One Year

[caption id="attachment_638" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Image courtesy of chocolatemoussebakery.com"][/caption]

Happy birthday to you, A Nurse's Note!

It has been a year since I started this beloved blog of mine and I seriously think that a very delicious chocolate mousse cake is in order. *clap*clap*clap*

Anyways, here are some random facts about my blog that actually made me wonder. Hmmm.

• 156 Posts


• 1 Page


• 5 Categories


• 14 Tags


• 201 Comments


• 23,332 views


• 0 Lovelife

Yes, I have to admit that this endearing blog of mine is, honestly, not doing good at all. I haven't been writing anything since my current job as a PACU nurse demands most, if not all, of my time and physical/emotional energy. Not to mention the boring fact that I have no PC at home and my mobile phone won't allow me to enter wordpress.com whenever I'm online. Crappy indeed, eh?

So, what's next for my lovely blog come 2009? Well, I seriously don't know. I don't want to preempt anything, really, but I'll probably try to post at least one entry a week. *fingers crossed* Plus, I'll attempt to post some photos from my phone just to add some spice in this tiny space of mine. I plan to visit some touristic spots here in Egypt next year and uploading images from these adventures would be seriously fun. I definitely can't wait! Yipee!

Until next time, then? Toodles!

Coffee, anyone?

So Sick

Yes, I'm currently sick with flu while typing this nifty and obnoxious entry. I think I got it from too much TV and relentless stress from work. Uggh.

Anyways, what have I been up to? Errr. Apart from work and more work, I've been collecting "GOSSIP" from all sides of our hospital. Haha. FYI, it has been my eternal hobby since my high school days to collect all sorts of "GOSSIP" from my trusty sources. Let me share some, if not the most, controversial gossip in our area.

1. A certain someone, boy 1, from our side of the fence has been recently joining another individual, boy 2, on the other side of the fence. They appear to be good friends on the outside but rumor has it that they've been more than that. Boy 1 has the so-called "guy-next-door" appeal that draws everybody's attention. Not to mention his silent demeanor during gatherings also adds a little mystery to his true nature. On the other hand, boy 2 has been on the other side of the fence for quite some time. Being one of the seniors makes him a notable figure during critical times. What have they been up to? Honestly, I don't know. What I do know is that boy 1 will be "moving in" with boy 2 early next year on the other side of the fence. Permanently. Do the math, okay?


2. My batchmate has been playing fire for about a month now with mother dearest. Having 2 girlfriends, one in the US and another in the Philippines, didn't stop him from getting naughty and nice with mother dearest. He appears "maangas" and playful most of the time and it certainly helped him to nail mother dearest. Consequently, mother dearest is uber friendly with everyone, myself included. I wonder how would mother dearest's family back home would react to this May-December love affair?


3. I just learned the other night that flat clown has been in a relationship with fiery biscuit for almost 3 months now. Flat clown has been jolly and care-free since day 1. He likes to make jokes and makes all occassions worry-free. Meanwhile, fiery biscuit has been, in my opinion, a b*tch. Apparently, fiery biscuit was still with her home-based ex-BF when flat clown made his intentions known. The funny thing here is the fact that everybody has branded flat clown as "not normal" when in reality he's "normal" as the word itself. My source also informed me that flat clown has been "plowing the field" for quite some time now and the house senior citizen, alongside younster A, does not suspect a single thing. Tsk. Tsk. Tsk.

Well, that's about it. I'll try to post some more "GOSSIP" some time in the near future. I have to clean my room today or else my housemates will have me evicted ASAP.

Coffee, anyone?

A Very Late Post

Finally.

After weeks of uncertainty, I have finally found the mental and physical strength to visit my beloved blog and write about my current state here in Egypt. This will be a short one due to time constraints but, nevertheless, I'll try to squeeze everything in to make this post worthwhile.

Y'all know that I'm currently in Egypt working as a Staff Nurse for the Operating Room Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (OR-PACU) at Dar Al Fouad Hospital. Yes, it is a specialized area and only a limited number of experienced personnel could get assigned there. Haha. Anyways, work has been very hard. I have to assess post-operative patients in a matter of minutes and intervene as soon as possible within, of course, the scope of my job description. Nakakapagod. By the way, I work for 12 hours a day so one could only imagine the state of my body after work. Haaay.

The Pinoy community here in Egypt is, as always, very pleasant. Everyone knows everyone. Not to mention that gossip's like tea here. Haha. Plus, whoever cooks "Sinigang" or "Nilagang Baka" is always a winner. I always get myself invited for dinner and it's always pleasing to feast on free Filipino Food. Yummy! Overall, it feels as if I never left the Philippines.

Touristic spots will have to wait. I plan to start my official Egyptian Escapade by the 2nd quarter of next year due to financial constraints. Plus, I direly need a decent camera to capture every detail. Haha. I certainly hope that I have enough money by that time for the expected expenses. Yikes!

Lovelife?! Errr. That's my biggest secret EVER. Haha. :)

There. I can't think straight right now due to the uncertainty of my laundry's state, not to mention the unpleasant status of the internet connection here. Haha. :p

Until next time, then, whenever that'll be.

Coffee, anyone?

Surprise?!

Wednesday, the 3rd day of September, 2008
23:00

To whom it may concern:

Greetings in the name of Saint Thomas Aquinas!

Last November, 2006, the Board of Nursing (BON), together with the Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC), has endowed the title "REGISTERED NURSE" to the 22-year-old, Pasig-born, batch 2006 Thomasian Nursing graduate, Juan Paulo G. Gultiano after successfully passing the June, 2006 Nurse Licensure Examinations (NLE), less the leakage.

In line with this, the aforementioned professional was able to successfully acquire an entry-level job as a STAFF NURSE for the DAR AL FOUAD HOSPITAL based in Giza, Egypt. He is currently on his connecting flight with 10 other nurses from Abu Dhabi International Airport to Cairo International Airport.

[caption id="attachment_613" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.org"][/caption]

Mr. Gultiano, or Paulo to most of his acquaintances and friends, has decided to keep his big and fat mouth shut about the said matter due to personal reasons. No specifics, sorry.

Nevertheless, he will continue to blog about his broken/ dark/ jaded/ twisted single pinoy life in the following weeks, when time permits. Also, he will be posting photographs of his Egyptian Expedition here or on his Multiply account. So, stay tuned.

He is seriously hoping for your kind consideration and wanton anticipation.

In St. Thomas,

:) :D :) :D :)
Juan Paulo G. Gultiano, RN

Egyptian Coffee, anyone?

Crazy Thoughts: Quotable Quotes 5

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What have I been up to lately? Nothing. I've been bumming around the house doing nothing but stare into the oblivion. My mind is wandering to the unknown, as we speak. Good thing my phone complained about the number of messages it contains. Haha.

I miss my college friends so bad. I've been reminiscing on a number of incidents back in college and it made me realize how much I value my classmates. *sigh* I feel soooo old. Grrrr.

• If it's not yours, it will never be yours no matter how much you are obsessed witrh it. But, if in case, just in case its is for you, it will always for you no matter how often you ignore it. - Rafaela Gutierrez


• Did you know that tears can sometimes be more special than smiles? For smiles can be given to anyone but tears are only shed for people we don't want to lose. - Monica Arugay


• Today is another day to be a blessing to the world. If yesterday was a bad day for you, set it aside. As one friend told me, "Yesterday ended last night. Today is a new day and a new start." Your happiness depends on you. It is your choice. You have the power to change your life, to be happy, abundant, and be a blessing to others. - Jeck Balog


• It's completely hard to TRUST someone when every time you try to, they start to LIE again. What's the lesson? Just listen but don't believe. - RC


• From Gossip Girl: "Why waste precious time dreaming, when waking life is so much better." - Dana Guevara


• Never say "I love you" if you don't really care. Never talk about feelings if they aren't really there. Never hold my hand if you're going to break my heart. Never say you are to if you never plan to start. Never look into my eyes if all you do is lie. Never say "Hello" if you really mean "Goodbye." Never say forever 'coz forever is a lie. - Ren


• I thank God for stitching people into the fabric of my life. They are colorful patterns and personalities that add richness to who I am. Thanks for being one of my precious threads. - Christian Guevarra


• When you hug someone, never be the first to let go. You'll never know, it could be the last. - Carina Camacho


• Criticism is tough to swallow. But in the end, it tends to do us more good than a diet of flattery. In either case, we do all to value those who speak the truth to us: Good or bad. - Kemi Buladaco


• Have you realized that when people say "you've changed," it's just because you've stopped living your life their way? - Rio Laforteza

Coffee, anyone?

Crazy Thoughts: Quotable Quotes 4

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I haven't been myself lately due to an unknown reason for the nth time. For that past few days, I've been all over the metro looking for this particular person at this specific location at an explicit time. Running here and there, going in and out of the metropolis, to the point that I almost got lost in Makati City last week out of sheer madness and stupidity! Blah!

Thank you, Police person, for showing me the way to Greenbelt. :)

Anyways, I was browsing my mobile phone an hour ago and, as if inspired by an unknown mystical force, I suddenly realized that each of the following messages were either solutions or advices to every single problem I'm trying to solve: money, love, career, family, etc. I just hope that I won't take all of them literally or something. My head tends to get a little rough sometimes. Haha.

• The muscles of our hands are made to be involuntary so that we have to use it by will. At an early age, we are taught to "close-open" not just to exercise or stretch our hands. Maybe so that we know that in life there are 2 things to be considered: that is to hold on and then to let go. - Mia Mangibin


• Special persons are part of my memories that even time can never erase. And when I'm blessed with a person like you, my memories are worth keeping forever. - Rhea Landicho


• One song can spark a moment. One idea can change the world. One step can start a journey and prayer can change even the impossible one. - Gen Sepulveda


• Some people say that you don't know what you got till it's gone. But its really not like that. You always know what you have; you just never thought that you would lose it. - Mia Mangibin


• It is not being in love that makes you happy. It's who you're with that does. - RC


• All the water in the world could never sink a ship unless it gets inside. Likewise, all the pressures of the world can't tear you apart and can never hurt you, unless you let it in. - Joana leaño


• When you are down to nothing, God is up to something! - Lauren Amon


• When we are given heavy loads by God, it only means that we are worthy of His trust. He always listens when we pray yet He answers them in His own perfect time. - Kaye Lanuza


• Sometimes, we find ourselves feeling incomplete, longing for someone we can't explain and we are caught in the middle going nowhere. Weird, isn't it? But that's the beauty of being human. It is knowing that there is a purpose for each existence. And, whatever that may be, it is the reason why we still wake up breathing each day to discover the missing piece of puzzle that would make our lives complete. - Ruby Anne Gultiano


• Even if you do things the right way, some would still be unsatisfied. Some will not appreciate what you say and what you do, and there would always be people who would let you down too. But, for as long as you speak honestly from the heart, you'll be fine. This is not a perfect world. This is not a perfect life. Life is almost always unfair. But life loves the person who dares to live it. - RC

Coffee, anyone?

WALL-E

[caption id="attachment_573" align="aligncenter" width="202" caption="Wall-E by Disney & Pixar"][/caption]

"Out there is our home - home, AUTO! - and it's in trouble. I can't just sit here and do nothing. That's all I've ever done! That's all anyone has ever done on this blasted ship." - Captain B. McCrea, WALL-E

Last weekend, I had the opportunity to get myself a free movie pass (WALL-E at Trinoma) courtesy of my dear friend and former officemate, Kemi Buladaco. I was on my way home from a Makati seminar when he mentioned that he was bound for Trinoma to watch the said film. So, opportunistic as always, I rushed to Trinoma to meet him ASAP. Haha.

This is for you, Kemi, and all the things you have done for me in the past. Unlike before, this one's not that specific and enticing. Nevertheless, salamat ng sobra.

The film talks about WALL-E or Waste Allocation Load Lifter Earth-Class (Ben Burtt as the sound engineer) and his adventures to be with his love interest, EVE (Elissa Knight), which stands for Extraterrestrial Vegetation Evaluator. Being alone for more than 700 years, WALL-E developed a keen sense of curiosity with the things around him, as evidenced by his weird collection of trash. Also, during the early parts of the movie, WALL-E is seen as a hopeless romantic desperately yearning for EVE's undying approval and attention.

Of course, EVE discovered WALL-E's newly-discovered plant seedling, her one and only directive, then leaves Earth with the seedling bound for Axiom to reveal her findings. Unfortunately, Auto (Macln Talk), Axiom's internal robot pilot, isn't happy with EVE's discovery and plans to dispose of the seedling in order to save the entire Axiom population, as per Directive A113.

[caption id="attachment_589" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="EVE = Femme Fatale"][/caption]

WALL-E then embarks to Axiom in order to seek and help EVE attain her coveted directive. Of course, there were a lot of trials and perils (most of which were funny and crazy) and, most often than not, WALL-E and EVE found themselves in the brink of robotic annihilation. Luckily, a group of lunatic robots, alongside Captain McCrea (Jeff Garlin), were present to aid them against the nasty tricks of Auto. I terribly like MO (Microbe Obliterator)! He's seriously OC material! Haha. :)

In the end, WALL-E and EVE succeeded in their joint directive to save the plant seedling and lead the whole Axiom inhabitants back to their original home, planet Earth.

Generally speaking, the entire film was aimed at contemporary environmental concerns of the 21st century and its profound effects on mankind. WALL-E gave us a general picture of what can happen if we continue to abuse the environment and neglect the effects of our actions. Sadly, the film lacked a concise and specific stand on this matter, possibly due to its target audience: children.

But what it lacked in substance about these pressing concerns was properly compensated by the stunning signature Pixar animation that we all know and love. Every single entry was brilliant and visually stunning. The way WALL-E stacked all the boxed trash to literally build a New York-esque scenery during the early part of the film was splendid and enticing to the young audience. My eyes were literally gleaming during the entire flick!

Overall, the movie was a unique wake-up call to everyone that we all have our own special part in protecting and saving our environment. Every action leads to another, eh?

Coffee, Kemi? :)

My Word Salad

Word salad (noun) - An incomprehensible mixture of incoherent words or phrases; a common symptom of advanced schizophrenia.

I am bookstore happy iPod drinking Gatorade was buying country laugh and serenade asthma text messages Olympics publish tennis service. Taco Bell create hate friend f*cked up Trinoma first base while slow down extreme importance! France searching radio flirt Acetaminophen dreaming clay technical, then send administration jolly skeptical, right?

Coffee, anyone?

Registration for New Nurses - June 2008

Here's the schedule of registration for New Nurses who passed the June, 2008 Nurse Licensure Examination.

• Aug. 26, 2008 - AALA, Maricar C. to AQUINO, Rose Ann B.


• Aug. 27, 2008 - AQUINO, Royce Chrisdale B. to BELDEVER, Aiza Laine C.


• Aug. 28, 2008 - BENAVIDES, Karen Joy B. to CAPITO, Liezl Anne P.


• Aug. 29, 2008 - CAPONPON, Micky C. to CRUZ, Rosemarie N.


• Sept. 1, 2008 - CRUZ, Roxanne D. to DIAZ, Karen Christie R.


• Sept. 2, 2008 - DIAZ, Karel Christyn M. to FERNANDEZ, Karla Iza E.


• Sept. 3, 2008 - FERNANDEZ, Karren Joy C. to GRANDE, Toni Grace E.


• Sept. 4, 2008 - GRATELA, Mary Anne C. to LALU, Lizel G.


• Sept. 5, 2008 - LALUNIO, Michael Vincent B. to MALLARI, Louie G.


• Sept. 8, 2008 - MALLARI, Ma. Cristela B. to MONTALES, Precious Anne D.


• Sept. 9, 2008 - MONTILLA, Claudine M. to PANGANIBAN, Angelleen D.


• Sept. 10, 2008 - PANGANIBAN, Cherry Anne L. to RAMOS, Angely B.


• Sept. 11, 2008 - RAMOS, Anne Rachel B. to SALINDONG, Krizka Joyce M.


• Sept. 12, 2008 - SALISI, Maria Vanessa P. to SUPNET, Oziel Karla S.


• Sept. 15, 2008 - SUPSUP, Mhon Ryan B. to VARGAS, Maria Charessa Cristina D.


• Sept. 16, 2008 - VARGAS, Roel II B. to ZUÑIGA, Susana Jesika S.

NOTE: Please bring your birth certificate in case there is error in your NAME and BIRTHDATE.

Those who will register are required to bring the following:

1. Duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal


2. Current Community Tax Certificate (Cedula)


3. 2 pieces passport size picture (colored with white background and complete name tag)


4. 1 piece 1” x 1” picture (colored with white background and complete name tag)


5. 2 sets of metered documentary stamps


6. 1 short brown envelope with name and profession


7. Pay the Initial Registration Fee of Php600 and Annual Registration Fee of Php450 for 2008-2011

Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.

Coffee, nurses?

GMA 7's Celebrity Duets Season 2

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Celebrity Duets Season 2 is finally here! I've been dying to see the entire show all over again since its Philippine debut last year. Yipee!

The show features a number of contestants from different Philippine industries with a little background on music, singing with a professional Pinoy singer. Of course, as the week progresses, a contestant will be eliminated till the finals night. The winner will be determined by tallied text votes from the TV viewers and the winner will share his or her price money with a chosen charity.

Season 2 contestants will include the following celebrities:

1. MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando


2. Former Bb. Pilipinas World Carlene Aguilar


3. Actor-Comedian-Politician Joey Marquez


4. Former Ms. International Melanie Marquez


5. Renowned Fitness Guru Corry Quirino


6. Ka-Toque Chef JL Cang


7. Fashion Designer JC Buendia


8. Professional Soccer Player Phil Younghusband

Season 2s judges has been revamped and they include:

• Freddie Santos - Concert & TV Director


• Danny Tan - Composer & Arranger


• Tessa Prieto-Valdes - Season 1 Grand Champion

And, as seen from the image above, singer-songwriter, Ogie Alcasid and Asia's Songbird, Regine Velasquez will still host the star-studded singing competition.

My bet? Errr. I'll have to wait and see their initial recital. I don't want to preempt anything. Although Chairman BF has an edge over the other 7 since he has been singing with other cabinet members, or so I've heard.

I can't wait for the premier on Saturday, the 23rd of August, 2008 after Manny Pacquiao's Pinoy Records. This is a MUST SEE show for me! I can't wait to laugh my heart out! Haha. :)

Coffee, celebrities?

Coca Cola's Olympic Bird's Nest Ad

I terribly love this Ad by The Coca Cola Company! Kudos!

Coffee, anyone? :D

Philippine Heart Center IVT Schedule for November 2008

INTRAVENOUS THERAPHY TRAINING PROGRAM
Control No.: 001807
Registration No.: 003
Credit Units: ANSAP / PRC: 18 Units (didactic) 12 Units (practicum)

Schedule - Application Date
November 12 to 14, 2008 - Registration Date to be announced - Click here!

Time : 7:00 - 4:00 pm (3 days)

Venue: Dr. Avenilo P. Aventura Hall

Requirements: Photocopy and original copy of current PRC License Certificate
Registration Fee:Effective November of 2008, the registration fee for the IV Therapy Training Program will increase to Php. 2,000 from the original Php. 1,600.

Note: This is the UPDATED version of the IVT training schedule from the PHC.

Source: www.phc.gov.ph

Coffee, anyone?

Tennis Rankings

[caption id="attachment_528" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Photo courtesy of telegraph.co.uk"][/caption]

And so the rankings came.

After 4 and half years of tennis supremacy, Swiss superstar Roger Federer dropped to the 2nd spot by 770 points behind Spaniard Olympic gold medalist, Rafael Nadal, according to the August 18, 2008 Men's Tennis ATP Rankings.

As shown in ESPN.com, Nadal leads the pack with 6700.0 points, thanks to his French and Wimbledon Titles, not to mention his Olympic gold medal. Federer tags at No. 2 with 5930.0 points while Serbian Novak Djokovic kept his 3rd spot with 5105.0 points. David Ferrer (No. 4), Nikolai Daydenko (No. 5) and Andy Murray (No.6) also retained their positions.

Argentinian David Nalbandian climbed a notch from No. 8 to No. 7 with 1975.0 points while American James Blake dropped 2 places to No. 9 with 1825.0 points. Federer's doubles partner, Stanislas Wawrinka, held his No. 10 status, whereas Olympic silver medalist Fernando Gonzales climbed 4 notches to No. 11 with 1615.0 points.

[caption id="attachment_527" align="aligncenter" width="185" caption="Photo courtesy of timesonline.co.uk"][/caption]

In the women's division, also shown in ESPN.com, French Open champion Ana Ivanovic reclaimed the No. 1 rank as fellow Serbian Jelena Jankovic settled for No. 2 after failing to reach the Olympic finals. Ivanovic has 3612.0 points while Jankovic earned 3515.0 points. Russian Svetlana Kuznetsova (No. 3) and American Serena Williams (No.4) stayed in their spots with 3455.0 and 3341.0 points respectively.

Olympic gold medalist Elena Dementieva climed 2 places to No. 5 (3194.0) while Australian Open champ Maria Sharapova dropped to No. 6 (3131.0), followed by Olympic silver medalist Dinara Safina at No. 7 (3077.0). Chinese sensation Na Li also moved 6 places to No. 36 with 795.0 points.

Of course, the rankings are bound to make some movement after the upcoming 2008 US Open, which commences in Flushing, New York City from the 25th of August to the 7th of September, 2008. God bless to everyone! :)

Coffee, anyone?

On Michael Phelps

[caption id="attachment_512" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="Image courtesy of Reuters Staff/reuters.com"][/caption]

8 Gold Medals=Olympic Greatness

Last Sunday (Aug. 17), the world saw how 23-year-old American swimmer Michael "The Baltimore Bullet" Phelps earned his 8th gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, giving him an exclusive pass to the pantheon of Olympic achievements along side Soviet gymnasts Alexander Dityatins and Larrissa Latynina.

According to wikipedia.com, Phelps got an Olympic gold medal in the following swimming events in Beijing alone:

1. 400m Individual Medley - World Record


2. 4 x 100m Freestyle Relay - World Record


3. 200m Freestyle - World Record


4. 200m Butterfly - World Record


5. 4 x 200m Freestyle Relay - World Record


6. 200m Individual Medley - World Record


7. 100m Butterfly - Olympic Record


8. 4 x 100m Medley Relay - World Record

(In a British accent) Absolutely astonishing, if I say so myself!

On a heavier note, he wants his Olympic accomplishment to be an igniting force that would take swimming to another level outside the Olympic arena. "I don't want this sport to be an every-four-year sport," he said Sunday after gaining his 8th gold medal. "I think, yeah, we get the most attention every four years. But in between those four years there's really not as much exposure for us as I would like. I just want more people to get involved in the sport. I really think it's going to happen. I think over the next four years it's going to happen more and more."

Unattainable, eh? Probably not.

36 years after Mark Spitz made his mark in the Munich Olympics with 7 gold medals, a young man from Baltimore who likes to eat pizza and hates waking up early broke the so-called "Spitzean Feat."

"It goes to show you that not only is this guy the greatest swimmer of all time and the greatest Olympian of all time, he's maybe the greatest athlete of all time," Spitz told The Associated Press after Phelps matched his 7 Olympic gold medal triumph. "He's the greatest racer who ever walked the planet."

"I hate to lose," Michael said. "When I lose a race like that, it motivates me even more to try to swim faster." He was only 19 when he first got his Olympic shot at Athens, where he got a Bronze Medal at the 200m Freestyle. It was his only loss.

Seriously, my Thesaurus ran out of superlatives that would best describe his superb accomplishment.

What's next for Michael Phelps? According to an interview, he wants to continue his Olympic winning streak to the 2012 London Olympic Games. But for now, he just wants to, at least, lie on his bed for about 5 minutes or so, then play golf. A well-deserved break, I suppose, fit for a king.

Coffee, Michael? :D

Nadal wins Olympic Gold for Spain

[caption id="attachment_507" align="aligncenter" width="494" caption="Photo courtesy of Clive Brunskill/Getty Images"][/caption]

He officially rules the world now.

Rafael "El Toro" Nadal of Spain just added an Olympic Gold Medal in his recent achievements after defeating Fernando Gonzales of Chile in the Olympic Men's Singles Tennis Finals, 6-3, 7-6 (7-2), 6-3.

The 22-year old Spaniard was ruthless in all aspects as he capitalized on Gonzales' crumbling court performance. Fernando tried to cling on to a 2-5 slate during the 3rd set but Nadal's unbreakable execution converted his fourth match point into a Gold Medal.

Nadal will claim the top of the Tennis Rankings tomorrow, Monday, ending Roger Federer's 4 and a-half year supremacy. Additionally, this is the first ever Olympic gold medal in tennis for Spain.

Serbian Novak Djokovic claimed the Bronze Medal yesterday after conquering American James Blake, 6-3, 7-6(4) in the Bronze Medal Match.

[caption id="attachment_506" align="aligncenter" width="244" caption="Photo courtesy of reuters.com"][/caption]

"I just want to enjoy this moment because I'm having an unbelievable year," Nadal said. "It's more than my best dreams so I want to enjoy the moment. I know how difficult it is to win these things, especially here. Winning for me is unbelievable."

Coffee, Rafa? :)

Federer wins 1st Olympic Gold with Wawrinka

[caption id="attachment_495" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="AP Photo/Elise Amendola / August 16, 2008"][/caption]

Swiss tennis superstar Roger Federer, alongside 23 year-old Stanislas Wawrinka (No. 10), won the Olympic Gold Medal for the Men's Tennis Doubles Saturday night.

The Swiss pair dispatched Sweden's duo, Thomas Johansson and Simon Aspelin, 6-3 6-4 6-7 (4-7) 6-3 at the Beijing Olympic Green Tennis Court.

"It's a magical moment. Something incredible in my career, and I enjoy that," uttered the 5-time Wimbledon champion. "I have tried for several times (to get a medal), and I came really close to the medal in Sydney where I finished fourth."

"Since then I can't stop thinking that If I am the best player in the world, I should do the same in the Olympics, and then finally I made it, it is really special also because it is for Switzerland, you know, our country cannot get so many medals at one Olympics, maybe one or two, but this time I got a gold medal, it is for my country, I really feel different, it is for my country, and it is different from the Grand Slam where I did it for just myself."


[caption id="attachment_494" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Photo courtesy of zisch.ch"][/caption]

Both Swiss athletes left their singles Olympic bid earlier on but muddled through to win their doubles attempt.

He added "It's incredible that we managed to stay on track to win in doubles."

On the other hand, the American Bryan brothers, Bob and Mike, took Bronze against the French pair Arnaud Clement and Michael Llodra 3-6 6-3 6-4.

Bob and Mike won all Grand Slam Doubles Titles but, identical to Federer, failed all previous attempts at the Olympics.

Federer's quick and nifty volley during the early part of the fourth set broke Aspelin, the former serving out of the match.

According to Bill Dwyre of the Chicago Tribune:

He is the ultimate Swiss timepiece now. Gold, no less.

Coffee, anyone? :D

Pinoy Idol Finals Night

[caption id="attachment_487" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Pinoy Idol"][/caption]

Just saw the final performances of the top 3 Pinoy Idol contestants. Frankly speaking, I was quite taken aback on how fast things were moving during the entire show. Nevertheless, all 3 performers were good in their own musical genre and one can easily see how each contestant evolved into a shining performer.

Here are the songs that the Top 3 Pinoy Idol hopefuls sang earlier.

[caption id="attachment_488" align="aligncenter" width="240" caption="Photo courtesy of Pep.ph"][/caption]

Jayann Bautista

1. Judge's Choice - I'll Never Love This Way Again (Wyngard Tracy)


2. Mentor's Choice - You'll Never Walk Alone (Regine Velasquez)


3. Personal Choice - Proud Mary

[caption id="attachment_489" align="aligncenter" width="240" caption="Photo courtesy of Pep.ph"][/caption]

Ram Chavez

1. Judge's Choice -Bridge Over Troubled Water (Ogie Alcasid)


2. Mentor's Choice - I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing (Jaya)


3. Personal Choice - Handog

[caption id="attachment_490" align="aligncenter" width="240" caption="Photo courtesy of Pep.ph"][/caption]

Gretchen Espina

1. Judge's Choice - For Your Eyes Only (Jolina Magdangal)


2. Mentor's Choice - Stand Up For Love (Jaya)


3. Personal Choice - Ngayon

Whoever becomes the first ever Pinoy Idol will win 5.7 Million Pesos worth of prizes and a ticket to musical stardom, or so to speak. My bet, Robby Navarro, got booted out of the competition earlier on, so I'm not that enthusiastic about the results to be announced tomorrow night.

Good luck and God bless na lang sa mananalo. :)

Coffee, anyone?

Update: Gretchen Espina of Biliran City won the aforementioned competition, thereby becoming the first ever Pinoy Idol. She also bagged the Pinoy Idol song "To You" composed by singer, songwriter and Pinoy Idol judge, Ogie Alcasid and arranged by Pinoy Idol musical director, Danny Tan. :)

Viva La Vida - Coldplay

[caption id="attachment_464" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="And that was when I ruled the world"][/caption]

I bought Coldplay's latest album, "Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends", two weeks ago and, since that fateful day, I cannot get all ten songs out of my head! It keeps on reverberating over and over and over again! Haha. :)

I've been a Coldplay fan since the very beginning. When I first heard their music back in 2000, I sort of entered a trance-like state that seriously changed my taste in music. A couple of my favorites include "Yellow", "Clocks", "The Scientist", and "Fix You."

Released on the 12th day of June 2008 under Parlophone, "Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends" contains ten songs running for about 45 minutes and 53 seconds. It includes "Violet Hill" and "Viva La Vida", which is the band's first number one song in the US and the UK.

According to rollingstone.com

Coldplay's desire to unite fans around the world with an entertainment they can all relate to is the band's strength, and a worthy goal. But on Viva la Vida, a record that wants to make strong statements, it's also a weakness. Sometimes, to say what needs to be said, you need to risk pissing people off.

Personally, I like "Lovers in Japan/ Reign of Love". It's simple and elegant, with a certain sprinkle of darkness that can captivate anyone. Of course, "Viva La Vida" and its buoyant tune makes my heart skip a certain beat, or so to speak.

Overall, from my personal standpoint, this so-called "experimental" album is fantastic and marvelous. It shows the bands ingenuity and distinct technique in mixing alternative rock music with contemporary political issues that evoke certain salient messages all over the globe.

Coffee, anyone?

My Psych Test Results

I was socializing with some senior Psychology students from the Pasig Catholic College the other day when one of them mentioned something about psychological testing done on psychiatric patients. Being the gossip guy that I am, I asked a couple of nonchalant questions about the said matter. She explained that these exams (there are loads of them!) are done "to uncover the relationship between a client's current mental state with his or her past life experiences: it ranges from a patient's IQ, personal and family history to his or her sexual and educational life." Very intriguing, if I say so myself.

Obviously, I questioned its precision and accuracy and whether it applies even to everyone else, like me. She said that they use a certain "manual" to determine the results and that it is about 95% to 100% accurate. She then challenged me to draw 3 things on a piece of paper: a tree, a person and a house. Taking my tri-colored pen and a prescription pad into action, I let my hand and imagination fly into nirvana.

Hence, my personal masterpiece. *clap*clap* :)

Draw a tree, a person and a house. Haha. :)

Afterwards, she explained some key features in my drawings and they go something like this:

House

• Tiny but well drawn- Has feelings of inadequacy.


• Floating house- Schizophrenia due to character disorder.


• Overemphasis on the roof- Suspicious.


• Very small doors- Has feelings of social inadequacy and/or indecision.


• Bars on the windows- "Keep away."

Tree

• Leaning to the left- Shadows impulsiveness.


• Deep Shading- Feelings of inadequacy.


• Scars on the bark- Shows castration anxiety.


• Branches more to the right- Has intellectual control.


• The drawing is placed on the right side of the paper- It means that the client has possible introversion and/or inhibited tendencies, has uncertainty apprehension, negativism or rebellious tendencies.


• Usually small drawings- Discontent with feelings of inferiority; Timid, shy, excessive defensiveness, and low self-esteem.


• Sketchy strokes- Insecurity, possible character disturbances.

Person

• Unusually small head- Feelings of inadequacy; Possible denial.


• Unusually small eyes- Introversion tendencies; May suggest regression and/or extremely childish.


• Sharply pointed nose- Possible acting-out tendencies.


• Unequal shoulders- Personality imbalance.


• Feet pointing opposite directions- Indicates ambivalence; Possible lack of control.

My reaction? Flabbergasted! Her explanations were 110% precise and accurate to the very last drop, especially the intellectual control part! I was seriously laughing the whole time, to the point that a patient of mine asked if I'm actually one of them! BWAHAHAHA. :D

Why did I took the said exam? Self-awareness. I rationalized that, at some point, an individual should be aware of the reasons behind their unique behavior, whether conscious or unconscious. Also, the results can justify one's personality and acknowledging these results and explanations can lead to a more wholesome self-concept. Ergo, a healthier mental state.

If a prospective lover is reading this distinctive entry, you have been warned beforehand. :)

Coffee, anyone?

Federer's Olympic Retribution

[caption id="attachment_424" align="aligncenter" width="294" caption="(AP Photo/Charles Krupa)"][/caption]

It ain't over till it's over, eh?

After his painful loss in the 2nd round of the 2004 Athens Olympics to Tomas Berdych of the Czech Republic, Swiss Tennis star Roger Federer is back to reclaim a possible Olympic gold medal.

Federer defeated Berdych 6-3, 7-6 (4) last Wednesday to reach the quarterfinals of the Men's Singles. He was shouting "Yes!" and kept on punching the air after a service winner at match point.

The Swiss Superstar is seeking his first ever Olympic medal after being excluded in the Sydney and Athens Olympic Games. Furthermore, this could possibly end his dry spell after failing to claim any major title this year. He is currently 2 titles away from Pete Sampras' 14 Grand Slam titles.

Roger will now face James Blake, ranked No. 8, for the quarterfinals and possibly meet Rafael Nadal in the battle for the gold medal in the Sunday finals.

Nadal also advanced to the quarterfinals after beating Russian Igor Andreev, 6-4, 6-2. He is now likely to meet (No. 3) Novak Djokovic in the semifinals after Djokovic dispatched Mikhail Youzhny of Russia 7-6 (3), 6-3.

Nevertheless, Rafael Nadal will become the world's number 1 Tennis player when the rankings come out next week.

"I am playing close to my best level," Nadal said. "My goal is try to continuing playing like this."

Note: I am a Roger Federer Fan. Haha. :D

Coffee, Roger?

Update: Unfortunately, James Blake Defeated Roger Federer, 6-4, 7-6 (7-2). :(

Crazy Thoughts: Quotable Quotes Part 3

[caption id="attachment_196" align="aligncenter" width="186" caption="Errr."][/caption]

It is so nice to finally take some time off from my ultra-stressful and mega-tiring work and just sit back, relax, and write some random stuff on my beloved blog. I've been seriously overwhelmed with tremendous workload for the past few days that I honestly forgot that I own a blog. Hence, my blog has sunk into the abyss. Ughh.

Anyways, I have loads of stuff to write for the next few days since I'm taking some time off from work. So, without further adieu, let's get this show on the road! Haha. :)

• Its difficult to turn your back to someone whom you really want to be with. To let someone feel they're neglected, when in fact they're important. To show someone that you don't mind, when in fact you care a lot. To avoid someone when, when in fact you want to take a stolen glance. To treat someone as an ordinary being, when in fact they are special. To let someone realize that they're presence is naturally welcome, when in fact it creates extraordinary excitement. To say things contrary to what you feel and laugh, when in fact you want to cry your heart out. - RC


• Bonding doesn't happen only when we're together. It also happens when we're apart and we realize that despite the absence, friendship still works. - Kaye Lanuza


• The best part of being in love is when you just love a person and be happy about it. Even that person can never be yours, even if you know that it wouldn't last forever. That's the true essence of love. It's not about winning someone; it's not about being happy because you know you've loved someone. It's about being guiltless because you know you didn't take away someone from anybody. You just love and love unselfishly. - Rhea Landicho


• In love, you have to expect absence at some point. But that doesn't mean it's the end; all you have to do is wait for time. Give the person space because true love is proved when a person has seen the best people in the world but still turns back to where you are, reaches for your hand and chooses you above the world's best. - Mia Mangibin


• Every person you "bump into" has a purpose. So, you ask yourself "How did this person touch my life?" With you? I never really asked. I just thanked. - Lauren Amon


• I wish someone will assure me of a love life that's like what a baby shampoo guarantees: No more tears. - Mia Mangibin


• One grows distant from another not because of hatred, not because of indifference, but because of fear. There's the fear that the hurt gets greater as one gets closer; a recognition of the tendency to fall deeply and consequently drown in a quicksand of stupid irrationalities. Sometimes, what drives one away is not the absence of emotion, but the overwhelming presence of it. - Julie Inocencio


• The saddest part of letting go is the moment you stepped backward, turned, and walked away, waiting for a shout calling your name, calling you back, that would never come. Then you're left with tears involuntarily falling from your eyes and the realization that that person is really never gonna run after you. - RC


• No matter how serious life gets, you will consequently need the company of people whom you can completely be stupid with. - Jeck Balog


• I am trying to correct my life. Trying to fit everything right. Trying not to be wrong again. But I always remember that being wrong sometimes makes me a better person. - Mia Mangibin

Coffee, anyone?

Happy Birthday, Harry Potter & J. K. Rowling!

[caption id="attachment_383" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="The Boy Who Lived"][/caption]

Happy birthday to my favorite boy wizard, Harry James E. Potter. :)

[caption id="attachment_385" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="J. K. Rowling"][/caption]

Happy birthday to J. K. Rowling, too. :)

Coffee, anyone?

Personality Test - I am an Idealist

I was feeling a bit slothful and apprehensive the whole day due to several unknown factors that I actually forgot to finish my essay about a certain unresolved dilemma. Haaaay. I can't seem to focus on that particular topic lately due to my personal biases and predispositions. Nevertheless, I have to finish that essay as soon as possible in order for me to feel some sense of accomplishment. Work, Paulo. Work.

So, in order to appear productive and fruitful, I came across this personality test from a certain blog (I forgot the blog's name, sorry) and answered it nonchalantly. Of course, I did my very best to answer every question with objectivity and veracity. Luckily, the results were a perfect match. Haha. :)

Yes, I am very, very idealistic. I always see to it that everything should be done in a specific manner at a specific time with the right people so that all objectives will be met. I am very competitive with the people around me and I see to it that I do my best in everything that I do. I believe that rules and policies are made for everyone's benefit: no one is above the law, not even the president.

Personally, I believe that idealism feeds an individual's hope for something better and/or greater in the future. It makes you think that despite of all the bad things that has happened, esp. lately, there will come a time when all of these will no longer matter because everyone is, to some extent, happy. That's why I always have tears in my eyes when I see Filipino youth demonstrating their stand on the streets bearing posters and shouting chants about a certain national issue.

Jose Rizal once said "Ang kabataan ang Pag-asa ng bayan." It may sound as old as "Manang Biday" but it still is an undeniable reality.

What's your personality? :)

Coffee, anyone?

Untitled Randomness

Friday, July 25, 2008 at exactly 4:10 PM
28th floor, IBM Tower
Eastwood City Libis, Quezon City

During a certain final interview:

Mr. Kim: (In a Korean accent) What is your ambition in life?

Me: To be happy. *wink*wink*

I don't know why those three words came out of my foolish mouth last Friday afternoon. I was just thinking of something else to answer when, unconsciously, my overworked brain told my dumb larynx to utter those unusual words. I seriously saw the flabbergasted faces of Mr. Kim and Ms. Dolly and it appeared as if they fell off their chairs due to my simple yet quasi-insane answer. Haha. :)

Most of the time, when asked with the same question, I would easily say that I want to be a professor or clinical instructor for the UST College of Nursing while taking my Doctorate Degree in Developmental Studied or a Doctorate Degree in Nursing at the UP Open University. After which, I'll try to become the first male dean of the UST-CON. Wow. Talk about hard work, right attitude and motivation. Haha. :)

Honestly, as we speak, I just want to be seriously happy. I've been through a lot of messy and scary stuff this year and I can't seem to comprehend any of them: my failed application for the AFP Nurse Corps., freeze hiring at the UST Hospital, family issues, financial instability and the ever bloody love life problems. I did ask the Lord God about His "GREAT PLAN" about my personal (esp. love) and professional life and, unfortunately, I got the usual painstaking and hard-hitting answer: Silence. *sigh* :(

I mean, seriously, He could've just asked one of his noble and trusty angels to come to my aid here on Earth and deliver His "GREAT PLAN" ever for my jaded/broken/twisted life. I could have chosen the right options at the right time with the right person in the right manner without feeling any sense of doubt, shame, remorse, anger and tremendous guilt. *sigh* :(

But, come to think of it, maybe He just wants me to figure everything out on my own so that I could learn something new about my unique personality and the people around me. Errr. I honestly don't know.

Patience is a virtue. All things come to those who wait. Luckily, I have tons of time to spare.

Blah! Too much Internet space has been used for this rubbish entry! Haha. :)

Coffee, anyone?

Asian Hospital Staff Nurse Requirements

[caption id="attachment_346" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Asian Hospital and Medical Center"][/caption]

Submit a complete set of the following requirements in its corresponding order. All in a short bond paper and compiled in a small binder clip.

• Updated comprehensive resume


• Photocopy of College diploma


• Photocopy of Transcript of records and RLE


• Photocopy of updated PRC License


• Photocopy of board rating


• Photocopy of PRC certificate


• Photocopy of updated IV therapy license (2 copies)


• Photocopy of IV therapy certificate (2 copies)


• Photocopy of PNA (Philippine Nurses Association) ID


• Photocopy of BLS (Basic Life Support) certificate


• Photocopy of trainings and seminars attended


• Photocopy of 3 recommendation letters from previous employer or college dean, if fresh graduate


• Photocopy of employment certificate or clearance from previous employer

Note: Only applicants with complete requirements will be entertained. Please attach the requirements checklist on top of your application form. Questions and queries are greatly appreciated. Please call 771-9000 local 8429 or 8433 and look for Mhadz

Coffee, anyone?

Update

As you all may have noticed, it took my about 58 days to personally update my beloved blog. A lot of things have seriously happened over the last few weeks to the point that I almost wanted the ground to shake and eat me whole. Haaaay.

First of all, I lost my Internet connection for 55 days due to cable line problems. Yes, you read that correctly: it took them 55 freaking days, 45 technical support calls, 8 supervisor calls and 6 business center visits to actually fix the problem. Sheesh! As we speak, I still can't believe that it took them that long to take my complaint seriously and replace our cable lines. Thankfully, every thing's back to normal and I'm back to blogging my jaded life. Haha. :)

Second, I'm currently looking for a new career outside of my chosen profession. I've been to a number of call centers all over the metro but, unfortunately, I can't seem to decide which one would suffice my criteria and qualifications. I mean, I have enough experience as a Technical Support Representative from my previous employer and that experience has definitely taught me a lot of stuff. So, it's back to the salt mines on Monday. Haha. :)

Third, I can't seem to accept the fact that I wasn't given another chance to retake the reading assessment last Wednesday. I perfected the dictation part (which is the most essential part of my dream job) and I passed all of my training activities. So, why can't I retake the reading part? Did I suck THAT bad? Or its the thing they call KARMA? Nevertheless, things happen for a specific reason. And, whatever that reason is, I am willing to accept it whole-heartedly.

Lastly, I'm currently moving on with my emotional wellness. I plan to go back on the dating scene once I get myself a stable job and enjoy life as slowly as possible. *wink*wink*

It's so nice to be able to write again. I can't seem to get my hands off my PC. Random things are starting to rush inside my head and they seriously need some release. Haha. :)

Coffee, anyone?

Thomasian Pride

[caption id="attachment_145" align="aligncenter" width="100" caption="Go USTe! Go USTe! Go USTe! Go! Go! Go! Go!"][/caption]

When I heard the news that 29 Thomasians from Batch 2008 made it to the top 10 of the recently released June 1 & 2, 2008 Nurse Licensure Examinations, I was seriously teary-eyed! Garnering a 98% passing rate was also overwhelming, considering the number of examinees from UST. It was total redemption for the college since the June 2006 NLE fiasco. It was a well-deserved achievement for the University, the College and, most especially, our mentors.

Iba talaga kapag galing ka ng USTe!

And now, without further adieu, here is the official list of Thomasian Board Topnotchers, thanks to Ma'am Famorca. Haha.

Top 1
1• Aira Therese Salamanca Javier, University of Santo Tomas -- 86.00%

Top 3
2• Joanna Jacob Quirante, University of Santo Tomas -- 85.60%

Top 4
3• Ana Rica Chan Gutierrez, University of Santo Tomas -- 85.40%
4• Maria Alyssa Yee Policarpio, University of Santo Tomas -- 85.40%
5• Aileen Grace Yu Sotyco, University of Santo Tomas -- 85.40%

Top 5
6• Michelle Joyce Cheung Encarnacion, University of Santo Tomas -- 85.20%
7• Jason Albia Go, University of Santo Tomas -- 85.20%

Top 6
8• Diana Justo Cupino, University of Santo Tomas -- 85.00%
9• Marion Delos Santos Llauder, University of Santo Tomas -- 85.00%
10• Kevin Bryan Uy Lo, University of Santo Tomas -- 85.00%
11• Patrick Paras Mejia, University of Santo Tomas -- 85.00%

Top 8
12• Sozein Soliel Bacena Bustamante, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.60%
13• Lourdes Claire Rodriguez David, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.60%
14• Ana Joy Almie Cruz Dizon, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.60%
15• Imee Loren Chan Lim, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.60%
16• Rochelle-Anne Ordinanza Primavera, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.60%
17• Raichel Faye Mallari Ringor, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.60%
18• Czarina Ann Arellano Sevilla, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.60%

Top 9
19• Janna Bianca Albano Cajigal, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.40%
20• Kathryn Kaye Aquino Carpio, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.40%
21• Katrina Rae Limjoco Daza, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.40%
22• John Philip Tecson Lim, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.40%
23• Myron Marco Miranda Mariano, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.40%
24• Girlie Lazaro Repuyan, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.40%

Top 10
25• Romina Paula Parreño Barrameda, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.20%
26• Ma. Bernadette Valdivia Lopez-Dee, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.20%
27• Razeille Kristine Asistio Razon, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.20%
28• Frederick Abad Sampang, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.20%
29• Janelle Grace Teo Sia, University of Santo Tomas -- 84.20%

Kudos to everyone and welcome to the profession!

Coffee, Thomasian nurses? :)

June 1 & 2, 2008 NLE Results

Just click the bear for the complete list.

Congratulations to everyone!:)

Coffee, anyone?

Mom Fights Church Ban on Autistic Son

I was, yet again, browsing some health news online (thank God for Google News) when I saw this striking and alarming article. Flabbergasted, I read the whole story that goes...

Mom Fights Church Ban on Autistic Son
Woman Fights Church That Said Autistic Son a Threat, Banned Him From Services
By SCOTT MICHELS
Photo by Dave Kolpack/AP Photo
June 2, 2008

A Minnesota woman pleaded not guilty today to violating a restraining order that barred her autistic son from attending mass at a local Catholic church and vowed to fight for the rights of disabled people to attend church.

In an unusual conflict between a pastor and a member of his flock, the Church of St. Joseph in Bertha, Minn., filed a restraining order last month to stop congregation member Carol Race and her 13-year-old son Adam from attending church services.

In court papers, the church pastor, Daniel Walz, says Adam, who is autistic, is disruptive and dangerous to other parishioners. He claims the 6-foot, 225-pound boy has hit another child, spat at members of the church and urinated in the church.

Adam's mother Carol Race denies that her son is dangerous and says it's important for him to be able to attend Sunday mass.

"I know the church firmly teaches that all people are welcome to come to mass," she said. "My son has a right to be there. And the pastor really does not have the authority to tell an individual that they can't come to mass."

Carol Race was cited last month for coming to church with Adam, in violation of the restraining order. She said she pleaded not guilty this afternoon and is scheduled to attend a mediation session with church leaders later this week.

Neither Walz nor Diocese of St. Cloud spokeswoman Jane Marrin could be immediately reached for comment on Monday.

Race said that church officials offered to have Adam watch mass from a video feed in the basement. She rejected that offer. "From a spiritual standpoint, there's nothing that says watching mass on TV is the same as being present," she said.

She said Adam has had what she calls "meltdowns" while at church. He lies on the floor and flails his arms and legs. Race and her husband have at times needed to sit on Adam or bind his arms and legs with a strip of fleece to get him to calm down, she said.

She said that Adam's behavior has improved in the last few months, but also admitted that Adam once ran into the parking lot after church services, turned on a car and revved the engine.

"Adam's continued presence on parish grounds not only endangers the parishioners, it is disruptive to the devout celebration of the Eucharist," Walz wrote. "I have repeatedly asked John and Carol to keep Adam from church; they have refused to do so."

Carol Race and several friends who have autistic children are asking churches across the country to reserve a pew for families with autistic children or who otherwise may not have been welcome.

"I think there are thousands of families across the country who are not going to church because they have not been welcome in the past," she said. "I think that's why this story is so important to so many families out there."

First reaction: SERIOUSLY?! The Catholic church?!

Second reaction: Is this seriously true? Obviously, it is true and that it is currently happening in the US. After reading the whole thing, I suddenly found myself surrounded with sweet nostalgia: thinking back on my basic theological classes in high school and college, the church accepts anyone who desires to enter it REGARDLESS of age, sex, race, condition, et al. Am I right or am I wrong?

Anyways, Autism is a developmental disorder in the brain that impairs a child's social relations and communication. It causes limited and monotonous behavior before a child turns 3 years old. Classic signs and symptoms include ritualistic and compulsive behavior, limited focus, hand-flapping, head rolling, and resistance to any form of change. Management includes improving the family's quality of life and reducing the stress on the family. Unfortunately, there is no cure. Some recover after years of intensive therapy while others don't.

It actually saddens me how the Catholic church is, to some extent, violating some of its own teaching. Yes, I am a devout Catholic since birth and my faith is, undoubtedly, on solid ground but this issue seriously struck me. What is happening to this planet? Is it me or its just me? :(

Coffee, anyone?

Crazy Thoughts: Piece/s of Me

I have been utterly sick for the past 4 days and my Internet connection lost its efficiency for the last 5 days, as evidenced by my super long absence. Haaay. Talk about bad timing or something. Sheesh.

Anyways, I thought that writing something serious or jaw-dropping would be a total headache so I tried to look for something random and/or funny. I was, as always, reading some arbitrary stuff on-line (multiply, I think) when I saw this nifty and perky survey thing. So, I readily answered everything and, afterwards, I was laughing my brains out from my weird answers. Haha. Have fun reading them! :)

1. Is there anyone on your friends list you would ever consider having sex with?
Yes. Mga 3 or 4 sila. *wink*wink*

2. Sex in the morning, afternoon or night?
Night for a more intimate affair.

3. What side of the bed do you sleep on ?
Right side, usually fetal position.

4. Pork, beef, or chicken?
Chicken for tons of protein!

5. Have you ever had to pull over on the side of the road to puke?
Nope. I don't own a car. Haha.

6. Have you ever taken your clothes off for money?
Nope but I would.

7. Shower or Bath?
Bath na lang.

8. Do you pee in the shower?
Yes, most of the time.

9. Do you want someone aggressive or passive in bed?
Aggressive. Haha. Uber passive ako. Nyahaha.

10. Do you love someone in your friends list?
Yes, and alam niya yun. :)

11. Do you know all the people in your friends list?
Nope but I know the majority of them.

12. Love or Money?
Both! Haha. :)

13. Credit cards or cash?
Credit cards for convenience.

14. Have you ever had anyone in your family you wish wasn't?
Never.

15. Would you rather go camping or to a 5 star hotel?
Camping! Yipee!

16. What is the weirdest place you have had sex?
Inside a car in the middle of nowhere. *wink*wink*

17. Would you shave your entire body (including your head) for money?
Yes, because, eventually, they'll grow back.

18. Have you ever been to a strip club?
Nope. Seriously.

19. Ever been to a bar?
Of course. :)

20. Ever been kicked out of a bar or a club?
Nope.

21. Ever been so drunk you had to be carried out of somewhere?
Yes, back in college.

22. Kissed someone of the same sex?
Yes. *wink*wink* :D

23. Ever had sex in the bathroom?
I'd love to do this one. Seriously.

24. Have you ever been in an "adult" store?
Yes.

25. Have u ever bought anything from an adult store?
Ultra-thin condoms and Lube.

27. Ever been caught having sex?
Nope.

28. Does anyone have naughty pics of YOU?
None pa naman, I think.

39. Have you ever had sex with someone and called them the wrong name?
No.

30. Who do you think has the guts to repost this?
I can't think of anyone but I certainly think that a lot of people will react on this one. Haha. :)

Coffee, anyone? :D

Idol Contestant Luke Menard Diagnosed With Cancer

I was reading some health news on Google when I suddenly stumbled upon this article about Luke Menard. Of course, we all remember him from his short skit on American Idol Season 7 and making it to the top 24 Idol hopefuls. It goes...

Idol Contestant Luke Menard Diagnosed With Cancer
Hollywood (ChattahBox) - Former American Idol contestant Luke Menard has been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of cancer.

Luke Menard managed to gain many fans making it to the top 16 in American Idol season 7, which was eventually won by David Cook.

Menard saw his doctor after complaining of a persistent cough that would not go away. Tests done by his doctor revealed the mass behind his heart.

Menard’s acapella group, Chapter 6, put out a statement that he has a very curable cancer and is in good spirits.

The group made it clear to his fans that “the prognosis is good.”

Hodgkin's lymphoma, also known as Hodgkin's Disease, is a form of malignancy occurring from a patient's lymph nodes spreading in an orderly manner. It is often characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells on lymph node biopsy and histo-path examination. Common signs and symptoms include lymph node enlargement on the neck and shoulders, non-specific back pain, hepatosplenomegaly (enlargement of the liver and spleen), weight loss, and fever. Treatment includes radiation therapy and/or combination chemotherapy.

I certainly hope that he'll be able to conquer and overcome this obstacle just like the AI7 auditions. :)

Coffee, anyone?

New Nursing Curriculum

I have been hearing a lot of fuzz about this new nursing curriculum imposed upon by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) effective this coming academic year. Luckily, I stumbled upon this fruitful and enlightening article from Inquirer.net that states and I quote:

Schools buck new nursing curriculum

By Kristine L. Alave
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 05:54:00 05/23/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- The largest consortium of private schools on Thursday demanded that the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) immediately stop implementation of the new nursing curriculum, saying its imposition was done without consultation and the curriculum posed too much of a burden on students.

The Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (Cocopea) described CHEd’s Memorandum Order No. 5 released last week which directed nursing schools nationwide to add new subjects and increase hospital hours for students starting this school year, as a “disastrous” policy that would do more harm than good.

The order had added 28 units and three summer classes to the nursing curriculum’s 169 units. Practicum hours would also increase to 2,703 hours from the current requirement of 2,142 hours, Cocopea said.

CHEd said the new policies were aimed at further honing students’ technical knowledge and skills, making them more competent and competitive to employers.

Unfair to students

But Cocopea said the imposition of additional subjects was unfair to schools and students.

It also accused CHEd of failing to consult schools and colleges about the new policies. “Due process was clearly not observed,” the organization said.

Fr. Rod Salazar, Jr. SVD, Cocopea chair and president of the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP), urged the suspension of the order until after all stakeholders had discussed ways of improving nursing education.

“We are appealing to CHEd to suspend the implementation until we have considered in depth and at length how we can truly improve the quantity and quality of the nurses we educate,” Salazar said.

The additional units would also increase the financial burden of students and parents and cause a logistical problem to hospitals and colleges, the group said. It pointed out that there might not be enough hospitals to satisfy students’ need for hands-on learning.

“We have barely two months to go before the academic year will start and we, as heads of our respective institutions and educational associations, feel that the implications of the proposed changes in curriculum are too heavy for our educational system to implement this soon,” Salazar said.

Cocopea officials said implementation of the curriculum may prompt many students to discontinue pursuing nursing careers.

Fr. Joel Tabora SJ, CEAP regional director and president of the Ateneo de Naga University, said, “It is a disastrous policy. It will make us choppy and will force students to drop out.”

Cocopea is composed of 2,500 schools, colleges and universities.

Honestly, this so-called "new" curriculum is, to some extent, unfair and painful to every one concerned. I'll try to dissect the matter at hand for a clearer and better picture. But, do take note that this is from my standpoint only and I am not an expert on the technical aspects of the nursing academe and profession. Here goes nothing... :)

1. To the parents - 5 years of nursing education=5 years of pain-staking tuition fee that increases every year. Trust me on this one. During my 1st year in college, my tuition fee was around Php22,000. 6 years later, it increased dramatically to about Php36,000. Astounding, right?


2. To the students - More duty hours and more work load. Come on! All work and no play makes a wise man super dull. Study hard. Party harder. Pray the hardest. Haha. :)


3. To the Nursing institution - Increased need for clinical instructors, classrooms, and specialty facilities to train their staff and students. With the current exodus of Pinoy nurses to greener pastures abroad, there will be a significant decrease in the number of highly qualified professors to educate the next generation of nurses. Not to mention the increased expenses to properly operate the institution itself. Gosh!


4. To the health care industry - Augmented duty hours does not necessarily mean better nurses in the future. I have often observed in the past that staff nurses educated from other nursing schools with a greater number duty hours are, at times, inconsiderate and often disregard the fundamental stuff, which are essential to the nursing profession. Do the math, okay?


5. To the government - Continuous escalation of nurses per year yet there are less hospitals for employment. This is the bloody part. There are thousands of nursing graduates every year and yet there are no vacancies for practice. Seriously, I have tried to apply to various institutions here in the metro. Unfortunately, there are no vacant positions available. Unemployment s*cks big time! Argh!

Well, with all of that crappy stuff said, I seriously think that the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) should definitely reconsider its so-called "new and efficient" curriculum. I mean rebuffing the current nursing curriculum during this trying times does not exactly produce immediate and lasting results necessary to redeem our aching profession. Why can't they try to close down sub-standard nursing schools all over the country for a change?! That is easier than just imposing a new program and it will absolutely procure clearer and superior results at the soonest possible time.

Coffee, anyone? :D

Philippine Heart Center Staff Nurse Requirements

The Human Resource Division will entertain applicants every Wednesday to Friday, from 1 PM to 4 PM. Only applicants with COMPLETE requirements shall be entertained.

List of Requirements:

• Transcript of Records with Special Order Number (with Related Learning Experience Form)


• Certification of General Weighted Average (GWA) score from school


• Certificate of Board Rating and PRC License (2 copies)


• Certificate of Work Experience and Trainings


• Membership in any organization (preferably PNA)


• NBI Clearance


• Residence Certificate (Cedula)


• Birth Certificate of applicant and dependents


• Marriage Certificate (if applicable)


• 2x2 ID Picture (3 pieces)


• Must not be more than 35 years of age

Note: Bring original and photo copies.

Oh! By the way, I also saw this significant yet unverified note attached to their bulletin board stating:

ATTENTION: All Staff Nurse Applicants

Human Resource Division will not be accepting applicants temporarily effective December 3, 2007 Until Further Notice. - HRD

Coffee, anyone?

Pride and Prejudice

I'm currently feeling quite off and a bit whiny due to a number of stupid and absurd emotional baggage. Not to mention that my bank account's quickly depreciating because of my impulsive behavior during the weekend. Ughhh. Usually, I'd go to the nearest and/or farthest coffee shop around the metro, order anything that has tons of caffeine, chat with the accommodating baristas, drink super expensive coffee till I drop, and, on rare occasions, talk to strangers about my jaded-f*cking life. Weird, right? :(

Surprisingly, I got this sudden insatiable urge to rummage through my book collection and grab anything that I fancy. Then, I saw this dusty book ("Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen) I bought a couple of months ago at Fully Booked Gateway with my best friend, Carina. Upon noticing that I have read a couple of pages (thanks to a random bookmark), I sort of decided to reread the entire thing just to refresh my aging brain. Haha. :)

Anyways, we all know this wonderful masterpiece by heart. I mean, seriously, who doesn't? It is enticing, funny and definitely romantic. Plus, it touches a sensitive part of the society in a hilarious yet intellectual manner. Yes, I have watched 2 of its adaptations and I seriously love the 1980 BBC mini-series version. It covers the majority of the text in precise sequence, not to mention the relaxing and amusing details that recent adaptations tend to ignore. :D

I definitely can't wait to finish this classic right at my fingertips. Reading how uniquely Fitzwilliam Darcy (Pride) fell in love with Elizabeth Bennet (Prejudice) makes the whole reading ordeal utterly romantic and stimulating.

Coffee, anyone? :)

Confusion

A month after an unlikely meeting, everything appears vague.

I thought you were different.

I thought you were special.

I thought you were serious.

I thought you were up to the challenge.

Unfortunately, you're a generic; just like everyone else.

I'm assuming that we're officially done.

You'll remain to be a mere memory of the past the needs to be forgotten. STAT.

The end.

iPhone in Pinas

Seriously?! As in SERIOUSLY?!

According to Mac-A-Doodle, Singaporean Telecommunications (also known as SingTel), along with its partly-owned affiliates, has secured agreements with Apple to release the Apple iPhone in Singapore (on SingTel), Australia (on Opus), India (on Bharti Group) and the Philippines (on Globe). We all need to wait some time later this year for further juicy details.

Yipee! :D Good thing I'm using Globe. Haha. I just can't wait to get my hands on that nifty and fashionable device. Save money. Save money. SAVE MONEY!! Grrr.

Coffee, anyone? :)

Crazy Thoughts: Quotable Quotes Part 2

Yes, I know. This entry is long overdue. As I have said during my past entries, I've been preoccupied with a number of things, most of which are as trivial as house-hold chores and bumming around. Haha. Anyways, I have received a number of significant and contemplative text messages from some of my friends and/or colleagues and, as always, I personally think that sharing them to the world wide web would be seriously rewarding and fun. Haha. :)

• If you think that the person you love does not love you, you're right. Because if he/she does, there is no way he/she would let you think that way. - Jara Jodloman


• If God solves your problem, you have faith in His abilities. If God does not solve your problem, He has faith in your abilities. - Mia Mangibin


• Don't make the same mistake twice. - Lira Labuntog


• Pride is tasteless, colorless and sizeless. Yet, it is the hardest thing to swallow. - Christian Guevarra


• Don't be afraid to take chances even if it might get you hurt. Just be strong and take it because you might miss that single chance to change your life and make you really happy. - Ren


• Before you ask questions, think about whether you really like to know the answers. - RC


• There are times when prayers is the only gift we can give to the people we care for. So, I pray to God to take care of you every moment of your life. - Shai


• The best feeling in the world comes when you start feeling good again after you've been feeling so awful. - Dana Guevara


• It is no being who everyone else wants you to be. It is about being yourself and finding someone who loves every bit of it. - JoPau Jacinto


• The fact that you cannot kiss your elbow is enough to make you realize that some things seem to be so close, yet, they ara bound to be beyond your reach. - JC Janda

Coffee, anyone? :)

AI7 Top 3 Performances

Wow. The American Idol Season 7 Top 3 contestants were stunningly awesome. Each gave the performance of their life in order to stay for next week's season finale. Of course, I loved David Archuleta's recital, especially his 3rd song, "Longer". Syesha and David C. were also good. I seriosly can't wait for tomorrow's anouncement. *Fingers crossed*wink*wink* :)

Oh! By the way, here's the guide for the Top 3's songs. I took the liberty of writing them all down for everyone's sake. Haha. :)

1. Judge's Choice


2. Contestant's Choice


3. Producer's Choice

1. And So It Goes - Paula Abdul


2. With You


3. Longer

1. If I Ain't Got You - Randy Jackson


2. Fever


3. Hit Me Up

1. First Time I Ever Saw Your Face - Simon Cowell


2. Dare You To Move


3. I Don't Want To Miss A Thing

Coffee, anyone? :)

My Hypothalamus Out-Loud

*Name Here*,

Greetings in the name of Saint Thomas Aquinas!

Surprise! Haha. I just thought of droppin' you an e-mail para maiba naman ang feel sa mga bagay-bagay. Besides, I explain myself rather better in writing than in other methods of communication. Haha. Anyways, kamusta ka na? I haven't heard anything from you in days kaya nangangamusta and napadaan lang ako. Haha.

Anyways ulet, it has been a month since I've come to know you, *Name Here*. A month of mixed and complex emotions siya, actually. But, generally masaya. Up until now, ambivalent ako sa feelings ko about us: minsan, naiinis ako sa fact na we can't see each other more often due to our situation and, if ever we do squeeze some stolen time, it has a specific deadline that really frustrates me. At times naman, super masaya ako sa situation natin, especially when we're together. Kahit na short and fleeting encounter lang sa car mo or sa mall, okay na 'ko. A kiss and/or a hug from you dispels all of my frustrations back inside my hallow and small brain. Haha.

But, despite this contradicting feelings, I'm happy that I've known you. I'm learning a lot about myself from this thing we have, whatever this is, and it is very fruitful and enlightening. Wherever this might lead us sa future, I honestly don't know. But I seriously hope that it'll be for the best of both worlds, yours and mine.

I like you, *Name Here*. And, katulad ng nasabi ko sa'yo before, if given the chance to know you better, I'd most probably love you (although nasabi ko na ata yun sa'yo sa YM or something). I just hope that I would be given that kind of opportunity sometime in the future. *fingers crossed* Also, I know that I may have said some things na painful, narrow-minded-ish and stupid last week, and for that I am deeply sorry. I'm not taking them back, though. I just want to be honest with you.

I just hope that you feel the same way...

Sige. I took much of your time na and this drama queen thing of mine seriously sucks! Haha. Grabe!

In Saint Thomas,

Juan Paulo G. Gultiano, RN

Note: I sent this email about a month ago to someone very dear and special and, as I was rummaging and reading through my sent folder, I noticed that this message seriously came from a good side of my brain and definitely spoke what my head was shouting all along. Nice one, if I say so myself, thank you. Nevertheless, what's done is done. I can't mend things that are not supposed to be mend, right?

Coffee, anyone?

Happy Mother's Day, Mom!

Happy Mother's day, Mom! :)

I was supposed to write something significant or pleasing about my mom. But, unfortunately, my ironic and sarcastic mother has no intention and capability to read this entry online (she hates reading my entries due to an unknown reason). So, I've decided to just post this traditional picture with my younger sister and my beloved mother just to have a motherly mist around my blog. Haha. :)

Coffee, Mom (She likes her coffee EXTRA HOT)? Haha. :D

IVT Completion at the NKTI: Day 3

Here is the final installment of my 3-day IVT Completion at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute. I know, I know. This entry has been long overdue since I have been very busy with a number of petty things, which I will, eventually, narrate at some point during this lifetime. Nevertheless, here's the conclusion of my completion. :)

Day 3: Panic

Panic- Panic disorder produces a sudden onset of feelings of intense apprehension and dread.

After finishing all the required number of cases necessary for my IVT card, I journeyed back to the NKTI to have my form checked. Ma'am Jarry scrutinized all the entries I made on my form just to ascertain its validity. After which, she instructed me to retype/rewrite everything and have the new form signed appropriately. So, my body automatically increased its Epinephrine levels as I dashed my way home. It felt as if I was to have a panic disorder or something of that sort, since I wanted to finish everything ASAP. Grrr. Type. Type. Type. It took me about an hour and a half to finish my form. Print. Print. Print. I then, again, surged my way back to the NKTI to have my form signed to avoid the lunch break. Unfortunately, I saw Ma'am Jarry on her way to lunch and she instructed me to have lunch and wait for my turn. Grrrr.

After lunch, I got my form signed appropriately and I immediately decided to submit everything at the ANSAP office located at the Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Sta. Mesa, Manila. Took the MRT at the GMA Kamuning Station. Got-off the Shaw MRT Station and took a Quiapo-bound PUJ. Upon arriving at their uber small office, I was insturcted to submit the following items:

• Accomplished IVT Completion Form (2 copies)


• 1 piece of a 2x2 Picture


• Certificate of attendance to an ANSAP accredited IVT training seminar


• Application fee of Php. 350.00

After that, I got my official receipt and was advised to claim my IVT card and IVT Completion form by next month at their new office located at the Lung Center of the Philippines along East Avenue. Yipee! At least it'll be in close proximity of the Philippine Heart Center. I certainly hope that it'll be a bigger and better office. Haha. :)

Overall, my Php. 700 IVT completion at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute was very fruitful and definitely rewarding. Considering the fact that I was able to finish the required number of cases within the first 2 days at the emergency room and got the chance to experience a fast-paced and nerve-wrecking ER scenario was seriously prosperous. I'll definitely miss hearing and following Dr. Montoya's orders. Whatever they may be. Haha. :D

Coffee, anyone?

Crazy Thoughts: I Cost Php1,105.00 (WTF)

I read this absurd yet amusing bulletin at Friendster and, due to my insatiable curiosity, I followed the directions as stated. Being an Obsessive-Compulsive myself, I ticked all the relevant items religiously, and came up with the sum of Php1,105.00 (that's Philippine Peso, by the way).

WHAT THE F*CK?! What's that supposed to mean?! :)

Anyways, I thought of posting this pleasurable entry here just for the sake of it. Do enjoy reading this crazy post! Haha.

Directions: You look over the following list and see how many of these things you have done. BUT you have to ADD up the money/amount along the way. Then post the amount that you have as the title of the bulletin.

1. Had sex: Php30.00
2. Smoked: Php100.00
3. Drank alcohol: Php100.00
4. Went skinny dipping: Php20.00
5. Kissed someone of the opposite sex: Php90.00
6. Kissed someone of the same sex: Php10.00
7. Cheated on a test: Php10.00
8. Fell asleep in class: Php10.00
9. Been expelled: Php10.00
10. Been in a fist fight: Php40.00
11. Given oral: Php60.00
12. Got oral: Php60.00
13. Prank called the police: Php10.00
14. Stole something: Php10.00
15. Done drugs: Php20.00
16. Dyed your hair: Php50.00
17. Done something sexually with someone older (like a few years): Php20.00.
18. Courted someone OVER 18 (if your under 18): Php50.00
19. Ate a whole bag of Oreos: Php60.00
20. Cried yourself to sleep: Php10.00
21. Said you love someone but didnt mean it: Php95.00
22. Been in love: Php90.00
23. Got caught doing something that you shouldnt have been doing: Php80.00
24. Went streaking: Php5.00
25. Got arrested: Php10.00
26. Cuddled: Php95.00
27. Peed in the pool: Php5.00
28. Played spin the bottle: Php30.00
29. Done something you regret: Php70.00

Now add up and post as "I COST Php......"

Coffee, anyone? :D