The Beach Life

Philippines : Boracay
Summer 2016

Feeling the islander vibe in Boracay at sunset
(Feb-2016)

Journal Entry... At February's tail end, hubby told me to pack my bags, board a plane, and head down south to the island of Boracay. I never traveled alone but... In the Philippines, one can head to the beach any time-- it is made up of 7,100 islands as of last count surrounded by the ocean. in the Philippines, the "Four Seasons" do not apply. Everyday is summer, all hot and humid 365 days of the year. 

Back in the City of Pines

Philippines : Baguio

Summer 2012

What's left of the pine trees at John Hay in Baguio
(Jul-2012)

Journal Entry... I asked myself when was the last time I went to Baguio-- the summer capital of the Philippines dubbed as the "City of Pines". It has been sixteen long years ago... In 1996, I would make a monthly pilgrimage to the Our Lady of Manoaog, as I awaited the results of the Bar Exams I took that year. One time, I made a side trip up Baguio. Travel time to Baguio was a little over an hour away, from that La Union junction. I did miss Camp John Hay's spaghetti bolognese already. 

A Beach Haven

Philippines : Boracay

2010

On Boracay shores
(Dec-2010)

Journal Entry... I am not what you call a beach baby. I shy away from the sun whenever possible. When someone says, "Let's go to the beach," I'll surely shake my head back at you. Going to the beach means sun exposure; add the salty water; top it off with tropical humidity. This peculiar mindset from living in a tropical country all my life. 

Sunset of Manila Bay

Philippines : Manila
2009

Manila Bay sunset scene, in Manila
(Feb-2009)

Journal Entry... How often did I take Manila for granted? How often did I hop on that available flight to get as far away from the hot and humid, and bustling metropolis? 

The Holidays

Philippines : Manila
2008

Festive lights around the Christmas tree
(Dec-2008)

Journal Entry... Not all that glitters is gold. It can be those string lights circling the festive tree in the living room ushering in the holidays, once more. It's the season for gift-giving, and spreading holiday cheer, to family & friends around the globe.