A Beautiful Speck of Mindanao

True to life sweethearts, Ryan and Janis have been friends for almost a decade. Their fondness for anime served as the foundation of a wonderful camaraderie which later on blossomed into a beautiful love affair. Ryan finished Electronics and Communication Engineering while Janis took up Economics. In their pursuit of a successful career in their own field, the two took a surprising turn together. They ventured into various businesses such as call center training school, internet cafe, snack bar and the most recent, event organizing. From being anime enthusiasts to being friends to exclusively dating to business partners. These two have been through a lot.

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Coming from different field of expertise, organizing events tested their bond the most. But with sheer hardwork, perseverance and creativity they are able to find their niche in the business where competition is constant and complex. Ryan and Janis maybe far from having their own dream wedding, but they are committed in saying “I Do” in every opportunity that will squeeze their creative juices and passion in creating a truly unforgettable episode in one’s life.

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Ryan and Janis are also very fortunate that their business venture is supplemented with collective talents and efforts of dedicated professionals, family and friends who vow to create events that are cost-efficient and uniquely true to their clients. Artistic teenagers also play integral part. They are a true testament that the today’s youth still has so much potential. Given an opportunity they’ll gonna shine brightly.

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Meeting these people was just one of the many highlights of my 15-day vacation in Surigao City last April. Surigao, as we all know, is part of Mindanao region. That is why it is so heartbreaking that in some parts of the region, there is war. Surigao has left me with pleasant images - from the sceneries, the fresh air, the simple life, to the artistry of the people. I believe what I saw was just a speck of more marvellous things to explore. Ang ganda ng Mindanao. Mindanao has so much potential. It is so easy to fall in love. Unfortunately, this seemingly endless violence is causing everybody (even foreign tourists) to be extra cautious. Personally, it paralyzes my desire to see the other parts. Even if the war ends, it would take me a lot of guts (and prayers) to make a visit. Because war leaves negative impact. It hurts not only our economy but above all many are being killed. Next, we lose our freedom to savor God's natural gift.

#PrayingforZamboanga

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Big Day Blues

Countdown to 30 – Last in Series

Even up to this day, I can hear people call me Ineng or Ne. In rare occasions, Miss. I’m not here to brag. It’s just that many people constantly find me young looking (kapal). It’s probably because of my short stature that I am consistently mistaken for being a knee-high to a grasshopper. It’s music to my ear to certain extent. And I really thought I’m used to it. But the music is slowly becoming like a noise. I just wish to be treated like an adult the same as most people my age.

I realized recently that self discovery is not easy. For those who know me personally, I assume they have more profound explanation why they still consider me as a young girl more than a woman that I am today. I really thought I have always been responsible for my own actions. It is not in my nature to blame others whenever I fail. However, as I continue to recall some old episodes in my past I am beginning to doubt my disposition. Through the years I feel that I have not matured, striking enough to lift myself up high after a hard fall. And I am indeed secretly feeling bitter over a lot things. I can lie to anyone but not to myself.

I have always been a dreamer. When I dream, instantly I can see vivid pictures in my head, illustrating the outcome of that vision. But as I grow old, the quality of the photos I saved in my brain memory is fading faster than before. It’s because I am losing confidence in myself and faith in the character of others. I hate it because I am writing this when I am supposedly sharing happy memories and positive outlook about the future. After everything that has been said in my last two previous posts, here I am opening up quite miserably. This is my big mouth and my wired nerves speaking once again. I do not intend to dwell in this situation permanently, that’s why. So please forgive me for ending the series full of drama.

Breathe in. Breath out (repeat 5x).

Three days to go, I am entering a new decade. My mother is already lay-outing plans for my big day. But I am somewhat sceptical if I will pursue my grand plan or a simple feast with the family will do. I am also anticipating to buy a book, a blue jeans or maybe a 500-piece puzzle set as gifts for myself. However, those are just temporary remedy. With or without it, I’ll be fine actually. More than anything I pray that I will be on the ball soon. If I have the nerves to whine, I should also have the courage to pick myself up. Strangers might still be deceived. Fine! Call me Ineng; Ne; or Call Me Maybe (Joke). But for the people that really matters, I hope to prove that the little girl they used to see has grown up. I am a woman. I am 30.

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Playact

Countdown to 30 – Second in Series
(last edited 12/08/2013)

I want to be a successful entrepreneur. I really wish that one day I will own a business that will create jobs for many hardworking and persevering fellow Filipino. This is my ultimate dream in life. But realities are hitting me left and right giving me reasons to just forget about it. Like, I can’t be too ambitious. But in the last two days, I am seeing a slideshow in my head. I have been imagining the exterior of my own establishment where my food business/es will come to life. As I go along in this visualization, I discovered quite a lot of things about myself.

This is my model facade

or this...

I find old Filipino style house simply gorgeous and elegant. Amidst the emergence of modern exteriors, a classic facade is the true unique.  

Windows should look like this (to be transformed into food stalls)

or this...

Just few tables on the right side

Tables and chairs that can accomodate small or large group

Under a roof that looks like this...

or this...

Initially I just wanted a huge white umbrella attached on top of each table but rainy season is a major consideration. I thought a concrete roof is more convenient.

A television and a good sound system would be entertaining

I want to cater my guests with a little entertainment while savoring their sumptuous meal. Just as what I want to experience when I dine in elsewhere.

My inspiration for the grilling station

I want to serve grilled foods. And I want the grilling station to have a character away from the usual.

Drinks Station should look like this...

I'm so in love with this. It's simple yet complete. 

This concept could be a one stop shop for Hot and Cold. Don't you think?

and of course...

A festive mood is a joy to watch

It's always a delight to see group of people simply having fun over non-stop chatting and of course good food. This kind of ambiance will surely make someone's day 

Overall I want a classic Filipino architecture with a touch of modern elements that has a homy and welcoming vibes - just a simple place that will bring family and friends together in one table. I don't know exactly how am I going to put this whole thing into reality. This is beyond DIFFICULT. But thank God dreaming is free. For now, I just want to end this post with this quote I received in All Devotion from Facebook

Today, we believe that God wants you to know that...  

the surest way to become is to playact.

Whenever you wish to change yourself, but find it difficult, start as children do by pretending that you already are. As you play at being who you wish to become, the playact itself will surely transform you. 

P.S. I just read this quote yesterday morning. And I thought it was God talking to me through the social network. See, God is using even the small things to tell us his message. It really feels good to pretend like a child and see my dreams come to life. This is a great thing that I'd like to turn into a habit. :)

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