Conquer thy Fears

In the previous blog post, I bragged about a new talent that I have acquired this year. That is, to mix alcoholic drinks. But aside from this, I am also proud to say that I have conquered two of my biggest fears in the last few months: driving alone and needles.

Let's talk about needles.

Obviously, I don't like needles. When I was younger, I hated injections. There was even a time when I gave my parents and my doctor a hard time when I hid under the latter's desk to prevent her from administering my flu shot. I remember that it took 3 men to bring me out of my hiding place. Oh and I was already 12 years old then. Kakahiya no? Haha.

It was because of this fear of needles that I never went to the derma. Unfortunately, last July, I experienced a major skin breakout that required immediate attention. So, hello to my first ever facial. I was literally shaking when I saw the technician holding the injection. But it was actually a good experience.

It is because of this fear of needles that I always, always take care of myself. I make sure that I don't get admitted to the hospital out of fear of the dextrose. Aside from this, I also hate blood tests. I got one two years ago and I almost fainted. But then again, because of my favorite sin, vanity, I had to undergo another experience whereby needles are involved. Yes, I got injected four times because of this. Although painful, I can say that my fear of needles has actually diminished.

What about driving alone?

My dad taught me how to drive when I was 18. I followed it up with driving lessons with a1 two years ago. But I never learned. You see, I learn best when I study something by myself. Unfortunately, I have a fear of driving alone.... And cars that make use of manual transmission. So yes, I never learned.

A month ago, my sis left her car at my dorm and asked me to bring it to the place where we were supposed to meet. I know that I have the basic driving skills but I just don't know how to use the clutch. Since her car is automatic, I braved the streets of Alabang, driving alone. It was indeed a fulfilling experience. Hahaha.

Unfortunately, I have yet to conquer another fear, that is, my fear of stoves and that also prevents me from learning how to cook. In 2013, maybe?

 Ten months ago, I posted on my Tumblr page that one of my goals for 2012 is to learn how to mix drinks and I am proud to say that I have accomplished this!

Breaking Dawn Part 2

I admit, I am no Twilight Fan. I never watched the first four films in the Cinema. I remember how some boys would complain about their girlfriends forcing them to watch Twilight. I on the other hand, need not force my boyfriend as I do not watch these films. In fact, he is the one who forced me to watch this. Haha. It was only two years ago when he finally convinced me to watch Twilight, New Moon and Eclipse. I downloaded a copy and watched these films at home. At that time, I never knew why people loved it. Neither Edward nor Jacob was   as "hot" as people claim them to be. And the story line was plainly boring. In my personal opinion, it was far too cheesy.

Reviews about the first part of Breaking Dawn were good. Since Breaking Down is the last installment to this saga, I asked my boyfriend to watch it with me. Unfortunately, because I mocked him for being the girl in our relationship as he is more of a Twilight Fan than I am, he declined my invitation. So, we downloaded a copy of the movie and watched it at home.

The fifth and final installment to the Twilight Saga, however, was an exception. Being the last, we decided to watch Breaking Dawn Part 2 at the movies and I LOVED IT. 

There are two reasons as to why I actually enjoyed this film, the first being the fact that Bella is finally a stronger woman. (I hated the fact that she was so stupid in the other films); and second, the fact that it finally focused on other things other than the love story between the two characters. It was indeed a good ending to Twilight.

Unfortunately, as my boyfriend and I observed, there are things which have not been addressed, both in the novel and in the movie. Unlike the Harry Potter series, the novel and the movie failed to actually address significant details in the story, seeming like it merely resolved the love story of Edward and Bella.

Still, two thumbs up for Breaking Dawn Part 2! And yes, that comes from a non-twilight Fan. :)

Bikram Yoga Manila (Makati Branch)

I have been practicing yoga for the past two months. I practice Fitness First's Hot Flow Yoga in Alabang. As the sembreak approaches, I knew it was impossible to continue my practice in Alabang as my parents would force me to come home (I live in Pasig. I rent an apartment in Alabang because I study there). I began to worry about my yoga practice. Fitness First RSC (where I work out when I am not staying in Alabang) does not have its own Mind and Body Gym, hence, no Hot Flow for me. The nearest branches where Hot Flow Yoga is taught are MOA, Eastwood and Megamall. But alas, most of the classes are schedule in the evening. Lacking driving skills, I always pattern my workout schedule to that of my mom or dad's. Thus, I decided to enroll in Bikram Yoga classes. Thank God, one of the branches of Bikram Yoga Manila is located right next to Fitness First RSC.

I decided to avail their one week unlimited package for first timers (valued at Php 1,000). The girl on the phone said that I should arrive at least thirty minutes before the class starts because all first timers have to attend a mini orientation. I arrived an hour earlier. This gave me plenty of time to explore the studio, settle my bills, change into my workout clothes, etc. I also had time to relax while waiting for the instructor to come in.

Five minutes before the class, the instructor called me and this other guy outside for our mini orientation. She warned us that the studio will be heated to up to 38 degrees, which she said is not something to be afraid of as it would help us become more flexible. No biggie, I said to myself. I am used to this kind of heat. In fact, it is one of the reasons why I love Hot Yoga so much. I sweat so much that I feel like all the toxins inside my body are flushed out. In fact, 38 degrees is cooler to what we have in Alabang. There was even a point when the temperature in the Studio in Fitness First Alabang reached 44 degrees!

Anyway.

So the classes began. Bikram Yoga, as we all know consists of a set of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises.  Being relatively new to yoga, I found some of the poses difficult but then, some were fairly easy. As compared to the other first timer, I was able to complete the 90 minute session without having to "sit it out." (Hooray for me!).

It was generally a good experience. I love how the studio is spacious and homey at the same time. I love the fact that I was drenched in sweat with the 90 minute session ended. Unfortunately, my muscles were not as sore as when I finish my Hot Flow Yoga class. I soon discovered that there is indeed a difference between the two (let's talk about that in another blog post).

The sembreak ended too soon. Thus, I only used 2 sessions out of five. But it was worth it. I may practice Bikram again. But I will make it a point that I combine it with Flow Yoga (again, the difference will be discussed in a later blog post).

Two thumbs up, BYM! :) I'll see you again on my Christmas Break.

We, the 1%

They say that only 1% of the population is addicted to exercise.

I am part of that 1%. So is my 18 year old brother. And my mother.

I came across this article from the Ohio State University when I started researching about exercise addiction.

Exercise addiction has only recently begun to be studied. It is a compulsory need for some physical type of exercise. Addictions include commitment to jogging, running, jazzercize, stair-stepping, etc. Some people run on treadmills, spin, or stair-step for hours or participate in more than one exercise class per day. Like other addictions, people with exercise addiction have lives which revolve around their exercise. People feel controlled by their exercises and refuse to miss a session of their work out schedule. People will even exercise when they have physical injuries, thus exacerbating their wounds and creating further damage. Experts agree that 1% of the population suffer from exercise addiction.

Withdrawal is common among exercise addicts. They experience mood swings and depression when they must forgo their exercise routine

I know. Addiction to exercise is not something to be proud of. However, I try so hard to keep this commitment as I do not want to gain the unwanted pounds again.

I started exercising when I was seventeen years old. It was also then when I started to develop my addiction to exercise. Back then, I would spend at least three hours a day working out, never missing a single day. And so, I turned to this: (third one from the left)

But then law school happened. I never had the time to exercise because I devote my entire day to my assignments and my work, given the fact that I am a law student. Thus, I turned to this: (third from the left again)

Eleven  months after the last picture was taken, I lost approximately fifteen pounds, thanks to exercise. But unlike before, I regulate the time I spend at the gym. Nevertheless, I feel that I have developed an addiction to exercise.  All of the symptoms mentioned above are present. But then again, I feel that this addiction is actually something good and that there's nothing wrong about it. Yes Anj, that's what them addicts say. :D

We grow wiser with age.

I turned twenty four three weeks ago. I've wanted to blog something about it, focusing on some of the important things that I have learned. But alas, my birthday coincided with my favorite part of the semester: FINALS WEEK. Thus, I never had the time to blog about those things I meant to write about.

I have a lot of things on my mind back then. Perhaps, it is because of the fact that my brother and I discovered something disturbing, which for our own protection, I will not disclose. It was because of this that I truly appreciated where I am now. I may be working my ass of, have no time for myself, stress myself out but at least, I am on the right track.

I have forgotten everything that I intend to say. Maybe I can blog about it as soon as such thoughts return. But one thing's for sure. We grow wiser with age.

Independence comes at a price I can barely afford -- my extraordinarily expensive lifestyle

I've been trying to deny the fact that I have been experiencing financial difficulties over the past few months. Basically, it is because I am optimistic that work assignments would increase once a new semester starts in the US. But such optimism contributed to my financial status. With this in mind, I have been using my magic card wherever I go.

I do not usually shop using my credit card. For the past six years, I have been merely using it for new gadgets and for tuition fees. But sometime this year, I must have exceeded my limit that I charged so many things. Thus, I allocate about 80% of my income for the payment of my credit card bills.

I've never had money problems before. Perhaps, because of the fact that I have not been truly independent for the past years. This year, I started paying for rent and utilities on top of my phone bill and my extraordinarily expensive lifestyle. Indeed, independence comes with a price.

Back when I was younger, I have always wanted independence from my parents, protesting their strictness and their tendency to make decisions for me. Had I known it was this hard, I would have savored every minute of it. But at least, I can still ask them to bail me out -- as a loan though.

Quarter life crisis

I was insanely bored at this three hour law subject earlier, which by the way I did not prepare for, when I started thinking about life crises. Lately, I have been wondering why I have somehow lost the urge to study, work or even communicate with my friends. I begin to wonder if there is such a thing as a quarter life crisis. Once I reached home, I fired up the internet and I discovered that there is indeed such thing.

Symptom number 1: insecurity

Hell yeah. I'm one insecure bitch but I have gotten over the physical aspect. Well, at least in some respect. Nevertheless, I always feel that I am not good enough for anything. In fact, it is just recently that I have been questioning my performance in school. Unfortunately, there are also numerous times when I simply want validation.

Symptom number 2: avoiding friends

I have to admit that ever since I've begun this life as a working student, I rarely see my friends -- high school, college and other random ones -- but at least I've got friends in law school. Unfortunately, I have been avoiding them as well. I sincerely do not know why, it's just that I'd rather spend my weekends curled up in my bed.

Symptom number 3: doubts with your plans

I am a third year law student. I will graduate in two years time and I sincerely doubt my capacity to become a lawyer. Surely, I have spent numerous nights crying over law school stuff over the past few years, threatening to quit therefrom once a sign shows up that I am not meant for this. Somehow, a sign would always prove otherwise and I'll be back in no time. But I rarely get this inspiration and drive. The only thing that pushes me to school is the thought that Ive put in too much effort and money that I do not want to waste the same.

Symptom number 4: I hate my job

Of course I hate my job. Freelance writing is but a temporary job that I resort to to put myself through law school. But as I have mentioned, the mere idea of becoming a lawyer has become very vague. I am suddenly drifting back to that old life where I just want to make a living out of organizing parties. Don't worry though I am not throwing law school away.

Symptom number 5: living in the past

They say this is evident as regards looking back at old pictures. There are numerous times when I would look at old pictures, wishing that I'd be as thin or as determined as I was back then. Oh and yes, I mentioned that I am avoiding my friends right? Well, I recently find myself hanging out with my little cousins, enjoying their company as compared with people mu age. Don't get me wrong. I love my cousins. But something tells me that this is related with my desire to avoid dealing with other people socially.

Symptom number 6: desire to escape reality

I'd prolly be on the next flight out of Manila if I just have all the time and money in the world.

Symptom number 7: financial constraints

It is undeniable that I am broke. I use my credit card like crazy and I have unpaid debts. I spend more than what I earn.

It is only upon the completion of this entry that I discover how greatly I am affected by this. So for now, I apologize if I rarely show up at events or maintain communication with friends. It is just a phase.

On Feminism

I spent half of my life in a feminist school - St. Scho Manila. I never actually realized that it was highly feminist until my theology teacher in college mentioned it. I learned from my college professor that St. Scho gives paramount importance to women studies, women's rights, etc. Indeed, we were highly feminist. We were encouraged to spell "women" as "womyn" because women need not be connected with men all the time; there was a time when we referred to "history" as "herstory"; and we always celebrate women's month.

Aside from this, I also grew up in a family that is highly matriarchal. It is no doubt that the women in our family call the shots.

I began watching Sex and the City (the series) a few weeks ago. I have to say that because of my feminist background, I found myself enjoying that show as well as the random topics discussed therein. I remember my literature professor back in fourth year high school who said that men feared these series because focuses on the the story of four females who have decided to live like men.

One of my favorite topics discussed in the series is that which focused on the importance of career. In one episode, Miranda was complaining how men expect women to prioritize them over their careers while they refuse to do the same. In another episode, Miranda had to pretend that she is a flight attendant aside from telling the truth that she is a lawyer to score a date because she believes that men are scared of powerful women.

Do not get me wrong. I am no man hater and it is not that I distrust men in general. However, I am also a firm believer that times have changed and us women are not merely expected to adhere to the stereotypes that has been set for us by the society.

In a few years, I shall likewise be a female lawyer. I, like Miranda, Carrie and Samantha would likewise become that woman whom men would fear. But honestly though, isn't it time for change?

On Weddings and Engagements

They say that it is every girl's ultimate dream to marry. In fact, girls are expected to have this idea of how their wedding dress should look like, the people who will make up their entourage, their vows and how their wedding ceremony should go at a very young age. But despite the numerous weddings I have been to as a child, I never had an idea of how my wedding should look like. There was even a point when I became scared of the very idea of marriage as I have witnessed numerous marital problems when I was still a little kid. I also frowned upon the very idea of big and perfect weddings. Unfortunately, at a very young age, I was taught that a big wedding does not guarantee happy ever afters unlike those fairy tales that I have been very fond of.  I have to admit that there was a recent point in my life when I lost faith in love stories.

Things, however, changed. Perhaps, the factor that contributed to such change was the wedding of my cousin who was closest to me. We spent our teenage years, talking about boys and sharing our greatest secrets. I trusted her with everything back in college notwithstanding the fact that she was three years younger than me. A year ago, she got married.

I cannot describe what I felt during her wedding. Of course, I was very happy for her. On the other hand, I also cannot help but feel jealous -- after all, she was younger than me and she got married first. I grew fonder of weddings when I saw this video of a former office mate's wedding as well as when the news of my boyfriend's cousin's engagement broke out. Like every other girl, I cannot deny the fact that I also secretly wanted the same.

I am a sucker for the greatest love stories. I also love parties, dressing up and being the center of attention. Perhaps, these are the reasons why weddings appeal so much to me. Thus, after a close examination of myself, I know that I am not ready for the responsibilities that one must fulfill as a wife. Indeed, a wedding is one thing; marriage is another. So yes, it would probably take me five years (or more) before I settle down. At this point, all I can do is wish for someone in my immediate family to get engaged and attend their own wedding.

Perhaps the older sister of the cousin of mine who got married a year ago? (Hehe. If you are reading this, yes, I am looking forward to your wedding!) :)

Weight Loss Diaries

In an effort to shed more pounds -- primarily because of the fact that I have gained a pound due to my two week hiatus (habagat and midterm week combined) and because I haven't been losing weight since June (stuck at the so-called weight loss plateau), I have decided to revamp my workout routine.

I have been attending RPM Classes since April of this year. It helped me shed a lot of pounds -- considering how much I have gained last semester. Unfortunately, my weight remained the same since June notwithstanding the fact that I have attended classes regularly. Because of this, I have decided to try a highly recommended Group Exercise in Fitness First: Hot Flow Yoga. 

Fitness First's website describes Hot Flow Yoga as an exhilarating workout which builds physical coordination and mental focus which is practiced at a 37 degree heated room. I was so excited to try this exercise given the benefits associated therewith -- the number of calories that you can burn in a single session as well as its capacity to build lean muscle. I've also had positive experiences about Pilates and Body Balance (Another Group Exercise from Fitness First). However, I had my own reservations as well, the most important one being the fact that I do not sweat so much in Yoga class. I was also a bit reluctant to go because I've heard that the instructors here in Alabang are very strict. And because it has been a year since I have attended a Yoga class, I was afraid that I would not be able to execute the poses perfectly. Nevertheless, I have decided to try out with a fellow first timer.

I attended a very early class with the intention to continue on with my regular RPM class after. The yoga studio was not as hot as I expected it to be. Nevertheless, it was warmer than the usual, which is very good as the air conditioning units in Fitness First Alabang are very cold, making it more difficult to sweat.

The instructor started the class with a few reminders. He also asked if there are first timers in the class, to which my friend and I answered in the affirmative. I would not be able to provide an extensive review of the class as I have no clue about how the poses are called, how they are executed. I merely followed the instructions. One thing's for sure though, I have been intensely sweating ever since the first ten minutes of the session.

In sum, the workout was generally good. I plan to incorporate the same into my workout routine. Judging by how I felt (how every part of my body ached) a session of yoga coupled with a session of RPM, I can say that this combination would yield better results. After all, the instructor said that those who can do the poses perfectly have the nicest bodies. :)

Study all day every day. #Midterms

Of Debuts and Debutantes

Debutante: a young lady from an aristocratic or upper family class who has reached the age of maturity, and as a new adult, is introduced to society at a formal debut presentation.

It has been six years since I have attained the age of majority. As such, it has also been six years since I have attended a debut. Last month, however, I have been to two. My two baby cousins have finally turned eighteen. Time flies.

I never had a debut. 'Twas just a simple sit down dinner with my family and friends and my parents gave me cash. I never had what my two gorgeous cousins had. Why? Because of my STUPID College Ideologies.

You see, back then, my parents and I were already planning for my party. We have been through several locations, hoping to find the perfect place to the party and I have also been preparing the list of my entourage. However, it was also during this time when I was in my stupid rebellion stage (yes, people, we all go through that stage when all we want is independence from our parents).

My parents were very strict. They never allowed me to sleep over at friends' house. I cannot go to malls with friends. And of course, I cannot date. These did not change notwithstanding the fact that I am already in College. So back then, I thought, what was the use of having a debut when you cannot truly enjoy what eighteen truly means? I knew that even though I have already attained the age of majority, my parents would still keep me on their leash.

Yes, at that time, it was merely about independence. about freedom. I never really understood why my parents were acting in that manner. But as I look back, I really thank them for what they have done. Thus, I am filled with regret that I never had the chance to have my very own debutante ball.

So again, my baby cousins celebrated their eighteenth birthday last July. Mappy celebrated hers in Centerstage whilst Yana celebrated hers in Aberdeen Court. Mappy's was more of an intimate family gathering with lots of dancing, alcohol and singing.....

Mappy's eighteenth

...Yana's was more traditional with the eighteen roses, candles, treasures, toasts, etc.

Yana's eighteenth

I was so so envious of both parties. I secretly wish for a similar party. But it is prolly too late as I am already turning twenty four this October (sigh).

I love parties. I love organizing them. I love dressing up for them. I love being in the spotlight (Teehee). I want my own party. Maybe I should throw one for my 25th? After all, having lived for a quarter of a century is just as important as attaining the age of majority. Well, let's see. I have a year to plan. :) 

So yes, I blame my stupid college ideologies. I could have a had a party similar to theirs. But hey, it's not too late. While six years have already lapsed since I turned eighteen, there are still too many reasons to party.... 

like....

Turning twenty-five and Passing the bar. ♥

Thank you, Fabulous July

Memoirs of a Fabulous July. 

Hello again, law school.

One week into the first semester and my hands hurt like crazy. Back to reality.

All about Anj

I can't sleep. So I might as well work on this blogpost that I have been meaning to work on but never found time to do so. Time to share random stuff about me. Some, you may know. Some you may not. Some may be implied from the way I act. Enjoy reading♥

1. I am a third year law student -- but I am already in my fourth yearI am an irregular student.

Hence, well it is my technically my fourth year in law school, I am considered a third year law student. In Bedan parlance, third year completion. You see, the fourth year in law school is devoted mainly to review. As such, students, before proceeding to this level are expected to finish all subjects from the first year to the third year. I still have 18units of third year subjects. Why? Well, it is because I have distributed my second and third year subjects to my second, third and fourth years. This means that I will be a fourth year student on my fifth year. Gets? Haha. You see, I am a working student -- i pay for my own tuition and my ridiculously extravagant lifestyle. As such, I need to take fewer subjects to cope with my insane schedule. And to keep me sane, by the way. People in my school take pride in obtaining their degree after four years. That's the road not commonly taken. I may have had the chance to do the same. But circumstances call for such decision. While I may never take pride in this, I for surely, one day be proud that I put through myself in law school.

2. I am a workaholic

My friends rarely see me in the summer. No, I am not a home buddy. Never was, never will be. I just spend more time working becuase I have to satisfy my unlimited wants and needs. Like what I have said, I have a ridiculously extravagant lifestyle. Nevertheless, I tend to work for more than eight hours a day. I enjoy writing and I enjoy the fact that I am making money out of it. Hehe.

3. I am no home buddy

I absolutely hate being home. I don't like staying at home without nothing to do as this would surely drive me crazy. Thing is, I have a home based job. So I have this tendency to look for other places where I can work (like my mom's office) or if the need to stay home is inevitable, I make sure that I will never stop working as lazing around would really drive me crazy.

4. I hate being alone

I hate eating alone. I hate being home alone. I hate being alone. I am clingy and co-dependent. Period. But this doesn't mean that I couldn't stand up on my own. Life is more fun when someone is there to share it with you.

5. I am very conscious with my body -- to the point that other people perceive it as anorexia

It was in 2007 when I started exercising. In a span of two months, I lost 15 pounds. I also went through a no red meat diet during this time. It was addicting to the point that I was severely underweight back in 2009. I weighrd 100 lbs, which is not good for my height. My waistline was 23". Then came law school. At first, i gained gracefully. I got the good fats that I have previously eliminated. Unfortunately, it didn't stop that I reached my heaviest - 130lbs last March. Now, I am back to where I started. Desperately trying to lose weight through intense workouts and crash dieting. I admit, I feel fat whenever I binge and whenever I had a bad workout. Maybe I am anorexic. Hmmmm.

6. What I want, I get

No, not necessarily. But I have this desire to be always in control and to always win. I know, pathetic. Let's not get into that teehee.

7. Organizing parties is my first love

It is a hobby that I would gladly do if given the opportunity. This has been my role in my college block. To date, however, my mom's fiftieth birthday remains my most succesful event I have organized so far.

8. I have ridiculously straight hair

My high school and college friends know this. Yeah, my hair is ridiculously straight it looks like it has been rebonded. But unlike those who spend tons of money for rebonding, I never loved my hair. That's why, like them, I also spend tons of money - on perming. We humans are not contented with what we have.

9. I used to hate my nickname

Yeah, I used to cringe whenever someone calls me Anj. But one day I just decided to go by Anj. Now, I don't like being called Angela.

10. I am a bookworm

I love reading. I have been collecting books since I was a little kid. It continued on. Until, i had other hings to save for that I rarely buy books. But thanks to my ipad, I get to read again without spending too much. Then again, I have other books to prioritize -- my law books.

It seems like only yesterday when I, together with all the students in this country welcomed the summer vacation with open arms. And now? May is about to end. With June around the corner, one thing is, unfortunately undeniable: ITS TIME TO GO BACK TO SCHOOL. Hay. Time flies.

Another Pick-Me-Upper.

Call Me Maybe

(I absolutely LOVE this Video. It's way better than the original Music video.)

Impatient.

I graduated three years ago. Most of my college batch mates are already earning their own money, investing in real properties, buying their own car, travelling, and the list goes on.

As for me? I am still stuck in law school. Yes. I am working.. but 110% thereof goes to San Beda. I still have two more years. Well, three, including the bar examinations.

I have spent too much time in school. Impatient, yes I am.

Konti na lang, Anj. Konti  na lang.

 Life is not as bad as it may seem if you open your eyes to what is in front of you. 

My Bucket List

I was born to travel.

Thanks to my mom's travel benefits, we get to travel anywhere on board Northwest Airlines (now Delta Airlines) for free. But most of our travels focus solely on the United States and in other parts of Asia such as Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand. I was also fortunate enough to tag along mom's business trip to Australia and New Zealand. But while I'm thankful for my experiences, there are still so many places that I would like to visit.

Soon, I hope. Or right after passing the bar.

1. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia


Family and friends say there's nothing special about Malaysia. In fact, they even say that Ayala is way better than Kuala Lumpur. But what the hell, I just want a picture of the Petronas Tower.. the Petronas Tower and ME, of course. :)

2. Cambodia


Back in College, we used to watch that documentary about the Angkor Wat in almost every major subject. Since then, I have always wanted to see Cambodia and its famous temples. I never had the chance to. My brothers think it's boring. Boohoo.

3. China


I've been to Macau twice. I've been to Hong Kong twice. But I've never been to the Mainland. Having majored in AB Asian Studies, everything about the People's Republic of China fascinated me. Thus, I have always been begging my mom to take me there. We never had the chance to. You see, our parents base travel decisions on the interests of my brothers. Thus, we always go to the "child-friendly places" such as the U.S., Hong Kong, Singapore, etc. where there are lots of things to do for the little kids. Well, maybe when they're a bit older. An opportunity came a year ago. I was supposed to..... well, let's not go into that. :)

4. Seoul, Korea


I could not find a picture to put in this blog. Mainly because I am not quite familiar with the tourist destinations therein. Maybe this is also the reason why I lost to my brothers last April. You see, we were choosing between South Korea and Singapore when we learned that it would be quite impossible for us to travel to Vegas given the new requirements of Delta. I wanted to go to South Korea but my friends wanted to go to Singapore. Next time then. :)


5. Latin America (Mexico and Brazil, more specifically)

The culture in Latin America has always fascinated me. I absolutely LOVE Mexican food. And I have always admired the so-called Latina Beauty (no, I am not a Lesbian). My mom and I have always considered going here. Back in 2009, I asked this as a part of my graduation gift. It didn't push through. But at that point, I'm glad it didn't as that was the time when the AH1N1 virus gravely affected Mexico, and the whole world. I also asked mom to consider bringing us to Mexico and Brazil last summer. We never made it to the U.S. So, next time. :)

6. Europe (of course)


London

 Spain

Paris

Rome

Milan

Santorini

Need I even say why? Almost everyone dream of going to Europe. I initially asked for a European Trip as a graduation gift. Mom told me that my brothers would not be able join us. Being the good daughter that I am (hehe) and because travelling is more fun with them, I asked her to postpone the trip. The whole family went to Hawaii instead. No regrets. :)

Oh and as for Greece, my dad said that our family name, Meris, is actually Greek. :)




7. Dubai

My bucket list is not limited to the places that I have mentioned in this blog. For now, these are the first places that I'll visit, once given with the opportunity to do so. :)

Live. Laugh. Love

No regrets, just LOVE♥

Fifty, Fllirty and Thriving♥

Events planning has always been my first love.

Thus, organizing the surprise birthday party for my mom was one of my most important projects. I spent the last six months trying to find the perfect venue, organizing the program with my tito, contacting mommy's friends, trying to work on the budget dad gave me (and resisting temptation so that I would not use it all up for my personal consumption), buying clothes, buying props, choosing the menu, choreographing our dance numbers, practicing, and the list goes on. And thus, I am truly, truly happy that everyone had a great time. 'twas a fun and cuhrazy night (see the pictures if you want proof! Haha). Thank you, family and friends for making my mom happy.😊

I am not really a fan of superhero movies.... then came the Avengers and I loved it. 

Toned arms, legs and abs. #SummerGoals. 

Today's Pick-Me-Upper.

Cascada- San Francisco

How I ended up in law school.

Time flies. I can't believe that my seventh semester would start in a month's time. I should have been in my final year in law school had I not distributed my second and third year subjects to help me cope with my demanding schedule as a working student. No regrets though. At least I get to enjoy every minute of it (insert sarcasm here). But notwithstanding such delay, I am still happy with the fact that in two years (hopefully), my hard work will soon pay off. 

Becoming a lawyer someday wasn't really my plan. As a child, I was timid and shy. I don't excel in school. My only goal was to become famous (haha). A friend of dad even once said that she remember mom telling her that I wanted to become an artist (yes, an artista) when I grow up. 

My parents used my love for theater and music to their advantage. They have enrolled me in theater workshops to help boost my confidence. It helped me. A LOT. Soon enough, I was no longer that timid. I even directed various plays which featured my neighbors. 

As such, in my final year in High School, Mass Communication/Communication Arts became the obvious choice for my course in College. I was bad in Math. I was bad in Science. The only subjects I used to enjoy (and excel in) were History and Speech. But somehow, these courses were deleted from my college application forms. Thus, I ended up in Asian Studies. 

I chose Asian Studies for three reasons: (1) I love history, (2) I want to travel and (3) To facilitate easy entry into the University of Santo Tomas. I enjoyed most of my subjects, to some extent. But looking back, I realized that during those years, I got better grades in my subjects that are related to law than to those which I am majoring in. But at this point, I have given up my dreams of becoming an artist. Instead, my dreams were set on becoming a flight attendant so that I could travel more. You see, my mother used to work for Northwest Airlines. It was one of her benefits (and later on, part of her Early Retirement Package) that we get to ride NWA for free. These benefits were supposed to end as soon as I graduate from college. Since I have been travelling since I was a little girl, I never wanted such experience to end. Obviously, I wanted to become a flight attendant to enjoy the same privileges. It was also before my final year in college that mom's friend promised that she can get me a job with Star Cruises. 

Unfortunately, the job market back then was terrible -- most especially the Airline Industry. Thus, most of our professors advised that we pursue graduate studies to make the most of our time in the event that job hunting becomes futile. Given the fact that I have majored in Asian Studies in College, the obvious choice would be to pursue a Master's Degree therein. But alas, I find the subject very boring. 

Hence, career consultant advised that I take up law. Entrance examinations in UP Law were already closed that time. Knowing that I would also end up paying for my tuition, I never took examinations in Ateneo Law. So it was San Beda or nothing. I took my chances. Unprepared, I took the entrance exam with two friends, with no back up plan in case I fail the same. 

I passed. And thus marked the start of a long and arduous journey in law school. 

I never thought I'd end up here. I used to tell my family and friends that I want a job that would not entail the use of my brain. And yet, here I am, in law school. 

But despite and in spite of everything, I am happy to be here. Since 2009, and most especially today, I have decided to let go of my childhood dreams, focusing on what is truly important: to become a lawyer. 

The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return. 

Strangers, Again

Depressing yet meaningful. Let this video be a constant reminder that relationships need hard work.

Mantra for a Magical Year

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

So I have decided to open a new blog. Again.

Writing is my passion. I write for a living. And yet I never had the chance to write just for the sake of writing.

Welcome to my new blog. Hope this lasts.