“100 Days to Heaven”: A Refreshing TV Series

I seldom watch teleseryes; most often than not, my schedule does not permit me to watch primetime TV.  

I chanced upon “100 Days to Heaven” last week. It was a Sunday, if I am not mistaken.  I believe that it was a replay of the pilot episode shown last May 9. I instantaneously recognized it as the series being plugged by ABS-CBN which I’ve seen a couple of times.  Seeing Coney Reyes as one of the main casts made me sit and watch it (I don’t watch primetime TV, but I watch Coney Reyes and company’s CBN Asia almost every night).  I have not been aware of Coney Reyes doing TV series recently, so I told myself that this must be a good project for her to be in it.  So I watched and I was not disappointed.  

http://www.internetphilippines.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/100-Days-to-Heaven-Teleserye.jpg

What impressed me most about “100 Days to Heaven” is its storyline and dialogues. I won't go into describing the plot anymore, since I am sure that many are aware of the character of Anna Manalastas, which is being played by Coney Reyes as the adult Anna and Xyriel Manabat as the little Anna. For me, what is noteworthy about "100 Days to Heaven's" storyline and treatment is that the viewer can readily comprehend the "motivation" behind the character of Anna Manalastas.  Compared to other teleseryes where the audience cannot fully understand the character's "motivation" for doing what they do, "100 Days to Heaven" has fully established Anna Manalastas' character through flashback scenes and dialogues.  The audience was given a "sneak peek" on Anna's life--her family background, what she went through as a young girl and as a young lady--factors that molded her character as an adult. Another notable aspect in the story is that even the rationale behind her father's character, played by Mark Gil was revealed in a scene prior his character's demise. The characters of the support casts were also high established.  This, I think, gives the series an upper hand vis-a-vis other tv primetime series, because it elicits the viewer's empathy for the characters, emanating from the former's understanding of the character's personalities and background, particularly that of Anna Manalastas. In a way, the viewers are made to see where the characters "are coming from."  

Acting-wise, I didn't have to think twice about Coney Reyes.  She is definitely, in my opinion, one of the country's most reputable actresses, but the Little Anna awed me.  Honestly, since I don't watch much TV, I didn't even know her name, until I made some research.  For me, Xyriel's acting talent is astonishing, considering her age.  The support casts, being bankable actors and actresses is also another plus factor.

I was not a bit surprised to learn that "100 Days to Heaven" had trended worldwide in Twitter during its pilot telecast.  It also   grabbed the first spot in the top 20 most watched programs last May 9, according to Kantar Media. This series is really worth watching. 
http://100days.abs-cbn.com/updates.html#


For me, "100 Days to Heaven" is a refreshing TV series.  With a strong storyline and treatment plus a popular and meaningful soundtrack "Mahiwaga" by Fatima Soriano, it is potent vehicle to impart values that young people may emulate.  In the middle of technological advancement and global village where young people are presented varying views and values, there is a need for more TV programs like "100 Days to Heaven" to make the young and old rethink the values that may have often been taken for granted.

It may be a dog-eat-dog world out there, but there's "100 Days to Heaven" that will remind us that amidst all the difficulties of life, there is hope, faith, friendship, forgiveness and second chances---"Kuha Nyo?" 

The End of the World: A Reflection

Today, I am not writing about the good life; I am writing about the supposed end of the world yesterday (May 21) that never was.  I’ve not been aware of this prediction (I’ve been so self-absorbed lately), until I heard mass last week in Trinoma, where the officiating priest made a humorous comment that the number of people going to confession increased because of the prediction.  Aside from the priest's remarks, the rumors of the impending doom became clearer to me after seeing news clips on television, as well as a network’s documentary about the subject.  I never really believed that the world will end on May 21, but I’m surprised that even today, one day after the supposed rapture, the topic is still on television and still trending on the net.  This aroused my curiosity and I found myself looking for secondary sources on the subject.

Apparently, the supposed end of the world was foretold by the group of Harold Camping who heads the Evangelical Network Family Radio in Oklahoma.  Reports stated that Camping utilized a mathematical system to interpret the prophesies of the Bible.  Sources pointed out that Camping predicted the same in 1994, but since it’s already 2011, we can conclude that the prediction did not happen.
http://newsfeed.time.com/2011/01/03/judgment-day-will-may-21-2011-be-the-end-of-the-world/

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5013/5450204062_378ba8905c.jpg

Amidst all of these, I started asking myself the implications of this pandemonium. What’s the big fuzz about the end of the world? The hype on the subject matter is so much that I can’t help asking myself—are we afraid to die?  Perhaps, I need not ask, because the answer is glaring in front of my face. 

Then it occurred to me that yes, the world has not ended, but to some it seemed like the world has crumbled and has come to an end:

--For the family of the 7-year old girl who was raped and whose body was dumped into the river;

--For the family of the race champ whose life was not spared due to the incompetency of some people;

--For families whose family members were brutally murdered and have not had a taste of justice;

--For the countless Juans whose source for the next meal is still unheard of.

It seems like the end of the world to some people, everyday.  It’s easier to care about the end of the world, but sometimes, we forget to let the lives of people begin around us because of indifference (Don’t worry, I am also sometimes guilty of that!). It’s also kind of ironic that we care about the destruction of the Earth, which we have long been destructing and reconstructing at the same time. 

On one hand, looking at the brighter side, perhaps, the rumors on rapture gave us the chance to rethink and re-evaluate our lives as a person, as a nation, as people of the Earth.  After all, even during the homily, father mentioned something about the increase in the number of people going to confession (LOL!).

Even as a small girl, I've already heard predictions and stories of rapture, but I believe that like death, the day of reckoning will come like a "thief in the night", as in the "Parable of the Bridesmaids."
http://www.nscblog.com/miscellaneous/the-parable-of-the-wise-and-foolish-bridesmaids/  

It pays to always be vigilant.  More than that, I believe that God loves the world and everything in it and in His infinite mercy, there is still hope for us, for Mother Earth and that He will make all things beautiful, in His time.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2228/1535619818_553e92122f.jpg

Let us be steadfast in prayer and see the world as "becoming" and not going to the dogs.

Bible Verses On Money

http://www.flickr.com/photos/9993075@N06/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/9993075@N06/

Living a good life entails having money.  It may not be the end-all and be-all of our existence, but it's certainly one of the components to be able to live a full, satisfying life.  No one can live a rewarding life without food, clothing shelter and freedom to avail of other things that can enhance one's body, mind and soul.  

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3460/

Still, we hear people whine about money--not having enough money, the economy going down the drain and how difficult the times are.   Sometimes, I am also guilty of the same.  There are a number of published books  that delve on the topic of money--how to acquire and manage it, but somehow, we tend to overlook the Bible as a prosperity textbook where precepts on money may be read, reflected upon and followed.  

Here are a number of compiled Bible verses on money.   I hope that these Bible verses help inspire people who may be having concerns about money and those who may just want to learn more about the Christian perspective of acquiring and managing money.

FAITH IN THE DIVINE PROVIDENCE 

Philippians 4:19

My God will supply whatever you need, in accord with his glorious riches in Jesus Christ. 

Matthew 6:26-32

Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are not you more important than they? Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span? Why are you anxious about clothes? Learn from the way the wild flowers grow. They do not work or spin. But I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was clothed like one of them. If God so clothes the grass of the field, which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith? So do not worry and say, 'What are we to eat?' or 'What are we to drink?' or 'What are we to wear?' All these things the pagans seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1200/

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/

Matthew 7:11

If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good things to those who ask him.

Luke 12:7  

Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. Do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.  

PROSPERITY 

1 Corinthians 3:21 
So let no one boast about human beings, for everything belongs ton you, 

Deutoronomy 8:18 
Remember then, it is the LORD, your God, who gives you the power to acquire wealth, by fulfilling, as he has now done, the covenant which he swore to your fathers. 

2 Corinthians 3:5 

Not that of ourselves we are qualified to take credit for anything as coming from us; rather, our qualification comes from God.   

Proverbs 6:6-8

Go to the ant, O sluggard, study her ways and learn wisdom; For though she has no chief, no commander or ruler, she procures her food in the summer, stores up her provisions in the harvest. 

DEBT 

Proverbs 3:27-28 

Refused no one the good on which he has a claim when it is in your power to do it for him.  Say not to your neighbor, "Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give," when you can give at once. 

Romans 13:8
Owe nothing to anyone, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.  

Proverbs 22:7

The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.

MANAGING MONEY/ STEWARDSHIP

Luke 16:11 
If, therefore, you are not trustworthy with dishonest wealth, who will trust you with true wealth? 

Luke 14:28 
Which of you wishing to construct a tower does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if there is enough for its completion? 

Titus 2:2 
that older men should be temperate, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, love, and endurance.

TITHING 

Malachi 3:10 
Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, That there may be food in my house, and try me in this, says the LORD of hosts: Shall I not open for you the floodgates of heaven, to pour down blessing upon you without measure? 

Malachi 3:8
Dare a man rob God? Yet you are robbing me! And you say, "How do we rob you?" In tithes and in offerings! 

Haggai 2:8 
Mine is the silver and mine the gold, says the LORD of hosts. 

My Fave Boracay Hotels

Boracay, an island located in the northern region of Aklan province is one of the country’s top tourist destinations, especially come summertime. Both local and foreign tourists flock the island and all for good reasons--to enjoy the famous Boracay sunset, its pristine white sand, good food, water sports and hospitable and relaxing accommodations from Boracay hotels. 

Having done events in Boracay in the past 7 years has endeared Boracay to me.  Albeit the primary reason for my travel to Boracay was work-related, our group tried to squeeze in some fun times to the arduous workload (but of course, only after the events were done and well-executed!).  Throughout these years, we've formed partnerships, camaraderie and friendship with a number of locals, especially with the management and staff of Boracay hotels.  So, if you're thinking of having a summer escapade in Boracay, purchase your ticket, pack your bag and summer essentials and book your accommodations in one of my favorite Boracay hotels. 

My favorite Boracay Hotels: 

Discovery Shores 

If you're after a luxurious experience, Discovery Shores is the Boracay hotel to discover.  It's located in Station 1.  Discovery Shore's experience begins when one avails of their boat transfers.  As soon as your plane arrives in Caticlan Airport, a Discovery Shore staff (normally holding placards) will usher you to their docking area.  To cool down from the exhausting travel, each guest in the boat is given a cool, wet, face towel and cold drinks. 

Discovery Shore's Boat

I, along with 2 companions booked a Junior Suite, which averages 40-45 square meters.  We got the room with 2 queen-sized beds.  What's nice is every Junior Suite comes with an extra day bed for lounging.  It can also be used for sleeping for a third occupant in the room.  Bathrooms have a full glass feature on one wall, overlooking a rock garden. 

The Junior Suite

What I couldn't forget about Discovery Shores is that they give every guest a foot bath upon check-in.  While we were there, a staff went to our room to wash our feet with foot scrub and warm water.  Then the staff toweled our feet dry.  It reminded me about the stories in the Bible where Jesus and the apostles had to wash their feet before entering a home. Aside from the foot bath, the guests can immediately help themselves with "welcome drinks" and sweets that are on the coffee table. 

Beachfront

Discovery Suites has its own beachfront within the resort.  Sure, it's still part of Boracay beach, but it's already within the resort; thus, exuding an exclusive and luxurious feel to the place.  Discovery Shores also has a big pool.  They also give-out luxurious freebies to their guests:  a blue shopping bag with cologne and a quite expensive brand of sunblock.   

The Pool

My Quest for Ageless Beauty

The stresses and responsibilities that modern women face today takes its toll on the skin; these factors accelerate aging.  What’s disheartening is that signs of aging normally shows initially on the face—discoloration, fine lines and wrinkles.  That is why it is imperative that we take care of our skin to retain its youthfulness and glow.  We can’t stop time, but we can maintain the way we look during our prime.   I can already imagine some violent reactions that treatments might be expensive.  Nowadays, there's the "magic" of group buying.  One can get deals and discounts through the power of bulk buying.  Discounts may vary from 50% to 90% less the original price.  There are a number of group buying sites in the Philippines.  One can pay online or over the counter and the group buying site will e-mail the voucher to the buyer.  These vouchers are to be presented upon redemption of the product or service. That brings me to my next story, since that’s exactly what I did! 

It was my first time to avail of a service from a group buying site called Tipidto.com.  It was really “tipid”, because what would normally cost me PHP 3,000 for the Ageless Facial Treatment and Rejuvenating Spa from Celtrex,  which I was able to avail only for PHP750. (Now, that's 75% off!).  

I went to Celtrex’s Office where I was greeted by two lovely ladies Eve and Christel.   I was quite excited to avail of the Ageless Facial Treatment and Rejuvenating Spa, since my last facial treatment was like eons ago.  While availing of the service, we had a little tête-à-tête.  In the course of our conversation, I learned that Celtrex is part of Icircle Corporation which specializes in health, wellness and beauty management. 

Now, let me walk you though the process of Ageless Facial Treatment and Rejuvenating Spa from Celtrex. 

1.  Facial Cleansing  

 Any treatment begins with facial cleansing. Eve applied a facial cleanser on my face and     requested me to wash it off.  I can't divulge the brand of the products that they are using, but these are known products from the US which are already tested in terms of formulation and efficacy.  These products are kind of premium (efficacy and price-wise), but they explained that each tube or vial should last a long time, since one only has to use minute amounts.

That's me after the facial cleanser was applied.  

2.  Facelift. 

After facial cleansing, it was time for facelift.  These includes white & black heads removal, sun damage treatment, face lifting & firming. Eve got some liquid from a vial and applied it onto my face with the use of a brush.  She covered my nose with a tissue and applied some more transparent liquid liberally on the nose area.  As the liquid dries up, I felt the my skin "tightened."  According to these experts, the way I looked after the formulation has dried on my face is exactly the same way I will look when I have already aged.  (Scary!)

Eve explained  that the "bloated" parts are sun-damaged and visible lines are possible wrinkles.

When the formulation has completely dried, Eve peeled off the tissue from my nose . As expected, impurities went with the tissue.  I washed my face again.  

 3.  Galvanic Spa 

After the facelift and blackheads were removed, Eve applied 2 kinds of serum on my face.  
Eve applied two kinds of transparent liquid on my face; one is said to be positively charged and the other one, negatively charged.  These are face conductors that draw out impurities from the skin and allow the pores to breathe when used with the Galvanic Spa.  Through the no-lift gentle massaging action, the Galvanic Spa helps enhance circulation that enables the skin to recover from stress. At this point, I have already noticed my skin's pinkish glow.

4.  Skin Toning 

 This is to bring back the natural pH balance of the skin and close the pores. 

After skin toning

5.  Moisturizing 

After skin toning, Eve applied a moisturizer on my face.  The one she applied functions as a moisturizer, concealer and powder-foundation.  It also has sun protection or SPF.  Marvelous! 

After the treatment (bongga!) 

I really felt relaxed and rejuvenated after the Ageless Facial Treatment and Rejuvenating Spa.  The entire process took only 45-minutes and voila! I felt brand new!   I am satisfied with the results, but I still need to go back to Celtrex.  For best results, one should avail of the treatment once a week for the next 3 months.  That is to achieve what they call AgeLoc.  AgeLoc is the technology that would literally "lock" the way you look at 40, even if you have already reached 60. 

What really amazed me during the session was the efficacy of the products.  In school, we were taught pH balance (base and acid.  Remember the litmus paper thing-y?).  Eve and Christel tested the pH balance of some of the commercially available soaps and it surprised me to see how acidic these commercial soaps are.  They also made a demonstration on how their products can restore the pH balance of the skin and remove impurities.  They got an antiseptic and poured it  into a glass of water.  Naturally, the water turned black.  When mixed with their product, the water's black color was neutralized and the water's color turned white. Amazing!

The pH Pencils 

I was just seated all throughout this 45-minute process, because this is what they call "mobile spa."  What’s nice about Celtrex is that they can bring the technology services to your home.  You don’t go to them, they go to you!  The treatment can be done without lying-on-bed just like the traditional facial treatment procedures but some Celtrex clinics/ spa centers can offer it the way the customers prefer (lying-on-bed or just comfortably sitting). 
Centrex’s other services include AgeLoc Facial Spa, Facial Treatment for Oily Skin, Face Targeted and Line Corrector and Face Lift with Deep Facial Cleansing.  

Celtrex also has a walk-in center located at the 15th floor Octagon Center, 41 San Miguel Avenue, Pasig City.  They, too have 2 clinics, which have a more relaxed setting like beds and other facilities.  One clinic is located at the 26th Floor, Trafalgar Plaza, H.V. Dela Costa St. Salcedo Village, Makati and other one is at the 2nd Floor Bldg B, BBC Group Center Filinvest Ave., Filinvest Corporate City. Interested parties should make reservations 3 days in advance.  Celtrex's e-mail address is celtrexphils@gmail.com.

Begin your quest for ageless beauty, just as I did, without having to pay too much.  Check Tipidto.com and other group buying sites for other Celtrex deals.  I just needed to add, of course, it pays to be beautiful on the outside, but we also have to radiate the true beauty coming from inside.  :)