50 Greatest Harry Potter Moments

Here is a list of the 50 greatest moments of Harry Potter Series as determined by fans and ITV, which ran a 2-hour special in UK titled The 50 Greatest Harry Potter Moments.

Glad I'm on leave I was able to watch it on ETC. After, watching this, it made sad just because I know there would be no more Harry Potter movie. Oh well. Time to look back now.

50. When Harry, Ron and Hermione first met at the Hogwarts Express (Sorcerer’s Stone).

49. First Glimpse in the Ministry of Magic (Order of the Phoenix)

48. Ron Received a Howler from Mrs. Weasley (Chamber of Secrets)

47. Mirror of Erised Showing Harry’s Dead Parents to Him (Sorcerer’s Stone)

46. Harry and Hermione was Left by Ron in the Woods (Deathly Hallows)

45. Dobby’s Scenes (Chamber of Secrets through Deathly Hallows)

44. Dementors on the Train (Prisoner of Azkaban)

43. Harry and Ron in the Flying Car (Chamber of Secrets)

42. The Knight Bus (Prisoner of Azkaban)

41. Sirius Black is Harry’s Godfather (Prisoner of Azkaban)

40. Quidditch World Cup (Goblet of Fire)

39. Harry and Ron’s Heated Argument (Deathly Hallows)

38. Gilderoy Lockhart’s Cornish Pixies (Chamber of Secrets)

37. Lupin Turned into Werewolf (Prisoner of Azkaban)

36. Harry’s First Kiss (Order of the Phoenix)

35. Harry was Left at Privet Drive (Sorcerer’s Stone)

34. The Yule Ball (Goblet of Fire)

33. Aunt Marge Comeuppance (Prisoner of Azkaban)

32. Owls Deliver Letters From Hogwarts to Privet Drive (Sorcerer’s Stone)

31. Harry Returns With Cedric Diggory’s Body (Goblet of Fire)

30. Dolores Umbridge Punished Harry Potter (Order of the Phoenix)

29. Millenium Bridge Destroyed (Deathly Hallows)

28. Dumbledore Drinking the Poison to Reveal the Horcrux (Half-Blood Prince)

27. The Seven Harry (Deathly Hallows)

26. The Tale of the Three Brothers (Deathly Hallows)

25. The Chess Room (Sorcerer’s Stone)

24. At Ollivander’s Wand Shop (Sorcerer’s Stone)

23. The Triwizard Tournament – The Black Lake (Goblet of Fire)

22. Dementors in the Underpass (Order of the Phoenix)

21. Harry Conjured His First Patronus Charm (Prisoner of Azkaban)

20. Ron’s Love Potion (Half-Blood Prince)

19. Harry and Ron Turned into Crabbe and Goyle (Chamber of Secrets)

18. Ron Destroying the Locket Horcrux (Deathly Hallows)

17. Voldemort’s Reborn (Goblet of Fire)

16. The Arrival of Beauxbatons (Goblet of Fire)

15. Bathilda Bagshot Transformed into Nagini (Deathly Hallows)

14. Sorting Ceremony (Sorcerer’s Stone)

13. Buckbeak the Hippogriff (Prisoner of Azkaban)

12. Sirius Black Dies (Order of the Phoenix)

11. First Meeting with Voldemort (Goblet of Fire)

10. “You’re a Wizard, Harry” – Hagrid (Sorcerer’s Stone)

9. First Quidditch Match (Sorcerer’s Stone)

8. Platform 9 3/4 (Sorcerer’s Stone)

7. Fred and George’s Fireworks (Order of the Phoenix)

6. Hermione Punches Malfoy (Prisoner of Azkaban)

5. Diagon Alley is Revealed for the First Time (Sorcerer’s Stone)

4. Voldemort Versus Dumbledore (Order of the Phoenix)

3. Dobby Dies (Deathly Hallows)

2. Death of Dumbledore (Half-Blood Prince)

1. First Sight of Hogwarts (Sorcerer’s Stone)

Lakers 2011-2012

Experts say that the Los Angeles Lakers have just started with their ‘Makeover, Limited Edition’. With all the trade buzz going around the community, I guess it's gonna be up and down for my Lakers. Though many people are doubting the Lakers to make the playoffs this year, with this current roster, I believe that Lakers are deep and can still be in the playoffs. Of course, there are the young and exciting Oklahoma City and Wade with his Superfriends in Miami, which were predicted to be in the Finals but they still shouldn't count the Lakers out. I am not expecting a .700 record from them but I guess that they will lose in close games, not blow-out kind of games. As of the moment, the Lakers are 1-2. I think with the new system of Mike Brown, the Lakers are still adjusting and finding the right kind of chemistry. This is gonna be a very exciting season. I love the Wolves, Clippers, and Bulls too. So good luck to all the teams. NBA fans better brace yourselves for something BIG in NBA season 2011-2012. Who will be on top come June? Let's all wait and see.

Wishing and Hoping

Some people believe that when you complete 9 mornings, you will be rewarded. Hmmm. I'm glad I did this year for the first time. What could be my reward? Well I wished for something just to be sure. What is it? =)

Missing Donna Cruz

On my way to the gym, using my old ipod on shuffle, I found myself listening to "Tayo Lang Dalawa" by Donna Cruz. She is one of my favorite singers when I was a kid. I actually have a complete set of her albums. One of my favorite songs of all time is "I can" by Donna,Regine,Mikee from also one of my favorite movies, DO RE MI. I suddenly miss her songs. I can remember during her "Villa Quintana" days, she was GMA's next big thing but then she fell in love and said goodbye to showbizness to focus on her personal life. Now I feel I'm getting older seeing her old videos and listening to her songs. Haha

 

Let me share some of my favorite hit songs of her:

I CAN - as mentioned above, one my favorite song of all-time.

 


ONLY ME AND YOU – a very memorable song for me. When I was in Grade 5, I would sing this in in front of the class in the MUSIC class. Oh cmon! I’m a singer way back. haha.

TAYO LANG DALAWA – very simple, but I like the tune and the "tagos-pusong" lyrics.

ISANG TANONG ISANG SAGOT – very teeny bopper, every kid in Highschool will relate to this. A movie of the same title was released with her and Jason Everly starring in it in that same year. One of my favorite videoke songs.

IKAW LANG ANG MAHAL – composed by Vehnee Saturno and was used in “Esperanza” soap opera before.

HABANG MAY BUHAY - of course, the ultimate inspirational song of Donna that until now many are singing. 'After Image' also has version of this.

KAPAG TUMIBOK ANG PISO - how can I forget? we used this song in our 'Kilos Awit" way back in second year highschool. Very upbeat and cute song.

I WILL BE HERE TO STAY – the inspiring true love song Donna Cruz song for me.

IKAW LANG AT AKO - I like the lyrics and tune. But the note is too high for me to sing in videoke haha.


I could really list many more beautiful songs by Donna Cruz that some are not released on the radio like 'Boy I love you', 'Hulog Ng Langit' and 'Ikaw Pala 'yon'. I really do hope Donna releases a new album. As we all know, many OPM singers nowadays are reviving songs and I don't like it. I know I am not the only one who miss beautiful original songs from this extraordinary talented woman.

 

Goodbye Wonderful 2011, Hello Promising 2012

Wow it is so amazing how time flies. It’s the time of the year again when I do my list of the best things that happened to me this year.

2011 – I can say it’s been good to me. No serious problem at all. Friends and family are still together. Oh, and still no love life... But unlike last year, this time, it’s been a quiet one when it comes to the matters of the heart. Though I met someone, but.. Go with the flow! Overall, yeah, it’s been a great year. I am so looking forward to 2012. What’s my goal next year? I hope that I may finally find “the one” – how many times did I mention this in my annual summary? I hope next year I have reason to scrap this one haha. Of course, my ultimate plan is to try new ventures abroad come June, just waited seven years in the bank. Supposedly, December of this year is my target date but change of plans. Anyway, I am hopeful for good things ahead. For now, I want to list some the memorable events and trips of my wonderful 2011.

A&S Events – The whole 2011 as Green Team Rep, I'm proud that it all worked out.

Bicol – April 20-23 ~ stressful roadtrip but all worth it with all my good friends.

Pahiyas – May 15 ~ family bonding!

Kobe Bryant in Manila – July 13 ~ Kobe's annual visit in Manila shouldn't be missed at all.

PBA NBA All-Star Weekend – July 23-24 ~ once in a lifetime experience I'm glad I've watched the 2 games.

HSBC Live 4 - July ~ K-pop addiction strikes!

Bacolod - August ~ the best trip this year because of the food!

Davao – October 15-17 ~ eat all you can galore trip!

Manila Ocean Park – October 28 ~ thank God I'm with my friends or this trip is worthless haha.

Puerto Princesa, Palawan – November 19-21 ~ of course, surprisingly became memorable to me.

HSBC Mondiale 2011 – December 9 ~ yeah, it was a great party and we had fun during our practices.

Weddings, Birthdays, Dinners, Videoke, Movie Hang-outs, Teambuildings, Get-togethers, etc.

DJ Earworm Mashup - United State of Pop 2011 (World Go Boom)

Coolness. A mashup of the 25 biggest hits during 2011 in the U.S.

Adele - Rolling In The Deep
Adele - Someone Like You
Black Eyed Peas - Just Can't Get Enough
Bruno Mars - Grenade
Bruno Mars - The Lazy Song
Britney Spears - Till The World Ends
Cee Lo Green - F* You
Enrique Iglesias - Tonight (I'm Lovin' You)
Foster the People - Pumped Up Kicks
Jennifer Lopez - On The Floor
Jeremih feat. 50 cent - Down On Me
Katy Perry - Firework
Katy Perry - E.T.
Katy Perry - Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)
Lady Gaga - Born This Way
LMFAO - Party Rock Anthem
LMFAO - Sexy and I Know It
Lupe Fiasco - The Show Goes On
Maroon 5 - Moves Like Jagger
Nicki Minaj - Super Bass
OneRepublic - Good Life
Pink - Raise Your Glass
Pitbull - Give Me Everything
Rihanna - S&M
Rihanna - We Found Love

Missing you

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Melanie Amaro!

 

Yeah this 19-year-old from Sunrise, Florida just won the X-Factor USA 2011 season 1. I think she really deserved to win. After singing Listen and I believe I can fly, she really overshadowed Josh and Chris that night. So congratulations and I hope the other finalists will also had a music career especially Chris and Drew. Next stop ~ American Idol on January.

Most-Watched Youtube Videos of 2011

 1. Rebecca Black - Friday (OFFICIAL VIDEO)
Views: Over 180million 



2. Ultimate Dog Tease
Views: 74million



3. Jack Sparrow (feat. Michael Bolton)
Views: 60million



4. Talking Twin Babies - PART 2 - OFFICIAL VIDEO
Views: 56million



5. Nyan Cat [original]
Views: 53million



6. Look At Me Now - Chris Brown ft. Lil Wayne, Busta Rhymes (Cover by @KarminMusic)
Views: 49million



7. The Creep (feat. Nicki Minaj & John Waters)
Views: 48million

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tLPZmPaHme0

8. Maria Aragon - Born This Way (Cover) by Lady Gaga
Views: 45million



9. The Force: Volkswagen Commercial
Views: 45million



10. Cat mom hugs baby kitten
Views: 37million




11. The T-Mobile Royal Wedding
Views: 25million

Hobbit Trailer

Can't wait!

Check out the first trailer of "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" below that will be released next year:

The One That Got Away

While backing up my files this year on my laptop, I browsed my previous pictures in HSBC and coincidentally the mouse pointed to a folder dated November 18, 2008. And somehow I played along with Kate Perry’s song, "The One That Got Away". 

"In another life i would be your girl, we'd keep all our promises be us against the world, in another life, i would make you stay, so i don't have to say you were the one that got away."

Katy Perry - The One That Got Away

Suddenly, at that moment, all the memories came flooding before my eyes in a split second. I guess because in my life, I made note of a lot of people. Ones with whom I shared something special and those who I will always mean something. Define sentimental - I am. 

So who is my own 'the one that got away'?  

He was great, super gentleman, a very contained person, funny at times, everything was perfect - just my type,  there was no fault in him, our chemistry's undeniably good, but I suppose our stars just didn't align on that exact moment. Maybe he fell for another girl. Maybe I wasn't mature enough to handle such things about love a.k.a jealousy. The wall between us became strong. I hate it. In the end I found myself in regrets. Crying on treadmill is not healthy at all. And we grew separately and everything still doesn't make sense of how it ended up to nothing. To make it worse, I didn't talk about it to him. If only I did then I won't be posting this in my blog. I should’ve told him what he meant to me, because now I pay the price.  Hearing this song is like hearing Adele's "Someone like you" - it puts myself staring to nowhere while whispering these four words that lingers to me - what might have been? 

I know he is not yet married. Of course I know, he's right in front of me everyday. But I heard he's committed to his long time first love. I know his memories will live in mine forever, like what I said in my previous posts, I guess once you loved a person, it will never leave you, you'll just have to accept and deal with it as time goes by. Believe me, you'll get used to it. Just enjoy life and keep praying that you'll meet another someone like him.

We're actually friends. It's hard not to be. Maybe he won't know this, or maybe I could tell it to him someday.

So I won't play this song again. It leaves me thinking, hoping, and wishing.. to turn back time. 

November 18, 2008 -- Ahh. What happened on this date is still very clear to me. How could I ever forget? It is one of my most memorable moments with him. 

Really. He is the one that got away. He is my what if.

Almost, but not quite

The NBA doesn't want to take Chris Paul's talent to Hollywood haha! Oh well. I'm excited for the "Lob City" though. It's a big challenge ahead to my Lakers. Hope to see the improvement of Ebanks, Caracter, and more playing time to Morris. Go for Gold!

X-Factor USA 2011 Grand Finalists

The first season of X-Factor USA grand finals will air on December 22, Thursday here in the Philippines. After following the show since September, it will come to an end this week. The three grand finalists are as follows, with my favorite performances note:

Melanie Amaro

*Listen, World's Greatest

Chris Rene

*Love don't live here anymore, Superstar

Josh Krajcik

*Jar of Hearts, Hallelujah

None of my top 3 bets made it this far as mentioned in my previous post at the start of the show (Drew, Rachel, Astro) but these three finalists are deserving of the spot. Whoever will win amongst them are worth the 5 million contract and Pepsi commercial so good luck finalists!

My Top Videoke Song #3/10: Magmahal Muli - Sam & Say

Umaasang magmamahal muli
Ang buong akala ko'y sya na
Kabiguan ang napala
Panghilom ng puso'y hindi madali
Ang malaman mahal mo'y
Walang pag ibig sayo

Ang umasang magmamahal muli
Syang magagawa
Huwag hanapin ang pag ibig
Ito'y darating
Ito'y darating
Ito'y darating sayo
Hanggang sa tayo'y magtagpo
Sa kabiguan natamo
Kaya ako ay maghihintay
Sa tunay kong mahal
Isipin ang bukas at kalimutan ang nakalipas

Ang umasang magmamahal muli
Syang magagawa
Huwag hanapin ang pag ibig
Ito'y darating sayo
Aking naranasan

Ohhhhhh
Ang pagluha tulad ng sa ulan
Ang umasang magmamahal muli
Syang magagawa
Huwag hanapin ang pag ibig
Ito'y darating

Ang umasang magmamahal muli
Syang magagawa
Huwag hanapin ang pag ibig
Ito'y darating, ito'y darating...
Ito'y darating sayo

Ohhhhhhh... Ito'y darating sayo

Serendipity

During this time of the year, it's so good to watch a movie that will make you believe in destiny and make you feel so in love (even you are not). Yes, destiny - even though I am not a huge fan of it, I still believe that there is someone out there that is meant for you. Serendipity is a feel-good movie with a beautiful soundtrack just in time for Christmas. I love this movie - it will make you laugh, cry, dream, and believe. John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale are perfect together. This movie goes out to all the hopeless romantics. Because of this movie, I fell in love with New York, especially Serendipity 3 which is in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, just across the way from Bloomingdale’s. 

      Wish I could also dine-in here someday..

Have you had any serendipitous moments lately? 

My Top 15 Christmas Songs Ever!

There are so many good songs to listen to during Christmas time. Allow me to share what are the best in my playlist so far. These songs never fail to make the Christmas season so sentimental and extra special. This is in no particular order but #7 and #10 are the best for me!

1. The Christmas in our Hearts album of Jose Mari Chan - songs like "A Perfect Christmas", "The sound of life", and "Christmas in our Hearts"

2. ABS-CBN All Stars - Star ng Pasko

3. Backstreet Boys - Christmas Time

4. Britney Spears - My Only Wish (This Year)

5. Mariah Carey - All I Want For Christmas Is You

6. Jackson 5 - Give love on Christmas day

7. Mel Trome - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

8. John Williams - O Holy Night

9. Brenda Lee - Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree

10. Lea Salonga - The Christmas Song

11. ABS-CBN All Stars - Sa Araw ng Pasko

12. Jolina Magdangal - Sana Ngayong Pasko

13. Kuh Ledesma - Nakaraang Pasko

14. Sheena Easton - It's Christmas All Over The World

15. Atlantic Starr - Silver Bells

9 Mornings

Simbang Gabi in Tagalog, Misa de Gallo in Spanish, 9 Mornings or Mass at Dawn in English is a very popular Filipino tradition during the Christmas Season. It is when Catholic Churches celebrates mass at around 4:00 in the morning for 9 days until the day before Christmas day. 

 

It starts every morning starting December 16th. It is also said that when you finish the "9 mornings", a wish would be granted to you. Of course the faithful believes and hopes that their heart’s desire would be true. I believe in that too but unfortunately I never completed any Simbang Gabi. Besides the celebration of the mass, people look forward to the "simoy pasko" of December since it’s at dawn and of course the yummy puto bumbongs and bibingkas being sold in front of the Church. 

 

This year, I am hoping to complete since I am on leave from the office.. Promise!!!

Goodbye, Lamar!

When I first heard about the Chris Paul trade involving Pau and Lamar, I was shocked and very disappointed. Maybe because they are good friends of Kobe and even if we did not win the Championship last year, I think they still have the chance if this team gets a good point guard. Surprisingly, Stern called off the trade and then the next thing I read, Lamar was traded to Dallas. Oh well. It is sad. Lamar is the most flexible guy in the league. This trade still doesn't make sense to me but I hope Kupchak has his own good reasons. I have a feeling, he has a bigger plan for our team. Good Luck in Dallas Lamar. Thank you. We will miss you.

“Everything. It’s special. Not too many people in their professional lives get to play for an organization that has so much tradition, that means so much to so many people. Anywhere I go, all over the world, people affiliate me with being a Laker, which is a big deal.” — Lamar Odom on what it means to him to be a Laker (March, 2010)

Surprise!

How sweet it is. A surprise from my mom when I got home in Bulacan. She made it herself. =)

HSBC Christmas Party Mondiale 2011

Last November 24, the CEO announced the theme of the our much-awaited Christmas Party presentation - HSBC Mondiale 2011. Around the world? So as green team representative, I set aside my personal things to do during that day to be in the meeting session for the conceptualization of our presentation. Sigh. Haha.

 

practice break with Mody, Chard, and Anj

the whole Green Team gang on our last day of practice

Telephone Girls

For the past two weeks, it's been very busy with all the practices, meetings, and my daily job. Thank God that our choreographers are very patient with us and they are truly super duper nice to us. Mickey, Ryan, Adam, and Dani are the best. I love them. Without them, I think our practices would be so hard and miserable.

I am very thankful to the rest of the Green Team facilitators - Joe, Tinmay, Chari, Abi, and Memon for doing  a good job assisting every matters may it be costume, props, logistics - just to make it through until December 9. Seriously, our effort in 2 weeks are undeniably amazing.

Costume change

with my old friend, Vicky Faye

with Ma'am Gigi PDR and fellow green team rep, Chari

My twin, Glecy with Joe

Then the moment came. December 9 it is. It was a very long day. Work at the morning, logistics, make-up, blocking, practice, costume change, presenting the award, costume change again, then the performance. I enjoyed our dance but I think the other teams really deserved the award. Still, we are very happy of our performance, actually the results are not my concern - it is actually the bond we shared while we are in the practice sessions. I miss them already. Anyway, we dance our hearts out in the party. Good entertainment production.

with uber-nice Mickey Perz

Me and Dani Widjaja =)

of course, can't end the night without picture with our best choreographers

 (truly love them!)

It was a very long night. I slept roughly just 3 hours and woke up very early. I took the buffet breakfast at Sofitel. My gosh it was so good. Nothing beats free overnight stay and meals haha. Thank you A&S 2011 and Goodbye.

Here's the link of our presentation:

A Thousand Years

I like this song from Twilight:Breaking Dawn (Part 1) ending song. It may seem like a sad song, but it is actually a love song. The lyrics are moving. It is about a girl who loves someone completely, and finally found him. I'm truly in love with this song. It reminds me the idea of soulmates, where there is one person you're meant to be with, and when you found them it's like you've always known them and loved them. Sigh. Haha. 
 

Heartbeats fast
Colors and promises
How to be brave
How can I love, when I'm afraid to fall
But watching you stand alone
All of my doubt suddenly goes away somehow

One step closer

I have died everyday waiting for you
Darling don't be afraid I have loved you
For a thousand years
I'll love you for a thousand more

Time stands still
Beauty in all she is
I will be brave
I will not let anything take away
What's standing in front of me
Every breath
Every hour has come to this

One step closer

I have died everyday waiting for you
Darling don't be afraid I have loved you
For a thousand years
I'll love you for a thousand more

And all along I believed I would find you
Time has brought your heart to me
I have loved you for a thousand years
I'll love you for a thousand more

One step closer
One step closer

I have died everyday waiting for you
Darling don't be afraid I have loved you
For a thousand years
I'll love you for a thousand more

And all along I believed I would find you
Time has brought your heart to me
I have loved you for a thousand years
I'll love you for a thousand more

Jolina and Mark Escueta's Love Story

It's just so inspiring to read a love story like this so I want to share. They got married last November 21, 2011. Finally, my former idol Jolens has found his true chuva-chuchu haha!

 

-----------------------------------------

source: pep.ph

Sweet Meeting: Matamis na Saging and Chocnut

It was revealed that Jolina met drummer Mark Escueta at the studio's canteen.

The couple amusingly recalled how they met and how their friendship began. It all started with "matamis na saging."

Mark narrated, "Nasa canteen kami kung saan yung rehearsal ng show. Unang-una ako sa pila. Isa na lang yung serving ng saging na saba."

Jolina continued, "Na-order na niya [Mark]. 'Ayan favorite ko 'yan.' Yung nagse-serve, para sa kanya. Sabi ko, 'ay di bale na lang.' Last na pala yon. Di na ire-refill yon. Sabi niya [Mark], 'Sige-sige, sa 'yo na lang.' Ako naman, 'ay, thank you' naman."

Jolina's mom shared another amusing story. She reminisced, "Nasa Taiwan kami, naghahanap ako ng Chocnut. Bulong ng bulong ako sa sarili ko. "Saan ko ba hahanapin yung Chocnut dito?" Di ko na papansin si Mark pala nasa gilid ko."

Mark explained, "Nagkataon, may dala ako. Pinagbaon ako ng mommy ko."

It just happened that the drummer and the singer-actress fancied each other.

"Kilala ko si Jolina ano siya, parang icon talaga," says Mark. Jolina also admitted having a crush on Mark at that time. She said "Di ko alam, crush na crush ko siya."

The drummer disclosed, "Pagbalik niya [Jolina] sa Manila, tumuloy yung nasimulan na pagkakaibigan habang tumatagal. Tapos, taga Paranaque ako. Siya, taga-Commonwealth. Ang biyahe ko noon, di rin madali. Di na rin kumpleto ang araw ko kung di ko siya nakausap."

Mark added: "Masaya ako nakikita ko siya. Nakikita ko na papunta na kami na isang araw, na ikakasal kami. Maaga pa lang, doon alam ko na doon kami papunta."

The GMA-7 actress then revealed, "Eto yung gusto kong makasama habang buhay...Etong year na ito, naging maraming adjustment para sa akin. Three years na kami pero ito yung year na ito na maraming adjustment na siya lang nasandalan ko talaga na hindi ako ji-nudge. Di pinababa ang self-esteem ko. Di rin naman ako binobola. Pagmali ko, sinasabi niya. Medyo nagne-negative na ako, pinapakita niya sa akin yung bright side."

Through the years, Mark and Jolina's friendship blossomed into a strong and committed romantic relationship.

Mark's Wedding Proposal

When they reached their three-year mark as a couple, the drummer already envisioned spending the rest of his life with Jolina. He consulted his mom when it came to choosing the engagement ring.  He then formally informed Jolina's parents of his intention. 

Mark told them, "Gusto kong ipaalam sa inyo, I will ask Jolina's hand for marriage."  Jolina's mom was in tears and said, "Matutuwa si Jolina."  Jolina's father even told the young man: "Mark, heaven sent ka sa amin. Maiiyak 'yan sa tuwa."

Mark narrated how he proposed to his lady love.

"Nag-propose ako sa kanya [Jolina] sa isang park.  Actually park ng village namin. Actually yung ring, nasa akin na. Di lang ako makatiyempo.  Tuwing yayayain ko siya lumabas sa park, umuulan.  Sa isang gabi, lumabas na yung buwan. Ang ganda ng buwan. Sabi ko, "Tara, punta tayo sa park." Punta kami, kain muna. After, sabi ko, "May surprise ako." Kinuha ko yung scrapbook namin. Naka patong yung scrapbook noong tinignan namin. Di n'ya alam sa dulo, dinagdagan ko yung mga laman.  Yung sa first two pages,  may sinulat lang akong message. Tapos yung third page, may picture ng kamay ko na naandoon yung singsing. Pagsara ng scrapbook,  naandito na yung singsing, hawak ko na yung singsing.

"Tapos, umiiyak na siya. Lumuhod ako sa harap niya, tapos nag-propose ako. Nag-yes siya."

After Jolina read the touching messages from Mark and saw the ring that Mark was holding, she shed tears of joy.

Wish You Were Here

Here I am wishing and praying that you are by my side. It just can't happen for now. I've almost memorized all your messages and seen your pictures a hundred times. Spell I MISS YOU SO MUCH! (It hurts..)

Fast Forward to 2012

I guess 2012 is gonna be a huge year for me. I can feel something is going to change in my life. Here I am reading all the plans ahead and It's really overwhelming. I hope that my instincts and my heart would lead me to the right direction. Well, knowing me, I always follow my heart but this time, I hope it works with the help of the stars alignment. What am saying? Haha. Anyway, everything happens for a reason. Can I just repeat that. Everything happens for a reason. Oh God, guide me. Haha.

One Direction

I love this band formed in X-Factor UK last year. They remind me of Westlife. Harry is the most beautiful guy in the band for me but they are all good-looking so there's no doubt that this group will be chased by the girls audience. I love their new songs "Na Na Na", "What Makes You Beautiful" and "It's Gotta be you".

Made in One Week

There’s a saying that love comes when you least expect it.

Oh cmon.

I can’t believe I will experience these overwhelming emotions this past week. When I thought that love won’t ever come again after all the heartaches I’ve experienced in the past couple of years, here I am again smiling and wondering, it he really the one meant for me?

I don’t believe in destiny in but this case, I think there’s a mixture of fate and coincidence.

I call this entry “made in one week” as everything I am writing now is the result of meeting a guy in one week.

The first time we met, I knew I felt the spark – some sort of magical feeling. Corny it may sounds, but hell yeah. He’s a complete stranger but I felt comfortable in an instant with him after our first conversation.

I’m glad that there is an instant connection between us. I never thought he’ll feel the same way for me too. For him, it was love at first sight. For me, it was love at first conversation. Haha. This was the first time again I felt this to a guy again since 2008.

I don’t want to go into details. To make the story short, after hanging out, talking, spending hours together, meeting friends and family, here we are in a situation we don’t want to be at. It’s time to say goodbye. Yeah, right. Goodbye.

It’s a long story. All I can say is that he’s now a memory to me. One week of love as they say is what I will always cherish. I feel sad but who knows, as they call it serendipity, we may see each other once again in the near future. Nothing is certain especially in love. But I know one thing for sure - that I will forever miss his presence and company.  Am I over re-acting? I don’t care. The hype of this emotional ride is undeniably strong. I always think about him and hope he is just right by my side. But I know everything happens for a reason. Maybe God wants me to think that there is still hope for me to find that one true love. After all, I thought that all guys are the same. This time around, I found the sort of perfect guy but just not in a perfect situation. Still, I am wishing and praying that everything will turn out just the way God has planned it. Love Life.

Oh, Palawan! ♥

The last leg of our sort of WOW Philippines tour this year – Puerto Princesa, Palawan last Nov 19-21,2011.  We arrived in Puerto Princesa Airport around 9:30am via ZestAir. 

Awaiting us is our van that will take us to Tropical Sun Inn. This Inn is not bad at all. I recommend this to all the travelers especially the backpackers. We checked-in and took a rest for around 30minutes then we decided to go to Honda Bay.  

We learned that there we should take or early lunch because there are no restaurants or food stalls in Honda Bay. So w on our way to Honda Bay, we stopped over to “Balinsasayaw” – a restaurant that serves grilled chicken like Inasal.  

It is around 11am when we got to Honda Bay and road the boat that will lead us to 6 islands. Fee here is fixed per boat – P1450 so the more people in a boat the less you will pay. I think one boat can accommodate up to 12 persons. In our case, we are six joined by two couples from Cavite.  

Our first stop is Pandan Island. Of all the island, this is the most crowded because it is where the people can swim. I didn’t know that at first. I thought that I can swim in all six islands so I suggest that if you want to swim, choose Pandan Island, though you can see many starfish in the water. In my case, I only eat halo-halo, listen to music while in Trina’s banig, and made my own MTV (emo mode). We stayed here around one and a half hour then we are off to the 2nd island – the Snake Island.  

 

We thought there are snakes in “Snake Island” but this was really named as it because of the shape of the shore that is like a snake. You can also swim here but the water has many jelly fish so I suggest not. Also, the sand is not as beautiful as Pandan Island. So after strolling in the shore and getting shells, we decided to leave after 20 minutes.  

It is around 2:30pm, the weather is so hot so we all look dugyot. We decided to skip two islands and choose to visit the last two island – LULI and Coral Reef.  LULI is short for “Lulubog-Lilitaw” because it is an island with a private house in the center. During high tide, you can only see it like floating in the water but if it is low tide, it is like a majestic beach. So after taking pictures, we were off to our last Island.   

From afar, Coral Reef is like a Turtle Pagoda. If you like snorkeling, they said that this is the best place to do it. The couple we met dove into the water while we are resting and taking pictures in the Pagoda. We left around 4:15pm so we could catch Baker’s Hill since it is closing around 7pm.  

We are all tired from Island Hopping but we need to go straight to Baker’s Hill without refreshing ourselves. Many tourists are in Baker’s Hill to buy pasalubongs. I can say that this place is like theme park because I can see life-sized Looney Tunes, Snow White, etc characters. We bought their famous Hopia (Ube,Monggo,Baboy) served hot. We also bought choco crinckles and bwonies here. So after around one and a half stay in Baker’s Hill, we decided to go to our Inn to refresh and take our dinner.  

We took our dinner in Kinabuch. It is like Gerry’s Grill only without live band. Actually there is no music at all. So you could here only people talking. If you talk aloud, many can hear – that’s how quiet it is in Puerto Princesa. Our dinner was sumptuous but cheap. We loved it. Around 11pm when we decided to go back and rest as we all need to wake up early the following day for the Underground River Tour. Day one, done.  

Our main highlight of Puerto Princesa Trip is the Underground River. After dinner, we are fetched by the van around 8am that will take us to the river. We are full in the van as we are joined by others. Our tour guide, Ate Mae., is very nice and she knows almost anything about history of Puerto Princesa. It is a two-hour drive from the city so some of us slept. As for myself, I just enjoyed the beauty of the road. After an hour, we stopped over to a pasalubong shop where I bought my red summer hat. After 15minutes, we then continue to our road trip. We then arrived to Ugong Rock where you can go inside the cave and do zipline. We only tried the cave. But we didn’t finished up to the highest point because it struggle for some of us as we are not ready. Some are only in slippers and we thought that it is too dangerous. 

 

So we went down again instead of zipline. Whew, it was really effort. We are all sweaty but then we couldn’t wipe our face. Just look at our pictures so you can see our before and after looks. I actually have pictures where my headband is in my forehead but still I cannot fix it. Haha.  

We are all so tired and in dire need of lunch. So awaiting in Sabang Beach is the buffet lunch. Not bad. While taking our lunch, it rained hard. We are afraid we might not continue to Underground River but fortunately it stopped after around 15minutes. So we are all set. The people in our van were separated into two groups, two boats going to Underground River. From the beach, it is around 10minutes boatride before the River. So as we arrive, we registered and see monkeys and “bayawak” walking around the area.   

After putting our life vest and hard hat, we are ready. Our only light in the river is the flashlight held by Patrick. The tour guide is funny. But as I am inside the river, I am worried that there will be bat poop and urine dropping from the ceiling. I don’t know if it’s water or urine. The river is approximately 20feet. We traveled about 45minutes in 1.2kilometers. The whole 8kilometers is not yet passable since scientists are still studying the rock formations. I don’t know if all the rock formations we saw were natural because they are beautiful like the 3Kings, Candle, Dinosaur, Mangrove tree, mushroom, naked lady, and the best – Jesus’face. Natural or not, I think they are beautiful. But I suggest that the life vest should be cleaned everyday since they smelled bad already it sticks to your skin. After all, many tourists will come and go after being included in the new 7 wonders of the world.  

So we finished and we are set to go back to our Inn. Before we were dropped to our Inn, we stopped over the tiangge to buy pasalubongs. Here I meet a new friend.. =)  

After saying goodbyes to our new friends, we headed to “Noki-Noks” and tried their famous halo-halo. It is like Razon’s but with many ingredients, delicious.  

We are supposed to have dinner in Kalui but the tricycle driver said that it is closed during Sundays so we took our dinner in Divine Sweets which is not bad after all. We stayed here until 9pm and decided to visit their Baywalk where they said we could ride the bicycle. So we rented their sidecar while Chard rented solo bike. It is nice to try this after all. Bonding bonding while under a beautiful night atmosphere. Yes, I can feel it’s Christmas.   

After an hour, we head back to our Inn and packed our things as we are leaving early in the morning the following day around.  

Goodbye Puerto Princesa. Besides being a beautiful and peaceful city, I will never forget that this is where I meet my new friend. I will never forget my Palawan moments.☺