This blog aims not only to make people laugh, but also to inspire others, instill positive values...in short, to make this world a little better, a little happier. This blog is meant to bless (in my own little way) all those who read it. It's my way of saying "I love you more and more".
I wonder if I should write on my blog for the meantime. Typing is a torture. I continue to have pain. And I don't want to depress my readers with my pain.
Every day I pray. All day long. Especially at night when at everthing is at it's worst.
I can hardly work. But I am hopeful do continue doing this blog. I want to contribute my story to MMK and to Star Cinema. And I want to write a book. With modern technology this can be done.
My prayers at night are varied...of frustration and of hope, of thanksgiving and of despair, of pain and of relief, of gratefulness to my mom and gratititude to Mama Mary, from wanting to go and from staying on to fulfill my mission...a kalleidoscope of desperation, hopes and dreams. My mind is all mixed up.
But I know in the end that God willl fix up everything. There will be tranquility.
I amwell-loved. Almost daily I get visitors to give me hope, consolation, presence also food and financial blessings. I am not able to digest the food yet but I am grateful for the thought. So, I pray for my visitors and they almost always cry. It is my gift to them. Because gratititude is all I can give at this points. Yest my life is one big thank you!
I was hospitalized for about 9 days. And it seems that the torture continues. I keep crying and crying. My multiple myeloma has worsened. More symptoms have emerged. Vomitting. Low appetite. Chest pains so severe I have to cry. My bipolar disorder is evident. Part of me is longing only for the will of God. Another part wants to "let go" already. I have started calling up and informing friends that when the time comes, my sister shall contact them.
An incident stands out. I was praying the Hail Mary. Then I fell into a deep sleep. It was peace.
I contacted a friend and she wanted to cry for me. And what better reason for her love for me when she could not tell me that it was her son's wedding!.
Thank You, Lord, for the blessings amidst the pains.
I was able to finish two reports. That feeling of accomplishment again!
Now, I am working on a questionnaire. Not familiar with the subject matter so have to do research.
Last October 31. It was my father's 10th death anniversary. There were few of us - Oyie's family (minus Angie but plus Trina's boyfriend, my family (but my son left early), Nerick's family (his daughter, Nancy tried to explain my collapsed thoracic cage. Absent were kuya's family ( He is in Bangladesh) and Norenz's family (they live in Malaybalay, Bukidnon).
Dennis, Trina's boyfriend, brought mango tort from Cuervo. Nice guy.
Other food were pancit malabon, chichen inasal, chicken salad, fruit salad, rice, mais con hielo, and soft drinks. Usual family fare.
I'm glad for these settogethers. And I am grateful when someone (my sister) drops by to give grilled liempo, and chichiria (Clover chips, Oishi Prawn Crackers, and Jack & Jill Chiz Curls).
Yesterday, was a terrible night of pain. Okay that's it.
I can barely sleep. My chest and back hurts so much! Sorry for bothering you with these "complaints".
But I can't help it. This blog is not all sugar and spice and everything nice. I have to show my human side, too.
Let me describe my condition...
...since my thoracic cage has collapsed, I feel a stabbing pain in my chest constantly; I find it painful to lie down and get up from bed
...my back (including buttocks) hurts that I have difficulty standing or sitting or walking
...I have to raise my hands slowly when I dress up, that stabbing pain again
Okay, that's enough. I ask only for your prayers. There is a reason for everything. Whatever purpose there is to all these, I trust it is for God's greater glory.
My friend, Andy, posted photos of our barkada (gang) named Kappa Pi Pi fraternity [The girls were named NPN for "napagod na" sa "kapapaypay" hehe). Andy labeled the album "Photos of Nimia" which he borrowed from Olan. Last night, Olan texted me, "Hi nim. Have u seen d old kpp pics that andy posted on facebook? Some of those came from your album, which I scanned a long time ago. Andy kasi asked for a copy...ok lng b with u that he posted them on fb?
I answered, "Ok n ok. I lukd pretty n all f dem hehe."
And Olan said,"Cool! For a while, I got worried you wud mind...andy kasi, I told him not to post basta basta...yes, you wer pretty..."
Okay, so let's go down in memory lane (college years):
Here was how I looked back then.
In A.S....
Here, I was beside one of my boyfriends (partially covered):
Another boyfriend...
At a beach in Matabungkay.
A series of pictures of a "surprise" birthday party for me. How sweet!
Fina's debut...
At a party held in Fina's house.
Another party...
This is Olan, one of my closest, dearest friends. He is one of my son's ninongs (godfathers), So, what's your verdict? Alas! My pretty days are long gone! (But at least, I don't feel ugly.)
My doctor prescribed Augmentin. I took it but began itching. I looked up Augmentin in the Internet and true enough, it contains Amoxycillin, the antibiotic I am allergic to. My doctor immediately texted me to tell me to discontinue taking Augmentin then prescribed three other medicines which serve as anti-allergy.
-------- I am still not through with one of my reports because the data are not yet all in. Then for the other one, I am expected to write the report in 3 days's time. I can only laugh.
Yesterday, I spent quite some time contacting research agencies to quote for two studies to be conducted here in the Philippines. But it seems the timelines are impossible.
Boy, why do clients require deliverables "yesterday"? I can only laugh!
-------- Tomorrow, we will be back to the hospital for my velcade treatment. My son had to take the day-off as he will assist me pushing my wheelchair, paying, etc. Mom is going with us since she has to go for her rehabilitation session.
Any doctor will tell you that pain is a sign or symptom that there is something wrong with your body. It is an EWD (early warning device).
Throughout the day and especially at night, I am in pain. But somehow, it has subsided from a high level of 8 to just about 5. I still have difficulty getting up from bed.
So, I offer my pain to those who are suffering and to sinners. I don't know but I have a particular concern for those who are not likely to be accepted in heaven should they die any time soon. I wish God will receive my sacrifice, my offering of pain to come to the aid of such sinners. That is one purpose of pain.
------ Yesterday, my older brother asked how we are. My second to the youngest brother sent P10,000 for financial aid. And my sister and her husband dropped by to bring dinner (adobong buto-buto, adobong pusit, and spaghetti. She also gave kisses with almonds to my son, rosquillos, and suman. How thoughtful my sister is!
------- I have been working on a long report but the data are slow in coming. We will just have to submit a partial report tomorrow. And the second part and Conclusions will have to wait till I have all data with me.
------- Tomorrow, I will be back to the hospital. My son will accompany me. Mom will come along for her rehabilitation session. (The good news is that she is well enough not to have a hot compress for her hips and feet. Thank You, Lord!)
------ I just got off the phone right now. My friend is also not feeling well. Her family must have caught some virus. Oh no, it's in the air!
That signals to me that I should wear a mask when I go out.
I just came from a weeklong "vacation". My room was airconditioned, had its own comfort room, well-lit, and I could call for "service" anytime. My bed can even be raised or lowered. I was served food 6 times a day.
You guessed right. I did not stay in a hotel room but a hospital room. I underwent all sort of tests - daily CBC, two x-rays, 1 city scan, 1 ultrasound. I was visited daily by my doctor. On my last day, a G.I. specialist went to see me. She said I have air in my billary tree but she does not recommend medication nor any intervention. What she was more concerned about was the presence of lymph nodes, one as big as 5.5 cm. They have to be biopsied to determine if they are tumors or not.
The official reason for my being admitted is that I have pneumonia. It turned out that the real culprit is my multiple myeloma causing haziness in my lung xrays. And my rib cage has collapsed causing me severe pain.
Except for the first night, mom stayed with me the whole time. My son would come from time to time to bring stuff from home. I was visited at different times by my older brother and his wife, and by my sister.
I finished reading a book (a lousy one), solved Sudoku puzzles, watched TV including a Piolo Pascual and Regine Velasquez movie. Of course, I'm glad that I did not miss "100 Days to Heaven".
Because of my being in the hospital, I was not able to do one report. When I asked the Client about it, she said it is already completed and submitted to end-Client. Anyway, there will always be a next time, she said.
I am working on a report which is due next week. They are asking for a presentation but mom did not allow me because I will be again exposed. My immune system is down so I really have to wear my mask. Someone else would do the presentation but I am committed to finish the report by Sunday or Monday at the latest.
This late afternoon, I edited a short report. It's already paid for so I'm glad to deduct from my advances.
My friend gifted me with a new cane. How nice of her! God bless her.
Lord, I offer this pain to all those who are suffering.
This week until end October (or early November) I will be writing three reports. I have already started preparing report templates. I am eager to start analyzing already. Three different studies, different objectives. How challenging and fun!
I am still having chest pains. Could just be heart burn. But at least, Tramadol, the pain killer prescribed for me seems to be working. I have difficulty walking and carrying stuff though so I move around like a zombie, hand to my chest.
I went to the hospital last Monday but turns out that the people administering treatment were all absent, their rest day. So, I just had a CBC, ate at the canteen, had a chest x-ray, and got my mom's MRI results.
Mom is now in the hospital, accompanied by my son. Hope her condition is nothing serious.
It's all quiet here. Am all alone. Just waiting for my lunch to arrive. Then maybe I will take a nap or play some games.
It is taking me ages to finish the book, "The Front" by Patricia Cornwell. It is dragging.
Mom and I watched the finale of "The Biggest Loser". Wow, all those heavy men and women losing so much weight and looking so much better! I am happy for each one of them.
I just prepared part of the template for a report.
My second to the youngest brother and her daughter dropped by today. They brought pancit canton, fish fillet and chicken. Delicious!
My son and I decided to keep the Acer Notebook. We could both use it.
This afternoon, I was alarmed when something (a bone) snapped somewhere over my heart. We all have heard the term "heart-broken" but "heart-bone broken"? It still hurts. Hope it is nothing.
I prepared my income tax form today - for the month of September and for the third quarter.
Tomorrow, I will be in the hospital again. The Diagnostic Center will be inaugurated in the morning so we will have to stay in the canteen to pass the time.
I hope I will be able to collect enough money. Our cash on hand is fast depleting and we have to pay my mom's credit card by the 16th.
Lord, please provide! And thank You for all the blessings You send my way.
This week, I went to the hospital twice, revised a questionnaire a number of times, revised a report a number of times, submitted two papers to WriterBay, etc.
So here are the specifics.
Last Monday, we "hired" a friend to assist me at the hospital. She pushed my wheelchair, paid bills, bought food (lots of it) and waited with me. I had a battery of lab tests and she got the results. While waiting in the canteen, an elderly woman chatted with us. She, too, is sick with several ailments. Nice lady.
In the chemo room, the secretary had a problem. She had to sell her new Acer Aspire One Netbook for P15,000 because her son owed that much money. He may be in danger if he did not pay up soon. So kind-hearted me, looked for buyers, but to no avail. I decided to buy it myself. But my mom scolded me and got mad when she found out. We are not rich enough to afford such luxuries. I was able to borrow from my niece to meet the deadline, then a client was willing to lend the money in advance of projects and workshops in the future.
Back to the hospital story, we waited for my doctor. My lab results were all good except that my calcium is high. He asked me to see my hematologist who true enough, said that the high calcium is due to my multiple myeloma. She prescribed an injectible medicine which turned out to be expensive. It was delivered the next day. I had to go back to be administered with the medicine on Wednesday.
Still last Monday, I gave the driver a tip for his whole day service. He was able to do three other errands while waiting for us.
We had a wonderful dinner of adobong buto-buto cooked by my sister's maid. How heavenly delicious!
Then, on Wednesday, mom, the driver and I went to the hospital again. Me, to have my medicine administered. My mom saw her two doctors, and even had an MRI. I enjoyed my lunch of chicken with sauce (how descriptive!).
But I had a bum stomach. When we were in Mercury Drugstore, I could not help it anymore I begged the manager if I could use their CR. So there I went, just in time! The next thing I said after "thank you" was "do you have a medicine stronger than Immodium?" ha ha.
My ongoing projects are an employee opinion survey (hopefully the excel file I finished this morning is the last of Client's requirements), an online survey (questionnaire stage), a usage and attitude study (awaiting data tables for analysis), and a concept and price test (also waiting for tabulation to finish). Pending are a translation job, an FGD which might be converted to a quantitative study, another FGD (2 groups) for which I was asked to analyze, a collation job, and a few more.
I was able to finish my paper on punctuation, and a review of "A Rose for Emily". Fun!
My son immediately found use for our new netbook. He brought it to the office today to post pictures of the store of which he is the new branch manager. (It is his fifth branch already.) He was sick this morning and even threw up. Hyperacidity. Good thing mom had medicine around. He was able to go to work.
After finishing my two rush jobs this morning, my friend's driver picked me up. We went to a client to get a check and I encashed it right away. My friend gave me a cane and people were kind enough to give me their number and a seat. I haven't sat for long when my number was called.
When we reached home, I bought six pieces of kwek-kwek.
Great week! And it is not completely over. One of my brothers is coming to visit us this Sunday. Something to look forward to.
Yes, I love and enjoy writing! I hope that by reading this blog, it shows.
My meeting yesterday was fruitful. We discussed details of the project and changes in the questionnaire. I just ordered iced mocha (I don't know the spelling of "frappocino").
My client-friend and I were supposed to have lunch but since we were both busy, he just gave me lunch money. Mom and I ordered from Mcdo but they were late in coming. -------- For lunch today, my youngest brother and his family came to visit. They brought chicken and pancit Malabon. Yummy! I got to drink Coke Light.
Good news is my brother is interested in joining writerbay. I stand to earn 3% of his work if he gets accepted. Yey.
Since my last post, strong typhoons had hit the Philippines. Much devastation in many places. People, including, children have died. No electricity. Makes me sad. I pray for those who have suffered and are still suffering because of storms.
On a happier note, the reason I haven't been able to blog is that I have been busy. With what?
- I applied for WriterBay. I had to take a grammar and citation style test (I got 27 out of 30) questions. I was asked to upload my college diploma (I asked my son to scan it for me) and I proudly uploaded it. And I was tasked to write a sample essay. So, at first, I researched and came up with an essay which was mostly second-hand information. But when I inquired, I was supposed to express my personal views on the topic which is: What are the reasons behind the success of long-running TV series like M.A.S.H. So, I watched a total of 8 episodes online and enjoyed it thoroughly. Soooh funny. I was able to revise my essay and got accepted! So far, I applied for three cases and finished one, which was immediately approved by client. Yey. Now I have another sideline!
- I revised the questionnaire for an online survey that has been approved. Later at 11am, I will meet with Clients in Makati.
- I came up with categories on the answers to open-ended questions for one of my ongoing projects.
-------- For today and tomorrow, aside from my meeting, I will revise a report, attend to my writing assignment/s, and if I still have time, prepare a discussion guide for an FGD.
-------- Yesterday, a friend came to visit but he couldn't stay long since he had an appointment with his dietitian. He underestimated traffic. I had to remind him it was Friday and payday. He was sweet enough to bring food from Red Ribbon - spaghetti and ensaymada.
Then in the evening, I attended a party in Makati. A friend based abroad is in town so members of our college gang got together. What fun! There were jokes, "alaskahan" (ridiculing of one another and even of friends who were not around) and light talk. Occasionally, we discussed serious matters like the government and taxes.
Food was great - pasta, salad, longganisa flakes, and roasted chicken. We also had two kinds of cake for dessert. Drinks were plentiful - softdrinks, water, beer and wine.
Of course, there was a lot of picture-taking.
------ Hope I would be able to post again soon. See ya!
Yup. I had a super nice day yesterday! We requested my son to make today his day-off so he can accompany me to the hospital.
We didn't have a hard time finding a cab to and from the hospital.
We were early so there were a lot of wheelchairs. (They have a new system though. We had to leave an I.D., they gave us a number, and we were supposed to return the wheelchair to claim our I.D.).
I was with my son for hours! Talk about mother and son bonding. My son followed my mom's instructions as closely as he could. Good job, I would say.
We ate in the canteen. Mango shake then later binagoongan with rice for me (brunch). Omelet and doughnut and iced coffee for him (breakfast).
My platelet count is quite low so they gave me a lower dosage of Velcade. At least, our efforts at going to the hospital and having a CBC taken were not wasted.
Before going home, we bought chocolate and peanuts.
Back to the condo, I let my son play and use the computer for about thirty minutes. Then, I proceeded to do tab specs and revised the corresponding questionnaires.
Our dinner was spaghetti (mom did the heating).
As usual, I enjoyed watching "100 Days to Heaven". The new actor playing the role of Teddy Ledesma looks so much like my son! Haha.
I tinkered with my old laptop. It was sooooh jurassic it took ages to do anything. Oh well, I have a feeling someone will be giving me a new laptop next year.
I asked an agent if I should have cited my sources in my sample essay. The answer was in the affirmative. So, I was instructed to revise my essay and submit it to the support department. Hmm, not an easy task but I am willing to do it.
So, all in all, it was a super nice day.
As I write this, I could hear the wind howling. We have a new typhoon. Good thing I will not be leaving the condo today and the next few days.
I will revise my essay and a questionnaire today. Looking forward to doing both.
I am venturing into two potentially money-earning endeavors.
One, I am trying to get accepted at WriterBay. I have done all the requirements except one - I need to upload my college diploma. I will ask my son to help scan it.
Two, I have joined MarketSensus. It has something to do with affiliate marketing and other stuff.
I stand to earn in dollars from these two. Yey.
I was attracted to another job, translating. Looks easy but the sad part is I have to shell out money first to pay for membership. Could be a scam. So I didn't pursue it. ------ Yesterday, my sister visited us. She brought spaghetti, lumpiang shanghai, pineapples, mangoes and eggs. My kind-hearted sister. She stayed a while to talk about her new job and some of their events. Glad to know she had fun.
Today, my older brother passed by. He brought breakfast from McDonald's. Longsilog (longganisa or sausage, sinangag or fried rice, and itlog or fried egg). Mom was given coffee as well. My Kuya had a sausage sandwich.
I have been busy these past few days working on a questionnaire for an online survey. I decided to pre-test it among some friends and family members. So far, eight have responded. I am awaiting two more. I prepared a 12-question survey online just to test the site. Anyway, it is free.
Kuya consulted me on a research project he wants to conduct. He asked me to clear the questionnaire he will be formulating. I asked him to answer my questionnaire while he was here in the condo.
Today, two maintenance guys cleaned our two airconditioners and two electric fans. It was long overdue.
For WriterBay, I had to study the different citation styles. I was also asked to write an essay on why M.A.S.H. is among the longest-running TV series. I researched by searching/surfing the net, logging on to YahooAnswers and YouTube, and interviewing some friends. I entitled my essay, "Why M.A.S.H. is a Smash Hit".
Whew! I counted the projects that I have/will have this month and next and it numbered about ten! That's a wow!
That means two things: I will be extremely busy and (more importantly hehe) I will have a lot of money. We could save as much as we can, maybe splurge a little (eat at Cabalen perhaps), and/or ask our regular donors (family members) to stop giving money in the meantime. I leave the decision to my mom.
So today, I am supposed to revise a report, come up with a questionnaire or two, and prepare tab specs based on two questionnaires. Busy, busy...that's me.
Mom seems to be feeling better these days, after consulting her doctor and taking muscle relaxants and pain killers. But the pain recurs though not to the same degree as before.
My brother just had his gall bladder removed. His laparoscopy was a success. Thank God!
Life is great! And I have the Lord to thank plus all my loved ones and clients.
I finished my FGD report today. It is due September 27, so I am several days ahead of schedule. Anyway, that would give time to two consultants to react and give feedback, including suggestions for improvement.
--------- Yey, I have a new Client. It is a relatively new marketing research company. The owner/head used to work for Pulse/AC Nielsen so I know her. Already, we are talking about 2 possible projects. There would be more for sure. Thank You, Lord!
--------- I might have an FGD this October or November for a client-friend. I would either be both the facilitator and analyst, or analyst only. Looking forward to it. -------- My older brother called to consult about a study he wants to be conducted. I took down notes and came up with a written research design. Glad to be of help. -------- I had my CBC this morning. The medtech came to our condo. My mom got the results: good news is that my platelet count is now normal, bad news is my hemoglobin went down.
-------- My mom finally went to see her rheumatologist. Painkillers and other medicines were prescribed. She can continue with our home remedies. My son accompanied her to the hospital to push her wheelchair. My sister's driver drove for my mom and son. They right away bought medicines and they bought lunch from KFC.
So, the food I ordered (meat balls and eggplant omelet) will be for another meal or two. I ate spaghetti of KFC. I set aside the salad they bought for me.
Then, my niece dropped by to give Country Chicken. Delicious! She also brought buchi for mom. She took a nap in our bedroom. Poor niece, she lacks sleep these days. -------- I thank God for family, friends and food! What do you know? Triple F ha ha.
Each day, I wake up early to fix breakfast for my mom and myself. I boil water for her coffee. I prepare her food which is pandesal and something else.
From time to time, I put her hot compress bag in the microwave because the heat eases the pain. I really hope she will see her rheumatologist this Wednesday. It is my son's day-off and we can "borrow" my sister's driver and car.
I also prepare/"cook" lunch and dinner. I help when she bathes herself or goes to the restroom.
I am glad I am able to show I care for my mom. In a way, this is a small repayment of her sacrifices for me. ------------ I finished reading David Baldacci's "First Family". Suspenseful, interesting, informative even. Nice read!
Now, I have a choice between "Memoirs of a Geisha" (I have watched the movie) and "The Front". I am inclined to read the latter first. ------------ This afternoon I enjoyed watching Nestle's filmography, Kasambuhay Habambuhay. Funny, amusing, entertaining, heart-warming, touching, and more. I have just a few more to watch. I highly recommend that you view them in YouTube. You wait regret it, I guarantee.
------------ My youngest brother was supposed to come and visit but it seems that he couldn't due to errands (nine of them). As usual, it was my sister and her eldest daughter who visited. They brought pancit palabok, puto, grilled liempo, fish fillet, siomai, apple strudel and softdrinks. They helped clean up after. We have enough leftovers to last us for days. Yey. ------------ I might have a new project. It is a translation job. My friend recommended two translators from Ilocano/Cebuano to Tagalog. I will do the typing. So, part of the fee goes to me. I just hope there won't be a conflict with my FGD report. ------------ I have been reading Chicken Soup for the Soul stories (emailed to me regularly). I plan to write some stories. They will pay $200 per story. Not bad. ------------ I am exhausted but I feel good. Coz I've been good.
For the past few days, my mom has been in pain, she can barely walk. Poor mom! It breaks my heart to hear her suffer and the word "Aray!" (Ouch!) is constantly coming from her mouth.
And so, from morning till night, I am her maid, nurse, caregiver, etc. It's a good thing my son was on leave from Tuesday to Thursday this week. He helps around by cooking and buying stuff like pandesal from the convenience store. (My mom has not been eating rice recently to lose some weight.)
I searched the net for the definition, cause and remedy of rheumatism. My ever dependable computer gave the answers. So, my son will buy potatoes, apple cider and honey for my mom.
------- I am starting to write an FGD report but the notes I have so far are on the first 3 groups. The last 3 are being conducted today.
I might have another FGD in October and November. A client-friend asked for costs of facilitation, note-taking and analysis. I will definitely do the analysis. But if I am not well enough to be the moderator, I have asked 2 of my friends for their fees. Hope the project gets approved. ------ I talked to two friends today. By coincidence, both of them just lost their respective mothers. One died of old age, the other, of pneumonia. I am all the more grateful that mom is still around.
------ Since there will be a transportation strike on Monday, I am exempted from going to the hospital for my regular treatment. Yey. Saves us some money. ------ I was finally paid by a friend-client. They were able collect from the end-user only last Friday and had to wait for the check to clear.
I feel bad for a friend who acted as guarantor for a loan of about P100,000. The amount has not been paid. Hope they will be able to collect soon. ------ Filipinos still have the Ms. Universe fever. We are all so proud of Shamcey Supsup. I just love her answer in the Q & A portion. She should have won, but of course, I am biased. ------ The website I revised is almost done. I did my part and gave them options regarding the mission, vision and values. I gave suggestions to improve the look of the site. Hope the new website will draw many visitors and win Clients for them. ------ My former neighbor gave a "lifetime supply" of chicharon (pork rind), plus salted egg colored white (instead of red, so I mistook them for balut), cornik, and pastillas (for my mom). What a kind soul. He will come and visit before the end of the month. ------ I think I need a change of celphone. My old one looks so ugly and "dilapidated" already because I keep dropping it. I can hardly hear voice calls. Good thing celphones cost so little these days. ------
Yesterday, I ate the best adobong pusit I've ever tasted! It was a little spicy but just right. I had it for lunch and dinner yesterday, and for dinner again today. Yummy!
I was able to finish my quantitative report and am just waiting for feedback from one of the consultants before finalizing it. I will be paid already for said project. Great!
I am getting better and better at Bookworm. The highest level I've attained is Master(or Supreme) Archivist. Yey.
I have time now to read the book I started. The one entitled "The First Family". It is hardbound and thick so I didn't bring it yesterday to the hospital. Instead, I brought my Sudoku book and solved some puzzles.
I have revised a company's website but I still need additional info from them. I had fun thinking of taglines for the said company and after more than a week, they decided on one which I liked, too.
I might have another online survey. I will be asked to finalize the questionnaire, maybe come up with tables, and analyze the results. Exciting!
My other quantitative study has been launched and fieldwork is being conducted. My next step is to prepare the tab specs for the two questionnaires under the project.
I'm bz as a b. Sorry for not blogging since last Tuesday.
I have been...
...preparing presentation materials on a book
...revising two questionnaires
...revising a proposal
...doing the sampling design for a quantitative study
...preparing a report due asap
Of course, I still take time to play Bookworm or Scrabble Sprint.
And I finished reading "Mitigating Circumstances" by Nancy Taylor Rosenberg. I am starting to read another book, entitled "The First Family" by best-selling author, David Baldacci.
-------- I have more projects/tasks coming up...
...a quantitave study where I will be asked to finalize the questionnaire and prepare the report. I might also do some tabulation.
...a qualitative study of six FGD groups.
...revision of a website.
...tab specs for a quantitative study
--------- My mom and son went to the grocery yesterday. I asked for shampoo, deodorant and feminine wash. They also bought chichiria (junk food) for me, but not chicharon. My friend texted me that he will give me chicharon with taba (fat). Yey.
--------- My friend was kind enough to give me the next batch of Sambuhay. We are to exchange reflections through email.
-------- As much as possible, I use the stationery in my new Yahoo every time I send out an email. A friend said she was envious of my having so many designs. Ha ha. --------
I haven't had time to do a lot of chatting. But as soon as I get the chance, I will continue doing so to keep in touch with friends and relatives.
-------- Here is a pretty picture I saw in a website:
I had the wonderful privilege of having seen and visited the most creative, fun, interesting, and informative website ever! [It was voted as the most innovative marketing research company.]But don't just take my word for it. Come and visit www.brainjuicer.com.
I took their creativity test, hoping I will be among the top 6% most creative people. Ha ha, how ambitious of me!
I also watched one of their webinars on creativity.
I was so excited I wrote to them, asking if I can work with them.
No harm in trying, right? ----------- I am quite busy these days. I have a number of projects -
...preparing powerpoint slides on a book
...revising two questionnaires
...editing/revising a website
...and I am about to work on an employee opinion study (both quantitative and qualitative).
I love working! ----------- I am reading a nice book entitled "Mitigating Circumstances". I am almost finished with it. Thank God for books! ----------- Tomorrow, a client-friend will come over after lunch. We will work on a project and she will give me some money. Yey. ----------- Life is good...nope, not just good, it's great!
That's the title of a book but sorry, I can't recall where I came across it. Anyway, it's basically about the small things, the little deeds, that matter. These are acts of kindness to others.
I am grateful for the many opportunities that come my way to be able to do such "small" things. People ask me to pray for them or their loved ones. People ask help with things regarding the computer or the Internet. (I help search for the info that they need for instance.) I am willing to listen to friends in distress. People ask me to come up with creative ideas or to write various stuff - a letter, a poem, etc. People seek my advice and I am more than happy to give it. People ask me to comment on something they have done or written.
The list goes on...
But no matter the favor, I give it wholeheartedly. Yes, indeed, there is such as thing as the power of the small.
--------
A friend who visited me recently gave me lots of goodies- 2 bags of chicharon with special vinegar, peanuts, strawberry jam, dalanghita juice, sampaloc (tamarind), macapuno and ube balls. I immediately thanked him for his kindness and thoughtfulness! Mom was pleased, too, since she has a sweet tooth.
--------
Another friend came over yesterday and we had a Bibliarasal together. We prayed for each other and for our own needs. We thanked God for blessings received. We shared our reflections on the three readings for today. Then, we had some merienda. She was invited to a house blessing and she was the guest of honor. So, she did not eat a lot since there is sure to be a lot of food in the house blessing.
-------
My aunt gave me P500! I used the money to order food from a new restaurant in Shopwise called ICB (Inasal Chicken Bacolod). I ordered kare-kare, chicken inasal, garlic and plain rice, and Coke Zero. The bill was P464 so I said "keep the change" to the delivery boy. My son and I had a nice lunch.
Then, in the evening my sister and niece dropped by and brought four bottles of lotion. (I use lotion when massaging my mom's feet daily and we ran out of it.) They also brought grilled liempo from Grill Queen. Yummy!
-------
I finished reading "Sins of Omission"by Catherine Lanigan (sounds Filipino, right?). I enjoyed the book from start to finish but it's not a suspense thriller. It has romance, family, business, success, and vengeance in it. Nice read!
I am starting to read a new book, entitled "Mitigating Circumstances". Looks interesting, too.
-------
I am lifting excerpts from another book, "The Art of War" and I am looking for a nice powerpoint template for it.
-------
I noticed I haven't been sleeping that much anymore - no afternoon naps and I rise from bed each morning much earlier than before. That is probably because I am no longer taking thalidomide which causes somnolence or drowsiness. Yey, I have more time to work or play.
-------
I am glad that mom is no longer in pain. Her new doctor prescribed an effective medicine and she immediately felt better. Thank God for medicines!
-------
My mom is sound asleep right now. Me? After this, I shall play a few word games like Scrabble Sprint (at pogo.com) and Bookworm (at yahoo). Then, back to work.
-------
It's a nice Sunday!
How do you describe that feeling when you have finished a project knowing you did a good job and having enjoyed doing it every step of the way? It is more than a sense of accomplishment. I would say it was a job well-enjoyed and well-done from beginning to end.
Yes, I have finished lifting excerpts from an interesting book, "Beyond Disruption" by Jean-Marie Dru. Then, I came up with not one, but two, powerpoint versions. You see, I found the first one wordy and it lacked visuals. The second is condensed as I tried to remove as many extraneous words as I can find. With the extra space, I placed more pictures for greater visual appeal.
Praise God!
I have just said that I want to engage in creative thinking. Well, a number of people have told me that yes, they will give me creative assignments. And today, I was tasked to revise a company's website by giving suggestions for improvement and changing the wordings.
Moreover, I was asked to think of a good tagline for the said company. So, I came up with not one, but twenty-two, alternative taglines! Whew, quite taxing to the brain but what fun, too! I do hope the agency would be able to choose one of the 22, wishing that it is one of my personal favorites as well.
I love ginataang tahong! I ordered it for lunch...yummy! I also ate bopis (not bad).
The book I am currently reading for leisure is very interesting. It is a story of romance, family, success, vengeance and more. I am not yet half-way through but I just know I will enjoy reading the rest of the book, just like mom did. (I actually saw her clap her hands in satisfaction.) The Title? "Sins of Omission".
I was supposed to attend a client meeting today but I could not be fetched by my client-friend. It was a good thing since I have a bum stomach again.
I continued to play and work today (hence, "plark" as mentioned in previous post).
I keep discovering new word games and they are all fun!
I got to chat with a top executive of an ad agency and told him, one of my frustrations is to be a copywriter. I don't want to waste my writing skills and "corniness"! Ha ha. He advised me to moonlight with ad agencies. I was waiting for him to say that his agency would try me out, but he didn't. Oh well, someday...
So, I decided that I will do creative exercises in the meantime. I just want to expand my horizons, and make full use of my brain (but not to the extent of being drained, of course).
I also got to chat with a female pastor, my nephew (who is also my godson), and a popular director. I just love FB!
Last night, I watched "Knight and Day" and enjoyed it thoroughly. What would you expect from a movie starring Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz? Full of action, some humor, and a bit of romance. My kind of movie.
Mom wanted tartar sauce with her fish fillet but didn't know how. Solution is simple! I searched the net and watched a YouTube video on "how to make tartar sauce". When I visited another site, it was practically the same recipe plus 3 other versions.
Want to know how to make tartar sauce? Ingredients are one cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice (calamansi would do I guess), 1 tablespoon pickle relish, 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion, then season with salt and pepper. Put in ref for one hour before use.
I think it's high time I really learn how to cook. I will start with simple recipes. But I'm crossing my fingers, hoping this isn't going to be another "ningas kugon" (the closest translation I can think of is "touch and go").
My sister and niece visited. They brought me some tempura. Yehey! I have something for dinner already.
Mom went out this morning till early afternoon so she left me with P100 for lunch. I ordered beef kaldereta, rice and Coke Zero. Great!
My mom's masahista (masseuse) came today and massaged her from head to foot (not necessarily in that order). So, I need not massage my mom's feet today.
I texted my new friend saying "thank you" for the visit, the cake, and for paying the notary fee. I told him to feel free to drop by again when he is in the vicinity. He said, yes, he plans to visit again. Nice!
You might be wondering what "Plarked" means. Well, I just coined the term by combining "played" and "worked".
I kept playing various word games online. I discovered a new game, "Scrabble Sprint" at pogo.com. It's fun!
I think I shall continue exploring various games to challenge my mind.
And I worked while listening to songs in YouTube.
--------
Mom attended a party - a house blessing in Cavite. There were three lechons but of course, she was embarrased to bring home some. But she was bold enough to go to the kitchen and ask for a plate of lechon with her choice parts and the crunchy skin.
I just ate chicharon and tapsilog.
--------
Everyday, I learn something new. I just love computers! I love the Internet! There is so much I can enjoy and find out. And to think that my son says I am poor in technology. Ha ha.
Yesterday, I was busy formulating two questionnaires based on drafts prepared by client. I offered to be present in the next meeting to discuss the project.
Yesterday, mom went to the hospital to undergo a citiscan...Today, she got the results but we could not understand the findings. At least, we did not see the scary words "tumor" or "cancer". The word "cyst" though was there. I plan to google all the terms.
Today, I continued lifting excerpts from "Beyond Disruption". I also played Book Worm and listened to YouTube. I discovered a super talented young guitarist by the name of Sungha Jung. He's great!
Yesterday, my friend discussed a possible quantitative and qualitative study. Today, she said that both projects were approved. Yey.
Yesterday, a former "neighbor" visited me at our condo. Mom was curious, too, so she joined in our conversation.
He was thoughtful enough to bring cake. Delicious! Mom ate two slices right away.
We went down for a while to have something notarized. It's great to know that there is a notary public within our building.
We talked about many things...former neighbors, common friends, etc. (It seemed that he knew a lot of people!). It really is a small world. Glad to have a new friend.
-------
My client-friend was supposed to drop by today because we have a newly approved project. We were supposed to revise the questionnaire. I had a lot of questions so I did not start doing it yet. She said she will come tomorrow morning. She reset her meeting with the end client at 1 pm.
Glad to have a new project.
------
I am still lifting excerpts from "Beyond Disruption". But instead of just a word file, I want to come up with a Powerpoint version. Hope client would agree to it.
The other book,"The Art of War" by Sun Tzu, is still being read by my son. It is a classic and I consider it a privilege for me to get to read it.
-------
So what else is new?
I started reading another book for leisure, entitled "Sins of Omission". Mom enjoyed reading it so I decided to start reading it, too.
Mom went to a rheumatologist to complain about her aches and pains. She was asked to undergo Citiscan. I hope it is not anything serious.
I ate spicy adobong pusit from Cafe Denim. It was good enough, I finished everything.
My friend is celebrating her birthday soon. She asked if I can join her and her brother because the latter is treating us out. I think I am well enough to go out. Yey.
Yesterday, my sister and niece dropped by for dinner. They brought pancit palabok from Little Quiapo, grilled liempo from Grill Queen, puto from Nathaniels. They also brought softdrinks. I enjoyed the liempo especially, I almost finished it.
Today, after our Monday visit to the hospital, mom treated me to Sushi-ya. As usual, we ordered Bento box consisting of ebi tempura (3 pieces), hagedashi tofu, California Maki, rice, and miso soup. I had pineapple juice, mom chose iced tea.
----------
I have finished reading "Beyond Disruption" by Jean-Marie Dru. I continued taking exerpts from it. Very interesting book!
----------
I discovered another word game, this time from Yahoo. It's called "Bookworm". It entails forming words, the longer the better and you must use the colored letters before they hit bottom. Exciting!
----------
I really believe in exercising the mind. While waiting in the hospital, I solved Sudoku puzzles. Fun!
----------
I am inviting friends to another Bibliarasal session. Even if there's only one participant other than me, that would be good enough.
I just loooove the "new" Yahoo 7 mail. It's very user-friendly and the various themes are so beautiful, I keep changing it each day.
A guy who met me 35 years ago emailed and mentioned facts like where I live, our neighbor's name, my brother was with ROTC, etc. We got to talk over the phone and he is coming over next week. Nice to have a new friend (as if I haven't a lot of friends already!). Well, one more won't do any harm.
My chatmate and I got into an argument yesterday about "religion". We didn't see eye to eye on a number of things. Until I just said something like "I don't agree with you but I still love you"...I had to clarify that I love him as a friend (he is married he he).
I opened my gmail inbox after months of not doing so. I was pleasantly surprised when someone said that she read my 2nd book ("Things I Learned Before I Was Born"). She enjoyed it. What do you know, a fan! Makes me want to write another book.
The keynote speech I posted in writersdigest got noticed. Two people commented saying "great message" and "yes, excellent message". Gave me a nice feeling.
Other folks have been reading this blog without my knowing it and they have emailed to me. Thanks!
My friend came over this afternoon. I had my first Bibliyarasal (Bible, study, and prayer). There were just the two of us. I invited 7 other people but all declined. My fault because I waited till the last minute to contact them (only yesterday and today). I will conduct the next one this coming Saturday and invite participants well in advance.
My friend brought fruits (papaya and pineapple). How kind of her!
Mom went to Greenhills and joined my aunt and uncle. They bought Christmas gifts (necklaces) for their two daughters. They ate at a Chinese restaurant and mom brought home the leftover food. She also bought monggo siopao, chicharon, and fresh lumpia. Yey and yummy!
A client-friend informed me that one of our projects is sure to be approved. Great!
I subscribe to WritersDigest. Every week or so, they have what is called a "writing prompt". The latest one goes:
You received a call from your alma mater and they want you to be the keynote speaker at graduation. Write a speech that inspires the future generation to work toward their dreams. Post your response (500 words or fewer) in the comments here:
Writing Prompt: Your Keynote Speech
I was in a writing mood so I came up with the following:
Good day to you all!
It is a great privilege to be invited today as your keynote speaker.It is also an awesome responsibility.
I do not wish to bore you so I promise to make this speech brief but big on advice.
So, what words of wisdom do I impart to you, dear graduates?
Well, let that word be our acronym for easy recall – WISDOM!
W stands for work hard, play hard.Most who are fresh from college swear to sweat it out early in their career.That’s good! But don’t forget to play, party and put your foot up to rest.You must avoid burning out before your fire is extinguished.
I means I shall do my best without being a perfectionist.Strive for excellence, not perfection. Otherwise, you might end up in a mental institution.I should know.Been there, done that.
S is share yourself to the world.It needs your skills, talents, drive, ideas, and yes, your presence.Just being around should be seen as your gift to all that you meet – at work, in social circles, and most especially, to your family.
D of course means dream on.This place would not have seen much progress were it not for dreamers, dreamers like you and me. Reach for whatever that dream is, so long as it is not detrimental to others or harmful to yourself.
O – open yourself to opportunities that come your way.Better still, actively seek those doors of opportunities and don’t just stand there! Boldly open them! For opportunities are not for the weak of heart but for the strong of will.
M is for “mantra”.If you haven’t one already, I suggest you adopt mine. My personal mantra all these years is “Everyday in every way, I am getting better and better!” Yes, the desire to improve on a daily basis starts with the mind.Let this thought be ingrained in your brain not only because it rhymes, but also because it works!
So there you are, W – work hard, play hard. I – I shall do my best without being a perfectionist.S – share yourself to the world.D – dream on. O – open yourself to opportunities.M – mantra, “Everyday in every way, I am getting better and better”.
Let me end with a story.
Once upon a time, there was a young, beautiful, talented and intelligent woman who graduated from this very university.Because she finished with honors, magna cum laude, she was able to work for the best and biggest companies in the country.But like everybody, she experienced trials and tribulations – a failed marriage and illnesses such as diabetes, osteoporosis, bi-polar mood disorder, and lately, multiple myeloma or cancer of the bone marrow.Hence, she has been in and out of hospitals.Armed with the very words I shared with you today, she has survived and continues to survive.
Ladies and gentlemen, you are looking at that survivor.
Welcome to the world! Thank you!
-----
What do you think? [Reminds me, a niece told us that one of her dreams is to deliver the keynote speech to graduating students. I may never be invited to be such a speaker but I can pretend and write about it, can't I?]
Hi I'm Nimia. Just turned 50. Single again. Not desperately seeking (but secretly longing). Notorious for my corny jokes. My mission in life is to be a joyful instrument of God's love and a loving instrument of God's joy through TAWASSS - teaching, appreciating, writing, affirming, speaking and serving with a smile.
