My Inner Piece

Why I got an iPod Touch 2G?

2009-01-01T12:57:00.011+08:00

My first and only iPod was when I got one in 2005. Its the 3rd generation iPod. The reason behind my purchase before was due to the fact I wanted to own one and have all my music in one digital device. After 3 years, my unit is still in good working order and I do hope it stays that way. I only had the battery changed in order to renew its playing time.

I held off buying the other generation iPods like the iPod photo, iPod video or even the nanos since in my personal opinion the upgrades are noteworthy but not enough to convince me to have it. I primarily use my iPod for music and podcasts which is why it is mostly used in my car.

Now the iPod Touch came in and it made me think already of an upgrade but since I usually hold off on 1st generations that made me wait. Now the 2nd generation was introduced last September 2008 together with more programs in the iTunes app store that are both useful and trivial.

I previously own a PALM Tungsten TX and was a very good PDA. I especially value it for its ability to have Epocrates Rx and for handling document files. Now my Nokia unit is handling the documents but unfortunately does not have the Epocrates Rx program built for the Symbian OS. This made me miss my Tungsten Tx.

Last December 2008, I was surprised to see in the iTunes app store and Epocrates website the availability of the program for the iPod Touch. This then made me seriously consider in getting the 2nd gen iPod Touch. So after researching and doing some window shopping for the best price I got one before the year ended.

Now, I am enjoying the 2nd generation iPod Touch because of the following reasons:

1. Still handling my music needs
2. Able to handle podcasts, not only audio but video content as well
3. Have useful and trivial apps to be more productive and counterproductive :)
4. Have Epocrates Rx for my professional needs
5. Include medical pictures that will help me in explaining to patients their condition.

The ability to handle documents such as editing and making it is still lacking for now. The only thing that I am now waiting is when Dataviz will be releasing the Documents to Go program for the iPod Touch and iPhone. If you want to be notified once it is released visit this link. I do hope it will be soon. Happy New Year to all!!!

Track Santa in Delivering Presents

2008-12-25T00:08:00.006+08:00

It is the time of the year when children and even adults want to know what Santa will be giving them. Preparing cookies and milk beside the Christmas tree for Santa to eat while delivering the presents. Now with the modern age of GPS, computers and the internet you can now know where Santa is during the Christmas season.

NORAD or North American Aerospace Defense Command together with Google using Google Maps and Google Earth found a way to know the specific location of Santa Claus and his gift giving schedule.

NORAD Santa website is the place to look at as the site gives the blow by blow gift giving route of St. Nick. You can also track Santa via 3D.

Enjoy the fun with your kids or even for the adults.

Wired news website has an article on how all of these started.

Merry Christmas to all!

Ecofont: A way to help save in printing and the environment

2008-12-22T16:37:00.004+08:00

Ecofont developed by SPRANQ is a great idea on how to save ink for your daily use at home or in the office. Thus saving you ink and in the end not only save money but the environment too.

Taken from the website of ecofont,
("After Dutch holey cheese, there now is a Dutch font with holes as well."

Appealing ideas are often simple: how much of a letter can be removed while maintaining readability? After extensive testing with all kinds of shapes, the best results were achieved using small circles. After lots of late hours (and coffee) this resulted in a font that uses up to 20% less ink.)

And it is free to use.
So you can try it out just go to their website.
It can be used for Windows Vista, XP, Mac OS X and Linux. Just select the appropriate download.

COD Christmas Show: Manila to Cubao and now in Greenhills.

2008-12-14T11:46:00.004+08:00

I remember when I was a kid, my parents will bring us to Cubao to see a show. It is every Christmas time, crowds will flock in front of the building and look up. A fantastic stage with moving "puppets" or now what they call "animatronics". During that time, that is already hi-tech and I always ask my dad on "How they do that?"

Now, the show has found a new home in Greenhills shopping mall. Being on its 6th year in Greenhills, it is just yesterday that I had the chance to visit it again. My daughter and wife is with me and now I find myself in my parents shoes.

The theme this year is regarding environmental preservation. Watching the show with my daughter gave joy and fascination in her eyes, just like the other kids. Actually, it is not only her but including me, who again gave me flashbacks when I was the one who was brought to see it.

With changing backdrops from wasteland to a green and clean environment, moving animals such as reindeers, a horse with Karitela, a carabao pulling a cart and moving human puppets including a Band gave the audience a good show.

The new generation now immersed on TV, gadgets and other forms of entertainment may have lost the old "classical" and worthwhile to preserve Christmas traditions. Some may argue that it is old technology, but for me it is not the technology that matters. It is the people behind it who believes that Christmas is for kids and for the family. Letting them watch a once a year show all together for at least a day and spending quality time. Making the kids grow up in knowing what once was and is still now a Christmas show worth seeing and remembering with happy faces and a good heart.

It is not only nice but wonderful that the Ortigas family invited the Rosario family to continue the Christmas show tradition since 1957. Kudos to the Ortigas family who saw that this tradition should live on and to the Rosario family together with the personnel who still carry on this show. I do hope they know that the kids during the early years of COD are now the parents who bring their kids to see it again.

The full story behind COD and the Christmas show can be found at inquirer website.

May you have the opportunity to see the show. Merry Christmas to all!!!

Video call (3G), the advantage!

2008-12-07T19:13:00.004+08:00

Filipinos love to text. That is a given. The ratio of text to call most likely will be 10 is to 1 (I am just guessing here) This might be due to the fact that texting cost less, is easier in terms of texting and press to send rather than press to call and wait for the receiver to answer.

However, calling has its advantages, 1) you hear the person you want to talk to 2) you are able to express your feelings and let the person know it 3) You are able to explain in detail somethings that is hard to express via text.

For quite a long time, Globe and SMART had been pushing video calls as a way to communicate but lately I have not seen any marketing campaign from them regarding this value added feature. This might not have taken off as planned by the telcos since initially it was charged higher than the standard voice call.

Now the price of the video call is the same as voice call, so I have taken advantage of it this year with my nokia 3G phone. Me, my sister and very recently my wife got hold of a 3G phone. We use SMART as our primary line. (Picture from www.guardian.co.uk)

So what certain situations we like to use the video features or how it is a GOD sent.

1. Buying stuff wherein the primary buyer is not with the errand person to buy it. Just like when my wife needed a phone pouch and wanted to see the different colors. Instead of guessing and going back if she did not like it, I video called her, showed the colors and VOILA!, she picked the one she liked.

2. Doing a procedure step by step via video call.
My sister had car trouble just the other day with her vehicle. She was stopped by the NLEX enforcers due to a non functioning tail light on the right side. She is not adept in trouble shooting so she called me up. This is were video call became handy. She showed me the tail light area and instructed her on how to dismantle the panel at the inside of the rear end of her vehicle.

3. Making someone happy especially the "Lola"
My mom is very fond of my little angel daughter. So when my sister is with my mom, I call her up and they are able to "talk" to her. Sometimes, when I am out, I call my wife and chat with my little girl. I can always see her delight and fascination that I can see her and she can see me.

Now if I could only get a hold of the previous unit, Mobile eye by SMART. This definitely I plan to use for security cam purposes.

How about you, any special use for your video call 3G? How I also wish that inter-Telco video calls would be possible for better use of this feature.
The only thing that I believe you don't want to be seen is when you are not dressed up properly or have a bad hair day. :)

Malayan Bank Power Saver Account: Investment Alternative

2008-12-02T02:09:00.004+08:00

I came across Malayan Bank's Power saver account. It doubles your money every 5 years.

The first 5 years is the monthly savings stage. Once you open the power saver account, you deposit every month 1000 pesos for 5 years. This will then accumulate to 60,000 pesos. At that time, you can get the money with an total interest rate of P12,963 or you have the option not to take the amount and interest and leave it for another 5 years. On the 10th year, the 60,000 pesos will become 120T. Leave it for another 5 years and it will become 240T. Another extra 5 years it will be 480T. A total of 20 years.

What is good about this account is that you only save 1000 pesos every month for the first 5 years and still get P12,963 if you opted not to continue it. But if you do, then double your money in 5 years time is something that no other bank has given for quite a long time.
Again you have the option to continue adding 1000 pesos every month for another 5 years which of course will give you another set of double your money.

Now as for the risk, PDIC will cover you for 250,000 so that means you can keep your investment with them for 15 years and you are safely covered. The last 5 years then will be the risk you have to take since the amount is beyond the coverage. However that will be 15 years from now and with the recent push of changing the coverage amount to 500,000 pesos by the BSP and PDIC through the help of congress, then that may be covered too by that time.

Another Power Saver scheme is the 500 pesos per monthly plan. It is the same mechanics except that P500 instead of P1,000 will be deposited.
The picture below shows the options you can take.

What will happen if I was not able to deposit monthly?

If you are not able to deposit monthly for 3 months, the account will be converted to a regular savings account. If you were late in your monthly deposit, a penalty of 1% is given. If due to unavoidable circumstance, you wanted to withdraw from it, then it will again be converted to a regular savings account.

This can then be an investment alternative for those who want to retire or even as a legacy they can give to their love ones once the time comes for the investment to be taken out once it becomes due.

"Malayan bank was founded in 1996 and is a joint undertaking of outstanding business leaders coming from GMA Network, LINQ Corporation, Liberty Flour Mills, and the Majaco Group" taken verbatim in their website.

Their branches are found in Makati, Kalentong, Pasig, Marikina, Las Piñas, GMA Quezon City, Sta. Rosa Laguna and Imus Cavite. How to contact them and map can be found here.

Sony Ericsson service center vs 3rd party cellphone repair shops

2008-12-01T14:55:00.003+08:00

My wife's SE K550i recently had some problems. Why does it happen that issues appear after just a few months the warranty has expired ? Her SUN SIM card suddenly was not able to be seen by the phone and her battery suddenly ballooned. So I got a new battery which was the easy part. But then as I inspected the phone on why the SIM was not read, the SIM PINS was damaged. 1 pin was pushed up and 1 SIM was broken off. I wanted Sony Ericsson service center to see the unit since I bought it from them more than a year ago.

After just a minute of inspecting by the attendant and forwarding it to the technician inside their shop, I was given a "You need to BUY a NEW PHONE" impression by the attendant. She told me the phone was exposed to liquid based on the indicator in the phone. That was unfortunate for me since my wife places the phone together with the baby stuff for my daughter. Most likely with the baby bottles, milk, and diapers that is a expected. However since this is out of warranty, that won't matter since I have to pay already.
But then the thing that I was disappointed was the next one she told me. The SIM PINS are damaged and that is connected to the main board plus the battery connectors have electrically shorted out. For short, a new board for the unit is needed and the cost is as if I bought a new phone. I asked if they can still repair it just to make it work. Their answer is "NO".

Greatly disappointed, I had no choice but to look for a 3rd party cellphone repair service in SM NORTH cyberzone. What I don't like with such 3rd party providers is that if this is your first time to have a phone repaired with them, you are not sure regarding the skill of the technician. Good thing the one that I had this phone brought to was a good one. TOPWIN Telecom Trading corporation is the name of the shop. (need to advertise it since I am happy with their technician) It is near Sun cell shop in cyberzone. I told the technician the problem with the battery and the SIM pins. After inspecting the unit, he told me that he will be able to repair it without replacing the board. After an hour, the SIM Pins was repaired, the battery contact points was cleaned and the phone was working again!!!!!

The limitation/reminders he told me are the following:

1. The SIM pin that is broken was a patchup. He had to do a makeshift pin that is welded to replace the broken one. That is understandable since you can't remove the SIM holder which is attached directly to the mother board.

2. Never overcharge the battery since it may again bloat the new one and damage the contact points.

3. Avoid exposure to water or liquids again, it may not survive the next round. Which I concur, that made me buy a semi-water resistant pouch and placed it inside a zip lock for double protection. That added a 100 pesos cost but in comparison to a new phone, that is acceptable.

Total cost of the repair? 500 pesos compared to the 560 pesos labor for SE plus the main board. What I can say is that is a good price difference.

Final analysis:
If your phone is within warranty coverage and not damaged by any liquid exposure, then SE service center is a good place to bring your unit, since it will be free of charge.
BUT....
If your phone is damaged not covered by warranty such as liquid exposure or even if out of warranty already, looking for a good 3rd party repair service is a better option. Since the technician can try to find ways to repair your unit to be usable till your next scheduled purchase unlike in Sony Ericsson wherein damaged part equals replace the whole module or part.

Now if only Sony Ericsson has a bright idea of making a 3rd party repair service to do such odd or "non-serviceable" units for them that would be added business income. But I guess that is not within their line of thinking, what they want is for you to purchase a new one. Which I am happy that I won't do until my next scheduled purchase or when my retention plan comes in.

Review: Barney Dino-mite Birthday Live on Stage: My Experience with my daughter

2008-12-01T13:45:00.008+08:00

I always wonder how this purple dinosaur is able to fascinate kids. Since my 2 year old daughter with the prodding of my wife, wants to see the show, I got tickets to their multi-date, multi-time shows in Manila. The first sets was in SM North and the show we got is for SM Mall of Asia.

Definitely if you ask any child regarding the show, they will enjoy it. My little daughter and the rest of the children watching it showed their delight on seeing Barney and his friends.
I was telling my wife that kids shows like this is a good business, since the tickets are not just for the child, which you pay full price but also the ones accompanying her/him.

So how did the show fair up to the other shows that I watched with my daughter. Previously, we watched Dora the Pirate show last April 2008 in Aliw theater and also the DVD live show of Barney in the US. My comparison will then be based on this 2 shows we watched.

Generally, as a parent, I was disappointed with the 40+ minutes production number for this kids show. Why? Well, my daughter usually is very interactive when it comes to watching and I always accompany her in dancing/singing or even asking questions. In this case, she was initially dancing and singing but after just 5 minutes of watching, she just sat with us. (That is even after she slept more than an hour before the show)

So my breakdown of the show:
1. Theme: Barney's birthday
The theme was okay, it was focused on Barney's preparation for his birthday together with his friends who came in one by one as the show progressed. The only audience interaction was mostly just asking whose voice is the one heard before that friend comes on the stage.

2. Stage setup/props:
It was very static, the main backdrop was just a FUN MACHINE with an interactive screen that shows what Barney and his friends imagine what is needed during the preparation of his Birthday. Even the balloons/ buttons for the FUN MACHINE are just drawings. There was no moving setups, no change in backdrops. The real balloons are a pathetic 4 to 5 pieces on each side of the stage brought in by the people friends. The instruments held by Barney, Baby Bop, BJ, etc are too small to be seen by those at the far end of the theater. Lighting is very basic, not even changes in color during the sunny and cloudy day. All the visuals are found in the FUN MACHINE that lack interaction with the audience. The picture of friends shown in the FUN MACHINE was very generic which personally I felt could be done with pictures of Barney and his friends instead. There was not even any popping/falling confetti for this Birthday party show.

You may be wondering why I am so critical about this, well in comparison with the stage props and backdrops of Dora the pirate, this showed failed in comparison to how that was done last April. Even the show of Go Diego Go and Igi the Iguana done in Trinoma the past 2 weeks had also a simple backdrop but still was able to give a more interactive changing of stage props.

3. Stage performance/Blocking
The audience definitely cheered when Barney and his friends enter the stage. But somehow the stage blocking of the characters are very simple and boring for me. Yes they were all there but it lacked a punch. In Dora the Pirate show your eyes move from left to right, right to left or even going up or down (since there was a portion were there was a pirate ship). The lack of props or moving stage background may have contributed to the boring presentation. In comparison with the DVD Barney live show done in the US, in a scale of 1 to 10 and the DVD show is rated 10, this one is way below 5.

Again why am I so critical about the Barney show? Since this is for kids why do I even bother analyzing the show, they are the ones who should enjoy it right? Well personally, as a parent, I always want to interact with my daughter while watching. We sing, dance and even imitate the movements such as the ending of Barney shows wherein they sing and hug. Unfortunately the ending of this show did not even make my daughter stand up and let me do what Barney do. And after watching better shows, I dozed off at the middle of the show.

Final analysis: If you want your kids to be happy to see Barney and his friends live, then by all means, see the show. But as a companion to your kid who should also enjoy the show and even be happy that their kids will interact with you while watching it, you will be disappointed. The production team could have done more to make this truly a show to watch for.

Schedule of shows taken from Ticknet website:
"Barney Dino-mite Birthday! is set to stage on November 22 & 23 in SM North Edsa Cinema 8, November 29 & 30 in SM Mall of Asia Centerstage Cinema, December 6 in SM Sta. Rosa Cinema 3, December 13 in SM Dasmarinas Cinema 2 and on December 14 in SM Megamall Cinema 4. Show times are at 12nn, 3pm and 6pm." (Taken verbatim)

Palm TX, T5, Lifedrive SDHC support? It may come true

2008-03-22T21:48:00.003+08:00

Brighthand website had news that support for the SDHC (high capacity memory >2 gig) is possible through a palm developer. However, the developer will need at least 100 people to support it by buying it for $20. The poll is found at this 1srcforum .

Personally, I own a Palm TX and having 2 gig for external memory before was great. In this age of multimedia such as video is even placed on such flash memories, support for > 2 gig is definitely a must. Since, I view both movies, tv shoes and medical lectures, 2 gig now seems too little.

So if you are a Palm TX, T5 or Lifedrive user and want this software update. Go click those links and show your intention.
Blog out...

Goodbye Beloved eMac!

2008-03-16T16:48:00.005+08:00

Yesterday, I sold my eMac to a new owner who I believe will take care of it very well. After I got "eMacwell" 1 and 1/2 years back, I upgraded it and made sure it is always in tip top shape. It store very important data of my baby Emmanuelle during her first year together with memories of me and my wife's wedding. I even made some video's for my work and for personal needs care off this handy computer.
Now my baby girl is very curious with "eMacwell" and even sits with me during my last few days with it. As you can see, here is my baby Emmanuelle sitting on the desk of "eMacwell". :)

But just like any worthy equipment, there is a time to let go of it. I was trying to sell it for about a month, unfortunately most of the inquiries I felt was giving it too low a value.
Then at last, someone inquired without question on her value but more of her performance and features. Even from the new owner's tone, it was excitement. Now I know, "eMacwell" will have a new home and again show her stuff.

Goodbye dear "eMacwell". I know you are in safe hands. Blog out....

Why is our world turning upside down?

2008-03-13T23:46:00.005+08:00

I saw a group of teenagers today who were picking mangoes from our neighbor this afternoon. Without permission, they just got a long bamboo with a bag in order to get it for their own. So I gave them a scare by taking their pictures and they went away.
However, after 30 minutes they came back but now with an adult who was picking the mangoes with them. I felt frustrated and sad that this kind of role model is shown to the new generation.

So I just informed the security guard of the house so that she will deal with the group. I actually wanted to talk to the adult but since I thought it would be futile since he will definitely have a distorted way of thinking. This I presumed since he is the one even helping those teenagers.

Where is the sense of decency and respect by just asking permission to get some mangoes? It is so simple and proper but unfortunately now lost to the new generation. And making it worse, the adults give a bad example or even the promoter of wrong doings.

When can we see again people having good manners and proper conduct?

Blog out

My New Blog: Rehabilitation Medicine

2008-03-10T00:44:00.005+08:00

Since I became busy with my profession, my personal blogs got a little rusty on updates. Now with the added responsibility of being a dad to my 1.5 year old daughter, then things became more hectic.
However, since I love using technology in my medical profession and with the advent of almost anywhere access to the internet, I then decided to use this as an opportunity to share what I can to the Filipino online community. Hopefully this will also reach those who are from other countries.
So, I decided to make another blog on medical conditions, managements or treatments that is within the scope of my medical specialty. This is Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. You can view my new blog titled Your Rehabilitation Medicine

Hope you can visit it and read, participate or ask questions on medical concerns that affect your physical function. Dysfunctions that come from the brain, nerve, muscle, bone or joint are what it is all about.

Blog out....

Holy Week

2007-04-04T21:35:00.000+08:00

It is once again Holy Week. Most are going home to spend the long weekend with their love ones in the province. Others are going to a vacation spot to enjoy the yearly event. Others on the other hand try to live out the experience of Christ.

For those who like to reflect for the week but do not have the chance to do so, this website that was shared to me might be of help. At least there is something that you can use in the internet for the Lent.

For those who like to see how a Holy week procession looks like especially in Bulacan then visit the pics I took the past year or two. Hope it helps you feel the true meaning of Lent.

Blog out...

Blessings: A Reality check to reflect on.

2007-03-28T14:00:00.000+08:00

Most of the time, we often complain a lot of things. Too many things to do and not enough time, budget is short and how to make ends meet, how to have a convenient and comfortable way to go to a destination, and so on and so forth. To be candid, I for one usually complain a lot, too.

Yesterday, I was humbled by the Almighty regarding my complaining. He up above has a mysterious and if I may say "weird" way of knocking on you. If HE can say it loud He would have told me, "Enough of your petty complaints and see what other people complain about." He just did that to me not only once, not only twice but FOUR times. WOW!!!

The first one was when I was checking up my old patient who had back pains, during our off-topic conversation her daughter mentioned that one of her choirs at home was picking up a sack of coals to use for cooking rice, since it is much cheaper. Her complaint "Mahal po ang kuryente, kaya hindi ko maiwasan na magbuhat." (Electricity is too expensive and I am forced to bend and lift.)
Now, here I am complaining of the home electric bill is too expensive especially using an air-con. But for this individual, using a rice cooker becomes a burden for them already. Reality check #1.

The second one was when I went to the school office. Our college secretary was suppose to be going home to Isabela to have a gown fitting for her sister's wedding. Unfortunately, she just got 45 pesos from her last salary. This is due to the salary deductions from her previous loan. Now my college faculty decided to use the pooled money they have and give 1000 pesos for her to use. However, her co-secretary in the personnel office also needs money since the younger brother needs it to pay for the tuition fee balance for him to take the final exam. In an unwavering sacrifice, our secretary asked permission to give the money to her co-secretary since she deemed it more important than her personal need. Now that is what I call a true selfless act in everyday life.

Again I am humbled by her and as I talked with my faculty, I shared 1000 pesos for our secretary to still go home to see her parents and have her gown fitting. Reality check #2, I often complain about the salary being not enough, but how about having just 45 pesos for 15 days?
Just to add, my faculty gave our secretary 700 pesos (pooled again and to be paid if able) during her last payday so she can get by for the next 15 days.

And so I thought, I get it Lord. But then Reality check #3 came in front of me. As I walked out the gate of the school, I happen to see one of our registrar employee who had a stroke. Her husband was waiting for her outside the school to fetch her. She then hopped on the bicycle back seat as her husband pedaled away in the hot afternoon weather towards the smog filled EDSA.
As for me, I complain that my transportation gets to overheat during the hot weather that I turn off the air-con. How about them who don't even have a car?

And as I was winding up my day with a medical research orientation during dinner, I got to chat with the medical representative (med rep) who assisted me. Talking about family and kids, I was again humbled when the med rep told me that they were trying to have a baby for 5 years now. As for me, I am blessed with a beautiful happy angel already during our first year of marriage. Reality check #4

As I was heading back home during a long day, I reflected upon the 4 Reality checks that the Lord showed me. EDSA even at night was still in a jam. I just prayed and said "Thank you for all the Blessings you shower me and my family." Lesson learned from today, "I should not complain so much, since so much is already given to me."

I hope for those reading this, may you have your own reflection on what is that you complain about and be humbled on how much is given to you.
Blog out.....

Comment: from Discovery weekend blog

2007-01-20T23:48:00.000+08:00

Since I reposted the Discovery weekend personal review, I thought that it should also be fitting to place the comment given in spymac website by one of my visitors. Read below and see how it helped him.
-------

The Discovery Weekend is a fantastic way to discover whether or not you are both ready for marriage and understand the commitments that must be made, as well as the adjustments that each must make to accommodate the other.

I undertook the Weekend with my fiancee (at the time) around 6 years ago, and I must say it was an eye-opener, with all of the hard questions that you must discuss (i.e., dealing with finances, in-laws, conflict resolution).

I eventually married her, and I do think that the weekend did help us resolve some of our issues.

I had a friend who attended the weekend at the same time we did; he ended up splitting up with his girlfriend as a result. I thought at the time that it was for the best; better for the conflicts to arise now than after you are married. Eventually though, I found out that they married a few years later.

However, my wife and I still can't bring ourselves to "hold hands while fighting". While a good idea in theory, it's very difficult to do in the heat of the moment.

-Bon

Discovery Weekend: My personal experience in 2005

2007-01-20T23:29:00.000+08:00

This is the first export of one of my blogs in spymac website. Since this is about discovering your partner before marriage. I want to start with this blog to be reposted here in blogger. So just to note those reading this that my review was in year 2005. I hope it will be helpful to those who are contemplating to be married. I highly recommend you undergo this seminar.

It has been a week after my girlfriend and I underwent a reflection for couples under this program. Discovery weekend is a program for individuals who have plans of settling down and want to know more about their future or would be better half. Their website at discovery weekend explains fully the goals of the program.

They are located in Quezon City (within the area of Gotesco Mall while going to Fairview). Couples come in on Friday night and finish the seminar on a Sunday afternoon.

It is quite extensive since the seminar starts right after the Friday dinner. This of course includes the whole of Saturday up to the evening. This is culminated with a Sunday mass in the afternoon.

What is interesting about the program is that topics are given which initially deals with oneself, then between you and your partner and followed by topics that concern about the couple and God. This is for me important in order for each couple to fully understand each other.

The format of each topic initially presents the basics of developing a better relationship depending on the topic discussed followed by couples who share their experience with the participants. This is definitely very unselfish and brave on my point of view because this definitely exposes the couple of their personal issues. Wow! I definitely admire them.

After the couples share, the participants are given time to reflect on the topic through questions given to them, after which they then discuss their reflections to their partner.

Personally, the whole weekend for me is very helpful and fulfilling. Of course it takes two to make it a successful one.

Most of the participants are engaged couples that already have a schedule for their wedding. But this is actually designed also for individuals who need a better way of knowing their future partner i.e. if they are really compatible with each other. This of course helps such couples know how to deal better their issues even before they get married.

The males and females have separate quarters and each share the room with another participant. Those who join are usually 24 to 30 couples. The accommodations are very basic with bathrooms for each room. Do not expect a 5 star type accommodation so if you need extra pillows, you should bring your own.

How I just wished that they had some hot water during the morning bath. It is quite cold and how I can imagine it during the colder months.
I also hope in future sessions that they be able to ask the participants for food preferences or allergies. My girlfriend unfortunately was unable to eat one of the main foods during dinner due to an allergy on shrimps.

Overall, the seminar experience is quite exceptional, thanks to the main facilitators under Dr. Allan and Maribel Dionisio. As for the accommodations and food it is okay but again that is not why we went there in the first place.

So if you are seriously planning to settle down it is highly recommended you undergo this weekend seminar. Just make sure you register way ahead of time since they get fully booked quite fast. At 4,800 pesos (during the time of this writing) for two, this is definitely a must do pre-nuptial relationship enhancement.

To contact them see the info below:
Email: info@discoveryweekend.org
Phone number: 426-1271
Contact person: Lala Denilla

Found my old blog

2007-01-20T09:08:00.000+08:00

Before I used blogspot or blogger website. I had made a blog at spymac. It is my very first attempt in the blogworld. However, since of the very erratic posting that I do, somehow, I got caught in the transition of the website (major revamp) and I was locked out (not able to get through my blog).Which led me to blogger.

Since I placed there some reviews of items that I use and placed some links there, I kind of feel it is a waste not to track down my account and get those reviews.

So just today, I was able to get in (at last) to my spymac account and will begin the transition this coming week or two. I hope I finish the transfer since some pics are missing already.

So for those who are watching my blog. Hope you find some useful things on my old blog.

signing out....

Jan 5, 2007: My papa's Birthday

2007-01-04T20:23:00.000+08:00

January 5, 2007 is suppose to be my papa's 74th birthday. Unfortunately, he did not reach this day. As I mentioned in the previous blog post, he died last September 29, 2006 due to an accident in our garage in Bulacan.

Many people know, admire and love my papa. He is an Occupational physician who is also a general practitioner in our hometown, Meycauayan. Many go to him to have a checkup and are amazed on how he can diagnose with minimal laboratories and give the necessary meds for their ailment.

Initially, I was not attuned with his style, but through the years that I had my clinic with him, I realized that his style has value.

Patients of my father told me that he is one of the last remaining "old" doctors who has a healing touch.

Personally, I am happy to know, that he still was able to witness me getting married and graduating in my masters class. He was always there for me especially when I needed support and assistance in my undertakings.

One of the things, I love, that he did for me was in High School, wherein he gave me the freedom to decide what to do and go provided that I don't abuse it.

A few minutes ago, my nephew asked helped for his Christian Living homework. The story we talked about is the Presentation of the Child Jesus in the Temple in Luke chapter 2. He asked me about the moral of the story and this is my personal reflection. The love of a parent to their child is unending. They will do all they can to make sure that their child is safe and sound.

That is what my papa gave me since the day I was conceived, the unending love in order to make me reach what I have today.
Happy Birthday Papa. I miss you so much. I Love you!

Blog out....

The year that was 2006

2007-01-03T22:40:00.000+08:00

Hi everyone.
I guess it was quite a long period since I last posted on my Inner piece.
2006 was quite a year for me.
My last blog was about me getting married.

Well definitely, it did not end there in terms of significant events.
What do I mean?

1) Well, last September 29, 2006, a day after the "Milenyo" typhoon here in the Philippines, my father, Dr. Ildefonso L. Martinez died in Bulacan. It was a freak accident. Since he removed the tire wedge and the handbrake was not in place, his van rolled backwards in our garage. He was then pushed backed and went under the van.
Unfortunately, I was informed late because of bad cellphone network (due to the typhoon). When I arrived in Bulacan, I was not able to see my dad alive.\

The last time I talked with him was 2 days before when both of us were handling a patient in Bulacan.

I miss him so dearly and still wonder why he was taken suddenly. All of us were shocked most especially my mom.

I also wished that he was able to see his new granddaughter.
Which now leads me to another event this year.

2) My wife, just gave birth to our first born Baby Girl Marie Emmanuelle B. Martinez last October 23, 2006. Weighing 3.3 kgs. She is definitely an angel given to us. She is currently 2 months plus as of this writing and had her baptism last December 30, 2006.
I now made a blog for her.

So how was this year?
It was a year of happiness due to my wedding, fulfillment due to my graduation in Masters in Business Administration in Health, sadness and grief due to the death of my dad, joy and celebration due to the birth of my first born.

It was quite a year. A year with mixed events. And as the 2007 year begins, I hope and pray that it will be a good year. The only thing that I like to impart at this point, is hope, faith and entrusting the Lord, that whatever happens, He has His reasons.

Did I marry the right person? Article emailed in Discovery Weekend groups

2006-05-20T10:33:00.000+08:00

Last May 14, 2006 I got married to a beautiful person who I love and cherish. After getting a few days rest I am back to work.
As I was checking my email, a member of the Discovery Weekend yahoo groups sent an article on "Did I marry the right person?"

Kind of weird if your thinking that I just got married and this is the next blog I have posted.

Actually if you will be reading the article which I posted below show the true nature of a relatioship. Read on and you might get what you are looking for... regarding the meaning of loving a person... loving your wife or loving your husband.

God Bless...

Blog out...

----
DID I MARRY THE RIGHT PERSON?

During one of our seminars, a woman asked a common question. She said,
"How do I know if I married the right person?" I noticed that there was a
large man sitting next to her so I said, "It depends. Is that your
husband?"
In all seriousness, she answered "How do you know?"
Let me answer this question because the chances are good that it's
weighing on your mind.

Here's the answer.

EVERY relationship has a cycle. In the beginning, you fell in love with
your spouse. You anticipated their call, wanted their touch, and liked
their idiosyncrasies.

Falling in love with your spouse wasn't hard. In fact, it was a completely
natural and spontaneous experience. You didn't have to DO anything. That's
why it's called "falling" in love... because it's happening TO YOU.

People in love sometimes say, "I was swept off my feet." Think about the
imagery of that expression. It implies that you were just standing there;
doing nothing, and then something came along and happened TO YOU.

Falling is love is easy. It's a passive and spontaneous experience. But
after a few years of marriage, the euphoria of love fades. It's the
natural cycle of EVERY relationship. Slowly but surely, phone calls become
a bother (if they come at all), touch is not always welcome (when
it happens), and your spouse's idiosyncrasies, instead of being cute,
drive you nuts.

The symptoms of this stage vary with every relationship, but if you think
about your marriage, you will notice a dramatic difference between the
initial stage when you were in love and a much duller or even angry
subsequent stage.

At this point, you and/or your spouse might start asking, "Did I marry the
right person?" And as you and your spouse reflect on the euphoria of the
love you once had, you may begin to desire that experience with someone
else. This is when marriages breakdown. People blame their spouse for
their unhappiness and look outside their marriage for fulfillment.

Extramarital fulfillment comes in all shapes and sizes. Infidelity is the
most obvious. But sometimes people turn to work, church, a hobby, a
friendship, excessive TV, or abusive substances.

But the answer to this dilemma does NOT lie outside your marriage. It lies
within it. I'm not saying that you couldn't fall in love with someone
else. You could. And TEMPORARILY you'd feel better. But you'd be in the
same
situation a few years later.
Because (listen carefully to this):

THE KEY TO SUCCEEDING IN MARRIAGE IS NOT FINDING THE RIGHT PERSON; IT'S
LEARNING TO LOVE THE PERSON YOU FOUND.

SUSTAINING love is not a passive or spontaneous experience. It'll NEVER
just happen to you. You can't "find" LASTING love. You have to "make" it
day in and day out. That's why we have the expression "the labor of love."
Because it takes time, effort, and energy. And most importantly, it takes
WISDOM. You have to know WHAT TO DO to make your marriage work.

Make no mistake about it. Love is NOT a mystery. There are specific things
you can do (with or without your spouse) to succeed with your marriage.

Just as there are physical laws of the universe (such as gravity), there
are also laws for relationships. Just as the right diet and exercise
program makes you physically stronger, certain habits in your relationship
WILL
make your marriage stronger. It's a direct cause and effect. If you know
and apply the laws, the results are predictable... you can "make" love.

Love in marriage is indeed a "decision"... not just a feeling.

I am getting Married!!!!

2006-04-30T02:06:00.000+08:00

I guess my title says it all.

I will be getting married already this coming May.

Since I am quite hectic in doing the arrangements, I definitely was not able to update this blog of mine.

So as a simple way of saying, I don't have the time yet to add more of my thoughts on my inner piece, this once in a lifetime event of mine explains it all.

Visit Ana and me in our website at the wedding library website.

Internet Connection speed Survey of Openpinoy.com

2006-03-18T08:30:00.000+08:00

As I was browsing through a local second hand computer shop, I noted their online poll regarding internet connection speed.
The screenshot above (March 18, 2006) with 408 who answered shows that the highest vote goes to the 256K dsl connection followed by the modem connection.

It seems local users are feeling a good bang for the buck in terms of speed and price for the offers given by DSL providers. I wonder if the limiting factor is the infrastructure in connecting all the possible customers who like to have a faster connection.

Lately most of the people I know and talked to complain that they can not get the regular DSL connection because of
1. The area is already "full" or "saturated"
2. The area is too far (eventhough it is in Q.C)

I wonder how this poll will turn out after a year.

Blog out...

Happy Valentine's Day

2006-02-14T23:17:00.000+08:00

Every year, a day in February, we celebrate (with all the marketing hype) and give acknowledgement to the person(s) who are dear to us.
Skyrocketing prices for flowers, all the different chocolates and/or cakes are part of the celebration.

But what is important is how you cherish and show how much you value and care for that special someone.

And before the day ends I would like to greet the women/ladies who made a difference in my life.

1. My girlfriend-Ana
2. My mom
3. My sister
4. My best friend Merci Guilas
5. My 2 special staff in school, Kathy and Gemma

Happy Valentine's Day everyone....

Blog out....

Jazz Speakers' J1321 USB model: Speakers beyond my expectations

2006-02-04T13:26:00.000+08:00

The usual complaint I say to myself when I use my ibook is the built in speakers. When I want to listen to music or watch movies in a not so quiet environment, I definitely cannot hear the sound. I have my old desktop PC speakers but that needs to be plugged in a power socket which limits its "portability".

As I went to Broadway Centrum to get some Mac stuff c/o another Mac enthusiast who has a Photo/Fuji film shop there, I passed by in Broadway's newly renovated computer shop area and saw a nice looking ball shape crystal speakers made by Jazz Speakers. Priced at 895 pesos in Gaisano PC shop, I was attracted to the shape as well as to the white covering which of course complements my iBook.

I asked the staff to try it out since I feel that the sound would be poor quality. However, when they played music, the PC shop staff and myself was pleasantly surprised that the sound was crisp and full. I am not an audiophile but I definitely see the more than expected sound quality that this unit produce.

As I tried it on my iBook, I simply plugged it in the USB port and voila!!!! I got a very nice sound system for my iTunes and movie playing. It is still bulky approximately the size of my closed fist with my other fist on top of the closed fist.

The good side is that it uses the USB port which gets its power there as well as the audio. It claims it has 200w PMPO. The crackling sound you hear when connecting speakers to the audio out port is not experienced which I often get irritated with my previous speakers. The usb and speaker to speaker cord is around 1.5 meters.

It works also on winXP (autodetect) and win98 (via drivers).
If you are looking for better sound at a good price and no power cords, this may be the unit you need.

The specifications: Jazz speakers Model J1321
Output: 0.5w x 2
Driver: 2.5" Full Range
Impedance: 4 ohms
Freq. Response: 100 Hz-20Khz
Magnetically shielded: Yes
Dimension (WxHxD): 103x103x80 mm
with Xear 3D technology

Pros:
No more power cord via USB
Digital sound via USB
More than expected sound quality for its price

Cons:
Size still a bit bulky
Use of USB port might be limiting for some

Support LUISA project Advocacy for patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

2006-02-03T08:26:00.000+08:00

The LUISA project or Lupus Inspired Advocacy is an organization dedicated to the support and information dissemination of patients who have the condition known as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).

SLE affects many organs of the body that lead to debilitating conditions that is carried through out their lifetime. It impairs the individual in their function.

During the PRA convention that I attended, I happen to visit their booth and have known the people behind the organization. It is then I realized that they have very minimal exposure to the general public. So through this present Blog I do hope that you try to see their organization at www.luisaproject.org

If you plan to support the organization in their research and patients afflicted with the condition, they sell greeting cards that is beautifully cross stitched by one of their members who has the condition. It is specially printed as shown

"Madonna and Child" - cross stitch creation by the deformed,
rheumatoid arthritic hands of Eloisa Aguinaldo

"Madame Butterfly " - oil in canvas by renowned artist Ben C. Francisco

Visit their website and share your blessings to the organization who supports the ones in need.

Another website to visit is www.lupus.ph that gives more information on the condition.

Blog out.

Philippine Rheumatological Associaton convention

2006-01-27T20:53:00.000+08:00

What a day!!!!! After my Ateneo MBAH class, this is the first time that I got to attend again a non Philippine Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine (PARM) convention. The Philippine Rheumatological Associaton (PRA) convention is an annual event that deals with updates on the present management, diagnostic procedures and trends with rheumatological conditions.

I was a bit surprised that as a specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, my other colleagues in the field are also in the convention. We were joking that it seems that it is a PARM convention. The first day was quite a medical information overload but definitely it was worth every moment.

Dr. Bee Giok Tan Sales my chairperson in the hospital I hold my clinic was one of the guest speaker. She discussed the functional impairements that come with rheumatological conditions.

What I like the most among the topics was the evidence based approach regarding the current studies that plague the new anti-inflammatory drugs, specifically the COX-2 type of Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS).

I do hope PARM invites the speaker for our own convention. Quite a lecture.

Tomorrow will be day 2. Hopefully it will be as medically rich in content as day 1.

Blog out.

Things that happened after my last post prior to this

2006-01-23T23:26:00.000+08:00

After again a long hiatus, I have finally posted again in my blog.
The things that have happened after my last post are:

1. I have passed my Final Strategic Management Paper in Ateneo Graduate School of Business last December and
2. I have finished defending my Paper also last December. The last requirement is to pass the revised paper and
3. I did just that during the first week of January 2006

Now after finishing my studies I am now able to focus on the following:
1. Doing the plans I made in my strategic paper in the section I am handling and carrying it through.
2. Be able to concentrate more on issues in the school I handle particularly faculty and administrative tasks.
3. Be able to be more regular on my clinic schedule which took a large compromise during my studies.
4. Be able to study more on the clinical and medical aspect instead of administrative aspects.

What I miss and wish I can resume are the following:
1. Return to sports activity like jogging or brisk walking
2. Be able to climb mountains or hike again during weekends
3. Able to sleep longer on Saturdays!!!!!! (just for now)

Now is that not a busy schedule?
Yes I believe that is a hectic one.

Blog out.....

Buyer's BEWARE!!! Things you don't take for granted

2005-10-25T23:50:00.000+08:00

Last Sunday, October 23, 2005, I had a bad experience with Ace hardware in SM Megamall. I was buying a multi-socket extension cord that was priced at 529.75 pesos. Since I happen to have used my credit card, I then realized after getting my receipt and signing the credit receipt that the item was not priced as printed. It was 20 pesos more when it was read through the bar code.

Actually, I don't mind if it is 20 pesos more expensive (in this case), BUT I do mind that the price placed on the item was different from the one in their bar code system. Looking back on this, I then wanted to blog this to point out two things.

1. Never take for granted the items that you buy and the total amount you pay. There are really some instances that a store may bill you improperly (intentionally or not). It was always my habit to always compute what I buy, especially when I do grocery. This is to make sure that when I get the total, it is approximately what I computed and it is part of my mental exercise (to keep my mind sharp). Unfortunately in this instance, I took it for granted.

2. How shops respond to such problems and desire for continuous improvement. When I went to the supervisor to air my irritation, I was surprised to hear from them, that they will just cancel my purchase. What the hell was that? I don't want to cancel my purchase, I want to have them correct the price that they gave me. Now I wonder if those suppose to be supervisors did something already to correct my complaint or they just left it as it is. Which leads me to my second point, most if not all local companies don't have systems that try to see and analyze complaints and act on them. This then makes consumers fall to such bad service and PAY the PRICE literally and figuratively.

So for those of you who like to do a lot of shopping. Be AWARE and BEWARE of such things that you might take for granted.

Blog out.....

Kitaro's New Dish: Salmon Maki

2005-10-23T23:41:00.000+08:00

Last week during the Friday traffic madness that went with the 3 day sale of Robinson Boni, Robinson Ortigas and SM Mega, my gf and I had our stop over in Robinson Boni. For dinner we. tried out Kitaro, one of the Japanese Restos there.

My mom who had eaten in this resto before recommended a tofu dish which we liked. However, the one that captivated us with this resto is their new dish, Salmon Maki.
The taste was superb!!!!. Whoever is the Chef in this franchise Japanese Resto has definitely garnered a two thumbs up from me and Ana. It can be ordered either in 95 pesos or 140 pesos depending upon the number of pieces you will get.

The sauce and salmon together with the cucumber and sesame seeds gave a very good combination of sweetness and flavor to the maki. Quite exquisite that you want to order for more. :)

If you happen to see this resto and check out the food, I will recommend it based on my experience with them. A relatively large serving for their orders together with good food and a reaonable price. Now that I am blogging this... I am now craving for their maki. :)
Blog out.....

My long nights has paid off in Ateneo MBAH

2005-10-15T14:14:00.000+08:00

To continue my blog yesterday, I had my last official class in Ateneo MBAH today. (October 15, 2005) I was eagerly and anxiously waiting for my consultation with my professor. She of course discussed her overall comments for all the papers and gave more recommendations for the format.

After that it was consultation time. And I was surprised to get a 3.75 over 4 (highest) for my partial paper!!!! WoW!!!!! as in WoW!!!!! I was so happy, ecstatic, jumping for joy and smiling. My hard days and nights work with almost no sleep for 4 days gave its fruit. :)

Of course, I could not have done it without the cooperation of the people I continuously asked for records, assistance and all the ways how to get data. Without them and the support of the hospital administration, definitely I could have not done it.

Now, I still need to do the last part of the paper. The strategies and hopefully make revisions in my paper to make it better. :)
After that, it is time for the last act of my term. Oral Defense in December or January 2006.

After all the work and hardship... it is almost over. :)

I also would like to thank my beloved love, Ana, for her undying support even with my bad mood during the making of this paper. Thanks honey.
And definitely without the guidance and blessing from the Almighty (being spiritual now), I won't be able to make this one.

But come to think about it, the harder part will be doing this in actual life in my hospital.
But that is another story to tell....

Blog out!!!

Staying up all night: When it is a choice or don't have a choice?

2005-10-14T23:12:00.000+08:00

My last term for my Business Management in Health class is almost through. We will be having our last meeting tomorrow and it will be the official last class with my colleagues in Ateneo. We have been together for the past 7 terms that is almost two years plus 1 term. I am happy that it will be over in terms of having Saturday classes and get somewhat a regular weekend.

Now why is my blog title staying up all night. Well.... since this is my Strategic Management course... I had to make my Medical Business report and by December the oral defense. Now, since I have to make the paper, I almost did not sleep for 4 straight days just to make a good paper. (I hope so[fingers crossed]) I never realized how hard it is already to keep awake and still make sure I am as alert and sharp when doing the paper.

My last time to do this kind of "no sleeping" stuff is way back in medical training. Wow!!! that was sometime ago (years) and I have to be candid to say, I don't have the same stamina before in keeping myself wide awake. In this respect, I did not have a choice.

This then made me wonder... If I am going to do this kind of "no sleep" thing to do the stuff that I will enjoy, say have a grand party then this won't be a problem. I just seem to realize how it is so hard to keep awake if you don't have a choice and be able not to sleep at all if you like not too.

Can anyone give a suggestion on how to like to do a report and not fall asleep?

I am open to suggestions and who knows the one who can suggest a terrific solution might get a noble price. :)
Blog out....

Myth Busters of Discovery Channel: Two Thumbs up!

2005-10-05T22:00:00.000+08:00

Discovery Channel have produced a nice series that prove or disprove myths. This is known as the Myth Busters. Two geeks, Adam and Jamie are the hosts as well as the myth busters. I am very much amused as well as learn from this show.
One of the things they busted is the cellphone causing a spark or explosion in a gasoline station. Local newspapers and even email caused a lot of concern regarding news of exploding stations due to cellphone use. Well, after watching this series, it was just.... a myth.

Try to check it out and I assure you, you will be entertained on how they systematically make their experiments. It is definitely a laboratory experiment with entertainment value.

Mercedes Benz Mixed Tape selection: A Free set of MP3 songs

2005-10-04T23:01:00.000+08:00

When I got my first iPod about a year and a half ago, I was thinking of how to fill up the 20 gig capacity with songs. I have converted all my CD selection and yet it only occupied 1/4 of the capacity. (I have a small collection) And then at about the same time, I stumbled upon the Mixed tape collection of Mercedes Benz (MB).

They give a set of 15 free MP3 music that you can download. A new set of MP3 collection is given by MB every 8 to 10 weeks. It is now on its 9th set. The download file ranges from 90 meg to 110 megs. Definitely something to look forward to get and add to my music collection.

Just make sure your pop-up blockers for your web browser is turned off in order to complete the download. Hope you enjoy the music. Happy listening. :)

$100 Laptop for Children, Can it be possible to get it for our Country?

2005-10-03T22:10:00.000+08:00

Nicholas Negroponte Chairman and founder of MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) introduced the $100 dollar laptop. BBC news posted this news last September 29, 2005. This would be used for their project One Laptop for Child which will make children from developing countries have access to a computer.

The unique feature of this laptop is that it can be connected to an AC outlet or you can charge the battery by cranking up the handle of the laptop to charge it. It will run on Linux and is internet and network ready. I do hope that this laptop will create some interest to a local Filipino social entrepreneur or philantropist who will make it possible to reach the children in the provinces and remote areas.

A good example here are the children in Benguet wherein we gave some books and school supplies before for their use. They walk several kilometers everyday just to have class. There is only one teacher for all levels. Having this with them will greatly help in their education and hopefully make them have a better future.

My dream here is that a non-profit, non-stock group be able to get these laptops and have it distributed to these children in the remote provinces. Then have SMART,Globe, Sun cellular or PLDT give free access to make sure they have the capability to connect to the internet. If Mr. Negroponte has his dream, this is mine for our country.

The children are our future and making this dream to reality will definitely make the country's future more hopeful. If you have any ideas on how to make this dream for our country happen, please let me know.

Blog out.

State of Medical Learning

2005-09-30T18:40:00.000+08:00

As I was making my patient rounds in the hospital, a medical intern was assisting me. Since I am fond of giving teaching rounds, I asked some questions to her in order to stimulate her medical analytical thinking. WOW!!!! I was instead surprised on how much these medical interns go to the hospital and know.... aahhhh... oohhhh... aahhhh.... Did that drive the point?

I would have been more understanding if this is her first month, but after rotating to the medical department wherein neurology is included, I was shocked that they are not even familiar with the reason behind the particular medicines that are given on such patients. I even asked her if she read and gone through the basic equipments in our rehabilitation department. After 1.5 weeks she was just able to check and read some. After that I stopped lecturing. I felt frustrated.

This is not the only case. I also had my faculty staff meeting in the PT College yesterday. The staff are so much disappointed with the 3rd year because they don't even read their books. They rely only on handouts or lecture notes given to them by the medical lecturer. They study by memorizing and not even knowing the rationale (which is important in medicine) of why it is the procedure or management to be done. What is more disturbing is that these students are even complaining that they are being pushed to read. Duh!!!!!!!

Is this the present state of the general population of students? Are they just content in doing trivial things and not taking seriously their would be profession. What is sad to see is that their parents are sweating blood and tears just to make them finish and they don't even try to make it a worthy effort in reciprocating.

What have we done to the new generation? Filipino young blood who don't give a (censored) on what they need to be responsible about.

Teaching them starts at home. I do hope we teach our own children the value of education and the value of having values.
So which one are you?

Blog out...

September Birthday Bash

2005-09-29T11:14:00.000+08:00

As the month of September ends, I am quite surprised to see that those who are dear to me are all jam packed in one month to celebrate their birthday. And due to my so hectic schedule I even forgot to greet one. Gosh!!! I should be burned to the stake. Hahahaha!

But as a offering of peace, I am greeting her and the rest in my blog.
First and foremost. Ms. Merci Guilas A very dear friend of mine who I met when I joined my mountaineering group in 1998. She became my very close friend when I was in tough times. And this I owe her my friendship and my loyalty. She kept me sane in my insane state. :) And of all the persons that I missed to greet, it is her. Sorry Merci. But definitely, I will be there always for you. Happy Birthday.

Second. Two of my college classmates in UST PT. Dr. Maita Senadrin and Dr. Grace Ang-De Guzman. They are good classmates of mine. We are still in contact with each other even after college and medicine and residency. We refer patients to one another. Actually they refer more to me than me to them. :) But they are great friends who I treasure very much. Happy Birthday!

Third. Ms. Rheena Buenaventura who was my PT staff in the hospital before she went to the US. Someone who is "kachika" (easy to chat with). Owe her one since I was not able to meet with her when she went back here in Manila. Wow, I have a lot of things to settle with people. Hahaha!!!. Someone who is dear to me and I wish her the best. Happy Birthday!

Fourth and not the least. Ms. Gemma Javier is my internship coordinator in the PT school where I am the dean. A very dependable, reliable and close colleague and friend. She deserves the best and I hope in God's good time, she will find the right one for her. God Bless and Happy Birthday!!!

Blog out.....

CDR King is truly King!!

2005-09-28T09:26:00.000+08:00

One of the best things that are found here in the Philippines are good and relatively cheap computer medium/data storage. One of the outlet stores that exemplify this is CDR King. They have a wide range of CD/DVD products but also have good and cheap mice, some inkjet refills, CD sleeves, etc.

They have many outlets in Manila as well as Cebu, Pampanga, Baguio, Bulacan and Davao. Why am I putting them on my blog? Definitely this is not a paid advertisement but simply to let you blog readers know where to find a good buy. The very item I am so happy about is their own Flash Drive.

I have been scouting for the past weeks for a good and affordable flash drive since I am planning to give that to my staff this coming Christmas. And I am surprised that they offer their 128 Meg thumb drives at only 680 pesos. If I get in volume, they can still give some discount.

One thing I am happy about with their product is the fact that even in their manual, it has detailed instructions and FAQ not only for the Windows OS but even for Macintosh OS. Wow! Glad to see a product that supports both since one usually sees items that are geared only for the Windows OS.

Bought one for my staff since she will be having her birthday this end of September. I do hope she will like it. It will be definitely be very useful for her faculty files.

Now, where are my old floppies? :)
Blog out......

3 Week Hiatus and Aissa's blog

2005-09-27T23:55:00.000+08:00

As usual, the past 3 weeks was a very hectic schedule for me. Deadline for my final masters paper, deadline for my entrepreneur paper, deadline for my medical association projects makes my whole body move back and forth. I do not even know where to start and even end. Now this October, I will be having a lot of meetings again. I definitely need a good R&R after all this. I do hope I can still find the time to again update my blog.
--
Of a different topic. My co-PinoyMac member Aissa has a very nice blog. Do visit it at aissa.blogdrive.com

Till next time. Cheers!!!

This Week in Tech: One of my favorite podcasts

2005-09-07T18:55:00.000+08:00

Podcasting have been growing in popularity particularly with the iTunes Music store supporting such endeavors. One of the tech podcasts that I find very entertaining is This Week In Tech. It usually runs around an hour of podcasting hosted by the well know tech guys such as
Leo Laporte,
Patrick Norton ,
John C. Dvorak to name a few.

The podcast usually discusses the weeks news but with each persons opinion. The thing that makes it enticing to listen to is the very entertaining way they discuss things. It is not so much heavy in terms on listening to how to's or step by step thing but more on the way technology is affecting us in real life.

The best thing is that they now go from using skype to communicate with each other from doing it on a live audience (Episode 21) in an Apple Store. After listening to it, I would say the show have made it good even though they don't have paid advertisements.
For the podcast and its concept. Two Thumbs up!!!

Movie Trailers: Shows to look forward to see

2005-09-05T23:19:00.000+08:00

One of my past time is watching movies. Either at home watching a VCD/DVD movie or simply going out and watching it on the Big Screen. It is for me a form of relaxation. Since I have a very hectic schedule, I often not see the new coming movies in the newspaper or in TV.

So here comes one of internet's "Godsent" website. Apple Movie Trailers give an extensive lineup of upcoming movies as well as former movies. It gives me a sneek peak on the latest would be shows. Just like AeonFlux wherein Charlize Theron (one of my favorites) plays the role. This will be shown in December 2005.

Either in windows or mac format, you can view the trailers. All you need to do is have quiktime in you computer(Windows download or Mac download). You won't regret it, it is definitely a nice site to see potential movies to watch. So as we say in our own language, "Tara na, manood na tayo." Happy viewing!!!!

Leo Laporte: My Favorite Tech guy

2005-09-05T10:50:00.000+08:00

I remember the days in TechTV when Leo Laporte and Patrick Norton would be doing their tech-geek stuff on a weekly basis. I love so much the show due to their very light yet full of content style of presentation. Unlike other shows who are so serious, these guys were excellent hosts and tech gurus.

But as for all shows, it was not meant to last. Gone are the days that I savor watching their show. Now after a few years, the iPod revolution came in and there also came the podcasting. I was so fortunate to know that Leo is back in KFI the tech guy. Now even though I don't see him in TV at least I have the chance to listen to him in his podcasts.

I find his website (click on the title) very informative and useful particularly to the Windows users in terms of security and to the Mac users who like to add more nice cool programs.

Thus I want to share to you this great tech guy in our time. It helped me a lot and I do hope it also helps you.
Happy Computing!!!!

Reminiscing my Mountaineering Days

2005-09-04T20:07:00.000+08:00

When I finished my specialty training in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in 1997, I was so sick and tired of being confined in the hospital for the X number of years of training and duties. This lead me to seek the outside and go into more adventures. This lead me to go mountain hiking and joined a group Metropolitan Mountaineering Society.

My almost regular monthly adventures to different mountains and provinces in our country was one of the best years of my life. I enjoyed the company of my colleagues in mountaineering. I found one of my best loves (unfortunately it did not work out), and I found my passion to make sure that I live up to the challenge of scaling our mountains. From Mt. Pulag to Mt. Apo, Mt. Kanlaon to Mt. Banahaw, how I wish I can climb again.

After 2 years of hiatus due to my masters class, I am planning to relive my adventures once I have successfully accomplished my masters thesis.

If you plan to climb or just want to see the beauty of nature click on the links and then decide. As for me, once a mountaineer, always a mountaineer. And the links above are my favorites to relive my trekking days.

TipicPC a computer "Buy and Sell" in the Philippines

2005-09-02T13:13:00.000+08:00

What a hectic week but as I promised I will be posting some of my favorite sites while surfing the net. Since I am a computer and gadget lover I have to recommend one that does an online "Buy and Sell" in the country. This is TipidPc.

I can't exactly remember how I found out about the site but it has been a great place for me to hunt down bargain prices for some computer equipments that I need both for my personal and office use. I have been able to even sell some of my stuff here.
The nice thing about the community/forum is that sellers and buyers have a profile and feedback section. The ones you have dealt with can give feedback on your credibility. This gives a first time buyer an assessment of the particular character of the seller/buyer.

Another great feature is the ability of the user to bookmark the items you are following. This minimizes searches for you especially if you are canvassing for an item who has many sellers.
One of my best finds here is the 2.5 firewire/usb enclosure that is not available locally. Another good buy is a fully working Epson dot matrix printer for only 1000 pesos. Of course one should have the determination and persistence to always check out new updates.

The site is a windows/pc dominant buy and sell site but you will be able to see also some Mac based equipments. Again just be diligent to browse around the sections.

So if you plan to canvass for some hard to find items or good bargain offers try it out. You just have to register in order to access their buy and sell community.
Happy hunting!!!

Date with my Mom

2005-08-30T00:00:00.000+08:00

My Monday was a slow day. Since it is a holiday today, I was not pressured so much in my time sched on my clinics.
What was different today was that I got to get a chance to be with my mom.

You see it will be her birthday this Tuesday, Aug 30. It will be her 72nd birthday. Still very active and does not want to be told to not do anything. She prefers to always do something or work at home.She went back with me to Manila since I went home to Bulacan in the afternoon for my clinic. And in SM North we got to have dinner together.

I am so blessed to have a mom who at her age still is quite active. I just thought to myself that spending time with her is great. This was reinforced when I was informed that the mom of my classmate in Ateneo and even the mom of my prof was hospitalized. I am praying for their fast recovery. I also had a patient referred to me who was also confined due to a stroke.

This made me think that with such time given to me with my mom, it is best to cherish and appreciate the time spent with her.
I just don't want in the end that when she is not with us anymore, it is then the time that I will wish that I should have spent more with her.

How about you, have you spent your time with your love ones? Do it now or you might not get that chance anymore.

Weekend Recap

2005-08-28T23:50:00.000+08:00

My weekend was jam packed. Saturday was a full day in school. I listened and took a video recording of our STRAMA (Strategic Management) class. Since the discussion was regarding our paper for the subject, I thought of taking a video of it and used it as a reference.

Actually, it was way of making use of my ibook and imovie connected to my

2.5 macally enclosure with my 60 gig HD via Firewire. My Sony HC40 videocamera is then connected to the macally to daisy chain the units.
I set iMovie to record the class directly to the enclosure.
By lunch time, I finalized the arrangement of the clips and converted it to QT movie for my classmates to take home too.
Then had another class in the afternoon.

But that is just the start.
By Sat evening, me and my girlfriend went to the PinoyMac 2nd anniversary at Pier One ortigas. The get together was great. Met some new and not so new members. Placed a face on their avatars. Luckily I won a GC worth 200 pesos for bombproof equipment. Thanks to Jay who is the owner of the shop. :)
Howevere, I did not like Pier One. Unfortunately since they offer wifi the party was there. But the food in my opinion sucks.... I wish they make the food better. And as for the service, I do hope they make it better too. The staff need a lot of training regarding how to handle themselves when there is a lot of people. (They don't like people- I think).

Then Sunday came and went to the Philmug Photo shoot meet. DJ hosted the meet and the ones who gave the talk on camera tips are great. However, when it was time to shoot in UP, me and my gf had to go ahead to do some shopping.

Now as the week comes in, this will be a MORE hectic one since I have to finish my paper deadline next saturday.
But as the week was ending, I have already thought of what my theme will be for this week. It will be my own personal favorites in the web.

So stay tuned.

Bogus cheap price for a laptop

2005-08-25T23:55:00.000+08:00

My brother recently bought a HP NX6120 Notebook PC for his medical needs.

At a price of approximately 43,000 pesos (~770 dollars) that seems to be a good buy. But I then found out that the unit does not come with a Windows XP operating system. You have to buy that separately which is an additional 5000 pesos.
Personally, I really don't get the idea of why Philippine computer resellers here are selling such laptops without an operating system included. They want to show the price is low but without an OS.

Come on people. Who are the marketing people behind this? You want to give a false belief that it is cheap?
And the other wierd thing is, my brother had to download the HP drivers needed specifically for this unit. Wow and it should have been bundled at least.

I dont know who to blame here but come on laptop companies, what are you doing? By the way, HP is not the only one doing it. IBM also with their Thinkpad R50e.

In the end, the end user gets cheated away with this deal.

Topsy Turvy Life

2005-08-25T00:21:00.000+08:00

It is so hard to work in a multi-tasking world. That is my world. As a physician I go to my clinics everyday. Not only that, I also handle a paramedical College that I attend to and manage at the least thrice a week. Aside from that, I go to my province (1hour from Manila) twice a week to see patients too.
Now I also need to be home before 9 PM daily since I also help manage my mom's store beside my residence. That leaves me a few hours to do..... ummmmm.... my gosh..... I cant do anything anymore....
Oh.... I did forget to mention that I also go to my masters course in Ateneo every Saturday the whole day..

Now when I reach my house... I cant call it my home since it seems it is my workplace too... I am just too paralyzed to do anything anymore. And the other bad thing is.... I cant get to sleep early since I have my sleep cycle all wacked.... That causes me to wake up late in the morning... Oh.... I cant wake up late... I still have to open the store too....

Wow, I am definitely not in the best of moods today. I guess I am nearing the stage of being burnt out.

Before when one of the nuns who handle the religious section in our school advocates silent retreats and when I also took the leadership class in Ateneo, I was introduced to the reflection in silence. I saw onetime that there is a retreat done in Ateneo that will go on a 30 no speaking/silent retreat.

Wish I could do that... I am not sure if I can finish it, but definitely I will be needing a lot of time for me to just be silent and hear silence for just even a short period of a few days.

I really need one badly....

end blog

Hello Blogging!

2005-08-24T08:59:00.000+08:00

I never realized that Blogging needs discipline and commitment a lot.
You see this is not my first blog experience. I had one in another service but unfortunately I was not able to follow it up since April 2005. This was due to a lot of work in the hospital, school and my master studies in Ateneo.
Now when I went back. My blog site is Deactivated!!!!
So sad to realize that I have to visit it and log it every 30 days.
Learn from experience and go on.
Now that I found Blogger.com I have 2 wishes.
1. Hope I enjoy my experience with Blogger (I am sure about this. :) )
and
2. I take a few minutes at the least every week to update my blog.

The previous long blogs I did before took so much time that of course in the end I was not able to continue.
My present objective to make it consistent is have short and concise blogs

So wish me luck.

Cheers!!!!