I Love You, Goodbye

Undoubtedly, the title is a flop.  Sorry but it really is.
 A very desperate attempt to use a song title.

Disclaimer: This ain't a movie review.

January 3, 2010.

I was also desperate to watch a movie.  I can't remember the last time I watched a decent movie.  When I say decent, I mean English adult film.  You really wanna know when?  It was in October 2006!!! Man, October 2006!  It was You, Me and Dupree-- the one with Kate Hudson and Owen Wilson.  The last movie Norvz and I watched.  I was pregnant with Monica then.  We watched after my work--in TELUS.

Last Christmas, all the household help got free movie tickets together with their gifts and bonuses.  Yes, free movie tickets care of Citibank.  Us, three sisters are all Citibank credit cardholders and I'm sure most of you know about their promo.  Spend at least Php 1500 anywhere and you get a free movie pass.  Let's just say I have a lot.  As in A WHOLE LOT.

Would it sound selfish if I confess that I found it hard to give my free movie passes away?  I wanted to save them until Norvz comes home but the claiming period is only until February.

So I am totally going off-topic now. Flop.

-----------------
During MMFF week, of course the ANGELS --> that would be the members of the household help.
The angels wanted to go to the movies, they were excited. And they did.

Come January, I was left behind together with the other angel from Better Living.  So we watched the movie together. I didn't mind. :p

I'm no fan of Angelica Panganiban nor Gabby Concepcion.

I watched it just because my husband Derek Ramsay was in it.  Hahahaha.  I just like looking at his mole on the lower part of his left eye. Reminds me so much of my husband.

And also coz of Kim Chiu, wanted to see her bags and clothes.

Rambling, again.
---------------

I was a little bit surprised to actually relate my experiences with some parts of the movie. 

The seaman part, not so much.  The part that struck me most was their conversation by the bonfire.  It hit me in all the right places.  All of a sudden my memories from 2005-2006 flashed right in front of me.  Confession: I cried because it reminded me SO MUCH of what happened to Norvz and I.

Fast forward to scene of wedding preparations.  I took notice of the nice wedding invitations they showed because it looked classy and simple. 

The sudden turnaround of events was shocking--alarming, actually.  I didn't see that happening.  And because of that twist, I like the movie.  It wasn't the happy ending a typical Filipino was expecting but it added spice to a rather ordinary plot.

Now, if only I can find a DVD copy of that so Norvz can watch it come June.

The iPad And All Its Glory

No, I won't give a rundown of the iPad's features.  There's much has been said all over the web.

Just my thoughts..

Last night was my first time to witness an Apple Event LIVE.  Thanks to Gizmodo, Engadget, and Ustream.

Steve Jobs gave a tongue-in-cheek opening statement.  Quite true and somewhat funny.


Then flashed a photo of the first Powerbook. I never thought they pioneered the TFT screen.

Jobs mentioned "If there's gonna be a third category, it has to be better at these tasks -- otherwise it has no reason for being."

And that netbooks aren't good for anything.  Poor display and slow perfomance.  I'd have to agree on that.

I have to admit, I don't like the sound of it.  I don't like the name.  I'm so sure a lot of people wouldn't be able to pronounce it well.  iPad or iPod?

WOW.  That's the first thing I uttered the moment I saw the tablet. WOW. 

I've been wanting to buy my own iPod touc, then I see this... Gosh, no questions asked!  BUT, this or a Macbook Pro, I'd go for the latter.

 But then again, this is something nice to have!!

 The calendar is to-die for! Really feeds the OC-ness in me!

 There are so many ebook readers now and nothing appealed to me.  I LOVE the smell of fresh new books.  I like the feel of a book in my hands.  And it gives me joy seeing my room full of books.

BUT when I saw this, I am so ready to turn my back from those pleasures-- or maybe not. Hahaha.

If I were to choose, I'd pick the WiFi model at 64GB.  I don't think I'd be lugging this around when I'm out of the house and if I would, there are so many wifi areas already.  Plus I have my iPhone anyway which I can use for mobile internet.  I plan to only use this when I'm on bed while putting the ids to sleep.  I can blog and browse without worrying about the laptop overheating on the bed.  I don't see the need for 3G, I have instant WiFi access anywhere.

Yup, that's the one.

I'd like to have one of that thing in the middle.









THOUGHTS:
** Just like any other Apple innovation or any brand, some people would always have something bad to say about it.
** Apple is a brand that people love to hate.  Why?  Maybe because
    - they are die-hard PC users (i'm obviously the opposite)
    - they don't have enough money to buy it.  C'mon, it's a really nice gadget.  I'm sure people would buy it if they had spare cash.
    - they have no idea how easy it is to use.  Everything's so simple! A 1yo kid can operate it!
** There is no perfect gadget so stop griping about iPad's shortcomings.  Why would they put a camera?  That's like putting an end to the iPhone's sales!  And knowing Apple, I'm sure they are cooking up something new for or the later series of the iPad.
** It's definitely cheap if we're talking about $$$, but once it reaches Philippine shores.. good luck! with the conversion and taxes..  Haay..


All photos grabbed from Engadget

Multiply vs Flickr

A little over a year ago, I took the plunge and went premium with Multiply.  I was and still am scared of losing thousands and thousands of photos.  They are all that I have.

Late las year, I discovered that from $20, Multiply reduced its premium membership to just Php 800 ($ 17) yearly.  A little difference but it still matters to me.  It felt like a rip-off on my part.  That was also the time when I saw that some of my images were missing!  My media locker in Multiply can't load some of the images!  I panicked!!

Who wouldn't?!  After paying 2 years' worth of premium membership, my files get corrupted??
God thing, I burn all the images in a CD and I make use of my Mac's Time Machine.


Then I started getting serious with blogging.  I started searching for tools where I could just grab the images from my online storage so it won't use up my Picasa albums.

Flickr was an option since it's well-established and there were several apps that I could choose from.  The only drawback was the yearly fee of $ 24.95; I wanted it so badly mostly because of the feature of tags and being able to place a photo in several albums.  I'm dead OC so I needed that feature.  It gives me some sort of satisfaction and peace of mind.

With Multiply, my photos are all in the album where I save them as on my laptop. That's perfectly fine but when you have over 5,000 photos in one album, it's not helpful anymore.

Ease of use, I've got to hand it to Multiply.
Flickr is quite easy to but you have to get used to it.  And because it has more features, you have a lot more to learn.

With Multiply, you just turn your tiny little uploader in the background and it takes care of everything for you.
With Flickr, you drag and drop, then you are given the option to rename, give description, add tags, add to albums, and you can set the privacy of each and every single photo you will upload.  Although the website has too many menu and pages, it's a challenge to learn coming from Multiply.

Oh, and I paid Flickr via Paypal.  All that blogging paid off.

The question is, which provider should I pick?

My answer,

I honestly don't know yet.  I might have to stick with both of them but that would be costly.  Let's just see what happens.

Torrent Download Fever

The many years I have been absorbed in the the internet, it was only the other day that I made an effort to actually learn about torrents.

During training, on one of the many idle moments we had, my co-trainees and I found a lot of things we had in common.  We were all fond of books.  Although I don't remember disclosing that piece of trivia about myself.

Then we talked about movies.  I told them how much of a loser I am not being able to watch movies simply because I only want to watch with my husband.  I can't even watch HBO.  Kids are always on Playhouse Disney.

Torrent files came into the picture and I thought it was high time to actually learn it.

When I got home, I immediately downloaded a bittorrent client
I didn't have a hard time deciding which to download.
I chose this for my torrents download


It's so easy to learn!  I can't believe I've let myself miss out on this for so long!
I'm now on a torrent download spree, getting all the movies I can.
For sure, ze husband will be so delighted we can go back to our movie nights.
Since we had kids, it was impossible for us to watch movies either at home or in theatres.
 BUT we are not complaining at all.  We just miss it most of the time.

And yes, instead of blogging, I got too busy downloading videos and burning them to CD.

Hmm, which gives me another idea, maybe I should buy another WD Passport where I can store all the movies?

Hint hint Norvz! Hahaha!!
No need for hints. Pa-cute lang.

WD Passport for torrent. Next target!

The Evolution of the Apple iPad

It has been unveiled and road tested.

Now, let's explore the timeline.
In 2003 - industry peeps started speculating about Apple's rumored launch of an 8-inch iPod.  By April 2003, people started guessing that it will be somwhere around 15 inches in size. Never happened.

In 2004
   A UK-based reporter discovers that Apple allegedly bought a trademark protection for a seemingly iBook screen minus the keyboard.  Never happened.

From 2005-2007
   Tech editors keep discovering clues that Apple will launch a tablet.  And it will have the name "MacBook Touch." 

In 2009
   Various websites report that Apple wil soon be launching a tablet sized at 9 or 10 inches.  Some Taiwanese journalists mentioned a February 2010 ship date.  Gawker.com puts up a reward for whoever can release photos of the long-awaited tablet.  And another reward amounting to $100,000 for anyone who can show it being used for a good one hour.


People, in or out the industry have been eager to see the launch of THE Apple Tablet.
January 27, 2010, 1 PM Eastern Time, Apple announced the much-awaited hybrid of iPhone and MacBook.

Details grabbed from The Week

GlobeCalls App for iPhone

January 28 and I am so pleased with this new iPhone app from Globe Telecom.

Because I am not on SuperDuo though I wish I were but that just won't be practical.  It's cheap, yes but not fit for my situation.

I know the number I frequently call by heart but sometimes it can be a hassle to key in the numbers manually.

Here is what it looks like once you've chosen a contact.

Once you scroll down, a few more options are available like
- send a text message
- send gcash (i don't use that)
- share-a-load (so handy!)

So, yes, this new GlobeCalls App for iPhone from Globe Telecom is such a useful tool.  And it's a breeze to learn.

New Year and Real Estate

A photo of 4/7 grandkids in Starbucks in the Fort.

Again, I am so behind with updates.  In a day or two, I will be unbelievably busy with articles I have to finish by February 6.






No fail, whenever we go to any Starbucks branch or anywhere in High Street, we'd always receive real estate business cards from sales agent.  They are so tempting and I always want to have a chat with them.  Ugh! But I know it's too early for us to check on those.  Well, except if they are pre-selling.  That's an exemption.  Besides we are really not in a hurry. Well, we are in a hurry to get out of this place but not hurry, hurry. Rambling mdoe again.

Oh wait, so this was the night we came home from San Mateo. Thus the pambahay clothes of my chikitings.

Of all the flyers given out, I always find myself browsing on Alveo projects more.  Is it too far-fetched? Aah!! I don't care! I believe in "The Secret."

Let's see in 10 years?

Time For More

I'm supposed to do a Rapidshare Search for more movies and a few clips for kids. But I'm having a hard time focusing because I want to blog about so much.  I'm developing short attention span because of the internet.  There's just so much you can find and learn around here.  But only trust the reliable websites, it's so easy to be lured in some marketing site.  On my list, I have to find Johnny and the Sprites, Pororo, Dany and Daddy, and a few other kid programs, and those from Baby TV too. I need to replace some of the videos in their iPod.

Just another casual thought from me. Tss.

I am so backlogged here.
Here are a couple of shots from January 1.

My kids and I, together with my BIL and his family drove all the way to San Mateo to visit my MIL's mom.



It's such a long drive.  I'm sorry that I always dread going there.  My kids are not used to long trips.  They can't stand being the car for too long.  This is tried and tested, the longest my kids can stay behaved in the car is for 10 minutes.  Just enough for a trip from our house to Market! Market!  Whenever we go farther like in Glorietta or anywhere Ayala, they start getting cranky, the time we reach the intersection entering McKinley Road.

So on our trip, I had to stuff them with food inside the car so they won't have time to think about the long trip.

We arrived there stress-free and sound. Hahaha.
The Lola was happy to see the kids.  And I was surprised that Monica actually talked to her.  She was telling her about colors and flowers.

The next time we go there will probably be when ze husband comes home.

Awnings Dream

I don't know about you, but I have a thing for awnings.  Anything awnings, I like.  Once saw a featured house in Urban Zone; the interior designer decided to install some decorative awnings on the daughter's bedroom. It was so cute! The room had a Parisian feel to it.

On one of the many sleepless nights Norvz and I have, we talk about our dream house.  Our sole dream house.  We don't plan on buying 2 or more houses.  The house that we will build wil be our retirement home already.  We don't see ourselves settling in a province whether Tagaytay or Baguio, no matter how developed they are.  We want to live and die in the city.  So, yah, only one house to build but we're thinking of buying some condo unit in a posh place for investment or for retirement or for the kids when we die. Hahaha. That is, if we are blessed with financial wealth. :p

Or we're also thinking, just go and buy a condo unit then live there forever. But it has to be in a nice location. Yes, we are keeping our hopes up.

Where am I going here?

What I'm trying to say is, we both like to have awnings in our future home.  We like the idea that it somehow creates a statement. So much for that. Rambling thoughts again.

Apple's Latest Creation Event 01/27/10

After all these years, this is the first time that I am actually patiently tuned in to some liveblogging for the event.

Some thoughts:
Will there really be an Apple Tablet?
If there is, I'm sure it will be so expensive.  So expensive, it's gonna be impractical already.
I bet it's gonna be like an e-reader.  Goodluck to the sales of Nook and Kindle.
It'll have poor battery performance.  Just like any other newly-launched Apple product.


I'm more eager to see newer versions of the iPhone and MacBook Pros..

For live blog of the event:
http://live.gizmodo.com/

...of Crystals and Glass

It will be a challenge for me to mention the exact date when I started loving crystals and anything glass.  Hmm, wait, maybe when I discovered about mirrors? Hahahaha!!! That's glass, right?  When I started taking pleasure in looking at my reflection every chance I get? Of course, I'm just joking.

Seriously, I really fancy anything crystal and glass, especially collectible Swarovski crystal figurines; they're so pretty to look at.  I'm always fascinated with how they are made.  And being much of an OC, I would love to take care of them. I would love to make sure they are always clean and scratch-free.

Enough about that.

Back in the day, even before GMask was launched, I made myself a personalized protection for my mobile, it was a Nokia 6600.  I remember going to Michelle's in Divisoria, an authorized reseller of Swarovski at low prices.  I spent a lot of money buying clear and hot pink Swarovski crystals.  When I went home, I turned into Martha Stewart, hahaha. I started to get crafty and hurt myself a lot of time with the glue gun and stick.

I attached the crystals on my phone's casing.  It was so lovely!  My friends kept asking me about it.  Hay, too bad I didn't get to take a picture of it. 

Someday soon, when we have our own place already, our house will consist mainly of glass and stainless steel.  And probably with wood pieces and some crystal collectibles.  Though I'm not really sure if those combinations would look good together. Hahahaha!!!

Is It Obvious?

This afternoon, my mother goose sold one of her mobile phones to one of the household helpers.  What is it with helpers and cellphones?  We've encountered a lot, mostly from my sister, fresh from the province, and the first thing that they want to buy here is a cell phone.  And not just any handset, they want something that has a cell phone television service!

I sometimes get surprised when I hear them talking to each other after just a couple of days being here in Manila, all they talk about it cell phones, models, and features.

In my case, I have nothing against them using it during work hours.  I'm quite lenient.  What I don't like is when my kid gets neglected or hurt because of a text or a call.  I am so sure that more often than not, the text is probably just a "love quote".  No reason for them to go rushing to grab their mobile.  I do understand their need ot be connected with their family and friends.  In the same manner that my mobile is attached to me especially when Norvz is docked somewhere.

Is it obvious that I am actually running out of things to talk about here?
Well, I'm still contemplating on how I can write the next few more relevant topics.

Since we're on the topic of mobile phones, I got an email from Nokia about this new phone, the X6. It's beautiful! But I really don't see myself buying a new phone anytime soon.  Not unless it's an Apple.
Really, it's so hard to replace the "JESUS phone."

And for that, I am so excited for the upcoming APPLE "Latest Creation" Event.  I hope I have the money to buy the goodies!!! *salivates*seizures*

This Is What I've Been Waiting For

For the past several months, I have been exerting all my efforts trying to monetize this blog.  Having your own web address entails money.  I made a right choice choosing blogger as my host/ provider because it's free and easy to use although not highly customisable unlike wordpress--which is too technical for me.  I don't have enough time to learn all those html stuff.


Blog is a very powerful tool now for social media campaigns. 

Honestly, I don't really aim to be like Bryanboy or any other popular blogger.  I'm just here to log all my mundane and not-so mundane experiences as a mother and wife.  Before signing up for a blog, I never thought I would go this far and would actually think of ways to earn money from here.

I want to record almost everything, to earn is just a bonus for me.

Now, I have a sponsor.  That banner you see up there? BabyStar.  Yes, that's my sponsor.

I'm happy.

New Disclosure Policy

This policy is valid from 26 January 2010


 This blog is a personal blog written and edited by me. This blog accepts forms of cash advertising, sponsorship, paid insertions or other forms of compensation.

 The compensation received may influence the advertising content, topics or posts made in this blog. That content, advertising space or post may not always be identified as paid or sponsored content.

 The owner(s) of this blog is compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites and various other topics. Even though the owner(s) of this blog receives compensation for our posts or advertisements, we always give our honest opinions, findings, beliefs, or experiences on those topics or products. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely the bloggers' own. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider or party in question.

 This blog does not contain any content which might present a conflict of interest.


To get your own policy, go to http://www.disclosurepolicy.org

Blogs Turned Books!!!

Alright, I am so ecstatic about this.  After fixing a PPP post and publishing it, this is what greeted surprised me.

If you have a blog, you can now turn them into books either in soft or hard cover.  Plus, you also have the option of choosing the front and back cover or if you feel like you're so much of an author that you plan to put some introduction and what-nots on the first few pages.

You may also opt to convert your blog into an e-book if you want it cheaper.


Once you start the process, you will be shown a preview of your book and make some more changes before having it printed.  And what's even better is they offer FREE SHIPPING! Though I'm sure that's limited to USA only.

But, whatever. The idea still ROCKS! Yikes, I think that's the FIRST time I EVER used that adjective in my ENTIRE life! Hahaha!

Link Love

WAHM.. I'm Getting There...

A couple of years ago or more, I kept nagging everyone how much I wanted to be a SAHM.  A Stay-At-Home-Mom.  I felt it was the best thing I could ever do for my kids and for myself.  Not long after, I resigned from a job I love the most.

I don't regret it.  And I never will.

During that time, I was also frustrated of becoming a WAHM.  A Work-At-Home-Mom.  I thought squeezed my brains trying to figure out the next big business idea.

Nothing ever happened.  Well, honestly, I'm cooking up somethign right now.  I just have to settle myself first with my current project.

Training has ended. Finally!  After 5 days, I am free again!

I am now officially an employee.  Except that, I WORK FROM HOME.

No!

This is NOT a scam!

I'm really gettting excited about this.  I have a sudden urge to apply for more home-based jobs.  If in case, there's more--which I highly doubt.

So there, slowly, I am fulfilling my goals.

Finally, things are falling into their place.

Once my goals are done, we can start fulfilling ze husband's dream business.  Hush-hush :))

Confusion

Oh no, apologies if you are all getting confused with all the repostings. 

I just had to do that to comply with some rules.

I'm going crazy myself, too.

I don't know where to start anymore.

I'll probably just finisht this training (that's tomorrow!) and do some more blogging again.

I Want My Hands Full

Back when I was still working in TELUS, I loved how busy I was.  I was so busy I would often forget about lunch.  I loved it! No way for me to get fat. Hahaha.

Seriously, during my time, workload in TELUS Recruitment was just impossible.  My former co-workers would have to agree that it takes a lot of logic, strategy, patience, and determination to be able to finish the stuff we have to deal with every single day.  Weird because amidst all the heavy workload, we were so bonded and we always had a good laugh.

I remember one time, it was such a busy bee day for me and I had to find the perfect Valentine's Gifts, now let me gather my thoughts before I blog about that.  I was thinking of going to high-end stores just to make sure what I'll be getting ze husband will be very special.  I wanted to buy him something he can use for all his travels.

The moment I put down my stuff, I hurry (because I was always late, hahahaha) to the waiting area with my pen, clipboard, and mobile to call out the 10 names for interview. There were only 4 of us in the recruitment and everyday we'd receive 80-120 applicants with only around 10% passing.

I was a tough recruiter.  I'm known for that.  (Oh, how I miss it!)

This is the original Market! Market! team for TELUS.

Photo take November 3, 2006. Preggers with Monica already.  3 months, i think?

When all interviews are done or maybe while evaluating interviews, I would call up applicants to be scheduled the next day.  Either that or applicants who are already for job offer.  Hectic, I tell you.
But STILL FUN.

By 5pm, we start endorsing the applicants to the operations.  After which, we prepare the contracts.  yes prepare as in from filling out the form box (is that what you call it?) in Word and print them out. How clerical! But I miss that!  Heck, I even miss using the stapler!

TELUS Recruitment Team. Market! Market! and Discovery Center Ortigas

Photo taken December 2006 or January 2007

Nesslyn, Patty, Jacqui, Gurneem, ME, Maffi, Tet, Monsi

Then we do the job offer.  It was one of the more challenging part of my job, to charm the applicants so they will sign the contract.  We had to really convince them to sign and make them realize how beneficial it was to work with TELUS.  We had to do that, our WEEKLY hiring requirements were insane!  INSANE!

The last team I was a part of.  Unbeatable bonding!

Photo taken October 2007, a few months before I filed for resignation. Haay...

So much for that.  Too obvious how much I miss working?  Err, how much I miss the art of Recruitment?

I have a job waiting for me. Yup.  And I'm looking forward.  More on that later.

Frozen Starburst 2

Hi! Don't you worry about that.
I hope you don't mind I had your comment chopped off, I thought it was too personal.
My answer to your questions:
* well, I'm not sure about the members' demographic profile.  If it's any consolation, I'm only 25 years old and was able to get 3 of my friends sign up for it.
* from my experience, nope, the place never gets full.  I actually asked them, the maximum number of members that they allow to be inside is 24.  If there's more people, they ask the others to wait outside.  The whole circuit will take 30 minutes only.

* Curves Smart System, is that the one installed on the machines?  Honestly, the last time I went there was right before New Year, I didn't see it.  I'm just not too sure if they had it installed already.

They are actually very accommodating.  You can just walk-in there and inquire.  You can try out the equipments too.  I'm so sure they would be more than pleased to orient you.  They close at 730pm.

It's fun there.

I'm A Trainee???

Prior today, I was feeling really nervous and I was THIS close to backing out; after thinking about it in depth, I decided that I should
give it a go.

What was making me nervous?

Simple and nothing new, I am scared to leave my kids at home even if my Mommy is around, looking after the yaya. Regular readers are
probably sick and tired of hearing me say,
- i feel guilty everytime the kids are left at home for more than 3
hours
- i dont want my kids to be solely taken care of by a yaya
- i dont feel comfortable that the yaya will be the one to feed the
kids and/or give them a bath
- simply put, I am not at peace that the yaya gets to spend more time
with my kids

(which probably leads you to asking, what else does my yaya do. Good question.) Praning na kung praning. I don't care. My husband and I agree on that.

I know, i know...
How many times have I heard the lines:

"Me time is important."
"A happy wife is a happy mom."

I do have my me-time. When we go malling even with kids, I consider that my me-time because i get de-stressed.
I become a happy wife when i get to purchase something-- not necessarily for me.
And I am happy and more at peace when I am with my kids.

Yes, I do leave them sometimes for a couple of hours when I go to the
gym or if I have to do quick errands.

----------------

After all of those prany thoughts, I decided to take the plunge and accept the job.

It's not a typical job. I'm home-based. Yey!

Finally! A legit home-based job here in the Philippines!

I'm now training which will last for 5 days from 9am to 6pm.

After that, I am free to work anytime and anywhere I want. And earn as
much as I can.

Surely, it's not as high-paying as my job in TELUS or the offer I got
recently from another BPO. Ugh, THAT offer. I still regret it up to now.

But my family is my priority.

So, YES, I am looking forward to complete the training and work from
home. This is what I have been looking for--for the past two years.
And it's finally here!

Plus I feel like I'm back in school. I love the feeling of being in school! Nerdy-nerdy lang. :))

I'm happy.

Frozen Starburst

Hi there!

Thanks for reading and leaving a comment/ question.

Shucks, I am no expert in this field.



I used to be a member of Fitness First.  Twice actually. 

My opinions/ insights:
*  As a non-fitness enthusiast (well, I'm trying hard to be one), I find it hard to gym in Fitness First.  I feel so small among all the other members.  They are all so buffed and super dedicated in what they do. 
* Another is that in Fitness First or any other conventional gym, it's always better if you have a personal trainer.  Someone who can guide you or motivate you throughout your program.  And it's not cheap, ha!  I understand you have one or a couple of free sessions, but after that, you have to pay already.
* Third, from where I live, Curves is the nearest and most accessible to me. 
* As a mom, I feel that going to a conventional gym takes up so much time. 

* In Curves, it only takes 30 minutes for me to finish the routine/ circuit.

To answer your question,
YES, it can be rigorous.  It depends on your physical fitness level (if that's even the correct term).  For a non-active person like me, they require me to stick to the 30-minute program.

BUT once, I met this woman in her 40s, she did 2 or 3 rounds of circuit in one day.  I asked one of the trainers why, they told me that the girl lives a very active lifestyle.  She's a triathlete and plays tennis.

NOW, if you are not as active as her, it can still be rigorous.
The equipments have hydraulic system unlike the other gyms that use weights.

So that means, the faster you lift/ push/ pull, it gets harder.
I always run out of breath 10 minutes into the routine.    :p

I hope I answered your questions.
Sign up already! :)
It's so cheap pa.  Curves is a lot cheaper than Fitness First. Plus the service is more personalized.


Thank you!!

Just Because...

... it's a New Year, I'm really contemplating if I should get some investment plans from my sister who works as a freelance underwriter for Philam.  Yup, and she always has something to say when potential clients question Philamlife's stability.

I'm interested with quite a few and seriously thinking about getting 2 or more.  But will the plans available, I get confused, I always end up asking my sister to give me a refresher.  (Or maybe I should just resort to

best cd rates?)

What's holding me back is my endless struggle with my over-active mind.  Our own house, kids' education, additional business.  I'm so eager that I don''t know where to start.

I want to take advantage of our age.  We started young because we wanted to achieve a lot.

Keeping my hopes up.



*this post has been ad-sponsored*

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Must. Not. Happen. Again.

Woke up at 6am today, looking forward to have a decent breakfast.  I was craving for bacon and fried rice. What a lethal combination!  Too bad, the cook, didn't prepare the rice.  So tell me, why is she called a cook again? Hahaha!!

I just settled to have taho worth Php 15.  And if you live where I live, you'd know that's a lot!  A lot, as in the bowl is full.  Confession, I haven't experienced eating taho in malls because I find it so expensive! And in the 4 years that I've studied in my beloved AC, I never attempted to buy an 8 oz. taho worth Php 20. Nope! No way!

I never thought this day would be so unproductive.  I feel bad now.  The moment I woke up, I started playing Plants vs Zombies already.  The only time I left my chair was when I had to eat lunch.  Oh, and of course, when I had to feed my kids and give them a bath.

It was ze husband's fault.

The other day, I sent him the .rar file of the game.  The moment he went back to the ship, he started playing and got hooked. Hahahaha!!!

He kept bragging about the levels he completed and me being stuck in Level 2. ONLY because I chose to blog, surf, write, and facebook.

We raced and checked who got to unlock levels and shared our own strategies.

I'm now in level 6-2.  I forced myself to stop.

Not healthy at all.

As I am typing away, ze husband is busy working, preparing to leave for Palmouth.  Wherever that is.

Fully Booked

This is a repost from January 5, 2010
*this post has been ad-sponsored

My BIL's big bike is still in the repair shop. He's thinking of having some accessories shipped here like Accupressure. I'm not sure if my sister knows about his purchase plans.

Back to regular programming..

The day after Christmas, the kids and I were dragged to High Street because for some reason, my father wanted to drive at 10PM!!

Fearing for my kids' safety since my father is just relearning after 30 or so years, I brought my kids to Fully Booked.

I don't know a kid who doesn't enjoy books.
How many times have I declared in this blog and in my facebook page how much I love the smell of bookstores and books fresh from the box.

I can stay in a bookstore for hours on no end. And I feel sad for the country not to have a decent public library.

Here's a photo of the kids

Christmas And An Accident

Reposted from January 5, 2010

Christmas 2009 was a whole lot different from our previous Christmases.

Wait, don't get confused. The Christmas I'm referring is actually the eve. We always celebrate on the eve because the day itself we get to have our own activities.

Anyway....

This year, we decided to have potluck. My mom turns a year older every 24th. And she keeps complaining, she's never had a "happy" birthday because she's always cooking and ends up tired by midnight.

This year, my love wasn't around either. That's just so sad. We value Christmas and New Year more than our own birthdays.

And this year, my brother-in-law got into an accident.

Four days prior to Christmas eve, my sister has been ranting about his nightly activities. He never comes home on time and everytime he does, he smells like beer.
My sister understands that it's party season, what she doesn't get is she never gets a texts nor a call from the husband informing her of where he is and what time he plans to come home.

Tsk, tsk, tsk.. Very different from how Norvz and I deal with such things.

And the conflict starts with a big bike. The guy bought a 1200cc Yamaha bike which he struts everywhere around the metro.

Morning of 24th, still no text or call. My sister prepared herself that she won't be celebrating the Christmas with her husband.

By 10AM, she got a text and mentioned something about Tagaytay. She couldn't understand the text.

The moment I heard Tagaytay, I predicted something was wrong. It didn't feel and sound right to me.

And I was right.

Her husband got into a motorcycle accident in Tagaytay and is in the hospital.

Everybody panicked.

I instantly texted ze husband, being a motorcycle addict.
As you can see in this photo. Yamaha R-15

Don't be fooled with the bike's big body. It's still not allowed on SLEX :p

My text, to which ze husband replied,

Ang pagmomotor kasi hindi lang basta makasakay yan. Dapat marunong ka talaga. Hindi lang sa utak, by heart din

Major laugh trip my husband!!! Super!

So I asked him,

You mean to tell me, ikaw by heart ka so it gives you more right to own a 1000++cc bike?

He replied very confidently,

Oo! Simula pagkabata!

Yup he is very confident. He has every right to be.
He started very young. He was already doing motorcross.

He was just 11 or 12 back then. His parents bought him his own dirt bike. I don't know why he stopped. He could've made a career out of it.

Hearing from my BIL's story, it affirms my darling husband's guess. Ze husband told me the BIL didn't downshift. The BIL didn't tell me exactly or to anyone else.

Because it wasn't just an accident. It was a mistake.

Luckily, my BIL made it home by afternoon but he wasn't able to join the fun in opening presents.

He was in a sour mood too.

I heard the bike was in bad shape. Maybe I should refer him to auto body shop irvine.

So this Christmas, even if ze husband wasn't around, I felt grateful and loved for the kind of relationship and communication that we have.

We are the worst in fights but we are also definitely in sync when it comes to our partnership.

We are deeply in love with each other.

*this post has been ad-sponsored

Sooper Dooper Late

Reposted from January 4, 2010

I haven't greeted you Merry Christmas.
My apologies. Feeling a little bit bitter since I can't be with my darling husband on such a festive occasion.

How was your Christmas?

For me, I spent the day helping out my mother in the kitchen, cooking. Yes, I cook. Betcha didn't know that. Well, you wouldn't find me in the kitchen all the time. I hate smelling like food and I don't like my hands oily.

In the afternoon, I fixed the presents to save time once the gift giving starts.

There it is, halfway done with the presents. There's just too much! Only means our fmaily is growing! Well, it has stopped. They won't and shouldn't be expecting anymore kids from me.

Then we heard the 8pm mass in Forbes. How I wish we had our wedding here! Oh well, as what they always say, it's never about the wedding BUT the marriage. That's true.
Oh, here's something I found online, you might want to consider ordering cheap wedding invitations. Click on the link!



Now here's a photo of me and boy.


After eating, the kids started demanding to open the presents already. We started picking the names and kids couldn't wait for their names to be picked.

Our present for Monica was a Crayola Playdesk that can be converted from desk, to a magnetic whiteboard, to an easel. Plus the seat is adjustable and attached! That's good thing so the chair would just stay in place.

We gave Mateo a cheap bowling set. Being a boy, I always find him throwing toys and I get really pikon. I hate it when things get destroyed. And the battery-operated toys they have are not cheap so why I should we give him more toys to throw? I've consulted with the husband and I've decided to just buy him a cheap bowling set so he's licensed to throw it.

As for the Santa present, we only bought one. We explained to Monica that Santa wants the toy to be for sharing. Well, in reality, we didn't wanna spend on a gift Mateo wouldn't understand. He knows Santa yes, but he doesn't know the "essence" of receiving a gift form him.

We bought the kids a bike good for two. And it's been serving the kids well. And me, too! When they ride on it, aah.. quiet time for me!
Super worth it. I got it cheap at only Php 2200!

Total wallet damage for Christmas 2009: Php15,000 - Php 17,000
Haay...
No matter how much you try to save and spend less, it just won't work!

But it's all good.

*this post has been sponsored by 123print.com

So Funny

So funny, I remember when I was young, I was so amazed with Wooden blinds, I kept urging my mother to buy one for our house.

I just thought it was so cool. Pulling a string and it will cause the blinds to close or open or to move from side to side. Oh, sudden memory, back in the day when ATM wasn't around yet, we had to go to the bank to withdraw using a passbook. Hahahaha.

And that bank would be BPI main branch in Paseo cor Ayala Avenue in Makati City. Memories are so fresh. She brings me with her, she falls in line while I wait for her in one of the big and comfy couches there. Most of the time, while i'm waiting for her, I would play with sky-high blinds of BPI.

That's what probably influenced me to like wooden blinds.

But I'm a big girl now, I don't get to go out with my mommy anymore. It's impossible for us to go out just the two of us.

Nostalgic mode, switched on.

Holidays Are Over

Holidays are officially over for me.

Any day now, I will be receiving my card's bill.  I have an idea already of how much I will be paying.  It's scary.  I'm dreading it.  I leep wondering why no matter how much I try to spend less, it just seems impossible. I started Christmas shopping really early, like September early.

Oh well, it's always important to pay your credit card in full.  Never ever leave balance no matter how small.  Also, keep in mind your cut-off date.  Hold off a few of your purchases and wait for the next cut-off so you won't be surprised on your current bill.

Ze husband is in England right now and had some free time to visit Tesco.  The store didn't accept US dollars, and they didn't have a money changer.  His mates asked him to just use his credit card and pay him.

His mates were so delighted how easy it was to shop. Swipe, swipe, swipe!  They told him they will get one once they arrive home.  But he warned them, they might be potential victims of bad credit loans

As usual, ze husband didn't buy anything.  He's a very frugal boy.  So much so that i feel bad of how I spend already. Heehee.

Seriously...

Going back to my expected amount due, GOD will provide :p

Flats and Plantar Fasciitis

I want something like this.  It's been so long, I can't remember when exactly, but I've always been a fan of flat shoes.  And only in 2008 I was diagnosed to have plantar fasciitis.

Meow by Jeff Campbell

Classic leather oxford in a 'goes with everything' cream color. Leather upper and insole.

Plantar fasciitis is when the soles of your feet hurt.  They hurt when you get up from the chair.  They hurt when you get up form bed early in the morning or after being on the bed for so long. Plantar fasciitis is also felt during long walks.  It's such a hard condition to deal with.

I've plantar fasciitis when I was still pregnant with Mateo, I've ballooned so big, my feet probably had a hard time carrying the weight of my ginormous body.

I had to wear Crocs every single time.

Up to now, almost two years later, I still can't walk for a long time when I'm using only Havaianas or any flat shoe.

But that's no reason for me to ignore the beauty of the shoes pictured above.

It goes with everything.

imgsrc

Exhausted

It's only 10:30pm and I'm feeling so tired already.

My kids woke up at 4:30 in the morning! They were so energetic, was supposed to grocery in the morning but had to cancel it since they went back to sleep by 7am.

Woke up by 11am with a terrible headache.  I fed the kids and gave them a bath.

By 2pm, we headed to the grocery together with their cousins.
It's so hard when there are so many kids in tow.  Such a hassle.

After paying, Monica asked to eat Takoyaki.  Tradition na everytime.

Got home 730pm.

Fed the kids again.  Played a little then bath time.

Hay, the path I chose to take. I'm not complaining at all but sometimes it can really be stressful.

At the end of the day, I'm still happy where I am now.  I'm happy I chose to be not just a Stay-At-Home-Mom BUT also a Hands-on Mom

Shoutout To AVENT Girl..

Finally! A reader with sense AND knowledge!

I remember you! :))

J**m*n***r, right? Tama ba?


Thank you!!
I read those blogs too.

It's actually C who told me what to do with some pesky peeps.

Where can I read you?

How is it living there?

NYE 2009

I'm still not done with that post of looking back for the past decade.

We spent New Year's Eve at home.  It's been like that ever since.  Medyo corny but it's tradition already.

Me and my favorite boy in the whole wide world!  Well, next to Norvz. Hahahaha



Me and my chikitings!

Stop - Spice Girls

December 31, 2009
Suddenly thought of listening to Spice Girls.
This is one of my favorite songs.  Well, it's really hard to pick just one.
I was such a die-hard fan, I love all their songs. Yes, until now.
My mommy was so kind to buy me all the magazines the Spice Girls covered for.
And postcards, calendars, clothes, everything collectible!

I was surprised that my kid loves this song too.
Taught her the steps and she willingly follows. Hahaha.

Spice Girls - Stop
Uploaded by lilmarcus. - Explore more music videos.

And yes, my friends from the neighborhood joined me in the Spice Girls craze.
I remember we would dance to their songs in our house.
I think I preferred Sporty Spice back then because she was the least favored.
She was Baby spice, I think? She's not a baby anymore.
While she was and still is Posh Spice

Girl Power!!!
Hahahahaha!!!

Lolo Car's Birthday

 December 29, 2009

7pm, I got a text from my in-laws telling me that they will pick us up for an unplanned dinner since it's my Father In Law's birthday.

We arrived at Shakey's Makati Ave by 9pm and took advantage of their dicsount card.  Not too sure, was that Pizzanatic?
While we were there we talked about Ohio Property Managers
It's always nice to talk about dreams and and plans for investment  And I'm thankful I have in-laws I can talk comfortably with.  They're very open about anything and I haven't had conflicts with them.
I still have to discuss some things with ze husband about that night in Shakey's.


The kids ate chicken and mojos, as usual.
I was trying to call up ze husband, fail.

Gobstopper is LOVE

This is what I found when the kids and I went to the mall a few days ago.



It's not always that Candy Corner offers this.  I got too excited and bought two boxes.

Ze husband and I owe our history to Gobstopper.

Senior high:
We weren't a couple back then, we were just constant buddies.  We'd take lunches together.  We share food and even the drinks.  He would call me up on the phone once we get home and talk for hours with dinner as our breaktime then talk again.  And in between, we were textmates.

All that and several boxes of Gosbtopper.  We bonded over it.  We were having so much fun as friends.  We enjoyed each other's company and learned a lot more about ourselves and we talked about the past.

Then one day, it just happened.
We were celebrating his birthday with friends. It was October 30, 2000.
We realized that we couldn't stand being apart from one another anymore.  We learned that we are so alike in so many ways and we agree to disagree over some stuff too. 
Then we talked about what could possibly happen should we decide to take our relationship to the next level. I asked him how sincere he was and why he thinks/ feels we should be together officially.  I can still remember his face and what we wore.
A few days before that he already "proposed" to me and in year 2000, mobile signal wasn't that stable yet.  I was close to crying because I couldn't reply to him.  The next day, he called me up as if nothing happened the previous night. Tss.

On October 30, 2000, around 4:30 in the afternoon.  I accepted his proposal.  When I gave him my answer, we laughed.  We laughed so hard, as in.  It's a secret why we laughed.  I don't think we shared that part of the story to anyone.  It's such a PRECIOUS joke/ misinterpretation that we still laugh about up to this day.



2010, a start of the new decade.

It's been a roller coaster ride.  It's not been easy but FUN.
We still get cheesy over gobstopper and everything else that remind us of our past.

I can't believe it's been 10 years. That was incredibly fast.

Reason why I'm looking forward to 10.30.2010
Hopefully, ze husband will be here.  We could probably do something together.  I'm not expecting something fancy.  As long as it's meaningful and we're together.

It's A Good Day!

I learn so much from my kids.  Such a sight to see Monica and Mateo sing to this and they even copy the moves.  Every single move.
A very positive song.  Exactly what a parent should teach kids.



A lot of people could really use a point or two from Hannah and Emily from Barney. Hahahahaha!!!

It's a great day, a beautiful day

The kind of day that makes me wanna say

I'm glad that I'm alive

I'm happy to be me, and that's the way to be

See how the clouds go drifting by

See how the sun lights up the sky

On a day like this every winter, fall or spring

It makes me wanna sing

It's a great day, a beautiful day

The kind of day that makes me wanna say

I'm glad that I'm a live

I'm happy to be me, and that's the way to be

See all the colors of the world

See all your friends, each boy or girl

On a day like this every winter, fall or spring

I Have So Much Time Now

I've been advised by a very influential blogger on how to handle rude readers.

Yes, rude, as in those people who leave nasty comments.  Comments that are totally off-topic and judgmental.  Comments that are supposed to make the blog owner cry or feel bad.

Sorry but that won't happen.

Whatever reason I have why I keep a blog is none of your business.  Besides you don't even give me the money to keep this site up.
I started this without expecting that some people would eventually read it.

Because I'm bored, mag-asaran tayo.

This will be the last, though. Why? Because people like you don't deserve the attention that you are desperately seeking.

* If you think you're not pretty, don't blame me for it.  Don't be mad at me.
* Next time you mention a name from my distant past, make sure you are correct.  I can tolerate your POOR grammar or anyone else's but NOT spelling. Pangalan na nga lang, mali pa!
* Whoever said I'm sosyal?  My gosh!! How old are you? At your age, you still think that to speak in English is being pasosyal? You see, my friend, this blog right here is more than just a diary. I need to use the language. Now if I'm giving you a hard time, go click on that X button up there.
* You think I'm losyang? Hahahahahaha!!!! That's the funniest line ever! EVER!

* Too proud and all that? Are you serious?? If not for you, I wouldn't have known somebody reads this!! So thank you for proving otherwise.

* Yes, I came from PEMBO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL.  Never in my 25 years of existence have I been ashamed to say that.  I tell that to all my friends.  And you know what, the friends I made from that public school are the most genuine people I know.  In fact, we are all in constant communication now and having so much fun in our endless get-togethers.  I love that phase in my life.  I am a proud and successful product of a public school in Makati.  Ikaw, IS Manila ka ba?  Tss.
* Ranting other people? I can't quite understand that.  But anyway, I wasn't ranting.  I was merely stating a few facts.  Before you use a word, look it up first.
* Before you pray for me, why don't you offer a prayer for yourself?  And for that, thank you because you just increased the number of people who are praying for me! Yehey! Truly I am so blessed!

Let me quote you:

 "....and hey stop too pasusyal becouse you look so lusyang as in , your too proud and feeling... you keep on ranting other people..."

Pointers for review:
- susyal
- becouse
- lusyang
- your is totally different from you're

That's it!

This will be the last.

Ok, moving forward....

This Is Mine

That said, I have all the right to post anything I want.

The logic is VERY simple even for a puny mind like yours,

If you don't like what you're reading or seeing, go away!
Get yourself your own page.

Demeaning comments never affected me and never will.


Go get yourself a book like this one

No, Really...

I don't think I know you.  Well maybe I do but then you're worthless and clearly you are not a friend so I killed you in my mind.

Hahahahahaha!!!

Happy New Year!!

Yes to positivity!!!

Because I'm too busy spending time with my kids and my darling husband, I won't be able to pay attention to you as much as YOU want.


Thank you that you wasted your time visiting me in this PAID space of MINE.
And for wasting some more of your time to post not one, BUT THREE comments!!
Nonsense statements but I'm still grateful.

If you really have nothing worthy of doing and you have some spare change, since you're too dedicated in mocking me (which I'm loving right now, by the way) , why don't you put up your own blog?

I love the attention.  I deserve it! Mock me some more!!!! Feels so good! Really!

It Wasn't Me

Oh, high school days!
My high school days are filled with memories of my darling husband.

Unlike the majority of people who swear by high school being the happiest moment in their lives, I never got to enjoy high school.

There too many troubles that came my way even if I was such a diligent student :p
I never picked a fight on anyone.  There would always be someone who'd get mad at me.
Was I bullied? I don't think so.
I never let them get the worst in me.

Maybe the reason why more hated me.  I never wasted my time to deal with wannabes.
I'm too smart and pretty for them. Hahahaha!!

Senior year was the best! At least I can say high school was a lot fun for me.  Thanks to ze husband.

I can go on and on and on about everything we did.
Our love story is always a delight for everyone.

Weeks ago, as I was listening to my usual online radio, this song played..
It Wasn't Me by Shaggy.

Major laugh trip!
That time, it was so uso and I hated it so much. The song seemed rude for me.  The message of the song was rude.  How I hate philandering men!

He knew that, so everytime we're together, whatever time of day, he'd always sing it to me.  He'd even dance and tease me in front of our classmates.
We weren't a couple yet but he was making pa-cute already!

Crazy boy!

He'd tease even while we talk on the phone (for hours, of course!)!


I love him for that. Period.

Here's the music video to refresh your memory.
It Wasn't Me by Shaggy
Released: 2000

This One's Staying

This is my second template for this year.

I don't wanna keep changing.

There's just too much options, it's hard to choose already.

I'm temporarily saying goodbye to 3-column templates.  

I've figured, it's not me.

And It Starts..

Time for some PPP lovin'.

Yes, it's starting again.
Whatever happened to my motivation to lose weight and look fab as much as I can??

I don't wanna gain weight and hopefully not require myself to undergo bariatric surgery houston

No, NO, NO, NO!

I'm too vain. I won't be able to forgive myself.
I decided to get married early and have kids as early as I can just so I can have greater chances of getting my shape weight back.  And I am thankful that I am just 6 lbs away from my dream weight.  I don't care if I think and look anorexic.  To each his own. Hahaha.

A few lot of toning would be a good idea, though.  And didn't I tell you that working out is especially good for me since I had a back injury?

This afternoon, I got a phonecall from CURVES asking why I haven't returned to the center for a couple of weeks now.

Yikes.

Here's to hoping I can visit them next week and the coming weeks.

And The EPAL Award Goes To....

Who would've thought you're still alive?
Glad to know. BARF Arf Arf. Hahahaha! Can't help but laugh.

Anyway, since you claim to be a guy, I suddenly thought that..

For somebody like you to be a GUY, my oh my, you are so QUEER!!!

WAHAHAHAHA

Eew laughter. BARF. (on your face) :p

I meant *guffaw*

With that, I would like to greet you back..

Happy New QUEER!
Oops, sorry, I meant year.
Doesn't matter. You're gonna die soon anyway. (just joking. or maybe not)
*an image of you crossing the road, preferably along C5, hit by a truck*

or if you're so rich that you smell like moolah-- you know the kind that comes from the palengke. What did you think, fresh from the bank??

*an image of you being poisoned by your muchachas or by your lover boy so he can steal all your wealth*

I had fun doing this! I could BARF arf arf arf on your face from too much laughter.

New Year, New Template

This is my first time to use a template with 3 columns.

I'm still trying to get used to this.
Will try to sleep and see if I still like it once I wake up.


I guess I'm really into 2 column templates.
With the current template, it looks like a lot is going on.
Thing is, I want to be able to accomodate all the HTML codes I have.

Let's see.

Jigsaw Puzzle

Lately, Monica keeps herself busy with puzzles.

I'm not too sure about other kids but if you will ask me, I'm quite surprised that she can finish jigsaw puzzles all on her own.

I don't guide her, I swear.

Sometimes, when she gets a little bit frustrated, I need to remind her to try twisting the piece or try another piece. BUT i say it from afar. I don't go to her and give her the right piece.
I don't train her that way even with other stuff.

Here she is bragging her puzzles. She told me

Mommy, take pictures. See? It's so cool! I did it!

Going Crazy

This is the life.

Exactly what is life? How would I want to spend or live my life?
Lately, my brain's been on a roll.
I can't seem to stop thinking about what the future holds OR how we should plan our future.
I think I earned wrinkles enough until the day I turn 35. That's 10 years from now.

Still young, you think?

Maybe.

------------- A BACKGROUNDER ------------------

You see, it was our decision to get married at such a young age of 21.
I'd say that was pretty cool.

While others were out partying and hopping from one relationship to another, while some are busy counting how many one-night stands they had, we were partying with relatives and close and monogamous friends.

Did we ever get tired of singlehood? Nope, I don't think so. But it didn't matter to us.
We were together for 6 years and had our fair share of parties and dates.

Now if you mean if we ever get tired of singlehood, as referring to be sluts, most likely, yes. Back when we were no more than but acquaintances.

The only thing we wanted was for us to get married, stay together as long as possible and have kids early.

He's a seaman.
We counted the days we can spend together versus being away from each other.
So instead of being a girlfriend waiting for her shorty to come home and spend nights in each of our own homes, we took the road less travelled.

We married and had sex every night! Kidding! No, I was serious. Hahaha, just joking!
It's up to you what you want to believe *snicker*

Three months after, I got pregnant. As I've always said, it was a welcome surprise.
Being married, we refused to be protected. What else is being married for, right?

Two years had passed and we are blessed with 2 kids, a girl and a boy.

We'd like to believe it was God who wanted me to get pregnant the 2nd time around.

WHY?

Back in college, I always fantasized of getting married by 08.08.08
I thought about infinity and having the perfect age to get married, 24.
But of course, that changed. I wanted to get married EARLIER.

Due to fear of pills, I accidentally got pregnant the 2nd time.
We got scared. Can we actually take care of two kids when I had just resigned from work?

A couple of ultrasounds later, we learned that our second child is a BOY and he will have the perfect age by 08.08.08

In fact, his 38th week falls exactly on 08.08.08

Coincidence?
I don't think so.

GOD IS GOOD

Then life went on.

Our kids Monica Marielle and Mateo Miguel are now 2 and 1.
Darling N passed his board exam so we hope for the better by 2010.

************ HURDLES ****************

1. Nobody is rushing us but we really want to have a place to call our own.
^^^^ we want no less than 130sqm in a house. Lot should be bigger than that. We dream of having 3 or more house floors. Probably a 2-car garage
^^^^ we only wanna be in the same area we are in now in. The thing is, there are no more vacant lots here. Should there be a house for sale, it's gonna be expensive plus we are so sure we would have to bring the house down and hire an architect to build our own.
^^^^ if we can't buy one here, we can only settle for Mahogany Place. But the price is just too high. And we can't design our own since there is a theme for the village.

>>> All those considered, I think we are now leaning towards buying a condo unit. Again, LOCATION is important. We only want The Fort or that DMCI area near C5.
^^^^ We want 2 or 3br unit and should be built with lots of greenery around. Think Serendra.

BUT!!!!!

The kids are going to school already.

And do you know that 0-6 years of age is the most critical period? It is during this time that they absorb everything and most eager to learn. That only means we have to send them to a good school.

Aaaah!!!

I'm going crazy thinking about these thoughts!!!!

Rubber Stamps

A few weeks before ze husband left, he told me to buy the kids their own rubber stamps. It's still a puzzle to me why of all things and he specifically wanted me to look for a good kind and buy a set for the kids.

I asked him, why stamps?

He plainly said, don't you think it will be fun for kids to stamp?

I gave no answer.

So every time we go to a toy store or book store, I look for some really nice rubber stamps.
There's a lot actually in Fully Booked.

But I can't accept the fact to pay no less than a thousand bucks for stamps.

Yes, they are so attractive to look at. But they are just stamps!

Oh well,maybe I haven't really searched well.

I might just have to settle to order from the link I placed above. I actually bought a cheap one, the kids didn't enjoy the stamps too much.  It must be because of the stamp pad ink and probably the stamp pattern. 

The other day, I saw a set of stamps composed of letters, I might consider that just incase I run out of options.  Preferably, I want something with shapes so they can build a few figures.