Bark for Love 2012

Despite the lack of sleep and a hangover, picked up my sister at Lexmark so we could go to Mactan Shrine for the Bark for Love 2012 dog event.

I told a number of friends to visit, specially those with dogs since there were free immunization, castration, de-worming and checkups.

‘Couldn’t stand the castration process though. I couldn’t go near their booth to take a photo. The one time I did see what was happening, I felt faint already. I’m not really the queasy type of person that easily faints at the sight of blood or needles. It broke my heart, watching dogs administered with anesthesia that seems to make them sleep while they are being castrated. Rebel and Tinker are both male dogs. I cannot imagine putting them through that.

Aside from the castration booth, basically I loved the event.  Being held in such a historical sight, with the ocean and shrine’s picturesque setup and adding the festive mood, it was definitely fun and a great event to meet old friends and possible new ones. I mean, what’s a good way to start up a conversation but dogs?

The organizers were really set on the rules and had the assistance of the local government. There were a number of police officers on the area to prevent and act on any theft or criminal activity that may occur as well as to monitor kids and dogs who were swimming nearby. A number of the cleaning aid were also present to immediately clean up the area. Since the entire shrine area was mapped out to have the organization booths,vet stations, food and beverages and dining area in separate parts, it was easier for people to navigate around. SO definitely a kudos to the organizer and the local government of Lapu-lapu City.

 

 

Island Celebration

Flickr Tags: sinulog,Cebu,birthday,2012

My birthday this year falls on the third sunday of January…which all locals to the island and even the transients who’ve come to celebrate with everyone, is Sinulog. A celebration of the entire island of Cebu. In reality, the celebration as most in the country sprung from the adaptation of both of the Christian fate and the ancestral beliefs.

Aside from the street parties on Saturdays before the event, the parade is a party in itself. Contingents from all over the country would join the Sinulog dance interpretation/competition. And all colors are displayed beautifully as well as the drum beats everyone would be dancing to.
This year, my friend Steph and I have decided to really watch the parade. The last time I’ve done this was 7 years ago, which was again my birthday.

Having lived here for 13 years, I went out prepared. More like geared for battle. (LOL) backpack, camera, extra shirt, umbrella, towel, shades, water and sun block. And, I did prep myself, that the event would be crowded, therefore no violent tendencies for the high possibility of moving with a mob.


   
After the parade, we headed to Mactan for dinner, to avoid the crowd we were sure were celebrating on the streets as well as anticipating the fireworks display.

Best way to celebrate a 31sth birthday: party with the rest of the island.

Of My Blood and Yours

Steph and I were finally able to attend the annual Night of Heritage here in Cebu City.

Maybe it's a first-timer's perspective or a non-art connoisseur, however, I could conclude that the event was awesome.

I didn't mind the ticket price or the slightly drizzly weather.

The museums and the stops, the art exhibit and even the slightly confusing bus ride was definitely worth the time, effort and my slightly annoying phobia for crowds.

I'm pretty sure some people were there for the raves of being seen and being on print or the telly. But it was still nice to see kids there, learning more of history, appreciating local art...and even a few couples who made it a date night. 

Love the art work exhibit at sacred heart Church, our last stop before we headed to IT Park for a very late dinner or too early breakfast with Lane.

 
I hope I could attend again next year and be more prepared despite the "tourist" look I probably would be sporting again.