23# Learn to Swim - Dubai (On Going!)

Swimming is one of my life's frustration. I took a swimming lesson one summer when I was a kid, but unfortunately I wasn't able to learn everything when summer ended. I have a talent in holding my breath so I was able to "graduate" when I dived in the pool and crossed the finish line. 

It wasn't until my roommate in Dubai encouraged me to join her swimming lessons at Al Nasr Leisureland when I realized that I need to do this for myself.

On my first day, my first exercise is bubbles with the kids - and the rest is history. Though I learned freestyle, breaststroke & backstroke - I can't truly say I've learned swimming until  I finally learn to tread on water for a long time. The kind of treading were I can do #54 (Jump from a yacht/boat to the open sea without a life vest) on my bucket list.

    Al Nasr Leisureland Swimming Class of 2009.

Swimming practices in Etisalat Academy Dubai.

16# Ride on a Hot Air Balloon - Dubai

Celebrating our 6th year Anniversary (dating) - Hot Air Balloon Style!

     Our group picture taken by a remote control camera hanging on a rope. 

While the crew was inflating the hot air balloon, they divided the 22 passengers into 4 groups according to our weight to balance the load of the wicker basket.

 

As soon as the hot air balloon was inflated, the crew instructed us to jump inside the basket.

    The first hot air balloon that launched off before us.

   The second hot air ballon to take off.

     Sunrise while up up and away. Thank God for moments like this.

    Inside the envelope.

    Special thanks to our pilot for keeping us safe.

15# Learn to play Billiards - Abu Dhabi (On Going!)

My two attempts to learn the game. 

After all the angle and collision lessons in my "first" try in Marina Mall, it seems like I'm back in square one when I try to play billiards again at Aloft Hotel. This challenge is still in my bucket list until I truly learn it and manage to win a game. 

    Billiard hall in Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi.

    Billiards 101 at Aloft Hotel, Abu Dhabi.

9# Attend a Costume Party - Luau Party

The best wedding I've ever attended is no other than my dear friends - Nine & Pao's wedding. It was a solemn and simple wedding celebrated with the couple's closest family and friends. 

   With the lovely couple Nineveh & Paolo.

   Catching-up with the girls at our beach mat.

   The wedding reception.

    Great company and music.

9# Attend a Costume Party - 80's Bridal Shower

When I was still based in Dubai back in 2009, we usually have our Bible study every wednesday night. Just imagine my reaction when my dear friends surprised me with my very own bridal shower!

    Niney all the way from Abu Dhabi.

   My BAGETS friends who prepared this awesome party!

    80's wouldn't be 80's without some New Wave dance moves.

4# Fly a Kite - Heritage Park, Abu Dhabi

We were attending a friend's birthday party at Heritage Park when a vendor approached us selling a kite for 10AED. I was imagining that I'll get to fly a kite on the beach at first, but this is an opportunity that I just could not miss.

    My first attempt to fly a kite.

     Preparing for the nth time.

    4# Fly a Kite.

   Fly a kite 101 lessons with Zardo.

2# Go Camping - Dubai, UAE & Anawangin, Zambales

Camping at Hatta - Oman Road

   Desert safari camping organized by Filipino 4x4 Association.

   Sunrise in the desert.

    Middle of nowhere.

Camping at Anawangin, Zambales

   Bonfire while having dinner.

   Breakfast and morning conversations with friends.

   Alps, Anawangin =)