Monday, December 15, 2008
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Baby Bliss!
First picture together at the Delivery Room -- right after c section.
After my first breastfeeding session. Nursery at the Medical City.
Nico after my second breastfeeding session at the Neo-natal ICU (NICU) The Medical City, Pasig City.
Tonight is not so different from every night I've had at home since November 30, 2008, Baby Nico's first night here at our home in Quezon City. Endless nappy changes, breastfeeding sessions and sleepless nights -- it seems this won't change.
At first, it was quite easy. I was a late sleeper and I thought I could handle the sleeplessness that a new baby brings. Well, on the third night, I was sooo happy my husband was eager to help me out and take turns taking care of the baby during the night. I really needed some sleep.
Well, now I'd like to believe that I have adjusted well to my baby's rythm. I sleep when he sleeps coz when he's awake he needs to feed a lot.
Nico is really a delight and despite the adjustment and sometimes the dread that I feel that he might cramp my lifestyle when I get back to Bicol, I think everything will be worth it. A blessing is a blessing is a blessing.
Monday, September 01, 2008
Eraserheads Pa Rin!
After posting my semi-rant on my failure to watch the Eheads concert last Saturday, I cold not help but post my thoughts on what happened, now that Ely is in the hospital recovering from his 4th angioplasty surgery, and the 15-song 1st set that the band delivered.
I still feel bad that I was not there last Saturday. My brother was telling me that the crowd situation was not all that bad. I could have just stayed daw in the vicinity in the comforts of my car and still enjoy that concert. But, of course, I would only be able to hear them, not watch them.
My college friends were also able to watch. They have posted their pictures in our egroups and it brought a smile to my face seeing them together and enjoying the concert. But, of course, they all look more like yuppies from Makati and Ortigas rather than college students in UP. So much has changed.
On TV, there were even some bisdaks (guys from the visayas) who flew in just to watch the concert. Kakainggit talaga! Hmp!
Right now, rather than pray for a reunion concert part 2, I am praying for ely buendia's safe recovery. Before anything else, kahit sabi ng marami mayabang siya, there would not be a reunion concert without Eraserheads front man, Ely Buendia. I remember watching an Eraserheads gig right after Ely left and he was replaced with that girl from Fatal Posporos, (sorry, I forgot her name -- too tamad to look it up in google :-) it just did not have the same magic. It felt different. So, I know it has to be all four of them or its not Eraserheads at all.
But, I guess, if I was there, I would not be disappointed at all even if they just played 15 songs. Actually sanay ako na matipid sila sa kanta. I remember attending numerous Eraserhead concerts where the front acts had more stage-time than the Eraserheads. They would usually just be on stage for an hour singing about, yes, 15 songs. So, although it would be really disappointing knowing that I could have heard 15 more songs, I think I would have understood.
As Ligaya is playing on the background, I hope and pray that they decide to come together again and make us go back to that innocence that we once had as youths. For now, I'll indulge myself in listening to their songs and sipping white coffee mocha (salamat Aben -- hehehe.)
I still feel bad that I was not there last Saturday. My brother was telling me that the crowd situation was not all that bad. I could have just stayed daw in the vicinity in the comforts of my car and still enjoy that concert. But, of course, I would only be able to hear them, not watch them.
My college friends were also able to watch. They have posted their pictures in our egroups and it brought a smile to my face seeing them together and enjoying the concert. But, of course, they all look more like yuppies from Makati and Ortigas rather than college students in UP. So much has changed.
On TV, there were even some bisdaks (guys from the visayas) who flew in just to watch the concert. Kakainggit talaga! Hmp!
Right now, rather than pray for a reunion concert part 2, I am praying for ely buendia's safe recovery. Before anything else, kahit sabi ng marami mayabang siya, there would not be a reunion concert without Eraserheads front man, Ely Buendia. I remember watching an Eraserheads gig right after Ely left and he was replaced with that girl from Fatal Posporos, (sorry, I forgot her name -- too tamad to look it up in google :-) it just did not have the same magic. It felt different. So, I know it has to be all four of them or its not Eraserheads at all.
But, I guess, if I was there, I would not be disappointed at all even if they just played 15 songs. Actually sanay ako na matipid sila sa kanta. I remember attending numerous Eraserhead concerts where the front acts had more stage-time than the Eraserheads. They would usually just be on stage for an hour singing about, yes, 15 songs. So, although it would be really disappointing knowing that I could have heard 15 more songs, I think I would have understood.
As Ligaya is playing on the background, I hope and pray that they decide to come together again and make us go back to that innocence that we once had as youths. For now, I'll indulge myself in listening to their songs and sipping white coffee mocha (salamat Aben -- hehehe.)
Eraserheads
(I was going to post this last August 29. But, as luck would have it, my wifi at home is going bonkers again. I am posting this anyway just to get some thoughts out there.)
It is the 29th of August. Friday. I really feel a little depressed.
Tomorrow is the 30th of August. Saturday. I would rather be somewhere else but here. And, this is one of those moments in life where you feel your age, your responsibilities, your maturities…
Tomorrow is the Eraserheads Reunion Concert.
My husband said, “I don’t care. It doesn’t bother me. I was never the banda-banda type.” I felt sadder.
Excitement Raises
My brother once told me, I think about a month ago, that the Eraserheads are going to have a reunion concert. Honestly, I did not think much of it because I thought “imposible”. This rumor has been on the mill for a long time now and it has never come to fruition. What could be different now?
Apparently, it seems, some people felt that this was such a good idea that they were paid, reportedly, a couple of million pesos each just to have that reunion concert. Anyway, what followed was a roller coaster ride of excitement and disappointment as Philip Morris, the initial promoters and sponsors of the concert took the heat from anti-smoking lobbyists which later ended in finally having them drop this event like a hot potato.
In the midst of all these, I have been planning on how I can go about going to Manila to watch the concert. I knew I was going to have some issues about this since I am pregnant and my husband has been very paranoid about letting me travel. So, as news of the concert went from “tuloy” to “di-tuloy” and to “tuloy” again, so with my plans of going to Manila for the end of August weekend.
Finally Pushing Trough
Last Wednesday, I learned that the concert is finally pushing through from TV news. I was soooo glad. The thing is, I knew I had to finalize my plans. I told my husband, but his reply to me is that quote I mentioned above. I felt sick. It seems I really won’t have a chance.
Then, I surfed the net for details. The ticket prices did not bother me.(di naman ako mayabang -- medyo desperate lang manood -- hehehe) What hit me though is the fact that the concert is going to be at The Fort in Taguig. It was going to be standing room only, whether you choose the VIP area or the back area.
That just won’t work. I am 25 weeks pregnant and I can’t stand for long periods of time. Of course, I can bring my own seat or something, or make the concert into some kind of picnic by putting a blanket and bring food, but I am nervous of the crowds. I thought, I just cannot go to that kind of risk. It’s my first baby… you know the drill…
Eraserheads and Me
A lot of people do not understand my relationship with the Eraserheads. I was still a journalism student in UP Diliman, when these four simple, matter-of-fact, down-to-earth guys started singing gigs in UP, Mayrics and Club Dredd. I love their songs. It seemed to articulate all my feelings as a student, a young adult and as a person looking for my place in a bigger world. Their songs were part of the soundtrack that encapsulated that part of my life.
My college barkada was also forged somehow by our love for Eraserheads. Somehow, Eheads was something common among our generation. I am expecting that most of them would be watching or be in the vicinity anyway to at least be part of this momentous event. It is once in a lifetime. We do not know when it will happen again.
I still have all their tapes. I did not have a cd player then. Besides, I could not afford it yet at that time. I still play their tapes until now, especially during blue days. It always calms me and makes me feel that everything would be okay.
What I loved most about Eheads, is that they were never pretentious. They sang about their experiences and talks about it like it is – funny, insightful, emotional, personal. They never pretended to be anything else, although some would say that fame somehow changed them and led them to eventually mature and go their own way. I say, that the change would be inevitable because as they sang and explored their experiences, they grew up and found out that they can be better artists if they go their own way – maybe, finding that their Eheads experience is too stifling and does not encourage them to fly.
I can relate to that. It is true that we do have our own groups or barkadas in college, but as we mature, we find other groups that make us grow and encourage us to fly. Our college friends are still there and we do come back and see them once in a while but more that anything to touch base and make sure that we stay in touch with our purity or at least be reminded of it.
I have always felt that Eraserheads are activists, but unlike the civil society kind, they raved and ranted about the experience of the youth rather than rant about the government. They talked about the self and its relationship with other individuals, barkadas, family but not so much about a bigger society. They are activists because they articulated much of the angst and experiences of the youth which otherwise would not have been heard. They were the mouthpiece of a generation that felt that the way they can be of service to society is to first find peace with themselves and make sense of their confusing experiences.
SO…
Eraserheads always had a philosophical significance in my life. More than just being a band that made me feel better and forget it all, they made me feel that I am not alone in my experiences as a young adult. So I do feel bad about not being able to watch the concert. It is like a case of “water, water everywhere but not a drop to drink”, coz, I can watch if I truly want to but I have to consider many things before going.
I also have so many realizations that hit me, the significance of which has changed my view of myself. The most significant of my realizations is that I am indeed an adult. I can no longer say that, yes, I am pregnant, but after this I will be out there again having fun the same way I did when I was not yet pregnant. Drinking beer, smoking, jamming with my “banda” friends. This makes me wonder, will I still be able to jam and sing those three songs on stage, ala avril lavigne or more like nanette inventor (hehehe) as my brother used to tease me with? I don't know. I do know that I have to somehow prepare myself to say goodbye to that lifestyle. I have to think about this little life inside of me rather than think of myself all the time.
I should stop thinking that I would be back in circulation after giving birth. Yes, I may still do it, but little baby will have to take priority. I really can’t believe it. I have changed and frankly, I don’t mind.
Now, all said… do I still feel bad not watching the Eraserheads concert? Well, yes, but I can bear it because the reasons that I am not going is worth it.
It is the 29th of August. Friday. I really feel a little depressed.
Tomorrow is the 30th of August. Saturday. I would rather be somewhere else but here. And, this is one of those moments in life where you feel your age, your responsibilities, your maturities…
Tomorrow is the Eraserheads Reunion Concert.
My husband said, “I don’t care. It doesn’t bother me. I was never the banda-banda type.” I felt sadder.
Excitement Raises
My brother once told me, I think about a month ago, that the Eraserheads are going to have a reunion concert. Honestly, I did not think much of it because I thought “imposible”. This rumor has been on the mill for a long time now and it has never come to fruition. What could be different now?
Apparently, it seems, some people felt that this was such a good idea that they were paid, reportedly, a couple of million pesos each just to have that reunion concert. Anyway, what followed was a roller coaster ride of excitement and disappointment as Philip Morris, the initial promoters and sponsors of the concert took the heat from anti-smoking lobbyists which later ended in finally having them drop this event like a hot potato.
In the midst of all these, I have been planning on how I can go about going to Manila to watch the concert. I knew I was going to have some issues about this since I am pregnant and my husband has been very paranoid about letting me travel. So, as news of the concert went from “tuloy” to “di-tuloy” and to “tuloy” again, so with my plans of going to Manila for the end of August weekend.
Finally Pushing Trough
Last Wednesday, I learned that the concert is finally pushing through from TV news. I was soooo glad. The thing is, I knew I had to finalize my plans. I told my husband, but his reply to me is that quote I mentioned above. I felt sick. It seems I really won’t have a chance.
Then, I surfed the net for details. The ticket prices did not bother me.(di naman ako mayabang -- medyo desperate lang manood -- hehehe) What hit me though is the fact that the concert is going to be at The Fort in Taguig. It was going to be standing room only, whether you choose the VIP area or the back area.
That just won’t work. I am 25 weeks pregnant and I can’t stand for long periods of time. Of course, I can bring my own seat or something, or make the concert into some kind of picnic by putting a blanket and bring food, but I am nervous of the crowds. I thought, I just cannot go to that kind of risk. It’s my first baby… you know the drill…
Eraserheads and Me
A lot of people do not understand my relationship with the Eraserheads. I was still a journalism student in UP Diliman, when these four simple, matter-of-fact, down-to-earth guys started singing gigs in UP, Mayrics and Club Dredd. I love their songs. It seemed to articulate all my feelings as a student, a young adult and as a person looking for my place in a bigger world. Their songs were part of the soundtrack that encapsulated that part of my life.
My college barkada was also forged somehow by our love for Eraserheads. Somehow, Eheads was something common among our generation. I am expecting that most of them would be watching or be in the vicinity anyway to at least be part of this momentous event. It is once in a lifetime. We do not know when it will happen again.
I still have all their tapes. I did not have a cd player then. Besides, I could not afford it yet at that time. I still play their tapes until now, especially during blue days. It always calms me and makes me feel that everything would be okay.
What I loved most about Eheads, is that they were never pretentious. They sang about their experiences and talks about it like it is – funny, insightful, emotional, personal. They never pretended to be anything else, although some would say that fame somehow changed them and led them to eventually mature and go their own way. I say, that the change would be inevitable because as they sang and explored their experiences, they grew up and found out that they can be better artists if they go their own way – maybe, finding that their Eheads experience is too stifling and does not encourage them to fly.
I can relate to that. It is true that we do have our own groups or barkadas in college, but as we mature, we find other groups that make us grow and encourage us to fly. Our college friends are still there and we do come back and see them once in a while but more that anything to touch base and make sure that we stay in touch with our purity or at least be reminded of it.
I have always felt that Eraserheads are activists, but unlike the civil society kind, they raved and ranted about the experience of the youth rather than rant about the government. They talked about the self and its relationship with other individuals, barkadas, family but not so much about a bigger society. They are activists because they articulated much of the angst and experiences of the youth which otherwise would not have been heard. They were the mouthpiece of a generation that felt that the way they can be of service to society is to first find peace with themselves and make sense of their confusing experiences.
SO…
Eraserheads always had a philosophical significance in my life. More than just being a band that made me feel better and forget it all, they made me feel that I am not alone in my experiences as a young adult. So I do feel bad about not being able to watch the concert. It is like a case of “water, water everywhere but not a drop to drink”, coz, I can watch if I truly want to but I have to consider many things before going.
I also have so many realizations that hit me, the significance of which has changed my view of myself. The most significant of my realizations is that I am indeed an adult. I can no longer say that, yes, I am pregnant, but after this I will be out there again having fun the same way I did when I was not yet pregnant. Drinking beer, smoking, jamming with my “banda” friends. This makes me wonder, will I still be able to jam and sing those three songs on stage, ala avril lavigne or more like nanette inventor (hehehe) as my brother used to tease me with? I don't know. I do know that I have to somehow prepare myself to say goodbye to that lifestyle. I have to think about this little life inside of me rather than think of myself all the time.
I should stop thinking that I would be back in circulation after giving birth. Yes, I may still do it, but little baby will have to take priority. I really can’t believe it. I have changed and frankly, I don’t mind.
Now, all said… do I still feel bad not watching the Eraserheads concert? Well, yes, but I can bear it because the reasons that I am not going is worth it.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Bagyo na naman?
There's a typhoon that is now near Catanduanes. Cat'nes is now Signal No. 1 (the last time I checked -- last night! LOL). Camarines Sur is also Signal No. 1 from the last advisory.
You know that it means for Iriga. I need not enumerate.As the ceo of unep, I am once again on red alert. I am monitoring this typhoon -- Lawin -- it might be one of those days again. We have to move all the stuff which could be flood-damaged on the second floor of the admin building. We need to secure all things that could be wind-damaged. Oh well, the UNEP Gym again -- how about it? I just pray that what had happened in Milenyo and Reming will not happen anymore to our Gym.
I am monitoring the typhoon on Mike Padua's typhoon2000.com. Not that I don't believe Pag-Asa, but I rather like the blow-by-blow reporting of Mike Padua. It lessens the anxiety as we brace our selves on what is to come. A natural distaster is a natural disaster. There is no way around it except to prepare, prepare, prepare. That's all. I have been disaster prepared since I was a child. My grandma who lived through the WWII made sure we got those survival kits ready in our rooms always. We always have a bag ready with a couple of changer of clothes, flashlights, some basic medicines, batteries and a transistor radio. I still maintain this habit. It keeps me sane and secure thinking that I am prepared.
In UNEP we have already organized the Campus Emergency Response Team (CERT) through the efforts of our Criminology Dean Donald Narra and Mr. Joseph Florendo. So far so good. We just need several drills to make sure that what the students learned in the CERT can be translated into real life. I have also read the cover story in Time Magazine about Disaster Preparedness and I can't forget about that Morgan Stanley Security Director who made sure that all Morgan Stanley employees were aware of what to do during disasters. During the twin tower bombing in New York, It helped save more than 2000 employees in that company all becuase he made sure they were prepared.
I am so inspired by this story that I want all my employees and students in this University to be aware of what best to do in a disaster to save themselves. Typhoons are just the start of it. We have landslides, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions to contend with. Our place is far from safe. Our University sits at the foot of Mt. Iriga (ASOG) and is at the heart of the Central Business District and is described as "Kababaan" or the part of the lowest point in the City. Jesus... we have so much preparing to do where this is concerned. I am just glad that there are people in the University who are also in the same frame of mind as I am. I am sure, some people are thinking that I must be going bonkers for being so worried about disasters when the prevailing attitude is just to deal with it when it comes.
Well, as I end this entry, all I can say is I'd rather be Noah (and be laughed at) than be part of the thousands who were drowned during the deluge.
You know that it means for Iriga. I need not enumerate.As the ceo of unep, I am once again on red alert. I am monitoring this typhoon -- Lawin -- it might be one of those days again. We have to move all the stuff which could be flood-damaged on the second floor of the admin building. We need to secure all things that could be wind-damaged. Oh well, the UNEP Gym again -- how about it? I just pray that what had happened in Milenyo and Reming will not happen anymore to our Gym.
I am monitoring the typhoon on Mike Padua's typhoon2000.com. Not that I don't believe Pag-Asa, but I rather like the blow-by-blow reporting of Mike Padua. It lessens the anxiety as we brace our selves on what is to come. A natural distaster is a natural disaster. There is no way around it except to prepare, prepare, prepare. That's all. I have been disaster prepared since I was a child. My grandma who lived through the WWII made sure we got those survival kits ready in our rooms always. We always have a bag ready with a couple of changer of clothes, flashlights, some basic medicines, batteries and a transistor radio. I still maintain this habit. It keeps me sane and secure thinking that I am prepared.
In UNEP we have already organized the Campus Emergency Response Team (CERT) through the efforts of our Criminology Dean Donald Narra and Mr. Joseph Florendo. So far so good. We just need several drills to make sure that what the students learned in the CERT can be translated into real life. I have also read the cover story in Time Magazine about Disaster Preparedness and I can't forget about that Morgan Stanley Security Director who made sure that all Morgan Stanley employees were aware of what to do during disasters. During the twin tower bombing in New York, It helped save more than 2000 employees in that company all becuase he made sure they were prepared.
I am so inspired by this story that I want all my employees and students in this University to be aware of what best to do in a disaster to save themselves. Typhoons are just the start of it. We have landslides, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions to contend with. Our place is far from safe. Our University sits at the foot of Mt. Iriga (ASOG) and is at the heart of the Central Business District and is described as "Kababaan" or the part of the lowest point in the City. Jesus... we have so much preparing to do where this is concerned. I am just glad that there are people in the University who are also in the same frame of mind as I am. I am sure, some people are thinking that I must be going bonkers for being so worried about disasters when the prevailing attitude is just to deal with it when it comes.
Well, as I end this entry, all I can say is I'd rather be Noah (and be laughed at) than be part of the thousands who were drowned during the deluge.
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Pregnancy Boredom
I am now on my 22nd week of pregnancy. The little life inside of me seems quite restless. It seems to be doing somersaults inside. It is not painful at all but truly uncomfortable.
Bored. That's me right now. Bored to death! I want to go out but my husband is not allowing me to leave even a few kilometers outside the city limits. I am not allowed to drive even. The only distance I am allowed to drive is from our house to UNEP which is about a kilometer or two.
He's not usually that strict or worried about me, but the pregnancy is making him really paranoid. Its our first baby so he is quite picky about my situation.
Anyway, I am whiling away my time watching tv, surfing the net and doing my paperwork for the University. I will be taking up scrapbooking again once I received the kits I ordered online. My life sounds pathetic. But gladly, I am so optimistic for me to be depressed. I always take the good with the bad and usually I always see the positive in all of the situations I am in. It makes me feel better and helps me to cope. But man... I am sooo.... bored!
But not to worry, as I have said, I am glad for all this time to take stock and learn more about my pregnancy and taking care of babies. I just hope this boredom slides.
Bored. That's me right now. Bored to death! I want to go out but my husband is not allowing me to leave even a few kilometers outside the city limits. I am not allowed to drive even. The only distance I am allowed to drive is from our house to UNEP which is about a kilometer or two.
He's not usually that strict or worried about me, but the pregnancy is making him really paranoid. Its our first baby so he is quite picky about my situation.
Anyway, I am whiling away my time watching tv, surfing the net and doing my paperwork for the University. I will be taking up scrapbooking again once I received the kits I ordered online. My life sounds pathetic. But gladly, I am so optimistic for me to be depressed. I always take the good with the bad and usually I always see the positive in all of the situations I am in. It makes me feel better and helps me to cope. But man... I am sooo.... bored!
But not to worry, as I have said, I am glad for all this time to take stock and learn more about my pregnancy and taking care of babies. I just hope this boredom slides.
Surprised!
You Are a Good Student of Men |
 You're pretty good at knowing what men are thinking But you're not dead on 100% of the time Let your guy off the hook sometimes... because you may be reading him all wrong! |
Monday, May 26, 2008
Fire Fear 2
Last May 02, 2006, I posted in this blog a fire that happened in the Administration Building of UNEP. This year, we had another fire in the family.
Last May 18, 2008, a Sunday, at about 12 o'clock noon, our ancestral home located inside the UNEP campus was gutted once again. Once again because this is the 2nd time that the house had been gutted by fire. The whole family of my Uncle Awel lives in the house except for my cousin Wella and her family who already has their own house near that old one.
The fire started in the kitchen because allegedly a fire used for cooking burst up into a large flame that fired up a live wire where the light of the kitchen was attached. The flame from the cooking stove lighted up the wire where fire travelled on the ceiling and engulfed the whole house. It was a good thing that the firemen arrived promptly. Well, they should since they are practically just about a block away from the house.
The good thing though is that my Grandmother's house which was just beside that gutted house was saved. Also, my cousin M-M's room was saved with everything in tact. They all live now at Jun and Wella's house. I heard that my cousin Nonokoy and his family has already moved out from Jun and Wella's to move in next door in their house which is almost done now. Uncle Awel lives with them now.
I really do not know what to make of it. I just hope all of us learn something from this even once again.
Last May 18, 2008, a Sunday, at about 12 o'clock noon, our ancestral home located inside the UNEP campus was gutted once again. Once again because this is the 2nd time that the house had been gutted by fire. The whole family of my Uncle Awel lives in the house except for my cousin Wella and her family who already has their own house near that old one.
The fire started in the kitchen because allegedly a fire used for cooking burst up into a large flame that fired up a live wire where the light of the kitchen was attached. The flame from the cooking stove lighted up the wire where fire travelled on the ceiling and engulfed the whole house. It was a good thing that the firemen arrived promptly. Well, they should since they are practically just about a block away from the house.
The good thing though is that my Grandmother's house which was just beside that gutted house was saved. Also, my cousin M-M's room was saved with everything in tact. They all live now at Jun and Wella's house. I heard that my cousin Nonokoy and his family has already moved out from Jun and Wella's to move in next door in their house which is almost done now. Uncle Awel lives with them now.
I really do not know what to make of it. I just hope all of us learn something from this even once again.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Back Home
I just arrived from Manila for a much needed sanity break. I have been staying at home in iriga for weeks now and i really felt crazy just watching tv.
Actually the real reason i went to Manila was to be interviewed for my us visa which by the way I received today. I got a 10 year multiple entry visa. I couldn't believe it. I was expecting a month but maybe Rotary once again weaved its magic.
My baby's healthy. My cousin Dra. Regala-Gimenez checked it out and she gave me and the baby a clean bill of health and so with Kuya Jojo. I really feel better now that Ate Chomby saw me with her trusty ultrasound in Bambang.
I also got to check out the facilities of Medical City in Ortigas. It was all state of the art but the rooms were small. I did like the Presidential and the Executive Suite. But, I don't know. It is too expensive.
I checked out St. Lukes too but I havent seen their rooms. I surmise and expect that St. Lukes will have bigger rooms. I might be back in Manila by September. In that time, I expect to be more informed about this matter.
Please continue to pray for me and my baby.
Actually the real reason i went to Manila was to be interviewed for my us visa which by the way I received today. I got a 10 year multiple entry visa. I couldn't believe it. I was expecting a month but maybe Rotary once again weaved its magic.
My baby's healthy. My cousin Dra. Regala-Gimenez checked it out and she gave me and the baby a clean bill of health and so with Kuya Jojo. I really feel better now that Ate Chomby saw me with her trusty ultrasound in Bambang.
I also got to check out the facilities of Medical City in Ortigas. It was all state of the art but the rooms were small. I did like the Presidential and the Executive Suite. But, I don't know. It is too expensive.
I checked out St. Lukes too but I havent seen their rooms. I surmise and expect that St. Lukes will have bigger rooms. I might be back in Manila by September. In that time, I expect to be more informed about this matter.
Please continue to pray for me and my baby.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
The Stork Finally Visited
It was the 17th of April when we found out we were pregnant. It was after a disappointing day of having a little bleeding when I finally gave in and got a pregnancy test kit to find out.
I was supposed to get my period last April 6. When I did not get it, I decided to wait until the 15th before jumping to conclusions. We already waited two years and finding out if I am pregnant can wait for 9 more days. The 15th arrived and I bought the kit. But still did not want to find out. I was afraid to be disappointed.
The next day though, after taking a bath in the morning I had what appeared to be bleeding. I just kept mum. Didn't tell Mon about it, went to work and just had a normal working day. But... I was worried.
The next day, I decided to do the pregnancy test. I might be miscarriaging and not know it! It was positive. I had mixed emotions upon seeing the double red lines on that test kit. I was so happy yet I was afraid that I might have blown it with the bleeding and all.
I called up my cousin Ate Tshombee immediately. She advised me to see an OB before jumping to conclusions. And so I did.
After a long time waiting in the Doctor's waiting area, I was finally called. I was number 15 on the list and I killed the time reading about Britney and Lindsay Lohan in People Magazine.
The doctor was very kind and approachable. She did an ultrasound and she said I am now on my 6th week. My EDC is December 13, 2008. There is a heartbeat already. 118 heartbeats per minute. Tao na! I was so pleased. The doctor also gave me some shots to keep the baby.
Upon going home, I immediately looked for my feng shui calendar and found out I am going to have a baby boy. Of course, that still remains to be seen.
Now I am on my 8th week and although I am still on bed rest, I am doing fine.
I was supposed to get my period last April 6. When I did not get it, I decided to wait until the 15th before jumping to conclusions. We already waited two years and finding out if I am pregnant can wait for 9 more days. The 15th arrived and I bought the kit. But still did not want to find out. I was afraid to be disappointed.
The next day though, after taking a bath in the morning I had what appeared to be bleeding. I just kept mum. Didn't tell Mon about it, went to work and just had a normal working day. But... I was worried.
The next day, I decided to do the pregnancy test. I might be miscarriaging and not know it! It was positive. I had mixed emotions upon seeing the double red lines on that test kit. I was so happy yet I was afraid that I might have blown it with the bleeding and all.
I called up my cousin Ate Tshombee immediately. She advised me to see an OB before jumping to conclusions. And so I did.
After a long time waiting in the Doctor's waiting area, I was finally called. I was number 15 on the list and I killed the time reading about Britney and Lindsay Lohan in People Magazine.
The doctor was very kind and approachable. She did an ultrasound and she said I am now on my 6th week. My EDC is December 13, 2008. There is a heartbeat already. 118 heartbeats per minute. Tao na! I was so pleased. The doctor also gave me some shots to keep the baby.
Upon going home, I immediately looked for my feng shui calendar and found out I am going to have a baby boy. Of course, that still remains to be seen.
Now I am on my 8th week and although I am still on bed rest, I am doing fine.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Moving Out
What occupies me nowadays is moving out from my Parent's house in Iriga to a house my hubby and I bought in Naga. Since we decided at the start of the year to finally think about our future and move to a place of our own, our little project has occupied all my free time. From surfing the net for inspiration, to flipping through tons of magazine pages, I still cannot make up my mind on how I can furnish the place.
There is also the thing of making my family accept that we are really going to have a place of our own. None of my cousins has done this in the Philippines. As is the tradition, we usually stay with our parents. Not really to save (well that's part of it too..) but because of our attachment to our families. I was telling my friend the other day how strange it is that here in the province everyone seems to be surprised if one decides to move out from your parents. "Why are you moving out?" people immediately ask as if there is one controversial issue that made you leave your parents.
I am already 31 years old, my husband is 34. I don't know, but I really think real life should start for us now. We should start living our way through life, doing our own marketing, paying our own bills and making our own decisions. Although of course my Dad does not mind that we live with them. The extra mouths to feed was never an issue. He does not approve of us moving out. But we did it anyway. He just treats the issue with indifference now. I also think we can focus more on ourselves as a unit, a family.
Well, as my inspiration is going nowadays, I'm thinking Ikea... Using locally available furniture. I think its clean and simple.
We are scheduled to move in on February 6, before Chinese New Year.
There is also the thing of making my family accept that we are really going to have a place of our own. None of my cousins has done this in the Philippines. As is the tradition, we usually stay with our parents. Not really to save (well that's part of it too..) but because of our attachment to our families. I was telling my friend the other day how strange it is that here in the province everyone seems to be surprised if one decides to move out from your parents. "Why are you moving out?" people immediately ask as if there is one controversial issue that made you leave your parents.
I am already 31 years old, my husband is 34. I don't know, but I really think real life should start for us now. We should start living our way through life, doing our own marketing, paying our own bills and making our own decisions. Although of course my Dad does not mind that we live with them. The extra mouths to feed was never an issue. He does not approve of us moving out. But we did it anyway. He just treats the issue with indifference now. I also think we can focus more on ourselves as a unit, a family.
Well, as my inspiration is going nowadays, I'm thinking Ikea... Using locally available furniture. I think its clean and simple.
We are scheduled to move in on February 6, before Chinese New Year.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Post Election Blues
It has been almost 10 days after the election.
dad won, overwhelmingly...
uncle won, top notcher...
cousin won, overwhelmingly...
cousin won, topnotcher too...
hard work... sun scorched skin...
campaign trail blaze... gone...
endless counting nights... gone...
Sipping iced tea... smoking a cigarette...
doing nothing but waiting...
a blog here... a blog there...
offends... pained words thrown like bombs...
a sorry here... an apology there...
all's well that ends well...
family is family...
love is love...
only time heals so...
be patient...
dad won, overwhelmingly...
uncle won, top notcher...
cousin won, overwhelmingly...
cousin won, topnotcher too...
hard work... sun scorched skin...
campaign trail blaze... gone...
endless counting nights... gone...
Sipping iced tea... smoking a cigarette...
doing nothing but waiting...
a blog here... a blog there...
offends... pained words thrown like bombs...
a sorry here... an apology there...
all's well that ends well...
family is family...
love is love...
only time heals so...
be patient...
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
The New RC Iriga Multiply Site
Being the incoming president of the Rotary Club of Iriga, or in rotary speak the PE (President Elect), is no joke. It is already tiring and I have not yet even started my rotary year. I will be attending the PE Training Seminar or PETS though on March 23 and 24 at the Dalampasigan Resort in Quezon. This covers the whole Rotary District 3820.
Anyway, I have just launched RC Iriga's Multiply Site. Visit us on the net at http://rciriga.multiply.com. Just drop by and say hello.
Anyway, I have just launched RC Iriga's Multiply Site. Visit us on the net at http://rciriga.multiply.com. Just drop by and say hello.
Friday, February 09, 2007
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Of the Military Parade Fiasco
We have already sent our formal letter of complaint to the "powers that be" in Naga City. I hope that is the end of it. I really do not want to hurt anyone but I believe our thoughts should be heard. Here is a copy of the letter we have sent to Naga City. Just read on...
18 September 2006
HON. ATTY. MILES RAQUID ARROYO
City Councilor and Over-All Chairman
Military Street Parade Competition
Naga City
THRU: MR. VICENTE S. AVILA
Project Director and Chairman
Secretariat and Rules and Regulations
Dear Madam,
Greetings of Peace and Prosperity!
First, we would like to extend our warm congratulations for a very successful Regional Penafrancia Fiesta Military Street Parade Competition. Through our hard work, our school was able to garner awards for our participating contingents, specifically: 1st Place for our WATC Unit, Second Place for our Sponsors, 5th Place for our ROTC Unit, 2nd Place for Most Disciplined ROTC Unit, and 4th Place for our University Band. We are truly grateful for this opportunity to show the whole Bicolandia what the University of Northeastern Philippines is capable of as an educational institution and molder of values.
At the onset, we would like you to know that we honor and believe in the integrity of the competition and we have no intention to besmirch the reputation of the most prestigious Military Parade Competition in the whole Bicol Region. However, it is with great regret that we write to you this letter to express our vehement protest over what transpired during the Military Parade last 15 September 2006 on the occasion of Naga City’s celebration of the 2006 Penafrancia Festivities. It is of great surprise to our Institution to find out that after the hard work and effort of our University Majorettes, we were not rated as a competing participant in your prestigious competition.
We would like to start our narration of facts by stating why we did not participate in the Category 1 Level of the Competition despite the entry of our Commandant as such. Our institution’s CAT Unit has always been categorized under Category 2. Annually, except last year, we have always submitted our entry under Category 2. Through our Commandant, we have expressed our desire to be included under Category 2. However, our request was verbally denied by Mr. Vicente Avila, telling us that the Order of Parade and the Invitations has already been sent out and the entry can no longer be changed. On this reason, we have decided not to participate in the Category 1 Level and instead concentrate our efforts in the Category 3 Level.
On the day of the Military Parade, our school representatives on stage were already at the Plaza Quezon Grand Stand by around 6:30 in the morning. The undersigned was able to arrive at around 7:00 AM. The parade has not even started yet when the undersigned was asked by Mr. Carlo Oliva, Jr. if we will participate in Category 1. He told the undersigned that they are currently checking and counter-checking the attendance of the participants in the competition. The undersigned expressly mentioned that our school will participate only in Category 3 and that we are truly not going to participate in Category 1. The undersigned believes Mr. Oliva immediately informed those on the field of this information through radio and Mr. Benny Decena, the official emcee, who was just beside him.
Later on, during the course of the parade, another young man in a yellow chaleco approached the undersigned and confirmed the information which she already relayed to Mr. Oliva. The undersigned confirmed the information and thought no more of the incident.
Much later, after the announcement of the winners, our school representatives felt the need to inquire as to the performance of our University Majorettes. Our school did not win. We admit that it came as a surprise to us, but the main reason why we inquired is for us to assess the veracity of our loss and in the process maybe improve ourselves by knowing our weaknesses.
With great surprise, we learned that the judges never gave us any grade. We were not rated. On further inquiry, we were told that the judges did not give us a score because we were not present in the supposedly “FIRST PASS” of our University Majorettes and University Band in Category 1. It truly perplexed us because our University Band, under the same circumstances, whose “FIRST PASS” was under Category 3, was given a rating and in fact won 4th place. We cannot attribute this to anything but to the negligence of the event organizers.
We cannot hide the fact that this had truly upset us. We came all the way from Iriga City. Our school spent hundreds of thousands of pesos to show our best performance in the competition. Our University Majorettes practiced day and night just to master their steps. There is so much commitment and dedication, not to mention sacrifice, just to give their best, yet all has come to naught due to the negligence of the organizing committee.
We would just like it to be clear that we are not belittling the efforts of other schools. We are sure that all participating schools had also sacrificed in the same manner, though maybe in varying degrees, and it is due to this fact that we believe that the organizers should exercise more prudence and justice in carrying out their functions.
To us, this competition, contrary to what Mr. Vicente Avila told us, is not the winning of a mere trophy or medal. It is the prestige and honor that this competition will bring to the University if we win. The organizers should realize that the participating schools spend, even without any cash reward associated with the competition, because they understand the exposure, honor and prestige that this competition entails.
Truly, it is pitiful that no less than the Project Director of this event thinks so lowly of his own competition. For us, this is THE COMPETITION for our ROTC, WATC, Sponsors, Band and Majorettes. We aim for this because it is a manifestation of the values of discipline, hard work, commitment and unity and we believe that winning this competition confirms that as an Institution we have indeed succeeded in imparting these values to our students.
We have always told our students that it is not important if we win, what is important is that they give their best to perform well in the competition. It would not have mattered to us if we lost fair and square, but we were not even rated so how could we have truly lost? It would have been a different story if we saw in the score sheets that we had low scores but fact is, and the undersigned has personally seen it, that the spaces for the scores were left blank.
Our Institution is not new to losing. For several years, we make ourselves contented with what has been awarded to us despite rumors of rigging in the competition. We just do our best to make sure that we play fair and square. We do not employ professional dancers to perform as majorettes. We do not employ professional musicians to perform as part of our Band. All the members of our contingent are bonafide students of our school.
We do not ask much, but an acknowledgement of the negligence of the organizers of the Military Parade. I believe that we deserve no less considering the hard work of our majorettes and the honor of our school. We are duty bound to exercise our right to voice out our protest and this is why we have decided to inform you of our complaint.
On our part, we believe that we have informed the organizing committee properly. This is even boldly confirmed by two facts: first, that our University Band was scored as it should have been and second, we were not announced as a contingent in the Category 1 Level. The announcer on stage immediately called on Participant No. 65 after Participant No. 63 in Category 1, which means that they are aware that we are not participating in Category 1. Clearly, our University Band was rated, but our University Majorettes were not. To our mind, what happened is a result of the negligence of the organizers, something that is truly surprising considering the number of people with radios, cellphones and other communication equipment on the site.
Furthermore, granting that we were suddenly classified as a non-competing participant, still we should have been rated for it is stated in the Guidelines, Paragraph No. 11 “NON COMPETING UNIT will also be rated for record and reference purposes only by the committee & judges”.
What we ask is more prudence and forethought, a recognition that this is a serious competition that should not be treated lightly. The organizers should not toy with the efforts of the participating schools because the schools participate with all their fervor, investing time, resources and people. We truly cannot understand how this could happen after all the years that the organizers were conducting this event. The undersigned has been watching this annual competition since she was in Grade School and the organizers are still the same people who are in charge of carrying out the event. We cannot understand how despite of all those years of experience, this unfair and unjust act can happen.
We have decided that as an institution, we shall honor your decision but this does not prevent us from making our thoughts on the matter heard by the general public. We believe, that like us, they deserve an explanation and a threshing out of all the issues that has cropped up in this competition.
The undersigned has always emphasized that it is not the trophies and medals that makes us winners but our hard work, dedication and commitment to do our best and play fair and square under all circumstances. We still believe in the competition, for in fact, we are once again starting to plan our participation in next year’s competition, but if these issues will not be discussed and once again swept under the rug, we are sorry to inform you that we will no longer participate in a competition that is riddled with doubt and dishonesty.
We believe that our participation in the competition have vested us with a right to be rated and this right has been violated by the negligence of the organizers. It is on this right that we anchor our protest. We also believe that this right should be upheld by a thorough investigation into what has transpired and that the persons responsible are sanctioned accordingly.
Furthermore, we call for an analysis and evaluation of the rules, regulation and guidelines governing the competition. We call for a more transparent and professional conduct of the event. We call for a threshing out of all the issues that has been swept under the rug throughout the years that this competition was conducted. We demand integrity, honesty and justice. We want change and we believe that as a participant in this prestigious competition we deserve no less.
With much gratitude, we look forward to a favorable resolution of the issues our school has raised here. Furthermore, we look forward to a better, much improved event next year.
Sincerely yours,
ATTY. REMELISA G. ALFELOR
University President
Copy Furnished:
HON. JESSE M. ROBREDO
Mayor, Naga City
HON. GERRY BORDADO
Vice-Mayor, Naga City
HON. MILES RAQUID-ARROYO
Councilor and Over-all Chairman
Regional Military Street Parade Competition
MR. VICENTE AVILA
Project Director
Regional Military Street Parade Competition
18 September 2006
HON. ATTY. MILES RAQUID ARROYO
City Councilor and Over-All Chairman
Military Street Parade Competition
Naga City
THRU: MR. VICENTE S. AVILA
Project Director and Chairman
Secretariat and Rules and Regulations
Dear Madam,
Greetings of Peace and Prosperity!
First, we would like to extend our warm congratulations for a very successful Regional Penafrancia Fiesta Military Street Parade Competition. Through our hard work, our school was able to garner awards for our participating contingents, specifically: 1st Place for our WATC Unit, Second Place for our Sponsors, 5th Place for our ROTC Unit, 2nd Place for Most Disciplined ROTC Unit, and 4th Place for our University Band. We are truly grateful for this opportunity to show the whole Bicolandia what the University of Northeastern Philippines is capable of as an educational institution and molder of values.
At the onset, we would like you to know that we honor and believe in the integrity of the competition and we have no intention to besmirch the reputation of the most prestigious Military Parade Competition in the whole Bicol Region. However, it is with great regret that we write to you this letter to express our vehement protest over what transpired during the Military Parade last 15 September 2006 on the occasion of Naga City’s celebration of the 2006 Penafrancia Festivities. It is of great surprise to our Institution to find out that after the hard work and effort of our University Majorettes, we were not rated as a competing participant in your prestigious competition.
We would like to start our narration of facts by stating why we did not participate in the Category 1 Level of the Competition despite the entry of our Commandant as such. Our institution’s CAT Unit has always been categorized under Category 2. Annually, except last year, we have always submitted our entry under Category 2. Through our Commandant, we have expressed our desire to be included under Category 2. However, our request was verbally denied by Mr. Vicente Avila, telling us that the Order of Parade and the Invitations has already been sent out and the entry can no longer be changed. On this reason, we have decided not to participate in the Category 1 Level and instead concentrate our efforts in the Category 3 Level.
On the day of the Military Parade, our school representatives on stage were already at the Plaza Quezon Grand Stand by around 6:30 in the morning. The undersigned was able to arrive at around 7:00 AM. The parade has not even started yet when the undersigned was asked by Mr. Carlo Oliva, Jr. if we will participate in Category 1. He told the undersigned that they are currently checking and counter-checking the attendance of the participants in the competition. The undersigned expressly mentioned that our school will participate only in Category 3 and that we are truly not going to participate in Category 1. The undersigned believes Mr. Oliva immediately informed those on the field of this information through radio and Mr. Benny Decena, the official emcee, who was just beside him.
Later on, during the course of the parade, another young man in a yellow chaleco approached the undersigned and confirmed the information which she already relayed to Mr. Oliva. The undersigned confirmed the information and thought no more of the incident.
Much later, after the announcement of the winners, our school representatives felt the need to inquire as to the performance of our University Majorettes. Our school did not win. We admit that it came as a surprise to us, but the main reason why we inquired is for us to assess the veracity of our loss and in the process maybe improve ourselves by knowing our weaknesses.
With great surprise, we learned that the judges never gave us any grade. We were not rated. On further inquiry, we were told that the judges did not give us a score because we were not present in the supposedly “FIRST PASS” of our University Majorettes and University Band in Category 1. It truly perplexed us because our University Band, under the same circumstances, whose “FIRST PASS” was under Category 3, was given a rating and in fact won 4th place. We cannot attribute this to anything but to the negligence of the event organizers.
We cannot hide the fact that this had truly upset us. We came all the way from Iriga City. Our school spent hundreds of thousands of pesos to show our best performance in the competition. Our University Majorettes practiced day and night just to master their steps. There is so much commitment and dedication, not to mention sacrifice, just to give their best, yet all has come to naught due to the negligence of the organizing committee.
We would just like it to be clear that we are not belittling the efforts of other schools. We are sure that all participating schools had also sacrificed in the same manner, though maybe in varying degrees, and it is due to this fact that we believe that the organizers should exercise more prudence and justice in carrying out their functions.
To us, this competition, contrary to what Mr. Vicente Avila told us, is not the winning of a mere trophy or medal. It is the prestige and honor that this competition will bring to the University if we win. The organizers should realize that the participating schools spend, even without any cash reward associated with the competition, because they understand the exposure, honor and prestige that this competition entails.
Truly, it is pitiful that no less than the Project Director of this event thinks so lowly of his own competition. For us, this is THE COMPETITION for our ROTC, WATC, Sponsors, Band and Majorettes. We aim for this because it is a manifestation of the values of discipline, hard work, commitment and unity and we believe that winning this competition confirms that as an Institution we have indeed succeeded in imparting these values to our students.
We have always told our students that it is not important if we win, what is important is that they give their best to perform well in the competition. It would not have mattered to us if we lost fair and square, but we were not even rated so how could we have truly lost? It would have been a different story if we saw in the score sheets that we had low scores but fact is, and the undersigned has personally seen it, that the spaces for the scores were left blank.
Our Institution is not new to losing. For several years, we make ourselves contented with what has been awarded to us despite rumors of rigging in the competition. We just do our best to make sure that we play fair and square. We do not employ professional dancers to perform as majorettes. We do not employ professional musicians to perform as part of our Band. All the members of our contingent are bonafide students of our school.
We do not ask much, but an acknowledgement of the negligence of the organizers of the Military Parade. I believe that we deserve no less considering the hard work of our majorettes and the honor of our school. We are duty bound to exercise our right to voice out our protest and this is why we have decided to inform you of our complaint.
On our part, we believe that we have informed the organizing committee properly. This is even boldly confirmed by two facts: first, that our University Band was scored as it should have been and second, we were not announced as a contingent in the Category 1 Level. The announcer on stage immediately called on Participant No. 65 after Participant No. 63 in Category 1, which means that they are aware that we are not participating in Category 1. Clearly, our University Band was rated, but our University Majorettes were not. To our mind, what happened is a result of the negligence of the organizers, something that is truly surprising considering the number of people with radios, cellphones and other communication equipment on the site.
Furthermore, granting that we were suddenly classified as a non-competing participant, still we should have been rated for it is stated in the Guidelines, Paragraph No. 11 “NON COMPETING UNIT will also be rated for record and reference purposes only by the committee & judges”.
What we ask is more prudence and forethought, a recognition that this is a serious competition that should not be treated lightly. The organizers should not toy with the efforts of the participating schools because the schools participate with all their fervor, investing time, resources and people. We truly cannot understand how this could happen after all the years that the organizers were conducting this event. The undersigned has been watching this annual competition since she was in Grade School and the organizers are still the same people who are in charge of carrying out the event. We cannot understand how despite of all those years of experience, this unfair and unjust act can happen.
We have decided that as an institution, we shall honor your decision but this does not prevent us from making our thoughts on the matter heard by the general public. We believe, that like us, they deserve an explanation and a threshing out of all the issues that has cropped up in this competition.
The undersigned has always emphasized that it is not the trophies and medals that makes us winners but our hard work, dedication and commitment to do our best and play fair and square under all circumstances. We still believe in the competition, for in fact, we are once again starting to plan our participation in next year’s competition, but if these issues will not be discussed and once again swept under the rug, we are sorry to inform you that we will no longer participate in a competition that is riddled with doubt and dishonesty.
We believe that our participation in the competition have vested us with a right to be rated and this right has been violated by the negligence of the organizers. It is on this right that we anchor our protest. We also believe that this right should be upheld by a thorough investigation into what has transpired and that the persons responsible are sanctioned accordingly.
Furthermore, we call for an analysis and evaluation of the rules, regulation and guidelines governing the competition. We call for a more transparent and professional conduct of the event. We call for a threshing out of all the issues that has been swept under the rug throughout the years that this competition was conducted. We demand integrity, honesty and justice. We want change and we believe that as a participant in this prestigious competition we deserve no less.
With much gratitude, we look forward to a favorable resolution of the issues our school has raised here. Furthermore, we look forward to a better, much improved event next year.
Sincerely yours,
ATTY. REMELISA G. ALFELOR
University President
Copy Furnished:
HON. JESSE M. ROBREDO
Mayor, Naga City
HON. GERRY BORDADO
Vice-Mayor, Naga City
HON. MILES RAQUID-ARROYO
Councilor and Over-all Chairman
Regional Military Street Parade Competition
MR. VICENTE AVILA
Project Director
Regional Military Street Parade Competition
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Peachy in Davao
I'm on a trip right now here in Davao to attend the AAHSPI Convention here at the Grand Men Seng Hotel. It's my first day here at its been great so far.
It is sooo difficult to go back to old standards after staying at the Makati Shangrila Hotel. In fairness though, Grand Men Seng is good enough. Maybe three stars out of five. I will give a more detailed review when I go back to Bicol. I am trying out their wifi service though, which is how I am posting this entry through. For this alone I think they're okay. Although a little expensive at P120 per hour, pwede na rin considering how cheap things are here in Davao City. Would you believe a P99 Lunch Buffet at Kuya Eds? Grabe talaga! I only had to pop P275.00 for my and Mr. Janolan's lunch. May bottomless iced tea na yon ha. Grabe talaga! When the waiter asked me what drink I would order I asked him how much is the softdrinks, he said P35.
Eh yong bottomless iced tea? P36 po. He answered. AS IF P1.00 MATTERED! Of course nag bottomless na ako. But of course for the P99 it was not Kamay Kainan or Dads. It was a 6 dish buffet with a salad/kilaw/inihaw station and choice out of three variants of gelatin. But an eat-all-you-can is still an eat-all-you-can. Okay na din! Not bad!
Well, my one hour might be over na so I'll just post some more tomorrow. Tah-tah!
It is sooo difficult to go back to old standards after staying at the Makati Shangrila Hotel. In fairness though, Grand Men Seng is good enough. Maybe three stars out of five. I will give a more detailed review when I go back to Bicol. I am trying out their wifi service though, which is how I am posting this entry through. For this alone I think they're okay. Although a little expensive at P120 per hour, pwede na rin considering how cheap things are here in Davao City. Would you believe a P99 Lunch Buffet at Kuya Eds? Grabe talaga! I only had to pop P275.00 for my and Mr. Janolan's lunch. May bottomless iced tea na yon ha. Grabe talaga! When the waiter asked me what drink I would order I asked him how much is the softdrinks, he said P35.
Eh yong bottomless iced tea? P36 po. He answered. AS IF P1.00 MATTERED! Of course nag bottomless na ako. But of course for the P99 it was not Kamay Kainan or Dads. It was a 6 dish buffet with a salad/kilaw/inihaw station and choice out of three variants of gelatin. But an eat-all-you-can is still an eat-all-you-can. Okay na din! Not bad!
Well, my one hour might be over na so I'll just post some more tomorrow. Tah-tah!
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Latest...
Its been sometime since I last posted. Been really busy but fulfilling. So many things had happened already.
Last week, we were all having a big high with the announcement of a big win by the UNEP Chorale in the recently concluded World Choir Games in Xiamen, China. The whole university was there when the whole chorale arrived. We prepared breakfast for them but we really could not resist a parade in the Iriga City commercial area just to show that Iriga through UNEP is really world class. So we did, sans the bureacratic permit, we paraded and all people big and small, of all genders, races and ages cheered them on. I was on the coaster accompanying the walking chorale. Hehe... Well, it was almost noon and ... you know...
They also did an instant courtesy call to the Mayor in the middle of Highway 1. Hahaha.... in the middle of the street amidst the traffic, ignoring the blaring tricycle horns and shouts from the disgruntled motorists. Aba, once in a lifetime lang ito. I do not even know when we could afford to send them abroad again.
The important thing is they brought something home and just to show the world that this little place in Bicol that we call home has talents that can conquer the world. Hah!
That same day, in the evening, the UNEP College Department also had their Induction and Acquaintance Party. Bon-Bon (Mr. Norberto Alfelor - the USG Moderator) decided to get me as this year's Guest Speaker. Declining at first, I thought, it would be a great opportunity to bond with the students. To sweeten the deal, Bon-Bon even invited my favorite local band (second to Tanikala that is) Legalize Cannabis.
Now, I really had a problem about this. I told Bon-Bon to just use the name Legalize because I cannot deal with questions on why I allowed such a band with such a name in this University. I may even be asked, am I of the same frame of mind and advocacy as the name of the band suggests? Well, no. Sorry, I really just like their music. I mean, just because some people like Marilyn Manson's music does not make them cross-dressing punkistas di ba. I know of some people who loved Iron Maiden (in my college days) but were quite decent people making straight unos and becoming University Scholars (in U.P. Diliman). I think one of them is a Medical Doctor now.
Going back, I had so much fun. I forgot I am the President of the University. I was stompin like crazy with the kids. I was so amazed with the students. Wala pang nainom yon ha, nag mo-mosh na! Oh well, I don't know. But with the high level of security imposed (gate pass for students to avoid gate crashers and super frisking of students before they enter the University Gate) I don't think any student was able to get in alcoholic beverages. But of course, they could always have smuggled it in with their food boxes. Well, if ever they did it still must have been of such small quantities that it still would not give the same effect as I saw on the students that night. Oh I don't know. Who cares anyway, its done.
But the best thing is, the students had fun. I regretted nga that we had to cut the mini concert short by declaring lights on at 1:00 am. The students had classes the next day and we did not want them to go home wasted. If it was only up to me, I would have let them stay till the sun started to rise in the morning. But, I had to be responsible, after all, I am indeed responsible for the lives of this young adults while they're here in the University. It's difficult to strike a balance between what is reasonable and what is "abuso". But it had to be done. I just promised the kids that I'll throw a party for them at Tan-aw one of these days with of course, Legalize.
The most of this week I spent in Manila helping my cousin prepare for her wedding, attend a bridal shower and also do some errands. It is truly hectic but at least I would get to see my 38 year old cousin get married, sa wakas. I really hope things go well.
That's all for now. As for me, I will just continue doing what is right and I know as sure as the sun will rise tomorrow, God will do the rest. :-)
Last week, we were all having a big high with the announcement of a big win by the UNEP Chorale in the recently concluded World Choir Games in Xiamen, China. The whole university was there when the whole chorale arrived. We prepared breakfast for them but we really could not resist a parade in the Iriga City commercial area just to show that Iriga through UNEP is really world class. So we did, sans the bureacratic permit, we paraded and all people big and small, of all genders, races and ages cheered them on. I was on the coaster accompanying the walking chorale. Hehe... Well, it was almost noon and ... you know...
They also did an instant courtesy call to the Mayor in the middle of Highway 1. Hahaha.... in the middle of the street amidst the traffic, ignoring the blaring tricycle horns and shouts from the disgruntled motorists. Aba, once in a lifetime lang ito. I do not even know when we could afford to send them abroad again.
The important thing is they brought something home and just to show the world that this little place in Bicol that we call home has talents that can conquer the world. Hah!
That same day, in the evening, the UNEP College Department also had their Induction and Acquaintance Party. Bon-Bon (Mr. Norberto Alfelor - the USG Moderator) decided to get me as this year's Guest Speaker. Declining at first, I thought, it would be a great opportunity to bond with the students. To sweeten the deal, Bon-Bon even invited my favorite local band (second to Tanikala that is) Legalize Cannabis.
Now, I really had a problem about this. I told Bon-Bon to just use the name Legalize because I cannot deal with questions on why I allowed such a band with such a name in this University. I may even be asked, am I of the same frame of mind and advocacy as the name of the band suggests? Well, no. Sorry, I really just like their music. I mean, just because some people like Marilyn Manson's music does not make them cross-dressing punkistas di ba. I know of some people who loved Iron Maiden (in my college days) but were quite decent people making straight unos and becoming University Scholars (in U.P. Diliman). I think one of them is a Medical Doctor now.
Going back, I had so much fun. I forgot I am the President of the University. I was stompin like crazy with the kids. I was so amazed with the students. Wala pang nainom yon ha, nag mo-mosh na! Oh well, I don't know. But with the high level of security imposed (gate pass for students to avoid gate crashers and super frisking of students before they enter the University Gate) I don't think any student was able to get in alcoholic beverages. But of course, they could always have smuggled it in with their food boxes. Well, if ever they did it still must have been of such small quantities that it still would not give the same effect as I saw on the students that night. Oh I don't know. Who cares anyway, its done.
But the best thing is, the students had fun. I regretted nga that we had to cut the mini concert short by declaring lights on at 1:00 am. The students had classes the next day and we did not want them to go home wasted. If it was only up to me, I would have let them stay till the sun started to rise in the morning. But, I had to be responsible, after all, I am indeed responsible for the lives of this young adults while they're here in the University. It's difficult to strike a balance between what is reasonable and what is "abuso". But it had to be done. I just promised the kids that I'll throw a party for them at Tan-aw one of these days with of course, Legalize.
The most of this week I spent in Manila helping my cousin prepare for her wedding, attend a bridal shower and also do some errands. It is truly hectic but at least I would get to see my 38 year old cousin get married, sa wakas. I really hope things go well.
That's all for now. As for me, I will just continue doing what is right and I know as sure as the sun will rise tomorrow, God will do the rest. :-)
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
just a little something to think about
| Your Values Profile |
 Loyalty: You value loyalty a fair amount. You're loyal to your friends... to a point. But if they cross you, you will reconsider your loyalties. Staying true to others is important to you, but you also stay true to yourself. Honesty: You value honesty a fair amount. You're honest when you can be, but you aren't a stickler for it. If a little white lie will make a situation more comfortable, you'll go for it. In the end, you mostly care about "situational integrity." Generosity: You don't really value generosity. Your needs always come first, no matter what. And you'll possibly help someone else out... But only if it helps you in return. Humility: You value humility a fair amount. You tend to be an easy going, humble person. But occasionally your ego takes over. You have a slight competitive streak - and the need to be the best. Tolerance: You value tolerance highly. Not only do you enjoy the company of those very different from you... You do all that you can to seek it out interesting and unique friends. You think there are many truths in life, and you're open to many of them. |
Monday, July 10, 2006
| Your Career Type: Social |
 You are helpful, friendly, and trustworthy. Your talents lie in teaching, nursing, giving information, and solving social problems. You would make an excellent: Counselor - Dental Hygienist - Librarian Nurse - Parole Officer - Personal Trainer Physical Therapist - Social Worker - Teacher The worst career options for your are realistic careers, like truck driver or farmer. |
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
My Birthday
| Your Birthdate: June 22 |
 You tend to be understated and under appreciated. You have a hidden force to do amazing things, doing them your own way. People may see you as strange and shy, but they know little. Your unconventional ways have more power than they (and even you) know. Your strength: Standing up for what you know is true Your weakness: You tend to be picky and rigid Your power color: Silver Your power symbol: Square Your power month: April |
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