A True Positive Mind

Push to the limit !

2009-08-03T23:59:00.001+02:00

I tried to convince my husband that I will not drive in Corsica. Since I had my licence I never get to drive here as it could be stressful….stressful, and have aggressive, crazier drivers than in Marseille. For some great reasons that roads are not only twisted but also very narrow. Add to that quite dark roads without no lights in the mountain side could be really exhausting and dangerous especially at night. Some part of the roads have lights only when you enter in the rural area. Along that winding roads will be in total darkness. When I mean dark just imagine yourself blind ! This is a not to exaggerate things.

Image from goolge.com

We went to Bastia to spend sometime at the beach since we’ve gone to rivers three times already during our first week in Corsica. Later that day we have to meet up with hubby’s childhood friend who’s apparently organizing a karaoke every Friday night. Obviously, we have stayed up late. My intuition serves me right since yesterday morning when we left the house that I will definitely drive during the night going back to the mountain. So husband was slowly preparing me mentally since then. Trying to ask me if I would feel comfortable to drive around. My answer was I will be stressed out but I will try my best that we get back home in one piece. Do I have a choice ?

At exactly 11 in the evening we decided to leave the karaoke party. Leaving the city of Bastia driving was still okay like most of the big cities as we’ve got a clear vision. Husband was still in good shape and capable to drive around the city. As expected he did not hesitate to ask me to drive for 15 minutes as all of a sudden fatigue has set in. He only asked me for 15 minutes of sleep for him to recover. That took me a special kind of angst when he stopped the car in the midst of darkness and gave me the wheel right just in time to drive in that narrow, dark and winding roads of Corsica. He was trying to tell me that it’s okay if I am afraid he’ll continue driving. I told him I’m not scared but I will admit I am starting to stress out !!! Of course, I would rather obliged myself rather than let him drive under fatigue which could be detrimental.

I took the wheel and drove. I was all by myself while everyone else is asleep. Husband was asleep in just a matter of seconds. The only sound that keeps me awake was the severe snoring of husband and son and the awful roads I have to take. As I drove on our way back it was constantly uphill, downhill, twisting, dark roads back to the mountain. I don’t simply care if the pet peeves find me slow. And because of a number of crazy drivers on the road even at night I kept my calm and tried to focus myself. It was difficult to drive particularly when approaching those blind curves or going towards the inside of a fairway with obstructed visibility as there were drivers who tried to tailgate me. Normally, the maximum speed is 70 km/hr but I was driving at the speed of 60 during that zigzag roads but one thing I am sure of that wild drivers were driving fast enough like a serious racer. Some parts is at 90 and 110 km/hr on the departmental highway is long and straight . I have used my head light (high beam mode) when I found myself driving alone and needed to changemy headlight to low beam mode in case there are cars coming from the opposite lane or for those who tried to double take when they got the chance. A forgotten 15 minutes has long gone !

My driving all went well! I have realized that driving in Corsica is not that bad at all it only demands constant attention and prudence twice more than I do. Finally, we’ve arrived the junction after 45 long minutes of driving in the dark going to the village itself. From the junction I've tried waking him up to pass the steering wheel and he did. He said thank you to me and complimented me because we have reached the carrefour successfully within the expected time-frame. He was expecting that it will took me more than that. From that moment, I immediately found myself relieved from everything. Husband drove for another 15 minutes and finally got home in good time, tuckered out and glad to be back. I want to kiss the ground and thank the heavens we got back all in one piece. ...

Can we be friends ?

2009-07-17T14:04:00.004+02:00

A lot of social network sites have been cropping up like mushrooms such as Friendster, Facebook, MySpace and so on. But I’ve been loyal to Friendster and Facebook as I have found a lot of my long lost friends. I admit it’s real fun. Had open myspace but it's inactive and do not have twitter.

I've been too lazy to blog, thus I enjoy surfing and try to find friends in Facebook. In one week, I saw 5 friends and we’re re-connected. We even exchanged mails to catch up. One day, I was chatting with a very good friend from college about reconnecting with friends. The thing is, it’s not only friends but suitors and Ex’s I was trying to locate…to be honest hahaha ! Well, I am just so curious to find out what have they become nothing more nothing less. So I told my friend that I found her ex. Her ex and us were good friends during University days. Well, it’s not my business to any further extent if they will invite each other. But my friend asked me if she’ll invite him so I told her why not? But she was hesitant because she does not want to create any problem between the couple. Goodness gracious, that was long time ago…15 years is not yesterday ! I would understand if they just broke up recently. Plus she did not even remember how they broke up. In addition to that, she’s into a long time relationship and her ex is married with one kid. I don’t see any problem….well for me in that matter. After all, there is life after break-ups so do not be a prisoner of that I advised her. Do not put malice in inviting him. She just asked my two cents and that’s what I think. Well both of them are grown ups individuals. Their objectives in life have changed. They’ve been together only for 2 years during their time (as far as I know) and clicked. Separated with no hurt feelings. I guess, becoming friends worth a shot thru social networks.

I don’t know, but personally past is past except if the break-ups were striking and painful. Then, forget about inviting your ex’s. It’s just a matter of determining what intensity of break-ups a person have had from the past. What do you think about this? Is it really possible for them to become friends? I am curious to know your sides !

Mimmmmmiiiii !!!

2009-07-10T19:33:00.007+02:00

Scene 1 : Stick it on!

One morning I went to lie down beside my daughter’s bed while she was still sleeping. I’ve waited for her to wake up so I can have my morning hug. After awhile she woke up and I’ve had my dose of hug. Suddenly, she pointed up to her bed and told me “Regarde Maman” with a smile on her face and yet sleepy. I looked up and saw 5 stickers pasted on the headboard. I was fuming mad as those are not stickers!!! Mimmmmiiiiiii (with a high pitch tone)! How many times did I tell you that these are not stickers! These are stamps! You know perfectly well what are these as I have already explained to both of you. I took them off immediately and fortunately they were slightly stick on to the headboard. So there was no punishment. I just explained her again not to touch or get anything from the drawers. Well, I have understood as the stamps are designed depicting Walt Disney design. Blame it on the Post office!

Scene 2 : Cut it off!

At that same day, later that afternoon. I saw my daughter trying to play something in our sofa. I got curious as she was really concentrated on something. I was in the dining table and ask her what was she doing. I went to see what it was….she was playing with our sofa back rest cover in which there is a fissure in it. And I was surprised because it was the only cover which has a bullet hole. Therefore, I asked both of them what happened. Sébastien looked at me and said “C’était la faute de Mimi” (It was Mimi’s fault). I looked Mimi and asked her how did it happen? Mayumi was avoiding me when I tried to look at her with my big eyes. My first thought was Mayumi, again? So I asked Sébastien, telling me that Mayumi cut it off with the scissors (the scissors I bought for them). Mimmmmiiiiii (the same banana)! I asked her why did she do that ? And so what will I expect from a 4 year old kid. Her excuses “Parce que j’en ai envie. Et puis je cru c’est un papier ! “ (It’s because I just want it. And then, I thought it was a paper). Nonsense !! Again, I need to repeat all over again especially to her that whenever they need to cut something they need to ask my permission. Telling them that it’s not prohibited because it’s part of learning but I need to be advised. I asked her to go to her room and stay there not until I asked her to come out. That was her punishment ! tsk tsk tsk !

Kids do the darndest things as we always say !

well merited

2009-06-27T14:04:00.001+02:00

Four days to go and summer break starts for us . It's not in my character to brag but I feel like bragging today! It's not a secret at all that parents like bragging about their children. Or probably, I am just proudly bursting with pride as a parent. Last week we have received our kid's class evaluation report and we were indeed happy of their performances at school. This year will be Sébastien's last year in kindergarten. Next school year will be the start of another challenge as he will enter CP (Cours Préparatoire) Preparatory course or the equivalent for Grade 1. First class of elementary school in French school system. The preparatory course is crucial for the students as it begins in a formal learning of reading. Of course, it may have started in big section of maternal level which is not mandatory in France. Despite this, the first non-mandatory schooling helped every students to prepare themselves to enter the Preparatory course which compulsary. I know things will be different and harder but we're there to give them the full support they need. While Mayumi has to stay in kindergarten and will be on the next level called Moyenne Section (Middle Section) still in the kindergarten stage.

Translation : écrire (writing), comprendre (understading or comprehension), lire-identifier (read-identify), Mathematiques (mathematics)

On Mother's Day !

2009-06-08T12:49:00.006+02:00

Aside from hugs.... kisses.....poems....emails.....e-cards.....etc and for the personalised gifts and cards I got from my lovely kids that made me ecstatically happy. This made my day.....received from a very good friend thanks a lot !!!! Happy mother's day to you too Hilda !

......And A Video !

A story that makes a lot of sense

2009-06-04T13:03:00.014+02:00

I have an inspiring story to share coming from a good friend (she’s like a big sister to me) whom I met when I arrived in France. She has been living here since 1980 and have had irregular status together with her 2 sisters when they first came to work in France. Her status has been regularised only after 10 years of working and hiding from the authority. Just imagine, 10 years of not seeing your family back home….undeniably complex.. Many times she has missed important birthdays and special occasions but she has compelling reasons for that. She has finished her degree back home. After graduation she worked with different companies but salary was not enough and she was not happy about it. Working abroad is a way out to earn a decent salary. And because they have encountered financial problems unfortunately, their business went bankrupt therefore she moved overseas together with her sisters in search of better opportunities. An option to grab with their eyes closed. It’s true that there is a big language barrier in France and the only job available is to work at home. Once she told me she’s happy earning a lot of money but money is not everything but it does provide help to our families. It’s all about losing almost what she has learned. The skills are the most important compensation and not the currency. It’s a matter of choosing where you want to be on the curve. That assessment to a great extent will have an impact to abilities to keep hold of one’s talent.

I told her there is nothing wrong with that as long as she’s happy about it and enjoying what she like. Besides, domestic is a decent job which pays well. But the thing is, she had many options available..…an opportunity to change its phase but overlooked them. I told her though it's never too late to be what you might have been. She told me a lot of stories of Filipinos working at home in France who are humble enough to accept the job as domestic helpers. They have a degree, name it ! Teachers, engineers, nurses, dentists, sales executives, computer graduates etc. Unfortunately, diplomas are not accepted in France and still need to undergo formations, trainings and get the equivalent of their diplomas and to speak French fluently. But still their dreams does not stop there.

Despite how she bitterly admitted she was wrong to have missed her chance somehow her sisters were right about moving somewhere else. She proudly shares, her sisters did not wait for that regularisation instead they have considered other countries to look for better opportunities. At the moment, her sisters are working in a hospital as a head nurse and the other one is working in a big supermarket as a Supervisor somewhere in Canada. They’re living the life of their dreams. Good salary, better standing and most of all the importance of continuous learning for growth rolled into one. Consequently, she has a lot of friends who started working as domestics and later on left France in search of enhanced opportunities in other English speaking countries. I told her that these are the people who’s dream is to change their fate and live the life they've always wanted. An established vision that leads to setting goals, long-standing goals. And the largely enthused is the one who most value the objectives.

Everybody has dreams….and she has so I told her to go for it ! She has plans and she wishes to put them into action very soon. Life isn't like a rail train -- there are no permanent trails leading towards the future. If you fail on the other side why not run and try the other side, where the grass is probably greener !

Panic in Boracay

2009-05-26T00:38:00.006+02:00

An hour late from Manila to Boracay. GREAT ! Okay, fine I am used to delayed flight anyway as long as we’ll wait under a good condition. The waiting is finally over…. we’re then off to Boracay. The escapade started to get hard...damn hard! Arriving Boracay….POWER FAILURE…twice GREATER….take note during our stay and until when…I don’t know! Poor tourists. We were accompanied directly to our hotel room to put our stuffs then off to find a restaurant because our uncontrollable rumbling stomach were complaining. A few steps away from hotel we have found an authentic Filipino restaurant. Good quality service, clean and easy on the pocket. The plates are in an ideal form, the original native plates and banana leaves to complete that extra ordinary service. Delayed flight and power failure, are unimportant as we have compensated ourselves with that scrumptious lunch we have had. Good thing, everything was arranged for us by our tourist agent from ticket to hotel pick up/transfer and breakfast included. On that part, it was excellently well arranged.

Went back to hotel and get some relaxing moments. Later that afternoon we have strolled around the vicinity to check what possible activities we can hold during our 4 days trip. Just beside the hotel we have found a great diving shop managed by a French-German origin. We have also asked from our hotel receptionist for other activities like island hopping and snorkeling. The hotel offered us P1,800k for a day of island hopping and the use of snorkeling gears for free. Island hopping which turned into a total nightmare as it was windy and had big waves. For those who knew me, the motion sickness is becoming a handicap everytime we travel. Imagine me taking 2 tablets of Bonamine which unfortunately did not take effect. So will spare you that disgusting details. The second day was spent in swimming, relaxation or just simply enjoying the white long stretched white sand beach.

I have heard a lot of good ratings and reviews from Locals and Foreigners about Boracay. I’ve been to a lot of beaches in Quezon, Batangas, Cebu and Bataan Provinces and it was my first time to visit Boracay. It’s true that Island of Boracay is a mixture of crystal blue clear water, sugary sand beaches and abundant landscapes which becomes an ideal sanctuary that will certainly captivate every tourist’s expectations. I won’t over describe Boracay anymore everything has been said and proven. The thing is, I was quite disappointed of my first experience in Boracay when I saw few plastic bottles and other stuffs floating on top of the water surface. If I can remember, before we boarded on the boat from Caticlan we have paid 50pesos for Environmental fee per person whereas kids are free. The amount was not that big though but I was probably overrating Boracay. Just to get some information, I then asked the caretaker of the hotel. He was honest to tell me those were caused by typhoons. Now, that is comprehensible. A lot comes from Caticlan where some people does not care about the environment which apparently affects the beautiful island of Boracay. I must admit that it will be difficult to clean the water of the island if there’s always this thug mentality of the people. It’s not impossible to clean but it’s just unfair for those who respect the environment ! We went farther until to that famous Grotto of the island to swim and snorkel. But to my surprise we were advised by snorklers not to go near the Grotto because there are a lot of broken bottles. I also blame the tourist for irresponsible behaviour that is. I was also a witness of this disorder when a woman who’s obviously living in that island (she was wearing a halfly-cut jeans and t-shirt while swimming telling to her child they need to go home) smoking in the midst of the beach. When she’s done smoking she just flicked the butt under our noses into the water . What can I do, I just threw her a killer glance and she just ignored me. That night, even we had have this impression we still appreciate the beauty of the island itself. The white sand beach, the hotel, the service, the people, the nature are irrefutably great. It’s just sickening to see some of them having primitive attitude and that there is more and more unconcerned of what pass off around them. They don’t obviously realised the chance of living to a some kind of paradisiacal island. Okay enough of my whingy, yet heart-felt rants.

Once and for all another journey that turned almost into a mishap. One night we were dining in one of the restaurants between Station 1 and 2. I am sure you can imagine the tourists everywhere. My son asked me to accompany him to the toilet which I did. My daughter asked me the same thing wherein I told her to wait patiently because Sébastien is still inside the toilet. I even asked her to play while waiting for her brother which she did. So before I went to check out on Sébastien she was beside our table playing with the sand and I asked hubby to look out on her. When I came back, asking hubby about Mayumi he told me that she followed me to the toilet . So I went back to check on her if she went to the same direction (still Sébastien inside the toilet). Asking if he saw her sister and he said no. A mother’s instinct is rarely wrong I don’t know why but I had this bad presentiment. I hastily went back to the table and told Bernard that Mayumi was not there. GREATER and GREATER…. Mayumi went in a different direction. We asked the waitresses and waiters if they saw our daughter in which they confirmed she was playing sand a while ago. But at that instant she was nowhere to found. We panicked as we decided to go in separate ways in search for Mayumi. I asked Sébastien to stay put and not to move until we get back. I saw my son crying because he was upset about losing his sister. I also asked the staff to keep their eyes on him. We were running mad in search for my daughter. I started to pray….pray really hard! It was not easy as it was crowded and it was quite dark. 5 minutes….. 10 minutes….. had passed no traces of Mayumi. My heart was thumping so hard I thought I was going to die. It scared us really bad thinking that someone took her because she was alone. Intrusive thoughts started to disturbed us. Hubby decided to positioned himself out from the crowded place. He went off near the seashore as it would definitely easier for him to see the people from there. Hélas, he saw Mayumi trying to find her way back to the restaurant with her stuffed toy tucked in her arms. Husband ran swiftly into her direction and when their eyes met he took Mayumi in his arms and securely embraced her. Husband nearly wept over her from the fear of losing her. As soon as I saw them with my hands still trembling it was like I just woke up from a nightmare. What was funny, Mayumi had no apprehension, no sense that something was amiss at all. As if she did not understand what was happening around her. She only understood after we have explained that we were looking for her thinking we almost lost her. Back to the restaurant, Sébastien wiped away his misty eyes as he gazed at her. He ran to meet us….rushing out to hug his sister tight and said “Tu m’a fait peur… Je ne veux pas te perdre parce que je t’aime ma souer ” ! (You scared me ... I do not want to lose you because I love you my sister). End of panic !

Exclusively for singles

2009-05-15T11:05:00.002+02:00

Festival d'amour aux Phillipines
envoyé par nocommenttv. - L'info video en direct.

I didn't know about this tradition until I read it from Le Monde. The street festival which is the Feast of San Roque dates back from 18th century, when the citizens of Valenzuela initially gave gratitude to their patron saint, San Roque. Women from different barangays (neighbourhoods) of the city come simultaneously to dance in a street procession which lasts day and night.

The legend says it that if a woman wishes to find a boyfriend or a husband she needs to join the street dance before her wish could be granted by San Roque. Thus, this Saint's Day serves to separate single women who are searching from those who are already taken. Apparently, much easier for men to select the woman of their dreams ! As anticipated then, the parade of dancing ladies is the source for grand animation and the ambiance is always joyful.

So singles out there men and women, foreigners and locals...visit Valenzuela Philippines and find your luck !

Spring framework

2009-04-27T12:26:00.001+02:00

We have many reasons to celebrate. First, it was Mayumi's 4th birthday though we haven't celebrated it yet as we were still in the Alps. I plan to do this when I come back from one week hiatus. Second, Sébastien already obtained his première étoile (first star) a month ago. Then we took the advantage of the time before the spring break end. We asked him if he wanted to pass the test to get the deuxième étoile (second star) and he was fine to take the challenge. They both took ski lessons for one week. The training started from 9 in the morning to 12 in the afternoon. The test will be held Friday morning of 24th of April. Those hot and gloomy afternoons spent in diverse activities like swimming, promenade while observing the marmots and hiking by the use of snow shoes/rackets.

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It seems so fast time has passed and the big day has come. Friday came and we are really happy to announce that Sébastien and Mayumi passed the test. Sébastien had the second star which is advance for his age. Third, Mayumi jumped from one level to another Poussin to Ourson (instead of Poussin to Piou-Piou) likewise advance for a beginner. That day has passed eventful since they got their medals .

For the meantime, enjoy the the pictures because we're off to London tonight !

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See you when we get back ! Have a happy Spring break to everyone !

The Trip : Part 4 Ending of Marinduque Travel

2009-04-21T22:47:00.005+02:00

After that little misadventure we went back to the Monastery safe and released ! We thought that a good shower will do to make us feel better. Afterwards, Manang called us telling that my Auntie is waiting for us in the parlour. It was an unforgettable encounter as it was the first time I have introduced my husband and kids after 15 years or more. Certainly, it was time to catch up for the lost time. Well, I won’t go into details for the catching up moments otherwise this post will take eternity. I’ll ask you to let your imagination run free this time. But I will tell you one thing, before when I was still an adolescent I remember visiting my Auntie in Monastery of St. Claire in Sariaya with the whole family and relatives during big occasions. It was completely different as we can only hear her speak and see her hand while talking behind a curtain. This time, their vision has changed…I was surprised…was happy to see her face at long last without barriers that separate us. After spending long hour’s chit chatting it’s time for her to return to their prayer session. As for us, it was dinner-to-bedtime.

Next day, there was a Sunday mass at 6 in the morning. Of course, I was the only one who was able to attend the mass. Though we have a Filipino priest in Marseille, attending mass in the Philippines is still something different. The ambiance is still what I am longing to feel again …..it is more solemn, peaceful and more young people!

After the mass, I have waited for my little family to wake up for morning breakfast. I can tell you the hospitality was definitely something we can be proud of. It’s truly a familiar quality of Filipinos that made us a stand out. Knowing that we are not the only people or country that could be warm and as friendly, but our approach is known to be extraordinary to foreigners. A true hospitality that comes naturally from the heart. How we maintain the image and will stay as the Archipelago of Smile.

This is a typical breakfast prepared but not as many as these during normal breakfast at home. After that superb and mouth watering breakfast we were received in the parlour by my Auntie including the rest of the sisters (mongha) or nuns with their superior. Auntie introduced them to us and the conversation went on smoothly. They were even teasing my kids. Like they want to hear them speak the French language and try to speak some Tagalog words like “Kumusta po?” Salamat po.” While interviewing my dear honey on how does he feel to be in the Philippines? Did he like the little ballade we did around Marinduque? Or how integrated I am in France? Etcetera. A beautiful and happy conversation with the nuns. It’s just so sad that we needed to leave before 12 noon to get ready for boarding back to Sariaya.

The parlour wherein they usually welcome their families and visitors.

That day was definitely unforgettable as we had the chance to go inside the parlour and embrace my auntie and the other sisters before leaving. Well, except for my husband who stayed outside the parlour and contented himself to thank them for their hospitality…obviously you know the reason. They have given us packed snacks and drinks for the travel. Some religious souvenirs which they themselves have made. Surely, the happiness remains imprinted as we embraced them to bid not goodbyes but see you next time. Even the rest of the nuns were happy to have been visited and connect to the world.

Off to Balanacan Port we have kept wonderful memories and will surely visit her again on our next vacation. This time going back to Sariaya will be different as we took a bigger ship. Although it took us 5 hours but then it was safer to cross the island.

Arriving Tayabas, there was my family impatiently waiting for us and the stories that goes along.

More on my next posts....Boracay, Palawan and Tagaytay trip.

The trip Part 3 : Marinduque Province

2009-04-17T12:08:00.000+02:00

It’s time to continue to post about our last year’s trip in the Philippines. I’ve talked about them arriving NAIA and spending some time in Manila. And I blame Makis for making a brilliant post about Philippine gastronomy . Now, I am greedy hankering after about foods and everything about Philippines. In between my “golden week” spent in my province of Quezon we headed to the Province of Marinduque to see my Tita Lucy (an Auntie from my mother side) who is a nun and whom I haven’t seen for maybe 15 years or more. We were accompanied by a driver to go to Port of Tayabas, Lucena City. Going to Marinduque could be reached by many ports from Lucena City, on to the Mainland. Balanacan Port, Cawit Port or Buyabod Port are the ports of call for Marinduque Island . We took a small ferry in crossing the island and will take us 4 hours to arrive to Balanacan.

When husband saw the ferry he was extremely worried but I never even hinted anything as it was not shown in his face. Probably, to avoid scary thoughts I just knew it when we arrive to Balanacan Port safe and sound. Basically, the ferry is really small and could probably cater 40 passengers. It was not air-conditioned only electric fans which are not actually a big deal for us. And even if the spaces between chairs and backrest are narrow which are obviously made for Filipino sizes we were okay and have never heard my kids complain. While husband is laughing because he does not fit at all. But what bothered husband were the close windows, no way to escape in cases of emergency. Although there are life saver jackets but still it could be detrimental to passengers. The only escape would be the main entrance of the ferry which is undeniably daunting ! We were supposed to take the big ship but arriving to the Port we were just in time for the small ferry ready to cross the island. Plus, we didn’t want to waste the opportunity to leave earlier than planned. With tickets in-hand, we quickly boarded to the small ferry. Although ferry serves a wide variety of choices of pack lunch like rice with chicken, rice adobo etc. we have kept ourselves busy eating sandwiches Mom prepared for the travel, skyflakes and boy bawang, my kids love eating those a lot.

At 3 o’clock we landed to Balanacan and needed to ride jeepneys, tricycles or some sort of local taxi like L-300 van going to the Monastery of St. Claire We were offered for a van because we have kids but opted for a tricycle. Don’t blame me for that, kids insisted for it. They find it completely extraordinary, which is true as this is an ingenious creation of the Filipino people. It was a 45 minutes tricycle ride along the curving roads from Balanacan Port going to the Monastery. The view was just remarkable….everything is just green! Finally, we arrived to the Monastery and welcomed by the caretaker Mang Pido asking us how much we paid for the tricycle. I told him we paid for P200. He wasn’t happy about it saying that normal tariff would be P150. I told him it’s okay I don’t mind to pay P50 more just consider is as a tip. But I do understand his reaction because he wants driver to be honest and avoid taking advantage of tourists. If there is tip given it would be the passenger who will decide and not by adding some charges on the normal tariff.

He took our bag and brought us to an air-conditioned room with 2 queen size bed. We were like in a 3 star hotel, kinda surprising. I have never seen Monastery like this. We headed down to the parlour (as they call it) to wait for my Auntie. Finally, she went out smiling. Excited, surprise....we were both going through mix emotions. We have talked around 15 minutes to welcome us for the time being. She just excused herself from the prayer session and will get back after talking to us. Proposed us to rest a little bit but we would rather explore the island.

The other caretaker Manang accompanied us during our short escapade. A very young tricycle driver who speaks a little bit of French with us. Driving their own tricycle during weekends but an Engineer student during weekdays.

Our service to go around the island.

This is the Boac, Marinduque Cathedral.

After that small tour from the Cathedral this time we were way off down the beach. Do not be surprised as we did not end up going a white beach. We just would like the kids to swim since the weather was quite hot and humid. We asked them to stay near the seashore and do not go too far because at any given moment it would soon be a high tide.

Now, this is quite terrifying part of this little promenade on the beach. An adventure almost became a misadventure. We were sitting around 50 meters away from kids. I just asked husband to take a look of the pictures taken. In that split of seconds, we saw Mayumi gasping...spluttering.....and apparently in trouble. While Sébastien tried to calm her and reached her hand as she gasped for air. Husband sounded like a tornado to me as he ran to off swiftly to their rescue. Obviously, Mayumi wanted to follow her brother who went just a little bit farther and since she's smaller she almost drowned. Whew, that was close!

The story does not end here. More on my next post

Ma racine de solitude

2009-04-10T14:09:00.004+02:00

Je n’oublie pas ces jours
Il est temps de méditer
Une pause éphémère
Au milieu de brouillard
Purifiez mon âme
Changez mon regard
Seras Vous me pardonner ?
Malgré le ciel sombre
Une simple bougie et une prière.
Le monde s'éclaire.

Aujourd'hui c'est Pâques,
Quelle que soit la religion
Pratiquant ou non pratiquant,
Fêtons parmi nous,
Une occasion unique
Rendrez gloire a notre Seigneur !

Joyeuses Pâques à vous tous !

Translation :

I don't forget these days
It is time to meditate
A short break
In the midst of mist
Cleanse my soul
Change my gaze
Will you forgive me?
Despite the dark sky
A single candle and a prayer.
The world brightens up.

Today is Easter
Whatever religion
Practicing or non practicing
Celebrate with us
A unique occasion
To glorify our Lord !

Happy Easter to everyone !

Reality Check : SIMPLIFY

2009-04-05T19:14:00.008+02:00

Life is not complex, we are complex ! I believe that life is not really difficult but it’s rather us who make things complicated. It’s either you choose between good or bad, straight or not. We have the tendency to presume things. Long enough and too ahead of the actual life condition. Most of us tell one thing, yet does another thing and most of the time contradictory of own decision.

I was 28 when I had to make the biggest decision in my life. I had to choose between my family, keep my job, my friends and everything that concerns me and the matters of the heart. I have chosen the call of my heart even if it means that I would live very far from family, being jobless, living abroad and not being able to speak the language. In short, was an impasse and no turning back. I admit, it was not an easy choice because I am not certain what will be my life in the other side of the world. And I am sure I am not the only one in this floating ship. But at least, I made a decision. I never doubt myself or the man I love. I guess, I strived for simplicity so as to overcome life’s hurdles. At present, I have a fine life because I confronted the fear and assumed my decision. I choose what I wanted for myself without asking too many questions. Stop the what ifs, the I should have done this phrases, otherwise the worst thing that will happen to me is to live unhappily. I have focused my entire self on what I want to do, what I want to become in my life and not on welcoming the fear of not doing something….sure it takes a lot of guts.

I guess, things are not really complicated especially in choosing what you want and what you need for in life. It could be complicated if you have doubts from the choices you make then it will apparently become a problem. At some point in time, I also learned a few exceptions that there are also things or situations beyond our control and we cannot just choose. The only thing we can do is wait for that chance to come. But if you have a clear choice without getting into difficult condition ….then jump and do not falter.

It is wiser to settle your satisfaction based on your life’s experiences. Only you, who knows what will ultimately make you satisfied. So then, next time you’re faced with a big decision in life, do not search further because you know exactly what you want. Provided that you never allow a decision cost you something special. Screw material things – those are secondary and it’s not you. If a decision costs you material things, jobs, positions or whatever, you’ll get over it. Nevertheless, if it costs you someone that you love or would like to have, get ready to make a cut out of big “L” and tape it to your forehead…. L for loser ! Waking up one day telling to yourself why are you so darn stupid to let that chance but you blew it. Or regretting that should have done but you did missed out on a great opportunity. That is surely pathetic !

I probably took the standard deviations in my life in a lost forest but I chose the one less complicated and that has made all the difference .

La sagesse de 6 ans

2009-03-29T00:32:00.006+01:00

A la télé, Il y a une semaine en regardant les infos nous avons appri l'enlèvement d'un enfant de 3 ans et démi dans le Sud de la France à Arles. Elle s'appelle Élise avec une mère Russe et un père Français depuis Vendredi dernièr et untrouvable jusqu'a aujourd'hui. Visiblement, l'origin de cette enlèvement est la mère Russe car le couple se déchirent pour la garde de l'enfant. La fillette a été enlevée par deux hommes et une femme alors qu'elle revenait de l'école avec son père qui a été violemment agressé.

C'est vrai que c'est souvent le cas de rupture du mariage et ce n'est pas facile pour tout le monde. Bref, mon mari juste pour donner un exemple m'a dit "Voila, les circonstances pour les couples qui se séparent. Je pense que c'est qui se passera si un jour on doit se separer" ! Mais attention, çela ne signifie pas qu'on le pensent aussi fortement. C'est juste une triste verité dans la vie. Donc, ce genre d'échange n'est pas hors norme malgré tout.

Sans savoir, que notre fils (il était à table entrain de diner) avec toutes ses petites oreilles sont à l'ecoute et prendre les choses trop au sérieux . Notre fils ainé nous a dit " Moi, je ne veux pas que vous vous séparez.....parce que je vous aime tous les deux! " C'était exactement ces mots qui nous a tellement scotché! Pourquoi ? Car il ne choisit pas entre nous. Il peut aussi dire que si nous nous séparions, il vivrai soit avec Papa ou Maman ni personne. Et là, je le vois sur son visage creusé par l'inquiétude et la peur en nous regardant dans les yeux. Ensuite, nous avons l' assuré que cela ne se produira pas. Tout en expliqant que le mariage est beau si les deux partenaires doivent travailler dur pour éviter l'autosatisfaction. Que parfois, la vie de mariage a beaucoup de complications. Il y a des problèmes mais il faut regler une façon efficace au fur et à mesure plutôt que de les laisser s'accumuler, d'attaquer l'autre ou de vouloir avoir le dessus à tout prix.

Nous avons été tous les deux profondément touchés par ces message lucides et sans la moindre hésitation. Une petites phrases pleines de sagesse !

Translation:

On TV, a week ago while watching the news we have learned the abduction of a child 3 and a half years in the South of France in Arles. Her name is Elise with a Russian mother and a French father since last Friday and untraceable until today. Clearly, the origin of this kidnapping is the mother because the Russian-French couple are into separation and after for child's custody. The girl was abducted by two men and one woman as she returned from school with his father who was violently assaulted.

It is true that it is often the case of marriage breakdown and it is not easy for everyone. In short, my husband just to give an example said, 'Look, the circumstances of couples who separate. I think this will happen if one day we are going to separate! But beware, this does not mean we are strongly thinking of it. It's just a sad truth in life. So, this kind of exchange is not unusual after all.

Without knowing that our son (having dinner) with all his little ears listening and taking things too things seriously. Our elder son said "I do not want you to be separated ..... because I love you both! " It was exactly his words that stuck us! Why ? Because he did not choose between us. He may also say that if we separate, he will live with either Mom or Dad or anyone. And then, I see his furrowed face caused by the anxiety and fear as we look in his eyes. After we have assured him that this will not happen. While explaining that marriage is great if both partners will work hard to avoid complacency. That sometimes married life has many complications. There are problems but we must settle effectively rather than leaving them to accumulate, to attack the other or want to gain the battle at all costs.

We were both deeply touched by his clear message and without any hesitation. A small phrases of wisdom!

Learn to identify

2009-03-22T17:34:00.011+01:00

The whole world got scared of made in China products "black hearted goods". I think it is necessary to differentiate which one is made in Taiwan or China and vice-versa. The first 3 digits of barcode 690.691.692 is made in CHINA and 471 is Made in Taiwan.

It is our right to know simple things when buying to be alerted. The government and related departments never educate the consumer public.

00-13: USA & Canada
20-29: In-Store Functions
30-37: France
40-44: Germany
45: Japan (also 49)
46: Russian Federation
471: Taiwan
474: Estonia
475: Latvia
477: Lithuania
479: Sri Lanka
480: Philippines
482: Ukraine
484: Moldova
485: Armenia
486: Georgia
487: Kazakhstan
489: Hongkong
49: Japan (JAN-13)
50: United Kingdom
520: Greece
528: Lebanon
529: Cyprus
531: Macedonia
535: Malta
539: Ireland
54: Belgium & Luxembourg
560: Portugal
569: Iceland
57: Denmark
590: Poland
594: Romania
599: Hungary
600 & 601: South Africa
609: Mauritius
611: Morocco
613: Algeria
619: Tunisia
622: Egypt
625: Jordan
626: Iran
64: Finland
690-692: China
70: Norway
729: Israel
73: Sweden
740: Guatemala
741: El Salvador
742: Honduras
743: Nicaragua
744: Costa Rica
746: Dominican Republic
750: Mexico
759: Venezuela
76: Switzerland
770: Colombia
773: Uruguay
775: Peru
777: Bolivia
779: Argentina
780: Chile
784: Paraguay
785: Peru
786: Ecuador
789: Brazil
80 - 83: Italy
84: Spain
850: Cuba
858: Slovakia
859: Czech Republic
860: Yugoslavia
869: Turkey
87: Netherlands
880: South Korea
885: Thailand
888: Singapore
890: India
893: Vietnam
899: Indonesia
90 & 91: Austria
93: Australia
94: New Zealand
955: Malaysia

This may be petty but it will help you to be aware. China milk poisoning incident and white rabbit candy (found traces of Melamine ) made everyone afraid to look at the daily news event. Everyday, the reports may vary. No one can clearly tell us what to eat and not. Just let us consider this and please remember the following bar codes. Just to be fair and honest, I still buy China products but I try to be vigilant in choosing them.

The BUZZ

2009-03-16T19:21:00.007+01:00

This an inkling on daily life and social encounter as a mother or a half stranger in France. I know this or I may sound a raging lunatic, irritated, pissed off whatever you call it. But it’s been 4 years my son is going to the same school and nothing has changed. What I mean by change? I always see this group of mothers who assemble together every morning....talking non-stop! I know, it’s not my business and I should mind my own. But my concern and probably partially my business is that why not do their early rumouring session and park their cars somewhere else? This is to give way to other parents who are in a haste not to be late at work after bringing their kids to school. Since narrow streets in Marseille are common these mothers make parking more complex. Parents are often oblige to park their cars further away and walk their kids until school premises. If only this crowd will disappear parking just in front of the school will help parents to avoid cramming and wasting time turning around just to look for a parking lot. Many parents let their children get off the car right in front of the gate and let them get inside the school to gain time.

Not only that, more often they stare at you from head to toe and I find this very complex situation with a lot of tension in each other as we exchange glances. Stare that’s isn’t normal. I don’t know if it’s intimidation as they cast envious glances. It could be normal for them but they are not for me. I don’t know why but it’s very an uncomfortable feeling. I’m not being paranoid but I have the notion they’re talking about me or someone else. Here are some reality about human beings which may surprise you. Staring at those who are different is an ordinary response for many of us. If someone is extremely tall we stare at them. If someone is wearing a plunging neckline or provocative clothes we stare at them. If someone has a handicap we can’t help looking at them. We human beings are snooping individuals. We gaze at stuffs which intrigue us. And only the curious minds have something to discover. If the object of our interest is another individual indeed they are different to us. And because I am Asian, I am certain that I am one of the bits and pieces of their interest. I remember a Mom (African Black) who sends her 3 children to the same school. At first, we just say Bonjour to each other. Since we come across everyday we became sort of friends. She confided to me, that she’s not happy about how these people look at her just because she has a handicap child. And this and that, I won’t go into the details as it’s exasperating .

Oh Man, do I sound I extremely dislike them? Yes, I don’t like them when they block the way to the entrance just to check out the latest gossip. I hate them when they stay around the area while others are having a hard time to look for a parking space. I hate them when they stare at people and envision yourself in a surroundings where there is a continuous sound of vibration— bbbzzzz! It’s pissing me off ! Manners such those can be avoided and is considered boorish and infuriating. Do they really have a life ? The gate is already close and still session is not close. They seem to have nothing better.

Exercise or Operation ?

2009-03-10T16:35:00.002+01:00

Frustration is an emotional reaction to situation where one is hindered from arriving at a personal objective. I am speaking about this because of self-disappointment. There’s something else that I’m incredibly passionate about and I am capable but not enough able to accomplish for the moment. Certainly, we all have our strong interests. We all have passion in life…work, kids, hobbies, movies, music, collectors item and many more. Mine is sports ! Occasionally, my desire to do something extraordinary in an extraordinary day is not just right., then comes frustration.

We went to Alps last week and sadly, there were no surf monitors available because it was during peak season. Then, I tried snowboarding by myself and I can tell you I have managed to do it well. The problem is my cross ligament injury. When I tried to get up it was then I felt my unstable knee. Before, it was only my left knee which is feeble. Now the right knee goes as well. And so I feel really disappointed because I can’t finally do snowboarding. It says that “Better snowboarding techniques come from mental and physical training”. I have the mental but I don’t have the physical power. I had have rigid trainings during my younger years plus was also pushing myself to the limits and give the best in me. After college, I got a job and needed to work thus, I cannot come to trainings regularly until I finally stopped. I reintegrated myself back to favourite sports. When I arrived in France, I was searching for a club to finally re-do the sports after 4 years of inactivity. I was mentally ready but not physically capable and it was there I had my cross ligament injury. I saw few doctors already in the past. Some advised me to operate but I did not entirely agreed as it could become worse after the surgery. Added to this, after surgery I needed to do re-education or physical therapy for 6 months or more. If I will undergo operation, who will oversee things at home? Driving my kids at school and do all the chores? Well, it’s not that complicated I can hire someone to do this for me. What I am afraid is the aftermath of the operation. What if things will turn into catastrophe?

A lot (friends who had have the same problem and Doctors of Kinesitherapy) recommend me to exercise which will lead to increase strength in subsequent work-outs and ultimately greater muscle gains. I agree more, great method and worry free. I just hope that I will regain my physical stability. I hope things will be over and I can enjoy things the way I want them. Did you have the same problem? I will be more happy to hear your opinion.

2T's = tips and tag

2009-02-20T09:35:00.007+01:00

It’s a known fact that milk and dairy products are good for building bones. But didn’t you know that limestone (Calcaire in French) which comes from tap water is the best for building bones? As I was watching E=M6 (it’s a French program mainly directed towards research, new technology and hard sciences). Limestone is rich in calcium carbonate. We know of more recent years that calcium content in water is considered almost as well as that contained in milk and dairy product. So if your water is rich in limestone, is good for your bones and helps prevent Osteoporosis. Check the water supply in your place if it is not rich in other elements are less good for health (nitrates, lead pipes etc.) and if it’s hygienic.

Cutting without crying…..Monster Onions! Yes, I speak about onions that we use for cooking. The matter has reached a juncture, when cutting onion turn out to be a constant nightmare. We always cry in cutting them.

“When an onion is cut, the ruptured onion cells release enzymes which break down nearby sulphur compounds into oxides and acids. These re-form to make a gas. This gas moves into your eyes and then mixes with your tears to form sulphuric acid.–from Alton Brown in a Good Eats Moment”

You could end up cutting onions like her ! Images from here , thanks !

There are no realistic way to resolve this but we can drastically diminish the crying moments. So to avoid tears, peel onions under running water. You can also place them in the freezer a few minutes before you peel them or dip them in a few very hot water. Or trim off the ends, put onions on kitchen paper in the base of the oven and microwave on High mode for a minute. You will be able to get rid of the skin more easily and won't cry when you chop them up.

25 Random Things

Rules: Once you’ve been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, choose 25 people to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it’s because I want to know more about you!

Thanks for this tag Mahalia and Nao but I won't tag anyone but if you want to tell more about yourself please feel free !

1. Blogging is my therapy, it’s not that I am insane I just like writing them down to express, to rant, to laugh, to cry and learn. Silly, dilly what kind of fool am i ?

2.I love reading books to my kids before they go to bed. Now that my kids are into school they correct my pronunciation thus I learn French at the same time.

3. Love washing our cars.

4. Love doing outdoors sports even in the cold winter!

5. I love practicing my French writing when I write my blog.

6. I am a fan of martial arts since I was a kid.

7. Since I am a stay at home Mom I am very enthusiasts in surfing the net for employment submit my CV, we’ll never know.

8. I hate pressing of all the household chores.

9. Love chatting with family and friends.

10. I love dancing.

11. I know I am not a good cook, I don’t have a magic touch but I like inviting friends over for lunch, dinner or organizing party ! IRONIC and I love to experiment in the kitchen. Terrified ???

12. I am not good in tennis and golf is boring me.

13. My favourite colour is blue, well many says it’s the colour for men but I don’t mind I am not very feminine either.

13. Instead of drinking Coke I replace them with sparkling water, Badoit or Perrier is perfect.

14. I miss the Philippine Mangoes !!!

15. Addicted to Chippy and Boy Bawang !

16. I am not an artist myself but I dream to be one.

17. I am persuaded that I will learn to snowboard and I am working on it....patiently!!!

18. I was once in the newspaper for winning the Regional TKD sports competition held in Zamboanga.

19. I am a positive thinker.

20. Have motion sickness and I cannot live without my Nautamine.

21. I hate smoking and gambling !

22. Hoping that customer service in France will improve !

23. I am not a computer geek but I'm figuring things out by myself.

24. I love my province Sariaya Quezon.

25. I want to travel around the world if the budget permits of course.

26. I love to learn another language, either Spanish, Italian or German (this is a give away)

Une phase ou une excuse ?

2009-02-13T13:43:00.010+01:00

L’autre fois mon mari a eu une conversation très intéressants sur un sujet a propos des ados. Donc, je sais que c’est un peu tôt de parler de la vie des adolescents car nos enfants sont encore petits. Mais quand je vois où nous vivons ça serra pénible comment vaincre l’appréhension, stress et une certaine peur quand cette période de transitions arrive. Nous connaîtrons plus certainement des moments difficiles comme tous les parents. En parlant de ça nous serons sans doute voudrions avoir les moyens plus sûr et d’être rationnel pour s’améliorer les relations avec nos enfants.L'adolescence est une phase de conversion, de transformation corporel et intellectuelle parmi la vie des jeunes enfants pour s'apprête à mener une vie d'adulte. Quelquefois, cette intervalle se passe avec des cas de mésintelligence avec le milieu ou des moments de rébellion de l'enfant, qui ont la difficulté d’accepter les changements ou qui peuvent contrarier leurs envies. Généralement, on identifié cela la "crise de l'adolescence" !

Je ne suis pas d’accord si la crise s’accompagne chez des ados de l’ignorer ses parents, d’être agressive vers son entourage, qui ne respecte pas certaines règles, comportement de défi, l’objection aux parents….bref dépasser les bornes sans cesse dans tous les sens ! Je suis passée par l’adolescence et j’ai aussi tout essayé à boire de l'alcool et à fumer (sauf la drogue) comme approximativement tous les ados, mais heureusement je n’ai pas vraiment accrochée. La seule explication j’étais motivée de tenter à fumer c’est par la curiosité. Savoir pourquoi ça fonctionne à merveille chez les jeunes. Je n’ai pas encore trouvé la réponse qui me convient. Quel est l’intérêt de fumer? Personnellement je ne vois que du négatif :
1. C'est cher
2. Nous mourons plus jeune
3. Nous mettons en danger les personnes que nous entourent a cause du tabagisme passif
4. On est souvent malade
5. Fumer ça pollue la terre

Parlons l’alcool, j’ai pas mal sortie dans ma vie de l’adolescent mais j’étais la seule personne qui ne bois pas. Je déteste la bières, déjà l’odeur me dégoûte. Les autres boivent mais avec modération ou plutôt des cocktails. J’ai appris à boire du vin avec le temps pour les grandes occasions ou quand nous avons des invités ou que nous sommes invités seulement en France. Et puis quand on boivent du vin c’est bien pour la santé avec modération bien sûr ! Je ne parle pas de la drogue car vous connaissez déjà les réponses. Malheureusement, ceux qui disent "Il faut que je fasse le même comme mes copains sinon je ne serai pas vraiment à la hauteur". Franchement, j’ai constaté que les ados sont cruels et superficiel. Ils ont incapable d'être soi même. Lorsque on est dissemblable on est seul et exclu. C'est la sombre réalité ! Quoique, certains vont connaître une adolescence fracassant et d’autres vont apparaître inaperçus.

La question se pose est-ce que la crise d’adolescence est-elle un passage exigé ? Ou c’est juste une excuse pour tous ceux qui veulent faire comme disent les ado pour être à la hauteur ? Est-ce que les critères retenus doivent être acceptés par l’ensemble pour être bien accueillir dans un groupement ?

Je ne jugerais personne dans cette histoire mais j’essaye de comprends. Comme le dit en Anglais ‘Been there, done that’. En fait, je n'ai pas eu cette impression d'avoir peut être un adolescent très extraordinaire !

As always the translation is here. Sorry there are some wrong words translated but it'll help you understand the post, thank you !

the Amazing R !

2009-02-06T21:03:00.005+01:00

The latest Filipino singing sensation in You Tube. Behind the name Rin (Erin Paula is 20 years) a pure Filipino. Rox or Roxanne, 21, half-pinoy half-white. They both live in California, USA. Guys look at them, they enjoy singing in the bathroom !! They should make a career ! You can check them out here. And they made it to Ellen Degeneres show!

The Red Carpet Eyeball

2009-02-04T19:14:00.004+01:00

This is a good way to start off my February post. I started blogging 2005 and since then I have already met some bloggers that I became good friends with. Others remain a virtual friends and I am glad that they became a part of my activities on a daily basis. Sometimes we receive comments from spam’s, anonymous or just from a simple lurkers. I am sure you will agree that we always have visitors that doesn’t comment but they always visit us and I would say even non-bloggers. I remember when I blog about the panorama of my beloved province and I received a comment under the name of Joanne who lives in California. Since then, she often visits my site and I am flattered even though I may not be a good writer. Thru my blog she also pays visit among other links I have. It was really a good start of a nice encounter. From then on, we started exchanging emails and chat from time to time whenever we can. Since we have some things in common, a French husband, the same province, same age but not the same height. You know, chatting with her seems I have found my long lost friend from high school. I then encouraged her to blog and good thing she was open about the idea. Now, you can check the late blogger in her. Thus, the next step after that online chatting we plan of meeting up when they visit France. Their European tour was supposed to be October last year but because of some changes they’ve push through last week of January this year. Finally, this year the moment of truth drew closer. The long-term EB program took place last Thursday. Joanne told me that they will roughly stay 24 hours at St. Raphael since her in-laws has a flat there. instead of going to a hotel room. I just hope I didn’t create inconveniences to them coming from Switzerland going all the way to the South of France just because of an EB. I wanted to invite them over my place but I didn’t want to bother them since traveling from US to Europe is pretty tiring.

A stroke of luck, I was planning to visit Makis at her place which is 200 kms (1 ½ hour drive) from Marseilles. I emailed Joanne if it’s okay if I tag Makis along with me and she was twice excited to meet up with us. A number of good reasons to get thrilled : meeting up with Joanne and Xavier and driving going to Makis’s place as it will be my first time to drive that far ALONE without the kids ! And so driving going to Makis’s went just fine although the road was long and driving alone sometimes sucks. It was also a bit scary because there were a lot of big trucks on the highway but it was not a hindrance at all it was rather become a personal challenge. But at least, the weather was on our side…it was just a lovely time all day. We called each other what time and where to meet them. Meeting halfway was uncomplicated since Makis is starting to get familiar in Cannes. We decided to meet with them in front of Palais des Festival. They’re coming from St. Raphael and the easiest place to meet up is in Cannes which is a very famous landmark.

At long last, here we are face to face! We embraced each other as if we knew each other for a very long time. I am glad that we have finally met altogether. We just went around the centre of Cannes to choose where do to the random chit chat and have lunch. Let me share of our “make love to the camera shots by Makis” ! I was really glad that Makis was there as she’s bubbly and funny enough to make us laugh out loud because of her spontaneous humour .

Who will believe that blogging and internet as a whole will make a lot of sense. I think if not for internet we will never meet wonderful people behind those blogs. What is good with internet we get a lot of eyeballs at social network and even create community buildings. Thanks to internet it’s certainly a way in realising to have a concrete human contact. The meeting was short and I know 5 hours is certainly not enough but we really had a grandiose time meeting each other.

P.S. And thanks a lot again to Joanne and Xavier for the wonderful lunch. We supposed to treat you guys but anyway we're looking forward to meet you again either in France or in the USA.

The Choir

2009-01-26T15:51:00.007+01:00

I've been wanting to write for some time to share this wonderful concert that took place May of 2007 in Marseilles (I know it's far too late) performed by the Manila Chamber Singers. They have had a European tour that year and Marseilles was one of their destinations. The concert was held at the Church where Filipinos and Spanish attend. I had the chance to meet with all these very talented young people from UP Diliman and here they are singing acapella:

Fantastic show isn't it !!! Many of us have attended and few French people as they were not advised earlier. It was absolutely one spectacular event for us Filipinos to see these young people who came all the way from the Philippines to Europe for a free concert. As a sign of gratitude, a lot of us bought their CD's they promote so as to compensate their expenses and some souvenir handmade by the choir. We also toured these young talents within Marseilles. And before they said goodbye a beautiful song was dedicated to us.

Hey guys hope you will come back to see us !

I just can't wait to see them perform once again ! Even if Marseilles doesn't have all these big Filipino artists in concert like Piolo doing a concert or Gary Valenciano, these young talented ones are worth watching ! Together, they have performed music that gave a tremendous joy to Filipinos abroad !

Make it a habit

2009-01-15T21:32:00.005+01:00

"La vie est belle mais ça dépend de qui". (Life is beautiful but it depends on whom.) This is the exact words of Jacques yesterday when I was watching 66 minutes. Jacques is 50 years old, one of the many homeless in the “Bois de Vincennes, Paris” . He lives in the midst at the park with a tent to live with. A comforter maybe 5 times thicker to protect from the cold winter but not enough to escape from freezing weather of Paris. Since he became a homeless he has this grave bronchitis and has become worse because of the situation he is into. Like every homeless people who lives in parks, riversides with their tents and huts, or live in side street with their card-board Jacques chose to put up his little home in the woods. He prefers to set up a tent in the woods rather than living in the sidewalks of Paris as it is difficult probably because of constant police control.

As temperature falls to -6°C the only thing he does together with other friend is to put a fireplace. Sometimes, no food to eat. Talk and laugh all together to forget that life is unjust. He said that they need to sleep earlier around 8 in the evening because the fire is not sufficient until the night. I can't help it and got teary eyed when he said that his future is behind him and that there isn’t hope anymore. And he let them pass. Sometimes, he thinks to put an end to his life to avoid this miserable situation. That is the only solution so as not to suffer anymore. But then again, when he’s clear-headed enough, he still thinks that maybe tomorrow will be another day. Or everything will pass one day. Briefly he seems to bend forward to that reflection.

In fact, his interview aired on the television last winter and a lot of people got so touched and so the situation gets better for Jacques. Thanks to that reportage he now receives help from a lot of people like receiving goods almost everyday. Accompanied with some children’s drawings and letters that he keeps and see life on a different phase.

So let’s make gratitude a habit even for simple things. Say your Thanks out loud. Stop complaining there are worse things out there. Be Grateful for the challenging and difficult times, too because that what make us stronger.

Image from Europe1

Marseille sous la neige

2009-01-08T17:05:00.024+01:00

Enfin, je suis là après une longue vacances. Je suis donc vous souhaiter une trés Bonne et Heureuse Année. Espérons que cette année sera meilleure pour tout le monde malgré la crise financière mondiale nous sommes confrontés. Surtout d'avoir une bonne sante car c'est primordial! Je vous parlerai de la suite d'une magnifique journée pour tous au moins ou peut être une galère pour ceux qui ont resté sur la route toute la nuit.

Il s'agit d'un paysage normal de notre hiver, printemps, l'été et l'automne.

Et ça, c'est quand Marseille sous la neige ! C'est beau et c'est rare !

Ce nes't pas une blague ! Le coin le plus chaud de la France est sous la neige heir. J'ai rarement vu Marseille comme cela. Mais selon mes voisins la dernière fois où il a neigé à Marseille c'était en 1962 et Février 1987. En surfant, j'ai découvert des vielles images grâce à ce site. Ces photos ont été prises Janvier 14, 1914.

Le Square de la Bourse

Vieux Port

Le Canal de la Douane

Vieux Port et Pont Transbordeur

Un coin du Parc Borely

Click for translation some words may not be exact but it will help you understand the subject !

Christmas Spirit

2008-12-22T21:45:00.004+01:00

As soon as we arrived from our vacation the first thing my kids asked me is our Christmas tree. They kept on bugging me to start decorating as they are eager to help me put the ornaments and Christmas lights. They are really waiting for this moment as they've seen Christmas decorations during our Philippine trip. I decided to get them in the garage. Voila, finally it's up after our 2 days arrival from the Philippines. But this photo you are looking at was taken only today that's why there are already wrapped gifts.

Our Christmas tree with presents already

This ornament is made by Mayumi from their school artwork

These 2 ones are their little stuff toys that they would like to be a part of decorations

At the bottom of our Christmas tree I have put the artwork of Sébastien that you see from your left (a candle shape green and silver color) and the red card with the star that goes with. The Christmas card with a silver Christmas tree was made by Mayumi together with the green box with cookies and chocolates inside. Those are very special ornaments that I will keep and will always be a part of our Christmas tree .

Socks I have put near the entrance

The Star as a sign of Nativity

This little cute one was given by grandparents 3 years ago and it's always there attached to the branch of the Christmas tree hiding behind the glistening lights. Isn't it cute !

This is the 2nd Annual OTWOMD Christmas Tree Blog Parade 2008 Meme created and conceptualized by OTWOMD of Bluepanjeet.Net The purpose of this meme is to enliven the Christmas spirit by showing to the world our very own Christmas trees. They say that it is on the Christmas tree that best describes how a person celebrates his or her own Christmas.

This meme was originally conceptualize in order to:

Promote the spirit of Christmas around the blogosphere
Spread awareness of the true meaning of the Christmas Tree
Encourage the family members to have a bonding around the Christmas tree
promote Christmas cheer and camaraderie among bloggers

Well, I think it's too late to tag someone here. But I am still curious how Joanne decorated her Christmas Tree as I saw great Christmas decoration in the US.

I am wishing everyone a Blessed and Joyful Christmas in spite of global crisis. I am sure we could surpass this difficult event that is happening around us.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL !!!