K's Choice Time

Halloween 2010

2010-11-02T02:37:00.020+08:00

This year happened to be Joaquin and my first Halloween together.So we decided tomake it a little special yet quiet at the same time. It ended being almost a whole weekevent. It started off with last weekend at Islands of Adventure.

Joaquin and I first headed off with a quick run through of the park before hitting what we really came t

here for: Harry Potter. So, we went on all the big time rides.

There was one ride that we went on that got Joaquin totally soaked!

We saw the different themes ranging from marvel comics,old school comics, old cartoons, Jurassic Park, and even Dr. Suess.

We went for the new Harry Potter section of the park. It was absolutely fabulous! We tried Butterbeer,

visited Hogwarts,

took pictures next to the Hogwarts express,

and rode the dualing dragon 6 times. They even had Harry Potter's book of Monsters!

A week later, we started Halloween on Saturday night. Joaquin and I dressed up for once, and I couldn't believe that I was able to convince Joaquin to go along with it. I was Jill Valentine and Joaquin was my accessory: a Resident Evil Zombie.

The next day, actual Halloween, we had to work, so couldn't fully enjoy the festivities. But we did discover....Jasmine can dance!

Connecticut

2010-08-17T20:22:00.001+08:00

I took a few days off of work to visit my best friend, Shellybean. It was a much needed vacation especially since the last time I took one was New Mexico, then the time before that our honeymoon.
I am definitely a firm believer in vacations. I feel as though I am quite a stressed out person even if my job is simple now. I guess it might be that nothing has stopped since I even got back home from the philippines. First it was the bankruptcy, then wedding, then working until almost death, and now moving with added stress. And even though I pretty much relaxed and helped shell move her things, I was perfectly content.
The weather was fabulously refreshing and the people acted as though I never left. It was like I was home again. We went to this fancy restaurant called the Terry Lodge, owned by an iron chef and I can honestly say it was the best food in my entire life. And if you have looked at me recently, you know that I have eaten a LOT in my life time. Every bite was a taste of heaven, no matter what I ate or what I ate from someone else's plate. I had quail and they even de-boned the rib cage so it was more like cutting into a piece of steak. Just pure meat. And for desert, a peach cobbler with cinnamon gelato on top. Delightful!
But things also have changed on my hometown. People grew up, buildings have been reconstructed or been replaced. Our local "mom and pop's" became defeated by big corporations. But the people and their personalities have never changed. Or maybe that could be just me. And I loved every minute of it.

WIll we be moving?

2010-08-01T23:01:00.004+08:00

Well, there have been a lot of changes going on in our lives. The first major change is that we both now work from home. It was a little weird at first, and I am finding myself to be even more busy then I was before. At least going to work all day in an office meant that you only had to worry about things to do during your time after work and on the weekends. Now I have things to worry about like "today I am going to the gym, then go swimming, shower, start working, first break lunch, work again, lunch break=maybe laundry?, work again, second break dinner, work again, off at 9 and play WoW until 12pm. Before it was go to work then....start driving home and maybe buy groceries to make dinner. Simple and easy. On the up side of the whole thing, we have Tues and Saturdays off. At first, I thought that I wouldn't like it. But then I realize that I have 2 "Fridays" a week :)

The other big change is that we are having trouble with our tenant and it looks like she will have to leave. So we are up in the air as to what to do next. And I am sure that we will have to remodel the whole place because of things that we have seen done over the past year. On the bright side, maybe Joaquin and I will be able to start our lives together.

I also realize that posting in a blog is not exactly the therapeutic outlet of journaling that may be best for me. Too many eyes are watching, and I believe that if I am to post my life story I might have to find another outlet. This plays in a big part as to why you don't see me post in it as much anymore. So, I apologize if I don't post in here as often as a lot of other people would like.

New Mexico!

2010-07-11T22:22:00.016+08:00

In the beginning of June, we went to visit my mother-in-law, Pamcakes at her cozy home in New Mexico. It's such a beautiful state, full of all my favorite things to do. I love the decorations in the little shops, and even out in the streets.
We ate this delicious quaint place called Church Street Cafe in Albuquerque. There is nothing like chili with your omlette. The staff and customer service was excellent, and I recommend anyone who is visiting New Mexico to eat there.

On the back

porch is a waterfall and a grape vineyard. It was a relaxing spot to enjoy a New Mexico style breakfast.

Inside the cafe was an authentic Kiva. I was imagining what it would like to have something like that in

our house. It certainly would make great

conversation.

I LOVED the metal pieces of decorations on the wall. I thought they were a very interesting addition to th

e wall and it reminded me of my own backyard at home. I think mostly because we have one on our wall at our poolside. I really wanted this dachshund and after shopping around, found only the magnet version. Which, I promptly bought two. One for my parents house, and one for our future home.

We also visited many other little villages. Everyone of them had it's own unique style and feel to it. One village was dedicated to everything that I love: Yoga, Spa, and everything natural. My kind of place! I can picture myself learning knew things for my own business, Dragon's Magic.

Here in Florida, I am so used to the humidity and the green flora. It was quite an experience to look out your window and see the desert. It was like an old western (or maybe a new one). But I would hate to get stuck out there. Another good thing, was that my hair was looking absolutely awesome! I don't think it even knows what it's like to be exposed to a non-humid climate.

I could picture myself with a Ranch and a few horses, a jeep wrangler for transportation, and a little off roading on the side.

The rock formations are beautiful and we would NEVER have to mow the

lawn.

I guess the update?

2010-06-13T04:46:00.003+08:00

I didn't even realize that I haven't written in here since over a year ago. I really thought that I have written in here for the Wedding in January. So...for those of you who only know me by blog, Joaquin and I officially tied the knot on January 30, 2010.

It was a fabulous wedding and all of our friends and family attended. It was quite stressful and I couldnt bring myself to take a moment to write in this blog.

SInce last may....let me see...I worked as an office manager for a doctor's office in Pompano. I learned a lot from my position but it proved to be even more stressful than I could ever have imagined. On top of it, I had the wedding to deal with.

Right now, I no longer work for this place. Joaquin also passed the NCLEX (I have to take mine before July 20) and I am so proud of him. We both obtained positions as health coaches to help people quit smoking. It sound fabulous to me, and it still goes along the same lines as our nursing career.

Well, i will continue this another time, but I have to get my dad at work :)

I've seen way better days

2009-05-27T03:32:00.002+08:00

I have to admit, Im starting to hit a depression spill again. Must be my time of month. A combination of hormones, thunder storms and a series of unfortunate events. I am depressed that I am having a hard time finding a job, and it's hard for most people to have sympathy. I might have only been looking for 1.5 months, but they have been looking for a year.

I am wondering if this delay in my life is some sort of sign that I need to wait for better things. Or...there is just no such thing as fate, and everyone is right...the economy has failed.

On the bright side, I am still in awe that I am finally home. Living in the Philippines was so surreal, and now it's over.

At this point in my life, I am not sure what I want. I still have dreams of becoming a vet and curing cancer through the use of saving God's creatures big and small...but it seems so far away now. And I am thinking that I may have to be a nurse afterall...for the rest of my life...

It seems only right that I cant be what I have truly always wanted. Why would I be one of the lucky ones? One of the lucky 10%? At the rate Im going, things that I want will just remain a dream, and I will remain what I have always hated...a follower. Following a plan someone else has written.

Secrets to International Flying

2009-04-16T16:33:00.003+08:00

For those of you who do not know, I left for the States today. Right now I am typing this in Taipei. A lot of things were happening in my life, and I had to go home unexpectedly. But since I have a 9 hour (actually 7.5 hour since my first leg left an hour and a half late)I figured I should share a few secrets about international flying.

First airport boredom:
Make use of everything free!
1. Free WiFi
2. Free restrooms (usually very clean or very weird)

Then, make use of things that no one really knows about. Check out the lounges. Usually for as little as $10 you can spend your boring 8 hour layover in a place where they offer sleeping amenities, a shower, more wifi, all you can eat gourmet food, and sometimes a complimentary massage.

Last, fill your time with things you wouldnt normally do at home (well if you weren't me). Check out any airport spas, or the people giving a foot massage. You never know what you may find.

Do NOT buy duty free. I know, it sounds sooooooo glamorous. Oooh, no taxes...blah blah. But have you noticed, that the prices are even more expensive than if you were to pay taxes in the first place? Just a thought.

For the plane itself:
1. Again, take advantage of the FREE stuff. Yes, people already know that you get a free soda...well i say BOO to that. Go for the FREE cocktails! Yay! Gin and tonics, bloody mary's, a saki, red wine, white wine, and pretty much any good beer. Don't you think your $650 one way ticket should pay for something besides the smiles and food? It's not just first class who gets booze.
2. Go vegetarian for just the flight, even if you are not. Before I fly, i get to choose 2 things: my seat and my food preference. The seat is a given, why not get a seat that I like? But the food, a lot of people don't know better, and my fellow vegetarians will suffer with that chicken on their plate. And not only is my meal vegetarian, its INDIAN vegetarian. There are many advantages at following these processes. For one, it's free INDIAN food :) For another, I get my food before anyone else, which they verify the minute I get on the plane and ask me what kind of drink I may want (I got a gin and tonic just because I can).

So far, this was my flight, well the food part. I get on the plane and sit down. 5 minutes later, the flight attendant approaches me and verifies that I am indeed Ms. Murry. She asks what kind of drink do I want, and I'm thinking "what the hell". So I say "what do you have for cocktails?" At this point, I was willing to even pay for it if I have to. She tells me I basically can have whatever I want, and its free.
Later, (about 15 min after take off), you hear the flight attendants moving around preparing the food. Then out she comes with my food, and my food ONLY. She places it at my tray, and the woman sitting next to me stares at it practically drooling. Inside is couscus, chick peas with a touch of cinnamon, tomato curry, a cucumber potato salad, and some desert which I am sure is not vegetarian but oh well. Then the woman next to me finally gets her meal after 10 min. At this point, I already finished my salad. She had ordered the chicken and it looked just as plain and tasteless as all my previous international flying mistakes. She looked somber and quite disappointment. Just the reaction from other people makes this all worth while.
With my meal I had a gin and tonic, a coke (the gin was a bit strong), a water (came already with the meal), and a hot tea. I was actually contemplating if I should ask for another drink because my curried meal was a bit spicy...

***********UPDATE******************

I saved the names of my meals:
Paneer Lebabdar

Saffron Quinoa with Dried fruits and paneer cheese.

In Loving Memory of Apollo Murry and Phoebe Murry

2009-04-02T06:10:00.003+08:00

The only thing I have good to talk about is that Joaquin and I have decided February 6, 2010 in Florida will be our wedding date.

But with all of the negative energy surrounding us at the moment, its hard to stay focused. The wedding date is the only thing I have that keeps me from completely falling apart.

I thought that graduating would have been the most eventful thing in my life this year (besides the proposal in January), but it seems to barely make a ripple in my frame of attention.

I pray to God everyday that things will finally be better when I go home. Maybe I can make things right.

For those of you who don't know:
1. Joaquin had a emergency surgery (not sure if I was supposed to say anything, but people should know) on Monday night. So this has been a bit stressful on both of us. I think I have been playing my part as his nurse and future wife very well. No need for details.

2. My dog Apollo, 10 years old, was put to sleep in the past week. I am not sure exactly what day. I am not sure I want to know what day. In all honestly, its hitting me pretty hard. The more I think about it, the more I cry, so I play world of warcraft. It seems to help. But I just cant help but think, since I left the states two years ago, it was the last time I saw Phoebe and Apollo. And when I left that time, I had a horrible gut feeling it would be my last. I am just really sorry I could not be there for ANYONE in the past two years. Just a parasite halfway across the world.

Christmas Cards and Late Night Hospitals

2009-01-13T16:58:00.005+08:00

Take Note: Today is January 13, 2009

We just received a BUNCH of Christmas cards today. It would seem, this country has been holding out on us. Some were sent as early as 10 days before Christmas. 2 arrived with a mysterious stamp on it saying: Recieved in this Condition Flap with tape (one of them didn't even have tape on it). We are automatically assuming that maybe the post office expected something other then cards in those envelopes...HA! Fooled the government again.

Last week, we went through 6 nights of hell on our 11-7 shift. We had the ER shift, but nothing real interesting. One stab victim and an insecticide ingestion. It's sad really to go into the details. But as students, in the middle of nowhere, it was quite terrible. Insects only bit us on our legs, and they REALLY bit us. It got to the point, we started bringing insect repellent.
In this town we were in, all the eateries, fast food joints, and food stands closed at 9 pm and didn't open until the morning. Then we found a place, hidden behind the hospital, open basically 24 hours. Grrrrr.
Everyone, including the staff nurses slept. Only Joaquin and I were left awake...all night long...living the days like zombies. I busied myself playing video games on my phone and watching movies on my palm. I can't sleep in the hallway of the ER room. I have to had it to Filipinos, they really can sleep ANYWHERE and in any postion.

Well, all we can do is have fun no matter where we are. Our next duty will be a straight 6 days of Operating Room. I am pretty excited. I love the OR.

Happy New Year and I am sick again

2008-12-30T20:54:00.003+08:00

Well, tomorrow is New Year's Eve and I am sick with pneumonia again. So I can't even have a glass of wine to celebrate the occasion. Well, Joaquin bought some sparklers, and that is good enough for me.
I went to the doctor the one that I always go to here. Sad enough, he said that I frequent his hospital way too much and we have to do something else besides my usual western medicine. On top of the medicine cabinet that he provided for me, he sticks two silver pins in my ear without even giving me a proper warning, and tells me that I have to keep it in there for 10 days (acupuncture). And believe me, I am not exactly sitting around completely painless. He put one on the top part of me ear, as if I got a piercing. Supposedly this one is for my allergic reaction to the Philippines. And the other one in my inner ear which is to make my lungs stronger. This goes along with a triple times a day dose of Oolong tea with ginger. After 10 days, I have to get two more pins put in the other side. Sigh.
I really tried to prevent this. The minute I started to cough 3 weeks ago, I started drinking the tea with ginger and eating massive amounts of oranges. Then I ran out, and I thought I would be ok. I was so wrong. Maybe this method will cure me for good.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T10:52:00.002+08:00

Well, since Christmas is not yet over for us, I won't post about it yet. I do have to say that I had a really good birthday. I wanted it to be real quiet. I don't want people making a big deal about it, and I am already old. Joaquin took me to a romantic restaurant and we really enjoyed ourselves. We even got a videoke machine and we sang in our apartment. I am sure that our neighbors are really annoyed with us because they work the night shift and we were singing together during the day. I know that it sounds corny, but we love to sing now. Too bad, people in the states don't do videoke like here in the Philippines. It really is a lot of fun, especially when you know everyone else sings just as bad as you.

The true meaning of Christmas

2008-12-18T19:14:00.002+08:00

You never really think about the true meaning of Christmas until you know you need to put aside all the presents and the trees. Then you stop going to the mall, and deal with the hustle of the Christmas rush. The traffic gets even worse even though more people walk than drive. So you give up on the whole ordeal, and you just want to stay home. Then you get to missing your family. You see all the children walking hand-in-hand with their parents. Even when they get yelled at, you secretly wish you could do that (not the yelling, but the being together part). Maybe the parents are yelling at them because they have no money, and the kids are begging for that new toy. And the parents realize that they need to work extra hard for those toys. But nothing beats the joy on their child's face when they get what they want.
People may mistake that for the true meaning of Christmas: getting what they want. But to a parent, the true meaning is that tiny bit of joy that they are able to provide even if it is for a split second a year.
So for all of you that have forgotten, the true meaning of Christmas. Brace yourself for this. Christmas: mass and Christ. The birth of Christ happened on some day, and people are even arguing it happened some time in the summer. The presents symbolizes the gifts given by the wise men, which actually never arrived until January 6. Technically, we shouldn't even open presents until then. The star on the tree is what they followed to find Jesus Christ.
Just like your birthday, and mine, we celebrate Christmas to celebrate a birth. And if it's not our own, then presents shouldn't even be an option. But the presents are there to make the end of the year a whole lot more special.
This year, I just wish everyone else to be happy. I hope that they get everything that they dreamed. I wish for our economy to get better. I wish for my dad's business to explode with exponential amounts of clients. I want my mom to take many vacations and to take a break from her hectic life. I wish for Kate to find the perfect job and maybe another xbox. I hope that Jesse and Yavon get a year full of wonderful vacations and maybe a brand new grill. I want Mom Kline to finally find that dream home that she has been secretly wanting her whole life. I really hope that the Jeff can finally settle himself and feel at ease. Maybe I can finally meet Nadia, and Rinah and Sky will welcome me with open arms. And for Joaquin, I want him to find everything he has hoped for in life, and find that inner peace (I mean this sincerely).
From me and Joaquin (my papabear), Merry Christmas to all and keep peace in your hearts.

Isolated Beaches

2008-11-01T21:08:00.009+08:00

We started our semester break only a few days ago. We are only getting 10 days off, so if any of you are thinking we could of come home...impossible. We are still hanging on. We went to an isolated beach as an over night trip and we thoroughly enjoyed it. We were there this past January and we really enjoyed it then. And it's great to be able to hang out with our friends once again (we are not in the same sections anymore).
The girls basically laid out on the beach, trying NOT to get dark (with a crap load of sunblock), the guys ran around trying to kill a chicken and shoot guns at rocks. All I can say is that I am SOOO glad I am vegetarian. Even though, I probably would have at least caught the chicken. The first guy tried to shoot the chicken, and missed (20 pesos down the drain). Then they thought it would be clever to run after it with a stick. Eventually they gave up, after they became all sweaty. Wouldn't it have been easier, to catch the chicken with a fishing net (it was hanging really close to us), then taking care of business. We eventually just ate REALLY GIANT seafood.

We also discovered this weird looking crab. It swims like a turtle. If you put it on it's back, it immediately flips over using it's tail.

So all we did, was basically get drunk. Ok, I hate this new blogger format, so I am just going to post a bunch of pics...

Saturday Afternoon

2008-10-19T14:22:00.002+08:00

Well, it's the end of the semester, and it has been really tough. The actual hands on work was the easy part, but the lecture was hard. And it wasn't hard in a sense of academics, more of terror teachers who purposely want you to fail. He would tell you that there is a quiz in one subject for the next day, then it would be a quiz on something totally different. It is absolutely impossible to keep up with it.
To occupy myself from the fact that I have not seen my family in over a year, I went ahead and started my own business. Basically, selling my own homemade organic spa products. I actually went and bought things like beeswax, almond oil, patchouli, virgin coconut oil, etc... Things came out really great and I have quite a business amongst my classmates and teachers. I am still trying to think of ways to expand. I even have my own website: www.saturdayafternoon.org
Of course, I am having my doubts. I am having problems with packaging. And majority of those problems can be solved when I go back home to the states. It has not really been that easy, but I like using my extra time in doing things like this.

Money

2008-09-12T20:11:00.002+08:00

Was there ever a time where money was just a word and people had no idea what it meant? When money did not equal pain and suffering. Money is something that affects us all but to what extent? Yes, it's reality, but do we need a word to strike fear into our hearts? There are homeless animals, living in shelters, and just by a click of my finger they get .6 bowls of food. Yet, I still can not do that every day. So does that make me a bad person? Even when it's free, I can not give. Because of the time it will cause for me to check my email, and click on that purple little box.

And everyday a person argues about money and how we don't have any. But what happened to "it's only family that matters"? I still believe in that. It is only family. Right now I have 20 pesos to my name. I think I can buy 1 yakult. It doesn't really matter. I should be giving that 20 pesos to a homeless person on the street. Why? Because a year from now I will have everything, yet that homeless person still has nothing. Not even family. Without love, without family, you will always have nothing.

Many years ago, I met a woman in the States. She was an elderly woman coming into my father's clinic. She had no children or brothers and sisters. She truely had (maybe still has) nothing. She was about 85 years old and lived with a caretaker. When I looked into her eyes, and did her assessment, I saw in them the loneliness. I myself felt fear. Fear of the unknown and the emptiness. I didn't want to even talk to her too much more. I was thinking about my family and how lucky I am. That this will never happen to me...

But we should watch ourselves, because it can happen to anyone. And that is the point where no matter how much money you have, it only becomes a word.

Caution! Watch on your own risk, may be boring.

2008-09-04T06:39:00.003+08:00

Our group had to make a movie for psych on type B Personalities. Her is wok and my part.

An Unblissful, yet again cell phone story.

2008-08-25T13:17:00.003+08:00

I told myself that I should wait to post this story, especially after all the blog entries I wrote about my Philippine love (don't worry, it still has not changed). I sent this to the local newspaper and blog websites.
_________________________________________________________
Hello. I am a foreigner currently attending UB for nursing. I am already a 4th year student so I am not exactly new to this country. I try to keep a low profile and I keep a lot of Filipino friends. I also look very Filipino, but my Tagalog is not very good. I have my Filipino friends to get me by and help me when I need to buy things. And no offense to anyone, but it's hard to get a good deal as a foreigner. But that is not the reason for my story.
I have maintained the same cell phone for about 3 years now. Finally it gave up on me and I decided to just buy a new one. I have an extra one for emergencies and it is quite a reliable phone, but it does not have any features of technology e.g. camera, bluetooth. My old cell phone had every feature I could desire, personally.
I am extremely on budget so I asked around from my friends where I can buy a cheap phone. My friend said that she knew someone on General Luna. Against my better judgement, I thought “well what are the chances that I would get screwed”. This was a big “tatanga” for me. We went to the spot on General Luna, near the school where all these people were celling the cell phones. Her friend, unfortunately, was not there, and I was in quite a hurry for a phone. I had brought my old cell phone and my emergency phone as trade ins because I knew that I could not make much “tawad”.
We looked up and down the street, and a woman was selling a Nokia 5200 for 3500. I was on budget for 2500, so I tried to trade in my old phone. Ironically (you will realize later why), she would not take my old broken phone but she would take my trusty emergency nokia. Like a sucker, I took the deal, gave my phone, and paid 2300 pesos. I came home, extremely excited to fool around with my new phone with MP3 features, mini cards and all. I have never had anything like this and I barely treat myself to anything besides some clothes at the “ukay-ukay”. I did notice, however, that my Globe sim icon was not showing up, but the network was visible. And the network seemed to be terrible. I assumed it was my house, because even before my network wasn't that good, and I could live without the Globe icon. I charged my phone, then unplugged it just before I went to bed. I know that the quality of a Nokia battery is absolutely impeccable so I shouldn't need to charge it at least a few days (with constant MP3 use).
I woke up in the morning to an empty battery. I thought to myself, “this is strange, she gave me a brand new battery.” The phone would not even stay on. So I plugged it in, and it said it was charging. I waited, removed the charger, and it said full battery. All of a sudden, the phone claimed that the battery was empty and it turned off on me again. I knew that it had to be the phone. Well the woman had given me a 3 day warranty, and I asked another Filipino friend to join me to either get the phone fixed or make a trade.
When we got there, the woman was absent. There was a young man in the stall next to her, and he asked what was the problem. We explained the situation and he wanted to make a trade. The trades did have anything close to the phone that I had just purchased. And if I wanted those features, I would have to pay more. Now, this does not make any sense. I should receive something at least really close to equal in return. The phones he wanted to trade me, did not even have bluetooth, and that was my number one priority at the time. I then told him to just give me back my trade in, and the money I paid since they can not help me. Apparently, it was sold right away, like a thief in the night. I asked the young man when the woman would be back, and he informed me that she would be back the next day. I told him (which I think was my downfall) that I would return the next day.
After that, I went to a reputable cell phone repair shop because I figured if I can at least get this fixed I won't go through so much trouble. The man told me that the phone was completely unfix able. That the phone was taken from China, and the inside was burnt so no one would know and the phone will always turn off. There was nothing wrong with the battery or the electrical wiring inside. It simply would never work. Then he fixed my other broken phone for 100 pesos, and that is when an American (myself) will say “well isn't that a kick in the ass”.
The next day, absolutely furious, and this time with 2 Filipino friends, we marched back to the woman's shop. That is when I realized how “tanga” I really was and I lost this battle the minute I gave up my money. The woman's shop was completely boarded up and closed for business. The same “young man” from the stall next door claimed that he never knew her and that no one had any idea who she was. He is absolutely terrible at lying, because who works next to someone, is willing to do business for them (as in try to trade in a downgraded phone to me) but not know who they are?
I did not cry. I just stood there and thought to my self “siang”. I spent my budgeted money, so I only could eat what little food I had at my house, and basically walk everywhere until my next allowance. Now I can mention the ironic part. She would not buy my broken phone, when she just sold me a broken phone. She could have easily sold my broken phone to any other fool just like myself.
We tried to go the police, but they were not available. All we could do was file a complaint with the Barangay Captain. Maybe he did something, but I will not know. I gave up on it, and spent yet another budgeted allowance on a brand new 1 year warranty phone and am extremely happy, even though I am hungry.
Now I am not proud of what I am about to tell you. I told a friend of mine to go back there and try to sell the phone back to them but go to different stalls. Maybe I can get some money back. If they did it to me, I can try to do it right back. But I am sure God saw through my ill intentions, and to no avail, he could not sell it. They told him that they all know that serial number...
I am writing this , to inform you and whoever reads this of what goes on right under our nose. And I know that readers will think “well she is foreign, and what was she doing buying from there?” But the big question is how can we allow people to sell things there? How can we allow people to get screwed and we just call them “tanga”? And believe me, they didn't see a foreigner buying the phone. They saw Filipinos. This is just a major insult to your country (and I consider mine as well) and homeland. I am just hoping that enough people might read this and do something about it. Even if people never buy from them, at least my “tanga”ness was not sacrificed in vain. And like I said in the beginning, I knew my instincts said no but my heart said to give them a chance. They only proved that I need to always listen to my instincts.
_______________________________
The moral of the story is when you know it's wrong...it's wrong.

Please don't criticize me because of my Tagalog spelling, that's really annoying hehe.

A Real Update

2008-07-26T21:03:00.001+08:00

As a bit of an update on our life, Joaquin delivered his first baby last week. He was so excited and he got a Nulligravida (medical term for first time mother). Better for him (experience wise) not so good for her. So the baby took a while to come out (as in 6 hours from the start of labor) and he was basically the person who REALLY delivered the baby. I was and still am so proud of him. I delivered my first baby over the summer, but I was only an Assist nurse. That basically means I am like the typewriting person in the court room. No real action, just paper work. And my baby's mother was already on her 4th child, so I barely got to see the baby come out (I was too busy writing down the stupid time). So, I am looking forward to when it is my turn.

They have been sending us to all different parts of the Philippines. Some parts are REAL hot, and you just want to sit in your room with two fans on you and pray that you get the afternoon or night shift. And other parts are REAL cold, and you still just want to sit in your room curled in a blanket and sleep. But I find it to be a good travel experience. During our off time, we visit local rivers, go hiking, go to the local beach or just shop at real cheap stores because we are students on budget.

Besides my new found vegetarianism since January, I have also started to do yoga every Sunday for exercise. And YES it is exercise with a full on workout. It is not the "Pilate" kind, it's called Hatha Yoga. It concentrates more on stress relief and different positions. But just holding those positions are enough to make your muscles scream the next day. My abs ARE getting stronger (this is really for my mother and Lola who think yoga does not work on my abs). I have also been practicing doing chin ups...well, not really, I pretty much just hang there for about 10 seconds. At first it was just 5, but now its 10 and i move my legs around for a bit to work on the abs...again. Which, btw, I am only doing for the members of my family who complained because I think "washboard" abs on women is kinda gross. Joaquin, on the other hand, puts me to shame with his 20 chin ups a day, and he does those push up clappy things. Oh, and we both lost about 40lbs since the last time anyone has seen us, and still working on a bit more.

Let me tell you, losing weight is no BIG picnic (in my opinion anyway). For example, we sleep on real hard beds when we go to duty. And I don't mean the USA standard firm mattress with box springs. I mean, we sleep on plywood or the floor. In the beginning it wasn't so bad, because I had so much extra padding in all my bony parts. But now, I have the worst sleep because my hips, butt, and shoulders would ache so bad. And then, on our way home from our last duty, our group shared a van (12 altogether including our clinical instructor and not the driver). With the "Filipino vans" you should be able to fit 4 Filipinos in the back seat (3 Americans). Naturally, Joaquin, myself and our friend Ray sit in the back seat. We assume that we need all the space, and it used to be a bit of a comfortable tight fit. But this time around, I kept getting flung all over the back seat and I could not sleep a wink. I had to squish my legs up on to the chair (a move I have not done since 1998) just to become somewhat comfortable. And still to this day, I keep thinking that I look one way and I expect to see that in the mirror. But, I am totally wrong and I get this awkward feeling that I am in the twilight zone. A person can develop a mental disorder this way. Not that I am complaining, or am going to try to gain it all back. HA! Just saying it's weird and needs getting used to. I would love to provide pics, but the battery charger for our AA batteries blew up (literally, by being put in 220volts) and it's not worth buying Philippine batteries. So, I am going to leave it all to your imagination.

A Philippine Joke that I Made Up

2008-07-21T23:07:00.002+08:00

Use "Neighbor" in a sentence....

Ah, Neighbor mind!

Use "Jello" in a sentence...

Don't be Jello-s of me!

More things that I learned in Nursing

2008-07-13T10:57:00.002+08:00

1. If you hear someone say outside your window "Ah Bebbo Bebbo!!!" It means:
a. Balut
b. Taho
c. Chicharron
d. Puto
> if they add "....ah Plastik!!" after a few minutes, they are just collecting your plastic bottles.

2. Good things do come in small packages...from the sari-sari store.

3. You can buy ANYTHING at the sari-sari store.

4. If you get the "Lavender scented Mosquito Coil" instead of the regular one, you are "Soshal". *The regular one costs 8 pesos and the Lavender one is 13 pesos.*

5. It's an OUTRAGE if the jeep raises their fare by 50 sentavos.

6. Giant Crazy Tarantulas, Scorpions, Cockroaches and other spiders DO EXIST...usually in your house.

7. If you see a naked person running in the street, just ignore it.

8. EVERYONE can sing.

9. If you feel like singing in a crowded elevator, just go ahead.

10. Even though the capacity on the elevator says max: 13, you can still fit 2 more. Filipinos are small! It can't possibly mean them.

11. Conformity really does get you more friends
*note* Individualism = "Maarte"

12. You eventually get used to the barking dogs and crowing roosters.

13. Halls = CANDY

14. You can individual wrap ANYTHING and sell it e.g. halls, mentos, cigarettes, etc.

15. Joaquin is a Filipino in a "white guy" outfit.

Things I learned in Nursing

2008-07-12T19:59:00.002+08:00

1. The Philippines is Predictably UNPREDICTABLE
2. Keep candles in the right spots in the house so that if your lights go out during the night, you know how to find them.
3. Always keep a bucket of water in your house because no lights = no water = no flushable toilet.
4. Life is too short to care too much.
5. Joaquin and I are surprisingly probably the most adaptable people that we know.
6. You can still hand wash white uniforms, and they will still be white :)
7. There is a way to sit on the ground in a way where you are not touching the ground and its as if you are hanging in a mini hammock chair. And you can sit there all day long.
8. It's always good to keep a mini umbrella in your purse. It could rain or be too sunny...
9. How to get creases in a pair of pants that are so sharp that they still stay on the pants even after several washes.
10. You can keep white shoes white with toothpaste.
11. 50 pesos can stretch longer than 3 days.
12. How to individually pack clothes in case cockroaches manage to sneak inside your luggage.
13. Toiletries should go inside hard plastic containers so that they don't get wet in the shower.
14. You don't need a shower if you have a bucket and a pail.
15. You don't need a flushable toilet if you have a bucket and a pail.
16. How to easily injure yourself carrying Joaquin on your back while crawling on the floor.
17. How to NOT move passed an inch while carrying Joaquin on your back while crawling on the floor.
18. This is not the best country to be in if you are trapped in a burning building.
19. If you fail a student and you pass out on the ground, expect to still be in the same spot an hour later.
20. Chocolate still tastes great no matter what mood you are in.

BLS and more

2008-07-09T17:26:00.003+08:00

What is BLS you may ask yourself? Basic Life Support. As in CPR and stuff. Last week, we had to go through our BLS training. And I have been saying all along that we should have been taught basic first aid and CPR. So when I heard we had to do this, I was quite excited about it...until I learned the truth.
Well, first of all, I pretty much already knew CPR and the Heimlich just from a CPR class I took before we moved to the Philippines. So, yes if you were choking and I just stood there, it's probably because I hate you....
CPR was day one, but after that, I thought we would learn other basic first aid...like putting on a bandaid if you get a minor cut, or using hydrogen peroxide...But nope, its not like that at all.
We were taught TRIAGE. And here, I thought they stopped teaching that to people in WWII. Well, I guess it's kinda nice to know that if my friend fractures a leg, I know how to tear up a shirt into a triangle, fold it into a bandage like strip, and bandage using the perfect square knot...all in less than a minute. It might not be the prettiest thing, but hopefully it would be effective. I would not really know because they demonstrated it to a class of 100 students in the middle of the room, with 30 different procedures, and not repeating one. Then they left us a alone to "practice" and basically teach ourselves.
I thought it might be cool to know these techniques, except now I don't remember any of them. Currently I am using the bandages (which we had to have made by a tailor within 24 hours) as my pot holder. Those pots are damn hot!
The other part of our training was EMERGENCY and RESCUE. I guess it sounds real cool, but when you think about it, it's quite ridiculous. They expect me, a person who can not even do an inch worth of a pull up, to run into a burning building, throw someone on my back and crawl out. Wouldn't I leave the fire stuff to...hmm I don't know...the firefighters?! If I saw a burning building, I would just stare at it, just wondering if everyone is ok. I might call the fire department, but there is no way in hell I am going to risk my own life inhaling a bunch of smoke, to "rescue" someone. Isn't it "women and children first"? Well Im a woman. I can help out with my pot holders...I mean bandages...if only I could remember which direction to fold the damn thing...

Oh well, I can just do CPR on the other guy.

It Works!

2008-06-23T14:28:00.004+08:00

Alright, the link that didn't work before works now. You don't need a torrent downloader. You can download the file directly from here, you just need the free version of winzip. So you can click here to make money easy off the internet .

I know that it sounds unbelievable, but I make about $10 a month. I don't think that is too bad considering I am doing absolutely nothing but using my internet. Once you get more referrals, of course you make more money, but I didn't want to email this to my friends and family or they might think Im a freak hehe.

Other than that, not much going on. We just got back from a 6 day hospital duty. Joaquin was able to assist in a hysterectomy and saw lots of blood. Me? I mostly sat in a hot sweaty room with two fans blaring dreaming of ice cream and halo-halo. We alternated shifts, and he ended up getting the "lucky" days. I always thought it was funny that they would call a bunch of people needing surgery or bleeding all over the place as "lucky". In your final year, you find out that it's a dog eat dog world out there. Trying to obtain the necessary cases is a brutal process.

My group mates were a bunch of good sports. I managed to take a video of them without them knowing, just before going into the operating room. They are what makes duty all worth while.

And it all starts with Karen Murry

2008-06-04T21:27:00.011+08:00

I have been contemplating on what to write here for a few days now. Really, this whole summer has basically been a complete bust. They keep telling us that "oh you have to be here in a few days" or "oh you don't get any time off this summer." Then we find out that we had ridiculous amounts of time. I really wanted to go home. We haven't been home in over a year now. And I went to the school several times to get a definite schedule so that we may plan our vacation. They just tell me that we are not going to have a vacation. Basically, our duty will end June 10 and we will start back June 14.
So, I pushed aside all thoughts in my head about going home. I prepared for the worst. Then I find out that our duty actually finished mid may because they messed up the scheduling yet again, and so I wasted perfectly good time to go home. But that is not the worst of it. They told us at the end of our duty that enrollment would be May 26. Joaquin and I were planning on going to Kalibo for a little vacation, but postponed it because of the enrollment date. When May 26 came around...no enrollment for 4th year. That is not until Jun 5. Basically, Joaquin and I have been sitting at home doing nothing ever since then. Then they also tell us that we need ANOTHER medical physical before duty. I knew I had one more time to look forward to pooping in an old film container...That I will have to take care of tomorrow. There is one thing that you can count on in the Philippines: The Philippines's unpredictability is so predictable.
On the other hand, there have been some interesting things that would pop up in our path and disturb our internet time. Just last weekend, a monk named Kelsang Tonglam came from Asia to do some Dharma talks at Bliss Cafe. So we attended a class on meditation on Saturday for a full day event. It was quite relaxing and productive. I have meditated myself a few times before, but this has been the most invigorating. I had somewhat of an out of body experience. Joaquin said that he realized it was the first time that he has ever meditated before.
We also discovered how much we love the good ole U S of A. We have been freaking out for a while about getting our passports renewed. It's a pretty difficult process considering we are out of the country and the school wouldn't even let us go home. I was told that we had to go to the US Embassy and that's all the way in Manila. Then Joaquin made a phone call. Within minutes, our passport "package" was sent to our door by Fed Ex and all we have to do is add the picture and fill out the info. If you had to renew a Philippine passport, that takes months to process and take care of.
Let me see...now with all this extra time that I seem to have on my hands, I decided to use it quite constructively. After I figured out how to make money online without doing anything at all, I started to work on my family tree. I became interested in this task last year, when we visited my Uncle Tim in New York. I realized that I actually do not know ANYTHING about my family. On both sides even. But it is best if I do research one side at a time. My mother's side will probably be a bit harder considering most of them are in the philippines, and would just require me to ask a lot of questions.
I began by downloading the program at www.myheritage.com. It works extremely well, but unfortunately with the amount of family that we have, it will cost about $35 a year to run it. So I decided to move the site over to Geocircles where I think it's even more private and completely free.
Well, there were new things that I have discovered that I will not get into yet again for the 80 millionth time after emailing them to every family member. But lets just say I have made quite an accomplishment. I was able to trace our family through my great grandmother all the way to the 1400s. Maybe even further, but I got a little tired. I am really trying to fill in these nagging gaps in our time lines and its extremely difficult. I am trying to get people to physically go to court houses to get information. Basically proof that people even existed.
When I do finally come home, a long overdue family reunion will be in order. I am hoping that this whole genealogy thing will bring us way closer together. I know that recently, I have been chatting with family members that I have not spoken to in years. I even found a new one in TX and we try to chat more often.

Ok, I just had to do this, but if anyone reading this is interested in making money online, a seriously doing absolutely nothing except leave your computer and internet on, click this link:

Make money ;)

I think I will add pics and stuff next time...not that we have any

The Philippines Boracay adventure

2008-03-30T11:54:00.020+08:00

Here is a little run down of the 2008 Philippines trip for Pamcakes and Grandma Shirley.

1. They took a flight from LA to a short stop over in Guam.
Nothing special, just a "technical stop" assuming to fill up on gas. They didn't even deplane.

2. The same plane flew from Guam to Manila. We picked them up at 6:45am. They did not realize that they were on the same plane as Manny Pacquio. He is a famous boxer all over the world. They are even calling him a "National Hero" in this country. People here know him even better than the president (of the Philippines).

3. We took a short shuttle to the domestic airport.

4. Another short flight using Cebu Pacific (I will be complaining about this airline later in the blog) to my home province Kalibo, Aklan located on the island of Panay.

5. Then we took a 1.5 hour van ride to the end of the island, to Caticlan where there are boat ports to head on over to Boracay.

6. We proceded over to Boracay using a banca. A banca is a narrow motorized boat with outriggers. Makes capsizing nearly impossible.

7. Once on the island we took a short "tricycle" ride to my uncle's beach resort named the White House.

We finally were able to relax. Pamcakes and Grandma Shirley took their first untraveling breath laying down on a big fluffy white bed. We stayed on the island of Boracay for 4 nights and 5 days.

Our main form of transportation were the tricycles. Cars are too big to use all over the island. We tried to condense all of our adventures into this short week, including an hour long nap everyday. Everyone got massages on beach while drinking rum slushies.

We ate dinner in a mountain at a restaurant, one night, named Nami. I was worried about Grandma Shirley because it is quite a climb up a bunch of stairs, but she is a trooper. I'm the one who managed to leave with an injury...a splinter.

We also had dinner in a wonderful Indian restaurant and everyday we had a shake at Jonah's.

The day before we left, we took another banca on the water and went snorkeling. There we saw sea snakes (the guides assured me that they were not poisonous, which I know for a fact they are the most poisonous creatures in the world) and I saw a sea horse. Some of our snorkeling spots even had bats flying looking for insects on the beach.
The last night of our trip, my uncle threw a concert for one of his friends, and we all got drunk (except for Grandma of course). This was the perfect ending to our beach paradise.

So, now on our way to Baguio...the place where everything is completely opposite of our beach paradise.

1. We took a tricycle to the port again.

2. Took a banca back to Caticlan

3. Rented a van to Kalibo.

Now we stopped in Kalibo for a bit to visit my other uncle. Our flight was not scheduled until 8:30pm so we had time to relax...or so we thought.

My uncle decided to call up the airline at the airport (he owns the part of the airport in which our particular airline is renting) because he found it impossible that we had such a late flight. Come to find, he was right and our flight was bumped UP to 4:30pm. The time was now 3:30pm...

So we gathered our things, and got on the next tricycle to the airport to get the heck out of dodge. Once we got at the airport, I threw down a bunch of names and yelled at the airline for not at least getting in contact with us to let us know we were leaving 4 hours in advance..of course I didn't get anywhere.

4. Flight using Cebu Pacific (BOOOOO) to Manila. Then we waiting for about an hour to get a taxi to the bus station.

5. Taxi to bus station.

6. Bus to Baguio...after 7 hours.

We arrived in Baguio at 3 am, and were extremely tired. I got the sniffles from all the changes in climate. Ok, more to come in 5 more days.

Bliss Cafe!!

2008-03-22T21:02:00.004+08:00

Ok, I made a Sims 2 movie about my favorite restaurant. Enjoy!

Karen Murry, it's time for a change.

2008-03-17T19:23:00.009+08:00

Well school is about as good as it gets. Another year of bullshit just finished, and we still have one more year to go. What can we do. Well, I've been getting back in touch with my artistic self including drawings, paintings and cooking. I've discovered totally new ways to cook and completely vegetarian (but not vegan).

For an appetizer, we've got a Egg Salad Letuce wrap (for the Octo-Lavo in you).

The main course is a Peanut Tofu Soup which happens to be totally vegan...unless someone tells me that you can't use peanut butter...

And for desert, yummy Toasted Coconut Balls (also for the Octo-Lavo)
It's real hard to be completely vegan, especially in this country. I have managed to deal with eating only fish, milk and eggs (as my non vegan diet). When I walk into a party, hate to be the person who couldn't eat and got drunk too fast.
Art wise, I have been been using oil pastels a great deal. The vegetarian restaurant, Bliss Cafe her in Baguio that I go to is willing to put up a few of my pieces. So now it will be displayed there for a while. Joaquin made me a little portfolio which I shall be editing frequently.
The food is so excellent at Bliss, that we go there at least once a week. It has really helped me out a lot during my conversion to vegetarianism.

Oh Yeah,

I just realized what day I am posting this, hehe.

UB Fire and something to write about.

2008-02-17T08:11:00.006+08:00

That's right. In every student's career as a ...student, we all have the same thought that goes through our minds: "What will we do if there is a major calamity?" Then you say, "this will never happen to us." Well, our worst nightmare came true...our school caught on fire. So it is my duty to give all the information that I may have to tell the public.

Joaquin and I woke up on Saturday morning to a beautiful day in Baguio City. The roosters were crowing as usual by our bedside. Life resumed as if it was a normal day. Joaquin was rushing around the room because he had to be at the school for a very important meeting. Today was "tuition increase day" and he had to become the voice of the students. The meeting was actually open to all, but I was feeling under the weather yet again. Quite frankly, I really did not want to go because I knew that the school did not really give two shits if we had a thing or two to say about the increase. The usual scenario would consist of me sitting in the crowd, pouty faced, saying my two cents, and then feeling degraded and unheard by the administration of the whole school. What was the point in stressing myself? Even Joaquin agreed with me, but as a "school leader" it was mandatory for him to attend. Lets just say this is Karma.

Joaquin left for the school and I started cooking. I was in the mood to make hummus. The process of softening up the chickpeas took forever to I surfed the internet and called my parents a few million times. But on the millionth time, they would get a disturbing phone call.

I received a text message close to noon from joaquin. I was sure it was him telling me to meet him at SM for a day at the supermarket because we are in dire need of coffee. Unfortunately it read "UB is on fire". My initial reaction was "yeah, im sure the students are running around freaking out about the tuition increase." Then I stared at my phone for a bit and pondered for a minute. Why would Joaquin text me something like that? He doesnt just make random metaphorical statements through texting. He can't stand texting for fear of improper communication.

I decided to call him to get the story straight, but the lines were down. For a split second I thought the worst and I began to freak out. But wok knows me very well, and he was the one who called me. "the B building is on fire, people are running around. Look outside, you might be able to see it." I just wanted him to come home so I told him to just come home as soon as he can. And no, you can not see the school from my house.

While I waited for him, I went downstairs to visit my Persian friends to tell them the grave news. The B building was mainly the dentistry building, and from what Joaquin was saying, it did not look too good. This quickly became horror day in Baguioland.

What do you do when you find out that your school is on fire? So many things crossed our minds.

Was anyone hurt?
Do we have class on monday?
Do we have class at all?!!!
Should we visit the site?
Where do we go now that we don't have two buildings?
is it arson?

You can't help but think, gee if only we had a few fire drills, or if UB didn't cut corners on construction. How does a fire that starts from one building travel through three buildings and to the roof into a blazing inferno in a span of 10 min?

I just know, my #1 concern was Joaquin. And he came home immediately. Im just happy that we are all safe.

Now here is something interesting. That morning, at about 10AM, I get a text saying "Ma'am so and so says we need to be in school today for class. Sorry that we told you that you did not have class." And I just said to myself "screw them. you can't just tell people that they have class and now they are 2 hours late" Then an hour later there is a fire that people will be talking about for years. It's Karma.

here is a great post on the whole scenerio from someone who can account it better at the Baguio Insider

What do you do when the internet goes down?

2008-01-21T20:56:00.000+08:00

Joaquin was freaking out again, because the internet went down. I actually found out today that it was, for once, not the fault of the internet company. Joaquin has been "futzing" around with his new Operating System, and probably screwed up some connection some where...but anyway after all his kicking and screaming I finally fixed it. So I did something that I thought I would never do in my entire life...I organized my pictures on my computer....yes I was as equally shocked as you currently are now.
So since I have not been typing much with hospital duty and stupid group projects, I thought I would share a few things that I found in my Picture folders. Some of these things might be a bit shocking, so brace yourself.

Here is a bat video from when we visited Boracay.

This is what happens when you mix Manila heat with Redhorse... (this is not me, it's my cousin)
Teenage love gone weird...

Who the hell was taking this pic?

To be continued tomorrow, my internet is waaaaay too slow.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!

2008-01-02T11:35:00.001+08:00

Hello 2008. It's me, Karen. How will you treat me this year? What New Year's resolution shall I make? Well, I will make my usual "Im going to lose weight down to 120lbs". Last year that did not sound so realistic, but this year I think I can do it. In the past 2 months I already lost 10lbs. Eating during the holidays are not exactly helping me much, but I am only human.

For Christmas we went to Sagada again. We love it there. We went with a bunch of our Persian friends and my sister, Kate. We had so much fun, and did things that I can honestly say I have never done before. We went caving and trekking. Even though I was scared out of my mind, I still managed to keep my cool. There were several times where I could not keep my composure as a lady. I fell knee deep in mud, and almost lost my shoes while I swore up and down not only in English but Tagalog as well ( you always learn the bad words first). I tried to ignore the fact that there were visible snails in the mud and where there are snails, there are parasites.

I used to think to myself when I was younger that I was not afraid of heights. Then when we came to the Philippines, I realized that I am nautiously afraid of heights. There was a point as I was walking across the rice terraces, I became dizzy. I kept picturing myself sprawled out on top of a bed of cabbage, piercing my sides. Would I sink into the mud? Would the frogs and snakes get me? As I walked a bit faster, trying to maintain my balance, the cabbages became a blur and I started to lose focus. And once you lose focus, there is no "stop one second I need to rest". It was more like "Oh shit, keep going, there is no way back and if I fall that's it for me..." And I didn't exactly like the idea of my death being amongst the cabbage.

Or even when we were in the caves. 1. if i fell, its a VERY long way down 2. It would be so much trouble for everyone to find my limp body and haul it up to the road. So all that I could really do is watch my slippery steps, and ignore the dizziness. I do have to say, for someone who is afraid of heights, I am still up for the challenge.

When I wasn't crying in my head, I enjoyed every minute of it. I had everyone all around me who understood my situation and did not make me feel like the big baby that I really am. I was assured that snakes did not live in the caves and there was nothing to fear in the dark. Supposedly, snakes can not survive in Sagada because of the cold. I wonder if they placed that in the brochures...

I never really believed in ghosts until I moved here. As a child, I am constantly trying to tell myself that there is no such thing. That if I pray to God, then they will not exist and leave me alone. Well let me tell you, they do exist. And all we can do is pray to God...for their souls. But I am not afraid of them. Even if you can not see them 100% of the time, they are there. They might pay you a visit when you are most volnurable. The other night, my sister and I were staying at my cousins house in manila. I've had a few minor encounters so I am thinking Sagada might have opened up my third eye a bit. During our stay there, we shared one room. I was sleeping on the right twin bed and she was sleeping on the left of me. We fell asleep at about 3am because both of us were packing. At about 4 am, I was absolutely startled and awoken. I saw that my sister was tickling my elbow. I said "why are you doing that? you scared me and woke me up." She just shrugged her shoulders. At the time, I had to use the restroom so I went downstairs to relieve myself. By the time I came back up, my sister was fast asleep. So I crawled into bed and drifted away to la la land.

The next morning, I asked her why she would do that? She's 21, and tickling my elbow is something a child would do. She replied "I never did that". Then my cousin began to explain that the house was haunted and that a child ghost lived on the stairs. He just didn't tell us because he thought we would freak out. The child ghost already chased away 3 previous tenants. But since an altar of the Baby Jesus was placed at the stairs, he hasn't appeared.

Like I mentioned earlier, I think Sagada has opened my third eye more. And some people say that if you have one experience, you will forever have many more. Here in baguio, we have a hotel named the Diplomat Hotel. People will go there just for fun...ghost hunting. They think nothing of it. But out of all the people I know who went there, they all continously see ghosts everyday. My friend Carol went there, and now she sees them everywhere. She says that she doesnt like coming to our house because she saw a ghost in the building downstairs, and also at our neighbors house. I believe her too, because I myself have had my own creepy experiences in this house.

Christmas and Hospitals

2007-12-18T22:49:00.000+08:00

We are about 2 weeks away from Christmas and my birthday. Im not all that excited about my birthday because I'm not exactly getting any younger, but I am somewhat excited about Christmas. Kate will be here with us for a while and I am real happy about that. I almost had hospital duty on my birthday, but luckily the Clinical Instructors are having their Christmas party that day. So I actually lucked out. I guess there is a benefit for having your birthday during the holidays. So while I was supposed to be studying for my medical surgical exam tomorrow, I made another movie.
Anyone who knows my family will find this funny...but if you don't, then I hope that you enjoy the movie anyway lol

I believe while I was at my most recent hospital duty, I saved a child from going into convulsions because I was able to catch her fever before it reached a dangerous level. The staff nurses didn't believe me the first time that she had a fever. They claimed that she wasn't even hot. So I went ahead to prove to them that I wasn't an incompetent student nurse. That time, the child's temperature was 39.8C. Im not sure on the conversions, but lets just say that a person may go into convulsions once it reaches 40.
It was a scary moment for me. Not because she could of gotten brain damage. I am usually pretty good at making sure my patients get the care that they need. I was more afraid that I was just about the only person who cared about her. She wasn't even my patient, and I just "felt" like taking her vitals. My clinical instructor was even saying "oh, its the end of our shift, so lets go". I just said "you can go ahead without me. I need to make sure my patient is ok." Then he replies "I thought that you didn't have a patient today." No, I did not have a patient that day, but that doesn't mean that I should not care for the patients in the ward. I was assigned to supervise my group mates, so I did not have a patient assigned to me. I just waved him away, risking the "letter of explanation" for not listening to him.
It is certainly a sad day when a student nurse's teacher tries to make her feel bad for trying to save a life.

A Day with Yavon

2007-11-11T14:36:00.000+08:00

It only took me 3 days to put this video up but I finally did it!!!!!!!! Enjoy

Sims Update Already

2007-11-09T11:00:00.000+08:00

So far, Yavon's house is almost exactly how I remember. I need to get Sims 2 Pets so that I can add Capone. My friend is teaching me more on photoshop, CorelDraw and a 3D program because I would love to give the girls all new styles. We know that the guys dont really care about style so Jesse will be wearing his New Mexico SHirt for a long time. Maybe one day, he will have his Dr. Pepper shirt...

So Christmas give ideas for Karen: anything Sims 2 =)

Once yavon's house is 100% finished, I will be adding Christmas stuff up (or Thanksgiving if I make it in time)

The Sims 2 YAY

2007-11-08T16:02:00.000+08:00

Ok so I finally started to play the Sims 2, and it's actually been taking me about a week to get started because I keep trying to figure out ways to make it better. For example, making new wall colors, creating my own objects, and even creating my own outfits. It's like what Kate is doing at her school (even though she is in way more in depth) except the dummy version.
So I created a bunch of familiar sims...

Look familiar? This is Jesse. When I can figure out how to make a Dr. Pepper Shirt, i will.

Joaquin in my favorite blue shirt

Yavon: being her friendly self

Kate: in the hot tub, showing off her hot bod.

Chris: Kate's bf (even though I haven't him yet. I think this is what he would look like)

And of Course MEEEEEEEEEEEEEE! Playing on the computer. I'm thinking about making a new blog with their story. I know it sounds pretty cheesey, but that is what the game is made for. So far they all live in seperate houses. Kate lives with me, Joaquin lives with Jesse, Yavon has her own house (i'm going to build her current townhouse), and Chris lives alone (of course, i haven't even met the guy yet lol). Eventually, Yavon and Jesse will move in together...because that is how the story goes.

They all have neat careers: So far, Im a vet and kate is Tomb Raider lol. Lets see how long I can play this game and build up on their lives. This game creates story boards, so I will be linking those much later...when I start playing.

I have a good excuse!!!!

2007-11-02T15:25:00.000+08:00

I know that I have used this one before, but this time I mean it. I was real busy for the past few weeks. I even stopped playing WoW, and canceled my account. Maybe I feel it's time for me to grow up. Or even that the game has become boring. Some people just take the game way too seriously, and I don't have that kind of time or energy.

So now, it is our semester break. I feel a bit cheated because it is the first break that I am not able to go home. My sister will be coming this Christmas so I am exited about that.
We were spending the last few weeks working on "books". We have case presentations at school, and unfortunately they are group projects. We have to present our hospital, community and school nursing outputs to a panelist of 3 clinical instructors (C.I.s). Mainly, these case presentations are used to exhibit the power that the C.I.s have over the students. I know that I am stronger and that I don't take to heart the opinions of these teachers. Most of them are just hungry for attention and have nothing better to do then wait for their confirmation letter to be allowed into the US. But things that they say can be real hurtful, and humiliating just for an attempt to make their lives seem better. For example, in one of our reports we said that a patient was of medium build. It is quite obvious what that means but we were asked to elaborate. Then one of the panelists compares myself, and claims that there is no way I am of medium build. Well, according to all the clothes that I buy in the states, i am still medium build. Maybe in the Philippines I might be large. But it doesn't matter because my size should not be compared to anything. I chose to ignore this, because my size is a common ridicule in this country. But, then I heard that another student was subject to this ridicule during another panel, and he is half my size. So tell me, when does a teacher have a right to subject students to humiliation?

Well, that was over, and I have determined that I am going to try my hardest not to be in the same group as last semester. I discovered, that only 4 people (including myself) did all the work for these books for an entire semester. And I know that I did most of the work, and frankly I am quite used to it. But, the least my group mates could of done was reviewed the cases or used common sense once we were faced with the panelists. Basically, I was the only person who could defend our cases. And it makes me wonder what type of nurses are we trying to send abroad?
The more and more I go through these semesters and strange hard ships, I am more convinced of becoming a veterinarian. During the first semester, I some what doubted myself. I thought that maybe I would just be a nurse forever. Never mind continuing my education. However, I am questioning my knowledge and education here, and I honestly don't think I am fit to be a nurse. Joaquin, on the other hand, will probably be the best nurse that I will ever meet. Nursing is like second knowledge. He studies Med Surg and pharmacology, while I am starting to study on Animal Virology. I am trying to study whatever I can on Veterinarian medicine, but it is not easy considering that the references are scarce.

So, we finally took a mini vacation with Joaquin's nursing student body. We went to Sagada, and I know that Joaquin already made a long blog on coffee. But it's not just the coffee that we indulged ourselves with. We climbed a GIANT mountain. And I thought I was going to die climbing back up. I really questioned my abilities out there. Since I have met Wok, we have been hiking more and more, and climbing this mountain should not have been such an extraneous task. But climbing back up the mountain, I almost fainted several times. So I had to review my pathophysiology to figure out why I could barely make it. My conclusion: Dehydration. I drank the night before, barely had any water, and was constipated for 3 days = dehydration. Then going to an even HIGHER elevation makes less oxygen, which will make you even more dehydrated. In case anyone is wondering, oxygen runs in the blood and makes your brain work and heart beat. Lack of oxygen decreases the level of consciousness hence fainting. The best way to replenish oxygen is by drinking lots of water. If you are creating more work for your body or you are climbing higher elevations, then you need to drink extra amounts of water more than the required amount (at least 3 liters). In conclusion, I looked like an idiot.

But at the bottom of the mountain was a beautiful waterfall, and it was well worth the whole passing out thing.

But we had lots of fun and ate good food. Mostly home cooked because it is definitely cheaper than eating out. Whenever Wok and I were able to escape, we still ate at our favorite place: Yoghurt House.
It is about the only place in the Philippines that makes their own yogurt and serves gormet food. And its usually with a budget of 100 pesos per person.

Once we arrived back home, I finished doing my Christmas cards and should be sending them out within the next few days. I had to give myself ample time because last year, some people received their cards in January. So don't hate me for receiving your card early, I cant do anything about our postal system.

I have also been working on my book about pet advice. At first I was going general with it, and was going to tackle all pets. But Wok thinks I should just write about dogs first, because I know more about that then...fish or birds.

Ok so last, here is a new video from my sister. Enjoy!

Do you want A. Real me B. Show of me C. None of the above?

2007-09-25T08:38:00.000+08:00

I thank God everyday that I have Joaquin. He accepts me for who I am and I don't have to change. Its funny how men can make a girl change. Not so much change, but make them blinded to their surroundings. Or make them disagreeable to their real friends. Because men come and go but your friends and family should be there forever. And if a man comes to between a friendship, then who is to say that friendship was real? But Joaquin will never do that. When we first met, I showed him the real me, not the show off me. Because if he could not accept that, then the relationship would not even be worth starting. Ok, maybe a little "show off me". Even though, I just let him beat me in pool...
For those who do not know, Joaquin and I decided not to attend our capping ceremony. And for those of you who are curious as to what that is...nevermind. Both of our families are not able to attend, well my family in manila are willing. But I would rather just my mother could go, and it seems like an awful lot of trouble. I appreciate that they want to come, and I told them that they can just visit if they like. But I will see...
I think I am just tired, and I am trying so hard not to do the whole "I want to go home already" thing. Sometimes I feel so alone out here, and I have Joaquin but its hard when only one person truely understands you. Always have to watch what you say...and that is just not me.

On a lighter note...here is my sister KATE!!!!!!!!!

I AM CHAMPION!!!!!!!

2007-09-23T16:39:00.001+08:00

That's right, I finally accomplished something in the close to three years that we have been here. Me and my teamates (2 other girls) just won the Billiard Championship. Who would of thought we would win considering we were going against Engineering students and ICT students. I wonm 6 out of 8 games, and I am quite proud of that. So now I get a cool jacket and an "athlete's scholarship". Woot, go me. Wish I took pics =(

Nurses and Cocktails

2007-09-01T09:29:00.000+08:00

Well it's been a while since my last blog, and I will use the usual excuse that I am sooooooooooo busy....playing WoW. Today was another one of our many holidays which are usually not know until the week before...Baguio Day. Last week was Hero's Day, the week before that was Nino Aquino day, and the week before that was the Foundation Day of our school. Convenient for everyone that these fall once a week.
We are finally all finished with our Community and School nursing for the REST of our lives. Last night I had to celebrate so we had our closest friend come by for a few drinks. It was quite fun.

Here is me in my FULL on community get up...Vest worn a total of 7 times (no it did not escape the early 90s), and the blouse worn 7 times. The pants and black shoes are about the only things that I have that I wore for 3 semesters. Usually with a Tshirt. Makes me feel great that I wasted 2k pesos on the blouse and shirt, and now I will NEVER wear again...

And here is the uniform that you ALL have been waiting for. Our first hospital duty was a few weeks ago. My 3rd real patient EVER passed on me. Not for things that I could not do, but for other reasons that I would rather not say. For the first few days I was a bit traumatized. I had nightmares, but eventually I got over it. It's life, and as a future nurse, I should be getting used to this sort of thing...but I think nurses never get used to it.
And here is a video on what we do with our spare time....

Blog Time

2007-07-29T09:04:00.000+08:00

I finally made it into something....the Nursing Billiards Team. Ah my favorite sport. We start our opening on Aug 7, then compete in intramurals. Its good to finally get my mind off of my nursing crap.
I finally got one of my hospital uniforms yesterday, and I look like a giant marshmallow puff with red and gray stripes. I hate it. Good thing my hospital doesnt start until Aug 6, because it gives me time to have it taken in.
In case anyone is wondering, I have 3 different sets of uniforms. 1. Community uniform: UB Blouse, Gray Vest (nope it did not escape the 90s), Gray slacks, WHITE socks, and black shoes. 2. Skills Lab: UB Tshirt, Grey Slacks, WHITE socks, and black shoes. 3. Hospital uniform: A GIANT TENT DRESS, WHITE STOCKINGS, and white shoes. Oh and OR Scrubs, which i really regret not getting from my dad. Each uniform I basically need 3 sets, because we get dirty very fast.
The clinical instructors seem to be a touch better than the ones from last year. But a lot of them need work. The school still wastes a lot of time, and money.
Ive got 2 hated subjects this sem. 1. Intro to research: My teacher has no idea how to research, and thinks a hypothesis is not an educated guess or answer. She says that if we already answered the question, then you can not do research. HELLO!!!!! A research paper is to prove that your answer is correct. And yes, I beleive amongst other people that she really doesnt like me. Maybe even Joaquin. She doesnt like any of our suggestions. Maybe she just doesn't like Americans... 2. Community Health Nursing CLass: The teacher has shown up to class 4 times, correction 5 times. So far we had 15 classes. And the whole thing is Healthcare 2 all over again. I dont know why we are taking the class AGAIN. It was painful the first time around, and still nothing new.
Well, thats about it...until next time.

Why I hate politics, and yet I am always in it.

2007-07-09T13:11:00.000+08:00

I tried to ease my mind with all that happened in the past couple of weeks, and I ran in the same election as Joaquin (which he failed to mention). Except I lost. Of course he would win. Who wouldn't want to vote for the only white guy who ever ran for office in our school? Oh and "my friends voted for him because he is their crush". I feel so great that we came all the way to the Philippines so that other women can have crushes on him...
I guess its nice to know that he is definitely fitting well within his environment. And what about me? Same ol, same ol...just like everyone else.
For me, they put my mother's maiden last name down as my last name on the ballots, so most of my friends thought that I dropped out of the election. The people who really knew me, just looked for my first name. I believe that it was quite an unfair election, because the comelec was told in the very beginning of the major mistake, and they failed to properly correct it.
At least, I still must of been very popular because I only lost by 15 votes. My position was only auditor, and I guess it would be too much work for me anyway. I just wanted to win so bad because I don't remember winning anything. And I keep telling my parents that I am doing this and running for that, but I always lose. I feel like I am just disappointing them more and more. Its kinda to the point that I don't even tell them that I am doing anything. I swore to myself that I am never running for anything again. It's way too much work to lose.
Except....I am trying out for the Billiards team for our school. Not too many women play pool here, so I am sure I will at least make it on a TEAM...maybe.

Some things just shouldnt happen

2007-07-04T08:19:00.000+08:00

A lot of things have happened since we came home. So far, none has been good, so I did not feel the need to relate in my blog. I really need a semester off....I am so tired, and feel used up. Stress is coming at me in large portions, and I do not understand how people here can function with their frame of mind.
I really hate (yes absolutely hate) the way that people here see death. They see it so casually. The other day, in class, a girl stood up in class and used her father's death as an example in developmental stages. Her father died last week. She told us so casually and with no emotion what so ever, that it shocked me. I felt that if I showed her any sign of sympathy, I would be laughed at because they are not afraid of laughing at people.

I remembered almost the same thing happened to me when I had Typhoid Fever. I was absent from school for 2 weeks, and on the borderline death. When I told my classmates that I was in the hospital, and almost died, it was like I just told them that I like to eat cake.

When I was first told, that the only deaths that are excused from school are your mother, father, sister or brother, I just could not believe it. But I can definitely believe it now. I am not sure if it’s the thought that your loved ones are in heaven that overwhelms them so much to cause them not to care. Or that death happens so often here, that people are starting not to care.

If I ever felt so alone before, it is nothing compared to how I feel now. I just want this whole deal to be over with because it seems that I am missing out on a whole lot.

I miss her and I couldn't even hold her one last time...

Hospital Duty

2007-04-24T22:33:00.000+08:00

I guess you can say that we had a real taste of nursing over the past weekend. I know it did not last long, and the next time we will have hospital exposure will be in a few months. It was still exciting even for me. I got to work in the OB ward, and I think if I became a future nurse i would like to work there. Or just work with babies. They are so cute and don't complain hehe. But even in the OB ward I got to help the patients with their babies, and teach them how to do things that they might not even know yet.
Even though, of course, I have a bit of "required" useless paperwork to turn in. And I put it like that, because it would seem I am apart of the only group that has to do this. Sometimes I am not that sure what I am doing, because the teachers don't tell us anything. It would seem that the school just hires nurses to teach us, but they have absolutely no teaching skills whatsoever. So every time I walk into one of their classrooms, I am walking in blind and just expecting a quiz.
But in the ward, it is different. We deal with real people and its like I am back at work again. Having to think logically and critically, instead of worrying about spelling. Even though I had the graveyard shift, I still was excited to go to my next shift.
Oh, and those of you who are reading this, pls dont comment on my spelling >.< You know who you are.

I know everyone has been waiting for this blog

2007-04-08T08:35:00.000+08:00

WE are back! Actually we came back last week from Boracay. I thought it was a blast. I was contemplating whether or not I should write in my blog about it because Joaquin had written an epic about it. The question is who reads who's blog more? So anyway, first we of course took the bus to Manila and its a long ride (about 6 hours). We spent the night at my Uncle Mike's then we flew to Caticlan the next day. We had a bit of a delay (about an hour) but supposedly that is normal. I do remember as a kid, the delays would be hours long. So this time, it wasn't so bad.

March 28: We stayed in this place in the beginning named O rchids Resort and I actually HIGHLY recommend it. It is extremely affordable, clean, great atmosphere with complimentary FULL breakfast every morning. We were greeted in the Caticlan airport by a representative of the resort. Without him, I do not know how the other tourists can figure out what to do. You gotta take a tricycle to the boat port, pay all these fees (port fees, boat fees, environmental fees, etc), get on a banca, be let off at the port in boracay, take another tricycle and walk along the beach to the resort. And in my experience, this is actually the least hassle. But normally, tourists travel with someone, and they are too busy checking out the scenery that they don't realize how much of a hassle this is. When all is said and done, the hassle is totally worth it.
The Orchids had the friendliest people, and our check in was so simple. The guy who took us to the resort led us right to our room, and i signed a paper saying that I arrived. period. So simple that it was a bit scarey. We were hungry so we got a bite to eat, bought new sunglasses (two for $10), and went back to the room to take a nap. When we woke up, we ate dinner and had a few drinks to start off our vacation. When we came back to the hotel, we were greeted by the owner of the Resort and showed us true Boracay hospitality.

March 29: I find out from my Uncle that he has a place for me to stay. Joaquin and I decided that we loved the Orchids so much that we would transfer the next day instead of right away. This day was a good relaxing beach day. After breakfast, we walked around so that I can of course spend more money. Went to the shopping area and got real hot. So we had to take a few swim breaks. We ate Mexican for lunch, then I got a massage on the beach while Joaquin swam some more . Then we went back to the hotel, and proceded to our daily nap. When we woke up, Joaquin had sunburn. We ate dinner at a wonderful Indian resteraunt, and a few drinks again, then went back to the hotel.
Keep in mind, we are doing a TON of walking. Especially along the beach. Getting from one place to another takes at least 15-20 min walking. So even though we are eating a lot, and sleeping a lot, we still are getting plenty of exercise.

March 30: We transfered to my Tito Leonard's place the White House. We had our own corner room. By the time we got there and checked in, it was already lunch time. Also we went to the airline ticketing office to extend our vacation. Originally we were suppose to leave April 2, but we changed it to April 4 since my uncle graciously gave us the room.
We ate leftover Indian food for lunch (by this time we are becoming more warey about money), and then we met my Uncle at the Manoc-Manoc to watch some good ole fashion cock fighting. I am totally against this, but I was sure that this would be interesting for Joaquin to see. He loved it (I think anyway). We saw roosters kill each other for over 2 hours. Not exactly my cup of tea. I had tears in my eyes at the first fight.

March 31: We decided that today would be a good day to do "island hopping" with some snorkeling. We didn't exactly go from island to island since we were either in the boat or in the water. We did have so much fun. It lasted for about 3 hours. I didn't realize until we were done for the day, and we were eating lunch at Jonah's Fruitshakes that I had the worst sunburn. Here is a pic of our guid hehe
I realized at that moment two thing: #1 Dont buy Beach Hut SPF 36, because the minute you touch water it is NOT waterproof. I never heard of SPF 36 anyway, so I dont know what the hell I was thinking. #2 We will now eat Jonah's Fruitshakes everyday for Breakfast.
Joaquin discovered an Andok's Manoc, his favorite fastfood chicken place. Since I was dying in bed with sunburn unable to roll onto my back, he went and got that for dinner.

April 1: April FOOLS! I have the WORST sunburn and want to die hehe. I think it was pay back for all the april fool jokes. So we pretty much lazed around in the hotel room the whole day, watching animal planet and CSI. Of course, we left the room for breakfast. Had Andok's breakfast, and Jonah's shake for a chaser.
I was interested in going to a cave or something fun for the next day, so we looked around the shopping area for some ideas. I was told to take a tricycle there and walk to the caves.

April 2: We discovered that my uncle has a DUNE BUGGY! So much fun. We thought we should be a bit adventurous. So we took the dune buggy for a spin, and discovered that we were able to take it to the bat caves.
It was so much fun, but so scarey for me. I am in a bit of denial about my fear of heights. But when we got there and realized that we had to ROCK CLIMB down into the cave, which was slippery and wet. And I could fall to my death on top of a bunch of bat crap, I grew very nervous. If it wasn't for our guide, I dont think I would be writing in this blog right now.
Finally at the bottom, in pitch blackness, and only one flashlight we made it. The guide pointed his flashlight at the ceiling of the cave only to discover thousands and thousands of bats. Wet stuff was dripping on my arms, and I had an idea of what it was. I just kept my mouth closed.
He took us to the underwater water hole, and it looked clear and fresh. I wanted to swim in it, and was so ready to because i was sweating profusly from the horrific climb down. Joaquin went closer to touch the water. Suddenly the guide says "Sir, are you afraid of snakes?" We both looked at him, and I thought he would tell us a story or something. Joaquin replies "Um...No" Then the guide flashes his light onto a LONG snake. I gasped, because it was so close and it was so dark. The guide then says "Don't worry sir, its only a water CORAL SNAKE. It wont bite you" I don't care if there is a "chance" that it won't bite me, but from what I know about coral snakes, they are poisonous and deadly. Plus I didn't want to stick around if it bites or not. When he turns off the flashlight, there is nothing but darkness. Who knows how close those snakes were to my ankles. I just wanted out. The guide procedes to show us an even bigger one, and my heart is just pounding in my chest.
Finally, we left, and had to climb up the mountainous rocks. I did climb them much faster then when I went down. I am not sure if it was knowing my footing this time around, or the fear of snakes. My mother would of buckled and cried hehe.
April 3: We decided to rent some snorkels, go around on the Dune buggy, and make it an ultimate beach day. Of course after breakfast and shakes at Jonah's. We received more massages and finally got the sunset picture that we were procastinating to take.

April 4: Boo, we finally went home. The only thing that I could say about this day, is that we turned almost Filipino. There was a huge line to go back to Baguio at the bus station. Several hours long. As I waited in line, Joaquin waited in front of the bus because we know a secret. The buses stop accepting tickets at a certain number of seats because they pick up people along the way. But if we just get on, we can pay for the bus on it as if we were just picked up. It saved us at least 2 more hours in line, and 4 more hours until the next available bus. Only a Filipino could of pulled off a stunt like that. Being American/Filipino, only makes us more pros and more of a threat to everyone else hehe.

So, that's about it on our vacation, we go back to on Tuesday =(

HAPPY EASTER!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Waiting for Downloads

2007-03-18T21:57:00.000+08:00

I went and had my laptop completely cleaned up, reformatted and wiped clean over the weekend. We have been using it at school, and I think the thumbdrives of my fellow students had viruses on them. Since I started using it in school for our school projects, I have spotted 2 viruses so far using my AVG virus detector thingy. I am pretty sure that this computer has never been "cleaned up" so I had it done. So now I am waiting for a few downloads of skype, and other things that I thought I saved on a HardDisk, but it did not (with my luck, I wasn't the least bit surprised).
A lot of my music was lost, but luckily I already saved it on my other computer. I also saved the songs my sister left on this comp considering #1 I dont know if she still wants it, and #2 I think she has pretty good taste in music. I also lost a few pics that were on this comp, but again I had made a back up on my "Big Comp".
So anyway, finals are this week and I just finished my case presentation last Saturday. We didn't too bad, especially after all the problems the panels gave the other students. They just made us revise it. I am still waiting for the final copy so that I may proofread it, but the procrastination bug seems to have bitten a lot of the student body.
We are looking forward to going on our own little vacation, just Joaquin and I to Boracay.
It will be a lot of fun, and I know that maybe Joaquin will need this vacation more than I do. Well, next time everyone sees us, hopefully we will actually be tanned for once.

Almost Finals

2007-03-11T00:19:00.000+08:00

Today, I must of had the most productive day in duty...and its our last meeting. We went around the community and took pictures of us looking like we are doing things. We are preparing for a major case presentation, which will be held next Saturday. I was asked by my Billiards teacher to represent our class in the Billiards Olympics next Saturday (don't ask) so hopefully I will be able to attend. My case is during the morning and the Olympics will be in the after noon.
I am so glad this semester is almost over. It has been quite stressful. During the summer semester my schedule will be MTW 10:30AM-4:30Pm, then ThFS in the hospital 7:30AM - 8PM. It is not going to be fun. But after that we will be having a much needed vacation back to the states. I am not sure the exact dates, but shoot for mid may. We are doing the best that we can, but its starting to get a bit nutty. Time for more people to visit us instead.

Keeping up with Blogging

2007-03-05T04:39:00.000+08:00

So now, Jesse and Yavon have a blog, so no I really have to write more lol. It's been a while, I know. What else is knew. But I have an excuse...same ole "I am just too busy" excuse. Maybe too busy playing WoW. But also been really busy with school. I have done at least 10 group projects in the past 2 weeks. I know that before I came here, I have not done a single group project since elementary school. Drives me nuts sometimes. Especially when no one shows up to your meetings and you are just sitting there like a crazy person knowing that you will end up doing all the work anyway. But I think I beat the whole group project system. I tell them what I am going to do and what I am not going to do from the very beginning. I know that working too hard is useless since you will probably be the only one. And the teacher's don't really appreciate when you do go "above and beyond".
Last week, I had to act in a play, do a PowerPoint presentation, and sing in a stupid jingle that I wrote. This week, I have case study busy work, finish a comic book, do a collage, and do an ethics case presentation. Who knows what will be in store for next week. We NEVER know in advance. If I knew, then all this will be done by now.
Luckily, we only have 2 more weeks. Then we get a 2 week break. Its hard for us to go anywhere because it is holy week. SO a lot of places are booked. I really want to though. 2 weeks of sitting at home in Baguio isn't exactly the life of the party.
Oh, since last weekend, Baguio had our famous Flower Festival. Starts with one day of parade, then a week of heavy traffic and BBQ. When you walk up our main street, the vendors are all the same selling BBQ BBQ BBQ Flowers BBQ BBQ BBQ Flowers. You would think that people would not make any money here because they all sell the same thing, but you would be wrong.
I am all for festivals, but when you are going to school taking 30 credits and its only a few weeks from finals, it can be a bit of a hastle.
Its been a while since we took any pictures, unless you want me to post the goofy ones of me and my uniform which is quite embarrassing. So we will leave it as it is =)

Cleaning up emails

2007-01-23T20:56:00.000+08:00

Is it time to get a life when you sit down for over an hour organizing what folder things should go into in your email? Sorry that it has been a while since the last update. Honestly we have not been doing much. We are having a stressful time at school...well I am anyway. Stuff about how the school should not work, yada yada...Ive over done myself with the complaints.
On the bright side, my duty has been going well. I am almost done with all my requirements and I think that I am doing fine. I am only having a difficult time with my healthcare lecture class because my teacher decides to quiz us on things that SHE taught last sem...it sucks i know

Happy New Year!

2007-01-07T11:50:00.000+08:00

The new year just started and so far its been pretty good. My New Year's Resolution is to lose 30 lbs and to stop eating meat except seafood. I really am hoping that I can do it this time. I am sure that I can. Only problem for me is the whole exercise thing, but then again I am climbing giant hills and 9 flights of stairs everyday. Eating no meat has been easy for me. The vegetables are so fresh here. I spent 3 hours the other day making dinner, and surprisingly (totally by accident) everything was completely vegan. Well, except for the yogurt that I also made.
So, I am sure that you read Joaquin's blog by now. IF not, then you will. He pretty much told and provided all the pics from our Christmas break. I got an ipod nano =D from Joaquin for my birthday! And I have to say that being 25 is no different then 24. But in a nutshell, we went to manila Dec 21-Dec 25, back to baguio, Dec 27-Dec 29 in Segada, back to baguio, Dec 31-Jan 1 Aringay, La Union. So, as you can see we were very busy. I dont think that I would of changed anything, except that if my dad could of stayed longer.

The end is here =(

2007-01-03T09:45:00.000+08:00

Just writing in here to let everyone know that I did not forget my blog. We just have been so busy. I have to leave for class now, and when i get back, i will update =D

Kate you would be so proud!

2006-12-05T21:20:00.000+08:00

Well, I decided to try to change my blog around. You would think that I was some kind of computer expert cuz i had to figure out all these codes (color codes, background) to make my blog become animated. But I owe most of the credit to my sister, kate. I clicked on a link she sent me through myspace. Myspace is great and all, but i like blogspot so much better. So if anyone has any ideas on what I should try to put on my blog (videos and suck) just let me know and quite possibly how to do it =)

Christmas is coming near!

2006-12-01T08:43:00.000+08:00

Today, we will buy a Christmas tree and the works. We are starting to have a lot of people over, friends and such, and it's kinda embarassing that it looks like we are not in the Christmas spirit. Over the next few days, we have no school. But at the same time we have a SUPER TYPHOON. How convenient for the school that the typhoon is hitting when we already have no school. Only in the Philippines, can they decide two days prior that we will be having 5 days of no school. Which, I am all for the whole "no school" thing but the problem is that they had to cancel my duty...again. So now I have to stay in school an extra week during the Christmas holiday, and have my duty on Dec. 23 the day after my birthday >.<. Too bad that is the day after my birthday. What can I do, though? My duty is like work, I just dont get paid. Joaquin asked me why we have to do this "duty" thing. And I told him that here in the Philippines, we are free labor. So they need us to find out information about our community. And since there are so many of "us" (nurses) they might as well take advantage. But eversince we started this sem, I am really beginning to feel like a real nurse. But don't tell my mother that.
Yesterday, at the school, there was a bomb threat. Probably some kid making a prank. But the thing is, why would they make a prank on a day that everyone has off? When my old highschool had bomb threats (I think we had a record of 32 one year) it was never on a weekend! Ah, the Philippines. Full of wonder. I think this place is growing on me lol

Another Day...

2006-11-21T21:08:00.000+08:00

So far, school has been...well not as stressful as last semester. I have Sundays and Mondays off so its kinda like having a weekend. Soon winter break will arrive, then we only will have Jan, Feb and half of March to go. Time seems to go by so fast here. I think maybe it's because I actually like it...
Well, this semester we start our duties. Mine is on Saturdays, and Joaquin's is on Wednesday. Kinda makes us fee special. I have to wear my nursing shirt, gray pants, black shoes, black socks, NO MAKEUP, my hair in a bun with only black hair things, and...a HAIRNET! What am I? A Nurse? or the next school cafeteria lady?
There is absolutely no romancing this photo.
I might as well taken a picture of my stupid hairnet hair. Oh well. We have to carry around a black bag like we are doctors cuz it has all sorts of stuff in it...surgical gloves, syringes, gauze, bandage scissors, etc...and all we do with it is keep our paperwork in them >.<
So after duty, we decided to go to a little party downstairs. We needed to unwind a bit. We ate Kabbobs and had a great time with our Persian friends. They really mean a lot to us, and helped us in many ways. We are so lucky to have friends like that...and they can cook! Ok, I was going to put some more pics up but for some reason its not working...so you have to deal with this stupid one of me =P

The K is back!

2006-11-06T08:45:00.000+08:00

We just arrived from the States and we had an awesome vacation. At times it was a bit stressful because we have been running around all over the place. Ok, Im an idiot, I cant figure out how to change my profile photo, so it will have to do.
Today is Monday, and tomorrow is my first day of school. Of course the school is giving us a hardtime. They keep trying not to accept more of my classes, even though I spoke with the dean several time. But I am happy with my current classes so I guess I will deal with my "problems" later.
My friend Kristine here is so nice. She actually made me a pair of earings while I was gone. She switched her schedule so that we would have the same healthcare. I need her as my translater anyway. Im glad i brought her a lot of "pasalubong".
Here is a great pic of all of us at Catfish Dewey's! Joaquin and Jesse had a catfish eating contest...I know, its weird.

Mmmmmmm....yummy...catfish =P

While we were on vacation, we went camping...something that I havent done in a long time. We had a great time
even though this pic doesn't exactly spell out "fun".

aw, how cute, hencho en mexico finally gets the girl lol

I love you all and miss you!

The Update You All Have Been Waiting For

2006-09-11T15:49:00.000+08:00

Yes, finally, I am writing in the blog again. We just finished taking our midterms. Now all we have left are our finals =/ We are preparing to go home Oct. 16. I am still working out the details, but I believe we are leaving LA on Oct. 19 or 20th (we gotta help Joaquin's grandma prepare for her flight to Canada and I think she leaves Oct. 19) for Utah. Then on Oct 22nd I will fly to Florida. Joaquin will meet up later, and we will leave for LA most likely on Nov. 1. We have to leave the country by Nov. 1 and it looks like our flight will be Nov. 1 but at 11:50pm. Then back here again to our stressful student living.
We are currently looking for another apartment, and I think we found one. It is a little smaller than our current one, but it is way closer to the school and we should be able to get DSL =D Then we can put pictures up again and the works. Im so excited lol
On a serious note, I've had a crazy cough for over two weeks now. I saw the student doctor, and she told me my throat is just irritated. Joaquin is afraid because of the last incident. I am not afraid because I dont have a fever or anything.
We have a lot of friends now who have been very helpful. We are even becoming popular amongst the Foreign Students (not including the Phil Ams). School is a bit tough, but we found out that its among all Foreign students. Why is it that amongst the Foreign students we have the same habits (freaking out about rediculously long lines, stupid group projects, us ALWAYS doing all the work in group projects...) I thought it was just a problem because I am American and I freak out about time and order, but it seems its amongst ALL the foreign students. So I find it funny that it seems that EVERY country practices the same habits except here =/ Its kinda a running joke amongst us, and now I cant help but laugh. I cant picture any of my friends in the States really surviving here without truely FREAKING out. But I am used to it, and I rather enjoy it here, especially in Baguio. Even my Filipino friends think that things are pretty weird, but they just dont know what to do about it. Everyone just accepts things how they are and dont ask why.
It is hard to imagine that I am not going to be in these classes after next month (unless something terribly goes wrong). No one passed the "Devil's" exam. Only here have I seen anyone give exams on things that they never taught. I am hoping that everything will be curved and I am just stressing out for nothing. But I know that next Sem, I definately gotta do something about my schedule because this one really sucks lol

Joaquin Kline for President!

2006-08-25T12:00:00.000+08:00

Yup, you guessed it, Joaquin became president of something else...Foreign Students. And he begged them not to nominate him, but it was unanimous. Well, he is very intelligent and political and I would have voted for him as well. I said to him, if you are president does that make me "First Lady of the Foreign Students"? I don't know if I like that idea lol. Then people will be watching me and what i wear...like the Prettier Imelda Marcos lol
Joaquin's friend is coming by tomorrow and I know that Joaquin is so excited. So on to some strange news...Tuesday is my first "bed bathing " return demo. That's right, we have to demonstrate on how to bathe a patient...and our patients are not maniquins =( I have to bathe my partner and its not Joaquin lol We are allowed to wear shorts but thats about it. So, my classmate (good thing we are friends now) is gonna "clean" my... areas.
Damn, I dont know why this is happening to me, but I am in an internet cafe, and I already moved my seat once because the person sitting next to me smelt really heavily of cigarettes. SO I move to an isolated corner, and of all the chairs, someone else sits next to my exposed side, and he smells like cigarettes! Good thing I am not eating anywhere near here or I wouldnt be hungry anymore. Actually, this current person is not as bad as the last so its more tolerable.
guess what, Im sick again lol Its from the freakin mold in my house. We have someone cleaning it twice a week. ANd we are getting a dehumidifyer. Yet, I am sick again. Same problems...painful throat, uncontrollable coughing spasms at night, slight fever, headaches...blah blah blah. WOrse part is that we all know what happens when I miss school =( So I gotta put up with it. At least my allergies are not acting up.
We are probably going to move. WE keep getting weird problems. We received our electric bill and found out that its triple the amount that it normally is! We spoke with our landlord and we all think that maybe someone is tapping into our wire...again lol It just doesnt make any sense because last month we had 3 people living in one house, which one was home most of the time. Now its only two of us and we are ALWAYS at school. So we are not sure what's going on.
Mid terms are about 2 weeks away so I am gradually studying. My Philippine History teacher is still psychotic and I have no idea what she is talking about. She compares the constitution to a seashore...
I just know that next semester I am not taking any class earlier than 1030 and I am not going to have any breaks in between so that it goes by fast...faster. I cant believe its almost September. I am so excited to go home!

Time for the blog

2006-08-18T12:04:00.000+08:00

Well, what can I say today? I have a few exams to take today, and unfortunately they are in classes that it doesnt really matter what my grade is. My physics teacher said to me "why are you going to be a nurse, if you are so good in physics?" I just shrugged my shoulders...dont tell anyone I am good in physics. I dont want my secret out. Physics is one of those classes that I dont even need to do that well in. So, i decided to concentrate on my major classes and not study so hard for physics (unfortunately, im not even studying for physics and I have an A =( so I guess it doesnt really matter). My Philippine History teacher is still psychotic, making it mandatory to watch stupid movies on OUR own time...or skip our other classes to watch it. That was basically what she said. Fortunately the time that she had scheduled, I already had the time off.
We are having people over this weekend so that should be fun. Speaking of those people, one of them says he has a "guy" to get us broadband.. So Joaquin has a "guy" who has a "guy" who can get us broadband. So far with my experience with a "guy" it seems that its all in the imagination... But we will see. But Monday we have the day off because it is "Ninoy Aquino Assaniation Day". Sounds weird, but at least I get a day off =)
Joaquin and I havent been doing much lately. Just playing video games and surfing the web. Its a student life, which we dont have much of hehe. So I have been thinking a lot about going home, Christmas, etc...things that will come much sooner than we all think. Especially since the weeks have gone by so fast. Well, I dont have much more to say, so I am going to start posting my Christmas/Bday wish list =)
1. IPod Nano
2. Scrap book stuff
3. Clothes
4. Hair assessories (very big here)
5. Sweat shirts
6. Will post later if I can think of anything else...oh a hair straightener =)

Please, if anyone has a blog and wants to put their holiday wish list on it, let me know so I can see =) Remember I am coming home for about 3 weeks in October and that is it, so if you want your pasalobong let me know now. Or I am just gonna get you whatever...again

PS. The mold is still bad, and its evolving =(

Living in Baguio and loving it

2006-08-11T12:11:00.000+08:00

Just so that everyone knows, my last post was totally not ranting on about how I dont like the Philippines. On the contrary, I actually really like where I live right now. I think that before I was so miserable because the weather was so damn hot and you just sweat a lot. I was also in a school that was very small and they weren't exactly up to date on things. Here at least things make sense, and I would recommend Baguio City as a great retirement for anyone who doesnt like it too hot or too cold.
And Kate, for the record, I read your blog (and believe you might notice I also comment) everytime you post it. It gets emailed to me =) But if you decide to start using blogger, it's better for you because it is free.

I know, its been a while

2006-08-09T11:57:00.000+08:00

I've been trying to find a cafe that had good internet. I finally found one, so I should be able to keep up on my blog. To bring everyone up to speed...I lost the damn pageant, Joaquin had to speak in front of the entire Nursing student body for no apparent reason at all, and I filed a formal complaint on two of my teachers. Oh yeah, we have rediculous amount of mold growing all over our house and its driving us nuts.
The pageant is forgotten, so Im not gonna talk about that. Im just glad that is over with. So on to Joaquin's public speaking. Joaquin had made some friends in some high places in the school. I dont know if that is a good thing or a bad thing. They nominated him to speak for our Nursing Day...without him even knowing there was a nomination. They dont tell him what to say, so there is nothing prepared. We show up, on our day off none the less (Sunday), and he introduced Nursing Day. All went well, there were games and competitions. To our dismay, he ended up hardly speaking at all. So it was a complete waste of our time because we live a bit far from the school and Sunday is our only day off during the week. I went home and he stayed to help his friend make a slide show for the presentation. The Nursing Day event lasted from 9AM-11PM and for most of the part it was MANDATORY to go. I just signed my name and I am sure I will be fine.
On to the formal complaint. I got sick again last week. I couldnt swallow, I had fever, and all my lymph nodes in my neck were swollen (which reminds me I have a quiz on that today). So I happen to miss three days of school, meaning I missed 2 consecutive classes in a row for my MWF class. Now, the school policy is that if you miss 3 consecutive classes in a row, the teacher has the "option" to drop you. And I agree with that, especially if you are unexcused. So I show up to my General Zoology lab, and my teacher tells me that I need to go to the guidance office to get readmited back into the school. It was the craziest thing that I have ever heard of. Now this particular teacher always gives me a hard time. I dont know why, but every semester I find one of these. I tell him "Sir, I only missed 2 days, not 3". He tells me that it doesnt matter and I need to see a guidance counselor. Well, I find out that I have a 90 in that class so why is he giving me a hard time? And it wasn't like I was skipping, I really was sick and I even had an excuse slip from the school clinic that I could not go to school.
So I go to the guidance office, mind you he is making me miss my current class as it is, and I fill out a million paperwork because people love paperwork here. Finally I get to see the guidance counselor, and she signs the paper. Before I leave, I say to her "you know what, I am seriously going to file a complaint on this teacher." She says "so you are going to fill out a formal complaint?" So I tell her everything. I tell her about why I was there. That he always gives me a hard time, talking to me in a demeaning manner and such. Blah blah blah. And I explain to her that I am actually top of my classes, so why am I being harassed? I can understand if I am skipping school all the time and I am failing but I was not. She tells me that she will definately talk to him because it seems that he is not following school policy and that I should not be in the guidance office in the first place. I also had a complaint about my other teacher, but that is even a longer story.
Now this only happened at 930 in the morning Monday. I am not even done explainig how weird my day was. So I go to my Philippine History class at 130 after lunch and telling Joaquin what happened to me. All of a sudden a woman walks in, and I have a male teacher. I guess, there was a schedule conflict with my current teacher and he was in a "case" whatever that means. So, she was now our new teacher for the next semester. Ok, that's not too weird because this is the Philippines and unexpected things happen all the time. But then she gives us an assignment, that we have to act out a play for 20min about Philippine history, and its due next meeting! And of course I am automatically picked as leader which I wasnt that upset over because I just wrote the script and I am making the rest of the group members act it out.
Lastly, on to the mold growing all over the house. Its from the crazy moisture thats in the air. We have something like 94% humidity all the time because of rainy season. So the mold is growing. Anything that is real leather, has mold (now I know what is real and what is not). Thank God, I left my pink suede purse at home in the states or it would totally be ruined. I am having enough trouble as it is with that purse. Anything that is made of wood has mold...my dresser, our desks, the vanity, and the freaking wall. Just last Sunday, I bleached anything that had mold on it (and I inhaled a good amount of it too) and wiped everything down. And now, I see that it's growing back! I am not sure what to do. I blame it on our "lack of a maid" situation. Not sure if everyone heard the story about the last one, but lets just say it didnt work out. SO we went to the sari-sari store next door and started advertising for a maid to come twice a week. I think we might have found someone, but we are not sure. It's just that I dont have time to keep up with the damn mold, and I think that is why i got sick last week. It's so disgusting, and we dont want to move because we really like our cozy apartment.
Ok, I hope this brought everyone up to date. Until another day.

I don't know what the hell is going on...

2006-07-18T11:08:00.000+08:00

I am informed today, at 7:30 AM that the pageant will be held TOMORROW, not on Saturday. I am not too sure what to do. And even if it were on Saturday, my practical exam for Healthcare will be on Saturday morning. I am not too sure what to make of all this. And, if I end up winning the pageant, there will be another one to go to on Monday...Ugh. It's quite crazy. I never thought I would see the day I would have to enter pageants past the age of 15. And the other contestants do not even know of this change. I contacted one coordinator, they said its on Sat, but the other one says tomorrow. So, all I can do is go home, get my things, and pray to God I don't look like a fool tomorrow or saturday. This school needs to concentrate more on acedemics and less on extra curricular activities.

Might still be hope for wow

2006-07-16T17:31:00.000+08:00

We finally got some sort of internet on our computer at home. So now we really have no excuse not to email anyone. Its a dial up connection, and it seems alright. I tried downloading the new patch for wow, and it seems it might take literally 100hours. So, I am going to go to an internet cafe and sneak my downloads through them. I can just save it onto me USB thumbdrive. Hopefully it works. I am so close and yet so far.
Jasmine (my dog) is doing better according to my family back home. She is going to loose all her toes in that leg, but it doesnt seem to dampen her spirits. I still love her the same.
I am really hoping that our skype will work fine. If not, we should be able to use chat.
Its been raining nonstop for days. Luckily my pageant was postponed until God knows when. Oh, if I havent mentioned this before, I was nominated to be in the Ms Nursing pageant. Like I am not stressed out enough.
Anyway, it was not just rain, it was a typhoon/monsoon. Really windy. I thought it was a hurricane. I didnt realize what was going on until I arrived at school and noticed no one was there. We had a few landslides in town, but Joaquin and I are fine. Still going out and stuff. Its kinda weird when we go to the mall, and its raining inside. We had to use our umbrellas inside the mall on our way to the movies.
Another chapter in our life was closed because during the weekend we had to let our helper go home for good. It wasn't working out to well. The whole language barrier got us and the simple fact that we found out that she is 14 not 18 =(
We saw Pirates of the Carribean over the weekend and I really liked the movie. Im not sure what is next. I am kinda glad that we are so busy with school because there really isnt much to do around here.

I MISS WOW

2006-06-27T13:19:00.000+08:00

I am beginning to be majorly stressed out because of school. I have one day off a week. It's absolutely insane. You would think that it's illegal. Well, its not here. And to think even my bowling is becoming stressful. Basically, we have given up on trying to get a faster internet. I might go to the mall today to at least get dial up. Not much use for WoW or skype. I am thinking about writing a letter to the Senator =) Surprisingly, all of my teachers are extremely political and out spoken. I never really hear anyone here give an opinion until I came here.
They tried to get me to run for Governor (President) of the Nursing School for my year, but I am so stressed out I dont think I can handle it. I did manage to join Green Peace =) I am the auditor for my Healthcare class (Gee, I wonder why...) The only thing that I managed to do was go to the hairdresser, and that's only because I have one at my school.
I have been crying for a couple of days because of terrible news about my dog. It hasn't been a pleasant couple of weeks. SO far, the only good thing is that I am making a few friends.
I was thinking about asking one of the internet cafe's here if I could put my game on one of their computers, but all the comps here are only 256k in RAM =( I need at least 1G. I dont know what to do =(

The Beginning of Real Nursing

2006-06-15T10:16:00.000+08:00

I finally met my real instructers for my healthcare lab. They seem to be no nonsense type of people, but yet they still try and make the students feel comfortable. They asked us what the real reason why the students are taking up nursing. Most of the responses were that their parents or grandparents had chosen it for them. It sounded a little sad, because in nursing you need the heart to be able to help people. I guess they will come to learn to love the profession. I did meet a new friend today. Her name is Gladys, and she was very friendly. Always talking to me, which is more than most people that I have met here. Most likely, we will have the next 2 years together, and hopefully I can be comfortable enough with her as my...bath partner (only other nursing students will know that I mean that in the most unsexual way). I don't need to go into any details. I will have to see how things go, because for all I know I might make friends with someone else. Quite possibly find a best friend somewhere. I hope so. Friends can be so hard to come by. Unfortunately, she is not in my lecture class, so maybe I might have to find someone else. By the stroke of luck, Gladys ended up in the same group as I am so that's a good sign. As I said yesterday, I keep making friends and end up getting a new seat assignment. I do like this school a lot better than my last one. They are more mature here, and for the first time people are silent when the teacher is talking. I am really not looking forward to "recitations" ( last time I did a recitation was in the 5th grade) but I guess I should be fine. I am not as good as memorizing things as the good Filipinos here. I barely memorized the Apostle's Creed. Good thing that most of the time, its displayed on the wall for me to recite.
Well, I was told yesterday that they line to our house for Viacom is too long, but not all hope is lost. I told them that I am willing to pay for them to put the line in. Maybe that's what stopping the internet companies here from coming down. I do know that we used to have cable (we plugged in the tv and it worked, but then it was shut off) so it should not be a problem. I feel bad because Michele (our live in helper) has really not much to do. I found her yesterday very upset. I dont know if she was upset because she fell asleep and did not here us knocking on the door, or if its her family. I just know that I can only do so much. I just feel so bad for her. She is so far away from her family, and I know how she feels. But at least I have Joaquin when I left. She has no one, and we can barely communicate with her. I did purchase another English-Tagalog dictionary to try to help me, but I really need to find a tutor. I might post on Baguio online again.

Today is a new day

2006-06-14T12:14:00.000+08:00

I am surrounded at the moment with people all playing Warcraft 3. I am extremely jealous. I tried the game, and I like it, but it is nothing compared to WoW. I might join their game but kinda afraid to. These people seem too serious =) Today was a little different. I tried something new to turn my situation around. I decided that in every class that I go to, I am going to introduce myself to someone new. Usually, I have been picking the person next to me, but that is proving to be a failing situation because now my instructors are becoming inclined to move the class around =( Right when I find someone interested in me, I have to move. Its ok, because I will just say hi to them again at next class.
I dont know why this ALWAYS happens to me, but I have been made leader of my zoology lab. Well, now that I think about it, it cant be that bad. This is my first step to be a vet and this way I have more control of what my grade is. As we speak, I am researching compound microscopes. So far, my first teacher spoke only in English (happens to be physics, and I dont know how they can teach physics in tagalog). My zoology lab was taught in tagalog, but I spoke with the teacher and he seems fine with talking in English. Actually, he was quite apologetic for not speaking it in the first place. I am hoping that I may use a locker here because all my classes so far require me to bring my book, and I dont think the little bag I purchased can handle it all. I dont think Joaquin will be too happy with me purchasing yet another bag. Viacom should be surveying the house right now, cross your fingers =)

New School Jitters

2006-06-13T08:48:00.000+08:00

Maybe I am interpreting this wrong, but I think the last day of our exams is Oct. 2. I am not sure though. Check out the website and tell me what you think www.ubagio.edu/facilities/facilityview/aspx
Well, so far, my first day is not looking so promising. We were late for school because the jeep was 15 min late. But it wasn't too bad for me, because the teacher wasn't there by the time I got there. I did my usual, and told my teacher when he arrived that I did not understand tagolog. He gave me a hard time about it, and announced to the class that if we do not know the language, we need to know or we can't do our duty. I don't know why he put me on the spot like that. And we found out the hard way that I am the only person in the class (supposedly I am going to be with the same students for the next 3 years) who does not speak the language. The class is supposed to be broken up into 3 groups because it is too large. I am sure people are praying that they dont get me in their class. I dont really care, actually, if I get discriminated against. I know I am not the only person in this entire school that only knows English (Joaquin excluded). It is scaring me a little because the teacher said that I better learn, especially Illocano because I won't be able to communicate with the patients. What are the chances I can do my duty in the States?
They gave me a break for a couple of hours so they can figure out what our new schedule is like. I can cross my fingers and hope they have my class start at 930 instead of 730. But with my luck, it will be at 730-830, then I will have nothing to do for 2 hours =(
My next class is at 1030 (physics lab) and hopefully it will go better. Maybe I shouldn't tell the teacher that I don't understand a word that they are saying. Then they won't look at me like such an idiot. You see, they don't mind Joaquin not understanding. He looks the part. But they look at me like Im supposed to know better. Maybe I should know better, but I have been living in an English speaking country for 22 years. You would think they would cut me some slack. And everyone was scared to speak to me, all cowering when I came close. I understand that they are shy, but why do they have to make me feel like a leper. Granted, I walked in dripping sweat, but that should give no reason for them to think I was some 50ft woman. This is a more mature class aswell. No one was younger than 17.
I never used to hate the first day of school until I moved here. I couldn't sleep all night because I had the new school excitement. But I didnt expect the unwelcome stares from the people here. At least in my last school, people were curious as to what I was all about. Here, people looked at me like I had an arm growing out of my head. And now, I am scared to death to do my duties here because no one is going to have ANY idea what the hell I am talking about.
The water keeps coming in and out. When i go home, I have to call a plumber. Maybe they can fix it. But it sucks not knowing when the next time you can take a shower. Whenever I see water, I am going to take a shower regardless if I took one earlier.
Hopefully, this Viacom thing goes well. It comes with free cable (meaning, im not allowed to have any other cable). So, we went to the cable company that we had a contract with, and told them the surveyers said we were too far (for once it worked to our advantage), which is what they told us. I had called Viacom, the engineer department, and they told me they already had a line down where we live. As I said in my last blog, all I can do is pray that nothing else will go wrong.

Frustrated again

2006-06-12T12:49:00.000+08:00

Our water ran out twice in the past 4 days...Ugh. So yesterday, I flipped out. I also fell down the stairs. I thought that the only thing I hurt was my pride, but I think my thumb is sprained. Guess I should invest in an ace bandage. Ok, so my high speed internet thingy fell through. They are claiming yet again that our area is too far and we are unable to get it. Fortunately, I called a place today called Viacom and they said that they service my area for broadband. I know that I have cable so it should be able to work. All I know is that I cant stop praying. Then, as we went upstairs, we noticed that the water was filling again. One of our pipes was broken so that is why we were running out of water fast. I thought it was the maid using up too much water washing our clothes (hence me falling down the stairs). I was so frustrated this morning that I wanted to cry, but things are looking up...I think. I can't get my hopes up, we all know what happens when we do that. Ok, I cant type much more, my thumb is killing me. Oh, by the way, for those who are interested, I think it would be a good idea if we got an owner =-)

PS, since we got the maid, the scorpions seem to have vanished =)

Hopefully WoW is not history!

2006-06-10T12:58:00.000+08:00

I dont have much time. I have to go back to my stupid social orientation at school. I know love myself so much its ridiculous. Anyway, as we speak, High Speed Wireless should be coming to the house to see if we can get highspeed. Cross your fingers, and I will play WoW as soon as I can =)

Waiting for the movies

2006-06-07T18:42:00.000+08:00

Well, the pics never came out. I am hoping that we are able to get wireless internet, so that I can add them in. We are waiting at a local internet cafe before we see a movie (this time it's the Omen) and I figured I should write in my blog. Even though I am almost positive no one is reading my blog because I never get any comments...
We got a live in maid recently, and she is a nice girl. We are sending her to school so that she may get something out of working for us. She just makes sure our clothes are done, house is clean and food is cooked. We also broke down and finally bought a TV. We got a great deal because it was from a Japanese surplus store, and all of their TVs are 110v (the philippines is 220v). Luckily, our new apartment is completely wired with 110v =)
We start school on Monday, and I am sad to say I am a little excited. We didnt expect our enrollment to go by so smoothly so we could have stayed in the states for an extra couple of weeks. So we've been mainly kicking back and relaxing.
Joaquin and I are on this major weird diet (since I cant work out anymore). We eat normal one day, then the next we eat less than 1000calories. Sounds weird but I think it's working...for Joaquin. I am doing exactly what he is doing but I look the same. I still dont eat meat, only seafood, and that has also been working for me. I feel a little healthier.
I miss my family a lot, especially my dad. I haven't really talked to him much, but I still miss him more than ever. I wish that people could come visit here. It would be nice. We always go home and run around all over the place. I would like to show people what we really do here...which is next to nothing. We live in a much more livable climate, and the people are real nice here. I get things done around here, instead of expecting to get hustled all he time.
Ok, the movie should be starting soon. We go to the movies a lot because it only costs us about a $1.50 =P If we get the wireless, I promise to edit my last blog and put pics in.

Pics...I think

2006-06-04T15:16:00.000+08:00

Last night, we had several scares just before we went to bed. First, Joaquin found an almost dead baby scorpion on our bathroom floor. I have no idea where it came from but I know that they have quite a sting and are poisonous. In some animals, the babies are more poisonous than the adults, because they are more vulnerable to predators. I never studied the insect variety, so I am not that knowledgeable about the subject. All I know is that I don’t need a scorpion in our house. So now we have to make it a point to shake our shoes out before we slip our feet into them or we might get an unpleasant surprise. Also, we have to check inside our sheets. Its bad enough we found a wolf spider in our room the other day and that freaked me out. I am about to grab a bunch of geckos outside and place them in the house as permanent residents.
Then, as we were watching a movie on my portable DVD player (yes, we still have no TV for all you non believers), “Life without Dick” I felt something crawling on my hand. Sure enough, it was a roach. Not huge, but still scared the daylights out of me especially after we just saw the scorpion. Joaquin thoroughly killed it (and I have no remorse over it) but all night I was jumpy. I had to tuck the sheets all over my body, and I couldn’t sleep. I can tolerate most bugs, but 2 poisonous ones and one crawling on me is enough for one week. I have to literally run to the bathroom at night =(
Anyhoo, I am finally writing my blog ahead of time so here are some pics from our trip back from the states:

We went to New Mexico just before we went home. We had a great time. This is in Taos. I love this pic of Pam, she is so cute!
What’s up with the two kids and the shovels? This is not the beach!

Same place in Taos, New Mexico. It’s of the pueblos…

Doesn’t the sun’s ray make me look like an angel? If you knew me, you would know the truth.

This is my favorite picture. You think that it’s boring, just picture of Kate standing on a ledge, but little does anyone know dirt was blowing in her face…

So, I did what any good sister would do…I zoomed in lol

IF LOOKS COULD KILL…

This was the day that we went back home…on Joaquin’s Birthday (we wont mention how old ugh!)

I had way more from before we went to New Mexico, but these pics are post new camera. I still have to upload the pics from pre new camera. So, for next time, I will have more for you =)

Coping with no DSL =(

2006-05-29T11:47:00.000+08:00

I guess this no internet thing is not all that bad (or so I keep telling myself). Yesterday we did a bit of spontaneous exploring. We hopped on a jeep, and went down our road LOL. Well, down our road is a good hour away. We went to Asin Hot Springs. Its not what you would think it would be. Well, Im sure that my family knows what its like... a pool. But Joaquin was quite surprised that it wasn't mountains, rocks, waterfalls, etc... What can we really expect? Well, it was nice and refreshing. The "hot spring" was barely luke warm because after all it was a pool. They did have these rooms that they fill up with the sulfur water, and it was so hot. It turned the room into a steam room. I liked that part, plus it was only P200 for an hour (which I could barely stand 20 min). I think I am going to the store today, and try to find one of those cool spa outfits =) We decided that we are going to try to do that at least once a month. It's worth the adventure.
So now, we have 2 weeks til school starts, and I am not sure if we are going to be able to go to Boracay. I think I might have upset my uncle by changing my dates too much. I was hoping that I could get a tan before school starts, since everyone thinks I "look so healthy" with it. I don't understand this country...First they tell you, you cant look too dark. Then I get a little sun by accident, and I look "healthy".
Oh, another thing that I wanted to mention about the "hot springs". You have to really look for the one where it costs a little more money to feel a little more comfortable. Not that the facilities are any better, but I noticed that if you swim in the pool that is P20 cheaper, everyone is wearing T-Shirts and shorts while swimming! I know that everyone is self conscience about their bodies, who isn't? But I was feeling more uncomfortable to show myself in my one piece bathing suit. I was actually contemplating going swimming in my shirt and pants. But we were still on a mission to find the actual "hot springs" ( our first stop was just a pool). So we walked about half a km down hill and found a nice resort. For P20 more, people are actually wearing bathing suits and not clothes in the water. It was also about 10% less crowded. Plus, we wouldn't have discovered the sulfur baths.
I do have to remember to write this on word, so I can try to put some pics in and come to this internet cafe and put it in my blog...Im going to lose weight just trying to go online =(
So Joaquin and I are doing our special diets. I feel like I am a little thinner... I am also going to try to look for a yoga instructor, since we are unable to go online for long periods of time. So, all of you Karen enthusiests...until next time.

What! No DSL?!!!

2006-05-27T12:07:00.000+08:00

That's right, there is no high speed internet where we live. We thought we were in the most perfect location, just to find no internet. Oh boy. Now what do we do? LOL Joaquin taught me how to play cribbage today ( Im sure I spelt that wrong, but dont really care }:-)
I think I did fairly well, even though I got "skunked" three times. Everytime, I was catching up more and more. Considering that we really have nothing else to do, I have a feeling I might quickly become a pro.
We are still in the process of looking for a live in maid. It is proving to be quite difficult just to get our laundry done. I called one place, and they didnt show up for their pick up. I guess I should try to call another one. I didnt realize how far we really live. It must be about 3Km away from town, and people here think we live on a whole other planet. I tell them "Asin RD" and they go nuts. What can you do?
I really want to do this hiking trip into the mountains sometime soon. It would be a 5 day trip. i dont know if I will make it, so if I dont write in my blog soon, you might want to notify the authorities.
I did find an absolutely perfect spa to take the place of my old one in manila. I paid about 1150 peso for a full body massage, facial, foot scrub, manicure and pedicure. I think I might think twice about the facial. I dont have the patience to just lay around for an hour. Plus, when I was done, I think the avocado from my avocado mask seeped too much into my pores. I was leaking avocados from my eyes almost til the next day! Joaquin said he could make a taco salad from my face! but other than that, the place was an absolute paradise. Actually, the facial was quite refreshing, and more relaxing than the one in manily. In case people are looking for spas in Baguio (I found this place out from a Blogspot site as well) It is called:

North Haven Spa
21 Avelino St Baguio
(074) 300-5022 or (0917) 506-1349

The place in Manila that I ALWAYS went to was named The Blue Moon Foot Spa. Great place, nice atmosphere, and quite inexpensive (which is always my favorite part)

ok, I will try to add pics later. Keep in mind, I can only write in my blog from an internet cafe =(

WE ARE MOVING!!!!!!!!

2006-05-22T03:27:00.000+08:00

We are moving to the northern part of the Philippines. I mean waaaaaaay northern. Joaquin and I are positively ecstatic. We started off last week, and found a great apartment and a great school. We are so excited about moving there. I know Joaquin is because the weather is so nice, we don't even need air conditioning (actually we don't even have one in our new apartment). I am just happy I can take hot showers again =)
This view here is the view from our apartment living room window.
I even have my own garden, and that is great. I am going to try to grow organic vegetables. Not that I know how, but I guess there is no good a time as any as now. We even have a dog house in the back yard, so I am having some thoughts....
I am well over do to talk about my trip back home to the states. I think I will once we settle because there are so many pics that I want to post. So, bye for now =)

A few changes

2006-04-13T01:25:00.000+08:00

So, I have been going to the gym everyday now since I arrived in Florida. I might even be a bit obsessed. I turned vegetarian (except fish) and I am feeling pretty good about myself. I am hoping to lose about 15 lbs before Joaquin gets here. I want to look good for him. Even though he says that he loves the way that I look as it is, I still would like to lose about 15lbs. I just dont feel healthy anymore. I think that this is the best way. I havent taken any pics yet, so that will wait =( I am going with my "sister-in-law" to a stamping club meeting on Friday. I think that might be interesting. I will see how things go.

Back to Normal

2006-04-05T05:36:00.000+08:00

Well, I thought that I was gonna spend the next month and a half relaxing. I guessed wrong. Back to the usual hectic life of the good ole U S of A =) Strangely, I enjoy it. I enjoy working for my dad. Now he is a lot busier than we used to be. I guess all that praying finally paid off. Now I have other things to pray for. I like being so busy that I cant even eat. Then I can loose a few pounds before Joaquin shows up. I decided to become Vegetarian again. I just feel so much healthier not eating meat. I am supposed to go out tonight with my friends. I am kinda excited. I will see how things go =)

The Best Deal in All of Manila

2006-03-28T11:43:00.000+08:00

What is a travel day without a little adventure? My grandmother's neighbor agreed to help Joaquin and I to go to the airport this morning, of course for a fee. Everything was reasonable. Then, as we enter into the departure lane, we stop for the security inspection. Usually they just let us by, but we of course were stopped. I believe it was my luck that drew their attention. The police officer asked if we rented the car. Being an American, our defintion of renting a car would be paying for a car regardles who drives it. My response to the question was yes. I guess that was the wrong answer. Everything was spoken in Tagalog and they were speaking too fast for me to understand. So, I let Joaquin get out of the car, and I would take care of it. Ended up being, if you are a tourist, you can ONLY use a taxi. I was able to talk to the police officer to let the men keep their drivers license, but I believe at that point my boobs did most of the talking. Even though my outfit is not revealing or provacative, but i did notice the officers smile.
After all that is taken care of, we enter into the airport, go through checkin and of course have problems yet again at immigration. Having to pay a 2100 peso fine for yet another piece of paper we did not know about. Go figures.
So during our frustration, Joaquin and I stomped through the airport clearly upset, when we were stopped by a "lounge sales" agent. They had a special lounge where you can stay til you board, with a buffet, 10 min scalp massage, and 15 min internet access for basically $10. Man, it was the best deal I have ever seen in all of Manila. We had Caffe Mochas, and an accessable shower. Everything that we wanted came with the deal with unlimited drinks including alcoholic beverages. Oops, I have to board the flight =) See everyone soon!

Well, I did not count on a 7 hour stop over in Tapei. Quite crazy. We are mainly roaming around the airport figuring out what we are going to do. I think an hour passed and I only get 30 min on this comp. Its kinda empty on this side of the airport so hopefully no one will notice how long I am intending on being here. So, let me discuss something. Let's discuss seals. The white fluffy ones. The ones that are only 12 weeks old. Well, as we speak, they are being slaughtered in Canada. And for what you ask? So that some fishermen can make a few extra dollars to buy their flat screen televisions. I dont see how that can possibly be humane. I have been keeping up to date with them since I heard about the event even going to happen. I cried when I saw the futage of the slaughter. The snow was covered in a red blanket. And to make matters worse, they are killing these seals with clubs. Bashing them in the head. 12 week old seals, completely defenseless including their mothers. All the mothers can do is watch her pups get slaughtered in the snow. I dont know how anyone can possibly live with themselves afterwards. It makes you disguisted to even be a human being. That's why I think I can make a great vet. I think I can really make a difference. I like to learn all about animals, and to fix them when they are completely defenseless. It's only right that someone has to.

Getting better

2006-03-19T17:55:00.000+08:00

I think I am getting better now. Not that anything has changed, but I am beginning to accept what is to be. People their entire lives just "live with" what was given to them. I just thought that maybe I can do better then "live with" my problems. But, I can do it. I always have and always will.

Beware of the Rant

2006-03-18T13:30:00.000+08:00

I am beginning to think that what's important to me doesnt really matter anymore. My goals are stretching so far that I can no longer see them. I dont know what I am supposed to do anymore. I dont really care about much anymore. And so what if I am self loathing. I think that any normal human being would be if they were running around in circles. People telling you to stop being depressed over what happened a minute ago. I have to be a mindless shell. Let bad things happen and not worry about it. And I wonder about God. What is He doing? A test? or a sign? Im not sure. But you dont want to read about this. I need to be happy. I need to be strong. I need to be me. But I just dont know. I think the "me" is being bled dry. I have no one to talk to, but this blog...which I guess would be the public. We have our own problems, why should I expect anyone to care about mine? That's just it. I am not supposed to have problems. I am supposed to forget that there is no hope anymore. The corruption of this world has soiled the minds of the innocent, and I just dont care anymore.
So go ahead and tell me that I am not supposed to feel this way. That you are SICK of me feeling sorry for myself. Well how about someone feel sorry for me for a change and want to talk to ME about it. Because I am a human being whether or not people want to believe it. And sometimes I just need to talk to someone.

The stress is beginning to build...

2006-03-16T22:57:00.000+08:00

Well, the time is drawing near and I am slowly freaking out. But the funny part is that I really have nothing to freak out about. I am basically all packed (since I have to pack light anyway) and have taken care of everything well in advanced. I have two exams scheduled tomorrow, and my last one is on Sunday (dont ask me why). We've already experienced several problems, all of which were quickly solved. We are going to the University of Baguio on Saturday, so we have to leave tomorrow right after school. Quite a tight squeeze, and I will have to wear the same jeans for 4 days lol.
We saw a movie tonight called "the Dark". I do not know why they called it the dark. They made no reference to it, and it was quite confusing. I am just glad that I paid 110 pesos ($1=51 pesos atm) for it and not the usual $8.
Not too much for me to say except...Im Going Home!

The Excitement Rises

2006-03-13T22:52:00.000+08:00

Only 6 more days and we get to go home. I am so excited. I am not so excited to have to try to make money, but excited to go home. We are going to Baguio this weekend to try and tie up some loose ends. I hope that they dont loose our paperwork again. I dont want to think about loosing our last weekend before we go home, just so that we have to repeat what needs to be done.

Welcome to my blog...again

2006-03-12T08:12:00.000+08:00

Don't you hate it when people switch their email or blog sites a lot =). I think that I really did not have a choice in the matter. I was paying for xanga, and I didn't mind so much. But then, I was trying to get up to date with my internet technology and realized that my site is not RSS compatible =(. I would explain what that means, but I am not all that sure myself, LOL. Well, anyway, this site is free and Joaquin uses it so maybe it is a lot better. I have also noticed that some very repitable people use this blog site. Let's see how things go.
PS. Click on the Feed link to subscribe to my blog and you can see whenever I update it! ------------------------------------------------------>