@ 2 months

Today, Julian turned 2-month old. He is a little big for his age as he weighs 15.5 lbs and is 59cm in height. His pedia said he looked like a 6-month old baby, and he might be a 6-footer someday. Now, he wears 6-9 months sizes of clothes. Julian has quite an appetite too, he is now consuming 4 ounces of milk every 2-3 hours.

This afternoon, I saw Julian turning and sleeping on his right side. He was too cute and really growing fast. When I talk to him, he would answer back in goo-goos and gagas. He would look at me innocently, smile and sometimes even give me a bubbly giggle, that surely melts my heart. I know that I am biased to believe that my baby is special. After all, I am his mother. 

Julian received his 1st dose of Rotavirus and his pedia was amazed at how he consumed the medicine without any trouble. The doctor said it was his first time to give it without any spillage. He also got his 2nd dose of Hepa B vaccine, now this got me a little weak on the knees as I hate to see him being poked with needles. He cried for a few minutes but after giving him some Paracetamol, in orange flavor for the pain and to prevent fever, which he liked again, he was back to his good disposition. 

To celebrate his 2nd monthsary i tried cooking dinner; baked ziti, buffalo wings and mojos. Thankfully, it was a success. His daddy got him a cake and it was fun how he looked amazed on the lighted candle. Every single moment that I spend with him only endears me to him even more. At two months, I realized that I am falling deeply in love again...with my bundle of joy.

Masks of a Man

Masks of a Man

Today, I witnessed various faces of a man. I had a car trouble this morning on my way to work. I tried to become independent but that did not work. You see, my car’s fuel gauge isn’t working so I had to rely on pure estimation if I still have gas based on the kilometre reading, which didn’t seem to work today. The gas station which was about a few meters away from my car and didn’t want to fill my container, it wasn’t the required bottle according to the gas boy. I tried to talk my way still no one from Petron Station (located at Makiling) helped me, so much for good service.
Anyway, so I called my older brother, Kuya Mark and funny when he arrived I noticed that he had the same container as mine, only it was filled with gas. Now, here a real Good Samaritan story in modern times.

1. One who didn’t cared at all. Kuya Mark called this guy in a bicycle and asked if he could help us to push the car for a jump start. We both thought the guy was just trying to cross the road, but then acted like he didn’t hear us and “biked off” (if there was such term).

2. One who acted like he cared but didn’t. We then asked for another guy standing on the sidewalk to help us. My brother and I switched places, he would do the jumpstart and I push the car with the guy. Turned out, I was the only one pushing it as I saw the guy just putting his fingers on the car. Some push, right? Still no luck, the guy left after one push.

3. One who really cared. By this time, I was really sweating like hell and losing hope. This security guard noticed our trouble and quickly ran towards us to help. Another guard came out, offered to help too and even let us inside the factory vicinity to avoid further accidents and traffic.

4. I wanted to add this one character, from the gas station. The one who looked like he had so much fun seeing other people suffer. No help. No nothing. Just an irritating smirk on his face. Now this character is very much common now. The one who wants to see the whole world burn and have fun watching it. Sad.

Things I realized today:

• Estimation is not accurate. (duh it never is…)kidding aside, I should have my car’s fuel gauge fixed pronto.
• I would gladly help a stranger in need. (as long as it’s not bogus)
• I am a firm believer that in the end, still our FAMILY will pull us through…hard/rough times. Thanks Kuya! You’re the best!

Pissed Off

Some days are just worst than others...or better. I believe that one should simply shut up if he/she's got nothing nice to say. It is even more frustrating when stories get mixed up that the lie becomes the truth and vice versa.
The world would become a better place without hipocrasy and pretences. Don't put yourselves on the pedestal, wait til your cold and dead.

Darnest Things: Reminiscin'

• We were having lunch at one of the eat-all-you-can restos, when Sofi saw the lechon. for some it may look yummy but for this kid, she told me, "Wawa pig noh ninang?" Seeing the sad face and hearing this from the little girl, eating it didnt seem so yummy anymore.
• Whenever I visit her at their house, typically Sofi would simply say bye. But by this time, when she would feel that I am planning to go she would shout, "nobody leaves this house!" with a big frown on her face. :) such a princess!
• Tisha is already at 6th grade and I felt really old when I read her FB status saying, "Who is hottteeerrrrr Jason Lautner or Robert Pattinson???" :) i can still remember putting this baby to sleep, making her milk, teaching her kikay stuff...:)

Darnest Things

Kids say the darnest things...well, moms and dads too and a whole lot of people...:)

• Some agent from the phone company offered mom to add just 250 bucks to our current phone line (which I was the one paying) to enjoy unlimited landline calls. Mom told the agent she would ask me first and she did it at the most perfect time, when I just woke up. Obviously, I don't remember such an encouter and guess what? she has upgraded our cellphone line, ironically the one I was considering of downgrading. nice...
• funny lang: I bought my dear niece, Sofi, a hello kitty balloon, which she so loooveed! Sulit ang 50 pesos ko! Her mom was texting me even after we went home that night, Sofi never let go of Kitty (its the balloon) even when she slept. The next day, my sister again texted me that Sofi was still playing with Kitty as soon as she woke up. In the afternoon, I received another message saying, "Bad news. lumipad si Kitty." how sad...
• I never wanted to see my dear pamangkins devastated, when I talked to Sofi on the phone, I told her "Kitty is here. At papu's house." Sofi couldn't believe what she heard, she answered, "Oh! I wanna go there ninang!" (while I was writing this, I luckily found the same balloon from a man selling it on the streets when I was going to work. pulled my car on the sidewalk and bought it. :)
• Ok so, I finally found some time to update this entry. :) I watched new Shrek movie in 3D with Tish and Sofi. It was our first time to try 3D. I knew we weren't allowed to bring home the glasses but I took one as a souvenir (Sorry Imax, my bad). I gave it to Sofi and my sister called me days after that Sofi was always wearing the 3D glasses everytime they watch TV. :) hehe
• I was missing my "pamangkins" and told my sister I would pick them up to stay here in Batangas. My mom told me "kidnapin mo na kasi!" By the way, she also told my sister that I would kidnap the kids. Way to go mom! How could we do it when you told the kids mother of our master plan. :) So now we had to wait until the weekend. Boo!
• I was with a medrep friend and the security in one of the hospitals we were covering were really tight. He didn't have his ID and I forgot to claim mine from the previous hospital I went to. I had to charm my way to the guard to let me in. I even denied knowing my friend saying I think he's a driver or a patient. After making too much pa-cuteness, he allowed me in. After an hour or so, the guard walked to me and said in a whispering/chismoso manner, "Akala ko ba di mo kilala yun?" Apparently, he saw me talking to my friend. haha...you got me sir! :) Sorry. trabaho lang walang personalan. :) Thankfully, he didn't kicked me out. :) (mabait naman ako...hehe)
• When I read from twitter."excited for Philippines first black vice president" found it funny...and Binay took it all in good taste. :) he was even proud of it.
• One of the hairdressers I go to, got into a motorcycle accident. My hairdresser, Yari told me how bad his colleague was, itago natin sya sa pangalang Arnie. I felt bad but I wasn't able to laught at how Yari described what Arnie looked like. "Naku teh, mukang terminator!" (that must be really bad...) He's doing fine now, btw.

CRAZY THOUGHTS

I was just wondering, it took just a day for the local candidates to be proclaimed winners, a few days for the senators and now almost two weeks and still no result for the VP and President.
Now it saddening to watch the news with all these crazy discrepancies with the past election.

Clueless Voter

Election is less than a week and I am still clueless of who to vote for. Watching those documentaries featuring the candidates for president, vice president and senators somehow helped on who "not" to vote. :)

To quote Mr Beltran, he said, "why are we voting for Noynoy? 1. fear of Villar 2. Anger at Gloria 3. Nostalgia for Cory." Somehow this analysis makes sense to me whenever I ask other people whom they would be voting for. He is right that these 3 emotions (fear, anger and nostalgia) should not be the reason for choosing a president. I have nothing against Noynoy, I love his parents. I just feel that he is not yet ready. He could be a president but maybe just not yet...

For Villar, I feel that this man has planned his future ever since. He has the most planned strategies out all the 9 candidates for presidency. He has expressed his desire to run early on that he already has an answer for a 5 or 10 year plan. Sadly, he is burdened with those issues somehow pulls him down from those surveys. (I dont believe in surveys btw)

For Gordon, hmmm apart from he is my brod from Upsilon Sigma Phi, I believe that he very capable in becoming a leader. He has proven this seeing the projects he has spearheaded such as Wow Philippines and his pride the Philippine Red Cross.

For Gibo, I must admit that at first I have never considered him at all. But after watching those documentaries I have decided that this man is really intelligent and serious with his job. He has honestly admitted that he came from a rich family but he knows how to work.

For the others, Brother Eddie, Jamby, JC de los Reyes they all have one reason for running, it to stop the corruption in the government, "iahon sa kahirapan," and all those crap. I believe that they can help with the change in other ways. I admire their passion dont get me wrong. I just think that we could all use these type of passion for the betterment of our country and it only needs to start in us.

So enough said of these presidentiables. On a lighter note, I know that we should always look for the substance and not just what we see physically. I still believe that how these candidates look matter, for one of them would be the face of our country in the next 6 years. I cant help but also look at the next First Lady. :) I must say that Gibo's wife is really first lady material. :)

Elections 2010...It is our right to vote...It is our responsibility...

Vote wisely...

Rest

REST (rst)

NOUN:

~Cessation of work, exertion, or activity.
~ Peace, ease, or refreshment resulting from sleep or the cessation of an activity.
~ Sleep or quiet relaxation.
~ Relief or freedom from disquiet or disturbance.
~ Mental or emotional tranquillity.
~ Free from anxiety or distress.

WISH I COULD HAVE ONE...REALITY BITES...

EARTH DAY 2010

GLOBAL WARMING IS NO LAUGHING MATTER

TIME TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT...

IN OUR OWN LITTLE WAYS,

WE CAN MAKE A CHANGE...

NO BETTER TIME THAN TODAY.

LET US ALL BE INVOLVED.

Back to the basics

My 30-60day weight loss plan: (hope it works...)

1. Jog/brisk walking 3x a week for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. (still cheapest form of exercise). Any form of exercise that gets your heart beating hard...;)



2. As suggested, back to counting calories. Should eat not more that 800 calories per day. Eat until satisfied not full. Metabolism slows down when stomach is always full.



3. Breakfast is a must. No dinner or if could not be avoided (esp in parties) then no rice...:)






4. I would be swearing off on chocolates (I find this hard since I am a chocoholic), cakes, ice cream and chips. Only fruits, gelatins and yoghurt are allowed. boohoo!






5. 5. Drink on water! water! water!...(when hunger pang strikes, water is the best medicine.:)






6. Lessen eating out and no fast foods! (no more cheeseburgers, fries and all those stuff) - in the long run this would even have a positive effect on my wallet :) So I would be eating it if it's free...haha...



7. Get my 8 hours of sleep. I read in an article that lack of sleep affects the hormones in the body and even if a person is in activity imbalances do occur. thus results to weight gain. I am no scientist but I think being up all night makes us eat more snacks, drink more coffee/Starbucks frap for some and this adds to our calorie intake that goes unnoticed.



8. Get a buddy. It's always nice to share this goal with someone. :)

Song for you...

In memory of a dear loved one...

You will forever be in our hearts...

Thursday Thirteen

I have been MIA on the blog-o-sphere again. Total change in the routine came up that my blogging life had to take a backseat for a while. Anyway, I am hoping to still post when I get the chance. :)
I ran into this new meme that I wanted to try. List thirteen things that you have in mind. For this entry, I am posting thirteen things I want to do for this year.

1. Go back to 100lbs. the right diet, at least try to do my jog routine again, no more fast foods again.
2. Optimistic/Adventurous. Ignore the negative. Do things without worrying to much on the what ifs.
3. Travel. (wow rich?) hehe but seriously, I want to see more places. Life is too short, I have to enjoy it while I am still young...:) sulitin ang cebu pacific promos
4. Pay myself everyday. From my previous blogs, I have decided to do a doctor's advice and pay myself literally. Then, enjoy the reaps of that savings later. :)
5. Learn how to play any musical instrument. Continue my guitar lessons...(my fingers hurt...booohooo)
6. Go domestic. i really want to learn how to cook real food...(perfect ko na ang fried egg, hotdog, corned beef, tuna) Moving up to the next level and try to create real dishes...(may salad na kong perpekto...:)
7. Sleep at least 8 hours a day...no more late nights. (at least try...)
8. Read a new book every month...(kunwari intellectual hehe)
9. Finally, push thru with the "business thing" (as i've said on no.2 no more what ifs )
10. Spend more time with the fam...
11. Move on with my poker dream :) kaya ko to... haha
12. Speak up.
13. Be a better person...(in general hehe)

Friday Fill-ins #4

1. Plans and schedules _______ .

crazy


2. I'm happy when things _______ .

go my way.. ;)

3. The last thing I drank was _______ .

fruitshake (mix of grapes, orange, red and green apple, mango)

4. One of the most valuable things in my life is _______ .

my childhood pillow...:) (can't sleep without 'em)


5. I like _______ on my pizza.

hot sauce


6. Dear November, _______ .

please be kind with me :)


7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _____, tomorrow my plans include _____ and Sunday, I want to _____!

And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to dinner with friends, tomorrow my plans include starting my christmas shopping and Sunday, I want to rest but I have important meeting (related to work) and birthday celebration of the November celebs (Kujules, A.Ves & dear Sofi)!

Camera Critters #2

Found this striped frog as the storm was brewing...

Make Monday Matter #1

Monday gets a bum rap. Let’s work to change that by making something
positive out of the most dreaded of all days…

Today I am starting again my diet and daily jog. I also starting with a different division in the company carrying "Ketosteril," new set of products to promote but same old me...:)


to join this meme just click on the logo above...:)

Camera Critters

It's a mini pin love...

Fiona's newborns

Friday Fill-Ins

And...here we go!

1. The crickets sing, _____.

i love you's

2. ___________ wherever you are.

My heart is with you


3. I want to get far away from the ___________.

mumu monsters

4. ___________; this was a dream.

I was chased by snakes; this was a dream.

5. But as for me ___________.

But as for me, I have no idea what it means.

6. ___________ I come from.

Home of the brave and the famous Barako coffee is where I come from.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _____, tomorrow my plans include _____ and Sunday, I want to _____!

And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to feeding my puppies, tomorrow my plans include still feeding my puppies, enjoy the fiesta and play some poker with friends and Sunday, I want to have my puppies' tails docked and some R & R!

RATS

It has been more than 2 weeks since the disastrous typhoons hit our country, and they have long gone our vicinity. Though the sad aftermaths are still felt by some of our fellowmen. I can still remember how I told my older sister to try to walk through the flood since they're just a few blocks away from their house. They attended an activity at my niece's school that morning and was advised to go home as the flood was closing the highway. They followed my advise, parked their car in a gas station, carried some of their bags and 2 kids and went through the waist-high flood. Thankfully, they all got home safe.

Last Thursday, I learned from a friend, that her cousin was diagnosed with Leptospirosis. She had to swim through the flood in Manila. The symptoms didn't led quickly to the disease. A week before she first experienced diarrhea, fever, some flu-like symptoms that eventually led to weakness, fatigue, decrease in appetite and absence of any urine output. She was in severe stage of the disease and underwent an emergency dialysis, since they said it was the only cure for it. She would need at least 3 sessions and see if there would be an improvement.

After hearing this story, I felt alarmed that yes, we would all consider swimming the floods just to stay alive. But then again, even after the storm has long gone, its effects are still felt.

For more info regarding Leptospirosis, please read on here: RATS

Stability

[sta-bil-i-ty]

noun. a condition of being stable. Encarta.

It's what I need right now...what I am hoping for...what I am aiming for...

We live in a crazy world where a constant change exists...

How do we attain this? I absolutely am boggled.

Friday Fill-Ins

And...here we go!

1. Sweet dreams _____.

Sweet dreams everyone!

2. ___________ especially for me.

Pain stakingly made especially for me.

3. Silliness ___________.

Silliness secret to stay young (at heart).

4. ___________ this Halloween.

Psychedilec costumes this Halloween.

5. Outstanding or not ___________.

Outstanding or not prepared :)

6. ___________ is what I want right now!

Stability is what I want right now!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _____, tomorrow my plans include _____ and Sunday, I want to _____!

And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to blog my heads off, tomorrow my plans include a cookout with my pamangkins and a Saturday poker night with the guys and Sunday, I want to sleep late and try my luck with baking (courtesy of mom's new oven!)!

Friday Fill-Ins

And...here we go!

1. I have a history of _____.

being a kikay-vet during college. vet student and a Sigma Deltan...:)

2. ___________ is something I wish I knew.

The secret to the mysteries of the world

3. I'm eating (or recently ate) ___________.

Red ribbon's banana-crunch. love it! :)

4. ___________ on the road.

Keep safe

5. So that's it, that's ___________.

me not giving up but simply taking my time to figure out what to do next.


6. ___________ better than nothing!

Trying is..

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _____, tomorrow my plans include _____ and Sunday, I want to _____!

And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to cuddle up on my warm to bed, tomorrow my plans include sleeping late, hoping the storm wouldn't be that bad & some Poker nights with the gang and Sunday, I want to cook a nice yummy breakfast and take time for some R & R!

Gear Up!

As the country is just picking up from the aftermaths of the typhoon "Ondoy," here comes another one. According to PAGASA, the next one, typhoon "Peping" would be stronger and expected to bring in rain and disastrous winds (175-210 kph) as compared to Ondoy which brought heavy rainfall that caused the unbelievable flooding in Metro Manila and near provinces.

From these latest updates, let us all be prepared for the next one. Make sure to stock some food and other basic necessities at home. Please try to get to the safest place where you could stay. Above all, let us all pray for everyone's safety.

For updates, check out: TYPHOON2000

FOR SALE: GLOBE TATTOO

FOR SALE: GLOBE TATTOO UNLIMITED WI-FI CARD FOR 6 MONTHS.
Php2, 000 (neg)

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday !!!

to my dearest Mom

and her twin Tita Norma (I call her Mama) :)

False Advertising

I am currently working in a sales industry and am aware that every booked sales/"benta" is very much important. Though, despite the high targets/quotas that we need to aim, I have never succumb to providing false deals/offers just to make a client get the product. I believe that my product itself speaks for its good quality and that getting their trust is much more important that giving them false information that sooner or later would affect my job and myself as an individual.
I have recently been a victim of such situation. I thought that the package I got with my laptop comes with a memory upgrade, free OS and a free Globe tattoo unlimited internet for 6 months. I got the first two when I bought it and was informed that the Globe tattoo sticker was not available and I would be informed the following week when I could avail it. Since I have no choice, I went home sans the said internet kit. After a week, I received no calls from the store so I decided to call them instead. I spoke to the salesman whom handled my purchase, and learned that the sticker that I would present to the main office was not yet available. I said and requested that he call me once it is available for pick up. Two days after, the salesman called to inform that I can simply drop by the store to get the sticker. I asked for other details such as other documents needed and stuff.
The following day, I went to the store to get the sticker. My salesman wasn't there so I talked to the one on the counter. I didn't appreciate the fact that the woman told me she was not aware of such promo and that I should simply wait for the cashier, who was on a 30-minute lunch break. By this time, I was simply trying to control nerves as coming from a sales, nor the fact that I was trained from my sorority that we must always try to please our clients. Never say "I do not know...but instead say I will try to find out." Anyway, I waited for 30 minutes, when I came back still the cashier was not aware of it. I called my salesman, from the number he used to call me and he said that he would call the store. The ladies on the counter who was supposed to be aware of these promos was of course not helpful at this time.
One of the salesman, butted in, probably sensing that I am about to burst from the inefficiency of his colleagues conveniently produced the said sticker. When I was about to avail it to the main store, I found out that it was not a Globe tattoo kit but a Globe tattoo card with unlimited wifi access to all globe hotspots for 6 months. I was made to believe that I would be receiving a kit only to find out that I was supposed to go to these hotspot places to have a free unlimited access. How convenient for someone who is based in the province.

Lesson of the story: ask...ask...ask...hmp!

Just When...

Somedays everything sucks. But just when, we thought everything does...

"We must try not to sink between our anguish but BATTLE ON!"

Yep, that's the spirit! :)

Nail Fetish

I have been enjoying growing my nails long and painting it with crazy nail polish. Just recently, I am hooked to having nail art designs. I simply love it.:)

I am hoping my brother, Kirby could find me my own set. :)

Caffeine kick

I am on a caffeine high...getting all the palpitations, wide-eyed, insomnia, happy moment

Cancer anecdotes

It was only when I worked in a hospital with a Cancer Institute, that increasing prevalence of such illness came true to me. I have seen patients come in with just a simple complaint of cough only realizing after several tests that they got more than a cough syrup could cure. I have seen families still in false hopes, denials that their loved one is not seriously sick, blaming the technology, the MDs, or even a simple nurse like me why such pain is being felt. Ironically, based from my exposure, I have had about 7 out of 10 patients diagnosed with lung cancer who are not even smokers to start with. I got asked by one young lung cancer patient, if I smoke and answered him "no, sir." He advised me to smoke, as it won't make a difference anyway. I felt the bitterness in his voice and I could only put a meek smile and answer with silence for I knew it how hard it could have been for him. He was still young, newly wed and had a young daughter that he felt he had so little time to spend with. I am well aware that I should not get involved emotionally to my patients as I know it would hinder my judgement. But in such cases, I could not help but feel sadness, and it is through these instances that I feel thankful for everything I have even for what I do not have.
I have experienced handling three toxic cancer patients, all holding on for dear life, or their families seemed to be doing it for them. I was summoned every minute or two (no exageration), by each one of them and even came to a point that relatives all looked out from their rooms calling for me, shouting for help as fear of nearing death could be seen from their eyes. I feel for them all and tried my best to provide the care that they needed.
The illness has brought so much realizations and maturity to me that have somehow helped me go through now. I have learned to cherish each moment and each day. It has given me a significant lesson that I have never learned in my years of studying. We may memorize all the theories, studies, dates and formulas but what will always matter during these times and how we could cope with the emotions that the patient and his loved ones are experiencing. Respect, love and understanding.

Movie Marathon

I just saw the flick, "Land of the Lost," and boy, did Will Farrell made me laugh! He was so funny even if he's not doing anything. I really had a fun time watching this film. :)

The recent movie by Sacha Cohen, Bruno, got me both weirded out and laughed my heads off. I find it amazing how he could change his whole image from Borat to Bruno. Definitely not a kid movie...:)

Short Term Goals

Realizing that I am not getting any younger and that the future also means getting older, I had to set some short term goals. Something that would lead me to my long term goals or would help make the journey smoother...:)

• Save...save...save
• Start counting calories again...;)
• Read a new book...(I have to buy another Paulo Coelho...)
• Start sleeping early...(still an insomniac...)
• Do my regular jog...(I still believe that this is the cheapest exercise...)
• Be more optimistic...not to worry to much and go crazy thinking of the what ifs...
• Stop cutting my hair...I miss my long locks...(I dont know how this would help in my long term goals...well anyway, I still included it)
• Smile more...Mind over matter...
• Let go of things that could not be undone...:)
• Start my Christmas list and shopping...( Christmas is just a few months away..."ber" months na!)
  

That's it for now...I have a million short term goals that I would keep to myself for now...:)

A Doctor's Financial Advise

I had a wonderful conversation with one of my MDs and he told me that at my age, I should be paying myself. I asked him what he meant with paying myself. He said that I should give myself a sort of price that I am supposed to pay every month. This is apart from the savings that I want to have. If I do this, by the age of 30, I could have a million to myself. After that insightful conversation, I told myself hey I could do that. No more luxuries for me...or maybe a little...I deserve to pamper myself once in a while, but I would try that"paying myself concept."
Having seen how it paid off for him, there's no harm in trying...:) Who knows I could try being a millionaire earlier than that...:)
Maybe you guys could do it too...:)

Ninoy Aquino’s Love Poem for Cory

The late national hero Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, Jr., wrote this poem for his wife, former president Corazon C. Aquino, decades ago. Composer and singer Jose Mari Chan later set the piece into music and included it in his album, Constant Change.

I have fallen in love
with the same woman three times;
In a day spanning 19 years
of tearful joys and joyful tears.
I loved her first when she was young,
enchanting and vibrant, eternally new.
She was brilliant, fragrant,and cool as the morning dew.

I fell in love with her the second time;
when first she bore her child and mine
always by my side, the source of my strength,
helping to turn the tide.But there were candles to burn
the world was my concern;
while our home was her domain.
and the people were mine
while the children were hers to maintain;

So it was in those eighteen years and a day.
’till I was detained; forced in prison to stay.

Suddenly she’s our sole support;
source of comfort,our wellspring of Hope.
on her shoulders felt the burden of Life.

I fell in love again,with the same woman the third time.
Looming from the battle,

her courage will never fade

Amidst the hardships she has remained,

undaunted and unafraid.

she is calm and composed,
she is God’s lovely maid.

Game master

My nephew, Yohan celebrated his 6th birthday last Saturday and I was amazed as to how this little boy/birthday celebrant/game master become. He said he wants an adult game for his birthday. My other nieces weren't able to come home for the party so an adult game is just perfect. I had fun listening to his elaborate explanations and comments, beginning with the rules of the game and his side comments in every questions.
We all ask him to introduce himself first before the game started but he got a bit shy. But his dad simply asked him why we were all there and he smartly answered, "Everyone's here 'cause its my birthday. I am Yohan btw, and I am the game master." with such class and confidence like a real game master should be. Nobody taught him to say those words but coming from such a young kid I am proud to say, that's my nephew. :)

Happy birthday to my super "bibo" nephew! I had a great Japanese dinner (thanks to your chef/dad)

King of Pop Says Goodbye

I saw on CNN how two anchor hosts fought each other re: the real deal with MJ. One was saying how MJ was such a hypocrite and that he was not a real humanitarian for if he really is, he should have donated more than the amount he was regularly giving to the children foundation MJ was sponsoring. The other anchor was defending MJ that the former shouldn't say such things against MJ and rather directly asked him what has he donated. $100,00 was more than enough as compared to not giving anything at all. MJ may have faced numerous negative issues these past years but let us remember that he had once conquered the pop scene. He was once and for some still is an idol. He was the King of Pop.

Let us remember MJ as the one who gave us different view on music and dance moves. Now, reminiscing his amazing music videos, it all came back to me. that MJ truly deserved to be the king of pop! Black or White, Beat it, Thriller...the list of great song goes on...

You will be missed...but your music will linger...

GITTERS

As the song goes, "it's the final countdown...tanananatanatantantan...tanananatananantantantantan..."

Just two more days and this is it! Judgement day... It's my first time to be in this certain situation though, I have had my experience of being presented when I was still applying in my sorority. I'm just scared that I might break or what if I forgot something...or what if I can't give the right answers. Pressure! The hardest advice I have received was "don't think." Or maybe it should be don't think too much...:)

I am simply psyching myself that I can do this even if my knees are shaking. I have been feeling nauseous from all the hype. I wanted to get this over with. All I have with me are my product knowledge (hopefully would be enough) and my personality (which again I hope would pass their standards...) :)

I was touched with what one of my co-trainees told me after I did one of our detailing sessions...He passed me a message saying: YOU GO MORE THAN BEYOND...
I will start to think more of this and enough of the pessimism.

Goodluck to me...and to the other hopefuls...

Things I Missed Out on...

I was deprived of my net privileges as I am currently in the middle of a big career change.
Things I missed out blogging about:

• Cris Allen won the AI...who was my actual bet of winning the contest...:) congrats to him...
• the recent sex scandals involving local starlets and a doctor, which have become the hottest video to see this weekend. I totally feel sorry for everyone who was affected by the spread of it. I still believe in privacy and trust. Too bad both was taken for granted by the people who did it.
• I won our weekend Poker for a Cause Tourney! yey! my first time to see my name on the first place...:) A portion of the pot was given to a family whose newborn son was diagnosed with hydrocephalus and is currently being treated at PGH. Please pray for the poor child...
• My first days of my training in my new job.
• Realizations of the vast race of human beings and their various personalities.
  
• Walking in high heels for how many blocks...as my co-trainees call it, "Tiis Ganda."
• Wont be able to enroll in my masterals at UPOU for this semester. sad...
• Getting a call in the wee hours in morning from my big sister asking me what meds my niece can take since she seems to having a flu and a mean sore throat.
• Celebrating Mother's Day with mom, her twin sis, my SIL Ate Joan and my cousin Chona at Crustaceans....eating a very scrumptious meal. plus getting a heart attack when we saw the bill, which my cousin, Chona coolly handled. Imagine eating one crab worth 3k...hahaha that was one pretty delicious crab! Thanks cuz!
  

Cry Baby

Allison is out in AI...I wasn't a big fan of her but she sure can sing really. My fearless forecast even happened. Three guys would actually compete for the finale. I was a little teary eyed watching her trying to look strong and like everything's fine but tears lined her face that just simply showed that she's still human. The competition though has already established from the start that despite being a singing competition it still is a texting competition. It all comes down to who gets the most number of votes. Talent is just not the key to win it. You gotta have a strong hold with the texting viewers to bring home the bacon. :)

May 20 is the finale...next week the three survivors would be doing a home coming, the usual AI program. :) I do have the AI bug.:) I think it's Cris who would win it...haha...:) I love Adam though... just doing a little fearless forecast again...:)

8 Things

Read this tag from Rach thought I'd do it too...=) here's mine...


The 8 Tag

8 Things I'm Looking Forward To
1. Good night sleep...
2. Going jogging and playing frisbee tomorrow.
3. Starting in my new job.:)
4. Eating out.
5. Playing poker with friends and tourneys.
6. Getting my new phone.
7. Playing with my pamangkins.
8. Shopping. :)

8 Things I Did Yesterday
1. Woke up late.(same with rach...=)
2. Did my clearance at my former hospital.
3. Had a meeting with Dr.A, who thought I was a medrep.:)
4. Got some $$$ before I closed my account.
5. Claimed our new atms...:)
6. Completed requirements and application forms for our new phones with mom.
7. Applied for a new phone line.
8. Shopped for new threads.:)

8 Things I Wish I Could Do
1. Travel.
2. Shop without looking at price tags.:)
3. study photography.
4. Study culinary arts.
5. Have members of my family to quit smoking.
6. Visit my brother in US.
7. be a professional poker player
8. Speak another foreign language...:)

8 Shows I Watch
1. American Idol
2. Grey's Anatomy
3. Discovery Channel
4. Bizzare taste
5. Myth Busters
6. Smallville
7. Star wars
8. Heroes

8 People I Tag
I'm opening this tag to anyone interested.

AI again!

I think I've been having the AI bug...:) Can't wait to see tonight's show. I was originally rooting for Megan Corkey who was eliminated a little early. Now my vote goes 50/50 for Chris and Adam...:) Although, they're all obviously great singers. Everyone says this is the best season ever. :)Good luck to them and I'm just hoping for a really nice show. :)

Sad Day

I went to Manila today, had to submit all my requirements for my new job and sadly, I lost my precious phone. I had no idea how I lost it. The last time I knew I still have it was when I was having some of my documents photocopied in a nearby photocopy establishment in our building. The room was packed with customers and maybe somebody took advantage of that situation and my weakness. =(
I really love that mobile phone. It was a gift from my very best friend. I felt like a part of me really got lost with it. All my contacts were there, photos, music, videos, letters, and files. I even have 2 volumes of Paulo Coelho novels in that phone. Really, really sad =( It was just my first time to lose something when I am out. Just got really frustrated that I could be that preoccupied. booohooo....
Oh well, I just have to ponder on my loss for now...such a sad day. The sentimental in me kicks in...

King of the Ring

It’s another win for the “Pambansang Kamao!” He did it with a sweeter, faster and a great finish. The fight lasted just for two rounds, with Hatton knocked out twice during the first round and a one mighty punch from Manny ultimately put the former flat on his back. The deafening noise from the Brits on the start of the fight was a contrast to a deafening silence after. Truly, Manny Pacquiao has proven a point that he is a damn fine boxer and his fists are no match for any wonder boy of any country.

It was noticeable how Manny has showed his faith as he knelt on his corner of the ring and said a prayer before and after the fight. Good brawl, Pacman! You’ve again united every Pinoy even for that short period and given us something to be proud of.

Maskin' countries

We all have a collector's heart in us. I was thrilled when I saw my friend's dad's collection of masks. Each came from different countries. I was wonderful seeing how different cultures express their creativity in a piece of mask. I especially love the one from India and the one with one hand covering its left eye, it's just unique from all the others.

What about you? what do you collect? :)

Who's got talent?

I just heard from friends how a 42 year-old contestant named Susan Boyle wowed the judges with her amazing voice at Britain's Got Talent show. I missed that show so I decided to watch an excerpt of it at YouTube. She would have been dismissed just by looking at her but when she sang, her voice was just simply angelic. This is the perfect example of never judging the book by its cover. Everybody's got the talent, it's just a matter of being proud of it.
For those who haven't seen her simply click on here

The Ultimate Frisbee

My friends and I were thinking of a new physical activity that we could all be engaged into. Mostly all we do is play the usual poker, guys do their usual basketball games. While doing some window shopping the other day, we came upon this round plastic called "Frisbee." Everyone reminisced how they played during their younger days. Then, without a doubt we just simply bought the thing.

I have played before but wasn't really familiar with the exact rules of the game. I decided to research about it and, man, was I amazed that there were various ways to play the game. I suddenly realized that I would be playing with several really tall guys. I feel somewhat inadequate on the vertical part. :)

Heads or Tails #86

REASON FOR LIVING/LEAVING

Just had my last day of duty yesterday. Ironic that on my very last day, I was all alone. The hospital was cutting down on staff as there was a decrease in census due to the past Lenten holiday. I had the entire MS ward all to myself. I was handling 2 long term patients. One was suffering from lung cancer st. IV and the other was a post-CVA patient. Both required me to spend a lot of time with them with all the feedings, turning schedules, cleaning up and medicating stuff. I tried to enjoy my last day being on duty. After the 8-hour shift, I endorsed 4 patients and quietly bid my colleagues goodbye. No sadness just optimism that I know we will all be seeing each other again.

I decided to take a rest from the nursing world. Making that decision had been difficult for me as I had to consider a lot of things, after all, this was my life...my future at stake here. I asked several friends and took all their given opinions with great consideration. I was experiencing a burn out from the hospital. I feel that there weren't enought benefits for nurses. We were overworked and underpaid. What made the decision of leaving harder was I came to enjoy the company of my colleagues there. We were all like a family, that despite the very little salary we get the relationship was really to be treasured. I could never have found such better colleagues in them. I know that some would want to be in my position to be practicing my profession as some even have to pay the hospital just for the experience. But I had to go out, I know that there is more for me out there. simply waiting to get discovered and experienced. I had to move out of my comfort zone and try to live out my life. I had to get out of the box, see and feel the world that I have been missing out.
I will try to excel in this quest that I am about to pursue on...until then. Being an RN doesn't stop when I resign...it will forever be instilled in my heart.

Back

After long months of hibernation, I decided it's time to come out again. Been absent from the blog-o-sphere for such a long time. I missed typing my thoughts away. I went back to doing my old school journal thing. :) Anyway, this time things would be different around here. :)

This is a new year...new opportunities...new life....hmmmm breathe in and breathe out.:)

Wish List

It is sad that Christmas has become a chance for people to value material things than the true meaning of the season it represents. Let us not forgot why we are even celebrating it. Anyhow, I am still making my wish list. ;)
1. Panini maker...sure would love one...really do... :)
2. laptop...I'd like to trade my desktop for a handy dandy laptop...(Santa are you getting this? I've been a good girl. you see...)
3. tv...(do i have to explain? im a self confessed couch potato)
4. ipod--- to replace the one that got stolen...huhuhu
5. nike water bottle...(i just wanted it)
6. bling (dear are you reading this?) still got more...to be updated...:)

Most importantly, all I want for Christmas is having my family close to me, all healthy and happy. :)

Gone Fishing

Went fishing a few months back, just had the chance to blog again though. When I was young, I've gone fishing but kinda just watched as my older sibs and cousins do it. So technically, it was my first fishing trip and got the best lesson from my friend's dad.
The real story was a week before the scheduled fishing trip, we were just hanging out at our friend's house, the usual Saturday poker night, when our friend's dad suggested that we should all go with him fishing. Learn a new hobby and be one with nature. We all looked at each, waiting what to say, smiled and feeling we have no other choice...we agreed, so the following week, fishing it is!

I enjoyed the fishing a lot, though I plan to dress appropriately next time. Shorts and a shirt sure is cool but the sun's rays tend to be a little harsh on the skin...I figured clam digger pants and a fishing hat is a must next time. :)

Things I learned:

• It takes great patience to catch a fish. It's not an instant thing. Usually we just end up feeding them the lures but not actually catching them. :)
• as I have mentioned above, dress to fish...:)
• pick a good spot, have a comfy chair to sit and wait til they bite.:)
• Never give up after a few unsuccessful attempts... :) just like in life...

Interested in a detailed lesson, I found out this wonderful site all about fishing...so take me fishing :)

Heads or Tails #49

HEADS - Doctor

I have my own list of favorite doctors. Being a nurse, I encounter a variety of APs with distinct character. :)
1. Dr. B - the "heart" doctor... Such a friendly, really funny and reliable physician. Do rounds everyday, never gets angry or acts like a "primadonna-type", always smiling, knows every nurse and employees by first name basis.
2. Dr. S - "IM"... does daily rounds 2x or sometimes 3x a day. nice penmanship. always smiling. reponds to text messages quickly. appreciates what you do to his patients.

These two were my top picks. Though, most doctors where I work at were really nice, I simply couldn't resist not to be biased and my colleagues would agree to this. :)

Some just have some distinct character that makes them one of kind but then again...thanks to them...