stressed =(

I'm stressed again. Loads of work? maybe..No, i'm not complaining. I enjoy my work, I love teaching. Lately, I'm having terrible eyebags..i barely slept..took some naps but woke up again to read. Add to that my upcoming battle of critical thinking..i do hope and pray i could put a period into it.

This message keeps me stronger..

"Everytime I begin to feel that there is no more strength in me,

i end up knowing that there in more in HIM."

MyPETS activities 1

This is part 1 of the series of photo blogs about my, rather our pet dogs [chuckles]. I just love seeing them on each of their funny & captivating moments. They know when they are being photographed. Happy viewing!!

This is ivory, cutie little 'bora'. She has lots of nicknames.."bestfriend, princess", to name a few. The only girl among our pet dogs.

Posing for a while when called. She was playing around before this shot.

like her master, ivory loves to dwell on cold spot. In here, she was staring on

their bowl being refilled with water.

isn't she adorable? or aBORAble?? hahaha!! this is one of her cutest pictures!

ivory was like our living stuff toy. Taken right after their morning meal.

"oh boy, i am soo full!" Bora looks drowsy but still finds to stick that tongue out! hahaha!!

The RACE is on!

Finally, after the long wait..It's back and tougher [as the advertisement says]!

AMAZING RACE ASIA Season 3 is about to be aired this September 11, 2008 on AXN Channel 36, 9pm. I'd definitely mark my calendar. Looking forward to seeing the celebrity icons who represented Philippines. I do hope they've come a long way like that of Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez!

a long lost friend

Yesterday, i received a text message from someone whose been out somewhere for a long time. It was Jessica, my college friend/barkada. 2 years ago, she left this town to meet up with her Mom and live a new life in Cebu. Leaving her friends here clueless with her decision.

She's now working in Manila. It was good hearing from her again. We exchange text messages for hours. She sounded mature na. Her experiences made her realize the toughness of living alone and with nobody to run to. Lahat naman tayo may kabangbangan sa life. Ok lang yan, be tough, be careful and love your work!! You were just starting to face reality, jess! Truly, reality bites!!

Thanks for reaching out. I never forget friends. I never do that. Miss you!!

back from HongKong & a pasalubong from Malaysia

No. I havent been to Hongkong [wish ko lang!..hehehe]. It's my best bud patzs and his family came home yesterday..Hmmm, do i have a pasalubong? [Pasalubong, in general, is a gift for a relation or friend brought by" a " traveler returning from a trip].

Welcome back dear! Back to face the reality! He'd probably just smile when he gets to read this post. I know dear, i understand the shortage of your monetary funds [chuckles]. I'm glad you all got home safely. Thank GOD for the good things that happened to you this past few weeks. Miss ya, dear. So, when is our next coffee bonding? Just let me know, ok?

By the way, thank you for the pasalubong, Ma'am Sol! Wow ha, very Asian Spirit!!

Tindok

It looks like an ordinary banana but it's the biggest variety i've seen so far. Gen shared some of this fruit picked from her relative's backyard. Thank you!

The name is TINDOK. Its nearly 1 foot long with a diameter that my index finger and thumb won't meet an inch. Yeah, that big! I was told by 2 of my students it shouldn't be eaten raw because its tasteless.

It maybe boiled when unripe but you need to slice in pieces, enough to fit our pot. And when ripen, it's best to cook when mixed with coconut milk. Ahhh, sweetened banana in coconut milk..great for an afternoon snack!!

Final Exam

It's their Finals and I started a bit late than the scheduled time.

This afternoon, I asked chem to inform me if the salary is set to release. Well, well, well, affirmative..yahoo!! I went to school, still in my uniform and received my hard-earned compensation. I also received the subject loads this second term. The NA 2 students notified me of Chem's new look..Hmmm, can't wait to see her so I ask where she was. Surprised! My gosh, new look nga! Bangsy-bangsy ang trip ni Chem..Was that an effect of the 5th year anniversary? hehehe!!

Inspired probably of Anne Curtis' hair style. A head turner appeal! She asked me to dwell in the Funda lab for a while. NA 2 were surprised to see another proctor. Talk about heavily guarded examination. hahaha!! She then mentioned she would take me out for a treat. Hmmm, sounds tempting!! hehehe! We walk our way to Poblacion to have the soli(s) photocopied. While waiting, we headed back to DC. We had the same meal. She let me try the new TUNA PIE of this famous food chain. It taste really good, especially when serve hot. I love it!

I texted my sister asking them what food they want to eat. My treat. Brought home Spicy chicken [her favorite] and a Burger Meal for our househelp. Feels good to share some blessings. On our way home, I paid for the tricycle fare. Thanks again for the treat, Chem! Also, it's my Manong Louie's bday today.., August 19..Hmmm, let's not talk about his age. I think that number doesn't make him look old, it just makes him look younger. hehehe! I've already sent him our greetings. Good health and more years to your life, po!

glorious moment

Patrick P., RN, USRN

God is good! My best bud patzs sent me a text message that he PASSED NCLEX. Thumbs up!! Took the exam last friday and got the result [via quick count] just this afternoon.

We're so proud of you!!
Enjoy your HK vacation! Have a safe travel...regards to your family!!

busy but productive week..

God is good. I thank HIM for the good things that happened to me this week...

Sunday..My best bud patzs is about to take his NCLEX Exam in Manila this week and a luxurious vacation in HK with his family to follow..bongga jud ka, dear! imo pud tibuok family..ako pud next time..hehehe..He ask me if I could handle his Caregiver classes. I surely agreed!

Monday..Started my week again at school conducting lectures. The term ends this friday. Patzs informed me if i could start conducting his classes, oh boy! He then notified me of the topics to discuss and skills to teach. He has an important appointment to attend..[char!]

Tuesday..Sir Jopet introduced me to his friend, Sir Ralph and invited yours truly to be one of the panelist/interviewer of the NA 2nd year requirements for their Business English subject. So excited with the experience, i accepted the offer. Hmmm, have to think of the possible questions..

Wednesday..The interview is to start supposedly at 1pm but the [so called] applicants were late [hmmm, not a good impression] which made us wait for quite a while. Having been interviewed recently for job applications, the questions throwed at me were still fresh in my mind. So, that offer by sir jopette is not only interesting but will contribute to my experience. Thanks, Sir jopett! [thumbs up]

Anyways, when the interview started, the room was wrapped with silence and obvious sight of nervousness from interviewee(s). We were surprised to see some who wore Shirts & Jeans. It looked like they're just to stroll in the mall. [thumbs down]

It made them more anxious when the questions started to pour in. Some began to tone down their voice while answering, some opted not to continue answering and preferred to shut their mouth but there were nerveless, in which confidence has filled their consciousness. Sir jopette gave us the criteria to grade their performance.

After the interview, we cited our comments and suggestions. That part made them release a totally big sigh to breathe out. We commended those who dressed appropriately. I think I was able to get the job done successfully! Thank GOD.

I then headed to Home Health to teach the continuation of their module on providing personal care on elderly's. One of the student surely had a relaxing moment during shampoo in bed and combing of hair. Di ba, Jay? [hehe]

Thursday..Wasn't able to accompany Sir Ralph aka Ruffa in conducting the interview 'cause I had to finish discussing the remaining chapters on their Anatomy Manual. Ok, one last make up class.

Friday..Gave my students their last quiz for the term. For item #10, I ask 'What is the Fullname of your Instructor in Anatomy?' Haha! That question was a sort of an evaluation. We'll see who got my name correctly.

This is the last day of the interview session. And yes, i'm back as interviewer for the second time. Sir Ralph and I decided to divide the last group into 2. That strategy saved us time and energy. It was good working with Sir Ralph. I love the INTERVIEWER experience.

Ma'am Lyn of HH texted me if I could meet up with the Caregiver students now instead of the scheduled time this tuesday. The Instructor who is supposed to meet them called up and had to attend an important matter. So, I agreed to swap schedule.

Saturday..This morning, was supposed to join the WALK FOR HUMANITY activity organized by the PNRC. Since the day was gloomy, i barely noticed that it was already 9am. Yes, i woke up late leaving Sir Jopet to walk alone along with his students from all Departments. Maam Mavic and company was already in the City Stadium when they get there. He sent funny messages
mega walk jud ang iya drama, hahaha!! Kaluoy sa akong amega...

Afternoon, Mui and I meet up with our Team mates for the upcoming Intramurals. Not everyone were present. We started enlisting participants for each sports and contest. We'd still be screening players and candidates next week.

Late in the afternoon, Mui, te jel and I went to reina's place. Thanks for the early dinner, ter! Happy fiesta!!

happy weekend =)

They say..today, August 8, 2008 [888] with the combination of the lucky numbers is said to be the Lucky day of this Year of the Rat. The appropriate day to get marry, according to some. This must be an extraordinary day for weddings and births because of the number 8. In Chinese, this number symbolizes wealth.

Oh my gosh, the Olympic starts today, right? Pretty big day in Beijing. 'Punta tayo don!'[let's go there] [chuckles], my usual punchline when I think of a place I wanna go to. I heard, it is to start at 8PM.

Goodluck team PHILIPPINES!!! GO FOR GOLD!

This morning, I gave my students a quiz in Anatomy, checked their assignments and proceeded with my lesson. Few more chapters to discuss. The term is set to end next week. Whew!

After class, my former student, Jackie visited and treat us [some of her classmates] all in the nearby eatery. She even brought 3 boxes of pizza. She misses her classmates and the latter [including me] will be missing her when she leaves for work in the US [char!].

Before lunch, louie lead the prayer. I'm glad seeing my students bond early this term. I look forward to a stronger, harmonious relationship they have started.

Food really is best tasted when shared. We were like a big, happy family!! Bonding would never be complete without pictures so we consumed the remaining space of the memory card on my Digi. Click! Click! Click! Captured all moments..Haaay..College life..

We're really happy to see Jackie again. Whenever her classmates starts to sing friendship songs, she becomes emotional and couldn't hold back the tears. She was overwhelmed on how her classmates cares and loves their Ate [older sister]. She never felt like that before, she shares. She never thought a teacher like me, would join and have fun with them out
there!

Well, Jack. Apart from being your Classroom Instructor, I am also your friend. When I am at school, you noticed how I maintained a harmonious teacher-student relationship. I maybe strict most of the time but then those are for your own good.
Thank you for the respect you have given me. I appreciate that a lot.

Outside, I am your sister, your friend. I can be of help to any of my students for as long as I could, most especially in their studies. I, too was once a student. I know the feeling of having sacrifices, difficulties and overcoming them all.

Thank you, Jackie. Keep in touch, ok?

I started this post at the internet library at school awhile ago but one of the Admin Staff will use the unit I was using, i saved its draft and logged-out. When Ma'am G went back, I left with consent.

Been to Rural Bank, paid the electric bill and on my way out, my sister texted to check on her mail. Her classmate would send her something. I checked. No latest mail yet.

Now, i am here at Glorenz Cafe. It's their 4th year Anniversary. Hmmm..One of the Cafe attendant welcomed yours truly with a smile and greeted him/her [somewhat confused of the gender] 'happy anniversary!'

They served tummy-filling snacks to its customers. And for today, they charged ONLY P10/hour. How is that for a treat? My cellphone is low batt. I couldn't text my sister, I haven't memorize her new number yet. When i came here, there were like 4 customers but now, I guess the virus has been spread. Customers kept coming. The ship is already full! [chuckles]

until my next post, ciao!

Accidents happen

Yesterday. 15:43 [that's 3:43pm] on my cellphone. Pi notified me thru text they've had a motorcyle accident somewhere in the accident prone area going to Hagonoy.

I read the message when i got home from the market. I immediately replied where they were taken and how are they doing.

Oh my God, this is the 3rd time. Two of my students from the 1st year, AM class met an accident sometime in June and July. The first one was a Motorcycle accident. On his way to school, his motorcycle slipped somewhere in the Highway. The 2nd one was on a Tricycle accident. According to Rea, there was something wrong with the vehicle's brake and lead to coiling of the wheels chain, or something like that [niungot daw kung sa bisaya pa, hehehe]. It went out of control leaving the passengers in the front seat [including her] placed under
the tricycle. I checked on her at the hospital during breaktime. Got admitted for further evaluation. Thank GOD nothing serious happened. Saved probably by her guardian angel!
Now, Both of my students were perfectly ok. THANK GOD!

Anyway, Mui and I visited them at the hospital and sad to see G in her pity condition. She refused to be seen. No serious injury noted, anyway. But her face suffered contusions, torn lower lip but was already stitched when we get there. She couldn't walk properly due to her swelling thigh. She is set to have her X-RAY taken this morning. I do pray everything will be alright.

The night before, we kept on laughing then last night, it was the complete opposite. Meanwhile, Pi had bruises on her left arm and complained of inability to raise the same arm higher. Pi managed to joke around despite the minor injury she got. Talk about saved by the medium built body..hehehe!

They were given medications for pain. G shares it frightens her when she closes her eyes, the scene of what had happened flashbacks! She must have been traumatized.

Anyways, inside the suite room, it has its own bathroom, TV, mini ref, aircon, mini closet and a luminous crucifix of Jesus Christ to boost the patients spiritual needs.

The room was filled with laughter again as we talked on funny things. At first, she couldn't open her mouth but later on, she manages to join and talks slowly. She would cover her face with blanket whenever she sees us laughing. We would just notice her shoulders giggling. Hehehe!!

I thought of bringing my Digi. She might want to have her photograph taken. But told us in jest, she won't talk to me anymore had I brought my precious gadget. hahaha!!

I went home pass 12mn already.

flowers & photos [2]

LOZADA Resort's ORCHIDARIUM

An orchid type which looks like a crawling creature with prints same as those of the tigers.

There were lots of varieties on the other side of the place but since it was getting dark,
i couldn't take a good photograph!

more flowers to feature soon...

Lozada Resort

<--- one of the resorts lovely sight is its anthurium garden.

Quarter to 5pm, i left home and headed to Mui's place. Gen and Ophelei got there ahead of me. While waiting for cindy and rodelyn, we walked towards the convenience store to buy some chips.

5:36pm, Ophelei switch on the engine and took the road off for pleasure driving. I envy her. I like seeing ladies who mans a car. Sosyal! [sosy] It made me recall the time when I was in Manila 2 years ago, my Aunt Nelly and Manang Chen took me out for a treat with my nephews and niece and I witness how Manang [an ilokano term we use to note older sister/cousin & so on] operates the car. I told myself, "I've got to learn driving". Sooon...

The path to San Isidro seems familiar. To our surprise, the resort is just blocks away from Malyn's Residence.

5:55pm. Finally! we set foot at LOZADA RESORT. A newly built [December 2007] public place for recreation. Entrance fee costs P30 for adults and P20 for children. What fascinates me was their array of blooming orchids & anthuriums. They even have vegetables, just by looking at them I would remember my favorite chopsuey.

I think they intend to make the place not just a resort but an orchidarium and a vegetable farm. I love their orchids, took pictures of some variety that is new to my sight.

We settled ourselves to their native hut which costs P150. The girls changed their clothes as soon as we were done setting up the table. Yeah, too excited to take the plunge!

That night was a sort of gathering with my former students and now on their 2nd & last year under the Advisory of Mui. We had so much fun, we laugh out aloud enjoying every minute of our stay. It was like we own the pool.

The girls wanted to sing along in the karaoke but to no avail. There were too many singing wannabe's waiting for their turn to express their "sort-of" hidden talents. Hahaha!! Funny thing is they chosen piece were all from years beyond. Ya know what I mean, hehehe!

The resort had 2 swimming pools, by the way. For adults and kids. The one for adults ranges from 5-7ft deep. Yours truly and some of her not-so-good-in-swimming companions managed to swam around near the wide pool stairs with rails. I could swim farther if it was daytime but since its night time, I was afraid of the limited surrounding light in the pool area. I just thought of my personal safety, that's all [chuckles]

When we were inside the bathroom..my gosh! i forgot to pack extra supot [plastic bag] for my wet clothes. [Sigh] I just squeeze my damp suits and wrapped it with my towel and slip it on inside my bag. Solved!

Tip: always include plastic bag on your checklist the next time you go out for swimming!

There were Local Barangay Officials roaming around, monitoring the security of the place. These people even escorted us to the exit point. Thank you, Sir! [thumbs up]

Went home around 12:30AM. Thanks to Gen and Ophelie for taking us all back to Digos, safely. They got home safely, as well.

Semi-final Exam

It's the 2nd day of their third exam. Yeah, the rapid phase of being on a Term basis. Every after 2 weeks comes examination day. So, lectures are compressed. It's up to the Instructor on how to budget the time for lessons, class activity, quiz and examinations.

Yesterday was their Anatomy exam. That same day in the afternoon, I checked and recorded their scores. Pretty glad by the consistency of one of my brilliant student! [thumbs up] I don't keep their test papers at home. I return it to them as soon as I could so they can use it for future reference.

This morning, they had an exam on Ethics. Their strictly monitoring proctor strikes again.. [chuckles] Gen sent a text message inviting Mui and I to come with them to unwind, go swimming after their epistaxis-ing exam. The venue was new to us, it's a resort. Hmm..sounds interesting! Since we're not doing anything, we decided to come along with Sir Jopay.

We will meet around 4-5pm at Mui's place. I'll post a blog about the place maybe tomorrow or on sunday.

Have to go now..ciao!