𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰: 𝗔 𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲

The Christmas season brings wonderful experiences and is always in our hearts. The past two years of Christmas in Canada were memorable as they gave the season a different meaning and perspective.

We're not having a white Christmas in Metro Vancouver for this year since we didn't have a snowfall except in the Mountain resorts of North Vancouver. We had a great time in Mt. Seymour on my first Christmas here in Canada, so this time, we traveled a bit farther to experience a white Christmas in 

a mountain resort and village. This time we spent a holiday in Whistler!

I've always been fascinated and dreaming about celebrating a white Christmas, so we'll be experiencing the village of Whistler as it turns into a wonderful Christmas winter wonderland.

In addition to Vancouver, Whistler hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics, so we spent time in the Olympic Village and took photos with the Olympic logo. Just behind the Olympic logo is an ice skating rink where everyone has fun.

Whistler is a world-renowned destination for snow adventures and is known as the top ski destination in North America and the world. We had to experience the fun, so we took a gondola ride to reach the first jump-off station, where we enjoyed watching the ski adventure. Skiing is fun to watch. I wish to take a lesson next time to join the ski adventure.

One of the most unforgettable experiences was joining a medicine trail snowshoe adventure on Christmas day. It was a great way to recharge and reconnect with nature as we traveled to old-growth forests with our tour guide, Melanie, a French Canadian Botanist. Mel is knowledgeable and passionate about the Whistler wilderness. I connected with her as she shared about forest bathing and its benefits. I told her I had blogged about 'forest bathing,' shinrin Roku in Japanese. It was a unique experience, feeling the snow crunch under my snowshoes and the crisp air filling my lungs. I was indeed 'bathing in the forest.'

 

"This is my first real forest bathing, as we truly bathe in the forest," I told her.

The snowshoe adventure starts with a 20-minute bus ride to Callaghan Valley, where Mel was our driver and guide. We share the bus trip with other adventurers who are into snowmobiling and dog sledding, and they have their guides.

It was about an hour and a half of snowshoeing in the wilderness, with several stops for Mel to share fantastic real-life stories about the trees and plants. Just before we got close to our starting point, Mel shared that the totem pole is believed to be a portal, and we have to set out a wish before we pass through it.

Mel emphasized that the power of manifestation lies in genuinely believing it will happen. She always reminds us of our intentions so we get the best results.

As we ended the snowshoe adventure, Mel offered tea to warm up before we got back to the bus for another trip back to the town center.  That was an enjoyable experience, and I learned some information from Mel about the temperate rainforest that we live in.

The Whistler village is alive, and the shimmering Christmas lights on the trees add a magical experience as we pass through the cobblestone streets. The local shops and restaurants were all decked out for the holidays, and we even learned some of the local Christmas traditions, like the lighting of the village Christmas tree and the carolers singing in the streets.

As we return to our cozy Airbnb room, we always make it a point to have a cup of cafe mocha and hot chocolate. This ritual of sharing travel stories and discussing our future goals over warm beverages is a source of joy and inspiration. Our travel experiences inspire us and help us visualize our future goals and dreams.

On the third day of our stay, we were greeted with a fresh snowfall early in the morning. We anticipated that, and we're glad it happened before returning home. Before breakfast, we spent an hour walking around the Olympic Park, where everyone enjoyed the fresh snowfall. Families with little kids played in the snow, building snowmen, and others played ice skating. It was fun to see happy faces full of excitement and joy.

Our holidays in Whistler were truly magical. The vibrant town transformed into a Christmas village in wintertime, and it was a sight to behold. The energy and festive spirit were infectious. We left with a desire to return in another season, eager for a different experience and a higher level of adventure. 

We'll always have a Merry Christmas, and the joyous holiday season brings warmth and joy for an extraordinary Whistler experience that's truly a Christmas in our hearts. 

©️ 2024 Del Cusay

𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗲𝗮 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗸𝘆 𝗚𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗹𝗮 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗵

𝙄𝙩'𝙨 𝙖 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙗𝙮 𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩'𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙎𝙚𝙖 𝙩𝙤 𝙎𝙠𝙮 𝙂𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙤𝙡𝙖 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙟𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙘 𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙝𝙞𝙜𝙝 𝙪𝙥 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙠𝙮. 

This outdoor destination is one of the best places to visit in British Columbia. The breathtaking sea view from the sky and on top of the mountain is worth the experience. It's exhilarating and truly spectacular. 

Let's explore this stunningly beautiful destination in Squamish, an hour's drive from North Vancouver, passing through the scenic sea-to-sky highway. 

From the base station, The Sea to Sky Gondola is a 10-minute/ 2 km ride to the summit. You'll see the forested mountain and the beautiful turquoise waters of the sea (Howe Sound) as you ascend to a higher elevation until reaching the summit lodge, which offers the most spectacular view of the surrounding mountain, the valley, and the sea. 

On the summit lodge, there are restaurants and cafes for refreshments, which extend to the outdoor patio and viewing deck, offering a view of the magnificent snow-capped mountains. 

The adventure never stops as you get to experience the surrounding trail network passing through the 100-meter Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. We walked through the most accessible trail (Spirit) and the best trail (Panorama), leading to the Chief Overlook Viewing Platform, where you can capture the best shots of the snow-capped mountain as a backdrop. 

Other trails take longer to explore, but you'll always be aware since all trails lead and end at the summit lodge viewing deck. The courses are for beginners and intermediates, so it's a family-friendly hiking experience with viewing areas and platforms for picture-taking to capture memorable moments. 

Sea to Sky Gondola is an all-year-round adventure. It's best in any season, whether on a hot, dry summer or a snowy and chilly winter. The nature trail and the viewing platforms are alluring and worth revisiting in a different season. 

The land of the Squamish First Nation is home to the Sea to Sky Gondola. The Squamish protect and preserve the beauty of their heritage and share it with everyone. It's not just about fun and adventure but also about indigenous people's culture, early beginnings, and evolution as a First Nation. 

Sea to Sky Gondola is one of the most incredible adventures of a lifetime in British Columbia. It's a place to go and chill, an adventure by nature with a thrill. 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

A Moment of Healing and Memories

Where do you go when you need to unwind, relax, and set free?

People go to Baguio City for a reason. It's a place like no other in the country. It relaxes the body, mind, and soul. It liberates from worries and fears. And it helps revitalize and heal.

That's the highlands in the northern Philippines. It is a city of Pines and Strawberries, a historically rich and vibrant city where people go for a beautiful journey filled with unique cultural experiences waiting to be discovered.

When we feel exhausted and need to rejuvenate, traveling to a particular destination helps us recover. It changes our mood and uplifts our spirit. Then, we feel good again and do great things again.

In Baguio City, you don't just feel welcome, you feel like you belong. The friendliness of the people makes you stay, although you'll have to leave anyway. With momentary healing and rejuvenation, you'll be ready to face another race in a much more challenging place.

Not just for friends and lovers, but Baguio City is also for the family. A getaway for fun, learning, and appreciation of arts and culture. Baguio City's charm invites everyone to learn about their stories, heritage, and identity.

If I choose, I'd rather live in a place that perfectly balances nature and city life. Living in Baguio is like living in a mountain resort, surrounded by natural wonders for healing and relaxation, yet with all the conveniences of urban life.

Amidst uncertainty, when time permits, I would love to travel a long distance and return to Baguio. I would love to recreate those memories and visit its finest places. The memories create a lasting impact as the place where learning and training started.

We couldn't go places as much as we wanted for now. All we can do is reminisce about the good times. And when we're set free, we can travel again endlessly.

©️  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

Moving Forward and Going Further

When was the last time you thought of giving up? Your goals, ambitions! Your dreams and desires!

Quitting is easy when we're no longer fueled by our passion and motivation. But what happens when we no longer serve our purpose just by giving up? Our love empowers us to overcome these challenges and keep moving forward. 

One thing I've learned in the corporate world is to keep on burning. Keep in mind the desires, hopes, and positive future.

Working at Ford made me realize the importance of going further in life and everything. To "go further" means many things to people. For me, it's about achieving our ultimate potential and doing our best to be at the top of the line, at the peak of performance, always full tank and energized. It's about personal growth and the determination to be our best.

My time at Ford Global City and Ford Manila was a period of growth and learning. I was success-driven to go further. There were moments of doubt and uncertainty, but I always remember to move forward and keep the passion alive.

This time, keep on moving no matter what happens. The road to the peak may be rough sometimes, but we're not giving up because we believe we can always choose to go further and live a better life, filled with the rewards of our perseverance.

©️ 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 

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

Living with the Gods in McLeod Ganj

A balanced living where nature meets progress and development. It's a place that's a blend of culture and faith.

These are the Indians and the Tibetans, living in harmony with the Gods in McLeod Ganj.

In February 2013, I traveled to be with the Gods in McLeod Ganj. They call it "Little Lhasa" because it had had a large population of Tibetans in exile since 1959 when the Indian Government accepted them and gave them a place to put up their Government while in exile. 

That's only in India. They warmly embrace refugees and protect their rights, safety, and security. 

The greatest love is the Indian Government's support of their expression of faith in Tibetan Buddhism.

My journey in McLeod Ganj was graced by a unique encounter with the Dalai Lama, the Spiritual leader of the Tibetans in exile. I was fortunate to meet him at his residence, where he shared profound insights about 'Jataka Tales' with local and international pilgrims.

I'm a Christian, but I've studied Major religions in India for over a year and incorporated their beliefs into my faith.

The world would be better if we were not too fanatic about our religious affiliation. When people would tend to fight for their faith as the best and the only truth, I would try to learn and understand others' faith deeply.

I befriend people of different backgrounds and faiths in India. It's about respect and understanding, not prejudice and religious superiority. 

With the universal God, we're all equal. God just happened to appear in different places and times in a completely different image depending on the culture and language unique to each country.

When I was in India, their Gods were my Gods. The Gods and the Goddesses in Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Islam, and Christianity. All are Gods, but also a universal God.

In McLeod Ganj, I felt the Divine Beings, the Gods of the Tibetans and the Indians. It was different images, but I prayed to their Gods on its universal form.

Stepping into the Namgyal Monastery was a transformative experience. It was a union with the Divine that didn't diminish my Christian faith but instead deepened and enriched it. 

That's why Major religions thrive in India, and people learn to live in harmony and reverence for each other's faith.

My visit to Himachal Pradesh was Divinely inspired. I traveled alone, having faith in the Divine guides. 

Whether you're a Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Muslim, or Christian, we're all brothers and sisters here on earth. We share a common humanity. Your suffering is also my suffering, and our joys are shared. We are all part of a larger, interconnected whole.

During these challenging times, what we need most is a sense of shared humanity. We need to pray for each other without boundaries, religious affiliations, prejudice, or discrimination. What we need is love, the purest form of reverence to God, to guide us and inspire hope.

Just love.

Ultimately, our love for humanity is our highest reverence for God. It's a love that transcends religious boundaries and unites us all. It's a love that inspires us to be better, to do better, and to create a world of understanding and respect. 

So it is.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

The Palace in the Sky

There's something mysterious about the ruins—the old, well-preserved structure built to last a lifetime.

That's what the ruins are for. To stand the test of time. 

In the Philippines, just an hour from Manila is the ruins we call the "Palace in the Sky," now more popularly known as "People's Park in the Sky," which gives a chilly feel due to its geographical location on the summit of Mount Gonzales in the province of Cavite.

At the veranda overlooking the Shrine of Our Lady, Mother of Fair Love

The view deck overlooking the Taal Lake

The structures' old and rustic charm attracts local and foreign visitors due to its breathtaking view of the famous Taal Volcano and Lake. 

Truly captivating!

The highest point. That's the description of the place, as it is located on the summit of the highest mountain in Cavite at 709 meters (2,326 ft.) above sea level. And so, it offers a 360-degree view of the Tagaytay Highlands, including nearby recreational parks and villages.

The story of how this "Palace in the Sky" became a famous ruin is different from the stories of the other ruins in the country.

What sets this ruin apart is its unique story, a tale that's unlike any other in the country.

The view deck overlooking the mountains

In the late 70s, during the administration of the late President Marcos, "Palace in the Sky" was commissioned to serve as a guest house for the visit of then-US President Ronald Reagan. That's a show of Filipino hospitality at its best. 

A royalty welcome and treatment.

However, the construction was left unfinished when the visit of US President Reagan was canceled.

We have been left with the "Ruins in the Sky" since then.

The rustic and mossy Palace ruins 

It's a bittersweet sight, imagining the beauty that could have been if the construction of the Palace in the Sky had been completed, but instead, it was left abandoned.

That was supposed to be consistent with the Imeldific brand, the highest extravagance attributed to former First Lady Imelda Marcos.

Honestly, I love the place on the summit. Although the ruins can be a little creepy at first sight, their beautiful ambiance captures the heart. 

It's clear that the Palace in the Sky was built with love and admiration, a testament to the beauty of the place.

The next time you visit Tagaytay, you should never miss this place. 

A must-visit! 

It's a great weekend getaway for the family, partners, or even solo travelers. It's a romantic destination that captivates the soul of anyone.

The "Palace in the Sky" is not just an abandoned ruin. It possesses timeless elegance and natural charm. It represents our glorious past and creates beautiful memories to last.

© 2020 Del Cusay

The Highlands of Baguio

Baguio City, an American town nestled in the Cordilleran region of the Philippines, is a unique hill station in the North, waiting to be explored.

The "Little America," also known as the City of Pines, attracts tourists from all over the country and foreigners who want to explore the rich culture and heritage of this highly urbanized City in the Cordillera region, which literally means a mountainous area.

However, the 'American town' label is a relic of the past. It was bestowed during the American colonization of the Philippines in the 1900s.

Baguio is one of the most incredible hill stations in the Philippines. It is good that the Americans have developed this place as their mountain resort to escape the lowland heat, especially during the summer. 

And why do Filipinos love Baguio City? Undoubtedly, its higher elevation provides a cool climate almost all year round. When summertime comes, more people pack up for an adventure. It's not just during the summer season. Still, it has become a weekend getaway for people from the nearby provinces and Metro Manila, the National capital region.

In the present day, Filipinos are in complete control of the former US military base, Camp John Hay. This was not after they gave back our independence in 1946, but it was just a not-so-distant past in 1991—almost three decades ago.

That's just a little piece of history. Yes, the Igorots of the Cordilleras have a colorful and vibrant culture, which even Americans could not change or take away their identity.

Having lived and worked in Baguio City in the summer of 2015, I witnessed its natural wonders. However, this paradise is now under threat from commercialization, the foremost adversary of environmental preservation.

Housing projects, malls, and big infrastructure projects are on the rise, and it costs thousands of century-old pine trees to be cut down to make way for these projects.

Baguio City is now crowded, and you can see the hillside full of houses and even faraway mountains almost full of places. That was not what I witnessed when I first visited Baguio in 2004.

Development on this mountain resort was so fast, taking place in just a decade, and developers are eager to exploit more and make the City miserable.

The development would have made Baguio a highly livable Philippine city, but overdevelopment for business profit will slowly kill its natural charm and beauty. The once serene and picturesque landscapes are now marred by concrete structures and the loss of century-old pine trees, a stark reminder of the cost of unchecked urbanization.

One thing I admire most about Igorots (the local name for the Cordilleran people) is their hospitality and friendliness. They are also kind and honest people. I hope that they will be able to preserve its rich culture and pass it on to the next generations. Their resilience and determination in fighting for their land, despite the challenges posed by overdevelopment, is a testament to their love for their home.

Burnham Park, Wright Park, Bell House, Kennon Road, and Brent School are places of interest named after Americans who have contributed significantly to Baguio City's development.

So, Americans showed us how to build a highly master-planned city on a mountaintop. Initially, they made it for less than 30,000 people, but after over a century, the population has become ten times larger, at more than 300,000.

The highlands of Baguio are genuinely captivating to tourists. Their history and culture, steeped in the traditions of the Igorots and the influence of American colonization, are the souls of the place and the local people. The fusion of these elements creates a unique cultural tapestry that is a must-see for any visitor. 

After the Pandemic, more people will again be stuck in a traffic jam on its zig-zag road and all the way up just to feel its mountain breeze again and the warmth of the Igorot people.

In the Highlands of Benguet Province, Philippines, Baguio City is a cultural gem and a hub of great people deserving of recognition and reverence.

Baguio City is home to charming people.

© 2020 Del Cusay

Related Post:

👉 Stairway to the Mountain

Stairway to the Mountain

Nature's spring is nature's best. That was a tremendous and meaningful adventure on the foothill of the Mountain, Mount Arayat National Park.

For most city dwellers, being closer to nature is a weekend and holiday destination. It is an escape from noise pollution and the hustle and bustle of city life, an escape from the real world of unending work and tasks, an escape from reality, even for a short while.

An adventure worth sharing led me to the enchanting and tranquil town of Arayat in the Province of Pampanga, on Central Luzon Island, the Philippines, six years ago. It was a journey of discovery and exploration that I will never forget.

Two months after arriving in the Philippines after a year of living abroad, I experienced a profound adventure and soulful healing. It was April 2014, a time when I was yearning for a deeper connection with nature. That was when I finally had a closer glimpse of Mount Arayat, which can only be seen from a distant highway when going to the country's Northernmost provinces.

Nature's retreat at Mount Arayat National Park offers excellent healing results for the body, mind, and soul. The fresh air, the serene environment, and the physical activity of a day hike all contribute to a sense of rejuvenation. This is all we need after a long and tiring work week. And for the physical grounding, a day hike to the Mountain feels like rooting to the earth. It's Nature's Way to reconnect to the world as our mind wanders and boggles, accompanied by anxiety, worries, and fears.

At the park's entrance to the hilltop community, you will be greeted by a serene environment and the soul-soothing sounds of nature. The park is also a sanctuary for a variety of bird species and wildlife under conservation, adding to the peaceful ambiance. 

The park is an excellent escapade for families, team building, and even solo retreats. There are cottages, picnic areas, playgrounds,s and campsites for everyone's needs.

A hundred-step stairway to the hilltop community is a great calorie-burning and offers a stunning view of the Mountain. Closer view to the roof of Pampanga -- the province's highest peak.

Take a deep breath and a little more hike, passing through the treehouses and all the Way to the Arayat Bikers Club. A solemn spiritual community awaits, where one is closer to nature. Truly, it is a heaven on earth for the residents and visitors.

Before heading down to the lowlands, I paused, meditated, and reflected on the Divine presence and a meaningful journey ahead.

The Mountain of Arayat and its Natural Park provides excellent service for people seeking respite from suffering, loneliness, stress, and grief.

As we navigate the 'new normal' and emerge from the pandemic, there is a collective yearning to reconnect with nature, take a deep breath, release the toxins of the body and mind, and cleanse our souls. And when we need to reset or start anew, there will always be a mountain to climb for soul-searching—to heal our being and inspire hope for the future.

© 2020 Del Cusay

Quantum Leap of Faith in the Summit

You didn't believe it until a leap of faith brought you to where you are; your present life. Your current state doesn't define your whole life, and your pause is like a slingshot ready to launch you to what you have imagined. Embracing change is the key to unlocking your potential and staying motivated on this journey of self-discovery.

Timeless energy is more than a fantasy; it drives our personal growth and transformation. It is just like our state of consciousness that creates our reality. And so if you believe that thoughts are energy, whatever you think, you become - - the becoming of who you are or who I am.

What makes this year special is another leap to complete the cycle. Another day is added to make it whole. And that's the essence of a leap year; to wait for the right time to make it full and complete.

We are once incomplete or broken at some point in our existence. And it took us days, months, and years to finally fix or fill in what was missing.

When we have found an answer to 'Who am I?', we dare to take a quantum leap of faith. This leap is not just a step forward but a significant, transformative change in our lives. We move forward and ask, ' What's next?' What is waiting for us that needs to be unveiled? 

Who is the person of our dreams? What kind of life lies ahead? What does the future bring? These are tough questions we must uncover, not instantly but intuitively. Our intuition, a powerful guide, helps us navigate these questions that come to our higher consciousness.

The quantum leap of faith is like a leap year. Just as a leap year adds an extra day to our calendar, this leap of faith adds an extra opportunity for growth and change in our lives. We believe that time will heal and, in time, will make us complete. We could wait for years for someone to come along. That's a new beginning. A new milestone to move on.

© 2020 Del Cusay

The Windows' Wind Blows

Waking up early in the morning and staring at the window—that's a great feeling when witnessing the timelapse from dawn to sunrise! The purple skies at dawn and the silhouette of the trees are a soulful morning greeting—an experience worth living.

In my hometown, the second half of February is the most incredible day to remember. The calm wind and the foggy morning are perfect for hot coffee.

A rainy day is a perfect time to hibernate and do some pure thinking over a cup of hot beverage. It's all coffee—coffee and unlimited coffee!

So many thoughts coming in, just like the non-stop pouring of the rain. And when it's time to contemplate, it has to be the finest frequency of tuning in. Only the best frequency for healing the body, mind, and soul.

Tuning in to so many frequencies simultaneously can make us feel heavy at times. Whenever our thoughts are in the past, we feel anxious about whether we did our best. We worry about what lies ahead when we tune in to the future. And then, we forget to live in the present moment.

As I stared out the window, I could smell my coffee, hear the birds chirping, and feel the gentle wind blowing. That's how I tune in to the present, and it's just a wonderful thing.

While tuning in at present, I couldn't help but tune in to one of the finest frequencies of the recent past—a heavenly frequency of a great climb to remember.

That's a selective tuning-in for a Soulful Sunday moment. It brings back not just pleasant memories but also relives heartfelt moments.

The wind blows of February will be missed. The foggy mornings will soon be over, and the rainy days will quickly end. But the memories will stay forever and be tuned in to be an excellent frequency for all seasons. 

The next time I stare out the window, it will never be the same again until the same season comes again. However, I have learned to tune in to a healing frequency even when it is raining and the sun is not shining.

© 2020 Del Cusay