The Sunday Currently, vol. 5

C  U  R  R  E  N  T  L  Y  .  .  .  

R E A D I N G Easy by Tammara Webber. I've been enjoying a lot of books lately, ranging from young adult fiction, contemporary, adult romance, chick lit, dystopian and adventure and I'm able to finish 1 book per day. Thanks to Goodreads, I discovered so many great titles! 

W R I T I N G  today's TSC, taking a break from reading the aforementioned book.

L I S T E N I N G to my dad's Adobe Photoshop video tutorial in the background.

T H I N K I N G about how awesome it is to read so many books just for leisure!

S M E L L I N G the wonderful scent of coffee.

W I S H I N G for more hours in a day. Seriously, there's so many books to read, so little time.

H O P I N G my plans for the future would work out for the best.

W E A R I N G a white oversized Aeropostale shirt and black shorts.

L O V I  N G books & coffee & BMO from The Adventure Time  :)

W A N T I N G a venti Caramel Macchiato from Starbucks.

N E E D I N G to buy colorful nail polish to perk up my mood.

F E E L I N G calm and contented.

C L I C K I N G the next page button of my ebook.

God bless! :) Join us in The Sunday Currently Link-up

My Ideal Guy

Day 26 of The October Daily My kind of guy

Confession: I've never had a boyfriend. I'm not kidding. I grew up in a family where my parents are extremely strict when it comes to having a relationship with a boy, at least after we graduate college, plus the fact that I have 6 brothers who doesn't approve as well. It was an unspoken rule that should be followed lest we suffer tough consequences, applicable to all of us women in the family. But I understood where they were coming from and I also didn't want to be bothered with my studies. Anyway, now I'm done with school that means I'm free at last lol. There's a caveat though, my brothers told me that whoever will court me should pass their standards first, if not then I shouldn't bother(an inside joke in the family. Or not?). So here are a number of ways a guy can win my heart:

Someone who can old an intellectual conversation with me and introduce new things

Good sense of humor

Thoughtful and sweet

Ambitious and hard-working

Respectful

Someone who is in sync with my personality

I know in God's time we would meet each other but till then, I'm gonna enjoy first being single and work on my career. I hope everyone would find their perfect match because falling in love is truly one of the best things in life. :)

7 Deadly Sins

Found this awesome linkup, perfect for Halloween! Thanks to Donna! :)

seven great things in your life.

1.  My incredible support system - family and friends.

2. My cooking and baking skills.
3. God.
4. Hope.
5. Mom.
6. The infallible determination to pursue my goals.
7. Accepting things that I cannot change.

seven things you lack and covet.

1.  A man.

2. An exciting career.

3.  A fit and toned body. (I'm working on it though!)
4. Perfect skin.
5. Patience.
6. Purpose, clarity and direction.
7. Self-confidence.

seven things that make you angry.

1.  Unfair situations.
2. Insensitive remarks and comments.
3. Politics.
4. Over thinking / over analyzing.
5. Immaturity.
6. Disrespect.
7. Volatile individuals.

seven things that you neglect to do.

1.  Eating in moderation.
2. Calling my parents when I'm out late.
3. Cleaning my room.
4. Reply to text messages.
5. Leaving the kitchen sink messy.
6. Drinking water everyday.
7. Floss.

seven worldly material desires.

1.  A beautiful house.
2. DSLR camera.
3. A plane ticket to London + allowance.
4. A walk-in closet
5. A ginormous library.
6. A huge bank account.
7. Mini gym.

seven guilty pleasures.

1. All kinds of sweets - especially donuts.
2. Unlimited rice.
3.  Internet.
4. A heaping bowl of pasta.
5. Video games and anime/manga.
6. Dining in fancy restaurants.
7. Fried anything.

seven things you love about love.

1.  The butterflies.

2. A partner in crime.

3. Kisses.

4. Surprises.
5. Dates and late night outs.
6. Happiness it brings.
7. Someone who's always there for you. 

The Happy List, vol. 3

1. The feeling you get when a terrible time is over.

2. Coming up with the right solutions to problems.

3. Finding my true calling/purpose.

4. Freshly baked cookies, pastries and cakes.

5. The smell of a bookstore.

6. A book I can't put down.

7. Finding something I love on sale.

8. New school supplies

9. Compilation of tried and tested recipes, cookbooks and food magazines.

10. Finding money I forgot about.

11. The realization that this too shall pass.

12. Big, tight hugs that make you feel wanted and loved.

13. Finally saying goodbye to someone who does nothing but hurt you.

14. Comfy clothes, a comfy bed, delicious smelling candle and my favorite book or movie.

15. Unprecedented peacefulness.

16. Donuts and brewed coffee

Join the Camie Juan Happy List Link-up Here!

Book Review | Looking For Alaska

Day 22 of The October Daily A Book Review

So, I immediately looked for more John Green books after finishing Fault In Our Stars as I became obsessed with his literary works. After seeing this on the list of the top 10 young adult books consistently and the fact that it's his Printz award-winning first novel, I knew I had to pick it up. And I tell you, it has surpassed my expectations; John Green is seriously talented. It is one of the few books I've read that I would describe as overwhelmingly brilliant. 

Before. Miles "Pudge" Halter's whole existence has been one big nonevent, and his obsession with famous last words has only made him crave the "Great Perhaps" (François Rabelais, poet) even more. Then he heads off to the sometimes crazy, possibly unstable, and anything-but-boring world of Culver Creek Boarding School, and his life becomes the opposite of safe. Because down the hall is Alaska Young. The gorgeous, clever, funny, sexy, self-destructive, screwed-up, and utterly fascinating Alaska Young, who is an event unto herself. She pulls Pudge into her world, launches him into the Great Perhaps, and steals his heart.

After. Nothing is ever the same. 

The book reminded me of Perks of Being a Wallflower, it is also from the point of view of a teenage boy and his struggle to find himself. It contains the most thought provoking and mysterious ending I've ever read. There were  questions left unanswered but John Green pointed out that books belong to their readers and he left it that way because we have to live with the ambiguity of the story. Which actually makes sense since it adds more excitement to the already mystifying theme. 

The characters were very relatable and I just love the serious and humorous moments that transpired between them. The friendship between Pudge and Colonel was my favorite; it was put to the test when something tragic happened but then they were able to get past the shocking and unbearable situation and somehow handled it maturely in the end.

Another noteworthy aspect of the book is the symbols/metaphors used in the compelling story. It gives the story more depth and character, making it a force to be reckoned with.

And of course, so many wonderful quotes were strewn all over. I simply adore this quote: "I go to seek a Great Perhaps." It was the famous last words of a French writer, which drove Pudge to Culver Creek where he got more than what he was looking for.

I highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone.

My rating: 5 stars

Leap of Faith

We're ten days away from November and this challenge has made the days go by extremely fast -  next thing you know it's already December! Not that I'm complaining, in fact, I cannot wait for next year as I'll be starting a new chapter in my life - I'm  going to pursue a medical degree! That's right. First, let me just share the recent happenings in my life. So, the real reason why I suddenly turned a new leaf was because I realized that I don't fit in the hospitality industry, believe me I tried but there's always this nagging and empty feeling inside me whenever I think of my future in the said industry. I've gone through a terrible winter for the past few months because I felt like I was going nowhere and I couldn't help feeling anxious and restless. My only consolation is that I was able to graduate with less expenses because of the full scholarships I earned all throughout my college years. I prayed to Him for clarity and direction and I think this is it. I've never felt more sure in my entire life(too bad I just realized it now, but oh well!) I've learned to leave the past hurts, wrong decisions and failures and trust God wholeheartedly.God truly works wonders. And thankfully, my parents fully support me and you know the best part is I found a medical school that would give me 100% scholarship! To be honest, if it wasn't for that, I'll be having major doubts since I don't want to burden my parents any further. So now, I'm currently looking for a job so that I could help with the expenses once the new school year commences. I feel very fortunate for having a family who loves me unconditionally. Well, I hope this new chapter goes well and I'm so excited! Lastly, a quote by Thomas Edison, "Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time."

Day 21 of The October Daily Guest Post

So, enough about me. Today's prompt: Guest posting! and I exchanged questions with Nicole Empleo. She's a very sweet and accommodating and I love that we've loads in common - my favorite: we're both into fitness and healthy diet. We shared tips and tricks to achieve a sexy and fit body and I must admit she's such a pro! I'm so glad I was able to meet her through this challenge. So let's us proceed to her answers!

1. What gives you inspiration?

My family. My husband. My friends. They are the ones who push me through to be a better person. They always have my back whenever im down, and whenever i need them, they are always there. They are the one who knows the real me, yet still loves me unconditionally. My flaws, my mistakes, my descisions - right or wrong, they support me all the way. They always made me strive more. Because they know i can be better than i am right now. I wanna be the person they always said I would be. Thought not perfect, but the best. 

2. What book or movie that best describes how you view life.

Fireproof. It describes my relationship with my husband when we're still in boyfriend and girlfriend stage. I wouldn't wanna spill how and what the movie is all about. You just have to find that out on yourself. Its a MUST WATCH. 

3. Give us 5 beauty products that you cant live without.

Facial wash, moisturizer, johnsons baby powder, mascara, eyeliner

4. What profession have you always admired?

Hospitality management in any form of service. We are forced to entertained and go with the "costumer is always right" and to put up with other peoples bullshit when we really doesnt have to. Okay so we have to, but we're human and sometimes things are getting out of control. We just can't smile and give you polite answers (we dont know) when we personally having our own dillemas too. Ya know! We are humans too. Lol. I know hospitality graduates can relate to this.. Or not! :)))

5. Where you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

Europe. Because for one reason, it has always been my dream.

What's Inside My Bag

Day 20 of The October Daily

A notebook and pen

Minicci wallet

Pink rosary

Cellphone ~ Blackberry

Moisturizer ~ Nivea Creme

Lipbalm ~ Carmex and Maybelline Babylips

Lipstick ~ MAC Creme Cup

The Sunday Currently, vol. 4

C  U  R  R  E  N  T  L  Y  .  .  .  

R E A D I N G Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella. I'm almost half way through it and I find it delightfully witty and entertaining! I wanted something light and funny to read, after finishing Looking For Alaska yesterday, and this book is perfect.

W R I T I N G  my plans for next year. Finally, I've decided to pursue something completely different and worthwhile - a medical degree. Yes, I'm gonna go back to uni next year and I'm so excited for this new chapter in my life.

L I S T E N I N G to my brother playing River flows in you by Yiruma on the piano.

T H I N K I N G about baking brownies and crinkles. I found this brownie mix sitting inside our cupboard, perfect for lazy days.

S M E L L I N G my mom's freshly brewed coffee.

W I S H I N G I could fast forward to next year, I'm super excited!

H O P I N G  and P R A Y I N G that things would turn out well with regards to my future endeavors. I thank the Lord for enlightenment.

W E A R I N G a blue t-shirt with the word "Zumba" printed on it and white shorts.

L O V I  N G this peaceful feeling. When I told my parents about my plans on going back to uni, they were fully supportive of my decision which made me so happy. As for now, I'm going to find a job so I could save up for school expenses. Also, our new internet connection(with 5 mbps) has been set up earlier! Hooray for fast torrent downloads!!

W A N T I N G a choco-butternut donut and brewed coffee from Dunkin Donuts

N E E D I N G some pretty notebooks and colorful pens. 

F E E L I N G happy and peaceful and contented.

C L I C K I N G youtube videos by Michelle Phan. Loving the super fast streaming!!

God bless! :) Join us us in The Sunday Currently Link-up

I believe...

Day 19 of The October Daily Something I believe in

I'll just keep this post short and simple - consisting of quotes which I strongly believe in.

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This too shall pass.

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“We need never be hopeless because we can never be irreparably broken.” –John Green

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“If you have made mistakes, there is always another chance for you. You may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing we call “failure” is not the falling down, but the staying down.” –Mary Pickford

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“Something wonderful begins to happen with the simple realization that life, like an automobile, is driven from the inside out, not the other way around. As you focus more on becoming more peaceful with where you are, rather than focusing on where you would rather be, you begin to find peace right now, in the present. Then, as you move around, try new things, and meet new people, you carry that sense of inner peace with you. It’s absolutely true that, “Wherever you go, there you are.” — Richard Carlson

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“Don’t mire up in self despair of your losses, learn from them and move on to other good things in life. Don’t stop allowing the sunshine in because of the fear that winter will come and engulf the warmth. Hold it close to you to help you through those cold winter days.” — Belinda Taylor

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“Don’t struggle so much, the best things happen when not expected.” — Gabriel Garcí­a Márquez

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" You don't set up to build a wall. You don't say 'I'm going to build the biggest, baddest, greatest wall that's ever been built.' You don't start there. You say, "I'm going to lay this brick as perfectly as a brick can be laid." You do that every single day. And soon you have a wall.
- Will Smith

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"Have a little more faith that the universe has it figured out."

"Things didn’t work out because, well, greater things were in the works. It’s so difficult while we’re blind and hurting and don’t know which way is up. But, if you have faith in anything, have faith in the fact that the universe has a beautiful way of straightening things out far better than we ever could. You may not see it today or tomorrow, but you will look back in a few years and be absolutely perplexed and awed by how every little thing added up and brought you somewhere wonderful– or where you always wanted to be. You will be grateful that things didn’t work out the way you once wanted them to."

- Brianna Wiest

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"We will all face disappointment many times in our life. We were never promised everything we want or an easy life. We live in a broken world and that is not possible. In fact, Psalms tells us “the righteous person may have many troubles” (Psalm 34:19).

However, you can rest assured that even though you didn’t get what you wanted, God is with you and will never forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6). In fact, He will still use that disappointing situation for your good (Romans 8:28)."

Three Scents

Day 18 of The October Daily Scents

Today's prompt got me thinking for quite a while since there are so many scents that popped into my head, which are all quite special to me. In the end, I decided to stick with the ones which has made the longest impression on me. The power of smell is truly powerful as it can unlock forgotten memories, hit you with waves of nostalgia, trigger emotional memories since smell and memory are closely linked, all of which are backed up by science.

1. Pine trees in Baguio City

- Baguio City is a popular destination, for both the local and international traveler, in the Philippines and it is called "The Summer Capital of the Philippines". It is a highland retreat in the Northern part of the Philippines its crisp cold climate, foggy hills, pine trees, panoramic views and lovely flowers. Since I was a kid, we would visit the place every year with my whole family; back then we were still complete, all eight of us siblings plus our parents. There are so many fond memories in that special place and the lovely scent of pine trees in the cool air triggers those happy moments with my family - lovely conversations by the fireplace, horseback riding, strawberry picking, sleeping in a bedroom bundled up together, picnics and camping, sightseeing, visiting cozy restaurants and coffee shops, and other leisure activities. Nowadays, we never go out on trips as a whole since most of my siblings have already moved away with their own family but this particular scent brings forth a rush of vivid memories from those times, making them more intense.

2. Dolce and Gabanna Light Blue

- This is my signature scent, and it never failed on any occasion, day or night, summer or cold months. It reminds me of my early teens when mom bought me a bottle for my birthday and I instantly fell inlove with it. It's such a pleasant, citrusy, fresh scent and the name comes in my favorite color too!

3. Baby-back ribs

- My mom cooks the best ribs in the world(I swear!), it rivals the ribs of famous restaurants like Rack's and Chili's. She has perfected the recipe with years of studying and passion for cooking. Whenever my mom cooks this - usually during special occasions like Christmas, birthdays and reunions - the delicious aroma would fill the entire house and surely it is enough to whet your appetite. 

Goals and Plans

Day 16 of The October Daily Goals for the future

Lately, I've been reading a lot of inspiring and motivational articles specifically for 20 something individuals like me and I'd like to share a website which has helped me a great deal. It tackles the challenges and struggles of people in their 20's in a profound yet humorous way and you can find so many nuggets of wisdom in there, just take your time and explore it! There are so many lessons and new insights to be gained and I urge you to check it out here. And with a new found inspiration, I've decided to organize my bucket list before I turn 25 and this is going to be a realistic and achievable one. I think this prompt couldn't be more timely as I need gain more perspective on the future.

1. Settle down in Sydney or London

2. Cook a full-course meal(soup, salad, meat, dessert) complete with a nice table setting for my family

3. Host a reunion for my college friends

4. Learn how to drive

5. Practice yoga and run at least 3 times a week
6. Go mountain climbing or nature tripping
7. Join the goodreads reading challenge every year
8. Run a marathon (or some kind of endurance race)
9. Go on a mission or humanitarian aid trip
10. Find a job that I love
11. Master the art of baking French macarons (I'm relying on David Lebovitz to teach me)
12. Tick off some of the items on my Bucket List and Wish List

13. Keep a gratitude journal and quote library
14. Own a recipe box where I can place all my tried and tested recipes
15. Cook/Bake 15 recipes from my collection of Food Network and Yummy magazines

“I think that we are like stars. Something happens to burst us open; but when we burst open and think we are dying; we’re actually turning into a supernova. And then when we look at ourselves again, we see that we’re suddenly more beautiful than we ever were before.” 

C. JoyBell C.

Sometimes I have to remind myself.

Word

Day 15 of The October Daily Favorite Word

As cliche at it may sound, I love the idea of traveling the world, whether I travel the world and go to the places I want to go all at once or spend my lifetime taking holiday trips to amazing places, I'm determined to travel as much as I possibly can before my time is up. I'll do whatever it takes to make this dream a reality. Soaking up the culture, witnessing the busy atmosphere, cities and markets alongside high-end stores, tasting delectable homemade dishes, discovering off the beaten paths and hole in the wall restaurants and bookstores, seeing places of high historical and religious value of each and every country I visit. It all sounds wonderful. My ideal journey would involve traveling to places like Tokyo, Paris, London, New York, Sydney, Venice, Las Vegas, Barcelona and Rome.

Other words that I love: