If Tomorrow Never Comes :(

This is really sad, but most of us are like him. Some were not even given the chance to say all those things their loved ones need to hear before they leave this place. I just wish I have the courage to be that outspoken of my feelings to my family. Yes, I'm frank and open to my friends and other people; but not to those people who I really care about the most. I don't know why, but words just fail me along with my actions.

Back On Track

Motivation is what gets you started, habit is what keeps you going.

Indeed, and as of the moment, I feel that surge of motivation. I should start working really hard for all or most of the things that I intend to accomplish. There's so much that I want to do that it's giving me the chills.

And while some people decide to change because they are bitter, jealous or angry at something or someone, I will become a better person because that's what I want and that's what's gonna make me happy. It's for the better. It is never too late to start something new or continue what you had taken for granted.

Sweet Escape

Right now, all I want to do is relax and do some 'soul-searching' in one of these serene places...

From The Odd Life of Timothy Green

From Disney's The Secrets of the Magic Gourd

I also like the location of the film--The Lucky One. And because Summer is near...

Faith in Humanity = Restored

I have this sort of on and off relationship with the so-called faith in humanity. I've always thought that the world has already ended... ever since many people in the world have gone overboard with their nasty deeds... I didn't want to lose faith in humanity--not while I'm still alive and I know a lot of great, kindhearted people.

Maybe I started feeling pathetic when I experienced something heartbreaking, which I now realized is not worth the pain and the worries. Now that I've decided to move on and give people a chance, I'm beginning to appreciate every small act of kindness and love and respect. My faith in humanity has been somewhat restored, especially with the help of the following videos and images:

It doesn't matter what others do to you. It's how you respond to them that counts.



A simple act of kindness and every little thing we do to help... they have this domino or ripple-like effect...



God communicates... if only we just listen...



Being kind and helpful is not something to be ashamed of.  Do it even if others don't. Be the example.

 But humanity still got a long way to go. My heart bleeds for this. Also because I don't know if I am strong enough to be the change that I want to see in the world. Hopefully, small things really count...

When Gluttony Attacks

At last! I have finally decided to post something gastronomic...

And of course, I am first going to mention the awesomeness of my favorite couple: May and Rey Prader.

They just have this habit and talent of making people ecstatic through their delectable meals.

Here are some of those mouth-watering dishes that I am so craving for as of now:

 Chopsuey

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buko Heaven (but my all-time fave is May's Macaroni Salad)

ham & cheese pops

     

Pandan Chicken

     

YangChow Rice & Shanghai Rolls

     

I better visit them one of these days :D

Be Thankful It Happened

"When someone treats you like you’re just one of many options, help them narrow their choice by removing yourself from the equation.  Sometimes you have to try not to care, no matter how much you do.  Because sometimes you can mean almost nothing to someone who means so much to you.  It’s not pride – it’s self-respect."

Sad but true, right? Reality bites and truth hurts. But you always have the choice to either let go and move on or keep holding on and suffer from neglect. You can't avoid meeting people who would eventually leave or hurt you. What you can always take control of is how you respond to the circumstances.

I really hope I can walk the talk, especially now that I'm feeling so down. Even so, other people have it worse. I should be grateful for whatever I have and whatever I am or will become. *cheers*

Sometimes...

But, this too shall pass... :D

Be Better, Not Bitter :)

Indeed, you're the only one who's going to suffer if you keep on sulking over trivial matters. So instead of allowing bitterness and loneliness take over your life, why don't you embrace the fact that nothing's ever going to change unless you do something to become a better person? This has been my preach to myself...

Now that it's a new year, we are all given a new chance to either start a new life or improve what we already have. I am quite certain that there are lots in store for each of us this new year. All we have to do is harness that latent drive to do better.

I have been feeling so down before 2012 ended. But this new year, I have firmly decided to make a difference. I know I can't do this on my own. I need God's grace, mercy and love. Nevertheless, I'm sure He will always provide.

Several painful events have made my heart more protective and cynical. Sure enough, I haven't moved on yet from some of those things which I never saw coming. But maybe I've become weaker or more comfortable with the fact that I have a lot of people who are so good to me. I have forgotten that people change, and that they will come and go. Even so, I will not lose faith in my being a people-person. Just lessen ties, maybe.

Now there are so many reasons for me to smile and be happy... so why would I continue to entertain negative vibes? This new year, I will surely be better. I hope the same goes for you all, especially for those who feel taken for granted. Be the change that you want to see in humanity.

The Start of Something New? :)

Hear ye, hear ye!!! Grab the opportunity to start a clean slate while it lasts...

2012 has been quite a wonderful year for me and my family. Though we've been through a lot of ups and downs, (well, I think it's quite natural... so, not bad...) I could say that we all managed to survive another spectacular year. I'm really praying that 2012 will be better--more productive and fulfilling.

And since I'm trying to catch my breath and race with my heartbeat due to excitement while writing this post so, at least, I could do some sort of a year-end special, I'll try to make it short by sharing these photos of places I've been to this year; places which remind me how magnificent life is, especially when you always make an effort to travel, explore and learn new things with remarkable people in your life...

Happy New Year, everyone. May we all have a more blessed one. *cheers*

Happy Birthday, Jesus! Hello, Santa Claus! :D

“Never underestimate your power to change yourself; never overestimate your power to change others.”

  

May you all have a fulfilling Christmas, and a more blessed New Year :)

The Dangers Of Neglect

Nobody wants to be taken for granted. When you feel neglected, several other negative feelings tend to manifest. To be taken for granted by someone you love is just like as not being loved at all. Many people, especially children, who feel neglected have the tendency to either hurt themselves or others. A lot of dangers await those who feel disregarded, and to those who keep on ignoring the importance of anything or anyone.

These are my realizations upon watching these two films. I just stumbled them on youtube when boredom struck me and I wanted to watch something that has some decent, positive comments/feedback.

The Orphanage

I'm not really fond of horror movies; especially those psychological types (the ones that let your thoughts do the torture) because I'm actually good at scaring myself. This movie is one of those that you won't be able to forget easily.

The kid is so adorable, and there are some fascinating scenes that would make you forget it's a horror movie or something. Although you would have to rely on the subtitles because this is a Spanish movie (produced by Guillermo del Toro), you will surely have fun watching this if you're looking for a horror movie that does not rely on the frequent appearances of ghosts and jumpy moments or the distortion of the characters' faces but rather on the originality of the story and the way it tickles the brain.

The relevance of neglect? Watch and find out for yourself...



Doll Master

Now this has just made me all the more uninterested in dolls, particularly those bigger or life-size ones. It actually gave me a terrifyingly creepy feeling. The house full of dolls in this movie is not your ordinary doll house. I bet that even those who love Barbie would think twice in staying on that house. Everything's just disturbing! This is a Korean horror movie so expect some signature hair-related scary scenes.



The point is, even those lifeless things need some attention, particularly if you use them regularly or if you have been so fond of them--just like the dolls or the toys we cherished when we were just kids.

Neglect will eventually lead to regret, especially if it's already too late to make up for the times lost.

Love Is In The Air? ^_^

Well, time flies really fast... and now it's already February!?!

I really want to update this blog as often as possible. But lately, I've been very busy; and sometimes, I can't find the right words to come up with a decent post. I've even neglected my other blog which I promised to myself I really should manage well. I guess I've become really irresponsible these days. lol

And though I have found the time and the inclination to make a post today, I'd just keep it simple. Since it's the love or the heart's month, I decided to share two of the romantic/love-related videos that melted my heart today:

Disney Love Affairs

What Love Is

See The World ^_^

Ever since I started working at home, I felt that I have been missing a lot; particularly when it comes to those places I usually see on my way back home or on my way to the office. I miss the busy streets, the busy people roaming the malls, the jeepneys and all sorts of random sights that an everyday life in a small city could offer. Although I wasn't that active in exploring the city before, I could feel some drive within me that's wanting to explore different places within the City. I know there are still lots of corners and streets that I haven't visited even once although our City is a bit small and easy to navigate. And even though a part of me is telling me that what I wanted to do could be a bit risky, well, I'd rather explore than die from a monotonous living. After all, I'm a sucker for adventure.

My love for traveling, I figured, should not be given any limits. I should go out and see the world! Of course, I ought to start from where I live. The city may be small, but I know there are lots in store; waiting to be discovered. What I had been planning to do, is go out every single day... do some short to long walks... starting from our vicinity to as far as I could go. Of course, I'd take a camera with me to take shots of random people, sights or anything that could capture my interest. It doesn't have to be grand or something very spectacular. Otherwise, I'd feel pressure to find something remarkable. I'll just have to enjoy my walks, and the scenes that would unfold before me. Still, I'm hoping that many fun and memorable things would come my way.

Hey, isn't that another way to exercise? lol Yeah, that could be another advantage to this endeavor. Hopefully, I won't get lazy. But I only feel lazy when it's raining or the weather isn't that assuring. I'm still thinking about the time for when I should go out; either during my lunch break or after my working hours. well, maybe depends on the mood; what matters is that I shouldn't miss a day without making any discovery. This was also triggered by some great photos I've seen a few days ago. I was inspired by those people who were able to capture real-life, random events. But hey, they looked extraordinary when presented well. I wish I have a high-quality camera. Though I don't really want to go around holding those inconvenient-looking DSLRs; they may be able to capture really good images. But I don't want to attract so much attention.

Well, that's all for now. I have lots of plans and goals for this year. Hopefully, I can get them done; even just half of it. Hopefully, this would serve as a good start for me :D

Open Happiness ^_^

Many people think that happiness is out of reach--something that we can't achieve all on our own. But for me, happiness is a state of mind. What you entertain inside your head will try to manifest in your words and actions. So if you think you're no good or you're being desperate, chances are, you really are or will be. So the same goes with the achievement of any sort of happiness. It's impossible for anyone not to feel any kind of happiness, especially that you can always be happy even with the simplest and smallest of things.

I realized that you don't have to be rich just to be able to help the poor, the sick or those who are in trouble. You can always help other people, make them smile and make them feel loved through many simple but sincere ways. And one of these days, I'll try to make lots of strangers smile. :) After all, Christmas is in the air.

As I was browsing facebook and youtube, I found several videos about Coca-cola; their advertisements and other forms of promotion that really captured my heart. Here's one that's very relevant for this season, and one that many people can relate to:

Opening Happiness for Lonely, Yearning Hearts

The forbidden food of the gods x_x

I hate chocolates--well, I wish I really do. But chocolates are amongst my weaknesses. I know I can live without it; but it's just too difficult for me not to have a bite of my favorite "comfort food". It has become a necessity, especially during my red tide. hahaha

I just love anything chocolatey. Who could blame me? Our entire family are chocolate-lovers; we all have a sweet tooth. But of course, I know that eating too much is no longer acceptable. And although I've been trying so hard to resist its temptations, I just can't say no to it when it's so available in the fridge.

Eating chocolates, or dark chocolates, has its own pros and cons. Many studies have proven its positive effects to our bodies. Moderate intake of dark chocolates or those that contain cocoa, and not sugar, offers a lot of benefits to the heart. As they say, dark chocolates have anti-oxidants and other properties that could help enhance the performance of our cardiovascular system. I even found a kind of diet that relies on the moderate intake of "real" chocolates. But it seems that such diet is not that effective.

Well, the reason why I'm writing about chocolates is that because we (my siblings and I) have been digging for sweets these days. But I'm really, really doing my best to ignore chocolates; especially now that I'm back to my jogging routines. :) Besides, I no longer want to experience that excruciating pain I get whenever my teeth hurts. And I'm really hoping that I will no longer lose a tooth this year and the next years to come.

The Pros & Cons of Working At Home

At last! Another week has ended. And it's been two weeks or so since I started to work at home. It's both fun and pressure. Yes, pressure because I still hasn't learned to "fully" discipline myself. I could still find myself catching up with time. But nevertheless, all is well. It's kind of better compared to the kind of stress that working in a "care-less" company could give. I feel more in-control of myself. It's not like I don't fancy working with a group. In fact, I'm a teamplayer. It's just that, things got out of hand with my previous employer. Even so, I will always cherish the moments I spent on that company. There's no point bearing grudges on anybody. 

I have a lot of plans, even before I started. I thought of implementing a consistent exercise routine because that was one of the many important things that I thought I had no time to deal with. But of course, the truth is that I was only pretty lazy to do so. Now that I have more time and freedom to do so, I thought it should be one of my priorities. Right now, it's kind of difficult to immediately put my plans into action. But I know that I will eventually be able to achieve my goals and long-term plans. *hopefully :)

Working at home has a lot of pros and cons. If you're rather disciplined and determined to stick to your schedule, then you can certainly do a lot of more productive things. But if you're the type who always thinks that he could beat the challenge of time and the mood swings of fate, then you're likely find yourself stressed out for being lax and irresponsible. And I don't want to become one of those who didn't "make it big" in the field of home-based working. So I better straighten myself out and be up to becoming a better person. nyay!

pros:

- I can wake up late, provided the boss is okay with extending work schedule

- I can do push-ups, squats and other hilarious exercise/stretching routines when I'm bored or sleepy during working hours

- I can watch tv or listen to loud music of my choice

- I can take a nap? (but of course! as long as there's no deadline or the boss is out. lol)

- I can roam around the house and do whatever I want to (doesn't make sense at all. haha)

- I can do some household chores?

- many other things, I'm the boss and the keeper of my own time

- less travel expenses and other expenditures

- I don't have to comb my hair or dress decently (hahaha)

- I don't need to interact with immature and stupid people

- I get to challenge myself to become more disciplined, passionate and responsible

cons:

- I'm doomed if I'm lazy

- I don't get to ride public transpo more often

- I only have little exercise if I don't make it a point that I do strict, regular exercise routines

- I'll get fatter if I don't control myself

- Perhaps I'll suffer from separation anxiety since I'm a people-person?

- I don't get to witness other wonders of life or experience the real-world?

- I get easily distracted, more temptations I guess

- many other things I'm too-lazy and too tired to discuss any longer

Well, that's all for now. I have finally decided to blog once a week now that I have 'enough' time and freedom. See you again next week! nyahahaha

On Fighting Indecision

I used to be indecisive; now I'm not sure.

Indecisiveness is one of my weaknesses that I really hope to overcome. I always have a difficulty making up my mind, particularly when it comes to making choices or when choosing from a number of options. Maybe it's because I tend to be impulsive at times. And in order for me to minimize the impulsiveness, I see to it that I don't immediately make decisions, especially when it comes to money matters and other serious issues. But most of the time, I see myself trapped between the given options that I worry about the consequences.

There is no more miserable human being than one in whom nothing is habitual but indecision

I have learned to overcome an indecision issue that troubled me these past few days. And it feels so great to know that you have conquered something that's not actually a big deal as long as you clear your mind and focus on dealing with the dilemma. It's really wise to take things slowly, one step at a time. There's no point worrying about everything when you could not even do something about a few, small problems.

I realized that indecision often takes place if you don't actually know what you want -- if you don't know what you want to happen, what you want to achieve, where you want to go, or who you want to be with. If you don't know where to start or how to get things started, then chances are, you are not going to get anywhere and be able to do whatever that needs to be done. It's also a matter of priorities. 

You need to define your goals and objectives. You have to assess your capacity; figure out your limits, but be open to all the possibilities so that you can get over your boundaries. You need to determine and set your priorities. From there, you can effectively decide what you need to accomplish first. You can then make a more appropriate and rewarding decision.

It is human nature to stand in the middle of a thing.

You Are An Exception ^_^

Well, I guess I really cant help but post this one up. Paramore's The Only Exception had been playing over and over again inside my head. I guess I can relate to it n some ways; so, let me share to you this realistic and bitter but kind of hopeful song:

Paramore - The Only Exception  

When I was younger
I saw my daddy cry
And curse at the wind
He broke his own heart
And I watched
As he tried to reassemble it

And my momma swore that
She would never let herself forget
And that was the day that I promised
I'd never sing of love
If it does not exist

But darling,
You, are, the only exception

Maybe I know, somewhere
Deep in my soul
That love never lasts
And we've got to find other ways
To make it alone
Keep a straight face

And I've always lived like this
Keeping a comfortable, distance
And up until now
I had sworn to myself that I'm
Content with loneliness

Because none of it was ever worth the risk

Well, You, are, the only exception

I've got a tight grip on reality
But I can't
Let go of what's in front of me here
I know you're leaving
In the morning, when you wake up
Leave me with some kind of proof it's not a dream

Ohh---

And I'm on my way to believing
Oh, And I'm on my way to believing...

RIP, Nami :(

This is such a bad day - a really bad one. I feel so guilty.. and grief is trying to take the best of me... cant help but let the tears flow. If only my tears could wash away the sadness, and the feeling of guilt... I still cant get over it. It'll take some time, I know. But the pain right now is killing me. It hurts like hell. I can barely contain it. :(

My another favorite cat has died. Yes, this may sound ridiculous to other people; however, our cats (three of them: the mom, the older brother and the only girl - Nami) are already part of our family, I consider them my special siblings. I do my best to protect and feed them. Hearing them cry would bring me discomfort and worry; thus, it crushes my heart to see her struggle and die.

Yep, I saw how she died - she died in my hands as I tried my best to save her. But I guess I'm never enough to save her. Or maybe, it was also my fault that she didnt make it. Perhaps, I did the wrong first aid. So instead of saving her, I rushed her death. I dont know; I feel so helpless. I think it's better to blame myself. I was quite ignorant of what really needs to be done; and so I failed to save her. :(

They say dont dwell on things or failures which are actually beyond your control, including death. But I'm human; I tend to be sensitive or emotional, especially to my loved ones. I just cant accept the thought of a loved one passing away before my eyes. I cried and cried while trying to save my cat. Praying that I'll have the hands that can help her survive; but maybe I was really too late. It sucks not to be able to do anything at times like this.

I still dont know how to move on from this incident. Kind of traumatic and heart-breaking - I'd rather choose to deal with a love life issue than to bear with this kind of pain. :( The guilt is taking me over. The pain is unbearable. With all the memories, how can I free myself from this sadness and remorse? x_x

Nami, please forgive me if it was truly my fault. Please, rest in peace. :((

When I was a kid…

I had a lot of dreams. I aspired to be like this and/or that in the future. I wanted to achieve so many things. Impossible was not yet invented in my dictionary.  Felt I could conquer the world! Haha.

As a kid, my imagination was really wild, vivid and timeless. I cared for nothing but fun, adventure and the real excitement of life. I love to draw, write stories and play whatever games would come to my mind. I wonder where that kid is now…

I wanted to travel the entire world - explore, unearth and tell humanity how wonderful the universe is. I have always adored the creations of God. I love Nature, and even the innovations of man... Sadly though, the planet is no longer as beautiful as it was… 

When I was a kid… I wanted to become a…

Traveler/Archaeologist

What’s other better and pleasurable way to appreciate more the beauty of nature and the wonders of the entire universe than to travel, travel and travel? To travel the whole world is my very wish…when I was just a kid, and until now. 

I also want to unearth history, discover hidden facts and find relics. I was so inspired by a TV series way back in High School; if my memory serves me right, the show was “Relic Hunter.” I also love to watch Tomb Raider, The Mummy, National Treasure, Indiana Jones and other history-based or treasure hunting inspired movies. I loved history as long as I can remember and so I want to learn more.

I eventually wanted to become a teacher - for reality's sake. Haha. As for traveling, I think it’s wise to start a travel blog while I’m still looking for “that” opportunity.

Air Force/Navy/Marines

"To fly, fight and win ... in air, space and cyberspace." – Air Force

I’ve always wanted to explore the sky, and/or the ocean; thus the dreams. I even wanted to become an astronaut! I thought that I’ll always be free and alive whenever I can roam around the seas and the skies – reason why I love “One Piece.”

But of course, these are very risky jobs. As a kid, I was only looking at the positive and enjoyable aspects; I challenge intricacy and would always think that I shall win.

Now, as a Navy officer, you can also take part in aviation. I found out about Naval Aviators and blood surged through my veins. Isn’t that hitting two birds in one stone? Whew! :D

However, if it’s not in the US or other more technologically-advanced countries, I’d rather content myself with collecting miniature models of aircraft. Haha ;) :P

Ninja/Samurai

Aren’t they cool?!! Ninjas and Samurais never fail to amuse and amaze me. They’ll always be a part of my imagination and wishful thinking. Although becoming a ninja or a samurai these days seems easier said than done... if given the chance, why not? hahaha

Some people think that a ninja and/or samurai are nothing but blood-thirsty mercenaries or spies. But for me, they have an honourable reputation. Added with the effect of watching Samurai X – Rurouni Kenshin, Naruto and the like… ;)

But I guess, a police officer or a detective is more realistic and feasible. 

I also want to become an F1 pro-racer.. hahaha.. But I guess I should start learning how to drive well first.. and race with a go-kart before anything else. ;)

Although these aspirations may seem very difficult, I know they’re never impossible. I so envy those who are able to live up their dreams. Right now, I’m still having a hard time listening to my real calling. I know it’s not yet too late for me now... So, help me God. :D