Finally, a graduate

9 years ago, I was at the lowest point of my life emotionally, mentally, and financially. I had to home school my son for 2 years coz I didn't have enough funds to send him to school. It was that bad for me and my finances. 

The first 5 years in school, I constantly struggled making payments. Thankfully, the school was very understanding and gave me leeway. Sometimes, I could only pay Php500 a month and sometimes, I had to stretch the entire school year just to be able to make a full payment. It was only the last 3 years that I was able to make full payments and it was truly exhilarating.

Finally, I cannot believe that I am able to say that with hard work, sleepless nights, blood, sweat, and tears, my son has finally graduated from elementary. We survived!

I am so thankful that my son is such a great student. He self studies, asks for help when he needs it, and basically likes school. I hope this continues way into high school and college years. I really am very proud of him. 

Huge thanks goes to my family who was there to guide my son while I was out being a Dad so I couldn't be a Mom 100%.  They have been such awesome support and I know that my son wouldn't have been able to achieve things without them. 

Thankfully, my brothers flew in from Singapore just in time to join us for the celebratory dinner. We had dinner at Phoenix inside Bellevue Hotel because we were already checked in for my sister's 18th birthday which was happening the next day. 

Phoenix serves a really good mix of Chinese food at reasonable rates. Their abalone which in some places can cost 3k was less than 2k and it was authentic. 

I am and will always be grateful to these people for having my back and being there for my son at all times. I know that we wouldn't be at this stage if it weren't for them. Truly, they are the wind beneath my wings and my son's wings. 

Forbes 5 Star Staycation at Marco Polo Ortigas

I've stayed at the Ritz Carlton in Hong Kong which is a Forbes 5 Star Hotel. I've also stayed in Berjaya in Malaysia which I believe is a 6 star hotel. I've also stayed in Peninsula Excelsior in Singapore. My point is, I've stayed in hotels that ranged from 4 stars to 6 stars but I have never stayed in a Forbes 5 Star Hotel here in the Philippines ... that is until I stayed at Marco Polo Ortigas for the 2nd time on their 2nd year as a Forbes 5 Star Hotel.

Two weekends ago, my family and I stayed at Marco Polo Hotel in Ortigas. This was my 2nd time but it was a first for my family so I was really excited for them to experience staying in a Forbes 5 Star hotel. After all, there are only 4 in the Philippines and this was the one nearest to where we live.

This was our room. Four of us stayed and they were kind enough to plaec an extra bed. What I was impressed most about this was the fact that the placcement of the extra bed did not cramp up the room because the attendant was really good in where he placed it. He seems to be a master of Tetris because he placed it perfectly in a nook.

The bathroom was also very spacious and had a shower and bathtub which my sister and son thoroughly enjoyed.

After we have settled in, the adults went up to the VU SKY LOUNGE where we enjoyed aperitifs and wine. M loved the cheese and the fact that there was unlimited beer. My sister and Mom enjoyed catching up and the view.

After enjoying the view of the sunset at VU Sky Bar, we headed down to have dinner at CUCINA.

Our family enjoyed dinner a lot. There was a huge variety of choices from seafood to Japanese, Indian, Filipino, Chinese, and desserts that is sure to add a few inches to your waist but it will be oh so worth it.

The next day, we had lunch at Lung Hin. Lung Hin is the Chinese restaurant found inside Marco Polo Ortigas. They serve some of the best Chinese dishes that side of the city. It can be a little pricey but starting March 8, they have actually come up with a lunch menu that makes eating awesome Chinese food more affordable.

We definitely enjoyed eating these. It may look small but trust me, we weren't able to finish it because those little dishes can fill you up quickly.

Finally, before we left, we indulged one more time with Marco Polo's afternoon tea. Whenever I have afternoon tea at Marco Polo, I always feel like royalty. The way the scones and bread are presented in this lovely silvery tray, the coffee, and the way it's presented just makes you feel like you are VIP.

My family was definitely impressed with Marco Polo Ortigas. They loved how beautiful the place is, the majestic sunset at Vu's Sky Bar, the fancy Chinese dishes at Lung Hin, and the buffet that one can feast on at Cucina. Overall, it was definitely a staycation that was an indulgence from beginning to end. We expected nothing less from a Forbes 5 Star Hotel such as Marco Polo Ortigas.

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on forgiving ...

The other day I wrote about THE FIGHT.

Yes, let's call it that because it is the biggest fight we have had to date and I hope that it is the biggest fight we'll have for a very long time. After all, it is the worst and it really was hurtful.

The main thing that I worried about should we fix thing was how I'd get over what happened. I couldn't imagine us being okay again and for me to be comfortable around him again. I thought that just like before, I wouldn't be able to get pass it and have to relive things again and again.

Well I did ... but only for a day. A day after we started talking, I was still upset about it but what I like about M is that he answered all my questions and in the end, he finally said what I needed to hear. He assured me that he woud never ever  do what he did and I believe him.

It seems that when things are right, it's a lot easier to forgive and forget. Of course I'm not an idiot and so I also told him that should he do it again, he can kiss everything goodbye.

love me or love you?

One of the things that I have never had to question myself about was my ability to love other people. Historically, I have always been the type of person who loves until she has nothing left to give. This is the time that I normally give up on people.

I love and I love until I can love no more. Many have told me that this is not a good way to love because when it's done, you are left spent, broken, and empty.

I agree.

When a relationship ends, I am always left spent, broken, and empty. Friends and family would then help me build myself again piece by piece, gluing things one at a time. Sometimes, a part would break apart once more and leave a gaping hole then my friends or family would scramble to help me fill that hole.

I realized that I didn't want to love like that anymore. It's not healthy and it's not right. This is why it took me so long to open up to a new relationship. I was scared of loving someone the way I used to and then getting hurt again.

I think I became too good at it because my little sister once said to me that Sam Smith's Too Good at Goodbyes has become my national anthem. She said that I was so good at protecting my heart and my self that I can easily say goodbye and walk away just like that.

Then came M.

For the last 3.5 months, he has been around. He would tell me on an almost daily basis how lucky he feels to have me in his life. He would be so grateful for things that I do for him. Heck, he moved from Cainta to the South to be nearer so we could get to know each other better and spend more time together.

He would always tell me that he wants us to sort things if we have misunderstandings or miscommunications. He would say sorry when he does something wrong and assure me, ASSURE ME, that he would never do anything to damage the relationship.

He made me feel secure.

"I'll put our relationship first over my pride."

"You are the best thing that happened to me."

"I never want to lose you."

Last night, we had a MINOR spat or so I thought. No matter what angle I look at it, it was one of those spats that could have been resolved asap. However, it seems that he misinterpreted either my actions or words again and he retaliated. He retaliated and inflicted pain on me because he was mad.

This is why wrath is one of the 7 deadly sins. When we feel anger, we say things we don't mean. We do things we don't mean. We inflict pain because we are mad. We are mad because we hurt and to feel better about hurting, we inflict pain thinking that it will make us feel better. I hope what he did made him feel better because he succeeded in hurting me immensely.  What he did was so painful that I have not been able to cry at all since last night. 17 hours later and no tears but my heart keeps breaking and has been breaking bit by bit for the last 17 hours.

A part of me wants to reach out because I love him and I want to fix things but I don't know how to. I don't know how this can be fixed now that I know he is capable of hurting me that badly and disregarding me completely. Everything he said, promised, and assured me of in the last 3.5 months ... it blew up in my face when he left me standing in the parking lot. My heart started breaking a minute after when I realized he wasn't coming back. It broke completely when I confirmed he got home safe and was sound asleep without a care if I got home safe as well.

A part of me says that I did not deserve that kind of treatment and to not tolerate it. I should just walk away as well and that I'll be better off on my own. I have been okay for the last 4 years so the almost 4 months can be just a blip in the story of my life.

I'm not mad. I wish I was. It would be so much easier. Mad is easy to handle. Pain, pain of this level, that's different. I don't know what will happen. Honestly, I don't even know if we're still together coz we had an agreement that should someone walk out, then it's over.

He didn't just walk out. He drove off in such a hurry I turned around to make sure death wasn't running after him. He left me standing there ... on my own ... in the middle of the parking lot not caring if I got home safely ... not caring if he just broke my heart ... not caring that I am now left with the question do I choose to love him or should I choose to love me?

Benefits of Novuskin Lift

Novuskin Lift is the gold standard in anti-aging and skin brightening, formulated with 18 of nature’s finest rejuvenating ingredients. The unique combination of marine fish collagen, plant-derived antioxidants and co-factor nutrients, this natural ingredients work synergistically to slow down aging and brighten the skin.



Why does anti-aging matter? 

Anti-aging is one of the biggest problems of the people of today. Due to stress, fast paced life, and the constant exposure to different harmful chemicals, people age faster nowadays and the wear and tear of daily life is easily seen.
People nowadays feel that they need to take care of their skin more and more. In fact, this is one of the leading skin concerns that people have. People do not want to look their age. However, there are only a few products out there that can deliver on their promise.

How does Novuskin Lift work? 

Novuskin has 18 of nature’s finest rejuvenating ingredients mainly marine fish collagen. Marine collagen provides 8 out of 9 essential amino acids, including substantial amounts of glycine and proline which perform important functions throughout the body. Glycine is an all-encompassing amino acid that promotes the building of lean muscle mass, impacts the central nervous system to prevent formation of stomach ulcers, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and improves glucose tolerance to protect against diabetes. Proline is important for stimulating collagen synthesis and works as an antioxidant by scavenging free radicals to prevent cell damage.

Marine fish collagen is also environment friendly. It helps in building bone strength which is one of the main things that immediately gets affected by aging. Marine collagen also helps in stabilizing blood sugar as well as cholesterol which are ailments commonly associated with aging.

It also helps in ensuring that wounds heal faster and even improves the appearance of scar. Another benefit is the fact that it reduces inflammation and has anti-bacterial effects. This is why Novuskin Lift is effective in helping with anti-aging.
Novuskin Lift supplements are sealed in moisture-resistant package to preserve the quality of the product. Packages containing 30 tablets are available at Mercury Drug and Watsons outlets nationwide.

AVON's pink selection

They said that only women with fair skin can rock pink but Avon begs to differ. Avon believes that there is a pink hue for every Pinay and they got that one right.
We all know that when facing life's challenges or obstacles, all we need is some pep talk from our friends, mentor, or family. However, there are times that all it takes is the right kind of pink lipstick to tell the world that you're ready to slay. As 2018 finally rolls in with the Chinese New Year, it is all about PINK.

Avon ensures that for every phase, stage, moment, or pivotal point in a Filipina's life, there is a shade of pink that will help the Pinay conquer it. After all, there is nothing more dangerous than a woman armed with the right shade of lippie. From soft blushes to energetic pinks, Avon offers more than just lipstick shades. They offer swipes of confidence, happiness, and of course, beauty.





This year's trend in color has a pink for every Pinay. If you're feeling fun and ready for a night out, Avon True Perfectly Matte in Electric Pink will get the job done. If you're ready to ask your boss for that promotion, be gorgeously bold with Avon True Color in Hot Pink. If romance is in the air for you, Avon True Perfectly Matte in Mauve Matters is a splendid choice to make your lips irresistible. Lastly, to give off a pure and innocent aura, the all new Avon True Ultracolo in Sunny Pink is an ideal choice. This coral pink shade has a satin finish and it's bright enough for a summery day at the park.



Pink is for every Pinay and Avon has covered all bases, all occasions, and all of life's milestones. No matter what chapter of your life you are about to step into, Avon will be there by your side, boosting your confidence, cheering you on, and making sure you stay beautiful all the way.

Cruising the high seas in effortless indulgence with Star Cruises

With the gentle swaying of the sea that seems to lullaby its passengers, a timely cruise can bring a much-needed calmness, even to the weariest of travellers. Just imagine, spending days at sea in complete solitude, staring at the vastness of the open ocean with nary a thought of one’s daily troubles. Days full of exciting possibilities with nowhere to be, no one to see, and best of all, no distractions - a complete cruise-cation to celebrate life.

In the past decade, cruises have become one of the most popular ways to relax and see the beauty this world has to offer. With its unique destinations, cost-efficient rates, and state-of-the-art ships, it comes as no surprise that cruising continues to gain popularity, especially among Filipinos.

 

This year, Star Cruises announced that its 269-meter cruise ship, SuperStar Virgo, will homeport again in Manila for the summer months from March to May. With absolutely no visa requirements, the 6-night SuperStar Virgo cruise offers two travel destination packages. The first package will start at the Manila port then a day will be spent on the high seas. The next two days will be dedicated to seeing Naha in Japan, and Keelung in Taiwan. The fifth day will be on the high seas again, and then the cruise will head back to Manila on the sixth day.

The second destination package starts at the Manila port followed by a day cruising the high seas on the way to Ishigaki, Japan, on the third day. The fourth day will be spent seeing the beauty of Keelung, Taiwan, then to the high seas on the fifth day, and then back to Manila on the sixth day.

Besides the great destinations, and interesting land tours, a lot of people miss out on the fact that the SuperStar Virgo is itself, a giant floating destination. Packed with entertainment facilities, exquisite dining outlets, and duty-free shopping, the cruise ship has just about anything one could ever need or want.

The nightly live performances on the SuperStar Virgo showcases some of the world’s best singers, acrobats, and magicians, set to tickle ones imagination.  What’s more, the cruise offers various options and thematic activities fit for the whole family, not to mention, the wide range of dining outlets, retail shops, relaxation, and entertainment facilities.

The huge pool and giant slide continues to be a top favourite of passengers. Imagine sliding and splashing in the pool on top of a cruise ship, right in the middle of the ocean. And what better way to enjoy an unobstructed view of the perfect sunset gracefully going down the horizon, then to see it on the viewing deck.

Cruising offers the perfect vantage points to take photos of the endless sea complimented by the clear blue sky. It features an unspoiled canvass showcasing the breath-taking magnificence of nature’s beauty.  Savor the various sights, sounds, and even the smell of crisp clean air over a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee, while basking in sweet retreat, solitude, and surrender.

Catch exclusive offers for the 3^rd and 4^th passenger for free, if booking is for the Inside State Room, Ocean View State Room, or the Balcony State Room on March 30, April 14, 19, and 24, and on May 4, 14, and 29, 2018. There is also a free balcony upgrade during the mid-season sailing.

A 20% additional Senior Citizen discount will likewise be offered on April 14, 19, 24 and on May 4, 14, and 29, 2018. Avail of other special promos including the “Cruise One, Take One” two-for-one summer promo, a 2-night Manila high seas cruise, from February 14 to 18, 2018 at the 2018 Star Cruises Cruise Fair at the Greenbelt 5 Gallery, Ayala Center, Makati City. For inquiries, call (02) 8366080 or visit www.starcruises.com.

For an insight on how the cruise was for our editor who went last year, here's a peek.
Laoag Taiwan Hong Kong

How A Better Florist Makes a Difference in Singapore

Innovation in Singapore can be found in all shapes and forms, even in the form of an amazing flower shop that changed the way people shop for flowers Singapore offers. A Better Florist was developed by enthusiast florists who wanted to make a change. No more waiting around for a flower delivery Singapore offers for days, getting the same old bouquets, and running around, wasting time trying to actually find a great flowers to take care of your needs. Take all of that, change it for the better, and you have A Better Florist. Here’s just why A Better Florist is better.

Luxurious yet Affordable

When you check out their website, or visit their flower shop, you’ll immediately see that the bouquets they create are stunningly different. It’s what you would usually see on Pinterest, only affordable and ready for everyone to grab. Their experience and talent enable them to craft the most beautiful flowers for all occasions. In addition to offering flowers, they also have fruit baskets Singapore has ever seen. A Better Florist offers a wide range of flowers, hampers, fruit baskets and overall gifts for any occasion. Whether you need flowers for someone’s graduation, or a get well soon hamper Singapore usually gifts to someone in recovery, they have it all, in one place, which is quite convenient

Simple Shopping Experience

Since it’s extremely hard to find a reliable hamper delivery Singapore offers online or even on the streets, A Better Florist decided to make you shopping experience a lot more simple. If you’ve never shopped for flowers online, then this will be a new experience for you. You can go shopping on their website, via mobile or computer, and order anything they have in their wide range of flowers and gifts. 

You can even order grand opening flowers Singapore businesses usually need, or funeral flower Singapore gets to express their sympathy and condolences. Although most of the world is used to online shopping, not a lot of florists have an online shop that’s so simple to use.

Outstanding Flower Delivery

With the best florist in Singapore, you don’t have to wait for the flower delivery every day, in anticipation when they will actually arrive. When you order a grand opening flower stand or a fruit basket, or anything they have to offer, you will get it on the same day. Their delivery is completely free, because they think that same day flower delivery Singapore offers needs to be a standard. If you want your order to come in even faster, they also have a pretty affordable express flower delivery Singapore has never had before, because it arrives to you within just 90 minutes. Because they have flower shops on various locations, they can make this happen for you.

Due to all these perks, and a completely different attitude towards the business and the customers, the best flower delivery in Singapore is concerned as one of the best florists in Singapore. They also have a Dubai flower delivery, as well as a Hong Kong flower delivery, just in case you’re not in Singapore and you’re eager to try them out. Because they were so successful in Singapore, they were able to expand further, and conquer new markets, which speaks a lot about their flower shop and a business on the whole. Not only are they the best flower delivery in Hong Kong, but they are often referred to as the best florist in Dubai and the best florist in Abu Dhabi.

Everyone needs a good florist, because it’s all about being able to share love with your loved ones whenever you want to. I highly recommend you check out this charming florist and experience true excellence.

Valentines 2018

This Valentines, I had no expectations. I was sick and Mark had work to do. All I was thinking of was to catch up on all my articles and surviving the day. Mark and I already talked about spending Valentines some other day so I thought that there wouldn't be anything.

Weird that I was okay with it coz before I used to make such a big deal out of Valentines but I guess when you find someone who makes you feel that everyday is Valentine's, you don't make a big deal out of February 14.

However, Mark had other plans and arrived at the hotel where my Mom, sister and I were looking like this.

Doesn't he look adorable? He had 3 bouquets with him; one for me, one for my Mom, and one for my little sister. He even had dark chocolate for my little sister as well.

And though we had no dinner plans, all of a sudden, Mark had 3 women to date for Valentine's day. Yes, you read that right. We spent our first Valentine's with my Mom and sister.

What I loved most was at the end of the night, when I thanked Mark for being so understanding about having to share this Valentine's with my Mom and sister was him saying that let's spend Valentine's like this all the time so that we can be your Mom's Valentine.

If I wasn't in love with this guy already, I would have fallen in love with him right on the spot.

Overall, it was really a unique Valentine's. K was the one who gave flowers to us (this has always been my role) and Bellevue gave us an Ecuadorian long stemmed rose. 

I hope that for any of you reading, may you feel love not just on Valentine's but every single day. Happy hearts day! 

Albergo Hotel in Baguio

During our 3 day stay in Baguio, we checked in at Albergo Hotel. We were lucky to stay at a unit in Albergo Hotel that you can book through Air BnB. I say lucky because we got to stay here for 3 days. The day before we got there, it was booked and the day we left, the very next day, it was booked.

It felt like it was really meant for us.

I loved how spacious the place was. It was a condotel but it felt like a home. The placement of the furnitures and the bed gave off the impression that it was a huge place.

There is also a dining table for 4 and a kitchen where you can cook simple meals.

This is the view from the couch.

They also have slippers for people to wear so that you can relax inside the condo unit.

The bathroom is pretty standard and offers hot water.

 And this is the view from the window.

On our first day, I cooked Jin Ramen and had some Korean coffee. This was made possible because on the ground floor of Albergo Hotel is a Korean store.

I really liked the place. It was complete, comfortable, clean, and really near all the tourist spots. It was also near Kamiseta, Cafe Yagam, and a lot of other coffee shops.

I'd definitely recommend this unit in Albergo Hotel. If you need to contact them, message this person.  You won't regret it.