[Project FeeTrail December 2013]: Mascot and Me

For my December 2013, Project FeeTrail, I have a special guest: A Mascot.

It was my first time in Sky Ranch, Tagaytay. Nothing spectacular, really. When you come to think of it, Enchanted Kingdom is cheaper, especially when you buy the unlimited rides ticket.

But this event is not for adults because we brought kids in tow. I just couldn't resist having a photo with a mascot...of any kind actually. I'm more scared of clowns. I don't know why, but I feel like I want to punch them in the face.

This photo reminds me a lot, of what I've been reading lately. Enjoying the NOW. Being a worrywart practically since I gained my adult senses and during the recent events in our family, it's so damn hard not to worry. I may not look like it, but I worry about everything.

Now by looking at the photo, I am reminded not to take A LOT of things seriously. I read something in pinterest that "Anxiety happens when you have to figure out everything. Trust in the Lord for he has better plans" and that's exactly what I'm doing for next year. I need to trust more.

I hope you a had a good 2013. Thank you 2013 for being so kind.

[Project FeeTrail November 2013]: The reluctant blogger

Before you laugh let me explain.

I went to a Jenni Epperson book-signing event last year when this lady blogger approached me.

"Hi, I see that you're a blogger as well. Like naman my blog..." She said. 

I stared at her, still with a meeting-Jenni-Epperson-in-the-flesh high, and crammed for words for a reply:" Okay. How do I do it?"

I didn't know that bloggers now have a Like Page of their own under the category of a Personal blog. I thought Facebook pages are for businesses and public figures. 

"Do you have a card?" She asked. 

"I'm sorry I don't have one." 

"We have a bloggers group, you're welcome to join us". Then she handed me a card of a known blogging community. Unfortunately, I misplaced the card while I was walking towards the parking lot.

[Project FeeTrail October 2013]: If Cinderella was here, she wouldn't fit the shoe

So on my last post, we were at Liliw for a quick tour of the place because Kuya's wife was in town and will leave in a week for UK.

I don't really know what new feetrail shots that I will have for this month, until I saw this huge slipper on the side walk and decided that it'll be perfect for my project.

So there, that's my size 9 foot in a size 52 slipper. If Cinderella was in Liliw, she wouldn't fit the shoe. Read about my Liliw entries here and here.

Also, it's October 31, how's your October? Mine was a roller coaster. My friends know how much I love Halloween but I've been donning a different Halloween Celebration since last year though I would love to join my friends for trick or treating later. My friends' lady kid, Cheska, dropped by my office yesterday to show me her unicorn costume but too bad I had to be in Manila today.  Pictures please Faye & Frankie!

Happy Halloween!

( A scheduled post) 

[Project FeeTrail September 2013]: Skip at Sonya's, Step at Splendido

I didn't think I would have a new photo for my Project FeeTrail this month because we were supposed to go to Tagaytay for my mom's birthday but plans got cancelled, so when my wedding florist sister asked if I can join her for her for an ocular inspection in Taal for her two clients, I did not think twice and gave it a go! I've been itching for a quick little trip out of town, since my schedule is so hectic for the rest of the year, so this quick little trip excites me.

One of the fun things about working in the wedding industry is we get to check out places for an ocular inspection. We went to Sonya's Garden first, then to Splendido Taal Golf Club. We went on a cold, rainy, foggy Saturday and marveled at the location. Never mind that there is a new habagat that's on its way. Never mind that perhaps it wasn't such a good idea to go to Tagaytay that we can hear the whistle of the strong wind at the veranda of Yellow Cab restaurant where we had our stop over for dinner. Not only I was happy to make this quick little trip out of town, I also learned that Sonya's garden and Splendido Taal Golf Club is NOT in Tagaytay, contrary to search suggestions of the most reliable information site nowadays: Google.

[Project FeeTrail August 2013]: The day I stared Murphy’s Law in the eye and said: “Kebs”.

I was supposed to have a different feet shot this month, but I forgot to take one and because it was too sad. I still do not have the strength to write about it so let’s move on.

This photo was taken at a huge media related event that I spear headedly organized in behalf of the university. This is also the day that I would like to call: The day I stared Murphy’s Law in the eye and said: “Kebs”. I was running around all day making sure the sound system works, the videos play, ushers were giving the right directions, registration is ongoing, food and catering is being properly set up, the utilities team is doing their jobs and most of all everyone had something to eat. I was in the shadows most of the time, sneaking, making sure everyone is properly seated, and always on my toes for in case of emergencies. Yes, I was prepared.

Everything was totally planned for, knowing the OC that I am when it comes to organizing events. In fairness I like being on top of things, so that I know what my next move is if ever it didn’t pan out. In fact, I was already on my way to driving school to school, making calls when a representative from another sponsor organizer decided to get one important task, because they have already did it before. In all good faith, I gave the task to them.

Never mind that I had this gut feeling that makes me uncomfortable.

To make the story short, I delivered. They didn’t. And It’s supposed to be okay because there’s nothing we can really do than just push through. I just didn’t like it that they were the outsiders talking bad stuff like if they organized it, it would have been full. It was their job and just my guests showed up. They have the list, they didn’t call. I realized and learned how unprofessional people like to make excuses. I just don’t like it that some people who messed up their ONE JOB had the nerve to comment. I am even overlooking the fact that they were late in so many tasks. I also do not like incompetent people blaming others. I don’t mind being accounted for, for a mishap as long as it’s my fault. But that’s not really how it works in “showbiz”.  I’m glad people still showed up and I’m glad despite what’s going on behind the scenes, someone was praying for me.

Normally, behind the scenes panic would have gotten me. But this month was different because I also lost a colleague and friend (who likes to read my blog, by the way) in the most unexpected and horrible way I could ever imagine. So this little mishap will not get to me. This is not the end of the world. Life is short and precious. The faster we move on and let go, the better for everyone. And it's good to be surrounded and supported by tough, positive and professional people. 

Good thing, even though it was not expected and it was not how I planned it to be, my supervisor and our guests were pleased. What a relief. Thank God.

And despite all the mishap with working with some unprofessional people, I learned a lot. I took home a lot of lessons. I charged and banked it all to experience. I was just so dog tired when I came home that I fell asleep instantly on the couch while waiting for my next 7pm appointment for another event.

Since late last year, I’ve organized weddings, even a controversial funeral and now this. So yeah, I guess I really am an event organizer. 

[Project FeeTrail July 2013]: Befriend the Unknown

This month, I met my spiritual adviser for the very first time. I never really thought I would be the "holy" type, or someone wanting a spiritual adviser. I've always wanted to talk to a shrink, but then I think I need to talk someone on another level. I decided I want a spiritual adviser whom I can really be honest with. 

I needed someone to tell me where I messed up, help me understand on a whole new level. I know I wanted to get a shrink before, but it's expensive and because, hello...this is the Philippines. But other personalities I know that do have these kind of advisers, like Kris Aquino and one of my favorite bloggers, Cecile Van Straten. I did not get one to join a bandwagon, I got one because I needed it. And you just don't get someone for the sake of having one, you have to pray for it. And I did, sincerely.

She said she wasn't supposed to take any counseling sessions but something about me told her that matches the current project she's working with. And that meeting me was meant to be. I remember the first time I texted her, she was on vacation. I just told her to let me know when she is available and then few weeks later, while I was at the mall, I got a text from her that she is back from her vacation. After a month of trying to match our schedule, we finally made our first appointment. I got a spiritual adviser.  

So this photo captures the first time I traveled alone to meet a stranger. Although it is not too far, but the driving force that I have to go there is not based on meeting a beau or an out-of-town trip to meet with friends. I went there for myself.

I know some might want to do the same, but to truly experience it to the fullest is to start acknowledging that you need help, you are doing something about it and that you will have to have an open mind and  take action steps. Most important of all, you  will really have to strip down your walls and be totally honest about it. I, the queen of walls and trust issues, stripped down my walls and spoke in all honesty, because I did not travel alone this far just to fool myself and expect to hear some kind of validation.

[Project FeeTrail June 2013]: Journey to explore my faith

I almost forgot that I have to have a photo for my Project Feetrail this month.

Problem is, I've been to places, but it didn't made quite an impact on me. My Feet Trail project is to remind me and take me back to the feeling where I've been.  Then last Tuesday night, I thought about it and secretly took a shot.

This photo was taken on a rainy Tuesday night,  after I attended a Single Professional something. This is after I have agreed to a Bible study. Yes. After a month of procrastination, I have agreed to a bible study.

I'm on a quest to explore my faith this year. I actually remember telling few friends that I had problems with my next move in life because I believe I need counseling. I feel that I need to explore my faith and have a better connection and relationship with God. I'm not exactly religious, but God had bailed me out so many times and in the last year, He solved my problems for me that I feel that I need to shut up and let Him do his will for me.

I think I need to take care of my spirit. So yes, I am on a quest. I can't afford a trip to India to explore faith and prayer like Liz Gilbert, but I think I would like to try a similar path, something within my means and within the Philippines.

[Project FeeTrail May 2013]:At work where the Magic is

It was my first time to be at Enchanted Kingdom...for work specifically.

It was my first time to see where the administration building is, meet the Enchanted Kingdom President and be at his office for a quick shoot.

I remember, when I was working at a BPO, there's this call center agent who said he worked as a clown at Enchanted Kingdom even when his parents are stockholders of the amusement park. I heard he treated his entire team to a fun filled day at the park before he resigned.

I forgot what his name was, but I will recognize if someone would mention it to me. Turned out, he was THE SON of the current President of Enchanted Kingdom. When I met his father, the President, it was confirmed! He even looked like his son!

We got free entrance to the park to take a few snapshots but had to go back to the office because we are using an official vehicle. I was looking for a spot for my Project FeeTrail. I told my colleague about this little project that I have and he suggested that I take my trail shot at the entrance floor tile where it says Enchanted Kingdom!

So here it is!

Since I couldn't fit Enchanted Kingdom, I guess E.K. would do.

[Project FeeTrail April 2013]: Gratitude in lieu of a Wish

They say when it's your first time at a church, make sure to pray your 7 (or 9?) wishes for it will come true. I did that when I visited 7 churches before holy week and now it's the first time I get to visit the church of Pila, Laguna. I was covering for my sister's wedding gig event, but when I first had my moment to breathe a prayer, I did not wish for anything but said thank you to God. The day before the event, I had my make or break exam and it was no easy feat.

It took 3 hours for the deliberation, the comments were tough, I really thought I would be recommended to try again. After all, the exam was expedited and I chickened out and planned it on the next semester. Then I got shoved to do it way earlier. Somehow, I'm glad I did it.

I was asked to step out of the room for my three advisers to deliberate whether they should pass or recommend me to try again, and I was already saying my Hail Marys. This is why I can never join those reality show contests with crucial decisions being made on National Television. It really is too nerve wracking for me.

This year, I constantly prayed for calmness and I got it. While I was waiting for the results, I kept on consoling myself that if it did not turn out the way I wish it would be, it's the journey and not the destination and what's important is I will not give up.

But then, I passed, and I wish I could say I am over the moon, but I was just pretty calm and extremely thankful that I passed. There's something in me that did not make me swoon nor twitter blast something out of a giddy moment. I was just deeply humbled and thankful. I have a feeling that maybe, after experiencing death in the family, nothing can really top the level of happiness that I felt before. I used to be over the top happy, with eyes literally sparkling (like those of diamonds, says an ex-boyfriend, chos), and with a can't-shut-the-F-up smile. This major accomplishment is something that is supposed to level me up, but it humbled me down. That is why I dedicate my thesis to my late father and my inay (mother).

My Masteral Degree down to the process of me with my MS Thesis is a concrete proof of WHEN it's meant to be, it WILL be. I thought I would graduate in 2012, but it turned out I will be facing something bigger last year, bigger than my Masteral Degree that it just had to come first.

So now, I'm just really thankful. :)

[Project FeeTrail March 2013]: For once, Tagaytay for work

This was taken during the 3rd day that I am in Tagaytay. I was officially covering for Public Relations.

Funny story, few days ago, I was having a series of internal fit and mental tantrums that I really want to have a breather, a break, to be literally out of town. But I can't afford it, work comes first, plus I do have other commitments at home.

A day before  the 3-day conference, I was assigned to be the representative from our office. I would be spending the next three days in Tagaytay, this time for work. I was supposed to go with my boss, but she had an emergency so I was sent alone.

I've been meaning to spend some time alone, in a new location, without the guilt. And here I am in Tagaytay, first night I had the room all to myself.

The nice part, on my first night, I was with new people and we went out for a drink. We went to a bar, though there's really nothing special happened during that night, I just really appreciated the night out. I can't even remember the last time I enjoyed having a a cold beer and just listening to the band.

We went home at 2:30 in the morning and though I had to get up before 7am the next day, I felt recharged.

Funny, when you keep asking the universe, the universe listens and gives you what you want.

[Project FeeTrail February 2013]: Visita Iglesia in Bulacan

This is my Feet-Trail shot for the month of February 2013, my first time to be standing at the heart of Bulacan. I just assumed it to be the "Heart of Bulacan" because I am standing between the Cathedral and their Municipal hall.

I joined a Visita Iglesia tour of Bulacan and decided that it's going to be my feet shot for the month. It was not exactly my first time in Bulacan, because I've already been to Malolos with my friends who lives there.

This is also my first time to see a relic of the actual cross, in St. Martin de Porres church. It was the actual cross where Jesus was crucified, according to the speaker in behalf of the church. I also learned that the word "Tagalog" is derived from "Taga-ilog" and those from Bulacan are the first ones called Tagalog. It is also important to take note that, I think, all of their churches are near bodies of water, because back during the day, the mode of transportation of people is through a boat just to get to the church.

 As I was walking, lined up to kiss the relic, I kept thinking what wish I would want to ask for, given just a few seconds to feel and experience the relic.

But, by the time I got there, I spent my 5 seconds moment with relic just basically asking for forgiveness.


What interesting stuff have you learned recently? 

[Project FeeTrail 2013]: Wore my trusty flats for my first out of town coverage assignment

On my first month in my new job, I got my first out of town assignment: Cover an event in the House of Representatives in Congress.

While all my photos that I took are for work, I managed to take a quick shot for my second round of Project FeeTrail for 2013, after doing the project for the whole year of 2012.

I remember a photo similar to this shot when I took my March 2012 Project FeeTrail that I wrote about last year. I was wearing my pink ballet flats while covering an event in UPLB's auditorium and realized that I want these things (covering for events and writing about it) for the long haul.

They say, when you want something, just say it to the universe and it will make it happen for you.

A year later, here I am.

Officially.