Long time ago, during the early Philippine History, there was a magnificent river that served as the center of economic activity as well as livelihood with its clear waters, abundance of fishes and a venue of trade and travel in the heart of the country’s most powerful city, Manila. Sadly, most millennials today, including me that was born in the late 80s, never got the chance to witness its glory. As the economy and industrialization progresses over time, the once clean and living river became polluted leading to its demise in 1990s leaving traces of rich history along its banks. How can the generation today appreciate its value? Why some groups like the Zoomanity Foundation still hoping that this nature treasure be revived and conserved?
Zooper Cruise offers a very unique experience under the Zoomanity Foundation with an aim to educate its participants about the rich history and beauty of Metro Manila through a journey along Pasig River via ferry boat cruise. Throughout the cruise were lots of trivia, activities and sumptuous snacks and dinner while seeing the historical edifices along the river’s banks providing more expanded consciousness to participate in the government and Zoomanity Foundation’s aim to conserve this heart of the city, to make it alive again for our generation as well as those generations to come. It is one of the newest projects of Zoomanity Foundation which comprises of four pillars: Education, Entertainment, Environmental Conservation and Exhibit.
Last March 4, 2017, I was one of those who were blessed to be invited for a Zooper Cruise experience. I could say that it was one of the most educational even I have attended. Most of us know how highly polluted the Pasig River is, so who wants to cruise along? After reviewing Zoomanity’s mission and vision, my interest was captured more because of my love for Manila and Philippine history, I knew the Pasig River has a lot to tell.
With the very accommodating Engr. Grace of Tag Media, co-blogger Nikko and my mother.
Arrived early at the ferry. Cozy ambiance.
The captain and owner of the ferry, Engr. Ed Bondad giving a talk.
Mr. Robert L. Yupangco, CEO of Yupangco Group of Companies.
Coast Guard Station Pureza
Escolta Station.
Plaza Mexico.
My fellow bloggers Nikko and Rhodora.
The meeting place was at the Valenzuela Ferry Station located in Makati and the starting point of the tour. Looking through the windows gave me a feel of amusement seeing less to no garbage and water lilies floating in the river area. I wonder how beautiful this river back to the Spanish Era. The hostesses of the cruise then introduced Engineer Ed Bondad, the captain and owner of the cozy air-conditioned ferry bus we are in. He gave us information about the brand new ferry boat that could cater almost 152 passengers and how ferries could serve as an alternative transport throughout Metro Manila. Thinking about keeping away from traffic on EDSA or Manila? Why not? Also, the captain of the boat taught us so many historical trivia as the ferry cruised to different boat stations, bridges and historical buildings. This event is a great way to know more about renaissance history of Metro Manila which could be promising if given attention by both local and foreign tourists. The CEO of Yupangco Group of Companies to where Zoomanity Foundation is included, Mr. Robert L. Yupangco also gave an encouraging speech for us to support the advocacy.
Post Office Main Building.
Our first significant landmark is in front of the Malacañang Palace, the
official residence of the President of our country. We were warned not to take
pictures for security. He mentioned some interesting stories about the
buildings that we passed by. Among these are the Polytechnic University of the
Philippines, St. Jude College and Parish, Hospicio de San Jose, old Department
of Budget and Management Building as well as the bridges like Ayala Bridge,
McArthur Bridge and Quezon Bridge. Did you know that the person who designed
the Quezon Bridge and Eifel Tower were the same? It was Gustav Eifel. The crew
and staff also let us experience the river in the outside balcony of the ferry
to take pictures and appreciate it even more as we approach the Escolta Station
in Binondo and tour the area.
Polland Hopia Factory.
Sta. Cruz Church.
The inside of Crown Prince Seafood Restaurant in Escolta.
Some of the foods served in Crown Prince Seafood Restaurant. The soup and the chicken dish were not included because I have no decent picture of the two.
Mr. Robert Yupangco, CEO of Yupangco Group with the cruise staff and crew ended the night in closing remarks.
Upon arriving at Polland Hopia Factory, a very good delicacy store in Escolta,
many of the tour participants fell in line to buy Chinese and Filipino food
delicacies specially their many flavored hopia. We then headed to the beautiful
and classy Sta. Cruz church to have brief prayers and respect. I was indeed
awed by the classic buildings in Escolta, the architectural designs were
timeless with the knowledge that this district was once the center of economy
and trade in the country. To top it all, dinner was served at Crown Prince
Seafood Restaurant with authentic and delicious Chinese Cuisine from appetizers
to desserts.
Heading
back to the ferry with smiling faces, we received an extended ice cream dessert
followed by a trivia contest. Prizes were given to those who can answer the
trivia questions correctly. Engineer Ed gave another speech about more learning
of how important is the role of Pasig River not just in the environment but for
the country’s economy and tourism. Zooper Cruise is a way to educate the
students as well as every one of us of to be aware and help conserve the Pasig
River and its huge contribution to Philippine history. Grateful guests gave
donations with a happy heart.
Some of those notable guests were former secretary of Tourism, Mr. Vince Carlos
and Presidential Appointee (Board of Directors) Mr. Ed Santos. The last remarks
were given by Mr. Robert Yupangco himself thanking everyone with encouragement
to support Zooper Cruise for the Pasig River. Along with Engineer Ed and the
crew volunteers, the night ended in good spirits in everyone.
Attending such event served as an eye opener for us to value mother nature, to conserve
and try to revive the treasure we once had as well as to appreciate the history
behind. This cruise is recommended for the youth to engage in to develop their
awareness of the advocacies.
I would like to thank Zoomanity Group and Tag Media for the amazing experience.
For more details and inquiries, you can contact Tag Media, the public relations
of Zoomanity Group at (02) 899-9819/ 899-9824/0917-9521371 or at their website www.zoomanity.com.ph.
For events and services, send inquiry to Ms. Grace Nicolas through her E-Mail: grace@tagmedia.asia
or call 09166299381.
In the mountainous ranges of
Central Cordillera enclosed by the province of Benguet lies a city of rich
history, culture and tourism – Baguio City. The Philippines is a tropical
country so it means that at times, the weather is mostly hot in the summer
season that tourists, local and foreign seek relaxation, leisure as well as
learning in this gem city in the central north of the country. Its subtropical
highland climate attracts visitors providing relief from the heat of the
lowlands having officially named as the Summer Capital of the Philippines since
the American Colonial Era. The city got its name from native Ibaloy’s word
“bagyiw” means moss because the area has a lot of the kind of plant in the
area. When the American came, they changed the face of the city to what we are
enjoying today constructing bridges, buildings and landmarks reflecting
history. Then came World War II to the earthquake in 1990, Baguio City is
indeed a truly gifted precious land.
Mines View Park.
Mines View.
You may have a hard time finding a place to stay during peak season but booking sites like Traveloka.comallow you to compare prices and check out deals in advance. Also, if you are a shopper who wants to find product sales much cheaper than those in the lowlands, you can buy many products from fresh vegetables, fruits, jams to bargain items like those in the night market in Burnham Park. Food lovers also visit Baguio City to find the numerous specialty restaurants, mouth-watering street foods and sweets. I personally liked the organic strawberry ice cream and taho which is very uncommon in the lowlands. Even those who want a break from the city would find it the perfect place to be, with the many hotels, inns, and guesthouses in Baguio that cater to various kinds of travelers.
Baguio City boasts flower industry like no other city or province in the country.
How to get into Baguio City from Metro Manila?
The average travel time to Baguio
City from Manila is 4 hours and 6 minutes with the distance of 247 Kilometers.
There are two ways of travel.
With
your own vehicle: You
can through NLEX (North Luzon Expressway) then take exit 85 into SCTEX
(Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway)
to take the lane and to Baguio via Tarlac. Just follow the road signs until you
reach MacArthur Highway. Drive straight to Pangasinan, La Union then when you reached Rosario junction, turn right Kennon Road. There is also an alternate
road in Marcos Highway, just drive into Rosario to the right entrance.
On
Public Transport:The
two main bus company that offer trip to Baguio City are Victory Liner and
Genesis Transport. Victory Liner usually offers express trips. Their buses were
equipped with free Wi-Fi connection and comfort rooms. Genesis Liner on the
other hand provides travel time for 6-8 hours depending on the hour of your
trip.
Exploring Baguio City would not
be complete without planning where to stay. I suggest that you do a research
about the types of accommodations based on your preference in consideration to
your budget and comfort. In our last visit to Baguio City, we stayed in a
friend’s house near the Burnham Park making us have easy access to the places
we want to visit to taxi cabs. Transportation rates in the city are slightly
cheaper than in Manila. For the budget conscious, you can look for cheap decent
inns and rooms with breakfast included. Pension houses accommodate guests in
house type rentals, they serve full day meals. Hotels were in various kinds
ranging from those simple and neat to deluxe for those who prepared ample
amount in their budget.
A view from the balcony of SM Baguio.
What are the most popular sites and tourist spots in Baguio City that
you should explore?
The city of Pines is a land where
history, nature and art meet. There are historical sites like The Mansion and Camp John Hay that could bring us back in time and learn about the
important events in the Philippines the time they were built. Leisure parks
like the very famous Burnham Park
where you could ride the large swan boats in the lake, sit down in grass to
have a picnic and indulge in street foods. There is also the equally precious Mines View Park overlooking the majestic
mining town of Itogon in the northern part of the city. Last time we visited,
there were influx of tourists but I could say that the view is very worth the
visit. I love the colors of the variety of flowers being sold everywhere. The Baguio Botanical Garden exhibits charming
flowering plants good for those who want to have ample of OOTD pictures the
nature way. Not so far in the area is the Wright
Park. This park in just in front of The
Mansion with a rectangular pool sided by pine trees in the sides is seen in
the area. It is where we bought the very unique strawberry taho (soft tofu) being sold by street vendors. For
shoppers, the Session Road comprises
of restaurants, boutiques, bookstores, department stores and bazaars. If
planning to visit Baguio City through Kennon
Road, you will see beautiful mountainous scenic views of trees for a good
sightseeing. The premier military institution in the country, the Philippine MilitaryAcademy is one of the most visited and photographed sites with all
its Pine trees, glorious statues, old military structures and vehicles plus the
smile of handsome soldiers and military students roving around.
My favorite Strawberry Taho.
Wright Park.
With the natives.
Baguio Botanical Garden.
The Mansion.
Philippine Military Academy.
There are still so much to visit
in Baguio City that I haven’t visited yet and mentioned in this article. For
sure, they are worthy to be explored soon.
Working here in the Middle East for more than three years
have made me accustomed to their culture including their foods. Arabian foods
usually have strong flavors because they always contain herbs and spices. My favourite
is the Falafel wrap. It consists of hummus falafel, beets, tomatoes and eggs.
The flavor is very tasty without meat. It is satisfying and handy for instant
an instant meal or snack.
The Falafel wrap is healthy due to its ingredients
containing mainly of vegetables. It is also good for the health conscious
people who patronize vegetables or meat alternatives. The ones commonly
included in the recipe are tomatoes, onions and beets. For the hummus, there
are chickpeas, garlic, olive oil, parsley and coriander. The spices are mostly
salt and pepper. It also contains eggs making it a good source of protein and
energy.
For those living or working in the Middle East, specifically
in Saudi Arabia, there is Falafel Arafa, the store where we used to buy this
food. It has branches in Unaiza Al Qassim and Al-Malaz Riyadh. They can also offer
orders by delivery.
They say it is better to give than to receive. True enough,
hence receiving a gift even a simple little something is a joy to the heart. It
is not about how expensive or huge the thing is but the value and happy
memories with it.
Years ago, I was frustrated to receive a teddy bear gift.
Yes, it sounds shallow to hear from me that I haven’t received a stuffed bear
gift all my life, so awful. When I was a child, my parents used to buy me dolls
and art materials until I became an adult then realized that I never had a
teddy bear gift all my life. This situation made we wish that my future lover
should give me one. Unluckily, I am still single.
Last 2012, my friend Karen gave me a small dark brown bear
due to my insistent demand, never would I expect to receive one. Although it is
small and I know it is not that super fancy, I know it was given from the heart
making it priceless in my eyes. My crush back then looked chubby and tall,
looking like one, I texted him for some name suggestions. He jokingly suggested
the name “Bogart”. From that day of naming him, I had Bogart as my companion in
the remaining months of my stay in the Philippines then also brought him with
me here in the Middle East where I have been working for more than three years.
He is now inside my Balikbayan box on the way to the Philippines for I will go
home in my country in a few months. There were a lot of memories I had with
that little stuffed bear. Whenever I go to places, never would I forget to take
pictures of him.
My new little bear is named Eden. She is named after my
friend who gave her to me. Weeks ago, I
and my friends went into a thrift shop where all the prices of goods were the
same. Everything could be bought from cooking wares, clothes, accessories and
toys. I saw a cute bunch of small teddy bears in a corner. I then teased my
friend, Eden to buy me one as a remembrance since I am going back to the
Philippines early next year. After some endearments, she told me to choose one
because she already agreed to buy one for me. I felt thrilled as a child. We
went back home with my new little creamy white bear in my arms. Sounds childish
but I really have this unique regression in teddy bears and now extra happy
that I have a new one.
This act of giving something even though simple can make us
smile. We will feel a surge of affection to the giver. A small token of
appreciation will not only make the receiver know that he is remembered but
also make someone’s day bright and could take the sadness away.
Here are the effects of receiving something from someone:
A Sense of Appreciation: Receiving a small Thank You Card
with home baked goodies from someone you helped out to make some chores gives a
feeling that he appreciates the good deed you have done. To feel appreciated is
very rewarding and fulfilling.
Takes your Sadness Away: When you are having a bad day with
sad emotions, receiving flowers with a thoughtful note to cheer you up could
make you smile, chances are this thoughtful act could lessen if not forget your
sorrows away and there are people supporting you in what you are going through.
Open your Mind on Situations: A simple stuffed animal with a
letter saying that you are sorry might lighten your resentment or ill-will on
someone you are not in good terms with. However, it would still depend on your
readiness.
A Feeling that you are loved: When a boy likes a girl, it is
indeed pleasant for her to receive some surprises like roses and teddy bears. Sounds
common but it is a nice feeling for her to feel showered with love through this
kind of effort. Some may be skeptical about receiving material gifts but
somehow this is one of the best ways to make someone that he/she is valued.
Receiving a something from someone does not mean that things
have a price or there is a requirement to receive something in return. It is
not the quality or expensiveness that matters but the thoughts we give with it.
How about you? What is the best gift you have received from
someone so far?
Herbal tea infusions in instant tea drinks are now becoming
popular as companies produce products with other herbs as an addition.
Yesterday, I just tried Lipton’s Camomile Herbal Infusion Tea. It comes in a
box with 20 sachets inside. After infusing it in warm water, it yields a light
yellow color and a fragrant calming smell. The essence of Camomile dominated
its taste giving a calming effect on the senses.
Camomile infusion tea is good for those with tired mind or
after having a stressful day because the aroma and the taste could help you
relax. Camomile plant is beneficial in inducing sleep so as for the skin. In
the nutritional information found in the packaging, a 100ml of Lipton Herbal
Infusion Camomile gives 4KJ/ 1kcal, less than 0.5 Protein, Carbohydrates and
Sugars. It contains 0g of Fat so it is good for people who want to lose weight.
TV NETWORK: Seoul Broadcasting System (SBS), South Korea
DIRECTOR: Oh-Choon-Hwan
WRITER: Ha-Myung-Hee
MAIN CAST:
Kim-Rae-Won as Hong-Ji-Hong
Park-Shin-Hye as Yoo-Hye -Jung
Lee-Sung-Kyung as Jin-Seo-woo
Yoon-Gyun-Sang as Jung-Yoon-Do
SYNOPSIS:
The story is about a girl named Yoo-Hye-Jung (Park-Shin-Hye)
who experienced family hardships in her youth, the impact it made in her facing her past issues about forgiveness, falling in love, letting go and healing. In becoming a doctor, her life revolves in treating her patients as well as interacting with her colleagues; the different kinds of lives Doctors are facing.
ABOUT THE ACTORS:
Korean drama fans all over the globe know that this drama
combined two of the most popular celebrities in South Korea. Having
Park-Shin-Hye, one of the highest paid actresses of her generation and
Kim-Rae-Won, the country’s prime drama heartrob in the 2000s; gives anticipation
to their K-Drama that this drama will soar high with their superb acting skills
and superstardom.
Actress Park-Shin-Hye portrays a teenage gangster who has
issues surviving life’s adversities, found refuge in her grandmother, admired
her high school teacher then turned into a successful neurosurgeon. This role
embarked new heights for the fans as she has moved into maturity in her role
from sweet teeny bopper flicks in the past. With her pretty looks plus a hard side
in Hye-Jung’s character, viewers will surely sympathize. The character’s
metamorphosis from a being a rebellious youth to a strong doctor transitioned gorgeously.
Though seen as quarrelsome with fight scenes, her charming looks still
penetrated the scenes. Her portrayal as an adult neurosurgeon older than her age showing strong will and confidence is remarkable.
The male lead, actor Kim-Rae-Won who play Hye-Jung’s high
school teacher, Ji-Hong not only added star power to the tandem, he had a lot
of contribution to the romance aspect of the story, and he supported his female
lead effectively providing balance in
the development of their roles as the story progresses. Knowing that it would
be a Shin-Hye, Rae-Won tandem before watching made a lot of Korean drama
enthusiasts curious on how the two leads would produce effective romance feels
in spite of their age gap. There is this masculine aura in Rae-Won that spices
up the scenes like whenever they had a kissing scene. An icon of his
generation, age does not seem to be a hindrance for pairing him with a much
younger female lead.
Both of their acting is natural and effective.
About the Story:
These are the central themes in which the story revolves:
FORGIVENESS: The characters’ past are complicated due to
pain imparted by close people in their lives. Forgiving themselves to forgive
others is taught and the struggles they went through to overcome the pain.
LOVE: Loving someone in spite of age, sacrificing for
someone you love, how it could make you healed and happy in the end.
FAMILY: Each character does have a messed up life. Having a
support figures in their lives paved way for their growth as a person. They
have been a big part of what the characters have become. They are the ones who
inspired them but there are also who gave them pain.
MEDICINE: Viewers could learn how hard it is to be a doctor,
how they handle medical situations to save lives. I really commend those
operating room surgery scenes, Korean’s are so meticulous in their dramas that
watching will make you feel that they are really operating in a true surgery room. They
also have focus on the patients’ lives in spotlight and most of them made
me cry.
The series is a good watch not only for its romance theme
but those who loves watching medical related dramas. Its combined themes could give so much moral lessons about life, love and
letting go of hatred and pain. There also are light scenes that could make you
smile. It is worth giving a try not only for Korean drama fans.
Waterfalls are one of Mother Nature’s priceless wonders and
the Philippines have the pride to possess abundance that many wanderlusts aim to
explore. One of them is Sagada, Mountain Province’s wonder, the endearing big
200 meters Bomod-Ok Falls. Also known as Fidelisan Falls named after the
Barangay’s name where it is located. It has been famous as one of the important
scenic geographical landmark you should visit when you explore the province.
Before our adventure, some of my friends who already went
there told me to be prepared for the journey because going down trekking from
the jump point will require extra physical strength plus determination for
walking in approximately one hour along the narrow roads, rocks, man-made
stairs, rice fields and the small village. The Falls is estimated 5 Kilometers away from the Tourism Registration Center.
To Bomod-Ok Falls.
Posing with our walking sticks.
HOW TO GO TO BOMOD-OK FALLS?
From the town center where the Sagada Municipal Hall is
situated, we rented a van that would take us to Barangay Banga-An. We just
paid 200PhP as a whole for a group of five, I think the prices depend on the
driver because I have read in some blog articles that sometimes they are higher
or lower. We then registered at their Tourist Information Center. After the process,
they endorsed a friendly reliable female guide. Before heading, they provided
us sturdy sticks to be used as canes to aid us in walking for hours. Our tour
guide prepared us with some information of the number of steps or the time
estimated to reach the falls.
The start of our walk.
There is a small village in between the jump-off to the Falls.
A selfie with the terraced rice fields.
Us having a short Photo Session in the red bridge.
Resting on the rocks.
A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE
As a newbie in walking through irregular rocky elevated land
platforms, I will say that the journey made me really exhausted due to aching
feet and trembling knees. My advice is that you go on with a group of friends.
Having a great company will boost each other up on the journey. The hike was
somehow exhausting but as they say, good things come to those who wait. In the
heart of the area, there you will you will find a small peaceful village with
smiling people. I admire their lifestyle amidst being very far from technology,
pollutions and noises of the urban areas, they look so happy. I almost gave up
when we stopped by to rest and find a comfort room. My friends suggested me to
just rest in the village and wait until they come back. Thinking of what great things would I miss if I do, I bravely hold up my head high and continue
walking. We then reached the red bridge, took some photos with smiles in our
faces because of excitement that we are near the Bomod-Ok Falls.
My friends Rio and Denise in front of the Falls and the clear water.
NATURE’S BEAUTY
As we reached our goal, we finally saw the treasure we
patiently struggled to reach and it never failed our eyes so as our feels. That
beautiful sight of crystal clear waters of the big falls surrounded with rocks,
lush green trees and plants truly exhibit the beauty only nature can give us.
All the steps going down were all worth it. If planning to swim, be careful of
the rocks surrounding the falls as they are slippery, you could get injured. The water from the falls is cold so make sure
to be physically healthy before swimming.
GOING BACK
More than hiking down to the falls, going back up is more
excruciating for a first timer like me; you will require more effort due to
gravity. Just enjoy every step while the sun is setting, appreciate the beauty
of the land formations in the valley. We finished at 7PM. Ate Tour Guide said
that in all the travellers she assisted, we are the ones who travelled that
long time and we know why.
Overall, the Bomod-Ok Falls is one of the most amazing
landmarks I visited in the Philippines, also one of the most challenging so
far. If you are that kind of an adventurer who loves hiking and challenges, the
Bomod-Ok Falls of Sagada, Mountain Province should be on your list.
THEMES: Long Distance Relationships, Cultural Differences,
Romance
SUMMARY: The story revolves around two women, Sile
(pronounced as Sheila) is a 39 year old Irish flight attendant from Dublin which
also has an Indian descent and Jude a 25 year old museum historian from the
rural Ontario, Canada. They met on a plane when Jude travelled abroad for the
first time. They formed a unique friendship from phone calls and E-mails. In
spite of distance, they found comfort with each other then fell in love. With
distance, race, cultures and age, the adversity of maintaining a stable and
lasting relationship is the core of the story.
Kindle Edition 2013.
REVIEW:
The Theme: After researching about the best lesbian novels to
read, I have seen that Landing has been consistent on the top of the lists and
seeing the author’s profile, I had this urge to read this novel as soon as possible.
The LGBT theme is good that it does not fully exhibit popular lesbian issues
as the main characters' adversities are about distance and enduring their
differences. The delivery of light romance despite their imperfections is very
effective in the first parts. There is this amusement whenever they were
exchanging E-mails so I can recommend this to those people in Long Distance
Relationships who haven’t met each other or just met in person in just a few
times.
This novel explores the problems of loving someone who is 5 Thousand Kilometers far away from you. It is true that love does not choose people, time and
distance; because of this there will come great struggles in between. Reading
the mini summary on Goodreads made me curious to read it expecting much. I want
to explore how LDRs work because I have friends currently in the same
situation.
The Characters: My view about the two characters is not the
same. I admire how Sile fought the struggles just to find ways to be with Jude,
the way she will do anything for love being a mature modern woman herself.
There is a part where she almost gave up but the way she stood up in the end is
still admirable. On the other hand, I find Jude as careless, less rational and
emotional though she has this very adorable side. I can see that the author
planned their differences carefully to create conflicts that readers could sympathize.
The more they differ, the more also they become closer. Whenever they exchange
E-mails, you can feel this unconscious hunger to know and cling to the other.
Emma Donoghue made them opposite with complexities so that they would find a
virtual home in each other.
The Story: Like I said, the first chapters made me smile due
to the characters’ blooming romance. The humor injected is satisfactory. As the
plot progresses, the spice lessen because of unmoving narratives involving the
other characters like Sile’s friends. A lot of happenings seem stagnant at the middle
part especially when Jude acts up. It is also one of those few novels that took
me longer (two months) to finish due to lack of progress to some important parts
of story. Either you can predict how will it end or be disappointed although it
is not a sad end at all. To be honest, it made me upset that one of the
character’s realization just came in the end.
My Verdict: Overall, this novel is good for those who want
to know the struggles of LDR relationships and the sacrifice one should give. Lessons could be
learned about love but don’t expect to be moved that much. Prepare yourself of
boredom at some parts and disappointment on one of the characters.
My Rating: 2/5
My Favorite Lines/ Quotes:
"You could know a friend all your life and still find it a complete mystery why he or she loved this particular individual, out of all the people in the world."
"In the market I saw a woman in a cafe and thought, why can't I love someone like her instead of you?" - Jude's deleted line in her E-Mail to Sile.
"Love isn't a problem, geography is." -Jude
"... moving in with someone is always a risk, even if you stay in the same city. You're putting your heart in their hands." -Sile