Vacation Officially Starts

Good to be home. Chirping birds, colder weather, not wearing a jacket while tolerable, quiet moments, endless  stories from nieces, coffee outside, meals outside. BUT...I miss you, Mama and Daddy. Booo!

Goals for December 2015

Goals for December:

1. 10,000 steps a day or total of 310,000 steps for the month
2. Read 2 books (at least 1 non-romance book)
3. Maximum of 15 Uber rides
4. Declutter clothes cabinet
5. Review 2015 financial goals
6. Prepare 2016 financial and non-financial goals
7. Draft a simple plan for an online shop
8. Cover the books
9. Complete The Project Management: The Basics for Success course at Coursera.org and pass the weekly exams
10. Clean the yard at the Sayote Kingdom

Items 8 to 10 are spillovers from November, which I need to complete. Will report progress by end of December :).

*****

On another note, December is really truly here! Got my first gift from a friend this evening. She was so early in giving gifts :p. The first week of Kris Kringle in the office was also last night. So I brought home two gifts, both I liked, both tied in a red ribbon :).

Which reminds me...I need to put up my super tiny 7 year old Christmas tree! Ok, this week.

Are your Christmas trees already up? :)

Update: Goals for November 2015

Update on my goals for November 2015 (November went by so quickly!)

1. 10,000 steps a day or total of 300,000 steps for the month - FAILED (92.99% completed, an improvement from October's 81.15%)
2. Read 2 books (at least 1 non-romance book) - FAILED (read 2 books but both romance hehehe)
3. Maximum of 15 Uber rides (applicable both for going to work and going home from work/grocery) - SUCCESS!
4. Cover the books - FAILED (Ran out of plastic cover. Few more pieces to go)
5. Declutter book shelf - SUCCESS! (All books and magazines to be brought home already in a box. Thinking of the cheapest way to bring them home hehehe)
6. Complete The Project Management: The Basics for Success course at Coursera.org and pass the weekly exams - FAILED (Will complete it this December)
7. Attend a seminar on personal finance - SUCCESS! (Attended the Fundamental Analysis and Technical Analysis webinars offered by PSE scheduled last November 6 and 13, 2015)
8. Start planning for December calendar (non-work related events to attend to, not that there's a lot but I just want to ensure that I do/accept those that are relevant to me) - QUITE (While I would like to stick to the 2 events I've committed to date, there may be other events that I need to attend. As of now, I have to decline an invite to a friend's wedding because of conflicts in schedule with family affairs.)
9. Clean the yard at the Sayote Kingdom - QUITE (Was able to start during the APEC holidays but not enough free hours to finish it all. Will continue this December)

Still many reds than greens but it's okay. At least there are still green items.

Learnings from the VA Seminar

Got an email invite regarding the VA Success seminar by Marge Aberasturi (seminar title: My VA Success Blueprint: A Re-Run). After giving it thought, I signed up. It is a paid seminar but I don’t really mind playing around and adjusting my budget to pay for anything educational. Also, the seminar was a whole day event so I personally think the payment was worth it.

My main reason for attending is that I want to know how others started their online gigs and what they are doing to sustain it, to network with like-minded individuals, and to draw inspiration from others who were successful in it. 

Things I’ve learned: (I’m writing this days after the seminar so out of the many topics covered, these are the things retained in my memory)

1. You have to set goals in every aspect in your life. Your goals have to be clearly defined. Why? Because these goals are supposed to inspire you to keep on going every time you feel like giving up.
2. Virtual assistance is a lifestyle. Once you embark on this journey, it becomes part of your life.
3. You have to transition from an employer-employee mindset to a professional-client mindset. Why? Because your clients are technically not your employers. You are not under their Payroll. They get your services to take care of some parts of their business operations, hence you are a vendor providing VA services and they are your clients. 
4. VA is not all about having an internet connection and a computer. It entails a lot of work to be good at the craft.
5. In relation to #4, there are a lot of tools you need to learn to be successful in this area. Personally, this is my next goal – learn the tools.
6. There are general areas and specialized areas of being a VA. You have to have the skills to become one. If you don’t have at the moment but you really want to become one, then learn some skills. You should also know at what area you want to focus on. 
7. Working space is important. While it is nice to have a home office the moment you transition to working at home, the lack of it for the meantime should also not stop you from transitioning. Marge shared that she started with only having her desk at a corner in their living room. Others from the audience also shared that they have the same setup and it’s working for them.
8. Your online office/presence is also important. It is advisable to have a website with your own domain where you can showcase your portfolio. It’s the first step to getting yourself out there. It also becomes your brand so make sure it is something that clients will be attracted to. 
9. In relation to #8, be careful with what you put in your social media. Employers or potential clients nowadays tend to go to social media for their background check of potential people they aim to work with. 
10. There are different types of pricing. Know your worth and don’t go below your rate just so you can get clients. There are online communities of VAs in the Philippines and they are trying to establish a standard pricing for all.
11. Know your value proposition. What can you offer your client that others can’t or won’t even think of doing?
12. Make it your business to learn your client’s business so that you can do your job with as much error as possible, and you can do more than what you are expected to do, hence you leave a good impression to your client.
13. Be reliable, trustworthy and committed when doing business with your clients. It goes a long way.
14. It is possible to achieve your goals while working from home. Marge shared that she was able to become part owner of a science high school in their province out of her earnings as a VA.
15. There will be good days and bad days. You may experience a love-hate relationship with your clients but just strive to keep things on a professional level. For Marge, one of her long-time clients already considers her part of their family. She would occasionally receive emails from her client or his wife expressing how much they appreciate her for all that she does to help them in their business.
16. Your family’s support is important. You have to communicate with them all that entails working from home. Set rules and boundaries. On shared that she trained her kids to stay quiet during her work hours, so every time they see Mommy on her headset, it’s their queue to avoid making noise. One of her kids is 2 years old and he’s able to follow so don’t underestimate the ability of kids to comprehend what’s happening or what needs to happen at home. Others may also be new to this setup and they may think that you have all the time since you are just at home. They have to understand that you are still working, only at home.
17. One of the perks of working from home is that you are able to dictate your time. Create a timetable that works for you and the family but make sure that it is flexible enough to accommodate changes. If you’ve allotted 15 minutes to do a household task, then stop the task either completed or not, after 15 minutes. Continue with it when the next 15-minute schedule comes. This is to ensure that you don’t jeopardize missing on deadlines related to your work. As Marge said, it’s ok to have a messy house. BUT, one of her tips is to always clean your own work space so it becomes more inviting and inspiring to work. 
18. The work at home setup allowed Marge to home-school some of her kids and allowed her to not hire a helper. 
19. Share what you learn.
20. While not related to VA, Marge also shared that you can earn from your hobbies. One of her hobbies is doing crochet. She just started this because her daughter got interested in this and requested for lessons as her birthday gift. So along with the lessons, they also bought yarns. But just like any kid, her daughter changed her mind and became uninterested in the craft. Left with too many yarns, Marge took the lesson, and now, she’s selling some of her finished products. I am personally amazed because heck, I’ve learned to do crochet back in grade school because of required projects but never had the mindset of earning from it and then here comes Marge, who just learned the craft recently, and now earning from it. The most valuable lesson I learned from that story? I guess if I truly want to shift to entrepreneurship, I should start training my mind to think of a potential business opportunity out of ordinary things. 

It’s a long list but I know there is more. I’ll update once I consult my notes.

From the Backyard to the Dining Table: Camote Tops

Thanks to APEC, Manila has 2 additional special holidays, November 18-19, 2015. I took advantage of it and decided to spend it at my sayote kingdom a.k.a home. 

Yesterday’s viand for lunch was camote tops, which I got from the yard (thanks to my brother who planted it). One of my goals is to someday serve food at the dining table harvested from the yard, just like the old times. Yes, old times, because my family’s main source of income was planting vegetables. And if you are a farmer, it’s basically what you plant is what you eat. While I didn’t appreciate it very much back then, I realized years later that I was lucky to have that kind of setup. Now, how I wish I could do it in Manila but space is limited, plus the weather is different. But urban gardening is also encouraged these days so might as well look into that option. 

Funny thing was, since I know my brother is not at home, I dropped by the grocery to pick up some stuff to sustain me while there. My siblings have their own lives, I have my own home, and since my mother died, there’s no one to ensure I have food at home, courtesy of her sari-sari store hehehe. Anyway, I picked up some canned goods, and I grimaced while doing so and again while typing this hahaha (I’m trying as much as I can to avoid all things processed now, that’s why). But since the camote tops are I think enough to for the meals that I have to take at home, looks like the canned goods will be for my brother hahaha. Swap kami :p. Plus, tita and her family is visiting this weekend so they will bring more vegetables.

Note: While the camote tops in the picture doesn't look appetizing enough to some, it's how I want my vegetables cooked-plain and just sauteed in little oil with a dash of salt.  

Work Tales: Please Answer the Questionnaire

While searching for an email that I knew I sent 2 years ago, I came across another email from a colleague, asking me to answer a questionnaire for her niece’s school requirement.  Mid this year, I also learned that my friend from another team hired someone and mentioned that she is the niece of that colleague. I then asked my colleague if that niece who was in school before is the same niece who is now working for the same company as hours. He said yes. Small world. And happy for her because she was able to find a job that’s related to her course after college :).

And I just had to look for that questionnaire I answered 2 years ago because I honestly can’t remember what my answers were. Baka pala nagkalat ako non hahaha! Pero buti na lang hindi because I take these seriously…as in kinakarir ko ang pagsagot. Here’s the last question of that questionnaire and my answers (emphasis on the s haha!).

Question: As Information Technology students, what advice or tips can you give us in building a good and proper attitude towards becoming a Systems Analyst?

• Analytical thinking is critical
• You should have at least a basic understanding of the concepts of development. Know the difference between web and client apps. Which one is appropriate for what problem?
• At the very least, you should know about databases.
• You are between your client and the developers. Learn how to speak both languages. You will often find yourself explaining to clients how a system works. A hardcore programmer will always be technical when doing explanations making your client more confused. You as the analyst, should be able to translate technical jargon to simple English that your clients can understand.
• Do not assume. Always ask the client. Validate and revalidate some more. Ensure that you are both in the same page.
• You should be not afraid of dealing with people. If you want to become an analyst but you are too shy, work on your shyness. There will be a lot of people interaction.
• Always know how and when to ask the right questions. There are several ways of getting requirements. Make Google your friend :). 
• Know when to be firm, when to meet halfway with the client or when to give them what they think they need. Be their devil’s advocate if you think they are not on the right track.
• Always remember that whatever solutions you provide, it should always be aligned with the company objectives. At the end of the day, higher management will just care about its financials. They are willing to invest as long as they see a return on investment over the course. Hence, as the systems analyst who recommends solutions, your solutions should contribute to what’s important to management.

Now that I read it again, parang mali ata sagot ko kasi attitude ang tanong nila pero skills ang mga sinabi ko hahahaha! Huwell, anyway, ayan, graduate naman na so keri na rin siguro hahaha. Koloka!

Update: According to that niece, she got a high grade on that project. Good to know haha!

* Image from here *

Work Tales: Zero-Defect UAT

I got news tonight that our internal client was happy with the outcome of the system that we implemented recently. And I was a little surprised to hear that from her knowing that it's not really her nature to give such kinds of feedback. Specifically, she and her were team happy and surprised that there were no findings during their user acceptance testing. 

I'm happy to learn that the team's hard work paid off, especially so that it was not a bed of roses during the journey. We were not able to meet the original timeline that we committed to our clients due to multiple projects being handled by the same resources, hence causing some delays in the completion of tasks prior their testing. I have underestimated the timeline for my own testing. It took me longer than my estimate. My findings were showstoppers so I had to wait for the Dev team to resolve the issues.

The moment I was not provided with the test site on the day that I should start my testing, I knew there was a chance we can't make it to the deadline. When I was finally able to do a quick test of the basic functionalities of the system and got major findings, I knew we really will be delayed. I toyed with the idea of just handing over a buggy system to them just so we won't be tagged as delayed. However, my other self, who have always believed that we can have a bug-free system by doing thorough testing, was against my initial idea. My other self won. And so I talked to the client's team member working with us, told her that we were not going to make it to the original timeline, presented a new timeline based on where we were at that time and silently prayed that she would just accept the fact that we were delayed and agree to the new timeline. She was ok with it. One down. Composed another email to be sent to the project owner, project manager, and my boss, again with a silent prayer that they won't have any violent reactions. I must be lucky that day because I did not recieve any replies from them haha.

So off we went with the client's testing, and while they were doing theirs, I still continued with my own because while I was more confident with the finished product that we handed over for their testing, I still wanted to make sure that I did not miss anything. Good thing that I did beacuase I had one more finding and it happened prior them testing that specific module. Otherwise, we wouldn't have zero defect haha.

We were delayed for 4 days and a delay is still a delay no matter how short or long it is. So you see, I really can't help but be surprisd with the news. But thank you anyway.

On the other hand, I'm happy to have made that decision to accept the delay even if at the time, I did not feel good about it at all and has caused me too much stress. With this experience, I learned that it's better to just face the music head on and just be transparent about things. However, as a note to myself, delays should only be because of valid and acceptable reasons. This way, everybody happy. :). Cheers! 

* Image from here. *

Family Saga: Decision Concerning my Niece

At the time I shared this, I really didn't know what to do next. The next day, I went ahead and paid for her balance even though I wasn't sure yet whether I would still like to continue to support her or not anymore. But I told her that she will need to pay me back because it was not part of what we agreed upon prior her school. And I did not talk to her after. And I was still disappointed with her behavior after I have paid for her tuition. 

When I went home for All Saints Day, we did not talk. I deliberately avoided talking to her because I still don't know what to do with her. 

After much thinking though, I decided to give her one more chance, her last chance that is, if her grades were ok. I texted her to ask what her plans are. She said she would still like to continue her studies if there's a chance. I told her to email me her grades and the total amount for her second semester then I'll decide. She did, and fortunately for her (and a little relief for me), she had good grades. Her lowest was 87. And so I told her to go ahead and enroll. This time, I'll just be the one to deposit her tuition and maybe I'd have to do that every month. But I'd rather go that route than be stressed again later on should she decide to spend it elsewhere. Also, lesser temptation for her. And while I'm still mad at what she did, I will again take this risk with the hope that she has learned her lesson and all I'm asking from her is to take this chance while I still can help her so that she'll be able to stand on her own soon and provide for her and her daughter. 

As for her parents, I'm not sure if they knew about it. Haven't asked them because I knew I would still be emotional and I don't want to do that with the whole family present. Plus, I don't want to confront them, especially my sister because I know I can be harsh to her and for sure, what I'll get will just be silence. Dagdag frustration. 

Goals for November 2015

Goals for November:

1. 10,000 steps a day or total of 300,000 steps for the month
2. Read 2 books (at least 1 non-romance book)
3. Maximum of 15 Uber rides (applicable both for going to work and going home from work/grocery)
4. Cover the books
5. Declutter book shelf
6. Complete The Project Management: The Basics for Success course at Coursera.org and pass the weekly exams
7. Attend a seminar on personal finance
8. Start planning for December calendar (non-work related events to attend to, not that there's a lot but I just want to ensure that I do/accept those that are relevant to me)
9. Clean the yard at the Sayote Kingdom

Will report progress by end of November :).

Update: Goals for October

Updates on Goals for October:

1. 10,000 steps a day or total of 310,000 steps for the month - FAILED but still an improvement as compared to previous months
2. Do the 7-minute work out daily - FAILED
3. Read 2 books (at least 1 non-romance book) - FAILED (was able to read 1)
4. Renew passport - SUCCESS (for pick up by November 24)
5. Maximum of 5 Uber rides going to work - SUCCESS 
6. Bring packed dinner every Tuesday and Thursday - FAILED 
7. Cover the books - FAILED

Family Saga: I Don't Know What To Do With My Niece

I am very disappointed with my niece. I am still in fact fuming mad until now, 6 hours after her very disappointing text. She became a single mom at a very young age. After giving birth last year, I asked her what her plans were. She said she wanted to continue her studies. Suffice to say, her parents cannot support her, especially now that there's an additional member of their family. I decided to support her so that she can still have the chance to have a better life despite what happened to her. Also, in my mind, she will be going back to the same school, where tuition is cheaper. However, she chose a different school, which is more expensive. How expensive? My anticipated tuition per semester in the state university was what I needed to set aside per MONTH for her new school. But thinking that maybe it was the best option for her, and since I already gave my word and commitment to support her, I gave her the go signal to transfer school. I crunched my numbers, cut down on my expenses, and sacrificed some luxuries and target savings, just so I can accommodate her school expenses. I was even hesitant to jump into a relationship, something that I have prayed for fervently in recent months, just because heck, I don't have any extra for dates! (While it is nice to have someone to spend for you, I have been independent for the longest time that it makes me uncomfortable when someone spends for me.)

Sometime last week or the other week, her sister, who is now an OFW, told me that this niece sent her a private message in FB asking for financial support. I was surprised but did not give much thought. I just thought maybe she was shy to continue asking for support from me. To intervene, I texted her to ask when her payment is due. I've been paying monthly since she started school in June. She said she was not sure. Just to test that we are aligned with what she paid so far, I asked her to confirm if her payment for October is the last for this sem. She did not reply.

She dropped the bomb last night. She texted, asking me to deposit a certain amount in a certain bank and email her the scanned copy of the deposit slip so that she can take her exams later today. And she said she spent the money I sent her from July to September. And that she was sorry. WTF. My blood boiled that instant. I wanted to cry just to let it all out, but I was still in the office, in another site, away from the comfort of my own workstation. I had to struggle to think objectively. I asked her calmly what happened. She said she spent it for projects and food, and the rest she did not know where it went. WTF. I lost my cool and texted my disappointment with her, and more strong words that I know would hurt her. And I don't care. I don't deserve this. I am not asking anything from her in return. Our deal was that, I pay for her tuition, her parents should pay for the rest of her expenses. Should she complete her course, all that I paid for her will be her graduation gift. Otherwise, she has to pay whatever amount I shelled out up to the time she quit school. 

I still don't know what to do now. I want to go home so that I can slap her and confront her and her parents. I cannot sleep because I am really hurt. I don't know whether I'll still take the risk to help her or not. And I can't believe she even gave me a tight deadline in paying for her tuition. WTF again. Unfortunately, our province has been hit by Typhoon Lando and I cannot contact my aunt or my brother. Electricity is still not restored in many areas, moreso, in the far flung place where my aunt is. Arrrgggg! 

Note: I did not oblige my other niece, who is now an OFW, to help me support her sister because I want her to start early with her savings. Besides, she already has her own family, and I helped her put together her budget before leaving, and encouraged her to focus on her own family and set expectations with her parents that she won't be giving them monthly support. However, part of her budget is a monthly savings for her parents for major events where she will be forced to shell out money for them.

Commuter's Chronicles # 1

Happenings/observations/memes while commuting.

10.01.2015

Palabas ako sa Shang exit that connects to the MRT. Revolving door yung exit. Biglang may mamang pumasok using the exit door kasi medyo may pila sa entrance. But that's an exit door, dude! Gusto ko syang sitahin pero may glass covering him eh. Tinaasan ko na lang ng kilay. 

Sa MRT, may arrows indicating where to stay in line for those riding and for those alighting. Dumating ang isang girl, tumayo sa gitna ng arrows. Pinagsabihan ko kahit may kausap sa phone. Sumunod naman. Good girl. Pero next time gril, matutong sumunod sa policies/guidelines kasi. Same eksena sa LRT naman. Napagod na akong manita. Next time na lang.

10.02.2015

May girl na biglang huminto right before stepping on the escalator. Tila may hinihintay na text bago magdecide if akyat or not. Muntik ko na sya mabangga. Girl, next time, tumabi naman muna ng maayos if hindi pa decided kung sasakay or not. Thank you.

10.13.2015

Hindi ako sumasakay sa cars reserved for pregnant women, senior citizens, people with disability and those with young kids both for MRT and LRT. Pero kanina, bilang hinahabol ko yung kararating na LRT (with matching takbo going up the escalator), pumasok ako sa first door thinking na lipat na lang ako sa area designated for the masa. Kaso may harang palang kadena hehe. May isang buntis na ang tagal akong tinitigan. Siguro iniisip if buntis ako. Bilang marami akong extra fats, sana inisip na lang nyang buntis ako hahaha. Ang awkward lang kasi etong si ateng kung makatitig parang mortal sin ang sumakay sa areang para sa kanila. Buti na lang may kasama akong mamang di naman senior at mas lalong di buntis :p. Tiniis ko na lang ang mapanuring titig ni ateng since 2 stations lang naman ako. Pero kalurkey pa rin hahaha!

10.14.2015

Medyo feeling sosyal ako kaya naka-Uber ako ngayon hehe. Joke. Ang totoo, late na kasi ako so kailangan magmadali.

Anyway, sa Greenhills ang daan and medyo traffic. Nung nasa intersection kami ng Ortigas Ave. at Connecticut, may 2 cars na biglang tumawid while naka-green pa yung side namin. Since traffic nga, medyo napahinto kami sa mismong gitna at harang sila. Bigla ba namang bumusina yung isa. Napalingon uli ako sa stop light. Green pa rin naman. Pinandilatan ko sya at kiber na if nakita nya o hindi. 

Dear driver, please don't drive if you don't know how to read traffic rules or you don't have plans of following traffic rules. Thank you.

Estimated to be Fully Paid Up By…

*Image from here*

Thirteen years ago, I was convinced by an agent to get an insurance. Back then, all my batch mates were getting one for themselves. Besides, one batch mate was friends with the agent (he was the husband of the batch mate’s officemate). And because everyone was getting, and the agent prepared several proposals for me based on my budget then, plus I already had some hindsight that eventually, I’ll have to support my parents, I also decided to get one. However, I had very limited knowledge on how insurance works and personal finance in general. I know, I know. I should not be getting into something that I don’t fully understand but…I was young and gullible hehehe.

 Anyway, with the thick documentation given to me and all that was written in it, what stuck in my mind was the possibility of my policy being fully paid up on the 13th year, given some conditions (like dividends have not been withdrawn). So earlier today, I just took the chance to ask my new agent’s secretary. Guess what? As per the company’s records, my policy is estimated to be fully paid up by January 3, 2016! Yay!!!! Clap clap clap! She emphasized “estimated” and they will check again in December but I’m crossing my fingers that it will still be the case. While the monthly amount I set aside for this policy is  not that substantial, it would still be a big help especially now that there is a new item I need to save up for. So, I’m claiming that this policy will be fully paid up by January 3, 2016! :)

The Labyrinth Walking Meditation Part 2

* All information (in italics) is taken from the print out given to me during my retreat at the Cenacle Sisters Retreat House in September 2014. No reference site/s in the print out.*

Go here for part 1.

Labyrinth at Cenacle Sisters Retreat House

Experiencing the Labyrinth 

People have different experiences walking the labyrinth. As with all practices of prayer or meditation, your experience will grow and deepen the more you do it. There is no "right" or "wrong" experience. Some people feel a sense of peace. Others find old memories rising up as they walk. Others find themselves thinking about an immediate situation or person. Others walk at varying speeds as different thoughts and emotions come and go. Some people experience physical sensations, perhaps become light-headed or, or have a feeling of floating above, a feeling of weight, or of great warmth. Some people have profound insights. others have very small experiences or none at all. the experience of walking the labyrinth is different for each person, each time. whatever you experience, it is your experience. Relax and see what happens.

Suggestions for Walking

• The labyrinth is a path for prayer and meditation.
• Collect yourself before you start. Think of different people, events, situations, places or things in your life to develop a specific intention if you wish to use one in your meditation.
• Get centered.
• There are two common ways of walking: the way of silence and the way of image.
• (1) In choosing the way of silence it might be helpful to focus on your breathing.
• (2) The way of image might be done by reciting a prayer or name for God over and over to yourself.
• Ask yourself: How am I loved? How do I love? In either case or in some other manner best suited to you, be open to your heart and mind. Pay attention to your thoughts as they rise and then let them go.
• The labyrinth is a place of presence; allow yourself to be present to yourself and to God. 
• The labyrinth is a teacher; let it teach you through the mysterious power of God.
• As you walk the path, thoughts and ideas may rise up for you and in you -- often in refreshing and startling ways.
• One way to feel more connected to the experience is to walk barefoot and slowly.  There is no need to rush. Some people feel a sense of confusion as they first star, remember there is only one path in and one path out. you will not get lost. For some people running as quickly as possible to the center, resting there, and then running quickly out is a powerful experience. 
• OR
• (3) Use the basic walking meditation. The whole experience consists of three parts -- a letting go, a letting in and a letting out.
• Prepare yourself for the walk by pausing at the ntrance to clear your mind and become aware of your breath. You may offer a prayer/intention for the walk you are about to make. 
• Letting go (surrendering) -- The walk around the design to the center is a time to quiet thoughts, worries, lists of tasks to do and a letting go -- emptying your mind, being present to your body, and surrendering yourself to God.
• Letting in (receiving) -- As you reach the center, you may find your heart opening. Stay as long as you need. This is a place of meditation, prayer and illumination. Receive what is there for you.
• Letting out (returning) -- When ready, take the walk out -- back to your life, now refreshed and empowered by the Spirit to live and renewed faith and hope.

I'll share my personal experience of the labyrinth in another post.

Dear Mama and Daddy #1

Dear Mama and Daddy,

How are you both? Missing you guys so much but I'm sure you're having a grand time with the Father up there. Grabe, dati, dear Mama lang. Ngayon dear Mama and Daddy na. Kalurkey kayo. Nag-usap ba kayong magkasunod kayong aalis ng less than 2 years apart? Di man lang nagtagal ang isa sa inyo para makita ang apo sa akin. Nanawa na ba kayo sa kakahintay? Nawalan na ba kayo ng pag-asang magkaka-lovelife ako? Hahaha!

And speaking of lovelife...Mama grabe ka! Hahaha! I learned something recently. Ginawa mo talaga yun?! Kaloka ka hahaha! Masyado na ba talagang bothersome sa yo ang pagiging single ko at kinailangan mong gumawa ng da-moves mo? Kulang na lang idaan mo sa fixed marriage eh. Buti na lang subtle ka lang duma-moves. Hahaha! Pero susko ka inay! :p Sabi ni koya, ang pagkakaintindi daw nya nung una, meron daw akong 7 kids hahaha. Sabi ko baka 7 grandkids ang sabi mong meron ka haha. Pero thanks, Ma. By learning about it, mas kampante na ako dahil feeling ko nascreen mo na sya. Kami na po ahihi! Sabi pala nya, sana buhay ka pa. Siguro para may kakampi sya lalo na pag inaaway ko sya hahaha. Pero pakibatukan na lang kami pag umiral ang katigasan ng mga ulo namin hahaha!

O sya. I'll see you both sa Undas. Ako po ang dadalaw sa inyo. Wag na po ninyo akong dalawin at baka mawala pa kayo hehehehehe. Nga pala, gusto nyo ba talaga ng puting mansion? Or gusto nyo ng other colors next year? Hehe. E kandila, anong kulay gusto nyo? Let me know in my dreams, ok? I love you and I miss you both. Please continue watching over us.

Love,

Mylene

The Labyrinth Walking Meditation Part 1

* All information (in italics) is taken from the print out given to me during my retreat in September 2014. No reference site/s in the print out. *

Labyrinth at Cenacle Sisters Retreat House

What is a Labyrinth?

A labyrinth is an ancient human symbol known to go back at least 3500 years and probably much older. They appeared on most inhabited continents in prehistory, with examples known from North & South America, Africa, Asia, and across Europe from the Mediterranean to Scandinavia. The labyrinth symbol was incorporated into the floors of the great Gothic pilgrimage cathedrals of France in the twelfth & thirteenth centuries. The most famous extant design is the example in the nave floor of the Cathedral of Notew Dame de Chartes outside of Paris.

Why Do We Walk the Labyrinth?

A labyrinth is not a maze, but a walking meditation device with a single winding path from the edge to the center. The labyrinth represents the journey inward to our own true selves and back out into the everyday world. 

Walking a labyrinth is a right brain activity (creative, intuitive, imaginative), and can induce or enhance a contemplative or meditative state of mind. It is a tool which can clear the mind, calm our anxieties during periods of transition and stress, guide healing, deepen self-knowledge, enhance creativity, allow for reconciliation, restore feelings of belonging to a community, and lead to personal and spiritual growth. 

For many walkers, the labyrinth becomes a metaphor for the journey of life: although full of twists and turns, each of us is on a single path through his or her life, and yet each person's journey is a separate and distinct qualitative experience. In walking labyrinths, modern seekers are emulating and recapturing the pilgrimage tradition of many ancient faiths. 

Benefits of Labyrinth Walking

Research conducted by Dr. Herbert Benson at Harvard Medical School's Mind/Body Medical Institute has found focused walking meditations are highly efficient at reducing anxiety and eliciting what Dr. Benson calls the 'relaxation response'. This effect has significant long term health benefits. Regular meditative practice leads to greater powers of concentration and a sense of control and efficiency in one's life. 

*Part 2*

Goals for October 2015

Starting this type of post this October. Hopefully, I'll be able to keep up with this on a monthly basis.

Goals for October:

1. 10,000 steps a day or total of 310,000 steps for the month
• Action plan/s:
• Walk 10 rounds every morning
• Walk to MRT and LRT
• Ensure that step counter is running to monitor progress
2. Do the 7-minute work out daily
• Action plan/s:
• Do it after morning walk
3. Read 2 books (at least 1 non-romance book)
• Action plan/s:
• Read at least an hour a day
4. Renew passport
• Action plan/s:
• Do not cancel schedule on October 29, 2015
5. Maximum of 5 Uber rides going to work
• Action plan/s:
• Commute to work unless really unavoidable (raining and it's not practical to walk)
6. Bring packed dinner every Tuesday and Thursday
• Action plan/s:
• Prepare menu
• Cook in advance
7. Cover the books
• Action plan/s:
• Cut covers
• Cover at least 2-4 books per day

Will report progress by end of October :).

Random Thoughts #2

1. What a waste of time when you need to resolve something just because the one who did it the first time was not diligent enough to ensure that all information are correct prior to sending her request. What's worse is that when you ask her to correct it, she does not respond back right away. Nakakaubos ng oras, pasensya at focus sa ibang bagay. 
2. Sobrang nafrustrate ako sa nangyari last week. 30 minutes before a client meeting, saka ko lang nalamang may conflict in resources at yung project ko yung imo-move. Buti nagcheck ako ng email on the way to work. Nagpanic at narattle talaga ako kasi sobrang ura-urada naman. Three minutes before the call started, I asked my teammate to gather everyone in the call first. Ako, step out saglit at naghabol ng iyak ng kahit 2 minutes lang, otherwise, sabog ako sa discussion. Ayun, I also sent a feedback email to my boss expressing my frustration. Akala ko nga wala na akong work the following day eh hahaha. Meron pa rin naman. I just had to do that because I really felt we failed as a team to coordinate that time.
3. Been thinking of growing back my original curly hair since last month. I am more convinced this time so ok, no more rebond session in 2016. Kiber na sa bad hair days at mahangin sa labas moments hehe. 
4. Gusto ko makita yung super moon kagabi. Nilagay ko pa yun sa calendar ko. Kaso mostly ng articles na nabasa ko, hindi daw makikita sa Pinas. Olats.
5. Mas malaki pa rin daw than normal yung buwan tonight. Kaso cloudy naman, umaambon-ambon pa. Olats uli. Tumingala ako bago pumasok sa boarding house, ayun nga, natatakpan ng mighty clouds. Better luck next time.
6. Di ako updated sa AlDub. No comment din. O wag nyo ako kuyugin, nagtitipid ako ng kuryente kaya di ko na binubuksan TV ko.
7. Nung lumpiat kami ng office sa QC, balak kong mag commute sana pauwi. Mid shift ako. The first time na inattempt ko, na slash bag ko. Last week, pinag-iisipan ko uli para makatipid. Na hold up teammate ko. With matching tutok ng baril. Atras na uli sa balak ko. Tipid tipid na lang sa ibang bagay. 
8. Nung narealize kong halos same Lang ang rate ng taxi at Uberx, Uberx na ang choice of ride ko kasi: generally mas pleasant ang mga drivers, di na ako maiinis sa mga nagrerequest ng dagdag na akala mo ang layo-layo ng paghahatiran sa akin, straight charge sa card so  di na ako makukunsumi sa pagprepare ng change, at bago pa lahat halos ng mga sasakyan. Pero ang pinakatotoo nyan, gusto ko maexperience makasakay sa iba-ibang cars para may idea ako sa "feel" nila at di na ako mahirapan should I decide to finally buy a car hehehe. Meron na akong na-eliminate actually hehe. Sana makasakay ako sa Suzuki Ertiga. I'd like to check if spacious talaga and if di bumpy.
9. First undas ng tatay ko sa November 1. Need to go home. Baka magtampo eh. Syempre iba daw ang undas sa anniversary nya hehe.
10. Ilang days na lang 'til Christmas. No solid Christmas and New Year plans yet.

Fully Loaded Saturday

My friend and I squeezed in 2 activities into our schedules yesterday. In addition, I have another event to go to in the evening while my friend needs to go home to do some house chores. To help us manage our time well, we specified the exact time we should be spending for each event. 

Confucius Institute Day

My friend took up Chinese classes at the Confucius Institute in Ateneo so she learned about this event. I was expecting that there will be Chinese food so I went with her hahaha! When we got to the place, I felt a little awkward because most were students (high school and college) hehehehe. Anyway, there was an exhibit of everything related to the Chinese culture. There were also several activities like games, photobooth, making Chinese lanterns, and videoke featuring Chinese songs. Food? You need to complete the stamp before you can have siopao and siomai hehehehe. Since we were feeling out of place, we just tried one game, hoop, where you throw a rounded wire into a bottle of water. You have 3 tries. I did not get any. But I got one stamp hehehe. We left after a few minutes.

I also took a brochure of their short courses. Side story: I have this crazy plan of wanting to try to study in UP Diliman, La Salle, and Ateneo, either taking up full courses or just short courses hehe. I have started the MTM program in UP with the intention of finishing it. For Ateneo, and La Salle, maybe short courses will do :).

2015 Work at Home Expo

From Makati, we went straight to Bayanihan Center in Kapitolyo, Pasig to catch what's left of the Work at Home Expo. We reached the place at 11:30 AM and fortunately, there were still talks at the main hall in the afternoon so we registered and spent some time to check out the sponsors' booths. We went for a quick lunch at Jollibee Pioneer Center (we were shooting for a non-fastfood place that's also cheap but this is the best option we had so....) and back to the events place few minutes before 1 PM in time for the afternoon sessions. We were able to listen to 5 resource speakers.

• Joe Maristela of Katalyst.ph: His talk focused on how he started and operated his business in the US, right in his bedroom. He is a proponent for work at home because it is more efficient that way. He moved his operations to Manila recently and is now also into angel investing.

• Marilen Montenegro of Marilen.ph: Her topic was on Balancing Business, Home and Heart. She shared her tips on how to balance your business, home and family. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to take pictures of her presentation slides but I think all the things she shared are also in her blog.

• Impact Hub Manila (I forgot the name of the speaker): The focus of his talk is about coworking. It's basically sharing a space with other people, instead of working at the confines of your home or in coffee shops. With this setup, you get to network with other freelancers.

• Anna Meloto-Wilk of Human Heart Nature: She shared how they started with Human Heart Nature. Right now, their main focus is social entrepreneurship and supporting/putting up foundations. Her dad is Antonio Meloto, founder of Gawad Kalinga.

• Teresa Dumadag of FullLifeCube.com: Her topic was on time management for the work at home parent. She discussed 3 success strategies in managing her time and living a full life: 1) PLAN how she uses her time; 2) Manages her time based on her PRIORITIES; 3) manages her time based on her clearly defined GOALS.

After listening to all these talks, paying the Php 100 entrance fee to the main hall was really worth it. I was somehow inspired. There were a lot of lessons that's not only applicable to work at home parents but basically to everyone who would like to find balance and live their lives to the fullest. 

I want to attend more similar events so as to get inspiration to go into entrepreneurship. I have always been an introvert so I always have self doubt that I can make it but it is one area that I want to venture into eventually. One little step at a time, even though sometimes, I feel that I am running out of time already. That's too many "times" in one sentence so I'm reminded again haha. Whew. 

Beloved: A Journey of Love Concert

And before ending my day, I went to a concert. I have talked about this in my previous post. No regrets about going here. It's like having a date with the Lord, serenaded by world-class singers. This was what I shared in my FB post few minutes after the event. "My reward for attending the fundraising concert of the Cenacle Sisters? Was serenaded by none other than Basil Valdez, Noel Cabangon, the Cenacle Sisters, Hangad, Himig Heswita, Bukas Palad Ministry, and the Ateneo Chamber Singers! Thanks Ed for sharing this event. Thank you Cenacle Sisters Retreat House for doing this and reminding us all that we are beloved. Bitin!!! Hoping and waiting for a repeat. :)

I felt all sorts of emotions, and some parts of my life's journey flashed back depending on the song hahaha. But most importantly, I felt that I truly am beloved, despite all my flaws. Amazing. 

Loved all the songs, and related them all to my life hahaha. Here were some of the songs, on top of my head: 

• Ikaw - for someone who came into my life just recently :)
• Hindi Kita Malilimutan - for Mama and Daddy, who are now our angels :)
• Lead Me Lord - our elementary graduation song, which I almost always remember when find myself at a crossroad
• Kanlungan - true, pana-panahon ang pagkakataon
• I Will Sing Forever - indeed, I will sing forever of your love Oh Lord (and cling forever to Your promised love)

Thank you, Lord for the gift of time.

Beloved: A Journey of Love Concert

* Image from Cenacle Retreat House's FB account *

A friend shared the photo above in his Facebook timeline and I did not hesitate to buy a ticket because it is a fund raising concert which will support the ministries of Cenacle Sisters. I'm sure it will be a lovely night because the concert goers will be serenaded by Basil Valdez, Noel Cabangon, Hangad and Himig Heswita, Bukas Palad Music Ministry, Ateneo Chamber Singers and the Cenacle Sisters themselves!

It's happening tomorrow, September 26, 2015 starting at 6:00 PM at the B.F. Rooker Auditorium, St. Paul College, Pasig City. 

Tickets are available at the following:

• Tanging Yaman Kiosk - 5F SM Megamall
• Tanging Yaman Store - Ateneo de Manila University
• Cenacle Retreat House - 59 Nicanor Reyes Street, Varsity Hills Subdivision, Loyola Heights, QC (Tel. #s: 0947-194394/0917-9932204/Jesuit Communications - 426-5971 local 113)

Ticket prices (free seating within each section):

• Upper Box - Php 300.00
• Balcony - Php 500.00
• Orchestra - Php 1,000.00
• Loge - Php 2,000.00

Side story: The Cenacle Retreat House was my refuge when I was hit by depression in 2014 (more on this in another post). I spent several days there last September 2014 to break away for a while from the reality that I had back then. After that personal retreat, I came out more hopeful that things will become better eventually. Going to this concert then is just a small way of giving back and saying my thanks to that community. Also, Sr. Susay who was my retreat master last year, will be singing so all the more that I want to go! :)

All set for the concert!

Of Online Gigs and Work at Home Thoughts

Thoughts of doing online gigs have been swirling in my mind lately. I can't help but imagine myself transitioning from a corporate adventurer to a work at home diva sometime in the future. To push things further, I just saw a blog sharing about a Work at Home (WAH) Expo 2015 happening this weekend haha.

And if ever I want to go that route, I think I need to somehow build an online presence. So, I have decided to make more effort in updating this blog at least once or twice a week hehe. It might be quite a challenge because most days are just work and home for me but let's see. Maybe I would eventually be inspired to inject some other activities in between hehe. However, I would still like to keep it personal so that I won't be pressured to write or share things that I'm not comfortable about sharing. Let's see how far this goes. And since it is still a personal blog,  it will contain different topics. I don't think I am ready to shift to a niche blog just yet. 

Happy Thursday!

Kuwentong OFW: Before Leaving PH

Warning: Long post ahead.

As mentioned in my previous post, my niece is now an official OFW. Since I learned about her plan, I’ve encouraged her to prepare for other things aside from her employment, mostly finance related.

• Learn about Personal Finance
We grew up not knowing anything about personal finance. I just came across it myself years after I started working. So I wanted my niece to start earlier than me in this aspect. I gave her my book of Colayco’s Pera Mo Palaguhin mo and encouraged her to read it because it will help her with her finances. My thought then was that if she was successful with her application, she may be overwhelmed with how much money she may be earning (it’s not a big amount but significant enough as compared to their current income) and may not be able to take care of it. Thankfully, she listened and I think she was able to read the entire book. We also had one on one sessions where I shared with her my limited knowledge on personal finance. Pinabaon ko na rin sa kanya yung books. I’ve also asked her to sign up in Dropbox so that I can send her some more eBooks, which reminds me…I still haven’t done this hahaha! Plus, read all the personal finance blogs.


• Set her goals
I asked her to think of her and her partner’s goals so that she won’t waste this chance of earn more by spending aimlessly. I also encouraged her to save up for their emergency fund, her daughter’s college education, a little for their retirement and settle her debts. Her other goal is to buy a piece of land and build their home in the province. I also told her to consider saving up for a business or anything that can become her source of income once she comes back home for good. She should put a timeline as to when she would work as an OFW, and that it should not be until her retirement, unless opportunity knocks once more after he contract and it’s favorable for her and her family.


• Prepare a budget and stick to it
I believe that this is the most important tool to prepare when you’re starting your journey to financial independence. So, based on her goals, we drafted a budget which hopefully will work. We’ve identified which part/s of the budget will be sacrificed/adjusted in case there are expenses that we failed to factor in. I’m looking forward to her first salary because I want to know how that budget would work and if she’s able to commit to it. Mas atat pa ata ako kaysa sa kanya hahhaha! I told her to take advantage of the fact that all she needed to send to her family monthly is for her daughter’s expenses so she has more extra cash to save for her goals. If her allowance permits, I encouraged her to explore her place of employment though.


• Open a savings account and a trust account
I asked her to check with her agency which banks were advisable given her place of employment. It was BPI and PNB. I was initially rooting for BPI so I asked her to go to one of the branches and inquire. The teller told her it was possible and that she just needs to present some documents. However, when she went back to try opening an account, she was denied and was advised to just open a BPInoy account online. Not sure why she got denied. I can’t remember if she told me. Maybe she did but I was so frustrated with BPI that time hahaha! Anyway, she still tried online but with my previous experience with BPI applying online for a regular savings account, I had to wait for weeks before someone got back to me. So, bye BPI. I asked her to go to PNB but there was no more time so PNB was also out of the picture that fast. I was already panicking at that point. She only had June 11 as her free day to open an account as June 12 was a holiday and her tentative flight was June 14. AND SHE MUST HAVE A BANK ACCOUNT BEFORE SHE LEAVES. I don’t want her sending money via remittance centers (I don’t have anything against them, it’s not just my first choice as much as possible) and keeping the rest with her, literally.


So, next option was BDO, which happens to be where my accounts are. With a quick search, I learned that they have Asenso Kabayan account which only requires Php 100 for opening an account. Alleluia! Hahaha! I was not ready to shell out 4-6k for a regular savings account. They also have remittance partners in my niece’s place of employment so she shouldn’t have a hard time depositing later on. We brought all of her documents just to be sure. Unfortunately, the agency still has her passport and her only other ID is a postal ID, with address which the tellers may think that it’s in outer space because it was their first time to hear of it. Anyway, we showed all documents and just let the teller choose which ones she needs to photocopy. I think she got her PDOS certification, NBI clearance, Postal ID and AWAKE ID. We did the usual routine…filled out lengthy forms, answered inquiries and tada! Done with 2 bank accounts. Why 2? One is for her partner’s use while she holds the other one. I was actually eyeing for 3 so that she has another account for her long term goals but the teller said management might question it. Ok, 2 is better than nothing. Enrollment in Online Banking is a must as well.


Next batch of papers was for her trust account. Yes, the reason why I was pushing her to open a bank account was so she can also open a trust account hahaha! Buti na lang masunurin ang bata. So, for her daughter’s college fund, we placed it in a UITF equity fund via BDO’s EIP and their retirement goes to a Balanced fund, also via EIP. Why not both equities? I wish, however, for easier tracking and segregation of funds, we had no choice but to go with those options.


Lastly, authorization form so that I can pick up her UITF COPs on her behalf.


After 3 long hours, we were done. I was so hungry but beyond HAPPY. I even congratulated her for finally having a bank account hehehe.

Side kwento. We opened at my branch of account. Since there was a time in the past that I visited the bank regularly, I became familiar with all the tellers. Unfortunately, the teller assigned to us was new (at least at that branch). After a while though, Ms. Joan (the teller who I’ve talked to in the past) came out. It looks like she was just on break. Anyway, by some fate, it was she who was suddenly attending to us, which was a blessing because first, I had an inkling that my niece’s provincial address might be an issue even though we indicated my address as her present address. Thankfully, she just verified with me and how we are related (we don’t have the same family name since it’s her mom whose my sister) and how long she’s been staying in Manila. I just told her the truth that she just stayed with me during her application. Second, I don’t really know how strict they are in accepting EIP applications. Miss Joan just confirmed whether my niece already knows how EIP works and I told her I have given her a little orientation and the risks that go with it. She accepted that and proceeded in processing the accounts. Lesson learned -- it pays to visit your bank regularly hahaha!


• Set expectations with her family
Here comes the tricky part hahaha! Well I just asked her to as much as possible just focus on her own family and refrain from giving money on a regular basis to her parents and siblings. While it may seem harsh, her parents are still abled and strong enough to work so it shouldn’t be her obligation to feed them now that she’ll be earning a little more. I’m not sure how this will settle with my sister and my brother-in-law once they know that it was I who advised my niece to do that hehehe. But oh well, we should unlearn some things if we want to move forward. BUT we know that asking for money won’t be avoided in the future so part of her budget is an allowance for her parents, to be given ONLY when they ask for it and IF their need is VALID.


• Learn the wonders of the Internet
I bought her a smartphone as a going away gift (at first I was considering of letting her pay for it but then I wanted her to start saving right away so sige na nga, gift na) and have her installed Skype, Viber and other applications she will need.


I taught her how to use BDO’s online banking. We’ve added each other’s account in our list of third party account in case there is a need to use that in the future. Since she has 2 accounts, the game plan is for her to remit to her account, and just transfer her family’s allowance in the other account via online banking. I just hope that remittance charges won’t be that high. She’s lucky her employer allowed her access to their WiFi hehehe.


Taught her how to load online. She has an OWF sim by Smart but it can only be loaded from here. No loading stations there so next best thing to do? Load online hehehe. Mahina naman kasi ang internet sa bundok so for now, texts and calls lang to her family.


• Unlearn some things
Don’t get pressured by having to send a balikbayan box. While it is not bad, I personally believe that saving for their future is much better in the long run than material things. Pinagbaon ko na nga sya ng at least 3 months’ supply of toiletries so that she doesn’t need to spend on these tapos biglang may balikbayan box? Hahaha!


Don’t get pressured to buy pasalubong for the whole barangay. Hassle magbitbit. A few chocolates for the immediate family (like Cadburry for me :p) is fine but not for the whole barangay utang na loob at labas. Good thing a cousin’s husband is not into this so I set him as example.


Live simply, focus on her goals and her savings should remain top secret between herself and her partner at ako na rin bilang alam ko ang password! Nyahaha!


• Others
Learn some skills if she has spare time.
Learn the language and culture of where she is now.
Travel or at least explore the place but make sure she doesn’t screw up her budget.

By the way, hindi na ata domestic helper ang tawag sa kanila. Parang nakita kong OFW for household services na. But I’m not entirely sure. Di ko nabusisi mabuti documents nya dahil ngaragan na.

Ok, enough for now. Malapit nang maging nobela.

Kuwentong OFW: My Niece's New Adventure Has Started

It’s official. My eldest niece is now an OFW. She left for the Middle East last June 20. It was a tough decision for her given that she had to leave behind her 4 year old kid. While her flight’s date was nearing, her deep breaths were becoming frequent as well. I always kid her that there was still time to back out (when she didn’t yet sign any contract) but she would always firmly say that she will push through with her plans. For her, backing out is not an option after all the things that she went through during her application. But I also gently remind her that I believe it was the right opportunity for her. Background, her first option was Malaysia (as per my recommendation, because it’s nearer and maybe I can visit her there when time and budget permits). However, during their orientation, they were informed that cellphones are not allowed in Malaysia for the first 6 months, worse, not at all. She didn’t like it. I didn’t like it too so she immediately switched to Middle East. From there, it was a smooth processing for her until she signed her contract. A friend also asked her if she was interested in Hong Kong but then she already signed her contract when that friend contacted her. So, to me, those were signs that she’s on the right track. 

I must say she’s brave and tough. She lives in the boondocks, and it was literally her first time in Manila but I left her on her own. All I did was fetch her at the bus terminal when she arrived, and  accompanied her to where she will meet up with other applicants who will bring her to their agency’s staff house. She stayed there for a few nights, after which, she stayed with me while waiting for the results. I just fetched her again at the MRT station. If she had to go someplace other than her agency, we just rely on Google for maps and directions or vague instructions from me like go to EDSA, ride an Ayala-bound bus, ask the driver to drop you off at this so and so place hehe. I’m so helpful, I know! But she survived so yeah, good for her. After a week, she said that it was easy to navigate Manila, contrary to what first timers thought and feared. Yabang no? Hahaha!

Anyway, she’s already there. There’s another interesting story upon her arrival but that will be in another blog post.

Dear FutureMe

Have you heard or read about FutureMe.org or are you using it? I learned about it some years ago and have been using it at times. I would usually write a letter to myself to be sent to me months or even a year after. 

So look what I received today! A letter I made last August 2014! Hehe.

And I'm happy to report that indeed I now have a new phone where I paid the required cash out in full. It took me almost 2 years to save up for it but it was not always the priority even then. Pag may sobra lang or kung kayang magdildil asin makapagtabi lang para dito hehe.

Back to 12 Hours

Balik to DST (or non DST, whichever is the right one) na naman pala ang US kaya back to 12 hours difference uli sa timezone. Good to know. No more mega late night meetings, at least for the recurring ones. One hour is a big difference talaga lalo na sa gabi hehe. 

Speaking of timezones - struggle talaga sa akin ito lalo na if hindi EST. A friend even gave me a lengthy lecture about it pero until now, takbo pa rin ako kay Google if kailangan magconvert hehe. Huwell. Maybe I'll still be able to learn it someday...or maybe not. 😂😂😂

Financial Goals for 2015

Happy new year!

My 2015 will still be focused on improving my financial status, hence saving as much as I can. And so, here are my goals.

1. Complete safety fund (6 months' worth) by June 2015. 
2. Religiously pay SK LU. 18 months to go!
3. Save a total of Php 61,500 by end of the year for lot processing/housing fund
4. Maintain 2k/month allocation for BDO EIP until June. Increase to 5k/month by July.
5. Increase MF to 20k
6. Add 10-20k in stock market
7. Save a total of Php 40K for continuation of house construction
8. Attend at least 2 financial seminars.
9. Allocate a daily allowance and put all extra in a jar. This will be used for wants.
10. Continue donation for church construction in my hometown where my mom was active on her last few months with us
11. Set aside a Tulong fund for those unexpected expenses. I have been getting surprise requests since my mom died and it screws up my budget and stresses me out most of the time (all my income down to the last centavo is allocated to something so I really don't have any extra fund which I can let go of anytime). Might as well be ready for things like this.
12. Start saving for an international travel (planning to do backpacking in Europe as a graduation gift for myself when I complete the MTM program). Will initially set aside 2k/month for this.

Will update by mid-year on my status.