FirstGiving - Your fundraising

Please take a look at the link below, and donate for a good cause!

FirstGiving - Your fundraising

Thank you in advance for talking the time to consider caring for these wonderful pets!

10th Annual Dog Walk

Come join the many doggie owners and/or doggie fans to support the IVHS (Inland Valley Human Society) & SPCA on May 21, 2011 from 7:30am to 12:30pm in San Dimas.

For more information, please see the following link: 10th Annual Dog Walk

Goldfishes

I know I have the typical set of goldfish, but there are often times where they just line themselves up in stillness. I got intrigued.

Hanging out with Amorina

FINALS WEEK!

Monday marked the beginning of Finals Week at school. The chaos has begun in my mind to start hitting the books seriously. My school books for the quarter almost look brand new (with the exception of the many page tabs I have skillfully planted on every assigned chapter in the beginning of January). I have set aside studying for my Computer Software final for now since I have all week to prepare for it. I am frantically trying to get myself prepared for the three possible topics that my crazy English teacher will choose. So far, I have had only succeeded with two of them – Android vs. iPhone and PC vs. Mac. My arguments are not quite the best, but it is a start. The other four topics will have to wait until the morning. My brain has literally turned into mush right now. I think it's time to get to that much advised rest that every student must take during this time of the school year.

The Puppy Dog Place

The Puppy Dog Place
If you're a proud puppy owner, or simply love dogs, you'll enjoy visiting The-Puppy-Dog-Place.com! There are a lot of tips and advice to help you raise a happy, healthy puppy. The site covers housebreaking, feeding, grooming, training, health care and much more. Tons of fun stuff for dog lovers too!

Mabel

Mabel shortly after we brought her home (April 2008)

I am just barely coping with the loss of my mother when my beloved bunny rabbit, Mabel, passed away about five and a half weeks ago.  Mabel held a special place in all of our hearts, especially my mom - her constant "companion" while she was at home.  I will truly miss my little monkey!


A poem I found on the L.A. County Animal Shelter that had a page on learning to cope with the death of a pet --> The Rainbow Bridge

My Mom

Mom at Redondo Beach - 1998

On Thursday, November 11, 2010, my mother passed away peacefully in her sleep during the early hours of the morning. The cause of her death is unknown, but as a family, we are content with that information. It was a sudden, but unexpected death. It was an end of a very long battle of numerous ailments and illnesses that she has encountered over the past two years. Since her broken hip shortly after Christmas 2008, Mom had been in and out of the hospital with infections, and with her most recent hospital visits for chronic heart failure and kidney failure. It had been two months where we as a family literally watched her "deteriorate." She had a life of many difficulties that I do not think anyone has ever encountered as she did. Mom was full of courage, strength, and an extremely great heart. Family has always been important to her, and she was always the first to offer help to any family member that needed it. She came to the United States, as a single parent, in 1972 to help my brother fulfill his dream to become a doctor. Mom had no close family, and only $200 in her pocket. The instant she set foot on U.S. grounds, she had found an apartment for my brother and herself, and a job working at a nursing facility as a tray person. She thrived for her future... working during the day, attending night school, and taking care of a family (which included a new husband and me). She worked hard to give my brother and myself everything that she never had growing up in the Philippines.

Therefore, as I have watched my mom over the past two years endure her health problems, I saw her become an angry and bitter person. She was not the mom that I was used to seeing in my lifetime until she came home from the hospital in late August. I think somewhere deep down inside she had found her peace with everything that she has been through. Mom became the person she used to be - the happy, loving mom. She celebrated her 73rd birthday as she felt everyone deserved - surrounded by the family that loves her. Mom was back to being the woman she used to... happy, cheerful, and full of life. That is how I will always remember her...

Amorina - one month old

New pics

I have a new baby niece!

Born today (8/18/10 @ 2:02 a.m.), Amorina Faith entered the world. She weighed in at 6 lbs, 4 oz and is 20 inches long!!! We're so happy, excited and blessed to have this bundle of joy here!

My grandniece, Cianna - 12.30.09

I was uploading some pics from the digi-cam, and came across this little video of Cianna. Such a cute baby!!!

Rob's OCD

I never realized Rob had any "quirks" until recently when I had a grip load of dollar bills in my wallet.... Watch :)

Just Being That Way

I am at a phase in my life right now where everything seems to catch up with me. The stresses of everyday life has begun to take its toll on me, and I feel lost.

All that has happened:
My mom's fall and hip break in December 2008, then another hospital stay for gastritis and a possible cancer scare at the start of this year

Rob losing his job because of Home Depot management's stupidity, then his dad's stroke February 2010

Unhappiness at work - I primarily do not feel challenged at work anymore, and don't feel like doing the same thing over and over again

My best friend, Jamie, going through the worst thing in her life with her pancreatitis getting really bad - worse than in 2006

So again, I say - I feel extremely lost. I definitely have the great support from Rob, but there are just sometimes where I just want to say SCREW Y'ALL - and just ball myself and cry.

Merry Christmas!!!

Absent-Minded Blogging

I’m currently sitting at a nearby eatery, having lunch. I had planned on finishing a “catch-up” blog (as I call it) that I started working on about a week ago. I’ve been scatterbrained since I sat down.  Rather than recall the previous week, I decided to just do my absent-minded blogging for right now. I’m lucky if I post this online, so here goes…

I’m doing some people watching as I gather my thoughts onto an open WP page. There are people walking by, some caught up in their conversations, others not paying attention to what is ahead of them. I see a mother and son sitting at the table directly in front of me. The son spent the entire 10 minutes since I've sat down complaining how his sandwich wasn’t done correctly, and has repeatedly asked his mother if they will re-do his sandwich in the way that he liked. Now, let me note that the son isn’t a little boy… he’s a TEENAGE boy. At the table to their left is a couple who looks like they are in their 50s, sitting in silence while they eat their meal. I wonder what they are both quietly thinking to themselves. I also see a young pregnant woman, sitting at a table to my right. She’s enjoying a light meal of bagel and cream cheese for lunch. She holds a piece of her bagel while she writes notes on the page of her "Mommy" book with a pen in her right hand. I see co-workers pass by me and wave hello as I don’t realize it happening since I’ve completely tuned out my audible surroundings.

Ugh, I wonder if people are doing the same thing about me - questioning my frantic typing (I am chatting online as well). Who knows? But oh, to be in the minds of others can be interesting sometimes…

My Personality Test

My 32nd Birthday 09.19.08

I had a wonderful birthday celebration spread out over two days. As you can see, my birthday was full of surprises and lots of fun. The celebration began the day before (09.18.08) with Rob surprising me with the birthday cake flowers, and my boss and co-workers giving me the best cupcakes I have ever had – DOTS Cupcakes in Pasadena. Then, my birthday fun continued on the day of my birthday (09.19.08) at the L.A. County Fair at Pomona Fairflex with Rob, my friend Brenda, Rob's best friend David, and his girlfriend Chelsea, Rob's sister Tricia and her husband, Alex.

As you can see, I had the time of my life! I had not been to the fair in 20 years, and it was well worth it. I want to thank everyone that helped me celebrate this special day. I definitely will cherish the memories.

2nd Anniversary - Disneyland

After a month and a half, I FINALLY have the Anniversary Trip pics somewhat organized in a slideshow... enjoy!

Amazing Natural Wonders

A nice slideshow from AOL ... click below ...

Explore Amazing Natural Wonders Across The USA With AOL Travel

Office Etiquette

This is a small thing (the blog, that is), but I happen to notice this about a couple of weeks ago. As I was walking down a hallway of offices, I heard like a 'clipping' sound. Now keep in mind, this hallway has about six offices (three on each side) with a couple of important management people in them. Anyway, as I hear this sound, I turned my head towards the 'clips' and noticed that one of our proposal managers was cutting her nails. At first, I thought that she probably was cutting her FINGERnails, but looking further, I saw her bent down on her chair cutting her TOEnails! That was just completely gross! I am not sure about you, but if you have the privacy of your office - PLEASE CLOSE YOUR DOORS! Enough said!

A Time to Reflect – Good-bye, 2007!

It is a little more than two weeks into 2008, and as I sit here and write this, I hold wishes that 2008 will be a positive adventure for me to encounter. My reflection on 2007 has shown me that it definitely had been an up & down experience that I truly will never forget in my lifetime. I definitely came about many challenges last year that has tested my strength and patience.

January started out pretty rough. I began the year at a job that pretty much led to many regrets. Looking after Megan was an everyday process that I did not think was a challenge since I adored that little girl. It was a job that, after much thought after everything happened that I definitely did not want to do. Again, I loved watching that little girl grow-up, especially because of her heart condition. I think that for me not wanting that job pretty much involved the fact of what I thought her father definitely was as a person vs. what he really is as a person. Ernie was very overbearing, AND very demanding… pretty much someone who had high goals in life but did not realize that he relied on others to do much of the hard work. His everyday presentations of himself made Ernie appear like a dedicated worker, but yet still a goofball. He provided for his family by working all hours of the day (or night), no matter what. However, my thinking is that when your own child is afraid of you the instant you walk through that front door that there is definitely something wrong. January also brought on my staph infection that put me in the hospital two weeks into the New Year. I wished that I could take back those two weeks of my life! I never could imagine that with my experience in the medical field that I would allow myself to let that infection get that bad. My clue that things were not OK was the fact that I had an abscess the size of a golf ball growing large everyday under my arm. Life lesson learned! The hospital stay was a traumatic experience as it is, and I am still not quite sure to this day why it would be. However, it definitely felt like it was the loneliest time of my life! I still feel anger towards myself, and the doctor's five-minute examination of my wound was the worst encounter that I never want to go through again! Anyway, the healing process has just begun for me mentally, but looking at the area where they drained the abscess, it is looking great. I occasionally still feel a bit of a pain, or twinge, because of scar tissue still in there. Nevertheless, that is something that will be OK for me to deal with…

February – unemployment for a couple of weeks – employment for a week – Rob's sister got married! :) As the healing process began, my patience with Megan's parents was starting to rattle me a bit. Considering that I mentioned to them that I could not return to work until I got medical clearance (to rule out any heart problems since I complained of chest pains when I got admitted into the hospital), Ernie and his wife (well, mostly Ernie) weren't exactly the most understanding people when it came to regards of my medical condition. In addition to all that had been going on with me, my mother had hurt her back and had been bed-ridden for TWO MONTHS! My poor dad spent those months caring for my mother – getting up to make her meals, help her to the bathroom, sit up in bed, etc. In between those times, while I was in the hospital, he helped bring and pick-up Rob at work and visited me at the hospital to bring me comfort items from home. Therefore, when I saw Ernie at my previous employment (Fortanasce), I explained to him my situation. The ungrateful bastard went through a 'boo-ha-ha' speech. "After everything I've done for you, this is how you treat me," is what he told me… OK, I am in the hospital for a week, you 'reprimand' me because YOUR WIFE was always late for work, and (he mentioned that to me while I was in the hospital)… Moreover, you are thinking is that because your feelings are hurt because of me putting my health and my family as a priority that you are going to let me go? Let me tell you this, I QUIT! However, the opportunity came about when Jamie's nurse at the time, Glenora, referred me to a business owner that ran a respiratory therapy-staffing agency. It was a job position that sounded great on paper – pay was great and I actually had the chance to work in a field that I enjoyed – healthcare and Marketing! Well, that is where it all stopped. This business owner was ridiculous! At first, I thought David at Fortanasce was awful? This person was the KING of worst employers that I have come across! I do not think this guy knew the meaning of respect! He treated me unfairly… Told me to do things without an explanation… Did not give the proper orientation in terms of protocol when it came to scheduling staff for the following month… AND while I was on the phone with a client began yelling at me because I did not do things the way he wanted it to be. Overall … the happiness of the month was Rob celebrating his 23rd birthday and his big sis, Tricia, got married! (It was a beautiful wedding, by the way!)

March came along with the anxiety of being unemployed (again). The restlessness of being at home, and not having the ability to have a steady income or pay the bills, was really starting to get to me – AND I MEAN BAD! I spent most of my days at home, and driving Rob to and from work. I did not really feel like doing anything fun because, again, money was limited. We relied on Rob's income to pay the bills and for me to get medications (thank you, baby!) I had one interview that rather gave me the run around, and finally finding out after two weeks that they had already hired someone. Then, there was that job interview as an administrative assistant where the HR lady literally slapped me in the face by telling me that she did not think that I had the experience to answer phones, schedule appointments, type! Good grief, SHE WAS A MORON!

The end of April FINALLY brought on the good news that I FINALLY got a job, a temp-to-hire position working as a Contract Assistant for an Engineering company in Pasadena. It involved mainly data entry for Contract Administrators creating projects for contracts received in their office. I was a bit apprehensive about this job since it was a bit out of my comfort zone. After working in healthcare for almost seven years, a desk job just inputting information into a computer for 8 hours a day can really take its toll on a person. It actually did after a couple of months, physically… I was so used to being active when working with patients that I definitely understand why someone sitting at a desk all day can have the neck and shoulder pains!

July was a difficult month for me. In one day, you could say that I lost a few things (well, they were not things). The stresses of everyday life began to take its toll on me that my first instinct was to take things out on Rob. I do not necessarily recall what set me off that Tuesday morning, but from that point… Something was triggered off in Rob to the point that he made the decision to move out of the house. Going through that day made it rather difficult for me that I was fuming from anger and in tears that I was sent home early because I was so upset. Of course to top it off, I found out that two of my precious cockatiels, Sally and Stewie, had flown away! That night was an interesting night… I was at Starbucks that night with Jamie, and the tears just could not stop flowing. I was going back and forth with wanting to try to work things out with Rob and wanting to break up with him at the moment. The anger inside built up so much that I even called my ex, Aaron, and told him that I needed to see him tonight. I did not care what my condition was that night… I was headed down to San Diego to see him. Nevertheless, because she's the greatest (and best) friend a girl can have in the world, Jamie followed me home after Starbucks to make sure I did my sulking at home.

Anyway, things have been worked out since then – Rob's back to living at home, but there have a few times in the past couple of months where he would have moved out because of my stupidity and some insecurities. I celebrated my 31st birthday in September – somewhat the way I wanted it… I had my Accounting Class on my birthday that I couldn't miss. However, I got to celebrate the b-day a day later at the Magnolia Lounge in Pasadena… Love that place! Food & drinks were awesome! :) Rob and I actually had our FIRST vacation outside of California together by going to Chicago. Both of us had never been there, and though it was limited for 3 days (and some snow that I actually enjoyed), we look forward to going back over there sometime during the summer to explore a lot more things over there! The holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve) have been celebrated with me sick – I just can't get rid of this darn cold!

Other than that, I'm definitely looking forward to 2008. It's an even year, so I hope that good things are to come for me this year! *Fingers Crossed*

Thanks for letting me share my thoughts and my world with all of you…

It's My Birthday

I'm 31 today, and I never could have imagined what this new year in my life can bring me. Though the celebration isn't going to be majorly exciting (I have work all day and school all night), I am truly grateful to be surrounded by the love of Rob, my family and my friends. I've reflected on how my life has completely changed over the past year. From the mistreatment that I received from a couple of previous employers... to my experience and ordeal in the hospital earlier this year... to the unemployment shortly after... followed by the job that has become a blessing and Rob moving out in July, I definitely can say it has been a life experience.

The challenges that I have encountered in the 30th year of my life has definitely affected me emotionally and mentally. The self-confidence for me to find a job that I most deserve has definitely affected me the most to the point that I hit my most low. The hospital was majorly traumatizing that even letting Rob hug me caused me to cry.

Nevertheless, putting aside the negativity of all that, including Rob moving out (which I am not completely ready to talk about), has given me something positive to look forward to. With a new job that I love, it has given the confidence to make the 31st year of my life a better one. I have taken everything that has occurred and have used it as a life lesson.

Bring it on!

My Mom's Birthday - Sept. 14

September 14 marked the day that my mom has lived 70 years on this world. To think how my mom has lived her life during the 30 years that I have been a part of hers truly has me cherish having her in my life. Mom and I have had our differences, but what mother-daughter relationship does not? I definitely know, that despite all the words said and all the emotions felt, my mom has always been there whenever I have needed her.

My mom has encountered so many challenges in her life. She moved here to the U.S. almost 35 years ago. She was a single mother traveling to foreign lands with an 11-year-old son, and not really having any sort of close family around to help her out. In 1988, she was diagnosed with brain cancer after complaints of dizziness and headaches. Her doctor found that she had a tumor the size of a golf ball sitting on the base of her head. In 1994, she was again diagnosed with cancer -- this time breast cancer on the left side -- after she found a lump.

So, for the 70 years of my mom's life, it has been a milestone for her. She has shown that she has the strength to overcome any challenges that life has given her. For that, my mother has truly become my hero.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOM! (A tribute a day later!)

A Three-Month Recap

Hmmm... I believe my last posting was in the first week in June... Well, a lot has happened since then, and I'm not sure where to begin....

Let's see.... In July, shortly after the holiday, Rob moved out of the house - which was for the best - because of some very personal issues that I shall not discuss publicly. That same day, I lost two of my special cockatiels - Sally and Stewie - because of them getting spooked and flying away. To this day, there are no signs of whether or not they are still around (or Bebe, who we lost last year).

What else has happened? I have gone back to school after taking about a year off to regroup and focus. Rob has also started school. Rob lost his Grandma Sally a couple of weeks ago.

Work has been great. It has had its ups & downs, as any job can have, but I definitely enjoying what it has had to offer.

Other than that, I am living everyday as I can. I have Rob, my family and my friends around me... What else can I ask for?

Next thing to look forward to? BIRTHDAY #31! :)

Extremely Hectic...

I know that it's been about three months since my last posting... There have been many things that have been going on that when I actually have the time to sit down to talk about it you will definitely have plenty to read about. So hang on tight... and I'll chat with ya in a bit! :)

Not yet engaged...

Though we are not 'officially' engaged, Rob & I went to Robbins Bros. during our anniversary to look at engagement rings. We wanted to get an idea of how much it would cost to get one to his likings. We narrowed it down to three (as you can see by the pictures). Rob and I really loved this ring overall together (I had one I liked and he had one that he liked), except this had a princess cut diamond in the center. Somehow it just seemed to 'fit' with the promise ring that Rob gave me back in November. Even with a round cut diamond, it looked right.

Anyway, the process of looking through the rings and picking it out was perfect. I can see why Robbins Bros. really is the "World's Biggest Engagement Ring Store." Their prices are reasonable, the staff was perfect, and we didn't have the pressure of getting the ring NOW. Our salesperson, Rose, was excellent and helpful. We went through every single display case, and looked at every single ring one-by-one. There were so many rings that just took my breath away!

Going to Robbins Bros. definitely gave us an idea of where to go to get the right ring. I know that when the time is right Rob will pick out the ring that he loves for me (with the help of the BFF, Jamie). I look forward to the day when Rob will ask me to become his wife.

Weekend Getaway - Saturday's Itinerary

Originally, Rob and I were planning to go to Disneyland. Unfortunately, despite setting the alarm clock at 7:30 AM, we ended staying in bed until 10:30 AM. But if you think about it, sleeping in just a little bit longer made it all worthwhile.

Our day began by having lunch at J.T. Schmidt's in Anaheim. It's a brewery/steakhouse with many choices of food. Rob and I both opted to have steak for lunch, with me having a New York Strip and Rob having a 16 oz Rib eye. The place is a bit pricey, but I love eating at this place!

After lunch, we headed off to Target. Our plans were to purchase some swimsuits to relax by the pool. Unfortunately, we didn't find anything to our liking, and it would cost me $25 alone just to purchase a top. Instead, we chose to purchase a few movies to watch in our hotel room.

When we returned to our room, we watched "Hannibal Rising." Good, but disturbing. We also purchased "Secret Window" for Rob to watch and "Because I Said So" for me. We had Chinese takeout delivered to our room.

After a quick bite to eat, we decided to go to the Block in Orange once again just to walk around... ate pretzels... then headed back to the room.

An end to a relaxing day!

Weekend Getaway - Friday's Itinerary

11:00 AM to 12:15 PM
Breakfast/Lunch at Coco's

Our day had a slow start, mainly because of me, but we headed off to Pasadena around 10:30 AM with plans to have breakfast/lunch at Denny's (off of Colorado). Unfortunately, Denny's was not to be because they shut down for remodeling. Instead, we headed off to Coco's in Arcadia (between Michillinda and Colorado). This added to our time, since we had to be at Amadeus Spa a half hour before our appointment time. When we arrived, we had a 10 minute wait until we could be seated. Our waitress was not the best waitress. She told us she would be with us in a minute, but we still waited for an additional 10 minutes. Then, she came and took our drink orders. It only took her about 5 minutes to come back, and take our food order. Well, a group of four arrived shortly after she took our drink order (about 10 minutes later), and they still managed to get their food first (considering we ordered our food right when they were settling into the booth). Our appetizers arrived at the same time as our meals. What's up with that? She offered to get me a refill for my coffee, but she returned without a coffee pot in hand - only to drop off our check. I left very disappointed.


1:00 PM to 3:45PM
Massage at Amadeus Spa & Salon for Rob and me

Let the relaxation begin! I have been looking forward to this massage since the day I booked it a month ago. A session of just letting all that tension and stress flow out of me was worth paying a lot of extra dollars. I never realized how much stress I was holding onto until the massage therapist started digging into my muscles. But it was worth it!



5:00 PM to 6:00PM
Sitting in traffic to get to Anaheim

I don't really have anything to say about this... I'm sure that when someone sees the word traffic they would understand. All I can say is that people are annoying, and there is just no courtesy when it comes to driving. That's it!


6:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Running errands and getting some Sonic food for dinner

Yeah, Rob and I ended up going to Wal-Mart when we got to Anaheim. I somehow managed to forget to pack my shoes (and he forgot his shoes), socks, and some other miscellaneous stuff because of the late start this morning. So, Rob and I went off to get these items. Then, we headed off to Sonic for dinner. I haven't had Sonic in such a long time, and it seems that this is the only one around that I know of in Los Angeles or Orange Counties. I haven't had Sonic since maybe when I was in Nashville. Yummy food!


9:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Corresponding with family and friends

I had the need to let family and friends know that Rob & I made it safely, and chatted a little bit online with Jamie and my cousin.


10:00 PM to 1:30 AM
Off to The Block in Orange to go see "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End"

Awesome movie! Totally better than the second one, and even funnier than the first. Definitely will see it again in the theaters!

Music - A quiz thing

So, here's how it works:
1. Open your library (iTunes, Winamp, Media Player, iPod, etc)
2. Put it on shuffle
3. Press play
4. For every question, type the song that's playing
5. When you go to a new question, press the next button

Opening Credits:
Toxic - Britney Spears

Waking up:
Call Me - Deborah Cox

First Day at School:
Mean Girls - Sugarland

Falling in Love:
Modern Day Drifter - Dierks Bentley

Fight Song:
Lay Down Your Love - 4 P.M. (For Positive Music)

Breaking Up:
How To Deal - Frankie J

Prom:
1999 - Prince

College Life:
Feel Good Inc - Gorillaz

Mental Breakdown:
In a Small Town - Kenny Chesney

Getting Back Together:
Can't Help Falling in Love - Andrea Bocelli

Wedding:
Cold Hands (Warm Heart) - Brendan Benson

Birth of a Child:
Don't Cry Out Loud - Diana DeGarmo

Final Battle:
Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen

Funeral Song:
Speed of Life - Sugarland

Ending credit:
Come a Little Closer - Dierks Bentley

Much needed getaway!

Rob and I are planning a much-needed getaway this upcoming weekend. We're not going far (just to Anaheim to spend the weekend at Disneyland and possibly California Adventure.) Anyway, I think all the stresses of me being unemployed and everything else going on have really gotten to me. I need the chance to unwind, and just try to spend as much time as I possibly can with Rob. Since I've started working again, I hardly get to just "spend time" with Rob these days. I miss the sleeping in time... the just having the whole day with him. It seems and feels "different" seeing him after we both get off work. I consider that my "me" time. So, I don't know... Weekend will be great just to have each other all to ourselves, I guess! Come back in a couple of days to hear about our trip and see the pics!

EVERYTHING’S GOING DOWN … Well, the servers at least

Wednesday was interesting enough… We spent our day just going through the everyday processes of dealing with our company’s contract administrators being completely stupid. I mean, for an everyday thing that seems somewhat repetitive, how is it that every single one of them seems to be so clueless in what is mandatory in submitting a project? I cannot recall a time when Elaine isn’t on the phone or emailing one of these idiotic CAs reminding them of the things that they do in an everyday basis. I can admit that I am not quite the perfect person when it comes to remembering a task (and I’m new at this position), but many of these CAs have been there for so many years! How is it that you can forget to upload a contract backup into the system when you know that it is required? Who is it that they’re going to blame when a certain project goes through the audit process? The CAs will be the ones, not the contract assistants who are setting up these projects. We cannot create or update contracts in Oracle until we verify the correct information. How do we know that the correct revenue budget is in the proper project? Sometimes $1 goes along way, especially if it’s a $6 million project for the U.S. Air Force!

I just had to get that off my chest considering that it’s a day-to-day thing. Anyway, projects are coming along. Approximately 11:00 A.M., everyone in our department is trying to process our contracts. If you’re saving information, the little status bars on the bottom right of the screen kind of does what I call a “ping pong” status (the bars just go back and forth with nothing happening). The system did not let you sign back on if you happened to sign off Oracle because the screen went blank. Apparently, the servers were down, and no one in the Tech Support department decided to give us a heads up! (They’re useless sometimes)

I am at my desk twiddling my thumbs away (literally). I literally cannot recall what I exactly did to let the time pass by. I think I might have organized my desk, read a little email, walked around the building a few times, ate a little snack, and waited until lunchtime. What did I do for lunch? Hmm… Can you tell how bored I was?

Luckily, the servers were back up shortly before two o’clock. Despite the server going down, we still managed to finish all of our projects. It definitely must have been a slow day if we managed to do that!

ALL BY MYSELF (and no, I’m not singing)

 

Like I stated on my Monday posting, my co-worker, Elaine, was having "one of those days. " So, she decided to call out sick on Tuesday morning. So guess what happened? I had to solve, fix, etc. all by myself in terms of every single person's problems -- well, so I thought… I didn't really have too many problems to try to resolve.

Problem #1 -- I received an email from a contract administrator. It says that her employees have been able to put charges into a particular project, and asked me to fix it. Don't you just love how these CAs say to "fix it," and never "Can you see what the problem is? " No appreciation at all! Anyway, I went to look at the project, and found that when I had set it up, I didn't change the status from "Unapproved" to "Approved." That was simple enough!

Problem #2 -- Another email from a CA. This one saying that her project manager wanted to place charges on two of the project's task, and asked me again to "fix it." I again reviewed the project, and found that all the tasks had open-end dates -- meaning doing charges and funds to these particular tasks. I email her back, and she tells me, "OK, I was just checking." Why couldn't she take the time to look it up herself? The time it took me to read that email, look at the project, ask the assistant manager to look at it (2nd opinion), go back to my desk to email her, and wait for her response, the CA could have done it herself! My goodness! Do these CAs have any brains? I'd get into it, but that should be another blog. Not really worth blogging about it!

Anyway, since I was by myself to create and update contracts, I just kind of jumped around. By the time I left work at 5:00 P.M., there was no open tickets remaining. I have to say that I did pretty well myself!

OH, SUCH A SLOW DAY (well, for me anyway)…

Monday was a major contrast to the hectic day of last Friday. Monday morning started out pretty much how a normal morning would start. Monday mornings are catch up for whatever projects and updates were leftover from last Friday. I think that my Friday disarray mirrored my fellow co-worker's Monday chaos.


I just went on with my routine… I completed one ticket after another… Having my minor little detail questions answered here and there. Everything bombarded my poor co-worker left and right. If it was not a project she was having problems with, there was something going on in our department. If it was not coming from our department, she was getting phone calls from someone in our company's different divisions/organizations. Poor Elaine… It was one of those days where you think that your day will be easy (like I did last Friday), and everything and everyone becomes a problem that you have to drop everything to fix it! Every time she attempted to sit at her desk to start working on a project Elaine was taken away to do something else.


All that said… There really isn't much else to say. It definitely was a slow day! The sign was when I returned shortly after lunch, I had a total of 10 projects completed by 2:00 PM. I spent a remainder of that time walking around the building, sitting at my desk hitting the "Refresh" button on the browser in hopes of something coming in, and organizing my desk to my liking!


Can you tell I get bored easily?

Friday Mayhem

How is it that one simple little task that a person does every single day cause so much trouble? Well, let me tell you one thing… If you were a fly on the wall that day, you definitely would be able to answer that question.

My day -- actually, my morning -- started out pretty well. I drove to work with ease… It was payday *cha-ching*… In addition, I was planning to go with the flow of things. THEN I WALKED INTO WORK! I went through my usual morning routine -- turned on my computer, got my desk ready for work, put my personal things away, and got my breakfast and morning coffee. Once I got settled, I logged onto Outlook to read my e-mail, which I always do to see if there were any project updates that I needed to do right away. My attitude was, “Why bother considering no one would be sending me anything to work with?” I set aside that thought, and of course, I definitely found something in the email!

Email:
SUBJECT: Project # (whatever it was - you wouldn’t understand it)
BODY: Project such and such had its ticket closed out, and not in Oracle (our projects and contracts database). Please fix it!

So, I was thinking that this should be easy enough considering that it does not take that long to create a new project and contract into a database. Geez, I was definitely wrong about that! Everything that you could possibly think that could go wrong definitely did… Prior to setting up a project, I normally go through all the information, and highlight “key” items that needs inputting into Oracle. Well, going through my “highlighting” process, I found that there was a little mix up with the prime and end clients. Considering that this project was an “Intercompany” contract (a project funded by our own company), I had to make sure that everything was done carefully. The contract administrator had placed our company’s name in the end client. The norm is when dealing with an Intercompany contract, we are always the prime client. [Let me explain prime and end clients -- the prime client is the company that holds the contract, and funds the services provided; the end client is the company who receives the services provided for the particular project.] The CA and I agreed with the definition of the prime and end clients, but which category the client should be in became a disagreement. So, I discussed it with one of our CAs in our department. She clarified what I had stated above, but told me to discuss it with the head of our billing department. I emailed her, with a copy of the contract attached, and she clarified my thought. Anyway, I was right… He was wrong… He made the correction… Easy enough, right? WRONG!!!!

Another problem (same project) comes along. My thought process was to set up the project, and close out the ticket once he made the corrections. Here is where my mistake came along… As I was setting up the project, I did not realize that I had setup everything with the old information. So, everything that I had tried to make clear for an hour and half all went to waste! Because of this blunder, I had to close out the project, and recreate a new one since Oracle is not friendly to those who make little mistakes like that.

Anyway, as I was starting over (for the second time), I came to realize that the customer database contained 225 different addresses for our company. To find out the address, I went back to the contract to figure out which client numbers to choose. I could not find the address at all! So, I called the CA to see if he could help me out… He was of no help at all! I just picked the closest thing I could get, and compared the numbers to the listing that we have for reference.

Overall,… this project took me FOUR HOURS to work on! Oh, so frustrating…

To compensate for such a hectic morning, though, the day went on slow. We did not really get that many projects to update or create. The Contracts Assistant that I work with leaves at 3:00 every Friday afternoon. So, she told me to go home early since there was not anything left to do. Me like it!

Rob and I went out for dinner, and played pool at 4th Dimensions (kind of like a belated “We met a year ago” kind of anniversary outing / “I had a bad day, and need a drink” kind of fun.) It was an end to a very interesting and overwhelming day (and week).

So far behind...

I've got stories to tell about my experiences at work over the last few days, but I've gotten very overwhelmed in other things that I haven't had the chance to sit down to share my thoughts. I'm working on it, though... I should have last Friday's (5/11/07) experience posted in a little bit, with more on the rest of this week to follow...

A year gone by...

...and I never imagined that my life would be so filled with the love I have had from my boyfriend this past year. Rob and I met a year ago last Saturday, and I cannot express how much Rob has meant to me. One year ago, we had an instant attraction that I never could have imagined that would have gone beyond that first meeting. At the time, my life was filled with lots of insecurity, low self-esteem, and a fear of letting someone know who I truly am. I was also "letting go" of someone who felt like dead weight to me.

In the year, it has been up & down. Rob has been there for me no matter how tough it got (read previous posts). I never imagined that I could find someone that I could spend my life with forever. Today, I really wouldn't know what I would do if Rob wasn't in my life. He is my rock... my soul... my love...

Another week completed...

I am beginning to get into my own thing at work... I've managed to survive doing this job with out being overwhelmed with the responsibilities that come with the job. I'm actually enjoying myself. My fellow co-workers in the department have been excellent to work with, and very helpful when it seems like I've asked them the same questions 100 times in 5 minutes. I have not quite ventured out in terms of getting to know others at work (it seems there that each section of cubicles is a new realm that only those inside live in). The commute to and from work still hasn't gotten to me, but I'm still trying to figure out alternative routes. I think I may have figured one out going in one direction, but still playing around with the other direction.

Other than the little scare I had yesterday afternoon ... I was working on creating a new project. It was around 3:30 in the afternoon, so I was getting tired. As I was typing up the project, I was not quite paying attention as to how I was working on the project. I kept thinking to myself that I had already created it, so I closed out what I was working on to search for it. Didn't realize that I had already saved the work. So when I went back to search for the template I needed, the already saved project came up. It scared the heck out of me because I thought I erased the template. Asked one of the girls to see if she could help me fix it, and we came to realize that I had changed the project name to the title of the template.... I am doing well. I have adjusted... I have found a job that has made me happy -- and a lot of money ;)

End-of-the-week thoughts...

OK, well, I have completed two and half days of work at my new job! I have to say that I actually survived the experience. I never thought that this job would become so easily for me. There is definitely a lot of things and information for me to learn and understand in terms of the job, especially since it requires a lot of attention-to-detail. The position deals with creating, modifying and closing out contracts... If you miss one tiny, little detain... Put in one wrong number... It will mess up everything involved and cause the company a lot of money!

Going into the job, I really was not nervous... I think that the only thing that freaked me out the most was trying to figure out the best commute to work without trying to kill anybody (I do not do fairly well sitting in traffic). I found a route that suited me for now, so we will see how long it will take me to change my route again... Anyway, I think I have just anticipated my expectations of what my responsibilities were for this job. I was more relieved with FINALLY having a job to go to everyday... Being unemployed for so long was beginning to get to me A LOT (see my last post). As I ended my day on Friday, my manager told me how she and everyone on my team were impressed by how well I was doing and how quick I was picking up the process. Therefore, that was a lot of weight of my shoulders for me! (in addition, a boost in confidence)

Therefore, I am looking forward to getting a decent income... To getting out of the house... and entering the workforce again! It is different from what I have been used to doing for the last seven years, but I think I am going like doing this a lot!

This might be it...!

...I'm not really getting my hopes up, but I've got a phone interview on Monday for an engineering company in Pasadena... If things go well, I may possibly start on Wednesday. PLEASE KEEP YOUR FINGERS CROSSED! :)

The frustrations of finding a job...

So, here I am... STILL looking for a job! It's been two and a half months since I walked out on that ridiculous job in Gardena. I've had several job interviews, but no takers! The problem is, with all the talent & experience that I've maintained throughout the years, going from one industry to another makes it difficult. I've been attempting to make that transition from healthcare to whatever else is out there, and no one seems to think that I have the capability to do the job. The last place I interviewed at literally "slapped me in the face" because she didn't think that I had enough office experience. Well, if she READ my resume, she will see that a majority of my work has been in an office environment. It seems that people don't see how I am an all-around worker... I've basically worked in every department / area in the places that I've worked at. It seems that the lady didn't think that I had enough experience in answering phones? Come on, I've done that for so long.... How difficult is it to answer calls? To schedule appointments & meetings? To enter information into a computer? To fax a document? To photocopy a piece of paper?!? Oh, my!

Sebastian naps

Despite all the chaos going on (with birds 'fighting' for territory & the TV blaring in the background), Sebastian still managed to squeeze in his afternoon nap... I wish I could say the same for me!

FRIENDS

Here is a lovely poem I found online...

A friend is someone we turn to

when our spirits need a lift.

A friend is someone we treasure

for our friendship is a gift.

A friend is someone who fills our lives

with beauty, joy, and grace.

And makes the whole world we live in

a better and happier place.

- Jean Kyler McManus -

I need a job!

It has been about two and half weeks since I quit my job from that registry office (I am sure all of you I have spoken to already heard... Those who have not, IM me... It is a long story). I had taken about a week or so where I didn't really want the job hunt to begin - just because I wanted to have some "me" time to rejuvenate myself (especially with all that's happened over the last couple months). I have enjoyed that time, BUT I am really starting to get that itch to go back to work. I want to have a normal routine again! *Ok... I got that out of my system!*!*
I never realized how I took having a job for granted. In the last four years or so, I have to admit that I got stuck into a very repetitive routine -- wake up, go to work, do the work, leave work, go home, sleep (and starting all over again). This completely has thrown me back into reality, especially since the $$ is starting to dwindle down and the hospital bills are starting to arrive in the mail.

Anyway, I started the job hunt over the weekend.... mailed/e-mailed/faxed my résumé to a bunch of places.... IN ADDITION, I am keeping my fingers crossed because I have got three interviews scheduled for this week! So, please pray (or whatever it is that suits you) that I get something, and I am back out in the work field!

Stewie sings

The newest edition of the family joined us back in December 2006. He was still a baby when we got him, as he would often cry (rather than do a bird chirp type that cockatiels do). So, it amazed me that the little guy has learned to sing (quite like how Bella used to do -- *see my blog "Bella & 'Fireflies'" posted in October 2006*). Here he is "singing" a duet with Rob.

The greatest boyfriend...

I cannot imagine what life has been like for my boyfriend over the last couple of weeks. He’s definitely had it rough as a result of my hospital stay, as well as finding out that his cousin was stabbed 15 times (he’s OK, though). I know that living with me over the past couple of weeks has not been easy. My hospital stay has affected me both physically and mentally. I do not have too many limitations as far as usage of my arm, but I do fatigue very easily because of non-movement while in the hospital. As far as mentally, I have taken it so hard. It has gotten to the point where I just wish that all of this was over, and that I could get back to living a normal life. I have been angry… I have been sad… I have been depressed… My moods often use Rob as a punching bag.

On the upside, when the moods have not kicked in, he has made sure that I have taken my medications… Prepares my meals for me (even though I am more than capable of doing it)… He has even helped me take a bath this evening!

Words often cannot describe how much I have appreciated all of this. There have been times where I have felt that I have not told him that I appreciate and love everything that he has done for me. Therefore, I am letting him and everyone know… THANK YOU sincerely! I love you, Rob! I am grateful for having you in my life!

A big ordeal...

Rather than call every single person on my “Contacts” list, I figured I would minimize the trouble (and the cell phone bill) by sharing my news on this blog… I was in the hospital for five days (since last Friday) because of an abscess [a pus-filled cavity resulting from inflammation and usually caused by a bacterial infection (from Encarta Dictionary)] that developed under my left armpit. This abscess started out two Saturdays ago as a swollen sweat gland that I accidentally “nicked” while in the shower, and resulted into an infected hair follicle. It did not start out too bad, and it was one of those things where I thought it might “just go away.” However, as the days went by, the area began to get bigger and the pain began to radiate to the point where I could not sleep comfortably at night. I had trouble moving my arm in any motion. There was also bad cellulitis, which is an inflammation of tissues beneath the skin [Encarta], around the infected area and bicep/triceps area. By Thursday, I was literally trying to find one position where I could sleep comfortably, as well as not making any movements that would bring on the pain. I also was having slight chest pains and headaches. At first, I thought that I was having a bad side effect from the birth control I was taking, but then again, why would I be having it now? Therefore, when I woke up Friday morning with excruciating pain that practically had me in tears, I made an appointment with one of my doctors. She clarified what I had stated earlier, and gave me antibiotics to clear up my infection. The pain was tolerable enough that I was able to have lunch at Denny’s with Rob and go to the pharmacy to get my medications. When Rob and I finally got home doing what we were doing, sitting on the couch became unbearable. I was back to trying to find a position for my arm so that it did not hurt too much. I was not comfortable sitting up… I was not comfortable lying down… A pillow under the arm made it worst… No pillow under the arm made it doubly worst. Therefore, Rob had me go upstairs to try to rest. As my doctor told me, give it some time… If I did not feel better by Monday, she recommended I see an internist. Well, by 10:30pm that Friday night, I was lying in bed with the chest pains AGAIN! They seem to worsen in any kind of position I was in, regardless of sitting, standing or lying down. Therefore, here we were… Friday night @ 11:00pm… My dad and Rob take me to the emergency room at Queen of the Valley Hospital in West Covina (btw… not one of the best hospitals, but that is a different blog). I’m having chest pains, I’ve got an abscess on my the size of a golf ball, and I’m in a lot of pain. Luckily, I saw a sign in the ER that said, “If you are experiencing chest pains or severe distress, please notify a staff member immediately.” I was in with a nurse in 10 minutes (wish I say that when my father went to the hospital back in November, but again, a different blog). When they were doing the screening, my blood pressure was 118/98, and blood sugar was 353. Not a good sign! I was given an EKG. I believe it did not come out so good since they immediately brought me back to a room, and was automatically hooked up to a heart monitor. The next couple of hours were rather interesting. Before I get into details, can I just say one thing? WOW is morphine interesting! OK, I will get into that in a minute. I had never been poked or prodded so much in my life! The nurse tried to get the pick line on me, but did not succeed in trying to find a vein. They tried twice, and oh, boy! I was not too happy about. A respiratory therapist came in to check my blood glass, and they had trouble finding a brachial pulse, so they went for the radial. Not comfortable to get a needle and blood draw around the area. Oh, and for my favorite part… DRAINING THE ABSCESS! They gave me Benadryl for the itching from the cellulitis… They gave me morphine for the “pain.” The instant they ran the morphine in my line I was out cold! Talk about a lightweight, huh? Anyway, that fun did not last too long because they got the local anesthesia on the abscess and drained that baby out! Oh, if you were there, you would have heard me scream like there was no tomorrow! The doctor and nurse that were working on that were great! The nurse even told me that it was OK for me to scream! Anyway, I was told that they took out about 50cc of pus. That is about 3 tablespoons of that stuff! They took it in for a wound culture, and found that I had a staph (Staphylococcus Aureus) infection. Therefore, I was automatically put on IV and antibiotics. The MD that admitted me said that there are no problems with my heart. My sugars are under control. I still have to change the dressing every day for my wound. I have a couple of follow-ups with the doctors next week. Anyway, other than a few sleepless nights, because of my fellow hospital roommates and hospital staff poking and prodding at me, I am glad to say that I am happy to be home, and sleeping in my own bed! It was tough week for me – physically & mentally – but I am moving forward to the best! So, if you were wondering what is being going on…? Now you know the story!

A reflection...

As I look back at 2006, I have come to realize that I have learned a lot from my many life experiences crossing my path. I have had some ups & downs that have allowed many changes help me "grow" into the next steps of my life. I celebrated my 30th birthday... I had to say goodbye to those who held a special place in my heart... I have looked back on my accomplishments and achievements.... I have welcomed a new love in my life.

I cannot clearly recall where my life was at around this same time last year. I know that I was looking at letting go of many things that I felt was bringing me down. At the time, I was reaching a crossroad in my career... I was at the end of the road with a teeter-totter relationship of four years.... IN ADDITION, I was at wit's ends with a long-time friend.

The keyword that was necessary for me to move on was "change." I was stuck at a job that was going nowhere -- no appreciation -- and it definitely was not enjoyable. My relationship with Aaron was not going anywhere until we simultaneously agreed that our individual goals came first. My friendship with Elizabeth came where the balance scale leaned towards her needs rather than it been even.

Therefore, as 2007 begins, I have learned to fall in love and allow someone to love me again. Rob means so much to me, and holds a special place in my heart... Yes, there have been times where I have probably gotten on his nerves (and vice versa), but he has taught me many things when fear, insecurity, and other feelings have overwhelmed me. I have welcomed the adjustments in my life with open arms. My job has taught me, though it has been a shock to my everyday life (as you all know), a great deal of patience... to get in touch with my inner child... and to just have fun! As for my family & friends, things are not always a one-way street. You never know when you feel so alone when those that you NEED around you are not there.

Rose Parade floats -- 2006

Rob & I had an opportunity on Friday (12/29) to see some last minute details done on a few of the Rose Parade floats out in Duarte, CA. Some of the cities involved that we could remember were Palmdale, Duarte, Ontario, and Oklahoma City. Despite all the scaffolding, each float was a work of art. One of my favorites is the float with butterflies... On it, there will be four waterfalls. Volunteers told us that the float, in full extension, would be at approximately 36 feet high (one of the highest in parade history). So, when you watch the parade, keep a look out for some of these! :)

Season's Greetings!

It's Christmas eve... All the shopping has been completed... The presents have been wrapped... Things are starting to calm down in our household as our family gathers together to celebrate this holiday... So, I wanted to wish everyone out there a

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

So, cherish this time with your family and friends... And enjoy the season!!!

A little bit of something...

Look what I got over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend from my boyfriend, Rob.... It's not quite an engagement ring... It's a promise ring! So, by this time next year, I will be engaged. :) It's a step forward in our relationship - which has had it's ups & downs over the months. It may seem like we're rushing things, but just remember... It is just a promise ring. I definitely am looking to the positve aspect of things to come... :)

Snyder Family's Annual Halloween Party

Jamie and her family held their annual Halloween party at Tony & Heather's house in Glendora by hosting a housewarming party as well. As you can tell I didn't go picture crazy this year... But here are some of the pics that I did take... :)

Rob dressed up as a 'Covenant Tyrant'

Pam as a "Baby Girl"... Think she's got the drink confused here! ;)

Jamie (Helle's Belle) & me (Midnight Priestess)

Beautifully stated...

I received the following as an email from my best friend, Jamie... Thought I'd share!

As we grow up, we learn that even the one person that wasn't supposed to ever let you down probably will.

You will have your heart broken probably more than once and it's harder every time. You'll break hearts too, so remember how it felt when yours was broken.

You'll fight with your best friend.

You'll blame a new love for things an old one did.

You'll cry because time is passing too fast, and you'll eventually lose someone you love.

So take too many pictures, laugh too much, and love like you've never been hurt because every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you'll never get back.

A Family Visit

I haven't seen my cousin and her family from Palmdale in six months. I took a few pics of her kids... One of them is my nephew, Logan, dressing up as a doctor. Isn't he adorable?

Dance Dance Revolution

My cousin's 3-year-old, Logan, wanted to try out DDR -- just like everyone else... Here's a video clip of him trying it out!

Bella & "Fireflies"

My bird, Bella, seems to be a big country fan -- in particular, Faith Hill. She seems to enjoy singing to Faith Hill's "Fireflies" whenever she hears it. Here's an example...

Megan and shoes

Megan has this sudden fascination with feet and/or shoes... Take a look and see what she does with my feet.

Megan's Day

Here are the five stages of Megan's afternoon... (From from left to right) She went from having a pouty face... to a crying face... to a tantrum... to getting a timeout.... and finally falling sleep... Sad, isn't it?

Megan pictures

I wanted to share some of the pictures I had taken of Megan since I started babysitting her! :) 

Megan in a whirlwind...

Here's Megan getting her afternoon workout by playing "I'm gonna get Marissa" by running around the coffee table!

Yahoo! Time Capsule

Yahoo! has started a time capsule to show future generations what our world and lives were like up until 2006. So, between now and November 8, Yahoo! would like everyone to contribute their pictures, sounds, videos, writings, and drawings to the time capsule. Anything contributed will be used as historical data, and will be placed in the Smithsonian Folkways Recordings in Washington, D.C. In addition, Yahoo! will ask you to choose from seven organizations so that they can donate $100,000. The following organizations are:

• World Wildlife Fund (climate change)
• International Rescue Committee (refugees)
• Grameen Foundation (poverty -- microfinance)
• Unicef (basic education & gender equality)
• One.org (health -- AIDS)
• Seeds of Peace (peace)
• International Child Art Foundation (visual arts)
  
  

So, please visit the website below and contribute to this time capsule!
http://timecapsule.yahoo.com/capsule.php

Everyday changes...

I recently left my job of almost five years to try "experiencing something new." I am currently helping a friend of mine start his fitness-training center over the next few months or so. In the meantime, I have offered my babysitting services him and his wife since they are unable to have their little girl in daycare because of her heart condition (doctor's orders). This definitely is a different experience for me to go through. I am adjusting from a job interacting with 30+ people a day to spending about eight hours daily to watch a very active 19-month-old baby girl. It is definitely a shock to one's everyday life. I absolutely love what I am doing, but my people interaction skills have changed. I have the "Jack's Big Music Show" (on Noggin) theme song running through my head day and night. My brain used to be concerned about getting progress reports and treatment plans sent out to doctors' offices or making sure a patient was progressing properly in their rehab program. Oh, it is a shock, but I am getting used to it...

Another change that I am going through is that my boyfriend and I have decided to move in together. It has been an adjustment dating somebody new, especially since I spent so many months being independently single. He is not moving in until sometime in January or so, but I have been spending a lot of time with him at night. It definitely is an adjustment when he is the last person I see before I sleep, and the first one I see when I wake up. I have had some difficulty trying to share my space, but I am trying to adapt. I have needed some time on my own to figure things out. I definitely am not regretting any of the decisions I have made over the last few months, but it is something I will get used to. I know it takes time, but it is definitely frustrating.

All I ask is that my friends do not forget me when they are in the outside world.... Drop me a line every occasionally!

A weekend getaway...

This last weekend, my boyfriend & I spent a brief getaway from family and friends. It was a much-needed time for just the two of us. Since we have started dating, it has literally been a whirlwind time. We never really had our first official date until Saturday because of busy schedules and many changes in our lives. Therefore, Rob & I decided just to spend some time hanging out in Pasadena. We went out for lunch at The Yardhouse in Paseo Colorado, and then followed that with a movie. We saw Jet Li’s “Fearless.” If you are a fan of Jet Li’s, this is a good movie to watch. Just make sure you enjoy subtitles since the entire movie was spoken in Chinese. Other than that, a majority of our time was just spent having some much needed quality time together without the interruption of family or friends bothering us.

Anyway, I would say that we had lots of fun together. I look forward to having many more of these types of things in the future. We both can say that we returned home a lot more relaxed and rested than any other weekend we have had together! :)

30-years-old and counting...

It has been a week since I celebrated my 30th birthday at Disneyland last Tuesday...

I have not quite reached the "I'm freaking out 'cuz I'm 30" stage yet, but I'm quite surprised that it didn't quite overwhelm me like I thought it would. I think that I accepted where my life has taken me so far, even before the thought of the 'big three-O' ever crossed my mind. I did make a few goals for myself a decade ago of things I would like to have accomplished by the time I turned 30. They included pursuing my graduate degree (which will be completed over the next few months), becoming a world traveler (even if it meant spending a few weeks in Europe), falling in love... Being in love... Having someone to love... Being loved in return (I love Rob!), and just being content with what life and God had to give me. I know that I am not quite married with kids yet, or have stepped off a plane and experience the New York life as a single woman.... However, those little things can always be accomplished someday...!

All I can say is that I am happy with the way things are going so far... I am surrounded by family, friends, and my true love.... What else can I ask for? :)

My last days at the Fort...

It's been about a week & a half since I spent my last day working at Fortanasce & Associates. It has been an up & down type of year over the last couple of years, but overall, I'd like to say that I have walked away with many memories that I will always cherish. I will take my experience working with them to heart as I open new doors in my life, career, and whatever else that might cross my path.

So, I thank Michael Fortanasce, Christi Park, all of my fellow co-workers, and many of the patients I have helped care for (and a few who I have made friends with) for giving me the experiences and opportunities that I had encountered working there for almost five years!

One of my best friends, Jamie, has been in and out of the hospital over the last 4 months. She was first admitted into the hospital back in April, where the doctors weren't quite sure what was wrong with her. She was released, with a pick line attached, so that she could attend her brother's wedding later that month. She did well until she was readmitted into the hospital just a few days later. This time, the doctors believed she either had tuberculosis of the spine or a staph infection. Either way... she spent another couple of weeks of getting medications, then was discharged once the infection was taken care of.

Soon after, in early June, she was admitted again in the hospital. This time, she was complaining of stomach pain. It was found that she had pancreatic necrosis, and only 10% of her pancreas was functioning. She debated for weeks whether to have surgery, and finally had it on July 5. 80% of the non-functioning part of the pancreas was removed, and the doctor wanted to remove more. But she refused... She was released from the hospital on August 10, but returned again last Monday.

Jamie is one of my best friends... We've gone through thick & thin during our short time as friends. She is my inspiration considering all that she's been through (health-wise) since she was a little girl. I miss our chats & TV adventures (no Dr. Phil this year). So, please keep her in your thoughts and prayers as she fights through another battle.