Super Delayed after a Year Update of our Tagaytay Tour Part 2 (so this is history)

I would like to apologize that I wasn't able to update my blog in a year. As I logged in once again I realized that the title I placed on my latest article has a part 1 on it. I just laughed because my part 2 would just be posted now---after a year. Well, I won't keep you waiting. Our Day 2 (Dec 13, 2014) in Tagaytay was so blissful. Fr. Henry's friend who is also a parish priest in Tagaytay lent us his van and let his driver take us to different wonderful spots in the city. We felt so blessed because it was for free, however, we couldn't help but give even a small yet sufficient amount of money to the driver, as a token. He was kind-hearted, jolly and a great tourist guide. First, we went to Nasugbu, Batangas, to see my favorite church-- Caleruega. It was my dream wedding destination when I was in college. When we got there, it was so cold because it was raining. It was far from Tagaytay and the pathway to Caleruega Church was not yet fully developed. But there were lots of visitors that moment.

They have a souvenir shop, several kiosks for retreats and recollections and the main church was above a high cemented staircase. There were numerous plants and flowers. It is such a great place to reflect and celebrate at the same time. Bien and I were so excited and we took several pictures.

Next stop was Sonya's Garden in Alfredo, Tagaytay. Wow just wow! Places like this just want me to stay. Plants were subject of artistry. Vines were shaped in several arcs and below are wooden benches that when you'll take a seat you'll feel Their souvenir shop had pricey items yet all worth it coz they were unique and of good quality. They sell plants, ladies' accessories, clothing, home decors, herbs and healthy foods which mostly have malunggay as the main ingredient. They also have a perfume shop featuring different scents of flowers. A bakery is also located near the entrance. I love the design of the building---so classy and gave me the 1950's feel.

After spending an hour in Sonya's Garden, we had our lunch at Viewsite Restaurant, just along the highway. We chose a table where we could see Taal Volcano up close. Such a magnificent view! The food also tasted great! We were eating while enjoying a serenade from a local band.

Tummies were satisfied so we were on to hit the road again. Our first afternoon delight was Paradizoo. It was such a huge theme park/zoo both for kids and adults. It was so spacious. We felt like we were at a farm on a hilltop filled with various animals.There were also statues of Disney characters, cemetery for dogs and house for bees. There's also a cafe and souvenir shop for kids. The weather was fine this time so we enjoyed strolling around and stayed longer.

Next, we went to Puzzle Mansion. Oh my!!! The road going there was like we were going down from a mountain top. It was so creepy yet challenging. Well, baby was sleep... so she didn't experience any motion sickness. There's an entrance fee (but I forgot the amount). Before entering the building, someone will photograph you. Ok well when we reached 2nd floor that was when we understand why coz the staff will offer if you want your picture to be turned into a puzzle! oh sure! We had it with frame so we paid P700.00. It was worth it after all! You won;t know when will be your next visit so savor it! On the ground floor is a wide range collection of puzzles. Amazing! In the second floor, you'll find lots of souvenir items to but from keychains to clothing.

At 5pm, we went to Tagaytay Highlands. Never thought we could be there and attend the Holy Mass in that place! Thanks to father Henry's friend. We also witnessed the lighting of the giant Christmass tree!

Tagaytay Weekend Getaway Part 1

Our Weekend getaway (Tagaytay) Day 1 8:00 a.m. Picnic Grove 11:00 a.m. Tierra de Maria 12:00 nn lunch at Binalot sa Dahon (in front Olivares Plaza) 2:00 p.m. check-in at Tagaytay Country Hotel 6:30 p.m. dinner at the Hotel 7:00 p.m. strolling at Olivares Plaza (ukay-ukay) From Sorsogon City, my hubby and I with our baby, rode a bus and arrived at Turbina at 4:00 a.m. We stayed at a Bulalohan restaurant till 6:00 a.m. Then, we rode a jeepney to SM City Calamba. At the rear right of the mall, there is a van terminal. The first line is bound to Tagaytay Olivares. The van was so full that we couldn’t even move comfortably but at least we’re happy that we’re on the right track. The fare is only P70.00. Travel time is 45 minutes. We arrived at Olivares (Emilio Aguinaldo Highway) at 7:45 a.m. First, we looked for Tagaytay Country Hotel. We walked towards Olivares Plaza. I was so delighted to finally see this place. I’ve been searching about this on line and I started loving the design of each store and I love it even more this time. I just love those vines creeping on arched windows and doors. It was like I was in a classic film or a romance novel. There were also names of plants embossed on an oval shaped wooden piece after each store. We also found Olivares College at the back of a textile establishment. Then, there’s Tagaytay Country Hotel parking lot. Though there's another way to enter the hotel from the Olivares Plaza itself. You would pass a canteen or two and you will see a small gate. We didn't check in yet since we are required to do so at 2pm, as said on the e-mail sent to me. We rode a tricycle to Picnic Grove. Fare is P 60.00. Quite shocking but we can't do anything about it. Good that Tiera de Maria was near Picnic Grove so we decided to go there by just walking. Picnic Grove has an entrance fee of P50.00. It features zipline and cable car. It has lots of cottages for rent ranging from P150-P500.00.If you don't want cottages, they have tables with P100.00 rental fee. They also have souvenir shops and eateries. You can also have a relaxing time at the Fish Spa (P199.00) with free foot massage. There's also a canteen near the fish spa which serves snacks and goodies for kids. It also has a wishing well outside and some tables. What I love most is the exquisite view of Taal Volcano from a huge cottage above the zip line area. Below the said area, you can find a souvenir store and connecting bridges and stairs. We passed by a hanging bridge which made me sweat a lot 'coz I have fear of heights. But I did it anyway 'coz of hubby's convincing power.

After spending 2 hours in Picnic Grove, we walked to Tiera de Maria. Wow! The huge image of the Blessed Virgin is awesome and it's really a great place to meditate especially this Advent season. Mama Mary Store has lots of goodies. We lit a blue candle beside a wishing well, yes, this is the 2nd wishing well of the day! :) We even found Pope Francis T-shirt! We did not hesitate to buy 3 shirts. hahaha! We also spent time in the chapel where we found several images of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ. In the second floor, we found a huge tiled Calendar with images of saints. In the third floor, a closer look of the giant image of the Blessed Virgin. By the way, outside the chapel, there are plants for sale and you can see caged birds near the entrance. There are also huge religious paintings beside the pathway.

Finally, we had our lunch at Binalot sa Dahon Restaurant in front Olivares Plaza. I love their chicken recipe. We ordered Twin Chicken (as said in the menu) and those were huge and tasty ones. We just spent 2 hours in that restaurant 'coz baby started misbehaving and had her bathroom round.

Just meters away, was our most awaited destination-- the hotel. We were really yearning for some rest after 12 hours of bus ride and half day walk with our backpacks. We chose to pass by the Olivares College to the hotel's parking lot. We saw the main entrance and quickly hopped towards it. I excitedly grabbed the vouchers sent by Jobmatch Pro. Sir Lito, the Reservation Officer gladly accepted those and someone assisted my husband and I to our room. Baby was even quiet. Her eyes were busy looking at her new environment. She rolled happily on bed signaling that it's rest time. I love the room assigned to us! (Superior Room). It has a queen size bed, huge cabinet, coffee table, air condition, TV and refrigerator.It was so cozy, comfy and feels like home! We slept for several hours. Then we had our dinner at the Country Cafe. Yipee! time to use our restaurant voucher! Eating is more fun when it's free. Afterwards, we went strolling at Olivares Plaza. I love the ukay-ukay stores!There's also Puregold Jr. and budget-friendly Uno Dept. Store within Olivares Plaza.

If Only I Could Turn Back Time

I've been editing my resume over and over again. There is one item in it that I really want to erase, but it would appear questionable without it.My interviewer would be puzzled on what did I do for 3 long years.Two years plus three years, actually. I didn't want my emotion to rule over me but honestly, I feel like it should. Months ago, I admit that I've erased the "two-year job" indicated in my resume.Those two lonely years filled with stress and pressure. I feel that if I'd delete it from my resume I would forget all the hurt and anxieties that those years brought me but it never happens. Something happened last March that triggered me to strike it out from my resume. I don't want to remember that incident anymore. Right now, I am really thinking of removing the "three-year job" and simply say, well okay, I have no job for the first 2 years and the other 3 years. I just learned something that made me decide about it. I am trying to do my best in anything but still I'm being the one misinterpreted. Yes, I am not perfect, but to accuse me of something I didn't do is way too unfair. I get angry at times but I always control it. I even locked myself in the comfort room rather than shouting at someone who hurt me. And then now, I would discover that this person sees me as the bad one. It's so disappointing. The working environment taught me to be strong because I needed to.I'm hiding my crybaby side at all. Yes, I'm strict but I don't humiliate others. Well, it's really true that you can't please anyone. All I wish for is for me to forget all the bad things in those 5 years and let the good things remain. (if any)

just got my ezinearticles badge. :)

please vote for my baby!

http://www.babyvote.com/oct14/phrianessa-trixelle-larosa?fb_ref=997185 


your vote means so much to us! keep voting everyday!

Wallpaper Laws and Policies

We have laws, policies, rules and regulations. Even the smallest organization is equipped with policies. But there are times that those things are treated as wallpapers, decorations and worst, as trash. 

I remember my law professor once said that some laws are "hinatable" (derived from Bicol word "hinat" or "nahihinat" which means stretchable or flexible). He further said that this happens when laws are not fully applied or applied with some considerations. What are those considerations? It can be humanitarian or merely influence.... or should I say, just like a parent or a teacher who plays favorites. There are advantages and disadvantages. One advantage is that, you gave chance to that person after committing mistakes to rise up again, provided that he really deserves that chance. Well, it is still valid, right? So if that person committed a heavy offense but he promised not to do it again, some bosses or authorities would just say, "ah well, ok, stick to your promise." And we have to admit, most of us Filipinos, have soft hearts. It's not bad after all. But when needed, we truly have to be firm and stick to the policies not to the promises of erring workers. One of the disadvantages of the "hinatable policies" or laws is that, it gives people the picture of leniency and they can do what they want over and over again. Or might as well, some would also commit the same mistake because the first offender was pardoned easily. In an organization, workplace, local or national scene, everywhere, if the law-making body  shows leniency in implementing rules and regulations, there will be no room for improvement and those policies will just be laughed at and will be put to trash. What is now the use of coming up with those policies if it is not effectively implemented? We are taught to be good persons but it does not include the idea of tolerating violations of policies and laws. We should not be called kind, then, but idiots. It is happening most of the time. If we are dreaming to have a community where equality exists and justice prevails, we should do our part. Each of us should do something and make a difference. 

the laugh laugh laugh addict

I prefer radio more than TV. Just love listening to music because it calms a wounded  heart and heals a bad mood. I also love listening to radio shows. They are inspiring and enlightening. That's why I was so overwhelmed when offered a volunteer hosting slot in a local FM radio. I've been doing it for 3 years. Right now, I  have a show once in a week with religious co-hosts. We admit that we have ups and downs. We started so well. We gained lots of listeners. We have many promos and prizes. But sometimes, we couldn't attend to our show because we are all busy in our respective work. We usually receive 30 plus messages during our show, which overwhelms us. We also receive positive and negative comments. We all treasure those things. The usual comment we receive is that, we are laughing most of the time. Some would say that it sounds annoying and irritating over the radio. We noted that. Personally, I control my laughter and would just smile or bite my lips or would just turn away from the microphone so that I will not be heard when I'm laughing. Truly, we accept our mistake. We are just joyful persons and we enjoy each other's company.

However, I couldn't believe that I will be one of those people who finds laughing on air annoying. I really thought it is cool all the time, but it is not because to be laughed at is such an irritating and embarrassing experience, especially if it's done on air. I have been experiencing this for a lot of times but I just ignore it. However, I guess, my patience vanished that time. I was sharing something eagerly and the person who is inside the booth but not part of our show, started laughing so I stopped talking. I thought that something was wrong with my microphone. But I was wrong.She was laughing over my manner of talking and my co-hosts also asked me something like in a way of a joke. So I wrinkled because I couldn't accept that I sound mad while sharing, just like what they said. For me, I was just talking naturally, I wasn't even cracking jokes that's why I was shocked that they burst out laughing. Then, I just kept quiet. I didn't want to make a big deal out of it because I'm used to that kind of atmosphere but I realize that it was a form of disrespect. It's like I'm inside the classroom and my classmates were laughing at me while I'm called during a recitation. It is such a bad feeling. If to them, it is just a so-so ordinary laughter, well, for me, they should refrain from doing so because it's not really good to be laughed at without a valid reason. We can play jokes but if someone is serious of sharing ideas and the like, we should listen and smile if we want, but don't laugh. 

I am not angry, I'm just upset because we are all grownups. We should act like grownups too. Laughing is the best way to ease emotional pain but we should laugh only in the right time and place for the right reason. We are not crazy. We are not stupid. Yes, live, love and laugh but know our limits.

Momjunction's Exclusive Contest for Moms

hello everyone! honestly, i love joining contests online. most of the time, i would search for those and join without hesitation. now that i am a mom, i am more interested in joining contests for kids/babies/moms. it's definitely advantageous even if you don't get the prize, you get a priceless experience. great that i found another one.  i am much delighted to learn that Momjunction has an exclusive contest for moms like us! i personally like their site. it's very useful and informative. Moms should be visiting Momjunction regularly for more knowledge on motherhood.Please join for a chance to win an iPad2! so cool and fit for moms! Visit them on pinterest, facebook and twitter! why don't you try joining as well? goodluck to all of us! here's the link: http://www.momjunction.com/contest-for-moms/

Phrianessa Trixelle-- our little princess

"Hello world!"
said my daughter, Phrianessa Trixelle.

Just gave birth last May 14, 2014 at 9:54 a.m., normal delivery. Yipee! It was unexpected coz she came out 17 days advance but still, I'm glad, coz finally I surpassed the pain, discomfort, fear and the challenge... I am really grateful to God coz He never left me. Indeed, this baby girl is a precious gift from God!

Creative Writing Tutorial

hi there! do you have a passion for writing?! why not join the summer creative writing tutorial class?
1. for students 14-20 years of age
2. registration fee: P 1, 500.00 with handouts 
3. 10 slots only
4. venue: our residence at Magsaysay St. Bibincahan, Sor. City (near corner Gate 3 SPPVS)
5. 14 sessions only-- here's the schedule:
March  29-- 9am-11am
April 3, 4, 10, 11,23, 24, 25, 30 -- 1:30 pm-3:30 pm
May 1,2,7,8,9 -- 1:30-3:30pm

6. students' works will be featured on:www.facebook.com/groups/arastoryshop
7. by May 2014, their final work--which is a short story will be featured on wattpad.com . Each of them will have their own Wattpad account. 

I'm back

Oh my it's been  5 months of not visiting my blog. I am just so into facebook and twitter more. However, i got several good news for you. The biggest of them all is that I AM PREGNANT! YES! After 1 year and 4 months of waiting, I found out I'm pregnant last Sept. 28, 2013. I was so happy when I got hold of the two positive pregnancy tests! Right now, I am going 6 months. I have to wait for a week more. My due would be on June 1st but many people would say that I might give birth in advance because it's my first child. Well, I just have to wait for God's will. I keep on praying for the baby's health and I truly wish to have a normal delivery.

Second news is that, I stopped working as secretary. I was encouraged to continue but I chose not to. So, last December 2013, I started being a part time house wife and part time college instructress. Yes, still teaching Economics in a College Seminary here. At least I still have work even though it's for part time and then I do English/Filipino tutorials every weekend. However, I still hope that after I give birth I would be able to have a permanent job/career.

Third, is that, our Hello Father Tuesday Edition program is so doing well! We are now on our 8th month and I do wish that we will stay longer. :) Thanks to all our friends and listeners!

I am happy with how my life is going on right now eventhough my earnings decrease and I spend most of my time at home, I feel satisfied because I am preparing myself for a whole new role which is being a mom! :) I cant wait. I am so excited to meet our baby girl!

Hollie Cavanagh followed me!

After a year, finally hollie followed me on twitter. It feels so nice because I made a facebook page for her and joshua ledet. atlast, she recognized me! Good that I joined the fan lyric video surprise for her first single Outerlimit. I treated this as a birthday gift. The video came out July 17 and she followed me on the same day. It's just like a dream come true. You may laugh coz I sound like a teen but it doesn't matter. Happiness is for all ages, right?

here's the link of our video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0tZVHtciBh4

Bien and I After a Year

This was just taken last May 12, 2013. We have no 1st year anniversary photo :( but i guess this can also be considered. lol.

Our married life is going so well. Both of us are Pre Cana facilitators in our parish church. I couldn't even believe it's possible since we're just starting. But God gave us this chance and we're so grateful to Him.

Wedding Prep 101

Every bride should really have a notepad...yup, it's very effective. It should contain your schedule, future expenses, budget, guestlist,etc..  I divided my notepad to 3-- the Initial Prep stage-- the " Middle Prep" stage  and the "Post-Wedding stage". I also made a financial report of our expenses(ahahhaha) and kept all official receipts in place. My hubby is also helpful and would always check on "our fund" if it is still sufficient. It was tiring but challeging.

In the Initial Preparation Stage (which was 10-5 mos. before the wedding day), we picked our venue and officiating priest. We fixed a budget for our wedding which was less than P 100,000.00 (I won't reveal the exact amount--=)) We also conceptualized our invitations and wedding favors and listed approximate costs of the materials needed. We also prepared important documents like our birth certificates and baptismal certificates. We also sought advice from our parents and other married couples on how to plan a wedding. I don't believe in superstitious beliefs so I borrowed a wedding dress from my friend. I also talked with my uncle who is a couturier and offered a big discount for the rental of barongs and gowns for my entourage. I also canvassed the amount and cost for our flowers and decorations.

During the Middle Stage, I already placed our song choices in my notepad including the contact number of the head of the church choir. I also wrote down our guestlist so that we would be able to know or determine the number of invitations to be distributed. Four months before the wedding, I also wrote down favorite honeymoon destination spots which fit our budget. I always have an updated "Things to Do" list and I checked it out everyday.

The Post Wedding Stage, I wrote down the names of the persons that we should acknowledge including their addresses. We also sent them personalized thank you cards. And of course, I wrote down our honeymoon-pilgrimage experience!

Preparing for a wedding is a whole lot of fun! (I have no regrets)

what's so unique about our wedding?

It's not that I want to be frugal--- it's because I want a spark of uniqueness in our BIG DAY. First, instead of fresh flowers, I put out my mom's bridal bouquet (used on 1982) and reinvented it. I reused the ribbons. Dad was shocked and told me to clean it--hahaha and he was more shocked when he saw the finished product. I placed glittery decorative flowers, pearls  and butterflies in order to match our wedding theme--Easter Season... and presto! I have my one-of-a-kind bouquet!

The wedding invitation? I made a newsletter style invitation entitled--THE WEDDING HERALD. I'm happy to say that 100% of our guests LOVE LOVE LOVE our invitation because they'd never seen something like that before. I'd written a short love story and the wedding details in the form of a news item. I thank God for giving me this idea. (and thanks to my personal computer---hahaha) My husband also called his friend to act as our photographer for this newsletter....hahaha.... so nice! It came out pretty well.

These...really are budget friendly!

We also had an easter-egg hunt during the reception and  we chose a movie-themed tarpaulin (Prince and Me--because we love movies)

Mr and Mrs. Larosa-- now and forever!

April 12, 2012--- the most memorable day in my life! Finally, I've exchanged vows with the man whom I dearly love--- God's special gift to me.After 3 years, we're officially married! It's one of the most joyous event in my life.

It happened at the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish, Casiguran, Sorsogon. It was a simple yet solemn wedding. We're grateful to the bishop, priests, relatives and friends who shared the special moment with us.

This event inspired me to revive my blogging habit. I simply want to share my happiness to everyone and also the things that I have learned from planning the wedding to our life now, as married couple. Today marks our 1st month of being Mr. and Mrs.!

I hope that you'll enjoy reading my experiences, thoughts and dreams!