Day 53



Day 53 - Eric and Tracey Forever 0508



The table where souvenirs were presented beautifully

had a mini chalk board that says,

"If you're posting on Instagram,

please use the hashtag  #etforever0508".

And I thought that was very cute

as this wedding falls on the time of trending.

My friend and batch mate in arriving here in Hong Kong, Tracey Co, got married to Eric Chua at the beautiful location of Kowloon Tong called, My Garden on May 8, 2014.

Weddings are always good occassions to witness. Seeing two people commit to each other in the name of LOVE is always a memory worth treasuring most especially when you have seen the couple go thru it all.

This was a happy day seeing familiar faces supporting the couple and giving them as much love thru music, well wishes and gifts. Old friends never change as we talked about familiar fondness of the bride as how she could turn a rainy day into a bright one. That being said, it was proven true on this rainy day. Even though the wedding being booked outdoors, had to be change into an indoor venue, it was no sweat. Most especially in hearing the bride sing "Thank God I've Found You" in the middle of breezing thru her vow. It gave justice to what the pastor said in saying, "A good husband listens, listens, listens, and LISTENS MORE.'" Hahahaha!!!! It was such an intimate and I'm glad that I was a part of it.

Congratulations to the newly weds and I wish you all the best!!!!

Related posts:

1. HOGAN AND KYTE AUGUST 26, 2013 - one of the happiest days of my life

2. IT'S IN YOUR HANDS - 10 Truths I have learned upon reaching 30.

3. 3 THINGS TO PONDER ON.... EVEN ME - Know the 3 Signs of Spiritual Maturity

Day 52

 

Bus interior late at night

We had a seminar at work that we had to stay back late at night which was not a normal shift. Exceeding any form of expectations, the expats had a service bus to go home to Tin Shui Wai which means I get a free ride home. WHEW! Carrying a baby in Hong Kong is somehow difficult most especially if you're going to commute so it was pretty much a relief for me. But that's not just what made my day today.

The seminar was beneficial to us because it was a way to understand our boss's background more and to understand his capability in terms of developing our company and inspiring us, his subordinates, as the foundation of it all. According to him, being in the entertainment team is the same as being in the front line of giving the guests a great time and something to remember about.

DAVID LIGHTBODY - became a part of Hong Kong Disneyland's management team last year and personally, I noticed him being hands-on on everything. He sees to it that he is knowledgeable of how everything, and I mean EVERYTHING is managed. Being the director of the Entertainment and Costuming Team, he wouldn't mind being one of us. He would immerse himself on how to actually become a cast member of the Costuming Team for example, just to be able to know how it goes about from issuing a costume all the way to where it goes to be washed. So far, I could say, he is an exceptional and humble leader. I have been part of the magic here in Hong Kong since 2007 and back then, we had a former director which I found her always elegant, driven and concerned. As a worker, you appreciate these traits because you acquire strength and inpiration from no other than your superiors. Somehow, you adapt to changes by becoming aware of the differences of a former type of leadership to the present one. And as far as adjustment is concerned, most of us hate detaching from what we have gone used to.

 

http://www.marcuslafayette.com/boards/david-lightbody-ltd/

However, I felt intellectually aroused with how he had presented his passion to theatre, particularly, to Shakespeare. Admittingly, I find Shakespeare one of the most influential, I mean, who doesn't? And I'm sure not only me felt impressed but David Lightbody had urged the entire room of how to stand up for your dreams. It may sound cheesy, a seminar about making your dreams come true. Like a fairy tale. Ha! But hear me out, as he talked about his undefiable want at a tender age to produce his own stage play, his almost "impossible" assignment of bringing Les Miserables over to China and being able to make the musical "Mama Mia" entirely translated in Mandarin? Dreams for our boss can be made come true if you would be more than willing to pursue it. He shared to us a lot about theatre business and he ignited a desire in us to go for what we want when somebody from the audience asked, "Despite the success that had put you in a pedestal right now, for sure you had broken down at some point almost giving up. From a well experienced theatre company producer to us starters, what are the tools that you would impart to us to stay focused in making that dream a reality?" And he answered very simply, "Just know that every problem has a solution. You just have to think about it. There's no measure as to how impossible that solution could be because there's no such thing as impossible. There is a solution if you would look a problem at all angles."

After the seminar, everybody wished there's more time. We all learned a lot from him in just 1 hour and the atmosphere of the talk was inviting. No trace of arrogance in his tone, no hesitations in answering questions from the audience and he is no mutant if you'd look at him explain things. But his CV is. That being said, I am proud to be under his management at the present.

 

Related posts:

1. THE HEAT IS ON - The new cast of Miss Saigon is yet to make a name this May.
2. ELA LISONDRA - A Filipina making her dreams come true as one of the cast of Miss Saigon 2014
3. ARIEL REONAL - A musical theatre veteran who had done a lot for Philippines music and theatre industry and now gracing West End with his participation in Miss Saigon 2014
4. I'D GIVE IT ALL FOR YOU - one of Ariel Reonal's performances
5. CURRENT ADDICTIONS - "Smash", a series that says it all about auditions, swings and everything about musical production.

Day 51



Day 51 - Little treats of being pregnant

Pregnancy is such an enjoyable time for me. I love dressing up (even looking at PINTEREST) for cool preggy looks and every change in my body is hailed, most especially by my husband. He can't help but notice me transforming into a woman and he can't help but voice it out. As a proof of his virility I suppose, he compliments me in his own special way and teases to make me laugh. Odd it may seem but between us, those personal jokes just make mine and my baby's day complete. The attention and support my husband gives are beyond my expectation. And I'll forever be grateful. Both of us parents-to-be can't help but feel EXCITED (LITERALLY) EVERYDAY.

As to much of our anticipation, we see to it that we are ready for everything. Sometimes, we can't help but feel so excited it turns into frustration. Hahaha!!!! Nonetheless, we always wrap up our day with the thought, it's better for our bun to get cooked and done as how it is supposed to. In addition to completing everything we need, we distract ourselves thru sports (my husband) and by remaining stress free (me). So, since my husband is the most familiar with my bodily changes, and he now sees that carrying a baby somehow challenges the mom's self-esteem, he asks me sweetly, "Baby, do you want to go for some pampering? Like in a salon for a make over for your hair or the spa for light body massage?" At first I perceived this as; "Uh-oh! Do you think I need a make over badly?" And then he clarified, "Of course not! I just want you to feel good because I am not sure if you're OK with these changes that's happening on you, physically. I will pay for whatever you want to do." It was my chance.

"Sweetheart, let me think about it."

So I was going over what I could give myself for a treat until I realized I am having a hard time bending over the other day to cut my toe nails so, 'AHA!'

I told my husband right away and so, from 5 months up to the present, I consider going for a pedicure (which is a luxury to do here in Hong Kong UNDENIABLY! compared to the Philippines that I learned to perfect how to do it on my own) when I have to. This just reminds me of how I monthly did it in the Philippines from the time I started earning my own money. This is one treat I never fail to have. But considering the price there for the service, I would have complete hand and foot spa with manicure and pedicure with the price Hong Kong offers it for just both manicure and pedicure. CRAAAAZZZYYY EXPENSIVE!!!! I consider it impractical if I'm going to adapt to that lifestyle here.

So, today, i get to choose Purple as suggested by the pedicurist to match my earthly skin tone.

Related posts:
1. DAY 49 - Why my husband is my most favorite part of the day
2. MY VALENTINE'S GIFT - check out what my husband got me this 2014 Valentine's
3. SPA IN YOUR OWN HOME - Cheap ways in preparing your own concoction, facial scrub and body cream using ingredients within your home.

Day 50



Day 50 - SNAIL MAIL

 

  Technology had affected, is affecting and will affect our lives greatly as this generation of android phones had emerged. 

The way I remember it, there's no such thing as "snail mail" before in the thesaurus. It's just simply  "mail", and by that, it meant "by post' automatically. But since internet had given birth to e-mails, instant messages, skype sessions and alike, mail by post had to be categorized as "snail mail". As the name suggests, it gets delivered slower than the other types and is now less preferred. As a matter of fact, it is quite rewarding to receive something from the mailbox nowadays and that's what my friends had thought of doing today.

OK, a background is necessary. 

When I was still in high school, I was a stationery freak. Meaning, I collected all sorts of stationeries: anime, floral, scented, printed and plain, all kinds and I mean all kinds! I even made a business out of it. In the Philippines, Divisoria malls are homes of buying "ANYTHING" in bulk! So, this is where I purchased dozens of stationery sets as they are prices so low then sell them in our classroom with a much cheaper price as how our canteen, mini bookstores, or stationery stores in and outside the campus offer. 

All of these are just some of the stuff you would see in Divisoria.

Because of this, an outbreak of sending off letters, either a love or a friendly one, had happened from classrooms to classrooms. Taking into consideration how special was the stationery used, or which kind goes with who, it had become an unforgettable part of my youth and I wonder if the future generation will have something similar to this hobby I hold so dear to my heart, to carry on until I had grown up.

You know what I think, I guess none. Something different will evolve I'm sure.

But we have considered a "Project Snail Mail" just to rekindle the joy of receiving something by post. My former stationery mates had come up with this idea and it made me think of the friendships that had emerged thru it. Expression of self this way was all better back then since confrontations are controlled unlike how different social media now let you vent out anything involving people who shouldn't know about your problems. I bet they don't even have the slightest idea of what you were talking about. "Anything" can go out of control. Venting out on your handwritten letters somehow directs what you are supposed to say "only" to the person who is rightful to know about it. That being said, I really am happy reminiscing about how it was in High School. God knows what this could bring us to and all of these are making everything exciting.

Related posts:

1. AGAINST UST - What you ought to know about my university.

2. I SAW THE SIGN - Hailstones in the Philippines.

3. PURPOSEFUL LIFE - these celebrities had gone a long way to help, even at the very expense of their own lives.

Day 49



Day 49 - My favorite part of the Day

Cliche as it may sound, life is too short to be neglectful of simple moments because every second counts. Sometimes, we forget that we may consider our lifestyle subconsciously since it's the familiar activities of daily living that puts us in a "very" comfortable zone. Once something in our routine gets shaken up, we get shaken up as well.

For example, upon waking up, you either reach for the bowl of cereal automatically to have breakfast or take a shower right away. Some have morning rituals such as coffee, a good stretch, a prayer or just merely turning the radio on. Then, you go brush your teeth, gather your stuff, check facebook and turn off the lights as you head to your workplace. You end your day just like how you did yesterday and you come home to prepare a meal or to munch on a take out. You clean up yourself for bed and there goes your day. There goes living life to the fullest, eh!?

Well, today, there's one particular part of my day everyday that I am truly happy about. It's seeing my husband coming home, healthy and smiling like this. He gobbles on the food as he normally does and tells a lot of jokes, or vents out about family or shares what happened at work. Just about anything. And that little window within the day that he shares to me is very much appreciated and this is something that I wouldn't want to be out of my routine everyday... receiving the time my husband gives to me selfishly. Being able to say that time of his is "mine" alone. It is my favorite part of the day.

"To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people just exist."

Related posts:

1. MY VALENTINE'S GIFT - my husband's gift for me this 2014

2. IT'S IN YOUR HANDS... - featuring the 10 truths I have learned upon reaching my 30th year of life.

3. PURPOSEFUL LIFE - Concerned with how the world had become? Start with the man in the mirror.

Day 48

Day 48 - 25 weeks of pregnancy

Today marks my baby's 25th week. Still looking great in terms of growth and development. Her head circumference is just right and she weighs approximately 1 1/2 lb. now. At the end of the second trimester, much of the expected reflexes maybe developed as she is expected to react to her curiosity in terms of sense of touch, hearing and eyesight (but only in perceiving brightness). She is also very active when we were viewing her via ultrasound. Her cheeks look chubby and she has a strong sucking reflex since she always puts her hands on her mouth. It's amazing to see also how she reacts with the cold jelly that she punches. I am beyond excited along with my husband as we watch her in 3d. She even gives us a "Hang Loose" sign with her hands just like how her dad fondly does. Very Polynesian. Her nose is what everybody compliments on. Thank God for a very good result of our check up today.

In addition to that, we were able to make the initial payment for our hospital. Union Hospital has a 4 day, 3 night Maternity Package for Normal Spontaneous Delivery. God be willing, we'll be able to deliver normally with no complications whatsoever. We have booked our hospital, we have booked our gynaecologist as well and we're continuously preparing for "the" day. Mission accomplished and I feel glad and accomplished about it.

 

Related posts:

1. GIVING BIRTH THE KANDU WAY - planning to give birth at home? Check this out.
2. BUCKET LIST - My own list, reassessed and edited for 2014.
3. MOTHER'S DAY TRIBUTE - why parents deserve more than one day for honorary recognition per year.

Day 47



God and His abundant blessings!

It is a luxury nowadays to own your time as how you want to spend it. Today, Friday, with that much of time in my hands, I prepared a good dinner for my husband and yours truly. Our friend, Cathy, had shared quail eggs to us which is rarely seen and sold at the supermarkets here in Hong Kong. I have prepared Pork Adobo paired with sautéed vegetables over garlic and butter.

I consider this one of my happiest times as I feel fulfilled of making my home worth going to. I see to it that we always have a nicely home cooked meal that my family would enjoy because no shelter is as welcoming other than when a home cooked food awaits. It is a miracle that women who comes from an 8 hour job is successful in keeping their families nourished this way even after a day's work. I was brought up this way. And this is one family value that I will always treasure and would be willing to share to my budding little family.

Related posts:

1. DAY 35 - Time for yourself.

2. DAY 27 - SATURATE

3. DAY 8 - NO MAKE UP SELFIE

Day 46



After 6 years, I don't get to work on Labor Day for real.

Labor Day has its many shares of history throughout the whole globe. It is called many names and is honored in different dates. But it suggests only one reason to celebrate: WOKERS EARNING THE RIGHT TO ONLY DO 8 HOURS OF LABOR A DAY, HAVING 8 HOURS OF REST AND 8 HOURS OF RECREATION. Depending on the company you're working for, you should be entitled as an employee to this holiday. As for me, working in the happiest place on earth is quite demanding. The soul of a theme park depends on its attractions and its shows make it as alive as the music and story it shares which is highly expected by the guests. For 6 years, every holiday there is to enjoy means additional workload for us. Understandably, we are one of the most in-demand reacreation place for people who go on vacation. To make it easier to comprehend, we, entertainers of the park, we work doubly hard when all others are enjoying a holiday. We get alternate days for it though so it's all cool. As far as entitlement is concerned, there's no problem with that. Plus we get to see the delight in our guests faces which is enough to keep us going. After all, passion is the name of the game. Today, I honored Labor Day like the rest of the people of the world. Since this year started, I work in the office doing light duty. Right now, I am on my 6th month of pregnancy already. And I am priviledged to experience Labor Day literally with nothing to do but stay at home. Here in Hong Kong, Buddha's birthday is honored too. So, May 3 and a 4 falls on a weekend which are my fixed days off. I filed vacation just for 2 days but combining everything, I get 6 days of rest all in all. Little perks like this can be blissful.

Related posts:

1. 100 HAPPY DAYS - why I joined.

2. Day 43 - Discovering TIMEHOP app.

3. HAPPINESS PROJECT - by Gretchen Rubin, a good read.

Day 45

The Wednesday group (composed mainly of the Hiphoppers of Tomorrowland last year, 2013) was craving for each other's company, some time to catch up and something Korean. TST had yet again become the place to be. Upon hitting Exit B1, we went and book Han-Yang Won Korean restaurant for an 8pm reservation. We had another hour to hit Sixty Eight to buy a friend of mine good lingerie for her bridal shower and the night went all the way good. This was supposed to be an "All-ladies-night but Hogan didn't want to miss a good dinner so he followed over to the restaurant all the way from Mong Kok. I wouldn't mind going to the city for these people. Not only did the food make my stomach ache but the laughter that we all exchanged every now and then can be blamed as culprit. But it was a good ache. Until next time ladies.

 

Related posts:

1.  MUI KEE - our first night altogether
2. BUCHICHOOS - the whole group performing for Halloween in Disney
3. CHARLIE BROWN CAFE - why it should be in your itinerary when visiting Hong Kong

Day 44

Day 44 - BERNA and her refreshing fruits

I have always known Berna for being thoughtful and giving. I remember how she randomly gave me a sleeveless top with a print of a girl holding a pose similar to the Katrina Kyte Dalino pose. I thought it was very kind.

Today, Berna extended her colourful fruits to us pregnant ladies sharing lunch time with parade dancers. I've always loved these pictured above because the explosive juices are just a delight in the mouth. Considering the amount of vitamin C they have as well, eating fruits daily boosts your skin's health as it is rich in antioxidants that help your body get rid of the toxins that make it look worn out and wrinkly. They hydrate your cells as well and it cleanses your colon because of high finer it contains.

Many people are becoming a fruitarian nowadays commenting that it serves them well most especially during the hot months. Now that summer is fastly approaching, adapt a diet that at least includes one fruit each meal.

I forgot to bring my fruit that day but an angel was provided by the Lord above. Hehehe! Berna, you're heaven sent!

Related posts:

1. 100 HAPPY DAYS - what's it about and why I joined

2. MOTHER'S DAY TRIBUTE - a post honouring all the real superheroes

3. GOOD TO KNOW - some information about the right food for the body

Day 43

Day 43 - loving TIMEHOP

It is amazing how this app is bringing a grin to my face every time I get hold of pictures starting from a year up to 4 years ago. It's amazing how you look so different, did so many crazy things and documenting weird stuff just so..... LOL!

Particularly, this day holds a lot of great memories: my sister Khrista visiting us 2 years ago with her husband, AJ; playing dress-up with RM 4 years ago where my arm is freakishly thin and celebrating Denqs birthday over a drink a year ago. Why does this make it to my Day 43? First and foremost, all of these people are dear to my heart. Secondly, these days were so fun that I remember wishing hope those days could last longer and thirdly, Khrista is in the US, Denqs is in London, and my shoes that I gave to RM that day together with will never be mine again.

This may sound deep but today, I realised that you can never predict what's going to happen. That very fact is a blessing itself because that's where HOPE comes from. Imagine if you could know how to go about your day. Wouldn't it be too boring? There would be no sense into living your life if you'd know the outcome. There'd be no words like purpose, drive nor passion. There are so many things that we complain about life such as a bad day that lack thereof will change everything. Because this is what makes us look forward to what's next. Excitement comes in and motivation builds up. The list could just go on and on of what will NOT exist if we can predict what's next in line. Do you agree? Let me hear what is your opinion about it by commenting below or by sending me a personal email.

Be happy everybody!

Related posts:

1. 100 HAPPY DAYS - what the trend is about and why I joined
2. THE BUZZ - planning to make memories for your Spring Vacation this 2014? Check this out!
3. HAPPINESS PROJECT - and the "Rules of Life" are good guides. Read on!

Day 42

Day 42 - REPULSE BAY 

My husband, being one of Team Mushu rowers had been updating me the whole day as I wait at home for good news about the Dragon Boat race held at Repulse Bay. As late afternoon approaches, results had become fruitful. Final results were:

Womens Gold Cup - 3rd

Mens Open Gold Plate - 2nd

Corporate Gold Plate - CHAMPIONS

Mixed Gold Cup - CHAMPIONS 

That just simply calls for my own celebration.

When I was still young, I'd always go for ice cream in a bun since I hate it being too cold in the throat. Got cravings for my comfort food but Hong Kong can only suffice me with these. Vanilla Dryer's, Cocktail Bun (there was nothing larger than it to match the Philippines pan de sal) and 2 big strawberries on the side. Hurray to Team Mushu and to my snack. Very simple, but it made my day.

Related posts:

1. BEING PART OF THE TEAM MUSHU - belonging to the Team Mushu 2013 and participating in the Repulse Bay Dragon Boat Races 2013, my first time!

2. THE BUZZ - Team Mushu competing in Singapore this second week of May. Check out the location and dates here!

3. ARIEL REONAL - "Once a Mushu, always a Mushu!"; one of the key players of Team Mushu 2013 hitting the stage for Miss Saigon

Day 41

Day 41 - Philippians 4:19
"And my God will supply every need of yours
according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

It's another proven moment for me that as I pray to God about some of the little things in my head (that actually when added up altogether make up the worries that make it hard to sleep at night), He extends a helping hand to remind me that He provides.

As I approach my third trimester, it's hard not to get excited about how I should dress up my baby. Most especially that I am expecting a girl. Along with a long list of necessities such as the crib, the carrier and the stroller, sterilizer, bottle feeders, breast pumps, etc., it would be a lot to carry home if we will shop for this in the city. I was thinking before that the good ones has to come from the city or online at least. But one day, as Hogan and I went for a late lunch in the mall connected to our building, the angels sang when we saw this lovely store of baby products. It just opened and we thought there's no perfect timing but now for this to open. We were in awe and we checked it out right away. Complete with what I mentioned earlier, the crib, the stroller, the carrier, we can get it all there. No need to carry purchased ones all the way from the city. Plus, he can actually try to run it himself. There's lesser percentage of choosing a wrong one via ordering online. We were so elated with how God made it so accessible for us. We couldn't help but get worried as the time of birth is so near since both my husband and I share a first time hands on experience marking a huge step in marriage. We didn't realise that 9 months is just that fast. It is also good to know that they sell organic products that is safe for baby's health. I am so sure this store will serve us good. Thanking the heavens for this.

To the other parents out there who have had their share of good stuff that is worth investing on, please do let us know by commenting down below. It would be very much appreciated since we don't know what brand is the best or which models are most useful. We have not purchased any yet except for a wrap around top, topical medicine for colic, burp cloth and a changing pad. This is a list that I have seen online and I don't know if it's accurate or what.

The hospital has some stuff included in the package we went for such as:

(for the mom):
- 2 packs of maternity pads
- 10 incontinent sheets
- 1 cleansing bottle
- 4 ventilated pants
- toiletries
- 1 pair of slippers
- abdominal binder

(for the baby):
- baby album
- Membership of Union Baby Club
- Booklet on neonatal care
- elegant gift for newborn baby ( I don't even know how useful that "elegant" gift is going to be! )

So, yeah, please do let us know what else besides these should we get.

Day 40

Day 40 - healthy food by Jordan

Giving neighbours food to welcome them in the building or the neighbourhood or just to open that channel to getting familiar with basically who are you surrounded with had become out of trend these days but tonight, Jordan had nicely messaged my husband and I if we care for some greens and good healthy food that he had prepared. It doesn't happen everyday that an angel comes knocking during your day just to offer you something without wanting anything in return.

Hogan and I just came home from eating in Jollibee so I wasn't able to eat anymore. I was so full. But Hogan was up for tasting how Jordan prepares his meals so, he tried it and ended up finishing the whole plate. There were roasted potatoes, squash, citrus and green salad sprinkled with walnut to coat the breaded chicken breast to suffice it with protein. He said it was so good.

Thank you so much for this Mr. Jordan Arvan. Maybe if we would eat like you the whole time, we would be as lean as you.