Ewan

“Ewan” is probably the most the appropriate word I could use in describing what I feel as to our Social Legislation Final Exams.

I wish I could say I didn’t study enough. I felt I studied just enough. Maybe it was enough. But what is enough? Ewan

I did go through over the formula. I did go over the definitions. I did take note of the distinctions. But why wasn’t I able to remember it precisely as I should? Ewan.

Distinct numbers were floating in my mind. These were the numbers I would use to get the benefits to which an employee is entitled to. But why did I get confuse on where to use it? Ewan.

My fervent wish right now is to pass that exam. I should be safe thereafter. But until then, I will still be in my ewan mode.

I know my grades are pretty okay in our quiz as well as the first exam. But just the same, a very low exam could make me fail this subject (simbako!) The bottom line is that I pray we pass this one-unit subject.

I don’t hate this subject. I am even ok treating this one-unit subject as a five-unit subject. And I like our teacher.

But the final exam was just complicated for me. Well, maybe, for most of us, or even all of us. I still have to meet a classmate of mine who will tell me that he or she feels confident with that exam.

Oh, well, I have to move on. I should not linger in this ewan mode.

Besides, I have a reason to smile. I did pretty well on our final exam in Administrative Laws, as in pretty well talaga. I got 95! It’s an amazing grade for me because I don’t think I have ever had this grade in an exam in Law School before. And it came just at the right time. I just felt I need to share it since this grade is my silver lining behind the dark clouds of Social Legislation.

I can say that I am happy and sad right now. I am currently grateful but worried. Ewan talaga!

I still fervently pray that my classmates and I will pass Social Legislation.

And on an additional note, I already got the result of my 4th exam in Civil Procedure. I failed ... I got 72.5. But I had an inkling of failing that exam after I knew the answers. But despite of that I am ok because I invested well in my first 3 exams. So, I am quite safe in Civ Pro ... so far. I pray that my fifth and final exam would be better than my fourth exam.

In the end, I just pray that I pass all my subjects ;)

Reflection

I keep two journals nowadays.

I keep a gratitude journal on which I write the things I am grateful for each day. I got this idea from Oprah (oo, close kami).

I keep this blog to write about stuff which I just felt like sharing to the world (or make that .0000000001% of the population of the world).

I used to have one additional notebook before where I just felt writing about anything. But that was before blogs came about. That was before I decided to keep one journal – which is mainly for those things that I am grateful for. Until I decided to just write in that same gratitude journal any other stuff I would love to write as well as those quotable quotes I get to receive and read.

However, it made me think if my journals are really reflections of what I think.

I am not saying that all the things I write are not true, because they are 100% true.

But can I say that they are not reflections of who I am since there are things that I do not write about?

It’s the same question that has been probably been asked from you: would you be considered as a liar if you decide not to tell something to some other person?

Probably. Probably not. It depends.

With all honesty, there are things I keep to myself. Some may be handwritten in my journal. Others are kept within me. And no other person knows about it. There are times I feel the urge to share it with someone. However, I try to stop myself because I feel that there would be no point.

All the things I share I write with the knowledge that people would know about it. That’s the thing with blogs. I filter my thoughts. I only share what I feel I should share, without any fear that anybody would get to read it.

The same thing goes for my journal. No, I don’t keep it in a safe place. It’s in my drawer along with some other stuff. Although I don’t really publish it, everything I write, I write with the awareness that somebody would get to read this.

And there are things which I keep to myself. I do not know exactly the reason why I keep things to myself. Maybe that is just my nature. But I guess, everyone has that at least one thing that only he and nobody else in this world knows.

Don’t worry.

The things I keep to myself are petty, most of them anyway.

The things I keep to myself would not change your life, I think.

The things I keep to myself I keep so as not to hurt other people, I hope.

The things I keep to myself would not make me a superhero, as if.

If it would save the world, I would let you know about it ;)

Independence Day

I would not be surprised if people would describe me as an independent person. I think I am, or shall I say, I project such image.

I think I am, in one way or another. The way I think shows how I do not depend on others’ opinion. I respect their opinion but it doesn’t mean I am wrong or that they are the ones who are wrong. The way I do things shows that I can do it without their help. Of course, I will be the first one to admit and shout for help if I know I can’t do it. But I try first if I could.

I think I can’t just say that one person is truly independent. Hello … we are social beings. Remember … no man is an island! We are living in this world where we depend on each other in all the things that we do.

But I am not referring to that kind of independence. I am referring to that kind of independence which affects on how we make our choices.

I think there was one time in high school when we were asked when was the last time I felt free. I wrote that it was those years that I was a baby. Of course, I can’t remember anything at that time (wonder child na ako pag-ganun). I just based on the fact on how babies live their life. They cry when they feel like it. They sleep whenever they can. They can choose not to drink milk if they are not in the mood to do so.

As we grow older, a number of restrictions are now being imposed on us. We have to obey our parents and teachers. And of course, there are those laws imposed on us, which we have to obey, even if we don’t what the laws are. (Pano kaya yun?) Basta, ignorance of the law excuses no one from compliance therewith.

Total independence is that being able to do all the things you want to do without fear or fervor, without care or concern. Just being able to do what you want to do. I don’t think anybody could have that kind of independence. If there is, let me know.

When I chose to go back and study here in Davao, I know I would give up the kind of independence I had when I was working.

I gave up being financially independent. Of course, I do have some money saved. But it’s different since my dad pays for my allowance and tuition. And I don’t share in the expenses here at home.

Unlike when I was working, I was free to decide where to go on weekends and Friday nights. I could be easily invited to go to places and do things. It was all based on my own decision.

But now that I am back here, I have a lot of things to consider. It’s not that I am being restricted, because I am not. It’s just that I have to let people know where I am and what time I get to go home. It’s just that I have to think that there are people who are concerned about me. It’s not that they are not concerned about me when I was working. It’s just that it’s different now because I am with them.

Unlike the past 3 years that I worked, I have to think of the people around me. I have to consider that I am living a well-balanced life – family, school and friends.

It’s just that there are times I can’t help but compare. When I was working, I could choose what time I get to go home on a Friday night. I could watch a movie with my officemates and have dinner afterwards. I could choose to just stay at home and watch TV, without worrying about those who worry about me.

During all my school years, I was never the type who would stay out late. I was happy staying at home and watching TV. Aside from the retreats, I can remember only 2 overnights when I was in college – one was for a project and the other one was for a deliberation for an organization. I seldom stay late, just for those occasional Christmas parties, school programs and the like. Asking permission was never an issue since I choose to stay at home.

Don’t get me wrong, I still get to choose. But being that person who wouldn’t want others to worry about me, I choose to restrict my choices. Unlike before when all I had to think of was me and work, I now take into consideration other factors as well.

Nevertheless, I am not complaining because I know I am blessed. A number of people in this world would love to be in my position – to be surrounded by such persons who are so concerned about me. I am grateful because I have lived and living this kind of life. I am thankful because I got the chance to be independent in varying degrees.

I may not be totally free nor do I wish for that one ultimate independence day. But it does not mean am not independent because I feel I am. And that is what is important :)

COACH CARTER

No, this would not be about the film starring Samuel L. Jackson (although that was one inspiring film).

This would be about Carter, Dr. John Carter.

Dr. John Carter is one of the characters of one of my all-time favorite TV series, E.R. He is played by no other than, Noah Wyle, of which I am a great fan of ;)

Of all the characters in E.R., Carter is my favorite. Aside from the fact that he is played by Noah, who is oh-so-handsome and who truly fits the role, I like Carter because his character truly evolved over the years - from being an intern to a resident, from being a student to a certified doctor, from being single to being married.

But why do I call him Coach Carter. It is because he had a number of lines in the series which have moved me.

Just last week, as I was doing my last-minute channel surfing before studying, a rerun of ER was being shown in the Hallmark Channel. I had an inkling that it was one of the episodes where Carter delivered some lines that I could not forget. I chose to watch (instead of studying … hehe) because I had that feeling that I should watch it. And it was indeed that same episode I was watched years ago.

In that episode, Carter was asking to be transferred from being an intern in surgery to being an intern in the emergency room. He talked to the chief of surgery and said things that really made great sense.

(I tried looking for the script over some websites but it takes some time)

He said that he knows he can be a competent surgeon, that he can be good at it. But he feels that he can never be great at it. He feels that he could be great if he would be practicing emergency medicine instead. He likes to be in E.R.. He likes to interact more with his patients, which is one big difference between those who work in surgery and those who work in the E.R. The Chief Surgeon just asked how old he was, 25? 26? And yet, Carter seems to be so certain of what he wants. The Chief Surgeon even said that at his age, there were times he would think if surgery was really for him.

That was one enlightening scene.

Yes, I would want to do something I could be great at. Unlike Carter, there are a number of things that I am not certain.

I have lived the past 26 years of my life just being contented of being good in the things I do. Sure, some people may think that I am great at some stuff. I thank them for that. But that feeling of greatness should come from within. Through all this life I have lived, I don’t think that there was one time that I was certain that I felt the greatness, true greatness, of being me. Maybe that’s the problem. I was contented to being and feeling good.

I hope that what I am doing right now is towards such greatness. And then, Coach Carter would be proud of me.

Great Expectations

The results of the 2006 Bar Examinations already came out.

Talk about great expectations!

There were a number of people I knew who passed the exam. Unfortunately, there were also some who didn’t make it.

It’s some kind of an awkward situation, probably one of the most awkward situations, where in you know you’ve passed and there’s someone close to you who didn’t make it and you are being asked if she passed. Take it from me ;)

Anyhow, if you were made to choose to pass the bar exam on one take with a 75 grade or to pass the bar exam on your 2nd, 3rd, 4th or 5th take but you topped the exam … what would you choose?

With conviction, I choose passing the bar exam on the first take. I know that being a top-notcher is a big deal. And I truly admire people who make it.

But I don’t think that they took the exam with the goal that they will top that exam, well, maybe some. If they did, what would happen if they didn’t top it but nevertheless passed? Wouldn’t they feel unsatisfied, unhappy and uncontented? To think that there would be other people who would love to be in their position in just passing the exam.

Sure, I believe in the saying that you reach for the stars, so even if you fall .. medyo naa gihapon ka sa atop sa inyong balay .. hehe

Being a top-notcher, cum laude and all those honors do not necessarily make a person. I guess you know what I mean.

There are people in this world who were just average students but are doing extremely well and successful in their lives. There are people who were so brilliant in school, but they don’t seem to be that happy, contented and successful in their present lives.

I believe it’s a combination. Work hard and use your fullest potential. Know when to strive and know when to be contented. Do not rest on your laurels. Do not be discouraged with failures. Stand up and be counted (huh? .. pang-election?)

Just do your best. If you do, there would be no regrets in the end. And if you made it to the top ... then, good for you ;) If you don’t, then, at least you did your best. Maybe you could try again.

I have nothing against those who topped those bar or board exams. I am pretty sure that offers from all over the world would be knocking on their doors for such achievement. But it doesn’t end there. One still has to work hard and prove that he is more than that title.

I do not dream of being a top notcher in a bar/board exam. I would not know what to do with it. Indicate it in my gravestone? Indicate it in my signboard or business card?

No, I don’t think so. I guess that would be asking for too much pressure. What if I will not live to their expectations, would they say that I was just a fluke?

I like to be the underdog most of the times. I like to underestimated. For me, this means that I could rise above expectations. It would be easier to make people happy, contented and satisfied. Less pressure, better results.

Trust me, I’ve been there ;)

*i am not sure what is wrong .. i can't post picture .. so plain text na lang muna*

8 MILE

We just had another exam the other night … but there’s more to come … as in more to come talaga!

I will be studying for 8 more exams for the rest of April … yes, 8 exams!

I think it would be easier if I would run a distance of 8 miles (with a few stops to catch my breath … hehe).

Oh, well, that’s part and parcel of being a law student.

But before I prepare for my marathon exams, it was great that I had dinner at Penong’s with a few of my classmates, had time to download some songs at Basty's and had a short chit-chat at Autoshop with some of my classmates as well. Energy boosters perhaps!

The Pursuit of HappYness

In my pursuit of happiness, I watched this film.

The first plan was to watch Dreamgirls with my mom and my sister. But I declined since I already made plans of going to the library for an hour or so (this doesn’t make me a geek – this just means I’m a law student!). I don’t know but I wasn’t really all-hyped up in watching Dreamgirls. I think I had too much of it during the Oscar Awards.

Anyhow, since they decided to watch The Pursuit of HappYness at 6:45 pm, I decided to watch it with them.

It was a nice film. Simple but nice – not much fanfare, not much drama, not much comedy. Just enough to make you think your own pursuit of happiness, and maybe smile and laugh a little (sitback and relax a little!)

And it was at that time that I thought about Thomas Jefferson writing that Declaration of Independence. Him saying that we have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. And I thought about how he knew to put the 'pursuit' in there, like no one can actually have happiness. We can only pursue it.

These lines made me think. Am I pursuing my own happiness?

What is happiness anyway? Well, we could go on and on with this question. But I could probably sum it up by saying that happiness is that feel good sensation,

wherever it may come from, even from the most simple things.

So, can we only pursue happiness?

Well, not really. I think we can really have happiness. Chris Gardner in the film eventually became really and truly happy after those trying times in pursuit of his own happiness.

So, am I pursuing my own happiness?

I think so. I know it sounds like there's not much conviction in my answer. Maybe because if I compare the things I do to pursue my own happiness with what Chris did, pursuing may just be too strong a word.

But, yes, I do things to make myself happy. I do things to make others happy.

Yes, I pursue happiness.

So, did the film make me happy?

Yes, it did. It was nice to watch. Tears were not needed so that I can say it was a nice film.

It was simple. It had its funny moments, especially with the kid around.

So, how am I doing?

I am happy.

And I continue to pursue happYness.

So So Deaf

Classmate: Jaz, ikapila ka sa CPA board exam?

Jazzie: Wala man ko gakape

I am so, so deaf! To think that my classmate was right in front of me!

My mind was probably wandering at that time.

And for those who are curious, no, I did not top the board exam when I took it (duh!). I passed .. period .. exclamation point.

Well, we need a good laugh every now and then :)

The Usual Suspects

On a Saturday, my sentiments basically revolved on the same stuff.

Yes, I could call them the usual suspects on my Saturdays.

Don't get me wrong. When I say usual suspects, I don't intend to be negative. It could be a positive suspect as well. It could be a suspect behind my smile or behind my frown.

As I've mentioned before, we usually have an exam on a Saturday. And so, from 12 mn up until 4 am, most of my time was devoted for our 2nd exam in Transportation Law. I was up until 2:30 am studying for our exam. I woke up at around 9:30 (yes, I still try to sleep 6 to 8 hrs a day). We had our exam at from 2 pm to 4 pm. In the end, I was nevertheless frustrated because I was not contented with my answer. Parang sulat-sulat lang ako nang sulat. There was a question or two that stumped me, but I had written something on it. I hope I could get some points on that. I nevertheless hope that I fared well in my past two exams, even though I honestly don't feel as confident as I could be, no matter how many hours I devoted studying for the exam :(

And then there's the DVD/TV thing to think about. I noticed that there's not much to look forward to on a Saturday night anymore (for me, that is). Maybe the networks don't put on the great shows on a Saturday since a number of people are out on a gimik. Anyhow, I watched 4 episodes of Grey's Anatomy. Time well spent. Nice episodes, nice realizations. Maybe I should feature it on a later blog.

I couldn't help to check the internet as well. There's my e-mail which I check but does not necessarily mean that I have a number of personal e-mails (read: not spam). There's my Friendster account, just checking for updates from people and wondering when would I find time to write testimonials ... hehe. And of course, there's checking out the blog of others as well as blogging myself.

Time-outs are usually on a Saturday. For law students like me, it is actually fitting so as to relieve the stress and the anxiety we just had on our exam. It's great to be with great company. Unfortunately, I decided to pass (for the nth time) any session tonight. Next time, hopefully ;)

There's that craving to eat as well. Right after the exam, I passed by Goldilocks and bought popcorn and dinuguan. What a combination!

At times, I do look forward to go to the mall. I look forward to eat, watch a movie, play at the arcade or just stroll. Since we just had the Araw ng Dabaw yesterday, there are a number of celebrities in town. Spongecola was to perform for free at the GMall. I like their song Bitiw. No, I did not watch. I was not in the mood and I had no one to go with. And besides, I am not a big fan of big crowds ... hehe ;) Come to think of it, it's been sometime when I went to a mall on a Saturday.

And if I still find time, I try to study for an upcoming exam. Yes, even on a Saturday. It might be weird. But it's part and parcel of being a law student (I should get an award for this).

Yes, these are my usual suspects on a Saturday.

Surprise!

Surprise!

I had a haircut today (see picture .. although, the new cut is not that obvious in the picture .. gusto ko lang talaga siguro ilagay picture ko dito). I like it. Quite rejuvenating. Got some positive response :)

Surprise!

Miscommunication! Our teacher thought our exam was scheduled just last night. We thought it was still going to be on Saturday. I haven't even studied for Saturday's exam. We got into a compromise. We will still have an exam this Saturday but we had the quiz as well. I pray we did good.

Surprise!

Despite the fact that a number of my classmates were quite jittery upon knowing that our teacher was expecting to have an exam, I was pretty calm. Maybe because I felt that we were in good faith and that it was basically a miscommunication. After our quiz, I was still okay. I pray that the result will be okay as well.

Surprise!

There was no Amazing Race via satellite on Studio 23 this morning.

Surprise!

Rob and Amber got eliminated :( Although, I do not really want them to win, I want them to be in the game as long as they can because they make the race more competitive and more challenging. Oh well!

Surprise!

Since I got home, I haven't opened any book. I haven't studied. I feel lazy. Actually, I feel sleepy. I am seldom like this. This is not me. I will make up for it tomorrow ... the procrastinator in me!

Time to sleep .. no suprise there!

10 things

I've been thinking about something to write for about 10 minutes now. No specific topic comes to mind. Nothing!

I don't think there is nothing really to write. I think that I am thinking too much that's why I don't know what to blog. Random thoughts are swimming in my brain.

Maybe, that's what I will write ... just random thoughts ...

10 things I am thinking about:

1. I am thinking how tired I was last Saturday. I was in school from 9:00 am up to just before 6:00 p.m. I did not have a banana for lunch when I think I needed it the most. I was really looking for it during lunch ... hehehe ....

2. I am thinking about our high school reunion ... it's been 10 years since we graduated ...

3. I am thinking about having a hair cut tomorrow .. actually, later since it is already 2:00 am ...

4. I am thinking about friends I should be adding in Friendster .. hehehe ...

5. I am thinking if I deserve the testimonials I receive (in Friendster pa rin) ... nevertheless, I am thankful that people think of me that way ... I just pray that I truly deserve it ...

6. I am thinking of when I could watch a movie next. A number of my friends have already watched 300. I haven't, but that's ok. It's just that the last movie I watched (in a cinema) was Mano Po 5 ... haha ... we watched it because I refused to watch Kasal, Kasali, Kasalo ... hehe ..

7. I am thinking how cute my cousin Mikayla is. I just saw her picture ...

8. I am thinking about our Bar Ops trip to Manila this September. Excited na ako ......

9. I am thinking of those instances where I was caught in the middle, refusing to take sides but somehow can't make ends meet ....

10. I am thinking that I should be sleeping by now ...

Oh well!

Of All Trades

Am I Jack of All Trades, Master of None? Maybe ...

Last night was another night well spent as some of my classmates and I went out for some food and drinks (drinks man gihapon ang tubig di ba?). One of our topics during conversation is what we do and what we love to do (there's a big difference between the two).

Anyhow, I noticed that there are lots of stuff I know how to do and I actually do.

I know how to swim. But I can't swim that fast. When I entered a swimming competition, I placed 3rd in butterfly, 2nd in freestyle and backstroke and 1st in breaststroke. The thing is there were only 3 of us in the competition for that age bracket. This was way back in elementary.

I know how to play badminton. I love to play badminton. I try to play whenever I can. But through the years I have been playing, I am not a great player. Although, I know I have improved over the years. Pero kulang pa.

I have played billiards. Pero igo lang makaigo ... haha!

I used to play basketball. I love basketball, too. But I didn't have that much opportunity to play. So, no opportunity to improve.

I know how to play darts. But I don't know how good am I yet. I haven't been competitive in this sport just yet ... hehe

I know how to play bowling. Maka-strike or spare man ako every now and then ... but I am not a great player.

I cook and bake. I love to cook. But I seldom do it nowadays. I do cook and bake whenever the opportunity comes up and I am not that lazy ... hehe. But I can't say I'm a great cook. I just cook. Sometimes, palpak luto ko, so remedyohan konti. Try and try until I succeed. There are times I don't even taste what I cook. I let other taste it because they are the ones who will eat it anyway. I think I am ok with cooking because I find it easy to follow instructions.

I love to sing. But I do not have a great voice. Siguro, nadala if nag-voice lessons ako nung bata pa ako ... haha! Pasensiya na sa mga tao na kasama ko if magvideoke .. gusto ko lang talagang kumanta. Just a trivia though, I joined singing contest when I was in grade 3 in our subdivision. I placed 3rd and there were 5 contestants. There were 2 who tied for first place ... so, actually, 4th ako ... hehe..at least, hindi last!

I know how to dance. I think I still got rhythm. I dance to my own beat ... hehe! In fairness, I joined the Dance Showcase last year. I may not be a great dancer, but I dance.

I love taking pictures and videos. But I am not a bonafide photographer and/or videographer .. not yet anyway ... hehe

I love scrapbooking! But I only do this during summer, sem break and Christmas break. I do not feel great with this skill though.

I have passed the CPA Board exam. But I am not an expert in this field. I took the exam back in 2001 and I was never involved in CPA stuff since then. I can't measure how much I know about this subject nowadays. Maybe what I have learned are way back in my memory box.

I worked as a computer programmer for 3 years. It was great knowing that I could be good in something I really didn't study in school. All I had was training and great persons around to ask for advice. Eventually, there came a point that people asked questions from me. That felt great! But I don't know about now. I have forgotten a lot of those stuff already as my brain has limited capacity and there are a lot of law stuff to save in my memory .. hehe.

These are the some of the stuff I know how to do or love to do. Of course, I am not superhuman. There are things I don't know how to do or things that I would never be good at. But I am ok with that. I am only human.

For now, these are a few of the trades I have in my sleeve.

Yes, I maybe a jack of all trades, master of none.

Make that JAZZ of all trades, master of none. And that is fine with me ;)

Playing Favorites

It's fun to play favorites once in a while.

However, this might be a bore to some since I am going to blog about my favorite subjects. (huwaat?!?)

As we were about to leave the class last night, my classmates and I had a short conversation as to our favorite subjects.

So it got me thinking .. what are my favorites? But before I start, let me tell you that the greatest factor in these favorites is the subject itself. The teacher could be a factor, but not that great. The grade I get is not that much a factor as I get to find out about it at the end of an exam or semester.

Back in elementary (elementary tawag sa amin, hindi grade school), high school and even college, my favorite has always been English. I am not sure why. Maybe because I love to read and write about a whole lot of stuff. My interests are so varied and English helps me in putting things into perspective. The teachers I had were good. More than anything, it was their personality I liked best (sipsip). But as I've said, they are merely contributory factors. And yes, my grades in English were pretty good those times.

Statistics may be a weird favorite for a number of people. I am not sure why I like this subject. I am not saying that this subject is easy for me because it is not. But the grades I got back in high school and college were over and above my expectation ... hehe. I remember one time when my classmate and I went up front to prove our point that our answer is correct in one of the questions in our exam back in College. As in nagdrawing-drawing jud mi sa blackboard ... permutation ata topic nun (pero nakalimutan ko na ano ang permutation ... hehe). Our teacher gave in ... hehe.

Now that I am in law school, I still can't help playing favorites.

Looking back at my first semester when I was in first year, I don't think I had any favorites. I was still adjusting so to speak.

But come second semester, my favorite was Constitutional Law 2 - Bill of Rights. I think I liked it because it involves those stuff I see on TV - "you have the right to remain silent ...." - all those stuff. The subject was quite interesting. And it helps that I could feel that our professor is passionate in what he does. In addition, I seldom hesitate when I ask question .. that is a good sign for me. There was even a time when we had the usual Q and A the day before the exam and somehow I got lucky since the logic applied to the question I had was asked during the exam.

I also liked Criminal Law 2 as well as Obligations and Contracts. Crim 2 because it involves crimes (tv na sab akong reason). I am not sure about ObliCon but I was always looking forward studying for this subject, preparing those reviewers and even making my own questions at times.

Last semester, I enjoyed Labor Standards class. The topics were quite engaging and I was eager to listen because this subject is quite hard to pass. Yes, LabStan is a favorite of mine even though I got 78. Actually, I am thankful for that 78. See, the grade is not much of a factor in playing favorites.

For this semester, my favorite is Civil Procedure hands down. I think it is interesting for me because it involves a number of subjects I already took the past year or so. One major factor is our professor, no less than the dean. Grabe! Parang memorize na ata niya ang Rules of Court! Nasa heart and mind na niya iyong subject! I am grateful that I get to study CivPro under him. Civil Procedure is sort of a summation of how things are handled before, during and after trial of civil actions. So, I basically get the whole picture in my imagination. I know that this is a favorite of mine because right after we discussed the answers to our exam, I already had that sudden urge to study for the next exam, which should still be at the end of March. O kitams!

However, this does not mean that I hate all the other subjects because I do not. There are those subjects that I least like, but I do not hate them. If I will hate them, it will require much effort from me to study for such subjects. And besides, all those subjects teach me a lot of things, not just those technical stuff but as well as how to think about stuff and even about life in general.

We all have our favorites - movies, songs, colors, actors, actresses, books. So, why not favorite subjects?

What's yours?

At this point

(O di ba, picture ko)

I am not sure if you guys have noticed it. But my past blogs have generally been about how good my life has been.

Of course, this may be an unconscious effort on my part. Hmm .. maybe subconscious.

It may be unconscious in the sense that I just decide to blog whenever good things happen to me.

It may be subconscious in the sense that I may be trying to block out negative things from my life.

Actually, it may be any, both or none of the above. This is me. This is my life. And this is what I write.

I am happy with our family. Sure, there may be obstacles. But those may be petty ones. There may be frustrations. But I can get over it and pray over it. I take the good things. For the past 3 weeks, my mom, dad, sister, brother and I have been playing badminton on Sunday afternoons. If that is not a great thing, I do not know what it is. When I was in Manila, I had this thought of wishing I could play badminton with family. And it is happening. I am grateful.

I am happy with law school. Sure, we have back-to-back exams especially with the end of the 2nd semester coming up. But that is law school. I knew what I was getting into when I decided to enter into law school. What I didn't expect was the friendship ... hehe ... such drama! The spirit of camaraderie, since first year up until now, that I have felt is completely beyond me. Its great to have classmates who trust each other, who help out each other, who study with each other, who laugh with each other, who share their problems with each other, who sing and dance with each other, who eat with each other.

I am happy with my friends because I still get in touch with them. Most of them anyway ... hehe. It's nice that after a number of years, I still have that connection with them. There are only a few people who get to enjoy this kind of gift.

I believe in the wheel concept of life. Sometimes I wonder when would the time be when I am at the bottom since I am feeling on top for the greater part of my life. But I don't think it is worth worrying about. I live the life I have and constantly thank God for every blessing that come my way.

I pray that I am worthy of all these :)

Blur

The past weeks have passed by like a blur.

Things happened so fast. I have had so much fun that even though there were lots of stuff going on.

Yes! We were the over-all champions in our Conflict of Laws. We are "oh so happy" and "oh so thankful" about it because we know that we worked hard for it. I know that it has been over 2 weeks since we won ... but, yes, I am still jubilant over it ... buot-buot mo? I joined badminton and legal pictionary ... we placed third but I was still happy. I will make bawi next year ... hopefully!

I was happy that I got to know more people in law school and I got to know better those people I already know. I was happy to cheer for my classmates and was quite proud whenever I see and feel that we helped out each other.

Right after we won, we went out to celebrate. It was great fun as we get to talk and reminisce all the fun we had and look forward to next year ... haha!

But the elation did not end there as the Saturday after the Conflicts, a few of us went out for drinks .. hmm .. am not sure if that is applicable for me though ... hehe. Maybe, since my classmates bought a pina colada for me. And that was all I had that night plus a few pizza bites ;)

On Valentine's Day, I went out for dinner with 15 other 2nd year students. Thereafter, we sang our hearts out in videoke, with more people joining the party ... yeah! I so love singing! Haha .. truly fun!

The week went on as last Saturday, we had our Victory party (at last!). As usual, videoke na sad! Of course, we ate with gusto. Some danced, drank, sang and others simply talked or listent. Lingaw jud ba!

I will only live once. That's why I enjoy life to the fullest. I am happy that I am in the company of great people.

Events and all those gimiks may have passed by so fast. Things may have been a blur. But those moments will truly last a lifetime ... drama oi!

For sure, I continue to cherish it ... even with the onslaught of exams, make-up classes and recitations we have to conquer in the coming weeks.

Belated Birthday

It's been two weeks since I turned 26. And it has been 2 weeks and 4 days since my last post.

It's not that I got lazy. I think I just got a lot of things to do lately.

When I turned 26 two weeks ago, it was quite simple ... no fireworks! But I was happy and at peace .. hehe :)

The day was quite simple. Like any other birthday celebrator, I was up until two - multi-tasking between studying and answering text messages. Until lunch break, I was busy with my phone and studying at the same time. I was busy forwarding messages that we had no classes in Soc Leg (a happy birthday indeed) and saying thanks to all those who sent their birthday greetings. I was happy because a lot of people remembered my birthday - family, high school friends, college friends, former officemates and friends in law school. And it was from different parts of the world - Davao, Surigao, Zamboanga, Manila, San Diego, LA, Arizona. I got a long distance call, an e-mail, a friendster message, text messages and personal greetings. I felt I was a celebrity ... hehe!

But aside from that, things were pretty normal. This means I was off to school at 3. We practiced for our Legal Pictionary, discussed stuff for the Conflict of Laws, conducted classes in Civ Pro. I had dinner with my seatmates before helping out with the props for Intrams. It was quite a nice day!

More than anything else, I am grateful that I am 26 because it means I have been blessed by God for 26 wonderful years. I need not enumerate those stuff that I am thankful for ... hindi talaga ako matatapos!

Just an interesting trivia whenever my birthday comes up - someone always end up asking for confirmation if my birthday on the 30th or 31st. Sometimes, someone even greets me on the 30th. 2 people just did greet me on the 30th ... lingaw!

On another note, although being 26 is not necessarily a milestone, I love saying I am 26 because a number of people say that I look younger (actually, gapalibre lang sila ... hehe). Basically, wala daw koy buot ... haha! Yes, I sometimes go to school wearing a backpack with Mickey Mouse on it. Yes, I wear pink rubber shoes. Yes, I can make the corniest hirits. Yes, I am 26.

Last Friday, on the way to school on a cab (cab daw oh!), the taxi driver asked me when would be our JS Prom. I was laughing and told him I am a law student, 26 years old. He was apologetic (hehe) and he said that I look like a third year high school student. Haha! To think, that he didn't see my backpack yet. I was in a polo shirt and khaki pants ha. I replied that I had my JS Prom 10 years ago.

To top it off, my sisters and I were eating squid balls last Sunday when this somewhat middle-aged lady, (between 50 to 60) looking after her apo, asked if we are sisters. We said yes. She pointed to my youngest sister as the youngest one. Right on! Then she asked me what year in school am I in? I answered, without any hesitation, 2nd year law student. She was shocked .. hehe! She thought I was still in high school. Take note, high school ha ... hindi college. And then she added that my sisters look like elementary students.

I do not know what is in the air why I look like a high school student even though I just turned 26. Maybe I am at peace ... Yes, I do think I am at peace. I am ok. Life is good. I just keep my faith in the Lord.

But now that our exams are piling up, I would not be surprised if in a week's time, I would look like older than 26 ... hehe ;)

Sounds Good ....

Life has been pretty ok these past few days. Here are some good news which I would like to share:

I passed all my Second Year - First Sem Subjects! I am so thankful !!!

-oOo-

Our next exam would be on February 9. No exam next week ... woohoo! We had our exam in Civ Pro last night (but it was quite difficult :( ) .

-oOo-

Conflict of Laws next week. I am quite excited because it is 3 days of sportsmanship and competitiveness and no classess ... go, 2nd year!

-oOo-

For the first time since high school, I would be playing a sport in an intramurals. Wish me luck in badminton! (I need it ... the girls on the other levels are quite good!)

-oOo-

My birthday is coming up ... I'll be 26 soon! I don't know why I'm like this ... I know I will be turning 26 but it seems I'm a 6-year old excited for her upcoming 7th birthday

-oOo-

Just be happy!

At last again

At last, I found time to blog after 38 days.

Congratulations to me for my 1st blog for year 2007.

Just in case you are wondering what I have been up to and what has been on my mind, here are some random thoughts .....

I was hospitalized from Dec. 19 to 24 for dengue. Yes, my early Christmas break was spent at the hospital. Actually, our last class for the year was on Dec 14. I got the fever on the 16th. Before I was hospitalized, there were times I cried because of headache and body ache. I really hate the feeling of doing nothing. It was just watching TV and sleeping and not much of eating. I even got bored watching TV

-oOo-

I wasn't able to buy anything for anyone this Christmas. It sucks since I did receive some stuff. But I really didn't have the time and the energy to buy gifts.

-oOo-

Good thing I had time to spend with my friends! I got to see Bajo after more than a number of years years. Since my brother was in the hospital from Dec. 27 to 29, we just stayed in the hospital and talk about stuff. Weird but nice!

-oOo-

I also got to be with Elaine, Maan, Farinah and Paula. We met at a hospital (again!) since Chikoy, Paula's baby was hospitalized for fever. Afterwhich, we, except for Paula, went out for dinner. We, minus Farinah, watched Mano Po 5. I am thankful for Maan and Elaine for understanding my choice not to watch Kasal, Kasali, Kasalo. Such loyal friends!

-oOo-

Because of my dengue bout, I miss a couple of get-togethers. I wasn't also able to meet up with great friends due to some other constraint. Sayang!

-oOo-

I passed my Property Subject, thank God! My first exam was 64. The second one was 77. So the third exam was a make or break deal. I got 83. My grade - 75! Yehey!

-oOo-

I got 85 in Public Corporation, 86 in Criminal Procedure, 89 in Elections and 93 in Land Titles. So far, so good. But I still have 2 subjects to worry about :(

-oOo-

My first exam in Civil Procedure is 89. Yehey! Although, I have to admit, I feel weird since I had a number of grammatical errors. As in is/are errors! Perhaps I don't notice because of my long sentences. I have to improve on that one.

-oOo-

I don't make New Year Resolutions!

-oOo-

I bought a P300 Globe card with 35 text last December 26. And I had to load again yesterday. I think I am in demand nowadays ... hehehe ... and I didn't even notice it before I checked the balance on my load.

-oOo-

Conflict of Laws, our intrams, is coming soon. Practices, practices, practices! Oops, I did not joing Cheerdance and Dance Showcase .. hehehe ...

-oOo-

But most importantly, I am turning 26 soon. I may not be able to literally use the excuse quarter-life crisis. But figuratively, I still can :)

Cry

Before I left for Manila to work, I felt that I was the type of person who cries rarely.

From then on, I think I became more sensitive. It was more easy for me to cry. Maybe it was the distance. Maybe all the emotions I kept all those years came out. I don't know why.

I cried when our pet Tootsie died recently. I cried when I explained to my mom when the father of my classmate/friend died. I cried when I told stories to my housemates when I was in Manila. I cried when I was asked if we could do our job. I cried when I felt I made so many errors. I cried when we left our sister in the US. I cried when she left to study for the US. I cried when my mom left for Davao and I would be working in Manila. I cried when the RP Basketball team lost against South Korea in the 2003 Asian Games. I cried when my friend broke up with her boyfriend. I cried when the older kids in Goin' Bulilit left the show. I cried when a cab driver told me about his faith.

But I haven't cried over Ryan-Juday. I don't think I will :)

Yes, I do cry. It may be for different reasons. I am just human. I may not be ultra-sensitive nor soft-hearted. But I cry. I just seldom show it.

Tootsie

She could have been Britney. My sister just beat me into naming her.

Tootsie was born last September 17, 2000.

Our dear and first-ever pet Tootsie died last December 7, 2006. She died of pyometra, something to do with her matres (english ba to?). We decided not to operate her because aside from being expensive (approximately P3,000), we felt she would be too old to undergo such operation. So, we let her go.

Before I left for school that day, I told her to wait for me to get home. When I got home, she was still alive, struggling so to speak. She had difficulty in breathing as the enlargement of her matres affected her heart. I was crying when I saw her. I said to her that it's OK, she can go now. (I can't believe I am still teary-eyed).

I'm pretty sure every one will agree with me that it hurts when someone we care for has to go, even it is just a pet. Before Tootsie, I was quite hesitant to have a pet in the house because I was pretty sure that it would be a great responsibility, even if I have 4 more siblings. I felt that eventually, we would let our helper take care of our pets (good thing that our helper loves dogs ... but we still do our share). But Tootsie was indeed a right decision.

Here are 5 reasons why I love Tootsie:

1. Her somewhat-curly hair

2. Potty-trained ... unlike our other dogs, Tootsie is the only one who underwent potty training ... she doesn't pee nor poo inside our house.

3. Being behaved when we bathe her.

4. The feeling I get when I caress her.

5. Her excited bark whenever someone from the household is around the corner.

I miss Tootsie!

I do not dream big when it comes to houses. A lake house would do .. if I were to live in another part of this world that is.

It would be nice to have a lake house with a mail box, a magical mail box that is. A magical mail box that be my connection to someone in the past or the future, any will do. A magical mail box that will be my connection to Keanu Reeves whom I will eventually meet ... aah, dream land!

After a long time, I got to watch The Lake House ... and I so love it! I was really planning to watch it on the big screen but law school schedule would not permit me to do so. And so, thank God it's Saturday, I got to watch it on DVD, pirated that is.

At first, I decided to watch The Break-Up since I thought it would require less concentration and I could do something while watching it. But what the heck! It's about time to watch The Lake House. And so I gave it my full concentration. Truly, no regrets!

It is a given fact that I am not a romantic person. But I did get teary-eyed in two scenes. One scene was when Alex was looking at a picture of his dad and him in front of the lake house. The other scene was when Kate asked where he could contact Alex when he saw the portrait of the lake house. I already had a feeling where the plot would lead me when Kate rushed to that guy in an accident. Add to that when Kate related such incident to Alex thinking that that guy who died probably had someone waiting for him or no one at all. I already envisioned myself with tears rolling having that feeling that Alex is already dead or is going to die ... but there were no tears :)

I love the film! Aside from the Keanu-Sandra tandem (of which I am a big fan since Speed), the plot was quite nice. I felt truly great after watching it. Sandra is one of my favorite celebrities. And Keanu makes my heart leap ... no kidding!

No Such Thing

There are a number of No Such Thing in Law School.

One of these is T.G.I.F. Yup, there is no such thing as T.G.I.F. in Law School. For most of the time that is.

Thank God It's Friday is a statement rarely heard from law students, from our school that is. Our lifestyle is not the same as that ordinary student who does not have a class on Saturdays. Our schedule is not the same as that regular employee who goes out on a Friday gimik after a week of hard work, which I did when I was still working ... I do miss that kind of lifestyle at times.

Dread may not be right term, for me that is. I do not dread Saturdays. It's just that we have our exams on Saturdays. So, we are all up Friday night up until early Saturday. I usually sleep up until 2 am and wake up depending on our scheduled exam. We had our Sales exam at 1 pm this afternoon. I slept from 3 am to 10 pm (I overslept ... hehe).

We still have one more exam for our first sem subjects. Afterwhich, it's full blast for our second sem subjects. Right how, we are still juggling all these stuff.

Though we may not have T.G.I.F., I still thank God for Saturdays!

Is it Christmas?

It is a well-known fact that Christmas is early here in the Philippines.

By this time, Christmas songs are heard on the radio and Christmas decors are all around the malls.

And when I got to school today, they already had their Christmas decorations on display. We have not yet put on the Christmas decors in our house. But, yes, there are already those kids singing those Christmas carols!

Sure, the Christmas season is here. Although, admittedly, I could not still truly feel it.

Don't get me wrong. I'm a Christmas person. I always look forward to this season. But it may take more time for me to warm-up to this season. (Warm up? Ang init-init na nga dito eh .. hehe)

Anyhow, I am still looking forward to the season to be jolly ... ho ho ho!

Well, it may be a stretch to call it divine intervention. But it is quite close to it.

We were supposed to have our 2nd exam in Criminal Procedure right this minute. But since no classroom is available for us to use since the undergrads are using it, we are instead going to have it tomorrow morning at 8:00 a.m.

You see, I am not yet finished with studying for the exam. Our coverage includes Rules 112-117. As of today, I have not yet finished reading Rule 117.

The thing is I was ok with it having the exam today. I felt that whatever happens, happens. Although I wanted to really finish reading all those stuff, I felt that I could answer some questions. And in case I fail (simbako!), I am ok with it as fell.

And so it happened that exam was postponed.

Maybe my instincts are not right. Maybe I am not yet ready.

There are things that you don't pray for. But when it happens to you, you know that it is the right one for you. You could really call it divine intervention. Thanks, Lord !

Now, I have to go back and finish studying for tomorrow's exam.

Not Quite Sick

I have a feeling that I am going to be sick.

My throat hurts a bit and I am having a bit of a cold.

I started studying for our exam this Thursday. But I stop every now and then. I have not yet gained momentum.

Second Semester has officially started. What a way to start this semester :)

Under Renovation

For those who have been checking out my blogsite over the past weeks, it's quite obvious that this blogsite is under renovation.

I am superthankful to my dear celebrity friend (celebrity since she already became a guest host of Gameplan) Maan for the previous look and feel of my blog. That blog showed the child in me.

Nothing was wrong with my previous blog. I just felt that change may be good. And besides, I want to explore what I could do with this blog, without pestering my friends ... hehe. I know, that there is not much change .. just the template. I will take it one at a time and let's see how it goes.

Nevertheless, I'll try to continue to blog even with all the necessary readings in law school. Just bear with me if you notice some changes with this blog.

The truth and nothing but ...

No one can blame me if I take most of what I read of it as a fact, that there must be some truth to it.

But the thing is I don't take everything I read as a fact.

There are things that require more explanations. There are hidden agendas. There are miscommunications. There are misinterpretations. There are misunderstandings.

In the end, what the really matters is what I believe is the truth. Of course, I cannot vouch that what I really believe in is the ultimate truth and every human being in this planet should believe me. But I can honestly say that what I believe in is based on the facts and evidences presented before me. Some may be physical evidences which could just be corroborative or circumstantial. Sometimes it is just based on gut feel and intuition.

I pray that people may be more open minded. I do not blame other people if they are cautious. Self-preservation is human. But then, I do believe that good faith must always be presumed. Yes, I know it is hard. But it can be done. If one cannot presume good faith, make sure that there is substantial evidence to prove otherwise and that due process is observed.

This world is becoming a sad one. Even if one's intention is pure and honest, the name and reputation one has so preciously built could be shattered by some statements.

I pray that people will know that the truth and nothing but ...

I pray for this world.

Okay

It's been quite some time since my last post. But, what the heck, I'm not the only one .. hehe :)

It's not that there's not much excitement in my life right now that I don't have anything to right. Actually, I'm busy .. busy with law school ... hehe :)

No, I'm not complaining since I have envisioned that life in law school would be quite busy. I am even surprised that I don't find myself complaining ayaw ko na. That must be a good sign .. I hope :)

A former law school classmate of mine called up a week ago and wondered if we, her former classmates, still go out .. as in kain sa labas, badminton or nood ng sine. I told her not much. I have watched only 4 movies this semester ... Superman Returns, Click, The Devil Wears Prada and just recently, The Departed (which I am recommending .. it will not bore you). And we played badminton twice. I know it would be nice to do something different once in a while. But the thing is, I do not crave for it. I am okay for now.

I am okay despite getting a 64 in my first exam in Property. Of course, I was sad. And it did depress me. But I know I should not go on with such feeling because it would truly affect my next exams, sunod-sunod na baya. Basta, I used it as my additional motivating factor na lang. I hope I did well in my 2nd exam and that I will do well in the third exam in Property. Just enough to pull up my grade. I hope I'll do well in all of my subjects :)

Oh, well .. that' s it for now :)

They're Back ...

Survivor and Amazing Race are back!

I got to watch around half of the 1st episode of latest Season of Survivor and Amazing Race.

Sure, the teams in Survivor are quite controversial since it is based on race. I do not have anything against it though. It's just another way of classifying people. They have classified it before based on gender and age. I see nothing wrong classiying the teams based on race (this is my opinion). I don't think that if the ultimate survivor is a man, then men are superior to women. Nor do I think that if the ultimate survivor is somewhat younger it means that the youth are more empowered. Hence, if a Caucasian becomes the ultimate survivor this season, I don't necessarily think that Caucasians are more superior than African-Americans, Latin-Amerians and Asian-Americans.

I caught the last hour of the 1st episode of Amazing Race last night. The teams are more diverse than before. Bilib ako dun sa one-legged woman. Astig! Another thing that I was excited about last night's episode was that the first leg of the race was in China. Beijing pa talaga! I was ecstatic because I have been there, been that! Basta maka-excite iyong mapanood mo sa TV iyong napuntahan mo na ... hehe :)

Anyhow, I still do hope I will find time for these shows and some. You know naman law school, it's so hectic! Law School is an amazing race that I have to survive :)

Something New

It's red and it flips.

Yes, after 5 years and 8 months, I changed my mobile phone.

Yes, I have upgraded ... hehe! I am pretty sure a number of persons are happy for me since I was always talked about with my ever reliable Nokia 3210 phone.

How I love that phone .. no kidding! The 5 reasons why I love my Nokia 3210:
1. It has a memory game, which I play every night before I go to sleep.
2. Easy navigation.
3. Simple. Walang che-che bureche!
4. The never ending hirits I receive and give as to using a vintage phone.
5. The joy of less worry. In other words, the less likely possibility of having it stolen .. who would?

As to my new phone, it was given to me by my Mama Sang. No kidding, we call my aunt by that name. She is currently working overseas. She decided to change phones when she was here for a vacation and decided to give her 1-year old Nokia phone with me. I do not know the specific model. All I can say that it is Nokia, it is red, it is flip-type. No, it doesn't have camera, infrared, radio and all those extra stuff.

However, I am still thankful for this phone. My top 5 reasons for being grateful with my new-2nd hand Nokia phone:
1. Memory. I do not have to delete names in my address book.
2. Sent items saved. It gives me a better idea and evidence that I really sent something.
3. It's stylish, considering that it is in my favorite color.
4. Colored screen.
5. Sentimental Value. Of course, it is from my Mama Sang.

Kisay

At long last, I found some time to update my blog. It has really been quite some time and I know that I have so much to tell.

For now, let me tell you about Kisay. Ah, Kisay!

Kisay is my cousin who will turn 3 years old tomorrow.

She stayed with us during the summer last year and we so missed her when she left for Baguio, her hometown. Due to unforeseen circumstances, she is now staying with up until November.

Grabe talaga ang epekto pag may bata sa bahay! I mean, I am living a great life pero lingaw pag may bata talaga!

Sure, she eats up some of my study time unlike before. But she surely is a stress-reliever!

Here are my Top 5 favorite Kisay moments:
1. Kisay saying "joke joke lang". Obviously, she got it from my sister Johanna. Ang bilis maka-pick-up ng bata na ito.
2. Kisay singing Pinoy Ako, Breaking Free and Bituin Walang Ningning. Of course, hindi iyong complete. The important thing is makasunod siya.
3. Kisay combs my hair and fixes it as well. Sabi niya, tirintas niya daw buhok ko. Tagalog jud! Bisaya pa, salapid!
4. Kisay saying "hindi kita bati". Tagalog jud!
5. Taking pictures with her in our gaya-gaya pose :)

Not the Usual

I usually check my e-mails twice a week.

The last time I checked my e-mail was a week ago.

Over the week, I thought of how many IMPORTANT mails I must have missed.

The thing is I really didn't get an urgent e-mail this week. You know, the kind that I really have to send an immediate reply.

It's not that I am complaining. It's just that I am not yet used to not checking my mail.

Don't get me wrong. I am the type of person who can leave my cellphone at home and need not worry about it. But there are just some habits that are hard to break.

Nevertheless, I am quite grateful that I got some time today to check on my e-mail and Friendster account as well. It was relaxing to read forwarded messages and some Friendster updates ... requests, messages and testimonials :)

Right now, I am thankful that I have some time to take a break.

I have to eat my dinner though. Philippine Idol is coming up at 8:00 p.m.

Pressured!

Things are easier done if you really want to do it.

Not because you are tasked to do it.

Not because you are in a position to do it.

Not because you know you will be rewarded in the end.

Not because you are obligated to do it.

Not because you will be adored if you do it.

Feeling is better when you do something right.

When you know that you are not pressured to do it.

When you know that you really want to do it.

When you know that this is it!

I hope and pray that doing things would always be like that :)

Google it

Google has been officially been included in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary.

And I found out that one can actually google ToyNk and my blog would surely appear.

When I found this fact last Saturday, I was truly surprised. Surprised in a sense that I didn't had any idea that someone could actually read my blog and I do not have any idea who that person is. And that such person could relate to what I was actually blogging about. Yeah, I know, that's the whole idea of this blog thing. But I just didn't expect it.

I just liked the idea of sharing my experiences and sentiments that's why I decided to maintain a blog. My long-time friend Ien made the most valid reason - to update our circle of friends. Although, it's less personal compared to an e-mail since you really address such e-mail to that person, it's easier in the sense that you don't have to write the same things to your friends. Afterwhich, I could then send an e-mail separate from those that I blog.

Anyhow, the google thing was quite surprising. I wasn't really afraid that something was revealed because there's really nothing to be afraid of in the things that I write. It just surprised me! (How many times have I mentioned the word suprise? )

Well, google or no google, this is my blog .. I say what is in my heart and mind, open for the world wide web to know :)

Bluff

Bluff.

In desperate times, we do this during recitations.

As much we could, we try to answer a question rather than just saying pass.

Instead of passing, we bluff hoping that we could be right somehow.

I haven't passed in a recitation just yet (and I do hope that I will always be able to answer during rectiations)

I bluffed in our Elections tonight.

For the first time, I was called for recitation on a case I wasn't able to read. It's not that I intentionally wasn't able to read. Hindi na talaga kaya ng powers ko. I have already read the cases before the topic I was called for. But our teacher skipped. And I was called.

My saving grace was the digested case I had on hand, and with a little ingenuity (in other words, kunwari alam ko). There were some questions that I wasn't able to answer right away. But eventually got wind of it through leading questions.

One good thing I did was I prayed. When I had that strong sensation that I was called, I really went into deep prayer - closing my eyes and clasping my hands - while one of my classmates was reciting.

I think prayer did it. I was somehow able to answer as if I read the case.

I am one blessed girl but it took some time to get the shock off.

Thoughts

I have a wild and wide imagination.

Sometimes I forget what is real and unreal.

I have dreams.

Sometimes I am not sure if I could attain them.

I have expectations.

Sometimes I expect too much.

But I do hope for the best.

Then, something comes up before I even made the first step.

No time to expect.

No time to hope.

A burst in the bubble.

A door shut closed.

With no window nor roof opened.

Just waiting for someone to unlock that one and only door.

Heartbreaker

Someone just broke my heart.

Actually, it isn't just one person. It's the whole Red Bull team.

Red Bull broke my heart. They won over my San Miguel Beer team.

I have long been an SMB fan, ever since 6th Grade. I was duly influenced by three persons - my Dad, Elaine and Maan. And I am ever grateful to them.

After I graduated in college, I saw less PBA action. But I do try to keep up by reading the papers, which I do everyday. I was happy when a number of SMB players got to play in the last Asian Games where they placed fourth. Now, that was a heartbreaker. I kept crying on and on when they lost that game against South Korea to be assured of a silver. My housemates even tried to prevent me from watching the game for bronze as they were concerned that I was going to cry again.

But I did not cry again, although my heart was broken. I kept praying that SMB will win so they could enter the finals against Purefoods. Red Bull was leading all the way until SMB kept fighting back up until the last minutes. But Valenzuela made that shot. The ball was clearly off his hands with 0.1 of a second left.

Heart-breaking indeed!

Oh well, I am not the only one. Fans of Argentina were truly heart-broken when Germany won in their match in the World Cup. Larios afficionados were also heart-broken when Pacquiao won today.

At least I am not alone. And I hope Purefoods will win.

* I was happy when I saw the SMB logo. It was SMB's logo back in 1993-1994. I used to copy this logo and really tried hard to copy the mug.

The Justice League

Justice who?

Well, I'm part of the Justice League. No, not the Justice League you see on television. (But, I could be ... who knows?) The Justice League is the newest batch of LA applicants, of which I am proud to be a part of.

Last Saturday, there were 11 of us who joined this tiring but fun race around Davao. It was a race prepared by LA official members.

I wasn't part of the first two stations at AdDU since I was supposedly kidnapped and should be rescued by my fellow teammates. My team mates were the last to arrive at Shrine where they were to rescue me. But I never lost hope. The next task was to crochet a one-meter yarn. I volunteered, feeling that I still know how to do it. I was shaking at first. But I was so happy that we gained some ground and got to 2nd place. Then, we went somewhere in SIR to catch a ferry to Magallanes. We were able to catch the first team. They rode a tricycle to the ferry but I suggested that we just walk or run since that's what is written in the clue. We asked some of the organizers and they said it was okay as we still have money.

After we got to the right ferry, we reached Magallanes and dashed to Rizal Park. I was thinking that they would make us perform. Good thing, they didn't! So it was just a chopstick relay of some sort. Then off we went to Frissan where one of us needs to play billiard to get the clue. We got the clue and then we were off to 4Play! There, my teammates did some wallclimb. Afterwhich, we went to MTS to do shaggedy-shaggedy, skip rope 200 times and eat 6 bananas. I ate two! Then, we went to the Statue of David, listened to some kids rap, pose and get the clue. We were the first to arrive at the finish line at Times Beach! Woohoo!

I am happy with the Cool Blue Team! There's Sharone, who did the wall climb so fast, just enough for me to take a leak ... hehe! There's Kiko, who has so much stamina in him that he was always the first one to reach the place where we ought to go. There's Carlo, who was our team leader who brought the water and was so strategic with the chopstick. And of course, that's me, of which I could proudly say that my greatest contribution was the crochet thing. We rock!

Anyway, the race was really fun kahit kapoy! My legs are still sore but it was worth everything. There were times talagang gihingal na ako pero padayon gihapon .. slowly but surely!

And of course there's the rest of the Justice League, most of which are first year law students. There were only three of us who are already in second year.

Honestly, I really did think a lot before joining LA. Kahit sa pagtulog, I was still weighing the pros and cons. In the end, I decided to try it out and see if it works. So far, so good. I got to meet new people. And I like that! Let's see what the future holds.

Joining the LA was a personal decision and nothing more. I could go on and on why I decided to join and why I had second thoughts joining LA. But then I am here.

Justice League was nicely suggested. And I guess we were happy with it. We were thinking of something related to Pacquiao because of his fight. But we were concerned just in case he loses (which he did not!). Feeling superheroes, we decided to go with Justice League. We're law students and it's all about justice! Coincidentally, may last blog was about being a superhero .. hehehe!

One more thing, I was elected to be the batch leader. I did not pray nor hope for this one. I am happy that they trusted me. I hope I could deliver. Justice League could be Jazzie's League ... hehe ... But I wouldn't insist on that because we are all equal (char lang!)

I pray that Justice League would live up to its name. We will deliver!