Small Things Forgotten

Come On, Eileen

2009-12-05T06:06:00.003+01:00

I had fun watching this video for some special reason... *wink wink*. I said to myself whenever I'm feeling down, I will play this song in my head with a little animation like my special someone singing/teasing this to me... and then everything will be OK.

You know what i mean by watching this video:

The Invitation by Oriah Mountain Dreamer

2009-12-03T16:54:00.004+01:00

Its been awhile again, I guess that's just how I work - on and off, in my own phase just the way I like it. I still have alot of ideas that I am not able to 'make happen'. I wish I can make it into something visible, well I know there will come a time that this 'energy' will unleash. (I hope I'm not making excuses again). Anyway I want to share something again, I found a book that caught my attention and its titled 'The Invitation' by Oriah Mountain Dreamer. Without further ado, here it is:

The Invitation By Oriah Mountain Dreamer

It doesn't interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for, and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing.

It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the adventure of being alive.

It doesn't interest me what planets are squaring your moon. I want to know if you have touched the center of your own sorrow, if you have been opened by life's betrayals or have become shriveled and closed from fear of further pain!I want to know if you can sit with pain, mine or your own, without moving to hide it or fade it, or fix it.

I want to know if you can be with joy, mine or your own, if you can dance with wildness and let the ecstasy fill you to the tips of your fingers and toes without cautioning us to be careful, to be realistic, to remember the limitations of being human.

It doesn't interest me if the story you are telling me is true. I want to know if you can disappoint another to be true to yourself; if you can bear the accusation of betrayal and not betray your own soul; if you can be faithlessand therefore trustworthy.

I want to know if you can see beauty even when it's not pretty, every day,and if you can source your own life from its presence. I want to know if you can live with failure, yours and mine, and still stand on the edge of the lake and shout to the silver of the full moon, “Yes!”

It doesn't interest me to know where you live or how much money you have. I want to know if you can get up, after the night of grief and despair, weary and bruised to the bone, and do what needs to be done to feed the children.

It doesn't interest me who you know or how you came to be here. I want to know if you will stand in the center of the fire with me and not shrink back.

It doesn't interest me where or what or with whom you have studied. I want to know what sustains you, from the inside, when all else falls away.

I want to know if you can be alone with yourself and if you truly like the company you keep in the empty moments.

Letter to My Daughter on Being Yourself

2009-10-21T16:12:00.006+02:00

I came across something beautiful when I was looking on my files and so I put it here to keep in my memory and share it to everyone who will be inspired at it as well...

LETTER TO MY DAUGHTER: ON BEING YOURSELF

Dear Sally,

You must learn that you cannot be loved by all people.

You can be the finest apple in the world – ripe, juicy, sweet, and succulent – and offer yourself to all,but there will be people who do not like apples.

If you are the world’s finest apple, and someone you love does not like apples, you still have the choice of becoming a banana, but be warned: if you choose to become a banana, you will be a second rate banana.

You must also realize that if you choose to be a second rate banana, there will be people who do not like bananas, so you can spend your life trying to be the best banana – which is impossible if you are an apple – or you can seek again to be the finest apple.

Hugs, Daddy.

Author unknown, adapted from Adrienne Lee’s psychotherapy seminar.

Audrey Hepburn

2009-10-19T07:24:00.008+02:00

There's something about... Audrey Hepburn. And I can't really pinpoint what, I just simply like her. I dont know if you ever been in this situation, like when you see someone even for the first time you just like them instantly. That's what I feel seeing Ms. Hepburn. Maybe she radiates positive aura with her that people are attracted to her. Or maybe its just that face. Definitely she has a classic look that I'm sure alot of Hollywood celebrities doesn't have.

What a beauty!

Gold In Them Hills by Ron Sexmith feat. Chris Martin

2009-09-06T08:58:00.005+02:00

I can't help gushing about this next song, its mostly the lyrics that got me into it. The melody just adds more to the beauty of the song. I heard it awhile back, but every time I hear it a rush of positive energy just gets through me. I don't get that too often. Although it may have a slow/ sad tone to it, its really a song that inspires hope and high spirits.

So here it is:

Gold In Them Hills:

I know it doesn't seem that way
But maybe it's the perfect day
Even though the bills are piling
Maybe Lady Luck ain't smiling

But if we'd only open our eyes
We'd see the blessings in disguise
That all the rain clouds are fountains
Though our troubles seem like mountains

There's gold in them hills
There's gold in them hills
So don't lose heart
Give the day a chance to start

Every now and then life says
Where do you think you're going so fast
We're apt to think it cruel but sometimes
It's a case of cruel to be kind

And if we'd get up off our knees
Well then we'd see the forest for the trees
And we'd see the new sun rising
Over the hills and horizon

There's gold in them hills
There's gold in them hills
So don't lose faith
Give the world a chance to say...

A word or two, my friend
There's no telling how the day might end
And we'll never know until we see
That there's gold in them hills

There's gold in them hills
So don't lose heart
Give the day a chance to start

There's gold in them hills...
There's gold in them hills...

Life is not made of great things...

2009-09-01T18:37:00.002+02:00

"Remember, life is not made of great things, it is made of very small things. In the early morning, sipping a cup of tea, do it totally, as if this is the last cup of tea you will ever sip again. Take each moment and squeeze the whole juice out of it."

- Osho

The Flying House and Super Book

2009-08-22T04:34:00.004+02:00

When I was a kid I love watching cartoons, well I guess just like any other kids, and I thought I will never outgrew it. Back then there wasn't much cartoons on television, unlike now you have a lot of options from the Disney Channel, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, local tv networks among others. But how I long for the days where everything in life were much simpler and cartoons have more sense and values.

The cartoons that I am referring to are "The Flying House" and "Super Book", cartoons of the mid 80's. Those who are familiar with these, must have grown up in the same era as I was, gotcha! I may not realize it back then, but these two are my major source of Biblical stories. Hmm it's kinda sad that I got my information from here, but that's why these cartoons came to be in the first place for this reason and to teach children good morals and values. That's fair enough. I love the interesting characters, the stories, and I love the opening songs especially that of The Flying House - "We were having fun, playing hide and seek, then a summer storm appears..."

You can try to "at least" sing-a-long with me as we try to relive these cartoons...

The Flying House:

Super Book:

It's been awhile...

2009-08-21T16:46:00.004+02:00

Its been awhile since I posted something in here. Guess I was busy lately doing important stuff, one of them is learning a new language. Its been challenging but fun at the same time, I always wanted to learn another language aside from English, so yeah I am fulfilling one of my things-to-do-before-i-die list. And when you are older and learning a new language its difficult compared to when you start at a very young. For me, its like I'm back in kindergarten and learning the basic.

Also I feel like I seem to ran out of things to say in this blog lately. But i know that's not really the case, because deep inside I have a lot of things to say, the problem is I don't know where to begin! As i write this, I just remembered something my husband said to me quite a few times before, he said that I never ran out of things to say. But he loves it, anyway if he complains he can't escape it, hehehhe.

I am looking forward for things to post because in that way it helps me to know myself too.

Sypmtoms of Being In Love - Twisted Edition

2009-08-08T09:56:00.003+02:00

10 Signs of Being In Love That Might Actually Be Symptoms of Crippling or Fatal Disease:

1. Skippy heartbeat when you think of him/her.

You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Tachycardia which may lead to ventricular fibrillation and myocardial infarction (heart attack)

2. Restless trembling of hands, feet and other body parts.

You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Parkinson's Disease

3. Constant smiling.

You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Bell's Palsy

4. Absent mindedness, forgetfulness, inability to focus on tasks at work or home.

You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: early onset Alzheimer's Disease

5. Frequent or constant sexual arousal.

You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Nymphomania

6. Weakening of knees and bursts of energy when he/she calls or comes over.

You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Multiple Sclerosis

7. Inability to stop thinking about him/her.

You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: OCD

8. Bruising on neck, breasts and other tender areas.

You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Leukemia

9. Insomnia.

You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

10. Feeling that you can smell/hear/feel him or her when not in his/her presence.

You think it's: Love
Medical possibility: Schizophrenia

source: http://listmania42.blogspot.com/

No Negative Thoughts Allowed

2009-08-01T08:10:00.002+02:00

Not now, not ever...

With God On Our Side by Bob Dylan

2009-07-26T17:43:00.005+02:00

Last month, I posted a song called “Laughing With” by Regina Spektor. The lyrics caught my attention, and it actually reminded me of another song this time from Bob Dylan called “With God On Our Side”. This song was written around the 1960s so its kinda very old now but still timeless, and that’s the beauty of Dylan songs. Songs like “Times They are A-Changin”, "Blowin' In The Wind" "Mr. Tambourine Man" among many others are very relevant. Bob is no doubt a legend in the music industry and has influenced alot of musicians. He was also on the list of Time Magazine's Most Influential Person of the Century.

I first heard the name Bob Dylan from a Counting Crow’s song “Mr. Jones”, and this was way back in highschool, more than ten years ago. I got to know Dylan from my brothers, no surprise there. But I can’t really call myself a hardcore Dylan fan, I only know little of his music but I do know he is influential to other musicians and considered a (living) legend in the music industry. And his music is deep for my taste - political, philosophical, social, and its like reading a poetry - deep! If you read some poetry, then you know what I mean.

So, this song had got me thinking before (and now)... maybe Regina had this song in mind too. She specifically named Dylan as one of her primary influences, so who knows? But both are beautiful and I like songs that are not just about love but songs that make you think and be aware...

Anyway, here is the song I am referring:

"With God On Our Side"

Oh my name it is nothin'
My age it means less
The country I come from
Is called the Midwest
I's taught and brought up there
The laws to abide
And that land that I live in
Has God on its side

Oh the history books tell it
They tell it so well
The cavalries charged
The Indians fell
The cavalries charged
The Indians died
Oh the country was young
With God on its side

Oh the Spanish-American
War had its day
And the Civil War too
Was soon laid away
And the names of the heroes
I's made to memorize
With guns in their hands
And God on their side

Oh the First World War, boys
It closed out its fate
The reason for fighting
I never got straight
But I learned to accept it
Accept it with pride
For you don't count the dead
When God's on your side

When the Second World War
Came to an end
We forgave the Germans
And we were friends
Though they murdered six million
In the ovens they fried
The Germans now too
Have God on their side

I've learned to hate Russians
All through my whole life
If another war starts
It's them we must fight
To hate them and fear them
To run and to hide
And accept it all bravely
With God on my side

But now we got weapons
Of the chemical dust
If fire them we're forced to
Then fire them we must
One push of the button
And a shot the world wide
And you never ask questions
When God's on your side

In a many dark hour
I've been thinkin' about this
That Jesus Christ
Was betrayed by a kiss
But I can't think for you
You'll have to decide
Whether Judas Iscariot
Had God on his side

So now as I'm leavin'
I'm weary as Hell
The confusion I'm feelin'
Ain't no tongue can tell
The words fill my head
And fall to the floor
If God's on our side
He'll stop the next war

Quote of the Day

2009-07-21T14:19:00.001+02:00

The Corrs

2009-07-18T07:10:00.011+02:00

Before Regina Spektor, before Coldplay (and a few other bands in between), I was first and foremost a Corrs fan. The Corrs is an Irish band consists of four exceptional siblings – Jim, Sharon, Caroline, and Andrea Corr. Aside from being Irish who are known for their music, they come from a family of musicians as their parents were both in their own band back then called the Sound Affair (sounds cool for a band's name). So it’s no surprise that they got the genes from their folks.

I first heard of them when I was a freshman in college, that would be 11 years ago, and I’m still a fan to this day. I used to read a lot about them, their biographies and such! I was ashamed by how much I read about them. You know you are a big fan when your friends hear a Corrs' song and they think of you immediately. Then my brother got me a copy of a magazine (above photo) with them as the cover which he bought overseas, that meant a lot to me. I also got a postcard from a friend who had been on one their concert, that was so sincere of her. Ahh, how I wish it will be my turn to see them in concert someday.

I can’t also seem to decide who my favorite Corr sister is, at one point I wanted to be Sharon, then Andrea, and then Caroline. All of them are pretty and talented, but when I base it on the instrument I wanted to play the drums, it is by far the coolest thing to play next to the violin, the tin whistle,... There were times that I pretended I was on stage singing too. On the other hand I put on the cd on my walkman, closed my eyes and allowed myself to go places...

I think musicians should be a goodwill ambassadors of their countries too, the Corrs got me interested in Ireland. They represent their already beautiful country when they play Celtic music and just even using some of their traditional musical instrument to their own music.

These days The Corrs is on hiatus, but I read they will have a comeback soon so I'm excited for the new stuff. As for now, here are two of their songs in their first studio album “Forgiven not Forgotten”…I miss the Corrs and watching these videos below just brings back memories. Ah, how music has been part of my life, it has been a refuge…

Love To Love You:

Runaway:

Quote of the Day

2009-07-13T05:33:00.003+02:00

Desiderata

2009-07-10T06:06:00.007+02:00

I read this poem years ago, and its one of those things that gives a profound effect on you . Although there were times that I totally forgot about this poem but now that I rediscovered it again, it becomes more raw, in the nick of time, and speak more truth to it than ever before. I find reading this passage a spiritual thing for me to do, so it's a good way to read on this from time to time... In your own private space, in your journal, or in these case reading it online.

DESIDERATA

Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons,
they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment
it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.

Too Sweet For Words

2009-07-06T16:45:00.005+02:00

Together now - "Ohhhhhh" this is just so sweet, my heart is melting...

"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart. "

- Helen Keller

Truthfully by Lisa Loeb

2009-07-02T06:23:00.001+02:00

This isn't what I like to call flattery,
but I know that I believe that I've found what's true,
that I've found what's you.

Truthfully I
I'm finding finally.
Truthfully you
you helped me find at last.
Truthfully we
are finding out what's true.
And Truthfully I am finding out what's you.

Surprise, cause I was flying the plane.
Surprise, cause now I'm smiling again.
Surprise, cause you showed up with your parachute.
Surprise, I'm kind of happy you showed up.

Truthfully I
I'm finding finally.
Truthfully you
you helped me find at last.
Truthfully we
are finding out what's true.
And Truthfully I am finding out what's you.

Truthfully, I really can't explain, I'm floating, I'm smiling again.
Truthfully, I can't ignore you, cause I've been waiting for you.
Truthfully, I'm not desperate, I haven't changed my mind since we first met,
but the last thing that I want to do is to tell you that I'm right for you.

Truthfully I
I'm finding finally.
Truthfully you
you helped me find at last.
Truthfully we
are finding out what's true.
And Truthfully I am finding out what's you.

I'm finding finally.
Truthfully, I'm finding out what's you.
I'm smiling again.
Truthfully

The Buddha-ful

2009-07-02T04:59:00.001+02:00

Sweet Valley Twins

2009-06-30T14:57:00.006+02:00

Remember them???

My introduction to great literary works started with the book series called “Sweet Valley Twins” and that would be Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield. Elizabeth is the older twin, considered the good, smart and serious type kind of girl, and helps Jessica when she gets into trouble. While Jessica was the opposite - she loves boys, gossip, fashion and is a member an exclusive club called The Unicorn Club which consists of the prettiest and most popular girls in school. (Ain't we all have these kind of girls in our school huh?). I guess I am more of the Elizabeth type, but we all love Jessica, she's the one who spice the story and we all need that.

And then there are other memorable characters like their big brother Steven, Elizabeth’s bestfriend Amy and Jessica’s best friend and enemy Lila Fowler. Now that I thought of it, I think Jessica and Lila were the “original frenemy", well for me anyway. And who will forget (I know I won’t) Elizabeth’s sort of boyfriend Todd Wilkins. I believe that these two were the first love story that i ever followed. I remember my first copy of Sweet Valley Twins was titled “Elizabeth’s First Kiss” and to my surprise it was my brother who gave it to me. How cheesy, but it does make me smile thinking of it now.

I don’t own a lot of books so I borrow at the school library and I have a friend who owns a whole set of Sweet Valley Twins, High, and University. Going to her house was like going to a library, I suppose I read more of her books than she did. If she ever reads this, I know she knows that I am referring to her and hopefully she will be smiling.

Now I'm reading different genre of books and the stories are more complicated than those that I read in my elementary years. I suppose as you grow older and change, your taste in books also changes. But like any other first times in our lives, I never will forget my first love of books came from these series.

Note:

Oh and this is my first ever, most personal blog that i wrote to date, so this is kind of embarrassing for me. But following my intention for creating this blog is to remember the small things forgotten in my life and the things that when I look back, I smile and say "I remember that!".

Being Happy...

2009-06-28T08:33:00.000+02:00

Tree of Life

2009-06-27T18:21:00.003+02:00

This one is made by someone very special... Ik hou van je!

Three Little Pigs With a Twist

2009-06-26T06:24:00.004+02:00

Found this funny story, thought i put it here:

The mind of a 6-year old is wonderful. First grade... true story:

One day the first grade teacher was reading the story of The Three Little Pigs to her class. She came to the part of the story where the first pig was trying to accumulate the building materials for his first home.

She read, "...And so the pig went up to the man with the wheelbarrow full of straw and sand and said, "Pardon me sir, but may I have some of that straw to build my house?"

The teacher paused and asked the class, "And what do you think that man said?"

One little boy raised his hand and said, "I think he said... "Holy sh**! A talking pig!""

The teacher was unable to teach for the next 10 minutes.

As I Lay Me Down To Sleep - Sophie Hawkins

2009-06-26T06:02:00.001+02:00

Salay Sunset

2009-06-25T07:15:00.003+02:00

Beautiful sunset, taken at my mother's hometown of Salay

Quote of the Day

2009-06-24T07:46:00.001+02:00

Laughing With by Regina Spektor

2009-06-23T07:16:00.007+02:00

I'm a big Regina Spektor fan and today is the day that she will release her new album "Far" and for that reason alone I will post something from her. Her new track is called "Laughing With". Again, another great song from a talented artist. Here is the official video, and the lyrics is simply amazing as well. Watch and Enjoy!

No one laughs at God in a hospital
No one laughs at God in a war
No one’s laughing at God
When they’re starving or freezing or so very poor

No one laughs at God
When the doctor calls after some routine tests
No one’s laughing at God
When it’s gotten real late
And their kid’s not back from the party yet

No one laughs at God
When their airplane start to uncontrollably shake
No one’s laughing at God
When they see the one they love, hand in hand with someone else
And they hope that they’re mistaken

No one laughs at God
When the cops knock on their door
And they say we got some bad news, sir
No one’s laughing at God
When there’s a famine or fire or flood

*Chorus*
But God can be funny
At a cocktail party when listening to a good God-themed joke, or
Or when the crazies say He hates us
And they get so red in the head you think they’re ‘bout to choke
God can be funny,
When told he’ll give you money if you just pray the right way
And when presented like a genie who does magic like Houdini
Or grants wishes like Jiminy Cricket and Santa Claus
God can be so hilarious
Ha ha
Ha ha

No one laughs at God in a hospital
No one laughs at God in a war
No one’s laughing at God
When they’ve lost all they’ve got
And they don’t know what for

No one laughs at God on the day they realize
That the last sight they’ll ever see is a pair of hateful eyes
No one’s laughing at God when they’re saying their goodbyes
But God can be funny
At a cocktail party when listening to a good God-themed joke, or
Or when the crazies say He hates us
And they get so red in the head you think they’re ‘bout to choke
God can be funny,
When told he’ll give you money if you just pray the right way
And when presented like a genie who does magic like Houdini
Or grants wishes like Jiminy Cricket and Santa Claus
God can be so hilarious

No one laughs at God in a hospital
No one laughs at God in a war
No one laughs at God in a hospital
No one laughs at God in a war
No one laughing at God in hospital
No one’s laughing at God in a war
No one’s laughing at God when they’re starving or freezing or so very
poor

No one’s laughing at God
No one’s laughing at God
No one’s laughing at God
We’re all laughing with God

Beauty Tips for a Better You

2009-06-23T06:04:00.001+02:00

For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.

For beautiful eyes, look for the good in other people.

To lose weight, let go of stress, hatred, racism, anger, contentment and the need to control others.

To improve your ears, listen. Rather than focus on the thorns of life, smell the roses and count your blessings, giving thanks for each one of them.

For poise, walk with knowledge and self-esteem.

To strengthen your arms, hug at least 3 people a day. Touch someone with your love.

To strengthen your heart, forgive yourself and others. Don't worry and hurry so much. Rather than walk this earth lightly, walk firmly with determination and leave your mark.

Doing these things on a daily basis will certainly make you a more beautiful person.

Author Unknown

Cannonball by Damien Rice

2009-06-21T18:16:00.002+02:00

I just simply love this song...

Cannonball - Damien Rice

There’s still a little bit of your taste in my mouth
There’s still a little bit of you laced with my doubt
It’s still a little hard to say what's going on

There’s still a little bit of your ghost your witness
There’s still a little bit of your face i haven't kissed
You step a little closer each day
That I can't say what's going on

Stones taught me to fly
Love, it taught me to lie
Life, it taught me to die
So it's not hard to fall
When you float like a cannonball

There’s still a little bit of your song in my ear
There’s still a little bit of your words i long to hear
You step a little closer to me
So close that I can't see what's going on

Stones taught me to fly
Love taught me to lie
Life taught me to die
'Cos its not hard to fall,
And I don't want to scare her
Its not hard to fall
And i don't want to lose
Its not hard to grow
When you know that you just don't know

Stones taught me to fly
Love taught me to lie
Life taught me to die
So its not hard to fall
When you float like a cannon.

Quote of the Day

2009-06-21T17:01:00.000+02:00

The Painted Veil

2009-06-19T19:20:00.008+02:00

One of my favorite movie is "The Painted Veil" starring Naomi Watts and Edward Norton. It is based on a novel of the same title by the author W. Somerset Maugham. It is a period drama set in the 1920s China and England. The movie is about a marriage in distress between Walter and Kitty.

The beautiful music played in the movie is a French children song called "A La Claire Fontaine" translated in English as "At the Clear Fountain". Makes me want to learn it and sing it to my kids in the future, but perhaps i will sing it into English and/or Dutch, hehehe, or in Visayan too, why not. If you like it and want to practice your French then you can sing-a-long, this is a challenge though, more like a tongue twister.

"A La Claire Fontaine"

À la claire fontaine, (At the clear fountain)
M'en allant promener (While I was strolling by)
J'ai trouvé l'eau si belle (I found the water so nice)
Que je m'y suis baigné (That I went in to bathe)

Refrain :
Il y a longtemps que je t'aime (So long I've been loving you)
Jamais je ne t'oublierai (I will never forget you)

Sous les feuilles d'un chêne, (Under an oak tree,)
Je me suis fait sécher (I dried myself)
Sur la plus haute branche, (On the highest branch,)
Un rossignol chantait (A nightingale was singing)

Refrain

Chante rossignol, chante, (Sing, nightingale, sing,)
Toi qui as le cœur gai (Your heart is so happy)
Tu as le cœur à rire, (Your heart feels like laughing,)
Moi je l'ai à pleurer (Mine feels like weeping.)

Refrain

J'ai perdu mon amie, (I lost my beloved,)
Sans l'avoir mérité (Without deserving it,)
Pour un bouquet de roses, (For a bunch of roses,)
Que je lui refusai (That I denied her.)

Refrain

Je voudrais que la rose, (I wanted the rose)
Fût encore au rosier (To be still on the bush,)
Et que ma douce amie (And my sweet beloved)
Fût encore à m'aimer (To be still loving me)

Refrain

The Paradox of Our Age

2009-06-18T18:19:00.006+02:00

The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider freeways, but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less; we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.

We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom. We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.

We've learned how to make a living, but not a life. We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things.

We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.

These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes but more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete.

Remember; spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever. Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side. Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent.

Remember, to say, "I love you" to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you. Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again. Give time to love, give time to speak, and give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

Written by a former pastor Dr. Bob Moorehead

Dreaming of ...

2009-06-18T16:34:00.006+02:00

Simply amazing... I'm dreaming of being in this place now, the four "S" - the sun, the sea, the sand and being with your someone special. But for now this picture will do, even just looking at it gives good vibrations.

Quote of the Day

2009-06-17T16:34:00.001+02:00

Better Than Ezra - A Lifetime

2009-06-17T09:31:00.006+02:00

My interest in music was mostly influenced by my two older brothers. Way back then, our house was filled with basically alternative rock music played in high volume. This time around, its only me playing not-so-loud music. One of the bands that I listened when I was in high school was Better Than Ezra with their hits like Good, Desperately Wanting, and Rosealia. I can still recall singing along with these tunes (and my brother's theme song is definitely Desperately Wanting.) Better Than Ezra has been around for 2 decades already, I believe they are one of the most underrated bands but I guess its better that way. BTE has a strong fan base though, so thats good.

Allie woke up 8AM Graduation day.
Got into a car, and crashed along the way.
When we arrived late to the wake,
Stole the urn while they looked away,
And drove to the beach 'cause I knew you'd want it that way.

And you were standing on the hood of the car
Singing out loud when the sun came up.

And I know I wasn't right, but it felt so good.
And your mother didn't mind, like I thought she would.
And that REM song was playing in my mind.
And three and a half minutes felt like a lifetime. It felt like a lifetime

And you move like water I could drown in you.
And I fell so deep once, till you pulled me through
You would tell me "No one is allowed to be so proud
They never reach out when they're giving up."

And I know I wasn't right, but it felt so good.
And your mother didn't mind, like I thought she would.
And that REM song was playing in my mind.
And three and a half minutes felt like a lifetime. It felt like a lifetime

Are you sitting in the lights? Or combing your hair again?
And talking in rhymes? Are you sitting in the lights?

When I got home, heard the phone, your parents had arrived.
And your dad set his jaw, your mom just smiled and sighed.
But they left soon and I went to my room.
Played that disc that you'd given me, and I shut my eyes
Swear I could hear the sea.

When we were standing
On the hood of your car
Singing out loud when the sun came up.

And I know I wasn't right, but it felt so good.
And your mother didn't mind, like I thought she would.
And that REM song was playing in my mind.
And three and a half minutes felt like a lifetime.

It felt like a lifetime

Why So Serious???

2009-06-16T10:56:00.005+02:00

"I swear its not me!!!" "

"Don't worry, I forgive you, how can I not huh?"

Ah, this one just warms my heart.

P.S. Unfortunately this is not my dog.

What Pet Are You Like

2009-06-16T08:34:00.007+02:00

You Are Like a Horse

You are strong, steady, and devoted. You are a good partner.

You are gentle and sensitive. You can be easily frightened.

You are usually quite stable, but you do have a wild streak that comes out from time to time.

You are cooperative and not a solitary creature. You like to be around others.

Yipee!!! I'm a horsie, I really admire horses since way before I am fascinated with elephants. But both animals (among others) are very strong and beautiful creatures.

Be Strong

2009-06-16T08:22:00.003+02:00

So true...

Disney's Desperate Housewives

2009-06-15T18:20:00.003+02:00

And they lived happily ever after... The End.

Cute Little French Girl Telling a Story

2009-06-14T15:40:00.004+02:00

Ahhhh I can't help it, this is just so cute!!! I like it when i hear people talking in French even though I don't understand it and even though they are shouting at each other it will still amuses me. This cute French girl in the video below will definitely capture your heart, she is a natural storyteller. Want proof, then watch this:

Once upon a time... from Capucha on Vimeo.

The girl's name is Capucine, a 4 year old from France. Her mom decided to use Capucine's popularity put into good use. A project called "Capucine's Library" was set up to raise money for Edurelief. Edurelief is a development organization based in Mongolia, who helps provide school books to Mongolian kids. If you want to get involved in their goal, here is the link.

Today's Weather

2009-06-14T12:43:00.003+02:00

It's A Sign!

2009-06-13T07:47:00.005+02:00

I saw this sign outside the chapel of the Monastery of the Transfiguration in Malaybalay, Bukidnon and took a photo of it, as though at that time God showed me a "sign". Time to time I reflect on this quote.

Ain't No Reason

2009-06-12T09:16:00.004+02:00

Today is Independence Day, and for some reason this is the song on my mind, and the video suits the song too... moving and thought provoking.

I Am, I Feel

2009-06-11T15:56:00.006+02:00

This song was playing in my head today and I find it nostalgic... not because of any particular event but just songs you hear way back when I was high school. It's a feel good song...

I Am, I Feel - Alishas Attic

an excerpt:

I click my heels together three times
They sparked a little, but nothing happened
And the big bad wolf's still in my bed
I am, I feel
(I sometimes think that you forget) that
I am, I feel
I got to get away from here
I am, I feel
This girl's a person y'know
I am, I feel

Quote of the Day

2009-06-11T09:57:00.004+02:00

I found this quote on my notebook dated 2002, that's along time ago. I'm trying to make my own creation / design as i look for more quotes from my old notebook...

As I Lay Me Down To Sleep...

2009-06-10T18:51:00.002+02:00

All I Really Need To Know I Learned In Kindegarten

2009-06-10T17:35:00.011+02:00

Here is a lovely excerpt from one of my cherished book "All I Really Need To Know I Learned In Kindergarten" by Robert Fulghum.

ALL I REALLY NEED TO KNOW about how to live and what to do and how to be I learned in kindergarten. Wisdom was not at the top of the graduate-school mountain, but there in the sandpile at Sunday School. These are the things I learned:

Share everything.

Play fair.

Don't hit people.

Put things back where you found them.

Clean up your own mess.

Don't take things that aren't yours.

Say you're sorry when you hurt somebody.

Wash your hands before you eat.

Flush.

Warm cookies and cold milk are good for you.

Live a balanced life - learn some and think some and draw and paint and sing and dance and play and work every day some.

Take a nap every afternoon.

When you go out into the world, watch out for traffic, hold hands, and stick together.

Be aware of wonder. Remember the little seed in the Styrofoam cup: The roots go down and the plant goes up and nobody really knows how or why, but we are all like that.

Goldfish and hamsters and white mice and even the little seed in the Styrofoam cup - they all die. So do we.

And then remember the Dick-and-Jane books and the first word you learned - the biggest word of all - LOOK.

Everything you need to know is in there somewhere. The Golden Rule and love and basic sanitation. Ecology and politics and equality and sane living.

Take any of those items and extrapolate it into sophisticated adult terms and apply it to your family life or your work or your government or your world and it holds true and clear and firm. Think what a better world it would be if all - the whole world - had cookies and milk about three o'clock every afternoon and then lay down with our blankies for a nap. Or if all governments had a basic policy to always put thing back where they found them and to clean up their own mess.

And it is still true, no matter how old you are - when you go out into the world, it is best to hold hands and stick together.

A Reminder:

2009-06-09T18:50:00.004+02:00

My "PersonalDNA"

2009-06-09T17:14:00.009+02:00

I am a fan of online personality tests and I take part on some of them that are fun, cool and i like it especially when i can say that a certain test blew me away. Recently i stumbled on such a site, where one can assess one's self just for the heck of it. The result will surprise you, but a word of advice: be patient and be true to yourself when taking this test. Try it here.

Here is my PersonalDNA:

and my complete report is here.

Come on, take the test... Just for fun, i sure did.

Quote of the Day

2009-06-09T09:43:00.001+02:00

"Find a guy who calls you beautiful instead of hot, who calls you back when you hang up on him, who will lie under the stars and listen to your heartbeat, or will stay awake just to watch you sleep... wait for the boy who kisses your forehead, who wants to show you off to the world when you are in sweats, who holds your hand in front of his friends, who thinks you' re just as pretty without makeup on. One who is constantly reminding you of how much he cares and how lucky he is to have YOU... The one who turns to his friends and says, "that's her"....

-Unknown (Website)

Happy Monday: Ostrich vs. Elephant

2009-06-08T06:17:00.003+02:00

This one made me laugh, but poor ostrich... but im sure that they were just being kids, oh-so-playful.

A Reminder:

2009-06-07T18:02:00.004+02:00

Yes, everything's gonna be ok...

Regina Spektor

2009-06-06T07:20:00.005+02:00

I heart Regina Spektor, and i find it kinda sad that i don't know anyone who share the same fondness i have for Ms. Spektor. But i found a way of spreading the love...

Regina was born in Russia but when she was 9 years old moved to New York. She is an anti-folk/pop singer/songwriter/pianist and she is known for her eclectic use of words and unorthodox style of singing.

She is brilliant, super talented, smart, amazing, adorable, funny, unique and beautiful. Her most familiar work would be "Fidelity" and "Samson", but that's not the only reason why i listen to her, cause there are so much more (hint: Better, Hotel Song, On the Radio... ) I've been listening to her music for more than 2 years now, and I never get tired. And she has a new album coming up too! Cant wait.

Here's an unofficial video for "Raindrops", the video itself is adorable and its a shout out to my yojimbo!

and here's another brilliant live performance of "Fidelity: Enjoy!

The key to life . . .

2009-06-05T16:20:00.008+02:00

When I was 5 years old, my mom always
told me that happiness is the key to life.

When I went to school, they asked me
what I wanted when i grew up.

I wrote down "happy".

They told me I didn't understand the
assignment and I told them they didn't
understand "life".

Storyteller's Creed

2009-06-05T07:17:00.001+02:00

I believe ...

That imagination is stronger than knowledge.

That myth is more potent than history.

That dreams are more powerful than facts.

That hope always triumphs over experience.

That laughter is the only cure for grief.

And I believe that love is stronger than death.