4 Simple Tips to become HAPPY this coming Year

The coming year brings so much joy and anticipation among most people in all nations.  Many are focus in observing their own cultural traditions in welcoming the new year, such as preparing 12 different fruits in the table, wearing clothes with round prints, making noise to cast away evil spirits, and the likes; WHILE, some are choosing to give focus in making their own new year's resolution. But, there are also others who do not care much with those "ceremonial" stuffs.  They just want to leave everything in their lives in the hands of the Almighty and ever-living GOD. 

WATCH: Remembering the Risen Christ at the Japanese Tunnel in Baguio's Botanical Garden

When we entered the Japanese Tunnel, we remember the biblical account when Mary Magdalene and the other Apostles discovered the empty tomb of the LORD. What a great joy to reflect, early in the morning, the fact that JESUS IS ALIVE and defeated for us the sting of death.

IN REVIEW: Albergo Hotel and Residences, Baguio City

For every out-of-town vacation, it is a must to have a decent hotel or transient accommodation. When I say decent, the rooms and some facilities are worth the price we paid. In other words, it must be consistent to what is being advertised. 

Last Christmas Holiday, our family went to Baguio City. Initially, we're trying to book a family room in Manor Hotel, Kamiseta Hotel and the Newtown Plaza Hotel. Unfortunately, they are fully-booked because of the holidays. And so, we ended up booking a family room at Albergo Hotel and Residences. 

Some of the Best-Tasting Restaurants in Baguio City

The cold weather in Baguio City and the beautiful sceneries around are perfect combinations to trigger your gastronomic adventures. Here's a list of some of the best-tasting restaurants in Baguio City that will surely satisfy your cravings for delicious food:

1. HILL STATION RESTAURANT at Casa Vallejo  - This restaurant is located along the famous Session Road in Baguio City.  It's very near SM Baguio and Burnham Park. If you don't have a private car, you can just ride a taxi cab and the drivers will take you there. The place is very popular since Casa Vallejo is one of the oldest and historical "institutions" in Baguio City. 

At the restaurant, we tried out their Pinoy and Country breakfast platters in the breakfast menu (served from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM). Each platter, which is already "generous" for 4 persons, only costs us Php. 580.00; and that is roughly Php. 145.00 only for each individual.  The prices are very affordable considering the delicious food selection; and the spacious and peaceful ambiance of the restaurant. 

The place is very ideal for couples who'd like to have a romantic and intimate date.

Christmas Festivities at Mandaluyong City Hall

Yesterday night, we went to Mandaluyong City Hall with the intention of finding some good items in different "tiangge" stalls set up around the Maysilo Circle. We were surprised to find out that aside from foods, toys, accessories, and clothes, the whole City Hall and surrounding structures are all covered with beautiful Christmas lights of all kinds. Adding to Christmas "feels" of the Christmas lights is the loud sound system playing Filipino Christmas Music. 

The lights, the sounds, and the laughter in the crowd brought so much memories in our childhood days. Nostalgic, indeed!

Chillin' out at Bretz Cafe

After a long and tiring week of working in the office, we just thought of rewarding ourselves with some delectable foods. Upon recommendation from a friend, we went to Bretz Cafe located at Guadalupe in Makati City and near Kalayaan Avenue. 

It is striking to note that the interiors are full of bible verses and Christian messages which, one way or another, gave refreshment to our spiritual core.  The foods in the menu are very affordable that even an ordinary student can afford to buy. They have burgers, different kinds of pasta, breakfast meals, chicken, etc. They also have mouth-watering desserts named after famous personalities such as Bananabelle Rama, etc. The restaurant space is currently small which, in my estimate, can only accommodate 15 to 20 persons all at the same time.  Your Php. 150.00 can individually go along way.

In Search for Affordable Christmas Village at Dapitan Arcade

The Christmas Season is fast approaching, and many people are now busy preparing for different Christmas stuffs such as food, reunions, and DECORATIONS. This year, aside from our traditional Christmas tree, we decided to add up a "mini" Christmas Village in our home.  My wife has always been a fan of Christmas Villages. But, her primary reason why she wants to set up one is not motivated by her personal desire alone, but by her selfless attempt to make other people happy, specially children, at least this Christmas Season. My wife wants all children who will come to us by Christmas day to be amazed by the Christmas Village and, again, make them happy (the way it made her happy whenever she sees one). 

We tried to look for Christmas Village items in different shopping malls, but majority have expensive prices. And so, we took heed some of our friends' advise to go to Dapitan Arcade in Quezon City. Well, it did not disappoint us, because a single piece of Christmas Village (without lights) costs around Php. 40 to 450. You just have to be keen and patient in going around the different stalls. 

Sumptuous Lunch at Sunnies Cafe

Yesterday morning, we went to Mega Mall Clinic for a supposed-to-be quick visit to an OB GYNE. Unfortunately, OB was late and we were number 4 in the queue. It was also nearing lunch time, and so we just decided to stroll around first to look for a food hub that can satisfy our hungry stomach.  We chanced upon Sunnies Cafe owned, according to wife, by actress Georgina Wilson.  

IN REVIEW: Siglo Suite at the Gramercy Residences

The celebration of All Saints' Day this year falls on Tuesday and the government, for some reason, also declared October 31, Monday, a non-working holiday. That means, LONG WEEKEND for us!  To maximize this rare opportunity, we decided to do some STAYcation in a "condotel" nearby.  We chanced upon Siglo Suite at the Gramercy Residences. We specifically chose this because we want to experience the Marina Bay-like infinity pool atop the building.  Unfortunately, the infinity pool was closed for some repairs. Such a disappointment! Anyway, we just opted to settle and dip-in to their lap pool just beside the closed infinity pool.

We booked a deluxe room for an overnight stay for 4,200 pesos, inclusive of breakfast. Our room was located at the 58th floor of the building. While on the elevator, you can literally feel the increasing air pressure in your ears.

IN PHOTOS: 10 Beautiful Wedding Churches in the City of Manila

Weddings are once-in-a-lifetime event for every couple. Choosing the best in everything, including the church, is nothing but normal. 

Church wedding, in my opinion, is very important because if the couple is really sincere in having God in their midst, they should present their Marriage vows before the Altar of the LORD. It need not to be extravagant because the important point is: to have their Marriage blessed by God thru the Minister of the Church. This way, couples are like the wise man "who built (their) homes upon the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock (Matthew 7:24-25)." 

Here are some photos of the beautiful churches in the City of Manila:

1. SAN SEBASTIAN CHURCH in Manila

LOOK: Amazing Pre-Nuptial (PreNup) Locations in the Philippines

For most soon-to-be wedded couples, "pre-nuptial" photos are now a MUST OR MANDATORY. Many will even spend a considerable amount of money just to make this photo session unique and elaborate. The practice is slowly becoming a vital part of every filipino wedding, and this could probably be a reflection of the Filipino psyche of sentimentality. Nevertheless, wedding days are once-in-a-lifetime event for every couples, and spending money to make all relevant events memorable are just reasonable and worth it. 

Here are some suggested places where couples can have a real good pre-nuptial photos:

1. LA MESA ECO PARK - Located at the heart of Quezon City. The Eco Park is a small portion of the big La Mesa Watershed. This place is very beautiful, picturesque and romantic. There is a minimal entrance fee (and additional energy fee) for those who would like to have photo shoot in the vicinity.

HoliDATE at Bistro Ravioli, Glorietta, Makati City

To cap our long weekend, we decided to go out and stroll around the neaby malls (Glorietta and Landmark) in Makati City.  Our initial plan was to window shop, buy some stuffs in the grocery and go home; but due to some unexplained reason, everything changed. We opted to eat first (again) and try look for a restaurant that will satisfy our crave, at that moment, for pizza and pasta. Our search did not disappoint.  Our feet led us to Bistro Ravioli, a small italian restaurant in Glorietta.

All Day Breakfast at KANTO FREESTYLE in Makati

Yesterday afternoon, after attending church services, we went to the newly-opened branch of Kanto Freestyle in Makati City to satisfy our cravings for delicious all-day breakfast foods. This branch, by the way, is located near the Saints Peter and Paul Parish Church in Barangay Poblacion. Unlike their branch in Mandaluyong, this one is more "private" and spacious. The only negative feedback we have (at least for us) were the accelerating cars just in front of the place. The cars were creating too much noise and smoke affecting the overall ambiance of the place.

Mang Rudy's Tuna Grill and Papaitan at Makati Avenue

Yesterday night, before ending our long weekend, we decided to walk around the neighborhood and nearby areas to look for a place where we can eat. Our feet and hungry tummy led us to Makati Avenue, home to restaurants and bars in the financial district. 

Right across the famous A.VENUE Mall is Mang Rudy's Tuna Grill and Papaitan. We heard about this food hub from an UBER driver a few weeks ago.  According to the driver, the food, especially Pork Sisig, is best tasting and affordable (Word of Mouth Marketing at work).  And so, our curiosity triggered. We tried out their Pork Sisig at Php. 210.00.   

IN REVIEW: The Newtown Plaza Hotel, Baguio City

The Newtown Plaza Hotel is located in C.M. Recto Street corner Leonard Wood Road in Baguio City. It is a relatively new hotel in town; very evident by its new furniture, interiors and facade. The Korean translations in every signage within the hotel vicinity made us think that the owner/s might be Korean Nationals; or it might be that the main target market of the hotel are Koreans who, according to the Department of Tourism Website, are the number one foreign visitors of the country by far. Nonetheless, our overall stay in this hotel was very convenient and satisfying. 

Back-to-back Birthday Celebrations at MAD MARK'S Kapitolyo

RLF: Last Sunday afternoon, we had a sumptous meal at Mad Mark's in Kapitolyo, Pasig City.  This is to celebrate two birthday celebrants in the group: myself and my friend, Jennie. It was a short meeting I would say, but definitely filled with candid interactions which will add-on to our friendship memories worth remembering. 

Tunnels and Mushrooms at Rizal Technological University

No one would ever think that a historical underground tunnel can be found inside the Rizal Technological University Campus in Mandaluyong City.  I, for myself, marveled upon seeing this right in front of my very eyes.  A piece of GEM in the Philippine World War II history!

According to some University Staff that I've spoke with, the tunnel dates back during the World War II. No one has ever dared to explore its whole stretch because of fear of snakes and other unknown species that might be thriving there. 

Currently, the entrance of the tunnel is being used as a "room" for commercial and experimental cultivation of different mushroom species. You see, even places with a heart-rending past can be transformed into a life-generating "machinery." The very minimal light and relative warmth inside the tunnel makes it conducive for a fruitful mushroom cultivation. 

If anyone wishes to learn mushroom cultivation and have a glimpse of the historical tunnel, you may reach out to the University's Biological Sciences Department and look for Prof. Medalla. 

Not by BREAD alone, but by LOVE!

RLF: Last saturday evening, my wife bought me a delicious treat from WILDFLOUR Cafe + Bakery.  Two different breads (don't know the names) were inside the take-out box. By plain eating, the breads  tasted ordinary, but not until the chocolate dip came into the scene. The chocolate dip gave the bread a flavourful taste which will make you crave for more.

Like the chocolate dip, our faith in JESUS gives meaning to our existence. Had He not changed our lives (and hearts); we probably wouldn't experience the freedom and grace that we feel today. 

In the gospels, the BREAD is the Body of Christ. We, on the other hand, as members of the Church, are His Mystical Body. We are called to be BREAD for others. That means, we must always be ready to be broken, shared and consumed by others - the way JESUS did the same. In short, we must be life-givers in the same way JESUS, the Bread of Life, is.    

Remember that we live not by bread alone - fancy bread for that matter - but by the LOVE OF JESUS and His life-giving Words.   

JESUS said: "I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.” -John 6:51

The key to a RESTFUL TRAVEL is seeking GOD

All of us, working professionals, are always looking forward for some vacation time, at least, once in a year. Some would like to have it spent with their families; some with their friends, and some would opt to be alone. But, no matter where you are or who you are with, don’t forget that the goal of every vacation is to REST.

REST, as I define it, is a moment or period of physical and mental peace in which a person can regain his or her holistic stamina. Even in the sacred scripture, God encourages His disciples to stop and have some moment of rest. For what purpose? To regain their zealousness after the exhausting demands of evangelization.  But, aside from the “regains,”our period of rest should also be an opportunity for us to give, that is, giving ourselves to GOD, the Source of all-good. In other words, rest, to be worthwhile, must reconnect us to GOD.

While on vacation, make sure to leave all the “baggages” behind that can possibly create the noise which can hinder our connection to the Divine.  Let us focus on the positive such as the beautiful sceneries around. A silent place, coupled with a silent heart, can amplify more the Voice of God. And, when we hear His voice, we must listen and decide to heed; because only by our total surrender to His HOLY WILL can we experience “rest for our weary souls.”

A HUSBAND'S PRAYER

Father in heaven, I praise you for giving me a wife as wonderful and Godly as she. Give me a patient heart to faithfully love her; the way Your Son patiently and faithfully loved the church. Give me a humble spirit to be of tireless service to her; the way Your Son humbly and tirelessly served the church.  Give me the strength to be always ready to die for her; the way Your Son willingly accepted death for the sake of the church. Give me the courage and might to protect her against all dangers; the way Your Son courageously and mightily protected the church against the malice and deception of the evil one.

And Finally, Father, please grant me the grace to be a Holy Husband. Remind me always that my fidelity to her is my fidelity to You. Keep me in Your sight and teach me to be a better husband in each passing day. May Your Spirit be upon me always so that I may lead her, and our (future) children, to be in Your loving and grace-filled presence. This I pray, in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.  

Written by: R.L.F.

SABANG X ZIPLINE: Where everything is BLUE and GREEN

Aside from the Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour, we also tried the ZIPLINE adventure in Sabang. Going there will require some calory-burning walk, because of the 30-minute trek up a hill where the starting point is located. The adventure costs around Php. 500 to 550 (forgot the exact amount). They offered two zipline positions, namely: sitting and "superman." We tried the sitting position because it is much cheaper compared to the other one. After all, one can still have a 360° view of the BLUE and GREEN environment regardless of the position.  BLUE for the ocean and sky; and GREEN for the island vegetation. 

 

Sabang Mangroves Paddle Boat Tour in Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Our paddle boat tour in the protected area of sabang mangroves is really unexpected. This only came up as a suggestion from our tour guide so as not to waste our time waiting in the long queue of tourists going to the world-famous underground river (FYI: the sabang area serves as the "gateway" to the underground river). We grabbed this opportunity of exploring the area, since according to the guide, a very rich biodiversity is thriving there. The tour costs around Php. 300 to 400 per person (forgot the exact amount) and inclusive of a boatman and an exclusive local guide. It is interesting to note that the paddle boat operation there is part of a community-based forest management efforts of the local government in collaboration with some non-governmental organizations. The locals there earn, while protecting the environment. They also earn, while educating the tourists about biodiversity and conservation. 

God’s "special" agents

Note: This is another out-of-topic post which I find worthy of sharing, so we can look at life in a different perspective and realize how blessed we are.

RLF: Children are God’s blessing. They are the source of countless joys not just in every family, but also in the respective communities where they belong. 

My youngest sister and my nephew are both Children, BUT with special needs. My sister is diagnosed with Global Developmental Delay and Seizure Disorder; while, my nephew is diagnosed with Global Developmental Delay, Seizure Disorder and Cerebral Palsy. Imagine, two members of my family are suffering from these neurological disorders whose permanent cures are not yet known to this date. While there are many people who are sympathetic and empathic with the kind of situation we are in, there are also some who are insensitive and judgmental.  

SHUT NOT HER WOMB: How Infertility can affect me, my family and my country

 Note: This may be out-of-topic, but I find this article (written by my husband) to be worthy of sharing. After all, dealing with infertility is currently part of our married life's JOURNEY and TRAVEL. 

The purpose of marriage is to create a family – complete with a child or children.  I am married to my wife for more than four years now, but the blessing of having a child seems far-to-be realized. My wife was diagnosed with uterine myoma and a total obstruction or blockage on her left fallopian tube. With these reproductive conditions, our doctor told us that my wife’s chances of conceiving is at 50%. Adding to our painful agony is the reality that my wife is also increasing her age. It is common knowledge that as a female ages, fertiliy drops. And so, my human mind tells me that our time is running out.  This article hopes to initiate social consciousness about the alarming rate of infertility in the  Philippines; including its impact to the life of infertile couples and the nation as a whole.

The Delicious Korean Bing Su of Cafe Seol Hwa

Summer has officially ended as of this blog post, but the craze over Korean Bing Su will continue until infinity.  It is not surprising that Filipinos are going "gaga" over this Korean dessert because of its resemblance to our very own HALO-HALO and CON YELOS, such as Mais con yelo, Saging con yelo, etc.  The only MAJOR difference, we think, is the price range. Korean Bing Su ranges from 150 to 300 pesos depending on the flavor. Whereas the common halo-halo and con yelos in the neighborhood only ranges from 15 to 50 pesos.

IN REVIEW: Azure Urban Resort Residences

If you are looking for an affordable location in Metro Manila where you and your family can relax and have fun, Azure Urban Resort is GENERALLY, in our opinion, a great place to stay.  Inside the facility, you can use the wave pool and the man-made beach for a minimum fee of Php. 20.00 provided that you are checked-in as guest or you are accompanied by a tenant.  Some other facilities such as the Beach Volleyball area and lap pool can only be used in the presence of the actual tenant.  The use of their pools are until around 5 or 6 PM. 

IN REVIEW: The El Nido Cove Resort

El Nido Cove Resort is located at Sitio Lamoro in Barangay Pasadeña. It is a 20-minute ride away from the El Nido town proper.  According to the staff, the resort is owned by the Ayala Group of Companies along with the other resorts located in some of the exclusive islands in the area. El Nido Cove is the only resort occupying the whole stretch of Lamoro Beach. Thus, giving its guests a much needed privacy and stillness away from the noise of the town proper. The place is highly recommended for couples who are looking for some quiet moments alone with each other.  But, of course, you can also bring your group of friends here, but be sure to minimize the volume of your voices as a sign of respect to other guests who find relaxation in a silent atmosphere.   

IN PHOTOS: The Hidden and Secret Beach of EL Nido, Palawan

We just don't know, but the feeling of "PEACE" and "SOLITUDE" warm our hearts every time we see the ocean; hear the attractive sound of its waves; and play along the sand in the shore.  

Experiencing first-hand the stunning beaches in El Nido is truly a blessing from GOD.  It allows us to see, even in a bit, the mastery and majesty of GOD, the Creator of all things.  In the Nicene Creed, GOD is the Creator of the visible and the invisible, which undoubtedly includes the HIDDEN and the SECRET.

Here are some photos in El Nido's world-reknowned Hidden and Secret Beaches:


THE HIDDEN BEACH

STAYcation at Legend Villas, Mandaluyong City

Our nephew's vacation with us will soon be over and she'll be back in Nueva Ecija for her summer tutorial lessons.  To maximize her summer vacation with us, the family decided to look for a nearby place where we can relax, bond and, of course, SWIM.  The initial plan was to go somewhere in Batangas, but due to time constraint, it did not push forward.  We also considered Ace Water Spa and Sofitel, but just the same, we failed to push forward for a variety of reasons. 

To make the long story short, we ended staying at LEGEND VILLAS in Mandaluyong City. The place is very accessible because it is near the MRT-Boni Station and located specifically at the back of Robinson's Mall (Pioneer).  The architectural design of the entire villa is very Filipino with a modern twist. The staff are friendly and helpful. The prices of the rooms are also "budget-friendly." Overall, we are completely satisfied with the services we received. 

We would recommend the place for married couples who would like to pause for a moment and escape the busy world of their respective professions. The privacy and the atmosphere of the place will surely refresh them and, to some extent, deepen their matrimonial bond.