𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲

𝙄𝙩'𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣 𝘾𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙙𝙖 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧 2023 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙨𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨. 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙡𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙉𝙚𝙬 𝙔𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙜𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙖 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙤𝙥𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙮.

The westernmost province of Canada, British Columbia is truly fascinating and I've seen some of its most breathtaking places worth visiting. I enjoyed the journey to places and being inspired by nature and the people. 

The year 2023 wasn't all about travel. It's been a roller coaster of events and a swing of emotions. Things happen swiftly and suddenly. We had joy on cloud nine, but also had seasons in the sun.

Chinese New Year in Vancouver 

We had a simple New Year's Eve celebration in Vancouver. A countdown and some selfies on our hotel room's balcony overlooking the Vancouver skyline. That was a cheerful way of welcoming the New Year with the greatest hopes and aspirations.

We also welcomed the Chinese New Year in Vancouver Chinatown in late January 2023. It was a surprise to have met Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau waving and greeting people on a parade.

I've been celebrating the Chinese New Year for years and it never fails to give me and my family some luck and prosperity. In 2023, I feel abundance coming in and it ignites optimism for greater hopes.

A Spirited Spring

I love Spring. It's the most loved season when everyone seems smiling and happy being outdoors after a long winter.

We traveled about two hours from home to spend our first Spring holiday in Harrison Hot Springs in the Fraser Valley. It's a healing place and highly revered by the local indigenous people. I felt the healing power of nature on its hot springs and probably the famous "Sasquatch" urban legend which is a spiritual creature that made several sightings documented.

Spring isn't complete without experiencing the Cherry Blossom Festival. This year, we celebrated it in Garry Point Park in Richmond and walked on a canopy of cherry trees. 

It's nice to see couples, children, and families enjoying the colors and smell of the Cherry blossoms. It's one of the most beautiful gifts the Asian people gave to North America. And in Garry Point Park hundreds of Cherry trees blossom magically.

There are more in Spring other than the Cherry blossoms. On May 22, 2023, in celebration of Victoria Day, I had my first Rodeo experience at the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair.

The best and award-winning Cowboys and cowgirls in North America showcased their Rodeo skills to the thousands of spectators from British Columbia and places in North America. 

The Rodeo event teaches us about the livelihood and lifestyle of the great Cowboys and Ranchers. What we see in the game is what happens in the real world of Cattle and any livestock industry. Rodeo is not only fun, but it teaches us about patience, endurance, and perseverance.

When the Summer Comes

Summer is full of fun under the sun. It's a great time for outdoor activities anywhere. The first event we attended was the Pinoy Festival in Burnaby at the beginning of summer on June 25, 2023. 

Pinoy Festival was the first ever and the biggest Filipino cultural event in British Columbia and we had the opportunity to meet and greet fellow Filipinos and watch their cultural performances.

That was also memorable to meet and hear the message of British Columbia Premier, David Eby who recognized the Filipino communities' great contribution to the Province and the country. 

Summer is best enjoyed when we travel a little bit far from home. On July 2, 2023, we had an hour's drive to Chilliwack to visit Minter Country Garden. It's where we found the largest selection and display of trees, flowers, and ornamental plants. We had lunch in their café and bought the finest tea in their shop.

The garden has a relaxing ambiance and it's worth the visit. I hope to come back in the future to buy some plants and bring a piece of nature at home.

In the middle of Summer, on August 6, 2023, we discovered a lake in Coquitlam after we failed to secure a parking spot on the beach that we wished to visit. After almost 2 hours of searching for an alternative spot, we had finally settled and had a pleasant picnic day on Como Lake. 

The place was surprisingly cooler than the rest of the metro and the early fall foliage was evident. I like the healthy lifestyle of the residents where they do fitness walks, fishing, and outdoor games.  

The best of Summer happened on my birthday when we had a trip to Bowen Island which is a 20-minute ferry ride from Vancouver. It's a romantic Island getaway that anyone can enjoy even on a day trip. 

We had a great time on a rocky shore in a marina just below the mountain and overlooking an Islet where small boats, jet skis, and ferries pass through.

It's a great feeling to unwind once in a while and our Bowen Island trip was one of the most memorable birthday celebrations I had. It's the best moment of contemplation and a heartfelt expression of gratitude for another year. 

Fall in Love

The colors of the fall season are truly magical. It gives a lovely vibe when you see the plants and trees change their colors and fall to the ground. 

At the beginning of the fall on September 30, 2023, we traveled to Lynn Canyon Park in North Vancouver to simply have some time in nature. 

The sound of the waterfalls was soothing to the senses as we crossed a suspension bridge leading to the trails. That was the clearest water I've seen up close on the stream. Several teens enjoy jumping off the cliff and splashing in an emerald pool of water. We simply enjoy the moment to take a deep breath and appreciate the breeze of nature.

A Sparkling Winter

British Columbia is known for its mild winter. But this year's season is warmer and we're not having snowfall in the metro for the holidays and before the year ends. 

Although we're not having a mountain resort adventure this holiday, we have enjoyed the sparkling lights of Christmas in the city. 

Our Christmas shopping in Richmond was special as we took a picture with a massive Christmas tree while hearing a festive melody. 

Our trip to the Vancouver Christmas Market was a wonderful experience. It feels like a real Christmas to be with happy and jolly people. 

The most meaningful moment is Christmas day and we celebrate it with joyful hope. We celebrated the mass and shared some fun and laughter at a family gathering. 

Back in my home country,  the Philippines, my family had the Merriest Christmas celebrations. I may not be present, but they're always in my heart every Christmas. 

The year 2023 has been a great year against all odds. We continue to hope and dream about beautiful things and meaningful life. And we continue to be grateful for all the blessings and graces we received. We end the year with love shared with our loved ones. We end the year with peace and joy in our hearts. 

©️ 2023 Del Cusay

𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀: 𝗔 𝗝𝗼𝘆𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲

𝙄'𝙢 𝙬𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙝𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙤𝙨𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙄 𝙗𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙙 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙘𝙝 2023 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙮 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 G𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙛𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮. 𝙉𝙤𝙬, 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙄 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙄'𝙢 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨.

Loss is one of the most painful human experiences and we all go through the grieving process from denial to acceptance. That's life, we have to move on and continue to live our greatest life.

Life is precious and it can be fragile. It's a God-given gift that we treasure. We had joyful memories, but we also had sorrowful moments. Despite what we've been through, we lift them to God who gives us life. 

It's my second Christmas celebration in Canada and it's not a white Christmas like last year. It's warmer than usual and a bit tolerably cold that doesn't need a layer of clothes. Different experience than last year, with a whole new scenery and vibe.

However, we had the season's first snowfall in early December, though it melted so fast the next day. That may be the first and last snowfall before the year ends and so we enjoyed it before it's gone. 

Christmas season in Canada may not be as jolly as in my home country, the Philippines. But our simple celebration here is meaningful and leaves a lasting memory to cherish.

 

Our trip to Vancouver Christmas Market was my first-ever experience of seeing and meeting people in a festive holiday ambiance and mood. It's a cool Christmas-themed village with surrounding skyscrapers, a scenic mountain backdrop, and coastal waters.

As Canada's most livable city, Vancouver never fails to amaze me with its natural beauty and wonders. And the Christmas Market with the Vancouver skyline is a wonderful and festive experience this holiday season.

Christmas will always be in our hearts. It's the most significant moment in our lives to celebrate with gratitude and remain joyful in hope.

There will always be light that glows in our hearts and we radiate it to people who are dear to us and the people we meet this holiday season. We are blessed and hopeful that things will be brighter and stronger than ever.

©️ 2023 Del Cusay 

My Sister's Sky Garden

It feels good when we have a piece of nature at home. It gives us serenity and peace of mind when we need a break or relaxation.

With the hustle and bustle of city life, we often feel depleted of energy due to chaos and pollution. Having a home garden gives off incredible and healing power to live our most remarkable life.

I love how my sister made her dream sky garden come true. She made their roof deck great for family gatherings, weekend fun, and relaxation. 

The sky gardens' al fresco vibe is what we like most. It's an excellent place to unwind and celebrate special days and other occasions. It's cool and windy on some days, especially during Christmas. 

Green space at home is what we need to be connected to nature even when living in City. Coming from a province where wildlife is abundant, I often miss being in a more natural environment. To be surrounded by more trees and flowering plants make me happy. However, in the City, we can feel attached to nature simply by creating our little oasis.

During this pandemic, everyone realized the importance of having a clean and green environment. More individuals and families are interested in plants and gardening. And they brought nature home, making them feel happier than before.

My parent's love of nature influenced my sister's interest in plants and flowers. They love to develop a natural place for a happy and healthy family. My Mother also loves indoor plants and flowers, so she would feel satisfied even when not on the farm.

My Sister's Sky Garden is an excellent place to celebrate Christmas with the family. The bonding and happy moments always create beautiful memories worth remembering. A joyous season worth reminiscing about.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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👉 Coffee in the Sky Garden

Coffee in the Sky Garden

What's that one thing you've given up on this year? It may be permanent or temporary, but that decision may impact your life.

A vice, a bad habit, or a faulty diet; are the things we hope to change. And when we start to embrace a new life without much attachment to things we used to do, we're setting ourselves up for freedom.

Setting a resolution usually starts at the beginning of the year. But what happens when suddenly we decide in the middle of the year? 

In May of this year, I decided to stop drinking coffee. This is for health reasons, to limit sugar consumption. Our blood sugar levels may increase as we age due to dietary choices and other factors. Thus, we suffer in the long run.

For five months, I limit my sugar intake. I didn't drink coffee and soft drinks, which I used to consume for several years. And this dietary lifestyle change is a commitment to a healthier body.

After five months, I started to drink coffee and soda again, but I didn't crave a more significant amount. I still have to limit my sugar consumption to maintain an ideal blood sugar level. 

Before, I couldn't function physically and mentally well without a cup of coffee. It helps me stay awake and more energetic. But there's a downside to everything too much. And so, I have to cut it before its irreversible effect happens.

Forming a habit couldn't be easier without the will and knowing its purpose. For me, I had to sacrifice my craving for health. Lifestyle diseases like diabetes can ruin our life and better functioning, so there's a limit to everything. 

When we have a healthy physical body, we can also have a healthy mind. We can achieve freedom from diseases and illnesses brought about by our bad habits and choices. Yes, we only live once. And so, we also take the chance to live it well and to be well. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

The Highlands of Tagaytay

When the smoke emits up high on a volcano, and the ashes fall, that must be scary. And 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 livelihood.

A year after, life is back to normal for the people of Taal and Tagaytay. The beauty and grandeur of the famous lake 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. I feel so relaxed, and it truly heals the soul.

People's Park in the Sky offers the best view of Taal Lake. It's cool and windy on the highest point of Tagaytay, and the backdrop is naturally stunning. Tagaytay Highlands and the Crosswinds offer a Swiss-like landscape with beautiful mountains and greeneries. 

I would love to be there. It's truly enchanting!

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 it won't 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 is a home away from home. It's a livable city away from Manila and will always remain to be 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

Year of the Ox and the Valentine

It's a different celebration of Chinese New Year this year. I visited Manila Chinatown for the new year, and it could be more vibrant and festive due to the health threat of the pandemic.

I remember how the district of Binondo in Manila was full of energy with the massive crowd celebrating the Chinese new year. 

It was colorful. It was fun!

And so this year is my year! I was born in the year of the Wood Ox according to the Chinese animal sign, and this year happens to be the celebration of the year of the said animal sign.

Ever since my younger years, I used to be fascinated with the Chinese zodiacs and astrology that we follow even up to this day.

With the Ox sign, it exhibits some characteristics like dependability and productivity. It may always be challenging initially, but eventually, things will be easy.

An ox-born individual may have higher expectations and good leadership potential. The robust and hardworking build of the Ox will make all obstacles and challenges be overcomes.

The most meaningful message for this year is to stay calm and patient that, eventually, the wheel of fortune will turn in one's favor. That's what I need to work on myself. I've been patiently waiting after a deep slumber, and may this year be a new beginning.

A new hope, career, passion, and energy!

And so, just two days after the Chinese new year is the celebration of Valentine's Day. It's about evoking emotions of love and care, remembering and reminiscing.

February is the month of love, so we chose this month for our lifelong undertaking. This time may be the most beautiful moment of meaningful and soulful expression of love.

And so, today is the heart's day. It's the time when we send special wishes to our loved ones. Despite the distance, love will always be there, not just for today but in every moment of our lives.

The new year is about a new beginning. We express our love, and we nourish it. And so, just like a flower, it will bloom and become beautiful. It gives smiles and makes one cheerful.

©️ 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 could kill 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. 

That's terrible, but we can regain control.

Through the years, it's been a challenge to be in shape. To be 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. To be fit and healthy; to be well and not ill; to feel better and not bitter; to see 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. 

Through the years, we have listened to various health teachings. From fitness and wellness gurus, medical experts, health trainers, and healers.

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.

Balanced life strategies focusing on health and wellness are what I have learned from a Master of life, Master Del Pe, since 2011.

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 is a wellness and healing center hub in the North and is gaining recognition among health enthusiasts from the Philippines and other parts of the world.

Master Del Pe had hosted an international convention at the MDP village where attendees get a perspective about higher consciousness and mastering life ahead of its 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 from various social media like 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 

A Weekend Stroll at Quezon Memorial Circle

There's a breathing space in the center of the largest city of Metro Manila lies the monument in honor of former President Manuel Quezon.

This kind of environment is all we need to take a break and have a weekend leisure walk at Quezon Memorial Circle. It's believed to be the last lungs of Quezon City with the protected 27-hectare green oval park.

The 66-meter shrine has three tall Pylons. That's a center of attraction in the busy elliptical road where six major lanes meet. It has three angels on the top, symbolizing the three most prominent Philippine Island groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

I like it when you can find green space in a large metropolis where people can visit for leisure, and Quezon Memorial Circle is one of the best places for fitness, shopping, museum tour, and food trip.

The remains of former Philippine President Manuel Quezon are inside the monument with his wife, Aurora. He's one of the best and most dignified statesmen the Philippines ever had, making his life worth remembering.

What's good about Quezon Memorial Circle is the many activities that visitors can do. I've seen many fitness groups doing exercises like jogging, biking, dancing, and even just sitting on benches or a simple walk exploring different areas of interest.

This place is also best for people who collect various ornamental plants. So many business stalls sell different varieties of plants and flowers. It makes the home greener and more relaxed, which makes it an ideal outdoor park. 

During this pandemic, indoor and outdoor gardening became a hobby for many people in the metropolitan area. It became part of their health and wellness goals to go green and relieve stress surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers.

A leisure walk in a park brings invigorating energy from the greeneries and the active people. We would want to achieve balance in our Livinges. Though life in the metropolis can be exhausting, we must take a deep breath and have a youthful glow. And so we could also share that lighter energy and vibrant glow with others.

Quezon Memorial Circle has a lot to offer, and since the 1950s, it has undergone several transformations and the newest attractions. 

We need more green parks in major cities all over the Philippines, and Quezon Memorial Circle is one of the best parks to be replicated or become a source of inspiration.

Green living is Godly Living. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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Reaching for Cloud 9 in Antipolo

There's a beautiful 360-degree view in Antipolo. The city's highest point is cloud nine, heaven in the city.

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.

I like the city vibe of Antipolo. It's a clean and peaceful city. The people are friendly and very welcoming to the tourists. No doubt that it's a favorite weekend getaway for people from Metro Manila and neighboring 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 in the country for a vacation. Filipinos' best cuisine is very well-served to the diners, and the Cloud 9 restaurant always gives 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. 

The place isn't just for a romantic couple. It also attracts families, groups of friends, and even solo travelers. Everyone enjoys the scenery. Wait until dusk, and you'll be captivated by the purple hues of the sky; even more romantic if someone is on the side.

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 with breathing, and breathed out. And as we open our eyes, we see the magic happening on cloud nine.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Wellness in the Green Village

 

If there's one thing that the pandemic has taught us, it is a shift to a futuristic mindset. 

To create the next big thing out of a soulful desire to live a better and more comfortable life in a rural setting, a peaceful and green environment.

I call it the next big thing since sustainable farming is one thing that would thrive in the next pandemic or any financial and health crisis that may come in the future.

During this pandemic, we've awakened the power of our intuition and creativity. It's to make use of our productive time while in quarantine. It may not be easy; it requires passion, endurance, and perseverance to accomplish the plan and make things possible, even when times get rough.

And so, after eight months of quarantine, we've created a green village that would be our additional source of sustainable farm living.

We've built two traditional Filipino farmhouses that serve as a rest houses whenever we visit and do some farming activities. We plan to establish farm infrastructures such as concrete roads, multi-purpose halls, villas, ornamental gardens, and a tree park.

It's my parents' dream to have a place where they could live a simple, serene, and meaningful life, and they're making it possible with their strength, willpower, and Divine guidance.

When living in Manila, I always thought of returning to our hometown and presenting some dream farm ideas to my parents. And fortunately, they've accomplished some of them. Even if there's more to develop, still I'm happy with what they've started.

Within the decade, we're looking forward to seeing a growing family. We're also hoping that the green village will bring us closer. We express a deep love of nature and a deeper connection to the Divine and its creation.

I may be living away from home and may not be able to see the development physically in the years to come, but I'm happy that I've seen how it was able to start and what it would be like in the future -- such a futuristic glimpse.

This pandemic might be a blessing in disguise because we learned to keep going and believe there's always a great opportunity in adversity.

The making of a green village is not just about health and wellness. It's also about building a lasting legacy with our environmental responsibility and contribution. We protect the Greenville country farm with the love of nature. And a conscious connection with the Divine love to nurture.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

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Walking Tour in Mumbai

I had a terrible experience in Mumbai, and that's something unforgettable. The city is the financial and cultural capital of India. And it's one of the finest and wealthiest cities in India.

But with its glamour comes the downside of bustling city life for the Mumbaikars. It's the chaos of daily living like other major world megacities. And with a month-long stay in Mumbai, I couldn't help to stay much longer. I had had enough of the good times and the bad times.

The district of Bandra where I stayed was a busy scene of street commerce, where businesses are displayed on the streets, primarily ready-to-wear, colorful garments, and other personal products. I didn't bring many clothes from New Delhi, so I could buy something new from Mumbai, but then I haven't bought a new Kurta, but just a few shirts for 150 rupees each and a new pair of shoes from a Nike outlet store in Bandra. That's all I needed for my walking tours around Mumbai's streets and downtown areas.

In Bandra, I would take a daily walk along with the bandstand and pass by the mansion of Shah Rukh Khan, one of the famous Bollywood actors. The Bollywood "Walk of Stars" was newly installed then. The name of stars like Kareena Kapoor, whom I've known from the movie "3 Idiots" and other celebrities whose expressions and body marks are inscribed and molded-- their version of the Hollywood "Walk of Fame."

Some days, I would travel by cab from Bandra and pass through the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. It's a majestic bridge connecting Mumbai's two most essential districts and the gateway to the downtown area where the world heritage sites are located.

I would pass and get intrigued with the tower mansion of the Ambanis. They're India's richest family and business tycoon. That's a million-dollar house in Mumbai's most expensive real estate location.

As I reached the old downtown area, my walking tour started with appreciating the old European structures like the Gateway of India and the magnificent Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, rich in colonial history and built during the British Raj.

I enjoyed the gallery viewing inside the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. From its construction, the Royal visits, and the terrorist attack, I learned a piece of its glory and gruesome history.

One day, I traveled by train from Bandra to Christchurch station, and I had a horrible experience with the ticketing system, in which I got into trouble. Luckily, I survived and continued exploring the cricket field around the University of Mumbai and the nearby areas where I had escaped from another trap. Still, I enjoy watching students playing cricket -- a popular Indian sport similar to baseball.

I spent more days in Bandra, and so I explored the streets. There were days I enjoyed a cup of cappuccino in a café, and some days I visited the nearby churches to pray. I went to a church on a hilltop, a short distance car ride via Hill Road.

Before I left Mumbai, I had yet to find Bollywood. It's not a place, but it's a film center. I understand they're the largest producer of films in the world. I've watched some of Shah Rukh Khan and Amir Khan's films not in Mumbai but in the cinema in Delhi. There's more to Bollywood in Mumbai, but I needed more.

That was a month-long stay, and I learned about the place and the people, culture, food, music, and lifestyle.

Mumbai has a colorful heritage and history; whenever I have a chance to return in the future, it will be much more wonderful and truly memorable.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay