguWa_tr0P9HX0V0IF4MScmlmpkG1thIcZg4tVYVsB1FsupVfrJlWG9A6P5pZ3d3j07NoU" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_17AY1QLUB_K0YX6mwuuyDt_RQICaq0kwYnEYxL4X6AsaD82KfUF8wcVGLZwSZ-EyabxfELiVGB2CcPnHrHLC31_RIJR5CDKbpFXbEa-WZw7LIuQXQxZszWChG4YKtHjrv5cpMxM9mM6qbH6VlkjPrDV_KMdv4kEZZplKH940cQtQfPRHIOgfJClSYgSA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1296" data-original-width="1728" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_17AY1QLUB_K0YX6mwuuyDt_RQICaq0kwYnEYxL4X6AsaD82KfUF8wcVGLZwSZ-EyabxfELiVGB2CcPnHrHLC31_RIJR5CDKbpFXbEa-WZw7LIuQXQxZszWChG4YKtHjrv5cpMxM9mM6qbH6VlkjPrDV_KMdv4kEZZplKH940cQtQfPRHIOgfJClSYgSA=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><span style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I'm a year younger than her. Because we are more mature this time, we bonded by sharing personal things ladies our age experience. We talked about our love for food, the importance of staying healthy, and everything under the sun in between giggles and laughter. She too misses writing because everything is digital now. Admittedly, I am a person who is comfortable being alone. There are 101 things I can do at home. I have a job and the many interests that preoccupies me. Her exemplary ways of staying in touch is something I will try to emulate. May God bless her heart! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: right;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: right;"> </span></div></span></div><p></p>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-41985239767908957182023-05-19T18:46:00.163+08:002023-06-30T20:10:43.140+08:00Pahiyas Festival 2023<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPWv1yCtI8EF3zk5ygS6KRiUgr9Diq6ljAJkEXaMam77d5MkknxLdi53BQkAg86R7qvNDWZemyt5H6A8GKg_BhPLI1UCJtAvJKtQA0W7m3FGefbxLvzO1mzZ0TyFY1G1TedrdReOP-GUjzsw9Kw7gNV0TpOXrYBJ2OYN77WCzKv6aCNaD441qYNYv9_g/s1152/1684488468776.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="1152" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPWv1yCtI8EF3zk5ygS6KRiUgr9Diq6ljAJkEXaMam77d5MkknxLdi53BQkAg86R7qvNDWZemyt5H6A8GKg_BhPLI1UCJtAvJKtQA0W7m3FGefbxLvzO1mzZ0TyFY1G1TedrdReOP-GUjzsw9Kw7gNV0TpOXrYBJ2OYN77WCzKv6aCNaD441qYNYv9_g/w400-h300/1684488468776.JPEG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_4EDUclFXi58epfTxngllruHWt8upzxKw7D55Seu3vlpf8oWkNOuceCE4udQPckfbyKVl-0fO8XXRKkLGjTY6zNi1P3Ou4IEqO7CT5naQ869-Fus8EzkfU3VmsiBJUX5Jc8bAa0Setn5Y6w8A3oNbWMEKfvRCcBKKrXX1wA9n3I1nGP-z_uCCrPj1A/s1080/1684490413979.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="809" data-original-width="1080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_4EDUclFXi58epfTxngllruHWt8upzxKw7D55Seu3vlpf8oWkNOuceCE4udQPckfbyKVl-0fO8XXRKkLGjTY6zNi1P3Ou4IEqO7CT5naQ869-Fus8EzkfU3VmsiBJUX5Jc8bAa0Setn5Y6w8A3oNbWMEKfvRCcBKKrXX1wA9n3I1nGP-z_uCCrPj1A/w400-h300/1684490413979.JPEG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><div>Pahiyas Festival in Lucban, Quezon was once again celebrated after a three year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic last May 15, 2023. It was also our second time to witness this festivity and was my first out-of-town drive this year. (My first Pahiyas festival experience <a href="https://inlovewithsunflower.blogspot.com/2015/05/pahiyas-festival-2015-fascinated-with.html">here</a>).</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Admittedly, I love everything about nature. I was exhilarated to see the rice fields, the lush trees from the mountains and the lake. We took the Marilaque Hiway route which consisted of many uphill, downhill, and zigzag roads. There were interesting shops along the thoroughfare that promoted the various towns' products. Fresh fruits, a native delicacy called "bibingka," wood crafts, barong tagalog, to name a few were sold. We also passed through some restaurants that were known for their food.<br /><br /><br />I was happy to witness the various tourists - young, young-at-heart, locals, foreigners and those in-between. Like us, they too were eager to view the intricately decorated houses with crops. To encourage the residents to join and "dress" their homes, monetary rewards were given by the sponsors. It was a good way to boost tourism and the town's economy. We managed to bring home some of their delicacies like the longganiza and cookies from Pavino's. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>The drive was a refreshment to my parents. My father had three procedures for his posterior cataract removal recently. His medical journey lasted for seven months. The doctors' clinic (opthalmologist and internist) were the places he frequented then. </div><div><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-54882975326806240022023-03-13T14:55:00.004+08:002023-03-13T14:55:14.363+08:00The Harsh Reality of Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMR1KNf269fGwm5ZAxG6v75WAGML6PXpl9vXqfoWNBUk5d7N8yzbhcyWT3OypakY6sb5SSzkf7Y2ENMKVwEIpxVcjEBO_tzDPsjwUZ1dSVYeTN8LxETwWmSLKvrgcuEAbpTiY1ArSR5Vi_UZhNnbCAqpRWExjJ9be2OnLuKLDUn0yPjt8zS7jK6o5iXg/s1819/331240179_1657739234741237_9081136316822711548_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1140" data-original-width="1819" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMR1KNf269fGwm5ZAxG6v75WAGML6PXpl9vXqfoWNBUk5d7N8yzbhcyWT3OypakY6sb5SSzkf7Y2ENMKVwEIpxVcjEBO_tzDPsjwUZ1dSVYeTN8LxETwWmSLKvrgcuEAbpTiY1ArSR5Vi_UZhNnbCAqpRWExjJ9be2OnLuKLDUn0yPjt8zS7jK6o5iXg/w400-h251/331240179_1657739234741237_9081136316822711548_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqAWoYVdYaUr2ZZ6TDDZ2qqIWys22g9pERfon6w012OyUURRyF4VshiAWY30wf03kHDu2K4UleC_oEErdd0aD1SiH4eMGKqOz4olYM8HpKjr7VeNxqnVUmmAIL_1x75bTCMqJerxqGFkuKFNqKaTftgPrW4uq9OUuweLxu63MPfzk-0Wef7czcz-lXPg/s2048/335447670_150563874555002_9052399920210066669_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1533" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqAWoYVdYaUr2ZZ6TDDZ2qqIWys22g9pERfon6w012OyUURRyF4VshiAWY30wf03kHDu2K4UleC_oEErdd0aD1SiH4eMGKqOz4olYM8HpKjr7VeNxqnVUmmAIL_1x75bTCMqJerxqGFkuKFNqKaTftgPrW4uq9OUuweLxu63MPfzk-0Wef7czcz-lXPg/w400-h300/335447670_150563874555002_9052399920210066669_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh0x-NkX3yI1EkGCWYd_qKDyTicPlFkB3Mo8811-0euPNtWg7Fa0O76tfdtMlFlp9N8gnWrnQ7bdYSVy-h2rd-zFOShNnPY9pwhNVZoZt1ID___KV3FwnGY3dbWdAULGVX7RvVeaJNKTpVp_LhMlNUWab98Ym8ojGmJ0cnIF0rpQCeLy3RDPU_pQ_ANg/s2047/334915095_755631896272402_4545368227987371875_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1071" data-original-width="2047" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh0x-NkX3yI1EkGCWYd_qKDyTicPlFkB3Mo8811-0euPNtWg7Fa0O76tfdtMlFlp9N8gnWrnQ7bdYSVy-h2rd-zFOShNnPY9pwhNVZoZt1ID___KV3FwnGY3dbWdAULGVX7RvVeaJNKTpVp_LhMlNUWab98Ym8ojGmJ0cnIF0rpQCeLy3RDPU_pQ_ANg/w400-h209/334915095_755631896272402_4545368227987371875_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xdj266r x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18.75px; margin: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Our lives here on earth is momentary. Three family members of the people we know passed away this month.</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18.75px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">The world dictates - accumulate material things, work hard for your aspirations, or do whatever you love. As a Christian, I am reminded to set my affections on things above, to prioritize God's mandates, and to please Him at all times.</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div></div><div><br /></div></div>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-63403572556278102302023-03-06T22:07:00.003+08:002023-03-13T14:49:15.738+08:00Touched By Their Lives<div style="text-align: justify;">It's been more than 10 years since I started working from home. Surprisingly, I am loving it. I need not wake up so early to prepare for work nor beat the horrendous traffic daily. I can also save more by eating the home cooked meals my mother prepares which is nutritious, too. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The downside is, my network has become very small. I am also not so keen at keeping in touch with my former colleagues nor classmates. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">At church, however, there is a handful of people I regularly have interactions with. Through their life stories, I have become more grateful; perhaps, even emerged as a better person. Their stories I am sharing below to inspire.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">J, now 23 years old was only 16 when she was forced to live independently after her father drove her out of their house. Her religious convictions to be faithful to God was the reason, which the latter abhorred. To date, God continues to sustain her needs - she has a stable job and was recently promoted. Her determination to finish college is one of her priorities and manages to complete two or three subjects quarterly. As the eldest in their family, she takes the responsibility of sending her siblings to school and supports them financially!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">D's faith was tried after his father, a pastor, was involved in a scandal. Despite the embarrassment and anxiety she faced, she overcame the past with godly associations and heeded their counsel. She too is self-supporting. Her commitment to serve is admirable. She allots her Saturdays at the newest mission site to help. She is part of two ministries and her zest for life is contagious!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">JT was a member of a tribal group and dreamed of having tertiary education. He also yearned to be a missionary at a very young age. To date, he is a professional teacher (license holder) and is one of the trusted men who delivers the word of God whenever our pastor has speaking engagements elsewhere. </div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Their backgrounds were tough, choices were right and present circumstances praiseworthy. I am blessed to have witnessed their growth as an individual, have seen their careers blossom, more so, their journey towards spiritual maturity. They have touched my life and I pray yours, too.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><br /></div>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-35023636415435156392023-02-27T22:49:00.008+08:002023-03-13T14:48:38.535+08:00Rizal: My Top 3 Destinations <div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xdj266r x126k92a" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word;"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Segoe UI Historic, Segoe UI, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #050505;"><span style="font-size: 18.75px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rizal boasts of beautiful places far different from the concrete buildings, traffic, and noise of a city. You need not travel up north to experience the cool breeze nor to a faraway place to distress. I've been to several sites in the past and my top favorites are the following:</span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Segoe UI Historic, Segoe UI, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #050505;"><span style="font-size: 18.75px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Segoe UI Historic, Segoe UI, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #050505;"><span style="font-size: 18.75px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div dir="auto"><span face="Segoe UI Historic, Segoe UI, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #050505;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 18.75px; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYwBv8sPQUrLHxVNDSIqvR3b-Hb8tZNTl9smPO2jhtLCeZx2LO0vI3GpQ-mPd2vrv5dd50je4M2rGlSdBph8eIrj9KiLZ-d3i5ZF5I2B-hsnzaaLUQ7PJ6_RLJmyiOO4yVyKvAFDbmlOB2tracUfBZvravfM1g6WtEAs5Gb7drilBsZV8RA351dKpIEA/s2048/LIttle%20Baguio.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYwBv8sPQUrLHxVNDSIqvR3b-Hb8tZNTl9smPO2jhtLCeZx2LO0vI3GpQ-mPd2vrv5dd50je4M2rGlSdBph8eIrj9KiLZ-d3i5ZF5I2B-hsnzaaLUQ7PJ6_RLJmyiOO4yVyKvAFDbmlOB2tracUfBZvravfM1g6WtEAs5Gb7drilBsZV8RA351dKpIEA/w400-h300/LIttle%20Baguio.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font-size: 18.75px; text-align: justify; white-space: pre-wrap;">1. Little Baguio of Antipolo</div><div style="font-size: 18.75px; text-align: justify; white-space: pre-wrap;">The road - very charming with tall and lush pine trees lined up on both sides of the two-kilometer (or so) stretch. My eyes were delighted to witness a view I don't get to see on a daily basis. My ears were happy at the sound of cicadas as if they were welcoming us once I lowered the vehicle's side window. The air, cool, although the sky abounded with feathery clouds.</div></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #050505; font-size: 18.75px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #050505; font-size: 18.75px; white-space: pre-wrap;">We learned that the the Araneta's own the property. It's an added attraction to those who prefer to discover and reconnect with nature (rather than the usual trip to the mall) and was only open to the public this pandemic. </span></div><div dir="auto"><span face="Segoe UI Historic, Segoe UI, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #050505;"><span style="font-size: 18.75px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<br /></span></span></div><div dir="auto"><span face="Segoe UI Historic, Segoe UI, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #050505;"><span style="font-size: 18.75px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJJ-IVeTrpl_wyel1dbChp0rE-_hdZD-hqlWcc0urtDJpQcaEJ5UC2inpNELAuvz_HqV6E_xdOGGOxMoaFI-OzVwz54eEHWqhR5rhxfpgwyKM4khCFu7Glrf_E5rnhmbErnPk2Uin8yT46AoNIPJihaNJUdn_r24mmlJXyEXCqDIR4JwElFz9iomqTw/s1600/Martessem.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJJ-IVeTrpl_wyel1dbChp0rE-_hdZD-hqlWcc0urtDJpQcaEJ5UC2inpNELAuvz_HqV6E_xdOGGOxMoaFI-OzVwz54eEHWqhR5rhxfpgwyKM4khCFu7Glrf_E5rnhmbErnPk2Uin8yT46AoNIPJihaNJUdn_r24mmlJXyEXCqDIR4JwElFz9iomqTw/w400-h300/Martessem.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">2. Martessem Resort </div><div style="text-align: justify;">The picturesque view of the Sierra Madre is best viewed here. Guests can dine in their restaurant, book a room for a staycation, and enjoy activities like swimming, horseback riding, and fish feeding.
Martessem Ressort <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MartessemResort/about">FB Page</a></div>
<br /></span></span></div><div dir="auto"><span face="Segoe UI Historic, Segoe UI, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #050505;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 18.75px; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-uejs8MdvBDF5mN60VM7pNXHjziR7IbXdm_Wf_1bAQk79gQdx8Uv3hiFNnW5q5WRQr4E0bdeF8do3VlK7-Q3nLZQ2TPIob-0ua7Kjp0UdbbeQckXZ6kQRwP6L10rNQRcC1weGRO3K-2Ymej6u9BeJL5kH1HgJYkmjjx6EakVKx8Ol87JFZ4AxrNffQ/s4608/tanay%20highlands.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-uejs8MdvBDF5mN60VM7pNXHjziR7IbXdm_Wf_1bAQk79gQdx8Uv3hiFNnW5q5WRQr4E0bdeF8do3VlK7-Q3nLZQ2TPIob-0ua7Kjp0UdbbeQckXZ6kQRwP6L10rNQRcC1weGRO3K-2Ymej6u9BeJL5kH1HgJYkmjjx6EakVKx8Ol87JFZ4AxrNffQ/w400-h300/tanay%20highlands.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font-size: 18.75px; text-align: justify; white-space: pre-wrap;">3. Tanay Highlands </div><div style="font-size: 18.75px; text-align: justify; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is the perfect place to admire the magnificence of Pililia windmills, Laguna de Bay and part of Sierra Madre. Admittedly, I am not only in awe but in love. It is arguably the best restaurant with a scenic view! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 18.75px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Segoe UI Historic, Segoe UI, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #050505;"><span style="font-size: 18.75px; white-space: pre-wrap;">We heard that it opened on November 2021. A group of college graduates own the place and is still in the process of improving the dining area as well as their menu. Parking will never be a problem; an ample and secure space is provided.
Tanay Highlands <a href="https://www.facebook.com/tanayhighlands/about">FB Page</a></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Segoe UI Historic, Segoe UI, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #050505;"><span style="font-size: 18.75px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Segoe UI Historic, Segoe UI, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #050505;"><span style="font-size: 18.75px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div></div>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-70851019252124605832023-02-02T19:43:00.004+08:002023-02-09T19:12:35.217+08:00C6 Road <p style="text-align: justify;">Security Guard: <i>Saan po kayo?</i></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Me: <i>Interesado po kaming tumingin ng properties</i> (pretended to be a buyer).</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Security Guard: <i>Diretso lang po. Pagkatapos ng 1.5 km kaliwa kayo. May mga ahente doon.</i></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">And the adventure began.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Our curiosity to see what laid beyond C6 Road Batasan San Mateo brought us to Timberland Highlands Resort. Our eyes feasted on the beauty of the scenery - the cityscape that was truly captivating and breathtaking! The road was also a far cry from the congestion in the metropolis. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The road trip, though brief was refreshing. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAxIJUQnK66BzZ1ABtkwl3Iq-owLL6F39oPpayxjNAcWMpF4E_8VjRPb2udaSBcUONxySXh-eJ_PXJfkTHC-FnrRXZMud6NXedg-_nKBJ9U9Mb3a3bVoAsUlP1JPGcH6vLJr6tMfjdq6eNgMZjmOiUvzPNagArdAWi0nh0m8daVU8Nct_HNjKdfc7X7w/s4608/IMG20230129141431.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAxIJUQnK66BzZ1ABtkwl3Iq-owLL6F39oPpayxjNAcWMpF4E_8VjRPb2udaSBcUONxySXh-eJ_PXJfkTHC-FnrRXZMud6NXedg-_nKBJ9U9Mb3a3bVoAsUlP1JPGcH6vLJr6tMfjdq6eNgMZjmOiUvzPNagArdAWi0nh0m8daVU8Nct_HNjKdfc7X7w/w400-h300/IMG20230129141431.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdCCXHKUjzL_gVCA6fA_76Qmbzsf1V2_fzRB98GUUSk9Sv_lwTJKc37tRFuD9n1QEGqEzMHFuw4-ZLOxDz082wrMjywSfFniibZ0LvaeG0tI-NbaFTidr4eNULKgyWNU_G-dOcEoBa19LJISjC32R3i-vvDJiasDkxasI-6JFNWulRDjwWKiO3Rg910g/s4608/IMG20230129140611.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdCCXHKUjzL_gVCA6fA_76Qmbzsf1V2_fzRB98GUUSk9Sv_lwTJKc37tRFuD9n1QEGqEzMHFuw4-ZLOxDz082wrMjywSfFniibZ0LvaeG0tI-NbaFTidr4eNULKgyWNU_G-dOcEoBa19LJISjC32R3i-vvDJiasDkxasI-6JFNWulRDjwWKiO3Rg910g/w400-h300/IMG20230129140611.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBCZRnh1RHVKKjWuKsnhA1lyY1-aXkt74hOQoKtRpdryxSmSgCzr9TO9Q-wR39K-f1aYCNK6U6P1tEjIj3LQlBTWuAADVTdD9tqtIzrrf1UkjQ3Mt1Yw_-KDRw_h7zeIvh1afjWNQRp07OskZxZYZOsLusQ49DXDW6q9rpRhr8hDApFlyOf_FW0XdHGg/s2936/IMG_20230129_151145.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2936" data-original-width="2054" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBCZRnh1RHVKKjWuKsnhA1lyY1-aXkt74hOQoKtRpdryxSmSgCzr9TO9Q-wR39K-f1aYCNK6U6P1tEjIj3LQlBTWuAADVTdD9tqtIzrrf1UkjQ3Mt1Yw_-KDRw_h7zeIvh1afjWNQRp07OskZxZYZOsLusQ49DXDW6q9rpRhr8hDApFlyOf_FW0XdHGg/w280-h400/IMG_20230129_151145.jpg" width="280" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQlKQa__QkZf-4Ze-8RX_kVaRLrAVKEbZnKG4hpMYEPO9bIc009-YyFxw5Quc_PCZXwFxwWvIn1rX03PoJFvebw7av5hKkfINwFGAw5KpgYU22ug-uuFo6qysV-JOYpLlGZf4zWnV6F49PKgJcPptJKYyj-zaSp_8aGyQSkB0TSLw6QdvTM1SnPXw2ew/s5760/IMG20230129135140.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4312" data-original-width="5760" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQlKQa__QkZf-4Ze-8RX_kVaRLrAVKEbZnKG4hpMYEPO9bIc009-YyFxw5Quc_PCZXwFxwWvIn1rX03PoJFvebw7av5hKkfINwFGAw5KpgYU22ug-uuFo6qysV-JOYpLlGZf4zWnV6F49PKgJcPptJKYyj-zaSp_8aGyQSkB0TSLw6QdvTM1SnPXw2ew/w400-h300/IMG20230129135140.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Website: <a href="https://timberlandresort.com/">Timberland Highlands Resort</a></div>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-65571600776358017282023-01-14T15:53:00.007+08:002023-01-16T10:55:59.576+08:00Five<p style="text-align: justify;">"How long have you been teaching? Your Lesson Satisfaction Score (LSS) is very high," was my student's remark during a short conversation, right after completing the lesson. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p>Alright.</p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">True enough, after checking the metrics, I saw the five star rating for the month of January 2023. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Little does he know that behind the perfect score is the many years of experience I have had as an English for Second Language (ESL) tutor. I have patiently reviewed and studied the details on how to teach every learning material, how to properly begin a class, how to transition from an exercise to the next, how to correct a grammar mistake or mispronounced word, and to appropriately give an encouraging feedback. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Most importantly, speaking slowly, using easy to understand vocabularies, knowing the subject, and focusing during the lessons are crucial.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The downside - I miss my regular and repeating students. The perks - no financial gain but my open lesson slots will be instantly booked. On hindsight, it is truly rewarding when my efforts are appreciated. Also, 1 Corinthians 10:31 is a great reminder for us to do our best all the time.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpqB4rvE3VqeJCyq3PJJv8ERGgE0T_0SKkLAtT55fxxHvAMv5ov8yxxFeIDgXVbyo0nvj0-NYEIjMkru8wrYgYjT3ZXoBdSLkosIftH4lbYcnnqgo7sJzYLWnIFTCY0nx9xQz7PGcnDw9jc6aHGnogBIQFNsqWEPw6zi5iiYn47jJdbQrET0RgE7QXFg/s1079/IMG_20230114_160032.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="697" data-original-width="1079" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpqB4rvE3VqeJCyq3PJJv8ERGgE0T_0SKkLAtT55fxxHvAMv5ov8yxxFeIDgXVbyo0nvj0-NYEIjMkru8wrYgYjT3ZXoBdSLkosIftH4lbYcnnqgo7sJzYLWnIFTCY0nx9xQz7PGcnDw9jc6aHGnogBIQFNsqWEPw6zi5iiYn47jJdbQrET0RgE7QXFg/w400-h259/IMG_20230114_160032.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCHfQTyd_iffQEqN6FzNORXZmcBuf_pfGoqTIK8u5hJ_wvK1FAtMoFa2TxAHy_6w9Li8_s9DWj8lLU4xPO2oaDB2uRsjyFqBFmsYSwbomrE5L5K6lGTtxlwFRr5TJrz802KQeyrpVQnkrWfOHjPrzz0dILYYtxiciAECTll0w_CZbXBUeNrPrTCtSLQg/s1932/IMG_20230114_155512.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1932" data-original-width="1079" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCHfQTyd_iffQEqN6FzNORXZmcBuf_pfGoqTIK8u5hJ_wvK1FAtMoFa2TxAHy_6w9Li8_s9DWj8lLU4xPO2oaDB2uRsjyFqBFmsYSwbomrE5L5K6lGTtxlwFRr5TJrz802KQeyrpVQnkrWfOHjPrzz0dILYYtxiciAECTll0w_CZbXBUeNrPrTCtSLQg/w224-h400/IMG_20230114_155512.jpg" width="224" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-61765167940413904872023-01-02T18:39:00.003+08:002023-01-02T18:40:16.986+08:00Trust The Process<p><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: inherit; font-size: 18.75px; white-space: pre-wrap;">"He hath made every thing beautiful in His time" is a verse from Ecclesiastes 3:11 I resonate with.</span></p><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18.75px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">My 26 years as a paraplegic due to spinal cord injury is a perplexity I will continue to marvel at over and over again. The myriad challenges attached to my acquired disability may be discouraging, life-threatening to some extent, and literally paralyzing. However, God's sustaining grace and faithfulness will suffice to compel me to go through.</div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18.75px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">May we all continue to run the <span style="font-family: inherit;"><a style="color: #385898; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit;" tabindex="-1"></a></span>race with patience, joy and courage this 2023 (Hebrews 12:1-2).</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibc5DJ29f7ov7gcayp73t4LRYpLujBLv4ziQCNo8mpBGcjTv3Wb9Zjn-9FgGMgqXcdFOt7zgJAJZYB6PpRIXsnxvUU0soMmRnw5dVHjjrzOyyJS44FNpaBMN4ItLlfvuFgKzfOPg_npUcnLG_-XGCjmszjIZPibVi8vMx-hvzIdvPIHZSa-MGs5kxWDA/s1600/IMG_20230102_151105.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibc5DJ29f7ov7gcayp73t4LRYpLujBLv4ziQCNo8mpBGcjTv3Wb9Zjn-9FgGMgqXcdFOt7zgJAJZYB6PpRIXsnxvUU0soMmRnw5dVHjjrzOyyJS44FNpaBMN4ItLlfvuFgKzfOPg_npUcnLG_-XGCjmszjIZPibVi8vMx-hvzIdvPIHZSa-MGs5kxWDA/w400-h240/IMG_20230102_151105.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9idKfPDTTRDtsFGCZ6X7UYXBZjTKGhHAupaFQ5nQSkNFSgLX8qTtSBUsoyqHzxhTV3KHSPAnODLaBb6HeWkhaBaPLIES40ODBtAre9F1alV0iWCSAUwW5CpzSTk2pLisnlEcNLwmK7F0wgPwyTxDi-22Mk6zKLpWg8vTfYCTZyz8maHT0v8qGj8jMw/s1600/IMG_20230102_183756.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="980" data-original-width="1600" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9idKfPDTTRDtsFGCZ6X7UYXBZjTKGhHAupaFQ5nQSkNFSgLX8qTtSBUsoyqHzxhTV3KHSPAnODLaBb6HeWkhaBaPLIES40ODBtAre9F1alV0iWCSAUwW5CpzSTk2pLisnlEcNLwmK7F0wgPwyTxDi-22Mk6zKLpWg8vTfYCTZyz8maHT0v8qGj8jMw/w400-h245/IMG_20230102_183756.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div></div>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-29844699379389601972022-10-29T01:21:00.004+08:002022-11-11T19:00:41.281+08:00Vantage Point Of A Responsible Dog Owner<p style="text-align: justify;">It was decades ago when my grandmother's dog died, a pekinese, that looked like a living carpet! It's fur was really soft and long. It was overweight yet everybody thought it was cute! Back then, I remembered how gentle and friendly it was. I played regularly with it but never knew how to properly care for it.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Last month, Savy, the pet dog of my nephew O and niece N died. It was brought to the veterinary quite late. Unfortunately, I saw its health regressing. Probably for three months, he had difficulty peeing. Small amounts of urine came out very slowly for a long period of time. It also didn't have appetite and eventually stopped eating days before it was brought to the vet. It had kidney stones blocking in the urethra! His laboratory results were very critical too. When the catheter was inserted, the kidney stones went to its bladder and it was not able to withstand the trauma. It was painful to witness such event.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Being a responsible pet owner entails so much more than just feeding, playing and grooming the animal. I learned the following:</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">1. Like humans, it needs a good diet to avoid getting all sort of illnesses especially when it becomes a senior.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">2. One has to be very keen with its emotions to understand how they feel. It gets excited, sad, loved or angry like you.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">3. Physical activity is a must. When it becomes older, the play time can be shorter to avoid tiring the dog.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">4. Yearly visit to the veterinarian is important to monitor its health and to understand what foods are harmful.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">There are many more helpful tips from Google. With the necessary knowledge, our beloved pets can extend its life and continue to bring joy and comfort to our families. We'll miss you, Savy!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPNJqW7cpYtWigTRtafCMG_sPoQ4OesYQ7ycqA5PuAfX4kHrIdbJ-7Rv_tiNDaIXCsta1DSijY1TXWpSF_2SyiZannX7IC-m_a9topJYWLXUvbpuq0SLKGOCBUO3FP0CLCXrlTpN5b6yyZycX0K5AocH0NP-b_JV1TGLezIGs8gNfgpa0qvUrcFmHkwA/s4608/IMG20221015151812.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPNJqW7cpYtWigTRtafCMG_sPoQ4OesYQ7ycqA5PuAfX4kHrIdbJ-7Rv_tiNDaIXCsta1DSijY1TXWpSF_2SyiZannX7IC-m_a9topJYWLXUvbpuq0SLKGOCBUO3FP0CLCXrlTpN5b6yyZycX0K5AocH0NP-b_JV1TGLezIGs8gNfgpa0qvUrcFmHkwA/w400-h300/IMG20221015151812.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIBBEVDgkspIxyY3XUo4VX0XolErD1fRt3FFyZ-KYbIJ4km2NcEwBeLu7BMswntfvZZeDCq6k374SxvekOaS7k6JSVwo0VFKTP-o9s2VVQrUJapqcPyhjQF0SSicuHhP46orHcqKzpD76SOIuE9Q-eb_9bJ8CnbAfUAy7X3xRwK2pn3LgDAE3anBordQ/s1376/received_656445725874011%20(1).jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1376" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIBBEVDgkspIxyY3XUo4VX0XolErD1fRt3FFyZ-KYbIJ4km2NcEwBeLu7BMswntfvZZeDCq6k374SxvekOaS7k6JSVwo0VFKTP-o9s2VVQrUJapqcPyhjQF0SSicuHhP46orHcqKzpD76SOIuE9Q-eb_9bJ8CnbAfUAy7X3xRwK2pn3LgDAE3anBordQ/w298-h400/received_656445725874011%20(1).jpeg" width="298" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22XyA6F1g8GNAmdLLKWH6Iv3yMx_uMqUNKncHFRBFJZXc0PS57V_HWRuOucgMHdPbwHXwAvrBc6HhTssKAe8n6JUsgHL8yePNAxcF-IPwAsrtCF-VyBAOm_FpqIUBq9Tfk7i2R0wJXJpzfDoYG6_JKWjmQsn5G7UrkVmYj_wcRReI1SJB2koJxMP8YA/s1499/received_3206763596229957.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1499" data-original-width="1124" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22XyA6F1g8GNAmdLLKWH6Iv3yMx_uMqUNKncHFRBFJZXc0PS57V_HWRuOucgMHdPbwHXwAvrBc6HhTssKAe8n6JUsgHL8yePNAxcF-IPwAsrtCF-VyBAOm_FpqIUBq9Tfk7i2R0wJXJpzfDoYG6_JKWjmQsn5G7UrkVmYj_wcRReI1SJB2koJxMP8YA/w300-h400/received_3206763596229957.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFRgvVRuLw3MrQbnrARqCEF5fhLVz5249ILNQ3QaR2QibUxqiZTkKhEwKa7qwVoM5mXT04ghQzDZoZcUVH465885EUZTDVk0w1u418cFrQ5ZhgMX2SJpyt3UJSYrIIl6bguVyvE5Eqp2HxXccChoy8LBviN2172RpZ1wbxpaUxpRPthCWCflIFsOwlA/s2016/received_855607292272733.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1504" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFRgvVRuLw3MrQbnrARqCEF5fhLVz5249ILNQ3QaR2QibUxqiZTkKhEwKa7qwVoM5mXT04ghQzDZoZcUVH465885EUZTDVk0w1u418cFrQ5ZhgMX2SJpyt3UJSYrIIl6bguVyvE5Eqp2HxXccChoy8LBviN2172RpZ1wbxpaUxpRPthCWCflIFsOwlA/w299-h400/received_855607292272733.jpeg" width="299" /></a></div><br />Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-18902564157403610842022-09-26T17:49:00.009+08:002023-01-05T11:58:00.973+08:00Tatay Cito: Productive Elderly <p style="text-align: justify;">It was an unusual scenario for me to witness a group of elderly men who were still physically strong, were mentally capable and were willing to work to earn a decent living.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">At John Wilkie Bicycle Shop along J.P. Rizal in Marikina City, Tatay Cito, an experienced and veteran bike tinker, replaced my existing pneumatic wheelchair tires with my spare and inflated those with 100 psi!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Those seniors began working when the bicycle shop started its operations in 1983. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the growing demand for bicycles, the business even flourished. It is a one-stop shop that offers an assortment of bicycles, parts, accessories and services. </p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">More often than not, old age is associated to laziness as the individual mellows in his activities, until deterioration in all aspects of his life become more evident (i.e. problem solving skills, decision making, etc.).</p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Instead of lazing around their homes, begging on the roads or being dependent to their children, they are continuously sowing and making many (like myself who need their skill) happy! </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv3uYd-lKINYCKBMFLCXorlN9v8B7qxILZ2DXDS_3mLxAN81i3-8vzhGNbvsc1JSvvBVC5qvFW3oNTdUSDB-J-dT3jRcLJkYYTOJNGJhDaE90b4gK6rgijuxf2pcbYINUd4Ltx018K-x68kWiUd0i2nDEYkWcUftvj3al0XTHKLTEMH0CzTbXf7xWjow/s4095/IMG_20220926_175158.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2547" data-original-width="4095" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv3uYd-lKINYCKBMFLCXorlN9v8B7qxILZ2DXDS_3mLxAN81i3-8vzhGNbvsc1JSvvBVC5qvFW3oNTdUSDB-J-dT3jRcLJkYYTOJNGJhDaE90b4gK6rgijuxf2pcbYINUd4Ltx018K-x68kWiUd0i2nDEYkWcUftvj3al0XTHKLTEMH0CzTbXf7xWjow/w400-h249/IMG_20220926_175158.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiZUYQVPAJPhYH0fQQ78vwjMsc5ZnN7Nn4USwruoXi9ejpGrSR0qXlcxPM9z5WJtXHyK4Hv4Jghtaa_mkKF6hOn2uk4QL0GNFzGbODv8tMpASGvg4af1VkUJp-r_NF8zxxR1wwuG2tn9JogaWNtrJdGysYTDLKECIJoWVjtlUlmavSzmP8GkWhxHYA9g/s4608/IMG20220926134151.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiZUYQVPAJPhYH0fQQ78vwjMsc5ZnN7Nn4USwruoXi9ejpGrSR0qXlcxPM9z5WJtXHyK4Hv4Jghtaa_mkKF6hOn2uk4QL0GNFzGbODv8tMpASGvg4af1VkUJp-r_NF8zxxR1wwuG2tn9JogaWNtrJdGysYTDLKECIJoWVjtlUlmavSzmP8GkWhxHYA9g/w400-h300/IMG20220926134151.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: justify;">These snapshots were taken while I remained in the vehicle. It was both endearing and surprising to witness the skill displayed by Tatay Cito! </p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: left;">FB Page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057758885454">John Wilkie Bicycle Shop &nbsp
</a> </p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-90860288880326145352022-08-30T19:22:00.003+08:002022-08-30T19:45:24.224+08:00Farida: Descriptive Words Aptly Describing Her<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTGbWOlPGv_gqDaO3LQJbVRWose5-RxazpFRLWaT7csBBfRke_x9vX-pSbqXYWCJzXFOJPSNGEIT0TQl4uwk8RrQvDiXBGfJeTRFusoGxzSHeA-2OlLgw-riXGnXqSMGp4PoinE8q-fTl8SUH1uTmPTj24Tg2cTJqLaO38MVnBSMpl6XV87MSiXtc29g/s640/pluviophile-lover-of-rain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="492" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTGbWOlPGv_gqDaO3LQJbVRWose5-RxazpFRLWaT7csBBfRke_x9vX-pSbqXYWCJzXFOJPSNGEIT0TQl4uwk8RrQvDiXBGfJeTRFusoGxzSHeA-2OlLgw-riXGnXqSMGp4PoinE8q-fTl8SUH1uTmPTj24Tg2cTJqLaO38MVnBSMpl6XV87MSiXtc29g/w308-h400/pluviophile-lover-of-rain.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Photo from <a href="http://myjoyfortheday.blogspot.com/2013/09/someone-who-finds-joy-and-peace-of-mind.html" target="_blank">My Joy For The Day</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdDBSJOSJ67mgT_PLFAy6S5HC4fSB0f4KPjE-nRssAHGFG_7SBDfcMO1FO4w1LWncKP_hYpwrRV6v7XkGT_SSQxM7vVvWrCWGEKXpWKMC50Tq_eGU2STlvKU0h2DEE9W_yV-e2mTnOn-IkoaP3UxxrQT8go2bpjznwdCH_RCpllgnfR36qBzPc1iclQ/s705/fdb8db8aff81100b2f8dc67337b40a5a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="705" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdDBSJOSJ67mgT_PLFAy6S5HC4fSB0f4KPjE-nRssAHGFG_7SBDfcMO1FO4w1LWncKP_hYpwrRV6v7XkGT_SSQxM7vVvWrCWGEKXpWKMC50Tq_eGU2STlvKU0h2DEE9W_yV-e2mTnOn-IkoaP3UxxrQT8go2bpjznwdCH_RCpllgnfR36qBzPc1iclQ/w320-h400/fdb8db8aff81100b2f8dc67337b40a5a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Photo from <a href="https://twitter.com/inanna1814/status/1282622538678521857" target="_blank">Inanna</a><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfq-2m76JpmYoclADtZ5IIwWUyuO98SVX3Iipb_-nFcOhsBgN5J7yA0tZX-WfD-qnO17vdQLw_uwAEv76nTWr5zBWeHd76fR7-4hXsEZEZSVwGPXD9D89KxAMDXIvqHR0JhQsX14mejHU-_SJ7mNkuBfslcAOvA8CYvezphaO8Cyx27r4omyi5VEOhnw/s564/6535d6314686cd02d8e2711b2b3aed7f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="341" data-original-width="564" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfq-2m76JpmYoclADtZ5IIwWUyuO98SVX3Iipb_-nFcOhsBgN5J7yA0tZX-WfD-qnO17vdQLw_uwAEv76nTWr5zBWeHd76fR7-4hXsEZEZSVwGPXD9D89KxAMDXIvqHR0JhQsX14mejHU-_SJ7mNkuBfslcAOvA8CYvezphaO8Cyx27r4omyi5VEOhnw/w400-h241/6535d6314686cd02d8e2711b2b3aed7f.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Photo from <a href="https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/52706258127752347/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a><br /></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQc_MjkzDIHRERzfYqAEJlDu1hlJ8qpE4MFCJP8Tlheful-L3JBzazhpEjRas9-9KKvq3UCN6jdAqLnU5Y4-EzdHqHMjr6_lcQC4UQx8C4eDGeCv87eIfcKNN1U6ZV8cbJ2zTKIqqcEEjh_nnKZpUr34oohrbxvxIMT1I0lU4GTxFrXzLVEXxYtdUmkA/s555/tumblr_0235942f4e85989a6dc615a35f194c5d_4f36f97f_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="482" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQc_MjkzDIHRERzfYqAEJlDu1hlJ8qpE4MFCJP8Tlheful-L3JBzazhpEjRas9-9KKvq3UCN6jdAqLnU5Y4-EzdHqHMjr6_lcQC4UQx8C4eDGeCv87eIfcKNN1U6ZV8cbJ2zTKIqqcEEjh_nnKZpUr34oohrbxvxIMT1I0lU4GTxFrXzLVEXxYtdUmkA/w348-h400/tumblr_0235942f4e85989a6dc615a35f194c5d_4f36f97f_500.jpg" width="348" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Photo from <a href="https://i.pinimg.com/originals/19/82/2b/19822b9ca1fee749ff03f2787920dde3.jpg">Pinterest</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-61375980502377089652022-07-26T23:48:00.020+08:002022-12-21T11:56:34.046+08:00Fearing God<p style="text-align: justify;">I grew up in a home where the first day of the weeks were spent in church. Back then, it was more of a habit and a duty to wake up early for Sunday School in a Methodist church. Yet, I remembered anticipating excitedly the lessons and fun activities that were conducted by my teacher. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Upon reflecting about the different phases and events in my life, I realized that my sinful nature and lack of knowledge in the scripture compelled me to do the things that the Lord disproved of. Sadly, the characteristics I knew about Him were limited; I did not know how to fearfully love Him. Thus, I displeased Him due to my ignorance while I prioritized the mundaneness of life in the past. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The topic, "Fear of God" was discussed by Pastor Jed for almost five years during the Wednesday prayer meetings. Through this series, I realized that God is not only loving, merciful, faithful, nor forgiving. He ceases and withholds the rightful blessings and favors from a Christian. He also allows the lukewarm to have a miserable life, chastises the hardheaded in the process of rebellion (Hebrews 12:5-13). </p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDGPeEr9_AthBq762YUbgVS4FPUT4KydtYGFc9Xjv7ZRS4594bmXD5FtXrtq-G4vGrkBX-rj3gLhSb1OVp_EORhm6C_r9E3sz1gd8AQUnEhlS6isreyTAimBsK53MgOfAkOy_xal19D5UDZa7MgzaSYkBVquNnWCKAChq_mSWXiyzDsh-_bWX1E35N-A/s875/received_440838694720689.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd3AKRnFhKGidn8yCaI2poLtbh3BYCZJtr5Irak6LDRf4YkC9oXLp-EYueSxZL0uY0irm-_t_1TQFr7IqhTBBxpz61lDELjz6muTwpBSbiSbdIphKmZbAQA-lSlRksvGuTcNzrY5iIAagg7VRqAOF0nQ7uZYPMcNs7n7YZYqSdMjiH4Sp838H_HrcA6w/s875/received_440838694720689.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="657" data-original-width="875" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd3AKRnFhKGidn8yCaI2poLtbh3BYCZJtr5Irak6LDRf4YkC9oXLp-EYueSxZL0uY0irm-_t_1TQFr7IqhTBBxpz61lDELjz6muTwpBSbiSbdIphKmZbAQA-lSlRksvGuTcNzrY5iIAagg7VRqAOF0nQ7uZYPMcNs7n7YZYqSdMjiH4Sp838H_HrcA6w/w400-h300/received_440838694720689.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>The Malonzo Family: (L-R) Matthew, Paul, Bro. Fiel, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sister Tak and Faith<br /></div><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Fearing God is best exemplified by our church's missionary family to Vietnam. Four years ago, Bro. Fiel, together with his wife and three children gave up their comfortable lives and high paying jobs. They put aside their worldly ambitions, trusted Him to steer their lives in a foreign land (despite the language barrier in the beginning) so they could share the gospel to those who have no inkling about our Father in heaven!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Fearing God further deepened their convictions. They equipped themselves by continuously studying His Word. Despite the many tears and heart aches from rejections, from uncontrollable events, from the familial problems their relatives unloaded to them; they persisted. They never gave in to discouragements. Their accountability to God far outweighed these. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Fearing God equated to blessings. Bro. Fiel was hired as head of Training and Development for all branches at Pizza Hut Vietnam (the same international company he worked for in the Philippines). His wife, Sis. Tak works from home as an HR Consultant for Recruitment and Selection for the Table Group, Inc. at OSM Ship Management. Concurrently, they have established various group ages who are learning about Jesus.</p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">When most are busy hustling to make a living, they are using their lives to honor God. Their story is truly heartwarming because its framework is fearing God.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-73614701757565206812022-06-03T18:34:00.034+08:002022-07-07T03:13:49.606+08:00Kuya J Restaurant <p style="text-align: justify;">The situation these days is far different from when the Covid-19 pandemic began. I was appalled with the sea of people in the mall even on a weekday! Since it's summer here, the temperature can be a high 35 degrees (or even higher). Maybe the crowd was window shopping while enjoying the cool environment. Perhaps there's really a need to replenish their pantry or just like us, we decided to have lunch to celebrate my mother's birthday.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">In the past, she would prepare a number of dishes for the family. I may not be a good cook but I know the hustle of going through it. Normally, it starts from planning, to marketing, to preparing (the ingredients) and then cooking. Whew, such a tedious task! Besides, there is an abundant of restaurants nearby to make this occasion less stressful for the celebrant as she heartily enjoys the food.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHg6gkINLNjVJH3UtHFYE4_uOOhIE2IhyTABLtnoxKagNNGKw9FMPPzs1syz7-KOoHf0XFI289VXHdHDS-VhL19uQ7gRbZAHCQrtAhmeVFMSHmiP3JgFjBfZc2IfPUu_DjD6nKSS0bE4i-8iHi0ZravhwAmr50BIIBRDsNHBPQnFatp5nKWaPhYKAF6w/s3251/IMG_20220603_143009.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3031" data-original-width="3251" height="373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHg6gkINLNjVJH3UtHFYE4_uOOhIE2IhyTABLtnoxKagNNGKw9FMPPzs1syz7-KOoHf0XFI289VXHdHDS-VhL19uQ7gRbZAHCQrtAhmeVFMSHmiP3JgFjBfZc2IfPUu_DjD6nKSS0bE4i-8iHi0ZravhwAmr50BIIBRDsNHBPQnFatp5nKWaPhYKAF6w/w400-h373/IMG_20220603_143009.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Clockwise: beef kare-kare, chicken sisig and pinakbet </div><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">It's our third time to eat at Kuya J's. We agreed unanimously to order something new from their menu and opted for their <i>kare-kare bundle.</i> The dishes were almost cooked to perfection. The beef kare-kare was very soft; it's peanut sauce, rich and thick. The chicken sisig was bursting with so much flavor - it was tender, crispy and quite spicy. Their version of pinakbet, was a bit hard. Maybe we can request to have it cooked thoroughly next time. <br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPxYQhjR3jMbl7SQUsTtEMEbTR2Aw2YYsG3AThxCe6zz9SHR0MeECzGoxBBODur0bTPjyK3oQ-6Q11JNK5llWd023bOuk-CmR3BjOoklOqaca-B8oBXzAjE2vvVqHvpEH1fj7L2nM6SXa4DgzceKbWJm_VParfNyAyw7WXOvkEMOFRweOsDHfptIIQQ/s4608/IMG20220603140721.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPxYQhjR3jMbl7SQUsTtEMEbTR2Aw2YYsG3AThxCe6zz9SHR0MeECzGoxBBODur0bTPjyK3oQ-6Q11JNK5llWd023bOuk-CmR3BjOoklOqaca-B8oBXzAjE2vvVqHvpEH1fj7L2nM6SXa4DgzceKbWJm_VParfNyAyw7WXOvkEMOFRweOsDHfptIIQQ/w400-h300/IMG20220603140721.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">L-R: espesyal and ube halo-halo </div><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Their espesyal (vanilla flavor) and ube (yam flavor) halo-halo version were way better than the other restaurants who also offer this dessert. The milk and sugar were incorporated into the water, frozen then shaved, giving a very smooth texture to it! You guessed it right - we truly had a very satisfying meal! By the way, Kuya J Restaurant belongs to the food company who also manages Landers Superstore, Popeyes Philippines, <span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc">Grandcon, Tsay Cheng Chinese Cuisine and Seafood City. How was your Kuya J experience?<br /></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/KuyaJResto">Kuya J FB page <br /></a><a href="https://www.kuyaj.ph/">About Kuya J Restaurant</a><br /></p>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-56884146625865514432022-05-16T12:22:00.008+08:002022-07-29T18:04:55.816+08:00The Mothers In My Life<p style="text-align: justify;">My mother and grandmother both play a significant role in my life. I saw their strength behind their gentleness, their ability to simultaneously juggle their roles when the need arises and their wisdom in resolving the many challenges in the family.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghdFfbG4Ajt9LfTmTpnPd1K5_P89dNTfbYcIDp5Y9oek3CVggH2YHeF2q2G716k4lfQuiP7PFIGf5WnJSjdTp3SUIVI6C3dWlurX1FCihUBy3L-7gCTPmPnnNKU-rYw8fz103MPALGWreDEP100gLquG84itvXzj7ilZzfOwZMs9eCv_Flp3iR8FGKyw/s1229/88073875_3049757448388885_1590676446999740416_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1229" data-original-width="1229" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghdFfbG4Ajt9LfTmTpnPd1K5_P89dNTfbYcIDp5Y9oek3CVggH2YHeF2q2G716k4lfQuiP7PFIGf5WnJSjdTp3SUIVI6C3dWlurX1FCihUBy3L-7gCTPmPnnNKU-rYw8fz103MPALGWreDEP100gLquG84itvXzj7ilZzfOwZMs9eCv_Flp3iR8FGKyw/w320-h320/88073875_3049757448388885_1590676446999740416_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My mom<br /></div><div><p style="text-align: justify;"><br />I will never forget the myriad sacrifices my mom has done for me especially after my injury. After losing my ability to walk, she was my number one cheerleader. She was present during my physical therapy sessions - from the moment I was taught to get up from bed, to sit, to balance, to stand, and walk with assistive devices (walker and long leg braces).<br /><br /><br />She supported me to go back to school, to join PWD organizations which eventually widened my perspective, and most importantly to deepen my faith. She is my safe place amid the "noise" around me. She is quite protective too. We argue, agree, discuss and enjoy doing many things together.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIL-GL21KY41hmaXnIgMfGQyQrNeskXD1B4NmHCmQLI5LWR8iLz6JW4YEwdGvJM04WU1qP4RoQbydeP2rOmubhQiRokB8-bfqx1eVnK_UB0mgtg4_ltVYVksZZ_Dmxf0ufH5RRGFDSstqO3z2TYaAJLiiV-H_KiSQVJAelVMy8Te1qDkGxojUNOUue5g/s2048/2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIL-GL21KY41hmaXnIgMfGQyQrNeskXD1B4NmHCmQLI5LWR8iLz6JW4YEwdGvJM04WU1qP4RoQbydeP2rOmubhQiRokB8-bfqx1eVnK_UB0mgtg4_ltVYVksZZ_Dmxf0ufH5RRGFDSstqO3z2TYaAJLiiV-H_KiSQVJAelVMy8Te1qDkGxojUNOUue5g/w400-h300/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My grandmother with most of her great grandchildren<br /></div></div><div><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">My Lola is the pillar in our family. She recently celebrated her 96th birthday early this month. She is generous, forgiving and kind. Her love for Christ enabled us to get to know Him better when she started inviting Baptist pastors to conduct Bible studies in her home. While I was growing up, she instilled in me the value of time, money and the importance of tithing. She has faced various hardships yet, she manages to surpass them all with the help of our good Lord.</p><p><br /><i></i></p><blockquote><i>Strength and honor are her clothing... she openeth her mouth with wisdom, and her tongue is the law of kindess.. a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised. Proverbs 31</i></blockquote><p></p></div>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-89277524258734910602022-03-28T12:14:00.005+08:002022-05-05T10:56:07.747+08:00 Love In The Moonlight<p style="text-align: justify;">Is a historical Korean drama series that depicts the tangled lives of Prince Lee Yeong ang Hong Ra On (also known as Eunoch Hong Sam Nom). </p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Hong Ra On is the daughter of Joeson's rebel, Hong Gyeong-nae, causing so much anxiety to the King. She grows up disguising as a boy, as instructed by her mother for fear of being abducted. She eventually parts with her at eight years old in the market when they try to flee from the soldiers and learns to fend for herself under someone else's care. Similarly, she has no information about the significance of her father's identity.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">In between, she performs in various places & writes love letters to earn a living until the company they owe money from sells her to the palace as a eunuch. As Hong Sam Nom (Ra On), she disguises as the prince's personal eunoch. In the process, they fall in love with each other.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Prince Lee Yeong, an interim ruler after his father becomes ill is haughty and playful. Yet he dearly adores his mother from whom he learns the many principles of life as well as the characteristics of a great leader. He is an idealist who wishes to remove the gap between the people and his rulership, someone who will bring hope to his nation and where equality is observed. On the other hand, he is serious with his princely tasks by making his country better. He is also a man of honor. His unconditional love for Ra On despite the myriad challenges they face together is remarkable.</p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XZqoLX8Gq78" width="350" youtube-src-id="XZqoLX8Gq78"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;">Moonlight Drawn by Clouds OST Source: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZqoLX8Gq78">YouTube</a><br /></div><div><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Love In The Moonlight admittedly captured my heart; I was smitten! The reasons, I'd like to share with you:</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">1. I was hooked with the characters and how believable their portrayal were. It was exciting to watch how Lee Yeong unearthed each and every unscrupulous event headed by Minister Kim Heon and his accomplices to destabilize the King's family. The friendship he had with Byeung-yeon was outstanding. He was one of the few persons he trusted. The unthinkable sacrifices Byeung-yeon had for Lee Yeong, even to the point of losing his own life was something. There's also Yoon-sung who was the prince's good friend when they were young. Despite their families constant feud for power, he remained loyal throughout the drama to the prince. I also admired his sincere one-sided feelings for Ra On; it was disheartening.<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">2. I felt various emotions throughout the series. I was tickled, glad, furious, relieved, disappointed and hopeful. The writers made sure to create an exciting ending in every episode, craving the viewers to look forward to the next.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The finale episode was the perfect culmination, as Lee Yeong realizes the country he envisioned. He was like the moon shining brightly because of the few trusted people who stood with him in the course of time.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Unlike some drama series with tragic ending, Love In The Moonlight was totally different. Sure, the writers had to kill several vital characters. The many hurdles the main roles had to face were surreal and I have to remind myself constantly that it is fictional.<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I've watched Park Bo Gum in other dramas but his role as Lee Yeong was outstanding. Did you also experience any fangirl moment? </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT7HCaBGEcVsJMsjJTQIzfeYCywN5cy15JtFOHL9rI85X-SALYw6nhrFCZqJ5TWidhDGNRZpLr1p2k1PboNGBlOUCzOzXVwTDD8FmhszDJ8jFYegn7jaGWuHgijWo7kUdNuuBvVNgstLmoEnSnAAiptueC5-azWxwQ0M4lVd1-QICgr5mAewe6mmjDqQ/s4096/GridArt_20220326_193158333.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3276" data-original-width="4096" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT7HCaBGEcVsJMsjJTQIzfeYCywN5cy15JtFOHL9rI85X-SALYw6nhrFCZqJ5TWidhDGNRZpLr1p2k1PboNGBlOUCzOzXVwTDD8FmhszDJ8jFYegn7jaGWuHgijWo7kUdNuuBvVNgstLmoEnSnAAiptueC5-azWxwQ0M4lVd1-QICgr5mAewe6mmjDqQ/w400-h320/GridArt_20220326_193158333.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Park Bo Gum (Source: Pinterest)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p><br /></p></div>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-84009051106308135622022-02-24T17:26:00.020+08:002022-07-28T22:40:27.683+08:00Tanay Highlands<p style="text-align: justify;">Another spontaneous trip to the East allowed my parents and I to discover a fairly new dining spot, Tanay Highlands Cafe.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5RSGrjqNn0RUEx-bcjCYJvNiT3k73ReIDtiaSBAZABlvSwuGudG3Zimg193TgeT89j9x4pQEOTuV05u1lvETP5giFsOcKsbbHHENshvB-MbpFrs0t-nPXmiY-IoHv9NlLOJOnuoTFlnnHWVYYq3u0EOK4q-nBHGDCVHqdsU5wI-__GQXKFbKLJjffwg=s4608" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5RSGrjqNn0RUEx-bcjCYJvNiT3k73ReIDtiaSBAZABlvSwuGudG3Zimg193TgeT89j9x4pQEOTuV05u1lvETP5giFsOcKsbbHHENshvB-MbpFrs0t-nPXmiY-IoHv9NlLOJOnuoTFlnnHWVYYq3u0EOK4q-nBHGDCVHqdsU5wI-__GQXKFbKLJjffwg=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Of all the places I've seen around this area, this is spot on! The magnificence of the Pililia windmills, Laguna de Bay and part of Sierra Madre can be enjoyed. Admittedly, I am not only in awe but in love. It is arguably the best restaurant with a scenic view!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">All three tourist destinations in Rizal, including the fresh breeze many long for can be found here. The winding road uphill replete with bountiful trees is a much better sight than the usual traffic and congestion in the metropolitan. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjNuR7yv_ux1wRa6bL8fAH1xvbtn2ZwkE5QgfDgBkqjU3o5MTy_AxQUvyo7R6SohYfB7n-fOQ_ZIr7X8tLpMmVb87c0wndPTUfNci4vuhgGD0rAn147rTdOcJYDc3jNyWQXIqpJE6I2UQdiznOFViDq4McyOHu5rL-QbbrATiERD7wOlaP82aU4wRo04g=s4096" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjNuR7yv_ux1wRa6bL8fAH1xvbtn2ZwkE5QgfDgBkqjU3o5MTy_AxQUvyo7R6SohYfB7n-fOQ_ZIr7X8tLpMmVb87c0wndPTUfNci4vuhgGD0rAn147rTdOcJYDc3jNyWQXIqpJE6I2UQdiznOFViDq4McyOHu5rL-QbbrATiERD7wOlaP82aU4wRo04g=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhcaCGM4YIHqxd31n6IB9QYGOWmyKtIzzmOmUSxUaWsjEZEp48AEN6KuzdwnrdIHIbe_3_uQA_5XCqhVKWqTlpZKPMV9RjmeKzsMOMDpKQU01plqTAUlbTtlgSYVLSJz5tT39wwmSMrcgzDqhJGDugMJBs-wcaqLyULhe1pCZm3pFqfwwAFC-d91_borA=s4608" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhcaCGM4YIHqxd31n6IB9QYGOWmyKtIzzmOmUSxUaWsjEZEp48AEN6KuzdwnrdIHIbe_3_uQA_5XCqhVKWqTlpZKPMV9RjmeKzsMOMDpKQU01plqTAUlbTtlgSYVLSJz5tT39wwmSMrcgzDqhJGDugMJBs-wcaqLyULhe1pCZm3pFqfwwAFC-d91_borA=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: justify;">We heard that it opened only this February 5th. A group of college graduates from Ateneo de Manila own the place and is still in the process of improving the dining area as well as their menu. This is also a better alternative to Tagaytay and Baguio. More so, it is so much closer to Metro Manila. Parking will never be a problem; an ample and secured space is provided. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The food selection is good enough to pacify the growling tummies of the motorists. They also have a wide array of beverages to satiate one's thirst. I honestly don't mind the previous because the breathtaking view will suffice. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/tanayhighlands/?ref=page_internal">FB Page: Tanay Highlands</a><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0H9H7+5HW, Tanay, Rizal, Philippines14.5779735 121.363884-41.890820730874282 51.051384000000027 71.046767730874279 -168.32361600000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-36287145461187444852022-01-22T19:16:00.017+08:002022-07-07T03:39:33.182+08:00Bulawan Floating Restaurant<p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg9BIlJHftHPhaEvnJQS3vLEbpur_YU0vva8dQGST_7BwGfocUhX--9bNcelt84TjxfZkhYhmphbvw-13PxHHoZDTXFk_LQxS89zMyu9_7mSOpspVCg4fuJ9SexDVljuIj3BmicgPrAZNGLgc9_sNia8WBPZ4cG8zuNRf1ToyEneS9OdJj6eZPbRO28hA=s4096" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg9BIlJHftHPhaEvnJQS3vLEbpur_YU0vva8dQGST_7BwGfocUhX--9bNcelt84TjxfZkhYhmphbvw-13PxHHoZDTXFk_LQxS89zMyu9_7mSOpspVCg4fuJ9SexDVljuIj3BmicgPrAZNGLgc9_sNia8WBPZ4cG8zuNRf1ToyEneS9OdJj6eZPbRO28hA=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: justify;">We discovered another place to hang out in the age of the new normal. It boasts with fresh air,
al fresco dining, fishing and boat ride activities as well as an assortment of
newly cooked food you can choose from. Bulawan Floating Restaurant is located along the hiway of East Manila
Road in Pililia, Rizal. It also has a scenic view of the tourist
attraction, Pililia Windmills.</p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">It was an opportune time
to explore a destination we frequently pass by on our various trips
around Rizal. We were also intrigued then with their parking area that abounded with vehicles. To kill our curiosity, we braved
ourselves to have lunch away from home after my medical checkup.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHEPSu04dvAVREAAIUoeIhBlqVJ_KrlRUfk-tLGGjTCP7b2tY7tPEf67hvnSHcBLcA653FuWWyVoHSOSnhV171dwJCfH0Qr07RchHOTRx1j8UGDkv8FlxjeIqDHzVONID3GwnOdHHjHBEVcOhPMlMGDYt1LiA3yJ7BClwNgq9GzbZoiDshliPckCOZ3g=s5760" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4312" data-original-width="5760" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHEPSu04dvAVREAAIUoeIhBlqVJ_KrlRUfk-tLGGjTCP7b2tY7tPEf67hvnSHcBLcA653FuWWyVoHSOSnhV171dwJCfH0Qr07RchHOTRx1j8UGDkv8FlxjeIqDHzVONID3GwnOdHHjHBEVcOhPMlMGDYt1LiA3yJ7BClwNgq9GzbZoiDshliPckCOZ3g=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVL-ka_LjBjNHT6PMeDz14unI87FYy9hNZ-8-bEgPrMkth-fQ-Fl9ldjSsgf98b-xxd2FFXCyDHOMW3bZM9dd4bb99TJIiO7I0dIEs4QkCL5Fg8pa77XQAo942Nsyt6-zbiP7VFiK65tL7hyonVmWJfadlg8T5lOXdbH022Mj_IP6Q9Wfl2qeSwGn3Nw=s4608" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVL-ka_LjBjNHT6PMeDz14unI87FYy9hNZ-8-bEgPrMkth-fQ-Fl9ldjSsgf98b-xxd2FFXCyDHOMW3bZM9dd4bb99TJIiO7I0dIEs4QkCL5Fg8pa77XQAo942Nsyt6-zbiP7VFiK65tL7hyonVmWJfadlg8T5lOXdbH022Mj_IP6Q9Wfl2qeSwGn3Nw=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We ordered calamares (deep fried squid covered in batter) coupled with
some crispy kangkong chips. The squid, juicy and tender to the bite. The
mayonnaise dip will add just the right flavor to it. The sizzling dish
(shrimp, squid, pork and chicken) was also a hit. It was creamy and
delectable. Lastly, the grilled eggplant with chopped onions, tomatoes
and shrimp paste neutralized the meal. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKm3kiJnnN7Tu0f6nlQb6Kx_8Bqgxj9ifNxCQKDMZPLPCr9LasGHwoN18dneXyrmN0lAkEQksbBxu8UMGu456IOZNOhFrKEUuaodw-pyWG56sNH1JpixQ9Eafd3aKnEqto-ysDProb5udFyoOmcDRaCEkeFzafq0rEQz31EuZnYCWLEXNZtRf5MGjziA=s4608" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKm3kiJnnN7Tu0f6nlQb6Kx_8Bqgxj9ifNxCQKDMZPLPCr9LasGHwoN18dneXyrmN0lAkEQksbBxu8UMGu456IOZNOhFrKEUuaodw-pyWG56sNH1JpixQ9Eafd3aKnEqto-ysDProb5udFyoOmcDRaCEkeFzafq0rEQz31EuZnYCWLEXNZtRf5MGjziA=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi79mJ1zRDdt9h_T31GqonnOdgTG7OJxKGzOw6TIVs5olZEymv4TUX_5pYyHoQyyia9e-o8hz2mObhLQIC6H3R9-WOJySWUEgGcZMrZ7i43plPL44deKo1MZuFMDMPrMAfqRmgV49trZrbWyZ5alipKGeGt97yzKIdJbIDVrNfI2R5_ibym7l-xemAhIA=s4096" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi79mJ1zRDdt9h_T31GqonnOdgTG7OJxKGzOw6TIVs5olZEymv4TUX_5pYyHoQyyia9e-o8hz2mObhLQIC6H3R9-WOJySWUEgGcZMrZ7i43plPL44deKo1MZuFMDMPrMAfqRmgV49trZrbWyZ5alipKGeGt97yzKIdJbIDVrNfI2R5_ibym7l-xemAhIA=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmseuYZsiN6h9_1H8wTpOyrcsY0DC-_6VwLmvkZZ7sUl2l5xFisSIz5gKVA4qGpRZ7Y9FHAElQLDeRye1O0pv-JTq1QNxp1Chjzdehp0Bf_KwHTuriiRmwupdS39tvww-GTXUJWJct92GAb7goucUWooa55j7i-_jhD3baCT1iluany8VUU9P4ROsdhA=s4096" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmseuYZsiN6h9_1H8wTpOyrcsY0DC-_6VwLmvkZZ7sUl2l5xFisSIz5gKVA4qGpRZ7Y9FHAElQLDeRye1O0pv-JTq1QNxp1Chjzdehp0Bf_KwHTuriiRmwupdS39tvww-GTXUJWJct92GAb7goucUWooa55j7i-_jhD3baCT1iluany8VUU9P4ROsdhA=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgkEDl8fnFK6IzKueiesvx3HrCKE0pojtxOcVs1K7nXQf5bA2ShLTrACLhYU_RtksKRxK9ujiroM7V9TU_G_n5W_fyasaYI_tI3o8_itst9bCapeRq8ni1_vMArOAwo0kVNWGq6k3ETv4AAVBmkHuhqtOsbBNSqRx99B-ij6QJeVF9UJ11RvMrxwnZ4jg=s4096" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgkEDl8fnFK6IzKueiesvx3HrCKE0pojtxOcVs1K7nXQf5bA2ShLTrACLhYU_RtksKRxK9ujiroM7V9TU_G_n5W_fyasaYI_tI3o8_itst9bCapeRq8ni1_vMArOAwo0kVNWGq6k3ETv4AAVBmkHuhqtOsbBNSqRx99B-ij6QJeVF9UJ11RvMrxwnZ4jg=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Many families stayed longer as they tried their luck to catch a fish using the bamboo pole. Tilapia and heto were abundant. Patience is required for this leisurely activity. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">As usual, my father and I succeeded in cajoling my mom to have this road trip with us. We are cooped up at home with the surge (again) of the COVID-19 cases. This is indeed a great way to spend the weekend away from home. How was yours? </p><p><br /></p>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-62742747477803672402021-11-09T00:28:00.012+08:002022-07-07T03:47:11.638+08:00Little Baguio Of Antipolo<div style="text-align: justify;">My parents and I have been discovering remarkable places with beautiful views around Rizal. Each trip never fails to give me a pleasant feeling and an attitude of gratitude that my senses are perfectly fine despite my inability to walk. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">After visiting the grocery and a quick lunch we got via drive thru, off we went to another adventure. Last week, my father and uncle came to the same place but were not allowed to pass through. I whispered a silent, "thank you, Lord" when the security guards allowed us to get in after a short interrogation. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Wow!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The road - very charming with tall and lush pine trees lined up on both sides of the two-kilometer (or so) stretch. My eyes were delighted to witness a view I don't get to see on a daily basis. My ears were happy to hear the sound of cicadas as if they were welcoming us once I brought the vehicle's window down. The breeze, cool, although the sky abounded with feathery clouds.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There were many other motorists who, like us were excited to see the beauty of Antipolo's "Little Baguio," situated on Sapinit Road, Barangay San Juan in Rizal. Many stayed longer, got out of their vehicles and spent time posing for a photo. One family was having a picnic as they comfortably sat on a mat that was spread on the grass and leisurely ate the food they brought. Others walked along the road with their pets and kids on their bicycles. It is a conducive place to spend time, enjoy the fresh air and be in the midst of a magnificent place. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">On the right side is the view of the Sierra Madre Mountains. The opposite is dense with many other trees akin to a mini forest. We also found a nursery that abounded with ornamental plants. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We learned from the security guards that the property is owned by the Araneta's. Although it was unfathomable for me to initially understand why this endeavor was done, I was glad they did! It's open to the public only this year. It's an added attraction too to those who prefer to discover and reconnect with nature (rather than the usual trip to the mall). I also learned that some residents are selling the rights of their properties. It would be ideal to have a small house in such environment, like in a quaint painting or a postcard. I can only dream about it but I'm grateful to have the opportunity to visit, even for a fleeting moment.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LgMQeo0EE1o/YYk9qjdq0TI/AAAAAAAALgo/F4ZyuH50PpUxpXuXjYzHG8ym44hvsDB3gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG20211108134416.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LgMQeo0EE1o/YYk9qjdq0TI/AAAAAAAALgo/F4ZyuH50PpUxpXuXjYzHG8ym44hvsDB3gCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/IMG20211108134416.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sHOcJAhHq1U/YYk-IaW2O_I/AAAAAAAALgw/3glkSpnoX70chfsTfDb-v1UR725Se5_XACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG20211108135033.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sHOcJAhHq1U/YYk-IaW2O_I/AAAAAAAALgw/3glkSpnoX70chfsTfDb-v1UR725Se5_XACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/IMG20211108135033.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MLOUZ57gEuc/YYk-jiLL80I/AAAAAAAALhA/p6LYW2XJ3EgJ-Obz9SH3XIRBkwqNfh_JACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG20211108134522.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MLOUZ57gEuc/YYk-jiLL80I/AAAAAAAALhA/p6LYW2XJ3EgJ-Obz9SH3XIRBkwqNfh_JACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/IMG20211108134522.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-79421086394307923262021-07-07T10:45:00.004+08:002021-11-15T17:20:34.727+08:00Shopee: The Best Online Shopping Platform Around<div style="text-align: justify;">With the continuous development of technology, our lives have become easier. Home appliances have evolved through the years. Manufacturers have incorporated the inverter and the "smart" technology. These features have significantly lowered our electric consumption and saved us much money in the process. There's Skype, Zoom, FB messenger applications (among the many others available) that are used for faster communication. All you need is a stable Internet connection and you can have a video call or chat with a co-worker, a family member or attend a virtual church service which is timely due to the pandemic. </div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Shopping has also become a breeze these days. We need not go out to purchase an item which one can conveniently do at the comfort of our homes. Everything we need is actually sold online! And Shopee has become my go-to for the following reasons:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e9Ld7vAadwQ/YUIxJFRwYeI/AAAAAAAALa4/ZajdbI9JknQgyhN1pPUMoRw8pSUx3W7JgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1079/IMG_20210916_014353.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1043" data-original-width="1079" height="386" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e9Ld7vAadwQ/YUIxJFRwYeI/AAAAAAAALa4/ZajdbI9JknQgyhN1pPUMoRw8pSUx3W7JgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h386/IMG_20210916_014353.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Photo from <a href="https://seeklogo.com/vector-logo/378739/shopee">seeklogo.com</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">1. Find Similar - allows one to search for the exact product with the lowest price possible since the difference is truly huge! You can view this under "My Likes" (after you ticked the heart icon). Most of the time, you'll see a variety of the same item too that ranges from the cheapest material to the sturdiest. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">2. Return Refund - enables you to return the product or make a refund if the item delivered is wrong. Once, my father requested me to buy a tubeless tire for his scooter. The description says the same and it was shipped overseas. When the package arrived, the tire had a tube! Shopee will process your refund as long as you provide the necessary evidence that the item you received was wrong. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">3. Payment Options - aside from cash on delivery (COD), credit/debit card, you can also link your savings account with Shopee and is guaranteed safe. COD was not accepted when I tried to send several packs of face masks and alcohol bottles to a teacher in the Bicol region. This is a convenient way to order for others or if you intend to give a present without going out of your home.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There's Lazada which I used to adore in the past. There's Zalora (and a couple more online shopping sites) but I have not explored its platform. Admittedly, with the rise of patients affected with the virus, shopping online will be the safest way to get your needs and everything in-between. <span style="text-align: left;">I might have a missed other features. Care to share?</span></div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-44671148811371470962021-05-14T17:15:00.014+08:002022-07-07T03:57:17.469+08:00 Honesty: An Important Trait<p style="text-align: justify;">Loyalty, humility and kindness are some of the characteristics I find attractive in a person. Aside from these, honesty is an uncommon quality possessed by very few people especially in these trying times.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Last February, we sought for an electrician who can fix the lingering problem of our light fixtures: a flickering pin light even after the bulb was replaced, the diagnosis of two other pin lights, two chandeliers and the replacement of two receptacle holders outdoor. It was quite a job!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Before these were done, I asked around for their professional fees. One charged P500 per light while the other, a hefty P700 per unit. Whoa!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The guy who did all these only charged us P1,000. On top of that he is an experienced electrician and has a certificate course on the subject. More so, he was honest enough to tell us the problem, what needs replacement and those that can be remedied by tinkering.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday, I threw a working steam iron which we barely used. My mother and I were victims of the scheme "as seen on TV." The item, as demonstrated, seemed friendly-user. However, it wasn't and we regretted buying it! My father saw it and thought of having it repaired. He shared the news today that he managed to have the steam iron fixed when it wasn't broken at all. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #314351;"><span style="font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: -0.08px;"><b><i>"He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much." Luke 16:10</i></b></span></span></p><p><br /></p>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-18761577903815693072021-04-06T18:41:00.111+08:002022-07-07T20:08:59.991+08:00Kape Natividad Roastery and Cafe<p style="text-align: justify;">With a bahay kubo-like structure minus the walls, Kape Natividad Roastery and Cafe is the go-to restaurant for many bikers or motorcyclists who enjoy the adrenaline rush of passing through the twisting and turning roads of Marilque Hiway. I was initially intrigued with the positive reviews found on their FB page. It was heightened once I saw their menu because admittedly, the food seemed affordable. Thus I was pleasantly glad we tried here since it did not disappoint.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Once you set foot inside their restaurant, you'll be greeted with the cool air that is gently touching your face. A portion of the Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges, the Laguna de Bay and lots of trees served as a great backdrop instead of the usual blank wall you'll see in a typical restaurant. It is also relaxing to spend some time unhurriedly here, more so if you are a nature lover. The downside was that, you'll have to park your vehicle along the hiway carefully and walk a couple of steps especially if the place is packed with people.<br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-09H_R78aYSI/YGwzvIibygI/AAAAAAAALQs/tcdVzDtJe8cJW9FEJY9hwQ4ZuB7xkLlugCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1617703753042.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-09H_R78aYSI/YGwzvIibygI/AAAAAAAALQs/tcdVzDtJe8cJW9FEJY9hwQ4ZuB7xkLlugCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h400/1617703753042.JPEG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Click for a bigger view and appreciate the beauty</div><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">We learned that branch opened only this January after a successful set up of their coffee shop on wheels. They used to have a restaurant along JP Rizal in Marikina but is still close since the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) started last year.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d02SnaFqvsA/YGwz8mVDUJI/AAAAAAAALQw/o4KT-5Zs_DgNM-djZ3femlmTVjC6dy8vwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1617703771625.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1801" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d02SnaFqvsA/YGwz8mVDUJI/AAAAAAAALQw/o4KT-5Zs_DgNM-djZ3femlmTVjC6dy8vwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h400/1617703771625.JPEG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Pugon baked meat lovers pizza</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-be-d7tSSJwQ/YGwz-nQ4adI/AAAAAAAALQ0/uyn1hFqV1vY25toirEn0fYN-0qL2HCrogCLcBGAsYHQ/s2017/1617703807091.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2017" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-be-d7tSSJwQ/YGwz-nQ4adI/AAAAAAAALQ0/uyn1hFqV1vY25toirEn0fYN-0qL2HCrogCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h400/1617703807091.JPEG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Crispy kare-kare</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-viwMW9_MGz8/YGw0BDq1EyI/AAAAAAAALQ8/gKvIkQIL0y8633cFS-e1D849-NCm3AmCgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1617703789033.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1686" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-viwMW9_MGz8/YGw0BDq1EyI/AAAAAAAALQ8/gKvIkQIL0y8633cFS-e1D849-NCm3AmCgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h400/1617703789033.JPEG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Mushroom burger</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xp1o4gkrQxA/YGw0DUpI6uI/AAAAAAAALRA/dxXcqSq4HQw8lmpesgfZeStkqRAjFb51gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1951/1617703822900.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1951" data-original-width="1179" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xp1o4gkrQxA/YGw0DUpI6uI/AAAAAAAALRA/dxXcqSq4HQw8lmpesgfZeStkqRAjFb51gCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h400/1617703822900.JPEG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Strawberry smoothie</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Their menu didn't have so many selections but I now know the reason why people keep on coming back despite the distance from the city. The pizza was really appetizing, oozing with a lot of melted mozarella cheese, pepperoni, smoke bacon and honey ham. It has pugon baked that gave it a distinct taste to it. The kare-kare's meat was indeed crispy and tender. It had a strong taste of the peanut sauce which makes this dish distinct, was tasty even if you forego the bagoong and is best paired with rice. The mushroom burger was shared by my parents. I think they liked it. It was a healthier option (I hope) from the burger fastfood chains we see everywhere. For the beverages, strawbery smoothie and iced cappuccino (not in photo) were as delectable.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H4YZzmDW9yI/YHu0stX5AsI/AAAAAAAALRc/RYXX7tpyYGAKto1rOCTlGwO3SfRiLGyrQCLcBGAsYHQ/s750/164237865_1123580031444914_6956172457102760040_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="750" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H4YZzmDW9yI/YHu0stX5AsI/AAAAAAAALRc/RYXX7tpyYGAKto1rOCTlGwO3SfRiLGyrQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h400/164237865_1123580031444914_6956172457102760040_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Photo from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KapeNatividadPH/photos/1123525871450330">kathyevec</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We had an enjoyable time away from our usual routine and definitely a relaxing way to prepare us for the new week's grind.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Kape Natividad <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KapeNatividadPH" target="_blank">FB page</a> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-62370417446115710012020-12-18T23:32:00.008+08:002020-12-22T00:26:14.896+08:00Covid-19 Pandemic: Introspection and Lessons<p style="text-align: justify;"> Lost lives, joblessness, poverty, mental health disorder and uncertainty of tomorrow are the obvious results of the Covid-19 pandemic. </p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">To this day the hype about it continues along with the increasing number of people inflicted with it. Throughout these nine long months of community quarantine, I learned these things:</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>✓</b> The importance of saving is paramount than acquiring a luxurious lifestyle. Many were financially unprepared. Companies have to close down because they were at the verge of bankruptcy. Some requested their employees to be on a skeletal workforce. Consequently, people are hungry and the economy continues to look bleak.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>✓ </b>There were a lot of generous individuals who shared their blessings to the frontliners and to the families that were greatly affected. Getting support solely from the government was unthinkable because of their poor fiscal management.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>✓</b> Staying at home even for a long period of time is indeed possible. You just need to look around. The chores are endless. You can also try a new activity to add meaning and joy to your life. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>✓</b> The government may enforce rules and restrictions related to the pandemic. However, let us not forget the importance of assemblying everytime the church is open for services. While practicing the proper health protocols, it is vital to obey God's mandate. His protection will surely be upon us and He will be very pleased.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>✓</b> Staying physically healthy is one of my priorities now. It's not just losing weight but being stronger, sweating more, trying hard to eat in moderation (despite the tempting food during this season) and hoping to maintain this lifestyle. It is educating myself and making healthier choices until my body craves no more for junk food.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The year is about to end. Typhoons, earthquake, deaths and this pandemic have shattered countless lives. Nonetheless let us continue to put our hope in Christ and to run the race with patience and gladness.</p><p><br /></p>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-36961681383861180192020-11-17T12:50:00.016+08:002022-09-26T23:52:59.867+08:00Typhoon Ulysses: My First Flood Encounter<p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WbF4Wq3YjMM/X7NVLTK3fGI/AAAAAAAALKM/eVFjGw8r8b0MmYvIoY2e1uYxaPiQhiIMgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1152/1605580445756.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="864" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WbF4Wq3YjMM/X7NVLTK3fGI/AAAAAAAALKM/eVFjGw8r8b0MmYvIoY2e1uYxaPiQhiIMgCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/1605580445756.JPEG" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Morning of November 12, 2020. My parents and I were astounded to witness the flood waters rising! It continued to increase as the hours progressed although the strength of the storm was no longer felt.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-63XTNo1YCdw/X7NVZqK_LmI/AAAAAAAALKQ/NbjqENB-amkPKlTbJnQb0bId1_CzSFQnwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1152/1605580489249.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="1152" height="308" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-63XTNo1YCdw/X7NVZqK_LmI/AAAAAAAALKQ/NbjqENB-amkPKlTbJnQb0bId1_CzSFQnwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h308/1605580489249.JPEG" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">My niece was optimistically awaiting for the water to enter the house. Equipped with rain boots and accompanied by her gadget to overcome boredom, she was sitting patiently by the door to welcome it! We even created paper boats, saw it sink and laughed! <br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-szm-Z3cwPM0/X7NVe99J11I/AAAAAAAALKY/an07TQqMx_o75mDwFuNC-nDicYH3bVUCwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1152/1605580534330.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="1152" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-szm-Z3cwPM0/X7NVe99J11I/AAAAAAAALKY/an07TQqMx_o75mDwFuNC-nDicYH3bVUCwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/1605580534330.JPEG" width="400" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Earlier on, my parents thought of elevating the furniture in case the water gets inside our house. Despite their age (both are seniors), they managed to prop the furniture on the batibot and ghost chairs. Their prudence saved us the energy and time to clear the furniture in the living and dining room while the rain water was getting higher. </p><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9fBmOylQzOM/X7NVkfGMPeI/AAAAAAAALKc/8r2r6BooiskxaX1DdWF0GVapPSBtqbcwQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1152/1605580571968.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="1152" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9fBmOylQzOM/X7NVkfGMPeI/AAAAAAAALKc/8r2r6BooiskxaX1DdWF0GVapPSBtqbcwQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/1605580571968.JPEG" width="400" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Around 4 PM, murky water slowly crept in. The inevitable happened. We had no way to stop it though we remained prayerful and knew that God was in control. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The anxiety attached to this phenomenon was new to us. We are grateful though that only 2" of rain water went in the house and subsided around 7 PM. My younger brother's family started to clean and clear the area. He disinfected the marble flooring the next day. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lbYzZp_yYhk/X7NVpKRgoEI/AAAAAAAALKg/kHE90x9c-K4Y60WVezTBVEAh4H_uJE1qQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1152/1605580631760.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="864" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lbYzZp_yYhk/X7NVpKRgoEI/AAAAAAAALKg/kHE90x9c-K4Y60WVezTBVEAh4H_uJE1qQCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/1605580631760.JPEG" width="300" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The storm's aftermath was another thing that needed to be tackled; it was physically challenging and time consuming. Due to the stubborn mud and debris, body aches were experienced after days of scrubbing the grounds. We also had a higher water bill. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Our property is 1.5 to 2 meters high from the street. Many of our neighbors had a hard time slumbering; their beds were dirtied with the flood! We have no right to complain after seeing a horrific situation in Cagayan and Marikina. I was grateful to see the sun shining, signifying hope especially to the affected. We further praise Him for His faithfulness and protection.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-66993518211945498272020-06-18T20:14:00.003+08:002020-10-31T09:52:18.175+08:00K-drama Bliss<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) accidentally allowed me to discover a different new world that made me cry, laugh and forget time. I witnessed and immersed into the lives of protagonists and villains I have learned to adore especially when the story continues to unfold because of their acting prowess fitting their characters. I exposed myself to varied genres (i.e. fantasy, thriller, romantic comedy, drama, tragic) and high caliber actors and actresses (not just the famous ones because of their looks). The more I watch, the more I understand the hype behind the sought-after Korean drama series.</div>
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Photo from <a href="http://rbtv.tv/">rbtv.tv</a><a href="https://www.rbtv.tv/tv-color-bars/" target="_blank">https://www.rbtv.tv/tv-color-bars/</a></div>
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I am amazed at how the writers creatively build plots that are out of this world which consequently make me wonder or guess what the next scene will be. I am stunned at the twists or even valleys and peaks of some I have watched. Most endings are happy; some, open-ended. A few, tragic. Yet every time I finish watching one, I find it hard to scout for a newer story. </div>
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Below are the titles of some K-dramas that pierced my heart. I may have discovered all these only now and I have many many more discoveries to do in the days to come. The good news is, there are free apps available for easier access: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>
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Woman of 9.9 Billion</div>
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W (Two World)</div>
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The Heirs</div>
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Scarlet Heart Ryeo</div>
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The Doctors</div>
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What is your favorite K-drama?</div>
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Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970634316034891032.post-31559864156778084622020-04-07T13:30:00.006+08:002020-12-22T00:29:48.343+08:00COVID-19: The Good After The Enhanced Community Quarantine <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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As someone who telecommutes, being home-bound was never a problem. In fact I am able to have a flexible work schedule, eat nutritious cooked meals and linger longer in bed when everyone gets out of their houses before the sun rises to avoid the traffic rush. I look forward to the occasion when my parents and I buy our groceries, attend church services, enjoy a hearty meal at our go-to restaurant or simply waste time in a mall to people watch. And I seriously miss doing those. Surprisingly I am surviving! </div>
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It is not all that bad though during this time. </div>
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1. Making a quick trip to the supermarket, drugstore and the wet market are the only times my parents go out. The village we live in has a curfew. It is mandatory to wear a mask at all times when outdoors. The good is, our expense has decreased since we only spend on the necessities. </div>
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2. The air is so much cleaner. With fewer vehicles on the roads now after the lock down, it is no surprise that the level of pollution has immensely decreased.</div>
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3. I am grateful that the industry I am a part of is not affected, enabling me to continue to work and earn a living.</div>
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4. Today's technology allows my family and the rest of my brethren to continue to listen to God's Words via online streaming. </div>
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This pandemic will stop. I just don't know when. And I humbly ask our good Lord to end this global event once His will has been accomplished. </div>
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Faridahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17627337631161324801noreply@blogger.com4