Melisse's Domain

February

2012-02-01T12:52:00.002+08:00

It is the first day of the love month ... February <3

This is the latest picture of me and my long time valentine, we are going on fifteen years by May. A little trivia .... since the day we married till now, Christian has not missed a day without saying "i love you" to me, and this is done in multiples all throughout the day.

I have really found my permanent valentine ... forever and a day.

Aching back

2012-02-01T12:50:00.000+08:00

I wake everyday with an aching back that reaches all the way up to my neck. It really bothers me and sometimes i have to take the full day off from teaching because of it. I am currently taking pain reliever pills to help me get by, but i really don't want to get my system used to taking medicines every time the pain becomes unbearable.

Last night, i slept in my daughter's bed because Christian was not coming home so i decided to sleep in their room. I was a bit surprised that i did not have that pain i regularly get when i wake up in the morning. I was thinking maybe it was because i was lying down on a different mattress that conformed to my body. I think if i get myself a comfortable mattress like a memory foam mattress it would surely solve my aching body's dilemna that has long been hounding me.

The greeting "sweet dreams" can soon be felt as soon as i get myself a good nights sleep and a refreshing wake up.

Different Crowd

2012-02-01T12:25:00.002+08:00

Bea is excited with her school, now that she is in high school she is now mingling with different kinds of people and i understand her excitement with the new faces she sees everyday. Back in her old school, they only had a few classmates which i think is a god way to start because the teachers really get to know the strengths and weaknesses of every student and not be drowned in a sea of faces. This is really quite a big change for her.

I was there last Christmas farewell party in their school and i too was surprised by the fashion the high school kids have nowadays, not that i am saying it is unbecoming of their age but that it is different from when i was a teenager (so many, many, many years ago .. lol!) some of the girls were wearing tights and paired with equestrian boots and long polo as their tops. They have their hair all curly and all in one side and sashayed through the corridors as if they were on a ramp. The boys on the other hand were quite laid back, they had oversized shirts, with oversized (lol!) trousers that is covering only half of their back side. They had their hair up in gel and walked the corridors in a weird way. I guess i have really been outdated so much, so i might as well brace myself for the coming fashion, especially that i have a teenager in the house.

Achievement

2012-01-24T17:09:00.003+08:00

Celebrated the birthday of my grandmother, Daisy Hontiveros Avellana who is also our National Artist for Theater ... and she is now ninety five years old!

When we sang her a birthday song she said, "How old am i?", we said "La, you are now 95."
She said "Boy, i am old." and smiled proudly.

Yes, there is really so much to be proud about ... she has been living a rich life, filled with achievement, accolades, fulfilled dreams and success. She is very loved by her children, in-laws and especially her grand and great grandchildren.

We love you, Lola Daisy, Happy 95th birthday! :)

Me and my Lola :)

My Time

2012-01-24T17:02:00.002+08:00

I always go to the mall to buy the kids clothes and what-have-yous and come to think of it i don't do much shopping for myself, specifically for clothes. I have been stuck in the rut with my wardrobe that i actually did not even think of updating my look. But, yesterday while walking along the Womens Clothing section, i found some interesting pieces that i actually want to own. Finally, something for myself, so i hurriedly tried a few things and before i knew it i had a handful with me and was at the cashier.

I guess i am giving in this time, my turn.

I know it will be a long time again before i go and buy myself some things again, so i guess this is worth the giving in.

2012

2012-01-19T13:59:00.002+08:00

2012 was greeted with fireworks and the love and warmth of family. This is what is important and what counts above all. My family has always and will always be my constant unhappiness and when i am with them everything feels alright.

This is one of our first moments as we welcome the new year :)

Back Ache

2012-01-17T18:01:00.003+08:00

I have a tremendous back pain, and must as i hate to admit it, it really bothering me. I am trying so hard to stand up straight to maybe straighten it as a form of exercise, but the pain is unbearable. Christian last night massaged it with liniment, and it relieved me for some time, enough for me to get some sleep, but like i said it was temporary.

I don't know if it caused by my posture or i woke up on the wrong side of the bed.

Wish the pain will go away really soon.

Great Finds

2012-01-17T17:44:00.002+08:00

I just love what i find on the internet whenever i search and browse through different sites. The things you can see are actually endless. I have been able to join a lot of online blog contests and i sometimes am lucky enough to win. My usual winnings are girly stuff, like make up, lotion and knick knacks, i yearn for the day when i get some more cool stuff like some barnes & noble coupons, that would really be a great find!

There is actually a site where they give away a lot of things when you answer a short survey, i haven't actually participated in any, but maybe i will as soon as i get the time to do it.

I heart the internet, there are a lot of cool FREE stuff just waiting for the picking!

Donations

2011-12-20T21:37:00.003+08:00

If you have anything to share for the victims of Typhoon Sendong, who at this writing has claimed 947 lives and 49 missing. This is just too much.

I was just telling Christian that one person (or just one number) from the total lives lost is already a major impact to one family, so i cannot imagine the anguish everyone is feeling there.

Unimaginable.

The only thing we can do to help is to pray for them, for the lost lives and for the survivors that they can stand up from this nightmare. If you have any donations in cash or in kind there are now ways to send them with no cost at your part. Air 21 and LBC courier service has announced that they will deliver your donations free of charge to the victims of Sendong. This is great way to help, and i commend these two comapnies.

Another is Shell gas, it has announced a price increase today but said that prices in the south area will remain unchanged to help our bothers in Cagayan de Oro in their own way.

Here is LBC's announcement on facebook.

Help On The Way

2011-12-20T21:24:00.002+08:00

I marvel at how we go out and try and help each other, casting away everything we have planned weeks before if a tragedy hits. A lot of people volunteered to go to Cagayan de Oro and help in any way they can. I heard the news of sending air ambulance service for the affected people that cannot be reached by land and even on boats because of the difficult path.

No matter if sometimes we do not agree politically, religiously or our views are different from each other, all that is set aside and we all join our hands to help each other in this time of crisis.

I am proud to be a Filipino, and how we help each other in any little way we can.

Blessing

2011-12-20T12:10:00.002+08:00

Just heard the news update today on the aftermath of typhoon Sendong .... it is so disheartening.

I cannot imagine the pain my fellowmen are feeling right now while i sit comfortably in our house in front of my laptop ... boy, am i so blessed ... and yet i still have the nerve to feel sad sometimes during the day.

I do not deserve to be sad ... i have been so blessed with even the simplest things. The mere fact that He gives me a chance to live for one more day is already a big blessing that we do not appreciate and take for granted.

We have the gift of life ... let us be happy and be thankful ... for He is good.

Wishing you all a Merry, Happy and Blessed Christmas!

Relocated

2011-12-20T10:30:00.003+08:00

My sister called me yesterday and told me their plans to transfer to the condominium in front of their house while they have there ground floor renovated. They were able to ask the administration of the condo to let them stay for two months while construction in their house is going on.

I will be accompany my sister this afternoon to look at basement floor tiles, marble tiles and wall tiles that they will be using next week. She is an interior designer but was not able to practice professionally, but i know she will effortlessly choose the best kinds to make their renovation a success.

Wish we could renovate our house as well ... but we have to get our own house first, lol!

Days

2011-12-20T10:24:00.002+08:00

I can hardly feel the Christmas spirit and still faced with the reality that Christmas is coming in just five days. I started Christmas shopping only yesterday, and it was exhausting.

This is the first year we will be having Christmas without my papa .... it is going to be a totally different one.

I hope i find my Christmas spirit really soon, for the kids sake.

Techie Upgrade

2011-12-20T10:11:00.002+08:00

Finally, after constant hints with the hubby that i need a scanner for my books that i use in my teaching class, he said, "Yes!"

I was so excited that i scoured the internet for a good scanner and found out there are actually a lot of things to consider in buying one. There are specifications to consider, i have to check my laptop if it can accommodate such scanner. I have looked at a few scanner software to see if they offer the features that i specifically need. I just need something that can effortlessly scan pages of my book and convert them to pdf files. Scan old photographs to make them digital because most of my pictures from way way back are the ones that had negatives.

I recently found out that there are actually negative scanners that converts your negatives into jpeg files, i want one! Heheheh!

December

2011-12-06T18:00:00.001+08:00

December is really hear ... Christmas!!!

I can still remember last Christmas all so clear, and now another one is fast approaching. I have to admit the Christmas season has not yet kicked in for me especially that this will be our first Christmas without my papa.

It is going to be very different. I pray that we all find the strength we need to get by this supposed joyous event. It will be hard, since we miss him so much.

What If

2011-12-06T17:35:00.002+08:00

Got my complimentary morning newspaper from Jollibee again, love it when i get to read the news and makes it more sweeter because its free. Tee hee!

One of the section i like looking at aside from the Lifestyle section are the classified section, i always imagine myself scouting for a job and search for hotel and Lodging Jobs available. When i spot a nice one i imagine myself going through the interview process. Sometimes i think about what would have happened if i did pursue my career in the hotel and restaurant business instead of deciding to be a stay at home mom.

I would not replace my being at home with the kids for anything, i just imagine for fun, lol!

Yearly

2011-12-06T15:42:00.003+08:00

I have to have a lot of things done before the year ends, so i actually made out a long list o the things to do. I have a lot of loose ends that needs to be finalized this month to ensure a good 2012. The list covers everything, even to schedule the yearly cleaning of our wedding bands that we do every December so when January comes it is clean and sparkly. In between the list of things are the much needed dentist appointments for the kids oral prophylaxis.I am just in a fix so as to when to schedule it, before or after the parties. I have yet to sit down and think about this. Will update you as soon as i have made the appointment to really get the final date.

Research

2011-11-25T15:23:00.003+08:00

Bea has a lot of assignments that require searching the internet for the needed information. I wonder how would the homework be able to finish if not for the mighty help of the internet. You can really check on anything you may think of, i recently was looking at military challenge coins and was really surprised to know more about it in less than five minutes in front of the computer.

Last night's hot search was about the Advent wreath, what it is and what the color of the candles mean,

I just heart the internet!

Scary No More

2011-10-31T19:35:00.005+08:00

Look at the happy faces of my kiddies while visiting their grandmother's grave (Christian's mama who passed away more than 20 years ago) they never met her but i would tell them stories about her, the ones Christian would share with me. They say Sam looks like his mom and Sam is really is interested to see pictures of her grandmother to see for herself.

The trip to the cemetery was a pleasant one as there was not much people yet and it was not so sunny so it was not that hot. We parked the car a few meters from the cemetery and had a quick lunch before we walked all the way.

The kids had a good experience because we prayed over there, lit some candles and offered flowers and prayers.

Holidays

2011-10-31T19:15:00.002+08:00

Now that Halloween is almost over, what comes next??

One of my favorite time of the year ...Christmas!

I was at the mall this morning and was greeted by the oh so familiar Christmas tunes, the glass window displays were decked with tress and colorful lights and of course the card racks were laden with holiday cards instead of the usual birthday cards.

Christmas is in the air ... i can already smell it!

I wonder who will gift me a fruit cake this year, this is my favorite treat and no one in the family likes it but me .. all for me.

Cemetery Goods

2011-10-31T19:02:00.007+08:00

This is the first time the kids won't be doing their annual trick or treat event, instead we went and visited Christian's mama at the cemetery a few days before All Soul's Day to beat the traffic and the crowd.

I was so surprised to see that inside the cemetery there are a lot of food stalls and kiosks that sell different things and with them around you hardly feel scared being surrounded by the dead, lol!

There even was a stall there that was selling different kinds of wigs and they were tapping the halloween market.

People can really be enterprising, lol!

Ahoy There

2011-10-26T17:10:00.004+08:00

The kids enjoyed the cruise! It is their first time to ride a boat and i am so happy that no one complained of dizziness or was sea sick. They had a great time, and so did we. The food was suprisingly good, i had no expectations for it because all i really wanted was for the kids to experience the sunset while sailing, so being served good food really is a icing on the cake.

Bea and Sam took turns taking pictures of the breathtaking sunset and the lovely view. Vin had a great time pointing at jumping fishes.

We actually had to wait for a month to get this scheduled date because i really wanted the upper deck section and when i called to reserve it was already fully booked and all that was available was the lower deck seats, so i patiently waited for the upper deck availability which took more than a month from my reservation.

It was really worth the wait.

We will surely make this a regular weekend thing and next time i will let the girls bring their own cameras so they can capture anything they like.

Loved it!

Big Day

2011-10-26T16:33:00.003+08:00

It is coming ... the special day of my brother is in a month, and i am still thinking on what to give him. He actually has everything and finding something he will really use is leaving me bonkers. I tinkering on getting personal birthday gifts for him that i am sure he would love to keep. He will start on a new job next week and i am quite sure he would love to get something that is personal that he would like to place on his table or office wall. I am getting pretty excited just thinking of the possibilities of a present for him. Funny, but when i started writing this i was a bit clueless but as i was typing and thinking it suddenly became crystal clear. Yey!

Cruisin

2011-10-20T19:45:00.002+08:00

We are going on a dinner cruise on Sunday!

I booked five tickets for us last month and had our cruise scheduled on the 23rd. The girl i spoke to said the cruise would last for an hour and a half of smooth sailing and i was able to book us on the top deck so the kids can enjoy the salty air. I also asked her what the best sailing time would be if we want to catch the sunset, she said 4:30 pm is the best, so 4:30 it is. We have to be there by 4:00 to secure our table. I really hope the kids enjoy this experience, this being their first boat ride.

Swimming Sideline

2011-10-20T19:38:00.003+08:00

My kids just love to swim ... i wonder why suddenly i have lost the penchant on swimming. I used to like to swim, but since i started having kids i was no longer keen on going swimming. I sometimes think is it because i am more prone to feeling cold than when i was younger, then that could easily be solved by installing a rheem heat pump to ensure the right temperature for me. I also think is it because this time around i have to lug more towels, shampoo, soap and wet bathing suits after i shower them after the swim. I think i am more inclined to think it is because of the latter ... lol!

I think i would rather just sit by the shade and wait for them to finish so i can shower them without thinking of showering myself. Mommy duties really can take a toll even with one of your favorite childhood activity ... now i enjoy swimming more when i see my children smile and laugh while they swim.

Beautiful

2011-10-20T19:29:00.003+08:00

Loved the colors in their school. I attended their First Friday mass for the first time and i was almost teary eyed when they sang a song complete with hand actions, it was beautiful.

Transcripts

2011-10-20T19:07:00.002+08:00

Bea and Sam's school registrar requested for the original copy of the girl's past school years transcript of records. The principal from their old school showed it to me and i thought it would be nice if i had a copy of it to document their grades in grade school. I am looking for shop that does document imaging so i can have it scanned and saved on a flash drive.

I will go ask tonight from the nearby internet cafe if they have one, if not i will have to go the mall tomorrow morning before Bea hands it over to her registrar.

Looking at their grades from grade one to the present shows how good and consistent students they were. They were really good so it was no surprised that Bea graduated top of her batch and got the valedictorian medal.

I hope these good grades continue till high school and college, keeping my fingers crossed.

Techie Request

2011-10-20T19:00:00.002+08:00

My sister will be going to Japan for a convention and she asked me if i wanted something. I thought really fast and the first thing that came to my head was to ask for somel ipod nano headphones that was big in Japan. She quickly said yes and just asked for a particular color i wanted, i said any dark colored headphone would do, not really too picky, especially if its for free .. tee hee!

She will be leaving in three days and be back after two days ... so five days to wait for my request, so excited!

Half-Way

2011-10-10T15:23:00.002+08:00

I am now half-way done with my tests.

Exams are scheduled on the 20th ... but i am half way done as early as now. Yey!

I am challenging myself to finish everything this week .... can i do it!

Let's see ...

1000th

2011-10-10T15:13:00.002+08:00

I am celebrating!

It's my 1000th post!

I cannot believe that time has flown ... i was reading through my old posts and it was like feeling everything all over again. I marvel at the thought that i can document just about anything, an online diary complete with pictures and even comments from my readers.

I just love how the internet has evolved, knowing that everything you want to know about are all available with just a few strokes on the keyboard.

I am presently looking for images to use for my Science tests for the grade 1 and 2. And while a window is open i still have a couple open windows like my query about stell drum from drumsofsteel.com and Bea's research on parasites. I love my ability to multi-task without any effort.

I will celebrate again when i reach my 2000th post ... excited to fill the blog once again with a lot of memories, happenings and activities.

Riveting

2011-09-30T21:37:00.002+08:00

These are the before and after images at Roxas Boulevard.

The swimming pool area and Spirals Restaurant at Hotel Sofitel. Looking at it especially the one of Spiral's looked like looking at Titanic pictures, thay looked dreary and eerie at the same time.

Another storm is on the way this weekend ... i hope it does not do as much damage.

Take care everyone.

Camping

2011-09-29T19:19:00.004+08:00

Vin will be having his first camping trip next month!

I am so excited for him!

Christian will be joining a camping reunion and they are inviting the member's kids to join in the fun too, so Vin is really looking forward to this. Christian has been telling Vin stories of what it was like to go camping and actually roughing it up. He told him how he pitched his own tent, cook using firewood and cutting trees with his utility knife and actually sleeping in the dark. The last part was not Vin's favorite ... hahaha!

I wonder how he will react knowing that they are not allowed to bring any electrical gadgets like gameboys, psp and laptops ... tee hee!

Shortened

2011-09-21T15:25:00.003+08:00

Vin has been going to my school after his class for three days now, and i read on his diary that he will have shortened schedule again tomorrow. His usual class is from 7:00am to 2:00pm, but now that they have their intramurals he is having shortened schedule from 7:00am till 10:00 am ... and that means i am still in my school teaching .... so there is no choice but for him to stay with me and wait till i finish my classes.

My students just love itwhen Vin is joining their class, but of course that does not give them a go signal to make noise ... hahaha ... business is business. Tee hee!

Love it

2011-09-21T15:19:00.002+08:00

I was going through sports shop to look for cool stuff for Christian's bowling tournament that will start next month and saw the large selection of tourmaster gear and accessories. It had such good style and is versatile to wear by just anyone, i know Christian would look dashing in them.

I was able to buy shoes though, with a written agreement from the manager that if the size does not fit Christian they would happily change it to the size we need, and even change of style if he does not like what i chose for him .. i doubt it though, we usually have the same taste in everything.

I have yet to see what to give Sam for her birthday ... but i know i won't find it in a sports shop ... an anime shop maybe .. hahahha!

Internet Cafe

2011-09-21T15:11:00.002+08:00

A client of mine from the US texted me that she needed an impromptu invitation. She has been a long time client of mine so i had to heed her distress call, turns out she found out her sister's supplier suddenly went awol so she thought of me to make her sister one ... but the catch is the party is on one week! I was at the mall at the time she texted since i was looking for a gift for Sam's eleventh birthday .... i quickly snuck into an internet cafe and got myself a computer in no time. The area where the gaming computers were was full, good thing there was a section for those who will just surf and not join the online games, so i was able to get a seat without having to wait. I finished her invite in less than 20 mins and we chatted about it, so i was able to send her the final ready for printing file within the hour.

I just love how the internet connects you real time :)

Birthday

2011-09-08T19:07:00.002+08:00

It's Mama Mary's feastday!

Our school celebrated it by hearing mass this morning and listening to a beautiful homily. I always feel good whenever i hear a nice homily and i come out of the mass feeling refreshed and enlightened.

Happy Birthday Mama Mary!

Water Woes

2011-09-08T19:00:00.003+08:00

Our water bill skyrocketed.

I thought it was because of the numerous times the kids take a shower because of the heat, but after looking at our water tank on the rooftop ... i discovered a leak. Uh-oh.

I then thought of all the wasted water that has been happening and i was not even aware of it. I was always monitoring our electric consumption and took for granted our water usage since i know it was always minimal. Christian said we have to buy a lever since that is where the leak started then a pipe that connects to the water pump.

I will be looking at various kinds tomorrow to fix this, searched the net for some items and saw a lot of plastic hoses and braided metal hose, since i am thumbs when it comes to these i will have to ask Christian about it and i will buy them over the weekend. I really feel bad for all the wasted water especially since the news always talks about water shortage in some areas.

Ber-ry Close

2011-08-31T15:01:00.002+08:00

Tomorrow marks the start of the "BER" months.

Yipee!

Just the sound of the month ending with a "ber" makes me happy end excited. So many things to look forward to actually.

First on the list is Sam's 11th birthday on SeptemBER 22! I have her gift ready since July, talk about planning ahead ... it is kinda costly so i made sure to buy it while i still had money for it, hehehe!

Next is Halloween that my kiddies love, no matter that my girls are entering their tweens .. they still love to dress up!

December of course ... not only is it the happiest month of the year but it has the longest holidays ... hahahah!

I am so excited ... BER starts tomorrow!

Promising

2011-08-31T14:29:00.003+08:00

My sister-in-law called me yesterday and was letting me know of the present vacancies they have in their office. She is really pushing that we work in a same office, no worries about having the same surname because she is married to my brother and of course i changed my maiden name to my married name so we would seem not related at all. There are a lot of companies who do not allow relatives to work together to make sure that there will be no hanky panky since we are all blood related.

She told me there are interesting openings at the Front Desk department, like Help Desk Specialist Jobs Receptionists and even Executive Assistants.

I am actually tinkering on the idea, but of course i can't just abandon my teaching and leave the students mid year ... hehehe! It just nice to think about the different promises one career can take you.

I love teaching, but it is really hard work. lol!

Vacay

2011-08-30T23:34:00.002+08:00

Had a four day holiday!

I feel so recharged ... it was just four days but it came at the most best time. We just finished exams and i got my kids report cards as well.

Had a great time unwinding and relaxing with the family.

It was just bliss.

Shopping Police

2011-08-30T23:26:00.002+08:00

Who is your shopping police?

Some people it could be their moms ... husbands ... but for me it has got to be the barcode scanner, hehehe!

I am eyeing on an item then i can't decide from which of the two kinds i like and i get my shopping best friend to decide for me. I just point and shoot and suddenly a decision is made, tee hee!

I wish i could have my own though and not rely on the shop's scanners, that way i can have one handy in my purse when the need arises.

I love shopping ... but i love keeping things in check ... reality check!

1st Quarter

2011-08-19T14:23:00.002+08:00

1st quarter is officially over today.

We wrapped up the last day of exams this morning and i have in my possession tons of text papers to check. I can't believe it took me hours to make a test and only minutes for the kids to answer and pass it ... hahaha!

I looked at some of the answers and happy that they might just ace the exams, and that makes me one fulfilled teacher. Yey!

Happy Errand

2011-08-19T14:20:00.002+08:00

One of the favorite errands my kids and i like to do is to do the groceries. There is actually a schedule on who gets to push the cart first and who will be in charge of getting the groceries from the shelves. They love checking the prices on the cordless barcode scanner that is around the supermarket to help the shoppers keep to their budget. Tee hee!

Vin would run to it and scan all the groceries and run back to me to give me a full report on how much each item costs. They love the idea that i actually have a reaction everytime they say the price considering that they all scanned thin and thick black lines. I always want to stick to our budget but it still shoots up as soon as we pass the ice cream and snack aisles. Hahaha!

It is a weekend again, and that means grocery shopping is next!

Happy Errand

2011-08-19T14:20:00.001+08:00

Natal Day

2011-08-16T22:53:00.005+08:00

This is it!

I am now officially 42 years old!

I can hardly believe it, sounds super old ... hahaha!

Christian has been telling me if i want anything for my birthday. Truthfully, i did not have anything in mind when he asked me last night. I actually don't need anything for myself. I am content with what i have actually.

But looking around the house, the kitchen to be specific .... i guess i would appreciate some top of the line electric grills since our family jusy loves grilled food. This is one appliance that i have more use of rather than the microwave.

I wonder what i will get ... the day is still not over :)

Diamond is Forever

2011-07-17T10:12:00.005+08:00

I am now thinking of having a diamond peel.

I always see this service being offered at my facial salon, but i never really thought if having it done. I made some online searches and it look good, it is non invasive and results are seen after the first treatment.

I got some phone numbers that i will be calling and see if i can squeeze myself an appointment this afternoon .... yup i mean business .. hahaha!

When Monday starts, i will not be free till Saturday, which happens to be Christian's birthday! Yey! Another reason to look forward to the weekend!

Signal Woes

2011-07-17T09:59:00.002+08:00

My sister and i were looking at some potential houses here in Paranaque for them to move into next month. We were able to see a lot, and i mean a lot. We would go around street after street of a particular village and would go down and have a look at the units. There was actually a house that stood out among the rest but there was one setback ... the signal of my sisters phone was really low and she said this could be a major reason for them not take the house. I know where she is coming from, being attached to my cellphone as well for messages and calls from my clients and of course Chrisitian.

We found out that there are actually cell booster home units available to increase the signal of your cell phone. Wow!

Everything is really possible nowaday ... so the house is back on the top of the list.

Enduring

2011-07-17T09:54:00.002+08:00

After the crazy week, i felt i needed a break.

I am not much into pampering myself, but i felt the need to do so after the long week. I had a facial last Friday night to prepare me to a good weekend. I usually am not relaxed during a facial like other women, i find the pricking procedure really painful. But if that is what is needed to cleanse my face deeper then i endure it for a few minutes.

But maybe because of the two week happenings i actually did not feel as hurt as before, it was like my body succumbed to the torture and let it all happen, maybe i was too tired to feel it. I wonder if that will be the case for me to not feel the pricking if that was actually a blessing in disguise. Tee hee.

First Exam Cramming

2011-07-17T09:42:00.004+08:00

Last week was a very busy week. We had our very first round of examinations and we had to fit in eight subjects in two days. This year i am teaching Science to grades one to four, Computer to grades one to six and TLE grades four to six. Imagine the exams i have to prepare for my classes. It was truly a toxic activity.

I made a record for myself by creating ten different tests in just one day! I usually make a maximum of four in a day, but because of the recent happening the other week i found it impossible to make them ahead of time, so there i was crunch time moment, only a day before the tests i was still typing them.

But, bottom line is ... i did it! Whew.

Now, i have time to look at my other online routine like checking on my multiply site, readings at www.wholesaleinsurance.net for the kind we really need, facebook activity and my neglected email.

The next exams will be in August (yup, just a month away) i promise to start early and will never cram again .... keeping my fingers crossed.

Progress

2011-07-17T09:29:00.003+08:00

I have a grade one student who has a walking disability since birth. She is a very happy little girl despite what she is going through. I know that it can be really tough for a little girl not o be able to run and play around like her classmates but i have never seen her face look sad at any time. Every time i would call her she would flash me a great smile and i actually forget that she is not like the others in terms of capabilities. She attends school three times a week, while two days of the week she undergoes therapy.

I got surprised last week when she was able to stand up, she was of course holding on her desk and her bag, i saw that she was wearing donjoy hinged knee brace to steady her. I cannot forget how her face beamed with joy that she could stand up, she said "Teacher, can you get my book?" and she was standing straight for me to see.

I am so proud of her, most especially proud of how she is handling this. Her parents give her all the love they can give and that explains why she always look happy and content with all that she has.

Love can really make a huge difference.

Better Safe

2011-07-13T16:27:00.002+08:00

The saying 'better safe than sorry' really holds water in my book. That is why when my friend was asking me about how to go about her slimming down i told her there is no other way but to make sure she drinks only safe diet pills and not rely on ads alone. No crash diets for me too. I always believed that gradual slimming down will make sure there will be no drastic effect on her body. I will help her find good restaurants to aid her in her quest for a better and slim body now that there are a lot of fat-free food available on the menus.

Here is hoping we can make things happen safely.

Trying My Lucky Streak

2011-06-21T17:20:00.002+08:00

Since i won last month in the bonding moments photo contest, then with Vin and Nut's photo entry last week ... i can't help and try my luck again. I sure have a winning streak and i really want to milk it as far as it can go .. hahaha!

I joined a photo contest again for Father's Day celebration, and will know the results within the week. I saw the other entries online and they are great shots too. Keeping my fingers crossed.

Lots of luck ... to me ... lol!

Check Up

2011-06-21T17:08:00.004+08:00

Brought Vin for his annual check up last weekend and his pediatrician was really surprised on how he has grown. He may not have put on much weight but he has exceeded the average height for his age. I marveled at how he can reach many things lately, but honestly i did not notice his growth spurt if not for this check up.

While waiting for our turn i was talking to a kind lady who shared her story about her two teenage boys that he used to accompany during pedia visits. She said nowadays she accompanies them to check up but this time for drug rehab treatment, a far cry from her usual doctor visits. I marvelled at how she is handling it and how proud she is of her sons who i heard are doing well with the program they are in.

I really believe that nothing is impossible in the eyes of a mother when it comes to her children .. there is always hope and a promise of good things.

Father's Day

2011-06-21T16:40:00.003+08:00

I have everything i really need .... what more can i ask for?

Happy Father's Day to Christian, a hands on father to the three kiddies. I cannot imagine going through parenting without you by my side.

Good job!

Winner

2011-06-21T16:25:00.004+08:00

The partners won!

I got a registered mail notifying me that Vin and Choconut made it to the magical five winners. I was super happy! I sent my email hoping that it gets a chance and despite the volume of those who joined we still won! Yey, Vin and Nutty!

I will be leaving in a bit to meet up with my cousin who will go to the mall after he finishes his errands ranging from ordering dinner, buy phenphedrine, taking the dog to the vet and do a weekly grocery. We all live a busy life, and you really have to schedule some time to bond or else you will can get easily lost in the frenzy of things.

Eleven

2011-06-21T16:16:00.003+08:00

Just found great deals on laptops and with the ever increasing prices nowadays finding a bargain is really something to get excited about, hahah! Cheap thrill if you may say.

Bea has a laptop as her gift last year and Sam has been giving me hints that she wants one too for her birthday. Her birthday is still in September but she is hoping to get a laptop as she turns eleven ... while Bea got hers when she turned twelve.

I really have to think things through here ... if we will talk about responsible in taking care of a gadget then Sam passes that criteria. She is actually the one taking care of Bea's laptop especially if she was the last one who used it.

I will see how things go and maybe we can have a happy and excited laptop toting eleven year old in September.

First Mass

2011-06-10T21:19:00.002+08:00

Today we had our very first official mass to celebrate the opening of this school year. Followed by the mass, we had our Parents meeting and orientation. It was well attended and this just means that we are off to a good start.

Next week, regular school hours and classes begin as well. I have a full shift from 7:00 am all the way to 2:00 pm.

Excited for a new year!

Uniform

2011-06-10T21:10:00.002+08:00

My co-teachers and i have been contemplating on what uniform to don this school year. We have a lot of things to consider in choosing our uniforms. First the color, comfort and of course the professional look of being teachers. The cost of course follows, especially that everyone is on a tight budget these days. Hospitals on the other hand do not have any problems when it comes to uniforms, especially that there are a lot of color schemes to choose from, a good example are the versatile looking cherokee workwear that is becoming popular. I love scrubs, they are so comfortable and easy to wear, plus so much room to move around and you do not feel constricted to move and do your business.

I wonder how teachers would look in comfy scrubs ... cool!

Nut and Vin

2011-06-10T13:32:00.002+08:00

There is an ongoing photo contest that requires a participant to send a picture of your favorite pet ... trying my luck and sent these photos. You think we have a chance? Hope so.

This actually my second try to join a photo contest this year .. the first one was last month and we bagged a prize for it, so i am really hoping we win again.

When they were younger i would always join contests but lately i don't have time to do so ... and now here i am again getting into the groove of it.

Will keep you posted by tomorrow if we do win it.

Keeping my fingers crossed.

Cars Old And New

2011-06-10T12:29:00.005+08:00

I have never been a fan of cars. I actually have a running joke that i can only recognize a volkswagon nothing more. I went to my sister's carshow where they sponsored a booth for their trucking car carrier business and i have to say i was amazed with the cars. So here i am writing and taking back my word that i would not be a fan .. hahaha! There even was a car there that belonged in the 1916 era .. wow! I wonder if these cars were placed and stored in a metal building to ensure that they will not be damaged by anything. I love the roomy feeling of the vintage cars, so much headroom. There also were cars that had large speakers all over the place and would really rock the street literally. Christian had a great time taking photos of the cars while the kids and i were walking along the exhibit. It was a great experience for the kids and of course for the hubby.

We Won

2011-05-28T12:46:00.003+08:00

This was the contest mechanics:

Participants may email their family bonding photo on a certain event, holiday, outing or any gathering.

CRITERIA FOR JUDGING

Impact 30% - will be judged on how the photo stands out from the rest of the entries.
Form 20% - wittiness of the one-line explanation of why the participant should win.
Photo Theme 50% - the occasion embodied on the picture is clear.

-----

Got a call a few minutes ago and said ... we won! :)

Our prize ... four movie tickets to a special screening of Kung Fu Panda 2!

We will watch tomorrow at 5:00 pm, Sunday.

Digital Power

2011-05-28T12:23:00.003+08:00

This is my current profile picture at facebook ... love the lighting! I actually shifted a few times to get the correct shadow and lighting. This is actually taken with no flash so this is all natural lighting. I have somehow tinkered on mastering outdoor lighting to make me able to shoot perfect pictures inside and outside locations. I just love my digital camera since i can see the shots right away not unlike before when i belonged to the pre-digital stage where i had to finish my roll of film first and have them developed before i can see the shots. Another plus is this time it is not costly since we can print our own pictures using our printers at home ... that's digital power!

Master For A Day

2011-05-27T11:38:00.003+08:00

Took the kids to experience a Cosplay Maid Cafe and to be called "masters" for an afternoon. Brought them to Meidolls Cafe in Cainta, Rizal, and this is the very first Maid Cafe in the Philippines. The waitresses wore maid uniforms and would greet you with a smile and song every time they see you. They even put alcogel (hand sanitizer) on everyone before you eat to make sure you are clean to handle food. They even have a power chant when they serve your food to add more flavor to it, haha!

While we were eating they even danced and sang for us and to our surprise they pulled Bea, Che (Sam and Vin quickly stood up to hide behind my back) to join their dance.

The kids had a great time and have been asking me to go back there again. It is quite far from where we are so i guess it will have to wait. The food was just ordinary ... but the novelty of the cafe is what you came for and that we got.

Speed It Up

2011-05-27T11:30:00.002+08:00

I love long hair!

But are you wondering why i am sporting pixie hairstyle for almost a year? It was a highlight/rebond treatment that went bad that made me cut my tresses last year. I still have not had the chance to grow it all out. I feel my hair grows so slow or am i just impatient. I am thinking of getting into a hair loss treatment program to have my hair back to its shiny form. I miss brushing my long red colored hair. I sometimes look at my facebook profile pictures with me with my long hair and really wish that i can have that again.

How i wish i could turn back the hands of time and not have my highlights and rebond on the same day. I miss my hair.

Another Win

2011-05-27T11:04:00.005+08:00

He did it again!

Mosley is such a great fighter and a gentleman ... but he was no match to Pacquiao's speed and and strength. I remember a lot of stories about Manny when he was just starting out and how we was able to rise from to fame and power. Looking at his pictures you would not think that he would make ut this far. He was not heavily built and lacked muscles needed to sustain the punches, but looking at him now during the weigh-in you get to realize that you can do whatever you want if you put yourself into it. Inspired by that, here i am now reading on some power doses like hemo rage black to help speed up building a better body. I have a lot to show Christian when he gets home .... hahahha, you didn't think it was for me, i want my man lean and mean ... lol!

Supermark Chatter

2011-05-27T10:57:00.002+08:00

The supermarket lines nowadays are getting longer (the physical line and the waiting time) no matter how many counters are open there still is a long queue. What i do is sometimes i ask Christian to fall in line with the filled up cart and while waiting for our turn i leisurely look around the aisles and see what i have forgotten, and i usually end up adding chips and unnecessary treats. Hahahah! I sometimes brave the long wait and have a chance to pick up some magazines on the rack or sometimes eavesdrop on other people's conversation .. and believe me topics really vary from the best kindergarten school around the area to the weight loss pills that work down to the good kind of cable tv. It's like listening to radio and switching dials every so often.

I love doing the grocery ... it's the line that bugs me ... and my wallet ... tee hee!

Royal Wedding

2011-04-29T19:34:00.004+08:00

They did it!

The royal couple just entered the Buckingham Palace after a beautiful horse drawn carriage procession. It was lovely.

The crowd in England (myself included, here in the house) are all patiently waiting for the new couple to appear and wave from the balcony.

Their wedding was perfect!

Reading Time

2011-04-29T18:50:00.002+08:00

As i was reading reviews on hgh supplements for comparison i chanced upon ebooks of my favorite reads. Twilight series! Yup, i am still an Edward, Bella and Jacob fanatic. I was very lucky to download the books for free, yipee!

What makes my reading time more exciting is a got the unfinished copy of Stephenie Meyer's Midnight Sun which is the exact happening from the first Twilight book only this time the book is being written from Edward's point of view. I was able to read a few pages while i was downloading it and i love it!

I am sure i will be having a lot of girly giggles while i read it. Tee hee!

I can't wait to get hold of my me time to curl up on the sofa and read.

Fourteen Years

2011-04-27T16:38:00.002+08:00

It's our wedding anniversary next month ... fourteen years!

Sound really long right? But i still remember my wedding day as if it happened just last week. I sure have a lot of memories in my memory vault for these past years and they are all treasured. Christian has been asking me what i would like for this special day ... my usual answer is, "Surprise me ..." hahaha! But if he can only hear my voice inside me it would say, buy gold! Tee hee!

I love gold jewelry .. especially bracelets with tons of cute charms. I sure would like to get identical ones for Bea and Sam so we would all look cute and maybe we can use it as a family bracelet.

I wonder what surprise awaits me on our special day!

Confirmed

2011-04-27T16:02:00.003+08:00

At the age of thirteen, Bea received the rites of confirmation. She was confirmed last Sunday at Villa San Miguel Church in Malacanang, the very church where Christian and i were also confirmed before we got married. We both were not confirmed during our school years just like the other people with Bea during this day. Bea was the only young one there to receive confirmation, all the others were doing this for a church requirement before you can get married. Bea's school did not have confirmation that is why i had to look for another place where she can get confirmed. My sister, Loren was her Godmother for this special occasion and Bea could not be happier. I am happy that Bea is growing up to be a very God-loving person, beautiful inside and out.

For Sale

2011-04-27T15:29:00.003+08:00

Yipee!

We have a new car!

The plan now is to sell our existing car since we cannot afford to have two cars with the high rising fuel prices. We will be taking photos of our "old" car tomorrow so we can post it on car sites to speed up the selling process. I now have to search for the cheapest auto insurance so we can bundle it up with it for more perks. We will be changing the tires and have it for auto detailing to make it more attractive. I hope we can make the ad really inviting so we can sell the car before school starts.

Back to our new car, the kids love it! Okay, me too ... hahah!

Will get my driver's license renewed next week so i can give the car a whirl.

Endless

2011-04-27T15:08:00.003+08:00

I just had a lovely chat with my cousin in Canada and we talked about so many things, from seious to trivial matters. I love yahoo messenger .. the topics are endless, and most of all you don't have to worry about toll charges, because there is none. Yey!

I am not much of a skype user since i would have to worry about how i will look on her side of the world, hahaha, don't use the camera in ym as well, just love talking via chat with no image, i am shy. Sure! lol!

So anyway, we talked about how she is doing there and she was raving about her online business degrees that she and her friends have acquired at the comfort of their homes and at their own pace and time. I feel so happy and proud for her that she has accomplished something valuable, education is one of the things i give importance to. I am happy for her. I did say that right? hahaha!

Lenten Walk

2011-04-26T13:09:00.005+08:00

Our entire family went through the Stations of the Cross walk way at the Fort Bonifacio High Street. These has been our yearly tradition and have been doing it for three years since they started it. My kids really enjoy it especially the activities for every station, they really put their hearts into it. This time around, Vin understood it better and was more into it than the previous years. Can't wait to see them do it again next year when they get another year wiser.

It's A Date

2011-04-26T12:44:00.003+08:00

The moment i saw this ad of a Cosplay inspired Maid Cafe i bookmarked it and told Bea and Sam about it. They are both excited to go and try it. I downloaded their menu and the girls and Vin have their orders on paper, hahah!

There is another restaurant i want to bring my kids to, it's called "Robot" restaurant and it boasts of futuristic decors and lighting. I wonder if they too have a remote security installed to complete the modern and high tech ambiance.

I will schedule our food trips within the summer break, will have to talk to Christian (our faithful and futuristic, hehehe, driver) when he can take us. Hoping for the weekend!

Holy Week

2011-04-19T14:59:00.002+08:00

Last Sunday, we got our palm leaves "palaspas" blessed by the priest to continue with the celebration of the Palm Sunday. Now that the holy week has started i have been hearing a lot of people talking about their plans for the vacation.

We won't be going out of town this year. We will be having our tradition of visiting churches on Good Friday before three o'clock in the afternoon.

Bea will be receiving her confirmation rites on Sunday morning, Easter Sunday with my sister Loren as her Godmother. I am excited for her!

She will be having it in the same church where Christian and i were confirmed. Sam on the other hand will be confirmed when she is in grade six (around 12 years old) and will be done all together with her classmates.

Vin still has a long way to go ... First Communion for Vin in two years time.

Playtime Comfort

2011-04-19T14:50:00.002+08:00

A friend of mine had on her status " .... just discovered the mom comforts of McDonald's Play Land." and i can relate with that. I love these cool commercial playground equipment available for the kids for the taking, while the moms and dads can enjoy their meal and still see their kids have the time of their lives .. actually hitting two birds with one stone. I have always encouraged my children to play in playgrounds for many reasons ... one is to move their bodies and not just sit in front of the computer .. second is to regain their balance ... and importantly make use of their people skills. I just love seeing children talk amongst themselves when they are laying down specific rules when they play. Love how they are able to delegate responsibilities as if it was a very hard decision making. I love seeing my kids play with other children and hear their heartfelt laughs.

Playing sounds are like music to mother's ears ... bliss.

Looking Back

2011-04-18T17:50:00.001+08:00

Seven years ago ....

How time flies really ... all the seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months and years well spent. :)

Seven Now

2011-04-18T17:44:00.002+08:00

Some moments from Vin's seventh birthday activities that included school party, swimming, mall time and Time Zone fun!

Update

2011-04-18T17:37:00.003+08:00

Got word from my cousin that her husband is doing okay now. Her husband is a seaman and is now recuperating after a major Maritime injury. I am happy and relieved that he is better now since he is the sole breadwinner and that my cousin will be devastated if he does not come out of it unscathed. They just got married late last year and are still in the adjustment period when this happened. But prayers do work wonders and i am so thankful that things are turning rosy for them. I will continue praying that he be on his way to recovery fast.

Prayers cannot only move mountain, but seas as well.

Suits Out, Stomach In

2011-04-18T17:32:00.003+08:00

Got my bathing suit out of hibernation ... after so long. My kids love to swim and i find time to take them swimming but i do not join them. I am in charge of looking after them, fixing the things and making sure everything is accounted for before we leave the pool. But this time around, the entire family is going to the beach and that means i will swim ... woohoo!

I am now a little apprehensive because of the state of my tummy area (uh oh) and have been looking at different solutions before the big day ... started to read about oxyelite pro side effects before taking the plunge to make sure if it is the right one for me. You can never be careful, and now that everything and anything is available online i don't see any reason why we should not be informed.

I am excited for our beach day ... just a few weeks to go to work it ... hahaha!

Magazine Out

2011-04-18T17:14:00.002+08:00

This are the pages of Bea's modeling stint in a magazine. Look at how she has grown ... a pretty lady. I scanned the magazine and posted them on Facebook and tagged her and her classmates who were with her in the photo. I love that now we all have an online place to store our pictures not like before that we always have to constantly make sure that we save everything on cds to make sure we back it up. But we have come to an age where online data backup is now possible! I love this day and age where technology really has gone through so much advancements. I am fortunate to belong to this generation ... no matter how fleeting ... hahaha!

No more lost data from now on!

Hats With Attitude

2011-04-18T16:58:00.003+08:00

One of my weaknesses are cool, stylish and Cheap Hats for my kids. They like wearing hats and caps, makes their faces clear by keeping their hair in place. Look at the nice hats they got from my sister, it bore their names on it and my sister even took the effort to ask them their favorite colors. Vin's cap came in black though, because green was not available at the time .. all the same he loved seeing his name written on it.

A perfect way to camouflage a bad hair day is a great looking hat ... and you are ready to face anything.

On The Way

2011-04-18T16:16:00.002+08:00

Regine and Ogie tied the knot last December 22 last year and the latest news is ... she is expecting! Yup, she is now five weeks pregnant. I am happy for her, especially that she married late and in her early 40's she is still able to bear a child. Good for her!

I am sure once she delivers it will be the talk of tinseltown, they have to go and scout for the the best backwoods cigars price to pass out in the hospital during the great day.

Regine has begged off from her regular shows to give her complete rest and to keep her pregnancy safe. I am praying that she goes the whole nine months as smooth sailing as she can. I am sure their future bundle of joy will be loved by all!

Awaited Menu

2011-04-18T16:03:00.002+08:00

Looked at the site where you can avail of watching Pacquiao with buffet and found their latest update ... the line up of dishes to be served! Yey!

Okay, now i am really thinking of going ... hahah!

Here it is:
Watch Manny Pacquiao and Shane Mosley duke it out over the WBO Welterweight championship and do it in style. Enjoy the fight while dining on a breakfast buffet! Check out the menu below:

APPETIZERS
Vegetable Salad Station and Oatmeal
Smoked Bangus (chicharon)
Smoked Tangigue
Smoked Tuna

BAKERY AND PASTRY
Pandesal, Danish Ube, Danish Mongo,
Ensaymada, Soft Roll, Cream Cheese Puff,
Assorted Loaf Bread,
Fruit Platter

MAIN COURSE
Garlic Rice, Daing na Bangus
Longanisa, Pork Tocino,
Tapa, Scrambled Egg

EXTRAS
Butter, Jams, 2 Kinds of Cereals,
Soya, Fresh Milk

Manny Pacquiao (52-3-2, 38 KOs)
Dubbed as the Fighter of the Decade for the 2000s by the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA), Pacquiao is the first and only boxer to win world titles in eight different weight divisions and the first to win the lineal championship in four different weight classes. Pacquiao is the pound for pound king in the ring and at the box office, selling more live tickets than ever in 2010.

Shane Mosley (46-6-1, 39 KOs)
Mosley has reigned as world champion four times in three different weight divisions, proving himself worthy by serving up defeats to Oscar De La Hoya
(twice), Fernando Vargas (twice), Ricardo Mayorga, Antonio Margarito, John John Molina, Jesse James Leija, hilip HOliday and Luis Callazo. De la Hoya, Holiday and Collazo were the only ones to survive the full 12 rounds to hear what the judges had to say.

Looking at the menu ... it is not a heavy menu so maybe ....

So what do you think? Should i go or ... should i go? Lol!

Boxing Buffet

2011-04-18T15:46:00.002+08:00

Christian is a fan.

Who is not anyway.

Hmmm.. maybe i am one of the rare ones who really do not fancy boxing matches. I actually went to see a live telecast for a Pacquiao match because the tickets was paired with a breakfast and lunch eat-all-you-can buffet and that was my main attraction. I was so full that day that i could hardly move, hahah!

Christian on the other hand had a great time cheering and watching it with the others while i munched away and made several trips to the buffet table. I would not be surprised if i gained a few unwanted pounds for that match alone.

And now here we are again ... another match ... another bout with the buffet table. I am actually considering it. I would have to take some adapexin-p with me to combat my carefree trips to the food station. I wonder if i should go .... maybe this time around i can be a fan ... we'll see. I wonder what will be on the menu as well ... tee hee!

Afternoon Flick

2011-04-18T14:44:00.002+08:00

Was fixing my clothes cabinet and popped a dvd on my player, watched Bride Wars again after a long time. I actually forgot the scenes and fell in love with the wedding dresses all over again. I just love watching wedding movies, makes me remember how fun it was to prepare for my own wedding. My wedding i remember clearly (not like the movie ... hahaha!) as if it was yesterday and not fourteen years ago ... yes it is that long ago.

I wish i could get married again (with the same man don't get me wrong, lol!) as there are a lot of cool things and nice ideas i have in mind now. I still have to wait for a whole 11 years if i want to have a renewal of vows on our 25th.

By the way, it's our wedding anniversary next month. I will have to settle to plan that for now.

Summer Sights

2011-04-18T14:35:00.002+08:00

You cannot deny the fact that it is summer .. you know why?

It's not because of the heat. Not because that many people are planning their vacation to the beach. Not the sprouting of a lot of halo-halo stands. It is the sight of many construction jobs that are beginning since they are taking advantage of the summer heat sans the rain to finish their job.

In our street alone , there are around three excavations that have started last week and was told that they will target the end of the month to finish the road. What a relief, finally we can get level roads before school begins.

I just love summer and i know a lot of people take advantage of this short but sweet time of the year.

No Transfer

2011-04-04T09:40:00.000+08:00

It's final.

After serious talks with the hubby.

We ae not moving ... at least for a year.

I was kind of dissapointed since i already had a few houses in mind, but given all the pros and cons of uprooting this time looks like the disadvantages outweighed the advantages.

So here i am knee deep (or neck-deep) in summer cleaning since we will be staying here for another year, might as well get everything as organized a spossible and take advantage of the time while the kids are here to help me.

All good things come to those who *patiently* wait.

Fixing Break

2011-04-04T09:23:00.002+08:00

I finally had time to sort our cabinet that is so full that i could hardly squeeze in another shirt without crumpling it. And after three hours of trying on what can still fit me i now have half filled shelves to put in my newly washed clothes without crumpling them out o their style.

Speaking of style, i was watching a movie while i was fixing (sure needed some sort of entertainment to complete the orderal .. hahaha) and it was a scene in the hospital where a nurse would come in the room wheeling in a tray that actually had everything on it,found out that was a Howard point of care cart and this tray had a monitor, a keyboard and even a mouse holder. This cool tray actually can save the patient a lot of questions that we are so used to when an intern enters the room and we actually ask ourselves, "did i just not answer these these questios to the past five nurses that came by today?" This way everything is on the monitor at a flick of some keystrokes and not a paper and pen that they always bring around ... maybe they can come up with more personal questions to ask the patient as to how she is feeling to the recently drug administered.

I can't wait to see this stylish and effective rolling trays soon in our own hospitals.

Status Updated

2011-03-29T12:04:00.002+08:00

Got a lot of funny comments when Christian listed me as his wife in facebook. Since Christian just joined facebook a few days ago this is the only time he updated his status as "married" and the update in relationship was on my wall. Hahaha!

My friends were having a grand time saying funny things about it. I just love facebook ... really a stress buster especially when you chat with old friends that you thought you have forgotten .. hehe!

Cabinet Treasures

2011-03-29T10:51:00.002+08:00

Finally i have really started summer cleaning ... or decluttering .. heheh!

Found the kids school medals and really remembered how many times i have been proud to grace every recognition day year after year to celebrate the kids accomplishments. When i was in school i did not have this much, okay truth be told i only had a medal for loyalty ... lol!

I am very blessed to have children who love going to school and learning new things this way they are not pressured to get medals but it just comes naturally since they are doing good in school. When i was also looking at the cabinets also saw some military challenge coins, foreign coins that Bea has been collecting and trophies.

I have so many good memories in just one cabinet. I can't wait to unearth (hahah!) the other forgotten cabinets.

I just love cleaning!

Summer Is On

2011-03-28T12:19:00.003+08:00

Summer is here!

Officially summer has started for us. It's a monday ... and we are home! Yey!

I love summer ... and with it comes the love of cleaning the house and catching up on my laundry. I would love to see the bottom of my hamper empty ... what bliss.

After all the cleaning chores since i have gathered enough dust on my face to last me a lifetime i always head out to get a relaxing facial to get rid of the blackheads on nose and the whiteheads that somehow manage to form after days of dusting. I don't mind getting all dirty since after all of this i will have a skin treat and a clean house.

I will start decluttering our school bags, get the books and put them on shelves where the kids still have access to them.

I have asked Bea and Sam to start this morning with their room ... great to have such good helping hands during these times ... i am no longer alone. Tee hee!

House Hunting

2011-03-23T16:35:00.002+08:00

I really, really want to transfer this summer. We found a great neighborhood and the kids are excited to stay there. The roads are wide and the kids can surely play without the risk of cars coming since it is an exclusive subdivision where cars hardly come in nit unless its the evening and everybody is heading for home. Looked at a few houses and i already have my choice .. so fast! Hahaha! I loved the idea of this house where the laundry area is on the second floor and that the washing machine can be on the same space of the clothesline pin for easy access. The faucets are already installed and a small sink where i can handwash too if i like. I really like it!

Funny though that when you get older , the plus part of a house is the laundry area ... tee hee!

No Panic

2011-03-11T19:50:00.002+08:00

I am praying that if an earthquake does strike us i can really be true to my word that i will not panic for the sake of my children. I already talked to them and told them where we will all go once we feel it and we are in the different areas of the house. I told them not to run and we will all be okay as soon as we are all together.

I have to not panic.

I will not.

Scary

2011-03-11T19:46:00.002+08:00

I have to admit, though i try and fight it ... i am scared.

Scared of earthquakes.

After New Zealand ... now Japan :(

Watching the news now and we are on alert for tsunamis that will enter the Philippines. These are the areas that are on the watchlists.

Several provinces in the Philippines are now under Tsunami Alert Level 1, following a strong earthquake in Northern Japan.
In a bulletin issued by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) these provinces are under watch and must prepare for a possible evacuation:
• Batanes Group of Islands
• Cagayan
• Ilocos Norte
• Isabela
• Quezon
• Aurora
• Camarines Norte
• Camarines Sur
• Albay
• Catanduanes
• Sorsogon
• Northern Samar
• Eastern Samar
• Leyte
• Southern Leyte
• Surigao del Norte
• Surigao del Sur
• Davao Oriental
• Davao del Sur

========

*This just in .... tsunamis has entered as of this writing. Forced evacuation is ongoing.
Let us all be safe.

Summer Cleaning Very Soon

2011-03-11T19:33:00.002+08:00

I am on the lookout for cabinet hardware now that i am getting ready to begin our yearly summer cleaning. With just a few more days of school i am ready to finally keep our things in order. I am planning on donating our old textbooks to a nearby school that can make use of it. I will also check all the clothes of the kids because they have grown reallyfast and there are a lot of shirts and pants that no longer fit, might as well give it to someone who will be able to use it. I love cleaning and keeping our things organized, i just don't have time to really sit down and do this because of my busy schedule in school plus the everyday housework. One of the things i look forward to during summer is diving into summer cleaning with the help of the kids. I love summer!

Sweet Treat

2011-03-06T19:29:00.002+08:00

Bea will be celebrating her thirteenth birthday on March 14 ... i have a full bloom teenager in my hands!

I decided to order these havenly looking cupcakes for Bea to give to her classmates during recess in school.

Bea is not fond of cakes though, but i am sure her classmates will enjoy this sweet treat. I will take pictures of the other flavore when i pick it up on the 13th.

Sweet and yummy!

Ending Soon

2011-03-06T19:24:00.002+08:00

I can't believe it the school year is almost over.

In just one month we will be saying goodbye to the kid's school for five years as we move on to another school for Bea's high school level. I was reminded of my friend who i saw last month when she said her daughter is now entering college and is thinking of being a doctor and they have been looking at a alot of potential schools and even medical assistant school for possible entry levels. It was just a few years ago when her daughter was just interested in playing Barbie dolls and now medicine. Whoa! Time sure flies!

I have always wondered what my kids would like when they grow up ... having a doctor in the family would be great though ... wishful thinking. Hahhaha!

Safety First

2011-03-06T19:18:00.002+08:00

My kids have been frequenting the park almost every weekend to play soccer and volleyball. The park is a cool 15 minute walk from our place but we have to pass by a busy main street first before we get in the vicinity of the residential areas where there are not much cars passing. I have taught my children to be wary of cars and even bikes that pass by not only from the ones behind us but also the ones on the other side of the street. I have stressed on them the importance of reading and observing the safety signs that are all over the main road to make sure that they will always be in check. I have always believed that safety should always be first.

Quiet Rain

2011-03-02T18:59:00.002+08:00

It rained today (is still raining actually) and it is quite a welcome respite for the dry and humid wind we have been experiencing since late February signalling that summer has really begun. There is actually many advantages for this afternoon pouring. First because of the cool temperature, secondly for the plants and third for the temporary stop construction of our road since the workers will get wet they had to stop, meaning drilling has also ceased ... yey!

Just heard on the news that the rain will not last and will be gone in a few hours ... so i am savoring the peace and quiet before the construction workers come back to resume the night drillings that keep me up at night till the wee hours of the morning. I wonder how they were able to secure a permit to work that late on a residential area.

Leaves me clueless.