Blossom

Words are not enough to describe how I feel since yesterday until today.

But I'll try my best to share Blossom's story. And this will be quite long.

I will miss you Blossom!

Blossom was born on January 1, 2011. My mom bought her as company for my sister, Bajeck, and my dad as my mom, JJ and I will leave for a month. Before we left, we met her. I was the one who suggested that her name be Blossom since my mom wants her name to remind her of her 3-week seminar in Washington DC when Cherry Blossoms are in full bloom. Mom would sometimes call her Blossoms .. plural, hehe. She was so small when we left. And while in the US, we always looked for the pets' section in every store that we visited. We bought a few clothes but we were more excited with the Pink Bed we bought her.

Our baby!

The cutie and her pink bed!

When we arrived, Blossom got bigger and some of the clothes we bought her were already too fit. We bought a bell for her collar so we would know she is coming, considering she was still little.

I tried my best to potty-train Blossom. I realized it was not that easy for her since we live in a 2-storey house and it would be hard for her to identify in which parts she can pee or poo. Eventually, we found pet sheets and somehow, she got the idea that she would pee there. Such a bright baby. Thus, she rarely pees inside the house. But with the poo part, she sometimes gets carried away with the boys (our other dogs) and follows after their act.

cute pa rin!

keeping up!

I love you Blossom!

In May 2011, she already joined a fun run and how excited she was. She only stopped when we stopped at a red light. She then joined at two other fun runs and we realized how fast she can go despite her size. We also let her join in fashion shows. And we noticed na hindi siya mahilig magrampa, takbo talaga ata gusto niya. But she nevertheless bags awards every now and then.

Model!

Mermaid!

Blossom loves to walk. Just say "a-walk" and her ears will perk. Once she sees us getting her leash, she goes berserk and so excited.

Baby, you light up my world like nobody else!

I so love Blossom. She used to wake us up in the mornings since it was time for us to take a bath. Eventually, she wakes us up so that we could open the door and she could proceed to the kitchen wherein breakfast is already being prepared.

She is also malambing and maarte. At the start, she would run to you. But when she realizes that we will pick her up nevertheless, she just eagerly waits for us to pick her up with her tail wagging. Indeed, so many stories to share about Blossom. She used to kiss a lot whenever we get home. Gikapoy na siguro siya sa kadami namin so her kisses were not that often lately

But I'll never forget November 30 when I brought her and Philip for grooming. Allan and I waited for them as they finished up. As soon Blossom was finished, I called her and she excitedly came up to me and gave me the best kiss she could give! I would later find out that it was the last one I can get from her :(

I also love the fact how Blossom loves Allan and sometimes, I feel that Blossom is more excited whenever he sees Allan than me. It's probably because he does not see Allan everyday and Allan does not make kulit to her often. Whenever Allan and I would watch TV, I would get Blossom and have her watch TV with us. Now, no more Blossom :(

Anyway, Blossom had a seizure on Monday night. I wasn't around. But she seemed okay. They took her to the vet the next day. It was also to clean her ears since apparently there was bu-og in her ears, as told to me by the groomer. By Tuesday evening, the seizures became constant and so I bought medicine at 1:00 a.m. In the dawn of Wednesday, she already bit her tongue and we brought her to the vet all the way to Buhangin. All for the love of Blossom. We left her with the vet and I returned at noon hoping she was better after being sedated. However, her pupils were already fixed and would not dilate. She was even considered as brain-dead or comatose. We were crying at the clinic and we decided to bring her home that noon.

In the evening, there was no seizure anymore but she did not seem okay. Although she would wag her tail and move her arms and feet, like she wants to walk. The next day we were so surprised because she can already turn and her eyes were already dilating. It was indeed a miracle and we were so thankful. I was praying that ok lang slowly basta surely. Over the next few days, she became better. She started to stand and walk within a box. She ate little by little. In the morning of December 10, 2012, she walked inside the house slowly. I was so worried she would fall but she simply would not stop walking. And again, her recovery was quite amazing! But that was the last time that I saw her being okay.

When I got home, she was breathing heavily. I thought she was just resting. After an hour or so, we were called and Blossom just stopped breathing. We cried and we cried a lot.

I so miss Blossom. I miss kissing her in the morning before or after I have my breakfast. I miss "kidnapping" her from our helper's room, or from JJ's bed or from Bajeck's bed. I miss walking her. I miss her bark, her smell. I just miss her so much :(

In time, I will be ok. At least, no more suffering for our baby girl. I love you Blossom and I will miss you forever and ever.

with Philip, Blossom's playmate. Blossom looked like a doll

I love you and I will miss you forever and ever!

Trivia Nights

For the past 2 Wednesdays, Allan and I have been joining the Bigby's Trivia Night at SM Davao.

I thought I would not be able to join since my class would end at 7.30. We just tried our luck and found out that they just started with the Roxy Trivia. While we were settling ourselves, I tried to listen for some Roxy info, which would be asked in the Roxy Trivia.

First, the Roxy Trivia was held. Then, the regular Bigby's Trivia.

I was thrilled when I found out that we won one of the 2 prizes from Roxy. I got Roxy slippers for free and I gave it to my mom since it fits her. As for the regular trivia, we won first (for the 2nd time!).

Since sometime in September, we have joined 4 Trivia nights at Bigby's and we always won - twice first place, twice 2nd place. And now, we also won the Roxy Trivia. Considering that we are not really present every Wednesday night, we only placed 3rd for the October Trivia Winner, where all the scores from the Trivia Nights for the month are accumulated.

I just enjoy joining their Trivia Nights. My favorite category is one involving celebrities/showbiz .. haha! I also learn from Allan as he also contributes answers when it comes to geography and religion, for example. I didn't have any idea as to who Martin Luther is (different from Martin Luther King) until he told me.

I'm looking forward to joining trivia nights with my friends as well. I do hope I can join the succeeding Trivia Nights - if not at SM, then we'll be at Abreeza ;)

Peek-A-Book

I love to read! I guess it's a requisite to survive in law school.

Anyway, I arranged some of my stuff today and decided to take a picture of the book shelf in my room. Tadaa!

A whole gamut of books! Most of the books here are mine, while the rest are shared by the family ;)

There's a "Giant All-Colour Dictionary", "Philippine Almanac", "Almanac of the Uncanny", "Reverse Dictionary", "Book of Facts", "How Was It Done" and 2 Stamp Albums stuck among the other books.

I also have the "FRIENDS" Book.

I have my Law School Books and my "for teaching" books - some of those books cross over.

And of course, the fiction books! I have the 4 books by Malcolm Gladwell (Outliers is my favorite), as well as books by James Patterson, Michael Connelly, Mary Higgins Clark, among others.

I also have the 6 Harry Potter Books and other books given to me by my dear friends.

In the middle of the bottom shelf, I have the Holy Bible and the Daily Bread - easy to reach for daily use!

Take a peek at my shelf and if you are a reader like me, I think you have read some of the books in this shelf ;)

Confessions of a (Non) Shopaholic

I have a confession to make. Yes, I am a non-shopaholic.

Don't get me wrong. I do shop for myself every now and then. And if I shop, it is usually on sale.

But I am not a shopaholic. While I do admire great clothes, shoes and bags, I just could not bring myself to shop that much.

I might as well share the following thoughts:

1. Cleaning up my Closet - I clean up my closet every two months or so. Aside from arranging my clothes, putting them in hangers and folding them correctly, this exercise makes me aware that I still have enough. I do segregate clothes which I should already donate, which I hope I could still fit into some other future time (mamayat unta ko .. hehe), which I could have repaired and which I could still wear. Knowing that I still have enough clothes to wear surely makes me second guess about buying that nice blouse ;)

2. One Two Buckle my Shoe - Wearing rubber shoes while "malling" discourages me from trying out sandals and other shoes, unless of course it would also be rubber shoes. I have also noticed that if I wear sandals, it would easier for me to try out shoes until I find myself falling in love with a pair. Then, I would try to convince myself that I do not need it and that it costs too much, hehe. It also helps that I don't know how to walk in heels. So, my eyes don't really twinkle with those type of shoes. Matapilok jud ako ba. I don't know if it has something to do with my back, my posture or I was just born that way, hehe.

3. Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants - Having sisters with almost the same body frame and almost the same shoe size (my feet are a half-inch longer than theirs) surely help a lot since we get to share clothes, shoes, bags and accessories. Admittedly, my sisters are more fashion forward than me and so it helps that I have them around so I could borrow stuff from them and get fashion advice as well. They do shop more than I do, but I don't think they're shopaholic, hehe. Sometimes we get pasalubongs from our parents or relatives, and we get to share it. It helps to know that I have those clothes and shoes to borrow whenever I need to. So, there is no point in buying new stuff.

4. Mother knows best - My mom loves to buy stuff for us and through the years, my mom surely has noticed that I do not have this penchant for buying for myself. Yes, I know I am kuripot in that way. So, when my mom sees a nice blouse with a good price, she buys it for us. And my sisters and I could share it. Having a mom who still buys stuff for someone who is Forever31, rather than one who goes for Forever21, is kinda cool.

5. Goal - Whenever you find me shopping, it's most probablt because I already had that in mind. Before going to the mall, I already have a goal that I'm going to buy this kind of stuff with this type of price range. I don't go around "malling" and then whenever I see something cool, I go buy it immediately. It would take a lot of guts on my part to do that since I really did not plan on it.

Oh, for those who shop, please don't take this post against me. I mean, it is your money and as long as you do no go overboard, why not?

Until my next post! Ciao!

Trivia

I love trivias!

I remember I was always excited and nervous (sweat and cold palms with heart beating at a faster rate!) for our GP2W (Great Place to Work) Fridays in my previous workplace. My team would win every now and then (free pizza, ice cream, etc.)

I also attended a baby shower and bridal shower wherein my classmate, Sol, prepared trivia questions. I think I could say "kinareer ko", hehe.

Anyway, I would always see this ad at Bigby's Abreeza about their Wednesday Trivia Night. I was interested although I know it wouldn't work out since I had classes Wednesday nights.

Last Wednesday though was different as I decided to call off my classes in lieu of the victory party of my students. I also had to attend a meeting which finished at around 6 p.m. Allan likewise did not hold classes that night since they had a meeting and he had some work to do so he could not leave early for his class.

And so, after our respective meetings, we decided to meet up and went to SM. We weren't really hungry but we wanted something to eat. While strolling, I saw the Trivia ad of Bigby's - meron din pala sila.

Allan and I ordered food and waited for the trivia contest to start. Allan started asking what time it would start, considering that we have almost consumed our food. They said in a few minutes (I realized later that they were waiting for the host). Then, one of the waiters mentioned that the group next to us was the champion last week. I warned Allan that I would get nervous when the contest starts and he was just simply amused with me.

It was our first time so I did not have any idea how we would go about or how many questions were there. White board and markers were later distributed and I decided to name our team "jazdoit", hehe.

First category was ad slogans and I think I only got one right - the slogan for Carlsberg. I almost got Obsession for CK, but due to lack of time I was not able to change my first answer, which was Lust, hehe.

Next category was Dustin Hoffman and I was able to guess "The Graduate" (although I never got to watch it!) and "Rain Man" (I also never got to watch it!). Most of the teams did not get it (most of them are younger than me). I was waiting for Kramer vs. Kramer but it wasn't asked.

Hematology was next and all I was able to answer was it was the study of blood and another question regarding white blood cells (leukocytes).

For countries beginning with A, I give credit to Allan for Austria and Algeria.

I think Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles was my favorite category for the night. Although I was not able to get the real names of Shredder and Master Splinter, I answered each of the specific questions referring to the Ninja Turtles themselves. And I was able to answer Rhinoceros but I forgot Warthog - referring to Rocksteady and Beebop. I forgot Technodrome though. (I think the other teams were not that familiar with TMNT - younger generation, hehe)

I got two wrong answers for Celebrity Mugshots. I wrote Snooky, instead of Snooki and I confused Gary Busey with Nick Nolte. I got the rest correctly (I was just lucky I got to read it on Yahoo news a few days before).

I think I only got one correct answer about those authors with their cats.

Fairy tales category was a fair game for everyone.

The last category was Autumn and I got "Autumn in New York" and "Carrie Bradshaw" correctly.

I had a feeling we were either second or first. Winners were announced. The previous champion was second place with their Midnight Chocolate Cake for garnering 23 points. Team Jazdoit won first place for 27 (or was it 29?) points and we got P600 worth of Gift Certificate.

Allan found it amusing that I was like a one-woman team since I was practically the only one who answered the trivias for us. The other teams had 3 or 4 members in them.

It was a fun night indeed! We will be back by sem break .. hehe! Thanks Bigby's! ;)

Work It!

I chanced upon this one while "facebooking".

Not leaving the office on time - been there, done that! And I am actually "proud" of myself having undergone such process, like a badge on my sleeve.

I am not saying that everyone should choose to experience working endless hours in the office or wherever their workplace may be. But to go through such phase is quite an experience and you get to appreciate life more!

"Work is a never ending process. You can never finish all the work" - I remember one of my Indian team mates telling me "When I leave the office, you are still here. When I arrive in the morning, you are already here. Work will always be there, you will never run out of work." I laughed and gave him a big smile and to this day, I will always remember what he told me ;)

I can even remember those times when I had to leave work at around 12 mn to 2 am and be back at the office the next day at 8 am. I even found it "amusing" that the bus still had passengers at around such time because it was during December. One time, the bus was even quite full - all seats taken!

One time, I was at the office for 24 hours! I was supposed to leave earlier but the one who should relieve me woke up a bit late since she also worked overtime the day before. I didn't take it against her though because I understood her situation. I wasn't ready for that overtime so I had no extra clothes with me, no toothbrush! I just didn't know what to say when I met one of my managers on my way out and he was just coming in for work and I was still wearing the same clothes from the previous day. He gave me a funny puzzling look and somewhat said "You're only leaving now?"

I even remember that time my last day of work before the Christmas vacation. I reported early on a Friday and my flight for Davao was the at around 5 or 6 am the next day. I do not know what got into me but by Thursday night, I had all of my stuff ready. Maybe I already had a feeling that I was going to work late. And work late I did! I asked my housemates, who would be on the same flight with me to please bring my luggage and fetch me at the office at around 2 am. And off we went to the airport, with me wearing the same clothes I wore the day before. I tried to sleep while waiting for our flight but I guess I, together with my Davao friends, was just excited going home for a vacation. When we were seated, I immediately dozed off. I woke up and thought we were already in Davao. My friend told me we were still in Manila and apparently, there was a problem with regard to a baby who was a passenger in the said flight. I was just so tired that I went back to sleep .. hehe

I try to come to work early - at least before 8.00 or 8.30 am because I do not want to get caught up in traffic or find myself waiting for a ride for quite some time. Admittedly, there are times when there is not much work, but I still stay at the office because it is so hard to get a ride when the bus or the jeepney is full plus I have to consider the additional time I have to spend in traffic. So, I would rather stay late.

And there was even one whole month wherein I spend every single day at the office - yes, including Saturdays and Sundays! I know! Tsk, tsk

I also read one time that the overtime we do is usually the reason why we need to work overtime the next day or why we need to work more hours. Our average capacity is 8 working hours. Beyond that, we are prone to errors and mistakes - in other words, despite the long hours, we are actually less productive. Beyond the 8 hours, we think less clearly and become less focused. As such, errors and mistakes will arise. Thus, additional hours will be needed for reworks and remedies.

As I look back to those days, I do not regret experiencing it. I have learned a lot from my experience. But I am happy that it is over, hehe.

Nowadays, I rarely do overtime work as a practicing lawyer. Although, I usually arrive home late, it is because I teach at night. I do some teaching work at home though - checking papers, preparing test questions and studying for my lectures. But teaching gives me such joy ;) So, it's not really overtime .. hehe

True Blood

A week ago, while waiting for the elevator ride to the 7th floor, I noticed that there was this blood donation activity by the Nursing Division.

I was curious since I wanted to donate blood again since 2 years ago. I even promised my friend that I will do it again for her, although I did not give any deadline ...

Anyway, I proceeded to the area, all by myself, with my bag and transcriptions. Blood pressure was around 110/90 (I think) I was weighed (55 kilos minus 2= 52 kilos - that's what the nursing student told me after I was weighed.)

I filled out the form and then waited for my turn to be pricked.

After my finger was pricked, blood was dropped in this container with blue liquid.

Then, I was told I could not donate because my hemoglobin is just enough for me.

I was curious and I asked why. The girl from Red Cross told me that it is common for girls, considering that we have our monthly period. I see.

I was wondering since this is my first to be refused from donating blood. The first two years ago was without any hitch.

The other one was way back in 2003. I was asked to donate for the brother of one of my closest friends since we had the same blood types. It was my first time and I was excited. I did not have any doubts since I do not have any tattoos. I also do not drink and I do not take drugs. I was also feeling healthy that time.

So, off I went to St. Luke's (my first time there!) Everything went smoothly. I found out that time that one  cannot donate if he weighs less than 50 kilos. I was at 52 kilos at that time.

I laid on one of their beds. I thought that I would feel the blood coming out from my body. I didn't feel anything and after a few minutes, I discovered that one bag was almost full. After eating and drinking lots of fluid and visiting my donee, I went back to the office to finish some stuff for our Christmas program.

The second time was in 2005 (I think). The baby/toddler of a friend of my housemate needed blood and my housemate knew I had the same blood type. This time I went to Makati Med. It was a Sunday. I didn't get to meet the baby/toddler. After donating, I went back home and started to cook for our dinner.

It was just too bad that on my third try, I was not allowed to donate. Hopefully, next time!

Simple Plan

I was checking the quizzes of my students the other day.

In one class, I "discovered" that at least 5 were cheating. I gave them automatic zeroes.

I already returned the papers to them. Only one approached me and said that, although he was sorry and he accepts the fact that he got a grade of zero, he said that "nalibat lang" since he was not yet finished with the quiz and time was almost up. I told him that "3" is different from "2".

The thing is I try to prepare at least 2 sets of quizzes for my classes (I have even tried 3 sets). Sometimes I just change the sequence of the questions. Sometimes I make the true or false as Part I but Part II in the other set. At times, I change some figures - and this is when I usually catch them cheating.

So far, I had only two students who approached after I gave them the results of their quiz. The others never said anything and they just made "bawi" on the next exam or quiz. Some passed the subject while some did not.

Why would people do things which they already know are bad? Why is it that teachers need to prepare 2 sets of quizzes just to discourage students from cheating? Why wouldn't students just be honest because it is the right thing to do?

The same goes for the rest of the public.

The other day while riding the jeepney, a passenger said "para". And the driver replied, "sa unahan lang kay nay camera". Apparently, he is afraid that if he will unload passengers in the prohibited area, the CCTV will be able to record it and voila, he will be held liable.

But why wouldn't he just unload the passenger at the proper place, with or without the presence of the CCTV?

Same goes for these overpass and barriers. The government spends so much for these overpass so pedestrians would not just sprint on any part of the street. In addition, we also have these islands with barricades to deter pedestrians from crossing just anywhere.

Why can't people just cross on the pedestrian lane or use the overpass? Can they not get the point that it is for their safety after all?

I guess I can sum it up this way ..

Do good because it is good in itself - not because we are waiting for some reward or because we are afraid of the consequences if we do otherwise.

Avoid doing bad thing because it is not right.

I hope it is that simple. I could only hope.

Alone

I guess I can say that I am used to it. Being alone that is.

It is kind of weird since I grew up in a family of 7. And being the eldest in the brood of 5, I had been always "there" - part of a group.

I grew up with people around. I don't think anybody could describe me as a loner. I have my close group of friends. But I can easily go with anybody (kaladkarin? jowk!)

I have a love life. But I don't get to spend time with him 24/7.

I attend weekday masses by myself. I can go around the mall by myself. I have even tried watching a movie by myself. I can do these stuff alone. And so do other people.

I remember watching one of the Lord of the Rings movie by myself as well as Mystic River. I really had that feeling that I had to watch Mystic River and I sure did feel proud that I was able to watch it on the big screen.

But I guess for some, the hard part is eating alone.

I can still remember that time when I was in college. The rain has stopped (the storm has passed .. hehe). I was waiting for a jeepney ride on my way home. But the jeepneys were full of passengers. I was hungry and I need to pee (hehe!) I decided to eat at Yummy's and I can still remember how I enjoyed my meal.

And when I was working in Manila, I usually do my groceries by myself on early Saturday afternoon (if no overtime!) and I eat by myself whenever I feel hunger pangs (kapatid ni hunger games na hanggang ngayon hindi ko pa napanood!).

Until today, I still get to eat by myself - whether at the school's food court, some nearby place or even at the mall. When hungry, eat - one of life's simple rules.

Holidays!

A 5-day long weekend is quite rare. And I thank GOD for it ;)

Friday was declared as a holiday in the spirit of Kadayawan. It might as well have been declared as holiday since it's my dad's birthday ;) After checking some papers in the morning, we went to Abreeza, shopped a bit, ate at Sbarro and watched the Expendables! Old guys rule .. my dad sure had fun watching it, me too!

For Saturday, I again checked some papers in the morning. Late in the afternoon, we went to pick up the lechon and viands for the birthday party of my father dearest. Party- party indeed!

I then attended the reception Sophia on Sunday. We were quite late for the ceremony and considering the traffic jam, we just decided to go to the reception. Then, I attended a mass with the family. Thereafter, I met my friends at SM and proceeded to have dinner at Dencia's. More chikas at Cafe Demitasse ;) We had to forego the durian hunting due to the rain.

I again checked some papers on Monday morning. Swimming time with friends (and Bamut!) at Magallanes Condo. Then, we had dinner at Pards to celebrate fatherhood and proceeded to the hospital to see Baby Boy Yap.

For Tuesday, I prepared Midterm exams in the morning. In the late afternoon, I went to the office to do some stuff then chika time with Hanniyah.

Time flies so fast! But I'm glad to have spend these past few days with family and friends ;)

Multiply

I got a bit sad when I read the news :(

It's a good thing that I always had a back-up, not just for the blogs but for the pictures as well.

I will wait for their instructions as to downloading or migrating the stuff I have here in Multiply.

For now, I will continue until the 1st of December!

Thanks Multiply! Moving on ...

Pinoy Ako!

Matagal ko na rin naisip tong blog na to pero naisip ko na ipost ngayon, ika-114th Independence Day ng Pilipinas.

Kilala ang mga Pilipino bilang "family-oriented" at eto ang 5 bagay na gusto ko:

1. "Ate / Kuya" - Wala akong mahanap na translation nito sa English. Sa Chinese meron, sa English mukhang wala. Matapos ang 1 taon pagkatapos akong ipinanganak, ate na ako. Masarap pakinggan.

2. "Tito/Tita" - Maliban sa "Auntie" and "Uncle", ginagamit din natin ang "Tito" and "Tita" para tawagin ang mga kapatid/pinsan ng ating mga magulang. Pero hindi tulad sa ibang bansa, ginagamit din natin ito sa mga magulang ng ating mga kaklase at kaibigan. Parang wala rin itong translation sa English. Ang alam ko "Mrs. Something" and "Mr. Something" ang ginagamit.

3. "Po/Opo" - Wala rin yata itong translation sa English. Lumaki ako na ginagamit ito at ngayon na ako kay tumatanda na, hindi ko pa rin maiwasan na gumamit nito, hehe. Minsan mas matanda pa pala ako sa kausap ko, haha. Nasabihan na rin ako nito, kasi nga tumatanda na ako. Wala rin ata itong katumbas sa Bisaya. Pero Bisaya man ako, gamit ko pa rin. Ito ay pagpapakita ng respeto ;)

4. "Mano Po" - Hindi ko alam if pure Filipino tradition ito. Pero masaya ako kasi parte ito ng kinalakihan ko. Kilala rin sa tawag na "Amen" or "Bless".

5. "Bahay" - Karaniwan sa mga bahay ng mga Pinoy, hindi isang pamilya lang kundi extended families. Bihira dito sa atin ang mga Retirement facilities kasi mayroon talagang magbabantay para sa mga nakakatatanda nating kapamilya. Nakakatuwa rin na hindi masama ang tingin natin sa mga anak, na may edad at trabaho, na kusang nakatira kasama ang mga magulang at tumutulong sa gastusin.

Maligayang Araw ng Kalayaan!

Boracay

Out of the blue, I just heard them booking a trip to Boracay. Honestly, I wasn't that much excited because I wasn't prepared (haha, what a reason!).

Anyway, as our trip was approaching, I got excited. However, weather somehow dampened my mood because there was a typhoon. And then, I just had that centipede bite, which, thankfully, didn't affect my ability to go to this trip, hehe.

So, we took a plane ride to Iloilo then rode a van to Aklan. There were rains along the way and it somehow made me concerned. According to the weather report, the next day should be better (yeah, right!)

We got to Tabon Port (alternative route to Boracay) and I wasn't impressed. Since it was low tide, some were asked if they were willing to ride a small boat towards a bigger boat. And so, we volunteered so that we could get to Boracay quicker.

At Tambisaan Port, we rode a tricycle towards our hotel, Boracay Holiday Resort. It was quite nice - not too expensive but we liked it somehow because the room was big and there was a pool. Thereafter, we went to the beach and had some early dinner. The beach was nice but dark clouds were hovering. It was quite a long walk from our hotel up to somewhere near Jonas' Shakes and back.

Here are some of our Day 1 pics:

That's my brother!

Took this picture!

Family picture

We did not go out anymore at night. The four of them had their massage and then we went to sleep. We woke up hearing the rain. After eating breakfast, we decided that we would go out despite the rain. There were times when the rain wasn't that strong. But there were times when the rain was accompanied by a strong wind. Now, the bad news was that the alley towards the beach from our hotel was flooded. Our hotel wasn't beach front, ok? So, we braved the rain and flood .. imagine? When we got to the beach, we could not stay under the tents exclusively for specific hotel guests. Eventually, we found a vacant tent. Dad, JJ and Bajeck had fun swimming while Mom and I watched them. We decided to go to the D'Talipapa for our lunch and thus, we braved the flood again. Mind you, the Talipapa was really flooded and you can even see Koreans wading through the flooded alleys. After eating, we went back to our hotel, which was near the Talipapa so we did not wade through much flood. We stayed at the hotel and my brother, realizing that a little bit of sun was coming up, tried to ask if we can have the beach activities we already planned. So, at 2 pm, off we went to Bulabog Beach where we had helmet diving, fly fishing and parasailing. It was so fun!

Helmet diving was a unique experience. I was happy that my dad got to experience it. My mom was afraid so she just waited for us. While it was nice, I was worried about the coral reefs.

Helmet Divers!

Fly fish was up next. I was excited for my brother and sister. I have tried the banana boat twice so I already had an idea, more or less. But with just the three of us, the fly fish went flying. Each of us fell only once - it would not be that fun if we could not get to experience it.

All set!

Flying! We're at the back of this holding for our dear lives .. hehe

Initially, we thought we could not go parasailing that afternoon due to the weather. But the weather turned out to be better and so we were able to parasail. Woot! Woot! It was a nice experience being up in the air! Admittedly, we got a bit dizzy towards the end thereof. And then, we were dipped into the water twice. I am also happy because Mom and Dad got to tag along and got to experience speed boat rides!

Up, up and away we go!

Beautiful eyes .. haha!

It started to drizzle on our way back to the shore. And while riding the shuttle on our way back to the hotel, it started to rain hard. Call it lucky! I call it blessed! In the 3 hours when the sun was up and the weather was ok, we were able to do the activities we planned. For the rest of the night, we had dinner and watched some tv inside the hotel. We could not go out because the rain was hard and the alley was flooded.

On our third and last day, we woke up with a bit of sunshine but the alley was still flooded. We walked through the main road in order to get to the beach. It was a longer walk, but at least, we did not have to wade through the flood. I was looking forward to swimming at the beach but the waves were too strong and there lumot and nature's "dirt" all over. So, we just went around D'Mall to shop for souvenirs. We went back to the hotel and swam at the pool. After a while, it rained again. I prayed that the weather would be ok by the time we cross the sea. We checked out and we crossed the sea towards Tabon port safely.

We went back to Iloilo and stayed overnight at a hotel. We had a sumptuous dinner and off we went to bed.

Admittedly, I had high hopes for Boracay. Maybe I just expected too much. I don't know. All I know is that I am lucky I live in Davao where nice beaches are not that far away ;)

All in all I was happy I got to spend time with the family and visit Boracay for the first time. I am also grateful that we had a safe travel, with no delays, and that we got to experience Boracay despite and inspite of the rain.

Until the next trip!

Bite Me!

I have come across a few centipedes. However, my sudden encounter with such kind last May 29 made me go to the hospital.

I was going over my clothes that fateful Tuesday night, trying to pick out what clothes to bring for our upcoming trip. As I was rummaging through my closet, a number of clothes fell on the floor and something bit my big toe.

That was so painful! I saw some blood and tried to adjust to the pain. But it was so painful! I then tried to lift the clothes to check what bit me and lo and behold, I saw one long centipede scampering away from me. I then called my brother that I got stung by a centipede and to go after it. But we could not find it anymore.

Anyhow, I remain seated on the floor and tried to release blood from the sting. I could not help but cry. I decided to wash the wound but the pain remained. Later, my brother tried to elevate my foot and put a cold compress, and later a hot compress. But the pain remained. I then felt some cramps and I was worried that the centipede might be venomous. And it was still painful!

I told my brother to tell mom and dad that I got stung by a centipede and the sting was so painful. I was rushed to the emergency room of the hospital and the hospital staff was not aware what was the first thing to do. After a few minutes, they put me in a stretcher, put some ice on my toe and injected some pain reliever into my veins. The hospital staff said that all they could do was to manage to pain. There was no need to worry about the poisonous sting because it would not spread to the other parts of my body, only to that part bitten. However, it was indeed poisonous such that it was so painful.

I was anxious and agitated because the pain was still there. My mom asked how painful it was - I said "parang kusi na dugay kaayo". I was admitted to the hospital. It was after more than an hour when the pain somehow subsided but the pain was still there. It was only the next morning when there was not much pain but the swelling remained. I stayed in the hospital for two nights for observation.

What an experience! I can't say if I was traumatized. I hope not. I just hope it would not happen to me or to any one I know. I would not wish such pain to anyone. And I thank GOD that I got over it!

The Litigators

"Just survive it"

The Litigators is one of the more recent Grisham novels.

I love reading the works of John Grisham. I got hooked with A Time to Kill and the main reason I read it is because I read in a magazine that Sharon Cuneta was reading it while they were shooting Madrasta (I know it's weird because I remember these facts!). Anyway, she said that she already read A Time to Kill but she decided to read it again because it has now a paperback version with Sandra Bullock on the cover - and I'm a fan of Sandra Bullock. I have to thank Sandra and Sharon then for introducing me to John Grisham.

Since I liked it very much, I tried to read the succeeding Grisham novels. I know I cried when I read The Client, hehe.

Anyway, I bought The Litigators just last Tuesday. I was eyeing it for a few months already but I was not in a hurry to read it. Every time we see it in the bookstore, Allan would then say that the next novels would be The Stenographers or The Process Servers (I know, corny!). Since I had some free time nowadays with no summer classes, I decided to buy it.

The Litigators is not really that much of a thriller. By reading a short overview of the novel at its back cover, I did not have any inkling of any twist or suspense action for that matter. As I progressed with the next chapters, I can't help but get hooked. I can't really say that there is a villain in this novel. It's like I want to root for Finley & Figg but I can't. But I just kept reading - I was hooked. And the only reason I can think of is because of David Zinc.

This novel is quite predictable but I just liked it. I can't really say that I can relate to David Zinc. I've worked long hours before, not related to law, but not quite the way David did with his previous job. I was happy when I decided to quit and study law. But I can't say that I felt so free like David because I didn't really feel I was a prisoner of my work. I always had a choice. I still had a life compared to what David previously experienced.

But I cheered for David. And even if I had a feeling how the novel would end, I still continued to engage myself reading it.

One thing that caught my attention is when they had to go trial against a big firm, and David was still new to the litigation and Finley & Figg did not have that much experience. Finley & Figg had breakdowns because of the pressure. And David was left by himself.

I can't imagine how nervous he was going to trial before a federal court and having no litigation experience yet.

I can remember my first few court appearances and how nervous I was. I guess I had to multiply it up to 20x just to have an idea how David felt - what a humongous pressure! And with my every now and then court appearance for the past two years, I still feel nervous!

So reading this novel was fun because I could somehow relate to it. I love these parts:

"Just survive it," he kept telling himself.

"You're only thirty-two years old. This will not be the end of your career."

-oOo-

"Just get through it," David repeated each time his stomach turned flips.

It's more or less the same stuff I say to myself before I go to court. I don't know until when I will get nervous whenever I appear in court. I hope in time I will be able to adjust to it. I am not really dreaming to be one of the best trial lawyers in Davao City. I just want to do good and not prejudice my client. If one would really ask me what is one of my dreams, it is to be one of the best law teachers in Davao City. (And that is another story!)

Anyway, back to The Litigators. I really had fun reading it - no major twists, no suspense action, but still a page turner for me.

The Avengers

I know. We have all watched it! We all had a great time!

So, there we are on the 2nd day of showing and on the 2nd row.

I love the movie! It was fun and a true joy ride! I am not a comic book fan and all I did was watched the first few movies (except the Hulk ones).

I am a fan of ensembles, cameos and all-star cast. So, this was really great for me!

Let me just break it down for you:

IRON MAN - I'm pretty sure that no one will disagree with me that Robert Downey, Jr. fits this role to a T. I love his lines and how he says it - quick, funny and a lot of sense! In a normal world, he would probably one of the persons you'll hate for his ego. But in this movie, he is such a character. I'm not a big fan of Gwyneth Paltrow, but I have to give it to her for staying in the franchise and being part of all of these as Pepper Potts.

CAPTAIN AMERICA - He is a heartthrob! When I first found out that he was going to be Captain America, I was not totally sold out since he is already Johnny Storm / Human Torch in the Fantastic Four. Different characters! Anyway, I enjoyed Captain America. And I love his role, being the old one, in the Avengers!

THE HULK - I'm not a fan of the two previous Hulk movies. I haven't really watched those two. When I heard that Mark Ruffalo was going to play the Hulk, a number of people weren't really sold out. I can't really blame them since there were already two previous actors who played that part and Mark Ruffalo who? For many, he may not be familiar. But I adored him in Just Like Heaven and 13 Going on 30. And I continue to adore him the Avengers. I love his scenes!

THOR - I watched the Thor movie and it was okay, not really amazing. I just don't have the same emotions as some who go ga-ga over him. But you got to love the accent .. hehe. And Chris Hemsworth really has similarities with Brad Pitt. But I am not a fan of Brad Pitt.

HAWKEYE - Another character that I only knew because of this movie. I liked Jeremy Renner in Mission Impossible 4 : Ghost Protocol and I am so looking forward to his Bourne movie. And in the Avengers movie, he never runs out of arrows .. amazing! He must be an heir of Legolas!

BLACK WIDOW - I'm not a big fan of Scarlett Johansson, although I don't hate her. I like her role in the film, being the only girl in the Avengers. And she sure has the skills!

NICK FURY - Samuel L. Jackson fits the role. Enough said!

AGENT COULSON - Aside from Nick Fury, this was one of the ever present character. And I just love it that despite of being in a top secret agency, he is a fan of Captain America!

AGENT MARIA HILL - Robin, Robin, Robin! It was only while watching the movie when I learned that Robin is part of this cool flick. Robin as in Robin from How I Met My Mother! I try to catch some episodes every now and then. It is just so fun to see her in a different light. She's different but still the same Robin (the voice!)!

I can't wait for the Avengers 2!

A Purpose Driven Life

I read The Purpose Driven Life way back in 2006 and these are my favorite quotes:

-oOo-

We worry when GOD seems silent on specific issues such as "What career should I choose?" The truth is, there are many different careers that could be in GOD's will for your life. What GOD cares about most is that whatever you do, you do in a Christlike manner. GOD is far more interested in what you are than in what you do. We are human beings, not human doings.

-oOo-

Your capacity to remembers is a GOD-given gift. You may think you have a poor memory, but the truth is, you have millions of ideas, truths, facts and figures memorized. You remember what is important to you.

-oOo-

If you know how to worry, you already know how to meditate. Worry is focused thinking on something negative. Meditation is doing the same thing, only focusing on GOD's word instead of your problem.

-oOo-

GOD is never in a hurry, but He is always on time. Great souls are grown through struggles and seasons of suffering. Be patient with the process.

-oOo-

People rarely excel at tasks they don't enjoy doing or feel passionate about.

-oOo-

When you are doing what you love to do, no one has to motivate you or challenge you or check up on you. You do it for the sheer enjoyment. You don't need rewards or applause or payment, because you love serving in this way.

-oOo-

Don't waste your life in a job that doesn't express your heart. Remember, the greatest things in life are not things. Meaning is far more important than money.

-oOo-

Do your own work well, and then you will have something to be proud of. But don't compare yourself with others. There are 2 reasons why you should never compare your shape, ministry, or the results of your ministry with anyone else. First, you will always be able to find someone who seems to be doing a better job than you and you will become discouraged. Or you will always be able to find someone who doesn't seem as effective as you and you will get full of pride.

-oOo-

When GOD's at the center of your life, you worship. When he's not, you worry.

-oOo-

Insights

From OUR DAILY BREAD

Don't worry about what people around you may think.

God sees what is done "in secret" and He will reward you in due time (Matthew 6:18)

-oOo-

God always rewards hidden spirituality. He hears every private prayer; He recognizes every secret gift; He notes and richly rewards each unseen act of devotion. You will be strengthened, and the Lord will make you all that He wants you to be.

-oOo-

The things that are done for God's eyes are the things that matter.

So, settle into that secret place where God alone sees and knows.

-oOo-

Jesus has called me to be at my best,

Living for Him when at work or at play;

He knows my heart, and that I can rest -

Why should I worry what others may say?

-oOo-

Jesus is all the world to me,

My life, my joy, my all;

He is my strength from day to day,

Without Him I would fall.

-oOo-

How many of us will pause today to thank the Lord

because we have something to wear and something to eat?

-oOo-

Contentment comes not from great wealth

but from few wants

-oOo-

But He wants me to see Him in His little displays of goodness,

which He demonstrates every day in hundreds of acts of mercy and compassion

-oOo-

The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord (Psalm 33:5)

-oOo-

May God open our eyes to His many acts of goodness

so we'll never doubt His presence and His love

-oOo-

If anxious thoughts keep you awake, ask the Lord to quiet your heart and give you the faith to be able to relax and let Him solve the problems that disturb you.

-oOo-

I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety (Psalm 4:8)

-oOo-

We advertise our credentials so others can be more sure of us;

He lets us fail so they can see that apart from God we're not much at all.

-oOo-

We need to recognize that "our sufficiency" is from God

-oOo-

Admit your failings. Don't worry over them, but confess them.

-oOo-

Speak

I was invited to be a speaker for my alma mater way back in 2005.

I declined. I told my former teacher that I am not yet ready. I was still working in Makati at that time, although I already informed our manager that I decided to leave and go back to Davao to study law.

While I was in law school, some of my previous teacher will make parinig that I should be a speaker whenever I visited some programs of my alma mater since my brother is still studying there.

Last year, I was again at my alma mater during the Call to Honors for my brother. They invited me again and I could not say no. I think they would not allow me to say no anymore.

And so, I was informed of the day I was to speak in my alma mater. The time, date, place and theme were given to me, as well as the well-known fact that I have to be in a Filipiniana dress.

I had to submit my resume and a picture first. I tried looking for a Filipiniana gown to rent but my mom decided to buy one. I liked the dress but it had to be altered to fit me.

I asked my sister if she will be free that day to assist me, my PA for short. At first, she wasn't but with a stroke of luck, she was able to change her schedule to accommodate me.

A week before the big day, I had an idea inside my head how I would go about in my speech. It was only three days before where I finally sat down and put my ideas into words. I had a draft by Sunday. The speaking engagement was on a Wednesday.

I had my dress rehearsal the night before. So far, so good. My client informed that there was to be a hearing the next day. He just received a notice and I have not yet entered my appearance. Good thing my father willingly oblige to be there instead of me.

On the day itself, I was there at the events center. It was surreal for me to be there as a speaker.

I was happy to see my teachers. I think this was really the highlight for me.

I was asked if I was nervous. Honestly, I wasn't nervous speaking before the students. But I was nervous since I was in the presence of my teachers and school administrators.

For now, I don't have pictures when I was speaking. My sister was busy with the video. And my brother was one of the awardees. My dad was attending my hearing and my mom could not leave work because of deadlines. I don't even have a picture of my tarpaulin .. hehe.

All in all, it was a nice experience. It was indeed honor. Honestly speaking, I never imagined myself that I would be a speaker in my alma mater after all those years that I attended those recognition and graduation ceremonies during my school years.

Thank you Lord for this experience.

P.S. I was later informed that it was the first recognition ceremony at the Events Center and it was the first time that they gave a medal to the speaker. Honored! ;)

Perseverance

Great works are performed not by strength, but by perseverance.”
― Samuel Johnson

Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Amelia B. Bonifacio, Basic Education Department Acting Principal, Salvacion R. Echavez, members of the EXECOM, members of the Management Committee, Faculty, Non-teaching personnel, parents, guardians, awardees, students, ladies and gentlemen, good morning

I am truly honored to speak in front of all you today here in my alma mater. Indeed, PWC has been a great influence of what I have achieved so far and what I can still do in the future. I cannot help but reminisce the great years I have spent here in. I vividly remember those years when I was usually seated at the front row of the class or when I was one of the first few standing in line with my classmates. And that was because of my height. Yes, I was sort of identified as being “small but terrible”. I was small because of my petite body frame at that time. I was terrible, but not because I misbehaved and often called to the Office of the Prefect of Discipline, but because of how much involved I was with my studies as well as school activities, being a consistent class officer. Indeed, it seems that my size did not matter to me or to my classmates and teachers as to what I can do. However, considering my small frame, I was not really known as one of those students who is physically strong.

With that, it is just but appropriate that I can relate with the theme for today’s Recognition ceremony. As said by Samuel Johnson, a notable English writer, “GREAT WORKS ARE PERFORMED NOT BY STRENGTH, BUT BY PERSEVERANCE.”

But, first, let me ask you dear students, what is your understanding of the word perseverance? What do you have in mind? Now, do not worry. You will not be graded on this question if you cannot think of an answer. Your awards will still be given to you in a while J But please do not think of an answer like “yang mag-persevere ma’am” J

Now, what do we do if do not know the meaning of a word? What do we do if we want to confirm our understanding of a word? Isn’t it that we go ask our parents or teachers perhaps? If we cannot find them, we go to the library and check out the definition in the dictionary. If the library is closed, do we give up? Not really for we could also want to find out its synonyms by making use of the thesaurus in Microsoft Word by highlighting the word and pressing Shift+f7. And in fact, with internet and the technology today, we can even “google” it. Indeed, we do not stop until we find what we are looking for.

So, have you thought of what perseverance means? Actually, in those simple steps that I mentioned in finding out a definition of a word, we are showing perseverance. As defined in dictionary.com, it is a steady persistence in a course of action, especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles or discouragement. It means to remain determined to a purpose even in the face of adversity.

We’ve all heard of sports stars, scientists, celebrities and professionals who made it big because they persevered. Our favorite fairy tale characters and superheroes, from Snow White to the Avengers, were all determined to conquer the villains so that goodness will prevail. Even your favorite Anime and Harry Potter characters were not daunted with whatever adversity that have come their way. And then, you have your favorite teleserye characters who also somehow depict some people who keep on going despite obstacles in life.

The thing is perseverance is present not just in what we read or what we see in TVs and movies. Perseverance is very much alive within us today, at this very instant.

We are all continuing products of perseverance. I stand before you today not just because of my determination from the time I attended school up to the present. But it was also because of an overflowing of perseverance from my parents and teachers, of which I am always thankful for.

And that is the same thing with you dear students. I may be older than you, but just like me, you are being recognized today because of your determination. And not just that, you are here today because of your dedicated teachers who continue to be patient with not just you, but all of you and all of their students, knowing that all of their students have the potential to accomplish things. I once read that “teaching is the highest form of optimism” and I could not agree more, for indeed teachers truly persevere in their belief that the youth is the hope of the nation. They remain positive because they see great potential in their students.

Aside from teachers, you dear students are being recognized today because of your parents and family. They work hard to send you to this school, ensure that you attend your classes, answer your assignments and study for your exams. They continue to persevere so that you, their children can get the best out of this life. As such, just like our teachers, our parents also exemplify perseverance.

Indeed, we are all privileged and blessed by GOD not just with our own determination to succeed but also with the gift of family and teachers who persevere.

Yes, you may say that we all have a long way to go. But it does not mean that we cannot practice perseverance in little projects or in simple everyday things. We can always show our determination in everything that we do.

You see, no one can truly assure us that the coming days, weeks, months or years will be smooth sailing. There will be failures. There will be obstacles. There will be mistakes.

The important thing is we rise from failures, we overcome obstacles, and we learn from mistakes. Do not be afraid of these failures, obstacles and mistakes. Do not give up and always do your best. Keep on going and keep doing the right thing and success will come.

Remember as well what Winston Churchill said – “Success is not final, failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.” Success means to follow through. Be confident and be strong enough to follow through your endeavours.

Again, to quote Samuel Johnson, “Few things are impossible to diligence and skill. Great works are performed not by strength, but by perseverance.” With the skill that GOD has bestowed upon us, along with our perseverance, there is indeed no barrier to be able to accomplish great works – no matter what your physical size is.

In the end, it is the size of your heart that matters – a heart big enough to pursue and persevere so that you can accomplish great things more than you could imagine now.

May each of us continue to do great works and accomplish great things. May we never forget to acknowledge GOD for the blessings HE gives us and for the virtue of perseverance instilled, not just in the students, but in each and everyone of us here today. Continue to persevere, continue to accomplish great things. Congratulations everyone.

Thank you very much and once again, good morning.

Delivered at the

PWC - Basic Education Department (Elementary & High School)

59th Recognition Ceremony

RSM Events Center

March 21, 2012