Surprisingly Beautiful

Hello, 2012!!!

2012-01-01T22:47:00.007+08:00

Grabbed this here.

1. What did you do in 2011 that you'd never done before?
- Be a validator/background investigator for Civil Service Commission's annual search for outstanding government employee; and
- Ride a ferry from one island to another

2. Did you keep your new years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
- No, I didn't have NY resolutions last year. No, I'm not having resolutions this year, but I'll be setting goals instead.

3. How will you be spending New Year's Eve?
I spent it with the entire family at home. We had fireworks and media noche at midnight.

4. Did anyone close to you die?
- Thankfully, none.

5. What countries did you visit?
- Unfortunately, none. Hopefully this year.

6. What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?
- A promotion at work.

7. What date from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
- July 13-16. My hubby and I spent our 4th wedding anniversary in Bohol and Cebu.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
- When one of the nominees we validated for CSC won.

9. What was your biggest failure?
- LWOPs!!!

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
- I've hypertension since 1996 and high-glucose level since 2007-2008.

11. What was the best thing you bought?
- My S5570 and Sharp DVD player for the kids.

12. Where did most of your money go?
- Paying off bills and loans.

13. What song will always remind you of 2011?
- Hot n Cold by Katy Perry

14. What do you wish you'd done more of
- Spending more quality and intimate moments with my husband

15. What do you wish you'd done less of?
- Unnecessary spending

16. What was your favorite TV program?
- Supernatural and Ghost Whisperer

17. Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
-Yes, PNoy!!!

18. What was the best book you read?
- Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson, M.D.

19. What was your greatest musical discovery?
- Sing Sing Together Package from the Android Market. My kids love it.

20. What was your favorite film of this year?
- I'm torn between The Tourist and Burlesque.

21. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
- I turned 33 and did nothing as I had a pre-birthday celebration at Enchanted Kingdom with my family.

22. What kept you sane?
- Milo and Pretzel

23. Who did you miss?
- Lola Conching especially during Christmas.

24. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011:
- Do not make decisions when you're angry.

Cheers, everyone! May we all have a better 2012.

Season's Greeting 2011

2011-12-24T02:27:00.000+08:00

33 Things I'm Thankful for @ 33

2011-12-01T16:58:00.024+08:00

from http://cullinancakes.blogspot.com/2011/02/33rd-birthday.html

I turned 33 last November 3. So, to celebrate my 33rd year and to welcome Christmastime, here's a list of 33 things I am thankful for.

1. My husband, my significant other, the one I love the most. He is God's gift to me in spite of his imperfections and shortcomings.

2. My 4 years of marriage. It wasn't always as blissful as I imagined or hoped for, but it is, indeed, my happily ever after. No regrets.

3. My darling babies, Milo and Pretzel. They rock my world! I love them to bits.

4. Free local travels courtesy of COA and CSC. These are work-related, but it's still fun.

5. Good food.

6. My 2 "oldest" friends, Sheqs and Abbey.

7. My talent to cook and the ability to feed my family with yummy food.

8. Constant free supply of books from my sister.

9. My sisters.
Before there was Piper, Pru, Phoebe, and Paige, there was Tintin, Chelly, and Bru.

10. My little brother.

11. The Mean Girls.
Ieni, Cai, Khim, Vayie, and Tin

12. In spite of huge cut in our finances this year, we were able to celebrate our 4th wedding anniversary in Bohol and Cebu.

13. Size 11 ladies' shoes readily available at local department stores.

14. My parents.

15. My in-laws.

16. My work. A promotion would be good, though. LOL

17. My education. UPIS from K-10 and DLSU for college.

18. Discount coupons/vouchers.

19. Yes, credit cards.

20. RTW plus-size clothes.

21. The courage to cut my hair short after 7 years. Nah, it has nothing to do with religion whatsoever. ;)

22. My boss, MQL. She's the bestest!!!

23. My Barneys', Jen and Aline.

24. My quick stints at 2 of the nation's top networks. Andami kong nakitang artista. LOL

25. Clean and cold drinking water. Not everyone has access to it. Let's not take in for granted.

26. The Internet.

27. Different strangers who have become acquaintances and friends.

28. My various work experiences, which make me a versatile employee.

29. My 2nd new phone this year.

30. Finally, I'm able to afford new glasses.

31. Free board and lodging at my parents' house.
I'm not a parasite, I'm just broke. LOL

32. I'm overweight, diabetic, and hypertensive. I'm not 100% healthy obviously, but I'm good. Gotta do something about the weight, though. I'm not forever young.

33.
Period.

Yummy Sunday - I dared! I liked!

2011-09-25T01:50:00.005+08:00

Jay-J's Crispy Dinuguan (pork blood stew) is the only dinuguan I eat.

I haven't eaten dinuguan or pork blood stew in a looooooooooooooooooooooooooooooong time. From the moment I first tasted it way back God knows when, I haven't tried it again. I'm not a picky eater, but this dish is probably last on my list tied with balut. Ayoko lang talaga!!! We had dinner at Jay-J's restaurant a few weeks ago and my sister told me to try it. I did. Small bites at first and before I knew it, I was enjoying it na. It's not still my most favorite dish in the world pero hindi na ka-tie ng balut. Na-promote na. Mga pang-99 na.

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Mommy Moments - Earth-Friendly Tip

2011-09-09T22:04:00.006+08:00

These are not my original tips. These are just some of my favorites. I practice them as much as I can.

Turn off the faucet when brushing your teeth.

According to dailygreen.com, "you can also save up to 8 gallons of water a day simply by turning off the tap while you brush your teeth in the morning and at night. Do the same while you shave."

Turn off the lights when not in use.

Green71.com explains that "a normal bulb will use 60 watts of energy an hour, meaning that you could conserve nearly 22,000 watts of energy per year by just switching off one bulb for one hour every day."

Think before you print.

According to panda.org, "think twice if you really need to print. If necessary, make sure you print on both sides – this is an easy way to reduce paper consumption by half."

Reuse paper.

Ehow.com has some tips on how to reuse paper:

"Save paper that has print on only one side. This paper can be reused in a variety of ways: for writing lists or notes, as drawing or coloring paper for children, for home printing that doesn't need to be professional, or shred it and use it as garden mulch or packing material."

I was contemplating on "read e-book instead" and decided against it, anyway. While e-books are more paper-friendly, I still prefer the "physical" book. I'm just so happy to find out that there's an organization that makes me feel less guilty about reading paper books - Plant a tree for every book you read.

Let's take the extra mile in caring for Mother Earth. It's the only home we have.

Yummy Sunday - My Take on Steak

2011-09-04T02:09:00.000+08:00

Old Vine Grille's
Cheesy Steak with Asparagus and Potato Wedges

The recent long weekend brought the whole family to dine at Old Vine Grille in Eastwood City. I'm not really a big fan of steaks because I find them boring to eat and expensive. So, to be on the safe side, I ordered a not-so-OA sa mahal na steak, which is the Cheesy Steak with Asparagus and Potato Wedges. I had mine well done, but when our orders came, I got my sister's bf's order, which was medium done. I'm truly glad for the mix up. From now, I'll be ordering my steak that way - with a pinkish meat and tender to the bite.

Mommy Moments - Financial Tip

2011-09-02T20:15:00.006+08:00

I'm embarrassed to admit it, but I'm a gastadora to the highest level. Motherhood has not tamed me at all. If dati I spend on myself, now I spend on my kids. If I see something that I think Milo or Pretzel will like, I'll buy it in a heartbeat. Maski hindi kailangan, I'll still buy it. Minsan nakakalat nalang sa bahay!

Being dora, I've learned to manage our finances the hard way. If you're broke, don't resort to 5/6 or credit card cash advances. Swallow your pride than be in neck-deep debt. Ask your parents, your siblings, your friends. They are more than willing to help. But, please, stick to your word when it's pay time. Pay when you said you'll pay. If you can't, at least have the courtesy to let them know that you'll be a little delayed in paying them or ask them if you can pay them muna this amount and will give the rest some other time. Pero huwag naman one year yung "some other time". Be considerate, reasonable, and responsible.

Income - Savings = Expenses

It's truly important to save. If you cannot afford to open a bank account or invest in stocks or buy an insurance, take the simplest form of savings - the alkansya!!! Start with 50 bucks a day and in a year, you'll have 18,000.00. But what you get inside that piggy bank, don't get it out UNLESS it's an emergency. Hair rebond and tambay at Starbucks is NOT a 911.

And, it's good feng shui daw to say that "Konti lang pera ko." instead of "Wala akong pera."

I think I should start practicing what I just preached!!!

PS

I was browsing a parenting forum that I'm subscribed to and one of the posts is very timely and very inspiring. Let me share it with you:

"eto yung natutunan ko sa church namin.. (young single mom here)

7 Major Points in Budgeting

1. everything belongs to GOD
2. Pray. ask wisdom before spending.
3.record ALL income for the month
4.Give GOD what is RIGHT and not what is LEFT.
value of tithing Malachi 3:6-12; Luke 12:21
10%-tithes most important hindi pwedeng 5% LAW ni GOD yan bawal kumwestyon
%-offering kung magkano ang bukal sa loob mo..
%-savings kung magkano ang plano mo.
5.Budget from what is LEFT.
a. record all expense
b.allocate expenses on PRIORITY NEEDS ex. food,rent,bills and education
c.STICK to yor BUDGET(habit becomes a lifestyle)
6.Have ENVELOPE CASH
a. Buy abc's(no.5) only if there is money in envelopes
b. Pay in CASH Romans 13:8
7. Teach the system (tithing and budgeting) to your children Proverbs 22:6

7 DONT's in handling your Finances
1.Don't buy things if you don't have the budget for it.
2.Don't buy anything you don't need. 1timothy 6:6
3. Don't borrow to pay your debts.
4. Don't borrow to but things that depreciates
5.Don't borrow/lend at high interest
6.Don't gamble. Avoid vices
7.Don't be eager to get rich quickly. Proverbs 12:24

Grabe si GOD hindi tayo pababayaan pati sa pagbubudget nasa bible! Amazing! GOD bless everyone".

This was posted by SP full member mumzeth. You can read the original post here.

Parpolised is Threefic!!!

2011-08-06T01:11:00.003+08:00

Three years ago, I moved from Friendster-hosted blog to here. A lot have changed since then - my templates, my layouts, my topics, etc,etc. I started out as a self-centered blogger. It was just me, myself, and I. Then, I got married and had a kid and another kid. My blog changed with my life.

As tribute to Parpolised for 3 years of wonderful blogging, I'm sharing with you 12 random bits and pieces of trivia.

1. I only had 36 posts in my first year in Blogger.
2. My 1st post was From Friendster to Blogger.
3. My 1ooth post was 3 Things To Do on My 31st Year.
4. The post with the most comments generated was Mommy Moments - Rainbow Colors. It had 16 comments.
5. The 1st comment I received was on 08-28-08 from my dear friend and fellow blogger, Vayielicious. Unfortunately, 20+ comments are hosted by Haloscan and I can no longer retrieve it. Related story here.
6. The 1st "official" comment I received on Blogger was still from Vayielicious. And to date, she is my top commenter. Thanks, Vay!!!

A screenshot of my 1st "official" Blogger comment.

7. The 1st meme I participated in was Friday Fill-Ins hosted by Janet. Read here.
8. This is the 1st time I'm "celebrating" my blog's versary.
9. The "scientific name"of Parpolised is "Surprisingly Beautiful". In this post, I explained how the name came about.
10. The trending topics of Parpolised are "Milo" and "Pretzel". Ever since I've had children, I can't stop talking/writing about them.
11. The post with the most pageviews at 314 is Yammy Tintin for Mommy Nature.
12. Internet Explorer tops pageviews by browser at 3,098.

The draw for the giveaway is not pushing through at 9PM tonight. There weren't enough participants and there's this thing with DTI. Anyway, we're just happy to be three!!!

Mommy Moments: Super Hero

2011-08-05T00:17:00.005+08:00

Milo's 1st birthday cake was DC-themed.

Milo was Robin on his 1st birthday.

But, wait! These are not Milo's and Pretzel's superheroes. Their heroes are cuter, cuddlier, and more lovable - the Jollifriends!!!

Top (left to right): Popo, Jollibee, and Yum
Bottom (left to right): Twirlie, Jollifriends, and Hetty

More kids and their superheroes at Mommy Moments.

Have a safe and happy weekend everyone!!!

Yummy Sunday: Fresh Picks From The Backyard

2011-07-31T14:44:00.005+08:00

Fresh avocado and calamansi.
(Ano ba English ng calamansi?)

My aunt Gie is so lucky to have a backyard that is thriving with fruits. Their trees produce aplenty that she asks us to come over and pick fruits. I wish we also have a backyard that also produces fruits and not just puppies. ;)

PS
How many times did I mention fruits? LOL

Parpolised Turns Threefic: A 3rd Blogversary Giveaway Special

2011-07-26T13:39:00.009+08:00

Happy 3rd blogversary, Parpolised!!!

On August 6, Parpolised will turn threefic. Thank you to all my loyal reader(s) throughout the years. To express my gratitude, I have 30 followers now (hehehe), I've decided to have a blogversary giveaway.

The token(s) is/are not extravagant. Just a couple of items to show my appreciation. As of this writing, I'm thinking of giving away

1. "get the parpolised habit" shirt
2. PhP200.00 worth of Starbucks gcs
3. a loot bag containing kikay and mostly parpol items

I really haven't decided which to give. I might give one or might give all.

Contest Rules

Open to Philippine residents only.
Leave me a message here with the subject "Happy 3rd blogversary, Parpolised!!!" A valid email address is required (and an actual message, though not required, is highly appreciated). Don't worry. The form is private and only visible to me.
Winner must agree to take their picture with the item/s and send the picture to my email address.
Winner must agree that their picture will be posted here on my blog.
Only one entry per person is allowed.
There must a least be 15 entries by August 530, 2011 for the giveaway to be active.

The winner will be randomly drawn ~~August 6, 2011~~ at 9PM on the end of the month. I will inform the winner via the email address provided.

We are happy to be three.

Print Divas Photo Contests

2011-07-26T13:06:00.003+08:00

Hello Blogger Friends,

We need your "Likes".

1. Please LIKE Print Divas here.

2. LIKE our photo here.

Voting ends July 31st, 2011.

Thank you.

Yummy Sunday: Impromptu Baked Mac with Chunky Tomatoes

2011-07-24T22:08:00.004+08:00

I got hungry at past 10PM last night. Since wala akong mautusan to go to Ministop, I decided to cook na lang. I had no specific food in mind and rummaged through our fridge and pantry na lang for whatever I can cook. I saw a pack of elbow mac and a pouch of tomato sauce in the pantry and unused chunky tomatoes and leftover quezo de bola in the fridge.

So, at 11PM, I was whipping an impromptu Baked Mac and by midnight shared it with the rest of the family. We all enjoyed it.

I didn't know na masarap pala ang melted quezo de bola.

Impromptu Baked Mac with Chunky Tomatoes

Mommy Moments - Stores

2011-07-22T23:52:00.005+08:00

We are a family who loves to grocery shop. It is a family affair that no one dares to miss. We ♥ the supermarket and we're lucky to live near two - SM's Hypermarket and Robinson's Supermarket.

Milo and Pretzel enjoying our trip to the supermarket.

On weekends, we like to hangout at Starbucks SMF or UCC Trinoma. Yes, kids included, but caffeine's not.

Kayo? What's your favorite store?

A Commitment to Change : Coca-Cola is NOT!!!

2011-07-21T22:45:00.010+08:00

Before I turned 32 last year, I promised myself that I'd stop drinking Coke and all other sodas. I have diabetes. I know dapat huwag ng matigas ang ulo ko, but I cannot help it so I switched to the sugarless version. Not good pa din according to my doctor. Water na lang daw if I want to live longer. Of course, I want to. I want to see my grandkids pa noh!!!

I'm a heavy water drinker, but it seems that for every glass of water I take a glass of Coke din. You see what really scares me aside from the diabetes? My kids are also getting into the habitna. All of us at home are soda drinkers. There's "softdrink" on our table EVERY meal. If there's leftover pa from dinner,we have it pa in the morning. Others have coffee, we have Coke.

I am aware of the ill-effects of too much soda and I tried quitting in Januray 2001 (or 2002) as my New Year's resolution. I was good for four months until I had withdrawal symptoms. Bonggang-bonggang sakit ng ulo at throw-ups ang inabot ko for 3 effing days. Took a glass or two of Coke, rested, and when I woke up, I felt whole lot better. Coke and I reconciled and our love affair flourished. Parang 'til death do us part pero ako lang yung mamamatay!!!

No to Soda!!!

But some "good" things do not last. I now wish to end my probably 20, 25 years of love affair with Coke and other sodas. This time, I'm taking it seriously. This is why I blogged it. I want to make a commitment to the world. So, starting August 1,2011, I'd quit drinking Coke, etc. I'd start with baby steps, then run, and jump. For August, I'd stop having Coke every meal. Wala na sa lunch. In September, wala na sa lunch and dinner. By January 1, 2012 dapat recovered Coke addict na ako.

This is not a campaign against Coca-cola. This is my personal choice. Let's just say that I've had drank enough to last me a lifetime. Hindi naman sila malulugi dahil isang consumer lang naman ako. Suportado pa din sila ng nanay at kapatid ko.

Yummy Sunday: Food from the Bohol Bee Farm

2011-07-17T19:16:00.004+08:00

Our 4th pre-anniversary celebration was spent in this quaint resort in Dauis, Bohol more known as the Bohol Bee Farm.

Left: Spare Ribs
Right: Grilled Squid
Both were served with organic red rice, broiled camote, and organic green salad.

See that orangy-yellow flower on our salads?

Left: Yes, that's a flower.
Right: Pre-salad state.

The Organic Green Salad is made from "fresh picked assorted romaine lettuce, radish, turnips, mustard greens and indigenous flowers served with honeyed mustard salad dressing."

The verdict? Yummy!!!

Yummy Sunday: Jamico's Crispy Pata*

2011-07-03T00:07:00.004+08:00

Every carnivores dream...

Jamico's specialty, Judy Ann's XL crispy pata at only PhP 400! Super sulit! YUMMY!!!

*Jamico's is a hole-in-the-wall restaurant in Gen. Luna in Malabon, but the food, especially the crispy pata is really excellent.

Mommy Moments - Home

2011-07-01T20:36:00.006+08:00

It's the first week of July and it means a new series of Mommy Moments. I love the first set for this month - h♥me. No matter how chaotic it gets, home is still my most favorite place here on earth.

Here are some pictures of "home". Enjoy.

I personally chose to have my wedding preps at home. It may not be as comfortable as a hotel, but I prefer to come from where my heart is - our home.

Milo's 2nd birthday was simply celebrated at home with our family and friends.

Can you find the hidden Pretzel? ;)

"A house is made of walls and beams; a home is built with love and dreams"
-Author Unknown

Happy MoMo every one!!!

Yummy Sunday: Chili Cheesy Flautas

2011-06-26T17:00:00.005+08:00

This is my version of flautas. According to the freedictionary.com a flauta is "A corn tortilla rolled around a filling, such as beef, chicken, or cheese, into a thin cylinder and sometimes deep-fried."

I made this one rainy afternoon when I skipped work.

Deconstructing the flauta:

Pictures are from their respective owners.

Instead of corn tortilla, I used a lumpia wrapper since I cooked this impromptu. I sliced the sili lengthwise and removed the seeds. The cheese were sliced into strips. I rolled the sili and cheese strips in the wrapper and deep-fried it until golden brown. Yum-my!!!

It doesn't look good enough to eat in the picture, but once you've tasted it, nakaka-addict. Try it!!!

Mommy Moments - Father's Day 2011

2011-06-24T23:21:00.007+08:00

Unfortunately. Father's Day in our family is not as much celebrated as Mother's Day. At 12 mn, I just greeted and kissed my husband. When morning came, the kids greeted their Yaddy with their bulol version of Happy Father's Day. Kuya Milo sang Happy Birthday. Hahaha. We didn't mind since it's his Yaddy's birthday naman the next day.

The last three MoMos were dedicated to the father of my children. This final MoMo is for my father. As I've said, I may now have a last name, but I will always be my father's daughter. I love you, Papa.

Papa with his darling daughters and apo. Taken last Mother's Day 2010.

To end this series of MoMo, I'm sharing with you a video of one of my favorite songs of all time. Papa and I danced to this song on my wedding day.

Courtesy of YouTube.

Trivia from about.com: A Butterfly Kiss is a kiss that does not involve the lips. It is when two people put their eyes close to each other and flutter their eyelashes. Think blinking really fast while pressing your face to another person.

Tintin's Tip(s) No. 3: Pedia Visits

2011-06-19T16:27:00.005+08:00

Photo from http://www.zazzle.com/cute_doctor_teddy_bear_photosculpture-153332998202411127

When you have a toddler and a baby, bring them to the pedia separately. This will turn out to be less stressful as you won't have to to run after a super kulit toddler while soothing a fussy baby at the same time.

This tip was originally published in the July 2010 issue of Smart Parenting magazine.

All is well. Is it?

2011-06-19T15:09:00.004+08:00

Little is an understatement. Pagod na ako!!! Ikaw naman!!!

Birthday Wishes (Edited Version)

2011-06-19T14:00:00.000+08:00

I was back reading and saw this. I'm turning thirty-three in November and just for fun, I struck the wishes that were granted.

Grabbed this from http://www.jennyandbelle.com.

Rules:
1. Make a list of what you want on your birthday.
2. The list should be 10 numbers.
3. Post the image of this award in your posting.
~~4. Give it to 10 friends of yours.~~

OK. Here goes my wishlist.

~~a large tote/diaper bag for my everyday use~~ (But I want another one!)
a black, photo, clutch wallet
a pair of Lydia Winter Crocs in black
~~a copy of John Grisham's The Associate and Ford County~~
a pair of personalized sneakers from baubles, bangles n' beads
~~Red Ribbon's White Forest Cake~~ a digital sphygmomanometer
a digital camera OR ~~a mobile phone~~
Calvin Klein's Eternity for Women
~~to have a safe~~ and normal delivery. (Note: I delivered Pretzel via C-sec. Read here.
~~to be finally hired at COA~~

Since I just grabbed this, I'm not tagging anyone. If this interests you, feel free to repost it on your blog.

Five out of Ten. Not bad, huh?

Yummy Sunday: DIY Asian Salad with leftover chicken

2011-06-19T03:53:00.006+08:00

My purpose was only to return a fellow MoMo's blog visit and leave a comment when I stumbled upon another meme in her blog. It's the perfect meme for me. I ♥ food. I ♥ to cook and eat. Food is my drug of choice.

This is the 95th edition of Yummy Sunday and my first. It is hosted by "Perfectly Blended".

Most of the food photos I'll be sharing are taken with my phone's camera. I'm a foodie, not a techie. LOL

Here's my share for the week:

A peasant's dinner:
My own DIY version of Asian Salad with leftover chicken. Yummy.

Ingredients:
Lettuce, mangoes, cucumber, green and red bell pepper, leftover fried chicken, crotouns, pesto, and thousand island dressing.

Toss, chill, serve, and enjoy!!!

Mommy Moments - Daddy Moments

2011-06-17T14:09:00.005+08:00

To kick-off this week's MM, let me share (again) a poem I found on the Internet.

The Perfect Father

I love you because you're my father,
But you're really so much more;
You're a guide and a companion;
You and I have great rapport. You pay attention to me;
You listen to what I say.
You pass on words of wisdom,
Helping me along the way. Whenever I'm in trouble,
You always have a plan.
You are the perfect father,
And I'm your biggest fan!

By Karl and Joanna Fuchs

Yaddy with us at my bro's wedding last 5.25.2011.

Spot the 2 fathers here. My husband and my dad with the rest of the family.

My husband - the dad of my kids, and I.

Yaddy and us in a Trick or Treat event last year at Trinoma. Milo's 2nd, Pretzel's 1st.

Yaddy and us when Milo was barely a year old and our only child then.

The takaw family. LOL

Yaddy and us. The kids' 1st visit to Manila Zoo.

Yaddy and yabies fooling around my camera phone for their profile pic.

There will be more Yaddy moments as our children grow older. One day (hopefully not that soon), our beloved children will leave us and lead their own lives and the memories we had. we will always cherish. Aw! I' getting too sentimental here for my own taste. LOL

Father's Day and Rizal's 15oth birthday are on Sunday, but for our family, the celebration doesn't stop there. On Monday, June 2oth, it's Yaddy's 33rd birthday!!! Hurrah for 33 years of good and challenging life.

Happy birthday to the #1 man in my life. I'm you're biggest fan (literally and figuratively).
I love you to the fullest. Always and forever.

Mommy Moments - Love You Dad!

2011-06-10T19:13:00.007+08:00

Our kids are too young to profess their l♥ve to their Yaddy (our version of Daddy) through letters or artworks. When they get older, I hope they do. For the time being, let me share with you pictures of father and son and father and daughter.

Father & Son

Father & Daughter

I remember writing an essay about my Papa as a homework for my English class back in 7th grade. My teacher asked me to read it to the class. I don't exactly remember what I wrote, but my teacher must've been impressed. It's been a long time. I now carry a different last name, but I will always be my father's daughter.

My Papa and I on my wedding day.

To end this entry, let me share with you a beautiful poem I saw on the Internet about dads.

What Makes a Dad

God took the strength of a mountain,
The majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun,
The calm of a quiet sea,
The generous soul of nature,
The comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of the ages,
The power of the eagle's flight,
The joy of a morning in spring,
The faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity,
The depth of a family need,
Then God combined these qualities,
When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete,
And so,

He called it ... Dad

~~Author Unknown.~~

Mommy Moments - I am a Daddy!

2011-06-04T22:19:00.004+08:00

So my late posting for MM has become a bad habit. My apologies again. I was planning on skipping this month's MM, but when I saw the topics, I cannot resist. June is a special month for my husband. It's his birthday. Also, it's Father's Day. As a tribute to the #1 man in my life, I vow to complete this month's Mommy Moments.

I first got pregnant in 2006 and we were both shocked and surprised. We both thought that we're not capable of having babies. After the shock and surprise wore off, we were just simply happy, but after a couple of weeks, we learned that I was having a missed abortion. At 9 weeks and 5 days, the baby in my tummy, which we called "Gon", showed no signs of cardiac activity. The happiness we felt suddenly turned in to gloom and despair. Read more here.

We have no pictures of who could have been our first born. All we have left are ultrasound reports. Pictures of our little one looking like a kidney bean, but for Jowell and I, that was the most beautiful kidney bean we have seen.

Here lies our angle, Gon.
12.05.06

As the cliche goes, when God closes a door, Mama Mary opens a window, and she opened two windows for us. After the tragic incident in 2006, we were blessed with two wonderful children in 2008 and 2009, respectively. You can read Milo's birthing story here and Pretzel's here.

In both instances, Jowell was overjoyed. He's dream of becoming a daddy has been fulfilled twice.

Jowell and Milo in 2008.

Jowell and Pretzel in 2009.

Fatherhood is a huge responsibility. While Jowell scores low on this department at times, he tries and tries again. He never gives up and I believe that one day he'll score a 99.99% on fatherhood. For the meantime, here's a and a for him to keep him inspired.

Mommy Moments - Rainbow Colors

2011-04-22T03:07:00.005+08:00

"Red and yellow and pink and green,
Purple and orange and blue,
I can sing a rainbow,
sing a rainbow,
sing a rainbow too!"

For Mommy Moments, the colors of the rainbow are not limited to seven. All colors from the Crayola box are welcome.

This was one of the desserts table at The Cafe Jeepney at Hotel Intercon.
This was taken by my good friend Ieni when we had our dinner buffet there recently.

The cheerful Mean Girls. You'll never know how mean we truly are. LOL
Vayie took the pic and Tin was MIA.

And this is probably the most colorful of them all.
My boyfriends and I at Pretzel's 1st birthday last December 20.

While this week's topic is marked by cheerfulness or good spirits, let us not forget that today is also Good Friday. Let me share with you a prayer I saw on the web.

Good Friday Prayer

"O Jesus, Who by reason of Thy burning love for us
hast willed to be crucified
and to shed Thy Most Precious Blood
for the redemption and salvation of our souls,
look down upon us here gathered together
in remembrance of Thy most sorrowful Passion and Death,
fully trusting in Thy mercy;
cleanse us from sin by Thy grace,
sanctify our toil,
give unto us and unto all those who are dear to us our
daily bread,
sweeten our sufferings,
bless our families,
and to the nations so sorely afflicted,
grant Thy peace,
which is the only true peace,
so that by obeying Thy commandments
we may come at last to the glory of heaven.

Amen."

Mommy Moments - Birthday Photo

2011-04-15T23:10:00.008+08:00

Aside from Christmastime, birthdays are my favorite occasions. I'm a walking birthday calendar. I seldom forget birthdays. Even my favorite and oldest stuff toy has a birthday. LOL

For this week, I'm sharing my darling babies' most recent birthdays.

Milo's 2nd 4.27 was humbly celebrated at home with family and friends.

Pretzel's 1st 12.20 was celebrated more extravagantly at Jollibee where the adults enjoyed the party more than the kids.

And as for me, my 32nd birthday was celebrated 2 or 3 days early. It was spent Trick or Treating with the kids and the rest of the family at Trinoma. We just had lunch at Super Bowl of China after collecting tons of treats and had dessert at UCC afterwards.

My 32nd 11.3. Fun!

Aren't birthdays fun whether you're the celebrator or the financier? LOL

Mommy Moments - Summer Plans

2011-04-10T00:19:00.010+08:00

It looks like my first entry for every Mommy Moments every month is always a day or two late. My bad! I will try to post on time next month.

For this month, the categories/topics are:

April 8 - Summer Plans April 15 - Birthday Photo April 22 - Rainbow Colors April 29 - Black and White

Here is my share for the week.

With the sunshiny Metro Manila weather since January, the kids' summer officially started when we brought them to the zoo in February. It was their first time. I had more fun than they did. LOL We are planning to bring them to Zoobic Safari before the summer ends.

Milo and Pretzel with Yaddy and Yammy at the Manila Zoo.

A few weeks later, we decided to get them an inflatable pool to keep them occupied and prepare them for or upcoming getaway for Milo's 3rd birthday in April. We are planning to go to Amana Waterpark in Bulacan or rent a private pool in Laguna. For the meantime, we let 'em splash in their inflatable pool.

Milo and Pretzel enjoying the sun in their almost waterless inflatable pool. ;)

We went to Tagaytay last December to attend a wedding and we plan to take the kids there again.

Milo and Pretzel with Mama Lola and Papa Lolo.

According to PAGASA, summer has not officially started, but with my kids, as long as the sun is shining, summer has begun.

PS We also plan to have our family portrait taken this summer. :)

Death of Common Sense

2011-04-09T22:47:00.004+08:00

Reposting from a friend's Note in Facebook.

(Image courtesy ofhttp://agoodchoice.blogspot.com/2009/06/when-common-sense-died.html)

"An Obituary printed in the London Times - Interesting and true.

Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Common Sense, who has been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was, since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape. He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as:

- Knowing when to come in out of the rain;

- Why the early bird gets the worm;

- Life isn't always fair;

- and maybe it was my fault.

Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don't spend more than you can earn) and reliable strategies (adults, not children, are in charge).

His health began to deteriorate rapidly when well-intentioned but overbearing regulations were set in place. Reports of a 6-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition.

Common Sense lost ground when parents attacked teachers for doing the job that they themselves had failed to do in disciplining their unruly children.

It declined even further when schools were required to get parental consent to administer sun lotion or an aspirin to a student; but could not inform parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.

Common Sense lost the will to live as the churches became businesses; and criminals received better treatment than their victims.

Common Sense took a beating when you couldn't defend yourself from a burglar in your own home and the burglar could sue you for assault.

Common Sense finally gave up the will to live, after a woman failed to realize that a steaming cup of coffee was hot. She spilled a little in her lap, and was promptly awarded a huge settlement.

Common Sense was preceded in death, by his parents, Truth and Trust, by his wife, Discretion, by his daughter, Responsibility, and by his son, Reason.

He is survived by his 4 stepbrothers;

I Know My Rights

I Want It Now

Someone Else Is To Blame

I'm A Victim

Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone. If you still remember him, pass this on. If not, join the majority and do nothing."

Mommy Moments - White

2011-03-25T23:13:00.004+08:00

We've had orange, green, and purple. Now, it's time for white.

Milo at 6 months old. This is his pre-christening get up - a white undershirt and underwear. He doesn't seem to like white noh?

Pretzel at 6 months old wearing her off-white baptism gown. Now, this is someone who appears to like white!

I look forward to more memes from The Mommy Journey! Happy weekend!!!

Mommy Moments - Purple

2011-03-18T10:56:00.005+08:00

Milo is MIA in this entry. He doesn't have a purple shirt and I can't find a single picture of him holding Barney (the purple dino) or him sleeping on his little sister's purple pillow or maski a picture of the time he had a fall and had a purplish bruise. Oh, well. Pretzel has some from her younger years and here's one when she was barely a month old.

Donned in all-purple for her 1st pedia visit.

PS

I had a feeling that Milo had something purple somewhere and I was right. Check it out!

Milo with Pretzel and Mommy wearing a purple dress.

Mommy Moments - Green

2011-03-11T21:05:00.005+08:00

Milo wears green to support our team in COA Week last year.

6-month old Pretzel in her cute green onesy.

Mommy Moments - Orange

2011-03-05T00:25:00.007+08:00

Weebee to me! Hahaha. To keep this blog a little active than usual, I found another meme at The Mommy Journey. This happens every Friday, but since I was busy the entire day, my very first attempt was 29 minutes delayed. Better late than never. ;)

The topic for the month of March is colors.

March 4 - Orange
March 11 - GreenMarch 18 - PurpleMarch 25 -White

Milo wearing an orange pumpkin pail as a hat.

Pretzel sleeping in her orange daster.

Stage Yammy: Picture Six

2010-12-27T23:56:00.003+08:00

Yammy admiring Pretzel's new 'do. This is our version of Dora. Hahaha.

Happy Holidays

2010-12-25T04:57:00.001+08:00

Stage Yammy: Picture Five

2010-12-22T16:44:00.006+08:00

Kuya MiLo is a little over 3 feet. He's just 2 and a half years old. Would he be as tall as Papa Lolo kaya at 6 feet tall?

Stage Yammy: Picture Four

2010-11-27T15:44:00.004+08:00

Si Milo at Ang Christmas Tree

Isang araw ay walang magawa si Milo
Pinilit niyang abutin ang star sa dulo
Hinila ang garland at natumba ang Puno ng Pasko
Buti na lang mabilis tumakbo si Milo.

Bow.

PS Ito ay totoong kwento.

Stage Yammy: Picture Three

2010-10-21T18:03:00.004+08:00

Pretzel turned 10 months old yesterday. Apologies for the shots. Our baby is afraid of the camera.

Thursday Thunks No. 14

2010-10-21T15:40:00.010+08:00

I'm back to TTing after over a year of being MIA. I kinda miss this. Let's see if I can still do this.

1. Berleen is sending you away again. You can travel anywhere in the world; one destination per day from Friday through Monday. Where do you go and why?
Friday: Alaska - I saw this documentary on TV once and I was instantly fascinated with the scenery.
Saturday: Batanes Islands, Philippines - It's a quaint, little town up north that boasts beauty and enchantment.

Batanes, Philippines - Who wouldn't want to be here?

Sunday: South Korea - I want to visit Lotte World, taste an authentic kimchi and other Korean delicacies, and meet and greet Goo Joon Pyo. Hahaha.

Lee Min Ho as Goo Joon Pyo. I ♥.

Monday: Palau - Same as Alaska.

2. Would you keep a secret from the closest person to you if you thought it was in their best interest?
Uhm, yes... no... maybe? I'll cross the bridge when I get there.

3. Tell me one odd/interesting fact about you that you have not revealed in some other crazy meme.
After having 2 babies, I've permanently crossed out "making love" on my To Do list. Abstinence is my birth control of choice. My poor husband. Tsk, tsk, tsk.

4. You can have three wishes (for yourself, so forget all the 'world peace etc' BS) - what are they?
To lose weight without having to on a diet and exercise; To be a stay-at-home mom and still not worry about our finances; To travel the world with my husband and children

5. If you could change anything about your living situation, would you?
Yes. I'd love to live in our own house and have our own rules. Living with my parents have tons of benefits, but we would want to be "free".

6. Who is your favorite character from a comic strip? Please post one strip for us to laugh at.

7. Now we have found you dead. What five people do you want to MEET in Heaven?
our baby that we never got to see, Kurt Cobain, Albert Einstein, Ferdinand E. Marcos, and God ;)

8. So since you are dead, what will the title of your life story be?
Dead at 31 - The Unfinished Business of little_tin_star

9. Word association time! What's the first thing that comes to mind when you see the word pleasure?
rest and recreation

10. Kimber is by the Arizona ocean. She finds a message in a bottle. What does it say?
Dear Kimber,
What is the color of a bad back?
From little_tin_star

11. Would you like to guest host Thunks one week? Answer “yes” here and email us here! If the answer is “no” who do you think would be a great guest host?
No. Ryan Seacrest?!? LOL

I'm done.

Work and Play at Leyte

2010-10-16T13:34:00.040+08:00

Every payday I regret resigning from Sutherland and moving to the Commission on Audit (COA), but every day in between, I know I made the right choice.

I've been with COA for only 8 months as leave-in-charge and I was given the opportunity to travel to our regional office in Leyte. Maybe it's not your dream destination, but I tell you Tacloban rocks and it's worth a visit. It's way better than Baguio in my humble opinion. Anyway, it was a working trip and we only got a day and a half to enjoy the sights and sounds. I'm definitely going back, but going to check-in a hotel rather than the COA dorm.

The dorm was an eyesore. It was left unfinished by the contractor. There were wooden scaffoldings everywhere, cobwebs, cracks on the wall, and a "ghost" roving the corridor at night. It was a pitiful (and scary) sight.

The dorm at COA Regional Office No. VIII. Something should be done quick!

Nonetheless, it was the only setback in our pleasurable trip. The people of Leyte were warm and easy to get along with. Maybe they were just being extra nice because we were visitors with a purpose (insert evil laugh here). You want to know how nice they were? They fed us lechon for lunch and had eat-all-you-can dinner TWICE in a row. I probably gained another kilo or two in my 3-day stay. Heaven forbid.

Eat-all-you-can dinner No. 1 at Stephanie's courtesy of Ma'am Ethel and Ma'am Rose.

Eat-all-you-can dinner No. 2 still at Stephanie's courtesy of COA Region 8.

On dinner number 1, I had, brace yourselves, 4 plates including dessert. On dinner number 2, I only had 3 including dessert. I had yummy Tacloban lechon on both nights. Sinful!

My dinner plates at dinner number 2.

We didn't eat lng naman the whole time we were there. We drove all the way to San Juanico Bridge just to have our pictures takes. The scenery was breathtaking. Sana I had a better camera and was a better photographer.

No stopping any time dapat pero dahil naka-red plate kami at mga taga-COA pa, deadma sila.

Kodakan at San Juanico Bridge.

We were in Samar in less than an hour.

At the "Pamunuan San Lalawigan Sa Leyte". This is where the governor holds office.

At the Leyte Park Resort Hotel.

At the Balyuan Ampitheater.

At the Sto. Nino Church.

After all the eating we did, we took a walk from COA to McArthur Park to burn all the excess carbs we packed. Malayo siya, promise. But, the view at the end was worth it.

The beginning of our trek to McArthur Park.

Hello, McArthur!!!

At the end our long walk.

Our trip to Leyte was short and sweet. It opened a window of possibility that when Jowell and I decide to leave the metro, we'd consider relocating in Tacloban. May UP naman dun, eh! Hahaha.

Thank you to the warm and beautiful people of COA Region 8 namely Ma'am Malou, Ma'am Odin, Ate Miray, Lyken, Ma'am Rose, Ma'am Ethel, Ate Esther, Mang Dong, and Mang Mario. My gratitude also extends to Dir. Ariesga, his staff, and the rest of COA Region VIII.

I will be back. Not for work, but for more play!

Stage Yammy: Picture Two

2010-09-21T20:05:00.002+08:00

September 21, 2010
My cute chocolate monster.

Stage Yammy: Picture One

2010-09-20T20:26:00.004+08:00

September 20, 2010
MiLo built a block tower almost as tall as him.

Yammy Tintin for Mommy Nature

2010-09-02T22:40:00.002+08:00

Before I became a mom myself, caring for Mommy Nature was not a priority. It was only when I had Milo that I started to become more conscious of the environment. I have not converted myself to a hardcore treehugger, but I exert effort to reuse, reduce, and recycle. My kids inspire me to do a good deed every single day for Mommy Nature.

For today, my good deed is to reduce the carbon dioxide emission of my blog by participating here and becoming a carbon neutral blog. I hope you'd also make this as your good deed for the day.

30-Day Challenge: Day 30

2010-08-08T23:33:00.005+08:00

Day 30 - Who are you?

I am a queen who loves her king and her prince and princess.

30-day Challenge: Day 29

2010-08-07T22:47:00.001+08:00

Day 29- In this past month, what have you learned?

The greatest form of hurt/hurting comes from persons who matter to you. While time may heal all wounds and you have learned to forgive, scars are left and you may never forget. I wish there's an "Undo" button. We need it sometimes, don't we? Unfortunately, reality sinks in. What has been done has been done and what has been said has been said. Sorry, but no "Undo" buttons for us. Not now, at least. Maybe in a couple of years. Maybe longer. Hopefully shorter. We are family, after all.

30-day Challenge: Day 28

2010-08-07T22:45:00.002+08:00

Day 28- A picture of you last year and now, how have you changed since then?

With my sister, Chelly, @ Circle of Fun, December 2009.

Obviously, a lot has changed since then. First, I'm no longer pregnant., but weigh more or less the same. LOL Pretzel is almost 8 months old. Second, I've resigned na from Sutherland and presently working at the Commission on Audit. I regret resigning come payday, but I feel that I made the right choice in between. Third, the Mean Girls were just my friends, now they are my kumares. This seals our friendship. We are now committed to each other for life. Girls, tandaan ang sinabi ni father, ha? Tutulungan nyo ko mag-paaral sa Ateneo. Hahaha. Fourth, the gestational diabetes I had at that time, unfortunately, has turned into a full-blown diabetes. Tsk, tsk, tsk. Lastly, I used to be happy. Now, I'm happier.

30-day Challenge: Day 27

2010-08-05T20:28:00.002+08:00

Day 27- Why are you doing this 30 day challenge

First and foremost, I felt that my blog was pretty much neglected that I had to make it up with her. Yes, I consider my blog a "her". I needed to resurrect her.

Second, the challenge appeared to be interesting.

And lastly, it gave me other things to do while on the internet.

30-day Challenge: Day 26

2010-08-04T22:39:00.002+08:00

Day 26- What you think about your friends

30-day Challenge: Day 25

2010-08-03T20:46:00.004+08:00

Day 25- What I would find in your bag

Let's take a look.

Top left: scrapbook letter sticker, my outdated mobile phone, office ID, eye glasses, a specimen container, and wallet
Top right: kikay kit, baby cologne, facial tissue, alcohol
Bottom left: Starbucks planner, HP planner, a small notebook

30-day Challenge: Day 24

2010-08-02T20:47:00.002+08:00

Day 24- A letter to your parents

Warning: This could be too sentimental for your taste. ;)

Dear Papa and Mama,

Thank you is not enough to describe how grateful I am that God chose you to be my parents. Your love is immeasurable. Your kindness knows no boundaries. Your understanding is limitless. I am truly blessed.

You were my first friends. I shared my first tears and laughter with you. You were my first teachers. I learned sharing, trust, loyalty, integrity, and love from you. You were my first critics. I learned to laugh at my own mistakes and be better the next time around. I am what I am today because of you.

Papa, I have always wanted to marry someone like you. Someone who is strong on principles, but soft on children (and dogs). Someone who works hard to provide for our needs, but finds the time to take us to the park. Someone who is serious when dealing with important matters, but laughs the first during playtime. Jowell is close, but you'll forever be the number 1 man in my life.

Mama, I have always wanted to be like you. You have a successful career, a happy married life, and surrounded with lots of people who truly love you. You are a good lawyer, a better wife, and the best mother (and Mama Lola).

For all the good things you have shared with me, I'm going to pay it forward.

30-day Challenge: Day 23

2010-08-01T02:47:00.003+08:00

Day 23- Something you crave for a lot

Lately, I've been craving for...

Picture from http://www.carvel.com/products/products.htm

Can somebody indulge me? ;)

30-day Challenge: Day 22

2010-08-01T02:16:00.002+08:00

Day 22- What makes you different from everyone else

This was supposed to be posted yesterday, but my DSL connection was at its worse. Anyway, I don't see my self any differently from every one. I'm fat, but so is my little brother Eboy. I'm 5'8" tall and so Rihanna. I've 2 kids, a boy and a girl, so does my colleague Jen. I'm not special, eh!

Oh, oh, oh!!! Now, I remember. I'm Mrs. Happy Hormones. I'm the silver lining after the storm, the one who sees the glass half-full, the one who says "2 oras na lng" instead of "2 oras pa" while waiting for the shift to end. I know there are other Miss/Mrs. Happy Hormones out there, but what makes me different from them are the people that I make happy with my disposition in life.

30-day Challenge: Day 21

2010-07-30T19:16:00.002+08:00

Day 21- A picture of something that makes you happy

The essence of my being - my children.

30-day Challenge: Day 20

2010-07-29T20:13:00.004+08:00

Day 20- Someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future

I've married him. :) God's gift to me, my Jowell.

30-day Challenge: Day 19

2010-07-28T20:17:00.004+08:00

Day 19- Nicknames you have; why do you have them

Growing up, my parents and relatives, called me Tingting (as in broomstick), which proved to ironic as I didn't grow up as thin as a walis tingting.

It was my kindergarten teacher, Teacher Nong, that called me Tintin. She asked me what my nickname is and I told her Tingting. She must have misheard it as Tintin or intentionally dropped the ng to make it sound more sosyal. Hahaha.

Then, my 6th grade best friend, Anna Mendoza, gave me the nickname Tetay. Our English teacher, Miss Maminta, called me Cristeta instead of Cristina in her roll call, thus, the birth of Tetay.

30-day Challenge: Day 18

2010-07-27T21:01:00.004+08:00

Day 18- Plans/dreams/goals you have

PLANS

My topmost plan is NOT to get pregnant again! We already have a pair who are only a year, 7 months, and 23 days apart. Children are blessings, but we cannot afford to have a new baby.

Second on my list (and last for the time being) is Pretzel's first birthday on December 20th. As early as now, I'm scouting for suppliers. But, I have to discuss with Jowell if we're having it on the exact date or move it to a later date, say December 26th.

DREAMS

Rooms and More Rooms in Luxury Homes by Roberta Murphy

www.luxuryhomedigest.com/2007/12...y-rooms/

I'm a dreamer. I dream in the morning. I dream at night. Mostly, I dream of a good life for my family and I. I dream of living in a luxurious home and driving a luxurious car. I dream of sending the kids to the best school. I dream of being a stay-at-home mom and just take care of the family. I dream of publishing my own book. I dream of traveling the world. See, I'm not just a dreamer. I'm a BIG dreamer.

GOALS

My goals are to achieve my plans and make my dreams a reality.

30-day Challenge: Day 17

2010-07-26T00:55:00.003+08:00

Day 17- Someone you would want to switch lives with for one day and why

I want to switch lives with Pretzel. Hahaha. Seriously, I want to experience babyhood again. Life is less complicated when you're a tiny tot. You just eat and sleep and you just let the grown-ups worry about every thing.

30-day Challenge: Day 16

2010-07-25T16:51:00.003+08:00

Day 16- Another picture of yourself

Me on my wedding day. Hair and make-up by Lawrence Chan. I ♥ him for making me affordably beautiful on my special day.

30-day Challenge: Day 15

2010-07-24T00:47:00.004+08:00

Day 15- Put your iPod on shuffle: First 10 songs that play

Unfortunately, I don't have an iPod. We have iTunes installed though for my bro's iPhone and my sis' iTouch. I hope that this will suffice.

Click image to enlarge.

I'm half-way through with the challenge. Happy weekend, everyone!

30-day Challenge: Day 14

2010-07-23T23:26:00.004+08:00

Day 14- A picture of you and your family

Before I was a "dela Cruz", I was a Corpuz. Well, I still am. So, when you say "family", I always think of my "Corpuz" family and my own family "dela Cruz". I present the loves of my life to you.

My last day as "dalaga." Bru, Mama, me, Papa, Chelly, and Eboy.

2.5 years later. Me with Pretzel and Jowell with Milo.

I ♥ them all.

30-day Challenge: Day 13

2010-07-22T21:07:00.003+08:00

Day 13- A letter to someone who has hurt you recently

Dear Uncles J and F,

I have nothing against you or your actions. You just did what you thought was right. Papa had to what he thinks is right, too. I just hope that all will end well. We are family after all.

30-day Challenge: Day 12

2010-07-21T20:43:00.002+08:00

Day 12- How you found out about Blogger and why you made one

I discovered Blogger through my batchmate in UPIS, Nikki Abanto-Orcino. I didn't start blogging with Blogger. Instead I kept a blog with Friendster. When I reached the quota for pictures/images, that's when I decided to move to Blogger na. Read my 1st blogger entry here.

30-day Challenge: Day 11

2010-07-20T21:00:00.004+08:00

Day 11- Another picture of you and your friends

My friends from PCTv.

Uno Animo invades Dads Glorietta.

Date with Sheqs at Chili's.

30-day Challenge: Day 10

2010-07-19T21:16:00.002+08:00

Day 10- Songs you listen to when you are Happy, Sad, Bored, Hyped, Mad

Not applicable. I seldom listed to music now. When I'm happy, sad, bored, hyped, and mad, I sleep or read or watch TV or eat. I do not resort to "music tripping" na. When I was younger, around high school, yes, I was a fan. I'd listen to GnR, Pearl Jam, or Metallica. Music, sadly, has lost its appeal to me.

30-day Challenge: Day 09

2010-07-18T23:09:00.003+08:00

Day 09- Something you’re proud of in the past few days

This is what I'm proud of every day. In spite of being a chronic late-comer, I always do my tasks effectively and efficiently. I do my work diligently and even take the extra mile if necessary.

This is what I'm proud of in the past few days. I haven't skipped work once since the start of July. Very good to me.

This is what I'm proud of today. Cooked two full-meals, i.e, lunch and dinner, that proved to be a hit with the the entire household. I'm now doing the cooking every weekend.

30-day Challenge: Day 08

2010-07-17T00:08:00.003+08:00

Day 08- Short term goals for this month and why

I have 3 short-term goals for July. First, to have a complete attendance at work. Second, to attend the last 2 flag ceremonies (raising and retreat). Reason is simple, I don't want to merit a memo. And third, to start working on the new task delegated to me. With Gary's re-assignment to PIO, 300 personnel, give or take, were transferred to me. Sana may increase din ako sa sweldo at hindi lang sa workload. LOL

30-day Challenge: Day 07

2010-07-16T19:42:00.003+08:00

Day 07- A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you

Amongst all the people I know, my Lola Conching has made the biggest impact on me. She has driven me to be the best person I can be in spite of my obesity.

"Sa mga pangdi-discourage na natanggap ko mula sa kanila, dalawa ang tumatak sa aking isipan. Pareho silang nagmula sa mga labi ng lola ko. Una, hindi raw ako makakapag-boyfriend at ikalawa, hindi raw ako makakapasok ng trabaho. Ang dahilan niya: mataba daw kasi ako. “Eh, ano ngayon,” naisip ko. Hindi ko iyon kawalan. Defense mechanism ko lang iyon syempre. Pero ang totoo noon ay napaisip ako. Totoo kaya ang sinabi ng lola ko? Magkahalong takot at pangamba ang nadama ko pero hindi iyon sapat na dahilan upang sumuko ako sa laban kong nagsisimula pa lang." - little_tin_star, At The Executive Lounge

Her words were harsh, but I've forgiven her a long time ago. I didn't take it against her. In fact, I loved her more for it. She has strengthen my spirit.

30-day Challenge: Day 06

2010-07-15T20:21:00.003+08:00

Day 06- Favorite super hero and why

Pre-marriage, my favorite superhero is Batman. He's human. His parents are ordinary folks and he has no out-of-this-world powers. As per Wikipedia, "he makes use of intellect, detective skills, science and technology, wealth, physical prowess, and intimidation in his continuous war on crime."

Post-marriage, it's THE BEE. Hahaha. Jollibee has saved me a lot of times from may sumpong na Milo. Hahaha.

30-day Challenge: Day 05

2010-07-14T20:52:00.006+08:00

Day 05- A picture of somewhere you’ve been to

Puerto Galera, May 2005.

My first ever trip and first out of town trip with then-boyfriend-now-husband to Puerto Galera, Mindoro. We haven't gone back ever since.

Enchanted Kingdom, December 2005.

My nth visit to EK and my first visit with Jowell. Hindi pa ulit kami nakakabalik together. Enchanted Kingdom is my happy place on earth. Will definitely go back with the kids.

30-day Challenge: Day 04

2010-07-13T20:28:00.004+08:00

Day 04- A habit that you wish you didn’t have

A habit that I wish that I don't have is tardiness. I'm almost always running late for some reason. Gumising man ako ng maaga, nala-late pa din ako. To be punctual or at least to be on time tops my New Year's resolution list every year. I'm willing to be hypnotized just to get rid of this very, very awful habit. LOL Seriously, everyday I'm trying overcome this. Some days I'm successful. Some days I fail. I'll keep on trying until I triumph over it.

30-day Challenge: Day 03

2010-07-12T21:02:00.003+08:00

Day 03- A picture of you and your friends

My oldest friends to date, my kumares Abbey and Sheqs.

My friends from La Salle on my wedding day.

The Mean Girls.

With the newest Mean Girl, Khim.

My latest set of friends from COA.

And to all of them this I say and I quote:
"Friends are the most important ingredient in this recipe of life."

30-day Challenge: Day 02

2010-07-11T01:21:00.004+08:00

Day 02- The meaning behind your Blogger name

This got me thinking for like 5 minutes. Does "Blogger name" refer to the title of my blog or my username in Blogger? I'd go with the first interpretation na lang.

"Surprisingly Beautiful" was an accident. I was looking through old photos and I saw a beautiful shot of me. I thought "Uy, maganda din naman pala ako maski mataba ako." Hahaha. That's how it started. Then, as time went by, the meaning evolved na din. Now, "Surprisingly Beautiful" is the summary of my life. It is imperfect, but at the end of the day, I still find beauty in its imperfections.

30-day Challenge: Day 01

2010-07-10T22:11:00.007+08:00

Day 01- A recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself

A blurry, most recent picture of me with the husband and the kids.

My first name "Cristina" means "follower of Christ". My maiden name "Corpuz" is "from the Latin personal name Corpus Christi, literally ‘body of Christ’, a Christian festival" and my married name "dela Cruz" means "one who came from, or lived near a cross".
My favorite color is purple. I also like lavender, violet, and lilac.
I've been hypertensive since I was 18 years old and has been taking maintenance drugs ever since. Now, I'm also a diabetic.
I'm a certified bookaholic.
I'm currently hooked with Mafia Wars Game on Facebook. Join my Mafia. Hahaha.
I went to school at the tender age of two as a salimpusa, but graduated rather late at 22 years old. Spent 4 years and 1 trimester in college instead of just 3 years.
I seldom put my hair down. I don't like hair strands getting on my face.
I suffered from alopecia when I was in 3rd or 4th grade.
I put ketchup on most food I eat. Yes, I'm your ketchup girl.
My Body Mass Index or BPI is 28.8 and according to BMI categories, I'm just overweight and not obese. LOL
The only thing I miss about being single ay ang pag-gastos ng walang humpay sa mga luho. Hahaha.
I wasthisclose to being a script writer, but realized that I cannot make a job out of the thing that I love doing the most. Writing is a hobby and I'd lose a very precious hobby if it becomes my job.
Since the time I graduated in 2001, I've had 7 jobs. I was a txtjock, a call (center) girl 4x, a concept developer trainee for S-files, and currently an HR practitioner at the Commission on Audit.
I was a a lacto-ovo vegetarian for 3 months back in 2006. I missed meat and quit.
My secret dream job is to be a member of the CIA.

Whew!!! It took me almost 2 hours to finish this. I had fun, though. Day 2 coming up tomorrow.

30-day Challenge

2010-07-10T21:40:00.004+08:00

I was blog-hopping and chanced upon this really interesting post by Mae (a n@wie sister) in her blog, Lifetime of Togetherness. I've been an on/off blogger ever since the arrival of baby number 2 and this task, challenged me, so to speak.

Day 01- A recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself
Day 02- The meaning behind your Blogger name
Day 03- A picture of you and your friends
Day 04- A habit that you wish you didn’t have
Day 05- A picture of somewhere you’ve been to
Day 06- Favorite super hero and why
Day 07- A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you
Day 08- Short term goals for this month and why
Day 09- Something you’re proud of in the past few days
Day 10- Songs you listen to when you are Happy, Sad, Bored, Hyped, Mad
Day 11- Another picture of you and your friends
Day 12- How you found out about Blogger and why you made one
Day 13- A letter to someone who has hurt you recently
Day 14- A picture of you and your family
Day 15- Put your iPod on shuffle: First 10 songs that play
Day 16- Another picture of yourself
Day 17- Someone you would want to switch lives with for one day and why
Day 18- Plans/dreams/goals you have
Day 19- Nicknames you have; why do you have them
Day 20- Someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future
Day 21- A picture of something that makes you happy
Day 22- What makes you different from everyone else
Day 23- Something you crave for a lot
Day 24- A letter to your parents
Day 25- What I would find in your bag
Day 26- What you think about your friends
Day 27- Why are you doing this 30 day challenge
Day 28- A picture of you last year and now, how have you changed since then?
Day 29- In this past month, what have you learned
Day 30- Who are you?

Day 30 ends on August 8th. I hope I can do this. I know I can do this. Wish me luck, people.

Pretzel's First Bowl of Solid Food

2010-06-28T20:57:00.003+08:00

Pretzel takes a spoonful of mashed squash.
May 29, 2010

Favorite Things

2010-05-02T00:58:00.005+08:00

An overdue tag from Vayie.

Flats: I'm 5'8" tall and weigh around 180+ lbs and the most logical footwear of choice is flats unless I want to standout BIG time.
White and silver Christmas edition Havs: This is my most comfortable pair of Havs to date.
Omax wristwatch given by Jowell: Aside from the fact that it was a gift from my husband, the hint of purple/lavender on the face makes it an instant favorite.
Books: I'm a bookaholic. Read here.
MnP: Siyempre naman! Just look at them. Aren't they adorable?
Ketchup: A childhood favorite that remained.
Goody wide-tooth comb: I've had this comb forever. Untangles my hair well.
Mercury Drugstore glass: It's the biggest glass in the house and I drink a lot at during mealtimes and nakakapagod magpabalik-balik sa water dispenser to refill.
scrapblog.com: Makes scrapbooking a breeze. Love, love this site.

Ikaw, what are your favorite things?

Pretzel's First Pedia Visit

2010-04-10T16:47:00.003+08:00

January 04, 2010
@ FEU-Marian Rm. 319

List of Philippine Holidays 2010

2010-03-20T08:30:00.002+08:00

List lifted from Byahilo.

Year 2010’s legal holidays as listed in the Presidential Proclamation 1841 are as follows:

January 1 – New Year’s Day
April 1 – Maundy Thursday
April 2 – Good Friday
April 9 -Araw ng Kagitingan
May 1 – Labor Day
May 10- National elections
June 14 – Independence Day (June 14, Monday nearest June 12)
August 30 – National Heroes Day (August 30, last Monday of August)
November 29 – Bonifacio Day (November 29, Monday nearest November 30)
December 25 – Christmas Day
December 27 – Rizal Day (December 27, Monday nearest December 30)

The Special Holidays are as follows:

February 22 – EDSA Day (Holiday for Schools)
August 23 – Ninoy Aquino Day (August 23, Monday nearest Aug August 23),
November 1 – All Saints Day
December 24 – Christmas Eve
December 31- Last day of the year

The dates for the Eid’l Fitr and Eidl Adha 2010 has yet to be determined.

Confessions of a Bookaholic

2010-03-16T16:34:00.005+08:00

I just got home from the bookstore with my latest loot - John Grisham's Ford Country Stories. Two weeks ago, I purchased JG's The Associate. I was not happy with my purchases. Nabitin ako. I want another book or two or maybe three or four. Ah! Too many books, too little time.

I'm Cristina dela Cruz and I'm a bookaholic.

My love affair with books started years back and I mean way, way back when I was six or seven years old. I'm 31, by the way. My first lover was this rather old and thick book of assorted stories from Rapunzel to Pippi Longstocking to the Musicians of Bremen. It was love at first sight, so to speak. From them on, I've had affairs with various genres and authors. I've turned the pages of a few classics like Tolstoy's Anna Karenina and Buck's The Good Earth. I've flipped the pages of comic books like Waterson's Calvin and Hobbes and graphic novels like Gaiman's Preludes and Nocturnes. I mostly read foreign authors, but I have also read books published by Summit (i.e. the publisher of Cosmo Philippines, Smart Parenting, etc). I've read e-books, too.

I collected Sweet Valley Twins on my pre-teenage years and shifted to Sweet Valley High and Sweet Dreams in high school, which I sold and now regret BIG time. I have currently completed my Grisham collection with my acquisition of Ford Country Stories. I plan to continue collecting Nancy Drew for old time's sake. I read them voraciously as a grade school student at UPIS.

Before I fell in-love with my husband, I was in-love with Lestat (Anne Rice's Interview with the Vampire). And now, he shares my love with Jacob Black (Stephenie Meyer's Twilight Series). Hahaha.

I've read extensively, but I've not read enough. Madami pa akong gustong basahin at idagdag sa collection ko. A library is a pre-requisite when Jowell and I build our own home. It will be my sanctuary, my temporary escape from reality when life gets too tough for me to handle.

Life is tough. Money is hard-earned. With two children to take care of, books have become a luxury, my luxury. Indulge me.

HOTSHOTS flame-grilled burger meals for FREE!!!

2010-02-03T17:28:00.004+08:00

HOTSHOTS flame-grilled burger meals for FREE!!!

I’ve given up my addiction for Havaianas, but remain faithful to John Grishman, ketchup, Starbucks’ caramel cream frappuccino with raspberry syrup andHotshots’ Chicano burger.

Posted using ShareThis

Tintin's Tip(s) No. 2: Baby's Home

2010-01-29T18:44:00.007+08:00

After 3-4 days in the hospital, Yammy and baby are ready to go home. Based on my personal experiences, here are the stuff that you need to prepare ahead for the little one's arrival.

1. Air conditioner

Yes, if you can afford it (and the additional monthly bill that comes with it), go get one. The weather in our country tends to be hot and humid even during the -ber months. Just keep the temperature at a reasonable setting. Babies feel more warm compared to adults that a "cold" setting could still be "warm" for them. What I did was dress them lightly (i.e. long-sleeved tie-side shirt, pajamas, socks, and mittens), then cover them up with a sleeping sack.

Make sure that the filter is regularly cleaned.

2. A couple of towels

Baby towels are smaller compared to adult towels, hence, these are easier to manage. I personally did not use these to dry the babies after bath. I just used the towels to make sapin the bed cover. I used hooded towels to dry the babies after bath instead.

3. Hooded towels

As these are smaller than baby towels, these are easier to use when drying the babies after bath. Two to three are enough. I don't change towels every day unless these have been peed or pooped on. I change their towels every week under normal circumstances. I just make sure that these are sun-dried every after use.

4. A bathtub and a baby bather

First time mommies are very brand conscious. When I was pregnant with MiLo, I wanted everything "branded". I equated the brand with quality. Pero siyempre, kapag Fisher Price bathtub ang binili mo, expect to pay more. I recommend getting the Orocan bathtub. It's matibay and only costs 1/4 of the price of a branded tub. Mag-kamukha din naman besides your baby won't be using the tub for a very long time.

Instead of a bath seat, get a baby bather instead. I just feel a baby bather is safer for smaller babies.

baby bather

baby seat

5. Wash cloths

Just make sure to choose soft, cotton-like material to ensure that the baby's skin is not hurt.

6. Toiletries

I like top-to-toe washes because these are easy to use. Finding the perfect wash is trial and error. Look out for allergic reactions. Ask your pedia for suggestions. We started with Lactacyd baby wash, then tried Enfant, and eventually ended with J&J.

Have a stock of cotton swabs for cleaning the ears and nose after bath and a bottle of 70% isoprophyl alcohol for the umbilical stump.

7. Baby bottles

Even if you're breastfeeding, it's always better to have at least 6 2 oz baby bottles around because you'll never know when you need it. Prepare a sterilizer na din (I prefer the automatic type), bottle and nipple brush, and bottle tongs.

bottle tongs

8. Cabinet or Drawer

To store and organize baby's stuff. It's always a good idea to get them their own cabinet para you don't have to rummage through your entire wardrobe just to find a pair of mittens or booties. And baby cabinets are just too cute to be ignored.

You can have it custom-made by your karpintero or buy it ready-made at a furniture shop.

9. Crib

I recommend buying the one with a removable bassinet on top. We bought a wooden crib for MiLo in the beginning, but he only used it for 6 months and we bought another crib. Sayang, di ba? The removable bassinet can be used by younger babies and it can be removed and stored once the baby gets older.

But, if you're co-sleeping, a couple of bolster pillows will do.

Hope this helps. Until net time, ciao!

Pretzel's Side Trip

2010-01-25T07:13:00.005+08:00

Pretzel's journey wasn't so smooth. Her pediatrician informed me on December 21st, a day after her birth, that she has neonatal pneumonia and that she wasn't coming home with us the next day. She needed to stay for 7 more days for her treatment.

I only got to see my big baby when she was 2 days old. My heart broke when I saw a couple of tubes/gadgets attached to her tiny feet. One was for the administration of her medicines and the other to monitor her vital signs. She might be a big baby, but she is still very fragile. I longed to hold her in my arms.

Tubes attached to her tiny feet.
She is a day old.

I spent 30 minutes or so just staring at her. She is peacefully sleeping and said a quick prayer for her fast recovery. I apolgized to her for not taking good care of myself when she was still in me and that she had to suffer in the end. I said my goodbyes and she suddenly cried. I felt that she knew I was leaving her. The nurse told me that I can carry her. With the tubes attached to her, I was hesitant. I might hurt her, but the nurse assured me that it was alright.

I carried her with tender loving care. I sang her a lullaby and rocked her in my arms. She was comforted and fell asleep in an instant. I needed to go back to my room as I will be discharged any time. I put her back to her bassinet and she stirred and cried again. I picked her up once more and assured her that I'll be back tomorrow to visit her and that I'll be back every day until it's time for her to go home.

I left the NICU with a heavy heart, but I know that the doctors and nurses will take good care of her in my absence.

Pretzel spent her 1st Christmas at the hospital. While we celebrated at home, she was in the company of complete strangers. Strangers, who like her, were not celebrating with their families to take care of her and the other babies.

All set to go home.

A few more days passed and on the 28th, Pretzel went home. At present. Pretzel is doing very, very well and still gaining weight. At one month old, she is 9.9 lbs.

Pristine Yzabel
1 month old/9.9 lbs

Beautiful Blogger

2010-01-22T04:53:00.005+08:00

Thanks for the the tag, Vayie. The rule looks easy enough. Let me try.

Rule: Share 7 confessions and tag 7 blogbuddies.

1. I had a kodigo when I retook my compre exams back in college. Take note, essay yung exams. Hahaha.

2. I have never been in a motel until I was married and we checked in because we haven't slept well due to the 2 (or maybe even 3) days blackout in our area.

3. I cannot do number 2 without reading anything.

4. I want to publish my own book. I have actually drafted one years back based on our love story and planned to give it to Jowell (who was just my boyfriend then) as an anniversary gift. We got married na and had kids and all, but I never got to finish writing it.

5. It frustrates me that I cannot wear sleeveless tops/gowns/dresses.

6. Aside from my husband, sisters, and brother, I don't have a best friend. I had one years ago, but we had a falling out because of a boy. Gawd! We are pathetic. Almost 6-7 years of friendship all gone to waste and she didn't even end up with him either. Sana nagkatuluyan na lang sila para hindi naman nasayang ang pagkakaibigan namin.

7. When I'm nagtatampo with my husband, I watch our wedding video and the tampo subside.

I'm tagging my fellow beautiful bloggers (naks!):

Tintin's Tip(s) No. 1: D-day Essentials

2010-01-14T20:55:00.009+08:00

To celebrate the birth of our second child, I've decided to come up with a bi-monthly post about motherhood, parenthood, and stuff about raising children. These will be based on my own experiences, from other peoples' stories, from parenting forums, boards, and websites. Sources will be acknowledged.

Disclaimer: Even with 2 kids now, a toddler and an infant to be exact, I'm still not an expert on motherhood. I guess I'll never be. I'll always be a work in progress aiming for improvement.

To kick off this series, let me share with you what you need to bring to the hospital on D-day. These are mostly based on my own experience.

It is better to pack your hospital bag early than be taranta, but don't be too OA naman that you start packing as soon as you know that you are pregnant. You can start packing as early as your 28th week or you can be like me and pack your bags on the 35th week. I like packing on the 35th week marker kasi the clothes don't get too lukot/kusot and the bags don't get too maalikabok.

Pack 2 bags - one for you and one for baby. This is mainly for convenience. You do not need to rummage the entire bag looking for your underwear or something. I also pack a smaller bag for toiletries. Of course, inform your husband where the bags are.

All packed and ready to pop.

Stick Post-Its on your vanity mirror in your room to remind you of stuff you still need to bring, but still using in the meantime like lip balm, deodorant, toothbrush, haircomb, etc. unless you are planning to buy new supplies. I don't buy na these things for a 2-5 days confinement. These are readily available at home and I just need a constant reminder. Inform your husband that there are still some stuff to be packed. Just make sure your husband or someone else can easily find the things you listed when D-day comes.

Prepare your documents. There may be some documents you need to bring to avoid any hassles during the big day. With my firstborn, I just brought a photocopy of our marriage certificate and a couple of signed copies of a Philhealth form. I should've also brought my latest ultrasound report and all laboratory test results. I had to ask my husband to go get them at home. On my second delivery, I brought every ultrasound report and lab test resulst with me including my pre-natal record book. This becomes handy when interns interview you for your medical history. You just hand them the book, they take notes, and somehow you can relax. Also, do not forget your OB's referral letter.

On a side note, make sure that you have signed copies of the Philhealth form para hindi na ma-delay ang discharge mo unless you plan on reimbursing na lang.

Be ready with your pambayad, of coure, and have some (or lots of) extra. With my 2nd child, we were only prepared for a normal delivery, no complications (to the baby and I), and accomodations to a regular private room. I was to have a vaginal delivery and imagine my panic when my OB advised me that I will have a C-sec delivery right away. Read story here.

I delivered via C-sec, the baby had neonatal pneumonia and was confined for 6 more days after I was dischared, and we roomed in a suite. The cash we hand on hand was only half of what we needed. Our healthcard doesn't cover maternity and buti na lang it was December at madaming pera ang mga tao.

Now, what to put in the hospital bags regarless of the delivery type.

For Yaddys and Yammys (aka parents):

underwear
adult diapers and/or maternity pads (I personally prefer the diapers. The maternity pads are sooooo thick that they are uncomfortable na.)
toiletries (Maski sinasabi nilang bawal maligo after giving birth, magdala pa din.)
baby cologne
lip balm (especially helpful if you delivered via C-sec)
socks
towel and washcloth
set of clothes if you're not too keen on wearing hospital gown
husband's set of clothes
going-home outfit (preferably your maternity get up pa din kasi you'd still look around 6 months preggy)
slippers
maternity binder
padded bras and/or breast pads (Usually, first-time moms bring breast pads as they do not know yet how muck milk they produce. By the 2nd baby, they have a fair idea na.)
camera and spare battery (and film if needed)
mobile phone and charger
coins for the vendo machine
something to eat and drink

For Yabies (aka babies):

long sleeved tie/button-side shirts
pajamas
disposable diapers (Most nurseries provide a free pack of newborn diapers, but it's always better to have a spare pack.)
receiving blankets
mittens and booties
bonnets
wash cloth

The number of items you need to bring is up to you. The above is just a list of the most important things you need to bring. Aside from these, the love and support of your husband, family, and friends, and blessing from God for a safe delivery complete the D-day essentials list.

Hope this helps and next time I'll be sharing tips on things that the baby needs upon arriving home from the hospital.

Pretzel's Journey

2010-01-13T06:30:00.019+08:00

Rewind to May 03, 2009

I had 2 menstrual cycles back in March, skipped in April, and took a pregnancy test in May.

Positive.

Rewind to May 16, 2009

It was confirmed through transvaginal ultrasound that I was 7 weeks and 2 days pregnant. My expected date of delivery was December 31, 2009.

Although the results were good, I wasn't too ecstatic. Finding out I was pregnant again in less than 2 years made me anxious and depressed for a short period of time. I was not ready in all aspects. Hindi ko pa nga masyadong nae-enjoy si MiLo, eh, may bagong baby na. I felt guilty at the same time as I was taking the pregnancy for granted. I skipped prenatal check-ups, didn't take my vitamins, didn't follow my diet, etc, etc. Then, out of obligation, I kept my appointments, took my medicines, and became a good patient again. But, I was still blaming my husband for getting me pregnant. I was like this for a couple of weeks until it hit me.

Rewind to September 23, 2009

I've noticed a drastic decrease in P's fetal activity since last night. P's a very malikot baby. In a day, I can feel P moving around 40-50 times, but at bedtime last night, I didn't feel P at all. I relaxed and tried to sleep thinking that maybe P has gone to sleep and will resume the kalikutan in the morning. All throughout the day, I was focusing on P's movement. The slightest sign would give me temporary relief, but deep down, I was scared.

Time dragged at work and as soon as the clock hit 3, I was out. I texted my OB right away, but I have already decided to go to TMC to have P's heartbeat checked. Maski kaninong OB. I was desperate and beginning to get paranoid. The entire trip from my place of work to TMC took about an hour and a half and I only felt P slightly move for 5 times, which is NOT so normal. I tried to remain calm while waiting at the OB's clinic. I browsed my mobile phone for MiLo's pictures to keep myself relaxed. Me being stressed out will do P no good. It took ages before Dr. Torres was able to accommodate me. He checked P's heartbeat and during the entire check-up, I only felt P twice. He assured me that P has a heartbeat, but he advised me to have a BPS tomorrow. I bargained with him if I can have it done on Saturday as I have work. He said NO!

I called my OB when I got home. She advised me to have my congenital anomaly scan tomorrow. I tried to bargain with her again and, naturally, she said NO! She has informed me that if P's state proves to be weak, I can't deliver P yet as P will not survive at 26 weeks. I knew that was coming and forced myself again to remain calm and understand Dr. Toy's instructions. I held back tears until the call was ended.

Rewind to September 24, 2009

The results of the congenital anomaly scan were all normal. P has good cardiac activity and no gross anomalies were detected.

Rewind to November 25, 2009

I had an insulin overdose after my endocronologist and I had a misunderstanding with the administration of the drug. I was advised by my OB-gynist to have a BPS and a fetal non-stress test (NST) to determine P's state of well-being. All is well with God's blessing.

Rewind to December 02, 2009

I was advised to have Estimated Fetal Weight determination and NST until delivery since I had gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). My doctors fear that I might be carrying a big baby and they were right.

Rewind to December 02, 2009

At 36 weeks and 6 days, my OB has given me my admission letter stating that I was to be admitted under her services and for vaginal delivery.

Rewind to December 12, 2009

At 37 weeks and 2 days, my cervix is closed, but effaced. I gave birth to MiLo at 37 weeks and 5 days.

P's EFW is 8 lbs and I was scheduled to have another EFW determination the following week.

Rewind to December 19, 2009

Here begins our birthing story.

around 12 noon

I had another BPS and at 38 weeks and 2 days, P's EFW has increased by 15 oz. As I had no scheduled check-up that day, I immediately called my OB and informed her of P's EFW and she was shocked that P has gained almost another pound (0.9375 to be exact) in only a week. She advised a C-section delivery at 8:30AM the following day and I was like "hu-whaaaat?!?".

around 4PM

Jowell and I went to her clinic as advised. She has given me another admission letter, but this time, I was to be admitted for C-section delivery. She explained why I can no longer have a Natural Spontaneous Delivery or normal birth. First, my labor was not progressing as an effect of the GDM. Second, if we wait until my 40th week, the baby will only get bigger and with my condition (hypertension + GDM + superimposed pre-eclampsia), a C-sec is inevitable.

We were excited to see P before Christmas, but we were not ready for a C-sec delivery. We were only prepared for a normal delivery without any complications and accommodations to a private room.

around 6:ooPM

I still went to SM Fairview to get an abdominal binder. Afterwards, we had dinner at Wendy's and went home thereafter.

around 9:30PM

Together with my husband, my parents, brother, and a cousin, we all trooped to FEU-NRMF. Again, just like with MiLo, I walked myself to the ER and did the paperworks myself. Once again, "I missed the drama of panicking if my water bag broke at an ungodly hour and sending my otherwise calm husband into a panic mode" (quoted from here).

After the SOPs, I was finally officially admitted at 1o:21PM and wheeled to my suite as all private rooms, semi and big/small were occupied. My mind started to compute the expenses and was stressed in the process.

Rewind to December 20, 2009

12 midnight

I was finally settled in and Jowell and I called it a day.

around 1:30AM

After waiting for the labor to begin, ironically, it all happened when I was already scheduled to have a C-sec. I wasn't supposed to go into labor. Scheduled CS na nga ako, di ba?!? At mamaya ng alas-otso y media yun!!! I endured the pain for over an hour or two making sure that I was actually in labor before waking up Jowell. I tossed and turned in bed as I counted the gaps between the contractions. The gaps were between 10-20 minutes pa lang.

around 3:00AM

When the contractions were 5-10 minutes apart na lang, I got up and woke up Jowell. While waiting for him to come into his senses, I walked around the room to lessen the pain.

When he finally woke up, the contractions were less than 5 minutes apart na lang and he called the nurse's station na. A resident was immediately sent to monitor my progress and my blood pressure.

My cervix was finally dilated and the previous schedule set by my OB was moved from 8:30AM to 5:30 AM.

between 4:00 - 4:30AM

Two orderlies and a nurse went to my room to bring me to the delivery room. A pangpa-kalma was injectected on my arm before I was wheeled to the DR.

between 4:30 - 5:25AM

Outside the DR, I knew I fell asleep while they were preparing the room and themselves for the delivery. Whatever they injected to me was doing its work well. I was relaxed and barely noticed the people around me.

According to my Operation Record (OR), the spinal anesthesia aka SAB was administered at 5:13AM. I had the same anesthesiologist so I knew I was in good hands. I'm more scared of the administration of the anesthesia rather than the delivery itself. I've heard stories kasi of overdose resulting to a vegetative state.

After the SAB was induced, my anesthesiologist placed a pointed object (which I thought was a needle and later found out from my husband that it was the instrument my OB used to slice me) on my tummy and asked if it was "masakit" or "nakapatong lang". While the trials were made, I started shivering and when all "needle" tests were "nakapatong lang", my OB started the CS procedure at 5:25 AM.

5:38 AM

Pristine Yzabel Corpuz dela Cruz

I felt nothing and was slighty aware of what was happening around me. I knew that P was out when I felt a push on the top of my tummy, probably a fundal push, and my OB said "Tina, ang laki ng baby mo." And another commented, "Pwede nang binyagan."

I knew someone brought P to my bedside to breastfeed, but I was too sleepy to even catch a glimpse of my big baby.

Present Time

Taken on January 01, 2009

Pretzel has gained another pound since then. She, literally, is a bouncing baby girl. She is doing well in spite of the kapalpakans I had with the pregnancy.

Holding her in my arms and seeing her toothless smile, makes me regret BIG time the day I wish I was not pregnant with her. I now regret the day when I kept blaming Jowell for knocking me up again in less than 2 years. Pretzel and I had a rough journey, but we weathered it out with God's grace and the support of our family and loved ones.

Pretzel's journey has began.

Tintin Digest No. 3

2009-12-09T16:54:00.020+08:00

While I still have the time...

Random Thoughts on my 2nd pregnancy and baby P

I'm not sure if I've mentioned this before, but this pregnancy is totally unplanned. It's not that Pregnancy 1 was planned, but Pregnancy 2 came as a BIG surprise. Looking back, we shouldn't be at all surprised pala. When you make love unprotected, expect the unexpected. So, instead of the 3-year gap we planned, baby 2 came 2 years earlier.
Finding out I was pregnant again in less than 2 years made me anxious and depressed for a short period of time. I was not ready in all aspects. Hindi ko pa nga masyadong nae-enjoy si MiLo, eh, may bagong baby na. I felt guilty at the same time as I was taking the pregnancy for granted. I skipped prenatal check-ups, didn't take my vitamins, didn't follow my diet, etc, etc. Then, out of obligation, I kept my appointments, took my medicines, and became a good patient again. But, I was still blaming my husband for getting me pregnant. I was like this for a couple of weeks until it hit me. Read story here. Whether a pregnancy is planned or unplanned, it is a blessing that we should embrace. Not all are given the opportunity to be a mother. I thank God that in spite of all my kapalpakans, P is well. I'm sorry P for my shortcomings. I have my entire lifetime to make it up to you.
I'm 36 weeks and 6 days pregnant. My OB has given my admission letter just in case I go on labor before my next appointment. My cervix has not dilated, but it has soften na daw, whatever that means.
I've been nesting, too. I've packed, unpacked, and packed again our hospital bags. I'm so ready to pop. Hahaha. I've also re-arranged P's drawer and was overwhelmed with her clothes. Ang dami! She has over 20 onesies in newborn size alone. Maski every hour siyang magpalit ng damit, hindi siya mauubusan. Namigay na nga ako ng ilang damit for my SIL's upcoming baby and madami pa din.

Our hospital bags. OA ako mag-empake. Kala mo magtra-travel kami.

Ang mga naayos ko pa lang. Madami pa sa cabinet.

Sabi syo madami pa, eh!

For my SIL's upcoming baby.

I'm actually scared of giving birth this time. I have preconceived knowledge na kasi na painless is not 100% pain-free.
Now that I have resolved all my issues with this pregnancy, I'm praying for a safe and normal delivery. Please include as in your prayers.
After this, ayoko na talagang mabuntis. Hindi na ko magpapauto sa asawa ko. Hahaha.

Random Thoughts on MiLo

MiLo has said his very first official word. Yes, he babbles all the time and say things like Tata (for aunt), Lala (for lola), some German-sounding word when he points to a bulb, but last week he said "Ganda" while pointing to the well-lit giant Christmas tree displayed outside Robinson's. We were stunned. How in the world was he able to co-relate "ganda" to the Christmas tree? Alam na ba nya meaning ng maganda? Oh, well. The many surprises of toddlerhood.
He also now makes the "eng" sound when playing with his toy cars. Saan din nya napulot yun?
Once there was a huge gift beside our tree, but after a few days, wala na. Naiinip ang recipient. Hahaha.

Before.

After.

MiLo is so lakwatsero. When you mention the word SM or pasyal, his face lights up and gives us his most adorable smile. When he hears the car starting up, naku, he goes loco. When his not kasama sa lakad, he makes this really funny face.
He's growing up looking like his Papa Lolo.

Is it just me or there is indeed a striking resemblance?

When other kids see a camera, they strike a pose and smile. When MiLo sees a camera, he picks his nose. Seriously.

OK lng. Cute pa din naman.

One time I heard him humming the ABC. I thought I was only hearing things, but I heard it again while we were waiting for You Tube to load eensy weensy spider.

His current favorite video. He can imitate the actions, too.

MiLo's current favorite hangout is Kidz Republic.

Tambayan ni MiLo.

With Mama Lola.

MiLo is approaching the Terrible Two stage. Nonetheless, he never ceases to amaze us with his crazy antics and his smile just melts our hearts away. No matter how kulit and likot he gets, we are crazy over him. It brings so much joy in my heart whenever I see my parents and siblings light up with joy when they see MiLo. He brings us so much happiness that we tend to spoil him. Hahaha.

Random Thoughts on Romanticizing My Marriage

1 of the 3 things I resolve to do on my 31st year is to romanticize my marriage. Read here. Since then, Jowell and I have been on 2 dates.

We saw "New Moon" on its 2nd day of showing. I truly appreciate it when he comes with me to see the movies I like. We sat in the dark holding hands like a couple of teenagers on their first movie date. Although, we didn't have dinner out, I truly enjoyed the night as it gave Jowell and I the chance to be just husband and wife.
Our most recent date was last December 6. We bought clothes for Christmas as the family decided to have a color theme. The ladies are wearing green and the gentlemen, including MiLo, are wearing red. After a quick shopping, we had dinner at Shakey's. This I like. Hahaha.

Random Thoughts on Work

After over 3 years with ATO, I was transferred to another queue. Surprisingly, I welcomed the change with open arms. Please don't get me wrong. I love my old queue. I've made good friends will all of my teammates, but it's high time to move on. Most of my friends have either resigned, transferred to a different queue, or promoted. It was only Febe and I who were left among the pioneer batch. Lahat bago na. I have nothing against the newbies, I just wish that they will learn to love the queue as much as we did. It's now on their hands. Goodluck.
I like my new queue for 2 reasons. 1. The metrics are lower. 2. I finally got a PDP of over 4. Woohoo! Sayang lang as I had to go on maternity leave na.
Yes, I still have plans of resigning. In fact, I've been busy lately with my application. I just hope all ends well and have a new job come next year. I will keep you posted on this.

Random Thoughts on Christmas and Gift-giving

Christmas is my all-time favorite season, but this year the magic has not caught with me yet. I can't plan as I'm not sure whether I'll be giving birth before, during, or after Christmas. I wish I'd give birth before Christmas, though. I don't want to miss the festivities. But, I know that I'll give birth to P in God's own beautiful time.
I haven't started shopping for gifts yet. Not even for our little one. Oh, I'm so bad! I'll do it as soon as I can.
I know times are tough, but I think we shouldn't be giving gifts that we wouldn't want to receive ourselves. Do you wish to receive a tacky gift? It's OK not to splurge, pero don't give naman something na obviously hindi pinagisipan. Yung tipong nagsusumigaw na cheap. Feeling ko kasi kapag ganun, eh, napilitan ka lang magbigay out of necessity dahil kapatid ng partner mo or partner ng kapatid mo or someone na hindi importante pero expected nila na magbibigay ka. I suggest na don't give na lang at all kasi, well, at least for me, it's downright insulting. Just my two-cents worth.

Random Thoughts on Every Thing Else

My email account got hacked. Some low-life sent a message in German to my contacts. I had to email all of them explaining that it wasn't me. The nakakainis na part lang was I had to change all the passwords of my other online accounts. Andami nun. Grrrr.
With the new baby coming, will we survive financially? Hay! Just thinking of all the expenses that comes with the new baby stresses me out. Mag-OFW na lang kaya ako after I give birth? Double hay!
May the victims of the Maguindanao massacre and their families find justice quick.
I've chosen my presidentiable unless he does something really nakaka-turn off.
2 of my contributions to Smart Parenting magazine were published. Sayang! Walang prize. Hehehe.
Finally, I'm able to do the tag from Hazel. Thank you.

Rules:
1. Show the award logo in your post.
2. Pick a picture you have with your kiddo/s.
3. Post should include your best experience as a Mom.
4. Nominate other blogger moms out there that you consider the best mom, like yourself.

MiLo and I @ Dad's Glorietta.

My best experience as a mom is I get the opportunity to raise a child that God has blessed me with.

I'm nominating Ate Tim and Joanna.

That's all, folks. My next update will probably after I have given birth na. Happy holidays and don't forget the reason why we are celebrating the season. Have a meaningful Christmas.

3 Things To Do on My 31st Year

2009-11-05T12:17:00.005+08:00

Two days after my 31st birthday, I've now come to realize the most urgent things I need to do this year. At first, I wanted to do 12 things. Then, reality hit me. I'm no superwoman and decided to come up with just 3. Let's me take it three goals per year.

1. Romanticize my marriage.

Although, I'm blissfully hitched, things can be better for Jowell and I. Ever since we've had MiLo, it has mostly been all about MiLo that I've forgotten that there is also Jowell wanting Yammy's TLC. He understands that at this point in MiLo's life, he needs me more, but I shouldn't forget that I am his wife and partner first and foremost. When the kids (MiLo and PretZel) are all grown-up, it'll be just him and I again and I want to keep the romance in our marriage even when our little ones are still babies.

Romance does not equate to just sex. At 31, romance has evolved into something more mind-blowing than sex. Hahaha. To achieve this, I plan to spend more QT with Jowell. This means going out on dates more often without MiLo and the Inang Rose tagging along. Yes, it's fun to have them around, but sometimes we need time alone to rekindle our relationship as husband and wife. We'll miss MiLo and (soon) PretZel while we're a watching movie and holding hands, but both will be at home eagerly waiting for us.

Jowell and I are both 31. We are not getting any younger. We are parents, but it doesn't mean that we are no longer allowed to do ~~crazy~~ things that young couples do. We can still kiss under the rain, text sweet, random nothings, baby talk, fight and make-up, cuddle in bed, etc. Only our body ages. Not our spirit. Not our love.

2. Watch what I eat.

It's high time that I become conscious of what I eat. I want to live longer for my husband and kids. Enough said.

3. ~~Learn more.~~ Do more.

(edited on 11/08/09)

Ever since I started working full-time, the only new things I learn are the updates from the clients. This makes me a better CSR, but it stops at that. Outside of the office, what I've learned is no longer essential. I crave to learn more. In fact, I already learned one thing today - how to make liquid soap from scrap soap bars. Now, all those scraps of bar soap will be put to use again and we don't need to buy a separate liquid hand soap.

While learning more is a noble thing, putting what I've learned into action is nobler. What's the use of learning a new thing when I'm not going to put it to good use, right? Aside from that, doing more also means doing things I've not done before from the simplest to the most outrageous. I'm 31 once. I was 30 once and missed a lot of things because I was too chicken to try, didn't have the time to try, or didn't have the resources to try. On my 31st year, I'll just do it provided that it would not compromise my family.

This is better. Wish me luck.

31!

2009-11-03T22:15:00.008+08:00

I turned 31 today and received a special gift from the husband - a bouquet of flowers. We were steady bf/gf for 3 years and married for 2 years and he has never given me a flower. Not a stem, not a leaf, nada! And today, on my 31st birthday, he gave me flowers. Not one, not two, but a bouquet.

This was supposed to be a surprise gift from him, but I kind of ruined it. Sige na nga. I ruined it big time. I heard his phone beep and checked who was it from. Aba, new number! Out of curiosity, I read it. Hahaha. There goes his surprise. Sorry, yaddy! Surprised or not, I loved the flowers, anyway.

Geez! I so look like 31. Hahaha.

In spite of the humble handa prepared by my husband, I am truly blessed. My boys are healthy and well. Jowell and I have both decent jobs. Both of our families are well. I truly thank God for ll the blessings He has showered me this past year alone.

I still haven't pondered on the things I want to accomplish, but I do know that I want to be a better person for my husband and my children. My husband would love that I lose weight for health reasons. I'll definitely consider adding it on my To Do list.

My 31st year has started well. I hope it will be A-OK for the next 364 days.

Name Game: Pangalanan si P Contest Update No. 8

2009-11-03T20:29:00.002+08:00

The Big Reveal. Now na.

First, I apologize for the delay in the announcement of the winner of baby P's official name. My BP elevated early this morning and I opted to rest instead. Thanks for understanding.

Second, my appreciation to all those who participated in this little contest of ours. My husband and I are grateful for all your suggestions.

Third, our sincerest gratitude to my dear friend, Jen, for helping us judge and choose P's name. Finally, Jen, P is safe from being a "Precious" or other primitive names we have thought of before.

Fourth, as promised, here's a list of the names that were suggested:

Patrice Ryzel
Pristine Yzabel
Prima Yzabel
Precious Hazel
Prema Liezel
Prescilla Grizel
Pretty Jowzel
Pristine Anzel
Priscilla Jazzel
Patricia Ruzzle
Preya Zelene
Presca Gizelle
Preeti Zelina
Perzsike Zelena
Premila Zelene
Perzsike Zelene
Precious Zelyna
Pretina Zelene
Precilla Zelia
Preeda Zelia
Preema Zelena
Pretinna Jozzel
Preya Crizel
Preya Heartzel
Prechie Mishzel
Preana Jazel
Prema Gizelle
Perrimae Zelina
Pritzi Zellena

I thought there were 31. Oh, well!

Fifth, the list of those who made it to the shortlist:

Patrice Ryzel
Pristine Yzabel
Precious Hazel
Pristine Anzel
Perzsike Zelena
Precious Zelyna
Preana Jazel

Sixth, the top 2 choices were:

Pristine Yzabel and Pristine Anzel

Seventh, we have also drawn the winner of a Starbucks gift certificate or 2 Ayala cinema movie tickets. Congratulations to my n@wie sis Jenki Fernando.

Eighth, our ultimate choice was suggested by another n@wie sis, Morning Madrid. Congratulations and thank you for giving our baby P a name.

Lastly, baby P's official name is:

Pristine Yzabel

Pristine: completely free from dirt or contamination; "pristine mountain snow"
Yzabel: of Hebrew origin meaning "My God is a vow."

Name Game: Pangalanan si P Contest Update No. 7

2009-11-02T21:25:00.003+08:00

My apologies to all the participants. I'll be moving the announcement of baby P's name on a later time, but still on November 3rd. I'm afraid I'm unable to stay up until 12MN. Please bear with me and stay tuned. :)

Name Game: Pangalanan si P Contest Update No. 6

2009-11-01T16:10:00.002+08:00

From 31 suggested names, we are down to two. Watch out for the Big Reveal on midnight of November 03, 2009.

A Reply to MiLo's Open Letter

2009-10-30T01:11:00.004+08:00

To our dearest adorably grumpy little boy,

Yes, we will have a date.

Just remember to keep your promise.

Love,

Yaddy and Yammy

You can read MiLo's letter here.

Name Game: Pangalanan si P Contest Update No. 5

2009-10-26T18:36:00.002+08:00

Baby P's Name is officially closed. The announcement of winner will be at 12 MN Manila Time on Tuesday, November 3, 2009. The winner will receive notification by email and SMS to the mobile number provided.

Thank you to all those who joined.

Name Game: Pangalanan si P Contest Update No. 4

2009-10-24T07:54:00.003+08:00

Baby P's name game ends tomorrow at 11:59 PM, Manila Time. You can still email me your entries at little.tin.star@gmail.com with the following information using this format:

Your Name:
Email Address:
Complete Shipping Address:
Mobile Number:
Name Suggestions: (maximum of 3 names only)

We have also chosen the third party who will help us select P's name. On November 3, PretZel will have a full name. I'm excited.

Bittersweet

2009-10-14T17:32:00.004+08:00

I went to see my endocrinoligist earlier today and she was truly, truly disappointed that I haven't been monitoring my sugar and injecting my insulin. She has given me my free kit ages ago and I just stashed it our headboard cabinet. I know, I know. My bad. but I didn't ignore her orders intentionally. I had valid reasons, but keeping baby P and I safe are more valid reasons to follow my doctor's orders to a T.

According to my OB-gynist, I'm a mabait na patient and she was surprised that my endo has given up on me for failure to cooperate. It's not so me daw. I can be very hard-headed, you know. Ask my husband. So, what made the mabait na patient uncooperative. Finances, first and foremost. Glucose strips and insulin cartridges (even with discount coupons) do not come cheap. Even insulin needles are expensive. Yung pang-RBS lang ang mura. With MiLo's milk, diapers, shots, vitamins, Inang Rose's sweldo, my pre-natal vitamins, and allowance, hindi talaga enough yung pay ko every cut-off. Even with Jowell's salary, we cannot afford it talaga. Buti na lang we don't need to pay utilities, rent, grocery, etc or else lalong wala na. Of course, who wouldn't want a stress-free pregnancy, di ba? So, in spite of it all, I have no choice. I want P to be healthy. And yes, God will provide. Or even the lolos and lolas. Hahaha.

Monitoring sugar and injecting glucose is not exactly a walk in the park. I need to monitor my sugar thrice daily. In the morning before breakfast, 2 hours after lunch, and before dinner. I need to monitor in the office twice in this case. With insulin shots naman, I need to inject once lang naman sa fatty part ng arm or sa cheek ng pwet before breakfast. And again, I need to do this in the office. I need to these until I've safely given birth to our littlest one. Mahal na, super inconvenient pa.

I promise to be a good patient na ulit for P's sake. Tomorrow I'll start na with my rituals including BP monitoring. Argh! This pregnancy is so complicated, but who am I to complain. After P, ayoko na talaga! Hindi na ko papabola sa asawa ko! Hahaha. Or sana mag-menopause na ako.

Monday that Felt Like a Saturday

2009-10-05T21:50:00.003+08:00

After work, I met Mama, Chelly, Ate Rose, and MiLo at SM to bring MiLo to the barber. Jowell had the privilege of cutting MiLo's hair first back in May and now it's high time that he gets a haircut from a professional. He deserves it after getting sick due to teething and tigdas hangin. The poor baby deserves a break.

MiLo's first official haircut courtesy of Yaddy.
05.24.09

The product of MiLo's first haircut by a professional.
10.05.2009

Oh, my! Ang laki na ng anak ko. Wah! Before I know it, may nililigawan na siya. Double wah! Erase, erase. Anyway, before I get too sentimental for my own taste, I had fun today. Bringing MiLo to the mall proves to be more exciting as he learns to discover more and more things. He can now clearly distinguish a male mannequin from a female. He stops and stares when he sees a female mannequin wearing a sexy outfit. Seriously. But, he goes more gaga when he sees Jollibee. This little person loves Jollibee. For some unknown reason, he worships THE bee. I was actually planning to get him a made-to-order Jollibee costume for Halloween pero Diosmio, ang mahal! PhP3,500 for something he'll only wear once. Pambibili ko na lang ng milk nya or pang-vaccine na lang nya, di ba? Maybe if we're not expecting PretZel, I would've splurge pero with the littlest one on the way, we need to prioritize. Teka nga! I'm getting off-topic na.

MiLo wasn't exactly an angel when he was having a haircut. He was a darling during the first five minutes, but got fussy na when the shaved hair got itchy on his skin. Even Barney could not stop him from having tantrums. Thankfully, natapos din without an ear falling off. Hahaha.

Chelly got MiLo his "walking" gift. She promised the little one that she'll get him a new pair of Havs as soon as he learns to walk. MiLo is super spoiled with Chelly. She also got him this Spiderman balloon.

Before heading home, we had merienda at Wham! Burgers. Our little one shared cheeseburger and fries with his Mama Lola. Super andami niyang nakain. Napagod yata sa kakalakad at pagsakay ng escalator ng sangkatutak na beses.

I'll be yayaless again for 2 weeks starting on the 18th for Ate Rose's annual vacation leave. I think it's harder to take care of MiLo now that he can walk, but I'm up to the challenge. Aside from that, it gives us the chance to bond and make-up for lost time. Saan ko na naman kaya siya ilalakwatsa? Hahaha.

I had a fun Monday. Sana the entire week will be fun.

Name Game: Pangalanan si P Contest Update No. 3

2009-10-05T21:41:00.002+08:00

I'm excited to announce that Name Game: Pangalanan si P Contest is now officially launched with 10 participants. Yay! Goodluck every one.

CNN Hero of the Year

2009-10-03T17:13:00.002+08:00