Mumbai Tragedy

Reading the news today is disheartening.

Wave of terror attacked Mumbai's tourist, business, and financial district. Hostages were trapped inside Taj and Oberoi Hotels in Mumbai after police and gunmen exchanged fire. Casualty figures varied at this time but one thing is for sure - several innocent people were injured and killed.

photos from the internet

I unconsciously covered my mouth with my hand as I read the morning news. I have been to India in 2004, met a lot of good friends and stayed at an Oberoi Hotel in Bangalore. A CNN employee, Yasmin Wong, got a call from the Taj Hotel staff and was asked to turn her lights off, place a wet towel by her door, and never attempt to leave the room until further notice. I could imagine how horrible this experience could be.

Raging fire, explosions, black smoke, blood, panic and screams - Where has all the love gone?

Late in the evening, I saw mom and asked if she heard about the Mumbai terror. She nodded. I told her I was so frightened that this could also happen in our country. She inquired, "Why are you afraid of such thing? You should not fear anyone but the Lord."

I was dumbfounded. Mom was right. We can never predict what the future holds. It can be terrifying but come to think of it, I should know whom to trust. Our life is with the Lord, our only salvation.

Love and prayers
to all victims of the Mumbai tragedy.

one more top notch performer

Another everyday companion is my silver, 7.1 megapixel Canon Digital Ixus 750 named Pixie. It has 3x optical zoom lens and 2.5 inch LCD screen.

There are nine different scene modes for beginners and a more advanced Manual mode for those who want greater control. Thanks to its self-timer (2 seconds, 10 seconds and custom), I can also shoot a maximum of 10 shots with my friends or family anytime.

This pretty camera is perfect at taking photos with precision and clarity. I'll let the pictures do the talking.

Overall, Canon Ixus 750 is well-constructed with an ultra compact size and is one of the finest digital cameras that you should buy.

my first Pomegranate experience

Gilbert flipped out when he saw a bag of Pomegranate at SM Hypermarket last week. He was like a fulfilled deep-sea treasure hunter with his energetic smile glowing from ear to ear. He was telling me about this "mysterious" fruit several years back. Tasting it first when he was just seven, he searched here and there. He actually claimed buying a Pomegranate (Granada as they call it here in the Philippines) months ago but he insisted it was not the one he tasted as a young child. With a twinkle in his eyes, he was assuring me that it was the right fruit this time. It was a bit expensive (Php 350.00 for two pieces) but I couldn't resist Gilbert's pleading charm so I placed the plastic bag in our grocery cart without hesitation.

So we bought the fruit and true enough, the experience was rather amazing.

He was trying to do two things at the same time when we reached home - his right hand was quickly scanning through some online sites about Pomegranate and his left hand was itching to open the fruit. The reddish, leathery-skinned fruit is nearly round and crowned at the base, similar to a guava. He was very impatient so he opened it by cracking it into half with his bare hands, making a mess, squirting some of the juices. You'll notice a white, spongy covering. Remove that carefully and you'll be surprised to see lots of vivid red sacs filled with very sweet and juicy pulps.

He handed me the other half, reminding me not to swallow the sac because it has a small seed inside. I ate it just like how I eat oranges. His eating style was unique though. He popped out the seeds using his fingers (much the same as how you remove corn kernels from the cob), pierced and sipped all the juice in his mouth and then spit the tiny seeds. Eating it was such a mess but it was "bloody" awesome.

It took him only about three minutes to finish his part. I gave him a stern look then he laughed so hard. I know him so well and I know he wants to get a piece of my share. I'm certainly enjoying the fruit too so he's not getting any. Well, not really. I handed him a few pulps after a couple of seconds.

While we're both savoring our Pomegranate moment, I took the opportunity to search images online about the fruit that he bought months back. It turned out to be a Dragon Fruit. He must have gotten confused at that time because both fruits are roundish and red.

We then collected all the tiny seeds and our next goal now is to plant them. It's difficult to find Pomegranate in the Philippines. I'm curious why this amazing, nutricious fruit is not readily available in our local markets. It's a tropical fruit and I think it's best to plant them here. We're looking forward in growing them successfully so we don't need to ransack every market.

Thanksgiving Awakening

It's almost Thanksgiving. Although it is not much anticipated in the Philippines, I understand it's a time to express gratitude to God for a common purpose - usually for one's material and spiritual wealth. Most Americans prepare for this holiday with festive food and ambiance. There's obviously more to this holiday than feasting. Reflecting on what I have to be thankful for, I came to realize...

My career is not my only life. - Here's the math. I spend nearly 12 hours a day at work, 6-7 hours of sleep and only 4-5 hours for my husband/family/friends and spiritual moment. The smallest portion of my time is spent with the most important people in my life. This has been the case since 2005, after I got my promotion as a trainer. Don't get me wrong, I'm VERY thankful for my career but clearly, I can't keep it like this. Not now, not anymore.

The Lord's timing is always right and I don't need to be anxious. - There's a time for everything - cooking an elaborate meal, pressing on the car's brake pedal, hitting a shuttlecock or simply cracking a good joke. I am delighted with the Lord's flawless timing and I shall be eternally thankful for His presence in my life. Casting all my fears upon the Lord, I proclaim that He will provide what is best for me and Gilbert, in His time. Why should I worry when lilies of the field and the birds of the sky are cared for? How much more will our Heavenly Father take care of us? We have confidence in the Lord and we believe that He will grant us our little angel with His perfect love, in His perfect time.

The people I love can also hurt me. - I cherish friends and relationships. But I can't hide the fact that I'm stricken and wounded when people don't love me the way I love them. A close confidant is acting quite weird lately and a relative is showing insensibility and meanness. They're not the usual selfless, considerate, thoughtful people. It hurts me that they're indifferent but I try HARD to see the goodness in their hearts. Maybe, just maybe - they're passing through some personal struggles and I should not allow negativity to steal my peace and joy.

This Thanksgiving, I'll further examine my priorities, ask God's help in discerning what decisions to make and most certainly use these realizations to be a better me.

a boxing event

When I saw my brothers watching a boxing event with much rapt and intent yesterday, gladness filled my heart. I can vividly remember their growing up years - mimicking boxers, committing mayhem around the house with their energy, exuberance, and ardor not simmering down.

They grew up together yet their qualities are entirely distinctive. One is laid back and lighthearted and the other is a systematic leader, full of conviction. They have one thing in common though - their sense of humor (I think it runs through our veins). Evening dinner and chit chats won't be complete without their comic antics tickling every member of the family.

Now that they're both of age, I pray to the Lord that they remain generous, loving and happy. May they counterpunch life's trials, throwing a series of uppercuts at problems, just like a professional, disciplined boxer who is utterly undefeated by a unanimous decision.

Deep in my heart, I know they were raised to be responsible and courageous. If their opponent gets aggressive and throws a jab at them, there's no doubt that they can block or slip past them and respond with an inside power punch.

They are in-charge of their own lives but I'll still be here to love them - unfailingly.

more about my phone...

What cracks me up is that my dad, brothers and sisters are now wondering what I'll do with AiAi. My phone may be six year old but it really has a very few scratches and works perfectly well. They're hammering out a deal among themselves who gets to keep it.

I guess, they were encouraging me to upgrade to a newer phone all along because each one has a hidden desire for my Nokia 6310i.

Confessions of an addict

I am an addict.

I am addicted to love.

This should be the reason I've developed an insatiable "thirst" for Edward and Bella's story. I must admit. I am yet another victim of the novel Twilight (by Stephenie Meyer).

This is not your ordinary horrifying, gory vampire novel. The plot has a unique light than the blood-sucking horror they were in the past. No black coffins, no bats, no cob webs, nor freaky hairstyles. It is indeed a spellbinding romance and suspense which “will stay with you long after you have turned the last page.”

I can so identify with Bella’s insecurities, clumsiness, and her irrevocable passion for love. And Edward, He’s definitely one H.O.T. vampire. I like how Meyer described his constant struggle against the primal pull of Bella’s scent. He resisted every urge although the answer was evident - change her - he couldn't damn her soul.

Gilbert got me a LIT file (original Bella’s perspective) and I got another PDF file (Edward’s perspective) from a friend. So I've buried myself in the novel four times in the last five days - on my personal computer, my mom’s computer, my office computer, my sister’s laptop, or my hubby’s PSP.

With every single chance, I go back to the last page I’ve read and satisfy my addiction.

Still can't get enough of Edward and Bella.

I was begging for more.

I don’t think I’m ready to read Meyer’s second novel, New Moon. I want to linger on this moment for quite some time. Reading it was like a breath of fresh romantic air, leaving me with a shivery, thrilling feeling after.

I’m like floating on my natural high.

Nokia still wins my heart

I had a Nokia 6310i since 2002 and it did not disappoint me at all. It was one of the most impressive cellular phones at that time, brimming with technology that a business minded individual would need. I have abundant good memories with AiAi. (I name almost all of my things)

1. It has the ability to record sounds/voices with a maximum of two minutes. My ex-boyfriend, Gilbert (now my hubby) left me a secret message way back in 2003 and I still listen to it when I feel like listening to his voice.

2. The IR and Bluetooth capabilities also come in handy. Bonding time is "Snake" time with my brothers!

3. Its unbeatable battery life gives me much delight, knowing that it won't let me down today and the days after. It can go for a week (or more) without charging. In fact, I got in touch with my family when I was in India, Singapore, Malaysia and United States and never had a problem with connection.

4. It fits fairly in my pocket and easy to hold. I can bring it anywhere I go. When I need to buy some groceries, I only bring two things with me - cash and AiAi. I use the calculator feature and it keeps me within my budget.

5. It tirelessly wakes me up with its alarm every morning, reminds me what to do within the day and notifies me about special occasions with its reminder feature.

Regrettably, it is out of date for today's hot new phones. As you may already know, just about everybody in the Philippines has a cell phone. Even the unemployed, housewives, street vendors and young kids have one.

My close friends and family are teasing me about it for the longest time. They are all decided that I should upgrade. My dad and brothers enjoy spending evening dinners boasting that they're willing to buy it from me at Php500. No way! I bought it for Php16,000 in 2002. I defend myself and proclaim how useful it is for me. I tease them back saying they're just jealous of my iPhone (6310i). It may not have a built-in camera and the ring tone is monophonic but it still serves its purpose - I can make a call.

I tried sending a text message one day to a friend when the inevitable happened. AiAi froze. I stood still and I realized that "Oh, some good things never really last." I switched it off and turned it on again after a couple of minutes. It worked well after restarting it but I knew it was a sign.

The following weeks (or should I say months) were spent scouting for my next dear phone. It should still be Nokia. Definitely Nokia. I need a more reliable and smart phone, similar to AiAi or even better. Until I saw a perfect replacement for my veteran 6310i.

A shiny, gorgeous Nokia E71 caught my eye. It looks practical for someone with small, nimble fingers like mine.

After some thinking and persuasion from my family and close friends (again), I bought one a few days ago and I'm totally in-love with this miniature masterpiece.

Hello to Qwerty world! It was weird sending a text message on my first few attempts but I truly fancy the elegant, sleek design. With 3.2 megapixel camera, integrated wi-fi and GPS, 3G, memory card slot, large screen, adobe reader, polyphonic ring tones and quad band, what more can I ask for? It's like a pocket-sized laptop. I can check mails, surf the net, and download music anytime.

I'm so excited. I can't wait to make more precious memories with my new phone, Eva!

What I've done so far...

"Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom." - Laozi, Chinese mystic philosopher

Surfing the net today, I came across a compilation of fun, naughty, serious and inspirational things that any person could have done in their life. What a cunning way to know yourself better.

Mine are highlighted in red. Justified some of my revelations.

1. Flown a kite
2. Fallen asleep at work
3. Made a complete and utter fool of myself
4. Cheated while playing a game (adding spice to the game)
5. Attended at least one major sporting event
6. Felt an earthquake (it was terrible)
7. Been pushed into a pool/lake with all your clothes on
8. Skinny-dipped at midnight
9. Sent a message in a bottle
10. Touched a snake (life is short, touch a snake! make sure it's in a cage though)
11. Slept beneath the stars
12. Told someone the story of your life, sparing no details
13. Won a contest (no cheating this time)
14. Made love on a forest floor
15. Wrote a fan letter to your favorite celebrity (Shannen Doherty of BH 90210)
16. Hugged a tree
17. Lost over 20 pounds
18. Helped a stranger
19. Built your own PC from parts
20. Talked on the phone for more than 6 hours straight
21. Showered in a waterfall
22. Asked for a raise (I need a raise Dad!)
23. Sang a great song in front of an audience (well, it was great for me)
24. Used a fake ID
25. Spent a whole day reading a great novel (Twilight!!!!)
26. Learned to bartend
27. Not taken a shower for three days (after a major surgery, i just couldn't)
28. Fired a pistol, shotgun or rifle (Gilbert is a gun enthusiast)
29. Had more than 30 pairs of shoes at a time
30. Wrote your name on a public place (good old high school days)
31. Got up in a hot-air balloon
32. Collected stamps
33. Slept naked
34. Had feelings for someone who didn’t have them back (sob)
35. Been arrested
36. Slapped a person (he deserve it!)
37. Gone on a blind date
38. Had a threesome
39. Asked forgiveness from an enemy (It was hard but it felt good)
40. Farted in a crowded space (I'm human!)
41. Witnessed a crime
42. Been to a strip club
43. Met someone from the Internet in person
44. Made cookies from scratch (and cakes too!)
45. Gone backstage at a concert
46. Lain outside in the grass and watched cloud shapes go by
47. Spent a holiday alone
48. Been suspended from school
49. Had braces
50. Felt like an outcast
51. Eaten a whole pint of ice cream in one night
52. Had major surgery
53. Totaled a car (not much, thank God!)
54. Donated cash to an orphan shelter
55. Paid for a meal with only coins
56. Been to the opposite side of the world
57. Learned to Tango
58. Mentored someone at work
59. Cried yourself to sleep
60. Swum in the ocean
61. Created your Family Tree
62. Thrown up in a bar
63. Done something you told yourself you wouldn’t
64. Made prank phone calls
65. Fed a homeless man
66. Survived an accident that you shouldn't have survived
67. Cut down on clutter (once a month, at least)
68. Gone bungee jumping
69. Screamed in public
70. Had a one night stand
71. Kissed a mirror (applied lipstick - curious how my lips looked like)
72. Gotten your fingers stuck together with super glue
73. Volunteered at a home shelter
74. Shoplifted
75. Had a crush on a teacher
76. Pretended to be a superhero (i'm a wonder woman fanatic)
77. Played a guitar or piano
78. Been kissed under the mistletoe
79. Saved another person's life
80. Crashed a party
81. Seen a tornado
82. Wrote an article for a newspaper (The Voice - our town's local newspaper)
83. Drove a race car
84. Cooked a gourmet meal
85. Winked at a cute stranger
86. Hosted a big event at work
87. Been a cheerleader
88. Lied about your real age

Wow, my life's not that plain after all.

day one

My husband laughed to the highest heavens and called me a late bloomer when I told him I’m ready to start my blogging career. I kept a diary as a child and writing has always been my first love.

The last few years have been a shuffle of radical life events and I can't seem to catch my breath – getting a promotion, marrying my best friend, moving to an apartment as our new home, trying to conceive, losing a dear aunt, opening a water station business, transitioning to a new company. All of which require me enormous mental, spiritual and physical strength. Despite the hectic days and never ending demands, I know something is missing.

I was thinking that if I could start writing again, it would give me time to relax, express myself and connect with the real world. Hoping that this would help me focus on what truly matters to me. I want to appreciate love and treasure life.

I missed so many chances of making myself a better person, countless opportunities to show people I care about how I truly feel and moments that I could have shared my success to people dear to me.

Starting today, I’ll do what I love to do. I’ll do the things I always wanted to do and I’ll do the things that I thought I could never do.

So roll up your sleeves, brace yourselves and get ready as I venture the up’s and down’s of my life and my metanoia.