Another long overdue post, as usual.
So anyway, back in August (wow, this post is like 3 months late HAHA) Jem and I decided on heading out for a quick getaway from the city life. Since we didn't really have a large amount of money and only have limited time, we decided on heading back to Kaliraya Surf Kamp for some outdoor adventure!
Tuesday, October 31, 2017
From South to North: Laguna, Rizal, and Antipolo!
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Location:
Rizal, Philippines
Thursday, September 7, 2017
Diary Entry: August 31, 2017
I've been inactive for a while now because I don't really have something worthwhile to talk about (or so I feel) but I guess I needed to let this one out even if it will just be here. It's been one complete week since I went out to seek assistance somewhere in Rosario, Pasig.
I was scheduled for a quick, which turned to a long, meeting last August 31 since it was the only opening the person I was meeting had. I called to schedule a meeting probably 3 weeks before that date so that's how in demand she was. Typically, I would have chickened out the last minute, but because of the support I received and how the logical side of my brain coaxed me in continuing, I entered and waited inside her little, homey office.
I found out about her with the help of a very close friend who asked another friend of ours. I was hesitant on calling the number given to me, thinking that I might end up wasting both her and my time by dropping by. Hours passed before I finally gave in and dialed her number using the phone inside our tiny, yellow office. Her secretary answered on the third ring and asked me a few questions and informed me of the next open schedule. I confirmed for an afternoon meeting on August 31; conveniently, it was our pay day and the start of another long weekend.
A day before my schedule, I asked my manager if I can take the day off due to medical reasons. He didn't ask anymore than that and agreed. I slept at Jem's house the night before since I needed to take care of another thing early in the morning. We probably only had 3-4 hours of sleep because we were talking 'till late at night.
Morning came and we both got ready. Him for his duty in UST Hospital and me for my big day ahead. After finishing my agenda in UST, I quickly headed to her office. I felt the drum of my heart with every step I take to get to my destination and the cold sweat that ran down the line of my back. I was scared. Then all of a sudden, I was already in front of her office. Sitting on a black plump sofa. Already waiting for my turn.
I texted Jem that I wanted out but he insisted that I should go since I was already there. He sent me supportive messages and I left it at that since I know he too was busy with his duty. When I felt that my knees were turning weak and my hands were sweating profusely, I stepped out and decided to eat at a nearby food stall to calm my nerves.
I returned right after and waited patiently for my name to be called. Since I was scheduled after her lunch break, I was able to take a short nap on her very comfy sand-colored sofa. There were a number of people waiting like me when I opened my eyes. Not long after, she came out of her office with a stack of folders in hand and called for my name.
"de Leon? Justine de Leon?" she announced.
I got up, "Yes po," I said. She smiled and ushered me inside her office.
Her office was filled with natural light. Really, the artificial ones didn't really help at all. There was a big book shelf on one side with a space that serves as her table and two big sofas situated on the middle back of the room. Between them was a brown coffee table. I couldn't help but look around her spacious office and observe every single detail because I needed to calm my steel nerves.
She gestured for me to sit down and she followed suit.
"So," she started, "how can I help you, Justine?"
An incomprehensible sound came out of my mouth followed by a short, embarrassed laugh.
"I honestly don't know where to start..." I replied.
But even after saying that, I was able to open up to her. My woes and all the negative thoughts I had clamped up inside. We probably talked more than what time let me feel. I walked out of her office after an hour with 2 prescription papers on my hand. One with 3 copies since she told me that pharmacists are heavily strict on that particular medicine.
I was diagnosed with depression.
And I have to take 2 prescription medicines to help me. Along with the feeling of depression, anxiety and panic attacks are very common so these two are also being addressed by the medicines given to me.
I've been taking my medicines for the past 6 days. The first time I took it, I felt like my head had weights attached to it. Not long after I took it, I was dead asleep on my bed. I was woken up the following morning by our dog, Aina, jumping on me. That was the longest sleep I had for the past few months. Before, I usually wake up in the early morning hours, usually around 3AM and get back to sleep by 5AM.
I searched for the side effects of the medicines I'm taking and mostly it says that I'll be feeling sleepy. Indeed I feel sleepy for the entire day. Thankfully I don't feel tired at all but just really, really sleepy.
Since it's only going to be a week since I started taking my medicines, I haven't really felt any changes with my psyche lol but hopefully, soon I'll be seeing any.
I'm scheduled for a follow-up this coming September 30 so I guess that's something I kind of look forward to.
'Till then!
I was scheduled for a quick, which turned to a long, meeting last August 31 since it was the only opening the person I was meeting had. I called to schedule a meeting probably 3 weeks before that date so that's how in demand she was. Typically, I would have chickened out the last minute, but because of the support I received and how the logical side of my brain coaxed me in continuing, I entered and waited inside her little, homey office.
I found out about her with the help of a very close friend who asked another friend of ours. I was hesitant on calling the number given to me, thinking that I might end up wasting both her and my time by dropping by. Hours passed before I finally gave in and dialed her number using the phone inside our tiny, yellow office. Her secretary answered on the third ring and asked me a few questions and informed me of the next open schedule. I confirmed for an afternoon meeting on August 31; conveniently, it was our pay day and the start of another long weekend.
A day before my schedule, I asked my manager if I can take the day off due to medical reasons. He didn't ask anymore than that and agreed. I slept at Jem's house the night before since I needed to take care of another thing early in the morning. We probably only had 3-4 hours of sleep because we were talking 'till late at night.
Morning came and we both got ready. Him for his duty in UST Hospital and me for my big day ahead. After finishing my agenda in UST, I quickly headed to her office. I felt the drum of my heart with every step I take to get to my destination and the cold sweat that ran down the line of my back. I was scared. Then all of a sudden, I was already in front of her office. Sitting on a black plump sofa. Already waiting for my turn.
I texted Jem that I wanted out but he insisted that I should go since I was already there. He sent me supportive messages and I left it at that since I know he too was busy with his duty. When I felt that my knees were turning weak and my hands were sweating profusely, I stepped out and decided to eat at a nearby food stall to calm my nerves.
I returned right after and waited patiently for my name to be called. Since I was scheduled after her lunch break, I was able to take a short nap on her very comfy sand-colored sofa. There were a number of people waiting like me when I opened my eyes. Not long after, she came out of her office with a stack of folders in hand and called for my name.
"de Leon? Justine de Leon?" she announced.
I got up, "Yes po," I said. She smiled and ushered me inside her office.
Her office was filled with natural light. Really, the artificial ones didn't really help at all. There was a big book shelf on one side with a space that serves as her table and two big sofas situated on the middle back of the room. Between them was a brown coffee table. I couldn't help but look around her spacious office and observe every single detail because I needed to calm my steel nerves.
She gestured for me to sit down and she followed suit.
"So," she started, "how can I help you, Justine?"
An incomprehensible sound came out of my mouth followed by a short, embarrassed laugh.
"I honestly don't know where to start..." I replied.
But even after saying that, I was able to open up to her. My woes and all the negative thoughts I had clamped up inside. We probably talked more than what time let me feel. I walked out of her office after an hour with 2 prescription papers on my hand. One with 3 copies since she told me that pharmacists are heavily strict on that particular medicine.
I was diagnosed with depression.
And I have to take 2 prescription medicines to help me. Along with the feeling of depression, anxiety and panic attacks are very common so these two are also being addressed by the medicines given to me.
I've been taking my medicines for the past 6 days. The first time I took it, I felt like my head had weights attached to it. Not long after I took it, I was dead asleep on my bed. I was woken up the following morning by our dog, Aina, jumping on me. That was the longest sleep I had for the past few months. Before, I usually wake up in the early morning hours, usually around 3AM and get back to sleep by 5AM.
I searched for the side effects of the medicines I'm taking and mostly it says that I'll be feeling sleepy. Indeed I feel sleepy for the entire day. Thankfully I don't feel tired at all but just really, really sleepy.
Since it's only going to be a week since I started taking my medicines, I haven't really felt any changes with my psyche lol but hopefully, soon I'll be seeing any.
I'm scheduled for a follow-up this coming September 30 so I guess that's something I kind of look forward to.
'Till then!
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Journey to Central Luzon: 3D2N Bataan Trip
A very long overdue post!
Jem and I had been visiting various places during the month of June since Jem's duty was scheduled to start on July 1. Yes, my baby is already a clerk! *huhu so proud* anyway, so for our #hulinghurit, we've decided on visiting the historical province of Bataan!
Jem and I had been visiting various places during the month of June since Jem's duty was scheduled to start on July 1. Yes, my baby is already a clerk! *huhu so proud* anyway, so for our #hulinghurit, we've decided on visiting the historical province of Bataan!
Mt. Samat, Bataan
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Location:
Bataan, Philippines
Wednesday, June 28, 2017
Laresio Lakeside: Resort for the Adrenaline Junkies!
Every once in a while, Jem and I look for some sort of activity which would pump some of our stored adrenaline; like watching a suspense film (mostly I do it alone) or going to the amusement park. This time we decided on visiting one of the rising destinations in Laguna, Laresio Lakeside Resort & Spa!
Wednesday, June 21, 2017
From Sur to Norte: 3D2N Ilocos Trip (Pt. 2)
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Location:
Ilocos Region, Philippines
Monday, June 19, 2017
From Sur to Norte: 3D2N Ilocos Trip (Pt. 1)
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Location:
Ilocos Region, Philippines
Tuesday, June 6, 2017
Weekend Warriors at Mt. Batolusong, Rizal
So I was feeling down for the past couple of months and I needed to find a way to channel out all my negative thoughts and transform it into something useful. I thought, "what better way to distract my pessimistic mind by tiring itself out, right?". So on May 26, I posted an invite to my Facebook friends if they're up for a day hike at Mount Batolusong, Tanay, Rizal!
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Friday, May 26, 2017
Shopping Centers in Singapore
I felt like this post took soooo long but anyway, here we are again! This will be my last installment about our trip to Singapore. For every trip, may it be local or international, what we eventually look for are the places where we can buy some pasalubong for our very expectant family and friends. This has been engraved within our culture and I don't think this is going anywhere anytime soon.
CHINATOWN!
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Saturday, May 20, 2017
A Day at Resorts World Sentosa
For the 2nd day of our stay in Singapore, we decided that we'll just spend it mostly inside Sentosa. Along with the plane tickets and the hotel accommodations, the raffle also included a free pass to three of Resorts World's attractions; Adventure Cove, S.E.A. Aquarium, and of course, Universal Studios!
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Location:
8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
Wednesday, May 17, 2017
Sightseeing in Singapore
As what I have said on my previous post, getting around Singapore will be the least of your worries because of their highly efficient subway system (wish it could also be implemented here in the country). So days ahead, I have researched everything I needed to know about this transportation system. The key to saving as much money as you can while going around this country is to avoid taking taxis and ride their trains (plus you also get to experience how the daily lives of Singaporeans is like!).
SMRT train
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Monday, May 15, 2017
de Leons' goes International!
Travelling had always been my passion. I could say that I see this as my escape from the daily routine of waking up early to head to the office, and spend most of my day there, before wrapping things up to go home. So the moment we learned that my tita was picked as one of the lucky winners of Jollibee's raffle, I knew I would never let this opportunity go down the drain!
View of Resorts World Sentosa from the Sentosa BoardWalk
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Singapore
Wednesday, May 3, 2017
Overnight Stay at Kaliraya Surf Kamp
Weeks ahead, Jem and I had been planning on going to Potipot Island in Zambales for an overnight stay. We were supposed to do this during the super long weekend but since we no longer had the budget and time, we decided on roughing it out on nearby provinces instead.
I was wearing shorts, I swear :))
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Tuesday, May 2, 2017
Quick Trip to the North: San Felipe, Zambales
Having the Philippines host the 30th ASEAN Summit was not only a blessing for the Philippine government but also to Manileños and Manileñas. Having to suspend work and class for a Friday and having another holiday come Monday next week means a SUPER LONG WEEKEND we all crave for!
Basking in the beauty of the sunset
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Sunday, April 16, 2017
SUMMER IS HERE: 3D2N Stay at Cagbalete Island
We've all been busy for the last few months and I know everyone is looking forward for the most awaited season, next to Christmas, summer!
Over the past few weeks, Manila had succumbed to the mind numbing heat brought about by the summer season. So what can a good ol' Manileña like me can do? What else but to retreat to nearby provinces to relax and unwind, of course!
Over the past few weeks, Manila had succumbed to the mind numbing heat brought about by the summer season. So what can a good ol' Manileña like me can do? What else but to retreat to nearby provinces to relax and unwind, of course!
The beautiful Cagbalete Sandbar ;)
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Location:
Cagbalete Island, Philippines
Friday, March 31, 2017
Not a Bunch of Photographers, just 2 Hobbyist!
Since Jem and I had been doing some random photowalks for the past few months, little did I know that my aunt would notice it and actually ask us to be the photographers for their mini photoshoot!
By the second week of March, my aunt approached me and asked me to assist them along with Jem (since he was the owner of the camera HAHA). The photoshoot was scheduled on March 25, Saturday, at the La Mesa Eco Park located somewhere in Novaliches, Quezon City. I informed Jem about this and he immediately agreed.
Still, I warned my aunt that we are just a bunch of hobbyist! Still learning the ropes of photography through Google and some guidance from our photographer friends.
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Wednesday, March 29, 2017
Meet Our New Family Member
I've always wanted to have a living, breathing pet ever since I was small. Too bad my mom doesn't like the idea of taking care of another living, breathing something aside from me. I think it was because I already was too much to handle :)) Whenever I asked for one though, she always compensated by buying me fishes. All throughout my childhood we had a small aquarium inside our house. I guessed we stopped having one when my mom realized that it was still quite high maintenance (my mom is like that).
Luckily though, the place we live in is infested by cute, little cats. We had a number of unofficial pet cats when I was a child. There was Lucas (which I don't remember why I named him that way), then Ming-Ming (which we later placed on a box along with her numerous kittens, she's quite a whore LOL, and placed in an abandoned land... I was crying the whole time), then Mary who all of the sudden stopped dropping by our house, and now we have Garfield, the chillest unofficial house cat we ever had.
We had another development though. My aunt's friend offered her a free puppy last month and we happily agreed to take it home! I was sooo excited to meet it that I kept asking her every Sunday (it was her church-mate) if where the puppy was. Then on one fateful Sunday as I was doing our laundry, my aunt called from somewhere as she was walking home. And on her arms was a tiny, brown, SUPER CUTE puppy!!!
Luckily though, the place we live in is infested by cute, little cats. We had a number of unofficial pet cats when I was a child. There was Lucas (which I don't remember why I named him that way), then Ming-Ming (which we later placed on a box along with her numerous kittens, she's quite a whore LOL, and placed in an abandoned land... I was crying the whole time), then Mary who all of the sudden stopped dropping by our house, and now we have Garfield, the chillest unofficial house cat we ever had.
We had another development though. My aunt's friend offered her a free puppy last month and we happily agreed to take it home! I was sooo excited to meet it that I kept asking her every Sunday (it was her church-mate) if where the puppy was. Then on one fateful Sunday as I was doing our laundry, my aunt called from somewhere as she was walking home. And on her arms was a tiny, brown, SUPER CUTE puppy!!!
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Sunday, March 26, 2017
Not Ready
Guess I'm back again with another travel-unrelated post. Or anything-exciting post.
I honestly started blogging because I was looking for a medium to express my thoughts and emotions. I am not a very social person; like, seriously, NOT a very social person. I don't even consider myself on the level 1 of being a social person; so imagine what I feel when all my frustrations builds up inside. Anyway, I'm writing this post now because I might have come face to face with something I am totally not ready for. It started on this day, Sunday of March 2017.
As always, Jem and I planned our day ahead. We were supposed to meet up at EDSA - P. Tuazon so we could travel back to their condo and engage in our weekly gym routine. Prior to that, I was supposed to do our weekly laundry. But after waking up at 9 in the morning, my body kept on telling me to sleep the day off and to not go outside... I instantly thought of my previous breakdown but immediately brushed it off thinking that it was probably just my laziness acting up again.
But then my head started aching. Both of my temples began pounding as if syncing with a tune I couldn't hear. Then it got worse. The ache encircled the back of my head and all I could think of was the pain I was feeling.
I immediately told my mom I couldn't do our laundry and she told me that she'll just do it herself, albeit it would only be their clothes. A bit disappointed since I will still have to do my own laundry, I got back to my room and laid down, thinking that a bit of rest would make this headache go away. At around quarter to 12, Jem pinged me on FB telling me he wouldn't be able to fetch me at our meet-up place since his mom asked him to register her on one of Nike's weekly run. I wasn't able to reply since my mom called me down to eat our lunch.
Still thinking that this headache of mine would disappear after I fill up my empty stomach, I hungrily munched on my home-cooked special mongo that my step-father prepared. Since I started feeling that the pounding on my head began fading, I decided to head out and go to Jem's condo. I booked a Grab Car since it was already a bit late and I didn't want to commute under the scorching heat.
The moment I stepped on their condo, I felt that my headache returned, and much, much worse. I told Jem that my head was pounding and he apparently offered me to take some meds but I didn't hear him. We went straight to the gym after fixing some of our stuff and began our cardio. With every exercise, the pounding in my head started getting stronger and stronger. After our warm-up, I felt like all of my blood traveled up to my brain as if helping to increase the pounding that was already too painful to handle. Jem settled me on one of the gym equipment and ushered me to rest instead.
I tried my best to take even just a short nap so I can free myself from the pain even for just a short while but I wasn't able to. I got up after 30-40 minutes or so (it was only after that that I was able to move) and told Jem that I'll just be lying outside near the swimming pool, thinking that the fresh air would help me. Jem finished his routine for another 10-15 minutes before going to me and helping me up. I actually needed his support. as well as the walls', so I could walk to the elevator.
When we got back to their condo, he gave me a paracetamol and asked me to wash up so that I could feel refreshed. Release my body from the heat, per se. After washing up, I hastily tried to dry my hair and lied down to catch some sleep, as he instructed me to.
I felt him lie next to me after a few minutes and I snuggled to him as I tried to get back to sleeping while he was reading some reviewer on his phone. It was a restless sleep and I didn't feel refreshed after it. When we woke up (he fell asleep too after reviewing for 10 minutes), we cuddled and talked about random things and I still felt like my head was about to burst in half. I don't exactly know what triggered it but then I suddenly began feeling extremely sad. I tried searching for a reason as to why but came up with nothing. I felt my throat lock up and felt a scream wanting to come out... then I cried. Then I had another panic attack.
Jem shushed me and comforted me all throughout. Then I realized what was wrong. Why I suddenly felt sad even when I was lying next to the person I consider most important to me. I felt scared... thinking back, I was already feeling this way days, weeks even, ahead. I've had this constant dream of Jem leaving me for another woman he met on one of his duties on the hospital. Then it got worse when I wasn't only dreaming about it (something I couldn't control) but I was thinking, imaging even, it (something that I should be able to control). I honestly felt scared of our future. Our relationship. Him leaving me. Me, being too dependent on him. Every little thing that would involved the two of us. I started imagining how would our stuff be divided when we broke up, because most of it are things that we bought 50/50. I started imagining seeing him years ahead, after our supposed break up, with another woman and me single acting as if everything was okay. The lowest I got was when I started thinking that he was cheating on me even though he had never given me a reason to feel that way... I felt worse when I realized that even I myself can't control my thoughts. I know he's a great man but my mind kept perverting his image. Telling me that he has an ugly side. Someone I haven't even seen or met. My own mind was contorting the image of the person I love into some monster that I would hate. As if telling me to save myself from a future full of heartache and pain even though he hadn't even given me a reason to feel that way. All this time he treated me like his equal. Something he would always protect. Treating me the way he treats himself; with respect and love...
So I told him. He was silent for the most part but right after it he encouraged me with words that I have always heard from him. He had told me daily that he loves me and that it would never change. But somehow it always feel like it was the first time I hear that from him. I felt glad that he understood and he didn't scoffed at me. That he didn't think I was only being dramatic. I felt glad that he was honestly worried about me. He assured me, like always, that his feelings wouldn't change. But still, we have to work together for our relationship to flourish and last.
I started calming down. But my headache was still there. Then he told me. That what I fear most was probably already happening. My headache was not caused by some biological thing (skipping meals, not getting enough sleep, etc) but by something psychological.
I was already assuming I have it but kept on telling myself that I was probably just on the dramatic side of the human spectrum. But with the pattern of constant worry of something that is not immediate. Something that is not there. Then the constant feeling of restlessness. Not being able to focus when feeling worried about something I imagined. Episodic headaches on the same location of the head which sometimes reaches the eyes and makes it blurry. The panic attacks. The episodic feeling of difficulty in breathing...
He suggested that I should go talk to the psychiatrist I know. Just so I could get a clear answer if I really am suffering with anxiety. I might go this week. Or maybe the next. Or maybe when I feel ready. I don't know. I'm already feeling anxious thinking about it...
I honestly started blogging because I was looking for a medium to express my thoughts and emotions. I am not a very social person; like, seriously, NOT a very social person. I don't even consider myself on the level 1 of being a social person; so imagine what I feel when all my frustrations builds up inside. Anyway, I'm writing this post now because I might have come face to face with something I am totally not ready for. It started on this day, Sunday of March 2017.
As always, Jem and I planned our day ahead. We were supposed to meet up at EDSA - P. Tuazon so we could travel back to their condo and engage in our weekly gym routine. Prior to that, I was supposed to do our weekly laundry. But after waking up at 9 in the morning, my body kept on telling me to sleep the day off and to not go outside... I instantly thought of my previous breakdown but immediately brushed it off thinking that it was probably just my laziness acting up again.
But then my head started aching. Both of my temples began pounding as if syncing with a tune I couldn't hear. Then it got worse. The ache encircled the back of my head and all I could think of was the pain I was feeling.
I immediately told my mom I couldn't do our laundry and she told me that she'll just do it herself, albeit it would only be their clothes. A bit disappointed since I will still have to do my own laundry, I got back to my room and laid down, thinking that a bit of rest would make this headache go away. At around quarter to 12, Jem pinged me on FB telling me he wouldn't be able to fetch me at our meet-up place since his mom asked him to register her on one of Nike's weekly run. I wasn't able to reply since my mom called me down to eat our lunch.
Still thinking that this headache of mine would disappear after I fill up my empty stomach, I hungrily munched on my home-cooked special mongo that my step-father prepared. Since I started feeling that the pounding on my head began fading, I decided to head out and go to Jem's condo. I booked a Grab Car since it was already a bit late and I didn't want to commute under the scorching heat.
The moment I stepped on their condo, I felt that my headache returned, and much, much worse. I told Jem that my head was pounding and he apparently offered me to take some meds but I didn't hear him. We went straight to the gym after fixing some of our stuff and began our cardio. With every exercise, the pounding in my head started getting stronger and stronger. After our warm-up, I felt like all of my blood traveled up to my brain as if helping to increase the pounding that was already too painful to handle. Jem settled me on one of the gym equipment and ushered me to rest instead.
I tried my best to take even just a short nap so I can free myself from the pain even for just a short while but I wasn't able to. I got up after 30-40 minutes or so (it was only after that that I was able to move) and told Jem that I'll just be lying outside near the swimming pool, thinking that the fresh air would help me. Jem finished his routine for another 10-15 minutes before going to me and helping me up. I actually needed his support. as well as the walls', so I could walk to the elevator.
When we got back to their condo, he gave me a paracetamol and asked me to wash up so that I could feel refreshed. Release my body from the heat, per se. After washing up, I hastily tried to dry my hair and lied down to catch some sleep, as he instructed me to.
I felt him lie next to me after a few minutes and I snuggled to him as I tried to get back to sleeping while he was reading some reviewer on his phone. It was a restless sleep and I didn't feel refreshed after it. When we woke up (he fell asleep too after reviewing for 10 minutes), we cuddled and talked about random things and I still felt like my head was about to burst in half. I don't exactly know what triggered it but then I suddenly began feeling extremely sad. I tried searching for a reason as to why but came up with nothing. I felt my throat lock up and felt a scream wanting to come out... then I cried. Then I had another panic attack.
Jem shushed me and comforted me all throughout. Then I realized what was wrong. Why I suddenly felt sad even when I was lying next to the person I consider most important to me. I felt scared... thinking back, I was already feeling this way days, weeks even, ahead. I've had this constant dream of Jem leaving me for another woman he met on one of his duties on the hospital. Then it got worse when I wasn't only dreaming about it (something I couldn't control) but I was thinking, imaging even, it (something that I should be able to control). I honestly felt scared of our future. Our relationship. Him leaving me. Me, being too dependent on him. Every little thing that would involved the two of us. I started imagining how would our stuff be divided when we broke up, because most of it are things that we bought 50/50. I started imagining seeing him years ahead, after our supposed break up, with another woman and me single acting as if everything was okay. The lowest I got was when I started thinking that he was cheating on me even though he had never given me a reason to feel that way... I felt worse when I realized that even I myself can't control my thoughts. I know he's a great man but my mind kept perverting his image. Telling me that he has an ugly side. Someone I haven't even seen or met. My own mind was contorting the image of the person I love into some monster that I would hate. As if telling me to save myself from a future full of heartache and pain even though he hadn't even given me a reason to feel that way. All this time he treated me like his equal. Something he would always protect. Treating me the way he treats himself; with respect and love...
So I told him. He was silent for the most part but right after it he encouraged me with words that I have always heard from him. He had told me daily that he loves me and that it would never change. But somehow it always feel like it was the first time I hear that from him. I felt glad that he understood and he didn't scoffed at me. That he didn't think I was only being dramatic. I felt glad that he was honestly worried about me. He assured me, like always, that his feelings wouldn't change. But still, we have to work together for our relationship to flourish and last.
I started calming down. But my headache was still there. Then he told me. That what I fear most was probably already happening. My headache was not caused by some biological thing (skipping meals, not getting enough sleep, etc) but by something psychological.
I was already assuming I have it but kept on telling myself that I was probably just on the dramatic side of the human spectrum. But with the pattern of constant worry of something that is not immediate. Something that is not there. Then the constant feeling of restlessness. Not being able to focus when feeling worried about something I imagined. Episodic headaches on the same location of the head which sometimes reaches the eyes and makes it blurry. The panic attacks. The episodic feeling of difficulty in breathing...
He suggested that I should go talk to the psychiatrist I know. Just so I could get a clear answer if I really am suffering with anxiety. I might go this week. Or maybe the next. Or maybe when I feel ready. I don't know. I'm already feeling anxious thinking about it...
Thursday, March 23, 2017
Photography and Travel Enthusiasts, UNITE!
Nowadays, lakwatseras (or travelers, for a kinder term HAHA) are more in tuned in producing not just selfies, but what most people call as 'artsy' shots. Of course this is already achievable with whatever camera you got; may it be your smartphone, your trusted sports cam, or what have you. As long as you got the right place, the right angle.
But there's just this something that makes you want to produce an output that is more than just for posting on your IG feed. And this can be achieved if you have more freedom of control on your device. So you can remove or lessen that annoying glare of the sun on your artsy shot, so that the sharpness of the mountains on the distance will be prominent, so that the waves of the ocean will have that realistic texture that you oh-so-crave for... Yeah, yeah post processing is a thing, but what if you can produce that same result with just a raw shot, right?
Yes, SLRs and DSLRs has been on market for the past millennia (exaggeration, I know), but not everyone has the time to learn its technicalities and the money to purchase a good one. Good thing mirror-less cameras had made its niche on the market!
But there's just this something that makes you want to produce an output that is more than just for posting on your IG feed. And this can be achieved if you have more freedom of control on your device. So you can remove or lessen that annoying glare of the sun on your artsy shot, so that the sharpness of the mountains on the distance will be prominent, so that the waves of the ocean will have that realistic texture that you oh-so-crave for... Yeah, yeah post processing is a thing, but what if you can produce that same result with just a raw shot, right?
Yes, SLRs and DSLRs has been on market for the past millennia (exaggeration, I know), but not everyone has the time to learn its technicalities and the money to purchase a good one. Good thing mirror-less cameras had made its niche on the market!
Mirror-less Cameras (image from here)
Sunday, March 5, 2017
Socialization 101: Paws in the Park 2017
Last February 26, Paws in the Park held their annual dog fair at Greenfield District (near Shaw Boulevard). This was their 4th time gathering dog owners and dog lovers alike to enjoy the day at the park with their furry buddies.
Of course Jem and I went to check it out because (1) registration is for free, (2) we might get a chance to get some freebies, and most specially, (3) we wanted to take Cookie out to play with her fellow dogs.
Of course Jem and I went to check it out because (1) registration is for free, (2) we might get a chance to get some freebies, and most specially, (3) we wanted to take Cookie out to play with her fellow dogs.
Labels:
2017,
Cookie,
Dog,
dog fair,
dog park,
fair,
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greenfield district,
Manila,
Metro Manila,
park,
paws in the park,
paws in the park 4,
PCSA,
Philippines,
sunset fair,
travel
Saturday, March 4, 2017
Adulting 101: Sony a6500 Consumer Launch
When Kuya Noel, one of the running buddies of Jem's mom (see post here and here), PMed Jem that he saw a photography workshop offered by Sony, we immediately registered through the link he gave.
We didn't really expect much from this workshop since it was for free but we were nonetheless excited to attend one. Add to the fact that they will be conducting a raffle with a prize of one new Sony Alpha 6000!
Labels:
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alpha 6500,
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sony alpha,
sony Philippines,
whitespace manila,
workshop
Friday, March 3, 2017
Art Fair Manila 2017
I've worked in Makati for 2 years and I always hear about this Art Fair that is annually being held at the parking space of The Link located in Ayala. However, I always fail to have a chance to visit it. Come 2017, I found out the dates of this year's fair and I asked Jem to accompany my visit to Manila's very own art fair.
Labels:
2017,
Art,
art fair,
art fair manila,
ayala,
displays,
Exhibits,
fair,
makati,
Manila,
Metro Manila,
paintings,
Philippines,
sculptures,
the link,
travel
Thursday, March 2, 2017
DIY: Cheap Fashionable Glasses
Let's take a break from all the travelling stuff because I just wanted to share this thing I do whenever I'm faced with the inevitable: "I need to change my eye glasses".
Photo grabbed from here
Labels:
2017,
DIY,
eye glasses,
eye problem,
glasses,
i2i,
i2i new york,
Manila,
Metro Manila,
Philippines,
review,
thoughts,
verona,
verona optical
Wednesday, March 1, 2017
A Day About The Sky: 2017 Hot Air Balloon Festival
Ever since Jem started his 3rd year as a med student, I've been teasing him about the things he'll start to miss out. Because he'll be needing to spend more time doing rounds in hospitals and that it will be harder from here, I told him he'll begin to miss out some birthdays, family outings and celebrations, dates, and whatnot. Add to the fact that I too am planning something big for my future, this reality check had started a mindset that we must travel and spend as much time as possible together.
Because of this, whenever we see stuff on the internet that says "must-visit", "must-see", "must-go" places in the Philippines (near Metro Manila), we try our hardest to check it out for ourselves.
Recently, the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival had been buzzing around the internet and all sorts of media publication. And when my mom said that that festival was something worth checking out, we planned our DIY Trip to Clark, Pampanga.
Because of this, whenever we see stuff on the internet that says "must-visit", "must-see", "must-go" places in the Philippines (near Metro Manila), we try our hardest to check it out for ourselves.
Recently, the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival had been buzzing around the internet and all sorts of media publication. And when my mom said that that festival was something worth checking out, we planned our DIY Trip to Clark, Pampanga.
Labels:
2017,
blue,
camping,
clark,
commute,
festival,
hot,
hot air balloon,
Lego Batman,
pampanga,
Philippines,
sky,
sky diving,
SM Clark,
subic,
Tour,
travel
Tuesday, February 28, 2017
Yexel's Toy Museum
Since I'm (once again) being pressed to post some outdated activities we experienced for the past weeks of the year, I'll be posting quite some stuff for the following days (hopefully, I wouldn't break this promise I made AGAIN).
Like always, I've been bugging Jem to visit another place here in the Metro and when we saw this awesome deal in Metrodeal, I immediately bought it and asked him to set a date that is most convenient for him. So when he confirmed that we'll be going on January 21 (conveniently, our 3rd anniversary yihee), we searched for the easiest commute route we could take to get to Yexel's Toy Museum.
Like always, I've been bugging Jem to visit another place here in the Metro and when we saw this awesome deal in Metrodeal, I immediately bought it and asked him to set a date that is most convenient for him. So when he confirmed that we'll be going on January 21 (conveniently, our 3rd anniversary yihee), we searched for the easiest commute route we could take to get to Yexel's Toy Museum.
Labels:
2017,
cheap date ideas,
Exhibits,
GOT,
LOTR,
Manila,
Manila Ocean Park,
Metro Manila,
metrodeal,
Minions,
museum,
Philippines,
Spiderman,
Star Wars,
Toy Museum,
travel,
Yexel Toy Museum
Monday, February 27, 2017
Walking the Dog: A Trip to the Past II
I know, I know, I've been quite the inactive blogger that I am for the past weeks. But I'm glad to inform you guys, that yes, I am still alive and kicking!
As the title of this post says, I'll be touring you once again to Intramuros BUT with an additional member! So without further ado, here's Cookie the amazing dog! hehe
As the title of this post says, I'll be touring you once again to Intramuros BUT with an additional member! So without further ado, here's Cookie the amazing dog! hehe
Saturday, January 28, 2017
A Trip to The Past
Ever since I started working along with photographers, I have been constantly curious about this activity they conduct which they call "Photo Walk". Because one of my colleague is a well established photographer, he had taught me some of the basics needed to take some shots that are quite pleasing to the eyes. So when Jem's mom bought a mirror-less camera, we took it out to check its abilities and put our amateur skills to the test by doing our own "Photo Walk" inside Intramuros.
Intramuros!
Labels:
2017,
cheap date ideas,
date,
exploration,
Fort Santiago,
History,
Intramuros,
Manila,
Metro Manila,
park,
past,
Philippines,
Tour,
tourist spots,
travel
Wednesday, January 25, 2017
Festival of Lights
When I started working in Makati (back in 2014), Jem and I never had the chance to watch the very famous Festival of Lights during Christmas season in Ayala Triangle. It was a bit frustrating since the office I go to way back then was just a short walk from the said park. Add the fact that I have already gone there with my friends.
Couples! Couples everywhere!
Monday, January 23, 2017
A New Beginning: 2017 Bucket List
Just like in the past, I've once again created my bucket list for this year. It might be quite a bit lit late since January is almost done, but hey, better late than never right?
So here ya go, fingers crossed that this will also be the posts you can look forward to :)
Blurred out some stuff here 'cause they're a bit personal (like life changing personal) hehe but I'll still talk about it should I be able to tick it off (hopefully).
Friday, January 20, 2017
3 Destinations in 3 Days: Never a goodbye, only a see you later
The morning of our departure from Sagada, we all woke up pretty early (around 3-ish, I think) except for my roommate, Jem, cause he can't wake up in such ungodly hour. Anyway, since we were advised that we will be checking out Kiltepan Peak prior to travelling down to Baguio, we had our stuff ready by 4AM.
Kiltepan Peak (photo grabbed from here)
Labels:
2016,
accomplishments,
achievement,
ATV Adventure,
bagiuo,
banaue,
kiltepan,
Philippines,
review,
sagada,
Sports Camera,
strawberry farm,
Tour,
travel,
travel galore
Location:
Mountain Province, Philippines
Wednesday, January 18, 2017
3 Destinations in 3 Days: The torture we volunteered for
Before we turned in the previous night, one of the tour guides approached us while we were chatting. He also tried to wake up our other companions but failed since they were already fast asleep. Anyway, he simply asked us what we wanted to do for the next day. He informed us that the highlight of our tour would be spelunking.
Labels:
2016,
accomplishments,
achievement,
bucket list,
Experience,
ganduyan museum,
joiners,
lake danum,
lumiang cave,
Philippines,
pottery,
rock cafe,
sagada,
spelunking,
sumaging cave,
Tour,
travel,
travel galore,
trip
Location:
Mountain Province, Philippines
Monday, January 16, 2017
3 Destinations in 3 Days: Where do broken hearts go?
As promised, here's my last travel post for the year 2016.
Way before Jem's 'last' vacay started (yep, we're dreading it haha), we had a mutal agreement that we would join a joiners tour. See this had been becoming quite popular for travel junkies and social butterflies over the past years. Joiners tour is a type of tour arranged by travel agencies which aim to lower the costs of travelling by having a bunch of strangers travel together in groups.
Way before Jem's 'last' vacay started (yep, we're dreading it haha), we had a mutal agreement that we would join a joiners tour. See this had been becoming quite popular for travel junkies and social butterflies over the past years. Joiners tour is a type of tour arranged by travel agencies which aim to lower the costs of travelling by having a bunch of strangers travel together in groups.
GALORE!
Labels:
2016,
accomplishments,
achievement,
action camera,
bagiuo,
banaue,
bucket list,
Experience,
hanging coffins,
joiners,
life,
Mapiya-aw,
Philippines,
sagada,
Tour,
travel,
travel galore,
trip
Location:
Mountain Province, Philippines
Friday, January 13, 2017
Cats and Dogs
Hi everyone! So I'll be skipping one travel post since I haven't transferred the photos I took to my laptop HAHA. But worry not cause I promise I'll still post that one!
Moving forward, for our last date for the year 2016, Jem finally agreed to visit Bengal Brew Cat Cafe and Wolf & Bear Dog Cafe.
Moving forward, for our last date for the year 2016, Jem finally agreed to visit Bengal Brew Cat Cafe and Wolf & Bear Dog Cafe.
Wednesday, January 11, 2017
Christmas Tradition
Everyone has traditions which they tirelessly do every single year or how often they deem they should do it.
For Jem and I, ever since we started going out, we would always visit Meralco Liwanag Park located along Ortigas Avenue, during the holiday seasons. For one it's because it's free, and also because it's near Jem's family's condominium (meaning, we can eat at their house for free hehe).
For Jem and I, ever since we started going out, we would always visit Meralco Liwanag Park located along Ortigas Avenue, during the holiday seasons. For one it's because it's free, and also because it's near Jem's family's condominium (meaning, we can eat at their house for free hehe).
Tuesday, January 10, 2017
Appreciating the Arts
Ticked off another one for my 2016 bucket list!!!
Late 2015, Jem and I went to visit the National Museum of the Philippines. But since we arrived there pretty late (it was probably already 3:30PM by then) we didn't get to see much of their displays.Complete tour @ National Philippine Museum
Because of that, we promised that we'll get back and complete a day tour. Add the fact that Jem hasn't seen the gigantic painting of Juan Luna which is none other than The Spoliarium.
National Museum of the Philippines (photo grabbed from here)
Labels:
2016,
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Art,
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Manila,
museum,
National Museum of the Philippines,
Philippines,
Tour,
travel
Monday, January 9, 2017
Albay myself (not really) Pt. 2
Like what I promised, here's the 2nd part of our adventure in Albay, Bicol!
Albay is a province located in the Bicol Region in southeastern Luzon of the Philippines. We stayed somewhere in Tobaco City which is one of Albay's three cities along with Legazpi (capital city) and Ligao. Tobaco City boasts its Mayon Planetarium and Science Park which is also located on the Mayon Skyline View Deck (see Pt. 1 of post). Their major economic source is through agriculture with major crops such as: rice, corn, cacao, pili, root crops, vegetables, coconuts and abacá.
Albay is a province located in the Bicol Region in southeastern Luzon of the Philippines. We stayed somewhere in Tobaco City which is one of Albay's three cities along with Legazpi (capital city) and Ligao. Tobaco City boasts its Mayon Planetarium and Science Park which is also located on the Mayon Skyline View Deck (see Pt. 1 of post). Their major economic source is through agriculture with major crops such as: rice, corn, cacao, pili, root crops, vegetables, coconuts and abacá.
Mayon Volcano (photo grabbed from here)
Labels:
2016,
Adventure,
albay,
ATV,
ATV Adventure,
Beach,
beach bumming,
Bicol,
exploration,
explore,
Friend,
Friends,
island,
Mayon ATV Adventure,
mayon volcano,
travel,
trip,
virgin island
Location:
Albay, Philippines
Sunday, January 8, 2017
Albay myself (not really)
By July, with all our stuff packed and excitement level to the max, we joined our group of friends at NAIA. We were actually the last ones to arrive because the Grab driver we booked was not really familiar with where the domestic flights in NAIA takes off. To top it off, he was too much, like too much, of a careful driver that we were probably cruising the highway at 20mph (yes, I am exaggerating).
It was Jem and I's first flight together and we were really, really excited. Unfortunately though, we were not seated together HAHA
Mayon Volcano as seen from the plane :)
Labels:
2016,
Adventure,
albay,
cagsawa ruins,
daraga church,
kawa kawa hill,
lake,
mayon,
mayon skyline viewdeck,
mayon volcano,
Philippines,
pilgrimage,
south luzon,
sumlang lake,
tabaco,
tourist spots,
travel
Location:
Albay, Philippines
An Unexpected Trip
Like I said, I'll be updating my blog again now that I've already regained my energy and my will to write something not so negative about my life. Here's one I've been itching to post from the day I got back to posting stuff!
Way back 2015, I've been bugging Jem to have a camping trip to one of the beaches near Manila. He finally gave in when we learned that two of our friends, JR and France (see Tagaytay trip 1), went to Burot Beach and spent the night there with only a tent and quite a cheap budget (Jem's a big frugal).
So before summer ended, we planned our trip to Burot Beach located in Calatagan, Batangas.
Way back 2015, I've been bugging Jem to have a camping trip to one of the beaches near Manila. He finally gave in when we learned that two of our friends, JR and France (see Tagaytay trip 1), went to Burot Beach and spent the night there with only a tent and quite a cheap budget (Jem's a big frugal).
So before summer ended, we planned our trip to Burot Beach located in Calatagan, Batangas.
Calatagan, Batangas
Labels:
2016,
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DIY trip,
Experience,
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ocean,
overnight,
place,
places to go to,
sandbar,
sea,
swimming,
travel,
trip
Location:
Calatagan, Batangas, Philippines
Happy New Year!
Hi everyone!
I know I haven't been updating my blog AGAIN since November of last year but worry not because I am back! I've been quite busy (with work, life, and my mental stability haha) towards the end of the year so I am soooo full of wonderful stories I want to share!
I'll still continue on updating my accomplishments from last year's bucket list so yeah, I still have plenty to catch on.
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and that the new year has greeted you well, like mine!
I know I haven't been updating my blog AGAIN since November of last year but worry not because I am back! I've been quite busy (with work, life, and my mental stability haha) towards the end of the year so I am soooo full of wonderful stories I want to share!
I'll still continue on updating my accomplishments from last year's bucket list so yeah, I still have plenty to catch on.
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and that the new year has greeted you well, like mine!
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