Hi I'm Lin, a 21 year old typical girl in the Philippines. I am no special, nor  I claim that I am interesting, in short I am very ordinary. But what it is like to have a mediocre life just like mine? Since you are reading this post, take your time reading a glimpse of my life. So here is my story.

         I woke up every morning at 6 am and since I am a procaffinator, I always start my day with a cup of coffee. After that I will feed the dogs and clean the house. I am currently unemployed now since I am preparing for the upcoming LET. This is my routine for my everyday life aside from my morning rituals like taking a bath, applying different products to make my skin better and greeting my boyfriend a good morning :)

         There are late night thoughts where I ask my self, " Am I only up here? " But there is a tiny little voice inside my head saying " No, I don't want to settle." That is why I always find a way to improve myself. Everyday I make my self busy and my time worthy. I try to unravel everything by myself. I learn how to blog and play the piano. This is how a day in my life is.

       Its front beauty camera is build up with 1/3.1-inch image sensor and an F/2.0 aperture which allows more light to enter the camera resulting into a more natural-looking selfies. You can take pictures on low light too!

           Hi Lovelins! Last year I took my civil service examination for the first time on October 2016 and luckily I have passed. This is also known as Career Service Examination. Many of Filipinos take this examination in order for them to be regularized in the Government because of the benefits they can gain. So after taking this exam, I want to share these tips that help me passed through. The passing rate is 80% of the exam and I got an average of 83.5 with self reviewing.

           This year's schedule will be on  March 12, 2017. Application Period runs from November 14, 2016 to January 13, 2017. Apply early if possible because they may not accept any applicants if they reach the quota even if it is not the deadline yet.  You can check out the list of qualifications requirements and area of coverage here.

          It is composed of two categories, the Professional and Subprofessional Level. The Professional Level is composed of 170 items while Subpro is 165 items. I recommend you to choose the Professional level because the difference is only 5 items :) 

          After you passed the civil service, you can now apply to any government office or even PNP and BFP. But if you already have any license or if you are a latin honor bearer, you are already eligible to take the examination.

So here are the tips I am sharing to you :)

Before the Exam

1. Invest. Okay, so you want to pass the civil service so bad, but in order to do that you need to invest. Invest what? Money, time and effort. Don't regret buying books or even enrolling in a review center. And of course this will save you from a lot of stress and sadness if you fail :) I bought a reviewer on National bookstore for 315 pesos. For me, it is still better to have a hard copy than studying in a pdf. Choose a reviewer that have an explanation in it rather than questions and answers only. What you sow is what you reap.

2. Study. If you really want to pass the exam, you need to study. This is your key to success. What you need is to know the concept and the principles, not the correct answer to your reviewer. Most of the questions in the reviewers don't show up that is why you need to know how to come up with the correct answer. The questions are not so hard to answer but it is very tricky.  Study at least 30 minutes to 1 hour a day. Discipline is a must.

3. Set your Goals. You should know why you are studying or why do you need to pass the exam. This will give you a mind set that you need to study because you want to achieve something. This will be a great motivation for your self. It will also avoid you from cramming and procrastinating.

4. Know your weaknesses. I admit, I am weak when it comes to Math, that is why I am surprised that it ranks the 2nd to the highest in all areas :3 Focus on the area in which you think will be the reason to fail you. Practice solving and answering. Reinforce your knowledge and skills in these areas. This will give you a greater chance to pass the exam.

During the Exam

1. Come Early. The examination will start on time so if you come late, the proctors will not to let you take the exam anymore. All of your investments will just go to waste if that happens. Do your morning rituals and eat a heavy breakfast because you will not have any breaks.

2. Bring ballpen. Last year's examination used ballpen instead of pencil. Bring with you a spare one to avoid trouble if the other one fails. Be sure on your answers because mistake are only allowed once. 

3. Go to the bathroom before your exam starts. Your time is limited that is why avoid wasting doing stuffs at the bathroom. It is also distracting if you need to go to the bathroom but you can't.

4. Pray. One of the best tip I can share you. Before taking the exam close your eyes for a while and send your prayers unto Him. It is good to know that Someone is guiding you along the way. Always remember that prayer works! 

5. Avoid spending time on hard questions. Remember, your time is limited and if you have come across a hard number, don't waste too much time on it, you can always come back to it after answering the other items.

6. Draw illustrations. There are certain questions that will need to picture out. To figure it out draw it on the questionnaire to help you know the correct answer.

7. Review your answers. Before submitting, have a quick review of your answers and if you didn't miss any item.

After the Exam

1. Compose yourself. Don't overthink about the exam, just remember that you've done the best of you whether you pass or fail :) don't forget to treat yourself afterwards!

Hope you've enjoyed these tips and Godbless to your upcoming exams :) Let me know if any of these tips help you along the way. Ciao! :)

       

       We depart early at 6 am and arrive at the Arena at 9 am.  The weather is cold and a bit of rainy, but still manageable. It is early so we slept and talked until the sun shines. There are lots of things you can do. There are rides for children, bazaars and food stalls. There is a program called "Welcome Kapatid Ko", which is intended for non members to show them that they are always welcome in the Church of Christ. It was held in the Philippine Sports Stadium :)

       The program flow have parlor games, special numbers and raffles! The prizes were only simple, example is a flat screen T.V. ( just kidding XD) gas stove, electric fans and more. After that we eat then and eat again :3. Yes bare with us, it's celebrating new year, it is a cheat day haha. And we came back again at night for the main program.

      Many performed that night, it includes INC celebrities and bands, Kim Molina, Juan dela Cruz band, Meg Imperial, Imelda Papin, Jon Lucas, Andrew E. and my instant favorite, the 70's Superband which captures the hearts and souls of the audience at the very moment. They bring us back to time. Ah what a memory! I just love how they perform and owns the stage. It is hosted again by Sam YG and Bella Padilla who have not given a single dull moment. That night, more raffle prizes were given and two lucky winners drive home a brand new Wigo :)

      The moment that we have waited arrived, at the last minutes of the 2016, they were singing Auld Lang Syne. A big button was pressed by Brother Jun Santos and other Ministers to set the fireworks on fire. The fireworks were so beautiful and it feels so surreal seeing it that close. That night is cold but the happiness that we felt that very instant warms our hearts :) which is enough to make our 2017 exciting and thrilling! Ciao! :)

How did you welcome your 2017?  Let me know your stories :)

     

      

          I was in my third year college, when I transferred school. I stayed in a dorm full of wonderful ladies. The year was fine, I get along with them so well. But again, maybe it just can't be helped, sometimes you will come across to a rough road. So back to my story, I was working on my thesis and I badly needed a laptop and the essential internet. Since my roommate have both of it I borrowed it for a while. I also don't have flat iron back then, I know I don't have a lot of thing I really need but I can't do anything but still, to borrow. 

        I used to borrow things I need because I thought it was fine since I don't usually borrow it, I just borrow it when I need it. I also remember texting my roommate early in the morning because she was still asleep, and I used her iron to flattened my uniform because my class is seven in the morning. Then one night she opened up to all of us. She talk to us generally but I know that she was pertaining to me. She said that it was unfair for her because it was her things that we used and her parents were paying for it while the others just borrow it. She also said that it was not right to used something asking permission in a text because she was still asleep and lastly she said that she can't use her things because others were using it. 

        After that meeting one of my roommates talk to me laughing and saying that it was all for me. Of course I know that, I'm hurt but I know that she has the right to feel that way. I remained the same to her, I talk to my roommate casually and the way we used to. I don't want her to feel that there's a gap between us. Even if I needed things I borrow it from other people and not to her anymore. I just don't want to feel that feeling again. That feeling that you pitied yourself because you don't have the things you need and end up borrowing. Maybe she felt I was abusive. That's what I think. 

       It was two years ago, so I still have that trauma of borrowing things. I was now in our province and I'm taking educational units. I am currently unemployed so I don't have the money to buy a new pair of shoes or a back pack. And so again that moment was repeated, that feeling I don't want to feel again. I was about to wear my sister's shoes because I will go to school when my mother interrupted me and ask me why do I keep on borrowing my sister's things. I end up not using it. 

      I choose to borrow rather than to ask them money for me to buy myself a new one because I don't want to cause them trouble. It's not that I always want to use things that were not mine, who would love borrowing anyway? But there will always be a moment that you will need to borrow something right? There are things that other people don't understand. They just keep on jumping into conclusions and judging you the way they see things. If it's unfair to them, don't they think I felt the same way. Completely hilarious.

     I know that I have nothing for now, but I know it will not be forever. The thing is, I wont let those events in my life to change who I am. I just don't want to pity myself for having nothing. That feeling sucks. I feel like the world is run by money or material things that if you don't have that you are a nobody, that you are worthless.

     I am just glad that I stumble upon into making a blog site. Because it serves as my diary, my diversion, my own little world where I can be the master and express my side here and my resentments. I just hope to see a rainbow soon :)

        I still clearly remember that day, it was in November 2011, at about 6 am in the morning. I knocked at the door to tell my mom the bad news. There was no answer, I knew that she already knew what happened and she's there at the other side of the door, silently weeping and mourning. She knew that Cheenie was already dead. Cheenie is our pet, a black dachshund who has been my mother's beloved dog. After an hour of gaining her strength, my mom went out of their bedroom, together with her favorite pink towel. She went outside where Cheenie's body lay and gently wrapped its lifeless body. We broke into tears. We buried her little body in our backyard.

      Time had passed and they came one by one. New dogs entered our home. First was Pandoy, a black and white Aspin, he is the smartest of them all. He is the one who guarded the house and he instantly barks whenever he hears something.


     Next is Beagle, a crossbreed of pug and beagle. Beagle on the other hand is the protector, he is so thoughtful, he is the peace maker of our dogs. He is the sleepyhead baby.


     Then came Tommy, our mini schnauzer, he is the sweetest of them all, he is always there tailing me wherever I go. He always woke me up with his morning kisses.


      And lastly Negra the pug, the youngest of them all, and since she is still a puppy, she is the destroyer, the litterer. (Don't blame me for the names, it was my mom's choice XD)

      They are our dogs. For the past years of their existence, they put colors to my life and make me change the way I see friendship. These dogs had been my companion. They always make me laugh, warm me with their bodies when it's cold, dissolves my stress away. They are my diversion. At hard times when I feel like I am lost, I talk to them, they are just there listening as I cried down, they never judge nor leave me. They never complain. They offer their little bodies to be hug giving the comfort I need. They might be a major headache but reminiscing those moments now makes me laugh. Even though they torn my precious project, divided my charger into two, send my undies in the front yard, stole our viand, chomp my favorite slippers and shoes, make my stuffed toy go blind and many more, despite of the mess they may bring to our house, I love them :)

      In this world, I am just a raindrop in these flood of people. I am just an ordinary girl, a nobody. But behind those big brown eyes of them, I am a somebody, I am someone special because in their eyes we mean the world to them. The four corners of our house is not only their playground, but to them it is their paradise. They gave me a reason to come home early because I know they are eagerly waiting for my return, that they are so excited to see me and play with me. 

       " The only permanent in this world is change" A saying that is always applied in my life. I am just a simple girl living a simple life.When I was a child I always dreamed of a better life, well that's the best part of being a kid. You don't really know the meaning of the word "problem". But things went out differently as I grow up. I realized that it's not the life I was expecting, That this world is full of struggles and competition. It is hard how you set up your figure in this society we live. How to be respected by other people. And how you will shine differently to this world.

       When I was in college, one of my professor let us watch Mahatma Gandhi's life then my whole point of view has change. Ever since I was a child, you can classify me as one of the weaklings. I don't know how defend my self or exchange spicy words with other people. I am someone who will be left speechless. I just let it inside myself. I put my feelings inside a jar and close it. There was a point in my life that my heart was stoned by all of those hurting words, that no word can wound me anymore for I am already numb. Yes this is the real world we are living. It is just like a moon, there will always be a dark side of it.

     But despite all of it, even now that I am older I still don't know how to fight back. I've realized that revenge will take me nowhere. If I fight back and I saw them hurt, will it make me happy? Does it make me successful? It just don't make sense to me. What I do is ignore all of the bad things they do to me, and still show them kindness and smile to them. When I am angry, I don't let it burst out because I know I might say something very hurtful and can't undo it. Patience is a virtue. I always tell myself that my patience should be a circle, so that it will never end. Love can change people. I know that if I show them some love and kindness, time will come that they will realize what they have done to me and they will remember me not for being bad. I know that there is no permanent in this world that's why I don't want to regret things that I haven't done when I still have the chance and the opportunity. I want to show my love to the people around me, spend some time with them and cherish every moment.
      I am still in the progress of creating a better version of me. People change and so am I. While I am still sojourning in this world, I know I will encounter many adversities and strife. I may be hurt again, be lost or be left by people whom I thought will stay with me. But this is my journey, this is my life. It is in my hand how I will make a rainbow out of it and how I will make it bloom. I will never forget to take with me a lot of patience, smile and love to share. 

   
                I know as time passed by, our preferences may change. The way we look, what we like or what we want, the way we prioritize things. But I always leave a room for improvement. How I make my self a better person. I realize that in order for us to love unconditionally, is not expecting something in return. That it is better to give than to receive or to love than to be loved. It is never too late to make a change, it is better than to be sorry. Do not be afraid to make a mistake in your decision, because it will be your teacher. And lastly, as Mahatma Gandhi said, you must be the change you wish to see in the world.

  




























     "Alarm rings. Wake up. Take a bath. Get ready for work. Stuck in traffic. Work. Eat. Overtime. Stuck in traffic again. Eat. Sleep". Is this your everyday work life? Do you deal with so much hassle and stress? Got screwed by your boss, lots of paper works, heart breaking-tear falling deadlines. What else can you do to endure all of these and enjoy it the way you dream your life when you were a kid? So here are my 11 life changing hacks to make work life much more easier :)

1. Early Riser. Why do elderlies woke up so early? They even wake up earlier than the neighborhoods' rooster. If you keep on hitting the snooze or keep chanting to your self " five more minutes", you can ask them to wake you up. Another technique I use is setting my alarm thrice or more, example is: 4:30, 4:35, 4:40, 4:45. This will definitely wake you up, because it will cut your lovely, amazing dream. If you wake up early, you can have your time to do your morning rituals and time to stare at the table :3

2. Pray. As a christian, we put God as the center of our life so, under  any circumstances, happiness and difficulties, we always entrust it to God. It is a great feeling to know that someone is looking over you, protecting you from all harms and guiding you in your everyday life. So no matter what happens, do not forget to simply close your eyes and utter your little prayers to Him. Always remember, Prayer works!

3. Eat breakfast. Many people are skipping breakfast but they do not know it is the most important meal of the day. Breakfasts starts your metabolism, it helps you control your weight, gives energy and focus. If you don't like eating heavy meals at morning, you can choose to have crackers or cereals, just make sure you have the fuel to start your day!

                                             

4. Magic Mirror exercise. Everyday as we groom and make ourselves beautiful,  we look into a mirror. One way of boosting your confidence is by talking to your self in a mirror. Encourage yourself by saying " I can do this" , " This will be a great and wonderful day". This will bring out a good mood and more relaxed, stressed free you :) Do this every morning to let the good vibes come in.

5. Smile. Do you know that it only takes 17 muscles used when you smile and 43 when you frown? Who do you think is more approachable? Are you on the grumpy side? I'd rather choose the sunny side :) Smiling generates happy spirit and it makes you more younger.  Smiles create friends and warm hearts so let those muscles flex to the sides of your mouth :)

6. Avoid procrastinating. Do you have the habit of delaying or postponing things that you should be doing?Everybody is a victim of procrastination, but when laziness and procrastination hits you hard, "oh no! bye bye deadlines :( be ready to get screwed" To fix the problem, make a time table or checklist to ensure you will not overlook your due dates so you can pass it on time :) You'll definitely get a two thumbs up from your boss. Get ready to be promoted yey!!!

7. Be Organized. Messy room leads to laziness so start cleaning and stacking your things. Arrange your files accordingly to help you save time finding it. Also plan your activities ahead and learn how to prioritize. Do you need to do this first or that? Being organized saves you from a lot of headaches :)

8. Get a good night sleep. It is not new for us that the required hours of sleep is 8 hours. Sleeping is the way for your body to recharge. Having a good night sleep helps you gain more focus when working than a sleepy head. It will also brighten up your mood and more energy for the day.

9. Exercise. Exercise helps you gain stronger and healthier body. Exercise is a form of discipline you imply to yourself. Engage yourself to sports, dancing or any form of activity where  you can stretch those muscle of yours. You can brisk walk in the morning if you don't want those abs forming exercise. A healthy body leads to a healthy mind.

10. Leisure. One great way to enjoy your work life is by taking yourself into a vacation. Learn how to treat yourself. Detoxify yourself from the toxicity of stress by having a rest. You can go out to mall, parlors, or watch movies. Save money you can spend with your loved ones.

11. Take vitamins. You can't always be protected from the danger of the viruses and bacteria. You'll never know when disease will strike you. So in order to protect yourself from those diseases, you shouldn't forget to take your vitamins. Vitamin C helps boosting your immune system, a powerful oxidant and makes your skin even.  For daily maintenance, take 1-2 capsules. For cold symptoms, take 3-4 capsules daily. May be given as is, or dissolved in fruit juices, water, or cold beverages of choice.

With this hacks, you can ensure that life work is much easier;) 

 "You were born an original,  don't die a copy". A statement I read on someone's shirt when I was walking down the street. Then realization hits me. People now a days copy styles from artists they like or trying to fit in for what is mainstream, finding their place for them to be accepted by the society.  It is funny how the society puts a label to beauty. 

       Beauty isn't all about the make ups, those eyebrows on fleek,  those red juicy plumped lips and those long straight hair or glamorous big curls. The true essence of beauty is all about appreciation and acceptance.  In order for you to find that beauty inside of you is first,  love yourself. Learn how to appreciate the gifts God has given to you. Everyone is beautiful in their own ways. Accept yourself completely by embracing all of your flaws. Those things completes you as a whole. Everyone is imperfectly perfect. If you learn to love yourself it will lead to happiness. The state in which you find contentment, pleasure and joy. Happiness is everywhere, all you have to do is to find it.

      The best way for you to enjoy happiness is to share it. Share it with your loved ones, build a good relationship with others. Create tight bonds and ties. A little act of kindness leads to friendship. Who doesn't love a lot of friends? Friends who love you and to whom you can rely with. Friends who will join your adventure and ride the roller coaster of your life. Those exciting moments, unforgettable experiences and beautiful places you've been. The camaraderie you build with each other. Everything is fun especially when shared.

       The only possible way for us to stop time is to capture a picture of it. Capture stunning shots and treasure all the beauty around you. Seize wonderful moments and share it to the world. Time fly so fast but you can always reminisce those astonishing memories you've created by looking back at the pictures you've taken. Enjoy these extraordinary privileges without breaking the ties between you and your loved ones.
          Life is beautiful. So start finding the true beauty that shines inside of you.