TURNING 25: My doubts, fears, hopes and dreams

RIGHT NOW, I'm composing this post while my students are working on their hands-on activity. haha! Don't worry, I won't be finishing this here! I just want to start a few lines because I'm afraid that the thoughts might slip away...

Tomorrow, I'll be celebrating another year of my wonderful existence. As I welcome another year into my life, there are a lot of things that are floating inside my head---makes me have second thoughts sometimes, but helps me move forward and seize chances most of the time. 

Before I bid goodbye to my beautiful life @ 24, I want to share some thoughts that are bugging me before my big day. I guess you'll be able to relate on these as well, especially if you are sharing the same doubts, fears, hopes and dreams ^_^.

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~Doubtful of my choices~

Even when I was still in college, my parents never interfere with my choices. They would always give advises, but never impose the things, which they think is right, on me---they always let me choose...let me decide for myself. 

I become so independent because of that. Up to now, I still do the "choosing". I choose what stuff to include on my schedule; I choose when to go out or stay at home; I choose what career to pursue; I choose how to spend my life...entirely. But then, with all the choices that I've made, I'm still worrying...I'm doubtful of myself. 

Our choices shape our being. We are made up of every single choices that we make. Living your life is indeed a choice, that's why I seldom believe in destiny. Events unfold in our life because we made several choices. And with the things that I'm experiencing right now, I can say that I've made some wrong decisions, wrong choices. 

There's no one to blame but me, of course. I pity myself for doubting my own choices. But then I realize that "hey, why feel bad about your choices?" There's no bad choices, only good, better and best. Maybe, I have chosen only the "good" options, so I must work harder next time to have the "better" and the "best" choices. 

I believe that @ 25, I'll be better, instead of good, in drafting my choices *crossed-fingers* I have to put my doubtful mind into deep sleep and trust my decisions. I noticed that the more I consult God before making any choices, the better my choices become. So starting tomorrow, I'll lean more to God ^_^.

~Fear of Change~

How many times did I opted for change? Countless. 

A lot of big changes took place last year. Most of these changes were results of my choices. Actually, I'm a lover of change, that's why it is so ironic that I also fear change. If only change will bring us great things everytime, we will love to have it all the time. But that idea is far from the reality. SAD. 

I don't want to be stuck in my comfort zone, that's why I would always let "change" enter my door. Most of these changes are very simple, so I don't really bother welcoming them. But as I enter my quarter life, I'm hoping to make some big changes---which scares me a lot. I don't know if I will still opt for change or just be happy of all the changes I've experienced and stick to it---until the end. 


However, we all know that change is constant. Change is a necessity, it is something that we cannot remove from our system. All that's left to do is to accept change and use it for our own advantage. I must not fear change, but instead, be open and willing to accept change---because I know from now on, that there will be a lot.



~Hopes for a better future~

I am beyond blessed to have achieved a lot (I consider small accomplishments as great achievements) for 24 years. If I am to live a simple life, I think I can just go on like this forever. But of course, we are all hoping for something grand, not just for ourself, but most importantly for our loved ones. 


My hopes for the future are not for myself alone (though I would honestly admit that it's on ME first) but for all the good people whom I met along the way. It's not more on the financial aspect, but more on personality development, career progress and relationship stability. I am hoping for a better ME, in terms of character and attitude (because I know I'm still not a good person, really). I'm also hoping to be planted in a career that will give me incomparable happiness (which is very difficult for me to find because I'm a free-spirited woman). Lastly, stronger relationships for the years to come---because I want to be more connected, more involved and more inspired. 


Putting my hopes in God's will, as always. 



~Dreams in reality~

I am a certified dreamer. I have them all---in all shapes and colors. But since these are just dreams, they are far from being real---from being true. I have disappointed myself several times because I keep on failing in achieving my dreams. The course of events always took me on a detour, and I would always end up glued at the wrong side of the box. 


Why is it so easy to dream, yet so hard to make it a reality? 


Then, I would again realize that dreams will remain virtual unless you put actions to transform them into something that can be touched---that can be felt. Shall I say: "Dream and act at the same time!" A dream will remain as a dream without action. But a dream with action will turn into a reality :) 

So I won't wait for another year, I shall turn all these dreams into something real this year! Let us all make our dreams come true, just like in the fairy tales :)

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I doubt if I can finish grad school.

I fear that I'll be living away from my family soon.

I hope that this blog will reach more readers and inspire more lives.

I dream to be the greatest person I can be, to be able to serve God more. 

Getting rid of all my doubts and fears, I welcome hopes and dreams for this year, as I turn 25 ^_^

Much love,

Starting the year with DIDACHE

I want to greet everyone a HAPPY, HAPPY NEW YEAR! 

2015 has been a great year for me indeed. With all those sudden twists in my life, I can never be more thankful for all those blessings and great opportunities. But of course, it was also roses with thorns---things can't be so perfect. Happiness were stitched together with some of my regrets. Good times were clouded by some dull moments. 

Nevertheless, l think we should keep the good things along with the bad stuff and move on...move forward ^_^ Besides, God's blessings won't end on our rainy days. A lot to expect for this new year for sure!

And for this year, I'll be starting it right---each day with the words of God :) In this post, I just want to share short thoughts about how this tiny book did wonders for my life---it may change yours too. 

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DIDACHE (pronounced as dee-da-ke) is a Greek word for teaching. 

This book is a Catholic daily Bible reflection guide published annually by Shepherd's Voice Publication. The aim of this book is to basically encourage Catholics, as well as other Christians, to read and make use of the Sacred scriptures as guides to our daily lives.

I got the first copy of this book way back 2014. It was a gift given to me by a good friend and former co-faculty, Ms. Marilyn Lalunio. It was a great gift. It helped me make better decisions, changed how I look into things, and opened my mind in the significance of God's words in my daily experiences. It made me look into life more positive than before. 

In 2015, I haven't received another copy as a gift and I didn't bother to shed some cash and secure one. I went into my life as normal and life seems normal to me. I had some of the biggest changes in my life last year: I created my own blog, I got hired in a new workplace and I finally entered my final year in grad school. I received a lot, I experienced a lot, I thank God for all the blessings. But as the year progresses, some of the great opportunities turned out as regrets. They were great but it seems as if I made the wrong decisions. I lost some of my enthusiasm at work, as well as in my pursuit for a master's degree. I also got so frustrated because I wasn't able to post regular entries on this blog. Now, I don't know if I'm still blessed or doomed by my own decisions. Or maybe, I just lost my positive heart.

During the Christmas season, I received a very familiar gift. But this time, it's appearance was a bit different, but it is still the same great gift I received a year ago. That friend of mine again gave me a copy of DIDACHE for 2016. I was so ecstatic. I felt blessed the moment I unwrapped the present. Then, as the year 2016 commenced, I started my reflections with the words of God. It made me wished for great things no more, only for one great thing---a positive heart led by God. I believe that this year will be better than the previous because I'm now back to HIS words. 

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Are you lost? Are you always anxious? Are you worrying if this year will be good to you? Worry no more and let God lead your way and shape your decisions. Start your year with DIDACHE!

Let HIM increase in your life, then wait for God to surprise you!

"For the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world"

For the love of God,

Lessons learned from Miss Universe 2015 pageant

DECEMBER 21, 2015. I woke up early (I normally don't, especially if there are no classes, no work) just to catch the telecast of Miss Universe 2015, which is live via satellite. Oh yes, I'm such a fan of beauty pageants! I love girls who strut their stuff and prove to the world that they are beautiful, intelligent and with a good heart. 

Besides, this year's pageant will be a lot different. I'm eyeing our pride, Ms Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, as the next Miss Universe---my hopes are all in her. So I sit back, relaxed, and enjoyed the show. 

For some reasons, this yearly showcase of beauty, wit and confidence do not really stay with the people for a long time. For almost 40 years, (42 to be exact) we haven't snatched the crown back to us again. So after knowing who's the new queen, will just celebrate briefly (because most of the time we land on the runner-ups) then go back to our own personal businesses. 

But for this year, it was a hell different...

Miss Philippines, Pia alonzo Wurtzbach.

As I watched the pageant reach it's conclusion, my heart pounded wildly. I guess I'm very confident with Pia's answer in the Top 3 Q&A portion. She should win the crown.

Being the Miss Universe is both an honor and a responsibility. I will use my voice to influence the youth. I would raise awareness on causes like HIV. I wanna show the world, the universe rather,  that I am confidently beautiful with a heart.

And the moment that we've waited for arrived, finally. 

Miss USA bagged the second runner-up title. I'm trembling, while posting statuses on Facebook. This is our time, This time, the crown is ours. But when Steven Harvey announced this year's queen, my heart melted...literally. Miss Columbia took the center stage and waved to her fans and supporters. 

I don't know, but I guess I can't accept that we, Filipinos, were defeated...again. But I'm pretty sure that Miss Philippines is more deserving than Miss Colombia: the confidence, the attire, the answer...everything was close to being perfect. As the reality swallowed me, I accepted it, teary-eyed. 

But then, after several minutes, Steve Harvey announced something that changed the plot of this year's Miss Universe pageant. There was an honest mistake.

Miss Philippines did it. She is now Miss Universe 2015 ^_^

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If you are active in social media, this plot-twisted-pageant-drama was all-over the virtual world. Yes, the Filipino people rejoiced, We've waited for this moment for a very long time. But for the others, it was an embarrassing moment that they will never forget.

I wanna share the following thoughts about this twisted story. I think all of us have learned a few things about this year's Miss Universe 2015 pageant. 

"It is always a test of personality and character"

A competition, though friendly as it may seem, is still a competition. The girls go there, compete with each other, with a single purpose: To win the crown. However, the true nature of a person can be seen the moment he/she losses a certain battle. How will that person accept his/her defeat? 

As the turn of events took place, the different personalities of the candidates flooded the event hall. I personally believe that Miss Columbia, although broken by the shameful announcement, should have initiated sportsmanship and just accepted her defeat. I'm not saying that she shouldn't cried? but of course, she should've shown to everyone the true attitude of a beauty queen. 

On the other hand, I'm so glad for Miss Philippines, because she managed to think properly during the entire duration of the competition. I don't know if she was trained for that, but she held herself with pride up to the end. She was also very sensitive with the other girls, especially Miss Columbia---makes me admire her more. 

As for the other girls, all of them has their own opinions but I guess Miss Germany failed to keep her thoughts under her sleeves. But I'm so proud with the other girls who sympathized with Miss Colombia and at the same time rejoiced with Miss Philippines. :)

A priceless photo. Kudos to all the girls who celebrated with Pia :)

"It takes  a real man to accept mistakes he has committed"

Steve Harvey is not a nobody in the 'hosting' profession. But I guess everyone, because we are all humans, will commit mistake---that's inevitable. But for him to admit it in front of the camera, with all the millions of viewers watching the live telecast, that he did something wrong was bravery. Definitely, he has the balls for it. Now, he needs to face the self-proclaimed human beings around the world (duh) as they criticize him and make him feel as the most stupid person to end the year. (that's human nature, pathetic)

The most awkward moment in MU 2015 pageant.

It should always be 'I will be' and not 'I may be'

I can relate so much to Pia and her struggles in order to make her dreams happen. She tried and failed three times for the Binibining Pilipinas title, but she never surrendered. In the end, she emerged as the grandest winner. 

I even love her tweet after the unsuccessful fight of Manny Pacquiao:

Kalma lang guys, babawi tayo sa Miss Universe!

See?  If you will only claim it, in God's perfect time, you'll be able to achieve your dreams :) 

This shot captured everything :) Congratulations to us Filipinos, we won!

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In the end, with all the tweets, IG posts, Facebook statuses that swarm over the internet, one thing is for sure: The Miss Universe 2015 pageant, which had concluded a few days ago, will remain in us...for a long time. 

Confidently beautiful, with a heart...

*photo credits: lifestyle.inquirer.net / dailymail.co.uk / latintimes.com

New Life, New Family

I CAN STILL remember that day when I first set my feet on its grounds... A breeze of cold air made my nerves restless... Maybe it's not because of the air, but the feeling of excitement mixed with uncertainties---of not being sure of what will happen next, what to look forward to and what to be ready for. 

The surroundings were calm and reserve, as far as I can remember, that it restricts my breathing---I'm not comfortable staying in such a quiet place, it's as if something is about to happen. All of the faces were new to me, they display different kinds of emotion and their body languages are quite hard to decipher. But I think we do have one thing in common---we are all voicing this question inside our head: "I'm wondering, to whom will I get close to?"

Honestly, I'm not into making friends, and it was part of my decision for change: just to live a professional life and create casual relationships with my workmates. I've got my share of relationship failures before, and I don't want to repeat the mistakes that I've committed---shattered friendships because of stained loyalty and trust. I just want to have an ordinary life and maintain this peaceful working environment; To deal with things with less heart and more brains. 

Moreover, I am afraid that if I reveal my crazy character, people will tend to judge me. I cannot really explain how eccentric I am most of the time, and only a few people understand this attitude of mine. That thing I wouldn't wanted to spill in front of these new faces. And so the plan has been drafted and finally will be put into action---the start of the different me.

OUR FIRST official gala ^_^ They got curious about this super cheap buffet food hub, that's why I invited them to give it a try! 

And so the days progress, the place started to change, I started to feel more comfortable. and as I explore the new me that I'm discretely portraying, I met great people which blew off my cloak. I felt that they are good people, with different attitudes but can definitely get along with one another very well. Most of them are just like me, crazy and not so reserved. They enjoy the little things that I also enjoy, they made me feel that once again, I'm home. 

THIS SWEET soul sitting beside me is such a blessing :) I love him (err..her) to the moon and back! <where's Master Gerbert tho?>

That's the moment that reality, once again, struck me, hard. What if the same thing is happening again? What if the behavior that they are displaying aren't real at all? Questions like these bothered me, I hate to judge other people, but I just can't help but raise my guards and slap my face so that I could see the real thing.

However, I think God really blessed me this time. The people that I'm with now are really good people---loyalty, trust and respect really matters to them. And one of the most important thing: They accepted my crazy attitude ^_^ And so I gave in and become the old eccentric me. 

AND SO pigging-out became our regular bonding activity :)

YOU'LL ALSO FEEL BEAUTIFUL if you are surrounded by beautiful creatures---just like these peeps!

THE SQUAD!

I really owe everything to Him. I think He want me to realize that there are different kinds of people in this world. You can't  really find a place wherein everyone will like you and love you for who you are. And I guess, even if you find that particular place where good people seem to inhabit, you can't really be sure that all of them won't have negative things to say about you. But at least, they are trying to maintain a good relationship with you---and with that, you should be contented. 

And for what I have right now, I'm pretty happy with it. I believe I've got a handful of people who can be trusted with anything, and for me that's enough. What I'm into now is building a stronger relationship with them and creating good memories. I know that we cannot keep this happy vibe in steady stream, but for sure, we'll make it through the trials and revive the relationship that we've built. 

WITH MY GIRLS ^_^ They may have angelic faces but they've got the strongest hearts! 

WE ALWAYS love to party!--dress-up and dance all night long ^_^

I'm extremely pleased to be with these people, to be with my new family. And I guess, wherever life would take me, I will always go back to the moments that I'm with them---for they are my family. 

Don't be afraid to accept changes. Don't hesitate to build new relationships. Don't regret that you trusted someone. Don't let a new opportunity pass because of the negative memories you had experienced before. You'll gain the fruit of your perseverance, soon, from God. 

You are all in my heart, forever...

---Miss G.

I'm NO superwoman

You can do anything, but not everything...

WHEN I WAS still a student, time moves as if it is dragging itself...moving at a very slow pace. I'm always thinking about how things will be different once I started working---and I'm extremely excited about the whole idea. 

But what it's like now that I'm working 24/7?

Exhausted. Drained. Tired. Dead. Almost.

My first year as a working young adult was really challenging. I didn't expected that teaching will drain my bucket of happiness. But of course, youth brings out an extra dose of positive hopes which pushed me forward. 

Situations become lighter as workloads become easier. I get used to the routine after several years and eventually I felt happier. However, I got bored with my work routine---that's the time when I started looking for something that will add some challenge in my 'slowly-becoming-boring' life. 

And I went back to school.

I pursued my blogging interest. 

I opened an online shop.

lastly, I continued my baking business.

Oh yes. Now I'm fully-loaded with things to attend to everyday! But I'm happy about it. I felt like I'm making the most out of my single (but in a relationship ^_^) life because I'm achieving so many things in my 20's. 

But as I stretched my daily schedules, a lot of other things got compromised: my relationships, health, happiness, etc. It really takes toll on my personal and professional life. I was so dead-tired everyday. Now, as I write this blog post, my body is extremely aching all-over and I'm absent for work. 

As I lay down in my bed earlier, I gather my thoughts about this dilemma. I asked myself, "should I gave up on these things that I'm currently into?" And my answer surprised me---No, I won't. 

To give up or not to give up...

I will not give up on the things that I love doing. I think it is better to be preoccupied by a lot of things than do nothing at all. Perhaps, I lack time management. I tend to multi-task every time. I want to get things done all at the same time, which is very impossible 'coz I'm no superwoman. I set aside the fact that I'm only human and I need to rest and relax from time to time. I thought I can do everything. But juggling work + graduate studies + blogging duties + online business was really tiring that I can't even stop and appreciate the things  that surrounds me. I got consumed by the idea of self-improvement and becoming an independent and successful young woman. My body failed me. 

Because I'm an over-achiever...

I know that a lot of us would like to achieve great things before stepping into our senescence period. We have big dreams and big hopes for our lives in the future. We work hard to provide our needs and become ambitious because we thirst for success. 

I think there is nothing wrong in pursuing your dreams and aspirations. It just so happen that we all have our own limitations. Maybe a good advice would be to remain cautious of the changes that will take effect, as you step higher in your life's ladder. Do things little by little. Grab your life's trophies one at a time. 

Let us rest our bones...

Yes, I'm tired of working 24/7, I go to work from Monday to Friday, attend classes on Saturday and prepare materials for work on Sunday---with online selling in between. It is so exhausting, yet at the end of the day there is that feeling of fulfillment. A good lesson that I've learned from this is to value the importance of rest---we all need a good night sleep and some power naps everyday. ^_^

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Life won't wait for us, we need to run before the road ends. There are a lot of opportunities in every corner waiting to be realized. But sometimes, living a simple life is better, and being contented with the little things that we have brings out unparalleled satisfaction. ^_^

Taking things lightly starting today, 

---Miss G.

The Secret to a Happy Salary

ARE YOU STARTING to worry about the stability of your finances? Yes, you're working a lot, but at the same time you're spending a lot?!! I know how it feels :( and it is so frustrating when you're broke and penniless. 

I can still remember my first pay check. I could laugh right now, figuring-out how I managed to survive with that amount way back four years ago. My salary did increase drastically year after year, thanks to "G". However, whenever I look into my savings account---I promise, I could cry a river! :(

Luckily, through a lot of soul-searchin' (what? haha!), just kidding! I am now so determined to save a part of my income and manage my salary smartly. So, I'm gonna share my secret with you---the secret to managing your money well and saving for the future. 

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I think most of us enjoy shopping and food tripping. And since you can't get things for free, every transaction will involve money. And because you are having fun, it will be too late when you notice that you already slayed your wallet. Good for those people who has a strong self-control when it comes to spending. But for those who can't manage the urge of buying, well you should continue reading ^_^

The secret is very simple: You just need to divide your income into three: expenses, savings and recreation. In that way, you'll be able to limit yourself in spending too much on a single expense and will definitely force you to save. 

Before, I don't allocate a specific amount for savings, whatever amount that was left in my wallet after shopping or paying bills, will be directed to my savings account---and I regret for doing that before, You should be very specific in the amount that you want to save, as well as the expenses that you'll have, in order to avoid overspending. 

I call this strategy as the "Glass jar banks". You'll need four wide-mouthed glass jars with lid, paper, scotch tape, scissors and black marker. The jars must be clean and free from any odor. Make sure to attach a strip of paper on each jar.

You may now start labeling the jars! I decided to use three identical jars for my expenses, namely: monthly dues, personal bills and fun. The fourth jar is different, and this will house my savings. ^_^

The 'monthly dues' jar is for my monthly regular expenses, which i'll use in paying for my phone bill, dental checkup, groceries and graduate school tuition fee. Meanwhile, the 'personal bills' jar will deal with my personal hygiene necessities, makeups, transportation fare (going to work/school) and other maintenance stuff (vitamins/supplements, clothes etc.). I would buy basic apparels for my work at least twice a month, that's why I included that on my personal expenses. Moving on, the 'fun!' jar is for recreational stuff. When I lunch/dine-out, like in a buffet with my workmates or go out-of-town with my friends, this will be my source of money. Also, if I want to go shopping for new clothes, shoes or bags, or pamper myself in a salon---this will supply the cash. 

And the most important is the 'savings' jar. as much as possible I save at least 20 - 30 % of my income. I'm not getting any younger now, and good work opportunities won't be there forever :)

Aside from using my jar banks technique, these tips will help in monitoring your finances.

1. Set a budget for your expenses. Make sure you won't spend beyond the set amount and will focus on the things on your expense-list.
2. Save on your transportation and meal allowance. If you can walk instead of fetching a cab, better do it---it's exercise plus you'll save a few bucks. Packed-lunch and snacks will be cheaper than purchasing food from a store or cafeteria---healthier and tummy-filling choices.
3. Secure the basic pieces for the clothes and shoes. Whenever I buy these things, I'll see to it that they can be used in several occasions. I'm always up to the quality (so it will last longer) and re-usability (mix-and-match different pieces) of the garments and footwear.  
4. Always settle for things that will give you the best offer for your hard-earned money. 

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At first, it's very hard to break the routine of being an overspender. It's true that you should always enjoy the fruit of your hardwork. However, if you're now approaching the adulthood stage, then you should start preparing for bigger responsibilities and unexpected possibilities in the future. 

Life is too short, don't waste the time and enjoy every moment. However, Youth will not be with you forever, make sure to prepare for senescence as well. :)

Treasure every cent, because these are products of your sweat, 

---Miss G.

STRESS: The Uninvited Guest

FOR GOD SAKE, I beg you, please stay away from me...

I've been experiencing a lot of stressful things in my life for the past months. Work-related, grad school-related, family-related and even relationship-related---so in short, in almost everything! 

Work-related stress is quite easy to manage, because in my case, I don't really give up on workloads easily---I'm always up for the challenge of finishing every task on hand. However, The people who exist inside your workplace are like dementors---they will try to suck all the happiness that you've got and turn you into a lonely, worthless being. Well, I'm not saying all of them, maybe some, but still they're like fish bones inside your throat, which will be very difficult to spit out. 

Good thing I'm with a new family---my DLSU-D family! ^_^ Thanks for their super warm welcome!

For four years of working as an educator, I guess I was able to learn the strategies in dealing with these people. You just need to ignore them and things will go lightly. As for the pile of work loitering on your desk, make sure that you deal with them head-on! I would always prepare a "to do" list and group the work according to their complexity. I'll spend quite some time dealing with the hardest stuff, then gradually move to  the lighter tasks. It is advisable if you'll deal with it few days prior to the deadline, yes, cramming would be thrilling but you'll yield poor results in the end. Stress will enter once you started worrying about meeting the deadline. Do things one at a time and ahead of time ^_^

A good way of relieving yourself from work-related stress is THIS! hang-out with your workmates and eat out!

The school-related stress is very much connected with work. I always find it very hard to balance work and graduate school. Before I decided to take up my master's degree, I assumed that the professors will be quite understanding with their students---given the fact that they are working while studying. However, that scene was washed away from my 'hopeful' mind :( A lot of research papers were required from us, plus journals to read and synthesize, coupled with nose bleeding exams within and at the end of every modules...it was a nightmare. 

For a year, I've been literally 'crawling' just to submit all the requirements and pass the dreadful written/practical exams. Now I'm close to finishing my academics, with only a few units to work on for the next semester. But as I get closer to finishing this brain-racking pursuit of knowledge, the battle becomes tougher! And of course, this calls for the same technique: Do things early and never cram! 'coz I don't want to waste a single cent in my tuition fee ^_^

Dealing with one of the hardest subjects for me :( #ENTOMOLOGY with Dr. Rint

Family-related stress would be the easiest to handle. I'm blessed with good parents who are very supportive, and I thank God for that. However, there will always be that moment wherein you'll clash with your siblings, especially now that we are all grown-up---opinions bang on each other, your pride is always at stake. Since I'm the eldest, I always believe that I should be in full control of everything, that I sometimes forget the importance of listening to the opinions of my younger siblings. 

Communication is the key to a happier family relationship. Sometimes I fail to perform my obligations in communicating to my family, because I'm too busy with my personal things. But as circumstances arise, I can slowly see the importance of sitting down and have some nice chat among your parents and siblings. More talk, less misunderstanding! 

A 19-year old photograph  ^_^ It's me with my baby sister, Rose.

Lastly, the most emotionally-draining kind of stress, relationship-related. To be particular, what I'm talking about is the romantic relationship. I've been in a serious boyfriend-girlfriend relationship for almost a decade now, haha! I'm not kidding! For so many years, we've been through a lot of hell stuff, and fortunately, we surpassed all the trials. At the back of my mind, I'm already in peace---knowing that there couldn't be any problem which can shatter our relationship...


...and here comes the petty fights. Yes, the shallow and pointless arguments are the scariest. Some issues can be light at first, but these will secretly dig into your past and the next thing you know, the simple misunderstanding already became an unsolvable problem. I've experienced a lot of heart-breaking stuff, but of course, you have no choice than to mend the broken trust and renew the pledge of love. You'll do these things if you really love the person, your partner. I personally believe that there is no such thing as a small and big problem, because whatever problem it is, it may lead to a single result: a broken relationship. Be honest in communicating your feelings, accept your mistakes, and make sure to be a better version of yourself after every fight. Exert some efforts, love endlessly ^_^

Me with the ill-tempered but super sweet, Mr. J  ^_^

I guess stress would always be right there at the corner, waiting for the perfect time to seep into your sleeves and steal the enthusiasm in your heart. However, there's no one to be blamed for this, but YOU---because it's up to you if you'll let it in. 

Pray for God's guidance in everything that you do. Prayer is our ultimate weapon against stress! Also, keep the positive mind, look at the brighter side of every problem, if you're always seeing the negative things, refocus your lens and make sure to capture the beautiful things. 

Remember, we are experiencing stressful things because God wants us to learn how to appreciate... and to remain positive always :)


Never let it show! stay happy and positive!


---Miss G.

I am Ms. Misunderstood

MOST OF MY FRIENDS can testify that they all experienced this “first impression” syndrome when they first met me. Honestly, I’m not really good at making friends, and I only have a few people to consider as my genuine friends. Although I can get along with other people in a casual manner, most of them seem to remain as acquaintances rather than close buddies. I’m not sure how you will define the word “friends”, but for me, they are the ones who can keep up with the best and worst version of "you".

I often throw myself questions like: “Maybe there’s something wrong about me?” or “Am I too loud? Am I that insensitive?”---this kind of stuff always bothers me. But in contrast to my self-accusations, my friends always assure me that I’m one of their best buddy and someone they’ll never, ever, forget (aw… ^_^)

That’s why I came to realize that maybe I’m just being misunderstood by some people, maybe they are just overthinking things about me…Maybe I should help them know the REAL me. 

Below are some of the false impressions about me, that I often hear from the people I encounter (some eventually become my best friends). 

1. She always wear makeup, She's definitely "maarte" (my apologies to my foreign readers, I think there's no appropriate English translation for this word)

Well I understand the logic of this, somehow. Actually, the main reason why I wear makeup is plainly because I want to look presentable in front of my friends, colleagues and students, and to all of the people that I may encounter everyday. For me, a presentable face possesses indescribable power to persuade and convince other people. But it doesn’t mean that I cannot be simple?! Honestly, I prefer my no-makeup face ^_^.

2. She has this "resting bitch face", such an obnoxious brat.

*sigh* forgive my genes, I don't really mean to look so daunting and grumpy?! I may not look so approachable at first, but I promise you, I am a very sociable person who loves long hours of conversation :) Don't judge so easily, Give me a try!

3. Her skin is so fair, maybe she bathe in a tub filled with papaya soaps and drink pitchers of glutathione.

I'm very used to these type of comments, and I honestly find them as a compliment. But to be honest, I haven't tried using soap or even taking pills with glutathione. Even papaya soaps are not on my shopping list. I think, my skin color is courtesy of my dad's wonderful genes ^_^ plus I'm really into lemon water and fruits--which I found effective in making your skin healthy and glowing. 

4. She is so skinny, maybe she's so picky about food

If only you knew the truth... that I'm a monster whenever yummy food is around! Maybe you should join me in one of my buffet escapades! haha! I normally ate a lot, I love food, I love cooking and eating relieves my stress :) However, due to my very active metabolism, I don't really get fat. But, I assure you that I also have those belly bumps that I cut-off through intense ab crunch and plank routines. 

5. She always wear skirts and shorts, She's so liberated

Oops! that one hurts, really. I love wearing skirts and especially shorts because they make me feel more comfortable and pretty. It's not because I want to show off my bare legs, I just feel so constricted when I sport jeans or pants. But I'm pretty sure that I always wear appropriate clothes for every occasion and every situation.

6. She laugh so hard---what a loud and wild lass

            

That's the real me!! When I'm happy, very happy, I really laugh my lungs out! haha! But I rarely to that on public places, I guess... especially if the place requires silence and formality. I'm not loud and wild, I'm just a happy and positive lass :)

7. She hangs out with the boys quite often, what a flirt

That one really get into my nerves -_- F.Y.I. peeps, boys are easy to deal with. They are very straight forward and even the small things make them happy. I have a few girlfriends, but most of my buddies are really lads. I don't flirt, it's not my thing, I'm just 'one-of-the-boys' ^_^

8. She's very outspoken and quite opinionated, very insensitive

I do speak my mind, literally, and I don't think that's something negative. However, I don't usually give unsolicited advice or inappropriate comment. But if the situation really demands for my own insights, I would divulge my opinion in that matter. My purpose is not to intimidate the person I'm talking to, or even make him/her feel bad, I just think my words will be of help to them---make them realize things based from an unbiased perspective. 

That's it! I don't think I've listed enough, but these things are the most popular impressions about me ^_^

You can never please everybody. Everyone will always have something to say about you. But it's on how you will handle every situation, deal with things and treat those people in return. You know who you are, and that's what really matters. But of course, always be open for changes, be ready to adapt and be a better version of yourself everyday. 

With your life's twist and turns, always remember to stay positive ^_^

Life is beautiful, so are you...

--Miss G.