Seize The Moment

“There are only two times: NOW and TOO Late.” - Andh Do

Sometime in January while having breakfast with Menchu and Marlon, she came up with the idea that she wanted to go to Vegas on her birthday in March.  When Menchu said that, I didn’t think twice. For someone like her, time is of the essence. After Marlon and I fixed some glitches with our schedules, we booked our tickets. Fast forward to last week, all the fun happened.

Top Photo: L-R Meeting Dondon at the airport; seeing Chef Janjie at Island Pacific;

Bottom Photo: L-R: meeting with Lisa; dinner with Miguel’s family

Menchu and I arrived earlier on Thursday.  We travelled early that morning from Orlando, and made a connecting flight in LA. On our way, we met unexpectedly one of our Deland friends, Earl, who was heading to the Philippines (we parted ways in LA). We had a bit of a delay in our flight to Las Vegas, so by the time we got there, when Ryan (our friend based in Vegas) picked us up at the airport, we were hungry and we went straight to Island Pacific- a Filipino grocery shop that has ready-to-go food. My childhood friend Janjie happened to be the chef on duty there that time, (that I learned when I phoned him while waiting to board our flight in LA), so he got us free dinner while catching up. After that we headed to the hotel to check in. The Mirage was our home for the next few days, I am glad that Menchu booked our room facing the strip so we got a good view. While waiting for Marlon to arrive (who took a later flight from us), Menchu chose to rest, it’s a bonus that it was blue hour so I took some photos of the casinos and hotels from our window.  By the time Marlon came it was late, and instead of heading out, we decided to call it a night to rest since we all travelled earlier that day.

On day two, we woke up on east coast time. It was early, and we started to get up and ready; then took an uber to have breakfast at Chowking- a Filipino food chain that serves Filipino breakfast meal- longganisa (chorizo), bangus (milkfish), siomai (dimsum), and chicken noodle were the ones we ordered. Las Vegas is home to many Filipinos and this is one of the cities in the US that you can enjoy authentic Filipino food. We were like kids in the candy store literally.  Once done, we took another Uber to the Venetian and strolled inside.  We walked around its shopping mall, enjoyed the people riding the gondolas while the gondoliers sing to them.  Of course, we took pictures too! Bob told me on the phone that we were inside this hotel when we were here years ago, but I couldn’t recall it.  Nonetheless, it was enjoyable to experience a Venice-like ambiance here at the Venetian. When we were tired, we headed back up to the hotel and rested.

Shortly after, Ryan came and took us to some 25-minute trip to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. This is such a beautiful place! A total contrast from the hustle and bustle of the strip.  There were trails and hikers that we saw; I wish we had hiked, but we decided not to since some of us were not prepared and we were sort of time constraint since we have a show to catch later that day. Instead, our sight-seeing was consumed by taking a lot of photos as we stopped so much from point to point while driving the scenic loop of the park.

the scenic loop of the Red Rocks Canyon

Top: Menchu, Marlon and I before we watched the live show; Menchu and I at the street of Vegas;

Bottom: Menchu, Ryan and I enjoying a fine dining at Heritage Steakhouse;

Since we scratched the original plan to drive and stay to Zion National Park in Utah, we decided to book a Las Vegas Show instead. When we returned from our sight-seeing trip from the canyon, we refreshed and headed down to our hotel theater and watched “LOVE” by Cirque du Soleil. It is a Beatles-themed live show full of choreographed dancing and acrobatic performances that revolve around a trip through the band’s psychedelic era while rendering their popular and hit songs. It was an hour and a half of totally entertaining show.

The musical fountain show at the Bellagio.

We headed to the strip after the show and ended at Margaritaville to have dinner. Then walked again.  We made a stop at the Bellagio to watch the famous musical fountain show. I could no longer recall most of the things Bob and I did in the strip when we were there the last time, but I was mesmerized by this tourist attraction then, so seeing it once again brought back the excitement. It was nice to see the smiles from my friends’ face as well.  All of us, I should say, enjoyed the dancing fountain. We went to see the inside of the hotel too; I didn’t realize that the theme inside changes.  It was like a fantasy and fairy tale theme (something I couldn’t remember from the last time) and that was an added treat for all of us. Then we headed back to our hotel. 

We have a slow start on Saturday our 3rd day. Tired from the previous day’s busy schedule, we got up and readied around 9ish. My friend and former colleague Lisa, will be picking us up around 10 for a Hawaiian dish brunch at Zippy’s. Food aside, I haven’t seen Liza for so long! So it was a treat both literally and figuratively that we have spent time together. Our brunch went well. We never had a Hawaiian meal before, and I must say- they tasted like Filipino food. We were stuffed when we left.

Enjoying the scenic loop of the Red Rocks Canyon and the strip on Friday night.

We headed back to Lisa’s place when we finished brunch to spend more time catching up.  Then in the afternoon, we went back to the hotel, dropped Menchu off since she had to meet her aunt for their dinner while we headed to the Seven Magic Mountains for a brief photoshoot. This is a new popular “must-see” within the 30-mile range outside the strip. Personally, this is another one hyped by the social media influencers. I could compare this from the stacks of streetlights I saw in LACMA while in Los Angeles two years ago. After a few photo shots,  we went to Miguel’s (another friend who is based in Vegas) house and met his family.  We stayed for dinner and shared some stories.  Then off we went to Freemont Street- the old Vegas strip. Here they have live entertainment, and people were zip lining above us. It was action packed. By the time we finished we were so tired and decided to go back to the hotel and waited for Menchu to return and decided if we still wanted to go walk to the strip again. But the day’s heat combined with jet lag beat us, and little that we know- we all fell asleep with vague recollection of what time Menchu came back.

The Seven Magic Mountains

On Sunday our fourth day,  Marlon left early to meet his friends. He will go to the airport right after that so we said our goodbyes. Menchu, Ryan and I went to Seafood City once again for our Filipino brunch for the nth time😂 (I am now beginning to have withdrawal LOL). And then off to Tule Springs Fossil Beds- a national monument off the strip of Las Vegas too.  There was a hiking trail again I see, but like at Red Rocks, we were not prepared to do hiking- it was noon and hot. Also, it wasn’t as scenic like the Red Rocks Canyon but worth checking out. Shortly after, we headed back to the hotel and rested. Around 5pm we went down the hotel and have a fine dining at the Heritage Steakhouse- a restaurant owned by chef Tom Cholicchio (if you watch Top Chef, he is the resident judge- the stocky, bald one!😂)- to celebrate Menchu’s birthday. Vegas, in my opinion, next to New York- is home of the best chefs around the world because of the Casinos and entertainment. This was the kind of dining I was hoping for since we arrived on day one! Though the food we had so far were also great. The best part of all these dining experiences were the company of each other❤️🙃. After our luscious dinner, We walked inside the Palazzio,  Venetian (again) and Cesar’s Palace to window shop and did some sight-seeing for the last time. It was around nine when we decided to go back to our room.

The following day, was our time to say goodbye to Vegas. Ours wasn’t a “what happened in Vegas, stays in Vegas,” kind of trip; it was a brief, spontaneously planned, seizing the moment kind as we say. But all three of us, in that four short days, were able to meet old friends and relatives, and caught up with them, entertained by the strip, and got to see some nature too.  But most importantly, Menchu had a great time.

A view of the Las Vegas strip at sunset from our hotel window.

Cancun: Not Another New York Minute

When Bob and I planned four our 2024 Cancun Trip, we instantly have Lucia and Shayne in mind to tag along with us.  The challenge was, how are we going to coordinate with them? With their busy schedules.  When I phoned Lucia in October last year, I only asked her two questions- Have you been to Cancun? Would you and Shayne like to go? I remembered, it didn’t take long for her to answer both questions with a thousand percent of enthusiasm, and so Bob and I finalized our Westin reservation for two bedrooms for a 5days/4nights stay on March 3-7 in Lagunamar.

Down the Memory Lane: Lucia and and Shayne’s visit to our home in Cape Cod in 2017. Shayne’s celebrating his birthday. The fun that started It all..

Lucia was my room mate from when I was living in New York City in late 2000s and I know she is always fun to be with when we go out. And when she and Shayne were at the early stage of their relationship, they visited us in our home in Cape Cod. It was a weekend trip to Martha’s  Vineyard and a half day at Craigville Beach on an overcast, New England weather. Everything may be a blur, but Bob and I had a great time at the dinner celebrating Shayne’s Birthday.  That was 2017.  The last all four of us were together; so we are excited to bring that night’s laughter to a five day fun in Cancun.

Lucia and Shayne arrived earlier on Day 1.  They flew direct from Newark and was in Cancun by noon. We got there later in the afternoon from Orlando. They were able to manage to secure us the best room (yet so far) in all our stays in Cancun. Lucia was very good following our instructions- ocean view and above tree level upon check in.😉

The sun, sands, and the sea of Cancun. The view from both our balconies.

Introducing the Pina Colada Crews: all of us enjoying the pool and the beach.

Top (L-R): Day 2 enjoying the pool and the view; Shayne holding one of the many Pina Coladas we drank;

Bottom (L-R): Day 4 under the hut enjoying the beach; Lucia and I at the beach on sunrise.

After we unloaded our luggages we headed to Vento Bar and Grill and had our early dinner. While we’re enjoying our first Mexican meal of the day, we talked about the fun they had while waiting for us to arrive. Shayne must have  said Lucia already had a few of the Pina Coladas while both of them were lounging by the pool- we all had a laugh. Intrigued, Bob and I also ordered Pina Coladas after we had the frozen margaritas. Now we understood why Lucia (I’m sure Shayne too) had a “few.” 🤣

We continued the random chats and updates up at the balcony of our room.  Around 9PM we called it a night- after all it’s been a long day for all of us. It is nice to say that, even though we haven’t get together as frequent as we should be- we take up where we left off.

As always, Cancun always greet us with a beautiful sunrise. Our Day 2 was a no exception. I woke up around 6AM, went down to the ruins of the Yamil Lu’um (Scorpion Ruins) and took a better shot of sunrise with the ruins on the facade. Then I returned to our room. Shortly after, Lucia texted me and she’s already at the poolside and has saved our seat for the day.  I went down to meet with her and walked by the ocean, admired it, and shared how happy we were doing this trip together with our significant others.

Our day was mostly spent by the pool. Enjoying the view of the beach and occasionally swimming in and out while boozing with our now favorite drink- the one and only, Pina Colada! and Oh we had fun using the jacuzzi too!  Bob and I stayed by the pool probably until about 1PM when we both decided to go back to our room (Bob went to the gym, and I took my afternoon nap). Lucia and Shayne opted to stay basking under the sun.

Dinner at Elephant-Thai as we enjoy Junoon Thai. A brief break from the Pina Colada trademark.😉

We all met again at dinner time. Bob and I took Lucia and Shayne to our favorite restaurant, Elephan-Thai. This is one restaurant we never get tired going back to whenever we’re in Cancun and we were happy to share this with both of them too.  We were hoping that we get the hut that directly faces the lagoon to watch an amazing Cancun sunset, but, unfortunately all were taken.  We had the one at the middle which was equally beautiful.  We never had a bad experience with food here- and we’re so glad that Lucia and Shayne enjoyed them too. And for a change, we took a break from Pina Colada and fancied a Junoon Thai for drinks.  We strolled the mall for a bit, then headed back to the resort to get an early rest since we will be up early for our day trip.

Our call time to the lobby is at 730AM.  When all were set, we headed down and waited for our ride that will bring us to Chichen-Itza.  Not too long after our tour guide Primo, greeted and brought us to the van. It was two and a half hour drive to the temple, and we were seated at the last row. We didn’t have windows to look outside (we have to bend down in order to see outside from the seat in front of us), we could barely hear Primo as he talks to us about the Mayans; our only entertainment was the bumpy road that made our butts sore from our seats during the entire trip. LOL.

Pina Colada Crews at Chichén Itzá and Cenote Chukum.

When we got to Chichen Itza the sun was blazing hot. I can remember the first time we were here years ago, it was hot and humid too. We did the usual round about and took pictures of the temple, then Lucia and Shayne decided to find their way out. Meanwhile, Bob and I went to explore some more. The funny thing was, while minding our business, we heard a loud scream from one of the tourists- and we saw that a snake dropped from the trees and almost hit her on the head! What a shocker that was! Then we’re off to the next stop.

We’ve been going to Cancun since 2014, and each time we come we’re brought to different Cenotes- and Chukum is another one that gave us yet a different experience. We (or Bob) jumped and rappelled down in the past, and this time zipline to get into the water.  I (and Lucia) decided to not swim this time. But watching Bob and Shayne do it, almost tempted me to do it too. Ho hum, perhaps next time.

After the cenote experience, we headed for a Mexican buffet. Surprisingly, the food was good as well- specially the pulled pork along with the Mexican rice- yum.🙂 Then we’re off to the next and last stop.

The town of Vallodolid is a quaint town.  Primo said this is the real Mexico; and I kind of agreed with that. Old buildings- the old Spanish architectures all around the vicinity of the town; the quaint plaza with a fountain (I wish there was a water running)… somehow reminded me of old Luneta in Manila when I was growing up.   Lucia and I also explored the colorful building across from the park while Bob and Shayne were resting at the plaza. We looked around the stores (after using the restrooms) and of course another photo shoot! Shortly after we headed back to where the van was parked and up again to the 2.5 hour bumpy ride back.😂 When we finally back to the resort, we had dinner right away at the Duna Sports Bar then to the rooms for the night.

A one superb dinner at Ryoshi with all four of us.

After a long busy day from the previous day, our Day 4 for was exactly the opposite.  Bob and I were attending our owner’s meeting while Lucia and Shayne started their day watching the sunrise in the huts that Lucia reserved as early as 6AM?😂. When we’re done, we joined them relaxing and occasionally going to the water and chatting. Of course it is all accompanied by our favorite drink- Pina Colada! 🤣 By 4PM, we all head back to our rooms to clean up in preparation for: a. Lucia’s LinkedIn profile shoot🤣🤣 and; b. our dinner- the last time for this visit until our next time.

We’ve seen Ryoshi Restaurant when we were in Cancun the last time. Fairly new then, Bob and I never really ventured there since we always go back to the Thai place beside it. After all, we always had a great time and food there. But as we left our dinner the other night from the Thai place, we went to check out the menu at Ryoshi’s. It is a Japanese cuisine and we all thought we should try. And this night was the night.  When all the food we ordered came, this place did not disappoint.  Ryoshi just gave us an exemplary, gastronomical experience on our last night.  The food, the restaurant ambiance, the service (thumb’s up to Axel our host- who’s very attentive to us), the live shows, and the complimentary drinks! Simply put, it was top notch. After the show, we headed back to our hotel rooms and called the night. I felt a bit sad that our vacation is about to end and wished that it won’t.

The following day, we had our breakfast buffet by the resort.  We spent few more times chatting and shared some more laughters then decided to head back to our room and continue packing.  Lucia and Shayne went to the pool to swim a few more laps (that is what Shayne claimed✌️)  for the last time.  Shortly after, we said our goodbyes and then checked out and headed to the airport.

Time went by so quickly as we enjoy our 5 days/4nights get away from our busy schedules, or more of Lucia and Shayne’s busy schedules. Bob and I had a mission when we brought Lucia and Shayne with us- for them to have a relaxing time away from the stress of work and living in a busy environment. We hope they were able to decompress and recharge in this short time; after all, Cancun is not another New York Minute and I am glad that we all got time together to spend another “one for the books” memorable experience.

a stolen shot of Lucia and Shayne slowly strolling at Chichén Itzá. One moment at a time.

Weekend in New England

I was feeling homesick for quite a while and I have been wanting to go and see New England since December. One of my closest friends in Connecticut is celebrating her birthday and it was a perfect timing and excuse to go see and celebrate with her (and our other friends) and, at the same time to satisfy my want of being in NE. And so I booked a trip on February 8.

Portland Headlight house at sunrise on February 10.

Jenna, our friend for almost 20 years is celebrating her birthday in Maine!

The day I arrived was Jenna’s Birthday. She’s also traveling from New York.  After I picked her up at the train station in Milford, we went to David’s house to rest while we waited for him.  We planned for a dinner at a Korean Hotpot that night with another friend, Ulyn. When evening came and David had arrived, all three of us went to meet her at the restaurant.  It was actually Jena’s 51st, but with my frequent forgetfulness, I thought it was her big 50. She didn’t mind celebrating her special day like her milestone though.

The following morning we picked up another friend, Ryan, at the airport and travelled to Portland, Maine. I have been friends with Jenna and David for almost two decades now, and our ride to Maine consisted mostly of reminiscing of what we were as we begin our American dream almost 20 years ago-  thoughts about our former colleagues/room mates and where are they now; the struggles working in one of the badass neighborhood of Connecticut- Bridgeport, and the fun stuffs in between.  It was the shortest three and a half hour ride I had because the stories were non-stop.

We made multiple stops (to eat and pee) before we reached our final destination. We got off to Kennebunkport for the sunset and stroll around town.  Famously known as the summer Whitehouse because the former president Bush’s (the older one)  spent summers here. We took a few photos and bought some souvenirs then we headed to our hotel at dusk. The long day depleted all of us and so we decided to just stay in the hotel, eat the left over and called it a night.

Top Photos: David and Jenna, my friends for almost 2 decades; and Ryan since our university days in UP Diliman.

Bottom: Dinner at the Korean Hotpot in Milford with my BHCC homies!

Top: Exploring Kennebunkport on our way to Portland on Friday.

Bottom: Portland head at Sunrise

Exploring parts of coastal Maine. I woke up at 5AM the following day. All my friends were still asleep, so I tiptoed to get myself ready and walked out the room without disturbing them for my sunrise. It was an 8-mile drive to Cape Elizabeth, where Portland Headlight house is located. this place was beautiful! I could say that this is one of the prettiest lighthouse I have seen.  I spent a significant amount of time moving from one post to another capturing photos and witnessing the sunrise despite the cold and the wind. I left the park when the sun is full on blast. When I returned my friends were having breakfast.

When all were ready to explore, we headed to Old Orchard Beach Pier. This was my first time here; I never been this part of Maine.  Not too long ago Maine was hit by a back to back storms, and  I wasn’t sure if the rogue waves we witnessed were remnants of these storms; but nonetheless, they were mesmerizing to watch. After that we headed to Commercial Street in Downtown Portland to have a drink ( actually just myself) and light lunch of a bowl of clam chowder.  We did a little bit of sight-seeing- walk around town, peek inside local shops, took a photo of the “Welcome to Portland” sign, then we decided to go back to the hotel to take an afternoon nap. Before the day is over, we drove back to Cape Elizabeth to see Portland Lighthouse at sunset. We stayed here for sometime until the park is almost dark, then proceeded to Luke’s Lobster Restaurant in downtown for our lobster dinner as requested by the birthday girl.

On Sunday we went again to Portland headlight house for the last time then drove to Nubble lighthouse in York.  While this is also a beautiful scenery, I prefer the former one personally. We stayed here briefly as we (just Jenna)  encountered a minor mishaft. Then we decided to drive back down to David’s house in Connecticut.  I couldn’t believe how fast the days went by. What a weekend that was.

The casts of Maine Adventure!

Old Orchard Beach Pier

Nubble Lighthouse in York, Maine

The Northeast Adventure of the Tres Amigos

What started just  a casual conversation amongst my work friends became a serious venture a couple of months ago when Casey, one of my work homies who has never been to Boston booked her flight. I followed suit. Then Julie did the same. So two weeks ago for five days, we all flew to Beantown on two separate flights. Julie took off first as she was on an earlier and different flight. Casey and I took the same flight but different seats.

Top: Casey on the plane to Boston; the three of us the the lobby of Omni Parker

Bottom: cannoli from Mike’s Pastry; Lobster Roll from Boston Chowdah

Julie said she’s visited Boston before. I lived in Massachusetts for years and Boston is my backyard so I am no stranger to this town.  But witnessing Casey’s  excitement seeing  Boston for the first time is priceless- a genuine feeling I must say. When we landed at Logan airport, Julie already got the rental car and picked us up and the northeast adventure of the tres amigos began.

Casey’s smiles and giggles continued while in the car as we drove towards downtown. Her reactions and her fascination about my great city was infectious so Julie and I pretty much tagged along. A short drive brought us to Omni Parker House Hotel and checked in.  In retrospect, I have lived in Massachusetts for many years but never had checked in at Omni, there’s just always different choices. It did not disappoint; we have almost the top floor with the view of the city hall. While pointing out, I told both of them that this is where the mighty teams of Boston parade when they win championships; or sometimes a big celebration like Pride. A very good choice of the hotel by Casey- for its location and its historical significance as she’d keep on talking about JFK and Jackie O. had stayed here.

The adventure of the tres amigos began at the Freedom Trail.

We rested  and refreshed for a little bit and then headed out to start the first on our itinerary- to walk the Freedom Trail. We started with King’s. Chapel Burying Ground across from our hotel.  Here lays prominent people of the state of Massachusetts such the likes of John Winthrop (first governor of Massachusetts), Mary Chilton (first European woman to step ashore New England), pilgrims and revolutionary heroes. Then the Boston City Hall to Faneuil Hall and crossed to Quincy Market.  By the entrance, we had a glimpse of the street performers who was putting on a show. We were all hungry so we went inside and grabbed lunch. Sitting at the dome, the center of the market, I introduced both of them to the real New England lobstah  and Chowdah.  I think they both liked that.😊

After that mouth-watering lunch, we proceeded walking following the trail to North End. We went inside Paul Revere House, now a museum that showcases the early life of the revolutionary hero as a silversmith.  Then we walked again. Both instagram (Casey insisted) and Bob told us to get the cannoli at the famous Mike’s Pastries. So we did; we only bought one and shared amongst us by the side of the Paul Revere statue behind the North End Church. And then more walk. As we crossed over Charlestown Bridge, I pointed the TD Garden- the home of the Boston Bruins and Boston Celtics and the Zakim Bridge on the other side.

Left: The North End Church;

Top-Bottom: statue of Paul Revere with the North End church behind; the Paul Revere House; TD Garden

From afar I saw the Bunker Hill monument wrapped with scaffoldings and obviously was under repair but walked towards it. My disappointment quickly went away when we found that it remains open. When the staff asked if we want to climb the tower, I immediately said, “Yes!” Julie was hesitant to go up because she doesn’t do good with the stairs but Casey and I convinced her anyway.  After 294 steps, all three of us along with other tourists, were able to see the city of Boston from the small rectangular peepholes. I just wished it has more open space, clearer windows, sunnier day for us to appreciate the view more. The going down was more challenging to Julie than the going up. We took our time. Casey who bolted down so fast, already rested as she sat outside waiting for us.

Our last stop walking the Freedom Trail was the USS Constitution.  The last time I was here was in 2009 with Bob and my sister during her first visit to Boston. As I reminisce, I was also showing our photos to Casey back then.  While Julie decided to go to the museum, Casey and I explored the decks of this mighty vessel that weathered the War of 1812. When we’re done, we walked the Navy Yard and met with Julie at the museum shop.

We finished our tour of the Freedom Trail walk by grabbing a drink and sitting at the open space of the Anchor enjoying our trip and the view of the Boston skyline. After that, we took the ferry to the wharf and walk our way back to the hotel and rest for couple of hours.

dinner at Earl’s Rooftop Bar with my homies.

It was a damp night. It was Day 1 of our adventure and it is not over yet. I have told both my homies that we will have a nice dinner somewhere in Newbury Street- a swanky neighborhood in Boston, equivalent to 5th Ave of New York or Rodeo Drive in LA.  While walking to Newbury St and admiring town, the rain poured.  We sought shelter at Westin at Copley Square but ended walking the street again until we finally find the foot bridge that connects to Prudential to avoid being more soaked. Casey wasn’t happy. LOL.  Our initial plan to eat somewhere in Newbury was scratched off because of the rain, we looked at Eataly inside the Pru but it was too casual. Roaming around, we found Earls’ Rooftop Bar and so we decided to go and have our Italian dinner here instead. Dinner was spent talking about this trip- how fun it has turned out so far and how satisfied all three of us as we have seen so much considering it’s just the first day.

When it was over, we decided to walk back to the hotel as we enjoy the town. We stopped by at Beantown Pub to have a beer but Casey decided to walk back to the hotel instead as she is already tired. I can’t blame her, we walked a total of almost 12 miles. What a day that was!.

Our upscale dinner the night before was followed by another boujee breakfast on our second day as we have one at Parker’s Pub before checking out.  Casey had this idea, she wanted to know were Jackie O. sat during her date with the late JFK and our server did not disappoint her. We learned it was Table #40 and everyone was happy.😉

L- Head of the Charles Regatta Competition at Charles River;

R- The three of us at John Harvard’s statue in Harvard University

After we checked out we headed to Fenway Park- the home of the Boston Red Sox. Too bad that we only got to see the outside.  There was no tour of the field as there was a memorial happening inside and the entrances are heavily secured. Even then we all had a great time.

The sky was dark with a bit of rain shower on and off on our way to Harvard University. I noticed that Charles River have spectators; then I realized it was the Head of the Charles weekend.  We stopped and watched the yearly regatta competition. When the rain started to pick up, we made our way to Harvard University.  But it was cut short because the rain poured so hard. We got our pictures taken of John Harvard though.

Off to New Hampshire.

I was amazed how Julie navigated Boston traffic. We didn’t have so many crazy turns and one ways in Deland like Boston has; nor we have to switch drivers. She is able to bring all of us safely  outside the city off to New Hampshire for leaf peeping.  The fun part of our drive up north was stopping multiple times. The first one was at the welcome center in Salem, NH- had a photo op with the welcome sign (a Julie’s idea). Then we stopped at Market Basket for lunch. I bought my steamed lobstah- that later I ate in the carh.😂

Top: the view of Lake Winnipesauke in the town of Wolfeboro; one of the cascading falls at Diana’s Bath;

Bottom: The Saco Covered Bridge; the view of foliage in the White Mountains during train ride;

Along the way we stopped at Lake Winnipesaukee; in the town of Wolfeboro.  Not what I have envisioned for a scenic foliage due to the rain, but the colors were still up there. With our umbrella and rain coats we stopped for our photo op. Then drove again. It took us forever to get to our hotel in North Conway.  It seemed that we have been driving all day, not to mention the less road travelled Google map brought us to.

After we have checked in we went to Muddy Moose for dinner.  Bob and I dined here before and he recommended for us to go here too. After a nice dinner we went back to the room and called it a night. Day 3 is another day.

For some reason all three of us woke up early.  As I looked outside, I appreciated the beauty of the mountain we’re staying at. Colors are at their peak. It was still overcast but glad there wasn’t any rain like yesterday. Not just yet. We went down to have our breakfast then got ready after for our day adventure.

The steam train we rode stopped in Crawford, NH ; Top: photo-op before the train left;

Bottom: myself and Casey, like kids in a candy store admiring the beauty of White Mountains

Our scenic train ride was not until 1130AM and we have ample time to spend.  Casey was Instagram researching the night before so we decided to check out two locations she suggested- Diana’s Bath and Cathedral Ledge; both in Bartlett, a neighboring town.  We followed a trail to Diana’s bath. A combination of walking and a short hike brought us to a nice series of water falls.  We stayed here for a bit to both enjoy the scenery and take photos. Then off to Cathedral Ledge.

The drive up to Cathedral Ledge reminded me of driving Mt. Wachusett in Princeton, MA. Winding and enjoyable. Up the summit we were rewarded with a panoramic foliage view overlooking the white mountains. It’s so pretty up here! Our hearts were full.

The Conway scenic train was the highlight of our third day. A five hour ride at the white mountains- from North Conway to Crawford- such a spectacular experience; like a kid in a candy store. Most of the ride was raining and it was cold but the beauty of the mountains was just pure, and simply amazing. Bob and I have driven the white mountains many times, but this experience my friends and I was extra ordinaire.  The five hour train ride made us so hungry and tired. When we got off, we had dinner at Red Parka Pub.  After that, we settled back in the hotel and called the night off.

The scenic Kancamangus Highway in New Hampshire

Monday, our fourth day we had flexible schedule. What originally intended a ride to Flume Gorge turned out to be just a hop on hop off on our own terms. Julie may not be fond of it (she’s behind the wheels), but we did it anyway.  We first stopped at Echo Lake. Peaceful and serene, I took my camera out to do some long exposure while I let the two do their own things. It has a beautiful facade of the Cathedral Ledge that we enjoyed briefly until other tourists came. This reminded me of the Hathaway’s Pond in Cape Cod. Then we drove back to Main Street for the last time to buy our souvenirs.

The next hours were spent driving by the Kancamangus Highway.  I could say that this was the best ride I have of the scenic Kancamangus.  From North Conway to Lincoln, it was a  feast to the eyes.  Our first stop was Saco River Covered Bridge.  It took me a while to come back since I was photographing and I got scolded by consuming so much time from doing so😂. Then some more photos to the Swift River, but this time short and within the five minute grace period Julie had given me😂😂. Next was the Rocky Gorge; a scenic area with a foot bridge over the gorge which overlooks where Swift River narrows as it cascades to the gorge. Then to Sabaday Falls- another beautiful falls that I regretted not setting up my camera; I am glad I still have decent battery in my phone. The rest of the day are just basically driving and admiring the sceneries alongside the road.  Then it sank in, we were no longer in New Hampshire.

stolen shot of my homies in one of our walks in Lincoln, NH.

The last remaining hours we have on Monday was spent mainly at the hotel premise which overlooks the financial district of Boston. We were by the harbor. Once again, Julie and I both gave Casey a credit for booking this Hyatt Hotel. Top floor, harbor view, perfection! It was just so mesmerizing that we never left the room after we put down our luggages- we’re  just there watching the sun set. It was  mesmerizing that all three of us was recording it in our phone in time lapse. Once the sun was gone, we decided to get and eat our dinner- another boujee New England one for the last time.

our last night in Boston Harbor, I took advantage of our location and sneaked out to take this beautiful photo of Boston’s financial district.

and just like that, we ended our trip in my driveway with a group hug! ❤️❤️❤️

VANCOUVER: I SMILE EVEN WHEN IT RAINS

My obligatory photo at a Canadian sign in Victoria, BC

Two weeks ago, after four days of long and daunting time at work, I started my 6-day trip to Vancouver. I knew I was lacking sleep, and still tired from the days I worked, but I looked forward to this trip for the reason that, I am eager to see Remy; my very dear friend in Connecticut that moved to Canada in 2013. Another reason is that, I am also excited to explore Vancouver. They say it is wonderful.

My flight from Orlando to Dallas was an early flight. I had to wake up at 230AM as my flight leaves at 530AM. With the unpredictability of the airport lines at TSA, I had my friend Bhin brought me to the airport instead of Bob and left early. It was a smooth three-hour flight. Dallas was cloudy and overcast. Little that I know, this was also my preparatory to Vancouver weather 😉. The four-hour flight to Vancouver went fast as I slept mostly. The last thing I knew I was already queueing to the Canadian immigration and customs.

As I exited the airport, I finally met Remy once again. As I said, she’s one of my few good friends back when I was still working in Bridgeport. As a new nurse coming from the Philippines in mid 2000s, Remy helped me navigate the challenges of working overseas. She is among the many individuals that made an impact in my nursing career. She’s my house mate, my shopping/outlet buddy, (along with Irna and Ulyn); our “mother away from home” as she gives advice to almost each one of us like our true Moms. She is that one friend that you don’t see often (literally 10 years!), but when you finally reconnect, it all feels like yesterday.

After the meet and greet at the airport with her and his husband Ruel, we left and drove around the city. We were headed for lunch first. While driving, I noticed immediately the strong east Asian presence around; at one point I joked, “are you sure I am in Vancouver and not Seoul?” They both agreed.  As we parked the car, we walked in at Cloud 9- Chinese restaurant. I remembered right away that Chinese cuisine is Remy’s go to food😂. It brings memories of what we were a more than a decade ago- the window (or actual) shopping in the malls and straight to the Chinese food in the food court for a three course tray- good times!

Canada Place, Vancouver BC

Science World and Canada Place.  Once done with lunch, we headed to the city proper. We walked around Science World while waiting for Remy’s daughter Daniela. Science World Vancouver is a nice place, there are so much things to do- I saw group of people playing volleyball, kids at the playground, and rowers and kayakers even its 40degrees! it must be great to be here during summer. This center overlooks the beautiful False Creek. While admiring the sceneries, I am also mentally studying what to do after dusk with my camera. When Daniela arrived, she took us to the commuter train and headed to Canada place.  Walk around a bit more, then to the Korean restaurant to eat dinner.  Yes! this is the second asian place in a span of four hours! By the time we were done, it was past 9PM, (which means midnight in the eastcoast time) and as much as I’d like to stroll more, I was too tired from the past four days of working and my early travel, so we decided to head home and called it a day.

The following day I woke up early since I was in the east coast time. This is my day 2. When I came out of my room, Remy was making breakfast, so I decided to chat with her as she cooks in the kitchen.  After we ate, she and Ruel took me to a tour around their town. Coquitlam  is quite a unique town. It is too big of a town but small enough to be a city if this makes sense. It reminded me of Lake George area in the Adirondacks with the big body of water. We walked at Port Moody Marina. I took the opportunity to take photos of the board walk and the lake.  The forecast was once again cloudy and thirty percent rain, so after a few shots I put away my camera and we headed back to the car and rested at home.

Lunch with Remy’s family.

We planned to go to Sea and Sky Gondola and have a quick hike at Squamish. When Daniela arrived from work, we didn’t waste time and headed out right away. For some reason, as she drove the highway, I felt somehow sick. I felt like someone punched me in the gut and a cold wind blown my face as I feel nauseous.  I asked Daniela to drive in a nearby exit as I needed to get out of the car. I was having a full on “Bridesmaids crisis.”  For those who never seen the movie, what I was referencing and experiencing at that moment was similar to what all the characters were experiencing at the bridal shop after they ate at the Brazilian restaurant. Yes, exactly! Daniela pulled over the side of a busy traffic, there I was vomiting shamelessly, on the side of the road. Probably my most unforgettable experience of Vancouver. 😂

When we arrived at the park, I was too weak to get out.  I didn’t want to ruin the plan; so with all my strength, I got out of the car only to vomit the second time around. I saw the faces of concerns from all three of them. At this point,  I decided to no longer go and ride the Gondola. They wanted to cancel too, but told them to go and I will wait in the car to rest my stomach. I made few trips to the bathroom and a couple more episodes of vomiting while they were gone. When they came back, I was debating to be sent to the ER- I knew then I was suffering from Acute Gastroenteritis. But of course, as any stubborn nurses, I didn’t- because it was Friday and it was the weekend!

We headed back home. Remy, as usual became the mother once again and cooked some hot fish soup while I took a nap. I woke up as she knocked on my room saying that dinner was ready.  I only took a small amount of the broth and stuck with drinking my Gatorade. I stayed for little chats and headed to bed after a while. Tomorrow was another day.

Remy and I at the top of area of Stanley Park overlooking the other side of Vancouver.

Light Point Lighthouse and Stanley Park. When I woke up the following day, as if nothing happened except the fact that I was hungry. I did eat breakfast, but very cautiously as I did not want to experience what happened the previous day again. When we were all set, we headed out. The drive was short this time. The road was winding with beautiful view of course.  Our first destination was the Light Point Park.  No expectations; but when we parked our car, the facade reminded me of one of the hiking areas in Yosemite.  The walk to the lighthouse was a mile, and it was funny to see and hear Remy say that this was her first major hike (laugh out loud!). Her daughter Daniela and husband just both laugh.

The park and the lighthouses were beautiful; just like those in Cape Cod. Too bad that the lighthouse was not accessible like the ones from the Cape. After some personal photo shoots, we walked through the trails that brought us to the beach side where you can see the Vancouver skyscrapers- which by the way, is equally admirable. After about little over an hour of roaming around the park, we decided to drive within the area for lunch. Asian food for lunch? Anyone? Hahaha.  We decided to eat Japanese cuisine (I was still nervous on eating just anything at this time though) and once we’re done, we headed to Stanley Park.

We began our sightseeing on the top.  This time it was overlooking the opposite side of Vancouver (the first area we went to earlier this morning). Vancouver is growing now on me; indeed this is a beautiful city. I can understand now why they say it is wonderful even when it rains a lot. After some time, we headed down the lower part of the park. There we saw the Vancouver Rowing House- which is a Marina that overlooks the tall buildings of Vancouver. I’ve been noticing that there were so many commercial shipping vessels too, then I remembered (as I worked in a forwarding company in early 1990’s) that vancouver is one of the busiest ports in North America. We also saw some totem poles on the other side of the park. Monumental poles commonly seen in the Pacific Northwest. When we were done, we headed to our hotel to check in and put our bags. Then headed to Wooden Fish, a Vietnamese restaurant for dinner (Asian dish again of course!). When we headed back to the hotel, we had one final look of Vancouver at night. 🙂

the marina at Vancouver Rowing house that overlooks the high-rise buildings of Vancouver

We Woke up early on our day 4 as we had a 7AM reservation for the ferry ride to Victoria Island.  As we drove towards Tsawwassen ferry station, we were greeted by a very colorful Vancouver sunrise.  I was hoping that this will be the case throughout our stay in the island, but it wasn’t… Ho-hum. The drive was an hour trip, it gave us ample time to see the fullness of sunrise, have a cup of coffee and just waited until we boarded.  The ferry ride reminded me of when we go for a day trip in Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts. I suddenly miss living in Cape Cod. The ride was fascinating. There were little islands on both sides; with houses and no people around (as I didn't see any). Obviously, these must be summer homes.  As we docked and started offloading from the ferry, there I see the uniqueness of  Victoria Island. I am impressed. Vancouver is really wonderful!

The Harley Castle, Victoria BC

Our first stop was Hatley castle.  This architecture is interesting as it is part of the school, the Royal Roads University. On our way inside the premise we saw runners as there was a road race that moment. We were redirected to park our car elsewhere as the lower ground parking was not available. Once again, Remy had a good hike with the steep hill😬. We didn’t get to see the inside as they are only open for tour from late spring to end of summer. The castle ground though was beautiful enough to admire.  It was pretty much a tour only by ourselves as there were no other visitors that flocked the castle.  Perhaps being early, and the rain had helped too. If I was too slow because I take a lot of pictures, I think Daniela broke my record as she spent so much time taking photos of mostly every corner of the castle🤣. At the bottom of the Royal Roads University was a picturesque view of the water.  This is really a beautiful place.

It was almost noontime when we headed to our hotel and checked in. We put our bags down and headed back outside again to eat lunch. Finally, we had Canadian/American Food! When we were done, we walked the quaint Main Street of Victoria, going in and out of every novelty shops while admiring the town. The rain started to pick up once again, and we all got tired so we decided to head back to our hotel and napped and rested. 

Victoria Parliament after sunset. Victoria BC 03/12/2023

When we woke up it was already dark. Remy and her family were reluctant to go out again. But I have a mission- I wanted to photograph the parliament at dark with lights.  While they were deciding what to order for dinner, I went out. As I walked the street of downtown, the rain was pouring too.  I was hoping it would stop totally but it only did briefly.  This was when I took the opportunity to photograph the Victoria Parliament and the other landscapes like the Fairmont Hotel’s reflections by the water. Shortly after, it rained again.  It was then I decided to call it a night and just go back to the hotel to spend time with Remy and her family.

On our last day in Victoria, the sun finally showed up; atleast for couple of hours.  We went to the local diner for breakfast then did the self-guided tour of the inside of the Parliament. It was nice to see what is inside and learn about the Canadian Parliament. The highlight of my day was a photo of myself and the late queen’s portrait ( sadly King Charles is still not in any of the official portraits). After our tour, we went back to the hotel, and completely checked out and started our journey back to Coquitlam.

When we got home it was almost dinner time. I started packing my bags and once done, had a wonderful home-cooked dinner with Remy’s family. I am so happy and blessed to see my friend Remy once again. I am grateful for the warm hospital her entire family showered me during my stay.

I can’t believe that my six day trip to Vancouver went so fast just like that. Although it was mostly wet during the entire time I was here, I still smile even when it rains.

the reflection of the Fairmont Empress Hotel. Victoria BC, Canada 03/12/2023

Homage to Ronald

On November 20 I lost my friend, my best man, Ronald. I was on the way to the hospital from work to see him when I received a text message from his son Fian that his dad passed away at 5.17PM.  I knew this was coming. We- his friends and family have anticipated this… but not this fast.  

 February of this year when Ronald/Ron/Bons/Dadi was officially diagnosed of Stage 3 Thoracic Cancer.  What a simple headache, some slight difficulty of hearing and a feeling similar to tinnitus, lead us to arrange a doctor’s appointment. Then that was that- a benign tumor that officiated a rigorous chemotherapy and radiation that lasted for nine months. When all we thought he survived cancer as he was told he’s in remission, we were hit by a cold news that his cancer had spread to his spinal cord and meninges after a trip to the emergency because he suddenly couldn’t walk. Our disbeliefs were indescribable. Our sense of peace and gratefulness were short lived- lasted not even two weeks. 

Our last getaway together with our other friends. Circa 2007. San Juan La Union.

 I’ve known Ronald as long as I’ve known his wife Michelle (she was and still is my best friend as she passed in 2018).  Back in the Philippines, in my tiny little apartment was where all we gather. He was our chauffer- he would drive as anywhere the entire crew would go. We have great memories of so many weekend getaways. When I moved to United States in 2007, they followed suit.  Though we lived in two different states (I was in Massachusetts while they are in Florida), our friendship which already transcends to being family, stayed stronger. Each time we get the chance, we visit each other. I have visited Florida so many times to see them.  I spent many long weekends here, in Deland before finally deciding to permanently move in 2019. 

The Labiste’s in Massachusetts in June 2013. Sight-seeing before Bob and I got married. Old Stone Church, West Boylston. .

One of my many visits in Deland with the Labiste’s Circa 2012.

Ronald was a strong man. When his wife was diagnosed with cancer in 2014, I never heard nor seen him complain.  He was able to juggle tending to her treatments and personal needs while keeping a full-time job and being a father to Fian all at the same time.  For four years he did what he thought was best until she succumbed to her illness in mid 2018. 

Ronald was a man of many talents.  He and I, like his wife have shared so many great memories.  We ride the bike together. He was a great cook. It was from him I learned to cook Japchae (Korean noodle).   He played guitar, and I sing the songs.  We both love the same genres as we grew up listening to the same bands so he knew what he will play to get me going.  On Thursday, November 19th I was in his house with Fian. I was the on-duty friend.  He didn’t play guitar- we just listened to Imusic on TV. Oddly enough, James Taylor’s You’ve Got a Friend was the song I only remember playing in retrospect. This was also the last I saw him awake and coherent. We didn’t speak, I only held his hands. I knew in my heart we have understood each other.  

One of the images Ronald captured of me while shooting sunrise. Often times I feel that he was a better photographer than myself. Daytona Beach 2019.

 I have not shot sunrise in the last five weeks.  Sunrise was also significant to me and Ronald since I moved to Florida.  He was my sunrise buddy.  Not most people (including my husband) like waking up early mornings (my call time is always between 4-5AM).  Ronald didn’t mind.  If I was lucky, he will drive to the destination too. If I was extra lucky, I get stolen shots of me taking photos from him! He was also a great photographer by the way.  The past few days I was scrolling my phone to check where was the most recent sunrise Ronald and I went together (but only found the last was in November 2020 in Flagler Beach) so I could include it here. 

As I previously mentioned, my photography has been my way of coping with all the things going on my life- good or bad, happy and sad.  The past two weeks has been very difficult as I lost Ronald.  Yet I have to compartmentalized my emotions in order to function rightfully. On Thursday, during my day off, I decided to pack my camera and drive to Flagler Beach to begin my healing as part of my grieving process. I thought I would never see the sun as it was totally overcast. I flew my drone and almost lost it and put it away when I found it. I took my camera out and just took shots of the Christmas lights. After over an hour, I decided to head to my car to go home. But as I sat on my seat, and looked outside, there was a brief moment that the sun peeked out of the thick clouds. I pulled my camera out and captured that magical moment the same spot I had the last sunrise with Dadi. Yes I saw the sunrise and it meant I felt his presence once again.

Sunrise with Ronald, Flagler Beach 2020.

Sunrise at Flagler Beach. December 09, 2021

RETRACING MY FOOTSTEPS

January is synonymous to beginnings. Aside from the fact that it is the first month of the year, to many it is also a new start. And for some like me, January is also a great time to look back from where and how I started and reflect on what I have become. 

Christmas 2018 (and New Year) carried forward some good things to me as  2019 started. One of such was being virtually reunited with my highschool classmates and friends (through Facebook). Our high school batch’s 25th Year/Silver anniversary paved way to meeting my classmates again whom I lost contacts with since graduating high school. Though, I kept in touch with few, it is only this year that I actually reconnected to almost all of them. It feels good to keep updates about each others’ lives and recollect high school’s most memorable antics. 

I tend to believe that I had the best childhood. And last night, out of the blue I received an invitation from someone who created a Facebook group chat  with the group name (CMC One Big Fight) I am very familiar with growing up. One of my childhood friends made it. Since he has limited contact to all of us, the initial group of four immediately became the complete fourteen people as everyone added others whom they have contact to. I can’t believe that fourteen friends who grew up together in a small residential compound and separated because of life’s constant changes are now virtually connected again. This reconnection’s  timing was perfect! Winter blues kick in occasionally and with the group’s active conversations and sharing of photos from when we were growing up (kudos to Zaldy who was able to preserve these photos) certainly ease the homesickness.

Two weeks ago I decided to make a weekend trip to New York City mainly to capture Brooklyn’s Landscape. As I was on the train, it passed through Bridgeport, CT and I started feeling nostalgic about what and where was I more than a decade ago.  Bridgeport will always be special to me. This is where my career as a nurse all started- where I learned so much about caring and compassion and realistic approach to life’s situation. This is also where I met some great people and my truest friends whom I proudly can say for keeps. The nostalgia brought me to contact and create a group chat with my old colleagues whom I lived (and worked) with in one building we called Annex. The chat lasted only briefly as almost all of us are living in different time zones. For that brief period of time though, it made me feel as if we were in the common living room of the Annex building again.

And I was finally back in New York City for this time being. Not that I have not visited NYC since I left, but this time I felt this is something special than my previous revisits. A year ago I started taking photography seriously, and having New York City as one of the places I first live at when I moved in the US, I thought I ought to capture its own beauty. My goal is to capture the sunrise in Brooklyn Bridge. As I rode the subway going there, I also passed through familiar places I once enjoyed while living in this unique city. From Grand Central Station to Wall Street and to finally to Brooklyn Bridge- which I walked perhaps hundreds of times. I got at the bridge just in time when the sun was just beginning to light up the city that never sleeps. I spent a good hour to witness the magnificent reflections of the sun rays to New York’s towering skyscrapers, uttered some gratitude to this life I currently have which not many people experience. I am indeed thankful to this short trip as I retraced my footsteps. 

Sunrise at Brooklyn Bridge, NY 01.11.2019

BEHIND THE INSPIRATION

Perhaps you may be wondering why my first blog is just an ordinary picture. Why not a photo of a beautiful landscape? a unique shot of something? or anything that is just impressive.  So many whys.. but here is why. 

This is a photo of me and Michelle; my bestfriend of 23 years.  I lost her from Ovarian Cancer which she battled for four years.  I lost her recently, exactly a month ago (we laid her to rest) as I published this first ever blog I created- and she was my inspiration.  She was and still is, in so many things- including photography.  

I have never taken photography seriously a great deal since high school (Photography was my elective in junior high). Yes, I owned cameras in the past- mostly the isometric ones when I was growing up. The ones you put films in them and develop in a photo lab later, hoping you captured great pictures. When digital cameras came into play in early 2000's the first person to own one that I knew was Michelle. She had the Sony digital camera; and we both loved how easy to take images with it without being worried of how much films we wasted. Then I got mine.  From then on, we took many pictures together of almost everything.  Photos of our loved ones and places we go together.  

I would like to think that I take good images, but I never considered to take it seriously. Photography has been placed in the back burner- as my life like many of you, is also busy juggling between work and domestic chores. In other words- I have no time. But not until recently, I found the passion again.  Having to go through with a lot of personal experiences and challenges in my life (my Mom and our cat Hank passing and two friends diagnosed with terminal disease one of whom was Michelle) in the last few years changed my overall life's perspective. It also bring the old time passion which I always like to do but never had the time- Photography. It has become my catharsis. My scapegoat to forget the sad experiences and at the same time heal my broken heart from the pain of losing my love ones.  In one of the birthday wishes Michelle gave me, she wrote me that she is encapsulating all our good memories in our hearts so that we will always have something we could turn to when we need respite from the outside world. That is exactly what photography does for me.  It has become my respite. 

I also feel I am more inspired now because I have a purpose- to capture the beauty of everything, that later I can rekindle even without being in the physical presence of the images- whether it's a person, a place or a thing. Just like this photo in this first blog.  In a typical photography critique class, this photo is an over exposed shot. But to every picture it has its story. This by far, is one of my favorite photos that was taken of me and Michelle- our very first trip to Miami, Florida in 2012. There were lots of fond memories it entailed in how exactly we ended there. But what I like most with this photo  is the way it captured both our smile while looking at another camera (and not really the one that took the shot). The face of happiness is as genuine as our friendship. Truly an inspiration. 

Michelle and I. First trip to Miami. February 2012.