29
Jul
2010
2010
tree friend
Found this unusual “creature” at a mountain park here in Cebu. The kids were quite amused and scared at the same time when they saw this, they thought its an ent. Ents are fictional giant tree-like forest guardians from J.R. Tolkien’s novels.
The tree is made of cement but from a distance, it looks like a real tree as if with real roots and leaves. Its a huge planter with plants on branches that appears to be part of the tree. Also the abundance of trees around it made it looked like its really part of the forest. You can find this tree in the peaceful Cebu Mountain View Nature’s Park up in Busay Hills, Cebu City. A mere 10 minutes away from Lahug. I love this place with a great vista of the city and the sea, fresh cool air and serene environment. Bring the whole family here – the kids will surely enjoy the campsite, mini-zoo, hanging bridges and pool. While grandpa and grandma will enjoy the cool breeze in one of the cottages and swings in the area. Perfect for afternoon picnic, mom and dad will enjoy it here as well. This place is just perfect for serious contemplation or simply daydream, just make sure that the nobody is in the karaoke area.
In case you want to visit this Mountain View Park, here are the details:
Mountain View Nature Park
Busay, Cebu City
Tel: 63 (32) 231 5444/2321-5454
26
Jul
2010
2010
magical ride
Rain and sniffles is not a good combination – it makes me cranky and restless. I could bite people’s head off when not in a good mood. I love the rain but i hate the sniffles – its giving me parties in my head (aka migraines) that even Alaxan can’t alleviate the throbbing pain. Hmmm. I think that’s the reason why I have the urge to eat chocolates like an expectant mom. Nope. I’m done with the “expecting” part.
Anyhoo, since its the new President’s 1st State of the Nation Address today, I’ll post a national symbol. The kalesa/ caritela is a horse-drawn carriage used as a mode of transportation in some areas here in the Philippines. Here in Cebu its called tartanilla and its still being used in Cebu City’s downtown area, around Colon, the oldest street in the Philippines. (see map below). The tartanilla is driven by a kutsero and its as colorful as the Philippine Jeepney. I’ll try to catch one when its not rainy, meantime here’s a miniature from my archives.
View Larger Map
23
Jul
2010
2010
a glimpse
History is written by the victors – Winston Churchill
If you want to learn more about the history of Cebu or the “discovery” of the Philippines by Ferdinand Magellan (as claimed by then conquistadores), do visit the 16th century church, Basilica del Sto. Nino, look up and you’ll see a glimpse of the history on its painted ceiling.
As for my opinion on Magellan’s “discovery” of the Philippines, I think we should discuss this personally. I believe that there are misinterpretations in the history of the Philippines. period. I stop here because I don’t have the authority to speak for it.
