Christmas and New Year in Iloilo....

We finally decided to spend christmas with my family in Iloilo after two christmas' of not going home. In 2006, Elle was just three months old and was too fragile to travel. On the other hand, in 2007, we went home early December because of an assignment in Boracay and thought that it would not be practical to go home again after just one week. Hence, we decided to spend christmas in Manila.

I saw it in my parents' eyes that they were very happy to see Elle. My mother never let a minute pass by without playing with Elle. Everyday she would scold her most beloved dogs for barking at Elle. She went through with her annual gift giving in Jerios all alone with Elle (because I was sick)! She let Elle give out toys for kids in Jerios! Mama was so proud of Elle...

Mama would invite me to Gaisano so that Elle can play in Jollibee's play area. A day before we left for Manila she invited me to SM so that Elle can ride the carousel, mall train and ferris wheel (Elle's first time)!

On the other hand, my father would tell me everyday that Elle is so pretty. I would answer back, "of course she got her looks from me" and he would ask me back "from whom did you get your looks?". It's logic, papa knows that I got my look from him hence elle also got her look from her... He would give me a big smile after this exchange...

Looking back, I never really got a chance to do something like this with my mother and father when I was small. Maybe, because I grew up in Manila and would go home only twice a year or maybe because there were no play areas or big malls during that time... I would kid my sisters that none of our photos landed in our father's wallet but Papa now carries in his wallet Elle Marie's photo!

God, I love Mama and Papa. I love spending Christmas in Iloilo because my family is there.

Elle Marie, the flower girl

Last weekend, Elle Marie's Tito Danny got married in Laguit Padilla, Bugallon,Pangasinan and Elle was one of the flower girls. It was Elle's first time to be a flower girl. When I learned about it, I was sooo excited! but with all the activities that we had to do I was not able to prepare...
Elle was the youngest among the flower girls. She wore a mint green gown just like what the whole entourage wore. They wanted to put make up on her and do her hair but i objected. No offense to the make up artist but neither would I want to risk my daughter's skin with her make up nor subject Elle's hair with the spray net that i saw her putting on the other flower girls. I made Elle wear the pink and green beaded hairband that I bought in Cebu (in anticipation to Elle's being a flower girl); the pearl earrings (same as mine) given by Ninang Sasha. I was thinking of making Elle wear stockings but I only learned about their color theme when we got in Pangasinan.
They made Elle bring a basket of colorful flowers. At first she cried because as ninang and ninong, Noy and I had to march first and she was left alone with her escort. Good thing, Kuya shaolin was there. He walked down the aisle with Elle together with Elle's escort! Hahaha what an experience! I look forward to next year and more of flower girl stints for Elle!

This Little Light of Mine...

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine Let it shine let it shine let it shine Everywhere I go, I'm gonna let it shine Let it shine let it shine let it shine

Call me a stage mother, a bragger or whatever suits you but nothing can stop me from saying and boasting that I am soooo proud of my daughter! During their christmas program in school, she walked to the stage on her own while her other classmates were carried by their yayas! She shaked the flashlights and swayed her head as the song was being played! She neither cried nor screamed for me or Noy!!!

God, I am so proud of my daughters' milestones! I hope she knows how elevated (as if in cloud nine) I felt while watching her perform on stage with her friends. Again, I had mixed emotions. Ecstatic because of my daughter's achievements, very grateful to God for giving me Elle and very in love with Noy for without him, I would not have Elle... I was almost in tears but this time I did not freeze... but my unreliable rechargeable battery did! I almost grabbed the camera of the person beside me so that I can take Elle's photos but good thing we had a back-up, the camera with noy which was supposed to be used in taking videos. One big lesson learned from this experience is to buy a new camera, new rechargeable batteries and and keep the old one as back up:-) who knows!

Gymboree Pajama Party

Today is Pajama party in Gymboree. We were not supposed to go because we are having a playdate at Lo's residence but Noy already bought the P300 ticket (for enrolled members) so we went.

I've never been to a pajama party before and I did not have time to prepare or at least research for this event. Press for time, I just grabbed the most comfortable sleepwear that I could find in Elle's cabinet: a red t-shirt and red printed leggings (too big for her actually!) They are not actually sleepwears but I can't find any clean pajama so I thought they would do.

We were late, Gymboree was crowded, there were yayas and kids everywhere. In one corner the teacher was doing a class, gym area kids were just playing. They prepared a mini theater in the lower floor but children seems bored while watching the cinderella dvd. Elle was bored and just played with Kristine in the food area. I should have listened to my friend who said it's going to be another disorganized event.

Nevertheless, what matters most is Elle. She seems happy:-) We still love gymboree...

"This Little Light of Mine", Crispy Creme and Plenty of hugs and kisses on our 3rd Year Wedding Anniversary

Today, Noy and I celebrated our third year wedding anniversary with three things: "This Little Light of Mine", Crispy Creme and lots of hugs and kisses!

In a heated argument, Noy and I would often tell each other "pinagtitiyagaan na lang kita!" yet we are still celebrating our third year anniversary!!! I guess this is what marriage is all about patience, understanding and sweet nothings... No marriage is perfect. Kailangan lang talaga pagtiyagaan ang isa't isa. I remembered waking up last week crying because I dreamt that Noy and I parted ways. In my dream I told him to get back with me but he said I am sorry but I am afraid. I cried and cried and cried... After realizing that it was all just a dream, I immediately went to my sleeping Noy, hugged him tightly and cried and cried and cried... I warned him that if ever he tells me that he doesn't want to get back with me, I will take his word for it and never again see him! Hehehe poor Noy, he was very shocked!

In the midst of close friends' failed marriages, I am just happy that I still have Noy to hug, to argue with, to laugh with and just to do crazy things with... I usually pretend to Noy that I can make it without him just to make myself look tough but the truth is I will die without him! I just can't imagine life without his smile, his hugs and kisses, his weird kawawa look that makes my heart melt, his sexylicious body and his analysis:-) God! I am still head over heels kilig with my Noy!

Last week, I forced Noy to think of a special surprise for me today in celebration of our wedding anniversary. I told him that i wanted it to be very romantic, just the two of us, and something new! We ended up taking photos of Elle during her performance in Toddler's xmas program; eating Crispy Creme ; and walking/ strolling while holding hands (na pa sway sway pa at si Elle ay nasa gitna namin) at Bonifacio High Street!

Looks like there will never be a Noy and Ella ever again... but life is more beautiful with a Noy, Elle and Ella...

Elle Marie's first movie house experience...

Here is another milestone in my daughter's life: first movie house experience. It was last November 24, 2008; 1:00-2:30; at Powerplant; the movie is Madagascar II.

It was not the first time for Elle Marie to watch a full-length movie. She already saw almost all the Disney Princess movies: Cinderella, Snow White, Beauty and the Beast... just name it and she saw it! Her favorites are Finding Nemo, Ice Aged I and II, and Annie. She hates Toy Story I and II. I don't know why she hates them but every time I play these films she would immediately change them.

Madagascar I is Elle Marie's all time favorite. It never failed to bring out a loud giggle and laugh from her. Especially, the scene where Alex, Melman, and Gloria were celebrating Marty's 10th birthday, Elle would roll around and laugh. That is why when I learned about the Madagascar II i told myself that Elle and I should see it.

Noy was in Germany when I learned about Madagascar II! So, I immediately emailed him for a date and since, it is going to be Elle's first movie theater experience, I don't want the place to be crowded, I chose Powerplant. In preparation, we devoured seven happy meals in Mcdonald's so that Elle can have their Madagascar II collection... and we were able to complete it in two weeks!

The day came... we were in Powerplant as early as 11:30! We bought Elle her favorite cheese flavoured popcorn; I have her yogurt drink; she is wearing her barbie jacket just perfect for the temperature in the movie house...

Twenty minutes before the showing... Elle almost consumed 60% of her popcorn!!!

Lights were turned off... just a few seconds, Elle's eyes also closed... and opened when the lights were turned on... there goes Elle Marie's first movie house experience.

Elle Marie goes treat or tricking 2008

After the program, Elle and her classmates went treat or tricking in the nearby establishments. They first went to Bel-Air public clinic where they were given plastic bags of goodies... then they went to Mini Stop along Tordesillas and for the last stop they went to Banco de Oro. Elle was so excited. She walked the whole time!!! She did not cry and just smiled despite the heat and exhaustion (from all the walking).



I never experienced "treat or tricking" in my entire life. I never had it in Iloilo nor in Quezon City. Sooo this is how it feels to be in a "costume", walking outside and asking for treats. Thank God, I had Elle or else I never would have experienced doing treat or trick.



Elle's teacher Lei looked very beautiful in her Little Mermaid custome! Everybody who sees her really stopped and stare. Next year, I think I'll buy Elle a little mermaid costume for halloween:-)

Elle Marie's first performance on stage

It all happened so fast. I prepared for that moment but when it came, all I could do was freeze and just watch my daughter. When I finally came back to my senses, I remembered to take pictures of her latest milestone: performing in front of her school mates, teachers, parents and friends for Toddlers Unlimited Halloween program.

I am not familiar with Barney’s rainbow song but Elle was supposed to be “yellow” in the rainbow that is why she made her wear a yellow shirt, black tutu-like skirt, and black stockings. Honestly, I was hoping that Elle can dress up as a ballerina or princess or something “Halloween” but being “yellow” is okey with me… because Elle looks good in yellow, she likes the "sun" and she loves singing and dancing the “Mr Sun” song of Barney.

I am so amazed by my daughter’s independence. She went in front all by herself while her classmates were crying and being carried by their moms. Funny though, when the rainbow song was played, Elle just stood in front holding her ribbon and froze (like mother, like daughter). Yes, Elle just stood there the whole time it was being played!!! I guess she was overwhelmed by all the eyes looking at them; overwhelmed by the flashes of the cameras; or plainly overwhelmed. Noy attempted to make her dance by going in front of her and dance to the tune of the rainbow song (yes, just like Elle, Noy was also wearing a yellow polo! Talking about stage parentsJ) but failed. Elle just stood there and when the song ended, she shouted yehey! Clapped her hands and gave me a very big smile!

And that’s another milestone in my daughter’s life.

Field Trip: Gonuts Donuts, Fort Bonifacio

The Little Lamb Class went to Fort Bonifacio today to visit Gonuts Donuts and learn how to make donuts. Unfortunately, the weather did not cooperate. It was gloomy when we arrived in Gonuts and just a few minutes after, it rained so hard that we thought the field trip will be cancelled. Good thing, I made Elle wearher new pink barbie jacket over white shirt and jeans.

To aggravate the condition, the area was so crowded because there was another school who brought 14 buses loaded with students! We are talking about students from grade 1 to grade 6! and they were roaming around and talking loudly... God! they were so big compared to my daugther .The mom in me wanted to go and complain as I don't want my daughter to be subjected to such condition. But, good thing teacher Lei was quick to explain that there was a misunderstanding between Gonuts and Toddlers Unlimited. The trip was supposed to be exclusive for the Little Lamb Class but Gonuts got confused and booked the other school as well.

Following that, I was surprised that the "baking lesson" was done outside Gonuts. I thought that they will let our kids go inside and see beyond the glass window how they make donuts. I thought... One of the things that Elle and I enjoy so much is hang out in Crispy Creme (also in Fort Bonifacio) and eat as many donuts as we can. What's so special about this field trip then?! since we get to look at the Crispy Creme crew prepare the donuts outside their glass window?
Anyways, I don't think Elle will even remember their "baking lesson" with Gonuts. The important thing is that she got to play with her classmates and she is happy.

Elle is TWO in Laguit...

Elle turned 2 last October 1, 2008. Aside from her birthday party in Toddlers Unlimited, we decided to have another one in Laguit, Bugallon, Pangasinan where the farm being managed by Noy is located.

The children in Laguit are very close to our hearts because everytime we bring Elle to Laguit they would treat her like a "movie star"/ "princess". They would crowd around her, entertain her, play with her. Elle loves them too... Everytime she sees them she gets excited and automatically plays with them. These children reminds me of how simple life should be... there are times that i worry a lot about elle's complexion (that she should put on sunblock everytime she is out of the house), i worry about what toy to buy for elle, i worry about elle's look, i want her attire to be ALWAYS color coordinated, i worry about her shoes that it should match her attire... at times i really worry a lot but looking at these kids... i am humbled.

Of course i wanted my daughter to have a fair complexion but as Noy would always say it should be the least of my concerns! Should Elle's foreigner classmate sees Elle's tanned complexion for sure they would want to have one also; considering that our living room already looks like a toddlers school because of the soo many toys that was given to Elle, I still find time to worry about what toy i should give Elle... while the Laguit kids just get contented with swimming in the sapa, playing with cheap, barbie immitations...Once I got a request from one of the kids... she requested me to bring her back with us to Manila because she wanted to play with Elle in our house. I asked her why because she can already play with Elle in Laguit... I was almost in tears when I heard her answer... "I saw in Elle's picture that she has a lot of toys. I just want to play with them even for one day"! Grabe! Anyways, these are the reasons why we decided to hold Elle's second year birthday party in Laguit.

We were expecting 40 kids to come. Given that it is so difficult to go to the farm without transportation, (we fetched the kids from the barrio with our ever reliable UNA) I was thinking that possibly it can go up to 50... BUT to our amazement, more than 60 kids arrived! YES most gatecrashed! And they walked very long just to get to our place. I was in awe! We ran out of giveaways (but we prioritized the toddlers) but the food was more than enough. (some even took home some food). Funny but the "cotton candy" man that we got almost surrendered with the number of kids asking for cotton candies!!! We had longest happy birthday, balloon walk, apple eating, bring me, banana eating, longest line, beer drinking(for fathers), softdrink drinking (for moms), break the pot and pabitin!

At first i was worrying about the venue set up, tables etc BUT i was amazed how innovative people from laguit can me... they sat on the trees, some looked for a big rock and sat on it, three kids were even sharing in one paper plate... they never cared about the party lay out or decoration... they just want to eat and enjoy!

At the end of the day... the kids and parents really had a great time. They told us that it was the first time that they were invited to a birthday party as grand as that (ngek) They were very happy with the giveaways, all of the kids are excited to go to school because they have new school bag and school supplies...


When we were left alone, Noy, Elle and I swam on the natural pool beside our tree house and thanked God for all the blessings that He has showered us with. He has showered us with each other... supportive friends and families, good health and just enough financial resources to keep us alive...

Barney in Toddlers Unlimited

Today, Elle Marie celebrated her 2^nd year birthday with her classmates in Toddlers Unlimited. They had a Barney Day in class! Elle blew the two pink candles on top of her Barney Cake and they all had Barney cupcakes! Elle Marie was wearing her light pink, polka dots jumper while her classmates wore their Barney party hats! Elle especially enjoyed distributing her giveaways-Barney stuff toys to her classmates.

Elle may not completely comprehend everything that is happening to her right now but, I know that someday she will remember and appreciate her “Barney in Toddlers Unlimited Day”.

The day Pablo came for Elle Marie's birthday

Today, Elle Marie turned two. Pablo came to visit Elle but we told him that as much as we appreciated his visit if he can make it very short as Elle is having a birthday party tomorrow. PAGASA was forecasting that his full strength will be felt by NCR early in the morning tomorrow just in time for Elle Marie’s party in Toddlers Unlimited. Thank God! Pablo was nice, after seeing Elle he changed his pace and immediately proceeded to Japan.

I remembered it was also like this when I gave birth to Elle two years ago. Milenyo came to town thinking that I will give birth to Elle earlier but she missed Elle by two days. Also, last year when another typhoon came just when Elle was having her first year birthday party in Makati Park and Garden.

I don’t know what’s with these typhoons that they just can’t have enough of Elle. Maybe they just want to add spice to Elle Marie’s birthday. Maybe they just want to shower Elle with blessings. Or simply they just want to greet Elle on her birthday.

If you’re going to ask me, I think it just show that Elle is well loved by everyone including the typhoons…

Falling in love with Barney...

I never liked dinosaurs. I love green for the very obvious reason that I am a green blooded LaSallite. I love pink-fuschia because I think it complements my complexion. But, I never liked the big claws, the big eyes, and the old and dry skin of dinosaurs… That is why while my friends’ children adore Barney, I try to delay introducing him to Elle.

I don’t know or understand what state of mind I was when I finally bought Elle’s one and only Barney CD (take note, CD while all Elle’s “Hi Five!” are in DVD!). But, it took a while before Elle noticed it. First it was “Bear in the Big Blue House”, then came “Big Bird of Sesame Street”, after that “Hi Five” and all of the sudden I just woke up and Elle likes Barney! She even sings Barney’s “I love you” song!!! She dances the “If you’re happy…” song and imitates with matching “bear” as props the “Me and my Teddy” song!!!

Since Elle is into “Barney”, I was forced to prepare a “Barney in the Toddlers Unlimited” birthday party for her. I bought Barney banner, Barney party hats, Barney stuff toy for giveaways. I plan to buy Barney paper plates and cups, fuschia or green spoon and fork, Barney balloons and Barney cake!!!

Of course, my shopping will never be complete if I did not buy Elle’s very own Barney stuff toy!!! that comes with BJ and Baby Bop! The bonus part, they are all singing the “I love you..” song with just one squeeze of their bellies!

I was so excited that I did not wait for Elle’s birthday and immediately gave her the new stuff toys as soon as I got home. (whatever happened to my EQ) I first gave her BJ and Baby Bop. She looked confused because both are singing the “I love you” song in Barney’s voice!!! After that I brought out Barney from the paper bag! For a moment, I thought the world stopped. I can still remember how Elle’s face radiated when she saw Barney! She screamed “Barney”, hugged him and repeatedly shouted Wow! Wow! Wow!

I was almost in tears. I thought I was in heaven looking at my daughter’s smile that I almost kissed Barney myself… Reflecting on my own love-life, I never thought that I will actually fall in love and eventually marry Noy. He is not the typical guy that could make me look twice. But, I did and now we have Elle. Maybe it’s not the physical appearance (although, I REALLY find my husband VERY handsome and sexy) but how one can make your heart melt.

Barney made my heart melt by making Elle very happy. I think I love Barney already…

Speding Grandparents Day with Lola Moyette and Lolo Leo

This year Elle Marie celebrated the Grandparents Day in Iloilo City with Lola Moyette and Lolo Leo. This was not the only reason why we went home to Iloilo. We went home primarily because it was Lola Moyette and Tita Bebe’s birthday! It was also perfect timing because we needed a new yaya for Elle so, we got Yaya Mylene.

My family is not the “expressive” type. It is seldom that my parents would complement me, hug me or kiss me for no reason at all. We never talked about emotions, we never discussed heart problems. One perfect example was when I had my first boyfriend. My parents never asked me why him. They never said anything about my boyfriend but you can sense that they don’t like him. It was only after we broke up that my parents told me that they have been praying that I break up with him for reasons I already know…

But, after having Elle things changed with my parents. My mother came all the way from Iloilo when I gave birth to Elle. She was there for me during my labor (but not inside the delivery room), she was there to see Elle when she was first brought out of the delivery room. She was there for me during the first month of my motherhood. She organized Elle’s grand sixth month birthday in Iloilo. She would kidnap Elle while I was asleep and bring her to the plaza. Lola Moyette is sooo proud of her apo.

But, my greatest surprise was my father who seldom speaks or smile. Up to this date, me and my sisters would always say that of all the girls he had in his life, (Nene, Mama, Bebe, Me and Elle) It was only Elle Marie who landed in his cellphone (his wallpaper is Elle Marie!!), who got a space in his wallet (He carries in his wallet Elle Marie’s picture!!!) and who got a spot in his office (He has a large picture frame with Elle Marie’s picture in his office)!

They say that our time with our parents was up (me and my sisters) and it is now Elle Marie’s time. I don’t care. I am very happy that my parents love Elle Marie very much.

Meet Professor Oplas

My project with CIDA was completed last August and while waiting for a new job, I will teach in the Economics Department of De La Salle University... Hahahaha!

I myself is still in the denial stage. I could not believe that I said yes to teaching in Economics Department! I was just visiting my Ninang Telly that time when my close friend, Marvin who is the vice chair of the department invited me to teach. At first he told me that he is just looking for a substitute to take on his load for one month so I said Yes! without hesitation. However, he added that maybe, just maybe... I would like to get a load for myself so that all preparation will not be wasted?!!! And everybody in the department encouraged me to say yes... How can I say no to my Ninang Telly? to my former professors both in undergrad and masters?!

Yesterday in the middle of my lecture demo, I was asking myself why would i want to present in front of students instead of my former bosses in PEARL2 and CIDA?!; why would i take time to prepare lesson plans for students instead of briefing notes for the anadian Ambassador?!; why would I rather have discussions with student rather than our SME beneficiaries?!

My heart replied,, being in La Salle is good for my heart especially that I want to get rid of my hypertension. La Salle has always been my comfort zone, i know almost everybody there (everybody smiles at me and I can even enter without leaving my ID with the South gate guard), most of my friends are still in La Salle, (as a matter of fact all my closest friends are in La Salle!), i feel young, and i just love being green! hehehe

The funniest part of this all?! I will teach Introduction to Microeconomics and Macroeconomics... Yes, MACROECONOMICS! Good thing I still have my Dr. Dakila notes with me:-)

So... let the adventure of Professor Ella Oplas begin!!!

I finally let go of Elle Marie's Ate D...

It is not everyday that I get to have somebody with a smile that could launch a hundred ships. That despite the numerous scolding, can still manage to smile and laugh as if nothing happens. I love Diane. Even though I lost it with her a couple of times already, I don’t know how come it is so easy to forgive her. Maybe I love her because she reminds me of my youngest sister Bebe. Maybe I love her because of the way she makes Elle sleep and smile; looks very pretty; and more importantly eat and drink her vitamins!!! Maybe I love her because I know she loves Elle so much.

I love Diane that is why I am letting her go. I don’t want the time to come that I will not be able to control myself and just die of heart attack. And just like what Noy told me, I don’t want to aggravate Diane’s nervous break down because of my scoldings. I know that with proper nurture from her family Diane will come a long way. She has the desire to learn, the perseverance and the childlike disposition to survive. I told Diane that when she gets home, she evaluates her life there. Honestly, I don’t know what is waiting for her in Iloilo considering their financial struggle now. But, if she thinks that she would be better off in Manila with me, I’ll take her back.

This morning, Diane left for Iloilo early in the morning. I was not able to wake up and send her to the airport because I was too exhausted the night before taking care of Elle. I thought I was dreaming when Diane went up our room and kissed me goodbye. Noy told me I was not.

She then texted me, ‘murning nang, hr na me sa departure… 8:20 and boarding time q… take care olwz and tke care of urself… luv u so much… thnx 4 everything”.

Who would not love Diane. I guess I’ll just see her in Iloilo…

Elle Marie's last day in Gym Class Level 4...

As Elle Marie turns 22 months old, she is proceeding to Level 5 of her Gym Class in Gymboree... It will be a new world for her. Her classmates will be more mature and bigger in size. Elle Marie is very excited! She just attended her trial class last Monday with teacher Pat. Although there were just two of them in the class - Elle and Bianca - Elle really had a great time playing Fire Fighter Elle.

Elle is looking forward to her regular class which will start next saturday. (Teacher Welly was not present yesterday)

Congratulations Elle Marie! Mama and Papa are sooo proud of you!

Elle and Toddlers Unlimited

Elle Marie had her trial class in Toddlers Unlimited today. She was the only girl of five students in Little Lamb Class. Her classmate in Gymboree, Lili was supposed to be in her class but she went on a month Europe trip with her parents.

I am so proud of my daughter. Eventhough everybody was new to her, she did not cry while she was in class. She especially liked the gold fishes inside the aquarium and the building blocks inside her class room. One of her classmates was not able to resist and stole a kiss on elle's cheeks. Noy said maybe he thought elle is a doll because she was wearing a skirt in class;-)

I like teacher Gabby, the school directress. she really knows what she is doing. I like the way she explained to me their school philosophy. I also like Teacher Liza, she's the silent type but i think she knows how to handle her class. Teacher Lei is cute. I like the child in her. I especially appreciated her when she had elle sit on her lap during reading time and when she assisted elle in the ramp area. I like Yaya Yan's smile.

The ramp time was very familiar with Elle! It was like gymboree time for her less Mama and Teacher Welly. I noticed that all the boys liked running around while Elle liked climbing. Maybe its the gymboree baby in her that makes Elle prefer to climb instead of running with the boys.

God, I so love Elle...

Life is so beautiful with Noy but it is more beautiful now that we have Elle Marie...

Full-time with Elle...

I am on my third week as a full-time, domesticated, technology-free Mom to Elle Marie and I am starting to really love it! Who would not love my life right now? I get to see elle every minute of the day, give her a bath, choose her dress, choose her accessories, watch Hi Five with her, sing "rain rain go away..." so that we can go malling, cook for her, read her book, draw with her... I just can't get enough of Elle:-)

Elle is now 22 months old! Two months to go and she will turn 2!!! Grabe! parang just like yesterday when i sent out her first year birthday party invitation! Starting next week, Elle will go to school there every Tuesday and Thursday:-) That is aside her Gymboree classes every Saturday. Grabe! mas busy pa schedule ni Elle kesa sa akin!

Now, that I am full-time in taking good care of Elle I realized that my daughter is growing and learning a lot very fast! She has her own preferrences already... She loves watching Iced Age 1 and 2, madagascar compared to finding nemo and little mermaid! She likes cooking eggs instead of chicken! She likes pink over purple (hehehe bakit kaya?!) She likes wearing skirt over pants...

I guess I will just have to cherish every second that I have right now before I return to work again... I will definitely miss this.

A tribute to Elle Marie's Ate D.

I almost lost it last week with Elle's yaya. I know that I am a good person but I don't know why I had to keep up with her limitations... She has hearing problem and I am forced to repeat my directions or scream to the top of my lungs so that she will understand and do it correctly.

But, after being home all the time, I had a change of heart. I realized that being a yaya is not as easy as I thought it would be. It is a very noble job. It takes patience, presence of mind and a BIG heart to be a Yaya. Just imagine keeping up with a 22 month old adventurer baby like mine with strict fashion requirements?! Haha Good thing I have Diane... She is young, bubbly, can speak straight english (mega extra point), has good fashion sense, can keep up with Elle's energy and clean. But, most of all... Diane is trust-worthy. I can leave Elle with her all day without worrying for her safety.

I love Diane. She keeps my daughter healthy, happy, clean and beautiful... I guess nobody is perfect and sometimes, one just have to appreciate what they have... I am just happy I have her.

Our beloved Elle Marie...

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

A Call for Attention to the Philippine Coast Guard from a Concern Mother

I love beaches but I dread riding any form of water transportation. I would rather take the Bacolod-Manila-Iloilo trip for a minimum of four hours amidst the high cost of airfare than ride the one hour direct boat trip from Bacolod to Iloilo.

I don’t know when this fear started, all I can recall is one dreadful experience I had after our wedding in 2005. Noy, Bebe (my youngest sister) and I went to Bacolod for our “island hopping” honeymoon. It was a day after Christmas day and a week after the unwelcomed visit of typhoon “Seniang” to our wedding day. The waves were still strong and heavy while the sea looks very angry. In the middle of our trip, I saw smoke coming from the back of our boat. I almost screamed with nervousness but I calmed myself, held my sister’s hands and told her to have her life vest near her. I did not worry about Noy because I know he is a good swimmer. I told him not to worry about me and help my sister because she does not know how to swim. The boat stopped, white smoke enveloped the whole boat but we stayed calm and waited for the captain’s advice. Soon we heard a coughing sound of the boat’s engine and it started again. As we proceed, the smoke goes out of the boat until we reached Bacolod.

I would always tell my friends that I don’t want to die inside a boat because I don’t want to endure the gradual death of drowning. Just imagine the panic, fear, and gradual loss of breathing. I don’t want to be killed softly. I want to die instantly! But kidding and paranoia aside, I don’t want to die drowning.

I once drowned in Puerto Galera during our office outing. Good thing my officemates were quick and saved me. M But, that caused me years of staying on the shore making sand castles. It was only in 2004 that I decided to conquer my fear, enroll in a swimming lesson and swam again.

After hearing what happened to Princess of the Star, my fear was heightened because Noy, Elle and I are taking the one-hour boat ride from Bacolod to Iloilo to visit my parents just after Typhoon Frank exits the Philippines. I almost told Noy to skip our Iloilo trip and go back to Manila directly from Bacolod but I missed my family in Iloilo. So I told myself that I should serve as a role model to Elle. Elle loves water and I should not give her any hint that I am afraid of drowning or else, she will end up fearing the water too. As soon as we are inside the Weesam 3, I looked for our life vest. Mine was just under my seat but I could not find one for Elle. I asked a crew for a life vest for infants, which is usually automatically given inside airplanes. The crew went and came back with a guy in a complete white uniform. The guy in a complete white uniform told me that it is their policy not to give out life vest when there is no emergency. I argued that I need the life vest for my daughter because I would not know when emergency would strike! I even told him that I will inform the Philippine Coast Guard about this incident because it is my daughter’s right to be secured and their responsibility to ensure our security. He just looked at me and went away. I was not able to get that person’s name as I was in the window side carrying Elle but I can perfectly identify him in a line-up. I will never forget his face because I almost begged for him to give me a life vest for Elle but he just ignored me. To set the facts straight, we took the 11:20 trip because the 9:30 trip got cancelled.

I just hope that somebody from Weesam or the Philippine Coast Guard can read this and do something about it.

God has a reason...

After missing my period for almost one month, I finally went to see an OB-Gyne last Wednesday. Dra Gigi do not have a consultation schedule on Wednesday so I went to see Dra Brion. She told me that all my symptoms could mean I have hormonal imbalance but asked me to undergo ultrasound examination.

The next day (yesterday), I went back to Healthway and had my ultrasound examination... I almost did not make it because the radiologist left before I arrived but I argued that I was not late and that I need it ASAP. Hence, Healthway panicked and looked for him... good thing he is still inside Market! Market!

The impression: Normal-sized anteverted uterus with thickened endometrial stripe; left ovarian cyst (anechoic cyctic mass measuring 20X23mm); intact right ovary (34x16mm with note of few small follicles); and minimal free fluid in the cul de sac.

The first thing that came in my mind is: I would rather be pregnant than have this cyst inside me!.. The stress that gave this to me is not worth the financial and career blessings that I have been receiving...

After a good, sound sleep last night, I am now staring at our family picture that i have as background for my laptop. This picture (the one featured in this blog) was taken during a dinner for Noy's family friend who are leaving for Canada three weeks ago. Noy, Elle and I looked so happy! It is a genuine picture of three persons so in-love with each other. How can I say that "it was that stress that gave me this cyst?" This is a VERY unfair statement to say to God. He has given me a lot of blessings yet I still have time to complain! Who knows, it is really the time for me to slowdown and focus on more important things that matter in life... like my health, Elle and Noy's health, and my family and friends' health. There most be a reason why I have this cyst now! God is perfect and only him knows the reason why things are happening as they had.

I have to stop all of these nonsense speculations and worries. This is not worth my minute. And this is not what God wants me to do. He wants me to be productive and think positive! Tomorrow, I will be seeing Dra Gigi and she will tell me what to do. Until then, Cebu Business Month here I come!

Elle Marie's First International Trip Part II

Tara na sa McDo...
A Tribute to McDonald Restaurants Around the World!!!

My boss asked how our Bangkok-Hongkong trip was and I answered "One thing we discovered, Ronald Mcdonalds in Bangkok has their hands clasped together as if saying a prayer". He stared at me for a few seconds and smiled...

There are at least 250 McDonalds restaurant all around the Philippines. Elle and I were not contented that we had to try the ones in Bangkok and HongKong to see the difference:-) In Bangkok, we tried the McDonalds in The One Mall. We had Fish Fillet Sandwich, French Fries and Large Coke... No difference from the Fish Fillet Sandwich, French Fries and Large Coke served in the Philippines. The service crew doesn't speak english so I had to point them to my order. Of course, the supposed to be budget meal in Bangkok is very expensive compared to the one in the Philippines it is like P150: P70 (Bangkok: Philippine price)

McDonald's at The One, Bangkok

The first place Elle and I visited in HongKong is Stanley Market. It was almost 12:00 noon that time so instead of shopping for clothes, we looked for a nearby McDonalds restaurant. After a long labyrinth like rainy walk inside the Stanley Market and Stanley Plaza, we found McDonalds! Again, we ordered Fish Fillet Sandwich, French Fries and Large Coke. The service crew doesn't speak english so again, I had to point them to my order.

Since it was just me and Elle, I requested them to assist me in bringing our food tray to our table. It took awhile before they understood my request. I had to do my "charades" act and it was hard given that Elle is very heavy and I was all wet from the rain! But, that God the food really tasted okey. No difference to the McDonald food served in the Philippines:-) But, the price!!! very expensive!

McDonald's at Stanley Plaza, HongKong

Next stop is at WanChai Computer Center in Hong Kong Island. Just the same with the one in Stanley Plaza but this one is a lot busier... Elle especially liked the French Fries!

McDonald's in Wanchai Computer Center, HongKong

The next photo is different from the previous ones because it was taken in front of McDonalds at MongKok! Elle was so sleepy and I had to find a place where I can lay her down to sleep. Good thing I found this McDonalds restaurant along "I forgot the street!". I think Elle slept for 45 minutes! I finished eating our orders, reading the baby magazines and smiling at all the passersby! Finally, when Elle woke up she asked for French Fries.

McDonalds in Mongkok, HongKong

This Mom-daughter adventure may look odd to others but I can feel that Elle also enjoyed it. I know that to some McDonalds food is not your typical "healthy food" but what can I say... I grew up with McDonalds and I don't see any harm in sharing it with Elle:-)

Disclaimer: We also tried other restaurants in Bangkok and HongKong. We enjoyed all of them!!!