tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75103122012-02-10T15:12:53.100+13:00Filipino life in New ZealandNick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.comBlogger7931100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-8337552851473557562012-02-06T14:00:00.002+13:002012-02-06T14:00:39.765+13:00

The fun started last Friday, with loads of people walking all around the city in costume. Very festive indeed. I think the Sevens is more than rugby, at least in this part of the world. People get to dress up and walk the streets. Sort of Halloween, but for grown-ups. It can get rowdy though, but the news says overall the crowds have been more or less behaved this year. So was I

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-49094346963519933482012-02-02T23:14:00.000+13:002012-02-02T23:14:18.972+13:00

One of the significant things we did last year as residents of New Zealand was to vote.  I think it is monumental by itself because we were thus recognized as part of the community, and that we have been given the opportunity to have a voice in the 2011 elections. Of course, one cannot help but to compare the campaign and voting process with his native country. In the Philippines, campaigns

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-62055507334912000662012-01-27T19:36:00.000+13:002012-01-27T19:37:36.675+13:00

A beautiful sight greeted me one fine weekend morning.  The Pohutukawa tree in front of the house has finally bloomed!  In the last couple of years that we have been here, the Pohutukawa had given some slight indications that it will bloom, but it never did.  So it was indeed a pleasant surprise that it finally decided to! Endemic to Aotearoa, the Pohutukawa is also called the New Zealand

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-26589708020095601302012-01-20T07:00:00.000+13:002012-01-20T07:00:04.066+13:00

The Secret Cinema is for people who love watching movies, anywhere except in the cinema.  You get notified on where a screening will happen, and it's free (most of the time). What an interesting concept!  I've signed up.  Friends in Wellington, wouldn't you sign up too?  80s movies are in the offing! Learn more and register at the Secret Cinema website. (artwork credit: Secret Cinema

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-52922676449977421102012-01-18T14:11:00.002+13:002012-01-18T14:11:55.861+13:00

I've always said I'm a big Star Wars fan.  Well, maybe not so big anymore because I am a fan of Episodes 4-6, not so much of 1-3.  But still, I'm so going to watch this with my son!  Opening 9th February in New Zealand!

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-54981678735633374972012-01-16T11:25:00.001+13:002012-01-16T11:25:27.077+13:00

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-20049683635976457062012-01-12T22:17:00.000+13:002012-01-13T12:20:27.332+13:00

The Philippine government has declared the 2012 Philippine holidays.  It is actually an event in itself because such an announcement is met with much anticipation.  Who wouldn't, with the Philippines having more long weekends than most other countries?  Actually I personally think it balances out in the end, because I lead an interesting yet hectic work life in Manila.  Try staying in the office

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-38598970410128967302012-01-05T13:22:00.001+13:002012-01-05T19:47:11.949+13:00

When I phoned my Nanay in the Philippines last 31 December to greet them a Happy New Year, the first advice she gave us was not to serve chicken that night and on New Year's Day.  Why?  Because of the nature of the chicken which is "kahig-tuka" (literally scratch and peck) - which, in the Filipino allegory, symbolizes poverty.  So we should not serve chicken to avoid being "kahig-tuka" for the

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-75214446781415407742012-01-01T01:30:00.001+13:002012-01-01T01:30:42.243+13:00

It's nearly 1AM here in Wellington.  Day 1 of 2012!  I just felt an emo moment coming on and decided to post here the stuff that I feel were memorable in 2011, good or deplorable.  (I think it's also worth remembering the stuff that made you feel bad so one is able to appreciate the better things that come his way). We had a proper beach outing in January.  That's in the Philippines!  I find

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-55405454960437371122011-12-29T00:07:00.000+13:002011-12-29T00:07:03.239+13:00

A heartwarming true Christmas story to share with loved ones. Video credit goes to CBS News Channel.

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-38126496038516645032011-12-22T10:12:00.000+13:002011-12-22T10:12:29.857+13:00

Nearly 5 years after it was announced that The Hobbit was getting the silver screen treatment, we finally have a sneak preview through this movie trailer. I read The Hobbit many years ago, and though I skipped a number of pages where the characters break into song, I found the story involving and a superb adventure in itself! In fact it made me pick up the first book of the Lord of the

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-63019620728897656492011-12-20T12:58:00.001+13:002011-12-20T12:58:38.900+13:00

We were a bit early... We are so happy that the Filipino Chaplaincy has scheduled a number of the Simbang Gabi sessions at Johnsonville.  We are at least able to attend 3 of the masses (as I still have work at this time and we would not have been able to make it to the mass if it were elsewhere). Mary and Joseph must still be on their way to Bethlehem Simbang Gabi (literal translation:

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-28505590464220352172011-12-16T13:59:00.000+13:002011-12-16T13:59:10.418+13:00

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-30915763036433073102011-12-11T22:39:00.000+13:002011-12-11T22:39:00.048+13:00

We as Filipinos have always associated our families as being close-knit, providing a sense of togetherness which makes other cultures that promote independence a very radical mode of thinking indeed.  But there is a change happening to our society, and it is the direct effect of the deployment of our workforce to other countries.  Our OFWs - or Overseas Filipino Workers - are a blessing to

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-29852390923449091442011-12-08T07:00:00.000+13:002011-12-08T07:00:01.521+13:00

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-55490307371827723192011-12-05T22:02:00.001+13:002011-12-05T22:18:10.734+13:00

There is something especially different with this year's parade. There is a Nativity float! Yay! We missed the Ghostbusters this year.  Slimer must be in the middle of mishief.  The parade is lots of fun for the young and the young-at-heart.  Really good to have something like this to usher in the Christmas season. And as they say, a photo is worth a thousand words so here's a number of

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-57937918566350580962011-12-01T20:44:00.001+13:002011-12-01T21:00:08.490+13:00

It's been years since I last slept in a tent, under a night sky full of twinkling stars.  The last time I did so was 3 years ago back in the Philippines.  So when opportunity presented itself (a cloudless sky with only a slight breeze), I decided to have a taste of the outdoors once again.  And it's great that my son decided to join me in this journey as well! Just before the sun dipped

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-53329292161296247812011-11-25T13:42:00.001+13:002011-11-25T13:58:36.938+13:00

A photo is truly worth a thousand words. I came across the above photo by Red Silva on Facebook.  I do not know Red, but this photo had been circulating in Facebook (I learned it's been shared around 50,000 times).  It is the photo of an old lady (whom we affectionately call Lola in the Philippines) looking for her husband who had been missing for two weeks already. As her photo spread in the

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-82697063305922391062011-11-21T11:17:00.001+13:002011-11-21T12:07:20.115+13:00

A perfect gift to your loved ones this Christmas! A must-have 2012 liturgical A5 Desk Calendar for Kiwi-Pinoys, complete with bible verses and annotations for monthly themes. Only $8.00/Calendar ( Bulk Purchase for only $7.00/Calendar for Orders 10x or more). For orders please email our Finance Administrators Tere: tslacsamana@yahoo.com or Abbot: abbots100@gmail.com, or contact your

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-57180145053687148172011-11-18T15:11:00.000+13:002011-11-18T15:13:50.458+13:00

Can you spot me? Heh. Kidding.  Party days over for me I guess. But can you spot the Sesame Street aliens?  Rather cool bunch.

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-53411976856376623592011-11-15T10:23:00.001+13:002011-11-15T10:27:42.590+13:00

Introduction to the NZ Education System When : Monday 21st November 2011 Time : 6.00pm -7.30pm Guest presenter: Abdi Bihi, Migrant and Refugee Education Coordinator, Ministry of Education Topics covered: . NZ education system - teaching and learning in New Zealand Types of schools and how schools are managed What schools teach: the curriculum; levels of schooling from early childhood

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-80938021084455597452011-11-10T15:31:00.000+13:002011-11-10T15:31:00.258+13:00

Driving here in Wellington can be a pleasure, although I had not been really doing much of it because I have been quite conscious of my carbon footprint. But there are instances that I have to, especially since there aren't exactly jeepneys and tricyles around, and driving the car is loads cheaper than taking a cab. I would more readily take a bus though than, say, drive to work. While it is

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-81967881386515565602011-11-07T07:00:00.000+13:002011-11-07T07:00:01.112+13:00

This is old news I know, and although we enthusiastically followed the games I do not really know much about Rugby to warrant a blog post.  But I found this video which pretty much sums up the atmosphere and excitement around this event, and I would like to share this with you.

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-87396480612804906012011-11-04T07:00:00.001+13:002011-11-04T07:00:06.741+13:00

There are five alternatives to the Wellywood sign, all of which are now up for votation until 6 November.  On 9 November, the two most popular options will go against the original Wellywood sign in another voting match. Here are the five entries: Saw something you like?  Then head over to The Dominion Post website where descriptions about the above concepts are available, and

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-36366460642546420512011-11-01T20:29:00.001+13:002011-11-02T11:15:06.601+13:00

Every year at Halloween, we see kids dressed up in various costumes as they roam from house to house for their customary 'trick or treat'.  And every year the Salvation Army also plays host to a fun night of games. If the event falls on the same evening as trick or treating night, then expect lesser kids roaming the streets!  I think some parents prefer this too, because then they would know

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-17765865241771811192011-10-25T15:12:00.000+13:002011-10-25T15:12:12.903+13:00

We were in the city on a weekend stroll when I realized we were very near Old St Paul's so we decided to make an unscheduled stop.  I've heard a lot about this Church and it was a good time as any to pay a visit. Outside, the Church looks like one of the many such establishments in the area.  But inside, it's a different view altogether.  It is very beautiful, a fine piece of architecture

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-8644205091557761002011-10-18T09:19:00.002+13:002011-10-18T09:19:39.788+13:00

Filipinos Artists in New Zealand hosts a regular radio programme aired live on Wellington Access Radio 783AM band on Saturdays at 5-6PM. You may also access previous episodes via the podcast through the Wellington Access Radio website. From the Wellington Access Radio website: A programme for the promotion of Filipino culture and heritage through music and arts, Filipino language and

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-22936189420194199362011-10-15T09:13:00.000+13:002011-10-17T13:14:04.490+13:00

New Zealand Filipinos have appealed to Kiwis not to subject them to "racial hatred" as a result of the Rena grounding. Filipinos living in Tauranga have been abused by local residents, who have given them the finger and told them they were at fault for the Rena disaster, Migrante Aotearoa New Zealand coordinator Dennis Maga said.  "Once you've been identified as a Filipino there is judgment

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-75595047336095347122011-10-14T15:10:00.001+13:002011-10-14T15:10:39.099+13:00

To select YouTube Philippines, choose 'Philippines' as your location at the bottom of the YouTube screen.

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-68600915002323247322011-10-12T12:43:00.000+13:002011-10-12T12:43:00.097+13:00

I stumbled upon this photo set on Flickr showing Nightmare's Fear Factory's latest victims customers.  My immediate thought was the cleverness in which the people behind this 'haunted house' use web technology to feature their product!  Yeah, pretty lame first reaction I know.  But it really is kind of compelling.  I looked through some photos and the comments that followed (expect some really

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-14399356338557136082011-10-09T19:00:00.002+13:002012-01-01T01:22:28.818+13:00

Thought I'd share some more photos of flowers I took from the Botanic Garden visit.  It's really a beautiful welcome to spring.  Try to head out there if you haven't yet.  I hope the tulips are still around though! (my son correctly identified this as an Iris)

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-59374589725273451542011-10-04T14:13:00.003+13:002011-10-04T14:13:54.093+13:00

Thought I'd put in a good word for the good people at Challenge Young Motors, a petrol /vehicle service station at Ohariu Road in Johnsonville. We had a dilemma one weekend: a flat tyre.  This is the first time we experienced this, and so we asked around where the best place would be to have it fixed without worrying about how much it will cost us. We also realized we did not have the tools

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-27853629988440540422011-09-29T07:00:00.000+13:002011-09-29T07:00:03.157+13:00

Last Sunday (25 September) was Tulip Festival at the Botanic Garden. Incidentally, my mother-in-law is here with us on vacation so I thought this would be something she would really like.  And she did, wet weather notwithstanding! We went to the Botanic Garden with Jo-Lo.  It started with the short but fun Cable Car ride (here's a tip if you're going to the Botanic Garden.  Visit the Library

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-11216046555477975692011-09-26T07:00:00.000+13:002011-09-26T07:00:00.671+13:00

I am a bit hesitant to talk about some topics that New Zealand clearly places great value in, in case I misrepresent these and get the ire of the public. Not that I make controversial comments like Springboks coach Peter de Villiers.  But in this post I would like to make an objective observation on a local phenomenon called the Haka. The Haka is traditionally a war cry or a challenge which

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-42479404712859956032011-09-23T07:00:00.000+12:002011-09-23T07:00:06.535+12:00

Moving Planet will be a day to put our demands for climate action into motion—marching, biking, skating—calling for the world to go beyond fossil fuels. Join the Global Movement. Learn more at the Moving Planet website.

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-8248552782764542392011-09-22T07:00:00.000+12:002011-09-22T07:00:00.695+12:00

Then watch the video below! And vote for our very own natural wonder to be part of the New 7 Wonders of Nature!

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-30615638434087642572011-09-19T21:32:00.002+12:002011-09-19T21:32:57.626+12:00

In case you are wondering if I already own it on Blu Ray, no I still do not.  In fact we are still on DVD (boo-hoo-hoo!), my dream of having a surround sound system still a dream right now as we have other priorities to attend to. Hmmm.... I'm actually feeling a bit nostalgic right now.  I used to have a 6-speaker surround sound system back in my apartment in Manila.  I just loved watching my

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-59352966503871944742011-09-14T07:00:00.000+12:002011-09-14T07:00:03.911+12:00

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-61778996717614007892011-09-11T09:19:00.000+12:002011-09-11T09:21:36.582+12:00

Has it really been ten years since that fateful day?  It only seems like yesterday when I was in my apartment in Manila that night when I received an SMS from a friend saying that the US was being attacked.  My first thought was that it was a joke, like those text messages that tell you that you won a lottery you never joined.  I said what I thought, and the reply was to turn on the TV.  It

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-83210588210350340452011-09-08T13:20:00.004+12:002011-09-08T13:21:01.151+12:00

Wellington is host to eight Rugby World Cup matches, including two quarter-finals.  And the city is drumming up a number of activities for the entertainment of tourists and locals alike. The Festival of Carnivale will run from Friday 9 September to Sunday 9 October and will feature:  a diverse array of art, performance and entertainment  rugby-themed events and activities  a strong focus on

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-38078865120374927972011-09-05T21:05:00.001+12:002011-09-05T21:12:10.583+12:00

This newspaper headline caught my eye early this week.  An 88 year old pensioner passed away, and he was alone.  No one knew he had died.  In his apartment, in an apartment block.  His body was found about a year later. This story gave a lasting impression on me.  Firstly, I felt wonderment.  How was it possible that his death went unnoticed?  And then I felt pity, but this pity was immediately

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-74452900235300376752011-08-31T12:32:00.000+12:002011-08-31T12:32:23.453+12:00

Got a cool idea for the signage to be constructed by the Wellington Airport? Here's your chance to have your say by submitting your idea. Wellywood haters who slammed the airport's proposed sign for being uninventive are being given the chance to come up with something better.  There will still be a sign - but whether it's Wellywood or something else is now in Wellington's hands.Wellington

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-44747047819778511512011-08-30T13:22:00.000+12:002011-08-30T13:22:30.041+12:00

This is a mission by my favourite group ImprovEverywhere.  Love it. Have a great day everyone!

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-75124703212696033722011-08-27T07:55:00.002+12:002011-08-30T13:23:10.347+12:00

Dahil sa Buwan ng Wika ay magsusulat ako ngayon sa wikang Pilipino.  Nguni't huwag nyong akalain na tuwing Linggo ng Wika ko lang ito ginagawa.  Sa bahay ay pambansang wika ang gamit namin (at paminsan-minsan naman ay nag-i-Ilocano rin kami) kung kaya't nakakaintindi ang anim na taon naming anak nito kahit na nahuhubog ang kanyang utak na magsalita ng Inggles.  Gusto namin syang maging bilingual

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-20984100793934823162011-08-24T21:26:00.000+12:002011-08-24T21:26:38.333+12:00

It seemed only a few days back when we had the unexpected snowfall here in Wellington.  It was a thrilling experience for me and my family.  Jo-Lo and I made the most of it because we knew it would not last long.  And I did not feel compelled to write right after that. I found new inspiration though, through a couple of books I brought with me from the Philippines after our vacation there last

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-46621778621633866822011-08-17T19:23:00.001+12:002011-08-24T21:42:17.160+12:00

Going... Going... Gone...

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-72383896284156480752011-08-16T21:30:00.000+12:002011-08-16T21:30:43.451+12:00

I was at the bus stop with a couple of commuters waiting for our ride and we were doing small talk when a Metlink car arrived and informed us that the bus was not arriving because the roads were slippery.  Dangerous for hilly areas like ours (or on any area for that matter, come to think of it).  The other option for us was to walk down to the mall and wait for any other buses at the stop.  I

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-2565773309185558432011-08-15T21:59:00.001+12:002011-08-16T21:33:49.393+12:00

Snow or not, we have work and Jo-Lo has school.  We anticipated the roads to be slippery and so I walked Jo-Lo to school. The roads have been cleared of snow, but it seems we had some rains last night and so some of the snow on the sidewalk has turned to slippery ice, so we walked carefully and slower than usual. I crossed the park enroute to the bus stop and the playground was also covered with

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-17340592007921938912011-08-14T19:15:00.002+12:002011-08-15T21:37:40.177+12:00

What started out as a drizzle became white, fluffy things that turned out to be snow! It started at around 4:30PM today. After half an hour we had quite a good layer of snow to create a snowman and have snowball fights! The 6PM news said that this happens only about once in ten years! So we made the most of it and Jo-Lo and I even had a short walk around the neighbourhood while there was

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-74978330156373978162011-08-12T07:00:00.009+12:002011-08-14T19:39:53.066+12:00

Oh wow, this is exciting news indeed.  The New Zealand Mint will release Star Wars coins!  And they're legal tender!  Fat chance that we would see any in general circulation.  I just might be tempted to purchase a coin... or two.  But an entire set would be too much of an investment.  It would be so cool though if I can get a set with its custom casing! According to a news article in

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-46559169258854945372011-08-11T07:00:00.002+12:002011-08-14T19:38:19.015+12:00

The Filipino Chaplaincy of Wellington is looking to assist new migrants by acting as a conduit for those who want to help, and match them to those who need help.  One thing we as a family experienced when we were also new to the country was the challenge of acquiring the basic necessities (we only had clothes and camping utensils when we arrived!).  Strangers (and good friends since then) came to

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-69440405156808604562011-08-05T07:00:00.002+12:002011-08-10T21:36:23.639+12:00

This is a plea for financial assistance for baby Liam, whose plight has been in focus in the Definitely Filipino blog. A miracle happened yesterday because of all the prayers and the positive force that went Baby Liam's way. It has been a week since the first post asking for support and prayers for a 42-day old baby suffering from severe Pneumonia and Sepsis. I called the Good Samaritan

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-75063764533319297702011-08-03T07:00:00.025+12:002011-08-03T07:00:01.850+12:00

What is a relaxing weekend for me? It's an afternoon spent with my son with a tent outside... ... watching the clouds drift by... an elephant here, a rabbit there... ... and read a really short book ... ... and watch the planes fly by... ... and play with our shadows... ... and snooze off under the warm afternoon sun.

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-57056358198027892882011-07-31T07:00:00.024+12:002011-07-31T07:00:02.201+12:00

Save for my usual technology and movie haunts, here are five websites I always make a point of visiting at least once a week.  You might find my favourites interesting too! TED (http://www.ted.com/) Inspiring talks and ideas. One could spend hours trawling through the website and listening to short but informative and inspiring talks. Never fails to make me smile and wonder. PostSecret (http

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-14173430801800166382011-07-28T07:00:00.002+12:002011-07-30T23:28:43.135+12:00

I'm always fascinated by robots.  This one, from TED Talks, is simply amazing, and I would like to share it with you.

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-24663492333941019392011-07-25T12:30:00.001+12:002011-07-25T12:38:21.798+12:00

When we became Permanent Residents, one question I had was if we needed to register as votes, of if we already had the right to vote at all. It did not seem important at that time, so I sort of forgot about it. And then I received a letter from Elections NZ indicating that it is a legal requirement to be a registered voter, and that I should enrol. So enrol I did. It was a seriously easy

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-57797607093643152242011-07-20T21:01:00.000+12:002011-07-20T21:01:33.789+12:00

Multitasking?

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-36606568755593330202011-07-16T07:00:00.000+12:002011-07-16T07:00:03.225+12:00

Spanning 17 years working in Information Technology. Started out as a Sales Engineer. Spent time outside of office hours chatting via the BBS (Bulletin Board System).  Quite happy that management, who were only a couple of tables from me, permitted this. Moved to Systems Engineering, in charge of the Network General Sniffer System and designed Local Area Networks.  At that time, it mattered

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-11649744699586467392011-07-12T19:22:00.000+12:002011-07-12T19:22:20.175+12:00

Last Sunday was turning out to be a fine day, one of the rare sunny afternoons in this winter season.  Russell's Dad (Russell is Jo-Lo's classmate) phoned and wondered if we were interested to go on an afternoon tramp. It's been a while since we climbed the mountain in our "backyard" and it's either that or a video game afternoon; we needed the exercise anyway so off we went to Mt KauKau! The

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-86786631467858826202011-07-08T07:00:00.018+12:002011-07-12T19:24:02.660+12:00

Newsarama.com counted down the 10 coolest robots in pop culture history, and no other than R2-D2 topped the list!  Being a huge fan of the astromech droid myself, this comes as no surprise.  My personal list would change in the 2-9 ranking compared with theirs, but their top choice is without contest. In celebration of this news, I am showing here my collection of R2-D2 figures, all of which are

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-71856909927038537852011-07-04T13:15:00.001+12:002011-07-08T19:16:49.145+12:00

The email below is part of this week's PostSecret.  It's a very nice story, and I would like to share it with you. Oh, and the Dominic mentioned therein is not me! My name is Ashley. Four years ago this coming October I discovered the PostSecret Community. It was a safe haven, a place to share my deepest thoughts and feelings, it was a place to be one hundred percent myself. I had no idea or

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-19360641917218862102011-06-30T22:18:00.000+12:002011-06-30T22:18:38.671+12:00

Christine Joan at a week old

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-2874787823111407572011-06-25T23:13:00.000+12:002011-06-25T23:13:32.649+12:00

This week is a momentous one for my family, because last Tuesday our daughter was born.  It certainly is another one of life's surprises.  Three years ago I did not think I'd be living in another country, but here we are.  One year ago I never would have thought we'd be new parents again, but here we are.  I hope the next surprise will be at the Lotto! My wife delivered our second child at the

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-21456926730337152862011-06-20T19:14:00.000+12:002011-06-20T19:14:09.019+12:00

I learned that Overseas Filipino Workers are now required to pay P100 monthly to their PAG-IBIG Fund.  This bit of news reminded me of the time my wife and I withdrew our PAG-IBIG Fund early this year because we have migrated to a new country.  Even as employees in the Philippines, we did not find much value as PAG-IBIG Fund members.  SSS was ok because we were able to take out a loan, but the

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-7895680467616460512011-06-16T07:00:00.000+12:002011-06-16T07:00:01.594+12:00

"Tagging" is the local term in New Zealand for vandalism.  This is a prevalent problem here, and a number of measures have been taken to curb this, such as imposing an age limit to those who buy spray paint, and meting punishment to those caught in the act. There is, however, another form of tagging that's eliciting more positive than negative responses, and it involves yarn.  They call it

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-50291682708619761202011-06-13T07:00:00.158+12:002011-06-13T07:00:03.720+12:00

We have recently received word that my mother-in-law's Visitor Visa has been approved.  If you are also thinking of sponsoring your relative based in the Philippines for a visit here in New Zealand and you are looking for information, I hope our experience will be of some use to you. What we did was we accomplished the papers here in Wellington, then had these papers delivered to my

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-86722922042732761472011-06-09T07:00:00.000+12:002011-06-08T22:25:26.640+12:00

One of my favourite TV shows currently is Undercover Boss where a top management personnel (usually the CEO or General Manager) works with the ranks disguised as a trainee.  All the episodes I have seen so far have been great, but this one tops the list so far and has prompted me to blog about it. Baja Fresh CEO David Kim worked undercover and met 4 people working in these stores.  David

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-36484282648809407342011-06-06T11:52:00.000+12:002011-06-06T11:52:54.052+12:00

KASAGIP Charitable Trust is inviting Filipinos in the Wellington region to attend their Friendship Meeting, the aim of which is to organise volunteer efforts towards helping fellow migrants, especially the new arrivals, to make new friends and provide assistance.  If you are new to the country, you are most welcome to join us. This free event will be on 25 June 2011 at the Johnsonville

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-12777904552986444142011-06-02T13:58:00.001+12:002011-06-02T13:59:16.424+12:00

The proposed Wellywood sign has had its share of the limelight for the past few weeks.  Well, it had actually been in the drawing board since last year, but construction was held off (also slated for June).  And when announced that it was pushing through this year, it had received yet again a public outcry, with more people opposing than in favour of it. Personally I have been watching the

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-90266363490522916492011-05-30T20:28:00.000+12:002011-05-30T20:28:53.577+12:00

This is it. The highlight of my trip in the US so many years ago. I am unabashedly a huge Star Wars fan and to experience Star Tours was a dream come true. Star Tours is one of the many (and to my opinion, the best) rides at Disneyland in Anaheim, California. The best part is, I didn't know it was actually there and got the best surprise of all. We were just following the queue from one

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-75787151900813922712011-05-24T07:00:00.001+12:002011-05-30T20:29:59.482+12:00

I was still quite young then, and I no longer remember why we were there but I remember it fondly because it was such a beautiful sight. My siblings and I were walking along a dark road by the fields in rural Dagupan. There were no street lights, and the way ahead was lit only by the moon and the stars. And then we suddenly saw it: a tree festooned with a thousand lights from fireflies. It

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-26231672375572804642011-05-21T07:00:00.022+12:002011-05-21T07:00:01.158+12:00

Dear friends, Every year, the Filipinos commemorate its gaining of independence from its colonizers on 12 June 1898.  This year, it will be special because aside from the celebration of the 113th Year Anniversary of our Philippine Independence, we will also celebrate 150th Birth Anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal, our National Hero. The programme will start at 11:00am with a Catholic Mass, then a “

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-33079087281149005412011-05-18T16:13:00.001+12:002011-05-30T19:58:42.282+12:00

Just like any other parent who would like to have a place to retire to and pass on to their kids, we started to invest on a plot of land in my hometown of Baguio City in the Philippines. We have been paying a monthly amortization since the middle of 2007, with the property developer stating that in about 5 years' time, the place would have been developed already - roadworks, pipelines, basic

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-78471870105386042642011-05-15T10:20:00.001+12:002011-05-30T19:57:58.347+12:00

The Weta Cave is a mini-museum of props, scale models, and various production materials for movies that Weta worked with.  Weta is more popularly known for groundbreaking film Lord of the Rings and is one of my favourite movies of all time!  The Weta Cave showcases materials from that film, as well as from a lot of memorable others. We were actually on another "mission" that weekend but we were

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-74489689685906978052011-05-08T07:00:00.001+12:002011-05-08T07:00:03.725+12:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there!

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-72152928590039222972011-05-04T10:45:00.000+12:002011-05-04T10:45:20.064+12:00

The Philippine Embassy invites all Filipinos and friends in New Zealand in celebrating the 113th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and the 150th Birth Anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal on Sunday, 12 June 2011 (10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.) at the Wellington Indian Cultural Center, 48 Kemp St. Kilbirnie, Wellington. Enjoy Philippine culture at its very best as there will be food stalls showcasing

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-28213256535038183722011-05-01T07:00:00.000+12:002011-05-01T07:00:02.313+12:00

Dorrie Leslie Park is located at Lyall Bay in the southern region of Wellington.  We stopped by for picnic/lunch here with friends one weekend.  It's a nice little park with a picnic table and an awesome view of the water.  Also nearby is the international airport.  We saw a couple of planes fly over the bay and onto the runway. It's a nice place to stop by and spend a relaxing couple of

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-13680658788229498072011-04-27T13:20:00.000+12:002011-04-27T13:20:12.162+12:00

I usually get my copy of Tambuli, the Filipino Chaplaincy newsletter, through an online messaging group and I was wondering how come the Chaplaincy did not have a website to centralize information and resources. The good news is the Filipino Chaplaincy in Wellington now has a website!  It was launched last Sunday.  Now everyone has a place to go to for information on Chaplaincy news and events.

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-29063955833125573072011-04-23T18:20:00.001+12:002011-04-23T18:26:31.555+12:00

Visita Iglesia is a traditional Catholic tradition practised in the Philippines during the Lenten season.  It literally means "Church Visit", and it is just that: a visit to seven Churches while contemplating on the fourteen stations of the cross.  Two stations are meditated on per Church. Friends organized a Visita Iglesia and we were happy to be able to join.  This is normally done on

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-77530682230945630212011-04-20T12:48:00.000+12:002011-04-20T12:48:11.618+12:00

Hi there, Our Canterbury neighbours still need our help. That's why we're giving volunteers the chance to fly to Christchurch and lend a hand for the day. And we've teamed up with the Red Cross, who'll make sure we hit the ground running when we get there. We'll provide flights, airport transfers in Christchurch, and your snacks and lunch for the day. All you need to do is wear suitable

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-31600174402603499552011-04-20T09:45:00.001+12:002011-04-20T09:50:47.274+12:00

To our friends and members of the Filipino Community KASAGIP would like to enjoin you to support the family of Roselle Ramirez (from Paraparaumu) who died from a recent tragedy. A Roselle Ramirez fund has been set up to help her family. If you would like to make a donation to the fund, the details of the account are as follows: Roselle Ramirez Fund 03 0732 0613275 000 Westpac Paraparaumu Branch

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-90885222536941541542011-04-18T21:32:00.000+12:002011-04-18T21:32:23.670+12:00

One of the things I was happy to leave behind in my previous work in Manila was the huge amount of cold calls for advertisements and promos that I received.  Even with a receptionist filtering the calls, a fair number still manages to go through.  Here in New Zealand, I am happy to note that I have not received such calls at work.  The unsolicited ones I receive are related to my work (software,

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-24086640446608391882011-04-14T07:00:00.015+12:002011-04-15T23:03:25.548+12:00

Bring all the family to sample the exciting sounds and spicy aromas of the third Southeast Asian Night Market which will spread out along the Wellington waterfront at Frank Kitts promenade and Shed 6 on Saturday 16 April 2011 from 4.00pm to 10.00pm. In the event of bad weather, the market will be held on Sunday 17 April from 4pm to 10pm. The ten member countries of the Association of Southeast

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-68254877324829111212011-04-13T07:00:00.001+12:002011-04-13T22:01:24.417+12:00

The Philippine Embassy urges registered nurses or nursing graduates, based in the Philippines and wishing to seek employment in New Zealand, to ensure that they observe the proper procedure in obtaining accreditation or recognition of their credentials as registered nurses with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NZ Nursing Council) before deciding to move to New Zealand in order to avoid

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-57667746845073104872011-04-10T21:27:00.001+12:002011-09-14T12:55:05.492+12:00

I've had a busy weekend. So busy that after our regular grocery session, I no longer found the energy to do my usual tasks at home.  We just sat there and stared at the TV screen. And then I thought about changing the layout of my blog.  After all, I may not have the energy to do stuff around the house, but my brain is still buzzing and I still have enough energy to sit through a couple of

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-10639986524733385272011-04-07T22:01:00.002+12:002011-04-12T21:52:00.879+12:00

Jesus of Nazareth 6 p.m. Friday, 08 April 2011 Sts Peter & Paul Parish Church Dr Taylor Terrace Johnsonville, Wellington Entry by Koha* All proceeds go to Caritas for Christchurch earthquake appeal. Refreshments are provided. This reminds me of Holy Week back in the Philippines, when the regular shows on TV are suspended and in place are videos portraying Jesus and the prophets. And since

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-12788398622568155852011-04-05T16:07:00.001+12:002011-04-12T21:52:33.084+12:00

I was surprised to see a special guest to our home early last week.  Mother Mary has come to visit us for a week.  This is called Block Rosary, which is quite popular in the Philippines.  It is thus named because a 'block' of families gather as one to pray the Rosary.  Mother Mary visits a house where she stays for a predetermined length of time, and families would go to that house to pray the

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-90861171280397778912011-04-01T21:32:00.000+13:002011-04-01T21:32:08.521+13:00

And this is no April Fool joke... Daylight Saving Time ends this coming Sunday, 3 April. Time to take back the hour "lost" when we started DST last year! The time change officially starts on 3AM when it becomes 2AM. So that means... an extra hour of sleep! I was once confused whether we need to move back or advance our watches come DST change time but a friend shared me this witty quote that

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-91580883245413511442011-03-28T20:00:00.000+13:002012-01-01T01:07:52.317+13:00

We had a feeling of deja vu last Saturday as we turned off the lights a few minutes after we started dinner. My wife pointed out that last year, we were also having dinner when we turned off the lights, and we also just finished watching American Idol at that time. We had a relatively quiet Earth Hour; I was planning to put up the tent in the lawn so we can watch the stars but the weather had

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-75118375318689183882011-03-25T09:44:00.000+13:002011-03-25T09:44:43.570+13:00

GlobalFest marks the closing of the National Arts Festival and celebrate the diversity of our beautiful city in a fun free afternoon for the whole family. Enjoy great food, hands-on crafts and activities, and stunning dance and music performances in this day long celebration of Wellington and its people. Civic Square will come alive with a sea of colourful costumes, scintillating sounds and

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-58196130668847239132011-03-21T14:57:00.001+13:002011-04-01T21:03:09.610+13:00

We were treated to a cool view of the moon last night. There were a few clouds about, but in the areas where the skies are clear, the stars shone through behind a majestic blue. The full moon was especially captivating. I remembered I have just installed Google Sky Maps on my Android phone and I asked my son Jo-Lo if he wanted to do a little stargazing. To which he excitedly agreed. And so

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-31274520470103740352011-03-18T14:30:00.001+13:002011-03-18T14:31:03.191+13:00

(A rather late post I know, but check if there are still seats available if you are interested.  Thanks) Life in a new country can be challenging. You are invited to the Free half-day seminar: Relating Well in New Zealand Run by Relationship Services you will learn about: New Zealand culture strategies for coping with change opportunities for networking and support tips on where to find help

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-85632092666773670322011-03-15T13:27:00.000+13:002011-03-15T13:27:29.010+13:00

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-91287876426433853612011-03-11T10:35:00.000+13:002011-03-11T10:35:39.877+13:00

Race Relations Day: An annual international event to eliminate racial discrimination Please join us to celebrate this year’s theme: “Living in Harmony” Saturday 12 March 11am-2pm Johnsonville Community Centre (Main Hall) ~ Free Entry ~ There will be: Ethnic Food stalls Entertainment by the diverse cultures from our local community plus DJs from Kool FM~ Whitireia Students of Music, and You

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-6260736938490444602011-03-09T13:38:00.000+13:002011-03-09T13:38:04.255+13:00

If you are keen on helping our kababayans especially the new arrivals, or even those who have been here for a while and may be experiencing some difficulties, Kasagip Charitable Trust is conducting a friendship meeting on March 19 (Saturday) from 3.30-4.30 pm at the Johnsonville Community Centre, Room One. Free po ito. The purpose is to provide an avenue for those who wish to help, and also to

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-62020826193928877402011-03-06T07:00:00.019+13:002011-03-06T07:00:00.197+13:00

(A Message from Allan Villarante) As an aftermath of the recent Canterbury earthquake, I think it is important that we will have a directory to be able to connect and coordinate efforts in events of emergencies, e.g, earthquakes, tsunami, etc. Having a directory which shows details of our agencies, workplace locations (floor level in the building, etc), and immediate contact numbers might be of

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-80924929278402948842011-03-04T12:51:00.001+13:002011-03-04T12:52:38.461+13:00

Are you typical?

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-34554741564342101792011-03-03T19:30:00.000+13:002011-03-03T19:30:34.306+13:00

Let us include the victims and their families in our prayers in this time of sadness... Jessie Lloyd Redoble, John Kristoffer Chua, Ezra Mae Medalle, Emmabelle Anoba, Jewel Francisco, Ivy Jane Cabunilas, Mary Louise Anne Amantillo, Valquin Bensurto, Rhea Mae Sumalpong, Erica Nora, and, Lalaine Agatep. (ABS-CBN news)

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-79736533843096640152011-03-01T10:13:00.000+13:002011-03-01T10:13:00.749+13:00

(Unfortunately this reached me only this morning but you might want to check it out if you are interested and available later) Dear Friends, I wish to inform you that the Philippine Embassy is presently preparing for a special cultural project known as Philippine Heritage Classes for Young Filipino Migrants in New Zealand. It aims to provide learning opportunities for the third generation of

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510312.post-33128760931359066722011-02-28T14:59:00.000+13:002011-02-28T14:59:51.188+13:00

This picture was taken at Botanical Garden a month after Aylene’s arrival in NZ.  Everything seemed to be perfect then. Aylene came to New Zealand full of hope, full of plans, full of dreams.  She envisioned NZ to be the country which would give her family a better future. Armed with 9 month Work to Resident (WTR) permit, and after spending around $20,000 nzd (borrowed from her aunt’s

Nick Ballesteroshttps://profiles.google.com/102230086458952412430noreply@blogger.com0