MISTAKEN FOR LOVE ♥

He has a face that could turn heads. He stands at a towering height of five feet and 10 inches. He exudes confidence when he walks. He’s friendly and approachable, a lady’s man perhaps. He has this irresistible charm that you just can’t simply turn down.  He has an appeal that could draw every woman’s attention… and I wasn’t an exemption!

The first time I met him in the flesh was during one of their workshops. I was an intern at a productions company and he was one of the candidates of a male pageant that that certain company is organizing. The moment I’ve seen him I told myself, “The photo I have seen didn’t give justice to this fine creation of God standing in front of me! He’s far more attractive in person!” For a second I thought I won’t be able to get my eyes off this guy on a green polo shirt which highlighted his fair white skin and emphasized the good-looks he possess. And when we were introduced by one of my boss’ I was surprisingly amazed with how friendly and accommodating he was; then at that instant I developed a thing for him called… CRUSH.

From then on, I can’t help but get excited every time I see him. It feels like I’m a love-struck high school girl once again! It seems like my chinky eyes would suddenly transform into a pair of heart-shaped eyes every time he looks at me when we talk. I don’t want to sound like I’m another whining, low self-esteemed girl but never in my wildest dreams have I imagined that a guy as gorgeous as him would waste any of his time nor attention to a girl like me.

I mean HELLO?! What’s there to complain right? This is exactly what I have hoped to happen; for him to at least spare me even a millisecond of his time. And yes, I wouldn’t deny it! I love the attention he’s given me! I feel like I was the prettiest girl in the world every time he lends me those coveted time of his. It’s indisputably OVERWHELMING for me.

It was overwhelming, too overwhelming in fact to the point of having mistaken his friendship for something else. I thought he could like me, fall for me if not. He was an epitome of my modern-day prince charming… and I’m the damsel in distress that he has come for to be saved and protected.

 I became so caught up with my admiration for him that my sense of reasoning was overpowered by my emotions. My reality was clouded by my self-made fantasies. My logic was blocked with my careless impulses. For the first time in my life, I went after something I want without paying that much attention to what others might say. For the first time in my life I’ve learned to let go of my worries, I’ve learned to take the risk, I’ve learned to gather up my courage and fight for what I thought would make me happy… and then I woke up!

I finally came across reality and realized I wasn’t Cinderella after all.  I was just an ordinary girl with an extraordinary imagination. I found out that he was somebody else’s prince, not mine. I was just his confidante, nothing more and nothing less. And surprisingly, it feels good to leave things that way. I’ve accepted that fact wholeheartedly; no regrets, bitterness nor whatsoever.

I may not have a “happily ever after” ending with him but still I believe ours was a happy ending. He became one of my precious collections; we became friends, we remained GOOD FRIENDS. I guess I have just mistaken the friendship for something else, something like… LOVE; but I knew better now.

xoxo,


Mae =)

FEATURE WRITING CLASS : persOnal experience (remedial work)

THE PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE

By: Maelette O. Masbate

 

             “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit”, the famous Philosopher, Aristotle, once said.

 

            I’m a low-maintenance kind of person, an average student to be specific. Getting a passing grade is more than enough for me. Though I always tried to avoid having a failing mark, I never whine nor agonize about receiving a grade lower than 2.5… but that was long before; back when I was still struggling to become the next Florence Nightingale; and when I was still pompously wearing my dirt-free, all-white uniform going on shifts from one community and or hospital to another.

            But ever since I decided to relocate my search for knowledge and changed my career path from being a ‘life-saver’ to being a ‘life-giver’ like Shakespeare or Marilyn Monroe perhaps, I then began to seek and strive for excellence. After my period of adjustment as a new-comer in the University, I have ascertained that I too can get good grades, better grades in fact, if only I would strive harder and believe in myself that I can really do it.

            I know that it’s not impossible for me to achieve my goals, that’s the reason why I never gave up on my self. True enough, after three semesters of almost reaching the cut-off average, on my second semester of my second year as a Mass Com student, I finally found my name on the ever famous ‘Dean’s List’ (DL). I know for some it doesn’t make any difference or it’s just out of the ordinary, but for me it had been one of my life’s crowning glories. From then on, I never stopped my hunt for fineness and thanks to the guidance of my great man up there, my God; I have been a consistent Dean’s Lister.

            Some people would ask me why I’m doing such, like trying the best I can to stay on top, and without having to think deeply I would answer them in an instant, “This is the only way for me, as of now, to return and give back all the things, material or not, my parents have provided and done for me ever since the first day of my existence.” Although in a way my being a DL gives me self-satisfaction and helps me in boosting up my morale as well, but more than that, the pride and joy that I can see on my parents’ eyes every time I tell them the good news is way better and sweet than any achievement in the world there is. The feeling is like winning a million-dollar lottery times ten!

            There’s this depressing side of being above the average though, sometimes it gets too strenuous and heartbreaking. Since they’ve gotten used with the idea, it seems natural for them for you to get good grades; like you’re expected to be the best because they believe that you’re the best. My parents might not have pressured me through words but the trust and confidence they’ve placed on me is more than enough to shake me and pushed me to finish what I’ve started.

            But then again, no matter how fervent I am in giving back my parents what they deserve; I still believe that what I am going to do with my life solely depend on me. Even though I can get caught up with making sure I have no failing grades at times, but still I know how to have fun and be crazy sometimes. Remember, I was once a low-maintenance person, I can always pay a visit to the old me once in a while (except with the quality of work though, hehehhehe…)!

           

xoxo,


Mae =)

           

FEATURE WRITING CLASS : descriptive feature (remedial work)

AMBASSADOR FRANCISCO L. BENEDICTO MASSCOM STUDIO:

More Than Just A Studio

By: Maelette O. Masbate

 

            The newly-hatched chicks are placed inside an incubator so they may be cared for suitably; plants and or other floral species are enclosed in a glass house, particularly known as the greenhouse in order for them to be cultivated and nurtured accordingly; soldiers on the other hand, are also asked to live in a boot camp so as for them to be trained and molded as they should be. 

Therefore, every life-form, may it be the littlest creature or the most humongous specie, needs a place to stay; not just for them to have a cover over their heads, but also for them to be watched over and for them to acquire, learn and eventually master their skills and talents. Thus, this serves as the main purpose of the Mass Com Studio’s (MS) existence: to be the training ground for future journalists, broadcasters, directors, event managers and media practitioners.

BLAST FROM THE PAST

            According to Mr. Albert Maxino, a Mass Com Instructor in the University, “The old Mass Com studio along with the campus station, the DYAR, was built on 1987 through the efforts of Dr. Milagros Espina, the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at that time. The studio was donated by Ambassador Francisco L Benedicto who happens to be an alumnus of the University and a very close friend of Dr. Espina as well.”

MOVING FORWARD

Just last February 9, 2009 the newly-renovated Mass Com studio was inaugurated and is now named as, AMBASSADOR FRANCISCO L. BENEDICTO MASSCOM STUDIO. It was named after Ambassador Benedicto since he is the main benefactor of the said studio.

As what is stated on the official website of USJ-R, “These state-of-the art TV studio and campus radio station are dubbed as “the first” of their kind in the Mass Communication schools in Cebu.  Dean, Dr. Teoddie B. Dumam-ag believes that these modern facilities provide MassCom students a taste of the on-the-job training prior to their internship to the different media outlets. With its multi-million equipment, the Mass Com studio gives the students more opportunities to become experts in video production and skills in radio broadcasting and management. “

COMPARABLY INCOMPARABLE

            In order to further enhance and develop the students’ knowledge and skills (the Mass Com students to be specific) and to catch up with the revolution of modern facilities, the studio was refurbished and modernized. Thus the once undersized Mass Com studio has now doubled its size and equipments.

To further illustrate the difference of the new and the old MS, I tried to interview some students and some Mass Com alumni who were and are able to benefit and use both the old and new Mass Com studio. Obviously, the innovative recent Mass Com studio was remarkable to all of them, but still let us try to see what they have to say though.

            “The old Mass Com studio doesn’t have any T.V, now it has, and take note, it is flat screen! Another thing is that, the new MS already have lights wherein we can use during class presentations”, Jinalyn Garcia, a Liacom student shared.

            “It is way better than our classroom before because it seems like the room before is close to “ruins”. Now the studio is more ‘techy’ and you can actually say it’s a MASSCOM STUDIO rather than the once we had during our time, and in fairness the studio is now carpeted”, Yvain Elsie, a Mass Com alumna explained.

            “There’s nothing to compare about them! The newly-renovated Mass Com studio is far way better than the old MS. The space is now bigger though I think that the place doesn’t serve its purpose well. The studio must not be used as a classroom, it’s a laboratory. A room there serves as a TV production room, so why held classes there?”, Jynx Chanjueco, a Liacom student and SSC vice-president stated.

            “The MS now is superior to the old one. With the new amenities that can be found in the renovated DYAR in particular, it’s more ‘techy’. During our time, the DYAR have limited audience (students and teachers) inside the school vicinity; while now DYAR has an extensive reach and you can still get hooked with it using the internet, through Stickam. Even if you are not from San Jose, you can still hear the broadcasted shows over the internet”, Clyde Maru, a Mass Com alumnus compared in details.

            “Of course it’s better now. Equipments are improved although the lighting inside the MS is just focused on one side, the front in particular, so the space will not be utilized since we can’t shoot a scene on the other side. But it’s all improved than before, performance and equipment wise, it is a great investment for masscom. However, if you’ll ask us, the alumni’s, I guess what makes the old MS special is what we used to have there, the memories and all”, Cherie Ann Gozon, a Masscom alumna recalled.

            “Compared to the old MS, the new MS is more innovative in terms of technologies and more neat and spacious while the old one was too tiny that the students had trouble walking around without bumping at each other. The facilities were scarce and it did not meet the high standards of the outside stations such as the radio station and the newsroom for they had no budget then”, Lala Llopes, a fourth year Mass Com student sited.

CLOSE TO PERFECT

            No matter how flawless a certain thing or a person appears to be, it is undeniable that they still remain imperfect. Same as with the modernized MS; it may seemed upgraded and updated all the way, but still there are certain features and aspects that were overlooked about it.

As what Jynx mentioned, there are times that the studio doesn’t serve its purpose. Like the DYAR recording booth for example, this is supposed to be intended for students enrolled in the subject Radio Broadcasting and Management, however, there are instances that students who are not enrolled in the said subject would come in the DYAR laboratory to do their recordings and all.

In fact other students old or new have also noticed certain flaws and dilemma brought about by the new studio. Cherie Gozon, a Mass Com alumna even tried to give some suggestions with regards to certain issues on the new MS and its facilities. Here are the things she has to say about it:

 

1.    They still have to improve more the new MS.

2.    Students would have full training regarding the proper use of the equipments

3.    Let the students use the equipments and not just store/display them.

4.    I hope they will not use the Mass Com studio as an AVR, or conduct seminars. It should serve its special purpose as MASS COM STUDIO, not as an AVR or something. It may sound selfish but it was made for it so it should be use for it as well.

BEYOND THE STUDIO

            Although at times it is misused, the Mass Com studio has been serving its purpose to the students and faculty since time in memorial. So it is just irrefutable to say that the MS had not only been a place for learning but it has also been a valued witness to all the memories build and created by its occupants (students and teachers that is).

            Being one of the “tenants” in the MS, I too was able to make tons of unforgettable memories inside it. Some are quite remarkable and can surely put a smile or two on my face every now and then; others may not be so fond; and a few of those memories are in a way heart-warming.

            Now, let us try to reminisce together and find out what are the memoirs, cherished or not, some of the students have had during their stay in the studio.

“It was during our DYAR, all throughout the semester, our batch really helped one another to make DYAR productive. You can visibly see the teamwork”, Lala gladly shared.

“MS became not only the place wherein we can learn, but it had also been the place where me and my batch mates would hang-around and bond together. It’s like a classroom though it’s really not. You can find anything there: drama, clatter and fun”, Yvain cheerfully recalled.

            “Usually, especially if the teachers’ are not around, the studio is transformed into a comedy bar! It’s not like the other subjects wherein we would stay out of the classroom if teachers won’t come. In MS, though there are no teachers, we stay inside because we know that we’ll have a different ‘learning’ encounter with our classmates. Even though sometimes it’s for mere fun but still you can get something out of it as well. We would only stay out of the MS once the READS would ask us to do so. Other than fun, it is also where we were able to learn to be disciplined as Mass Com students with Ms. Bangcong and Mrs. Cerna; two of our Masscom professors who were able to control our batch since there are only a few of them who can totally hush us. There are times that we would convert the Mass Com studio as a comedy bar, dance floor, theater stage, convenient store (since some of my classmates are selling some things), debate room, music room and others, depending on where our imagination, talents and antics would take us”, Cherie gleefully reminisce. “Another thing, there is that certain calendar in the MS before with the large name of ‘MARIVIC TIDALGO’ printed on it. Clyde, one of our classmates, would usually make fun and talk to that calendar until eventually, that calendar became a part of us. We don’t really have any idea if that person is still living or not, and so when Dr. Teoddie heard about that, he told us that Marivic is still alive. During our seminar class, we insisted Dr. Teoddie to allow us to meet Marivic in person; but since she can’t come over she instead send us tons of Dunkin Donuts and everyone was delighted about it. After which Dr. Teoddie called Marivic and we send our thank yous over the phone. Marivic Tidalgo by the way is a friend of Dr. Teoddie”, she enjoyably added.

SPOOKY SIDE

            Since Halloween is fast approaching, let me first share to you the creepy stories I have heard from some of my fellow Mass Com students’, before finally ending my article.

            As what they have said (the previous batch), there’s an urban legend in that studio, the old studio to be exact, about this certain child staying there. In fact, they tagged that child as, ‘BATA SA MS’. They said that the child would usually sit on any vacant chair that is why they don’t leave any sits there vacant. One of them also shared that a classmate of theirs who happens to have a third eye, saw that child roaming around the Mass Com studio while they were having their classes. There was also this instance when some of them made a joke about that child and suddenly, that classmate of them who had a third eye started crying because she saw the child sitting beside those people who made fun of the child.

            My classmate Gerard, who also has this third eye told me that he have seen this child as well. He said that the child is still staying in the MS up until now. As a matter of fact, he would usually go out of the room every time he sees the child. He said that this child loves to play around the room, or hide inside the editing room or under the teacher’s table. He said that most of the time the child would stay under the teacher’s table showing only his/her bare feet.  He added that there are times too that the child would sit beside on one of our classmates and would just stay there staring at him/her.

            …Scared? Anyway, before we all get spooked and scared with that child inside the MS I guess I have to end my article now.

            I think we have to admit that no matter how many flaws we might spot about the MS, still it have been in a way of great help to us, especially to my fellow Mass Com students. We have not only acquired new knowledge and skills inside the studio, but most importantly we have gained friends… we have gained family.

xoxo,


Mae =)

FEATURE WRITING CLASS : number feature

8 MUST-SEE ROMANTIC COMEDY MOVIES

by: Maelette O. Masbate

 

"If you love someone you say it. You say it right then. Out loud. Or the moment just passes you by."

Sounds familiar right? To some movie enthusiast, for sure you’ve recognized this quote. This is a line from the romantic comedy movie My Best Friend’s Wedding starring no less than Julia Roberts as Julliane Potter and Dermot Mulroney as Michael O’Neal.

Romantic Comedy movies have been popular in the movie industry particularly in Hollywood for quite some time now. Some of these movies are top-grossing films which only proved that people do patronize and watch them, not just by the female populace but the male species as well.

What does Romantic Comedy really mean? According to bookrags.com, “Romantic Comedy films are movies with light-hearted, humorous dramatic stories, centered around romantic ideals such as a ‘true love’ able to surmount most obstacles or the ‘perfect couple’. Romantic comedy films are a sub-genre of comedy films as well as of romance films.”

The plot of a Romantic Comedy may not be as intense and complicated as the sci-fi movies, as grotesquely hilarious as the comedy films, nor it is a tear-jerker like the drama movies but still has gotten and can still get the viewers attention.

So to those who wants to be in love and laugh at the same time and to those who merely wants to go and have a movie marathon here are some of my suggested romantic comedy films that you must see:

 

1.    PRETTY WOMAN - Vivian Ward (Julia Roberts) has found a way of living by working as a prostitute on Hollywood Boulevard . When she runs into the prince of her dreams, who comes along on his wild horse, she first does not recognize him as her savior. The prince, a ruthless and wealthy businessman by the name of Edward Lewis (Richard Geere), does not know that she could be more than just a girl from the sidewalk, but he changes his decision after the first night with the beautiful stranger. Her being the first person in a long time who could surprise him, Edward can slowly feel the light at the end of the tunnel. He is on his way to become a better person, whereas Vivian has got a new chance to start over again.

WHY WATCH IT: Pretty Woman is one of the best and timeless romantic comedy movies ever made in Hollywood . The film doesn’t only fire-up the hopes of the hopeless romantics out there, but it can also make the people realize that indeed it isn’t wise to judge a person base on the kind of living he or she has; that just because his or her work is against the norms of the society, he or she is already consider less than a human. -Kayin

2.    50 FIRST’S DATES- Henry Roth (Adam Sandler) lives in a Hawaiian paradise with the company of endless women with no strings attached. This is until he meets Lucy Whitmore (Drew Barrymore). Both Henry and Lucy enjoy the company of each other and feels the start of a serious relationship occurring. Approaching Lucy the next day, Henry is confused when Lucy fails to recognize him. This is the moment Henry discovers that Lucy actually suffers from short term memory loss and can't remember each individual day. Henry won't let this stop him and is prepared to make her fall in love with him all over again, each and every day.

WHY WATCH IT: “Nothing beats the first kiss!” Who would ever forget Drew Barrymore’s famous line in this movie? The film didn’t only left me laughing with all those crazy antics of Rob Schnider, who happens to be Adam Sandler’s best friend in this movie, but the film also left me weeping in my seat. Who wouldn’t shed a tear for this remarkable and one-of-a-kind movie? This film surely is worth watching today and the day after that and the day after that… -Mae

THE UGLY TRUTH- A romantically challenged morning show producer (Katherine Heigl) is reluctantly embroiled in a series of outrageous tests by her chauvinistic correspondent (Gerard Butler) to prove his theories on relationships and help her find love. His clever ploys, however, lead to an unexpected result.

WHY WATCH IT: “The characters were like cats and dogs. The guy was the epitome of pervert and a brute all wrapped in one while the girl was manipulative, perfectionist and a romantic. But despite their being the total opposites; criticizing each other's weaknesses, somewhere along the way; they found true happiness in each other's arms.” - Lala

3.    MAID IN MANHATTAN- Marisa Ventura (Jennifer Lopez) is a single mother born and bred in the boroughs of New York City , who works as a maid in a first-class Manhattan hotel. By a twist of fate and mistaken identity, Marisa meets Christopher Marshall (Ralph Fiennes), a handsome heir to a political dynasty, who believes that she is a guest at the hotel. Fate steps in and throws the unlikely pair together for one night. When Marisa's true identity is revealed, the two find that they are worlds apart, even though the distance separating them is just a subway ride between Manhattan and the Bronx .

WHY WATCH IT: This might be just another modern Cinderella or the usual poor-girl-meets-rich-guy story with a twist, but this movie surely did catch my attention. Despite the simplicity of the movie’s plot, it was still able to etched and leave some good impression to the viewers. Marisa Ventura definitely can again sing “I’m coming out...”

4.    HOW TO LOSE A GUY IN 10 DAYS - Benjamin Barry (Matthew McConaughey) is an advertising executive competing with two female co-workers for a major campaign for a diamond merchant. He cuts a deal with his competitors that the account is his if he can make a woman of their choice fall in love with him in 10 days. In comes Andie Anderson (Kate Hudson) who, in turn, is writing a story on how to lose a guy in 10 days as a bet with her boss to be allowed to write more substantial stories. With a hidden agenda in each camp, will either party be able to complete their mission?

WHY WATCH IT: This film is a very concrete example of “Having a taste of your own medicine!” Both the main characters’ hidden scheme backfired and instead ended up messing both their lives and consequently their hearts as well. But luckily they were able to fix their differences and recognized their own flaws and eventually found their way back into each other’s arms ones again.

5.    27 DRESSES - Two things about Jane (Katherine Heigl): she never says no to her friends (she's been a bridesmaid 27 times and selflessly plans friends' weddings), and she's in love with her boss, George, nurturing dreams of a lovely, romantic wedding of her own. She meets Kevin, a cynical writer who finds her attractive, and that same week her flirtatious younger sister Tess comes to town. Jane silently watches George fall for Tess, a manipulative pretender. Worse, Jane may be called upon to plan their wedding. Meanwhile, Kevin (James Marsden) tries to get Jane's attention and has an idea that may advance his career. Can Jane uncork her feelings?

WHY WATCH IT: Love indeed comes to you when you least expect it. Just like Jane who always sees her self being in the arms of her boss but instead ended up marrying Kevin who made her open her eyes to reality. This just goes to show that sometimes, the person whom we thought is the right one for us may not actually be the right one for us. - Belle

6.    JUST LIKE HEAVEN- Elizabeth Masterson (Reese Witherspoon), a dedicated doctor in San Francisco , had almost no time for anything. When her sister with two kids set her up on a date, she gets into a tragic car crash and gets in a coma. Meanwhile, an artist named David Abbott (Mark Ruffalo) moves into San Francisco and coincidentally, into Elizabeth 's apartment for rent. While at the apartment, Elizabeth 's spirit haunts him. She doesn't remember who she is, who her family is, and what she did - All that she remembered was her apartment and where everything was. To settle the arguments, David agrees to figure out who Elizabeth really is. When they get close to figuring out who she is, they eventually find love in each other and as they finally know who she really is, they learn that fate really has put them both together.

WHY WATCH IT: Indeed love goes beyond death, this movie proves it! Finding love even on the verge of death or shall we say, near-death in this case, is utterly remarkable. Logically speaking though this scenario may sound absurd and next-to-impossible but then again, who knows; love knows no boundaries they say. - Bamba

7.    SWEET HOME ALABAMA- Melanie Carmichael (Reese Witherspoon), an up and rising fashion designer in New York , has gotten almost everything she wished for since she was little. She has a great career and the JFK-like husband of New York City . But when he proposes to her, she doesn't forget about her family back down South - and, more importantly, her husband back there, who refuses to divorce her ever since she sent divorce paper for almost 5 years. To settle matters straight, she decides to go to the south quick and make him sign the papers. But when things don't turn out the way she planned them out, she realizes that what she had before in the south was far more perfect than the life she had in New York City .

WHY WATCH IT: I like how the story goes first, they got married at a very young age and then the guy doesn’t want to sign the divorce paper years later when the girl decided to divorce him to marry another guy. And after sometime they decided to give each other another chance and they were able to make it work. It really showed that if u really love someone no matter what happens you would really end up together. After all the storms that they’ve encountered like even though the girl really decided to give it all up, the guy still tried to hold on until the very end; he even showed her how much she loves her and what she would be missing if they wouldn’t be together. It was touching when no matter how she denies that she doesn’t love him anymore at the end love did prevail eventually. –Vain

So there you go, the eight must-see romantic comedy movies that you need to check out for yourselves, especially those who have not seen them. See for yourselves and find out how these movies could change your views on both love and humor. Let’s all fall in love and fall in laughter all at the same time.

*movie summaries source: IMDb (The Internet Movie Database)

xoxo,

Mae =) 

FEATURE WRITING CLASS : descriptive feature

San Remigio: The Rural Bliss

By: Maelette O. Masbate

 

“When I go out into the countryside and see the sun and the green and everything flowering, I say to myself Yes indeed, all that belongs to me!”  ~Henri Rousseau

What better way is there than to spend your soul-searching and stress-relieving activities on a sheltered and nurtured paradise somewhere in the north. Known to have the longest shore-line in Cebu , San Remigio is definitely the place to be. With just a two-hour drive away from the metropolis you can already experience the life away from all the hustle and bustle of the city. This hidden paradise do sure has a lot to offer not only to its natives but most especially to its patrons and first-time visitors.

Having my native roots in this place, I definitely can bear witness to how this silent sanctuary can make you appreciate more the life they have in the rural. Waking up in the mornings while listening to mother nature’s orchestra is the best way to stir you up from your dreams. While in the middle of the day, the perfect masterpiece of God would then behold in front of you like a valuable piece of art work in an art museum. When twilight arrives, the exquisite splendor of the setting sun will then make you marvel the mystery behind it. And when evening comes, you would then be dazzled with how amazing the nights can be with all those sparkling jewels covering the skies above.

To give you a more vivid picture of the splendor that lies behind this unparalleled place allow me to share my little adventures of the different places that I have been in San Remigio. To start things up, let me take you to the place where I made some of my child hood memories, the humble baranggay of Argawanon. This is the place wherein me and my other cousins spend our early mornings drinking hot chocolate and eating pandesal. When it’s time for us to take our bath, we would then go to a nearby deep well to have our shower. Since Facebook’s Yoville, Farm Town , Pet Society, Crazy Planet and the likes are still unborn during those times; so we spend our leisure time playing Hide-and-Seek, Slipper Game and all those other childhood Filipino games that are on their way to extinction as of the moment. Before we hit the sack later in the evening, me and my younger cousins would then lay outside my grandma and grandpa’s veranda making figures out of the stars above.

Another place that I have been in San Remigio that surely made me be pleased about mother earth is in baranggay Batad; this is where the family friend of my grandfather resides. One sunny morning, the family was invited to the house of this family friend of ours to take part in what they called as “gango” wherein they would try to get or “collect” fishes from the fish nets near the mangroves. This was my first time to be in waist-high sea water with an above-the-knee mud! I was both so nervous and excited during those times that I can’t help but let out a giggle from time to time. I was so excited seeing those fishes, crabs and other sea creatures that I knew would become our sumptuous meal in a little while. I was nervous at the same time because I was thinking what biting-creature I might come across with while being immersed on that muddy water. On that adventure, I was also able to experience maneuvering the “bangka” for my self; though the water was just enough to keep the boat afloat and my father was just near me while I did my “paddling stunts”. Aside from my chance to get acquainted with the sea, I was also able to try getting the fruits from the singuelas trees. Even though I wasn’t allowed to climb up high on the branches, but still I did enjoy and just satisfied myself eating and reaching out for the fruits of the easy-to-reach branches.

The next adventure I’m going to share is the one I had in Hard Rock Beach Resort in baranggay Victoria . I sure did enjoy the ride we had on the way to the said beach resort. The road there was like on that of a roller coaster, but it was a lot of fun though. The beach resort was in a way in resemblance to that of Dos Palmas in Palawan wherein they have some “floating cottages” as what is shown on T.V. I wasn’t able to try swimming in the pool though since we just happen to drop by to see the place and though I went back there after a year or so, still I wasn’t able to go swimming again because the weather was not that good when we arrived there. Maybe the next time I’ll be there would finally be my time to take a plunge into their pool.

Another nice place that I was able to visit was the Verdemar Golf Course. That was my first time to see a golf course up-close and personal! That is why the moment we stepped on the perfectly-manicured grass my younger cousins and I immediately went running around the golf course with our bare feet.  They also have a swimming pool there and of course, the white-sand covered beach.

Aside from the must-see and should be-visited places in San Remigio, another enjoyable occasion in the place is the town’s fiesta which is Celebrated every 16^th of May. This merry-making is one thing that you should not dare miss in this place especially now that they have made their festivity more fun by having their own festival, “The Lapyahan Festival”.

Apart from the breath-taking sceneries that San Remigio has to offer, they also have opulent sea foods that would surely satisfy your appetite and not to mention their local delicacies like bibingka.

Even though I have been going back and forth from the city to my father’s native town since I was young, but I do believe that San Remigio has still a lot more to offer to its locality and to its tourists as well. In fact, an existing renowned beach resorts that have been acknowledge by Cebu ’s local tourism is found here, the “San Remigio Beach Club”. I have never been there though but maybe, before the year ends I will be able to set foot on that place.

I bet you all now want to see for yourself this hidden paradise in the north, right? So if you have any future plans to pamper your self andget away from the city noise, or if you just want to relax and chill with your friends or loved ones, or if not, you just want to try a different place then I suggest you visit San Remigio. I guarantee you not only a silent sanctuary but also a perfect get away from all the mayhem that the urban-living brings.

xoxo,


Mae =)

FEATURE WRITING CLASS : How-tO feature

HOW TO HAVE GRACE UNDER PRESSURE

 by: Maelette O. Masbate

            Thesis. Internship. Projects. Personal Stuff. Family Matters. Social Life…

            What more could the fourth year college students ask for? Indeed the life of a senior in College requires not just his or her dedication but it also demands ones ample time and attention. With all these busy schedules and countless deadlines it is inevitable for us, soon-to-be graduates, to feel the pressure and experience stress. However we have to bear in mind that no matter how demanding and assiduous our undertakings could get at times, we have to remain on top and in control of our life. That is why I have decided to write this article so we may be reminded to still have the grace despite being under a massive pressure.

            Before giving you some tips, let us first define the word stress. What does stress mean? According to one of the definitions given by Dictionary.com stress is a mentally or emotionally disruptive or upsetting condition occurring in response to adverse external influences and capable of affecting physical health, usually characterized by increased heart rate, a rise in blood pressure, muscular tension, irritability, and depression.

            We also have two kinds of stress as stated by “Steven and Chris” on their CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) show. According to them there are two kinds of stress, they are the GOOD stress and the BAD stress. GOOD STRESS is a motivator. It keeps you alert and focused. An example of which includes getting a job promotion and purchasing your first home. BAD STRESS on the other hand is harmful to your body and mind. A few of its examples are work pressures, challenging conflicts and job loss.

            “Steven and Chris” also mentioned some warning signs of stress in physiological aspect, mood and other stuff. As what they have stated on their CBC website, a person who happens to experienced stress will have sore muscles, trouble sleeping, sweaty palms and fast heart rate. They would also feel anxious, snappy and detached from the world. Lastly that person will have poor quality of work, lack of focus, and will have the tendency to forget.

            Before we all get piled-up with all these laborious matters on stress let me now give you some tips on how to handle stress. The first five tips are as what Steven and Chris have stated on their page on the CBC website and the remaining tips are given by yours truly and by some of my fellow graduating students as well.

Get the Blood Pumping. Exercise transforms that same energy that’s normally wasted by worrying or fighting, into something valuable. Do some jumping jacks, go for a jog, jump rope, or just do some push-ups.

Healthy Comfort Foods. Food is fuel. What we put in our mouth is converted to energy. The better quality the food, the better you will feel. So choose healthy comfort foods instead of fatty or carb-heavy junk. For example: fruits instead of sweets; salads and grilled instead of greasy options; non-caffeinated teas instead of coffee or sugary drinks.

Sing Loud and Proud. Blast your favorite song and sing at the top of your lungs. Even if you sound like a squealing chipmunk, it will release tension and pressure.

Indulge In Pure Silence. Take ten minutes a day to sit in complete silence. You may be itching to get up after three minutes but force yourself to sit still in peace and quiet for a little while. It may be a challenge, but you will begin to feel peace if you are open to it.

Create an Adventure. Do something out of the ordinary. Perhaps it is something you have always wanted to do but never made the time for. Just do it!

Use Time Sensibly. Whenever you have the time to do and or finish your task, do it! Do not linger around and waste your time doing unproductive stuff. Avoid being the “I’ll-be-doing-it-in-a-while” kind of person. Remember: A lost time is never found again.

Anticipate Your Needs. Be prepared! Try to have the initiative in identifying your needed resources that would aid you in accomplishing your task. In that way you will be able to avoid repeating the same job over and over again.

Don’t Forget to Smile. Aside from having a wrinkle-free face, smiling also helps you lighten-up your heart. As what George Eliot, the English Novelist said, “Wear a smile and have a friend; wear a scowl and have wrinkles. What do we live for if not to make the world less difficult for each other?”

Look at Problems as a Challenge. As what Lala, a fourth year Masscom student explained, “Do not be instantly distress if ever you are faced with all these shortcomings. Try to view and take your problems as challenges instead. If you set your mind that way, you will be more motivated to face your problems and you will be more eager to work it out as well.”

Believe in What You Can Do. What better way to finish your task on time than to believe in our capability to do it! Thea, a senior Masscom student shared, “Trusting yourself to do your job well and believing in ones self to perform a task accordingly will surely help you ease out effortlessly from your work.”

Learn to Set Your Priorities. According to Jumar, a fifth-year Industrial Engineering working student and at the same time a candidate for an upcoming male pageant, “You have to know how to set priorities in your life. You have to know for yourself on what makes you feel happy and satisfied. In that way, you will be able to decide for yourself on which area are you going to spend most of your time and attention.”

Learn to Say No. Maybe you are loaded-up with work because you don’t know how to say no! You may feel that you are too selfish and inconsiderate if you are going to decline someone who is asking something from you, but I believe you are not. That is just what we called, self-preservation! You must also learn to put your self first once in a while, that wouldn’t hurt you, would it? –Emz, fourth year student from USC.

Have Someone to Inspire You. Working your minds out every day can really make you all worn out as the day ends; but if you have someone or something that inspires you to religiously finish what you’ve started then it would certainly make your work less laborious and who knows, it can even make a difference. –Net, 4^th year Chem. E. student from USC.

Never Be Afraid To Ask For Help. If you feel like you don’t know how to do a certain thing, or you think like you need some assistance, never hesitate to ask for one. It wouldn’t make you look so incompetent or helpless if you’re going to ask for help from others. We must realize and accept the fact that all of us have limitations and it is but normal to call on for help sometimes.

Don’t Try to Know All the Answers. You don’t hold the answers to all life’s mystery so don’t pressure your self too much in trying to find them either. Life itself is already intricate so avoid making it more complicated by trying too hard about everything.

I believe we are now all geared-up and ready to win our fight against our number one enemy, stress. Well handling stress might sound so far-fetched and strenuous, but with those given tips, I guess it would now be much easier to fight all those bad stress away. Fighting!

xoxo,


Mae =)

FEATURE WRITING CLASS : persOnal experience

THE THIN LINE BETWEEN FRIENDSHIP AND LOVE

By: Maelette O. Masbate

 

I'm stubborn, I'm relentless, I'm self-willed, and I stick to my beliefs no matter what...and so I thought!

I reckon I would forever live up to my firm belief, "I WOULD NEVER, EVER ALLOW MYSELF TO LIKE A FRIEND... to the point of FALLING FOR HIM!"

But darn! Stupid Cupid aimed his arrow at me one day and I just found myself beaming and smiling at the thought of "this friend"! At first I tried to reason out that what I’ve felt for him is just a fleeting feeling and an overstatement of my emotion. I even convinced myself to not entertain the thought of liking this certain guy pal and instead I kept on instructing myself to just push the unusual feeling at the back of my mind. But as what other people would say, bottled-up emotions would eventually overflow or if not, would find its way out.

I hate to admit it but I guess I ate up my own words this time. I'm conceding, I'VE FALLEN FOR MY FRIEND! Honestly I can't think of any concrete reason why I came to the point of finally making known to myself of what I truly felt for him; what I know now is that I've been carrying the torch for him for quite some time now. As what Kanye West's line from one of his song says, "It wasn't meant to be, it just happened!" 

Even though I have learned to like him for more than a year now I still I can’t help but think of the absurdities behind our situation. Probably that is the reason why every now and then I would go and take a trip down memory lane and try to relive the memories we had together; I would usually try to recollect the past things that took place which brought me in this direction…

I started to be friends with him during the second semester of our second year in college. Yeah, we went to the same University. In actuality, we’re batch mates, classmates to be exact. Although we belong to the same department, we weren’t that close at first since I happened to be a non-block when I was in first year.  We only get acquainted with each other and eventually became friends because of a common friend. We used to take those long walks and head home together with our other classmates from the school towards the Cathedral to take our ride home from there; and that had become the group’s routine for quite sometime. During those long walks, we either walk by pairs or by a group of three or more. I don’t know whether it is just mere coincidence or some lame joke brought about by fate, but more often than not we would end up walking along together. There are those moments as well when the boys (him and my other guy classmates) would have to wait for us (me and my other girl classmates) because we’re still attending the novena mass in a church or we’re just taking too long doing something after class. I guess it was between the walks we have taken and those countless waiting, talking and teasing that I have finally realized that I was actually slowly falling for my friend.

So now you’ve gotten the picture? He has been a close friend of mine for almost two years now.  The friendship that we have built is like that of the relationship between a brother and a sister. As a matter of fact the longer we spend time together, the stronger the bond of our friendship had become and the more comfortable we have been with one another. We used to be very reserved with each other before; I don’t even really talk to him about personal stuff and all, but now he’s been one of the best confidants I had. He is one of the few friends I have that can truly tolerate and understand my ever changeable behavior; I seldom talk to him when we are in a group before but now he is one of the few people I would directly go to and talk with.

I guess I have finally figured out and comprehend that aside from this stupefying closeness I have developed with him, the reason why I am drawn deeper towards my friend is because of his close-to perfect personality. I may sound like a besotted-school girl but I really think that most of the girls would definitely fall for him for that sole reason. The thought that boys rarely act and behave the way he does made him more appealing to me. This guy friend of mine happens to be very gentlemen caring and sweet, the characteristics that would actually make my knees go weak. I can also confidently say that his good looks has been a great addition to the whole package.

Behind all this hidden attraction I have for my friend though, I really do believe that the situation I am in is in a way both complicated and risky. It is complicated in a sense that I know this thing I have for him has no where to go because I am more than aware that my love story is categorized under the one-sided or unrequited love area. It is risky because I am laying our friendship on the line since I supposed he still doesn't know that I have a thing for him. And much worst I feel like I’m betraying our friendship because I see him as more than my friend. I am juggling both my wanting to keep our friendship unscathed and my desire to carry on what I feel for him. But no matter how complicated and risky this might be for me I am still determined to keep what I have for him... I'm taking the chance!

though I am allowing my self to continue loving him in silence I am also open to the possibility that he might and would eventually find out that I have fallen for him. I have been readying myself if worse comes to worst that day would eventually take place so I would not be caught off guard. I am making myself geared up for the likely confrontation that might happen, which I doubt would; I am preparing myself as well to the odds that he might not be talking to me anymore or worse would be avoiding my presence, which I hope he wouldn’t.

I know I have all these worries with regards to where would my unspoken desire would take me but, as of now I am not letting that stop me from making more unforgettable moments with him. He might not be aware about it but I have been cherishing all those simple little things he has done for me since then. From the senseless talks we have shared, the corniest jokes we both laughed at, the littlest secrets I have confided with him, to the most bizarre moments we have had together, all of these have been occupying the biggest part in my life. Like what most of my close buddies have been telling me, “Do not think about all your worries and queries, for now just cherish and relish the moment. Just be thankful for every moment you are able to spend with him”

And that is what I have been doing for the past year and so, just living through the sweetness while it last; treasuring every memory that I could make out of the times spent with him, etching every minute detail of him in my reverie. I fathom I would never know until then where this thing I have for him will take me, I do not hold the answer to all these questions surrounding my mind and it is not for me to decide how all of these will eventually end; only God knows and holds the answer. There is one thing though that I am positive about with where am at in my life right now and that is, “There is definitely a thin line between friendship and love.”

To finally end my article, let me share to you one of the poems that I’ve written for him:

UNSEEN

I wasn't supposed to feel for you this way.
But lately I've noticed,
That just a thought of you completes my day...

I wasn't supposed to think of you this way.
But somehow I feel,
That you wanted me to be okay...

I wasn't supposed to wish for you this way.
But being around you,
Wipes away my worries...

I wasn't supposed to yearn for you this way.
But when you're away,
My mind seemed to look for you inside itself...

I wasn't supposed to long for you this way.
But the look in your eyes,
Wants me to be lost in it forever...

I wasn't supposed to hope for you this way.
But the way you care,
Makes me feel secured and love...

xoxo,


Mae =)

  

A pOem fOr mOmmy teeya! ^.^

EVERYDAY

Everyday I wait for you in anticipation
Wishing to have a glimpse of your smile
Coz just the sight of you makes my day worthwhile…


Everyday I yearn in my unguarded reverie
That you will look my way
And make me feel good, you may…


Everyday I wonder with glee
Whether you’ll be around
For your vision is what I’ve found…


Everyday I long with hope in my heart
Distracting myself with my own uncertainties
While fueling my soul with possibilities…


Everyday I pray in silence
That along this life’s journey
He may see that to be loved, I am worthy…

xoxo,


Mae =)

Feature Writing Class - Making a Profile Story

In our feature writing class, Our instructOr asked us tO write a feature stOry abOut our chOsen partner...So here is the Profile stOry I've written abOut my friend Lala (we were partners in this activity).

The Woman Behind a Man’s Name

By: Maelette O. Masbate

She is gorgeous, she has great sense of fashion, she can draw anyone’s attention, she’ is exquisitely feminine, but there is something off about this lady that would make people think twice and ask, “Are you serious?”

Indeed this friend of mine is unique. She has a given name that could turn somebody’s face into a shock or if not into disbelief the moment they find out the truth behind it. I’m referring to Allan Llopes, Jra. Yes, you have read it right and there is definitely nothing wrong with your eyes nor there is any typographical error here. Her name is certainly Allan. Sounds so masculine right? But wait until you get to know her better and you will see that she is, without a doubt, a lady all the way through.

Allan or more commonly known to her friends as Lala got her name after her father who desperately wanted to have a baby boy but ended up having another little girl. She was the last addition to their family of five. Aside from her name, she inherited her 5’4” height from her father and got her slim figure from her mother. Having two elder sisters whose ages aren’t far from hers, she grew up having a special bond with them.

People who just met her for the first time might think that she is not approachable because of the strong personality that exudes from her the moment you look at her. Other people might even think of her as someone who is very liberated in all aspects because of the way she express her opinions. But wait until you come to know her more and you will realize that looks can sometimes be very deceiving.

Lala and I have been friends since we were in our sophomore years in the University. She is one of those people who I never imagined would become one of my close friends. We are different in loads of ways one can ever imagine, and yet we are one and the same in countless special ways at the same time.

Since I knew Lala quite well I think it’s time for me to let the world know and recognize the existence of this one exceptional lady. Now, let me help you get to know Lala more and find out what she thinks about having a unique name:

How do people usually react when they would find out your real name?

“All of them usually laugh and would wear a stunned expression on their faces... I really can't blame them though; it is rare to find a girl who has a name of a guy… (laughs)”

How do you handle their reactions?

“Uhhhhm, I just laugh it off. Most of my life, I always get the same reaction once they know my name and I guess, it grew on me. So, whenever someone I just met starts asking me questions like how or why did I get such a name, my mind would always say; ‘HERE WE GO AGAIN.’ But it is entertaining all in all.”

Knowing the people’s reaction upon hearing your name, did you ever wish to have a different name or have you even thought of changing it?

“That idea crossed my mind but then I discovered that it is expensive and there are lots of procedures to deal with, so I just dropped the idea off.”

Having a masculine name, can you say that you are as tough as what your name signifies?

“I’m tough if needed especially in dealing with adversities and I have had a lot of those these past couple of months. But, because of God’s good graces I have conquered all of it and moved on with my life. I may be scratched and flawed but I am certainly not broken.”

Despite being tough, for sure you do have your soft spot, don’t you?

What is it?

“I’m a hopeless romantic, I love reading romance novels that is why sometimes, I long to have my knight and shining armor sweep me off my feet. That’s the reason why I often get disappointed if my special someone can’t match my expectations. I am an idealist and I can’t seem to put it in my head that there is no such thing as happy ever after because in reality life is not always like that.”

Speaking of being a hopeless romantic, can you describe your ideal man?

“Since I was in my childhood years, I always wanted someone who is responsible, financially stable and faithful. He doesn’t need to look like David Beckham for me to love him but it is a bonus though if he is. (Laugh)... I have a weakness for funny guys and I want him to be a hopeless romantic like me so we can jive whatever mood we are in. If I will have this kind of guy then I would be the happiest woman in the world.”

Indeed Lala may possess a very masculine name, but the truth is, it is the exact opposite of what she really is. She may even look like she is as sturdy as her name, but behind that strong-willed facade is a passionate woman who still hopes to have her own happy ending someday.

xoxo,


Mae =)