From Runways to Wild Ways

When I woke up last Thursday morning, I only have two goals in mind: first: get a glimpse of an episode Project Runway Season 5 and second: study Fundamental Skills in Nursing. Nevertheless, life has indeed its own surprises.
As I was preparing for my review session, my twin sister asked me to hurry up because we were about to go to San Teodoro with Papa. I immediately thought that it was a practical joke but as I saw my sister prepare her things in a panicky mode, I finally learned that she was really serious at all. So, I tried to prepare my things right then. However, I was in the car already when I realized that I have not taken a bath yet(oops, stinky mode!) then.
We arrived at the Feraren's residence in San Teodoro just in time for lunch. We were welcomed by our aunt (who was shocked to see us) and our grandparents. I wanted to be productive that day so I dedicated the rest of the day to studying, watching my fave teleseryes (Trudis Liit and Basahang Ginto) and yes, showering.
The next day was a blast! I visited the beach near our grandparents' residence together with Mara. I originally intended to watch the sunrise but the sun rose before we could open our eyes.
I was already preparing for another review session when our aunt invited us to take a glimpse at the newly built house beside 'Punta Beach.' It was roughly three years ago when Mara and I visited the place and we were overwhelmed by the drastic changes. Now that a British national named Peter owns a land strip near Punta Beach, a majestic beach house is already seen there. We were really amazed because the look of the house is practically one that we could only see in magazines. The appliances were very modern, the decorations were unique, and the caretakers were very warm.
It took some time before the Master of the Household got to see us. I rarely get the chance to chat with a British man so I got tounge-tied instead. Luckily, my aunt and sister did most of the talking for me. When Peter toured us to the house, he also allowed us to take pictures. Sadly though, we opted to go home early then because Peter badly needed some rest.
Although we were supposed to spend the rest of the weekend at San Teodoro, we had to go back to Calapan last Saturday since I got really feverish then. It took a lot of rest before I recovered but I was still suffering from a major headache when I watched 'Wildlife for Sale' on Sunday. I was really bothered because the said documentary showed how some animals were de-skinned to create stylish bags. Some are even killed heartlessly by humans. The worst part is that most endagered species in the country are now being sold like hotcakes. Well, I was not able to eat fish or meat after watching that documentary and until now, I'm still at odds with any meat.
The real highlight of this week is President Noynoy Aquino's SONA (State of the Nation Address). I was speechless for the most parts of President Aquino's SONA. He really tried exposed the anomalies of the previous administration then. What interests me the most is that I heard him lay out some plans for the country other than his anti-corruption campaign at last! Now, PNOY is slowly capturing the hearts of Filipinos from all walks of life. Hence, as he concludes his SONA in hopeful terms, I also end this blog post with lots of love.
Simply,
Maica Angelle

On Seams, Stressors and Scandals

Charice: 'the young Filipino hollywood sensation'

This week, the 18 year old 'Filipino International Singing Sensation' Charice Pempenco decided to undergo a dermatological treatment(or was it surgery?), 'The OC' star Adam Brody was caught on tape asking Kristen Stewart a.k.a. Bella Swan to quit acting if she cannot deal with all the fan obsession coming along her way. Lindsay Lohan got into jail, my 13 year old brother was caught smoking (disgusting and annoying!?!) and my NCLEX examination is nearing(anxiety to the highest level!!!). With all these juicy events coming our way, could life even get boring?

Anyway, as I was struggling through the week (with all the reviewing, working out and everything), I didn't really see all these events coming. Frankly, the fact that Charice underwent thermage and botox procedures is disturbing. She's so young for that! Otherwise, I don't think it's even necessary for her 'Glee' role. I mean, the show is one that honors diversity. If the storylines had spaces for an overweight black woman, a gay singer, a self- centered Jewish girl with an odd nose, a chastity queen who got impregnated, and other gleeks who had their own share of shameful experiences, how could it not make way for such a talented, young singer who has a wide face?

Brody and Kirsten in their movie 'In the Land of Women' together

On the other hand, when Adam Brody was asked if he enjoys being famous or if he just wants to become an actor a la Kristen Stewart, he had this to say:

"It's like, quit ... you don't need to be an actor, so it's like if it's that much of a problem ... there's the door."

Honestly, I have my two thumbs up for The OC's Seth Cohen for being so true. Stewart is enjoying her celebrity status right now. Who doesn't want all those millions of dollars, expensive wardrobes or hot boyfriends anyway? Hollywood does not revolve around her! She must stop complaining and start living her life to the fullest. That is what life is all about.

I also came across 'Project Runway Season 5' this week and I'm still at awe at the show. At first, I was watching it to get a glimpse of Tim Gunn but the designs really caught my eye. Now, I'm officially addicted to runway shows and everything that has to do with fashion. One thing I've found disturbing though is how Americans cannot seem to accept defeat. Please, American Idol wannabes claim that the judges don't know how to judge. The designers who got eliminated at Project Runway also acted the same way. Can't they realize that competitions are not all about winning?

my fave collection from Project Runway Season 5 Finale

Let's leave the Hollywood scandals for now and focus on the real world...

Today, I've heard the craziest news ever. Apparently, my little brother was caught smoking. My mom tried to admonish him but he does not seem bothered at all. I told him that smoking will make his skin dry and dull and if he continues with it, his lungs will eventually collapse. My mom also wanted him to get away from his 'tambay friends'. I wonder if everything will turn out well in the end.
Apparently, the drama does not end there. As I received a confirmation from CGFNS (Comission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools) this morning, I realized that I have lesser time for preparing. So, I promise to review to the max this upcoming week! Anyway, I don't want to see Adam Brody pointing his fingers at the door if ever I got tired from all this nursing stuff.

Photos copied from :
http://www.yourhotcelebrity.com/its-official-charice-pempengco-is-glad-to-be-on-glee/315

http://jake-weird.blogspot.com/2010/07/diablo-cody-interviews-adam-brody-at.html

http://www.bandelle.com/blog/2008/10/16/project-runway-finale-at-bryant-park/

Lovelots,
Maica Angelle

The Homecoming

Three weeks have already passed since I and my twin sister got here at Mindoro. In the not-so-distant past, we were the 'probinsyanas' trying to fit in to the larger world of Manila. Now, we are the 'balikbayans' finding our way back home. Truly, gone are the days when we were shopping at the most famous malls in the country, walking the streets of the flood-friendly Espana, and reviewing to the max! Our SRG (Sultan Review Group) days are already over. Thus, the self- studying moments for the NCLEX-RN(a.k.a. the Filipino Nurses' key to a brighter future) are finally here!

Reviewing at home is comparable to living life to the utmost. At long last, I can finally watch my fave television shows, workout, bond with my family, and sleep in my beloved room. I am now breathing the fresh air of Oriental Mindoro. I am definitely more at ease!

The comfort of staying at home practically has its own drawbacks. Nowadays, reviewing is more of a challenge for me. The unlimited internet connection and the cable access are practically some of the distractions that are invading parts of the time I usually alot for studying. On the other hand, realizing the amount of weight that I gained has taken its toll on my life. Hence, I now have to make way for dieting and exercising into my routines. There are times when I feel to lazy to grab my books and take a look at the mind- boggling questionnaires. However, I also know that all I need are three reasons to keep on going:

1. my family
2. the people who need me
3. God

Inasmuch as this review experience is already driving me crazy, (FYI, I have been reviewing for almost a year now) I also know that the knowledge and wisdom that I've gained throughout this experience are priceless.

Nursing is indeed a very noble profession. In fact, Filipino Nurses are currently rendering their services to some of the hospital institutions in the country for free just to acquire the most coveted skills. Some call this 'volunteerism' stupid. Additionally, the nurses in the country can also be considered as the modern-day maids. The only difference is that maids are provided with food, clothing and shelters while nurses are trying to 'budget' the alms they receive for the necessities of everyday living. Yet, this profession is among the most rewarding ones. Nurses are God's angels for the sick people, those who are always there to lend a helping hand to those in pain.

In a couple of months from now, I'll be taking one of the toughest exams in my life: the NCLEX-RN. I'm already working really hard for the right to become a 'USRN.' This challenge is not easy but if have God and my faith with me, I'll definitely get there.

Lovelots,
Maica Angelle

In a Nurse's Shoes

There are certain moments in our lives that are worth reminiscing. Those may be graduation, winning the lottery or simply watching our favorite television shows. Well, as for me, lots of memories may go unnoticed but one has definitely made its mark on my heart.
It was the eve of January 30, 2010. I was sleeping with my twin sister when I received the text that changed my life: 'Congrats. Pasado kayong dalawa pati si Katrina.' The message came from my aunt. It was 11:30 in the evening.
It took some time before I realized what the message meant. During that moment, the Philippine Regulatory Commission declared me and my twin sister as registered nurses in the country. What a 'Maalaala Mo Kaya' moment indeed!
I slept teary- eyed that night. I felt so blessed because God has finally answered my prayers. It was definitely the beginning of a new chapter in my life. My dreams were finally coming true.
But what happens when you are already living the dream? --- You either aim higher or feel unhappy. First of all, being a nurse is not my childhood dream at all. Believe me, there may be hundreds of thousands of Filipino Nursing Degree Holders out there who want to be in my shoes but I'm still silently hoping that I didn't opt for the nurse's shoes instead.
I wake up everyday wondering what things might have been if I had it my way. Yes, there is still this long road ahead of me but will my shoes make it?