anne

Meet Aria!

2012-01-27T17:28:00.001+08:00

After such a long wait, I finally had my ultrasound today. I wanted to have a Congenital Anomaly Scan done, that's why my OB made me wait a bit longer. The CAS wasn't required. I just asked for one because I wanted to be certain that my baby was developing well inside me.

And here she is!

Our beautiful baby girl. Aria Asis-Carilo.

Aria Asis-Carilo. Alvin and I were such proud and happy parents as we watched her on the little screen while the doctor showed us every little detail of her body. Alvin was beaming, I was smiling and crying at the same time - just like during the first ultrasound. I can't even begin to describe the feeling of seeing that little ball of life moving and breathing inside you. Ibang klase!

Aria was moving while the CAS was being done. She was moving her arms, opening her mouth, wiggling her feet. And while we watched the movement on screen, I was feeling the motions inside my tummy, too. It was wonderful! No, actually wonderful is an understatement.

My husband and I are so thankful for this incredible blessing. And knowing that the little one is normal, healthy and doing A-OK inside my tummy is once again another answered prayer. Thank You, Lord! God is good all the time.

In a week's time, I shall be entering my 7th month. Last trimester! I'm exclaiming a whoop of joy for making it this far so smoothly. Here's hoping that everything will be smooth-sailing until I give birth in April. I think one of the reasons why my pregnancy has been such a terrific journey is because I'm happy. I truly am! I'm enjoying every moment of this new experience. Oh yes, there are times (a lot of times, actually) when I felt like a huge mommy elephant. But I'm always surrounded with so much love and positivity that the bad vibes are always overshadowed. And my husband telling me every single day that I'm beautiful - that works wonders, believe me.

We'll be seeing Aria again in February for the 4D ultrasound. Can't wait!

Thank You, God!

Brekkie!

2012-01-19T10:39:00.001+08:00

Save a hundred calories by opting for an open-faced sandwich, says fitness experts. So I make myself one, with cheese and fresh tomatoes, washing it down with a glass of cold Silk soymilk. Healthy mom = healthy baby!

:)

:(

2012-01-19T08:37:00.001+08:00

Woke up this morning to news of couples breaking up. Actually, 2012 has started with a lot of break-ups. And it's always a sad, sad thing. I have gone through a terrible split myself in 2008 (which I will always remember as the most tumultuous year of my life) and I know how it feels - the emptiness, the feeling of being lost, the sadness that's like a black hole sucking you into it's vastness.

The pain eventually dulls and the wounds heal. And most of us come out of the ordeal a better and stronger person. It just shows how humans are really wired to survive any emotionally catastrophic event in our lives. People will always say, This too shall pass. But of course, a breakup is still...well, heartbreaking.

2012 is supposed to be bringing good luck, they say. I guess if you're going through something terrible right now, you can hold on to the truth that this will turn out to be good for you in the end. God really does know best. Hang in there!

"Sometimes it lasts in love, and sometimes it hurts instead. ~Adele"

Look!

2012-01-09T23:22:00.001+08:00

I've reached my 6th month already! Wheee! After two more weeks, my husband and I will finally be finding out if our baby is Adam or Aria. We can hardly wait! And I am such an excited mommy!

:)

Sundays are LOVE!

2012-01-08T12:45:00.001+08:00

It's a cold, rainy Sunday here in Manila. Perfect weather for a day of no work, actually. I woke up next to my husband as always, but this time there's something new to look forward to - the little kicks my baby sends out from my tummy almost every morning.

Don't you just love Sundays? Doing nothing, being lazy, without feeling the least bit guilty. And having rainy weather like this is always an added bonus.

As my hubby and I sit in front of the TV with some hot chocolate, I smile thankfully for these simple pleasures. Thank You, God, for always keeping love and laughter in our home. Right here with my husband and our little one in my tummy is exactly where I want to be.

Hope you're having a wonderful Sunday, too!

2012-01-06T23:43:00.001+08:00

Unless you have been very, very lucky, you have undoubtedly experienced events in your life that have made you cry. So unless you have been very, very lucky, you know that a good, long session of weeping can often make you feel better, even if your circumstances have not changed one bit. ~Lemony Snicket

Surreal.

2012-01-02T22:22:00.001+08:00

There are times when I wake up in the morning next to my husband, I stop and say to myself, "Wow! I'm already married to him."

We've been together for almost twelve years, married for a year and 4months now, and my heart still does cartwheels sometimes when the thought of forever with him suddenly hits me. Sometimes it still feels so surreal. And it will never stop feeling so wonderful.

:)

Happy 2012!

2012-01-02T15:19:00.004+08:00

And just like that, it's a brand new year! Time really does just zoom by when you're having fun.

Me at 5 months :)

It's been a terrific ride, the past year. I learned and tried new things, got to travel for free, take lots of beautiful photos, spent time with family and good friends and wonderful people. And the highlight of 2011: my pregnancy. Yes, folks, my husband and I are having a baby! As I write this, I am already entering my 6th month. The experience is so beautiful, I'm telling ya! I am one of the lucky few without morning sickness, complications or even excess weight gain. Well, the controlled weight gain is mainly attributed to my continued exercise regimen and discipline at the dining table. Meaning, hard work. But all in all, my pregnancy is running smoothly. So far, so good. I am very, very thankful.

The baby's already moving actively, too! When my husband and I woke up yesterday, January 1st, he placed his hand on my tummy when I told him that baby was awake, too. And he felt the little one move for the very first time. Alvin was so happy, and beaming like a proud daddy! It was such a beautiful way to start the new year.

My goal last year was to make it a learning year, and the most important thing that I learned is the value of family. This year, I aim to count my blessings more often, to be more positive, to blog more often, to not sweat the small stuff, to spend more precious moments with people who matter and worry only about things that are important, and to become the best mom that I can be.

I lift my heart in a prayer of thanks for the wonderful year that passed. Here's hoping that 2012 will be even more awesome!

Happy new year! :)

Dear Jo,

2011-07-08T08:01:00.009+08:00

I can't begin to tell you how much I love Harry Potter.

I first started reading your books in 2008. I was a fan of the movies first before I discovered the marvel of your written creation. My friends, who were already fans, persuaded me to read your works, telling me that they were so much more than children's books. And they were right. I found myself completely embracing every story, falling in-love with the characters, being enchanted by Hogwarts. It was magic!

I really cannot explain why once I've picked up your book, any of the seven which I have re-read a hundred times, I get lost in this world of witches and wizards. I feel that I am also part of Harry's army, struggling to end Voldemort's evilness once and for all. I feel like I am friends with the boy who lived.

That is the magic of your creation. You penned a masterpiece that has brought millions and millions of readers around the world together, regardless of color, regardless of age. Your vast imagination drew the images of Harry, Hermione and Ron, Dumbledore and Snape, Voldemort, Bellatrix, Sirius Black, Fred and George - the movies brought them to life - and we, the readers and fans, have made them legendary. Isn't that truly phenomenal? No other work of fiction has greatly influenced the world.

Now, as I wait with the rest of the Harry Potter fans scattered all over the globe to see the last movie, I am not only filled with anticipation and excitement. I am also filled with a sense of loss. I am certain that this sadness is mirrored by many of Harry's followers. For ten years, we've always had something to wait for, to look forward to. The publishing of the next book. The release of the next film. After the last installment of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, there will be nothing left to be unveiled. A tragedy I cannot fathom.

This morning, I was watching your goodbye speeches at the red carpet event of the London premiere, and cried along with you, Dan, Emma and Rupert. Saying goodbye is so sad. However, what Dan said was right. The story of Harry Potter, your marvelous creation, will forever live in our hearts. Therefore the magic will never end. It will continue to live on in the hearts of fans, and in the generations to come as we pass on our books to our children.

Thank you for sharing this with us, Miss J.K. Rowling. You've brought us back to reading. You taught us to believe in magic. Thank you.

I know that there won't ever be an eighth book. But if, in the future, you find yourself inspired once again to pen a story, we will be more than eager to read again, to hop on the Hogwarts Express again, to re-open our hearts and welcome back the boy who lived.

Sincerely,

P.S.

If you ask me who my favorite character is, that would be Severus Snape. I personally believe that he is the greatest fictional character ever penned. After reading the last book and learning about all that he did for Dumbledore, for Harry, for Lily, all of his sacrifices, I was completely won over. Snape is incredible. You have created a truly amazing character. And for that, I give you not just a round of applause, but a standing ovation! Bravo!

I'm really just a girl...

2011-06-27T16:35:00.002+08:00

...standing in front of a guy (or a girl if you're a girl), asking you to like me. Tee-hee! :)

Check out the DJ Anne Official Facebook Page. Would be awesome if you liked it, too!

Thank you!

Crazy!

2011-06-26T13:38:00.001+08:00

You should get a copy of Lourd De Veyra's book, This Is A Crazy Planets. It's a compilation of posts from his blog. Hilarious, I'm telling ya!

My husband is loving it. Beats David Sedaris anytime! I bet you'll love it, too!

:)

2011-06-26T13:34:00.001+08:00

Lying in bed, reading a book or doing nothing, talking, laughing, being lazy together. Don't you just love Sundays? Especially when you're sharing it with the one you love, yes?

:)

Musings...

2011-06-25T11:15:00.005+08:00

One of the actors from Jackass, Ryan Dunn, died recently from a car crash. The reason? He was drunk, and was driving too fast for his own good.

Some people, stricken with disease like cancer, pay so much money to save their own lives. While others don't give a damn and live carelessly and recklessly. They drown themselves in booze, get in a car, and get in an accident that costs them their lives.

If only one's lifespan could be transfered, just like blood. If you're tired of it, then give it to someone who desperately wants to live.

----------

Life is really simple.

We are the ones who make it complicated. Our choices, our decisions, our emotions, the paths we choose to take - these will either put life's puzzle pieces in order or helter skelter. It's all up to you.

Funny how sometimes people choose to complicate things by making unwise decisions. Choosing to do something stupid, when everybody, even your conscience, tries to steer you to the right direction. Then when life gets too dramatic or difficult because of your choices, you complain.

Life is what you make it, my friend.

Long overdue!

2011-06-04T11:14:00.029+08:00

Time to dust off the cobwebs from my blog. I've been quite busy the past month so I failed to write about things and events that I wanted to document. It's long overdue, these stories. But still worth reading, so let's begin.

MERCATO CENTRALE

FAVORITES WEEKEND TREAT

Hubby and I visited the famous Mercato Centrale food market at BGC two months ago to check out their Favorites Weekend Treat. I've been invited several times by RJ Ledesma (the guy who cooked up this gastronomic venture) to try out the wonders of Mercato Centrale, but I couldn't find the time to drive from QC to Taguig on weekends. So finally, after interviewing on my radio show two of the merchants included in the Favorites Weekends Treat - Nowie of Mochiko and Gail of Simply Pie! - I was enticed to block off my Sunday and trek to The Fort.

And oh, how my hubby and I enjoyed that day!

With RJ Ledesma

The freshest organic veggies from the Producers Tent

The famous donut burger from Offbeat Kitchen. Thanks, Mickey!

Thanks for the tour, Nowie! And for the super yummy Mochiko treats!

Promos and goodies were given by 15 of Mercato's best merchants during the Weekend Treat. But there were a lot of other food and produce stalls to check out, too, so the tents were abuzz with families, foodies and shoppers. Nowie gave Alvin and I a quick tour around the place and introduced us to some of the top merchants, who all gave us free samples of their products. Oh joy!

Two of my favorites: homemade ravioli and Tina's Beef San Mig Pie. Ooh la la!

Anita's cupcakes are as delightful as the baker herself! Wonderful!

The BEST quiche I have ever tasted! Delicious. 'Nuff said. Thanks, Gail!

We simply couldn't try everything all in one day. So we promised we'd visit Mercato again. Hubby and I went home with happy tummie (burp!) and boxes of goodies to share with my family on the way home.

Check out MERCATO!

Midnight Mercato - Fridays and Saturdays, 8pm-2am

Mercato Centrale - Saturdays and Sundays, 6am-2pm

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

SUNSET AT ANINUAN, PUERTO GALERA

We simply couldn't let the summer pass without hitting the beach together, so hubby and I planned a little trip out of town without having to spend for airfare. What came to mind was Puerto Galera. The last time we visited Mindoro was in 2004 or 2005. We stayed at White Beach, and I remember it being quite nice and not as crazy as Boracay. I researched on other hotels to check out in Puerto Galera and chanced upon the website of this place called Sunset at Aninuan. The photos on the site were quite lovely, so I got in touch with the Manager/Owner and booked a stay.

The long beach strip of Aninuan is situated right beside White Beach, separated by a rocky cove that you can cross carefully by foot if you're the adventurous type. But Aninuan is a far cry from its neighbor. While White Beach has turned into an ugly version of Boracay, Aninuan lies secretly on the other side, like a jewel waiting to be discovered. There are only three resorts on the strip - Camp Rock, Tamaraw and Sunset. The rest of it belongs to the Pardo de Ayala family. That's why it's quiet, undisturbed and breathtakingly beautiful.

The restaurant by the beach.

Hubby and I stayed for four blissful days, priding ourselves for finding such a gem of a place. The rates are reasonable, quite affordable actually for a hotel that can be considered upscale because of its structure, amenities and service. The owner and manager, Lexy Neiderer, is such a warm and wonderful person. All praises for the staff, the impeccable service, the food and restaurant. We spent four days just relaxing under the sun and taking photos. That photo I took of the sunset tells you why the place was named Sunset at Aninuan. The sunsets here are glorious everyday. Four days of uninterrupted swimming, tanning, lounging and photography for me and my husband. Boring? Not at all! Tiring ourselves with activities isn't our thing, but for those who wish for some action, the hotel also offers snorkeling and diving trips, hiking and kayaking.

Long shutter evening photo of the lounging area by the beach.

The rocky cove that separates White Beach from the beautiful stretch of Aninuan Beach.

With just an hour and a half-long drive to the Batangas Port, and a 45-minute ferry ride to Muelle, Sunset at Aninuan is definitely our top choice for a quick getaway. I highly recommend this place to those looking for a romantic, relaxing break from the stressful city.

More updates soon!

When all else fails...

2011-05-18T16:58:00.003+08:00

...friendship won't!

Love you, Ta Mags! :)

A decade on radio!

2011-05-03T15:30:00.016+08:00

Wow. That makes me sound ancient.

This month marks my 10th year of being a radio jock. It was ten years ago when I first signed on as DJ Anne on Wave 891. And boy, what a terrific experience it has been! I never really thought I'd stay on this long. I've wanted to change paths many times along the way, but I guess God had better plans. So here I am, still playing music in the very first radio station that took me in.

I look back with a happy and grateful heart at the past decade. My radio career paved the way for many other opportunities. I became an events host. I was introduced to the voicing industry, which brought about a continuous stream of projects for me to voice - from radio and tv commercials, corporate AVPs, telecom hotlines and IVRS, to dubbing telenovelas. I've met so many different people, clients, friends and potential business partners. I even landed a job as a continuity voice for a cable tv channel! Radio helped me find all the right paths that led to these opportunities. I don't receive a huge paycheck as a jock, but I am rich in exposure and experiences. Plus the fact that I'm only required to work three hours a day, playing music that I love, already makes my job stress-free and A-W-E-S-O-M-E!

I remember how it all began for me. After college, I sent my resume and demo CD to two of my favorite stations back then: Magic 89.9 and RX 93.1. I got a call from RX, was interviewed, and failed to make the cut. I also got a call from Magic, and they said they wanted me on their team, but as a campus patroller. I was looking for a real job at that time, as I was already set on leaving my post in the family business. So I turned down the invitation from Magic, and resigned to the fact that maybe I wasn't meant to go on air.

After a few months, I received a call from Joe D'Mango. They were putting up a new radio station. They were looking for new jocks. He was able to listen to my demo CD, the one I sent to Magic. I sounded perfect for the job. And that was it.

Within the ten years I spent with Wave, I went on air a gazillion times, handled different time slots, got promoted to Production Manager then Creative Director then Assistant Station Manager. And the biggest highlight of my career: winning a KBP Golden Dove Award in 2005 for Best Radio Jock.

Summing it all up, I have nothing to say but THANK YOU. It has been a wonderful and fruitful decade. I was just a shy, nervous, chubby girl ten years ago, fresh from college, pursuing a dream. Who would've thought.

Cheers to a decade on radio! Here's to many more years of hearing DJ Anne on the airwaves!

:)

P.S.
To my dear listeners (the very few who aren't members of my family...LOL!), much love to y'all! Thank you and God bless you!

Beauty and the Beach!

2011-04-20T20:58:00.021+08:00

I flew to Boracay over the weekend to join Women's Health Beauty and the Beach 2011, the magazine's annual summer event. I remember interviewing Editor-in-Chief Lara Parpan last year and she told us all about the activities they had in store for all their female participants. This year, I got to join in on the fun! Wheee!

The event started early on Saturday, kicked off by the Havaianas Race to Hawaii contest. I was asked to choose between joining that or the Hatha Yoga class at 7am. I chose the latter, just so I could have an extra hour of sleep. It was my first time to try yoga on the beach, and it was a challenge trying to twist into complicated poses while keeping your balance on the uneven sand.

Indian Bollywood dance class. Photo courtesy of Ingrid Villafuerte.

But I had a good time and was ready to hop into the next class - Indian Bollywood dancing! Ms. Marlette Basa was our instructor, handling all the other dance classes in the event. I got to move like a graceful Indian princess for an hour, and my efforts were rewarded when I was chosen as one of the top 5 dancers in the class. I got two overflowing bags of goodies courtesy of Schick, Banana Boat and other sponsors.

During the midday break, my roomie Scarlet (99.5 RT) and I took our sweet time having lunch by the beach, swimming and getting toasted golden by Mr. Sun. It was a perfect break from all the work and stress that we left in Manila.

The Chair Cabaret class opened the 2nd half of the event. I joined the Hawaiian Hula dance class that came after. We swayed on the shore with our yellow and green leis until the sun was ready to set. I sweated buckets after all the activities we had that day, but I was having an awesome time!

Women's Health EIC Lara Parpan doing the Chair Cabaret class

Doing the Hawaiian Hula as the Boracay sun starts to set. Photo courtesy of Ingrid Villafuerte.

Day 1 of Beauty and the Beach was capped off by a dinner party at Astoria. I got to bond with the lovely Ingrid Villafuerte, Summit's Media Relations Manager, over delish Pinoy dishes and grilled blue marlin. Definitely one of the best parts of my trip!

With Ingrid. I made a new friend! :)

Posing with Lara Parpan, blogger Nouelle de Guzman and Ingrid Villafuerte.

Our flight was scheduled early Sunday morning, so we weren't able to join Day 2 of Beauty and the Beach. The second day of the event had Hatha Yoga and the Fitness Hula Hoop class, which I was looking forward to trying. But it's all good. It was such a lovely experience. Thank you, Summit Media and Women's Health, for bringing me with you to Boracay. Crossing my fingers that I get to tag along again next year.

Posing with my roomie Scarlet of 99.5 RT and Ms. Marlette Basa, our dance instructor.

Congratulations and job well done, Women's Health Philippines! Cheers to many more years of spreading good health, good vibes and great articles through the pages of your magazine!

HBD, Me! :)

2011-03-28T08:34:00.003+08:00

I remember quite clearly when my mom turned 32. We woke up early to greet her and sing the birthday song. The night before, I remember me and my sister Adie carefully crafting the cards we were going to give her. That was twenty-something years ago. Now it's my turn to have 32 candles on my birthday cake. Can you believe how fast time flies and sometimes you don't seem to notice?

Yes. Just like that, I'm 32. My last year on the calendar, sadly. But on the brighter side, my first birthday as a married woman. For the past 31 years, I would wake up surrounded by my family. We'd usually wait until 12:01 of the 28th, or if everyone was too sleepy to wait, they'd leave their plenty presents outside my bedroom door. Now it was different. I woke up this morning in the loving arms of my husband, showering me with little kisses and "happy birthday, baby!" greetings. Wonderful way to start my B-day!

So many lovely things to be thankful for. God has been so good to me, filling my life with blessings all these years. Never a day went by that I was not surrounded by people who love me and care for me. Thank you, Lord, for being my Provider and Healer!

When people ask me what my birthday wishes are, it's quite difficult to come up with an answer. What do I want? I honestly don't know. There is a prayer or two that I choose to share with God alone. Apart from that, I'm good, really. Love, prayers and true friendship would be wonderful gifts. (Oh, and maybe a really nice food processor that does the works! Hehe.)

Here we go then. Day 1 of yet another 365-day adventure around the sun. Looking forward to more growth and learning, positive changes, new experiences, and many more reasons to laugh and be thankful! Cheers!

Crush Blush!

2011-02-20T12:54:00.004+08:00

Listening to some old tracks on my IPOD. When the first few beats of Waiting In Vain by Annie Lennox started to play, my mind started flipping back to photo album pages of my college years. I used to be in-love with a fellow student in UST. He was from a different department, and way out of my league, I guess. We had a few flirtatious moments, most of them behind his girlfriend's back until they broke up. We never ended up together, but my feelings for him lasted for quite a long time. Now we're friends on Facebook. Everytime I see his photos, I would smile to myself. I remember the boy, and yes, I still remember the feeling, but it doesn't have the same effect on me anymore. Past is past.

Quite a strange coincidence, too, that he named his daughter with the same name I wanted to give our kid if we'd ever ended up together someday. He doesn't know that. I find it amusing.

I had so many crushes back in college. Some of the memories are still vivid even if it's been more than a decade ago. The geeky Chinese guy who edited our video documentary about the MRT. This classmate of mine that was so cute until I realized he kinda looked like my brother, so I immediately stopped crushing on him. My professor who once wrote me a note that said, "What's the matter, peanut butter?" He knows I used to like him. I don't even remember why.

Then this guy matched me up with a friend of his. He was good-looking, smooth and genuinely sweet and thoughtful. Plus, he spoke really good English, something that wins me over real fast. I crushed on and flirted with him, became his girlfriend, and now I'm sharing his last name. Now that's what I call a fairy tale come true.

Love you!

2011-02-14T00:21:00.001+08:00

Our 11th VDay together, and our 1st as hubby and wifey. Wheee! I'll never get tired of having you for my Valentine. To my husband, my best friend, my Soul Satellite... Love always.

XOXO.

Thank you!

2011-02-07T20:28:00.002+08:00

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.

- Charles Caleb Colton

Bon appetit!

2011-02-07T19:39:00.008+08:00

I'm making bangus bistek right now while waiting for my husband to come home from work. The delicious aroma of fish, calamansi and soy sauce fills the kitchen, and I am brought back to my childhood years. The smell of bangus bistek always takes me back to when I was still a kid. I learned how to cook at a very early age. Twelve years old, to be exact. In fact, when I was seven, my mom would make a list and ask me to go to the palengke, all by myself. I remember walking to the market in my pambahay, buying onions, tomatoes, some veggies and a kilo of meat. Or bigas.

Before I hit 10, I've become friends with the frying pan. And at 12, my Mom already taught me how to make famous pinoy dishes like adobo, bistek, tinola and sinigang. I was trained in the kitchen early, and I am thankful for it. I didn't grow up to be a chef, but I have never fallen out of love with cooking. Through the years, I taught myself how to make different dishes, scouting for recipes on the internet. Oh and how I love to experiment! I'd scan the pantry or the fridge's contents and create something from whatever I find in them. When I was still single and living with my folks, I was the official cook. My specialty? Gourmet pasta. That earned me the title "Pasta Princess," awarded to me by my solid, faithful fans - my family. Now that I'm married, I have one happy and satisfied diner in my kitchen - the husband! And my future kids will be getting the same early training from me, just the way my Mom taught me, with apron, pot holder and all.

Cooking is la-la-love! And the learning never stops! I still have many, many dishes to make. Next on my learning list: Baking! Will enroll at Heny Sison very soon!

Did ya know...

2011-02-05T19:25:00.002+08:00

...that you can now listen, chat and watch us do our radio shows live? Oh yes! Technology has made us interactive!

Catch me on Chill Street (M-Th 11am-2pm) and the Soul Review countdown (Fri 5-8pm).

www.wave891.fm

2011-02-05T19:21:00.001+08:00

One of the biggest, irreparable mistakes in life is to burn bridges.

A friendly advice: Think twice.

Love!

2011-02-04T12:54:00.001+08:00

While I sit and do some blogging and tweeting, my husband cooks us up some brunch. I am such a spoiled, lucky and loved wifey!

:)

Doing nothing...

2011-02-04T12:29:00.001+08:00

...and loving it! Just a bit of petiks time before EAP starts working on our yearly photography project. We start the pictorials next week. We'll be working non-stop, 7days a week. It's gonna be another busy summer for me and my team. But who's complaining? Bring it on! :)

Nail Spa Lounge by Ellabell

2011-02-01T12:42:00.010+08:00

Having a bad day? Stressed? Overworked? Bored? Or just simply needing to feel terrific about yourself?

Here's where you can go!

Sharing with you my little sanctuary at the Mega Atrium. This is where I run to whenever I need a feel-good fix. Admit it. Pretty nails never fail to make your day brighter, yes? I'm here almost every week, and the super friendly staff make sure I leave with fab hands and feet everytime.

bonding time with my buddy and radio partner, jada

the friendly girls of Nail Spa Lounge

The owner, Shiela, has become a friend already. This branch in Megamall is her first. The place is simple, cozy, feminine and most importantly, relaxing. There's also a branch in Robinson's Place Ermita that you can check out if you find yourself in that area.

Go ahead! Have 'em nails pretty-fied!

NAIL SPA LOUNGE BY ELLABELL

5th level, Mega Atrium

Learning the Art of Makeup!

2011-01-23T17:16:00.007+08:00

I only have one New Year's Resolution, and it's quite easy to achieve, too. I am going to make my 2011 a learning year. This year will be all about learning new skills and trying new things.

For starters, I am taking up Personal Makeup at the new school of my good friend and makeup artist extraordinaire, Cheryl Cabanos.

It's a 4-day workshop that tackles not only makeup application and techniques for different occasions, but also learning about your skin type, skin tone, skin condition, face shape and angle, and what products and shades are best for you.

Day 1 today was super fun! Our first goal was to achieve the "no makeup" look. I think I did quite well, yes?

Can't wait 'til next Sunday!

Wanna learn, too? Cheryl offers courses on Personal Makeup, Professional Makeup, Airbrush Makeup, and Special Effects Makeup. Check out CHERYL CABANOS MAKEUP ACADEMY at Scout Ybardolaza, Timog, QC. Send her a message through facebook.com/cherylcabanos.

P.S.

Cheryl did my makeup on my wedding day, and she made look fabulous! So if you're a bride to be looking for a really good makeup artist to make you look beautiful, I highly recommend Cheryl. Best wishes to you!

2011-01-02T14:38:00.003+08:00

Hello there, 2011! It’s a brand new year that’s perfect for new beginnings. Some say the previous year hasn’t been so good. I beg to differ. 2010 was good to me. Maybe not in terms of career or financial growth. But it was the year that my beau of ten years and I tied the knot and decided to spend forever with each other. Bliss! My wedding day is the best part of 2010. And the joy and love emanating from that day are enough to shroud the entire year with positive vibes.

We ended 2010 with the same positive energy, and love and togetherness and family. I think the past year also made my family grow tighter. It made me realize that truly there is nothing more unbreakable than family ties. Friends may come and go, but your family will stay with you come what may. 2010 taught me to be more thankful, to count my blessings, to appreciate the little things, to see beauty in everything. This, I believe, will make the new year even more special. Because I’m starting it with a happy heart and a positive outlook.

Bring it on, 2011! I know you and I are gonna be fast friends.

A trip down memory lane...

2010-12-06T07:45:00.020+08:00

Last week, almost everyone on Facebook started changing their profile pictures to images of cartoon characters that reminded them of their childhood years. It was supposed to be a drive against child abuse. I doubt though that it was an official project targeting a good cause. Some even thought it silly, like my Dad who laughed at the photos we posted. But the campaign made him recall the cartoons he used to watch back in the 60s and 70s, even if he didn't dare post it on his page. It caused quite a stir, with almost 90% of my friends following the trend. I found myself browsing through my friends list more frequently, just to check out the cartoon pics that people posted. Some would even reveal the person's age, if he or she chose a character that was quite old.

Now that this whole cartoon thing is trending, and today is the last day of the campaign, allow me to share with you a glimpse from my past. These were the cartoons I used to watch when I was a kid. I remember waking up early every Saturday morning to catch my favorites on TV. Of course, every kid loved Sesame Street and Batibot. Here were the other toons I was hooked on.

Super Book and Flying House were one of my all-time favorites. It was also probably the easiest way to introduce children to Jesus and the Bible.

I simply adored the Care Bears. I used to have a sticker album when I was a kid, gifted to me by my Lolo Efren and Lola Gaya. It was a big, expensive book, and the stickers were bright and glittery. I also remember having Care Bears jammies from the States. Another memory I have of this cartoon is the time when my Tito Gil (bless his soul) brought me to the cinema to watch The Care Bears movie. He even bought me a set of colorful stickers after the show. That was about two decades ago. Now people are still loving these cute bears and all the positive vibes they throw out. An absolute classic.

To make kids eat their veggies, particularly spinach, just tell them to watch Popeye. Oh yes, that worked for me. And it made me crave for burgers, too. :)

I never really totally understood the plot of G.I. Joe, but I still watched it regularly when I was a kid. I honestly thought the most gorgeous lady on the show was The Baroness.

I remember watching this cartoon with my siblings when we were kids. We lived in San Juan back then, in our little townhouse. I remember having a Smurfs coloring book, and when I finished up all my blue crayons, I'd just paint them with a different color.

"I am Adora, He-Man's twin sister, and defender of the crystal castle. This is Spirit, my beloved steed." Oh yes, I know this line by heart. That's how much I loved this cartoon back then. He-Man was on my list, too. :)

Who didn't watch Captain Planet? His long hairdo and the bluish hue of his skin were enough to get every kid hooked. And of course, The Real Ghostbusters! I had a huge crush on Egon Spengler!

If there's one cartoon series that made me cry with every episode, that was Princess Sarah, dubbed in the vernacular and shown on Channel 2. I hated Lavinia with all my heart, but I always thought she was so much prettier than Sarah. And of course there's Lottie and Ermengarde and Miss Minchin...

I was a huge fan of the X-Men cartoon series as well. My favorite character: Ororo Munroe, better known as Storm.

Disney movies are timeless! My favorite was Sleeping Beauty. Until Belle of Beauty & the Beast came along, I thought Aurora was the prettiest Disney princess.

I never quite understood why the Wicked Queen was so envious of Snow White. Yes, the magic mirror said she was the fairest. But not the most beautiful. And definitely not more beautiful than the Queen. I never liked the chubby girl with the ugly outfit and the irritating, high-pitched voice. The Wicked Queen was my favorite, in all her sophisticated bitchiness.

I changed my profile pic on Facebook to an image of Wonder Woman, complete with her magic lasso. Why? I've always wanted to be Wonder Woman. Back in kindergarten, my friends and I would play a game where we pretended to be members of the Justice League. I wanted to be the raven-haired heroine with the invisible jet. But my gay classmate would always beat me to it. Wonder twins na lang daw ako. I can't remember the name of that boy. But I remember how I wanted to punch him for disrespecting my favorite cartoon character.

So, what was your favorite cartoon? Go change your profile pic. You have until today to join the fun.

:)

Updates...

2010-11-20T11:02:00.044+08:00

Finally found time to blog. So many things have happened already since after the wedding. So let me roll out the stories. Where to start? How about September 8, 2010 - our Big Day.

The raw photos have finally arrived. Terry Uy and his team did a wonderful job documenting our wedding from preps 'til after everyone was drunk and merry and ready to go home.

Getting ready to say "I do!" Preps were done at The Grand Terrace.

Who else to trust my face with but my good friend and makeup artist extraordinaire, Cheryl Cabanos. This girl never fails to make me look breathtakingly beautiful.

Vin and his parents - Dr. and Mrs. Noel and Veronica Carilo.

Here's my awesome family, posing at my Dad's awesome house! Tee-hee! Asis Family FTW!

Wedding rites held at the Holy Spirit Parish in BF Homes, QC.

I arrived a few minutes late because we were busy taking family photos at home. So Vin did some poses at the church while waiting. Our theme was based on Disney-Pixar's UP. So the decorations were all colorful balloons and flowers.

Yes, I am not ashamed to admit that I am a Daddy's Girl through and through.

I am his. He is mine. 'Til death do us part.

Instead of the usual showering of rice or flowers after the ceremony, we had a colorful flight of balloons. It was lovely! And God blessed us with good weather, too. Cloudy, but no rain. With just enough breeze to carry the balloons up, up and away!

As the guests made their way to the reception venue, Vin and I had a little photoshoot at the BFQC park.

Reception at The Grand Terrace along QC's Commonwealth Avenue.

We didn't want anything plain and common, so ours was a theme wedding inspired by the love of Carl and Ellie in the movie UP. We had a big and beautiful cake made by the famous Jill Sandique and her very talented students from French Kiss restaurant. My good friends Direk Jet, Direk Rod and DJTeam Inc. were our organizers, and they did a fabulous job turning the Palma Hall of The Grand Terrace a sight to behold.

As part of our souvenir, we had a photo booth courtesy of Litrato Juan. My buddy, Jada, is one of the owners, and she gifted me and Vin with their fun, fun services. Their booth was busy even after the party ended. Saya!

We didn't have time to go on a big honeymoon trip after the wedding date because of our work schedules. Our Boracay trip was scheduled one month after. October 28, we flew off to the beautiful island to stay at two of Boracay's top hotels - Discovery Shores and Shangri-la. It was a super engrande honeymoon!

Discovery Shores was lovely, a far cry from the small hotels we've stayed in during previous trips to Bora. The staff was very friendly and always ready and willing to answer your questions and give what you need. Vin and I were impressed with the impeccable service, and the way we were treated like VIPs every minute of our stay. I met the manager, Mr. Jun Parreno, a long time ago through our mutual friend, Mags David of Mossimo. (Tita Mags was the one who gifted us with accommodation at Shores!) It was a delight to see him again, and the ever so gracious Tito Jun even surprised us with wine and cheese in our room as a congratulatory gift.

After three days at Shores, we transferred to the next hotel - Shangri-la Boracay, hailed as the best Shangri-la in the Philippines. And after seeing the much praised place, I would have to agree. Vin and I were breathless with excitement as soon as we got there. Since I was a Shangri-la Golden Circle member, our room was upgraded for free. We got a room almost three times bigger than the one we had at Shores, with a jacuzzi on our private balcony facing the sea. It was heaven!

Shangri-la was indeed a paradise! However, if impeccable service and a warm, pleasant staff are what you're after, I would recommend you stay at Discovery Shores. Vin and I were surprised and a bit disappointed when we saw that the Shangri-la personnel were not as welcoming as the people from Shores. The latter had more heart, I guess. A more personal touch.

But all in all, it was a terrific honeymoon treat. Six days in Boracay, staying in very expensive hotels, no work or stress in mind, having the time of our lives - a honeymoon made in heaven!

:)

35 days to go before Christmas! This is going to be our 11th Christmas together, and our 1st one as husband and wife. And we just set up our very first tree! Wheee!

A 6-foot slim one, with red and gold flower trimmings and an angel on top. It isn't grand, but it's full of LOVE! Happy Christmas! :)

Vin and I plan to get pregnant next year. We're still enjoying married life - just the two of us. It gives us a warm feeling, everytime we see photos of our friends and their babies. That's going to be our next project, but all in God's perfect timing.

Life is so beautiful, don't you agree? I hope you're feeling it, too.

:)

That's me!

2010-10-09T11:55:00.004+08:00

Just some of the TV commercials that I voiced.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ld2LQFY_cuQ Skinwhite Lotion – coffee shop

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYC_3Fv-smE Palmolive Naturals – soft

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWoV4_VDMUY Palmolive Naturals – shine

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=isvE42uJW1k Block & White Lotion

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S63CvMnYYeU Ever Bilena Body Butter

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqSi_iikHpA Chalk Magazine event tvc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYM3f4EW97M Chalk Magazine monthly tvcs

I love being a voice talent! :)

Counting the days...

2010-10-08T12:25:00.003+08:00

...21 more to go to be exact. Just when you want time to speed up, it suddenly feels like it's moving at a snail's pace. Sigh. Our honeymoon trip is making me this anxious. I am just so excited to finally get away from work, stress, the hustle and bustle of everyday city life.

Some days when things get too hectic or tension-filled at work, I sit alone in my office, close my eyes, and picture me and my husband holding hands and wading in knee-deep, crystal clear water, white sand between our toes, sun glistening on our tanned skin.

We fly off on October 28. Destination: Boracay, where two prestigious hotels await. Can't wait. My butt is literally writhing in anticipation. Teehee. While I wait and count the days, I stare longingly at this...

Watch this!

2010-10-02T10:24:00.004+08:00

I found this on Youtube. My very first dubbing project with Twenty Plus Studios - SECRETO DE AMOR. Circa 2004-2005. I got the lead role, Maria Clara, and my leading man, Carlos Raul, was voiced by my good friend Jess the Blade. The project was directed by Direk Liza Cornejo. When I found this clip, I felt myself drift back to many years ago, when I was still quite new in the industry.

Before Twenty Plus, I was already doing projects with Roadrunner. My very first telenovela with them was that Ian Veneracion-Vina Morales-Eula Valdes series. I was a newbie, but I won the bida role! I got the part of Vina Morales. Wow. Trip down memory lane.

Dubbing is LOVE!

:)

Here's hoping...

2010-10-01T06:29:00.002+08:00

A true leader has faith in his people. He believes in their capabilities. His faith in them is unwavering. He gives them chances to grow and spread their wings and shine. He gives them the chance to become leaders, too, someday.

A true leader is a diamond in the rough. In time, we will find ourselves someone who can really lead us. Someone who is not easily swayed. Someone who has the courage to say what's on his mind, and is never afraid to be honest. Someone who will not look for a scapegoat for his failures and wrong choices.

For now, unfortunately, we have to settle for the one who does not have the capability to lead or inspire. But though he disappoints with his incompetence, let us not be disheartened. Let this not bring us down. The failure of the King may be a heavy burden to bear, but it cannot shake the strength of the army. Let us continue to give our best, fight every battle with passion, give what we are expected to deliver. Let our hearts remain steadfast, with the hope that someday, a true leader worthy of our love, respect and loyalty will rise.

What I've learned so far...

2010-09-25T10:23:00.001+08:00

Being married means re-discovering your partner all over again in some ways, even if in our case, Vin and I have been together for a decade. Living together in one roof will show you little things that you never saw before. And I think the keys to make things work are love, communication, adjustment and compromise.

We lovingly adjust to each other's little quirks and OC-ness. Vin doesn't like spillage on the lids of ketchup bottles or peanut butter jars, so I keep them clean. I'm a messy cook, with dishes strewn all over the sink and peelings piled on the countertop. Vin cleans everything up, so my kitchen remains spic and span. When eating toast, he simply scrapes the surface of the butter lightly to keep its rectangular shape, so I follow suit. I eat ice cream straight from the tub and cake straight from the box, and he now does the same. I cook, he cleans, I wash the dishes, he wipes the table and the place mats and refills the jar of lemon water and takes out the garbage. He picks up after me, I pick up after him, without so much of a grumble.

At the end of the day, when the lights are all turned off, we whisper a prayer together and hold hands while we sleep. It's wonderful. The greatest challenge now is to keep our marriage this beautiful as time goes by. We're taking things one step at a time, learning things by the day, enjoying each moment and celebrating every little progress. Our adventure is just beginning and so far the ride has been terrific. I believe the secret is to let God take the wheel and trusting His itinerary.

:)

Becoming Mrs. Carilo

2010-09-16T11:10:00.008+08:00

September 8, 2010 was our Big Day. After being boyfriend and girlfriend for ten years, Vin and I finally tied the knot and are now officially Mr. and Mrs. Carilo.

It was the perfect day to get married. It was Mama Mary's birthday. And we were blessed with such lovely weather. We were surrounded by our families, relatives and friends, mostly people who loved us and cared about us. They say one can never have a flawless wedding. True, ours had some minor glitches. But all in all, everything was absolutely beautiful!

More wedding photos to be posted soon.

After a quick mini-honeymoon (our REAL honeymoon is scheduled next month), Vin and I finally moved into our new home. How does it feel like? Not so different. Only now I get to wake up next to the man I love every single day of my life.

I'm going through a bit of an adjustment phase though. I've lived with my parents for 31 years. Now I'm super missing my Dad and Mom, and my siblings, too. I miss the noises in our old home, my Dad's booming voice, my Mom singing in the kitchen, my sisters and my brother making kulitan. I find it quite lonely sometimes, being away from them. To comfort myself, I remind myself that the old house is a mere stone's throw away, just a 3-minute drive away (5-minutes if you get stuck in Don Antonio traffic). I know I'll eventually get used to this new setup. It's gonna take time, but everything's going to be alright.

Thank you to everyone who helped and supported us during the months and weeks leading to our Big Day. A lot of my friends "sponsored" the wedding by giving free services. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart! And I know it was a working day, so thank you to everyone who took a leave just to be part of my Big Day. God bless you! :)

This girl is married, and oh-so-happy, in every sense of the word.

:)

Check out more wacky shots at www.litratojuan.com

Bridal Shower Surprise!

2010-08-28T12:37:00.009+08:00

I had an awesome bridal shower surprise last night at Centerstage Tomas Morato. I got there late because I had to sleep off a raging migraine. When Alvin and I entered the videoke room, I was greeted by my family, Len and Mike and my friends from French class. Such a happy gathering of the people closest to my heart! Nadine and Jada arrived a few minutes later. We had an overload of food, super fun games (courtesy of Len! Thank you!), and goodies galore! My sisters Adie and Bek took care of designing the labels and prettifying the prize cupcakes and candy souvenirs. And just this morning, Mom and Adie told me about their trip to Tomas Morato to scout for a good venue, braving the rain, too! I was super touched! I am loved in so many ways. Thank you!

It was a wonderful night! Not the typical un-wholesome kinda party, but fun-er! Super thanks to everyone who shared their time (and singing prowess) with me last night. I had a blast!

Mike, Len, Bride-to-be Me!, Adie, Ant, Bek and Mommy. Thank you! :)

Mes tres amis! Merci beaucoup! :)

One of the games played was this one. Making a wedding gown out of tissue paper. This was the winning team: Jada and Edna as designers and Nadine was the model.

Awww... antok na si Mommy. :)

So who says your fiance can't be part of your wedding shower? Tee-hee! Excited to be his missus. :)

Thanks, Mommy, Adie, Bek and Len! Love you!

:)

Updates...

2010-08-14T09:22:00.013+08:00

I finally saw my partially complete wedding gown last night, and it's gorgeous! I had my second fitting with Mommy Virgie last night at her place. Since the groom is not allowed to see his bride in her gown before the wedding day, Alvin patiently waited outside the house. I was tempted to take a picture of the gown, in all its lacy, golden splendor. But I decided against it. Syempre dapat surprise. :)

I tried the gown on with my wedding shoes, too. I got them a few weeks back. My friend Pam and I went to the dep store of SM Megamall one evening, and went home with happy and triumphant smiles. Super bilis lang namin nahanap. It was like I was meant to find them right then and there.

Now that we're talking about SM's dep store, I am amazed at how fab their Parisian designs are now. I remember back then when their shoe styles were awful. You really didn't want to buy them no matter how easy on the budget they were. But it seems they've gone through a fashion overhaul over the years, and the shoes are just delish! Still inexpensive, and now looking so much better! Pam was able to buy a pair of very chic, high-heeled gray booties. The camel heels I wanted didn't have my size. But Alvin and I went to the dep store in SM North Edsa and found them there, and he bought the shoes for me. Yey! :)

Parisian and What A Girl Wants in SM Dep Store are now on mine and Pam's shopping lists from now on.

----------

I got super imbyerna with the first printing company we found for our wedding invitations. They actually do printing for my Dad's school. Their rates are cheap, so Vin and I decided to get them to print our invites. The problem is, they're sobrang tamad! Or maybe they just didn't want to accommodate us. I was trying to get a quotation, and they really took their sweet time to come up with the very simple price list. I had to rush to their office pa and talk to the girl who promised to send the quotation to my sister's email a million years ago. I had to be masungit just to make them move. So, my fiance and I scouted for a different supplier and our friend, Tita Mags, recommended New World Printing Corp. They were able to deliver our invitations just in time. And the invites look so much better, too! The colors are brighter, the paper they used was better. More importantly, hindi ako na-stress.

So now Vin and I are acting like couriers, going around the metro to distribute our wedding invitations, braving traffic, heat and rain. Nakakapagod, but it's so much fun! Check out the design of our invitation on our wedding blog.

:)

----------

Someone told me, after finding out I was a radio announcer (and not a doctor or a lawyer), "Okay lang. Ang importante naman may trabaho."

This made me smile. I wasn't offended at all. I get this kind of reaction from a few people, and I'm used to it. People react differently when they learn about my job. Some chuckle and think that it's not an occupation to be taken seriously. Some, most of them actually, are impressed, sometimes awed. Radio DJs are considered celebrities, too.

I guess the most important thing of all is how I see my work as a radio personality. We go on air, wearing big smiles and making sure our voices sound like sunshine even if we're going through a storm. We fill the radio waves not just with music you love, but with all the knowledge we've got and all the humor we can squeeze out of ourselves. We take pride in knowing there are hundreds of listeners tuning in to us every single day, singing along with the songs we play, laughing with us, sharing a part of their day with us, making them feel happy or nostalgic, or sometimes mad and angry. We make you feel kilig everytime we greet you and your friends on air. We're voices on the other end of the radio you have at home, or the stereo in your car. Voices that have become your friends, your companions. We may not be saving lives like doctors in a hospital, or doing something huge and important like a lawyer fighting for a case or a politician passing a law, but we sure as hell try our very best to give you really good entertainment on your radio as you go through your day. We make sure you're not bored at work, or while you're stuck in traffic. We make sure every time you tune in, it's a worthwhile listening experience.

"DJ lang" daw ang work ko. I just smile.

:)

Wishful thinking...

2010-07-28T06:57:00.002+08:00

Oh, to have Martha Stewart organize my wedding. Sigh.

I remember browsing through a copy of Martha Stewart Weddings Philippines several times while planning for my big day, getting tips and ideas here and there. I was lucky to have met and interviewed on my show the editor-in-chief, Tata Mapa. Now this lovely, energetic lady was even luckier to have met Ms. Stewart herself during a US trip.

Martha Stewart, you are inspiring.

Toink!

2010-07-28T06:44:00.002+08:00

Lead actress in a local soap opera plays an emotional scene. After a dramatic confrontation, she tries to get out of the office. She runs to one corner and tries to push open a door. She fails. She pushes another door. Fails. Then she cries aloud, "I need to get out!" Camera zooms in on a sign on the door: PULL to open.

She reads this, sniffs, and pulls the door open, exiting with her head held high.

Hilarious.

Copycat!

2010-07-26T20:14:00.000+08:00

Someone's trying to be like me. She's trying to copy the way I talk, getting into the same interests and hobbies. I'm flattered. Imitation IS the best form of praise. But part of me is irked, too. C'mon, m'dear. Get over it. This is where I do a Cherie Gil smirk and say, "Gaya-gaya!"

Bonus!

2010-07-23T16:03:00.005+08:00

When your dearest friends give you presents and surprises, those are just bonuses. The greatest treasure, really, is the friendship. As Vin and I prepare for our big day, we stumble upon gifts from friends every now and then. My makeup-artist-turned-friend Cheryl Cabanos gave me an impossibly generous package. This excites me tremendously, as she knows my face very well, and she knows how to masterfully work her magic on my visage even with her eyes closed. If there's one person who can really make me into a stunning bride, it's Cheryl. My buddy and partner-on-air Jada gifted me and Vin with her photo booth services. That's gonna add so much fun to the wedding reception! And for our honeymoon, my good friend Tita Mags of Mossimo gave us accommodations to this wonderful place called Discovery Shores Boracay!

We've been to Boracay a few times, but we've never stayed at its topnotch hotels/resorts. Now we get to experience it. As newlyweds on our honeymoon, too! That makes it even more thrilling! Sana October na! I can't wait! Tee-hee!

Ang daming bonus! And the blessings keep on rolling in. We are ever so thankful. Thank you, God, for the graces and the gift of friendship!

:)

Excited!

2010-07-13T20:36:00.004+08:00

My big day's just around the corner. Very, very soon I shall become Mrs. Carilo. Sometimes when I stop and think about it, it still takes me by surprise. It can still seem so surreal, even after all the wedding preparations we've been doing. I'm excited! I know the days have been slipping by so fast lately. But still I want to go fast forward to September!

Almost everything is in order. You can check out our wedding blog for more stories and photos. We have yet to print our invitations though. Alvin's having a hard time getting principal sponsors. Hopefully everything will be done by this week. On Thursday, we'll be meeting up with our director and coordinator, Jet Loveria and the rest of DJTeam, Inc. I've worked with them for years, and they are amazing! We're kampante because Vin and I know our wedding program is in good and creative hands. We'll be meeting up with our videographer next week as well. Instead of a pre-nup photo shoot, we're actually doing a pre-nup video with Geronimo Photographico. I'm sure it's gonna be super fun! We're working on a few surprises for our guests, too. The creative director in me cannot be contained. I really want everything to be special, fun and different.

I had a little chat with my friend, May Valdez, this afternoon at the station. She told me about the weddings she has organized before. According to her, most of the grooms don't really want to be involved in all the planning and preparations. Corny. :(

It made me feel very happy and incredibly thankful for having a fiance who's with me every step of the way. We've become such an inseparable duo, Vin and I, for the past few months. We spend all our free time together, working on wedding preps, meeting suppliers, planning this and that. We even have a wedding preps scrapbook! Whenever we accomplish a task or two, we sit down and get crafty (and cheesy,too), complete with our stickers and colored pens and markers. That's probably the reason why preparing for our wedding hasn't been too stressful at all. We got each other's backs, we're always in it together, and we're having fun while working. For us, the journey's just as important as the destination. Every plan, every detail, every task accomplished together is a cherished moment.

Look at me, such a gushing bride! Bear with me, my dear friends. I'm giddy with excitement! Every time my fiance takes my hand, kisses it with a smile and says "We're getting married!" my heart goes on a frenzy. I just can't wait!

:)

A little loyalty and respect, please?

2010-07-05T09:29:00.007+08:00

A guy friend of mine attended a stag party just recently. He told me that he and his buddies paid for two women to go "all the way" with the groom. He was chuckling while telling this story, and I tried to laugh along with him. But honestly, I am appalled! Most women already disagree with the whole stripping thing during bachelor parties. Now the modern day stag has evolved into something like this? The groom having sex with another woman who isn't his bride? No wonder there are so many broken families, divorced couples, cheating husbands, cheating wives. Has it become passe to honor and respect the sacredness of love and marriage? Has infidelity become sort of a trend? Why are people treating disloyalty like it's a fact of life accepted by today's society?

Call me naive or old-fashioned, but I am completely against this act of unfaithfulness. Marriage is about two people who love each other, and choose to remain faithful to one another. Their bodies, their hearts and their souls are exclusively for each other. This also applies to the couple before they are wed. Aren't two people in a relationship supposed to be loyal, too? So if, during a bachelor/ette party, you decide to do the deed with someone else just for kicks, doesn't that show disrespect for your partner? It's like trampling on your relationship for a moment, just so you can have one last bit of fun before you tie the knot.

It's sad, really. After I heard my friend's story, I truly felt sad for the bride. Does she know that her husband-to-be, the man who promises to love ONLY HER for the rest of his life, went "all the way" with another woman just a few days before he says 'I do'? Does she have any idea at all that this man who swore to be faithful just kissed, embraced, touched and became intimate with someone else? I bet if she knew, if she found out, it would break her heart. If she and the groom switched places, if it was she who slept with another man just for fun, would he take it lightly and say it's okay? I seriously doubt that.

When it comes to love, relationships and marriage, have loyalty and respect become out-of-date?

The lover is a monotheist who knows that other people worship different gods but cannot himself imagine that there could be other gods. ~Theodor Reik, Of Love and Lust, 1957

Crazy for HP!

2010-06-29T19:23:00.004+08:00

Image borrowed from files.wordpress.com

I just saw the trailer of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. For reasons other people will never understand, I cried. Four years ago, my girlfriends persuaded me to read the books. After Sorcerer's Stone, I was hooked. The wizards have won over my very soul for the rest of my life.

It all boils down now to the final chapter, where Harry finally comes face to face with destiny, and the one enemy that can never survive while he exists. The final installment will be divided into two parts. The first half will be shown on November of this year. We'll have to wait until July, 2011 for Part 2. But even now, I find myself feeling quite sad that the end has come for this literary masterpiece-turned-silver screen blockbuster. What is there left to expect after Harry Potter? I remember reading a Daniel Radcliffe interview on the net, and he mentioned being worried about life after filming Harry Potter. They were all so used to making the movies that it's hard for them to imagine life afterwards. I think I understand how he feels. After the last chapter, there will be nothing else to look forward to.

Millions of Harry Potter fans all over the globe, including myself, will be waiting eagerly for the Deathly Hallows on the big screen. I re-read all seven books a month or two before an HP film is released. So now I'm dusting off my J.K. Rowling collection so I can start reading them again, for the third time. And I will never grow tired of going through the stories over and over.

Wanna check out the trailer? It's awesome! Click here!

6pax!

2010-06-28T18:23:00.002+08:00

Dad is getting the new Samsung 3D TV for the family room, and I heard him tell the guy from Abenson's on the phone:

Kaya lang dalawang glasses lang kasama niyan. Eh six kami dito eh. Kukuha pa ako ng apat.

Yey! I'm still part of the head count! I know I'm getting married soon, and I won't be living with the family in this new house anymore. But I still want to feel part of it. I still want to be included. And I'd like to have my own pair of 3D glasses, too.

:)

Blondes don't have more fun...

2010-06-28T08:10:00.002+08:00

...BRIDES do! ;)

If you need a bit of help on your wedding preps, check out Bridalbook.ph!

My friend, Doc Harry, shared the link to the site with me as soon as he found out that I was tying the knot. And the site has been very helpful! I found my photographer (Terry Uy) and videographer (Geronimo Photographico) through their suppliers' directory. You'll love the look of the website, too! So go check it out!

:)

Wave 891 rules!

2010-06-22T09:12:00.008+08:00

Top left: Nathan J, Jun DJ, Mighty Dash, Erik Mana, Jerome, Anthony Suntay
Bottom left: Tayshaun, Gerric Yo, DJ Marlon, Janice, Anne, Gia, George, Jada
Not in photo: Pam, Jason

Have you heard the new jingle of Wave 891? It's AWESOME! We play it every top of the hour, with the voices (and amazing talents) of Marcus & Amber Davis, and Pikaso.

Along with the new jingle come new photos! We'll be uploading some of these on our website soon. Boy, am I glad I'm part of the metro's most influential R&B station. Wave rocks, baby! ;)

The women of Wave 891: (from left) Anne, Gia, Janice, George, Jada
Not in photo: Pam

Daddy's Little Girl

2010-06-21T09:17:00.006+08:00

I can't begin to tell you how awesome my parents are. There may be times I complain about a flaw or two, but really, I have the best daddy and mommy in the world and beyond. They love me, and I know that they will no matter what happens. That's what makes them so wonderful.

Yesterday's Father's Day celebration was a happy one, with my fiance joining us for a late lunch at Chili's. We gave Dad a gigantic greeting card, with a message from each of us, and our pictures pasted on it. It's a simple gift, but with a lot of love. (I already got him a new wallet last week. Advanced FD present.)I've always considered myself as a daddy's girl. Me and him are so much alike. We're both headstrong and stubborn and we both get super init ulo when we're hungry. We both strive to be on top, to become leaders instead of followers. I am what I am now mainly because of his influence. At 31 (heck, even when I'm 50), I'll always be proud to be Daddy's Little Girl.

On this week's Post Secret, celebrating Father's Day, these are my favorites:

Images borrowed from Post Secret. To those who sent these, thank you for sharing wonderful messages. I feel exactly the same way about my folks. Nobody in this world can ever take the place of my parents in my heart and in my life. I know someday I'm gonna be a terrific mother. Because I learned from the best! I was raised well and with so much love by two of the most awesome people on earth - Dad and Mom.

:)

Dear old house...

2010-06-07T20:47:00.003+08:00

Just recently, my Dad purchased a new house. My family is starting to move their clothes and a few necessities to the new place as I write this. I've only seen the photos, but it's a big and beautiful new home. They're all excited to move out of this old house in BF. I, on the other hand, am feeling passive and somewhat sad. I can't really share in their enthusiasm because the new house was purchased without me being part of the head count anymore. I can't be excited because I don't have a room there to begin with. After my wedding this September, my husband and I will have the old house to ourselves. I'm staying in BF to start a new life. That's why the new Asis residence no longer includes me.

Although I know this would happen eventually and I can't begin to tell you how eager I am to live in this old BF place with my husband, a part of me is feeling sad. I can't help but feel left out. For the next few months, until my wedding day on September 8, I'll be bunking in with my sister, Adie. There isn't even a guest room where I can temporarily place my things. So I have no choice but to borrow a bit of space in her bedroom. Sigh.

I guess that's why I feel no affection for the new house, no matter how grand and beautiful it is. I'm not that excited to see it. I'm happy for my folks because they've always wanted to move to a bigger house in a better village. But my heart stays in this old place. This has been my home for the past nineteen years. And this will continue to be my home as I start a new chapter in my life very soon, as Alvin's wife.

I'm staying with you, dear old house. Because I know that no matter what happens, you'll always have a room for me.

My wedding blog!

2010-05-27T15:18:00.002+08:00

My beau and I are all set to take the route to happily ever after! Allow us to share with you the details, the stories behind the preparations, our suppliers, the wonderful people we meet along the way, photos and more. Until we reach the day of our maiden voyage to forever - September 8, 2010.

alvinandanne.blogspot.com

:)

En route to forever...

2010-05-19T11:12:00.002+08:00

He called me up in the middle of the night. Was I asleep? Not yet, I told him. I just spoke to my mom about the wedding reception venue. He wanted to drop by and talk. He was feeling sad about a story I told him that night while having dinner. He just needed to see me.

I stepped into his car and we embraced. I was whispering to him in a comforting tone. He looked into my eyes and started to talk. About how he was sorry I didn't have the engagement story that other people wanted to hear. About how he felt sad about it. We've been together for ten years. We broke up, I got hurt. We found each other again. He wanted to do something to show me that I deserve something wonderful. He spoke of how much he loves me. About a realization he had, that it was time for him to surrender to faith - faith in me, faith in our love and faith in God.

"I know that when your friends ask for an engagement story, you tell them we were together, we had a heart to heart talk, and we decided to spend the rest of our lives together. Honey, this is now a story that you can finish..."

He was suddenly holding a small, blue, velvet box. The lovely diamond sparkled as soon as it was uncovered.

"Please make me the proudest and happiest man on earth by becoming my wife. Ann Joy Marie Serrano Asis, I love you. Will you marry me?"

I don't even remember what I said. I just know I was in his arms and I was crying rivers of happy tears. The ring looked so beautiful on my finger.

He wasn't really feeling depressed about the story I told him. He just wanted to catch me off guard. He got out of bed in the middle of the night, knowing that it was already the perfect moment for a simple but most heartfelt proposal.

Then we were at the church. The same church we'd be married in on September 8. The lights were off and everything was quiet. Peaceful. The whole proposal speech was said again. This time, with God as our witness. We held hands and prayed together, entrusting everything to Him.

We've been engaged since last year, officially when we talked and decided to get married in 2010. I didn't need to show a ring. What for? I already had a man beside me who loved me with all his heart and would never stop loving me even after I lose all my teeth and hair. Now, in the middle of all our wedding plans, I got proposed to. So beautifully. I wouldn't have it any other way.

That is my engagement story. No drama, no fanfare, no candlelight and champagne. Just me and him, a peaceful church and a beautiful diamond. It's absolutely perfect.

A lesson learned...

2010-05-19T10:29:00.001+08:00

My Sorento got bumped from behind yesterday. The girl driver behind me didn't have her eyes on the road, and braked too late. There wasn't any dent. Just a few scratches that will have me pay around 4,000 pesos to get the whole panel repainted. I should be seething with anger at this girl's stupidity. At first I was. But after the whole incident of waiting for the cops and going to the police station and all, my anger slowly evaporated and was replaced by pity. I had a realization last night, while driving home from the police station. I think the reason why this happened was for me to see how lucky I am. The girl was 23 years old, and early motherhood had already stripped her of the luster of youth. Her husband, according to her, was jobless. She didn't have family members in Manila, save for in-laws who were not willing to help her out of the situation. She was a sorry case.

When the accident happened, I called my brother, Ant, for assistance. He's the one who's knowledgeable on cars, and I knew he would know what to do. My bro asked where I was, dropped what he was doing and immediately rushed to the scene. He was there in no time. After a while, my fiance also drove to the location as soon as he got my call. If my Dad wasn't out of town that day, he would've come to my rescue as well. Not that I looked like a damsel in distress. I was standing there in a bright dress and high heels and red curly hair, berating the young driver who had no money to shell out for the damage she caused. But then I also had a family and a fiance who would rush to my side in times of need, anytime, and wherever they may be. I am not alone. That's what makes me very lucky.

The young girl's uncle appeared out of nowhere at the police station, and had the guts to act obnoxiously as if I was the one at fault. He was the kind of middle-aged man na hindi naman big-time, umasenso lang ng konti umasta na as if he's the boss but he's really just an employee. Not that I'm belittling him. If he acted politely and deserving of respect, I wouldn't tell everyone about how pathetic he was. He looked at the damage and said, "Insurance na lang. 4,000? That's robbery." When I relayed this line to my Dad that night, he said, "Kawawa naman. Kung nandun ako, binigay ko na lang sa kaniya yung 4,000." Frankly, we didn't need them to pay for the damages because we can very easily have it done ourselves. We just wanted the reckless young girl to learn a lesson and own up to her mistake. But unfortunately, she was in the company of people who had twisted views on respect, humility and what is right and wrong.

Again, that's what makes me very lucky. I have a respectable family. My Dad raised and taught me well. I am never alone. When I find myself in trouble, there will always be people rushing to my aid. I'm 31 and I have a terrific career. I'm engaged to the most wonderful man who will make sure he's always there to hold my hand when I'm in a rut. Plus, I sparkle. Tee-hee!

So, quite naturally, my Dad told me to drop the case. It's a waste of time and effort. That's how forgiving my Dad is. This is like the 3rd or 4th time he let our offenders go without paying for the damages. When my sister got hit by a tricycle driver, the guy was sincerely apologetic and pooled a total of two thousand pesos from his "kita" that day. We didn't get the money, and we admired his humbleness and his effort to make up for what he did wrong. His father probably taught him well, too.

Lord I come before You, desiring to provide thanks.
Father, I have so much to be thankful for, things unseen and seen,
that You have done in my life.

Ayos!

2010-05-18T09:57:00.002+08:00

I am amazed at how tech-advanced our government agencies have become! Years ago, you'd have to fall in-line forever at NSO if you needed important documents. Now, all you have to do is log on to their website - www.ecensus.com.ph - and request for the papers you need. Pay the bill at BDO, wait about two weeks and voila! The docs will be delivered straight to your doorstep. Hanep!

NSO-certified birth certificates and CENOMAR already settled. Marriage license na lang. Now if only the Quezon City Hall also had an online service as efficient as NSO's. Why not? Hint hint to Mayor Bistek!

:)

Here comes the Bride!

2010-05-13T16:15:00.002+08:00

In four months, I am about to begin a new and exciting chapter in my life. I shall become his wife. Mrs. Carilo. It sounds wonderful.

Yesterday, my fiance and I spent the afternoon scouting for condos and wedding reception venues. We fell in-love with this amazing place in Tandang Sora. Two reception venues are on our list, too. Both are beautiful. We have yet to sit down and study the amenities of each. The church has been pencil-booked. We're working on the entourage and guest lists.

Wow. It really is happening.

I'll tell more about it once everything is in order. Right now, I just can't contain my happiness. We were holding hands yesterday, looking at the lovely facade of Magnolia Place.

Anne: I can't believe this is happening.
Alvin: It is, baby. We're getting married.
Anne: I know!
Alvin: Do you believe now?
Anne: I believe in you.
Alvin: I believe in you, too. I believe in us.

:)

Updates..

2010-05-09T07:21:00.003+08:00

Last Thursday on Wave 891's Talk of Fame, I guested dubber friends of mine - Clarisse Castelo and Jess Reyes (aka Jess The Blade) - to talk about the industry. Jess The Blade on my show, can you believe that? One of Philippine Radio's pillars. I remember back in high school, I used to listen to him on Magic 89.9. He was one of my favorite jocks, together with The Gaucho and Joe D'Mango.

(Jess, if you're reading this, I'm not trying to hit on your age, okay? I'm just saying you're awesome, and I can't believe you actually guested on my show. After nine years in radio, I actually still feel like a newbie sometimes.)

Anyway. I first saw The Blade in person when my mentor, Don Henry of K-Lite, brought me to the station for training. That was about eleven years ago. During my senior year in UST and Henry would bring me to K-Lite to learn the ropes while he boarded. And now, I'm actually friends with Jess The Blade. I've hosted events with him. I've worked with him, dubbing telenovelas and all. He was my leading man in many of those telenovelas, too. How cool is that? And he guested on my radio show. I am honored. Thanks, Jess! Who knows? You might be hearing more of his voice on our side of the frequency real soon. Let's all wait and see.

:)

----------

A lot of pesky people have been asking me these questions lately:

When do you plan to get pregnant?
When are you going to have a baby?
Are you ready to sacrifice now?
You're 31. When do you plan to have a baby?

First of all, let me just tell you that you annoy me big time. I seriously believe that people annoy you with dumb, tactless questions and brag about their babies to girls who don't have any just to cover up for something missing in their own lives.

So here is my answer. I am not yet married. Do you see a wedding ring on my finger right now? Nada. I will get pregnant AFTER I get married. My fiance and I are tying the knot before the fourth quarter of this year. After that, we want to spend a couple of months enjoying our new "husband and wife" status. I want to bask in that wonderful feeling of being his wife, taking care of my husband without having to think of a baby just yet. Then, by next year probably, we plan to get pregnant. That's how the order of things are in my world. My parents aren't keen on the idea of getting grandchildren first before getting sons-in-law. Frankly, I think that kinda zaps away the romance in the starting years of newlyweds. And besides, I want to fit into a very sexy wedding gown.

If you don't like this answer, then don't ask me tactless questions. They're rude, and you'll get slapped on the face with a hurtful reply.

----------

It's Mother's Day! Kudos to all the moms and moms-to-be out there. And to the most awesome mommy in the whole world - MINE! - Ma, you rock! Love you!

:)

LOL!

2010-05-05T16:43:00.003+08:00

I don't know. Maybe it is my fault, because I keep on reading what you write. I really should stop. One of these days I will. Right now I just can't help but guffaw. You're trying to hit on someone (whoever he or she is, the poor dude) who is grammatically incorrect and slow in the thinking department. But, m'dear, you're lacking on that, too. I really believe that one must look at the mirror first before lashing out on someone else. If you're a hundred and one percent sure that you're not guilty of the same mistake, then by all means, fire away!

Don't get me wrong. I'm not trying to pick a fight. I have you to thank, actually, for making my day. That was a good laugh. I'm just being kind enough to tell you that you're really not in the position to poke fun or ridicule someone who can't compose a complete, error-free sentence. If you haven't realized that yet, girl, it's time you did.

Them's and you is no difference.

I die. I swear to God, you are one funny, funny girl.

To my Carl...

2010-04-16T08:55:00.003+08:00

We met on this day, ten years ago. And life has never been more beautiful.

I'm so glad I'm on this adventure with you.

With all my love,
Your Ellie

Reality bites.

2010-04-12T15:30:00.003+08:00

Found this on PostSecret this week:

photo borrowed from postsecret.blogspot.com

And the song goes, "Don't it always seem to go that you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone."

Sad, but true.

I did it!

2010-04-07T13:02:00.002+08:00

I have always, always wanted to come up with my own food review blog. Since dining out and discovering places to chow are fave hobbies of my beau and myself, I thought, why not write about my gastronomic experiences? Initially, I wanted the blog to focus not only on restos but on hotels as well, since I share a passionate affair with hotels and everything that makes them divine. But checking in just to blog is kinda expensive for this radio deejay's meager salary. So food it is! I am procrastinating no more. After years of wanting to do this, I finally made it happen.

Check out my new blog and my very first feature. I hope that, in time, it turns out to be something like Julie Powell's. Baby steps, m'dear.

Join me as I chronicle the mini-adventures of a girl who loves to EAT & TELL - yours truly.

:)

Hells wedding bells!

2010-04-01T11:22:00.004+08:00

Filipinos are known for having extravagant weddings. Huge ceremonies held in cathedrals, with hotel ballroom receptions housing a multitude of guests. Immediate family members, relatives, distant relatives, friends, acquaintances, neighbors, government officials, strangers. True, occasions like these seem festive, happy, colorful. Personally, though, I also think it too loud, and the intimacy that a wedding ceremony should have gets lost in the crazy, busy fanfare. The wedding ceremony becomes a carnival instead of a celebration of love.

I remember my good friend Jada telling me, "A wedding ceremony is really just something you do for your family and not for yourself." If this is always the case, then I would rather become one of those couples who never get married but live together, have kids and have wonderful relationships. What is getting married for anyway? Why do we do it for other people when the sole reason for this union is because two individuals love each other and want to spend their lives together 'til death do them part?

Frankly, it doesn't make any sense to me. I've attended big, big weddings, with hundreds of guests who barely know each other and, in some unfortunate cases, barely know the bride and groom as well. Where is the intimacy in that? Why invite guests who don't truly care for you, and some don't even know you?

That's the reason why the dream wedding I have envisioned in my head is very small, very intimate and only involves my beau and myself, our immediate families, and the very select and few relatives and friends who sincerely care for us. Why do I have to invite a distant relative who can't even remember my full name, or has totally forgotten my existence in the family tree? It's not being selfish. It's being real. I want my wedding to be intimate. And intimacy only exists among people who genuinely love and care for one another. No hypocrisy. I want my wedding to be true in every sense. True to the word love. True to the word care. True to the word family. True to the word togetherness. I want my wedding to be a celebration of love, not a show staged merely to entertain a cold audience.

Two people decide to get married because, somewhere in the chaos of this mad world, they've found true love and can no longer imagine themselves living a single day apart. Isn't it absolutely sensible to celebrate this romantic union, this magical occurrence, with people closest to their hearts, people who have been witnesses to their love story, people who would shed sincere tears of joy while watching them exchange vows and kiss?

Some would probably say I'm selfish and crazy. Some would think I'm a hopeless romantic. I'd like to think I'm being real. If you can bear with the thought of inviting someone who doesn't care about you to such a momentous event in your life, then by all means go ahead. Whatever floats your boat. But I want my boat to carry only those who truly, truly love me.

My 31st Mad Hatter Birthday Lunch

2010-03-25T16:09:00.010+08:00

Yes, folks, this girl is now thirty-one years old. Lucky enough to be blessed with looks that make me seem a few years younger. I always throw a little get-together at work each year. This year, to mark my last year on the calendar, I wanted to make things a tad different. A Mad Hatter birthday lunch. The mini-party was held yesterday at the Wave 891 office, attended by my fellow jocks, the Wave staff, my siblings and my fiance Alvin. Oh, what fun!

What made the whole event more interesting was the photobooth! My buddy Jada has a photobooth business, Litrato Juan. As a birthday present, she brought one of her booths to the station, absolutely free! Wheee! Many thanks and lotsa love to you, mare. Now I have awesome photos to show!

More photos on my Facebook account (for friends) or the Litrato Juan site.

Awesome party! I know the rest of my year will be filled with adventures and experiences as fun and colorful as these pictures. Looking forward! But first, lemme blow 'em 31 candles on my cake.

:)

Wave 891 is turning 9!

2010-03-19T11:45:00.003+08:00

The metro's most influential R&B station has reached another milestone - 9 years, baby! And boy, are we feeling lucky this year! We're inviting you to party with us. Let's celebrate!

We're bringing 9 lucky listeners and their plus ones up to the VIP floor to party like celebrities! How to be part of that lucky 9 group? Tune in for more details.

:)

Love is all you need.

2010-02-17T10:13:00.005+08:00

Valentine weekend's PostSecret was a collection of "awww" moments and statements. These two touched my heart the most:

They say dance like there's no tomorrow. Same goes for love. Show the people you love how much they mean to you. Another day on earth is never really guaranteed. So while you still can, give love!

It's easy to declare words of love every single moment of your life to your significant other. The two people we tend to take for granted are our parents. Dad and Mom are always there, and in our minds we think they always will be. Oftentimes we get so immersed in our own lives that we forget to say "I love you" and "Thank you" to the two people who will definitely stick with you through thick and thin. And on this note, I say, "Daddy, Mommy, no other parent can ever, ever come close to you."

----------

Love that lasts through thick and thin is this:

This one got me teary-eyed. Call me a hopeless romantic but I always love a happy ending. Now I know marriages don't always end in a crescendo with flowers and rainbows and hearts and happy children. But I also know that it is possible. My parents have been together for 31 years, and you'll still see them holding hands in public, or you'll see my dad with his arm around my mom's shoulder. My Lolo Efren and Lola Gaya have stayed together until Lola passed away. Lolo never remarried, and up until the day he died, he would always tell us that Lola was the most beautiful girl in their school. I learned from their story that it is possible for love to last forever. It's a rough and winding road, marriage is. But I believe that faith in God, in love and in each other will see you through.

The month of hearts ain't over yet, so spread the love, y'all! After all, John Lennon was right. Love is all you need.

:)

He amazes me...

2010-02-14T09:44:00.003+08:00

...his patience and understanding are astounding. When everyone else have turned their backs away because of my bitchiness, he smiles and holds me close and whispers calmly to my ear. He is the anchor that holds me steady. He is the wind that helps me soar through the skies. He is the star that keeps me from getting lost. In his arms, I am home.

Happy Valentine's Day to you - the man who holds my heart forever.

Yes!

2010-02-02T16:17:00.002+08:00

I don't make resolutions for the New Year. But this 2010, I decided to follow one. I told myself I wouldn't say no to voicing auditions. We (voice talents) get called to try out for radio and tv commercials, AVPs and other projects. Sometimes it really gets tiring to go to these auditions. I always tell myself, "Why audition? They already have my voice file."

But since I wanted to face this new year with a more positive outlook, I have decided NOT to say no. You know what? It's working for me! I got chosen in the two projects I've auditioned for. So far, I already voiced two RCs, one TVC and an IVRS. Plus the plugs I do for Abs-Cbn Publishing. And it's just the start of the year! Exciting! Ooh la la, I can feel all the good things ready to flow in!

It's like playing Jim Carrey's role in Yes Man! But not overdoing it, of course. I'm gonna live by that positive word all throughout the year - YES!

:)

Bora Bora!

2010-01-26T19:14:00.004+08:00

And so finally, the outing that took eight years in the making pushed through. The whole Wave 891 family flew to Boracay for a much-deserved weekend vacay. Would you believe that was our very first out-of-town company trip? Anyway, we're just happy we finally went to the beach together - the jocks, the AEs, the technicians, the spinners, the management team. Saya!

With my roommates on our last day in Bora: Wave jocks Jason, Anne, Jada and AEs James and Czar

So even if we were very badly inconvenienced by Z-Air (I will diss some more at the end of this post), and even if we weren't able to parasail and go island hopping, we still had an awesome time. 'Til the next outing! When? Geez...I really don't know.

:)

----------

We came up with a new tagline for the airline that took us to Bora:

"Z-Air. Where your inconvenience is our #1 priority!"

Okay, this is why we are pissed with this God-forsaken airline. Our flight to Boracay was delayed three effin' times! We were there (well, at least majority of my officemates were. I was late. Tee-hee!) two hours before the scheduled 12:20PM flight. What time did we leave Manila? 2:45PM!

!*@*#! (String of profanities here.)

And this is why that delay really ticked us off big time. We were gonna land in Kalibo! There was still that 2-hour ride to the pier before the 20-minute ferry trip to our destination.

!*@*#! (Profanities yet again.)

When we finally got to the hotel, it was dark and drizzling and we were all dead tired. Day 1 in Bora was totally wasted. Boo!

But wait, there's more! They were thoughtful enough to think of feeding the passengers they already pissed off. Lo and behold! The meals were like rations. Three to four measly pieces of pork and a cup of plain rice. We took one look at it and went, "Sinong binaha?"

You think the story ends there? Think again. Going back to Manila, our flight got delayed...AGAIN! Susmaryosep!

Our verdict: The award for Major Loser Airline goes to...(drumroll)...YOU!

In fairness, it was a smooth flight. But then again, that all depends on weather conditions.

On a Southwest Airlines flight from Los Angeles to El Paso, I remember the attendant saying this over his microphone:

"We know you have plenty of choices when flying. Thank you very much for choosing Southwest."

We do have a lot of choices. It should be an honor if the client chooses you. So if you want the zest zapped out of your vacation, you already know what airline to choose.

Bonjour, 2010!

2010-01-18T09:16:00.009+08:00

The past year has finally gone. There isn't much to tell about my 2009. I remember a part in the movie Up where Russell says the memories that he remembers the most are the boring ones. Sitting outside the ice cream shop with his dad, counting all the red and blue cars that passed by. The best parts of my 2009 weren't really grand events or milestones or achievements. They were all about simple joys and little things, mostly spent with the man I love. 2008 had been
tumultuous for the two of us. 2009 saw us recovering from past hurts, and healing and growing together. The past year saw us working side by side, doing more things together and spending more time with each other. The result is a love that is stronger than before. I'm glad that we went through very painful experiences in the past because they brought us back together in the end, with an even stronger bond and a more beautiful relationship. After all the stops and starts, I am happy and thankful that I'm standing here with my hand in his. These things may be boring to other people. But they're the ones I remember the most.

I braved cosmetic surgery early last year. Thank you to Dr. Rea Trinidad of Aescultura for a very successful treatment. The surgery was definitely the bravest thing I've ever done. I voluntarily went under the knife. I can still remember how painful it was, but I have absolutely no regrets.

Two years after I was promoted to Assistant Station Manager, I finally got a raise! That was a really big Christmas treat for 2009. It didn't add an extra digit to my pay, but I'm thankful nevertheless. In these trying times, with the recession happening and people losing their jobs here and there, I am in no position to complain.

And of course, 2009 ended with a bang of an adventure - the holiday tour in the US with my family. It was an awesome trip! We went to Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, El Paso and New Mexico.

I was able to link arms with Minnie Mouse, wave with joyful tears at a real Santa
Claus, see wondrous aquatic creatures like otters and jellyfishes and sea horses (the kind you'll never find in our local aquarium), ride the famous Cable Car through the streets of San Francisco, learn about new cultures and cuisines, play with real snow and experience waking
up to a Winter Wonderland! Plus, I got a whole steamed lobster all to myself during one of our lunches in San Fo. How cool is that! :) And all the pictures I've gathered were all rich with new experiences and beautiful sights. Absolutely the best way to end a year that was good to me in a different way. It made me enjoy the little things. It made me feel young again.

Now I'm ready to face 2010. I got a feeling this year's going to be awesome! And I'm starting it with a fresher and more positive outlook, ready to embrace change and usher in all things new and shiny and wonderful! I'm crossing my fingers and saying thank you to God in advance for the many blessings and opportunities to earn and grow. Like Cuba Gooding, Jr. in Jerry Maguire, I spread my arms and say out loud - "show me the money!"

And, this is also the year that I'll be turning into Mrs. Anne Asis-Carilo. Yup, we're tying the knot this year and we're ready to face a new adventure towards forever. We're not doing it the traditional way, and that's what I like about it. Very Sex and the City. Very Carrie-exciting. I'll let you in on the details soon.

I'm giving 2010 a high five. I'm smiling brightly at life, and my heart does a somersault as it grins back. Let this be my time to shine! And it will be.

:)

Hello, San Fo!

2010-01-06T00:01:00.003+08:00

Down to the last week of my US holiday. My family and I are here in San Fo, last stop before we fly back on Friday. It's 8am here, and I am loving the city already, even if I haven't gotten to know it just yet. The morning air is a cold 50-degrees-Fahrenheit, or even less. Our hotel is by the bay, and you can hear the seagulls soaring about outside. I guess it's the thought that my vacation is almost over that is making me feel quite sentimental. I'm trying to savor the last few moments of this trip, and I'm glad San Francisco is capping the experience.

This whole Holiday break has been wonderful. New experiences, new places and sights, endless photographing. From sunny (but still very cold) Los Angeles and San Diego in California to the vast deserts and mountains of El Paso and New Mexico. Now we're back in California, in the welcoming arms of another new city. Hello, San Fo!

Christmas and New Year were spent in El Paso, where my family and our close relatives gathered together for turkey and steaks and presents and love. Our Uncle Fred taught us a lot of things and introduced us to real Mexican food and new ways of eating corn and other vegetables. I learned a bit about old American culture, history, western music, traditions and many other things. It's been great, and now I find myself missing El Paso already.

I'll be home in a few days, blessed with more knowledge and experiences to start the new year. It definitely has been a terrific and unforgettable three weeks. Looking forward to coming back to America again next Christmas and explore and learn from other states. But before I say au revoir, let me enjoy my last few days here in San Francisco.

:)

White Christmas

2009-12-27T15:50:00.012+08:00

My dreams of a white Christmas have come true. Today we drove up the snow-capped mountains of New Mexico to experience what yuletide carols describe as "winter wonderland." We were all wrapped up like burritos, my family and I. The sun was up and fiercely glaring, but you couln't really feel the heat. The air was biting cold. We hopped into our rented van with Uncle Fred behind the wheel, and drove off to New Mexico. We made a stop at the White Sands Park. Yup, you guessed it right. White sands everywhere - fine and powdery - like the ones you can find in our pristine Philippine beaches. The only difference was this place in New Mexico wasn't a beach. It was the desert. After a quick picnic lunch, we were ready to see some snow. My folks and I have never seen real snow before. So we were all very excited.

We could see the mountains from several miles away, their tops covered with snow. The drive up was truly scenic. We passed by pine trees, tall and majestic, with dustings of snow on the branches. Unfortunately, I couldn't take a good picture because we were moving fast. The best I could do was to take all the view in and etch it on my memory. It was all so beautiful. I felt like we were running through a forest of Christmas trees!

We made a stop at the entrance of the Lincoln National Forest, just before entering the tunnel. There was a cliff overlooking the rocks and the trees down below. Our Uncle Fred held our arms tight as we tried to look down the cliff. We took a couple more photos and off we went higher up the snowy mountain. Our second stop was at a park where people sat on rubber tires and glided down the snowy slopes. The view from there was breathtaking. Pine trees all over, and so much snow! My sisters and I showered each other with snow, and the little flakes felt cool and tingly as they landed on my cheeks and on the bridge of my nose. It was such a wonderful experience.

Plus, we were given a treat! We actually spotted deer! Uncle Fred said he had been up the mountains lots of times before but never saw deer. It was everyone's first time. I guess we brought Uncle Fred some good luck. We stopped by the road and took photos. We weren't allowed to go near them so our cameras had to do that for us.

We would've stayed for hours if only we stood the freezing temperature. But it was more than regular Filipino first-timers could handle. I wanted to make angels, but it was just too cold and I could barely feel my toes. We ran back to the van after a few minutes, to the warm sanctuary of a heater. But we had a lot of fun. A White Christmas experience that I'll never forget, that's for sure.

Awesome Disneyland!

2009-12-24T13:10:00.003+08:00

We're spending the holidays in the US, my family and I. The first stop of our US tour was Disneyland in Los Angeles. It's such an incredible place! I can't even begin to explain how magical the whole place is. We spent two days at Disneyland and Disney California. During the first night, we were able to catch the Christmas Parade at Disneyland. It was spectacular! The last character that came out was Santa Claus. As soon as I saw him, I cried and waved happily at him. When Santa said, "Do you believe in the magic of Christmas?" I yelled out an emotional, "Yes!" I felt like I was five again, in a cartoon wonderland, where all wishes and dreams came true. Disneyland is indeed the (2nd) happiest place on earth. The 1st happiest place of course is in the arms of the man who's lovingly and patiently waiting for me to come home.

I'll upload photos soon as I find the time. Merry Christmas!

:)

Dear Pam..

2009-12-17T18:15:00.000+08:00

I just wanted to say thank you so much for the colorful scarf. It's one of the very best gifts I got from a friend this year. Now you might say it's just a scarf. But you taught me how to wear one. You carefully thought of the right gift for my trip. That extra effort made all the difference. So, super thanks, Pam.y! I know I wasn't able to spend time with you this week. But I promise to bring home a Mickey for you. Big hug! :)

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2009-12-16T10:47:00.002+08:00

Christmas is friendship!

Christmas Dinner / Despidida at Congo Grill Tomas Morato. Jeje, we missed you!

...and being with people that make you feel cared for and special. When surrounded by true friends, it's just like having Christmas everyday!

:)

----------

Simbang Gabi started this morning. With barely two hours of sleep, my beau Alvin and I joined the rest of the BFQC community who were willing to wake up really early for the 4am mass. Alvin wanted us to catch the first four dawn masses before my flight to the US on Saturday. I love doing this tradition with him, so kahit puyat and pagod, go pa rin.

The Youth Choir sang beautifully this morning. There was a Christmas chill in the air. The church pews were all occupied by families, couples and friends. I couldn't help but feel quite sentimental. There was a strong feeling of positivity and togetherness among everyone gathered in the church this morning. I saw it as a manifestation of God's undying and unconditional love for us. After everything we've experienced this year - the recession, the calamities, the crimes, the hardships - here we were, healthy and alive and anticipating Christmas Day with joyful hearts. Because we know that despite the tragedies, God always gives us a reason to keep the faith. Families intact and hearing mass together, friends and neighbors greeting each other with smiles, couples holding hands. I remember glancing up at Alvin, and he smiled at me and planted a kiss on my forehead. The gift of love. The gift of family. God's blessings are overflowing. His presence ubiquitous.

After the mass, we had a picnic breakfast of puto bumbong and bibingka. I had a few minutes to spare before I drive to work for my 6am show, so we stood outside my house, eating with our fingers and sharing hushed laughter. It was the most perfect way to start the day. Makes you look forward to waking up super early again the next day.

Thank you, Lord, for this beautiful life. You are, indeed, so good.

:)

I am his muse...

2009-12-10T07:27:00.003+08:00

...and he never fails to make me feel like the most beautiful woman in the world. Every single day.

Photography by Alvin Carilo.

2009-12-08T15:40:00.003+08:00

Just got off the telephone after an hour of making kwento with my Tita Monette, my dad’s sister who lives in the US. We’re spending Christmas and New Year with them in the States. That’s why she has been ringing me up non-stop to remind me of the things she wants me to bring, the most important ones are magazines with Piolo Pascual’s photos. She’s in her fifties, and she’s still crushing on stars half her age.

I’m having mixed feelings about my spending the Holidays in the States. Part of me wants to stay here with my beau. We’ve been spending Christmas and New Year together for the past nine years. Walang palya yun! So we’re both feeling quite sad. It won’t be the same if we’re apart.

Another part of me is thrilled, though. We grew up with my dad’s sisters, Tita Monette and Tita Ayette, until they migrated to the US when I was in the fifth grade. So that was the last time we saw each other. I’m finally getting to see them again after 18 years! It’s exciting! Usually we just call them up during December 25 and January 1st. Now we’re actually going to be there with them to open presents or play in the snow!

For those who can’t physically be there with their families during the Holiday season, the best way to still feel their presence is to share warm conversations with them on the phone. I know many people resort to chat, YM or email to send their Yuletide greetings. But personally I believe that nothing beats hearing their voices on the telephone, hearing their laughter and cries of joy. Your PLDT Landline can give you that clear connection with your loved ones abroad. Not just during this festive Christmas season but all year round!

Now if you’re reading this from outside the Philippines, let me give you some good news. If your relatives here don’t have a PLDT landline, you can actually get them one. You can apply for a PLDT landline for your family here in the Philippines through PLDT Online. The good thing about this new feature is that you can get them a line from wherever you are, by just conveniently logging on to the PLDT website and clicking away. Plus, you get a 2$ voucher! It’ll be a really nice Christmas present for your loved ones here in the Philippines. Now they won’t have reasons anymore not to call you!

Check out PLDT Online now and surprise everyone back home with a “rrrring”!

Special thanks to the sponsors!

2009-12-08T10:01:00.009+08:00

December is the peak season for hostings and celebrations and looking fabulous! So far, the two big events I've had are the Mossimo Christmas Party, where once again I hosted with my ex-partner Rye (of U92), and Wave 891's Urban Music Awards Jump-Off Party. My beau, Alvin, was the official photographer for both events. I have yet to post his shots. Here are some photos from friends. It's always fun to have a reason to dress up oh-so-glamorously! :)

The best thing about being a radio DJ - you get all the perks for free! Whee! Special thanks to Burgundy Collection for the fab black Audrey Hepburn gown and the hot pink cocktail dress. My pearls were courtesy of Accessorize (and courtesy of my dearest friend, Tita Mags!). And of course, my hair and maekup courtesy of Essensuals Toni & Guy. My makeup artist, Steph, never fails to make me look like a queen. Lots of love to my sponsors, for making my December all glittery and glam!

Wave 891's Urban Music Awards Jump-Off Party

2009-12-03T19:20:00.003+08:00

Wave 891 is paying homage to the artists and the songs that make up the local urban music scene. The metro's most influential R&B station brings you the URBAN MUSIC AWARDS. The first of its kind in the history of Philippine radio.

The Jump-Off Party happens on December 4, 7PM at the Eastwood Central Plaza.
A gathering of all the nominees. One big party. One big venue. All leading to the biggest and most exciting event of 2010 - The Urban Music Awards Night.

The very first URBAN MUSIC AWARDS will be streamed live over PLDT MyDSL Watchpad. Wave 891 thanks its partners - PLDT MyDSL and American Rag.

It's gonna be a super fun show, so make sure you clear your calendars and party with us.

For a complete list of nominees, visit www.wave891.fm. Vote for your favorite nominee for the People's Choice Award. Text WAVE(space)891(space)UMA(space)your vote and send to 2968.

See y'all. It'll be awesome!

:)

Running on 2 and a half hours of sleep...

2009-12-03T19:05:00.002+08:00

...and still running! Tomorrow is the big day - Wave 891's Urban Music Awards Jump-Off Party. We've been working on it for weeks now. Sablay a bit in some things like the billboards that were supposed to be up since Monday. We'll have them all raised up by next year na lang to hype the UMA awards night on January 22. We're now rushing things last minute, but I'm seeing good results so I won't allow myself to be a bitch of a critic, and just use what's left of my energy to squeeze the last few drops of creative juices outta my head. I'll stay positive. We'll give you an awesome show. We always do. Sus! Lovely DJs in hot, sexy outfits pa lang, panalo na! Tee-hee!

:)

blush encore!

2009-11-11T06:49:00.003+08:00

During a meeting with one of our Big Bosses:

Big Boss: Do you already have plans of getting married, Anne?
Anne: Yes, sir. My boyfriend and I plan to get married by next year.
Big Boss: Ah, so soon?
Anne: Sir, matanda na po ako. (smiles)
Big Boss: Why? How old are you?
Anne: 30, sir.
Big Boss: Seriously?
Anne: Yes, sir.
Big Boss: Talaga? All this time I thought you were just 23 or something.
Anne: (bigger smile this time) Wow. Thank you, sir.

And this is where I blush (again). I'm mentally doing happy cartwheels. Another confirmation that I don't look old! Now the rest of my month is made.

:)

blush

2009-11-09T10:05:00.003+08:00

During the PLDT Watchpad event I hosted over the weekend, while chatting with Denise (of PLDT):

Denise: How old are you, Anne?
Anne: I'm 30.
Denise: (shocked expression) No way!
Anne: (smiles) Yeah. I'm 30.
Denise: I thought you were like 24 or something. I thought you were my age!
Anne: Wow, thank you for the compliment. Isip bata kasi eh. Hindi pa nag-mature yung utak ko. (laughs)

And that's the part where I blush. Tee-hee. Confirmation that I don't look old. That's enough to make my week.

:)

Sigh.

2009-11-04T10:54:00.004+08:00

Lately, I've been feeling the following:

- small
- insignificant
- unimportant
- lost
- restless
- weird

2009 hasn't been very good to me in terms of income, career and other small stuff. Then this morning I woke up to the realization that this year really isn't my time to shine. It's my time to be happy for other people who are having a great year. It is kinda weird to feel like this when the year is almost at an end. Maybe deep inside me I was kinda hoping that things would pick up towards the later part of '09. It hasn't. But that's okay. I get it now. This year is for me to sit back and applaud the accomplishments of other people. I may not have been given a big part in this stage play called life this year. But here's hoping that come 2010, I'm going to find my place, my piece, my purpose.

Found this on this week's PostSecret blog:

Whoever sent this, thank you! It calmed me somehow. When I'm feeling low, I'll just have to remember this message: I am part of something wonderful, God's grand plan.

:)

Take a listen!

2009-11-03T11:10:00.005+08:00

I am loving Jay-Z's eleventh #1 album, The Blueprint 3. If you haven't got a copy yet, go grab one. Hey, make sure you get only the original. Respect the artists and their music, be it local or foreign.

I have a number of favorite tracks in this album. So Ambitious (feat. Pharell), Young Forever (feat. Mr. Hudson), Already Home (feat. Kid Cudi) and Death of Autotune. And let's not forget to mention the song he shares with Alicia Keys, Empire State of Mind. Take a listen!

Way to go, Sandra Bullock!

2009-11-03T05:29:00.001+08:00

Caught this article on Female First:

Sandra Bullock says her selfish attitude is what's made her happy.
The 'Speed' actress - who is married to motocross enthusiast Jesse James - admits she has always put herself first and doesn't worry what anyone else thinks, even if they correctly advise her that her actions are wrong.
She said: "I never did anything according to what anyone else wanted. That's why I think I am happy. I do everything 100 per cent - even my stupidest missteps. I know when I'm getting ready to mess up, I'm going to do it full-on."
Sandra also revealed she always speaks her mind because she doesn't want to get taken advantage of.
She added: "I have to fight every single day to live my true life. I don't ever want to come home saying, 'I should have spoken my mind. I shouldn't have let someone say something that I didn't feel was right.' "

You go, girl! Trying to please everyone is exhausting. So why should I?

Slow down, baby.

2009-11-03T05:22:00.000+08:00

I don't know if anyone noticed how beautiful the moon was today. I stepped out of the house at 5:15 in the morning. I stopped short as soon as I saw the moon. It was incredible! According to the Lunar calendar, it was a full moon last night. But it had been raining and you couldn't appreciate its fullness. This morning, though, it was a sight to behold. Big, bright and magnificent, the moon stood out in all its glory, a bright ball of light in a sea of stars and gray clouds.

I wanted to rush back inside and grab my camera. I already spotted the perfect angle and, with my SX10's powerful zoom, I knew I'd be able to capture a good shot of the scene. But I was thinking of the time. If I stalled, I would be late for my show. So like the rest of the metro's mere mortals, I rushed to work. I was berating at my inner self for not taking the time to get just one snapshot. What are the chances of me seeing the moon in that glorious state again? It might not happen again.

It's a lesson I've learned and would like to share. People say we should stop and smell the flowers. We really must, actually. All of us lose ourselves in the nitty-gritty of everyday life. We get too busy to stop for a while and look around and appreciate the beauty of the world around us. Have you ever realized that for most of us, it takes a lot - expensive, shiny, hi-tech material things - to take our breaths away? It's a sad thing. We forget to appreciate the wonders of the elements, the air we breathe, the blue skies in the morning, the bed of stars that covers us at night. I can imagine God feeling very disappointed at us for our complete disregard of this wondrous gift He has given us - our world.

Aside from this, we have become too busy to count our blessing. When was the last time you sat back to reflect on what you have? There are so many things to be thankful for! There really isn't any time to be depressed about things we don't have, if you think about it. That's probably what God wants us to know, when the moon is bright and full, when you wake up to merry chirping of birds outside your window, when you chance upon the marvel of a shooting star or the beauty of a rainbow. Life isn't always about contracts and business meetings, making money, getting ahead, moving forward, climbing corporate ladders, working like crazy. Life is also about taking slow steps, breathing deeply, sand between your toes, basking in sunshine or watching the sunset, picking flowers along the road, laughing 'til you cry, running with arms outstretched and the wind blowing through your hair, staring quietly at the full moon. Most importantly, life is about listening to God, catching His messages and finding him in everything and everyone. When our days have become mazes and whirlwinds and rat races, what can save us are the moments where we stop and smell the flowers.

Surely there is something in the unruffled calm of nature that overawes our little anxieties and doubts; the sight of the deep-blue sky and the clustering stars above seems to impart a quiet to the mind.
- Jonathan Edwards

Why I love my job?

2009-11-02T09:33:00.000+08:00

Because we always have an awesome time!

Wave 891 jocks Janice, Jason and Anne at Dolce Super Club. Celebrating The Black Party - Wave's Halloween event for '09.

:)

Let's talk about sex!

2009-10-30T14:40:00.002+08:00

I was browsing through a college textbook on Ethics. As I read the Marriage section, I chanced upon this line: "Although much focus is being put on sex, sex is not that important in a happy marriage."

My initial reaction was the same as my beau Alvin's when he read it, a resounding WTF!?! Whoever wrote this book was probably a virgin, or wasn't getting any. Hence the need to justify the lack of sex in that author's life.

How can you even think that the act of lovemaking is not an important aspect in a relationship? Sex IS important. I read somewhere that it helps strengthen the bond between partners. When a man reaches an orgasm, his body produces a hormone of some sort that makes him feel more bonded to his partner. Isn't that a good thing?

In order to prove this incredulous textbook author wrong, I did some research and gathered a few facts that will show that sex is important. We're not just talking about marriage here, but also the overall health of an individual.

From health.discovery.com:

"A good sex life is an important part of an individual's overall health," says Mark Schoen, Ph.D., director of sex education for the Sinclair Intimacy Institute. "People who have a good sex life feel better [mentally and physically]."

Sexual activity is 25 percent to 300 percent greater for married couples versus the non-married, depending on age. The 1998 University of Chicago report that compiled available sex research also concluded that intercourse is more frequent among couples in happier marriages.

Strategies for Keeping the Spark Alive

* Treat your partner as if you're dating
* Romance your spouse outside the bedroom
* Plan a date night
* Talk with your partner
* Listen to your partner
* Understand your partner's sexual needs and desires
* Keep physically fit and attractive for your partner
* Maintain perspective on sex as life ebbs and flows
* Resolve any underlying conflicts as they will spillover to the bedroom
* Have fun and engage in foreplay, whether that's kissing, sexual banter or anything else
* Be adventurous and creative in and outside the bedroom
* Exercise, preferably together
* Stop smoking and get your partner to quit
* Watch your weight and cholesterol
* Consider seeking specialized treatment from a specialist if behavioral changes don't work

My thoughts on this: If sex weren't important in a relationship, why would researchers and doctors come up with strategies to keep the spark alive? They wouldn't even bother, nor care if your sex life died.

From www.everything.com:

The Importance of Sex in a Happy Marriage

Within a marriage no other aspect of your lives together is as sacred as your sexual expression. If sexual relations diminish or disappear in a marriage, without an understanding and mutual agreement among the spouses, this is a major danger sign for the marriage.

Within your sexual relationship there is emotional healing to be found for both of you. Healthy sexual expression heals, restores, and energizes. The healing comes when the two of you permit each other to become the most vulnerable and emotionally expressive that each can be. Loving sexual expression is the place where you come together in joy, pleasure, gratitude, humor, and dancing bodies. The smart couple does not allow this sacred space to be assaulted. The partners in a healthy marriage protect this place above all because of its power and healing quality. Sexuality is the glue that holds the couple together when you would prefer to just walk away. Once sexuality is disturbed, emotional healing must occur if the marriage is to continue in an intimate manner.

From www.ivillage.com, Michelle Weiner-Davis, MSW:

Sex is very important to a marriage. Just ask the one out of every three spouses who's in a marriage where there's a sexual desire gap. That is, one spouse is desperately unhappy because this person isn't having sex nearly as often as he or she would like, and the other wonders, "What's the big deal? It's just sex." But for the spouse yearning for more touch, it is a big deal. Sex isn't just a physical release, it's about feeling wanted, connected and loved.

When this sort of misunderstanding occurs, intimacy on all levels fades. Couples stop spending time together, snuggling on the couch, engaging in meaningful conversation, laughing at each other's jokes. Friendship is replaced by resentment, hostility and a painful distancing. This puts marriages at risk of infidelity and/or divorce. But the good news is that regardless of the reasons for a sexual meltdown ‑- whether it's due to biological, personal or relationship issues ‑- excellent help is available. Anyone wanting a more robust and passionate love life can have it.

From www.ivillage.com, Dr. Ruth:

I think sex is the glue that holds a relationship together. If one or both partners is sexually frustrated, that's likely to wreak havoc on the relationship, often in ways that the couple doesn't even realize. They may be snapping at each other over other matters when the real conflict stems from problems in the sexual arena. The more discord there is in a relationship, the less likely it is that the couple is going to want to have sex. This in turn establishes a vicious cycle that causes not only the couple's sex life, but also the relationship, to spiral downward.

Another pitfall of an asexual relationship is that all physical contact can eventually cease. Hugs and kisses aren't a substitute for sex, but such physical contact is also a necessary component of a healthy relationship. If two people are acting like roommates, then after a while their reasons for staying together become increasingly questionable. For these reasons, it's vital for couples of any age to be proactive and to keep the fires of passion burning. If their sexual fires become completely extinguished, slowly but surely their relationship will die out too.

Don't get me wrong. Sex isn't the only important thing to consider for a marriage or relationship to work. There are other things like love, understanding, acceptance, support, faith in each other, compromise, etc. But for you to take out sex from the list of important factors that contribute to a happy and satisfying bond is absolutely absurd. To teach this to college students makes it even worse. There are wonders brought about by sex and intimacy. I think it's sad for a person (especially one in a relationship) not to realize this universal truth. Sex that is willingly shared by two people who love each other is magical, it strengthens the bond, it makes your smiles for each other sweeter, your hugs tighter, your laughter more frequent, your outlook more positive, your patience and understanding longer, and generally, your marriage life (or relationship, for those who are not married) better.

Now for those who are still dwelling in caves and think sex is taboo, here's something that might change your mind about it.

From www.webmd.com:

10 Surprising Health Benefits of Sex

When you're in the mood, it's a sure bet that the last thing on your mind is boosting your immune system or maintaining a healthy weight. Yet good sex offers those health benefits and more.

That's a surprise to many people, says Joy Davidson, PhD, a New York psychologist and sex therapist. "Of course, sex is everywhere in the media," she says. "But the idea that we are vital, sexual creatures is still looked at in some cases with disgust or in other cases a bit of embarrassment. So to really take a look at how our sexuality adds to our life and enhances our life and our health, both physical and psychological, is eye-opening for many people."

Sex does a body good in a number of ways, according to Davidson and other experts. The benefits aren't just anecdotal or hearsay -- each of these 10 health benefits of sex is backed by scientific scrutiny.

Among the benefits of healthy loving in a relationship:

1. Sex Relieves Stress

A big health benefit of sex is lower blood pressure and overall stress reduction, according to researchers from Scotland who reported their findings in the journal Biological Psychology. They studied 24 women and 22 men who kept records of their sexual activity. Then the researchers subjected them to stressful situations -- such as speaking in public and doing verbal arithmetic -- and noted their blood pressure response to stress.

Those who had intercourse had better responses to stress than those who engaged in other sexual behaviors or abstained.

Another study published in the same journal found that frequent intercourse was associated with lower diastolic blood pressure in cohabiting participants. Yet other research found a link between partner hugs and lower blood pressure in women.

2. Sex Boosts Immunity

Good sexual health may mean better physical health. Having sex once or twice a week has been linked with higher levels of an antibody called immunoglobulin A or IgA, which can protect you from getting colds and other infections. Scientists at Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., took samples of saliva, which contain IgA, from 112 college students who reported the frequency of sex they had.

Those in the "frequent" group -- once or twice a week -- had higher levels of IgA than those in the other three groups -- who reported being abstinent, having sex less than once a week, or having it very often, three or more times weekly.

3. Sex Burns Calories

Thirty minutes of sex burns 85 calories or more. It may not sound like much, but it adds up: 42 half-hour sessions will burn 3,570 calories, more than enough to lose a pound. Doubling up, you could drop that pound in 21 hour-long sessions.

"Sex is a great mode of exercise," says Patti Britton, PhD, a Los Angeles sexologist and president of the American Association of Sexuality Educators and Therapists. It takes work, from both a physical and psychological perspective, to do it well, she says.

4. Sex Improves Cardiovascular Health

While some older folks may worry that the efforts expended during sex could cause a stroke, that's not so, according to researchers from England. In a study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, scientists found frequency of sex was not associated with stroke in the 914 men they followed for 20 years.

And the heart health benefits of sex don't end there. The researchers also found that having sex twice or more a week reduced the risk of fatal heart attack by half for the men, compared with those who had sex less than once a month.

5. Sex Boosts Self-Esteem

Boosting self-esteem was one of 237 reasons people have sex, collected by University of Texas researchers and published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior.

That finding makes sense to Gina Ogden, PhD, a sex therapist and marriage and family therapist in Cambridge, Mass., although she finds that those who already have self-esteem say they sometimes have sex to feel even better. "One of the reasons people say they have sex is to feel good about themselves," she tells WebMD. "Great sex begins with self-esteem, and it raises it. If the sex is loving, connected, and what you want, it raises it."

6. Sex Improves Intimacy

Having sex and orgasms increases levels of the hormone oxytocin, the so-called love hormone, which helps us bond and build trust. Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh and the University of North Carolina evaluated 59 premenopausal women before and after warm contact with their husbands and partners ending with hugs. They found that the more contact, the higher the oxytocin levels.

"Oxytocin allows us to feel the urge to nurture and to bond," Britton says.

Higher oxytocin has also been linked with a feeling of generosity. So if you're feeling suddenly more generous toward your partner than usual, credit the love hormone.

7. Sex Reduces Pain

As the hormone oxytocin surges, endorphins increase, and pain declines. So if your headache, arthritis pain, or PMS symptoms seem to improve after sex, you can thank those higher oxytocin levels.

In a study published in the Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, 48 volunteers who inhaled oxytocin vapor and then had their fingers pricked lowered their pain threshold by more than half.

8. Sex Reduces Prostate Cancer Risk

Frequent ejaculations, especially in 20-something men, may reduce the risk of prostate cancer later in life, Australian researchers reported in the British Journal of Urology International. When they followed men diagnosed with prostate cancer and those without, they found no association of prostate cancer with the number of sexual partners as the men reached their 30s, 40s, and 50s.

But they found men who had five or more ejaculations weekly while in their 20s reduced their risk of getting prostate cancer later by a third.

Another study, reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that frequent ejaculations, 21 or more a month, were linked to lower prostate cancer risk in older men, as well, compared with less frequent ejaculations of four to seven monthly.

9. Sex Strengthens Pelvic Floor Muscles

For women, doing a few pelvic floor muscle exercises known as Kegels during sex offers a couple of benefits. You will enjoy more pleasure, and you'll also strengthen the area and help to minimize the risk of incontinence later in life.

To do a basic Kegel exercise, tighten the muscles of your pelvic floor, as if you're trying to stop the flow of urine. Count to three, then release.

10. Sex Helps You Sleep Better

The oxytocin released during orgasm also promotes sleep, according to research.

And getting enough sleep has been linked with a host of other good things, such as maintaining a healthy weight and blood pressure. Something to think about, especially if you've been wondering why your guy can be active one minute and snoring the next.

See where I'm getting at? Sex is an amazing thing. And a good, healthy sex life definitely makes a difference among couples in a relationship or marriage. So lights off, drapes down, lock the doors and unplug the phone. Let the lovemaking begin! Here's to a great sex life and a happier, healthier you! Cheers!

:)

P.S.

My doctor-friend, Doc Harry, advises not to go beyond 3x a week though. Too much sex can take its toll on your health. The immune system weakens is one thing I remember about this topic. You can catch Doc H on Wave 891's The Breakfast Duo with Anne and Jada, Mondays and Wednesdays at 8AM.

Quoting Jay-Z:

2009-10-27T10:05:00.001+08:00

The motivation for me is them telling me what I could not be.

- So Ambitious, The Blueprint 3

Thank You!

2009-10-20T14:43:00.001+08:00

October 20 is officially National Thank You Day here in the Philippines. This morning, people from Toblerone-Kraft visited our station to let us know about this very special yet still not so popular holiday. They brought Jada and I bars and bars of Toblerone and a Goldilocks Toblerone Cake. In return, we thanked them on air!

And before this National Thank You Day ends, let me just express my sincerest gratitude to my family, my hubby, my friends, and all those who are or have been a part of my life. Life is wonderful when you're surrounded with people who love and care for you, sincerely.

Here I sing a line from Dido: And I want to thank you for giving me the best day of my life.

Your turn to say "thank you!" Go ahead, spread the love!

:)

Miggy's is Love!

2009-10-19T04:21:00.002+08:00

We were in Parañaque the other day to attend the burial of my beau's lola. RIP, Lola Letty.

On the lighter side of things, we discovered that there was a Miggy's Taco Bar way over that side of the south! Syempre na-excite ako. There used to be a Miggy's branch in BFQC. Doon kami unang nag-date ni Vin! Nagkakahiyaan pa kami kumain noon kasi bago pa lang kami. Every time we took a bite of food, we looked away. Harhar! Anyway, for some reason, all the Miggy's branches we knew of closed shop. We thought wala na sa buong Philippines but lo and behold! There's one lone (and probably the original) Miggy's in BF Parañaque. Winner! So we all had dinner there - me and my man, mom-in-law Tita Vee, and Tito Rey. Imagine the utmost delight that coursed through me soon as my teeth sank into the uberly delicious tacos, cheese flautas and chicken quesadillas! There is absolutely nothing like Miggy's.

Too bad I didn't bring my camera that day so I wasn't able to take photos. Sayang! But my beau and I will definitely go on a road trip just for that. Now we have two places on our dayuhin-para-lang-kumain list: Miggy's in Parañaque and that awesome resto in Pampanga! Wheee!

:)

M-150 Unleashed!

2009-10-14T11:10:00.001+08:00

When going to the gym becomes an absolute chore (and believe me, it does), it helps to boost your energy with a bottle of M-150. This morning I did just that. I had a resolve to exercise 5 days straight this week, after loading up on carbs during the weekend. So when I woke up this morning without the usual stamina, I gave myself a push with M-150. Thanks to their product manager, Anne Bernardo, for the stash of these great-tasting energy drinks in my office. My radio show partner, Jada, and I guested her on our show last month to promote the event they were launching.

This event was the M-150 Unleashed Northern Adventure Race that I wanted to join myself. I talked about this on a previous blog entry. Incidentally, Wave 891 was the official radio partner of this race. I wasn't able to register, but my co-djs and Turbo Time hosts Lindy Magnaye and Mike Potenciano were able to join. Luck them! Long drives excite me, and I found the idea of driving from Manila to Baguio to Subic absolutely thrilling! But I couldn't go so I had to settle for live updates over Wave 891 and race results posted on www.m150.com.ph.

For those not in the know, the M-150 Unleashed Northern Adventure Race was perhaps the most exciting motoring event of 2009. It was a strategic race with checkpoints, which you needed to finish in the least time and within the limits of the law. The pit stops were situated in Manila, Baguio, San Fernando, La Union, Dagupan and Subic.

The race happened last September 19. Around 50 teams participated in the event. I remember that particular Saturday started with bright sunshine until early afternoon then it started pouring like crazy until evening. I was following the race updates on the M-150 website. The rain was beating down so hard that afternoon that the teams could hardly see the roads. But the weather did not stop them from getting to their destination. A team or two ran out of gas during the race. And an empty gas tank wasn't the only obstacle. Some teams were already running on empty stomachs later in the day and couldn't wait to get to the finish line. It was an awfully long drive but M-150 kept their energies running steady.

The big race was capped with an equally grand party in Subic. I'm sure the happiest faces that night belonged to the winners. Team Dorifto and Team Gateau de Manille placed 2nd and 3rd, respectively. The team that bagged the 50K grand prize and bragging rights as the Champs was Team DKC, made up of Arnel Carlos and Nino Sarte. I don't know them but congratulations to you, guys. You can guest on my show anytime. :)

It was one helluva road trip! I bet it was tiring but super fun! Too bad I missed it. But I remember their product manager telling me that M-150 might plan another race after this. Now I have got to join that! Also, since Jada and I are such running fanatics, we suggested a marathon for the next M-150 event. It would be perfect because M-150 is a fantastic energy drink that helps fuel up runners and people who are constantly active. (Speaking from experience.) I'd definitely sign up for that!

You can check out the M-150 website for more updates and photos. I took the liberty of borrowing a few snapshots from the site to post here.

Congratulations to M-150 for a very successful event. We'll be geared up for the next race!

Thinking out loud...

2009-10-09T09:27:00.002+08:00

In a newspaper article the other day, I read about a young girl who asked her teacher, "Nasaan si Bro?" Her family was one of the many victims of the Ondoy calamity. Where was "Bro" during the time heavy rains tore through the skies and floodwaters rose to heaven in a matter of minutes?

My buddy and radio show partner, Jada, and I discussed this over breakfast. This was one of the reasons why she does not let her daughter watch certain television shows. I personally think it's quite misleading. It's not right to show God in such fashion where he responds to every beck and call of a child. Adults know that not all prayers are answered. But this is not to put God in a negative light. Not all requests are granted because God has something better planned for you. Or at least that's what our faith / religion teaches. So when a child is so used to seeing a Higher Being constantly answering a tv character's prayers no matter how trivial, he's convinced that Heaven works exactly that way. When Ondoy came beating on their rooftops, the little girl called on "Bro" to save them, or their house probably. But apparently, He was nowhere to be found. Hence the query.

In so many ways, God was present during this ordeal. Many families were saved from the wrath of the typhoon. Villages may have submerged completely in floodwater, but many were able to climb up or swim to safety. This is already a miraculous manifestation of His love. However, many also drowned and died. And although it may seem that He did not answer the prayers and pleas of help that came from those who died, we know that God has His reasons. We know that the Lord is in full control.

I believe that when God says no to a certain request (and believe me, little girl, "Bro" does say no to prayers once in a while), He is trying to teach you something. He wants you to understand something. Or He has a grand plan, something better than what you are asking for. It doesn't mean that He has forsaken you. God will never forsake us. He just has something different in mind for you. And like the saying "Mom knows best," God knows what is ultimately good for you.

This is what we should teach our children. First, always pray to God. But He doesn't always answer your prayers. Why not? Because sometimes what you ask for is not as magnificent as what He has in store for you. If only He could reveal in an instant all the wonderful things, all the beautiful plans he has for each of His children. But where's the fun in that? And how will you learn? Everything is given, revealed, and will unfold in His most perfect timing. That's His promise.

----------

Now that we're already talking about God, let me just share my thoughts on Dan Brown's new novel, The Lost Symbol. I personally love Dan Brown. I have read all his books, from Da Vinci Code to Deception Point. I guess I'm more of a mystery-conspiracy theories-scientific discoveries kind of girl rather that a chick-lit-chick.

The plot revolves around the search for a symbol, a hidden word, that will open the portals to an Ancient Secret or some Great Truth that, if revealed, will change the whole world as we know it. It's unwise to believe things that occur in fictional works, but one Noetic Science discovery is something I do believe in. Our thoughts have mass. And our thoughts are able to will something to happen. This has been told to us in many self-help books. The power of positive thinking. Setting your mind on something you want, and the universe will conspire. Mind over matter. The Secret. It's fascinating, and believable. The mind truly is powerful.

Our faith teaches us that if two or more are gathered together in prayer, then God hears them and heeds their call. Their prayers are answered. I truly believe that this is because the strength of many thoughts united in one goal, many minds working together in one direction, produce a force so strong that it wills what we are asking for to happen. I can't really describe it in a very good way. But if you read the book, you'll get what I mean. This may also explain why typhoon Pepeng changed its original course and skipped the places that were already badly hit by Ondoy. Yes, God worked a miracle. And also because so many Filipino people were united in prayer. We willed the typhoon not to hit us. We created our own reality. It's amazing what the mind can do.

Well, basically, that's just a small part of the whole story. It just got the wheels in my head turning. I recommend The Lost Symbol if you're hunting for an exciting read.

On change...

2009-10-03T08:17:00.000+08:00

The month of September brought about a lot of changes. Some fast and abrupt. Some slowly brewing. Sometimes change brings about fear, disturbing the peace. At one point, I found myself troubled by all the changes. I wanted things to stay the same. My safety zone was a good world to be in.

But after a lot of thinking, I said to myself that maybe the best thing to do is embrace the changes that life throws at me. Instead of going against the tide, maybe one should follow where the new current leads. Change is inevitable. New shouldn't be feared. Like a typhoon that rampages, then leaves the plain with cleaner air.

A lot of things have changed. Even until now, I'm watching some things slowly transforming, or disappearing. Things we've gotten used to. Old things I thought were permanent. Truth is, nothing is permanent but change.

And I say to life, bring it on! I shall embrace these changes and hope that all these would bring about new learnings and better experiences. It's time to step out of my comfort zone. Welcome all that's new. New thoughts. New ways. New roads. Shake hands with new people and look at new faces. Build new ties. Hop on a new bus.

Time asks no questions, it goes on without you,
leaving you behind if you can't stand the pace.
The world keeps on spinning,
you can't stop it, if you try to...

- You Gotta Be, Des'ree.

In the midst of these changes, I am thankful for the few precious things that remain steady, steadfast and permanent. To this I sing a line from the famous Beach Boys song: God only knows what I'd be without you.

Sending out an SOS!

2009-10-01T06:38:00.000+08:00

If you wanna help by donating or volunteering or both, here are the places you can go to. I'm reposting helpful info from RJ Ledesma's FB page. Media people, let's do our jobs and spread the word!

- MEGATENT along Meralco Ave. beside Renaissance Towers in front of Alexandria. They need goods and volunteers to help in packing and distributing. If you can lend them pushcarts / trolleys, that would be very much appreciated.

- ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya
* 13 Examiner, West Triangle QC
* Scout Bayoran, near Rembrandt Hotel and in front of Alex III

- Wave 891 / Jam 88.3
2nd Floor, Strata 2000 Bldg, Emerald Ave. Ortigas Center, Pasig

- HABITAT FOR HUMANITY will be holding a mini soup kitchen in two Pasig evacuation centers. They are in need of volunteers to help distribute the arroz caldo they'll be preparing. Sched is Oct. 2-4, 6am to 2pm. For info, call or text 8973069 or 09178260881.

- All 7-Eleven stores

- All Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf branches

- Fitness First Clubs (except Eastwood and Metro East)

- WHITE SPACE, 2314 Chino Roces Ave., Pasong Tamo Ext.Makati

- UP MOUNTAINEERS targeting areas that haven't been reached yet by the government and media. Send donations to Power Up Tandang Sora or call 0926-7234914

- ANGEL BRIGADE CENTER at The Fort, across Pacific Plaza Towers. In need of donations and volunteers.

- Donate BLOOD to the Red Cross and help save lives of Ondoy victims in need. Call 143 for details.

- Send donations to the Red Cross through SMS. Text RED (amount) to 2899 (Globe) or 4483 (Smart). You can donate 25, 50, 100 or 300 pesos.

Tune in to my show, The Breakfast Duo with Anne and Jada on Wave 891, 6-9AM, for more updates and helpful info.

Happy to help!

:)

A Saturday to remember...

2009-09-27T10:09:00.002+08:00

It was a normal-looking rainy Saturday morning when I woke up early for my French class. I figured there was a storm but I never thought it would turn out to be one of the most unforgettable experiences I would have in my thirty years of existence.

Almost the entire French 5 class braved the heavy rains and went to UP Diliman that morning. We could barely hear our teacher Cinddi's voice because of the angry pouring outside. A few minutes before noon, my Dad already called me up and told me not to go home yet. Our street was flooded, and even my big SUV wouldn't be able to make it through. Water already made its way inside the vehicles of my brother and sisters. That has never happened in all the eighteen years that we've lived in BFQC.

My brother's XTrail and my old car, Sweet Cheeks, now Adie's. Plus my other old car, the Getz, now Andrea's. All three took a swim.

My friends couldn't go home just yet, as news of Katipunan being flooded already were sent by their families through text messages. So we all trooped to Bahay ng Alumni to have lunch at Chocolate Kiss, with high hopes that somehow the rains would stop and we could get home after a few hours. But the few hours stretched on until 10:30PM. We were stranded big time. My beau, Alvin, tried to make his way home after work. To no avail. He ended up joining me at Bahay ng Alumni.

We sat on hard wooden benches, telling stories and playing games. The laughter eased a bit of the panic and frustration we were all feeling. Alvin was beside me all the time, and that gave me a sense of calmness. We were like refugees huddled together in a dimly lit corner, sharing rations of crackers, cheese and bananas that my classmates managed to buy at the UP Coop. When night time fell, the mosquitoes swarmed in. Cellphone batteries were slowly starting to drain. The rain quieted down by 8pm. After two hours, Shiela's husband came to fetch her. Alvin and I were ready to go home. I offered the others a place to stay. Our home was spared from floods and power outage, so it was the best place for them to spend the night. After spending ten hours at Bahay ng Alumni, it was such a relief to come home to family, warmth, comfort and food!

Taken at 10PM. UP Bahay ng Alumni. Anne, Alvin, Cinddi, Rocky, Connie, Edna, Ian, Liezl, Shiela and Dan - All smiling despite the experience.

But I know that our experience is nothing compared to the suffering that so many people have gone through. I was already getting updates on Twitter about the floods, people getting trapped and stranded, Provident Village residents on rooftops. Cars and houses being swept away. Villages completely submerging in water. It was terrible! I couldn't help but whisper grateful prayers to God. Yes, we were stranded for ten hours. But we were kept safe and dry. We were lucky.

Typhoon Ondoy brought about disaster, destruction, and so much loss. They say it is the worst rainfall in Philippine history. It is even more disastrous than the Hurricane Katrina that hit the United States in 2005.

Lifted from Inquirer.net:

"The 15th weather disturbance that hit the Philippines in 2009 dumped a total of 455 millimeters of rain in Quezon City alone in 24 hours, compared to the 250 millimeters of rain that Hurricane Katrina brought to New Orleans in Louisiana in the United States in 2005."

photo courtesy of www.boston.com

As of 8:30AM today, the death toll has risen to 83. 300,000 people displaced by the typhoon. Many areas are still flooded. Many families are still not rescued. Many are still missing. 95 million pesos worth of crops in Calabarzon were destroyed. Although the nation is in a mourning state, it is heartening to see everyone uniting with but one goal: to help. Donations of cash and relief goods are continuously pouring in. People here and there are volunteering to help in any way possible. Even Filipinos abroad are sending their support from different places across the globe. It's a marvelous thing to watch. A clear sign that the bayanihan spirit is not dead, and will never cease to exist.

Weather reports say that another storm is brewing two to three days away. I say we beat Nature with Prayer. The force of a whole country in prayer is far stronger than any force of nature. Our God is a merciful God. Never will He forsake us.

My heart goes out to those who have lost so much in this terrible calamity. Prayers promised. My family continues to donate relief goods to different rescue teams and organizations. Let's all help. There is a relief operation center near you. Give what you can.

During trying times like these, there is one line from the Bible that holds true: GOD WILL MAKE A WAY WHEN THERE SEEMS TO BE NO WAY.

September updates...

2009-09-24T12:47:00.001+08:00

I think many of you would agree that one of the most unpleasant of life's experiences is those trips to the dentist. I just came to visit mine. In all fairness, Doc Trina is such a lovely lady who's always smiling and treats you warmly like an old friend. So it lessens the dread of the whole open-your-mouth-wide ordeal.

So I had teeth cleaning. I was so proud of myself when Doc Trina told me that my teeth and gums are A-okay! No need for fillings or root canals. Thank you, God!

Now, I'm smiling with confidence!

:)

----------

I can't believe you're saying goodbye, partna! Rye has been my radio partner for the past, what, four years? Until we were placed on opposite ends of the day this year. I remember our last boardwork as Wave 891's Drive & Grind duo. I cried on air! (Sorry, couldn't help it.) Now my long-time partner is leaving for good. It's sad, really. But I'm happy for him. There are so many wonderful opportunities coming his way, he simply can't let them pass. Good luck, partna! It's been such a pleasure working with you!

----------

Dear Bespren,

30 ka na din! But it doesn't really make any difference. Our ages are but numbers. We don't feel old at all, right? And damn, we're even hotter than we were when we were younger! Look at how the men in our lives go gaga over us! :)

But seriously, I wish you a birthday that's not only happy but joyful. I wish you lots of love, peace of mind and heart, good health, beautiful experiences, success and plenty of money! You've been through a lot in the past year, and look where you are now - in a better, happier place, where you're loved and free and most importantly, stronger. I pray that this is now the end of all the heartaches and troubles, ad the beginning of your journey to a truly beautiful life. I'll be here with you every step of the way, through good and shitty times, you know that.

Happy birthday and God bless you, Len. Love you! Dampa when you get back!

Going crazy over...

2009-09-15T23:13:00.000+08:00

...the classic white shirt.

Crisp, clean, timeless. Paired with my fave denim shorts. Flats on a regular day. Wedges when I'm feeling extra confident about my legs. Boots when I want to stand out.

Every girl must have one. Or in my case, five. Like shoes, you can never have enough.

:)

For Alvin...

2009-09-04T17:44:00.000+08:00

whenever you hold my hand,
i know that i'm safe from harm,
i know my heart is home,
i know i'm where i should be in this world,
i know i'm yours.

whenever you hold my hand,
i know it's true
that true love does withstand
every test, every trial,
true love braves every storm,
true love lives for all time.

whenever you hold my hand,
i see the future so clear,
no more worries or fear,
i see days always leading to good tomorrows,
i see me and you.

whenever you hold my hand,
i know for sure,
to hell with what others think or say,
love escapes them anyway,
i know this is more real than they,
i know this love is for always.

this is love,
this is home,
this is us.
i know.
your hand holding mine tells me so.

happy birthday, love.
090909

Love is...

2009-09-03T04:24:00.000+08:00

...me and him.

"The best part of the day is waking up and finding you there."
Likewise, love.

:)

Shoes schmooze!

2009-08-29T22:12:00.000+08:00

Found this entry on this Sunday's Post Secret blog...

I can totally relate, actually. I'm a sucker for shoes. Right now, I have about fifty pairs of different kinds of shoes, sandals, flats and slippers. The shoe drawers my dad had made especially for all my footwear are now crammed and everything that can't fit into them anymore are lined in neat rows under my dresser. I don't really wear all of them. Some I don't even like anymore. It's just nice to look at.

My recent purchase are these leather boots from Aldo. Props to me for not buying them on impulse when I was at the Megamall branch. It took me a week to decide whether to get them or not. They were very expensive, and I wanted to be really sure I wanted the pair before I shell out the big dough. Now, they're all mine and I absolutely love, love, love 'em! Plus with all the raves I've been getting, I'm convinced it's worth every peso!

:)

anne

Meet Aria!

Brekkie!

:(

Look!

Sundays are LOVE!

Surreal.

Happy 2012!

Dear Jo,

I'm really just a girl...

Crazy!

Musings...

Long overdue!

When all else fails...

A decade on radio!

Beauty and the Beach!

HBD, Me! :)

Crush Blush!

Love you!

Thank you!

Bon appetit!

Did ya know...

Love!

Doing nothing...

Nail Spa Lounge by Ellabell

Learning the Art of Makeup!

A trip down memory lane...

Updates...

That's me!

Counting the days...

Watch this!

Here's hoping...

What I've learned so far...

Becoming Mrs. Carilo

Bridal Shower Surprise!

Updates...

Wishful thinking...

Toink!

Copycat!

Bonus!

Excited!

A little loyalty and respect, please?

Crazy for HP!

6pax!

Blondes don't have more fun...

Wave 891 rules!

Daddy's Little Girl

Dear old house...

My wedding blog!

En route to forever...

A lesson learned...

Ayos!

Here comes the Bride!

Updates..

LOL!

To my Carl...

Reality bites.

I did it!

Hells wedding bells!

My 31st Mad Hatter Birthday Lunch

Wave 891 is turning 9!

Love is all you need.

He amazes me...

Yes!

Bora Bora!

Bonjour, 2010!

Hello, San Fo!

White Christmas

Awesome Disneyland!

Dear Pam..

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

I am his muse...

Special thanks to the sponsors!

Wave 891's Urban Music Awards Jump-Off Party

Running on 2 and a half hours of sleep...

*blush* encore!

*blush*

Sigh.

Take a listen!

Way to go, Sandra Bullock!

blush encore!

blush