Her Road To Sunshine

Mel loves to write and likes to take photos. She loves reading more than she enjoys eating, she thinks. She is a tv show fanatic and a film maniac. She appreciates good music and poetry. She hopes to travel for a living with her camera and journal in both hands. This is her road to sunshine where she tries to unravel the mystery of the unknown, one step at a time. All texts and photographs are hers unless stated otherwise.

[theroadtosunshine]

Nope

I don’t think I have a place in this world.

[theroadtosunshine]

November Playlist

I haven’t really met anyone who dislikes music. It is everything. Well, that’s an exaggeration and some people might oppose to that claim, but who doesn’t really like music? 

A song has the power to set one’s mood, lyrics on the other hand can evoke so much memories and feelings to a person. To me, I cannot simply imagine the world without it. Cheers to ABBA for echoing my thoughts even if I wasn’t even alive then, so I say thank you for the music for giving it to me. 

Here are a few songs that I can’t stop listening to lately: 

1. Sleep on the Floor - The Lumineers | 2016

I have always loved The Lumineers. I love how they are able to beautifully weave stories with their music, which reminds me of my favourite author’s writing technique. This song helps me reevaluate my life choices at times. I’m pretty stubborn (segue: Stubborn Love is one of my faves, too) when it comes to decision making... but with the help of this song, I am reminded to carefully think about what I am doing and how a certain yes or no could greatly affect my life. 

2. A Step You Can’t Take Back - Keira Knightley, Begin Again | 2014

I know, I know. It’s not a new song, I have seen the film when it premiered, but I just can’t stop listening to this song whenever I am sad. Sometimes, I would cry for no particular reason. Do you ever feel that way? Mostly, I keep coming back to the scene where Keira sings and Mark Ruffalo just envisions how extraordinary her music could sound. That particular scene in Begin Again is so pure that it rips my heart apart whenever I watch it.

3. I Promise - Radiohead | 1997/2017

Well, to all Radiohead fans reading this... weren’t you surprised when you heard that this song was supposed to be included to their OK Computer album? I mean, the song is 10 years old and it’s only this year that we got the honour to hear it, honestly. When I first heard this song, I could not help but get all too emotional because: a. Radiohead, b. it is beautiful, and c. it made me think about not giving up (on anything, lol). Whenever I would listen to this song, I’d think about my new job. I promise myself to love it, and not give up on it easily. Oh and of course, that other side of the story, too. Flip the coin and you would get what I mean, hopefully. 

4. Audition - Emma Stone, La La Land | 2016 

If you know me, you know I’m a dreamer. I could be an accountant, I could be a teacher... but no. I have chosen to be a writer (still pinching myself because I can finally say that). When Emma’s character sang her audition song, I have totally cried like a baby (I’m aware - this post is basically me just exposing my crybaby tendencies). Anyway, it has resonated to me on a different level especially when she sang the bit, “Here’s to the fools who dream, crazy as they may seem...” because dreaming about what you want is one thing, reaching for it can be a battlefield that could make you, break you, scar you, and make you whole altogether. 

5. Life in Letters - Lucy Schwartz | 2010

Now that I can call myself a writer, professionally, that is... I smile every single time I listen to this song. When I was in college, I would listen to this to remind myself I wanted to write and write and write until I know every single word on the dictionary. I have chosen my life in letters, and I will always thank my sixteen-year-old self for being truthful to what my heart’s desires are. 

What are your favourite songs? 

[theroadtosunshine]

Still it calls me

“Why do you hesitate?” 

“I don’t know.”

If I’m not mistaken, it was a year ago when I watched Moana in the cinemas and I wept like a baby for so many reasons.

I remember watching it with my sister. Supposedly I was going to watch it with my college clique, but that did not happen. I can also remember I was trying my best to hide my crying face from my sister for every sequence of the film. 

Newsflash: I’m not a kid. I’m an unapologetic grown ass adult who happens to have a plethora of emotions. I’m not asking you to deal with it, I’m merely stating facts.

Anyway, I remember getting chills all over when Moana’s grandmother, Gramma Tala, graced the viewers with her presence. She was the oddball village lady. Some may look at that in a negative manner, but to me I felt like she was proud to carry that title herself. Weird isn’t always bad, and I identified to her a lot.

Last night, I couldn’t shake the caffeine off of my system. I could not sleep so I was listening to my Disney playlist [like so,] then I started weeping when I was listening to I Am Moana. For some reason, the song cut something deep inside me. And it was the good kind. It reminded me of the thing I like most about myself. I am fiercely passionate about my dreams and my principles. 

Over the years, a lot of opportunities were presented to me. I took some of them, but deep down I know in my heart those weren’t for me. I knew I can do a lot of things, I can perform tasks that are aligned with my interests, but at the back of my head I knew what I truly wanted to be. 

I am so glad my parents do not really pressure me into doing what I don’t want. Sure, there are times when my Dad would open the idea of me going to Law school and I can’t help but think what a disappointment I am to him; but I digress. My parents support the path I have chosen. I may not be as great as the others who are doing their thing, but I am at least not fooling myself with what I want and I can sleep at night knowing I know what I want. 

I know I can be good at this. I took things my own way. Writing is my calling. In the I Am Moana song, when Moana said, “Who am I?” I love how she was able to clearly identify who she is and what she’s capable of without hesitating. It’s how she was inspired by her grandmother to be truthful to herself, that she was able to recognize in her heart what she’s truly meant to be doing. That’s how I feel.

So please, do yourselves a favor and get in touch with who you really are. I know it’s difficult to know what you want at first, you can’t just magically dig that within you. But once you discover that, please don’t ever deprive yourselves with what you really are passionate about. If you can’t make a career out of your passion, don’t use that as an excuse. If you really love it, you can still make time for it. What’s your excuse for not trying? 

Perhaps a little inspiration could help?

“Come what may I know the way...”

[theroadtosunshine]

Hello goodbye

This year, I got the chance to work for the TV station I was in two years ago. Same position, same bosses, same toxic but fulfilling environment. Two months before the year ends, I was offered a new job. I can't bring myself to refuse the offer because I know I will kick myself if I decided against it. So I left. Again. I don't want to sound ungrateful because I loved my job, I have crafted a lot of strategies and techniques in order to do my job properly, but it was time to pack my bags. A lot of people tried to stop me from going, and believe me, I'm flattered because I must have done something right for them to ask me to stay (especially the President/GM). It's just that at the back of my head, I know I made the right decision to leave. I'm not going to lie, I had a stressful job. But I was fulfilled. I will miss pestering the Producers about promoting their shows. I will miss interacting with the netizens. I will miss answering to the queries. I will miss the responsibility of representing the TV station digitally. I will miss snoozing my alarm clock every 30 minutes so as not to miss the stressful class suspension announcements. I will miss the citizen journalists. I will miss being sort of a channel to get the people informed. I will miss the newsroom. I will miss the feeling of being able to help other people. I will miss the long-ass, but a lot of food for thought meetings. I will miss my crazy, but wonderful officemates. I will miss my old work... But I am not going to pretend that I am not excited for the path ahead of me. The future is looking bright as can be. 💛

[theroadtosunshine]

The Ultimate Adventure of a Lifetime

In case you did not know, my year has already been made because I was able to watch Coldplay in Manila in their A Head Full of Dreams Tour. 

Are you scratching your head wondering why after almost three months, I am still alive? That’s because of them. 

Many moons ago, I promised myself I will watch Coldplay no matter what happens. The idea was far-fetched then because they have never been to the Philippines. I conditioned myself then that I will go overseas just to see them play... Welp, not until November 2016 happened. 

Novemeber was when MMI Live announced Coldplay will be coming to Manila. I had no qualms, I did not complain about the shitty venue. All I wanted was to secure a ticket for myself, whatever it takes. I could afford to purchase a VIP ticket (heck, my parents were all for it), but it wouldn’t be practical for me. I regret that now, but I wouldn’t trade my first ever Coldplay experience for the world! To cut this ticket pre-sale story short, I got to secure a Gold ticket!

APRIL 04, 2017 | Tuesday

The face of a first-timer. It was my first time to ride the MRT. I expected that it was going to be a horrific experience for me, but to my surprise there were no lines and the girls are separated from the boys. Arielle took this photo because she was making fun of me. Haha. 

We decided to check in at Hotel 101, which is just six minutes away from the venue. I wasn’t expecting much, but the hotel is really nice (and always tidy, which is a bonus.) 

I was so bummed that security did not allow GoPros, but I was there for the concert anyway. When we entered the venue, I was frantically looking for Bea and luckily we did see each other before the concert started. 

It was a long wait and my feet got tired, but it did not matter anymore when the clock struck 9:30pm.

Truly, it was an adventure of a lifetime. As soon as I heard Chris sing “Oh, I think I landed in a world I have not seen...” I was like, same! I was jumping along with the crowd. I was so happy because the people who we were surrounded with were obviously huge Coldplay fans as well, most of them knew the lyrics to every song. We sang together, we hushed together when Chris sang Everglow, we partied to Paradise, we wept together when he sang Fix You and The Scientist, we collectively raised our hands in the air and cried when Yellow played. Every song was a highlight. Every second was monumental. The day was Magic. Always In My Head. Inked permanently in A Sky Full of Stars. I will never forget his song for Manila. We don’t deserve Coldplay!

To Guy, Jonny, Will, and Chris, you all are amazing. You don’t just have talent, you’ve got a lot of love to give in this world. Thank you for making wonderful music and spreading love, kindness, positivity, and unity all over the universe. You make us believe in love.

This blog post has got nothing on the Coldplay experience itself, but it will do.

We wanted more, but that was enough magic for that night. I’m sure we will see them again. 💜💙💚💛❤️

If you are interested to skim through the video I made for Coldplay, please click on the link: goo.gl/E86Nbo

[theroadtosunshine]

Never underestimate the power of a mute button, friends!

[theroadtosunshine]

Hey

Do I still have readers? I bet I don't. But I'm keeping this blog anyway. :) Keep writing, y'all.

[theroadtosunshine]

Constant rebuttals

“We’re impossible,” I said.

“It’s doable,” you smiled.

We kept on going on and on about this, and yet I knew deep down I already knew you were right.

We are possible, but there’s always the buts.

“You’re wrong,” I countered.

“I wish I could make you strong,” you answered.

I wanted to prove you wrong, I don’t want to hold on to this. You make it so difficult for me to just drop you like trash.

Because you’re far from being it.

“Let’s stop talking about this,” I sighed in defeat.

“If that’s what you insist,” you shook your head.

And this just goes on and on like a cycle; we waste each other’s time being stubborn instead of trying to work things out.

It’s not your fault, it’s mine.

You should leave.

[theroadtosunshine]

The Agony of Waiting

If you ask me if there’s beauty in waiting, in not knowing, my initial response will be no because I am an extremely impatient person. 

I don’t like not knowing, I don’t like not getting a response. I’m antsy and impatient because if nothing works out for what I plan, I want to move on. I want to know what my next move will be. 

Trivial questions drive me nuts when in the back of my mind I know the answer, but couldn’t say it out loud, which is why I thank God for Google every time. 

Update: I told you guys 2017 will be my year. It’s February and I already feel like blah. I haven’t really applied for jobs, but I’m kind of waiting for something right now. I haven’t gotten an answer for it yet, which is why I’m growing really frustrated. I realize now life doesn’t become magically wonderful for anyone. People don’t get to be successful overnight. You work hard for it, which is why it is true that life is what we make it.

I won’t wait on the world to just push me whenever an opportunity comes, I need to push myself. This is my life, every decision I make would lead me to where I am. To where I am going.

I don’t want to be stagnant. I don’t want to start over every time. I hate being idle. I want to keep moving, I don’t like to whine anymore. 

Here’s hoping for a better tomorrow and getting feedback. 

[theroadtosunshine]

Hanging on to Hope

2016 was rough.

Saying that is an understatement. Personally it has been a really bumpy ride for me, not to mention all of the horrible things that have happened in the world. I can’t believe such things (you know what I am talking about) can happen and what’s even more terrible is a bunch of people letting disgusting stuff happen on their watch. 

Is the world just growing apathetic every passing year? I really hope not. I believe in people. I still believe in humanity as jaded as I am.

Having said all that, I’m still grateful for all the experiences and challenges I’ve encountered throughout 2016. I worked for Sephora and I became a writer/researcher for Sports Illustrated. How can I not be proud of those things? A lot of my articles got published and I’m really proud of that. Always grateful to those who trusted me, y’all know who you are.

That’s my name! That’s my article!

I turned 22! It’s a scary thought, but what are you gonna do? 

I really feel like each year our friendship just grows stronger. Thanking my lucky stars for my beautiful friends since 2009, my PF. 

The chance to hang out once in a while with my college clique. Everyone has been busy, but always thankful for every single one of them. 

Kind of sad that I didn’t get to hang out with these two a whole lot on 2016, but we’re still as close as ever. They’re my soulmates for life (shut up, not in a romantic way - those two aren’t available) :P

My two constants. Life’s extra happier when I’m with them and I will protect these two at all costs. 

I watched the Twin Pines, Elle King, Thrid Eye Blind, JAMES BAY, PANIC! AT THE DISCO, AND THE 1975 live!!!!!!! Definitely one for the books because they’re my favorites I’m still crying thank you MMI!

We went to Singapore on 2016! We did a lot of eating and shopping and walking and immersing ourselves with their culture. I can’t wait to go back!

Back in Hong Kong after 9 years! It was truly nostalgic because we stayed in the same hotel, but it was better now because my sister and I got to really explore. We’re definitely going back not just because of Disneyland, but also for the reason that it’s magic there. 

GIRL GIRL GIRL IF YOU KNOW ME THIS IS PROBABLY THE HIGHLIGHT OF MY 2016. NO KIDDING. You guys have no idea how much I’ve earned this ticket, I swear I could make a whole blog post about it. BUT I AM SO HAPPY THANK YOU AGAIN MMI YOU’RE A WISH GRANTING FACTORY... OR COMPANY!

Above everything, getting to be with my family is the most important thing for me. So blessed to have such wonderful and supportive parents and a kind and caring sister. They helped me survive 2016 lol 

Through it all, no matter how much chaos I’ve experienced, what I learned is that there will always be calm. Last night our power went off 3 hours before 2017 kicks in. My sister and I thought it wouldn’t come back, but thank goodness because the power company went to our house and got our power up. 

It’s the perfect metaphor for New Year’s Eve. In every darkness, there’s light. I know I will try my best for 2017. I know I can make it. I read from a status of a friend on Facebook that we should stop complaining or whining. I don’t agree to that. Any form of heartbreak is valid and we just have to learn to empathize with people. Learn to help out and never dismiss the thought that anyone needs your help even if they don’t tell you; just like you also need help at times. Being kind will not cost you a dime. Have confidence in people, have confidence in yourself too. Fight for your dreams.

So here’s to a new year, to new beginnings. Let’s kick some ass this year because we can all make this! I believe in you!

[theroadtosunshine]

Why Do I Write, Anyway?

I feel like what I write here mostly are just ramblings of my life. 

I only write when I'm sad, frustrated, or elated. Don't get me wrong, I like writing because I want to be able to empathize with others. I love the idea of being able to know that someone can relate to what I am going through, and I think that's the beauty of writing. No, I don't like that you're in pain or whatever, but I want to be able to convey to you that we will be able to surpass this. 

http://ow.ly/yTsT305gcug

I have never done anything spectacular if we're talking about writing. I have been blogging since I was in high school, but I mostly write for myself and hope some readers would be able to find some sort of solace with my writing. I don't write for anything in particular, my blog is basically a buffet of my feelings and that's it. I'm glad I am still able to keep this blog running even if I don't post a lot, (working on it, by the way.) 

Career-wise, I write for Sports Illustrated Philippines. I enjoy what I do, but I feel like what I write about is limited to a certain topic alone, which to me is kind of frustrating because I have so much to share. But I like what I do.

I still feel inadequate, if I am being honest here. I am in no way a brilliant writer. My thoughts are always scrambled, but even so I love that I am able to write. I know I'm not good enough, I know I still have a lot to improve on, and I think it's good for me to think this way. I don't want to proclaim I am great at something, because then I'd feel like I don't need any room for improvement and I will feel stuck. 

I need to always look onwards. Never backwards. On to the next thing. 

Want to know what's even more frustrating about me? I'm scared for others to read my stuff, which makes me question why I even write in the first place. I like to believe I'm not scared of a little criticism, that I should just shrug it off or learn from them, but truth be told I am scared. But that's okay. I should learn just to take it and take comfort with the fact that everyone gets showered with criticism every single day. 

Onwards, never backwards.

I also feel like I have never truly expressed here what my ultimate goal is. I always write about how I want to write... 

But, what is it really that fuels me to write? I want to write my own novel. 

http://ow.ly/sGSk305gdpS

There, I said it. I want to have my own book published. I don't want to write it for the sake of being able to tell someone I've written a book and waste trees. I want to be able to be actually proud of it. I'm not trying to cajole or fool myself with my own words, I sincerely want to publish my own book and influence those who read it in my own ways. That's my dream. 

What am I doing about it? I have been developing a plot in my head for about two years now. I started writing my novel since 2014, and I'm on Chapter Eighteen right now. I'm nowhere near finished with it yet, and I'm not even sure if I will continue it or just start from scratch again. 

Not too certain as to how I would be able to pull this off - of course I am not just going to wing this, but I promise myself I will be able to produce something. Something that doesn't resemble a trash, hopefully. 

Keep dreaming, friends.

[theroadtosunshine]

FACING MY FEARS: My mySKIN Experience

I’m not really the type of person to improve my physical features. Heck, I don’t even get my hair cut when I have to. I don’t schedule any appointment with any kind of doctor, be it health or well-being, I don’t get hopped up on beauty products and self-improvement mumbo jumbo, and my hygiene is as basic as shampoo and soap. Nothing more, nothing less.

Not to mention the fear of hospitals or any other clinic-typed service for that matter. Hate it. I hate the fact that I’m scared of being treated. Something about those places give me the creeps you know? It’s just eerie.

That is until I was stricken with seborrhoeic dermatitis a couple of months back.

To put things simply, seborrhoeic dermatitis is dandruff not just on your scalp, but on your face. Basically covering like 80% of your head. Your face and scalp start to itch as scaly flakes present itself and they never seem to go away. The burning sensation would wake me up and scratching only seem to make it worse. I keep thinking to myself, it’ll probably go away in a week.

But it didn’t.

My worst fear has just been realized. I really didn’t think I would have this kind of problem you know? Gone are my dreams of becoming a flight attendant. Well, not really. I never thought of becoming a flight attendant. But now I can say goodbye to that possibility of that ever happening.

The pain was unbearable. I knew what I had to do.

I had to get a professional opinion.

I was referred by a friend to go to this place in Angeles City called mySKIN. I was reluctant of course, I’m pretty old-fashioned, always thought I never needed any professional care but my friend insisted they weren’t your average derma-clinic. So I agreed to check it out.

Now, I’ve never visited a derma-clinic. I just didn’t think I needed to you know? I never really had a problem with my skin. Barely developed any pimples in high school, oil build-up was minimal, and my blackheads weren’t even visible up close. I thought I was blessed. Turns out I had to pay for thinking that way. But hey, I’m only human.

I went inside their clinic and let me tell you, it is unlike anything I’ve ever seen. I felt like I was checking in a 5-star hotel. You know the feeling of hospitals or clinics where it’s always somber and it reeks of hopelessness? Yeah, you won’t feel that in here ever. The atmosphere of their clinic is overwhelmingly positive and the vibe is just surreal, I can’t help but be impressed. Not that I had any references, but it was just good energy the moment I walked in. Like I wasn’t scared of getting bad news.

I didn’t have to wait long for a doctor to greet me with her warm smile. I can feel her confidence radiating from her. It’s amazing. I knew right there and then I can put my life in her hands and she’ll never let me down.

So shout out to Dr. Lorelie Nagrampa-Baluyut. You’re awesome but I’m sure you already know that.

The amount of care they put in making sure I’m comfortable is, well, comforting. I was surrounded by people who genuinely care for my well-being and are doing their best to make sure I get top notch treatment.

She explained to me what was wrong with me and I sat there pretending to understand some of it and I never felt more relaxed. She told me what I had was actually common among people who work in constant stress and it is nothing to worry about. To be honest though, I was relieved the moment I walked in there.

She gave me skin care advice and prescribed me some meds and sent me on my way. That was that. Nothing scary. Nothing presumptuous. Dr. Lorelie taught me that skin care is just as important as any other care you think might think needs more focusing. Our physicality is what we bring to the world and if we don’t take care of ourselves, how do we expect to be treated? Respect begets respect and we should respect our skin if we want to gain respect.

Now, I think my face is better than before. No really, who knew I would feel this good if I had just taken care of it? It only takes like 5 minutes of my day. I look good and I feel good! I feel confident, and it all came from facing my fears. I don’t know if that pun was intended but oh well.

Thank you mySKIN and Dr. Lorelie! You’ve broaden my perception of this whole thing and I will definitely be visiting soon. And thereafter that.

If you guys want to check it out, and I highly suggest you do,

mySKIN clinic is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays. It is strategically located at Mabanta Arcade Lot 15 & 16, Mac Arthur Highway, Balibago, Angeles City. For consultations and inquiries, please call 0922.825.7546.

[theroadtosunshine]

Photo Diary: Singapore Day 2

Our second day and first full day in Singapore started pretty early. As mentioned from my previous post, we stayed at the V Hotel in Lavender. The hotel’s strategically located to a tourist’s convenience, and I love that about our hotel. We had our outdoor breakfast at the hotel breakfast buffet, and I must say I was really pleased with the feeling of eating breakfast outside as we breathe in the fresh and pollution-free air of Singapore. Even if it was a sunny day, I didn’t mind getting blinded by the sun because it was just a lovely morning with my family.

We took a long train ride then bus ride to get to the Singapore Zoo. Kuya Roy, my cousin’s husband, grabbed us tickets to see and enjoy the shows there. I was surprised to see a lot of tourists considering the time of year, and I enjoyed walking around and watching the shows although it was a bit humid. It was a Saturday so the zoo was packed, and the taxi queue was long and it almost took us an hour to get one. No regrets though as it was fun observing how disciplined everyone is, and how everything's in place and no one gets to rudely snatch a cab from one another. All is fair for everyone.

And now, for the grand finale! Sephora! Kidding aside, we went to ION Orchard to check out some shops… mainly Sephora. Lol. Part of the reasons as to why I wanted to go to Singapore was Sephora, and I’m not even kidding you. Lol. My cousin and I were texting each other in the morning and she told me that we should go to ION Orchard after we went to the zoo because there was a Sephora there. (In the back of my mind, I already knew this. Fun fact: I did some work for Sephora Digital so I knew where ALL the Sephora branches are. :P) Not gonna lie, we were there for an hour or so because I had to check out all their stuff. And so did my Mom. After which, we went to see other stuff around and grabbed a cab to head to Gardens by the Bay come late afternoon.

Again, my mom wasn’t up for all the walking and she didn’t want to go up and so we took with us our little nieces, Sabrina and Sofia inside Gardens by the Bay. I couldn’t help but get giddy about how everything is made beautifully, and I enjoyed looking at the flowers, cacti, succulents, garden art, and the architecture of the entire garden. I was bummed that my parents couldn’t join us and it was kind of a handful having to watch two little girls, but they’re extremely adorable and I had a blast sharing those moments with them.

My sister and I took every opportunity to take photos whenever there are no tourists and even locals! around. 

Evidently, I was tired when I took this photo. But hey, we get it Singapore. You’re pretty. We had dinner at Satay by the Bay, which I don’t have photos of because I was so exhausted then we had to head back to the hotel because everyone has already had too much awesome for the day. :)

[theroadtosunshine]

Photo Diary: Singapore Day 1

Out of the blue, our family decided to go to Singapore. My Dad has just gotten back from his work abroad and he asked us to book a flight. We decided to book the dates July 8 to 11 even if it was kind of spur of the moment. Between my sister and I, it’s pretty obvious I was the one who’s lazy to pack. She did the packing for me the night before our departure and I thank her for that. I hate packing, but hey we’re going to Singapore!

We woke up a little early to go to the airport and whatnot. It’s a good thing the Clark airport has a Park and Fly service, so we didn’t have to hassle anyone to drive and fetch us there. Admittedly, we don’t fly a lot (except for my Dad) because we don’t like to travel without my Dad and obviously because he’s always busy with work. Luckily, everything went perfectly for us and since my parents are senior citizens, they didn’t experience any inconvenience.

We boarded a Cebu Pacific plane, which to my surprise was on time. The almost 4-hour plane ride was fine, except for the part where I can hear a kid cry from time to time. That isn’t really surprising anymore and it didn’t really bother me, thanks to the Spotify mix I prepared before boarding. 

Finally, we touched down to Singapore at around 4:30pm. I just had to take a mirror picture at the Changi International Airport’s bathroom because I was floored at how beautiful it is and how organised people are. I was just kind of surprised when we reached the immigration because the guy who I had to deal with was a bit rude, or maybe that’s just how he is. Anyway, even if I was displeased with him he kind of offered me a smile when I had to go. He probably was just having a bad day, maybe. 

Someone met us from the airport and he took us to V Hotel, our place in Singapore for 4 days. I was happy to see him because he seemed friendly and he has been joking around the whole time. It took 20 minutes for us to get to the airport, and traffic wasn’t really bad in Singapore (plus everyone drives really carefully there!). Check-in didn’t take a long time for us, our rooms were already prepared when we got there. Sadly, my parents’ room and the room I share with my sister aren’t adjacent -- but that wasn’t a problem. For those who are planning to go to Singapore, V Hotel is the place to stay because the MRT is just right outside the hotel, and there are taxis everywhere. If you’re a foodie and you’re always hungry, it’s not a problem because there’s a food court there that’s open 24/7. If all else fails, you got McDo and Burger King. 

After we fixed our stuff, my cousin Ate Gaye met us at the hotel. Her family lives in Singapore and my cute little nieces and nephew joined us as well. For the first time in a really long time, I rode the MRT! (Trivia: the first train ride I took was in Hong Kong, and I’ve never ridden the train in the Philippines, ever.) My cousin lent us cards to pay for the train rides. I was cultured shock at first since I don’t really ride trains, and for Singaporeans at the escalator, they keep left to give way to the people who are in a hurry. Everything was fast-paced and advanced, and I love that.

Mom and Dad with my cousin’s children, Sofia and Penny. They’re the cutest! 

My sister and I at the Merlion Park. Also seen at the picture is the Marina Bay Sands. The park was quite busy because it’s rush hour and there are a lot of tourists as well. Not really the best photo that we could take, but sometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do.

We did a lot of walking, but I didn’t mind even if the weather in Singapore is almost the same as in the Philippines. I was actually wearing a backpack and I felt safe from walking around at night. Kuya Roy, my cousin’s husband, met us during dinner. Ate Gaye took us to Makansutra, which is like their banchetto. If you’re up for Indian food, Malaysian food, Indian food, and Singaporean food, they have it all here. The cereal prawn is a must-try!

Before heading back to the hotel, my cousin took us to the Singapore Flyer. Fun fact about me is I’m terrified of heights, so I was kind of on the fence about getting in to the ride. I didn’t want to disappoint my sister so I mustered up all the courage I have to get in. Sabrina, my cousin’s eldest daughter, joined us as well. 

I was so glad that I didn’t decide against riding the Singapore Flyer because you could see almost everything from up there. The city lights and the beautiful architecture of the city made me really giddy about exploring it more. We made the right decision in booking a trip to Singapore instead of Hong Kong because we can always go back to Hong Kong. I must say though, I’d be down to going back to the Lion City in a few years, or months? Who knows. It’s a beautiful place!

[theroadtosunshine]

I’m Still Here

I took a hiatus, yet again, from blogging. 

Source: http://ow.ly/b3af302l1bn

I did not stop writing, I could never stop myself from writing. The thing is I didn’t really want to share most of my thoughts to anyone. Some of my writings are meant for myself, and I probably just had a moment. I don’t know where I’m going with this post to be honest, but I’m doing fine.

Just a little update about my life in case you’re interested (or you have exhausted all the reading materials in the world and you’re stuck with this, my apologies): 

I stopped boxing, I found out I like running more. 

I try my best to avoid worrying about my future, but I will never stop to think about what it holds.

My family is still awesome.

My friends and I do not see each other as much, but that’s how adulting works. We make time, though.

Corn and carrots are my favourite sides.

I enjoy my solitary time, I still get enraged about how some people think it’s sad to be always on my own.

It’s mid-July and I still listen to Christmas songs, and my family’s gladly supportive of this.

Oh, I got a writing job! I write for a really awesome company, but I am constantly dreading the fact that they might want me out someday. Soon?

I still think my writing sucks, but it’s what I know.

Japanese food is still the best.

I’m still bad at texting, and I still hate incoming calls.

I’m still aching to take up Film, not in this country, but some place alien to me. But that dream’s far-fetched, at least right now.

My anxiety hits whenever I hear a ping from my email account.

I stay at home. I go out with my family all the time, which is cool right now because I love spending time with them.

There are days where I just want to run away, to get away from all the routine I have been so accustomed to, but mostly these are just thoughts.

I find myself using the British slang, and spelling in British English ever since I worked for people who adapted the British slang. It’s odd for me to spell colour without the ‘u,’ lately.

I discovered I hate listening to new music, and I got stuck to the 2008-2012 era. I do know the new releases, though.

There’s so much hate in this world, I always wonder when and how it’s going to stop, and how I can help.

I’m hopeful about our country, if I weren’t, I’d probably just stop caring.

I probably have read the same book I’m reading since May thrice. 

I despise people who can’t follow the rules and are inconsiderate.

Queues are fine as long as people aren’t smelly.

Street Lights by Kanye West is my jam.

I’ve spent too much money on makeup. At least my parents did.

I need to earn a lot of money because I have a lot of goals.

I’m still unsure what my favourite colour is.

I’m constantly thinking about ways on how to make my parents extremely proud of me.

My family still thinks I should take up Law, I think otherwise.

My main goal right now is to love what I do and be strong enough to fight for it. 

I don’t have a bad life. I learned that this is my pacing. I don’t have to be pulling my hair out just because I don’t have it all figured out yet. I’m fine, but i’m going to get better. Like I always tell myself. 

And so are you. See you on the next post!

[theroadtosunshine]

Life Is Messy

And you probably already know that. 

http://ow.ly/aN2w300f1s1

Tonight, one of my friends who I’ve always been so worried about asked us to meet her. On the way to dinner, she wept a lot inside the car. She was almost screaming. If I weren’t just riding shotgun, I would have hugged her. I wanted to grasp her pain because it hurt me so much to hear her cry like that. 

When we got out of the car, she was okay. She’s her usual bubbly self, she told us about her problems and assured us that she’s okay. We also let her know that we’re always going to be available for her. I really hope she knows how much we mean that. We’d be there for her in a heartbeat. 

It was all resolved and we ended the night on a happy note. When we dropped her off to the bus stop, she’s even hesitating to go because she sounded like she wanted to talk more. It made me happy when I realized that when the first time we saw her tonight, the air that we shared was heavy, but when she got out of the car after seeing us, she’s all cheery and positive. I know it’s not going to stay that way, but at least we got to hear her out. It was a good night. 

But unfortunately, it did not end there.

http://ow.ly/G7a0300f1VS

One of my friends told me about her situation as well regarding her ex. This friend that I have deserves the world. And it pains me to know she’s in this kind of mess right now. She’s so far away from me, and all I can do is text her and let her know I’m always here. I know I can’t take away her pain. I know how much she feels. My only hope now that in time she will be okay and that she will let herself to be happy. 

I hate it when the people I love are hurting. If only there’s a way to share their pain, I would.

http://ow.ly/qEww300f2W0

I hope that in the future, no one will dare to hurt another soul anymore. Sure, life gets to be more wonderful with all these hurdles, but I just hope that we all choose to be careful and consider one another’s feelings before we do something that could damage them. 

A couple of years from now, I hope we will all just be laughing about this. 

[theroadtosunshine]

Second wave

I really want to write. And write and write and write until I give it my all. I quit work. Writing is my thing.