𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲

𝙄𝙩'𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣 𝘾𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙙𝙖 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧 2023 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙨𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨. 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙡𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙉𝙚𝙬 𝙔𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙜𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙖 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙤𝙥𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙮.

The westernmost province of Canada, British Columbia, is truly fascinating. I've seen some of its most breathtaking places worth visiting. I enjoyed the journey to these places and was inspired by nature and the people. 

The year 2023 wasn't all about travel. It's been a roller coaster of events and a swing of emotions. Things happen swiftly and suddenly. We had joy on cloud nine and seasons in the sun.

Chinese New Year in Vancouver 

We had a simple New Year's Eve celebration in Vancouver. A countdown and selfies on our hotel room's balcony overlooking the Vancouver skyline. That was a cheerful way of welcoming the New Year with the greatest hopes and aspirations.

We also welcomed the Chinese New Year in Vancouver Chinatown in late January 2023. It was a surprise to have met Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau waving and greeting people on a parade.

I've been celebrating the Chinese New Year for years, and it has never failed to give my family and me some luck and prosperity. In 2023, abundance is coming in, igniting optimism for greater hopes.

A Spirited Spring

I love Spring. It's the most loved season when everyone seems smiling and happy being outdoors after a long winter.

We traveled about two hours from home to spend our first Spring holiday in Harrison Hot Springs in the Fraser Valley. It's a healing place and highly revered by the local indigenous people. I felt the healing power of nature on its hot springs and probably the famous "Sasquatch" urban legend, a spiritual creature that has made several sightings documented.

Spring isn't complete without experiencing the Cherry Blossom Festival. This year, we celebrated it in Garry Point Park in Richmond and walked on a canopy of cherry trees. 

It's nice to see couples, children, and families enjoying the colors and smell of the Cherry blossoms. It's one of the most beautiful gifts the Asian people gave to North America. And in Garry Point Park, hundreds of Cherry trees blossom magically.

There are more in Spring other than the Cherry blossoms. On May 22, 2023, celebrating Victoria Day, I had my first Rodeo experience at the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair.

The best and award-winning cowboys and cowgirls in North America showcased their rodeo skills to thousands of spectators from British Columbia and other places in North America. 

The Rodeo event teaches us about the livelihood and lifestyle of the great Cowboys and Ranchers. What we see in the game is what happens in the real world of Cattle and any livestock industry. Rodeo is not only fun, but it teaches us about patience, endurance, and perseverance.

When the Summer Comes

Summer is full of fun under the sun. It's excellent for outdoor activities anywhere. The first event we attended was the Pinoy Festival in Burnaby on June 25, 2023, at the beginning of summer. 

The Pinoy Festival was the first and biggest Filipino cultural event in British Columbia, and we had the opportunity to meet and greet fellow Filipinos and watch their cultural performances.

It was also memorable to meet and hear the message of British Columbia Premier David Eby, who recognized the Filipino communities' significant contribution to the Province and the country. 

Summer is best enjoyed when we travel a little bit far from home. On July 2, 2023, we drove an hour to Chilliwack to visit Minter Country Garden. We found the most extensive selection and display of trees, flowers, and ornamental plants there. We had lunch in their café and bought the finest tea in their shop.

The garden has a relaxing ambiance, and it's worth the visit. I hope to return to buy some plants and bring a piece of nature at home.

On August 6, 2023, in the middle of summer, we discovered a lake in Coquitlam after failing to secure a parking spot on the beach we wished to visit. After almost two hours of searching for an alternative place, we finally settled and had a pleasant picnic day on Como Lake. 

The place was surprisingly incredibly cooler than the rest of the metro, and the early fall foliage was evident. I like the residents' healthy lifestyle, which includes fitness walks, fishing, and outdoor games.  

The best of Summer happened on my birthday when we went on a trip to Bowen Island, a 20-minute ferry ride from Vancouver. It's a romantic Island getaway that anyone can enjoy, even on a day trip. 

We had a great time on a rocky shore in a marina just below the mountain, overlooking an Islet where small boats, jet skis, and ferries pass through.

It's a great feeling to unwind occasionally, and our Bowen Island trip was one of the most memorable birthday celebrations I've had. It was the best moment of contemplation and a heartfelt expression of gratitude for another year. 

Fall in Love

The colors of the fall are truly magical. It gives a lovely vibe when trees change color and fall to the ground. 

At the beginning of the fall, on September 30, 2023, we traveled to Lynn Canyon Park in North Vancouver to spend some time in nature. 

The sound of the waterfalls was soothing to the senses as we crossed a suspension bridge leading to the trails. The water was the clearest I've seen up close on the stream. Several teens enjoyed jumping off the cliff and splashing in an emerald pool of water. We used the moment to take a deep breath and appreciate the breeze of nature.

A Sparkling Winter

British Columbia is known for its mild winter. But this year's season is warmer, and snowfall is not expected in the metro for the holidays and before the year ends. 

Although we do not have a mountain resort adventure this holiday, we have enjoyed the sparkling lights of Christmas in the city. 

Our Christmas shopping in Richmond was extraordinary. We took a picture of a massive Christmas tree while listening to a festive melody. 

Our trip to the Vancouver Christmas Market was a wonderful experience. It feels like a real Christmas to be with happy and jolly people. 

The most meaningful moment is Christmas day, and we celebrate it with joyful hope. We celebrated the mass and shared fun and laughter at a family gathering. 

My family had the Merriest Christmas celebrations in my home country,  the Philippines. I may not be present, but they're always in my heart every Christmas. 

The year 2023 has been a great year against all odds. We continue to hope and dream about beautiful things and meaningful lives. We continue to be grateful for all the blessings and graces we receive. We end the year with love shared with our loved ones. We end the year with peace and joy in our hearts. 

©️ 2023 Del Cusay

𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀: 𝗔 𝗝𝗼𝘆𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲

𝙄'𝙢 𝙬𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙝𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙤𝙨𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙄 𝙗𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙙 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙘𝙝 2023 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙮 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 G𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙛𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮. 𝙉𝙤𝙬, 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙄 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙄'𝙢 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨.

Loss is one of the most painful human experiences, and we all go through the grieving process from denial to acceptance. That's life; we have to move on and continue to live our most remarkable life.

Life is precious and fragile. It's a God-given gift that we treasure. We have joyful memories and sorrowful moments. Despite what we've been through, we lift them to God, who gives us life. 

It's my second Christmas celebration in Canada, unlike last year's white Christmas. It's warmer than usual and a bit tolerably cold that doesn't need a layer of clothes—a different experience than last year, with a new scenery and vibe.

However, the season's first snowfall was in early December, though it melted so fast the next day. That may be the first and last snowfall before the year ends, and so we enjoyed it before it was gone. 

Christmas season in Canada may not be as jolly as in my home country, the Philippines. But our simple celebration here is meaningful and leaves a lasting memory to cherish.

 

Our trip to Vancouver Christmas Market was my first-ever experience of seeing and meeting people in a festive holiday ambiance and mood. It's a fabulous Christmas-themed village with surrounding skyscrapers, a scenic mountain backdrop, and coastal waters.

As Canada's most livable city, Vancouver always amazes me with its natural beauty and wonders. And the Christmas Market with the Vancouver skyline is a wonderful and festive experience this holiday season.

Christmas will always be in our hearts. It's the most significant moment in our lives to celebrate with gratitude and remain joyful in hope.

There will always be light that glows in our hearts, and we radiate it to people dear to us and the people we meet this holiday season. We are blessed and hopeful that things will be brighter and stronger than ever.

©️ 2023 Del Cusay 

My Sister's Sky Garden

It feels good when we have a piece of nature at home. It gives us serenity and peace of mind when we need a break or relaxation.

With the hustle and bustle of city life, we often feel depleted of energy due to chaos and pollution. Having a home garden gives off incredible and healing power to live our most remarkable life.

It's truly inspiring to see how my sister turned her dream of a sky garden into reality. Her roof deck, now transformed into a perfect spot for family gatherings, weekend fun, and relaxation, is a testament to the power of determination and creativity. 

The al fresco vibe of the sky garden is a perfect setting for family gatherings and celebrations. The cool breeze, especially during Christmas, adds a touch of magic to these moments, making them even more memorable. 

A green space at home is more than just a garden. It's a connection to nature, a reminder of the lush landscapes we grew up with. Even in the city, it's possible to create our own little oasis, bringing a sense of home wherever we go.

During this pandemic, everyone realized the importance of having a clean and green environment. More individuals and families are interested in plants and gardening. And they brought nature home, making them feel happier than before.

My parent's love of nature influenced my sister's interest in plants and flowers. They love to develop a natural place for a happy and healthy family. My mother also loves indoor plants and flowers, so she feels satisfied even when not on the farm.

My Sister's Sky Garden is an excellent place to celebrate Christmas with the family. The bonding and happy moments always create beautiful memories worth remembering. A joyous season worth reminiscing about.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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👉 Coffee in the Sky Garden

Coffee in the Sky Garden

What's that one thing you've given up on this year? It may be permanent or temporary, but that decision may impact your life.

Whether it's a vice, a bad habit, or a faulty diet, these are the things we hope to change. And when we take the first steps towards a new life, free from the shackles of our old ways, we're empowering ourselves for a brighter future.

Setting a resolution usually starts at the beginning of the year. But what happens when suddenly we decide in the middle of the year? 

In May of this year, I decided to stop drinking coffee. This is for health reasons, such as limiting sugar consumption. Our blood sugar levels may increase as we age due to dietary choices and other factors. Thus, we suffer in the long run.

For five months, I've been in control of my sugar intake. I've abstained from coffee and soft drinks, which I used to consume for several years. This dietary lifestyle change is a testament to my commitment to a healthier body, and it's a feeling of control I wouldn't trade for anything.

After five months, I reintroduced coffee and soda into my life, but I didn't succumb to the same cravings. I've learned to control my sugar consumption to maintain an ideal blood sugar level, and it's a small victory that brings a sense of accomplishment. 

Before, I couldn't function physically and mentally well without a cup of coffee. It helps me stay awake and more energetic. But there's a downside to drinking too much, and so I have to cut it before its irreversible effect happens.

Forming a habit couldn't be easier without the will and knowing its purpose. For me, I had to sacrifice my craving for health. Lifestyle diseases like diabetes can ruin our lives and better functioning, so there's a limit to everything. 

When we have a healthy physical body, we can also have a healthy mind. We can achieve freedom from diseases and illnesses brought about by our bad habits and choices. Yes, we only live once. And so, we also take the chance to live it well and to be well. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

The Highlands of Tagaytay

It must be scary when smoke emits high on a volcano, and the ashes fall. What's even more frightening is when the smallest active volcano disrupts people's lives.

That was the scene in January 2020 when the Taal volcano erupted. People were frightened and put on forced evacuation. Nearby establishments were closed, and many families lost their homes and livelihoods.

A year later, the people of Taal and Tagaytay have shown remarkable resilience. Life has returned to normal, and the beauty and grandeur of the famous lake continue to captivate one's soul from any distance.

The cool climate of Tagaytay is perfect for a bowl of beef bulalo and a cup of coffee with a breathtaking view of Taal Lake and the volcano. I love its romantic scenery and will never tire of it. It makes me feel so relaxed, and it truly heals the soul.

People's Park in the Sky offers the best view of Taal Lake. The cool, windy atmosphere at Tagaytay's highest point, coupled with the naturally stunning backdrop, is truly a sight to behold. Tagaytay Highlands and the Crosswinds offer a Swiss-like landscape with beautiful mountains and greenery, adding to the area's allure. 

I can't help but yearn to be there. The enchanting beauty of Tagaytay is truly irresistible!

The picnic grove is a fun-filled moment with a closer view of Taal Lake. The place has changed a lot since our last family visit in 2016. More changes are in place, hoping that they will not lead to overdevelopment but a balance of nature and city life.

A year after the lockdown, more people visit places of interest, and they deserve a great place to unwind and rejuvenate. Tagaytay is beautiful, and Taal Lake is naturally wonderful and perfect for a weekend family getaway.

The Highlands of Tagaytay are a home away from home. It's a livable city away from Manila and will always remain beautiful.

It is enjoyable and romantic when you share happiness with your family and special someone. It's great to make lasting memories, and we'll always create meaningful moments to cherish and reminisce.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Year of the Ox and the Valentine

This year, the Chinese New Year is being celebrated in a unique way. I had the opportunity to visit Manila Chinatown for the new year, and despite the subdued atmosphere due to the health threat of the pandemic, the vibrancy and festive spirit of the celebration were palpable.

I remember the district of Binondo in Manila being full of energy, with the massive crowd celebrating the Chinese New Year. 

It was colorful. It was fun!

And so this year is my year! I was born in the year of the Wood Ox according to the Chinese animal sign, and this year happens to be the celebration of the year of the said animal sign.

From my earliest years, I've been captivated by the rich tapestry of the Chinese zodiacs and the intricate world of astrology, a fascination that continues to shape my life and beliefs to this day.

With the Ox sign, it exhibits some characteristics like dependability and productivity. It may always be challenging initially, but eventually, things will be easy.

An ox-born individual may have higher expectations and good leadership potential. The ox's robust and hardworking build will overcome all obstacles and challenges.

The most meaningful message for this year is to stay calm and patient that, eventually, the wheel of fortune will turn in one's favor. That's what I need to work on myself. I've been patiently waiting after a deep slumber, and may this year be a new beginning.

With the dawn of this new year, I am filled with a renewed sense of hope, a fresh wave of energy, and a rekindled passion for life and all its possibilities!

And so, just two days after the Chinese New Year, Valentine's Day is celebrated. It's about evoking emotions of love and care, remembering and reminiscing.

February is the month of love, so we chose this month for our lifelong undertaking. This time may be the most beautiful moment of meaningful and soulful love expression.

And so, today is Heart's Day. It's the time when we send special wishes to our loved ones. Despite the distance, love will always be there, not just for today but in every moment of our lives.

The new year is about a new beginning. We express our love, and we nourish it. And so, just like a flower, it will bloom and become beautiful. It gives smiles and makes one cheerful.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Wellness and Balanced Life Strategies at the MDP Village

Fitness and wellness. That's our goal to achieve year after year at the start of the new year. 

Fitness goals must be part of our health journey. Being healthy and free from diseases and illnesses makes us truly alive. It makes us jump high to reach a new level of success as we start our year right.

The higher the jump, the lighter, the better.

Yes, the past years may have been out of control when our unconscious dietary lifestyle hit us badly, eating junk foods of no nutritional value, making us ill and killing us.

Then, work and stress eating or overeating may have led to being out of shape. Our physique changes as we add years to life when metabolism hits low. 

Yes, the past years may have been out of control when our unconscious dietary lifestyle hit us badly, eating junk foods of no nutritional value, making us ill and killing us. But remember, we can regain control.

Over the years, it's been a challenge to be in shape. Being fit takes a lot of discipline and commitment. It's always challenging but doable and possible. I used to make it with minimal discomfort but had achieved the desired goal.

I can, and I will!

This year, 2021, is about returning to what we used to be: fit and healthy, well and not ill, feeling better and not bitter, seeing things brightly and not ugly.

Getting sick is expensive and deadly. I can't afford it, so I choose to be well and avoid getting ill. It's a choice we all have, and I choose wellness. 

Through the years, we have listened to various health teachings. From fitness and wellness gurus, medical experts, health trainers, and healers. Learning from these experts has been invaluable in our health journey.

There's a great Master who has greatly influenced my belief about achieving balanced health and the esoteric causes of diseases, now revealed to humanity.

Since 2011, I have learned balanced life strategies focusing on health and wellness from Master Del Pe, a master of life.

I'm grateful to have known and been mentored by a modern Sage and an international life coach who's visionary in leadership and has a deep love for humanity and the world.

After decades of world travel and working with individuals, families, governments, groups, and companies in more than 100 countries, the Philippines is truly blessed to have Master Del Pe return and settle in his hometown.

Master Del Pe's new Shangri-La is beautiful in the highlands of Cervantes, Ilocos Sur, in the Northern Philippines. 

His MDP Village, a wellness and healing center hub in the North, offers a range of services and programs designed to promote health and wellness and is gaining recognition among health enthusiasts from the Philippines and other parts of the world.

Master Del Pe hosted an international convention at the MDP village where attendees got a perspective on higher consciousness and mastering life ahead of time.

MDP village is also a spiritual sanctuary, an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, and in regaining life to have peace of mind daily.

I've attended and listened to Master Del Pe's interviews on various social media platforms, such as Facebook and YouTube; his insights and expertise are mindblowing. 

If you want to visit him at the MDP Village or meet him in Metro Manila, follow and contact him on his social media accounts below.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/masterdelpe/

YouTube: https://youtube.com/user/MasterDelPe

Website: https://www.mdpvillage.com/

I've learned a lot from Master Del Pe. He's a master in life who can help us live the best life we deserve. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay 

A Weekend Stroll at Quezon Memorial Circle

There's a breathing space in the center of the largest city of Metro Manila lies the monument in honor of former President Manuel Quezon.

This kind of environment is all we need to take a break and have a weekend leisure walk at Quezon Memorial Circle. It's believed to be the last lungs of Quezon City with the protected 27-hectare green oval park.

The 66-meter shrine has three tall Pylons. That's a center of attraction in the busy elliptical road where six major lanes meet. It has three angels on the top, symbolizing the three most prominent Philippine Island groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

I like it when you can find green space in a large metropolis where people can visit for leisure, and Quezon Memorial Circle is one of the best places for fitness, shopping, museum tour, and food trip.

The remains of former Philippine President Manuel Quezon are inside the monument with his wife, Aurora. He's one of the best and most dignified statesmen the Philippines ever had, making his life worth remembering.

What's good about Quezon Memorial Circle is the many activities that visitors can do. I've seen many fitness groups doing exercises like jogging, biking, dancing, and even just sitting on benches or a simple walk exploring different areas of interest.

This place is also best for people who collect various ornamental plants. So many business stalls sell different varieties of plants and flowers. It makes the home greener and more relaxed, which makes it an ideal outdoor park. 

During this pandemic, indoor and outdoor gardening became a hobby for many people in the metropolitan area. It became part of their health and wellness goals to go green and relieve stress surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers.

A leisure walk in a park brings invigorating energy from the greeneries and the active people. We would want to achieve balance in our Livinges. Though life in the metropolis can be exhausting, we must take a deep breath and have a youthful glow. And so we could also share that lighter energy and vibrant glow with others.

Quezon Memorial Circle has a lot to offer, and since the 1950s, it has undergone several transformations and the newest attractions. 

We need more green parks in major cities all over the Philippines, and Quezon Memorial Circle is one of the best parks to be replicated or become a source of inspiration.

Green living is Godly Living. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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Reaching for Cloud 9 in Antipolo

Antipolo boasts a unique 360-degree view, with Cloud Nine standing as the city's highest point. It is a true paradise within the urban landscape.

As I waited for the sunset, I was so thankful to see the panoramic view of Antipolo City and the magnificent skyline of Metro Manila.

The City of Antipolo, Province of Rizal, is blessed for its higher elevation and proximity to the Philippine National Capital Region, Metro Manila. You'll feel its cool and windy climate in less than an hour's drive.

Antipolo exudes a serene city vibe with its clean, peaceful streets and the warm welcome of its residents. No wonder it's a beloved weekend escape for those from Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

The Cloud 9 Hotel and Restaurant is my favorite spot in Antipolo. I had a sumptuous lunch after a short day trip around the city. The wide-open restaurant in the sky serves delicious Filipino dishes and is a favorite destination among food lovers, including returning Filipinos on vacation. Filipinos' best cuisine is very well served to the diners, and the Cloud 9 restaurant always leaves a lasting impression.

The best 360-degree view is on the hanging bridge and reaching the tower on the other side. It's a great view with a romantic appeal to families, lovers, and friends. 

Antipolo's charm isn't limited to romantic couples. It's a magnet for families, friends, and solo travelers, all drawn to its breathtaking scenery. And when dusk falls, the sky is painted in mesmerizing purple hues, adding an extra touch of romance to the experience.

Cloud 9 is reminiscent of "The Peak" in Hong Kong, but the former is Filipino pride. I enjoyed it. I love it, and I'll surely come back for more.

Life is good and bestowed with Divine grace. As we reached the peak, we paused for a while, closed our eyes, held on to our breathing, and breathed out. When we opened our eyes, we saw the magic happening on cloud nine.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Wellness in the Green Village

 

If there's one profound lesson the pandemic has taught us, it's the necessity to shift to a futuristic mindset. This experience has prompted us to reflect on our lives, choices, and impact on the world, leading us to embrace a more sustainable and mindful way of living. 

I want to create the next big thing, a sustainable farm village, out of a soulful desire to live a better and more comfortable life in a peaceful and green rural setting.

I call it the next big thing since sustainable farming is one thing that would thrive in the next pandemic or any future financial and health crisis.

During this pandemic, we've awakened the power of our intuition and creativity. We're making use of our productive time while in quarantine. It may not be easy; it requires passion, endurance, and perseverance to accomplish the plan and make things possible, even when times get rough.

After eight months of quarantine, we've achieved a significant milestone—the creation of a green village that will be our additional source of sustainable farm living. This accomplishment fills us with pride and inspiration, as we know we can overcome challenges and bring our dreams to life.

We've built two traditional Filipino farmhouses that serve as a rest house whenever we visit and do some farming activities. We plan to establish farm infrastructures such as concrete roads, multi-purpose halls, villas, ornamental gardens, and a tree park.

My parents dream of having a place where they can live a simple, serene, and meaningful life, and they're making it possible with their strength, willpower, and Divine guidance.

When living in Manila, I always considered returning to our hometown and presenting my parents with some dream farm ideas. Fortunately, they've accomplished some of them. Even if there's more to develop, I'm happy with what they've started.

We're looking forward to seeing a growing family within the decade and hope that the green village will bring us closer. We express a deep love of nature and a deeper connection to the Divine and its creation.

While I may be living away from home and unable to witness the physical development in the years to come, I'm filled with hope and optimism for the future of our green village. I'm grateful to have seen its humble beginnings and look forward to the futuristic glimpse of what it will become.

This pandemic might be a blessing in disguise because we have learned to keep going and believe there is always a great opportunity in adversity.

The making of a green village is not just about health and wellness. It's also about building a lasting legacy with our environmental responsibility and contribution. We protect the Greenville country farm with the love of nature. And a conscious connection with the Divine love to nurture.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

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Walking Tour in Mumbai

I had a terrible experience in Mumbai, but it was unforgettable. Mumbai is India's financial and cultural capital and one of its finest and wealthiest cities.

But with its glamour comes the downside of bustling city life for the Mumbaikars. It's the chaos of daily living like other major world megacities. And with a month-long stay in Mumbai, I couldn't help but stay much longer. I had had enough of the good times and the bad times.

The district of Bandra, where I resided, was a vibrant hub of street commerce, offering a unique shopping experience. The streets were lined with a variety of businesses, primarily showcasing ready-to-wear, colorful garments, and other personal products. My limited wardrobe from New Delhi prompted me to indulge in some local shopping, and I ended up with a few shirts and a new pair of shoes from a Nike outlet store in Bandra. These were all I needed for my explorations of Mumbai's streets and downtown areas.

In Bandra, I would take a daily walk along the bandstand and pass by the mansion of Shah Rukh Khan, one of the famous Bollywood actors. The Bollywood "Walk of Stars" was newly installed then. The names of stars like Kareena Kapoor, whom I've known from the movie "3 Idiots" and other celebrities whose expressions and body marks are inscribed and molded-- their version of the Hollywood "Walk of Fame."

On certain days, I would take a cab from Bandra and traverse the awe-inspiring Bandra-Worli Sea Link. This majestic bridge, a symbol of modern engineering, connects Mumbai's two most essential districts and serves as the gateway to the downtown area, where the world heritage sites are located.

During my explorations, I often found myself passing by the tower mansion of the Ambanis, India's richest family and business tycoon. The sheer opulence of this million-dollar house, located in Mumbai's most expensive real estate location, never failed to intrigue me.

As I reached the old downtown area, my walking tour started with appreciating the old European structures like the Gateway of India and the magnificent Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, which was rich in colonial history and built during the British Raj.

I enjoyed the gallery viewing inside the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. From its construction, the Royal visits, and the terrorist attack, I learned a piece of its glory and gruesome history.

One day, I decided to experience Mumbai's local train system. I traveled from Bandra to Christchurch station, but I had a horrible experience with the ticketing system. Due to a misunderstanding, I was fined for not having the correct ticket. This incident taught me the importance of understanding the local transportation rules. Despite this setback, I continued exploring the cricket field around the University of Mumbai and the nearby areas. I enjoyed watching students play cricket, a popular Indian sport similar to baseball.

I spent more days in Bandra, and so I explored the streets. Some days, I enjoyed a cup of cappuccino in a café, and some days, I visited the nearby churches to pray. I went to a church on a hilltop, a short car ride via Hill Road.

Before I left Mumbai, I had yet to find Bollywood. It's not a place, but it's a film center. I understand they're the largest producer of films in the world. I've watched some of Shah Rukh Khan and Amir Khan's films not in Mumbai but in Delhi cinema. There's more to Bollywood in Mumbai, but I needed more.

That was a month-long stay, during which I learned about the place and its people, culture, food, music, and lifestyle.

Mumbai has a colorful heritage and history; whenever I have a chance to return in the future, it will be much more wonderful and truly memorable.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay