There will always be a reason to smile...

There is no doubt that I have been so blessed all my life. God's love for me is so overwhelming that at times I ask myself what more should I do to make Him feel that I love Him so. I have a loving family who has been ever supportive of my endeavors; friends who are there for me through thick and thin; good health; and comfortable life. It would be selfish of me to ask for more...

But God is good and all knowing. This year, He surprised me when I was asked to join the Philippine Commission on Women. Despite the fact that both of my parents are "public servants" I never dreamed of becoming one... in fact, I took my Civil Service Exam only last year! Cliche as it may seem but I believe that in my own little way, I can do something for myself, for our government (regardless who the president is) and our country wherever I am.

Not only that, God blessed me with a competent, vibrant and pro-active team. The Monitoring and Evaluation Division team. They are the reasons why I look forward to going to work everyday. They inspire me to do more and go beyond the expectations.

This Christmas, I have nothing but gratefulness to God for all the love that He has showered me with...

Thank you God!

Four and aiming for the Fourth (member of the family)!

Come to think of it... I waited almost four years to finally have Noy and now, I had him for four years!

No marriage is perfect. Ours is not. I am not perfect and neither is Noy. Despite these imperfections, I am happy that I still have my sexy-licious, still funny at times, handsome, one and only husband-Nonoy. It would have been a one, boring, miserable life without Nonoy.

Yes, I have to say that this marriage is worth waiting for four years...

I love you Noy!!!

Mwah! mwah! mwah!

My Bestfriend's Wedding...

It was a dream come true for me to finally see my bestfriend, BOC say "i do" with his princess. BOC is such a good friend, a competent "substitute" boyfriend and a "kaladkarin" shopping buddy. He deserves no one but the best!

I really don't know Princess that well but during the few instances that I talked with BOC he always tell me that she makes him happy... hence,what more can I ask for? I just want my big hearted friend happy.
Side trip lang... I was telling myself that I will not cry when BOC gets married. I am sorry, but I was too weak and had to shed a few tear drops when I saw my daughter walk down the aisle of San Agustin Church! I can't help but be amazed by my daughter's beauty, confidence and independence while walking down the aisle. She was all alone and since she was the smallest, she was the first to walk among the flower girls.

I am so proud of my daughter!

Missing Trick or treat 2009

I can’t believe I missed Elle Marie’s trick or treat in school this year! Worse, I can’t believe Noy did not go to Toddlers Unlimited to document this memorable activity in Elle Marie’s life. Worst, we relied too much on our yaya and Noy’s cellphone camera to do everything for us and look at what happened?! Poor quality photos!

Should I blame the GREAT Women project for scheduling the Project Steering Committee meeting today? Should I blame Noy for his poor time management? Should I blame myself for not having enough savings to buy a new digicam?! Should I blame Lucy for not knowing how to get good photos of Elle Marie?

All I want to do is be with Elle Marie. Witness and document everything for her because I know that ten years from now, she will not be able to remember everything. She will not remember the efforts that we put into every event like this just for her. She will not remember how it is to be a ballerina and go trick or treating.

I never got to do trick or treating my whole life. Trick or treating was an unknown concept back then when I was 3 and in Iloilo. I never got to be a ballerina my whole life. I wanted to be one but never got to because of my hernia. Now that all of these are coming into reality through Elle Marie, I can’t believe I am just listening to Lucy (Elle Marie’s yaya) recount how Elle Marie had a great time with her classmates.

But, this is life… I have work to do, people to train (how to take good photos) resources to acquire. I know Elle Marie will understand... I know that in time I will find the heart to forgive myself...

Yes, this is life...

KL-Singapore Day Two: Doing Weekend Market the Malaysian way

Here in the Philippines, I normally don't bring Elle Marie with me to the market but since we were in Kuala Lumpur and would like to experience the city, i took her to the weekend market in _________________ .

It is not a regular market in KL because it only opens with a limited stall every Sunday. We noticed that most of the customers were caucasians/ foreign looking and learned that this market is like the "Salcedo Weekend Market" in Makati that caters to expats living within the Makati Central Business District. They have shawls, bags, food, fruits, vegetables and almost everything you can find in a typical market in Manila.

As a self confessed Pinoy window shopper, we ended up not buying anything except for food. I kept on converting everything that I fancy to Philippine Peso and thought that it is cheaper to buy in Baclaran or Divisoria plus, I don't have to carry anything with me all the way from KL-Singapore and back to the Manila! Noy bought corn for Elle Marie which she immediately consumed! I tasted it... ummm no difference actually from the P25 we buy from the manong in the street in Manila.

KL-Singapore Day Two: A visit to the Petronas Towers

One cannot say that they have been to Kuala Lumpur without visiting the famous 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers, the world's tallest twin structure. Of course, it was the first in Elle Marie's itinerary.

It was a lazy day. Elle Marie woke up late, went to Central Mall for a quick shopping, had lunch and slept at the crowded Suria Shopping Complex. In short, she was able to see the Petronas Twin Towers but was not able to go up the towers! Nevertheless, having a photo opportunity with the Twin Towers was enough. It was difficult though. It was so sunny. And, in the absence of a real digicam we only used our nokia cellphone camera which was difficult because the twin towers were really tall and would not fit our cellphone camera.

An anecdotal note: while taking a photo of Elle Marie with the Petronas Twin Tower, an arab looking guy approached us and asked if he may have a photo with Elle Marie. Shocked but flattered, we allowed him to have a photo with Elle Marie and Papa. Noy and I were unsure whether the guy mistaken Elle Marie as a malaysian because of the skirt she was wearing but we contented ourselves with thinking that maybe the guy thought Elle Marie is very cute and worth the photo opp:-)

KL-Singapore Day One: Three countries in one day...

Elle Marie in Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3

Who can say that they have conquered three countries in one day? Elle Marie can!

Today, Elle Marie was able to visit three countries in one day. Her starting point is the Philippines where she boarded a Cebu Pacific airplane on the way to Singapore. From Singapore, she took the Jet Star airplane to Kuala Lumpur! Three countries in one day...

Elle Marie with Mama and Papa in Changi Airport Terminal 1, Singapore

This is not Elle Marie's first international trip but her first time to visit Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Elle Marie's papa has a week long conference in Singapore and the family decided to visit Uncle Bryan in KL on their way to Singapore. It was also Elle Marie's mama first time to go to KL so both the mom and daughter tandem were really excited for the visit.

Elle Marie and Papa in Kuala Lumpur Internatinal Airport, Malaysia

Both Mama and Elle Marie were overwhelmed by the sizes of the airports in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. They have trains inside the terminals, walkalators and playgrounds! How they wish, we also have those things in the Philippines.

Preparing an Elmo birthday party just for Elle Marie!

Every October 2, I really take some time off just to think about how Elle Marie will celebrate her next birthday. Funny huh?! Friends call me "stage mom", others "schools best and worst friend", and some tag me as plain OC, idle mom...

This year, again my OC-ness proved to be VERY helpful because I was not expecting to take on a full-time job one month before Elle Marie's birthday. Good thing I am focused and has planned way ahead... SEE? There is beauty in being a stage and OC mom after all!

They say that a child undergo stages in her life... There was a time that Elle Marie loves Barney. She had a "Barney" themed birthday party last year! We took Barney with us to Bangkok, Hongkong and Singapore! Elle Marie also underwent Hi Five-> Iced Age -> Madagascar and the list goes on and on... This year, it is Elmo. It all started with the Elmo DVDs that she watches the whole day... and there's that Elmo song that she sings the whole day! It goes like this.. "Elmo loves his Mama, Elmo loves his Papa, Elmo loves... you" Then Tita Nene bought her two sets of Elmo DVDs (with 3 dvds inside) and the whole Sesame gang (Elmo, Grover, Bert and Ernie)... While, Mama bought her Elmo bag... In short, it is just too obvious that Elle Marie LOVES Elmo and that she should celebrate her 3rd year birtday the Elmo way!
Elle Marie is so lucky to be surrounded by people who truly loves her. Lola Moyette bought her Elmo giveaways! Tita Nene bought her elmo attire that she will wear for her party! Tita Bebe took time off from work and helped pack her elmo goodies! Papa was the financer and driver at the same time:-) Lola Marlyn prepared elmo lollipops! Of course Mama, was the master mind amidst her work load!

Today is October 2. Today marks the first day of preparation for Elle Marie's 4th year birthday party!

Panic buying... on Elle Marie's bday!

Today, October 1 is Elle Marie's actual birthday day. Since Elle Marie already had her grand celebration yesterday in school and in Greenbelt with friends, we decided to take the day off. I went to work just like any ordinary weekday while Elle Marie spends her day with Tita Bebe since it is her day off.

In the evening, we decided to "panic buy" for the arrival of super typhoon pepeng and visited the newly opened Hypermart. We bought only the basics Elle Marie's milk, chichria, fruits, and vegetables. While Tita Nene bought beauty products:-) Everybody was busy doing their grocery!!!You can see in everyone's look that they are thinking about typhoon Pepeng!

Today, Elle Marie wishes that the Philippines we spared from the wrath of typhoon Pepeng. A lot have not recovered yet from the damage of Ondoy and everyday our heart cries to the thousands of fellow Filipinos, especially babies and kids that are still in the evacuation centers.

Everyday, we thank God for sparing us and most of our love ones from Ondoy. God is good all the time!

Elle Marie celebrates Bday the Elmo way!

While the rest of the Metro Manila is still submerged in the flood caused by "Ondoy", we took time out and celebrated Elle Marie's 3rd year birthday party in Toddlers Unlimited today. It was a simple celebration just like last year. Elle Marie had her most loved - Elmo cake, cupcakes, and bag of goodies to share with her friends. She also gave away Elmo stuff toys to thank he friend for sharing this day with her.
As usual, I was almost in tears when I saw how happy Elle Marie was! She was smiling and posing (!) the whole time! She blew the three candles on her cake with a smile! When she saw the cake this morning in the car, she really loved it and doesn't want to get off the car! She showed everybody her new (bought last night) Elmo attire given by her Tita Nene! And she introduced her Tita Bebe, who took the day out from work just to be with her today, to her friends and teachers.I am happy that Elle Marie is happy and safe from the flood. I am happy for my two sisters who loves Elle so much.

Above all, I am happy that we are all safe from the disaster that was caused by Ondoy...

God bless!

Four days at work and still missing Elle Marie...

Last Saturday, we had lunch at Cloud 9, Antipolo. Elle Marie saw this painting inside the Cafe. She asked me to carry her just like in the painting and said "Mama, Elle Marie (while pointing to the painting). Baby, Elle Marie (while pointing to the baby and herself)"

How can I work and miss out being with my daughter, witnessing every milestone in her life, and taking part of every anecdotal stories that can be written about her? How can I wake up early in the morning to go to work and miss giving her a bath, singing the rainbow song with her, eat with her, and give her medicines? How can I spend the whole day reading about Gender and Development and miss watching her wash her own hands in school, seeing her run towards me with a giggle before ramp time, spending time with her in Starbucks and eating here favorite donut?

Partly, I can go to work because I know that my mother is here taking good care of Elle Marie. Nonoy is also home most of the time to watch her while working and I will be home as early as I can.

I am on my fourth day at work, and I am missing Elle Marie! more each day I know this feeling will never go away. I just hope that when Elle Marie grows up, she will understand what a great sacrifice this is for me. I have to work.

Thank God for Mama!

My mother is heaven sent.

She came just in time to save me from worrying about leaving Elle Marie with our new helper now that I have a new job. It was like a dream. One afternoon, I was praying in Greenbelt chapel when I received a call from GREAT Women saying that they would like me to join their organization the soonest and would like to meet up with me to discuss the details. Of course, I was flattered but I worried about Elle Marie. Then, I got a text from my friend's former helper, Lucy saying that she is joining us sooner than expected. I was a little relieved. But late in the evening, I was ecstatic when I got a call from my mother saying that she can now go to Manila and take care of Elle Marie! Who can better take good care of my daughter than my one and only mother! True to what she said, my mother arrived August 28 just 3 days before my first day with GREAT Women.
But, this is not the only thing that I am grateful of my mother. Now that I have experienced being a full-time mom as well as working mom, my heart goes out to my mother who took care of the four of us while teaching. Of course, my father was there but he was always out for work. My nanay, lolo, titas and tito were there but nothing compares to having your mother take good care of you. My mother said that she and my father are quite contented with life now since all of their children graduated already. Now my parents are reaping what they have sowed a few years back... and they deserve it!My heart bleeds everytime I remember the sacrifices that my mother has to experience so that I can study in Manila. I can't imagine the sleepless nights she had thinking of how I am in Manila while she is in Iloilo. Come to think of it, I can't think straight if I don't see Elle Marie in one day! How much more if I don't see her in more than 6 months?!! I think I would go crazy!There were a couple of times that my mother told me, that she can't feel my love for her. Maybe I am partly to be blamed because I am not expressive. But, if only my Mama could open my heart, she'll see how grateful I am to be her daughter. God knows how much I truly love her! Elle Marie adores her!

I love you Mama!!!

Separation Anxiety Attacks!!!

Elle Marie didn't go to school today because she is having diarrhea and fever. She is now home, sitting on Tita Nene's bed and watching Ice Age 2 after completing 5 Elmo DVDs and Ice Age 3. She has been laughing, screaming and giggling the whole time that makes me wonder whether she is really sick... but of course, I prefer her this way than seeing her just lying on the bed and looking frail.

Last Monday, I said yes to being the Assistant Program Manager for GREAT Women project. This project is funded by the Canadian International Development Agency, the same organization that funded PEARL2 (my former office). This is actually a big leap from my Monitoring and Evaluation Officer position with PEARL2 and of course, heavier load.

On my way home after meeting with the Project Management team, I felt a sudden cold tingle in my body. It dawned on me that I just said yes to not being with Elle Marie 24/7. I will not be able to play Elle Marie as frequent as I wish. And, situations like today (Elle Marie is sick) makes me wonder whether I made the right decision.

This job offer came as a surprise to me. I did not apply for it. I was actually applying for a position in NCFRW based on my friend's recommendation (NCRFW is the local executing agency of GREAT Women project) It took so long for them to process my application so I did not really expect. Then, I remembered one afternoon after Elle Marie recovered from pneumonia, we decided to go to Gymboree Greenbelt5 and dropped by the chapel. I was so overwhelmed that time. I felt tired because of the sleepless nights, emotionally down, i felt alone. I went to the confessional corner and talked with the priest about my burdens. He told me to pray and I did.

That same afternoon, GREAT Women project called me saying that they are interested in getting me for the position and would like to meet me to discuss it further. At first, I was flattered but I worried about Elle Marie. Then, I got a text message from our new maid saying that she is joining us on the 22nd of August... Then I got a call from my mother saying that she is coming to Manila to help me with Elle Marie...

When it rains, it pours. Yes, I will still have separation anxiety attacks once in a while. I will still worry about my daughter. Who wouldn't? But I am excited and thankful that my mother is coming over. I know that Elle Marie will be in better hands with my mother.

True Confession of a Farm Town addict...

I have been in denial for almost one month but now, I am coming out in the open. I am a Farm Town addict!

It started July 12, 2009 when I posted in facebook "sa sobrang pagmamahal sa akin ng asawa ko, sumali sya sa Fashion War at Mafia War para lang tulungan akong dumami ang posse at mafia family ko!!! ganyan ako kamahal ng asawa ko:-)" and my friend Kimm commented "te un farm town mo din". The next day, I played Farm Town and the rest is history.

Now, I am in level 29, got $400k++ coins, have Blueberries ready for harvest and I already bought Elle Marie her much awaited playground! What more can I ask for? My friend Cheryl replied... a gazebo. Yes, I am now working on getting a gazebo so that Noy and I will have our own romantic and private place. I will put this on the left side of our house, in the garden area, near the pond... Everynight, after we put Elle Marie to sleep, Noy and I will spend few minutes together in the gazebo making up for the day's hard work...

I have been scolded by Noy a couple of times already for playing Farm Town. He was the first one who branded me "Farm Town addict", insulted me by saying the game is not "intellectually stimulating" and once made me cry by accusing me of neglecting Elle Marie because of my addiction. Of course, I was so furios. Yes, I am a Farm Town addict but I only play whenever Elle Marie is in class, sleeping, or watching Elmo! Other than that, I spend every second of my life taking good care of my dear daughter, Elle Marie...

I hope that one day, Noy will appreciate Farm Town for the enjoyment it brings to me. Being a full time mom without maid is a very tough job. Of course, my daughter is my source of happiness and she is the only reason why I keep on going. But, I would be lying if I say that I don't get stressed out or drained. Especially now that my friend Sharon left for Singapore, I really don't have anyone to talk with about Elle Marie's progress, playdates, hubby... Yes, I have other friends who can relate with me but they all have work and doesn't have time for a chat while my single friends just can't relate... In Farm Town, I get to make my dream garden, buy stuff for Elle Marie, chat with friends and for few minutes in one day forget about all my worries in life...

I love Farm Town!

Yaya ranting: Things I learned from the youngest and oldest maid

If you think you have read the end of my yaya ranting... you are wrong! The saga continues to yaya 07 to yaya 08. And now, it is just Elle Marie and Mama again... soooo happy together!

This roller coaster experience of hiring and firing/ letting go of yaya is just too exhausting for me... I don't think I am setting high standards for my yayas. All I am asking for were breakfast, lunch and dinner for Noy; take extra care of Elle Marie's things (especially her 3 precious cabinets); regularly clean Elle Marie's play area; do the laundry at their own convenience; she eats what we eat; I am with Elle Marie 24/7. At times, I blame myself for my shortcomings. Noy said, I shouldn't expect too much but I always argue "Isn't my life supposed to be lighter because we have them?" I am no saint but I can be evil if the situation calls for it.

I remember Yaya 07, she came after Harlene who came with her sister Patpat in May (I don't consider Harlene a maid rather a big sister to Elle hence she is not counted). Yaya 07 is a distant relative of Nong Endring, Noy'smost trusted farm caretaker and our ninong. She is the 4th of 12 siblings!!! She claims that she was maltreated by her former boss for one year! She is 16 and the youngest among the 8 maids we had so far.

Yaya 07's first day with us was an OK except for the fact that she looked sickly and always complain about her back. So we told her to prioritize Elle Marie's clothes and just wash out clothes if she is well already.

The second day was different, just when I putted Elle to her regular afternoon nap, Yaya 07 came to me and cried aboout her back. So I massage her back with the chinese ointment that Sharon gave me. I told her to rest after lunch and prepare the dinner around 6pm. So, she is sleeping (or watching tv on the second floor) from 1:00-5:00p.m. Around 7:00p.m. she came to me again, this time complaining about her hands. She said they are shaking. So, I got my spa tub massage her hands and even applied my special exfoliating/relaxing foaming soap on her hands. Take note: I looked for the spa tub, cleaned it, heated water and arranged everything on one side of our dining room. I did everything while she was crying on the side and holding her hands. Day 3... day 4... the same thing that happened to day 2 started to be a regular routine for me. Aside from taking good care of my daughter, we hired a yaya to add to my load.

I wondered how come everytime she is about to wash the dishes or wash Elle's clothes, Yaya 07's everything aches but everytime we bring her to the grocery or the mall she is high spirited! all dressed up! all made up (she even tried to borrow mascara from my sister!!!)! I remember our first and only visit to SM department store, I wanted to see how she is with Elle Marie alone so I left Elle Marie with her and pretended to window shop and monitor them from a distance. I was VERY furious because I saw her tinker with the items on sale and did not even bother to look at what Elle Marie was doing!

This one really made my day! While me and my sister went around for Elle Marie's new clothes for school, we left a couple of newly purchased things with her to watch. I don't know what made her think that she can go window shopping while working! She left the plastic bags with Noy who was taking good care of Elle Marie! Just imagine my good spirited husband, together with three big plastic bags of clothes, one big baby bag running after Elle Marie! I scolded Yaya 07 but I also scolded Noy for letting her do it too him.

Yaya 07 stayed with us for almost two weeks. Noy agreed with me that she was becoming a burden to us instead of a help which is what hired her for. I know she needs money to support her family (who doesn't need money?) but, I'd rather do everything on my own instead of doing everything while she watches me!

And then... Yaya 08 came. She was recommended by our friend, Aiken. She is a cousin of her yaya so we thought her yaya is ok so this one must be ok too. I have been very particular about our yaya's age. I don't want a yaya who is older than me because of my previous experience with Yaya 01 but, I relaxed this pre-requisite and hired Yaya 08.

I know I am not the prettiest girl on earth (maybe in my subconciousness I am/ maybe 4 years ago I was to Noy) but to be politically correct Yaya 08 looks scary. She has a pointed nose and chin; no teeth; dark, very dry skinned; curly (buhaghag) hair. She looks like a true to life witch! (everybody who saw her made the same comment) All of Elle Marie's friends are afraid of her that is why I don't usually bring her with us to playdates or to Elle Marie's school. In fairness to her, she is very clean (except for the bad looking make up), sweet, always smiling, and ready to do anything you ask her to.

Yaya 08 already had a first warning from us when she failed to go back after an overnight day off because she was too drunk. Not coming back on the agreed time and day is a big no! no! to me and Noy. We already agreed that any yaya who would do it will automatically be fired. But since Yaya 08 is ok to us, we bended the policy and gave her a second chance. Yes, Yaya 08 is very ok to us. She met every need we had at home so I told Noy that maybe it is time that I seriously look for work. So, I tried to give Yaya 08 time alone with Elle Marie to bond.

But, this did not happen because the moment I leave Elle Marie with her all alone (e.g. I take a bath or go to our second floor) Elle Marie screams on top of her lungs! I never heard Elle Marie screamed like that before. It happened for almost seven consecutive days and Elle Marie started to have slight fever.

I remember it was Tues I left Elle Marie with her on the play area while I do my emails in the second floor. I heard a scream and really loud bangs on the door. It was Elle Marie crying while Yaya 08 looked from the bottom of the stairs. First question, why did she let Elle Marie go up the stairs on her own?! Second question, how can she be a mother to four kids and doesn't know how to appease my daughter?! Third question, doesn't she observe me and Elle Marie and take note of the things that Elle loves? These are the question I did not hesitate to ask her. I was frustrated because she has been with us for almost one month and still she couldn't stay with Elle Marie a single minute?!

Wednesday came, I wanted to take a bath on my own (without Elle Marie in the CR) so again I left Elle with her. Again, screaming! crying! everything! So I was forced to end my bath and took Elle Marie away from her! I told her that I was too frustrated with the fact that Elle Marie is getting sick because of her (I guess with the stress of being with her alone). I asked her what she will do with Elle Marie if I start working. She said, she will let her cry because for sure she will stop. I was very furious! How dare she do it to my daughter?!!! I walked out on her and brought Elle Marie to school.

Sharon was just telling me to get her maid after they leave for Singapore when I got a text from Noy that Yaya 08 is not used to being scolded especially by someone way younger than her and is asking permission to go home on Saturday. There goes Yaya 08. But before she left, she created a scene in our house. She talked to Noy crying as if I maltreated her. Told him stories about how I would shout and get sngry with her. When I confronted her, she told me "bakit mo naman kasi pinagpipilitan sa akin iyang anak mo e ayaw nga sa akin". This one REALLY pissed me off! I screamed "the reason why we are giving you a higher rate is because I plan to leave my daughter with you when I work! We can always have our clothes done in a laundry shop or hire a weekly labander or I can do it myself! I can cook for Noy! So, if Elle Marie doesn't like you, there is no need for you in this house!". Nahimasmasan siya...pero mas nahimasmasan ako now that I was able to narrate this experience. mabigat kasi.

I had single, married, very young, very old, mature I wonder what is the right formula for me and my yaya should be. Sharon's maid is 43 years old. I always see her in Sharon's place. She is single and very quiet. Do you think she is the one? Let us see... she will start August 15.

Long live Ice Age 3!!!

Yesterday, Elle Marie, Sharon, Shawn and I watched Ice Age 3, The Dawn of the Dinosaurs. Neither was it Elle Marie's first time to watch a big screen movie (the first time was "Madagascar 2) nor her first time to watch Ice Age (Bought her cds of Ice Age 1 and 2). However in preparation to this big activity, I made Elle Marie have early lunch and afternoon nap!

Elle Marie wanted to bring her stuff toy Sid and Dolly but since there will be just the two of us, I made her decide which of the two to bring. She chose Dolly:-) While waiting for the screening, Elle Marie, Dolly and I walked hand in hand, singing "where o where is shadow" and "ABC". People were looking at us because aside from our loud singing, Elle Marie and I were both wearing red stripe shirts and mini denim skirts! Hahaha feels like old Singapore days again!!!

This must be one of my happiest afternoon in my entire life... If i could only capture this afternoon in a video cam and watch it over and over and over again, I would. I am so happy with how Elle Marie showcased her vocabularies and voice!!! I was so overwhelmed that I almost cried if not for the thought of how Sharon would react if she sees me crying... haha!

From the start to the end of the movie, Elle Marie was bubbly and participative! She screamed "lion! rroooaaarrr!" at the sight of Diego; she shouted "oh no! oh no!" to every "kindda" violent scenes; she called Manny "elephant"; she screamed "diiiiii noooo saur" at the sight of rudy and momma dino; she hugged me when the three baby dino leaked sid's face (so touching); she asked "what happened?" and Shawn explained to her what happened; she giggled, laughed, smiled and sang "Twinkle twinkle little stars" when the movie was about to end... these are the things that make me proud that I am a full-time mom now.

I love Ice Age 3!!!

Happy Birthday Max!!!

Max turned 2 yesterday. He had a simple celebration at home with Elle Marie and Lili. Max and Elle Marie were very excited because it has been a long time since they last saw and played long with Lili after she transferred to another school. (Elle Marie got to play with Lili once in awhile in the park and in their new place but Max never got to) These four are inseparable! They are so comfortable with each other that I could not remember an instance that they fought over something.

It was a simple celebration. Max blew the candles on his "bread talk" cake. We had pasta, chips, and juices. The important thing is that the kids were busy playing with each other...

I allotted our whole July just for the Lo's family. It will be their last month in the Philippines because they are going back to Singapore where they are originally from. I am scheduling playdates after playdates after playdates just to make sure that the kids get good and long memories of each other. Elle Marie likes Shawn and Max a lot! Shawn was like a big brother to her. I remember one playdate in Gymboree- Manila Polo Club, Shawn was giving her instructions and she followed everything he said! For sure, Elle Marie will miss the two beautiful Lo boys.

No need to mention but I will definitely miss Sharon. Since I became a full-time mom in July last year, Sharon and Jina has been my constant "buddies"; my source of encouragements and information about anything under the sun! There were times that I almost gave up but they were there to comfort me and give me "logical" solutions to my (at times) petty problems.

I guess this is life's way of telling me that hey! Ella! wake up... everybody is going "global"! It's good to have new multi-national friends, you will learn a lot from them. Yes sooner or later, they will have to leave the Philippines just like your other good friends who headed to "greener pasture". BUT no need to despair, because of "globalization" it is now very affordable to travel everywhere (I am talking about Asia)! Just look forward to visiting Sharon this October in Singapore:-)

Happy birthday Max! See you in October!!!

We survived the fire drill in TU!!!

This is ALPAP Building that houses TU-Makati. Alpap is a 7-storey old building along Leviste St in Salcedo Village. It also houses Starbucks, Metrobank and Freudnick Neumann Foundation among the others. This is the building where Elle Marie and I had the "fire drill" this morning.

Blame it on the epidural again but I totally forgot about the "Fire drill" in TU today! I came unprepared. I made Elle Marie wear her white keds rubber shoes which is very difficult to wear with all the shoe laces!; I didn't have breakfast hence, i didn't have the energy to carry Elle Marie from the 7th floor down to the ground floor; I wore my maong mini skirt! (which i always does); I wore my white slippers that were too big and loose for me... Good thing, Teacher Gabby reminded me that the alarm will ring in few minutes to signal the fire drill! Or else... Hahaha

So, the bell rang and off I went to the Yellow room to get Elle Marie. I decided to leave my bag in the waiting area because it was too heavy for me (I brought my laptop with me today) I bet if it was the actual thing, I wouldn't even bother to bring my bag as long as I have Elle Marie with me!!! Funny, while on our way out of TU Elle Marie picked up a red ball and she played with it the whole time we are going down the stair! There were a couple of times that I had to carry Elle Marie but the whole time she walked and held hands with me; and at times would let go from my hand and walk on her own!

Whew! Congratulations to me and Elle Marie for surviving the "fire drill" this morning!

A date to remember at Cafe Mediterranean, Powerplant

Last night, Noy treated us for dinner at Cafe Mediterranean at the Concourse of Powerplant, Rockwell. It is not our typical dinner because we usually go to either KFC or Kenny Rogers or McDonalds but it was a welcome change.

Cafe Mediterranean specializes in italian, greek and european cuisines. It has a casual yet refined dining set up that is intimidating at first but "very homey" when you are already inside. Elle Marie and I are pasta-lovers so we immediately went for their "Pesto Basilico". It is basil pesto with broccoli, grilled red peppers, marble potatoes on penne. The waiter informed us that it will be available after 15 mins. but was able to make it available in 10 mins! Great news for parents like us who has a toddler waiting for her dinner.Elle Marie's first fork of Pesto Basilico was like magic! She instantly fell in love with it! She even ate the red pepper!!! Good thing I already mastered the art of scavenging through my daughter's leftovers and understood why my daughter devoured every pasta on the plate! Hahaha I was honestly kindda "bitin" with what I had so I told Noy we had to come back!

Noy had their "Chicken Gyro Plates on regular Pita". It looks mouth watering good! The chicken looks very heavy and I agree, the secret to all the cuisine in this Cafe is the sauce. It is magic.!Here is "Hi Five" to Cafe Mediterranean for the "must not forget" dinner with Fafa Noy and Elle Marie! We are surely coming back soon...

Elle Marie loves Gymboree-Manila Polo Club because...

We keep on going back to Gymboree-Manila Polo Club because Elle Marie loves it very much... She loves the...

Elle Marie loves going to Toddlers Unlimited because...

Elle Marie loves going to Toddlers Unlimited because...

H1N1 vs Impetigo Contagiosa

Everyone is going gaga over H1N1 but I don't, I have Impetigo Contagiosa to treat!

Last June 11, I went to TU for the annual parents orientation. The first thing that the teachers asked me was "do you have a load in DLSU?, What are you they doing about H1N1?". From that moment on, I know H1N1 will be part of the orientation agenda.

Indeed it was. When Teacher Gabby started to discuss what they are doing for H1N1 prevention, all ears where on her. The silence turned into murmurs; murmurs turned into questions; and questions turned into votes... They wanted the kids as young as 1 1/2 to wash their hands with sanitizers upon entrance to TU and checked for body temperature. A 27.5c is automatic "go home". This is applicable to yayas as well. Fine with me. They wanted kids with traveling parents to self-quarantine for 10 days. Fine with me, but a number of parents complained that they shouldn't have enrolled their kids if that's the case. They travel very often that their kids might end up "self-quarantining" the whole school year! Funny, but it's true.

All the fuss for H1N1... Doctors are saying that H1N1 was blown out of proportion, ordinary flu or dengue can be as much deadlier nowadays because of all the raining. I wonder, there is just too much media hype on H1N1... could this be a part of a grand conspiracy to hide the "CON ASS" move in the lower house of the House of the Representatives?! (I don't want to go into that)

Anyways, I really don't care about H1N1. My heart and brain are overwhelmed with the "Impetigo Contagiosa" that infected my daughter's beautiful, fine, long neck! It started as "bungang araw" which i treated with Curash, then J&J cornstarch powder, then Petroleum Jelly. Elle Marie scratched it, left a tinnie winnie wound that turned into red, swelling-like, peeling-off big wound that is slowly spreading on her neck. Worse, we cannot contact her pedia for consultation! So, we called her ninang doctor for advise and she told us to give her Elica. After a few days, the wound is getting bigger and bigger. Every time we go out to the mall, people would look at her as if she has "ketong"... I just could not take it. I prayed hard to God to free Elle Marie with that infection and give it to me! It is just not fair for her to have it!

Good thing we remembered that Elle Marie has a Tita Dematologist so we called her for advise. At first she thought it was "Intertrigo" and gave us 3 creams to put on her neck but they didn't work! So, we went to their house in Cavite for a better physical examination and as soon as she saw Elle Marie, she said it is "Impetigo Contagiosa" and gave us another set of oral-medicines.

Impetigo Contagiosa I researched in the net, is an infectious superficial infection of the skin due to streptococci, staphylococci, or both. It is characterized by superficial vesicular lesions that later become pustular and then crusted, the resultant crusts being often honey-coloured. Lesions predominantly occur on the face, arms and legs of infants and children.

The treatment of this affection is exceedingly simple; all that is necessary is to remove the crusts and to apply a mercurial or a sulphur ointment, two or three times a day, and in a short time all traces of the affeection wil1 disappear, except the macules, which mark the previous site of the eruption. These gradually fade, and ultimately the skin assumes a normal aspect, without mark or scar.

Thank God for Ninang Dea and Tita Marie, Elle Marie is slowly recovering. Yes, TU accepted her in class. They should because we have a medical certificate from Tita Marie saying that she is fit to go to class! But, I cannot do anything with the "stares" that the yayas in TU have been giving Elle Marie. I know that they are just concerned with their charges health. It is ok, I would want my yaya to do the same thing for Elle Marie!

P.S. for more information on Impetigo Contagiosa please see:

http://www.logoi.com/health/skin_diseases/impetigo_contagiosa.html

http://www.dermis.net/dermisroot/en/27004/diagnose.htm

http://chestofbooks.com/health/materia-medica-drugs/Treatise-On-Materia-Medica-Therapeutics-Skin/Impetigo-Contagiosa-Porrigo.html

To a loyal friend, a good companion, my baby, my first born...

I know I should but, I don’t know why I am not crying. I just lost a loyal friend, a good companion, my baby, my first born. Yet, all I can do is to stare blankly. I don’t want to hear the details of how and when. I don’t even want to look at Noy.

My heart says that I should explode and get angry. My heart says that silence is bad for me and that I should scream, swear, and shout as loudly as I want. My heart says I should cry but I don’t know why I am not crying.

Maybe, I am like this because I know it was my fault. I should have been there for her. I should have visited her last weekend, I should have taken her back to her family in Iloilo last Holy Week, I should have gotten her back to Makati so she can play with Elle. But, I was too selfish. I was only thinking of myself, my convenience, my own happiness.

I love Vampy ever since I first laid eyes on her in Iloilo. Her white fluffy fur, bright round eyes, cute and sweet eyes just captured my heart. There were two of them but, I chose her to be with me in Manila.

Vampy was so selfless. She loved me so much that she would pamper me with everything. She would allow me to put hair clips on her fur, pink ribbons and necklaces on her neck, wear dresses just to make me smile. Once, I was too excited with the new puppy nail-cutter I just bought for her and immediately started cutting her nails. She never complained! Even though I was unknowingly cutting her fingers already!!!

Vampy was there to me through thick and thin, through rich and poor. I remember she stayed with me the night I broke up with my former boyfriend. She never left my side. Nobody at home knew about the break up for one week and she stayed with me, just listening to my cries and comforting me through her hugs.

After that heartache, I told myself that should I find a new partner in life he should

love not just me but Vampy as well. Good that I found Noy. Noy loves Vampy so much and Vampy loves him so much. I never found a man who would literally want to bring my Vampy everywhere we go!

However, I had to give up Vampy because I was having Elle Marie. Too bad that the very thing made me bring her with me to Manila is actually the reason why she had to leave our house in Makati. Her white fluffy fur is bad for Elle Marie because she might develop asthma if she inhales it. I had no option but to bring Vampy to Pangasinan. That time, I told myself that Pangasinan is nearer than Iloilo. At least I can see her everytime we go to Pangasinan.

I told Noy once when they almost lost Vampy in Pangasinan, “Noy, I will never forgive you if something bad happens to Vampy here. Vampy and I have gone a long way… longer than our way!”. I could not believe that I was able to say that to my husband. Maybe that time I was too angry that I almost lost Vampy and he had the guts to still crack a joke (how insensitive, he said that every time I go to Pangasinan, Vampy should hide so that I will walk miles away and conquer the heat to look for her)

My friends warned me against having a pet. They said it’s a big responsibility and my pet will definitely break my heart if she leaves me. I know it will hurt but I didn’t know that it would feel this way. I don’t know if my heart is broken right now. All I know is that a part of me is missing and I cannot do anything about it. So now, I stay hopeless, numb and blank. I couldn’t bring myself to cry. I couldn’t bring myself to say the “g” word to Vampy. Maybe not now. I’ll see tomorrow.

Happy Birthday Tita Nene!!!

Last night we gave Tita Nene an advance birthday celebration because she is leaving for Iloilo tomorrow and will not be able to be with us on her real birthday, May 31. It was a simple celebration and was organized on the last minute. It just so happened that Tita Bebe is coming over and I planned to cook spaghetti for her. So I thought, why not celebrate Tita Nene's birthday and invited Lola in Roxas and Tito Anton.Lola in Roxas bought spaghetti sauce all the way from Quezon City, Tito Jun jun cooked sinigang na tilapya, I cooked spaghetti pasta and bought stawberry ice cream from Taj. After dinner, we gathered around Tita Nene's room and watched "Strangers" and "Twilight" (again?!!!). We talked about Hayden Kho, Katrina, and Tita Nene's friend from London who is coming this June. It was a long night... full of chikahan and bonding moments... I am happy that Tita Nene had a great time! Elle Marie loves Tita Nene. Every night she would go inside Tita Nene's room and watch Barney with her. I once told Tita Nene that should something happen to me, I want her to take good care of Elle Marie like her own daughter. I am just so lucky to have a sister like Nene... especially that we are leaving on the same roof. I feel safe and comforted every time I am down just to know that she's there for me... Happy birthday Tita Nene! Stay sexy!

Preparing for Junior Nursery Part 1: Elle Marie is officially back with TU

It is official, Elle Marie is back with Toddlers Unlimited, Inc. It's not as if she left TU but there was a time that Noy and I considered enrolling her in another school near our place. The travel time going to TU was just too taxing for Nonoy who is the only person who knows how to drive in our family. So we thought if we enroll Elle Marie in a nearer school, we don't have to take too much time of Noy from work.

We went to several pre-schools in San Antonio Village. We went to this Pre-school 01, the nearest school in our place. It is within walking distance as a matter of fact. A couple of smart parenting websites mentioned that this school is the most affordable school in the area considering that it is in Makati City. Indeed, it is affordable but don't accept toddlers below 3 years of age.

We went to Pre-school 02, just one tricycle ride from our place. Smart parenting websites and OUR pedia recommended this school because it was able to prepare their kids to big schools. Of course I wanted something like that for Elle as well but when we visited, I was disappointed. The place was so gloomy! The teachers looked depressed, the kids looked bored. They didn't have separate rooms per age group so the kids aging 2-5 (i think) were all together in one big place. I just don't know how they are able to hear and focus on what they are doing with all the noise and action around them.

We went to Pre-school 03, a home-based school recommended by one mom in one smart parenting website that I patronize. It's one tricycle ride from our place. It advocates "vertical education", where toddlers of all ages (2-5) are in just one class. I don't believe in "vertical education". I don't think it suits my daughter especially with her age and how much time she takes to warm up in a group. They scheduled us for a trial class but we never went.

We went to Pre-school 04, a school specializing in reading skills. We thought they could help Elle Marie with her speech. However, they seem not interested in us. We came and went without being entertained (there was a utility woman who received and explained what they are doing to us). So, we thought... we are also not interested in enrolling Elle Marie in their school.

We even did a 3-day trial class with Pre-school 05. This school is just a tricycle ride away from our place and one block away from Tita Nene's office. At first we were impressed with this school because of how their place look like. But, when the Finance Officer/acting OIC started talking as if she's a guidance counselor or an expert in toddler development... we were turned off. We gave up when I saw them starting their classes with the kids watching dvds!!! Yes, their tuition fee is VERY affordable compared to TU but we don't want to pay for a school to make Elle watch DVD when she can watch her dvd collection for one whole day at home! This school claims that they have the most affordable and convenient tuition set-up because you enroll every month for only P3000. If you decide not to enroll for a specific month, you may do so and re-enroll again anytime you wish.

Whew! In the end Elle Marie is back with TU, back with Teacher Liza in Little Joey class, back with Cyro, Lucas, Finn and Max (Lili might come in August after Max left) AND back in the yellow room... I can either learn how to drive or get a driver exclusive for Elle... but for now, Papa Noy is back in Jupiter St-Buendia Ave.-Tordesillas St-Legaspi St. route.

And... in preparation to June 15, Elle Marie and I went shopping this morning with Ate Pat! We bought these two lovely shoes from Landmark! They are having a mallwide sale and we got these two shoes for a REAL bargain!!! The Black High School Musical Shoes's original price was P1299 and we got it only for P300!!! The White, Lacy Minnie Mouse Shoes's original price was P899 and we got it only for P100!!! Yes! P100!!! God knows how happy Noy was when I told him about our treasure hunting we did in Landmark! He was worrying about how fast Elle grows that it looks like every month she has to change shoes but if it's just P100... she can change her shoes every week! (in exaggeration of course! i am not serious)

See you soon Ate Pat pat!!!

This Saturday, we will bring Elle Marie's Ate Patpat back home to Laguit, Bugallon, Pangasinan. Pat pat and her older sister, Harlene have been with us since May 12 which is almost two weeks. Since then, our house was never quiet. You would always hear her voice everywhere! She would ask me infinite questions that makes me feel glad Elle is not as talkative (in a good way)as her, or else my BP will shoot up answering her questions. She would smile, smile and smile... (no wonder Elle adores her so much) and make funny, innocent and many comments. On the other hand, Harlene has been good with housekeeping. I am amused by how she makes up our room every morning and how bravely she traveled on bus, with Pat from Pila, Laguna to Makati!

Noy got Patpat and Harlene from Pangasinan after he learned that our last helper left. He got them to stay with us until the school opening (which is next week). Harlene helps me with the household chores while Patpat plays with Elle. Noy wanted Harlene to stay with us permanently and even offered to take care of Patpat's schooling here in Makati. But, Harlene has job waiting in a diaper factory in Bulacan. If only we can get someone from Laguit to work for us, we are still willing to take care of Patpat's schooling here in Makati. We just need someone she knows who will bring and get her from school.

I like Patpat not only because Elle adores her but because she is nice and innocent. She is the 6th in her family of seven kids (soon to be eight). She is seven years old. Her mom works as a house helper in Fairview while her dad is a wood carver. Her mom is a sister of Nong Endring who takes care of the farm in Pangasinan. Nong Endring's family is already Noy's family. I don't know how our house will be like when Patpat is no longer with us. Of course, the new helper from Bacolod is coming next week. I will have somebody to help me with the house chores again. But a playmate for Elle is different. I know, I haven't been as fun as I should be every time I play with Elle. I know I am treating her like a 12 year old or even worse like a colleague at times. What can I do? God knows I am really trying my 100% to be a good mom, great playmate, and excellent teacher to Elle...

I guess, life is really like that... what matters most is that Elle still has us, her parents who loves her soooo much. Of course, she can still see Ate Patpat when we go to Pangasinan... it's just a 3 hour ride from Makati anyways.

It's my birthday Part 2: A Filipino lunch date to remember

It's my birthday today and I am having a Filipino lunch date with my friends Jina and Sharon at Masas, Greenbelt 2. My friend Jina is Thai while Sharon is Singaporean. They already introduced me to authentic Thai and Singaporean dishes and it is now my turn to showcase our very own Filipino dishes!!!

I love KFC Zinger but I would not classify myself as a spicy food lover. That is why hanging out with Jina and Sharon was a great challenge in the start. They are used to spicy food back in their home countries. Jina once brought us to Azu Thai restaurant along Pasay Road for an authentic Thai lunch. She even introduced us to the Thai chef which is the best in town. Sharon, on the other hand once cooked Laksa for lunch. It's like Singaporean version of Batchoy but really spicy. We once went to Circle, Shangri la Hotel for their lunch buffet. Both went for their own spicy dishes while I devour the pastries and Filipino dishes!

When Sharon asked me where I want to have an "all-mom" lunch date for my birthday, I said "in Masas". Masas has always been my favorite restaurant in Greenbelt 2. I don't know why but, I kept on bringing my friends there every time I am asked to choose a restaurant. I love their crispy pata, sinigang and pinakbet!!! I love their interior, I love their ambiance, I love their staff...

I ordered grilled pork and squid, pinakbet, sinabawang pla pla. Both Jina and I had jasmine rice while Sharon had garlic rice. I ordered green mango shake, sharon ordered Avocado shake, and Jina ordered mocha shake. At first I was nervous that they might not like what I ordered but after two hours of chikahan! we were all surprised with our clean plates!!! We ate everything!

I was more surprised when both got hold of the receipt and paid for our lunch! I was deeply touched by their gesture I really felt special. At first, I didn't know how to react. I am used to treating my friends out for dinner or lunch on my birthday and they give me gifts or just plain smile or greetings. Jina must have felt my discomfort and cracked a joke "Don't dare ask for a gift Ella! That's already our gift! Hahaha

God is so great! He showered me with soooo many friends. A few forgot to greet me today but it's ok I'm not also good in remembering birthday. What is important is that even if I don't get to see them always, I know I have a friend in them.

I am so grateful to God for giving me Jina and Sharon. Yes, they are my constant buddies lately because of Lili and Max but, they play an important role in my life as a full-time mom. They saved my sanity! Being a full-time mom is not an easy job but with them to share experiences, chikahan to the max while waiting for our kids in Toddlers... life was easier. I don’t know if I was able to survive the past few months of my life without them.

I love Sharon and Jina!!!

It's my birthday Part 1: Hi Five "fever" in Greenbelt 3

One, two, three, four... HI FIVE!!! It's my birthday today and to stress the point that i am a cool mom to Elle Marie...... I spent my afternoon chaperoning her to a "Hi Five" concert in Greenbelt 3! Yes, Elle Marie's all time favorite teen group is in town!

We were on our way to Gymboree when I saw the promotional banner of Hi Five along Ayala Avenue. I told Noy that we better go back and get more information about it. Good thing, Sharon texted me that she is in Rustan's supermarket so I requested her to get more information about the concert. The Hi Five will be in Ayala Malls for three days May 16-17 (in Glorietta, 18 (Greenbelt 3). They have 2pm, 4pm and 6pm concerts. We decided to go on the 18th because it's a Monday (we thought it will not be that crowded compared to watching it on a weekend), 4pm just after the kid's nap time.
Good thing I passed by the concert venue before proceeding to my lunch date with Jina and Sharon. I learned that in order for us to get a VIP pass (front row seat and a photo op with the Hi Five) we need to present P500 worth of receipt from any Ayala Mall store per kid... I am estimating that our lunch would cost around P1500 and since Masas is in Greenbelt 2, we can get 3 passes. The problem is... the passes are good until supply lasts with the long line for the pass there is no assurance. So!I rushed to the nearest PCX store in Greenbelt 3 to buy my "birthday gifts" to myself! A face powder and a lipstick which gave me two passes:-) So, I only need to worry about two more passes!
At exactly 3:30p.m., we finished our lunch. Jina and Sharon immediately went home to fetch Lili and Max while I get Elle Marie from Noy in Greenbelt 1, exchange our receipt for passes (3 more passes!!!) and reserve seats for our group. While waiting for Lili and Max, I saw Trixie, Lucas' mom!!! It turned out that Lucas and Tyler also adores Hi Five!!! So... there's Elle Marie, Lili, Max and Lucas!!!

Too bad, 4:00p.m. is Elle Marie's nap time that is why she was a little sleepy at first. But, as soon as she heard the very familiar... One, Two, Three, Four... Hi Five!!! She was up and dancing (a bit)! The whole time she was looking at the big screen on the left side of the stage. I think she is trying to discern how come this Hi Five looks different! (turns out we are watching the Hi Five that they use for promotion) She was trying to look for Kathleen, Charlie, Tim, Nathan and Kelly.
After the concert we waited for the photo op. Funny! Elle Marie fell asleep just when it was our turn for the photo op!!! Still, we went with it. I requested Tim to carry her and they all pretended that they are also sleeping!!! (first photo).

Whew!!! what a great way to celebrate my birthday!!! with my daughter... with Hi Five!!! hahaha

It was A Fun, Fun Sunny Day at Fun Ranch!!!

It was another fun, fun, sunny day! The gang, Elle Marie, Max, Shawn and Lili went to Fun Ranch in Libis, Pasig. It is the only compound in Metro Manila that was created just for kids to play, eat, shop, relax, have party and be healthy. They have carousel, ferris wheel, bump cars, plane rides, activity centers, spa for kids, Bayo for Kids!, Big and Small, inflated balloons, and boat ride. Name it, as long as kids love it, they have it! Kids rule in Fun Ranch!Although it was a weekend, the place was not crowded (we were there as early as 10am!). The kids freely roamed around and had only one thing in mind but to enjoy! Elle especially liked the carousel! (I was not surprised, I think all the kids love the carousel) Good thing that we got her an "unlimited badge" so she was able to ride the carousel as many times as she wished! Funny, she almost fell asleep riding the horses (she kept on changing horses in the middle of the ride)!!! Hahahaha She also stayed long inside the Power Station where she won a pink ballpen after playing the rubber ducky machine. It was her first time to try out a game machine. We would always go to either Power Station or Time Zone and she usually just ride the carousel or animal rides but never tried playing with the game machines.
It was another fun, fun sunny day to spend with family and friends...