2014

Down to the last day of 2K14! It's been one crazy hell of a ride of challenges, changes and chances for me... Looking back from day one of this year, I know I have gone through a lot - from aching to part with my College life, surpassing dengue, quitting my first job, to the biggest leap I've done (so far) of moving to Dubai and living my life in independence. So many highs and lows which I endured (and still do), so many tears I've shed and kept to myself, so many times I felt totally lost and had no idea where I was heading to, so many points of breakdown. What can I say, a 21 year old girl who moved out of her comfort zone and voyaged for an adventure got a taste of what the real word really is like. Bitter sweet. Sour grape. Sweet lemonade.

But it was worth it. I have tapped on strengths I didn't even know were there or the things I'm capable of. I understood that some people aren't so nice. And, I knew who are most important to me and whom I'd want to keep in my life. Take this as my year-ender entry while I'm speed typing it, sitting in the office. All we have here is time, what we do with it, that's our life. No one is ever too young, too old, too busy or too poor to go after their dreams. And coupled with God's grace, you will be in awe! After all the bumps and hurdles, 2014 did not disappoint. I am filled with a renewed hope for the year ahead. And on a personal note: Don't get stuck in the moment (no matter how  good or bad it might be) Trust that there are bigger, brighter things coming, that there is always tomorrow and exciting things to come in 2015! xxx

This Time of the Year

It's a wonderful cold breeze brought about by the season and the warmth of having family and friends together... 

Back home in the Philippines, this season has been in full swing since the -ber months have entered. Parols lined out in the streets, decorations extravaganza, the playful lights (I remember watching year by year a new lights set up at the CCP Complex whenever I go home by bus), the fluffy and tasty bibingka and sweet-that-melts-in-your-mouth puto bumbong after every Simbang Gabi which I can only satisfy my craving for once a year.  These are the little things that I miss from home and remind me 'tis the season! Coupled with my Mama's natural decor designing skills and master-planned Noche Buena.  It's always a full-blown feast in the PH, it doesn't matter if you have much as long as you have your family around the tree. (And by family, that includes our pet dogs and cats :> ) Meanwhile, in the Middle East, I am comforted to see Christmas decors up in Hotels and Malls, to hear carols from our Kababayans and greetings from our non-Christian friends and colleagues. I too give myself a little help by firing up my 8tracks with happy + Christmas songs (It gives me the feels...)

This is the first time celebrating Christmas away from home. (May tatalo pa ba sa Pasko ng Pinas?!) The season's spirit has delayed sinking-in to me, as I have only got to put on my Santa hat to do some Christmas shopping on Christmas day!! Putting away all the longing for family (friends included) and scrambling for gifts, is resetting yourself to the true reason of the season. No matter where you are or what you're going through - this is a time (more than ever) to be grateful to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for coming into our lives. PocketFuel has written it best. Isn't this a wonderful time to reflect and get fired up more for the coming year that's just a stone-throw-away? 
I hope you find meaning at this time of the year and exciting things to come in 2015! xxx

Al Ain Photo Diary

Al Ain is UAE's little gem in the middle of the desert. It gives you that serene, peaceful and provincial vibe. We were spoilt with fresh air, cool breeze, landscapes and greenery far from the hectic lives we tend to get used to in Dubai. Some of the things that I've missed back in the PH. Walking in their vast park while enjoying the beautiful weather (it's been deliciously good since the season changed; I tell you, this is the best time to come visit the AE) was a breather from the hustle 'n bustle of the city! I too admired the Palace Museum which was just a few walks from our Hotel and reflects the rich cultural past of Emirati Heritage. The Al Ain Palace Museum or Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum was the actual palace of His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan (President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi). Built in 1937 which, later on, has been converted into a museum which retained the olden time and elegant feel of the Emirati Royals. I still remember the last time I fell for Islamic Architecture, here. An hour and a half drive to Al Ain wasn't bothering at all. Found between Abu Dhabi and Dubai and home to the amazing Jebel Hafeet (so I've learned, Jebel is the Arabic word for Mountain). The road up Jebel Hafeet was a mesmerizing sight, with the hills covered in a blanket of glistening lights while being surrounded by natural landscapes you know were the works of one amazing creator. She's a beauty you wouldn't wanna miss.

Al Ain

 

As the year is coming to a close, I'm starting to reflect on and evaluate myself. The past few weeks alone has been a whirlwind of events - scoured Dubai to find a new place and began moving in, did my first part-time job for Formula One in Abu Dhabi and happily ended the month in Al Ain! To spend Thanksgiving on a weekend adventure (tagging along with the Power Puff Rangers) made me come full circle and know that 2014 has not disappoint. I am forever grateful for everyone, for everything and for what's to come in my life... Can't stop won't stop.

F1 Weekend

 

How can I not be overly excited and grateful to spend such an amazing 3-day weekend with Formula One race cars, work with an international crew, serve the likes of Kylie Minogue and share the same room with Etihad CEO - James Hogan or Prince Harry perhaps?

Getting into the-very-last-minute for my very first part-time job gave me a lot of firsts and brought me a whole new lifetime of experience! Like I've always said, I have the FOMO. Therefore, you might see me running, chasing to get into events and trying to make things happen... With a wonderful stroke of luck, I got in an international events group catering for big events, organizing races (F1 racing, for that matter!) around the world - that is Do&Co. With the season ending in Abu Dhabi, I'd do anything to be in that event! I don't mind having only 4 hours of sleep, shuttling back and forth Dubai and doing hospitality work for very. important. persons. Waiting tables (for the first time!) even just part-time wasn't easy! It was nerve-wracking the first day - thinking if I might trip, break a glass or get the wrong order. I'd say it's a skill and even a form of art. I've learned how to serve champagne with the correct arte and realized the magic that's happening behind the kitchen!

The crew from Do&Co, who specially flew in from Austria, were absolutely meticulous and quality consistent professionals - they were perfect in what they're doing. More so, they were kind-hearted, genuine and needless to say, beautiful people. We too worked side by side with the world's best Cabin Crew, and what made me feel proud is that they're Cabin Managers were Filipina! I am so glad to have worked with a multicultural crew who know the value of teamwork, who has a sense of leadership and one who upholds standards. They're energy is contagious and I hope to keep those values in me for the rest of my life. Plus, the new friendships I've made along :)

I've been designated in the Etihad Airways lounge which I had no idea would cater to the VVIP guests and was the among the important box in the Paddock. The view from our window was right next to the Pit Lane and the Finish Line of the Yas Marina Circuit. Hearing the zooming loud sounds of the F1s pumps my adrenaline too! It took me some time to soak everything in! The job was definitely exhausting but more rewarding. And though I've lost my favourite sneakers during the finals, I have gained way more! I cannot contain myself for this wonderful experience. It's as close to me as a deja vu which is why I came up with this blog post though having only limited photos (since taking pictures or filming the event is strictly prohibited). Guys, the final word I'd want to leave with you is get. out. there. It is these moments that make us feel more alive. Mabruk to Lewis Hamilton whom I've heard from one of my guests was a very down to earth and prayerful man. No wonder he won the race and the heart of Nicole Scherzinger.

It must be the Ferrari.  

Al Mamzar

Everyone needs that quick inspo to get through the day... And a simple Birthday invitation at Al Mamzar Beach Park, turned out to be all that! It's a beach and a park in one! (Pun intended.) Of course it's ought to be fun with family and friends together, not to mention, the scrumptious Filipino foods we enjoyed while we happily seated ourselves on the banig... I really missed that! I didn't mind going back and forth for another round of liempo and sisig! But other than that, I was glad to meet the waves Mamzar Beach can boast of, since most beaches here in the UAE are calm and serene. Us girls enjoyed riding the waves and only did I realize there how powerful waves can be. I shall dedicate a more detailed post on that, InshaAllah ;)

 

For now, I wanted to share this dreamy bougainvillea sweet spot I kept eyeing on since we came. It was only in the afternoon, when it's about time to go home, that we had seconds to take pictures of it! There couldn't have been any perfect time of the day. I've always had thoughts of having a dreamy photo against what seems a floral heaven, an inspiration I might have imbued from Gary Pepper and Miss Jones. Life is but a dream... come true.

My Friend

 

I'm not just a Christian, I'm a Catholic. No matter what religion you're coming from - be it Islam, Hindu, Orthodox, Sikh, Shinto - I believe there is one powerful God watching our lives. The movie "God's Not Dead", isn't just a Christian movie catering only to a particular sector of the world's religions but is a very insightful, engaging, mind-boggling (if I may say) film that tickles your brain and makes you look deep into your self of who you are, where you're from and where you're going. With the setting in a University where the main character is a Freshman with a great love for God, debating and presenting arguments with his Atheist Philosophy Professor, relived in me my College life and how exciting it is to be in a 'think tank' room exchanging thoughts and insights. The movie was amazing in crafting it in such a way that it's relatable to different kind of people.

 

This wasn't only a movie to me but an experience that strengthened my faith in God. I personally believe that one's religion or belief is an individual choice. Your faith is a personal relationship you have with God. It's been quite some time since I last went to Church before seeing this movie (unexpectedly and unintentionally) with my cousins last night. I would've even chose to sleep on them. But again... I really do believe that things happen for a reason. And the reason I've acknowledged from this is that God made me want to remember that He is my Lord and Saviour. Jesus is my Friend.

 

 

And before putting myself to sleep, I opened my tiny Bible app in my iPod feeling so inspired. I want to share the open verse that popped up highlighted in green...

 

"For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male

nor female - for all of you are one in Christ" Galatians 3:27-28

 

Eighteen... Not

 

As seen in my consecutive instagram posts, I've been posting pictures of my dear cousin Maha's 18th Birthday Party! It's hard to even stop and convince myself it's enough, thinking that my followers might get fed up seeing posts from the same event. But I couldn't be more happier with my cousin's concept and theme of her Debut - pastel and bright solid colours, hundreds of balloons, big bold flowers, a quirky photo booth and a tower of cupcakes - some things I really love (and so do most girls) creating our very own Alice in Wonderland! The outcome of the balloons we pumped, the crepe paper flowers we meticulously handcrafted, and the venue's set-up on the photos was exciting! Unashamedly, we're goofy teenagers and I still refuse to believe I'm in my 20's! I thought these memorable photos needed a dedicated post. You just might want us to plan your next. big. party.
 

We're all about that bass, no treble ;)