No Goodbyes, just good memories

IT HAS BEEN more than a week since I bid farewell to my second home for almost four years... It was a tough decision to make, but nothing is permanent in our life---except for the strong relationships that we build with our family and friends.

A jar full of happy memories... I'll miss everything about them. I'll miss TEAM A+.

"Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with their heart and soul, there is no such thing as separation"

I will surely miss all of the things I get used to in the past four years; the good and the bad experiences will not be forgotten, but whole-heartedly treasured forever.

To be honest, I never planned to make teaching a career after college. Even though I graduated from PNU, which specializes in teaching education, I really wanted to pursue a career as a health professional. 

But my feet led me to this institution, not because I wanted to be with my beau, who is also working in the same school, but because fate told me to do so. 

And I fell in love with teaching.

Won't forget my first advisory class, Grade 4-Galilei---'coz they are the sweetest!

Was challenged during my second year of teaching as I handled these bright kiddos. They made that year 'one-of-a-kind' for me, I'll never forget them---the first batch to call me 'mama' :)

A crazy, roller-coaster ride with these kids on my third year of teaching. The noisiest batch ever! But I love them :)

Never thought they'll be the last batch... Kids with different attitudes, they taught me the true meaning of loyalty, trust and friendship :) 

No one can claim to be the perfect teacher, but I know that I've given my best and I'm happy that I've touched so many lives in the process. But it's not always sunny days for me, a lot of trials also come my way. At first, I was so down thinking how could such people say those things to you, without really trying to get to know the real you? It was tough. It was like a nightmare. 

Good thing there were some people who managed to stood beside me and tell me that "it's okay, you're doing great" :) I just love them. Then I realized that you can never really pleased everybody. But as long as you have something good and special in you, there's nothing to worry---because it will shine through. 

Our very supportive Assistant principal, Mrs. Nimfa Mirandilla. She never fails to boost my self-confidence by giving positive feedbacks on the things that I do. However, She also sees to it that I recognize my mistakes so that I could do better in the future. I'll miss her words of wisdom. I'll miss her sweetness.

Our Elementary department head, Mrs. Lala Azucena. A very strong woman with a very youthful heart. I hope I could still find someone like her who never sees herself as someone with a position, but always look into situations as if she's one of us. I'll miss the food she always shares with us. I'll miss her yummy spaghetti with boiled eggs as toppings.

Our High school department head, Mrs. Yani Custodio. I think the space here won't be enough to describe this woman and how she influenced me a lot. I think she's the most tactless person I've ever met! haha! But seriously, I'm very blessed to have known her because she made a lot of difference to my character. I'll miss her calling me "gra". I'll miss her loud voice and pinches whenever I'm late.

The High school Team. They are best, I must say. Most especially to the pretty moms, Mrs. Santos (or Ginang) and Mrs. Natanawan (Nanay Jo)---You don't know how grateful I am because you accepted my crazy character. Thanks for all the advises and for the help you extended to me, to everyone of us. Both of you are my role models--strong and intelligent women. I'll miss your voices. I'll miss your giggles. I'll miss your sweetness.

Now, as I step forward and search for new experiences and wild opportunities, It made me extremely sad to leave these people who believed in me and trusted me more than I trust myself. But the sadness was covered by happiness when they organized a little surprise for me. It melted my heart. 

The Invitation! They totally exerted some efforts here tho. :)

They prepared a simple program for me! After seeing the set-up, I bursted into tears! *sniff*

Simple presents for me :) They maybe small and simple, but for me---all of these, are more than enough ^_^

Often than not, I get frustrated because I always think that I'm under-appreciated by the people I cared-for. But to my surprise, most of them appreciated me beyond my expectations. After reading their letters, I was so touched by the fact that I became their confidence booster and source of strength and positivity. I never meant to play that part, but I'm happy that even without actually knowing it, I did something great for them. 

I maybe sad at first, but now I know this isn't goodbye---but just good memories. I will not be leaving them, but I'll just be going somewhere else so that I could share more stories with them and we'll all grow stronger and more fruitful than before. 

In the end, I would like to thank those people who supported me and pushed me to aim for success, who accepted my flaws and took time to understand that I'm still in the process of re-inventing myself. My co-teachers, friends, students and heads who treated me as their daughter, mother, sister and friend---I will never forget you guys. 

TEAM FACULTY! ^_^

And to those who tried to pull me down, shake my self-esteem and shatter my ego, you didn't succeed---but I still want to thank you all for trying :) I may not be where I am right now if you haven't pushed me to my limits and see how far I can go. You just proved to me that I'm more than what you think and led me to a road where I can explore new horizons. I have only one wish for all of you: Don't spend your time ruining the life of others because of your own insecurities, seek self-improvement---you can still fix yourselves. 

Remember this: Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.

Make sure to chase new opportunities and go beyond your limitations, but don't ever forget the good people you meet along your journey. God always answers our prayers, but sometimes you just have to wait :)

Good memories are tucked inside my pockets and now I'm ready to explore ^_^

---Miss G. 

BESTIES: Empowering women

I SECURED my own copy of the talk-of-the-town book, Besties, last month (Thanks to Mr. J :) ) and I was deeply moved by its contents. 

At first, I thought the book is just about the personal stuff in the life of the two it-girls: fashion, make-up, love life. Then as I browse the pages when I got home, It's more than that. 

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The "It-girls" grow up

The book has 169 pages, with a few excess pages of course, written by the "it-girls"---Solenn Heusaff and Georgina Wilson, also known as Sos & George. It was wrapped in tight plastic when I grabbed it from a book stand. I paid 195 pesos at the counter and it's all mine. :)

#bestiesbookclub :) 

"You think you know, but you have no idea..."

Celebrities like Sos and George never fails to fascinate me, their perfect hair and make-up, toned bodies, stylish clothes and wonderful life. I have a handful of names written on my fave celebrities list---and these two ladies are included. 

Basically, I wanted to know more about their life in the spotlight. However, in this book, I found respect beyond their "it-girls" tag. 

SOS & GEORGE can be described in a very simple word: FAB.

The book is filled with pictures of the Besties themselves. It is a conversation-type style, wherein Sos & George exchange thoughts about certain topics. In nine (9) chapters, the girls discussed with pure honesty and confidence the truth behind their perfection as celebrities. 

Chapter One is my favorite chapter, where they dealt with the most amazing yet self-esteem shattering word for every girl that I know: Confidence.

Super candid shots! Solenn is really wacky :)

The fact that they posted pictures about their photoshopped bodies and no make-up faces were honest evidences that they are just one of us---girls with flaws and imperfections. It is true that as you grow older, you'll tend to accept that you're not perfect and eventually love yourself as it is. In the past years, I struggled with many insecurities, to the point that I become too hard on myself! It's as if I wanted a complete overhaul of my entire being. At present, I think I become mature enough to accept the real me and love myself even more :)

To all the bashers: You're so perfect guys! *sarcastic* LOL!

Haters gonna hate, forever!

Why spend your precious time with haters?! You should be focusing on how you can improve your current self. But I guess there should always be moments of self-assessment, take a look at yourself---see if your bashers are somehow telling the truth or just plainly voicing-out their own insecurities to you. :)

Dealing with bullies! Remembered a few during my highschool years..haha!

Finding your own personal style invloves experimenting...

If I am to plot my own fashion timeline, I'll be very happy on my drastic improvement! Even now, I have my good and bad days. Well, I'm more like Solenn who prefers a comfy wardrobe rather than a sacrificial stylish attire. But I always see to it that the clothes fits me well and at the same time looks fashionably acceptable to others.


The clothes that we wear defines us, so we must be very careful in choosing the right pieces. I've known people who doesn't even think before they sport an attire and I'm recommending this book because the two girls shared several fashion tips and hacks that are very useful. :)



Makeup is a tricky art...

Most of us girls enjoy the wonders brought about by wearing makeup. Yes, it masks the imperfections and makes us more confident with how we look. I think all celebrities, especially models, have the perfect features that makeup only enhance. But I was really surprised when I saw that me and George (as well as Sos) shares common skin dilemmas!


There's nothing wrong with wearing makeup, and personally I think that it is a must (esp. for grown-up ladies) because it boosts self-confidence. The tricky part is on how to apply it just right, without looking like a drag queen after..hehe. Chapter three of this book provides an excellent primer on makeup 101, of course with the makeup artist herself---Solenn Heussaff. :)

Be Proud. George is still pretty with or without :)

"Healthy doesn't have to mean bland" - Erwan Heausaff

I'm a certified gastronome and I'm at my best whenever food is around! And because I'm also a nutritionist, I can be very conscious on my food intake. I love that Sos' brother, Erwan, shared excellent recipes and amazing life diet rules! (He's one of my favorite blogger, thefatkidinside.com)


Don't settle for the common flavors, experiment and try different foods every now and then.

Tried the ultimate smoothie, it's like heaven :)

"A little sweat ain't never hurt nobody"

I've been following Sos on instagram and I'm so impressed on how dedicated she is in keeping her body fit. I personally can't go to the gym on a regular basis, it's quite pricey too :( Good thing they included a detailed exercise routine that is very easy and can be done in the convenience of our own home.

Addicted to squats and planks :)

"Travel is the only thing that you can buy that makes you richer" - Anonymous

I'm always conscious about spending too much on a trip that I end up cancelling plans for it. It's just sad that travelling is always second on my to-do list! But as I read the Besties travel rules, it gave me an urge to wander more often, It's really good to travel with family, even exciting if done with friends!

Always travel in style :)

The recipe to a happy salary!

I'm a poor saver, especially during my first two years of working. Luckily, I managed to open a savings account. I keep that account for super emergency stuff only (I pray they won't happen) and for future things...you know :)

It's good to know that even those people, like Sos and George, who earns a lot really bothers to save their earnings. It doesn't matter if your salary is small, as long as you have the determination to do it!

As your salary increases, your expenses build-up too!  :(

It's your own body, so be responsible for it...

I'm raised in a very conservative environment, I cover my eyes in every kissing scenes -_- (what a shame)

Well that was before, I think my parents trust me a lot now, especially when it comes to decision-making. I also believe that I can handle myself, that I'm mature enough to make good decisions and judge situations better than normal young adults. I love how these two girls shared their thoughts about love and sex. People judge them as 'bitches and whores' because of the life they're living, but actually they are not like that---they do what is right and they respect their bodies.

Learn when to say 'yes' and when to say 'no' :)

"You know you've landed a real friend when you can get through difficult things with them" - Sos & George

At last, timeless friendship :) It's a struggle for me to find the real one. I'm a moody person, with weird interests and a bitchy mouth (say things straight and with no apprehensions). I have a couple of super close friends who stood by my side through very rough times---and I love them *cries* I have moments that I get jealous when a friend talks to someone instead of me (esp. on important stuff), which I really want to change.

Sos & George's friendship is something to admire, because they set such a good example. I hope they'll keep on inspiring women in the future!

The pretty ugly and the princess of whales---they are so lovely!

I also have my own bestie :) I don't know if the feeling is mutual, but what I know is that as of the moment, she's the only one (aside from Mr. J) who can bear with my 'weirdo' personality. I'll definitely miss  her soon :(

So madam, if you're reading this post, I love you so much and you'll always be my super friend! I'll be always right here to support and kick the asses of those who will try to piss you off! Haha! Stay meldi ---it's our little secret!

With my Bestie :) @jam_red

It's not too late to grab your own copy girlfriends! Be empowered, Be proud to be a woman!

Always be the best version of yourself :)


Much love,

--Miss G.

***all photos taken form Besties book by Solenn & Georgina***

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Being a "Ninang"

I NEVER IMAGINED that being a godmother can be as thrilling as this :)

It took me almost 24 years to finally experience what is it like to have an ina-anak. Several years ago, I was asked by a highschool classmate if I could be one of his daughter's godmother. And because I'm not that close to him and don't even know his wife personally, I refused to accept it.

They were saying that it's 'malas' or bad luck on my part, refusing to be a godmother to a child. But for me, being a godmother is more than the title and the material things that you can give to the child. It's a big responsibility, which I'm sure I still can't handle that time.

In this post, i just want to share my thoughts on how my first godparenting experience made me realize things and achieve self-fulfillment.

Keep on reading :)

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My first ever godchild is this super cute baby girl---Baby Naomi  :)

#babylove :) She's always happy and playful, loves to stretch her arms & legs and when she smiles--her eyes disappears!

My second godchild is this handsome baby boy, Baby Zach :)

#handsomebabyboy :) The son of my former student, and I think he's quite big for his age---big baby!

At first, I was sooo nervous, I don't have the slightest idea on how this 'Ninang-thing' works!

Questions haunt me like:

Should I give them expensive gifts every now and then? Should I always be physically present, observing them as they grow? Should I take part on major decisions concerning them? (I think that so intrusive) Or should the title remain as it is, and just be visible on special celebrations like birthdays and Christmas only.

I THINK she'll grow much like her ninang, a total fashionista!

Before the naming ceremony (Baptism), a church personnel briefed us about our roles as Ninangs and Ninongs. Good thing they have that, because is there such thing as a complete guide in godparenting? <I think google can give us something to start with tho :)>

And as I perform a new role in my mature life, I started to realise several things that I want to share with you :)

#1 Make sure to love the child as if she/he is your own son or daughter.

WITH HER MOM. Baby Naomi, or yomi, is the second niece of my boyfriend, that's why I get to see her quite often than Baby Zach.

# 2 More than his/her godparent, you should be a friend---one of his/her support system.

THAT FACE :/ She loves to play and meet new people. Her game of choice---Hair-tugging  T_T

#3 See to it that as he/she grows, you're able to guide him/her to be a God-fearing and morally-upright individual

SERIOUS BABY ZACH. I hope someday, I could visit Zach more often, especially during his growing stage---listen to his stories and share my personal experiences with him, so he could learn from them.

#4 As much as possible, be physically present.

MY NEW SELFIE BUDDY. I'm pretty sure that I could watch over Baby Naomi as she grows, because she's living near my place. *sigh* I hope I could to that with Zach tho.

#5 As his/her godparent, you should be a role model---in words and in actions.

WITH HIS MOM. I admire this strong lady so much, and I believe she'll raise her child well. But I promise to play my part in his life story too---more closely in the future. :)

Whew! Being a Ninang is really not a simple thing. There's so much responsibility anchored in that title. But I guess, nobody can ever go wrong by following a simple rule: Love your godchildren :)

I'm expecting more inaanaks in the future, haha! But for now, I'll focus with these two awesome creatures ^_^

Are you also a proud godparent? Share your stories with me, I'll be happy to hear them :)

Pretty ninang here,

--Miss G.

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Ten Things to accomplish in your 20's

This year has been, quite so far, a good year for me. Although there were moments of self-doubts, troubles and fears---Blessings were enough to shed some light on my darkening path and helped me seize unexpected opportunities :) 

As I turned 24 last January, I realized several things---the things I should be working on in my 20's, or let's just say I MUST accomplish right now because I'm already in my mid-20's :)

Now let me share with you my list of the things that you need to accomplish in your 20's. I hope that as you read you'll check yourself if you already done these things, still in the process, or haven't started yet. I personally believe that these stuff can help young adults, like me, to better face the challenges of a mature life.

Are you ready? :)

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# 1: LAND ON A STABLE JOB

If you're already into it, then that's good! But if not, better look for it now! And how will you know if the one you have now can be classified as a stable job? well, you can ask yourself questions like: (1) Is my salary enough for myself and the family I'm supporting? (2) Can I still save with the money I'm receiving right now? (3) Does this company I'm working with give me good benefits, like insurance, health card, etc.? (4) Will this company still survive after 10 to 20 years? (5) Will I receive a progressive salary and benefits? (6) Does this company provide me professional growth? 

Above are just some of the questions that will let you assess your stability. If your answer are mostly NO, you better take some actions. 

#2: ESTABLISH MATURE RELATIONSHIPS

Enjoyable relationships will keep you going for several years, but mature ones will let you surpass greater challenges in the decades to come. Seek for great friends with big hearts and open minds, the ones you can be with in times of overflowing happiness and even amidst of self-trouble. In terms of romantic relationships, start quitting the I-love-you-'coz-you're-hot, I'm-so-needy-give-me-your-attention and Let's-be-together-until-things-get-sour attitude in LOVE!

You can try to be more like a "giver" than a receiver of love. Look for a partner---not a display BF or GF, personal assistant, man of your dreams, hottest girl in town or the richest catch---because that's for kids, and you're no longer a child. The stronger the relationship you build, the better person you will be. A mature relationship bound with love, friendship and understanding will surely bring out the BEST in you. :)

#3: SPEND MORE TIME WITH YOUR FAMILY

Especially your PARENTS. You are not getting younger buddy and so are they! Don't waste the daily chances, greet them like, "How's it goin' old folks?" haha! Kiss them, hug them and make them feel that you love them to the moon and back! I assure you, those actions will mean more than any material thing that you can offer them. Spend some quality time with your family, go out and make some good memories---because after all you'll be seeing  less of them once you get married. :)

#4: IMPROVE YOURSELF

Actually, It's a battle against all of your imperfections. I know, I know, as the saying goes: "Your imperfections make yourself unique". However, there'll always be some room for improvement, which you should take advantage of. Assess yourself and look for the things that you don't quite like or have difficulties dealing with. I also have a handful of imperfections, physically, emotionally and socially. 

Before, I even cursed my hair because it's very unmanageable, in the same manner that I hated my nose because it's not pointed :( We all have our shares of self-hate. But every problem has a solution, so every imperfection can be perfected :) Just don't get too lousy in doing you homework! read, look for answers, try different solutions and you'll soon be on your quest to greatness! Believe me, once you've finally remedied all your wounds, you'll be more confident to face the world. :)

#5: PURSUE YOUR PASSION

The things that you love doing, are the things that will make you happy :) Don't settle for a job because you earn a lot from it, it must be because it is your passion and it makes you fulfilled. Sometimes, the comments / suggestions that we get from others plays a big role on our choices. We become conscious on the things that other people may say about us, that's why most of us tend to play safe. Just remember this: As long as you're not hurting anyone with the things that you want to do, then must continue doing it :) 

#6: TRAVEL AND BUILD GOOD MEMORIES

Now is the perfect time to take a road trip, go out-of-town and discover different places. As young adults, we tend to focus more on saving money to purchase the latest gadgets or buy the trendiest apparels. As we invest on material things, we forget to collect the most important aspect of life—memories. Once you travel, you’re building good memories with the people you are with. It doesn't matter if your trip is near or far, by land or air, and even by foot! As long as you are with your best buddies---you’ll definitely arrive at the best destination ever J

#7: ACCOMPLISH YOUR BUCKET LIST

As I take a look at my own bucket list, I’m a bit disappointed for not accomplishing even the first half of it?! *sigh* But I make a promise to fulfill them before I reach my 30’s! yay! J A bucket list contains the things, simple or complicated, that you want to achieve before you die. Wait a minute, that’s a bit rude! Well you can change the goal and make it “before you get married” or “before you get old”---that’s better! Your list may include simple things like planking in the middle of a street or something extreme, like skydiving! Whatever it is, as long as the things listed will make you happy and improve your self-esteem, you should go for it.

#8: START A SMALL BUSINESS

An extra work won’t hurt you and a little income will help a lot on improving your finances. You don’t need to dream big because a simple home-based store or online business is a pretty good start. I have ventured in two small businesses already, one is a home-based baking shop which offers cupcakes, brownies and other confections, and the other one is an online beauty store that sells Korean beauty products. 

To be honest, it was quite difficult to operate even a small business if you are working full-time. That’s why I already gave up my beauty store and take a break on my baking business as well. Now, I started accepting small orders of cupcakes and cakes from our neighbors, relatives and friends J If you are interested in putting-up a small business like mine, I would suggest that you focus first on the things that you love doing, something that you are interested with. From that I can assure you “success is OTW” J

#9: SAVE YOUR MONEY

I’ve been working for years now, and I must admit that I’m not really good at saving my earnings L  But as I grew older, I’m getting more concerned about the future and the importance of having ample money for future emergencies and later on for family life. Our world is full of temptations, and if you get deprived during your childhood years in terms of material things---you’ll surely get hooked on the shopaholic life of most working individuals. 

Basically, there’s no problem in spending your money by buying stuff that you need and of course want, besides, it’s your hard earned money! Well the problem comes in once you spend too much, then at the end of the day you’d find out that there’s not even a single cent inside your wallet.  I’ve experienced that very tough moment and believe me, it was hardL. Now, you may start saving by opening a savings account at the bank of your choice. You could also opt for the traditional technique of saving by using a piggy bank. After all, any method can be utilized as long as the desired result, which is to SAVE, is met J

#10: LIVE A HAPPY and HEALTHY LIFE

“You’ll reap what you sow” ---this line is actually true! The things that we do to ourselves today will affect our whole scheme in the years to come. If you eat right and exercise today, you’ll definitely not worry about your physical health in the next decades. If you involve yourself in pleasant relationships at present, for sure a healthy emotional and social being will be expected from you. If you are currently into intensive reading and graduate studies, there’s no doubt that you’ll enjoy an active mind even in the elderly stage. 

Being healthy must be holistic. You should live a healthy life, meaning a healthy mind, soul and body. Actually, being HAPPY is really the best medicine because it takes away all the strains in life that makes you age faster! It is also a preventive mechanism that could help you live a long and satisfying life. :)

ONE OF THE GOOD MEMORIES I must kiss goodbye :) Being a teacher to these kids completed the first four years of my 20's, and I'm extremely happy and proud of that.

Quite a long list huh?! :) Thank you for bearing with me 'til the end! I hope you've learned something from my list and hopefully apply them in your own lives :) Remember: Always be the best version of YOURSELF!

--Miss G.

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Thanks for reading! If you want to ask or share something, feel free to post a comment below :)

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