2010

Blessed. That sums up my 2010.

There is no doubt that I have been truly very blessed this year. While it is true that I have had a few emotional moments just like any other person, there is no question that 2010 was indeed great for me. And as 2010 is winding up in a few hours, here goes a few highlights of the year that was.

JANUARY

I opened the year with a prayer for a better 2010 with things being in place -
bar, career, love and family.
One month with Allan at Picobello
Adventures with my students
Bajeck passing the Nursing Board Examination
I turned 29!




FEBRUARY

My first Valentine Date!
WII moment with Law School friends
Outliers
Dealing with students who cheat .. tsk, tsk!
Teacher's Day gift from my 2BM-A students



MARCH

Flowers
Pray, pray, pray
Tension building up but keeping the faith
Not being insecure
Passing the Bar Exam ... Yahoo!!! Not just me but Allan, too as well as my classmates!




APRIL

Hong Kong and Macau Trip with Sarona and Martin families
Cocoy Martin
Thanksgiving Parties
With Hanniyah
Oath-Taking and Roll-signing ... Full-Fledged Lawyer!




MAY

Election Opportunity
First Timer - North Cotabato
Visiting Aning
Summer Teacher
Mom and Dad's 30th Wedding Anniversary!


JUNE

Notary Public!
Decisions, Decisions
Johanna @ Melbourne
Samal Adventure
Law Professor!


JULY

New President!
New Hair
Emotional Rollercoaster!
Court Appearances
PWC Reunion!


AUGUST

Letting Go .. or Not!
Anonymous
1-SR Send-Off!
Talking with Elaine
Senior Citizen Dad!


SEPTEMBER

Bar Ops Trip!
With Bem and DM
Impressions
Being Careful in What I Say
Dealing with Students


OCTOBER

Badminton with Friends
Savings
Night with Gaby and friends
Sales Class!
LLM .. swerte!


NOVEMBER

Nego Everyday
Learning!
Mom @ US
Evaluations
Sisters


DECEMBER

BSA Classmates
Raffles
High School friends
Memorable One Year ... in a Different Way!
Blueberry Cheesecakes

Thank you Lord for my 2010!
Cheers to another year full of blessings in 2011!

Kenkoy

If you have a Facebook account, you are probably aware of the Violence against Child Abuse Campaign that is going on through the Profile Pictures.

It's pretty simple. You are asked to change your Profile Pic to a cartoon character from your childhood and invite your friends to do the same. It is asked that this should go on until December 6th, tomorrow, where there should be no human faces on Facebook.

I changed my profile pic to cartoon characters. Twice.

And I was happy I did.

Indeed it was a walk down the memory lane for me and for my friends. We reminisced what cartoons we watched, what days they were shown, the famous punchlines the characters uttered and which cartoon character reflects us.



I first changed my Profile Pic to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. During my childhood years, my sisters and I would be assigned to a respective TMNT. I was Raphael since my favorite color is Red and he is sort of the leader among the four. I'm the eldest and the leader, so to speak.

Changing my Profile Pic to TMNT led me to reminisce other cartoons as well - The Ghostbusters (I'm Egon), The X-Men (Jubilee is my favorite), among others.

Reminiscing such memories made me appreciate of the childhood I had - an enjoyable one indeed. It also made me appreciate the bond my sisters and I have formed. And it gets to me considering that 2 of my sisters are now living abroad.



Then, I changed it to Dopey. When I was growing up, I had big ears, big smile and apple cheeks. My cousins called me Dopey. Looking back, I did not detest it. I just took it in, may be because I thought Dopey was cute.




When my friend suggested that I change my profile pic to Dopey, she reminded me of my childhood picture which was passed around the office to make people laugh. At first, I was hesitant. We are working in a corporate world and a picture of mine taken when I was 2 years old was going to be passed around! What the! Anyway, the picture was eventually passed. Someone even suggested to put it in a poster - "Bawal ang nakasimangot dito". And beside those words, my picture would appear instead of that grinning monkey, hehe. We didn't push through with it though, not that I have regrets, hehe.

With such memories, I can't help but compare it with the youth of today. Did they experience the same kind of joy I had with these cartoons as well as all those outdoor games with the influx of internet and game consoles? How I wish they would experience such joy!

Amidst all these trip down the memory lane, it can't be avoided that there would be adverse reactions. One reaction would be - How on earth would you be able to stop child abuse just by changing your Profile Pic on Facebook?

Actually, no. I don't think you could directly stop child abuse just by changing your Profile Pic on Facebook.

The thing is if you are aware of someone being abused, you do everything in your power to intervene. Stop it if it is happening before your very eyes. Call the proper authorities.

However, it doesn't mean that this changing of Profile Pic leads to nowhere. Such campaign is about awareness - making people aware that this is a reality. And if you happen to cross paths with such situation, you'll know what to do.

When I changed my Profile Pic, it made me more grateful of how blessed I was with my childhood - just in case I forgot. When I changed my Profile Pic, I said a prayer for those who are being abused, for the abusers and for those who are aware but do nothing about it.

Cartoon characters are funny. Children being abused is not. Cartoon characters bounce back when they fall. Children do not. Cartoon characters have super powers. Children do not.

If this Campaign in Facebook made me realize it more, then, so be it.

I really don't I changed my Profile Pic for naught.

Bag Lady

It took me some time to remember the last bag I bought.

I knew I bought a Benetton Sling Bag blue back in 2004 at a discount.

My sister reminded me that I was the one who bought our bright pink Nike backpack from my mom.

I remembered I bought a small gold purse for a wedding in 2009.

But that's about it recently, I think. The bags I've been using were given to me or to us, siblings.

The bags I used while I was working before were either from unsold stocks of my mom or seldom used bags of my mom.

When I started in my current profession as a lawyer and teacher, the bags I've been using were previously owned by my mom.

I have no complaints, mind you. I am just happy that I still get to use stuff from my mom and do away buying new stuff for myself. I prefer it that way.

Lately, I was fine using those bags that were not that big to fit the books I bring to school . I was okay with that since I figured that the bigger bag I carry, the higher probability that I will put more things in there. And that means bad for the shoulder and the back.

When my sister was asked by my aunt what kind of bag I would probably want as pasalubong, my sister suggested a somewhat big bag to fit my stuff, such as books, so that I would not need to carry paper bags every now and then.

And so, just last night, I found out my pasalubong.



And I love it! It's actually an early Christmas gift from my cousins Mika and AJ.

I am not a big fan of Jessica Simpson but I just like this bag, knowing that people who care about me put some thought when they made this purchase.

Yesterday and today was actually some sort of a Jessica Simpson day - I read about her engagement, heard her song "A Public Affair" over the radio which should be rare nowadays, and then, I have this bag ;)

One thing for sure - I will be constantly aware not to put too much stuff in there ;)

Action Reaction

Long time, no blog .. hehe

Anyway, I just want to post some comments from the students' evaluation

-oOo-

Always present!

-oOo-

Reasonable exams

-oOo-

Good job!

-oOo-

Develop a more well-modulated voice (too pitchy!)

-oOo-

Limit reading her notes all the time

-oOo-

That's it for now! Points well-taken and very much appreciated.

Not bad at all ... I think! I will do my best do improve ;)

Test

In the subject I taught last semester and just this semester, there is this departmental exam which comprises 25% of the final grade of the students. For a student, it is quite onerous since it covers everything in that subject from the time the semester started. Plus the fact that I am not the one who prepared the questions.

More than my students' aptitude, I take it as a test on myself as well. If my students get decent grades, then, it gives me great contentment that they have understood and remembered what I have taught them.

What I do is that I answer the questions by myself and that's how I measure if the questions are indeed fair. And for the past departmental exams, the exams are pretty much fair in which I did expect my students to do good.

Last semester, approximately only 10% of my students passed the departmental exams. That was quite depressing.

Just this semester, approximately 53% of my students passed the departmental exams. Coming from a frustrating result last semester, this is indeed one great news for me. Hopefully, my next set of students will fare just the same or better.

Ayos!

First Last Time

I just ended my first law school class as a teacher a few hours ago.

It was my last class for my first class in law school.

Admittedly, I was a bit pressured when I was given the opportunity to teach in law school. Who wouldn't be? I was fresh from taking and passing the bar exam. I was not a bar topnotcher. I was not a cum laude. I only have one semester and one summer of teaching before I embarked on this opportunity to teach in law school.

On the other hand, I had to convince myself that I am fit to teach in law school. Otherwise, I would be my biggest stumbling block. I know I can do it.

Teaching in law school is no easy feat for a newbie like me. It is so unlike in undergrad. I probably exerted the same effort as that of my students. I read the full text cases, prepared my own notes, gathered my old notes, read the book, read the reviewers and even bar questions. I always I have to be on my toes and think of every possible question. I had my few second guesses. But then, even jurisprudence had its share, too. And in doing all of these, I have to keep thinking that it is not the salary that make me do this because it is more than that.

All I know is that I gave it my best shot.

I know that I still have to learn and adjust more. I hope that my students really learned a lot from me. And I pray that it was more than the textbook kind of teaching.

I thanked my students for not giving me any traumatic experience (they were laughing when I said this). And I hope I did not give them either. As I said my thank you to them a while ago, I saw happy and grateful faces. (with wishful thinking of plus points .. hehe) Inside, I was truly grateful for that.

They are aware of their last 2 exams and the grading system is pretty much clear to them. I can't and I won't promise that everybody will pass. They have to work hard for it. I just hope they'd do well on their last exam.

Besides, as the teacher's cliche goes, teachers don't fail students since teacher merely record students' grades. (But then, I know what students will say - it's the teacher who prepares the exam .. hehe)

And as the world celebrates Teacher's Day tomorrow, I thank the Lord for giving the opportunity to be one and I hope I will be a great one ;)

Dear John

When sky blue gets dark enough
To see the colors of the city lights
I guess
I had to be there
Oh, make me a red cape
I wanna be superman
Yes, I'm grounded
Got my wings clipped

The call your life's been issuing you
The rhythm of a line of idle days
But I can't break through it all
It's a heart, heartbreak
I've tried to define it
In a million different ways
It's just the way you move
The way you move me
Discover me
Discovering you

I worry
Now, I'm starting to see
When you're dreaming with a broken heart
The giving up is the hardest part
Free fallin'
Now I'm free fallin'
Gravity is working against me
And gravity wants to bring me down

Stayin' home alone on a Friday
Flat on the floor lookin' back
I send an SOS to the world
I hope that someone gets my message in a bottle
Looks like the joke's on me
So call me captain backfire
I wanna run through the halls of my high school
I wanna scream at the top of my lungs
Take out of your wasted honor
Every little past frustration
We share the sadness
Split screen sadness
Oh, half of my heart's got a grip on the situation
Half of my heart takes time

Still everything happens for a reason
It's no reason not to ask myself
So I keep waiting
Waiting on the world to change

Ondoy

September 26, 2009

I remembered it was raining early in the morning. I did not mind it that much. After taking a bath and eating my breakfast, I just continued to read for the last Sunday of the Bar Exams. I tried to read as much as I could, especially knowing that my mom and brother are on the way to Manila to see me.

Just around lunch time, mom sent an SMS to me telling that they have arrived but couldn't get to Manila because of the flood. Yes, it's super baha because of Super Ondoy. My dad also texted me telling me that my mom's flight got diverted to Clark. Pag-sure dad, nakarating na airplane nila sa airport .. haller!

After lunch, I tried to study but could not focus. I started to have head aches and I was still wondering where could my mom and brother me since they have not replied to my text messages. I was really worried about them.

Then, of course, there's the news that the bar exams could be postponed and we have to wait for further announcements. Add to the fact that I heard that the flight of some of my friends coming from Davao for Bar Ops have been diverted because of Ondoy. Then, I also got worried because some of my batchmates and friends were out there stranded.

There was this feeling of helplessness inside of me. I was restless, worried and uneasy. I wanted to cry but couldn't. I was thinking if I was feeling like this, how about all the others out there who are really suffering. I was saying that compared with this experience, taking the bar should be easy since I just have to do my part and study and take the exam and pray. With mother nature, I don't know what to do to prepare you for it.

It was a good thing that my mom and brother found a place to stay in Makati considering that almost all roads were flooded and almost all the hotels were fully-booked. I was also grateful to that taxi driver who were kind to my mom and brother.

It was a blessing in disguise that I was with Team Palisades. We shared stories and took pictures. Considering that it was supposed to be the last Sunday of the Bar on the following day, we did not do our groceries anymore. We wanted food to be delivered but no one will deliver. So, we just finished up all the canned goods available. We were still lucky indeed.

I actually didn't mind much that the last 2 exams were to be postponed. Additional time to go over the provisions would benefit me, as I felt it did when I had additional time to go over Special Proceedings. It was just the feeling of uncertainty - whether it was going to be moved to the next Sunday or it was going to be canceled - that made me feel uneasy. Plus the fact of additional expenses for hundreds of bar takers.

But that's how mother nature works!

September 27, 2009

The next day, I thanked GOD that the sun was shining. I prayed that my friends were okay and that I could get to Makati to see my mom and brother.

I did not attend the Pre-Bar Review of AdDU anymore since I really wanted to be with my mom and brother who went to Manila for me. We attended mass, ate out and just made suroy-suroy around Makati. They left late in the afternoon.

I was feeling restless inside my room. I still could not find myself to go back to studying. So, off I went to Makati again to see my friends who wanted to support us in our last Sunday. A number of them were staying in one hotel in Makati and I was so happy to see them and be with them. I slept in one of my friend's room and left the next Sunday.

Thank you Lord for my family and friends ;)

Cleaning Out My Closet

Literally!

I try to clean out my closet at least once every 2 months.

Why?

Because I want my stuff to be organized.

Because, as much as possible, I want to see similarly colored clothes together so that I could easily locate what I am looking for.

Because it makes me realize that I have been wearing some clothes too often.

Because it makes me realize that I have not worn some clothes that much.

Because I want to give away my clothes that don't fit me anymore or that I do not plan of wearing anymore.

Because it makes me think that while I do gain or lose weight every now and then, some clothes fit me anyhow.

Because it makes me realize that I have to lose some pounds around my waist so that I can wear again my pair of suit I wore in Practice Court.

Because it makes me think if I should start wearing skirt (hehe)

Because it reinforces my practice not to shop for clothes.

Because it makes me appreciate my mom more who bought clothes for me.

Because it amazes me that I still get to wear clothes that I have been wearing since 2002 (I don't know if this funny, weird or plain amazing)

Because it makes me feel more blessed and forever grateful that I have clothes to wear.

Thank you, Lord ;)

September

It's the Bar Month!

At this time last year, I was one of those who already took half of the 2009 Bar Exams. I have already passed the stage of going over my answers - the could have been, should have been stuff - in Political Law, Labor Law, Civil Law and Taxation Law and now going over the codal provisions in Criminal and Commercial Law.

To commemorate the middle of September, I am posting bar-related text messages I have received and suprisingly kept in my cellphone after a year. Here goes:

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" Philippians 4:13
Jaz, il be praying for u! God bles u! - Thyrza

Gud evening ja. Sleep na for 2m's exam. I knw ur good 2 go. Just do ur best and our prayers will kip u through out the exam. Nyt2x - Bem

Lord, we ask for the guidance of d holy spirit upon Jazzie n taking d bar exam. Give her a sound bndy and mind and the wisdom, intellectual capacity 2 cmprehend & give d best answrs 2 each questions. May u grant her wish 2 become a lawyer. Dis we pray n Jesus name. Amen - Tito Ben (mom's officemate, sent through mom's number)

May God, d great master, give light to your mind, give peace to your soul, make easy for you d bar exams and bless you in taking it ..Good morning. :) - Norhani

1 day, d villagers decidd 2 pray 4 rain. On d day of prayer, every1 gatherd and only 1 boy came wid an umbrella. That's FAITH.
Wen u throw a 1 yr old baby in d air, he laughs cox he know u wil catch him. That's TRUST. Every nyt we go 2 bed, wer not sure dat we'l get up 2moro, but we stil hav many plans for d coming day. That's HOPE.
Have FAITH & TRUST n God. Never lose HOPE. GOD is good ol d time! gud am - Atty. Rogie

Thanks again for everyone who sent text messages and prayed for us .. as in!

I'm saying the same prayer and more for my dear friends and schoolmates taking up the bar exam. Go, go, go!

A Choice

I read this very wonderful article written by Mr. Rene Lizada in today's edition of Sun Star Davao. I'm posting it here to share with you (Emphasis mine):

A CHOICE
By: Rene Lizada

"HOW people treat you is their karma; how you react is yours."- Anon

I have met some very interesting people in my life and I am sure you have.

In my line of work I have to deal with people every day and I have always been fascinated with the variety and the depth and the shallowness of persons. People fascinate me because people are so diverse. No one is the same.

And we get to know people in many ways. In their manner of speech, in their values, in what they do and do not do, in what they stand for, in their strengths and yes weaknesses, in their dress, in their choices and yes in how they treat you. You get to know a lot about people in the way that they treat you.

I guess most people would be civil to one another, I guess that would be the safe route. We show only a shadow of who we really are to people we barely know.

We treat them civility and caution. It is different when it comes to family and friends. That level in which we treat family will depend on what kind of family member you are. That is also true with friends, how you treat your friends show the kind of friend you are. But in any case, the way we treat others reflects the kind of person we have become. And whether you like it or not, who you are will slowly emerge. One cannot really hide the sweetness or the stench of a person, not really. No one can hide it.

But let us leave that aside for awhile. Let us talk about how we treat others. How others treat us is something beyond our control. How we treat others is something we can do something about.

Let me tell you a story. Leo Tolstoy, the Russian writer was with a friend and they stopped by a newsstand. The writer bought a paper and the vendor gruffly gave back the change. The writer did not say anything. The following day, Tolstoy and his friend went back and got another paper. The vendor reacted the same way. This went on for a week and finally his friend could no longer contain himself and he asked the writer why he tolerated such callous behavior. Tolstoy remarked that no one can tell me how and what to feel, I refuse to let that vendor have the power over me.

Sometimes I find it odd that we let people have power over us when in fact they are powerless from the very start. If Tolstoy got mad at the vendor, in effect he was relinquishing his power to choose what and how to feel. This is true when we meet someone and say, nasira ang araw ko dahil nakita ko sya. Your happiness depends on a person? There is something amiss with you if you think that way.

Your happiness does not depend on another person, it depends on you. Tolstoy and let me quote him again said it best, "if you want to be happy, be." Do not place the power of your choice in the hands of people because most people will put you down. Your happiness lies within you, it is your choice. No one can make you happy, only you. And in the same way, no one can make you miserable except yourself. Ultimately, it is your choice. And how we react to those who belittle us, judge us, despise us shows us the kind of people we are.

It was Christ who gave us the remedy for evil. If someone slaps you in one cheek, let us give the other. If someone takes your clothes, give him your coat as well. That is not being a coward, on the contrary that is the height of courage and strength. It is so easy to slap back. It is very difficult to just stand there and take it. But in slapping back, you give the other person the satisfaction of stooping to their level. No decent person will slap you deliberately, steal from you purposely. Only those who are consumed by hate and greed can do that. And if you slap back you fall into their trap. You and I have the choice. You and I have the power to let it just go.

Supposing someone stole something from you and you meet this person. And this person who knows that he or she stole from you will greet you and say hi to you as if nothing happened. What would you think? What would you do? You have a choice. You get down to that person's level and scream and curse which that person would just love you to do because that is THAT person's level.

Or you do the right thing. Let it be. If that person greets you knowing fully well what he or she did, there is something very abnormal about that. In the end each person no matter what he or she thinks, no matter what he or she does, will always know the truth. Each person in the darkness and the stillness of the night will have to deal with the things that they do. We all have to face our demons.

You do not allow that person to have power over you. That person might have stolen something from you but that person will never steal the dignity you have, the choice you have, unless of course you allow it.

Do not let those who are powerless over you have the power over you.

The Cell Phone

Congratulations to me! I got a new cell phone!

Yup, I have a new Nokia 2700 phone and the second one that I owned as brand-new.

I had my first phone back in December 2000. I think I first had a 5110, then came a 3210.

I had my beloved 3210 when I graduated from college, while I was still working and kept it until around early 2006 when I was already in law school. I had fun with my 3210 as I was the butt of jokes on why I didn't by a new one considering that I was already earning. I answered that I don't need a new one since it was still working. And I think the major, major reason was that at least if it gets snatched in Metro Manila, I won't worry much about the phone and how much it costs. I just have to worry about my sim and all the contacts. We even had this running joke that even if I would be very willing to surrender my phone, the robber would just let me keep my phone .. haha

Thereafter, my aunt gave me her Nokia Red Flip Phone (I don't know the model .. haha)., wherein I had fun doing the flips but I guess that resulted to more necessary fixes.

Then, after a year or so, I had this hand-me-down Nokia Gray Phone (I don't know what model again .. haha) and still keeps it to this day. And when I went to Manila for the bar last year, I also had another hand-me-down Nokia Orange Phone (Yes, I identify it by color .. haha)

Now, I have this Nokia 2700 as a replacement of the Nokia Orange Phone.

And the fact that I am most proud of is that I didn't spend any money to acquire any of those phones. Sure, I may have spend a few bucks to have some of them repaired. But I did not purchase any one of those.

The first new phone I got was a gift from my mom. The rest are hand-me-downs, which I did not pay for. And the recent one is a freebie from one of the networks (telecommunication networks, not TV networks .. hehe)

Oh, I know .. I'm kuripot!

Say What You Want

I sort of expected the worst when it comes to students' evaluation of the teachers. Let's just say I have already been warned and thus, I did not set up my expectations high.

A few weeks ago, I already received my first set of evaluation by my students last semester. You have the usual numerical figures as to how many students in a class chose always, most often, sometimes or never.

And then, you have the comments and suggestions part. Here are the Top 10 Comments for me, in no particular order (murag Ms. Universe!):

1. You should give examples not taken from the text book

(I expected this since I already told them beforehand that I'll be using the examples in the textbook so that it's easy for them to understand the illustrations. I found it hard at the beginning giving examples different from the textbook and then they come up to ask why is it like this or like that in the book. After the illustrations, that's when I try to change some facts .. defensive .. haha!)

2. Don't be too fast in discussing our lessons! Discuss it clearly and properly!

(I do not much have objection here except that most students really expect to be spoon-fed with all the topics. I always have to explain to them that it's a two-way street)


3. You can't do anything about the noise,
don't give surprise quizzes just because you are angry.

(I was surprised because I don't give out surprise quizzes. It doesn't mean that if the student was surprised, then, it's already a surprise quiz. Most probably, the student was absent last time when I announced the quiz .. hehe .. kaya nasurprise jud siya!)

4. Make your true/false questions easier. It's kind of confusing sometimes.

(It's probably because law school trained me well .. hehe)

5. I hate the subject but the teacher's great in teaching.
I get to understand the subject already

(One of my goals in teaching .. achieved!)

6. She returns quizzes and assignments within one (1) week. Brilliant teacher. She is very generous and understanding.

(Most of the times, I really return it on the next meeting. I was very appreciative when I read this, most especially because I have a feeling that the one who wrote this is one brilliant student!)

7. Olrayt!

(Another one of those comments which I have a feeling who wrote. And to think that at the time it was written, the student whom I suspect wrote this wasn't really doing well in class)

8. More patient during class discussion. Don't lose your cool ma'am just take a breath so that you may end the class not in a bad mood. Take care always!

(Admittedly, this comes from the only class where I get in bad mood, though not often. Maybe I am already tired plus the fact that daghan jud badlongon .. hehe)


9. Those student I hell we who do not know how to study

(This is the most confusing comment .. hehe ;)


10. Maau kaau mutodlo naa koy natun-an. Happy Birthday.
We love you ma'am. You're the best!

(Another one that keeps me going with this profession!)

Whether it's good or bad, positive or negative, I thank the Lord that I get to do what I want to do and that what I want to do really makes happy and content.

Until the next evaluation!

Anonymous

I would gladly appreciate it if you let me know who you are so we could talk things over.

I think it is safe to assume that you know me but I don't know who you are.

You can post a comment to this message (just like in the last post), email me, text me, call me, send me a message over FB or meet me in person.

We are not the principal parties so to speak. I would gladly hear your side as I would hope you will hear my side, too.

Thank you =)

Salt

I am not an Angelina Jolie fan.

I know she's beautiful. I am aware that she is a great actress. I am aware of her endeavours.

But that does not make me a fan of hers.

Let's just say that I am Team Jennifer .. hehe. Ok, let me explain it further. I just did not like the timing when she entered into the picture of Brad and Jennifer. Yeah, sure .. Brad and Jennifer already had their problems by the time she came. Yeah, sure .. Brad and Angelina are in love. I won't take it away from them. It was not just the right timing. And it just so that it happened around that time when my friend was in the same situation, more or less ...

And while my friend has already moved on and even watched Mr. and Mrs. Smith, I still haven't.

The last flick I watched which starred Angelina was Shark Tale. And she was not even there on screen.

Yes, I haven't watched Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Kung Fu Panda, Alexander, etc.

But around 2 weeks ago, I took the guts to watch Salt. Why?

I love action movies. I got curious with its trailer. My sister told me it was cool. And I need to move on (haha ..)

Salt was cool. Angelina did amazing stunts. But I sort of had an inkling of what's going to happen. That stole a little excitement from me.

No regrets there, though.

Random

There are a number of topics I want to blog but I don't know specifically what to blog.

Would I blog about how I realized I can be more understanding and more patient?

Would I blog about how Allan's first driving lesson with me went?

Would I blog about how I'm doing with my daily life with just having my dad and my cousin/secretary in the office?

Would I blog about how I treat my students or how my students treat me?

Would I blog about how I already had my first exam as a professor in law school?

Would I blog about how therapeutic it is to check papers?

Would I blog about how eager I was to finish checking the 27 notebooks by Monday?

Would I blog about my personal assessment as to how my law students answered their exams?

Would I blog about the comments I received from my students from last semester's evaluation?

Would I blog about my reaction from their comments?

Would I blog how I still opt to ride a jeep to school at time since I enjoy it?

Would I blog about how I appreciate alone time, even eating by myself at the foodcourt in school or in SM?

Would I blog how I enjoyed Expendables but can't understand why it is titled as such?

Would I blog about my dad who just turned 60 yesterday?

Would I blog how proud at the same time worried about my mom with regard to her work?

Would I blog how I'm grateful that I have a sister who acts as my fashion consultant?

Would I blog about how geek my brother is and how gung-ho he is when it comes to his collection of fish?

Would I blog how my sisters are doing well outside of the Philippines?

Would I blog about my numerous thoughts - from the cases I need to research, pleading I need to prepare, quizzes I have to make and all those small "to-do" things?

Would I blog about how I'm excited about weekends and holidays because I get to prepare for my classes?

Would I blog about how I want to donate blood?

Would I blog about how my back hurt at times because I sit much of the time?

Would I blog about the fact that the only exercise I get is walking 4 flights of stairs twice a day?

Yes, I think there is a lot going on in my life!

Burp!

Picobello's
Rai Rai Ken
Coco's
Pino's
Grand Ficus
Probinsiya
BC Chicken House
Bigby's

Burp!

Flashback

I was rummaging through my stuff this morning and I rediscovered my journals as early as 1995. It started as a requirement in school (Math Journals) until I decided to maintain a gratitude journal in college as inspired by Oprah. Its not that I write everyday. I just write whenever I can

And so, here are my July 31st entries ...

-oOo-

July 31, 2002
Thank you Lord for these two days, being able to talk with Maan, chat with Elaine, do and read codes for our project, read e-mail be touched with Mark Greene's last episode for ER, for a successful (?) and funny GP2W Bisaya presentation. Please continue to bless us and our family and friends.

-oOo-

July 31, 2005

Thank you dear Lord for hearing my prayers and just being there. I thank you for JJ having fun with Paolo and Diko (thanks to Tito Paul), for the mass we attended, for lunch last Saturday with Mom and Dad, for "Cheaper by the Dozen" and "Something's Gotta Give", for my not so bad recitation in Legal Research, for fun with the internet, for being able to speak with Maia and Jan. Without ... this is hard .. I just hope things would work out between (names omitted) ... It's just so hard to be caught in the middle :(

* caught in the middle

-oOo-

July 31, 2007

Thank you for today Lord, for the things I was able to do, digest cases for Lab Rel and Succession, for no class in Succession, for Dad fetching me since there was rain, for invitation from Felai for K1 (sayang, next time na lang), for people who paid for the transcription, for people who appreciate what I do, for Ate Cherry being back in law school, for no brownout (almost!). Thanks for everything Lord :)

*haircut - only a few noticed, hehe

-oOo-

I guess it's just nice to have that flashback and appreciate how time flies ;)

ETC - Part 2

Here goes ...

-oOo-

MINUS ONE

My sister Johanna already left for Melbourne for further studies.
Thus, from a family of 7, only 5 of us are here in Davao.
It's sad because our household is less "samok."
But I know that my sister wants it and that we're all happy for her.
At least, I have a really good reason to go back to Melbourne!

-oOo-

HIGH SCHOOL LIFE

We had a high school get-together over the weekend.
It was indeed fun reminiscing. I guess the bullies and bullied remained as they were, haha.
I was happy to see my fourth year seatmates.
Talks - whether tsismis or serious - were abound.
Pictorial-taking was fun, too.
Lingaw jud! To think, we did not have any program and no videoke.
Talk, laughter, pictorials, a little bit of eating and a lot of drinking (for them, hehe)!
It was nice to catch-up, especially those I haven't seen since we graduated.
I think most are married and/or parents.
We also had batchmates who got married to each other and are now proud parents.
I think the guys looked more "fatherly", while the girls looked gorgeous,
sa walay pag-pabor-pabor.
I went home at 3:30 am. I rarely do that.
And I think the last time I went home that late (or early) was when I was also with them
- my high school batchmates.

-oOo-

TEACHER, TEACHER

Due to insistent public demand (as if!), here more teacher adventures:

Student: Ma'am, about saan ang essay questions?
Me: Alangan about sa imong personal life. Siyempre, about sa topic
Other Students: Hehehe

-o-

Student: Ma'am, na-checkan mo na yung quiz?
Me: Wala pa gud. Actually, baka hindi ko checkan. Baka wrongan ko .. jowk!

-o-

(No classes in the next few days)
Student: Ma'am, hindi ka mag-date-date?
Me: Hindi, mag-study ako. Magprepare na ako ng quiz niyo.
Student: Bitaw ma'am? Dapat mag-make time ka for love.
Me: Ai hindi. Dapat ang love ang mag-make time para sa akin.
(Ay, ewan bakit yun nasagot ko .. haha!)

-oOo-

That's all for now. I hope I get back to my regular programming.

ETC - Part 1

My apologies for being negligent with my blog for quite some time. It's not that I am very busy. But sometimes, while I do want to write about what's happening with me, at the same time, I find myself doing more urgent stuff (like preparing for my lectures .. hehe).

Anyway, here goes some stories and encounters I have had over the last few weeks

-oOo-

New President, New Hair

On the day that P-Noy was sworn in, I was at the parlor and having my hair make-over.
Now, I'm back to a shorter hair

Me: (Coming in class)
Class: Wow!
Me: Asus!

Me: (Coming in another class)
Class: Clap! Clap!
Me: Nge!
Student: Ma'am, ni-bata gud ka sa imong hair. Mura ka na si Dora, ka-cute!
Me: Walay plus ha!

-oOo-

Teacher, Teacher

Teaching 3 subjects and 170 students is not an easy feat. It requires effort, both physically, mentally and emotionally.

Teaching in Law School is a dream come true. That's why I am really giving it with my best effort. Honestly, I feel like I am a law student all over again - going over all the cases, the books, and the notes. The only difference is that I only have 1 subject, hehe.

Teaching in Undergrad is indeed an opportunity. Admittedly, it requires less effort than in law school but nevertheless, I give it my full effort. The provisions under the law are explained as it should be, with no cases, and basic accounting is just as it is, basic!

Law School students are more attentive and less sleepy .. hehe! I am not sure if they are just acting when they nod their heads as if they are agreeing with me but I can feel that they listen to me and that they daydream less.

Undergrad students needs more effort for me with regard to catching their attention. I already called the attention of who were in the act of sleeping. Admittedly, there are students who are really attentive and they are the ones who get good grades.

Me: An example of a potestative condition dependent upon the sole will of the debtor is: "I will pay you P 1,000 if I will sing"
Class: Sample! Sample! Sample!
Me: Ako na gani ang mukanta, ako pa mubayad! :)

-oOo-

Sa sunod na lang ang part 2 .. hehe

Toy Story

President-elect Noynoy Aquino doll

If ever a doll is to be made inspired by me, I think it would look like this .. hehe.
This was may cake topper.

Admittedly, these two hardly look like the originals.
But do admit that both are you cute.

At least, I have something in common with PNoy.

Smile!

Sad Story

Was it wrong in the first place?

Was it not right to impart?

I just could not get the point

I just could not comprehend their actions

I do not think I know them

I do not know their intentions

I cannot say it is all mine in the first place

I cannot sum up my emotions right now

But I believe they cannot stake a claim on it

But I pray things will be better in the end

It is just frustrating that my objective was not achieved

It is just frustrating that people of age cannot discern what act is objectionable

I thought I could set up as an example

I thought I could institute change

But those were mere thoughts

But those were mere hopes

No matter how I try to be an optimist

No matter how I try to change perspectives

There are those that are outside of my control

There are those in which all I could do is express my opinion

People can definitely be frustrating

People are people

I only represent myself

I only represent my sentiments

I hope they would realize the repercussions of their act

I hope they would realize it was a mistake

It was not theirs so to speak

It was not theirs from the very beginning

Remember that it was shared to them

Remember that no one was deprived thereof

They can do their own stuff

They can decide what they do with it

With that, I do not care

With that, I have no objections

But if they did not put it together

But if they did not exert some effort for it

How could they ever think to do what they did?

How could they think it would just be ok?

I just cannot understand

I just cannot comprehend

Why did they do it?

Why did they have to do it?

I am deeply saddened

I am deeply frustrated

Why not pay it forward?

Why not do good?

I pray for peace of mind for everyone

I pray for GOD's enlightenment for all

My So-Called Life

I haven't had any blog entry for a while and my being busy is no excuse. Nevertheless, here's a rundown of things going on in my so-called life.

-oOo-

I was in a depress-depressan mode during the last two weeks of May. I just had that feeling of not being sure if what I've decided to do makes other happy and proud of me. Aside from that, it is really not a nice feeling to fail students. And then, there's that feeling of entering another school year but this time, I'm not a student anymore. I know that it's weird that it makes me sad. It's just that I missed being with my classmates (char lang!)

-oOo-

My mom and dad celebrated their 30th Wedding Anniversary and it really makes me proud and happy of our family. I know we had our trials, especially the past year (believe it or not!) but our family was able to sail through it. I pray for more happy years for my mom and dad and for our whole family as well.

-oOo-

Since we decided to celebrate my mom and dad's 30th Wedding Anniversary, I decided to have a Thanksgiving Dinner as well, considering that a number of people have been badgering me and my dad for it. They even offered to donate lechons .. and yes, the lechons were all donated .. hehe. Thanks to our sponsors as well as to those who attended.

-oOo-

I was happy when I saw familiar faces at the IBP orientation and now I can say that I am a full-fledged IBP member. Aside from that, I was really happy and eager to acquire my notarial commission (as in!)

-oOo-

To those who are wondering, I haven't had any court appearance before a judge yet. I was about to at one time but the judge was on leave. The other time, I had an ex-parte special proceeding before the clerk of court. And had my dad behind me for support .. haha. To think mag-30 nako ;)

-oOo-

I have 2 units in Law School and as I've mentioned in my previous blog, I am truly happy and honored to be one of the professors. Just the same, I have to prepare and give it my best. Yes, I still digest cases and review all the notes I have. Study gihapon .. hehe

-oOo-

I also have 9 units in the undergrad - 3 units in Basic Accounting and 6 units in ObliCon.

New faces! Definitely a challenge to familiarize myself with my students.

-oOo-

I am currently handling approximately 120 students all in all. Add that to the 220 students I handled last second semester and summer. Oh my! So many faces and names to remember. I think I have no problem with faces as of now. But I am starting to forget some names .. tsk, tsk.

-oOo-

My schedule is erratic since I go back and forth between AdDU and our law office. Except for the heat, I think I am ok .. for the love of teaching ;)

-oOo-

Speaking of our law office, I am working under the tutelage of my dad which I know I am privileged to experience. Since I am still new, I still have free time in between preparing pleadings, affidavits, answering the phone, receiving mails, photocopying, having classes among others. And so I put it into good use by preparing for my class. What a schedule!

-oOo-

I just attended the LA Orientation last night. I was happy to see familiar faces. This time, I had my chance to speak in a LA orientation. Thanks

-oOo-

My mom had our old house at Ecoland renovated and it looks really nice. The place is being rented out and eventually will be bought. I still get sentimental over it even if we have transferred for over a year now. I was on the brink of crying when I saw the pictures. That's life .. sometimes, we just have to let go...

-oOo-

One of my sisters is leaving for Australia by next week - another one leaves our home. We tease ourselves every now and then when we get together (ui bonding ..) and the fact that we're pretty sure we're going to cry. Again, that is part of life ...

-oOo-

I just love listening to the radio nowadays. I like listening to newest upbeat songs and just sing to myself whenever I can kahit nagkapuliki na sa lyrics .. hehe

-oOo-

I had my summer adventure last Saturday with dear friends. It was a blast. We enjoyed the serenity of the beach and the adventure of another. I had fun exploring the white sand as well as the deep blue sea. The slide and dive were definitely memorable. The banana boat was a total adventure! It was my second time but I was still nevertheless happy and super ecstatic that I shared the experience with my dear friends and of course, Allan (hehe)! Kahit pamaol the next day .. as in! hehe

-oOo

I'm pretty ok with how my life is nowadays. I don't know what the future holds for me or how my emotions will be as I go through each day. I just pray that with GOD's guidance, things will really be okay. I know I am super-blessed nevertheless and for that, I am still grateful ;)

In Good Company

I always find it extraordinary whenever I hear that my elementary and high school batchmates get to play basketball with my dad. I think some of them got to play with my dad since I was in college and until now that my dad is turning 60, my former classmates still get to play with him. Weird but cool nevertheless!

Now that I am practicing law, I still find myself amazed that my former law school classmates get to be in the same court with my dad.

As for me, I still find myself in disbelief that I am in this field because I get to work with my mom and dad's peers, who, many years ago, were my "titos and titas". But now, I already found myself working for a client and my "tito" working for another.

Aside from the practice of law, the world of teaching is another realm that I am facing.

My former teachers in college are now my colleagues.

And now as I embark on another journey in teaching law, I feel so blessed that I get to be in the company of my former professors who have helped me in becoming a lawyer that I am today. I still have to pinch myself that I sat beside one of the most respected (and probably one of the most feared) professors in law school. In front of me is our dean. And I was surrounded by my professors and treated as one of them.

I know that I have a lot to prove because I have just passed the bar. I cannot blame if there will be others who will undermine my capabilities. I was not a bar topnotcher nor a cum laude in law school. But I think that would not hinder me in doing my best. In fact, that should motivate me. I already experienced being an underdog and I was able to prove that I could be one of the best.

I pray that I will still do great with the things I do.

I pray that I will always be mindful of all the blessings that have come my way.

I pray that I will always be worthy of being in good company.

100 Movies to See Before You Die: The Modern Classics (1990-2009)

Actually, this only includes the 24 movies I watched out of the 100.
The list is from Yahoo and only includes movies from 1990-2009.
So, since I have only watched 24 out of the 100, I think I must not die yet .. hehe

1. Beauty and the Beast
2. Forrest Gump
3. Four Weddings and a Funeral
4. The Shawshank Redemption
5. Babe
6. Clueless
7. Sense and Sensibility
8. Scream
9. Titanic
10. Saving Private Ryan
11. There's Something About Mary
12. American Beauty
13. Election
14. The Matrix
15. The Sixth Sense
16. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
17. The Lord of the Rings
18. Finding Nemo
19. Sideways
20. The 40-Year Old Virgin
21. The Bourne Ultimatum
22. Michael Clayton
23. Slumdog Millionaire
24. Avatar

Close Encounters of the Third Kind ..

... not really!

I had a great time last night with some of my good friends over dinner and smoothies.

But this is not about our laugh-out reminiscing. Rather, I had some encounters that made me reflect on me being a teacher.

Whenever I go out nowadays, my students add to the growing list of people I encounter in my daily life.

Last night, we were waiting for dinner and one of my students saw me. He approached our table and explained that he forgot to give me the list I was asking for. I said no problem and then left. My friends wondered at first but when they heard the word "ma'am", they got the point.

We were already eating when I saw one my students passing by. He didn't see me. But it made me remember that a week ago, he shouted "ma'am" when he saw me along Jacinto St. and he was driving his car. What made it a hilarious encounter was he backed-up, opened his window and said hello. Weird but true!

Going back yesterday, we went to the grocery and another student of mine approached me. I asked how was she and her classmates and she said she was ok. She however shared the predicament of her two classmates, also students of mine, and made me sad.

Yes, the "teacher" thing goes beyond the school campus as I have shared. I do find it cool that my students greet me whenever they see me inside the campus. Some students who failed in my subjects even greet me, although there were a couple who didn't notice me.

I do appreciate the gesture of them congratulating me (yes, they knew I was waiting for the bar results), even going out of their way and going after me to say congratulations.

Most of them look happy when they see me (or maybe it's all in my mind). Some just say the usual respects, which I appreciate because I am still like that. Even if my co-teachers were my teachers before, I still say my usual respects to them.

My encounters with my students may not me newsworthy as that of close encounters with aliens. But I will take it any day. Nice!

Haven't Met You Yet

I get upbeat whenever I hear this over the radio,
though the song is not connected to my current state
(that I haven't met that somebody yet .. hehe)
The song is lovely. I just love Michael Buble!



HAVEN'T MET YOU YET Michael Buble

I'm not surprised, not everything lasts
I've broken my heart so many times, I stopped keeping track
Talk myself in, I talk myself out
I get all worked up, then I let myself down

I tried so very hard not to lose it
I came up with a million excuses
I thought, I thought of every possibility

And I know someday that it'll all turn out
You'll make me work, so we can work to work it out
And I promise you, kid, that I give so much more than I get
I just haven't met you yet

I might have to wait, I'll never give up
I guess it's half timing, and the other half's luck
Wherever you are, whenever it's right
You'll come out of nowhere and into my life

And I know that we can be so amazing
And, baby, your love is gonna change me
And now I can see every possibility

And somehow I know that it'll all turn out
You'll make me work, so we can work to work it out
And I promise you, kid, I give so much more than I get
I just haven't met you yet

They say all's fair
In love and war
But I won't need to fight it
We'll get it right and we'll be united

And I know that we can be so amazing
And being in your life is gonna change me
And now I can see every single possibility

And someday I know it'll all turn out
And I'll work to work it out
Promise you, kid, I'll give more than I get
Than I get, than I get, than I get

Oh, you know it'll all turn out
And you'll make me work so we can work to work it out
And I promise you kid to give so much more than I get
Yeah, I just haven't met you yet

I just haven't met you yet
Oh, promise you, kid
To give so much more than I get

I said love, love, love, love
Love, love, love, love
(I just haven't met you yet)
Love, love, love, love
Love, love
I just haven't met you yet

21 Guns

It has almost been a month since my last blog. I guess I have been quite busy (or busy-busyhan lang .. hehe). So, I decided to make a quick blog about some 21 thoughts that make my life a blast!

1. I got excited when I was offered to do election stuff at Kidapawan. I have long wanted to go there since Aning has invited me a number of times since time immemorial to go to their place. I got to see her cute kid Santi. Aside from that, I also got to visit my Tita Dawn's Cafe.

2. Although I was excited about that election thing, I was quite sad that I did not get to vote and have that PCOS machine congratulate me. But I am happy with how the automated stuff worked after all those negative criticisms of failure of elections due to automation. I had more faith that the automation will work than the promises made by politicians .. honestly.

3. My sister sent me an SMS during election day saying how long they were at the precinct before they were able to vote. My mom even had the initiative to help out in organizing the lines .. o, ha .. so proud of my mom!

4. And by reason of such deployment, I was not also able to meet up with my dear friend Maan, Elaine, Paula and Farinah .. sayang!

5. And in addition, I also got to miss out Mother's Day with my mom. But of course, I called up and sent her a text message ;)

6. While automation is something to be celebrated considering that our dear teachers were less stressed, vote-buying and terrorism continue and for which automation cannot solve for this goes down to the morality of every person.

7. I can't hide the fact that I did get intimidated having my former professors/mentors on the other side of the fence. The good thing is that we did not have much issue during canvassing at the place where we deployed. Oh well, I am easily intimidated even by my former classmates .. hehe.

8. I already took my oath as an attorney and signed in the Roll of Attorneys - Roll Number 57665. Yahoo!

9. I have to thank my hairdresser and make-up artist cum attorney and also room mate Hanniyah for prepping me up for the oath-taking.

10. I noticed that I did not have much pictures with my parents at the PICC as well as with my other classmates who had tons of picture-taking opportunities at the Plenary hall.

11. I am still looking forward to that day when I have a group picture with my Manila review buddies (or shall I say Manila eating buddies.. hehe) Noche, Julius and Michael.

12. Metro Manila is one hectic place to be and it makes me appreciate Davao more. Whether we took the MRT or a taxi, it was toxic to commute. Moreso, when it rains ... aargh! It makes you stay at home.

13. I was kind of sad since I did not get to meet my friends or some of my relatives when I was in Manila. I had to some attorney's stuff and errands to do and while there was free time in between, my schedule was erratic and not to mention the inconvenience of commuting that I was not able to meet my friends and relatives.

14. Nevertheless, I still got my share of suroy-suroy since I got to go to MOA, Serendra and Glorietta/Greenbelt area .. not bad at all.

15. I am also thankful to my dear Allan for accompanying me in getting lost at Leviste Street , Makati in search of Delta Airlines and at the same time having to hurry up since we still have to sign in the Roll of Attorneys thereafter.

16. I am continually practicing the art of patience with the people I deal with and with the person I am constantly with.

17. I really find teaching Managerial Accounting strenuous .. hehe .. but I have to really push myself and give it my all. Teaching is not that easy and takes time, but the reward of having that indescribable feeling (uhhm .. Alladin?) is worth it ;)

18. I really have too much on my plate and thinks if I'm spreading myself too thin.

19. I love Fridays with Friday Recall at Killer Bee 89.1. When would I be able to belt out The Remedy (Jason Mraz), Love Song for No One (John Mayer), Scrubs (TLC), among others, in random succession?

20. Honestly, I do pressure myself a bit as to how I dress nowadays. I have to keep in mind that I am a lawyer and a teacher and I have to keep up with that "image".

21. I know that I am taking the road less traveled for now. I pray that it is the right thing and everyone will be supportive of it ;)

The Blab

It has been weeks since I last posted. I can't say that I was super busy, just "sorta kinda" busy with a trip, parties, meet-ups, classes and what-nots.

And so, just after a few days from the night the bar results came out, we had a family trip to Hong Kong and Macau. Contrary to speculation, this is actually not a "gift" for passing the bar. The trip was booked way back in December so that we will be able to make good use of our miles.

Anyhow, the trip was enjoyable, moreso that I just passed the bar exam (Sorry, I brought it up again .. hehe). We did our own thing around Hong Kong and went to Disneyland and Ocean Park as well. We also got to explore Macau and the hotels therein.

The trip was more fun since we had in tow Enrico, a 4-year old kid who is the grandchild of my mom's officemate whose family went with us as well. "Cocoy" was a joy to be with .. as in lingaw .. though, he had his crying moments .. hehe

When I got back, I then got to catch-up with my law school buddies. Three of them even had their parties on the same day. And so yes, I went party-hopping!

Unexpectedly, I was asked through text if I was willing to teach during the summer. I was so eager that I said yes immediately without knowing the schedule .. haha! Good thing that it's not that bad - an 8:00 to 9:30 class and another at 4:10 to 5:40. It's a bit tiresome considering that I have 45 students in one class but I'm enjoying it nevertheless.

In between classes, I stay at my dad's office and try to do what I can. Otherwise, I just prepare for my classes.

So, yes, my schedule is that of a working girl already. I wake up anytime between 5:30 to 6:30 depending on how I'll get to school and sleep anytime between 11:00 to 12:00.

It's quite different from my law school days (and I so miss law school .. no kidding!). But nevertheless, I kind of like living my life right now just being in between things. It may be a bit tiring but I'm enjoying it as well.

So, there! I just blabbed how my past few weeks were. Until then

Thank you

There are so many stuff to blog but without a doubt, THANK YOUs should be first put through.

Thank you to my everdearest family.

Thank you mom and dad for your love and support. I am so blessed to have you and for being so supportive of all the decisions that I have made. Up to this day, I do not regret going back to Davao and taking up law knowing that you were so supportive of my decision. Thank you because you have given me the freedom to decide and the freedom what to do with my time. I truly appreciate it that you just let me be - reading, transcribing, going out sometimes, watching TV, studying, eating and sleeping (hehe)

Thank you to my siblings Jennifer, Johanna, Jessica and Jeremy. Thank you for respecting my privacy in the sense that you would do everything just so that you would not disturb me while I read or transcribe. And this means, passing through the other door ;)

Thank you to our kasambahay Tata and Maricel ;)

Thank you to my everdearest relatives (aunts, uncles and cousins), both from the Sarona and Matela clan. Thank you for wherever you may be - Davao, other parts of the Philippines, other countries - I can feel your love and support. Thank you to Cadavas, Mercado and Jensen families ;)

Thank you for my neighbors in Ecoland.

Thank you to my PWC friends because through all these years, we still have each other. Special thanks goes out to my ever supportive berks Elaine, Maan, Paula, Farinah, Jinky, Bajo and Lyn. I am so proud of how we have stood the test of times and for your never-ending support and prayers. I am also extending my warmest thanks to your family, especially to the Samson family.

Thank you as well to my AdDU college friends, not just my classmates but orgmates as well. Despite of all our "kabuangs", I am happy that we have stayed in touch.

Thank you to Jan and Aning for not just being college friends, not just being my former housemates, not just being my former officemates but for being friends that I will forever keep.

Thank you to Maia, Leng, Che, Jessa, Ella, Michelle and Tin for being supportive housemates.

Thank you to my former officemates at Accenture. While I was sad that we parted ways, I am happy because all of you were supportive of my decision to study law. Thank you to my "Say A Little Prayer" February 11 2002 start group, PNS team, WS Team, Ross Team, CML Team and the rest of RETEK team. Thank you too to the DB group. I am extending my thanks not just to my Pinoy officemates but the expats and the clients I have met along the way. Thank you so much for the opportunities you have given me. My experience has contributed to my study ethic, as in!

Thank you to Kalaag and the wonderful things we enjoyed together. A special thank you goes out to the Pilot Julie up in heaven as well as to Atty. Shalu. I have so much to thank Shalu because as I was to enter law school, she was about to take the bar. And I have to kept in my heart her most precious advice - "mag-tinabangay mo". And I guess, my law school life has been an epitome of such advice.

Thank you to my 1st Year SR classmates. You don't know how much I treasure each and everyone of you and how grateful I am that you were my first year classmates. Adjusting to my new life was easier with you guys around. Thank you for the send-off and for being my prayer warriors. Thanks to my panyeras from this batch - Felai, Alia and Blithe .. I am so proud of you ;) Some may have taken different paths while others are continuing with their journey at law school. Rest assured that I am still here for you.

Thank you as well to my 2nd Year SR and 3rd Year Manresa classmates. I enjoy the times with you guys, especially during Conflicts! Thank you for being so supportive with the class digests as well as to those who helped out in transcribing. It not only helped me but other s as well.

Thank you so much to my 4th Year Manresa batchmates! Thank you for the camaraderie and for making my last year in law school easier to bear. Thank you for being cooperative with the class digests and the transcriptions as well. Just the same, I know that we are still here for each other whatever the future may bring. My prayers will continue for each and everyone.

Thank you to Lakas Atenista - both the foundation members and resident members. Thank you for the warm wishes and the super support that I was so ever proud during the bar exams. Thank you so much and rest assured that I will continue to be a part of this great organization ;)

Thank you for everyone who were present for the bar ops, special thanks to Mara and Judy and the LA members who were there. Thank you for your effort and expense just to be with us. Your Ondoy experience was not for naught because your presence during that weekend nevertheless sustained us for the last Sunday.

Thank you for the DOTA boys for the notes and even going to the extent to deliver it to Palisades. You guys know how much that helped us. I am so proud of you as well ;)

Thank you to Allan for coming to my life just at the right time. I am so proud of you and I am really happy for both us. We'll continue to pray for us and for our families as well .. love you ;)

Thank you to Team Palisades and all the memories. It was not just "kabuangs" and "pictorials" because the results show how we prepared for this. I am so proud of you Noche, Michael and Julius as well as Teen, Popong and Ogie. Typhoon Ondoy was easier to bear with you guys around. Thank you so much for making sure I was ok despite being so feverish during Saturday before the last day of exams. I will never forget the medicines, gatorade, vicks, skyflakes, flowers, hot water with alcohol! Thank you Noche for the headquarters, to Julius for the temporary hideout and to Dodong Mike for the Cooking Showdown. I will never forget all the fun and serious stuff that we did! Thank you too for our food sponsors, especially the Tan family and Shena and all those who delivered the food. Yahoo!

Thank you to for the Bisita Iglesia Buddies. I am pretty sure that helped us a lot in hurdling the bar exams ;)

Thank you too for Dean Inigo, Lolo and Lola .. alam ko mas malakas ako sa langit dahil sa inyo ;)

Thank you to the people at SBG for allowing me to teach during the second sem. I am ever so grateful with the experience and hopes that I will continue to teach .. hehe.

Thank you too to Ma'am Corpuz ;)

Thank you to my everdearest students who surely kept my worries away for being studious and makulit and the same time. Thank you so much because I know that you have prayed for me as well kahit nagkapuliki na kayo sa Accounting ;)

Thank you to each everyone who sent text messages, e-mails and messages in Facebook. Thank you for being my prayer warriors!

And to you LORD, I dedicate all of these because without you, I am nothing. I am super blessed and I will continue to live my life worthy of everything you have bestowed upon me. Thank you for the gift of wisdom, grace, patience, strength, courage, love and confidence that has truly helped me to be me. Thank you for the gift of persons - those persons I have mentioned above - for bringing them into my life. I pray that you continue to bless each and everyone of them.

Thank you LORD for bearing with us with our constant prayers and I hope for your continued blessing!

To GOD be the glory!!

Amen!

The Reader

Since last October, I already read 6 books (excluding those necessary readings for my teaching .. hehe). After taking the bar, one of the must-do things that I planned was to go back readings novels. Here's a rundown of those books:

THE CONCRETE BLONDE (Michael Connelly)

Justice is a Concrete Blonde because she doesn't speak and she is blind.

I started reading Michael Connelly when I was working. I saw in one of our ex-pats bookshelf Connelly's novels and I got interested because they were all suspense-thrillers.

When I was in Manila, I saw this book in a Book Sale and bought it.

What interests me about suspense novels is the guessing game. It took some time for me to guess who the killer is but the novel was a good read nevertheless.

WHILE MY PRETTY ONE SLEEPS (Mary Higgins Clark)

Another mystery murder. I think I started reading Mary Higgins Clark when I was in college for the same reason that her books are suspense-thrillers. But with her, it has a feminine touch, ergo, there is will always be a blooming love on the horizon.

I can't remember how many novels of her I have read but I still don't get bored with her stories, even if I am able to guess earlier than expected who is the killer. But the suspense is still with me just the same.

LOVES MUSIC, LOVES TO DANCE (Mary Higgins Clark)

And yes, of course, another thriller. Mary Higgins Clark's novels generally involve women of beauty and substance. And that's the same thing with this one. Same thrill, but I still relish the joy of reading it.

JUST BEFORE SUNSET (Stephen King)

The last time I really enjoyed reading Stephen King's works was when I was in college reading "The Shining". And yes, enjoy is definitely the right word.

I am not really a big Stephen King fan nor am I fond of short stories. But this book was given to my brother as a gift and I thought of going over it.

THE DEVIL AND MISS PRYM (Paulo Coelho)

Coelho always writes thought-provoking stories. And sometimes, it is too much for me .. hehe.

This one is quite deep but I somehow got the message. The story deals with good and evil. It made me think that indeed, we all have our good and evil side. But for those people who know evil but does not allow it to consume them, the difference lies in the power of control.

The thing with Coelho is that he all has these quotes that really makes you stop and ponder and I am sharing with you some quotes that struck a chord with me.

"It is always far easier to have faith in your own goodness
than to confront others and fight for your rights..."

"It isn't the desire to abide by the law that makes everyone behave as society requires, but the fear of punishment. It is always easier to hear an insult and not retaliate than have the courage to fight back against someone stronger than yourself; we can always say we're not hurt by the stones others throw at us, and it's only at night
- when we're alone and our wife or our husband or our school friend is asleep -
that we can silently grieve over our own cowardice."

"Whenever you want to achieve something, keep your eyes open, concentrate and make sure you know exactly what it is you want. No one can hit their target with their eyes closed."

OUTLIERS (Malcolm Gladwell)

I so love this book! A non-fiction but definitely, a favorite! As I was reading this one, I had so many "aha!" moments and it made me appreciate success in a wholly different perspective. Some practice or beliefs I have had before were reinforced. Some new thoughts were introduced. A very great read indeed! I am looking forward to read his other works as well.

Here are some of my favorite quotes:

"Practice isn't the thing you do once you're good. It's the thing you do that makes you good."

"Those three things - autonomy, complexity, and a connection between effort and reward - are, most people will agree, the three qualities that work has to have if it is to be satisfying. It is not how much money we make that ultimately makes us happy between nine and five. It's whether our work fulfills us."

"Once a musician has enough ability to get into a top music school, the thing that distinguishes one performer from another is how hard he or she works. That's it.
And what's more, the people at the very top don't work just harder or even much harder than everyone else. They work much, much harder."

"To build a better world we need to replace the patchwork of lucky breaks and arbitrary advantages today that determine success--the fortunate birth dates and the happy accidents of history--with a society that provides opportunities for all."

"In fact, researchers have settled on what they believe is the magic number for true expertise: ten thousand hours."

"Hard work is a prison sentence only if it does not have meaning."