2014

Down to the last day of 2K14! It's been one crazy hell of a ride of challenges, changes and chances for me... Looking back from day one of this year, I know I have gone through a lot - from aching to part with my College life, surpassing dengue, quitting my first job, to the biggest leap I've done (so far) of moving to Dubai and living my life in independence. So many highs and lows which I endured (and still do), so many tears I've shed and kept to myself, so many times I felt totally lost and had no idea where I was heading to, so many points of breakdown. What can I say, a 21 year old girl who moved out of her comfort zone and voyaged for an adventure got a taste of what the real word really is like. Bitter sweet. Sour grape. Sweet lemonade.

But it was worth it. I have tapped on strengths I didn't even know were there or the things I'm capable of. I understood that some people aren't so nice. And, I knew who are most important to me and whom I'd want to keep in my life. Take this as my year-ender entry while I'm speed typing it, sitting in the office. All we have here is time, what we do with it, that's our life. No one is ever too young, too old, too busy or too poor to go after their dreams. And coupled with God's grace, you will be in awe! After all the bumps and hurdles, 2014 did not disappoint. I am filled with a renewed hope for the year ahead. And on a personal note: Don't get stuck in the moment (no matter how  good or bad it might be) Trust that there are bigger, brighter things coming, that there is always tomorrow and exciting things to come in 2015! xxx

This Time of the Year

It's a wonderful cold breeze brought about by the season and the warmth of having family and friends together... 

Back home in the Philippines, this season has been in full swing since the -ber months have entered. Parols lined out in the streets, decorations extravaganza, the playful lights (I remember watching year by year a new lights set up at the CCP Complex whenever I go home by bus), the fluffy and tasty bibingka and sweet-that-melts-in-your-mouth puto bumbong after every Simbang Gabi which I can only satisfy my craving for once a year.  These are the little things that I miss from home and remind me 'tis the season! Coupled with my Mama's natural decor designing skills and master-planned Noche Buena.  It's always a full-blown feast in the PH, it doesn't matter if you have much as long as you have your family around the tree. (And by family, that includes our pet dogs and cats :> ) Meanwhile, in the Middle East, I am comforted to see Christmas decors up in Hotels and Malls, to hear carols from our Kababayans and greetings from our non-Christian friends and colleagues. I too give myself a little help by firing up my 8tracks with happy + Christmas songs (It gives me the feels...)

This is the first time celebrating Christmas away from home. (May tatalo pa ba sa Pasko ng Pinas?!) The season's spirit has delayed sinking-in to me, as I have only got to put on my Santa hat to do some Christmas shopping on Christmas day!! Putting away all the longing for family (friends included) and scrambling for gifts, is resetting yourself to the true reason of the season. No matter where you are or what you're going through - this is a time (more than ever) to be grateful to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for coming into our lives. PocketFuel has written it best. Isn't this a wonderful time to reflect and get fired up more for the coming year that's just a stone-throw-away? 
I hope you find meaning at this time of the year and exciting things to come in 2015! xxx

Al Ain Photo Diary

Al Ain is UAE's little gem in the middle of the desert. It gives you that serene, peaceful and provincial vibe. We were spoilt with fresh air, cool breeze, landscapes and greenery far from the hectic lives we tend to get used to in Dubai. Some of the things that I've missed back in the PH. Walking in their vast park while enjoying the beautiful weather (it's been deliciously good since the season changed; I tell you, this is the best time to come visit the AE) was a breather from the hustle 'n bustle of the city! I too admired the Palace Museum which was just a few walks from our Hotel and reflects the rich cultural past of Emirati Heritage. The Al Ain Palace Museum or Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum was the actual palace of His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan (President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi). Built in 1937 which, later on, has been converted into a museum which retained the olden time and elegant feel of the Emirati Royals. I still remember the last time I fell for Islamic Architecture, here. An hour and a half drive to Al Ain wasn't bothering at all. Found between Abu Dhabi and Dubai and home to the amazing Jebel Hafeet (so I've learned, Jebel is the Arabic word for Mountain). The road up Jebel Hafeet was a mesmerizing sight, with the hills covered in a blanket of glistening lights while being surrounded by natural landscapes you know were the works of one amazing creator. She's a beauty you wouldn't wanna miss.