Hamlet's Lair

How I Said Goodbye

On the 31st of May 2011, I published my very first post on this blog. It wasn't just my growing passion for photography then that inspired me to launch this page but more because of my then two-year-old Hamlet which clearly explains the site's name.

Fast forward to June 6, 2021... my Drama Queen as I named her in my first post here > https://hamletslair.blogspot.com/2011/06/my-drama-queen.html, finally crossed the rainbow bridge. It's sad to think that my last blog was for and about her 12th birthday and now, 10 years from the time this site was launched, I'm writing about her passing.

I was visiting Cologne that day with a heavy heart. My thoughts were focused on Hamlet. I shared the experience on my Instagram account the following day.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by SHΞЯУL BΞЯTHMANN (@shyllzkie)

I didn't just lose a pet. I lost my most loyal friend, my confidante, my baby. Words are not enough to express my grief and I know not everybody understands. Not everyone gets to love and be loved by such a wonderful creature. But I thank the Creator of heaven and earth who made me a steward of one of His most lovable beings. In my sadness, I recognize the blessing and I know I will be forever grateful that I was given Hamlet.

June 16, 2021
0 Comments

Twelfth

dogs

They say that if you're lucky, a dog will come into your life, steal your heart and change everything. But I don't believe in luck.

When Hamlet came into my life, it was at the perfect time. I was dealing with a lot of losses then. It was a major turning point for me - in different aspects - family, career, personal, and emotional. But Hamlet arrived and made everything lighter if not easier for me.

Having this girl taught me so much about unconditional love, kindness, patience, and self-sacrifice. Many times she comforted me when I cried. Her presence alone provided huge solace and joy.

Hamlet used to sleep in my room and every four in the morning she would transfer to my bed - like a ritual, until we both would get up and start the day.

I may not like to admit it but before committing to marriage, it was her I thought so much about. Then I broke my own heart when I left for Germany. I am sure I broke hers, as well.

Everyday she watches and waits for me at the door. I see the sad scenario every time I video call my mother. By far, leaving her is the only reason I regret getting married. (Sorry, Sunshine! You know what I mean.)

You will never understand my sentiment unless you know what it's like to be blessed by the kind of love and joy so pure that only a dog can give. Yes, I am blessed, not lucky. Blessed that God entrusted me with a loyal, loving creature like Hamlet.

Today, my family celebrates my Hamlet's 12th birthday. Her first without me. The following photos were taken on her birthday last year which I did not get to post.

September 11, 2020
0 Comments

Night at the Ritz-Carlton

hong kong

With just a month to book our wedding reception, I was delighted that the Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong was quick to send us a positive feedback. Since Stefan and I had to report to the Philippine embassy right after the wedding, we had the reception scheduled for the evening.

So our dinner was booked at the Lounge and Bar of the Ritz-Carlton where we had a front-row seat to Hong Kong's skyline. Located at the 102nd floor of the building, with floor-to-ceiling windows, and seats that we particularly chose, we truly had a remarkable view.

Since it's also a Michelin-starred restaurant, we received nothing less than an elegant dining experience. While we were having our deserts, the staff also gave us a sweet surprise in the form of additional deserts and a card containing mine and Stefan's travel photos. The pics were from a link I gave them when they asked for our pictures when we confirmed our booking.

Here are just a few shots. These images don't give justice to what we saw and experience but these will do for sharing, I guess.