Monday, December 24, 2007

December 24, 2007

It's Christmas Eve here in the Philippines, and we're spending it with in my Aunt's house, also here in Paranaque. My cousins are here, but unlike last year, the little ones (my nephew & niece) are far away. The quiet is something to get used to.

Our Noche Buena (Christmas Dinner) came very early. Instead of having it at 12 Midnight, we had our Noche Buena at 10:00PM. We had some Pancit Malabon, Barbecued Pork Ribs, Baked Salmon, Mango Salsa, Lettuce Lumpia, & I forgot what else we had... Hehehe...

Right now, we're preparing to open our gifts... Haaayyy... Christmas this year is truly a peaceful & quiet one.

So, from our family to yours...

HAVE A VERY PEACEFUL, BLESSED CHRISTMAS & A BOUNTIFUL & SAFE NEW YEAR!!!

Thursday, December 20, 2007

December 20, 2007

Its 5 days 'til Christmas, and yet I didn't see it coming... Call it POVERTY.

I just realized how being "in financial need" can take all the Holiday Spirit away. It sucks the fun out of the season. Well, I think I am not the only one in the Philippines to feel down & out this Christmas. Everyone's tightening their belts in hopes of saving up enough money for a decent Noche Buena (Christmas Dinner). Some haven't even started with their Christmas shopping (myself included)!

I thought I was on track with my Christmas Budget, until last Saturday. Well, I am not complaining, but I just never imagined that once before, I didn't care about money at all.

See, I went to a mini-reunion with my girl-friends from HSBC Fraud: Anne, Rachael, Camille & Karisa. We had dinner at Amoroma, which was very long overdue (Camille's been inviting us to eat there since we were in HSBC 2 years ago). For just a plate of Puttanesca, I spent 3 days worth of my allowance!!! That wouldn't have bothered me at all in the first 3 months of this year...

After dinner, we all decided to make most of our time together by going Clubbing at The Fort. I changed clothes & cracked open my tightly shut piggybank to get some money that'll get me by the rest of the evening.

We all went to Cuisine at the Embassy Bar to check out the scene. They were playing House Music, but nothing much was going on. It was even bordering on boring. So, we left (after a mid-priced drink with expensive tax & service charge) & went to Piedra.

We decided not to get drinks in Piedra anymore, since it was already quite late & we've already consumed 2 bottles of wine at dinner. Piedra was a whole new story. They played Hip-Hop/RNB Music, which I dig much better. They also had a more happening crowd. Everyone was dancing & not just standing around. The girls would tease me into taking the straps of my shirt down, but I'd always pull it back up. Hehehe. Fun, really.

All in all, I spent a week's worth of my allowance money in 1 night of partying. Tsk! Tsk! But I wouldn't trade it for the world! It's been forever since I've been with my Sissies, and I'd pay much more (if I can afford to) for another day with them. I miss talking to them everyday & bonding with them.

Those were the days...

In school, we just finished our 1st Community Rotation in Caloocan & it was ok. The highlight of my day was meeting John Andrei. He's soooo cute! He's a very healthy 4-month old baby boy who went to the Clinic to have his colds checked. I had a lot of pics taken with him 'coz he was just soooo... Ugh! He's just an Angel!

The worst thing about my day?!? I tell you... Nursing worries me sometimes... On our downtime at the Clinic, a patient sat beside me venting out her frustration at how long its been taking her to get her medicines from the Clinic. Turns out, she's got Pulmonary Tuberculosis!!! Aaaarrggghhh!!! I wanna see a Doctor, pronto!!! Oh Jesus!!! I hope I don't get contaminated!!!

So, that's the way it is right now... It's truly been a long time since I last posted anything, so I decided to post.

Just in case it comes & I am unable to swing by an Internet Cafe...

HAVE A BLESSED CHRISTMAS & A PEACEFUL & BOUNTIFUL NEW YEAR!!!

Saturday, November 24, 2007

November 24, 2007

To those who celebrate it... Belated Happy Thanksgiving!!! Hope you had a great turkey with yummy stuffing! Mmmm...

But to my bestest buddy, Tatee Lubaton... HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! I hope you had a fun time on your Birthday. Miss you so much, Tateekins! Much love! Mwah!

Today was the start of our REAL duty at the Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, and it was a BLAST!!! I had a real good time, and it wasn't that hard at all!!!

We started our duty at 8:00AM in the Pediatrics Ward. We were given a tour by our Clinical Instructor, Mrs. Baltazar, and she subsequently, assigned us to Patients. We had to take their Vital Signs & assess their status. I was assigned to 6-day old Don-Ver Acosta.

Don-Ver was confined in the Pedia Ward straight from the NICU, after Birth to complete his medications, since he was a Preemie (Don-Ver was born 2 months premature). He was very tiny, but he had great Vitals. His heart was beating loud & clear, he's got normal breath rates & he was well behaved. He also sucked great when he was fed. Don-Ver is such a pleasant baby. He didn't fuss or cry when I was taking his Vitals, unlike the other babies in the ward.

I also met other babies & their Moms. Some of the babies that caught my attention were Baby Princess, Baby Mark Darelle, Baby Jasmine & the 3 other babies in Don-Ver's ward.

Princess is a year old with Down Syndrome. She was rail thin due to dehydration she got from her heart medication. She's also quite small for her age. She looked like she was only 6 or 7 months old. I guess it was because of the delayed development caused by Down Syndrome. She was hospitalized due to Pneumonia and Diarrhea. She's quite a flexible girl! She'd stretch her legs toward her mouth & she'd flail her legs as if she didn't have bones at all. She was reactive to all stimulation & she responds to you. Cute kid, really. Sad she got sick. We all hope she'll grow up well & we also hope she can recover from her heart problem.

Mark Darelle is 6 months old, but he's as big as a year old kid! He was also hospitalized because of Pneumonia. He fusses a lot, especially in the presence of Nurses. His mom, an 18-year old girl, said he's afraid of Nurses 'coz they gave him shots! Hahaha! I tolk her that we wouldn't be giving Mark Darelle shots any time soon! he was a very big baby! Cute too!

At first, I thought that Jasmine was a boy. She was wearing a grey & blue shirt, and she was bald. Her mom corrected us and told us that she was a Girl! Hahaha! She's got beautiful BIG eyes!!! She fussed a lot, but when we approached her & talked to her, she would settle down & smile sweetly. I think she's the complete opposite of Mark Darelle! She loves the Nurses! After we'd leave her area, she'd cry & fuss all over again! Cute kid! Jasmine was actually discharged a week earlier, but due to financial problems, they didn't have any money to pay for the hospital bills. Her family had to approach the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) so that they could pay for her bills. After our Lunch Break, Jasmine was finally discharged.

The 3 other newborns in Don-Ver's area were also quite memorable for me. The one right beside him was the one I'd call "Tisoy" because of his very fair skin. He was really cute! He just had some rashes due to the heat. The other baby in the ward near Don-Ver is the one I call "Yellow" because of his yellowish skin. Although he had yellowish skin, the mothers assured us that he didn't have Hepatitis or Liver problems. That kid was very fussy. The only way you could pacify him was if you'd carry him. And he's only a few days old!!! The baby assigned to my groupmate, Robbie, was also a cute baby. He's only a week old, but he had very cute facial expressions! He would wink & smile at Robbie & he would even smirk while sleeping!

Today was really something memorable! It took away the anxiety & disappointment of last week's postponed hospital duty. We learned how to plot the babies' temperature, heart rate & respiratory rate in the TPR Chart & we were able to interact with the mothers & the babies!

Tomorrow's another day, and we will be assigned to the babies who were just transferred from the NICU to the ward. These babies are more sick than the ones we just handled today. Hopefully, we can learn more tomorrow.

I'll be off to class in the next few minutes... I just wanted to share my great day! Hehehe! Here's to looking forward to tomorrow!!!

Saturday, November 17, 2007

November 17, 2007

I just came from my first day of Hospital Duty at the Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital. I woke up real early, because we had to be there before 7:00am for the Orientation & Duty. Well, nothing happened.

Turns out our school's Clinical Coordinator did not forward a "Communication Letter" to the Hospital regarding our Duty Schedule, etc. That, after having to wait 2 hours in a mosquito-infested room!!!

Now, we'll have to undergo make-up duty during the Holidays (December 26 & 27)! Darnit! To think I had to have my Duty Uniform rushed from the Tailor! All the panic, excitement & anxiety gone to the sewers!

Well, at least I can sleep in this weekend. Sigh...

Thursday, November 08, 2007

November 08, 2007

Wow! Its been a long time since I have posted anything here. Sorry. Hehe.

Finally, I was able to take a breather from school, even if its only for a few days. My supposed 3-day Finals Week, turned out to be a Week-Long hell of reviewing, endless reading & lots of papers to write. I also had to move back home since I'd get sick a lot the last few months. It would've been nice to be home, if not for all the temptations at home (and all the nagging!).

Nothing much has happened since the First Semester ended. The only highlight of my vacation was All Soul's Day... and it was a disaster! Well, not a total disaster, really, but it was not a very good experience.

First, I had to wake up early to take a bath and get ready. Then, I hadn't had anything good to eat before we left (which makes anyone quite grumpy!). Shortly after getting on the Expressway, the most horrible thing happened... There was a very disturbing sound emanating from our car's engine, everytime my Dad pressed on the Accelerator pedal, which got worse and worse after every 10 meters!

So we decided to get off on the next exit to find a mechanic. After finding a mechanic, who was open on a Holiday, we were a bit relieved. However, this relief would only last a few minutes. After 30 minutes of looking for the possible problem with our car's engine, the mechanic advised that it may take longer. And since we had to get to Malolos by Lunch to get together with our relatives from the US, my Mom, sister & cousin had to commute all the way from Meycauayan. Well, since we were already 2/3s of the way, it was okay. We left my Dad with the car and just brought our bare essentials with us.

The commute to Malolos was fine. We were able to take an airconditioned van to Malolos. We were able to arrive safely to my cousin's new restaurant where we met up with our relatives from Cali. We had a blast, coz the food was really great, and my Aunt was showing off the pictures of my new Nephew, Zion.

After Lunch, we broke off to go to the Cemetery to pay our respects to my Grandparents & Great-Grandparents. I think it was a great idea that we went to the cemetery the day after All Saint's Day, since it would be less congested. True enough, there were hardly any living people in the Cemetery. We were able to pray quietly & pay our respects, without all the chaos and commotion.

We also went to Atlag, where our Great-Grandparents' property was. We picked up another cousin and collected the rent from one of the tenants. We were able to go around Malolos, with the help of my Cousin's car. Thank goodness they were gracious enough to drive us around!

On the way home, we took another airconditioned van all the way to Quezon City where we rode the MRT to Makati. When we got to our Stop in Makati, we had to board a hellish bus, which had me, literally, hang on for dear life!!! This devil bus scared the bejeezuz out of me! I swear! By the time we got home, we smelled like traffic & pollution, but I was too tired to even think about it. I took a quick shower & dozed off.

Anyway, I have to run... I need to buy some charcoal so that we can cook dinner... Our gas ran out! Hahaha! Update you guys more later! Take care!

Wednesday, October 03, 2007

October 3, 2007

It's already October, and I still do not have a decent BLOG entry! *Sigh*

Well, what can I say?!? It sucks not to have an Internet access at home, when your brain is buzzing with ideas. It also sucks when you don't have a Memory Card for your new Mobile Phone, so that you can easily transfer your pics to the computer.

I only have 2 weeks left before the Final Exams come up, and I am scared to my knickers! I was absent for a week from classes due to flu, now I'm cramming in all of my subjects just to get a decent grade. Thank goodness, I passed all of my Midterm Exams, while most of my friends flunk theirs. I guess I would be in a much better disposition after the Exams.

I will be spending my School Break looking for work so that I can at least have something to pay my bills with. However, I am quite nervous about finding a new group for my NCM 201 RLE. It will be the time when I do my Hospital Duty for Maternal & Child Care. Most of my friends prefer to do their duty on weekdays, while I prefer the weekends, to give way to work.

At home, I can't seem to relax. I don't know why. I also couldn't get myself to study. Very different from when I was staying in my Grandfather's place in Manila. There, I would fix my notes & study when I'm bored. But hey! I feel more secured and at peace when I'm at home.

Nothing much has been happening except for our Community Dental Mission last Sunday. It was the first time that I did not cringe at the sight of blood & needles. It was mighty muddy in the area, though. We discovered that the heavy rains brought about by Typhoon Hanna left the place flooded with 2 feet of murky, muddy water, just the night before. Well, it went really well, I'd say. We had about 80+ patients who availed of the free Dental Extractions.

After the Dental Mission, my classmates and I went to the 1st Nursing Expo in SM Megamall. I wanted to stay and listen to the Seminars, but, unfortunately, we had to go. We all barely slept the night before, only to wake up very early in the morning for the Dental Mission.

Well, that's it for now, I guess. I just wanted to let you guys know that I'm still alive, though quite harrassed. Hehe. See you guys again soon... Hopefully before my Final Exams!

Thursday, September 27, 2007

September 27, 2007

I'm in the school Computer Lab right now, trying to take advantage of Free Internet Access! Hahaha!

After I got sick, I had nothing to do but catch up on all my classes that I've missed the past week. I was only able to go back to school yesterday, since I don't have classes on Tuesdays. It was fun. Going back to school. I kinda miss the chaos.

Oh! Did I mention that I now go back home to Las PiƱas everyday? After I got sick, my Mom got concerned that no one would be looking after me if I got sick living in my Grandparents' place in Manila, since no one's there but me & my cousins. She decided that it would be better if I stayed at home. At least I get to eat better food.

Since I'm on a strict No Pork, No Beef diet, our entire household is also in the same diet! Hahaha! Well, it's for everyone's good anyway. Dave's also got Hypertension now. All that eating out! Hahaha! The only one at home who doesn't have Hypertension would be Pam. We're all getting very fat, errrr... Healthy, kasi.

But hey! I've really lost a lot of inches. Most of my Jeans that were hard to wear before, are now very loose! I have to buy a new belt so that I won't lose my pants! Hahaha!

Anyway, I have to go for the meantime. I have to fix my schedules for next semester. I've got lots of other news to share, but I have to run. See ya! Toodles!

Sunday, September 23, 2007

September 23, 2007

Hi Guys! Please excuse the lack of updates. See, I just came from a week-long bout with the Flu & my parents decided to have our DSL Connection cut off for the meantime (They're trying to find a better deal).

Since my last post, there were some events that made my days really worth looking forward to. Last Tuesday, September 18, was the 20th Capping, Pinning & Candlelighting Ceremony of our School, and I was 1 of the 1,075 Candidates who were Capped. Though I was sick at the time, I made it. Unfortunately, I had a really bad relapse after the event, thus the week-long illness. I still have a really bad cough from the flu, but otherwise, I'm fine.

I got the flu from my Mom. See, she was feeling warm in their room, so she decided to crash with me at the Den (since I can't sleep in my own room). For several days, my Mom was my roommate. And since she was sick, I got the flu, too. Haaayyy... Now, my Dad has the flu as well! *Sigh*

Nothing much since. I tried to go to school last Friday, but on the way, I already felt faint & nauseous. By the time I finished my Exam for Microbiology, I had to seek out my other professor to ask if I could take the Quiz in advance since I didn't think I could hold out until 3PM. My professor told me that I looked very pale and that I looked like I was going to faint anytime, so she told me to just go home & rest. She excused me since it was evident that I was sick. I went home, still nauseated & faint. I tried to eat, just in case I was getting Hypoglycemic, but it did not work. I spent the rest of Friday & Saturday in Bed.

Today, I came to school, only to find that my teacher is not in class. I don't know where he is, and I tried to look for him in all the classrooms. I'll just call him later.

Anyway, I have to go. I'm not really feeling very well, and I still have to go home. Catch you guys again later. Ciao!

Thursday, September 13, 2007

September 13, 2007

It's been 3 days since my Birthday, and, hmmm... I dunno. I don't feel any older. Nor do I look any much older, either. Hahaha! One thing, though... My pants sure are a whole lot looser!!! Hahaha!

My birthday was very quiet. I had a day-off from school, which I have to make-up for tomorrow. Thank goodness my professors excused me from my classes.

I got up later than usual and ate the leftover Roasted Chicken that I asked my Mom to buy for my dinner. My Mom wanted me to go with her while she tended to her patient in San Lorenzo Village.

I had quite an eyeful! The house was exactly how I want my own house to be like! High ceilings with glass panel windows; minimal furniture in all the right places; a lap pool that you can see from plate-glass windows; Roman Shades; Loft; very light colors on the walls; marble flooring; and shiny wood accent walls. I enjoyed sitting in the dining room chair for 3 hours, just drinking in the sight. *Sigh*

After my Mom was done with her patient, my Dad picked us up & we met up with Pam at McDonald's Greenbelt. When Pam came, we headed to Don Bosco Church for the 6:00PM Mass (My 1st Mass in 2 years). Since my parents were assigned to pray-over the Prayer Leaders in their Homestead, we went to the BLD Secretariat and waited until it was time to pick Dave up from work. Since they weren't through yet, Pam & I left our parents in BLD & went to pick Dave up. We all went straight to Omakase Restaurant at Casa Susana in Alabang Town Center for dinner, after our parents were through with the Opening Prayers.

I had a blast! For months I have been craving for some Omakase Sushi Platters (SAR & JSC Platters to be precise!), and now I had my fill!!! Mmmm!!! I thought I was going to burst after we had dinner! Loooovvve it!!! I can't wait 'til my next birthday! Hahaha!

So that we can share the celebration with my cousins, we bought some Ice Cream & brought it straight home. My cousins gave me hand-made cards, which really touched my heart. They were really nice.

I'd like to take this chance to thank everyone who remembered my Birthday: Tonie Arrienda, Iris Malazarte, Owen Maddela, Tin Rocha, Jopay Agustin, Sheila Abendan, Marianne Chiong, Caloy Cosio, Mitzi Dela Cruz, Ate Mayet Alonzo, Mae Corpin, Glen Sandoval, Aissa Socorro, Ria Pineda, Ate Mhin Madriaga, Kari Yee, Tito Ray Corpin, Nicky Templo-Perez, Kuya Omar Corpin, Giselle Gabriel, Nikki Bumatay, Iya Salud, Tatee Lubaton, Zeb Zuniga, Corr Deliverio, Ate Tammy Alipio, Anna Cosio, Beng De La Cruz, Shobe Ramirez-Lu & KC Misa. Thank you for remembering my Birthday! God Bless you guys! Hugs!

Sunday, September 09, 2007

September 09, 2007

As promised, I found some time to post a more decent BLOG than the last few ones.

I was really busy with school, studying for the upcoming Midterm Exams. I haven't been home for almost 2 weeks, and I couldn't find time to even visit an Internet Cafe. The only time I am able to rest is when I'm home, reading my notes in bed.

In the past few days, we went back to Marikina to gather some more data for the Culminating Event that we were organizing for the community in October. This time around, it was not as stressful as our last Community Duty.

Classes have been weird these past few weeks due to the Typhoons that came one after another. Now, we don't really have enough information to study for our Midterm Exams. Well, it depends on what subject we're talking about. The subjects that are really relevant in Nursing are the ones that are, thankfully, not affected by the time lost due to the Typhoons.

This past week, I've only had 2 Midterm Exams: Fundamentals of Nursing & Chemistry. Our Health Care 2 & Community Health Nursing Professor decided not to have any Midterm Exams. My Nutrition & Microbiology Midterms will be in the coming weeks. So I still have more studying to do.

Right now, with my Mobile Phone temporarily disconnected, I feel out of touch. Actually, I feel crippled. It's so hard not to have a phone! And to think I am now sporting a new handset! Hehehe! See, my brother, Dave, availed of the Loyalty Rewards we have with Globe Telecoms. He opted for the new handset, while I decided to get the Bill Rebates. But since he's having a hard time learning a Sony Ericsson handset, he decided to give it to me, with the condition that I give him my Nokia 6260, which he would, in turn, trade with a Nokia 6300, along with his other phone. So, I have a new phone!!! Hehehe!

This past week, I also got sick. Actually, I got the colds & fever from my cousin, & roommate, Kristia. She had been sick since Sunday last week, and by Tuesday, I was already sniffing & blowing my nose the entire evening. Wednesday, on the day of my exams, I was already burning up with fever & still blowing my nose off. I forced myself to go to school so that I can attend my exams. It was very distracting, but I managed to finish my exams with ease.

Because of my colds, I also developed a mean cough, which lead to an Asthma attack last night. Up to now, my Chest is heavy & I can't seem to breathe well. I'm just ignoring it right now, but it's sooo hard to sleep at night when I'm having a hard time breathing.

Anyway, I'm not excited about my Birthday tomorrow since I just learned that I am in deep crap! Financially, that is. I learned that my Unbilled Charges for my Mobile Phone is a whopping PhP5000++!!! Whoa! Where in heaven's name am I going to get that much moolah?!? I initially thought it was because of my sister's extended conversation with my favorite cousin in New Zealand, but it was actually because of this Contest from Globe that my Mom encouraged me to join. Darnit! I will never join any SMS Contest ever again!

I also have to think about my Credit Card bills! Haaay! Sometimes, I want to go back to work so that I can pay all my bills & live normally again. It's really so hard to just depend on the very small allowance that I get for school.

Going back to School stuff. I'm going to be a candidate for the 20th Capping Ceremonies on September 18, along with my classmates. It's going to be held at the PICC Plenary Hall. Still, I am not that excited. Again, because of the same reason I stated above.

Anyway, to those who have greeted me in advance, thanks! Sorry if I can't reply to your SMS's yet, but be assured that I have received them.

I have to go. I'm still not feeling well. Maybe next time?!? Hehe.

Tuesday, September 04, 2007

September 04, 2007

Just a short post for today. I have to get back to studying. I have Midterms this week, which would probably get extended well into the next week. *Sigh*

I was almost ripped off by this guy who's running the Internet Shop where I'm at right now. He was charging me PhP205 for printing only PhP180 worth! For a student like me, that's big enough money.

Gosh, I'm sooo busy with school, I can't even think straight. Maybe after my exams I can post more.

My Birthday's coming up. Hope something good's gonna come up as well. I miss my friends, but the sacrifices I have to make to pass my classes should be well worth it.

Well, I gotta run. Again, will post after my Midterms! That's a promise.

Monday, August 27, 2007

August 27, 2007

It feels like a long time since I last posted anything here. To be more precise, it's already been 7 days and a few hours since my last post. It seems long because I've had a lot of things happen these past few days, and I just couldn't wait to Blog about it. As much as I would've wanted to share all of it right after it happened, I was unable to go online coz I couldn't find the time.

I wouldn't call it the "highlight" of my week, but it definitely was the most controversial & most stressful thing that ever happened to me. I'm proud to say that I had the resilience & forbearance to get a grip of my darker side.

As much as I would've wanted to bash someone's face in (and I could have, believe me!), I kept my cool & held back. The most extreme thing I did was to get on that person's face & bluntly told him off of his extremely arrogant, egotistic & obnoxious arse to the fullest extent of my voice!

Let me give you a not-so-brief history of why I had to get to that point.

Since Summer, I already had a group of friends from school. We were classmates & groupmates on all our classes. Since we had a class together this Semester that called for groupings, we were grouped together, save for one, who was clever enough to join another group. Unfortunately, I had to bear another Semester with the most obnoxious, invidious, abomidable, pompous loud-mouth in our group!!!

Without the agreement, or even the consent of the group, he proclaimed himself as the Group Head. We just let that pass since we knew that he needs to feed his over-sized ego. However, when it came to doing the Group Activities and papers for our class, he would have an ego trip & start bossing everyone around, to the point of threatening the members with expulsion from the group.

Last week, the injury I suffered during the Summer, the Muscle Spasms on my Neck & Shoulders, recurred & I could hardly get up from bed. I had to wear my Neck Brace, take my Muscle Relaxants & apply several medicated patches again, just to relieve the pain. I was in great inquietude.

After doing the Group's Initial Database & Second Level Assessment alone, using very limited information that the group gathered, I thought I can take a rest from the paper. Anyway, I spent 2 straight days scrunching my brain for words & information to place on the darned paper, scrambling for information on the format & trying to fill in the missing facts, so I think I deserved a break. But was I given that?!? Nooo...

Last Thursday morning, just as I woke up, I received a poorly constructed & grammatically deficient SMS from this Hitler of a person, demanding us to attend a Group Meeting that evening regarding our Initial Database & Second Level Assessment. Apparently, our Professor wanted us to add some more information based on the notes that he had provided.

I told him that I was sick, and though I will try to attend, I cannot commit my attendance. He cockily replied that "irregardless" of whether I am sick or not, I have to attend & stay until the whole thing is finished. I told him that I really cannot stay out very late since it will aggravate my condition & my Mom would not allow it, especially since the area where we'll be meeting is a depressed community. He, then, questioned why I had to follow my Mom's orders when I am already of age. He said we had to sacrifice and he would not even go to work the next day just to do the paper, and so would everyone else in the group. I told him that he & another member were the only 2 people who were working, anyways, so it wasn't a loss to the other members. He then, threatened to expel me from the group itself.

My blood pressure shot right up! I was infuriated! That little twit wanted to remove me from the group after I worked my arse off on the paper that just needed some tweaking! That was just not right. Uh-Uh... Dissing me like that will get you nowhere, and fast! I had to do something.

I sent an SMS to my Professor asking him if I can just work on my own. Anyway, I was already feeling very stagnant in the group. Being one of the very few in the group who can hold ground on their own (the twirp, not included), I know that I can function much better without him consistently harrassing us to do stuff, while he does nothing. My professor said we'd talk the next day (which never happened, by the way).

So, even though I was still not feeling better, I forced myself to go to school to meet the group. I had formulated questions to be asked to the Family we needed to re-interview so that I can get all the information we needed for the paper. Since I was still pretty much pissed off at that jerk, I barely spoke a word to him throughout.

When we finally got to the Site for the Interview, we started to ask questions, and I'd inject my questions as well. Imagine, to my bewilderment, infront of the Interviewee, he disses me by saying that I cannot ask my questions since he has a format! The gall!!! To think, when I read the questionnaire he was holding, it was still very incomplete! All the information he needed was already answered in the previous interview! Just so I wouldn't look like an uncivilized person infront of the Interviewee, I just kept silent, while my other groupmates started to calm me down.

After the interview, a couple of my groupmates & I started to vent out our annoyance & exasperation over the unprofessionalism of this impetuous prick. While he dragged one of my friends with him while he walked ahead of the group, we couldn't help but make sure that he hears how annoyed we were of him & the way he runs the group.

When we got to the Odeon Mall, just about a block from the Site, my friend said we all had to talk to get things over with. That's when I had to get ugly. I told him to his face that he is the reason why the group does not want to function. We are all sick & tired of his harrassments & threats, that we are not even afraid of getting booted out of the group anymore. And I told him flat out that he wasn't a big loss to the group if he left. Which was true! May lightning strike him if I was telling a lie! Hah!

To cut the story short, he left the group, to our delight. We just didn't show it, but we were more than happy! We wanted to celebrate! Good Riddance to Bad Rubbish!!! Really! Seriously.

Who wouldn't be happy?!? Imagine, he would have us meet every Sundays after class just to do the paper, but what does he do? He would pretend to be busy by cooking, talking on the phone for hours, going on the internet & checking on his emails & Friendster, or flirt with a guy from another group. Yet, he takes all the credit for the Group's work! The nerve! We skip going to Church, being with our families for this crap?!? Hah! To hell with him! Now, we can live in peace and harmony as a group.

I cannot begin to enumerate the new "Press Releases" he has been spreading about our group. He has never stopped bad-mouthing us to anybody who would listen, anyway, so, we just let him be.

And guess what?!? Although we had to start over with our Initial Database & Second Level Assessment from scratch, we were able to finish it in one sitting... Without HIM!! And the group had a lot of fun, too! We were having a blast doing our paper, that it did not seem like work. A far cry from what we were previously experiencing under the "tutelage" of this pompous jerk.

Now, I can say that I have a great group in school. We're all working hard & we are kicking some serious butts from here on out! Good luck to you, you egotistic schmuck! As you like to say, "I'll see you at the Board Exams!"

Friday, August 17, 2007

August 17, 2007 (Part Deux)

Its another day without classes for Metro Manila students, as Typhoon Egay (International Code: Sepat) offically became a Super Typhoon, pulling the South-West Monsoon rains towards it's center, and gathering gusty winds at 250 kph.

Floods are definitely inevitable, since its been raining hard for a few days now. Though the rain has been sporadic, the volume of rainfall has been quite overwhelming, for the Metro's exhausted, clogged & out-dated drainage system. Some of the flooded areas have not seen dry pavements since before Typhoons Chedeng (International Code: Pabuk) & Dodong (International Code: Wutip) hit the Philippine Area of Responsibility last week. Some parts of Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite & Metro Manila are still underwater.

One great thing about this weather is the increase in the water level of the Angat Dam, which means goodbye to the impending Water Crisis in Metro Manila. Goodbye to drought & water irrigation problems of our farmers. And most especially: Hello to more rest for us students!!!

Well, at least the National Disaster Coordinating Council decided to announce the suspension of classes as early as last night! Good one!

Okay... Time to eat my lunch, though it looks like nighttime outside.

August 17, 2007

Have you ever had an itch you just can't reach? The one that you just need to scratch so that you can be relieved? Well, I don't itch anywhere but that was the feeling I got yesterday...

See, since I've stopped working to become a full-time student, I have not had a decent Burger or Sushi. Sure, I've had my Mickey Dees & Jollibees, and my occasional Tokyo Tokyo Sushi, but still... Nothing compares to a freshly grilled 1/4 lb. all-meat pattie (done medium-well), topped with fresh lettuce, succulent tomatoes, a slice of American cheese, and tangy wasabi mayo, all on a nice, fresh Oat Bun. Or, an Omakase SAR Platter of Sushi. Aaarrrggghhh!!!

Anyway, so I finally got over the edge & I just HAD to have my Burger or Sushi fix. My Mom brought me to Alabang Town Center to stroll around and have her hair dyed at FIX Salon. I already ate my lunch at home so I wouldn't spend money on food anymore. When we got there, I still got some Chicken Wrap at Food Choices & even a Doughnut, but I couldn't shake the feeling of being hungry. I just couldn't stay still. I HAD to have my fix!

When it was finally time to go home, I begged my parents to stop over Gourmet's Palate so I can grab a Wasabi Burger. Then, I thought, I might have another bout of Hypertension if I ate a Burger. So, I decided to have the next best thing: A Grilled Chicken Sandwich! It still had the fresh veggies & a special sauce in the same Oat Bun, but without the guilt.

After I ate my Sandwich, I was happy. I was relieved! Heck! I was in Heaven!!! Even if I ate my sandwich at 6:30pm, I felt full right until this morning! Ahhh... Bliss...

Now, what do YOU crave for?!?

Thursday, August 09, 2007

Belated Happy Birthday!!!

I'd like to give a BIG Shout Out to my Beautiful Niece, Anna Luisa Madriaga...

BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY,

My Little Bonita!!!

Ninang Elaine Misses You Soooo Much!

I Love You, my Little Kiwi Munchkin!!!

Hope you'll grow up to be a Caring, Good-Hearted, Talented, Smart & God-Fearing Lady!

Take care of Mommy, Daddy & Kuya Matt!

August 9, 2007

It's that time of the year again when the Government's incompetence is excruciatingly evident. (Sigh...)

Monday afternoon, it was already raining like mad out and there were already areas that were flooded to the gutter. Tuesday was the same, with more rain pounding overhead, plus loud winds roaring.

Yesterday saw the same weather conditions, and yet the Department of Education (DepED) still insisted that classes in ALL Levels (Elementary through College) should go through. There were already a lot of flooded areas (even up to the waist!), and yet they still wanted the kids to go to school! Only after a couple of Municipal & City Mayors and Schools started to announce their own decisions suspending classes in their areas, did DepED retract their announcement! That was already 7AM! And to think, some Public Schools were already having classes! Some students were already in the streets, forcing their way to school despite the strong winds & pelting rain!

Today's weather is significantly better than yesterday's, and they decided to announce the suspension of classes in ALL Levels! How ironic! They don't suspend classes when the weather's rough, but they announce postponement of classes when the sun's out and about!

There is really no coordination in our Government's system. The DepED should always take into consideration that there are low lying areas in the Metro that are easily flooded, and that the strong winds and heavy downpour make it very hard for the majority of the commuting public, especially Students & children, to tread. With the weather seemingly getting worse even at 3AM, they should already call off classes as early as that time! Not when you're already pressured by the tons of complaints you receive from disgruntled parents!

DepED should consult with the Departments of Public Works & Highways, Social Welfare, with the Municipal & City Mayors, the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), as early as the night before, if the winds and rain have been continuous. It had been raining for 2 days straight, and nothing!!!

Thanks to the President, there's no classes today, even if there's no rain or strong winds out. Every year, whenever storms & typhoons arrive, this problem persists. Why do they always have to wait for the weather to be significantly worse, with children already in schools, before they call off classes! Grrr!!! Learn from your mistakes people!!! And you wonder why there are a lot of children getting sick during the stormy season?!?

Anyway, more time to lounge in my PJs... Bliss!!!

Saturday, August 04, 2007

August 5, 2007

Its 2:00AM in Manila, and I'm not yet asleep... I don't even think I can sleep now...

Why?!?

I can't believe I just spoke to HappySlip herself... Christine Gambino!!! I was having problems with my PC's audio so I just tried to lip-read a very choppy live videostream from Stickam. Since I gathered from the Text Chats that she's taking in Calls over the phone, I whipped out our US VoIP & called the Toll Free Number for the Live Chat! After minutes of finger-numbing attempts to dial the number, I finally came through!!! And she remembered my email to her!!!

I was gushing the entire time! I was starstruck! Talking to THE HappySlip?!? What an experience!!! Like a dream!!! Woo Hoo! She now knows that she's gone big in the PI and may even think about coming here to do a Fans Day EB!!! Coolness!!!

Anyway, I gotta go... Not to sleep, though. Post more later...

Thursday, August 02, 2007

August 3, 2007

It's offically August 3rd in Manila, and I have been awake for over 19 hours already. Still, sleep has yet to dawn on me. I'm already having another bout of Allergic Rhinitis, still not even a hint of lethargy... Oh well, maybe in another half hour or so...

After weeks of postponement, our Community Duty finally pushed through today. Along with my groupmates, we took the LRT Line 2 to Marikina City (which, by the way, left me misty eyed) where we commissioned a Vehicle for Hire to bring us to our Site. It was another 10 or 20 minutes before we finally got to our destination: Brgy. Bagong Sibol, Marikina City.

It was a depressed area right along the banks of the Tumana River, behind the Fairlane Subdivision. Since we had to meet quite early, some of us barely had breakfast, and so, the task of finding safe & suitable food came into play. Good thing, in one of the very few concrete houses, they sold freshly cooked Purefoods Hotdogs for a very reasonable price of only PhP7.00 per stick. 1 Stick was quite enough for me, since I already took my breakfast at home.

When we finally convened at the Baranggay "Hut" (it was barely a "Hall"), we were tasked to interview families who reside in the Blocks assigned to us regarding their various Health Concerns & what improvements they would like to have done, in terms of Health Care Services. I paired up with one of my friends, Jamie, so that we could do the interview together. Jamie and I were able to speak with 4 Families who shared their concerns & needs.

In our interview with the families, I was left in awe of the efforts being done by the City Government of Marikina, under the leadership of Mayor Marides Fernando. Although they do not have regular check-ups or a nearby Health Center, their Emergency protocols can be relied on in times of need. I also noticed that they all seem to be very content & happy about the measures being done by their Mayor for the benefit of their Community's Health & well-being. How many Municipalities, Cities & Provinces can boast of such services?!?

Although I was a bit apprehensive at first, I felt at ease, after the first few questions were thrown. It also leaves a good feeling that you may also be able to help these families once you have gotten to know their needs better.

After Community, I had to run back to school to take my Prelims in Chemistry, which was surprisingly easy compared to my Microbiology & Community Health Nursing Exams. We were able to check it after the exam & I got 93%!!! Woohoo! All worth it!

Another great news was the Cancellation of Classes today, August 3, for the Last Day of Registration of the Baranggay Elections. Although it was supposedly only for students between 15-17 years old or High School & College Level Students, our school decided to call off the classes since there are also a lot of students in our school within that age bracket.

So now, I have 2 days off, and I am planning to spend it sleeping or in the Mall. Hah!

That's it for today... I'll update again later...

Saturday, July 28, 2007

July 28, 2007

It's been a long time since I last posted anything here, but it was not because I was lazy or anything, but because I had to study my arse off for our Prelims. I was supposed to have 6 Exams last week, but because some of my Professors opted to postpone their exams, I only had 2. It did not mean that I had to slack off, though. I still had to study real hard.

I found my NCM 200 Exam to be great. It was quite easy, with some exceptions. But my MicroPara exam?!? My goodness! I couldn't even remember a thing! One reason being that my professor does not teach. He merely reads off the book and asks us to go on 3 hour breaks. I should've just had that subject on Tutorial had I known! But, what the hey! I'd rather hack it than be a louse!

In other news, I've developed some rashes & allergies on my forearms upto my wrists. I also have traces of them on my nape and the back of my knees. It all started when I was washing my uniform last Wednesday. While I was washing my uniform, my wrists started to itch & I saw some red rashes starting to appear. I think it was the soap I was using. It was the first time I used Surf to wash my clothes, anyway.

The weather also contributed to my allergies, I think. See, I am allergic to my own sweat & since I've been feeling quite hot lately, my forearms itch from time to time. It was just last Thursday night that I noticed red spots on my forearm that were quite itchy. I knew they were allergy marks since I have them on an annual basis, especially during the Summer months. But now? On the rainy season?!? Weird... That's one reason I went home this weekend, despite the temptation of spending all my free time with Matt, Luisa & Ate Mhin before they leave for New Zealand.

These last 2 weeks, I really made sure I was able to spend some time with Matthew & Luisa. They're leaving for New Zealand on Monday, and I am quite distraught. Since I have a strong bond with the kids & Ate Mhin (their Mom), I am more than sure that I would miss them terribly. While Ate Mhin was walking me to the Bus Stop near her Mom's apartment, I wanted to cry, but I was able to contain it. Did not want for her to see my sadness.

The few days that I spent with the kids are really precious. I got to know their temperament more, and I made sure I get to keep great memories of the kids. Although I know that this is not the last time that I would be seeing Matt & Luisa, I know that it is going to be a very long time before I get to see them again. I hope they'd still remember me.

I have a trunk-full of memories & experiences with Matt & Luisa and going to their house. I even experienced taking the LRT Line 2!!! I've never taken that Line until I just had to visit the kids. I also learned how to commute going to Antipolo, and it was when I was going to go and visit them that I was crushed in a Car Accident. Ahh... Memories...

Anyway, I was able to watch some more HappySlip videos using my Sister's laptop. I just can't help but laugh at every video, even her Soap Opera series! Hahaha! If I were you, I'd hop on over there and watch, or, you could also go to my Videos page to see some of the HappySlip Videos! I swear you'll enjoy them!

Well, I guess I have to go. I just want to update you guys on what's been happening to me these last few days. I still have more to write, but they tend to slip from my mind... So, toodles!

Thursday, July 19, 2007

July 19, 2007

I just recently discovered the hilarious world of Happy Slip. Christine Gambino, the owner-slash-actress-slash-production team-slash-editor-slash-director of Happy Slip, is just simply priceless! She is a comic genius!!! Her humor may seem a bit like Rex Navarette's, but she does it on video! More visually stimulating! She acts all the parts & the characters look very funny, too!

I heard about Happy Slip through a news feature from TV Patrol World last night, I think. Since I had a lot of time on my hands today, I decided to drop by the Net Cafe to see what all the fuss is about on YouTube. And, boy was I right to spend my time here. Happy Slip is downright F-U-N-N-Y! I had an asthma attack just watching the videos! Hahaha!

I realized that I have not updated my "What I To Do Before I Die" list, but I am still thinking... I am also busy with school coz Prelim Exams are just a few days away.

I just realized that in about a week and a half, my babies, Matthew & Luisa, are leaving for New Zealand. Sad, sad, sad... I want to spend more time with them, but School beckons. Well, we'll have this Sunday to hang out. Looking forward to it.

I don't think that I've mentioned that I am a Candidate at our School's Capping & Pinning Ceremonies this September just yet. It's basically a "transitional ritual" where Nursing Students, who have undergone Pre-Nursing Subjects, will be inducted to Nursing Proper. Its just like a certification that you can already undergo Nursing Duties. I'm excited about this new endeavor, just as I was excited about graduating College. I already got my measurements done for my Gala Uniform, and all I have to do is submit my application tomorrow.

Anyway, I really have to go. It's running quite late, so, I gotta run along & study for my Long Exam in Microbiology tomorrow. Cheerio!

Monday, July 16, 2007

Things I Want To Do Before I Die (Part One)

Somewhere out there (I forgot where exactly), I read about having goals in life. Not just your typical goals, like to finish school, get a good job, retire by age 30. Nothing like that... More like, the things you want to achieve or do before you die, such as visiting the 8 Wonders of The Ancient World, or something to that effect.

So now, I'm finally doing my own. Maybe I should do a hundred... Hmmm... Let's see if I can finish that in an hour... Hehehe.

  1. Visit Rome and walk around the Piazzas while eating Gelato.
  2. Attend the Love Parade in Berlin.
  3. Eat REAL Authentic Japanese food to my belly's content!
  4. Ride a Gondola in Venice during the Sunset, with the man I love.
  5. Commission the Orange County Choppers to build me a Customized Chopper.
  6. Learn & Master Wakeboarding.
  7. Bungee!
  8. Spend a week in any Aman Resort in Asia.
  9. Visit the Louvre in Paris.
  10. Learn how to Snowboard, and...
  11. Snowboard in Switzerland.
  12. Visit Princess Diana's "island" where she was buried.
  13. Attend the Cannes Film Festival, or the Sundance Film Festival, or any other International Film Festival & watch ALL the Movies being shown.
  14. Go on a Carribean Cruise.
  15. Go on an Asian Cruise.
  16. Go on a Mediterranean Cruise.
  17. Learn how to Surf.
  18. Hear Mass at the Vatican, with the Pope officiating.
  19. Confess to the Pope.
  20. Spend a week in Bora Bora (not Boracay!).
  21. Become a Certified Diver.
  22. Be a Licensed Pilot.
  23. Sleep in the Ice Hotel.
  24. Backpack around Europe, like Samantha Brown (Discovery Travel), and discover the Best little nooks & crannies.
  25. Experience at least 3 Cultures other than the Filipino & American Cultures.
  26. Own a Lambourghini Gallardo, or a Ferrari Spider.
  27. Have a Home Makeover or a Plan made by the Ty Pennington & his crew.
  28. Own a Beach Resort in Hawaii or in the Caribbean.
  29. See the fabulous architectures of Florence.
  30. Visit the Sagrada Familia Church.
  31. Own the latest Hummer.
  32. Own a Boxster, or Carrera S, or BMW Z3, or Corvette.
  33. Buy my Mom a Mercedes Benz.
  34. Build a house on the Beach.
  35. Have an iPhone.
  36. Learn 5 Different Languages.
  37. Eat Red Hot Chili. Just the Pepper.
  38. Wear a Bikini with Pride! Hahahaha!
  39. Eat Authentic Italian Food til my eyes pop out!
  40. Be more tech-savvy.
  41. Organize an En Grande Reunion of ALL the Children, Grandchildren, Great-Grandchildren & Great-Great-Grandchildren of Leonardo & Rosario Vicente.
  42. Adopt at least 2 children (even if I end up Single).
  43. Run at least 15 miles without quitting.
  44. Go camping more often.
  45. Be a Camp Counselor.
  46. Swim 25 laps of Butterfly Stroke non-stop.
  47. Learn how to make my own CSS, HTML, etc.
  48. Join a Reality Show (not those Bachelor types... Blech!).
  49. Go to Mexico with my High School friend, Janet Guinto.
  50. Get my own Starbucks Franchise...

Okay... That's it for now. I think I'm starting to forget all those other things I would like to do before I die. I know that some of the stuff I wrote above seem superficial & materialistic. But if you grew up wanting, you'd understand. Hehehe.

Welps, gotta go... Blog again later...

July 16, 2007

I haven't been to school in 2 and a half days already. Not that I was absent, but because my Sunday class was called off & I was already able to take the long exam that was scheduled for today.

My "weekend" has been boring since it started. But, it started with a bang! Bang, meaning, I banged my toe under my Grandma's Recliner! My toe hurt like heck & started to bleed. I even thought it would die the same way as my other toe did when I rammed it under our very old Fan. Thankfully, it was minor.

All I did these past 2 days were sleep, sleep & sleep. I left most of my books in Manila, so I don't have anything with me today.

I guess the most talked about issue hereabouts is the death of Rod Strunk, the husband of veteran-actress Nida Blanca, who allegedly commited suicide at a Motel in Tracy, CA. There are mixed emotions everywhere: on the Net, on TV, in the streets... Strunk was allegedly the "Mastermind" of Nida Blanca's [still unsolved] murder, so it definitely dug up a lot of negative feedback from the people who were convinced of his guilt.

I think, guilty or not, we shouldn't judge him. It doesn't mean that, since he "committed suicide," he was haunted by Nida Blanca or his conscience. His family thinks his death was accidental & they believe him to the very end. No one knew what happened to him & what happened the night Nida Blanca died. I think, however, the only true justice that Nida Blanca will be able to receive will be the one that the Lord will give her. It's useless to wait for the courts to decide. They do not even have a grain of evidence against anyone. (No wonder I'd rather become anything but a Lawyer).

The Justice system here in the Philippines, very much like the Justice Secretary, is very old & very ineffective. Given the right amount, the Judges can be bribed. If you're poor, you will never find justice. You'll have to settle with Just-Tiis. If you do not have any strong ties with the "Powers That Be," you'll just lose. Everyone is judged by publicity & it works. No wonder our country is going nowhere. And fast.

Anyway, enough of that... It just ruins my day. Haaayyy...

I was reading Smart Parenting today. It was about Pregnancy in different stages of your life (20s, 30s & 40s). It left me a bit concerned, coz I am nearing my 30s (Gack!), and yet, I am still unattached. Not that I'm complaining! It's just that, according to the article, more complications may arise in pregnancies among women in their 30s & 40s. The ratios of genetic & chromosomal abnormalities among infants are getting narrower as the mother's age increases. Scary thought. But then again, if you have trust in God, He will make sure that your child will be healthy. Right? Oh Lord...

Haaayyy... Meaningless babbles... Shows how bored I am, right?!? Hahaha. Blog again later...

Thursday, July 12, 2007

July 12, 2007

I only have 12 minutes before I have to go...

Our Community duty was postponed today because our Professor got sick. It's a relief since I was up til late last night after watching Harry Potter & the Order of the Phoenix.

It was a nice movie, with some thrilling parts. I had to grab on to my classmate, Marianne for support. Hahaha!

Tell you more about it later. For now, I just dropped by to post...

See y'all later.

Thursday, June 14, 2007

I Moved...

Hey guys! I've moved my BLOG over to my Multiply site... Just follow this link to pick on my brain...

http://laineybaby.multiply.com

You can also check out some of my pics... Hehehe! See ya!