Maia Jose's Cafe Romanza

Earn Online for Your Sweetie at Paydotcom

2008-03-22T16:45:00.004+08:00

So you want to save up for that special gift you want to give your sweetie? Step up your earning program by joining Paydotcom.

Paydotcom is my recommended alternative to Clickbank, especially for countries like the Philippines which seems to be discriminated against by the latter. Well, we no longer have to wait and feel left out. We can start earning from Paydotcom!

Join Paydotcom for free and promote its many products as an affiliate.You can use your blog, your website, your email (but don't spam!) or even your family members' blogs, with their permission, of course. You will receive your earnings through Paypal or by check.

Paypal is already available in the Philippines and you can sign up for a free personal account. You can also get a very affordable Paypal Merchant Account if you want to sell something from your site.

So check out Paydotcom right now!

You may also want to check out the following income earning opportunity:

Meet New Friends & Earn at Yuwie

2008-03-13T01:50:00.002+08:00

So you enjoy meeting people and making new friends? You can do this and earn, too, at Yuwie!

I suppose you're familiar with Friendster, Multiply, MySpace and all other social networking sites. You're probably active in one or more of them. Unless you have an online store at Multiply, though, you're not earning anything from all the time you spend at these sites.

How about if I tell you that Yuwie offers all the fun that those sites offer and pays you for joining? Yes, you don't shell out anything. You just register at Yuwie for free, set up your page, get a blog - which you may or may not use - and you get paid for every page view your page gets, including your own visits!

When you invite others to join Yuwie, you earn even more because you get paid for the page views of your referrals, as well, up to ten levels down.

I joined Yuwie sometime in February. Since earnings are calculated at the end of the month, I got one cent. I was already ecstatic because I didn't do anything yet except join and write about it in one or two of my other blogs. I only had 184 page views.

I knew I was on to something, though, because that was also how I started in Adsense - with cents. Eventually, they built up to paychecks.

The multiplier effect of Yuwie has already been working for me. Since that one cent at the end of February, I have gained 16 people downline: 4 at level 1, 6 at level 2 and 6 at level 3. That means the four people who signed up under me now have six people under them who, in turn, signed up six people, too.

In that time, my page only had 105 page views. I already have 4,608 page views combined from my downline's pages, though, and will be earning from them, too. Great huh?

Just think of how much visiting is being done in social networking sites. Now imagine if you can plug into that and earn from it.

It's so easy. Just register at Yuwie and write about it at your blog. Don't forget to use your referral URL in your link! Add it in your email signature. That will start your ball rolling.

And then you can just relax and enjoy Yuwie as a social networking site. You never know who you're going to meet there!

Good luck!!!

Writing Filipino Romance Novels: A Video Interview

2008-03-06T17:41:00.000+08:00

Two high seniors from the Ateneo de Manila asked for an interview for their English class project, S.O.F.A. or Spotlight on Filipino Authors. You can watch the video at maiajose.multiply.com.

I am always glad to speak on popular media in general and the writing of Filipino romance novels in particular, especially to students. I was sure that Jules and Carl were clueless on the kind of novels I write. They are, after all, teenaged boys who wouldn't be caught dead with any romance novel, Filipino or otherwise. I believe, though, that I was able to at least give them a peek into how Filipino romance novels can be a medium for quality entertainment that contributes positively to the readers' lives.

The video also reminded me that it's time for a serious diet and exercise regimen :-D

Happy Holidays

2007-12-25T13:11:00.001+08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE!!! :D

Neil Gaiman in A Real Life Romance

2007-12-01T12:45:00.000+08:00

Yes, Neil Gaiman was in Manila in November and no, I don't have a pic with my favorite speculative fiction author but I have the next best thing - that's my eldest daughter in the pic with him, and she got a real hug, too. She was a student observer at the Ad Congress in Subic where he was a speaker and she lined up again for his reading and book signing the following day.

And what romance am I talking about? Well, I heard it from Mr. Gaiman himself when the entire family trooped to see him at Fully Booked at Bonifacio High Street where he awarded the winners to the 2nd Philippine Graphic/Fiction Awards (cash prizes from Neil Gaiman's own pockets!). He said the strangest thing that happened to him in Subic was when he helped someone propose marriage to his girlfriend right there at the book signing. Can you imagine being such a Neil Gaiman fan and then having Neil Gaiman himself write in your book: "(your name), will you marry (your boyfriend's name)"? I would have fainted on the spot!!! But that's exactly what Mr. Gaiman did for Jason and Maui. And Neil himself wrote in his blog that it was the best part of his Philippine trip! Aw, I told you he was a romantic. I knew it ever since I read Stardust many, many years ago. And I continue to find romance in many of his work.

I'm still giddy from having been in the presence of THE Neil Gaiman. But like he said in his blog, back to work. I now have to translate the inspiration into my own stories. After all, he wrote in our copy of Fragile Things:

For the San Diegos - Keep writing! Keep making stuff up!

And he drew a heart! Awwww...

Read My Romance Novel, Bukal Sa Dibdib, For Free Online

2007-10-01T22:37:00.000+08:00

It was good to see an article on my breastfeeding advocacy romance novel, Bukal Sa Dibdib, in the Philippine Daily Inquirer last Saturday.

I also received good news that it is now in its second printing in pocketbook format. Commissioned by the Philippine Department of Health, the World Health Organization and the United Nations Fund for Population Activities, the novel is still being distributed for free in Philippine communities. I hope that they continue reprinting until all communities are saturated nationwide and that all who read it will feel the importance of breastfeeding not only for mother and child but for entire families.

Even more good news. You can now read Bukal Sa Dibdib for free online. So what are you waiting for? :D

Filipino Romance Novel Advocating Breastfeeding Distributed by WHO and Philippine DOH

2007-09-22T12:41:00.000+08:00

I am thrilled that my novel, "Bukal Sa Dibdib", sponsored by the Philippine Department of Health, the World Health Organization and the United Nations Fund for Population Activities, has already been printed and is now being distributed for free in communities.

There are already a lot of materials on the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding up to six months and tips on how to successfully breastfeed. The novel is not a manual or a brochure. It is, rather, a love story that highlights how breastfeeding is a beautiful part of parenting and family life, and how it further strengthens the bond between couples. I'm hoping that the emotional impact of the novel on readers will help raise awareness on how breastfeeding is such a miraculous gift that no one should ever refuse or take for granted.

See You at the 28th Manila International Book Fair

2007-08-30T10:35:00.000+08:00

Avid readers of romance novels and other genres will surely troop to the 28th International Manila Book Fair at the World Trade Center at Roxas Boulevard until September 2.

I'd like to invite you, as well, to join us for a discussion on Ang Bagong Panitikan (New and Emergent Literatures) on Sept. 2 at 2:15 pm, Function Room B.

The forum is organized by Read or Die - "a group of book lovers and readers whose goal is to help invigorate book reading culture in the Philippines through monthly discussions, sponsored talks on reading and literature, establishing social networks with other like-minded organizations, and the advocacy of programs specifically aimed towards promoting literacy and maintaining a high profile for reading for purpose and for pleasure." They "encourage public interest in and and appreciation for different kinds of literature, especially writing produced by Filipino authors."

I will be discussing Filipino romance novels, joining fellow writers in the panel: Eugene Evasco on Filipino children's literature, Carla M. Pacis on Filipino young adult fiction, Winton Lou Ynion on Filipino literature in the vernacular, Randy Valiente on komiks, and Glady E. Gimena - a very good friend of mine - also on Filipino romance novels. I expect it to be a fun session.

Visit Read or Die's special website - Ang Bagong Libro - covering its extensive participation in the 28th Manila International Book Fair and check out their various activities and skeds to further enrich your Book Fair experience.

Mermaid's Song Erratum

2007-08-30T10:06:00.000+08:00

I just discovered that I had inadvertently left out a segment from Mermaid's Song, the free Filipino fantasy romance novel I posted here. Missing was Chapter 9.2. I also discovered that the link at the top of the page that was supposed to show all posts labeled as Mermaid's Song does not show all those posts. I am so sorry to everyone I inconvenienced.

I have now fixed the link at the top of the page. It leads to Chapter 1.1. Each segment then contains a link list to all other segments.

Here are the links to all the Mermaid's Song segments. I incorporated Chapter 9.2 in the page of Chapter 9.1.

Happy reading!

Chapter 1.1
Chapter 1.2
Chapter 1.3
Chapter 1.4
Chapter 1.5
Chapter 2.1
Chapter 2.2
Chapter 2.3
Chapter 2.4
Chapter 2.5
Chapter 3.1
Chapter 3.2
Chapter 3.3
Chapter 3.4
Chapter 4.1
Chapter 4.2
Chapter 4.3
Chapter 4.4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6.1
Chapter 6.2
Chapter 6.3
Chapter 6.4
Chapter 6.5
Chapter 7.1
Chapter 7.2
Chapter 7.3
Chapter 7.4
Chapter 8.1
Chapter 8.2
Chapter 8.3
Chapter 9.1/9.2
Chapter 9.3
Chapter 9.4
Chapter 10.1
Chapter 10.2
Chapter 10.3
Chapter 10.4

Awww...Another Inspirational Blogger Award

2007-07-24T23:50:00.000+08:00

Please let me thank Emmyrose of Just Let Go for giving me this Inspirational Blogger Award - my second.

She said:

"Maia Jose of Manila Mom: the first time she visited my blog and commented she accidentally typed a wrong name but I'm glad because she promised that she'll never forget my name again and she has been a regular reader and her comments never fails to make me smile. I have always wanted to be a writer but I don't really have that drive to pursue that dream but after meeting her, that dream of mine came alive and I started writing again, and maybe someday I will make the dream of writing and publishing my own book come true."

I decided to again put the award here at Cafe Romanza instead of at my Manila Mom blog because it was given to me for my romance writer persona. I am always honored when I am able to inspire others to actualize their love for writing and to go forward into having their work published. I hope to one day read your books, too, Emmyrose!

Actually, I believe that Emmyrose herself is more deserving of the award. The only reason I did not give it to her before was because she was my co-awardee when Sasha first gave me the award. Come to think of it - that shouldn't have stopped me from giving it to her again!

Emmyrose inspires me as she courageously faces Lupus - an invisible auto-immune disease. She writes to let people know about the disease and to encourage others who are also battling it. In fact, I was inspired enough to create my own blog about Chronic Headaches, Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome which I and two of my kids are trying to overcome.

So please do not begrudge me the honor of giving her the same award, too. This is not a matter of quid pro quo. This award is really merited.

I, therefore, give the Inspirational Blogger Award to:

Emmyrose and her newest blog about Lupus, Dancing With Butterflies

Sandy of Pinoynetwork Blog: As a Filipina in Canada, she steadfastly embodies the courage and determination of our countrymen in facing all challenges in order to build a new life in a new environment. Her PinoyNetwork.org aims to unite and inspire Filipinos in Canada and elsewhere around the world.

Novice Blogger of The Broken Bow: Read the reason for his blog title, it shows how he can get inspiration from misfortune. His latest post shows the same spirit, too.

Nicholas of Six Degrees of Inspiration Connected By Inspiration: The blog title itself says it all, and he lives up to it, too, by being able to inspire despite having just gone through a breakup.

KRG of FILAM Personal Finance: He has pulled himself up through many struggles and writes to share the lessons he has learned in life.

Once again, thanks to Christy of Writer's Reviews for creating these Blogger Awards.

Free Filipino Fantasy Romance Novel: Mermaid's Song Ch 10.4 (Conclusion)

2007-07-24T23:49:00.000+08:00

“SINUNDAN kita nang malaman kong pumalaot ka nang nag-iisa,” paliwanag ng matanda kay Gio. “Nag-alala ako sa binabalak mo. Mabuti na lang pala umabot pa ako.”

Pero may pangingilag ang tingin nito kay Marin.

“Galing ba siya sa isla?” tanong pa ni Lola Consing.

Si Marin na mismo ang sumagot. “Ako po ang anak nina Mario at Jesabella.”

Namilog ang mga mata ng matanda.

Itinuloy na ng dalaga ang pagpapaliwanag. Ayaw niyang ang matanda naman ang matakot.

“Huwag kayong mag-alala, ordinaryong tao na lang po ako ngayon. Pinili ko ang maging tulad ng aking ama, at ni Gio, para puwede akong mamuhay dito sa inyong mundo. Magmula sa pagtawid kong ito, wala na akong anumang katangian, kakayahan o kapangyarihan na wala rin sa sinumang tao. Magkakapareho na lang ho tayo.”

“Napakalaki ng isinuko mo, Marin,” sabi ni Gio na parang hindi makapaniwala.

“Handa ka rin namang tumawid sa kabila, hindi ba?” paalala niya rito. “Pero hindi pumayag ang matatanda sa isla. Kaya ako ang tumawid dito. Sabi mo nga, walang makakahadlang sa pag-ibig natin. Hindi mauulit sa atin ang naganap kina Ama’t Ina.”

Kinabig siya’t niyakap ni Gio.

Saka lang nagawang magsalita ni Lola Consing.

“Anak ka ni Mario pero hindi naman pupuwedeng tawagin kitang Lola, Marin. Para hindi magtaka ang mga tao, ako na lang ang tawagin mong Lola Consing. Tamang-tama ang dating mo. Dati, ako na ang huling miyembro ng ating pamilya. Ngayon, may kapamilya na uli ako. At may magmamana na ng ating kapirasong lupa sa tabingdagat.”

Tumatawang isinama nina Gio at Marin sa kanilang yakapan ang matanda.

Noon muling naranasan ni Marin ang umiyak kasabay ng pagtawa — mga luha ng kaligayahan. (WAKAS)

All Chapters:
Chapter 1.1
Chapter 1.2
Chapter 1.3
Chapter 1.4
Chapter 1.5
Chapter 2.1
Chapter 2.2
Chapter 2.3
Chapter 2.4
Chapter 2.5
Chapter 3.1
Chapter 3.2
Chapter 3.3
Chapter 3.4
Chapter 4.1
Chapter 4.2
Chapter 4.3
Chapter 4.4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6.1
Chapter 6.2
Chapter 6.3
Chapter 6.4
Chapter 6.5
Chapter 7.1
Chapter 7.2
Chapter 7.3
Chapter 7.4
Chapter 8.1
Chapter 8.2
Chapter 8.3
Chapter 9.1/9.2
Chapter 9.3
Chapter 9.4
Chapter 10.1
Chapter 10.2
Chapter 10.3
Chapter 10.4

The Best Compliment a Writer Can Get

2007-07-21T14:23:00.000+08:00

Sasha says: "Manila Mom is Maia Jose in Philippine romance novels, the one I’ve been reading and got me inspired to write my own novels."

Sasha awarded me the "Inspirational Blog Award" for the following reason:

"For inspiring me with your stories. She has been through a lot lately, her mom passing away after a long battle with sickness. But still, she came out stronger and her faith intact. She never forgets to inlcude me in her love tags and for that I am thankful. Everytime I see you visiting, I finish a chapter."

Thank you very, very much, Sashing! The best compliment a writer can get is when a reader gets inspired enough by her novels to want to write, too - and it's even more fulfilling when the reader does exactly that. This is why I will always want to promote my readers' novels when they become writers themselves.

I'm so proud of you! Now you really have to let me know the titles of your novels so I can go get my copies and promote them here, too!

Now I get to give five Inspirational Blogger Awards to five other deserving bloggers, as stated in the rules of the Blogger Awards created by Christy of Writer's Reviews.

This award is:

"For those bloggers who inspire others through their words and actions. With a positive attitude, and an uplifting spirit these bloggers make the blogosphere a better place, and encourage others to do the same. This award is for bloggers who rise up to set an example but continue to reach out and support others."

Opal of Vegan Momma: I am always inspired by her healthy vegan recipes and lifestyle. It's something I want to slowly ease into myself, if not completely then at least partially. (I know, it's not possible to be partially vegan - I just mean having vegan days at least.) Lately, I've been inspired by Opal's income generation through her blog, too.

Mec of Crazy, Happy Arevalos: Ah, another couple still crazy in love with each other. Looks like they'll still be crazy in love through chilbirth, child rearing and on to retirement. We need couples like this to prove to the world that, yes, true love exists and happy ever after doesn't just happen in fairy tales.

Gibo of Quick and Random: He writes about how his family faces the challenges of early intervention for autism with their son - handsome Roan. His blog is touching and heartwarming. He also writes about various social concerns.

Meeya of Confessions of a Domesticated Party Girl: This self-confessed stage mom blogs about their daily life with their daughter WonderNinna. This pretty, cuddly, lovable toddler will wow you with her IQ! How this mom further develops her daughter's awesome potential is very inspiring indeed.

Cynthia Blue of Luna Tail: Cynthia is battling Social Anxiety and General Anxiety and still finds time, energy and enough emotional resources to do collie rescue. Reading her blog inspires me to face my own health battles while remembering that it's not just all about me and that I will always have enough resources to reach out to others - both human and animals - if I want to.

Even just writing this post is inspiring :D

Free Filipino Fantasy Romance Novel: Mermaid's Song Ch 10.3

2007-07-21T14:00:00.000+08:00

(Note to Readers: This romance novel was not meant to be serialized. The daily installments are, therefore, not written like segments of a serialized novel. This work is also copyrighted and is meant to be read on this blog alone for your enjoyment. Please do not download and pass it around. Thank you so much. - Maia Jose, Cafe Romanza http://www.caferomanza.com/)

NAMAOS na si Gio. Wala pa ring nangyayari. Kaya’t gumawa siya ng mas mapangahas na hakbang. Tumalon siya’t sumisid sa dagat.

Iniisip niya, kung noon ay sinagip siya ni Marin, baka iyon lang din ang paraan para muli siya nitong lapitan.

Sumisid siyang hanggang sa pinakamalalim na kaya niyang abutin. Pagkatapos ay lumangoy siya nang palayo sa bangka. Bahala na kung saan siya hahantong, kung hanggang saan aabot ang kanyang hininga. Basta’t hindi siya titigil hangga’t kaya niya.

HANDA na si Marin kaya muling itinuon ng matatanda ang kanilang konsentrasyon sa salaming kristal. Iyon ang magiging gabay sa muling pagtatagpo ng magkatipan.

Pero hindi na nila nakita si Gio sa bangka. Nasa ilalim na ito ng dagat. Kinakapos na ng hininga.

“Gio!” sigaw ni Marin.

At nagtatatakbo na siya patungo sa dagat.

“Mag-iingat ka!” sigaw ni Jesabella. “Alalahanin mong nawawala na ang iyong mga dating kakayahan.”

“Basta’t patawirin ninyo ako para maabot ko siya,” hiling ng dalaga bago siya sumisid.

Sa kapangyarihan ng mga taga-isla ay naitawid nga si Marin sa kurtina ng oras at panahon. At sa pamamagitan ng sarili niyang determinasyon ay natagpuan niya si Gio sa ilalim ng dagat.

May natitira pa itong hininga nang madala niya sa itaas. Sabay silang suminghap.

“Gio!” tawag ni Marin nang parang mawawalan ng ulirat ang binata. “Gio, narito na ako!”

Pilit na nagmulat ito ng mga mata. At nang makita siya ay nagawa pang ngumiti.

“Marin, hindi mo nga ako natiis,” sabi nito sa nanghihinang tinig.

“Narito na nga ako,” sagot niya. “Pero, Gio, lakasan mo pa ang loob mo. Mag-ipon ka ng lakas. Malayo na ang iyong bangka. Naanod na. Kailangan natin iyong habulin. Nanghihina ka na.”

“Iuwi mo na lang ako sa isla,” sabi ng binata. “Alam ko nang may kapangyarihan kang kakaiba. Hindi iyon hadlang sa pag-ibig natin. Sasama ako sa iyo.”

Umiling si Marin.

“Hindi na puwede,” sagot niya. “Sarado na sa atin ang isla. Wala na rin akong kapangyarihan. Pinili kong maging ganap na tao, Gio. Tulad mo. Para makasama mo ako dito sa iyong mundo.”

Napakunot-noo ang binata.

“Tao?” ulit nito.

“Oo,” sabi ni Marin. “Ordinaryong tao na lang ako, tulad mo. At nanghihina na rin ako, tulad mo. Kaya mamaya na tayo mag-usap. Kailangan muna nating makaabot sa iyong bangka. Kung hindi ay pareho tayong mamamatay dito.”

Parang naalimpungatan si Gio.

“Halika,” sabi nito. “Languyin natin ang bangka.”

Nanibago nang lubusan si Marin. Nanghihina siya, naliliyo at parang naduduwal. Epekto marahil ng pagbabago ng kanyang pagkatao at ng kanyang pagtawid sa kurtina bilang tao. Hindi naman kasi niya nadama ang ganito sa mga dati niyang pagtawid.

Isa pa’y nabawasan nang malaki ang kanyang lakas at resistensiya sa paglangoy. Dati ay wala siyang kapaguran. Kaybilis pa niyang makarating sa kahit gaano kalalayong distansiya. Pero ngayon ay parang kaybigat ng katawan niya.

Malayo na rin naman ang kanilang narating nang tumigil muna sila. Kapwa nanlulupaypay na.

May nakita silang isa pang bangka na papalapit, nagmumula sa kabilang direksyon. Hindi de motor.

Kumaway si Gio.

“Tulong!” sigaw nito. “Tulungan n’yo kami.”

Bumilis ang paglapit sa kanila ng bangka.

Kahit painut-inot ay sinikap nila itong salubungin.

Halos wala nang ulirat si Marin nang maramdaman niyang inaalalayan siyang pasampa sa bangka.

Pero ganoon na lang ang kanyang tuwa nang ang nakita niyang tagapagligtas nila ay walang iba kundi si Lola Consing.

All Chapters:
Chapter 1.1
Chapter 1.2
Chapter 1.3
Chapter 1.4
Chapter 1.5
Chapter 2.1
Chapter 2.2
Chapter 2.3
Chapter 2.4
Chapter 2.5
Chapter 3.1
Chapter 3.2
Chapter 3.3
Chapter 3.4
Chapter 4.1
Chapter 4.2
Chapter 4.3
Chapter 4.4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6.1
Chapter 6.2
Chapter 6.3
Chapter 6.4
Chapter 6.5
Chapter 7.1
Chapter 7.2
Chapter 7.3
Chapter 7.4
Chapter 8.1
Chapter 8.2
Chapter 8.3
Chapter 9.1/9.2
Chapter 9.3
Chapter 9.4
Chapter 10.1
Chapter 10.2
Chapter 10.3
Chapter 10.4

Don't Let the Busy-ness of Daily Life Ruin Romance

2007-07-17T10:28:00.000+08:00

Married couples, especially with kids, are only all too familar with this - how the hectic pace of daily life can erase romance. It need not be so.

Sure, you're both exhausted and often irritable. Tempers flare at the smallest cause of friction. Or even worse, lack of time to unwind leads to indifference. No more talking other than coordinating schedules - who will pick up this child or that, who will do this chore or that.

If you allow this scenario to take over your marriage, you will find yourselves becoming strangers to each other. Yes, it may take years before you realize this but by then it may be too late.

How many retired couples find themselves having the luxury of being together the whole day only to realize that they couldn't think of anything to talk about? Or that they could no longer enjoy each other's company? They have grown too far apart through the years, only held together by the things-to-do for the kids and the household.

If you have married someone then you must have loved each other much - assuming, of course, that it's a love match. That love deserves to be protected and nurtured, not neglected and left to die.

It's not that difficult to keep romance and love alive and thriving. You don't have to abandon the things you need to do everyday, either. Simple eye contact with a meaningful smile that the two of you understand works wonders. A tight hug and a whispered endearment to go with the usual peck on the cheek before leaving the house will give both of you reason to smile for the rest of the day. A text message with a private joke. A short phone call or email. The point is to keep that intimate connection.

As the day unfolds, we each encounter moments we want to tell someone about. Reserve that for your spouse, and be involved in his/her accounts, as well. I read somewhere that one of the roles of a spouse is to bear witness to your partner's life - this covers his/her triumphs and disappointments, joys and sorrows. Share. Communicate.

We will always be busy, at least until retirement or even then. This does not mean there's no time or room for romance and love in every 24 hours. Let's make each day count.

Free Filipino Fantasy Romance Novel: Mermaid's Song Ch 10.2

2007-07-17T10:22:00.000+08:00

(Note to Readers: This romance novel was not meant to be serialized. The daily installments are, therefore, not written like segments of a serialized novel. This work is also copyrighted and is meant to be read on this blog alone for your enjoyment. Please do not download and pass it around. Thank you so much. - Maia Jose, Cafe Romanza http://www.caferomanza.com/)

MULING nakagitna si Marin sa sirkulo ng matatanda. Naninikluhod.

“Napatunayan na nating hindi siya natatakot sa atin. Kahit alam na niyang iba tayo sa kanila, nakahanda pa rin siyang bumalik dito. May pruweba na tayong hindi siya matutulad kay Ama. At sabi nga ninyo, tunay niya akong iniibig. Dahil sa pag-ibig na iyon kung kaya hindi siya nakalimot. Hindi natin kayang burahin ng paglimot ang tunay na pag-ibig. Kaya pakiusap, muli na natin siyang papasukin dito.”

“Alam mong hindi puwede,” iling ng pinakamatandang babae ng angkan. “Mangangahulugan iyon ng kanyang pagkamatay sa kanyang mundo. Hindi natin puwedeng gawin iyon. Isa iyong mabigat na kasalanan sa Maykapal.”

“Pero kung hindi natin siya pagbibigyan, baka iyon ang maging dahilan para matulad siya kay Ama,” katwiran ni Marin. “Si Ama ay nabaliw sa pangungulila’t pagsisisi. Maaari ring kahantungan iyon ni Gio dahil sa pag-ibig niya sa akin.”

“Sa bagay na iyon ay wala na tayong magagawa,” sagot ng pinakamatandang lalaki ng angkan. “Hindi na natin sakop ang kanyang damdamin.”

“Alam ko kung gaano ito kasakit para sa kanya dahil ganoon din ang nadarama ko,” panaghoy ni Marin.

“Ang nadarama mo ay puwede nating gawaan ng paraan,” sagot ng isang matandang babae. “Itatwa mo lang nang ganap ang iyong bahaging tao ay mawawala na ang nadarama mong sakit sa damdamin. Hihilom ang sugat. Hindi ka na magdurusa.”

Umiling si Marin.

“Hindi ang sarili kong pagdurusa ang nais kong ibsan kundi ang sa kanya,” paliwanag niya. “Tatanggapin ko kahit na madoble pa ang sakit na aking nadarama, huwag lang siyang mapahamak. Kaya hindi solusyon ang pagtatatwa ko sa aking bahaging tao.”

Pero may biglang kumislap sa isipan ni Marin.

“Sandali,” sabi niya. “Kung hindi ko siya maaaring papasukin uli dito, ako na lang ang tatawid sa kanyang mundo.”

“Hindi tayo pinapayagang mamalagi roon,” paalala ng isa pang matandang babae. “Kung anu-anong kumplikasyon nanaman ang idudulot niyan.”

“Bawal ako sa kanyang mundo sa kasalukuyan kong kalagayan,” sagot ni Marin. “Pero kung pipiliin kong maging ganap na tao, magkakapuwang ako roon.”

Napasinghap ang lahat.

“Alam mo ang katapat niyon,” paalala ng pinakamatandang lalaki ng angkan. “Mawawala ang lahat ng kakayahan mo bilang nilalang ng karagatan. At hindi ka na makakabalik dito sa isla. Mapupunta ka na sa kabila ng kurtina ng oras at panahon. Magiging ganap ka nang tao, na may mga katangian at kahinaang pantao. Maaaring masaktan, magkasakit, mamatay.”

“Alam ko,” panatag na sagot ni Marin.

Pero nilingon niya ang kanyang ina nang may lungkot sa kanyang mga mata.

“Mangungulila ako sa iyo, anak, sa habampanahon,” sabi ni Jesabella. “Pero hindi kita pipigilan. Alam kong umiibig ka. At makapangyarihan ang damdaming iyon. Maaaring ikamatay. Maaari ring makasagip ng buhay. At ang pinipili mo ay ang pagsagip sa buhay ng iyong iniibig. Inililigtas mo siya sa masaklap na kabiguan, matinding pagdurusa at posibleng kapahamakan para hindi siya matulad sa iyong ama. Magagawa mo ito dahil may bahagi ang iyong ama sa iyong kabuuan. Ang iyong bahaging tao. Sa gagawin mo, mabubuo ang sirkulo. Magiging sirkulo ng buhay. Nagpupugay ako sa iyo, anak.”

Tinakbo’t niyakap ni Marin si Jesabella.

“Maraming salamat, Ina,” pahikbing sabi niya. “Alam mong kahit magkalayo tayo, hinding-hindi kita malilimutan. Lagi kang mananatili sa aking puso. Isang kisapmata lang ang buhay ng tao kung ikukumpara sa pinagsamahan na natin. Hindi magtatagal at sasakabilang-buhay din ako. At kapag dumating ang pagkakataong pipiliin mo nang iwan itong buhay mo sa isla, magkikita rin tayo roon. Magkakasama sa walanghanggan.”

Noon din mismo ay sinimulan ang ritwal ng pagtatatwa ni Marin sa kanyang pagiging nilalang ng karagatan.

Inipon ang lahat ng taga-isla. Humarap doon ang dalaga.

“Mahal ko kayong lahat,” sabi niya. “Pero dumating na ang pagkakataon para sa aking pagpili. At tinatawag ako ng aking bahaging tao sa ngalan ng pag-ibig. Hindi ko matatalikuran ang tawag na iyon. Kaya’t lilisanin ko na ang Isla Tresor, at ang aking pagiging nilalang ng karagatan. Isinosoli ko, tigib ng pasasalamat, ang lahat ng kakayahan, kapangyarihan, pribilehiyo’t karapatan ng isang nilalang ng karagatan. At niyayakap ko nang ganap ang pagiging isang tao.”

Inulan si Marin ng mga talulot ng bulaklak.

All Chapters:
Chapter 1.1
Chapter 1.2
Chapter 1.3
Chapter 1.4
Chapter 1.5
Chapter 2.1
Chapter 2.2
Chapter 2.3
Chapter 2.4
Chapter 2.5
Chapter 3.1
Chapter 3.2
Chapter 3.3
Chapter 3.4
Chapter 4.1
Chapter 4.2
Chapter 4.3
Chapter 4.4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6.1
Chapter 6.2
Chapter 6.3
Chapter 6.4
Chapter 6.5
Chapter 7.1
Chapter 7.2
Chapter 7.3
Chapter 7.4
Chapter 8.1
Chapter 8.2
Chapter 8.3
Chapter 9.1/9.2
Chapter 9.3
Chapter 9.4
Chapter 10.1
Chapter 10.2
Chapter 10.3
Chapter 10.4

The Filipina Bride Overseas - Not Necessarily A Mail Order Bride

2007-07-09T13:46:00.000+08:00

What is a mail order bride?

The mail order bride practice is not as new as the internet. As early as the 18th century, men and women from various parts of the globe have been marrying through the system. In the olden days, women - mostly impoverished - would have their names listed in catalogues from which men who desired brides would choose. The women were then sent for to come to the groom's home to get married. In more modern days before the internet, there were pen pal catalogues.

It is true that many Filipinas have joined pen pal catalogues and the newer websites designed to foster global friendships and the development of romantic relationships. It is also true that quite a number of Filipinas do so in the hopes of marrying to improve their future financially. It's not a good reason to get married or even start a relationship, true - and these women often fall prey to websites who sell their names, addresses, personal info and photos in very undesirable terms, presenting them as sex objects, docile wives-to-be and desperate maidens waiting to be rescued from poverty. Just imagine the expectations of a man who chooses a future wife based on such recommendations. Imagine the married life that a mail order bride from such lists can look forward to.

Many Filipinas who join such websites have no idea about the risk they are taking. Many of them are very young, live sheltered lives in the provinces and have only heard stories of townmates who have gone abroad to marry and live a life of luxury. There is a real need to warn them of the danger they are putting themselves in.

On the other hand, not all Filipinas who desire non-Filipino husbands are mail order brides, nor do they want it for financial reasons. Geri wrote "Confessions of a Filipina Internet Bride" in her blog, Thoughts on Transitions.

Like Geri, there are Filipinas who know what they want in a husband and are willing to look for him online not as a mail order bride asking to be rescued from anything but as an empowered woman seeking to meet a man on equal terms.

Like Geri, these Filipinas are educated, well-informed, intelligent and discerning. They will not fall for just any online Romeo. They view the internet just as one of the many means to glean genuine character, and do not rely solely on internet communication, too.

The downside is that because of the proliferation of unscrupulous mail order bride and online dating sites, genuine global relationships are cast in a bad light and women like Geri often find themselves stigmatized.

Geri is lucky at not having met much of this kind of discrimination in her life in Chicago. Ironically, she says she has found more of "that guarded look and assumption that I was a mail order bride" from fellow Filipinos who are not married to non-Filipinos.

It is time that we put aside wrong assumptions, misconceptions and judgments.

The campaign to change the image of the Filipina online was never meant to put down Filipinas married to non-Filipinos, or Filipinas who have found real relationships through the internet.

It also does not mean that we see ourselves as "better than" fellow Filipinas who may be listed in dating sites. If anything else, I personally would only want to warn them of the risks involved if the sites they are listed in are of the unscrupulous type. Please be very careful in choosing the sites you join.

I am, however, unconditionally against websites portraying Filipinas as desperate brides-to-be seeking to be rescued from poverty via marriage to a foreigner. (Do not even consider here outright smut sites.) These websites blatantly exploit the vulnerability of the women they list and expose them to a marriage based on distorted values and expectations.

Hopefully, we can all maximize the internet also as a venue to confront these issues.

Free Filipino Fantasy Romance Novel: Mermaid's Song Ch 10.1

2007-07-09T13:00:00.000+08:00

Sick and Pampered

2007-07-05T19:07:00.000+08:00

I haven't been able to post these past days, friends, because I've been down with another episode of chronic headaches, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. That means feeling like you've got the worst kind of flu without the fever, and it lasts days. Argh!

I'm lucky that B is his usual sweet self and has been pampering me. A home massage from the hubby can really be oh-so-romantic, even if I reek of Efficascent Oil. (If you haven't heard of this Philippine staple, it smells like BenGay.) That he can still make amorous remarks despite that proves that it's true love, indeed ;D

Free Filipino Fantasy Romance Novel: Mermaid's Song Ch 9.4

2007-07-05T17:39:00.000+08:00

Sexy Filipinas - Including Sexy Filipina Moms - Stand Up and Be Counted

2007-06-27T14:44:00.000+08:00

A zealot attacked my friend, Sexy Mom, via an anonymous comment saying her moniker is a disgrace to all Filipinas. The same person sent practically the same message to the blogs of Sexy Mom's sons. He or she used different pseudonyms, among them, "decent mother." No blog or website was linked to any of the comments, just different email addresses that are so easy to set up and discard.

Here's the comment sent to Sexy Mom:

"You are a disgrace to the Filipino women. We have been trying to change the image of the Filipino women in the internet. Foreigners type “filipina” to search for women to have sex. The same kind of people (pedophiles and perverts) type “sexy mom” and it points to You . You are an embarassment to our country. Stop using SEXY MOM. Filipino mothers are loving caring mothers. Leave the SEX part in your bedroom . Mommy bloggers laugh behind your back because of your pseudonym. Filipino women are too polite to tell you to say that using sexy mom is killing the filipino women."

Sexy Mom's son, BA, replied in a post in his blog, also quoted in his mother's post. He narrated how he and his siblings themselves started the whole naming game by telling her she was "the sexiest mommy of all" whenever she would ask them if she was fat.

This story goes straight to every mother's heart. I'm sure you've heard the same from your kids. I do, almost everyday, and especially when they know my spirits are flagging or I feel blah! It doesn't matter what shape or size you really are. It just shows how much your children love you, and reflects how lovingly they have been raised, too. As I said in my comment to BA's post, how much more wholesome can you get?

The comment backfired. Dine - aka Sexy Mom - did not even have to say anything in self-defense. Blog readers of both BA's blog and her blog tore the comment's accusations to pieces. Of course, since there is nothing there that makes sense.

1. If perverts search "sexy mom" and find Dine's blog, The D Spot, then the blog itself will prove to them that a Sexy Filipina Mom is not necessarily a sordid purveyor of commercial sex. This particular one - Dine Racoma - is an intelligent articulate blogger who has raised seven equally intelligent and articulate children, and now has much to say about parenting, womanhood, blogging, and many other respectable subjects of interest. Therefore, Sexy Mom's having those keywords and hitting top places in those searches actually does the Filipina's image a lot of good!

2. "Filipino mothers are loving caring mothers." So true. But that does not mean they cannot be sexy loving, caring mothers. Those concepts are not mutually exclusive. "Sexy" is not necessarily a dirty word. Why can't a mother be a sensual person, too? Sex is also not a dirty word or a dirty deed. Everything is contextual. How sad for those people who still cling to old paradigms fearing and demonizing everything related to sex and the body.

3. "Mommy bloggers laugh behind your back because of your pseudonym." I'm a Mommy blogger and I laud Sexy Mom for being a woman fulfilled who continues to learn and grow with the world. I applaud her for being a woman confident enough to call herself sexy - as indeed she is, because a woman's intelligence, accomplishments, kindness, sincerity and warmth ARE sexy! Also a woman's being comfortable with all aspects of herself - intellectually, emotionally, spiritually and physically.

Bloggers ARE, indeed, laughing now. They are laughing at this person hiding behind the pseudonym "decent mother." There was nothing decent in what she had to say.

This incident led another Filipina Blogger Mom, Angelic Mom - or Noemi Dado - of Touched By An Angel, to call fellow bloggers' attention to reshaping the Filipina woman's image online.

She points us to the various efforts toward this goal, among them:

- Marc Macalua’s Filipina and Philippines SEO campaign where he suggests pasting the following links to your blogs:

Philippines
Filipina

so that a search for "Philippines" will show the Department of Tourism website while a search for "Filipina" will show the Gabriela website (Gabriela is a Philippine women's rights organization);

- "the US-based Filipina Women’s Network that seeks to find better ways to elevate the Filipina woman’s image and help them go the next level of leadership in their chosen field of endeavor..."; and

- the Fabulous Filipina Presence which "aims to interlink with as many other Filipina sites and also to use the devices of the Internet such as search engines to achieve online a higher quality and more complete picture of who Filipinas are."

Marc Macalua's efforts, begun in 2004, seems to have gained some momentum already. A search for "Philippines" now shows the Philippine Department of Tourism on top of the page and other respectable links on the rest of the first page. A search for "Filipina," however, still shows mostly matchmaking sites.

Fabulous Filipina Presence has the following proposal: Place the words "="filipina, filipinas, philippine women, philipina, pilipina, pinay, babae, filipino women, filipino woman" in the meta tags of your site homepage, blog, company/org site or personal pages, and in the many webpages that you manage.

I like this last suggestion. Not that I have anything against Gabriela. I respect and support the organization, and have myself been an activist in college. We wouldn't want Gabriela to stand alone in the search results surrounded by matchmaking sites, though. It would look like Filipinas are only either looking to get married to a foreigner, or are activists. And we know how some people have a kneejerk response against any form of activism.

Having a multitude of sites and blogs by Filipinas and on Filipinas - showing the variety of talented, intelligent, genuinely decent, progressive-minded women we have - would present a more realistic view of Filipina womanhood.

So let's all put in those keywords in our blogs: filipina, filipinas, philippine women, philipina, pilipina, pinay, babae, filipino women, filipino woman.

Hey, why not even add Sexy Filipina and, if it applies, Sexy Filipina Mom or Sexy Filipina Aunt or Sexy Filipina Grandma, and hopefully join the original Filipina Sexy Mom. Let the world know that Filipinas are, indeed, sexy and that being sexy does not necessarily have anything to do with sordid commercial sex.

Filipinas are sexy because we are strong, intelligent, capable, forward-thinking, courageous, confident, dignified, sincere, caring and loving. We know ourselves and are comfortable with ourselves.

So all you sexy Filipinas - sexy Filipina Moms included - please stand up and be counted!

Fellow bloggers who have posted on this, too:

Yes, Filipinas Are Sexy
A Closure, A New Beginning–Reshaping the Online and Sexy Filipina ...
Posting a comment is not enough…Blog about it!
Let's bring sexy and Filipina back
Filipina2007
The attack on Sexy Mom: False feminism, if there is such a thing (as feminism)
What Filipina Should Mean Online
My Sexy Mom
Who's Afraid of the Sexy Filipina?
Campaign Redefines the Sexy Filipina
I Am A Sexy Filipina Mom
Looking For Sexy Filipinas?
The Filipina Bride Overseas - Not Necessarily A Mail Order Bride

Free Filipino Fantasy Romance Novel: Mermaid's Song Ch 9.3

2007-06-27T14:39:00.001+08:00

(Note to Readers: This romance novel was not meant to be serialized. The daily installments are, therefore, not written like segments of a serialized novel. This work is also copyrighted and is meant to be read on this blog alone for your enjoyment. Please do not download and pass it around. Thank you so much. - Maia Jose, Cafe Romanza http://maiajoseromance.blogspot.com/)

PAGGISING ni Gio kinabukasan, sinabi sa kanya ng katiwala ng mga Madrigal na may matandang babaeng naghihintay sa kanya sa labas ng tarangkahan.

“Kaninang maagang-maaga pa iyan dumating, sir,” sabi ni Aling Monang. “Madilim-dilim pa. Kailangan ka raw makausap. Maghihintay daw siya kahit na anong oras ka magising. Hindi ko nga pinapasok kasi hindi ko naman alam kung kilala mo nga.”

Nang malaman niyang matanda ang kanyang bisita, agad itong nilabas ni Gio. Hindi naman niya ito nakilala.

“Ano ho iyon, Lola?” magalang pa rin niyang tanong.

“Ikaw iyong pumunta sa may amin kahapon, hindi ba?” ganting tanong ng matanda. “Ipinagtanong kita. Naghahanap ka raw ng mabibiling isla o lupain.”

Tumango si Gio. Naalala niya ang matandang babaeng dumungaw mula sa kubo.

“Ako nga ho at naghahanap nga ako ng mabibiling lupa,” sagot niya. “Bakit, inyo ba ang lupang iyon? Ibinebenta ba ninyo?”

“Sa amin nga iyon pero hindi ko ibinebenta,” sagot ng matanda. “Iba ang pakay ko sa iyo, Amang. Nalaman ko ring ikaw iyong naghahanap sa Isla Tresor. Ikaw iyong nagsasabing tumira ka sa Isla Tresor pero ang sabi naman ng mga kasamahan mo ay sasandali ka lang nawala sa kanilang paningin.”

Mas marahan na ang pagtango ni Gio.

“Ako nga ho iyon,” sagot niya.

“May ikukuwento ako sa iyo tungkol sa Isla Tresor, Amang,” pagpapatuloy ng matanda. “Pero ikaw lang ang puwedeng makaalam.”

Agad na nabuhay ang interes ni Gio.

“Doon ho tayo sa gazebo, Lola,” sabi niya. “Para magkasarilinan tayo.”

Nang makaupo sila sa lilim ng gazebo ay nagpakilala si Gio.

“Alam ko,” tango ng matanda. “Naipagtanong ko na rin ang pangalan mo. Ako si Consing.”

At nagsimulang magkuwento si Lola Consing.

“May ninuno akong nagkaroon ng karanasang katulad ng sa iyo, Gio,” sabi nito. “Mario ang pangalan ng ninuno kong iyon. Inabot daw ng bagyo sa laot. Akala nila’y nalunod na. Kinabukasan, inanod siyang pabalik sa dalampasigan, nakakapit sa patay na kahoy. Takot na takot.

“Ayon sa kanya, sinagip siya ng isang babaeng nagngangalang Jesebel at dinala sa Isla Tresor. Matagal daw siyang tumira roon. Napangasawa niya iyong si Jesebel. Pagkatapos, pagkaraan ng mahabang panahon, nalaman niyang maysa-engkanto pala iyong babae at iyong isla. Tumakas siya at pinalad na maanod nang pabalik dito.

“Lalo siyang nasindak nang sabihin sa kanya ng mga tao na wala pang beinte kuwatro oras siyang nawala.”

Napamaang si Gio.

“Jesebel...,” ulit niya. “Jesabella. Si Ina.”

Ang matanda naman ang napamaang sa kanya.

“Jesabella ho iyon, hindi Jesebel,” paglilinaw ni Gio. “Nakilala ko siya. Anak niya si Marin, ang babaeng sumagip sa akin at nagdala sa akin sa Isla Tresor.”

“Kung ganoon ay totoo nga,” singhap ng matanda.

“Totoo nga,” parang hindi makapaniwalang sang-ayon ni Gio. “Hindi halusinasyon lamang. Dahil paanong mangyayaring magkatulad na magkatulad ang halusinasyon ko at ng ninuno ninyo? Pati pangalan ng isla at pangalan n’ong babae, nagtutugma.”

“Pero, Gio, mahigit dalawandaang taon na ang lumilipas magmula noong mangyari iyon sa ninuno kong si Mario,” sabi ng matanda. “Isang kuwento lang iyon na nagpasalin-salin na sa aming angkan.”

Natigilan ang binata.

Hindi siya makapaniwalang mahigit dalawandaang taon na si Jesabella.

Pagkatapos, naalala niya ang hindi maipaliwanag na “pagkawala” ng malaking bahagi ng panahong kanyang naranasan.

“Baka...baka iba ang takbo ng panahon sa Isla Tresor,” sabi niya. “Kasi iyong nakilala kong si Jesabella, hindi pa aabot ng apatnapu’t taong gulang kung hitsura ang pagbabatayan. Pero baka siya rin si Jesebel. O maaaring ninuno niya si Jesebel. Ano’t ano man, maaaring maipaliwanag n’ong pag-iiba ng takbo ng oras sa isla ang pagkawala n’ong oras sa amin ng ninuno ninyong si Mario.”

“Kunsabagay, ganyan nga raw sa mga lugar ng mga engkanto,” sabi rin ng matanda. “Nag-iiba ang takbo ng oras at panahon kaysa sa atin.”

“Kaapu-apuhan na ho pala kayo ni Mario, kung ganoon,” sabi ni Gio.

“Hindi direktang apo,” sagot ng matanda. “Ang talagang pinaka-lolo ko ay kapatid niya. Hindi na kasi nag-asawa si Mario. Nasiraan daw ng bait at nagpakamatay. Ayon sa kuwento sa pamilya, dala iyon ng matinding pangungulila’t pagsisisi. Nang lumaon kasi, nawala na ang takot niya sa naganap sa kanya. Gusto na niyang balikan ang isla at ang asawa niyang si Jesebel. Pero hiyang-hiya rin daw sa sarili si Mario. Nagsisisi siya sa ginawa niyang pagtatatwa sa babaeng pinakamamahal niya.”

“Ang lungkot naman,” iling ni Gio. “Kawawang Mario.”

Pagkatapos, naisip ni Gio na kung naging asawa ni Mario si Jesebel, at si Jesebel ay si Jesabella, posible kayang anak ng dalawa si Marin? Kung ganoon nga ay mahigit dalawandaang taong gulang na rin si Marin.

Bakit hindi man lang iyon nakakaapekto sa kanyang damdamin para sa dalaga?

Napatunayan ni Gio, anuman ang madiskubre niyang katotohanan — maysa-engkanto man si Marin at gaano man ito katanda — ito pa rin ang babaeng kanyang iniibig.

All Chapters:
Chapter 1.1
Chapter 1.2
Chapter 1.3
Chapter 1.4
Chapter 1.5
Chapter 2.1
Chapter 2.2
Chapter 2.3
Chapter 2.4
Chapter 2.5
Chapter 3.1
Chapter 3.2
Chapter 3.3
Chapter 3.4
Chapter 4.1
Chapter 4.2
Chapter 4.3
Chapter 4.4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6.1
Chapter 6.2
Chapter 6.3
Chapter 6.4
Chapter 6.5
Chapter 7.1
Chapter 7.2
Chapter 7.3
Chapter 7.4
Chapter 8.1
Chapter 8.2
Chapter 8.3
Chapter 9.1/9.2
Chapter 9.3
Chapter 9.4
Chapter 10.1
Chapter 10.2
Chapter 10.3
Chapter 10.4