My 2013 - Part I

Yes, this is indeed a late post.  But better late than never.

In fact, this is my first post for 2014.  Where was I for the first two months of the year? Ah, that would deserve another blog.

For now, here's a look back at how blessed I was last 2013.

JANUARY

I could say my 2013 started with a blast since I traveled to Cebu with one of my everdearest and longest friend, Elaine.  As she is very familiar with Cebu, she prepared an itinerary so that we could make the best out of our 2-day stay there.  Food, places and friendship celebrated indeed ...

Just as we arrived back in our hometown, Davao City, I remained busy with the IBP National Convention.  I was more than a participant since I was part of the Programme Committee, which was in-charge for the opening ceremonies and the evening programme.  I was some kind of an FBI agent on-stage/near the stage, since I was in full suit mode, with radio on hand and ear-piece.

I also turned 32 .. ooh, ooh, ooh!

FEBRUARY

Our family, together with Tita Grace got to experience the Venue Party Boat.  I have to remind myself to bring Allan here.

MARCH/APRIL

March and April were awesome as our family was complete for JJ's graduation.  Johanna was home from Australia while Jennifer and her cutest daughter, Ally, were also in town, all the way from US of A.  It has been years since we were complete.  I think, the last time was in 2005.

Words and pictures are not enough to show how happy and grateful I am with our family.

APRIL/MAY

After my sisters left, I was nevertheless busy with the remaining summer as I had my "racket" ... I taught summer classes in Law School.  It was no easy task since I have to prepare for it everyday, in addition the work I do at the office.  It is not really easy to prepare for a 2-hour class everyday, in law school at that.  And it was my first time to teach Business Organization 1 in Law School.  But, hey, I survived!

It was also in April when I decided to take the New York State Bar Exam .. as I have posted in my status before, "This is it!".  As such, I began reading (seriously).  Although, it was hard since I was also preparing for my class during these months.

I also volunteered during the election period.

JUNE

This time, I was in full mode for my review for the New York State Bar Exam.  Yes, I took time off from the office, although I go there once or twice a week just to do some work on urgent cases.  I spent my time studying at home.

I also made arrangements for my undergrad teaching load.  I asked permission to take time off for one semester but I'll be back by November.  The only load I accepted was my law school class, in which I had advance and make-up classes for lost time when I will be away in July and August.

And that is just the first half of my 2013 :)

The Book of Questions: Question 3

Question 3:

If you were to die this evening with no opportunity to communicate with anyone, 

what would you most regret not having told someone?  Why haven't you told them yet?

Answer:

I would regret not saying "I love you" that much to my mom and dad, my siblings and to my boyfriend.  I tell them every know and them that I do love them.  I write it down in my journal so that they get to read it when I die.  I haven't told them that much because I don't know how much "I love you" I should tell them, knowing that my love for them is immeasurable.  

The Book of Questions: Question 2

Question 2:

Do you believe in ghosts or evil spirits?

Would you be willing to spend a night alone in a remote house that is supposedly haunted?

Answer:  Yes, I believe in ghosts or evil spirits.  They are somewhere out there.  And I also believe in the power of prayer.  But no, I can't really say that I have had close encounters.  Yes, I would be willing to spend a night alone in a remote house that is supposedly haunted.  

I remember I was in our high school and we spent the night in school to finish our year book as we have just graduated from high school.  We were staying at the Computer Room at the second floor.  Some of our teachers stayed at the faculty room on the ground floor.  We were still working at around midnight and we had some questions for one of our teachers staying at the faculty room.  It was not urgent but I volunteered to go downstairs.  I have heard a number of "stories" in the stair way but I went nonetheless.  And nothing happened.    

   

The Book of Questions: Question 1

I just bought this Book of Questions last week.  It was on sale and I think it would make an interesting for my blog.  It can be like my emergency blog topic when I want to write but I am not sure what to write.  So here goes Question 1:

For a person you loved deeply, 

would you be willing to move to a distant country 

knowing there would be little chance of seeing your friends or family again?

Ooh, first question is quite challenging and I would take it as it is.  And this means that what I have to consider is that the limitation/hindrance/obstacle is that "little chance" of seeing your friends or family again.  I have to answer that question in this premise because in this world that we live in, it is always a possibility to travel through the various modes of transportation.  And of course with technology, we can still "see" our friends and family even with the physical distance.'

But to answer this question point blank, my answer would be NO. (Whoa! Big letters jud? Hehe)  That "little chance" of seeing my friends or family again would make me feel desolate and lonely and sad even if I am with someone whom I love deeply.  There would be that sense of incompleteness.  I have been used to keeping in touch with my family and friends every so often that to keep me away and distant from them would really make me an unhappy person.  It would be unfair, not only to me, my family or friends, but also to my loved one who would surely feel sad if he knows that I am not doing okay despite being with him.

For me, it is not about being selfish and thinking only about my happiness.  It is more of because I am really that kind of person who is constantly in touch with the people who have touched my life.

Thank you very much. :)  

Get Lucky

In order to be admitted to the New York State Bar, one has to pass the New York State Bar Exams as well as the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE).

I took the MPRE last August in San Diego.  I was lucky that Atty. Noreen informed me that I could take it outside of New York as long as I indicate in my application that I am taking the MPRE for the New York jurisdiction.

And so, I decided to stay at my aunt's place in San Diego.  I was advised that I could study for the MPRE after the New York State Bar Exam.  And so I did.

I said to myself that I was going to study for a week for the exam and I had two review books on hand already.  Sunday before the exam, I already started listening to some lectures online.  And then, I would answer some sample questions as well.  By Tuesday, I realized that I could cover more topics if I read instead of listening to the online lectures.

Anyway, my aunt and uncle were very accommodating as there were nights that we went out for dinner.  So I had to make the most of my time in the morning and/or afternoon.  

On Thursday night, there were some changes as my sister was going to fetch me on Sunday, the day after my exam.  So my aunt decided to make the most of my Friday.

We went to the outlet stores on Friday morning as my aunt had to buy some stuff that I could bring to my uncles.  I was also able to buy some pasalubongs as well since I felt I could not buy them when I leave San Diego.  I then studied in the afternoon.

I told my aunt beforehand that we would not stay late that night since I had exams the next day.  For dinner, they treated me to a Korean buffet .. whoa!  

My cousins at an "eat-all-you-can" Korean restaurant

I thought we were going home but then we stopped by Extraordinary Desserts .. wow!  I had Strawberry Parfait and it was delicious!!! (No wonder I gained weight!)

Sarap jud ito ba!

My cousin ordered this Truffle Framboise - Masarap din!

I thought we were going home after that but guess again.  We made a quick stop at USS Midway.  We did not go inside anymore since it was already closed.  My aunt wanted me to stop by here because aside from a tourist attraction, it was where Jessica Sanchez had her audition and homecoming for the American Idol.

With my cousin

And so, we went home.  I was so quite nervous for my exam the next day - wondering if some stuff I have studied have been deleted because I felt so full with the food I ate.  I haven't done something like this on the night before an exam.  Adding to my anxiety was the fact that I was not able to finish all the review materials I had on hand.

This is all I could bring for the MPRE Exam (in a Ziploc bag)

My uncle and I left at around 7:30 and I was at the Test Center (a school) before 8:30.  The exam started at 9:00 a.m. and I was done at 10:45 a.m.

My uncle was supposed to fetch me at 11:00 after mountain biking.  I had no cellphone or watch with me since it was not allowed during the exam.  I just waited after all the other examinees left.  It turned out that one of the guys my uncle was biking with had a flat tire and in mountain biking, no man is left behind.  I was not nervous that I was not going to be picked up (again, I had no phone or money).  I knew I just had to wait.

In the afternoon, we went to Legoland with my cousins.

The exam had 60 multiple questions, only 50 of which were graded (but you won't know what).  I know I did my best.  I have read that some people overstudied for it but others pointed out not to take it for granted. 

Results were out just this week.  I knew it was going to be released this week, 5 weeks after the exam.  I wasn't sure what date though but any day during the week.  I was trying to search for #mpre over twitter and voila!  I saw some tweets saying they're so happy they passed!  My heart was really beating so fast.  I logged in my account and saw my score:

Before you get excited, that's not a perfect score!  The highest is 150 (scaled scoring) and the lowest was 50.  The score required for the New York jurisdiction (it varies in every state) was 85.  So, yes .. I passed it!!!!

Thank you Lord!

Thank you for my aunt, my uncle and their whole family for accommodating me.  I thank them for their support and their faith in me that I could make it (that's why they made the most of my stay in San Diego, even during the night before my exam!)

Thank you to my ever supportive mommy .. as in! Wala na akong masabi!

I am indeed lucky with my family and relatives and passing this exam.  I could not have done it without God's grace.

I hope my luck will continue with the results this November.  

Sightings

If you know me really well, then you do know that I'm a big celebrity fan as I have personally handwritten a number of fan letters to celebrities across the globe.  And I have been lucky to get a number of replies as well.

I said to myself before that if I see my favorite local celebrities, I surely would get a picture with them.  If it's a Hollywood celebrity, an autograph would suffice. 

But I have to tell you that I'm immensely shy when they're right there in front of me.  Yes, I need back-up in times like that.

Anyhow, I had a number of celebrity encounters in my latest trip.  I guess I could say that among all my trips, I had quite a haul this time.

As I was lining up for immigration, I saw Venus Raj.  I realized later that we were taking the same flight and that she was just seated a few seats from me - I could see her as she reclined her chair, just 2 seats away from me.  Anyway, all I can say is that she is really tall and slim.  And as far as I can see, she does not seem that "maarte".

On the day I left Albany, 98 Degrees, New Kids on the Block and Boyz 2 Men were going to have their concert in the same venue where I took my exam.  Unfortunately, I did not see any of them.  I then had my hopes high as my mom and I made a side trip to New York City.  

And I sure had a close encounter with no other than Zachary Levi of the Chuck TV Series.  I watch it every now and then, and I really like him.  Anyhow, he was having his Broadway Show, First Date, right beside the hotel where we were staying.  On our last night, as we were going back to the hotel, there he was, having his picture taken with those who watched the show.  I immediately gave to my mom the camera so she could take the picture.  

I tried my luck and asked him if I could have a picture with him.  Oh, yes! I was truly nervous!  He asked if I watched the show and I answered "no" (honest ako!).  And he said it would be unfair to those who watched the show if I would have a picture with him. I said that I'm a big fan from the Philippines and he replied that I should watch the show tomorrow.  (Yes, we were really having a conversation!) I told him that we were already leaving the next day (which is true) and he said that I should be back to watch the show and said he was sorry.  Believe me - he seemed so genuinely apologetic and so kind.  I get his point.  Sayang lang jud!  

My hands were really cold and clammy and my heart was really beating fast that time.  I was one of the 2 or 3 people left.  And he said his goodbyes and left.  I explained it to my mom what just happened and asked her if she was able to take a picture nevertheless.  Apparently, she could not figure out how to make the camera work as it suddenly turned off.  This is the only picture I have ...

Yes, that's Zachary Levi in white shirt and that is me with that big arm and pink shirt.  Oh, well!  At least, I have this one.  And yes, Zachary Levi is tall and handsome and not geeky as I expected him to be (the Chuck effect).

We then flew to LA and then to San Diego.  Together with my Aunt's family, we went to Legoland, where there is also a water park.

While sitting and just waiting for my cousins to finish swimming, my aunt ran to me and said that Lou Diamond Phillips was just right there.  And yes, I saw him with shorts and no shirt on with his wife and daughter - yup, just like any ordinary family.  Some may have noticed him and he just seemed so normal there.

When I saw my uncle, who chaperoned his children by the kiddie pool, he told me that he was the one who noticed Lou Diamond Phillips.  Apparently, both of them were looking over their daughters at the swimming pool.  My cousin was even playing with Lou Diamond Phillip's daughter.  When my uncle noticed him, my uncle said "LDP" to him (they were just near each other), LDP acknowledged him and fist bumped with my uncle!

My uncle asked my aunt if she was able to take a picture of LDP.  My aunt said she forgot since she was totally nervous .. haha!

Anyway, I was back in LA and my sister brought me to The Grove where Extra TV is shot daily.  And yes, we saw Mario Lopez and Maria Menounos.  I was not able to take a picture with them because they were quite busy.  I think I did not see them taking picture with any of the fans that day.

Yes, that's Mario Lopez.  He looks good but I think he looks better on TV

 (Maybe because he had too much make-up at that time for tv purposes)

And that's Maria Menounos - she is indeed pretty and sexy (very slim!)

We then went to Santa Monica Place and my sister mentioned she saw Shannen Doherty there one time.

As I was just sitting in the Promenade, I then saw this Beverly Hills 90210 guy right in front me (yes, he was really close).  I told my sister "si Beverly Hills 90210" repeatedly.  I forgot his name!  Haha!  My sister then called her husband and told him about the Beverly Hills 90210 guy (yes, complete name ng show jud!).  My sister then searched the net for his name and we realized he was Ian Ziering!  He was a bit old but still recognizable (to me at least!).  My brother-in-law mentioned that it was a good thing I noticed him because he looks old (But of course, the show was so long ago!)  He then asked if we want to have a picture with Ian Ziering.  My sister and I said it was not necessary.  My sister even said it's okay if we don't get to have a picture with him because he does not have a movie.  My brother-in-law then searched the net through his phone and mentioned that he was in Sharknado.  I said I'll let it pass since he was with family.  He had his little daughter with him, as well as his wife and some relatives.  I did not bother to take a picture of him from afar.  My brother-in-law did but I forgot to ask him to send it to me as well.

Yes, I guess I could say "naka-quota" ako.  Before this trip, the only close encounter I had with a Hollywood celebrity (outside of concerts) was the one with Geoffrey Rush when we saw him at Melboure Aquarium with his family.  He was in Australia at that time as he just promoted "Finding Nemo" sometime in 2003 or 2004.  But we did not have any picture with him.

Anyway, in my flight back to the Philippines, as I was talking my luggage from the overhead bin, Amanda Page was just right beside me.  I'm not sure if you still remember her.  But all I can say that she was really pretty and she did not seem that old.

That's it for now.  Hoping for more sightings in my next travel.

Universal Studious

I stumbled upon this article and I would just like to share it. 

My top  3 favorites, in particular order are: 
                       1.  Pray
                       2.  Sing to yourself
                       3.  Take a power nap

www.clipartof.com

15 ways to take a 15 Minute Break from Bar Exam studying

(from: http://ipassedmybarexam.com/2011/01/13/15-ways-to-take-a-15-minute-break-from-bar-exam-studying/)

The sole focus of many of you during this time period is bar exam preparation.  You may wake up in the morning at 8 or 9am and have the entire day, over 14 hours of time, to prepare for the bar!  That is a ridiculous amount of time and much more than you’ll ever need.  What will get you ready for the bar is not so much the time you have, but what you are doing with the time you use.  During your bar exam preparation, taking breaks will be just as important as studying.

Study breaks are VERY GOOD for you because 1) you have the time to do it, and 2) they willkeep your fresh, energized, and efficient.  Here are 15 ways you can take a 15 minute break to reenergize your body, mind, and spirit.

(1)     Walk/Jog in the park

Even taking a short, 15 minute walk may be the best thing you do all day.  Not only will taking a break clear up your mind, but walking allows you to keep the blood flowing.  Also, being in the park changes your surroundings, giving you new, fresh energy.  And being in nature will connect you with your natural environment.  Studies show nature walking can make you more successful than city walking.

(2)     Walk your dog

Taking your pet out for a nice walk or run will keep the blood flowing, give you fresh energy, change up the scene, and provide some companionship and connection. 

(3)     Read your favorite book

What?!  More reading?  Yes!  Dive into your favorite fantasy novel, war story, or brain book.  Surprisingly, I didn’t feel tired or drained when I did additional, outside reading.  Rather, it was a great way for me to disconnect from the bar, keep my mind in the ‘reading’ zone, and learn something new.  Curling up with your favorite book for 15 minutes to end each night is a great de-stresser.

(4)     Play video games

Without a doubt, this was one of my most utilized and best study breaks!  It was easy, games were short, and I didn’t even have to get up from the library or wherever I was studying.  It’s also very fun, makes you happy, and allows for a complete disconnect – all the things you need to do on a break before you hit the studying again!  In case you’re wondering, my game of choice was Command & Conquer: Zero Hour for PC.

(5)     Youtube

Enter ‘funny videos’ on youtube and you’ll be off to a great, entertaining, and fun break from your studies.  Keeping yourself laughing and smiling is one of the best things you can do.

(6)     Push-Ups

Need a quick de-stress? Drop down and give yourself 20 push-ups.  If you feel embarrased, do it in the corner of the room or next to your desk so people don’t see you.  This is a great way to get the blood flowing in the brain again.

(7)     Meditate

Finding a nice quiet park bench, closing your eyes, and letting all your thoughts seep out into the ether is a very relaxing way to de-steam and collect yourself. 

(8)     Pray

Meditation if the art of listening.  Prayer is the art of asking.  Putting yourself in a peaceful mind and ask the divine creator for assistance in helping you pass the bar exam just might be the best 20 minutes you spend the entire two months.

(9)     Simple stretching

If you don’t have time to go to a yoga class, just walk outside and do some simple stretches.  Put your feet together and try to touch your toes, holding for at least 20 seconds.  Then go two shoulder widths apart, take your right arm and put it over your head, feeling the stretch on your side, and switch sides.  Stretch your arms out and move them in circular motion.  Do a slow hula hoop movement to stretch out your hips.  Do whatever other stretch you feel you need.  Stretching is a great way to keep your body and mind from getting too tight.

(10)    Call mom, dad, sibling, best friend

Need a positive, encouraging boost?  Don’t we all.  Make sure you take the time to get it.  Call up your most positive, supportive fans and have a conversation.  Just hearing their voice for 15 minutes can do wonders.  Hopefully, they’ll drop a few, encouraging remarks, “You can do this.  Hang in there.”  If not, ask them to give you these remarks.  Just hearing it will help, even if you told them to say it!

(11)    Take a power nap

Naps allow your mind to absorb and process all the information you have been putting into it.  A quick 15 to 30 minute power nap can help you get ready for another essay run.  Just don’t oversleep during the day.  If you go over 45 minutes, you’ll become drowsy, and it might take you a while to get back up and at it!

(12)    Eat a snack

If you’re hungry, why wait?  Grab a ‘snackers.’  Giving yourself a few minutes away from the book, while feeding your mind with a stimulating and healthy snack is a perfect way to take a break.

(13)    Brain games

These are a great, fun way to take a break and strengthen your mind.  Think your mind is already being tested enough?  These brain games can actually be a great compliment in strengthening your analytical thinking, significantly assisting you for the bar exam.  You can get brain game books for cheap at a bookstore or find them online.

(14)    Look at your visual/goal for passing the bar

Sometimes, when you need a break, it is simply your mind telling you to remember what you’re here to do.  Looking at a goal you wrote, a visual you created, or the reasons you want to pass the bar exam can be a beautiful way for helping you refocus again.

(15)    Sing to yourself

You know you sing to yourself when you’re alone in the shower or driving.  It’s ok, we all do it.  Sometimes you may just want to yell at the top of your lungs.  Instead, turn that rage into a nice, sweet melody.  Just sing it loudly so you feel like you’re still satisfying that rage feeling.

I hope you enjoyed these great ways to take a 15 minute break.  Make sure you take several breaks every day throughout your study period.

As always, good luck in passing your bar exam!

All Star

So much to do so much to see 

So what's wrong with taking the back streets 

You'll never know if you don't go 

You'll never shine if you don't glow

For the past few weeks, you can say I have been maximizing my brain capacity (although scientifically, I think it's not that possible yet).

Yes, I had and have so much to do, so much to read, so much to write .. basta so much!  It has gotten to the extent that I get so easily irritated lately.  I also worry a lot.  There are times I find myself teary eyed, almost crying or really crying.  

So this is what happens when I take so much.  It's not just my brain which has been greatly effected.  I find myself emotionally unstable as well.  Mentally and emotionally unstable - thank you Lord wala pa ko gidala sa mental hospital.

I think what has been keeping me sane, nevertheless, is that I try to do something different or appreciate what's at hand.  I rant when a scheduled meeting does not go on as planned due to some fortuitous event.  I know it's beyond my control.  But I can control my emotions.  So I just rant.  And then relax.  And here comes a friend asking for some lawyerly help.  We chat while I prepare a doc and she shares some good news.

There are days when I already had my day planned.  Then an errand, a sudden meeting, an unexpected call from a client.  Schedule disrupted.  I get pissed.  But I can't do much about it.  I just go on and on and do what I can.  And then, I go to the mall, eat by myself - some me time.  And now, I'm back to myself.

Yes, I really had and have still so much to do until the end of August (or who knows until when).  There are times that I just have to let it out.  I asked for this.  This is what I want and I know that I am not just lucky.  I am blessed to have all of these!  

I know I'll get through it.  With God's grace.

Fallen

I stopped counting when it hit 20.

For the past 3 years, more than 20 students failed in the classes I handled.  It was not easy at first.  And it is not easy until now. 

I know I'm not the strictest teachers one could have.  But I do have standards.

Nevertheless, it still disheartens when students fail - for whatever reason they may have.

I had a student who failed in my class.  I was her teacher in a different subject (where she passed) in the prior semester.  I'm not sure but I felt she was complacent this time around.  Looking at her grades, I always remind her to study harder.  I don't know what happened to her but she failed.  I submitted the grades before the deadline.  She decided to look at her grades later .. on her birthday.  Yes, she found out she failed my subject on her birthday.  I saw her a few days after and we talked.  And yes, she cried but I told her I couldn't do anything about it anymore.  Yes, I was sad.

I had another student who failed my subject.  I always reminded him during the semester to study since his grades are not quite there.  At the end of the semester, his efforts were not just enough.  He asked for reconsideration.  I told him his grade was already reconsidered.  He said that aside from my subject, he had only one subject before he could graduate.  I asked him to take the subject during the second semester so he could still graduate by March.  The subject I taught is not normally taught during the second semester.  But somehow, the subject was open by second semester.  My student passed his last two subjects in college and graduated.  At last!

Recently, I also had a student who failed.  I submitted the grades weeks before.  She said hi to me and I mentioned her grade.  It turned out that she did not yet get her grades and yes, I was the one who told her the bad news.  We talked a bit.  She cried .. and I felt sad.

I don't think I'll get used to it though.

IBP National Convention

I know .. this is another belated blog. Nevertheless, after our Cebu trip was the IBP National Convention held in Davao City. Upon arriving at the Davao Airport, we saw the welcome sign for delegates and I just had to have my picture taken .. hehe

Months before the convention, IBP - Davao City Chapter was already busy preparing for this big event. Yes, it was indeed a big event with approximately 2,500 delegates from all over the country. I was asked by one of the committee heads to be part of Program Committee and I had no reason to say no.

We had meeting every now and then before the big event. But I was pretty sure we will be really busy during the day itself. Our committee was assigned to take charge of the Opening Ceremonies and the Grand Ball - all in one day.

We were first informed to wear Filipiniana attires for the Opening Ceremonies. I found a Filipiniana blouse in Cebu, which was just around P400. However, before the day of the event, I was asked to be the "usherette" on stage and that I was asked not to wear the Filipiniana but rather put on blazer and pants/skirt. Good thing that my mom bought me an ensemble (on sale) at the beginning of the year. I just had to buy an inner blouse. The good thing is that my outfit had shades of purple, which is the IBP color. And yes, I wore pants and not skirt because it would be very uncomfortable for me running around the stage in skirt.

On the day itself, another change - I was asked to take charge of the walkie-talkie. Yes, I did the "over-over" thing. And it was my first time to do something like that. We had a few issues with the microphone. But over-all, I think our team did great.

During the opening ceremonies, we had the Ateneo law students as ushers and usherettes, and they did great as well. We had our pictures taken after the Opening Ceremonies but I couldn't get a copy. No one has tagged me on facebook, hehe.

Anyway, I had some pictures taken at the photobooth.

I was a bit relaxed during the early afternoon but when the program was to wind up in the afternoon I had to hurriedly go home, change and be at the venue for the Grand Ball. I wore the P400 black dress that I bought in Cebu. It was a good price indeed. As usual, I was walking around doing some errands and helping out in the raffle. Unfortunately, I did not win anything, hehe. There were a few comments regarding the venue and program itself, but I think it was generally ok.

For the next 2 days of the convention, I was a simple delegate. No more duties, hehe. It was also a time to bond with my law school friends, especially those who are not practicing in Davao. I enjoyed the remaining days at the SM Convention Center - Davao as well as in Davao Insular Hotel. To cap it off, I had a few law school friends in our house for a simple together.

Fun times indeed!

Cebu, B

I haven't been to Cebu for quite sometime. The last time I was there was in 2001. And my mom and I were just passing by Cebu since our destination was really Bohol. All I can remember was that we got to visit SM Cebu that time. Before that, I also got to visit Cebu and did the tourist thing sometime in 1990.

Anyway, with the air fare promo and discounts, I thought of going there with my long time friend. And so we did! Elaine was more familiar with Cebu as she goes there often and as such, she was my ever-reliable tourist guide. Yes, she really prepared an Itinerary for us, which was flexible but we were able to cover basically everything within a short span of time.

Upon arrival at the airport, we immediately asked the taxi driver to take us to Mactan Shrine and wait for us. It was pretty cool considering that this was one of the pit stops in the Amazing Race Philippines. So it was like Elaine and I were in a race, hehe.

We then checked-in at Cebu R Hotel, which was really nice, budget friendly and accessible. We just walked to STK where we had our lunch. While waiting for our food, we had a look around the restaurant-museum. I love STK's scallops.

We then proceeded to the Sto. Nino shrine where we saw throngs of people. And it was just a week before the Sinulog festival. Magellan's Cross was just nearby and then we went to the Island Souvenirs Shop. We then walked towards Fort San Pedro then we went back to our hotel. Thereafter, we went back to our hotel and then we had our dinner at Casa Verde. It sounds "sosyal" but the price is really ok and I really like their Death by Chocolate.

The next day we attended mass at the Sto. Nino Shrine. Kadaming tao! Again, this was not yet during the Sinulog festival. So you can just imagine! We then did our own walking tour in Colon. We passed by the Obelisk and then we stopped by the Yap-San Diego Ancestral House and then we walked to Casa Gorordo. We then proceeded to Museo Sugbo but unfortunately, it is closed on Sundays. We then went Ayala Mall but this time we took the taxicab .. hehe. We bought some pasalubongs and discovered they had 2 grocery stores in one mall. Anyway, I also bought some clothes supposedly for the IBP convention. But I never got to wear the Filipiniana blouse but I got to wear the dress. What's great was that I got to buy those stuff at a discount. It costs less than P500 each. It was also a nice coincidence that I saw my tita/mom's officemate in Cebu. Lingaw!

Anyway, we then had our lunch and went back to the hotel. We then proceeded to the Taoist Temple. We had dinner at Zugbuchon and hot chocolate at Coffee Dream.

The next day, we were off back to Davao.

It was indeed just a weekend trip but it was fun nevertheless. I am glad to get in touch again with Philippine culture and stuff myself with good food that are not available here in Davao. But more than anything else, I really enjoyed my time talking and bonding and laughing with a dear friend.

Until the next bonding trip!

Birthday Girl

I turned a year older.

I know that it has been weeks since I celebrated my birthday. But who says I can't post belated blogs, hehe.

My day was pretty simple as I wanted it to be. I was off for work at around the same time. Surprise, surprise .. my dear friend Elaine came for a short visit to greet me and deliver a cake. Woohoo! Allan treated me for lunch at the newly-opened Mesa at SM Lanang - as in they opened on the day of my birthday. So, yes .. the staff of Mesa sang a birthday song for me and I was given a free dessert .. woohoo!

I was back at the office and I did my usual stuff.

At around 5.30, I attended mass together with Allan. At about 7, I went to my class and they had a birthday surprise for me. Nice! I had my class for an hour, instead of two, because I left some of my notes (and not because it was my birthday .. defensive? .. hehe) Thereafter, I went home to my family.

It was pretty much a simple day, the way I really want it to be.

Thank you for all those greeted me a happy birthday. GOD bless everyone ;)

Pitch Perfect

For a trying-hard performer like me, it's a must see!

This movie isn't really Oscar-worthy. It doesn't claim to be

It doesn't have the memorable lines that you desperately wish you could utter to another human being. It doesn't have the interesting plot line, with all the twists and turns. It doesn't have the car chases and gun shots that you would want in action flick. It doesn't have the super duper kilig effect like all those romantic comedies. It doesn't really make you cry.

Pitch Perfect is out there for you to sit back, relax and enjoy - and sing through your heart's delight!

If it existed in my lifetime, I would have tried my luck with the Barden Bellas. Yes, I am a frustrated performer - the singer, dancer and actor all rolled into one. And I am not ashamed of it. I wonder why we don't have it here in this side of the world.

The mash-ups and riff-off were cool. The pop, rap, classic - nice talaga! Makasabay ako magkanta. Actually, I've been listening to its soundtrack a week after I watched the movie.

Anna Kendrick was really cool!

Basta nalingaw ko! Bow!

A Teacher

http://www.picturesof.net

I was just so happy when I heard the news from my students awhile ago that I just have to note it and blog it.

I am really happy that they remembered my lectures and I am really hoping that they'll do well in their board exams, not just in Business Law.

To hear words "ikaw jud ang maremember na mo ma'am" and "effective ka man gud magtudlo ma'am" surely brings joy to my ears (and heart!)

I am really so proud that they placed really well in their regional quiz bowl (5 out of the top 10, 30 contestants)

Clap, clap, very good my dear students ;)

My 2012

http://business2blogger.com/happy-new-year/

Before the month of January will be over, I should make my flashback post of the year that was.

My 2012 was still a year full of blessings.

I turned 31.

I attended weddings, a bridal shower and children's birthday parties.

I celebrated with my friends as they passed the Bar exam.

I got to be a tourist in my own city as my friends and I, with Allan, had fun around Crocodile Park.

My brother got hooked with marathons and triathlons.

I was privileged to give a recognition speech at my Alma Mater, in its new events center.

I got involved in IBP Legal Aid programs.

I had a 23-unit teaching load during the first semester.

It was the year that I got bitten by a centipede and had to admitted in a hospital. I was just happy that I was ok, just right before our Boracay trip.

I got to visit Boracay for the first time with the family, celebrating my mom and dad's 32nd wedding anniversary. Admittedly, Boracay didn't impress me much due to the constant rains and flooding. But I was so happy I get to parasail, helmet dive and fly fish with my brother and sister.

I got to spend time with my sister from Melbourne as she had a 2-week vacation in Davao City. We went to Pearl Farm for a day and went for eating escapades around Davao City as well.

I spent the last weekend of October in Manila for the Bar Operations.

I wasn't able to go with my friends in our planned trip to Manila due to my LLM classes. But I'm happy that they still enjoyed the trip nevertheless. I guess it just means we have to plan another trip.

I got to meet Atty. Dong Puno and Atty. Karen Jimeno. I really am a fan of Atty. Karen ;)

I started joining Bigby's Trivia Night on Wednesdays. I always have fun when I join. So far, so good ;)

My 2012 didn't end so well as our beloved Blossom left us very unexpectedly. And then, there was typhoon Pablo ...

Here's praying for continuous blessings in 2013!