Road to Graduation

(Taken: Feb 12, 2015)

“Life Is Like A Carnival Ride, It Has Its Ups, Its Downs, And All Its Twerks. But We All Know That In The End It Was Fun And Worth The Wild Ride” -Terrin White

I'm on my last days of my stay here in our university. And now, I can feel the pressure and the stress from my thesis. I have some free time, but I'm too tired to make a life out of it. I guess my thesis life has isolated me from the world. Doing thesis is literally draining- physically, mentally and spiritually. I remembered what my thesis adviser told us during our consultation, "Don't let your thesis manage you, you manage your thesis". She also told us that our lives doesn't only revolve around writing thesis and doing experiments, life means something more. Though I often forgot that I still have life outside. In addition, balancing life is important -social, physical and spiritual to be more productive.

In spite of her advises, the situation hadn't gotten better. My experiment is so long and full of uncertainties. I don't know what's waiting for me, but what I know is that I have to have good results and accomplish everything on second week of April. But I'm too exhausted. I'm tired of going to the lab and doing experiments. By the way, I do microbial and chemical analysis in the lab. Mind you that it's no joke. I can't imagine my life doing things like those everyday. The smell of agar still stinks in my nose even when I'm at home. I don't know, there are just times that I just want to end everything, I want to give up. You know that feeling when all you want to do is to watch how the skies changes colors and how the birds fly freely. My mind is always occupied of worries and anxiety. Time passes quickly and it's March and I'm not even half way through it. I'm not sure how, but what I know is that I will graduate this June 2016. No matter how impossible it is to finish everything with so little time, I will graduate this June 2016. And I'm claiming it. You know that determination when everything is against you, well I'm learning how to do it.

Here are the things that I've learned while doing my thesis: (This might come in handy for you readers)

1. The importance of planning

2. Researching and researching

3. Don't hesitate to ask questions when in doubt. It's always better to ask and be sure than doing the wrong things all the way

3. Be patient with the people whom you are interacting (especially in laboratories)

4. Read and understand the methods

5. Scheduling of activities (laboratory experiment). In my case, I learned to put the exact time of the day to when to conduct the specific experiment.

6. Asking for the divine intervention. No matter how hard you research and followed the methods, sometimes, time won't favor you. Certain things may arise that may cause errors to your experiment. I know it, been there.

Failing is a part of doing the experiment. I've failed to understand and meditate the instructions, causing me to repeat it all over again. But hey, the more I fail, the more I learn. Doing my experiments has challenged my whole being. I learned the importance of positivity and supernatural faith. Graduating from my UP is not easy as 1,2,3 or as simple as A,B,C for though there may be ups and downs, at the end of the day, I know that this thing is worth it.

We all have stories to tell, I wonder what's yours.

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Unlearning to Learn.

Hello readers! I just turned 20 last week and I feel great! It feels great to be 20. Well yeah, it also feels good to be a teenager. It’s just sad to say that I am no longer a “teenager” as what my age dictates, but I am pretty sure that I still look  like one. I spent my birthday with few of my closest friends; they are actually my high school friends which I have created a strong bond with. I treat them out to somewhere and ate some pizza. It’s actually my first time to treat my friends out in my birthday while spending my own money! Oh yeah, I’m not really the kind of person who treats their friends in their birthdays. Maybe spending money is just not my thing or something. But yeah! I deviate in my birthday and spent some money. Well I guess it’s not bad to spend money for happiness. I think it’s quite fun, especially that I am with the people whom I love most. They are not the best people in the world but they are the ones who love me and would never judge me. I was touched by the people who heartedly greeted me because only few people remembered it since I did not put my birth date public in facebook. 

One of my best friends gave a sweet gift, a balloon, a sweet marshmallow and a thing that has “you are special” on it and I was really touched. In addition, my birthday was extra special because something happened just a day before that. I realized a lot of things because a friend of mine shared something about God and I was enlightened by his love. You know, I was fed by his spiritual love and it feels different. I felt light and happy in my birthday.

My birthday realizations...

There are a lot of realizations that I made in my 20 years of existence. You know some deep thoughts about anything in and out of this world. I learned the other week that in order to learn, you must learn to unlearn things. Unlearning to Learn. That is the idea! It may sound silly but it’s really witty. As we can see, our lives become a routine. We go to school, eat our lunch, go to classes then go home. It’s a cycle and we do it because we need it. We need to pass or we need to have a salary. In that way, life becomes monotonous. It becomes uninteresting and boring, which is very different from a child’s point of view of the world. Children are always amazed by everything. They are amazed by how the sky is blue, why the dogs bark, why the trees are green and so on. They are amazed by the simple things in life like how the birds fly. Those things are silly in an adult’s mind.

In a point of view of an alien, our world is interesting simply because it’s different from their own perspective. In that way, they will learn a lot just by observing and gain new knowledge and a new perspective from the environment. That is how we are supposed to look at our world. We need to defamiliarize. If we defamiliarize ourselves that the sky is blue, then we will see a new picture, a new perspective. We way we see our world is different from the way an alien sees it. We become unbiased with our thoughts and become open for new ideas. In this way, you’ll learn how to appreciate life and understand life more. It is something that is needed to be developed but it is often the most neglected.

A sad reality in these days is that the essential things are often forgotten because people tend to focus more on their wants, rather than their needs. People tend to be shallow when we talk about life. They have forgotten the art of life and how it goes.

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Backreads from 2014.

December Blissfulness

Hi readers! I will begin this year by reminiscing the moments that had the greatest impact to me last 2014. Well, 2014 was a blast. I never thought that my addiction to music would help me meet some of the famous pinoy performers. I was greatly inspired by them and so I am taking little steps to improve myself and my band. Next, I never ever thought that my blogging career would boom this year. My once just an escape became a stepping stone to something beautiful. I am now being invited to different events such as food tasting, press conference, product launching and a lot more that has something to do with the media. With that, I had the opportunity to meet new faces with the same interests ( this is where I met #3J) and to experience something new.

February- I was one of the lucky participants of the Colgate Fresh Jam where I met some of the famous and renowned artists in the Philippine music industry as of today. I met Eunice, Mong Alcaraz, Miggy Chavez, Kean and Abra. Well, until now, I still can't believe that I became a part of that experience. It's mind blowing!

Here a picture of me with the whole cast. #TeamMong

March- I discovered Davao Bloggers and had my first event at the Max's. I was so amused meeting people from the same place with the same interests! Well my first experience with them is memorable because they are so kind and approachable. I was hesistant at first to join this event because I never had this experience before (to be invited to a blogger's night), and I was afraid. Well, if I didn't had the guts to join the event, if I didn't told myself that "I can do it", maybe everything would be different and I could be less happier.

I never thought my life would be this oh-so-good. I also met new friends. Also, because of Davao bloggers, I have the inspiration to keep on blogging.

Photo from the Davao bloggers page

April- This was the start of my four-months vacation, thanks to the calendar shift. Our agony as students will be prolonged! April 22- when I started Taekwondo but stopped at August.

August- I met the #3J (Jonas and Kevin). I never thought that I'll be this close to them because they are my first friends which didn't came from the same school. We all have random personalities but clicked in. They are my blogger friends and they are seriously crazy. They love serious jokes! Also, I spent kadayawan in Streets after years! I cant even remember when was that thanks to these two fellas who has a blast with me.

Photo by Jonas

This is also the start of our classes. Hmmm, nothing special about that.

September- Event at Tagum. Visited Banana Beach Resort and Lanikai.

October- Two of my closest friends namely Lea and Carl had their birthdays celebrate with us (Yowmehn Republic - this is what we label our group). Lea's birthday celebration was at Yakimix, while Carl's at Vikings. Lucky me! It was my first time to try those restaurants.

This is also the month when our band, Insta, first played at the UP ground. We covered Pompeii and I forgot the other one. That is just one of the best moments though there's still a big room for improvement. See my last post here.

December- Had two family reunions and some reunion with friends. Got presents from my friends and family. 

To wrap up everything, I would like to thank everyone who became a part of my year, special mention to the Yowmehn Republic (plus Carl)- Jaiza, Lea, Massy and Kath and also, to #3J (my newly formed group) Jonas and Kevin. To my college pals ( Eunz, JP, Shiela, Angela and more), especially to Ange who was with me through thick and thin. To my bandmates, who never failed to believe in me. To the Davao Bloggers which welcomed me warmly. To my supportive and loving family, thank you for being my inspiration. To my dogs who loves to lick me and tickle me.

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Yakimix & Vikings with Best friends.

 My food reviews can be found on my lifestyle blog {www.madayawdavao.wordpress.com}.

Before the month of November ended, two of my best friends namely Carl (Oct. 27) and Leamie (Oct. 15) had their birthday blast! The top three photos were taken at Yakimix in Davao City. Well, that was my first time to try such kind of buffet. It was a blast because the flavorings of the different meat choices are bombarded with different kinds of aroma and twisted tastes! Every bite could give you a whole different kind of experience. You can taste a lot of tastes! Some of the meats that I’ve tried are sweet, spicy, and full of aroma. It was my first time to try such thing. Of course, some of the meats are presented raw but the flavorings are already mixed to the meat. You’re actually the one who’s going to grill.

The other three pictures were taken at Vikings in SM Lanang, Davao. Vikings is one of the most known buffets we have here in our city because it offers luxurious dishes, along with it is its high price. Hmmm, I’m not into spending so I can’t afford to try every restaurant with high prices. With that, it was my first time to try it. Guess what! It’s heaven! All dishes that you can think of are there! I even tried jelly fish. It was weird because it has a rubber kind of feeling. I have not taken a picture of it in which I regretted but I really enjoyed it!

I just feel happy because among of their friends, they chose to celebrate it with us. We are in college and we have bonded and gained lots of new friends but we are still close like we used to. Every time we are together, I tend to forget that we’re college students and not high school anymore. I think when you have someone or a group of friends or people in which you can be the true you and don’t judge you, don’t let them go. Most people these days judge you for who you are, but treasure people who will accept the true you.

Best friends: Carl, Lea, Jaiza and Me. (Massy, Shajanie and Kathrina arent in the picture too sad) Photo by: Jaiza

It really is difficult to find true friends in college (based on what I have experienced). In college, you and your classmates have different priorities, goals, likes and dislikes. People tend to be more mature in a sense that you are limited to what to show from yourself. Yes, there are real pals out there but hey, you are no longer in high school, people are so busy preparing for their future. Well, I’m greatly attached to my high school buddies though we rarely meet in a year.

Because things have changed since we graduated from high school. We grew, got different college degrees, had a bunch of new friends, different priorities and etc. I, on the other hand, became more comfortable when alone. Well, most of times, I am alone, at school, at the mall or somewhere. Though I’m happy when I’m all alone, my high school buddies reminds me what it is to be with the people whom you call "best friends".

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My kind of student life in UP.

I've been really busy these past few weeks. First, I'm busy eating countless power points and science related reading materials (like literally), next, I'm also an active member in my organization in school, and lastly, my dearest social life. It turned out that my social life became my last priority when I reached college. I think this is normal if you are studying in a state university. But of course, everything has its good side. Well, one of the advantages of studying here in UP is that you'll be attached to nature. UP is situated in a place where the urban and rural meets, so it’s like enjoying the perks of both worlds.

As you see above, trees are everywhere. Left to right is all green. I really love staring blankly in this area when I find time since my building is a few meters away from this building. It makes you realize a number of things. I can’t explain what those things are but it is something worthwhile.

Just this week, DULA 2014 started. It's like an intramurals in other schools. I’m not fond of dancing myself so I just cheered for my batch mates who joined different sports-related activities. Things like these make me love my student life. Memories like these are to cherish for a life time. One day, my student life shall end and all of these will just be a memory to linger on. When time shall make me older, these things will be my treasure.

Last Wednesday, I came in late in my 8:00am class. I reached the school 8:29 a.m. and so I doubt if I’ll still come to class. I blame the jeepney driver, and all innocent people which have contributed to my lateness. I didn’t pressure myself so instead, I went to somewhere where I can relax and sit until my next class.

I sat to a cottage and after sometime, I started reading an e-book entitled: Sophie’s World. My eyes are dropping and I lie down and looked blankly to the trees. Until I realized I must share it to the world and captured it. And here it goes; the picture above says it all. The cool and fresh breeze that touches your hair and your sweet face, it’s fascinating. Not every people have an opportunity like this especially when you are living at the center of the city. I am lucky to be experiencing these while at school. Most of my classmates complain about their schools. They hated to be in their school, while I love to be in here.

I wonder what you guys are up to. :) How's school?

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My First Liebster Award

I was emailed by Clari from Clarisays and guess what, I'm receiving my first Libster award! Actually, I've heard this a few times ago but never received an invite. So, I'm thrilled to answer her questions. 

Libter Award is like a chain message. It is passed from one blogger to another. It aims to let others get to know your blog more. I think it is fun so I've accepted the invitation. Thank you so much Clari!

The rules include the following:

• Mention the person who nominated you with a link to their blog
• Answer the 11 questions asked
• Nominate 11 other bloggers with a smaller following but with lots of potential
• Create 11 of your own questions for them to answer
• Notify your nominees

Here are my answers:

1. How would you describe yourself? 

I am a happy-go-lucky person though I used to be a serious one. I love to explore life and make the most of it. I believe that the future holds mysterious gifts that would only be unlocked if you will make some efforts and take risks and opportunities. 

2. What did you want to be when you were younger? 

As a child, I am a dreamer of limitless. I used to dream to be a pilot though I am studying Food Technology as of the moment. 

3. Why did you start blogging? 

I started blogging back in 2006 though I never had a stable blog. I used to blog at Friendster.com until such time I started to blog in Blogspot, Tumblr and Wordpress. I tried lots of sites that offer blogging services. That was 2009 when I started to have a half stable blog. In the year 2011, I started to blog at www.ohlysafae.blogspot.com which is now www.hellolysa.blogspot.com. I changed my blog URL for the fact that it is hard for others to remember. I think hellolysa is catchier than the old URL. 

4. What do you do to get inspired to write? 

I do not force myself to write, I just write if I am inspired. Most of the times, I listen to old songs to be more inspired in writing. 

5. What is your favorite topic to write about? 

My favorite topics would include my past adventures or some new events. I also blog things that has something to do with the invites from Davao Bloggers and I also do some promotions. 

6. If you could go back in time to change one thing what would it be? 

If I could go back to the past, I would not change a single thing. I believe that the things that happened to me in the past have brought me to where I am now. The fact that I love where I am now and where I am going has made me love my past. 

7. What was the last film you saw? 

The last film that I watched was entitled Hello Ghost and directed by Kim Young-Tak. I watched it along with the Davao Bloggers during the Four Square night. It is an inspirational movie and centered to the life of a man named Sang-man. He grew alone and he did not know where his family was. With that reason, he often has suicidal thoughts but every time he tries to commit suicide, he is always saved. After some time, he began seeing ghosts. He began seeing an old ghost, crying ghost, smoking ghost and an elementary school student ghost. As the story progresses, he will meet a young lady and he will know how the four ghosts are related in his life. 

This story has its comedy and dramatic side. I love how the two genres were used in this movie. 

8. What are you afraid of? 

I am afraid of living a boring life. 

9. What series or movie can you watch over and over again? 

The series that I will watch forever is the Meteor Garden. It is a vintage movie but the characters never fail to bring me to their world. 

10. If you were to write a book, what would it be? 

Ever since I was a child, I dreamt of writing a book of my own. I dreamt of writing a philosophical novel and an inspirational book. 

11. If you were a book character who would you be? 

If I would be a book character, I will be Harry Potter. I love adventures and discovering new things. It is my hobby. 

My questions are: 

1. Describe your blog in five words.

2. How would you describe yourself?

3. Since when did you started blogging and why?

4. What do you love to write about?

5. What is the story behind your URL?

6. What are your future plans with your blogging career?

7. What are your hobbies?

8. What kind of music do you listen to?

9. What kind of books do you read?

10. What kind of movies do you watch?

11. If you could be a celebrity in a day, who would it be and why?

For this post, I am tagging
Jaiza from http://iamthunderchick.blogspot.com/
Abrille of http://fallingravity.blogspot.com/
West of http://westbriones.blogspot.com/
Jean of http://jeanquiambao.net/
Anna of http://so-stellar.org/

Char of http://www.lifesbettertogether.com/
Shania of http://maxxinejordan.tk/
Mika of http://chasingthedreamer.blogspot.com/
Lyka of http://mslykachiang.blogspot.com/
Lia of http://damaniqueen.blogspot.com/

Valerie of http://fashionciao.com/

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