pics from Adoy's wedding!

Wwwaaaahhhhhh!!!!! All the more I felt sad....









more pics here...

Adoy's big day!

Today is my brother Adoy’s big day! I think it’ll be over soon or maybe it has ended already. Anyway, Papa sent me a text message while on our way to work… around 745 A.M. (well actually we were to stop by at a store to buy a phone card). He said “call at this number _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _”. It was Mama who answered my call and she said to wait a little bit as they’re finishing up the bouquet tossing. We can’t really understand each other maybe due to the loud background. Suddenly, I heard someone said “we have a message directly from New York City” and the conversation went as follows:

Emcee : Hello!
Faye : Hi!
Emcee : Hello! Ate Faye… We’re here live from the Philippines. Everyone can hear you. What’s your message for Masson and Lanie? (pause) Hello!
Faye : (choking up) Hold on! I’m trying to contain myself! (My voice already cracking up) Now I’m crying! (Ehem!) I thought I’ll be okay?! But I wasn’t really able to sleep last night. Anyway, Adoy… Lanie… I feel really bad not being there. I’m sorry I am not there to celebrate this special day of yours. You know the reason why and there’s really nothing I could do about it. Congratulations and best wishes to both of you! They say marriage make two people as one but remember that you are still 2 different individuals. Love each other… accept each other’s differences… there will be problems along the way but I’m sure you’ll be alright… especially with the support of the family. (pause) I think that’s it!
Emcee : Ok. Thanks Ate Faye! Oh by the way, I’m a medium on a t-shirt.
Faye : O…..K….?! :)

(There were some parts of the conversation in Filipino and maybe some other parts that I can’t exactly remember anymore.)

Then I was off the air and was just talking to Adoy. I said “how’s everything?” He said “good! It’s like a variety show. Hehehe” He told me he’ll just send me a copy of the video. I didn’t anymore keep him long and hang up soon.

Oh what an awful scene I made! Haha! I was so ashamed and all the more I felt bad when I hang up the phone. Grrr! I really thought I am ok but last night… knowing the fact that they’re all busy… everybody’s there but me… I somehow started feeling so upset to the fact that I wasn’t there. Well what can I do…

"Chuseok"

Our company provided the lunch today in celebration of “Chuseok” (Korean Thanksgiving).

“Chuseok”, is a three-day harvest celebration demonstrating the importance of family to the Korean Society. Family members gather to prepare food and honor their ancestors. The celebration is usually done in the house of the eldest son.

Here are some of the foods we had earlier:

Labor Day weekend

We had a 3-day weekend last week being Labor Day on 9/1. It was kind of tiring having gone to Tanger Outlets on Saturday and to the Queens Center Mall on Sunday. The “balikbayan” box is usually being picked up before October ends to make sure it gets there on or before Christmas. There are still a lot of things we need to buy though. I think we have enough time…

NY Adventures and beyond...

I have been in the US for almost 7 years now and while I constantly blog about my day to day experiences, I thought of creating another blog which will be more précised and descriptive of how it’s really like… not only in NY but in other states too as we continue to discover what this country has to offer. See you there!

driving experience...

IFC keeps on telling him that I have to learn driving and get used to it as well so I’ve been constantly practicing lately. 2 things about driving in NY… 1) there are just so many cars on the road; and 2) a lot of drivers are aggressive.

For a couple of times, he asked me if I can now drive in the highway. I said not yet. I still have to get comfortable and maybe avoid feeling tensed all the time. I drove home on Tuesday using the local road. Last night, I asked IFC if I could drive again and he said yes but he wanted me to use the highway. I asked him if he thinks I’m ready. He just said, “When are you going to try it? You would never know unless you do.” There are 2 highways that we can use…Grand Central Parkway (GCP) and Long Island Expressway (LIE). GCP has a lot of curves and bumps so IFC said I should use LIE until I get comfy. Well, I managed to get us home safe though I must admit there was a lot of traffic so I wasn’t running the state’s speed limit of 50.

Here are some lessons I learned from my driving experience so far… well for what I remember…

1) We went to Filene’s one time that when I parked, the divider line was in between the car. I had to reverse 2 or 3 times before I managed to park the car in between the 2 lines. IFC said that if I want to park somewhere on my right, I have to somehow position the car on my left so I will have room and that it won’t be skewed.

2) I was in the middle lane and someone from my right cut me to go to the left lane. I didn’t realize that right away. All I thought was he was cutting me to go to the middle lane and continue driving. I was still pressing the gas when I was supposed to be hitting the breaks. IFC (who is on the passenger side) pulled the wheel in a way that we wouldn’t also hit a car should there be one on the right lane.

3) I still have to work on my “judgment”… sometimes I go a little fast when turning; sometimes I thought I have enough space from the car in front of me that even if I don’t press the gas, the car is still running and suddenly I will realize I have to hit the breaks; or sometimes IFC tells me to avoid the holes/bumps on the road. I try but there are times that instead of avoiding it, all the more I drive on it.

4) Last night, I was unaware I went out of my lane 2 times. IFC said to always feel the wheel… that I have to constantly move it a little since the highway is not really straight.

5) The worst of all, I was driving on a two-way street with 2 lanes each. The oncoming car was partly on my lane (maybe he avoided something… I really don’t know) that instead of stepping on the breaks, I avoided it mostly taking the right lane. Thank God there was no car on my right! IFC said I definitely have to step on the breaks in that case. He said I can only do what I did if I looked into the side mirror to make sure there was no car and that I don’t have to take that much space in doing so.

Bottom line, I think I’m learning little by little… but I definitely need more time…

on being "impulsive"

I find it really difficult to accept the “blame” when I know I’m not the person primarily responsible for it. I hope people would learn how to think first before saying anything. Being impulsive, more often than not, can be offensive!

Happy Birthday, Tita Aba!

"sari-sari" store

My parents own 2 small stores in San Andres Bukid Market which offers dry goods... flour, sugar, and salt to name a few. I was really busy with the wedding preparation that I didn’t even have the time to pay a visit when I went home for a vacation in 2005. I know my father was disappointed with that. And so, when I was there last December 2007, I dropped by one early AM and even stayed for a few minutes to take some pictures (using my cell phone). :)

fun! fun! fun!

Most people who actually know me would probably find it weird (just like how I feel), that I enjoy watching the Olympics. I must admit though that IFC being so into sports has been a great influence.

day of the surgery...

Yesterday was the day!

As we were about to leave the apartment, I suddenly felt the need to do #2. I wasn’t sure if it’s because I was nervous or I really had to. Anyway, we were supposed to be at the Ambulatory no later than 830 AM. We arrived there at exactly 824 AM.

The paperwork at the Admitting was taking long. My doctor went out to the lobby and spoke to me… I introduced IFC as well. The nurse called me soon after. IFC and I went to the dressing room then proceeded to Exam Room 4 for preliminary testing… BP was taken, medical history was reviewed, allergies to drugs and latex, etc. etc. The anaesthesiologist came after, discussed how the surgery will go… I’ll be put to sleep (with a general anaesthesia), will breath in an oxygen tube, will have to have an endoscopy, laparoscopy, hysteroscopy, tubal lavage and some other procedures that I can’t remember the names.

Then, we walked towards the operating room (OR). I was really nervous that time. All the more I got scared when I saw about 7 people (maybe more) inside the OR not to mention all those apparatus including the lights on the ceiling that I just saw on TV before. I laid down the table. A nurse started putting patches on my chest… I guess to monitor my vitals. The anaesthesiologist on my left started putting the IV. She said I’ll feel something like a bee sting and some kind of burning on my hand. While she was doing that, she asked me what my favorite form of relaxation was. I said “beach”. She asked “where?” I said “nothing specific as long as there’s water”. She insisted so I said “let’s say the Philippines where I’m from”. She said “I’m not taking you there… you can’t relax in a place where your family is”. How about I take you to Maldives?” The nurse on my right put the oxygen mask and said “breathe normally”. Then, I looked at the ceiling, it got blurry, and the next time I know I was in the recovery room.

My doctor approached me and said that everything is normal. The left fallopian tube turned out to be open… which is in contradiction to what my doctor thought with the result of the hysterogram. He said he’ll see me in a month and probably start giving me the “injectables” as supposed to clomid. I then assumed that he just did the laparoscopy and endoscopy. He didn’t have to do the rest. I mean I don’t see the need to be dilating a tube that is open in the 1st place.

Soon, IFC was there beside me.

A nurse said I can’t be discharged unless I pee at least a 100 cc. So beside the dextrose I have, I tried drinking as much fluids as I can just so I can pee and eventually go home. The 1st try, the nurse opened the faucet (which I think has a psychological effect to help) and left me in the bathroom. I couldn’t. I mean I felt my bladder was heavy but it just wasn’t coming out. I went back inside. And while the nurse was taking off the IV, I felt I needed to go. And so I did but the container showed it was a little less than 100 cc. But thank goodness the nurse said I passed.

IFC helped me dressed up. He got the car and a nurse walked me to it.

We were still in the highway when I felt again the need to pee. We didn’t know what to do. I put my jeans under my legs in case I can’t hold it any longer. IFC said “can you still manage it till we reach Kohls? “ I said I’ll try. But I can’t anymore so he stopped by Applebee’s and I told the lady (while showing my wrist tag) that I just came out of the hospital and I really need to use the bathroom. She was nice enough to let me go.

Then, I was home.

nice now, nasty later

I just don’t understand why some people are nice when they need something from you and yet the annoyance in their voice is very obvious when it’s the other way around…

out-patient surgery

Remember that hysterogram I had on June?! Well it turned out that my left fallopian tube is blocked (based on the pictures from the x-ray). My doctor said he doesn’t know why so he needs to perform a laparoscopy. And for him to unblock the tube, he needs to do a hysteroscopy as well.

The doctor said it’s not really a problem since the right tube is open. The chances of getting pregnant are lower though. The thing is… if I ovulate on my bad side, then I’ll never get pregnant!

Anyway, I’m having the surgery this Thursday… must admit I’m kind of scared!

feeling cold in a hot weather?!

My desk is by the window. You’ll see the tress and even the cars passing by. I felt cold around noon today for whatever reason… I really don’t know. So to help ease that feeling, I turned on the wall heater I have near me. Yes in the middle of summer! Haha! I was planning on turning it off after a few minutes but I completely forgot. Then, 2 of my co-workers walked towards the window and one noticed it and asked... "Is that heat coming out?". I felt so embarrassed but didn’t really take it seriously. I thought that’s funny! :)

Roosevelt Field Mall

Nothing really special or interesting happened over the weekend. I practiced driving as usual. I must admit I still get a little panicky whenever I encounter aggressive drivers. IFC keeps on reminding me to be alert at all times. You can never tell you know.

Anyway, we also went to Roosevelt Field Mall… didn’t buy anything though; Walmart… got some groceries and supplies; and we ate at this “restaurant” that we were so disappointed with the quality of the food and service as well. IFC wants to go to this restaurant ever since but we don’t have any branch near us. We didn’t have second thoughts upon seeing the restaurant near the mall. But I don’t think we’re going back there again ever.

"Pepe"

Pepe (Grandpa in French), as we used to call him, was Tita Laling’s father-in-law… a very warm-hearted and hard-working person. He was always in his “cardigan”, dressed neatly as if he had some place to go to. I can also remember how he was at the dining table… didn’t want any mess, always tidying up while eating. I guess it’s the “military background” that he had. He always talked in a gentle manner. And most importantly, he was a family man and a devout Christian.

Tita Gie has been inviting us to go to Tita Laling for the 4th of July weekend. I said no at 1st having been there just last May. Then, Tita Laling said that Tito Ken had to request an IV for Pepe as he wasn’t eating anymore and that the doctor “sort of” gave him just 2 more days to live. IFC suggested that we go as we can’t make it during the week if something happens to Pepe. And so we did. I felt so bad upon seeing his condition. He lost so much weight… imagine an 87 year old weighing only 60lbs. But he looked peaceful though. I really thought he was ready to leave… too tired and just wanted to rest.

Anyway, we had a little celebration for my birthday on July 5th. Tita Gie made some bbq, cooked pansit sotanghon and adobong kangkong. Tita Laling bought me a cake too. Weng was there with Billy so we had some fun time.

But the next morning, Pepe died. And in as much as we want to stay for the funeral, we just can’t.

To Pepe: Wherever you are, I know you’re happy and at peace. We will always include you in our prayers. You will be missed…

Have you seen it yet?

I read the reviews online (including an “Oscar buzz” for Heath Ledger) for the movie The Dark Knight... people were raving about how great it was. IFC and I watched it last Sunday. All I can say is… I couldn’t agree more! There was no dull moment. In fact, people were clapping from time to time. The actors were great. Christian Bale has proven it once again and while I’m not really a fan of Heath’s, I think he deserves the recognition (though I read concerns of some parents on the violent role he had in the movie).

What are you waiting for then?

2008 birthday greetings!

Thanks to everyone who greeted me on my birthday… email, text messages, phone calls (Tito Ariel) and in person. It was greatly appreciated.

Greetings from family and friends (in exact form):

*****
Hope you have a good one with all the July 4 fireworks !

Tita Malu

*****
Hi Faye,

Advanced Happy Birthday! Many happy returns. May the Lord bless you and grant your prayer by giving you the one thing that you and Irvin have been wanting for so long.
Ingat kayo palagi.

Happy 4th of July na rin sa inyong dalawa. Enjoy the rest of the day.

Best Regards,
Samuelito Castillo

*****
Hey Girl!

Sorry wasn't able to greet you on your birthday. Had so much to do at home and at work. I hope you enjoyed your day with family and friends.

Wishing you good health, love and happiness. Cheers!

Regie, Song & LJ

*****
Faye--

Belated Happy Birthday, Sis! Blessings come your way.

Rene

*****
happy happy bday Faye! more blessing for a kind hearted person like you.

Regards,

Chen

*****
HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY FAYE!

Here are my wishes for you ...... each rose
symbolizes a special wish from me to you.

One Rose for Long Friendship
One Rose for Unconditional Love
One Rose For Financial Wealth
One for Everlasting Happiness
One for Success
One for Knowledge
One for Beauty, inner and outer
One for Family
One for Honesty
And the last one for a long and healthy life

HAPPY, HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY FAYE!!!!!

MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS!

Maridel

*****
Maligayang kaarawan Faye...nanaginip ako kanina nag ce-celebrate tayo ng birthday mo sa office..... sarap ng mga handa at marami..enjoy your birthday..

Regards.

Ernie Gutierrez

*****
Faye,

Happy Birthday po !

Wishing you all the best for this day !

Keep safe !

Joey

*****
happy and blessed birthday faye! ;-)

Rachel

*****
Happy Birthday Pipay!!! Wish you good health and beauty...

See yah!

Marie

*****
Advance Happy Birthday, Pepay!

Ruby

*****
happy bday faye!

Rona

*****
happy birthday!More blessings to come and wish you good health

tita baby and raphi

*****
Dear Faye,

wishing u the best on ur birthday.. may ur life be filled with happiness, people who love u and good health.

regards,

indira

*****
Happy Birthday Faye!!!

Miss you na! I hope we really do meet up next time you visit!

Take care!

Ricci

*****
Wishing you true happiness, peace of mind and more blessings to come... Happy, happy birthday Faye!!! =)

Erikitch

*****
Belated happy birthday Faye..sorry late na.

Vel

*****
sup2x? ei! happy happy birthday h!

Mickey

*****
Hey Girl! Long time no hear. Happy 34th Birthday! I pray for many birthdays to come.
Also for a baby soon... para me pinsan na ang mga babies ko...

I'm doing fine khit mag-isa lang, I'm still hopeful that we will be able to follow Lito very soon.

Hope to chat with you sometime...regards to Irvin.

Wishing you all the best today and always.

Love,

Irmee Cansino - Castillo

*****
Noel Jo Ann and Kids has sent you an ecard from 123Greetings.com.

*****
hi ate faye!!! ... howdy?...

from all of us, HAPPY, HAPPY, HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

wishing u all the best...take care always...c u na lng sa chat..

muah!!!...

GOD Bless...we love you

ShAsHa

*****
Hello Ninang FAye!!!

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY !!!!

wish you continuous blessings and happiness.
And most of all: a healthy baby soon.... :D

more birthdays to come...

love yah!

Regards,

Caryl/Roland/Migs

*****
Hi Faye,

Happy happy birthday sister!

Fatima

*****
Hi Faye!

As usual, I just opened my email today after so many weeks. Belated Happy Birthday and God Bless!

Hope to see you when you come back again to Manila.

Espie

*****
Hello faye,

belated happy birthday. Hope you had a fun birthday! God bless you. All the best to you and irvin.

cat

*****
Hi Faye,

It's your birthday today, isn't it? I wish you all the best my dear! Take care & God Bless!

ellen

*****
Hi faye, happy birthday! Mwaah… Ano nilu2 mo? o llbas nlng kyo ni Irvin? Wish ko 4 u, sana maging successful operation mo kung ma22loy man. Ok, mag enjoy kyo ni Irvin ngaun, bday mo e. Mwaah… Ingat kyo lagi! 

Tita Aba

*****
Faye hapi bday! May u hv mre blessed n peaceful life. Luv u. T.Baby

*****
Happy birthday to you! :)

Tita Baby

*****
Happy birthday! With d grace of God, may u hav an abundance of all d good things specially good health nd happiness, I love u anak

Mama

*****
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Adoy

*****
HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY! REGARDS TO ERVIN AND GOD BLESS

Papa

*****

Edmour O. Vachon 87, of Leominster

LEOMINSTER: Edmour O. Vachon, 87, of Leominster, died Sunday, July 6, 2008 at the Keystone Center, Leominster.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Kathleen P. (Kennedy) Vachon, three sons; Kenneth F. Vachon, Dennis L. Vachon both of Leominster, Ronald E. Vachon of Gardner , three sisters; Teo McDonald of Fitchburg, Cecile Waskowicz of Florida and Lorraine Holland of Fitchburg. He also leaves 4 grandchildren.

Mr. Vachon was born in Fitchburg, November 27, 1920, a son of Joseph and Regina (Forest) Vachon and was a longtime Leominster resident. During WW II he served his country in the United States Navy.

For over 40 years Mr. Vachon and his family owned and operated the Grand View Golf Course in Leominster, which has recently been transformed to the Vachon Wildlife Sanctuary.

He attended the Holy Family of Nazareth Church in Leominster.

Funeral services and burial will be private. There are no calling hours.

The Louis M. Isabelle Funeral Home, 316 Clarendon Street, Fitchburg is assisting the family with arrangements.

credits:

The Louis M. Isabelle Funeral Home and

Sentinel and Enterprise (local newspaper).

What your workspace says about you?

I got this from Caryl...

What Your Workspace Says About You

You are an organized and detail oriented person. You have your life in order. You are hardworking and driven. You have an excellent work ethic. You feel like you neglect your family and friends when you're working. You may work a bit too much. You don't switch careers often, and you intend to stay at your current job for a long time. At work, you tend to be an extrovert. You enjoy working with other people and drawing people into your work space.

What Does Your Work Space Say About You?