I Got Tagged!
...and we all know how MnM is a sucker for these things...
5 Things Found In My Bag
(besides my wallet)
- phone
- lotion
- tissue
- mini-SF map (it's so handy!)
- lip stuff
5 Things Found In My Wallet
- teacher discount cards
- driver's license
- Starbucks card
- CPR/1st Aid certification cards
- bank/credit cards
5 Things Found In My Room
- laptop
- suitcases and boxes filled with clothes
- half-empty water and Powerade bottles
- pile of uncorrected papers
- Bible
5 Things I've Always Wanted To Do
- travel the world...beginning with Europe
- write a book
- learn how to play the guitar and violin
- speak fluent Tagalog
- wear a bathing suit...lol...in my dreams!
5 Things I'm Currently Into
- admittedly so...MySpace
- getting into better shape
- peeled baby carrots...yummy!
- Ireland ;-)
- shopping for my new place
Monday, October 29, 2007
Big News!
So the day has finally arrived...MnM is moving out!
Everyone knows that the past couple of years have been tough...pure hell almost...but as the new year began, I was determined to make 2007 MY year. It may not have started smooth, but the way it has been going lately, it can only get better from here on out. With the big D being official (as long as that took...), the burden was lifted from my shoulders. There was this "symbolic" part of it all that I was just waiting to happen. I kept telling myself, "...once those papers are signed..." But as the months went by and ex-hubby was nowhere to be found, I used that as an excuse to move on. I hated that...because even though I was the one who left, I allowed him to still have that hold on me. But then in a matter of days, everything fell into place. It hit me like a ton of bricks, for sure, but it was going to happen no matter what. I'm just glad it finally did. Getting divorced: check!
Last weekend, the NIKE Women's marathon took place in San Francisco. 23,000 participants from all across the country...all running for a great cause...in memory of or in honor of a loved one. Inspiring is the one word that comes to mind. Proud is another...simply because I can't believe I actually got through it! While I don't feel my three months of training was adequate, I plugged on...and geez, look at where that got me! But the aches and pains are gone and I'm ready to continue my training...Mommy Hernandez mentioned in passing that there's another marathon with NIKE happening in Chicago this coming April. Who knows? I've always wanted to see Chicago...without the snow! All in all, having completed my first marathon is a HUGE deal for me...it proved a lot of things for me...one, simply that I could finally do something for myself. Physically, I've still got a lot to work on and a lot more to lose, but now that I'm in that mode, I can definitely continue on and improve on this health trip. Completing NIKE marathon: check!
FYI: although the marathon is over, ya'll are encouraged to continue to donate to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society via my TNT page. They will accept gifts for one more month! Thanks to those who generously donated...I hope I did you proud!
One of my main goals this year was to finally get a place of my own. It's easy to dream about, but then the reality of my financial situation slaps me silly in the face. I've been incredibly lucky to have such a supportive family who took me in after I left Minnesota...and it's really through their love and good graces that I've been able to get back on my feet once again. Don't get me wrong, I've got debts up the arse, thanks to ex-hubby...he's the best, I tell you. What a guy! But why should I let his poor choices in life determine mine? If I had a choice, I would move to Foster City in a heartbeat, hands down! But Foster City being so pricey, definitely not a possibility. I searched up and down the Peninsula, but with my humble teacher's salary, no can do. For a while, I thought I was going to convert and be an "East Bay girl"...sorry BruthaMan...I've changed my mind! I would've loved to be closer to my sis and of course, the weather is gorgeous most of the time, but the commute would've bitten the big one. SOOOOO...yes, MnM tends to ramble...I've found a spot in the city...the city that I've begun to fall in love with all over again. In fact, the best part of this lil' place (and it is small...but shit, it's MINE)...is that it's just a few blocks from the beach. It can't beat that! Seems like I'm always there anyways, it just makes sense. Moving out: check!
2007 continues to surprise me...to be quite honest, there was a time when I thought that nothing would ever go my way. I believed that I just had to take things for what they were and that would be that. Man...how pathetic was I?! Hell no...not anymore. Life has been good...and it continues to be blessed. It's so awesome to be able to check things off my To Do list...little by little, I'm gaining my life back...and so far, I'm loving it.
So the day has finally arrived...MnM is moving out!
Everyone knows that the past couple of years have been tough...pure hell almost...but as the new year began, I was determined to make 2007 MY year. It may not have started smooth, but the way it has been going lately, it can only get better from here on out. With the big D being official (as long as that took...), the burden was lifted from my shoulders. There was this "symbolic" part of it all that I was just waiting to happen. I kept telling myself, "...once those papers are signed..." But as the months went by and ex-hubby was nowhere to be found, I used that as an excuse to move on. I hated that...because even though I was the one who left, I allowed him to still have that hold on me. But then in a matter of days, everything fell into place. It hit me like a ton of bricks, for sure, but it was going to happen no matter what. I'm just glad it finally did. Getting divorced: check!
Last weekend, the NIKE Women's marathon took place in San Francisco. 23,000 participants from all across the country...all running for a great cause...in memory of or in honor of a loved one. Inspiring is the one word that comes to mind. Proud is another...simply because I can't believe I actually got through it! While I don't feel my three months of training was adequate, I plugged on...and geez, look at where that got me! But the aches and pains are gone and I'm ready to continue my training...Mommy Hernandez mentioned in passing that there's another marathon with NIKE happening in Chicago this coming April. Who knows? I've always wanted to see Chicago...without the snow! All in all, having completed my first marathon is a HUGE deal for me...it proved a lot of things for me...one, simply that I could finally do something for myself. Physically, I've still got a lot to work on and a lot more to lose, but now that I'm in that mode, I can definitely continue on and improve on this health trip. Completing NIKE marathon: check!
FYI: although the marathon is over, ya'll are encouraged to continue to donate to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society via my TNT page. They will accept gifts for one more month! Thanks to those who generously donated...I hope I did you proud!
One of my main goals this year was to finally get a place of my own. It's easy to dream about, but then the reality of my financial situation slaps me silly in the face. I've been incredibly lucky to have such a supportive family who took me in after I left Minnesota...and it's really through their love and good graces that I've been able to get back on my feet once again. Don't get me wrong, I've got debts up the arse, thanks to ex-hubby...he's the best, I tell you. What a guy! But why should I let his poor choices in life determine mine? If I had a choice, I would move to Foster City in a heartbeat, hands down! But Foster City being so pricey, definitely not a possibility. I searched up and down the Peninsula, but with my humble teacher's salary, no can do. For a while, I thought I was going to convert and be an "East Bay girl"...sorry BruthaMan...I've changed my mind! I would've loved to be closer to my sis and of course, the weather is gorgeous most of the time, but the commute would've bitten the big one. SOOOOO...yes, MnM tends to ramble...I've found a spot in the city...the city that I've begun to fall in love with all over again. In fact, the best part of this lil' place (and it is small...but shit, it's MINE)...is that it's just a few blocks from the beach. It can't beat that! Seems like I'm always there anyways, it just makes sense. Moving out: check!
2007 continues to surprise me...to be quite honest, there was a time when I thought that nothing would ever go my way. I believed that I just had to take things for what they were and that would be that. Man...how pathetic was I?! Hell no...not anymore. Life has been good...and it continues to be blessed. It's so awesome to be able to check things off my To Do list...little by little, I'm gaining my life back...and so far, I'm loving it.
Monday, October 22, 2007
NIKE WOMEN'S MARATHON
October 21, 2007
I did it! My first marathon! After three months of on and off training, I was able to complete 13.1 miles...AND, I didn't have to crawl over that finish line!
Prior to the run itself, NIKE sponsored an Expotique in Union Square for all marathoon participants...and as Mommy Hernandez put it, "IT'S ALL ABOUT THE FREE STUFF!"
On Friday night, we went down and aside from picking up my running bib and packet, we also got a free manicure! Now ok, so just because it's free doesn't mean the quality is the greatest...but it was still a nice treat. There were free snacks, drinks, giveaways, and massages, but that line was way too long. Even though it was two days before the race, you could definitely feel the excitement in the air.
Along with the excitement, there was a definite anxiety that I was having. Would my training pay off? Would I give up? Could I do this? It kept me up on Saturday night into the wee hours of the morning! All in all, I must've had about 3 hours of sleep! But come Sunday morning, I was up and ready, Team in Training jersey on, bib #14735 on, sunblock, hat, shoes...I was pumped.
RACE DAY- Sunday
It's said that there was a total of 23,000 participants...that's a whole lotta people! The start line was at Union Square, but to even get to our designated areas was pure hell. They let people start according to how fast one could do a mile- we were in the 12-14 minute group. But aside from the actual runners/walkers, add in the equation all the family and friends who came to support their loved ones. And oh yes, all of the anxious runners who decided that it was okay to push and shove their way through...not cool ladies! By the time we were given the go-ahead, it was approximately 7:20am when we passed the start line.
As pathetic as this will sound, we were not even into the first mile when I started lagging behind Mommy Hernandez and CuznJ. I felt a tweak in my back and my first thought was "oh shit, not now!" I had to slow my pace even further until I found a good and comfortable groove. Maybe it was somewhat of a blessing because as the sun came up over the Bay Bridge, it made for a lot of Kodak moments that I couldn't pass up. So yes, if you can imagine, in the midst of a marathon with thousands of people running, there I was snapping away at the picturesque views of our beautiful city...and hey, I wasn't the only one!
Sunrise over the Bay Bridge
.JPG)
Among the many places that we got to pass through included the following: the Embarcadero, Fisherman's Wharf, Aquatic Park and Ghiradelli Square (with clear views of the Alcatraz), the hill of Fort Mason (another awesome view of the Golden Gate Bridge), the Marina, Crissy Field, SeaCliff neighborhood (hello Robin Williams!), the Presidio, Cliff House, Golden Gate Park (near the buffalo and polo fields), and finally the end at Ocean Beach. Talk about a beautiful running course...and yet again, another chance for me to fall in love all over with our beautiful city.
A couple of things that I found funny...first of all, a guy running in a dress is always something to chuckle at! The fact that he was the center of many photo ops was pretty hilarious. Another was the fact that people were shedding clothes left and right...but leaving them in the streets! It's like that Hansel and Gretel story where the kids leave behind bread crumbs to make sure they don't lose their way...it was the same thing! After a while, the jokes kept coming..."..anyone need a new jacket?....who needs the mall?..." It was such a random thing, whether or not they would come back and retrieve their articles, I highly doubt.
Another thing that I thought was pretty awesome was the fact that there so many out-of-state participants. Because I registered with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, we were under the umbrella of Team in Training, San Francisco Bay Area Chapter...and our purple jerseys proudly displayed that. Amid the sea of purple, there were delegations from Ohio, Georgia, Texas, Mississippi, Minnesota and many more. It was inspiring to see pictures of loved ones pinned to their jerseys, the people they were running in honor and/or in memory of.
A big motivating factor throughout the course were the many TNT coaches and mentors. They were out and about running among the crowds, others were shouting from the sidelines that we were doing an awesome job. Plus, there were so many volunteers who were handing out drinks and as you took one, they'd tell you to keep on going. On top of that, there were so many supporters with signs, giving everyone the thumbs up, yelling that we look beautiful and that we can do it. When we were in the hills, a few supporters kept repeating, "Don't let that hill control you! You control the hill! Ya'll can do it...keep going!" At the Embarcadero, there was a Gospel choir; in GGP, there was an Irish band (go Irish- hee hee!); near the Marina, there was a Cheer Squad and near the finish, a high school cheerleading squad, along with their pom-poms, were giving everyone high fives. It was neat!
So how did I do? Like I mentioned, I backed off of Mommy Hernandez's pace almost from the start and basically did the run by myself. While I did a lot of walking to compensate for my back pain, I DID run a good portion of it...that, I'm proud of. The time limit for the entire marathon is 6.5 hours. With the training that I was doing, I originally thought that I'd be able to complete the course under 4 hours...I was averaging 15 minutes per mile. BUT, what I didn't take into consideration were the damn hills of San Francisco! OMG...the hills K-I-L-L-E-D me! There was a point, I want to say at Mile 6, that as I was making my way up slowly, I swear, I began to see stars. At first I thought it was the sun shining in my eyes, but I had my hat and shades on...and when I blinked, I just saw white. It freaked me out because I've never experienced that before and my initial thought was, "Oh my god, I'm going to pass out!" Luckily, they have water/Gatorade stations every few miles and I was right near one. After I drank some Gatorade and had a Luna gel, I was good to go...in fact, it gave me a boost of energy to run. Lol...whew! Talk about some scary shit!
At Mile 10 near the Cliff House, I had the most painful cramps in my thighs. It was so unbearable that I literally had to squat and stretch for five minutes. I've had those before, but only since I started training for the marathon...but wow, this gal does not take pain well! Knowing that I was approximately three miles from the finish, I plugged on. As I made my way down to Ocean Beach, it's such a tease because the Finish Line is in view. But with 3 more miles to go, the course takes you into Golden Gate Park and back out to the Great Highway. Mile 12 is dubbed the Chocolate Mile...lol, because that's where they give out free Ghiradelli chocolate squares for that extra boost of energy! I tell you...it helped because as I found myself back on the Great Highway, the energy in the air magnified. Family, friends, and supporters were lined up and cheering everyone on...and as tired as I was, I was determined to run it in! By the time I crossed the Finish Line, my end time was approximately 4 hours and some change.
At the Finish, you're greeted by guys in tuxes holding up silver platters with these lil' blue boxes. As a NIKE Women's Marathon participant, everyone gets a silver sterling neckace from Tiffany's! WOW! (..."It's all about the free stuff!...") Now for this simple gal, I've never had anything from there, so I was pretty stoked. It's really nice...on one side, there's a silhouette of two runners; on the back, it says, "NWM SF 07" along with the NIKE swoosh symbol and the Tiffany trademark. You also get a pink t-shirt that says "Finisher." At the TNT tent, not only did I get free lunch, but I also got a pin that says, "13.1" along with the TNT logo. Mommy Hernandez was right...it's all about the free stuff! Lol!
Needless to say, I'm damn proud of myself! As I look back at how 2007 started, I was a wreck. But as the year progressed, it only got better. The decision to do things for myself has made me stronger and more confident. Through this marathon, I wanted to prove to everyone that I AM okay...that I AM moving forward...and that divorce has not brought me down. It really did bite the big one, but with time, the hurt lessened a little bit every day. I stuck to my resolution that 2007 would be MY year..and it has been. And hey, it doesn't hurt that some of my clothes are feeling a little looser, too! ;-)
Running this marathon is a huge accomplishment for me...and I'm determined, more than ever, to do even bigger things in this second-chance-at-happiness-life of mine.
.JPG)
Thanks ya'll for the support...it's meant the world to me. Much love...
p.s.
Pics to come soon!
p.p.s.
I'm S-O-R-E as hell! Didn't make it to work because, well, I just couldn't move...but I did find some energy to head to NIKETOWN for guess what...a FREE massage!
October 21, 2007
I did it! My first marathon! After three months of on and off training, I was able to complete 13.1 miles...AND, I didn't have to crawl over that finish line!
Prior to the run itself, NIKE sponsored an Expotique in Union Square for all marathoon participants...and as Mommy Hernandez put it, "IT'S ALL ABOUT THE FREE STUFF!"
On Friday night, we went down and aside from picking up my running bib and packet, we also got a free manicure! Now ok, so just because it's free doesn't mean the quality is the greatest...but it was still a nice treat. There were free snacks, drinks, giveaways, and massages, but that line was way too long. Even though it was two days before the race, you could definitely feel the excitement in the air.
Along with the excitement, there was a definite anxiety that I was having. Would my training pay off? Would I give up? Could I do this? It kept me up on Saturday night into the wee hours of the morning! All in all, I must've had about 3 hours of sleep! But come Sunday morning, I was up and ready, Team in Training jersey on, bib #14735 on, sunblock, hat, shoes...I was pumped.
RACE DAY- Sunday
It's said that there was a total of 23,000 participants...that's a whole lotta people! The start line was at Union Square, but to even get to our designated areas was pure hell. They let people start according to how fast one could do a mile- we were in the 12-14 minute group. But aside from the actual runners/walkers, add in the equation all the family and friends who came to support their loved ones. And oh yes, all of the anxious runners who decided that it was okay to push and shove their way through...not cool ladies! By the time we were given the go-ahead, it was approximately 7:20am when we passed the start line.
As pathetic as this will sound, we were not even into the first mile when I started lagging behind Mommy Hernandez and CuznJ. I felt a tweak in my back and my first thought was "oh shit, not now!" I had to slow my pace even further until I found a good and comfortable groove. Maybe it was somewhat of a blessing because as the sun came up over the Bay Bridge, it made for a lot of Kodak moments that I couldn't pass up. So yes, if you can imagine, in the midst of a marathon with thousands of people running, there I was snapping away at the picturesque views of our beautiful city...and hey, I wasn't the only one!
Sunrise over the Bay Bridge
.JPG)
Among the many places that we got to pass through included the following: the Embarcadero, Fisherman's Wharf, Aquatic Park and Ghiradelli Square (with clear views of the Alcatraz), the hill of Fort Mason (another awesome view of the Golden Gate Bridge), the Marina, Crissy Field, SeaCliff neighborhood (hello Robin Williams!), the Presidio, Cliff House, Golden Gate Park (near the buffalo and polo fields), and finally the end at Ocean Beach. Talk about a beautiful running course...and yet again, another chance for me to fall in love all over with our beautiful city.
A couple of things that I found funny...first of all, a guy running in a dress is always something to chuckle at! The fact that he was the center of many photo ops was pretty hilarious. Another was the fact that people were shedding clothes left and right...but leaving them in the streets! It's like that Hansel and Gretel story where the kids leave behind bread crumbs to make sure they don't lose their way...it was the same thing! After a while, the jokes kept coming..."..anyone need a new jacket?....who needs the mall?..." It was such a random thing, whether or not they would come back and retrieve their articles, I highly doubt.
Another thing that I thought was pretty awesome was the fact that there so many out-of-state participants. Because I registered with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, we were under the umbrella of Team in Training, San Francisco Bay Area Chapter...and our purple jerseys proudly displayed that. Amid the sea of purple, there were delegations from Ohio, Georgia, Texas, Mississippi, Minnesota and many more. It was inspiring to see pictures of loved ones pinned to their jerseys, the people they were running in honor and/or in memory of.
A big motivating factor throughout the course were the many TNT coaches and mentors. They were out and about running among the crowds, others were shouting from the sidelines that we were doing an awesome job. Plus, there were so many volunteers who were handing out drinks and as you took one, they'd tell you to keep on going. On top of that, there were so many supporters with signs, giving everyone the thumbs up, yelling that we look beautiful and that we can do it. When we were in the hills, a few supporters kept repeating, "Don't let that hill control you! You control the hill! Ya'll can do it...keep going!" At the Embarcadero, there was a Gospel choir; in GGP, there was an Irish band (go Irish- hee hee!); near the Marina, there was a Cheer Squad and near the finish, a high school cheerleading squad, along with their pom-poms, were giving everyone high fives. It was neat!
So how did I do? Like I mentioned, I backed off of Mommy Hernandez's pace almost from the start and basically did the run by myself. While I did a lot of walking to compensate for my back pain, I DID run a good portion of it...that, I'm proud of. The time limit for the entire marathon is 6.5 hours. With the training that I was doing, I originally thought that I'd be able to complete the course under 4 hours...I was averaging 15 minutes per mile. BUT, what I didn't take into consideration were the damn hills of San Francisco! OMG...the hills K-I-L-L-E-D me! There was a point, I want to say at Mile 6, that as I was making my way up slowly, I swear, I began to see stars. At first I thought it was the sun shining in my eyes, but I had my hat and shades on...and when I blinked, I just saw white. It freaked me out because I've never experienced that before and my initial thought was, "Oh my god, I'm going to pass out!" Luckily, they have water/Gatorade stations every few miles and I was right near one. After I drank some Gatorade and had a Luna gel, I was good to go...in fact, it gave me a boost of energy to run. Lol...whew! Talk about some scary shit!
At Mile 10 near the Cliff House, I had the most painful cramps in my thighs. It was so unbearable that I literally had to squat and stretch for five minutes. I've had those before, but only since I started training for the marathon...but wow, this gal does not take pain well! Knowing that I was approximately three miles from the finish, I plugged on. As I made my way down to Ocean Beach, it's such a tease because the Finish Line is in view. But with 3 more miles to go, the course takes you into Golden Gate Park and back out to the Great Highway. Mile 12 is dubbed the Chocolate Mile...lol, because that's where they give out free Ghiradelli chocolate squares for that extra boost of energy! I tell you...it helped because as I found myself back on the Great Highway, the energy in the air magnified. Family, friends, and supporters were lined up and cheering everyone on...and as tired as I was, I was determined to run it in! By the time I crossed the Finish Line, my end time was approximately 4 hours and some change.
At the Finish, you're greeted by guys in tuxes holding up silver platters with these lil' blue boxes. As a NIKE Women's Marathon participant, everyone gets a silver sterling neckace from Tiffany's! WOW! (..."It's all about the free stuff!...") Now for this simple gal, I've never had anything from there, so I was pretty stoked. It's really nice...on one side, there's a silhouette of two runners; on the back, it says, "NWM SF 07" along with the NIKE swoosh symbol and the Tiffany trademark. You also get a pink t-shirt that says "Finisher." At the TNT tent, not only did I get free lunch, but I also got a pin that says, "13.1" along with the TNT logo. Mommy Hernandez was right...it's all about the free stuff! Lol!
Needless to say, I'm damn proud of myself! As I look back at how 2007 started, I was a wreck. But as the year progressed, it only got better. The decision to do things for myself has made me stronger and more confident. Through this marathon, I wanted to prove to everyone that I AM okay...that I AM moving forward...and that divorce has not brought me down. It really did bite the big one, but with time, the hurt lessened a little bit every day. I stuck to my resolution that 2007 would be MY year..and it has been. And hey, it doesn't hurt that some of my clothes are feeling a little looser, too! ;-)
Running this marathon is a huge accomplishment for me...and I'm determined, more than ever, to do even bigger things in this second-chance-at-happiness-life of mine.
.JPG)
Thanks ya'll for the support...it's meant the world to me. Much love...
p.s.
Pics to come soon!
p.p.s.
I'm S-O-R-E as hell! Didn't make it to work because, well, I just couldn't move...but I did find some energy to head to NIKETOWN for guess what...a FREE massage!
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
ACSI Convention
Last week, along with three other teachers, I was sent to Sacramento for a teacher convention. ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International) was a 2-day event held at the Sacramento Convention Center downtown. I was pretty excited because not only have I never been sent anywhere for work before, but it's rare that I find myself up in our state capitol.
The two days were packed with attending seminar after seminar on various aspects of education. What made it so unique was the fact that everything was based and focused on the Christian perspective. It was wonderful how each speaker began with a word of prayer. I went to this convention not knowing what to expect, but coming back with many hopes and aspirations for what I can do as an educator. It was inspiring to be in this huge auditorium filled with Christian teachers! Plus, one of the highlights of the event was the free concert by an a'capella Christian group called RESCUE. They led the praise and worship time and the blend of voices was simply beautiful. Of course I had to get their cds and starstruck me had to get it signed- lol!
I felt like I was in college all over again as I traveled from class to class. Ya'll know me, I'm one of those people who has to take notes. I got to pick and choose which seminars to attend, but at the same time, I also had to consider which ones would be best suited to bring back to school. The deal with school sending teachers to conferences is that we are required to present what we learned to the rest of the faculty. Kinda like giving them the seminar material in a nutshell. In my opinion, I think it would be incredibly beneficial for all teachers to attend a conference such as this simply because we are a Christian school. In fact, there were quite a few schools who basically declared a day-off for the students so that their entire staff could attend. It just seems appropriate is all I'm saying. Talk about working in a "kuriput" school- sheesh! LOL!
Anyways, aside from RESCUE, a couple classes resonated. These had to do with serving overseas in International Schools and/or using my talents to serve as a missionary.
There is something called the 10/40 WINDOW...I never heard of it before. 10/40 is basically the degrees longitude and latitude of the equator...and the countries that fall in this window are the ones most in need of hearing the Word of God. What makes this "window" so unique is that foreign missionaries are basically banned...and more often than not, the dangers are magnified if you are not a native. There are programs to financially support native missionaries, but at the same time, the numbers just do not cut it. Incredibly, there are so many who choose to go, knowing the risks of danger, but doing it for the sole purpose of winning them to Christ...and I am inspired beyond belief that this is something that I have to do.
There has been this "burden in my heart" for the past few years...I feel that God is calling me to go and serve overseas. I can't quite explain it really. Often, I question whether or not I am suitable to be among those who serve...I don't feel that my Biblical knowledge is strong and yet, my desire to go grows stronger each time. I was reminded that God often uses the weak to do His work. My co-worker, whom I roomed with, offered a perspective that never crossed my mind. Seeing that all of my possessions were left behind in Minnesota, I was left with the basics- my clothes and my car. I always joke with people...because it really makes for a funny story now...that I'm like those immigrant stories you hear..."...when I first came to America, I only had $5.00 in my pocket!..." When I left Minnesota, I literally had $20 to my name...and boy, let me tell you, I learned quickly how to make that $20 last! But perhaps God was preparing me to live a life with just the basic necessities so that I can go overseas??? Who knows? He sure does work in mysterious ways, doesn't He?
All I know is that I feel more convicted to go more than ever. The timing couldn't be better. I don't have a husband or family to worry about...and it just seems like THIS is my moment to give back. I'm not saying that I'm leaving tomorrow...but it's definitely something I've been contemplating for the near future.
Overall, it was a great trip. On the last day, I decided to take a fun class- a tour of the state capitol. Little did I know that it was only a 5-minute walk from the convention center! The only negative thing about that was the rain...the pouring rain! But aside from the cool things to see inside, the surrounding gardens was just as beautiful and enough for me to roam around in the rain and take pictures. Hahah...crazy lady with the camera! Had a good time hanging with the teachers I went with...not a crowd I'd usually hang with, but we made for good fun and conversations nonetheless. Depending where I am next year (will I be overseas? serving in that 10/40 window?), I would love to attend ACSI again. Here are some pics of lovely Sac!
Last week, along with three other teachers, I was sent to Sacramento for a teacher convention. ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International) was a 2-day event held at the Sacramento Convention Center downtown. I was pretty excited because not only have I never been sent anywhere for work before, but it's rare that I find myself up in our state capitol.
The two days were packed with attending seminar after seminar on various aspects of education. What made it so unique was the fact that everything was based and focused on the Christian perspective. It was wonderful how each speaker began with a word of prayer. I went to this convention not knowing what to expect, but coming back with many hopes and aspirations for what I can do as an educator. It was inspiring to be in this huge auditorium filled with Christian teachers! Plus, one of the highlights of the event was the free concert by an a'capella Christian group called RESCUE. They led the praise and worship time and the blend of voices was simply beautiful. Of course I had to get their cds and starstruck me had to get it signed- lol!
I felt like I was in college all over again as I traveled from class to class. Ya'll know me, I'm one of those people who has to take notes. I got to pick and choose which seminars to attend, but at the same time, I also had to consider which ones would be best suited to bring back to school. The deal with school sending teachers to conferences is that we are required to present what we learned to the rest of the faculty. Kinda like giving them the seminar material in a nutshell. In my opinion, I think it would be incredibly beneficial for all teachers to attend a conference such as this simply because we are a Christian school. In fact, there were quite a few schools who basically declared a day-off for the students so that their entire staff could attend. It just seems appropriate is all I'm saying. Talk about working in a "kuriput" school- sheesh! LOL!
Anyways, aside from RESCUE, a couple classes resonated. These had to do with serving overseas in International Schools and/or using my talents to serve as a missionary.
There is something called the 10/40 WINDOW...I never heard of it before. 10/40 is basically the degrees longitude and latitude of the equator...and the countries that fall in this window are the ones most in need of hearing the Word of God. What makes this "window" so unique is that foreign missionaries are basically banned...and more often than not, the dangers are magnified if you are not a native. There are programs to financially support native missionaries, but at the same time, the numbers just do not cut it. Incredibly, there are so many who choose to go, knowing the risks of danger, but doing it for the sole purpose of winning them to Christ...and I am inspired beyond belief that this is something that I have to do.
There has been this "burden in my heart" for the past few years...I feel that God is calling me to go and serve overseas. I can't quite explain it really. Often, I question whether or not I am suitable to be among those who serve...I don't feel that my Biblical knowledge is strong and yet, my desire to go grows stronger each time. I was reminded that God often uses the weak to do His work. My co-worker, whom I roomed with, offered a perspective that never crossed my mind. Seeing that all of my possessions were left behind in Minnesota, I was left with the basics- my clothes and my car. I always joke with people...because it really makes for a funny story now...that I'm like those immigrant stories you hear..."...when I first came to America, I only had $5.00 in my pocket!..." When I left Minnesota, I literally had $20 to my name...and boy, let me tell you, I learned quickly how to make that $20 last! But perhaps God was preparing me to live a life with just the basic necessities so that I can go overseas??? Who knows? He sure does work in mysterious ways, doesn't He?
All I know is that I feel more convicted to go more than ever. The timing couldn't be better. I don't have a husband or family to worry about...and it just seems like THIS is my moment to give back. I'm not saying that I'm leaving tomorrow...but it's definitely something I've been contemplating for the near future.
Overall, it was a great trip. On the last day, I decided to take a fun class- a tour of the state capitol. Little did I know that it was only a 5-minute walk from the convention center! The only negative thing about that was the rain...the pouring rain! But aside from the cool things to see inside, the surrounding gardens was just as beautiful and enough for me to roam around in the rain and take pictures. Hahah...crazy lady with the camera! Had a good time hanging with the teachers I went with...not a crowd I'd usually hang with, but we made for good fun and conversations nonetheless. Depending where I am next year (will I be overseas? serving in that 10/40 window?), I would love to attend ACSI again. Here are some pics of lovely Sac!
Monday, October 15, 2007
PACE 40th Anniversary
When I look back at my SF State days, I swear, the only thing that is worth remembering are my experiences with PACE. PACE (Pilipino American Collegiate Endeavor) is where it all started for me...my college life, my college experiences, the place where I met the friends who I now call my family. The saying is true, "...the friends you meet in college are the ones you'll have for life..." It holds true for me and I know it's true for many others. To think that a tiny, little office in the Student Union could be the center of so many unforgettable moments...there were many beginnings, many endings, much drama, and above all, much laughter. Who would've thought that a closet-sized room would hold so many memories...some of which I cannot even mention here! LOL! Yes, yes, some things are meant to stay on the DL...
The organization itself has a rich history...and this year marks the 40th anniversary. I won't go into the details simply because those who read this blog already know it...but it blows my mind to think that out of a student strike in 1967 sparked a new era in which PACE was formed and where a college of Ethnic Studies was founded. While PACE has definitely had its ups and downs and its cycle of being social and political, we have to remember its roots. We have to remember the struggles that the founding members went through just to have an organization established. As was read in an email from founder Pat Salavar, he had no idea how far PACE would go. He had no idea that it would last more than three years...and look at it now- 40 years and going strong!
I will say this...I am proud to have been part of PACE. I was lucky enough be serve in the leadership as CORE (Cultural, Internship, and Finance) and even luckier still, to serve with my best friends. As I told Keyopes this past weekend, it really was my peers who inspired me to step up in those leadership roles. Never in my life would I have thought I'd be able to do it, but my friends pushed me and encouraged me...and for that, I am forever thankful.
College was most definitely the time where I was the most politically active and aware. It was the time in which I was most active in the Pilipino community, aside from my involvement in Pilipino folkdancing. I learned SO MUCH about my history and most importantly, I learned so much about myself as a person and as a Pinay. These years in PACE formed me into the person I am...along with great friends, it really was the best years of my life. I look fondly back at those days and I am proud to say that the friends that I had then are still the same friends I have today. What a blessing!
-----------------------------
It amazes me that it's been 10 years since the 30th Anniversary! I think what made that event so wonderful was the fact that we actually had many of the founding members present: Pat Salavar, Judge Ronald Quidachay, Alex Soria, and of course, Dan Begonia and Dan Gonzalez to name a few. This time around, only the Dans were in attendance...and they were presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
The oldest CORE in attendance were actually Keyopes, Dr. C, and myself. We had a good time reminiscing, but all the same, wishing that more of the gang was there. The event was held at Ristorante Portofino in Pacifica...a nice lil' restaurant right by the water. It was a night of appetizers, drinks, slideshows, stories, and lots of laughter....lot of networking going on as well. It's neat to see how much PACE has grown (and well, how much has changed...).
Here a few pics!
Ristorante Portofino in Pacifica
Setting sun.JPG)
Keyopes, Uncle Dan Gonzalez, Uncle Dan Begonia, MnM, and Dr. C
.JPG)
the Camantigues and Prof. Begonia
.JPG)
Pictorials...should we have done a PROM pose?!.JPG)
Generation gap, my ass! We still look GOOD! Lol!
.JPG)
When I look back at my SF State days, I swear, the only thing that is worth remembering are my experiences with PACE. PACE (Pilipino American Collegiate Endeavor) is where it all started for me...my college life, my college experiences, the place where I met the friends who I now call my family. The saying is true, "...the friends you meet in college are the ones you'll have for life..." It holds true for me and I know it's true for many others. To think that a tiny, little office in the Student Union could be the center of so many unforgettable moments...there were many beginnings, many endings, much drama, and above all, much laughter. Who would've thought that a closet-sized room would hold so many memories...some of which I cannot even mention here! LOL! Yes, yes, some things are meant to stay on the DL...
The organization itself has a rich history...and this year marks the 40th anniversary. I won't go into the details simply because those who read this blog already know it...but it blows my mind to think that out of a student strike in 1967 sparked a new era in which PACE was formed and where a college of Ethnic Studies was founded. While PACE has definitely had its ups and downs and its cycle of being social and political, we have to remember its roots. We have to remember the struggles that the founding members went through just to have an organization established. As was read in an email from founder Pat Salavar, he had no idea how far PACE would go. He had no idea that it would last more than three years...and look at it now- 40 years and going strong!
I will say this...I am proud to have been part of PACE. I was lucky enough be serve in the leadership as CORE (Cultural, Internship, and Finance) and even luckier still, to serve with my best friends. As I told Keyopes this past weekend, it really was my peers who inspired me to step up in those leadership roles. Never in my life would I have thought I'd be able to do it, but my friends pushed me and encouraged me...and for that, I am forever thankful.
College was most definitely the time where I was the most politically active and aware. It was the time in which I was most active in the Pilipino community, aside from my involvement in Pilipino folkdancing. I learned SO MUCH about my history and most importantly, I learned so much about myself as a person and as a Pinay. These years in PACE formed me into the person I am...along with great friends, it really was the best years of my life. I look fondly back at those days and I am proud to say that the friends that I had then are still the same friends I have today. What a blessing!
-----------------------------
It amazes me that it's been 10 years since the 30th Anniversary! I think what made that event so wonderful was the fact that we actually had many of the founding members present: Pat Salavar, Judge Ronald Quidachay, Alex Soria, and of course, Dan Begonia and Dan Gonzalez to name a few. This time around, only the Dans were in attendance...and they were presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
The oldest CORE in attendance were actually Keyopes, Dr. C, and myself. We had a good time reminiscing, but all the same, wishing that more of the gang was there. The event was held at Ristorante Portofino in Pacifica...a nice lil' restaurant right by the water. It was a night of appetizers, drinks, slideshows, stories, and lots of laughter....lot of networking going on as well. It's neat to see how much PACE has grown (and well, how much has changed...).
Here a few pics!
Ristorante Portofino in Pacifica
Setting sun
.JPG)
Keyopes, Uncle Dan Gonzalez, Uncle Dan Begonia, MnM, and Dr. C
.JPG)
the Camantigues and Prof. Begonia
.JPG)
Pictorials...should we have done a PROM pose?!
.JPG)
Generation gap, my ass! We still look GOOD! Lol!
.JPG)
Monday, October 08, 2007
MnM's Holiday
One of the definite perks of being a teacher is getting all of the holidays off- thanks Christopher Columbus...even though you really didn't discover America!
I actually had the day fabulously planned out to a tee, but unfortunately, I slept through the entire morning! I woke up with that "oh crap!" sinking feeling, thinking that I wasted the whole day...but once I was up, I was determined to make the most of it.
Because of the wonderful weather that the city has been blessed with these past few days, I decided to go biking. It was my intention to head out to Pier 27 and take a free tour of one of the ships, but once I got there, the lines were so long. Aren't ya'll supposed to be at work, people?! Instead, I ended up biking up and down the Embarcadero, weaving in and out of tourists, playing tourist myself as I whipped out my camera, and being sadly disappointed that there weren't as many sailors out and about! Lol! I'm kidding on that one...remember, I'm swearing ALL military guys off! Seriously though, it was a nice day to NOT work.
I parked right under the Bay Bridge around the corner of Gordon Biersh, stopped along Pier 5 (or is it 7?), oogled the ships from afar, and went all the way down to Pier 39. By the time I got there, a Navy band had just finished performing....cuties. The weather was perfect downtown...I could've rode up and down a couple more times, but my meter ran out.
I contemplated heading back home to my pile of papers...said SCREW IT...and made a u-turn in the direction of the Golden Gate Bridge. Found myself at the Marina (wasn't I just here for the Blue Angels airshow?), biked from Fort Mason all the way down to Crissy Field, just past the Sports Basement. By this time, there was a definite chill in the air as the fog began rolling in through the Golden Gate. I got to take some pics and even found my way to the beach- I seriously didn't know it was even there!
After a total of about three hours, I started to feel it in my legs. Most people wouldn't think that was very long, but we're talking about me here- lol. Yes, yes, even though most of it is flat, just the constant pedaling got me tired. I'm such a wimp! But hey, it felt good to be out and about, spending the day moseying around the city on a bike. There was something totally therapeutic about it really.
From the Marina, I usually take Geary up towards Ocean Beach. And man, talk about climate change! It was nothing but white fog...and it was c-o-l-d! But hey, that's the city for you!
It's hit me recently...I'm beginning to fall in love with the city once again. There really is so much to offer and do here. While I once pondered leaving, either to the Peninsula or to the East Bay, my heart is set in staying here. I have my eyes set on the Sunset or Marina...I may change my mind, but for now, that's how I feel.
Here's some pics from my day- enjoy!
One of the definite perks of being a teacher is getting all of the holidays off- thanks Christopher Columbus...even though you really didn't discover America!
I actually had the day fabulously planned out to a tee, but unfortunately, I slept through the entire morning! I woke up with that "oh crap!" sinking feeling, thinking that I wasted the whole day...but once I was up, I was determined to make the most of it.
Because of the wonderful weather that the city has been blessed with these past few days, I decided to go biking. It was my intention to head out to Pier 27 and take a free tour of one of the ships, but once I got there, the lines were so long. Aren't ya'll supposed to be at work, people?! Instead, I ended up biking up and down the Embarcadero, weaving in and out of tourists, playing tourist myself as I whipped out my camera, and being sadly disappointed that there weren't as many sailors out and about! Lol! I'm kidding on that one...remember, I'm swearing ALL military guys off! Seriously though, it was a nice day to NOT work.
I parked right under the Bay Bridge around the corner of Gordon Biersh, stopped along Pier 5 (or is it 7?), oogled the ships from afar, and went all the way down to Pier 39. By the time I got there, a Navy band had just finished performing....cuties. The weather was perfect downtown...I could've rode up and down a couple more times, but my meter ran out.
I contemplated heading back home to my pile of papers...said SCREW IT...and made a u-turn in the direction of the Golden Gate Bridge. Found myself at the Marina (wasn't I just here for the Blue Angels airshow?), biked from Fort Mason all the way down to Crissy Field, just past the Sports Basement. By this time, there was a definite chill in the air as the fog began rolling in through the Golden Gate. I got to take some pics and even found my way to the beach- I seriously didn't know it was even there!
After a total of about three hours, I started to feel it in my legs. Most people wouldn't think that was very long, but we're talking about me here- lol. Yes, yes, even though most of it is flat, just the constant pedaling got me tired. I'm such a wimp! But hey, it felt good to be out and about, spending the day moseying around the city on a bike. There was something totally therapeutic about it really.
From the Marina, I usually take Geary up towards Ocean Beach. And man, talk about climate change! It was nothing but white fog...and it was c-o-l-d! But hey, that's the city for you!
It's hit me recently...I'm beginning to fall in love with the city once again. There really is so much to offer and do here. While I once pondered leaving, either to the Peninsula or to the East Bay, my heart is set in staying here. I have my eyes set on the Sunset or Marina...I may change my mind, but for now, that's how I feel.
Here's some pics from my day- enjoy!
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Where Does the Time Go?
MnM's lil' update...in no particular order
Okay, so it's been a couple of weeks since I last updated. It really got crazy after Back To School night...I got deathly sick (that's what it felt like anyways...), had a few dinners that I just HAD to attend, and oh yes, on top of that, still go to work. I did leave work early one day, but I basically tried to be a trooper and ride it out. My kids were, surprisingly, very good on the days that I was sick. Works wonders when you ASK them to be on their best behavior...ironically when I started feeling better, they didn't bother to be quite as cooperative as before. Ha...and so goes another day in my class.
Marathon training. Shit. Because of said sickness, I lost a good week of training. I always expect to get sick in the beginning of the school year. Getting used to a new set of kids' germs is taxing, but after the initial whatever it is I had, I'm good for the rest of the year. Training, on the other hand, has slowed down. It's coming down to the wire...October 21 is just around the corner! I'm not totally buggin' about it because I'm not doing it for the time, but still, I want to do my best and make it over that finish line in one piece. Maybe I'm whining about it too much, but after I finish, I know for a fact that it will be a major accomplishment that I will be proud to have completed. Pray for me, ya'll!
So....Desperate Housewives, eh? I'm not a fan, only watched a few episodes when it first debuted, but wow...that comment. It's ignorance and downright f*cked up. Of course, had it been any other cultural group, there would be outrage nonetheless, but man. My cousin in Texas took the opportunity to call the local radio station who were discussing the matter. 'Course everything is recorded and then played back, right? When things aired, all the comments basically reflected the whole "what is everyone so mad about?" because the Philippines is "a country of whores". WTF? This is in freakin' Texas....good Lord. By the time they aired my cousin's comments, she said that hers was the ONLY comment against the episode. That's pretty freakin' sad. Makes me sad for our country...and yah, totally peeved. Sometimes, I swear, I think it would be better to live elsewhere where there aren't so many ignorant and close-minded idiots.
MySpace. Lol! I can't believe I'm going to freely admit this, but that site is so damn addicting! Not that I have hundreds or thousands of friends...in fact, I only have 25, most of whom are my younger cousins. It really is a great way to keep in touch with them and to see what they are up to. Like D had mentioned in his blog, I, too, am constantly checking if I've got comments or whatnot. Plus, I love updating my moods and the music that plays...lol...it's pathetic!
Apartment hunting...sucks. But it seems like it may be in the stars for me sometime soon...keeping my fingers crossed!
Dating....LOL....yah, that TOTALLY SUCKS! Okay, I'll admit it now...it's been "interesting" to say the least. I'm not adverse to meeting people for some Starbucks, but all I gotta say is that if YOU ask ME out...and then I have to pay for EVERYTHING? You are a waste of my time...a total DUD! I want to be impressed...is that so much to ask for? Apparently! Living the single life among the rest of my married/happily taken friends has, I've found, provided much entertainment in their eyes. Lol...it's all good! Just as in my (failed)marriage, it's all about living and learning. And oh yes, it's gotta be about having FUN, too! lol...still, no more duds! Can't a gal be swept off her feet???
Fleet Week. I love watching the Blue Angels! Went to the Marina Green, met up with my sis and family, and enjoyed the airshow....was totally awesome! I haven't been for a while and to be among the crowds of people was exciting. Not sure if I can do the crowds all the time, but to hear all the gasping, the oooh and aaaahhh, was fun. It was a beautiful day in the city, perfect to be out and about. Pictures to come later...
Back to the apartment hunting thing...I was reading the paper today and saw how airfare out of the country is dropping for certain places. My goal is to be out of the house by Christmas...BUT, if I push that out of the way, might I be able to head out to, say, Europe for a week??? 'Tis funny, too.....airfare to Ireland is the cheapest! Ironic!
We shall see....
MnM's lil' update...in no particular order
Okay, so it's been a couple of weeks since I last updated. It really got crazy after Back To School night...I got deathly sick (that's what it felt like anyways...), had a few dinners that I just HAD to attend, and oh yes, on top of that, still go to work. I did leave work early one day, but I basically tried to be a trooper and ride it out. My kids were, surprisingly, very good on the days that I was sick. Works wonders when you ASK them to be on their best behavior...ironically when I started feeling better, they didn't bother to be quite as cooperative as before. Ha...and so goes another day in my class.
Marathon training. Shit. Because of said sickness, I lost a good week of training. I always expect to get sick in the beginning of the school year. Getting used to a new set of kids' germs is taxing, but after the initial whatever it is I had, I'm good for the rest of the year. Training, on the other hand, has slowed down. It's coming down to the wire...October 21 is just around the corner! I'm not totally buggin' about it because I'm not doing it for the time, but still, I want to do my best and make it over that finish line in one piece. Maybe I'm whining about it too much, but after I finish, I know for a fact that it will be a major accomplishment that I will be proud to have completed. Pray for me, ya'll!
So....Desperate Housewives, eh? I'm not a fan, only watched a few episodes when it first debuted, but wow...that comment. It's ignorance and downright f*cked up. Of course, had it been any other cultural group, there would be outrage nonetheless, but man. My cousin in Texas took the opportunity to call the local radio station who were discussing the matter. 'Course everything is recorded and then played back, right? When things aired, all the comments basically reflected the whole "what is everyone so mad about?" because the Philippines is "a country of whores". WTF? This is in freakin' Texas....good Lord. By the time they aired my cousin's comments, she said that hers was the ONLY comment against the episode. That's pretty freakin' sad. Makes me sad for our country...and yah, totally peeved. Sometimes, I swear, I think it would be better to live elsewhere where there aren't so many ignorant and close-minded idiots.
MySpace. Lol! I can't believe I'm going to freely admit this, but that site is so damn addicting! Not that I have hundreds or thousands of friends...in fact, I only have 25, most of whom are my younger cousins. It really is a great way to keep in touch with them and to see what they are up to. Like D had mentioned in his blog, I, too, am constantly checking if I've got comments or whatnot. Plus, I love updating my moods and the music that plays...lol...it's pathetic!
Apartment hunting...sucks. But it seems like it may be in the stars for me sometime soon...keeping my fingers crossed!
Dating....LOL....yah, that TOTALLY SUCKS! Okay, I'll admit it now...it's been "interesting" to say the least. I'm not adverse to meeting people for some Starbucks, but all I gotta say is that if YOU ask ME out...and then I have to pay for EVERYTHING? You are a waste of my time...a total DUD! I want to be impressed...is that so much to ask for? Apparently! Living the single life among the rest of my married/happily taken friends has, I've found, provided much entertainment in their eyes. Lol...it's all good! Just as in my (failed)marriage, it's all about living and learning. And oh yes, it's gotta be about having FUN, too! lol...still, no more duds! Can't a gal be swept off her feet???
Fleet Week. I love watching the Blue Angels! Went to the Marina Green, met up with my sis and family, and enjoyed the airshow....was totally awesome! I haven't been for a while and to be among the crowds of people was exciting. Not sure if I can do the crowds all the time, but to hear all the gasping, the oooh and aaaahhh, was fun. It was a beautiful day in the city, perfect to be out and about. Pictures to come later...
Back to the apartment hunting thing...I was reading the paper today and saw how airfare out of the country is dropping for certain places. My goal is to be out of the house by Christmas...BUT, if I push that out of the way, might I be able to head out to, say, Europe for a week??? 'Tis funny, too.....airfare to Ireland is the cheapest! Ironic!
We shall see....
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