peek-a-boo!

Tri's Everyday Activity...

2012-01-30T22:46:00.000+08:00

December 2010

January 2011

December 2011

Creating his own traffic jam :D

Dirty Cake

2012-01-25T23:59:00.000+08:00

My mission this 2012 is to make sure that Tri and I would have extra quality time whenever possible. I've failed on that part miserably over the past three years--which upsets not only him, but more of myself. I promised him I'll be a better mom.

So, to start the year right (actually, the eve of New Year), Tri and I made a messy--but special home made dessert we called "The Dirty Cake". We call it like that because of its appearance.

This is a very simple sweet treat for kids that me and my half sister used to make on special occasions. It is well know as "refrigerated cake", with a much more sophisticated version "Crema De Fruta" which is baked.

Let me share you how we did it:

1) You'll need the following: Graham Crackers, All Purpose Cream, Condensed Milk and Fruit cocktail (fresh fruits are much better).

2) Get a tray or a microwavable container.

3) Place the graham crackers to start as a cake base. (Tip: You may dip the cracker on some milk to soften each bar before placing it on your tray.)

4) Layer about two to three spoons of all purpose cream (or as long as the entire area is covered).

5) Add condensed milk.

Optional: You can also add a layer of slightly grounded graham crackers or similar type of biscuit for texture and extra fun for kids!

6) Repeat steps 3-5 or until you have reached the desired height of your cake. (Me, until there is only 1 inch gap from the edge of the container).

7) Add your fruits. Be creative!

8) Sprinkle some of your graham crumbs on top of the fruits. (I used left over tea biscuits for this, like the one below:) then add another layer of cream and/or condensed milk

Tea Biscuit--Tita Em-ar's gift :)

9) Watch your kid enjoy!

10) Lastly, keep it refrigerated for 1-2 hours before serving.

This is a super fun activity. Do not be afraid to make a little mess around the kitchen or spill some of the cream on the table. It is part of the fun! Tri has been bugging me to make another one for him. Not only that he liked the not too sweet taste of it, but it's a perfect bonding idea.

But it was a bit messy after...really messy!

1 cool point for Mom, though :)

Pooch-ie's Gotta Go!

2012-01-23T22:46:00.000+08:00

I've learned a new word today.

Pooch.


photo from theberry.com

I thought the word only refers to dogs?

Ok, so I may be a little outdated on slang terms despite working on a very American environment of BPO industry. (Is that an American word, by the way?) I was at work browsing through the web, hoping to find something good to read when I stumbled upon Ain't No Mom Jeans. I love the blog. It was authored by two awesome stylish Mamas, Shana and Molly. Right from the moment I finished the latest entry, I knew that I'll be drawn to read the entire site. Yey for lots of free time! :)

Sooo, what really is "pooch" and what does it have to do with ANMJ?

It best describes the protruding post-partum belly ALMOST every mom tries to hide. I don't know it by that term. In my world, I call it flab. My co-workers call it "belly bag" (offensive, right?!). I find the site really informative, specially on one thing that has kept me bothered for the past 4 years--mommy fashion and techniques. And yes, most of what I've read emphasizes on concealing the pooch.

that pooch of mine's gotta go, if not, hidden!

I'm not even half way and I'm already feeling information overload! But it's the most exciting feeling! Ever!

Tomorrow, when I get to work and bump into someone who usually poke and make fun of my belly, I'll nicely say "Get your f**king hand off my pooch!"

Ain't that cute? :D

No?

I think it is.

Well, anyway, I'll be reading more of the blog and squish in more tips in my head for better clothing techniques. Who knows, I may be able to post some pictures if I think the tips work for me!

Who knows...

Hey Mommy, It's Your Birthday!

2012-01-19T21:45:00.000+08:00

Hi everyone! My name is Tri, but I prefer Jumbo. It makes me feel big. Today, I'll be writing for Mommy. She's a little too tired arguing on the phone with some people asking more money for our telephone service. She looks angrier than she was with me whenever I make a mess.

So, anyway, I think I am old enough to take over her blog for a while. Don't you think?

I wanna share with you Mommy's birthday celebration last December 3, 2011. She told me it was a surprise party arranged by her girlfriends. I like her friends. They have a very big heart they can make Mom feel happy. She wasn't the happy type of person, believe me.

Her reaction was priceless! But she said her friends were much surprised because she didn't get surprised??? Oh--no! I'm confused!

Well, anyway my Fabulous Titas made her a personalized sweet treat:

She also got to eat some pasta and chicken which are both spicy by the way, just the way she likes her food. Then, she got some extra dessert a cassava cake--it was one of her fave kakanin. I wonder who told her friends she loves that?

Dad was extra happy because Mom gets to celebrate her birthday more than once. The day before, which was Mom's actual birthdate, I helped Dad make some pasta bowl for her and some cake. Then her officemate Tito Nyok bought her a very delicious cake. While Tito Mark treated her with ice cream! I'm gonna ask her how come I didn't get those? Hmm.. I wonder why?

She said she never really like celebrating her birthday. She doesn't like any type of celebration, to be honest. I can see the awkwardness on her eyes whenever there is a family gathering. But she told Dad that night that her 2011 birthday was different because she felt loved.

She didn't have a birthday wish. Only that she gets to see clean sink and bathroom, but she says that all the time! Her friends have a lot to say though:

Lots of birthday wishes and sweet messages :)

A watch from Tita Myra to remind her to slow things down and don't rush!

On behalf of my busy Mom, I'd like to say Thank you to all her kind hearted friends who never fail to make her happy. It was new for Daddy to always see a hint of a smile on Mom's face. Well, she always have one for me, but not always everyday for Dad. Hehe--grown ups!

That's all for now. Mommy is already screaming for me to brush my teeth! Till my next turn writing :)


I should have my own signature--wait! I don't know how to write my name, yet!

Love,
Tri

*all birthday photos courtesy of Fab Us c/o Tita Feli

It Was Supposed to Be PERFECT!!!

2012-01-15T21:56:00.000+08:00

I've spend about an our on that one Korean store trying to look for the best fitting outfit for my figure! I found the one! That lovely checkered knee-length cowboy inspired polo. I am drooling over it! I tried it on and it was PERFECT!

It WAS!

I told the saleslady, I am gonna get it. I asked if she could give me a "stock" not the display one. She said she can. I paid for it and I was elated since it was on sale! I took it home, my mind racing on possible dates I could wear that seemingly perfect blouse!

And then right before I was able to boast my great sale find to hubby, I found this HOLE at the sleeve part, right behind the shoulder area.

GRRRRRRRR!!!

I trusted the saleslady, since it is the stock version and not the one on display it should have a better looking quality because it was never fitted on a mannequin or worse got worn by countless women for fitting sake! But hey--that saleslady outwitted me and sold me a damaged one for the same price!

Hubby said I can just have it repaired. He said he wouldn't mind bringing it to an alter shop. I refused. I paid for it. I have the right to get what I paid for. I am going back to that store and ask for them to exchange it or refund my money! If both won't work, I promise to shove that dress on that saleslady's face until I can no longer see any part of her head!!!

Oh, great my beautiful temper!


It was something like this, but knee-length

See, even Google could not find a match! Because it was a special dress that was supposed to be THE PERFECT one for me! I soooooo want it bad :(

Fab-erdosed (Too Much Happiness)

2012-01-07T22:16:00.000+08:00

I find it hard to believe that I've been in the company of all-boys for the longest time I know.

Ok! That might be a little bit of an exaggeration. Hah!

I just couldn't believe that the last all-girls time I had was July of 2010! What the hell is wrong with me?! Living with 2 boys (hubby and Tri) plus my youngest brother then working with 7 guys everyday--to others, that might sound sick!

And yes, I admit it. At times I feel bad for myself. At some point, it has taken its toll on me. Don't get me wrong. I still love my boys at home and boys at work, but come on! A girl has gotta have some girls' time without hearing a man's complaints and non-sense comments, right? Now, don't get started with the sexist jokes.

I'm just saying a girl's gotta need her own dose of endorphins.

Do you wanna know where I got mine?

photo courtesy of Fab Us c/o TL Feli

Now, that's what I call endorphins overdosed! Somebody get me to the hospital!!!

"Happiness is time spent with a friend and looking forward to sharing time with them again."
- Lee Wilkinson

Love all my girls :)

A Daughter's Realization

2012-01-07T21:20:00.001+08:00

*image taken from google search

Liberty is always dangerous, but it is the safest thing we have. ~Harry Emerson Fosdick

Liberty is something that is both free and scarce during my childhood. How ironic my Dad was able to implement both. I cannot recall a single matter to which he planned my future. I cannot recall him telling what he wanted me to become. I do not remember him telling me to choose this life I have than the other way.

I do remember him being strict, though. I think I was one lifeless child then. Even if I have the freedom to choose what I want, I do not have the freedom to do most of them. Sounds confusing?

Yeah...parents do tend do be confusing...

I well-practiced my freedom during my college days. I was admitted on one of the schools I was dying to go to. I chose a course I really like, something I know I would have a chance to excel. I'd gotten myself involved on an after-school activity that would help me improve my skills. It felt like things are falling into their places. It was a cloud-nine feeling for me. I was happy I felt like I was beginning the path to my own dream.

But, while I was enjoying the peak of my freedom, one man was sitting alone at home waiting for my call, agonized by the thought I chose not to be with him. My dad never told me he didn't want me to go to that school. He never told me to enroll myself on a different course. He never told me he didn't want me to be a performer like him. He never told me he wanted me home instead!

My dad gave me a string of freedom with the other end securely attached to his hand.

I didn't understand him then. I thought he was just overdoing his "father" job.

But when things started to get messy, it was when I fully understand what he meant. When freedom is abused, it oftentimes leads to wreckage and negligence. The outcome are usually not that pleasant. Better hold on to the freedom we earn because it might save us in the future.

Now, the freedom my dad taught me to keep was the freedom I used to start my family. The freedom that helped me speak for myself and for my loved ones. The freedom I am using as a woman of this society. The freedom that helped me choose to become a mother--a path my Dad never chose for me, but a choice I know he was very proud of.

I will forever love you my dearest Papa.

Just a Thought...

2011-12-29T14:49:00.000+08:00

Whenever I have free time at work, I always make sure to read other blogs, specially the ones that I follow. And one day, I've read two mommy blogs by searching Google, both residing in the US and both have interesting stories to share. But what really amazed me are some of those fashion shoots of their own. They call it their "runway", "dress up", "ladies room show", something like that photo shoot. They detail each of every piece they wear, the prices, type of fabric, best time to wear, etc.

It was fascinating to see those photos. To think that they are moms with two kids and a full time job.

Where do they get all the time to mix up those ideas, plan a week of clothing design, each day with a special theme. That's a lot of hard work! And dedication. It's something that doesn't make me think "OMG, that is sooooooo vain of hers". It's not like that. It was inspiring! Brilliant!

I wonder if I'll have the courage to dress up and snap a photo of myself in front of the ladies' room mirror. :p

Blech!

Maybe not! :)

Watch Out! New Photographer in Town

2011-12-29T02:06:00.001+08:00

One year ago, we received a gift from FIL for Christmas. It was a Sony DSCW310.

I was elated and worried at the same time. Working with the said company for more than four years, I already know how sensitive this type of camera is so we tried to be very very careful when using it. Tri, of course, is just one of those curious tots around, thinking that it is another toy he can use.

Only after couple of months since we got the camera did I let my little man try it. And--whoah! I was astonished. He took good photos than I expected!

He knows how to focus on a subject. He knows which light of direction he should be. And it didn't look like it was taken by a three-year old!

I think I have a photographer in the making. And I am loving it :)

Here are more pics from Tri taken just last week. Enjoy!

What do you think of the shots? Me love it :)

Angry Tri

2011-11-05T21:46:00.002+08:00

Who says only birds can get angry?

taken from google search

Meet my Angry Tri:

"Don't mess with my birds!!!"

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T22:25:00.000+08:00


"You're scared, Mommy, right?" ~Tri

Happy Halloween, everyone!

My New Daily Supplement

2011-10-26T18:19:00.000+08:00

I was never really a yogurt fan (actually any type of dairy product except cheese!) until I started TRYING to be healthy (I hope you notice the emphasis on the word TRYING).

Well, anyway, this is my current supplement of energy for a tiring day at work. I thought this product taste like my own vomit when I first tried it ages ago! But I was wrong! I LIKE it! Super! Especially this flavor, mixed fruit juice. Tri on the other hand thought it was too sour. He'll stick with his usual Nestle apple and raspberry combo (which is also very very good!)

Oooh! Tri and Mommy are craving for another batch now! :) Yummm yummm

Do I Want Another Man?

2011-10-26T09:56:00.003+08:00

I guess I wasn't really ready for a new guy to come around...I thought I was. I thought I was strong. I thought I wanted it to happen...

Don't judge me yet. Please continue to read my story...

*image taken from google search

Five years ago, I realized I was madly in love with this guy. He wasn't the exact man of my dreams, but, hey! This guy actually acts like my Dad. I know he'll take care of me. And he did so very well. Then came 2008, I fell in love with a young boy. When I first saw him, I told myself "He is definitely my new world. I'll do everything to make him happy".

I am living my life now, satisfy with the thought that I have this strong feelings for two awesome men. I know that whatever happens, I have both of them. The first man continue to love me despite the fact that my time is no longer all for him. He learned to share it with the younger one and had treated him fairly. The second guy was different, though. He wants full attention. He needs every minute from me. I tried to talk to him everyday, even call him while I'm at work just to check if he's doing fine. If that wasn't enough, he'll ask for some gift every single day. And I, being this weak person when it comes to love, obeyed dutifully.

*image taken from google search

Three years after, a wild dream came to my first man. Astonishingly, he said "I dreamed you loved a new boy. And I was happy. Very happy"

Like a wild thunder in the sky, pictures of happy moments started flashing right before my eyes. And this time, the thought of adding another one in my life doesn't seem so fitting at all...

Okay...so I wasn't really that ready to have baby no.2, but my first man--hubby--was so happy with the thought that his dream felt so real, seeing an addition to my 2nd man--Tri. He said baby no.2 smiled at him and that he cradled him. He said he was the cutest angel he ever saw. But then, he continued "But he was born with asthma. But he's strong..."

All these years hubby and I are together, we've seen Tri playing with a baby brother. We will call him Juaquin, deriving his name from my Dad. We want to have Juaquin as soon as Tri turns 5 or 7 (also as advised by my OB since I was on a high risk pregnancy sitch with Tri and had emergency CS). But, our current setup ate all my dreams.

*image taken from google search

I'm not yet ready to get pregnant--physically, emotionally and financially. I want to have at least two of the three prepared before planning for Juaquin. I thought I was strong. I thought I can make my day dreams come to life. And I realized now, I was faking myself whenever my friends would tease me "Oooh, you're blooming. Preparing for another baby?" and I would reply "How I wish I am pregnant today!" But the truth is, I am scared.

I am so scared to fail.

I am such a hypocrite.

Isn't it depressing when something or someone you really wanna have is just about an inch away from your finger tips? Then stupidly, you fell and can't keep yourself up to reach for it again? How heartbreaking...

I guess, I can't really have all the men I want--and hubby agreed. He said I can't have all three of them. Not now. But someday, we will all be together--when all three of us are on the same wave length.

For now, just seeing this photo makes me think: "No need to rush. Baby no.2 and Mommy will both be ready when the right time comes."

My first and second man--Hubby and Tri--with their greasy lips after eating pancit canton :)

If I Die Young...

2011-10-19T22:37:00.000+08:00

Whether this is a statement or a question, I still haven't--and I am pretty sure--I won't be able to figure out what would really be the outcome. I have a lot of questions in mind. Questions I am uncertain of. Will people miss me? Will people say good words about me? Will people learn from me or from my mistakes? Will I make an impact?

I wonder if my late father, who passed away at a what I consider young age of 53, ever thought of this:

Papa, it really was funny, now you're gone, I started listening. I will forever miss you.

The Band Perry, thank you for touching my heart with your song.

Book and Movie Review: Twilight

2011-10-12T21:37:00.001+08:00

When I first saw the trailer of this film few years back, I told myself that it was another-teenage-type-of-movie. Very typical. A shy, unpopular girl fell in love with this uber handsome, arrogant and rich guy. They hate each other at first then totally got struck by a cherubim. Then there comes the bestfriend who is secretly inlove with the girl but the girl never paid attention. I wasn't a big fan of mushy movies. Romance isn't my comfort zone. I don't like it because the plots are usually predictable.

Then one 4th of July, I was asked to render a what we call in BPO industry "OT Off" (meaning I am obliged to come to work even if it is my rest day). Files and calls are not that much during that time of the year. Don't have that much work. So, to avoid getting bored and sleepy, I rummaged through my desktop folders and found a soft copy of Twilight.

BOOK.

The cover of the book intrigued me. What's with the apple? What does it signify?

So for the entire nine hours of that said shift, I found myself reading page after page, chapter after chapter of the first book by Stephenie Meyer.

My judgement:

- I like books that are written in first person point of view. Felt like I was really the character. It drew me closer to the story and the emotions seem so real.

- Dialogues are so natural. It makes reading smoother (if that statement makes sense!)

- I never got bored reading a paragraph or a page worth of description of just one place! She (S.Meyer) used simple ways to describe a location and let her readers create the picture on their own heads.

- Surprised to see a piece of story based on my roots. (Vampire story based on a Filipino myth).

Rooms for improvement:

- Sometimes, reading the cheesy lines, makes me feel SOOO CHEEEEESY! Given the chance, I would scratch some of the dialogues to avoid being corny.

- Where's the action? Apparently, the first book does not give readers that much action. The ballet studio part could have been a bigger fight between Edward and James.

All in all I'd give the book 8 out of 10 (10 being the highest). Yes. it did entertain me and my supposed-to-be-boring shift. It made me feel the "butterfly-in-my-stomach" again, something that I once trashed, hehe! It was a nice read. Gave me the chance to go back my teenage years.

MOVIE

For every movie made inspired by a book, there is always this notion that the movie version would suck. I braved myself and ask hubby to get me a copy of the film.

And my opinion:

- Astonishingly, the movie was almost as loyal to its original form as it is. Of course, there are some parts of the story that are "misplaced" so that it could be contained in a one and a half hour to two hours of playing. But they are still well executed.

- The cinematography matches the tone of the story.

- The actors who played Bella (Kristen Stewart) and Charlie (Billy Burke) gives its viewers the awkward feeling of a deafening silence between a father and daughter. Kudos to both! :)

Improvement?

- Continuity. I caught some scenes that are obviously an error from the editors. (Please browse through IMDB page for this film).

- Underacting (well, not all actors, though).

- Exposure of other characters. Not everyone was given the chance to shine, specially those characters that played a great role on the book.

For the movie, I give it a 7 out of 10. Lets give the movie a chance to improve. :)

Yeah, yeah. I did watch a romantic film and watched it with hubby. Even watched it four times!

Will continue with the other two books and movies next time :)

I Need To Go To Rehab

2011-09-28T20:59:00.000+08:00

Because I am so addicted to the smell (even just the sight) of Tri's underarms!!

LOL!

No kidding! Any mother would agree we all have this weird obsession about our child's body part--any part!

Right, mommies? :P

Cars 2 (Aug 30, 2011)

2011-09-20T00:34:00.000+08:00

This was a really planned day. About a month before the movie's release here in the Philippines, hubby and I have talked about bringing Tri and Jao to watch Cars 2. Well, of course, some of you may be a bit familiar with Tri's obsession with Cars.

Well planned as things may be, there will always be something to ruin it. My budget is running a little short and the following pay day will take more than 14 days. Also, hubby's grandpa just past away and he is still paying his respect. It was only about a week then and I thought that he wasn't ready yet to move on and do something else--plus the pressure of having to entertain his Dad who just came home from Qatar made it worse.

Luckily, when hubby informed his dad that Tri would want to see the film, he gave us *ka-ching! ka-ching!*.

And off we go to the nearest mall, hoping to catch the best time of viewing.

Tri was so excited he wanted to go inside the theater right away!

He spotted Filmore and got awed for a while:

He fell asleep at about the end of the movie but woke up as soon as we got out of the mall. He was ecstatic! He kept on telling me about the race scene and the different characters he saw. When he finally stopped, I asked him:

Me: Sweetie, did you like Cars 2?

Tri : Yes, mommy. Mcqueen is soooo funny!

Now, that's a good way to review it, Tri!

Well, he wasn't contented at all. He asked his dad for a personal copy of the movie :)

No way!

2011-09-19T23:57:00.001+08:00

Oh my! My last post was in June?! I can't believe how much I've neglected my blog...

And 2 months after, I wish to post a very long entry and it is all about hate!

Uh-uhm...never mind.

Let's get positivity first in the bloodstream. I'm sure it will come :)

I'm Just Sayin' it

2011-09-19T23:23:00.000+08:00

Tri: "My mom's way hotter than yours!"

The Best Version Ever! :)

2011-06-01T21:32:00.000+08:00

Tri loves this video so much! The moment he heard the song, he started laughing--soooo adorable! :)

The Plastic Spoon

2011-05-25T22:22:00.000+08:00

*taken from google image search

I have been using disposable spoon and fork everyday. I have been seeing them left and right of my work station. Sometimes, I keep them. Sometimes, I throw them right away. But one day, with no particular reason, I found myself staring at one of them in my hand. I realized, I got it from a to-go meal the day before and kept it so I can use it for mixing my instant coffee. After that, I used it to help myself with a slice of watermelon.

I told myself "I've used this more than once. When am I gonna get a new one? Should I throw this away?"

I chose not to throw it.

No. I ain't a big earth-saver fan. I am not an environmentalist.

But I value things I've used.

Sharing this simple experience to everyone who's felt uncredited.

Yup, like me.

Not everyone has the same wavelength of thinking. Most of the time, an inconsiderate man would choose a to-go meal for lunch and eat it on his table. Once done with his meal, he'd toss the entire package on the bin--not realizing he still has a slice of cake waiting to be eaten. Since, he'd been too much overwhelm finishing his meal, he didn't realize he needed at least one of those disposable spoon. But it was already too late.He will have to choose between eating it on his own hand or saving it until he gets home and get a real utensil. A man drenched in his own pride, will choose the first, thinking that getting the already disposed plastic spoon is such a bad idea.

Now, go figure how it all work on a BPO industry.

It sucks! Big time!

Tri's First Night Out @ Buzz Point

2011-04-27T23:24:00.000+08:00

I can already hear the boo's and disappointment from other parents. Yeah. Who the hell was that parent who brought her kid out on a Friday night?

Yes--that was me.

But, this isn't just a night out. This is my team's dinner date. The first time for hubby to meet my co-workers and for others to see my baby boy. What's wrong with bringing Tri to a dinner?

Besides, this is a once in a blue moon event.

Tri and Daddy Fred (a distant relative and--also my team mate--from my paternal side). His wife, Tita Vangie, co-owns Buzz Point. This is a lolo-apo bonding for the 1st time :)

See, he didn't have trouble socializing:

Tri: "I'm reserved for tonight"

He even showcased his talent in dancing:

And boy--did he love the attention! He thought he was the star of the night!

with Tito Chad taking his pictures.

The team's supposed to be dinner and meeting end up like a kiddie party. By 10:30pm, he started his usual mom-I'm-sleepy-routine. There goes the tantrums and non-sense babbling. He literally dragged his Daddy out of the private room and headed towards the parking area. He even went back to make sure I was following him. It was sad I was not able to talk with Yasmin. Hubby was sad he didn't get a chance to know Heño more. Too bad, he didn't get a chance to laugh at Chad's jokes...

But there's always a next time. Hopefully we could get a much better time to bring Tri somewhere with the team.

Inside the cab on our way home, Tri fell asleep in the middle of his stories. He was trying to tell me about the car that hang on BuzzPoint's wall. He said he loved it and he didn't have one like that. Daddy Fred and Tita Vangie promised to get him one for his birthday.

The following morning, while I was preparing for work, Tri woke up and hurriedly asked: "Mom, where's Daddy Fred?"

Awww...the boy could feel the what they call "lukso ng dugo".

Promise me...

2011-04-06T22:16:00.000+08:00

I remember reading a quote from our community forum at work which says "the only constant thing in life is change". I really do not get this at first and I don't believe it--until I felt that everybody started leaving me behind.

Sure. I am not the best friend type. I don't get along with a lot of people. I don't hang out a lot. I have a boring, senseless, predictable life. But I know myself too well. I may be too "choosy" with my friends, but I know that I am good with my few chosen pals--very good, to be honest. I've even tried trading my motherhood with them. That's how good I am with them. It even came to a point that hubby had to let me choose between my friends and my life as a mother and wife.

But I cannot.

Because, my heart is torn in two. Half of it goes to my dearest pals and half of it warmly embraces my family.

It was only today that things finally sink in. I was riding a bus on my way home. I had couple of flashbacks, as if I was watching a movie on a projector. Different faces appeared. I saw my childhood buddy, Carmel. She was the closest friend I got. We go to school together, we sit right next to each other at class, we walk home together. We even extend our days by helping each other out on our homework. We'll have dinner together. We even call each other before going to bed and gossip a little. This was a daily routine, a bond that made us inseparable.

But the bond we had suddenly broke when we both entered college and met different people. She met her first boyfriend and I was left behind. I was left behind during the worst status of my teenage life. Just about the same time when my Dad passed away.

My college friends somehow managed to divert my attention (plus 3 part time jobs). But when I thought that the world could eat me and my family alive, I decided to change path, left school and focus myself working. During that time, I was so driven to earn, I've completely turned my back on my hometown.

Just about the same time my mother left us for another guy.

I felt like I was the one abandoned.

That point didn't get me down. Why would I let that thought bother me?

I worked even harder. Tried my best to be a mom, a wife and a provider. It is what I call was my peak. My boss liked me. I work harder. I would impress them. He would actually entrust my entire team to me. He would call me in the office, give me orders work related or not and will send his sincerest "thank you". we would hang out and talk about work and how things are going. We would gossip and laugh at unexpected things. He was so brotherly even my personal problems he tried to manage for me.

Then, one day he sent a raging email addressed to no specific employee but is obviously pertaining to me. It was sent to everybody stating how he could no longer trust anyone and to stop using his work related accounts for useless deeds. From then, we never spoke like before. I felt the huge wall between us. Just about the same time my dearest Josh left the team It was devastating. It is also when the other half of our trio is too focused on her first BF.

I had to face the next days alone.

I've been here, right? I thought I've asked myself at least 10 times everyday. I know that I would get used to it. Everybody's leaving. That is normal. Everyone's got their own life to deal with. They have their own dreams to reach--which are by the way eating them alive today!

So why am I too agitated? I really am not sure. Maybe because ALMOST everyone who's left me chose a life that is worse than the one they had when we were still getting along. They are having difficulty dealing with their jobs, with their personal and social life.

Is that the constant change the quote is talking about? I do not know.

I just know one thing. When everybody's changing their paths, when I thought everyone has deserted me, when I thought I was left behind--one person hasn't change his position a bit. He's been there standing behind me ready to catch me anytime I am ready to fall...

Now, it is my turn to be the one to watch your back and make sure you won't give up.

Just promise me...

Let Me Explain!

2011-02-01T00:23:00.000+08:00

I know I haven't blog in a while.

Fine. I haven't blog for so long... That's because I am too busy juggling my life as a mother, a small time business woman, a wife, a regular employee and a much more health conscious person (I am not forcing anyone to believe on the last part :P).

Well, anyway, for the last two months Tri had shown incredible milestones. His language skills specifically improved a lot. Many people commented before that he will have difficulty talking because they can only hear him mumbling things or saying "uhms" and "blah blah".

They got it wrong.

Tri speaks better English than a 5 year old kid does. He even sound better than an average Filipino is when speaking our second language. Forming a complete sentence is still a bit hard for him but he's getting there.

One night, hubby told me that Tri hit another kid. So I confronted him:

Me: Baby, Daddy told me you punched Jeeven (hubby's 2 year old cousin)? Is that true? Why did you do that?

Tri: Noooooo!!! My-my (mommy), Byby (Jeeven) pushed.

(he then touched his chest)

Pushed...

Ouch here!

Me: Is that so?

Tri: uhm. Byby kakam plants and fuwawers (Jeeven wanted me to eat leaves and flowers).

Hubby confirmed the story and I realized Tri was indeed telling the real story. Of course, that is not an excuse for his bad behavior. But I still am happy he learns how to relay information on his own.

Don't get me wrong. I do not support his bad acts.

I'll let him learn his lesson for hurting a kid. Always remember moms that language can be learned eventually, but good attitude starts from us parents.

Kung Hei Fat Choi

2011-01-31T23:43:00.000+08:00

Happy Chinese New Year everyone! :)

Guess Who's Back?????

2010-11-03T22:33:00.000+08:00

Hallelujah...hallelujah...hallelujaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh!!!!!

Can you hear the choir in the background? How about the orchestra?

No?

Come on and see!

I can see my followers again! After so many months...

Now, listen to the chorus as they sing

*image from Google search

"Oaaaaaahhhhhhhhh....."

So nice to see you guys, back! Told yah, I didn't delete ya'll!!!!

Art of Diversion

2010-11-01T15:00:00.000+08:00

I had a hard time thinking of a diversion. A diversion to get cars out of my son's head. I had to buy a couple more of Disney movies--The Incredibles, Lion King 1 and 2 and Monsters Inc.. Hubby borrowed some more from his cousin like A Bug's Life, Ratatouille and a non-Disney Madagascar. He liked them, but not as much as he likes Cars.

This is my son's rendition of an angry monster--1 day of no Cars DVD

Well, anyway, one week ago, I thought of reviving Tri's interest on art (more of my interest, really). I just wanna see if he really has my Dad's blood, you know (yeah, genetically, he has my Dad's blood), I wanna see if he's got the artist's blood.

I've managed to keep a set of coloring materials from my FIL's gifts a few months back. Tri received a Disney artist set which consists of crayons, oil pastels, color pencils, felt pens, water color etc. He loved just the sight of it. He was so excited.

He have tried crayons and felt pens before and I know that that was already boring for him.

"Mom, I am bored with colors..."

So, I tried upgrading him to water color.

First attempt:

Painting #1:

"Fishy, fishy..."

I wanted interpretation so I asked Tri right after he's done with #1,

Me: Baby, that's cool, what are they?
Tri: Fish!
Paused then pointed the black streak on the right hand side;
Tri: and shark.

Painting #2


"Tadaaaaa!"

Apparently, he doesn't have an interpretation for Painting #2, but he seemed real enthusiastic while doing it. Maybe it was his way of saying he's happy...or something.

He still couldn't get a week of not watching his favorite movie, but at least it's not everyday anymore. The guilt of being the only person who contributed on his addiction suddenly vanished...

I am glad I knew a little bit of art. For me it's not only a diversion that I've created, but more of a therapy. :)

Guilty momma, signing out...

Tri's Second Birthday Celebration at (Planet) Morong

2010-09-15T22:28:00.000+08:00

When: May 31, 2010
Where: Jose's Residence, Morong Rizal

It was fun having to plan for another trip to go back to my hometown. It was even better having my hubby and Tri drop by the office and my half sister Lyn pick us up so we can all go home to our precious town--the town where I've spent two decades of my life.

Well, anyway...it was an exhausting plan. As always, Jan got to make up some plans to screw my day saying he had to cancel the trip because Tri was having a bad tummy and all that. He does not like the thought of him sleeping without his thick mattress. He relies so much on our dear bed. But my perseverance (and yeah--annoying text messages) made him stop arguing. By 12:30pm, they arrived at my workplace both of them wearing their brown polo shirts and some khaki pants and shaved head. Oh--they look adorable!

My sister arrived about an hour late. I really cannot count on her for punctuality. But I still love her!

Tri liked the trip all in all. He played with his cousin Aien right after unpacking.

cousin Aien

Tita Lyn's gift was the large all choco cake from Goldilocks:

It was just a normal, pay-a-visit day for all of us. My brother and I chat most of the time, catching the latest gossip about the office. My favorite brother, Jao (our youngest) arrived from Sunday church service went straight to play with my son. I love seeing my two favorite boys together.

We also experienced the first rain after the excruciating Summer of 2010. Oh! I was called K.J. because I would not let my son bathe in the rain. My brother said I had my "papa-mode" on (which means that I am ~~losing it~~ being so much like our dad, too many precautions). In contrary, I like being compared to my dad.

Well, I let Tri bathe on a huge basin which he used as a mini pool with all his toy cars with him:

he looks sooooo happy!

We've spent 2 days and 3 nights there. We had so much food, so much laughter, so much fun, it's a good thing my brother captured all moments on his video cam.I can't wait to plan our next trip home. I would very much want Tri to grow up on the same neighborhood. I want Tri to be real familiar with my family. I want him to discover what a slow-paced life is and see the beauty of it. I want him to know that if all else fail, Morong will be a town he can go home to.

Tri Is Obsessed!

2010-09-02T20:09:00.000+08:00

Tri is obsessed! I can't believe I've done this to him...

It all started with this...

Then the books...

Then these:

And these:

And a lot more! (One big toy box full of cars to be exact...)

Now, it's the Cars fever!

OH MY!!! I sure thank he's just 2 years old and not a grown up kid asking for 'em. I wouldn't know which bank to rob to get all those fancy wheels!!!!

Where The Hell Are My Followers?!

2010-09-01T22:41:00.000+08:00

Not sure when it all started...but what the F?! Where are my followers????

I swear to God above I didn't delete you guys...

Ugh...

Frustrating...

I've been Googling for few hours now. Found some troubleshooting steps but still not working okay.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

And I swear, double cross on my heart, hope to die, liars go to hell, spit on spit--I did not delete you, guys.

The Confessions of a Full-time Working Mom

2010-08-29T17:17:00.000+08:00

A lot of people have been asking me why I would not let my hubby work and me stay in the house to take care of our little one. I’ve given a pretty much obvious scripted answer “This is not a good time for me to quit. When Tri turns 5, I’ll stop working and focus on his first official school year.” Although it wasn’t a direct answer at all, some of my officemates would eventually stop asking more questions. But some–to my great annoyance–would continue with their interrogation (as if me working is such a big crime!). Like, when would I allow hubby to go back to work so that there’s two of us earning money? or why not let him work abroad? or let him apply on our very own workplace?

I found all those questions absurd.

Obviously, world for parents like me and world for non-parents like them have a very thick, gigantic wall that separates our cultures, beliefs and point of views–basically totally different ways of lives. I came to understand that and I respect their views. But, one thing I cannot fathom is why a mom and wife like me working, is like…taboo to them! Let’s blame it on the Pinoy ways of being conservative (can I add “too much” before the word conservative?).

So for you guys, who have not reached the peak of being human (became a parent, in a more polite way), sorry. But I am honestly not good with verbal explanations specially if I need to let my emotions out. So, I’ve made a list for you that hopefully answers all your questions.

BTW, I am gonna give you a warning–this is based from my real emotions so, pardon me if some statements sounds harsh to you.

So, why am I still working? Well,

1st, I have a big TRUST issue. On everyone. I only trust two guys. (three, before, but since my Dad died, I only got two left). I trust myself and the other one’s for sure not you, not anyone I know. Not even hubby. Well–ok, I know that’s gotta offend him or anyone reading this. But there are just some things that I cannot depend on him, like work for example. Some guys just dont know what work ethics are. Some guys just wanna be boss all the time that they do not understand that everybody gets a position and a title by working hard on it. Some guys just dont know how to control their temper or know their limits. Some mix professional and personal life which often leads to wreckage.

Been there.

It was awful.

2nd, I started to believe that I should strike while the iron is still hot. For someone like me–an undergraduate girl who came from a struggling family–having a job that I have right now is like seeing a comet in the dark night sky. Something I shouldn’t miss. Something that could only happen in after who-knows-how many years. When I entered the BPO industry, I’ve always know that this business isn’t that stable and some time in the future, might close and I will lose whatever I have today. Still, I told myself that as long as outsourcing works, I have work to do. And as long as they dont fire me, I’ll hold on to my job as if I am holding my son’s hand.

Awwwww…

Well, I also have personal grudge to everyone who’s made fun of me when I was younger, like my classmates way back in grade school. Who doesn’t hate mean girls? Who doesn’t hate coming home from school crying with a broken eyeglasses or school uniform that looked like wall grafiti? I hate those years. I hate it because I cannot top them. Because our family does not have enough money back then to slap on my teachers’ faces so they can treat me like a princess. We didn’t have money. I only have a Dad who’s as diplomtic as a president or an ambassador negotiating with other parents. All the pain I endured during my younger years paid off. I am an undergrad. I didn’t pass any bar exam, no license, no nothing–just me and my guts–well, hey, I am earning twice or even three times than those mean girls are getting now! Let’s slap each other with our payslips! Yeay me! Ego–count that as my third.

4th. Practicality. The person who’s got a much more stable job, be the one to bring home the bacon. And we’re talking about huge chunks of bacon here :p

No nanny. Count that as my fifth. My son grows up with either me or hubby taking care of him. End of discussion.

Last, but not the least, I am an independent woman. I can do what a man can, even do much better than them. Not because I am a girl doesn’t mean that I dont have the right to work. History had that changed centuries ago. Women are now allowed to do what they wanna do. Women–specially wives–do not need to be stuck at home and rot taking care of the kids while husbands are out there socializing with other people. Every woman has the right to choose how to make a living and no matter what she chooses sure only means good for herself or her family. No working mom like me, chooses to work to get rid of the responsibility at home. Work outside the house is different from the work mothers and wives perform inside the house.

Well, I guess not everybody could understand this. Not everyone was born to become a wife and a mother.

Confessions of a Full-time working mom

Tri's Birthday Celebration at Maxx's

2010-08-12T22:29:00.000+08:00

When: May 24, 2010
Location: Maxx's Restaurant, SM North EDSA

So I have to make up to my two boys for watching a movie and going out with my girl friends on the same exact date as my son's second birthday. Lunch with my two boys was a perfect plan. It should have been like that. It should have been just me, hubby and baby. But since, this is me being nice to hubby, our family lunch ended with some extras.

Well, well...everybody knows I am not really that good in socializing, or keeping things casual with other people. Other people--I can tolerate. But having to include SILs is not my kind of celebration.

Fine, call me anti-social, but I just really hate family reunions. Specially if the guys from the "other side of the wall" are concerned. Everybody knows they are my least priority, perhaps even being excluded from my list. But I have to be nice and casual as hubby said. Just be nice and get this thing over with.

Remembering not to spoil the real reason for having this lunch, I focused myself on the food :D

Maxx's famous fried chicken legs and sauté d veggie

hubby's all time fave lumpia

and

pancit canton

The food was great (minus the annoying guests and comments over the table). All in all, I think Tri enjoyed having that lunch. If my son likes it, I like it too.

Tri in his mall car

SILs and hubby finished it off with some "kodak moments" while I made my escape by taking my boy for a stroll away from that place. I hate to ruin the celebration, but having the extras kills me--on the spot!

Here Comes The Bride and Amici Day!

2010-08-02T12:05:00.000+08:00

May 23, 2010

This date, my son turned 2 and it felt like I was reborn. Did I ever mention me having no social life? Or was I too busy not to ever mind that I do not have a normal way of life? I cannot remember when was the last time I went out with my girl friends. Cannot remember when was the last time I felt like a 16 year-old girl. Did I ever reach 16? Or did my calendar skip that year and end up at age 23 right away?

Glad I agreed with my friend Divi to schedule a girl's lunch out.

Right after my Sunday shift, (ok, right before I finish my Sunday shift...ugh!), Anna (a.k.a Jelly) and I hurried down to SM Megamall to meet Divi and Myra to catch the lunch time show of the movie Here Comes The Bride

This was a funny as hell Filipino movie! (my very first Tagalog movie I watched in a theater). It was our good friend Divi who insisted we should watch this. What a stress reliever! :p Happy I agreed. The cast ensemble was unbelievable. I will not deny that I had a great time watching this! A plus for this movie because I recognize some of the shots on my very own home town (or somewhere near it).

I originally plan to escape right after the movie, feeling a little guilty that I am having a good time while I should be at home celebrating with my son. But I ended up walking in an unfamiliar area on that mall, staring at the stores like a tourist, then agreeing to eat at an Italian resto called Amici.

Here's what we ordered:

gelato, red spaghetting with clams and shirmps, fried mozzarella and pizza with white sauce, mushrooms and bacon...hmmm! yummy...

Myra and Divi

metal mouth buddies, me and jelly :p

We agreed to do this girl's day out some other time.

Hmmm..I have a few options in my mind.

Never thought I'd say this, but I gotta love doing things I don't normally do--normal things a girl my age should do :)

A Family Portrait

2010-06-29T15:37:00.000+08:00

One fine day, Tri and I decided to play around and practice drawing using his new set of color pens that I bought few weeks ago. We experimented on different colors to use, different shapes and different canvass and ended up doing this...

...on dad's tummy.

and this:

..yes, on his foot.

Fun, isn't it? :p

Bad, Bad, Bad Mom (created May 21, 2010

2010-06-29T14:54:00.000+08:00

I received this email from a co-worker this morning and I felt much worse...

A man came home from work late, tired and irritated, to find his 5-year old son waiting for him at the door.

SON: 'Daddy, may I ask you a question?'

DAD: 'Yeah sure, what it is?' replied the man.

SON: 'Daddy, how much do you make an hour?'

DAD: 'That's none of your business. Why do you ask such a thing?' the man said angrily.

SON: 'I just want to know. Please tell me, how much do you make an hour?'

DAD: 'If you must know, I make $20 an hour.'

SON: 'Oh,' the little boy replied, with his head down.

SON: "Daddy, may I please borrow $5?"

The father was furious, 'If the only reason you asked that is so you can borrow some money to buy a silly toy or some other nonsense, then you march yourself straight to

your room and go to bed. Think about why you are being so selfish. I don't work hard everyday for such childish frivolities.'

The little boy quietly went to his room and shut the door.. The man sat down and started to get even angrier about the little boy's questions.

How dare he ask such questions only to get some money?

After about an hour or so, the man had calmed down, and started to think:

Maybe there was something he really needed to buy with that $5 and he really didn't ask for money very often. The man went to the door of

the little boy's room and opened the door.

'Are you asleep, son?' He asked. 'No Daddy, I'm awake,' replied the boy. I've been thinking, maybe I was too hard on you earlier' said the

man. 'It's been a long day and

I took out my aggravation on you. Here's the $5 you asked for.' The little boy sat straight up, smiling. 'Oh, thank you Daddy!' he yelled.

Then, reaching under his pillow he pulled out some crumpled up bills. The man saw that the boy already had money, started to get angry

again. The little boy slowly counted out his money, and then looked up at his Father.'Why do you want more money if you already have

some?' the Father grumbled.'Because I didn't have enough, but now I do,' the little boy replied.

'Daddy, I have $20 now. Can I buy an hour of your time? Please come home early tomorrow. I would like to have dinner with you.'

The Father was crushed. He put his arms around his little son, and He begged for his forgiveness.

It's just a short reminder to all of you working so hard in life. We should not let time slip through our fingers without having spent some time with those who really matter to

us, those close to our hearts. Do remember to share that $20 worth of your time with someone you love. If we die tomorrow, the company that we are working for could

easily replace us in a matter of hours. But the family & friends we leave behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives.

Thank you...Just think about it....

Now I am thinking.

I arrived last night from work exhausted and not feeling good. I have been suffering from bad colds and headache the entire day. My son had his asthma attack last Sunday and is trying to get well the past few days. My partner have been complaining about his tummy. He said that he cannot eat well and move well because of his diarrhea and him throwing up several times. I really hate it when someone at home is sick and now I hate it that all three of us are suffering! I don't know what to do! I don't know who to call! I don't know where to go! I am so stressed out!

Jan kept on groaning and lying like a fetus. I hate looking at him like that! I hate hearing the groans and all! When I felt like I am ready to burst I just said: "Stop exaggerating! If it is that painful, call your cousins and ask them to bring you to the hospital! I don't know what to do with you, I am so stressed out!" and I got ready to sleep.

This morning, Tri woke me up and ask for his milk. My son is already hyper, I hope and pray that he'll get well before his birthday (which is on Sunday, by the way!). My hubby is still sleeping so I asked Tri to wake his daddy up. He said he's still feeling bad and wanted me to stay at home instead of going to work.

With all my might, I refused. I can't afford to be absent. I cannot leave the opening shift to my team mate who does not know how I do my reports and files, someone who doesn't have access to important emails and stuff like that. No. I cannot not go!

So, even if I feel like my head is ready to explode, I still got myself ready to work. But before I leave, I said my biggest sorry.

When I reached work, I still feel bad. But it's a little different now after reading this short story. I feel much worse leaving my two, precious guys at home. I never felt so bad my entire life...

Achtung!

2010-06-29T14:45:00.000+08:00

WARNING!

The following entries you will see...

are back-posts (hehe! Sorry it took me so long!)

Photo Meme...

2010-05-14T22:45:00.000+08:00

Jenny, forgive me. I know that it has been two weeks or so when you tagged me on this blog activity. I'm sorry that it took me this long to post this one! :c

Anyway, here's how Photo Meme works:

1) Go to your photo files, select the 8th photo folder.

2) Select the 8th photo in that folder.

3) Post that photo along with the story behind it.

4) Then challenge 8 blogging friends to do the same.

And here's the pic:

This picture was taken Feb of 2009. Don't ask me why Tri sleeps like that. He's got the weirdest sleeping position. Anyway, right next to him was his football pillow. We specifically brought this one since it is a hypoallergenic toy. We have been pretty careful in choosing stuff toys, pillows or blankies for Tri due to his asthma attacks. He loves that football so much, that up until now that he's turning 2, he's still looking for it and remembers its texture.

So there you go, my first Photo Meme.

Since I only have 8 followers and one was the same person who tagged me, I think I'm gonna need to break this challenge (boo me, I know!).

Again, big sis Jenny. Sorry it took me that long to post this one.

Tri's First Artwork

2010-05-11T19:04:00.000+08:00

Two weeks ago, I decided to buy a set of color pens for Tri. I know that it is finally time for me to see if he has his mom's *ehem* artistic hands.

And here's his first masterpiece!

Oooh! He's gonna be the next Picasso or Van Gogh or Da Vinci!!!

I'm a proud mom :P

Today's Menu

2010-05-11T18:47:00.000+08:00

2-C's Korean Inspired

As requested by my good friend Divie, I will be posting this simple dish that I invented specially for my little boy. I called this 2-C's Korean Inspired dish because the two main ingredients are:

Carrots (image from wikipedia)

and

Chayote (image from wikipedia)

and are prepared the same way that Koreans slice their veggies for most of their dish.

So here's what you'll need:

2 medium sized carrots (cut in thin strips)

2 chayote (cut in thin strips)

2 medium sized onions (cut in strips)

4 cloves of garlic (crushed)

1 bouillon cube

salt and pepper to taste

fish sauce (optional)

Procedure:

1.) Heat the oil in a wok, then sauté the garlic until golden brown before adding the onions.

2.) Once the onions all look transparent, add the bouillon cube. You may mash it using a fork.

3.) Add the carrots and stir fry until the oil look a little orange in color then put the chayote.

4.) Cover the wok and let it cook for at least 3-5 minutes or until desired texture.

5.) Add some pepper for a little spice. Adjust the taste using salt or fish sauce or add about 2 tbsp of water if the bouillon cube is a bit salty to your taste.

Note: According to Koreans, the secret to their vegetable dishes is the way the ingredients are sliced. It should be almost the same length and width to achieve harmony in taste and texture.

ok, mine looks a little rubbish

Serve it with a cup of rice topped with some sesame seeds to give it a more Korean kick or thin slices of stir fried beef.

Enjoy!

The Day For All of Us, Moms

2010-05-07T22:16:00.001+08:00

Twenty six hours from now, as I am writing this, is a day that all mothers in the world have been waiting for. The day when their husbands would pamper them, when their kids would make a surprise gift--like a breakfast in bed or something, the entire family would go out for a nice lunch or romantic dinner alone with their better half.

Isn't it great?

NO!

Okay, so the kill-joy mom attacks--AGAIN!

This is gonna be my third Mother's day with nothing happening. Nothing good.

Let me recall, so you can picture things out.

Mother's day of 2008--I was in the office, my tummy is effing big, I can't even see me own toes and I am palpitating. I came from a 6pm-3am shift knowing that my better half is comfortably sleeping at home until I discovered his whereabouts.

Mother's Day 2009--I came home from work very happy, carrying the new L'Oreal mascarra Josh gave me as a gift and then discovered that Tri had been suffering a 39-degree fever the night before and my partner did not even tried to tell me. I mean, what the hell is it about him and lying?

And last but not the least, Mother's Day of 2010--I'll still be stuck in the office, with about a hundred to a hundred and fifty files to process, metrics to beat, attendance to complete, reports to send, few technician/engineer calls to receive, an overnight stay in the office--yeah...isn't it great?

Isn't it great?

I JUST WANT A VACATION!!!

or just LET ME VENT THIS OUT!!!!

Well,

There yah go.

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms and moms to be. I hope you'll all have a fun day.

Home At Last

2010-04-20T14:51:00.000+08:00

Going back to my hometown is always a thrill for me. I only get to see my brothers and sisters once a year. It was hard for me to be in this kind of set up. I know, for once, they hated the idea of me living far away from them. I missed special occasions like their birthdays, Christmas, New Year, our Dad's death anniversary and so on. I know I've missed a lot and I truly regret that. During our anniversary last February, there is only one wish I had in mind--to go back home, even if it's only an overnight stay.

February 9, Jan, Tri and I left the city at around 7am. It was a Monday and I expected heavy traffic, but I was wrong. In 30 minutes or so, we reached Sta. Lucia Mall where we took a short jeepney ride to the main road heading to Rizal and from there we took another ride but this time, it's the long trip to the south.

I've never been that too excited the way I felt during that 1 and a half hour winding ride. Tri fell asleep hugging "bibi"--his pillow almost the entire time. The smell of the summer sunshine mixing with the acacia leaves dancing in the air brought me to a trance. My childhood memories flashed back in rapid succession until I did not notice it was time for us to get off the jeepney.

We took our last ride in a tricycle with Tri still sleeping. It was the day after the town fiesta so there are still some "banderitas" hanging, men pushing their carts selling ducklings and colored chicks for pets, "palabunutan", cotton candy, coconut juice etc--every little corner of Morong looked alive. We arrived about 10am and we were welcomed by my beloved youngest brother. We had a lot of fun chatting (specially me and my Kuya). My eldest brother--who I used to work with--immediately asked for the latest news in the office (gossip is the right word, actually). He resigned from our company about a year ago due to some conflicts. Tri, at first felt different, waking up in an unfamiliar place but later on started playing everything he laid his eyes on.

Here's Tri at the garage playing tag with Uncle Jao (my youngest brother)

Tri listening to our chit chats.

We also made sure to drop by other relative's house where Tri showcased some of his "talents"--which I was very proud of! hah! lol.

Before going to sleep, I said my prayer, scanned the entire house, and told myself: "there is no other place like home".

I rushed to the bathroom, locked the door and I cried. Not because I felt sad. Not because I realized I missed a lot. But because after all the pain we've been through as a family, after all the hardships we had after my Dad's death--his spirit is still living within us. We are still connected as brothers and sisters.

I woke up the next day looking at this:

It was the most beautiful sun rays I saw beaming on the plants. It made me feel welcomed--once again.

I thanked God for giving me the opportunity to reconnect with my family and to my Dad for giving me two brothers and two sisters who are all as brave as he was when he's still alive. I promised them we will visit more often.

Today's Menu...

2010-04-16T21:55:00.000+08:00

Ginataang Sitaw at Kalabasa (String Beans and Squash in Coconut Milk)

This is one of my family dish that we often serve with fried fish typically at lunch time. I hope you'll like it, too.

Ingredients:

4 cloves of garlic, crushed

1 medium size onion, chopped

1/4 part of a small-sized squash, sliced about 1cm thick

string beans, cut about 2in in length

pork belly, sliced in bite size

1 cup of coconut milk

salt and pepper

Procedure:

For the pork belly:

1.) Wash the meat thoroughly.

2.) Heat about 2 cups of water in a sauce pan and let it boil then put the meat.

3.) Do not cover. Wait until water evaporates leaving the meat cooking on it's own fat.

4.) Take the meat out of the pan when it is already tender.

For the dish:

1.) Heat the oil on the pan.

2.) Sauté garlic until golden brown then add onions. Cook until onions turn transparent. Add the pork. Cover the pan and let the meat absorb the flavor of the garlic and onion.

3.) Add the squash and string beans.

4.) Add the coconut milk and let it simmer for a while.

5.) Adjust the taste by adding salt and pepper. A little amount of vinegar (about 2tbsp) can help give the dish a little citrus-y, acid taste to break the overwhelming creaminess of the coconut milk.

Serve with a fried tinapa or round scad and hot plain rice. Makes 4 servings.

Who Ya Callin' Big, Huh?!

2010-04-14T21:49:00.002+08:00

If there is one topic I don't really want to discuss, THIS IS IT.

Weight. Weight. Weight. More weight.

Fat. Chubby. Obese. Oversized. Plus-sized. Large.

Oh--yeah, they are jargons, aren't they?

I hoped they were jargons ever since the fist day I started school. Weight has been an ongoing issue for me. I remember how my grade school classmates would call me names, or compare my food intake or look at me like I am a piece of crap they need to face everyday. I've cried so many times but crying didn't make me thin.

My dad would tell me: "So what if you're chubby? Look at them! They are skinny and gangly--they look neglected! And you're only healthy but not chubby, they are skinny so as their brains!"

And that is why I love my Dad. :)

After grade school, I worked hard to have a "normal" built. I played volleyball and badminton and ate less. By the start of sophomore, I was as normal as I can achieve. I wasn't contented with volleyball alone so I got myself a tae-bo workout video so I can contour my body at home, before and after school. That was the peak of my glory! And damn--were there boys calling me at home!

Of course, my Dad hated the idea that I am stressing myself too much of achieving the body I want. He said, me being skinny looks like "a drug addict he once knew".

I was able to maintain that until I got my current job.

Things changed around December of 2008. People have been noticing a change on my figure months after I gave birth. And I was like, "nothings changed...just the depo jabs I'm getting" and I thought my normal life will remain the same.

The worst arrived 2009.

I felt like I was back in grade school. People are teasing me, calling me names, laugh at my figure...but unlike grade school, I can shrug things off now.

Because I AM A MOM. I believe that moms have the right to gain weight during, while and after pregnancy. I see my weight as a symbol of my responsibility to my son. My weight is not a hinder for me to achieve the other things I want. My weight cannot stop me from loving my family and most of all--hating the people who kept pulling me down ever since day 1. I am a much stronger person because of what I am now.

As hubby once said: "Do not hate what you look like. Tell me, how do you become like that? You got pregnant, got busy taking care of me and Tri, took the responsibility of choosing contraceptives that you know would make you bloat just so we won't have unexpected pregnancy. Hating your body tells me you hate our SON. Because that all happened when he came to our world, right?" (of course this was stated in Filipino but a lot more cornier version so I had to translate it in English).

Now, I have these extra pounds (I even joke I can be match for sparring for pacquiao!), I have all these arms flabs, stretch marks everywhere and the belly pouch...depression came to me, people even made fun of me...but that wont let me down.

I am a mother and my weight symbolizes what I became to be after my son was born.

image from www.theglobeandmail.com/.../article1408311/

The Wife from Hell is Back!!!!!

2010-04-12T11:56:00.000+08:00

Woooh! The past few months have been like a--what!--a roller coaster ride. And well, I'm still in it.

Personal problems have gotten into my blogging mood, which by the way made my writer soul walk away. Glad I found my soul back! Oh don't you dare walk out on me like that, soul!

I am back to wearing my commitment band. But it doesn't mean that I've forgotten everything. Its' just me showing I'm ready to patch things up. Over the past few weeks, I've learned my own lessons. Whatever that lesson is, for sure your own destiny will teach you 'em. *sniff*sniff* Oh--well, let's start the week with a good ol' recipe!

PS: to everyone wondering whatever happen to my page renovation, I'm down to two choices. I'll make up my mind anytime soon :) Sorry! And Jenny, don't ya worry, all of those three award you gave me will have their special place! Thank again, sis!

Under Construction

2010-03-05T12:27:00.000+08:00

Sorry for the inconvinience, folks.

(image from http://biz0nline.com)

This page is under constructions due to the overwhelming awards I received from my bloggy big sis Jenny , peek-a-boo will be needing a new page style to accommodate the unexpected awards (yeay me!) and to give it a more funky-child friendly theme!

We will be back soon!

Sorry, Blog :(

2010-03-04T20:36:00.000+08:00

Lately, I've been so active with my new love site Smartparenting I've been answering questions regarding Child Birth, Child Safety, babies, CS moms, birth controls and anything and everything under the sun.

This blog looked neglected, I know.

So, my deepest apologies, blog. I swear I will never forget to update you from now on. (Hope Dada will upload the pictures soon-er! The more picture, the more active my writing spirit is!)

My upcoming post:

* Me and My Weight
* Home, At Last
* Miracles of Breastfeeding
* Mother Quotes

And a lot more pending...

One of these days, my old useful writing soul will come back to my body to start telling you stories.

For the moment, I'll continue reading your pages :)

Too Many Things To Post...

2010-02-20T17:53:00.000+08:00

Nah!

I'm just too caught up with the latest season of American Idol.

Specially the hunky Casey James. (image from http://www.poptower.com/casey-james-american-idol.htm)

Okay, okay...

I know this is supposed to be a family blog. Is it a sin to have a crush on a cute, Kurt Cobain-Hanson brothers-Vincent Kartheiser combo, rocking lad from AI season 9? Is it?

Ugh.

I bet Hephaestion will drool over him!

Mother Quotes

2010-02-19T20:56:00.001+08:00

Some mothers are kissing mothers and some are scolding mothers, but it is love just the same, and most mothers kiss and scold together. ~Pearl S. Buck

What about a forgetful mom? Or an exiling mom? Or a mother with favoritism? Is it love just the same?

I'd like to share a story.

I know somebody who's had a bad experience with his own mother. He felt he's never had a connection.

When he was only a few months old, he was entrusted to a relative. His mom said she will only be gone for a while and only needed someone to look after him. Days, weeks, months...this little boy's mom never return. After a year, the boy's relative found out that his mom is pregnant again. And so, they continue to care for the little one already with them.

The little boy was pampered. Never was he neglected of food, clothing and shelter. His basic needs fulfilled but still emotionally empty. Soon after, little boy learned he's already a brother. He was taken back and forth to see his family but the realtives who took care of him opted to take responsibility of him. He grew up with no mother to hug when he's hurt and no father to look up to as a role model.

Time to time his father would come home, give him toys, clothes, food he loves. Take him to the mall, travel, have a vacation. But still, he felt empty. There is still no connection.

At last, his parents decided to get him back on the family he should live and grow up with. he was given everything he's supposed to get. His own room, his own tv, car, latest gadgets, freedom, money. But still...his heart is empty.

And full of envy.

Never did a day pass that he's not arguing with his mom. He didn't like her choice of words, her decisions, her being a loud mouth, her trying to be someone she's not, her living up a world she's not supposed to...and her favoring his sibling over him.

The moment he knew he is ready to have his own family, he introduced the girl only to find out his mom would not allow them to get married. He was devastated, but then, no one can stop them.

Their lives as a partner, did not go smoothly as planned. A lot of problems, a lot of trouble, but still they were together. They were kept and shooed, kept and shooed by his parents. They just wanna be free. His heart was broken and shattered when he learned that his mother never recognizes him as his son. Only declares his other children. He was badly hurt.

He asked: "It is because I chose to be a father to my son?"

"Is it because I cannot find a suitable job where I can excel?"

"Is it because I chose to be with someone with no good family background? Did not finish school and just simply not what they want for me?"

And to all his question he knew the answer was a 'yes'.

Still, he moves on with his life. At a not-so mature but no too old age, I see this person as a very groomed man, responsible, devoted--a father to a son he plans to raise on their own. He is now more independent, although still living close to the relatives who took care of him, he's done (and still doing) things a normal guy his age would not want to do, he is not afraid of what other people will think about him, he does not care if his friends would laugh at him while they see him hanging wet clothes outside to sun-dry 'em. People see him walking tall, carrying a young boy on one hand and the other hand with a bag full of groceries.

I am proud to know this man...

And will forever be.

But tell me, is it love just the same?

I THINK NOT. Reality bites, not all moms deserve to be called moms.

Being A Mother

2010-02-12T22:31:00.000+08:00

This is a short story I hope will make you think to celebrate Valentines day, in a different way...

After 21 years of marriage, my wife wanted me
to take another woman out to dinner and a movie.
She said, 'I love you, but I know this other woman
loves you and would Love to spend some time with you.'

The other woman my wife wanted me to visit was my Mother, who has been a widow for 19 years, but the demands of my work and my three children made it possible to visit her only occasionally.

That night I called to invite her to go out for dinner
and a movie. 'What's wrong, are you well,' she asked? My mother is the type of woman who suspects that a late night call or a surprise invitation is a sign of bad news.

'I thought that it would be pleasant to spend some time with you,' I responded 'just the two of us.' She thought about it for a moment, and then said, 'I would like that very much.'

That Friday after work, as I drove over to pick her up I was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her house, I noticed that she, too, seemed to be nervous about our date. She waited in the door with her coat on. She had curled her hair and was wearing the dress that she had worn to celebrate her last wedding anniversary. She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an angel's. 'I told my friends that I was going to go out with my son, and they were impressed,' she said, as she got into the car. 'They can't wait to hear about our meeting.'

We went to a restaurant t that, although not elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my arm as if she were the First Lady.

After we sat down, I had to read the menu. Her eyes could only read large print. Half-way through the entrees, I lifted my eyes and saw Mother sitting there staring at me.
A nostalgic smile was on her lips.

'It was I who used to have to read the menu when you were small,' she said. 'Then it's time that you relax and let me return the favor,' I responded.. During the dinner, we had an agreeable conversation nothing extraordinary but catching up on recent events of each other's life. We talked so much that we missed the movie. As we arrived at her house later, she said, 'I'll go out with you again, but only if you let me invite you.' I agreed.

'How was your dinner date?' asked my wife when I got home. 'Very nice, much more so than I could have imagined,' I answered.

A few days later, my mother died of a massive heart attack. It happened so suddenly that I didn't have a chance to do anything for her. Sometime later, I received an envelope with a copy of a restaurant receipt from the same place Mother and I had dined. An attached note said: 'I paid this bill in advance. I wasn't sure that I could be there; but, nevertheless, I paid for two plates - one for you and the other for your wife. You will never know what that night meant for me.

'I love you, son'

At that moment, I understood the importance of saying in time: 'I love YOU' and to give our loved ones the time that they deserve. Nothing in life is more important than your family. Give them the time they deserve, because these things cannot be put off till some 'other' time.

Somebody said it takes about six weeks to get back to normal after you've had a baby... somebody doesn't know that once you're a mother, 'normal' is history.

Somebody said you ca n't love the second child as much as you love the first... somebody doesn't have two or more children.

Somebody said the hardest part of being a mother is labor and delivery....somebody never watched her 'baby' get on the bus for the first day of kindergarten.... or on a plane headed for military 'boot camp.'

Somebody said a Mother can stop worrying after her child gets married... somebody doesn't know that marriage adds a new son or daughter-in-law to a mother's heartstrings.

Somebody said a mother's job is done when her last child leaves home... somebody never had grandchildren..

Somebody said your mother knows you love her, so you don't need to tell her... somebody isn't a mother.

Pass this along to all the GREAT 'mothers' in your life and to everyone who ever had a mother..

This isn't just about being a mother; it's about appreciating the people in your lives while you have them... no matter who that person is!

PS: thanks to Mudra of SP forums for letting me borrow this story.

Happy Anniversary and Happy Valentine's Day, Daddy!

2010-02-12T22:22:00.000+08:00

I think I just puked.

Okay, I may be a little bit exaggerating, but trust me--I am no mushy person.

No offense meant by the first statement, I am just not the type of person who celebrates anniversaries and Valentine's Day in an extraordinary way (same goes with hubby). Although this year I promised myself I'll try to be a little sweeter and more gentle (much of a Stepford Wives category).

I'll try to make a change this time and dedicate a post to my beloved partner in life. The past few days, I realized it is finally time for hubby to have a dedicated post (I do not usually post anything about my relationship with him, I bet my friends Jelly and Hephaestion know why). So anyway, here it goes:

Daddy,

Today is a special day for us. Three years ago, over a small casual talk, we decided we'll have our own family. You asked me if I'd like to come and live with you and I said yes. We planned to get married, you asked my family's permission and went beyond that by informing all your friends. I was amazed and flattered. I felt like I was the prettiest girl in the world and I felt how proud you are of me. I know we've been through a lot. You, staying with me, is against your parents' will. It was hard for them when you finally announced our plans. It was hard for them because we were too young then and they thought we were only planning to get married because I was already carrying a child. They thought we were too young and we'll end up relying on them. You tried to prove 'em wrong. Still, even against their will, you opted to stick with me (even without the marriage thingy). Few months after, we found out we were pregnant. You were crazy like hell you started cursing and laughing and sending sms to your friends and relatives. From then on, I knew you would be a good father.

Our relationship isn't perfect. Nothing is. We went through a lot. And by "a lot" this is not an understatement. We fight every now and then. I discovered there is still some things about you that should be left unexplored--some things you hoped I did not find out. Out of arguments I hoped I never said "yes" in the first place, hoped I never initiated the chat with you during our introduction...

But most of the time, I prayed that I won't lose you. Because you were the only person, inspite of my misbehavior, understood what I am going through. You came just the right time. You were God's gift to me during my lowest point in life. You are my everyday strength to help me get through the day and face reality. You were there to take away my pain. You were there to make me realize no matter what I look, I'd still be the best mom for our son. You were there to teach me how important it is to talk things over and say sorry even if it is not my fault. You were there to make me express my hidden emotions. You were there when I miss my dad. You were there when I am in terrible pain during my labor. You were there to take the very first video of our son minutes after he was born.

I may not say all of these things infront of you. I may not say "i love you" as much as a "normal" couple does. I may yell at you, call you names, and all but I love you. ~~And I'll always be here even if your entire family shoo you away.~~ I'll be here to help you kick a$$ and skin 'em alive, sprinkle them with salt and pepper and roll 'em to the sand--

Okay, okay...

Happy anniversary my dearest. No other father ~~not even yours~~ can do what you did and still doing to raise Tri. I'll dare any other Dads out there to do all the tasks you have performed and I'll bet they will wave their white flags.

And well--okay, happy valentines day!

Oh--sh!t this sucks...

~~Your wife from hell,~~

Love,

Mommy

Tri's Haircut

2010-02-10T11:00:00.000+08:00

I failed to post Tri's very first haircut before he turned 1 so I'm gonna post his most recent.

This is Tri and his Dad's third trip to the local barbershop for a cut and so far my baby has been pretty much cooperative.

watching tv before facing the evil razor :D

let's get it on!

voila!

Hubby was able to catch a video and I saw how well-behaved our baby was. I remembered him throwing a tantrum during the first and second time I brought him to the expensive kiddie salon! It was a little bit embarrassing on my part, but hey--a baby is still a baby right?

I Salute You, Ben Tulfo

2010-02-10T10:42:00.000+08:00

Many Filipinos know who Ben Tulfo is. A columnist for a newspaper and a radio newscaster. He and his siblings are well known for the tough looks, sarcastic comments, unlimited use of profanities, respect to the women, concern about the young ones and their spontaneous attack to suspected criminals--okay, mostly profanities.

Last week, I caught his Tuesday episode of Bitag. He covered a story about these people using the little ones to get money from bystanders or passerby. I've known this type of activity for quite some time. I've been a victim once or twice.

The modus: a thirty-ish woman carrying a 10-month old baby (child's age may range from infant up to 8 years old) will approach a bystander, beg for some spare change saying "gusto lang po namin makauwi. Kulang po pamasahe namin" ("we just want to go home but my money isn't enough for the bus fair").

I bet anyone gifted with the what I call "a mother's heart" will fall for this type of crap! Who wouldn't? This woman has been carrying the baby in the street for quite a while. The baby must be hungry and tired and maybe sleepy. Any mom would not want a young child suffering from all of these right?

And so, when this verbiage was once used to me, I felt obliged to produce 50 bucks out of my pocket.

Call me loser :(

A concern citizen brought this story up to Ben Tulfo on his progrm Bitag and they followed these people around Monumento area (the same place where I saw 'em!). They studied the entire activity for the day, they noticed there are 2 or 3 pairs (an adult and a child) doing this routine and the following day, they arrested one lady on the act with a 7-yer old girl. The lady denied knowing the child but later on admits that she is her own daughter.

I mean, what is wrong with the world, Mom-uh?

I am just so thankful Mr. Tulfo knew the right time and the right place to catch the devils on the street.

I salute you, sir!

Today's Menu...

2010-02-04T20:43:00.000+08:00

Sweet and Sour Chicken :)

Lately, I've been too inspired to cook. Well, it's been a hobby ever since I was a kid but due to my busy schedule, I rarely got time to do so.

I managed to revive a family recipe last Tuesday. And here it goes:

The ingredients:

1/2 kg chicken
1 small can of pineapple chunks with syrup
90 g tomato sauce
2 carrots, diced
baguio beans
2 red bell peppers, sliced
4 cloves of garlic
1 medium sized onion

Meat:

1.) Wash the chicken thoroughly.
2.) Marinate the chicken using the pineapple syrup for 30 minutes to an hour.

Starting the dish:

1.) Heat the pan and the oil. Saute garlic and onion then add the carrots.
2.) Once the carrots are half cooked, add the chicken. Put the lid and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until you no longer see red stains (blood) on the chicken meat (specially on the leg part).
3.) Add the bell pepper, beans and pineapple chunks before pouring the tomato sauce.
4.) Lastly salt and pepper to taste (optional).

Some of the shots I managed to get while my phone is in "near-death" (hehe!)

chicken, carrots and beans

chicken, carrots, beans, tomato sauce and pineapple.

(see, my cam phone caught the steam!)

and this is how it should be served...like a pro :)

Try it for you and your kid (if you have one!). The sweetness of the pineapple and the sour citrus-y taste of the tomato sauce is all but heaven. Serve it with hot plain rice and eat it with your hands! Feels like home, once again...

Mother Quotes

2010-02-03T22:17:00.000+08:00

"Mothers are fonder than fathers of their children because they are more certain they are their own."
-- Aristotle

I'm just not sure which angle tells me I am his mom. He's his dad's carbon copy :)

Buy a New LCD...or a New Wife?! WTF!

2010-01-30T14:32:00.000+08:00

I was at work the other day when I received an email from a customer inquiring about how to get a new screen for his LCD tv. Apparently, his wife or soon-to-be-ex wife according to him, hit the screen with a hammer. I was not quite sure whether to laugh or to salute. I thought "a**ho**, perhaps you deserve that. You go girl!". I was tempted to reply: "what the hell did you do that drive your wife mad?!". And my officemates wanted me to answer: GET A NEW WIFE.

Nah...I re-routed the email so they (my co-workers) can answer it, even if I know the part number and the price. If I didn't, I may have just been exchanging letters to that guy, giving him lectures. :) hehe

The Exploding Bomb

2010-01-27T22:44:00.000+08:00

Today, 10:02PM Manila Time, the bomb in me exploded.

Rewind, Thursday, 1/21/2010.

My life sounded like a tick bomb. I am counting down the days before Sunday afternoon. I do not want that day to come. Few days after the start of 2010, my dear friend Josh a.k.a Hephaestion talked to me about him planning to transfer to the new project that our company have. He said that it is just the perfect timing. All his plans for 2010 is finally falling into its respective places. With him transferring to the new project, he'll have enough time for his family, he can finally go back to school to finish his studies, and he would still be able to fly to Italy! I am so happy for him! He can accomplish all those things and it's not even mid-year. I was so happy until I finally realize "how about me?"

Fast-forward, Sunday, 1/23/2010.

Here comes the final ticking of my clock. 7 minutes before 1:00PM Manila Time. I can hear Spice Girls' "Goodbye, my friend, I know you're gone, you said you're gone but I can still feel you here...better keep it strong before the pain turns into fear...". I fought my tears back. No I am not going to cry. Jokingly, I said "What's with the song?". Josh naughtily smiled, "Testing our tear glands, I know mine isn't working anymore!". Spice Girls ended, but was immediately followed by Mariah Carey's "This is for my people who just lost somebody, your bestfriend, your baby, your man or your lady...". I logged out as soon as I saw the digital clock on my avaya hitting end shift. I was trying as hard as I could to leave the premises. But Josh volunteered to walk me out. I asked Jelly to come with us. I know it is not going to be a no-tear-formula :) I hailed the next jeepney I saw, said my last goodbye, gave my last hug and rushed to the waiting vehicle, not looking back. It was saddest time of my life after the death of my father. The tear I was holding back just started to drop. Thoughts came rushing to my head. There was a weird feeling of deja vu, my jaw was tightened, and I can feel the shortness of my breath. I knew I had to let it go. And just in time, I heard the radio played Through the Years. (No, we were not intimately involved! We're like sisters or even closer...). The words hit me like a cold stone "through the years when everything went wrong, together we were strong, I know that I belong..." I finally let it go. I fumbled through my phone and send him this message "F****ng jeepney! F*****g song! I failed testing my tear gland :( I'll sure look for you everyday, you bi*ch!!"

~~Josh: I'll send you the bucket of tears as soon as I'm done~~

Mother Quotes

2010-01-27T21:51:00.000+08:00

Tri @ 9 months old

I saw pure love when my son looked at me, and I knew that I had to make a good life for the two of us...
- Suzanne Somers

DIAPER REVIEW: Pampers Comfort

2010-01-27T21:22:00.000+08:00

Tri has been on diapers 24/7 since birth. During his first three months, he's using the EQ diaper. Affordable. But the quality isn't that good.

So hubby and I decided to switch brands and go for Pampers comfort. Reasonable price and just the right quality.

Or so I thought.

It was last month, before Christmas, I noticed something wrong with the product. The adhesive tape on the left side seems to be getting detached from the waist band. I thought it was only because Tri has been so active lately, or maybe he is peeing too much and we have not paid that much attention to changing the nappies right away.

Two or three nappies, I can shrug it off. But 9 out of 10 nappies--there should be something.

So I called Pampers customer line. Boy--were they the nicest customer service ever! The representative, Liezel, told me that I have two options. 1.) have a refund or 2.) have a replacement. Both options were good and didn't leave me on a dead end. And Liezel was straight forward enough to tell me which one is fastest--get a refund. It will only take me 2 banking days to get my P400 back while the replacement product will take 10-15 days for me to get it. And my only requirement is for me to ship the remaining nappies.

You betcha--I opt for the refund. She just asked couple of information and I'm all set.

2 days after, the carrier came and picked up the package and the day after that I got my control number, went to the nearest Western Union and got my P400 back. The money isn't that big amount, but the experience was okay. At least Pampers can stand behind their products.

Dada, however, shows distrust to them. He never bought Pampers again. Tri is currently on Drypers.

So far,so good...I hope :)

Mother Quotes

2010-01-21T20:31:00.000+08:00

Tri and his spiky hair! :)

I never knew how much love my heart could hold until someone called me "mommy."
-- Author Unknown

Dada's Got Strained Foot!

2010-01-19T22:04:00.000+08:00

When I got home Thursday night last week, hubby was complaining about his right foot badly hurt.

I panicked. Thought it might be broken or something.

I forced him to go an ER.

He didn't. He is a big doctor-and-hospital-hater.

He instead produced a menthol ointment and a bandage.

I am pissed and kept on ranting while wrapping his foot. I hate it that he doesn't like doctors--of fear maybe, or of the cost of a single checkup. I really don't understand.

As I was finishing the bandage and putting on his socks, I noticed our little Tri walking around the house and went to one of the corners. He stayed there for a little while and went back screaming at me: "Mymy! Mymy!"

He was holding his Daddy's Reebok.

"Dada" he said, holding the shoe up.

I was dumbfounded.

He thought wearing socks means going out! It was cute. But that cuteness is just a mere minute I was not able to snap a photo! Grrrr...

It's ok, hubby's foot is ok now and he can now walk around even went back to the gym the day after.

Not Again!

2010-01-19T16:32:00.000+08:00

Friday morning, as I was heading to work on my usual routine, I witnessed another snatching event.

It isn't safe anywhere, anymore right?

Right.

This time the victim was an elderly woman carrying like five bags of groceries. I didn't notice it first until I heard her screaming. I looked back realizing I was only three or four feet away. She's frantically screaming until a lot of people are looking at her and the snatcher.

And him--the snatcher around the age of 28-35, wearing yellow green shirt and checkered shorts--stepped back a little and walked like nothing happened. He was not able to get anything from the woman.

Fortunately.

I felt clenching my fist--really hard as I watched the snatcher walk. His eyes were of a playful teenager who doesn't know what's fun and what's not. His jaw was tightened, with a sly grin. I thought I saw devil again.

I asked myself "why would you get some stuff that other people worked hard for?!"

"you've got a good firm body which you should be using for work instead of snatching!"

And I thought I saw myself dragging him on the edge of the street then pushing him off the road while hundreds of buses came rushing.

Beep! Beep! Beep!

The taxi driver was angrily honking.

I didn't realize I was watching him (the snatcher) walk by. And I didn't know I was staring at him that long eye to eye. That was the longest time I looked at someone in the eye with...anger.

How could our own policemen let these incidents pass? How could there be some people who are willing to hurt others to get what they need--even if they can actually get 'em the legal way? Why are there some bystanders like me who just let these things happen? Why am I not taught to defend others?

I calmed myself.

I thought of karma and how it attacks a person.

It's better off that way. At least nobody's hurt. Nothing stolen.

Thank you, Lord.

Mother Quotes

2010-01-13T22:27:00.000+08:00

You rock a sobbing child without wondering if today's world is passing you by, because you know you hold tomorrow tightly in your arms.

-Neal A. Maxwell

Taking Good Care of Baby's Teeth

2010-01-12T21:27:00.000+08:00

I recently blogged about Tri finally having interest in brushing his own teeth. But, it was never a smooth sailing journey to get him to do it.

The moment I saw the very first pearly white on his lower gum (about 7 months old), I've been the clean-freak mother (AGAIN!). I've started using the baby gum massager to brush his gums and his single tooth. He doesn't like it though. I remember he kept on sticking out his tongue! End up using the old fashion way--cleaning his mouth with a clean cloth damped in mineral water.

Here are some tips I'd like to share for a successful teeth cleaning:

1.) Start cleaning your baby's mouth even before a tooth starts to appear.

Baby's mouth should always be cleaned. Once a day would do, specially if he's too little for the cleaning. You may use the end of a clean cotton cloth damped in mineral water (why mineral water? for safety purposes--to avoid diarrhea or gastrointestinal diseases). Wipe the tongue to get rid of the white cheese-like color you see. Cleaning the tongue can also help in maintaining a pleasant sweet odor a baby's mouth should have.

2.) Once you see a tooth erupting, clean it!

I've read an article from this site . It says it is wrong to think that since it's baby teeth, it's all gonna be replaced by the permanent ones, so it's okay if it's not cleaned all the time. The milk teeth serve as guide in lining up the permanent teeth. They will fall out eventually, yes--but not brushing regularly may increase the chance of your baby getting cavities or tooth decay which will result for them to fall out earlier than it should be.

3.) Watch the sugar intake.

Babies that are formula fed, like Tri, should not be given milk to put them to sleep and leaving it for a long period of time (specially if they seem to be not feding anymore). The sugar content on the formula milk is the major cause of cavities on children today. If this is unavoidable, change the ratio of the milk and water (ex. 4 scoops : 8oz water, make it 3 scoops : 8oz water).

4.) Water.

Let your baby drink water every after meal. Water can easily wash off infant meals on your baby's teeth. But water alone cannot clean all the dirt, so start introducing toothbrush (1st step brush, one with the soft bristle).

5.) Baby toothpaste.

Baby tooth gel/toothpaste are widely available through local stores (Mercury Drugs, Watsons) and baby sections on department stores. Go for the brand Sansfluo. It is a non-fluoride tooth gel, safe to use for children 3 and below, even if swallowed. Since children around this age are still unable to rinse their mouth, it is still not advisable to use fluoride toothpaste. Studies have shown that fluoride intake on children at this age can cause spots on their teeth.

6.) Regular checkups.

A professional help is still the best option to achieve a nice set of baby teeth. It is recommended that parents bring their babies as soon as the you see the first tooth or not later than a year old. Expect a little of tantrums and a bit of embarrassment, but hey--what the heck!

I still have a year or two to chase Tri around the house and ~~force~~ help him to clean his teeth. A little messy, a little exhausting, but all the hard work will pay off.

Happy Brushing!

Today's Menu...

2010-01-11T13:18:00.000+08:00

Menudo!

No, I am not talking about the boyband where Ricky Martin came from!

I was a little in-the-mood for cooking today. I asked hubby what he wants and go for Menudo.(It's a dish made up of garlic, onions, bell peppers, carrots, potatoes, tomato sauce, pork meat and/or liver.

And here's what I made:

This is still in the process of cooking the meat and the vegetables. It's a festive of colors and flavors (if only my trusted Motorola phone can catch it! Grrr!)

And here's the finish product:

Some fried rice added for Tri's complete meal :)

He loved it! Look:

He's even trying to feed himself with a spoonful!

If my readers (if I do have...hehe) would like to try my simpler version of the Filipino menudo, here's the recipe:

2 red onions
4 cloves of garlic
1/2 kg of pork meat
4 medium sized potatoes (diced)
1 large carrot (diced)
2 bell peppers
1 275g of tomato sauce
1/2 cup of soy sauce
juice of 3 medium sized calamansi
salt and pepper to taste

Procedure:

For the meat:

1.) Wash the meat carefully.
2.) Slice 3 medium-sized calamansi.Remove the seeds then extract the juice.
3.) Marinate the pork in soy sauce and calamansi juice for about 30 minutes.

Getting the dish ready:

1.) Heat the oil on the pan.
2.) Saute garlic until golden brown then add the onions. Cook until the onions look transparent. Then add the meat only (set aside the marinade). Wait 'til the pinkish meat turns brownish in color then add the carrots, potatoes and bell peppers. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until both meat and vegetables are cooked well.
3.) Add the marinade and the tomato sauce, some salt and pepper to taste and grated cheddar cheese (optional) for added "umami". Put the cover back and leave it for another 10 minutes to let all the flvor blend.

Serve it hot with plain rice or fried rice.Makes 6-8 servings.

This isn't a bad dish at all for babies 1yr and up. Chunks of vegetables and a good splash of the tomato sauce with cheese over a plain rice is packed with nutrients. Plus, both parents and baby can enjoy a good dish together.

Mother Quotes

2010-01-06T22:10:00.000+08:00

"To the world you might just be one person,
but to one person you might be the world."

~ Author Unknown

I love you, son.

Tri Look-Alikes

2010-01-05T15:30:00.000+08:00

Which one do you think??? :D

Tri and Tommy?

Tri and Aang?

Tri and Zangief?

Uhh...I'd like to go for the second one :) hehehe

Let Us All Welcome 2010!

2010-01-05T14:57:00.000+08:00

2009 have been--let's say, fair enough for me. Had a few mishaps but still plenty of blessings to be glad about. Had a little misunderstandings, but a lot of tender moments together. A lot of my moodiness, a lot of Tri's bubbly laughter. The yin and yang still present.

I would like to thank 2009 for the following:

#1. For the valuable shopping time we had (for the first time with our baby, Tri).

#2. For the 3-day vacation I had with my two sisters and my beloved little brother.

#3. For letting us travel all the way to Morong (my hometown) safely so I can be present on my sister's graduation day!

#4. For helping me and hubby on those tough days when nobody seemed to care for us.

#5. For letting us celebrate Tri's first birthday. Although it happened opposed to what I've planned, almost out of budget, last minute CHANGESSSSSSS (a lot was change!), without the presence of my family--I am still thankful that I was able to give my son a party.

#6. For my hubby's birthday party (small one) that his cousins prepared for him ( I didn't like the idea of it, really--with the beers and all that?!). Anyway, it is the way birthdays are celebrated in the Philippines.

#7. For introducing me to the world of blogging! :D

#8. For getting hubby back into shape. No more smoking. No more drinking. More workout.

#9. For letting us survive the deadly Ondoy and Pepeng. Though a lot lost their loved ones, lost their homes, lost their jobs...life has to move on.

#10. For the three pearly whites on Tri's gum! :)

#11. For helping me decide to switch from depo shot to the oral pill and making me feel how a normal body works (AGAIN!).

#12. For celebrating my 23rd birthday even without my Dad (in four years), but with all of my friends, my beloved son and my husband.

Thank you for the wonderful experiences 2009. I'll be facing 2010 stronger, more confident, more loving and a much more responsible person.

Welcome, 2010! We will have 525 600 minutes to face.

Five hundred twenty-five thousand

Six hundred minutes,

Five hundred twenty-five thousand

Moments so dear

Five hundred twenty-five thousand

Six hundred minutes

How do you measure, measure a year?

In daylights, in sunsets, in midnights

In cups of coffee

In inches, in miles, in laughter, in strife

In five hundred twenty-five thousand

Six hundred minutes

How do you measure a year in the life?

How about love? How about love?

How about love? Measure in love

Seasons of love

Five hundred twenty-five thousand

Six hundred minutes

Five hundred twenty-five thousand

Journeys to plan

Five hundred twenty-five thousand

Six hundred minutes

How do you measure the life

Of a woman or a man?

In truths that she learned

Or in times that he cried

In bridges he burned

Or the way that she died

It's time now to sing out

Tho' the story never ends

Let's celebrate

Remember a year in the life of friends

Remember the love

(Oh you got to, got to)

Remember the love

(Remember the love)

Seasons of love

(Measure measure you life in love)

Seasons of love

Seasons of Love from RENT

Celebrating New Year's Eve, Kill-Joy Mom Version

2010-01-01T16:36:00.000+08:00

New year's eve...hmmm...

I remember celebrating New Year's Eve when I was a little..err chubby kid. 10pm is cooking time and would mostly last until 11:30pm minutes before the grand countdown. 11:45pm I am all ready with my two hands on my ear and a scarf to cover my nose and mouth (firecracker smoke bad for lungs!). And by that time, my relatives in the house would:

1.) Open all windows and doors
- a Filipino superstitious belief which signifies the family allowing "luck" to enter the house.

2.) Blow their horns/Set all kinds of firecrackers in the street
- Old folks said this is to scare the bad spirit.

3.) Shake some coins to make a loud noise before tossing them
- Sign of prosperity.

4.) Wear Polk-a-dots.
- If we are still on the late 80's or early 90's, I think it is still fashionable!

5.) Jump.Jump.Jump.
- So we will grow taller.

6.) Decorate the house with round fruits.
- Round fruits means infinity (and beyond! :p)

7.) Gather around the table and pig out!

Uhhh...this ain't happening now. Again, I'll be stuck in the office 'til Sunday afternoon. I'll hybernate as much as I can. And again, I had been debating with myself whether or not to come to work today until the very last minute. But the working mom side won. My conscience said I need to provide for my family. I have bills to pay, a bagpack to buy for my little brother, food to serve for my own family and twenty-more-thousand-peso fee for my dental thingy. My mommy side tried to fight back, but freakin' workforce did not apporve my Leave request!! I can just not report to work and send a message to my bosses--but that would be unfair. My office mates had been offering for me to log out early so I can still go home, or even asked me to celebrate the eve with them--NO. My mind is fixed.

I wonder if Tri hates me now for not being with him today and being such a kill-joy... :(

Am I a kill-joy?

Post Christmas Event

2009-12-30T23:39:00.000+08:00

Well, I was stuck in the office for 4 days starting from Christmas eve. Not that I do not like being at home during holidays--of course I wanna be with Tri during these special days. I was sad not being able to personally greet my baby Merry Christmas. It's been two years in a row. It'll always come to a point that I will be torn between work and motherhood. Both I love. Both I need to do dutifully. I am just so thankful that there are people--good friends, I'd like to add--that are willing to fill whatever it is that I can't afford to do for my son.

Thank you for the gifts Ninang Alecx and Ninang Mela!

Tri received this toy car from his Godmother "Nineng" Alecx. He calls it "eep-eep" (jeep)

And these are books from his Ninang Mela. Different types of animals and types of vehicles. He thought he can read 'em! Ha! He loves them with all it's bright pictures and flaps that can be lifted. He's scared of the animal book, though. Saw the owl staring at him right on the very first page...:)

The mat was from Josh a.k.a Hephaestion. Tri thought it was a cape!

Again, thank you so much for always having my son on your list, for doing a small task that I often cannot perform as simple as picking a gift for him (so embarrassing), for being his second Mom (yeah Hephaestion, you're a Mom!) and for cheering me up! I love you, guys. I also want to thank Jelly and Zero4ce for the spa gift cert (I'll sure use it!), for Myra and the delish cookies, for Divie and her pulvoron (love 'em, love 'em!) and another count for Hephaestion for all the gifts you gave. I honestly lost track! Thank you guys.

For Dada and his undying patience, thank you. I love you with all my heart.

Happy Holidays, y'all!

Mother Quotes

2009-12-30T22:53:00.000+08:00

This post goes to my Mom. I hope you can read this.

A father may turn his back on his child, brothers and sisters may become inveterate enemies, husbands may desert their wives, wives their husbands. But a mother's love endures through all. ~Washington Irving

scheek-a-scheek-scheek, 3 times a day :)

2009-12-27T20:59:00.000+08:00

Today, I am announcing that my baby boy Tri, is a TOOTHBRUSH FRIENDLY BABY and that he does not hate 'em anymore!

During Tri's sponge bath, I offered him to brush his teeth and looked pretty excited as I hand him his 1st stage set of toothbrush (one with actual bristles and the other with silicon brushes). I put a little of the Sansfluo toothpaste on both. As always, he'll taste a bit of the paste, then lick it (strawberry flavor flouride free so it's safe!) and just play with the brushes after. I was surprised to see him do the left-to-right brushing technique that I was asking him to do--and boy, was he good at it! Although, it was just two-three strokes, it was not that bad for a beginner! :) I'll be watching him closely to see if it'll progress.

'Let ya know!

MOVIE REVIEW: The Proposal

2009-12-27T20:29:00.000+08:00

We had a lot of free time a while ago during my last shift. We decided to watch Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynold's "The Proposal" thru the websense-immune movie streaming site we discovered (ha!). I was not able to watch this movie on theater (I mean, when was the last time I actually see a movie in big screen?hmmm...Beowulf?? And I remembered feeling sleepy...)

Okay, back to "The Proposal". For those who have not seen it, it's a romantic comedy film about an executive editor in chief, Margaret Tate (Bullock) and her assistant Andrew Paxton (Reynolds) who both settled on a deal to get married after Tate was informed that she'll be deported to Canada. Paxton agreed under the condition that he will be promoted as an editor and that Tate will publish his manuscript. (for full synopsis, click here.)

My rating for Sandra Bullock, in a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being the highest), I'll give her an 8. I can see me thru her! LOL. I was convinced that she is (Tate) too bossy that every employee hates her. And I love it that she always have the last word and that she'll do the talking--or else you're outta here.

And for the hunky Ryan Reynolds that Hephaestion drools about--it's a 7. I don't see enough emotion to establish the fact that he started liking his "evil" boss. But the charisma and all that--well, we can perfectly see!

For the movie itself, it's a fair 7. Again, whether it is the movie or Reynolds' acting strategy that does not give the surprising spark for Paxton to suddenly fall in love with Tate, it's all covered by the chemistry and Bullock's internalization of the character.

Sorry for the technical terms :) Over all, I enjoyed it!

Letter To My Baby

2009-12-24T18:22:00.001+08:00

Baby,

Happy 19th-month birthday! I am so glad to see you grow, hear you utter words in your cutest way, see you dance and sing along the Playhouse Disney themes. Thanks for giving me the chance to experience motherhood even if it sometimes drains my energy.

Merry, merry Christmas to you, baby. My-my is so sorry for not spending the Christmas eve and Christmas day with you and Da-da two years in a row. I hope you will understand. When you grow up and read this, you will understand why My-my is always away and working. I hope you still love me as much as I love you. May the Lord bless you with good health and knowledge that will help you grow up as a responsible person. May your Papa Nito stay always by your side and guide you through everyday. He is your angel. :)

I miss you so bad. I promise, as soon as I am off from work, we will have a good quality time together and we will post-celebrate Christmas. All three of us! Your Ninang Alecx bought you a big big gift! I saw it on her desk. You'll get it first thing Sunday when I get home.

Need to stop writing by now. ~~This is my only chance to sleep full ten hours after five or so months!!~~ ~~My-my will go on hybernating mode~~. Be safe baby and be a good angel for your Da-da.

Much love,

My-my

Me and My Big Foot :)

2009-12-24T17:49:00.000+08:00

Is it just me or my big foot?

In a matter of a month, I've had three pairs of slippers already. Always have slippers trouble. Just last night, to add up to my bad day, my right-foot slipper snapped again--take note of the word AGAIN! I am just so glad I have an extra slip on on my bag and that it happened while I am already inside the bus and not when I am walking, otherwise...

Today, I am using the cow eye slippers. Argh!

Maybe I should just go with the sneakers.

Is it really just me or my big foot?

PISSED OFF!!!

2009-12-24T11:57:00.000+08:00

You really can tell by now I don't have a single drop of holiday spirit in me..

Uh-huh.

I had a very long day which I think will last until the very last minute. I am so pissed off I feel like I wanna punch someone in the face! I don't get why there are some people who have to ruin your day because of their irritating behavior.

I wanna know why there are some people who are trying to hold you back of something. Some people I think doesn't want to see somebody else happy. Hello?! Does the word ENVY ring a bell?!

And then there are some guys at work who doesn't care for their co-employees. Hey, guys I think I need a vaca or something! Or just grant my loan or get lost--I'll be much happier!!!!

And the Ms. Chernobyl neighbor commented about me having my braces fitted and said that she can't see any effect on my weight. Girl, do you actually know the purpose of dental braces? It is for straightening the teeth and not a diet pill. I think I know why you haven't even made it to finish high school. But I kept being nice, answering back: "It's not even tightened yet. I can still bite people (like you!)".

And then there are some members of your very own bloodline. Well--not mine, hubby's. You can measure their personality by chocolates. YES. f***ing CHOCOLATES! I really don't care if we are not gonna get our share! I mean, what the hell is a pack of chocolates--I can buy a box of that! But hubby is making a big deal out of it. He said that he is still a family member and should get an equal share. Apparently, they do not know the word EQUAL. What a pathetic argument. So glad I do not carry your blood.

There's also someone who came and left our house without a single word. Hello?! Have you ever heard of the word "RESPECT"? Thinking about it, it's okay. I'm not the one who's a major failure. You've got the face, but don't have the IQ.

I'm so sorry I have to be mean. Just can't help it.

Yeah, call me Grinch or Mr. Scrooge.

Sorry, just have to vent it out...

Mother Quotes

2009-12-23T11:28:00.000+08:00

I've seen a lot of blogs with their Wordless Wednesday. I love just looking at the pictures on their pages and I have nothing against the idea. Just thought of making something different.

This Wednesday, I'll start my Mother Quotes post to inspire moms reading my page, all moms-to-be, and moms of moms.

"Becoming a mother makes you the mother of all children. From now on each wounded, abandoned, frightened child is yours. You live in the suffering mothers of every race and creed and weep with them. You long to comfort all who are desolate." -Charlotte Gray

Who does not have teary eyes looking at those babies being carried around the street for food or spare change? Who does not feel devastated hearing from the news that a child was a victim of such tragedies? Who does not wish she can run to get the baby and cuddle him to make him feel warm in a cold December night, knowing the baby is not hers? No such mother is numb not to feel hurt by all of these.

A mother is always a mother wherever she goes.

This Is His Way of Saying...

2009-12-21T14:16:00.000+08:00

The past few days have been great with my son. He's learning to speak and follow some instructions. Thinking back, I wondered how I was able to "communicate" with my then little boy who only knows how to cry and sleep.

Here are some that I was able to catch:

1. The "don't-disturb-me" face.

2. The "what-the-hell-is-she-saying" face.

3. The "eeeww" face.

4. The "mom-there's-something-sticky" face.

5. The "ooh-I-like-that" face.

More to come! :p

Best I've Seen

2009-12-21T13:47:00.001+08:00

One of the best station ID in Philippine television. Touches everybody's heart!

So Sweet ;)

2009-12-16T22:47:00.000+08:00

Goo'-night byby giraffe =P

Simbang Gabi

2009-12-16T11:45:00.001+08:00

Today marks the start of the Filipino tradition of Simbang Gabi or Mass at Dawn. It is when Filipinos wake up early in the morning or before the break of the dawn to go to churches nationwide and attend the mass. It is a nine-day novena devoted for the Blessed Mother. It was believed that if a person is able to complete the whole nine days, he can wish for anything and will sure be granted.

I wonder if I'm just not too religious or if I really don't have a single bit of Holiday spirit in me.

Never in my life have I attended a single mass of the Simbang Gabi. It's not that I don't believe in it. Not that I don't wanna wake up that early or bore myself with the mass. I don't know. Why attend the mass if my heart's not in it? Or if I'll just laugh at some person's dress or some people sleeping in the middle of the homily? That would be sarcasm. Sarcasm inside the church. My dad is the head member of a music ministry that was always invited to play for the mass. He was not a church goer himself but loves playing music for Him. He said, "it does not really matter if you go to church every Sunday or not, what's important is you know how to thank him everytime you wake up, appreciate whatever it is that you received--big or small and finally, trust in Him."

These words are still hanging on my mind.

My hubby himself is not a church goer (I wonder if Tri can make a change), but we both pray or simply say "Thank God" whenever we receive anything, material or not.

Going back to the Simbang Gabi, I heard in the morning news some funny terms used during this season. (To those who can relate or uh--guilty, I know this will sound funny! Enjoy!)

1. The "Simbang-puto bumbong/bibingka".

This term applies to a person who only attends the mass to enjoy the puto bumbong and bibingka together with tea.

2. The "Simbang-BF/GF".

Teenage girls/boys going to church to secretly meet up with their partners and anxioulsy wait for the "Our Father" so they can legally hold hands.

3. The "Simbang-runway".

Go figure. Socialites flaunting their Gucci attires, their Chanel bags, their Fendi belts and shoes.

4. The "Simbang-Politicians."

Uh-hmm. May 2010 elections. No comment =P

The list goes on for those observant peeps...The bottomline is, there is no need to follow a tradition as long as He is in your heart and you have your own way of celebrating his birth. May it be going to church or just simply saying "Thank you for being a part of our lives."

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE!

He's Got a Bad Boy Image

2009-12-15T13:17:00.000+08:00

Don't get me wrong. Babies are so cute. It's actually their weapon of melting even a stone-cold heart (like hubby--hehe!) But, my very own Tri--no matter how cute he is, still has some moments of saying "what ya looking at, punk!"

This is my boy taken when he was only 10 days old. Look at how he frowned while asleep!

And this is him @ 3 months. "I am not a fan of picture-picture...grrr"

And last but not the least,

I swear to God, no Mom would wanna see his very own flipping off! Oh no you di-'nt, child!

The Pill

2009-12-12T12:58:00.002+08:00

       After debating with myself seven hundred and seventy seven times whether or not to switch BC type, after a thourough research and back-reading on a lot of parenting forums, I've finally decided it is time to end my dilemma.

       Today, I am on my second pack of the pill. It isn't that bad as I have imagined. And fortunately, I haven't forgot to take a single pill (who wouldn't?! I'm like a crazy b*t*h I have 2 alarms for it everyday hehe).

       Let's weigh the pro's and con's of switching from depo shots to the pill.

PRO's

My period is back to normal (as opposed to what I've read on some articles which says that it may take 8 months to 2 years) and is very light and less painful.
I feel lighter. (when I was on depo shot, everytime I got a dose, it felt like I've just came from a cheering practice).
I have control on my mood. (Ask my husband about it :) hehehe).
It's like an instant sleeping pill. (The only thing I can remember as soon as I wake up in the morning is me feeling the soft bed then blank).
Less P100 from my pocket. I'm getting it for free!

CON's

I felt dizzy. (Like I wanna throw up or something. During my first pack, I'm feeling dizzy in the morning as if I am preggo and now that I am on my second pack, it usually occurs in the evening.)
Diarrhea-like symptoms. (I had this one on my first pack, too. I do my thing like twice a day. The bad thing about it is that I felt dehydrated.)
Fatigue. (Before, when I was still on depo shots, even after work I can still juggle house chores and taking care of hubby and Tri. Now, if it is bed time, it is bed time!!).
Extra precautions on medications. (I freaked out after taking a type of antibiotic thinking that it will decrease the effectiveness of the pill!)

               This is so far so good.

               But I hope the pill will make me lose weight as well.

               Hmm...

Be Safe on the Road

2009-12-12T11:07:00.001+08:00

Two weeks ago, I witnessed an after-snatching-incident-scene along Aurora Blvd. during my usual morning routine to work. (Yeah, here in the Philippines, crimes are performed any time of the day! ha!).

It happened like this: a guy ran past me, a lady vendor shouting "jackpot! jackpot!" and a girl (who looked like a college student) holding on to her left ear brisk walking with another lady and pointing at the direction behind me.

I thought it was a scene from a movie or a tv series.

If I'll count the number of years that I've been commuting to and from school or to and from work, it'll be 6 years in total. And for those years, luckily, I have not experience those snatching or hold up-ing (THANK YOU, LORD!!!!).

Before I went to college, my Dad gave me some helpful tips to keep safe on the road, which I am still using until now. (Thought I'd like to share it with you, guys.)

1.) While on the road inside the bus or a public jeepney, DO NOT SLEEP.

People who are sleeping inside a public vehicle are most likely the target of those "mandurukot". If I am on a bus, I make sure to sit by the window, so I can have a good view of the road thus I can enjoy the travelling time and not feel sleepy at all. On jeepneys, I prefer to sit right next to the entry way.

2.) If you are not familiar with the place, do not be too obvious that you do not know which direction to go.

My dad even said not to ask directions from local police! Me, I ask directions from fellow commuters or simply look for landmarks.

3.) Do not look rich.

This may sound funny, but yes, this should be considered. Specially on places like Cubao, Pasay, Taft or Recto area. BLING-BLINGS ARE A NO-NO! Look rich and the next day you might wake up in an emtpy room chained or tied up.

4.) Put your bags infront of you.

I always carry a body bag similar to a laptop case. It's always positioned infront me with my hand guarding the zippers/locks.

5.) Have extra bills somewhere in your clothes/body.

When I was still in college (PUP), I always put couple of hundred bucks on my socks or inside my shoes or even on my brassiere. In case someone try to snatch my bag or hold up me (PLEASE LORD, DON'T!), I still have extra cash to get me home or some change to make a phone call.

6.) Look fierce!

Have that look that will scare whoever has bad agenda on you. Look as if you are ready to fight if needed. My dad is a tough guy and taught me to be the same. I am not trained to do martial arts or to do some self defense, but the trick of looking fierce sure is a good one.

I am not saying that this is 100% effective. These are just some safety precautions. Prayer is still the best armour. =)

Mohawk!

2009-12-10T14:52:00.001+08:00

Rummaging through Tri's pictures when I saw this. This was taken back in Feb. Ha! Lovable :)

BOOK REVIEW: Dan Brown's The Lost Symbol

2009-12-06T12:38:00.000+08:00

I admit that I have been a fan of Brown's first two books about the Harvard symbologist, Robert Langdon. Both I enjoyed so much. Both I waited to become movies (which they did eventually).

Just like the first two, I expected that it would be dragging. Dragging enough for me to spare 2-3 hours of my sleep or do a super multi-tasking at work (purchase files, credit files, email correspondent, blogging and reading the novel all at at the same time--haha!) Can't let go of the next chapter! Need to read it, NOW!

Although, the story itself did not intrigue me that much compared to the Da Vinci Code, which startled the Christian community all over the world causing it to be banned from cinemas in Vatican, to be specific.

On this book, Brown focused the story on the American History, the Masonic influence and Noetic Science.

All in all, the book still hooked me. Brown brought me in a puzzle but was still there to guide me to the exit door. Only had to dislike the never ending description of the places. Had to skip those and just google the picture! :)

Rating (10 being the highest), I give the book an 8. Love the suspense parts, hate the meticulous description of scenes. Let the readers use their imagination.

Can't wait for the movie! I've read it will be out on 2012!

Enough of the Drama...:)

2009-12-02T17:38:00.002+08:00

Okay...enough of the crying part.

This is my birthday week and I'm gonna make it different.

My birthday week started earlier than I anticipated. Thanks so much to the love birds, Jelly and Zero4ce who brought me a cake and sang "happy birthday" last Sunday afternoon. I love the cake! Even Tri and hubby enjoyed it :) And for Hephaestion for brightening up my day, as always, making me feel beautiful no matter how big I am! I love you guys. (picture of cake never taken--a BIG blame to hubby! haha)

The day after that (which was my off), hubby asked to go out. We ate lunch then went shopping. Well, I didn't shop for myself--that's a change. I let hubby buy stuff he likes and choose few things for Tri. Tri liked it that we are shopping. He'd been pointing at toys here and there! And boy-- did he made a scene on the mall! (sorry no picture)

The following day, I went to meet my dentist for another check-up. Had couple of fillings and one molar extracted (yyyooouuch!). For some weird reaons, I find this relaxing. Next week, another appointment, another check up and prep for the tinsel teeth (yikes...).

And today at the office I got P60 refund for food from my boss. Money not that big can still help me get home. Still, thanks!

I wonder what tomorrow will be for me.

For now, a bowl of spag and fried chix are waiting for me at home--thanks Dada! Love you. 30 more minutes and shift's over. So excited to go home and cuddle my little Tri.

Another December 2nd

2009-12-02T16:56:00.001+08:00

December 2nd haven't been the same for me.

The last time I felt it was this date was like four years ago.

The last time I heard my Dad sang "happy birthday" to me at seven in the morning. We didn't have cake with candles, no party, no feast.

It's just us--my other four siblings and my parents.

Contented with whatever food my Dad was able to buy for all seven of us.

But I was happy then.

Very happy.

I miss him. My birthday will never be the same without my Dad.

Happy Feet!

2009-11-27T10:51:00.002+08:00

Look at the resemblance! :D Dada's left foot is like photocopied--miniature version.

He Hates Water :(

2009-11-26T11:23:00.001+08:00

This is a very cute sippy cup. Bought it for only P60.00 from Shopwise. Simple trick to make Tri drink water.

Drinking water is one of my major problems with Tri. He doesn't like it because it's tasteless and colorless. He likes lemon iced tea, though. I am a worried mom. He's had a history of UTI (and this is a very rare case for baby boys). So, I tried experimenting.

Unfortunately, during cleaning time, (as a very OC mother) after washing it, I placed it in his electric bottle sterilizer. 5 minutes later, it looked like a goblet and the little froggy inside had escaped!

Ha! Maybe I should give myself a break from being OC.

Happy 18th Month Birthday :)

2009-11-25T11:04:00.003+08:00

Again, Mommy's late in posting!

Whew! Ain't it quick? My baby just turned 18 months old last Nov 23! Time is moving so fast. He may not be growing fast physically (unfortunately got his mom's genes--ha!), but his brain development, specially in speech, had given me a sense of accomplishment.

Aside from calling me Mymy and my hubby Dada, he's named a lot of stuff at home and some basic commands!

Here's a few:

1.) He calls his bestfriend pillow "byby" (baby).

2.) He says "ta bath" if he wants to take a shower or if it's time for his bath.

3.) He says "ka" if he's hungry (his short term for "kain", Filipino term for eat) and another use of this, if he wants to go outside and play (from "halika" or come on).

4.) If you'll ask him "where are you going?", he'll answer promptly "labas" (Filipino word for "outside").

5.) He calls for "de-de" if he wants milk. (if he wants a full 10oz. bottle he makes it plural form "de-des")

6.) He'll scream "pis" if he saw any bug.

7.) If he hears a ringing sound, he'll quickly grab a phone or a remote control and say "papa" while holdng the phone on to his ear.

8.) He's been using the term "that" (in his perfect American accent) to almost everything he laid his eyes on.

9.) He also learned to say "'to ba?" (this one?).

10.) And just yesterday, he learned how to say his nick. I taught him to say "Tri" if asked "what's your name". He's still learning though. His version of his name: "Tub-ri".

A lot of times he's babbling nonsense. But those nonsense or jibberish talking is music to my ear. Can't wait for him to start asking questions :D