Small Steps by Jinky

My Garden's Latest Addition

2012-01-24T21:35:00.000-08:00

here are the new features of my side yard and back yard gardens ;-p

organic eggplant (perfect for omelette and salads)

ginger ( for brewing soon)

cassava (soon to be ingredient of my desserts)

Fun in the Pond

2012-01-10T23:45:00.001-08:00

The mini pond we helped built is now operational. It is now brimming with fresh water and tilapia fingerlings. We had so much fun building it with my kids and their cousins in attendance.

Now we have more excitement in feeding the fishes with floaters/fish meal. It is very relaxing to the mind and soul watching the fishes during feeding time :-D

early morning shadows of our fishes

We are now excited in seeing these little creatures turn into big tilapias ready for our fishing rods and baits! :-D

Mini Tub, Many Uses

2012-01-08T19:54:00.000-08:00

This mini tub is built of rocks and cement with clear and sparkling water coming from the spring underneath the pebbles. This is one of the best places for a soak in the backyard of our home. The tub is perfectly sized for a few kids, about 1.5 feet deep, and has a very cold temperature. The tub is located just below our pond, affording everybody an awesome backdrop. Very primitive and natural.

We decided to have this tub built for many reasons, to wit;
bathing
washing clothes and linens
outdoor playing spot for the kids
distressing while soaking in the cool waters and listening to the sound of its mini waterfall
serving as alternate pond for the tilapia fingerlings :-D
etc.

We still have a lot of things to do to make this little paradise truly presentable so as make it very inviting for everybody but for the meantime, we can already start enjoying the pristine waters of this mini tub :-D

Welcome, 2012!

2012-01-01T18:58:00.000-08:00

To God be the glory for all the blessings on 2011!
For the challenges ahead this 2012, Your will be done, my Lord!

Christmas Cheers from ODC

2011-12-27T18:00:00.000-08:00

Olaer Development Corporation, under the leadership of our very dynamic President, Mr. Henry Olaer-Montilla, made the christmas season happier and more meaningful for the wards of the St. Vincent Strambi Home for the Aged and St. Gemma's Orphanage through a gift giving activity held on December 27, 2011.

This is our way of saying thank you for all the blessings and good things we have received as members of the ODC.

Hoping that in our own simple way, we were able to make a difference in the lives of many!

Merry Christmas, everyone!

(photo credits goes to Mr. Henry O. Montilla)

Tears in Heaven and perhaps Laughters

2011-12-21T20:57:00.000-08:00

picture source: photobucket

Exactly nine days from now will be the 1st death anniversary of my dear brother. His untimely demise taught me basically a lot of things. I came to realize that time is indeed so fleeting and that we are just transients in this world. That is why we should always find time to spend quality moments with people close to our hearts for we just don't know how long this privilege will last.

I am sharing with you lyrics of my brother's favorite song. A song by Eric Clapton and it was sung by my brother's best friend before we laid him to his final rest. For several months, listening to this song would always mean tears streaming down my eyes as well but thanks God when I heard it this morning - the feeling of emptiness is no longer there.

I take it is a sign for us to move on and continue dwelling on the thought that my brother is already resting peacefully and now sharing laughters with our dear parents up, up there!

Would you know my name
If I saw you in heaven?
Would you feel the same
If I saw you in heaven?
I must be strong and carry on
'Cause I know I don't belong here in heaven

Would you hold my hand
If I saw you in heaven?
Would you help me stand
If I saw you in heaven?
I'll find my way through night and day
'Cause I know I just can't stay here in heaven

Time can bring you down, time can bend your knees
Time can break your heart, have you begging please, begging please

Beyond the door there's peace I'm sure
And I know there'll be no more tears in heaven

Would you know my name
If I saw you in heaven?
Would you feel the same
If I saw you in heaven?
I must be strong and carry on
Cause I know I don't belong here in heaven

Goodbye, dear bro! Missing you a lot . . . .

Of Friends and Christmas

2011-12-19T16:44:00.000-08:00

here's a repost from an unknown author:

I’ve said it before
And I’ll say it again

Have a very Merry Christmas!

I truly appreciate presents you gave and I will forever be grateful for this! Much more, the thing that makes me feel very special is the thought that you gave your precious time in looking for something that I am passionate about . . . Again, thank you very much from the bottom of my heart!

Thanks for remembering . . . and may God bless you more!

Honeydew for Christmas

2011-12-18T17:14:00.000-08:00

Scientific Binomial Name: Cucumis melo

Honeydew melon is a variety of Muskmelon that originated in France and is considered the sweetest of all melons.

source: Produce Oasis

I find this fruit very refreshing and hopefully we'll have a serving of this on christmas eve :-D This is best served with crushed ice on the side.

Yummy Christmas Present

2011-12-16T00:56:00.000-08:00

Received a boxful of these yummy treats the other day from
a very thoughtful friend . . .

goodies from Goldilocks that made my kids happier! :-D

thanks a lot!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-06T17:45:00.000-08:00

Advance merry christmas, everyone!

Banking on Infinite Banking

2011-12-06T17:21:00.000-08:00

Almost everything in this world levels up everyday. It is unstoppable. Be it in our lifestyles, gadgets we are using and even in systems used in business management.

That is why it's not ordinary anymore if we can see new and better innovations being implemented by the banks to improve their system for the satisfaction of their clients.

The concept of infinite banking now exists. It is tagged as a process that is simple, safe and profitable. Many individuals concerned with their financial system are now banking into it and somehow starting to benefit from it.

Along with the trend of of globalization, infinite banking is now another best option to keep abreast with the times.

Raising Tilapia in the Backyard

2011-12-01T23:13:00.000-08:00

Raising tilapia makes moi and the kids busy nowadays. Our backyard mini pond has been done and it's now filled with water enough for a few big tilapia and lots of their fingerlings.

Raising this variety of fish is not that hard after all. We just have to see to it that they are well fed and the waters they thrive in has got the right temperature.

It is exciting to wake up every morning and rush to the pond to feed these creatures. Aside from gardening, this raising fish task would surely occupy lots of space in my future blog posts.

Wish us luck, friends! :-D

Try Cymax

2011-12-01T23:02:00.000-08:00

The Christmas season has officially started. One can now smell it in the air. Everywhere, people are rushing. Not only to buy gifts but to scout for new items or goods for the homes and offices.

We now have an alternative of doing shopping sans the maddening crowd and scorching heat. This is through the use of technology. This is called Cymax. This is a new and innovative way of scouting for best buys using the tip of our fingers.

They have a large selection of products being offered on the web. They ensure that quality of these products remains their topmost priority. They are also tagged as industry leader when it comes to customer service.

Wanna go shopping? Please give Cymax a try!

I Love Sunset!

2011-11-17T00:43:00.000-08:00

I was watching from my garden as the sun sets
last weekend and I can't help it but to exclaim
"Thank you, dear God for this very wonderful world!".

Chill for Hot Thai Chilies

2011-11-10T21:19:00.000-08:00

My plot of Thai chillies ( seeds courtesy of Ms. Gay) is now bearing fruits very much more than we can actually consume and distribute to neighbors. It is very awesome to see every morning pods turning into very bright red color from being deep green.

I have somewhat learned to be creative with my oversupply of herbs and chillies in my garden. In my other blog, I made use of my herbs as air freshener. Now, I am turning the ripe chillies into a decor and as an easy to reach spice inside my kitchen.

I tied them with plastic twine into a bunch of colorful chillies to be air dried in my kitchen. I am also thinking of roasting them when they are thoroughly dried and save it for future use.

One thing I learned about Thai chillies - the green ones are hotter than the red ones :-D

Chill!

Just Sharing

2011-11-09T19:54:00.000-08:00

YOU CAN BE WHATEVER YOU WANT TO BE!
by: Donna Levine

There is inside you
All of the potential
To be whatever you want to be;
All of the energy
To do whatever you want to do.
Imagine yourself as you would like to be,
Doing what you want to do,
And each day, take one step
Towards your dream.
And though at times it may seem too
difficult to continue,
Hold on to your dream.
One morning you will awake to find
That you are the person you dreamed of,
Doing what you wanted to do,
Simply because you had the courage
To believe in your potential
And to hold on to your dream.

B2B Telemarketing

2011-11-09T16:19:00.000-08:00

It cannot be denied that we are now living in a highly competitive world due to globalization. Businesses must be dynamic and competitive enough in order to survive. Continuous improvement and implementation of new strategies are a must to keep up with the times.

One strategy that is making waves today is business to business telemarketing. This is a business approach now being used worldwide. This strategy makes everything obtainable anytime, anywhere. Customers and consumer needs are now addressed at once due to telemarketing.

Business entities who would want to engage telemarketing services are given leeways in doing so. After all, outsourcing still remains a prerogative of the management. As long as it is for the survival of the business, b2b telemarketing remains the best option as of now.

A Halloween Treat

2011-11-01T20:47:00.000-07:00

Yours truly exerted much effort to make the recent halloween memorable for my kids and their cousins. I prepared some pica pica eatables and freebies for them which will be featured in my other blog.

This is their first ever halloween mini party courtesy of me. Many thanks to Anney whose blog posts really inspired me to organize one.

It was fun, really fun as they wore masks of horrible characters. Next time, I swear to to do a lot better by providing them with costumes, makeup, etc. . . :-D

after the halloween fun, they proceeded to our backyard and helped in arranging the stones for our soon to be mini pond . . .

the fun continued as they posed atop a left over part of a coconut tree in our side yard . . .

the day ended with all of them getting wet after a quick dip in the pool!

Happy halloween, kids!

There will be more next time, promise! :-D

A BIRTHDAY IN MY SIDE YARD GARDEN

2011-10-26T17:35:00.000-07:00

My youngest child, Jasmine, turned 6 last Saturday. It was one momentous event for my baby because it was her first ever birthday celebration in our new home :-D. We prepared and served simple meals for her friends at our home's side yard garden.

My older kids and their cousin - they were the ones who helped me out in preparing the food to be served :-D (they are really of big help, promise :-D)

the gang!

the celebrant and her friends with my string beans as background :-D

Happy birthday, baby Jasmine!

Special Non-Working Holidays

2011-10-12T18:42:00.000-07:00

October 31, 2011, by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 265, has been declared as special non-working holiday in the country. This brings to two successive non-working holidays (Oct. 31 and Nov. 1) in two weeks time for all of us :-D.

Work performed on these two days merits additional 30% on the wage. No work, no pay applies.

Of Safety, Health and Materials Testing

2011-10-12T17:55:00.000-07:00

We are now living in a highly globalized society. The world is borderless. Everything comes in an instant. Even karma, this is according to my favorite character of a tv drama I watch regularly.

Development is here because of globalization. Everywhere you look, high rise structures are sprouting. There is an emergence of all sorts of businesses.

What worries me is the thought that with this trend now, wherein everything is globalized, accidents are still prevalent everywhere. Be it in the road, construction sites, inside the malls or even inside your own homes.

We are talking of development and yet the issue on safety and health seemed not a talking point with what is happening right now. I think that to address this problem, materials testing must be imposed.

This is just a humble opinion but I know it has weight.

I'm a Proud Mom of Two Debutants

2011-10-09T17:10:00.000-07:00

Barely a year had passed but we already have two debutants in the family. Yes, Mama Mia, am getting older :-D . . .

Rafee and Tina are no longer babies, they are now ladies!

two young girls then with their best friend Mich

they are now young ladies soaring high as they conquer new heights . . .

beloved ates to their siblings . . .
obedient daughters to me and my hubby . . .
responsible members of our community . . .

My young ladies, you may now spread your wings but don't ever forget to look back behind where we all came from.

You are my babies and for always, we'll be loving and taking care of you!

Enjoying Life!

2011-10-03T17:27:00.001-07:00

Oh My Tomatoes!

2011-09-27T21:35:00.000-07:00

I've been so engrossed with gardening lately. True enough, it is so gratifying specially if you are now harvesting the fruits of your labor . . . .

it all started with these baby tomato plants . . .

in a very short time, buds and flowers began to bloom . . .

flowers eventually turning into plump tomatoes . . .

and now we are enjoying

a daily harvest of fresh and crisp tomatoes!

Of Moon and Prayer

2011-09-14T22:11:00.000-07:00

The moon was so radiating the past few nights. I couldn't help but say my prayer for its beauty and everything that God has bestowed on us:

We give you thanks, most gracious God,
for the beauty of earth and sky and sea;
for the richness of mountains, plains, and rivers;
for the songs of birds and the loveliness of flowers.
We praise you for these good gifts,
and pray that we may safeguard them for our posterity.
Grant that we may continue to grow
in our grateful enjoyment of your abundant creation,
to the honor and glory of your Name, now and for ever. Amen.
Book of Common Prayer/Book of Divine Worship

Jinky's 2011 Top Emerging Influential Blogs

2011-09-06T21:47:00.000-07:00

My entry to last year's Search for the Top Ten Emerging Influential Blogs made me $100 richer. Sana maulit muli he he he :-D

For this year's search for Top Ten Emerging Influential Blogs Writing Project, here are my choices:

Eat’s Terrific
need I say more? one of the best bloggers in the whole universe
a blogger with a very big heart and I miss him so much!

Bookworm of Gensan
a blog of a very smart and intelligent person I idolized, miss him too!

Kikay Much - a blog of a 100% certified fashionista!

Mother’s Instincts - a blog of my co-public servant ... a must read blog for all moms out there!

I Am Ariel Lalisan - a blog of a person na sobrang lalim! hats off to you, sir!

Pinay Travelogue - a blog you won't get tired of reading over and over again!

General Joana – again, a must read blog! reading her posts would make you conclude, gosh, this girl is so intelligent!

Libotero – if you want to smile, visit this blog!

Markable Me - a blog of a very promising, young lad! and

last but not the least, my very own

Jinky’s Kitchen World – my food blog. This blog is very me. It features simple and affordable but yummy recipes.

BIG thanks to the following partners of Ms. Janette Toral: Cyber Monday Deals, TRIbeca Private Residences, How To Videos, Palawan Beaches for Sale, Green and Natural Lubes Philippines, Philippine data center, Philippine online shopping, Singapore Jobs, and Pinoy Party Food.

My T4th Birthday

2011-08-26T02:50:00.000-07:00

I celebrated my ___4th birthday yesterday. It was a day with lots of realization for me.

I left my previous age with several heartbreaking events and several worth remembering dates.

I started my day yesterday with a solemn prayer inside the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage Parish church.
As usual, a busy day in the Office but still I had the chance to do some reflections.

I have been telling everybody that I have moved on after what had happened to my brother,Allan, and a dear cousin, Alice. Truth of the matter is I haven't yet. My heart is still broken and I still have once in a while that empty feeling inside of me.

But the outpouring love and concern I received yesterday made me realize that there is no reason for me to be still living in a bad dream. Many people care for me and they do deserve to be taken cared of also. You are worth my while and for the times I have forgotten you, my apology.

My day ended with a prayer of thanksgiving and praise to our Lord almighty for the infinite love and all the graces he has bestowed on me.

To you, my friends and loved ones, you are the reason why I have this very thankful heart now. I am moving on, definitely, because of you....
thank you very much!

A Repost : The Eden Project

2011-08-22T17:03:00.000-07:00

I saw this morning my tomato plants starting to bear fruits and upon opening my e-mail I saw this piece sent by a friend (tnx, Ms. Vivian!) and I find it so timely and very much worth sharing. . .

“Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” James 1:4

In Cornwall , England , you can visit a place called “The Eden Project.” The Eden Project attempted to build the perfect environment in which plants and trees could flourish. Obviously named for the Garden of Eden, this collection of “biomes,” huge domes, provides a tightly monitored atmosphere with a perfect temperature range and humidity. There are no insects and there is no pollution. What more could a tree want?

But there was a problem.

After this wonder of science was built, the scientists on the project noticed something strange. The leaves on the big trees were beginning to wilt and the branches were starting to droop. Puzzled, they consulted a tree expert. After studying the situation, he reported, “Your problem is that there is no wind in the environment. It’s the wind that pushes and moves the tree fibers forcing the nutrients and moisture to be drawn up from the ground. Trees need the stress of the wind or they won’t thrive!”

How much is that like our lives? A lot!

Given a choice, we would construct our own little “Eden Project” around our homes, our families, our dreams, and our futures. In our bubble, we would have just the right emotional climate—a controlled and restricted atmosphere where we could click the delete button keeping out unwanted news and pain. Trouble would be carefully filtered before it could reach us, keeping us well protected from the “pollution” of suffering and heartache. In our dream world, we would no doubt think that designing this stress-free environment would provide a spiritual climate in which we could thrive!

Right? Well, not really.

James points out that our lives need a little “wind” if we are going to grow and mature. In fact, we are called to choose an attitude of joy in the face of life’s storms, trusting by faith that God is going to use them to help us grow. James says that the trials you and I face, whatever shape they take, test our faith. They are there to reveal whether or not we really believe the things we say we believe on Sunday mornings at church.

As your faith holds, strong perseverance—your ability to “hang in there”—enables you to stay faithful and steady in the face of the divine storm. And, as you patiently stay under the stress of the “wind,” God will make you “complete, not lacking anything.”

It’s the wind of life that stretches and presses the spiritual fibers of your heart to bring nourishment and vitality to your soul.

“Strength for the Journey”

WB Journal

A Race with Alcris

2011-08-21T22:23:00.001-07:00

I had a great time with Alcris, the young son of my late brother Allan, last Sunday morning. We found a nice place to jog on. It was on top of mounds of sands inside the resort premises.

I've been missing my brother a lot and the quality time I had with his son somehow compensated for the longing in my heart. . .

small steps racing. . .

am ahead of you . . . eat my dust :-D

the winners!

gratifying feeling. . .
feeling of contentment and peace abound. . . .

Miss you, dear bro!

My eyes are green with veggies

2011-08-15T22:19:00.000-07:00

Gardening, aside from cooking, keeps me busy nowadays. Enemy bugs are now my friends :-D (Tnx to Mam Ding and Sir Nick!). I realized that organic farming is not that hard after all. All I need is a little help from friends who know about gardening.
Now I know that we can eliminate small pests with a mixture of water and dishwashing liquid.
Plants as they grow need support (just like us...) they need water, sunlight, tender loving care and most of all, they need us to to keep watch over them.

Everyday I am surrounded by greens and frankly, I'm loving it!

holy basil (if you care for some basil tea,
please feel free to drop by our simple abode :-D)

plastic twines being readied for the string beans

the bitter gourds (ampalaya) on a race to the top of the bamboo stick :-D

The Beetles are Here!

2011-08-08T01:09:00.001-07:00

It's been a hard day's night, and I've been working like a dog
It's been a hard day's night, I should be sleeping like a log
But when I get home to you I find the things that you do. . .
The Beatles - A Hard Day's Night

I've been working hard on my sideyard garden for weeks now. As each new day begins to unfold, noticeable progress can be gleaned on my planted greens.

I have been observing my tomato plants for the past few days because some of the blossoming leaves has visible white patches all over them (please see pic below). . .

I saw the culprits yesterday afternoon. . .
small red beetles a.k.a ladybirds a.k.a. bugs. . .

two of them, presumably, a male and a female . . .
I thought of capturing and burying them alive. . .
Drowning them in the pool. . .
Pounding them with stones. . .
have them take a bath in water full of strong detergents. . .

probably too harsh for these small creatures :-D

Now that the beetles are here, am in a dilemma!

The Sideyard Garden

2011-07-26T17:08:00.000-07:00

I featured in my other blog, the garden beside my kitchen. Now I am letting you, friends, to take a look at the other side of my yard wherein a garden of greens is also starting to emerge.

my tomato patch. . .

bird chilies (seeds imported from Thailand)

Holy Basil (the name on the packet - also imported from Thailand) I hope they can adapt to our very unpredictable climate. . .

string beans (sitaw, balatong) 2 days after I planted the seeds - I was so amazed of their speedy growth . . .

on the 3rd day, green leaves of the string beans are now starting to form... can't wait to transfer them to a better place to thrive soon. . .

I also got a lot of newly planted fruit bearing trees as well as pineapples...;-D soon am gonna be singing bahay kubo, kahit munti ang halaman doon ay. . . ;-D

Please wish me luck, people as I indulge on gardening 101!

Flooding in the Highway

2011-07-22T00:58:00.000-07:00

We passed along this flooded area of the GSC National Highway yesterday and I couldn't help but wonder why is this happening?

It was not raining so hard and yet the paved highway was all covered with murky flood waters. . .
It is not yet that destructive but are we going to wait for that time to come before we act on this?
It's time that we do something to avert future calamities like this. . . let us plant trees, dispose our garbage properly and be responsible members of the community!

Life Changing Decision

2011-07-07T19:08:00.000-07:00

facing difficult life situations. . .
often seem too hard to handle. . .
our deliberate actions. . .
will test our mettle. . .
on how tough we are when it comes to life changing decisions. . .

Of Resort Living and BC Resorts

2011-07-07T17:04:00.000-07:00

It's been a month since we transferred residence. From the fast paced city life to a very serene and peaceful life inside our family owned resort.

Our one month stay there proved to be one of the most rejuvenating moments in my life as well as to my family. Who wouldn't be if you are surrounded by the greens, waters and fresh air?

Living there made me dream of seeing one day the famous BC Resorts. If given the chance, I'll be visiting first their Sonora Resort in Canada. According to researches I made, this resort is one of Canada's famous and luxurious place to stay once you're there. Unparalleled service and five star facilities await travelers there. One can indulge in their spa services, beauty treatments or even golfing to your heart's delight. You can also ogle their grizzly bears, orcas, sea lions and dolphins. They also offer breathtaking views of pristine landscape with no roads or cities in the horizon.

If I'm living in paradise now, maybe, visiting BC Resorts in the near future would afford me the experience of the seventh heaven!

Photo op of a Lifetime!

2011-06-30T17:17:00.000-07:00

This is what I've got when we requested the waiter of the hotel wherein we stayed in Surigao to take our pictures. At the count of one, two, three, four and five - I also got five pics in a row! :-)

An aspiring model and a photographer - waiter's photo op of a lifetime!

It's Mars, No it's Bruno!

2011-06-14T21:52:00.000-07:00

Meet the new addition to our simple abode!

After debating for about an hour with my kids and hubby, we finally arrived to a compromise. We are naming this little one as Bruno!

Bruno, we love you just the way you are!

Raiding the Scientist' Kitchen

2011-06-12T17:00:00.000-07:00

The drizzle last Saturday afternoon did not dampen my spirit and interest in raiding the house/kitchen of my scientist friend Ms. Gay Carillo.

Luckily, Gay was a willing victim of my looting skills :-) since she's leaving very soon for her new assignment in Thailand. A very wise career move of this brilliant lady for she is still young and full of dynamism.

Pre-loved items which she can't carry with her were disposed according to her own discretion. How I wish she'll leave Pasta behind ('just kidding, Gay!)

Now friends, let's take a look at my super nice loots!

I thought I won't ever have the chance of tasting Gay's freshly baked bread
using the bread machine from her recent US trip but thank God
for my kids and I over the weekend
did enjoy this heavenly delight!

Thai goodies for me to experiment inside my kitchen

more goodies from her cupboard to mine

spices in form of seeds. . . fennel and
hmmm, I forgot the name but I have an idea on how to use it.. . .

more seeds..this time for sowing not for cooking. . .

sesame oil, extra virgin tropical honey and meat tenderizer. . .

magazines for my weekend readings. . .

and the most challenging loots for me are
down here...

kaffir lime plant. . . for my future culinary experiments!

assorted potted green plants. . .

chives. . .smallest specie of edible onion

oregano, dill and lemon grass for planting. . .
I so love the smell of these plants..very therapeutic!

Thanks a lot, Gay! Good luck too. . . here's something for you!

I Appreciate You

You are a person
who makes life easier and better
for everyone around you.
Your continual acts
of thoughtfulness
and kindness
brighten each day.
What you did for me
will glow in my memory,
reviving pleasant feelings
every time I think about it.
I appreciate you,
and I thank you. By: Joanna Fuchs

A Blessed Day for Us!

2011-06-02T22:34:00.000-07:00

Hi there!
I am sharing with you, my dear friends, pictures taken during the blessing of our dear home. The picture above shows early morning sun rays enveloping our simple abode. Indeed moving in to our new castle was guided by dear God because there was no trace anymore of the heavy downpour we experienced the day and night before.

Rev. Fr. Sherwin Detuya, CP administering the blessing of our new home
and family as well. . . (thank you very much Father, from the bottom of our hearts. . . )

blessing of the bedrooms. . .

smiles after the blessing inside our living room. . .

Mimi and Patricia in the green room. . .

couz Sarah with beautiful Nicole in the blue room. . .

sistah Alpha with Mimi and Patricia in the pink room. . .

my little girls posing while readying the food. . .

my very good friend Presy helping me out
inside my kitchen world. . . (thanks a lot, Pres!)

it's chow time!

For almost three months, we waited for this big day. Now that it's done, we have a heart so full of gratitude to all of you, folks, who in one way or another supported us in making this dream of ours realized.

We are truly blessed because of you!

Thank you, everyone! God bless you more!

Have a nice weekend ahead. . .

- Arnel and Jinky (with our kids)

Home, Cows, Sunset

2011-05-22T18:57:00.001-07:00

In less than two weeks time God willing, we can finally say, we are going home. Here are some of the things adding up to our excitement. . .

home almost done. . .

the green grasses and the cows and my
little Jasmine ( she exclaimed, nakakita na talaga ako ng totoo na cow :-))

beautiful sunset as viewed from our porch!

Happy Birthday, Mom D!

2011-05-15T21:32:00.001-07:00

Yes, Mommy D did it again!

She celebrated her 62nd D day literally with a big bang...with former Philippine President Joseph Ejercito Estrada as her guest of honor. Pacman himself and his beautiful wife, Jinkee, were there to personally hand in their Hermes Birkin gift to beloved Mommy D. For sure, the radiant summer star was on cloud nine during that moment!

The lucky mom proved once and for all that she's not the Pacmom for nothing. She brought the house down with her singing and dancing prowess. Other entertainers for the big night were novelty singer Max Surban, sultry singer Madonna Decena and our very own local talent, Mr. Jun Jimenez. Excellent hosting of Gensan Pride, Ms. Joanna Banting-Lapore did additional wonders to our celebrator's special night.

Although lesser showbiz personalities were present, Mommy D's 62nd bday celebration still remains one of the hottest topics worth discussing by people from all walks of life. Aside from the million peso worth bag and the magnificent costume changes, the Pacman Gym which served as venue now seemed one of those to places to watch out for here in Gensan. It's cool out there! I bet, this will surely be another tourist attraction for the tuna capital of the country.

The food was great. . .
The numbers presented, awesome. . .
albeit there were some unruly guests crowding the stage front
to get a good view of the performers...
still, the party's great!

Kudos to the organizers of this event! keep it up, guys!

This is our Home!

2011-05-08T17:45:00.000-07:00

Let's take a peek inside our soon to be home before the painting and tiling process. . .

house exterior and all ( can't hardly wait to do some
gardening and landscaping for a greener backyard. . .)

bedroom no. 1 (for the king and queen :=) . . .)

bedroom no. 2 for the princesses :-)

bedroom no. 3 for beloved guests :-)

this is my world, my kitchen!

the dining area. . .

the living room with a view. . .
(it was almost sunset when we took this pic
and yet the sun was still shining so brightly. . .)

the porch. . .
(hubby is planning to put hardwood
in horizontal position in lieu of balusters. . . )

the bathroom. . .

more about our home, next time, folks! Thank you. . .

We're Almost There!

2011-04-24T06:43:00.000-07:00

Hey, guys! I am sharing with you this first ever picture of our soon to be residence. After a month of construction, this is how it looks like now. The journey since day one of the construction was quite exciting. Almost everyday, stories waiting to be told unraveled and endless excitement continued to awe me and my family.

A simple dream starting to come true... with God's grace and blessing - we can finally say, we're almost home!

More to come about this journey, guys, soon. . . .

April 23 is a Non-Working Day

2011-04-18T18:47:00.000-07:00

His Excellency President Benigno S. Aquino III, by virtue of Proclamation No. 150, has declared Black Saturday as special non-working day throughout the country.

Work performed on this day merits an additional 30% of the salary.

Principle of no work, no pay applies.

For more about holiday pay rule, please click on this LINK.

Back to Where I Belong

2011-04-07T01:31:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I last updated this blog of mine...

I am now inspired to blog more often - It's because am going back home (this time with my husband and a bunch of bubbly little jinkees).

Yes, dear friends, after seventeen long years of living in the city - hubby and I decided to build a home of our own within the place where I grew up. A place where you can stargaze at night. . . listen to croaking frogs... catch fireflies and get use to the sound of the crickets.

What makes it more exciting for me are the following:

the rustling waters. . .
freshwater fishes and crustaceans. . .
fresh veggies. . .
fresh fruits. . .
and
the chance to once again, play in the rain!

I want my kids to experience all of these things and perhaps tell them over and over again the beautiful stories of my youth in the place where I belong. . .

I'll be keeping you posted dear friends of this new development in my life. . . thanks for always being here for me!

Moving On. . . . Moving Out. . . Moving In. . . .

2011-03-02T20:59:00.000-08:00

am still keeping mum about my plans for the moment. . . .but I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you, dear readers, who kept on coming back to this blog even if I'm wordless . . . . am just keeping my pace and hopefully will be back to blogging in due time or maybe soonest.....

from my heart, Thank You!

Breaking Silence, Mending Broken Hearts

2011-02-02T00:44:00.000-08:00

I am now breaking my silence in the blogosphere. I hope through this, my drive to write and rant could help in the healing process me and my sister are enduring right now.

We know we are imperfect. That's why we feel that our hearts have been broken. How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one? But broken hearts gave us the will and strength to carry on with the daily routines of our lives. Of course, keeping the faith did helped a lot! The overwhelming understanding and compassion we got when we were grieving affirmed the belief that everything happened for a reason and purpose.

We came to the realization that a heart never broken is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect. Imperfections that showed us who we really are and who truly cared for us. For this, our hearts will forever be thankful to all of you and the One up there who is with us during our struggle.

Thank you, dear friends! we could not have gone this far without you. . .

STOP AND SMELL THE FLOWERS FOR NOW. . . .

2011-01-09T23:58:00.000-08:00

Apologies for my silence the past few days. I chose to be wordless to somehow ease the pain. Meanwhile, allow me to stop and smell the flowers for now. . . so long, my friends!

Here's Something for a Dear Brother

2010-12-30T13:36:00.000-08:00

cousins and pamangkins two days ago with my brother Allan(the one in blue shirt)

“Live life so completely that when death comes to you like a thief in the night,

there will be nothing left for him to steal.”

A couple of days ago, I did not have an idea of what living life completely meant. Now, I still truly do not, but at least after what happened several hours ago I have a better picture.

The multitude of relatives and friends who were with us during the few critical hours and after the passing away of my dear brother gave me the impression that he did lived, although not the best, a complete life!

Many prayed and wept with us during these early hours of our bereavement - and for this, I am very thankful to God for giving us friends and relatives like them. The pain was bearable because of you, guys!

The year ends soon but our very painful journey is still at the starting point. It may take days but I know we'll gonna make it - with God's help!

I am consoled by the fact that my brother is now with a person whose face he has not seen since he was born - our mother. Maybe she's guiding him now to heaven together with the angels and our dear departed loved ones.

One thing I would like my brother to take with him is the assurance that we'll take over wholeheartedly the responsibility he left behind for his wife and two kids. They are our family and it will stay as such forever!

Godspeed, dear brother, we will really, really miss you!

note: Allan is mine and Alpha's youngest brother. Our beloved mother, Faustina, passed away after giving birth to him thirty-nine years ago.

Greetings for the Yuletide Season

2010-12-27T21:15:00.000-08:00

We are wishing and praying for everyone

a

joyous christmas,

bountiful new year,

and a more peaceful

& prosperous 2011 ahead of us!

This Beautiful Thing Called Life

2010-12-13T14:11:00.000-08:00

With God's grace and blessings, it's christmas time once again! With a thankful heart, I bow my head and say my prayer and thanksgiving for another year given to us to enjoy life.

I have always been thankful for all the blessings He has bestowed on me and my family. Every year for me with my family is a gift from God. A precious gift nothing can take away from us.

So while we have time and we still can, let's spend precious moments with our respective families and enjoy the beautiful life with them!

For all that has been and everything that will be, to God be the glory!

Merry christmas, everyone!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-09T22:40:00.000-08:00

Merry
Christmas
and Happy New Year, everyone!

Moving Out with Las Vegas Movers

2010-12-07T20:23:00.000-08:00

I had an exciting girl talk last night with a good friend who is here for a short vacation.

From her, I learned that living away from your hometown and family is not a bed of roses at all. Survival of the fittest is the name of the game. You have to battle the longing and the feeling of helplessness while away on a land and culture so new and strange to you. Gradually, she has coped up with the life she has chosen and learned to love it despite its intricacies Together with her husband and two kids, they settled happily for several years in Las Vegas.

I am glad to learn that her eldest son has graduated from college and is now considering moving out of Las Vegas for a very irresistible job offer from a company based in the Big Apple. The mother in her made her decide to eventually move out with her son for the very much needed support.

Her only wish for now is to find fully licensed Las Vegas movers that could help them transport their household goods safely and help them lessen the burden of the complexity of moving out.

As their quest for a new life with the help of the best Las Vegas movers begins, I wish my friend the best of luck!

I am Voting for Life with Ria

2010-12-07T02:59:00.000-08:00

A vote from me goes to Life With Ria for the Philippine Blog Awards 2010 Bloggers Choice Award.

Why am I voting for her?

It's because she's one great writer! She's young, talented and beautiful - she's got so much to offer as a blogger. She's one good reason why I look at blogging in a very respectable level.

We need more bloggers like her whose writing style is worth emulating. I know this award will be another feather in her cap.

Go on, Ria baby, keep on shinin'!

I Dreamt of Tulips

2010-12-06T17:35:00.000-08:00

exhausting weeks
tiring trips
longing moments
are all gone

like tulips
blue skies
clear waters
now streams in my mind

how I wish
all days are like this
free from stress
we can daydream of tulips!

Precious Gold Coins

2010-12-06T16:36:00.000-08:00

Numismatics experts affirm that gold coins mean golden investments. It is considered as wise investment due to its intrinsic value. Gold does not depreciate but as time goes by the value continues to soar higher.

Nowadays, more and more investors are putting their investments on gold coins. They usually determine the value of these gold coins through it's rarity, age, condition and the number originally minted for the purpose. They also make sure also that these gold coins are made entirely of gold.

It is really wise to invest on precious gold coins because gold is liquid or easily trade-able, it is transportable, it can be divided into smaller units and it does not decay. Unlike other precious metals, gold's value is also always stabilized. Due to its scarcity in nature, gold becomes more priceless.

BLOGFEST 2010

2010-12-06T01:14:00.000-08:00

Blogfest 2010 is happening on December 11, 2010. This is one event I promise not to miss despite my very schedule for this month.

One thing that really convinced me to join this one of a kind activity is the impressive list of resource persons... My Oh My, at this point nothing can stop me from attending and listening to these talented speakers! :-)

Prof. Danilo A. Arao
Ms. Aileen Apolo - De Jesus
Mr. Dale Palileo
Mr. Jay Jaboneta
Ms. Janette Toral
Ms. Michelle L. Solon
Mr. Bobby Soriano
Mr. Ryann Z. Elumba
Ms. Ma. Ria Jose

Thanks to the man himself, Mr. Avelman "Bariles" Manansala, for conceiving and giving birth to the Blogfest 2010 concept. You rock, man!

To all bloggers and members of the new media - see you, guys!

Of Roads and Crossroads

2010-12-01T04:01:00.000-08:00

an early morning aerial view of Davao City as captured by the author

for three weeks I was away
there was not a single day
I stopped thinking of my family
while trying not to be lonely

I have seen roads while I travel
appreciated the beauty they unravel
there were less traveled roads
as much as there were dreaded crossroads

roads can be likened to our lives
living life to the fullest thrives
crossroads are inevitable in life
glaring in chaos and strifes

roads and crossroads for always
bring us to people and places
we long to see, connect and reach
something to be thankful of and appreciate!

Of Living and Leaving

2010-11-03T21:38:00.000-07:00

courtesy of webweaver's free clipart

This beautiful life tends to get more and more exciting each day. For the first time, in my nineteen years as wife and mom, fifteen years as government worker and almost two years of being a blogger, I will be taking a half month respite from the things I usually do everyday. This means a fifteen day break from

cooking and other household chores
facing clients and other routinary office activities
blogging and other web related activities

Albeit this is quite hard for me yet I have no choice but to face the challenge. This is for career advancement and hopefully for my personal growth as well.

Please wish me luck, people
in my quest to
conquer the best of leaving for a living! :-)

My Small Steps is now PR 3

2010-10-26T01:13:00.000-07:00

My pet blog has now earned Google's

Thanks to all my readers and followers out there!
Many thanks also to my fellow bloggers
who continue to inspire me to blog and blog. . .
Thank you, guys, for the love and support!

Madamo gid na salamat sa inyong tanan!

Furniture Retail Software for a Better Future

2010-10-25T21:17:00.000-07:00

I have two previous posts about a good friend of mine who is into furniture making business. Investing on furniture retail software in running his business yielded positive results. It did not only afford him more quality time with his family but a fatter savings for their future as well.

Just what is this furniture retail software all about? This is a software developed to streamline furniture retail processes in order to increase the business' profitability. This is a product of modern technology that is now slowly making noise in its' field. More and more businessmen are already using this software in doing business. We are living in a fast tracked world so it is but fitting and proper also to invest on something good that could eventually keep us abreast with the times.

The wonders of this furniture retail software may just as well be the key to a brighter and lighter future for everybody in the business world!

Happy Birthday, Jasmine!

2010-10-22T01:35:00.000-07:00

Jasmine turns five years old today!
She is my youngest baby
She's so smart and pretty

She's the only one among the kids who calls me Mommy
She loves to tell stories to her sisters, Dad and me
We all adore her being witty!

Jasmine is the name
of this little girl so vain
but we all love her just the same!

Happy birthday, baby girl!

My Small Steps from a Man with a Big Heart

2010-10-15T03:33:00.000-07:00

DOLE Undersecretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac and the author

Have you ever wondered why I christened my blog as "Small Steps"? The logical answer is because in reality I can't take big steps :-D. Aside from this, there is this one person, a very respectable one, who gave this strong two worded advice/comment to yours truly during those times when I felt that everything in this world is not fair. My feeling back then was it's just me against the world and everybody hated me. Feeling so low, I comforted myself by reading the blog of this man. A blog that exudes with radiant intelligence and wisdom. I knew he doesn't know me personally but I did put up a brave face by leaving a comment there. If I remember it right, I said that I'm also a member of a certain team and we've been trying very hard to accomplish something for the better by introducing changes unacceptable to many. That's why instead of gaining friends, we gained enemies. I never expected that the childish comment of mine would merit an answer that would make my attitude towards life turn 180 degrees. He commented back by saying . . . take small steps . . . small steps.

Two words that totally changed my outlook towards everything. Gone are the days of my being pessimistic, judgmental and very emotional than intellectual.

The rest is history for I am now a better person driven to continue taking small steps to achieve my goals in life and a person with the capability to accept the things/instances I can't change.

Thanks for the opportunity and realization, Sir Hans!

p.s. Many thanks to our Info Officer, Ms. Charmaine Sonsona, for the photo op with this great man!

Of Walking and Winning

2010-10-13T08:37:00.000-07:00

As promised, here's another post with regards to the just concluded Purok Olaer San Raphael Fiesta celebration.

I bragged about joining the Lumba Baktas competition and through this post, I would like to acknowledge my brave (ahem!) opponents composed of (sa walay pag dapig dapig) my very own cousins and nieces. :-)

(left to right) Rose, Myrna, Kuya Bhern (our generous donor), Neneng,
Sarah, Normita, Shakie, Pinpin and Grace (me, am the photographer :-)

Grand winner was our Ate Myrna P. Olaer. She went home with 5k and 2 sacks of rice. The race was simple. All we did was walk and dress up like Maria who is going to market. Being the author of this blog justified my being one of the rich (?) losers he he he. . . of course, I can't take big steps no :-). . . Nevertheless, all of us still felt like winners because they all went home Php500 richer! Why they? Because I got this. . . . for being the Darling of the Crowd because of my _ _ _ _ ness!

this is a welcome addition to my Unionbank cyber account :-)

I may not have won the race
but nothing beats the sweetest feeling of finishing the race by taking small steps!

Thank you, cousins, pamangkins and to the many fans of yours truly!

The Gift of Healing

2010-10-09T19:04:00.000-07:00

Jasmine and Sam

If there's one precious gift I am cherishing right now, it is God's gift of healing. With His healing grace, my baby Sam is now doing well and hopefully can go back to school tomorrow after being absent for two weeks due to dengue.

Dengue, as we all know, is now endemic almost everywhere in the Philippines. No matter how cautious we are, the danger of acquiring this disease is still possible for whoever, wherever.

Of course, the support of friends and loved ones count a lot during those times we were in the hospital. Please allow me to thank everyone who in one way or another helped us cope with the situation. Special thanks to Dr. Cristina Ramizo, the courteous and efficient people of General Santos Doctors Hospital, blogger friends, my loved ones...and everybody else out there! Thank you, people! Again, life was and for always will be easy because of you!

Madamo gid na salamat!

St. Raphael's Fiesta at OSR

2010-10-03T05:42:00.000-07:00

The feast of the archangels was celebrated by the christiandom last September 29. Purok Olaer/Olaer Swimming Resort honored our patron saint, St. Raphael de Archangel, by spearheading different festive activities and at the same time holding thanksgiving for the precious legacy left to us by our dear Lola Iyay and Lolo Pidok. The two folks were devotees of the healer archangel and that devotion has been passed on to the different generations of the whole Olaer clan.

The day started with a holy mass officiated by a Passionist priest.

This picture was taken right after the mass only
for the reason that the author was late due to a pressing commitment

What followed were activities that brought wide smiles to the fiesta revelers and picnickers alike.

Jose Divinagracia School band gave color and vibrance to our fiesta.

Several competitions were held such as the Lumba Langoy, Lumba Baktas, etc. . .

Lumba Baktas participants including moi. Please don't ask anymore if I won or not :-)
(I'll be writing a separate post about this soon!)

An anti-fungal company provided free services and medication to interested individuals.

very helpful, indeed, specially for those who need medical attention

By the way, all those who trooped to the resort during that day were given free entrance fee access and free usage of cottages. This is our way of thanking our customers!

Jollibee's appearance was a blast!

kids, young people and young at heart alike were delighted with the
popular mascot's personal appearance

Also provided for free by the resort management were Jollibee packed lunch good for three hundred (300) people. . .

This is part of the crowd who lined up for the free goodies. . .

Later in the night, the grand Olaer Got Singing Talent was showcased
(it was so exciting and a post solely for this topic is coming up soon :-) )

My niece Chummy and my apo, Choi. . . the Mom is the active president of Purok Olaer and the one responsible for the very successful St. Raphael fiesta celebration

Good food won't be absent during feasts like this!

light moment with Apopong Bgy. Captain Rogelio Pacquiao and
Olaer Purok President, Aura Kharizma C. Aujero

There's more to come, folks! Please watch out for it. . .

VIVA, SENIOR SAN RAPHAEL!

HUH! Hilarious, Unbelievable High

2010-09-30T15:46:00.000-07:00

This is the reason why bloggers don't seem to get stressed oftentimes. It's because we're always high. High in spirits, high with fun and super exciting activities and most of all, high with an unbelievable camaraderie. We are bloggers and it's fun to be one!

photos courtesy of Mesdames Cidy Bascon and Dimple Dulay!

OWS! Older, Wiser and Sweeter

2010-09-27T05:50:00.001-07:00

A very good friend is turning a year older. He's got everything. . . the looks, the charm and the brains. He is truly blessed and I know he's very happy right now. He is worthy of all the happiness this world can offer because he is not just an ordinary person. He is a man who has made a difference in the lives of many including moi. For this, he's got my respect and admiration.

As you turn older, wiser and sweeter. . . may you continue touching people's lives and continue inspiring us to blog and blog and blog. . . . and for always, please stay happy!

HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY,
MR. ORMAN ORTEGA MANANSALA!

We love you!

from: Arnel, Jinky and kids

My EIB 2010 Win

2010-09-21T16:01:00.001-07:00

I never thought at all that my entry for Ms. Janette Toral's search for Top Ten Emerging Influential Blogs for 2010 would make me $100 richer.

This is a big bonus for me considering that three of my nominees made it to the Top Ten. This is my first ever opportunity to nominate for EIB and for my nominees to be chosen is really a big, big honor. Thanks Ms. Janette!

To the winners, my warmest CONGRATULATIONS!

BIG thanks also for all the generous sponsors of this undertaking. Maraming salamat po and mabuhay kayong lahat!

The Mom Blogger is now a Driver

2010-09-19T05:36:00.000-07:00

I have long been wanting to learn how to drive a vehicle. Owing to my busy sched as a mom and the unavailability of a decent car to to be used in honing my driving skill, the drive to learn remained but a dream. Not until recently when my hubby Arnel and I decided to acquire a second hand vehicle which we think is safer compared to our good old Multicab. It's a Hyundai car used to be owned by a good friend of ours.

I wasted no time in securing a student permit for my first ever driving lessons. Thanks to the good people of the Land Transportation Office in Gensan, I was able to acquire my SP in a matter of an hour and a half.

I was advised by the LTO people to come back after a month to secure my non-prof driver's license.

Meanwhile, under the tutelage of my sometimes patient and sometimes impatient hubby, I am now starting and easily learning the ropes of safety driving. My desire to learn to drive can be compared to those times when I started blogging. I realized that out of learning something new, something good would also come out of it. Most of all, I know I will always get by with the help of my loved ones and friends.

Please wish me luck in my quest to be a good driver, guys!

The Wonders of Furniture Retail Software

2010-09-18T17:02:00.000-07:00

I already have a previous post regarding this furniture retail software. It was laid down there how this upsurge in technology could possibly help my friend in running his furniture business. True enough, it did helped him a lot. Now he's got more time for his family and running his business is now so nice and easy for him.

With this furniture retail software is a completely integrated business solution such as POS, CRM, inventory ,warehousing, merchandising, purchasing, service orders, EDI, A/P, A/R, G/L, Financials, bar coding, Executive Management reports, wireless solutions for inventory and sales integrated and much more. This techie product is designed to help furniture retailing and home furnishing businessmen.

Running furniture retailing and home furnishing businesses can be optimized with the help of this furniture retail software. This could mean more profit and eventually, growth and expansion of your business. It won't be surprising anymore to see people venture into this kind of business with no traces of regrets. What we will be seeing are people with fat bank accounts and happy families for sure. Thanks to the wonders brought about by furniture retail software.

Gensan Tunafest Experience 2010 Roars

2010-09-17T05:34:00.000-07:00

The month long celebration of the Gensan tuna festival is already midway and we could feel and see the thrill and excitement flourishing in our beloved city.

Thanks to the very vibrant partner of the Local Government Unit of Gensan, the Gensan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. for spearheading the Gensan Tunafest Experience 2010. As usual, we could see ingenuity and efforts being exerted to the topmost level for this celebration to become something we, generals, can be very proud of.

Soccsksargen bloggers, again, served as an active partner of the organizers of this year's festivity by bringing and showing to the whole world what's going on in Gensan and what the Gensan Tunafest Experience 2010 has to offer. With mighty keyboards and undying support for our beloved city, we aspire to give our readers the feel that we are really proud of being generals and that Gensan is really going global!

To give you a glimpse of what I'm talking about, please click on the links
below to my friends' masterpieces:

Great post from a great writer;
Truly awesome view of a mom about the tunafest; and
Xtraordinary entry about the Gensan Tunafest Experience 2010!

and to keep us abreast of what's happening and gonna happen during
this festive month in Gensan, do hop on to our Gness' blog!

After going through their blogs, I know just like me, you would also conclude that the
Gensan Tunafest Experience 2010 really, really roars!

Happy Tuna Festival, everyone!

"C'est François Girbaud MARITHE"

2010-09-11T16:27:00.000-07:00

A dear couz gifted me with Marithe Francois Girbaud wallet.

I have long been wanting to own one but since there is no Marithe Francois Girbaud specialty shop yet here in the city, it remained a dream.

Thanks to the one who gave this. Now I have my reason to go next step higher by making sure that this wallet of mine will always be full :-). . . Because if this is not loaded it might transform into a _ _ _ _ _ wallet that may be easier to say but gets drained easily :-)

Friends, C'est François Girbaud MARITHE!

6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. . . to 09.10.10. (ASAP)

2010-09-08T02:26:00.000-07:00

6 - six mighty sessionistas;
5- five star rated artists;
4 - four-tiered excitement (if not the 7th heaven);
3 - three hours of non-stop performances;
2 - two tickets courtesy of Bariles (LOL!); and
1 - a stage to conquer!

Written above are my reasons why I want to be a part as the six ASAP sessionistas conquer the stage of the cavernous Lagao Gym in General Santos City on September 10, 2010.

The ASAP Sessionistas Live in Gensan concert is brought to us by Denville Music and Production and Record Breaker Events Management for the benefit of Dalan Mindanao, MP Foundation and Street Children Development Foundation (Manila).

For bloggers and non-bloggers out there, Gensan News Online Mag has something for us. To take a look at it, just click on this LINK.

This is one interesting event and I hope every Juan or Pedro and everybody else out there will troop to the Lagao Gym on Friday to be part of history!

Please don't forget our date, 09.10.10!

n.b.
Aside from Sitti, Duncan, Richard Poon, Nina, Aiza and Juris, our very own CENTERPOINT BAND will also be performing for us on that very evening, exciting!

So let us all start our countdown, now!

Giving and Learning Life's Lesson

2010-09-05T14:53:00.001-07:00

I realized the importance of donating blood several years ago when four of my daughters were hospitalized because of dengue. I was able to look for possible blood donors but only few were qualified to donate their blood. The anguish I felt during that time was unbearable. The situation made me realize that there is really a need to encourage everyone to donate blood, not only when a relative needs it, but whenever we can!

This brilliant idea of the sox bloggers to come up with blood typing and letting drive made me proud of being a member of this group! The enthusiasm and cooperation shown by the group during the event itself made me prouder . . . and now, am the proudest friend of this man, Mr. Gilbert Y. Tan!

Little did I know that he had been donating blood since his younger years. I was expecting for him to get pale right after the procedure but I was wrong, very wrong because right after the process, he stood up and gleefully announced "gaan ako paminaw!"

How I wish that many people would follow what Sir G has done. To voluntarily give without counting the cost and advocate saving lives by being a good example.

To Sir G, the Philippine Red Cross People, the very active Sox bloggers, the generous sponsors including Robinsons Place for allowing us to use their place - thank you very much!

You all did the thing right by doing the right thing! :-)

*pics courtesy of Mr. Ariel Oclarit!

To Be Young and Happy

2010-08-29T03:14:00.000-07:00

These pics of my daughters, Samantha and Jasmine, made me reminisce the time when I was still young and doing the same thing.

Enjoying the cool waters of Olaer Resort with dear cousins. We used to do this several decades ago.

Nothing beats the feeling of being young and happy! :-)

Influential Blogger: Join the Top 10 Emerging Influential Blogs for 2010 Writing Project

2010-08-29T02:16:00.000-07:00

Influential Blogger: Join the Top 10 Emerging Influential Blogs for 2010 Writing Project

Jinky's Top Ten Emerging Influential Blogs for 2010

2010-08-24T14:58:00.000-07:00

My nominees for Ms. Janette Toral's search for
Top Ten Emerging Influential Blogs for 2010 are:

Ganda Ever So Much
by: Mr. Orman O. Manansala
A banker's blog
(borrowing Ms. Ai ai's words) na kayang buhayin ang katawang lupa ninyo!

Kusina Maria
by: Ms. Maria Ria Jose
An extraordinary Filipina's food and cooking blog
which inspires me to write more about the thing I love to do most, cooking!

Get Prettified
by: Ms. Brendel Balaga
A beauty's blog
on getting and staying beautiful inside and out!

Kikay Much
by: Ms. Donna Mae Congson
A lady entrepreneur's blog on
being hip, fashionista and beautiful!

A Thousand Ships
by: Mr. Armando Nicolas
A handsome traveler's photo blog
of the exciting places he has set foot into!

Akosirabsky
by: Mr. Rabsky Villanueva
A very informative
talented teen's blog!

Alexis Chua
Self-titled blog of a very pogi
techie blogger!

Gensan Gems
by: Ms. Gay Carillo
An interesting blog of
a scientist by profession and a cook by heart!

Plurk Designs
by: Mr. Lyle Santos
All about plurk blog of a very respectable
and admirable blogger!

Mabuhay ang Bagong Kasal
by Ms. Aileen A. De Jesus
An interesting married life blog of a
very popular blogger!

I am nominating these blogs because I do believe and I have high respect for their authors.
Their posts do inspire me to be active in blogging again!

Ms. Janette Toral's co-sponsors for this search for Top Ten
Emerging Blogs for 2010 are the following:

Events and Corporate Video, Budget Hotel in Makati,Pinoy Party Food, Copyediting Services, PR Agency Philippines, Budget Travel Philippines, Send Gifts to the Philippines, Black Friday Deals, Roomrent – units for rent, Search Profile Index, and Corporate Events Organizer.

Let's Stop and Be at Beestop!

2010-08-16T04:50:00.001-07:00

(Credits goes to Mr. Orman O. Manansala for the lovely pics used on this post)

Beestop along Santiago Blvd., with its' exciting new look, reopened to the public last August 12, 2010. At hand to personally welcome guests and diners was, Beestop owner and at the same time chef, the very beautiful Ms. Charlene Enriquez.

The banker and the chef!

Marz, Bariles, Ms. Pilar Afuang (GSCCI Exec. Director),
Jinky and Peter the Pilot

and here are
Beestop's mouthwatering chicken specialties

Homestyle Fried Chicken

Beestop Special Chicken Inasal

my favorite ever since, yummy garlic fried chicken

Food at Beestop is available at very, very affordable prices, I swear! So pay them a visit now and experience the luxury of dining without boring a hole in your pockets.

BTW, they also have branches at Purok Malakas and inside Robinsons Place Gensan.
For inquiries or orders, just dial (083) 301-7911.

Kain Muna!

Furniture Retail Software For Real

2010-08-16T04:30:00.001-07:00

We have a family friend who is into furniture making and retailing business. Through sheer observation, I noticed that running a business like this does not come handy at all. You have to consider the time element and cost of materials, labor, storage, delivery, etc. Despite the intricacy of such business, this friend of mine ably provided his family a simple but decent life. His only regret was he was not able to involve himself actively during his kids' growing up years due to his time consuming venture.

It's a good thing that due to technological advances brought about by this computer age, there is now a better option for my friend in running his business. This is the furniture retail software that could really help him in streamlining the process of his furniture business. Through this software, purchasing, inventory, warehousing, merchandising and all other things involved in his day to day operation will now be handy and easy. He can now save on cost and give himself leeway to make up for the lost time with his kids and family.

The Robinsons Experience: (Blogger) Moms Know Best!

2010-08-10T06:08:00.000-07:00

For moms on the go like me, we regard Robinsons Place Gensan as our friendly neighborhood. . . our comfort zone. . . and to top it all, our family!

This 32,700 square meter supermarket, shopping, specialty services, entertainment and food haven opened to the public on the 4th quarter of last year. Barely a year old but they already have what it takes to best exemplify their tagline "Mas Maganda Dito".

There is this story of a G.I. on the eve of the gulf war wherein a journalist asked why he's not afraid on being in the battlefield. He simply responded with his comrades listening "We are family and we'll take care of each other".

Just like that soldier, I don't have any hesitation on letting my kids roam within Robinsons Place Gensan for I have been a witness of the management's continuing effort to keep their mall child and client alike friendly.

Spic and span restrooms, courteous personnel and quality entertainment are but few of the reasons why our family kept on coming back to this place. We could feel that we are taken cared of while in there because of their excellent facilities and services.

My youngest daughter Jasmine and her Daddy Arnel
after enjoying the afternoon at Robinsons Atrium with her idol, Spongebob!

My kids and nephews after having
their first exciting 3D experience @ Robinsons Movieworld

My kids favorite hang out every Sunday after going to church.
It's at Jollibee Robinsons!

Robinsons Place Gensan is giving me another reason to come back because for the whole month of August 2010, they're having their All-Out Clearance Sale. This surely is good news for all moms like me because despite my tight budget I know I can still go shopping for special items for the whole family.

Here's one more thing that will surely keep me and my blogger friends coming back for more. They are giving their clientele Absolutely Free WIFI Access. In this world where everything is just a click away, Robinsons Place Gensan's initiative of offering this kind of service is very, very much appreciated by people like us. It won't be unusual anymore to see us flocking there most of the time.

My family aside from my beloved family!
I feel very much comfortable with these beautiful people around.
(tnx to Orman for the pic)

By the way, here are some exciting EVENTS to watch out for this August at Robinsons Place Gensan:

August 14 - JCI Spelling Bee Competition
August 15 - SIDE A Album Tour
August 20 - Ms. Skinfluence Coronation Night
August 21 - Ms. Smile Talent Night
August 22 - National Bookstore Scrapbooking Event
August 27 - 29 - YAMAHA Fiesta Exhibit

For further details, please contact:
Mall Administration Department
Robinsons Place Gensan
Jose Catolico Sr. Ave., Lagao, Gen. Santos City
Tel. No.: (083)553-3188

See all of you there! :-)

HR Champs Championing Dreams

2010-08-06T18:16:00.000-07:00

This post is for three awesome HR Managers who have shown to the whole world that they are not just HR bigwigs for nothing!

I am referring to these three admirable personalities who helped in championing dreams using their own big and small steps.

My faithful readers, I'm very proud and honored to
present to you (drum roll please. . . :-)

Mr. Ismael O. Salih, Jr.
HR Manager of Seatrade Development Corporation;
Mr. Anhtony Karl F. Gaspar
Gentuna's man who calls the shot in the HR Department; and
Mr. Audie M. Battad
Cargill Philippines, Inc. HR boss

It's very interesting to note that these three famous HR personalities in General Santos City are all health buffs. An admirable feat indeed because despite their loaded schedules as HR managers, they still found time to run for a cause.

Joining the 34th National Milo Marathon meant being able to help provide one rubber shoes to one public school per city in the different places of the country. Out of the small but remarkable contribution you are able to help talented children who don't have shoes to reach their true potential and be the best that they can be. Simply marvelous!

For this, my two thumbs up, to you Sirs Jouie, Anthony and Audie!

Of Friends and Friendship!

2010-07-30T18:39:00.000-07:00

I am writing this post in honor of a very dear friend I am missing so much. Thank you very much, Glenn! Now I know. . .

Why do I associate Glenn with Gandaeversomuch? Please read on, my dear friends. . .

(photo taken by Peter the Pilot at Kalsangi Clubhouse and Golf Course during Marz birthday)

Marz Bendol's birthday celebration last August 3, 2009 was a significant one. That was the day good friend-blogger, Mr. Lyle Santos, started setting up www.gandaeversomuch.com. Bloggers present there contributed their two-cents worth while the royal gandaness was having almost painless delivery of his latest baby - the blog that made a difference in the lives of many people. That was the birth of our very lovable blog, and I am proud to claim, I was part of its history!

Before Orman's blog was born, there was an important occasion in my life that only now did I realize why it happened that way.

Arnel & Jinky's 17th Wedding Anniversary
June 2, 2009 @ dinnertime
Caico's Resto, GSC

Glenn, my friend, was always present in almost all special moments of my life. While giving birth, christenings, anniversaries, birthdays and other special events which call for a celebration. We were that closely knit. He was even the one who taught me how to use the internet!

While waiting for dinner to be served at Caicos, Glenn suddenly told me to call for somebody special whom we could spend the evening with. It surprised me because usually it's only us together. I never thought that my text messages would get affirmative replies owing to the time constraint. Call it destiny or what but the two Manansala siblings came over and we all together spent the night eating, talking and laughing! When it was time to go, Glenn brought me and Arnel home. While on board his car, he kept on repeating "I'm glad you're happy and you now have many friends to keep watch over you".

Little did I know that he really meant what he said for in March of this year, Glenn was ruthlessly killed with two gunshot wounds from an unknown assassin.

(my couz James, Glenn and me)

I did not only lost a friend but I also felt losing a part of myself. But God is good, really good. He only took away Glenn from me when He knew I can stand already on my own with
the help of people whom Glenn referred
as to be watching over me soon.

To HR Gandaness and all blogger friends out there, thank you so much for the friendship!
Life is still very much worth living because of YOU!

Am I Going Too Fast?

2010-07-29T01:35:00.000-07:00

This text message of my friend, Viki, made my day. I wish to share it with you my dear friends.

When trouble overtakes you, let God take over.

Prayer is the bridge between panic and peace.

Trust god to move your mountain, but keep on climbing!

nice one, isn't it? :-)

Solar Kits Rock

2010-07-29T01:21:00.000-07:00

A couple of months back, our place experienced frequent brown outs. Sometimes for a couple of hours which was bearable and then worsened when it reached twelve hours per day. Due to the prevalence of power interruptions, tempers rose up, businesses suffered and economy worsened.

We now dread going back to those horrible brown out days. Luckily, there are now solar kits to address the problem. Through this, one can charge batteries through sustainable energy coming from the sun. You will be assured of continuous electricity amidst unbearable and unavoidable brown outs.

With this upsurge in technology, hopefully, brown outs will now become a thing of the past. We will be living in a cool environment with well lighted surroundings that will be bringing smiles and sighs of relief to each and every person who already had his/her fair share of bad moments during brown outs.

TIPC SARGEN Officers' Induction Set Tomorrow

2010-07-29T01:16:00.000-07:00

The Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (TIPC) SARGEN Chapter new officers are scheduled to take their oath tomorrow, July 29, 2010 before the Hon. Regional Director Ma. Gloria A. Tango.

Time : 2:00 P.M.
Venue: DOLE SARGEN Field Office, Magsaysay Ave. cor. Saging St., GSC

To all of you, congratulations and good luck!

cheers! Here's to more years of maintaining industrial peace!

Glowing, Growing Up and Aging

2010-07-28T15:56:00.000-07:00

It's hard to acknowledge but in reality, I am getting older!

But if aging means having the opportunity to see your children evolve into better and responsible individuals, then, I don't fear and regret on getting old anymore.

These are my first two babies (Tina and Rafee) sixteen years ago

and now, here they are!

Tina, my second child, is now a BSIT student of the Mindanao State University. A computer techie and an achiever in her own right.

While the ate, Rafee, is a BS Chem with MSE student of the Ateneo de Manila University and now a proud member of the Ateneo Glee Club. I know this is her ultimate dream to pass the auditions and now she did it!

Ahhh, this is life! I am aging but I am beaming with pride and a thankful heart !

Cool Beauty School for All

2010-07-27T23:15:00.000-07:00

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder!

This maxim holds true for every persona. Each of us holds a certain beauty. Beauty that may be physical or something that could not be seen on the surface.

Inner beauty also involves on how we relate with others and our own selves as well. I hereby affirm this if I may speak about my job as a career service worker wherein facing a lot of people from all walks of life forms part of our standard routine.

I see beauty everytime I see my clients smiling from ear to ear after giving them the kind of service they deserve. . .

I see beauty in every person I meet showing optimism despite the very difficult situation they're into. . .

Although sometimes disappointment sets in on me specially if I see people not doing what they preach or people simply not practicing "walk the talk".

Good thing that there is a beauty school wherein things unlearned are being taught for all of us to become better and more brilliant persons. Persons who are all beautiful inside and out.

I know I could be more tolerant next time and I would be able to see not ony the beauty of others but inside of me as well.

Kreative Boutique Opening Day

2010-07-25T06:22:00.001-07:00

KREATIV
owned and managed by the hip and sexy sisters Rosilie Lim and Tammy Nacario
located at the 2nd floor Gaisano Atrium, General Santos City

formally opened to the public last
July 18, 2010!

present during the opening were blogger friends, early patrons and associates of the duo...

imported items such as perfumes, lipsticks, bags, belts, shirts, dresses and a whole lot more can be found at KREATIV!

so if you have time and you've got that
fashion sense... visit KREATIV at once!

the very accommodating Rose and Tammy will be there to assist and welcome you!

beauties (ahem) during the opening
(the author, KREATIV owner Rose Lim and Ms. Gensan Romarie Cunanan)

tnx to Arnel Lim for the pics!

A Dose of My Fave GESM Post

2010-07-18T07:49:00.000-07:00

This may be VANITY, or whatever, for my favorite among GandaEverSoMuch.com's well loved blog posts is about ME. Yes. Mamma Mia, it's all about me!

GESM 1st blogversary is almost here and for the record, it's author, the great Orman O. Manansala has posted entries very much more than the number of days in a year! Indeed, a record breaking feat for a man of his stature.

I am a certified GESM aficionado! I have read 99.9% of his posts for a day without it is not complete for me. I'll surely get a passing grade if we are going to undergo an exam about the entries posted by our master blogger. :-)

In my previous post, I tagged our master blogger as somebody who is so beautiful inside and out. This is very true! Our Royal Gandaness is one person whom everyone wants to be with. He's got that brilliance seldom found in other people. He's got charm!

I had the excitement of a lifetime when I read and saw his post about me when I was hospitalized last year. I had an adrenaline rush then :-) . I felt so important. . . and most of all, I felt so LOVED! Phone calls, text messages and comments came rushing in and that's when I realized how popular our master blogger is. I loved him since then because despite his being so famous, he stays grounded!

On his 1st year in the blogsphere, I wish GESM all the best.
May he continue to spread his healing posts and entries!

Happy blogversary, Boss Orms!

Moing Out? Not Yet!

2010-07-16T19:18:00.000-07:00

It has been weeks since I had my last post on this blog. Not that I don't have time to blog, it's just that I don't feel like doing one. I don't know what triggered this laziness (?) on my part but am hoping this will be over soon. . . .

To somehow wake up the sleeping dragon in me, I decided to start on a new blog designed for a special topic. I hope this wakes me up and inspires to once again, blog and blog. . .

JINKY'S NEW BLOG

A Friend so Beautiful Inside and Out

2010-06-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

If there's one person, other than my hubby, I feel good when I'm with - it's none other than my friend, the author of the very popular blog www.gandaeversomuch.com, Mr. Orman Ortega Manansala.

With him, I feel very much comfortable. With his blog, I get to smile more often and how I secretly wished I was like him!

He's fun to be with. He's got that irresistible beauty and confidence. Indeed, a friend who is so beautiful inside and out.

He's my endorphin-trigger. That's why I have a stress free life now.

He's my cuddly teddy bear. A hug and a buzz from him usually make my day brighter even if we don't see each other that much.

This is Orman and I hope and pray he'll stay this way forever.

Happy blogoversary master blogger! Remember the first time we hung out together? we didn't flew that high ;-) But now, you're the most beautiful and charming flying blogger I have ever known! Proof? please try on this LINK!

Again, stay beautiful, my friend!
Continue inspiring us, your blogger friends. . .
soar high with your generosity and aura of fearless confidence!

A Whooping Two Weeks of My Life!

2010-06-16T04:36:00.000-07:00

It has been two weeks since I posted an article on this blog. It's been two weeks also since our 18th wedding anniversary and the idea of spending a night in a cozy restaurant with my husband has not been materialized yet. Wheeeew! Indeed, these two weeks has been a roller coaster ride of emotions and all for me. One thing, I missed also during this hiatus is of course, blogging!

Barely hours before my hubby's D day, I was at Marco Polo Hotel in Davao City for official business reasons. The experience was something because I was again able to meet a big boss from Manila and it has became a sort of catching up with some good old friends too from the Office where I formerly belonged.

Upon returning to beloved Gensan, the author had the pleasure of being a part of the team who facilitated the 10-day Basic Safety Training for our displaced fishermen. It has been fulfilling on my part even if it meant lesser precious time with my hubby and kids. Even then, I had no regrets because I know what we did was something that gave a glimmer of hope in finding a new job/opportunity for our workers who lost their jobs because of the ongoing fish ban. The activity also enabled me to gain new friends and having the chance of learning a lesson or two from all of them.

After the BST, I was occupied with the needs of my kids for the opening of classes. After almost exhausting all my energy, a very sad event suddenly occurred. My kids pet "Yin Yin" died and the cries and bewailing of my children when we buried Yinyin made my heart bleed.

Another heartbreaking thing happened and this time, I felt numbness all over my body. A cousin left us to join our Creator. Tears flowed, heartbreaks abound, longing feeling engulfed us all. . . But I know everything happened for a reason, reasons we can't fathom as of this very moment..

Yesterday, I woke up with a smile on my face as I saw my basil plants starting to sprout with healthy leaves!

Also yesterday, I stood as witness as two persons very dear to me said their I dos before God. We made it through the event if we're grieving and I thank God for this! Now I realize even more, to feel true happiness. . . excruciating pain or more must be felt also. . .

So many exciting stories waiting to be told...and I thank you dear readers for staying with me through this whooping two weeks of my life. . .

I'll make it up to you asap!

Happy Birthday and Anniversary, Partner!

2010-06-01T15:20:00.000-07:00

pre-birthday dinner with kids and nephews at Piyesta Bar

My beloved husband, Arnel, is celebrating his ___th birthday
and I wish him all the best today!

He's a good father to my half a dozen beautiful children
and a very responsible and thoughtful partner for me!

He supports me all the way
and I'm very grateful to God for giving him to me!

Tomorrow's another special day for us
because it's our 18th anniversary as couple in God's and people's eyes!

Months from now we'll become parents of a debutant
and for this blessing we give to God our boundless thanks!

We also thank God for giving us this not so picture perfect but beautiful life
we thank Him for the gift of friends and good life!

We may not be that perfect
but we're trying our best to be the best that we can be!

Looking forward to spending another eighteen long years of togetherness and bliss
with the person I got married to eighteen years ago.

Happy birthday and happy anniversary, partner!
I love you!

Twin Offerings from Robinson's Place Gensan

2010-05-31T05:28:00.000-07:00

Here's another laudable effort from the management and staff of Robinsons Place Gensan.
Yes, kiddos!
They're bringing in to Gensan the real Shrek and Dora with her friend Boots!

So let us all now get ready with our cams and warmest welcomes for these three adorable characters who will be showering our kids with endless excitement and happiness.

It's a date then! see you there. . .

(special thanks to Ms. Bing Velandria for the items used on this page)

SPECTACULAR SUMMER SAFARI (A Repost!)

2010-05-28T03:55:00.000-07:00

(I am reposting this piece of one of the greatest bloggers of all times,
Mr. Orman O. Manansala)

The SoCCSKSarGen Bloggers will host a Summer Safari for Davao and CDO Bloggers from May 29-30, 2010. Newest hotel in Gensan, Ice Castle Experience agreed to be the Official Hotel of the event and will house our guests for free for two days. Prior to dinner, Manny and Jinkee Pacquiao will serve aperitif drinks at the Pacman Sports Bar. Afterwards, Le Jardin Arnevel will sponsor the welcome dinner at their poolside on Saturday. Piyesta KTV Bar & Resto plays bartender right after dinner. Winding up the night at Coffee Club 101 will surely be a blast. Sunday’s breakfast will be at Dolores Garden Resort before proceeding to Lake Sebu for the great zipline adventure at Punta Isla, who incidentally will host our Tilapia Tanghali Fiesta. Just before going back to Gensan, Merl Garden Spring Resort will treat the group for merienda cena and a tour around their resort. For the final dinner in Gensan, Red Tent Steak House will be the host. Our coffee host for the second night will be Cafe Amoree. Honorable Mayor Jun Acharon, by the way, has provided the transportation needs for the Summer Safari. For the duration of the Summer Safari, Breads and pastries will come from Rollee’s Bakeshop and Bottled water are from Pacman Water. Kuya Chito’s Takuyaki committed to provide pasalubong for each blogger during the last day.

Kudos to the ever supportive Manansala brothers for this treat and BIG, BIG thanks to all the generous and kindhearted sponsors!

Big, Big Kamiseta Sale!

2010-05-26T06:02:00.000-07:00

yes, dahlins! you heard it right! There's an ongoing sale at the Kamiseta store inside the KCC Mall of Gensan. It has been going on since Monday until this Friday. All, I mean ALL, items are up for grabs at 40% off their original price. This, surely, is a big relief for all shopaholics out there. Kamiseta items of all shapes, colors and sizes are available on sale. So what are you waiting for? Let's go and enjoy the big, big sale at Kamiseta! : -) am size L1, just in case. . . :-)

Robinsons Movieworld Rocks My World!

2010-05-22T15:30:00.000-07:00

I am and will forever be a kid at heart!

Receiving an invite for the PRESS LAUNCH of Robinsons Movieworld's 3D Cinema sent me to the seventh heaven for a moment. Having heard a lot about three dimensional films, the invitation got an instant affirmative response from me.

Yessireee, the experience was very well worth it! Nothing beats the excitement of watching a movie in a very comfy place with state of the art facilities. It's already here in Gensan, so Generals, what are you waiting for? Go na, now na! Experience the wonders of 3D film viewing with the whole family in Robinsons Place at a very affordable price.

Showing now at Robinsons Movieworld using the 3D system is the last and final part of the Shrek 4-part series. Again, the movie brought the best out of ogres. Shrek may have been duped but the lessons he learned out of the experience is PRICELESS. I love this movie because it is worth watching and retelling a million times to our young generation and other generations to come.

Special thanks to Robinsons Place management represented by Mall Operations Manager, Ms. Bing Velandria, and their dynamic support staff for the freebies and most of all, for the bloggers' awesome experience of watching Shrek Forever After via 3D technology. Madamo guid na salamat, pipol, you rock!

Movies to watch out for in Robinsons Place Gensan Movieworld 3D screen are: Avatar, Toy Story, Cats and Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore and Despicable Me.

Hope to see all of you there soon!

Mommy D's D Day

2010-05-15T17:31:00.001-07:00

Mommy Dionesia Pacquiao's 61st Birthday Celebration
May 15, 2010
KCC Mall Convention and Events Center
General Santos City, Philippines

The celebrant with her sweetest smile after the traditional waltz and giving of 18 (?) roses

The night won't be complete without Mommy D showcasing her talent ( I admire her stamina and endurance - she had several dance numbers and yet you won't see her gasping for her breath! 'atta mom!)

Mommy D with loving son - Congressman elect Emmanuel Pacquiao
and beautiful wife - Jinkee
(the champ gifted his mom with a set of diamond jewelries - the scene sent everybody in awe!)

the author had the chance of posing beside Mom D's towering cake
by Mix n Magic (magnificent!)
This cake was prepared and displayed with the personal touch of
beautiful sisters Mixie and Sunshine (It's a job well done, mesdames!)

My date, couz James Olaer, with equally handsome former Congressman Dennis Roldan

The author with blogger friends
(Armando Nicolas, Avelman Mananasala and Marzz Bendol)

Sidelights:

- Mommy D's children were all present (Isidra, Liza, Bobby, Bgy. Capt. Ruel and the Pacman)
- Mommy D had several costume changes ranging from yellow green to red, etc. . .
- Mommy D's friends from all walks of life were present to celebrate with her
- Also spotted were PCM candidates who all came in full force
- Media swarmed the Congressman elect when he entered the convention center... while eating, they're all around him
- Younger Pacquaio family members were part of the program hosted by ABS CBN's Joey C
- There was enough food for everybody and the whole venue was bedecked with an assortment of flowers. . . I guess, almost a truckload of flowers. . .
- Our tablemates, Mr. Mandi Nicolas and Ms. Marcia Gonzales together with Mommy D showed their dancing prowess on the dancefloor!

all in all, it was a celebration fit for a champ's mom!

BIG thanks to Mr. Armando PJ Nicolas for the pictures used in this post! tnx Mandi!

Small Steps by Jinky

My Garden's Latest Addition

Fun in the Pond

Mini Tub, Many Uses

Welcome, 2012!

Christmas Cheers from ODC

Tears in Heaven and perhaps Laughters

Of Friends and Christmas

It’s Good To Have Friends

Honeydew for Christmas

Yummy Christmas Present

Merry Christmas!

Banking on Infinite Banking

Raising Tilapia in the Backyard

Try Cymax

I Love Sunset!

Chill for Hot Thai Chilies

Just Sharing

B2B Telemarketing

A Halloween Treat

A BIRTHDAY IN MY SIDE YARD GARDEN

Special Non-Working Holidays

Of Safety, Health and Materials Testing

I'm a Proud Mom of Two Debutants

Enjoying Life!

Oh My Tomatoes!

Of Moon and Prayer

Jinky's 2011 Top Emerging Influential Blogs

My T4th Birthday

A Repost : The Eden Project

A Race with Alcris

My eyes are green with veggies

The Beetles are Here!

The Sideyard Garden

Flooding in the Highway

Life Changing Decision

Of Resort Living and BC Resorts

Photo op of a Lifetime!

It's Mars, No it's Bruno!

Raiding the Scientist' Kitchen

A Blessed Day for Us!

Home, Cows, Sunset

Happy Birthday, Mom D!

This is our Home!

We're Almost There!

April 23 is a Non-Working Day

Back to Where I Belong

Moving On. . . . Moving Out. . . Moving In. . . .

Breaking Silence, Mending Broken Hearts

STOP AND SMELL THE FLOWERS FOR NOW. . . .

Here's Something for a Dear Brother

“Live life so completely that when death comes to you like a thief in the night,

there will be nothing left for him to steal.”

Greetings for the Yuletide Season

This Beautiful Thing Called Life

Merry Christmas!

Moving Out with Las Vegas Movers

I am Voting for Life with Ria

I Dreamt of Tulips

Precious Gold Coins

BLOGFEST 2010

Of Roads and Crossroads

Of Living and Leaving

My Small Steps is now PR 3

Furniture Retail Software for a Better Future

Happy Birthday, Jasmine!

My Small Steps from a Man with a Big Heart

Of Walking and Winning

The Gift of Healing

St. Raphael's Fiesta at OSR

HUH! Hilarious, Unbelievable High

OWS! Older, Wiser and Sweeter

My EIB 2010 Win

The Mom Blogger is now a Driver

The Wonders of Furniture Retail Software

Gensan Tunafest Experience 2010 Roars

"C'est François Girbaud MARITHE"

6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. . . to 09.10.10. (ASAP)

Giving and Learning Life's Lesson

To Be Young and Happy