Walking through the fabled street Calle Crisologo that is, with its cobbled pavement , old looking ancestral houses with their windows adorned in capiz,whitewashed by time, horse carriages down to the vintage antiques which are displayed on every corner; felt like being displaced in another space and time. You've probably read these lines a few hundred times from travel blogs of the same theme yet I can write over and over again about how this Unesco World Heritage Site and one of 7 wonder cities in the world can transport you immediately back in time.
So on a breezy, lazy Monday morning, we strolled along Caller Crisologo. Being a touristy place, we braced ourselves for a crowd pushing their way to capture that perfect selfie or groufie in the middle of the street. Could be out of sheer luck or a blessing in disguise, it was almost empty. And I silently jumped with glee! Standing in the middle of Calle Crisologo is like seeing a postcard come alive.
Before Calle Crisologo became Calle Crisologo, it had its share of name changes. From Calle de Escolta De Vigan during the colonial era it shifted to Washington Street during Uncle Sam’s time. The Japanese, while they were able to invade the city, left the name as it was
We meandered aimlessly, taking photos and glaring at every wall, window and door. Everything was moving in slow motion as if time stood still and for a brief moment, I had wished we can stretch time to marvel at this historic site.
I loved the street even more at night. The cobbled street glistens with the reflection of the light coming from the streetlamps. I literally exclaimed, "Golden Hour". It was almost midnight and while my aching stomach craves for Vigan Empanada; I savor every second I have wandering along the old, historic and serene street of Calle Crisologo.
The decision to come to Vigan was a product of our spontaneity and done in a whim.I didn't have a planned itinerary nor done any form of research. Sometimes, you just have let the place surprise you. To let yourself be enthralled at the history and let it captivate your tastebuds and satisfy your appetite for cultural immersion. Calle Crisologo is indeed a street often visited by many, frequented by masses and adored by photo enthusiasts; but in the heart of Ilokanos, the street will always remind us of resiliency, having to withstand calamities and preserving a bit of our past for the future generation to see.
Xo,
Jhesy
Another year has ended and a new one begins. How did yours ring in? 2015 has turned out to be surprisingly good if not better than the previous one. What a year it has been! Truly, 2015 was a year of discoveries, overcoming fear and learning more about myself and the vast world around me.
I feel I have grown immensely in the most recent months, made several adult decisions, failed at some, yet stood right back up. I've met a lot of people who inspired me to discover more about my faith, passion and relationships. They say nothing happens by accident and I firmly believe that all of the events which occurred prior, no matter how challenging and at times hurtful they may be; they were tapestry of events that culminate in an exquisite, sublime plan, a life story authored by the Big Man up there. Everything seemed to have fallen into their rightful place and created a domino effect to lead me through each step towards happiness.
My biggest takeaway from last year is that you have control of over your life. Your happiness is always a personal choice and should not be dependent on anyone else. When you find your niche, even that little piece of joy, hold on to it. It all starts with attitude and keeping a positive perspective, doing things out of love and going through life in a constant forward movement.
So here we are, three days into the new year. I am grateful for the year that was. For days spent traversing on unknown paths and foreign lands. Embracing the culture and learning a thing or two from the people I met from each trip. For every shoreline, sunsets and sunrise sessions I've witnessed from the several beach escapades I have gone through. For opportunities given which helped me to grow by tenfold. I was given a chance to discover a different side of me, to blossom in my own right ( starting this blog ) and led me closer to God. For the priceless time spent with my family and friends, though miles apart; the distance ironically pulled us closer together.
I am casting my eyes further and looking ahead, praying fervently that 2016 will take me to new heights. I am excited to see how this year will turn out. First of is to take care of myself more by taking the time to eat healthy and try to at least exercise. I would like to be able to travel to places I've never been before. To finally learn that 3rd language with I failed to take on last year. I promised myself to brave on other things I long dreamed of and commit to writing more out of passion and heart. Do volunteer work and use whatever talent I have to participate in a ministry and serve. And lastly, if I'm brave enough, open myself to the possibility of allowing my heart to fall in love again.
Then again, life is all about taking risks, growing to be better, sowing seeds of love and kindness and taking the leap of faith. We should let go of our fears, aim/soar high and follow our bliss. Let us allow ourselves to fail, to be hurt, to face and overcome trials with a determined spirit, grace , strength and perseverance. Let's take on new adventures, fall more in love with life. Stay inspired and do more of what makes you happy.
Cheers to 2016 and don't quit that daydream.
