curse???

I have a friend who is sick right now. She has been ill for over a year now and there is no cure in sight. We used to work together until she quit to run for public office in 2010. Her problems started upon her victory. She used to be healthy and very maarte. It's not something to be misconstrued because it is just how she is. But early last year, she had health problems that couldn't be diagnosed. She went from one hospital to another and is now getting chemotherapy. She lost all her hair, lost a lot of weight and is now just a shadow of her former self.

Around October last year, her father's cancer came back. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2006 but it went into remission after a year. They both alternated getting chemotherapy in St. Luke's until it was said that his father's cancer could no longer be treated. He died last week due to complications.

Last Christmas, her younger brother was admitted to the hospital after a stroke. He was able to recover but is now back in the hospital for kidney problems. And her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's last year as well.

A lot of people have been talking about their family being cursed or something. My friend was released from the hospital last July when an albularyo supposedly healed her. But because she didn't believe in it, she got worse instead. What makes the story complicated is that they sold a huge tract of land for P30 million. It was supposed to be a family property but her father got all the proceeds. So there really are questions as to the misfortune that is befalling her and her family. Her two brothers are unscathed, though. One is a politician while the other lives abroad. Others presume it must be related to their business or it's a case of jealousy.

I cannot say anything about it other than the fact that it is a very sad state of affairs. They may have money but they are struggling physically. My friend has another lump growing in her lungs again and her chemotherapy treatments are back again. It's just good luck her mother has Alzheimer's otherwise she's be devastated with the loss of her spouse.

I only pray that they'll have the strength to get over this stage in their lives and still have faith in Him up above.

nosebleed

As you may have surmised, my son is English-speaking. He doesn't understand you if you talk t him in the dialect although he follows some words such as tubig, among others. Because I am used to talking to him in English, I sometimes lapse into speaking English with other people.

Last night, I had dinner with my girlfriends and while we were talking, I asked one of them a question in English. And she says, did you forget I'm not you're son, you're giving me nosebleed. Hahaha! I said sorry, I forgot.

They are amazed that my son can speak English really well. One time, we were together and we were heading for home. The baby didn't want them to get in the car and he was screaming "those kids are getting in the car, I don't like them!" Of course, they had to grin and bear it. They had to explain to him they needed to ride with us because they had no vehicle. And the baby just ignored them although he did say goodbye when they left.

I know my son will learn Filipino and the vernacular in a few years but at least he knew English first. At least I can be sure he won't have problems with it in school. Math, on the other hand, is another concern.

strawberries

My mom has arrived and she brought strawberries from Baguio. I am not a fan of strawberries-never have been and never will be. She had both the fruit and preserves but they're not appealing at all. I ate one piece last night and have to admit, I barely finished it. I love fruits but strawberries, avocada and papaya belong to the "I don't eat that section". I eat papaya if it's been made into achara and avocado is purely for my hair and guacamole only.

The strawberries are nowhere in sight so my mom must be kept them in the fridge. I think only my father will consume those. Neither my brother or mother eat strawberries too. We are so provincial, right?

shopped!

Last Friday, the bf gave me time to shop while in the metropolis. We were waiting in Banawe for our car to be fixed (it was smoke belching really bad the night before) and I wanted to get shoes to match my dress. I wanted to go to SM Megamall because I wanted to shop at Forever 21. However, I dreaded the traffic and was contemplating Trinoma instead. It was still too far for my taste so I settled for SM Centerpoint in Santa Mesa. To say it was a disappointment was an understatement. There were no decent shops at all. I scoured high and low for a decent pair of shoes. I was looking for royal blue or hot pink pumps or wedge. I found a really cool pair in the department store but it was really painful to walk in. They always say no pain no gain but I have no plans of paying money and having to suffer walking. The only redeeming quality the mall had was Papemelroti. This is one of the best stores ever and I missed going there. Unfortunately, I had so little time. The bf called me and asked me to get back already. I said give me 20 minutes because I'm stuck in traffic. Hahaha! The truth is, I was still shopping!

sunday eats

It's Sunday and it's my cheat day. I usually eat ice cream, dessert and just about anything I don't normally eat during the week. This was my lunch today. I was in the mood for La Paz Batchoy and since the baby and I went to the mall early in the morning, I got this. It was delicious, paired with garlic bread. I bought the garlic bread because it smelled really good while I was in in the bakery.

After my Swedish massage, I bought chilidog from Burger Delights (similar to BigMak!). This cost only P26 but is really to die for. The hotdog is Tender Juicy and the chili is just hot enough.

I passed by some mangoes for sale and couldn't resist buying.

accident

On our way home, we chanced upon this accident in Aklan. I don't know where it is exactly but the accident really blew us. The bf always said these buses wouldn't fall down due to air suspension or something. But he was greatly mistaken.

*we used our phone's camera for this pictures because we were in a rush.

busy and tired

I'm sorry if I haven't blogged in a few days. I was busy with the baby and traveling with the bf. What with the mother being away for more than a week, I had my hands full. Plus, I still had to work. Anyway, I'm home and I'm trying to rest. But I have to go to a lot of places and do a lot of things today. I'm really racking my brains on how to fit everything in my schedule. I need to go to a wake, a post-wedding dinner and do the groceries. I already missed a wedding, hanging out with my girlfriends and lunch at my uncle's.

I need a massage and I'm getting one later after the baby sleeps and I have to go on some errands. I'll be back in a few...

bits of news

-My mom has gone away for work-related travel and won't be back till next week. She left us unprepared for meals! Hahaha! Our helper asks me what to cook and I tell to scrounge up stuff in the fridge. I have to go and buy stuff tomorrow or else we'll starve. There's only fish and meat left without any veggies,etc.

-The ex-bf that I said often calls me is back home. I forgot to mention that on the day I hung out with my girlfriends, someone mentioned he was home. That same night he called me up and we talked. Apparently, his gf cheated on him. Whatever. He passsed by the house last night just as I was heading out to have stuff printed. I didn't talk to him, by the way. He was cruising in his brand new motorcycle. Show-off! = )

-I am wondering how this will work (with my mom not around) because I will have to travel with the bf on Thursday. I am worried that my son will be very lonely. I told the bf to hold the travel till next week but he insists and won't go without me. At least my brother will be here to take the kids to school, otherwise my son will have to ride public transportation and he'll say the man took him to school. (he calls the driver man)

-My girlfriend's brother is getting married on Saturday but my friend didn't invite me personally. Instead, my other girlfriend is the one extending the invitation. Hahaha! I don't think I'm going!

-My dress isn't ready yet and the wedding I'll be going to is in a couple of weeks. I also have no shoes yet. Oh well, I'll probably end up wearing my old pair of gold shoes.

head cold

I hardly ever get sick. This is something to be proud of, I guess. But I really hate the fact that my sinus always acts up. Although it can be attributed to several factors, it's still a pain in the you-know-what. I am fine with all the sneezing but I cannot take the headache that comes with it.

Last night we were at the mall (as usual, it's Sunday!) and on the way home, I was feeling a bit tired. At home, I had a full-blown headache. I couldn't find any of my medication for headache so I took two sinusitis capsules instead. I couldn't sleep with the throbbing in my head and I was tempted to take Nyquil. I didn't though, I just forced myself to sleep. I awoke at about 4am because the rain was pounding so hard. I stood up to pee and lit a candle and I realized my head was still aching. I didn't mind it went back to sleep. The pain was gone in the morning but in the afternoon, it came back! I'm still debating whether to drink medicine again or just grin and bear it. I have been loading up on Vitamin C but I don't think it's working.

I guess part of the reason is the terrible summer heat. I was out and about with the bf at around 1.30pm going from an airconditioned vehicle out in the sun and back to the vehicle again. (after all, the city isn't air conditioned) It's probably why my head is complaining.

boring

There are times when I think my life is boring. I mean I think it's boring because I seldom do exciting things. Other than our travels the bf, my life is monotonous and simple. I wake up before 6am and exercise. Then I go home. I pray, eat breakfast, shower and work. During the day, the bf fetches me and we go downtown or the office to run errands and do business related stuff. I'm home usually by 4pm and I go back to work. By 6 or 7, I'm done working and then it's time for television and play time. By 9.30, I'm tucked in bed and heading off to slumberland.

That's what I do on a daily basis. It just changes during the weekend when Saturday means lunch at my uncle's house and Sunday and my day off from the bf. Sunday evenings, the family goes to the mall and eat out.

Last Friday night, I saw my sister pass by the house and I asked where she was headed. Apparently, she was going for videoke with her workmates. It made me realize that I don't do those things anymore. I have become a boring person.

But to be perfectly honest, I love being boring. It makes me happy just curling up in bed, watching television or a DVD, playing computer games or reading a book. If I go out to parties, I only eat and then go back home right away. I'd much rather play wrestling with my son than spend the night drinking or listening to horrendous music.

I've reached a particular conclusion. I'm growing old. Hahaha!

time out

I have mentioned that the baby is now in school. They go for an hour and a half, four times a week. I don't stick around after I take them there to maximize their learning. Besides, the baby does not really care if I'm there or not. In fact, it's better if I leave so he won't get distracted.

He is classmates with his cousin. Last Friday the teacher told my nephew that she hopes there won't be any time out next week. So I asked why and she said the nephew does not listen to instructions and that the baby follows him. Apparently, both of them were sent out of the classroom for a five minute time out. The nephew had to be forced to go out because he didn't want to.

On the way home, I chastised both kids and the nephew said sorry to me. The baby didn't bother to comment and acted as if nothing happened. He is the follower and his cousin is the leader and to think he is the younger kid. Whatever.

I know it's normal for boys to be unruly but I do hope this won't happen again.

ouch!

It's bedtime and the baby is lying on his side. I am scratching his back when my hand moved to his tummy.

Me: Baby, you're tummy is big already.
Baby: Yes, I have a big tummy like you.

Hahaha! Toink!

chicken today

We got this jar from my father's sister. It either came from Australia or New Zealand, I forget. My aunt's husband has relatives living in both countries and she gave this to us. My sister opened it for a quick taste and then stuck it in the fridge after. I only got around to making it today because I had to travel this week.

The recipe just called for 500 grams of skinless chicken but I added garlic and sliced a bit more button mushrooms plus salt and pepper to taste. I only used half the bottle and about 250 grams of chicken thigh. To be honest, I didn't like very much when I tasted it.

But when I added it to the spaghetti noodles, shredded cheese and added red pepper flakes, it was good. That was my lunch. I didn't even make garlic bread anymore because I forgot.

Besides, I was looking forward to eating my mango crepe. Pardon the mango slices and messy plate. I was hurriedly slicing the mangoes every which way because my pan was already hot. I just sliced one mango, mashed about 1/4 of it in then pan. I added about 5 tablespoons of sugar and 1 tablespoon of vanilla. That was the filling. The crepe consisted of all purpose flour, egg, water, milk, butter and salt. Vanilla ice cream from Magnolia completed it. By the way, I ate two of these! = )

ribs and yogurt

That was my lunch last Tuesday. The bf and I ate at this steak restaurant in the Banawe area--something like United Steaks. I wanted to eat ribs instead of steak and since we were in a rush, the bf ordered the same. While waiting for our food, I hopped next door to the yogurt shop and got this dessert. It was good and healthy--except that I loaded it with chocolate toppings! The bf grumbled that it was a bit sour for his taste. I told him so what? it's mine, not yours! The ribs were not that delicious actually, a bit hard but adding hot sauce made it palatable. If I wasn't hungry, I wouldn't have finished the ribs . There was leftover rice for sure!

Before I ate, I took the pictures using my phone and the bf asked why I had to take pictures of the food. I simply said I was taking pictures of the yogurt and not the food. = )

favorite drinks

Water and iced tea are my favorite beverages. I have always been a water drinker even before. I always have a bottle of water in my purse. I got this bottle from Tupperware and I refill it as I go. I don't really like cold water, just at room temperature. But when it gets too hot, I just pop it in the fridge to keep it cold.

The plastic glass with cover is a recent purchase at the surplus store in our neighborhood. This cost me only Php80 and I love it because I can use it to shake my iced tea. I prefer it over stirred. If I don't consume it all, I can just put the lid on and return it to the ever trusty refrigerator. (if you see our fridge, you'll see lots of containers of my leftover drinks and food!)

I borrowed the book from my cousin and it's interesting. The story in the book is not the same as it is in the movie but there are similarities. I am actually glad I watched the movie before I read it because I would have been irritated otherwise. Do you remember the bestselling Eat, Pray, Love book? I read it before watching the movie and I was really disappointed. Oh, and the book has a plastic cover so I didn't actually ruin it (if that's what you're thinking!)

pasta

I got my camera already and it's good as new! Anyway, this post is not about my camera but pasta.

photo from your30somethingmom.blogspot.com

I got KFC's Cheesy Bacon Pasta last Saturday but I wasn't able to eat it. I just stuck it in the fridge unopened. My sister asked what kind of pasta it was and told her. She said it was too salty and so I decided to tweak it a bit. I sliced onions and bell pepper and added about 1/4 cup of tomato sauce to the pasta. Here's the end result:

I didn't get to finish it all though. It was yummy but I was already full so stopped and I just put the leftover in the fridge. My meal consisted of garlic French bread, the pasta and KFC coleslaw. We have mangoes and I was planning to make crepes today. But the baby and I went out and was too tired to make already. But I intend to make some tomorrow and a chicken something that comes from a bottle. Wait and see!

hewwo mommy!

I was gone for three days and I missed the baby terribly. I called him everyday and he knows how to converse on the phone already.

Me: Hello baby!
Baby: Hewwo Mommy
Me: What did you do babe? Did you go to school?
Baby: Yes, I crayon.
Me: That's good. What did you eat?
Baby: I eat Koala March.
Me: Oh okay. You miss mommy?
Baby: Yes.
Me: I miss you too, babe. I'll see you tomorrow.
Baby: See you tomorrow.
Me: Love you baby.
Baby: Wab you Mommy.
Me: Bye...

awww...

This morning when I woke up, the baby was up and running about with his cousin. When he saw me standing by the bathroom, he ran up to me and hugged my legs. How I missed this little monster!

the fight

The bf and I hardly ever fight now. It's not because we're perfect but because we've learned to understand each other better. He knows when I'm mad at something and I know when he's irritated. Instead of talking, we end up keeping quiet. And thus, there is no trouble. We only talk when the emotion has passed.

During our trip, the bf and I fought. I was mad at him because he lied to me. I had asked him a question about doing something I thought he did but he lied straight-faced and denied it. I always have a feeling when he isn't telling the truth but I just kept quiet. I wanted to be sure before I confronted him. Unfortunately, the other vehicle had internal trouble. We had to stop in the expressway to figure it out. The only good thing about it is that the other driver was a mechanic as well. He only needed a few tools to fix it but we didn't have it. The bf needed to go and buy what was needed. I was staying in the car the whole time and when he talked to me, he saw that I wasn't talking anymore and I was glaring at him.

For the bf, the best defense is offense. I was still quiet and he was the one getting all worked up. He said that was all in my mind and I wasn't helping with the present problem. I was too selfish to be thinking about that etc, etc, etc. Still I didn't answer. He was grumbling the whole time and was doubly irritated by the traffic. It was literally going at a snail's pace and he had no idea where to buy the stuff. He stopped at a bike store for directions and we proceeded. But we couldn't go very far since the traffic flowed a few feet at a time only. He asked me to drive and he would walk. So he went down and walked. After 10 meters, the traffic opened up but I didn't stop for him. I went on ahead for about 100 meters until he called me on the cellphone. He was shouting because I left him to walk instead of stopping. Hahahahaha! I said you told me to drive and I did. I waited for him and he drove again. But after about 200 meters, he went down again. He finally flagged down a tricycle that took him somewhere. I took over, drove and found a parking space and waited for him to return. I was really glad I let the bf walk that distance. It was sweet revenge!

On the way back, he had calmed down considerably. I was talking to him already but only in short sentences. We didn't talk about the fight until the next morning. He said he dreamt of his mother and I said I dreamt about leaving you. I didn't really but it was the perfect opening. There we discussed my reason for being angry and he apologized. I told him I cannot control what you do and I do not intend to anyway. All I ask is you tell me the truth. Don't lie to me unless you know I will not be able to verify it. If there is one thing I hate, it's liars. I know lies are necessary sometimes but not when it comes to me and our relationship and I told him that.

After that talk, the bf complained that he was hungry.

exchanges

The bf complained of stomach ache during our trip. I had no medication save for hyperacidity tablets. During one of our stops, I saw a neighborhood pharmacy and decided to get some for his pain. While I was paying for the medicine, I talked with the saleslady/pharmacist (not sure!)

Her: Miss, saan ka nagtatrabaho?
Me: Po? Hindi po ako taga-rito. Bakit po?
Her: Kasi maganda ka.
Me: Ahhh...
Her: Mas tumitingin ako sa babae kaysa lalake pero di naman ako tomboy.
Me: Ahhh...!!!

********

The bf was inside the main office of a supplier. He was inquiring about applying for dealership. We were arguing on the way because of directions. I have no sense of direction and he was irritated that I told him to turn the wrong way. I let him go in aone while I stayed in the vehicle. It was around lunchtime already and I needed to pee. I asked the guard where the toilet was and saw the bf seated with the marketing officer. When I was done, I stopped by their table.

Bf: I think I am going to get a franchise instead of the dealership (talking to me)
Marketing Officer: Hi!
Me: Hello!
Bf: Misis ko. (pointing to me)
M.O.: Aba ang bata ni misis ah!
Bf: Ano nga yung profession mo?
Me: I'm a _ _ _
M.O.: Ang galing mo pumili sir, ha? Bata na, matalino pa!


********

At another supplier's store:

Bf: Babe, you write the check now so we can leave.
Owner: Sino to? Assistant mo or anak mo?
Bf: Misis ko to.
Owner: Ay sorry... Medyo magkamukha kasi kayo, pareha kayo ng mata.
Bf: Hehe...

travel

I'll be off with the bf on a trip tomorrow. So I won't be able to blog until Thursday. I'm not bringing my computer because I also want to take a break. Hopefully, it'll be a fun trip. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Till then! Ciao!

x0x0,

Chloe

book!

I've always wanted to write a book. It didn't matter if it wouldn't get published as long as I could write a full-length one. Then one night last week, when I had a case of insomnia, I got an idea for a book that I think I can actually complete.

But I am sad to say that I haven't began- not a single word yet. Fiction will not work for me because I am not good at descriptive phrases. I am thinking of writing a coffee table book about our place. I have yet to do research. The book is going to feature a lot about the past so I will have to make a plan before I begin. Nevertheless, I am so pleased with myself! Hahaha! This is one of my greatest dreams and I hope I will be able to accomplish it in the next couple of years.

In my mind, I have already envisioned the cover, the photos and the acknowledgement! And to think I haven't even written Chapter 1. But in fairness, I didn't think of adding photo of myself! = )

talk like a man

Baby: Where did you go?
Me: I went jogging.
Baby: Why?
Me: Because my tummy is big, I want to make it small.
Baby: I want to have a bigger tummy.


****

Me: Don't tickle my feet babe. It's dirty.
Baby: You clean your feet at the bathroom, Mommy. And be careful, don't cry.


*****

The show on TV is Teen Titans and the Baby and I are reading his book.

Baby: What's that? (pointing at the picture of a bird)
Me: That's a robin.
Baby: That's Robin (pointing to the character on the show named Robin)


*****

It's about 10pm and I just got home from a night with friends.

Me: Babe, does my dress look nice?
Baby: No, you change Mommy. Wear shirt and shorts. Your dress is not nice.
(He's afraid I'll go out again!)


*****

The bf and I were talking and the baby was shouting nonsense as well.

Dad: He is very noisy.
Me: I know, right?
Baby: I'm not noisy, it's Daddy.
Daddy: Why me? I even stopped talking already.


****

I'm holding a maxi dress that I just bought

Me: Babe, is my dress nice?
Baby: It will not fit you.

good buys

A few days ago, I got the chance to go downtown. I often go downtown with the boyfriend but we usually go there for business stuff. We only go to the mall when we need something and window shopping is unheard of. The bf asked me to fetch him from the shop because he needed to pick up a car. When I had taken him to his destination, he asked me to go ahead and get our tickets for next week's trip. His next stop was the bank. Before getting tickets, I stopped at a wheel alignment center and had my car wheels checked. The attendant told me it would take at least an hour so I decided to leave it there in the meantime. I took public transportation to the ticket office downtown. After I had gotten tickets, I went to the textile store and got thread and other stuff for my dress. Then I walked to a small store that has been around since I could remember. I needed to get a gift for the baby's classmate. I browsed around and got the present. I also found the bandau above. I already have a black one of anothe brand but I wanted to get a nude colored one. This cost only P60! What a steal right?

In blogs that I read, bloggers frequently mention Comme des Garcons and praise about how great it is. Now this isn't an original shirt because it cost only P330 and marked down to P290. But I loved the shirt because 1) i like white shirts and 2) the heart looked so cute.

I also got a white tank top for kids at P40 only. (I forgot to take a picture). I was so glad I shopped there and thankful that the bf had given me money earlier in the day. The baby also loved the Reese's Peanut Butter Cups I got him.

jessica sanchez!!!

Way back when, I used to watch American Idol. I saw the season when Carrie Underwood and that guy with salt and pepper hair won. But after that, I just lost interest in watching the show. I caught a few episodes and was impressed by Joshua and Phillip. I was glad they got in but I wasn't all that interested. That is until I heard about Jessica Sanchez and how she wowwed a lot of people-including the judges. I only started watching seriously when the Top 12 was chosen and I try to watch every episode when I can. I do skip the results show especially since a lot of people broadcast the results on Facebook anyway.

But last night's result was a shocker. She was the frontrunner of the contest and she just dropped to the bottom at the blink of an eye??? Honestly, I am not surprised. The show is American Idol after all. An American should win, not some Filipino-Mexican singer who is not only talented but fashionable as well. Luckily, the judges saved her behind. My friend who lives in the US says that they should learn from this and actually for her vote seriously next week, else Jessica is bound to return to the bottom three.

I don't want to vote for her, in truth. I never do that (not even contests that my friends or family join) and I'm not about change because of her. Hahaha! I just wish they'd let her stay till the Top 2, though. So if you can, please vote!

destroyed

The baby has successfully destroyed my digital camera. After countless attempts, he has now destroyed the lens/zoom function. I will have to take it to the repair shop today and hope it'll be okay. I am no longer worried about repairs because I know where to take my camera already. However, my problem is if the damage is reversible. If not, I will have to purchase a new one. Aside from the fact that I don't want to buy yet, I also do not know which one to get. So I'm crossing my fingers and hope that it will be okay. I have to admit it's also partially my fault for letting him play with it. But it's already happened so I can't really do anything anymore. He actually said sorry to me last night.

** The camera is already fixed and it will cost me P2,500 for the repair!! The technician said the camera must have been dropped hard because the lens was distorted and the side cracked open!

food trip!

During our morning exercise, we usually get to buy fresh fish. Fresh means the fish literally came from the sea onto the net and into our plastic bags. The bf and I keep plastic bags in our vehicles for this purpose. The week before, the fishes were bigger and we only got two fishes each. The fish above are small but delicious. I do not know the name of the fish in English, Tagalog or our dialect, so please don't ask me that! The bf said this type of fish is good for frying, tinola and kinilaw or ceviche. I often fry the fish and pair with soy sauce. I have tried cooking tinola but I didn't like it much. Pardon the dirty plate! I didn't notice...

So I attempted to make kinilaw. If you should know, I am a good eater but not a good cook. But I have to admit I made this dish work. I didn't even add tomatoes because I was tired of slicing already. I just used ginger, onions and mango, kalamansi, vinegar and mayonaisse. I left it in the fridge until I was ready to eat. And seasoned with salt!

By the way, did I say this was for brunch? =)

This was my dinner Thursday night. I heated store bought mushroom soup in a can. Added half a cup of milk and water, seasoned with salt and pepper and stirred it. Apparently, you're not supposed to boil the soup. I actually got this a few weeks ago in preparation for Holy Week. But according to an article by Cory Quirino, mushroom is not good for cleansing/fasting.

I sliced French bread, put butter and rubbed garlic on the bread and toasted it for five minutes. I chopped another slice for the croutons and toasted them as well. The meal was heaven! And the good thing is that I woke up the next morning feeling light. I am trying to stop eating rice at dinnertime. I did it Thursday and Friday. I just hope I can keep it up.

friday the 13th

Today is Friday the 13th or didn't you notice? This day is supposedly associated with bad luck and unfortunate events. But not for me. Today turned out to be quite good although they were teeny inconveniences. Nevertheless, this is life so you have to take all these in stride. Truthfully, I was mildly irritated with the boyfriend but I had to forego the feeling in the spirit of love and peace. Hahaha! How could you get mad if the person you are angry at just smiles at you? Instead, you just grumble in your head and talk to yourself when you're alone. I spent quality time with him today, what with all the busyness of our schedules. We haven't had time to spend as much time as we usually do this week.

He had to entertain out of town buyers, I was busy with kids in school and work. We had to deal with business matters, visits to the banks and lawyers and online payments in between. Today was the only time we had time to spare to talk, hash out the week past and our plans for our next trip, among others. Yesterday was also another hectic day with an unexpected problem. It was something that could have been avoided but wasn't. We are still reeling from the effect of that problem. But I believe that everything happens for a reason and that things will always work out according to God's will.

Despite it being a creepy Friday, I was able to light candles for St. Anthony de Padua and am planning to go to a newphew's first birthday tonight. Yes, dieting will be put on hold for now!

kids and school

I haven't been able to blog because my week just got busier than ever. I have finally enrolled the baby and his cousin to an Early Literacy class last Tuesday. They began classes last Wednesday and they were really excited about going to school. The class starts at 10.30 and ends at 12 noon from Tuesdays to Fridays only. I plan to let the baby study Nursery on June already. Apparently, with the K+12 churva of the Department of Education, the baby will have to study Grade 1 at 6 years old. I cannot believe I am already thinking about school and all that stuff.

Just goes to show how swift time flies. My baby is not a baby anymore. It's funny because in school, the teachers call him by his first name and he responds. But he still refers to himself as Baby. After their class, his teacher asked me who Baby was. So I asked why and she said because he said Baby will open the door. I told her he was Baby and that's how he is addressed at home. I am actually teaching him his name but he still insists on calling himself Baby. We'll have to work on that.

Today, it was the birthday of a classmate and they were looking forward to the party. They each got a lootbag and balloon and had a blast. School makes me busier than ever because I have to take them to school and fetch them afterward. But this is what a parent has to do, I guess... = )

rashes

This is how I looked last Friday. Guess what I did? I didn't do anything but clean out my closet. I wanted to fix my closet because our household help would only put my clothes inside without checking where it actually belonged. And because I'm lazy, I would just let her do as she pleased. I would only arrange the clothes inside when I can no longer find anything to wear. I took the time to do it last Friday because I felt like it. And this is what I got. I was perspiring but I didn't want to turn on the aircon. I just used the fan but it wasn't enough to keep me from sweating.

Yes, this is what happens to me when I clean out my closet. In the afternoon, I also got rashes because I was perspiring from being outdoors. Imagine that? And the bad part is that it is very itchy. It makes me want to scratch and scratch. Even after I took a shower, the rashes remained. It appeared in my forehead, cheeks, neck and chest. According to my mom, I'm so Spanish. As if! = )

trans

photo from www.rumorfix.com

I recently heard on the news about Jenna Talackova who was a transgender who wanted to join Miss Universe. I have nothing against homosexuals, lesbians or transgenders in general but I would have to agree on not allowing her (or rather him) to join. Although she may look and live like a female but in reality, she is a man. And men are not supposed to join women's beauty contest.

Everyone has the freedom to be who they want to be and Jenna, formerly Walter, is not an exception. But there has to be boundaries. Even if he changes her sexual organ, develops breasts, she was still born a man and that's that. And I'm not saying this because I'm jealous of her! hahaha!

now she runs...

i now love to run. running has become my favorite form of exercise. i do it every morning without fail and i am happy to say that i have made progress. i know i always wanted to run 3k but even if won't be able to do it yet, it's okay. i'm just really glad i am able to run daily. i no longer wake up at 6.30 but 6am so i have more time to run. hahaha! i cannot believe i am saying this. me-of all people! but things change... i still don't run with the bf. we run separately but we finish together. i used to just want to see the sunrise that's why i wake up early. but i ran one day because i wanted to burn off the food i ate the night before. now, even if didn't eat much, i still run because it's addicting. i now understand when people say running is addictive because it really is.

i still walk though, i do it upon starting my routine. i walk for about 10 minutes then i run. i take a break for about 5 minutes and then run again. i love how my sweat just comes out and i feel so refreshed. i just drink water after to quench my thirst. i bring pineapple juice for the bf because it's what he loves to drink. i hate it, just plain water for me, please.

easter photos

the view from the resort's veranda. that's another island in the distance.

this is the kiddie pool that the baby and i swam in.

this is the largest pool in the resort. it's an infinity pool that drops to the pool in the next photo.

this is pool number two.


this is my brother's lunch. lechon kawali and rice.

i chose spicy pork spareribs. this really delicious although it's a bit too salty for my taste. but the meat was fork tender and well seasoned.

this is hawaiian pizza made from a brick oven or wood oven. i'm not quite sure but i am positive of the taste. this is absolutely to die for. the cheese just melted and it's so fattening!


this is penne bolognese. i love this dish and whenever i come to this resort, i never fail to order this one. i'd be okay not eating the meat, just the pasta and sauce is enough for me.

the break

I took the Holy Week break to heart. I didn't work starting Thursday and basically just laid back. I have said we weren't going anywhere and we didn't. I had no intention of using my computer or going online during that period. However, I had to because two of my aunts had their orders. One wanted me to make a resume and the other wanted me to make a speech. I had no way out so I had to do it. I even handwrote the speech because I still had no printer. I ended up watching two movies on Thursday. First was "The Artist" and the other was "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo". Both were great movies and the latter was really interesting.

We did the Visita Iglesia on Thursday night. It was sort of my first time because the last time I did it, it was more of an excursion. I went with my choir group then and was quite fun. This time, it was with family and more solemn. It's just too bad I didn't bring my camera because the churches were beautifully lit and decorated.

I don't join the Via Crucis on Good Friday anymore. The people in our place end up just going too fast and not stopping at stations. It somehow turns into a race and I find it pointless. We were supposed to join the procession in the afternoon but the baby was scared of the statues. Only my parents and brother joined and we waited for them to finish. We ate out that night and fasting flew out the window.

Saturday was the day for the girlfriends. I went to my girlfriend's house at 2:30pm already because the bf wanted to spend time with me first. I got home at almost 10pm although I told him at 7:30 that I was on my way home. Even then, he complained that it was already late. Imagine! I had such fun laughing with the girls. We were complete and it was basically all about food and talking and catching up. Two of the girls are due to give birth next month. We're expecting one boy and one girl.

Sunday was family day again. However, my sister and her family didn't join us. Nevertheless, we had such fun swimming in the pool and eating. The baby didn't want to go home and when we finally did, he was knocked out in five minutes. The heat was really bad and I ended up burning my right shoulder. It's quite red and hurts a bit. I ended up wearing a strapless bra today because I couldn't bear having a bra strap digging in.

That's how I spent the my four-day vacation. Since the break's over, it's back to the drudgery of work yet again.

can't post

i've been trying to post an entry since sunday-and failed dismally. we'll see if this works.

darker

i am trying to get back my fair skin. while i am not totally light skinned, i am not that dark either. nevertheless, i easily get dark even after just a short sun exposure. last january, we went to a beach resort because my cousin was visiting. after that, i have made sure to get back my natural skin color.

i have succeeded and look nice enough. unfortunately, today is easter sunday and that means going out again. my mom wanted to go to a golf resort where there are three swimming pools. the baby really loved the kiddie pool during our previous visit so i was okay going there. unfortunately, the heat was just extreme. even if i waited till 3pm to swim, i was still red. not as red as a lobster, though, but red enough to make my skin darken yet again. and i only have about a month to recover before my cousin's wedding! ugh! this sucks... = )

baby shots

These are some of the baby's attempts at photography.

short leash

I love the bf. But sometimes, I feel that he keeps me on such a short leash. No, I'm not a dog but he's getting to be too possesive. I've always said I don't tell him when I go out and there's a reason. He's always afraid I'll meet someone else. But I have no desire to do so and I don't go out to meet other people anyway. He usually just pops at home when we have to go somewhere and I'm used to it. But sometimes, I also have to go out and do my thing. He sort of gets mad when I'm not there waiting for him.

Today is a good example. My girlfriends planned a get together on Saturday. It'll be a combination baby shower and bonding time. We don't always meet due to different locations and busy schedules. One girlfriend is on house arrest, as per doctor's orders, so it was agreed that we hold the party in her house. I know I'll be busy on Saturday so I decided to go grocery shopping today. Most stores I know will close tomorrow and Friday. The bf just left so I didn't bother telling him I was going out. Just as I got to the store, the bf texted and asked where I was. And I was like, do you have esp or something? So I had to call and explain where I went. Apparently, he called at home and was told I was out. Just my luck, right?

The truth is, it's okay that he's always checking up on me. But maybe he should give me a break sometimes. I don't go out and go manhunting anyway. And not that I'm complaining, mind you.

summer hot!

Is it just me or is it really a very hot Holy Week? It's painful going out already and I'm glad to stay in, turn on the a/c and sleep. The kids feel the heat too and they've taken to swimming in the morning and afternoon. It's a good thing they have their own "pool".

We're not going anywhere for the weekend, it's not our thing. The folks take the Holy Week seriously around here. But I am looking forward to the long weekend of no work. I intend to stay at home and relax. Oh, and go join a procession and visit the church when it's not too hot.