JustAboutAnything

The Beauty of Camiguin

2010-05-30T12:24:00.005+08:00

Way back in college, I dreamt of going to Camiguin. Cebu Pacific gave us the perfect opportunity when we were able to book ourselves a roudtrip ticket to Cagayan for only 300 pesos. It was a long wait, but well worth the trip.

Cagayan airport

We landed in Cagayan airport, where my husband's cousin picked us up at the airport and treated us to a nice dinner. He then checked us in a hotel. The following day, he picked us up from the hotel to go to his dad's office, had a Chinese buffet lunch and then off to Camiguin we went.

The view from the boath...Camiguin island

Going to the island

It was already night time when we arrived in the island. We checked in Jasmine by the Sea, and rented a motorcycle the following morning to tour the island.Camiguin is just 64 kms in circumference, you could really just tour the island in a day. Armed with a map given to us by the caretaker of the resort, we toured the island stopping whenever we see a tourist attraction.

The ride itself is a joy! To our right was the sea, and to our left was the picturesque Mt. Hibok-hibok. Not to mention that it was the first time that my husband and I had ridden in motorcycle together.A view by the resort

Stopping by to take a picture of the breathtaking scenery

Church ruins

Sto. Nino cold spring

Sunken cemetery

Ardent hotspring

Going to the white island

While the Camiguin mainland had black sand, the white island is a miracle in itself...it has amazing white sands

Camiguin island is a paradise. It's a must-see for every nature lover.

The Start of Summer: Tambuli Beach Resort

2010-03-22T09:54:00.008+08:00

We couldn't put up with the heat any longer. And the kids have been begging us to go somewhere cool and fun, a.k.a beach or pool so we decided to check out Tambuli Beach Resort.
It's a 30-minute drive from home. We didn't have to prepare early (like we do when we go out of town). That's the beauty of living in Cebu, everything is within reach.

We opted to stay in Tambuli West because it has several pools, of several sizes where the kids can just lounge and enjoy. However, they were preparing for a wedding reception there, thus they didn't have buffett. We went to Tambuli East for the buffet, and enjoyed the sand and the sea there as well. (Tambuli West does not have a nice shoreline, unlike the East.)
Entrace is PhP350, although PhP 300 is consumable. But if want to go for the buffet which is at PhP450, you have to shell out another Php150, but the food is really worth the price though.

I'm Going to Make it Work

2010-01-28T11:28:00.003+08:00

So....I started the new year on positive note. I claimed that I will accomplish the goals I've set for this year and kick some habits that are not helping get to where I want to get. Also, I said "Yes" to a life-altering offer. I know it would mean more office hours, more stress, more responsibilities, but I'm aiming for greater rewards. I'm in for greater things...

Rantings

2010-01-07T02:45:00.002+08:00

To be honest, I don't really know what I will write. I'm just trying to stick to my promise that I will be updating my blogsite every so often. I just wanted to ram into the keyboard and rant, rant and rant, even though I couldn't make out of what I'm saying. There are somethings about my work that I'm not allowed to share to the rest of the world due to confidentiality agreement so in as much as I want to blow up and vent out here, I couldn't. I almost got into trouble once because of doing that, and I'm not going to go that way again. But anyway, will just sleep coz I will be going back to the office in a few hours.

Cebu Pacific On Promo

2010-01-06T07:45:00.004+08:00

Cebu Pacific is having a seat sale again. They are giving 50% discount on all domestic and international flights. Buying period is between Jan 6 - 8, 2010, and travel period is between Feb 1 - April 30, 2010. If you have plans on travelling between these dates, I strongly suggest you take advantage of this promo. As for me, I have resolved to stay put and save up for my Hongkong trip although my heart is dying to go to Manila to see my brand-new nephew. Sigh!

Using my Belle De Jour Planner

2010-01-06T07:35:00.003+08:00

Since it's a new year, I've resolved to make sure that I update my blogsite regularly. It doesn't have to be on a daily basis, but to at least tend to it from time to time like I do with Cafe World, which I already given up on.

Speaking of resolutions, I also made a list of habits to break/start for this year and I am tracking my progress using the habit tracker in my Belle De Jour Planner, a gift I receive from Daddiyah. So far, I have only missed one habit, and has been able to follow through on the list that I made. Here's hoping I remain true to my resolutions.

2010-01-02T19:13:00.002+08:00

Another year has passed....another year to look forward to. The year 2009 has brought about a lot of wonderful memories to remember, great experiences to savor and although it was not entirely wonderful, it's been a year of learning, and beatiful in its entirety, a full color page in this book called life.

I am looking forward to the new year with delight, with excitement, with sheer anticipation. I will continue to believe that God will be faithful in His promises, and I will be confident that nothing will happen that is not in His plan for me. Above all, I will receive with an open heart all the blessings that God has in store for me.

May everyone of us welcome the new season of blessings, new season of promotion, new season of victory, new season of increase, new season of hope, and new season of peace.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!

I'm Mobile!

2009-12-20T18:40:00.003+08:00

i haven't been really religiously working on my site for sometime. no, i take that back. i haven't been really working on it at all. my friend has been encouraging me to set up a new one complete with host and domain, and i have been putting it off for sometime.

i guess i woul have to be a little more diligent now that i'm mobile. so yes, eds, we'll work on that domain soon...

Facebook to Blame

2009-10-24T16:32:00.004+08:00

It's weekend once again. The time of the week where I could spare a few minutes to tinker with the computer about non-work related stuff. Ok, I'm lying. I am usually in front of the computer almost everyday, even after work. It's just that I'm not really into blogging anymore, for the reason that Facebook has gotten the better part of me. hehehe

Reading updates from friends, seeing their pictures, watching videos and selling friends (in Friends for Sale) has taken me away from blogging. Instead of the broadcaster, I'm now more of a spectator. Instead of working my brains, I chose to be lazy.

Well, let's blame Facebook for that. =)

Life Goes On...

2009-10-24T06:09:00.012+08:00

A few years ago, a friend of mine told me these lines.

"Well, it was not a surprise that you are getting married ... it's a shocker!!! hehe ... well the persona that you projected to the public is one that is far far away from marriage-hood. You are independent, marriage is limiting. You are carefree, marriage is serious. You are adventurous, marriage is settling down. You dream of great things, marriage is compromise. That's why people were taken by surprise."

I didn't have the chance to dispute, refute or confirm what he told me. My reply, if I remember correctly was a smile. I didn't really understand what he meant by then. At that point in time, in the midst of my wedding preparations, I was too excited and too naive to know what I'm really getting into to. And now, almost five years into marriage, I think I now have the answers.

Well the persona that you projected to the public is one that is far far away from marriage-hood - everybody is not what he seems he is. In most cases, people surprise other people, in which, i'm not the only one =)

You are carefree, marriage is serious - I am carefree, and yes I can be serious, too. Just because a person is carefree doesn't mean that I don't take things seriously. The two doesn't necessarily contradict.

You are adventurous, marriage is settling down - When I tied the knot, my adventorous spirit didn't get tied down. A major part of me still wants to explore the world, and marriage has not kept me from doing that. Thankfully, I have found a partner who shares the same spirit.

You dream of great things, marriage is compromise - whether or not you are in marriage, compromise happens. You compromise at work, you compromise with your family, with friends and there are somethings you have to give up in favor of other things. Compromise does not happen exclusively in marriage. I may have compromised a lot of things in the beginning of my marriage, but, this I'm truly proud to say, that my husband has shown me all out support for the things that I dreamed of, and has selflessly encouraged me in my pursuit of greatness.

I can honestly say that I'm truly happy with what my marriage has brought me, and what life, in general, has given me. But it doesn't stop there. At 28, I've gone to places, I've conquered some of my fears, reached some goals, given up on some dreams, build new ones .... but it doesn't end there. There are still places to visit, goals to reach, dreams to conquer and adventures that are yet to be taken. But the most beautiful part is that I have someone to share these things with, and having two adorable miniatures of ourselves, is definitely a bonus.

I just turned 28. Another birthday, another year, another beginning...but it's the same journey. Life goes on...

Stuckli Beach in Badian

2009-08-31T13:30:00.005+08:00

Last May 2009, under the heat of the summer sun, we had an impromptu decision of beating off the humidity by going someplace cool and breezy.

We've heard about Stuckli Beach Resort in Badian and decided to check it out. Together with our colleagues, we headed northbound at 7am. We had a few stops to to get some supplies and arrived at the beach at around 11am. It shouldn't take that long actually except that the supposedly short stops took longer than usual. We had a hard time finding the place as it would appear that you are driving towards the middle of a mountain uphill, then we went downhill for a bit and discovered the beautiful stretch of white beach.

We didn't plan to go overnight, but because we got enchanted by the tranquility of the place, we decided to stay for the night.

For those of you who wants to get their contact number, here it is:

09273157259 and 2541057. Look for Rick.

The room rates are as follows:

ROOMS 1 and 2 (good for 2-3 persons) = P 1,000.00
ROOM 3 (A/C - good for 2-3 persons) = P 1,500.00
*HOUSE 1 and HOUSE 2 = P 2,000.00
**HOUSE 3 and HOUSE 4 = P 2,500.00
HUTS = P 500.00

DAY USE = Minus 50% of the Normal Rate
*Good for 6 persons with beds, electric fans, and toilet and bath.
**Good for 8 persons with beds, electric fans, and toilet and bath.
** For excess persons we charge P150.00 each.

Boracay: Return to Paradise

2009-08-29T16:04:00.007+08:00

When I left Boracay last year, I made a promise that I would be back the soonest that I can. Cebu Pacific presented me a very good opportunity last February, so I booked a flight for our anniversary on June.

Since we already tried staying in station 1, we decided to try station 2. Also, I've researched that station 2 has cheaper restaurants and resorts. It's also where Talipapa is located which is their wet market where they sell live seafood and you can have them cooked by the surrounding restos.

Unfortunately, June is not a very good season to go to Bora. It's habagat season which means it's so windy and rainy. We didn't even get to land in Caticlan due to heavy rainfall and zero visibility. We braved the turbulence on air and attempted twice to land in Caticlan, until the pilot decided to land in Kalibo instead.

It was raining so hard when we got to Bora. There were several re-routes before we got to the island, and to the strip of white beaches. We got off from the pedicab in Talipapa where we treaded the waters of Bora - the "baha" (flood) water, that is. hehehehe

Nevertheless, we enjoyed our stay there. We got to try the really great food at very affordable prices. I forgot the name of the resort we stayed in during our first night, although I know it's in station 2. We stayed Orchids Resort in station 3 on the 2nd and 3rd night. We originally planned to stay in different resorts each night but decided to settle in Orchids Resort because the place is great and affordable, and the staff are also very friendly.

Setting aside some of the unfortunate events, my 3rd visit to Bora is still superb. And again, I still don't want to leave the place. hehehehe...Hopefully, I could go back with a larger group, and tag my kids along.

My Boracay Experience

2009-08-27T11:34:00.008+08:00

Boracay has always been one of my dream destinations...Being a water-person, there's something about the beaches that draw me close. And since my first visit to Bora was not exactly an experience to highlight, I planned another visit, with my hubby this time.

To say that I was really prepared was an understatement. I purchased our plance tickets more than 4 months ahead. I filed for a leave from work 3 months ahead. And despite a client visit on the very day of my scheduled trip, I, the client services coordinator, escaped from the office for a much anticipated vacation.

We had an uneventful trip going there. We took a plane via Cebu Pacific and in less than two hours, arrived at our resort. I didn't make any reservation because I know that they shoot up resort prices when booked online. But I knew where to stay.

We checked in at Boracay Tourist Inn in station 1. It's not exactly beach front, but it's less than a minute-walk to the famous white beach. We got the deluxe room for only 1k (I negotiated a discount) for an off-peak rate. Not bad for the location and the amenities provided. Actually, I think it's already a very good deal. There room has a double bed, cable tv, hot and cold shower and a small refrigerator.

When the plan landed in Caticlan, my heart sank because the runway was wet and there was a drizzle. It was even raining when checked in to our rooms. We were already starving so immediately unpacked and changed into our swim wears and headed out to the beach line to look for a place to eat. When we hit the shorelines, lo and behold, the sun is out. God must have really loved me! hehehehehe

We went to the grocery store after lunch and bought a few essentials including a bottle of red wine and some cans of beer, as well as some chips. And then we proceeded to officially start our sun-baskings and photo shoot.

We were invited for a free dinner on our 2nd invite and was given a presentation about investing in realty shares. Naturally, we declined not because we don't want to, but because we can't afford...hehehehe....but the meal was good, and the best thing was that it was for free.

I also unexpectedly met a college friend who I haven't seen for a long time, Mutya, with her boyfriend who's visiting from the states. A few weeks later, when I was back in Cebu, Mutya informed us that she got engaged.

We went island-hopping on the 3rd day, which happens to be my birthday and had a su-tu-kil lunch at Puca beach.

On the mornings, we'd walk the shoreline, drop dead by the sand and enjoy the sun and the cool waters. What amazes me the most about Bora is that despite how blazing hot it is, the water so icy cool....paired with torquise waters and white sands...it was a perfect combination!!!

I the afternoon, we'd go to the soveiner shops to buy pasalubong for friends and family at home, then enjoy the sunset by the beach.

We had several night caps where we had to fortune of meeting the amazing firedancers.

I didn't want to leave Bora but I had to. When I did, I made a promise that I would be back. And indeed, I did. More stories in the next blog....

And I'm back in the game!!!

2009-08-27T11:24:00.002+08:00

For the longest time, I haven't been writing here. For the past 3 months, I didn't have internet connection, and that's truly my excuse. I realized that I could quite live without connection and be fine with it. However, another vacation is on the works which have led me to extensive research that I am planning to go to. I searched for information online at work and came across blogs that has inspired me to blog again. And so I'm back in the game.... =)

my not-so-nice Intosan experience

2009-05-30T07:34:00.004+08:00

My husband's cousin who is based in Malaysia went home for a short break mid-May and we headed out to prepare for our annual family outing. Due to a lack of time, we opted to go somewhere near since we will be bringing kids with us and we didn't want to have travel far tagging several kids ranging from 10-2 years old.

We decided to go to Intosan Water Park located in Danao. The place is indeed good, something that the kids will definitely love, with their water wade and kiddie slides and mushroom shower. The older kids also loved the slides and the bigger pool as well as the lazy river pool.

I'm not really a fan of pools. I would prefer to feel sand on my feet, with blue waves crashing against the shores, and a great sandcastle. But the place did impress me. Okay I admit, anything that pleases my kids would probably impress me. (LOL)

What I didn't like the place was their customer service. Some members of the family reserved the place for us and we forgot to verify whose name was there on the reservation. We gave a couple of names and we hit jackpot. They asked where's the person who did the reservation and we told she's on her way, along with the rest of the company. They told us we have to wait for that person since they can't allow us to take our reserved rooms. It would have been fine with me if they told us in a civilized manner. But they look at us as if we can't be trusted, and that we were fools to arrive ahead of the person listed under the reservation. I tried to show a little sarcasm and told them that we can't wait in the lobby with kids running around when we know that we have our reservation. Besides, isn't it enough that the we know the name of the person to which the rooms are registered?

Then come the payment time. They told us that we have to pay PhP120 each, even the kids. I gently reminded them of their website, that kids are supposed to be 50% discounted and kids shorter than the counter will have free entrance. They said that prices have changed. Then, I reminded them also that their website states breakfast for two is included for every room reserved. They said to not mind the website as it is not updated. My question is, why is the website not updated? We live in a technology-adept society and most of the information we gather, we get it from the internet. The least that an establishment could do is update the information in their website, because that's the easiest and cheapest form of advertisement these days, otherwise, we could accuse them of FALSE ADVERTISING.

We reserved 3 rooms for the night, and the 2 two rooms are next to each other. The other room is approximately 50 meters away, or probably a good 3 minute walk under the blazing heat of the summer sun. Now, who would want that? It was a hassle for us to get the group together, as well as getting stuff from the far-away room like towels, sunblocks, etc.

I checked the room next to the two adjacent rooms and found out that it was empty. I called the reception area and requested if we could move to that room since our third room is so far. They asked me to go the reception. When I got there, I explained our situation and they said they have to check if we have messed up the room since it would mean they have to clean up twice, and would mean extra work for them. I told them that the room was unused, we just placed our stuff there but we haven't messed up the bed or used anything in it as we proceeded to go to the other two rooms. They said they have to wait for a particular person to check the room. When they found a person who could check the room, they discussed among themselves if they should allow our request as it would mean extra work for them, and they were talking out loud as if i weren't there. I butted in and told them that if it's cleaning up they're worried about, it shouldn't be a concern because the room is clean. Then they said that it shouldn't be allowed at all. I told them that the reason that we're there is for us to get together, and how could we do that if our rooms are worlds apart. Then the lady at the counter said "Excuse me, ma'am ha! Lain baya ang name na naa sa reservation. Then kato nga person kay nag personal visit jud diri so kabalo sa location sa room." What the!!!?!?!?!?! I told them that it's not true. The person who made the reservation went to Jasmine Pension, in Capitol (their Cebu booking office) not here. Then, realizing that she was caught in a lie, she said that it was probably during the downpayment that the person went there personally. I told her that reservation and deposit were made at the same time. Caught in another lie, she had no choice but to send one of the attendant to check the room, who was very rude and impolite.

When they realized that the room is clean, and nothing at all was touched, they then proceeded to be so nice to us, telling us that the other room will be ready in a while and so on and so forth. I was already fuming mad, and I was near to tears in anger and I didn't have enough strength to even put up a poker face. I forgot all my manners and did not return the niceties.

My whole career revolved around customer service. I moved my way up the corporate ladder instilling the importance of pleasing the customers and satisfying their needs. I never forget the fact that my salary is paid for by our clients, whose businesses rely on the quality of customer service we provide to their customers. In my travels, I always take note of the level of customer service that an establishment provides, because, as always, I'd like to get the best value for my hard-earned money, and in most cases, it's not how nice the room, how great the food, or how nice the view that would make a person come back but how he was treated.

Intosan was a great place. I did have a good time with the great company I was with, and I have to admit that my kids loved their water park. But will I be going back? I doubt that. There are other places to go in Cebu. Far better places with far better services. False advertising and poor customer service (in this case, i'm not just talking about the lack of customer service, but the improper way of treating a paying customer)is something that I would not subject myself again, nor I would recommend to someone I know.

The management of Intosan resort should know that customer service is what keeps them apart from their competion. A good customer service is also the cheapest way of advertising because words travel, verbal or written, through internet or word of mouth. Well, at the end of the day, I still win, because even if I wasn't treated nicely, they won't get my business again and words will spread in the internet how bad their customer service is. Well, that should get them to update their website at least.

It's Been A While

2009-03-04T09:24:00.001+08:00

It's been a long while since I visited my site. I haven't done any updates. It's not that I lsot my interest in blogging. It's just that a lot of things have been screaming for my attention lately and I haven't got the time to do something else. A lot of things has happened to me I don't even know where to begin. Guess I just have to take one step at a time....

Give, and it will come back to you...

2009-01-03T08:10:00.000+08:00

When I went to Manila for a short vacation with my family late November of last year, my sister showed me the Belle de Jour planner in Powerbooks. She showed me the pages and the discount coupons and all the perks. I wanted to get one for myself but I thought it might be too early.

When I got back to Cebu, I realized we have to give our boss an early Christmas present because she would be leaving for Manila 1st week of December. So I went to Powerbooks at SM and bought her the BDJ planner. She was already on her way to the airport when she opened the package and was thoughtful enough to send an MMS letting us know that she loved it. In my heart, I knew I would love to have one, too.

When the package from Manila arrived on Dec 24, my sister Ats and I, rummaged through the boxes (like little kids, yeah) to look for our gifts and made guesses. Mine was a no-brainer. The moment I saw the rectangular box with my name written on the tag, I immediately exclaimed "A book!"

My sister Milona has a habit of giving out books for gifts. I can still clearly remember how happy
I was on Christmas of 2000 when she gave me “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens” as a gift, and how it has molded my life positively.

Opening of gifts came and I was so busy assisting my kids with their presents and trying to remember which gift came from whom so we could thank the person accordingly that I didn’t bother opening my gifts. Aldrich pulled me with him while so we could open our gifts together, and everybody stopped with what they’re doing when I loudly exclaimed “Wow, a Belle de Jour planner!”

And so this is my Christmas-present story….I promised Ate Mhil I’d blog about the best present I received this year and here it is. Thanks a bunch, te!

When Dreams Don't Come True

2008-12-15T17:20:00.000+08:00

Sometimes, life presents roadblocks and obstacles along the way that we don't have any choice left but to make a detour. It steers us away from our goal and from fulfilling a dream, and often wonder why things doesn't always go as planned.

Not all dreams are meant to come true. Let us not fool ourselves into thinking that anything is possible if we have a dream and the determination to achieve it. There is an even greater force that governs the universe, and we are powerless to control it. Our will may be strong, but there is a strong power that supercedes all else.

Sometimes, dreams don't come true. Not because there's a failure from our end, but simply because, it wasn't meant to be. God has given us the freedom to decide for ourselves how we want our lives to be. We make plans and we build dreams based on our own perspective on what will be good for us, but God, who sees the bigger picture and knows the future, knows better and wants to give only the best for us, even if it means crushing our dreams. Shattered dreams cause broken hearts and souls, but only then can God manifest His glorious power to heal us and to make us whole again.

So don't despair when things don't go according as planned. It may be painful to see our dreams scattered into pieces, but know and trust that God has something better in store for us. As Michael Scofield says, "Planning can only take you as far, after that, you've got to take a few leaps of faith." When you think that everything is falling apart, always remember that the best is yet to come.

Keep faith alive!

Smarty Borjie

2008-10-16T01:36:00.000+08:00

I was getting ready to sleep yesterday afternoon when Borjie came up to the computer, and started reading out letters from the keyboard. He would say "Letter A, mommy oh!" or "Letter E, mommy oh!". From where I am, it looks to me that he was pointing at the correct position of the letters in the keyboard, so I got up to see for myself. I was amazed that he actually had them right. We started reading out the letters from the keyboard, and inspired by his interest, we went to Starfall.com to study further.

From there, he was able to read out to me the letters of the alphabet and the words under it. What surprised me more is he actually knows how to click on them using the mouse. Looking carefully at the cursor on the screen, he would navigate the mouse with this hand and when he sees that the cursor is pointing directly at the letter, he would then click on it. Sometimes, he loses the pointer and then I would guide him into seeing it, and then he brushes my hand away. He even knows to click on the arrow to move on to the next page. And then he moves on the to the next letter and the words starting with it.

There was even a particular folder in the desktop where he said "letter "f" mommy, oh! and at one point, moving the mouse around, he pointed at the "x" button of the window and said "awa, x!"

I was in trance wathcing my little boy. I never knew of a 3-year old kid who can navigate the internet. His interest and attention span was more than what is common for his age. I was getting tired and sleepy already studying with him so I told him that the next letter will be the last letter. He argued and say "wala pa gani "Y", and then added "sleep nalang, Mommy, kabalo naman ko." *sigh*...either kids these days grow up so fast, or i am ljust lagging behind...

I Could Not Ask for More

2008-10-13T16:13:00.000+08:00

i could not ask for more - Sarah Evans

I Could Not Ask for More

2008-10-13T13:32:00.002+08:00

i could not ask for more - Sarah Evans

What Life Has Given Me

2008-10-11T09:30:00.000+08:00

Two days ago, I was in one of the world's most beautiful places, basking under the warmth of the sun, enjoying the cool waters and sandy beaches of Boracay, in the arms of no less than my favorite person on earth - my husband. What better way to celebrate my birthday.

I am twenty-seven this year, and although I know I don't look it, I sure feel that I am actually older (and hopefully wiser). Life has given me so many experiences that has enriched me as a person (even if not financially) and I can't thank God enough for how He has been so faithful to me over the years.

While most people my age are probably struggling through quarter-life crisis, I'd like to believe that at this stage of my life, I know exactly where I am and where I want to get to. Life has given me a better perspective of things and I have decided on the what directions I'd like to take.

I don't feel the void and the emptiness that a lot of people my age are going through. I have my hands full raising my kids, weaving a happy marriage and establishing a career. And despite the rush and overwhelming load of things to do, I feel fulfilled.

God has given me the kind of job that I imagined doing when I joined the industry that I'm in. He has given me a husband so kind, patient and so understanding, the kind of man I've been dreaming about since I was a teener. He has given me beautiful, smart and high-spirited kids, not to mention affectionate and sweet.

They say that life gives to you what you have given to it. But this was not true to me. Life has given me more that what I have given to it - in fact, even more than what I was willing to give. By earthly standards, it may be injustice, but by heaven's standard, it's called grace.

Life has given me so much to celebrate about, so much to be grateful for. God has shown to me an outpour of His love, with blessings overflowing, in leaps and bounds. And the most beautiful gift of all is the fact the life has given me this early what most people take a lifetime to find - a happy family.

After the Happily Ever After

2008-10-11T08:56:00.001+08:00

Most of the fairy tales I've read ends with the wedding, with the bride and groom and sealing their love with a kiss. What most people don't realize that it is actually the start of a new story, a more interesting plot. The day after the "happily ever after" is actually far more worth looking into, because it is when reality sinks in.

You'll have to come to terms with the fact that you'll have to wake up with the same person every morning, that you have to deal with his snoring every night and you have to pick up after the person's mess scattered anywhere in the bedroom. It's when you realize that your space is not actually your space, but it's shared. You time is no longer yours. When your friends ask you out for a gimik, you have to remember to call the other person to at least inform him/her of your whereabouts. Your life isn't yours alone anymore.

But the far more better side of the deal is that, you have someone to share everything with. And I mean everything. You have someone to celebrate your victories with, and someone to cry together with. Someone can always take the blow when you want to vent out your anger, and you'll know that he'll love you anyway. When you're trapped into commiting into something you don't want to get into, you can always say "Let me consult my better half".

After the wedding, there will be twists and turns, highs and lows, and everything in between. You'll just have to remember that no matter where the journey takes you, and where the story leads, always be reminded to stick to each other, to always make the most of every situation and to always have fun.

I want to live my marriage in a way that my children and grandchildren will remember us and say "They really did live happily ever after." And today, almost four years into marriage, we never stopped exerting the effort to make our marriage as magical as it could possibly be. We don't aim to make it to the pages of "Once upon a time..." but what we want to do is create a memory for the generation after us as to what should really happen after the "happily ever after."

Married Again

2008-10-05T17:57:00.001+08:00

I lost my wedding ring way back when I was still in training in Convergys which was a little more than a couple of y

ears ago. I've put off buying a new ring because I didn't really see the necessity of having one. Wearing a ring is not the be all and end all of being married. I don't necessarily see it as a symbol of unending love, but more of an indication of your marital status.

When I was in training for Quality, my trainer, John Pham refused to believe I am married. He lied about his age to us and he thought I was turning the table against him. He looked at my finger and saw no wedding ring. He refused to believe until I showed him pictures of my kids and my husband.

So to put an end to people's endless skepticism to my real civil status, and to lessen the shock when they see me with my kids, Aldrich and I got us a new set of wedding rings. I'm married - again.

Discontentment

2008-09-26T03:11:00.000+08:00

I've been following on Pastor Les' series "Lo$t" for 2 Sundays now. He actually started 4 Sundays ago but since I wasn't able to go to the first two, I have to contend myself with his recap every start of his message.

This Sunday, he talked about discontentment. He said that one of the reasons why we find ourselves financially lost because society wants to make us feel that we don't have enough, thus creating a need to want more.

I've been wanting to get a new cellphone for sometime. I have tried reasoning that it was someting I could actually afford. I have convinced myself that it's something that I need to reward myself with, considering that I worked hard enough to earn me two promotions in 7 months.

But you see, this is something that I don't need. My cellphone is still fully functional, and it's not even outdated. Pastor Les made an excellent analogy between these material cravings and hunger. We eat when we're hungry and we get satisfied, but 4 hour tops, and we get hungry again.

When I got my cellphone, I told myself that I don't think I would ever want another cellphone, and look where I am now? Hungry again for another one.

Bottom line is, we need to be careful for some discontentments we have that may gear us towards being financially lost. It may not be the same for everybody. For some, it may be something else. The key is to make a careful evaluation of what is a need and what is a want, and to have enough discipline to live within our means.

Why I write about my marriage...

2008-09-16T11:45:00.000+08:00

I don't write about my marriage to brag about it. True, I want to show people how happy I am with the path I've chosen. But more importantly, I write about my marriage to inspire others to BELIEVE.

I once was a skeptic and belonged to the other side of the fence. Having seen to many failed relationships (not from first-hand experience thouh) and broken marriages, I've come to conclude that love is merely a fabrication. I've seen enough women weep and bleed over relationships that didn't turn out too well and I vowed to myself that I won't ever be a victim.

I've closed my heart to the possibility of romance and resigned to keep it at that until someone came along and turned everything upside down (and then right sight up again). The love and dedication given to me by that person was overwhelming and too good to be true. But it was true. It was pure. It was magical.

I thank God for that person because he opened doors of possibilities for me. He made me believe in love and commitment. And most importantly, he prepared my heart to welcome the one big love that was bound to come my way - my husband. The one person who was there for me right from the start - patiently waiting, silently pursuing, and never giving up.

I write about my marriage in the hope for more people to have more faith in love. I want people to believe in relationships. I want to inspire people to believe that happy marriages can exist, that relationships can work out, if you're willing to put enough dedication to work at it, and have faith in each other. I want people to realize that love may have the power to make life miserable, but it can also make life magical beyond words.

Hebrews 11:40

2008-09-14T14:25:00.000+08:00

Sometimes, we get so caught with executing our own plans that we fail to consult the one supreme being who dictates everything in our lives. Because God had allowed us so much freedom to decide on our own, we make plans that are not really aligned to His plans for us, because the lure of material gain is too strong to resist.

I fell for this trap, and I was thankful that not much energy and time was spent planning and working out on what would have been a deviation to God's design for my family. Somehow, God has still guided me and sent me a gentle nudge to re-examine my priorities before things got out of hand.

Initially, I was disheartened when I found out that my husband would not qualify to work abroad due to his medical condition. But God had enlightened my mind and made me realize that He has better things in store for me and my family. It was never His design for a married couple and for the family to be apart from each other for a long time. Aldrich and I always knew this in our hearts, but an opportunity came that we thought was good, only to find out later that it was a tempation that could potentially break our family apart.

On the surface, it would seem that we lost a good opportunity. But His ways are not our ways, and for as long as we continue to trust Him and His will, and for as long as we are willing to obey His words, there is nothing that He couldn't and wouldn't do for us. We may experience setbacks, but trust that the best is yet to come.

"God had planned something together for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect." Hebrews 11:40

Perceptions

2008-09-14T13:47:00.000+08:00

As I go through life, I've learned to not always believe everything I heard, feel or see at first glance.

I've come to realize that there are more to people, things and situations than what meets the eye. Life has taught and shown me a lot of ironies that I wouln't have believed had I not known better.

There are people who'd appear tough and confident but are really nervous inside.

Someone who speaks freely about sex and intimacy may actually be ineperienced where sex is concerned.

A person who seems financially secure may be buried with credit card debt.

There is someone who appears to be naive and innocent, but may not exactly be your next-door virgin.

Some others who appear to be shy and timid may actually be secure enough of themselves that they don't find the need to belong and to socialize.

I know of some people who earn 6-digit salaries but are actually scouting around for loans to pay off debts.

The man beside you who shines in all his masculinity may actually be desiring the masculinity of the guy accross the table.

A person who openly says he doesn't want commitment actually desires of settling down but wants to make sure he doesn't get hurt.

A rebellious person wishes to have someone in his life who can tame him and make him submit.

A person who speaks articulately, and critizes other people's grammar, couldn't get his subject and verb agree when blogging.

On the other hand, you may actually find yourself amused and enlightened reading the blog of someone you know can't get his words out when speaking.

Well, these are just some of the ironies that I'm sure a lot of us can relate to, or at least can identify with. And I'm pretty certain that you can create a list of your own.

So don't believe everything you hear and see. I know of someone who emphasized the words "Perception is everything". This person, who once trained me and my peers for the job that I used to do, and whom we thought was indispensable, being the very foundation of the principles we go by in our job, was fired by the company because apparently, he's not needed anymore. Yes, perception is everything. But it is exactly what it is, just a perception.

10% off - anyone?

2008-09-05T08:03:00.000+08:00

She's quite a handful...and so I'm selling her...any takers? hehehe

...but of course I'm just joking! hehehe

Taking the Likes of Joker Seriously

2008-08-26T10:26:00.001+08:00

On weekends, I open my eyes in the morning and Borjie greets me with a smile and a sweet “Good morning, Mommy!’ He then asks me if I want to eat rice and invites me to come downstairs. When I am eating, he gets a glass of water and places it on the table.

When it’s workday, Borjie gets into the room and check if the AC is on. He then goes, outside, peeks through the door before closing it, and says, “Mag rest na ka Mommy ha, mag work pa ka unya.” When night falls, he goes inside the room and, lays down by my side closely and says “Good morning na Mommy” as signal for me to start my day, which is actually a night. He then watches me get ready for work, and when I go down the stairs, my sandals will be waiting for me at our doorstep, prepared by my little boy.

I could not emphasize enough the importance of a good and healthy marriage. How a husband treats his wife will be noted and mirrored by the children. I’m sure my 3-year old Borjie would not have understood care and affection if it was not something that he saw from his dad.

One of the highlights of my visit to Manila was my chance to attend a marriage seminar conducted by Victory Church, and speakers emphasized the role of healthy marriages in the society. It is through healthy marriages that we produce healthy families, with healthy children contributing to a healthy society. In most cases, the deviants of our society come from broken or dysfunctional families, as in the case of Joker in Batman. Well, yeah, I know Batman is a fiction, but the underlying truth to that is that most of those we consider being black sheep in our society are usually those who lacked the emotional support and nurturing from their parents.

I never forget to thank God for giving me healthy and emotionally secure children. But more than anything else, I thank God for giving me a husband who shares my vision of creating a happy home with a hope of contributing to a better world.

Some moments I want to freeze time...

2008-08-13T13:22:00.000+08:00

Thank You, Dad

2008-08-12T10:51:00.001+08:00

For allowing me to take the weekend off by flying to Manila and have female bonding with my sisters...

For allowing me to go on frantic shopping spree causing so much dent on our savings...

For taking extra care of the kids while I was away...

For patiently waiting for hours to pick me up when my flight was delayed...

For being patient when I fail to answer your calls and text messages because I always forget to bring my phone...

For the wonderful very late dinner that we had at the restaurant I really missed when I got back...

For being the wonderful you....

Thank you.....

Patience is a Virtue

2008-07-25T09:14:00.002+08:00

My blog has been several months old now, and the only time I made real money was when I signed up for PayPerPost. I know I have not been as diligent as I should be in signing up for paid posts and I really don't have that much patience in waiting and searching and everything that goes with it.

I am encouraged by how my friends earned from blogging and I want to go to that direction as well. I now have internet connection at home so I don't have an excuse not to make it. I have all the necessary resources, I just don't have the patience. Like they all say, "Patience is a Virtue" - that I must learn. :)

On Marriage

2008-07-23T13:57:00.000+08:00

How does one define a good marriage? What makes a marriage a good one? I claim to be no expert, and like I always say, I don’t have a perfect marriage, not even close to being one. But is my marriage a good one?

I prefer to call it beautiful, and I love everything in it – the good, the bad, the happy moments and the sad. What I love about it is not how well we get along, but how we manage to reconcile the little and big differences we have. Sometimes, I get so mad and upset at him, but I love how the realization dawns on me that he will always be one single person I could never get tired of loving. I love how, no matter how long and how hard we argue over some things, we come up with a compromise and strike a deal between us. And I love that now matter how badly I want to scream and raise my voice at him during arguments, I’d still want to whisper sweet nothings in his ear at night.

My marriage may not exactly be a good one. But it’s a happy one. Not all marriage can be good. But what’s more beautiful about marriage is that every couple has the power to weave it into a wonderful tale of love that is uniquely beautiful as the other.

The Road That Was Chosen

2008-07-23T00:53:00.003+08:00

Some people wonder what could have awaited them in the road not chosen, while some other try to postpone choosing some major inevitable decisions in their lives. Me? I revel and celebrate everyday for the choices I made that have led me to where I am now.

Sometimes, I also think about what I have missed to do. I could have gotten a degree. Perhaps went to law school. Or maybe I could be well way ahead of the corporate ladder. Maybe, I could have travelled across continents or I could be any of those characters that have starred in my daydreams when I was younger.

But marriage has kept me from being all or any of these. And I completely understand why people are afraid to plunge into this next level commitment. We are a new generation of empowered women who believes that our destination should not necessarily be confined into building a home. We believe that the world is ours to conquer, and that our possibilities are limitless. And so we think, why get tied down when we can be free to explore the world?

As a new breed of women, we are more aware of our rights and we are free to explore our options. We make sure that are our eyes our both wide open in every endeavor that we take into, be it a career venture or a romantic relationship. And while I’d like to think that I belong to this generation, I also believe that sometimes, one has to close her eyes and live in blind faith in order to be truly happy.

Do I sometimes wonder what could have been had I not marry at an early age? Honestly, sometimes I do. But I know that what could have been will never be as good as what is now and could never measure up to the beautiful life that the road that was chosen has brought me. Marriage is a choice – a choice I’m glad I made.

This will make you hungry....

2008-07-21T13:47:00.004+08:00

Copied this from Joy! I love food and I love to eat! So i grabbed this. Please feel free to grab this as well

.-START HERE
—Eaters: kathyrazzi kathycot buhaymisis whenmomspeaks kathycotcooks my precious niche just me.. eds edsmommylife Me,Myself+2 Le bric à brac de Cherie Chez Francine La Place de Cherie My Angels World, Life is Good and Beautiful, From This Side, JustAboutAnything ADD YOUR BLOG HERE!

1. Chicken sa McDo, Jollibee, or KFC? Crispylicious and Juicylicious Chicken Joy
2. Pepsi, Coke, or rootbeer? Definitely COKE
3. Greenwich, Pizza Hut, or Yellow Cab? Pizza Hut
4. Adobo, sinigang, or nilaga? SINIGANG...yum,yum,yum!
5. Beef, pork, or chicken? depends on how it's cooked
6. Starbucks, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, or Gloria Jean’s? I love Bo's Coffee
7. Cornflakes, Honey Stars, or Milo cereal? Koko Krunch
8. Goldilocks or Red Ribbon? Red Ribbon
9. Tokyo Tokyo, Teriyaki Boy or Rai Rai Ken?-Rai Rai Ken, although I also love Tokyo Tokyo
10. Take Out or Dine In? Dine- In—

END HERE —I want to know the yummy answers of Eds, Soreal, My PinkShoelace, Benay-yot, Momi Shar

Of Alphabets and Growling Bears

2008-07-21T10:51:00.001+08:00

My bestfriend Mars recommended a site for online tutorials for toddlers. I found it good and very helpful in teaching my 3-year old Borjie. So when he woke up this morning, I told him that we are going to study. He said that he doesn’t want to study with me as he wants to go to school. I told him he can’t go to school yet, but I will be his teacher for now. He was expecting that we will be grabbing some papers and pencil, but to his surprise, I open the computer. He insisted that he wants to get some papers and pencils, but I told him that since I’m the teacher, we’ll do it my way.

So we went to Starfall.com. I was surprised that Borjie can identify some of the letters of the alphabet, and has easily picked up the sounds of each. Zaira also took some noteworthy interest and has diligently mimicked the sounds. Everything was going well until the study showed a growling bear, and then everything went boring for Borjie. He keeps on asking me to repeat the part where the bear was growling. I tried to put his interest back on the topic at hand, but he wouldn’t hear any of it anymore and has kept on asking for the growling bear.

And so I have to end our session for now. I went to youtube.com and there his eyes feasted on the tigers, crocodiles and bears eating each other. These are the kind of stuff that my kid enjoys….*sigh*. And then it took me a lot of bribing before I was able to steal the computer away from him again.

Friday High

2008-07-18T16:06:00.002+08:00

Okay...I know I shouldn't be doing this. I should be catching up some sleep as I only have a few hours of sleep for the last few days. But it's Friday, and knowing that tonight will be last night to come to work for the week is like a shot of caffeine for me. Aside from that, my kids have been bothering me like crazy. They keep on banging on our bedroom door until I haveno choice but to open the door for them and let them in. Well, so much for rest....

And of course, the convenience and tempatation of having unlimited internet at home. The fact that a computer and internet connection is justa few feet away from by bed, and the urge to slam my fingers on the keyboard is a tempation I would love to indulge in....

And so for now, sleep will have to wait until the weekend...

First Day High

2008-07-17T12:03:00.001+08:00

My first day with my new role went well without complications. So there was a little confusion with my new role. I applied for Client Services Coordinator, but was informed that I got the Sales Coach position. While talking to my new boss, she realized she can maximize my talents and potentials better if she keeps me as Client Services Coordinator, and so I’ll be one. There’s no distinct line as to the roles actually, since we will still be under the Client Service Department, and our scope of responsibilities could be interchanged from time-to-time, so the name of the position should not be a big deal.

My new boss seems nice and pretty straight forward. I think she’s a very smart woman, very determined and goal-oriented, and has gone a long way at a young age of 27. She seems so organized and very open-minded, and I am pretty sure I would enjoy working with her.

It was a cool first day for me.

AWARDS

2008-07-17T11:33:00.006+08:00

Got this award from a fellow blogger Gail DeGuzman....it's really flattering to get this....I am tagging in turn Bena-yot, Momi Shar, MyPinkShoelace, Soreal, Edcel, Lisa, Marily, Prily

——————————————————–
Rule: Copy the entire list and add your name at the bottom. And tag at least 5 friends. (But you can tag as many as you like).Note: Please link the blog where you posted the tag We appreciate you linking all your blogs but make sure you post the tag in the blogs too.

Mommy Talks Aggie Shoots. Aggie Scraps All Kinds of Me Stuff The Salad Caper Winding Creek Circle Anorexic Queen Apple of Yan Ple YanPle Howell and Abie My Planet Purple WomenXplore Princess Bela My Happy Place I am Dzoi Cliktrik Life’s Simple Pleasures Coffee Table Conversations 100% Kelly My Colorful World Ramdom Thoughts Scribbles of My Life In This Game of Life The Shopaholic in Me Mommyhood and Me My Charmed Life My Joys Sassy Finds Celebrating Life Life is Peachy Belly, Baby and Beyond {BloggerHappy} {BerryScrappy} Me and Mine Creative in Me For the LOVE of Food Little Peanut Pea in a Pod Le bric à brac de Cherie Chez Francine La Place de Cherie Gail de Guzman I Mier

Quitting Quality

2008-07-16T21:55:00.002+08:00

I officially said goodbye to Quality last night. I had dinner with the team, together with our boss, and that's it. I was supposed to be on duty but my supervisor was kind enough to allow me to be on vacation leave so I could prepare myself and transition to my new role. It was a tough decision to leave the team but I have to move forward.

As I write this, I'm an hour away from starting my new career endeavor. I'm officially a Sales Coach today. Unlike when I joined Quality, when I was so excited, I am so nervous to come to work today. First, because I don't know what lies ahead. I don't even know my scope of responsibilities. I was offered a position that was different from what I applied for, and although it is under the same department, I was not given clear a clear over-view of how things are going to be. I am accepting this position in blind faith that I can be as effective and as efficient as I was as an evaluator. Wish me luck...

Miss Universe

2008-07-15T10:39:00.010+08:00

She only had to watch a beauty pageant once. The annual Miss Universe was aired yesterday morning, and while we were watching it, she starting wishing to be one.

BLOGGING

2008-07-15T10:15:00.005+08:00

During my younger years, stationaries were the "in" thing. A girl's treasures would compose of stationaries of different designs and colors, and she could trade the same design for another to expand her collection. And diaries made of scented papers embossed with flowers and hearts are a girl's bestfriend. Back then, diaries are to be kept safe in drawer, sealed with a tiny padlock, and the key shoul be carried with you anywhere, least anyone should read it.

But we know live in an electronic world. Gone are the days of stationaries and diaries. Young lovers will find no need for stationaries to exchange love notes, as more and more people would find text and email messages more convenient. Words that are supposed to be written and should be kept within the diary are now published online. The younger generations are bolder and more outspoken about what they think and what they feel. They are no longer afraid to voice out their thoughts, ideas and emotions for the whole world to read. We are now more assertive of our rights and secure enough of ourselves to say that our emotions, thoughts, ideas, feelings are valid, and we are not afraid to share it, not only for others to learn about it, but more importantly, for us to learn more about ourselves.

The world has changed. The earth has become smaller. Information has become just a click away. It no longer belongs to a privileged few who could afford volumes and volumes of encyclopedias. Knowledge can be obtained from the tip of our fingers.

People have different perspective of things that used to be unacceptable. Societal norms are not as important as our own personal conviction. We no longer need a newspaper nor we have to be broadcasters to be heard. We can freely speak about our ideas without having to wait for an editor to approve it.

Welcome to a bolder, freer generation. Welcome to online blogging.

The Prayer Series (Part 2)

2008-07-15T09:47:00.002+08:00

WaumbaLand, the name of the Sunday School Program of Quest (the church that we go to), requires the child to be free from any illness 24 hours prior to class. And because of that, I couldn't take Zaira to church with us. Borjie is at my in-law's house for his weekly sleepover, so Aldrich and I decided to take the afternoon service last Sunday.

Pastor Les continued on with his series on Prayer. The previous week, he talked about how important it is to have a quiet time with God, and to make prayer a private matter. This week, he talked about how to pray.

When we pray, we first should acknowledge to whom we are talking to. We are greatly privileged to be given the right to call Him "Father". It means that we should be establishing a relationship with Him, on a personal basis. It is important that we acknowledge Him for His greatness and divinity, that we glorify His name.

Second, we should remember to surrender our will. In Matthew 6: 10 it says "..thy will be done" It means that when we pray, we should be willing to allow God's plans for our lives to prevail, and not our will. And third, we must acknowledge our dependence on Him, on a day-to-day basis. We must always remember that there's nothing we could do without Him.

Prayer is not about our wants, our needs, our desires. God knows them before we even before we ask. What matters most about prayer is how we connect with our Lord and Savior.

Prince Caspian

2008-07-11T10:26:00.003+08:00

I wanted Borjie and Zaira's first movie to be something special. I wanted it to be memorable for them, as it will be for us parents. I was thinking of bringing them to theater together, as I don't want any one of them to be left behind (which will most likely be Zaira since she's the younger one) so we waited until Zaira is old enough to be admitted and mature enough to sit still in a theater environment.

Then came Prince Caspian, the second of the 7 series of Chronicles of Narnia. I loved this as a book. In fact, during my high school days, I had all 7 of the books, and God knows where they all are now (can't remember who borrowed them). Kinda reminds of the item in "Life's Litte Instruction Book" ..."as with money and books, lend only those you don't care to see again." Going back...the first sequel, which was "The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe" proved screen-worthy, so I vowed not to miss the next one.

So when Prince Caspian came out, we wasted no time in bringing the kids to the moviehouse. I prepared lots of pop corn and pork rind to keep them busy in case they get bored. Fortunately, they seemed to enjoy the movie. Borjie anxiously waited for the lion to come out (he seemed to have recognized that it was a sequel). Zaira got a little sleepy but Lucy's character, and the animals fascinated her enough to keep her awake.

I chose this movie to their first, not only because I love it, but also because I want them to look back one day and be proud that the first movie they watched had some Christian value in it.

Dental Visit

2008-07-11T10:19:00.003+08:00

Aldrich and I decided to finally make that long-delayed visit to the dentist. I called up the clinic to make the reservation, and by the time we got there, I was immediately ushered to the dentist chair (whatever it's called) It's been over a year since my last visit, and I barely remember how it was to have oral prophylaxis. And while sitting there, I am reminded of a thousand and one reason why I hate going to the dentist. It sure sucks having to keep your mouth open for almost an hour and I so hate the after-feel of it all.

Well, some things had to be done. Whether we like it or not...

My 3-year old Borjie

2008-07-09T11:24:00.000+08:00

He's every inch a kuya. He loves to play the role of a protective big brother. He defends his baby sister whenever someone tries to bully her and tease her. He loves dinosaurs and tigers and lions. He's a human rights advocate, as he insists his rights to quality time with us, his right to be bought with toys and clothes, and he scolds us if our voices and tempers raise higher than the normal.

My 2-year old Zaira

2008-07-09T11:19:00.000+08:00

She turned 2 last June 2, 2008. She never fails to amuse us with her dance moves and her giggles and her kikay ways. She insists that she's pretty and tells you she's not your friend if you don't agree. And of course, she insists that she takes after her mom. Does she?

OT-free weekend

2008-07-09T10:50:00.000+08:00

Last weekend was the first weekend in many weeks that I did not go OT. I was contemplating of rendering at least 4 hours OT to catch up with my evaluations. I need to complete as many as I can since I will be leaving the department a few days before the fiscal month is completed. I want my productivity to be raised as high as it can. Not that I need to prove something.

Well, it would be probably one of the few times that I could get to relax. I would be moving on to a new role in a different department and I may have to learn and unlearn several things, thus increasing the stress level. As per my current boss, "Prepare for more stress".

So instead of going to the office, I spent the weekend bonding with my family and kids, and sleeping till my eyes puffed. After all, I've got nothing else to prove in the Quality Department. What I need to prepare is to conquer Client Services.

I've Been Tagged

2008-07-08T19:15:00.000+08:00

Got this tag from MyPinkShoelace and I have to give it a try...It's been a while since I last do a tag...

What you are supposed to do…and please don’t spoil the fun…Click copy/paste, delete my answers, type in your answers and tag 4 people in your lists!

(A) Four places I go over and over:~ our room, Bantayan, church, mall
(B) Four people who e-mail me regularly:~ our facilities manager, my supervisor, my sister and my hubby
(C) Four of my favorite places to eat?~ Rai-rai ken, Pizza hut, Ila Puti and McDo
(D) Four places you’d rather be?~ Boracay, Paris, China, Hawaii
E) Four people I think will respond:~ Prily~ Bena - yot~ Soloflighted~ Mars
(F) Four TV shows I could watch over and over:~ Alias, Dawson's Creek, Ally McBeal, 24

Of Flowers and Surprises

2008-07-08T19:00:00.000+08:00

The moment I got to the office, my supervisor summoned me to her desk. I got a little scared and I thought, "Uh-oh, what did I do?" I was surprised to find a bouquet of roses on her desk and she told me it was for me.

My husband is never the romantic type. He is never the flowers and chocolates type, and he is not good with cooking up surprises. So I got the surprise of my life when I got those flowers from him. My officemates thought we probaby had a fight. And I told them, "No, it's our monthsary." To which they replied, "What?!?! You still celebrate monthsaries?"

Happy 49th monthsary, Daddiyah!

The Prayer Series (Part I)

2008-07-07T20:16:00.000+08:00

The whole household, together with my brother and his family went to church last Sunday. It was the first time in many years that we went to the same church together, since for the past weeks, we went to different churches, as my they ususally go to my sister's sending church, and Aldrich and I preferred to go to Quest since the kids enjoy the Sunday School there. Also, my youth pastor, who officiated our wedding, also serves there. Last Sunday, we all went to Quest.
Pastor Les talked about prayer. I've been a Christian for half my life and has served in several ministries. And he was right. I thought I know all I need to know about prayer, but I don't. The message has revealed several truths about prayer and I felt that all my life, I wasn't really praying, but merely stating my needs.
God knows our needs even before we pray for it. So why bother praying? Because it is through prayer that our relationship with Him deepens. That is why the Bible states the need to pray in private, because you can't establish a good relationship in public.
Because I live a busy life, I pray while on the run. In the cab, in the jeepney, sometimes in the restroom and even at times when I am waiting for something or someone. But the one point that Pastor Les stressed last Sunday was the importance of closing the door and praying in private. It's not about the quality or quantity of your words, but the connection God feels in your prayer that matters.
Aldrich and I are careful with our marriage. We make it a point to communicate regularly, and we go out on dates without the kids to maintain the kind of closeness that we have. And just like our human relationships, our relationship with God requires communicating with Him on a regular and private basis for it to flourish.
Last Sunday, Pastor Les started out a new series on prayer. If you wanna hear about it, you may come with me to church.

Convergys Cares

2008-07-07T19:20:00.001+08:00

Summer ended without a company summer party. But will Convergys let it happen? Of course not! Management got busy expanding the business, but that doesn't mean they forgot to give us the party we deserve. We had a late summer outing at Vistamar, and there, I got a change to meet Mark Nelson in person. Cool!

Here it is!

2008-07-07T19:08:00.000+08:00

I've put it off long enough. For a long time, I was undecided if we should have internet at the house. I reasoned that the time we spent at our home should be solely dedicated to spending quality time with the kids. But we also need to connect to the outside world, especially that my sisters are across the seas and we commuicate via email. It is also important to download some stuff that we think are useful, and of course, I have to update my blogsite as well.

Aldrich and I finally decided to install internet at the house. We found the need heavier than our reaso not to get one.

Prayer

2008-07-07T15:56:00.000+08:00

Pastor Les talked about prayer. I've been a Christian for half my life and has served in several ministries. And he was right. I thought I know all I need to know about prayer, but I don't. The message has revealed several truths about prayer and I felt that all my life, I wasn't really praying, but merely stating my needs.

God knows our needs even before we pray for it. So why bother praying? Because it is through prayer that our relationship with Him deepens. That is why the Bible states the need to pray in private, because you can't establish a good relationship in public.

Because I live a busy life, I pray while on the run. In the cab, in the jeepney, sometimes in the restroom and even at times when I am waiting for something or someone. But the one point that Pastor Les stressed last Sunday was the importance of closing the door and praying in private. It's not about the quality or quantity of your words, but the connection God feels in your prayer that matters.

Aldrich and I are careful with our marriage. We make it a point to communicate regularly, and we go out on dates without the kids to maintain the kind of closeness that we have. And just like our human relationships, our relationship with God requires communicating with Him on a regular and private basis for it to flourish.

Last Sunday, Pastor Les started out a new series on prayer. If you wanna hear about it, you may come with me to church.

PLANS

2008-06-26T04:37:00.002+08:00

I’m a planner by heart. I always plan ahead. I plan my week, my day and even how I spend my hour. I plan out and spread out my deliverables for the week, always giving allowance for possible distractions and changes.

I’ve planned my life. I planned to have a long engagement with someone before we tie the knot. I planned at what age to graduate, when to marry and when to have children, and at what spacing. I have a list of things to do in my lifetime, and a timetable as to when one should be checked.

I know that life doesn’t always go as planned. Incidentally, most of what I am and I have now are not results of my planning.

I didn’t plan to get engaged at 22, when we were barely two weeks in the relationship. I didn’t plan to marry at 23, 6 months after the proposal. I didn’t plan to get pregnant in between, especially half-way through the wedding preparations when I needed all the time and energy I have to prepare for my wedding. I didn’t plan to get pregnant again, when my first-born was only 3 months old.

No, my life didn’t go as I planned it. Incidentally, the most rewarding areas of my life right now are the results of the things I didn’t plan – my happy marriage, my two adorable kids, my beautiful family.

No, life doesn’t always go as planned. Sometime you have to let go of your control of things, so God can allow His plan for your life to push through. Because He knows what’s best for you.

What I learned from church....

2008-06-24T03:38:00.000+08:00

I went to church last Sunday in between my shift as I was working overtime for the weekend to increase our percentage of attainment. I was thinking of not going to church because I know I have a full schedule ahead, but I decided to give God what is due Him of my time.

I was so glad I came. The message spoke directly to my heart. The speaker reminded me to place my priorities where it should be – my family. According to him, we all cheat with our time, but the questions should be “where are we cheating?”, “who are we cheating?” and “who feels cheated?”. We should choose to cheat on the area that is of lesser importance.

I’ve been working long hours for the past few weeks due to heavy workload, and other special tasks assigned to me. Sure, I was given a “power of one” card from higher management in appreciation of my efforts, but that wasn’t enough for the time lost not spending it with my family. The message reminded me to honor my husband and my family with the time that is supposedly spent for them. Nine hours of work in the office should be enough to honor my job. The rest should be spent building life-long relationships with the people who matter the most.

The speaker ended the message with a challenge to trust God to fill up the gap that we probably will leave should we spend more time elsewhere than work. I guess I was relying too much on my humanly efforts to do all I can do, forgetting that there is a greater power who can magically make things happen for me.

The message, has more importantly taught me to rely less on my self, to follow God’s will in blind faith, and to leave room for God to work in my life.

It has, most importantly, renewed my strength through total surrender.

Happy DAD's Day!

2008-06-15T05:34:00.000+08:00

Happy Father's Day, Daddiyah! You have been and you will always be the most amazing Dad I know....love you, pwenty, pwenty, pwenty.....

OOOPPPPSSSS.....

2008-06-15T05:29:00.000+08:00

Sorry, guys.....I mistakenly imported my blogs from my blogger account here in multiply...I'm so sorry for flooding your inbox...

Training Mode

2008-06-05T06:43:00.001+08:00

I will have another LOB to support, so I will be on training mode starting tomorrow, until June 12...sigh! I will probably still work on my evals so I could have higher accomplishment for the month, but that will be done with overtime....sigh!

On the other hand, starting June 12, our senior associate for quality performance will be one training for a week, and I would have to fill in her shoes. Meaning, I will be doing her deliverables, making sure that operations is not hampered because of her absence. But that doesn't mean still that I will not work on my evaluations. I am still aiming a 100% completion, so that would mean I still have to render OT for the evaluations.

Less time for my kids and my family. But more opportunity for career growth and self-improvement.

BLOGGERWAVE

2008-06-03T23:35:00.000+08:00

My blogsite has been on deep slumber from some time. While going through Mars's website, I read about Bloggerwave. It's another opportunity to for us make money while doing what we love doing, which of course is writing. All you have to do is register and submit your blog, and they will answer you right away through your email. In some cases, it takes 2-3 days from them to reply. In my case, however, they replied within the same day I applied, which I think is amazing. So what are you guys waiting for? Let's all make money and join Bloggerwave.

SE w960

2008-06-03T09:19:00.001+08:00

My dream phone. I can't believe I wanted another high-end phone again especially that my phone isn't even a year old...sigh! It's not something that I need, so I guess I would just have to dream about it for now.

HOT

2008-05-31T23:15:00.001+08:00

Create Fake Magazine Covers with your own picture at MagMyPic.com

style

2008-05-31T22:58:00.001+08:00

Create Fake Magazine Covers with your own picture at MagMyPic.com

I love you more today than yesterday

2008-05-31T22:44:00.001+08:00

Create Fake Magazine Covers with your own picture at MagMyPic.com

My Beautiful Life

2008-05-29T03:52:00.000+08:00

I rest in the arms of my hero...

2008-05-29T03:12:00.001+08:00

A Holiday!

2008-05-29T03:09:00.000+08:00

My officemates are having a field day! The internet connection went down for a while and when it came back up, firewall was down! We all stopped whatever it is we're doing started opening youtube, friendster, multiply and all other blocked sites like crazy. WHEW!

Hammer or Ruler? Both!

2008-05-29T03:04:00.000+08:00

It's Been a While

2008-05-08T21:12:00.000+08:00

it's been a while since i logged on here. sorry if i havent' been updating the site. and sorry also for my links that i haven't visited yet. it's a hectic days at the office, as i don't have a permanent station, and the firewall is up and the proxies aren't working....*sigh

Getting There..A survey about commute

2008-05-02T14:26:00.000+08:00

Borjie's Invitation

2008-04-30T22:39:00.000+08:00

A Mom’s Nightmare

2008-04-29T17:28:00.000+08:00

Last Friday, I received a text message from my sister telling me that my baby is sick. A few minutes before that, my boss told me that the supposed to be one-hour meeting will be extended to two hours, so that means I wouldn’t be able to go home immediately. As he always waits for me after work, I told my husband to go home ahead of me to check on our baby girl. He called me as soon as he got home to inform me that Zaira is fine, so as not to worry me.
She was her usual bubbly self when I got home. The following day though, her fever spiked again. I had her take paracetamol which brought down the fever. I had to do some errands so I left her at home with the nanny. When we got home, we noticed that her cheeks were red, and there were rashes on her legs. We immediately packed a few things and brought her to the hospital. Her temperature recorded 39.2ºC, but the rashes were gone, except for the ones on her knees. The doctor told us that it could just be an allergic reaction to what she had probably eaten. They performed a CBC and sent us home, as they diagnosed that it could just be a viral infection.

I didn’t sleep through the night. I busied myself watching the last season of Alias. Zaira’s conditioned did improve. The fever had broken. I checked on her from time to time to make sure her temperature is just within the normal range. At 8 in the morning, just when I was about to sleep, her temperature went to 40.1ºC. I woke up Aldrich because we’re supposed to get the results of the CBC. He went back to the hospital and was advised to bring our baby back to the Emergency Room so the doctor can double-check, as her WBC count is higher than normal.

By the time Aldrich went home, the fever had broken down. We waited until lunch time, but Zaira seemed normal and ok again. We went to Aldrich’s grandmother’s house, as we usually do on Sundays. His relatives advised us not to have her admitted because her fever might just be due to her teething. We stayed there for a while waiting for her fever to spike again. After dinner, we noticed a rise in her temperature, so we immediately proceeded to Chong Hua Hospital. They still couldn’t find anything wrong with her. Zaira showed no signs of illness; she seemed very active and very healthy, except for the fever and high CBC count. They performed a urinalysis, but the result showed negative infection, so they sent us home again.

I tried to reason with them that if it’s dengue, it will not be detected on the first 3 days of fever. As of Sunday, her fever was just 3 days old. The CBC was performed on a Saturday, which means, her fever was just 2 days old when the test was administered. They assured me that it’s not dengue. If they see signs of possible dengue, they would let us go home. They convinced me that it might just be viral infection, and they sent us home with instructions to closely monitor my baby.

It was such a stressful weekend for us. I took an emergency leave from work on Monday so I could closely check on Zaira. Thank God the fever totally broke down and did not come back. I’m sure moms who read this could relate to the pressure and the nervousness I felt over my baby’s sickness. We never want to take any chances, when it comes to our children’s health and safety. I think a little paranoia wouldn’t hurt, especially, when it’s our children’s health at stake.

I’m just very thankful that it was nothing more than a fever. We’ve heard of several cases of dengue around the neighborhood, and of course, we wouldn’t want that to happen to our children. It was the first time that we brought Zaira to the hospital, and we’re glad that it didn’t have to reach admission. As always, it is very important to take precautionary measures. When it comes to our children’s health, our motto is always, “better safe than sorry”.

In Training - Again

2008-04-25T19:50:00.001+08:00

I'm on training again. For this particular Friday, we were not able to do evaluations, as we had training the whole day. I braced myself for the boredom, but to my surprise, I fuond myself enjoy the training. However, we will have a 2-hour meeting for today, and then I still have to mail in my weekly site feedback, which for now I couldn't do because I don't have access to Lotus in my station.

Good thing it's a Friday. I can take whatever unexpected tasks, as I will just seek comfort in the fact that tomorrow is Saturday, and I don't have to come in for work.

Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now.

TESTING

2008-04-24T20:44:00.000+08:00

I set-up my blogger account in a way that I can post blog through email. Let's see if this works.

Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now.

Blessed

2008-04-24T20:28:00.000+08:00

It doesn't surprise me when people are amazed to learn that I am already married. Their amazement grows when they find out that I have two adorable kids. People think I'm young, which makes it all the more amazing. I may have married young, I may have missed out on a lot of opportunities, but I will never trade what I have now for anything in the world. Life has given me the most wonderful blessing...a beautiful family.

$20 richer

2008-04-24T17:03:00.000+08:00

I got a confirmation from PayPerPost last Monday, that my post was finally approved, which means I am $20 richer. It was so wonderful to read, and while I was getting discouraged in this blogging endeavor, the email had given me encouragement and excitement. Thank you all for the hits and for visiting my site regularly!

Test

2008-04-24T16:38:00.000+08:00

This is a test blog. I tried checking if I can post a blog here, using my email. Well, I will know in a while. :)

Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now.

Relationships

2008-04-24T14:30:00.000+08:00

Blog Roll

2008-04-23T21:20:00.000+08:00

I was trying to experiment with the look of my site, unfortunately, my blog roll got erased. I have to build them up again. I'm so sorry for those persons that I exchanged links with. I promise I will create a new one and post it as soon as I can. As for now, I have to go because I'm 22 minutes late from my date with my hubby...sorry about that, guys...

David Cook

2008-04-23T15:23:00.000+08:00

I am not a fan of American Idol. My co-workers are crazy about it. I hear them talk about it for hours... the contestants, their performances, the comments of the judges (especially Simon's), who made it to the top 3, who were in the bottom 3, and who was evicted.

One night, while dining in our pantry, the show was being played on TV. I had to admit that I got quite interested in the show. I was impressed that Mariah Carey herself mentored the contestants. That night, they are to sing Mariah Carey's songs. I was a bit impressed with their performances, until it got to David Cook. Boy, I wasn't just impressed, I was crazy about him. He has an air of romance in his voice, and on his looks...he sang the song "You Will Always Be My Baby" so beautifully and so passionately I think it was even better than the original. From then on, I became his fan.

Tag of Twenty

2008-04-23T15:11:00.000+08:00

Here are the rules: Remove one (1) question from below and add in your personal question, make it a total of 20 questions, then tag eight (8) people in your list. List them out at the end of this post.

1. At what age do/did you wish to marry?
>>> Originally, 27....that should have been this year...but I'm married for 3 years now...

2. What is your pseudonym?
>>> mier - plain and simply...and unimaginative...hehehe
3. Have you ever shoplifted?
>>>no, never had the guts

4. Where is the place that you want to go the most?
>>>Paris

5. Which part of you that you hate the most?
>>>my impatience...

6. When you encounter a sad moment, what would you do?
>>>I pray...

7. What are you afraid to lose the most?
>>>my family

8. If you win $1 million, what would you do?
>>>go on a cruise...

9. What do you loved the most last year (2007)?
>>>i got a promotion...

10. List out 3 good points of the person who tagged you:
>>>Sexy
>>>Pretty
>>>Smart

11. How do you cope with boredom?
>>>read

12. Till now, what is the moment that you regret the most?
>>>can't think of one right now

13. Which type of person do you hate the most?
>>>liars, cheats, hypocrites...

14. What is your ambition?
>>> i live a simple and happy life.. i don't think i could ask for more...

15. If you had one wish what would you wish for?
>>>i can't decide right now...hehehe

16. It is already 2008, do you have a new year’s resolution?
>>> no.. i have goals though

17. What do you look forward to in 2008?
>>>travel...and another promotion...

18. If your life is a song, what title best fit it?
>>>the song is yet to be written...hehehe

19. What is your principle in life?
>>> to live life the best way you know how...

20) If there is one thing in life that you would undo, what would it be?
>>>> well, this is my question, but it doesn't mean i have to answer...hehehe

tagging wena, denzyl, mars, edcel, audrey

In Training

2008-04-18T00:55:00.000+08:00

I'm on a different schedule for today to attend a training that will be conducted by someone through a long distance conference call. I was actually thinking that it's going to be pretty boring, but I found myself so engrossed in the training. I actually thought this day would turn out bad for me, but to my surprise, I did enjoy this day. The training was rather interesting as we talked about troubleshooting over the phone, and how it is different from the chat. It was really informational.

I also thought that we will have a hard time completing our evaluations as we only have 4 hours to work on it, but I actually outdid myself and completed 10 evaluations. That's the number I accomplish in a normal given day, which means a complete 8 hours. It was a good thing because we are nearing the end of fiscal month, and we promised ourself that we will beat the deadline by a day. I sure hope we can complete it by tomorrow so we can have a lazy Monday next week.

Almost 3!

2008-04-16T17:36:00.000+08:00

My first-born son Borjie, will be turning 3 this coming May 6. Until now, we have not decided yet on the theme of the party. We had Mickey Mouse for his first party, then last year's was Spiderman. Now, I can't think of any theme for him for this yaer. He loves to watch all sorts of cartoon movies, but they are all outdated. There hasn't been any new releases for another cartoon icon. He loves dinosaurs, but not the cutie-barney type of dinosaurs. He likes them in action, growling, running, fighting and preying. I'm not sure if I could find stuff with dinosaurs on it to complement the theme.

We were actually thinking of not holding a party for him this year. We told him that instead of throwing a party, we'll buy him an new TV set and DVD player. But when the TV and DVD player came, we reminded him of our agreement about them being birthday gifts and no party. His reply? "Imo nalang na, Mommy. Mo-borrow lang ko. Mag-party lang ta." (You can have it, Mom. I'll just borrow from you. But I want my party" Smart, huh?

PIZZA HUT

2008-04-16T17:30:00.000+08:00

One of my favorite food stops would always be Pizza Hut. I just love their pizza, in fact I even have a Palm Card. For those of you who doesn't know, a Palm Card is like a loyalty card that you present to the cashier when you buy a regular or family size pizza, and you get another pizza of the same size for free! I also love their spaghetti and their caesar salad and their mushroom soup. These things never go unordered whenever I'm there.

Rai-Rai Ken

2008-04-16T17:27:00.000+08:00

When my company relocated to the office where we are now, I wasn't really paying attention to the fact the we have Rai Rai Ken at the building lobby. I wasn't really very fond of Japanese foods, as my previous experience with this type of cuisine consists of sushis and sashimis and raw fish or whatever it may be. Because I have some eating buddies who are very adventurous in eating new stuff, we tried out this restaurant. I was surprised at how good the food tastes, I found myself inviting them to go back from time to time. I tasted their spicy ramen and I know Aldrich just have to try it. I also checked on their chicken teriyaki and I was sure Aldrich would be crazy about it. And indeed I was true. He found the found really good, and wants to go back there, too.

AT LAST!

2008-04-15T18:52:00.000+08:00

Finally! I started my blogging with the intent to make money online. I waited patiently for a few weeks until my blog is old enough to meet the minimum requirements. I applied for PayPerPost two weeks ago and anxiously waited for their reply. I heard from some fellow bloggers that they usually reply in a matter of days, while some others say that it takes weeks. There were even some people who had to re-apply several times. I was losing hope when I got an email yesterday that my blog was finally approved. I was ecstatic because I braced myself for a declination of my blog and I was trying to get ready to re-apply but fortunately, I got approved. And now as I write this, I'm on my way to getting my $20! Isn't that amazing! I get paid for something that I love to be doing, and that is blogging. That means that I have extra money to spend exploring places I've never been to, so I have more things to share here in my blog. PayPerPost by the way is a site that pays you to blog. It's site for blog advertising

I am so grateful for the few people who really encouraged me to pursue this endeavor. Edcel was really very consistent in reminding to apply and how to go about doing it, I met a few frustrations along the way, but there were a lot of you guys who really kept me going. I am very thankful for the encouragements of friends. I am also very thankful to those people who are faithful in viewing my site on a regular basis. And of course, I am very grateful to PayPerPost for approving my blog immediately. Way to go, PayPerPost! You rock!

Weekend Domestication

2008-04-15T18:43:00.000+08:00

Our weekends are usually spent malling or going somewhere else, like the beach or the pool, or eating out to somewhere we haven't been to. Especially this summer, we carefully lined up our activities to make this year's summer a memorable one for my husband and me.

For this weekend, we decided to re-do the room. We purchased the promised TV and DVD player for the kids, and then we got ourselves a new computer table. We removed the old desk that Aldrich put in the room that served as his working table, and the computer table at the same time. We re-aranged the bed in a way that the previously two beds who were connected together are now set-apart, which means that the kids had to sleep on the other side of the room, apart from us. Aldrich thought that it will be best to train them as early as now to sleep independently. We placed the TV rack and the new computer table, and I was surprised at how neat and cozy the room looks now. My hubby added the finishing touches...more framed pictures on the wall.

I now look forward to going home everynight, with my new TV and new workstation. That's an add-on of course to the cuddles, kisses and shrieks of my two little darlings and the warm hugs of my husband.

CARDS

2008-04-09T14:32:00.000+08:00

To Go or Not To Go

2008-04-08T19:46:00.000+08:00

I dedicate this blog to a dear friend of mine who is at a crossroad. To go or not to go. I may not totally understand the whole story, nor do I know the would-be consequences of going, but this I know...You are never the type of person who wants to look back and wonder what could have been. If I know you right, you live life to the fullest, with passion, without fear of what tomorrow may bring. If you know in your heart that you really want to go, if you are sure that you will have a fabulous time by going, then by all means go. There's no guarantee that the thing you fear is gonna happen, and if does, it shouldn't make feel less a person, if anything, it should make you more of the person you really are - bold, courageous, passionate.

Rantings....

2008-04-04T18:07:00.000+08:00

Monday is once again declared as a holiday! It's so nice to think that I will be having another long weekend. I haven't had anything planned for the weekend yet except to stay at home and spend more time with the kids.

I wanted to do something out of the ordinary for the weekend. Like, go to some animal farm or some park with a mini zoo so the kids could see some live animals. I want them to experience a diversity of things while growing up, things that I have not experienced, having lived an urban lifestyle all my life. I don't know what difference it will bring them, but I guess it would help encrich them as a person.

Another thing that has been bothering me lately is whether to send Borjie to school this year or not. He was very insistent last year to go to school, but the interest has waned now. We didn't send him to school last year because he wasn't even two years old then when he asked us, but now that he's turning 3, we're seriously considering in enrolling him to a pre-school. I asked him several times if he already wants to go to school, but it looks like he's more interested now in watching DVDs than socializing. My hubby and I thought that he maybe too young to go to school. We are trying to inquire around some suitable pre-schools in case he shows interest by May or June so at least we could be ready, but for now, I guess we'll just buy him with a TV set and his own DVD player so he can watch educational kiddie shows, without messing on his dad's PC.

Ho-hum... I'm done for the day. I only did six evaluations. I have established a game plan, sort of a schedule of the agents I will evaluating, and doing extra evaluations today would ruin my game plan, so I'm sticking with my six for now. I'm not seeing any reason anyway why we couldn't meet our target, even at the pace we're going.

Well, maybe I guess I would have to sign off for the week. If you guys could notice that I am not as faithful in updating my site as I used to, it could be some to frustrations, and a lot of confusions that has been bugging me lately. Well, i'll tell you about it once I've cleared my mind, or when I can make any sense at all.

Cory Aquino

2008-04-01T19:56:00.000+08:00

My beloved country's ex-president is sick with colon cancer. Her family is pleading with the public to help pray for her recovery.

It's hard to imagine her sick. I've always imagined her to be the energetic person who is actively involved in the political arena even if her presidecy has been up. She has always been a political icon, whose words and political endorsements have so much influence on the masses. She has made the country proud by making it to the cover of Times magazine, and will always be remembered as the widow of the hero, the late Ninoy Aquino, and the woman who has toppled the dictatorship of the Marcos regimen.

Tonight, I will include her in my prayers. Hope you do the same.

Wondering

2008-04-01T19:53:00.001+08:00

I have already submitted an application for payperpost, but as of now, I still haven't gotten any response from them. I read from other bloggers that they receive a responsse from them in as fast as 2 days, but it has almost been a week but I still haven't received anything from them.

Sometimes I wonder if I should continue this. There are times when I get discouraged especially that I have a lot to learn about web designs and widgets, and all that stuff. I seriously doubt if I can really succeed in this kind of endeavor. But anyway, let's see if we get a response from them.

Contacts

2008-03-31T20:08:00.000+08:00

I broke my eye glasses a few weeks back. I'm nearsighted, so I still could go about my daily task without having to put it on, but I really have problem reading signboards from afar. Whenever I work at the compputer, my face has to be four inches away from the monitor to see clearly, and that strains my back. My eyesight is really bad that I couldn't make out people's faces 3 feet away. And I can't watch a movie without the specs on, otherwise I would not enjoy it.

I wanted to get another pair of glasses to replace the old one. But to be honest, I am sssooooo tired of wearing eyeglasses. I tried wearing contact lenses before but, also it was too much of a hassle for me to be having to put it on and then remove it at the end of the day.

Last Saturday, instead of buying another pair of eyeglasses, I decided to get a pair of disposable contacts. I guess I may just have to sacrifice a little for the sake of convenience, not to mention vanity. It feels a little weird but I guess I will adjust to it given some time. And also, I need to make sure that I remove it before sleeping (i used to wear it even when asleep because i was too lazy) because that's part of the deal. Aldrich initially didn't want me to wear contacts because he knows I'm too lazy to remove it, but I promised him that I will be diligent and consistent in removing it, so he agreed to buy me one.

The world is a little clearer now and more detailed. And I think I look prettier and younger without the specs perched atop my nose. I was feeling great but tired the Saturday afternoon when we went home, that I immediately fell asleep, still with my newly worn contacts on. Oooopppppssss....

BLOCKED

2008-03-31T19:59:00.000+08:00

The IT department of our office must have found out the rampant browsing of non-work related website that they have finally found a way to block all other non-work related sites, including ny site. It's so frustrating because I can't update my site as much as I want to, and I don't want to get an internet connection at home because I don't want to use up my hours at home tinkering with pc when I could have utilized this spare time bonding with the kids.

I may be a working mom, but I am a hands-on mom. Whenever I'm at home, my attentions is fully devoted to the children, and I leave all the household chores to the helper. I want to make them feel that even if I had to work, that shouldn't stop from being the best mom I could possibly be to them.

But I also love blogging. And it pains me that I couldn't do it as often as I want to. Especially now that I have applied for PayPerPost, I need to make sure that my site gets impressions. I'm considering of getting an internet connection at home but I'm scared of how will it affect my quality time with the kids, especially that both of them are so attached to me and wants my full attention. Sigh!

Missing Work

2008-03-27T15:55:00.000+08:00

I've been absent for two days from work. Initially, because my daughter was sick. She had fever, cough and colds and that I couldn't just leave the tending to the nanny. On the afternoon of that day, I also got asthma attack. Maybe it was due to stress and fatigue from taking care of my baby girl, as she wants to be carried the whole time, and she is already very heavy.

I went to the doctor yesterday as per my hubby's insistence. The doctor advised that I should be on bedrest so I can totally recover. She gave me antibiotics and medical certificate to justify my absences. I told her I couldn't miss work for another day as I already have a lot of things to do piled up in the office. She inssisted that I take another day to rest, but her insistence, as well as my hubby's pleas fell on deaf ears, because here I am today.

I am feeling surprisingly better now that I'm already in the office. The past two days, I felt so tired, a simple chore as chewing my food would wear me out. Now that I'm here, I still feel running out of breath from time to time, but I feel more energized, which scares me as I may already showing signs of workaholicism. The whole time that I was home, I kept thinking about my evaluations and the agents, and all the other important updates that I may have missed.

I pray to God that I will not reach a point that I will feel more alive in the office than in my home. I pray to God that I will still be able to prioritize my health over my work. The doctor was right when she said "Health is more important than your work"...I always knew she was right, but I still can't help thinking of the many evaluations that I need to do and to catch up on if I miss another day at work. And so here I am....feeling a little better....but a little scared of how things are turning out for me....

Just thinking....

2008-03-24T19:52:00.000+08:00

I heard from somewhere the saying, "Small people talk about other people. Average people talk about events. Big people talk about ideas."

I've been feeling more like the average person lately. I feel that I am not making sense at all with my blogging, and that I am merely narrating the events in my life. I'm not sharing my inputs, my thoughts, the lessons I learned, the perspective I've gained, the way I used to when I was still writing through my journals. I sometimes feel like there's no point in reading my blogs. It's like, well, yeah, right....you went to this place, this is what you did, your day went like this...so what? The underlying question should be, why are you writing this? what for?

It makes me wonder sometimes, why should people read my blog? What can they gain from doing so?

Maybe, I need to review my perspective. I need to remember why I am writing at all. I don't want to be just an average person who talks about the daily routines. I definitely don't want to be the person who talks about other people. I want to be the kind of person who inspires other people through her thoughts, through her ideas and ideals, through her perspective. I want to be someone who can make a difference in the lives others just by sharing what I think and how I see the world. I want to be the blogger who inspires people to love life, and to embrace every day's struggles with vigor and hope and to look out to the future with so much anticipation that life gets better as we grow older.

Circa La Playa

2008-03-24T19:29:00.000+08:00

I never heard of this resort before. My bestfriend went here for a team building and she recommended it to me. It's not yet very popular, that's why it's not so crowded yet making the place an ideal place for a family gathering. They actually only have one room for overnight. But they do have several open cottages, and a big open function room with videoke, and billiards table at the other side of the resort. They also have a big indoor badminton court, and I think they hold tournaments from time to time, as displayed on their bulletin.

I'm Back

2008-03-24T13:01:00.000+08:00

Hello everyone! Thanks for visiting my site even when i was away for some time. hehe

It's the first working day of the week after a long weekend, and the first working day of our fiscal month. I wanted to go on emergency leave today because my daughter had fever last night. It's a good thing the fever broke down this morning, and I was a feeling a little confident to leave her with her dad for now since my hubby is working on a night shift today.

I don't feel like working at all today. Well, I guess it's what people call a monday sickness. hehe. But I have to. We need to work on 12 evaluations for today so we won't be cramming by the near end of the week.

I wanted so much to write about my holy week already, but I guess I need to work first on my evaluations so I could write about it uninterrupted and not worrying about anything else. I already posted the pics in my multiply, but I want to have a more organized presentation here. hehehe. I promise I'll work on it before the shift ends.

Long Weekend

2008-03-19T18:32:00.000+08:00

Workday is almost over. No! Workweek is almost over. It will be a long weekend because of the Holy Week. We can enjoy the long weekend and not think about work for now because it's the end of the fiscal month and we were able to meet a 100% completion. Kudos to my team mates. Great team effort, guys!

My hubby and I originally planned to spend the Holy Week by the beach. Looks like we need a change of plan. I can't go to the beach with my new swimwears because I have my regular visitor. Shucks! Of all the days for it to arrive!

I promised myself I won't be touching the computer for the next 4 days. So that means, no blogging for me. No internet. This is the time to relax and recharge. To spend more time with thekids, to observe them more closely, and to cuddle all the time. That's my favorite part, the cuddling.