MEET MY MA

MEET MY MA
Lj Salceda

My Ma is my hero (ine). Next to God, there is no one in the world that I desire to emulate and please than my Ma.

She is not perfect. She is as flawed as everyone else; nonetheless I have the highest regard for her. She did her best to raise my brother and I, at the same time living her life and pursuing some of her dreams.

She will always be the epitome of strength, faith in God, intelligence, compassion and hard work to me.

I don’t ever remember seeing my Ma cry when I was young. I saw her angry, worried, disappointed, struggling and sad, but I’ve never seen her shed tears because of our situation. She only learned to cry in front of us when we came to know the Lord and started praying for a change of heart of our Pa and the restoration of our family.

My Ma is the best prayer warrior I know. She prays before sleeping, in the middle of the night, in her dreams, early in the morning and during the day. I can never keep up with my Ma when it comes to prayer life. She can pray for hours, even days about anything and everything. She prays more than anything else that she does.

My Ma is one of the most intelligent women I know. No, she doesn’t have a masters or a doctorate degree. She’s not even a Bible school graduate, yet she’s established two churches and spoken to thousands of people. She’s my spelling stickler, my grammar checker and my English tutor. When we were in grade school, except for fairy tales or Bible stories, my Mom would usually end our day with a spelling match between my brother and I.

My Ma could be strict, in your face and hard to please, but she’s also the most compassionate woman I know. She is kind to animals (especially my pets), has a huge heart for kids and benevolent to those in need. She takes care of friends and strangers who are abandoned, pregnant, sick, old and away from their families.

She used to be a high school teacher, a factory manager, a government employee, a training supervisor, a Tupperware/Avon dealer and now she’s a minister and a speaker. She’s also an excellent gardener and a very good interior decorator.






My Ma taught me all the important lessons in life. Never serve hot drinks to your guests without saucers. It’s ok not to water your plants every day, especially if they are cacti. The best dwellings are not the biggest nor the most expensive, they are the ones you tidy and beautify with your own hands. Recycle. Work hard for your dreams. If you want to find treasures, explore the library or second hand bookstores. The best lesson I learned from her,"Learn from your mistakes."

At almost 60 years old she’s not scared to learn how to use the computer and inter-net, to travel anywhere God wants her to go even without much money and to run in a local government position as an independent candidate.

She’s an artist and a craftswoman. I’ve never seen scrapbooks as good and as tastefully done as my Ma’s. Such a sad thing that most of her works were destroyed by the typhoons. She can play and sing any song even if she only knows 3 chords – D, G and A.

Math is not her cup of tea nor business or drawing. She has almost zero knowledge in sports, cars or gadgets. She doesn’t know how to drive, to clean her phone inbox or to load a pre-paid phone card.

She’s not into make up, jewelry or designer clothes. But she knows Jimmy Choo, black and brown are not good match in fashion and she’s a suki in ukay-ukay stores.

She’s got great management skills, but not so good at social or PR skills. She’s not scared to speak up her mind even if it means zero attendance the next prayer meeting.

She’s a born leader. She knows what sacrifice is. She walks the talk and talks about her walk.

She’s a single-parent. I’m proud to call her my Ma.

My VISA Story: Part 2 (Preparing for & Surviving the Interview)

(Sorry I had to remove my tourist visa pic because someone already used it to steal/use my identity for criminal activities. Geeezzz.) 

My VISA Story: Part 2
Lj T. Salceda

Read Part 1 here.

The day of the interview, again I tried to arrive early. My appointment was at 8:30am, but I was at the embassy grounds at 6:30am and the line was already unbelievably long. I only got two hours of sleep the night before, but I didn't feel drowsy at all. I was still overwhelmed with anticipation and nerves.

Gadgets like cellphones, psp, music player and even calculators are not allowed inside the embassy; so are liquids such as bottled water or coffee, unless you have a child with you they allow baby formula/milk. At the gate, they will initially check your documents and look for the receipt from BDO. The Embassy staff will then ask for your passport and will put a sticker/code on the cover if you have all the required documents.

You will then be guided to the “scanning” area and proceed to the FIRST STEP – THOROUGH CHECKING OF FORMS & PASSPORT. I made a mistake of putting NO in the box where they ask if you’ve ever been issued a passport by any country. I assumed that the Philippines is excluded, so I answered NO. The embassy staff told me to put Philippines in the box.

Also, be reminded that you shouldn’t leave boxes/questions unanswered. If something doesn’t apply to you (like National Identification Number/Spouse’s Name) put N/A or None.

Once your forms and passport have been checked and approved, the embassy staff will forward them to the interviewing officer, in exchange they will give you a four digit number. Then the waiting will start. Talk to your seatmates/batchmates to calm your nerves or bring a book to entertain yourself.

They will announce your number/batch for the finger printing section, listen carefully so you won’t miss your turn. Once your number is called, queue to the SECOND STEP – FINGER PRINTING SECTION.

You will be ushered to another window with the finger printing machine (all fingers will be scanned), tell the embassy staff your full name and birth date and follow the instructions by the staff in-charge. This will only take a few seconds/minutes, then you will proceed to the dreaded interview area.

The THIRD & FINAL STAGE (for some) – INTERVIEW PORTION. This is it! Again, you have to wait for your number to be flashed above the window where you will be assigned. While waiting for your turn, try to eavesdrop (the interview is sometimes loud enough for most people near the windows to hear) and study the questions to the applicants being interviewed. You will learn a lot and be more prepared/confident with your answers. If you need an interpreter, inform the embassy beforehand.

After almost an hour of waiting, my number was flashed and I was assigned at the window with a young American lady (probably in her late 20’s.) While she was interviewing a previous applicant, I overheard that she was still new in Manila and that most of her stuff have not yet arrived. The entire time that I was waiting she only rejected two applicants and in both cases the applicants have inconsistent information/answers on their forms/interview. I silently prayed to God to let me be at her window, she seemed nice and friendly. My prayers were answered when my number was flashed above her window!

Most of her questions were about my work and my boyfriend John.

- How did you two meet?

- How long have you been dating?

- Have you seen him (John) in person?

- Any plans of getting married?

- How long have you been working in your company?

- How much do you earn?

- Why such a short time for a vacation?

It’s understandable to be nervous or to even pause for a few seconds, but try to talk sensibly. Give clear, direct and short answers. If the question is answerable by yes or no, just say YES or NO Ma'am/Sir. If the consul asks for an explanation, then be prepared to defend your answers. My brother told me that as long as there are no inconsistencies with what you say and what is written on your forms, your chances of getting approved is really high.

After probably five minutes, she didn’t asked me anymore questions and just typed away on her computer. I thought she was making a letter or a list of reasons why I will be denied, but after almost a few minutes of waiting (while standing, you will not be seated during the entire interview) at the other end of the window, she delivered the good news!

"CONGRATULATIONS! Your visa has been approved. You may now proceed to Air21 for the info on the visa delivery."

I wanted to jump up and down and hug every person I saw after I got out of the interview room. What a relief, joy and an answered prayer! Finally, I can eat! I can sleep! And most important of all, I will see my honey soon! YAY!!!

There were also three important lessons I’ve learned from the research I did regarding the interview portion.

1. Be HONEST.
2. Be POSITIVE.
3. Be PREPARED.

Lying, falsifying documents, bribing people, going through the short cut (if there’s one) will only produce more problems in the long run.

Finally, if it’s the Lord’s will, it will come to pass. Trust Him, He has never failed or made a mistake!

Now if I can only find an affordable flight to LA...

My VISA Story (Not the bank/credit card company, the travel one): Part 1

My VISA story (travel visa): Part 1
Lj T. Salceda


“You’ll never get it!”

“You have a very slim chance of getting approved.”

“You are what they consider a high risk case.” (Me: I beg your pardon???) “Well, you are single, never been out of the Philippines, no fat bank account and you are dating an American. Those things make you a high-risk individual.” (Me: But I’m no terrorist or drug dealer or smuggler! I don’t have any contagious disease that I know of.)

Those were just some of the reactions/comments I’ve heard and tried so hard to dismiss in my head since I’ve informed friends & office mates about my US tourist visa application.

I’ve never expected that applying for a visa would be such a nerve-wracking experience! Restlessness, upset tummy and mind freeze (more like nosebleed) from practicing my English for days (maybe weeks/months for some) for such a coveted stamp. Why would anyone go all these troubles for a piece of paper? I guess you need to read their purpose of visit on the DS 156 form to know their answers.

My online research only escalated my apprehensions. Reading tale after tale after tale of visa denials, inconsiderate consuls, crushed dreams and wasted resources generated nightmares and panic attacks. And I’m the type of person who rarely gets rattled or nervous.

Thank the good Lord for giving me the best boyfriend in the world! He’s been very supportive from day one. He and his friends prayed for me for weeks. Not only that, he also helped me with the expenses and patiently encouraged me during the times that I was ready to back out. He’s been the personification of hope, optimism and faith in the Lord all through out the whole journey. The day before the interview he lovingly assured me with these words, “Honey you will come in and go out of the embassy building blessed.” Is he a prophet or what? :)

So I started the CHALLENGE of US (TOURIST aka B1/B2) VISA APPLICATION.

First I had my old, never been used, green passport renewed to the latest, maroon-colored, electronic one. I chose the 10 days shorter processing option, plus one day delivery service (by Pilipinas TeleServe), but it still took 13 days before I finally got my brand new passport. The delay, according to the DFA personnel I talked to was due to a machine malfunction at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas office (where the passports are being printed) and because of the Holy Week vacation.

What I do love about the new system and venue for the passport application: it was quicker, more organized and efficient. I can still remember the first time I applied for a passport: traumatic, loooong and exhausting.

FTI of those who want to apply (renew) for a PASSPORT:

First, you need to call or apply on-line for an appointment. After a few days or a week the most, you will be given your confirmation/code through e-mail. Prepare all the requirements before the day of your appointment. On the day of your appointment, arrive at least an hour early. You’ll be surprised to learn that lines get long quick.

Only those that have appointments will be allowed inside the DFA building. After showing/telling the guard your code/confirmation, you will be ushered near the main door and handed a form (with your name and initial info) in order to complete the details you’ve given them on the phone/on-line.

At the main door, you will be handed a number and will be told to sit down while waiting for your turn. Your number will be flashed above the window where your documents will be checked and surrendered. You will then be instructed to go upstairs to pay for the visa (there are 10 days and 20 days processing options). After paying the appropriate amount, you will be given another number for the photograph (this will be taken at the DFA office, no need to bring passport pics) and the signature collection. Make sure you’re wearing a blouse/dress/shirt with collar or bring a blazer with you. Fix yourself before going to the DFA office because you will have no time to do this in line (unless you're a magician).

The DFA personnel will take 2 to 3 shots and will allow you to choose. After selecting your best picture and signature, you may prefer to have your passport delivered or picked up. If you opt the former, you will then go to the booth of the assigned courier to fill out another form and leave them your passport receipt so that they can claim it for you on the day of the release. Pay for the delivery fee and keep the receipt that they will give you. Add an extra day or two to the release date of your passport before you can finally claim it. It took me only less than two hours to complete the whole process.

The day my passport arrived I started working on the basic tourist visa requirements such as DS 156 and DS 157 forms (both downloadable online), visa payment at BDO (they will also give you a copy of the DS 157 form at the bank, so you can choose to use it or the one on the website) and visa picture. (Reminder: always visit the US Embassy website for updates and changes on the requirements.)

I also started preparing my “proof of ties,” a collection of documents or materials that will prove you have legitimate or compelling reasons to come back to the Philippines and not stay as a TNT or tago-ng-tago (illegal alien) in the US. For examples of proof of ties go to the embassy’s webpage. I obtained a certificate of employment, my last ITR (Income Tax Return), pictures of my family and with John (my boyfriend), my last 3 pay slips and I also asked John to write a letter to the embassy in case they ask for a proof that we are indeed in a “dating relationship.”

I also called the US embassy visa hotline for an appointment, however I found out that I need to fill out and print the DS 156 form first and get the barcode from the form before they could let me choose from the available dates/times for the interview. I had to go back to the inter-net shop and fill out the form and call the embassy again for the appointment. Once you’ve chosen the date/time, they’ll give you a code as a “password” through e-mail which you will use at the gate of the embassy.

I was really grateful that God didn’t let me go through a long, agonizing “waiting” period. There were available slots just four days from the day I called. So I chose the earliest date and time and prepared for the BIG DAY.

Read Part 2: Interview Day here.

Not your usual summer...

Except for the usual camps, summer classes and beach activities; the next two months try to learn a skill, be part of a cause or win something big (or charge it to experience if you don't win). Make it an unforgettable, productive and meaningful vacation by joining these activities/contests.


If you’re a WRITER, here are some contests you might want to consider:
- Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature
- Be a Star Mom Essay writing (write and send an essay with 300 words describing why your mom, grandma or aunt is a Star Mom to starmoms@philstar.com.ph, deadline Apr.18,2010)


If you’re a PHOTOGRAPHER, whether amateur or professional try these competitions:
- My City, My SM
- I Love Philippines 3
- Lonely Planet’s Photo Travel Contest


If you're a MUSIC or EVENTS AFFICIONADO, volunteer or attend these events:
- Passion Conference
- Do Hard Things Manila


If you're into NATURE LOVER, join the cause to save planet Earth and win exciting prizes:
- I Love Nature


If you're a BACKPACKER, tell 'em about your (bad) trip and upgrade your experience!
- Pimp My Trip


If you're a TECHIE, who doesn't want the latest gadget by Apple???
- Win an IPAD!!!


Note:
I'm not paid to advertise these competitions or connected to any of the companies/sponsors. I did join some of these contests. :)

This Holy Week I Will...

(picture courtesy of www.free-extras.com)

THIS HOLY WEEK, I WILL…
Lj T. Salceda

Except for a well deserved r & r especially for the working people, the mandatory Seven Last Words and the Sunrise Service on Easter Sunday- make the most of your Holy Week vacay by including or considering some of these to-do ideas.

This Holy Week I will…

1. ESCAPE. If you’re like me that haven’t got the time or money to travel or avail of a long vacay, why don’t you come up with your own “mini-vacation”? Holy Week is the time when the roads of Manila are not so clogged. Explore the metro or your town or your barangay. Do a food trip. Climb a nearby mountain or hill. Go on a a joy ride or a picnic with your loved ones/friends. Stay away from the malls- they are usually close on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.

2. WATCH and LEARN. Radio and TV stations typically have their special Lenten programming during this time of the year. If you’ve had enough of their replays/marathon broadcast or the usual religious-themed shows/movies, have your own movie marathon or programming at home. I bought a compilation of BBC’s documentaries about the life of Jesus Christ and other Biblical figures & issues for a discounted price of P600. (They also have documentaries on sale about Rome/Ancient Egypt/machines etc.) Included in my to-watch DVD's are The History of Christianity series from House Of Praise & a few biographies of famous Christian figures. Boring you might say, but I am planning to have a crash course in Christian history this Semana Santa. Of course there’s a wide variety of movies/shows to choose from!

3. SIMPLIFY. Show some love to mother earth by arranging/recycling/salvaging your magazines/books/wardrobe collection. Time to sew those missing buttons, polish your shoes or delete old files from your computer. You can also clean up your kikay kit or bags. Because of busyness, most of us girls don’t have the time to wash or clean or even change our hair brush/comb, make-up kits, toothbrush and even our bags. As we check and unclutter our hearts/spirits from spiritual baggage, do your self a favor and exercise it to your wallets/purses/bags too.

4. PARTICIPATE. There are various Holy Week-related activities like musicals/plays/concerts/seminars/exhibits lined-up this year. Go out, attend and show your support.

5. BEAUTIFY. Sleep longer, detoxify, dust your old bike and use it, have a facial or get a massage. Be good to your body. You will never regret it.

6. CHURCH HOP. Roman Catholics have their "visita iglesias", who says you can’t do it too if you’re an Evangelical or Protestant or Baptist? I have long been planning to do my own “visita iglesia”. Wouldn’t it be an adventure to study and capture in photos some of the biggest or interesting or oldest “Christian” churches in the Philippines or even Manila? Any suggestions?

7. DISCOVER. Try a new recipe or do an old recipe with a new twist! How many meals have you actually tried from all your recipe books? 3 maybe 5 the most. Why not prepare one full meal all taken from or inspired by your recipe books? Change is good. Perhaps you can try going vegetarian for a day.

8. TESTIFY. Give Bible tracts, text some thoughts to ponder or tell your friends to listen to 702 DZAS or watch the 700 Club. Here’s another suggestion- why don’t you write your testimony or recall a time in your life when God did something miraculous/extra-ordinary and post it on your blog or send it to Tanikalang Lagot (Unshackled radio program) or your church? Share what God has done in your life.

9. FAST. I am not just referring to abstinence from food or drinks. Fast from technology or work or worry or expenses. Contemplate, journal, commune with God. Be still and know that He is God.

10. REMEMBER. Think about His love. Think about His goodness. Think about His grace. That brought us through... GREAT IS THE MEASURE OF OUR FATHER’S LOVE. Thank the Lord.

Whatever you plan to do this season, as long as you do it for the glory of the Lord Jesus, the REASON why we have Holy Week in the first place – that’s the best list/goal/thing you can ever accomplish. You don’t need my list or someone else’s. Do what He wants you to do. Obey.

After a Break-Up: Picking Up the Pieces (Part 2)

After a Break-up: Picking Up The Pieces (Part 2)
Lj T. Salceda

You’re still in disbelief or perhaps denial. It’s only been a few days, maybe weeks but the pain is still sickening, debilitating to a point. You still go through the same roller-coaster of negative emotions.

It’s torture. Why can’t God take away the pain? Can’t He see? Can’t He hear your cries at night? Why can’t you bring back time or just stop breathing, thinking and hurting? It’s unbearable, you toy with the idea of ending it all or your life.

DON’T! If you take your life, you just pass on the misery, humiliation and expenses to your family and friends. It’ll be the start of a different gamut of problems. Whatever heartache, problem, trial or hardship you are going through SUICIDE is NEVER the SOLUTION my dear. (And neither is killing someone else. It’s MURDER.)

Someone you cared for, you loved deeply, you treasured more than your life cheated on you, left you, chose to be with another girl/guy or caused you too much emotional/mental/physical damage. Shattered your dreams. Broke your heart or your bank account. Wasted you time and your money. You’re left flooded with questions and drowning in tears… How could he? Is there something wrong with me? Why us? What now?

“Take him back,” says a small part of you. “Fight for him. Tell him you’ll forget it ever happened, if he won’t do it again.” You try to convince yourself that no relationship is perfect. No one is. You’re willing to do whatever it takes to repair the relationship, if there is still one. "Just come back, please." In your heart, you beg. What would be life without him?

Ahhh, has sanity abandoned me?

Alas, reason prevails! If I accept a cheating guy, I only empower him to hurt me more. You’ve given him many chances. You’ve done your best. Enough is enough! How do you survive a heart break and move on gracefully? The first hours, even days are crucial and the hardest. It will feel like hell. But it won’t be that way forever. I tell yah! Been there and done these things:

1. Face it- he left/cheated/lied/betrayed you. It is PAINFUL. Like a million daggers piercing every part of you. It's tormenting. Then numbness sets in. Stop blaming yourself or others. It won’t do any good. It happened. But it’s now part of history.

2. Let it out! Cry, scream, hit the punching bag at the gym, ran, tell God how you feel, write about your experience.

3. Lick your wounds. Dry your tears. Force yourself to get up or eat/sleep/rest/work/do your chores. I ate instant noodles for dinner for one week so my intestines will have something to digest. Not too healthy, but better than not eating at all. It was hard enough to cook, much more swallow regular food. But I forced myself to finish a small cup in between sobbing. Don't be paralyzed by your past or your mistakes.

4. Choose to be positive. The situation will not change overnight. You won’t feel better in a day. You won’t forget in a week. Like what Ptr. Ed Lapiz said, "Selective memory is needed to be happy." Don't wallow in pain or self-pity for a looong time. You'll miss a lot. It will rob you of many beautiful, wonderful opportunities/things.

5. Allow distractions/diversions. Go out with your friends (even if you become the butt of their jokes). Tackle new projects. Learn a new skill. Go on a trip. Climb a mountain, but don’t jump off the cliff.

6. Shine! Let's just say that a heartbreak/wrong guy is like getting a make-over. Chemicals or procedures are used to remove what is not essential or to enhance a specific part of your body/life to reveal a more beautiful/better you. For a day or two it will sting, you will struggle; but you are treated to an amazing result (as long as you don't get an allergic reaction). Don’t let a guy (or problems) get the best of you. Let it bring out the best in you girl!

7. Let yourself heal. It is a process. It takes time. Don’t jump in another relationship. Don’t bring unnecessary baggage to a new or possible love/partner. THE right guy will come. It's OK to avoid things/people/places that will remind you of him. The time will come when you will have the courage to face them.

8. READ. I've found so much comfort in some of the books I've read such as How To Mend a Broken Heart by Nelson Dy and When Everything Goes Wrong by William Girao. Or if you want to escape for a while, try some comic relief- read Bob Ong books, Archie or Charlie Brown.

9. If it gets too difficult to bear, talk to a professional. It won’t make you less of a person.

10. Learn from your experience. Share what you’ve learned.

“God has a reason why he plucked him out of your life,” said my writing mentor after a one-on-one girl talk. “It’s time to move on Lj,” she added. And I did.



Read Part 1 here.

Epilogue:
I am now dating a super sweet, loving guy. I can’t thank God enough for waking me up from a horrible nightmare, sustaining me all through out the whole ordeal and giving me what I deserve- the BEST!

Break-up: Losing Someone You Love (Part 1)

Click here to getImages &
Smashed And Broken Heart Pictures

About a year ago, I went through one of the roughest times in my life. I've not really opened up with anyone about my break-up (except for a short interview by Ate Haydee on Family Matters back in Aug), so this is the first time I am openly talking, rather writing about it. I made a two-part series about this experience, the first article is more about what I FELT. I put them on paper the day after the break-up. While the second will tackle how I DEALT with that difficult stage.


Break-Up: Losing Someone You Love (Part 1)
Lj T. Salceda

Just when I thought things were going great (vacation plans set, flights ready to be booked and sked’s re-arranged); my world came to a halt and came crumbling down. I found myself back to the same path I know too well, but dreaded my entire life. My worst nightmare is happening right in front of my very eyes.

I just lost a dear friend- my best friend (just when I thought I finally have one), my confidante, my mentor, my cheerer, my sweetheart (so I thought.) Someone I cared so much and loved more than a friend. The past two and half years have been anything but easy; nonetheless I persisted, fought and did not give up on him, on us. I thought I've finally found someone I could trust with my secrets. Someone I could open up and talk about the mundane and important things in life- my day, my dreams, my struggles, my fears. Someone I could bare my heart and soul with and still love me for who I am. Someone who could protect me and be there during the up’s and down's. Now he’s gone.

There isn’t a word in the English, Tagalog or even Bicol dictionary that could describe what I’m going through right now. I am shattered. I am confused. I am crushed. I am infuriated. I feel worthless, scared, sad, betrayed and disappointed. Whoever said that there’s beauty in pain? Ah, I feel like my head is going to explode from all the questions waiting for answers. Why does life have to be so cruel? Why does it have to happen again? (After my parents separation.) Why him? Why me? And a million other questions.

Everything is a struggle now. Sleep has been elusive. Even eating is a chore. I refused to make new friends. I became more of a cynic and a skeptic of relationships. Screw love! Outside I’m composed and all smiles, but my core is a wreck. One moment I’m collected, a second after I’m having a breakdown inside the ladies' room. Now I understand why people jump off of buildings or turn to drugs or succumb to mental breakdown.

How could I even start to forget him when my surrounding reminds me so much of him? His pictures used to adorn my table. His voice served as my alarm clock. His messages kept me through a difficult day. His promises gave me hope. There’s the bookstore at the corner. The basketball court. The mall. Those darn love songs.

After all the waiting, the sacrifices, the prayers, the expenses – he’s gone. Perhaps it was my fault. Why did I give my heart, my trust, my love to him? I knew men were dorks! Maybe I shouldn’t have gotten into this in the first place. Why didn’t I end it when things got shaky and he got shady? Why didn’t I take the red-flags seriously? Obviously I didn’t, now I’m paying the price.

I will never be the same again. Maybe I still have lessons to learn. Maybe I wasn’t ready or mature as I thought I was. Maybe he wasn't THE man for me. Maybe it wasn't the right time yet. Maybe God has a better plan. Doesn’t He always have anyways?

I know there are no shortcuts to recovery, to healing, to moving on. Let me lament for now… I ought to choose the difficult part sooner than later. Forgive and let go. I’ve read this from somewhere “Some of us think holding on makes us strong; but sometimes it is letting go.” So please help me God…

“...He makes all things beautiful in His time."

Read Part 2 here.

BEAUTIFUL still even after the rain :)

I ♥ FLOWERS! (If you have to use these photos, please acknowledge that they're from me.)


JADE VINE FLOWER



TORCH FLOWER



A LILY or AN ORCHID?



PINK FLOWER



RED FLOWER

SUCCESS STORY

SUCCESS STORY
By Lj T. Salceda

I love success stories! The rags-to-riches, true-to-life, self-made people and their tales of survival and triumphs make me believe in the possibility of the impossible. If they can why can’t I?

I do know a different success story. Memorized and played it in my head countless of times. I know all the twists and turns, the characters, the highs, the lows and the in-between-ins- well except for the finale. It is my own story. My journey.

Unlike Manny Villar- I don’t have millions in the bank or a conglomeration of businesses or a prestigious seat in the government. No, I am not as rich or as powerful as Mr. Presidential. I am a daily-rate radio announcer. My 28-inch SONY TV is the most expensive item I’ve ever purchased. And I have a microphone, the airwaves and the written word as my platforms.

Unlike Manny Pacquiao- I don’t earn thousands of dollars per punch (or word in my case). I don’t grace the cover of international magazines like TIME or Reader’s Digest. Neither do I get visits from Hollywood stars. No, I’m not as well-known or as influential as the PACMAN. I do have a full time job and two part-time jobs, yet I will never earn even a quarter of what this renowned sports figure earns per fight. I usually write articles for local magazines. I often beg celebrities/important people to be on my shows.

Unlike Sarah Geronimo- I don’t have blockbuster movies, platinum albums, sold out concerts and endorsements of almost every type of product there is. No, I’m not as recognizable and adorable, er talented as the Philippines' Pop Princess. I did play a small role in an episode of 700 Club dramatized testimonies. I get free books, concert tickets and CD’s from our partner companies. I play and listen to thousands of songs from a wide range of artists on my musical show and I’m hoping my listeners are not only entertained, but also inspired by what I do.

I’m no way near the fortune they make, not even close to their fame and NO, I’m not endorsing any of them. I do admire their talents, achievements and work ethics. My SUCCESS story is quite different from theirs though.



As an active girl scout of the Philippines from elementary to high school, I’ve attended dozens of camps, participated in various projects and have been awarded GSP of the year in secondary school. Yet, I’ve never had my own GSP uniform, my Mom could barely afford our baon, and I have always been a sickly young girl. How did I do it? Lots of hard work and determination! I sold ice candies; baby sat my cousins and solicited from politicians and businessmen for financial assistance. Our yard and our neighbors’ backyard have been our local pharmacy.



As a consistent honor student, I’ve walked the stage to receive my awards wearing borrowed dresses and shoes. We barely had the money for tennis shoes for my PE class! I lived on borrowed things- from jogging pants to back packs to books. When JS prom came, I was torn. The P250 registration fee was heavy enough for my mother to pay for a night of dancing and drinking (soda); not to mention the dress, make up and transportation. Would poverty stop me from experiencing a milestone (for some teenagers) in high school? Of course not! My solution? I went to the prom wearing my aunt’s Sunday dress, my black school shoes (the same pair I wore when I trekked Mount Mayon) and asked a family friend to help me apply some of her inexpensive make-up at the warehouse where she was working at that time. For the transpo, I hitched with my classmate who has an owner type jeep- 4 of us stacked at the back seat.



I worked my way through college, graduated Cum Laude and landed my dream job after being a volunteer for eight months. I’ve been in media for ten years now however, I still live in a dorm, travel via public transportation and from time to time avail of loans in our cooperative for big, unexpected expenses.



But I do consider myself a SUCCESS. Why? Just to give you a few reasons.

1. I was able to finish a degree without getting in debt.

2. I can eat three, sometimes more square meals a day. With my choice food.

3. I can buy any clothes or shoes I want for whatever occasion.

4. I have been to some of my dream destinations like Palawan and Boracay before I turned 30.

5. My Ma is as healthy and as active as anyone her age (59). My brother is getting better after battling depression.

6. I have a decent amount saved for medical emergencies or a Master’s degree or even missionary work. I don’t have a credit card. I’ve applied thrice, been rejected thrice. What a relief (or was it a shame?)!

7. I am ALIVE and HEALTHY! A little stressed out from working too much, but I don’t have any serious health conditions that I’m aware of.

8. My articles have been featured in various magazines, newspapers and books. I am currently writing a book.

9. I’ve worked with and gotten to know some of the most beautiful, powerful and well-known people in business, politics, entertainment and other fields.

10. I can dream and work harder, even fight for the rest of my dreams that are still waiting for fulfillment.

Mr. Good old dictionary defines success as “the achievement of something desired, planned, or attempted.” I’ve certainly accomplished some of the things I’ve only dreamed of when I was younger, however I still have a looong way to go. Let me brag, I mean, savor the fruits of my labor for now.

Yes, I am a success! How about you?

GIFT IDEAS

10 PRACTICAL, EASY TO FIND/DO and CREATIVE HOLIDAY GIFTS
Lj T. Salceda

Ay, calendar na naman? Planner ulit?

Are you tired of getting and giving the same gifts every time the holiday season kicks in? Bakit kasi ‘di mo inaantay itong article ko? Joke lang! I got caught in the midst of the C’mas preps and the usual work duties kaya medyo na-delay. In case you’re still completing your list and checking it the nth time and still scratching your head trying to streeeeeetch your budget, here’s my personal list of what-to-give this season.

1. GIFT CHEQUES/CARDS - Whether it’s from/for a mall or SPA or fave coffee brand, who could ever resist or be disappointed by a GC? Well, not me! Specially if it’s over 500! Lol! May required amount pa? Basta, pag may GC ako, masaya na ako. Madali pang mabili di ba?

2. DEVOTIONAL BOOKS – Sabayan mo na ng journal or planner and pen or marker. There’s one for almost every type of reader. Meron na for mothers, men, couples, professionals, teenagers, kids, Tagalog, English, mahal, mura etc. Eto ang alternative, if it’s for your business partner or superior, why not try a coffee table book like 100 Ways to Live the Word from PBS?



3. SUBSCRIPTION for MAGAZINES/NEWSPAPERS – This one super tagal ko ng gustong ma-receive for C’mas, pero hanggang ngayon walang maka-isip magbigay sa akin. He, he, he! Just do a little sleuthing and find out what your recipient’s favorite mag or newspaper of choice is. Then, surprise him or her with a subscription gift! 

4. PRE-PAID CARD/LOAD – You just have to know if it’s post-paid or pre-paid and what network ang gamit n’ya. Then either buy him or her a month’s (or more) worth of cellphone/inter-net load or pay his or her bill if it won’t break your bank.

5. MULTIPLE USE ITEMS – I am a sucker for this one! I search for clothes or household items that you can use in various ways like this blouse I got that you can wear 14 different ways or this box cum chair cum décor I bought.

6. RE-FILL GALORE – Whether it’s their fave scent or their gas tank or their bank account. Joke lang! Mahirap yung last one, but you can sneak in a re-filled bottle of their fave perfume or fill-up the coin/piggy bank with 5 or 10 peso coins or lahat ng pwedeng punuin sa bahay n’yo or office, without telling them para may element of surprise, pwede!!!

7. HOME MADE or PERSONALIZED ITEMS – If you’re into baking/cooking/sewing/drawing etc., why not maximize your skills and put a personal touch to your holiday gift? Save some moolah or earn some if you’ll sell your products or render a service. Or you can check out some of my friends' products like Little Cakes (the best cupcake in the Philippines!) or Ignite shirts.



8. THEMATIC GIFTS – Why not give him/her a bag or basket of all his/her fave things? Example, know what is her fave meryenda or frequently used toiletries and put it in a nice basket. Perhaps you can also do an all-blue or gifts-for-a-cause or all environment-friendly items, ala kris kringle!

9. TURN BACK TIME – Maybe he/she missed a concert or a movie or an episode of her fave TV show, buy or record it then present it with matching popcorn and drinks pa! Get inspiration or idea from his/her frustrations and you will be surprised to know it doesn’t take much to make someone happy.

10. BOXES or STORAGE CONTAINERS – Sa dami ng matatanggap mong gifts ngayong Pasko, sumisikip na closet mo. Kaya what’s the next best thing other than a new and clean closet, siyempre boxes or storage containers! Colorful na, multi-functional pa and plenty of designs to choose from.

Share mo din ang iyong personal ideas for a stress-free, budget-friendly yet memorable holiday gift sharing. Blessed holidays everyone!