SkimChix - island life

I was busy during the weekend for a friend's engagement shot. They have been dating for more than seven years, if I remember that right. And they just got engage last month. She is my closest childhood friend and yes we grew up together. So I was thrill to hear the news and knowing that an opportunity to take this shoot and hopefully their wedding is on its way. And that means declining the matron of honor role for me.


It was a whole day activity that started so early in the morning to catch the rising sun. Our first location was at their private resort in Carmen with me and my angel as the official photographer. This is officially our first engagement shoot. So before heading back to the next destination, we have a quick dip in the sea that has been very calm and welcoming.

Next stop was at St Agustin Church in Danao, at the new Paknaan Bridge and at North Reclamation Area. After our lunch at Parkmall, we headed to the mountainous side of Cebu. They want to have an overview of the city but instead of taking them to Mountain View Resort, which has an entrance fee for all person coming in, I took them at Chalet. One of the camping site near Mountain View, with no entrance fee. And it does offer a very nice view for our photo shoot. And to end the day, we have our rest at Governor Leyson's peak and ate some sweet corn while savor the scenery.

It was a very tiring day but we really had fun. I'd be sharing some of my photos here but please check the rest of our photos for this shoot at our photosite, www.rayenshub.com. The site is still a work in process but I'll try my best to upload all those photos soon.

Every couple would dream of owning a house to raise their own family. And I am not exempted from this. I too would love to see myself in the future in my own house with the kids playing in the lawn and a husband who would be sitting in the coffee table early morning reading the newspaper while I prepare breakfast for a Sunday morning meal.

Each dream can be realized if steps are made to fulfill it. And as a couple we already planned for this. The Mazari Cove of Paramount Property Ventures has just opened its doors to new couples or those planning to retire in the near future. It is a beach resort like community that offers affordable house that can cater to middle class. We were lucky to have been invited in there ground breaking ceremony to at least check the site of our future home. And indeed the place was something to look forward to. It has the view of Cebu straight on the east and the mountains in the west and the buzzing life of the city seems so far away. Such a nice place to relax after a days work. Its not that far from the highway too, so transportation is convenient for those who don't have cars yet. And it is a fence community so you're secured 24/7. Something you can really call home that can give you some peace of mind.

I just saw this project in one of the facebook account and was really interested. So I guess if you too are interested with the place then feel free to contact me or leave a message so I can recommend you to the real estate agent who also caters us.

I'm sure they'll be able to give you a good idea about the place. And who knows, I'll be your next door neighbor! :D

It was a two day event that started late in the afternoon hiking to Campensa Peak at Camp 6, Manipis, Toledo. But I opted not to join the group since I have to wait for my Angel to come home from work. I will be bringing him to the camp out and hopefully negotiate to go caving the following day.

So it was only us, riding the motorcycle for almost 30 minutes, to the drop off point in Camp 6 Barangay Hall. It was refreshing to watch the view of the opposite mountain and all the greenery surrounding it. We were traveling the infamous Manipis road, know for narrow streets with cliffs on the side. It was so scary seeing the deep trenches along the way.

In the drop off point we were met by some locals who personally knew our guide and we were instructed to follow the foot path. We started climbing and hiking. It was all footpath, too easy right? Well think again, because the steps are more than a hundred steps and I think it could reach a thousand. We have to rest from time to time because everything seems like a direct assault. Angel trusted me that I will be able to lead him to the campsite before dark. Whew! It was tough because it was also my first time in the area. I don't have any idea if we really can reach the camp site in time.

And as per instruction we followed the footpath even if we are traveling away from the said peak. We were lost and it was already dark. With my not so bright headlamp, we manage to find a shorter route to the peak passing on the side of the hills. And because it was dark, we hardly can't see the path. Then a carabao was on our way, but all I can see was the carabao's eyes glittering from my light. I could still remember Angel's eyes when he saw the animal. He was scared, he can't see well in the dark and he doesn't have a headlamp. But I have to stop myself from giggling since I don't want him to get irritated, not on his first climb.

Thankfully we arrived at the camp site, unscratched and very tired and hungry. We just bought a packed meal to get rid of cooking and preparing for dinner and just have to wait for others to finish preparing their meal. And later the socials started by introducing everyone. And the alcoholic beverages, stories to share started pouring. Unfortunately, I had an early lights off. Though I was just listening to everyone talking outside the tent, since it was hard for me to sleep because of the cold.

I woke up early morning with the fog surrounding the campsite. Later the sun emerge together with a beautiful view of the city from a far. Ate a little to have energy to sustain the downhill climb going back to our jump off point. The rest of the gang have to wait for their ride going to the drop off point to the cave while we are on our way home. Too bad,wasn't able to convince Angel to join in the caving. But at least it was his first camp out. Maybe someday..

A lot of people ask me why I enjoy climbing peaks when the inconvenience of hiking for hours, tiring assaults to peak, carrying heavy bags with everything in it for ones survival and the scorching heat of the sun is exhausting. The answer is simple. You can't simply experience these beautiful scenery first hand in your comfort zone, be it in your home, in front of your laptops or even in luxurious resorts. And mind you the scenery you see in pictures are more beautiful when seen by your own eyes.

I have come to admire mother nature at these remote places way back when I was a kid. I used to go with my cousin to their lands in one of the mountainous municipality of Cebu. I could not remember a time that I would hurry in going back to the City. Because I like staying in the mountains. I just love the laid back life, the fresh air and the view of the plains. I would wander alone and I never felt lonely. My stay in the mountains always rejuvenates my spirit.

My connection with nature was lost when I got busy with my studies during my college days. I thought I'm over with my love for nature, like some puppy love that will be forgotten through time. But I was wrong. Because now I'm back and looking for more adventures that allows me to explore the mountains and peaks of Cebu. Now I'm back to what I love most and rekindling the memories that has long been embedded in my heart way back when I was a kid. And I'm up for more adventures in the mountains...

To those who are up with me, don't hesitate to email or message me your inquiries. I can help you find your own adventure..

I was at the funeral of Mr. Manuel Ting, the hotelier that was shot a few weeks ago by some gun for hire, who happens to be one of the owner of the company I was working at. I won't be discussing anything about the case since I don't know anything about it and I don't have any idea why it happened. Rather I'd like to share some insights on what I saw during the funeral.

The Ting Family did not just own one business but rather a good few. That would explain why at least 8 buses was used and vehicles has crowded the city traffic. A lot of people are earning, sending there kids to school and building better lives because of the opportunity they offer to the community. And most of there employees look at them as good person with good heart. One of his son is my direct boss and I do see the reflection of Mr Manuel Ting in him. Very vibrant when it comes to there out look with life and always willing to extend some hand. No wonder that even at the age of 72, he was still very energetic and would never hesitate to return a smile or some greetings. As a father I know that he did a good job raising such good kids. And I can see the love flowing between a father and a son. Mr. Manuel was a good owner and person to us.

So it aches to really hear about the news and I know, none of my questions will be answered until this time. So instead, I'd like to make this as a tribute to the person who has in one way shared there resources and cascaded it to us, there employees. To the Ting Family, my condolences and to Mr Manuel Ting, may you rest in peace and may justice prevail.


P.S. I did not take any pictures in the event to give privacy to the grieving family and to ensure their security.