Les Miserables in Manila: I Dreamed a Dream

"I Dreamed a Dream." Oh well, just one of the song I like most from the phenomenal musical Les Misérables. And, how could I not love the song, "On My Own."

I want to watch this!

Les Mis is set to hit the stage on March 2016 to April 2016 at The Theatre at Solaire.

I dreamed of having tickets musical experience. It would be a great experience to watch the musical and hear our very own Filipina actress Rachelle Ann Go, as she reprise her role as Fantine.

Do you already have tickets for Les Mis?

I didn't get surprised when checked out Ticketworld website - tickets are almost sold out! Well, there are still few good seats left.

Les Miserables Schedule and Ticket Prices

Tickets are available at Ticketworld.com.ph and all TicketWorld outlets.
Ticket Prices:
VIP Php 7,000
A Reserve Php 5,800
B Reserve Php 4,500
C Reserve Php 3,350
D Reserve Php 1,750

Starting September 29 to October 29, 2015, Smart Infinity Members enjoy Priority Booking and a 10% discount on all tickets; and Visa Cardholders can enjoy 10% off on tickets.

Performance Schedule:
Tuesday to Friday 8:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday - 2:30PM & 8:00PM

*sigh* #theaterdream
Will I be using my Citibank Visa card to buy tickets? Or accept that some dreams remain to be just dreams? To those who are watching this musical, share your experiences with me!

Unrequited love.
Broken dreams.
Passion.
Sacrifice.
Compassion.
Redemption.

Les Mis is phenomenal for a reason - it's heart wrenching and truly beautiful at the same time - with real life messages and valuable lessons that live on.

"Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise." 

10 StartUp Innovators to "Pitch In" at Asia E- Commerce Expo 2015

Want to learn from and network with leaders from the biggest brands in Asia Pacific region? Know about the most awaited Asia E-Commerce Expo 2015!

‪#‎AECoE

Asia E- Commerce Expo 2015 is happening on November 25, 2015 at SMX Convention Center, Taguig from 8AM to 6PM. More than 20 speakers, 30 exhibitors who will showcase their products and services and over 300 attendees are expected to join the event.

This event aims to empower the start up innovators and traditional organizations to adapt E-Commerce & to learn from the following sessions and discussions about EPrivacy, Elogistics, EPayments, Market Analysis, Digital Marketing, CRM, Strategy, E- Commerce and Going Global.

10 Start Up Innovators who have submitted their profiles to AECoE will be chosen. These Start Up Innovators will be given 5 minutes to present their company profile, products and services for everyone to see. 

#AECoE is not just about learning, empowerment and inspiration but a potential future collaboration thru networking.

Event Speakers:
• Constantin Robertz- Managing Director, Zalora
• Lars Jeppesen- CEO, Tech One Global
• Jacqueline Van Den Ende- Managing Director, Lamudi
• Kristian Melquiades- General Manager, Viber
• Janette Toral- Founder, Digital Club Filipino
• Subir Lohani- Managing Director, Carmudi
• Chinkee Tan- Book Author and Radio Host
• Robert Yupangco- CEO, Yupangco Group of Companies
• Frederic Levy- Founder & CEO, CashCashPinoy
• Camille Montejo- CEO, Tree Top Adventure Inc.
• Bjorn Pardo- CEO, Xend Business Solutions
• Quentin Boucher- Managing Director, Ensogo
• Amor Maclang- Director for Communications, Geiser Maclang Marketing Communications Inc.
• Mannix Pabalan- CEO, Hashtag Digital

Invite from NASA: Send your name to Mars: Insight!

NASA boarding pass - my ticket to ride!

Mars trip anyone? Ok, I once dreamed of becoming a space explorer. Receiving the email from NASA Mars Outreach is just exciting.

Again, NASA is inviting the world on its Mars: Insight mission.

Our names will be recorded on a silicon microchip and shuttled to Mars onboard the InSight Mars lander. So, it's not really getting up there, which is good enough.

NASA’s InSight Mars lander is scheduled to blast off from Vandenberg Air Force Base in March 2016. InSight will study the deep interior of Mars to understand how all of the rocky planets are formed – including Earth!

"... be part of that journey and the future of space exploration."

‪#‎JourneyToMars‬

This is the second time that NASA has given the public to feel included in their mission. My son is really amazed about all this.

I was also part of the first test mission of the Orion spacecraft capsule. I'm even a Frequent Flyer with NASA. Cool!

I'm a Martian since 10/2014 :)

So, get your boarding pass to Mars from NASA!

To send your name on the Red Planet aboard InSight, go to: http://mars.nasa.gov/participate/send-your-name/insight/

Last day to register is on September 8, 2015 (11:59 p.m. ET).

Visit NASA InSight page for additional information about the mission.

FREE flight ticket to Mars from NASA

My boarding pass to Mars :)

Here's your chance to take part in NASA's Journey to Mars. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is giving away FREE tickets to Mars via the Orion spacecraft.

You can now send your name to Mars!

Sign up HERE to get your free space tickets. Just enter your name, country, postal code, and email address.

You'll get a personalized "flight ticket" just like the one I have. Cool spacey idea!

#Orion #JourneyToMars

Get your "boarding pass" now! Deadline for submitting your name for the Orion mission is on October 31. The first flight of Orion spacecraft (which will eventually transport humans to the Red Planet) will launch on December 4.

Well, this is NASA's effort to create more public interest in its space exploration program. If we can't step foot on the Red Planet, at least our names can fly on future NASA exploration flights and missions to Mars.

Space fans, astronaut-wannabees and kids would surely love this!

FREE Internet for SmartPrepaid, Talk 'N Text, and Sun Prepaid Users!

Wow FREE Internet! I was browsing Twitter when I read this announcement from @SMARTCares -

If you're among the 66M Smart Prepaid, Talk ‘N Text, & Sun Prepaid users, Text FREE to 9999 for #SmartFREEInternet! pic.twitter.com/Y9E2Xc9Ybt
— Smart Communications (@SMARTCares) September 26, 2014

Because I remain to be a loyal Smart prepaid subscriber, I got excited.

It means we can browse, post and share updates on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for free! We can shop online, read news, search for information, check emails, update our blogs, etc. all for Free!

Text FREE to 9999

That's Free Internet up to 30Mb per day until November 30!

Checking out Smart's website:

What is the FREE INTERNET offer?
As a special promo/offer, ALL PREPAID subscribers of Smart will enjoy FREE MOBILE INTERNET access. 

What does FREE INTERNET mean?
FREE INTERNET is a promotion available to all ACTIVE prepaid subscribers to enjoy access to mobile Internet with no extra cost, initially up to 30MB, and subject to the promo terms and fair use policy. 

How can I avail of this special offer?
All ACTIVE Smart subscribers can avail of the free Internet promo anytime within the promo period.
To avail of the service, the subscriber must register daily, by sending FREE to 9999.
Registration is FREE. The subscriber will then receive an SMS confirmation upon successful registration.

Read the complete details here

#SmartFREEInternet #MVPAnnouncement #LiveMore

Thank you for this great news! Good job @SMARTCares!
Got to try it now :)

Zoomanity Group: It's Cool to Visit a Zoo

Do you also love visiting a zoo?

I do. As a child, I enjoyed every zoo visit. It formed part of my treasured memories. I can still remember the zoos I've visited with my family here in the country and even outside the country. Plus, all those educational field trips. Thankful for having experienced it all.

As a mom, I'm glad that my kids got to experience zoo visits too. The first farm-zoo that they got to visit wayback 2009 was Paradizoo! I love how they face lit up (or got scared), how they interact and how curious they became as they saw different animals.

It's good to know that Zoomanity Group gives you ways to experience that coolest zoo adventure with the whole family. They have animal theme parks in the country that brings happiness, educational experiences and amusement with preservation and animal welfare. They provide an environment that lets everyone enjoy as they explore, stay and rediscover the happiness of visiting a zoo. That's really cool!

For your next family adventure, here are 5 Zoomanity Group theme parks worth visiting:

Paradizoo Farm

#throwback Paradizoo 2009

 If you want to enjoy nature while spending leisure time with family and friends, then you must visit Paradizoo Farm in Mendez, Cavite.

They have gardens full of vegetables and floral designs. You can also interact with different animals like llama, camels, miniature horses, ostriches, greyhounds, or labrador retrievers. If you want, you can also ride on a cart drawn by an albino carabao.

It's a place that will give you that "Plant Me Home” experience. You can pick vegetables and flowers from garden plots and bring it home.  You'll really love the beauty of this serene "Paradise."

Hope to visit this place again.


Zoobic Safari

Zoobic Safari is located at the Subic Bay Freeport's Forest Adventure. It is where you can diverse exotic animals roaming in their natural habitat. You'll be glad to see those different habitats in the forest such as streams, grasslands, and terrains.

Source:  Zoomanity Group website

As you visit Zoobic Safari you can look forward to all these -
+ Zoobic Park for that mini-trekking experience and a chance to feed animals like parakeets, bearcats, camels, etc.
+ Savannah: a sanctuary of the wild animals such as ostriches, potbellies, wild boars, and guinea fowls.
+ Serpentarium: an old ammunition bunker that showcases of various species of reptiles like snakes, lizards and turtles
+ Rodent World: to see that collection of rodents and their Mice Surprise area
+ Animal MuZOOeum for their rare collection of real stuffed animals
+ Close Encounter with their Siberian-Bengal tigers
+ Tiger Safari: where you can experience the thrill of being chased by full-grown tigers aboard their customized Safari Jeep
+ Bird Walk Experience where you can feed parakeets or love birds on the palm of your hand
+ Aetas' Trail where you can watch our Native Aeta Brothers' perform a traditional dance presentation
+ Croco loco where you can have the chance to feed the crocodiles


Residence Inn

Source:  Zoomanity Group website

Residence Inn is located at the heart of Tagaytay City. It is famous for its Mini Zoo appreciating love for animals At the center of a round green field is a large stable where you can see the horses.

Residence Inn is the perfect place to unwind especially if you're on a budget. Just seeing the beautiful view of Taal Lake and feeling the cool breeze of Tagaytay are more than enough.

They have a Gazebo restaurant where you can give their famous "Bulalo", "Tawilis" (a fresh water sardine), and "Dynamite" or Chili cheese rolls a try.


Zoocobia Fun Zoo

If you're looking for complete educational and fun experience, then you got to visit Zoocobia Fun Zoo. It is located in the foothills of the extended Clark Freeport Zone.

Source:  Zoomanity Group website

One of its main attractions is the Zooc. It is a gravity car patterned after the luge in Sentosa Resort in Singapore. It runs on a 400 meter track with three hairpin curves. Wow! This is something my kids would love!

You can explore all these areas to complete your ecological experience:
+ Birds of Paradise to have a close encounter with colorful birds.
+ Philippine's Pride to see animals and plants that are endemic in the country.
+ Garden Maze that features various animals’ topiaries.
+ Barn to experience bottle feeding baby farm animals.
+ Menagerie to see their unique collection of stuffed real animals.

Zoocolate Thrills

Zoocolate Thrills is an adventure theme park in Loboc, Bohol. It's where you can take a river cruise to explore Loboc River. They offer animal encounters with ostriches, tigers, and bearcats. You can also enjoy their tram ride, horse/buffalo ride and zip/zing ride. Worth visiting, right?

Source:  Zoomanity Group website

#Cool2Zoo
See, it's really cool to zoo and it's something that I can say all over again!

It's always cool to see animals in their natural settings and even interact with them. Somehow, we can experience a stronger connection to nature, explore our environment and even make new discoveries. We'll get to know the welfare of these animals and see what is being done to protect animals that face extinction.

Be cool and visit a zoo!

Zoomanity Group http://www.zoomanity.com.ph
Twitter @zoomanitygroup

Emergency hotlines and hashtags

#MarioPH #FloodPH

Tropical Storm Mario hits our country!

Several areas in Metro Manila were flooded,  classes and work in government offices were suspended, and some domestic flights got cancelled. Places like Cainta and Marikina were placed under state of calamity.

It is pays to save these emergency hotline numbers and hashtags.

Source: Department of Health Philippines 

Source: Department of Health Philippines 

Stay alert and be prepared for anything. Make sure that you're ready with your emergency kits.

Keep safe everyone!

Most Inspiring Quotes and Wisdom from Nelson Mandela

Farewell to the great Nelson Mandela (1918-2013), former president of South Africa and Nobel Peace Prize winner.

"Death is something inevitable. When a man has done what he considers to be his duty to his people and his country, he can rest in peace. I believe I have made that effort and that is, therefore, why I will sleep for the eternity." - documentary interview, 1994

Mankind lost a mandkind lost a great son who inspired countless individuals. An amazing anti-apartheid leader, peacemaker, and a revolutionary global icon.

Here are some of his uplifiting and inspirational words:

• What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others.
• Part of being optimistic is keeping one's head toward the sun, one's feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested. but I would not and could not give myself up to despair.
• Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.
• It always seems impossible until it's done.
• Money won't create success, the freedom to make it will.
• We must use time wisely and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right.
• I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.
• The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.
• Real leaders must be ready to sacrifice all for the freedom of their people.
• Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.
• I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.
• Lead from the back — and let others believe they are in front.
• There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find ways in which you yourself have altered. - A Long Walk To Freedom, 1994.
• A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination. - Long Walk to Freedom, 1994

Support Earth Hour 2013

Earth Hour unites people all over the world to protect the planet. Join the hundreds of millions of people who will turn off their lights at 8:30 pm on March 23.

Show your support! Make change happen for a better energy future.

As you turn off the lights for an hour, think of the many creative things you can do with your family in the dark. You can spend time stargazing, have a candle lit dinner, listen to music and a lot more.

Real Estate Mortgage Loans

Having your own house is not as easy as 1-2-3. Looking for the perfect place and deciding what type of property to purchase are just the initial steps. There are also many options available in the market. You can choose to buy a lot then build your own house; purchase a constructed house and lot, a townhouse, an apartment or a condominium unit.

Aside from that, you need to estimate what kind of a property you can afford and how to finance it. Financing your property can be the hardest part. Housing loans and bank financing will be a viable solution to help you purchase your dream home. However, you have to determine how much you can borrow and how much you can afford to pay on a monthly basis. You can ask your broker to assist you in mortgage and loans calculation. If ever you encounter payment difficulty in the future, you can also ask for mortgage loan modification or restructuring programs.

Buying and selling real estate properties and all the transactions involved in it is something that my mom is good at. This week, she took matters in her hands to assist my sister in their plans to have a new home. Her transactions for the government housing loans, property appraisal and at the Registry of Deeds were all successful. Sooner or later, my sister and her family would get to transfer in their new home. Hopefully, this is a great start for this year.

Understanding these importance of these documents such as Contract to Sell, Deed of Sale, Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT), and Tax Declaration (Tax Dec), would really be helpful. Also, you have to determine your financial and credit standing. Typical payment schemes that you can use to purchase a property include cash, bank financing, government housing loans and in-house/deferred system.

I realize that familiarizing yourself with real estate is something that will give you benefit in the long run, especially if you're a first time property buyer. With all those documents, taxes, fees and transactions involved in buying a property, one really need assistance from a professional real estate consultant and broker.

-----
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post however, all the points and views are my own.

Cold January Air

It's cold outside! It's been a week since we last turned on our room air conditioner because of the cold air. Well, I just love the cool morning and evening breeze, but it also makes me sleep earlier than usual. It's good that our shower heater is functioning well and we won't chill while taking a bath every morning. The cold weather here in our country is still bearable, unlike other countries and places wherein the cold is really drastic.

Like most people living in our country, the thought of snow and winter sounds exciting. However, I can't imagine how people could live in Antarctica, Alaska and Iceland whenever the temperature goes down to negative degrees.

Those living in countries with winter weather usually have home heating system and furnaces to heat their houses. They always make sure that they maintain the furnaces that they would be using during winter months in good condition.

Those having problems with their furnaces should get assistance from the most trusted home heating solutions for Calgary furnaces. They provide furnace repair, maintenance and installation. They commit to their 7–Point ClearComfor Guaranteed Service Policy to provide their customers with the best service possible. It's great for those living within Calgary since they won't have problems in keeping their furnaces running properly and efficiently since there's a professional team that they can count on.

Partners Trust Real Estate

Looking at several houses for rent and for sale in the nearby village keeps my interest. However, finding the perfect house to rent or to purchase is hard. There are several factors that need to be considered including all the financial dues associated with it.

Not everyone can afford to buy their own house. Initially, renting a property becomes an option. Renting prepares you for the big move in the next years. When renting, you don't have to spend huge amount of money to live into that house. One advantage is that it gives you flexibility to move if you get transferred in a new location.

If you are planning and are in the middle of searching a property, a real estate broker, like the ones from www.thepartnerstrust.com can make searching easier. It is better to seek assistance from real estate professionals especially if you're a first time buyer can relieve you of the stress associated with house hunting. A reliable real estate agent with property listings in your preferred location is a good start. From there, you can check out the properties being offered and select the best options that best meet your needs. Of course, the property you'll be renting or purchasing should meet your financial budget.

Having your own house is the best investment that you can make. It gives you a sense of security. But, whether you choose to rent or buy a house this year, make sure it meets your needs and complement the lifestyle you want. Paying for the property is the hardest part you need to prepare for. If you're set on buying a property, you can pay through bank financing or government housing loans.

Like most people, I also look forward to owning our own house. More than that, if I have millions of money to spend, I would invest in the real estate market, purchase lots and condominium units, build and sell houses, and develop commercial spaces for rent in the future. Well, maybe what I can do for the meantime is to spend time learning more about real estate and understand all transactions associated with it.

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post however, all the points and views are my own.

Where are the Keys?

Can you count or remember how many times have you lost your keys or misplace it? Unexpected situations like opening house or car doors happen from time to time. It is an advantage if there is a professional locksmith in nearby areas that can assist you in times of emergencies.

Everyone in our family have their own set of duplicate house keys. But there are still times when we even forget where we place our house keys, car keys or closet keys.

Lost key problems or emergency vehicle open-ups do happen. If you are in the Calgary area and you usually encounter these type of situations, you have to you can contact a professional locksmith Calgary ab in your area. They specialize in emergency door and vehicle door unlocking. Aside from handling businesses and offices, they also provide assistance to residential door problems such as key replacement or lock picking. So if you lost or forget where you put your lock keys especially at night, you can call them immediately. The provide assistance 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

A reliable locksmith who can fix all of your lock requirements will help make your life easier. Make sure that you keep their contact numbers within reach.

Advertiser's contact info: Quick LockWorks, Ltd. 104-3223 83 St. NW - Calgary - Alberta - T3B 5N1 - (403) 202-7656

Real Estate Home Opportunities

The Holiday Season is the best time to purchase that dream house or gadget. Most people had already received their bonuses and some had bought gifts from their hard-earned money. Shopping malls, bazaars and trade fairs are filled with shoppers on the look for the perfect gift. Aside from that, it seems that there are also lots of real estate agents handing out flyers to prospective clients.

Have you ever thought of buying a property for your family or your children this Christmas? This would be the best gift that they'll get to have not just this year, but throughout their lives. There are many properties in the market that you can choose - from houses, condominium units, lots, apartments, that would fit your need and financial budget.

Though most are preoccupied with buying presents, some are also looking for a property where they can invest their money or a house for their family. Holidays can really be a great time to invest in a property. Buying a property during the holiday season is one of the perfect time to get a great deal. During this season, people are usually in festive mood to offer a better deal or do a negotiation.

Those planning to purchase a home can also considered short sales. It is always great to find a property bring sold at a lesser price. If you're thinking of Las Vegas, several homes, condominiums and townhouses are for sale and for rent around Having a professional assist you in those transactions would make home buying a great experience without all those stresses.

Those interested in buying short sales in the area must seek assistance from Las Vegas short sale specialist. During this time, you'll find sellers that are serious about selling the property at a good price and real estate agents who are motivated to achieve their sales quotas.

We all know that Las Vegas is a city famous for its casinos. Travellers and tourists visit the city to shop, dine, gamble and enjoy the exciting lifestyle around the area. Aside from the award-winning casinos, the city is also great for family vacations, outdoor experiences and other surprising things you can do.

Wouldn't it feel great to have a newly purchased property to welcome the New Year?

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post however, all the points and views are my own.

Las Vegas Real Estate Opportunities

I always think of Las Vegas as a place filled with world-famous award-winning casinos, hotels, gambling, gaming, shopping and fine dining. No doubt that the famous Sin City is also tagged as the Entertainment Capital of the World. It's a place where many people stay all night to go to clubs and hotels to drink and gamble. It's also great destination for everyone who want the kind of life the city offers.

Those who are also checking out places to stay or live in Las Vegas can start with real estate listings for homes for rent or for sale. To find a great deal, homes listen in short sale Las Vegas must also be considered.

For those planning to sell their Las Vegas home, a short sale is a good alternative to foreclosure. From what I've learned, it's a real estate transaction where the homeowner gets permission from the bank to sell their property in a lesser value than they owe on the mortgage. Usually, homeowners who are in financial trouble recourse to this type of transaction. Some people find it beneficial to purchase a short sale since the house is in bargain. During a "short sale," a home is being sold for less than the owners owe for the loan on their house. The buyer gets to buy the property at a reduced price. This is best for people who are not in a hurry to live in their purchased homes since short sales usually take months to close.

One can always find get great deals on Las Vegas real estate. There are several homes, townhouses, condominium units for rent and for sale in the area. Of course, one should consult a real estate professional who can help you find the best deal, answer your questions and assist you with all the transactions.

The city is a great place with an exciting nightlife and is also perfect for family getaways. Aside from the massive casinos scattered throughout the city, you'll always find great things that will surprise you at Las Vegas. One should also not forget to check and find the best deals on hotels, restaurants, casinos, events, golf and other things to do in the city. There are several outdoor experiences, sightseeing and concerts that will keep you interested. You'll find that 24 hours is really not enough.

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post for Schwartz Law Firm, however, all the points and views are my own.

Learning Mandarin Chinese

Ni hao!
This is the first Chinese word that my kids learned.

Then they learned to count from one to ten.
yi èr san sì wu lìu qi ba jiu shí

And the words are followed by greetings, polite expressions and more!

This school year, my kids have weekly Mandarin Chinese classes. My daughter, who's in Grade 2, will have Mandarin exams next week. Since I can't assist my daughter in reviewing for her Mandarin exam, I'll just remind her to go over her notes and practice writing the basic words.

In their school, Mandarin is already part of the curriculum, but the good thing is, it's not part of their grading system. At least, they'll get to learn and understand the language without feeling pressured. 

My kids are enjoying their Mandarin classes. They’re even practicing at home the words that they’ve learned and sharing it with me!

I know that learning the Chinese language can enrich their academic experience and enhance their cognitive development. It allows them to appreciate the multicultural world that we live in. 

Hopefully they'll be able to converse well in Chinese or perhaps write Chinese letters in years’ time. Maybe they'll be able to use the language when they get to work with Chinese businessmen or visit China in the future. 

Exploring Bangkok

Bangkok is one of the top destination Asian tourists and travelers. Staying at the best hotels in Bangkok allows you to explore the exotic city of Bangkok at your leisure. 

I remember my youngest sister's UN school program where they represented the country of Thailand, explored their culture and performed a traditional Thai dance. 

This makes us want to visit Bangkok since cheap flights are easy to find nowadays. You just have to take advantage of the low cost airfare and travel package. The city's spectacular palaces, dazzling temples, colorful Chinatown and world-famous floating market, makes it a place worth visiting. 

Shopping at Bangkok would really be enjoyable too! It's a shopper's paradise and among the best places on earth to bag a bargain. It's a place to buy Thai silk, jewelry, and Thai antiques. 

If one day we get to visit Bangkok, we're surely gonna try riding the Tuk-tuk, the most common means of transport in the city. 

Of course, one must not miss the Thai cuisine and delicious street food. It would be enjoyable to eat alfresco-style like the locals do, amidst the buzzing street markets. 

Be it exploring the diverse tradition or visiting Bangkok's attractions, this city is a wealth of first class experiences complete with cultural extravaganzas, perfect for travelers and family holidays.

As The Falcon Strikes

Whew! Typhoon Falcon!
News. Twitter trends. Facebook updates.
Flooded areas, canceled flights, suspended classes, traffic, evacuations.
It's bringing back the unpleasantness of last year's Typhoon Ondoy.

Thinking about knee-deep and waist-high waters makes me shiver.
The overflowing Marikina River gives me goose bumps.
Felt devastated for those who experienced damages under Falcon's wings.
Yet, thankful my family is safe and sound. 

Typhoons are always mean. We can't contend with it.
But we can be prepared and pray for safety.

We might have asked for rainfall last summer, but not like this.
Yes, the rain always helps me think, but not this much.

Yes, I love the cool weather it inevitably brings.
A "bed-weather" making me wish to simply stay in bed.
But then I can't.
I need to work. I need to write.

I find listening to rain drops enjoyable
The way it washes away tears and how it brings hope.
Yet, storms are different thing.

Whew! I just miss writing in free verse.
Here. The Woman misses her blog and countless other things.
Just taking a few minutes away from those hundred projects.
Thinking. Finding solutions.

Oh well, tomorrow is another day.
Typhoon Falcon, as you leave, please bring with you the bad vibes and memories.

Oh Mr. Sun. Sun. Mr. golden sun.
Please shine down on me.

Keep safe everyone!

Sending prayers all over!

Golden Ticket for Prince William and Kate Middleton's Wedding

Are you lucky at random draws? Well, maybe your name will get picked and you'll get the chance to attend the royal wedding!

photo source: Reuters

Prince William and Kate Middleton will invite 100 lucky people to attend their royal wedding on April 29. The couple want the British public to be part of their wedding ceremony and celebration.

Winners will be picked completely at random - just like Willy Wonka's Golden Ticket draw from the classic novel 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory'.

"Those lucky enough to land an invitation will only find out when it drops on their door mat." - The Sun UK

The lucky guests will get to socialize with international royals and heads of state at London’s Westminster Abbey. (how fortunate!)

They will also get to attend the lavish reception at the Buckingham Palace and raise a toast to the future king and his queen.

Oh well, hope that my name gets included in the golden ticket!
(*wishful thinking)

Island Getaway Holiday Vacation

A holiday vacation is something that everyone look forward to. People usually take advantage of low cost airfares, airline promos and tour packages, so they can save more for their vacation.

For those who wants a serene and quiet paradise, a beach or island vacation where they can relax, and unwind is the ultimate holiday vacation destination. It's where you can opt for the more scenic and rural setting, instead of the usual hotel-living. Renting a villa or a privately owned home can be more satisfying than staying in a hotel if you're on a beach holiday.

There are several island vacation to consider and one of this is the Hilton Head Island. It is renowned as one of the world's most family-friendly vacation destinations and one of South Carolina's top 10 family beaches. It's a place where you'll notice something special the moment you arrive. The cool ocean breeze provides the island's air-conditioning offering you the perfect amount of beauty, inspiration and serenity you've always wanted to experience.

Hilton Head South Carolina is a perfect destination for anybody who enjoys golf courses and fabulous beaches. It continues to attract families not only for its sandy beach, but its myriad of other activities that you can do with your family. There are different activities that kids can choose from - tennis, golf, kayaking and even surfing. For the more adventurous, there are selections of water sports and land sports available. Budget conscious travelers can also find inexpensive places to eat, from chain restaurants to local favorites.

This treasured coast can be best experience by staying at a Hilton Head vacation rental. Privately-owned vacation rentals and commercial commercial resort properties, are available all year round. These resort accommodations will make your stay as comfortable as possible. Villas are set in a charming setting, perfect for those who wants to relax, smell the ocean breeze and watch the sun set into the waters.

Peaceful getaway, great food, comfortable lodging and fun activities make Hilton Head a perfect tourist destination. It's time to treat yourself and your family to a relaxing island holiday vacation, and Hilton Head Island South Carolina is a great place to go.