local love: making the most out of it

filipinos are known for our hospitality and our take-life-as-it-comes attitude. we do with what we have and have always adapted to the changes in our lives.  that is why, amidst poverty, we still have these big smiles on our faces. after all, life is too short, might as well live it right? 

introducing the no. 1 mode of transportation here in the philippines -- the jeepney. the jeepney used to be old jeeps that the americans left in our country after world war II. to easily travel through the war-ridden roads, the filipinos stripped down these jeeps to accommodate more passengers, added tin roofs and decorations in vibrant colors. when i was a student, i rode the jeep everyday and to wherever i need to go. with student allowance, it was much better to use our money on food and fun rather than spend them on taxi fares. as a kid, i was always so amazed at how the driver can drive the jeep, take the fare from the passengers and give them change, all while watching the road. i used to love riding jeepneys on peaceful afternoons -- where everyone is at work or in school. the roads were open and the wind was on my face. jeepney bonding was great too -- just laughing it off with classmates while in traffic. i have to admit though that i am not a big fan of some jeepney drivers who speed up and just pop out of nowhere nor riding jeepneys during peak hours like 7:00 - 8:00 AM or 5:00 - 7:00 PM as these times can be a nightmare. despite these setbacks, i am still proud that once upon a time, filipinos were given lemons and made lemonade -- or in this case, we were given used american jeepneys and made a great mode of transportation. 

ps. i might take a little blogging break because i think i have dislocated my right shoulder blade. it has been hurting for a month and the pain has now reached my arm so i have a hard time moving the mouse. for the past few weeks, i've only wanted to just lie down and watch tv instead of blog and i think that would be unfair to my readers if i don't say why i've been slacking off. i will make sure to read your comments though. let's just hope that after my check-up with the orthopedic tomorrow, all's well with my shoulder and arm. i'll miss you guys!

pink cotton shirt - props

floral skirt - thrifted

tan flats with a bow - parisian

canvas bag with tan leather detail - plains and prints

owl necklace - thrifted at carbon

wooden bangles - props | faux gold bangles - thrifted at carbon

tan headband - sm dept store

brown sunnies - thrifted at carbon