More Of My Warm Appreciation

Hello guys! As I was reading your comments and messages of concern for my family, it captured my heart. I do want to visit your sites and personally send my thanks to all. I know that what happened to my family was just a minor thing compared to the rest who really suffered. In the end, I do realized that me and my family are still badly affected by the tragedy.

We don't have any water up to now and so is my family in the Rizal province. I mean, I would rather have water than electricity or both. Everything is useless without H2o.

But no worries, we were blessed by my husband's boss who gave us water. Today, Manila Waters (MWSS) delivered in our subdivision in Taytay. Thank God for this blessing.


As I watched the aftermath on TV, I felt a certain emptiness inside. Same with my other half. It was a heart- breaking scene. Most of my husband's co-workers lost their homes. I heard stories of heroism which made us hopeful. Now is our time to lend a helping hand.

To end this, THANK YOU once again for the thought, concern and prayers.Not just for me and my family, but for the rest of our citizens.

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Now I Pray...

As what I have mentioned in my pixel bug weekend entry, I wasn't able to find a spot or even a few seconds to pray when tragedy happened. I was totally in shock with the whole scenario. As I sent my warm words of thanks to my blogger friends from around the world for their messages of concern... These words popped on my mind. Now I pray...

I pray that we will be able to overcome this tragedy soon.

I pray that with this experience, we already learned our lesson. Mother nature has been trying to make a point ever since. We were too insensitive to even look back at the damages we made, big or small. Let us not wait for another typhoon or catastrophe to awaken us.

I pray that the homeless will be able to find courage and strength to move on.

I pray that the sick, helpless, the women and children will find comfort soon.

I pray that the men, the protector of each family will also have the strength and good guidance in leading their families for a brighter day.

Thank you for those who offered prayers...
Thank you for those who gave moral support...
Thank you for those who donated food, water, clothing, and offered shelter...
Thank you for the brave men who didn't stop with the search and rescue...
Thank you that the typhoon went out as fast as it came in...
Thank you that we are still alive and able...

Life doesn't end here. It may be hard to start all over again. But HE just gave us another chance to make things right. Lets make the most out of it...

Pixel Bug Weekend--- In Time Of Crisis

Let me rest for a bit with a quick post. This weekend had been pretty hard for everybody from all points of society. This past 3 days has been the most difficult for me and my husband. Of course compared to what happened to rest of our brothers and sisters from Marikina and Rizal, you may think ours is just nothing. Yes, we are very thankful and grateful that we survived, we stayed dry and we were able to eat something.

Our weekend started with high fever and stomach ache hitting my son. It was terrible for us not having any clue on what might have gotten Franky. Due heavy rains, Thursday, the pedia clinic was closed. We had to wait for Friday and prayed that it was open. We spent the whole day in the laboratory waiting for my son's results. Between waiting and anticipating, I had frequent visits to the public bathroom to accompany my son. Before hand, we were already having some car trouble. The car battery died on us. Not to forget the heavy rains. These are times of trials and tests of patience. Teaching us to be flexible and to be resourceful.

This may be the toughest we have ever been through in our 5 years staying in Quezon City. As our son got better from the meds his pedia gave him. Saturday morning, we were awakened by a call that the wall in our condo basement paved way with water rushing in from a nearby creek. Turning over cars parked in the basement. Our car was lucky for quite sometime because we were parked in front of the building. But sad to say, that luckiness was just for a few minutes. Within seconds, the water from the basement came out rushing filling our street. This is the first time in Cubao history that this happened. Particularly in our area.


Our car which we already had working Friday night, finally said goodbye to us Saturday morning. I nearly cried, because that transport is like family to us. First, it was from my late father-in-law. Second, we poured so much time and money on maintaining something of value by heart and by thought. It brought us to anywhere we wanted to, anytime of the day and night. We still have it. But if we talk about repair from inside- out, it will probably cost as much as setting a down payment for a new car. The water went up to the windshield part by the way.
My parents were comforting us through text. Well, thank God that we are okay. The water reached up to the first floor of the building. Again, we are thankful it stopped raining by night fall. I couldn't imagine if it didn't. Did I pray? to be honest, No, I didn't even think about it. My mind was totally blank with "I can't believe that this is happening, this is crazy!" Thinking what to do next if the water will reach our floor. This is me being realistic and being honest. I was out of our unit with my family looking at the flood from the second floor window with the rest of the tenants. Aside from watching cars get washed up , I was also checking on my family in Taytay. They are safe and dry, but the roads are not passable from all directions. Phone lines are out. Until now, they don't have any water. Same with us ,we have no water supply.

At this time, there's nothing else to think about, but to help others and to be THANKFUL that we are still alive. Regardless of the material loss. Everything can be worked out again.

Laundry Bag for Christmas Anyone

This has got to be the cutest laundry bags I have ever seen.

Just recently, my mom was complaining to me about my other siblings accomplishing their own laundry. I suggested to her to give each their own laundry bags and do their own laundry.

I told her to buy the cute ones like a personalized kids backpacks. That way, they will have the urge to exert effort on being responsible with that particular chore. I mean, if we see something pleasing to the eyes, we really make the most out of it. It adds excitement and fun. Not to forget, this can also be a good Christmas present, or a keepsake for a visiting friend. Like a bunch of them!

And speaking of cute bags, check outstephen joseph quilted backpack.

The cuteness is just out of this world. I want one! Really I love bags like these. I lived with this kind when I was in college. And I'm sure my son will dig it too.

Just The Two Of Us...

It's our moment for some Us Time...

A few beers, some real Filipino finger food and a good conversation... we're good!

My husband and I would always spend time together this way. Its like taking a big break from a week of work. Besides this is more fun than going out head for a bar. As a matter of fact, we're both done with that (the bar thing). We need to be more practical now.

Part of our Us Time would always be playing some computer games. Over the weekend, we've been occupied with Company of Heroes gold edition. Him using his Laptop, me using our PC.

Aside from enjoying a game, we would talk about family, long time friends old memories and future plans. We also like telling jokes to each other (both corny and funny)... This way, I feel that our relationship and bond will be tighter. Believe me, for every conversation we have, I keep on discovering new things about my other half... It's very nice... I love it! I love him!

Pixel Bug Weekend #1 We Celebrated The Whole Day

If there's something to look forward to every Monday, that is a Pixel Bug Weekend entry. As Mommy Salen launched her new meme for her new blog and together in celebration of her birthday, let us join her journey in sharing our weekend photos.

Our weekend was all about my son's birthday. We started Saturday, bought groceries for our small celebration and gifts. I wasn't really going for a party---PARTY! Early last week, as I was sending our invites to some friends and relatives, we found out that most are not available. We proceeded with the plan, but with less food and party goodies.

Spongebob it is for Franky's birthday this year.

After lunch, we rested, spent time with the magic sing, and headed to the Mall of Asia for the Manila International Bookfair. We have been attending this event since it started. My Dad is a member. By the way, its best to go on the last day, because sellers sometimes gives bigger discounts. I was able to buy a Michael Jackson Memorabilia for Php500, hardbound and its a 1 1/2 thick reading.(post to follow)

Proud as the affair celebrated its 30th year of sharing fun readings (old, hard -to -find and new), informative and various types for all ages.

Every year the Manila International Bookfair will always be an exciting stop for the family. My mom feasted on various cookbooks and home and living books. Then the whole family had dinner at David's Tea House---Franky's birthday celebration still.

2sets for every dish
and more!

It was a good celebration! Like really good...

To end the night, took some shots at the rooftop with my sister.

This year's celebration was filled with fun memories.

To share your pixel weekend with us---join at Pixel Bug Weekend

A Fruitful 5th For Franky

First of all, I would like to greet again my son Franky a glappy, glappy birthday! He had a good celebration with the whole family over the weekend. It was simple yet, blessed with so much fun. We were planning to celebrate it with his classmates in school. But the birth date landed on a Sunday. Plus, Monday is a holiday.

Saturday, we went out to buy his presents. This year, we wanted something artistic that will enhance his creativity. We noticed that he is not into regular toys anymore. He likes drawing, coloring and creating stuff.
And so to add a little color, we went with a Spongebob theme this year.

Prepared party food! Meaty spaghetti, hotdog on stick with marshmallows, Yoohoo barbecue, added some Ham and Cheese Calzone from Yellow cab for the adults.

Birthday Cake: Cookies and Cream c/o Red Ribbon (from the gc they raffled)

I pondered on a lot of things when my son turned 5. The 3 of us are all moving further. We are more knowledgeable about life, we will love and treasure the gift of family, a stronger relationship within and to others, and to establish a strong foundation as parents (now that our son is maturing). For the past 5 years, CHANGE has been part of it. On a personal note, I am very happy that we embraced it. Although we had a lot to sacrifice...lets just put it this way---if there's no pain, there is no gain. There should be something to be given up in order to make room for a more compatible essential for life and family.

We thank God for a fruitful 5 for Franky. He is now a boy with clear interests and hobbies. A boy filled with innocent thoughts, a boy whom we know, will love his family more than anyone, anything else.

Let There Be White

It has been a regular for the family to buy Red Ribbon cakes. The thing I love about their cakes are the distinct flavors they give.

Red Ribbon Has Always Been Part of Our Family...

Something WHITE was officially launched today. I am very proud to become part of this event. White chocolate, white chiffon, and luscious long- stemmed maraschino cherries. Combined that it will surely give delight on your first bite.

Introducing, Red Ribbon's New White Forest Cake!!!
Regular (P560), Junior (P335)
Visit any Red Ribbon Branch or call 8-77-77 and have it delivered!

This new yummy goodness was greatly influenced by Red Ribbon's Black Forest cake. Black Forest has been one of Red Ribbon's signature cake. It captures our hearts all the time. With this, Red Ribbon launched the very first White Forest cake in the Philippines.

It is made with creamy white chocolate and light, moist chiffon cake layered with real cherry bits and a fusion of white chocolate flakes.

I love it! The chiffon was very soft, not too sweet that you will appreciate the twist of the cherry filling will give. The long- stemmed Maraschino cherries on top made it more inviting and tempting. I just can't wait to have more of this new sensation.

Aside from this White mouth watering news, Red Ribbon has a new set of pastries and dishes to enjoy.

My son fell in love with their Ube Mamon first time he tried it.
Spaghetti with Meatballs

This is the best Spaghetti with Meatballs I have ever tasted. It's so gourmet. The meatballs were made out of 100% beef. Everything looks fresh and natural with this dish.

For a hearty morning, this is perfect. Grilled Ensaimada, scrambled eggs, served with the new Farmer's Ham made of tender lean meat with maple syrup.

Garlic and Chicken Mushroom

My favorite. There's just something about the flavor that I can't explain and distinguish. So good, it makes me want to eat some more.

Thank God for Red Ribbon! It's the ideal dining place for the family. Not to forget, the love and treasure they give for every occasion we celebrate, for every moment we spend with our families.

post updated: with my family's red ribbon cake collection photos.

All Hail District 9!

I just knew that this is going to be an awesome sci-fi movie. It is a documentary- type flick. Video Camera recordings put together. It was the best Sci-fi movie I have ever seen so far. It proved that good movies comes from the people behind the creation not the acting. The setting was different. Usually we would expect that it will be shot in one of the hot cities of America. The film went around in an unknown city of South Africa. The actors are not famous, but they're all good. If this alien thing is to happen in real life, District 9 is probably closest to reality.

Peter Jackson (director of Lord of the Rings) made another classic. I've read several reviews online from various critics. I was like, you people should say something good about this movie. They did as expected.

Chicago Tribune, Geoff Berkshire
"A late summer sleeper that puts most of Hollywood to shame."E! Online, Luke Y. Thompson
"...a memorable work that's likely to stand alongside the sci-fi classics."New York TimesA. O. Scott
"...smart, swift..." Reelviews, James Berardinelli
"...ends in a way that is both satisfying and unsettling."

Main character: Sharlto Copley - Wikus Van De Merwe

The tension between the aliens and the humans comes to a head when an MNU field operative, Wikus van der Merwe, contracts a mysterious virus that begins changing his DNA. Wikus quickly becomes the most hunted man in the world, as well as the most valuable -- he is the key to unlocking the secrets of alien technology. Ostracized and friendless, there is only one place left for him to hide: District 9.-source-

Anything sci-fi, I will gladly watch. Friends were raving about this movie. I'm thankful that my husband taught me to appreciate sci-fi. This is one movie genre that has a lot to offer. Very satisfying for movie lovers like me.
We watched at the Gateway Mall. I had speculations while watching, making assumptions to how the movie will end...

Like what James Berardinelli of Reelviews said... "...ends in a way that is both satisfying and unsettling."

Significance of 9-11 For Me

Still related to the United States... This was also the day my US Visa and my son's got approved. Upon knowing the schedule of our interview 9-11. I thought, is this a sign? We all know what happened in America that day. My husband was in the US when it happened. His trip back home got delayed for 2 months fearing to ride the plane. 911 is a date to be remembered...

I just can't imagine the hard work I poured for 3 months gathering data and hard copies. Proof of my solid residency here in Manila. Sept 11, 2008, I started my day early. We woke up, dressed up, our interview was at 1pm in the afternoon. As early as 7:30am we were already on the road going to the US Embassy. We decided to go super early because of the traffic, and upon arrival, I still want to look fresh and confident. My husband dropped us at a nearby Starbucks and off he went to work.

My mom accompanied me. 11:30am I went inside with Franky, security pointed me to the direction where I saw a line. Went there. While waiting, I was reading a book with Franky. Until I noticed a person being pointed to the other side of the Embassy.

We were in the wrong Visa line. Note: We were in line at the seafarer's area for 45 mins! Crazy!

And yes, I can call my self stupid---I didn't ask anybody at hindi ko man lang napansin na ako lang ang babae na nakapila.

I ran all the way to the other end of the Embassy for the trourist Visa process. My time in the wrong line ate up most of the pre- application check-up process. If you're going to assess, ma-le-late talaga ako. So I asked everybody in front of me if they could let me go first since I'm already running late and they're not. I was blessed that the group I was with were very understanding.

Last 2 minutes! Last 2 minutes! Exactly 12:58pm I was able to get my lucky numbers.
I was a total wreck, like physically. Sweaty and all, no time to use the bathroom to check how I looked. I told myself... Whatever result I may get, the experience for that day is still worth it.
So the interview happened, with me looking wasted. I have always been advised that the physical has bearing. I mean, even in an ordinary interview, they always look at the person and maybe gauge it from there, if it will fit the whole personality and attitude. That's why we always look our best.

Anyway, my hard-work paid off. It was a good 5 minute interview. Not a single document was asked.

3 days after, our passport with our visas knocked on our door. What is the Visa for? We made it a point that anytime we want to travel, everyone in the family is equipped with proper documents. Anytime, we are bound to take a short vacation in the US. Supposedly, October of last year. But a better job was offered to my husband here in the Philippines, that we had to cancel so he can start immediately. This has been a plan left hanging. We don't want to let it go. Its been a long time since my husband left for the US and visited his home.

A Blessed Rainy Day!

I started my rainy Wednesday by having breakfast with my husband. It was raining hard, I was having second thoughts of bringing my son to school. We commute going there. Lucky if my husband is bound to leave later than his usual, he's able to take my son to school. And today was such a blessed day. My husband was available to bring my son. Later, I was given the ultimate good news for the day. Let me count our blessings and be thankful...

-photo source-

I had a good talk with my son's teacher. She said that my son is doing great in school. Especially in Math. A smiling face was given to Franky for excelling. I have been very particular with my son's development. Few knows that he is undergoing difficulty in terms of language. He understands English more. Speaks in English and responds in English. One thought that has been bugging me, is his ability to be able to adapt and cope in a regular Filipino school environment.

Now, I can relax some more. After his first quarter in school, I know the second, third and fourth are going to be fantastic. Its good to see and experience the fruit of our hard work as parents. Especially for a first timer like me. Now I can guarantee that we are on the right path. I know my husband is feeling the same or even greater. Knowing that he is the only person behind providing us with a comfortable life. Another thing I am very thankful for is having him as a strong partner in life. We both have matured together to be more flexible, smart, wiser and to become simple Beings. He taught me a lot about life and the good values behind it. He is my mentor,and inspiration. I hope you're reading this baby...

Cheers to us for a job well done!

A Short Getaway

Hey everyone! Its been a long time since my last post. I took a time out and went on a short vacation on blogging. I must admit, since my son started going to school, everything changed. From our line of priorities, time management, load of work. It has been hectic not hard. As you may have noticed, I don't post that much or make drops like before. I sure do miss doing my regular online. But that thought brought good news too. I found out that I can still survive without checking my blogs in a day.

With all the load of plans, and school at hand. I immediately went on a short out of the town trip with my parents. I arranged this trip with my mom. Yup! welcome to the housewives club! She felt that she needed a little getaway too.

Seeking for my Dad's help, (who was our only hope to drive for us), we were blessed that his schedule was open. Plus, a long weekend was ahead of us.

Our short vacation started with a mass at the Carmel Shrine in Lipa Batangas. Few of you might have known that I am a devotee of the Miraculous Mediatrix of All Grace of Lipa.
Since I started hearing mass in Lipa, my spirituality was renewed to something better. And it just keeps on coming. It brings me inner peace all the time. (a different post to follow)

Later, we went to look for some beaches. We would usually go to Laiya, Batangas. But this year, we wanted something different. We landed in Sariaya Quezon.
The waves are bigger and stronger in Quezon. The beach was very clean. Its another 1 hour drive from Batangas. With good roads and some green scenery, you will never notice the long drive.
It was perfect to just sit around, enjoy our lunch and go on a stroll by the beach. It was the moment for some "me time". My dad took over watching my son. I went along walked by myself taking pictures.
Good life is indeed spent without spending too much money. This simple trip, is enough for me. I got rejuvenated. City life is very stressful even if I don't do regular work.It feels so weird to wear shorts and jacket at the beach.

Smiley Face

note: We are in the wet season. And currently experiencing some rain with gusty winds. That explains why the beach is empty.

Wet or dry, it doesn't really matter here in the Philippines. Have an awesome week everyone!

Blog hopping will officially start next week. I still want to continue rejuvenating by taking things one step at a time.
I do appreciate the visits and lovely messages you guys leave. Hugs!

Getting To Know Each Other

A tag that will definitely make my week from blogging complete. I'm in a very low mood lately. Been very busy and tired. I guess, after a week of excitement, that's the time you will get that tiring feeling. But this tag from Mommy Seiko of Seikos Diary woke me up.

GETTING TO KNOW EACH OTHER:
1. What time did you get up this morning? 6:30am
2. How do you like your steak? Medium

3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? Ice Age 3!

4. What is your favorite TV show? Rachael Ray or The Tyra Banks Show

5. If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be? I'm still here. Nothing beats the comforts your own country can give.

6. What did you have for breakfast? Ham, scrambled eggs, toast and my Taho!
7. What is your favorite cuisine? My favorites play between Italian, Chinese, Mexican and other exotic flavors.

8. What foods do you dislike? Anything too spicy.

9. Favorite place to eat? I've always been a Mexicali fan.

10. Favorite dressing? Italian dressing.

11. What kind of vehicle do you drive? I used to drive my Dad's van, now I drive my husband's Honda Civic.

12. What are your favorite clothes? Comfy shorts, racerback tops and slippers.

13. Where would you visit if you had the chance? Georgia
14. Cup 1/2 empty or 1/2 full? 1/2 full

15. Where would you want to retire? Out of the city where I can plant herbs and flowers.

16. Favorite time of day? Night time

17. Where were you born? Mandaluyong City

18. What is your favorite sport to watch? Lately...UFC or Boxing hehehe!

19. Who do you think will not tag you back? Hmmm...I really don't know.

20. Person you expect to tag you back first? Mommy Jac, TeJan, Chris and Willa.

21. Who are you most curious about their responses to this? Blogger friends in my bloglist.
22. Bird watcher? Yes! Very much.
23. Are you a morning person or a night person? Night Person (used to) (I still want to.)

24. Do you have any pets? Yes! Fishes.
25. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share? We will be out this weekend. Tagaytay bound!26. What did you want to be when you were little? A Flight Attendant.

27. What is your best childhood memory? I had a worry-free childhood. I played a lot.

29. Are you married? Yes

30. Always wear your seat belt? Yes!

31. Been in a car accident? Nope!

32. Any pet peeves? People playing smart.

33. Favorite Pizza Toppings? Mushrooms, Pineapple, bell pepper.

34. Favorite Flower? Lilies
35. Favorite ice cream? Chocolate (dark, chocolate truffles)
36. Favorite fast food restaurant? KFC!

37. How many times did you fail your driver's test? never

38. From whom did you get your last email? Rach a good friend.

39. Which store would you choose to max out your credit card? Marks and Spencer

40. Do anything spontaneous lately? none

41. Like your job? Yes! Very Much!

42. Broccoli? Love it!

43. What was your favorite vacation? Anything that will keep me out from the usual and spent with my family.

44. Last person you went out to dinner with? My whole family. (dad, mom, siblings, niece and nephew and my family)

45. What are you listening to right now? BASIA
46. What is your favorite color? RED and NUDE

47. How many tattoos do you have? none

48. How many are you tagging for this quiz? Everyone in my bloglist!

49. What time did you finish this quiz? 9:25am

50. Coffee drinker? Used to, but not anymore.

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