• Life Lately

    {Life Lately} When in Alaminos, Pangasinan

    June 12, 2017

    We recently took a quick break from the city to enjoy some fresh air and salty water in Hundred Islands, Alaminos, Pangasinan. I had my fair share of sandy toes, sunburnt skin, and salty hair. Thank God for allowing me to take a break from work. I was beyond happy granting this unexpected travel. Thank you, Ma’am Irele, for tagging me along.

    Spontaneous trips were one of the best trips I ever had.

    I was hesitant with the idea of making a spontaneous trip. But looking through all of my trips, spontaneous trips were one of the best trips I ever had. You have to go on with the flow. I guess I am lucky to be surrounded by people with the same passion, Travel.

    Since this was an impromptu trip, I never had a chance to do lots of preparation. I am so much intrigued about the islands and islets that made me wonder if it is really 100.

    Time to strike through Hundred Islands in my Travel Bucket List. Also, I got a chance to confirm if it is ONE hundred islands. YES, it is 100++ islands and islets.

    The whole day was not enough to explore with so much more to see. Although our visit was short, it was worth every second.

    If you are looking for a trip that is not costly and would fit your budget perfectly, Hundred Island is the place to be.

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  • Random

    My Go-To Excuse To Get Out of Any Plan

    June 10, 2017
    If you want to do something, you will find a way. If you don’t, you will find an excuse. – Jim Rohn

    I was invited by my office mates to join them on their trip to Hundred Islands, Alaminos, Pangasinan. I said, “Yes” without even having second thoughts. I am known for being the “kaladkarin” in our group. I would love to join every “lakad” my friends and office mates have. I would never turn down any invitation. It bothers me to turn someone down. However, I cannot always say “yes” every time my friends want to make plans. I can get away with honesty with a few close friends. But I am obliged to come up with a better excuse for anyone else, for they will never understand me.

    No. It is not just a little word but it holds so much power.

    It has always been wrong to decline with an excuse. Knowing how to refuse helps avoid hurt feelings. But it is perfectly fine to say,

    • You have other plans for that particular time. No further explanation is required. Otherwise, it will sound like you are trying to come up with excuses.
    • You feel tired and exhausted. You are taking time off and badly need quiet time.
    • You cannot afford it. This is the main reason why I cannot join mostly and why I love staying more at home. But it is just not in the budget right now.
    • Or tell them the truth. If they are true friends, they will understand whatever your reason is. You do not need to find another reason to cover up.

    You do not want to, that is more than sufficient reason in itself. There is no excuse for speaking out what you have in mind. To decline an invitation does not mean rejecting that person or group.

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  • Life Lately

    {Why} I Love the Beach Even If I Can’t Swim

    April 8, 2017

    Yes, I cannot swim. And I mean it. People do not believe me when I tell them I cannot swim. Maybe because I love going to the beach and I look as though I can swim but I really cannot. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for not providing me swimming lessons when I was a kid.

    There are more than hundreds of reasons why I always head to the beach even if I do not know how to swim. Life is better at the beach. However, it is more than just the sun, sand, and sea.

    Great place to drink and to chill. Besides the beach, I love drinking – with sand between my toes, a stunning view in front of me, and the smell of the ocean – all add to the chilling factor of a beach destination.

    The sound of the waves. The waves have a calming effect on me. There is no sound better than the sound of the waves on the beach.

    Stunning view. I want to wake up seeing the beach and the palm trees. I bet I will never get bored of the view.

    Awesome food. I am a big foodie. Being close to the beach means I got to enjoy fresh seafood. I love seafood. I would never get tired eating the same.

    Something new to experience. It is a different world altogether when you are at the beach.

    Enjoy basking in the heat of the sun. I always have a tan after all my vacations. The sun also provides breathtaking sunsets at the beach.

    A great time to spend quality time with friends/family. A chance to be together without distractions. I have been with my sister twice. I should have taken her with me whenever I go to the beach.

    A great place to unplug from technology. It feels good to relax without a computer, phone, and tablet for a few days. No connection! Just you, your friends, and the beach.

    A chance to get away from stressful city life. I always crave for peace and tranquility. A trip to the beach is all I need to disconnect from everyday problems, stress, and a perfect setting to connect with nature.

    Why do I love the beach? Let me count the ways.

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  • Life Lately

    {Life Lately} When in Banaue-Sagada-Baguio

    February 12, 2017

    I rarely talk about what happened to me lately. Since, I am running out of ideas again for blog posts. Here I am starting this Life Lately series. I hope I will be able to keep up this series.

    Last week is filled with Banaue-Sagada-Baguio travels with my officemates/friends/travel buddies to celebrate Ma’am Kath’s birthday.

    I experienced a lot of firsts on this trip.

    I had my first travel disappointment. On this trip, I planned to take boyfriend. Bags were packed and travel package/fees had been paid. And boy, boyfriend became suddenly sick and can no longer come. Php 2,360 is such a waste of money. Bye bye Php 2,360!

    Spelunking Sumaguing Cave was not that fun either. I had put so much effort into slipping our way down on the rocks. I should have worn sturdier sandals instead of the one I was wearing. But, it was a pretty first and probably my last caving experience.

    Our trek to Bomok-Od Falls was one of a kind. I pushed myself up to my limit for the first time. The payoff was not so great, but the experience is awesome. There were lots of tourists trying to get their photos everywhere. We cannot get a nicer view of the falls with lots people around.

    Read: {Lessons Learned} Trekking Bomok-Od Falls

    We surprised Ma’am Kath with a little unprepared birthday celebration. It was quite an impromptu— another first. But it was successful.

    I have not seen much of Sagada on our visit. I still have lots of things to strike out in my {Random Things} To Do in Sagada. I hope I can visit Sagada again anytime soon.

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  • Life Lately

    {Lessons Learned} Trekking Bomok-Od Falls

    February 8, 2017

    Our trip to Bomok-Od Falls in Sagada made me realize that I am not really into trekking, hiking, mountaineering or any that involves long walks. That trip will be the first and last. I was not aware that it is a two-hour hike going to the falls and another two hours going back.

    Yes, I pushed myself to my limits, both physically and mentally. Going down to the falls is hard, heading back is even harder. I felt the tightness on my legs on every step. Though, I wanted to give up but I did not. My determination to reach the destination and complete the hike was little stronger.

    On this trek, I have learned a lot of lessons in life.

    You do not need a lot of material things in life.

    Just walking stick, and comfortable foot wear and you are good to go. I relied mostly on the walking stick on my way down. I would not imagine myself walking without it. Thank you, walking stick!

    All possessions are temporary. The most beautiful things in life are the people, places and experiences.

    Water is life.

    I never realized the need for this until I started trekking. Water is important. It brings extra energy to keep us going and maintain sanity.

    You cannot live alone; you need people to go on.

    I almost gave up on my way down. I cannot feel my feet anymore. What I feel is the tightness on my legs. But my friends cheered for me.

    As long as there is at least one person who cares, I will not give up the fight.

    Keep moving one step at a time.

    No matter how fast/slow you are going, as long as you progress, you will reach your destination.

    In the end, it will all be worth it.

    Is it worth it? Nah! The payoff was not so great but the experience is awesome. It is the experience we wanted in the first place. The week after was a week of pain relievers.

    Every life lived to the fullest is an adventure and also a lesson.

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  • Random

    {Random} Things To Do in Sagada

    January 28, 2017

    I have collected a few interesting and more unusual tips from travelers/bloggers/vloggers who have been in Sagada. Let us see if we can strike out as many as we can as we enjoy the cold weather, pine trees, and scenic views on our trip this coming February.

    Are 3 days long enough to see all the major sights? Let us see.

    1. Bike to Besao and witness the sunset
    2. Buy the best bread in Sagada at Masferre Inn
    3. Climb the walls of Echo Valley
    4. Conquer Mt. Ampacao and revel in the outstanding view once atop it
    5. Enjoy the Lemon Flavored Pie and Tea at Sagada Lemon Pie House
    6. Enjoy the privacy of your place at Villa D’ Familia
    7. Experience Heaven on Earth at Kiltepan View Point
    8. Explore Sumaging Cave or do the connection and traverse to Lumiang Cave
    9. Freeze in the icy-cold water of Bomod-ok Falls
    10. Get to know the locals and fellow travelers
    11. Go orange picking at Rock Inn
    12. Go shopping at either Sagada Weaving or Ganduyan Store.
    13. Gobble the fantastic yogurt at Yogurt House
    14. Hangout at the Basketball court near St. Mary’s Episcopal Church.
    15. Learn the stories behind the peculiar burial tradition
    16. Pay a visit to the Pottery workshop
    17. Pick up some Sagada coffee at 18 Days Coffee Roasters
    18. Play board or card games or relax beside the fireplace
    19. Raft the Chico River from Dantay to Bontoc
    20. Read a book while enjoying a cup of coffee
    21. Ride top load (the roof of) a jeepney
    22. See the Hanging Coffins up close
    23. Stay at Mapia-aw Pensione and enjoy the stunning view from your room or balcony
    24. Trek to the Bomod-ok Falls
    25. Try itag, a cured meat similar to a slab of bacon, unsliced
    26. Try the Saturday Night Buffet or Pork Tenderloin specialty in Log Cabin
    27. Visit the Cemetery and Calvary Hill
    28. Wake up early and bike to Marlboro Country to try to catch a glimpse of the wild horses
    29. Walk along the Rice Terraces of Sagada
    30. Walk around town, visit the market, especially on a Saturday, it’s market day
    31. Witness the product of the local’s creativity at Ganduyan Museum

    Updated (February 7, 2017) I think I need to go back to Sagada. I still have lots of items to strike out. 15 out of 31 is bad. It is not half past 31.

    Credits: Ma’am Kath for pictures

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  • Random

    {Goals} New Year, New Me 2017

    December 31, 2016

    As I reflect on the challenges and lessons of 2016, I’m ending the year by setting my goals for the coming months. Despite the difficulties I faced, I believe it’s never too late to dream and plan for a brighter future. Remember my {Goals} New Year, New Me 2016? While I may not have achieved everything I set out to do last year, I’m determined to get back on track and make progress in the year ahead.

    For 2017, I’m keeping my life goals shorter and more achievable. Here’s to a better year ahead:

    1. Adopt a cool hobby.
    2. End all my addictions.
    3. Finish the 52-week Money Saving Challenge with KNR and JCC.
    4. Get married and start a family—I know I’m not getting any younger.
    5. Prioritize getting more sleep for better overall health.
    6. Go on a real vacation to relax and rejuvenate.
    7. Achieve financial independence.
    8. Diversify income streams beyond a regular day job.
    9. Invest in permanent closet staples for a timeless wardrobe.
    10. Embrace simplicity in all aspects of life.
    11. Pay off all credit cards and become debt-free.
    12. Build a six-month emergency fund to cover expenses.
    13. Save towards purchasing a residential property.
    14. Aim to save Php 20,000 as part of my financial goals.
    15. Prioritize regular exercise and healthy habits, including cutting back on sweets, junk food, and ice cream.

    With these goals in mind, I’m ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities that 2017 has in store. Here’s to a year of growth, progress, and fulfillment!

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  • Random

    My Dream Escapade

    December 3, 2016

    My long-awaited Caramoan dream escapade has finally resurfaced, thanks to Ma’am Kathy’s brilliant suggestion to change our plans from Baguio-Sagada to this stunning beach destination. As someone who loves beaches and sand, I couldn’t be more thrilled. There’s something about the aquamarine waters rushing to my feet that fills me with peace and serenity.

    Read : Why I Love the Beach Even If I Can’t Swim

    My friends and office mates have planned a three-day trip to Caramoan, Camarines Sur, to celebrate Ma’am Kathy’s birthday. Finally, we’re all on the same page. I’m looking forward to spending our time exploring nature instead of the usual drinking and karaoke bars. Let’s make the most of our time together and paint Camarines Sur red!

    Caramoan Islands boast pristine beaches, powdery-white sands, aquamarine waters, and stunning limestone formations. It’s no wonder it’s become one of the top destinations in the country. This is why Caramoan has always been one of my dream destinations—it reminds me so much of the beauty of El Nido, Palawan.

    While my friends aren’t as familiar with DIY trips, we’ve opted to go with a travel tour agent for this adventure. Though DIY trips can be thrilling and unforgettable, especially when shared with close friends, sometimes it’s nice to have the convenience and guidance that a travel agency provides.

    So, which do you prefer—DIY trips or traveling with a tour agency? Let’s discuss!

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  • Work/Money Diaries

    {How} I Save Money

    June 4, 2016

    For over two years now, I’ve been struggling with something I never thought would be an issue for me. I used to be so careful with my finances, ensuring my savings remained intact and my credit card balance stayed at zero. But then, something changed.

    I became obsessed with shoes, planners, and all sorts of things. I found myself splurging on weekend and online sales, buying items I didn’t really need. Who needs four pairs of sneakers or three planners in a year, right? Before I knew it, my savings were depleted, and my credit card balance was in the red. I was spending more than I was earning, and it was taking a toll on my financial health.

    But it’s not too late to turn things around. I knew I needed to pay off my debts and start saving again. But how?

    I realized I needed to change my approach to saving. Instead of just saving whatever was left of my salary after expenses, I started setting aside a certain amount first and then budgeting what was left. It was a challenge at first, but I knew it was necessary for my financial well-being.

    So, I began using the 50/25/15/10 formula. I allocated 50% of my salary to loans, debts, and housing, 25% to food and transportation, 15% to savings and other savings schemes like “paluwagan,” and 10% to tithes. This approach allowed me to properly distribute my income to cover my essential expenses while also prioritizing savings and debt repayment.

    I even opened a separate savings account to prevent myself from being tempted to spend unnecessarily. With time and discipline, I know I’ll be able to pay off my debts and build up my savings for the future.

    So, how do you save? Let’s share our strategies and learn from each other!

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  • Random

    {How} I Personalize my Planner

    April 30, 2016

    Customizing and personalizing your planner is a wonderful way to make it truly yours, reflecting your personality and needs. Here’s how I add my personal touch to my planner:

    Planner Itself: After months of deliberation, I chose the Filofax Original Patent in Fuchsia. Its funky color matches my personality perfectly, and its durable construction ensures it’ll last for years to come.

    Dashboards: I love starting my planner journey with a visual treat. My dashboard features a transparent plastic sheet from Filofax, a postcard from HeyKessy, an inspirational phrase, soldier bookmarks, and a photo of us to bring a smile to my face every time I open it.

    Interior Pockets and Pen Slots: The left side of my planner is home to slots for cards and an elastic band for pens. I keep my Coleto Hi-Tec C pen in the loop and tuck weekly plan and timetable sticky notes for quick scheduling.

    Pen: My trusty companion is the Pilot Hi-Tec-C Coleto 5-barrel pen. It offers a rainbow of colors to choose from, keeping my planner vibrant and organized. I got mine from DavaoArts.

    Dividers and Tabs: I divide my planner into sections like Daily, To-Do, Expenses, Lists, Blog Ideas, Work, and Others. Labeled with my Dymo Label Maker and adorned with tabs from National Bookstore, they keep everything in its place.

    Printable Inserts: Craft and Create provides me with amazing inserts that perfectly complement my Filofax. The quality of the paper is top-notch, ensuring smooth writing and planning.

    Paper Clips or Page Markers: While I don’t go overboard, a few paper clips or page markers help me quickly locate important notes and pages within my planner, adding a touch of color and style.

    Sticky Notes and Stickers: I prefer functional over decorative, so I keep my use of sticky notes, stickers, and washi tape to a minimum. National Bookstore provides me with quality sticky notes, and my washi tape collection comes from HeyKessy, HobbyDepot, and DavaoArts.

    Charms and Journaling Cards: To infuse my planner with positivity, I include charms and journaling cards from BeeHappyCrafts. They serve as little reminders to stay uplifted and inspired throughout my planner journey.

    How do you customize/personalize your planner? Let me know!

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