jeunesse’s Stuff!

I finally got my plane ticket booked, tickets awaiting for me to pick  up! I am counting down the days ’til I get to the Philippines.  It has been almost over 12 years since I left, amazing where the time all went.  I can’t believe how long it took me to return, and venture my motherland! I’m definitely going back to my roots.  We’ll see where this trip leads me. 

At this time, I’ll be officially on vacation from this rainy weather and mundate routine in approximately 15 days! ( that gives me enough time to collect phone numbers, gather my stuff, organize my luggage, find a dog sitter, clean up my house, finish the laundry, throw away the left overs, endorse my job to the casuals, orient my replacement, type away last few emails, re-assure my community patients that I’ll be back, meet up with my accountant, write away last few cheques, communicate with my neighbors, advise the post man to put my letters on hold, and etc…and yeah not to mention,a few more days of crunches and my abs will be much better for a bikini!)  WHEW that list will only go on, unless I leave soon enough to realize that definitely I do need a break!

2007 is the year of the BOAR!

Year: 1911, 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031
Greatest Affinity : Rabbit, Sheep
Greatest Enmity : Snake

Ranking order               :  Twelfth
Hours ruled by the BOAR     :  9 pm - 11 pm
Direction of its sign       :  North -Northwest
Season and principal month  :  Autumn - November
Corresponds to Western sign :  Scorpio
Fixed Element               :  Water
Stem                        :  Negative

Metal Boar - 1911, 1971, 2051


A proud, passionate Boar with overpowering sentiments,


who values his reputation. Intense and more dominating than 

others, this type of Boar often has excessive appetites and 

could lack refinement or tact.


He exerts less control over his personal life and is very 

sociable and extroverted. Openly demonstrative with his 

affections and pure-minded, he underestimates his enemies 

and overestimates his friends. He is not likely to be 

secretive and will be direct and trusting, even credulous.

Ambitious and forceful, but not always objective, 

the Metal Boar could be a dangerous opponent, as he can be 

violent in expressing his anger or resentment.


This type of Boar will not concede defeat graciously. 

He is not a quitter and can be relied on to have 

immense powers of endurance. An active doer blessed with 

great positive strength, the staunch Metal Boar will have 

enough vigor for ten.


A year of goodwill to all. An excellent climate for business, 

and industry in general will prevail. People will be more free 

and easy on the whole and the complaisant attitude of the Boar 

will generate a feeling of abundance. But in spite of the 

favorable auspices here, like the Boar we will hesitate, 

waver and undermine our own abilities when opportunity calls.

The Boar's year is one of plenty. La dolce vita is very much 

advocated and practiced by the sensual Boar. If life is worth 

living, it mist be lived to the hilt. Such is his motto. 


The Boar is as lavish with gifts as he is with affection. 

He takes pride in being chivalrous and extravagant. It would 

be ill-advised to overspend this eyar of make sizable 

investments without thorough investigation. We may also come 

to regret impulsive acts of generosity made on the spir of the

moment.

The fortunate Boar carries with him contentment and security. 

This is one year in which you could be happy without having or 

needing a lot of success or money to make it so. There will 

not seem to be many hurdles to overcome and the placid Boar 

radiates a sense of well-being. Still, a great deal of 

prudence is recommended in money matters, as the Boar is 

always susceptible to swindlers.



This year will find us entertaining a lot more than usual 

and getting ourselves involved in all sorts of charitable 

and social functions. We find it a lot easier to make friends 

in the Boar's tolerant and expansive atmosphere. 

Watch out for excesses, though, as the Boar tends to 

overindulge himself in anything when given the opportunity. 

Weight watchers will have a tough time and may face losing 

(or rather, gaining) battles.



Referenced from:http://member.newsguy.com/~twilight/ch/boar/year.htm

On the 26th of December, instead of sleeping in after working 2 consecutive 16hours of shift in the hospital, I have been dragged by my co worker to succomb to the infamous "Boxing Day" sales in the mall.  This time, We were’nt after the discounted clothes, nor the bargained electronics, but merely we are after Half Priced Christmas ornaments and in search for the perfect tree…Usually fake Christmas trees would cost you $250 and up here in Vancouver (on Christmas season).  And these are literally, the "nordic" typed ones with a combination of almost real looking branches, leaves and pines.  Not to mention, patronizing the popular brands of Martha Stewart and the like.  We thought that if we get the good fake ones (is there such one) at a bargained price and keep it for the next Christmas, then we got ourselves a good catch. By then,  we could say goodbye to the real pine trees which are at around $25, the base for approx $40 which also includes hauling it on top of your car, cutting it from the tree farm, making sure the base has water everyday, cleaning the pines that fall, then after Christmas-taking it to a recycling depot, hauling it again and so much more…mind you the real tree is enticing to smell–

To go back to my story, my friend and I rushed in the mall very early in the morning ( way beyond my waking hour).  At that time, we saw boxes of Martha Stewart trees that were from $199 to $88 on sale, at this time we couldnt believe our eyes and yes the staff confirmed that it was indeed $88. Boxes of trees were flying like pancakes and for the mean time, I got my tree reserved behind the counter.  The frugalness in me kicked in and I simply stated that I will have to do more tree hunting, since I know that theres a $50 tree around the town, and it was in the same brand.  I then made sure that my $88 tree was reserved.  I instead, braved on the malls, searching for other tree sales–I was a lunatic finding this tree with my friend.  I just can’t stand paying $88 and finding that we could actually have a similar one for $50 (I just could’nt justify that).  To my dismay, after scoping around 6-7 places and ending up with a bagfull of Christmas ornaments in my shopping bag-without a tree, I returned to the cashier who had reserved my tree.  And for the meantime, just when I was going to pay and hand in my debit card, this cashier tells me "$225" including tax please!. I’m like "What???" I was literally expecting it to be $88, I felt so dumb and held the line behind me for further clarification.  The tree that I was going to buy was originally "$425" and it went on to a price of "$199" and I was just told earlier of the day that it had extra 60% off for a deal of "$88".  This cashier looked bewildered and havent heard of such.  Anyhow, the trees that were flying like pancakes earlier of the day, was sold for that value ($88), and the staff in the morning actually took an extra 60%off where as, it shouldnt have been.  The actual deal was actually $199.  Lucky shoppers indeed got a grab of a very high priced bargain!

Needless, to say I battled the malls, lost sleep, exhausted my energy and left the store without a tree…

Moral of the story: Once you find a good deal-take it and don’t think twice, and for goodness sakes–make your frugalness under control (make that my new years resolution!)

     As the Christmas season approaches and the coming of the new year unfolds,  I begin to contemplate on what my journey has been the past few years and what my life has been this year.  I’d like to think that I’ve had the most share of good times this year, on the contrary, I personally think that I had the most of my timuteous moments this year. At one point, it seems to me that those challenges simply won’t go away.  I’ve had merely thought that life was’nt fair when my prayers were’nt granted.  I once, twice, lost hope but now, I could honestly say that I have gained it all back.  I’ve learned to count my blessings and faithfully believe that one day, my turn will bound to happen.  Despite of it all, I’ve also come to a conclusion, that everything happens in the right moment, time, and place…and instinctively, miracles do happen.

I hope to be a mother, a succesful business woman and a career oriented nurse.  I one day long to travel the world, meet new people and keep the friends that I have.  I want to have a strong family of my own, keep my 57 community- case load of patients,  and help them lead an effective life, free from any illness or social problems.  I intend to combine my work as a nurse and be a public servant through the career path I have chosen.  On the other hand, Im not suggesting to be a hero nor an infamous public figure.  All I’m after is pursuing my happiness and making the most of what I have become from the trvial adversities I have had. 

   It is through what I do that I learn to be grounded,  and because of my aspirations and dreams, I am ambitious.  And because of my family, friends and husband I am me.  All these, equal to what I continue to stand for in the coming years. 

  I have nothing in my Christmas stocking but my heart is full of dreams, in search for the real true meaning of Christmas,  Trust me, I am half-way there.

I am counting down the days til I finally set foot in the sunny shores of my motherland..the Philippines! Yes you are damn right..this bitch is back! hahahha It would be great to get away from this drastic, cold, dreary and wet weather of Vancouver, Canada.  So many to think about, so many plans to make, and so many faces I would like to see and rekindle those memories.  At the same time, it would also be great travelling with my hubby  enjoying our time and making the most of our long awaited trip.  I honestly don’t know where to begin…I’d probably go mayhem as soon as I get into the plane. After almost 12 years of being in North America, there will certainly be a lot of changes that I will be anticipating for.  Regardless, I wouldn’t let this affect my expectations.  Boracay, IloIlo, Cebu, Palawan, Manila then the rest of my Asia plans..so many places I would like to conquer..we’ll see where the craziness begins!!!

Last night, I was treated to one of the festive boys night outs ever…it was one of those adrenaline rushed nights! ..I can hardly recall the last time I did one of these so called "college fraternity" parties.  As I ventured into my husband’s world, there’s no doubt in my mind that I can be one of them too… Ultimate Fighting Championship aka "UFC" and the boxing match between the infamous "pacquiao and morales" boxing divas. It was awesome, pizza, beers and loud drunk guys just enjoying the night.  I can’t be spared…I know the linggo and I can attest that "if you can’t beat them, join them"

All in one night I had a cocktail dinner with my best friend’s hubby, surrounded by Docs, fine seafood appy’s and an overall "less boisterous"crowd compared to the next party..In contrast, the next party I stopped by, took the "male side" out of me…and yes hollering the night away was a perfect way to end it. Still hang overed but I sure am glad that I ventured it.

I have been oddly sick in bed the past few weeks with challenging symptoms of cold and flu.  I have been cuddled with my blanket, watching my window, by my bed, seeing the leaves fall and change its color right before my eyes.  This fall weather must have triggered some blues in me.

My mail box is full, my answering machine is to its brink of exploding as it tells me to delete messages as it is full.  It was bombarded by phone calls from this job I have been awaiting for, a position in the mental health corporate tower.  My weak brain and aching body has only caused me to be receptive to return their phone call and procrastinate to give them a call back some other day.

My head was preoccupied with numerous things, the next jennifer aniston flick im going to watch, the out of this world cravings that I have, the next menu Im going to ask my husband to prepare for me, and my dog who is also sick, sitting at the end of my bed. Instead of me dog sitting her, she was "human" sitting me.  For some reason, whenever Im sick, my dog is also sick..some sort of connection as you  call it, I’m beginning to feel like I have the powers similar to a "dog whisperer"hahah

Last night, I received two important phone calls, one: Tita Emma offered to cook me my cravings "arroz caldo" and two: a girlffriend wanting to vent out, and insistantly asked me if she could bring something, so i jumped into the idea of an ice cream… Arroz caldo, ice cream + bonus chips and layered dip with matching freshly cooked peanuts…what a combo (I was in heaven) well partly of the food cravings, but mainly for the people that took time out to remember me when I was weak in bed.  I started to feel blessed by people who took the time, not only to cater to my cravings, but to fill up an empty tv room and living area.

As I get better, my dog feels much alive too…weird but true, the other day she seem to be bothered by arthritis, now she’s up and running—-we’ll see what happens .

Yes I am finally back to this blog world! so much has happened in the past year and I don’t even know where to begin…I must admit I have been painstakingly Missing in Action as what you may call it!

First and foremost, I sure am so glad to be back in beautiful British Columbia.  I could’nt be much ecstatic seeing the glowing faces and feeling the welcoming hugs of my friends.  I came back with tons of baggage and one by one, it seemed to just falter away because of the support and caring atmosphere I have received from everyone who I was longing for.  My husband and I are definitely much happier..and with yet another surprise that will be bound to be declared, the missing piece in our life will finally be complete. This time, I can honestly say that I am a firm believer of "blessing in disguises"… just when our lives were thrown into challenge, here we are stronger as ever battling those challenges away. It has been one hell of a ride however at this very moment, we’re simply just enjoying the smooth sailing journey of our life one after the other!

Blame it on the clock:Left Vegas at 6am, we were supposed to leave at 230 am but our alarm clock did’nt work..nevertheless, plan goes through.  Left our comfy niche, our humble home and took our "black beauty" dog over my in-laws the night before.  Sad to say, my husband and I already missed her.   

Accomplishment: In 20 hrs, we were proud of our accomplishment of driving through 4 States! the drive was incredible and less boring for sure, compared to our drive from YVR to Las Vegas, last year–specifically the drive enroute to Vegas from Reno is Horrible..WE thought we were going to die! die out of boredom, heat, leass stimulation and plain BLAH! the drive reminded me of a scene from lonely planet.

UTAH: On the day we drove,   we first stopped by Starbucks got our grande ice mocha with whip of course.  Our car was packed and the idea of having a cooler and prepared sandwhiches was great!  we headed to our first stop Utah and enjoyed the amazing red canyons and landscape.  lots of striations in the mountain side,  There was never a site of lake along our drive. Wooden cabins surround these canyons, I bet winter is great in Utah.  Aside from Utah, being known as the Mormon State,  this state was also more industrial than we ever thought! surrounded by factories and smokey chimneys.  We passed by and finished the Drive in Utah in almost 5 hrs approximately.  The road signs were quite confusing, lots of SO. signs–to name a few SO. 45678, SO 32678 not really quite sure how that works, but for posterity sake I took a picture and will eventually search for answers as to how this works.  Does anyone know how this actually works? all the signs had SO.  (does that stand for South? what if Im going North, do I have to go through SO. first, wherein Im going South but will actually need to hit North?) Oh gosh spare me with your explanation.

IDAHO: The transition from Utah to Idaho was pretty quick, my husband seem tired so I gladly took over and drove to cross IDAHO-OREGON.  The drive was less stimulating, but tolerable.  Finding a good radio station after going through my pile of Cd’s is almost a torture.  Radio stations are either full in Static, or just busting out some country tunes, but then again I’m not a country song fan.. but do I really have a choice, when all there is, is a country song?  for that short of span of time, I got to know Leanne Rymes, Colin Raye, Jeff Stryker, and Ashley Simons to name a few (RnB fans: who the hell are they?) I was square tapping my feet, while I was driving to farm lands, surrounded by wheat, corn and some others..I kept on looking out for a potato farm since Idaho is known for it, but unfortunately could not gaze on it during my fast drive along the vast empty road.  Interesting enough, I saw a dead deer, dead racoon, dead squirrel and I saw a bird lost its wing after it hit the truck just before me (ouch! poor bird will eventually die as it landed on the side of the road).  I also saw a truck on fire, (over heated) and some po-po (police) on the road investigating, and hence I had to be a good girl and drive slowly, then speed up right after, when they’re out of my site. 

OREGON: At last, I can breathe…by this time my husband was awake, due to my load voice singing away to country songs. He’s probably thinking that I’ve gone completely mad.  And so, we stopped by a gas station, emersed ourselves with a short break with selections of snacks and off we switched.  By this time, switching driver seats was probably a good idea since I’d rather enjoy the site of Oregon.  It was already 4pm and yet we were rushed with adrenaline, challenging ourselves that we could probably make it to Vancouver, Monday 12am.  ( I let my husband do all the talking…"WE’ll head straight to BC tonight" i’m thinking "yeah right, if you can clear up yor tired red eyes, fill in your tummy with decent food other than sanwhiches and chips, get some sleep then we’ll make it) At this point, our muscles are stiff and butts cramping after almost 12 hours-half a day of driving.  Unfortunately, the sun was almost setting as we were just enjoying the scenic route to Oregon.  We were completely surrounded with nothing but darkness, the coastal highways, the shore and the moon that mirrors over it, it would be much nicer if we could enjoy this in the day time.  Our car was turning from quiet short conversations to silence, and all we can hear are our stomaches grumbling, asking for a decent meal and a well deserved rest.  We both realized that we over challenged ourselves from making it to BC by midnight.  We decided to call it a night and stopped over Dalles, Oregon.  Plan in the am: Take more pics and enjoy the rest of the scenes from Oregon, (oh and shopping ofcourse counts haha).

WASHINGTON: We can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel, we’ve gone past 4 states and enjoyed a glimpse of it during our drive. We enjoyed this drive better, and now we’re already thinking of doing this route again.  156miles to BC, we can actually see the signs! after seeing warning signs with miles longer than that, we knew that this drive will be a breeze.  It was almost close to nothing that we could ever define as "FAR"  finally we are close to getting this jouney done.  As all there ever is, it is an amazing experience sharing this with someone else-my husband.  It was another mission accomplished:

     Gasoline from Vegas to Vancouver BC –$150

     Snacks/meals                                   –$100

     Overnight stay                                 –$60

     Being together enjoying and listening to the nature, the sunrise to sunset,

     enjoying the moon as it mirrors itself on the shore, sharing the sure feeling of

     adrenaline, hunger and exhillaration, seeing family and nephews, —-   

     PRICELESS!         

just to keep track…approximately 35 days to go on my imaginary countdown..what am i counting down in the first place? anyhow…

we’re off to a long haul from Vegas to the Northwest…it will be nice to see lush trees and vegetation once again..First stop will be the land of the Mormon’s Utah,then the land of the potatoes-Idaho, then the coast of Oregon, then finally Seattle..will keep you posted whether we make a stop somewhere unplanned..but then again, do you think I should tell everyone that? hahah–its a secret ofcourse! (wink)…

we’ll take some great pics and keep my journey open right here.