#Filipina Insights

[filipinawanderer]

From Beaches to Mountains: The Beauty of Philippine Landscapes

From the pristine white-sand beaches of Boracay, the Philippines is a realm of incredible landscapes waiting to be explored. Dive in with the #FilipinaWanderer as we uncover the beauty of these natural wonders. 🏖️⛰️ #TravelinthePhilippines

The Philippines, an archipelagic country nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, is a treasure trove of awe-inspiring landscapes. From the white-sand beaches that ring its islands to the majestic mountain ranges that pierce the sky, the country boasts an array of natural wonders that leave visitors and locals alike, spellbound. The Beckoning Beaches The Philippine archipelago is studded with…

[thewonderfulworldofjubile3le3]

GM, Today we will talk about the word " Integrity" and how it is my favorite word.

[formulatrash]

i read through a lot of your posts while procrastinating on an essay tonight - i really appreciated your insights ❤️ i’ve been thinking about ~women in motorsport~ lately and i’m honestly furious that ferrari is *demoting* maya because f1a is cheaper and it’ll be good PR, after she kicked ass in one of the shittiest freca teams, when they could’ve funded a better team for her in the first place, only for the end goal to be going back to freca in 2025?! it honestly feels like sabotaging her career, the opposite of what f1 academy says it wants to achieve.

i’m tentatively hopeful for doriane, because she’s already proved herself racing against men, and she has an existing relationship with prema. but man do i know how cruel and unforgiving motorsport is for young drivers and especially women with the weight of an entire gender on their shoulders - one bad season and immediately every female driver is complete shit.

do you have any thoughts on all the bianca bustamente discourse? because the last few days have been exhausting - i’m annoyed as hell at her liking the tweet & the non-apology but i know sooo many people cackling with glee over the opportunity to tear apart a woman in motorsports and it’ll stick with her forever, unlike many problematic men in the paddock 🫠

honestly? I don't think this is a Bianca problem.

Bianca is a teenager whose first language isn't English. I am autistic and I absolutely understand how hurtful people using it as a derogatory term can be; I had to moderate comments through the Max Verstappen vs Mongolia incident and honestly, probably some percentage of why I am so mad still.

Bianca liked a tweet that was supportive of her, in denial of her being overrated. she probably didn't even read all of it. she's not the issue here.

the issue here is F1 twitter. F1 social media at large. I guarantee every little horror show who's been wringing their hands and crying and howling about this - an opportunity to demand a young woman of colour gets fired from their hated papaya team - has sent shit to, for instance, LastLapLucy or me or anyone else who's openly autistic. I guarantee all of them have said worse.

no one in this discourse actually cares what an F4 driver likes. why are they looking at that? because she's pretty and successful and Filipina. because people want to tear her a new one for existing. none of this is about Bianca or Stroll, it's about two things:

-that's an F1 Twitter tweet. Bianca didn't write it, the shitty minds that brought you "hounding Matt Bishop off Twitter with homophobic abuse" did - they are the problem and frankly were probably just trying to bait Bianca into liking something they could cancel her for

-the sheer gross eagerness to tear apart a teenage girl because people hate that she is pretty and learning her craft as a racing driver.

[mariacallous]

The Fabulous Mythmaking of Imelda Marcos

by Sheila S. Coronel, Oct. 7

Should dictators—and their families—be forgiven? This is the question at the heart of Filipino writer Nathan Go’s debut novel, Forgiving Imelda Marcos. As members of the Marcos family have returned to power in the Philippines—decades after Imelda and her husband, President Ferdinand Marcos, were ousted after a 1986 revolt—a new generation of Filipinos has started to produce books, art, and theater that seek to restore the memory of the Marcos dictatorship.

Go’s novel, Sheila S. Coronel writes, is part of this “still-fledgling effort to shed light on the dark era of dictatorship.” In her review, Coronel—a Filipina journalist who reported on the abuses committed by the Marcoses in the 1980s—weaves Go’s narrative with her own experiences to offer insight into why the Philippines readily welcomed back a family that “used their power to hack public memory, elude justice, and silence dissent.” Despite the Marcoses’ efforts, Coronel writes, “memory—and trauma—cannot be completely erased.”

[beasiannow]

Things seem to have taken a bold advance at the travel agency known as Gaikoku Hito Rinjin (Foreigner Neighbor), where through the use of super science, foreigners have been able to visit Japan not as awkward tourists but as someone seemingly native-born, appearing not just physically Japanese, but fluent in the language and customs of the area visited. 

Then three weeks later, the visitor returns spontaneously to their former self so they can return home with the most unique vacation memories possible. (unless they are part of the + or – 11% who find they don’t change back.)

As promised, the brilliant scientist founder of Foreigner Neighbor, Hiroko Rokkaku, has figured out how to expand the transformation matrix beyond just Japan and opened up the capability to visit anywhere in the world.

Mind you, this has also raised the number of persons finding themselves unable to return to their original selves from an 11.77% chance to a 23.55% chance. But like Subway not really going into detail about how little tuna is in their tuna; if you don’t talk about that a lot, most people won’t go looking for it.

Because of the expansion of options, Gaikoku Hito Rinjin has re-branded itself as

Global Immersive Travel Adventure Odysseys.

Travel has never been more exciting. Or a more interesting gamble.

Here we see four satisfied customers. (Names withheld because of their wealth)

“Nancy,” a controversial cable “news” hostess taking some time off from the heat, and notoriety, of being herself by spending three weeks on a small Philippine Island as a Filipina.

“Jimmy,” the son of a prominent Kentucky politician, here seen during his six-week tour as a female citizen of Seoul, Korea, where before his return to Frankfort, Kentucky as football hero Jimmy, she was able to get a brief part on a Korean drama.

“M” a Moderately famous female rapper taking a tour in Osaka.

And “don’t even use my initials,”  the female head of a former major firm seen to be on trial for fraud, sunning herself in Indonesia. (she tried to bribe Global Immersive into her “accidentally,” not being able to turn back and losing the paperwork on where she is. Sorry, but GITAO doesn’t play that! Get a good lawyer, honey.

However yes there are those (23.55%) who find that when it time for them to change back to original form them, they don’t. And not only that but people who have the still unknown component in them that causes this to happen are unable to ever go though the process again so they are permanently this new version of themselves.

However yes there are those (23.55%) who find that when it time for them to change back to original form them, they don’t. And not only that but people who have the still unknown component in them that causes this to happen are unable to ever go though the process again so they are permanently this new version of themselves.

Such as Susan Billie Abbot a highly accomplished journalist and finance graduate from Brown University. Who after graduating in 2013, she began her career in journalism and finance, first as a financial analyst at JP Morgan & Co. in New York City. From there, she moved to the Wall Street Journal and was quickly noticed for her reporting on world finance. In 2018, Susan won several prestigious awards for her work, including the Pulitzer Prize for Journalism. 

Following her success in journalism, Susan decided to take a break from her career and explore the economies of South-East Asia. She has since been on a journey of discovery, learning about the conditions and trends of the region's economy and its effects on the world. Susan has worked with some of the top financial institutions in the region and has been praised for her insightful reporting. She is currently on hiatus, researching the present-day conditions of the economy in South-East Asia.

Here she is finding out that after her three week fact finding tour she is one of the sort of people who can not turn back and must keep the new identity she was using (to be truthful we are not really all that “legal” and if government found out what we are doing the results would be dire for all involved) so that Susan Billie Abbot, American finance reporter, is now truly Syazana Binti Zainal Abidin, Mayla woman and citizen of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Fortunately GITAO was able to see to it that Syazana had to paperwork to get work at the largest bank in Kuala Lumpur, as a teller. But we are sure a go-getter like Ms. Abidin will be moving up in the ranks swiftly.

Some other customers who will be adjusting permanently to a new life elsewhere.

Paulette Patton of Ontario, Canada. An anthropology major who thought her term paper on “real life in modern Vietnam” would be helped by a three-week stay as a native of Saigon. Now that this study will continue for the rest of her life, at least Phuong finds that tuition is much less expensive where she is now.

June “Rosebud” Flowers of McComb, Mississippi, thought that if she could spend a little time “over there” as “one of them” “walking a mile  in their burka.” She would be able to take her Witnessing up two or three notches. However, she had not anticipated finding she had to stay in Istanbul as Haziran “Gül Goncası” Çiçekler for keeps or that she would be the one converting.

An interesting double-stuck pair of travelers is a would-be female rocker who uses a secondary color as her stage name (No, NOT Pink!”) who thought that a trip into India as an Indian woman would help her music even more than the Beatles trips to India as just themselves helped them  (nobody tell her). 

She was joined on what she thought would be a three-week tour by her show business manager Murry who was so dedicated to his client that he also agreed to not only take the change with her but also become a woman so they could save on hotel bills by staying in the same one as mother and daughter.

Mauve is doing her best to find where Indian music today “is” while Murry, well Murry, is adjusting as best she can.

[felicityxflores]

Is it patriarchal in the Philippines during the pre-Hispanic period?

Following my sources, the Philippines followed a matriarchal system long before it was colonized by Spain. Filipinas’ underlying power and strength are based on pre-colonial indigenous Philippine customs. In traditional times, women were allowed to own property, engage in trade, and hold the position of village chieftain in the absence of a male heir. Women were given such power that they could dissociate from their husbands if they so desired.

Women, known as babaylans or catalonans, were also strong and regarded as high priestesses and healers. The term “Babaylan” pertains to a pre-colonial Philippine tradition of female mystical healers whose spiritual connection was a source of political and social power. The Babaylan, or healer, was generally a woman, and when a male takes on this role, he must dress as a woman. They were looked up to because of their understanding and wisdom.

The native people respected, worshipped, and approached them with devotion, even in fear. Their words were taken seriously, and their abilities were praised.

When troubles emerge in communities and there are no other options, the Babaylan is called; she will execute rituals and chants to drive away the spirits that created the disturbance. These values have affected the Philippine culture over time, giving women a greater influence.

With the unfortunate invasion of the Spanish colonizers, the Patriarchy was instituted. The Spaniards reorganized indigenous Philippine culture, limiting and assigning women to the home to care for the family and manage the household. The long history of colonialism has embedded a patriarchal culture among Filipinos. Considering native Filipinos’ beliefs were based on kinship and respect, sexism was barely an idea.

To summarize, the Filipinos gratefully acknowledged their women throughout the pre-Hispanic period, resulting in a matriarchal society. It’s disheartening to imagine that after all these years, we believed we were dominated by patriarchy when, in fact, women had more control. Colonialism may be beneficial to education and the economy. This, however, upsets our culture and tradition.

Note: Good day, Ma'am! I published this insight on September 10, 2022. However, WordPress kept on crashing, which is why I opted to use Tumblr instead and continue my insights here.

References:

Galila, W. (n.d.). The Power of Pinays. Retrieved from https://www.somapilipinas.org/community-1/powerofpinays#:~:text=At%20its%20core%2C%20Philippine%20society,default%2C%20become%20the%20family’s%20treasurer.

Saldua, A. D. I. (2012, February 22). The Role of Women from Pre-Hispanic to Spanish era. Retrieved from https://tonkshistory.wordpress.com/2012/02/22/the-role-of-women-from-pre-hispanic-to-spanish-era/

Filipino Lifestye., (2016, March 3). Pre-Colonial Philippines’ Longstanding Tradition of Women Leadership and Mysticism. Retrieved from https://filipinawomensnetwork.org/epahayagan/did-you-know-pre-colonial-philippines-longstanding-tradition-of-women-leadership-and-mysticism

[kimberleyreid]

Should Fixing Dating Take 9 Steps

It is usually easy to start dating with Filipina. So what I did was just start the music I had recorded as a separate track beneath the dialogue, and used the “time shift” tool to move it so that Norma’s breath-suck came right after the door slam at the end of the dialogue. At a speed dating event, participants are paired up in a series of quick five- to seven-minute "dates." When the time is up, a bell or timer is rung, and participants move on to their next one-on-one conversation. נערות ליווי בקריות That’s when she does the quick suck-in of her breath you hear right before I start talking in the bumper. Published start times can be found in the event description. This suggests that people first encountering IndieWeb either at an event or in chat will be exposed to conversations and presentations of recent technical developments. Its claim to be an alternative to the corporate Web suggests an opportunity to contest some features of the Web with which I disagreed during my freelance career. I used Soundflower and Audacity to record audio from the episode while it was playing on my computer.

I also mentioned that it’s possible to do noise removal in Audacity, which is especially useful if you have a track that has a good deal of ambient noise (like a refrigerator, wind, computer fan), or if you have had to amplify a track to get it to be loud enough, but have also amplified the ambient noise too (Rochelle says doubling tracks can help avoid this problem). There are also issues because the rate of cosmic ray bombardment of the planet over time has not always been stable: but this problem is largely redressed by a calibration factor. BUT, I wanted there to be music throughout the bumper, so I recorded a section of the episode that had mostly just music. You can mask this if you want, and even perhaps remove the need for noise removal altogether if you add some nice background noise (like maybe a recording of being outside with birds, or a street scene), or use music behind dialogue. I wanted some background music as well as something that would be good to end the bumper with, so I chose a couple of sections from what I had recorded and cut and pasted the two different parts together.

The nature of the music worked with just silence before it. I added some silence (by cutting and pasting from a silent part of one of the recordings) right after the breath-suck-in, and then started the first piece of music over which I would speak. Then, perhaps sometime shortly before the "Arab Spring" in 2010, the powerful people in governments started noticing that the Internet had given not only the minions but also other ordinary people more power to communicate and to organize in ways governments did't necessarily like. It was a socioeconomic master/slave relationship, and the masters had no idea that the slaves possessed the insight nor the ability to use the tools they had been given to become their own masters. While the moment in time at which a particular nucleus decays is unpredictable, a collection of atoms of a radioactive nuclide decays exponentially at a rate described by a parameter known as the half-life, usually given in units of years when discussing dating techniques. Using the SHRIMP, selected areas of growth on single grains of zircon, baddeleyite, sphene, rutile and monazite can be accurately dated (to less than 100 000 years in some cases).

6,090 years, and 5900 ± 250 years. For over 10 years, thousands of happy men and women have met their soul mates on AfroIntroductions and have shared their stories with us. Trans women are just women, and trans men are just men. Moreover, the chapters dealing with the earliest periods are the closest in language and focus to classical works of the Warring States period. Technology was adding to the tax base of cities and states. In: Behaviour & Information Technology 25.2, pp. The US government began using secret courts to issue secret orders to large corporations to tap into the information flowing into corporate servers, especially cell phone and email traffic. Lacking any type of technical education whatsoever, nor the slightest interest for that matter, CEO's and government leaders had no understanding at all of the nearly limitless uses that would one day be realized. The chinese government coerced Google into moving all the information it had collected from chinese citizens onto servers on chinese soil, where they have the authority to sift through it just as the US government had been doing. Since you need a few seconds of just the noise you want to remove in order for this to work, it’s really helpful to make sure you wait a few seconds when doing a recording before you start speaking, playing music, what have you.

[filipinos2meetapp]

How to Chat with Filipinas: Tips for Building Genuine Connections on Filipino2Meet

Are you interested in connecting with Filipinas and finding meaningful relationships online? With the rise of dating websites, meeting new people has never been easier. However, knowing how to chat with Filipinas in a respectful and engaging way can make a huge difference. Filipino2Meet is a popular dating website in the Philippines that can help you meet and connect with Filipinas. This guide will provide you with tips and strategies to make the most out of your online conversations.

Understand the Cultural Context

Respect and Politeness: Filipinas value respect and politeness in conversations. Begin your chats with a friendly and courteous tone. Avoid making overly personal or inappropriate comments early on.

Family-Oriented Values: Filipinas often place a strong emphasis on family. Show genuine interest in their family values and traditions. Asking about their family can be a good conversation starter.

Cultural Sensitivity: Familiarize yourself with Filipino culture and traditions. Understanding local customs and practices can help you avoid misunderstandings and build a stronger connection.

Start with a Warm Introduction

Personal Greeting: Start your chat with a warm and friendly greeting. A simple "Hello" or "Hi" followed by a compliment can set a positive tone for the conversation.

Share About Yourself: Briefly introduce yourself and share some interesting facts about your life. This can help the other person get to know you better and feel more comfortable opening up.

Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage conversation by asking open-ended questions. Instead of yes-or-no questions, ask about their hobbies, interests, and favorite activities.

Be Genuine and Authentic

Show Real Interest: Be genuinely interested in getting to know the person. Avoid using generic lines or copying and pasting messages. Tailor your conversation to what you’ve learned about them.

Be Honest: Honesty is key in any relationship. Be truthful about your intentions and what you’re looking for. Misleading someone can lead to disappointment and mistrust.

Share Your Feelings: Don’t be afraid to express your emotions and feelings. Being open and honest about how you feel can help build a deeper connection.

Engage in Meaningful Conversations

Discuss Shared Interests: Find common interests and build conversations around them. If you both enjoy similar activities or hobbies, use this as a basis for deeper discussions.

Talk About Future Goals: Discussing future aspirations and goals can help you understand each other’s values and long-term plans. It also shows that you are serious about getting to know them better.

Avoid Negative Topics: Stay away from negative or controversial subjects early in the conversation. Focus on positive and uplifting topics to create a pleasant chat experience.

Be Patient and Respectful

Give Space: Don’t rush the conversation or push for personal information too quickly. Give the other person space to open up at their own pace.

Respect Boundaries: Respect their personal boundaries and comfort levels. If they seem uncomfortable with a topic, steer the conversation in a different direction.

Be Understanding: Cultural differences may lead to varying communication styles. Be understanding and patient as you navigate these differences.

Utilize Filipino2Meet Features

Profile Insights: Take advantage of the profile information available on Filipino2Meet. Use the details provided to tailor your conversations and show that you’ve taken the time to learn about them.

Messaging Tools: Use the messaging features on Filipino2Meet effectively. Whether it’s chat, video calls, or voice messages, choose the format that works best for fostering a connection.

Follow Up: If you have a great conversation, don’t be afraid to follow up. Express your enjoyment of the chat and suggest continuing the conversation at a later time.

Stay Safe and Secure

Protect Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive personal information early in the conversation. Maintain your privacy and only share details you’re comfortable with.

Report Issues: If you encounter any issues or suspicious behavior, report it to the dating website’s support team. Your safety is a priority, and dating websites like Filipino2Meet often have measures in place to protect users.

Trust Your Instincts: Trust your instincts and be cautious if something feels off. If you feel uncomfortable or uneasy, it’s okay to step back from the conversation.

Conclusion

Chatting with Filipinas can be a rewarding experience if approached with respect, authenticity, and patience. By following these tips and utilizing Filipino2Meet effectively, you can build genuine connections and potentially find meaningful relationships. Remember to be yourself, show genuine interest, and respect cultural differences. With these strategies, you'll be well on your way to having successful and enjoyable conversations with Filipinas.

[ultimate-guide-to-kapedefilipina]

The Ultimate Guide to Kape de Filipina: Experience the Best Coffee from the Philippines

Coffee lovers across Europe are constantly on the hunt for new flavors and unique stories behind every cup. Among the rising stars in the coffee world is the Philippines, an emerging gem that offers a variety of distinct coffees rich in heritage and flavor. Leading this revolution in Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands is Kape de Filipina, a Berlin-based brand dedicated to bringing the finest Philippine coffee to European coffee enthusiasts. By celebrating the heritage and quality of Philippine beans, including the celebrated Barako, the term used by Filipinos to refer to Liberica coffee, Kape de Filipina is redefining how European coffee lovers experience and appreciate coffee from the Philippines.

A Brief History of Philippine Coffee: The Roots Behind Kape de Filipina

The story of coffee in the Philippines began in the 18th century when Spanish colonizers introduced coffee plants to the fertile lands of Batangas. Over time, coffee farming spread to other provinces like Benguet, Cavite, and Bukidnon, where the combination of rich soil, ideal altitude, and tropical climate helped shape the country’s unique coffee profiles. The Philippines soon became one of the world’s leading coffee producers, known for its robust and diverse varieties, including Arabica, Robusta, Excelsa, and Liberica. However, the industry faced setbacks in the 19th century, including pest infestations and economic challenges, which led to a significant decline in production.

Today, the coffee industry in the Philippines is experiencing a renaissance. Thanks to the dedication of local farmers and a growing global appreciation for unique coffee origins, Philippine coffee is gaining recognition for its rich flavors and distinct profiles. This resurgence is fueled by passionate growers who have returned to traditional farming methods while also embracing sustainable practices to ensure quality and environmental stewardship.

Kape de Filipina is at the heart of this coffee revival. Based in Berlin, the brand connects coffee lovers in Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and the rest of Europe to the rich coffee heritage of the Philippines. By sourcing directly from Filipino farmers and cooperatives, Kape de Filipina not only brings authentic, high-quality coffee to Europe but also supports fair trade and ethical practices. Every cup you enjoy helps empower local farmers, preserve traditional farming methods, and promote sustainable agriculture.

Why Choose Kape de Filipina?

Kape de Filipina isn’t just about coffee; it’s about preserving traditions, supporting local farmers, and celebrating Filipino heritage. By focusing on sustainability and ethical sourcing, the brand stands out in a crowded market, particularly in Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands, where there is growing demand for high-quality, ethically produced coffee. Each bag of Kape de Filipina coffee tells the story of its origin—whether it’s the cool highlands of Benguet, the volcanic soils of Mt. Apo, or the sun-kissed fields of Batangas.

For more insights into Kape de Filipina’s journey and how it’s bringing Filipino pride to Europe, check out this feature on GMA.

Exploring the Unique Flavors of Kape de Filipina

Kape de Filipina offers an array of coffee that showcases the diverse flavors of the Philippines. Here’s a closer look at what sets our offerings apart:

Barako: The Rare Liberica BeanLiberica coffee, known in the Philippines as Barako, is distinct for its bold, full-bodied taste and unique aroma. Grown primarily in Batangas and Cavite, this coffee is characterized by flavors of dark chocolate, cacao nibs, and light notes of tropical fruits like jackfruit. It’s a rare find, making up less than 1% of global coffee production, and is a staple in many Filipino households. Kape de Filipina’s Liberica is perfect for those seeking a strong and exotic brew that stands out from typical Arabica or Robusta.

Arabica from the HighlandsSourced from the lush highlands of Benguet and Bukidnon Kape de Filipina’s Arabica beans are known for their smooth, balanced flavors. These beans have bright pleasant acidity, a rich body, and flavor notes ranging from milk chocolate and nuts to subtle floral hints. The processing methods used in these regions bring out the best characteristics of each bean, making them ideal for espresso, pour-over, or French press brewing.

Specialty Coffee from the Volcanic Soils of Mt. Apo and Mt. MatutumEvery Arabica bean from Kape de Filipina is specialty-grade, carefully chosen to showcase the best of the Philippines’ coffee-growing regions. The beans from the volcanic soils of Mt. Apo and Mt. Matutum stand out for their rich flavors, shaped by nature and skilled farmers. Think deep cocoa, sweet brown sugar, and a touch of ripe fruit. Each sip offers a taste of the lush, volcanic highlands, connecting you to the land where these exceptional beans are grown.

Brewing Tips: How to Enjoy Kape de Filipina Coffee

To truly appreciate Kape de Filipina’s unique flavors, it’s essential to brew it correctly. Here are some tips for making the perfect cup :

Espresso Lovers: Kape de Filipina’s Sayet and Mt. Matutum Arabica beans are ideal for espresso, delivering a rich, intense flavor with a strong aroma that espresso enthusiasts will appreciate. 

Pour-Over: For a smooth, balanced acidity and bright flavors, try the Bukidnon Arabica or the Liberica (Barako) beans. These varieties are perfect for pour-over methods, allowing their distinctive notes to shine through.

French Press: For a fuller, richer brew, use the Mt. Apo or Atok Arabica beans in a French press. This method will bring out their deep, chocolatey undertones and robust character.

Where to Buy Kape de Filipina

Ready to explore the best of Philippine coffee beans? Kape de Filipina’s range is available online, bringing a taste of the Philippines directly to coffee enthusiasts in Germany, Austria, the Netherlands and across Europe. From the bold and earthy Liberica to the delicate and nuanced Benguet (Atok and Sayet) Arabica, there’s a coffee for every palate.

Discover more about Kape de Filipina’s commitment to quality and sustainable sourcing on the Kintal Creative Studio website, where each coffee tells the story of its origin and the hardworking farmers behind it. You can also check out our inspiring story and impact on the local coffee industry in this video.

Shop now and bring the rich flavors of the Philippines to your cup with Kape de Filipina!

[lalaryneee]

Pregnancy in the Great White North: Estela’s Journey

Pregnancy is a journey filled with a mix of changes and challenges, which can be both exciting and demanding. For Estela a Filipina mom, this journey is proving to be even more challenging as she prepares to welcome her third child. Estela lives in Canada, with her husband and two kids. Each day brings new surprises as her body goes through noticeable changes and her mind races with thoughts and plans about the future. Managing the needs of her two older children, adjusting to a new baby, and maintaining her own well-being requires mindful planning. Throughout her third pregnancy, we will gain insight into how it affects her physical health, cognitive outlook, and socioemotional well-being, exploring the challenges of her daily life, relationships, and sense of self.

Estela, currently 32 weeks into her pregnancy, has noticed significant physical changes in her daily life. Despite this being her third pregnancy, it has proven to be the most challenging compared to her previous ones. Estela attributes this difficulty, in part, to her age. She was 26 when she had her first child and 29 for her second, whereas now, at 38, the physical demands of pregnancy seem more intense.

During her first trimester, Estela experienced a particularly tough phase which is discomfort and fatigue. These challenges made her make the decision to stop working. Previously, she worked 10 hours and four days a week. The stress from her job and the physical demands of pregnancy made it harder for her to keep working.

Estela also faced several specific physical challenges during her current pregnancy. She has noticed significant changes in her appearance, such as swelling in her nose and face, which has affected her self-esteem. Despite receiving compliments from others, who say she looks "blooming," Estela struggles with feeling unattractive. Since becoming pregnant, Estela had to make adjustments to manage the physical demands of her pregnancy. Physically, she has found even simple tasks difficult; walking or going grocery shopping becomes exhausting after just 10 minutes, leaving her feeling unwell. Bending over to perform tasks like putting on clothes or tying her shoes is now challenging, requiring her to ask for assistance. Previously very active and engaged in daily household chores, now her routine has drastically changed. The activities that once filled her day have been replaced by a much more limited set of tasks. Her current daily routine revolves around a basic cycle of eating, sleeping, and frequent trips to the restroom. The fatigue and physical discomfort she experiences have made it difficult for her to engage in her usual household activities. She now spends most of her time resting and conserving her energy. Reflecting on her previous pregnancies, Estela recalls feeling more comfortable during the first trimester, even with morning sickness, but this time the experience has been markedly different, likely due to her age.  

To manage her health, she is taking three types of medication: one for high blood pressure, one to alleviate nausea, and one aspirin to help prevent preeclampsia. These medications have contributed to her grogginess, making it even harder for her to stay active and maintain her previous level of productivity.

Pregnancy has significantly influenced Estela’s emotional well-being and outlook on life. From the moment she received a positive pregnancy test, she experienced a range of intense emotions. The unexpected nature of the pregnancy left her in disbelief and struggling to accept the news, as it had not been part of her plans. During the first trimester, she was overwhelmed with frequent crying, reflecting a state of emotional stress and exhaustion.

The unplanned nature of this pregnancy led to changes in her short-term goals and personal plans, including adjustments to her wardrobe and daily activities. However, living in Canada has provided some practical support that has helped her manage these challenges. Despite no longer working, Estela receives financial assistance from the government, which, while modest, helps cover bills and groceries. This support is set to continue after the birth of her child, including an additional allowance for the baby, which is a big help to her financial stability during this uncertain time.

Estela’s pregnancy had a notable impact on her relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. She is particularly grateful for her husband’s constant support during this time. Despite the challenges of dealing with cravings for Filipino foods, like kakanin, which are not available in Canada, her husband has always been there to give comfort and help.

She has also observed a cultural difference between Canada and the Philippines in how pregnancy is viewed and supported. In the Philippines, she recalls feeling self-conscious due to comments from coworkers and others, such as remarks on her appearance or restrictions on her diet and activities. These comments often contributed to feelings of self-doubt and pressure.

In contrast, the culture in Canada has provided a more supportive and encouraging environment. People around her, including friends and colleagues, have been attentive and positive, frequently saying words of encouragement and affirmation about her pregnancy and her baby. This positive reinforcement has a major effect on her well-being. Additionally, the generosity of her friends, colleagues, and church members in providing nursery items has been a source of support, making her feel valued and cared for.

If Estela were in the Philippines, she might face criticism for her physical appearance or perceived inactivity, such as being labeled as lazy for resting or being urged to engage in more physical activity. However, the supportive environment in Canada has made her pregnancy journey more manageable and positive, contributing to her overall sense of gratitude despite the stresses of pregnancy.

One of the most memorable and special moments for Estela during her pregnancy has been the organization of her first-ever baby shower. This event, arranged by her friends, colleagues, and church members, has been a highlight. Estela was excited and touched by the difference in how the event was handled compared to her experiences in the Philippines. In Canada, the initiative to organize the baby shower came from her community, allowing her to simply relax and enjoy the occasion. Her friends created a baby registry, listing items she needed or wanted, which made it easy for them to select appropriate gifts.

The generosity and support of her Canadian community have been very helpful. Even though Estela did not ask for help, her friends and acquaintances insisted on contributing, including providing essential baby items like clothes. This level of community support was particularly helpful, especially given her initial concerns about affording necessary items such as rent, nursery essentials, and a car seat for the baby. The car seat was very important to purchase, as it is mandatory for transporting a newborn home from the hospital, and its high cost was a bit concerning. Fortunately, her community came together to raise funds to buy the car seat, easing one of her major worries.

Additionally, Estela is looking forward to the benefits that her baby will receive as a Canadian citizen. This includes access to various government benefits, which provides further reassurance and support during this important time in her life. Overall, the support and generosity from her Canadian community have made her pregnancy journey more memorable and positive, highlighting the difference a caring and proactive support system can make.

Estela’s journey through her pregnancy has been both challenging and eye-opening. Discovering she was expecting her third child at 38 was a significant surprise, leading to a rollercoaster of emotional highs and lows. The unexpected news initially overwhelmed her, leaving her feeling exhausted and drained, particularly during the first trimester. Her daily life had a big change, from the activities she once enjoyed, such as household chores, became increasingly difficult as she battled fatigue and grogginess from her medications. Emotionally, the pregnancy reshaped her outlook on life, with the supportive environment in Canada showing a clear gap to what she might have faced in the Philippines. The encouragement and practical help from friends and community members such as organizing a baby shower and providing essential baby items helped ease her concerns about affording necessary items like a car seat. Estela’s experience shows that having a supportive community can greatly impact life changes, like pregnancy illustrating how cultural differences and community support can significantly influence one’s journey.

[gracelaramusings]

Day 5: Puerto Princesa- Tribes and Butterflies

Goal: arrange a tour for tomorrow to get us to Sabang. All else follows.

Of course, we still have not seen the best of Puerto.

The preferred means of transportation in Puerto (and Philippines generally, it seems?) is what they call a tricycle. Often colorfully-spray-painted attachment to a motorcycle where a few passengers can sit- like a multi-person sidecar.

Once we arranged the tour, we were free to do all the other stuff. We took a tricycle for a tour to some of the highlights— a lookout point over the whole area, a place called Baker’s Hill which is known for- yes, you guessed it- it’s bakery, and an ecological butterfly farm. As is typical with us, we didn’t read up on much, so when we reached the butterfly farm/tribal center, we discovered that it was an extraordinarily exceptional place. It turns out the founder befriended leaders of a tribe after years of trust-building. He purchased land to build the butterfly sanctuary and created another sanctuary of sorts- a place where families of the tribe could come for weeks at a time and share their way of life with outsiders, then returning to their homes in the jungle.

Blow darts, two-string guitars, flint sparks and more, it took us just a little bit to realize this was not a horse and pony show, but real tribesman that were showing us their skills. Once we understood this, it elevated the experience manifold.

Returning just in time for dinner, we went to the restaurant we heard was one of the best in town. Fortunately, it was across the street from our hotel! And it absolutely lived up to its reputation. The restaurant was in a traditional house. You had to remove your shoes prior to entering, and everyone had their own basket drawer to place them in. We were led to a table, surrounded by beautiful artwork and statuettes, masks and more, that looked as if they could be African but, we surmise, were Filipino. A beautiful menu with tons of options, we decided upon the set menu for two which would give us tastings of all the best things. The waiter was so unbelievably patient with all my questions to make sure the dishes were vegetarian. He replaced a dipping sauce that contained oyster sauce with a mango dip (yum!) and more! The meal was delicious, the presentation was impressive and the surroundings were beautiful. I later took a walk around the “house”, entering an area reminiscent of the sacred tree in Avatar. The gift shop was amazing. It even had cook books! One caught my eye, and in retrospect, I am bummed I didn’t buy it- a Filipina vegetarian cookbook! Many of the ingredients seemed inaccessible and unfamiliar to me. It was also in part a political treatise, by a Filipina who studies political science and shared his insights about political strife in Philippines and around the world. I’ll look it up again someday, or I’ll just have to come back one day to the restaurant and buy it there.

After our delicious crème brûlée served in a coconut, we collected our sandals and made our way back. Tomorrow, Sabang!

[filipinawanderer]

The Role of Social Media in Digital Marketing

Dive into #FilipinaWanderer's insights on the transformative role of social media in digital marketing. Discover how to build connections and drive engagement with your audience. #DigitalMarketing #SocialMediaInsights

Social media has emerged as a powerful tool in the realm of marketing. As a Filipina Wanderer who has traversed the digital landscape extensively, I’ve witnessed how social media can effectively drive brand engagement, foster authenticity, and build impactful connections with the Filipino audience. Sharing these insights to equip you with the knowledge to leverage social media in your digital…

[btswynnaupdates]

The journey of Ms. Nonah Galvez - Pla

Instant Mom Season 1 Episode 6

Nonah Pla, also known as NONAH DESIGNS, is my cousin-in-law. She is a professional #webdesigner and is renowned as the first Filipina Shopify expert in the field of web design. Nonah has created websites for prominent clients such as Apartment 8 Clothing Apparel ( @apartment 8 Clothing Apparel ), Radiant Jewelry ( ​⁠ @radiantluxjewelryphilippin3665  ) , #ivanaalawi Skin , #magnolia and many more, including over 8 international clients. She serves as an inspiration to me, not only as a successful #businesswoman but also as a dedicated mother of four and a loving wife to my cousin. Nonah Pla, who also goes by the name NONAH DESIGNS, is my cousin’s wife. She’s a professional web designer and is widely recognized as the FIRST Filipina expert in Shopify for web design. Nonah has crafted websites for notable clients such as Apartment 8 Clothing Apparel, Radiant Jewelry, Ivana Alawi Skin, Bounty fresh, Vision Express and more, including over 8 international clients. She serves as an inspiration to me, not just as a successful entrepreneur but also as a devoted mother of four and a loving wife to my cousin. Join us tonight at 6pm, as she shares her incredible journey and insights into managing the responsibilities of becoming an instant mother of four during the pandemic, all while excelling in her career and caring for her family.

Watch it on Behind The Scenes with Ynna on YouTube!

[centraldenoticiasmx]

¿Qué es mejor? La medicina alternativa o la tradicional

¿Qué es mejor? La medicina alternativa o la tradicional. México ha integrado especialidades tradicionales en su sistema de salud. Este fenómeno refleja una creciente demanda y una búsqueda de atención médica personalizada.

Prácticas como la acupuntura, el yoga y el uso de hierbas medicinales son cada vez más aceptadas Por Notipress La aceptación de la medicina alternativa, o tradicional dependiendo del punto de vista, en países como India y Filipinas, registra cerca del 28% y 26% de los encuestados por Consumer Insights de Statista. Esta tendencia también es notable en Suiza, Sudáfrica y China, donde el 24% de la…

[dgblueknight20]

If you know I gave Simmons two oc daughters, then you’ll know I haven’t really said much about how or where he got them.

Lulani and Kiya lived on a tropical planet that was invested by a zombie like virus.

Lulani somehow ended up being biologically related to Simmons as I developed her because of the detail of her not liking Simmons at first.

So perhaps that’s one of the reasons why he ended up on that planet?

She was living with one of his aunts and uncles when it happened.

Before I ever write this fic one day. One of the things I need is what to call the planet and the name of Kiya’s mother.

Her mother was a sex worker before she became pregnant with Kiya and the virus broke out. She then became one of the leading scientists trying to find a cure or vaccine to prevent anyone else getting infected.

She is a POC woman but I struggle with what region of earth her grandparents originate from. I was going to go with Black Muslim but would that be stereotyping somehow? The fact I’m asking this is probably yes…

Kiya herself is half black. That parts not going to change.

Neither Kiya, her mom, nor her bio dad (whose not important and is likely dead due to the zombies) is white in any way.

So I want to ask for ideas and (maybe get some site references for culture and stuff since I’m a biracial Asian (Caucasian/ Filipina) that’s light skin, use to be pale as a ghost, and is American (you know how well education is around here)- man, there’s a lot of () here.) a place that can help give accurate translations, because why would settlers forgo the heritage they want to preserve including language?

Now I have no idea what current slang, and newly developed customs would be integrated in RVBs current timeline/ history, so I will have to stick with current era (it’s 2024 of posting) way of speaking.

I’m very lacking when it comes to details and is generally confused at default.

Lulani is a bit easier I feel. Might not be true, but one can hope.

Whelp, I hope to gain insight from someone that knows world building since I only have base ideas I don’t feel confident in implementing at the moment.

The tropical planet itself has a wide variety of ocean life and is split into three seas. The land is a mix between natural uh “earth?” “Dirt?” Whatever and man made structures/ land masses.

The people who live on the planet don’t want it to turn into a massive tourist trap or get hurt because of the people in authority or corporate groups trying to get a piece.

The original settlers had negotiated for a representative to sit in government meetings, a representative in each department and level actually, and that they will only accept an inhabitant as the official president and vice president- honestly who would let an outsider that isn’t going to stay on the planet or be a person of the planet be in charge?

Procedures for residences and such were one of the first things they worked on.

Blugh I’m tired.

I’ll think about this later.

[psycholojosh]

I'm back in therapy....

Since the start of the new year, I've re-enrolled in psychotherapy once again. It's long overdue, in fact.

In May 2023, I got myself evaluated by a psychiatrist (who was comprehensive in his evaluation, unlike some) and got diagnosed with ADHD. (This can be for another story/post.) After that, I got myself started with medications. I take Ritalin (10mg/tab) as needed, so I only take it during work-heavy days or when I have scheduled clients for psychotherapy or assessments.

It's been helpful. But the timing of my diagnosis came with some unfortunate experiences and hardships in life (but some awesome and heartwarming ones too) plus a recently concluded therapy cycle from my previous therapist. When I would tell loved ones and peers about my diagnosis, they kept asking me, "So, kumusta ka after discovering that?", and I usually replied saying that I was okay. Spoiler alert: I apparently wasn't - and it was hard to recognize that early on.

Eventually, one challenge came after another and I just found myself in dark places mentally and emotionally. I took it upon myself to seek advice from people I trust and respect. My (proxy) program adviser, Doc Div, gave the most impactful one. (Again, could be another story.) She told me that my struggles, existential questions, and emotions are valid, and that I also owe it to myself to take care of me. And so I did.

Doc Div advised me not to return to my previous therapist (she/her) because, as the latter's supervisor, she didn't think that she could journey with me about these problems I had. So through the help of a colleague from work, I found a new one who he thought could help and I would resonate with well enough.

My new therapist's name is Teddi. She's based in the US but is a Filipina and a co-founder of a clinic in Metro Manila. We have online sessions. On the first session earlier this month, we immediately clicked (professionally, of course). And she immediately made me tear up and make me feel emotionally safe. And she actually understood me right away and already planted some seeds of insight to cultivate.

We just had our second session last night. I'm tempted to talk about it in-depth right now, but I think that would warrant whole other story. (Hahaha!) But, let's just say that this second session made me cry sad and hopeful tears. I felt like there's hope for me after all, and that even if the pathway to growing is painful and scary, I don't feel so alone.

For now, I wanna reflect on things she and I talked about. But, I wanted to share this here because maybe it could find someone who is struggling - maybe not in the same way - to seek help when they can.

Here's to growing... ❤️‍🩹