faith, hope and love

What's Up?

2007-04-23T18:48:00.000-05:00

So what happened in the last three months? I guess you could say I've been busy. Busy growing a baby in my belly, that is! Other than that, I haven't been really productive. Yes, I blame pregnancy for that. Before I got pregnant, I had all these projects lined up. Clean the home office, do an inventory of my fridge and pantry, organize the closet and clothes drawer, paint the bed sidetables, garden, read more books, update my blog. My goal was to organize my life in preparation for a baby. But he/she came before I reached that goal. I am not complaining, though. I am happy to be expecting.

I am on my 17th week and I am slowly getting my energy back. There are still times when I find myself falling asleep on the sofa when I intend to read my baby and pregnancy books.At work, I spend half of my break taking a nap. And thanks to my growing appetite, my waist and tummy are expanding. I no longer fit my pre-pregrancy jeans. Although I still have a few shirts that fit me, I can't wear all of my summer dresses and skirts, anymore. I almost cried yesterday when I couldn't fit into my kimono/empire dress that is designed to hide a not-so-flat tummy, anymore. My chest is growing, that I am happy about. But will I ever fit into my old clothes again?

On my next doctor's appointment I'll have an ultrasound and hopefully find out the gender of the baby. I can't wait for this. So tune in for the next update. Hopefully, I'll be able to post one before the baby comes. :)

What I Want

2007-01-11T17:21:00.000-06:00

The iPhone. Coming out in June. Just in time for my birthday. :)

Jolt!

2006-12-01T12:17:00.000-06:00

I rarely drink coffee(maybe once or twice a year at the most) but I am a tea drinker, and I do drink caffeinated soda sometimes. When Vince and I came back from Hawaii, we brought some Kona coffee to give to our friends and family. This morning I tried the chocolate macadamia coffee. It smelled so good. I may have made it too strong because when I tried it, it tasted bitter. But I drank it anyway. Now I am shaking! Oh dear, I am having palpitations! No more coffee for me.

Back from Paradise

2006-11-21T14:07:00.000-06:00

Vince and I are back from our honeymoon in Maui. We had a wonderful time, going from one adventure to the next. I will post pictures on my Flickr site. Read Vince's recap of our escapades at GongWing Chronicles.

2006-11-05T22:56:00.000-06:00

Right now, I am missing my long hair.

Johari's Window

2006-09-29T22:20:00.000-05:00

This is a revelation ;) 60% of my friends thinks I am caring. Hmmmm, why only 60%??? Ok, I, myself, don't consider caring as one of my traits. Maybe people see me as one because I am a nurse. And, I never thought of myself as friendly. Being shy, I don't often start a conversation with someone I don't know. And me?? Organized? I'll tell you about my attempts in organization some day. Maybe after I find my eyeglasses.
Thanks to my friends who made me see other facets of me.
Arena
(known to self and others)
reflective, sentimental
Blind Spot
(known only to others)
adaptable, calm, caring, clever, friendly, giving, happy, helpful, idealistic, intelligent, kind, loving, organised, quiet, sensible, trustworthy
Façade
(known only to self)
searching, self-conscious, shy, sympathetic
Unknown
(known to nobody)
able, accepting, bold, brave, cheerful, complex, confident, dependable, dignified, energetic, extroverted, independent, ingenious, introverted, knowledgeable, logical, mature, modest, nervous, observant, patient, powerful, proud, relaxed, religious, responsive, self-assertive, silly, spontaneous, tense, warm, wise, witty
Dominant Traits
60% of people think that shellybeeens is caring
60% of people think that shellybeeens is friendly
60% of people think that shellybeeens is organised
All Percentages
able (0%) accepting (0%) adaptable (20%) bold (0%) brave (0%) calm (20%) caring (60%) cheerful (0%) clever (20%) complex (0%) confident (0%) dependable (0%) dignified (0%) energetic (0%) extroverted (0%) friendly (60%) giving (40%) happy (20%) helpful (40%) idealistic (20%) independent (0%) ingenious (0%) intelligent (20%) introverted (0%) kind (20%) knowledgeable (0%) logical (0%) loving (20%) mature (0%) modest (0%) nervous (0%) observant (0%) organised (60%) patient (0%) powerful (0%) proud (0%) quiet (40%) reflective (20%) relaxed (0%) religious (0%) responsive (0%) searching (0%) self-assertive (0%) self-conscious (0%) sensible (20%) sentimental (20%) shy (0%) silly (0%) spontaneous (0%) sympathetic (0%) tense (0%) trustworthy (40%) warm (0%) wise (0%) witty (0%)
Created by the Interactive Johari Window on 30.9.2006, using data from 5 respondents.
You can make your own Johari Window, or view'>http://kevan.org/johari?view=shellybeeens">view shellybeeens's full data.

Rude Telemarketers

2006-08-28T09:21:00.000-05:00

I usually screen calls because eventhough I signed up for no call list, I still get calls from those companies with which I do business, such as the phone, insurance, car,etc. This morning, I was expecting a call from my aunt in California. Her phone number is set for private that whenever she calls, my caller ID says out of area. When the phone rang and the caller ID said "out of area" I answered it thinking it was my aunt. The woman on the other line said, "I am calling to notify you that your car warranty will soon expire...." Great! I thought, this would take time. So I politely interrupted her and said that I was sorry because I didn't have time. And what did she say? She snapped at me saying, "Well don't answer your phone if you don't have the time." Then hung up on me. Gee, I wonder how she got into that business with that kind of attitude. First of all, she didn't identify herself and which company she was working for, and second she was rude. Well, good luck to her, there are more people who I'm sure don't have the time to talk to her and don't appreciate having their mornings disrupted. I know it's a source of income for some people, but telemarketing really annoys me, especially when the telemarketer is rude like the one I encountered a few minutes ago.

2006-08-24T16:56:00.000-05:00

I don't like this girl. But the shoes. I love the shoes. Who made them? I want those shoes. Noooo, I must have those shoes!!!

(Pic from GoFugYourself)

***They look like Louboutins. Sigh....

Train Our Love

2006-08-20T12:31:00.000-05:00

Train our love
that it may grow
slowly...deeply...steadily;
till our hearts will overflow
unrestrained and readily.

Discipline it too,
dear God;
strength of steel
throughout the whole.
Teach us patience,
thoughtfulness,
tenderness and
self-control.

Deepen it
throughout the years,
age and mellow it
until,
time that finds us
old without,
within,
will find us
lovers still.

--by Ruth Bell Graham

Oceanaire in Indianapolis

2006-08-07T16:56:00.000-05:00

To celebrate our one week of being married(hehehe, yes, that was a milestone,) Vince took me to Oceanaire. We've been wanting to try this restaurant since we heard Virgil and Bob, our friends, raved about the crabcake. We were in San Diego the whole week of Indy Restaurant Week, so we were only able to catch the last night. To try what restaurant week menu had to offer, I chose the East Meets West Oysters, Alaskan Wild King Salmon, and Strawberry shortcake for dessert. Vince chose something from the regular menu, I don't remember what, and Vince doesn't either... must not be so good that we both forgot about it. Anyway, I enjoyed the dinner, not just because of the food, but also because it was our first "date" as a married couple. I hope we don't forget or neglect to have dates like this even after we have kids.

Bummed

2006-08-04T12:48:00.000-05:00

I am distraught and distressed. Vince and I didn't have a formal picture with my brother and my sister-in-law. We gave them a nice picture frame as thank you gift, engraved with our names, thinking that we will give them a nice picture of us all together. Looks like that was one of the pictures that were missed. It's partly my fault. Our photographers asked us for must-take list and I remember putting, S___ family instead of specifying Arnold and Loren. They put all my families together in one portrait, when I wanted it to be separate for each of my cousins' and aunts' families. During the wedding, I was so excited and nervous that I forgot and didn't realize until Vince and I were viewing the images. It may be just one picture, but it means a lot to me to have a picture of us. It's like not having pictures taken with my parents, because my brother and my sister-in-law are like my parents. They shouldered as much burden as my parents would have had if my parents were alive. There's nothing we can do, now. But I wish I could turn back the time.

On Getting Married

2006-07-27T13:30:00.000-05:00

***Picture taken by Heather from
www.shadowcatcherimagery.com

The first time I thought of Vince as husband-material was when I was at a nursing home and saw an old couple holding hands, sitting on a couch with their walkers in front of them. My friendship/relationship with Vince was at its infancy, then. Him being in New Jersey and me in San Diego, I didn't think much of how long we're going to last or how far we're going with our friendship. But seeing that old couple, holding hands even when their frail bodies fail them, I couldn't help thinking of Vince and me down the road... Holding hands and still in love.

So six years and months later, on July 15, 2006, Vince and I vowed to love each other through sickness and health, to be each other's strength and inspiration in joys and sorrow, and to hold hands as we grow old. Our wedding day was not a perfect day, as life is not always going to be perfect. The day didn't come without any mishaps. There were funny ones, and un-funny ones. Here are the highlights (and low):

1. My hair and make-up were not the same as when I had my trial, and I didn't like the way I looked. The hairstylist had to re-do my hair because she didn't do it the way I asked her to do, which made me panic because I didn't want to be late.

2. My face was too shiny from the make-up. I hope our talented photographers and videographers can do something so that I don't look like I have spotlight shining on my face.

3. The bridal party bus that brought Vince and the rest of the wedding party to church was late. And even though we planned for things like this, the ceremony still started late.

4. My dress got a stain from the limo's steps, before the ceremony started. I wouldn't have cared if it was after the ceremony.

5. The church wedding coordinator proudly told me she would provide the lighters for the candle. I learned after watching my cousin's video that she provided barbecue lighters. Ai-yai-yai!! My mother-in-law and sister-in-law who lighted each side of our unity candles said they looked like they were carrying guns. My candle sponsor, Lea, cleverly hid the lighter underneath her shawl. I was mad, but couldn't help laughing at the sight of these elegantly-dressed ladies carrying gun lighters.

But of course, there were sweet moments to cherish:

1. I love the fact that Vince's niece Nicole and nephew, Bryan, played for the ceremony. First, we didn't have to spend for ceremony musicians and most importantly, they really made our ceremony even more special. I cried as I walked down the aisle with my brother, hearing Nicole play a different version of what I am used to of Canon in D. It reminded me how blessed I was, and that although my mom and dad were not there, they would surely be happy for me.

Nicole also composed a song that she and her brother played during the lighting of the Unity Candle. I also thought it was hilarious hearing Bryan play Star Wars in his violin for the recessional... a perfect salute to his geek uncle.

2. My cousins, nieces and friends looked gorgeous in their red dresses.

3. Vince and I had fun dancing. We are so glad that we took dance lessons. We only learned two step-variations of waltz because we started lessons a bit late, but it was cool that we chose an almost unknown music (except to Harry Potter fans) for our first dance.

4. Our family and friends who came from near and far to share and witness the most important event in our life.

5. My brother danced! I never saw him dance before this. And he looked like he had fun.

6. The food was delicious, as what our guests said. Vince and I were so busy that the food was already cold when we got to it.

7. Vince and I spending the rest of the night on the balcony of our suite, eating chocolates and sipping bottled water(we are non-drinkers, so the champagne given by the hotel was left unopened) Sitting on the balcony chairs, we watched the beautiful San Diego skyline and read aloud wedding cards that were given to us.

To end my story, I want to say that our wedding day was filled with emotions, happiness and excitement. I don't want to say that it's the happiest day of my life, because I don't want to think that it's all going downhill from here. In fact, as Robert Browning said, "Grow old along with me, the best is yet to be, " I believe that there will be happier and memorable moments ahead of us.

***Our photographers Heather and Skip( of Shadowcatcher Imagery, our most favorite vendors along with Norma, our videographer from NR3 Videos) told our wedding story more beautifully than I probably could. Here is the link: http://shadowcatcherimagery.blogspot.com/2006/07/in-elegant-fairytale-like-ceremony.html

A week Before the Big Day

2006-07-08T09:34:00.000-05:00

****Since I arrived to San Diego a week ago, I have been busy running around trying to finish wedding details. I need to finish off the seating arrangements, make the out-of-town bags, the ceremony schedule and more. The programs that are yet to be finished are sitting in a basket. My lovely nieces, who are my bridesmaids, have been helping me all along. Aileen and Annette were dutiful workers who never complained of what I asked them to do. Yesterday, we finished boxing the favors in an hour and a half. They must have thought, "Auntie has gone bridezilla!", when I asked them to make sure the ribbons are in the middle of the boxes. Later on, I let go of my perfectionist nature. Inside, I really want to redo all those boxes, which ribbons are not perfectly applied. But at this point, I have no energy nor time to do that. Who is going to notice? (maybe my friends Notch and Lea will, but they are so OC they will notice every minute detail, anyway.) Besides, our wedding is not about the favors nor the programs. In a week, I am going to marry my bestfriend for almost six years. And as long as I am married to Vince at the end of the day, nothing else matters.

****Maybe it's because I haven't been sleeping long enough, but I haven't had any wedding nightmares. They say brides get wedding nightmares when the wedding comes close. My dear friend, Ate B, who is almost like my mother, told me that she's had a dream about my wedding. I don't remember the details of the dream. I find it funny that she had to have the dreams for me.

****I can't wait for Vince to be here. His flight arrives tonight at 6pm. My brother will pick him up at the airport because tonight is my wedding shower. The shower is supposed to be just a bridal shower, but it just might end up being a joint shower. We'll see.

Judy's Wedding

2006-06-13T22:59:00.000-05:00

Judy's Wedding
Originally uploaded by shellybeeens.

Last Saturday, Vince and I, along with our friends, Barb, Kevin and Notch drove down to Kentucky for Judy's (a friend from Vince's residency program) wedding to Nate. The wedding forecast stated a 30% chance of rain. While we were in Indy, the sky was threatening to pour, but when we got to Henderson, Kentucky, it began to clear. Judy and Nate had a traditional Filipino-Catholic church wedding with the veil, cord, and candle ceremony. The bride wore an elegant mermaid cut gown while the groom wore a barong(the traditional formal Filipino attire for men.) A reception was held immediately after the ceremony at Judy's parents' home. The garden overlooking a lake was just the perfect backdrop. The patio was turned into a dance floor. The wedding was low-key and simple yet fun. Judy seemed very happy, and I wish her and Nate a marriage full of blessings and love.

Dress, Dates, and Dance Lessons

2006-06-06T20:35:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I went to Chicago for what I thought was my last fitting for my dress. It turned out that there are more alterations to be made.Last time we had a fitting, the dress was too tight. The dress is now a little too loose on the waist that I have to keep on pulling the dress up so it will stay where it's supposed to stay and not show my non-existent cleavage. Sula, the seamstress, exclaimed, "Are you not eating anymore?" But I know this is not because I lost weight or by some miraculous intervention, my "bilbil" (tummy fat.) I think it's because she let the dress out too much. I forgot to take pictures.

Cielo, one of my bridesmaids, was too kind to go with me even after she worked the night before. It's been a while since I spent time hanging out with her. After the fitting, we went to Chinatown for some dimsum. I haven't had dimsum since my trip from San Francisco. We enjoyed talking, gossiping and catching up with each other while eating. I miss having girlfriends nearby.

*****

Vince and I haven't really gone out on dates lately. Trying to prepare for the wedding and working are keeping us busy these days. It sometimes makes me feel like we're becoming an "old couple" even before we get married. I just miss hanging out and spending time with him. Imagine my surprise when Vince called me this afternoon.

Vince: Are you working tomorrow?

Shelly: Yes, why?

Vince: Oh, I supposed you don't want to watch a movie, then. Huh? (I usually don't like going out the night before my workdays.)

Shelly: Are you asking me out on a date? What movie?

Vince: Uh, yes, I guess you could call it that. X-Men

Shelly: How romantic. (Sarcastically, yet inside it made my heart went a fluttler. Yay, we're not an "old couple" yet.)

So this evening we went to the theater, but to our disappointment the 7:45 show was cancelled. The next showing was 9:30pm which was too late for me. Well, next time.

*****

Because both Vince and I have four left feet, he signed us up for dance lessons to prepare for our first dance. He's more excited than I am about this. He even wants us to continue taking ballroom dance lessons even after the wedding. Now, we'll see about that.

Wedding Updates... Blah.. blah... blah..blah

2006-05-30T11:14:00.000-05:00

Originally uploaded by shellybeeens.

This post is dedicated to one of my best and oldest(long-time) friends, Gretel. Being miles away, I wanted to keep my friends back home in the Philippines current with what was going on with my life, so I started this blog. But since I began chatting with them through IM's, I didn't feel as motivated to keep this blog updated. But during one of our IM conversations, Gretel had clamored about the frequency of my blog updates, eventhough we chat almost everyday. So since, she is one of the reasons that I keep a blog, here it is, Gret.

Last March, (I know, I know... That was two months ago.) Vince and I went back to San Diego to meet with our wedding vendors for the first time. Since we are planning our wedding from Indy, we contracted most of our vendors through email and phone calls.

Vince was in charge for the most part of picking the videographers and photographers since he has more artistic side than I do. He researched all the photographers and videographers whose works he liked and whose fees would fit into our budget , then I just approved which one of those choices I liked. I couldn't be happier with his choices.

The afternoon we arrived, we went to Norma and John's residence/office to talk with them about our wedding videos. This young and energetic husband and wife team spent almost two hours talking to us about our plans and vision of the video. Their enthusiasm made me more excited about the wedding.

The next morning, I had a makeup trial session with Becca. She used airbrush and MAC cosmetics. I usually look uglier with make-up on. But I liked the way my make-up looked. However Becca won't be able to do my make-up on my wedding day at the time that I want because she has another wedding to take care of that afternoon. I didn't hire her because I didn't want her to be rushed and end up not doing the best job she could for both weddings.

Make-up Trial Session with Becca:

In the afternoon, Vince and I met with our photographers, Heather and Skip, another husband and wife team, at the Cabrillo National Monument for our Engagement Photo Session. I must say that Heather and Skip rock! Heather was wearing a pair of cool jeans and boots that I so covet, albeit not my usual style. I wish I took pictures. But that moment, she was the photographer and I the subject. Anyway, we planned to have our photo session at sunset but was cut off by the park ranger who made us leave at 5pm, way before sunset. We managed to catch the sun setting at the nearby Ocean Beach. Thank God for Heather, who thought of the place. They did a great job with the pictures. I can't post them here, because I can't download them and I look terrible in most of them. I am so not photogenic. It's not Heather and Skip's fault. They are photographers, not magicians. I just hope that they are good in retouching and manipulating images. :)

The following day, Vince and I went to visit his brother Quinn who also lives in San Diego. We had lunch and then went back to the Cabrillo National Monument for sight seeing. Vince didn't have enough of it and wanted to show it to Quinn as well. Quinn ended up taking pictures of us. Vince and I liked the pictures because we looked more natural and comfortable.

The following day we had a cake tasting that didn't go very well. We both didn't like the cake provided for us by the catering manager. We looked for other bakers and found one that we liked. When we told the caterer, she said she would ask the hotel's chef to make the cake instead so we don't have to go to an outside baker. My friend who tried the cake said it was good.

We also found and talked to a florist about our floral details. Up to now, we haven't signed a contract with her because I wanted some things revised. Flowers are not very big in our plans, but we do want our wedding to look nice.

On my last day, I had another make-up trial session. This time with Hawiza. She didn't use airbrush, but the regular make-up technique using Smashbox products. I liked the make-up but she made me wear false eyelashes that I am not used to wearing. My sister-in-law thought I looked better with them. Excuse the cheesiness, but here I am having my own photo session in my bathroom back in San Diego:

Two weeks ago, I went to San Francisco to fit the cheong-sam that I am going to wear for the reception. Vince couldn't come with me because that same weekend, he was taking the oral part of his board exam. I was a little apprehensive going to my future in-laws by myself. Vince's family is great, but being from a different culture, I don't feel as comfortable. Vince's mom picked me up from the airport and we went straight to the tailor to pick up my dress. The tailor needed to make some minor adjustments so we went to lunch while waiting.

We also looked for the dolls I want to use for the wedding table. When we got engaged, Vince's mom gave me these dolls.

I thought they were so cute and I wanted to have their costumes for the wedding. Of course Vince thought it was absurd, so I thought of using the dolls for the wedding cake table. I know they'll look cheesy on the table, but they are so cute. Vince didn't want to use the exact dolls, and wanted to buy new ones for the wedding. So, his mom and I scoured Chinatown stores looking for them. We didn't find any, but Vince's mom found some good Chinese music to listen for relaxation.

I also got the chance to visit with Vince's brother and sister and their families. I enjoyed hanging out with Wei and Stevie. I am always amazed at Stevie's creativity and imagination at such a young age. He turned their kitchen counter wall into a space ship with drawings of controls and windows looking through stars and galaxies. He made maps of pretend hidden treasures. He even had a calling card of himself as a cartographer. I wish I took pictures.

I also had dinner with Gah(Vince's sister) and her family. We spent the afternoon at the mall looking for luggage for their July trip. When we got back to their place, Nicole (Vince's niece) played the piece that she composed for our wedding. I was really touched and blown away. We also watched the video of her playing the piece on the piano, her brother Bryan playing the violin, and a friend on cello. She wanted to call the piece simply "Love" but Gah suggested "Love Forever" sounded more optimistic. Nicole will play the piano during our wedding ceremony.

I really enjoyed that weekend with my future-in-laws. Vince's mom made me comfortable. She talked a lot, which I enjoyed because I don't talk that much. I'd rather be the listener during conversations. She's an intelligent outspoken woman. I always learn something from her. Vince's dad on the other hand is mostly quiet, but he is a great cook. I wish Vince learned that from him. Vince's brother and sister and their families were such a joy to be with. It made me wish that we live close-by.

We have 47 days to go before the wedding. The invitations were sent. Haven't received any RSVP's yet.

Next Monday will be my final fitting for my dress. The salon will ship the dress to my brother's address at least two weeks before the wedding.

I have a million tasks to do aside from the wedding. My hospital is switching to a different computer program so I have to take classes for it. I have to renew my ACLS this week, and I haven't studied yet.

I can't wait for the wedding to be over. Not just so I can spend the rest of my life with Vince, but also to reclaim my old way of life in which wedding plans are not part of. Planning your own wedding makes you realize what love can do. Yes, it can do miraculous things... It can move mountain, it can cross the seas. It can make one cheesy. (See pictures above) And drive people insane. Jusk ask Vince.

What to Wear?

2006-03-17T20:36:00.000-06:00

I have a question to all my fashion forward friends. You know who you are ;) What do I wear to an engagement photo session at the beach? I want Vince and I to coordinate but not too matchy-matchy. What do you think of linen blouse and flowy skirt in earthy colors? And for Vince, a cargo shirt in olive and khaki pants? Are these appropriate? Or should we stick to jeans and tops. Our photographer told us to wear light colors. I never thought I'd worry about these things. (Rolling my eyes to myself.)

The Way to Vince's Heart

2006-03-17T19:17:00.000-06:00

I like cooking for Vince. He always eats what I prepare, not once criticizing my cooking skills or lack thereof. He always gets seconds. I can gauge how delicious the dish I prepared, by watching him get a third serving. When it's especially delicious, he would say "yummy" like a little kid after finishing his plate. And the best thing about cooking for him is that when I cook Filipino food, he can't tell how the dish is supposed to taste. He doesn't complain when something is too salty or too sweet. In fact, I am more critical of my own cooking. When I made my pork/chicken adobo a little bit salty, I just blame the recipe and say, "oh I just followed what it said. Just add more rice, so it won't taste as salty." When my sinigang got a tad too sour, I just say, "that's how I like it; some people like it less sour." So last night, when I cooked afritada for the first time, I told him it wasn't that good because it was my first time to cook the dish. He didn't say anything, but he helped himself to another serving.

Yes, This Blog Still Exists!

2006-03-12T23:20:00.000-06:00

I know this blog has been neglected. Although there were a few things that kept me occupied this past two months, such as taking classes to keep current with my certifications for work, there's really no excuse other than I haven't feel like blogging lately. Or maybe it's because there's not much interesting news to tell or events to share. I hate to be that person who can only think and talk about her wedding plans. This is not a wedding blog, after all. But you will all have to bear with me for four more months because, unfortunately, wedding plans are all that consume me these days. You won't believe the insane amount of time I spend reading wedding blogs, devouring wedding magazines, and surfing the internet looking for wedding ideas and researching vendors. Seriously, this has got to stop.

My wedding dress came in last month. I went to Chicago to try it on. I didn't feel very excited about the dress when I wore it. In fact, I wish I had picked something different. Me and my ever-changing mind. The first fitting for alteration is not scheduled until April 10th. I need to start exercising because the dress is a little tight on my mid-area. I guess if I learn how to stop breathing for about 9-10 hours or not sit down or move, I'll be able to squeeze in. I don't think I gained weight, I believe the dress wasn't measured right. (yeah, i'm in denial) Oh well, I can always use Spanx.

To add drama to my wedding woes, my MOH who lives in cali won't be able to go with me to LA when we go BM dress shopping next week. She has to go to work and can't find anyone to switch with. I don't know why I am upset since this is not her fault. I know that she has her own life and that the world does not revolve around me and my wedding plans. But I will only be in California for a week, and V and I have a number of other meetings with our wedding vendors which I can't move just to accommodate her schedule. Waaaaaa... am I being a total bridezilla here???

Our wedding invitations also came in last month. Vince's dad sent them from SF. They are beautiful and traditionally "Chinese." Not something I would pick in a heartbeat. But with the price we paid for them, who could resist? Besides, invitations are not the top of our priorities.

We're also able to book a DJ. We'll meet with him personally when we get back home next week. He sounds really young, hip and cool. I am hoping he's not too cool for a geeky couple like us.

We also made appointments with the caterer and cake shop for some tastings. Yummy!!!

Other things to take care of: hair and make-up, florist, transportation.

There's my update. Sorry for boring you with my wedding plans.

2006-01-22T10:57:00.000-06:00

Last weekend, Vince and I were in Chicago for his monthly haircut. (Yes, he's that crazy about his hairstylist.) We wanted to spend time in our old neighborhood and relive our Chicago days for the weekend. We had plans of walking to the nearby mall and bookstore, eat at our favorite crepe cafe in the neighborhood and pretend we're still locals. . So we decided to stay at the Inn of Lincoln Park which was two blocks from where we used to live. The room we were given was tiny but that didn't matter to me because all I wanted was a place to sleep and shower. The room itself was clean but the whole building and the hallways smelled musty. There were noise problems, too, since this small inn was nestled on Diversey Parkway amidst the hustle and bustle of the Lincoln Park neighborhood.

Our first day, after Vince got his haircut, we checked in, parked the car and left our luggages in our room. Then we went out to walk in the old neighborhood. I was able to get my eyebrows waxed at this asian salon on Broadway and Diversey that I used to frequent. I love how the girls here do my eyebrows, not too skinny, but just enough to make them look clean and polished. Vince went to Borders bookstore while I was at the salon. I met with him after. We stayed at the bookstore reading until we both got tired and hungry. For dinner, we went to Chinatown to get our favorite noodle soup from Seven Treasures.

The next day, we woke up early to go to this Turkish crepe place. I love the ambiance in this tiny breakfast place. And their crepes are light and yummy. The mint tea I ordered kept me warm. During summer days, I like to order their green tea ice-cream, as well. After breakfast, we headed back to Indianapolis. Our weekend of pretending to be local Chicago residents was over.

Bridezilla Strikes Again

2006-01-06T11:28:00.000-06:00

Although Vince may think otherwise, I believe that I am not exactly a bridezilla. I just like to call myself that from time to time, because I admit I do have some moments. But I am probably more the opposite because I procrastinate too much. But now that the holidays are over, I no longer have any excuse to procrastinate on my wedding preparations.

**The other day I finally got started on doing my save the date cards, and they will soon be ready for mailing once I finish printing the addresses on the envelopes. I am not computer savvy so this process took me longer than I wanted. I ordered magnets from vistaprint.com which is not a wedding website but a business website so the magnets cost me a lot less than if I had ordered them at a wedding site. The magnets cost me only about $0.27. They are not great magnets; they won't be able to hold a piece of paper, but they're just 'reminder' magnets. If it were up to Vince we'd have a plain postcard or none at all. Maybe our guests won't even care for the magnets. But I guess I wanted to take a shot in creativity. Anyway, I attached the magnets to notecards, printed our wedding website info on vellum paper that I ordered from an online paper factory at a very cheap price. I embossed our names and date on the flap of the envelopes. Voila, save the date cards for less than $0.80 each. Before I decided to make my own, I went to one of the invitations/stationery store to ask how much one costs. The very simple one that I liked was about $3.00/piece. So, being cheap that I am, I decided to do it on my own. Vince seemed to like the finished product.

**Last night, I was able to drag Vince to Bed, Bath and Beyond to register. We should really have sat down first and think about what we really need and want. It took us 2 hours to register for 20 items. It was mostly my fault because I couldn't decide on what I wanted. We really need a nice set of pots and pans because the ones we have are hand-me-downs. I didn't really care much for cooking utensils when I got my own place because up until that time, I never really cooked. When I moved to Chicago, my sister-in-law gave me her old set which worked fine for me. But I am now taking more interest in learning how to cook and bake. However, I still don't know what kind of pots and pans are good. I guess I could ask my sister-in-law who is a great cook but she swears by those surgical steel cooking utensils that cost thousands for a set. Uhmm, I don't think I am ready for those. So Vince and I were at the cooking section, and we were going back and forth whether to get the Emeril pots or the ones advertised by Rachel Ray. ( I like her, so I was more inclined on getting those pots) But we finally decided on Calphalon. Vince was getting tired, and I understand because he would rather be studying for his oral board than to decide on pots. And he's right, half of these stuff we register for, we won't probably get anyway. He became more enthusiastic when we got to picking table settings and bed linens. The store was ready to close so we stopped when we got to the linen section. Oh well.

**Yesterday, one of my bridesmaids called me to tell me that she can't be a bridesmaid anymore. She's due on the 22nd of July, that is if the baby comes on time. She only found out about two weeks ago. She's irregular so she didn't have any inkling that she could be pregnant. Of course I am happy for her, but now I have only two bridesmaids left. That should be ok since I really wanted a small wedding party but Vince has 4 attendants, and I didn't want the party to look uneven. (I am obsessive, that way) I don't know if I will ask another friend or just leave it as that. One of the groomsmen won't have a girl to walk with but I'd feel bad to ask another friend to take over when I didn't ask her in the first place. I don't want her to think she's second choice. Oh well.

** I received the veil and headpiece that I got made from the Philippines. Vince and my friends K and N went to the Philippines to take care of their own wedding preps. N got the veil specially made from a designer. The beadings were great, but the veil was not made exactly as I liked. It's not N nor the designer's fault though, because the pictures and instructions I gave were probably not clear enough. I am not freaking out about it, because it can probably be fixed if I could only find a seamstress to stitch the edges the way I like. Oh well.

Remembering

2006-01-03T20:03:00.000-06:00

Today's my dad's birthday. It's been 9 years since he passed away. 11 since mom did.Maybe time has healed my grief. I don't think of them as often as I used to. Sometimes I worry that I will forget details about them. What am I going to tell my future children? Will I remember to tell them that I loved watching Jeopardy with dad? That I always looked forward to his coming home from work? That I got my wide forehead from him? That he loved to read? That he was a hardworking man? That he was a patient man and slow to anger, but that you'd never want to see him angry? Will I remember my mom's small hands that used to braid my hair? Will I remember how she helped me with my homework even if she didn't understand it herself? Will I remember that she taught me how to pray and to have faith? Will I be able to pass on what she taught me? As much as it hurts sometimes, I'd rather think of them so I can remember the way they laughed or spoke. Their smell. Their hair. Any detail. So I may remember.

Dreamblog

2006-01-02T00:14:00.000-06:00

Is this a sign that I've been reading too many blogs?

The other night I had the funniest dream. Vince took me out to a show. It was supposed to be a surprise for me. (I don't usually like surprises.) In my dream, I thought it was a musical but it turned out to be one of those Filipino variety/singing/dancing shows. The show was celebrating the birthday of one of the brightest stars in Philippine showbusiness. I was cheerfully clapping in my seat when Tin(the birthday celebrant) appeared on the stage and started singing. I proudly told Vince that Tin and I knew each other. I admired her cotton candy pink ballgown. :) Then, just like in That's Entertainment, her friends- who are also supposed to be big stars- started coming out of the backstage and began singing with her. Marie and Paz came out. Now in real life, I find these two ladies very stylish. But in my dream Marie was wearing ripped jeans and tie-dyed t-shirt while Paz was in sweat pants. No offense to those who like ripped jeans, tie-dyed shirts and sweat pants. (I myself live in jeans and sweatpants on days when I don't work) but Tin was in a gown, and it seemed inappropriate to wear these when the guest of honor is wearing a ballgown. But still in my dream, I was dying to get their outfits. Hehehe....I was starstruck!!!.

Then my dream shifted to my high school reunion. In real life, my former classmates here in the US are planning a mini reunion in March in Vegas; I won't be able to go because I will be going to San Diego that month. In December, the official reunion will be held in the Philippines which I won't be able to attend again because I plan on going there in January when my friend N gets married. So back to the dream, I was sipping martini(I don't drink) at the bar with Star and Chey(one of my former classmates in real life) while we updated one another on our lives. Hehehe, Star was my classmate? Then Tess came over to take pictures of us. And I told Tess, "Aren't you from the other school?"

Then back again to the That's Entertainment-like show, where this time, Len was hosting and she was introducing Marj as the winner of some contest for brides. Marj came out in her wedding dress and walked like a beauty queen, waving, smiling widely with tears running down her face.

Then I woke up to the sound of my alarm clock. I've never met these blog friends in person, but their faces were so vivid in my dreams. And Chey my former classmate looked the same as she did in our highschool daysl. It gave me something to smile about during my ten-minute drive to work that morning.

Happy New Year

2005-12-30T17:40:00.000-06:00

It was my mom's superstition or tradition that every new year our house should be immaculately spotless for the new year to bring blessings. I have followed that tradition, cleaning and organizing every nook and cranny of my place, ever since I can remember. Not because I believe this will bring me blessings. I just like the idea of welcoming the New Year with a clean house and a clear mind. This year however, I have failed. My kitchen and bathrooms are clean. The living room and dining area are somewhat clean. But my desk, oh my mom would have a massive heart attack if she could see this now. I was telling Vince about this superstition, and he said Chinese believe in that too. So he said not to worry, because I could go by the Chinese New Year. Hehehe, that means I have until January 28 to clean up my desk.

And since the end of 2005 is near, I welcome the 2006 with a few goals (I listed them in no particular order:

Keep my desk clean and clutter-free.
Get married without losing my sanity.
Read at least one book a month.
Make every effort to find at least one new friend in Indianapolis.
Take more pictures. Maybe take some lessons.
Learn at least one Chinese and/or Filipino dish this year.
Be more organized.

Happy New Year everyone.

Christmas in San Francisco

2005-12-26T20:15:00.000-06:00

I spent my early Christmas in San Francisco with Vince and his family. I had a wonderful time. We were also able to take care of wedding details. We found a seamstress to sew my cheongsam for the wedding, ordered our invitations and our rings.

Before flying back home to Indy, Vince, his mom and I went to visit Poh's (Vince's grandma) grave. I found out that Poh was also born on my birthday. And she liked butterflies too like I do. Vince thought this was a little freaky.

Vince stayed in San Francisco until Christmas. I had to go back to Indy since I had to work on the 22nd, 23rd and 24th. So for the second year in row, I spent Christmas Eve on my own. Sad, but I am glad that Vince got to spend it with his family.

always a flowergirl, never a bridesmaid

2005-12-05T22:08:00.000-06:00

I have a confession to make. It was my dream to be a bridesmaid. And I guess I'll never become one before I get married. I was chosen to be a flowergirl to two of my cousins' weddings, and another relative's wedding that I don't remember much because I was too little. I vaguely remember walking down the aisle and crying at the same time. Hehehe, the bride must have been cursing me at the time.

When one of my bestfriends from the Philippines got married she asked me to be a bridesmaid, but I couldn't make the trip to the Philipines because my mom was sick. Another friend asked me to be her bridesmaid when she got married, again in the Philippines, but I had to decline because I just started a job and couldn't get a vacation at the time. I felt bad that I couldn't support them during their weddings.

So now that I am getting married, I feel a bit disappointed that I was never a bridesmaid before becoming a bride. Funny, how I never dreamt of myself in a white dress, but I've always dreamt of wearing pink chiffon gown (heck, I'll even wear chartreuse satin or fuchsia taffeta even if they clash with my skin just to please the bride.) I imagined these fabulous shower parties the other bridesmaids and I would plan for the bride. Sigh... some dreams are never meant to be.

Random Twenty

2005-11-10T09:08:00.000-06:00

Tess tagged me with the random twenty. It took me a while to think of twenty random facts about me. But here they go:

I first discovered I knew how to read through Funny Komiks(Filipino children comic books). I used to just look at the pictures, but so surprised when I realized I knew what the letters meant.
I'm no green thumb. A bamboo plant died on me before. (Heeh, and bamboo plants are supposed to be hardy and easy to take care of.) I have two bamboo plants and a jade plant who are surviving their third month with me so far.
I love eating at Cheesecake Factory only for the brown bread and the cheesecake.
When I was a kid, I always spent my summer vacations with my cousin Gina.
I love watching the sunsets and sunrises.
One of my favorite places in San Diego is Balboa Park where the San Diego Museum of Art and Botanical Garden are located.
I wanted to have my wedding reception at a museum, but for convenience we chose to hold it at a hotel ballroom.
I'm having a hard time adjusting to my new city right now. I wish I could go back and live in San Diego. (or even back to Chicago, just to get outta here.)
I was 20 when I went out on a date for the first time. The guy took me to a church(it was his birthday, so we dropped by church to say his prayers) and a movie. He left to join the military and we kinda drifted apart.
In highschool, I had this big crush on a guy who liked my bestfriend. I don't think my bestfriend knows about it until now.
I always go to work at least 15 minutes early.
At work, I always have a pen, highlighter, EKG caliper, calculator in my pocket and stethoscope around my neck. If I am missing any of these, I feel lost and disorganized.
I am superstitious when it comes to work, I never, ever say the word "quiet"
I love the styles of Audrey Hepburn and Jackie O.
I love hanging out at the bookstore and reading books/magazines.
My brother is my hero.
My favorite Filipino dishes are sinigang and kare-kare.
I like eating out.
My favorite fruits are mangoes and persimmons.
I have a lot of clutter on my desk.

Whew!!! This took me two days to finish.

A Weekend with Friends

2005-10-26T12:51:00.000-05:00

AT the Apple Store playing with the camera.

Vince and I were in Chicago last weekend to meet with his bestfriend from residency KB and his wife, R. They flew from South Carolina, where they are now based, to tie up some loose ends with the
house they were selling at Oak Park. Vince and I stayed at their empty old house. Most of their belongings are already in SC, the only things left were a futon and some foods left in the fridge. Vince and I brought an air mattress to sleep on. While KB and R used the futon.

Our first night together led us to Emperor's in Chinatown, our favorite chinese restaurant. We ordered our usual tofu/seafood soup, peapod leaves, tomato beef, spicy eggplant, chicken/salted fried rice and a tofu dish. We were all excited to be able to eat our favorite chinese foods again. We talked about wedding plans, having babies, our jobs, our next vacations, etc. KB and R seem to be living a nice life in SC. KB practices in a small group and is very busy. R is not working and doesn't seem to be bored at this time.

Saturday found us having brunch at Sweet Maple(I am not sure of the name) near Rush with Barb and John. I was happy to see Barb again. She's like a mother to Vince and the other PM&R residents at Rush. After brunch, we headed back to Oak Park to see the furniture that Virgil, one of our friends, was selling. Then KB, R, Vince and I drove downtown for some shopping. R and I have the same tastes in clothing that even if we split up, we always end up bringing the same clothes to the fitting room. After shopping, we stopped by Big Bowl to have some appetizers and drinks so we could get our parking validated. We then drove back to Oak Park for dinner with V and B. The dinner was enjoyable especially spiced with converation.

Sunday, our last day, we had brunch at George's in Oak Park (once again.) If you ever go to Chicago, visit Oak Park and try this breakfast place. They have good food and huge servings. The peach crepe was yummy. Their omelletes are delicious, too. After brunch, R had to meet with some of her friends for coffee, so we dropped her off to Caribou Coffee. KB, Vince and I then decided to go to Oakbrook Mall to pass the time. We went to the Apple Store where the two guys acted like little kids in a candy store. We had fun playing with the new G5 with the built in iSight camera and the photo effects. Vince was so bummed because the G5 his brother gave him didn't have one. Oh well, that was a gift so he shouldn't be choosy, right?

When we got back to pick R up, it was already 3. KB and R were still supposed to clean up the house and pack some stuff. Vince and I ended up inheriting some of their foods in the fridge, and some odds and ends that they didn't want to take back to SC with them. I wanted to help them finish packing, because they helped V pack his stuff and move them to my place last June. But they were shooing us away.Vince and I arrived home at around 830pm.

A nice weekend spent with friends sure makes life more enjoyable.

I am a Domestic Diva

2005-10-18T18:27:00.000-05:00

To my surprise, my day today has gone quite productively. As soon as I finished my breakfast, I loaded four buckets of laundry. While the clothes were being washed, I vacuumed all throughout the apartment and cleaned the two bathrooms. After the laundry dried, I did the ironing. Then this afternoon, I made stuffed mushrooms and baked salmon for dinner. Wow, move over, June Cleaver!!!

On the wedding front, I got a hold of an old friend of my dad's. I was so happy to talk to her. I have a picture of her taken on my first birthday. She was beautiful, fair, skinny with long straight hair. She was wearing a miniskirt and platform shoes. Yes, it was in the 70's. :) I also remember her visiting us when I was about 3. She came over to our house with her American husband. She had a polaroid camera with her and took pictures of me and my childhood playmate, Darwin. I remember watching in awe, as our pictures formed on the polaroid film. My little three-year-old mind thought it was magic. I digressed. Anyway, she works at a flowershop in California. She said she would help me with the flowers and decorations. And she told me that I still have enough time to decide on this. So, at least I am not as stressed as I was earlier.

However, I am a little nervous about my dress. I called Belle Vie earlier to ask if I could get a swatch of my dress. My dad's friend said she needed to know what color my dress would be to make sure the flowers will match. She said, some white dresses don't look good with some flowers. Anyway, my consultant wasn't working this afternoon, but the lady I spoke with said that she could send me the swatch. I made sure she was going to send the pearl white swatch that I ordered my dress in. But she had this confused voice saying that my wedding receipt said I ordered it in white white. I looked at my copy and it said, pearl white, while she said that the pearl was crossed out and white was written above it. She said she will contact my consultant, S about it and will get in touch with me. I just hope everything is how it's supposed to be. I am not stressing about it. I am not stressing about it. I am not stressing about it.

Here Comes The Bridezilla!!!!

2005-10-18T15:58:00.000-05:00

Help!!! I am in a panic mode right now. It's 9 months before my wedding and I have so much planning to do. I have a ceremony and reception site. We are also going to have our rehearsal dinner and post-wedding brunch at the same hotel to simplify things for us and for out of town guests. I ordered my dress. And we booked a photographer already. Just when I thought I was ahead of the game, I found out that by this time, I should have booked videographer, florists, musicians, transportation, and hair and make-up artists, too. Aaaaaaaaaaaah!!!!

It doesn't help that I am so undecisive about everything. I can't even decide on my wedding color/theme/look. I initially wanted to do red, but since Vince's brother's wedding last year was red, I want to do something different. I am drawn to orange/coral red like this boquet, but I can't find any nice bridesmaid dresses in this color or something to complement it. My bridesmaids would kill me if I'd make them wear orange. I also like pink and brown, especially after seeing a cake cherry blossoms in pink and brown. Then this tiffany blue invitation caught my eye, so I thought of tiffany blue/brown motiff. I thought it would go well if I had a beach theme, but I have a marina view not a beach view at my reception. Nyaahh, I'm going nuts thinking of wedding colors. To all creative/artistic people out there, I'd appreciate any suggestions.

What's In My Closet?

2005-10-10T22:25:00.000-05:00

What a great timing! Paz tagged me with this meme after I just finished cleaning and organizing my closet.

3 Random Facts About My Closet

It's never big enough. Not enough shelves.
Some shoes are stored in clear boxes, some are stored in their original boxes with pictures of the shoes on the outside
I use white hangers

3 Items I've Never Worn But Still Haven't Tossed

A black tube assymetrical-hemmed cocktail dress
Burgundy/Wine chiffon dress I was supposed to wear to a graduation party
Hawaiian-inspired halter dress I was going to wear to a luau but changed my mind

3 Items I'll Never Get Rid of No Matter How Ugly They Get

Jeans
My brother's old sweatshirt
The dress I wore when Vince proposed to me.

3 Things That Made Me Go "oh, Lord, what was I thinking when I bought this?"

Beige knee-high stilleto boots (can't walk in them)
Pink striped blazer
Cream-colored velvet pants (LOL)

3 Things I have a surprising number of

Little black dresses
khaki pants
jeans

3 Dominant colors in my Wardrobe

black
brown
blue

3 Things That Never Fail to Put Me In a Good Mood Whenever I wear Them

my new favorite jeans(Rock&Republic) -make my legs look longer
Flannel Winnie the Pooh Nightshirt that V's sister gave me
My brother's old sweatshirt

I was bored

2005-10-05T12:19:00.000-05:00

Myrna Loy

You are class itself, the calm, confident "perfect woman." Men turn and
look at you admiringly as you walk down the street, and even your
rivals have a grudging respect for you. You always know the right thing
to say, do and, of course, wear. You can take charge of a situation
when things get out of hand, and you're a great help to your partner
even if they don't immediately see or know it. You are one classy dame.
Your screen partners include William Powell and Cary Grant, you little
simmerpot, you.

Find out what kind of classic leading man you'd make by taking the
Classic Leading Man Test.

My test tracked 4 variables How you compared to other people your age and gender:

You scored higher than 55% on grit
You scored higher than 52% on wit
You scored higher than 25% on flair
You scored higher than 72% on class

Link: The Classic Dames Test written by gidgetgoes on Ok Cupid, home of the 32-Type Dating Test

A Letter to Chicago

2005-09-30T13:11:00.000-05:00

Dear Chicago,

First of all, let me apologize for not bidding you my proper goodbye. It's been two months ago since I left you. And yet, I still think of you every so often. My last day with you, I went to Stella's Diner for breakfast. That corner diner on Broadway and Barry that Vince and I frequently passed by but only visited once on a weekend, was quiet this Friday morning. There were about five other customers, most of them in their 60s or 70s. I enjoyed my first (and probably the last) omelette from Stella's. In between bites, I pondered on how much I was going to miss you.

I admit that ours was a love-hate relationship. The first time I met you in August of 2000, I thought that you were cold and harsh. I couldn't understand why Vince loved you. I didn't appreciate your diversity. Even the excitement of shopping at Magnificent Mile didn't entice me. Nor the vast collection of art at the Institute lured me. I ignored your museums and theaters. Your confusing streets and chaotic traffic weren't very inviting either. Your denizens, I found them rude and incapable of driving without breaking any traffic rules. I hated looking for parking in your busy streets. I visited you a few more times, each time hating you. If not for Vince, I wouldn't have been there to see you.

I finally moved in May 2003. I still hated you at the time. It was a very difficult first year for us. I was very unhappy with everything...my job, my apartment, my neighborhood and most especially, you. I missed my family so much, but they were so far away. Vince was busy with residency, and I felt like I was left to find my way by myself and get to know you, which I refused to do.

Spring gave way to summer. And summer went by without me enjoying the fun things you had to offer. I didn't marvel at the beautiful color your trees showcased during fall either, for I knew winter would be there soon enough, and I would hate you even more. I came from a tropical country, you know. I wasn't used to snow and the cold.

When the last trace of snow finally melted. I finally gave in and started noticing you. I began enjoying your museums. I visited Fields several times. On my days off, I would go to the Art Institute to view your exhibits. I also relished walking on the streets of Michigan Avenue and looking at the window displays of posh stores which goods I could never afford. I enjoyed having lunch at Milleneum Park. Eating a sandwhich while admiring the Cloud Gate sculpture along with the tourists, became one of my favorite things to do. I learned to love my own neighborhood of Lakeview. I appreciated the fact that the grocery store was only three blocks away, and that I could just walk there if I needed something. I was grateful to be near restaurants, so that when I was too lazy to cook, all I had to do was walk three blocks and have my choice of diverse cuisines. It was very convenient that the lakeshore was just a few blocks away. I met a few good friends who showed me how fun you can be. I enjoyed the fun activities you offered me during the summer. I was finally feeling at home with you.

Of course when winter came, I began hating you again. There's something mean about you when winter comes. You become dark and dreary. But I guess that's part of your appeal. For without winter, I wouldn't see your beauty during the other seasons. And without winter, I wouldn't enjoy the other seasons as much. So I have come to realize that you are indeed worth loving. That Vince had a reason to choose you. You didn't only teach me how to become a defensive driver and to parallel park but you also taught me how to live my day to the fullest. Because of you, I learned to enjoy the good times and to be patient during the bad times. You gave me something to look forward to. I learned that winter will soon give way to spring.

After that breakfast at Stella's, I went back to my old apartment to get myself ready for a long drive to Indy. The sadness came over me, realizing that I'd be leaving you. Indianapolis will never be able to compete with you, but I will give it a chance to show me its own worth. See, your lessons stayed with me. I will forever be grateful to you for taking care of me and for teaching me to be happy where I am. I will never forget the memories we shared together.

love,
Richel

PS... I can't wait to see you tonight.

"The Dress"

2005-09-11T13:29:00.000-05:00

Heather, the bridal consultant, looked exasperated after helping me into a dress. I looked in the mirror, my eyes not registering the "this is it" expression that Heather was hoping for. The salon was busy. There were two other brides besides me and my friend, N who also came with me to try on gowns. N and I ended up sharing the room because we got tired of going out to show the other how we looked with the gowns on. Good thing that we have different tastes. No chance of catfight over "The Dress." N is more into the extravagant, princess ball gowns. Just 5 feet tall, you wouldn't think she'd be the type who'd want to stand out. But her personality calls for it. I, on the other hand, scopes out the simple A-line gowns with the least beading or adornment as possible.

So, after trying on the last gown that I have picked. I was ready to give up. Heather came out of the dressing room and returned bearing two more gowns. I wasn't really interested at this time. N looked at the gowns, and exclaimed. "Richel, you gotta try this on. This is so you." I smiled at her. She looked beautiful in a Lazaro strapless ivory satin ball gown with jeweled crystal trims on the bodice. Like a little kid, she was all giddy and excited. I tried on one of the gowns at her urging. As Heather helped me into the dress, I realized that this one looked familiar. I knew I had seen this in a magazine before, and thought that it was pretty. I gazed at myself on the mirror. The strapless silk satin gown was simple enough yet elegant. The waist was lined with delicate beadings. Its chapel train adorned with three small flowers, giving the dress just a touch of uniqueness. The skirt falls into an A-line giving my figure the illusion of height. I felt like a bride.

As a little girl I never dreamed of myself getting married. I never even imagined myself in a wedding gown. Maybe this is the reason why it's difficult for me to find "The Dress." After five visits to different salons, I couldn't believe that I finally found "The Dress" so I didn't order it yet. I may have found it but I'd like to make sure, first. I have until the end of this month to make a decision but I haven't stopped thinking about the dress since we left the salon. Could it be that I found the dress the way love found me... when I wasn't looking/interested? Perhaps this is the one. We'll find out by the end of this month. :)

seven

2005-09-06T23:05:00.000-05:00

This blog needs some attention, so thanks to Joy and Rhona for tagging me. Here are my sevens in no particular order.

7 Things That Scare Me

Losing a loved one
Disappointing my loved ones
Being alone inside an elevator
Car accidents
Snakes
Getting lost in a shady neighborhood
Passing by the hospital morgue

7 Things I like the Most

vacations with my family
exploring a new place with Vince
the smell of babies
going home to San Diego
visiting museums
musicals
looking at photographs

7 Random Facts about me

i am shy and quiet, but once i get to know a person i can be talkative
my real name is a combination of my parents' names
i have E.T. fingers (my knuckles are big)
i like getting to work at least half an hour early, otherwise i'd feel unprepared and disorganized the whole day
i love cheesecake
i believe in God
i love okra

7 Important Things in My Bedroom

Bed
Pillows
Comforter
Nightstand
Lamps
Books, bible
alarm clock

7 Things I Plan To Do Before I die

Have kids, raise them and be around to see them have their own
Travel more/Visit new places
Bring V and my future kids to see the Philippines
Have more fun in life
Adapt a healthful lifestyle
Learn patience
Ask for forgiveness for everything I've done wrong

7 Things I Can Do

Curl my toes (V says I'm like a monkey)
Curl my tongue
Laugh at myself
Live without cable tv
Make cassava cake and leche flan
Spend all day surfing the net

7 Things I Can't Do

Rollerblade
Ride a bike
Whistle
Carry a tune
Dance gracefully
Go a day without talking to V
Drive a stick shift

7 Things That Attract me to Opposite Sex

Good manners/Being gentleman, nice, thoughtful
Looks(neat appearance)
Intelligence
Nice voice/calm voice
Sense of humor
His values
Smile

7 Things That I say the Most

Ay nako!
Aiya-yai!
Yikes!
Ano ba yan?
Uh-oh
What are you doing?(to Vince)
Do you have any pain? (at work, heheheh)

7 Celebrity crushes- none

7 People I want to see take this quiz: anyone who wants to do it.

Wedding Plans

2005-08-23T16:21:00.000-05:00

Vince and I will fly to San Diego tomorrow to take care of some wedding stuff. We haven't checked anything off our to do list because life has been crazy lately. Aside from the move and starting new jobs, we had to wait until Vince finished taking his board exam so he didn't have to worry about studying while meeting with wedding vendors.

I can't wait to see my family and friends back home. My aunt from Oxnard, CA will be spending a week in San Diego while Vince and I are there. One of my cousins is having a party for his daughters' birthdays on Saturday. A mini-reunion for all my relatives in Cali has already been planned. I am really excited eventhough I know that going home won't really be a vacation since we have to work on our wedding plans.

So anyway, back to wedding plans. I want to do something to commemorate my late parents during my wedding ceremony or reception. I have heard of others lighting a candle in memory of their late loved ones. I am wondering if there are other creative ways I could do this. Any suggestions?

dancing through life

2005-08-17T13:02:00.000-05:00

I started my new job at X Hospital last week. X Hospital belongs to a big group of hospital and twice each month, they give all new employees of each hospitals an orientation to the facilities, benefits, policies, customer service etc. On the second day of orientation, the facilitator gave each one of us a piece of paper and instructed us to go to other employees, write their names up, which department/hospital they will be going to, their functions, and what they like to do in their spare times. Being a shy person, one of my concerns about moving to another place is the difficulty of finding new friends. But I vowed that I will try my best to open myself up to opportunities of making new friends. This activity, I thought, was a great way to start.

I went up to two older ladies in the corner of the room. They were talking to each other, so I waited for them to acknowledge me,which seemed like forever. I flashed my biggest smile when one of the ladies looked at me. She didn't say anything, so I introduced myself and asked her name. The other lady finally looked at me, but gave me a look that made me feel unwelcomed. It was as if I disturbed her from a very important conversation. She didn't seem too interested with the task the facilitator gave us, either. This really disturbed me, especially because the facilitator talked about customer service not only to customers and patients, but also to your co-workers. I left their table feeling uneasy about joining this hospital. I know they are not representatives of all the employees of that hospital, but I still felt so unwelcomed.

I don't know why but this incident discouraged me in meeting new friends. I tried to shake the feeling out and be positive, but it bothered me so much. I remembered the story of a little girl who loved to dance. (To protect the innocent people, some details were changed) The little girl was in her ballet class or recital. She and her classmates had to hold hands and dance. She tried to take the hand of one of her classmates but the other girl ignored her and danced with another classmate. The girl was surprised at first, for having been rejected. But soon after, she just went along and danced happily on her own. How I wish I had that little girl's resilience and spunk. I should take a lesson from her "So what if they ignored me; I am gonna dance and have fun."

High Fives

2005-08-07T23:42:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Paz and Star for tagging me:

5 CDs In My Player:

Kelli Clarkson--Breakaway (for the pop princess in me)
Avril Lavigne-- Under My Skin(for the angry punk girl in me)
Ms Saigon Soundtrack (I love Broadway! And I love Lea!)
Vivaldi's Four Seasons (always makes me feel happy)
The Lord of the Ring Soundtrack (whenever Vince is driving, he has to listen to this, so I end up listening to it)

5 Movies I've Seen Recently:

Batman Begins
Mr. & Mrs. Smith
Unleashed
Star Wars Episode 3
The Incredibles

5 Nice Things That Happened To You Lately:

Vince shaved his moustache/goatee (or fu-man chu as he calls it)
Will start new job tomorrow (I should be sleeping now)
Finished most of the unpacking; I can finally see the floor.
I'm back on DSL, yaayy. No more dial-up service. I can blog and read others blogs.
I got engaged!

what are the things you enjoy doing when there's no one around you?

Belt out Broadway and Pop songs (off-key, of course, much to my neighbors' dismay)
Dance and practice steps
Play computer games such as Yahoo's Bookworm
Read books or articles out loud using different accents (yes, I am a weirdo)
Put together different outfits and modelling them in front of the mirror (ok, you can laugh now)

what lowers your stress/blood pressure/anxiety level?

praying, quiet time with GOD, reading the bible
exercise --yoga or a good cardio
Classical music/ Brahms Lullabies
going out/spending time/chatting with friends
Vince

If you are reading this and you haven't done it yet, I tag you.

July Highlights

2005-08-05T01:06:00.000-05:00

July flew by so quickly. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I must say that I've been so busy all month that I neglected this poor blogsite. Here's a recap of what made me busy the rest of the month of July.

July 15 and 16

My friend Grace has cooked up a plan for our group to go to Wisconsin Dells. So, with Grace driving, Wendy at the front seat and Cielo, Nidie and I at the back, the three hour ride to the Dells was not so bad. I fell asleep maybe half of the way, and half of it munched junk food with the girls. I didn't realized I needed a break so much until we arrived at the water park. Playing in the waterpark, going in the waterslides and just soaking up the sun were just what I needed to refresh me. Our first night at the resort, we planned to see the Tommy Bartlett show but Grace's car wouldn't start. The battery died because we plugged the cooler for almost three hours. The ever-prepared Grace brought out an emergency charger from her trunk but it didn't work. She had to call for someone to charge the battery back up. After hours of waiting, the battery was charged, but too late for the show. So we just ate dinner at Houlihan's.

The next day, we went on a Duck Tour. It was fun to see the houses by the Wisconsin river, and go through the woods on this duck bus. Our tour guide was sorta funny, too. After the tour, we finally got to see the Tommy Bartlett show. It's a water skii, sort of circus show. After a while it got boring. But there were some entertaining parts.

We went back to Chicago after that. My body hated me the next day when I had to go back to work.

This weekend was also the weekend for Vince's brother Q's graduation party in LA. Vince joined his family in celebrating Q's graduation from residency. I missed the party because I had committed myself in going to Wisconsin with the girls, and I had to work that Sunday. I really regret missing it though, as I heard from Vince that everyone had a great time.

July 20

My last day from work at St. Joe's. G and S, my managers, had breakfast prepared for the starff in honor of me and A, another employee leaving our unit. E, another nurse also made up a tray of sumptuous lemon bars. I was also surprised that some of the docs came up to me and said goodbye. Dr. C even gave me a token to remember him by. I was really touched for what they did.

My two years at this unit have been very challenging. I had a difficult time adjusting to some of my co-workers attitudes. Fortunately, I have forged friendships with a few wonderful women(most of them from the night staff) who made the working place bearable. Because of them, leaving this unit has not become that easy.

July 23

Ate Cynthia, Grace, Cielo and I went to Grant Park to enjoy the free stepping dance lesson that was offered to the public. It rained a little bit and the park was wet but a lot of people still came to learn a few moves. We all had a great time moving to the rhythm or in my case, out of rhythm. Cielo and Ate Cynthia picked the dance steps so quickly. I was fumbling most of the time. After the lesson, we went back to the Korean place where Sooh took us the last time. The place was packed and the waitress didn't seem to happy to see us. Nevertheless, we enjoyed yummy Korean barbecue.

July 27

My quest for "The Dress" started today. Grace, Lea and I drove to the bridal store to try on some dresses. We found mostly strapless gowns. I was drawn to this one strapless dress that had beadings on the chest area and gather or ruche on one side of the waist. It's made up of silk or satin, I guess. Hehehehe, does it sound like I need to brush up on bridal gown terminologies? But Grace brought out this other dress with some embroideries. The gown looked elegant and simple enough for my liking. So now I was torn between two. But the quest hasn't end yet. The girls and I are planning to make more trips to different salons. I plan to buy my dress in Chicago, instead of Indy because I have no one to go dress-shopping with in Indy. Getting the dress from San Diego would be too much of a hassle since I would need to go back and forth to San Diego and Indy for alterations and fittings.

July 28

So the next day would have been my last day in Chicago. I was still at my apartment, all packed up. All I needed to do was clean the apartment. I decided to patch up the holes I made when I hung some racks on the bathroom wall. The bathroom wall was painted cream or off-white, but the patch or plaster used to cover up the holes was white. So I thought I would get some paint from Home Depot to touch it up. I chose a paint color that matched the bathroom wall closely, so I thought. When I got home, I painted over the patch and realized that it was a little light. It was not that obvious, but somehow, I got a little obsessive and decided to paint the whole wall. Yes, the entire wall. After finishing the wall, I went to clean the windows and noticed that the window sill had some stains. So I scrubbed it up with soap and sponge. Ooops, I scrubbed off the paint, too. So guess what. I ended up painting the window sill also. And while doing that, I was praying that the apartment janitor won't be upset at what I've done. When I told the apartment janitor that I would be leaving the next day and that I needed to make a walk-through with him, he told me, "just make sure the kitchen and bathroom are clean" I thought to myself, "you'll be surprised how clean they are."

Lion King

2005-07-16T19:48:00.000-05:00

Lion King
Originally uploaded by shellybeeens.

Last June 29, my friends from work Grace, Wendy, Sooh and I watched the musical Lion King. I couldn't help ooh-ing and aah-ing at the creativity of this musical. Awesome costumes and props. I wish this will still be around for my future kids to watch.

my chicago family

2005-07-16T19:39:00.000-05:00

chicago family
Originally uploaded by shellybeeens.

Vince and I had Korean barbecue with our friends from his program.

Vince's Graduation

2005-07-16T19:36:00.000-05:00

Vince's Graduation
Originally uploaded by shellybeeens.

A picture of Vince and me at Adler Planetarium balcony

We've Only Just Begun

2005-07-12T11:11:00.000-05:00

Life has taught us that love does not consist in gazing at each other,
but in looking outward, together, in the same direction.
-antoine de saint-exupéry Wind, Sand and Stars, 1939

The past days were a whirl of events filled with emotions I never imagined I would feel all at the same time. I tried to blog about my recent escapades, but life got in the way. But now that things have slowed down a bit, let me share them with you.

June 23, 2005 Thursday

Vince's parents, brother Bernie, niece Wei arrived from California to celebrate Vince's graduation with us. Our first night together was shared over Persian food at Reza's. The conversation with Bernie about cookbooks and gourmet foods was interesting. After dinner, we had coffee at the local Starbucks, then off we drove to the Museum Campus to show them where the graduation would be held the next day. The night was warm and mosquitoes were feasting on us, so we decided to take them back to their hotel.

June 24, 2005 Friday

Vince and I woke up early to show the family Rush Medical Center where Vince works. Then we met up with Brian, Vince's friend for lunch. After lunch, we walked back to Vince's apartment, rested for a little bit, then walked to Bobtails for ice cream and milkshakes. I left early to get a haircut, and Vince took his family back to their hotel to get ready for graduation.

The cab-ride to Adler Planetarium where the graduation was held was quicker than we expected. We arrived so early that we were the first ones to be there. We waited outside the planetarium for some more people to show up. When finally all the other guests have arrived, we made our way to the planetarium. It was fun seeing familiar faces and meeting new ones. I finally had the chance to meet Dr. S, one of Vince's mentors. The Adler was decorated appropriately for the occasion. Huge glass windows on one side of the planetarium provided a view of Chicago skyline. It was a beautiful sight.

While waiting for the ceremony to start, Vince asked me to go down by the lakefront to get some air and take in the view. I refused at first saying that I didn't want to his family to look for us and feel left out. And besides, my feet were killing me with the 3 inches heels I was wearing. ( I need heels; Vince is 5'10" and I am, uhmmm...nevermind.) But he was able to convince me. So we were walking by the lakefront, the wind blowing on my hair and on my dress. Vince was thanking me for being with him during his residency and providing him with the support that he needed. When all of a sudden I found Vince on his knee. At first I thought he was tying on his shoelaces. But I realized that he didn't have shoelaces on. It occurred to me what was happening, and I just blurted out, "what are you doing?" Talk about ruining the moment. Panic rushed over me. A million thoughts flooded my mind. "What is he doing, and what am I doing? Is this what I think it is? Why today? What am I going to do? Oh, wait, he has a ring. Is that a ring? Oh my parents would have been so happy. My brother. Did Vince ask my brother ahead of time? Oh no, his parents, does his family know? A wedding in San Diego. Next summer. Oh no, I only have a year to plan. Dang, these shoes are killing me." I took a deep breath, and tried to compose myself, and joke, "hmmm, let me think." Then of course I asked him to get up and gave him a big hug.

At first I was upset at him for asking me on his graduation day. I didn't want to take away the attention from his and his parents' accomplishment. But he wanted to share that day with me, and now that day will forever be etched in my memory.

Five years... and we're just beginning. We have come so far. The long distance relationship and the challenge of leaving home to be closer to him have made me grow and mature not only in my relationship with him but also with my family and with God. And now we have promised to spend the rest of our lives together, to face the future not alone but together.

Busy in Chicago

2005-06-23T11:41:00.000-05:00

I haven't updated in a while. But that's nothing new. I have a busy weekend and week ahead of me. Tomorrow is Vince's graduation and his family is arriving from San Francisco tonight. I am excited to see them again. It has been a year since we last got together. I know Vince is very happy, although he's playing it cool. Vince and I have plans of where we're going to take them. We're both thrilled to show them around Chicago.

It's going to be a busy weekend for Chicago also, as the Taste of Chicago is going to start tomorrow. This festival of food and music draws crowds from all over the world. And the Chicago Gay Parade will be held on Sunday, too. There are concerts and festivals going on all over the city. Summer time is really a busy time in Chicago. I guess, people want to cram in all the fun that they could have in two months.

As for me, there are so many issues I have to deal with, issues which I can't blog about yet until I finally determine what courses of action I need to take. So many decisions that have to be made. So many weighing of pros and cons. So many sleepless nights and hours spent agonizing, mulling over things that are too significant to just give one thought. Am I too indecisive? Or just cautious? I want to be happy with the choice I will make. And not be sorry in the end. So despite the busy weekend ahead, I will not rush through making this big decision. I will take my time.

Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Oscar, the grouch and the New Me

2005-06-13T19:51:00.000-05:00

Last Friday, Vince and I had the pleasure of seeing two of the most gorgeous stars in Hollywood Brad and Angelina. (Ok, for those of you who are fans of Jen, please don't send me hate emails. I like her, too. But I must say that Angelina is scorching hot.) We chose to go downtown to catch Mr. & Mrs. Smith because all the other theaters that show it didn't have any restaurants nearby. We managed to take the bus and arrive at the theater at around 830pm. The earliest showtime that wasn't sold out was 1030pm. We knew it would be crowded later so we decided to eat at CPK down the street so we wouldn't have to worry about running late. By the time we finished eating it was 10pm already. When we got back to the theater, there was a long line of people waiting to be seated. We were both glad that we got back early enough to get good seats.

Both Vince and I enjoyed the movie and agreed it would be a good one to own in DVD. I don't want to get into a lot of details of the movie for I don't want to ruin it for those who haven't seen it yet, but there was this scene where Brad and Angelina were having therapy and Brad was saying "I love my wife, but sometimes...." then putting his hands in front of him as if he wanted to strangle someone. I heard Vince laughed at this so hard, I knew it was because he could so relate to it. Ok, it was amusing. But did he have to laugh so hard?? (Tama ba 'yun?)

It was already past 1 am when the movie finished. The stores on Magnificent Mile were closed and only a few people roamed Michigan Avenue. We were both hoping the bus ran late. Luckily, Bus 147 came. This bus takes the express route bypassing many stops. We normally take Bus 151 which is a longer route. I told Vince that we could take this one, but we'd have to walk about three blocks to get to my apartment complex. "Good, it'll take us 15 mins to get home instead of the usual 30 mins," I thought to myself. Both tired and sleepy, we quietly took our seats. When we got onto Lakeshore Drive, I realized that the bus wouldn't stop until reaching Foster Ave, which was way past our stop. But it was too late to get off. I told Vince that we took the wrong bus. He was silent. And I, embarrassed by my mistake, couldn't say anything more. I didn't realize that although the South bound bus stops near my place, the North bound route bypasses my stop. So, the moment the bus took its first stop on Foster Ave, Vince and I got off. We walked to the opposite bus stop where we waited for the right bus to come. By this time, it was already 115am and I wasn't sure whether there were still buses running at that time. The neighborhood where we ended was not in a nice area. I was really scared for our lives. I was grateful to see a police car down the street, but in a way even more afraid because it must meant that this was not a safe place. We both decided on taking the cab when we saw Bus 151 coming. I breathed a sigh of relief. Vince and I hurriedly stepped on the bus, and thanked the busdriver. We safely got home after this. But Vince asked me never to lead the way next time. :(

The next day, I woke up around 1030 am, grumpy and sufferring from cramps. I realized it was my birthday. Why do I have to have cramps on my birthday? Of course I was grouchy, which I always am around that time of the month. Vince made a reservation for my birthday dinner at North Pond, but I asked to cancel it because I was having cramps and I was grouchy. I bet you Vince was feeling the same way Brad's character was feeling about his wife. Like he was about ready to strangle me. I felt bad that Vince had to endure my sulky mood. He always calls me Oscar, the grouch whenever I get grumpy. And that day, on my birthday, my name was Oscar, the grouch. What a yucky day!

So on Sunday, when I was feeling better and my cramps were gone, I asked Vince if we could start over again and pretend it was my birthday. I didn't want to go to North Pond but asked if we could have Chinese brunch at Phoenix restaurant where they serve dimsum. So, he gladly obliged. After the brunch, we did some Asian food shopping. Vince also patiently went with me as I scoured each store looking for bead necklaces. When I didn't find what I want, we both agreed to go home but not without buying our favorite boba shakes from Joy Yee's. As I happily slurped my mango-lychee tapioca shake, while occasionally stealing sips of Vince's taro shake, I offered silent thanks to God for all the blessings He has given me: my family who never fails to support me, my friends for sharing their lives with me, and for Vince for being patient despite my grouchiness. For safety and protection when in shady neighborhood. For simple pleasures like watching movies, eating dimsum and drinking boba shakes. Another birthday has passed. Another opportunity to make myself better. Another adventure waiting ahead. Another chance to start anew.

the Bean

2005-06-01T22:25:00.000-05:00

I was out downtown this morning to spend the day like a tourist. I went to the Millenium Park to take pictures of the sculpture Cloud Gate. I was, however, disappointed when I got there and saw this huge white tent encasing the sculpture famously known as the Bean. It seemed the $11,500,000 metal monstrosity had to be repaired or finished. Although the Bean was not in its best state, a lot of tourists still enjoyed taking pictures of it and with it. There was a group of kids wearing yellow t-shirts out in a field trip posing against it, with their parents and teachers reminding them to say cheese. There was a man laying down on the floor to take pictures of the bottom side of it. (I don't know why.) There were old ladies with their walkers sitting and resting on one of the park benches. Today was really a nice day to go out and play.

After taking pictures of the Bean, I walked to the Jay Pritzker Pavilion next to it. The stage's roof looks like a headress made of curled metal. Looking up, you could see a net of trellis-like metal above. I think those are used to hang speakers so that the sound is evenly distributed to the whole pavilion. Venue to outdoor concerts, this pavilion is also a makeshift picnic/lunch setting to some of downtown's employees, residents and visitors. A young couple laid out a picnic blanket for their baby to crawl on while they munch on their sandwhiches.

I forgot to walk farther to take pictures of the Crown Fountain. I wish I could have taken pictures of the faces spitting water or walk on the sunken wet ground. Maybe next time.

When I first heard about the unveiling of the new Millenium Park last year, I wasn't impressed with all that metal. For me, it looked hot on a summer day and glaring. I thought that it wouldn't blend with the park's greeneries. But when I saw the Bean, I marvelled at its elegance and beauty and it's ever changing face. The reflection of the city's skyline and the people around it makes for a very interesting sculpture. It's by far my most favorite part of the park.

More photos here.

2005-06-01T09:07:00.000-05:00

Cloud Gate while being repaired/refinished.

2005-06-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

Pritzker Pavilion

2005-06-01T08:05:00.000-05:00

The Cloud Gate--taken year 2004.

Moving Woes and Finding Home

2005-05-18T09:55:00.000-05:00

I just hate moving and the whole process that goes with it... looking for a place to live, for a job, applying for licenses, notifying people and business of my new address, cancelling current utilities and putting up new ones, planning for the whole move itself, hiring movers, packing, unpacking, getting to know the new place, looking for new doctors, dentists, eye doctor. Aaaaaaaaaaah... I could go on and on.

Vince and I have only two months left before we move to Indianapolis, and yet I haven't started looking for a job or signed a lease yet on a place to live. What is wrong with me? I know that I am a procrastinator princess, but things like these should never be put on hold. It will give me more distress than I can handle later on. I just can't seem to motivate myself on doing the important things to do. I finally called the Indiana Board of Nursing to ask about my application for license, and I was told that it's on the mail. At least I have one thing checked from my growing list of things to do. Now maybe I can continue to the other 999 things left for me to do.

I think the reason why I keep putting this off is that I know this move will only be temporary. Vince and I plan on staying in Indianapolis for about a year or two at the most, since our ultimate goal is to move back to the West close to our families... maybe to Arizona or back to California... hopefully back to San Diego(ok, that's my goal. hey, one can dream, right?) So, knowing that I will be moving again after about a year just makes me tired and lazy.

I've been uprooted a few times that I feel like I don't know where home is anymore. Philippines will always be called "back home", but when I am there, I feel like I don't belong there anymore. Sad to say, but everytime I come home for a visit, I just feel like a mere "visitor"--someone who will be going back to where I was before. San Diego is the place I called home for eleven years before I was convinced to move to Chicago. I admit I resisted liking this place at first, because I didn't want to leave the Philippines. But eleven years is more than enough time for this place to grow on me. I discovered its beauty(nice beaches, temperate climates) and accepted its flaws(expensive living). Two years have passed since I moved to Chicago, and I still haven't called it home. I enjoy this exciting and vibrant city. I love being able to take the bus to go downtown to windowshop and watch people. But I hate the weather, and the fact that my family is miles away. Soon I will be moving to Indianapolis. Will I love it there? Will it become a permanent place to live or will it be just a temporary one like Vince and I planned? Will I call it home or will I just be a visitor passing by? They say home is where the heart is. If that is so, as long as Vince and I are together, I should feel at home.

My Hospital Experience

2005-05-09T10:02:00.000-05:00

Last Tuesday, I found myself in the receiving end of healthcare. I had an EGD(esophagogastroduodenoscopy or Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy-- a procedure done by inserting a long flexible scope in your mouth into the esophagus, stomach and duodenum to visualize the upper gastrointestinal tract.) My primary doctor referred me to the GI guy after my complaints of nausea, frequent heartburns and gas problems(belching...not the other end-- although either way, it's gross.) So, off I went to see Dr. S, the GI doc I know from my unit. He's a gentle doctor, always very nice to patients and staff. And very knowledgeable, too. So last Tuesday, after fasting since dinner, no food or drink, I woke up at 530 am to be at the hospital at 6 for my procedure at 7. I arrived at the hospital with so much apprehension. I knew that I would have a simple procedure. I would be given sedation, and be able to go home after recovery from the procedure the same day. Yet, the fact that I would be turning myself into the hands of the heathcare team was daunting. And the fear of finding the cause of my problems was greater.

After registering myself in the admission office, I went up to the GI lab. I was a little early, so there was no one in the unit, except for E. She showed me where I would wait, had me change into the hospital gown, and gave me something to read while waiting. As I lay down on the gurney, the big hospital gown swallowing up my small frame, I perused the celebrity magazines E gave me, but somehow reading Angelina's and Brad's vacation in Africa couldn't keep me from being nervous. Another nurse, M, came in and went over my medical history and had me sign a consent form for the procedure. While she was doing that, another nurse P, came and inserted an IV on me. P learned that I work on the 5th floor. And she said, "That's why you're here, 'cause your job is giving you an ulcer." We both laughed since we both know how busy my unit gets.

She and M, then wheeled me into the procedure room. M attached me to the monitors, took my vital signs; my BP was 120/68. I am normally on the 90s/50s. Dr. S, came and explained what we might find out from the procedure from my symptoms, blah, blah, blah.. By this time, I was already too anxious to listen and care, and just wanted to get the procedure over with. So finally, they made me lie down on my left side, E gave me oxygen, and M told me she would give me some Versed ( a sedation drug.) The last thing I remember was Dr. S inserting the tube in my mouth. Then I heard M telling me that the procedure was done, and that I did well. Then I was wheeled back to the waiting area to recover. I dozed on and off, M or P came to check on me a few times. Then after about an hour, I was more alert. P took the IV off my arm and told me that I could get dressed and wait for Dr. S for the results and instructions.

Dr. S came and told me the EGD showed reflux esophagitis( and hemorrhagic gastritis(inflammation of the stomach). Great, now I have to take medication everyday to reduce the acid and avoid caffeine. He also recommended low fat diet, as he said that fat tends to make the esophageal muscles weak, thus causing more reflux. Does that mean no more greasy Filipino foods? He also said no food three hours before bed. So that also means I will have to sleep an hour later on work days, when I go home around 8 and finish eating dinner at 9. I usually sleep at 11. Wow, this is going to be a major lifestyle change. Perhaps it's time to look for another job where I could eat my lunch on proper times, without inhaling it so I could go back to my work, and go home on time to have dinner early. Just some thoughts. Anyway, after Dr. S's instructions, Vince picked me up and brought me back to my apartment where I slept some more.

From this experience, I learned a few things:

how nerve-wracking it is to have a procedure. So it is very important for me to educate the patient about the procedures(the more you know, the less scary it is) and give them reassurance.

how uncomfortable the hospital gurneys are.

it's better to be the caregiver than to be the receiver.

how important it is to take care of my own health. I know what to do, and yet don't always do it.

Could Be

2005-05-04T23:59:00.000-05:00

I got this from Marie's site:

Pick 5 occupations out of the list below and post my answers. I tag anyone who visits my blog. You can post your answers on your blog or on the comment section.

If I could be a scientist. If I could be a farmer. If I could be a musician. If I could be a doctor. If I could be a painter. If I could be a gardener. If I could be a missionary. If I could be a chef. If I could be an architect. If I could be a linguist. If I could be a psychologist. If I could be a librarian. If I could be an athlete. If I could be a lawyer. If I could be an inn-keeper. If I could be a professor. If I could be a writer. If I could be a llama-rider. If I could be a bonnie pirate. If I could be an astronaut. If I could be a world famous blogger. If I could be a justice on any one court in the world. If I could be married to any current famous political figure.

Here are my choices:
If I could be a chef, I would be a dessert chef and create delectable cakes and pastries. My family and friends would need to exercise more.
If I could be an athlete, I would be a figure skater. I love how beautiful and graceful figure skaters look. Plus, I would have great-looking legs and a nice butt.
If I could be a gardener, I would grow different varieties of orchids and tulips... my favorite flowers.
If I could be a scientist, I would do research and help discover cancer treatments.
If I could be a llama rider, I would save a lot on gas, but I would need a bunch of grass. (hey it rhymes!)

Doctor Appointments

2005-05-02T11:48:00.000-05:00

Last week, I called my doctor's office to make an appointment for an initial check up. The person who picked up the phone did not introduce herself. After she took down my information such as name and insurance( I am a new patient) and scheduled me for the next day's appointment, I asked her if the doctor could also do a pap on me. She said, "yes, I can do that." I got a little confused because usually the Medical Receptionist or the Nurse take down appointments, so I asked, "Are you a Nurse Practitioner or a Physician Assistant?", since some doctors hire NP or PA to do some of their tasks. Then the lady said, "No, this is Dr. G." Ooops. I was impressed, though. Not many doctors answer their office calls or schedule their appointments.

Les Miserables

2005-04-26T14:19:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, I had the chance to see one of my favorite musicals Les Mis for the third time. The first time I saw Les Mis was about ten years ago. I had the soundtrack to the musical long before this, and listened to it thousands of times. Although I haven't memorized all the words, I can sing my favorite parts by heart. Even Jean Valjean's part. I may not sing beautifully, and I am often off-key, but once I start Eponine's On My Own, I'm transformed into this waif, singing her tale of unrequited love in the streets of Paris.

Les Mis, as Vince has mentioned in his blog, is popular among the the old and the young audience alike. As with the book from which it was adapted, the musical has been translated into different languages and has been shown in different countries. Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg successfully adapted Victor Hugo's words into beautiful music. But I think a great part of the musical's universal appeal lies on Hugo's characters and their plights. Unfortunately poverty, prostitution, the battle between good and evil, exist today as they did during Hugo's time.

Freebies

2005-04-22T17:00:00.000-05:00

I ordered these from Nordstrom.com:

And they sent me these:

I just love freebies.

My BF's affair with his hairdresser and my search for the "one"

2005-04-21T20:54:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, while I was in bed nursing a nasty cold, my boyfriend went out for his monthly rendezvous with his hairstylist, D. I am so jealous of Vince's and D's relationship. No, I don't think there's more to it than haircutting involved. D is about fifty years old and Vince doesn't go for older women. :) The truth is, I envy Vince because he has found the perfect person to cut his hair.

Vince and D seem to have the kind of relationship I wish to have with my hairstylist, if I ever found the one. The kind in which I'd be confident enough to tell her, "do whatever" because I trust her haircutting skills and know that she will cut my hair just the way I like it.

He is so loyal to D that his friends and I could not convince him to try another hairstylist. Vince never misses an appointment with D. One time, we had to cut a trip short just so he could be at D's shop early enough before the closing. Last winter when D slipped on ice and broke her leg, Vince had no choice but to go to another stylist, but he didn't like the way his hair was cut. He was so happy when D finally recovered and went back to work.

And the conversations between them go beyond the superficial, "how are you? how do you want your hair cut this time?" Vince once told me how D's bestfriend was battling cancer. The past few months that Vince got his haircut, I'd hear news about D and her bestfriend. Last month, Vince sadly told me how D's bestfriend lost the battle. And I am sure that D is privy about Vince's trials and tribulations at work.

I on the other hand, hop from one salon to another in search of the "one". Other than my mom who used to cut my hair until I was 17, I have never gone to a hairstylist more than twice. I have tried expensive salons, midpriced shops , and even low-budget ones to find that perfect person to cut my hair. My search has led me to a lot of disappointments and frustrations, not to mention bad hair days.

One time, I went to a posh salon in downtown Chicago. I was certain I would find the "one" here. Why not? The salon's ambience was ultra-chic. I could see myself going out of the salon with hair so bouncy and style so modern, like in those shampoo commercials. Sure enough the stylist was able to cut my hair how I wanted it. But I was turned off because the entire time he was cutting my hair, he was chatting with another stylist from the next stall. "Hellooooo... what about me????" It may sound self-centered, but I want my hairstylist to focus on me. I don't want to be just another head he's working on. He doesn't have to tell me his life story, he just has to show interest in knowing me, because by doing so, he'll be able to offer better service.

Then there was a time I went to a shop in Chinatown through a suggestion of one of my co-workers who said that Chinese hairstylists may be able to cut my straight hair to my liking because they have more experience with cutting my type of hair. The shop seemed nice and clean; however, after the hairwashing lady shampooed my hair, she used this towel that smelled like a wet rag to wrap my hair. I wanted to tell her to change the towel, but she could only speak in Mandarin. Luckily for me, the stylist could speak English.

Then I've been to a no-frills salon where you get a haircut for a very low price. You pay extra for washing, drying and styling. I am wary about going back to these types of salon because usually these shops employ stylists who have none to limited experience. One time, I ended up with uneven hair. I dared not go back to the same salon to have it corrected.

As you can see, I haven't been as lucky as Vince in finding my own D. Maybe Vince will share?

No blogging under the influence

2005-04-17T13:00:00.000-05:00

I was reading the entry that I just posted, and it occurred to me how retarded I sound. Is it the effect of medications? Or is my writing style that .... hmm bad?

Sick

2005-04-17T11:46:00.000-05:00

I've been feeling under the weather this week. It started last Wednesday when I came down with symptoms of allergy: runny nose, sneezing, and congestion. Since I moved here to Chicago, I've been sufferring from bouts of allergy. Thinking it was plain allergy attack, I asked Vince to call a script of Allegra for me at our local Walgreens pharmacy. However when I came home from work last Friday with chills and a fever of 101.5F, I realized that this may not be a simple allergy. I developed dry hacking cough, and my runny nose, sneezing and congestion have become worse. My eyes and face are all red. I really felt bad for my patients. Imagine this:

Me: (With a hoarse voice) Good morning, Mr. Patient. I am Shelly; and I will be your nurse today. Excuse me for a minute.
(Go outside the room. Cross my legs, and cough, cough, cough. Wash hands. Go back to pt's room)
Mr. P: Are you ok?
Me: Uhm, yes. May I listen to your heart and lungs? (Fumble with my stethoscope)

Hah! Very professional. How would you feel if you were the patient? Hehehe, scared? Can't blame you. I am glad that my other patients were too disoriented to care.

Anyway, I went home, took a cool shower, popped Tylenol and went to bed. Vince came over with my Allegra. It helped with the stuffiness, but the nagging cough is still there. To help my cough and soothe my sore throat, Vince made this weird concoction of coke and ginger, a formula he learned from his mom . Surprisingly, it didn't taste as disgusting as it sound. In fact, I liked the taste of it. But it didn't really help that much. Aiyah, chinese medicines! Vince took a swig of it, and said, "Awful! This tastes like mom's herbal teas. And you like it?" Heehee, I thought it was better than the stuff my mom made me drink when I was sick as a kid. Have you ever had oregano elixir? Yuck! No wonder I hate taking medications.

Decisions

2005-03-29T08:58:00.000-06:00

Vince and I are moving to Indianapolis in June. What made this a very difficult decision to make was that as soon as he signed up for a job in Indy, Rush offered him his dream job. He wants to teach and be able to do manual medicine. He'll be working with residents, thus staying in the academics. Plus, the Rush Rehab is planning to put up an alternative medicine clinic, wherein he can practice manipulations. On the other hand, he'll be in a private practice in Indy, which means he'll have to work long hours to meet the productivity demands. He would easily choose Rush over this. But the problem is that he has already signed a contract in Indy. So he was torn between honoring his contract and going after his dream job. With much reluctance, he chose to honor his word. In a way, I am glad that he did because this showed his integrity. I don't know if I could live with a man who cannot stand by his words. But I also feel sorry for him because I know how much he'd love to stay at Rush.

Happy Easter

2005-03-28T22:25:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, Vince and I went to the Chinese Bible Church at Oak Park. Vince's friend and former co-worker, Julie goes to church there. The service took two hours because it was both in English and Cantonese. According to Julie, the English and Cantonese services are usually separated. But since yesterday was Easter they combined the two services. There was a translator who was translating whatever was being said into Cantonese. At first, I felt a little lost because I could not understand the pastor because his voice was so low and was mumbling in his Chinese-accented English. Thankfully, there was another pastor who spoke louder. Pastor Raj gave a good sermon. At the end of the service, Julie and her husband Paul, together with their little girl Alana met up with us. Julie was starving and was craving for dimsum. Eventhough we just had dimsum last Wednesday, Vince and I decided to go with them.

At the restaurant, I had the grandest time watching Alana. She was so adorable. At two, she wanted to do everything on her own. "Ms. Independent," Paul called her. Vince and I had a great time talking to Julie and Paul, and watched this family interact. While we were eating, one of the waitresses was passing out the "taho" (I don't know what it's called in English or in Chinese, but it's the tofu drink that peddlers sell in the Philippines.) Paul asked what it was, and I said that it was taho. He seemed confused, so I asked if he spoke Tagalog. Paul didn't realize that I was Filipina. (Ngek. If you'd see me, you would say that I look like a typical Filipina --brown skin, dark eyes, black hair) So anyway, Julie(who is Chinese) said, "Yeah, she's Filipina. They are the opposite of us." Then she turned to Vince and me, "if you wonder what your kids are gonna look like, just look at Alana." That was so funny.

After lunch, Paul invited Vince and me to see the condo that he and Julie recently purchased in downtown. They live in the suburbs, and spend the weekends in the city. Their condo unit has a nice view of downtown buildings and is situated about two blocks away from the John Hancock tower. Restaurants and shops are at a walking distance. How I'd love to live there.

Today, the temperature dropped down to the high 50's and low 60's. Vince got home early, so I asked him to play tennis with me. I am still learning, so Vince ended up running after the ball. He did say I am getting better with my forehand. Now if I can just remember how to do the backhand while we're at play. I took beginner's lessons last year and I did well when we were learning the strokes, but once we started playing, I just couldn't remember how to execute those strokes. :)

I don't know why I totally suck at tennis. I just don't have the hand and eye coordination that is so important when playing this sport. I was an active child when I was a kid. In the afternoons after classes and after finishing my homeworks, I used to play tags, hide and seek, patintero and tinikling with my cousins(all boys) who lived in the same compound. I even played badminton. So I thought it would be easy to learn tennis. Boy, am I wrong! But, I won't give up. Someday, I'll just be whacking that ball like a real pro. Watch out, Lindsay Davenport! Hehehe.

Happy Birthday, My Love

2005-03-23T20:14:00.000-06:00

Today is Vince's birthday. I picked him up from the hospital and we went to Chinatown for dimsum.(Yeah, how romantic!) I told him I didn't have a gift for him. But I have a surprise for him that he will receive by the end of this year. I can't say any more details because he probably reads my blog.

I thank God for bringing Vince into this world and into my life. And I thank his parents for bringing him up the way they did. He loves his family and is very close with this siblings. Not a day will go by without him talking to his brothers, his sister or his nephews and nieces.

He has an appetite for learning. Sometimes I complain that he is always reading his medical books, but I do admire him for wanting to know more, for wanting to be the best doctor that he can be. He is dedicated not just to his own career, but to the whole residency program in which he is a chief resident. He worries about his co-residents' learning and always aims to improve the program for future residents.

I have never seen a more patient, more gentle and kinder man than him (well, maybe my dad and my brother, but they don't count 'cause they're my family). Sometimes I get so amazed by what he could put up with (me, included.) His job can be so frustrating, but I seldom hear him complain about it. He sincerely cares about his patients.

He is intelligent and funny. I love being able to talk to him about movies, books, and current events. And he can talk my ear off when he starts discussing X-files and Star Wars. He always makes me laugh with his antics. He is not afraid to make fun of himself. During his internship, his friends used to tease him for being so pale and for having long hair that they called him "Michael Jackson." So, when one of our friends had a party and broke out her karaoke mic, Vince sang "Thriller" with much gusto, complete with MJ trademark, high-pitch voice. It was hilarious.

These are only few of the qualities my loveable boyfriend has. He is no saint, and sometimes he drives me nuts, but I will always feel like I don't deserve him. He is much too good for me. :)

Lists

2005-03-22T15:49:00.000-06:00

Accomplishments for today:
1. Breakfast of oatmeal, skim milk and raisins.
2. 45 mins of Tae-Bo
3. 45 mins of strength training- abs and lower body
4. Cooked chillibeans for lunch.
5. Finished Tax

To Do for today:
1. Grocery shop
2. Sort out reading materials and throw away stuff.
3. Clean out desk
4. Get a car wash
5. Call Lea

Now let's see how much will be actually done today.

My Dream Abs

2005-03-19T11:40:00.000-06:00

I've been dreaming of nicely sculpted abs, not the six-pack kind that Janet Jackson has, but a flat, bulge-free set that I once had...uhmm maybe ten or so years ago. "5'3" tall and 100 pounds, what more do you ask? " some of my friends say. I am skinny, yes. But I am skinny fat. I don't know what my body fat percentage now, and I am afraid to find out. I know that I am not fit.

When I was in San Diego, I used to exercise consistently and work with a trainer. I didn't watch what I eat, but I didn't really pig out or stuff food in my face like there was no tomorrow. Since I moved here to Chicago, my lifestyle has become dormant. Don't get me wrong, I am not inherently lazy. My job entails me to walk, stand on my feet, and move around all day. I don't get short of breath doing all these through the entire 13 hours that I am at work, but at the end of the day the exhaustion consumes me. I always feel like I have no energy left to exercise during my days off.

The climate here in Chicago didn't help either. This past summer, I was able to haul my butt out of my apartment to walk by the lake or play tennis with Vince or Lea. But when winter came, I just hibernated, afraid to brave the snow. Ok, the gym is only five blocks away, but are you going to make me walk five blocks of snow just to get there? That's a lot of work!!! Uhmm, ok, maybe I am lazy. :)

I had a wake up call when I read Star's entry on being losyang (a woman with unkempt appearance). She hit the nail on that first paragraph that said "I don't want to be losyang in body." And to make matters worse, the other night, I tried to slip into one of my favorite jeans (the pair that made me look tall and slim) and realized that I had to suck my tummy in just so I could zip them. And when the zipper finally closed, I couldn't breathe comfortably. I felt like my circulation was getting cut off and I was starting to get lightheaded. Can you imagine if I passed out because of the tight pair of jeans? That would have been an embarrassment in the ED. Hehehe, dx: syncopal episode secondary to tight jeans.

Because of this, my dream of flat abs started to form. And how will I make this dream a reality? First I'll take baby steps: I'll pop in my trusted Tae-Bo video in my DVD player and start working out. I'll also make use of my dusty dumbbells for strength training. At least once a week, I'll unfurl my old yoga mat and do either yoga poses or Pilates mat. And when I gather enough strength, I'll dig out that forgotten Bally's membership card and walk those five blocks to the gym. I don't know how long it will take, but my dream abs will be mine. And I will once again fit into my favorite pair of jeans.

Spring, where are you?

2005-03-11T10:03:00.000-06:00

It snowed again yesterday. I can't wait to go out without donning a jacket or a coat. I miss my tank tops and my sandals. I yearn for the warm breeze, the ray of sunshine, and the smell of the ocean. Is it time to take my next vacation?

Musical on a Snowy Afternoon

2005-01-30T21:09:00.000-06:00

Jesus Christ Superstar

The afternoon started with an arguement between Vince and me on whether to take the bus or a cab. Since it was snowing, I tried to persuade him on taking the cab.The ever frugal one won, instead. So we took Bus 151 and got off Randolph. I was becoming annoyed, as we trudged two blocks of snowy street. We arrived at the theater soaking wet. "Will you listen to me, for once," I remember telling him as we made our way to our seats.

When the show started, my mood started to slowly lift up. Watching musicals is one of my most favorite leisures. There is something about the music and the story that moves me. It's different from watching a movie. The acting and the singing never fail to captivate me, no matter what musical it is that I watch. Snow or rain, I tried not to ruin this rare chance of pleasure.

This was my first time to watch Jesus Christ Superstar, and so was Vince's. Having been brought up as a Catholic, I didn't have the hard time following the story. But poor Vince, he was lost and had no idea what was going on until we talked about it after the show and compared it with the Passion. JCS is a rock opera by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyed Webber, that first intrigued the audience in 1971. It told the story of the last seven days in the life of Jesus, set in modern times as seen through the eyes of Judas (the disciple who betrayed him for 30 pieces of silver).

The actors who performed in this particular tour were great. Natalie Toro, who played the role of Mary Magdalene had an amazing voice. I have heard Lea Salonga sang "I Don't Know How To Love Him" from her Broadway CD. I am Lea's fan, but Natalie Toro's version of the song was more enchanting.

Eric Kunze, the actor who played Jesus had a wonderful voice, too. He did Marius in Les Mis opposite Lea Salonga and also played Chris in Miss Saigon, too.

Lawrence Clayton, the guy who played Judas got a standing ovation from the audience. He played Judas in a way that would make you symphatize with the guy who betrayed Jesus. I do symphatize with his character. Judas played an important role in Jesus's story. Without him, the plan of salvation would not follow through. How awful it is to be in his shoes. To be an instrument of God to save the whole world, yet in a very negative way. To feel the shame and disappointment in yourself for betraying the one who would save the world from its sins that you would hang yourself to escape all the torments.

After the show, Vince and I grabbed dinner at Potbelly's sandwhich a block away from the theater. The snow hasn't stopped falling, and about three inches thick have collected on the ground. I was in a better mood after the dinner, so we also stopped by Nordstrom Rack before heading home. Vince got a nice trench coat for a very good deal. I wasn't very luck, so I got out of the store empty-handed. (Lucky na rin, in a way)

It was getting late and the squall would not cease, so we decided to go back home. I wanted to take a cab, but by this time, all the cabs were taken. So we walked to the bus stop. I was becoming irritated again because we had to wait about 30-45 minutes for the bus to arrive. When we got in the bus, the bus was filled that we had to stand for a few stops. I was finally able to get a seat, but was so annoyed at the guy seating next to me who wouldn't stop talking loudly on his cell phone. I was so glad when he got off the bus. I tried to think happy thoughts so as to lift my dampened spirit and temper my sour mood, but as I took a whiff of the guy who sat on the empty seat, my heart immediately sank. I felt nauseated with the guy's body odor mixed with sweat, cologne, and curry. "haaay.... this is not my day," I thought to myself.

Vince and I arrived home barely speaking with each other. I blamed him for my crappy day when it was not his fault that it snowed, or that some people don't care about their seatmates when they yak loudly on the cell phone, or that some people prefer to suffocate other people with their scents. Of course I was angry that he didn't listen to me when I suggested that we took the cab to the theater. However, I felt a pang of guilt when I realized how childish and irrational I acted for such petty thing. Lesson for me to learn: Don't sweat the small stuff. Lesson for him to learn: Next time, listen to your girlfriend. :)

Back To Reality

2005-01-08T20:15:00.000-06:00

I got back from San Diego today. had a short but great time with my family. Vince came to San Diego to celebrate the New Year with me and my family. He had a wonderful Christmas with his own family. It was really nice of him to join me in San Diego when he could've just spent his entire vacation with his family. For that, I feel grateful.
Pictures at http://photos.yahoo.com/shellybeeens

Home for the New Year

2004-12-29T23:18:00.000-06:00

I am excited!!!! Going back to San Diego to celebrate the New Year with my family.

Christmas On My Own

2004-12-24T21:42:00.000-06:00

Tonight's the first Christmas Eve I would be spending alone. Vince is back in San Francisco with his family. I thought that I wouldn't feel so bored and lonely since I was supposed to work today. But the hospital cancelled me because my unit had only ten patients. And with five RNs it would have been overstaffed. They, first, put me on call; and Ate Caring, the Charge Nurse at night told me that I may be called in, but I wasn't. So I spent the whole day cleaning, packing for my trip to Cali, surfing on the net, reading blogs, reading magazines, reading books, watching part of a movie. Still I was bored.

I went for a walk to Vince's apartment to check if the book he was waiting for came in the mail today. I didn't find any packages in the lobby of the apartment, so I just went back home. The walk back home was long and cold. I almost wished I didn't go out of the house. But sometimes boredom makes me venture out and brave the cold. It finally hit me that winter is indeed here. I saw the gloomy days...weeks... months... ahead of me. How can I endure another winter here in Chicago??? The thought of going back to San Diego for ten days cheered me up a bit. Six more days, four more work days.

When I got home, I ate dinner, took a shower and got myself ready for bed. I was doing fine, until I realized that tonight's Christmas Eve and I am alone. I am used to spending Christmas Eve with family and/or friends. I can't say that I am lonely or sad. It just feels different. I hope that my family and friends are spending their Christmas with their loved ones and that they are happy. I hope that they appreciate the time they spend with each other. I hope that none of them will ever be alone on Christmas. And hopefully, I will never again be spending Christmas on my own.

2004-12-23T17:30:00.001-06:00

dinner at the Signature Room on the 95th floor of JH tower

2004-12-23T17:30:00.000-06:00

view of Chicago from 95th floor of John Hancock Tower

2004-12-23T17:28:00.000-06:00

fully decorated houses at Oak Park

Christmas in the City

2004-12-22T23:22:00.000-06:00

Because Vince will be in California on Christmas, he and I celebrated our Christmas tonight. We had a very nice and expensive dinner at the Signature Room on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Tower. The reviews we read for this restaurant were not very encouraging that I had second-thoughts of going. Vince convinced me that the people who gave bad reviews may have had bad nights and not due to the food or the service. So, I put on my red sweater top, black pants and shoes, painted my lips with gloss, grabbed my coat, scarf and mittens and reluctantly drove to the restaurant with Vince.

The elevator ride to the 95th floor was quick. We had to wait a little while to get a window table. The ambiance was indeed classy. I wished I wore something more special other than my red sweater and black slacks, but it was a cold night and I wouldn't sacrifice comfort for fashion. (hahaha, Vince would laugh if he read that) We did get our window table, but Vince was disappointed that we were given a table at the very corner of the restaurant. It was almost near the kitchen. We had the view of the Sears Tower and the Navy Pier. From our table, we could see the lights of decorated downtown buildings. It made me realize once again, how beautiful Chicago is.

The menu didn't sound very inviting. They had some salmon, bass, steak and others. The food was all right. I had the Shrimp Linguini and Vince had steak and mushrooms. To be honest, I've had better. The most delicious part of the dinner was the dessert. I loved the Creme Brulee. What creme brulee did I not love, anyway?

All together, I would say it was a nice dinner. The atmosphere of the restaurant was classy, romantic and almost magical. The food and service were good. I just felt that the waiters could try to be a little warmer.

After dinner, Vince and I drove to Oak Park to look at the houses with lights and Christmas decorations. There were only a few but we took pictures of the two houses that were fully decorated from their roofs down to the lawns. They were fun to look at.

When we got home, we opened up our presents for each other. I got Vince his wish. For months, Vince had been begging me to allow him to get an X-Box. I told him he shouldn't get one until he passed his boards. I meant his specialty board. But I always felt bad when he'd tell me, "Should I get an X-Box?" "Can I go to Ernie's place to play?" "Can I get an X-Box?" Ok, ok, I am tired of him telling me that. So I got him an X-Box. He's been a good boy all year, anyway. Now, I think we both should make rules on when to play this thing.

Vince gave me a Coach purse and a CD by ABBA. I think he's tired of me listening to my Mamma Mia soundtrack which he hates so much. He said he prefers the original Abba, not that he likes Abba, but if he had to listen to the songs, he'd rather listen to them than to the Mamma Mia cast. So he went to Best Buy and got me an Abba CD. The purse was bought with the help of our dear friend and shopping buddy, Notch. I am sure glad that Notch has great taste. :)

Pictures to come.

Christmas Shopping in Michigan City

2004-12-20T20:28:00.000-06:00

I am officially done with my Christmas shopping! Today, Lea and I headed to Michigan City, Indiana to the Premium Outlet. I was behind the wheel since Lea is a new driver and doesn't do much highway driving. I was grateful that it wasn't snowing on the road. I don't like driving in the snow. Of course, when we got to Michigan City, the place was covered with thick snow, and the road was barely plowed. I wish I brought a camera to take pictures of the houses covered in white. They were so beautiful, like out of a Christmas card or calendar. Lea and I couldn't help laughing at our silly selves for driving two hours to a snowy city to do our shopping.

After parking the car, we dashed to the visitor's area to get a map and a discount booklet. We stopped by the Wilson's Leather store first. Lea got a fanny pack for a mere 5 bucks. Way to go! We then headed to the gloves store ( I forgot the name) I got mittens, a neck pillow and ear muffs for Vince for less than 20 total. Lea and I then went to the Bombay store to look for a side table to match her new loveseat. She decided to buy it next time Ron comes with her. Then we went to the Vanity Fair store. I got sweaters for Ate Bay and Inang, and a nice outfit for my goddaughter, April. I also got some baby clothes for my friend's (Anne) new baby Hazel. Lea bought jackets for her skiing trip to Colorado. The store didn't sell ski pants, so we tried London Fog. I also needed a pair of ski pants, so I tried on a few. All the ski pants for women were long, so I suggested to try the youth size. We found some xl and l pairs to try on. And they fit. The best thing about it is that they're a lot cheaper than the adult size. I got mine for 12 bucks after discount was taken. Lea and I both couldn't believe our luck.

After we got our purchases, we drove back home, happy for the good deals we got. We were hungry, too so we stopped by Wendy's to get some chicken strips. As we were getting to the highway, a big semi-truck with thick snow on its roo,f sped past us. The thick snow blew onto my windshield. It seemed like an avalanche, I got so nervous that I didn't have the time to react. I just kept driving ever so slowly and used my windshield wiper to wipe off the snow. Lea said I should've honked at him. Oh well, it was too late by then.

We got home safely after that.

2004-12-02T22:57:00.000-06:00

This was taken by Grace.

2004-12-02T22:56:00.000-06:00

Taken by Bobby from ICU.

2004-12-02T22:55:00.000-06:00

Wendy was not ready.

2004-12-02T22:53:00.000-06:00

Adam, Wendy, Cielo, Grace, Me, Vince

2004-12-02T22:48:00.000-06:00

Picture from my unit's Christmas Party held at Via Venetto.

Chicago Symphony Orchestra

2004-12-02T22:38:00.000-06:00

Vince and I went to see the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. The symphony presented music by Haydn. Pinchas Zuckerman, the guest conductor also performed a violin concerto that I really enjoyed. It was interesting to know that Haydn composed the concerto for the violinist Luigi Tomasini, who used to work as a valet for Prince Esterhazy, Haydn's patron. Tomasini must have been really talented for the prince to notice him and send him off to study advanced violin and for Haydn to compose a concerto for him.

Mamma Mia!!!

2004-11-27T22:24:00.000-06:00

My girlfriends (Grace, Cielo, and Wendy) from work and I went out to see Mamma Mia, the musical inspired by Abba. This must be the most fun musical I have ever watched. Listening to Abba songs always remind me of my Uncle Eddie in the Philippines who introduced me to the group by recording their songs to a tape when I was about six. I remember listening to the tape and singing along to the music. Dancing Queen always cheered me up.

I own the soundtrack of the musical and I must say that seeing the musical in person is 100 times better. The voices of the actors from this production tour are way better than those of the original London cast. Besides, the soundtrack does not have all the songs. The plot may not be so engrossing, but I admire how the Abba songs were put together to make a story.

Field Museum trip

2004-11-19T20:29:00.000-06:00

I went to the Field Museum a few weeks ago to check out the Jackie Kennedy exhibit. I am a fan of her classic fashion style. Too bad it was not allowed to take photos of the exhibit. I love this mint green gown she wore and her coats were so elegant. I swear I was born in the wrong era.

Since I couldn't take pictures of Jackie's clothes. I just took pictures of the elephants and the dinasaur on the main floor of the museum. I love those elephants. :)

2004-11-19T10:19:00.000-06:00

The Field Museum Elephants

2004-11-19T10:17:00.000-06:00

The Field Museum dinosaur Sue
I like how the lighting made this picture look eerie. The woman looked scared, too.

Indianapolis

2004-11-13T22:35:00.000-06:00

I tagged along with Vince to go to Indianapolis for a job interview. Coming from Chicago, I'd say Indianapolis is a nice breath of fresh air...smaller, less crowded, less traffic, nicer people. Honestly, I wouldn't mind moving there if ever Vince got the job. Although, I have a few concerns. One is that where is Chinatown??? Virgil (Vince's and my friend who told Vince about the job), said it's three hours away. He was referring to the Chinatown here in Chicago. Second are there are Filipinos here.? Virgil said, "quite a few. In fact, I have gone to a Filipino party." Third is that, where are the malls? Uhmmm, there's the downtown shopping mall. Ok, I guess I wouldn't mind moving to Indianapolis.

2004-11-13T22:04:00.000-06:00

yummy pancakes

2004-11-13T22:03:00.000-06:00

church

2004-11-13T22:02:00.000-06:00

indianapolis at night

2004-11-13T22:01:00.000-06:00

vince and i

2004-11-13T21:57:00.000-06:00

with Virgil

2004-11-13T21:31:00.000-06:00

I don't know what this is called.

Happy Birthday Kuya

2004-11-09T21:32:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday to my favorite (and one and only) brother. I wish you all the happiness that you deserve.

Chinese Food Fiasco

2004-10-09T23:39:00.000-05:00

I introduced Lea to Furama's dimsum this afternoon. She seemed to enjoy the choices of food, and said she would bring Ron, her husband to try this place out. She was really enthusiastic about trying out different kinds of dimsum. Her only complaint was that she wanted some vegetables. Since we went on a Saturday, there were less choices of dimsum that were being passed out. On Sundays, Furama also has Chinese broccoli in their carts. Lea had mentioned that every time she orders Chinese broccoli dishes from Chinese restaurants, she'd always get the American broccoli. She'd always get disappointed for she really wanted those Chinese broccoli. So this time, we asked the waiter if he could bring us some Chinese broccoli. Lea explained that she wanted the Chinese broccoli and not the American broccoli. He asked us how we wanted it. Stir fry or something else. Lea and I both could barely understand the waiter; and he seemed annoyed at us, too. Before he left, we asked him again if he knew what we were talking about. I mentioned something about the broccoli looking like leaves and not trees. When the waiter brought the vegetable dish, lea and I both stared at it, and thought that it looked different. But we both agreed that it may be because it was stir-fried. As I was eating it I told Lea, this tastes like peapod leaves, but she didn't seem to care. She didn't know what peapod leaves were. After we filled our stomachs to our content, we asked for the bill. Much to our surprise, this Chinese broccoli cost us $11.00. Lea asked why it cost that much. The waiter said because it was peapod leaves. "What? We didn't ask for peapod leaves. We asked for Chinese broccoli" I asked Lea not to complain anymore. But Lea being the determined person that I know, insisted that the waiter made a mistake. So the waiter adjusted the price and we paid for the bill and left.

The last time I was at Furama's, I went with Notch and her friends. Vince could not come, but asked me to get him his favorite. I got the name wrong so the waiter brought me something else, when I tried to complain, all the waiters including the manager went to our table. I still ended up paying for the wrong dish. I swear the waiters must have remembered me. And now after this second fiasco, how will I ever be able to show my face to these people again? I guess it's time to look for another dimsum place. :)

Absence makes the heart grow fonder

2004-10-07T13:35:00.000-05:00

Vince went to Arizona last Tuesday for a Rehab Medicine convention. He won't be back till Sunday. It's been only two days, but I miss him already. Before I moved here to Chicago to be with Vince, our relationship had been a crazy, long-distance thing. We visited each other once in a while, but those visits were not enough. Thank God for technology, for without it, I don't think we'd have lasted together for four years. Late night phone calls, emails and AOL instant messages kept us close. For about a year and a half now, I have gotten used to living with him in the same city, seeing him everyday, eating dinner with him. I have learned more about him in this short span of time: his quirks, his Star Wars and Star Trek movie collections, his love for Hong Kong movies, his moods(yes he has moods.) Sure there were times when some of his habits annoyed me, but the more I learned about him, the more I grew in love with him. Now that we are once again separated by distance, I appreciate the times we've spent together even more. I can't wait for Sunday to come so I can give him a big hug.

Apple picking in Wisconsin

2004-09-26T16:04:00.000-05:00

"Hold the apple and weigh it in your hand, if it's heavy it means it's juicy. Gently twist on it, if it easily pulls out, it means it's ripe and ready," said Vince as if he was an expert in apple picking. I tried his technique on one big red apple. The shiny red skin glistens, calling me to pick it up and bite on it. (Now I know how Eve felt.) Vince and I got two big bags of the cortland variety. One bag will go to Ate Ermie. One will be divided and distributed among our friends.

The apple orchard was bustling with excited kids playing in an old firetruck. The musician was playing old songs, as people eat hotdogs and drink apple ciders. Ahhh, how simple life can be! After a lunch of hotdog and brat sandwhiches, Vince and I headed to the little store to get apple pie and some cookies. Then we headed back to the city to meet with some friends for dinner.

2004-09-26T16:03:00.000-05:00

Old firetruck

2004-09-26T16:01:00.000-05:00

Vince picking apples

A weekend of Chicago Architecture

2004-09-15T10:41:00.000-05:00

Vince and I did the touristy thing last weekend and went on a boat ride to learn more about Chicago building architecture. It was a very enjoyable experience. I was awed by the graceful beauty of Chicago, and for a moment was grateful to be living in this city. (Come winter, I'll be wishing I was back in San Diego. :) )

2004-09-15T10:36:00.000-05:00

The John Hancock Tower and other Chicago buildings

2004-09-15T10:35:00.000-05:00

Vince and the John Hancock Tower

2004-09-15T10:34:00.000-05:00

I think, this structure is called the Grand Ballroom, located at the Navy Pier