LuzViMin

It's zero-fare! And I am in Ninoy Aquino International Airport III again...

Travel date: June 29 to August 1, 2010 and I am about to travel with two companions.

Planned Destinations: Manila-Dumaguete-Dipolog

Round Trip ticket price per person: P92.00

Golden Hour

September 18, 2010 after attending a free photography seminar, got the chance to practice and to be fortunate to encounter that day "The Golden Hour" -- the sunset. This happened after stoop down the bus in Macapagal and walk towards SM Mall of Asia.

Below are pictures taken from my point-and-shoot camera:

Passing through Blue Wave along Macapagal

Sunset at Macapagal

TM Speech Project#3: Pages That Change One’s Life

Life is full of possibilities and surprises. There are things that come when you least expect it, when you travelled the most and with the advent of information technology, change will come even when you stayed at home. Thanks to the Internet, just a tap of fingertips into the keyboard and click of a mouse, you can now do anything such as shopping, ordering foods, watching movies, paying bills and most of all finding your perfect match.

Shooting 101

During our team Building last March 20, 2010. Although it was a day that should be dedicated for our swimming and bonding moment, the plan was not pursued because something happened. Little did we know that the place we rented was also the place where the TV sitcom "Lokomokohigh" will be shooting.

Sierra Madre Team Building

February 19-20, 2010 Team Building at Siera Madre Resort and Convention Center, located along Marcos Highway, Tanay Rizal

The attractions are hanging foot bridge, golf course, and relaxing views of the mountains and greenfields. We rented the private area located at the lower portion of resort in which there were two rooms, 1 small and large swimming pool and 24hr videoke where nobody can hear you even if you have unpleasant voice. This place so relaxing and close to nature. Unfortunately, the planned swimming on the other day was not pursued because of the shooting.

Here's the view of the resort

TM Speech Project #2: It's the Climb

Explorer and adventurer – These are two words that best described me. As I see life as an adventure and a challenge. To me “Life is too short, so I have to get the best out of it” I explored things I never done before. I started doing my passion, to go into places and to experience new adventures. And now, let me share you some information on one of the best adventure of my life. That is to first time experience the life of being a mountaineer. Tips on how they plan, the challenges and the rewards they get in doing the climb. It happened just a few days ago so the memory is still fresh in my mind.

Let’s begin with the PREPARATION
For mountaineers, every climb is so exciting. If you are joining in this kind of event, you need to prepare yourself for the journey ahead. A thorough planning is needed

• Know the area, take a guide with you, and know the weather. – these three were normally planned by the organizer of the climb, the experienced mountaineer
• Bring all the necessary equipment. These include food, drinking water, a jacket, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and extra clothing. Like some people say that when you’re out on an Expedition, you’re at the mercy of the weather. So you must prepare yourself for everything that can happen.
• Waterproof your bags or packs. This is done by putting your things in a plastic bag before putting them inside your bag. That way, if it rains and your bag is not made of waterproof material, the water won’t get through to your stuff. There’s nothing as frustrating as getting your clothes and electronic equipment (like cell phones and cameras) wet by an unexpected rainfall.
• Wear proper Mountaineering apparel. Proper clothing will keep you warm in high altitudes and will allow you more freedom of movement as well.
• And more importantly, prepare yourself physically and mentally. Jog and do other physical exercises before going on your expedition. This will help prevent cramps and other injuries. It is best to do these exercises about two weeks before the big day. You must have a mindset that is prepared for any hardships that you might encounter along the way as well as committed to your goal. You have to be positive, but not overconfident. Just think that you can do anything if you put your 100% into it.

Then THE CHALLENGE

Some may say that Mountaineering is not for everyone and maybe they’re right. Before the journey has begun, I almost think twice. As I begin my step, I realize that the mountain presents me with challenges to either rise to the climbing challenge, or climb down the mountain and go home. Those who are able to rise to the challenge or mountain climbing are rewarded with spectacular views and a feeling that can only be described as a climbing "high." Those who weren't ready to face the mountain have to turn around and go home.

As I step higher, a ton of sweat flowed down from my head to my face. And in my walking journey I meet different kinds of rocks – small, medium, large, name the size and all of those were there a challenge to make me fall. Ouch! Oh my God! Waaahhh! are some words that have been mentioned when someone fall or slide. At times, I said to “Are we getting?” because there is an overacting inner thought saying “I’m gonna die”. The strike of the grass welcomes all those people passing by. And at cold night, heavy winds are there to chill.

Finally, THE REWARD

I find the movement of climbing to be rewarding, simple but with identified purpose. It has usually been an achievement to get there, both physical and mental, and the trust and friendship built with a person who doesn't just come along for the ride, but often literally ties their life to yours, even if only for a few hours. There is a goal that is tangible and easily measured.

The most simple of necessities are earned. The water is better, the food the best you'll ever taste when you make the effort for all to contribute to the meal. We realize the ultimate in teamwork and trust, jokes are funnier and sleep is sound. They certainly can't know what it meant to work hours with friends to level a platform for the tent and a "couch" to sit on and eat dinner. You feel the freshness of the air and the smile of the blooming flowers opened up to brighten a day. There you’ll see the best view of the sunrise and sunset and the best photograph of your life that you never seen in a picture.

To me all the worldly problems disappear. It feels like home. It feels as if life is seeping back into my body ravage from all the stress in life and work. It feels Right. Here, Life's simple pleasures are magnified.

In summary, climbing a mountain takes much preparation, knowledge and skill. As there are many highs and lows in life, “You never know whether you're going to fall off or make it to the top.” I feel the great gush of victory upon reaching the summit. Climbing puts us in places where we can find our own peace, a challenge with best reward.