The Best Things In Life

There's a saying that goes "The best things in life are free." 

Some days, I'm 50/50 about it. 

I mean of course happiness can't be bought but getting your dream house or a vacation in Europe with your entire family can actually bring genuine joy, too. Money doesn't guarantee a happy life but, let's face it, it does help. Perhaps I'm saying this because lately I'm broke (sort of) despite my attempts to save up and it sucks.

On the other hand, as my 24th year of existence approaches, I've come to learn some things. Not science or math or those you get in school. I'm talking about the ones only life itself can teach you. And I've learned that if you stop to notice the things around you, no matter how small, you'd appreciate the world more.

Examples? Libraries. Or reader-friendly bookstores that let you take the plastic seals off their books and read them for free. Also, my friend Wendy and I have this guilty pleasure of hanging out in 7-Eleven just so we can listen to them play old school songs. Ah. Nothing beats an impromptu Backstreet Boys nostalgia. Then there's the free newspaper if you ride the LRT/MRT in the morning. Though you have to go extra gladiator to grab one among the mob of angry commuters, who for some reason still launch at the stand even when they're almost late. (Like me. Haha.) Which brings me to another point: Everybody loves freebies. 

There are things that people enjoy because it don't cost us a centavo like free food tastes in groceries or shampoo samples they hand out in malls but there are things that really are the best because they simply are. Such as nature- The breath-taking scenery of mountains, forests, and oceans. Sometimes I even find myself amazed just by watching cottony wisps of clouds rolling by. Nowadays, I find my Facebook newsfeed filled with rants about the stormy weather. But how many of us are thankful for sunny-windy days when they occur?

What else are the best free things in life? Our friends and families. We didn't buy them but they're our most valued treasures. The same goes to love and God. I'm sure these are what the person thought of when he came up with the saying. At the end of the day, they are what make us happy. At the end of our lives, these are what truly matter.

-Martha

...and Many More to Come!

I can't believe two years has passed since my sister Martha and I started writing or should I say, blogging. We have covered quite a lot of topics ranging from books, movies, sisterly bonding, to food. Most definitely, food. :P

I can't say that it was always easy coming up with an entry. I've had my bouts of tamad-itis (I've insisted it's writer's block). Besides, I work better under pressure (cramming maybe the more accurate term) writing two to three blogs in one sitting.

But it is always the same feeling after publishing a post. I'd feel elated, liberated, and proud that I was able to finish an 'article' (this is what Martha and I really call our blogs).

I would like to think (wish) that I'm getting better at this (because Martha is already great, I'm miles behind her). I also wish that we don't get tired of writing more blogs in the future. Happy Anniversary! :)


-Faye

Good News

Today, fayeandmartha reached a milestone by reaching a hundred blogs! :)

We've been putting thoughts to webpage (I would've said 'pen to paper') for two years now and although we're not widely viewed, I am very thankful. I feel a surge of special pride and joy for this but I feel more so for my beloved sister. 

Ate Faye often say that I'm a better writer than her but I beg to differ. I admire her courage to express her opinions, even if not everyone will agree. She doesn't just do reviews, she creates originals. She likes sharing her own ideas and adventures. Her entries give our site a more personal touch. I vow to follow her example more.

Writing keeps our minds healthy, I think, and we've grown since from our first ever blogs. Most of all, if I am to give our blog credit for anything, it brought the two of us closer. It gives me extreme comfort knowing we'll always have each other. Sharing this blog is one of the best decisions we've made. I hope our passion will last as long as our sisterhood. 

Raise your glass! :)

-Martha

Name Day

As I've said before, May is my favorite month of the year. Not just because it's the fiesta season or that the first rain of the year falls around this time but also because it's my name day month! Like everybody else, I look forward to having my own day. Which is to say, the day I was born.

Good haul this year! :)

Well, what's wrong with that really? Everyone greets me 'Happy Birthday!' as if I've done something really amazing, people around me makes me feel important so much so that they keep their criticisms and opinions (of moi) to themselves (for the day), they agree with everything I say, they praise me for no apparent reason, and the best bit is that I get presents!

Ah yes, the gifts. People I love honor my being alive and turning a year older by giving colorful, wrapped presents.  It may be big or small, expensive or cheap, useful or useless, may or may not be the thing I wanted but all the same I get to have something to appreciate. As they say: It's the thought that counts.

And isn't that great? When I think about it, it's okay if people don't pay attention to me 364days out of a year but that one day, that one special day, I want to feel as if that day belongs to me and nobody else's.

Well, of course this is untrue as there will be hundred million others celebrating their birthdays as well, but who cares? This is my day! :)

-Faye

Let's Go To The Beach

Based on a review I read about Villa Navarro, I wasn't too thrilled when I learned our company summer outing will be there. But when we arrived there last week, we were greeted by a friendly staff and quickly checked-in our rooms. Since we were sixteen in the group (including children) we occupied three executive rooms and a family cottage. Though rooms were a bit small and sparse in decorations they were clean and basic amenities were provided.

Lunch was already waiting for us after depositing our bags. It was simple but delicious. We had inihaw na porkchop, pritong bangus, and monggo with bagnet. They served ripe mangoes for dessert that were very sweet. The servers were attentive to our needs.

Afterwards, we changed into our swimsuits and took a dip in their pool where a watchful lifeguard supervised us. This was comforting esp. with kids around. The drawback was that they only let us use the pool until 8pm. This I believe was because the lifeguard gets off at 8pm, too. We were a bit disappointed but took consolation on the fact that we can swim in the beach which is a few yards away from the resort. However, that afternoon, the waves were just too big for us to enjoy it much.

Enjoying the scenery and having a blast with friends

At dinner, they served us sweet and sour fish fillet, beef nilaga, and diningding. For dessert, juicy watermelon. They were tasty and plenty to go around. We ate at the nipa hut near the beach. It was so relaxing to hear the waves crashing on the shore and feel the wind on our skin. This was what I came here for. 

A videoke machine was also set up in our nipa hut and we sang 'til the wee hours of the night. I hope we didn't bother anyone. Their bar also served us drinks like beer, gin, and cola.

The next morning, we took a stroll on the beach and watched stray dogs play. At some point some of them approached us but I didn't mind because I'm a dog lover. I also think it added to the appeal of the resort. 'Probinsyang-probinsya' comes to mind. They served us fried egg, longganisa Vigan, and garlic rice for breakfast. Fresh pineapple as panghimagas (dessert).

All in all, it was a great stay at this resort. The furniture could be improved/updated, the place/look could use a bit of sprucing up, and maybe longer hours on use of pool. I liked that the place is kept clean, has lots of trees, good food, polite staff (very prompt and accommodating), and its quiet and simple ambience. I also like that they seem animal friendly (I saw a guest check in with his dog).

I was apprehensive at first but now I could see myself coming back there.

-Faye

Location:

Villa Navarro Resort - Caba, La Union, Philippines

On Being Holy

At Monasterio de Santa Clara in Quezon City

I am not a very religious person but I do observe some traditions associated with my family's faith. Last March marked this year's Lenten season. Annually, my family and I would go to churches and pray. Primarily to atone one's sins and ask for forgiveness.

Mom & cousin Balu at St. Francis of
Assissi in Mandaluyong City

We were able to visit quite a number of churches and parishes during the Holy Week. Frankly, it's not how many you get to visit but how you immerse yourself in the experience and have your spiritual self be 'cleansed' and 'fed'. Well, that's just my opinion.

I consider this time to reflect on the things that happened, so far, in my life. How I reacted to some of my past misgivings or errors made.


Basically, this is when I make a promise or resolution to try and better myself. I'm also with my family when I do this so that's a plus factor.

Maybe this quote can sum up my prayers: 'Whatever I have in mind Lord, I surrender them to You. I will do the best I can but in the end, let Your will be done. Amen.'


-Faye

Beat the Heat

Summer is officially here in Manila. And it is hot! Not everyone welcomes this news with open arms (I'm one of them) but instead of being hot-headed about it (pun intended), I try to cool down with these:

1. Chowking's Halo-Halo (Regular w/ 1 scoop ice cream)

The more affordable and easily accessible choice to quench that summer heat. Shaved ice topped with pinipig (rice crispies), sago, gulaman (jelly), banana, leche flan, and ube ice cream.

Price: ₱ 76

2. Flavours of China's Buco Pandan Sherbet

Smooth buco pandan sherbet, gulaman, and pinipig. Simple ingredients but oh-so-flavorful treat! 

Price: ₱ 90






3. Icebergs' Super Halo-Halo

Their super finely shaved ice is topped with banana, sago, gulaman, corn flakes, leche flan, ube jam, macapuno balls, and two scoops of ice cream. Tell me your mouth is not watering.

Price: ₱ 108

4. Icebergs' Super Mais Con Hielo

Yellow sweet corn, corn flakes, and two scoops of vanilla ice cream swimming gloriously on top of their shaved ice. Yum, yum, yum!

Price: ₱ 118 

5. Icebergs' Caramel Flan Con Hielo

The best I've tasted this summer. Shaved ice embedded under ripe mangoes, creamy banana, soft macapuno balls, luscious leche flan, a scoop of their vanilla ice cream in the middle, and caramel sauce. 'Nuff said!

Price: ₱ 128

Summer has just begun so I have a feeling this blog entry may have a part 2 coming up. ;p

-Faye 


Location:
Chowking - MCU, Caloocan City
Flavours of China - 2/F The Block, SM North EDSA, Quezon City
Icebergs - 5 Timog Ave., South Triangle, Quezon City

How To Have A Great Time

I've always thought that Christmas season means parties, reunions, and get-togethers. Here's the run down of some of my holiday events:

Dress to the nines

Office Christmas Party:
It's not just about the food, drinks, or gifts but also a chance to let your hair down, let loose, and be merry with your co-workers whilst in a party mood. Add in the mix a loud and crazy exchange gift portion and the annual videoke night! Oh, yeah!
Not to mention the opportunities for 'picture-picture'. ;)


L-R: Lei, Jen, Erika, & Aprielle

At Dapo Restaurant and Bar

School Reunion:
After taking in how much everybody changed or stayed the same, it's nice to catch up with classmates you haven't seen in a long time. Don't forget that booze and music is never a bad combination especially in good company. Cheers!

Standing: Alona (of Music@ts), Kathryn, Che;
Seated: Lorie, Weng, Jo

Dimsum Break

Family Get-together:
Nothing beats last minute Christmas shopping to work up an appetite. It's also a nice way to bond and have long chats with your loved ones then tucking in to a yummy sampler of your favorite dishes. More Hakao please! ;P

Clockwise: Bacon Sio-mai, Yang-Chao Fried Rice, Original Steamed Fried Rice, Hakao, Crab Pincers, Empress Roll


After all the parties and celebrations, I'm sad to say good-bye to 2012 but I welcome 2013 with open arms! Happy New Year! :)

-Faye

Location:
Dapo Restaurant and Bar - 31 Scout Borromeo St., Brgy South Triangle, Quezon City
Dimsum Break - 3rd Flr The Annex, SM North EDSA, Quezon City

Up with the Sickness

I am sick and yes, still blogging. I had a fever last night and when I woke up this morning, I'm still a bit febrile. But you know what? With all the sore throat and sore muscles going on, instead of feeling crappy, I actually feel great! I've realized that being sick has its benefits, too. I made a list of reasons why:

1. You can take time off from work and not be guilty about it. It's not like you woke up late or you're too lazy... You have a real excuse this time. Haha.

2. Breakfast in bed. Need I say more? Thank you, Mom! :)

3. The special treatment you get. I have to admit, I secretly enjoy the pampering, attention, and 'get well soon' wishes. Hey, even my meanie brother is extra nice to me!

4. Comfort foods! That warm noodle soup or a bowl of your favorite fruit just tastes so much better when you're feeble. Sometimes, when you have a poor appetite, they'd give anything just to make you eat. Even your sinful cravings. Luckysonovabits.

5. You can keep track of your own time. No schedules! You can take a bath only when you want to. You can watch TV all day. You can sleep all day. You get my drift.

6. Weight loss. This is a case to case basis. Illnesses can cause unintentional weight loss at times. It has to do with an increased usage of energy when we're sick. For those who've been dieting to no success, don't deliberately make yourself sick now, okay?

Of course, these luxuries have its limit. You can't be unwell forever. You won't enjoy that, surely. The point of the things I've mentioned above is that you don't get to experience it often. And when you recover and go back to normal the next day, you're still a winner! You get to celebrate life and health. 

But for now, I'll bask in the glories of this rare opportunity.

-Martha

When Tablet is Not a Tablet Anymore

When I first heard the word Tablet or Tab, I quickly thought of tablet or tab. Confusing? Well, not really but in my line of work this conundrum may arise more often than you can imagine. So humor me and let me explain that a Tablet is a mobile computer, bigger than a cell phone with touch screen while a tablet is a dosage form one takes when one is sick.

You see, I've recently acquired such a gadget. Though I'm not a techie or anything, I do enjoy learning (nothing bad about owning, too) about new stuff as much as the next person. I will not use much technical terms but this Tab boasts of its Super AMOLED Plus display, the latest Android version, and its light and sleek aluminum body design... In short, the whole kit and caboodle.

This tool alone is a computer, mobile phone, camera, gaming console, library (my favorite feature), audio and video player, and a lot more rolled into one thingamajig. I've had this thing for about a week now but I don't think I've scratched the surface (no pun intended) of its numerous features.

I am continuously fascinated with how our world is being changed (and sometimes dictated) by technology. It is so fast-paced that a new version of the same gadget is on the market in just a few months' time. So technologically advanced that new applications are being invented every day. So cutthroat, this business, that tech companies are suing each other left and right. So lucrative that every advertisement on TV, newspaper, and the internet is about the latest product.

Hmm... I wonder what the next invention will be? Truth be told, I'm crossing my fingers for a time machine. Haha!

-Faye

A Friendly Visit

Last September was my 1st time to visit Zamboanga City. We were scheduled to stay for a week so I was excited to experience another side of our culture. But it was again for work and if history is to repeat itself, I knew I will not be seeing much of the place. I was right. I was mostly at the training site doing what I came there to do.

With Ate Malou and Ate Eppie

I was resigned to being serious and had a 'let's get down to business' mindset that I was surprised when my colleagues reminded me that we will be seeing Ate Eppie and Ate Malou later.

A few years ago, our group conducted a seminar in Cagayan de Oro and they were participants there. Because the group was small, we had more time to get to know one another. Our conversations transcended from work topics to stories of our families. It was also in CDO that we went river rafting. Most of us were first timers so that bonding made it more special.

Speakers-a-posing

Ate Eppie invited us to dinner with her husband. We later met the rest of her family when she took us for a short visit to her beautiful house. We saw them again for the seminar's 'Fellowship Night'.

I did visit the city's market called 'Barter' (I bought a couple of locally made scarves) and the seminar was great but seeing my friends again was the highlight of this trip for me. :)


-Faye

A Celebration of Sorts

If you told me a year ago that I could write, I'd probably answer you with: 'I'm just a reader not a writer. Go bug Martha.' She was her school paper's editor-in-chief (a good one at that), the family scribe and has always been passionate about it.

But then last summer, she had this harebrained idea that we should keep a blog together. She needed a project and pulled me along with it. I didn't know what to think of it, at first. But you know what? I'm glad she did. If it weren't for her I wouldn't have discovered how fun (and liberating) it is to express myself through writing. She helped me unleash another side of me I never would have known.

So, congrats to you dear sister! Here's to one year of working together and to more years of it! Thank you and I love you very much!

-Faye

Think Blots

I'm an introvert. It's not that I don't like mingling with people. Of course I do. But I find it just as enjoyable sitting by my own at home, reading or pondering about things. Sometimes it's hard to express them through speaking. Instead, I rather put it into writing. In all forms, that is.

As a kid, I'd write on our walls with crayons. A few years more, I scribbled entries on my diary. (Dear Diary, I saw my crush today... Haha!) I wrote essays and reaction papers for school; Poems and articles for the school newspaper. My mind was bursting with ideas for potential short stories and novels in the making.

But then college came. I was persuaded to take up a course on Science. Suddenly, I stopped writing. I believe I was disheartened. The girl who always dreamed of becoming a writer took a different path. All I could think of was, 'I'm not meant to be one.'

BUT I WAS WRONG. Yes, I ended up in the medical field (And proud of it!) but it doesn't mean I can't be other things as well. My sister, whose profession is related to mine, never thought she could write either but here we are, aren't we? I've come to realize that writing is a privilege and a right. Anyone can be a writer as long as with passion.

We're very blessed to be able to publish our works easily nowadays. Today, Ate Faye and I celebrate our blog's first anniversary. Cheers to writing! :)

-Martha

Why I Became an FB Resister

'Hi! My name is Faye and I am a Facebook addict.' This could have been my introduction in a rehab facility for FB addicts. Well, if such a place exist, I mean.

There were over 800 million FB users when I decided to quit it cold turkey style. First to notice that I'm MIA (Missing in Action) were my gaming friends. They were worried about me and asked my sister for my whereabouts and my general 'well-being'. At first I was touched that they care so much but then I realized they're probably just curious why I haven't sent them the 'gift' or 'energy bar' they asked me. :) Just because they can't find me in Facebook doesn't mean I'm not okay. Sheesh!

Then my RL (Real Life) friends started to text or e-mail me. Some asked if everything's okay or 'Why haven't you been in FB? Why?' Some even gave me the cold shoulder for a while because they thought I 'un-friended' them. That last one made me laugh. :D I have to reassure them that we're still friends even if I'm not using FB anymore.

The thing is, I've outgrown Facebook. It's ironic because the reasons I stopped are the ones that got me to use it in the first place. The thrill of finding old friends, to catch-up on each other's lives, then you keep in touch, and before you knew it you're being updated with every single thing that has happened to them since they wake up in the morning 'til they say 'Good night! Time for some shut-eye!' I'll give you something to shut your eye. Just kidding.

Don't get me wrong, I love catching up with my friends but when is information shared became too much information? People in FB love posting pictures: of themselves, places visited, friends met with, meals ate, and most especially of their love ones. One classmate even posted a picture of his toddler son taking a bath! He became too complacent and comfortable in Facebook that he didn't think it inappropriate. You're also compelled to click the 'like' button whenever your friends post something otherwise they may think you didn't like it. Hahaha!

One of my many (cringe-worthy)
profile pics. Narcissism much?

In some weird (or convenient) way FB has also become a place for self-promotion. One FB friend posted everything she owned. Every bag, shoes, and gadget she'd ever gotten. Alright! I'm not without a hint of envy when she paraded them before my eyes. But maybe this is the real reason she posted them in the first place? A sort of status symbol for her, if you will.

You know what the saddest part is? I did all of those, too. I posted things I did, places I've been to, and created album after album of pictures I can't even remember. I also wasted tons of time playing FB games. Well, truth be told it did de-stress me during those times (until later when it didn't).

Facebook has become a way of life that we seem lost when we did not log-in on it, at least once a day. We forget that there are other ways of communication. Like phone calls (land line or cell), text messages, e-mails, or even snail mails (people still use this, right?)

I treasure the friendships I've made through Facebook and I'm not saying that those who still use it should stop. I'm just proud to say that I'm 100 days sober and counting.


-Faye

Unexpected Happiness

Every year on my birth month, May, I try to do something special for myself. This year however I was to be away from my family and friends... For work (Surprise!Surprise!). On my birthday, my colleagues (from TWG) and I went to Baguio City, a few hundred miles from Manila.

Flowers & scarves

I was determined to make the day as regular as possible and not think of it as 'my day'. To be honest though I was a little bit down but tried to fight through it by being 'positive'. I made a mental list of why I should be thankful instead: I have my family, health, work, and friends. Plus, I'll be meeting new people and I owe it to them to be the best speaker I can be. They traveled far and will be away from their loved ones, too.

I was pleasantly surprised when my colleagues greeted me and later presented me with a dozen red roses and colorful scarves! I didn't think they'd remember my birthday and I was truly touched. Thanks, everyone!

Faye & Faye

Another speaker and my roommate in this trip is also named Faye! It was the first time I met her but she said she knew me already by sight. You see, our workplace is just a few buildings apart. As the days went on, I found out we have quite a few things in common, aside from our names. I'm glad to say I made a new friend.

To top it all, our seminar was a success! Life sometimes has a funny way of presenting itself. What started as a lonely journey turned out to be a happy, memorable one.


-Faye

Are You Online?

Ever wondered what life would be like if the internet didn't exist? I hate to admit it but I don't. You see, I've lived half of my life without it. Now it seems that the world would stop spinning if the 'World Wide Web' (this was how it was first known) is gone.

I remember the days when I have to do my homework or research using the trusty, old encyclopedia or I go to a library to use the card catalog (remember this?) to find the book I wanted. These days however, with just a click of a button, all the information I needed (and didn't need) is in front of me! My encyclopedia was replaced by Wikipedia! Yes, studying has been elevated  to the next level. Teachers could now post assignment on their web page and students just email them their answers. No biggie.

Communication also hasn't been the same since the dawn of the 'online era'. Just recently, I reconnected with a childhood friend through the social networking site called Facebook. I have lost touch with her for about 25 years and she tracked me there. The beauty of such site is that people can easily find you. The downside though is that well, people can easily find you.

I got this drawing from (where else?) the internet :)

But the internet doesn't just let you reacquaint with an old friend, you can also meet new people or maybe even The One. I'm talking about online dating. I was a witness to a story where a friend of mine met her future husband at a match-making site! This may be a foreign idea to some but its quite a common occurrence on the net, really.

The internet can now also be used to showcase your talent (or lack thereof). Have you heard of Justin Bieber? He was discovered on YouTube. A video of him was posted doing his stuff and voila! Superstardom! Or if you're the entrepreneurial type, there's eBay for you. You can buy and sell anything and everything under the sun on that website.

Not all though is about silliness or goofing around; The latest news around the globe is delivered in sites like CNN and BBC, they're on 24hours a day.

The internet has revolutionized our way of living that we sometimes think we can't function without it. Heck, even my 4-year-old niece, Sophie, uses it! But we also have to be careful on how we actually use it. Remember, everything we put in it will be recorded, reported and re-posted, forever.

Logging-off!

-Faye

Ode to My TWG

A few years back, I met a society of women that influenced me in more ways than one. It all began when I was invited to join a technical working group (TWG) assigned to revise a twenty year old manual. Although I was eager to work on the project and I knew a few of them, I was also feeling a bit hesitant and overwhelmed to be working with such an accomplished people. It didn't help to know that I was the youngest of the group.

Posing in front of the Mayon Volcano & Cagsawa Ruins

The TWG was headed by our adviser, Ms. Neri. She is firm but hers is the tone that set the camaraderie that binds us all.  And on our first official meeting she whisked us away to an out-of-town river lodge. We stayed there for a number of days brainstorming and discussing the outline of the manual. It was also the first time I get to know these ladies. My roommate was Ms. Cynthia. I was immediately set at ease by her friendly demeanor and her spunky attitude. She also had the most baggage because of all the reference books she brought with her! Later I was also introduced to the rest of the group.

Almost a complete group picture...

Bhe, I was surprised to learn, has three children, the eldest in high school! To be honest she looks even younger than me! Not only do I think she's cool, she's also very kind. Then there were Ate Amie and Ate Helen, who among the group looked to be friends already. Ate Amie doesn't beat around the bush to get her points across but becomes soft when talking about her lovely daughter. She's very forthcoming and became almost like my older sister. Ate Helen is like the 'mommy' of the group. She lightens the mood with her infectious laugh and positive outlook in life but gets us teary-eyed whenever we made her tell her pang-telenovela life story.

 Ate Ella, I thought was quiet but gives sound, practical advice. Her face lights up every time she talks about her children and would always invite us to her family gatherings. Ate Lani and Ate Anabel were with the group for a short while so I didn't get to know them very well but I can tell they are nice and pleasant people.

River rafting in CDO

 Ate Ime, I rarely get to talk to now but is always there to help me. I would call her at the office asking for help about work and she always delivers. Last to join us was Ate Neng. Now this lady has a no-nonsense approach on work. Give her a job and she'll finish it with aplomb and in no time. She's not easily bothered by senseless gossip but is willing to stay up late just to hear my views on things and such.

There were many more of these distant location meetings, workshops and training but I realized that I'm not only enriching my mental and career pursuits but I'm also learning a lot more about life. These women are good mothers, wives, daughters, sisters, friends and leaders. They taught me to value my work and live life as it should be. So I tell myself: "when I grow up I wanna be just like them". :)

Thank you, ladies!


-Faye