Family Event/Holiday/Special Events
New year countdown to 2014, Eastwood Mall Open Park
December 31, 2013, Thousands of spectators waiting for the fireworks show, waving white and purple balloons to celebrate the New Year 2014. Of course, I was one of the crowd to witness how the year ends. We are again facing new challenges and if we know how to handle it the right way,it would be without difficulties. I just hope 2014 is a good year for all of us. ”Happy New Year Everyone!
December 31, 2013, New Year Countdown to 2014 at Eastwood City
People in the Philippines set-off fireworks to mark the end of the year and to welcome the new start. The noisier, the merrier it is. Night sky was alive with the crackling noises of whistles, honking of car horns, ringing of bells, flashing of cellphone lights is done traditionally every year to drive away evil spirits.
Crowd gathered at Eastwood to witness the 2014 countdown. It was a midnight noise to wake up everyone and be merry for the New year 2014. Tourists from all over the world came to celebrate and witness how the year ends. American Idol Jessica Sanchez is back in the city to perform and lead the New year countdown to 2014 with other local performers; Bamboo, Mitoy to name a few. Fireworks display draws thousands of people from different nationalities; Koreans,Indians, Turkish and many more. I was there to document the whole event. With the loud sounds and noises, I’m sure no bad spirit will stay alive, only good would be left around.
Here’s some shots taken during the countdown to 2014
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Lots of people taking pictures of the delightful and sparkling fireworks display that filled the night sky.
Beautiful hands upward! Full of people taking pictures.
Flying balloons! Clusters of white balloons set off above the sky.
Fireworks showering to brighten the night sky.
It’s year 2015 now and again, looking forward to another loud noises soon to end the existing year. ”Happy New Year Everyone!
May this year brings all the best in life; good health, success and prosperity. Once again, ”Wishing you and your family a ” Bright and Prosperous New Year to all!
What a glorious night! We arrived home late last night. Me and my sister visited Meralco compound to check what’s new for this year 2013. Everything was totally the same as last years presentation, only half of the compound was lighted, the only ones present; Giant Christmas tree, the Chapel, Native houses, 3 Wise kings, Tsu-tsu train, Holy family (Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus) to name a few. That means, I can only document what was there at present. I realized, I feel comfortable to capture what was there, not too many people around unlike during Christmas eve, it was jam-packed with people. According to the guard, they will light everything this Christmas eve. Oh! I would be missing half of it. I need to come back again in days time until completion is done.
My 3rd year to witness and follow the annual parade, Paskotitap Christmas Lights and Sounds Float Parade last Sunday at the same venue, in front of SM Hypermarket. From here, parading all the way going Pasig City Hall for the dance competition. I missed these part, I was already tired after photographing all the floats. The entire venue filled with too many people and overcrowded. I can’t control the flow of crowd to move a little bit. They took time appreciating every float.
Just like the past years 2011 and 2012, It was a project of the Rotary Club of Mutya ng Pasig and Ortigas group of Companies with the help of Participating schools, Barangay and City officials. All floats represented 13 different movie theme Disneyland such as; Hello Kitty, Esmeralda, Puss in Boots, Tinkerbell, Despicable me, Cinderella, Rio, Turbo, Iron Man, Bug’s Life and Turbo. What a superb choice for other floats ! They have a good choice to pick up feminine side on ”Cinderella and Tinkerbell. Those lovely ladies portraying the roles of the said theme were amazingly beautiful. The costume was so glamorous and it was almost perfect! I guess, the costume was costly, huh!
Let’s check all 13 floats and see the result of the event last Sunday! Of course ! it’s gonna be Night Photography shots. The parade started to move around 6 pm.
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”Hello Kitty” Float
”Esmeralda” float
”Puss in Boots” float
”Rio” float
”Tinkerbell” float
”Turbo” float
”Bugs life” float
”Cinderella” float
”Aladdin” float
”Iron Man” float
The night event was well-organized.The Rotarians and sponsors really worked hard lending surprises and for the students to participate and show their hidden talent in dancing.
In the Philippines, you can just imagine, after the super typhoon ”Yolanda” and the destruction. How about the negative issues about our country? The gossip about here and there, non- stop everywhere. We are certain not to lose Christmas spirit, we still continue to focus to what we are doing for the goodness of life, no matter how many ”Yolandas” and ”Ondoys” come to our lives, we got a positive outlook and believe to continue with our hopes and dreams especially Christmas time is a season of sharing and entertaining. So far, I’m online to share a bit of entertainment for you. Click all photos to forget the burdens of life. LOL!
My Holiday greetings to everyone! Merry, Merry Christmas to all !
Note: I forgot the name of the last 3 floats. I’m sorry…
It’s again the season for sharing. Pick a gift and get started giving. Celebrate Christmas with fun and beyond… Get ready kids, Santa again is coming to town. It’s a holiday cheers and memories before the year ends. ”Happy Holidays Everyone”
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A special delivery greetings for you. Here’s Wishing you all a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New year to all!
Note: I did it on my own. That’s the giant Christmas tree I took around the city. There’s a lot more to view soon. More Christmas photos to come.
San Jacinto Seminary ( Alimanao Bridge, Peñablanca) Included in the list as one of the Roman Catholic Seminaries in the world.
Me and my sister visited Cagayan Valley lately, there were 2 reasons for our visit; one is to attend the funeral of our aunt and to visit our hometown. I was very happy to meet my relatives I haven’t seen for long years,they all look younger than ever before our last meeting. It was a big welcome and celebration for us.We chatted and shared stories for long hours. Once again,I’m back to my roots. The second day, We went to visit my 2 nephews currently studying in San Jacinto Seminary.
San Jacinto seminary is located in Tuguegarao city. A peaceful seminary that sits on top of the mountain with a scenic view of the hills, huge farms and the beautiful sunset. What a stunning scenery to view! You can even feel the refreshing pressure of the mountain breeze on top.
I thought it was a regular school day,there was a major activity to be celebrated during that time. It was the ”Year of the Faith”, it was the ”First novena of the feast day of San Jacinto.” We attended the evening mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Bernard B.Corpus, present rector of San Jacinto Seminary.The two new formators, Rev. Fr. Julius Teano as the Prefect of Discipline and Rev. Fr. Brien Catabay as the Spiriual Director and with them is Msgr. Henry Singayan.
I was very proud to see my nephew (Buddy) who plays the piano during the mass. Buddy’s younger brother EJ was well-behaved too. After that,we got the chance to gather for a quick snack although, with a very limited time. I guess,we need to follow the rules of the seminary,we only stayed in the areas designated for parents and visitors.We brought pizza,crispy fried chicken,pastries,chocolates,assorted candies and a lot more to be shared.No problem about the drinks,the cold drinks is always available in the canteen. The food we brought there was a variety of healthy intakes.For all of us, it was a bonding opportunity for moral growth as far as value formation is concerned.
I was impressed and so much to say about this Seminary. I want to share my views about it and due to this reason, I want to publish it right away. I was so impressed on how the seminarians behave, well-disciplined and mentally alert. Sometimes, We give credit to the school’s reputation for the quality education and discipline.
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The aerial view of San Jacinto Seminary. It was bit dark and cloudy, rain is about to come when I took this shot . (Sorry for this picture,it was a bit blurry)
San Jacinto Seminary
Shots taken around 5 pm.
We arrived before 5 in the afternoon. The way going through reaching the top,it was a hill climb.
Like most catholic devotions, attending mass is an obligation. I have observed many things; how the seminarians politely greeted the visitors around, how they prepared the altar, as it was well organized. The venue was filled with seminarians and parents.
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San Jacinto Seminary Chapel where the evening mass was held.
During the mass, it was quiet and solemn.The seminarians sings with the accompaniment of the piano that filled the whole area. You can even feel the presence of God.
Note: (I don’t attempt to disturb and take forbidden shots. This shot was captured far behind the glass window)
The 3 brothers; Buddy,Ej and Lanz. (Buddy and Ej with their school uniform) I’m sure,Lanz the youngest in the family would be the next,he will also be a seminarian soon. San Jacinto Seminary is a blessing for my 2 nephews. It is a good framework with a good sense of direction for them.I guess my brother will not regret sending his 2 sons to this seminary.
I was also impressed to see the cleanliness and orderliness of the school campus.
Sports yard
Cleanliness around the whole campus.
This is how they manage their waste. The sun ray pointing to the definite subject of cleanliness. There’s a huge container to dispose empty cans and bottles. Everything was in order. There’s a definite place to store the biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste. The awareness of the environment,the universal motto of the environmentalists, Reduce,Reuse,Recycle that a student must know to save mother earth.
The very supportive parents; Marte and Elvie giving some reminders during their Sunday visit. Always there to respond to all the needs of the 2 boys.Perhaps,Its a responsibility ,commitment and expectations building the hopes and dreams of their children.
It’s time to enjoy the hot pizza!
Today’s favorite is Pizza that goes well with our favorite drinks too.
The Crispy fried chicken is yummy too!
This is a funny thing ! While eating,an uninvited guests showed up. Dog’s sense of smell when it comes to food is powerful. I guess,we have to bond with them too. If I value friendship with the school then I will also value friendship with animals as well.I just have to include them here.
Here’s the other one. Got 2 dogs now. It’s dalmatian dog appeared while photographing the sunset. I just have to include him as it wants it that way together with the view of the sunset.Funny,isn’t it?
Other shots taken during our visit
The 2 brothers; Buddy and Ej
Buddy with the view of the sunset.
The sunset descending in the horizon. Down there,you can see the vast vegetation,the mountains and the hills. It was a beautiful landscape down there. People in Cagayan enjoys all the advantages of having large farms and vegetation.
One memorable shot was the beautiful sunset taken behind the San Jacinto Seminary building! It was glorious and beautiful !I’ve taken few shots of sunset during my visit there. It was already published earlier than this.
So far, I was exhausted doubled with mixed feeling of happiness and loneliness. I was happy to meet old friends and relatives but, at the same time,I was so sad because of the sudden death of my aunt.
My Message to All Seminarians,
Just like me too,as a former Paulinian, A good impression of the school is very important.I never forget the school that raised me to become one and now, a blogger. Make sure to remember all the glorious 4 years of high school life in San Jacinto Seminary.Learn to start a brighter outlook inner and outer side of you. Soon, you will accomplish something bigger that will give you a brighter future that more than your hearts and mind have dreamed about. Your four years stay in the seminary would be worth remembering to be the best years of your life.
Thank you very much and May God bless you all !
Note:
All pictures was taken during my Cagayan tour. It’s quiet a long blog with 918 words and 25 pictures all in all.
It was a bright and beautiful sunny day but,For all of us,”the pain is too great to bear”. My Tita Nena’s journey in heaven is a very meaningful and special memories to recall.It adds more loneliness to view the peaceful and serene resting place.
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Sanctuary of Peace (Tuguegarao Memorial Park). Taken during the burial of Tita Nena.
White color balloons ..up up and away, until it disappeared out of sight.
The grandchildren holding the balloons before releasing, as they pay their last respects. You can clearly see the balloons was even marked,”We love you Lola Nena”. Pamela(center) holding the picture of Tita Nena.
We firmly believed that these white balloons will direct the right path and guide our aunt on her journey in heaven.
The final goodbye.The private burial rites and the burial site of Tita Nena.
Wherever you may be,We will always remember you,We love you and you will always be alive in our hearts!”May you rest in peace”.
My blog as my expression of grief and sadness over the death of our own aunt.It was really difficult to write with heavy loads of emotional feeling.My tears flowing down my cheeks while writing.I just can’t hold on to stop it.
Note:
This is just the the Part 1 of these article. Full and complete pictures of Funeral mass and Burial rite to view soon. My apology for delaying these subject due to some markings,cropping and to resize multiple pictures. Part 2 to be continued next post.
Here’s Live Life and Love wishing you all, ”Happy Valentine’s day” February is a month of Love. February 14 is Valentine’s day.It was named after the 3rd century old martyr St. Valentine. This day is celebrated with lovely flowers,chocolate cards and any token of love.This is the right time to show,appreciate and thank your loved ones, but, how do you express it?to let them know that you love them?
One way to make someone special on Valentine’s day is to send them a memorable and personalized greetings card.To create your own greetings card is more appreciated than buying the fancy stuffs.A card made on your own is more dedicated that you can put your artistic skills and creativity.Making on your own Valentine’s card will make them feel better knowing you made a bit difference from the rest. This is the best way to inspire your loved ones that will lead to a creative you. Since we are all part of it,let’s work together.
Here’s how to make it a beautiful Valentine’s card
Materials:
Gather all the lovely Valentine related stuffs
heart-shaped boxes
any accessories,(any sizes and shapes)
fancy colored ribbons
rainbow stone charms
small jewelry box
attractive toys
Bond paper or any colored paper or card board
camera
How to make it:
* Spread a bond paper or any colored card board on the table and arrange all the stuffs on it.Arrange them orderly in a creative manner.You can arrange it and disarrange to get a good view.
* Be ready with your camera and photographed it.Make it attractive.Pay attention to color combinations, the more colorful,the better it is.
* Upload pictures to the computer.
* Watermark the images using photoshop. Design a beautiful art, make texts effect and colored texture.
This is a simple Valentine’s card
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Here’s Live Life and Love wishing you all, ”KUNG HEI FAT CHOI” It’s the Lunar year of the water snake.A new year to face challenges again. Chinese New Year will start Feb.10.Those born in the year of the Horse,Rat and Ox are the luckiest for this year.Since this is the lucky year for you especially to those superstitious and believers in Chinese Astrology,it is the season to be merry admittedly, everybody is happy and Chinese majority.This year would bring abundance of money,good luck in love and healthy living. This is what life is all about,Full of surprises.
The Philippine Green Dragon group performed the traditional Dragon and Lion dance during the Chinese new year. The loud sounds of the drums,cymbals and gongs is use to drive away evil spirits.
Snake characteristics;silent,patient,alert,powerful and dangerous. Influences by, those who were born on this year will inherit the traits of an animal ruling over life. Based on the background, One characteristic of a snake is poisonous. Does it mean? it brings danger to? As we humans do not like to think about the danger part, about the earth’s crust that the world is going to end,disasters,avalaches,devastating floods,droughts and famines. We also hate to think about bad health,accidents,bankruptcy,work irregularity and other frustrations to name a few.Is it a proven scientific concept?
Animals thought,brings good luck as well as bad luck too ! Is it better to leave animal bad behavior and take only the good ones?Others, they use powerful animals for campaign posters and made animal symbols very popular.I’m not here to question Western culture, however, I still believe in the power of prayers and faith. Much more to consider, the determination to work harder in order to be successful.What if we just work hard and enjoy what life has to bring? I hope this year will be a productive and harmonious year for all of us ! ”Happy Chinese New Year Everyone !