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The Truth - Speak it, Own it, Live it.

Indubitably, diplomacy and civility are elements in creating and maintaining harmonious relationships. However, most people become so obsessed with congeniality, that they tend to bend over backwards too often, usually in compromise of their own integrity, sense of self, and peace. Needless to say, choosing silence is the easiest path in avoiding tension or conflict. That is why, when confronted…

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I never imagined Ilocos to be our first family road trip. Firstly because it was a long and destination-full travel and secondly, because my son was just 4 months old at that time and it seemed impossible to do the trip with all the infant “paraphernalia” we have. But still being the go-getter me, I made sure our itinerary was fool-proof and fortunately, our 3-day trip went everything to plan. So here is our Ilocos trip in chronological order.

  Blue Lagoon

We spent most of our 1st day on the road as we opted to go to the furthest north as our first stop – the famous Blue Lagoon in Pagudpud. We stayed in Hannah’s Beach Resort for breakfast and took a quick walk on the shore. It was my son’s first time on the beach so it was such a delightful treat seeing his tiny feet on the sand.

Along the way were some steep hills which were also quite a scenery. We were tempted to go down the rocks but had to leave soon to catch up with the rest of our itinerary for the day.

Bangui Windmills

The famous Wind Farm of Bangui, Ilocos Norte is indeed a top highlight when travelling to Ilocos. This nine-kilometre stretch of wind turbines supplies 40% of Ilocos Norte’s electricity and is a very good model for implementing sustainable energy country-wide. The strong breeze coupled with the crashing waves of the West Philippine sea had both our hair and spirits fly.

  Kapurpurawan Rock Formation

This famous destination along the coasts of Burgos is yet another nature’s masterpiece formed by the natural forces of the ocean. Kapurpurawan came from the Ilocano word “puraw” which means white.

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

One of the many things Ilocos is popular for is being a haven of Philippine cultural heritage. Cape Borjeador was our first blast from the past during our tour. Built in the 1890’s, this historical landmark is still functional and guides ships away from the rocky coasts of the north.

  Sinking Bell Tower

Laoag’s Cathedral is famous for its bell tower that sinks at a rate of one inch per year due to its sturdy structure built on a sandy foundation.

Malacañang of the North

It is pretty much well known that the infamous dictator and former President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos, was born and bred in Ilocos Norte. So it was not a surprise that many of the Marcoses’ memorabilia are found in the province. One of which is the former leader’s family residence during his seat as Chief Executive. Setting aside my personal political thoughts on the Marcoses, the visit on this Presidential Museum was curiosity-satisfying and I cannot help but note of how the locals honor them.

  Paoay Sand Dunes

Well, if we were single and as wild and free as before, we would definitely rent a 4×4 jeepney and ride our lives away the Sand Dunes of Paoay. But since we have a sleeping infant left back at the car, we just chose a simple stroll and pica sesh notwithstanding the windy atmosphere bringing sands on our faces.

  Paoay Church

It is common for a Filipino traveler all over the world to include churches in their itineraries. That’s why we made sure we won’t miss this three-decade old UNESCO World Heritage Site in Paoay.

  Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo

We concentrated our final day around Ilocos Sur’s center, Vigan. We started in Baluarte, a 100-hectare property of famous Ilocano politician Chavit Singson, in our attempt to stimulate our son’s interest with animals in its famed Zoo and Safari Gallery. We also side-tripped to the mansion also situated in the same area.

    Pagburnayan Jar Factory

This is our first time together in a jar factory and we were quite amazed with pottery. Though we did not get a chance to try it out (soiling out our hands are not the best option when you have a infant to carry), we definitely look forward to someday experience this craft.

  The Hidden Garden of Vigan

This not really hidden restaurant of Vigan was surely the city’s gem. Food was good and a sure place to experience the local delicacies of Ilocos such as the Vigan empanada, Poqui-poqui and Warek-warek.

    Calle Crisologo

The most known tourist spot in Vigan is a street that will take you back to the Spanish era. This is now a busy commercial street full of antique and souveneir shops,  but its cobblestones and ancestral houses are well-preserved which is definitely why see-goers won’t dare skip to visit.

      Vigan Cathedral 

  Bantay Church and Bell Tower

Our last stop for the Ilocos Sur trip is 2 of the oldest structures in the province. It is a longstanding watchtower circa 1591 that was converted into a church Bell tower in 1857.

To cap this post, here are some of our family random road trip snaps. Surely, this is indeed a trip to remember that we will be delighted to show our son when he grows up.

    Family Road Trip to Ilocos I never imagined Ilocos to be our first family road trip. Firstly because it was a long and destination-full travel and secondly, because my son was just 4 months old at that time and it seemed impossible to do the trip with all the infant "paraphernalia" we have.

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What's up

What’s up

It feels different to start this post as it has been ages ago since my last blog. A lot has changed and things are a far cry from what it used to be since I was married. The past three years have been crazy and profoundly memorable due to a couple of life-changing milestones that took place in such a seemingly long but ironically short span of time.

What’s different now

Firstly, most of my blog…

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Much has happened the past year and more are still going on until this very moment. I have been on a different kind of adventure that has brought over uncontainable and unimaginable feelings of joy, thrill, confusion and all other things indescribable.

Now, I am about to set foot to another exciting journey (another one I will be eager to share in a few days). But before I get drowned again with so much of everything, I would like (and now ready) to share the day I was very blessed with so much love and grace – the day of my wedding.

Meeting and being with my love – Archie, have been an answer to a prayer. Being with him on the altar and receiving the Lord’s blessing in front of all the people who are dear to us is really much more.

I went into a lot of hesitation at first (wedding jitters as they say) and would honestly say was pretty scared too, but I cannot imagine any woman who could not be happier walking down the aisle and be the most beautiful she can be in front of God and her love.

That is why you can imagine how much effort and planning we have put into to making that day perfect for the both of us. Even if I had a wedding planner, I still cannot help but be as hands on as I can be. I have probably went to countless websites to look for ideas, designs, motifs and colours. My Pinterest account are still full of it if you look at it now.

Now I can tell you this, no wedding will ever not be flawless for any bride. 🙂

Now let the pictures do the talking and hopefully give some ideas to other soon-to-be brides.

Palencia – Morales Nuptials

18th of November Preparation: Naga Manor Hotel Church: Naga Metropolitan Cathedral Reception: Moraville The Garden Photography: Mediarama Creatives Video: VisualLove Wedding Films Coordinator: Key Connections Events Management HMUA: Audrey Ayen Gown: Nora Dominguez Florist: Erwin San Joaquin Duo Singer: Cj and Sheila Photobooth: Fotobomber Photobooth Invitation: Arjey Galicia

  My moments

    My “this is it” moment…

Mr and Mrs Morales

Our massive entourage – 8 pairs of bridesmaids and groomsmen and 4 pairs of secondary sponsors, 2 pairs of best men and maids of honor. Not to mention another 8 pairs of flower girls and bearers, then 5 pairs of Primary Sponsors

      Our laid back pose

  Moving on at the reception…

And introducing our own local tradition for weddings – the Pantomina (Prosperity) da

nce

  And now, nothing can bring us much excitement as we become soon-to-be parents for our lovely baby boy. Can’t contain my happiness. Thank you Lord for everything 🙂

  Sweet November Much has happened the past year and more are still going on until this very moment. I have been on a different kind of adventure that has brought over uncontainable and unimaginable feelings of joy, thrill, confusion and all other things indescribable.

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I bet most Aussies are still having some OZ day hungover today, eh? I am pretty much sure everyone enjoyed a day off from work, either by watching the fireworks display and parade at the city or just having a simple family barbie time at home. Sadly, I wasn’t able to get to experience the festivity myself last time as I had to leave few days just before the OZ day.

Anyway, in this part 2 blog, I am continuing my virtual revisit on the other travel-worthy places in the Western Australia aside from Perth. In summary, this trip consists of our sand-boarding adventure in Lancelin, our hot and melting stroll in the Cervantes desert, a relaxing cruise and Christmas Lights show in Mandurah and our nice beach holiday in Busselton.

The Pinnacles Desert

It was summer when we went here in Cervantes so you can imagine how hot it was. But the place is very scenic that you wouldn’t really mind much the heat and the long drive to get here.

  Lancelin Sand Dunes 

I have never been to a sand dune before and glad this is where I had my first. This place is indeed a sand-boarding heaven. The sand was very white and good thing it wasn’t that hot when we got here so I had much fun frolicking freely around.

Mandurah Dolphin Quay

The cool breeze and the relaxing cruise by the Mandurah bay as we watched the sun set, which little by little more vividly displayed each of the household’s Christmas lights was really more than a satisfying way to end our day. I guess the dolphins were a bit shy that time so no Flipper sightings. It was still worthwhile though and it was a perfect activity for families and lovers <3

  Busselton Jetty

I was two kilometers far out to the sea because of this jetty. As per the sign, this is the longest timber piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. If you opt not to walk this distance, there is a regular train you can ride to get to the other side where you will be able to see the Underwater Observatory. The Busselton beach itself was also very noteworthy and which is just one among the prettiest beaches in Australia. We ended the day by fishing which is my favourite activity while in OZ.

  Hopefully we will be able to visit Perth again this year. I am pretty sure there will be a lot more adventures that awaits me here and I can’t wait for it!

A Perth-errific Australia (2/2) I bet most Aussies are still having some OZ day hungover today, eh? I am pretty much sure everyone enjoyed a day off from work, either by watching the fireworks display and parade at the city or just having a simple family barbie time at home.

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It’s 2017 and I am finally back to blogging after last year ber-months’ hiatus. And since it is Australia Day today, I am picking a throwback post of my “Perth-errific” holidays to the “Land Down Under”.

Perth, being the only city in the western side of the country isn’t usually a popular choice for first time visitors. Most will opt to go east where the other major cities Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane situate. There is no wonder Perth is branded as the “Most Isolated City” in Australia.

But even though I have not been to the other cities to get some comparisons, Perth did not disappoint me. It was a very nice place for a holiday with a very much better summer weather and with a lot of experience to offer.

In this blog, I will briefly show you Perth in pictures. This part 1 post will concentrate on the must-see places nearby the city (sorry, have to break it down into two parts as I have numerous pictures to share), while the second part will be places mostly outside

Perth CBD

A Street Artist on the street

Post Office

The London Court

  AQWA

  Western Australia Art Gallery

  Perth Zoo

What do you call a Rhino in Australia? Answer: Austral-rhino! :D :D :D

Sneaky Chameleon

Perth Zoo

There’s a penguin in Australia!

  WA Museum and Shipwreck Galleries

The Bell Tower

King’s Park

St. Mary’s Cathedral

  Fremantle

Fremantle Prison

Fremantle Prison

Fish and Chips at Kaili’s

Yay! More Street art!

  Sorry, will have to reedit these for more decriptions! But yeah, that’s pretty much it. Still got a lot more missed must-sees (Rottnest Island, Swan Lake, etc.) but have to save that for next time. We will be in the other parts of Western Australia – Busselton, Mandurah, Lancelin and Cervantes for part 2.

Happy Australia Day mate! See ya!

    A Perth-errific Australia Trip (Part 1/2) It's 2017 and I am finally back to blogging after last year ber-months' hiatus. And since it is Australia Day today, I am picking a throwback post of my "Perth-errific" holidays to the "Land Down Under".

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I was never really good with words so I strive to use forms to voice out whatever unspeakable thoughts I have in mind. It has been quite a while since I have made several pieces of these so I am making a gallery of some of my throwback doodles and meager attempts to draw and sketch like a pro, hopefully to spark my hand to have a reunion with my pen and pencil.

    Some of below were created 4 years ago. Seems like a long time ago now.

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Snoopy

Game Over

Anna

I am drawn to draw things I would usually see or use. I am mostly fond of drawing the eyes it is one of my most prominent features. :)

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Peeper’s eye

Davis

Another eye

Three of my favourites. Music. Art. and CAAATS.

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Music is freedom

WIP

Miming

Hmmh, so I may call this set “My bucket list”. The first one is because I wanted to go to all the States in Australia, especially the Great Barrier Reef. Next is I have always wanted to go to Brazil, experience the culture and go to this massive and known music festival called Tomorrowland. Lastly, the butterfly, which I still secretly wanted to have it as a tattoo on my shoulder.

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Down Under

Tomorrowland

Mariposa

Calligraphy, cartoon and portrait.

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J.C.Mayer

Curly Dolly

Smirking Lorde (?)

  :)

        Strokes and Shades I was never really good with words so I strive to use forms to voice out whatever unspeakable thoughts I have in mind.

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Who doesn't need this right now? 👌🌞🌊 #givemethesun #shores #frolicking #beach #vscocam #vsco #vscoph #vscogram #vscogallery #vscophoto #vscophile #vscogood #vscofeature

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It’s raining cats and dogs outside as I speak (or write rather) and this bed-weather is a tempting time to snuggle under the sheets and watch a movie. However, my masochistic side makes me find it a better time to immortalise my summer memories in Baler, Aurora. So here I went, compiling all the pictures we had during our trip there as I wandered my thoughts back and 230 kilometers away from home.

April is a terribly humid month in the Philippines, especially in the crowded Metro Manila, so most of us would go miles away from the city  to find some air and get some tan in the most coveted beaches in the country. We then chose Baler to cool us off last summer.

Baler is the capital of Aurora – a province named after President Manuel Quezon’s wife, Aurora Aragon. As you begin to discover Baler and its neighbouring municipalities, you wouldn’t find it very hard to agree that the place is indeed as charming as the woman which it was named after. It has a mix of nature, adventure and history which would surely lure its visitors to stay longer than they planned to.

  A Historical Banquet

Aside from Baler being the home of the second Philippine President, it is also an abode of so many memorabilia of the past.

Museo de Baler will take you to the origins of Aurora and as well as its ethinicities. There are also sections for Manuel Quezon’s biographies and information about the last garrison of the Spanish war men. Entrance is free of charge.

The Baler Catholic Church is more than a religious shrine for it held a significant part in the Spanish-American war in the late 1890s. It was the last stronghold of the Spanish military during the infamous Siege of Baler and therefore signifies the end of the Spanish era.

The Donya Aurora House is a small ancestral house where you will see antique household stuff dating back to 1600’s or more. You will also find typical paintings and portraits of Aurora and Manuel Quezon.

  A Nature’s Treat

Nature is indeed one of the best free treats in the world and Aurora is one sure feast of a treat. From beaches to hills, rock formations to water falls and humongous trees to breathtaking views – you can definitely get all of that here.

A Balete tree has been part of the Filipino folklore for ages as it was believed to be home of supernatural beings so it is not something most people would want to have on their backyard. But this 600 year-old Balete Tree of Baler or also known as the Millenium Tree is probably the most photographed Balete tree in the country as it was considered the largest of its kind in Asia. I don’t think there would be many who would dare to take a picture with it during the night tho. :)

  Another cannot-be-missed spot in Baler is the Hanging Bridge that connects two Barangays Sabang and Tibang. This is mainly for locals to use but it has become a tourist attraction, not only because of the thrill of crossing the bridge itself, but because it gives you a better angle of the wide river’s view beneath it.

  It can be a one heck of a trek for first time trekkers to reach the Ditumabo Waterfalls but going there is already a nature adventure itself, with the falls as the cherry on top. It is worth the effort though as you indulge yourself from its refreshing and cool waters.

And as if the previous trek wasn’t enough, we then proceeded to climb the Ermita Hill where you will be able to enjoy the view of the Baler Bay among many other islets in the whole stretch of the Pacific Ocean. Atop is also a huge cross which is another popular symbolism of the religious inclinations of the locals.

The Diguisit Beach and Rock Formation was a relaxing and breathtaking beach, primarily unique because of its rock formations. It isn’t a beach ideal for a swim as the stones on the shore can be pretty sharp, but just enjoying the view is equally as satisfying as taking a dip.

  A Surfer’s Paradise

This trip wouldn’t be complete if you weren’t able to do this activity in Baler. As for me, it was truly one of the most memorable trip I had because I get to learn surfing in the “Birthplace of  Surfing in the Philippines”. The Sabang Surfing Beach is indeed a surfer’s paradise, both for starters like me and for professionals. It won’t be hard for you to get surfing lessons as most locals there can teach you and make you learn like an expert.

Learning how to surf was an amazing experience for me because it has been one of my most admired water sports ever. Just going to the beach is thrilling, but being one with the sea is beyond incredible.

So thank you Baler for this two-day short love affair we had. I didn’t know how we were able to do many things on just this short span of time but it was magnanimous. We’ll surely meet again. :)

  Wander in Baler It's raining cats and dogs outside as I speak (or write rather) and this bed-weather is a tempting time to snuggle under the sheets and watch a movie.

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Sole-ving the itch for the beach. #beachdays #out #summeralways #rocks #vsco #vscocam #vscoph #vscophile #vscofeature #vscobest #vscogallery #vscogrid

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Who wouldn't miss this during the rainy days? 👌🌊 #comebacksummer #sea #foam #shore #sand #vsco #vscocam #vscoph #vscophile #vscobest #vscogood #vscogallery #vscofeature #sinoPinas #siZambales (at Camara Island, Zambales)

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A love like no other. 💗 #mother #art #love #vsco #vscocam #vscoph #vscophile #vscogood #vscofeature #vscogallery #vscobest

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This haven is a nonstop art feast. 🏤 #architecture #grand #museum #art #vsco #vscocam #vscoph #vscophile #vscobest #vscofeature #vscogood #sinoPinas #siAntipolo

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Early dessert. 🍨 #bingsu #bgc #vscocam (at Hobing Snow Dessert Cafe)

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HPTravels_Final Edit from Hayeen Palencia on Vimeo.

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In awe with the arts. 🙌👏🎨 #art #painting #big #oiloncanvas #vsco #vscocam #vscobest #vscogood #vscoph #vscogram #vscophile #vscofeature (at Pinto Art Museum)

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HPTravels - Final Edit from Hayeen Palencia on Vimeo.