2010 Year End Note » Looking Back and Ending the Year Right

I got three pending blog posts in my to-do list mostly about Christmas, but holiday rush and excitement temporarily pulled me out from blogging. I’m thinking about posting it, but it’s already old-news because Christmas is over. So today I thought about posting a year-end recap instead. Also, I think it is the best time to write my thank-you notes.

This year has been a very good one at the least, and although I put aside some of my major plans, I intend to really pursue it next year.

On Blogging

Last September, I was inspired by other bloggers who are earning through their blog so I decided to have my own domain name and learn some basic SEO. I applied for an adsense account and earn $20.00 in four months. It’s not much, but at least I’m earning while having fun writing and sharing stuff. Writing more blog posts and taking SEO seriously will be on my goals for next year – it’s a must.

I want to thank my regular readers, thank you for reading my posts. Also I want to thank other bloggers for sharing their SEO expertise and experiences, you guys really inspire me. Thank you also for those who shared their comments, appreciation, suggestions and opinions on my posts, that makes this blog alive.

Ending the Year Right

I want to use my year-end as a time to reflect, learn and grow - this will prepare me for a positive New Year ahead. But in order to embrace the new I must release the old. An important part of preparing for a New Year is to review the past year--to release it--and to learn from it.

To get me started thinking over the past year, I listed 10 questions which I also want to share here: {My answers deleted}

1. What did I learn?
2. What did I accomplish?
3. What would I have done differently? Why?
4. What did I complete or release? What still feels incomplete to me?
5. What were the most significant events of the year past? List the top three.
6. What did I do right? What do I feel especially good about? What was my greatest contribution?
7. What were the fun things I did? What were the things that were not fun?
8. What were my biggest challenges, roadblocks or difficulties?
9. How am I different this year than last?
10. For what am I particularly grateful?

To go where we wish to go and be whom we wish to be, we need to know where we are and who we are. An honest self-analysis is always helpful to gain clarity. As we end a year, it seems particularly fitting to devote some time to reflecting on the year past and where we find ourselves as the New Year dawns.

Thank you and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

..

Wensha Spa Body Massage: Affordable Way to Reduce Stress and Bring Back Your Sanity

That last week of November still lingers. Tasks piled up and work deadlines gave me stressing thoughts even while having my morning shower – totally toxic week. Sunday comes with our annual Family Day at SMX-Mall of Asia Convention Center, which I was tasked to do the emceeing. That gig becomes a disaster due to some badly prepared program. It was totally energy draining.

Hell week

I badly need a break. This is one of those hell weeks when stress becomes too much, days when I feel like crawling down the floor or just want to melt. Now, more than ever I need to find something to diffuse this stress, to defizzle it. Hence, we decided to try Wensha’s full body massage.
 
It is a good thing Wensha Spa has a branch in Manila that happens to be the first 24 hour Spa in the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) area, just a few minutes ride from SM Mall of Asia. We decided to try the Wensha Body Massage for only 680.00 Pesos with unlimited food and drinks for 6 hours stay, a totally inexpensive way to relax and re-charge.   

A relaxing body massage is not always a luxury

Wensha poster at male reception

I noticed that Spa establishments are growing like mushrooms in Manila and other major cities nowadays. If the number of spa goers and spa establishment in Manila mirrors the amount of stress that people is experiencing, then I think it is safe to say that this is a stressful city to live in.

Spa and body massage has become synonymous with peace and serenity, which many believed to be a luxury in this stress-driven world. With the pressure of deadlines and the strain of dealing with irresponsible managers and co-employees, there is no denying that being stress-free is a state of mind that we have to master.

But I must say that body massages and a few hour of relaxation and of emptying the mind is a must to keep me sane.

What to expect at Wensha – Pasay Branch

A nice Thai temple-like entrance to the facilities welcomes us so we immediately took pictures before checking in. After the quick camwhoring, we excitedly checked out the packages and promos posted at the lobby. We choose the Wensha Full Body Massage with six hours stay.

Me and my Wensha Yakuza buddies

You have to remove and check-in your footwear and use rubber slippers before entering the locker room that connects the wet area and the dining. A  cool bracelet with a locker number was distributed to us after we paid then we proceed to the locker room to deposit our clothes and other stuff. The lockers have a sensor type locking mechanism, which are being unlocked by the magnetic part of the bracelet that is pretty convenient and secure.

1. Prepare to get TOTALLY NAKED at the wet area: After we settled our belongings in the locker room, we then proceed to the wet area for a quick shower. It was a common room where the shower cubicles with frosted glass doors, steam room and sauna is located. After the quick shower, we tried the steam room and sauna which gives me a magically detoxified feeling. The room also has a large TV screen with lounging chairs to entertain you while relaxing

Shower cubicles at the wet area

After sauna, we tried the Jacuzzi. You can only use a towel while in the wet room and you have to be totally naked if you want to use the public Jacuzzi. The wide hot and cold Jacuzzi is at the center with lots of naked people, mostly working men relaxing after a tiring day together with lots of foreigners. At first, I was hesitant to use the Jacuzzi because it was my first time there, and getting naked while swimming with other people and friends seems unusual for me. Our culture mold us to be modest, however, everybody is doing it, and I think it would be immodest if you use the Jacuzzi with your towel. Besides, the crowd all seemed oblivious to the rest of the people in the room so I tried it and it was really relaxing.

We can’t help but wonder and imagine what it would be like in the girl’s wet room.

2. Eat-All-You-Can buffet and drinks: Wensha is not your traditional massage and spa center. What makes it unique is that all massage treatments are inclusive of unlimited buffet and juice drinks and the accommodation would be that you can chose to stay for as long as 12 hours. So you can lazily eat and stay at the cozy dining area while cooking shabu-shabu style. This dining place also has TV screens projected on corner walls where you can watch news or other programs together with other guests.

Buffet and shabu-shabu before & after the body massage

 Like most eat-all-you-can resto, you have to pay a certain amount if you have left-overs. So don’t take more than you can eat.  

3. Professional body massage and a nice sleep: I learned that their therapists came from their own Wensha training institute to maintain their standard massage. They have what they called the wensha style body massage, which is a combination of Shiatsu and Swedish. Choosing to sleep after the massage would be ok and no one would wake you up if they are not fully booked, or until your time ends.

4. Convenient Body Massage rooms: They have private rooms that can accommodate two or four people. On our way to the massage area, we were greeted by a brightly-lit hallway with bamboo trees and white pebbles along the path. Massage rooms also has controlled lights. The massage beds are comfortable and nice to sleep at, which also gives me a more relaxing feel while being massaged. The whole place has Zen like ambiance, soft lighting and circular doors.

 Planning our next yakuza boy's night out

 Wensha compared to The Spa Wellness

My first luxury spa experience was when I won the 5K worth of gift certificates at The Spa Wellness in Trinoma for the Nuffnang-Enervon Hapontukin blog contest. It was an amazing treat but after our Wensha gig, I can’t help but compare the services of the two establishments. I can say that Wensha is more affordable with equal services and better facilities. But Wensha is crowded and more public unlike The Spa, which is exclusive and private, and services are done by appointment only.

Final Note:
More than anything, when stressed, I think it is a must to take time for ourselves. I’m sure my undiffused stress will result in friction with others and makes me unproductive at work — as often when I fail to have internal peace and relaxation, I manifest this outwards.

I am glad that I had the chance enjoying some relaxation and even more, that I’m able to push myself to be comfortable in yet another new experience to relax. Modesty aside, the Wensha experience certainly made me excited for my next body massage trip. This nostalgic experience at Wensha really gives me a relaxing time without hurting my wallet. It reordered and cleared my thoughts thus bringing back my sanity.

Ready for battle for the coming weeks again!!!

To my readers: How about you, any thoughts or personal tips on how you diffuse stress? Any spa experience you might want to share? Are you also anxious to be naked in front of total strangers?

_________________________
Related Information and Links
Wensha Branches Address and Contact Information:

Pasay Branch

Location: Boom na Boom Grounds, CCP Complex Roxas Blvd
Cor. Sen. Gil Puyat Ave. Pasay City
Contact numbers: +63 (02) 833-98-78 | +63 (02) 832-05-15 | +63 (02) 832-58-77
Fax:   +63 (02) 833-98-79

Timog Branch
Location: 1st and 2nd Level Pasda Mansion Bldg.
#4 Timog Ave. Cor Panay Ave, Quezon City
Contact Numbers: +63 (02) 375-13-98 | +63 (02) 372-58-22
Fax: +63 (02) 373-06-17
Both branches (Quezon City and Pasay) operates 24 hours.

Related Links:

» The Wensha Spa Center
» Wensha Spa Packages and Promos
» Wensha Spa Services and Rates
» Complaints, Problems and Suggestions and Appreciation Page 

What Makes Filipino Woman Happy?

What do women want? Freud asked the question nearly 100 years ago and confessed that his "thirty years of research into the feminine soul" left him unable to answer one great question: "What does a woman want?"

This question definitely elicits intense interest among us. That is why statistics is also trying to find answers to this question. Last week, I came across this very interesting article entitled “What makes Women Happy?” by Dr. Romulo A. Virola, Secretary General of the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB).

Dr. Virola reported that women in the Philippines rank food a lot higher than their sex life among the main things that make them happy based on the recent NSCB survey. The poll also concluded that, both Filipino men and women ranked family, health and religion in that order as the three most important things that made them happy.

Pinay respondents, however, put food in fifth place, just ahead of work. Love life came 10th and and sex life at 18th, just one rank above the bottom.

For the Pinoy Machos, love life figured in 6th place and sex life 10th, with food at 9th. So you see ladies? Sex is not the only thing occupying Pinoy’s mind – at least food ranked before sex. Ha ha. 

click image to enlarge

"This is easy to trivialise, but the unmet expectations for love and sex by either partner can surely lead to problems, and must be managed properly and professionally," Virola wrote on the NSCB website.

Naturally, for the poor Filipinos, men ranked their sex, love lives and food at the top while women said family, love life and food were top of their lists.

I’m not a fan of surveys, especially if you’re measuring happiness because we know that different individuals have different definitions and sources of happiness. Maybe they should include sabong, because it makes my Tatay very happy, or videoke singing because we all love to sing.

For the most part of, the results are obvious. These are literal and basic requirements for human needs and happiness – which reminds me of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.

How about you, what makes you happy?

________________
Source: Virola, Romulo A. "What Makes Women Happy?"

Almost Quitting » Seven Things I Do When Blogging is Freaking Me Out

I told myself not to post rants on this blog, but hey, I first made this for that purpose. So here I am again, writing random thoughts. I don’t know why I am crazy enough to own a blog and spend most of my evenings on this. In fact I don’t really know why I like blogging, but I do.

With millions of blogs out there, I fear I might just fail on this project one day. All of a sudden I feel like I’ve lost all my inspiration, I begin to cringe why I’m not achieving my blogging goals and I wonder what else I can do apart from hitting that “I QUIT” button.

I don’t want this blog to be just another “internet trash” that serves no purpose. No!… I am not going to get sentimental about this. No, not today. 

Really? Then why not get serious and divert these useless rants into something worth sharing!

Ok dear conscience, let’s try diverting this negative energy into something. Let’s try writing this useless, childish rants and try finding some sensible answers to it. This is me talking to myself again.

1. I must define my purpose. Why the hell am I Blogging?

By far this is the most fundamental question I should ask myself. Why the hell I am blogging? I came across some bloggers who say blogging can make you rich in a couple of months. I do some research and found out they are sadly mistaken. I am sure that none of this has happened in the history of blogging. Please do correct me if I’m wrong.   

Lately, I noticed that I’m developing a passion to blog, particularly on topics I like and I find it really rewarding. To add on, I like helping others through blogging by sharing my experiences. Hopefully this will put this blog ahead further.

2. I must do some planning.

What is my blogging plan for the next week? Have I outlined a set of goals concerning the things I want to achieve for the next month? Have I chosen the right topic for my next post and do some extra research or am I just blogging about useless personal rants because everyone is blogging about it?

3. I must learn from other bloggers.

When I am on my way to quit, I do bloghopping. I join forums and comment like crazy. It’s rewarding. Yes it cost me some precious time, but I think if I’m having some trouble, or having those uninspiring moments, all I need is a group of experienced bloggers to help me out. Thank you fellow bloggers, visitors and readers especially those who are sharing their thoughts here. You may not know it but you are helping me in a lot.

4. I must catch up on my reading.

While thinking of my commenting practices, I realized that if I am only bloghopping from one blog to another, looking for posts to comment on every week without actually reflecting on how that blogger can come out with that interesting topic, then I am not doing the right thing. Yes I know it is part of networking, and all that heady SEO stuff but there must be a higher purpose for that activity – it’s the search for inspiration, and of course to make blog envy as my motivation.  

However, this is one sure thing – I will learn much more and share more ideas if I will spend more time reading books, magazines, and newspapers.

5. I must break out, not freak out.

Am I too comfortable in my comfort zone? Am I blogging in that same similar way that I used to 6 months ago? Why do I sometimes fear that changing my blogging style will drive my visitors away?

These are all the questions that are running through my head right now.

But I should not start cursing, rant or whine; although that is a great attention getter for a short period of time. I realized that it is only when I break out with my comfort zone, I will begin to start learning something. I must try some experimenting. Who knows it might propel this blog to greater heights! Yattaaaa!

6. I must discover my own voice through commenting

In the real world, sometimes the best thing to do is to say something instead of just keeping my silence. In the blogosphere, I can do that by commenting on blogs. Sometimes I came across my old comments on other blogs and it’s amazing because it makes me discover my own voice and my own style. I must always remember that in commenting to other blogs, I shouldn’t just regurgitate what the blogger have said on their post. I must ask questions, expand share opinions and ideas. This will not only get their attention but also learn more from the answers.

7. I must take the medicine for bloggers

Let me make this clear - there’s no such thing as a pill for bloggers. Aspirin can cure our headaches but it won’t cure us of our blog miseries. What’s my medicine? Take a blog break. A few days of not logging in to google analytics or checking the webmaster tool or totally disconnecting to the internet. When I do this, I am surprised because that is when ideas come flowing. Some bloggers work better under pressure but for me, time off even for a day or two can turn things around.

WOW, I MADE IT! I diverted my useless rants into something. This really pull me out from the dumps. I think this blog and my blogging journey is worth continuing.

Sorry if I freak out earlier.

Blogging may be for everyone but it certainly won’t bring success to everyone – including me perhaps. But I am enjoying this - that is what matters most. I’m sure success is just a byproduct, and extra income is the side-effect.

Did I miss something here? Let me know your thoughts. I’m listening…

.

I Support Manny Pacquiao, the World’s #1 Boxer, just like Head and Shoulders, the World’s #1 Shampoo!

[SBECKNTKQZRG] I’m not actually a boxing fanatic, but I do watch fights if it’s Manny Pacquiao on the ring. His fights never fail to amaze me especially when he is dropping bombs on the ring and making his speedy antics.

Of course Pacquiao is our favorite here, and rightly so, he’s earned it. He contributed pride and glory to our nation and may be considered the country’s greatest boxer. Hopefully I could watch his coming fight with Margarito. We Filipinos should be very proud of Manny Pacquiao and we may not have another boxer of his stature in probably 10-20 years.

Let us try to be decent human beings, forget about his politics and give what is due to Manny.I cannot hardly wait to see this David and Goliath showdown this coming November 14 – hopefully I can get tickets to Cuneta Astrodome.

______________
Get a chance to watch the Pacquiao-Margarito match at the Cuneta Astrodome with a friend on November 14, 2010 via Nuffnang

Hosting Gig » Sample Wedding Reception Script for the Instant Emcee

I missed sharing this wedding I attended last month where Winz, my former officemate and a friend asked me to be their wedding emcee. This is certainly an honor but it comes with quite a burden of responsibility. Unlike my first hosting gig at JR’s wedding, where JR provided his own wedding script for us, Winz didn’t. 

Myself together with a friend already accepted the task to be the master of ceremonies for the wedding reception. Hence, we don’t have any choice but to prepare for it. The problem is we haven’t had any time sitting down with the couple to discuss the plans.  



Consequently, the day before the wedding, I was obliged to cram the whole afternoon into preparing the wedding script. Of, course I consulted Mr. Google for some ideas and was amazed to find out that I’m not the only one who is into this dilemma. A lot of friend-of-the-couple-turned-emcee is also looking for sample emcee script or guide.

Below is the sample script we used for Winz’ wedding – It’s a good thing no major disaster happened and I guess the reception ended smoothly. I’m posting the sample script here for my personal reference just in case another friend will ask me again to be their wedding host – Pero next time may bayad na – ha ha.  


So, for those who already accepted the hosting task and at a lost, I want to share here the basic wedding program and the sample script I prepared. Hopefully it will help you too.   

_______________________

Introduction
 
Host A: Yodi
Host B: Atty. Rhesa

A: Good evening Ladies and Gentlemen. May I have your attention please.

B: We are about to begin our Dinner Reception so please find a seat and make yourself comfortable.

A: Let us begin this celebration with a prayer. Let us all stand, bow down our heads and put ourselves in the presence of God.

B: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.

1. Opening Prayer

    Heavenly Father,

    Love has been your richest and greatest gift to this world.
    Love between a man and a woman which matures into marriage.
    Today, we celebrate that love.
    Lord for the joy of this occasion, we thank You.
    For Your presence here and now and at all times, we thank You.
    Protect, guide, and bless Rannie and Wincell and everyone present here.
    Surround us with Your love now and always.
    In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

    Amen.

2. Welcome Address

A: A very good evening to everyone and welcome to Rannie and Wincell’s Dinner Reception. We are done with the solemn part of the celebration and we thank those people who were with us earlier at the Nuestra Señora de Guia Church for the wedding ceremony.

B: And for those who just join in, Welcome! And so, here we are on this lovely reception at the Rosas Garden Hotel for the most exciting part - the Dinner Reception for our newlyweds in celebration of the beginning of their new life together.

A: So sit down, relax and enjoy the rest of the evening.

I am Mr. Yodi Insigne and my partner Ms. Rhesa Regio, the newly wed’s friends had been given the task by the bride herself to be your emcee for tonight. We thank you all for gracing this joyful occasion especially to those who took a leave of absence from work or from school and to those who have traveled from the province just to be with us.

B: In behalf of Rannie and Wincell and their parents, we would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for your presence at this memorable occasion. It is indeed a pleasure to have you all tonight

3. Introduction and Acknowledgements

Parents of the Newlyweds

A: Before anything else, we would like to acknowledge the key persons who took a great part of this joyous affair. For without their support, this event would not be made possible. Ladies and gentlemen, it is with great pleasure to introduce to you the Parents of the Bride, Mr. Winefredo Majaba and Mrs. Aracelie Majaba.

They just arrived from Marinduque we suppose. Sir, Madam, welcome. A big round of applause please.

B: And of course, we are truly happy to have here with us Mrs. Paz Sollano the mother of the Groom. And of course we are sure Mr. Jose Sollano is also very happy watching his son’s wedding in heaven. Friends, let us give them a big hands. 

Principal Sponsors

{Provide short background info for each sponsor}

A: We would also like to acknowledge our Principal Sponsors. Let’s start off with the ladies. Please stand as your name is called.

B: Now let’s call our Gentlemen sponsors. Kindly stand as your name is called.

So there you have it ladies and gentlemen, our most distinguished set of principal sponsors.

A: Thank you for being with us tonight. Let us once again give them a big round of applause.

Family and Friends / Guests

B: A wedding brings two people and their families together. It refreshes the family ties and friendship that have gone stale and almost forgotten against the toll of time and distance. For this allow us to give a very special welcome to all who have traveled all the way from the province to be here with us today.
Thank you for taking the time out to be with us.

A: Also we would like to thank all the relatives and friends who are here with us. We are so happy that you can be with us.

So I guess that’s about it. On behalf of Rannie and Wincell, we would like to thank you all for coming tonight.

4. Entrance of the Bride and Groom

B: At this point I assume that everyone has settled down and we are all ready to welcome the newlyweds. Tonight calls for a grand celebration and it is our distinct pleasure to introduce to you for the very first time Rannie and Wincell as husband and wife.

A: So without any further ado, let us all rise and give our warmest welcome to Mr. and Mrs. Rannie Sollano........ Music Maestro

(Newlyweds enters the hall)

B: Congratulations Rannie and Wincell and best wishes to both of you. We wish you to be blessed with a long and happy life together with your future children.

A: So there you have it ladies and gentlemen our new lovely couple. Let us again give them a big round of applause.

5. Dove Release

B: The bride and groom will now do the dove release. May I request the newly weds to please come forward and each get a dove.

A: The two doves signify Rannie and Wincell being released to start a new journey together. Like the two pairs of dove, whatever happens they will always try to seek the comfort of each other and their home together. This is where they know that they will find love A dove always choose one mate for life, and signify love, faithfulness, joy, and hope,

B: Rannie and Wincell are now ready so we will now release the doves. At the count of three release the doves. Ready when you are. One... Two... Three... and... off they go!!! That was really beautiful.

6. Bridal Waltz First Dance

B: Tonight is indeed a special night and will forever be etched in the memory of our beloved couple. For tonight marks the beginning of their new life together. From this day forward they shall be one, and on this joyful beginning what could be more fitting than to celebrate it with their First Dance.

A: The First Dance is symbolic of the consummation of their wedding vows. This Dance is the wedding couples' first cooperative engagement and joint endeavor. As the saying goes, “It takes two to tango.” Ladies and gentlemen, it is once again my privilege to present to you Mr and Mrs Rannie Sollano with their First Dance.

(Newlyweds dances their First Dance)

B: Thank you Rannie and Wincell, Let us once again give them a big round of applause .

7. Grace Before Meals

B: Well I guess the food is now ready and dinner will commence shortly. May I call on __________________________ to say the grace before meals.

(______________________comes forward to say grace before meals)

8. Dinner

A: Thank you _____________________. So there you have it ladies and gentleman.

B: Dinner is served. You are all hereby invited to partake dinner. You may now get your food at the buffet table. . Please enjoy your meal. And always, "ladies first"


9. Table Hopping for Souvenir Pictures

A: May I have your attention please, I guess by now everyone had their fill of our sumptuous food prepared by __________________________. We would like to thank Rosas Garden Hotel for the wonderful accommodation and service that they are providing us here.

B: At this point the newlyweds would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone personally for your presence. Rannie and Wincell will now go from one table to another to greet each and everyone and to have their souvenir picture taking with their guests.

A: Simultaneously, our Matron of Honor assisted with some members of the bridal entourage will be distributing the wedding giveaways and will be routing the guest book so please stand by in your seats.

10. Cutting of the Wedding Cake

B: We will now resume with our program. and its time for desert. We have here a beautiful wedding cake.

A: May I now request Rannie and Wincell to do the honors of cutting the wedding cake.

(Newlyweds comes forward to cut the cake.)

{optional} --- There you have it ladies and gentlemen, the cake has been cut. May I now request the waiters to please serve the cake to our guests.

(Waiters serves the cake to the guest.)

11. Best Man's Toast to the Bride and the Groom

B: A celebration is never complete without a toast and a bottle of good wine. Let us now prepare for the Best Man’s Toast to the bride and the groom. .

A: Ladies and gentlemen, it takes a strong and intelligent man to realize his dreams and achieve his goals in life and love. A man that is not afraid to live life to its fullest and embrace what is truly important. Their best man is here to talk about Rannie and Wincell, two people who have come together today to form a union that will surely last forever.

(INSTRUCTIONS:Best Man raises his glass and addresses the newlyweds as he speaks...)

Best Man: Wincell you look wonderful. Rannie is lucky to have found such a wonderful gal to share his life with. I'm truly honored that they have chosen me to be their best man on this most important day of their lives. I wish you both peace and happiness in your new life together and may God bless your union.

(INSTRUCTIONS:Best Man still raising his glass and addresses the guests as he speaks...)

Everyone let us all stand and raise your glasses and join me in for a toast to Rannie and Wincell.

(INSTRUCTIONS: Best Man waits for everyone to stand up and see to it that everyone has raised their glasses and them say…)

Here’s to good health, happiness, good luck and prosperity to Rannie and Wincell. Cheers!!!

(Everyone makes a toasts and drinks from their glasses)

B: Thank you ladies and gentlemen, you may now be seated.

12. Well Wishes from Family and Friends

B: It is said that our parents are our first teachers having raised us patiently from childhood to adulthood. They have been our source of comfort, support and inspiration.

A: Rannie and Wincell are truly blessed with such wonderful parents and I’m quite sure when it comes to knowing what marriage is all about, they always have a word or two to share to their children.

B: We would like to call on the Mother of the Bride, Mrs. Aracelie Majaba to say a few words of wisdom and best wishes to our newlyweds

{mother blah blah}

Thank you so much Madam for that inspiring message.

A: And now we would like to call on the Mother of the Groom, Mrs. Paz Sollano to say a few words of wisdom to our newlyweds.

{mother blah blah}

B: Thank you Ma’m. In behalf of our male principal sponsors, we would like to call on ___________________ to say a few words to Rannie and Wincell.

{Call anybody who wants to give a message}

Thank you. Last but certainly not the least, we now call on _____________________ to say a few words to Rannie and Wincell in behalf of the female principal sponsors.

A: Thank you Madam, and thank you all...lets us again give them a big hand for such wonderful and meaningful speeches.

13. Bouquet Throw

B: Ok now let us all have some fun and its time for the traditional Bouquet Throw.

A: At this point we would like to request all the single ladies to please come forward for the bouquet throw. We would also like to request the bride to come forward and take her place center stage.

B: Ladies kindly take your place behind the bride and be prepared to catch the bouquet.

A: It is said that whoever will catch the bouquet will soon be the next bride. So is everyone in? Ready when you are - at the count of three the bride will throw her bouquet.

May I also request the audience to please join me in the counting.

Ready when you are ladies. Let us now do the countdown.

One….Two….Three……and there it goes.

B: May I request for the lady who was able to catch the bouquet to please come forward

Congratulations Miss, May I have your name please.

(INSTRUCTIONS: Emcee draws the microphone to the lady .)

Ok let’s give a big hand to Miss ___________. Please have a seat beside the bride and in a moment we shall find your match in the garter Toss.

14. Retrieval of the Garter

B: Before we go on with the Garter Toss, the groom is to retrieve the garter from his bride. So may we request Rannie and Wincell to please come center stage and do the garter retrieval ritual.

(A chair is in the center for the bride to sit. while groom kneels down at the bride's feet ready to retrieve the garter)

Ladies and gentleman the groom will now retrieve the garter from the bride.

(Groom retrieves the garter from the bride.)

A: There you have it ladies and gentlemen; the groom was finally able to retrieve the garter. Let us give him a big hand.

15. Garter Toss

B: Ok it is now the gentlemen's turn and we will now do the garter toss. May I now request all single men to please come forward for the Garter Toss.

(INSTRUCTIONS: Emcee motions and waits for all single men to come forward)

Gentlemen please take you place behind the groom and be ready to catch the garter.

So is everyone ready? At the count of three the groom will throw the garter and again we request the audience to participate in the countdown.

(INSTRUCTIONS: Emcee makes sure that everyone is in place)

Ok ready when you are guys. One….. Two……Three…… and .....off it Goes !!!!

(Groom throws the bouquet and the gentlemen tries to catch it.)

16. Matchmaking Ritual

A: May I request for the gentlemen with the quick hand who now have in his possession the garter.

Sir please come forward and take your place beside the lady who has the bouquet.

B: Congratulations Sir. May I have your name please.

(INSTRUCTIONS: Emcee draws the microphone to the gentleman.)

Thank you Mr. ___________, Friends lets give this gentlemen a big hand.

A: Now that we have already found a perfect match. The next bride and groom to be. It is time for another ritual.

B: The gentlemen who got the garter is to put it on the lady who caught the bouquet. At this point we would like to request Ms. __ _________to please have a seat while Mr. ___________ will put the garter. Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. __________ will now put on the garter on Ms. _________.

(Lady takes a seat while gentleman puts the garter on her.)

A: There you have it ladies and gentlemen. Our new lovely pair and if it would not be too much to ask we would like the gentlemen to give the lady a quick kiss.


B: Thank you Mr. _______ and Ms ________, Let us give them both a big hand

At his point, we request that both of you remain onstage for the picture taking. The newlyweds will now pose with our lovely new pair.

(INSTRUCTIONS: Emcee stands aside as photographers take pictures of the pair with the newlyweds.)

A: Again Thank you Mr. _______ and Ms ________ for your participation, you may now return to your seats.

17. Giving of Tokens

B: We are truly grateful not only for the presence but also the wonderful cooperation of our principal and secondary sponsors as well as the members of the entourage.

A: Rannie and Wincell and their parents would like to express their sincerest gratitude for all their help and support and for making this memorable occasion a great success.

B: We would like to request our Matron of Honor, Ms. __________________ to distribute our tokens of gratitude to both our Principal and Secondary Sponsors and to our guests.

18. Message of Thanks from the Newlyweds

B: The night and this celebration has almost come to an end but for our newlyweds it is just a start of their new life together.

A: As we each go home, may this day be memorable for all of us as it is to them. To personally convey their heartfelt gratitude let us now lend an ear to Rannie and Wincell

(Rannie and Wincell delivers their message of gratitude.)

19. Closing Remarks

B: Well I guess that’s about everything ladies and gentlemen we have finally come to the end of our program.

A: It has been a great day and a wonderful evening with you all.

Again thank you all for your presence.

God bless and Goodnight to each and everyone.

---END---

Happy hosting!

P.S. Winz, share some pics please!

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Image Source: Singing in the Pain by Piercarlo Carella Surreal Drawing

The Blogosphere » How To Help Google Identify Web Spam

A useful note from Google worth sharing:

Everyone who uses the web knows how frustrating it is to land on a page that sounds promising in the search results but ends up being useless when you visit it. We work hard to make sure Google's algorithms catch as much as possible, but sometimes spammy sites still make it into search results. We appreciate the numerous spam reports sent in by users like you who find these issues; the reports help us improve our search results and make sure that great content is treated accordingly. Good spam reports are important to us. Here's how to maximize the impact of any spam reports you submit:

Why report spam to Google?

Google's search quality team uses spam reports as a basis for further improving the quality of the results that we show you, to provide a level playing field for webmasters, and to help with our scalable spam fighting efforts. With the release of new tools like our Chrome extension to report spam, we've seen people filing more spam reports and we have to allocate appropriate resources to the spam reports that are mostly likely to be useful.

Spam reports are prioritized by looking at how much visibility a potentially spammy site has in our search results, in order to help us focus on high-impact sites in a timely manner. For instance, we're likely to prioritize the investigation of a site that regularly ranks on the first or second page over that of a site that only gets a few search impressions per month. A spam report for a page that is almost never seen by users is less likely to be reviewed compared to higher-impact pages or sites. We generally use spam reports to help improve our algorithms so that we can not only recognize and handle this particular site, but also cover any similar sites. In a few cases, we may additionally choose to immediately remove or otherwise take action on a site.

Which sites should I report?

We love seeing reports about spammy sites that our algorithms have missed. That said, it's a poor use of your time to report sites that are not spammy. Sites submitted through the spam report form are reviewed for spam content only. Sites that you think should be tackled for other reasons should be submitted to us through the appropriate channels: for example, for those that contain content which you have removed, use our URL removal tools; for sites with malware, use the malware report form; for paid links that you find on sites, use the paid links reporting form. If you want to report spammy links for a page, make sure that you read how to report linkspam. If you have a complaint because someone is copying your content, we have a different copyright process--see our official documentation pages for more info. There's generally no need to report sites with technical problems or parked domains because these are typically handled automatically.

The same applies to redirecting legitimate sites from one top level domain to another, e.g. example.de redirecting to example.com/de. As long as the content presented is not spammy, the technique of redirecting one domain to another does not automatically violate the Google Webmaster Guidelines.

If you happen to come across a gibberish site similar to this one, it's most likely spam.

The best way to submit a compelling spam report is to take a good look at the website in question and compare it against the Google Webmaster Guidelines. For instance, these would be good reasons to report a site through the spam report form:

• the cached version contains significantly different (often keyword-rich) content from the live version
• you're redirected to a completely different domain with off-topic, commercial content
• the site is filled with auto-generated or keyword-stuffed content that seems to make no sense

These are just a few examples of techniques that might be potentially spammy, and which we would appreciate seeing in the form of a spam report. When in doubt, please feel free to discuss your concerns on the Help Forum with other users and Google guides.

What should I include in a spam report?

Some spam reports are easier to understand than others; having a clear and easy-to-understand report makes it much easier for us to analyze the issue and take appropriate actions. Here are some things to keep in mind when submitting the spam report:

• Submit the URLs of the pages where you see spam (not just the domain name). This makes it easy for us to verify the problem on those specific pages.
• Try to specify the issue as clearly as possible using the checkboxes. Don't just check every single box--such reports are less likely to be reviewed.
• If only a part of the page uses spammy techniques, for example if it uses cloaking or has hidden text on an otherwise good page, provide a short explanation on how to look for the spam you're seeing. If you're reporting a site for spammy backlinks rather than on-page content, mention that.

By following these guidelines, your spam reports will be reproducible and clear, making them easier to analyze on our side.

What happens next?

After reviewing the feedback from these reports (we want to confirm that the reported sites are actually spammy, not just sites that someone didn't like), it may take a bit of time before we update our algorithms and a change is visible in the search results. Keep in mind that sometimes our algorithms may already be treating those techniques appropriately; for instance, perhaps we're already ignoring all the hidden text or the exchanged links that you have reported. Submitting the same spam report multiple times is not necessary. Rest assured that we actively review spam reports and take appropriate actions, even if the changes are not immediately visible to you.

With your help, we hope that we can improve the quality of and fairness in our search results for everyone! Thank you for continuing to submit spam reports and feel free to post here or in our Help Forum should you have any questions.

Source:  Google Webmaster Central Blog 04 Nov 2010 02:02 PM PDT Written by Kaspar Szymanski, Search Quality Strategist and John Mueller, Webmaster Trends Analyst

Ten Ways to Escape Work and Afford a Vacation

It's reality. It's not easy to escape work for a mini-vacation. However, it is necessary to be more productive and of course we always deserve it as a reward for hard-work. 

I want to share here ten tips if you're planning to escape your stressful office for a mini-vacation.

1. Let the trip be the inspiration.

This is the best tip I can provide. Always consider the trip as a reward to yourself. The trick is to set your mind to it and to be flexible with your travel plans to get the most value from your hard earned money. Plus, being spontaneous about your travel destination can be half the fun of the vacation.

2. Finish your paperwork, file your vacation leave and be prepared.

First things first. If you have a specific trip in mind and already booked a flight, then finish your pending paperwork at the office. Also, file your vacation leave in advance so that when something in the office came up, your boss will make necessary arrangements to distribute tasks to other teams - no hurt feelings. Some bosses don't like their employees having a mini vacation while the office has some unfinished projects, so schedule the trip on a non-hectic day and the key is to act fast.

3. Set your budget for your vacation and save for it in advance

You are more likely to take that office escape if you set aside your budget ahead of time. Alternatively, you can also set a clear target price range for your trip, including extra expenses for pasalubong (take-home gifts) and miscellaneous expenses. Once the budget is set, you’ll feel more comfortable in planning your trip quickly.

4. Know your barkada or office-mates' travel style, and stick to it.

Would you rather lie on the beach all day, bond with your barkada drinking vodka all day or see as many sights as you can? It's best to identify the type of vacation you and your travel companions want up front. Also if you are traveling with other group, it's best to know their travel style. Do they prepare food on their own, what are their bonding moment activities, are they in for camwhoring etc. It is important because if you're only a guest traveler on that group, you maybe surprise when you discover that they are on a diet and you didn't bring extra food on you own like what happened to us in our Majayjay trip.

5. Look for all-inclusive packages.

Bundled pricing makes your vacation planning easy. All-inclusive resort vacations are being offered with big discounts at certain time of the year.The key here is extra research and bartering skills. Famous destinations are fighting over business right now, and you never know who’s going to come out with the next great deal, promos and discounts.

 

6. Understand seasonal travel trends.

Masses of people attend the Flower Festival in Baguio in February. Travelers flock to Boracay during summer. These events drive prices up, so it’s cheaper if you plan your trip on off-peak season and you’ll have easier access to activities than at busier times of the year.

7. Avail airline promos

You can save a thousand pesos on airfare just by availing airline promos. You’ll find the best fares generally offered six months to one year ahead so you better be on the look-out for these deals. Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific offer big airfare deals which is mostly on book-and-buy scheme. Early booking is great because you will have plenty of time planning and saving for the trip.

8. Do the art of canvassing.

Be sure to look for and compare prices, amenities and extras when making your travel decision. You should ask ahead for any available upgrades or freebies or inclusions as they increase the value of your stay and experience. Plus, it can save you a lot of money.

9. Ask for the smaller details

The package deal might look amazing at first, but think about how much you’ll be spending on food, entertainment, and pasalubong shopping while you’re traveling. It's always good to ask smaller details  such as airport transfer and other transportation requirements, service fees, entrance fees and corkage. Also, always ask if you can cook in the resort, it can save you a lot of money.

10. Utilize online resources to score the best deals.

Let online travel tools do the hard work for you. It is easier to do your research on social media such as Multiply and Facebook for promotional discounts and contest giveaways to the latest in travel.This is also a great way to save.

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Bohol Tour » Three Island Adventures in Panglao You Should Not Miss

This will be the last in the series of posts about our Bohol Tour (whew! finally.) I should’ve posted it on consecutive dates but my evil foe Mr. Procrastination was always winning lately – blame it on the rain and cold weather. To keep the life flowing on this blog, I deliberately posted some “inserts” in between my bohol tour series. Also, I intentionally reserved our Panglao island hopping escapade to be on the last because for me, this is the most memorable and exciting part of our tour – maybe because I’m a water-and-sunset hopeless-romantic type (weeee).

Don’t miss these three activities if you want to visit Bohol: 


1. Dolphin Watching /Chasing) – Pamilacan Island

I didn’t expect that on this year, I would wake up on a paradise, lazily prepare to go on a boat trip, to chase dolphins.

Well, that is exactly what we did to escape SSDD (Same Shit Different Day) this year – we chase dolphins in Pamilacan Island, how about that for a change? It sure was a lot of fun plus seeing the diverse natural underwater creatures was a sure treat. 

 It's hard to take picture of the dolphins, so we just took some videos

I’ve seen dolphins before in a trained dolphin show in Subic but not those swimming freely in an open sea. These Panglao dolphins are not the common trained entertainers but I’m sure you will enjoy it because I saw other foreign and local tourists, also chasing dolphins who are seemed to be transported in a chorus of jolly cheers and high spirits. Likewise, we are so thrilled everytime we saw school of dolphins jumping off the water. Not too long, the area looks like a cheering contest, with a number of boats carrying other tourists who are also in for some visual and chasing thrills.

2. Finding Nemo - Snorkeling at the Balicasag Island 

It’s now time to calm ourselves after we got our dose of morning adrenaline rush from the thrilling dolphin chase. We docked at the sandy coral line beach of the picturesque Balicasag Island and immediately prepare to look for Nemo. The locals in the island offer fresh fishes and seafood for lunch so we order fresh octopus/squid and a kilo of fish first and have it cooked, while we do our snorkeling spree.

We boarded a smaller banca to bring us to the sanctuary where we will look for Nemo.

Compared to my snorkeling experience in Boracay, the fishes here are more colorful and friendly and showy. We brought with us a pack of loaf bread for the fishes (and for our merienda of course.) I suggest you bring your own loaf of bread for the fishes because the price is tripled if you will buy it on the island. They also provide snorkeling gear and aqua shoes.

Sea urchins offered by bankeros to be eaten raw with vinegar.    

After an hour and a half of fun in finding Nemo and feeding his colorful relatives, we decided to come back to the island for lunch. We had a really delicious fresh sinigang, and adobong pusit – Hakuna  Matata!

3. The Virgin People: Island hopping at the Virgin Island

Our sumptuous lunch re-energized us so it’s now time to sink an Island! We had another few minutes of motor – banca ride from Balicasag until we saw this amazing oasis amidst the open and pristine sea – it’s the Virgin Island!

 What makes this island notable is the long and looping shallow white sand shore that looks like a slightly submerged white semi-circle bridge.

our calendar-girl travel buddies

the beach boys

A few meters on both sides of the “sand bridge” are shallow sea-grass that gives the water a dramatic turquoise touch drifting into dark blue.

Of course, we immediately ready ourselves for our favorite shot – the JUMP SHOT!

On our way back to our resort, we had a quick nap at the banca, we are all exhausted but still, we got this light feeling. Somewhere on the deep recesses of our mind are the happy memories and the bond that this trip brought us.

Our hide-out at the Alona Beach

This is the view that will greet you every morning

calm reflections

when the clock stops ticking

The struggle of the clouds vs. the rising sun

peace on a bloody sunset

Yodz's Note:

We all have busy corporate lives, but this tour and other trips like this gives us the opportunity to pause the bundy clock. To touch base again. My best memories are forged on trips, so I do whatever is necessary to save some money to make an occasional out-of-town trip. Our next stop, maybe Palawan.

Here's the summary of our 2-day Bohol Tour:

» Tagbiliran City Tour
» Visit to Chocolate Hills
» The Blood Compact Site
» Bohol’s Famous Old Churches » Baclayon, Dauis and Loboc Church, Panglao Watchtower
» Minor Stopover » Tarsier Viewing, Man-made Forest, Hanging-bridge, Python and Ostrich Viewing
» Loboc River Buffet Luch Cruise, Hinagdanan Cave, Bohol Bee Farm

___________________________

Our tour was arranged by C. Rule Tours and Transpo Services, which offers the cheapest package tour in Bohol for only 3,000 Pesos per head (all-in). I advise you avail of a promo fare from PAL or Cebu Pacific first to save on airfare.

Inclusions:
    * Aircon transfer from airport/ pier to hotel/resort and vice versa.
    * Aircon van for day 1 and day 3 tours
    * Hotel/Resort accommodation (2nights)
    * All entrance fees and permits in all tours
    * Buffet lunch at Loboc River Cruise at day 1
    * Motorized banca for BalicasagIsland(one of the best 3 dive site in the world)
    *dolphin watching and snorkling/swimming.
    * Snorkel Gear / Mask & individual lifeguard/guide.
    * Driving tour guide

Contact Details:

e-mail: c.ruletours@yahoo.com

Mobile: Kuya Cirilo 0917 6310388 or 0922 8748768

More Info Here: http://sulit.com.ph/563742


INFORMATION ON WHERE YOU CAN STAY AT ALONA BEACH
(Our hide-out at the Alona Beach - Highly recommended!)

PLAYA BLANCA de ASTERIA Heritage House
alona beach, danao, panglao, bohol 6340
cel# 09203535708-aster (owner/ general manager)
cel# 09309355875-gene
tel# 502-8307 (evening phone)
tel# 502-4117 (day phone)
email: aster_blessing@yahoo.com

-all rooms are provided with cable TV, private toilet & bath with hot & cold shower.
-wi-fi ready
-beachfront (20-25 meters away from the beach)
-room rate only. no breakfast included
-extra person (mattress only) -Php 200 per head

for convenience, we can also arrange you for:
-massage
-bohol island tours
-boat trips (Island hopping/ Dolphin watching)
-diving packages
-motorbike rentals
-car for hire with driver or self-drive
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