shattered image

CONTEST: Chase Beautiful Things-: Flavored Kissmarks

2011-11-25T09:39:00.000+08:00

A smack-tastic contest from the awesome Kumiko Mae featuring Nivea Philippines lip care products!

Do check out the link for more details. This contest is open internationally and up until December 15, 2011.

-Chase Beautiful Things-: CONTEST (Open Internationally): Flavored Kissmarks...: Like this post if you love lip balms! Remember when I blogged about Flavored Kisses I mentioned my next lip treat would be about a giveawa...

A hot and heavy September treat from Style Attempt!

2011-09-12T10:05:00.001+08:00

Style Attempt just came out with a Saucy September Giveaway! There will be 3 winners for this fabulous contest! Join now and to get more details!

FIRST PRIZE:

A top from Nothing Less Awesome

A lootbag from SM-GTW

One bottle of Lorys Hair Cream (1kg)

A copy of MAVEN Magazine

Accessories from Mia Casa

SECOND and THIRD PRIZE

A copy of MAVEN Magazine

Accessory from Mia Casa

In order to qualify for this contest, you need to follow ALL of the 4 Steps!

Follow Style Attempt in Facebook AND Google Friend Connect (1 point each)
Follow her giveaway sponsors SM GTW, MAVEN MAGAZINE, and LORYS (1 point each)
Tweet (1 pt) / Blog (1 pt) / Share (2pts) this giveaway. Don’t forget to tag @styleattempt (for FB posts) or @ayeenregalado (for Tweets)
Comment on this post in this format:

NAME: (Insert Name Here)
EADD: (Insert E-add Here)
SAUCY SEPTEMBER: (Insert the steps you’ve accomplished)

***

Notes:

This contest giveaway ends on Sept 30, at 11:59 am.
Only one entry per person.
Winners must contact Style Attempt within 48 hours after the announcement.
No need to tag giveaway sponsors

PinoyRecipe.net’s Gadget Giveaways!

2011-09-09T11:38:00.000+08:00

PinoyRecipe.net’s Gadget Giveaways

PinoyRecipe.net will be giving away GADGETS to its lucky readers on October 31, 2011! This promo is sponsored by the Philippines Tech and Gadget Reviews – AspireSearchMarketing.com!

The coveted Gadgets are:

1st Prize: (1 unit) Apple Ipod Shuffle
2nd Prize: Sun Cellular Broadband Internet USB Modem with Free 45 hours or US$30 Gift Card via Amazon
3rd Prize: (1 unit) Logitech Wireless Mouse M215 or US$20 Gift Card via Amazon
Consolation Prize: 3 pieces PinoyRecipe T-Shirts to 3 PinoyRecipe.net’s readers.

(This contest is a world-wide contest; other country residents will receive their Apple Ipod Shuffle via Amazon.com and the other Gadgets will be replaced with an Amazon Gift Card).

Contest Mechanics: (Please follow the Contest Mechanics and Contest Rules carefully to avoid disqualification of entries)

Required Steps to join the contest:

1] Subscribe to the new PinoyRecipe Newsletter Don’t forget to validate your email subscription. ( we abandon our Feedburner email newsletter, we are now using MailChimp mailserver. If you are not receiving newsletters from “MailChimp mailserver” then you need to subscribe here). If you’re already an email subscriber please proceed to step #2
2] Become a fan of PinoyRecipe.net on Facebook. If you’re already an FB fan, please proceed to step #3
3] Become a fan of Philippines Tech and Gadget and Reviews on Facebook. If you’re already an FB fan, please proceed to step #4
4 ] Fill up the OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM here. (Step 1 & 4 = 8 entry points)

Bonus Points:

1] In your Facebook status message tag Pinoy Recipe. ( 3 entry points ) Here’s the tag information:

Like @Pinoy Recipe and Win these Gadgets, Apple iPod Shuffle, Sun Cellular Broadband USB Modem or Logitech Wireless Mouse

2] Blog about the contest – (8 entry points). You can copy this SAMPLE BLOG POST (click here to view). Please make sure that the sponsors link and the link back to this post is working or your entry will be disqualified.
3] Follow PinoyRecipe.net on Twitter (2 entry points)
4] Tweet this giveaway on your own Twitter Account(3 entry points)

Copy and post this to your Twitter account:

Join PinoyRecipe’s Gadget Giveaways and Win an Apple iPod Shuffle, SunCellular USB Modem or Logitech Wireless Mouse http://bit.ly/pJxVWA

CONTEST RULES:

1. Contestants are required to do everything under Required Steps.
2. Only one (1 ) Twitter accounts is allowed. ( You can twit this contest only once on your account)
3. Multiple Blog post is also allowed on different blog sites (if you have many blog sites you can post this contest on your blogs, one post for each blog, your blog site must be 3 months old newly created blog site will be ignored )
4. If you are not a Blogger but you have a Facebook account this is your chance to get more raffle entry points. You can daily update your FB Status and earn 3 entry points for each update. Just type in this message (or copy paste) in your FB status:

Like @Pinoy Recipe and Win these Gadgets, Apple iPod Shuffle, Sun Cellular Broadband USB Modem or Logitech Wireless Mouse

Tip: You can have a Total of 24 Entry Points if you will do all the Mechanics and Bonus Points at the start, but you can still add more entry points if you will daily update your Facebook Status by tagging this contest.

The PinoyRecipe.net’s Gadget Giveaways starts September 5 and ends on October 31, 2011. All entries should be in by midnight (Philippine Time). Each point is equivalent to one raffle entry that will be put into the list of entries (more points = more entries). The winner will be chosen using Random.org’s List Randomizer and will be announced the following day, November 1st.

What are you waiting for? Join now!

Review: groOrganic's Garden Planner (30-day free trial)

2011-08-11T11:11:00.002+08:00

Want a better and healthier tomorrow? groOrganic! groOrganic commits itself to improving the lives of families one squarefoot of gardening at a time! Passionate about the organic lifestyle, they dedicate themselves to living, breathing, and eating organically!

Organic products are available in grocery stores, but more often than not, the cost of transporting these goods takes its toll on the nutrition value of the produce, its flavor, and the price of goods sold. We can all learn to properly growing and maintaining our own fresh organic garden patch by supporting the goOrganic movement, and ensuring that the produce we have are safe, readily-available, fresh, and nutritious!
Of course, for a lot of us, going organic will take several steps; we can start by purchasing organic produce, to subscribing to and supporting the groOrganic International Educational and Self-sufficiency movement!
groOrganic offers easy and up-to-date methods on maintaining an organic garden. The groOrganic's Garden Planner:

Provides an easy and personalized lay-out for your vegetable garden
Adapts to your needs and gardening lifestyle (e.g., row planting, raised beds, square foot gardening)
Contains a database of over 5000 weather stations
Offers a ready-to-print personalized planting chart
Sends email reminders for maintenance purposes

Enjoy the convenience of having your own groOrganic garden and a support system that will help you live a healthier and happier organic lifestyle!

How to CONTACT groOrganic:
The groOrganic Corporate office is located at at PO Box 8113, Anaheim, CA 92812. They may be contacted toll-free through 888-9-gro-Organic or 888-947-6674, or email them at info@groOrganic.com. You may also visit groOrganic's local outlets in New York, Florida, and California.

You may also consider ADDING groOrganic to your social networks: Facebook | Twitter | Flickr | YouTube | groBLOG

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Review: Hawaiian Luau Party Ideas eBook

2011-08-11T09:35:00.000+08:00

From Ashley Cotter-Cairns at http://www.python-printable-games.com/fun-printable-games-ezine.html, the “Say Aloha to Great Hawaiian Luau Party Ideas” eBook is a simple 22 page document that contains the basics for creating a Luau-themed party.

The eBook copyrighted in 2011 by Python Printable Games contains a few printable invitations, decoration tips, cake, costume and food ideas as well as a couple of party games and luau drink recipes.

This simple and full color document is easy to understand and short enough to read through. Read the entire thing in less than 2 minutes (with distractions :D).

It also has click-able links to websites that can help you in your Luau party, sister-page links, and trouble-free and fun ideas to make a Luau party a hit.

“Say Aloha to Great Hawaiian Luau Party Ideas” eBook tells it like it is – a party idea ebook. Although helpful, visually appealing, and user friendly – be a friend to the environment and don’t print it out unless it’s extremely necessary. Please know that this eBook is given free to anyone who signs up for the Python Printable Games Newsletter.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

eBook Review: Survival of the Smartest

2011-07-11T15:38:00.001+08:00

Got to browse through Aaron Turpen’s eBook, “Survival of the Smartest: The First 72 Hours” - and I have to say, I’m sure glad that I read it!

At 49 pages, for an eBook whose author I barely knew, I was kind of hesitant to read it – I kept putting it off because I really didn’t have the time. Well today, I made time and I’m happy that I did, because Aaron had put on paper the common sense rules for emergencies in that nifty 49-page document!

It contained helpful tips on what to do during emergencies and how to be prepared for natural disasters, e.g., floods, earthquakes, tornados, hurricanes. It also contained preparedness tips such as creating a 72-hour bug out bag and a disaster supply kit.

To my surprise, the eBook was quite “readable” – it didn’t feel like a chore to read, the material itself was light and I didn’t feel depressed after reading it. In fact, I felt quite “empowered” – because it contained things that normal and ordinary people can do given such situations occurred.

People easily lose their heads during emergencies – normally sane people would do insane things, some clearly stupid, some quite heroic – all the same, insane. But “Survival of the Smartest” offers the reader something else – practicality.

We always talk about being prepared, so here it is. Be prepared by reading the book. The link for the book’s sales page is available at http://truth2america.com/read-this-e-book/read-this-e-book/.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Review: Printable Luau Party Games Pack!

2011-06-10T13:06:00.003+08:00

The Luau Party Games Pack from www.python-printable-games.com definitely packs a hawaiian punch! (pun intended)

A great way to turn up the heat at any hawaiian-themed party! It includes invitations, paper dolls, mad libs, trivia, ice-breakers, coloring games for the kiddies, and so-so-so much more! This party pack gives you great ideas... and adds-on to your existing party plans worry-free and without even breaking a sweat.

The Printable Luau Party Games Pack from python-printable-games really is a big help for any budding event planner - is gives great tips, visuals, and is easy to read.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com created by WebBizIdeas.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Baby Bond Couture: Be an Undercover Mother

2011-06-07T15:05:00.003+08:00

Not to alarm any of my close friends - dearies, I am not infanticipating - but just because I'm not expecting right now doesn't mean I shouldn't look forward to becoming a fashion forward mommy.

I found the Barcelona charcoal gray bond couture nursing cover at babybondnursing.com and fell in love with the color, the style, and its over all look. I love how the nursing covers really does just cover mom and not the baby. I believe that breastfeeding is strictly between mother and child - and although there is nothing wrong with doing it in public - I feel that a bit of privacy is needed for such an intimate interaction.

BabyBand Couture Barcelona Gray

BabyBond Couture covers are made of 100% machine washable cotton so you can be sure that it'll be just as gentle on your baby as it is on you. The material adjusts to your body (a plus!) and can act as a nursing top and a belly band. It's as fashion friendly as it is user friendly - the instructions on how to use it are in the beautifully crafted box it comes in, the inner tags, and also available online. In a rush to put it away? No worries! Either fold it or roll it up into a self-storing pouch. Easy as pie!

BabyBond also has the BabyBond Original and BabyBond Flex lines - so you choose the style that suits you. I received my BabyBond product more than a month after I requested it - but this is a post office concern and not BabyBond's fault. Their website says that available items are shipped within two (2) business days, and the nice thing about BabyBond is the personal care that they take to make sure that you are informed of your product/order.

The corporate address of BabyBond is at 253 Beach 129th Street, Belle Harbor, New York 11694 USA. They may be contacted at 973 222 6609 (phone) or 718 474 0213 (fax), and their customer service email address is customerservice@babybondnursing.com. I would, however, suggest you drop by their website first to check out the designs and find out more about this wonderful company. Also, if you aren't from the US, you might like to know that they are immediately available in boutiques (online) in these countries: Australia, Canada, Dubai, France, Germany, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, and the UK.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com created by WebBizIdeas.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

TshirtPrinting.net: Monkey Tee

2011-05-26T16:54:00.002+08:00

Just received my Monkey Tee – in gray – from Martin of TshirtPrinting.net this week, and I have to say, I love it!

I saw the offer to test the product online a month ago, signed up for it, and picked the item up from the city post office. Note: I had a few problems with the post office but this is strictly their issue and not TshirtPrinting.net’s fault.

I seldom get shirts online because of my sensitive skin concerns – is the material too hot, is it too flimsy, will I get a rash?! But when I got my tee from TshirtPrinting.net, it was a pleasant surprise to find the fabric to be smooth and cool on the skin. Quality shirts indeed! I had initially requested for an extra large size – but since Martin informed me that their sizes are quite large and I might want to go down a size - I did, so I got a large one.

Close-Up: Monkey T-shirt Design ^_^ Gazing into the depths of your soul

The Monkey shirt design itself was very nice – with the psychedelic monkey head print complimenting the gray shirt material. The design was very clear, the colors were vibrant, and the print itself seemed durable even as I furiously scrubbed it.

TshirtPrinting.net offers screen printing in a variety of colors, designs and materials – they do Mens, Ladies and Kids t-shirts, Hoodies, Sweatshirts, Vests, Workwear and other Customized clothing!

Aside from the personalized designs, I greatly appreciate the personalized service that they provide – worlds apart and they made the effort to reach me to find out size concerns that I might have. This clearly shows that they are serious about doing good business.

For more details, you may get in touch with TshirtPrinting.net at 0800 046 7633. Their office is at Unit 26, Enterprise Ind Est, Woodburn Rd, Sheffield, S9 3JL (in the UK).

Updates to follow! - :)

Drowning Equilibriums: Big Summer Giveaway: Official Contest Page

2011-05-10T16:11:00.000+08:00

The excellent Aisa Paxie offers a BIG SUMMER GIVEAWAY at her blog - Drowning Equilibriums! Fabulous prizes will be given away to not one, not two, but 5 (4 local and 1 international!) lucky followers!

All you have to do is check out the Drowning Equilibriums: Big Summer Giveaway: Official Contest Page and follow the mechanics, specifically:

(1) Follow via Google Connect or Bloglovin'
(2) Answer: Which of the prizes would you like to win? Make sure to include your name, location and email address in the comments form.
(3) For additional entries: follow/add all the sponsors listed and repost the contest deets on her twitter account (@paxieness), facebook (@drowningequilibriums) or in your own personal blog.

Follow instructions and maybe, just maybe, you can be the lucky follower who'll bring home a prize-set ;)

Hot Summer Giveaway from LEVYousa.com!

2011-04-12T13:50:00.000+08:00

Get ready for some Summer lovin'!

Levy, of LEVYousa.com fame has an on-going Summer Contest Give Away! Here's your chance to win 2 Vouchers (valued at PhP2,000 each) for Underarm Laser Hair Removal at Le Californian Beau!

In order to qualify:

Follow LEVYousa through Google Friend Connect
Like LEVYousa in Facebook
And do any of the following:

Post this statement on your FB wall "Have a chance to win 2 vouchers for Underarm Laser Hair Removal worth P4,000 at @LEVYousa" (make sure that you've properly tagged @LEVYousa).
Blog about this contest and linking back to Levy's blog.

Good luck to all followers! Rock and Roll!

Little Miss Dress Up Blog Summer Giveaway 2011!

2011-04-12T12:06:00.000+08:00

Little Miss Dress Up is at it again with a fabulous sizzling Summer Giveaway! By following Little Miss Dress Up on twitter, facebook, and follower her blog via Google Friend Connect and BLOGLOVIN' - TWO followers will get TWO items from the ARANAZ Summer 2011 Collection!

Visit the link for more details :)

Get ready for a hot, hot, hot Summer!

Twinners Reviews & Giveaways CANON Powershot A495 Giveaway!

2011-04-11T15:41:00.003+08:00

Twinners Reviews & Giveaways has a special treat in store for its followers! In celebration of achieving its 1000th follower on Google and Twitter (soon!!!), Twinners will be giving away a CANON Powershot A495 Digital Camera!

Note that this special giveaway will only take effect once Twinners has reached 1000 followers in both Google AND Twitter. There are things to do to qualify for the giveaway, so visit the site in order to get the details.

This is one totally exciting giveaway!

Promo: Big Outlet Sale by Malibu Enterprises from Trip or Treats!

2011-04-11T12:47:00.002+08:00

It's BIG... it's HUGE... it's MASSIVE! The Biggest Outlet Sale of the Year!
Trip or Treats has posted a blog entry in the link here.

Visit Trip or Treats to find out how you can get to join the BIG Outlet Sale by Malibu Enterprise for free!

This is going to be one EPIC ride!!!

Space

2011-04-01T16:36:00.003+08:00

The space between us is real.
A bag in between,
a purse,
a pillow,
thick, suffocating, air…
As if skin touching was such an offense.
As if minds meeting were so taboo.
Always preoccupied with something else,
That being with me, loving me, becomes an after thought.
The space between us is real.
And it seems, I, am not.

2011 (c) Vida Antoniette M. Cuaresma

Lying

2011-04-01T16:36:00.001+08:00

Awake
I lie to you
Pretending
My world is
Perfect

Asleep
I lie with you
Dreaming
My world was
Better

2011 (c) Vida Antoniette M. Cuaresma

Chasing After Loose Threads

2011-04-01T16:35:00.002+08:00

Loose threads
Loose threads
Chasing after you

Empty hands
Grasping, failing

Wide eyes
Tearing

Losing loose threads
Losing (Lost) you

2011 (c) Vida Antoniette M. Cuaresma

Image and Likeness

2011-02-08T07:26:00.003+08:00

Verse:
"Let us make man in our image, after our likeness" (Book of Genesis)

Reflection:
Earlier today I posted that as my FB status followed by "whose likeness then is in the thieves who ransack houses? in rapists? in murderers? in generals and their family who steal from the people who lay their lives for our country? in abusive employers and administrators? in corrupt politicians and officials?"

I couldn't get the verse out of my head. I just couldn't. So I reflected further on it and reflected on my post as well. Trying to wrap my brain around it, I asked myself, "do others see God in you?".

That question floored me. I realized that I kept trying to find God in others... but wasn't sure if others could find God in me. I keep trying to find the good in people, but am I showing the goodness of God through my own actions and words?

Yes, we live in a world where child-like innocence will be shattered, and trust will be abused. But instead of trying to find good people, why not be a good person? In wanting the world to become a better place, why not try to be a better person? It begins with one. It begins with changing myself. Today I start the change I want to see.

One La Salle Prayer:
Let me be the change I want to see, to do with strength and wisdom all that needs to be done... and become the hope that I can be.

Set me free from my fears and hesitations; grant me courage and humility; fill me with Spirit to face the challenge, and start the change I long to see.

Even if I am not the light, I can be the spark! In faith, service and communion,
let us start the change we want to see, the change that begins in me.

Live, Jesus, in our hearts forever!

Tears in the Rain

2011-02-01T12:20:00.001+08:00

I cried

salty

shapeless

ugly

tears in the rain

[Yes, I cried in vain, hoping against hope, to one day see you again]

The moment you find them,

[my salty, shapeless, ugly tears]

only then shall I stop missing you

[only then shall I stop loving you...]

Vida Antoniette M. Cuaresma (c) 2011

- Vida

A Shout Out

2010-10-05T08:26:00.002+08:00

"May today there be peace within. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content knowing that you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into our bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and everyone of you." — Santa Teresa de Jesús

I found that message in my in-box and it warmed my heart to know that somehow, somewhere, I was able to positively touch another person's life to the point that that person thought kindly of me, reached out, and sent me that beautiful message. And I appreciate how not all forwarded messages are "chain mail", and I must admit that some messages come at such an appropriate time that it sends chills down my spine.

This is just a shout out to all Wonder Women out there, and to the ones who help make you wonderful. In the busyness of each day, while you try to make sure that everything is in place, juggling event upon event, and keeping at bay the rainbow of emotions that is going through you, may you still find peace within - knowing that even at your lowest or loneliest point, God will never leave you. Be blessed.

Repost: My Life According to the Eraserheads

2010-09-24T09:05:00.003+08:00

Using only song names from ONE ARTIST, answer these questions. You can't use the band I used. Try not to repeat a song title. It's a lot harder than you think! Repost as "my life according to (band name)" Tag your music loving friends!

Favorite Local Band of all time:
Eraserheads!

Describe yourself:
Fruitcake (Fruitcake)

How do you feel:
Ligaya (Ultraelectromagneticpop)

Describe where you currently live:
Smallroom (Aloha Milkyway)

If you could go anywhere, where would you go:
Trip to Jerusalem (Fruitcake)

Your favourite form of transportation:
Waiting for the bus (Cutterpillow)

Your best friend is(are):
Pare Ko (Ultraelectromageneticpop)

Your fear:
Sumtingevil (album unknown)

What is the best advice you have to give (pwede bang receive? hehe):
Palamig (Carbon Stereoxide) or Easy Ka Lang (Ultraelectromagneticpop)

Thought for the day:
Huwag mo ng Itanong (Cutterpillow)

How I would like to die:
With a Smile (Circus)

My soul's present condition:
Alapaap (Circus)

My motto:
Wala (Carbon Stereoxide)

First posted on Facebook.

2010-09-15T09:14:00.002+08:00

Thoroughly enjoying my cup of Starbucks VIA™ Ready Brew Columbia blend! My take on it? Starbucks VIA™ Ready Brew is an awesome addition to Starbucks' already wonderful offerings!

Note, it doesn't taste like any over the counter instant coffee. In each cup of Starbucks VIA™ Ready Brew, you get to enjoy the fresh aroma and the rich and exquisite taste of Starbucks brewed coffee at a price that is more affordable (than most cafe bevs) and at a time and place of your choice. Whether you're chillaxing at home or shaking off a busy day at the office, Starbucks VIA™ Ready Brew gives you great coffee any time and any where without the hassle of a coffee maker or press :)

Goodbye crowded cafes, hello Starbucks VIA™ Ready Brew!

Not on One Man's Shoulders

2010-09-09T09:07:00.002+08:00

It's been more than a hundred days since our eventful national elections. 100 days after and the country has already been placed in the global spotlight. 100 days after and people are beginning to grumble.

The grumbling does not surprise me. I was born in the 70's so I've had my fair share of presidents. And I've seen how they've muscled their way into power or how the public raised them on a pedestal declaring their chosen leader as the nation's savior.

Savior?! What?! As a people, why do we cling to the drama? Why does the Filipino look at himself as a damsel in distress always needing someone to sweep him off his feet and save him? Oh for crying out loud!

We as a people have had the same problem regarding our leaders and how we see ourselves - it's that we expect him or her to change our lives in an instant. Bad news, bros, that will never happen. Because our "salvation", "freedom", and the improvement of our lives cannot be depended on one person alone. With islands reaching 7,107 and a population of more than 90 Million, it is impossible for one man to bring our country together. Instead of placing the burden of kinship and deliverance on one man's shoulders, we should take it upon ourselves to reach out and yes, touch somebody's hand to make this country a better place - not only for foreigners, not only for the rich, but for the masses and for the children - our future.

So what do we do?

Let us not quibble unnecessarily. We have enough diseases that could kill the lot of us, so we don't need violence to shed any more blood. Let's talk. Let's share our feelings. Let's make an effort to build bridges instead of burning them.

Treat each other as if he were your brother/sister. Whatever religion you're in, these are the basic tenets - love and respect your God, neighbor, and the land you live on. As individuals, we will have differences, instead of hurting each other for being different, let us embrace this diversity.

Let us follow rules. Rules are there for a reason. Fill up necessary forms. Follow traffic regulations. Queue up (huwag sumingit!). Let us step away from the padrino/palakasan system.

Take care of our precious planet. We have only one. Let us not wait for foreigners to clean up our esteros. Let us not wait for the LGUs to start clean up drives. Let us pick up our own trash, and avoid littering altogether. Reuse, Reduce, Recycle!

These are things that we can begin with. All it takes is a simple step. And yes, there are things that our government can do for us, but we must also remember that we as a people have a role to play and the responsibility is ours by birth and by right. To quote the late president John F. Kennedy, "ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country."

Sharing JFK's speech: http://www.famousquotes.me.uk/speeches/John_F_Kennedy/5.htm

Responsibility

2010-09-07T12:47:00.002+08:00

The past few weeks have been traumatic for our country. But true to form, no one is taking responsibility.

There has been a lot of hate messages and mud slinging going around - towards the hostage taker, towards the media, towards the PNP, towards the SWAT, towards the administration, towards the DILG, towards the mayor, towards the vice-mayor, towards the usiseros... poop flying everywhere and everyone's saying the other person's poop stinks much worse then their own. Yes, true to form, a lot of people are yapping their butt-cheeks off, wagging their tongues, and pointing fingers.

So where does that leave us now? Be (one of) the most hated nations in the world? Be the laughing stock and butt of jokes for the next couple of decades? We're great at getting attention, and trying to divert attention. Must the KSP cling to the limelight?

The problem is, we seldom learn from our mistakes because we're too busy saving face, saving ourselves, and being "pasikat". Sigh. Let's not waste our time waiting for the "next big scoop" to get our attention. Let's not wait to jump on the next bandwagon.

Bangon Pilipinas!

Corruption in the Little Things

2010-05-04T13:50:00.004+08:00

While on the bus on the way home, the bus driver's attention was called (several times) by the traffic enforcers (TE) - I was seated by the window on the row immediately behind the driver's seat. We were along Taft Avenue nearing the corner of Buendia. At the corner, the bus driver was stopped (well, not really stopped seeing as we were inching along our way) by the senior traffic enforcer (STE) who didn't look happy. He asked for the driver's license - the driver would make "pakiusap" - this happened 2 or 3 times - until the STE yelled "Lisensya!". The conductor got off the bus and tried to bribe STE who kept turning his back and walking away. A ticket was issued. The license was confiscated.

The bus driver and conductor kept yapping on the bus as they inched away from the curb, commenting on how terrible the STE was for being "masunget", "mayabang" and "hindi mapakiusapan".

Hearing their discussion made my blood boil. They were mad at the guy for enforcing the rules! They were mad at him because he didn't want to be bought! The only thing bad I can say about the STE is that he had a short fuse. But in the heat of the afternoon sun, with drivers and conductors trying to buy their way out of a ticket, who wouldn't have a short fuse?

That's corruption right there - bus driver and conductor wanted the easy way out. They wanted to get their way without having to pay for the consequences. But what they didn't anticipate is that there are still some people who cannot be bought - whose integrity cannot be swayed.

Walang corrupt kung walang mang-co-corrupt.

The Good Shepherd

2010-04-28T09:44:00.002+08:00

The Gospel reading during the celebration of Good Shepherd Sunday came from the Gospel according to John 10:27-30, [Jesus said,] "My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father's hand. The Father and I are one."

It is my fervent hope that in the coming elections, we - as a people of God - will listen to His voice. That we - as a nation of our Lord - shall be guided by His Will and not our own. That our public officials and most especially those running for positions of power will espouse the virtues and values of a true and Good Shepherd.

Forward: Ruth's Story

2008-09-18T12:34:00.000+08:00

Ruth went to her mailbox and there was only one letter. She picked it up and looked at it before opening, found that there was no stamp, no postmark, and only her name and address. The letter read:

Dear Ruth,

I'm going to be in your neighborhood on Saturday afternoon. I'd like to drop by for a visit.

Love Always,

Jesus

Her hands were shaking as she placed the letter on the table, "Why would the Lord want to visit me? I'm nobody special. I don't have anything to offer."

With that thought, Ruth remembered her empty kitchen cabinets, she reached into her purse and counted out its contents. Five dollars and forty cents. "Well, I can get some bread and cold cuts, at least." She threw on her coat and hurried out the door.

A loaf of French bread, a half-pound of sliced turkey, and a carton of milk left Ruth with a grand total of twelve cents to last her until Monday. Nonetheless, she felt good as she headed home with her meager offerings tucked under her arm.

"Hey lady, can you help us, lady?" Ruth was so absorbed with her dinner plans that she barely noticed the two figures huddled in the alleyway outside the grocers. A man and a woman, both dressed in little more than rags.

"Look lady, I ain't got no job and my wife and I've been living out here on the streets, see, and well, it's getting cold and we're kinda hungry. If you could help us, we'd appreciate it."

Ruth looked at them; they were dirty, smelly and frankly, she was certain that they could get some kind of work if they really wanted to. "Sir, I'd really like to help, but I'm a poor woman myself, all I have are a few cold cuts and some bread, and I have an important guest for dinner tonight..."

The couple nodded their heads sadly, "Yeah, well, ok lady, I understand. Thanks anyway." The man said, as he placed his arm around his wife's shoulders.

But as Ruth watched them leave, she felt a familiar twinge in her heart, "Sir, wait!" she called out. The couple stopped and turned as she ran down the alley after them.

"Why don't you take this food, I'll figure out something to serve my guest." handing the man her grocery bag.

"Thanks lady! Thanks a lot!" The man exclaimed with a toothless grin.

"Yes, thank you." His wife added, and Ruth could now see that the woman was shivering.

"You know, I have another coat at home. Here, take this one." Ruth slipped out of her jacket and handed it to the woman. Then, smiling, she turned and walked back home, without her coat and with nothing to serve her guest.

Ruth was freezing by the time she reached her front door, and worried too. The Lord was coming to visit and she ad nothing to offer him. As she fumbled through her purse for her keys, she noticed another envelope sticking out of her mailbox. "That's odd," she said, "the mailman doesn't usually come twice in one day."

Dear Ruth,

It was so good to see you again. Thank you for the lovely meal. And thank you, too, for the beautiful coat.

Love Always,

Jesus

The air was still cold, but even without her coat, Ruth no longer noticed.

Insane Thoughts

2006-07-10T09:52:00.000+08:00

Merriam-Webster's (online) dictionary defines insanity as

something utterly foolish or unreasonable

. A friend of mine and I had a nice chata regarding crazy people, and our discussion ended with both of us somehow thinking that there are no absolutely sane persons in the world. True, there are those who are without a doubt in need of therapy or medication, but then there are those who just have their own bouts with insanity. Can any person really claim soundness of mind or a healthy mindset at all times? Hmmm.

II CORINTHIANS 5:7

2006-07-07T08:31:00.000+08:00

FOR WE WALK BY FAITH, NOT BY SIGHT

Lord, though I may not see You, You are indeed present.
For it is up to me to acknowledge Your presence.

Lord, though I may not see You, You are indeed with me.
There are times Lord that I feel so alone, without my family around, I feel lonely even though I am surrounded by so many people. However, it is up to me to recognize and see You in the people around me.

Lord, though I may not see You, You are holding me in the palm of Your hand.
Lord, I dont understand the things that are happening in my life. I dont understand the reason for the pain that I feel. But it is not up to me to understand, rather, it is up to me to accept Your will. And it is up to me to have faith in Your greatness, for you are a Just and Merciful God, and You shall not allow harm to come to your faithful servants.

Vows

2006-05-04T08:30:00.000+08:00

Sometimes, you just get fed up with it all. Sigh. When will "I love you" be enough?

Faith answers this question!

Believing that the vows I took where not made in vain and having God as the center of our married life is vital. It's what keeps the marriage up, no matter how hard the winds of trouble blow.

I love my family, my child, and my husband. The vows I took where not just words uttered in the heat of the moment. Nosireebob. I had prayed to God and asked him if my decisions were right. Besides, not everything that's right and good easy to attain. And marriage is like that. It's lived on earth - and as humans are, we make a muck of things by being inconsistent at times.

But it is in God that I trust. It is to Him that we made our vows. And it is through Him, that we shall prevail.

Happy thoughts... Happy thoughts...

2006-04-22T16:24:00.000+08:00

Ok, breathe...

After that unfortunate incident (re: fire). I couldn't sleep. I could barely eat (well, ok, that's a good thing, considering how FAT I've become). And I couldn't enjoy my leave.

Or so I thought.

Thursday afternoon, my daughter Meg did the cutest thing. She turned on her side and was lying on her stomach! This was the first time she did it! I was so excited I took a picture! (can't post it just yet, my cable's crappy).

Oooh, and the best part was when Marlon got home, I was telling him about it and she did it again (the little show off!)

Even though Marlon and I are facing so many problems right now, I'm still thankful that God has blessed us with a wonderful daughter. Meg is my inspiration. And even if I have to work 2 jobs, I will, just to be able to provide for my darling angel.

Oh for crying out loud!

2006-04-22T16:16:00.000+08:00

Last Thursday, I filed for an emergency leave to take care of Meg. We were sleeping soundly (enough) when we were suddenly woken up by noise outside the house. There was a fire! Marlon got up and checked it out, I only peeked because I couldnt leave Meg alone. But by the sound of it, it was huge!

True enough, Marlon gave me the details - the entire market place was burning! The fire was blazing and it was eating up the market! Sheesh! That was unbelievable!

Why unbelievable? Because a few doors down from the market was the Fire Station. Why was the market place burning then?

Because the frigging fire station didnt have any water, that's why! Pathetic!!!

Responding fire stations came from QC, Parañaque, Pasay, and the like. Our fire station, fire trucks, and fire men couldnt do a damn thing.

The word in the street is that the fire wasnt an accident. Oh heck, even if it were, the place would have still burned down because our fire station doesnt have any water.

Think its unbelievable. Say it's stupid. Be outraged.

Shoots. That's exactly how I feel.

Wedding Bells

2006-04-17T17:08:00.000+08:00

Our wedding last December 28, 2004. It was held at St. Joseph's Church (a.k.a Bamboo Organ) in Las Piñas City.

God isn't done with me yet.

2006-04-17T10:43:00.000+08:00

The napkin is folded. God isn't done with me yet.

In yesterday's Gospel, our priest said that when Christ's apostle visited his tomb, the cloth or napkin covering Christ's face was found neatly folded.

Our priest said that it is Jewish tradition for a master to crumple his napkin after finishing his meal. (Supposedly as a sign for the servants to know that he has finished eating).

In relation to the Gospel, Christ's napkin being neatly folded meant that He isn't finished with us yet.

How many times do we think that our God has abandoned us? How many times do we think that we are alone in this world? How many times have our pain, suffering, and burdens broken our backs and our wills?

God isn't done with me yet. He is risen and alive. He has not forgotten me, for why would He, after saving me from my sin and destruction?

Today is Easter Monday. Thank you Lord for saving and giving life to your humble servant.

Passion

2006-04-12T08:16:00.000+08:00

Someone asked Jesus, "How much do you love me?"
Jesus replied,"I love you this much." and he stretched his arms to the cross and died for us.

During this Holy Week (and thereafter), let us remember that Christ's passion and suffering on the cross is not simply a symbol of our faith, but an act of love to save us from our selves.

This Time

2006-04-11T13:00:00.000+08:00

During this time, my family stays at home, going out only to attend to some chores and the mass. For others, it's a time to go to the malls, resorts, or other summer hot spots, for us, it's a time for quiet reflection and maybe rest. Some people become hyper during this time, cramming activities and trips while they can, for us, time seems to suspend itself, crawling at a snail's pace. We all spend our Holy Week differently, although it is hoped that it is not spent selfishly.

Birthpains

2006-04-10T13:24:00.000+08:00

There's a little bit of sadness attached to the joy of having a child - sadness borne of the fear of making the same mistakes many parents make, sadness because you're leaving another life behind. But the joy is much greater and grander. Nothing can compare! The pain coursing through me as I tried to recover from the c-section seemed to vanish as I looked at my daughter, looked in awe at her tiny hands and feet, smiled tearfully at her face and sleeping form. Meg is my life now. And a more vibrant future it seems to be.

New Life, New Beginnings

2006-04-10T08:39:00.000+08:00

I decided to set up a blogger account (again?). I have an account in LJ and blogspot (I think), but somehow I feel disconnected from them - I guess reading the previous posts make me think that the person who wrote that was another, different, person. I needed change, needed new life.

Blogger solved that, in part.

This time around I hope to write about being a woman. I thought, when I was much younger, more naive, that I was a woman then. But I realized wrong, I was just a girl playing grown up games.

In this new life I have, a woman in the true sense of the word, as a mother, wife, and sister to many other wonderful women out there, I plan to get rid of the baggage and the useless games.

So, good morning world, welcome to the new me!