So what am I up to?

Been a long time

2012-01-27T19:27:00.000+08:00

Yeah it's been a long time. Lots of things happened. But I just want to share photos of my precious moments here on my blog. I am suffering from migraine as of this moment but I will try to endure my laptop's monitor light for a moment to post some pictures.

Ali will turn 1 soon!

2011-11-12T18:10:00.000+08:00

I have no more time to make invites. I don't even know when I could start making Ali's personalized lootbags. As much as possible, I wanted everything to have my own personal touch. But I doubt I could finish everything on time.I am so busy with work. I am literally a walking zombie. My birthday's near as well, no I am not busy about it or anything. I don't plan to go out that day. Oops, well maybe we will eat out. I'd rather save money for Ali's birthday, I'm getting old anyway. Aha, I'm turning 31 next week darn! Goodbye calendars! Oh yes! I was able to go to Divisoria, take note.. twice! I got burnt skin because of that. It doesn't matter anyway, it's all for my little eggy. I've spent almost all my 2 month salary buying all sorts of things needed. Again, everything for my one and only girl! I didn't even leave a single penny for my birthday.

I'm really tired. I've been sitting all day just to start Ali's invitations. I'm done with my first attempt anyway.

I hope I could blog again as soon as possible.

Thank you gimp for making my life easier.

Start anew!

2011-10-01T20:09:00.000+08:00

I have learned one important thing in life. That is to accept the fact that nothing in this world is permanent. I am 30 years old and I have not yet experienced life to the fullest. I wonder when that would be. I fully understand my purpose here, and it is to give importance to the essence of my existence. In life, there are ebbs and flows. It's up to you which current you would go after or chase.

IF, is one word sometimes people regret saying. When you reach the point wherein you can't take it anymore, the only thing you could say is "de novo". You wanted to go back and rectify awful situations. Alterations are extremely needed at times like this. It is so possible that not all the time, luck is by your side. But serendipity can or will lead you somewhere. Or you just need to leave it all up to fate.

But life can sometimes be harsh, or worse.. cruel. Gather your informative thoughts. Feed your inquiring mind. Ask help.

Look for something or someone that makes you really happy. Think of a thing or a person that can make you feel good and blessed! One or two things that would give a meaning to your life.

Don't push me

2011-07-04T06:33:00.001+08:00

So here I go again, trying to figure out what's gonna happen if I continue to assume that it's okay to be away from my kids to work as a call center agent. I have worked as a Nurse for 6 months. And this is my first time to work as a call center representative. To tell you frankly, when I was submitting my resume online I was not really thinking! I didn't even think that I needed preparation before I start to train or work. I have been with my kids from day one, and I understand how sad they would be If I started working. All of them can't sleep without me. Rye who's turning 9 this year won't be able to sleep without me or his Dada. Seo who kept asking me: "Who's gonna take care of me?" when he sees me dressing up for work , and Ali my 6 month old princess cries when she sees me dressing up and putting on my make up. How in the world can I disregard and ignore those feelings? Feelings that are so innocent and pristine!

It really pains me hearing these things from them. It's like a guilt feeling. And what am I suppose to do? For the past 3 weeks of being a call center representative, I learned the good and bad things. GOOD: Yes, it pays good, I'm on wave 1 which means there'll be lots of opportunities for us, friends. BAD: The longest sleep I had was 5 hours, I commute for an hour, I sleep inside the jeepney and most of the time lumalagpas ako sa dapat kong babaan, I take too much caffeine, and worst just to keep me awake.. I addeed nicotine into my system again, also I always get sick!

If only there's a suitable job for me that would entail a dayshift job or a less stress environment. I really need to be enlightened. I still want to give it a try, may be a month or two. Maybe then my system would adjust.

EOTD - Orange Black

2011-05-07T12:48:00.009+08:00

EOTD-Silver Black

2011-05-06T14:49:00.008+08:00

I'm inspired to doll myself up these days. Here's a simple step by step procedure on how to achieve this elegant eye make up.

1. Prime your eyes. I used my Victoria's Secret LipBalm as primer.

2. Apply the silver eyeshadow on 2/3 of your eyelid starting from the inner corner of your eyelid.

3. Create a V-shape on the outer corner of your lid using a black e/s.

4. Blend.

5. Apply eyeliner.Draw a line across the upper lid on the lash line (as close to your lashes as possible while still on the lid). This creates the desired illusion of having thicker lashes. Line the lower lids as well.

6. Fill in your brows.

7. Highlight your brow.
8. Curl your lashes and apply mascara.

And you're done.

Eye/Face Primer 2

2011-05-05T13:48:00.006+08:00

So guess what? I got addicted to face/eye primers and now I am making my own homemade primers. I continued searching for the one and only fab primer that would definitely suit me. So here's another test to prove its' worth.

I found this mixture, and it's basically 2 ingredients. Body butter and any Liquid Concealer or Foundation you have plus a container and toothpick.

Bath & Body Works Sensual Amber Body Butter

Revlon Age Defying Make Up with Botafirm SF 20

Normal Combination Skin 10 Sand Beige

1.Pour in some liquid foundation. It's advisable not too put too much. You might want to test it first if it truly works. And if it does, you can do another mixture again.

2. Add the same amount of body butter and mix with the use of a toothpick.

3.That's it and you're done.

Look how the homemade primer made my skin clearer and smoother. Photo was taken minutes after the primer application.

It also made my eyeshadow intense and it made my e/s application very easy.

But sad to say, 2 hours after there were creases and smudges.

It gave me a nice coverage for just 2 hours only. It did boost the vibrancy of my eyeshadow color but after 2 hours, the eyeshadow did not stay in place thus creating creases and smudges.

Lip Balm as Eye Primer

2011-05-04T18:27:00.002+08:00

I always encounter problems when I do my make up. I have oily eyelid creases that is why I am looking for a nice eyeshadow primer. I was even planning to buy expensive ones. I heard about Urban Decay Primer Potion, E.L.F. Mineral Eyeshadow Primer, Etude House Proof 10 Eyeshadow Primer and the likes. So I was doing my research and encountered cheap eye primers until I came across one blog wherein she mentioned about using her lip balm as her eyeshadow primer. I immediately looked for my lip balms and found one, but it was a minty lip balm! I wouldn't dare put it on my lids! I have 4 make up kits by the way, so it took me less than 30 minutes to finally laid my hands on my Victoria Secret Limeberry Double Balm Stick.

1. I applied a thin layer of Victoria Secret Limeberry Balm Stick over my lids to coat the skin evenly so as to prepare the surface for eyeshadow application. Blended the lip balm by patting the area using my fingertips.

2. I then did my foundation application. I used my Mac Studio Fix Foundation-NC40 using Essence of Beauty Finishing Brush.

3. I applied eyeshadow as usual.

4. Waited for a few minutes to check if it really works.

After 4 hours, no smudges. no oily creases. The eyeshadow did not settle in the creases, it didn't flake. My eyeshadow appeared fresh and I didn't do touch ups. I think I'm gonna settle for this one first. It sure does wonders to my oily lids. Some put eyeshadow right after the primer that why they say it feels heavy and sticky. My lip balm goes along very well with my Mac Foundation, it feels silky and light. I hope this works for you as well.

The Bargain Coffin

2011-05-04T09:56:00.005+08:00

When Daddy was still alive he kept mentioning about the details on how he wanted to be buried. He was reminding us everyday to look for a nice but cheap funeral service because we'll be availing twice the amount of an average price of a funeral service because he wanted to have 2 wakes, one here in Angeles City and another in Quezon City. I wonder how our Mom can survive this staggering funeral expenses. Not to mention all her expenses used in Dad's hospitalization that includes chemotheraphy, cobalt/linear sessions, monthly Zometa, hospital admissions, lab works, ctscans etc..

And to our surprise, Mom lost her job because her "alaga" for 8 years died already. But one day, Lolo Zaldy (Ima's cousin) came to visit Daddy and he was mentioning that he's gonna help us with the coffin, I don't know how or where..I didn't care. As long as there's someone whom I trust who is willing to give his ample time to extend his helping hands.

What I didn't know was one of our Titas, Tita Lina (Cordero side) owns a coffin factory in Sto.Tomas, Pampanga. She gave us a "kamag-anak" price, just imagine how cheap that was! Furthermore, Lolo Zaldy was the one who made the casket himself of course with the help of his team. It's a cost next to nothing coffin!

And to finally sum it up, we didn't need to look for funeral services here in Angeles City. Because Tito Ambet, Tita Lina's brother owns a funeral service in Tarlac. Heaven was surely helping us!

Introducing Solid Food

2011-05-04T08:33:00.001+08:00

Salina Ros is exactly 4 months and 22 days when I introduced her first solid food. I planned to delay giving her first bite since my kids have history of allergies (EJ's side), and experts say delaying solids longer than six months can be a good thing. At nearly 4 months, she displayed interest in food. It's just so hard for me to resist when she gives me that adorable plead, begging to spare her some whenever we eat. She showed clear signs that she's oh so ready to crunch and munch! And after giving her first dose, she wanted more!

Of course, I still intend to continue breastfeeding. It's the best gift I could give her! I believe that my purpose here on earth is to take responsibility for the health of my children hence, loving, protecting and guiding them is a promise I will keep all my life.

OnlineStore

2011-04-10T16:08:00.001+08:00

Please visit our online shop, SHAPED ONLINESTORE. You might like some of our stuffs there. Thanks!

When Daddy Died..

2011-03-22T16:12:00.006+08:00

ELISEO ARQUIZA CASIÑO

BORN: JUNE 14,1953

DIED: MARCH 17, 2011

TIME OF DEATH: 6:40 AM

We have been preparing ourselves physically, emotionally and spiritually for 2 years. No one knows the exact date and time our Dad will pass away. All we know is that we should all be prepared. We have seen how cruel Cancer is. It really made our Dad suffer until he died. He was in pain and all he could do was to cry for help. All of us were asking and begging God to take him away from us so he will not be in pain anymore. We can't afford to see our father suffer like that. Our Dad told everyone that he was ready to die. But one day, we heard him saying that he didn't want to. He was telling me that he wasn't ready yet and that he wanted to be with us longer. That was just about 2 or 3 days before he died. I told him that my sisters, our Mom and his brothers and sisters have already surrendered him to our Dear Lord. I told him not to worry about us anymore. After telling him that, his face was more at peace, maybe he was not worrying too much because I made sure that we will keep each other safe if he's already gone.

March 17, 2011

4:00 AM - I woke up early to list the things we will be needing in case the time comes that our Daddy is finally summoned by our Dear God. For the past 2-3 days his face exhibited that death is near. I made the list so I won't panic when that day comes, I never knew that this will be the day.

5:00 AM - I assisted Seo to the comfort room. I was staring at Daddy's diaphragm and shoulders to check if he was still breathing. He was sleeping soundly. He was occupying the dining room by the way, he didn't like the room where he was staying because it's not well ventilated so he asked us to transfer him to the dining area. We transformed the dining room into a hospital room complete with hospital bed, oxygen tank and medical supplies. I went upstairs again to continue writing down things to buy and prepare. The only part that we were all sure of was that there will be a 2-day wake here in Xevera Church and another 2 days in QC and he'll be buried in Manila Memorial Park, Holy Cross. That's what he wanted us to do.

6:00 AM - Rye and I went downstairs to prepare for his 8:00 exam. I then again checked if Daddy was still breathing. Yes, he was still breathing properly even without his oxygen. For the past 2-3 months, my Dad was almost 24-hour awake. I don't know the exact reason up to now why he was not sleeping. But I remember one time he was telling us that he didn't want to sleep because he was afraid he will not wake up anymore. We tried giving Nubain, Morphine, Valium, Promethazine..but nothing worked! Exaggerated, but really! All didn't work!

6:30 AM - I stepped out of the house to listen to my neighbors' stories. I was intrigued by their laughters.

6:35 AM - Jay, Dad's caregiver called me. He said " Ate! " His facial expression told me that there is something going on. I hurriedly went inside the house and saw him gasping for air. I sat beside him and held his hand. I thoroughly examined his breathing pattern, it's then that I told myself....it's time. I took his blood pressure and almost can't hear any thing. No I did not panic, I was fully aware what to do next. I have imagined that this would happen. I asked them to call Karla. When she saw Daddy was dying, she can't stop her tears anymore. I was touching and stroking his arms, legs and chest when he was on his last breath and while doing so I was telling him: " Dy, mahal na mahal ka namin, sorry sa mga kasalanan namin sayo.." over and over again. I continued holding my Dad's hand asking him if he could wait a little more. I was telling him: "Sandali na lang Dy parating na si Ate.. hintayin mo na si Ate.." I called my Ate right away. I was crying when I told her that our Daddy is dying. I told her to hurry for she might not be able to see Daddy alive. I told Ate to talk to Daddy over the phone, and she was telling him that she's on her way. She said: " Hintayin mo ako Dy! Parating na ako!" I called Mommy after that. I said: "Ma, eto na..." My tears kept falling down my cheeks. I was crying aloud. Mom was able to talk to Daddy. She told him: " Sige na Dad pahinga ka na.. I love you Dad..mahal na mahal kita.. " I couldn't fight back the tears because I can hear that my Mom was crying hard. And while he was listening to my Mom's voice, he died..

Daddy died at exactly 6:40 in the morning. I was glad that I was able to hold his hand and even talk to him before he passed away.

We would like to thank everyone who sent their sincere condolences to our family. Thank you for sharing your life as a friend, brother, sister with our father.

And to you Daddy, don't worry about us anymore. We promise to keep each other safe. Be happy with all the angels there. You've been a great father to us. Thank you for the love, care, guidance and support you have bestowed upon us. You are now with our Dear Jesus, that's why we are all happy. I am sorry for the wrong things I have done to you and to Mom and sorry if I offended you in any way. See you then... Guide us specially your grandchildren from above. We are blessed to have you as our Dad. We know you're now in the safest place with our Creator. Be happy. We love you!

Breastfeeding Advocate

2011-03-11T12:28:00.000+08:00

I am a breastfeeding advocate. I am exclusively breastfeeding Ali for 3 months now. I have always believed in the benefits and wonders of breastmilk. Research shows that formula fed babies gain more weight than babies who are breastfed. Salina Ros is an exemption I suppose, since she's a tubby roly-poly princess. When you say exclusively breastfeeding, it means nothing but breastmilk (no water, liquids, infant formula or food). I enjoy every minute of this God's precious gift to us women. I am a work-at-home-mom, I can breastfeed Ali anytime she wants and can transact business with my clients at the same time. Check out these breastmilk benefits!

I seldom use my breastpump now because most of the time I am home. I only go out of the house if I need to buy medical supplies for my Dad or if I want to escape from stress at home then I'll go shopping with Seo. My Mom bought this Evenflo Comfort Select Performance Automatic Cyling Breastpump for $41.99. And I say, it's a big help. I could not make any comparison with any other automatic breastpump since I only used Manual Breastpumps with Rye and Seo before.

Product Features:

Automatic cycling simulates baby's suckling
Vacuum-control dial allows you to adjust suction pressure
Pump horn has full silicone cushion insert for increased comfort
Operates on either an AC adapter or 3 AA batteries
Compact, lightweight and discreet

I have learned how to use it, and it's been great for me. It works like a charm, it's genius! It's not frustating using this unlike with manual breastpump, it'll take you an hour before you pump 2 ounce of milk. Not to mention, manual pumps can leave your hands tired and sore. The only thing I don't like about it is the noise. I hope the manufacturer can do something about it so that future buyers can enjoy its optimum functions. Needless to say, I give this 4 stars! It's highly recommended.

Low-priced Eyeglass

2011-02-28T11:29:00.001+08:00

Eye Channel: Tara

It didn't take much of my time looking for a new eyeglass that would suit my budget. I get easily annoyed by my previous eyeglass because of its rim which Ej and I bought around 2 years ago that cost us thousands of Peso.There's always an issue whenever I wear it. And what happens at the end of the day, I tend to feel irked and miffed. Yesterday, we went to SM Clark to do a little shopping and let the kids have fun for a little bit without the intention of scouting or purchasing another eyeglass for me. As we were strolling along the corridors of the department store, I spotted racks of eyeglasses all of a sudden. I fervently ran towards them, and immediately caught sight of different kinds of frames. Ahem, my type of style. I probed for the one suitable for my oval-shaped face and finally kept an eye on this frame.

According to my researches: Almost any frame will complement an oval-shaped face. Experiment with the latest trends to see what styles look best.

Cost:

Eye Channel Eyeglass without eye grade - 200.00php

Ideal Vision (for the lens with my eye grade) - 300.00php

Total Amount: 500.00 for this trendy eyeglass.

*Ideal Vision and other eyeglass shops out there usually give keratometer test for free.

Globe GCash and Smart Money Cards

2011-02-26T09:22:00.007+08:00

What a way to get a customized atm card. I just stumbled upon this information one day when I was surfing the net, and it entirely caught my attention since I love love love having personalised items! For Globe Gcash users you can apply online here: https://www.gcashonline.net/gcashcard/ Pay only 100php , just make sure you have enough funds on your Gcash account. And for those who are not yet registered in Globe Gcash, please follow this link. It will give you a simple step by step procedure on how to register. After your registration online, your customized card will be delivered right at your doorstep via courier.

You can now have an easy access withdrawing funds anywhere, just like me!

And for Smart Money users, apply here to register. After registration, a customer service representative will call you to confirm your registration. She'll ask questions about your application including what type of ID you will present. A text message will be sent to give you details regarding your card's availablility.The downside of this is that you need to get the card at your nearest Smart Wireless Center.

Newborn - 2 Month Old Salina

2011-02-20T07:21:00.000+08:00

Newborn

1 month Old Ali

2 Month Old Ali

Get Paid for Reading Emails!

2011-02-09T07:33:00.006+08:00

Still Reading Commercial Emails For Free?

Receive Emails On Topics That Interests You

And Get Paid For It!

If you have access to your own email account, you

can get paid. Refer others and get paid up to two levels.

Hits4Pay is one of very few highest paying advertising

program in the industry.

Signup for free and receive $10 as a Free Reward:

http://hits4pay.com/members/index.cgi?vetchzi

Click Here

Get Paid to Blog

2011-02-08T08:25:00.003+08:00

Blogging has always been my passion since 2004. I wake up each morning wondering about a new topic I want to write. And sometimes I even dream about things I want to blog and the next thing I know I am blogging again. It is absolutely addictive.

After giving birth last December, I was on the fringe of discerning what to do with my life again. Should I go back to work in the hospital as a Nurse? No, I don't think so. Not until my Dad is around who's currently on his death bed now. Or should I continue selling clothes online? I came across ads pertaining to PTC or Paid To Click websites. I got interested with Clixsense Team Philippines who promises to give you downlines and guarantees to give earnings right away. It really caught my attention. With only $10.00 Investment, you get to be on the Team and have one (1) year Clixsense Premium Membership. I got so interested so without any hesitations, I quickly signed up. One of the responsibilities of being a member of the team is to refer your Friends, Family, Facebook Friends,or Anyone online to our Website. Once we have refferals, the admin would do all the talking. And what's also cool is that we are qualified to win prizes at our Referral Contests and Promos!

As I was posting ads to different websites to promote our Clixsense Team Philippines, I again stumbled upon a group of Mommies conversing about "get-paid-to-blog". It held my attention, again. Since I am determined to make money online, why not join other Mommies doing things we love to do at home. Not to mention making money at home. In the forum which I bumped into, there were lists of "Get-Paid-To-Blog" so Mommies can eaily access their websites. I briskly clicked the first link and had my first sign up as a paid blogger. They need to make sure that I own this blog and asked me to copy and paste this: "The eagle recovers around a mark!".Once it is published and viewable at my blog, I can go back to the site and claim the blog button. That easy.

And my journey as a Paid Blogger starts.

Get paid while reading articles!

2011-02-05T17:47:00.010+08:00

Do you like reading as much as I do? Start reading articles now! All you have to do is read and rate, that's it! You'll get informative information under your choice of interest and you'll get paid when you read and rate the articles. That easy. All you have to do is click the banner & sign up.

Join our Clixsense Team Philippines Now!

2011-02-05T12:55:00.011+08:00

Wala ka bang trabaho?

Need EXTRA CASH?

Frustrated ka na ba sa mga iba’t-ibang money-making scams?

Or gusto mong magkaroon ng TIME sa pamilya mo?

IF YES, PLEASE CONTINUE READING

↓

DITO:

HINDI mo kailangan ng sariling website.

HINDI mo kailangan magbenta ng kung anu-ano.

HINDI mo kailangan makipag-deal sa mga customers.

HINDI mo kailangan tumawag or kontakin ang sino man.

Dito PIPINDOT ka lang! Just CLICK, CLICK and CLICK. No hassles!

WORK IN YOUR OWN TIME! Feel free to click even at dawn. Be your own BOSS.

INTERESTED?

THEN JOIN OUR TEAM!

Clixsense Team Philippines
is the First and the Fastest Growing Clixsense Team
in the Philippines and is now pushing its reach to the World.
The Team was Officially Launched on August 15, 2010.

What is Clixsense?

CLIXSENSE is a US-based Online PTC Company.
It is one of the most POPULAR, OLDEST and TRUSTED
Online Income Opportunity website existing online since February 2007

$$YOU CAN EARN UPTO $$
$9,843 per year or $790 per month if you Join Clixsense Team Philippines

With only $10.00 OR PHP 500.00 Investment
for one (1) year Clixsense Premium Membership

BENEFITS IF YOU JOIN THE TEAM

1: You can Earn up to $9,843 every year
as Member of our team by the use of our Downline Spillover System.

2: Be Qualified to win PRIZES at our Referral Contests and Promos.

3: Earn Dollars Right After you Join Us.
Get back almost 50% of your investment right after joining the team.

4: Refer your Friends, Family, Facebook Friends,
or Anyone Online to our Website. We will do all the talking for you.
Just send your invites to us then you’re done.

5: Get tips from the Team Members on How to Earn More and
Get Referrals at Clixsense.

6: Make Friends with other Online Marketers and Learn More from them.
(Earning Strategies, Cashing out of Money and etc.)

7: 100% Support from the Team if there are problems at your
Clixsense Account (if there’s any). We have a Direct Communication
with the Clixsense Admin.

NOT YET CONVINCED?

CHECK OUT CLIXSENSE TEAM PHILIPPINES
Members' Payment Proofs

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Click here for ENGLISH-TAGALOG Ad:

http://clixsenseteamph.sulit.com.ph/

Click here for ENGLISH Ad:

www.clixsenseteam.com

CLICK HERE TO JOIN!

↓

REMINDER: IF YOU ARE ASKED WHO REFERRED YOU JUST TYPE: venice19

We are getting BIGGER by the minute! Everyone is welcome to join our Team!

Now is your chance to earn a Guaranteed Monthly Income at Home..
Grab this Opportunity Today!

Ali's Christening & Reception Dress

2011-01-21T16:46:00.001+08:00

Ali's Christening Preparations

2011-01-17T18:42:00.005+08:00

I am practicing my creativity again. I love doing these things to my children.

It's obvious that I'm really into DIY mode again. No I am not wasting time doing artworks or crafts. I just love doing them. Aside from hitting 2 birds with one stone: 1. It enhances my idle mind's creativity. 2.I get to save lots of Peso. And since I intend to buy Rye a new gadget, hmm yes.. nauto na naman ako ng anak ko, saving is a must.


For the candle, I just bought ribbons worth php6.50/yard. That's 4 yards x 6.50=26.00php

I went to SM to buy Ali's shoes. It's worth 199.00 at SM Department Store. My housemaid said she bought one for her granddaughter "sa halagang 50php" in the market. You might want to consider doing that as well if you're really in a "kuripot" mode. It's just for single use anyway.

Envelope bags for Ninongs worth 89.75 php each.

Bag organizers for Ninangs worth 99.75php each. This was my Top 1 Christmas wish and since no one ever bothered to put a smile on my lips, I decided to make myself happy by giving these to Ali's Ninangs. These might change their lifestyle too. And to pacify my lonely heart, I bought one for myself, a bigger one for only 129.75php.


Yes, it was my mission to hunt Post Christmas Sale and found these lovely matte picture frames for only 99.75. They're nice and they don't look cheap specially made for my girly kikay guests.

Salina's Christening Invites

2011-01-15T15:48:00.012+08:00

The Final Invitation

The Thank You Card

I wanted a Pink-Brown or Pink-Gray Theme.

I made these 2 as a draft, but I got mixed up with the date. I thought it was a Saturday, my bad.

I'm a Spoiled Brat, so what?!

2011-01-07T17:39:00.004+08:00

Infantino Style Rider

Evenflo Comfort Select Auto-Cycling Breastpump

You are the BEST Mom! Ang sarap talaga ma-spoil kahit may edad na ko. Konting lambing lang nandyan na agad after ilang days. I've been using the Evenflo Comfort Select Auto-Cycling Breastpump for weeks already. And I would say, it made my life easier! I'll try to make a review of this product if I have time. Haven't used the baby carrier though, pero muka namang magiging comfortable akong gamitin yun. So happy!

Thanks Mom! Alabyu!

My Beautiful Princess

2011-01-07T14:40:00.002+08:00

A Happy Labor

2011-01-01T15:41:00.009+08:00

So when I entered the Labor Room, I was welcomed by ate Luz, the midwife. She handed me my hospital gown and showed me where to change my clothes. Inside the comfort room, I was trying so hard locating the armhole of the hospital gown. The one responsible for producing the hospital gowns seems like he/she has never been a patient ever! I can tell all of them are free size-American size since the hospital caters to foreigners as well (You know how many Americans live around Angeles City). My whole 10-minute stay in the comfort room annoyed me.

When I carefully thought out and formed how to deal with it finally, I went out of the comfort room feeling a little bit irked but ate Luz's smile soothed my wrinkled face when she showed me where my hospital bed was. When I was lying comfortably and pleasantly on my bed, she then came back and attached me to the fetal heart monitor. This is a machine that will indicate your baby's heart rate and the frequency and duration of your contractions.

Did I tell you she was (well maybe she already gave birth) pregnant as well? I so admire her for attending to her patients' needs. Yes I felt there was a special treatment going on, although we weren't friends but she unconditionally bestowed her caring powers upon me. There are others who pass by, they come and go but ate Luz was the one who was really hands on to the patients. Dalawa lang naman kaming pasyente actually.

So when I was appeased and relaxed, she then told me it was time for another IE. Hmmm..talking about being fat dumb and happy! No I did not complain, but I was worried there was no progress in my dilation since I don't feel any contractions. I was expecting I'd still be 2-3 cm dilated. And then she gave me a GOOD NEWS again! I was 3-4 cm dilated. She then informed my OB via text/phone call (that's our routine) and she gave new orders to ate Luz.

Before 2 pm: I was hooked to 1L D5LRS x KVO. Joyce was asking me questions to fill up her info sheets while ate Luz was doing the IV insertion. In less than a minute I was successfully hooked to my IVF, and then minutes passed, she gave me Synto and Buscopan push. And so came the regular contractions.

Contractions were tolerable. Remember I was on bed rest for 2 weeks during my 8th month due to premature contractions? Pain is comparable, it only felt Braxton Hicks.

3-4pm: I was IE'd again. 4-5cm dilated. Still same tolerable contractions. She noted a +100 on my monitor, meaning it was a super strong contraction. She was looking at me, a bit amazed because my face shows apathy. I asked her: " Was I supposed to say ARAY KO with +100 ate?" Natawa na lang sya at nawindang. She said:"Ang lakas ng contractions mo tapos deadma ka lang". Ate Luz requested me to call her/shout her name in case I could not take the pain anymore so she'll give me nubain. I said ok. She even asked me if she should inform Auntie Grace (Anesthesiologist) about my possible epidural insertion. I asked her not to inform her anymore because I can still take the pain. And then she goes: "Baka hindi mo na kaya kase mamaya, kaya patawag ko na sana sya" And then I said: "Hindi ate, kaya ko to." I even asked her: Ate, yung katabi ko ilang cm na? She said: 1cm. And then I went: "Eh bakit umuungol na?" She said: "Eh kase kahapon pa nag le-labor yan" induced kase". So I asked again: "Sya ba magpapa epidural?" Sabi nya: "Hindi". So I ended the mini conversation with: "Patibayan na lang kami, palakasan kami ng sigaw".

4pm: Dr. Daphne came to check on me. She'll be having an Emergency CS (guess who) that's why she came. Well "the guess who" was the other patient beside me who was "laboring" for almost a day already. She asked how I was feeling and gave me some encouragement. She even mentioned how "matiisin" I was. She did check my contractions and said that it was good. So she asked ate Luz to prepare materials for rupturing my bag of water so I can have a continuous progressive labor.

Past 4: Hmmm.. I was having a 1 minute interval contractions.Eto na.. I called ate Luz to check if my husband is outside the labor room. I wanted to ask for a pamunas.. I was sweating big time because of my contractions. She informed me that EJ was in our hospital room, so sabi ko wag na. It was so thoughtful of her, she decreased the aircon's temperature and even gave me tissue to wipe my sweat off. I said thanks.

She did another IE and I was 5-6cm already.

4:30pm: I called her name. "Ate, palagay na ng nubain." She gave the half amp nubain through IV push. Aantukin ka nyan ha. I said ok. I was feeling groggy minutes after. But when my contractions strike, I'd still feel the pain. Nubain helped a little. Sad to say hindi nya ko napabagsak. Sa madaling salita, hindi ako nakatulog. Ang nakakatuwa kase sakin, sobra kong tinitiis yung pain. I was comparing my dad's pain sa pain na nararamdaman ko. I said to myself that I can surpass this extreme labor pain kase si Daddy kinakaya nya yung pain nya. And just to inform you metastasize tumor/cancer cells to the bone is the most excruciating pain amongst all other pain na alam natin. So kahit na gatiting wala akong reklamo. That's why everybody at the Labor Room was asking me ba't hindi pa ako sumisigaw. I always tell them: "Kase kaya ko pa" Ang galing ng pampalakas ng loob ko. I was just picturing my dad's face whenever he's having his pain, and somewhat nale-lessen ang pain na nararamdaman ko. It was also a good thing that I have already calmed myself days before pa lang. Si-net ko na ang isip ko na once masakit na msakit na ang paglelabor ko eto ang gagawin at iisipin ko. I even did some acupressure while having labor pains. I believe it helped. She told me na tawagin sya pag hindi ko na kaya dahil may ibang gamot daw na ibibigay si Dr.Canivel.

5pm: I was groggy for how many minutes only so I asked for the other half of the nubain. She said 5:30 pa ang next dose mo.The pain then was now unexplainable. Eto na yung pain na iikot ang pwet mo sa sakit. Ate Luz came with another drug, Phenergan. She injected it IM on my right deltoid. Hindi pa rin ako nakatulog because the pain was so intense already. The contractions were every minute. She asked me to call her attention if I feel like pushing already.

5:10pm: I called her. "ate parang lalabas na sya". Although I was aware that I was only 5-6cm only but I was feeling that it was time to push. I asked her to do another IE. I felt na hindi nya na pinasok daliri nya dahil nakapa nya na agad ulo ni Ali. She was so shocked that she shouted for her dutymates' help so I can be transferred to the delivery room. When I was at the delivery room, everyone was in panic. I think they weren't expecting for me to deliver Ali right away because I was only 5-6 cm. I too, was waiting for 2-3 more hours to give birth to my baby girl. But I really had good contractions that's why ang bilis lang ng nangyaring labor.

I was transferred to another bed. I really wanted to push but some of the things needed aren't there yet so pinipigilan ko talaga. They were running around getting the stirrups, kelly pad etc. And I was so scared because I really felt pushing but no one's there sa may paanan ko. Buti na lang mabilis silang kumilos lahat, napikit lang ako sandali and andun na sila reading ready pati si Dr. Canivel, who was there kaagad (thank God for the Emergency CS). Kung hindi dahil sa E-CS na yun, resident ang nagpaanak sakin dahil sa bilis ng pangyayari.

5:20pm: Salina Ros came out sa isang irihan lang. Joyce was there shouting with me while taking photos of me and baby Ali. Parang pelikula. Chinicheer ka ng mga friends mo pag todo ang sakit ng tyan mo, mag b-blow din sila kasabay mo and titigil din ang pag hinga nila pag iire ka na.

Wow. Ang bilis. It was really a nice experience. Napaka sarap ng pagsisilang ko this time. And feeling ko I'd love to have another pregnancy kung ganito lang ang mangyayari ulit.

No I didn't know what happened next. Hindi ko na namalayang nag stay ako sa Recovery Room and na nai-transfer na pala ako sa room ko. I just woke up na magaang ang loob and hindi parang binugbog sa sakit. Ganun pla, pag ni-ready mo ang sarili mo physically and emotionally, mapapadali ang lahat. But of course, it is still case to case basis per patient. But I do hope that with this experience, and to readers who are pregnant and soon to deliver ang baby nila..na makatulong ang ginawa kong pag set ng "Positive Vibes" during labor.

I never knew it could be that easy. Thank you Lord for the strength You gave me.

Didn't know Labor could be that easy!

2010-12-20T12:40:00.008+08:00

3-4 cm

hooked at around 2 pm

with synto and buscopan

4-5 cm

So that was really fast! I didn't know having labor pains could be that ..ooohh GOOD! (with evil eyes).

DECEMBER 9, 2010: I was scheduled to have my weekly check-up. I missed 1 week check-up actually because, well I can't remember the reason. Oh! i had bleeding on the 4th of December by the way and didn't go to my OB's office since I was having irregular contractions. I was systematically and tirelessly timing my contractions every now and then, so when I get irregular ones, I don't get nervous right away. But I'm prepared physically and emotionally though.So at around 10 in the morning of December 9 EJ, Kuya Seo and Kuya Rye dropped me at Dra. Daphne's Clinic and then they were off to EJ's Clinic. That was our routine when I started to have my weekly check-up. We'll bring the kids with us to join me or their Dad at the clinics (whichever they prefer) drop me at AMC hospital then pick me up when I'm done. So that day, Seo and Rye went to their Dad. I went inside the clinic to ask if Dra. Daphne's inside already, the secretary said yes and informed me that I'll be her 3rd patient. So I went to look for a nice place to sit down and I saw one vacant seat na natatamaan ng bentilador. So I sat there. I was sitting and waiting for me to be called for about 15 minutes. Nothing peculiar though. I just felt a little strange and I felt I was perspiring a little bit although I was ventilated well by the fan. I just seem to be uneasy sitting there so I tried different sitting positions. I turned to my left and then right, sumandal, hindi sumandal. It felt different. I just told myself, no..hindi pa to matagal pa Christmas Day. So when it was my time to be called I greeted Dra with all smile!

I was already having my IE every week then, the last time she IE'd me my cervix was still closed. So she advised me to walk around.

I wasn't nervous or anything about being IE'd this time around. She was wearing her gloves when I told her "Give me good NEWS!" ( I was praying for 1-2 cm so I can give birth before Christmas) And then she said "Hmm Ok this is good news" as she was inserting her finger. So I expected wow, maybe I am 1 cm dilated. And then she said "Wait pasok ko lang another finger".. Her face brightened up! Wow 2-3 cm! As she continues to evaluate, she was saying: " In 2 days or a week pwede ka na nyan siguro" Then she pulled her fingers out and saw lots of blood. "Venice dumerecho ka na ng Sacred, nag le-labor ka na" I was like stunned and said: "OhhhKayyy...."Kung spot lang ito papayagan pa kitang umuwe kaso tignan mo ang dami nya na" and pointed to her floor dahil tumulo na sa sahig dugo ko.=p

So I said: "hindi pwedeng umuwe muna? may bisita ako. My Dad's sister Tita Nora came to visit him from Vigan pa. She strictly said: "No. Hindi pwede." And she really pointed out that I really should be heading straight to the hospital once I stepped out of her clinic.

I called EJ right off. And he was not answering. Maybe he was doing his patient. As I remember clearly he mentioned about an 11 am appointment with his patient. So I didn't not bother calling him. So I tried calling the clinic's land phone. Atcheng Yeng answered the phone but she could not hear me. And so I called Atcheng Yeng's cellphone and she was not answering either. I was a little uneasy since I was hiding my blood stain while walking. No I was not having contractions yet but the situation was giving me this feeling of agitation. I was really troubled and can't decide what to do first. I can't reach my husband and the only solution was to contact the clinic so the secretary will tell EJ to pick me up at the hospital.

And sad to say, the most appropriate solution did not help me at all.

So what do you think happened next?

Of course all problems needed solutions. I hired a tricycle to bring me to the dental clinic. Well, as close to the dental clinic.. (One way street) Oh poor me.. It's really a blessing I was not having painful contractions yet or else, anyone who goes near me.. nasungitan ko na. What's worse was I needed to walk another 500 meters from where the driver dropped me going to the clinic.

But while I was still inside the tricycle, I received text from EJ asking if I'm done with the check up and if he needed to pick me up already. So I informed him about the whole thing by texting back.

When I reached the clinic he asked what exactly happened back at my OB's clinic. So I told him everything. But I was the one who asked him to drop the kids first at home and get our ready-to-go bags first before going to the hospital. Matigas talaga ulo ko bakit ba?!

At home, I informed everyone that I'll be giving birth already. I told my Dad: "Dy, iire lang ako ha." Ate was also at home that day so I was not worried leaving our dad.

Around 1pm: We went straight to the admitting section to show my admitting orders by my OB, I was fetched by an ER nursing attendant to drop by the ER first to fill up some info sheets, nakipag chikahan at tawanan muna sa mga ER friends (keri lang, wala pa rin akong contractions) and then went straight to the labor room.

At the OR/DR/LR, I was welcomed again by my friends. Joyce, one of my closest kaututang-dila was on duty that day thank God! I would really need a support from a friend while having labor pains. She's a Nurse at the Nursery. Weeks before pa lang I asked her na to accompany me during my labor and samahan nya akong sumigaw ng bonggang bongga habang umiire and of course maging photographer na din. Salamat talaga at duty sya.

Another blog will be posted for the scene at the Labor Room.

My 3 Prenatal Books

2010-11-20T07:55:00.003+08:00

I have always kept them. And if time came that I needed to shower my brains with information about pregnancy, I read them as often as I want. I find the articles /guides very helpful throughout my pregnancy. I have lots of Maternal and Child Care books which I've used during my Nursing years back in College, but I prefer reading this. Simple and very direct.

The Best Thing Ever!

2010-11-13T16:46:00.003+08:00

Ima came here again in Pampanga to visit Dad. She'll be going back to New York this Saturday, so she took time to check on my Dad's condition first before leaving. When we were kids, she spoon-feeds us with our favorite rice, milk and banana. Dun pa lang solve na kaming magpipinsan. It's one of my fave meals, but the best breakfast meal for me up til now is gatas ng kalabaw, tuyo, asin and super init na kanin. Although we were born and raised in QC, we grew up like real Kapampangans. They speak to us in Kapampangan and they always cook Kapampangan foods. So when I migrated here in Angeles City which is my husband's hometown, I did some adjustments but it wasn't really hard since I understand the language.

So how about the hot chocolate? The last time I tasted Ima's home-made hot choco was when I was in elementary that was before she left for States.My family and relatives always spend Christmas Eve together in our Aunt's house. Walang Paskong hindi sya magluluto ng hot choco for us. Wala akong maalalang pagkain na luto nya na hindi ko nagustuhan. And this hot choco...uhhhhmmmmmm.. is just one of them. So this morning, she made this mouth watering hot choco for us. She asked my maids to prepare Hershey Cocoa, Lily's Peanut Butter and Gatas ng Kalabaw. uhm-uhm-uhm! Iba ka talaga Ima! You're the best! And even if you promised to be at my side when I give birth this Christmas, which will not happen... ok lang, basta lutuin mo lang lahat ng request ko.=P

Kuya Rye's Pink Eye

2010-11-13T07:32:00.005+08:00

Last Friday (Novemeber 5), when Rye went home from school, he mentioned about some of his classmates having Conjunctivitis/Pink eye or sore eyes for us Filipinos. The truth is, he's been asking me questions about it for days already. But I always tell him not to get near them or play with them for the mean time. It is contagious, touching an infected eye leaves drainage on your hand. If you touch your other eye or an object when you have drainage on your hand, you can spread the virus or bacteria. I don't know why he got excited when he mentioned it to me, it's like he and his other classmates are so wanting to get this awful disease. They're not aware what this thing would give to them. I've had this when I was a kid, and that was really a "terrible few days of my life". It was like having mumps which gives you an uncomfortable feeling for days!

So when he woke up on Saturday, his eyes were filled with greenish/whitish eyewash or eye wax as what my kids and I call it. So I told EJ to buy medicine so that the pain can be alleviated and it will surely help with the speed of recovery.

And to aide with the control of contamination, I collected and clustered of all my disinfectants from the cabinet.

Oh yes, we got all scared with Kuya's Pink Eye. EJ just finished drinking his antibiotics because he had nasal infection and half of his face got really swollen. Of course, I couldn't afford seeing Seo being infected as well for I am on a bedrest for 2 weeks. And I don't want myself being contaminated also, for Pete's sake.. I've been having a "circus-like pregnancy" since day 1! And not to mention, our Dad who's been buzzing every dawn so we can attend to his needs.

And so we are so ready for this! Thanks to these 3 great products!

Well guess what! Today's November 13, and his eye redness only eased off yesterday.EJ went to see his Adviser yesterday to asked for a special project. And she said that all missed quizzes are not to be included in the computation of his grades. Phew!

Kuya Seo is so ready!

2010-11-09T18:19:00.002+08:00

Kuya Seo has always been excited to see his little sister. When I was pregnant with Seo, his Kuya Rye was then 6 years old, showed almost the same enthusiasm. But with this pregnancy, OA na kung OA, but Seo's really demonstrating an overly display of love to her baby sister. He can't sleep without hugging my tummy. He's like a super adhesive tape. even if I just move a little, he'd go crazy looking for my tummy although he's been asleep soundly for hours already. And when he wakes up, he'd lift my shirt right away and and would say: "Good Morning Ali"! Kuya's awake already! and of course, magigising na rin ako sa tuwa.If he has free time meaning not doing anything (playing, watching tv, etc) he'd always talk to Ali. Magsusumbong dahil inaway sya ng Kuya nya or marami syang nakain or he enjoyed playing with his playmates and lots of other things. Some times, when he doesn't like to eat, I'd go: Ali, look at Kuya Seo..he doesn't like to eat. And walang sabi-sabi, nakakuha na sya ng kutsara at sinubo na pagkain nya. The funny thing is, even If I don't admit it, nagiging panakot na si Ali sa Kuya nya para kumain, or huwag maging malikot or agahan ang pagtulog and I like it! Gumagaang ang trabaho ko bilang Nanay. But of course there are also things na medyo hindi na kaaya-aya dahil sa love nya kay Ali. Like there was this time when I asked him about his favorite color (he'd always say red) but that time he said PINK! Lagi ko kasing binabanggit na girls love pink, so Ali would like pink as well. And because he loves Ali so much, he also likes pink. Seo is even vocal about sharing his toys. He said he'd share all his toys to Ali and not to his Kuya. So as early as now, I am giving inputs to him that would help him distinguish the difference of boys from girls. I always tell him: Your little sister might not like the toys you are playing because she's a girl.You want cars and soldiers and she likes Dolls and Princesses.

But the real deal will come right after I give birth. Rye was so so excited when Seo was still in my womb. He showed lots of love and affection towards his little brother. Pero.. nung naging makulit na si Seo ayan na. They always fight! As in almost everyday. Eto pa namang si Seo may pagka maldito, mana sakin. Even Dada nila hindi makaporma pag nagsalita na sya. At times when kids get crazy and they get mad at you, imbes na kagalitan mo you'd see yourself smiling instead because you find it cute when they do that! Well that happens to me and my husband ALWAYS! Tameme kami pag si Seo na ang bumanat.

Anyway, iba naman ang magiging situation since Ali is a girl. Hindi naman siguro darating ang panahon na magsusuntukan sila ni Seo. Well I hope not. =P Let's just wait and see. Sabi nga nila, lahat ng magkakasunod na magkapatid, laging magkaaway.

Concelebrated Mass for our Dad

2010-11-03T13:51:00.004+08:00

We know in our hearts that our Dad wanted this. To see his Priest/Bishop friends and have them offer a mass for him. Yes, they still stick together. Even after a long period of time. When my Dad was diagnosed with Lung Cancer Stage 4 in January 2009, his friends showed sympathy and expressed their support through prayers. My Mom on the other hand, was the one responsible for reaching and communicating their Priest/Bishop friends even those who are abroad. It's a good timing that they have their Annual Reconciliation last October. They really kept their promise to see my father and extended their love and support by a Concelebrated Mass just for him.

My sisters and I are truly thankful for this occasion. We thank you for encouraging our father to live his life to the fullest.

We'd also like to thank the church members here in Xevera, you've been a big big help for this event to be successful.

Salamat.Salamat.Salamat!

Salina Ros C. Yturralde

2010-10-20T14:31:00.029+08:00

At 14 weeks

At 25 weeks

It's a Girl!

Wow! The clock is ticking. Salina Ros and I are so ready this December. Mapa- before, after or during Christmas day pa yan, it's a-ok! Her name is so special to me, katulad ng pagka special ng taong pinagkuhanan ko ng name. I've had tough days discerning for her name since of course, sa wakas girl na ang baby and malamang-lamang this'll be my last pregnancy. We've had a baby name already actually, it was made during my pregnancy with Rye. Back then, we we're thinking of 1 boy name and 1 girl name just to be prepared. And kaming mag asawa as much as possible we wanted to name our children after our names or our parents' names or grand parents' names para naman talagang super special ang names nila.

For Rye's name: Briel Melvin: Briel = just remove letter B it'll become RIEL, meaning jumbled letters of Eril which is my husband's name. And add letter B again and it'll become Baby Eril. Melvin = EJ's Dad's name.

For Seo's name: Iseo Luis. Iseo = comes from Eliseo which is my Dad's name and Luis = both my Mom and mother-in-law's name, Maria Luisa.

And now for Ali's name: Take note: ALI pronounced as EY-LI. I wanted to give her a 3 letter word nick name para pare-pareho silang magkakapatid. Salina Ros = my Lola's name Rosalina.

Ima, my Lola deserves an appreciation like this. That's why I was so excited to tell her that I am naming my baby girl after her. Next to my Mom, sya na ang susunod na Reyna ng puso ko. Isa sya sa nagpalaki samin ng Ate ko. Although hindi kami magkakasama sa isang bubong noon, she made sure na tuwid ang pagpapalaki samin. She was so strict, lagi nya akong hinahabol ng palo sa kalsada kapag nakikipag laro ako ng text or jolens or syato or 10-20 sa katanghalian. I confess I was a bit, no let me re-phrase that I was really a naughty girl when I was younger. Sabi nga nilang lahat kaya kong palayasin lahat ng mga katulong namin sa sama ng ugali ko. Lumaki ako sa palo. From my Mom, Ima, and Tita Tess. Pag pinalo ang isa sa aming magpipinsan, damay lahat. Eh papano kami-kami rin ang magkakasama sa labas ng bahay.

At lumaki rin ako sa hilod. Bato na galing sa kung saang batis na pinagkuhanan ni Ima. Bakit ba naimbento yang hilod na yan. She wouldn't stop until reddish na ang skin mo. Sige hilod ang banat ng Lola ko! Ang masama pa, Tide bar ang ginagamit nya minsan, hindi man lang Perla!

Nakikipag agawan ako sa kanya magdikdik ng nga-nga nya. Palibhasa Kapampangan, walang isang araw na hindi ata ako nagdikdik nun. I was enjoying it naman, even up to now, niloloko ko sya na ipagdidikdik ko sya. But she said she already stopped chewing nga-nga. Ngaun pang andito na sya sa Pilipinas na kung saan kalat ang nga-nga sa palengke.

Yes she's now here in the Phil. Mga 5 months na rin siguro. After Tatay's death (my Lolo) she came back here. Aside sa nalalamigan sya sa New York, siguro ayaw nya rin masyadong ma-alala si Tatay. =P She was diagnosed with Colon Cancer years ago and praise God she's Cancer free now. We all thought na mauuna sya kay Tatay since si Tatay kelan lang na diagnose pero ang bilis mag deteriorate ng katawan.

Ima was thrilled when she heard that I'll be naming my daughter after her. Sabi nya, sana kaugali nya na mabait. =P Gusto ko sanang idagdag: mabait na super strikto.She also said that she's gonna take care of our little Ali.Never pa syang nakapag alaga ng apo sa tuhod because she was residing in New York for a very long time. Sabi ko, this is your chance.

Pulmonary Congestion

2010-10-17T19:48:00.002+08:00

Daddy complained of difficulty of breathing last October 9, he was again admitted for 3 days. Sabi nga ni Mommy, ang daddy nyo talaga ang hilig magpa confine sa may okasyon. Ima and Tita Tess came from QC to visit daddy and to celebrate my Mom's birthday on the day Daddy was admitted. So wala silang choice but to celebrate it sa hospital. To make the story short, Dr. Manalo saw Pulmonary Congestion. So sabi ko uwi na lang namin si Daddy, maghahanap/magrerent na lang kami ng tank for his oxygen..and so he agreed.

Ang mahal pala ng oxygen na yan, 4000 pesos for the tank deposit, 3500 for the regulator (nasal cannula included) and 480 pesos for the oxygen itself. And bawat refill, 480. Free delivery na naman.

Sa ngayon, he always complains of pain and weakness. Pero once na uminom na sya ng Oxycontin, mawawala agad ang pain. He's been like that for almost 2 months already. EJ bought him a buzzer a year ago in case he needs something at dawn. And he's been buzzing almost every night now. Malakas naman pandinig ko so once I hear him buzzing gigisingin ko si EJ para tumakbo sa baba and susunod ako after a minute. Hindi naman ako makakatayo bigla sa laki ng tyan ko at baka tumalembang ako sa hagdan at baka ako pa ang masugod sa ER.

So this is the situation everyday. On the 28th this month, dadating mga classmates nyang Priests & Bishops para ipagmisa sya dito sa Xevera. They have a reunion in Bataan ata but since Daddy obviously can't join them, ipag mimisa na lang daw nila sya. Buti na lang may isang good samaritan na nagbigay kay Daddy ng maliit na oxygen, madadala namin yun sa church, malamang lamang aatakihin ng DOB yun habang may misa.

And because I was again stressed and haggard, I got sick right after he was confined.

Due Date: December 25, 2010

Thanks to Umagang Kay Ganda and Unang Hirit

for the free Pregnancy Countdown.

Ay litong-lito!

2010-08-16T14:20:00.004+08:00

Obviously, I am not into blogging these past few weeks. I am not in the mood, yes. And maybe sa dinami-dami ng gusto kong iblog eg: my pregnancy, dad's condition et al.nalilito ako kung ano uunahin. I'll do updates na lang siguro sa lahat.

Dad's check up last month with Dr.Manalo went well. Dr.Cruz advised us to see Dr.Manalo dahil hindi nya nakita si Daddy the last time he was confined because he was attending a seminar in China. After minutes of questions and answers, he asked us if we still want to continue the treatment (radiation or another chemo for his eye mets) since he's been resistant with his other treatments and medications OR just to proceed with palliative treatment. He said that my Mom & Dad have to decide not us his children because this is a huge decision. When it comes to monetary support for his treatment, there won't be any problem since Mom can provide that most of the time. Monetary problem is out. The question here is whether my Dad would finally give up his treatment or he'd fight for his life even without them. Well that is a huge discernment. I was afraid that he'd think that stopping his treatments would mean ending his life little by little.

I was also concern of him dealing with decision making. Because at times, hindi na sya matino kausap. Maybe due to his brain mets. One time I asked him if he already took his Diabetes meds and he said no. I asked why he didn't take his maintenance drug, he said: Kayo lang naman ni ate (my elder sister) nagsasabing inumin ko yun eh. So i texted my sister and she said that my dad even agreed to his doctor that he'll take that medicine for life.Alam daw ni daddy na maintenance drug nya yun, pero ang dinahilan nya sakin kung bakit hindi nya iniinom yun kase daw kami lang ng ate ko ang nagpupumilit ipainom sa kanya ang gamot. Hay, nanonoxic na si daddy.So nung nahuli ko syang hindi iniinom yung gamot nya for more than a week already sabi ko inumin nya na, ang sagot ba naman sakin: ayoko kasi ang hirap hatiin! nakakaloka!

And there's this one time he asked me to print papers needed for the church this one particular Sunday, I gave all 10 pages to him and he counted them for at least 3 times. I even heard him say "10 pages". Minutes later came his ka-sister and he handed her the 10 pieces of papers. And then he goes: Paki bilang maigi yan ha, 7 pages yan! 7 pages! I was like..... oh-----kay!!! Hinayaan ko na lang. Pero napaisip ako bigla baka ako ang mali sa pag bilang haha!

At marami pa syang nakaka aliw moments na minsan dko mapigilan matawa, mainis at mapa isip. Mainis kase maraming beses, dakdak ako ng dakdak..ilang minuto na akong nagsasalita, and he was even staring at my face so I thought he was listening. And after kong chumika ng hundreds of minutes ang sasabihin nya: Ha? or Bakit? haha kung hindi lang ako buntis, tumambling na ako ng bonggang bongga!

So eto na nga nag usap na sila ni Mommy kung itutuloy pa ang treatment or go na kami sa palliative. They've been talking for almost an hour already (thanks to MagicJack) and when my Mom finally asked him what he wants, my Dad said: ewan ko titignan ko muna ang condition ko..so naguluhan Mommy ko because she thought that my Dad would give her answers already dahil napag isipan na ni Daddy kung anong gusto nya days before sila mag usap. Ayun na nga ba ang sinasabi ko, given that he already knew about his real condition (Dr already told him the real score) and to think na he even told me na he decided that he'd go palliative na, nung kausap nya na si Mommy iba iba na naman ang sinasabi nya. So when I talked to my Mom she said bat ganun Daddy mo akala ko ba magdedecide na kami ngaun. Then I talked to my Dad asking kung anong sinabi nyang decision kay Mommy, guess what: sinabi daw nya kay Mommy na palliative na lang ang gusto nya. I was listening to their conversation the whole time, and I swear yung sinabi sakin ni Mommy, yun din ang narinig ko. So I told my Dad (tinest ko yung memory nya) eh ba't sabi ni Mommy hindi ka pa daw nag decide at kelangan mo pang tignan ang condition mo. And hindi sya umimik. So I told myself, ah..dahil na to sa brain mets nya.

I don't know what to think anymore. Minsan kase parang bato nako. Parang nasanay na akong bigla ko na lang syang maririnig na umuungol and umiiyak and hindi na ako ganun natataranta. Or dahil lang ba to sa pagiging Nurse ko, na pag may pasyente akong katulad ni Daddy, bigay lang ng due meds tapos hintayin na lang mawala ang pain tapos lipat na sa kabilang patient. Or dahil masyado akong affected sa pregnancy kong to.

Pregnancy Updates

2010-06-14T10:34:00.009+08:00

Daddy was again admitted in the hospital complaining of pelvic pain and lower extremities numbness last May 31-June 2. Wala pa namang pasok si Karla so malaking tulong talaga sya na masamahan ako sa hospital. But kahit andun naman sya hindi pa rin nya kaya yung hands-on na tulong kay Daddy. She can assist him tuwing kakain, tatayo, mag ccr si daddy pero when it comes to kelangan nyang kausapin ang mga nurses, or there's a need to follow up something, or pag may kelangan gawin prior to a procedure.. hindi nya pa kaya. Pero she's a big help na rin talaga. Sa buong 2 araw na andun ako akyat baba ako sa hagdan. Eto kasing si Rye trip mag hagdan lagi, samantalang ang sarap sakyan ng elevator ng Sacred =). So go naman ako lagi.

It's really a good thing na Wednesday, na schedule mag clinic si Anti Bubut sa Sacred. And I need not to go to AUF pa para magpa check up. The last time EJ and I tried to go there, (napaka traffic! may ginagawa kasing tulay somewhere) inabot kami ng 1 hour, nasa tapat pa lang kami ng Sacred Heart! Eh it would only take us 5 minutes to go there on a normal-no traffic day. So syempre, ang buntis nag inhale exhale sa paper bag due to hyperventilation. Napaka init, napaka traffic, napaka-nakakainis na araw yun to have my check up. In the end, nagpauwi na lang ako sa asawa ko at sya nag clinic na lang. Nakaka irita!

At dahil nga sinamantala na namen na may sched si Anti sa Sacred sa araw na yun, pinuntahan ko yung secretary nya para ma inform syang andun nako. We were hesitant at first kase alam naming ako lang ang patient nya dun dahil nga bago pa yung hospital and hindi pa sya masyadong nagcclinic dun, pero kinapalan ko lang muka ko talaga kase sayang ang opportunity. Mas hindi nya naman gugustuhin yung puntahan nya ako sa ospital dahil naka confine ako dahil nahimatay ako sa daan.

So she came and we made chika ever. Mas matagal pa ang chika kesa sa check up. Eto kasing asawa ko maraming kinwento. I was IE'd and told me that I have low uterus na daw. And pinagbawalang wag masyadong maglakad, tumayo and bawal mag buhat. When I was pregnant with Seo naman, I had low lying placenta, and this time mismong uterus na ang mababa. Hindi naman super delikado pero pag ginawa ko yung mga pinagbabawal would lead to a more serious scenario. And I don't like that to happen.

When I was pregnant with Rye, hindi ako maselan, hindi nga ako nagsuka nung 1st tri.Wala nga akong reklamo nun..masyado. Nung kay Seo naman, grabe ang all day sickness ko. Pero nawala din ng mag second tri. And this pregnancy, pareho ng kay Seo OA and morning sickness ng first tri pero nawawala na rin ngaung 2nd tri.

Mabait naman akong patient. That won't be a problem. Ang mas inaalala ko lang ngaun is the stress! Gaya nga ng sabi ko FB: Ang ilap ng happiness!

What Can You Expect During the Final Stages of Lung Cancer

2010-06-14T10:17:00.003+08:00

It’s hard to ask the question, “What can I expect in the final stages of lung cancer?” I agonized before asking this question of my father’s oncologist. Yet many of us want some idea of what to expect at this stage of the journey for our loved one or for ourselves.

We are all different. Some people will have pain, some won’t. Some people will need oxygen to control shortness of breath; others may breathe comfortably on room air. Some people decline rapidly at the end of their journey with cancer, and others seem to live on despite all odds.

Just as physical symptoms in the final stages of lung cancer vary for different people, our loved one’s emotional response is hard to predict. Some people hold on, wanting to “fight” their cancer to the end. Others appear to accept death more readily. But despite our differences, there are common changes that occur for many people.

Physical Changes

Physical changes during the final stages of lung cancer can be related to the tumor in the lungs or the spread of the cancer to other parts of the body, or due to the terminal stages of cancer in general. By definition, the final stage of lung cancer implies that treatment options have been exhausted; a cure is not possible. But palliative treatments, treatments used to minimize symptoms or improve comfort, may still be used. Some common physical changes include:

Fluid build-up around the lungs
Fluid containing cancer cells (malignant pleural effusion) may build up in the space surrounding the lungs, resulting in shortness of breath. To improve breathing and make someone more comfortable, physicians often drain this fluid. If the fluid continues to build up, a procedure called pleurodesis may be recommended to prevent fluid from accumulating again.
Obstruction or bleeding from the large airways
With lung cancers that grow near the airways, spread of tumor into the airway can cause obstruction and bleeding. Doctors may recommend a procedure or radiation to decrease the obstruction or control bleeding.
Bone pain
Lung cancer frequently spreads to bones in the chest and spine. Pain medications can be used to control pain, but sometimes radiation therapy is also used to decrease pain or help prevent fractures.
Symptoms due to brain metastases
When lung cancer spreads to the brain, people may experience headaches, seizures, and other neurological symptoms like weakness or speech problems. Radiation therapy may be recommended to slow the growth of these tumors and ease symptoms.
Symptoms of terminal cancer
Profound fatigue is very common in the late stages of lung cancer. Weight loss is also almost universal, and it occurs even when people are eating a diet with adequate calories.

Emotional Changes

Beginning in the last few months before death, your loved one may begin to withdraw and appear less interested in visiting with family and friends. Activities that once excited him may no longer capture his interest. He may appear lost in thought, and as one woman I met remarked about her husband in the late stages of lung cancer, appear to “have one foot in the next world.” He may begin to sleep a lot and become irritable when fatigue and limitations interfere with his ability to care for himself as he did in the past. Having a support system and taking care of yourself is very important at this stage of the journey, both for your own well-being and so you can support your loved one with cancer as well as possible.

The Final Days

During the final days, your loved one may begin a phase known as “active dying.” Rather than an event in which the body simply turns off, researchers now believe that dying is an active process the body is designed to go through. Physical signs you may notice in these last days include:

The skin becomes cool as body temperature lowers; mottling (bluish, blotchy patches) occurs.
Eating and drinking stops, but there is no sense of hunger or thirst.
Breathing becomes irregular. Rapid, deep breaths may alternate with periods of very shallow breathing (Cheyne-stokes respirations). A gurgling sound (the death rattle) may occur due to build up of secretions in the back of the throat.
Perspiration increases, and the skin can feel wet and clammy.

Emotionally, your loved one may become agitated, picking at the sheets or clothing. Confusion and hallucinations are common, and those who are actively dying often speak of seeing loved ones who have gone before. In the last few days, she may have a surge of energy, sitting up if she has been bedridden, or eating a full meal after eating little for days. This can be heart wrenching if family members misinterpret this as a sign that their loved one is getting better. Most likely, it is the body’s way of allowing a dying person a last chance to say goodbye. As dying progresses, she will stop communicating and enter a deep sleep. Even if she does not appear to hear you or know you are present, continue to express your love. It is felt that hearing is one of the final senses to leave in the dying process.

The Death

As dying continues, your loved one will stop breathing and her heart will cease to beat. Some people claim they have known the moment their loved one left them; they have had a vision, or a physical sensation of their loved one departing. Others find comfort in staying near their loved one’s body as it becomes cooler, finding it easier to let go thereafter. If your loved one is dying at home, check with your hospice nurse or physician ahead of time to know what procedure you should follow after the death. In most cases, family is allowed to spend time mourning and saying goodbye to their loved one before the funeral home is called.

_Sources:

_{American Cancer Society. When Death Is Near. 05/06/09. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/MLT/content/MLT_5_1x_When_Death_Is_Approaching.asp?sitearea=MLT}

_{National Cancer Institute. End-of-Life Care: Questions and Answers. 10/30/02. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Support/end-of-life-care}

Loneliness

2010-05-21T10:37:00.005+08:00

They say na pag may nawala , may papalit. At pag naman may dumating, may babawiin. And I think it's happening to me right now. God blessed us with another baby pero binawi naman nya si Tatay. I hope God would allow my dad to live a little longer. Masyado nang dagok sa buhay ko kung 2 ang namatay in 1 year. Ima, Tatay's wife is also sick. Although she's cancer free now, hindi mo naman maiiwasan malungkot sya dahil namatay asawa nya. I don't want to entertain the thought na kukunin na rin sya ni Lord. I heard stories na sa sobrang kalungkutan, sumusunod din yung naiwang asawa sa namatay nyang asawa. Hindi malabong mangyari yun since si Ima, parang bumabalik na sa pagka bata.

I am stressed. So stressed. Gusto ko mang iwasan pero it keeps on coming. My Dad's left eye is now affected. The Ophthalmologist said it's a Retinal Detachment thus suggesting operation. Daddy said wag na, since mamatay din naman sya. Before he used to tell it as a joke, na mamatay din naman sya because hindi naman nya alam ang tunay nyang kalagayan. Pero ngaun, he knew about his Stage. Good thing hindi nya ako kinukulit kung ilang bwan na lang sya mabubuhay dahil hindi ko rin naman sya masasagot. Basta ang alam ko ngaun, some of his organs are now being affected by his Cancer. About 3 days ago, he told that his hips and legs felt numb. That he's not so comfortable sitting or even sleeping.

Sa dinami-dami ng iniisip ko ngaun, hindi ko alam kung ano uunahin kong problemahin. I pray that these things won't affect our baby. Nakakalungkot.

It's Starting..

2010-05-17T15:28:00.007+08:00

Treatment of Morning Sickness

There is no currently approved medication available for morning sickness, but the doctor may suggest trying these medication-based treatments if the methods mentioned are not helping:

antacids that are low in sodium and available over-the-counter

vitamin B6

sugar solution that is available over-the-counter

acupressure wristbands (used for seasickness)

antihistamine (prescribed by a doctor) only if the following concerns are evident: persistent vomiting, insufficient weight gain and signs of dehydration

Please talk to your doctor before taking any medication.

Self Care

There are many self care methods of alleviating the symptoms and minimizing the effects omorning sickness. These include:

Eat four to six small meals per day, instead of three heavy meals. An empty stomach and low blood sugar, resulting from long stretches between meals, can trigger nausea, as can eating too much at one meal.

Eat crackers or dry toast 20 to 30 minutes before getting up in the morning, while slightly propped up in bed. Bland foods such as crackers or pretzels may help at any time of day when you feel nauseated.

Minimize the intake of fluids with meals. Instead drink small amounts of fluids frequently between meals.

Eat a diet high in protein and complex carbohydrates, both of which fight nausea.

Drink plenty of fluids, especially if you are losing them through vomiting. If they are easier to get down than solids when your stomach is upset, use them to get your nutrients.

Herbal teas, fruit juices and popsicles are helpful in combating the nauseated feeling.

Take a prenatal vitamin supplement to compensate for nutrients missed through not eating.

Avoid the sight, smell, and taste of foods that make you queasy.

Eat before nausea strikes. Food will be easier to get down and may prevent an attack.

Eat in bed to avoid an empty stomach and to keep the blood sugar on an even keel.

Before you go to bed at night, have a snack that is high in protein and complex carbohydrates.

Get extra sleep and relaxation. Both emotional and physical fatigue can exacerbate morning sickness.

Greet the morning in slow motion – rushing tends to aggravate nausea.

Brush teeth with a toothpaste that does not increase the queasiness and rinse the mouth with a good rinser after each bout of vomiting, as well as after each meal. Not only will this keep the mouth fresh and reduce nausea, it will also decrease the risk of damage to teeth and gums that can occur when bacteria starts working on the regurgitated material in the mouth.

Minimize stress. Morning sickness is more common among women who are under a great deal of stress, either at work or home.

Dad's Defense Mechanism

2010-05-06T11:11:00.008+08:00

We..well I was expecting this. That daddy's cancer cells would spread eventually. I have foreseen his prognosis because I was exposed with this kind of disease. Last week daddy mentioned that he is starting to have blurred vision on his left eye. I sent a message to Dr. Manalo to inform him about daddy's situation. He replied by saying that he has to undergo brain ct scan with contrast. So the next day Ej brought him to Sacred Heart Medical Center to have his labs. Everything was within normal level, creatinine was good so it's okay to have his brain scanned. I asked him to have an early lunch so he can fast for 4-6 hours and have his procedure done at mid afternoon. He obediently obeyed. Wow! ( well, daddy and i have issues regarding this whole lung cancer thing) Anyway, I heard him telling his churchmate that he's going to have a brain ctscan. When I was eavesdropping I couldn't believe what he was trying to explain to this woman, that he is experiencing blurring of vision because it was related to the cobalt (radiation) that he had months ago. It was like he got it as an adverse effect or something. I have clearly explained to him the reason why he's having this brain scan. I have told him that his Doctor was thinking that maybe the cancer cells have already spread to his brain. I don't know why he keeps on forgetting things. Hindi ko alam kung defense mechanism nya yun, na i block ang brain nya whenever there's a bad news or hindi nya talaga ako naririnig. He kept telling me to bring him to an Ophthalmologist so he can have his eye checked, but I told him to follow his Attending Physician first maybe then he can refer him to another doctor if there's a need.

So again, as I was expecting they've seen a small dense focus on his right temporal lobe, and suggesting to have an MRI for further evaluation.

I don't want to think of what will happen next. Thinking about it tires me. I want to have an easy pregnancy so I don't want to stress myself out..

EJ & I are pregnant!

2010-04-21T18:22:00.008+08:00

Ej andI are pregnant again! I am 4 weeks and 6 days officially, If my computation is right. Haven't gone to Auntie Bubut to have my check up. It's really a blessing that they have put up a new clinic here in Xevera. Ej wouldn't be stressed out cancelling his patients' appointments anymore just to accompany me to have my Pre-natal check up. I asked my house helpers to go to Auntie Bubut's Clinic and ask for her clinic schedule. So I'll be having Saturday trips monthly then. I hope that this pregnancy won't give me sleeplessness nights just like when I was pregnant with Seo. I pray that there'll be no complications. Having headaches, cramps, backaches.. those I can take. Not just another complication. It doesn't matter if it's another boy, as long as our little one is healthy. I couldn't ask for more.

Yesterday at 5 in the morning I decided to pee. Yes it was a decision because you can not ask me to go downstairs that early. (There were rumors here that ghosts show around that time.) But I couldn't help but pee. So I took with me my pregnancy test and braised myself. I was like, sad when i was looking at it.. I was only seeing 1 line (the C line) and then there's another line showing up! Wow, I couldn't explain the feeling! I thanked God right away!

This life you have given us
is so tiny, fragile, and vulnerable,
safe in the womb of flesh and hope,
yet subject to danger and death.
O God of love, creator of life,
hear our prayer.
We want this baby so much.
Please grant this child of ours
a full term of nurture,
the joy and mystery of life,
and the blessing of your love.
Grant us the fulfillment of our dreams,
a baby to cherish and protect,
a child to teach and guide,
a blessing to our family.
Amen.

A Simple Graduation Make Up

2010-04-14T11:29:00.007+08:00

I made this simple graduation make up for my lil sister. Wala naman syang ibang choice dahil ako at ako lang ang mag mmake up sa kanya. Going to a Salon would cost around 800 and up. So ako na lang, pangarap ko din namang maging make up artist.
When I was younger, sa lahat ng mga beauty pageants ko 2 tao lang ang favorite kong mag make up sakin. Josh, my bestfriend who's in Disneyland HK now as a dancer.(He was a member of Whiplash & Hotlegs when he was here in the Philippines). And my beautiful Mom.
I was of course handled by other make up artists as well. Pero silang dalawa ang hiyang ko. Sabi ko nga, Josh can do my make up kahit nakapikit. Kabisado nya na face ko.

Dalawa lang naman ang laging request ni Karla every make up session. Una, humaba ang pilik mata nya.This was the first time I actually make use of a false eyelashes. Pangalawa, tumangos daw ilong nya.. E di pagbigyan, it was her day anyway. Kahit ako naman nung araw may mga special requests din.

See her Prom Make Up.

Confessions of a Jerky Girl

2010-04-12T09:46:00.006+08:00

I am a jumpy girl. I have been like this for the past years. I can't just blame drinking coffee for this. But I don't know where this being jittery came from. I have a phobia, I term it as Hulog-ophobia. I had 2 or 3 stitches on my face, just less than an inch below my right eye. It happened a day before my Dance Sport Competition, back when I was studying Doctor of Dental Medicine. When my family and I were about to sleep that night, I remember clearly how arrogant I was telling my Mom & Dad that they should watch me compete because I was the star dancer. No I wasn't really being arrogant-arrogant.. I was just like excited to inform them that I was so thrilled to compete and that they shouldn't miss it. Though we've seen other colleges practicing their routines, we'd sneak around not knowing that we're just silently killing ourselves. Wow, they're all great dancers! But I was pretty much confident back then.

Back to my Phobia. My parents agreed they'd go and see me perform. I was so happy that I promised myself I'll get one of the Trophies.. When I was tucking myself to sleep, I accidentally bumped my head on the bed cabinet. It wasn't just a small cabinet, it was a 5 ft tall cabinet. And on top of that, lies my 5x8 wooden picture frame. It was my Ms. Photogenic studio photo in Philippine Dental Student Association Pageant. The lower left corner of that wooden frame hit my face. I felt pain of course, I immediately covered my face and was shockingly afraid because I felt blood flowing down my arms. I was bleeding tremendously. I was rushed to the clinic of Tita Loudette. Just imagine what happened next.

The next day as I have said was my competition day. I wore my shades going to school. My eye was like punched by Manny Pacquiao. Almost 2/3 of my right face has hematoma. I told my Manager that I couldn't dance and that she can make use of the spare couple who knows my routine perfectly. She begged me to do it and that the make-up artist will do his best to cover up the hematoma and the stitch. In the end, I dance the night away with lots of glitters on my face. I went home bringing the Bronze Medal.

So why is it related to my being jerky all the time. My kids as you all know, both boys.. they play cars, balls, and any toy they could throw up in the air. Most of the time I cry when they hit my face. Upto now I am still scared that same thing would happen to me. Even a flying cotton would terrorize me. I hope I am just over-reacting but I'm not. Even my husband tells my kids not to throw things because I have this phobia, what's sad is I don't even know what it's called.

Now even small things can alarm me. I can't control my nervousness. And usually my boys cause this. One time I was sitting on my computer chair and Seo manipulated the chair control and I suddenly fell on the floor (well almost). My heart was really pounding fast. In the end, my son was crying because I shouted at him. We both ended up palpitating.

When I was pregnant with Rye and Seo na-ground ako sa kuryente. Nasabugan na rin ako ng oven when I was about to bake. Nasabugan na rin ako ng gas stove when I was about to cook. At ang malala nasabugan na din ako ng gulong ng bus. Take note, I was just about 5 ft away from the bus! Nabingi ako nun for how many days. Now, can't you see any reason bakit ako ganito? Can someone help me? I don't like this feeling. My kids will suffer because of me and I don't like that.

Choosing your baby's sex

2010-02-21T14:26:00.005+08:00

How to conceive a BABY GIRL.

Step 1
Have intercourse frequently from the time the woman's period ends until 2.5 to 3 days before ovulation. Do not have intercourse from 2.5 days before to 3 days after ovulation (if you do, you will increase your chances of conceiving a boy). Timing intercourse for a girl can be tricky because it relies on an estimate of future ovulation based on ovulation in past cycles. Since cycles can vary from month to month, there is a fair amount of uncertainty involved. (Predicting future ovulation based on past cycles assumes that you understand a woman's fertility cycle and are reasonably skilled in some fertility awareness method that allows you to pinpoint the time of ovulation. You should track at least two cycles before attempting to predict ovulation.)

Theoretical basis for how to conceive a girl: Girl sperm are more likely to survive in the woman's reproductive tract and be available to fertilize the egg when it is released from the ovary. Most of the boy sperm will have already died by the time the egg is released.
Step 2
Have intercourse with shallow penetration (i.e., the missionary position).

Theoretical basis for how to conceive a girl: The vaginal environment is more acidic as you move farther from the cervix toward the vaginal opening (the cervix is more alkaline relative to the vaginal opening, especially when bathed in fertile cervical fluid). The less hardy boy sperm are more likely to die on the way through the vaginal canal.
Step 3
The female partner should not have an orgasm. (The male partner definitely should!)

Theoretical basis for how to conceive a girl: Orgasm causes the vagina and reproductive tract to secrete alkaline substances that favor boy sperm. Rhythmic, muscular contractions favor boy sperm by propelling them more quickly through the reproductive tract.
Step 4
Increase the acidity of the woman's body by consuming foods that are said to make the body more acidic. A number of websites publish lists of foods that are purported to tip the body's pH balance toward alkalinity or acidity. Some researchers have also suggested that a diet that includes more calcium and magnesium, and less potassium and sodium, can increase the odds of conceiving a girl. A vinegar douche 15 minutes before intercourse may also increase the acidity of the vagina (vinegar douches can be home or commercially made). Consult your doctor before using a douche. See resources below for more information.

Theoretical basis for how to conceive a girl: An acidic environment is more likely to kill the boy sperm, leaving the hardy girl sperm available to fertilize the egg.

Choosing your baby's sex: the folklore

You're more likely to conceive a girl if...

• You have sex earlier on in your cycle, a few days before your day of ovulation. This is because female sperm are thought to be stronger and therefore last longer than male sperm, who will die off before reaching the egg

• your partner reaches orgasm before you

• you have sex frequently to lower your partner's sperm count, and so increase the chances of the female sperm reaching the egg first

• you keep penetration shallow

• you stop having unprotected sex four to five days before ovulation, to minimise the chances of the male sperm reaching the egg first

• your partner keeps his genitals warm by wearing close-fitting underwear and tight trousers (although this isn't likely to do his general fertility any good!)

• you suggested the love-making

• you make love in the afternoon

• you make love on even days of the month

• you put a wooden spoon under your bed and a pink ribbon under your pillow

• you drink plenty of milk and eat dairy products such as cheese and yoghurt, unsalted foods, rice, pasta, certain vegetables, mineral water, limited amounts of meat and potatoes, but avoid salt and any salty foods, wine and beer, fresh fruit, spinach, tomatoes and mushrooms, chocolate, coffee and tea.

Karla's Promenade

2010-02-21T12:44:00.010+08:00

Karla's JS Prom happened last Feb 19. Our Mom who's more excited than Karl, bought her this beautiful dress in New York, nagsayang pa sya ng pera pang door-to-door. Our Dad who's also thrilled with Karl's Prom asked Mommy to buy Camcorder so we can capture photos and videos. So what's my contribution to this event? Well, I did her hair & make-up. I have lots of fashion magazines again from New York (my Mom buys them all the time) so I was busy flipping pages looking for a sophisticated look for my baby sister. Eversince my Mom left to work in a luxury cruise then, & now in NY, I was the one in charge of Karla's prettification. Almost all school events (dance contest, graduation & other programs) I was the one held responsible for her enhancement.

So what's next for her this year? Well it's her graduation. As a big sister, I assist her in looking for a nice University where she can outstrip her being a Physical Therapist in the future. Dahil nasa poder ko sya (my Dad who can't fully support her due to his illness & my Mom who can't be physically present) I act not just a sister but as a Mom & Dad as well. Si Ate naman umuuwi dito sa Angeles once in a while and she gives her support to Karl even thru text.

Masarap ang feeling pag may ganitong event. When I was at her age, I really enjoyed my Highschool years. Masarap ang tumakas sa bahay, makipagkita sa mga kaibigan, ma inlove sa ganyang edad. Masarap maging pasaway. Kaya ako, I let her enjoy. Go lang basta ako, andito ako for guidance. Mas mahigpit pa nga si EJ kay Karla kesa sakin na tunay na kapatid.

Enjoy life. You can never go back to the days where you wanted to experience that again.

Ng Dahil kay Ondoy

2010-02-16T13:30:00.010+08:00

Ng dahil kay Ondoy, natagpuan ko ang mga larawang ito..Haha, hindi ko sinasadya na may mga ganyan akong kuha ng bata ako. At lalong hindi ko sadya na magpakuha ng ganyan dahil hindi ako aware na may ganyan akong picture nung bata pa ako. Malay-malay ko. And para lang masaya, i edited these photos para naman may remembrance ako. Masarap tumawa once in a while.

Celebrating V-Day

2010-02-16T10:52:00.006+08:00

I'm still sick, yes it's been 5 days already and parang hindi ako gumagaling. But at least no more fever. So what happened to our V-Date?, of course affected sya. My husband told me that he was planning to book one hotel room this Valentine, I was excited but said no right off since I'm not getting better.

Once in a while he surprises me by giving me flowers. And the most memorable one was on our first monthsary wherein he bought 12 dozens of roses and 1 pc of malaysian mums, especially arranged in Dangwa. The reason why I couldn't forget it was because I was carrying it the whole time while we were malling. And everyone was really looking! Of course I was having a good time! I felt I was really special! haha.. Although, wa-poise kase naman 5 kilo ata ang timbang nun!

And this year, he gave me another bouquet of roses and again malaysian mums my fave. I woke up early and shouted Happy Valentine so everyone can hear. I woke them up successfully thanks to my high-pitched voice and all of a sudden my sons and Ej were all gone. When I went downstairs, I was surprised to see them holding the bouquet and a card. Na guilty tuloy ako dahil I didn't prepare any gift for my husband because I was sick.

We continued to celebrate our day at the mall with the kids. Kahit may sakit, go sa mall to have fun. Seeing our children happy makes our valentine's day perfect.

A Jellyfish Story

2010-02-05T06:52:00.007+08:00

When we were having fun in Starfish Island, I heard my son all of a sudden shouting take note: SHIT!. The bad word immediately absorbed by my brain and I was terribly alarmed because I am not used to hearing him say such word. He said it thrice so I shouted "what's wrong" (because he was standing far away from me and I was trying to get some shade somewhere). He said he was grounded by something. I hurriedly went to where he was standing and looked at where he was pointing and saw a jellyfish. Rye told me that he touched the jellyfish and was stung. I asked him to stay away and not to touch any moving object.

That's the same day we're about to depart for Manila. When we arrived in our hotel after our prestigious island hopping, I sensed that there was something wrong with my son. He was having a fever! I asked Ej to look for our medicine kit (i am always ready) then gave Rye his Paracetamol.
When we arrived at the airport, Ej went over to the check in counter and asked if we can hand carry the larger bag (a little bit over to their hand carry bag size) because our son's having a little temperature so that we can proceed going home right off and not wait for the baggage any longer.

This girl overheard what my husband said and instructed the one who was assisting us to hold our tickets not until my son's temperature lowers in 30 minutes! (30 minutes left then it's boarding time). I got so irritated that I wanted to kill that girl and my husband for telling them that our son has a slight fever. I definitely am sure that it's not SARS! But I was aware that my son was starting to have a cough when we left Manila and a little bit of clogged nose. Before we went to the airport, I asked Ej to buy antibiotic for Rye. And while wanting to slash the girl's neck with a knife inside my head I medicated Rye with his antibiotic and did tsb as well. In just a matter of 10 minutes his fever decreased, thanks to my nursing skills. My brain was struck by the thought of him stung by the jellyfish and told the man who was assisting us at the counter. Within 3 minutes the girl who I wanted to kill was walking towards us with a big smile. And said that she was informed by the guy about the jellyfish thing and asked what exactly happened. We told her the story and she gave us info regarding stings of jellyfish. She checked my son's temperature and was convinced about his temp. going down.

Rye slept the whole plane ride. He was really sick and was clinging to me all night long until we arrived home. The next day, we went to see his Doctor and told her the whole story. In conclusion, she saw other factors why Rye has a high-grade fever. She explained that it was caused by his same old Nasosinusitis. She was also alarmed with the jellyfish though.

Thank God!

Early Vacation

2010-02-04T07:57:00.015+08:00

I was scouting for a Puerto Princesa tour package for about 2 months. I really wanted to have a "buti-na-lang-magaling-akong-magtipid" fun tour. And that includes the 3 major visiting places in Puerto Princesa already. Others offer as high as 7k each and they'd give you only 2 tour packages. So I told EJ if he was ready for a lifetime adventure. Meaning, walang arte arte. Mag tricycle kahit 1 hour pa ang biyahe. So he agreed. Si Rye naman walang problema, he's adventurous like his Dad. I made my reservation at Puerto Pension 2 weeks before the "great adventure". I've read lots of good reviews about this place, searched for their website and finally made our reservation.

But because I am so matipid and so wanted to bargain all tour expenses, natawa na lang sakin si Ej. Since nasa Palawan ka na rin, might as well spend your money to have fun, he said.

I listed our 3 days 2 nights itinerary days before the trip. So when we arrived in Palawan, hindi kmi lingo-lingo. We know exactly what to do and where to go. We went straight to Puerto Pension since we were fetched by the hotel's bus/jeepney (a jeepney that looks like a bus), it was a very cool ride, the inside was absolutely adorable and Ej believes it was a custom made vehicle. What's cooler was Rye really enjoyed riding it, though it was just a 10-minute drive from the airport. He said it was like riding on a rollercaoster.

DAY 1

Arrived at around 9:30am
11:30am: lunch in Tribu (Puerto Pension's Restaurant) 900php. 3 out of 5 stars!
1:00pm:City Tour. We hired a tricycle (500) for the city tour trip. If you are to get its' package, it'll cost you 600 each.
a. crocodile farm - 40php adult/20php kid
b. mitra's ranch - no entrance fee
c. baker's hill - no entrance but ate mais con yelo (no more available halo-halo) and palabok
(must try). 180php
d. immaculate concepcion church

We were advised that we won't appreciate butterflies in the afternoon, so we didn't waste our time going there.

We asked Kuya Bong (tricycle driver) to drop us at Baywalk and para makakuha pa sya ng pasahero, sayang din yun Baywalk is just 2-3 minute walk from Puerto Pension. Ej rented a bicycle for Rye and kaming mag asawa, nag lakad lakad. We stayed there for about an hour. Sayang ang 25php bike rental.

We had dinner in Badjao Seafront. Kuya Bong suggested the place since we were informed that you have to make reservations in KaLui. So off to Badjao Seafront. You'll see mangroves along the walkway. When we reached the restaurant, the waiters were all busy that they did not attend to us. So naghanap na lang kami ng table and naghintay ng lalapit na waiter. It was ok though dahil someone came right away. I told Ej to braise himself for the food prices. We both laughed when we saw the menu and their food's corresponding prices. "Nasindak pa naman tayo dahil sa entrance and sa susyal na mga tables and decors, hindi naman pala gaano kamahalan", I told my husband. Mas mahal pa ang Tribu Restaurant actually. We ordered seafood platter and drinks. The food was great and to mention the ambiance! 5/5stars!

DAY 2

Breakfast at Tribu. Ej upgraded his breakfast meal, eat all you can eggs!
7:30am: tour package c/o Puerto Pension. I wanted this to be a great adventure but since Rye is with us and ayaw ko namang maging uncomfortable sya kung sakali mang mag bus kami papuntang Sabang. And pahirapan ang bus dahil meron silang time ng pag alis. So we got the package. 1700 each. Actually I arranged it for 1500php but the receptionist insisted us to get the 1700 package dahil sa Daluyon daw ang lunch. San ba yun?! Eto namang si Mister, go lang ng go. And not informing the most matipid na Misis about this Daluyon thing. Naimbiyerna talaga ako when he told me he got the 1700php package, bahala sya.. pera naman nya yun.hehe

It'll take you maximum of 2 hours to get to The Underground River. Kasama na yung isang stop over to see tres marias island.

My husband and I were so overwhelmed by the sight of the cave. The boatman was so cool giving us information. I was thinking na sana hindi na lang sya ang napunta sa amin, sana dun na lang sya sa mga foreigners para na-enjoy din nila how cool that boatman was. There was never a dull moment kahit na sa bungad pa lang marami ka ng makikita. I wouldn't regret this having this underground river trip.

And here goes our lunch. Lagot talaga sakin tong asawa ko pag hindi ko inenjoy tong lunch na to.
The tour guide told us to walk over to that restaurant. Dun po sa mga may flags, she said. Anak ng kwago, isang kilometro ata yun! Umuusok na talaga ilong ko, sayang ang kojic soap ko! haha..
Can I do anything? of course not! Buti na lang may towel akong dala, tinalukbong ko sa mukha ko. When we were closer.... parang...parang maganda sya sabi ko.. And parang pang mayaman lang ang pwedeng tumira dito.. Parang bagay ako dito.. My husband gave me a smile. And when we walked inside the restaurant, I was the one who was excited to see the whole place. The served us Buko juice right away. Mabilis ang service, dahil sa Puerto Pension pa lang nag order na kami. (btw, Daluyon and Puerto Pension is a sister co., isa lang daw may-ari).

Lunch in Daluyon: 5/5 stars!

Dinner: Kinabuch. Visit this for a gimik ambiance. baked tahong (must try) 4/5 stars!

DAY 3

Breakfast at Tribu.
7:00am: fetched by Kuya Bong. 500php Honday Bay tour trip

a. Luli Island
b. Starfish Island --snorkling
c. Snake Island -- fish feeding, snorkling & lunch
d. Pandan Island

This tour was supposedly my gift to EJ. Meaning (ulit) sweldo ko ang gagamitin sa lamyerdang ito. Pero hanggang sa nakauwi na kmi ng Angeles. Buong-buo pa rin pera sa wallet ko. Hehe..

Thanks Dad for this wonderful trip and oops, belated Happy birthday! I love you.

Ej's 29th birthday in Puerto Princesa

Pork with Broccoli

2010-01-10T07:30:00.010+08:00

Since my dad is only allowed to eat a little amount of beef, I alternate any beef dish with pork. And since I decided to take care of him and not to go to work (ahem) I'll be practicing my profession here at home. Venice aka Nurse, Nutritionist and Chef.

I always cook this. But I never blogged the recipe. This one's different from stir fried/chinese broccoli beef since I make use lots of oyster sauce here butI won't make this hard for you.=)

Ingredients:

1 kilo pork kasim, cut into strips

2 heads of broccoli

1 bottle oyster sauce

1/2 cup soy sauce

butter

1/2 tsp sugar

sliced onions

2-3 cloves garlic minced

salt and pepper

1/4 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with a little amount of water)

sesame seeds (optional)

Procedure:
Marinate pork in soy sauce, half bottle of oyster sauce and a dash of salt and pepper for 10-15 minutes. In a wok, melt the butter, sautee onions and garlic and stir fry pork in batches until color change to brown and start to sizzle. Add in the broccoli stems and stir cook for 2-3 minutes then add in the broccoli floret, stir cook for another 2-3 minutes, add in 1 c. of water, the remaining oyster sauce and sugar. Stir cook for another 3-5 minutes, add in the cornstarch..wait until sauce thickens. Correct seasoning if required. Serve hot.

Estacio-Santiago Nuptial

2009-12-19T12:04:00.015+08:00

L&S Church

Grand Palazzo Royale

Unice & Venice

Rye gets to be an Angel

2009-12-19T11:15:00.014+08:00

Kuya gets to be an angel in the Second Graders' first Communion. No, I didn't spend even a single peso in this costume. Sutana was borrowed from one of the knights of the altar. Wings were from Atcheng Yeng's nephew and halo was made by my dad.

Seo looking for his kuya.

And while their dad's away, I can secretly give them chips, candies and softdrinks.. I hope Dada won't read this. Peace sweetheart!

29th BBQ Birthday Party!

2009-12-19T09:44:00.016+08:00

It's so frustrating. The minute I entered the hospital world, it's like I also lost time for my self, family and friends. Yes, I gained new friends.. but I felt like abandoning my close-closest friends. Before, whenever they invite me I wouldn't think twice. I wouldn't hesitate. And now... I can just imagine how they'd make faces because it takes me million of years to respond and usually, when i give them my reply, I turn them down.

November passed, I didn't even thought of blogging my BBQ birthday party. But it's better late than never or else i'll forget the event for the rest of my life. (and i usually suffer from short term-memory loss, i'm serious.) As much i as I wanted to blog the every-minute-funny-moments of my birthday party, I couldn't. So I have to base everything from these captured photos and see if i can remember all that's happened.

Fig. 1

Fig. 2

Fig. 3

Nursing friends were the first to arrive. Obvioulsy they all loved my bbq. It's a sad thing I wasn't able to take photos of them eating isaw and adidas.

Fig. 4

Apolkisse's gifts. Painting not included.

Fig. 5

Present from SHMC friends. Really yummy, next time i'll order this at TollHouse.

Fig. 6

It wouldn't be normal if we don't get to look abnormal.

Fig. 7

Game time.

Fig. 8

Having Fun.

Fig. 9

And of course, make use of the beauty of nature.

Family Day @ Chevalier School

2009-11-03T13:50:00.007+08:00

I could not blog as often as I want since I've been busy with work. Yes, I am working now. Parang wala sa vocabulary o ang maging working mom. As much as I want to be called "SAHM" (stay at home mom), hindi pwede ska panahong ito. I need to earn this experience as a Nurse so when time comes that we all need to go to the US, ready ako to work kahit papano.

Though I've been in and out of the house for 3 months now because of work, I see to it that I still do hands on when it comes to Rye's studies/schooling. And this October, we had this Family Day at Chevalier. Good thing, off ako sa work so EJ and I attended the event. I wanted to be always present at Rye's school events. Ayoko namang masabihang pinapabayaan ko anak ko dahil may work na ako. Kahit pagod ok lang. I have a 12 hour shift in the hospital. It's not favorable for moms like me because it's eating my whole time. So most of the time when I come home at night, antok na antok na talaga ako. And sometimes I really feel guilty because all I coud do is to kiss them goodnight.

I try as hard as I can to balance my time. I so wanted to go biking with Seo everyday at 5pm just like before. But there's no way that could possibly happen since I'm on duty from 7 in the morning til 7 pm.

My birthday's coming. Sana hindi ko makalimutang birthday ko dahil pre-occupied ako. =(

I dreamt of tornadoes

2009-08-25T17:22:00.005+08:00

I'm not really sure if this is the first time I dreamt of tornadoes. What happened in my dream was out of nowhere this tornado came and it was rushing towards our house, take note it crushed our house.. just our house. Houses beside us weren't even hit by it! Talagang kami lang ang target. So of course even in my dream I was protecting my kids so they won't get hit by a flying wall or something. And then on the next scene (parang pelikula eh no), the same thing happened. This time we weren't in our house but in another place but still looked like a house. And again, same exact thing happened. We were hit by little tornadoes. I can't remember how many they were but they were numerous. And when I went outside the house this guy (I am not familiar with) told me that maybe we were using our televisions, phones, computers, lights (anything to do with electricity) that's why we are the tornadoes' target. So I hurriedly went inside the house and told everyone to unplug all the switches. And I can't remember what happened next since it was just a nap.

So I searched for dream interpretation and found this. Tornado would mean:
1. worries about an uncertain future
2. a person with a bad temper - a fast moving situation
3. emotional outbursts and temper tantrums.
4. change in your life - the need to adapt

But this is one of the best interpretations:

TORNADOS : Hurricanes can be symbolic of extreme stress in your life and an inability to relax. The skies in dreams generally link to the future and the possibility of change. So if they are disturbed then there is no clear outlook for how things will be. But tornados may symbolise lots of things. They may link to bad things that are about to happen and problems that you are anticipating.

QUESTIONS to help you make associations(pick the one that makes most sense to you)
- What issue yesterday sent your mind into a spin?
- Have you been very stressed recently?
- Who is tornado like - causing havoc and destruction?
- What crisis are you planning for in the near future?
- Are there many changes in your life right now?

KEY WORDS : Uncertain, arguments, havoc, stress, unforeseen,changes, weather forecast(write down some quotes that capture your key feelings on issues that have been dominating your mind. Then see if any of these words could appear in those quotes)

KEY PHRASES(Pick a quote which captures your feelings right now. Think especially of the day before the dream) :
- "uncertain about the future"
- "coping with all these changes in my life"
- "It will be a huge argument"
- "I am having to come to terms with the changes in my life"
- "I cannot relax"
- "They cause havoc where ever they go"
- "been told so many things at one time - simply bombarded with too much information"
- "I simply did not expect that"
- "I am starting to feel ill"
- "yesterdays weather forecast"

HOW TO USE THESE SYMBOLS : CLICK HERE
FULL DREAM DICTIONARY : CLICK HERE
COMPUTERIZED SEARCH: CLICK HERE

SEE ALSO : Birds : Skies : Tornadoes : Storms : Rain
DREAM STUDIES : Birds : Tornadoes and hurricanes
--------------------------------------
METHODS : For a full explanation of the methods used in this dream study CLICK HERE
Below you will see a series of quotes. Each quote represents the meaning of a particular dream(these are all dreams where the meaning is understood totally). For instance one dream may have meant that the dreamer was having trouble at work. In that case the quote may simply be "There is a bad atmosphere at work". Some information is included about which dream symbols were included in the dream(within the squares brackets). Often a sample dream is included which shows you how the dream interpretation was reached.
-----------------------------------
ESSAY : What is the symbolic meaning of the tornados in dreams?

Tornados may symbolise your own uncertainties about the future. That can be linked to major changes taking place in your life. E.g.

"I feel really insecure as my father has just died. What is going to happen"[Dream symbol - Tornado dream][Dream symbol - this quote is based on a real dream interpretation which is featured at the end of this article]

"I am leaving home to be on my own. I feel insecure about everything though and do not want to end up back home"[Dream symbol - five tornadoes dream]

"My parents are getting a divorce. I am unsure what life will be like afterwards."[Dream symbol - tornado forming]

"I have had a really bad year and the tornado portrays my own emotional state."[Dream symbol - tornadoes]

Tornadoes may link to change in a general sense. It maybe that lots of things have been happening and you are in a process of adjustment. E.g.

"I have had some changes in my life right now. They are quite major and I am just adjusting"[Dream symbol - Tornado dream

Tornados can link to feelings of stress. The tornado will capture the inability to relax. E.g.

"my head is spinning round at the moment. I am under a lot of stress"[Dream symbol - heard sirens for a tornado warning dream]

"I have been getting a lot of tornado dreams recently. My head has been messed up and I have been showing real tantrums. The dreams went away later when I started sorting my head out"[Dream symbol - tornado dreams]

"I suffer from depression and can tend to get into tantrums when I drink"[Dream symbol - Tornado warning dream]

Tornados can link to moments when you cannot think clearly. You maybe bombarded by facts or suggestions. E.g.

"I am living in a religious cult. I want to leave but not without my husband. I am trying to reduce the impact they have on me right now."[Dream symbol - Ants spin around like tornado dream]

Tornados may link to something that is unavoidable and has caused a great dealdealdamage in your life. In short this may refer to some kind of natural disaster in your own life. E.g.

"my boyfriend is moving to another state. I want to keep things moving but at the moment its just a disaster"[Dream symbol - talking to the dead of hurricane Katrina dream]

Tornados may be a sign that there is trouble to come. You maybe detecting some warning signs in yourself or in situations around you. E.g.

"I woke up after this dream and went to work. Yet I was still ill and should have stayed at home"[Dream symbol - Tornado warnings dream]

"I am trying to take a relaxed attitude towards something that is about to blow up. If problems occur then its pointless worrying about it"[Dream symbol - tornado dream]

"My relationship with my boyfriend is at a critical point. It is likely that we will break up soon. I am not sure what he is going to say"[Dream symbol - tornado dream]

Tornadoes can represent people who cause havoc. E.g.

"My two children are a real handful. I am dreading lookng after them during the fifteen hour journey home."[Dream symbol - two tornadoes dream]

Tornadoes can represent arguments that have either just happened or are about to happen. E.g.

"My sister wants to get rid of her unwanted houseguess. I could not offer her any good advice. It will not be easy. "[Dream symbol - tornadoes dream]

"We just constantly seem to argue. They are such petty arguents. "[Dream symbol - 4 tornadoes dream]

Of course tornados and hurricanes do happen and the dreams may actually be about tornados and forecasts of them and the effects of them.

Yes. I am really stressed this past few days with my Dad's chemotherapy, with the trainings at the hospital, with my son's birthday and not to mention, I had diarrhea just this morning. Maybe it really reflects what's inside my mind and heart. I hope to get out of this stress and confusion.

Work or Family?

2009-08-13T11:53:00.013+08:00

Hay.. This is really bothering me. Parang ang bigat sa puso and I need to blog it badly. You see last night when I was watching Bullfighting, Mike He's (my Taiwanese boyfriend) drama, I got a text message saying that I have a final job interview today at 9 in the morning. So I texted back to confirm my presence. I was excited last night so I slept early.

Just this week, my son had his First quarterly exam so I patiently taught him all the pointers to review. I made him an exam of every subject. I so wanted him to be like his Dad. I have always complimented my husband's intelligence. He can get a high score back in college even if hindi sya mag review. Isa syang matalinong nilalang. But sadly, I don't exactly remember who told me that your children will get/inherit their mom's mind capabilities. Aray ko.. napalunok talaga ako nung narinig ko yun. Hindi naman ako bornok or something, I was even a dean's lister during my Preparatory Dentistry days and nakakapasok naman ako sa Top 10 in my Nursing days. But I 've always wanted my children to get their intelligence from their Dad. Mas kampante ako pag ganun.

Anyway, when Rye came home from school the other day. He presented me his examination papers. I was not surprised since I knew all along that my son inherited his father's brain. He even got only 2 mistakes in one of his subjects.

So what's bothering me and my husband, since we have talked about it last week is the future situation that'll come along once I started to work as a nurse. We all know the hospital shifts are crazy. You need adjustments every month. In AUFMC they change your shift every month and it's all in the hands of our head nurse what shift she'd be giving you.

My husband is so worried that he can't do what I have been doing to and for my sons. He is worried that he might not be able to give Rye a good review when he'll be having his exam or quiz. He is of course anticipating what's going to happen since my schedule would be like a roller coaster. So he, on the other hand knew all along that he's the one suppose to do some of the "mothering job" to our kids. We have our helpers, but we don't want our children to be too dependent on them. When I am at home, I do hands-on. I feel guilty when I ask my helpers to take care of my children. What we have been thinking now is what's going to happen with Rye's grades once I started working. I remember one time, when my Dad was confined for 1 month at the hospital, I asked EJ to teach and review Rye since his examination is getting nearer. When his papers were presented to me, naloka talaga ako sa score nya. At ang magaling kong asawa ang sinabi nya lang ng nakangiti " I did my best Mom hindi ko talaga kaya ginagawa mo eh". Paano naman ako magagalit dinaan nko sa ngiti.. I even gave up breastfeeding that time! I was so guilty! The refrigerator was full of my pumped milk so that when EJ comes at night at the hospital he'd bring them home. I couldn't even go home to take a bath or have a good sleep that time. The hospital was my home for 1 month.

That's how we have thought of me not going to work anymore.

Here's another major reason. My Dad. As you all know he's on his last stage of Lung Cancer. The growth of the cancer cells are very noticeable thru all the scans he's been having. When my Dad asked how my job interview went, I said "natanggap nko kaso ayaw na ni EJ ako magtrabaho sana". And he goes "bakit hindi mo kaya"? I was like " hindi ko talaga kaya once nag start na magdeteriorate katawan mo." But I said "mag start ka na kase mag chemo ulit eh" instead. And he said "Eh chemo lang naman yun eh once a month lang naman yun". That's what I was worried about once nag start na sya ng chemo, manghihina katawan nya and papayat sya. And just like what I have explained in my previous blogs, ako lang ang pwedeng mag bantay sa kanya 24/7. And once I start working, pano na?! Who'll take care of him. What my Dad doesn't know is the consequence of his chemo therapy. This time, ibang chemo drug na ang ibibigay sa kanya not unlike the first 2 cycles before na yung pinili naming chemo drug is super mininal ang side effects. Konting nausea and vomiting lang. But this time the doctor explained na grabe ang magiging effects. My Dad had his caregiver after his long hospitalization since he could not even stand. We allowed Cris to go home dahil anihan daw ng palay. But there's no assurance na babalik pa sya. He was really good and we treated him like a family. Ej was bringing him to his basketball tournament before, we give him additional pang load so he can text his girlfriend back home. Most of the time I hear stories na ang chemo pa ang pinagumpisahang magdeteriorate ang katawan ng pasyente. That's actually true, kaya nga mas gusto naming ganyan na lang sana si daddy para man lang mas humaba pa ang buhay nya. Mas napapadali daw ang buhay once nag start na mag chemo. Of course hindi naman sa lahat ng patients nangyayari yun. So we have our hopes up.

So here comes another adjustment. When EJ arrived home late last night, he asked me if I was going to the interview and I said yes ofcourse. Uhmm...iniisip ko kase wag na he said. And I said can we talk about it tomorrow?. My husband drove me to the hospital and while on our way binanggit nya yung issue. Napaisip tuloy ako.. For 3 interviews with this hospital, lahat yun hinatid sundo ako ng asawa ko. On my first job interview pa nga he so wanted to make this huge karatula cheering fobout it tomorrow morning because I was really having a bad bad bad headache! And it's not normal for me na tanggihan ang pasalubong nya sa gabi, but last night inisnab ko dala nyang yummy tinapay dahil sa migraine ko. Thanks to Mike He and his gorgeous looks, I was watching his drama for 12 hours with only lunch and dinner break.

Ayun na nga ba, when I woke up this morning I forgot that we were suppose to talk about me not getting in to any job. Me, concentrating on being a full time Mom and me, being a private nurse of my dad. Hmm, sa sakit cguro ng ulo ko last night nakalimutan kong chumika muna sa asawa ko bago maligo. So after eating breakfast, I took a shower me. Nakakatuwa and nakakakilg. Same goes with my 2nd and final interview. Though he had patients waiting for him, he decided to wait for me. He'd call his secretary para ipamove nya na lang appointments nya. Sweet diba. And right after the interview pagsakay na pagsakay ko sa kotse he's super excited how it went. Mom kwento ka na, simulan ko daw sa pagpasok ko ng pinto tapos ano na ang kasunod. He's crazy! Una asawa bago pasyente =)

Anyway, I got accepted thanks to Gadu for his big help. For now I don't know what's gonna happen with my dad's condition. So until "it" happens I might as well go on with this job and see what'll happen next.

Another Chemotherapy

2009-08-06T10:31:00.010+08:00

This month, our Dad is again to undergo Chemotherapy. And this time, his Oncologist said he'll be giving the one which would make him more nauseated and will make him vomit many times. The one we chose before was one of the expensive chemo drugs and its' side effect is minimal. Lesser nausea and vomiting. With his previous chemotherapy, he only puked twice and almost did not feel nauseated. But now, Dr. Manalo did not offer us variety of choices. He clearly stated the best chemo drug for our Dad's situation right now. When he had his check up last weekend (August 1) my husband presented the CT scan report and the lab results. The laboratory results were all in normal range, no problem. But the ct scan report says that there was a slight increase in the size compared to his last chest scan with contrast in March. And that's not all. Yes there was an increase in size and they also spotted additional 2 formations of cancer cells in his lungs.

No, I intentionally did not come to his last check up. EJ and ate accompanied my Dad. Days before his check up, he said that he'll surely ask his doctor the stage of his cancer. I'm one of those who sometimes can't accept nuts and bolts. Reality would sometimes mean heartache. Reality really bites, and most of the time I am scared to face it. So I opted not to be there and let Ej and ate face the fallout of the situation. Maybe Dad didn't really want to know his stage, he always forget about asking it to his doctor over and over again. I was thinking that maybe, just maybe.. he really doesn't want to know the truth. He is not stupid, in fact he is one of the intelligent people I really admire. When I was a kid, I always think why my Dad knows everything and why my Mom doesn't. Ask him anything, and he'd give you answers. Kidding aside, If someone tells you that there is an increase number in your cancer cells, what would you possibly think of? That there is something absolutely wrong! When he gets home every after check up, he'd say.. ay nakalimutan kong tanungin stage ko. Well in fact, ang dami ng nadulas sa kanya na he's on his last stage. Sad but true.

I am about to start working this September or October in a nearby hospital. But at the back of my mind, I always think what my Dad's condition would be at that time. I can't lose this job or I might not get another opportunity next time. But I am also thinking who would accompany him when his health worsen or when he needs to be admitted for his next cycle of chemotherapy. My Mom's in New York, my Ate is working in Manila and would soon get her promotion. My husband always have patients. Anyway, I know God will make a way. Before his chemo sessions, we decided to have our photos taken as a family. Of course Mom's not here but surely she'll enjoy staring at these photos when she sees them.

Gusto ko lang tumawa bakit ba?!

2009-07-24T18:44:00.003+08:00

Profound Tagalog Terms

* BAKTOL -ang ikatlong lebel ng mabahong amoy sa kili-kili. Ang baktol ay kapareho ng amoy ng nabubulok na bayabas. Ito'y dumidikit sa damit, at humahalo sa pawis. madalas na naaamoy tuwing registration, lalo na sa mga GE subject gaya ng natsci, comm, socsci etc, dahil sa sobrang siksikan ng mga estudyante.
*
KUKURIKAPU -ibag sa ilalim ng boobs. Madalas na namumuo dahil sa labis na baby powder na nilalagay sa katawan. Maaari ding mamuo kung hindi talaga naliligo o naghihilod ang isang babae. Mga KUKURIKAPU ay mas madalas mamuo sa mga babaeng malalaki ang joga.
*
MULMUL -buhok sa gitna ng isang nunal. mahirap ipaliwanag kung bakit nagkakaroon ng MULMUL ang isang nunal. subalit hindi talaga ito naaalis, kahit na bunutin pa ito, maliban na lamang kung ipapa-laser ito.
*
BURNIK -taeng sumabit sa buhok sa pwet. Madalas nararanasan ng mga taong nagti-tissue lamang pagkatapos tumae. ang BURNIK ay mahirap alisin, lalo na kapag natuyo na ito. ipinapayo sa mga may BURNIK na maligo na lamang upang ito'y maalis.
*
ALPOMBRA -kasuotan sa paa na kadalasang makikitang suot ng mga tindero ng yosi sa Quiapo. Ito'y may makipot na suotan ng paa, at manipis na swelas. Mistulang sandalyas ito ng babae pero kadalasang suot ng mga lalaki. Available in blue, red, green, etc.
*
BAKOKANG -higanteng peklat. Ito'y madalas na dulot ng mga sugat na malaki. Imbes na normal na balat ang nakatakip sa bakokang, ito'y mayroong makintab na takip.
*
AGIHAP -libag na dumikit sa panty o brief dahil sa labis na pagmamahal sa suot panloob. nabubuo ang AGIHAP kung ang panty o brief ay nasuot na ng hindi bababa sa tatlong araw.
*
DUKIT -ito ang amoy na nakukuha kung isinabit mo ang daliri mo sa iyong puwit....try it to prove it, that's DUKIT.
*
SPONGKLONG > ito'y isang bagong wika na nangangahulugan sa isang estupidong tao.
*
LAPONGGA - ito'y kahintulad sa laplapan o kaya ay lamasan.
*
WENEKLEK -ito ang buhok sa utong na kadalasang nakikita sa mga tambay sa kanto na laging nakahubad. Meron din ang babae nito.
*
BAKTUNG -pinaikling salita ng BAKAT-UTONG.
*
BAKTI -bakat panty.
*
ASOGUE -buhok sa kilikili.
*
BARNAKOLI -maitim na libag sa batok na naipon sa matagal na panahon.
*
BULTOKACHI -tubig na tumatalsik sa pwet kapag nalalaglag ang isang malaking ebak.
*
BUTUYTUY -etits ng bata.
*
JABARR -pawis ng katawan.
*
KALAMANTUTAY -mabahong pangalan.
*
MCARTHUR -taeng bumabalik after mong i-flush.

R.I.P. Uncle Marvin

2009-07-23T07:20:00.009+08:00

As much as possible, I never wanted to blog about someone's death. As time passes by, parang nag iiba na ang pananaw ng mga tao sa pagkamatay ng isang minamahal nila sa buhay. Unlike before, once you hear that someone died and when you attended his/her funeral parang yung mga kamag-anak, they couldn't let go of that person. I even heard stories of funerals wherein gusto ng sumama ng namatayan sa namatay.. Sabi ko nga sa isang nakakwentuhan ko sa wake ni Uncle Marvin, hindi na ako nakaka attend ng wake na halos lahat ng mga tao malungkot (but that would depend on how the person died i.e. rape or murder) halos lahat na ng napuntahan ko yung mga dumating na tao nagtatawanan, nagkkwentuhan, some even play cards. If it's a long term disease, mas tanggap na ng mga kamag anak ang pagkamatay since they would prefer na hindi na mahirapan ang mahal nila sa buhay. And that's how Uncle Marvin died, he was fighting against his disease for 5-6 years so when it was time to let him go, we knew that it would be the best for him. To be with God eternally.

His daughters,grandchildren, son and sons-in-law

Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce Ala Venicci

2009-07-05T15:35:00.011+08:00

Last week, my husband told me that our menu every Sunday isn't that appealing to him any more. Of course I also have my tamad time to cook and napansin din pala nya yun =). Dapat every sunday is a "good food day" because everyone's here. And I'm the one who's in charge for every week's menu (meaning, I make a list of ulam for the 1 whole week), kaya dapat sarapan ko daw ang ulam tuwing Linggo. So for this day I prepared Chicken Cutlets and Creamed Corn Sauce for lunch, Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce for merienda and Liempo BBQ for dinner. Sounds yummy? yes they are really yummy! It's my first time to make chicken cutlets and creamed corn sauce & spag with alfredo sauce but they're both yummy and tasty! I never knew that spag with alfredo sauce would be that easy.It's as easy as 123! No kidding, anyone can do this. I browsed different kinds of cooking recipes and the main ingredients would be the all-purpose cream and parmesan cheese. I agree it's a bit pricey because of the parmesan cheese nevertheless if you have it or if it's available in your kitchen, much better. I altered some amount of ingredients from the recipes I have browsed, and here's my own Spaghetti with Aflredo Sauce ala Venicci (sounds like Venichi)

Ingredients:

400g Del Monte Spaghetti

2 250ml all-purpose cream

1/4 cup butter

3/4 cup parmesan cheese

2-3 pcs of sliced ham

white pepper to taste

Procedure:

1. Cook noodles per package intstruction.

2. Melt butter in a saucepan.

3. Add ham.

4. Pour 2 cartons of All-Purpose cream

5. Add parmesan cheese.

6. Add white pepper to taste. (the parmesan is salty already)

7. Let sauce simmer for 5 minutes, or until desired thickness is reached.

Chicken Cutlets and Creamed Corn Sauce

2009-07-05T12:24:00.006+08:00

I was not able to blog recipes for the past months since I was preoccupied with my work as a Nurse. And I am taking advantage of this mini vacation of mine to blog food recipes as much as I can. I was browsing my new favorite pinoycook website and was eager to find new chicken recipes ( I was running out of new chicken and pork recipe, really!). And so I came across this Pork Cutlets and Creamed Corn Sauce. I was thinking of giving it a try since Rye loves the taste of butter and corn combined. Here's the recipe, I wanted a chicken recipe so I used chicken instead of pork.

Ingredients :

1 kilo chicken breast, cut into 1/2 inch slices
3/4 c. of flour
1 tsp. of salt
1/2 tsp. of pepper
1 c. of cooking oil

For the sauce :

1 can of whole corn kernels
1 c. of full cream milk,m I used Alpine
1/4 c. of butter
2 tbsp. of flour
1 onion, sliced
salt and pepper to taste

Cooking procedure :

Mix together the flour salt and pepper. Dredge each piece of pork in it and fry in hot oil until golden and crisp on the outside. Drain on paper towels and arrange on a serving platter.

Melt the butter in a saucepan. Add the sliced onion and cook for 30 seconds. Push the onions to the side and add the flour to the butter. Stir to avoid lumps. Pour in the corn water, stirring to form a pasty mixture. Pour in the milk and heat through. Turn off the heat and season with salt and pepper. Pour over the pork cutlets. Serve at once.

My highschool girl friends

2009-06-30T15:36:00.004+08:00

I have lots of girl friends and I love them all.. I just don't know why they've been taking their time to get married. It's so sad that I could not somehow make ways to see my highschool girlfriends. If only they knew how much I miss them. I always leave someone special in every chapter of my life, and i truly am sad for not being able to be there when they have their first job interview or when they've gotten a marriage proposal already or when they wanted to really like buy this pretty dress in this particular store...It really saddens me.. I wanted so bad to be with them. I miss Elia, i miss the time when she'd tell me to go to her University and see her painting exhibition. I miss Apples, i miss the way she giggles when she's in love. I miss Jenny, i miss how she worries about me when I got obssessed with this younger boy. I miss Bena, i miss how she welcomes me at her home and even lending me her bathing suit because I so wanted to dive in their swimming pool. I miss Angel, i miss how she and i drool over hot school boys.. There are moments you really can't buy, and how you wanted it to last. but there are also moments that you can't go back to and you can't turn back the time. If there is really a time machine, I want to go back to highschool. I wouldn't change anything. I just wanted to experience it all over again. I would still choose to feel all the excitement, pain, foolishness, happiness and everything else!

And if I was given a chance to go back to highschool, I'd still choose them to be my highschool girl friends.

Earthquake in Manila

2009-06-22T06:20:00.005+08:00

And so I am scared. With this explosive news, the first thing that crossed my mind is how to protect my children. As a mother, I only pray for my kids' safety and nothing else. I woke up today and watched television, and this news really gave me goosebumps.It was on the newspaper last week and was aired early this morning.

Excerpt from Inquirer:

UN to Metro Manila: Ready for Big One?
By Michael Lim Ubac
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:34:00 06/20/2009

Filed Under: Earthquake, Disasters (general), Government, Science (general)

GENEVA—Is Metro Manila prepared for the Big One?

Arjun Kartoch, head of the Emergency Services Branch of the United Nations’ Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, posed this startling question during the Tuesday taping here of the BBC show, “World Debate,” opening discussions on the occurrence of an earthquake in the Philippines’ national capital region, with projected devastating results.

According to Kartoch, an earthquake with a magnitude of 7 or higher on the Richter scale will hit Metro Manila. He did not say when it would happen, as science cannot yet predict the exact occurrence of earthquakes.

Hosted by Nik Gowing, the BBC debate will be broadcast on July 4 to about 80 million global viewers. It pits Kartoch with the Philippines’ Sen. Loren Legarda, Guido Bertolaso, head of Italy’s Civil Protection Agency, and Edward Borodzicz, professor of risk management at Portsmouth Business School in the United Kingdom.

Millions affected

Kartoch heads the UN office assigned to mobilize and coordinate effective humanitarian action during complex emergencies and natural disasters worldwide.

He presented a simulated picture of the effects of the tragedy, which first came out in a 2004 study released by the Earthquakes and Megacities Initiative (EMI).

Buildings (hospitals, schools, establishments) and residences will collapse, Kartoch said, simulating the impact of the tremor according to urban congestion, population density and buildings’ quake resistance, among other variables.

He said there would be “16,000 buildings destroyed” and “150,000 [persons] injured.”

At this point, Gowing noted that in such a “tragedy,” millions of residents of Metro Manila (pop.: 12 million) would be affected.

‘The question is when’

Emmanuel de Guzman, the advisor for Asia-Pacific of the UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR), told the Inquirer that Kartoch was quoting EMI, which conducted the Metro Manila Earthquake Impact Reduction Study (MMEIRS) in 2002-04 in collaboration with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) and Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

“The big earthquake is certainly coming. The question is when. No one can tell. It can happen today, tomorrow, or next year. But certainly there will be an earthquake,” De Guzman said.

In an e-mail, Kartoch confirmed that the figures he cited were from the projected damage and casualties in the MMEIRS.

He reiterated that he did not say for sure when the quake would occur.

Baby Products

2009-06-08T14:07:00.008+08:00

For my little one Seo, I have always used Aveeno products. They are quite expensive and at times online sellers sell them as pre orders. It's a good thing, here in Angeles City there are quite a few stores of US products so sometimes they're easy to find but most of the time they're still out of stock. I don't buy Aveeno products here. What I am most happy about is that I get them for free! =) Really, these products are just a call away.. If I ran out of this and that lotion/babywash I call my Mom right away and tell her to buy her grandson his Aveeno Baby products. My Mom sends her BalikBayan box thrice or 4 times or even 5 times a year. And it's not just 1 balikbayan box. She sends 2 or more every shipment. We all laughed when she included sugar in her box, "at kelan pa nawalan ng asukal sa grocery sa Pinas?" Hindi pa sya nakuntento, pati paminta pinapadalhan nya rin kami..

Anyway, I came across this forum and there's this thread about soaps and shampoos for babies. There are lists of baby products, and I personally enjoyed reading them because I have also thought of entertaining other options as well. In any event, hindi talaga ako makuha ng supply from the States, of course I'd rather buy baby products here in the Philippines. And i would definitely choose those that aren't hard to find. I don't like J&J products. I used them with Kuya Rye and I am not satisfied. Foe quite some time, I liked Suave Shampoos and Conditioners (for kids) , what I like most is the smell of their shampoos and conditioners. But again, they're not easy on the pocket. Oo nga naman, syempre mas mahal ang mga dekalidad na produkto daba.. But isn't there any product which is at it's high end quality and at the same time affordable?

Yana's Birthday Invitation

2009-06-07T09:25:00.006+08:00

My Pampangkinin is also turning ONE! Yipee! I made the email invites for those unreachable friends of Ate and Rhondel.She texted and ordered me to design the invitation and she wanted me to send/email her right away. I asked for Yana's studio photos and there's none, it's okay this one's nice as well. For about 3-4 hours I came up with this one. Not bad for a rushed invite eh? Next time i'll tell her to inform me a at least a week before..

His First Haircut

2009-06-03T11:10:00.007+08:00

Date: May 31, 2009

Time: Mid afternoon

Venue: Gupit Bulinggit

Seo's mood: Ecstatic

Mom's mood: Elated and hurting ( due to stiff neck)

Dada's mood: Entranced

Kuya's mood: Euphoric

Yaya's mood: Happy, so happy!

Seo never cried. He did not (unexpectedly) show any signs of listlessness, boredome or weariness. He was really scheduled to have his haircut last May 24, but both Ej and Seo had colds so we decided to push it through the next Sunday. And sad to say, I had this uber harrowing stiff neck. I even took mild pain killer and muscle relaxant just so the pain would temporarily go away because I really wanted to go and see Seo's reaction with his first ever haircut. Momentarily,the pain went away so I was trying to focus all my attention to Seo. I was expecting EJ would need a hand in any event my son would go restless. But Seo, as what I have said did not at all show any indication of antsiness. He was busy playing, walking and running.
I am hoping with his next haircut he'd still be just like this.

I'ts Your Birthday!

2009-05-29T18:15:00.006+08:00

More photos here.

5 x 7 Backdrop Tarp

2009-05-08T13:45:00.005+08:00

For a day or 2, I envied this one Mommie when I came across her blog that she only paid 18 pesos per sq ft on her baby's tarpaulin printing. I surveyed almost all printing areas in Angeles City to look for that same price. And obviously I didn't find any. Well, hers is cheaper because she got it printed from her brother-in law's printing business located in QC. And I don't intend to go to Manila to have my tarp printed, pamasahe pa lang talo na ako. I still searched even at Multiply to sort out different prices. Their prices range from 30-35 pesos per sq ft. Lene, our dental clinic's secretary informed us about this 20 pesos per sq ft printing office here in Angeles City. Thanks Leneching, I owe you big time! 20 pesos is way better than 30-35 bucks!

My Daffy Seo

2009-05-07T11:19:00.012+08:00

My Little One is not little any longer. I can't believe it's been a year. I could still remember those days I was always taking photos of my weekly belly. I even made him a video of his 3D Ultrasound. And not to mention my 27-hour labor. Wow, that was really fast. I still try to breastfeed him til now. Nanghihinayang lang talaga ako dahil mixed feeding na sya ngaun (formula & breastfeed). If it's not because of my work, I wouldn't have done that. I'd still stick to pure breastfeeding. But nangyari na ang nangyari, well as long as Seo is healthy it's okay with me.

Every morning he wakes me up by kissing me and calling me Mom..(mom..sabay kiss).. He's really a sweet boy! Sabi nga nila because of the bonding (breastfeeding) kaya he's so attached with me.

I've seen their differences ( Rye & Seo). When Rye was at that age, he loved watching television & his dvds. Once you play his fave Barney dvd, tatahan na sya sa pag iyak. Seo is way too different from his kuya. Halos wala syang pakialam sa tv but take note: i've mentioned this before in my previous blog how much he likes KC Concepcion. As in! Literal na gusto nya si KC. That's the only time na mapapapanood mo sya ng tv, pag nag air na ang commercial nya. And take note again, hindi lang sa one particular commercial, lahat ng commercials nya alam ni Seo. He knows KC's voice, and once he hears her voice nakatitig na sya sa tv. So what I have observed is mas ginagamit ni Seo and Auditory than that of his Occular/Visual sense. Seo couldn't sleep unless I sing him his favorite lullaby which is: (don't laugh) one of Full House's (koreanovela) songs. It's instrumental actually and I started humming it to him on the first day of his life. Mas mahimbing ang tulog nya pag nakanta ko sa kanya yun. Maybe because na din sa pag introduce ko ng songs sa kanya kahit nasa womb pa lang sya. Ang kinaiinis nga lang ni EJ, puros taiwanese and korean songs ang gusto ni Seo. At least may pinag manahan. But now he also loves English songs. It's a good thing na yung isa naming bagong yaya mahilig din sa music.. and what's so nice about her is she talks to Seo in English.

Seo is walking now. He started when he was 10 month old, just like his Kuya.

On the other hand: Rain's still here, we were thinking na ipostpone ang birthday party ni Seo. Well, if that's the case we all have to bear with it..

Learner Types

Visual Learners

Are ‘readers’ and ‘observers’. They take in information through the eyes. They learn by observing or reading. They are good at visualising (seeing pictures in their minds) of people, places, pictures and even words, are usually able to give detailed reports of what they have seen. Visual learners learn to read by remembering the shapes of words and sequences of letters – not by ‘sounding out’ the words. Also, they would much prefer to read something than listen to a lecture about it. These are the people who like to go places and see things, usually good at using maps and graphs. They never travel anywhere without something to read and when planning a trip usually do a lot of research beforehand.

Auditory Learners

Are ‘listeners’ and or ‘talkers’ they take in information through the ears, i.e. are good at remembering things they hear. They often talk a lot and ask at lot of questions; often finding it necessary to restate the information in order to process what they have heard. Quite often when reading, they find they understand the information better if they read it aloud. They would much prefer listening to a lecture than reading. Auditory learners are usually great socialisers and often spend a lot of time on the phone; they never meet a stranger; they talk to people wherever they go. Auditory learners like listening to music, have difficulty studying if it’s too quiet – they like noise around them. When asked a question, they often repeat or restate what you said before answering; and just give the directions, they don’t use maps!.

Tactile Learners

Are ‘feelers’ and ‘touchers’. They take in information through the sense of touch, by feeling texture and shapes; often takes lots of notes or designs/doodles while listening to lectures or when thinking/reflecting. (And often they’ll never look at notes again, but in order to remember the information they must write to down – it’s their way of reorganising the information.) Tactile learners are in touch with themselves and their feelings. When talking to someone they often touch the person on the arm or shoulder and stand very close, or stand with their hands in their packets or will handle something; Sometimes, instead of taking notes the tactile learners will sit with arms or legs crossed but then when an important point is made they will stroke their sleeve/arms, touch their face or hair etc.

Kinaesthic Learners

Are ‘Doers’. They take in information kinetically – through the muscles. The kinaesthetic learner needs to move in order to learn; are often called ‘active learners’. They learn best when they can combine use of their muscles with reading or talking. They ‘talk with their hands’; often walk around or just move side to side while talking. Kinetic learners do best in jobs where they can move around a lot; cannot ‘stay put’ for long periods of time; are good at doing things with their hands such as building things or doing mechanical work and are usually good at sports. When sitting too long they begin to fidget and wiggle; they need breaks so they can move around. They much prefer the playground and game field in indoor activities.

Party Preps

2009-05-06T18:46:00.006+08:00

It's like a never-ending battle, for me to hold on to our super tight budget for Seo's first birthday party. We wanted to give Seo a nice and fun party just like we did with Kuya's first bday which we celebrated way way back in a hotel in QC. For Seo's birthday, as i've said kahit uber tight budget kami, we'd still try to make it as "parang-super-pinaghandaang-party". Anyhow, magaling naman ako sa pag babudget since "budget officer" (nestea commercial) ako dito sa bahay.

Birthday Theme: Baby Einstein

Venue: Xevera clubhouse

Food:Asti's

Photography:Bulon

Cake: http://www.ddlhomemadecakes.com/gallery.php

Party Host: Digo

Party Decoration/Balloon Decoration/Face Painting: Digo's

Bubble Machine: c/o Dr. Noli (thanks!)

Soundsystem: c/o EJ

Giveaways/Balloons/Prizes/Piñata//Balloon Burst/Decors: DiviMall

Tarpaulin: printed by WilTech & layout: by Me

Invites: by Me

Thank you tags: by Me

The party will be on Sunday, May 10. I'm praying for "NO RAIN & LOTS OF GUESTS"

Photos of the party will be posted asap.

I want it badly!

2009-04-30T16:34:00.007+08:00

And I mean it! I want to learn how to make cupcakes for Seo's birthday! I have already asked lahat ng madaan kong may gumagawang cupcakes. And each would cost 35 php and above. May napagtanungan pa nga akong isa, one cupcake costs 65 php.. Mejo susyal naman syang bakeshop pero kahit na! Gusto ko ako pa ren ang gagawa. So frustrated nko nyan but since it's a bit late nren to try and venture into this kind of (ano ba tawag dito) trip lang naman sya. Alam nyo naman ako, pag hindi ko nakuha gusto ko hindi ako makakatulog! Literal yan mga sisters, as in whenever I forget something for example lyrics ng isang song or kung anong title ng song, hindi ko talaga kayang matulog. Kaya nga pag alam na ni Hubby na meron akong hindi maalalang title naman ng movie, mabaliw baliw na sya kakaisip. And worst itetext ko lahat ng kakilala kong makakatulong sa dilemma ko. Kahit dito sa bahay. may ma misplace lang na toy or any gamit hindi ko patatahimikin mga maids ko.. Hindi sila makakatulog hanggat hindi nila nahahanap yung pinapahanap ko. Hindi naman ako terror sa knila, may PLEASE naman yun pero windang nko nun talaga.

Hindi rin naman ako makakamura i know since I have to buy not just the ingredients but lahat ng kakailanganing materials..Kinukulit ko nga si EJ to buy me ung mixer, parang hindi ako sineseryoso, akala nya siguro nagloloko lang ako.. Ang hindi nya alam, nagtanong na ako sa isang baking school kung magkano ang tuition fee nila..HA!

Babalitaan ko kayo kapag na achieve ko na itong bagong "something" ko.. hay, i'm desperate!

I believe in Miracles!

2009-04-14T18:13:00.009+08:00

As you all know my Dad is diagnosed with Cancer. He is gaining strength again after 2 cycles of Chemotherapy. Dr. Marwin Manalo, dad's Oncologist halted the next cycles/sessions of his chemotherapy and he based that on my dad's latest CT Scan which by the way, gave us both positive and negative results. Positive because the cancer cells aren't spreading and negative because they weren't even shrinking. We have yet to experience the difficult side of dad's venture... I personally, prepared my whole self when that day comes. The day when he'd say " i'm not in the mood to eat", or "anak, dito na lang ako sa kama ayaw kong tumayo" or worst, " anak.. nahihirapan na ako". But as days go on and on, we see changes. Good changes. Like instead of losing weight, he is gaining again. Instead of being bedridden, he walks. He even water our plants. Now that his caregiver went home to Lucban for a while ( we all hope he comes back) he's used to having baths alone, i even bought him panghilod ng likod nya because he can't reach it daw. Ej and I also bought him anti slippery mat for both bathrooms. I can't monitor him every hour and i am guilty of that. I have a graveyard shift at the hospital, I come home at 7 in the morning, sleeps at 8 in the morning.. and wakes up at 11 still in the morning. And that's 3 hours of sleep for me. I am a victim of sleep deprivation I know. And once i am awake, I play with my kids or make my little Seo's invites for his upcoming birthday. It's really hard for me to check on my Dad so I do it every now and then but I make sure that'll be a quality time. I show him my love kahit sa simpleng tanong lang na " Dy, gusto mong halo-halo?". He'd always ask me why he has to wear mask and why he has to elevate his legs ( he has edema). Ang kulit-kulit ko daw, I always nag him about that. But he knows that me, nagging at him always is for his own good.And me, nagging just about anything means me, loving him.

The Oncologist talked about giving him rest for the next few months. Meaning no chemotherapy and linear radiation. Only Zometa for his bone mets. But we still have to talk it over with Dr. Cruz. So for the next few months, ganito na muna kami. We decided to go home in Lucban, Quezon his hometown. Aside from celebrating the Pahiyas Festival I know Dad wanted to see his siblings and Mom. And he always tells me that he'll mount "Kamay ni Hesus" (Grotto) and mag papaheal daw sya kay Fr. Faller.

Did I mention about my Dad's past life? I mean him being an Ex Seminarian? He was, until he met my Mom.. and got her pregnant..=) here's a photo so that you'd see how religious he was..and he is up to now.

Investiture

And what we are all happy about is that there are lots of people praying for my Dad. Not just ordinary people but lots of his friends who are Priests and Bishops. I believe in miracles, I really do..

Birthday Tags

2009-04-13T09:05:00.013+08:00

Backdrop

Entrance Tarpaulin

Nametag

I just found out Einstein's nationality..haha. Dapat lang naman na mag research since it's official,
Baby Einstein na ang theme sa birthday ni Seo.

Translation: Grüß dich means HELLO! Actually it's an informal "hello". Guten Tag is their formal way of saying hello.. Mas gusto ko lang pakinggan and i-ispell ang Grüß dich, so i chose it instead. While Ich heibe means My Name Is..

Thank You Card

For this naman, since Einstein is a serious type of person, some kinda serious din mga wordings nya. Same goes with the invitation, malalalalim naEnglish nilagay ko para "ala Einstein" and dating.