Random Snapshots From A Moving Train

Reality Check

One of the reasons I haven't been blogging as much is because I  often find myself glued on my sofa chair, doggedly going through the recordings on our DVR. Since most of my favorite programs had their finale episodes weeks ago, I am now mainly left with reality TV viewing. Despite my appreciation for great script-written and cerebral offerings, reality TV remains one of my guilty pleasures. I do  have a predilection for those that are competition driven such as the Survivor, Amazing Race, Project Runway, Top Chef, So You Think You Can Dance, American Idol, Hell's Kitchen and American Gladiators. Although shows like "The Bachelor" and "The Bachelorette" might be more controversial, salacious and entertaining, I don't  have much interest on the drama-ridden, pseudo-romance saturated mess that are being passed off as "real". If you are a fan of those shows, there's no need to get your knickers up on a bunch. It's just my candid opinion. We all have our own taste and preferences so there's no need to argue about it.

Anyway, as I went through my mindless channel surfing, I've began to notice that there seems to be a conspicuously increasing Filipino presence on these reality shows. Some of the contestants are outrightly obvious about their cultural background while some are not so forthcoming or vocal about it. Of course, it makes me want to root for them when they give a shout-out to their Filipino heritage but just seeing them participate makes me proud enough to cheer them on. In fact, watching any Asian competitor makes me want to toot the horn and claim them as my compatriot as well. My husband thinks it's pretty amusing though.

If not for reality TV, I wouldn't be seeing this proliferation of Asian and ethnic groups on the boob tube. Years ago, there's such a limited representation of the Asian culture, both on TV and in the movies. The rare times you'll see Asian actors/actresses on screen, they were (still are) mostly playing stereotypical roles of  martial artists, illegal immigrants, housemaids, prostitutes, villains, Vietnam war vets/soldiers, and mail order brides. These unoriginal characters  are so hackneyed and not quite the accurate depiction of the cultures they are trying to project on the small or big screen. Hollywood really needs to step up with the times and get a reality check.

The explosion of reality competition shows are bringing more ethnic cultures and diverse personalities to the forefront. They have become opportunities to display that there's more to us than people with almond-shaped eyes, dark (or yellow) skin tone, short stature and weird accents. Just like anybody else in the world, we are from all walks of life, with varying degrees of education and upbringing, and not to mention, with talents and skills. Massive doses of it too.

After a bit of digging up in the cyberspace, I managed to pull up profiles of some of these participants. A few of them didn't claim to be Filipinos in the media but we do have a way of knowing somehow, right? Anyway, don't hesitate to correct me if I'm wrong in my assumptions.

First up is Ramiele Malubay.   She was one of the Top Ten contenders in the last season of American Idol. Although she was talented, I reckon she managed to stay in the competition for so long due to the collective and concerted effort from the Fil-Am voters/fans.

Dale Talde was a contestant in Top Chef season 4 whom I was a bit ambivalent about. He seemed to be exceptionally culinary gifted with a great potential to win but his attitude reeked of negativity and arrogance. Maybe the pressures of the competition got the best of him but I rooted for him anyway and was disappointed when he got eliminated. Oh, and he was originally from Chicago.

Another Chicago native who caught my attention a few years ago was Jenny Guzon-Bae.   She was part of the initial Asian alliance in the Survivor: Cook Islands. In fact, she was probably the first Filipina I ever saw competing in a reality show. She was quite articulate and she performed really well in the challenges but didn't do well enough to emerge as the sole survivor. A Korean-American named Yul Kwon took the prize home that season.

Another Filipino trying to make his mark on the culinary TV world was Louross Edralin. He's in the season 4 of Hell's Kitchen. Well, anyone who can survive the heat in that kitchen is already a winner to me. Unfortunately, Louross didn't have what it takes to withstand Gordon Ramsay's firestorm and was sent home earlier than he anticipated.

American Gladiators has always been a favorite of mine ever since I was a young girl sneaking out to watch the show in our neighbor's TV. When I learned that the NBC network brought it back, I got so excited indeed. It still has the cheesiness factor but I can't help but be impressed with what the contenders have to go through in those grueling elimination rounds. I was even more at awe when a petite Filipina-looking contestant gave it her best shot on season 2. Melissa Trinidad truly wowed me with her determination and athleticism. What an inspiration! By the way, she's a single mom and her daughter's name is Malaya (which means freedom in Tagalog). I hope she won't be the last Filipina I'll see in this show.

Well, there they are, folks. Although none of them were winners or title-holders in those competitions, I consider them triumphant already from having gone through those demanding auditions. Furthermore, they were able to overcome the hurdles and prejudice that might have trounced others before them. They're paving the way for more people of ethnicity to prove themselves in any match and arena while witnessed by TV viewers all over the world. It couldn't get more real than that.

Spring Boot Camp

As I looked out my office window, I saw the neighborhood kids out in the cul-de-sac, whizzing by in their rollerblades, obviously  enjoying the clement Sunday (73 degrees Fahrenheit). We have opened most of our windows to let some fresh air in and bask in the gentle cool breeze wafting through. Earlier in the afternoon, Kenny took our doggies to the dog park for some canine socialization and exercise. They came home so tired and sedated that we are pretty much guaranteed a tranquil night of TV viewing. After attending a kid's birthday bash last night, it would be great just to kick back and watch the finale episode of John Adams tonight. This HBO series has truly educated me more about the American history than any other books or annals. I highly recommend it.

At the party, a friend of mine recounted an interesting anecdote about her father. He wasn't such a big fan of the winter season and he probably couldn't wait to go back home to the Philippines. After living in the US for almost a year, his wish was granted and the family went back to visit the home country recently. Apparently, upon their exit from the NAIA airport, he started complaining that the weather was stiflingly uncomfortable and he echoed the same sentiments for the first few days after their arrival. As much as he was truly happy to be back, I reckon he is more appreciative now of the seasonal changes in Chicago.

In a temperate region like some parts of the US, the seasons are marked by changes in the amount of sunlight which may cause animals to go into hibernation or to migrate, and plants to be dormant. Four seasons are generally recognized: spring, summer, autumn, winter. Needless to say, spring and autumn are my favorites. The winter blues are such a drag, as most people would agree. The summer days can be such scorchers at times that it can cause people to pass out or dehydrate.

In comparison, a tropical region like the Philippines has only the rainy (or wet, or monsoon) season versus the dry season, because the amount of precipitation may vary more dramatically than the average temperature. Back then, it never occurred to me to check on the daily weather forecast or temperature before heading out. Rain or shine, all I needed was my trusty umbrella.

Now that April is giving way to May, I'm starting to put away most of my winter gear but kept some items to tide me over some cooler and rainy days. Admittedly, I loath packing away my Uggs and I'm contemplating on keeping a couple of pairs of boots around, just in case. It might be facetious of me but I do have a bit of a fixation on this type of footwear. If I can afford it, I might already have a closetful that could rival Carrie Bradshaw's penchant for Manolo Blahniks and Jimmy Choos.

What could have triggered this kind of a fetish? It must had been when I was a young girl and I laid eyes on an image in a magazine of a young woman wearing a pair of chestnut-colored western (cowboy/girl) boots. It looked so cute and hip and I remember wanting a pair so bad.

Those type of footwear were obviously hard to come by at that time, unless you count the white go-go boots that the school band "majorettes" wore during parades. I was so painfully inhibited and vulnerable about my rotund and blemished limbs that I would be the last person you'll see in public, wearing a short skirt while happily twirling a baton.

Therefore, it was not such a big surprise that I went totally gaga over my first pair of winter boots. I couldn't wait for the first drop of snow so I could put them on. I strutted around in them like a delusional runway model. It wasn't just me though. My roommates were as enthusiastic to break in their brand new heavy coats, knitted hats and scarves, gloves and boots. Of course, we had a lot of pictures taken seemingly enjoying the cold weather while holding up a handful of snow like it's the most precious thing we've ever seen. I'm guessing almost all winter neophytes have comparable images in their albums as well. I've certainly perused similar photos in some Friendster profiles. It's just one of those universal experiences we share as immigrants, I suppose.

A few weeks more and I really have to send my beloved boots to storage. I will probably mark that day by treating myself to a nice pedicure. God knows what my feet went through for the past few months. Thank goodness there are no photos of them in the Internet. That's the one image we need not share... ever.

Chicken Soup for the Blogger's Soul

I'm baaaccckkk!!! And it feels... pretty darn... super!

First of all, I would like to soothe those who might have had some concerns about my well-being due to my protracted hiatus from the blogging world. The emails and messages you have sent truly bestowed me the succor I needed to replenish my passion for writing again despite some impediments. I've had some health setbacks but nothing too ominous to be alarmed about, in retrospect. Most of my SLE symptoms are less flagrant ever since I started on a medication regimen but I must admit that my abrupt absence from Friendster and blogging was brought on by a forbidding episode a couple months ago. I believe it might have been precipitated by a particularly hard-hitting and stressful time at work and generally, just feeling the pressures of life and responsibilities. In a nutshell, I was skating on thin ice and it finally cracked under me.

I woke up one day and discovered that my entire body was seemingly ravaged with an inexplicably angry rash which of course made me itch so bad as if a colony of ants took up residence on my skin. It was indeed very uncomfortable but I was more petrified and feeling deeply despondent that things have become more dire than I anticipated. Whatever amount of bravado I had was overwhelmed once I allowed myself to mull over the likely dismal future of living with the condition. I'm not really the kind of person who will blithely profess to feeling "depressed" at a slightest emotional letdown but for a few weeks, I felt like I was just handed a death sentence. I was living in my own world of dread and panic in which words of reassurance fell on deaf ears.

Thankfully, as the rash cleared (I am now a big fan of Prednisone), the doldrums slithered away. The light at the end of the tunnel beckoned and I slowly uncoiled from the fetal position I was in. In time, I dared to rejoin the optimists welcoming me back on the other side.

Undoubtedly, unsettling occurrences and flare-ups are yet to come but hopefully, I'll be better primed and armed with my utopian arsenal of courage, faith, lofty goals and preponderant support from family and friends (including you, Friendster peeps). I've had a salubrious serving of chicken soup and this blogger's soul is on the mend. Again, thank you (you know who you are) for your unceasing encouragement and continued patronage. I hope you are all thriving and blessed in your lives as well.

Brothers Forever Fever

I've been meaning to blog about something else but when I saw the latest American Idol episode which featured a Filipino contestant named Renaldo Lapuz, I realized I just have to write about it. Judging on the many video clips in Youtube that were posted about him, I suppose he has become a household name and perhaps, an international sensation. An entertainment phenomenon, dare I add.

People are saying that he might even surpass William Hung's fame (all 15 minutes of it). Maybe Simon Cowell got it right when he predicted that Renaldo's own composition " We're Brothers Forever" will be a big hit. At least on the internet. One thing I can say is that after listening to it a few times, the song is kinda catchy and has a tendency to stick in your head. You might find yourself humming to it unconsciously or belting it out like you're in a musical or drunken stupor. You might even get creative and produce your own version of his song.

When I first saw the introduction video clip on Mr. Lapuz, I immediately guessed that he might be a Filipino. I'm sure a lot of Pinoy viewers surmised that as well. Despite his strangely outlandish (I'm being nice here) outfit, I was really hoping that he will bowl us over with a great singing talent and prayed that he would not be torn apart by the judges. That was before I realized that he was 44 years old and not even really qualified to be a contestant anyway. Uh-oh!

For those who didn't see it on TV, here's how the audition went down. If you wish to get to the actual singing, just forward to the 2:50 mark. Note: Click Pause on the Radio Blog first before viewing the videos.

So, what do you think of Renaldo's "AI" moment? Did it inspire the Pinoy pride in you or were you offended by the way he was treated and portrayed? Honestly, my reaction to this is kinda hybrid. I can't decide if I'm impressed by his chutzpah or disappointed that he didn't really quite "represent" the Filipino talent. Whichever it is, I have to commend him for his seemingly unaffected and sincere character. Despite the hilarity and absurdness of the situation, he appeared to remain dignified and genial. His positivity and genuine gratitude for the opportunity to perform was unmistakable and that authentically affable quality in his demeanor reflected well on us Filipinos, in general.

So he wasn't a great singer but he wasn't the worst either. In fact, his enthusiastic performance earned him a lot of admiration and attention that there is quite a plethora of videos dedicated to his act. Here's just a few that I like that I was able to scour in Youtube. Click away and don't blame me if you find yourself singing, "I am your brother, your bestfriend forever..." over and over and over again.

So, would you buy his record when and if it comes out? Discuss!

The Bucket List

If I were to have a set of new year's resolutions, I will have to put "Stop procrastinating" on top of the list. I've been meaning to post a new blog entry weeks ago but it seems like I've been spending more time surfing the net for the latest juicy Hollywood news (rehab or jail stints, pregnancies, Britney Spears sightings or latest celebrity hook-ups/break-ups). It's admittedly one of my guilty pleasures and a pretty trivial endeavor perhaps but it sure took my mind off more disconcerting matters in my life. Anyway, let me just acknowledge and express my gratitude to everyone who left kind comments in my previous post and those who sent messages of support and best wishes. Although most of you are virtual strangers to me, I am deeply appreciative and undeniably comforted by your thoughtfulness and sincere concern for my well-being. I've slowly come to terms with my situation and I am determined not to let these three letters (SLE) get in the way in the business of living especially since I am blessed with another year to do with as I please.

Normally, I would have my top 10 things to do in 2008 but I'm trying to set more realistic objectives and could only come up with eight, so far. I just have to be more proactive in checking them off the list before the year's end. Here they are:

1. Read a book (any book for that matter). I am ashamed to admit that I have yet to open a page of "The Da Vinci Code" or "Memoirs of a Geisha". I sure need a firm kick in the butt to make sure this goal will not make a repeat appearance in 2009.

2. Take another trip to Europe again. It might be difficult to pull off due to our three dogs (any volunteers to watch them?) but I'd really like to visit Spain, London or Greece this year. I got bit by the travel bug and there's no getting over it anytime soon. I'm keeping my fingers crossed on this one.

3. Get together with some friends from Friendster . I know there have been some tentative nattering about it and I would like to be there when and if it actually happens. It would be interesting to finally see and hear the people behind the blogs, comments, messages and photos. So, who's up for it and who's on the planning committee? Count me in, peeps.

4. Finalize my mother's petition for the US immigrant status. We're just mostly waiting for the process to go through and I'm getting quite impatient. As much as I prefer to be independent, I can't deny hankering for my mother's presence whenever I don't feel well or if I just feel like talking to someone.

5. Stay on a healthy diet and workable exercise plan . I've shed a few pounds in the recent months and signing up with Lifetime Fitness proved to be a great investment. Despite our previous chronic failures at gym memberships, Kenny and I are surprisingly more inspired to stick with the program this time around. It definitely helps that we just love their sauna, hot tub and swimming pools. I'm also motivated to learn how to swim so I could work on getting a SCUBA certification eventually. I would certainly love going to the beach more if I don't have to wear those cumbersome floaties and vest like a 3 yr-old tot.

6. Go skydiving and/or ride a hot air balloon . The mere idea of doing these activities is quite an aberration to my timorous character but having conquered the zipline in Maui left me feeling a bit more adventurous and dauntless. Let's see if the anticipated adrenaline rush is enough to keep me bold and fearless.

7. Go on a  road trip to the Pacific Coast. Inspired by Elizabeth's blog, I would love to visit some of the amazing parks and sceneries in the US. Unfortunately, long distance driving is not Kenny's cup of tea but if I can round up some friends who might be keen to do it with me, I'll be happy to get behind the wheel. I would have to save up for a GPS device though. There's no sense in being stuck in the middle of nowhere, right?

8. Watch more concerts, stage and comedy shows. I've been checking out the Ticketmaster website and found out that the Foo Fighters will be performing in Chicago in February. I'd better drop some hints for Kenny for a Valentine's Day surprise for me.

I guess that's about it. How about you guys? I know some of you are not so big into making annual pledges but here's how I look at it. There are a lot of sick people out there somewhere who probably just received the dreaded "talk" from their doctors about their dire prognosis. As painfully depressing as it could possibly be, they might have to make an inventory of things they need to do to settle their affairs.

In light of my recent health scare, I'm just thankful that I'm not in the similar quandary but I feel it's never too premature to make a catalog of experiences and feats before one "kicks the bucket", so to speak. I guess I'm just making my own bucket list  a bit shorter every year by fulfilling some of them now and getting an earlier head start in the race against time. Sooner or later, we'll run out of it. After all, we're all dying from the start. Some just got pushed to the head of the line.

Black Tuesday

I know my posts are getting to be far in between lately although there were a lot of significant events (like our new puppy, Jordan) to write about. Due to some recent setbacks, I decided to take another respite from blogging just so I can sort things out in my head. It might not be of utmost interest to everyone but I came to a conclusion that it's best to write about it. If by some measure, people learn a little bit more about something, then it's worth the effort. I've often said that each of us are just a tiny speck in the grand scheme of things but now that I have come to appreciate my bit role in the Internet global community, I aspire to make a positive dent in someone's life if possible and whenever given the opportunity.

When I first wrote about my problem with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome , joint pains and my subsequent attempt to detoxify, I left out a lot more issues that were somewhat of clandestine nature. As candid as I try to be, some things are still better kept private. But after today's events, I felt like I owe it to my friends and faithful readers to disclose and get it over with.

After working the night shift, I dashed out of the hospital to meet up with Kenny for my doctor's appointment (Rheumatology) at another building. It was a freezing, wintry and windy day and I struggled to keep warm. My fingers and toes were icy cold, deathly pale and unbearably numb despite my gloves and Ugg boots. These days, it doesn't take much to make them look and feel that way. Even just washing my hands with a cooler temperature water will do the same trick. If you ever have the occasion to see a dead person's hands and feet, that's the closest I can describe my predicament (Raynaud's Phenomenon).

On the surface, I managed to keep a facade of composure. Inwardly, I was bombarded with a jumble of emotions threatening to overwhelm what little vestige of restraint I have left. It has been a drawn-out process but I finally have the chance to obtain answers, whatever they might be. After all these months of numerous hospital visits and tests, the speculations and uncertainties will hopefully come to a resolution.

It was probably one of the longest and most thorough consultation I've ever had with a physician and in the end, the verdict was handed out. I have Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE or lupus).

Brief background: Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, heart, lungs, blood, kidneys and brain. Normally the body's immune system makes proteins called antibodies, to protect the body against viruses, bacteria, and other foreign materials. These foreign materials are called antigens. In an autoimmune disorder like lupus, the immune system cannot tell the difference between foreign substances and its own cells and tissues. The immune system then makes antibodies directed against itself. These antibodies -- called "auto-antibodies" (auto means 'self') -- cause inflammation, pain and damage in various parts of the body.

My worst fear was confirmed and I have to finally deal with the fact that things are going to be different from now on. I know this was coming but I was in a state of denial for the past few weeks, hoping for a better outcome. I am not going to lie and put up a brave front. I am scared as hell. I am mad, despondent, panic-stricken and feeling like I had been hit by a runaway train. I desperately wanted to move away from its path but my whole body was bolted down, succumbing to the inevitable ruin.

Why me? I'm sure a lot of you got some words of wisdom, reassurance and sympathy. In time, I'll come to appreciate them and thank those who really care. At the moment, all I want to do is just to run off and lick my wound. What better place to do it but warm and sunny Maui? Yes, I'm headed off to Hawaii on Friday with some friends and I'll try to enjoy every bit of this short escape although I might spend more time hiding away from the sun (photosensitivity). Before long, the real world will loom bigger and I'll have to continue living in it for as long I can.

Right now, I have some packing to do and that is something I have control of. I will try to keep blogging during the trip. I just got a brand new camera and I'm not afraid to use it. So, catch ya later, folks! Take care of you and each other.

For more info on SLE or Lupus, here are some links:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Systemic_lupus_erythematosus

http://www.lupus.org/newsite/index.html

http://www.medicinenet.com/systemic_lupus/article.htm

http://www.emedicinehealth.com/lupus_systemic_lupus_erythematosus/article_em.htm

http://www.healthatoz.com/healthatoz/Atoz/common/standard/transform.jsp?requestURI=/healthatoz/Atoz/ency/systemic_lupus_erythematosus.jsp

http://www.visualdxhealth.com/adult/systemicLupusErythematosus.htm

Fashion Nation

Halloween is now the United States' second most popular holiday (after Christmas) for decorating. The sale of candy and costumes are also extremely common during the holiday, which is marketed to children and adults alike. According to the retail stats, the highly popular Halloween costume themes for adults are, in order: witch, pirate, vampire, cat and clown. Each year, popular costumes are dictated by various current events and pop culture icons. Halloween is a major celebration, with the Friday and Saturday nearest October 31 hosting many costume parties.

Kenny and I took on hosting duties once again for the Halloween party this year. Although wearing costumes wasn't required, most of our friends and guests came in a variety of getups to celebrate the holiday. Unfortunately, my store-bought outfit's zipper went kaput on me so I hastily put together an ensemble that epitomize a favorite "Kill Bill" character, Gogo . Needless to say, we had a blast and will do it again next year and every Halloween season for that matter.

Talking about costumes, I've been thinking a lot about a particular one that most of us might not have seen or worn for a long, long time. I'm talking about the Philippine national costumes "Barong Tagalog" for men and the "Baro't Saya" for women. It must have been when I was in high school when I last wore a baro't saya for a folkdance. That was certainly ages ago.

The Barong Tagalog has maintained a contemporary presence in the Philippines and the more formal Terno is also largely seen on social events like weddings and political functions. The baro't saya is pretty much generally worn as a dance costume or during some national-themed events.  The only time I've seen the baro't saya here in the US was at a wedding I attended in LA where a Fil-Am dance group performed during the reception. That was quite a treat and I can't help but wish there are more Filipino cultural events like that here in Chicago.

The USA is indeed an amalgam of several cultures and nationalities. A major city like Chicago is filled with various heritages, backgrounds and religions from all over the world. It has everyone that for someone of ethnicity like me, it's easier to blend in and not stick out so much in a crowd. But then again, except for my distinctly Asian features, I don't appear atypical from any jeans-and-shirt-clad person down the street.

In the cul-de-sac where we live, we have neighbors who I assume to be originally from India. Although I'm used to seeing them in their traditional clothing while going about their daily lives, it still intrigues me to see the women in their colorful saris and the men in their breezy-looking kurtas. They just seem at ease wearing these garments that it made me curious about our own traditional dress and the possibility of wearing it on a regular basis. What do you think it would be like?

Here lies the challenge especially for Filipinas living in foreign countries. Picture yourself going about your usual diurnal activities but dressed in a time-honored baro't saya. Would it be awkward, unviable, or humiliating or would it feel effortless, user-friendly and impressive? Would it give you the sense of national pride or would you feel scrutinized and peculiar?

It might not be a significant concern among women who are raised in cultures where their customary and long-established mode of sartorial is still the mainstream. This is particularly true in some Asian and Middle-Eastern countries. In contrast, except for some minority groups, the Filipinos are predominantly garbed in the Western-influenced fashion and are pretty keen in following the latest trends in style. They are also quite partial to "imported" brand names of clothing and accessories (authentic or faux, who cares?). It won't be unusual to spot a young woman in a Tommy Hilfiger tee at a mall somewhere in the Philippines.

I truly find the idea of wearing the baro't saya even just for a day very thought-provoking and worth probing further. I've always been inquisitive about my neighbors' ability to adapt to their new environment yet still maintain a strong visual representation of their culture. That takes a lot of self-assurance, nationalism and religious conviction, I'd say.

Do I have the same cojones to pull it off? I'd like to test my mettle one of these days. Maybe someday, I'll get to post a photo or video of me sashaying down the aisles of a local Target store, sporting the simple baro't saya paired with my beloved Ugg boots. In the words of the infamous style icon, Paris Hilton, "That's hot!". Snap!

If one can look like a bee, a nun or a witch on Halloween, it shouldn't be that tricky to dress like a good old-fashioned Filipina and pay tribute to Maria Clara, the symbol of the virtues and nobility of the Filipina woman. So, is there anybody out there who'd be plucky and audacious enough to do it with me? We can unofficially call it the "Baro't Saya Day". Maybe I'm being daft and delusional but if this catches on and becomes a global movement, how cool is that?

Horror Tales From a Nurse's Crypt

Over the past few weeks, I toyed around the idea of taking a part time job and working less hours at the hospital. I just have the urge to make some changes in my professional life and I'm even considering an entirely different career path, preferably one that involves writing. The only drawback is that most entry level positions mean a huge pay cut which I can't afford at this time. Before anyone thinks this is going to be a woe-is-me blogpost, I just want to make it clear that I do appreciate the job I currently have. When some people lost theirs (or are on the verge of unemployment) or are still looking for one, I have a stable occupation that pays the bills. Nursing is truly one of the more solid profession out there and there's always going to be an incessant demand for health care workers (nurses, physical therapists, med techs, caregivers, etc) everywhere.

Here in the US and in other countries, the presence of the Filipino workforce is very crucial to the delivery of health services. Without their hard work, the system will be potentially impaired. It's therefore comprehensible that the insensitive and unfounded comment from the TV show "Desperate Housewives" left a bitter taste especially among Filipinos engaged in the health care industry. The unfortunate dictum just didn't reflect the reality of how much these host countries have relied on us to take care of their old, sick and dying. It also reminded me of how unjust things can be to any foreign worker. I'm sure a lot of OFWs out there will heartily agree.

Although the Filipino nurses are becoming more respected and acknowledged, they are far from being exempted or immune from any display of discrimination or racial prejudice. The recent case of the "Sentosa 27" is a crucial illustration of how challenging it is out there for Pinoys who are seeking a better future overseas. Their predicament is not remote to me and to countless others who were once (and probably still are) casualties of such unscrupulous treatment. The ongoing legal wrangling has essentially brought to the forefront something that a huge number of us went through not that long ago.

When I first arrived in the US in 1994, I was a bit anxious but had no apparent reasons to be afraid of anything. Stepping through the sliding doors at the Chicago O'Hare airport was like being transformed from an ingenuous small town girl into an optimistic young woman ready to claim her independence and start a new life. Regrettably, the euphoric mood didn't last long as the fairy tale unfolded into an austere narrative of a bizarre dimension. Without disclosing any incriminating details, let me recount my own version of "Coming to America" (or rather, "Tales From the Crypt").

Feeling relieved that my passage through the US Immigration went without a glitch, I rolled my lone luggage out towards the arrival area and waited until I was approached by a man (a Filipino) who introduced himself as the "agent". After a perfunctory greeting and inquiry about my trip, Mr. Joe* escorted me out towards the parking lot. He informed me that we needed to head over to the nearest Social Security office to apply for my SS number after which he will then introduce me to my employer. Unsuspecting of any anomaly, I got into Mr. Joe's vehicle. Shortly thereafter, I found myself marveling at the wide expressways, tall buildings and impressive skyscrapers. Unabashedly gawking, everything just seemed enormous in my hazy and sleep-deprived state of mind.

I was so engrossed with the newfangled surroundings that I probably looked perplexed when Mr. Joe asked for the cash balance ($2,000.00) that I was instructed to remit upon arrival. The said amount was part of my placement fee of $3,500.00 (not including the miscellaneous charges from visa processing and the airfare). After I've fulfilled my end of the bargain, he then handed over an employment contract that appeared similar to the one I already signed back in the Philippines except that upon closer inspection, I noted that a few things were significantly revised. The name of the nursing home employing me was different from the one indicated in my work petition/visa. In addition, the hourly rate on the document was noticeably lower than what I originally signed up for. Alarm bells were ringing in my ears as I struggled to make sense of the detrimental stipulations jumping at me.

Flummoxed by the blatant changes, I timidly questioned Mr. Joe but only received an elusive response that both nursing homes have the same owner and he basically brushed my concerns off as irrelevant. I also had a disconcerting feeling that he wouldn't accommodate further inquiries and just wanted me to sign the contract on the spot. At that point, I mentally kicked myself for being so foolish in asserting my autonomy by declining a relative's offer to meet me at the airport. Sensing the impatience in Mr. Joe's demeanor, I deliberated on the possibility of not signing the agreement but was overwhelmed by the trepidation of ending up alone and lost in an immensely alien territory. Worse, I was mainly apprehensive about being deported and giving up on the pipe dream that was just within my clasp moments ago. After pondering on the financial sacrifices that my parents went through in supporting my aspirations for a better life, I swallowed the huge lump of fear in my throat and haltingly signed the pact with the devil.

It didn't take long to find out that I signed up for an even worse deal than I bargained for. Although far from living in squalor, I was housed in a 2-bedroom apartment with five other nurses. That made for a very uncomfortable and crowded living arrangement despite being charged more than the actual rent ($650.00). Since we didn't have any credit history to speak of, the employer leased the apartment in our behalf but automatically deducted an unreasonably excessive amount from our paychecks.(Let's do the math: $200.00/month x 6 occupants = $1,200.00 = blood money). Aside from the abysmally low pay rate, I was strong-armed into working a lot of overtime hours(16-hour shifts) but was paid straight time only. It also meant being mostly assigned to a patient population that non-contract nurses would rather not take. I constantly dreaded getting up and going to work, literally feeling nauseated from the anticipation of another grueling and punishing workload.

Toiling under duress and a lot of stress took a toll on my emotional well-being and also affected me physically that I even endured a profusely prolonged menstrual period for 3 weeks which resulted to anemia. It turned out that I didn't have an insurance coverage for the first six months so I was basically without medical care. It was such a dreadful and low point in my life that I seriously considered throwing in the towel. The prospect of going back to the Philippines and reuniting with my family just didn't seem so bleak in comparison to my ordeal.

After much mental wrestling, I ultimately decided to stay and ride the tide. Fueled by my family's encouragement, I prodded on. I developed a supportive friendship with some coworkers and we became each other's morale boosters. On our days off, we made sure to spend the time as far away from work as possible. As I mentioned in a previous post, those were the days when all we wanted to do was to travel and explore. It was our way of temporarily escaping the nightmare and "making a lemonade out of lemons". Figuratively speaking, I sure drank a lot of lemonade.

Although my contract technically expired after two years, I didn't get to tender my resignation from the facility until after four more years later. It was a matter of necessity since I applied for the immigration status and an employer's petition was required in the process. It took a long time due to some circumstances and procrastination on my part. By then, I have already accepted my fate with more stoicism and dare I say, gratitude. After all, there was no gun aimed at my head when I signed on the dotted line. I came and stayed on my own volition.

In retrospect, I wasn't really without any choice. I could have left and gone back to a familiar life in the Philippines. On the other hand, I could have sought legal counsel and collected reparation if successful in holding the agency and employer accountable for their callous practices. I could have also just ran away and eventually find another petitioner who'd be fair and unprejudiced. It's been done before, I'm sure. Despite the options, I made my bed and laid on it. It was thorny and rocky but it was mine.

When I finally received my green card, I wasted no time and looked for a new employment. Ironically, I did benefit from my tenure in the long term care facility. It gave me opportunities to develop my nursing skills and gain experience to be confident enough in applying for a job at a prominent hospital in Chicago. It took me awhile to acknowledge but the hardships undoubtedly made me resilient in my personal life as well. I just have to remember all the adversities I went through and any type of crisis doesn't seem to faze me that much anymore.

Whenever my coworkers and I trade anecdotes on our past nursing home careers, it's almost like swapping war and horror stories. Interestingly enough though, these accounts are also peppered with fond recollections of the people we worked with and the memorable residents under our care. It wasn't really all that bad, I reckon. If given a choice, I'd rather not work in a nursing home again but it's still a good offer on the table rather than not having a job at all.

Those who just recently migrated and found it difficult to get hired can probably attest to that. It might seem fantastic to not have to get up and go to work everyday but after a certain period of lassitude, the sense of monotony and ineptness will creep in. The restlessness will eventually drive an individual to pursue something to focus their energy on unless every cell in their body have become slothful. In a way, it was probably the dread of losing a purpose that motivated me to keep doing my job, albeit under abusive and unpleasant conditions.

Of course I'm not condoning the iniquitous, fraudulent and bigoted working environment that some establishments are propagating. Far from it. I believe I should have gotten a fair deal just like anybody else who's trying to make an honest living. Everyone deserve it wherever they might be ... except in the real world. It's quite a harsh observation coming from me but let me try to justify this assessment.

It cost me a lot of tears and several bouts of disenchantment but in the long run, I figured out that the world is not always an even-steven and fair playing field. As much as we want it to embody all our ideals, it will never be without injustice, corruption, poverty, oppression, war, terrorism, sickness, pollution and all the other things that dehumanize us. It might sound fatalistic but it is what it is.

As discriminated and wronged I might have felt, I also recognize that a lot more people out there are suffering of so much terror and pain than I can ever imagine or experience. I only have to step out of my little cocoon to see that in the grand scheme of things, my misfortune is just a bantam blob, a nanosecond blip on the global radar.

So, do I endorse the actions of the Sentosa nurses? I honestly don't have a clear-cut answer to that. I do applaud them for their tenacity and determination to seek justice. If they do get vindicated and compensated, more power to them. Perhaps they will help pave the way for a more secure and nondiscriminatory working conditions for the nurses and other OFWs. Hopefully, I'll get to see that happen in my lifetime. If I still sound a tad pessimistic, it must be because it's been such a long, long time since I last wore those rose-colored glasses. Even if I want to, I don't think they'll fit me anymore, anyway.

*Not his real name.

Desperate Boo-Boo

I have long deleted the "Desperate Housewives" from our DVR to make room for the fresh shows this fall. In my opinion, the show has already jumped the shark last season anyway. Therefore, I didn't get to view their 3rd season's premiere episode last Sunday and was blissfully unaware of the huge ruckus it caused especially among the Filipino viewers. I first learned about it in a posting in the Friendster Bulletin, urging the public to boycott the show. A petition was also circulated demanding an apology. Of course, I got curious and searched Youtube for the video clip. Note: To view the video clips below, click on Pause on the Radio Blog to stop the music from playing at the same time.

Apparently, it was the brief scene (blink and you'll miss it) where actress Teri Hatcher's character uttered a blasé line which implied the ineptitude and lack of quality of the medical schools in the Philippines. This interpolation was obviously deemed an unequivocal affront to the Filipino medical communities and a racial slur to the Filipinos in general, triggering a diplomatic incident.

The gaffe outraged and provoked the ire of so many Filipinos and Filipino-Americans that it resulted to the ABC network issuing this apology: "The producers of Desperate Housewives and ABC Studios offer our sincere apologies for any offense caused by the brief reference in the season premiere. There was no intent to disparage the integrity of any aspect of the medical community in the Philippines. As leaders in broadcast diversity, we are committed to presenting sensitive and respectful images of all communities featured in our programmes."

From reading the comments in various websites, the throw-away line surely incited a gamut of feedbacks ranging from indifference and mild annoyance to being indignant and livid. Despite the request for forgiveness, a number of Filipino dignitaries and politicians are still demanding for more acts of contrition and rectification. Whether the TV network will be forthcoming or not, the damage has been done. The scope of the repercussions is arguably a subject for more discussions.

In any case, the episode has shed the spotlight on the Philippines once again. In case you've been living under a rock during the summer, the latest Pinoy-related media furor was about the Youtube hit video of the Filipino prisoners from Cebu dancing in sync to a Michael Jackson song. Positive or negative, such attention brings awareness to our country and culture. Just so you know my stance on this delicate matter, let me reiterate through an excerpt from a previous post.

"...It is disheartening that the Filipinos are not being as represented in the media and entertainment business like the other Asian cultures. It was indeed refreshing when one of the contestants from last season's Survivor: Cook Islands, Jenny, was a Filipino-American from Chicago. On the other hand, there was a scene in an episode ("Four Dreams") of Medium that showed a prostitute who spoke Filipino but was supposed to be in Indonesia. What gives? I was baffled and disappointed that the writers didn't even bother to be accurate about this. Perhaps they surmise that our language is obscure and unpopular enough that nobody would know the difference.

Who knows what other shows and movies are out there that are depicting the Filipino language and culture quite liberally and erroneously. At the movie "Jarhead", Jake Gyllenhaal's character mentioned "...studying of phillipino mail order bride catalogue" among one of the suggested techniques for the marine to use in the avoidance of boredom and loneliness (including masturbation, rereading of letters from unfaithful wives and girlfriend, cleaning rifle). Not exactly the best picture to project about Filipinas. Hearing that, I think I must have sunk in my seat in the movie theater, feeling very self-conscious. Maybe I was just being overly sensitive but it was not a great feeling indeed. "

This blunder might become old news soon but I'd still like to know your insights and opinions. I'd encourage you to be candid but also consider that some of us had been guilty of stating a few unfavorable commentaries on other nations and cultures. The only difference is that we don't have the nationwide coverage and global reach of television as a platform for our views. Instead, we have the internet at our disposal. Therefore, I urge you to utilize it wisely and appropriately.

The Memory Reaper

After I posted my previous blog entry "Not-So-Accidental Tourist", I made a rare trip down to our lower ground floor to dig up some of the trinkets I've saved from my earlier journeys. After deftly dodging boxes and luggages from falling on me, I felt triumphant upon finding the plastic container where I stored my souvenir thimbles. As I inspected each one of them, a few memories from those jaunts came to mind and they just made me smile. Those were the days when all my friends and I wanted to do was to explore and get away from the bleak work situation we found ourselves in.

As I glanced around the chaotic basement, I can't help but notice and ruminate at how much "junk" I have accumulated over the years. When I left the Philippines in 1994, I only brought one suitcase with me but when I relocated to another apartment a year later, it took a couple of trips and a hired help to transfer all my belongings. Ever since then, I seem to have amassed more, courtesy of the many needless shopping sprees and bargain hunts. Everytime I moved, it took a lot more time and sweat. Fortunately, I sent some of the "surplus" to my family via balikbayan boxes or there would have been more to lug around.

One thing that also helped was practicing the yearly spring cleaning which prompted me to eliminate objects that were not essential or functional anymore. Living in a two-bedroom apartment, I realized how scarce storage spaces can be. To keep my domicile in order, I adhered to the rule of divesting myself of items that had not been used in the past two or three years. It was quite testing when it came to clothes though. I had a tendency to retain them longer than I should even if they didn't fit me anymore in the off chance that the latest fad diet will work and I can wear them again. The garments eventually found their way into the balikbayan box when they were deemed so out-of-season (to my sisters' benefit and delight, of course). It also became the perfect excuse for further retail therapy, I'd say.

It's amazing how some people can cling on to their material possessions so vigorously. I do understand keeping those articles when there are memories and strong emotions affixed to them. Although I have stopped collecting thimbles, I still keep them around since they are aide-mémoires of those fun-filled excursions with my friends. Nevertheless, I've been to a few houses that are overwhelmingly cluttered with a multitude of knick-knacks that one may think the inhabitants might be pack rats, a slang term that refer to people who collect miscellaneous items and has trouble getting rid of them (a compulsive hoarder). If you've seen the TV show "Clean House", you'd be appalled at how people are so desperately drowning in disarray. I can't envisage living in such anarchy but I know first hand how it can escalate to that level if no one will put the kibosh on it.

When I visited my family for the first time after four years of being away, I had a bit of a shock when I perused through all the assorted array of dusty Nescafe glasses, tattered school books, outdated newspapers/magazines, cob-webbed crib/bassinet and other baby paraphernalia that populated every nook and cranny of my parents' abode. I don't believe my folks to be serial hoarders but their house was obviously besieged with things from the past and was just begging to be purged.

The whole scene perturbed me so much that on the last day of my vacation, I launched an impromptu general house cleaning with my father as an accomplice. It resulted to a huge bonfire at the back yard. My mother and grandmother were clearly mortified and tried to dissuade me from pitching everything out due to a variety of sentimental reasons. I tried to keep my resolve but compromised on a few instances when I gleaned my mother being distraught and teary-eyed. I realized I was being very hard-nosed about it. I admittedly shoved a huge plate of tough love down their throats but they were ultimately pleased and relieved with the outcome. As a result, the house was freed up with more room for things of value and consequence. I guess I gave them a crash course on spring cleaning but they sure learned it well. So far, I have not done any clean-up of that magnitude ever again during my subsequent visits.

During our life time, we gather a lot of memorabilia along the way. A few of these multifarious objects have earned a proud place on the mantel and curio cabinets while some are too precious or private and are better kept hidden or under lock and key. A number of them are pretty mundane and have become part of our daily lives. Some of our keepsake magnets are prominently displayed on the fridge but are also useful in keeping reminders (appointment cards, work schedule, invitations) in place. Kenny regularly utilizes the coffee mugs that he bought during our travels. As for me, I like to wear such tokens just like a couple of my favorite sweatshirts. One was from Disneyworld where Kenny and I got engaged and the other was from Grand Cayman where we spent our honeymoon. Yep, I'm pretty schmaltzy that way.

Anyway, how about you? What mementos have you treasured and kept? What do you usually collect? Feel free to share them and if you have a blog post about it, leave the link in the comment section as well. I'd be happy to check it out.

Neighborhood Watch

It's always delightful having friends over for a visit and last weekend was no exception. My friend Marlica came from Michigan with my godson Rhyss in tow. She also brought along her mother who recently arrived from the Philippines a few weeks ago. Great! I got to play the tourist guide again.

I love Chicago and I'm always proud to show people around the city every chance I get. As much as I appreciate the other places I had been to, I have never really considered relocating anywhere else. Although most Filipinos might opt to live in warmer, balmy and sunny states like Florida and California, there's really no other place I'd rather be. Oddly enough, I do like the variety that the changing seasons bring. One gets to appreciate the changing colors of fall and welcome the birth of spring after the hibernation period of winter.

Despite the limited time, we managed to pack Saturday with a lot of sightseeing. We took our guests to our favorite spot to take a photo with the popular Chicago skyline in the background. Although it was forecasted to be chilly that day, walking along Lake Shore Drive was pleasantly tolerable. When we got to the Grant Park, it was pulsating with merriment from the Celtic Fest that was going on that time. We listened to the bagpipe music playing and watched as men in kilt participated in various highland games.

A few streets were closed for traffic and were lined with booths serving traditional Scottish and Irish fare and beverages. The Celtic Fest was of smaller scale compared to the annual Taste of Chicago but I kinda like it better and wished that there's a Filipino Fest as well. As a matter of fact, in all these years of living in the US, I've never really been to an organized Filipino social event or festival.

The Rizal Center is probably the only venue I know where some Filipino events are held or hosted but I've never been there either. Most likely, the typical places where one might come across and meet other expats would be at the Pinoy restaurants/stores and in communities where there are nursing homes and hospitals nearby. That's pretty much generally everywhere in the country.

Unlike most ethnic groups, the Filipino-Chicagoans don't have a known centralized neighborhood. The Chinese have Chinatown and the Koreans have Albany Park dubbed as Koreatown. Devon Avenue ("Little India") caters to people from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Thailand, Croatia and many others. The Logan Square is home to a diverse population including Latinos (primarily Mexican and Puerto Rican, with some Cuban), African-Americans and a number of ethnicities from Eastern Europe, (mostly Poles). These subgrouped neighborhoods are replicated in other US cities but I still have to come across one that's predominantly Filipino.  

In any case, I'm not sure if I would choose to live in a "Pinoytown". As much as it seems like a patriotic thing to do, I'd be wary to be existing in intimate proximity to folks who might exhibit those known much-maligned traits such as the notorious " crab mentality". I don't think I need to elaborate further on this concept, right?  

Truthfully, that's probably the main reason why most of my friends prefer not to join in any Filipino-American organizations/clubs. It can be more of a nuisance than advantageous when your personal affairs may become everybody's business . After years of living in the western culture, we've come to value our privacy and it is absolutely unacceptable when someone (be it Filipino or not) invades or disrespects it, in any shape of form, whether deliberate or not. I've encountered quite a myriad of blog posts of people disgruntled about other Pinoy's waywardness, their disputes, acrimonious relationships and rancorous comments (read: backstabbing, gossiping) of each other. I just don't think I have the drive to watch my back all the time and to muddle through all that negativity .

Let me end this post with a quote from the astute Malcom X:

"You're not to be so blind with patriotism that you can't face reality. Wrong is wrong, no matter who does it or says it."

Not-So-Accidental Tourist

"I want to travel the wonders of the world". I distinctly remember these precocious words as I always wrote them down in response to the question "What is your ambition in life?" in those "slum books" that my classmates passed around towards the end of a school year in grade school and high school. When most of my friends would reply "doctor", "engineer", "teacher", "nurse", or "CPA", I never wavered. Maybe I just didn't know what I wanted to pursue as a profession (and who really does anyway at that age?). Perhaps I was strongly influenced by the books I've read and the places I saw on TV and in the movies. Whatever it was, I've had the case of "itchy feet" for so long than I can ever recall.

Although I had a relatively blissful childhood, there was this burning desire to explore whatever was outside the perimeter of our lethargic and rural city. Admittedly, my decision to take up Nursing was also motivated by the chance to study and live in a diverse and urban metropolis such as Cagayan de Oro City. It wasn't exactly the biggest exploration ever but it was a start. Despite a very limited allowance and sometimes without my parents' knowledge and permission, I managed to go to places within the vicinity and outlying areas. Typically, travel and taking a vacation is pretty much a luxury and not a priority in a Filipino's life. Except perhaps when venturing out to the neighboring town's fiesta or if visiting some friends and relatives, it's not uncommon or farfetched that a Pinoy might not have ever stepped outside the boundaries of his/her own city or province. There's nothing wrong with that although I wish that they will also get to experience another world outside of what they know. It sure could make your outlook in life broader and enriched. I know it did with me anyway.

When I first arrived in the US, it was almost like I was possessed. Spurred by the sights and the novelty of the fresh environment, I embarked on a whirlwind of excursions and sprees to several key US cities and popular destinations. I was fortunate to be friends with people who had the same elan and fervor as I have. We shared the same pursuit to satisfy our curiosity and sense of adventure. It seemed like we were constantly on field trips. We were such avid tourists so much so that we acquired a sundry of mementos such as coffee mugs, t-shirts, magnets, keychains, thimbles, spoons, postcards, and scores of various trinkets that one ordinarily comes across at souvenir shops anywhere . We reveled in our growing collection of tokens from our travel but we mostly treasured the memories of being there. Browsing through my numerous albums of photos from such trips reminds me of the great times we had together. I must confess that I also enjoy seeing other people's vacation and travel photos in Friendster. I just feel a keen sense of connection with folks who've traveled and have similar experiences like mine. They surely inspire me to explore even more.

   

Although there are still a lot of spots in the US that I want to sightsee, I was more than ready to finally explore Europe. After all, the defining moment of my desire to travel was when I first viewed my Aunt Agnes' photos from her European tour so many years ago. I recall setting my eyes on her image with the Eiffel Tower in the background and I silently pledged to myself, "I will go there someday". Last year, that oath was kept. A few months ago, I made another pilgrimage to Europe and fulfilled my dream to visit Salzburg, renowned from a beloved movie "Sound of Music". I also got to appreciate the beauty of Prague which became a favorite of mine.

As some people probably know from my new profile photos, I recently had a weekend holiday in Canada, particularly the Niagara Falls in Ontario. It wasn't my first visit there but the last time I went was during the winter season so I was indeed keen to view the area differently this time around. Although it was a long drive (more or less 8 hours) to get there, the magnificent and breathtaking sight of the natural and industrial wonder was worth the trip. Not far away from the falls is a commercial hub of hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops and other tourist traps. I guess they're the necessary evil in order for a travel destination to thrive. Overall, it was an enjoyable outing especially since I was with a vivacious group of friends and their families.

After several trips, I am nowhere close to slowing down. In fact, with every place I visit, I hanker for more. There's just so much of the world to explore. If I have unlimited financial resources, I would undoubtedly make travel my main preoccupation in life. As luck would have it, after these oh-so-short holidays, I have to rejoin the ranks of the wage-earning and income-chasing  populace. Thank goodness for mini-getaways or I would have gone out of my mind if I don't get a break from time to time. Of course, I'm already looking forward to the next one. It's just a matter of time (and money, of course).

Princess Bride

A couple of weeks ago, my friend Mariah and I spent half a day browsing though racks and rows of gowns/dresses at a bridal salon. Although we started our search last year, it's been quite sometime since we last looked for dresses so we tackled the task at hand with as much gusto and ferocity as can be expected from two wedding-crazed females. Those who have done this before, it's no easy feat. These gowns can truly weigh a ton with all the heavy fabric and embellishments on them. Mariah tried one after the other like a crusader on a mission. After going through what seemed liked a mountain of tulle, satin, lace and beading, she narrowed the choices down to two. Each one is markedly different from the other and posed a really tough choice. Although Mariah might eventually choose neither one of them, we both thought it would be kinda fun to solicit people's (meaning you, Friendster readers) opinions about them. It would at least give us some sort of idea what to look for in case the search for the perfect dress is not over yet. But then again, she might just heed your advice and pick the one with the highest vote . So how about it, folks! Let's give the bride-to-be a little nudge towards the right direction, shall we?

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B.

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Rice Up!

After almost seven years of usage, we had to throw out our old rice cooker when we discovered a leaking hole at its bottom. Letting it go was a bit bittersweet since it was our first one and has some sentimental value. When Kenny and I started dating, he bought it upon the suggestion of his Taiwanese co-worker after he told him that I was a Filipina. I was quite surprised and impressed by his effort to accommodate my cultural background. He also learned how to cook rice by using the 2:1 ratio (2 cups water to 1 cup rice). Although I don't regularly eat rice, the appliance was also useful in steaming vegetables and crab legs (his fave). When Kenny went out looking for a new cooker last week, he picked one that is multifunctional