Supermoon: Our bright light in the darkness

“The moon stays bright when it doesn't avoid the night.” ~ Rumi

Last night, our skies got lit by the amazing supermoon.

Have you seen the moon as it approaches the horizon?
Are you one of the enthusiasts who enjoyed this stunning natural phenomenon?

I think that when people paid attention to nature, got inspired to go out and look at the sky is something that makes it more spectacular.

While my phone camera didn't give justice to its beauty, I enjoyed checking out magnificent photos that people from all over the world shared online.

It's a beautiful night. Our bright light in the darkness #supermoon #supermoon2016

A photo posted by czaroma (@czaroma) on Nov 14, 2016 at 4:16am PST

As described by astronomers, when the moon is closest to Earth it is being in the perigee stage. The Supermoon appears about 14% bigger and 30% brighter that it has since 1948. If you missed the supermoon, you’ll have to wait until November 25, 2034.

#supermoon #supermoon2016

I'm grateful seeing my Supermoon.

I am searching, weaving lightness in this dark moment. Finding a brighter light is filling my life with immense hope.

Let these quotes say what I feel:

"Never doubt in the dark what God has shown you in the light." - Victor Raymond Edman

“The moon is a loyal companion. It never leaves. It’s always there, watching, steadfast, knowing us in our light and dark moments, changing forever just as we do. Every day it’s a different version of itself. Sometimes weak and wan, sometimes strong and full of light. The moon understands what it means to be human. Uncertain. Alone. Cratered by imperfections.” - Tahereh Mafi, Shatter Me

Just a quick note

The New Year worth looking forward to. It started good.
Hoping and believing that this year would be way better than the pasts.
Learning. Accepting. Appreciating.
Keeping my focus on what matters most.

Cheers to 2015!
May all of us see the good things that this year would bring!

-----
There's a lot I wanted to share, to do and to work on. Yes, I miss blogging...

Instincts and soulful connection

"Intuition is seeing with the soul." - Dean Koontz

Just writing and sharing my thoughts in free verse.... something that I miss doing.

For today.
My intuition does make sense.
Contemplating between pinkish red or blue violet,
The latter won.

A thought flashes thru while on the way.
Dismissed thinking it was senseless,
Suddenly it became real.

My hunches were true!
Or was it nudges?
Destined to be?
Or the universe heard my subconscious?

How weird the world works.
That fleeting moment.
Not expecting anything or simply avoiding.

Just remained to be cool strangers or perhaps acquaintances.
What's on your mind?
Mine remains but wanting to know.
Oh well, leave it there.

Voices that doesn't' use words but speak.
Or that soulful connection,
Only hearts can understand.

Flashbacks.
Memories.
Of that same place somewhere.
What seemed like a last savory remained to linger.

A day to be remembered.
Now, eyes meeting when things had changed.
Smiles of acknowledgement and nothing more.

All these and realizations.
Simply fragments of time.
When intuitive abilities became powerful.

Like a behind-the-scene-thing that gets played out.
Not wanting nor expecting but gets real.
Something hard to describe or explain.
They do not come often, but they do come.

#innersense #soreal

Catching Up!

Just a quick post to say "Hi!" to everyone!

How's the start of your new year? Whew, 2013 filled me with everything there is, kept me loaded with strength, emotions, hope, challenges, and a lot more!

Praying that this year would be a better one instead. I know it would be.

May we all have a great and prosperous 2014!

Forgotten

A space became empty, not enough time or maybe strength to fill its void.

The woman have forgotten this piece; not the memories of the days that has passed.

Happiness. Joys. Blessings. Gratefulness.
Questions. Goodbyes.

World turning too fast. Time has always been too swift.

What remains?

Keeping in tune with what's bound to be.

*sigh*

Heart's Day Love

It's great how love continuously fills the air every Heart's Day. When flowers, chocolates and dinner dates rule above all.

I got cards and a chocolate from my kids and hubby. Simple, yet I'm still touched by the sweetness. They know that I don't need any expensive whatevers, when a greeting, a kiss and a hug are more than enough to make my day complete.

Happy Post-Valentine's Day! Keep the love alive! 

Back to Normal

I had been very busy as soon as year 2013 started.
We spent weeks packing our things for the big move.
We spent days reviewing for mi kid's quarterly exams and preparing for their school activities.
Days when it seems that the hours we had was never enough.
Stress. Busy. Challenges. Worries.
There had been a couple of things and work that I had failed to do.
Still, I remain to be thankful for what life had given me and my family.
Life had remained to be great.
Our family had been blessed more.
The greatest blessing is celebrating our son's 7th birthday.
A celebration which turned out to as simply the best.
His simple birthday wish was granted... and I saw more than happiness in his eyes!
Soon, hopefully in days time, things will get back to normal.
I know it would be. 

Goodbye 2012, Welcome 2013

My free verse thoughts as I welcome the New Year... 

Remembering 2012 would always bring sadness and joy,
and my heart yearning.

Like a dream - filled with drama and goodbyes,
Of bitter sweet memories,
and glimpses of tears that travels to heaven.

Learning. Experiences.

2012 made me more prouder of my kids' achievement -
A kindergarten graduation welcome address and winning a declamation.
Dances and more dances.
Capturing all their achievements, big or small.
Their confidence, passion and learning makes life more meaningful.

Like a star, you made me famous for a day or two.
A magazine appearance and short morning TV show segment,
With paychecks and talent fees at hand.

Of the countless winnings and blessings I received, I am grateful.
You give me more than what I need,
Much more than what my heart desires.

How would I look back at you, 2012?
With memories I wanted to cherish,
With every twists and countless turns.
When there are times I wish would be just gone into oblivion.
Days when I prayed... wishing things would otherwise be different.

Fears and cheers.
Those sweet sprinkles helped me endure the heat and dryness of summer.
Feeling the love and support kept our strength and our faith.
More meaningful family togetherness becomes a treasure.. timeless.

Still.
I struggle yet remain to be challenged.
I braved the storms and the strong wind.
I've seen life beyond than what is supposed to be.

Breathing softly.
Pages turned... a chapter closed.

Moving on.

Now, I welcome 2013 with a happy heart.
With hope and strength.
Filled with more love, stronger faith and wonderful togetherness.
Looking forward for better moments and the best days we can have.

Saying Hello to 2013!
Cheers and Happy New Year everyone!
Let's all have 365 days to be thankful for!

The New Glorietta Vibe: World's Biggest Fashion Show

Move to the Vibe at Glorietta this coming Thursday, November 29, 2012 at 6 pm and see fashion history unfolds.

Watch as the country attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the most number of people modelling on the runway. Around 2,500 of the Philippines' most beautiful, including the country’s top models, celebrities and personalities will be gracing the catwalk.


Well, guess what... I'm part of the list! And I got this AVA approved mark on my photo.

It was days ago when I got notifications from organizers that I'll be modelling for MEG Clothing.  This is something that I never dream of doing. But it is an honor to be included in the list. After that, I was informed that all MEG models would be joining the Vibe Segment.

Well, who wouldn't want to be part of the biggest fashion event in history?

As the event becomes nearer, I've seen more and more people wanting to be part of this fashion show. So, will you get to see me walking on the runway too?

Anyway, you can also catch this event via livestream at www.newgloriettavibe.ava.ph.

Palm Drive, Glorietta.
November 29, 2012 | 6 pm onwards

Good Housekeeping Magazine Makeover

Have you seen my makeover page at Good Housekeeping magazine October 2012 issue? If not, here it is:

Dress: Plains & Prints, Belt: Unarosa, Shoes: VNC
Accessories: The Ramp Crossings

I felt good for being chosen for the Mommy Makeover section.

I got excited during hair color, hair cut and hair treatment session at Azta Urban Salon. My long black hair turned into mahogany-colored layered bob. Love it! My family, friends and everyone else loved my new hair. Thanks to Anton, Azta Salon senior hairstylist, for taking care of my hair.

It was raining hard during the photoshoot. Good thing, my husband accompanied me to the studio.

Thank you Ms. Pia, GH, beauty and fashion editor, for choosing the best dress for me. I initially  prefer wearing pants for the shoot, yet, she knew that wearing the dress would be perfect. And she was right!

Here's a TIP she shared:

Look for a dress in a cut that suits your body type. Halters are flattering for almost any body shape, making your shoulders look sexy.

Thanks also to Niña, GH Editorial Assistant, for making my look complete. Yes, I felt fab! Thanks to Elaine, Guerlain makeup artist, for making me look prettier; and to Sonia, for the natural hair style and for taking care of it throughout the photoshoot.

Thanks also to Jun for the great photo!

Again, thank you so much Good Housekeeping Magazine Philippines for this wonderful experience.

nice meeting you all :)

Saying Goodbye

It's hard to let go of things I've been used to. But sometimes, I have to. I'd rather say goodbye to things than say goodbye to people who means so much to me.

It's time for something new and I have made up my mind. 

I've been used to wearing my hair long and black, but days ago, I said.. " Goodbye long black hair. Hello short colored hair!"

It makes me feel at my best. I'm loving my new look.

new look without makeup :)

Thanks to my hairstylist for recommending the new haircut and color. And of course, to the people whom I'll be mentioning months from now (gotta keep it a secret first).

My family loved my new hair and most friends liked my new look too.
So, what do you think?

+ On the News:
Oh well, since it's about goodbye, I'm wondering why Hollywood stars Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes are divorcing after 5 years of marriage! One reason which I've read at TMZ is that Katie doesn’t want Suri to practice Scientology. Now, I'm getting more curious about what that Scientology belief system is.

I Love Being a Woman

"A woman is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture and transform."
This is what I LOVE most about being a WOMAN.

Our body is powerful and beautiful. We are blessed with the power to create life and to be a mother.
Our complexities allow us to feel a whole range of emotions - from being delighted and passionate, to being seductive and emotional.
Our tears can flow abundantly in the same way with our laughter.

We have unlimited capacity to Love.
We can adapt to any situations like chameleons. We fight for what we believe in like warriors.
We count our blessings and celebrate in many ways our experiences from the heart and mind.

I love that we manifest our own destiny, wear many different hats and fulfill countless roles.
We live our lives to the best we can - with our family, in our relationships, in our jobs or in any other environment imaginable.

I love how we make ourselves the most wonderful, the greatest and the most loving person in the world.
Even Beyonce also says it well - "Who run the world? GIRLS!!!"

Thank You 2011, Welcome 2012

Thank you 2011,

For making our year a memorably-great one.
You filled our year with happiness, blessings and success.
You make life worth living.
You fully opened our eyes, our minds and our hearts.

Each day, you made it one better than yesterday.
Life is indeed getting better.
The storms kept our faith and the bumpy ride makes us stronger.

I won't wish for the "back-to-December"-thing
You made my favorite month happier.
I'll simply remember and be more grateful.

Welcome 2012!

Resolutions aren't part of me, I simply allow a better life to happen.
Looking forward to more life experiences and wonderful moments.

More challenges awaits me, I believe that I can surpass it all.
May you continue to hear the prayers in our hearts.
We need faith and strength in thousand folds.

Each day will be filled with thankfulness.
Believing whole-heartedly in His will and
Making prayers our best companion.

Fill our life with infinite possibilities
Hoping that it would be as fruitful and amazing as the year that was.
May we laugh more and love more.
Let me cherish life even more!

"I have found that if you love life, life will love you back." - Arthur Rubinstein

Yummy Skin Delights: Skin Cravings

I got these delightful bottles from Skin Cravings Fan of the Hour contest in Facebook. I won by answering their Question #3 last September 13 (see, 13 is a lucky day too!).

Skin Cravings Body Scrub and Body Lotion

The question is: If you were to add your name in the dictionary, what would it mean?

That's the first time I’ve answered their Fan of the Hour contest and it seems like the question is indeed meant for me!

Here’s my winning answer:

Oh well, that’s how unique my name is! You can’t even find it in any names dictionary at all. :)

Skin Cravings Body Scrub and Body Lotion is "inspired by food and their fragrance." The gift pack contains Body Scrub and Body Lotions packed in dainty bottles. Looks like milk and yogurt in a bottle!

Smooth Over Body Lotion: Choc' Mint Kisses and Strawberry Cream
Scrub Me Pretty Body Scrub: Cranberry Yoghurt, Strawberry Yoghurt, Dewberry Yoghurt

Love this line from Skin Cravings, "For skin so soft to be bitten, smells so sweet to be eaten."

I can’t wait to use the scrubs and lotion!

Skin Cravings Body Scrub and Body Lotion is from Innovitelle, Inc., a subsidiary of Unilab.
Thanks Innovitelle for these goodies!

Like Skin Cravings on Facebook!

This One Is For You

Dear Blog,

If you think I have neglected you, I don't.
But I know that you understand.

I'm grateful for the days that pass.
I believe how powerful prayers are,
and God answered mine.

Great things happened and accomplished.
It keeps me stronger, happier and more thankful.
I'll be sharing some with you from time to time.

Let me say "Hello!" to your blog visitors.
Thank you for dropping by.
Hope life had been great for you too!

I'll see you again this week!

Love,

A Woman Remembers

What Life Had Been

For weeks, my Facebook and my blog had taken a backseat. I miss visiting blogs, joining online contests and getting updated with Facebook friends. The only thing I did online is to work on my online projects.

My time was well-engaged on family activities, summer classes, school preparations, and a lot more!

My sister had also given birth to an angelic little baby boy. I spend time assisting her in taking care of her new baby.

Congratulations to my sister and my bro-in-law! I wish baby JABE a life full of love, health, happiness and more!

Welcome to the world, baby!

Amidst all these "busyness", I thank God for the wonderful blessings!

Have a great day everyone!

The Beauty of Being Busy

"To fill the hour -- that is happiness." -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Whew! It's been a week filled with intensity! No, it's not because of the recent Japan earthquake and tsunami. (My prayer goes out to those affected by the devastation).

I am living my life in ‘tightly scheduled half-hour chunks’.

Since last week, I can only manage to sleep for just 4-5 hours a day, but I don't feel like complaining. That's good enough for me. In between working for clients and accepting another online project, there are kids and family matters to attend to. Kids need to review for the exams. I still work for clients on weekends (because I need to), yet still manage to accompany my daughter to her ballet class and spend time with my family.

Severe headache and my son getting sick was the worst. It's sad that he got sick during exam week. It's okay even if he won't get to review for the exams as long as he fully recovers from his sickness. Good thing, the school allowed my preschooler to take special exams.

I'm not caught up being busy doing worthless things.

I am enjoying my full plate.

Yet, some things had taken a back seat. There's a blog that needs post, Emails waiting to be read; Facebook messages and interview requests waiting for a reply, and then, some more. But, I'm not neglecting nor ignoring it all.

I know each of us is busy with lots of things too. However, sometimes the term busy varies from person to person. We are all at different stages in our lives with different sets of priorities, but there is one thing that we all have that is the save - We have the same amount of TIME each and every day.

I'm not busy being busy. But then, I'll be long-term busy. For the next couple of weeks, we'll be preparing and finalizing a big day, and then off for a big move (probably).

Transitions. Changes.

I feel good I didn't let time simply slip away from my finders. My time and my energy aren’t wasted. I am busy making the most of my time and this is one beauty of being alive!

This is how I live my life and I am happy living it to the fullest!

Just thinking, do you ever wish you have more time?

Year 2010 Revisited

Cheers to a great New Year!

As year 2011 starts, I look back and remember events, experiences and moments that shaped my year. I am grateful for all the simple, yet extraordinary things... the good and not-so-good things, the small and big moments, and everything else! Minor disappointments and jealous-haters doesn't matter, they made me more understanding and stronger instead.

2010 moments

In random order:

weekends at Shangrila Plaza mall
new online friends and acquaintances
kids new big school, St. Gabriel International School
first ballet performance at Shangrila Plaza mall
first outbound learning with Lakbay Kalikasan at Clark, Pampanga
visited Bacolor church, Nayong Filipino and Clark Museum
Skylah choreographing a dance number for the Grade 1 girls
kids excellent grades and
being top 1 in class for two quarters
Brent's mini-recital surprise performance on-stage
kids winning moments
kids magazine exposures
numerous winnings - online and offline, local and international
lots of freebies!
paid blog opportunities
food treats from my sis and bro-in-law
winning at Century Tuna with photo-op with Derek Ramsay
Skylah's graduation from pre-school
Brent's moving up ceremony and
his first poem on stage!
Clarity's White party
a fun-filled day at star city with my family
mommy blogger's cowboy party
Halloween party at Riverfront
flowers and gifts from Nido Fortified 
kid's friends birthday parties
start of Skylah's ballet classes
the big move! condo-living!
swimming at the clubhouse
sister and bro-in-law's new condo unit
sister's pregnancy
sister and bro-in-law's Red and Black-themed wedding
reception at Pan Pacific Manila
more online full-time projects
more $$ earnings!
sweets and chocolates fullness!
celebrating kid's 6th and 4th birthday celebration
Batangas getaway with the family
boat ride to Sampaguita beach
Family vacation at Baguio City
the Paramore concert at MOA concert grounds
family celebrations at SIS Dampa Macapagal
sales! SM Homeworld, Toy Kingdom and Richwell trading
kid's unique Halloween costumes
SGIS UN Celebration
Skylah's hawaiian dance, Jalysa's Thailand dance and
Brent as Philippine flag bearer
SGIS performace in Alice's Christmas Adventure
family Christmas celebration
Ballet Philippines' Swan Lake at CCP
a room filled with books and toys
Funranch and Funranch good grade rewards
my husband's new Sony Ericsson phone
movies and movie tickets
new school service
Grendha sandals and fitflops at Bambu outlet store, Paseo
"pasalubongs" from sis and bro-in-law's Singapore trip
Philippine National Election
new Philippine President!
more international clients
watching Survivor Philippines celebrity edition
beyond happy at 31
Facebook and blog winnings
Facebook character profiles cartoon invasion
April magazines grand slam
laptop bag, Hedgen bag
fitflop and Cushe shoes
Globe tattoo and Smart broadband
new PLDT line and PLDT DSL
getting to work anywhere!
Wi-Tribe 3G
photobooks, prints and great deals from Artscow
beauty loots -shampoos, Maybelline, Garnier, L'oreal and Neutrogena
increased credit limit
renovated 3rd floor Paco house
Brent's growing Ben10 collection and
his PSP games addiction
first referral from Odesk
redeemed items from SM Advantage card membership points
enjoyed lots of pizza deliveries!
Paypal transfers
Christmas stockings at Shangrila Plaza mall
ice-scrambles addiction
photoshoot at LaMesa Ecopark
registered mails from the post office
credit card freebies - Starbucks and GCs
Tagaytay roadtip
Nido's Proud to See the Difference billboard 
living the life that I want
family get-togethers
happy moments with my family
kids achievement
smiles and laughters, 
peace and serenity
... and a lot more!!!

I am truly grateful for this blessed life.

This 2011, I will leave behind all negativisms of the year 2010 and carry with me the hope and positive vibes of the New Year.

Cheers to the smiles, laughters, changes and new adventures that year 2011 would bring!

Happy New Year everyone!

Beyond Happy @ 31

La Vita è Bella
La Vita è Amore!

Another year of my life has passed and it had been an eventful year.

Thank you for the greetings -family, relatives, online friends, blogger friends, mommy friends and acquaintances, Facebook friends, former officemates, schoolmates - from across the seas to the farthest continent.

You filled my mail box with emails, my cellphone with messages and my Facebook wall with your greetings. Each simple messages and wonderful wishes made the day special.

Thank you also to those who silently wished me a "Happy Birthday!," to those who I didn't expect would greet me, and to those who remains anonymous.

Thanks everyone for taking time out of your otherwise busy day
To stop for a minute, left me a message and say
... I wish you a very “Happy Birthday”!

Thank you to everyone who remembered...
you are all appreciated, forever treasured 
and cherished as priceless. :)

I am not just a year older, but a year better! I am grateful for all of the experiences that have taught me to be a better and stronger person.

My life is wonderful and I know I am blessed. Days won't always be good, but I won't complain. It's not without troubles - I have obstacles too - but I can still see the beauty of it. 

I look forward to the promise of many more amazing experiences and good times in the year that follows!

I am beyond happy!

"This is the day the LORD has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalm 118:24

Loving December, Turning 31

I love December month!

It has always been and will always be my favorite month. This mornings, I started reading My December Love Affair, and I fall in love over and over again.

[turning 31]

On December 2, I'm turning 31! I somehow wished to freeze myself into being 30 forever. But now, I don't cringe at the thought of saying goodbye to the age of 20-ish... I simply look forward to the life of being 30-ish!

I am stronger and wiser because of the past. I appreciate all the people who walked with me and played a huge part in my life.

Oh, and I'm saying thank you for this wonderful post Birthdays Galore! written by a good friend.

As I turn 31, I look forward to more wonderful lessons and experiences, more smiles and happiness, more years to cherish and treasure... seeing more sunsets and amazing sunrises!

[looking forward to]

+ the birthdays of my sister and my nephew
+ cousins' birthday
+ Christmas day and celebrations
+ family-reunions
+ gifts and gift-giving
+ my daughter's ballet presentation
+ my kids's Christmas program
+ New Year celebrations
+ ... and a whole lot more!