Tuesday, January 9, 2024

2023 Recap of events!

Since I don't have much time to blog anymore, I decided to visit this page and put my recap of what happened in 2023. Again, I got busy with work and I would rather rest on my days off.

The most important thing that happened this year is when my Green card approved. Yes, I'm already a permanent resident of the United States of America! I'm very happy and grateful for another milestone here in US.

Second would be quitting my first job and work at the competitor lab in town. It was the best decision I've made. Actually I'm now PRN at St. Luke's (the first one). I had every other weekend arrangement with them but it may change once I get fully trained at Mercy. Having two jobs helped me a lot as I earn more every month. Also, working with Mercy allowed me to expand my career growth as I'm now starting my training in Microbiology section. I've never been trained to reading plates so this is a new learning experience to me. Plus, my new coworkers are awesome too.  

Third is when I finally bought a car. His name is Remy, a 2017 Jeep Renegade. I decided to buy a car because my new job is 15 minutes drive away from the house. I'm very happy that I got Remy in a lower price. In November, I finally paid him in full. I'm debt free!

If you think it's all roses and rainbows last year, it was not. Last March, my father was rushed to the hospital. His gallstones got bigger! A procedure was done right away to lessen the condition. With the grace of God, he recovered.

Last year, Matt, Ruby and I traveled to places like Winnepeg, Arkansas, Florida, and Bahamas. It was my first time to get into a cruise ship on my birthday too. We went to Minnesota thrice last 2023.

With new kababayans (countrymen) who arrived this year, I've met new new people too.

All in all, 2023 was good to me. As the new year starts, I hope that I can still survive no matter what life throws at me but I'm looking forward to another memorable events and learning events! Bring it on!

How I met Matt Hoffmann (My afam Love Story :-D)

Who would have thought I would find love in this foreign land? 

I always find myself an unattractive type because I’m boyish. My neighbors thought I’m a tomboy because of the way I act and I found myself weird wearing girly clothes. Ever since, I’ve never been into a relationship just because they said I’m intimidating and I don’t blame them for saying that because I think I am.

When I was in the Philippines, nobody courted me. I know it sounds petty but it's true. I thought I would be single forever so I thought what if I'll give it a try? I was 27, 3 years before I pass the dates in the calendar so I think it’s time to come out of the shell and mingle with guys so I tried dating sites. True, you’ll find dozens of men to chat with but unfortunately I don’t see a spark in them. I feel empty still. But you can never tell when love hits you. I guess love just finds its way.

Here’s my story about how I met Matt..

I was already working in the United States. At that time,  I was still a trainee in the lab so I had weekends off. I would never forget the date: March 6, 2021, Saturday around 10PM. 

Since it’s my day off, I decided to have a movie marathon. I was watching A Star Is Born starring Lady Gaga on Netflix. I was already halfway when there’s notification in my Facebook dating app. 

I tried several dating apps like Tinder, Bumble and Hinge but I don’t like them because you need subscriptions. For me, it doesn’t worth it most especially when you just meet a bunch of pervs and cat fishers. Sorry, just basing from my experience. I had no idea that Facebook has this dating side until I saw an ad and decided to give it a try.

Back to the story, a notification popped up saying somebody liked my profile. At this time, I was already talking to some guys regularly but I’m still open to meeting more people. When I checked the guy’s profile I found out that he’s a reporter based from his pic of a camera with a microphone in his hand. He’s 2 years younger than me too (I don't chat with younger guys than me).

With that, I found him interesting. I haven’t chatted somebody from media before. I appreciated him that at least he liked my profile. Minutes after the notification came, he sent a message and that message stood up from the rest.

It was not the typical ‘Hi, how are you?’ kind but he was asking about my interest. 

He was asking what kind of music do I want?

With that, he already took my attention. I tried to play with it when I answered I like 80s songs and OPM (original Pilipino music).

He was cool with it and he asked me my favorite song! That’s the time I sent my first song to him and that was ‘When I met you’ by APO Hiking Society. 

He also sent his first song called Cool Anymore by Jordan Davis. During that time, I don’t like country music but because of him he made me love the genre. 

That night changed my life, I enjoyed exchanging messages as I kept asking about his job and I can feel he loves to answer too! We talked till 2AM until I decided it’s time to rest. 

The next morning (Sunday), I wasn’t expecting much from this guy until he texted me again. We were getting to know more of each other.

His name is Matt Hoffmann, 24, and a reporter in NewsPressNow in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Days passed and we exchanged messages everyday, day and night checking to one another. I lost interest to the other guys so I stopped talking to them. What I love talking to Matt is that he’s fun and smart. We have meaningful conversations every day and he takes into detail what I say. In addition to that, we do exciting things like sending snapchats to which I don’t use before and exchanging songs before we sleep. 

I always think of what songs to send him. Most of them are love songs. Every day our connection grows and my feelings toward him developed. Ayeee. I feel incomplete when I don't text him.

We spent two months of talking until we decided to meet in person. We decided to watch an indoor football in Omaha.

When I saw him in person, he is tall and he smelled good. Throughout the drive, he held my hand. Our first restaurant was at Texas Roadhouse. That was my first time watching an indoor football game too. I enjoyed his company until the night came and he drove me back to the apartment.

Before I got out of the car, he kissed me. A short but sweet kiss. At that moment, I really feel butterflies inside my stomach. I said 

And the rest is history. It's now year 2024 and we're living together. Moving with him is best decision I've made. Throughout the months of living with him, I know him more deeply. Our relationship made it even better when we had our precious fur baby, Ruby! We have traveled to many places. I found out that Matt is so loving and caring to us.

Although we're not married yet but I can see forever with him. My parents really like him as well which I'm very thankful for. 

I shared my many firsts with Matt. With him, I feel secure and motivated. He's like my guy bestfriend that I can share my dreams and goals in life. 

Because of this, I thank God for sending Matt for me. He's a keeper and I pray that I get to spend more precious moments ad adventures with Him until my last day♥

Wednesday, November 9, 2022

work as MT in USA Part 1

Checklist to reach your American Dream

1. Obtain a hospital experience.
An experience of at least 1 year is alright. It doesn't matter if you're a generalist (rotated in different sections in the lab) or a specialist as long as you get exposure in a hospital setting. American employers need to know if you have performed complex tests and can operate machines.

2. Take certification exams like ASCP or AMT
As for me, I took the ASCP since most of my workmates took the same but I think taking ASCP is more advantageous as it is recognized internationally. It is accepted by countries that has their own certifying exams like middle east. Meaning, you need not to take HAAD if you already passed ASCP.
To know more about my ASCP experience, click this link.

3. Take English proficiency exams
It can be IELTS or TOEFL. The purpose of taking these exams is not just to gauge your english fluency and comprehension but it is a prerequisite to get VisaScreen. To pass IELTS, the target band score is at least 7.0 with speaking score of 7.0 and above. This is the passing score to get qualified for USA.
To know about my IELTS experience, click this link

4. Have your Transcript of Records evaluated
You can choose either Josef Silny and Associates or WES. They will evaluate your college transcripts and see of the curriculum matches that of an American MT curriculum.

4. Process your VisaScreen
VisaScreen is a certificate that recognizes that you are eligible to work as a healthcare professional. It took me 3 months to process all of it before they FedExed my certificate.

After that you may now start your search of an employer thru browsing the internet or asking assistance from an agent.



CPD UNITS TO RENEW MY LICENSE

Last January 2019, I was able to renew my medical technologist license even though I didn’t meet the required 45 CPD units of 3 years. I only got 27 points. I just took the opportunity to avail the waiver before this privilege is abolished.

Before I booked an appointment, I secured my certificates first. PRC has reiterated that each seminar should have an accreditation number and its corresponding units. But do you know how much each of the seminars cost me?

·         Hematology training – 3000Php worth 10 CPD units

·         Blood Bank training – 2500php worth 6 CPD units

·         Parasitology training – 3000php worth of 11 CPD units

Imagine, I spent 8500 pesos for these seminars and I still owe them 18 points! Huhu.

I could have presented my drug analyst training certificate but since it doesn’t have CPD units, I just kept it.

HOW TO RENEW YOUR LICENSE?

Obviously, you need to renew your license before the expiration date. Since we have to do online appointment, it is advisable to book your schedule months before the expiration date. In there, you choose your preferred date and don’t forget to take note of your registration code.

When the appointment date comes, bring your certificates and go to PRC office early. Pay the renewal amount

For me, the CPD is just another burden for medical technologists in the Philippines. This should be abolished as soon as possible. Who in their right minds would require CPD units, when each seminars cost an arm and a leg and our salary is not enough to sustain us at the end of month? I mean, come to think of it!

 


Suppressed feelings

'Silently hurting is arguably better than gone wrong confessions.' - Anonymous

Hi! How are you doing? The feelings will just stay to where it should be. Don't worry. Although I was not able to tell you what I really felt before I went away but I guess it's better to keep it that way. I'm afraid that if you'll soon find out, I will lose the friendship between us then I'll go back to being a stranger. I'm not the risky type. I'm not the person who is vocal to my feelings. It will just be awkward to both of us if I confess, I'm pretty sure of that. 

But you know what, I am so happy you shared that little part of yours. I appreciate you giving your spare time listening to what I like. Your simple hi or hello makes my day. I didn't think of falling for you but it just happened. Whenever I think of you, it makes me smile and wonder when exactly this feelings started.

I guess this is goodbye. I'm glad you became one of my inspiration. It's better to let these words left unspoken. After all, I'm used to this one-sided feeling. It's time to let go. It's better to admire you silently without you knowing. One day, I'm gonna look back at this moment and laugh. With another guy to crush on. Maybe in the afterlife, we'll meet someday. Who knows? Thank you for the memories. Till then.

Phlebotomist Version 2.0

So much has happened for the past two months of being away from my blog and I must say, it's hectic. I have so much in mind but for the sake of keeping this blog short, I will just put in here the most important ones. 

Well, I never thought I would be back in phlebotomy since I applied as a tech in this hospital. For 2 months, I am working as a phlebotomist to help out the short-staffed department. 

Unlike in the Philippines where we use warding trays, this time, we are using CARTS. Although the carts are heavier but it's got everything I need like blood culture bottles and bigger spaces for trash and sharps containers. It's paperless as well as it has a laptop where we can see the list of patients that needs to be drawn and indicates what tubes to use for that certain tests.

What's more is that we have this walkie talkie named Vocera which we use as our mode of communication between my phleb mates and nurses. It has cool features like it can locate your workmate, broadcast among the group, and call a nurse when you need help in getting the blood from the patients central line (PICC line).

Right now, we are assigned in overnights and had to clean up or finish two floors before our shift ends. After the shift, we rush to the kitchen to eat breakfast and rest for the whole day. 

There are two of us drawing blood from patients and there are times when we're stuck in the Emergency Room because of the STATS and Time-sensitive draws.

Because of the increasing cases of COVID-19, we need to protect ourselves by changing PPEs to each and every rooms we draw which a little bit of a hassle and time-consuming but it's for the safety of everybody. 

Rapid Response, Sepsis and STEMI alerts and especially Code Blues make me nervous. 

Sunday, July 26, 2020

A memorable vacation in Dumaguete and Siquijor (before lockdown)

Last March 6-9 2019, I had an awesome adventure with my fellow momshies: Carine, Maymay, Luma, and Abby together with Jolie, Sir Carl and Sir Louie in the island of Negros Oriental. At least, I ticked off some of my dream destinations before I leave the Philippines!

At first, I was so sorry I turned down their invitation due to personal reasons, but when I realized this is an opportunity that shouldn’t be missed, I told them to count me in and prepared myself for the trip.


GOING TO DUMAGUETE, THE CITY OF GENTLE PEOPLE

I’m from Alegria, Cebu and I’ve heard so many positive feedbacks about Dumaguete City.

This is our Dumaguete Itinerary:

·       11 PM – 6 AM We went to Cebu South Bus terminal and waited for the 11PM Ceres bus going to Bato Port (via Oslob) to get us in a RORO, a vehicle vessel ship. It was a long ride that took us approximately 5 hours to arrive at Dumaguete bus terminal. We had rented a car for the eight of us with Lumarie as our driver of the day.

·         6 AM – 7 AM Bag drop off at the Pethouse

We dropped our bags at the Pethouse, which I must say a very wonderful bed and breakfast accommodation. It was homey and the owner was hospitable. Needless to say, they have an adorable dog named Blue who greeted us with a happy bark. We ate our cup noodles for breakfast and I took a refreshing morning shower before we started our first destination.

Dumaguete is not a big city so we just explored it in just a day.






·        10 AM – 10:45 AM Smokey Mountain, Valencia, Negros

Unfortunately, the weather was unfavorable due to a low pressure area but it didn’t stop us from going to our first destination. It was lucky that Carine brought her bluetooth microphone for us to sing-along during the road trip. Before we reached the place, we stopped by a convenience store for coffee. Truly, as we went to Smokey Mountain, there was a NATURAL TOXIC GAS sign. The gloomy weather was a good thing since the geothermal vents produced more sulfuric smoke on dark. Even though it was drizzling, we still took group pictures and carefully climbed the top of the yellow barrier. One thing that should keep in mind is that it is a landslide prone area so extra precaution should be observed.









·         10:45 AM – 12:00 PM The forest Camp

This tropical resort is fascinating! So many greens around! Being a nature lover, I was enraptured by its scenic beauty. A paradise! I love how the place was developed and we got awesome pictures at some of the locations of the resort. I love the lush rainforest and the cauldron shaped pools. There was a hanging wooden bridge too! I would like to thank Maymay for her exceptional photography skills! With her, we had awesome pics.





·         12:00 PM -1:00 PM Lunch in a carinderia near Tejero resort.

We kept on reminding ourselves that we are on a tight budget so for now, we decided to stop by a carinderia. We ordered their homecooked meals and  asked ‘Ate’ to cook corned beef and scrambled eggs. We had a satisfying lunch at a cheaper price.

·         1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Pulangbato falls.

Too bad some of my comrades were tired of trekking to Casaroro falls so we just decided to take a quick visit to the soothing waterfall of Pulangbato and true to its name, the rocks are rustic because of the sulfur.







·         2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Red Rock Sulfur Hot Spring

At first, I was bothered to take a dip in to the yellowish and cloudy water but as I watched other tourists enjoying, I gave it a try. The bath was so relaxing and I thought that the warm sulfur water is good for the skin. It relieved my back pain.


·         4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Tierra Alta Resort

We made a side trip to this Santorini-inspired mountainside clubhouse. It is a perfect venue for social gatherings and pre-nup pictorials. The pavilion in its clean whites and royal blues speak of the Greek vibe. There is a lighthouse offering an aerial view of the luscious greens of Valencia highlands. With our matchy Polo shirts, we had a good time taking group pictures.








·         6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Gabby’s bistro

We wrapped the day trip with a sumptuous feast. Gabby’s is a European themed restaurant and the vintage ambiance added to the beauty. I was impressed to each of the menus for it has its own stories. They are known for their baby back ribs. When we were waiting for our orders, we spent taking pictures . I was able to taste all my colleague’s dishes. They were very delectable.






·         8:00 PM – 8:30 PM Sans Rival Bakery

Before we bought our tickets going to Cebu, we stopped by Sans Rival Bakery, the famous bakery in Dumaguete and bought our pasalubongs to our loved ones. I bought Silvanas. These are frozen buttercream cookies that are covered with crumbs. This is the signature delicacy of Dumaguete

·         8:30 PM – 9:00 PM Rizal Boulevard

Just near the port, we passed by the Rizal Boulevard at night and saw the oldest American university, the Silliman University. I marvelled the stretch of bright lampposts giving a vibrant atmosphere to chill and hangout with friends. As we were on our way to buy tickets going to Siquijor, I witnessed the beautiful sunrise at the heart of the city.

·         9:00 PM onwards Shower and rest

We were not satisfied with our bath from Red Rock so we showered once again to make sure we’re clean before going to bed. We drawed lots as to who’s gonna be bedmates. I and my ‘fierce’ mentor Sir Carl got the same number. Hahaha. We got the chance to chat with Thea in Missouri.







GOING TO SIQUIJOR, THE ISLA DEL FUEGO OF THE PHILIPPINES

Linked as a mysterious island of witchcraft and exorcism but for me, Siquijor is paradise. A remote island blessed with natural resources such as white sand beaches, waterfalls with luscious greenery, and iconic landmarks. We headed our way to Siquijor a day after. The moment we landed to the port, I already knew that there’s more to discover in Siquijor!


·         7:00 AM – 8:45 AM Ferry boat ride from Dumaguete to Siquijor

It took 1 hour and 45 minutes on a ferry to reach the island of Siquijor and this time, we had rented a jeep with a driver. Luma can now enjoy the coastal tour.



·         8:45 AM – 10:00 AM Larena Triad Restaurant and Coffee Shop

It was a good way to start our Siquijor escapade. Kuya driver suggested that we take our late breakfast at this restaurant. We arrived at Larena Triad at around 10 AM and we ordered foods from their menu. While waiting to be served, we enjoyed the vast expanse of Siquijor as well as the vantage view of the islands of Cebu and Bohol. The relaxing ambiance and spectacular view deck of the restaurant was marvellous. The foods were superb! We relished in a hearty brunch of their Sisig and Pansit. We had the chance to call Divina in Australia while we’re eating too.






·         10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Paliton Beach, San Juan, Siquijor

It took us 30 minutes to get into this hidden paradise. This postcard perfect white sand beach is lined with palm trees. I changed my outfit to have an awesome pic. You need not to worry if you don’t have someone to take pics of you because there are locals who will do it for you but for a fee of course. They would even teach you how to pose! I enjoyed swinging on the tree swing tied to a palm tree as Kuya took a picture of me.







·         1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Old Enchanted Balete Tree

The mystical tree surrounded with vines is said to be 400 years old, making it look more enchanted. But the catch is this, there’s a small pool at the base of the Balete tree for a foot spa. I found it enjoyable as I dipped my feet into the pool and fishes started to eat the dead skin off my feet! It tickled me. I sat still so the fishes nibbled my skin. We bought ice candy to beat the humidity and I chose the vanilla flavor.



·         2:00 PM – 2:30 PM Hapitanan

Since Siquijor is known for witchcraft and dark magic. We didn’t miss the opportunity to stop by Hapitanan and take a photo of us flying with a broomstick! The movie Harry Potter came into the picture. The volunteer’s photographic skills are commendable, we got awesome photos of flying to the sky! I also had the chance to have a photo op of their garden with the stunning overlooking view as my background.






·         2:30 PM – 3:00 PM San Isidro Labrador Parish, Siquijor

It is also known as the Lazi Church. This century-old Baroque church is well maintained and surely stood the test of time. Its architecture is compelling, showing how prestigious it was during the Spanish colonial era. When we went there, there was a pre-nup session.



·         3:00 PM – 4:00 PM Cambuhagay Falls

The place is most-visited by foreign tourists and I must say that this is the most epic waterfalls ever! During our visit, the tourists enjoyed cliff jumping. It is a 3-tiered cascading aquamarine waterfall where flowing rock pools and swimming holes are located. They have bamboo rafts and this improvised rope swing called the ‘tarzan swing’ in which I took the courage to try it, not just once, but thrice! Good thing, there were locals ready to assist us from the moment we swung till we splashed our way to the water. I unleashed the dare-devil in me as it was my first time to jump that 10 feet high! I even dared myself to jump a level higher but unfortunately as kuya let go of me, I couldn’t grip the swing handle anymore resulting to an epic fail jump. My chest hurt but I decided to give another try to make use of this exciting moment.



·         5:00 PM – 6:30 PM Salagdoong beach

Sir Lou dared to jump that 35 feet high cliff. I and the rest of the group remained watching. I am not a swimmer and I thought that jumping in Cambuhagay falls was enough of an experience.








·         6:30 PM onwards Glamping at Aquamare Beach Camp Resort

This was our last destination to unwind from the whole day’s fun adventure. The inside of the dome-shaped teepee style tents are very functional. It features a cozy atmosphere! The tents are air-conditioned with appliances such as television and water heater plus free wifi connection. The bathrooms had clean towels and toiletries. It could accommodate more than four people since it was spacious.









We enjoyed plunging the pool as we played message relay. As we ate our dinner, we were serenaded by the band and had a good time. Jolie and the rest were so insistent that I sing before the session ends so I just gave in and sang one of my favorite jamming songs, Para sa akin by Sitti Navarro. You know what, I felt great after the performance. There I realized that somehow, there are still people who come to appreciate my talent. I love how supportive they are to me.








Of course, we had ‘Tagay sessions’ once again and Carine opened some topics for us to discuss. The night grew and as usual, I was still sane. The vodka didn’t knock me off as I still managed to go back to our tent, woke my sleeping roommates, and dozed off.

We spent our remaining time in Aquamare before checkout by plunging the pool and pictorials. We checked out at 12 noon.







On our way to Cebu…


As we embarked in a barge and the bus going to Cebu City, we were dead tired. I slept in the bus and so was my seatmate, Sir Carl.

After a long ride, we arrived at the Cebu South Bus Terminal. Carine and Abby were night shiftees so they have to catch the time.

That was the last time I saw my colleagues as each of us parted ways. Well, that was the end of my CebuDoc journey and I’m really thankful for the company of momshies and some of my colleagues there.

Also, I was very thankful that we were able to go back home before the lockdown. I couldn’t imagine if we were stuck there with the little budget that we have.

One thing that I must add in this trip is that I find the locals in both towns friendly and accommodating. We were so unfortunate that we were able to witness how beautiful these places before the lockdown. This has been one of the memorable travels so far. If a given a chance, I would like to visit Dumaguete and Siquijor again with my family in the future.