No, this is not a post for Valentine's Day. Haha
Corazon means heart in Spanish. Am I right? I discovered a place in Batangas called Casa Corazon. Hence, this explains the title.
We have been having our annual spiritual retreat in Caleruega for three consecutive years. Everyone at the workplace loved it there. This year, we were surprised with a major adjustment. We will not be seeing Caleruega in 2013. We were informed that we will be housed for three days at Casa Corazon in Lemery Batangas. It was my first time to hear the place. My instant help companion, Google! I searched for blog posts, reviews and prayed that the place maintains a website. I found a few reviews and pictures of Casa Corazon. One thing however surprised me, it was a resort. They have swimming pools and some recreation facilities. In my mind, the place may not be suitable for a spiritual retreat.
We left Manila last Wednesday and as always, I love the long drive away from the city. Since we were heading to Batangas, we passed by Tagaytay. The view of the Taal Lake, pineapple fields, colder temperature, the lush mountains and the clear roads never fail to refresh me.
We reached Casa Corazon in less than 2 hours. We were given our room assignments and a chance to explore the place. Let me tour you to Casa Corazon through pictures.
Let's move upstairs! I love the stained glass window that illuminates the staircase. Though some of my friends would tell me that it looks like a piece from an old church. The classic chandelier also contributes to the place's antique atmosphere.
One of our colleagues was assigned to this room. I don't know what happened but come night time, we discovered that they transferred to another room. My friend who has this talent of seeing extraordinary beings also said something that frightened us more. Our group of 6 colleagues slept in another room, which I failed to take photos. Fail!What I instead have in my camera is a compilation of other interesting pieces.
The blue pair of Bally is to die for! It may not be clear from the photo but I was treated to a feast of Nine West, Yves Saint Laurent and more signature brands.
Casa Corazon's ancestral house is a priceless treasure. However, allow me to make some comments about the place. I don't know if it's true, but I heard from a colleague that the resort's management doesn't really accommodate guests in the ancestral house. So I guess we were privileged to be given a three-day stay. I hope the resort's management will not negatively take my feedback. As a guest, I believe that they should have housed us in their regular family rooms. More than the eerie and creepy atmosphere that haunted us for days, the ancestral home will be better off if it remains to be preserved.
Another concern about the ancestral house is the lack of adequate shower rooms, toilet and water supply. I don't know if the resort's management has been exerting efforts to resolve this problem. The lack of continuous water supply caused us some unnecessary stresses. When I woke up in the middle of the night, I have a feeling that they intentionally turned off the water supply. There was no working faucet even in the comfort rooms of the lobby. I was already willing to use and share my own drinking water with my friends. My agitation further intensified because even the timba (water pail) and tabo (dipper) were gone out of nowhere. I can't believe that someone was so smart and talented to annoy us. Though the next day, we quite discovered who inconsiderately hid these bathroom necessities. Clue: It's not any of the resort's employees. (Hi C. and W! You two know what I mean.)
In the morning, taking a bath also became a burden because of the weak flow of water. In order to address this problem, I made a little sacrifice by taking a bath before I sleep. Unfortunately, my body is not used with this practice. This explains the colds and fever I have to endure as I'm typing this post.
On the last day of our retreat, our Chaplain informed us on how we ended at Casa Corazon. The resort's owner, being an alumni of our school, accepted what our school's budget can afford. Thank you Sir! May your good heart be continuously blessed. At some point, this prevented me from complaining. However, I believe that we are still customers. In addition, I believe in the advertising power of "word-of-mouth." Every great service rendered is like news that possess its own wings to reach everyone.
Another major concern during our stay was the quantity of food served to us. I know I shouldn't complain. One of my colleagues talked with one of the food servers and we were surprised to discover that the entire caterer was from Manila. They were just outsourced by Casa Corazon to feed us. This may not be Casa Corazon's direct fault but the caterer has a lot to improve. The servings, the cleanliness of the utensils and the taste of some dishes can still be made better.
My blog post for Casa Corazon is not yet done. The place is so abundant to be squeezed in one post. Expect more pictures and experiences on my next posts.
Fore more information about Casa Corazon, visit their website and Facebook account.
Corazon means heart in Spanish. Am I right? I discovered a place in Batangas called Casa Corazon. Hence, this explains the title.
We have been having our annual spiritual retreat in Caleruega for three consecutive years. Everyone at the workplace loved it there. This year, we were surprised with a major adjustment. We will not be seeing Caleruega in 2013. We were informed that we will be housed for three days at Casa Corazon in Lemery Batangas. It was my first time to hear the place. My instant help companion, Google! I searched for blog posts, reviews and prayed that the place maintains a website. I found a few reviews and pictures of Casa Corazon. One thing however surprised me, it was a resort. They have swimming pools and some recreation facilities. In my mind, the place may not be suitable for a spiritual retreat.
We left Manila last Wednesday and as always, I love the long drive away from the city. Since we were heading to Batangas, we passed by Tagaytay. The view of the Taal Lake, pineapple fields, colder temperature, the lush mountains and the clear roads never fail to refresh me.
We reached Casa Corazon in less than 2 hours. We were given our room assignments and a chance to explore the place. Let me tour you to Casa Corazon through pictures.
This is the reception area and office of Casa Corazon. It's a residential site that was turned to a museum and office.
The house looks modern from the outside. Wait until I give you a virtual tour of the owner's place.
Inside the house are antique wooden pieces and a lot of vintage mirrors. The house literally has mirrors everywhere.
Let's move upstairs! I love the stained glass window that illuminates the staircase. Though some of my friends would tell me that it looks like a piece from an old church. The classic chandelier also contributes to the place's antique atmosphere.
A living room welcomed us in the house's second floor.
Can you see the picture frames from the left?
I would like to believe that they are the ancestors of the resort's owner. We were frightened by the vintage photos but during our free hours, we spent most of our time in the living room. Wifi signal is strong in this area (haha) so never mind the creepy feel.
Here are more interesting pieces in the living room.
A mah jong table also rests in the living room. Look at the intricate carving details of each chair.
Another detail to love! The living room's center table is supported by a heavy metal carving.
Classic hardbound law books which I believe belongs to the family's patriarch.
Framed certificates of stock ownership as early as 1930s, these papers exist way before World War II.
I checked one of the rooms and I was surprised with the classic wooden canopy bed
One of our colleagues was assigned to this room. I don't know what happened but come night time, we discovered that they transferred to another room. My friend who has this talent of seeing extraordinary beings also said something that frightened us more. Our group of 6 colleagues slept in another room, which I failed to take photos. Fail!What I instead have in my camera is a compilation of other interesting pieces.
Imeldific!!!
Some pieces that caught my attention
Casa Corazon's ancestral house is a priceless treasure. However, allow me to make some comments about the place. I don't know if it's true, but I heard from a colleague that the resort's management doesn't really accommodate guests in the ancestral house. So I guess we were privileged to be given a three-day stay. I hope the resort's management will not negatively take my feedback. As a guest, I believe that they should have housed us in their regular family rooms. More than the eerie and creepy atmosphere that haunted us for days, the ancestral home will be better off if it remains to be preserved.
Another concern about the ancestral house is the lack of adequate shower rooms, toilet and water supply. I don't know if the resort's management has been exerting efforts to resolve this problem. The lack of continuous water supply caused us some unnecessary stresses. When I woke up in the middle of the night, I have a feeling that they intentionally turned off the water supply. There was no working faucet even in the comfort rooms of the lobby. I was already willing to use and share my own drinking water with my friends. My agitation further intensified because even the timba (water pail) and tabo (dipper) were gone out of nowhere. I can't believe that someone was so smart and talented to annoy us. Though the next day, we quite discovered who inconsiderately hid these bathroom necessities. Clue: It's not any of the resort's employees. (Hi C. and W! You two know what I mean.)
In the morning, taking a bath also became a burden because of the weak flow of water. In order to address this problem, I made a little sacrifice by taking a bath before I sleep. Unfortunately, my body is not used with this practice. This explains the colds and fever I have to endure as I'm typing this post.
On the last day of our retreat, our Chaplain informed us on how we ended at Casa Corazon. The resort's owner, being an alumni of our school, accepted what our school's budget can afford. Thank you Sir! May your good heart be continuously blessed. At some point, this prevented me from complaining. However, I believe that we are still customers. In addition, I believe in the advertising power of "word-of-mouth." Every great service rendered is like news that possess its own wings to reach everyone.
Another major concern during our stay was the quantity of food served to us. I know I shouldn't complain. One of my colleagues talked with one of the food servers and we were surprised to discover that the entire caterer was from Manila. They were just outsourced by Casa Corazon to feed us. This may not be Casa Corazon's direct fault but the caterer has a lot to improve. The servings, the cleanliness of the utensils and the taste of some dishes can still be made better.
Moving away from the ancestral house, here are other beautiful places from Casa Corazon
The swimming pool area
The small houses you can see are the family rooms I'm referring..
Splendid view of lush greeneries and the Batangas' shores
Fore more information about Casa Corazon, visit their website and Facebook account.
Travel Diaries : Discovered a Heart in Batangas
Travel Diaries : Discovered a Heart in Batangas
No, this is not a post for Valentine's Day. Haha
Corazon means heart in Spanish. Am I right? I discovered a place in Batangas called Casa Corazon. Hence, this explains the title.
We have been having our annual spiritual retreat in Caleruega for three consecutive years. Everyone at the workplace loved it there. This year, we were surprised with a major adjustment. We will not be seeing Caleruega in 2013. We were informed that we will be housed for three days at Casa Corazon in Lemery Batangas. It was my first time to hear the place. My instant help companion, Google! I searched for blog posts, reviews and prayed that the place maintains a website. I found a few reviews and pictures of Casa Corazon. One thing however surprised me, it was a resort. They have swimming pools and some recreation facilities. In my mind, the place may not be suitable for a spiritual retreat.
We left Manila last Wednesday and as always, I love the long drive away from the city. Since we were heading to Batangas, we passed by Tagaytay. The view of the Taal Lake, pineapple fields, colder temperature, the lush mountains and the clear roads never fail to refresh me.
We reached Casa Corazon in less than 2 hours. We were given our room assignments and a chance to explore the place. Let me tour you to Casa Corazon through pictures.
Let's move upstairs! I love the stained glass window that illuminates the staircase. Though some of my friends would tell me that it looks like a piece from an old church. The classic chandelier also contributes to the place's antique atmosphere.
One of our colleagues was assigned to this room. I don't know what happened but come night time, we discovered that they transferred to another room. My friend who has this talent of seeing extraordinary beings also said something that frightened us more. Our group of 6 colleagues slept in another room, which I failed to take photos. Fail!What I instead have in my camera is a compilation of other interesting pieces.
The blue pair of Bally is to die for! It may not be clear from the photo but I was treated to a feast of Nine West, Yves Saint Laurent and more signature brands.
Casa Corazon's ancestral house is a priceless treasure. However, allow me to make some comments about the place. I don't know if it's true, but I heard from a colleague that the resort's management doesn't really accommodate guests in the ancestral house. So I guess we were privileged to be given a three-day stay. I hope the resort's management will not negatively take my feedback. As a guest, I believe that they should have housed us in their regular family rooms. More than the eerie and creepy atmosphere that haunted us for days, the ancestral home will be better off if it remains to be preserved.
Another concern about the ancestral house is the lack of adequate shower rooms, toilet and water supply. I don't know if the resort's management has been exerting efforts to resolve this problem. The lack of continuous water supply caused us some unnecessary stresses. When I woke up in the middle of the night, I have a feeling that they intentionally turned off the water supply. There was no working faucet even in the comfort rooms of the lobby. I was already willing to use and share my own drinking water with my friends. My agitation further intensified because even the timba (water pail) and tabo (dipper) were gone out of nowhere. I can't believe that someone was so smart and talented to annoy us. Though the next day, we quite discovered who inconsiderately hid these bathroom necessities. Clue: It's not any of the resort's employees. (Hi C. and W! You two know what I mean.)
In the morning, taking a bath also became a burden because of the weak flow of water. In order to address this problem, I made a little sacrifice by taking a bath before I sleep. Unfortunately, my body is not used with this practice. This explains the colds and fever I have to endure as I'm typing this post.
On the last day of our retreat, our Chaplain informed us on how we ended at Casa Corazon. The resort's owner, being an alumni of our school, accepted what our school's budget can afford. Thank you Sir! May your good heart be continuously blessed. At some point, this prevented me from complaining. However, I believe that we are still customers. In addition, I believe in the advertising power of "word-of-mouth." Every great service rendered is like news that possess its own wings to reach everyone.
Another major concern during our stay was the quantity of food served to us. I know I shouldn't complain. One of my colleagues talked with one of the food servers and we were surprised to discover that the entire caterer was from Manila. They were just outsourced by Casa Corazon to feed us. This may not be Casa Corazon's direct fault but the caterer has a lot to improve. The servings, the cleanliness of the utensils and the taste of some dishes can still be made better.
My blog post for Casa Corazon is not yet done. The place is so abundant to be squeezed in one post. Expect more pictures and experiences on my next posts.
Fore more information about Casa Corazon, visit their website and Facebook account.
Corazon means heart in Spanish. Am I right? I discovered a place in Batangas called Casa Corazon. Hence, this explains the title.
We have been having our annual spiritual retreat in Caleruega for three consecutive years. Everyone at the workplace loved it there. This year, we were surprised with a major adjustment. We will not be seeing Caleruega in 2013. We were informed that we will be housed for three days at Casa Corazon in Lemery Batangas. It was my first time to hear the place. My instant help companion, Google! I searched for blog posts, reviews and prayed that the place maintains a website. I found a few reviews and pictures of Casa Corazon. One thing however surprised me, it was a resort. They have swimming pools and some recreation facilities. In my mind, the place may not be suitable for a spiritual retreat.
We left Manila last Wednesday and as always, I love the long drive away from the city. Since we were heading to Batangas, we passed by Tagaytay. The view of the Taal Lake, pineapple fields, colder temperature, the lush mountains and the clear roads never fail to refresh me.
We reached Casa Corazon in less than 2 hours. We were given our room assignments and a chance to explore the place. Let me tour you to Casa Corazon through pictures.
This is the reception area and office of Casa Corazon. It's a residential site that was turned to a museum and office.
The house looks modern from the outside. Wait until I give you a virtual tour of the owner's place.
Inside the house are antique wooden pieces and a lot of vintage mirrors. The house literally has mirrors everywhere.
Let's move upstairs! I love the stained glass window that illuminates the staircase. Though some of my friends would tell me that it looks like a piece from an old church. The classic chandelier also contributes to the place's antique atmosphere.
A living room welcomed us in the house's second floor.
Can you see the picture frames from the left?
I would like to believe that they are the ancestors of the resort's owner. We were frightened by the vintage photos but during our free hours, we spent most of our time in the living room. Wifi signal is strong in this area (haha) so never mind the creepy feel.
Here are more interesting pieces in the living room.
A mah jong table also rests in the living room. Look at the intricate carving details of each chair.
Another detail to love! The living room's center table is supported by a heavy metal carving.
Classic hardbound law books which I believe belongs to the family's patriarch.
Framed certificates of stock ownership as early as 1930s, these papers exist way before World War II.
I checked one of the rooms and I was surprised with the classic wooden canopy bed
One of our colleagues was assigned to this room. I don't know what happened but come night time, we discovered that they transferred to another room. My friend who has this talent of seeing extraordinary beings also said something that frightened us more. Our group of 6 colleagues slept in another room, which I failed to take photos. Fail!What I instead have in my camera is a compilation of other interesting pieces.
Imeldific!!!
Some pieces that caught my attention
Casa Corazon's ancestral house is a priceless treasure. However, allow me to make some comments about the place. I don't know if it's true, but I heard from a colleague that the resort's management doesn't really accommodate guests in the ancestral house. So I guess we were privileged to be given a three-day stay. I hope the resort's management will not negatively take my feedback. As a guest, I believe that they should have housed us in their regular family rooms. More than the eerie and creepy atmosphere that haunted us for days, the ancestral home will be better off if it remains to be preserved.
Another concern about the ancestral house is the lack of adequate shower rooms, toilet and water supply. I don't know if the resort's management has been exerting efforts to resolve this problem. The lack of continuous water supply caused us some unnecessary stresses. When I woke up in the middle of the night, I have a feeling that they intentionally turned off the water supply. There was no working faucet even in the comfort rooms of the lobby. I was already willing to use and share my own drinking water with my friends. My agitation further intensified because even the timba (water pail) and tabo (dipper) were gone out of nowhere. I can't believe that someone was so smart and talented to annoy us. Though the next day, we quite discovered who inconsiderately hid these bathroom necessities. Clue: It's not any of the resort's employees. (Hi C. and W! You two know what I mean.)
In the morning, taking a bath also became a burden because of the weak flow of water. In order to address this problem, I made a little sacrifice by taking a bath before I sleep. Unfortunately, my body is not used with this practice. This explains the colds and fever I have to endure as I'm typing this post.
On the last day of our retreat, our Chaplain informed us on how we ended at Casa Corazon. The resort's owner, being an alumni of our school, accepted what our school's budget can afford. Thank you Sir! May your good heart be continuously blessed. At some point, this prevented me from complaining. However, I believe that we are still customers. In addition, I believe in the advertising power of "word-of-mouth." Every great service rendered is like news that possess its own wings to reach everyone.
Another major concern during our stay was the quantity of food served to us. I know I shouldn't complain. One of my colleagues talked with one of the food servers and we were surprised to discover that the entire caterer was from Manila. They were just outsourced by Casa Corazon to feed us. This may not be Casa Corazon's direct fault but the caterer has a lot to improve. The servings, the cleanliness of the utensils and the taste of some dishes can still be made better.
Moving away from the ancestral house, here are other beautiful places from Casa Corazon
The swimming pool area
The small houses you can see are the family rooms I'm referring..
Splendid view of lush greeneries and the Batangas' shores
Fore more information about Casa Corazon, visit their website and Facebook account.
I'm back from my three-day spiritual retreat. This is one of the few and rare benefits that my colleagues and I experience every year. We don't have team building activities.We don't have those expensive trips. We are instead given the blessing of a spiritual retreat.
I have mentioned in a previous post that we used to be housed in the beautiful Caleruega. For this year, we were brought to another venue. We were accommodated at Casa Corazon in Lemery Batangas. I'll blog about the entire place in my next posts. For now, allow me to share the wonderful reminders I encountered from our retreat master.
On the way to Casa Corazon, we were entertained by a local movie during the trip. Everyone was laughing because the movie shown inside the bus carries a not-so-suitable theme for a retreat.
No one anticipated that this was a sign of our retreat's main theme. In the beginning of our sessions, our retreat master asked us if we really like the people we see in the workplace everyday. It made everyone laugh again. A reality that I guess, we have learned to get used to. The real message that our retreat master wanted to tell us is exemplified in another movie.
Pi can end up with another companion in the lifeboat. Of all creatures, why with a frightening Bengali tiger?
I have mentioned in a previous post that we used to be housed in the beautiful Caleruega. For this year, we were brought to another venue. We were accommodated at Casa Corazon in Lemery Batangas. I'll blog about the entire place in my next posts. For now, allow me to share the wonderful reminders I encountered from our retreat master.
On the way to Casa Corazon, we were entertained by a local movie during the trip. Everyone was laughing because the movie shown inside the bus carries a not-so-suitable theme for a retreat.
 |
| Source |
In the early part of the movie, this message was repeatedly emphasized
 |
| Just because you like it, it doesn't mean that you can have it |
 |
| Source |
Hence, life's clear message to us
And as for my continuous growing up issues, I was reminded that
And sometimes, I have to remind myself that all I really need is to
Wishing everyone a Beautiful Sunday!
Beautiful Sunday # 42 - Of movies and some reminders
Beautiful Sunday # 42 - Of movies and some reminders
I'm back from my three-day spiritual retreat. This is one of the few and rare benefits that my colleagues and I experience every year. We don't have team building activities.We don't have those expensive trips. We are instead given the blessing of a spiritual retreat.
I have mentioned in a previous post that we used to be housed in the beautiful Caleruega. For this year, we were brought to another venue. We were accommodated at Casa Corazon in Lemery Batangas. I'll blog about the entire place in my next posts. For now, allow me to share the wonderful reminders I encountered from our retreat master.
On the way to Casa Corazon, we were entertained by a local movie during the trip. Everyone was laughing because the movie shown inside the bus carries a not-so-suitable theme for a retreat.
No one anticipated that this was a sign of our retreat's main theme. In the beginning of our sessions, our retreat master asked us if we really like the people we see in the workplace everyday. It made everyone laugh again. A reality that I guess, we have learned to get used to. The real message that our retreat master wanted to tell us is exemplified in another movie.
Pi can end up with another companion in the lifeboat. Of all creatures, why with a frightening Bengali tiger?
I have mentioned in a previous post that we used to be housed in the beautiful Caleruega. For this year, we were brought to another venue. We were accommodated at Casa Corazon in Lemery Batangas. I'll blog about the entire place in my next posts. For now, allow me to share the wonderful reminders I encountered from our retreat master.
On the way to Casa Corazon, we were entertained by a local movie during the trip. Everyone was laughing because the movie shown inside the bus carries a not-so-suitable theme for a retreat.
|
| Source |
In the early part of the movie, this message was repeatedly emphasized
|
| Just because you like it, it doesn't mean that you can have it |
|
| Source |
Hence, life's clear message to us
And as for my continuous growing up issues, I was reminded that
And sometimes, I have to remind myself that all I really need is to
Wishing everyone a Beautiful Sunday!
After so many weeks, I finally finished my first long read for 2013. As promised, I'm blogging my own review of Markus Zusak's The Book Thief.
Before I share my own sentiments, allow me to relate how I discovered this award winning title. Before New Year's eve, one of my students highly recommended this book. The exact words she told me was, this is the book that has a heart. Before heading to the bookstore, I even read some reviews on Goodreads. I was overwhelmed by the positive reviews and its average rating of 4 out of 5 stars. I have high expectations over the book. Added to it the fact that it became a recipient of the Michael Printz's Honor Book.
After holding on to more than 500 pages of the book, I would like to say that ..... Let me put it this way... The book is like a beautiful dress that doesn't fit my body's structure. It's like everyone's delicious dish that was ironically unappreciated by my weird taste buds. Allow me to explain my contradicting thoughts about the book.
The Book Thief related the life of Liesl Meminger who was fostered by an equally poverty stricken German couple. Liesl is the Book Thief. The 13-year old girl however don't steal books for greed. She was driven by her hunger to learn and later, pursuing a passion for writing. Despite having uneducated parents, Liesl's father taught her how to read. Liesl discovered and learned the priceless happiness of reading from her Father and not from school that despised and discriminated her. In her new family, Liesl met her bestfriend, partner in crime and lover, Rudy. Much of the story narrated Liesl and Rudy's unfortunate fate of growing up during the harsh period of war. Aside from Rudy, another significant character is Max. He is a Jew. While Liesl's family is already overburdened with poverty and the threats of war, they whole-heartedly treated Max as family.
The Book Thief was well-written. I can feel that every detail of the book was well-researched as well. One thing that prevents me from fully appreciating this masterpiece, I wasn't totally moved by the story line. In my own biased opinion, the book possessed a typical story in the period of war. Liesl's story could have been the story of kids who survived the war. However, the way the story was narrated was so intense and magnificent. It compensated in this aspect. Every chapter aimed to draw a specific emotion to the reader. But plot and story wise, I can give the book an average rating.
Perhaps, my expectations was just so high. Setting aside my reluctance, here are some reasons that still made me appreciate the book.
Zusak emphasized the power of love and family. Zusak defined family more than the context of having a biological lineage. Each one of us is capable to love and treat a stranger as a family. Zusak also disproves The Full Cup Theory. For Liesl's family, poverty is not a hindrance to generosity.
The real and deep definition was friendship was also highlighted in the entire book. Rudy and Liesl who shared each other's dreams. There is also Max that Liesl loved so dearly, despite the threats he has been causing to her entire family.
I also appreciate Zusak's unique style of using Death as the story's narrator. More importantly, I value Zusak's idea of defining the image of war in the eyes of an innocent kid.
If I would give my final rating, I'll give The Book Thief 3.5 out of 5 stars. It's just unfortunate that it was a great read that wasn't for me.
Reviewed! The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Reviewed! The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
After so many weeks, I finally finished my first long read for 2013. As promised, I'm blogging my own review of Markus Zusak's The Book Thief.
Before I share my own sentiments, allow me to relate how I discovered this award winning title. Before New Year's eve, one of my students highly recommended this book. The exact words she told me was, this is the book that has a heart. Before heading to the bookstore, I even read some reviews on Goodreads. I was overwhelmed by the positive reviews and its average rating of 4 out of 5 stars. I have high expectations over the book. Added to it the fact that it became a recipient of the Michael Printz's Honor Book.
After holding on to more than 500 pages of the book, I would like to say that ..... Let me put it this way... The book is like a beautiful dress that doesn't fit my body's structure. It's like everyone's delicious dish that was ironically unappreciated by my weird taste buds. Allow me to explain my contradicting thoughts about the book.
The Book Thief related the life of Liesl Meminger who was fostered by an equally poverty stricken German couple. Liesl is the Book Thief. The 13-year old girl however don't steal books for greed. She was driven by her hunger to learn and later, pursuing a passion for writing. Despite having uneducated parents, Liesl's father taught her how to read. Liesl discovered and learned the priceless happiness of reading from her Father and not from school that despised and discriminated her. In her new family, Liesl met her bestfriend, partner in crime and lover, Rudy. Much of the story narrated Liesl and Rudy's unfortunate fate of growing up during the harsh period of war. Aside from Rudy, another significant character is Max. He is a Jew. While Liesl's family is already overburdened with poverty and the threats of war, they whole-heartedly treated Max as family.
The Book Thief was well-written. I can feel that every detail of the book was well-researched as well. One thing that prevents me from fully appreciating this masterpiece, I wasn't totally moved by the story line. In my own biased opinion, the book possessed a typical story in the period of war. Liesl's story could have been the story of kids who survived the war. However, the way the story was narrated was so intense and magnificent. It compensated in this aspect. Every chapter aimed to draw a specific emotion to the reader. But plot and story wise, I can give the book an average rating.
Perhaps, my expectations was just so high. Setting aside my reluctance, here are some reasons that still made me appreciate the book.
Zusak emphasized the power of love and family. Zusak defined family more than the context of having a biological lineage. Each one of us is capable to love and treat a stranger as a family. Zusak also disproves The Full Cup Theory. For Liesl's family, poverty is not a hindrance to generosity.
The real and deep definition was friendship was also highlighted in the entire book. Rudy and Liesl who shared each other's dreams. There is also Max that Liesl loved so dearly, despite the threats he has been causing to her entire family.
I also appreciate Zusak's unique style of using Death as the story's narrator. More importantly, I value Zusak's idea of defining the image of war in the eyes of an innocent kid.
If I would give my final rating, I'll give The Book Thief 3.5 out of 5 stars. It's just unfortunate that it was a great read that wasn't for me.
When my Jansport is taken out from its dust bag, it means one thing...
The next three days for me would mean off from work. I'll be joining my colleages for our annual spiritual retreat. Unfortunately, it will no longer be held in Caleruega. We will be housed in a new venue that will hopefully give us that much needed time to forget work and life in the city.
I will blog about the entire experience soon.
Bye for now!
I'm traveling.
The next three days for me would mean off from work. I'll be joining my colleages for our annual spiritual retreat. Unfortunately, it will no longer be held in Caleruega. We will be housed in a new venue that will hopefully give us that much needed time to forget work and life in the city.
I will blog about the entire experience soon.
Bye for now!
Bye for now!
Bye for now!
When my Jansport is taken out from its dust bag, it means one thing...
The next three days for me would mean off from work. I'll be joining my colleages for our annual spiritual retreat. Unfortunately, it will no longer be held in Caleruega. We will be housed in a new venue that will hopefully give us that much needed time to forget work and life in the city.
I will blog about the entire experience soon.
Bye for now!
I'm traveling.
The next three days for me would mean off from work. I'll be joining my colleages for our annual spiritual retreat. Unfortunately, it will no longer be held in Caleruega. We will be housed in a new venue that will hopefully give us that much needed time to forget work and life in the city.
I will blog about the entire experience soon.
Bye for now!
My first Beautiful Sunday post for the shortest month of the year!
Despite having shorter days, the level of stress and tiredness for this month will never be shorter. Seven groups of research writing kids, two classes, office work and the grown up responsibilities. This is life! I'm not complaining though. I know, these will soon turn to accomplishments and blessings. I'd like to set aside the serious side of my life and focus on the few beautiful things that made my week. As always, here's my Beautiful Sunday list.
Despite having shorter days, the level of stress and tiredness for this month will never be shorter. Seven groups of research writing kids, two classes, office work and the grown up responsibilities. This is life! I'm not complaining though. I know, these will soon turn to accomplishments and blessings. I'd like to set aside the serious side of my life and focus on the few beautiful things that made my week. As always, here's my Beautiful Sunday list.
One
Watsons became my happy place over the past days. Stress shopping these days doesn't mean having a new pair of shoes. Retail therapy is treating myself with some beauty products. Very unlikely of me!
What prompted me to shop for these beauty goodies? First, my newest freelance client paid me. Hooray! Instead of fattening my savings account, I headed to Watsons. And true to its claim, the best way to feel great? Look good first! Second, I noticed some fine lines growing in my forehead. Panic alarm mode on! Hence, these explain the recent shopaholic trip to Watsons.
Two
And the beauty shopping continues...
I used to purchase Human Nature products from a dealer. In my recent trip to the supermarket, I saw a rack of Human Nature products. Happiness! Best about everything, they are cheaper in the supermarket. Convenience and cheaper prices create a fulfilled shopper.
I love Human Nature products, though they are a bit expensive than the famous local brands. But as compared to your Body Shop, Kerastase, and Loreal products, this Filipino organic brand is way cheaper. Of the many shampoos and conditioners I have tried, this is one of the few brands that lives and works to its claim. No false and exaggerated advertising campaigns. Human Nature's marketing secret is represented by the effectiveness of its entire product line.
Three
And because there's additional money in the bag, I treated myself to a new book. Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children is up to my reading list and soon, to my book reviews.
Have you noticed my yellow desk calendar? I intentionally included it to reiterate my happiness to Sun Life Financial. I met my finance manager yesterday and I was again surprised with the earnings of my hard earned mutual fund investment.
Four
In the middle of the week, I ended up writing these realizations
and
Too serious? Let me end this post with this treat
Five
Heavenly Hell of Crispiness and Oiliness
LOL
Wishing everyone a Beautiful Sunday!
Beautiful Sunday # 41 - Feeling great!
Beautiful Sunday # 41 - Feeling great!
My first Beautiful Sunday post for the shortest month of the year!
Despite having shorter days, the level of stress and tiredness for this month will never be shorter. Seven groups of research writing kids, two classes, office work and the grown up responsibilities. This is life! I'm not complaining though. I know, these will soon turn to accomplishments and blessings. I'd like to set aside the serious side of my life and focus on the few beautiful things that made my week. As always, here's my Beautiful Sunday list.
Despite having shorter days, the level of stress and tiredness for this month will never be shorter. Seven groups of research writing kids, two classes, office work and the grown up responsibilities. This is life! I'm not complaining though. I know, these will soon turn to accomplishments and blessings. I'd like to set aside the serious side of my life and focus on the few beautiful things that made my week. As always, here's my Beautiful Sunday list.
One
Watsons became my happy place over the past days. Stress shopping these days doesn't mean having a new pair of shoes. Retail therapy is treating myself with some beauty products. Very unlikely of me!
What prompted me to shop for these beauty goodies? First, my newest freelance client paid me. Hooray! Instead of fattening my savings account, I headed to Watsons. And true to its claim, the best way to feel great? Look good first! Second, I noticed some fine lines growing in my forehead. Panic alarm mode on! Hence, these explain the recent shopaholic trip to Watsons.
Two
And the beauty shopping continues...
I used to purchase Human Nature products from a dealer. In my recent trip to the supermarket, I saw a rack of Human Nature products. Happiness! Best about everything, they are cheaper in the supermarket. Convenience and cheaper prices create a fulfilled shopper.
I love Human Nature products, though they are a bit expensive than the famous local brands. But as compared to your Body Shop, Kerastase, and Loreal products, this Filipino organic brand is way cheaper. Of the many shampoos and conditioners I have tried, this is one of the few brands that lives and works to its claim. No false and exaggerated advertising campaigns. Human Nature's marketing secret is represented by the effectiveness of its entire product line.
Three
And because there's additional money in the bag, I treated myself to a new book. Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children is up to my reading list and soon, to my book reviews.
Have you noticed my yellow desk calendar? I intentionally included it to reiterate my happiness to Sun Life Financial. I met my finance manager yesterday and I was again surprised with the earnings of my hard earned mutual fund investment.
Four
In the middle of the week, I ended up writing these realizations
and
Too serious? Let me end this post with this treat
Five
Heavenly Hell of Crispiness and Oiliness
LOL
Wishing everyone a Beautiful Sunday!
The first month of 2013 is about to end as I'm writing this post. So much has happened in my first month and a blog post will never be enough for everything. Surprises, frustrations, happiness and discoveries are the many themes that can depict my January.
I'm typing this post feeling very tired. As soon as I got home, I told myself that I will immediately hit the bed. No TV, internet and books for now. My body that is getting heavier over the past days is demanding for rest and more sleeping hours. But look what I'm doing now.
Before I finally call it a day, I'm sharing this video I discovered from another blogger.
The short film reminded me why I always love trains and paper planes. ;)
I'm typing this post feeling very tired. As soon as I got home, I told myself that I will immediately hit the bed. No TV, internet and books for now. My body that is getting heavier over the past days is demanding for rest and more sleeping hours. But look what I'm doing now.
Before I finally call it a day, I'm sharing this video I discovered from another blogger.
The short film reminded me why I always love trains and paper planes. ;)
Farewell to January
Farewell to January
The first month of 2013 is about to end as I'm writing this post. So much has happened in my first month and a blog post will never be enough for everything. Surprises, frustrations, happiness and discoveries are the many themes that can depict my January.
I'm typing this post feeling very tired. As soon as I got home, I told myself that I will immediately hit the bed. No TV, internet and books for now. My body that is getting heavier over the past days is demanding for rest and more sleeping hours. But look what I'm doing now.
Before I finally call it a day, I'm sharing this video I discovered from another blogger.
The short film reminded me why I always love trains and paper planes. ;)
I'm typing this post feeling very tired. As soon as I got home, I told myself that I will immediately hit the bed. No TV, internet and books for now. My body that is getting heavier over the past days is demanding for rest and more sleeping hours. But look what I'm doing now.
Before I finally call it a day, I'm sharing this video I discovered from another blogger.
The short film reminded me why I always love trains and paper planes. ;)
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