My 30th at Concordia

It's been 12 years since I last visited Concordia Children's Services, an orphanage in Sta. Mesa, Manila. It was part of our community service for our Religion class back in college.

For my 30th birthday, I decided to celebrate it with family, friends and loved ones at this same place where I once met a baby named Melody. Melody is fortunate enough to have been adopted by caring parents who now live a good life in Italy.

In that short span of time, I was happy to see the children and their caregivers take a break from their usual routine. I was happy to see smiles on the faces of my friends who were carrying children they had just met. These children held their arms up even to strangers, seeking warmth and love in their embrace. I pray that someday these children will find a family where they belong and will grow to be good individuals in the society.

I would like to thank everyone who shared their day and gave donations for the children of Concordia. Your friendship made that day really special. :)

*** Concordia Children's Services is a non-government organization. It is managed by a group of individuals with the help of volunteers. They survive on a day to day basis via donations. The house they are currently occupying is for sale. They have nowhere to go or transfer yet. If you wish to visit them, they are located at 4600 Old Sta. Mesa St. Sampaloc, Metro Manila, Philippines. Telephone No: 713-3462

Goodbye 2011/ Hello 2012

In just a few days, we'll be saying goodbye to 2011. It brought good memories to cherish and lessons learned. Here's what this year has taught me:

1. You can't always get what you want. But as one friend reminds me, it's just a slip, not a fall.
2. You can't please everybody, so why bother. Just do what needs to be done.
3. It's alright to show one's weakness. Sometimes it's where you find strength.
4. Taking chances means running the risk of getting hurt. But you won't know unless you try.
5. Appreciate people who come into your life. Their presence has its purpose.
6. Happiness is a choice.
7. Diet = Discipline
8. Savor the moment. Otherwise, the moment just passes you by.
9. Settle the past so you can live the present and look forward to the future.
10. No to over-analyzing. It is potentially damaging.

I am grateful for the blessings I heve received this year. I am looking forward to a better year ahead. Hello 2012! Happy New Year everyone. Cheers!

My 20 (Favorite Things)

I was at the clinic earlier today and was reading an old Healthy Options newsletter. The editor listed twenty of his favorite things and that psyched me to create a list of my own. In no particular order, here goes:

1. ARK (acts of random kindness)

2. Good coffee

3. Pleasant scents: citrus, eucalyptus, spa scent, freshly cut flowers, pancakes

4. Afternoon nap/ good night's sleep

5. Sense of humor

6. Good conversation

7. The Arts: Fashion, movies, theater, books

8. Massage

9. Peace of mind/Worry-free state

10. Adrenaline rush/feeling you get after exercising

11. Inspiring and being inspired

12. Tinted moisturizer

13. Travel

14. Imagination

15. Hugs and Kisses

16. Quality time

17. SALE

18. Things i keep because of sentimental value

19. Water

20. Christmas!

Errol + Tin

A few years ago, Medicine Intern Tin met then -2nd year Surgery resident Errol at the Manila Doctors Hospital. Theirs was a hospital romance in bloom. According to the bride, it was a colorful beginning. She thought Errol might be the typical ‘babaero’. But as time would prove, Errol’s persistence, thoughtfulness and sweetness won her over. He volunteered to assist during the surgery of Tin’s dad, gave very good post-op care, and free food for the ‘bantay’ everyday. Tin’s mom suggested they invite to dinner the kind doctor who checks on them everyday. Tin looked at the chart and it was filled with Errol’s handwriting. The groom started visiting Tin at their house and after two years, ‘I’ became ‘Us’ and ‘Me’ became ‘We’.

They were wed last March 12, 2011 at the Shrine of Jesus, the Way, the Truth and the Life in Pasay City. Tin wore a fully beaded princess cut dress by designer Edward Teng. She walked down the aisle with the angelic voices of the Hangad Church choir as background . Vibrant magenta with accent of turquoise blue was the wedding’s motif. The church and reception was styled by esteemed florist Teddy Manuel. Reception followed at the Golden Bay Restaurant in Macapagal Avenue. Guests from the US and relatives from Catanduanes flew in to attend the event. The couple had a surprise wedding dance number to the music of ‘You’re too good to be true’. Pre-nuptial photos taken at Tagaytay Highlands and snapshots of the event were captured by the lens of pro photographer Ariel Javelosa. The event was chronicled by Wang Video. Guests went home with photo souvenirs from BaiCapture. Christine Ong-Te was the couple’s wedding coordinator.

Despite being former chief residents in their respective fields, this couple knew by heart what it meant to work hard, party harder. They had two bands: Cross-over and Kadense, with the special participation of Dr Armando Crisostomo. Overflowing drinks were whisked to the guests’ tables as the music boomed louder and guests danced the night away.

The couple had their honeymoon at Asya Premiere Boracay and are expecting their firstborn.

Alvin + Tin

Photography enthusiast Tin and Timezone aficionado Alvin were introduced by the bride’s grand uncle more than 2 years ago. They started out as textmates and YM mates (if there is such a term). After several months, they started dating exclusively. They enjoyed watching movies, going on food trips, and playing Air Hockey at TimeZone. They officially became a couple in July 27, 2009. Their Ting Hun, formal engagement party was held last Feb. 13, 2011 at the Golden Dragon Restaurant in Subic.

Alvin and Tin exchanged I Do’s last May 15, 2011 at the Santuario de San Jose in Greenhills, San Juan. Guests from the US, Canada and China were in attendance. The beautiful bride walked down the aisle wearing a Zandra Lim gown. She carried a bouquet of pink ecuadorian roses by Arleen’s Blooms. The vibrant color of cherry blossoms became their wedding’s motif. Reception followed at Gloria Maris Greenhills where a lauriat, chinese tradition for a wedding feast was served.

Alvin and Tin entered the reception to the tune of Something Beautiful. The bride donned a second look with her romantically side swept long locks framing her face. The shy couple wore shades as they danced to the beat of Marry You by Bruno Mars. The strings of Juilliard trained violinist-friend Alfonso ‘Coke’ Bolipata entertained the guests. The event was caught in still life thru the lens of Smartshot Studios and Angelito Morales, Jr, the bride’s highschool friend.

Traditions observed: date and time were feng shui-ed, the couple didn’t see each other for a week, lead coins were sewn into the shoes and wedding gown, the lauriat.

The couple spent their honeymoon in Turkey.

When asked about their future plans, the bride answered: to take over the world…bwahahaha!!!!!

Now that’s what I call Double Happiness!

PJ + Malizza

PJ and Malizza first met during med school thru Mayda (PJ’s sister in law and Malizza’s friend). Sharing the same circle of friends would have them seeing each other in parties and events. They barely spoke to each other until probably early 2005 (internship). It was only a matter of time, circumstance and a common friend’s suggestion (Bingbing Co-Faustino) that they went out together. Both pursued their respective residency programs (PJ pursuing Internal Medicine in the US and Malizza pursuing Pediatrics in UST) while keeping in touch via phonecalls/skype/chat. They officially became a couple in August 2009.

PJ and Malizza became man and wife last Feb 19, 2011 at the Santuario de San Jose in Greenhills. The blushing bride’s intricately beaded gown and the groom’s barong were both made by Veluz. Members of the entourage wore Frankie de Leon creations in classic romantic shades of pink and navy blue. Flowers by Angel of Tropical Blooms gave a romantic, festive feel. Reception followed at the Isla Ballroom of the Edsa Shangri-la Hotel. The couple made their grand entrance with Bruno Mars belting out Marry You. Without warning, they stormed the dance floor. The surprised crowd cheered as the newlyweds danced to a special mix of What a Wonderful World and The Way You Make me Feel by Michael Jackson (which they only practiced 3x!). Guests were later serenaded by the UP Singing Ambassadors; strings by Bernie Pasamba. Pre-nup photos by Jeff and Lisa were shown during dinner. Jason Magbanua’s endearing on-site video captured the couple’s pure emotions.

The bride shares: I actually asked him (PJ) if he we was willing to dance after he proposed. Our rings have this engraved inside - Never doubt I love from Hamlet by Shakespeare.

PJ and Malizza spent their honeymoon at Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu and Amorita in Bohol. The couple is starting their new life in Singapore and is excitedly awaiting the arrival of their first-born.

Henri + Chandra

After twelve years and six months we're finally here! And the first thing I want to tell you is that it was worth the wait. You were worth the wait....These words were uttered by Chandra (in between tears/smile) as she gazed into Henri’s eyes. The crowd broke into laughter, tears, and merriment.
Henri and Chandra first met in their 2nd year of college at UP Manila. Both were taking BS Biology. Their love has seen them through college, medicine proper, internship and withstood the test of time and space.

They were wed last Nov 28, 2010 in a Christian ceremony officiated by Pastor Gammy Alba at the Coconut Palace Ballroom. Guests flew in from Canada, Bolivia and Indonesia. Chands wore an ecru gown designed by couturier Cecilio Abad. She carried a bouquet of pale pink peonies. The motif was chocolate brown and pale pink. Reception followed at the Coconut Palace poolside. Guests were ushered inside white tents with Martha Stewart/Rachel Ashwell shabby chic inspired table settings in candlelight. Guests were serenaded by the band Concertino as they enjoyed a sumptuous buffet dinner by K Cunanan catering.

The wedding had a fusion of both Chinese and Indian influences:
- vegetable samosas and mini chicken shawarmas were served during cocktails
- Chandra had mehndi done
- the date & time of the wedding were "feng shui-ed"
- a family friend’s daughter sang a Chinese wedding song

The couple danced to the melody of the French love song La Vie En Rose as beautiful sparkling Dragon fireworks took the sky. Guests went home with souvenir photos from Bai Capture. The friendly staff of TCP events made sure the wedding and proceedings were smooth-sailing. The couple’s special day was captured by the lens of family and friend photographers.

Henri and Chandra spent their honeymoon in Hongkong.

*Special thanks to Alric V. Mondragon and Jon Arcillas for the photos