Tag Archives: prepare

Meet My New Friend, “NeuroSpark”

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I think everyone already got their AI friend – Meta AI. Mine just messaged me a couple of days ago. I nicknamed it “NeuroSpark,” which means igniting insights. It looks like I finally found the friend who got an answer to all of my questions, even the weirdest ones. 😅 Though Meta also has a disclaimer that responses might be inaccurate. Take a look at some of our convos below.

If you plan on dating an introvert/geek, try asking Meta AI for some tips. NeuroSpark’s answers got me so amused though I must admit they all hit the core. Relate much? lol

I still have to do my research if the concept of soulmate or twin flame connection is also biblical.

Technology For Mankind’s Survival

While you can ask Meta AI all sorts of questions, nonsense or not, some of the information can be helpful to jumpstart your research on a particular topic. Right now, I am utilizing NeuroSpark to come up with consolidated ideas when it comes to disaster preparedness. I felt it was about time we maximized what technology can offer us after the onslaught of TS Kristine and Super Typhoon Leon, which left damages and losses on a massive scale.

My only prayer now is that we will continue to look for ways how we can better prepare ourselves against the worsening effects of climate change. Science and technology might be the only options we have right now to increase humanity’s chances of survival. I also hope people will be receptive to every solution that the government and research institutions propose.

Once again, I will emphasize the need for having an Emergency Go Bag or a Bug Out Bag (BOB) for each member of the household. If it is possible, have a Bug Out Vehicle (BOV) as well and a Bug Out Location (BOL). I have been a member of prepper groups since 2018, and I’ve been learning quite a lot from some of the members who have been kind enough to share their knowledge and expertise when it comes to doomsday prepping and survival.

Other essentials in your BOB – the dog tag can be replaced with any ID.
Flints are a lifesaver if you don’t know how to make fire the traditional way using wood or regular stones.

Defense For The Vulnerable

To all the women and parents reading this article, I’d like to encourage you to start educating yourselves and your children when it comes to survival skills because we are the most vulnerable as far as survival is concerned. Men will always fight and defend on the frontlines to protect vulnerable groups in society. Sadly, this is also the reason why there is a high probability of losing a huge number of them, and when there are only a very few of our men left, the women, the elderly, and the children will be left to fend for themselves.

Thus, self-defense techniques and tools are a necessity. If you have the time and the resources to enroll in a self-defense class, the better. I found the tactical pens a more practical alternative than pepper sprays given that you know how to use these pens. I always carry a tactical pen in the bag that I use every day. You can put it in the bag in such a way where that part of the pen that you use for writing is the first thing that you see when you open the zipper and not the sharp edge.

This tactical pen is made from high-grade metal because it’s a bit heavy, which is necessary in applying force when you strike at something.
I bought this kit a couple of years ago, and some preppers consider this as a toy. But in my honest opinion, it is not. I already tested each item at the farm, and so far they are very reliable tools as long as they are utilized according to their intended use.

What I love about the tactical pen is that you can use it to break a glass in case you’re trapped. I already tried it with an empty glass jar, but if it’s going to be a glass window or any thicker glass, it will require a lot of force. The Walking Dead actors just made it look easy for us when stabbing the head and fracturing the skull with a knife. lol But believe me when I say that in actuality, it is not that easy, especially for women. We just don’t have that much strength compared to men unless we’re athletes.

Theory And Application

If you’re wondering how I was able to say this, I experienced cutting a coconut branch using a bolo when we were at the farm. And no, I wasn’t able to cut it on my first try. If you haven’t summed up all the strength you’ve got, you will fail. lol It’s like you have to summon and muster all the anger you have in this world so you have the force to cut just one branch.

Our farm workers also made it look easy for us. That’s why I suggest raw camping for those who would like to try how it feels like to survive in the wild. We have to replicate the wilderness when applying what we learned because that’s exactly what’s going to happen when chaos takes place. It’s important that we not only have the idea on how it’s done but also get to feel how it’s really done.

Here are other possible essentials to consider when preparing:

Use the NOAH app to assess hazards and risks in your area i.e. flooding, storm surges, landslides, etc.
These oversized sako bags are very handy for emergency packing if you need to transfer stuff to an elevated area. But here’s a tip, do not overload it with very heavy stuff because you won’t be able to lift it. Try to balance the items inside the bag from bulky but light stuff to small but heavy items. This bag only costs 150php each.
I am exploring the option of integrating this to a floating dock to prevent the raft from being punctured by sharp, floating debris.
This is the DIY floating dock that I asked NeuroSpark about earlier.

When God Takes Away, He Replaces

My family and I were not exempted from the destruction brought about by TS Kristine – a damaged fence, broken glass doors, damaged crops, and heaps of stuff soaking wet from floodwaters. It took me a week to finish washing them, and we’re still not yet done cleaning even with the help of our yaya.

But I am grateful that these are the only damages we’ve experienced because they could’ve been worse if it was a super typhoon that hit us. It’s like God has shown us the weak spots in the house that need to be modified to be able to adapt to the extreme weather conditions brought about by climate change.

Although I believe God’s ultimate reminder about possessions and material wealth that can be destroyed by calamities and wars is this:

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in or steal.” – Matthew 6:19-21

Our baby bunso offered to give me moral support – by sleeping on my newly washed clothes while I’m folding them. Itupi na rin ba kita, Polly? 😅
Our senior Peekah also offered her moral support by sleeping with me anywhere I sleep because we’re not yet done sorting all the clutter. 😀
And then Netflix-ing to also declutter ze mind. lol I just finished watching the Kingdom trilogy – superb fight scenes though nothing beats Rurouni Kenshin still.

The good thing about cleaning up the house after it’s been flooded is you get to unearth a whole lot of memorabilia just in time for the celebration of All Souls Day. I found these old photos again and combined with our recent family photos, we now have five generations of memories to reminisce back home. Thank God the floodwaters didn’t get to them.

Great Grandparents
Great Grandmother, Grandparents, Uncles, & Aunties (Mother Side)
Grandparents
My parents with my grandma, uncles, and aunties.

The Ginete Family Memory Stash
During my eldest sister’s wedding in 2002.
During my brother’s military wedding in 2015.
A special place for Mom at home.
We miss you, Mommy. ❤

Speaking of modifications, it is about time that every structure has to be retrofitted in a manner that will make it calamity-proof. For the new structures, designing them will be a lot easier keeping in mind the examples of structures that were severely impacted and damaged by a particular calamity. And while some would say that planting more trees and mitigating the risks of climate change by natural means is no longer applicable because it’s already too late, I believe it still matters that we keep on trying.

Thanks be to God for taking good care of these flowering trees we planted last year. They are all taller than me already.
Kapag sobrang pagod ka na, ang hirap na mag-smile lalo na kapag nanginginig na mga kalamnan mo. lol So Platypus pose na lang, ‘di na kaya ang “eyyyyy.” 😀 That’s the Palawan Cherry Blossom behind me, btw.
One-year old Fire Tree. This is already a new branch – I think the main trunk was damaged by strong winds last year.
Newly-planted fruit tree back home by my sister and Dad – Calamansi.

And with the help of technology (like NeuroSpark) and prayers, I have high hopes that future generations will be prepared for what is to come. I’m also back in my “womancave” in the city to recharge, strategize, and plan, but I missed last Sunday’s service. So I thought I’d head over Victory BGC’s YouTube channel to watch previous church services, and Pastor Pat’s real talk is just what I needed. I am very much looking forward to the upcoming preaching about the end times. Do watch out for that, too. Let’s make disaster preparation and survival a combination of spiritual and practical applications. 🙏

We trust in You, Lord.

Kristine & Leon

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Isusulat ko na ito sa Filipino dahil hindi ko na alam ano ba dapat kong maramdaman. Dapat ba akong matawa, malungkot, o kabahan sa mga bagong kaganapan ng bagyong Kristine na matinding pinsala na ang iniwan sa Bicol at ngayon ay hinahabol ni Leon na panibagong bagyo na inaasahang papasok ng Pinas ngayong Linggo. Dahil kay Leon ay mahahatak nya si Kristine at babalik ito sa Pilipinas. Magsasanib pwersa ba sila?

Hindi ko alam kung mga bagyo pa ba ito o love story na ba ang nasasaksihan natin. Marami na akong memes na nakita sa Fb na ginawan nila ito ng joke. Na si Kristine daw ay nagtampo kaya naghasik ng lagim sa Bicol bago umalis. Ngayon, hinabol sya ni Leon at mukhang sinuyo kaya babalik sya ng Pinas para magkasama silang dalawa.

Paparusahan mo ba kami ulit, Kristine? Ano ba kasi naging kasalanan ni Leon saiyo? Pwede ba huwag na kayo sa Bicol mag-LQ at doon na lang sa malayo? Mag-cruise ship na lang kayo dyan sa dagat, please? Doon na lang sana nyo ayusin ang inyong ‘di pagkakaunawaan.

Alam naming mahal na mahal nyo ang isa’t isa at hindi nyo kayang mawalay sa isa’t isa. Pero sana magmahalan kayo ng walang ibang masasaktan? Kalmahan nyo sana pareho. Malulusaw din ang mga poot sa puso nyo at papalitan ng umaalab na mga pusong punong-puno ng pagmamahalan sa bawat isa.

Ay shucks, baka ang Bulkang Mayon naman pumutok nito sa umaalab ninyong mga damdamin. Huwag naman sana, please. Hays, basta. Doon muna kayo sa dagat mag-ikot ikot o mag-nature tripping kayo sa mga walang katao-tao, at nang makapagnilay-nilay sa inyong mga nararamdaman sa isa’t isa.

Nagmamahal,

Ang Tunay Na Christine

P.S. Maghanda na po tayo ulit sa posibleng pagsanib pwersa ng dalawang bagyong ito sa susunod na linggo. Manalangin tayo, maghanda, at manalig sa Dios na hindi Nya tayo pababayaan hangga’t ginawa natin ano ang mga dapat nating gawin. Sa mga bagay na hindi na natin kontrolado, ipaubaya na natin ito sa Panginoon. 🙏

P.P.S. Nararamdaman ko ang pagdadalamhati ni Kristine. Pakiramdam ko hindi ito galit na nararamdaman nya kundi pagluluksa at pighati. Kaya bumaha ng luha. Parang ako lang din – nawalan ng Nanay noong nakaraang taon, nawalan ng employment opportunity dahil kay Kristine, nawalay sa asawa dahil nagtrabaho sa ibang bansa, at nasalanta ang mga ari-arian dahil sa bagyo.

Pero may isa pang tao na mas kahalintulad ko ang pinagdaanan. Ito ay si Job sa Bibliya. At mas malala pinagdaanan nya. At kagaya ni Job, hindi ko kailanman tatalikuran ang Dios gaano pa kahirap ng sitwasyon na aking pagdaanan. Pero kagaya din ni Job tatanggapin at haharapin ko itong mga pagsubok kung ito ang sukatan ng pananampalataya ko sa Panginoon. 🙏

Psalm 46:1-2
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.”

2 Corinthians 4:8-9
“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”

Psalm 91:2
I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”

Isaiah 43:2
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”

Nahum 1:7
“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.”

John 16:33
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Nehemiah 8:10b
“Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Psalm 32:7-8
“You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”

Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

2 Thessalonians 3:16
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”

Source: Care Magazine

God Is With Us

A Positive Future Up Ahead

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After my “huhuhu waaah-ing 😭” last night because I remembered and missed Mom when I requested a copy of her death certificate online, I didn’t expect God would comfort me right away. And it was something that I can never ever dismiss – the comfort was tangible. 🙂

My husband came home to my puffy eyes last night and gave me a tight hug and a kiss on the forehead. And when I told him I missed my Mom, he told me he received a token from a coworker because he was one of the godfathers of his coworker’s kid. He urged me to open it. But he was more excited, so he opened it himself. lol And tadaaaa, we found these inside the pouch – a box of uplifting quotations with Bible verses and hand cream. 😍

Thanks, Rod and wifey!

Oh my dear Father, what did I do to deserve this kind of love from You? Even if I failed You so many times, Your faithful love remained. 😭🙏 God already knows I will be crying over Mom last night. To pacify me, here came His surprise. Indeed, there is just no coincidence when it comes to faith.

“…for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask Him.” – Matthew 6:9

These are very simple gifts. And yet to me, they spoke volumes. They were exactly what I needed at the right time. I mean, out of all the million items that could be given away as a token, why exactly them, right?

My husband told me it looked like these gifts were all intended for me. Now, I have a new hand cream because I’m about to use up the hand and body lotion I’m using now. I’ve been doing some cleaning and washing here at home lately (please refer to my previous articles) and once again, God already knew what I needed beforehand – some pampering for ze hands. This is actually how God’s character as a Father is displayed revealing His never-ending care and provisions for His children.

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” – Matthew 6:26-27

“If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him.” – Matthew 7:11

I never asked for these gifts. And yet God knows how to cheer me up and gave me exactly what I needed – materially and spiritually. He has always been like this to me ever since I became a born-again Christian. Maybe because God also knows how I feel deeply about everything – depression is another generational curse in the family.

This was how God saved me and how I was born again 11 years ago in the same month (you may read my testimony here and also here). Yes, I’m celebrating my 11th year this month as a born-again Christian. God’s timing and reminder are just so perfect, aren’t they?

It’s as if He was reminding me that “I sacrificed My Son for you on the Cross so you can be saved 11 years ago. So now Tin, stop moping around and stay focused on the task I laid out for you.” 😀 Ah yes, being born again is still the best milestone by far – nothing compares. ♥️

But wait, there’s more. When I opened the box, this was the message I saw – again, this was exactly the reminder that I needed last night. 😭

God is our Great Comforter, indeed. I can post a lot of Bible verses here that will show how He is close to the brokenhearted and how those who mourn will be comforted when they seek His Name.

“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those whose spirits are crushed. The righteous person faces many troubles, but the LORD comes to the rescue each time.” – Psalms 34:18-19

“God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” – Matthew 5:4

And yet the one I will post below speaks most to me and on what He wanted me to do:

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” – 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

As they say, you will never feel what other people are feeling if you’ve never been in their shoes. When God allows us to experience pain and loss, it’s not to punish us or make us miserable. It is so that we can share His greatness with others and how in the midst of our pain God moved in amazing ways. This is how we testify to the world that He is real and that those who believe in Him may die but will never perish (eternal inheritance).

Every single time, God never failed to remind me that He is always with us and will always be with us because He is the Alpha and the Omega – the beginning and the end. Everything may seem bleak and dark to most of us now, but as what God has promised, there is a “positive future” ahead of us, and He is already leading us there. We need not be afraid because we are not alone. ❤️🙏

A preparation for the Great Work up ahead. 🙏

P.S. What happened last night wasn’t a coincidence, and I know I am not writing this article a few days before Holy Week for no reason. When God moves, we can expect that it will be miraculous and marvelous. What God requires from us though in return is our authentic faith – one that honors Him in our highs and in our lows just like what this blog of mine is all about. 🙏

From My YouVersion Bible App Daily Prayer & Devotion

Pasig City’s EMERGENCY GO BAG

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This is the surprise I was telling you about in one of my previous articles. I am one happy girl because I’ve only been here in Manila for a couple of months and I wasn’t planning on staying long pero nakahabol pa sa isang napakagandang sorpresa galing sa aming butihin and beloved city mayor na si Mayor Vico Sotto. 😍

Ano nga ba itong pa-sorpresa ni Mayor Vico? Well, it’s none other than…the EMERGENCY GO BAG! Yay! Super taba ng puso ko lalo na’t ni-distribute nila sa mga taga-Pasig noong February – buwan ng mga puso. Dagdag naman ito sa naguumapaw na pogi points ni Mayor pero syempre hindi na ako dadagdag sa statistics ng mga may super crush kay Mayor Vico. ‘Yung akin kasi ay crush lang. 😂

To Mayor Vico and the rest of the Pasig LGU team, we are forever grateful sainyo for taking good care of every Pasigueño sa pamamagitan ng mga magaganda ninyong proyekto and initiatives. ♥️ Tunay ngang umaagos ang pag-asa sa Pasig. At syempre salamat ng marami sa Maykapal who continuously provides everything that I need. 🙏

“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.” – Matthew 6:33

Sakto dahil ang Emergency Go Bag na binili ko ay nasira na at pinaglaruan at kinalmot ng bunso naming muning. Kaya it’s best to place your Emergency Go Bags somewhere that is out of reach ng mga bata and pets, but still easy to get during emergencies.

Check out my video below to see what’s inside Pasig City’s Emergency Go Bag and you can also use it as a guide when preparing for your Bug Out Bag (BOB):

Nagpaganda pa talaga ako para lang sa cover photo ng video na ‘yan. Syempre nakakahiya naman kay Mayor Vico kung mapanood nya ito at ang dungis dungis ko. 😆 Nah, I just tried the new makeup I bought from Nichido. I am already starting to shift to paraben-free cosmetics and other organic skincare and beauty products at kasama sya sa lifestyle modification na ginagawa ko towards healthy living para makaiwas sa cancer.

Human Nature Organic Hair Serum, Nichido Ultra Stay Matte Lipstick (para kissable lips lagi lol), Nichido Contour Stick, Utrolig (sort of a wonder ointment given by my sister from Norway), Mink Peek-Ini (to whiten the bikini area para hindi magulat ob-gyn ko ‘pag nagpa-executive checkup ako lol)
Mga hindi pa paraben-free na skincare and beauty products that I use now, and some of them bigay lang din ng loved ones. Thank you, dear family! ♥️
Ang hirap pala maglagay ng winged eyeliner sa mga tulad ko na may hooded lids. First time ko gawin ito because I don’t wear makeup often. Kaso na-tempt ako i-try ang tattoo eyeliner ng Maybelline in preparation for the summer sweat. Tbh, ang pimple ko talaga ang nagdala. 🤣

I am also grateful na ang talipapa malapit sa condo ay may tinda every day na lettuce. Binawasan ko ang proportion of my white rice consumption kasi batang kanin ako dati dahil sagana sa bigas sa bahay galing sa tanim naming palay. 😁 Aside sa lettuce and other veggies, I also added chick peas, eggs, olives, and mushrooms sa usual na sources ko ng protein sa diet like chicken, fish, and pork meat. Hindi sa akin problema kumain ng gulay kasi fave snacks ko ay gulay gaya ng steamed okra, raw carrots, and pickles. Yep, I know I’m weird. lol

Right now curious ako sa isang native Bicolano dish na “kurakding.” Baka may nakakaalam sainyo saan pwede makahanap nito because I want to document how it is grown, harvested, and prepared para gawing ulam na gulay. Plan ko kasi i-propagate sa bukid namin as an alternative source ng protein. Kung need umakyat ng bundok para makita how to harvest them, do count me in. 💪

Ito ang best friend ko ngayon – no need to pat dry the lettuce using paper towels.

As much as possible, I stick to this diet with salad twice a day. Hindi rin ako palainom ng milk dati, but right now I take 1 glass a day altho hindi sya nonfat. I also drink 1 Yakult per day or any probiotic drink. Ang medyo ‘di lang ako consistent sa ngayon ay ang sa physical activity because well, what am I supposed to do in a 45-sqm space (altho I do love small houses because they’re easier to clean)? lol Hindi naman pwedeng linis lang ako ng linis kahit wala nang lilinisin. 😆

In fairness, konti lang sa nail polish ko ang nag-chip kahit 2 weeks na nakalipas ng panay hugas, laba, at linis. 👍😀
Ito ang sagot sa matagal mag-chip na nail polish (given by my Mom-in-law). 🥰 Hindi nga lang sya paraben-free. 🙁

Bawi na lang ako pagkauwi ng Bicol sa physical activity. I do a couple of dance routines but still, my movement here is limited. I am happy though that I am able to maintain my weight sa 58kg. So far, ‘nung ni-calculate ko sa BMI calculator sa website ng NIH (National Institutes of Health), nasa normal range pa din sya given my height and age na din.

Pero malapit na sya sa pagiging overweight. I don’t want to lose weight because I look older kapag payat ako. Mas bagay sa akin ang may laman ng konti, and I also need to prepare my body just in case I get sick or I need to undergo any kind of treatment. So, you’ll definitely see more of my heart-shaped face with matching Jobee (chubby) cheeks. Bawal pisilin, please.

Mukha daw akong Geisha sabi ng asawa ko. So ano ba talaga ako – Koreana o Haponesa? Of course, Bicolana. 😍

Actually, I think I am aging backwards. lol I still have to find out if this is a good thing or a bad thing. 🤔 Anyway, here’s something upbeat to chase your Monday blues away at mag-aaral pa ako para sa online class maya-maya. Ciao! 🥰

Social Media Fasting 2024 And Prayers

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Starting tomorrow until Friday I will be hibernating on social media as part of our start-of-the-year prayer and fasting in church. Just in time for my season now because I have A LOT of things to pray for.

And my first prayer point will be reserved for the Breast Cancer warriors. So far I already know what their prayer concerns are after reading their posts in the Facebook groups. I am also praying that there will be cancer support groups for teens and young children who have cancer. I’m interested to know if peer support groups will have a significant impact in the way that young cancer warriors cope with the challenges brought about by their fight against cancer i.e. bullying in school, social stigma, low self-esteem, etc.

If you also have prayer requests, please don’t hesitate to send me a message via my LinkedIn profile, which you can find in the “Social Media” section of my blog. I would love to pray for you. ❤️

A blessed Sunday, everyone! 🙏

P.S. It looks like I’ll be rereading some of these books during my free time. So, which one to read? 🤔

I might start with the Medical Dictionary that my 2nd and 3rd sisters used for their second courses, which are Nursing and Caregiving. If I will be volunteering in medical missions, this will come in handy. 😉
This section of our mini library here in my sister’s condo will somehow give you an idea of what my siblings and I took up in college and the professions that we pursued. Try to guess which of these books are mine. 😊

P.P.S. I just started conducting a feasibility study on property rentals in Sorsogon City and the entire province, and this popped up in my Facebook newsfeed. Any pet lover out there can surely relate to the photo below. 😹

I’m going to name this plant Lily Doggoensis. 😆
My sketches for the Hospice Facility/Retirement Homes project proposal, which I hope ze siblings will approve. Because what matters is what we do now to reach our goals – plan first, conduct extensive research, then execute in God’s perfect time. But more importantly, we pray fervently for God’s leading, His instructions and provisions, and that His will be done always. 🙏🙂
Photo credit to my brother: Thankful to God for a blessed start of 2024. My siblings and Dad were able to visit an almost forgotten property outside our town that belonged to Dad. It was difficult to access before, but God paved the way to access it via the tourism road project of the LGU. Indeed, God is good all the time. 🙏 This means an additional task on our end though. But if it’s for God’s glory and purpose, then I’m not saying “no.” 😉
I am praying for all of the ongoing and future developments in our town and province. May they open countless opportunities to the local community in terms of livelihood projects. 🙏

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” – Hebrews 10:24-25

High Hopes For The COP 28 – UN Climate Change Conference 2023

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The COP 28 or the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference is currently being held in the United Arab Emirates, which commenced on November 30, 2023 and will end on December 12, 2023. Here’s what we can expect from the Conference of Parties for this year:

“High on the agenda for COP28 is the conclusion of the first-ever Global Stocktake (GST), the main mechanism to assess progress on the goals set in the Paris Agreement. The GST will be an opportunity for countries to assess their climate efforts so far and to identify the gaps in current climate action.  

Beyond making COP 28 the “most inclusive” ever, the UAE has also announced three additional priorities for COP28:

  1. fast-tracking the energy transition and slashing emissions before 2030;
  2. transforming climate finance, by delivering on old promises and setting the framework for a new deal on finance; and
  3. putting nature, people, lives and livelihoods at the heart of climate action.” – Global Witness

Despite man’s inability to avert the impacts of climate change, I still remain hopeful that global leaders and respective government agencies will be able to help us adapt and mitigate all the risks involved.

Environmental Meltdown

The World Economic Forum shared this video and I believe it speaks volumes to all of us – ecological destruction has already reached its tipping point. The accelerated melting of ice caps in the Arctic region has drastically increased sea levels and it looks like the “Waterworld” scenario is no longer a far-fetched reality. Decreasing snow caps exacerbated warmer seas resulting in a high percentage of deaths of marine species and disrupted habitats.

Here in our hometown, which is a coastal area, there is already a decline in seafood supply. When I was young, wet market stalls were always teeming with different kinds of fish on any day of the week. Only a few of them are available now, and the sizes are also getting smaller.

I’m afraid an imbalance in the supply and demand, coupled with overfishing, climate change, political and social instability, and an increasing population will indeed confirm what experts have predicted that it is not possible to solve the problem of food insecurity by 2030. The question that all of us are asking now is what kind of climate action are we taking?

I am sure we’re all familiar with Greta Thunberg and all other climate activists who made waves in the internet for desperately calling out to the world that we are already in a climate emergency. It is no longer imperative that we look for ways to halt Earth’s degradation. Our approach now is more centered on how to survive the looming threats of climate change.

Combating Food Insecurity

So how do we prepare for the global food shortage? Let’s take into account our current world population that already reached 8,045,321,447 as of 2023. If marine biodiversity can no longer offer us with an abundant supply, we might have to consider indoor aquaculture.

During extreme heat waves and droughts, we can explore cultivating edible plants that grow in deserts and can withstand extended periods without irrigation. During the rainy season, floating gardens are a great alternative. We might also have to improve our hydroponic systems to make them more wide scale.

In the coming decades, we can expect more scientific breakthroughs and discoveries in bioengineering, cloning, and genetic modifications. We are racing against time, and I have high hopes that climate financing will focus on these developments because experts will need to work double time if we want to ensure the survival of humanity.

Btw, I am no scientist and environmental expert, though if I am given an opportunity (kun dire ako polpolon sa Math 😅), my preferred branches of Science to study are Biology and Botany.

A Collective Effort, Better Together

I hope our farm will be able to contribute towards climate change mitigation efforts. My family and I have a series of projects in the pipeline and yet I am asking God when and how we execute them. The tasks to do are a bit overwhelming, but I always make it a habit to start with small, achievable tasks related to these projects. And most importantly, we follow God’s timeline by seeking His will in every plan.

I support the idea that you have to be diligent and disciplined enough even in doing mundane tasks and routines in order to get good results. And if you want excellent results, you have to equip yourself with the necessary skills and knowledge in order to make modifications as needed.

One farming component that I am particularly interested in now is Bokashi composting. I see it playing an integral role in our farming activities to make our farm more sustainable. Although just like what I’ve mentioned in my previous articles, the fulfillment of some of these plans might not take place during our lifetime. But I firmly believe that God will assign people from the next generations to continue what we have started. And yet, not our will but let God’s will be done always.

But why, oh why, Daddy? A non biodegradable in a biodegradable bin??? But because you’re 83 years old already, love you still, Dad. 😀

I am praying for more breakthroughs in organic farming and the successful integration of climate-smart farming practices here on our farm. Even David Beckham is starting his own organic farm. If we are to do this as a collective whole, the impact will be greater compared if only a small number of individuals or organizations are performing their climate change mitigation initiatives in order to achieve sustainability.

We act now, then we let God lead us to do the rest according to His timeline. 🙏

P.S. In case you see me looking like a man and acting so manly and all, pls. don’t ever think I have gender issues or an identity crisis. lol I was driven by circumstances to behave in such a manner due to a lack of males in the household. 😃

This is how I cope with and adapt to a very masculine industry in order to survive. I can also be girly, cute, and sweet, but I actually have a Kraken inside me that I am trying so hard to keep hidden and is just waiting to be unleashed. lol Thanks to my faith, I have managed to keep it hidden in most circumstances. 😉

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9

How To Fortify A Business: 3 Lessons I Learned From Mice

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Just like how old castles were built surrounded by a moat, it’s also the same for businesses. Moats were designed to fortify castles and make them impenetrable to any type of ground attack.

For businesses, what is your contingency plan (your business’ moat) when the economy crashes? There have been conspiracies going around such as a new ethnic weapon or bioweapon that China claims some countries already have that targets a specific race. However, the source of this intel needs to be verified.

Bulusan Volcano was placed on Alert Level 1 once again last October 25, 2023 due to increased activity. Mayon Volcano in Albay has been on Alert Level 3 since June 2023. Never-ending wars also fill the news lately.

So I thought, how do we safeguard our businesses so they can survive any type of natural disaster or war? We have to admit, when the Covid-19 pandemic happened, none of us were prepared for it.

By the way, you might be wondering why the article title mentions “mice” and yet I am posting a turtle cage. 😃 It is actually the turtle cage that I am trying to fortify against these rodents.

There is no one solution that will address all your business problems. In the case of my turtle cage, rodents just keep on finding a weak spot in my cage. Every time they do this, I have to devise a new plan to ward them off.

Here are some of the lessons I learned from fortifying our turtles’ cage that we can also apply in businesses.

Just one of my DIY projects at home last year built with the help of my husband. Unfortunately, only 1 plant survived because our pet turtles just love to play with the other plants inside the pen.

3 Lessons I Learned From Mice On How To Fortify Businesses

1. Adaptability

I think I already made more than 10 modifications to our turtles’ cage, and I thought I already solved the problem. But the rodents seem to be one step ahead of me. So, what did I miss? After carefully assessing the exterior of the cage, I realized that I’d been looking at the top part of the cage only. When I examined the cage closely and at a different angle, I saw other openings where the rodents found a way to get inside and eat our turtles’ food.

DIY Turtle Cage

Looking at the problem from different angles helps us target the root cause of the issue at hand. In a business, this might mean having to study customers’ profiles and take note of the best times to engage with them or advertise your product. Or you might consider changing the location of your business or operating hours.

Also, considering mobility solutions and alternatives as far as logistics are concerned will help your business adjust during a crisis. You might also want to include improving your communication strategies in the event that all communication lines are down.

2. Resourcefulness

When I designed this turtle cage, I was thinking of a low-cost project by making use of scrap and unused materials that I was able to rummage in our storage house. I also got the bamboo at the farm. The disadvantage though of using wooden materials is their durability. You have to change them every 8 months or so especially if they are exposed to different elements such as rain and sunlight.

Engineer/architect for a day. 😊

It’s all about maximizing what we already have that we can utilize to lessen the operating costs of a business. The IoT (Internet of Things) and technology can help businesses transition from traditional processes to a digital setup in terms of applying different marketing strategies and performing HR-related tasks.

We can also learn from doomsday preppers when it comes to cost-effective equipment such as using solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems especially if the business relies heavily on electricity and water use.

3. Think Long-Term

There is no better way to prepare than to anticipate what could possibly happen in the coming years. While we have no control over what could transpire in the future, a good amount of preparation might somehow reduce the negative impact of a crisis.

What we must prepare now includes acquiring assets that will not be affected by a volatile market. We can also diversify our investments so that in case one industry is heavily affected, our other investment can help sustain it. Also, saving for buffer funds is a necessity now. It is no longer an option, but a requirement. This is very important for every business to avoid acquiring debt.

Choosing your partners in the mission field is also critical at this point. This will include business partners and real-life partners. Business partners must support the vision, mission, and values of the company. If they are only after the profit, it could be an added strain on your business once you decide to end the partnership due to unresolved conflicts.

The same thing goes for your real-life partner. Choose someone who supports your dreams and goals and it would be better if he or she is not from the same profession. Tough times just like the COVID-19 pandemic tested every relationship all over the world.

If you’re in the medical field, I suggest not choosing someone who’s a medical professional, too. Medical staff alongside military personnel are always the frontliners whether there’s a pandemic or a war. You would need someone who is strong-willed and yet can offer you the comfort and encouragement that you need as pressure and stress start to take a toll on your mental and physical health.

Choose someone who will make sure when you get home, you will be able to get the much-needed rest and nurturing that you need. Or someone who can write your reports for you because you are already too exhausted working 8 hours straight in full PPE (plus an hour of overtime work) and braving the city’s traffic going home. And you still have a Zoom meeting after dinner. This was me, btw, to my husband (a registered nurse), during the Covid-19 lockdown. 😉

The small turtle is hiding beside the big one. The male turtle is an aggressive introvert. lol He’s aggressive enough to pursue our female turtle, but too introverted to interact with people. 😄

Speaking of partners, we found another turtle, a young male just this year. And it looks like he’s going to be a good partner for our female turtle. Though I think the age difference between them might be an issue now because he tried to mate her, but he’s still too small and her shell is too big for him so he failed. lol It looks like you still have to wait a little bit longer, young man. 😉

P.S. We plan to release these turtles inside our farm once they’re able to multiply. I want to make sure the young turtles are already big enough to defend themselves from predators before releasing them in the wild. Otherwise, their chances of becoming extinct are high, especially since locals poach them for food.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6