My Little "Big " Princess

Funny how time really flies so fast...... My Little Princess has grown big already who just turned four (4) yesterday. Hubby and I are just remisnicing how we managed to overcome the first couple of months/years caring for this little bundle of joy. Now we watch in awe as she sings Bahay Kubo and Leron Leron Sinto with Gusto ! In a few years , she'll grow up as a young lady and will have different concerns but in the mean time we try to enjoy every waking moment with her.

My Time....for an Hour

Today is the first day of my sked rest day for the week and I'm having a great time in front of my laptop, trying to set up my new "raket" by updating my multiply account....

More than anything else, I really enjoy this "My Time Hour...." meaning i get to drop the Mom/Partner Role on the Side for an hour or two so I can do things for myself. I know it may sound selfish but dont get me wrong, this "My Time" thing keeps me sane :)

An a few minutes my little princess will wake up from her Nap or Hubby will be up and about asking about all minute details in the household but for the meantime, let me explore the net and have a quiet time in front of my beloved laptop !!!!!

When Kids Get Sick ...

Yesterday when we got home from work, my little Princess was down with a slight fever.. so we wasted no time and tried to give her medicine which was really an extra challenge for me, her daddy and yaya bec she never liked drinking medicines. It took 3 adults (2 to hold her and 1 to give her meds using a dropper) to finally give her a small dose of paracetamol... But the whole night the fever was still on and off. I was really teary eyed while holding her and listen to her breathing as she slept in my arms and despite the temp, she never complained or whined , only when it was medicine time. All throughout, i was begging for the fever to go away or "just give it to mommy" to spare her from the illness. True, when kids get sick you would really hope and pray that whatever pain can just be passed on to the adult and let the little be in pink health....



its 8:40am and my little one is still sound asleep by my side ... her temp has gone down to a normal level but i'm not taking my chances and still keeping an eye . The good thing abt this is I get to spend the whole day with her ...

Hot Wheels....

We took Julia to the mall yesterday and to buy her girlie stuff however, it seems her mind was on something else... And No, we didnt' bother to buy the "hot wheels" coz they costs P10,000 and P15,000 respectively ..huhuhuh :(

Waiting for the Big One

A week ago we were caught unprepared by typhoon Ondoy.... before we know it, most of the houses were already submerged underwater and had no choice but to deal with the situation. Now, another typhoon looms the area and all we can do is hope and pray that it takes a different path to spare us from another "wet weekend".....

Just like any moms, i did my best to cover all the household stuff enough to survive until Monday just to be sure and tried to cover all the basses. Although one can never be prepared for the Big One , I believe nothing is impossible with the power of Prayer.... If you think about it, if there are 10Million Filipinos saying a special prayer to drive away typhoon Pepe.... then maybe , just maybe that will make Pepe go away and leave us Safe and sound...

After The Storm....

For 24 hours we witness the downpour of Storm Ondoy and placed the whole Metro Manila underwater. I am fortunate enough to have a home in a higher and stable location although the streets leading to my place is waist deep underwater. I was worried sick because Hubby is stuck in the office but at least I know he's safe and sound. And after watching the video clips in the news today, i couldnt help but be teary eyed and affected by others who were on their rooftops for hours, waiting for someone to rescue them. I know after Storm Ondoy, things will never be the same. I just hope we Filipinos will learn our lesson to take care of our environment so we wont have second servings of "ondoy's wrath..."

Just For the Money !

Amazed on how People can take advantage of others. The car conk out in the middle of Katipunan Flyover. Lo a& behold, wrecker comes to pull the car to the nearest gas station and asked Benjie P1900. Buti na lang bolero si Hubby and promised to pay her P1200 later in McDo Katips so she can pocket the money. Eventually she believed hubby and let him drive away.....

Keep the Pen Moving

Started writing again after a few years of silence.... and God knows how much i miss that feeling..... Funny thing is before i finally drafted my treatment I have been having dreams about by colleagues in ABS-CBN, people whom i havent seen for a couple of years so I took it as sign to finish my story and take the big leap. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I still have the writer's touch.

Connecting with old friends

So happy I found a connection to an old college friend whom i havent seen for almost 20 years now. He was my best buddy and confidante during my freshman year until we had to part ways to avoid problems with his lovelife.... Looking back now i'm sure we'll have a great time laughing about it. I remember the "asaran-kulitan" days, the long jeepney ride home from UST to QC, and the greasy food in the canteen during break time. Funny how good old memories start gushing through when you finally find a connection with old friends.

Welcome back Gochac !!!!

HOLDING ON

Felt bad things didnt work out with TABS buyer.... just when you thought everything is falling into place, a major glitch comes along the way...... I hope i can come up with something soon ... otherwise it may be too late....

CRUNCH TIME

Its a week before payday and everybody's seemed to be scrapping their barrels just to make ends meet.... I know how it feels because it seems i've been playing this game for ages now. Although most often than not, we barely make it , i have one important realization.... That every crunch time, the Lord's hand moves in mysterious way and helps us stretch things until we reach the finish line.... and prepare for the next race again

STRESSFULL WEEKEND

I hate it when you dont get to enjoy the weekend because of a very stressful event. You're so stressed that you tend to bark at anything and everything to get in your way... even the smallest things like what happened to me and hubby the past few days. We were so disappointed and angry about how dirty our enemies can play and had to shell out quite a sum of money just for piece of paper that "would give you temporary liberty" when in fact you were victimized by these bastards. But despite this unfortunate incident, we still manage to look at the bright side and thankful that the Good Lord Above never left our side... true we were out of pockets by a huge amount (thousands of pesos is no joke for hardworking people) but at least the problem came when we had the means to resolve it and we were given ample time to resolve it otherwise, we could be facing bigger obstacles to hurdle.

As our lawyer put it, expect dirty tricks like these to come out of the hat (although we are hoping this is the end of it) but as long as we have the Big Boss on our side and family and friends to help out, we are positive we can win this battle in flying colors....

Well, getting even is different story....

JOLOGS THEORY IN ACTION

This Afternoon the Jologs Theory was seen in action as I was able to Help a dear friend Tina find a reasonable OB for her upcoming delivery in a few weeks time thru the help of another friend Bora.... What's so interesting is they do not know each other and yet they were able to connect thru me. As Tina mentioned in her text earlier, she already claimed that she's a friend of Bora so the OB can extend her generosity and kindness to her.... At the end of the day i was so happy for Tina because i knew somehow i was able to solve one problem for her and help her gain a new friend....

So continue to spread the love and touch other people's lives... Mabuhay ang mga Jologs !!!!

TABS... MY DREAM CAR

Yup... this was my dream car (well next to a red volkswagen) which i was able to purchase early 2000 from our daders... i really love this car... lots of memories as well (sad and happy ones at that !!!!) .... we are hoping someday i can hand this over to our little princess.... teach her how to drive this "little mean machine" the same way i taught his daddy almost four years ago....

INTO FB.....

Just like millions of Filipinos today, I too have been addicted to Facebook.... the reason why i haven't been blogging for the past months.... sure its fun to see what's happening with your friends and loved ones, and posting pix is a big plus but FB doesnt give you enough space to post your thoughts. And i have to admit, i never liked the games and surveys which i feel is just a waste of time and space. So after few months into FBing, I found my wayback into my blogsite .... so expect more writing... and of course more pix and more updates of this journey of mine :)

How to Eat Yakisoba ...

In this gloomy weather, my princess and I are stuck in the house with nothing much to do except eat yakisoba.... and guess what, she liked it !!!!!

Back To School

In the midst of our legal battle, our lawyer Rene (a good friend of my brothers ) have inspired me to consider taking up law especially when he commented " I should pursue law bec I can be one hell of lawyer".

Taking up law is one of my frustrations.... being a daddy's girl of one of the great corporate lawyers Philippines has ever had (daddy was former sec chairman during my highschool .days) I've imagined following his footsteps but along the way i got sidetracked and pursued writing instead. From time to time this idea crossed my mind but i usually brush it off because i need to earn a bachelor's degree first before i could step into the halls of college of law. So that would mean another year or two in college. And to make things more complicated, it was 14 years ago when i graduated from Miriam with an Associate Degree so i do need a lot of catching up to do.

Yesterday while browsing thru the net i toyed with the idea of going back to school thru open university and started doing research, and luckily came across with PUP's open university program. I wasted no time and gave them a call and guess what, i'm scheduled for an interview next week to evaluate my credentials. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that i can go back to school soon and who knows, a couple of years from now, i'll be signing off with a prefixed/title "ATTY before my name to boast!

JULIA IN THE RAIN

Took advantage of the rains and took Julia outside to experience a quick shower in the rain. At first she was uncomfortable and hesistant but once she got the hang of it, she was literraly singing in the rain.... Good thing her dad is in the office otherwise, we wont be able to enjoy this moment !

Sarap talagang maligo sa ulan :)

Wheel of Justice in the Philippines... A True Test of Patience

Last Monday, we drove 2 hours and a half for our NLRC hearing to submit our position paper which our lawyer and I drafted carefully and tediously. We couldnt wait to hand over said document to our "enemies" see the look on their face especially when they finally see the smart certification. But we were disappointed because after an hour of waiting, they didnt show up and had the hearing rescheduled two weeks after. So we had no choice but to drive back home for 2 more hours......

Indeed the justice system here in our country will truly test one's patience and pockets. We are hoping that this battle will end soon and victory will be ours !!!

JULIA IN JEANS

After 3 and a half years, we finally had my daughter wear jeans for the first time (courtesy of her Tita/Mommy Kathy ) . We usually have her wear skirts or shorts since its easier to put and more comfy. Benjie and I were so proud seeing her in maong and both commented ... " dalaga na ang prinsesa namin !!!"

THANKFUL FOR SMALL VICTORIES

For a year now, we've been carrying on a legal battle versus Benjie's former employer, 22nd St. Its been a long, tedious and not to mention expensive battle. (good thing our lawyer is a good friend of my bro and havent charged us anything yet) Admittedly, that one year has been one big roller coaster ride for both of us, mixture of emotions for both benjie and i ... there were days that we felt angry, disappointed and frustrated but we never stopped hoping and praying that one day this will end victoriously for us.... and we know slowly, we will get there.

Yesterday we scored another small victory when we finally received a Certification from Smart Legal Dept... a documentation we've been trying to secure for more than six months now. We tried several times requesting this from smart wireless center but we were always denied. Finally, as our last and desperated attempt, we tried to pull strings but asking all family and friends for people they know in the legal dept who could help us out. Luckily my sis in law Kathy had a friend who used to work for smart gave us the first lead...... And another schoolmate way back highschool days, Pam whom i havent seen or talk to for almost 20 years now gave us another lead.... Although we were not able to touch base with the people they referred, we were able to contact Ms Patti Aznar of legal department who was kind enough to assist us and finally issued us the much needed certification that will hopefully end our legal battle. For me, these are special angels sent by Above to help us out during these trying times. We wouldn't have gotten this vital document without the help of these friends.

I know its still a long way to go but now we are more confident that we can wrap up all the legal battles triumphantly and live a more quiet and secured life ahead....

And lastly.... God is really good.... in all ways, always !!!!!

PAYDAY TREAT

Last payday I did something for myself for a change... went to Taco Bell and decided to treat myself for working hard for couple of days. So I ordered their Mexican Pizza and cheesy potatoes for a quick merienda. Although i went a little overboard with my budget i left the resto with a smile and I promise that i should do this more often ... Reward myself for a job well done .

SPECIAL MOMS ...

Mother's Day have always been a big event for everybody and I dont blame them. For people close to me, they all know that my mom and I are like oil and water but over the years i have mellowed down especially when i became a mom as well. True, there's nothing like being a mom.... you have to be strong to overcome the challenges , yet you have to be gentle to show how much you love your offspring. Being a Mom is a full time job, no subs, no overtime pays or no VL but none the less, its the most rewarding job of all.

In my 36 years of existence, i am lucky enough to be touched by my "Special Moms" who have helped me become what I am today. These are the mothers who were there to guide me when I felt down and lost and never left my side.... and I offer this special day to them....

NANAY HERMIE AXALAN....

Who saw me grow up literally and figuratively along with her daughter, Ate Paz. Their family easily welcomed me in their household when i had problems in the homefront and when i came to their daughter crying in black and blue... (God that was almost 20 years ago!) I stayed with them for almost a month free of charge and later on moved to their apartments and still consider this abode my home for almost a decade now. Nanay have always been very understanding and supportive. To Nanay, thank you for giving me a home to stay with ...

TITA A

My Mother, My mentor.... i wouldn't have fulfilled my dream in seeing my name in the screen without the help of this remarkable lady. The Gabriella Silang of ABS CBN, she is always there whenever you need someone to lean on and need some sense to put in your head. Although she has her own battles to fight on her own, just call or text her and she'll always be there to be your "resbak". My discipline and writing skills are honed by this great writer and i thank her that.... nevermind the long and gruelling brainstorming sessions in her attic, the never ending arguements and crying sessions.... in the end it paid off. And although i am no longer active in the writing scene.... i still proud and happy that i grew up under her wing.

MS SHAI

This is my cool Mom and Mentor. Ms Shai's gentle and loving ways have touched my heart and my life deeply. Just like Tita A, what i am right now as a Writer and as a person is a fushion of their influence and loving ways. My five year stint with ABS was full hardwork, laughter and happy memories because of these wonderful moms.

ATE ELLEN ...

My First EP.... unlike the Ms Shai and Tita A, Ate Ellen is the quiet and gentle Mom every daughter would love to have. Ever patient and understanding, she'll just smile or give out a gentle laughter when she's happy , or cry a tear or two whenever things dont go as planned. I've worked with her for almost 4 years in different shows and i have witnessed how loving and care Mom she is to her three beautiful daughters... I know Ate Ellen is going through a though time right now and i'm always saying a special prayer for her. I hope she'll have the best Mother's Day Celebration today because she truly Deserves it.

ATE SONIA CRISOSTOMO

One remarkable friend/lady i have known and i will be forever grateful for her overflowing love and generosity. She is always there for me during our struggling days as a writer. Through thick and thin, she was there. I just hope she's okay and i truly miss her.

TITA NILS
Although technically, she isn't a mom (yet !) but she's been like a mother to me and to all her pamangkins during our growing up years. She's the cool and understanding mom i had during my growing up years :)

ATE PAZ

My dear sister, friend, confidante, partner in crime (hehehe) .... technically now that she's a mom too, this day is also dedicated to you. I love you Ate Paz, and i'm looking forward to seeing you again so we can talk and have coffee until the wee hours of the morning.

Eight (8) Years After

Today marks a Special Day for Me and Benjie because it our 8th Year Anniversary. Well honestly, we were never into anniversaries , neither did we get a chance to celebrate it but nevertheless, i couldnt help but smile and be awed that we lasted this long and still going strong despite the obstacles and challenges. All my close friends know that our relationship is "not your ordinary love story" and admittedly the first couple of years were really shaky but we manage to survive and be strong. And with little Julia in the center of our lives, that makes the relationship more special.

Here Comes the Rain Again......

For people in the 80's era, you're familiar with this Song I'm sure... i usually sing a line or two whenever the rains (or should i say typhoons) invades the Phil Area of Responsibility as PAGASA would often say....

I never liked the rains coz it makes me sad.... i dont know why but there's something with the rains that make my day sad and gloomy especially now that i'm off for a couple of days, i dont have much choice but to stay home. my little princess and i cant even go out for short walks to the grocery...huhuhu.... so in the meantime, here we are stuck inside the house, doing barney marathon and wishing the rains would stop and just horsing around.....

let me end this blog with one of barney's popular song....

"Mr Sun... Sun.. Mr Golden sun... hiding behind the Tree ..
Wont you come down and shine... shine down on me... "

This is What Rest Day Is All About

Last weekend we got the chance to stay at home and enjoy our rest days with our little princess. This is what Benjie and I look forward to after working hard for five straight days

Kape at Pandesal.. the perfect breakfast

Yup, you read it right... this for me is one of the perfect breakfast, kape at pandesal . And i have to admit, i couldnt help but dip the pandesal in my coffee. You should try it sometimes ... its perfect !

Chicken Joy !!!

Yup, this is Julia's newest fave... everytime she sees chicken on the table (grilled or fried) she would always say Jollibee.... so last weekend we decided to give in to her desires and really had fun watching her munch the chicken away...

Get Together

Its been almost two decades since we last saw each other (HighSchool Graduation to be exact) so when we had a chance to get together for a dinner of fun and chicka, we gamely said yes. We had a lot of fun exchanging stories and tips.... and couldnt believe its been years since we were together. So when we parted ways we promised to keep in touch and see each other in a more regular basis.

Something to Look Forward To

The past few weeks, my hubby joined thousands of Filipinos trying their luck looking for a job. And if you follow the news, you know that everyday the unemployment rate gets bigger and bigger... Each day was a challenge... days when he comes home down and frustrated because you could almost feel that you're in until they give you the "thank you for applying speech."

But finally, after weeks of trying, hardwork, patience and deligence , he will now start working on Feb 3 in the same company i work for but on a different account. Both of us are proud, excited and at the same time a bit nervous. Its like starting a new school during your younger years. We are just thankful for this new beginning ....

And with this, we know good things are about to come our way... something to look forward to this year of the Ox :)

Yearender 2008,,,,, Part 2

The Year 2008 ended with simple celebration with family and friends..... here are some snapshots of said events.