My Journal -- November 2008

 

November 1, 2008

 

I got up at past 5 am. I immediately drank hot coffee at 5:30. I started biking through Polot. At six, I was already there. I scrubbed Papa’s tombstone. I then decided not to paint it when I saw unpainted tombstones.

 

At six-thirty, I went to Liman. I handed the P100 to Reno. The amount given by Tita Lo to Nicole. Then, before I swept dried leaves in our roofless house, I conversed first with Many Aday, who was in the river, doing laundry.

 

At eight-thirty, I was done cleaning. I ate first bihon and puto in a carinderia as my breakfast.

 

At nine, I reached home. I helped in sun-drying palay.

 

Before ten, I texted Mj. I said “Sbihin u ky Nnay, cia n lng humingi ng pera kna T2 Jay para sia n lng mkbili ng lupa. Ayko n mpunta s iba. My plano aq dun s lote. Ggwin qng social gathering venue.”

 

She disagreed. “Malabo ata un. Ung mga hnhingi ng anting pmbubong wla nangyayari e, lalo p kaya kung malaki halaga. Bkit ayw u s iba? Db ms importante ngaun maayos ung haus?” she said.

 

I replied “Ayko sa iba kc un nga ang bisness plan q. Ggwa aq ng hall dun s bba, n pwd prentahan. S ksal, atbp. Bahala na! Wla p lumkpit skn. Ska bka baratin lng.”

 

Again, she defied my point, saying “Wag u muna icpin mga future plans u. Ung haus muna. Mtagl p nman un. Gs2 n tlga nmin mkauwi.”

 

I said “Kya nga. Bka lng nman. Naicp q kc bka kya d tyo mbgyan n T2 Jay at Nick kc my lupa nman tyo n ibbenta. Bka gsto rn nla ng my kpalit ung ibbgay nla stin.”

 

“Ewan q s knila. Bhla na. Bsta kung may interesado at d k bbratin bgay u n.”

 

I replied, telling her that I really will.

 

I was so occupied in palay sun-drying. My entire body was very itchy. Good thing was my back was not aching.

 

At four-thirty, I biked through Polot Public Cemetery. I lit a candle in Papa’s tomb. I wanted to do it also in our roofless house, but I could not because Ate Marie—Mj’s aunt, talked to me about Onel. I showed them his and his wife’s photo.

 

I was so bored in the cemetery. Thus, I went home at 6:30 pm.

 

Mj and I were text-conversing. I asked her what Hanna’s reaction was when I left them. She said “Nlungkot. Minsan nga pg gabi na, sbi nya ‘Ang tgal nman Papa q.’ Akala nya uuwi k. Parng ms lalo aq nging mlungkot ngaun kc bitin tlga ung time ntin e.”

 

Then I realized that it’s the reason why she was anxious to live in Polot. It was not due to the hardship of living with her family.

 

 

 

November 2, 2008

 

I did sweeping while drinking coffee. Later, I did some bonsaiing. I repotted some of the ficus trees of Aileen. I also planted the cut branches of them.

 

At nine, I helped Celoy in scattering palay in the buladan. Later, I was in front of the computer.

 

At eleven, I cooked rice and fried fish.

 

Before lunch, Papay Benson annoyed me so much. I almost exploded in rage. He shouted on me when I tried to sweep on the astray palay. I wanted to cry. Good thing my tears did not fall.

 

During lunch, he tried to lower down my angst, but he failed to. It so happened that Ate Quennie asked me to help her. Thus, at one, I went to Bulasu. Helping her somehow helped me in forgetting temporarily my annoyance.

 

However, it still lingered on me even after I helped Ate Quennie at 5 pm. So, I did not go home immediately. I stayed in Pon-od Bridge.

 

At 5:45, I stayed in Aileen’s house. I watched tv and later I used computer there.

 

 

 

November 3, 2008

 

Since it rained, I had a chance to wake up late. It was 7:30 when I rose. I just fed up the chicks, then I went upstairs again.

 

Jano texted me at past 8. He said “Tol, Dec 13 ang alumni event. P500 ang ambagan. Dec 21 ang binyag ni Courtney. Msta?”

 

I could not reply because I have no load. And even I do have, I will not reply.

 

At nine, Skye and I went to the shore. I let him play with Langwit’s kids.

 

Before ten, I was cooking our viand.

 

After lunch, I was playing jigsaw puzzle in the computer. I was hiding and avoiding Papay Benson. I was still mad at him.

 

At two, I took a nap upstairs.

 

Aileen was the one who cared for my allowance. She handed me P40 as my partial allowance for a week. I knew she would tell it to Papay Benson.

 

 

 

November 4, 2008

 

I wished the rain would continue so that sun-drying of palay would be postponed. I was still annoyed to my uncle. My heartache had not subsided yet.

 

However, the sun shone. Thus, I waited to be directed. When I got bored, I did something. As the result, my hot-tempered, insensitive uncle spoke evil. He thought, no wanted to help him. He said “Pg nalupa ini na mga paray, war ana ako ipakaraon sa iyo.”

 

It hurts. I was not true. I really wanted to help. I just did not like to be treated as if I am an animal. Being cursed, shouted, or scolded is foul.

 

I did my best to make Papay Benson satisfied. I did not leave the buladan. I see to it that he could see me working always.

 

I succeeded in my goal. I could see his satisfaction on his aura.

 

Even until the last 45 minutes of 2:30 om, my first period class, I was thinking of what help I could do so that the palay would not be wet by rain. Good thing it did not rain.

 

I went home early because Ma’am Enolva was absent.

 

After dishwashing, I used computer since Aileen left to Tahimik. I stopped when they come back at past 8.

 

 

 

November 5, 2008

 

While drinking coffee, I was sweeping in the buladan. Later, I started washing my clothes. I did not even finish it because I helped in sun-drying palay. Kuya Bambi and I did the lifting.

 

Ate Ningning did the rinsing of my clothes.

 

I stayed and attended the palay very well, so that Papay Benson would not fret.

 

I greeted Mj a happy birthday at 7 am. She could not reply due to loadlessness. But I hoped she was happy on her big day.

 

I was so tired after sun-drying palay. My whole body was very itchy, too. But I did not mind it. I took a nap.

 

Fifteen minutes after five, I went to Managa-naga, specifically to Amy’s house. She was not there yet. I talked to her Mom for few minutes. Then she came. We conversed until past seven. According to her. She wanted to take 18 units of Professional Education like I was doing, next year.

 

Then, I went to RGCC to attend Founder’s Day. Ate Salve, Ate Che, and Tinax were there. Past eight, the program ended. I left my 3 classmates; I promised them that I would be back. But, the truth was I will not. I just texted them ‘Sori.” But I have learned from Ate Salve that they go home as well.

 

Mj and I text-conversed at 9 pm. She said, “Sna mkauwi k s Pasko. Gs2 k ulit nmin mkasama ng kds. Mis k n nmin. Cge gudnyt. Iloveyou.”

 

I confirmed that I will really be there. I also told her that our Christmas break would be on December 20 until January 4.

 

 

 

November 6, 2008

 

I greeted Mj a happy monthsary and Frenel a happy birthday at past 5 am. Then, I slept again. I got up at 7:30.

 

While drinking hot drink, I did my report in TS 2. I had a chance to do it because it was raining. We had nothing to do outside. Thus, I prepared my visual aids.

 

At past two, I was in school.

 

I was the 2^nd reporter in TS 2. I gave it to them. The ears were all lent to me. Ma’am Giorado complimented my report.

 

During my vacant period, I ate snacks in the canteen together with my classmates. Later, I saw Christian Garilao. He enrolled in 3 subjects. One of them was my subject, too.

 

At past 5:30, Auntie Vangie texted me, talking about the P500 that Rona gave me. According to her, she let Tito Sam hand-carry the amount through Mama. I was so glad for it. I thanked her.

 

Later, I notified Mj about it. I was sure she would be glad to know about it.

 

At six, I was home because Ma’am Enolva was absent again. I wanted to blame myself for enrolling in that subject. I should had been enrolled in Assessment 2 (Prof Ed 9) being instructed by Mr. Dipad.

 

Kuya Pape asked favor from me. He wanted me to make a computerized receipt that proves the P25,00 cash payment for Rommel Gonzales. I would do it tomorrow.

 

I slept early.

 

 

 

November 7, 2008

 

The sun shone early; thus, I prepared the buladan by sweeping on it. Later, I made a rough draft of a receipt, which was requested by Kuya Jape.

 

At 7:30, I left house. I went to a computer house and typed the draft. I made it nicely.

 

Then, I helped in sun-drying palay.

 

Mj texted me. She had learned about the P500. It was such a blessing for them.

 

At past one, we were done sun-drying palay. The rain fell after re-sacking.

 

I took a nap until 3 pm.

 

Ma’am Gerona was not able to meet us due to some reasons, thus I spent the time reading the book ‘The Art of Happiness’ by his holiness The Dalai lama and Howard C. Cutler. I found it interesting.

 

I walked briskly through home. It was one way of saving my allowance—my tight allowance. It would somehow help me cover my personal expenses such as going to Polot.

 

 

 

 

November 8, 2008

 

I did not wake up early because I knew we would not sun-dry palay today. The buladan was still wet. Instead, I read upstairs. I was just occupied at 9 am. We mixed cement and sand and did masonry.

 

Watching tv at 10 am to 11 am was my activity that entertained me so much. It made me craved for a home of our own,

 

After lunch, I was in front of the computer. I was there for two hours.

 

Tv watching gain at 4 to 5:30 pm. Then, I went biking. While doing it, Mj texted me, asking for my text message/ presence. Thus, I told her that I would go to Polot tomorrow. Later, I have learned about Tito Jay’s bad luck/fate in Japan. The latter was being chased by Japanese authorities. He could not even go back home. Mj said “Malabo na tlga na mbigyan tayo.”

 

For me, it was okay. I suggested that we must pray for Tito Jay’s safety. He must not be caught.

 

I was taking notes at past six.

 

I had a sleepless night due to toothache. I was so mad, but I talked to God.

 

 

 

November 9, 2008

 

At five o’ clock, I got up. I immediately drank hot coffee and left after a while to Polot. I was riding a bike.

 

I started cleaning right after I reached our house. I planted some ornamental plants. I then swept off the dried leaves. At seven, I began scrubbing the cement of the house—especially the finished part. My only rests were the breakfast and lunch eating. My back ached slightly, but I still continued cleaning.

 

Before 4, I was done. I have done a few landscaping, a bit of fencing, and planting, but the most satisfying outcome was the eradication of mosses in the floor, walls, or cemented parts of the duplex.

 

Papay Dico handed me the notice from the office of City Assessor at 3:45. It stated the market value of our roofless house, that according to it – a building. I wondered why we still must pay property tax though we were not living there.

 

At five, I texted Mj and Flor, Mama, about my conversation with Tata Avic, who wanted to rise a house in our lot, promising he will pay the monthly property tax. He’s the one, Mama Leling was referring to. I thought he’s ready to buy in cash. But he’s not pala. He just wanted us to cook or fry us in our own fats.

 

Mama disagreed. She suggested me to look for a cash buyer, for we need cash.

 

I cooked our dinner at past five.

 

At 7:35 pm, I have written a letter for Mj. It goes like this:

 

Honey Mj,

     Hindi na ako mangungumusta sa inyo dahil alam kong nasa maganda naman kayong kalagayan at umaasa akong ganun nga.   

     Ako, mabuti naman dito. Mahirap na masarap.

     Pero, hindi iyan ang dahilan ng pagliham ko, kundi ang masabi sa’yo ang mga pangarap ko.

     Kanina, habang nagpapahinga ako sa pag-scrub ng semento ng bahay sa Polot, nag-daydream ako. Ang sarap pala mangarap ng gising. Tila totoo rin. Ngunit nalungkot ako pagkatapos, dahil matatagalan pa marahil na makamit natin iyon.

     Simple lang naman ang hangad ko. Ang akin lang ay makauwi na rin kayo dito, pati na si Mama. Sana magkaroon na ako ng karera upang sa gayon ay paunti-unti ko nang matupad ang pangarap kong paraiso.

     Noong bago ako magtapos sa kolehiyo, ang ultimate dream ko ay magkaroon ng hotel-restaurant-resort in one. Sa tingin ko kasi dito ko maisasagawa lahat ng mga hobbies, talents at skills ko. Kasama ko noon ang mga close friends ko na sina Amy (nasa lending firm) at Frenel (nasa Dubai) sa pagpaplano.

     Ngayon, gusto ko na lang ng mas simple.

     Nakadalo ako sa kasalan na ginanap sa isang private venue. Maganda ang lugar. Naka-landscape. Pero, di-hamak na mas malaki ang lugar natin sa Polot. At, di malayong madaig ko pa iyon sa pagka-landscape.

     Gayunpaman, iyon ang naging inspirasyon ko sa pangarap na ito.

     Since, mahilig kami ni Mama sa paghahalaman, hindi ito imposible. Hindi imposibleng magawa ko ang planong ito paunti-unti. Subalit bago iyon, dapat muna nating isaalang-alang ang tirahan natin..

     Nalungkot ako dahil wala naman palang cash buyer ng lote. Ibig sabihin, matatagalan pa ang pagpapabubong natin. Matagal pa kayong makakauwi. Matagal pang matutupad ang pangarap kong paraiso.

     Kanina rin, habang nagpapaalis ako ng sakit ng likod, nag-imagine ako..

     Si Hanna at si Zildjian, naglalaro sa damuhan, naghahabulan, nagba-bike, gumugulong-gulong sila sa ibabaw ng well-trimmed na carabao grass.

     Tapos, ikaw, nag-i-spray ng mga orchids.

     Ako, nagbo-bonsai.

     At si Mama, nakangiti habang nagmamasid sa atin.

     Haay! Ang sarap mangarap!

     Gustong-gusto ko na ring makabalik sa Polot. Kung pwede nga lang ako matulog doon ay ginawa ko na.

     Minsan kasi sumasama ang loob ko dito. Nahihirapan din akong makisama. Kailangang lagi akong nakikitang nagtratrabaho. Nakakainis nga pag may palay o panahon ng palay. Andami-dami. Nakakainis pa pag umuulan. Kailangang magmadali. Nakakapagod.

     Ganun pa rin pala ang allowance ko (P20/day). Sobrang tipd talaga ako. Minsan, pag nasa mood ako, nilalakad ko na lang pauwi. Kasi pag TTh, 2:30 ang pasok ko. Kailangang mag-snack. Hindi pwedeng hindi kasi nakakagutom talaga.

     Gayunpaman, lagi akong inspired sa studies ko. Teacher’s pet ako ng isang old-maid na prof. She loves to call me to recite. Sa iba naman, nag-e-excel din ako.

     Sana nga makatulong ito sa pag-aaral ko. Ito kasi ang tanging paraan sa katuparan ng mga pangarap natin—hindi si Tito Jay. Hindi ang pagbebebnta ng lote.

     Sana maging matiisin ka at matiyaga, dahil ganoon din ang ginagawa ko dito. If it’s God’s will, makukuntento na ako sa kung ano ang meron ako..

     Ingat kayo lagi.

     Tsups!

                                                                                                           Bee Pores,

 

 

 

November 10, 2008

 

Sweeping in the buladan was the first thing I did after waking up and gargling. Later I read the book I borrowed, upstairs. It was eight when I started sun-drying palay. I was so occupied.

 

At past eight-thirty, Before I went to the market, I mailed first the epistle to Mj in the post office.

 

While sun-drying palay, I was reading the book of Dalai Lama. I have learned that stress is more likely to appear to the person with no intimate relationship (with spouse or friend). I’m lucky that I could at least talk or open up to my wife and friends.

 

At past two, we were done sun-drying palay. The palay were just covered with tarpaulin.

 

At past three, I was using Aileen’s computer. I stopped after one hour.

 

In our second period class, I decided to purchase shoes from the Boardwalk being dealt by my classmate. I ordered a canvas shoes worth P479. It’s one-month to pay. Thus, I must save for it. I began saving right after the class. I walked through home.

 

I slept late because I watched the premier of Pinoy Fear Factor.

 

 

 

November 11, 2008

 

As usual. I must wake up early so that I could hot hear negative words from Papay Benson. I made sure that I was being seen by him.

 

Mj texted me at 9:45 am. She told me that the P500 was already spent to our kids’ milk. I also related to her about the shoes I purchased on credit from Boardwalk.

 

Jano texted me at 10 am. He asked if I could join the first alumni homecoming of ANHS-Annex (now Maximo L. Gatlabayan Memorial High School). I said I would not. Then, I was questioned again if I would be there on December 21 for Courtney’s Christening. My reply was ‘Di aq sure…’

 

Because of sun-drying palay, I had to take a bath with a few hours rest. We were done re-sacking palay at 2 pm. Then, I had to be in school at 2:30 for my first period class.

 

In fact, I was minutes late.

 

Ma’am Girado called me out in front of the class and told me to report of the absent reporter. I did it in impromptu manner. Good thing, I have done it clearly.

 

During my vacant period, I talked to Patrick, Tata Avic’s grandson. I fabricated words that would not hurt them why Mama did not like them to build a house in our lot. We did not talk about it much. He asked my help in planning for his program, which was ‘English Week Celebration.’

 

Afterwards, I summarized and made a written explanation of Catherine Cimanes’ report in Prof Ed 9. I finished it in one seating.

 

Since it was raining at 7 pm, I could not walk through home. Thus, I stayed in the library. I took notes, then I skim read the book I borrowed.

 

The rain stopped at past 8 pm, so I decided to walk through home despite of the growling stomach and a bit of drizzle.

 

 

 

November 12, 2008

 

At six-thirty, I rose. I did usual chores, but I hoped the sun would not shine. It was so tiring. I wanted to rest today and to read and to watch tv.

 

At ten, we started sun-drying palay. Iwas about to make Nonoy’s report in Poetry (Literature subject). But I had to postpone it. I pursued it later.

 

While sun-drying palay, I was reading a fiction, book of Og Mondino, entitled ‘The Twelfth Angel.’ I loved it. It was all about belief and courage. It was a story of a man who found the wisdom in living, after the lost of his son and wife, through the presence of a little boy, who resembles his 7-year-old kid. I could not focus on it because I was the only one taking care of sun-drying. Kuya Bambi did not help in combing the palay grains, but it was okay.

 

At three-thirty, we were done sun-drying. I took a rest while I was using computer. At 4:30 I did watch my favorite lifestyle show, which is Offbeat America. Watching it gives me ideas in house construction, art working, and collecting off-the-wall things.

 

I was not late in my first period class. In fact, I had a chance to pursue reading. An when I came home, I read again. It made me drowsy.

 

 

 

November 13, 2008

 

I asked God to let the rain fall today. I wanted to rest. Just read. Just watch tv. However, I still swept in the buladan.

 

While waiting for the sun to shine, I pursued reading. I thanked God for the windy and cloudy day. Thus, I had a chance to finish reading ‘The Twelfth Angel,’ which made me shed tears. I liked the story so much! It was one of the best stories I have ever read so far.

 

I stayed upstairs until 1:45 pm. And at 2:15 pm, I left for school. I borrowed book in the library after returning the book of Og Mondino. I borrowed the fiction of James Redfield, entitled ‘The Celestine Prophecy.” I started reading it in the classroom.

 

During my vacant period, I was asked by my classmate to answer her assignment in Science. It was about measurement. So, I had to convert millimeter to centimeter and so on.

 

I walked through home again. On the way, I met Tonet. I asked her why she did not enroll. She said “Mao na kay burod ako.”

 

“Mao?” That was all I could say. What’s the problem there? I thought. Hmmm. It was none of my business anyway.

 

 

 

November 14, 2008

 

I got up at 7 because it rained hours ago. I knew we would not sun-dry palay today. Instead, I spent time reading after drinking a hot drink.

 

Mj texted me at past 10 am. She said “Ntnggap qn lttr u nw lng. Hay! Srap tlga mngarap prho tau. Gs2ng g2s q n tlga umwi. Ready n nga ung mga things n ddlhin. Sna mangyari n un. Asap!”

 

I have no load. She knew it. She sent these messages later:

1.  Gs2 q nga ialok ky K Sonny kht kpiraso lng. Pg n2loy ung bbli ng lupa nla s Bso2. Ska s cousin n Nnay n tgaBula dn.

2.  Hrap dn aq d2, llo n pg naapi ang kids, syempre d nmn cla ang pbor2. Sna mangyari n un. Gs2 n rn ni Hnna umwi, gs2 n nya mgskul sbay daw kau.

After dishwashing, I wrote the lectures in prof Ed 14. And at 1 pm, I encoded my essay “An Esay of a Writer” in the computer. I could not finish it because of technical error. Aside from that, Papay Benson scattered palay in the buladan that needs to be re-sacked before the rain falls. Later I helped him again to sun-dry it. I was so annoyed because there was no sunlight. My tv-watching activity was quite distracted. At past three, I decided to grab the large sack, where palay was being dried.

 

I stayed upstairs later. I read and took a nap.

 

I was 15 minutes advance, not late. I went to the library and sat in front of Jenny Pelia. It so happened that she needs help. Thus, I spent all the remaining time answering her assignment. I explained 13 principles of blah blah in all. I was glad I had helped her in a little way.

 

Ma’am Golloso was absent. However, I waited for her arrival. I read ‘Celestine Prophecy’ while waiting. And after one hour, I walked through home.

 

I was almost home when Jomar insisted his silver bracelet to me. He pawned it to me for P50. He just needed money for the due credit to a cologne dealer. Though I did not fell wearing it, I accepted it because he was so insisting. Besides, it was just a pawn.

 

Mj texted ne at 8 and 8:30 pm, respectively, to wit:

1.  Musta n u? Mis n mis q n txt u… Iloveyou.

2.  Naisip q lng pg uwi u d2, bili kta lgayan ng 2big. Prang thermos n mliit. Tpos mg-uwi k mrmi biscuit pra baon u skul. Kc kulang tlga ang 20 n baon u.

 

I was touched by her messages.

 

 

 

November 15, 2008

 

It was 8 am when I rose. It was a rainy day. Thus, I had a chance to wake up late.

 

After breakfast, I went to Polot. Papay Benson told me to do so. I would tell Papay Bading to reap the mature coconuts. Si I did despite of drizzle.

 

Papay Bading and I were done the task at 11:30 am. It made my nape ache.

 

I was home at past 2. Instead of resting, I used the desktop. Afterwards, I texted Mj. I asked her what the conversation was happened between her and Mama last Thursday. She said that Mama would be Tito Sam’s caretaker of their house when they migrate to Canada.

 

It was good news. Thus, I advised Mj to be patient or yet to look for a job because our plan is still elusive at this time, since I was still studying.

 

I said, “Gs2 q dn n kau pg 3 yrs n c Hnna. Eenrol q n cia sa Prep1 pra mtlino. Bsta truan u plgi ang kids. Dpt book lover dn cla.”

 

She ran out of load, so our conversation was cut.

 

I went upstairs early. It was after I dish washed.

 

 

 

November 16, 2008

 

At eight, after helping in preparation, we left to Guruyan, Juban. We would visit the wake of Ate Ningning’s mother-in-law.

 

It was nice to be back in my former childhood place. It had been 20 years since I had been there. I studied Grade 2 there.

 

I could say that the barangay prospered for I could not even determine the exact lot, where our former house where located.

 

Val, Delon, and I conversed while waiting for lunch time. After lunch, Delon and I played a card game. Later we drank brandy. I shot only 5 or 6.

 

At three-thirty, we left Guruyan. It was 5:30 when we reached home due to a lot of stopovers.

 

 

 

November 17, 2008

 

Though I had a sleepless night, I still got up early to sweep in the buladan. The sun rose so beautifully. It signified whole day sun-drying of palay.

 

Before we started the task, I washed first my clothes, and I took a bath. After scattering the palay, I went to Bulan Municipal Hall, specifically to the Assessor’s Office. I asked there why they must send us a notice, stating that our roofless house is a building with a market value of P1,500,00 plus and we must present it upon payment. A clerk said that we did not have to pay. Okay! That’s what I wanted to know.

 

Then, I did marketing and cooking later.

 

Mj texted me at 8, but I was only able to reply to her at past 12. We talked about usual matters or about our greatest dream, possibilities, the ring we pawned to Joelynda, and many more.

 

Sun-drying palay is indeed a tough job. It tanned my skin. It made ne sweat and itchy. I could not focus on reading. I could not even watch tv for long hours. Hoo! But I had to be patient and strong.

 

Papay Benson and I did the re-sacking of palay. I was exhausted. It was the most tiring sun-drying moment I had ever experienced.

 

While resting, I watched tv, which somehow alleviated my exhaustion and fatigue. Thus, after doing some schoolwork, I retire early.

 

 

 

November 18, 2008

 

Sun-drying palay again! It annoyed me so much, I wanted to rest today, but it seemed impossible because the sky was blue.

 

Plus, Papay Benson irked me. He was so bossy. I hate being manipulated excessively. Though it was my obligation to follow him, he must not overly practice his power.

 

At eleven, Mj and I conversed through text messaging. I have learned about Hanna and Zildjian’s frequent quarrel, and Tito Jay’s soon-to-arrive package. She also gave me hope that his uncle is still willing to help us build a home in Polot. Thus, the latter should soon be employed in Japan.

 

Going to school is sometimes annoying. I could not have whole time for my own agenda especially in reading in the library because my classmates keep on asking help from me. They would let me answer their assignments, summarize, and explain their reports and any other. However, is till accepted all of them with a smile. It was my pleasure.

 

After borrowing Ate Quennie’s Module 1, I copied the vision and mission of DepEd. Later, I read her module 2, so that I could explain it to her.

 

 

 

November 19, 2008

 

Sweeping was the first thing I did after waking up. Later I did laundry. And while waiting for the sun to dry up the wet buladan, I stayed upstairs, reading the fiction book I borrowed from the library yesterday, entitled ‘Tex’ by S. E. Hinton.

 

At past nine, I started spreading the palay. Then, I pursued writing.

 

At one, I took a nap. It was after we covered the palay with tarpaulin due to rain. And at past 2, I had to help in re-sacking them.

 

Reading, I was again after sun-drying palay. Then, at past 4, I watched tv, viewing one of my favorite tv shows.

 

Five minutes to go when I reached the school. I have just taken a seat when my classmate asked for my help. I explained a few lines of her report. Geez! Is this my role in this school?

 

As I walked through home, I saw Bigit beside the road. I told him “Lakaw-lakaw lang.” At least he knew now that I’m patient, that I’m thriving. I’m proud of it.

 

After supper, I returned the modules to Ate Quennie. There, I explained to her about multigrade teaching and peer teaching. She handed down me again the module 2.2. I read it at home. Then, I summarized it.

 

At ten, I slept. But before plunging into subconsciousness, I replied to Ate Che’s text message. She said “Hi, hope ur stil awake. Actualy jst wnt 2 clarify dat s ako k lng iwas, nrway lng me kan Celin.Taz s Ts ta s ako k nkaimod while nangisog. Why?”

 

I replied “Dri man tlg aq umiiws. Mis q n nga an bondng ta. Abt dun sa TS2, dri aq nngisog s saro lng, kundi sa intero. It so happened lng n nkaimud aq s imu. 4get it! C Tina kya an dpat natu kwstyunin. He he. Gudnyt!”

 

Then, she answered back. “K. I dnt want dat some1 get mad at me and specially frnd q p, Aniwe if dat so, thx nman. C Tinay tyempo n lng ako. S Fri and Sat seminar ta so we have tym 2 get 2 gether. Disco tau s Sat. Ako taya s entrance and I Coke/beer. Teart q kau he3x.”

 

I liked the idea however I ran out of load.

 

 

November 20, 2008

 

Before I went downstairs to drink coffee and to sweep, I first read the fiction book I was perusing since Tuesday. I finished it. Then, I went back upstairs since we could not sun-dry palay. It was a rainy day. I instead read the module 2.3 of Ate Quennie and made a lesson plan of Four-Pronged Approach as requested by my classmate named Infante. Later I suffered from bugtaw in my right hand. It started yesterday. Thus, I rested upstairs while I was reading.

 

I prepared early in going to school. While waiting for a tricycle, Tiyo Tor, who was vulcanizing a bike, said “Inbabadil niyan an nag-eeskuwela kay malistoon. Malalampasan sira.”

 

I just uttered “Mao? Diri man ako nag-eeskuwela, naglalakwatsa lang.”

 

He annoyed me. He was always a bad-mouthed one. Why does he need to say those words? If only I’m not educated, I will answer him with worse words.

 

In the library, I started reading a fiction book that I just borrowed. It’s entitled “Jay’s Journal. Anonymous” by Dr. Beatrice Sparks. I picked it because I’m also writing a journal. When I read it, I found it interesting.

 

During my vacant period, I joined my classmates slash close friends in the canteen. We had a nice, noisy conversation. Ate Che implied about my being aloof. So as Tina’s. I reasoned out “Nagsisiway ako pero wara ako kaupod,” unlike Tina.

 

Then, I spent the last minutes of vacant period in reading.

 

At five-thirty, Michael Arevalo sat beside me. Later, we had a conversation about many things. I wanted him to be a friend since I am only the thorn among the roses – I mean, I am the only male in the first batch of methodists in RGCC. Who enrolled this year. I hoped we would become buddies like Glenn or Efear.

 

Before I slept. I decided not to join the pre-service teachers’ seminar to be held tomorrow at 9 pm in RGCC because I wanted to attend classes. Besides, I do not feel like asking money from Papay Benson. He might fail me.  

 

 

 

November 21, 2008

 

It was a rainy morning. It freed me from sun-drying palay. I was reading at the very early hour, but I had to run errands. I bought gasoline ang brought it to the rice field, where the tractor man was plowing. I was home at 10 am.

 

I was watching tv at 10 am:45. I just must stop due to Tonton’s request or favor. It was his first time asking me for help. He gave me the photocopy of his report in, I think, in Credit and Collection. It was a bank appraisal report and credit policy.

 

After doing it, I texted Auntie Vangie, asking her about the vehicle they are selling. Mj texted me yesterday and asked me again a couple of minutes later.

 

Auntie confirmed it. She said that they are selling it for P65k. I replied to Mj. And I hoped we would be compensated if it was a closed deal. At least, we could buy milk for our kids.

 

I took a nap after using the computer. Then, I read.

I went to school ten minutes earlier. However, Ma’am Geona did not give a lesson. She just got the attendance. Geez! We were only eleven. Forty plus were in the seminar-workshop.

 

I pursued reading while waiting for the second period. However, Ma’am Golloso did not show up to us. She was in the seminar, as well. Thus, I finished the book I was reading.

 

At seven-thirty, after borrowing another fiction book, I walked home. Walking did not exhaust me. It seemed I was used to it.

 

Reading the book by Kaye Gibbons which is ‘Ellen Foster,’ is the thing I did before going upstairs. I found it nice. It’s a story of a girl, who has a drunkard father.

 

 

 

November 22, 2008

 

Right after having a hot drink, I ran errands. I bought gasoline again and went to the rice field. I washed my uniforms when I got home. Later, I cooked gulay na langka and fried fish.

 

At past nine-thirty, Mj and I were texting. I have learned that she was cleaning at Tita Lo’s house. We talked about the van that wanted to buy by Tatay’s friend.

 

At ten, I helped Aileen in sun-drying her 3 and a half sacks of palay. I read while doing it so. I could relate to Ellen, the character in the story. I could remember Papa when he was still alive.

 

Jomar redeemed the silver bracelet he pawned to me last week. We thanked each other.

 

At past four, we were done re-sacking palay. I immediately went upstairs and read. I took a nap later. I went downstairs at six to half-bath.

 

I liked to use computer, however unfortunately Eking was watching tv there. It was not good if I would consume electricity while the tv set was on. Thus, I joined him in viewing his favorite show—WWE. It somehow entertained me.

 

 

 

November 23, 2008

 

Though I knew we would have a hard time or long time waiting for the buladan to dry up, I still rose early. I just swept a little there and stayed upstairs again – to read.

 

At nine, I ran errands. I also bought pork for our lunch. I cooked it immediately.

 

At past eleven, I began palay sun-drying. Gary helped me with lifting. I was, later, inspired to do it because I received a balato from Papay Benson. He won in jueteng.

 

At three, we were done re-sacking palay. I felt something achy in my right chest, but after a few minutes of resting it was gone. However, Papay Benson directed me again. I bought gasoline and fish using a pedicab. It was my first time driving it. Thus, I had been very careful. However, I failed. The side of it bumped into a parked tricycle. Good thing, it did not cause a traffic or more than that—a bloody matter. I just heard a holler form a male’s voice. I was so ashamed and afraid. I just drove forward to alleviate the shame. I took double care in driving home. I thanked God for it was just a bump. What if both Jasleen and I have a terrible accident? It’s my fault.

 

After salting the fish that I bought, I watched tv. At six0thirty, I was viewing an interesting show ‘Ang Pinaka’ on QTV 11 that’s featuring ‘10 Smart ways to Manage Your Money.” I listed them as if I have lots of money. 

1. Pay your debts.

2. Mutual funds

3. Bank deposit

4. Bonds

5. Stock market

6. Real estate

7. Entrepreneurship

8. Buy foreign currencies.

9. Pre-needs plan

10.    Invest in antiques, paintings, and arts.

I have also learned the meaning of stocks, bonds, and mutual funds and their differences which I have not learned in my college days. Watching television is indeed helpful.

Now, I have choices, if ever I possess much money.

 

At past 8, Mj and I text-conversed about trivial matters. I had to bade goodbye so that I could reply much to Efear, who has just texted me after several weeks. He asked about fasting, which I have no idea about. But I tried to give my point of view according to what I have learned in the tract and preaches. He was not going to do fasting. He just wanted to know.

 

It was 9:30 when we quit texting due to sleepiness. It was okay. At least, we had a communication again.

 

 

 

November 24, 2008

 

 

I swept in the buladan first before anything else after I woke up.

 

Last night, I asked Him to make rainy day today because I wanted to rest. However, the sun shone wonderfully, so I must accept that I would be exhausted again today—the whole day. I realized that it’s better to end or finish all the sun-drying tasks before I take a rest. This is supposedly the last day that I would sun-dry palay. Hopefully!

 

At 8, I was in a rice mill, facilitating the milling. When I got home my chest ached. Since the rain fell at 9 am, I had a chance to take a nap. I got up to eat at past 12, when I made sure we would noy sun-dry palay. It was still cloudy.

 

I stayed upstairs until past 4. I read lexicon, as a preparation for the contests, I will join to.

 

I was taking a bath when Shobee, Efear’s half-sister texted. I have learned from her that she stopped schooling so that his half-brother, Prince, would fulfill his dream of going to Japan.

 

Knowing I could not wear the shoes yet, that I ordered in Boardwalk, saddened me much. I hate wearing black leather shoes ang maong pants every Wednesday.

 

 

 

 

November 25, 2008

 

At two-thirty am, I was awakened by a tearjerker dream. I could exactly visualize it.

 

I arrived late –not too late, to graduation exercises, which were about to begin. I forgot how I or why I came late. All I knew was that I had an adventure before my arrival.

 

My hair was still wet. Excess water was flowing down my neck, wetting my toga—a violet-shaded toga.

 

Jano; Romeo—my high school friend and classmate; and two other girls were on the scene. They all teased my pale lips.

 

Romeo was annoyingly laughing at me. One of the girls suggested putting lipstick on me. So, I asked for it. However, Romeo was still laughing. I just did not care about it much.

 

The graduation ceremony was being held in a weird location. Hundreds of graduating college students were on a cement-fenced area, which was elevated. Parallel to the court-like venue is the stage.

 

I was outside the half-body fence, without a seat since I was late. I liked where I was because I could make an easy pass whenever my name is called.

 

After I was put on lipstick, the emcee started the program. It was introduced by a graduation chorus.

 

As I was singing, I saw Zildjian, Papa, and Mama on my right side. They were standing in an elevated area of a squatter people’s place.

 

Zildjian waved his hand to me. I was so surprised by their presence. I felt like I was moving, without stepping my feet forward. I wanted to embrace my son. I could not sing since I had a candy in my mouth, and I was already teary-eyed.

 

I saw Mama ten steps away from Zj and Papa. She was crying. They were so proud of me.

 

I got up to pee outside. When I went back to my bed, I thanked God. I knew it was a message to me. He gave me success beforehand. All I must do now is persevere and study hard because He already made a place where I can prosper.

 

Another is the success in the contest that I will be into this week. I knew I could bring home bacon.

 

I was not occupied today due to frequent drizzling. I instead read the book I borrowed in the library yesterday. It’s entitled ‘The Nebraska Quotient’ by William J. Reynolds. It’s a mystery fiction.

 

At two-thirty, I was already in school. I registered for essay writing, poem writing, and spelling bee contests. I wanted to join in quiz bee, but it conflicted with my 2^nd period class.

 

During my vacant period, my friends and I bonded in the canteen. Later I went to the library and read a dictionary.

 

After the second period class, I walked home. It tired me but I must do it until I could. I must save for my shoes and fare to Antipolo City in December.

 

Kuya Bambi and I went to a computer or internet shop in Pon-od. He wanted to see his text mate in Friendster. However, I was not able to find or search her picture until the one hour of striving I was still in failure. Geez! I was so dumb! Computer dumb.

 

 

 

November 26, 2008

 

While having coffee, I was washing my clothes. I rushed it because I knew I would be occupied today. Hence, at past 8:30, we me, Delon, Skye, Eking, Aileen, Sandoy, and Pablo) went to Polot to sell smoked fish. It was Delon’s decision. It irked me much. I was supposed to be reading.

 

In Polot, I did almost all the dealings. I forgot the shame. I enjoyed it somehow. But when we got home, I was disappointed that I waw not even rewarded. It made me laid-back to my obligation—palay sun-drying. I just let Kuya Bambi do the task. However, I helped at one, after the disappointment subsided.

 

At two-thirty, we were done re-sacking palay. Hopefully it was the very last sacks we are going to sundry.

 

I played computer games at 2:45 pm. I opted the language game, which would help me intellectually since I was registered to three contest categories that will take place tomorrow.

 

Before I left school, Patrick—the president of the Society of English Propeller, which is the sponsor of tomorrow’s affair, told me that the opponents in three categories backed out when they found out that I was joining. At first, I did not believe him, but I must because of others’ confirmation. I did not know if it was a compliment. But it called for the best performance tomorrow.

 

It was past 11 am when I read Mj’s text message that she sent at 9:45. She said “Sna mgawan ntin ng praan n maayos agd ung haus pra mkaalis n kmi d2. Mhrap tlga mkisama. Hrap n tlga kmi ng kds. Sna mngyri n un agd. Gudnyt!”

 

It made me sad and sleepless. I was empathetic to her. It was so hurtful as well to my part because I could not do anything.

 

 

 

 

November 27, 2008

 

My dream made me giggle and laugh. I wished I have no problem at all. But the truth is I’m in trouble, involving my mag-iina. I wondered why Mj experiences them all since she is living with her real family.

 

I knew this was just a trial. I must be tough and pliant. I will stand still. I will never mind the hardship of being here just for the sake of our future.

 

Today, I thought of my upcoming preliminary exam. I asked God to bless Papay Benson, who needs money. He must buy fertilizers for his rice fields. I might not be given if he did not earn this week. Then, I told it immediately to Aileen.

 

I read lexicon. I also saved words and definitions in my cell phone, as a preparation for my competition.

 

Ma’am Girado indorsed my essay ‘Buhay Estudyante’ to the Rover Publication. I was both glad and sad. I was glad because I could read and see my work in the campus cream. I was sad because I had no chance to make it better, though I knew I wrote it with heart.

 

I bonded with my close friends while I was vacant. They keep on laughing, thus I found myself gloomy. I was so frustrated due to the postponement of the competition. It would never be held. The contestants backed out. Geez!

 

At seven, I passed through K-Mart. I was enticed to get in. And after seeing the price of shoes, I like, I went back to school. I told Mrs. Gobis, Boardwalk dealer that I won’t wait for the arrival of shoes. And I could only leave it unpaid because I was planning to go to manila. She did not disagree to me. But she could not give me back my P100 down payment.

 

I purchased the Vans Canvas shoes immediately for P299.75 from my savings.

 

Walking home, I decided that starting tomorrow, I would never walk home again because it would only lose my calories. Besides, it’s so tiring.

 

I read before I went upstairs to sleep.

 

 

 

November 28, 2008

 

It was seven when I got up. Later, I grilled lawlaw fish for our breakfast. Then, we (me and Kuya Bambi) started sun-drying palay. I was glad doing it. However, my obnoxious uncle hurts my fragile heart. He was so insensitive and inconsiderate. He spoke meanly as if I was not tired and as if I have no right to complain, to fell exhaustion. Did he forget that I have weak lungs?

 

Just to console my heart, I washed my shorts. However, it did not help me. Thus, I went to the shore. I did sight-seeing there and I took a fresh, Godly breeze. It somehow lessened my anger.

 

When I went back home, I faced my bonsai trees. It was when Gigi saw me. I have learned that the bonsai I gave to him many years ago is now a big shrub. I looked at in their house. Then, I had a short conversation with him and his mother, his wife, and sister-in-law, who claimed that we were classmates. This anyhow reduced my irksome.

 

I gave Gigi another bonsai since they asked.

 

Before twelve, while we were trying to hide the palay from rain, I was shouted at by my bossy uncle. It was like a spear that thrusted into my heart. I wanted to shout out loud, but I held myself. I knew the right, but it was not righteous if I will do it. However, it made me commit sin. “Pardon me, oh, Lord, so as him.”

 

I left home at 2 pm. It was part of my hurt feelings. I went to Municipal Public Library first before going to Ate Salve’s house. It was past three when I arrived there. We sang along and eat merienda as Ate Che’s blowout for her belated birthday.

 

Maila texted me at 8mpm. I congratulated her foe passing the LET and I asked her for tips on how to pass the exam. She advised me to sleep early, relax, and eat healthy breakfast; buy 2008 Edition of Reviewer (MET); and take Pharmaton. I thanked her.

 

I did not walk home. Instead, I researched in the library. I started collecting reviewers for LET. I took notes of the Principles and Strategies of Teaching. I would do it every after my last period and vacant.

 

 

 

November 29, 2008

 

I swept in the buladan. Then, I waited first for the sun to dry up the surface. While doing so, I was reading the book of Katherine Paterson, ‘Bridge to Terabithia.’ It is a children book. I found it great.

 

At past eleven, we were done re-sacking.

 

After lunch, I went to Bulasu. Ate Quennie lent me the modules 1 and 2. I wrote some of topics there.

 

While writing, Mj requested for load from me. I knew she was in need or in trouble. I pity her. I wanted to buy her load, but I did not want to know the problem that went on there because it would only hurt me much.

 

I read and write. Doing it so gave my fingers rest for a while. I pursued writing at Aileen’s house. I also used computer for a while.

 

Taiwan texted me. Announcing that he had acquired PC from his salary. It was his first material thing purchased since he worked in the resto. I was glad for him. Thus, I craved to expedite my schooling. I wanted to work na so that I could have financial freedom.

 

Amy texted me as well, promising that she would give me load tomorrow. I thanked her in advance.

 

 

 

November 30, 2008

 

After breakfast I started the laundry. I had to run an errand— in the rice fields. Thus, I was done at 10:30. Later I cooked our viand.

 

Good thing, I was not directed to sundry palay. I had a chance to rest. Though, I could not sleep due to terrible heat. It’s okay. At least I was not exhausted.

 

At past 4, I finished reading the book I borrowed last Friday. Later I began cooking.

 

After cooking, I stayed in a cradle near Tiya Mila’s house. There I felt sad. I missed my kids. I wanted to her from them. However, annoyance lingered within me. I hate Mj’s text messages that contain impatience and complaints about with her real family. Sometimes, I wanted to reprimand her because it did not encourage me.

 

We both feel hardships of not having a house of our own. But we could not do it so far. That was why I was persevering. Sometimes, I fell like giving up. Living here is so tough, so panful. However, I must stay as long as I could until I gain success.

 

I knew living in Polot is not impossible, but it was elusive so far. I could not provide yet. Thus, I or we must wait.

 

I am willing to wait for two or more years. I hope Mj will comprehend all of these. Money is so hard to earn. No one is silly enough to give us or finance the reconstruction of our roofless house in Polot. It would only be realized if there was a buyer of lot or if I win in the lottery.

 

While in the cradle, I also imagine that I was with my family this Christmas. We went to a children-friendly spots, where my kids enjoyed the sights of colorful, sparkling lights.

 

Haist! I was afraid I could not even treat them to Jollibee or I could not buy them gifts, like what happened last year.