Campus Patrol

I wonder what SSB stands for-- Step away Sons of B*tches??

Last Minute Goodbye

Boracay!!

as i said in my earlier post, i took a mini-break and headed off to Boracay, a tiny island about 200 miles south of manila. although the rainy season has officially begun here in the Philippines, i took a gamble and prayed for sunny days.

the gamble and the prayers paid off because i was blessed with a little shower early in the morning and more than enough rays in the afternoon. i love walking around this tiny island because of the gorgeous seascape and the white powedry sand that never seems to get too hot. perfect for walking barefoot along the beach, i'd say.

what made the holiday even more fun was the beach side mani/pedi i got from one of the island's resident manicurists. such a luxury that cost me just 7USD! it was blissful and i now have dainty toenails to show for it.

the best part about this holiday was that all i did for four glorious days was wake up to go for a walk around the island, end up at our favorite spot (Zeppelin's, which served the yummiest chicken garden salad!)to lay and soak up the sun until i was red and sore enough to wish i put on more sunblock and then choose among the countless buffets and grilled seafood available by the beach! it was amazing.

oh, and yes, i took home a little souvenir from Boracay. i got a tattoo while i was there!

where's your next holiday?

Flying the Friendly Manila Skies

good weather for flying out and enjoying some time off far from the city. one of the great things i love about my city is that it is only thirty minutes away from great beaches and perfect blue skies... more photos of that tomorrow!

Looking In

Sacrifice

This was a photo I took a few days back when I discovered the one quiet place I could be in the metro. True, I love Intramuros, but one hardly ever gets isolated from city life in THE tourism destination of Manila. This photo was taken at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial along the periphery of Fort Bonifacio in Makati City. I love it there because hardly anyone comes to visit the fallen heroes of our battles past. It is unfortunate I know, that no one seems to remember their valor but for purely selfish reasons, I love having the cemetery all to myself. It affords me some time away from the bustle of my everyday life. And on the day I took this photo, I was thinking of sacrifices. Not just of those made by the valiant soldiers for love of country and freedom, but also of personal sacrifices we all make, be it for growth or otherwise.

Some sacrifices are such a burden, some are worth the pain and tears. There are days when I question the necessity of some I have made, both voluntarily and with hands tied behind my back. Some are more of mistakes than necessary suffering but all in all, I am still hopeful that in the end, they make me wiser and open my eyes just a tad bit wider to the realities of my world. What have you sacrificed lately?

Reflecting History

One of my favorite places in manila is Fort Santiago. the prolific writer, Jose Rizal was incarcerated within its walls when he was accused of treason and ultimately executed for it. today, the place is a must see for all Manila visitors. inside the cell that held Rizal is a beautiful inscription from one of his letters to his relatives and friends. i still get goosebumps every time i see it:

A man ought to die for his duty and his convictions. I hold to all the ideas which I have published concerning the state and future of my country, and I shall die willingly for her, and even more willingly for to procure justice and tranquility for you all.

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