Counting My Days

Good News or Bad News? I got a call today from the Czech Embassy that my Schengen Visa has been granted. I am not so sure if I am happy about the news. In a month, I will be leaving the Philippines for a year-long internship in the Czech Republic. A part of me is excited to once again step foot in a foreign country, soak up some culture and meet a new bunch of friends. But then another part of me is also sad that I would leave my career at this point in my life. I finally found a career in the financial services industry and everything has been going preeeeeettty well.

In a span of two months, my life has taken a 360-degree turn! I could still clearly remember last May when I found out that my ATM only had 600 pesos in it. Today, I could finally afford to buy some of the things I want. Plus, I have paid off the debts I incurred from my sister. Moreover, I have helped out my parents in some of our home renovation expenses.

Am I ready to leave this exciting chapter in my life? Should I go to Czech Republic? Should I just stay and continue what I am doing? 

On another note, I read Paulo Coelho's book "The Zahir" recently and this particular line struck me : 

Under Construction

Like I said in my previous entry, I am back in my hometown. These days, I am very busy supervising the renovation of our new home. I volunteered for this job because I am very OC when it comes to these things. We expect to finish everything on the 31st of July in time for my sister's homecoming. My favorite part of the house is our multi-purpose room. I can't wait to decorate these shelves with books and picture frames.

Camiguin Escapade

Last July 15 to 18, my college friends Guillain, Esther, Trisha and Mina, visited me in my hometown, Cagayan de Oro. I showed them around the city and likewise brought them to Camiguin Island. On our first night, we had gelato at Missy Bon Bon. The following day, we rode the ferry to Camiguin Island and had a yummy seaside lunch upon our arrival. We were billeted at Bahay Bakasyunan. Our villa was so cozy!

Our first stop was Katibawasan Falls located at the foot of Mt. Timpoong. The water was so cold and to think this was not yet the actual Cold Spring. Afterwards we visited the Guiob Church ruins near the Sunken Cemetery. 

College is over. We are absolutely FREE.

On our third day, we went to White Island. The shape of the island differs depending on the tide. The picturesque Mt. Hibok-Hibok and Mt. Vulcan can be seen from the island. We really enjoyed our short stay in the island. It was so relaxing!

Our pretty view at Bahay Bakasyunan.

Piolo Craze

Two days ago, I was at the Cultural Center of the Philippines to attend my company's third quarter sales kick-off. As a newbie, I didn't know what to expect in such events. The theme was running. Even the bigwigs in the company were in running attire. 

I got the surprise of my life when Piolo Pascual showed up before the event ended. I knew that he is the company's newest endorser but I never thought that he'll be part of the event. Our host, Issa Litton, interviewed him onstage. Most of the crowd went gaga over him!