Entry #4: That's What Makes Philippines Beautiful

                Inside of an oyster is a pearl that is truly precious and special. Just like a pearl, Philippines can be described in the same way. From its beauty and strength, it perfectly symbolizes the country. Let us try to enumerate the reasons why Philippines is beautiful. Brace yourselves and get ready for a journey that will surely fuel your wanderlust.

                Philippines has 7, 107 islands and has various landforms that provide resources, including valleys, mountains, volcano and caves which can be used for agriculture and mining. Beautiful beaches like Boracay, and even one of the 7 wonders of the nature--Puerto Princesa can be also found. It is also surrounded by water, this is why fishing becomes one of major industries in the country. In fact, it is known for having the largest fish, smallest one, and even the most expensive seashell. In addition, it is home for diverse range of birds, plants, animals and sea creature.

                Not only the country itself is what makes Philippines fascinating, but also the people. Aside from having a fair complexion, first, they have a unique combination of Malayan, Chinese, Indonesian, Spanish faces and other races since they are once colonized by them. Second, Filipinos are still able to smile even in the midst of problems. The bigger the problem, the more faithful they become. Lastly, they are hospitable, family-oriented, and  they value relationships with other people.

                Filipino cuisine is also what makes their culture unique. Balut (duck embryo), dishes like Adobo, Sinigang, Afritada, Kare-kare, Tinola, Pancit Palabok may also included, which some of them are brought by Spanish and Southeast Asian influence. Meanwhile, Filipinos celebrate an annual event like fiestas which are related to their beliefs or religion. Bayanihan is also included in their culture, where the unity of the community is being expressed to achieve something. Besides, respect especially to the elders is really important to Filipinos, that is why children says ‘po’ at ‘opo’ and even do ‘mano’. Finally, one of the cultural sign of the Philippines is cheap but windy jeepney, where you can ride, carrying 16-20 passengers.
                As can be seen, Philippines is beautiful in its own and different ways. Only here in the country will make us feel that kind of fun and enjoyment. Philippines is not just a place to travel or visit, but also a home for everyone. Here, it will make us realize that there are other things to be happy about, more than a money can do. Choose and visit Philippines for an unforgettable destination and try to experience the real fun adventure!

Entry #3: Oblivion (Vocabulary)

According to Merriam-Webster, oblivion is the fact or condition of forgetting or having forgotten. An example of oblivion is someone’s memory after a bad head injury. It is also defined as the state of being unaware or unconscious of what is happening around one, and the state of being destroyed. One related form of this word is oblivious or unaware, which is formerly considered incorrect before, but this use is now acceptable. I encountered this word when I was reading John Green's novel titled The Fault in Our Stars. It was the part where Hazel Grace Lancaster asked Augustus Waters if what was his fears. He answered, "I fear oblivion," and added, "I fear it like the proverbial man who's afraid of the dark." So after I read it, I immediately searched for its meaning. And that's how I have learned the word oblivion.

Entry #2: Sunset at Beach

The best scene that impress me even only through photos is sunset at beach. You can see the sky with blending of red, orange and yellow. Below, you can see the vast ocean and its waves, with a reflection of sunlight. Both sides, left and right, consists of big trees which make you feel the fresh air. At the front view, you can see the horizon, where the sky and ocean meets, even the half part of the sun. You can watch it while sitting on the sand. It helps you to feel calm and peaceful.