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!

Blossom

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

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

I will miss you Blossom!

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

Our baby!

The cutie and her pink bed!

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

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

cute pa rin!

keeping up!

I love you Blossom!

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

Model!

Mermaid!

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

Baby, you light up my world like nobody else!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trivia Nights

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Peek-A-Book

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

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

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

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

I also have the "FRIENDS" Book.

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

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

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

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

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

Confessions of a (Non) Shopaholic

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

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

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

I might as well share the following thoughts:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Until my next post! Ciao!

Trivia

I love trivias!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fairy tales category was a fair game for everyone.

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

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

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

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

Work It!

I chanced upon this one while "facebooking".

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

True Blood

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Simple Plan

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

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

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

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

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

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

The same goes for the rest of the public.

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

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

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

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

I guess I can sum it up this way ..

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

Avoid doing bad thing because it is not right.

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

Alone

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Holidays!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Multiply

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

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

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

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

Thanks Multiply! Moving on ...

Pinoy Ako!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maligayang Araw ng Kalayaan!

Boracay

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some of our Day 1 pics:

That's my brother!

Took this picture!

Family picture

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

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

Helmet Divers!

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

All set!

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

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

Up, up and away we go!

Beautiful eyes .. haha!

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

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

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

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

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

Until the next trip!