A Conversation Worth Remembering

Chatty Me

Talking is one of the things that I do and enjoy best. I grew up hearing my father's numerous stories about his crazy adventures in life and admire him whenever he can make people laugh with his silly jokes. And now that I'm a grown up and have adventures (and mischiefs! ) of my own, I took the liberty of taking his place in making the people around me listen to my stories and laugh at my equally silly jokes. Yes, I really enjoy spending long hours on a conversation. You can ask my husband how annoying I can be. 

Oh, now I miss my Dad.

Anyways. 

I had the chance of meeting up with my Dad's cousin, who happens to be a successful businessman and accountant. I told him that I'm running a start up and he got easily interested. (I dunno if it's the fact that I'm into business nowadays or maybe it's because I'm his favorite niece! Kidding!)

Since I don't want to name who my Uncle is, let's just assume that the guy above is him. :)

The Insightful Conversation

Being able to talk to a man who knows almost everything about starting, running, and reviving a dying company is refreshing. I was able to learn a fresh perspective and get answers to my endless number of questions. We talked for about 3 hours over dinner at Shangri-La Mall in Mandaluyong, pretty much about my life in general, my kids, my husband, and Doodle Mind Solutions. However, the only thing that strikes me most is this:

"It's not easy to run a start up, it can sometimes make you cry. There are times when other companies will offer something good, it will make you think twice and grab the opportunity. But then again, you should not. Because if you want your business to succeed, you have to stick it, like it's the last thing you'll ever do. Tenacity is the rule of the game. It's a proven recipe for success."

Reflections

I remember one night when I was just blankly staring at my computer screen, thinking about how to get clients and hit a home run. I have to admit that it's frustrating, so much that I want to talk to my husband about the idea of me getting another job and drop our start up. Though I know pretty well that he won't approve. 

Eventually after three months from our launching date, I'm very proud to say that I'm still here - with one client (yay!) and continuing to work my butt out for my start up!

So yes, I might have to agree with my Uncle. No matter how much it excites me to grab an offer from another company, I need to say NO and keep in mind that all I need to do is to sit on the fence - continue doing what I'm doing and the chance of scoring some runs will eventually come. After all, I'm known for my stubbornness. Maybe it's yet another opportunity to show the world the moxie in me.

Bataan: Not Bad for a First Time

Here I am again, feeling inspired and all, that I decided to write the long-overdue post about our trip to Bataan Philippines that I planned to write weeks ago. I have been posting some pictures related to this entry on my Google+ and Tumblr, but I wasn't able to create a full-length post. So here it is.

Last Christmas was yet one of the best my family and I had. We've spent the Christmas Holidays of 2012 in Morong, Bataan, thanks to my mom-in-law (who happens to be the Operations Manager of a resort known as Vista Venice Resorts), our Christmas was twice the fun! Not to mention that this is in fact my first time in the province. 

We got there on the 23rd of December. Morong is just 2 and a half hours drive from Manila, so we have enough energy left to explore the town right away. The weather was perfect too, with little sun and it was actually a bit cold. Coming from the scorching heat of Metro Manila, I welcomed the coolness of the mountains in shorts and sleeveless shirt (please refer to my Google+ profile picture for this! Lol!)

So here are some of the best shots I had, I hope you'll like them! :)

1. Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor)

Situated at the top of Mt. Samat, Dambana ng Kagitingan is such a wonder to see. Historical wise, this symbolizes the courage of hundreds of Filipinos who fought for our freedom during World War II.

2. World War II Museum, Aerial View

This is what you'll see once you get to the top of the Cross (don't get me wrong, there's an elevator INSIDE the cross!) The view is breathtaking, you'll get to see the whole Bataan Peninsula. A friend also told me that when the skies are clear, the Luneta Park is visible from up there. 

3. Lasalle Beach, Bagac, Bataan

They say Bataan is famous for its beaches. I remember back then when I hear my Grandma mention the word "Bataan", she means the best dried fish (tuyo) and beautiful beaches. I got to confirm the rumors when I see this beach - a perfect combination of white sands and shallow water - great for kids who enjoy wading at the sea. 

4. Philippines-Japanese Friendship Tower

Situated at the junction between Morong and Bagac, the Friendship Tower is the most accessible of all the historical places in Bataan. 

5. Vista Venice Resorts Bataan

The reception area of Vista Venice Resorts, which served as our home for three days. I intend to write a full-length post on this, which will expound on our experiences at the resort. The place is in fact relaxing and the same time, adventure-packed. You'll find out why SOON. :)

So is it more fun in Bataan? Yes! Definitely not bad for a first time. :)