Dealing with insecurities

“Love your own skin, love yourself" This is a cliché already. But even if you ask the prettiest girl in the world, I bet she will confess that ounce of insecurity hiding under her sleeves---itching to be resolved.

I decided to talk about “insecurity” for this blog post because of a student. This very smart and friendly student of mine wrote me a letter last week. In her letter, she opened about her insecurities which bother her soul every single day. According to her, she may look strong and stable outside, but deep inside her is a girl wanting to be swallowed by the ground. Her insecurities were more on her physical appearance, being larger than an average teenager, coupled with messy hair and not-your-definition-of-pretty facial features. Even before she opened to me about these things, I already noticed her lack of self-confidence because she would always stare at the ground and was very uneasy whenever someone is staring at her. At that moment, as I read her letter, memories came back as if they only happened yesterday---It was painful to reminisce the past which already burnt into ashes.

My favorite quote about insecurity. Loud people tend to hide their insecurities, but those who are confident enough can always keep their silence. 

I remember when I was still in elementary; I don’t even bother looking at the mirror and check myself. I don’t even put powder on or wear cute hairpins and headbands, for me, these are for girls who focuses more on looking good rather than getting good grades. I survived primary level without getting bullied or being called with names. But as I stepped into high school, things changed. In the 7^th grade, I noticed that most of the girls are already putting powder on and their cheeks blushed artificially because of tints, while their lips were somewhat glossy due to layers of lip balms. As I compared myself to them, I noticed that I don’t look good---they look better.

My skin is already fair, and I have to say that even without powder on, my face looks white and smooth, but still, I dealt with mockeries from my classmates. My face is so pale, my eyebrows are so thin that it looks like it don’t exist at all, my nose is not that tall, my teeth are large making my mouth protrude a little, and my eyes are very small with very few and short eyelashes. Thanks to my Chinese lineages, I was bullied, verbally, by some of my self-proclaimed-perfect classmates. But the good thing about me, I didn’t care.

Yes, deep inside, I was so insecure by my looks because I have a lot of pretty classmates. But what made me ignore all of those ridicules is the fact that I believe I have one thing they’ll find difficult to possess---I’m smart. I’m not bragging here, but I do believe that having the brains is far better than having a pretty face alone. Since high school and towards college, I kept on holding to my plans of improving my physical self after graduating. And now, I guess, I already did. But regardless of the praises I am receiving from the people who surround me now, I’m still certain of the fact that beauty will fade after years. I need this now because it helps me interact confidently with others, but I guess I can’t rely on it for quite a long time. It is the heart that really matters, because it will stay with the people I’ve touched forever.

This is me when my face is naked. See? I'm not perfect but I've perfectly learned  to love my flaws :)

We have different insecurities that we find difficult to flush out of our system. It may be physical (which is very common, especially to girls), intellectual and social, which all lead to emotional distress. Insecurity, if defined literally, is just the lack of self-confidence. All that we need to do is to accept the fact that we are not perfect. Other people may appear close to being perfect outside, but you don’t know how shattered that person is inside. We cannot have it all, because that will put out the fire of humility in us---which is very important.

So how should we deal with our insecurities? Simple, recognize each of them first. If you’re not good-looking, accept it and find a way on how you can improve yourself. Don’t put on a mask, because that could be easily removed. Highlight your assets and work on your flaws, learn to love yourself and appreciate how uniquely God created you, because from there, you’ll get the change from the depths of your being, which will reveal your inner beauty.

You can do a lot of things to improve yourself, that’s how you should deal with your insecurities---seek for self-improvement and love yourself. Confidence cannot be given to you by your family, friends or even a mentor, it must come from within, and it must be willingly acknowledged by the person. Listen to suggestions and constructive criticisms from other people; these will help you look at yourself from the point-of-view of others. However, my one last advice is never to resort on imitating others. Find an inspiration, then work on it and build yourself uniquely.

My body may bear those bulges, but who cares? I love it anyway :)

Everything becomes beautiful outside, if the inside is refined by nothing but goodness.

Loving all my flaws because God gave each of them as a blessing ^_^ 

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All-Natural skincare regimen with Human Nature

ARE YOU STILL LOOKING for the perfect skincare routine? I’ve already shared twice, in this blog, about my personal skin care regimen and I always recommend that you should stick to a single routine once you found out that it is the most effective for your case. But as I explored several products, I got hooked-up with all-natural skincare products which put my soul in peace, knowing that there is no single chemical that could harm my skin anymore.

If you are interested in discovering my new, but very simple, skincare regimen---just keep on reading!

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As I ventured in a part-time business of selling 100% natural products, I felt the urge to try every single product (as much as possible) before I endorse them to a friend or to a potential buyer. And thank God I did this! Because after testing these products, I created a perfect combination of them which addressed my needs. Aside from the fact that these products are all-natural, they are also affordable than the previous products I used.

Following the basic skincare routine: CLEANSE, EXFOLIATE, TONE and MOISTURIZE, I managed to put these products together and enjoyed the results!

DAY

NIGHT

I have two sets, one for the morning routine, before I put on my makeup, and the other one is before going to bed, after removing my makeup. The only product that switches is the moisturizer, but the rest are just the same. I’m totally recommending these products to everyone, whether you’re young or old, because I’m sure this routine will create wonders for your skin.

As I have pledged this year, I will focus more on selecting excellent skin care products rather than hoarding makeups. I believe that a good skin no longer requires heavy makeup, and it’s more suitable to look natural than totally made-up. And since I’m already 25, skin problems are getting worse than before, and if I won’t raise my guards, I’ll get murdered ^_^.

So why don't you try these products? and see for yourself! 

I would love to hear your thoughts, 

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WONDERING where in the world can you find these products? I can have them delivered at your doorsteps! ASK ME HOW ~send me a message thru my official FB page or email me @ missgdiariesofficial@gmail.com. THANKS!

Miss G @ 25: Celebrating my Wonderful Existence

“You are not defined by your age alone, but with the experiences you had and the challenges you surpassed”

                     

I celebrated my 25^th birth anniversary last Thursday, January 21, 2015. If only I could drag myself away from it, I will, because I don’t really want to add another year on my “age”---I hate to be a year older.

My 25 years of existence is quite hard to track. I’ve been through a lot of things: memories, experiences, struggles, battles and triumphs---all of which contributed to who I am right now. And though I hate the feeling that I’m older, getting older…I realized that my age won’t define me, because I’ll be the one to give a new definition to this age, 25.

Inasmuch as I look forward to great things this year has to offer, I did look forward to how memories will be created for my special day. In this post, I will share how people around me made my day a day to remember, a day to be thankful that “I’m 25 and I love it”.

~PARTY FAVORS~ I love the combination of colors :) Courtesy of my crazy friend, Rach *wink*

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Me and my close friends had plans prior to the big day: a themed-party in a resort or an ultimate gala plus food trip, but these plans didn’t materialize due to our busy schedules and tight budgets. Of course, disappointment seeped in, but I have learned to trust God and leave everything to Him, I know He’ll surprise me ^_^.

He did. The day before my birthday, I was brought into tears by my 7-G students as they surprised me with recorded greetings from my former co-teachers -slash- super buddies! I don’t know how they managed to do that, but it was very touching. After the class, I brought with me a beautiful bouquet of paper flowers, crafted by the students themselves, and a mini scrapbook with heart-warming messages.

~THE BOUQUET~ Isn't it lovely?! They handcrafted everything, such creative earthlings!

~GRADE 7-G~ It's an apology and a surprise rolled into one..haha!

Then the day arrived; I motivated myself to go to work early, just to start the day right. As I entered the faculty room, I saw that my two girlfriends are doing something on my desk. I immediately thought that: “Aha! They’ve got something for me!”, but a co-teacher blocked my way and drag me out of the faculty room (and as usual, gave me some excuses and asked me to come with him). When I re-entered the room, I saw that my desk was adorned by fancy birthday decorations, I’m so ecstatic! Though the banners, colored paper plates and cupcakes with candles covered my working area, I didn’t bother.

~MY DESK~ It looks like a children's party tho, but I love it! But wait, what's that? uncooked Kraft Dinner?!!!

Greetings blasted through the door, as my co-teachers recite their own versions of “Happy Birthday”. I went on my day as usual, I have three classes then, but things become unusual---unusually great!

My advisory class surprised me with flowers, balloons, banners, chocolates and a cake. They played a very lovely music and greeted me with cheers and group hugs. It was short but it made me feel how special I am for each of them---I felt loved.

~SUMS IT ALL~ Heart-warming surprises from my Grade 7-A students, much love to everyone!

~GROUFIE~ Great memories, always, with my 7A! :)

The next class made me laugh so hard. Their surprise was not-so-organized and very simple, but it was beyond thoughtful. They created a pink banner, gave me JCO doughnuts with bottled iced tea and a gift. But the best part was the confetti, which required us to clean the area right after enjoying the shower, haha!

During the day, I collected joyful greetings from the students (including those who are not part my classes), co-teachers and staffs. Greetings also flooded my timeline on Facebook! Thanks to everyone who posted their greetings!

I ended the day with a short but sumptuous feast with my close friends and a dinner treat from Mr. J ^_^.

~A GIFT~ Another great gift from a friend who also gave me a copy of Didache 2016 ^_^

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I know that words cannot be enough to express how happy I am for all the great things I received for my birthday. Truly, it is a one-day celebration, but the love everyone has shown will stay inside my heart forever.

I am so determined to make this year a year of change, a year of great chances---a year of realized dreams.

Happy at 25,

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,

SKIN TEST at Deoproce

YESTERDAY, I was planning to buy an eye cream. I wanted to try one and see if it is really effective in decreasing the visibility of my eye bags. I move along the shelves but nothing strikes me.

So I went on to look at some skincare products, tried some testers and scrutinized the contents. Then a saleslady approached me and offered me to try their skin test at Deoproce. Honestly, I'm not interested because that would take much of my time. But when she told me that it'll be for five minutes only, plus I'm going to receive some freebies, I suddenly changed my mind and followed her. (Hail to the freebies hoarder!)

I filled-out a form and proceeded with the skin test. She scanned my skin by pointing a hand scanner on my chin, forehead and cheeks. But results shocked me, for real! because all this time, I've been very diligent in keeping my skin at its best condition.

~SKIN TEST~  

~THE RESULT~

I'm already familiar with my skin type, which is oily, and the result gave me a sound evidence of it. But the rest of the findings shattered my self-esteem (but just a little..hehe). 

I can't believe that I'm still short in moisturizing my face, because I always do that. Maybe, I'm still not using the right product. According to the result, my pores are enlarged and my skin texture is rough. But the worst part is that I have severe pigmentation. I don't know if it's because I'm wearing makeup and it's not my actual skin or it's just time to do some re-assessment. 

Though I felt bad about what I've learned through this test, it gave me a chance to look into the small details of my skin condition. I believe that there's always room for improvement, so I won't stop improving myself---especially my skin ^_^.

At the end of the day, it's the freebies that will help me regain my esteem! haha!

Free lippies are the best!

I'm so excited to try these CC creams and Snail cream!

That's it! If you also want to know more about your skin, you can visit any Deoproce stall located inside the SM store. And don't forget to get the freebies!

Stay happy with your skin! 

BAGA MANILA in Cavite

THE FIRE HAS REACHED US! It's now in Cavite!

I've heard about BAGA (Barbecuers and Grillers Association) Manila before but it never urged me to see it for myself. Maybe because it's a bit far from my place and I'm so busy. To my surprise, here they are, closer than I expected! 

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I've already noticed a couple of interesting food stalls which occupied the vacant parking lot of ALL HOME (along Emilio Aguinaldo highway, Imus City, Cavite). I got curious, but again, I thought those are just ordinary tianggian or stalls selling random stuff---which I’m not quite interested with.

Last week, Saturday, Mr. J asked me to go out with him and try this place and of course I said yes. When we got there, my taste buds suddenly burst in excitement! GRILLED FOODS! It was like Maginhawa St. rolled into a two-lane food hub.

~REUNIONS~ We met some of our former students (who are now in college) during our first visit :)

The first dish that I've tried: Pork Sisig! But honestly, I find it kinda dry.
The egg should be somewhat half-cook right?

~FRESHLY SQUEEZED LEMONS~ This lemonade is so refreshing! Plus it so cheap--35 php :) 

Unfortunately, we had a serious argument while we were finishing our food, so we left the place instantly. I was so regretful. *SOBS*

The following day after fixing our issues, we went back to continue our food quest ^_^. I'm so eager to explore the stalls and see how come this place becomes so popular to a lot of foodies. 

Foodies on the loose! Most of the tables were occupied during my second visit.

So what is my goal for this food trip?

SIMPLE. I want to look for food stalls offering affordable yet super delicious food stuff which are perfect to be paired with some crazy natters. I want to know which of them could be recommended to my gastronomic buddies!

As I stroll along the aisle, I was so overwhelmed by the choices. Aside from the grilled foods (of course since it’s BAGA Manila) they also offer native sweets/desserts, viands (which are labeled as lutong-bahay), and perfect night snacks, like goto and lugaw. However, I’m most impressed by the choices of beverage, because they stick with the healthy options: fresh fruit shakes and fruit juices, instead of alcoholic beverages (but I want a bottle of beer tho..hehe)

~SISIG MADNESS~ I really can'r resist the smell of sisig, sinfully good!

~DUMPLINGS~ Larger than normal, three pieces for only 70 php.

~GRILLED SQUIDS~ This is my favorite! Stuffed grilled squid with rice costs 100 php only! You'll definitely ask for another cup of rice :) 

They’ve got a lot! From takuyaki and katsudon (Japanese) to quesadillas and nachos (Mexican), you’ll have a hard time selecting the first item to indulge with. It is not a big place, more or less 20-25 stalls only, but I guess that’s already much for several hours of bonding with your good friends ^_^.

As to the affordability of the food, it depends. If you’re in the working class, it is very affordable because prices range from 35 – 100 pesos only! But if you are a student, it will depend on your allowance, hoho! If you think that your 20 bucks is comparable to a single stick of isaw (chicken intestines) then, you should hurry and visit BAGA MANILA now!

~ISAW FEST~ Who wouldn't love these?! The prices of these grilled stuff ranges from 10 php to 30 php. 

~SUMAN TURON with langka~ For only 45 php, you'll be able to enjoy three pieces of this heavenly treat. Promise, it really tastes good!

~TAKUYAKI~ Similar to the one I've tasted at Buffet 101 :) The taste is authentic, but i just hope they'll add more sauce. 

~GRILLED CORN~ I'm not a huge fan of corn, but this one made me love it so much! You can choose the base (butter, syrup or mayo) and toppings (salt, chili flakes, top secret) or combine everything! It's only 50 php :)

~GRILLED STUFFED SQUID~ See? it is so delicious in photo and even in real life! haha! They'll even slice it for you :)

~BARAKO FRAPUCCINOS~ They uses our native coffee, Kapeng Barako! Give up Starbucks just for a night! A large cup is only 60 php :)

On another note, a few observations left me hanging. Given the name ‘BAGA’ Manila, I think they’re a bit short of those smoke effect (haha!) which should’ve clouded the entire place, you know, for the added “feels”. I guess this is because only a few stalls really opted to use the traditional griller, and for some, their food are not even grilled or barbecued. Moreover, there is also a scarcity, well I think it’s better to be described as extinction, of bottled drinking water in this place. I haven’t seen a single bottle though -_-.

But over-all, this is a pretty nice place to hang-out with friends, especially if you’re adventurous and a nocturnal being ^_^ 

~ALL IN RED & BLACK~ The servers are pretty much hygienic, they wore hairnets / caps, plastic masks and aprons.

~GASTRONOMES~ The aisle is crowded by families, barkadas and couples who are enjoying the food. 

~FUNNY NAMES~ The stalls are adorned by tarpaulins bearing their cool names, better check them out!

~CASHIER~ They have a centralized cashier here. So once you already settled an order from a stall, get an order slip and pay at the cashier. They will give you a stub which you will use to claim your order. 

~THE RECEIPT~ Here is an example of an order slip.

~WELCOME~ You'll be greeted by this large note at the entrance :)

So if you are now drooling and can't wait to visit BAGA Manila, here are some few notes to consider:

• Arrive early (as much as possible). They are open every THURSDAYS to SUNDAYS, from 5 pm to 1 am. If you will arrive early, you'll have sure seats and stay for as long as you want. 

• Dress comfortably. Who knows, you might ingest a lot and that tummy will surely pop, so be ready!

• Scan the stalls first. Don't be too overwhelmed by the choices, walk along the stalls first and carefully look at the stuff they are selling.

• Share with your friends. If you really want to try almost everything, share with your friends! Besides, you can go back for more if you want. 

• Visit during weekdays. There are lesser guests during Thursdays and Fridays. But if you want to bump into someone you know, chances are great during weekends :)

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So what are you waiting for?! Go ahead and visit BAGA Manila for some epicure experience! :) Don't forget to share your stories with me, thru our official Facebook page, Instragram or Twitter :) THANKS!

'Til my next gastronomic quest, 

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,