First Love

They say that first love never dies.  I can also say that it holds true for me.

For several months I stayed away from my passions only to find myself reconnecting to it.

Just recently, I got involved in the production of a short film.  This project is another first for me, though I'm not quite new to this field.  I've been involved in several shoots before but all related to my work as a broadcast producer for promo plugs.  This short film is very close to my heart, not only because I headed the project and wrote the script, but it led to a wonderful discovery that this is one heck of a passion I never dared to give a chance before.  And now, I am glad that I did. I am delighted to know also that my co-director shares the same dream and passion, and it's really good that this project turned someone's vision into reality.

Also, this short film project got me missing college and the university organization that honed me. 

Lately, I've been searching for schools to enroll in again.  Around this time last year, I was applying for a dream course.  But fate won't allow me, and I know why He had to delay my plans.  So now, I've been looking around for some school that offer me a theater arts or a marketing communications masters degree to fit my schedule.

Early this week, I discovered a local theater group with an advocacy program directed to children's welfare.  That really piqued my interest and got me thinking of signing up.  And it made me realize I should enroll in my marketing course soon.  As I recall the personal statement I submitted, my intended research will focus on children's theater.

Last week, I got to play my violin again.  With the callouses in my fingers all gone now, it was hard at first.  On Youtube, the Vitamin String Quartet uploaded several new videos and they got me so inspired again.  Also, I got to download music sheets of Adele's Someone Like You and Bruno Mars's It Will Rain.

With more time in my hands now, I feel that I can focus on these passions that keep me in high spirits. I will continue to perfect my craft, while I wait for the next passion, love interest or activity to occupy my life.

Thank you 2011

"Grateful for 2011, excited for 2012".

There went my facebook status update last New Year's day.  The past year could have been really tough, in fact a turning point in my life, yet I am greatly thankful for every experience, lesson and friends I gained along the way.  Let me share with you the year that was that greatly affected who I am today.

The first quarter saw a liberating light as I decided to take on drastic changes relationship-wise, irrespective of the painful consequences.  That experience is pivotal in my life as it opened my eyes and hearts to a whole new world of opportunities in career, business, relationships and self development.

Before the first quarter ended, I was offered a job less stressful and more challenging than what I previously had.  It was actually an answered prayer and was a surprise.  That job offer was one of the least expected, since I had no plans of moving to a new post last year. But truly, God knows what is best and I am more than grateful for the career shift.

pictorial after my violin recital

I also had my second violin recital the last week of February.  It felt good because I know I sounded far better than the first time I had my recital, thanks to my ever patient teacher and well-wishers who were present during the event.

By mid-year, I got to participate for a showchoir competition during the Singles for Christ Metro Manila Conference.  And as a bonus, our team won the grand prize.  It really felt good to know that through the endeavor, I helped some people feel good and confident about themselves and at the same time, share the talent the Lord has given me for His greater glory.

baby Jerone at 2 months

Also coincident with the Gloree showchoir preparations, I had my first public violin performance in GMA--a dream come true.  My classmate requested me to play along with her the Mga Kwentong Pambata ni Jose Rizal theme during the General Assembly.  After the event, I felt so elated to receive a lot of positive acclaim from friends and managers in the office.

September1, a new baby in the family was born.  Jerone Andrew, my sisters second son, is the cuddly bundle of joy who now takes most of my weekends.

By September, I got accepted for graduate school but eventually did not enroll due to schedule conflicts. Hopefully, this 2012, I can have my workshift adjusted to accommodate plans to pursue my MBA.

October, my business partners and I launched Sublime, a clothing line for the young, chic and budget-conscious fashionista.  My friends from Singles for Christ and I had put up our company GALZ and started joining bazaars to kick off our clothing line.

To end the our bazaar season, we took a quick break and headed far north in Ilocos.  Here I experienced more of God's love through the breathtaking beauty that was presented in front of me.

at the Paoay church in Ilocos

in Vigan, Ilocos Sur

I got to celebrate the Christmas season with my family, and hosted our first reunion in years.  I know that wherever Mama is now, she is very happy with the way things turned out in our clan after her death.

As of my lovelife, I know 2012 will be a very good year to work on that.  With fervent prayers, I know will find the one I can share my passion with.  For now, I will just continue to enjoy life and relish every moment in love and service of the Lord.

2012: it ain't the end of the world

Since the 2012 movie and the end of the world scare, if that may be true, I've been thinking and planning on how to make my life better and more meaning if given only a few months to enjoy it.  Instead of being anxious that the world will end soon, either by some cosmic collision or whatever, I am actually excited to carry out my 2012 plans.

I know that you are thinking this piece is some sort of New Year's resolution and I say that is partly true.  There are some things from the past I want to leave behind together with good ole 2011.  These include resentment, bitterness, tardiness and procrastination.  Yes, I'm a bit of everything there.  So here goes my 2012 aspirations, goals and action plans.

Family:

I will be more caring and attentive to their needs.  I'd love to have a regular and more often bondings with my nephews since I got too busy with the clothing business this last quarter of 2011.

Career:

Since my broadcasting career is just ok and somehow stable, it may take a back seat this year as I plan to finally get enrolled in the business school by April.  But first, I need to talk to my manager to have my schedule adjusted a bit so I can take the weekday classes.

Business:

2012 is the year to reach greater heights for Sublime and Bits of Beads.  As my partners and I took our first step this year by joining bazaars, we plan to take our business a few notches higher by doing new ventures, perhaps a new line, and exploring the options we haven't done before.

Service:

Since I already said yes to various services for next year, I pray for the strength, wisdom, humility and patience to lovingly carry out the tasks of a servant leader.  I hope that I may draw my members to a closer relationship with the Lord and a deeper experience of God's love in their lives, and hone them to be future leaders of the community as well.

Another thing that I am really looking forward to this year is being a part of the Singles for Christ International Conference 2012 program  team.  I was deeply honored, and at the same time humbled that I was handpicked to be a part of the team. I see it as an opportunity to give back since the Lord has been so generous to me, giving me the talents and resources I currently enjoy. 

Lovelife:

Well, I know this shouldn't be planned since love just comes to you when you're ready for it.  I guess after a liberating heartbreak, I can say that I am ready to fall in love and feel the kilig again.  Thus, I will be more open to the options given me and the signs the world is sending me.  So, whoever is up to be on this life's journey with me, you're just in time.  You might be the Casanova I've been waiting for. But that doesn't mean I will settle to the first person who'll come into my life. It will still take a lot of prayers and discernment to know with whom I should be or rather, where I really should be.

Personal improvement:

This year, i wish to learn a new skill: driving.  I plan to take driving lessons by mid-year and God-willing, I hope to buy my first car before the year ends.

Also, I plan to return to the music school by June this year.  I miss playing my violin.  But before that, I need to do a lot of warm-ups and refreshers.  My callouses are all gone now.

So far, these are the only plans I have in mind.  I know I can carry out everything in this to-do list with the help of our dear Lord who has been there for me, allowing me to achieve my dreams one step at a time.

PS: By the way, I don't believe that it will be the end of the world next year (see NASA's answer here).  The scare is just reminiscent of the Y2K, but here we are, still alive and enjoying life.  Anyway, should it really be the end of the world, shouldn't we start loving and loving like it's the last year?

11.11.11 (unabridged)

To be honest, I waited for a long time for this day to come, perhaps hoping that something really good will happen.

Maybe I'd get to my dream destination, a grand vacation with the person I care most about.

Or how about walking the aisle to say vows with him?

Hah?!  Of course that didn't happen.  And that never will.

But then something good came out of 11.11.11.

Had a great bonding time with my friends in the church community I am in, and a very fruitful business meeting with my partners. Also had a very hearty breakfast chat with my family that morning, a rare occasion for me.

I realized, why do I keep looking for happiness elsewhere when it is actually right in front of me.  Why do I waste my time sulking in loneliness when in fact I am surrounded with loving and caring family and friends. The Lord has constantly blessed me with so many good things, some even undeserved, but I keep focusing on what I've lost that I fail to see the blessings I already have.

Knowing who esteems me high, I won't need to go searching for love somewhere else. I guess I should also give up my futile attempts to reconcile differences from the past that I know will never find their places.  

Someday, I will be complete and totally healed.  And hopefully soon, I can share myself again with someone as whole as I am.

Gotta Go!

Have a travel buddy, will go!

I just want to list down the places in the Philippines I'd like to see before I tie a knot (whenever that will be--what a vague timetable here!)

**in no particular order**

photo courtesy: http://www.siargao.com/

Siargao

They say it's a surfer's haven.  Well, I'm no surfer chick but I'd definitely give it a try once I reach the famed island. 

Caramoan, Camarines Sur

Several Survivor TV Show editions have been shot here, who wouldn't want to see the place in person.  When I reach the island, I'd definitely have a picture shot ala Survivor castaway.

photo courtesy: wikipedia

Camiguin

The White Island and the sunken cemetery is totally interesting to me.  I guess it would be better if I take a few diving lessons prior to the trip so I can see the cemetery up close.  I'd love to experience also the vast sandbar of the White Island.

 
Davao City

Who wouldn't want to experience a city with a beach nearby.  A trip to Davao City would be a bliss with its malls and white sand beaches. I'd love to stay at the Pearl Farm and stroll along the shores of Samal Island.

Palawan

There has been a campaign to raise awareness and put the Underground River in the new Seven Wonders of the World.  President PNoy himself checked this and I'd love to experience it as well.  Also, I don't like to miss the famous El Nido, the beach I've been dreaming of since I was 12.

Antique, Dumaguete, Guimaras

These up and coming tourist spots have gained a lot of positive reviews and features lately, with people now discovering the gems in these islands:  immaculate beaches, natural falls and springs.

Bantayan

Far off Cebu City is the pristine beach of Bantayan Island.  Before I head to this paradise, I'd better ready myself for butt cramps, having to endure 2 hours of bus travel and another 2 hours of ferry ride.  But friends who've been there said it's worth the love travel. So gotta bring a lot of patience with me in this trip.

Basilan

This farthest town in the country is truly blessed with beautiful beaches.  Too bad, civil war has driven tourists and foreigners away.  When I'm ready, I might give this island a shot.

Siquijor

Contrary to nasty rumors about this place, the island's actually serene. With it's beautiful stretch of white sand beach, comparable to that of Boracay's, I don't mind the old stories at all.

Cagayan de Oro

When I finally have the guts, I'd definitely try the adrenaline-pumping white water rafting adventure and bungee jumping.  But first, I need to get over my fear of heights.

my Cebu City trip collage

Cebu City

I went here two years ago and fell in love with the charming city right away.  It's like the antique beauty of Intramuros, the hustle and bustle of Manila and Quezon City, and the relaxing breeze of Antipolo City all in one place, plus a nearby beach. Too many sights to see in Cebu, not to mention the people are really warm and the food is really tasty.  The next time I go back, I'd like to try the sky walk, hoard loads of danggit (dried fish) and dried mangoes, and visit the Plantation Bay.

Turtle Islands,Tawi-tawi

I'm totally fascinated with turtles.  I'm fact, I'd love to have one for a pet. After seeing the GMA News and Public Affairs feature on Turtle Island, a virgin beach where mother green sea turtles lay their eggs, I really got intrigued and wanted to see it live in action.

Banawe Rice Terraces

Who wouldn't want to explore the Eighth Wonder of the World?  The structure really amazes me; the ingenuity of the Ifugaos who made it about 2000 years ago is totally superb.

Truly the country's blessed with so much natural resources.  As a Filipino, I'd like also to do my share in keeping the beauty of the country in my own little way.  Of course, I'd like grandchildren to experience these too.