There is a belief that most Filipnos share, that is that the Philippines is a hub for many paranormal beings like ghosts, fairies, gnomes and so forth. It’s a kind of “if you know, you know” belief that the Philippines is a spiritual place, not only in terms of its people but the land itself. If you have lived in the Philippines, you have heard of many stories that defy any modern beliefs one might garner in the western world. It’s common to have a scary story to share, whether it be a story you heard someone else experience or you might have experienced some yourself. Either way, these stories are not for the faint of heart.
The apparent Christian influence can be experienced in everyday life but especially during Easter. Filipinos have unique ways of expressing their devotion to God and Christ; some following tradition from the holy book while other practices can be described as theatrical and definitely a great portrayal of the Filipino’s version of devotion.
When you can hardly control anything in the world and everything is at a standstill, being able to create your sanctuary is a blessing. No one knows how long we have to take extra precautions to be safe- it's anyone's guess! What helped was focusing my efforts on things I can control.
To say that Filipinos take the holidays seriously would be an understatement. Let me paint you a picture: news channels display a countdown to Christmas and Filipinos start decorating their homes for the holidays starting from September! Some malls would also start playing Christmas songs and decorate! Yes, you read that right. Two months before Halloween and three months before the first snowfall here in Canada, Filipinos spend four months getting ready for “the most wonderful time of the year!”
Living in Toronto, you not only can see how multicultural the city is- you can taste it too! With all the amount of various foods that originated from different parts of the world, not only is there quantity but quality too. It’s one of my favorite things when it comes to living in the big city! Nevertheless, when it comes to comfort food, I find myself yearning for foods that remind me of home. There are some things that Toronto cannot replicate- especially when it comes to food.
Living in the twilight zone - a mix of both worlds - was and is difficult. My family could not understand some of my beliefs and some of my friends could not relate to why I cared to cater to what my family thought. Although I am surrounded by other immigrants who face the same difficulties of immigrating and growing up in a country with a different set of ideals compared to the country we were born into, I realize it is up to the individual to seek their balance between the two worlds and create their own.
What’s a Christmas Celebration in a Filipino home without a huge Noche Buena? Nothing brings family together like a huge feast during the holidays....
When it comes to finding the perfect gift for our loved ones, there are many factors one can consider to ensure that the gift is more than well-rec...
There is a belief that most Filipnos share, that is that the Philippines is a hub for many paranormal beings like ghosts, fairies, gnomes and so forth. It’s a kind of “if you know, you know” belief that the Philippines is a spiritual place, not only in terms of its people but the land itself. If you have lived in the Philippines, you have heard of many stories that defy any modern beliefs one might garner in the western world. It’s common to have a scary story to share, whether it be a story you heard someone else experience or you might have experienced some yourself. Either way, these stories are not for the faint of heart.
Photo taken from Canva The saying, “Home is where the heart is,” didn’t mean much to me until I grew up and started to reflect on where home is as...
I remember when I was growing up, I would frequently be disappointed whenever I opened a can of cookies and saw sewing material instead. I h...
Ice cream during hot weather is a classic but ever care for something a little different? It’s time to elevate your dessert choices this summe...
The apparent Christian influence can be experienced in everyday life but especially during Easter. Filipinos have unique ways of expressing their devotion to God and Christ; some following tradition from the holy book while other practices can be described as theatrical and definitely a great portrayal of the Filipino’s version of devotion.
When you can hardly control anything in the world and everything is at a standstill, being able to create your sanctuary is a blessing. No one knows how long we have to take extra precautions to be safe- it's anyone's guess! What helped was focusing my efforts on things I can control.
To say that Filipinos take the holidays seriously would be an understatement. Let me paint you a picture: news channels display a countdown to Christmas and Filipinos start decorating their homes for the holidays starting from September! Some malls would also start playing Christmas songs and decorate! Yes, you read that right. Two months before Halloween and three months before the first snowfall here in Canada, Filipinos spend four months getting ready for “the most wonderful time of the year!”
Living in Toronto, you not only can see how multicultural the city is- you can taste it too! With all the amount of various foods that originated from different parts of the world, not only is there quantity but quality too. It’s one of my favorite things when it comes to living in the big city! Nevertheless, when it comes to comfort food, I find myself yearning for foods that remind me of home. There are some things that Toronto cannot replicate- especially when it comes to food.
You’re preparing to add a more rustic and earthy design to your home. Then you go shopping online and find the wooden products you want. You order,...
Living in the twilight zone - a mix of both worlds - was and is difficult. My family could not understand some of my beliefs and some of my friends could not relate to why I cared to cater to what my family thought. Although I am surrounded by other immigrants who face the same difficulties of immigrating and growing up in a country with a different set of ideals compared to the country we were born into, I realize it is up to the individual to seek their balance between the two worlds and create their own.
