I'm Still Here...

after typhoon ondoy, our lives changed. I've been traumatized physically, emotionally & financially. Many things happened the past 2 months including the still pending request to Globe to restore our inet connection & landline. Yes, you read it right. I've been using wifi whenever I can - in the mall, parlor, restos, etc. It's really hard especially when I was still planning my son's party. I have lots to tell and this temp connection won?t suffice. So, let's jist cross our fingers and hope that I'll have Globe's atttention to fix everything!

It's Been...

NINE days since my last post. It's getting a lot harder to squeeze in my ME time especially with tons of mommy & wifey chores to do. Though, we've had a lot of helped with hubby's yaya, I still need to do most of the leg work when she's not here. The little boy's helping me, though. He's in charge of putting the dirty dishes in the sink or folding some clothes and underpants. Yes, we still fight a lot BUT he manages to make my life easier by lending an extra pair of hands. I know I've still pending entries to write, I'm trying to remember all the details while uploading some of the pics per event. There has been some GOOD and BAD news that I'll be sharing soon. So, hang tight and I'll keep you posted.

THINGS TO BLOG

Here are my pending lists of TO WRITE:

1) Preschool Update: Palaro sa Ingenium
2) Preschool Update: Pista sa Ingenium
3) Fever & Rashes
4) Parties
5) Family Get-Together

I'll try to squeeze them while doing my mommy and wifey duties.

Mixed Emotions

Last Wednesday, little boy's nanny for almost 4 years approached me and said she needs to go home to take care of her 4 year old nephew while her older sister goes back to work. I was appalled. That late notice will definitely cause us a lot of inconvenience. When we were interviewing her, I already laid down all the cards - including my expectations, leaves, day off's and benefits. She could have just given us a HEADS UP so we can scout around for a replacement while she was here. As usually, I had this sinking feeling that it's NOT the real reason. I'm just disappointed about the way she treated the entire situation. We've been nice to her - EXTRA nice. Even after all the things (I won't mention anymore) she did to us, I've learned to forgive and tried my best to make her feel a part of our family. I wish she could've just spilled the truth so we won't be hurt this way. We have plans of taking her with us when we relocate. Good thing, I didn't push thru with the other things we're planning to get her as I've noticed a dramatic change in her attitude a few months before she left us.

What I'm concerned about is little boy's reaction. He was (practically) begging her NOT to go. He was almost close to tears when he said "ATE, please don't go. I want to go with you. We want to see your farm and animals." Aside from the fact that she was the longest nanny we've had, she's like a part of our family, including my parents. We might have some mistakes on our part but that doesn't give her the prerogative to be insensitive to the point of hidding the real reason why she left.

My husband, who was by the way, all forgiving and understanding despite of what happened, keep on assuring me that she was telling the truth and yet that gut feel and my previous dreams was telling me otherwise. She even promised to find a replacement yesterday. According to her, one of her sister-in-law's sib is looking for a job. Since this replacement was living with her older brother, we decided to take her last night to Bicutan so we can meet the girl and conduct an interview. I keep on asking hubby if that's what he really wants. Call it intuition but I can sense that she was just leading us on so she can go. We all tropped to the South with little boy. We dropped her off and waited at SM Bicutan while she talk to ATE A. After an hour of no texting or calling, I texted her thrice just so she knows that we are waiting. Another 30 mins have passed and still no text from her. When I was about to call her she sent me an SMS saying that she just finished talking to ate A and she changed her mind. They won't come anymore. Clearly, she used that as an alibi so she can leave right away. Oh, we even checked at Cebu Pacific & PAL and the csr's confirmed that they were no flight for that day going to D.

It was a real heartbreaker for hubby and kulit. They both experienced how it felt to be deceived. I'm hoping and praying that GOD will give us another nanny who will love and appreciate us. I don't want to go through with strings of applicants who will later on leave and use us. Now, I believe what my other friends used to say, "they'll use you and dump you". LOL! Just like in the movies.

Anyways, life must go on. I'm back to some of my wifey duties - cleaning. We opted to have the clothes brought to the laundry mat while I take care of kulit's clothes, bed sheets and curtains. HAY!!! HAY!! HAY!!!

Ate, wherever you are, I hope they'll treat you right. We wish you a safe journey. Thank You for everything.

The YELLOW Icon.

I was brought up with the political views of my grandfather. My Papa (grandfather) was a die hard Marcos believer. While growing up, I've only witnessed People Power through the tubby with constant criticisms from the loyalist. Over the years, I was never a fan of Cory Aquino as a president, probably because at an early age, I've heard only one side of the story. However, when Kris Aquino conquered the movie industry, I've seen Cory as the MOM. A mother who never stopped loving her kids. Despite of their flaws, amidst all the negative feedback, she stood beside them - comforted each one as if she's the only one that matters.

When I opened the tv last week, the first news I saw was Noynoy announcing that their mother died. I cried. I can't seem to fathom the pain that they are going through, especially her daughter KRIS. I constantly watched the news, anticipating her daughter's speech. Indeed, when Kris made her first appearance in the Buzz, it broke my heart. I never imagined the love and bond she shared with her mother.

Just last night, I've heard stories from her necrological service from friends to critics. Columnist Cory De Quiros made me look up to him. He said that he never expected the late president to show her support when his own mother died last February. Her prayers for every sick person, prayers to help our country rose from a dim future, prayers for each Filipino people. Even the statement from her guard, Mel Mamaril reflects how pure and clean her heart is.

I might have been one of those people at the other side of the fence, but after hearing how she touched those lives during her time made me ADMIRE her. I can't forget Kris' last words for her mom. True, it's very hard to say goodbye to a person you loved all your life. Being a light and foundation for her family made her strong.

As I'm watching ABS CBN's coverage, I can't deny the fact that I feel melancholic. Loosing such a devoted individual to her country's welfare is a loss that's irreplaceable. My four year old son asked me just this morning, "why do the people have to do the L sign with their hands?, I said " that sign marked our freedom, to fight for our rights, our country's democracy." Then, he shouted "LABAN! LABAN!" Now, I view her differently. I can see her as a MOTHER. Her sincerity to change the world, her devotion to GOD and her unconditional love for her children inspired me to do the same.

Farewell, President Cory. Your journey may have ended soon but each one of us can say, you journeyed well.

PRESCHOOL UPDATE: QUIZZES

If last year was more on "playing while learning", this year was a whole LOT different -and HARDER. The kids should really get their mind into studying more than anything else. Every week, my son would bring home tons of homework and review guide for their long quiz. This will cover everything they've discussed the entire week. Don't get me wrong, it's okay since the kids will have much practice before they transfer to bigger school, however, the quizzes shouldn't cover more than 3 topics. Just like in Filipino, honestly, I can hear my mom's voice saying " I told you , you should've practiced speaking to him in tagalog before he went to school." In that area, I admit it was my fault, but bringing home 6-7 topics to review for Monday's class was an information overload for a 4 year old. My son can only stay focus for a certain amount of time. I'm his mom and no matter how hard it is to teach a toddler, I'm committed too make him excel in his class. Even if it means more shouting, spanking and stress. OH-OH, that's bad! BAD MOM! Just maybe, a few more nudges, verbal praises and a lot of bribe! LOL! Anyways, we've been knocking our brains off these past two days and hopefully he'll remember every detail on tomorrow's quiz. I've seen his results for Math, Reading and Language and I was very PROUD to say he aced it! It only means he's definitely learning in school. Hats off to his teachers!

GUILTY...

as charge. I've been shopping for the past 3 days regardless of the price. I've been an impulsive shopper only to find out that I've completely drained my savings. LOL!

When I'm mad, I SHOP.
When I'm depressed, I SHOP.
When I'm with little boy, we SHOP.

Just yesterday, we went to SM not only to eat at Burger King but buy a few items for kulit and hubby. Since, hubby's a fickle minded shopper, we left him to check out some nice dress shirts in the dept store while we went to the kids level for some jeans and raincoat shopping. Fortunately, I was able to STOP myself from making another SHOE purchase when I saw it was on 50% off. Imagine hubby's shock when I told him I didn't buy anything for myself. Let's see how long I can hold on to my sanity before I drag my son to the mall tomorrow and get that nice wedge shoes off the rack!

An AWARD..

that's very hard to pass. Thanks CEE! I've been quite busy these past few months because of little boy's school activities and the BIG change we're preparing for.


I miss receiving awards like this. It makes me THINK what blogging can do to my life - relieve STRESS! lol!

Rules:

1. Post Award on your Blog together with the name and the URL of the person who granted it.

2. Pass the Award to 15 other Blogs that you have just discovered as great ones.

3. Contact the Bloggers to let them know that they have been chosen to receive the Award.

It's Been...

almost 2 weeks since my last post. I don't know what happened, why the sudden hiatus. Blame it on farm town, mafia and fashion wars on facebook. I've been addicted to these online games. I never knew this hidden urge to play games until I discovered how fun it was to plant, harvest and buy a small house on the farm. Even my 4 year old son asked for my old laptop so he can set up his own account and start farming. He now has, I think 10 friends as I closely monitor who's adding him. I only accept requests from family, relatives and his godparents. Anyways, since we are not allowed to stay in school anymore, I'm finding ways to get connected more. I've missed blog hopping, answering tags, posting pics and updates from little boy.

WELCOME BACK! LOL!

He's Out Of OUR Life...

While eating breakfast, I opened the tv searching for a decent channel to watch. I accidentally switched to CNN and was truly devastated as I watched the reporter feature an iconic legend who's demise stopped time and take the 360 turn. Michael Jackson believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest at his LA home and was pronounced dead at 2:26pm. He was supposed to have a concert in Europe on July 3. According to reports, this was his last curtain call. His remains is still in UCLA medical center. An autopsy will be conducted on Friday to determine the cause of his death. For additional information, please click on MJ dies at 50.

I Used...

to blog about prescription glasses before. All the while, thinking it was for me. Lo and Behold! It was for my son. Last Saturday, we went to his pedia-optha to have his eyes checked. Few weeks ago, we went to his other optha for an allergy consult when he noticed that there's something wrong with his eyes. He advised that we go to his pedia-optha to confirm the problem. We also noticed this problem every time we're studying. I thought he was just getting bored of the routine, that he was pretending not to know the words so I'll be annoyed. I felt guilty when we found out that, indeed, he has an eye condition. You see, my son can read already and I was bothered when he had a hard time identifying some of the letters shown to him. And the verdict? Astigmatism on his right and Far Sighted on his left (200/150). Too high for a four year old but according to his doctor, hopefully, it'll self correct after a few months since the eyes are still developing while he's growing. Oh, I'm really praying that he won't have to wear them for a long time. We got him a white DIOR poly flex glasses.

PRESCHOOL UPDATE: 1ST DAY OF SCHOOL.

This year, the school decided to implement a new rule. Fetchers are NOT allowed to wait for their ward during class hours. They are only given 30 minutes to stay after assembly and before dismissal time. For a paranoid and over protective mom like me, at first, I'm not comfortable with the idea of leaving my son without his nanny. Even my husband tried to talk sense with me yesterday on our way to DFA. So, we decided to approach T. Salve to clear things up.

I admit, I was adamant with this new policy but after our talk she re-assured us that they will take care of our son. This change was brought about a recent "cat fight" between one of the nanny's in school. I don't want to dwell with the reason or issue anymore but I have to side with T. Salve on this one. According to her, the morning class witnessed the entire arguement and since most of them are still young, they might get the impression that fighting is acceptable. Yes, for some situations that needs good reasoning. However, for this one, the cause was quite superficial. Difference of opinion.

As much as I want to be with him, I should abide with their rules. I/We can still benefit from this. One, it'll amass his self-confidence. Two, he might be more sociable without me hanging around. And third, he will never be a potential candidate for browbeaters.

Again, the school showed us a positive outcome to a seemingly impossible situation. I just have to TRUST them to take care of my son and of course - GOD. We're now toying with the idea of getting their bus service. I've seen how K. Ronald drive and I'm confident that he'll do every thing to protect the kids. I'm just waiting for their rates.

Overall, I still believe we chose a GOOD school for our son. To prove how happy and satisfied little boy is....

more pics at my multiply.

A Little...

"back to school" gift & prize for little boy. He worked hard this summer by attending 3 programs in which he maintains 2 for the entire year. Being a good reader. An obedient son. A sweet baby. THESE things made me happy. So, on our way home from the DFA, I called him[....]

ME: Hi, baby! Are you giving ATE a hard time?

IZE: No, Mama. I finished my food and drank my milk. I finished (your) homework,too.

ME: That's great. I just wish I have the money to buy you something.

IZE: Really? Oh, well. This is just my wish, okay. But I want a transformer toy. If you don't have money, use your credit card in the wallet. Or get from Papa's wallet. (laughing) Mama, I think I'll just settle for Mcdo fries.

ME: I won't promise anything, baby.

IZE: Fries would be fine.

ME: Okay. See you soon.

IZE: Love you, Mama.

(hangs up the phone)

I don't have the heart to turn him down nor have the will to tolerate his qualms. So, I decided to just keep everything in neutral instead of making promises that I might not be able to keep. We went to Toys R US (as I keep bugging the husband to stop just to look around for possible party giveaways - ALIBI!) to buy 2 transformers ( movie version of Bumblebee and Jolt) toy and a shirt. They even gave us a movie poster. Cool!

When we got home, he was ECSTATIC to see the BIG white bag.

Toys - expensive.

My wallet - totally empty.

His SMILE and a sweet THANK YOU - priceless.....

I DON'T Want This To Happen Again...

Last Monday, while I was watching Grey's Anatomy, my son and I was playing throw and catch. I wasn't really looking at that time when I threw the ball. All I knew was that I hit his right side of the face. By the way, the ball was a splash bomb (stress ball) from Toys R US, so it was quite soft. Anyways, he cried and covered his eyes and I thought, may be he it was just one of his "drama antics" that he used to play on me whenever he wants my attention. But to my surprise, my husband shouted " his nose is bleeding"...

I looked and I nearly fainted when I saw a thick streak of blood flowing out of his nose. I felt really guilty. It wasn't suppose to happen that way. I quickly put ice and pressed his right nostril. The blood stopped but I DECIDED to rush him to Medical City's ER just to check if it hit a cartilage or bone. When we got to the ER, we were ushered to the Trauma Room. We're waiting for almost 45 mins and as a mom, seeing your child hurt would make you paranoid and hysterical. I called to the doctor near the nurses station " Excuse me, can someone go inside and look at my son." Believe it or not, the doctor replied " Ma'am, we have more important cases to attend to. Just wait inside." Well, that definitely TICKED me off! I thought this was the ER and cases brought here are ALL IMPORTANT. I should've have brought him to our pedia if I didn't think this was an EMERGENCY. Then I slammed the door. After 3 mins he went inside. He was still cynical when he said, "someone will be with you if you just clamly wait." That's it! I'm officially MAD! " Look, doctor... I'm a mom (I'm already crying out of anger) and seeing my son like this doesn't give you the prerogative to tell me WE SHOULD WAIT. What if something's happening inside his nose or eyes that needs immediate medical attention. Then what? I just have to sit here and patiently WAIT for you?? You're telling me that all doctors are preoccupied and nurses were not enough for this shift?" You SHOULD'VE sent someone over just to assure us that SOMEONE was already notified of our situation. BUT NO, you stand there and tell me we should WAIT." At that point, I can see his a bit scared. He apologized and checked my son. The other patient in the room were all looking at me. I DON'T care! What's important is that they LOOK at my son.

Every 5 mins, that same doctor would go inside and check on us. He looks really guilty. Well, he SHOULD. He's NOT nice at all. He also sent an ENT specialist and Optha to verify his previous assessment. I'm just happy to know that everything's okay. As a PARANOID mom, I scheduled for a follow-up with his pedia opthalmologist and ENT.

What happened to the ball? I THREW IT. Actually, we left it in the hospital. Right in the rubbish bin where it BELONGS. Lesson of the story? Don't play throw and catch without looking or DON'T play at all. Yes, it was a soft ball but you'll never know what it can do to a kid's face. Until now, I'm still bothered and overly PARANOID. I don't want my son to jump off the bed, run or even play on the floor. HAY!

A few minutes ago, I received a news that my son's preschool won't be allowing yaya's or parents to stay in the fetchers area anymore. I OBJECT to this new rule. Well, that's a different entry I'll be blogging next time.

Furniture.

I'm helping a friend with their house renovation. She had everything planned from the interiors to the western furniture. They want a modern design to match their current lifestyle. Scenic furniture offers a wide variety of rustic, western and log type home decors. Their products are made from sturdy and high quality materials that will definitely withstand the constant change of weather or the passing of years. Prices are also competitive and a real bargain. This will be a perfect heirloom to pass to the next generation. I’m thinking of getting a kitchen set with matching cutting board to highlight my favourite part of the house. Let’s see if hubby will approve of the design I want.