The Happy Wife

Happy days

2012-01-29T17:06:00.000-05:00

It was an awesome week. Celebrated the birthday of my favorite step daughter last week. She got what she want. We ate in a restaurant she wanted and had her ice cream cake she requested. It was one of those days you don't want to spoil. Went to the mall after and shopped! I think we all had a wonderful day.

As I've said, I was going to see my family doctor and I did. Finally had the result of my lab for hyperthyroidism and went out negative and normal. Yay! Don't need to see her for the next 4 months unless I'm pregnant. Well, I can't wait to see my OB next week. Hopefully a good news is on it's way. This year should be for a baby year! I can't wait and fingers crossed.

Everything is going on the right track. Changes is always welcome. No matter life had pulled me hard with some dramas and problems here and there...still have so many reasons to smile. Life is wonderful! Happy days... loving it ;-)

Hello Doc?

2012-01-19T11:29:00.001-05:00

I'm such a chicken with hospital, doctors and anything in medical field. It would be nice if I don't have to deal with any of it ever. But reality is, the older we gets..the more we are to deal with our medical problems.

Yesterday after so much convincing from my husband that I need to call and set an appointment to our family doctor and my obgyn, I know it's time to call. I've been bleeding for more than a week now and I was petrified when he told me about a possible miscarriage. Although it's too early to tell but there's a chance. Never did it happened to me and so I don't want to think the worst. Fingers crossed. The possibility started to sink in on me so I insisted him to call. And finally, I'll be seing my doctor tomorrow. Praying this is just something minor. I'm scared!

Love at its best

2012-01-17T19:55:00.001-05:00

Call it old fashioned but I've always been a firm believer of love. There's nothing in this world that can beat it's magic. One time in my life, I lived in a place surrounded with nuns. Being brought up with strong belief of Catholicism. I found myself wondering if my vocation is inside the four walls of a room. Praying and devoting my life entirely to God. For a week, I have explored the depth of praising and praying..nothing else. Knowing myself more, evaluating if the place is where I should be. I was in a relationship that time to a man I've known for roughly 6 years i think. My ex boyfriend. He was such a nice person to the point that my entire family was mad at me when I decided to broke up with him. He allowed me to find myself if religious life is my vocation or not. Anyway, on my 3rd day inside the place of holiness, I began to missed the world. My family first and foremost, my friends and my boyfriend. I realized I am meant to have another journey in life. I still can serve God I know. It didn't took long after that, I broke up with my boyfriend of 4 years. I became single but till the present we are friends. I've always been friends with my ex boyfriends. No pain and grudges holds coz that's a waste.

I found the vocation I am intended to. Marriage life.
I believe that two people are connected at heart, and it doesn’t matter what you do, or who you are or where you live, there are no boundaries or barriers if two people are destined to be together. The story of my husband and I began. I thought all this time, I'll always be the one to carry and guide him. I thought I'm more matured in relationship despite his previous experienced. I was wrong.

The past weeks has been rough, exhausting and pulled me so hard to overthink things. It sure didn't gave me any good but frustrations. One of those hard days I say. We all have that. Yesterday was the beginning of my week. My husband made me smile. Marriage is a learning process. As it gets old, you get to know your partner more. Goes both ways. And then you realize what really matters and boils down to how it all started. Why did I get married? Why did I choose him? Why did I came here? Why and so many whys.. at the end, one single answer. LOVE! I was so down and he picked me up. He knows just what to say. He learned to make my perfect taste of coffee. Made me some very good breakfast before going to work today. Text me out from nowhere just to say how am I doing and what time I will be done. I love when he send me a message with a complete "I love you". Explaining to me how marriage life should be..words that I didn't thought he could even say. Melts my heart constantly. I'm glad I have that so called partner I can tease, scream and cry with.... then when it's over we both laugh. The best part!

The bigger person

2012-01-08T18:33:00.003-05:00

Life indeed has so many surprises. I'm laying in bed next to my youngest step daughter trying to figure out how could I be so lucky to enjoy small laughter with her. She's searching for my most ticklish part then giggle. Ahh.. those smiles that makes your day beautiful. Like a magnet. How can you ignore that?

She is one of the reason why I choose to be the bigger person. I don't want to block the connection between us. I want to spend more precious giggles with her and the other two. Most importantly, I want to see my husband happy. That's how I think.

As I evaluate things over with the help of the man who gives me courage , I realized nasty words won't kill me. It does not define my well being. It won't eat my system and most of all, it's not true so why bother? But there's one thing that makes me jump to the highest, my ability to foresee reactions. I planted the hint and bravo!!! you swallow the bait. How can I be so genius?! Next time, give it at least one day so it won't be that obvious. I got it, no repetition needed!

When you know how to be the bigger person, you are more educated. You see the big picture. You don't conclude. You give everyone the benefit of the doubt. You understand better. You know what's important. You don't just spill filthy words. You don't go down to the level. It's a matter of choice and it's what I choose.

Puffles

2012-01-07T17:19:00.002-05:00

I don't know about club penguin game until it was introduced to me by my youngest step daugter. She is so much into it.
There you go...her puffles!!

Date attack

2012-01-05T13:48:00.003-05:00

Wohoo! heading to the mall. I'm having a date with the most handsome guy on Earth!

Watching tonight the opening of the "Devil Inside". He's been telling me that he love to see this movie.
Hmmm.... we'll see if it will scare me. My treat for him before his class starts on Monday.
Leaving all my "viewers and followers" a short poem I just composed...

Take a deep breath "Catalina"
Embrace the beauty of the world.
Ignore the sarcasm and negativity
Let them voice out what they think

Others opinion won't define you
Only shows you're above ordinary.
Laugh at destroyers and grin at their story. You're a piece of art!.
Smile Catalina, God is watching you.

Tell me what you think

2012-01-05T09:49:00.007-05:00

What makes winter interesting? Maybe the snow once in a while, then holidays, other than that, there's not much to do. You are stuck inside the house or if not at work. For some, it can be fascinating to go to mountains to ski. Mostly it's depressing having that cabin fever. Which is why i prefer summer.

But this is the first winter I get to enjoy with my step kids. Christmas was awesome. We pretty much over extended ourselves. I'm not quite sure if the girls liked what they got from us but I hope so. The little one for sure appreciated the puffles we gave her. Addition to her collections. She was vocal tho in saying that the coat she got from us was cheap. Lol:) it may be funny to think but it wasn't pleasant to hear. Least i tried.

My husband and i had the most ridiculous convo first day of the year. Sometimes I don't like when he literally tells me everything about txt messages he receives. I'm not interested yet he still convey it. Like you want us to buy your house if you relocate? It was so nice of you to offer. Lol... thanks but no thanks. He wants to design his own house just so you know. Another thing is, I find it ironic that other people comes up with idea that I'm stressed. To be truthful, stress is everywhere and each person carries that somehow whether we like it or not. What i don't get is why someone I don't know or don't see would conclude like that. I have no idea. Just mind your life and don't worry about ours. Makes life more easier.

I'm sitting next to this man I love about to yell him because the wedding band just fell out from his finger. He is as frustrated as I am. He just got them less than 24 hours ago. Urg! That wasn't a good welcome for a brand new year. After that big yell "TAYLOOOOOR" ...we both laugh. We ended up watching Zoe Saldana's "Columbiana". So yah, happiness comes in little something. Be sure to cuddle after the outburst :-) ahhh.. love this man so much. Can't wait to be a mom!!!!!

The Year End

2011-12-30T22:10:00.001-05:00

I thank God for all the blessing bestowed on us. It was a fruitful year, challenging and magnificent. As I am writing now, hubby is playing with his youngest. We just sent the other two like 3 hours ago. I think that's one of my BIG thank you for this year. Our first Christmas together as a family. Life can't get any better than that. It has been my driving force to get him on track, thank God, he got the visitation he deserves. They're at the corner of the couch, reading books together. It's one of those days you just don't want to end.

My family in the Philippines are doing great. My baby sister is finally in College taking up BS Pharmacy. I missed them a lot but 2011 is a great year to celebrate her achievement in finishing HS and continuing to college. Looking forward for her success. Another thing to be grateful this year was the chance given to my Mom to visit Norway again. I hope I could just get her that easy, I missed her cooking and our fights. Lol ;-) The rest of my siblings I'm sure, had their own share of something to thank about the year 2011. They're my roots of who I am right now. I must admit that I missed them so much.

To all my friends and in laws who has been with us throughout the year, I'm so blessed to be around you all. Thank you so much for all the love given to us.

I'm not into making resolutions, I just hope the year to come will be more enhancing in terms of career. I'm also looking forward of trying to conceive by the end of next year if permitted. I want to embrace motherhood so bad. Thank you for another wonderful year. I can't wait to start the prosperous New year with so much conviction that God will be always with us in all our dreams. Happy New Year!!

WELCOME

Pain... in Christmas

2011-12-19T20:43:00.003-05:00

A friend of mine in facebook posted this picture in her profile. Just by staring at it, pain strikes me the most. Probably you all have heard the devastating calamity that happened in my home country Philippines last weekend. At most, two of my favorite cities, 8 to 10 hours drive away from my hometown Dipolog. The Cagayan de Oro and Iligan City. The devastating calamity happened during the time everyone were asleep. The number of dead and missing people are increasing each day. Too many videos spreading over the internet about the aftermath of the disaster. Makes it even difficult to grasp the reality that in just a blink of an eye, many lives are gone.

It's hard to enjoy Christmas knowing my fellows are mourning. Many of them are now in a state of shock and in question on what's the next step. How to start again? Everything was gone! More importantly, they are in pain. It's sad... very sad!

As we celebrate Christmas, let us remember it's real meaning. Sharing a little would mean big things to others. Especially to all the survivors. May they find strength and courage to move on with their respective lives. It may be hard to forget but hopefully with the guidance of our Almighty Father, they'll eventually learn to accept that life has it's reasons.

This is the season of the year I missed my family more than ever! This is my fourth Christmas away from them. Wishing next year I can come home. Merry Christmas to you all!

Huh??

2011-12-16T19:18:00.000-05:00

Today a txt message amazed me.

Is that what you want? lol.. that's kind of out of the question.. you know why? It's always been what "WE" want. What "WE" need, what "we" dream, what "we" expect. It's always been like that if you must know. You probably not used to it but be ready. It's going to be like that for the rest of our lives.

As I've said, I'm the controller.. the provider and the queen of my own kingdom.

dots and bits

2011-12-16T00:19:00.001-05:00

The past few days has been very challenging to me. Seems like problems come and go with no signal of stopping but thanks to the Big Man above. He always manage to watch me with caution and to help me handle my hindrances in the right place. Yah, He loves me that much I suppose. Lucky me!

So after the hectic schedule of finishing my online class enrollment, I'm finally at the edge of starting my new detour as I say. I'm excited, anxious and so looking forward to start the many reading to come. Guess I'll have more time to write here again, as my break for a critical thinking and unending reading comprehension. A little scary but I know I can do it!

Few days ago, I gave to hubby his Christmas gift. I can't wait for him to explore the new gadget and indeed, it was a non-stop amazement. A smartphone. It was his first ever! I've decided to delay my upgrade and gave the savings to him instead, anyway, my phone isn't that old yet. I figure it's time for him to take advantage of our unlimited data plan besides, it's Christmas. He found an artificial intelligent compatible apps like the iphone siri in the Android market called Jennie. Boy, I'm telling you... it's quite interesting! He's hooked. I love to see him happy. That's all that matters.

I'm anticipating a very happy Christmas this year because first time the girls are with us ever since I arrived here. We got our first family portrait too. So much to look forward. I've wrapped few gifts for the 3 of them to open on the 25th, whether or not they would like it, I hope they know that it's the thought that counts. I'm starting to get to know each of them and their unique differences, attitude and values. I'm hoping they're starting to get to know me too.

It's a bit late now, hubby is calling me to bed already. I just want to let my viewers know, this is a personal diary blog of my life. I believe I'm allowed to speak my mind. If it bothers you don't read it. Christmas time is here and another year is about to end. I promise to write down something the next time I have time at least before I say goodbye to this year and welcome the new year with positivity! Ciao!

The Twist

2011-12-14T19:28:00.000-05:00

Choice is one thing given freely to us. In every choice we make, comes consequences. I choose to be more productive in my endeavors and time is something not to be taken for granted. I have slacked already, so much so, that I became contented with the job I have right now. I have come to realize that time is ticking and I am not getting any younger.

I have acquired a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education in my country (Philippines) in the year 2001. Looking back, it was not an easy choice to pursue a degree. Not because I do not want to go to school but because of financial problems. My parents could not afford it. Therefore, I did not get discouraged from all the obstacles hindering my dreams. So, I became a working student and that is something I am very proud of. Because if it was not for my eagerness to help my parents in fighting poverty, I would have not been triumphant. I successfully finished my degree and was able to graduate. Following graduation was a licensing exam and I was able to passed it as well. Later on I applied in the local school areas and was assigned to teach the challenging 1st graders. It was the realization of a dream of someone who had struggled so hard to be able to send herself to College.

Since I moved to this country, pursuing my career as an educator was not an easy path. I realized adjusting to my new environment is one thing that influenced me. To whether or not, continue teaching or proceed to another journey of learning. That could potentially uplift my status of living as well as my family in the future. As we grow, we face many new challenges and choices that could benefit us in the long run. This time I choose to embrace a different path other than teaching. If I succeed in this, only time will tell. I am a positive thinker anyway and I am determined. I have proven that by hard work, considering the kind of life I have had, quitting is not an option. If you know opportunity is knocking at your door, don't be afraid to take a risk and open it.

A shower for "Kaitlyn"

2011-11-07T21:06:00.005-05:00

Motherhood is said to be the most amazing achievement of every woman. It's considered to be the pinnacle of womanhood. Unfortunately, not everyone is blessed to be a mother,but, doesn't mean it makes her any less as an individual. I say it takes a special person to shoulder the responsibility of upbringing a child on being a productive and a good citizen in the future. Whoever are we now is an accomplishment of the woman behind us. Our mother!

My very close friend Lany is finally expecting her princess early next year after 6 years of marriage to his wonderful husband as well, Steve. They both deserved it. It wasn't just an ordinary pregnancy, she has to undergo a series of injections, surgeries and pains. For the 3rd attempt the IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) was finally a success! Everybody is so excited to meet Kaitlyn the princess and soon enough we will.

Yesterday was her baby shower. It was such a wonderful occasion celebrated with people close to her heart. She's a lucky woman to be able to embrace motherhood and I can't be any happier for her. Looking forward to see the precious little one on Jan. 2,2012. Enjoy the fun photos! It was a blast... and everybody had a good time. I know for sure that baby Kaitlyn is jumping for joy for all the love she received even before facing the chaotic yet beautiful world.

Diaper Castle

(a labor of love from friends)

Shower favors

Atlantic City Getaway

2011-10-12T09:10:00.000-04:00

As I was saying in my previous post about an overnight escapade in one of the famous casino in the east coast. The Atlantic City. It's hubby and I's first time. Our friends spoil us a lot. We got a free hotel room from one of our dear friend and stayed at Tropicana Casino and Resort. The tailgating driving was exciting too. The place is beautiful and with so much things to do and money to spend. lol :D After arrival and check ins, the husbands went to play golf while the wives went to shop! It was a whole bunch of fun.. Everybody decided to have dinner at a Japanese restaurant that took as a long time to get settled because the place was packed. After that hilarious dinner, I don't want to elaborate what happened anymore but we're stuffed. The wives decided to go clubbing while husbands went to play table games. My hubby tried his luck in poker and won few bucks that I was so happy about because now I have money to reimbursed the shopping I did, GUILTY! lol :D

The club was crazy! so with the girls. Non stop dancing and didn't noticed the time. Everyone had a good night sleep after an unforgettable experienced. I have some photos to share with my viewers. I can recommend going to Atlantic City for maybe 3 nights. One night is not enough!!! We have to go back early and leave our friends the next day for some commitment with family. I had a blast! We all did...What happened in Atlantic stays in Atlantic!

the preggy Lany trying to navigate where exactly is the coupon place

There you go!! I think the photos explains a lot. I don't know where's the next trip at but we will surely get together again soon!

Auto Repair

2011-10-12T08:23:00.000-04:00

Five months ago my husband's car for 4 years a (honda prelude) broke down. This time for good. A year after I arrived, the car has been going back and forth in an auto paint shops. You can just imagine the cost of repair every now and then. I'm somewhat glad that we got rid of it. After a few recommendations, we decided to get another car, not a brand new one of course but this time he wants to own an SUV. It wasn't really a smart idea but it's what he wants. It's not fuel economy plus it has more miles in it. I was trying to convinced him to use the money for down payment, even if we'll end up with monthly amortization as long as the car would run at least for a couple more years. But stubborn as I am, he is too!

Lately, the SUV has been running bad. He tried fixing it and was able to get rid of some of the problem. Yeah, there's a few of it. So we decided to bring the car in an auto paint shops to have a reliable mechanic go through with it. It's important to find a trusted auto shop with affordable price and quality service. You want to leave knowing the fact that your car is in good hands.

Hopefully they'll do minor repairs only. Just after his car was messed up mine is acting weird too. Maybe the message is to get a brand new car. Hmm...

Age is just a number

2011-10-05T23:27:00.005-04:00

Philippine time, it's officially my birthday. I can't thank God enough for the past 32 years of my existence. My family being always there for me. For all the laughter I shared with my peers. The love and support my husband has bestowed me. It has been a great roller coaster.

Another year with so much enthusiasm for the unknown. Giving more and expecting less. Living life with optimism and believing to myself that if I had conquered the past 32 years.. I sure can the next 32 years and more of my life. With people who matters most surrounds me, helping me achieve my wildest dream! Everything can happen. Thanks heaven for the precious moments of my life and more to come.

They said once you take good care of your body everything follows. You feel confident and beautiful. It makes all the positive energy comes in. At my age, I need to focus more on eating healthy and exercise. I go to one of my bestfriends home gym everyday. She's got variety to choose from. I can have a bonding time with her, at the same time giving myself a kick box. Damn that was good! I do cardio at least 45 minutes everyday and weights. Then work on my abs. Really it feels great! I am such a self conscious. I think most Asians are. In line with all the physical activities I do, I make sure that I have time to take care of my daily facial routine. Why not? face is the focal point of human interaction. I honestly don't believe that when you start having babies, you forget more of yourself. Women is very good at multi-tasking . I told myself to maintain same weight even if I get older. Even after babies. No excuse!

So yah! my 4 days vacation starts today and gotta love the trip coming up to spend overnight with friends in one of the famous casino in the east coast. This is going to be a fun getaway with our significant other. I'll spoil you for some pics later, for now enjoy the beauty of the author turning 32 tomorrow! Duh.. Age is just a number!

Mesmerizing the Sun

2011-10-05T13:06:00.004-04:00

I can't believe how fast time flies. I can see leaves starting to turn it's vibrant color. Morning breeze is getting into my nerves, literally! I don't like the cold weather ever!! Then there's those leaves everywhere.. urg!! messy yet we have to clean up! It's Fall..is it already? Didn't even had enough tan yet! Well, yeah I'm already is tan. I want more tho..but I had the best summer this year. So many times we went to the beach with all my loved ones. Hubby and I, hubby with the girls and Me with my girlfriends. Not to mention the camping at Virginia and travel to my Phillies Game. I say, yes! I'm ready for Fall. Not looking forward for more cold weather tho but what can I do?

Summer is my favorite season. I guess because I'm born in a tropical country. I love wearing shorties. I have a lot of it! And when I say short.. it's short!! I don't know why I can't start wearing clothes according to my age. I'm 32 tomorrow by the way, ahem! When shopping I love going to junior sizes. The petite section doesn't fit me well..that's why! They seems to be so big!! Aging is one thing I have to face eventually anyway, asked if I'm ready right now? Nah!! hahaha...

Here are some selected photos taken at the beach. Can't post the one with my step kids tho.. so sharing some captured moments with hubby and I and me with my awesome girlfriends!!! Enjoy ;D

I want more of these next summer.. More travel and fun. You can just imagine, people has been staring at these beauties at the beach. Wondering if we're all single! Now, that's what I'm talkin' about!

Get that stain out

2011-10-02T20:45:00.005-04:00

I live in a trailer at least for now. Not that I don't like it but I'm hoping to have our own nice house someday. I can't forget the first day I came inside my house, it's disgusting! Not just messy but there's that smell I don't know where it came from. Things are everywhere, clothes hanged up here and there, dishes all over the sink, stained carpet and the smell.. urg! it's in the couch. Really?!!! my husband then told me I already cleaned up most of it. WHATTT??? I was told it was worst!!! so i was like, how can you live like this? well, he has his own version of the untold story! I don't think I don't need to rewind how many people living in this 2 bedroom trailer before. Each has contributed the outcome. Do i need to elaborate more? I guess not...

Now, how did I cleaned up? It took me 4 months straight just to finally be able to pass down the aisle of the corridor. It was followed by everyday vacuumed, laundry, throwing some away and giving those clothes to people who needs it the most. I'm not OC in cleaning but I just want everything organized and tidy.

I have a friend who live in Texas who told me about the problem in cleaning a big house. She's got a HUGE house!!!! So whenever she said that, I kinda like to think hmm.. maybe having a small organized and clean house isn't bad at all. I can't blame her, she's a nurse and her husband is a doctor!! so no time for them to clean up a big house. She gave me a company you can just call to do the cleaning for yah just in case you have no time to do so. Having problems about that stained carpet? No worries.. shampoo carpet cleaners austin will do it for yah!

Everything makes easy nowadays. If no time for cleaning that mess.. http://www.thesteamteam.com/ is here to help. Get that stain out!!!

Captivating NYC Once More

2011-10-01T00:16:00.004-04:00

Despite the tight of money, piled bills to pay and weekend expenses with the girls, I still say "thank GOD" for this job. I may not like it or will never ever learn to love it but it's a job. It keeps us away from depending to anyone. It helps us pay the bills and buy stuff we want. Eat once in a while in a fancy restaurant or buffets. I'm proud to say, in a long time, we haven't asked money from MIL. I hate when it's easy for him to say, "we can ask my mom"! Guess it's a disease being generated from the beginning. In the Philippines, after graduating in College, we find job and help our parents. Not the other way around. But yeah, I think my big mouth had encouraged my husband to do better and be independent. We still struggle sometimes, keeping up with our wants and needs... but we are compromising. We are not rich in the Philippines but I can buy what I want with my own money from my salary. Every now and then, I vent about not buying some personal care for myself, which is by the way a HUGE important for me. I love to have certain amount of cleanser and moisturizer before I can push the last drop and I only use MaryKay. I know, kinda expensive but that's the only brand my skin loves. I am not really into clothes, but like any other girls, I love shoes and I'm a hoarder of jewelries and accessories. I'm addicted to it actually!

So yeah with all the expenses, I still can afford to visit NYC once more and more to come. Why not? I'm the bread winner... the zipper controller. And of course, what I want sometimes, I have to get it. I work hard so it's a consolation to myself, least that's what I keep giving as an excuse to hubby. It's one of my favorite place. Who doesn't love the Big Apple? Recently, my friends and I decided to captivate NYC again. Impromptu plan is the best! A fun-filled one day outing with fellow "visayan speaking". While hubby enjoyed an alone moment with his girls, I too savored the last minute getaway with beauties! Enjoy the photos.. will be back in December, get that white stuff coming!!!

the navigators

shopping for kids and hubby. See that pack bag? that's food!!!

time square :D

the jollibee, all the way at Queens just to eat this filipino resto

the beauties!!!

with the tall and sexy fella Dipolognon!

The Easy Way

2011-09-29T20:52:00.007-04:00

When I was in College, writing has been my pastime. Whenever I'm waiting for my next class, I went to our library and do some research and reading. Of course, I was focused during those times. Hard days and you got to earn good grades because if not, my education is at stake. I was a working student. So later on I have learn to love writing.

One of my favorite subject is English. I have learned to develop the ability to write meaningfully through the lesson I was taught on how to expand your vocabulary. One big thing I love doing back then was when teachers assigned some free research paper as homework. For some reasons, I am always looking forward on it. You have to have an imagination like an elephant as I say to be able to make an excellent one.

Perhaps most student doesn't like it but writing is one thing I am capable of doing it good. I'm proud to say I have an impressive grades in my English subjects/course back in College. Let's not just talk the rest of the course though.

These days, everything is simplified... You browse the net and bravo you can find exactly what you want. Just ask questions and there it will all be given to you. So here is some help for those struggling to finish their free research paper.

PhilliesNatic

2011-09-26T21:49:00.001-04:00

For a long time, I've been wanting so bad to watch the game at the ballpark! Finally,after the original date has been postponed, it was granted last week. Thanks heaven for a wonderful day! I can't thank enough the free ticket we had from The Hughes. Also, thanks The Greeks for the ride and company. It was indeed a bunch of fun! Despite not seeing Mr.26 hit the ball (end up walking at the 10th inning) and my team not winning, it was an unforgettable experienced. I would love to go back again and I will... that's for sure!!! Let's go Phillies !!!!

got this personalize shirt in the mail as a birthday gift from anonymous! hmm.. I must have a secret admirer according to my husband. But yah! A million thanks whoever you are!

You can't hide the happiness in my face on a birthday wish granted! I love my friends so much!

Here's the happy couple! Two big Phillies fan ;-) Let's go to the world series!! Oh Yeah.. baby!!!!

Madrasta!

2011-09-14T10:50:00.003-04:00

It kinda makes me feel good when people sees the hard work I put up in dealing with my husband's kids. I hear people say, "it only takes one special wife to take care of hubby's children, you are special!" That sounds very good in everyone's ear. Often I say, you love the man, you gotta love the whole package. The honor of course goes out to every step mom and step dad who diligently takes care of their step kids as their own.

I was deprived with the opportunity for a long time. Many things has been said and done. As you grow everyday, you eventually just focus on the future, and mirror the past as it is. No use in crying for it. You learn then you apply the relevant situations for the better and helping you grow more.

During the times I am with the girls, I make sure to capture moments. I'm trying to do it with each of them. Hard to reach out sometimes with the oldest. We still have that little barrier that I don't know if she feels comfortable with me or not. I likewise have that fear of being mistreated to the point of thinking she might say, " you're not my mom". I don't know how to handle if it happens. I think little by little we can work out our differences. She is so smart that I sometimes just wanna shut up afraid of what to say. Situations like that, I want their father to take the rescue. Just few days ago, we opened another form of communication by txting. I was happy that she was the one who got my number first and txted me. Perhaps eventually everything will be smooth. On the other hand, I am so comfortable and I think they are too with the other two. I noticed distinctive characteristic on Mandy, she's the most thoughtful. The one who will say "are you ok?" how's work? "I love you" and "thank you"! I wasn't that surprise, most middle child are like that. We just got her a new phone and shes my new txtmate. The youngest is charming and sweet. She loves to be hug.. the one who's always hungry. Lol;-) She's the closest to me.. as much as i love to share photos, I try not to! I'm not allowed. So, I'm keeping a whole bunch of it in printing and made a family photo book!

They may not be my kids, i may not have given birth to them, they may not have my DNA but they have my heart, my support, and my never ending love. Being a step parent means not having any parental rights or privileges but still worrying, loving and caring about the child like they were your own.

..away from worries

2011-08-29T20:23:00.002-04:00

This blog has been quite for a while. Your writer had been through a lot of things. So I was thinking to give some viewers an update about what's going on. Just random!

* A BIG news of course, I am now enjoying a "madrasta" role along with my husband back to his foot as a father of 3. For a very long time, the court had finally heard his sentiments. We are cherishing every moment the kids are with us and I can't thank heaven above for this wonderful blessing. And for the first time, we had an informal family photo during a friends baby's birthday. That was memorable!

* We celebrated our anniversary quite and simple. Tried eating brunch at Bob Evans and then just went strolling along the Silver lake embracing nature and sunshine. End up with a movie date.

* Summer time has been very good and fun! Went to beach almost every week. It's the only time of the year you can use those two piece in the closet. Celebrated father's day and of course hubby's birthday at the campsite. This looks like going to be a yearly event with some very close friends and hopefully with the girls in the future.

* I tried my luck on taking the exam after a couple of years of slacking and not focusing on my goal. I also just did it because our very close friend Lany and Steve has been pushing me to do so. I'm supposed to take 6 exams to be able to get that long awaited teachers license. I took 2 out of 6 last July and passed 1 out of 2. I wasn't expecting to pass at all because first, the exam was intended for people whose first language is English and obviously it just happened to be my 2nd language. Second, I didn't study AT ALL, i was like.. ok let's try this. So passing it is a blessing! I'm just thankful 1 is out of the way and have to retake the other one and then moved on and try my luck for another four exams. That's a lot!!! I'm not even sure if I want to teach here but you see.. if I should have listened to my in laws right from the beginning... this could have been over. Time to focus this time, I'm definitely not liking my job right now anymore.

* I think this is the year of pregnancy. Three of my very close friends are pregnant. Both of my sisters in law just gave birth. Seems everybody are getting girls.. only one boy out of 5 people I knew. I want a baby boy so bad and I will patiently wait for the perfect day he will arrive.

Not much to update, we are both in our daily basis. Everything is going smoothly, hope to stay this way, slowly climbing the ladder for new perspectives in life away from worries.

Break and Go!

2011-05-11T14:00:00.002-04:00

Driving is a privileged. It's something that helps boost our confident and it gives us full freedom as well as independence. I remember when I first got here in Delaware, I noticed that there were few public transportation around the area. First thing that comes my mind is that, I need to learn how to drive a car. I used to drive in the Philippines in a motor bike. I missed that, specially during this time of the year wherein summer is approaching. I have no experienced at all being in a steering wheel let alone concentrating the road signs, monitoring speed and all that. So my husband had been very patient in dealing with a first time driver. I told him not to yell at me for we will just end up fighting.

That was the end of 08 when I finally had the courage to ask him how would I get my drivers license. In the Philippines, you just have to go to the transportation office and boom in a day you can get out bringing your new drivers license. Here, it doesn't work that way. It is composed of two process. The written test and the road test. The written test is composed of series of questions that you have to study before you go to the Division of Motor Vehicles to take the exam when you are ready. When you pass that stage, you have to schedule your road test, you are given a chance to hold the steering wheel yourself and drive in a selected areas accordingly. It was kinda stressful for me that time.. I was more afraid of the written test than the actual driving. I believe I can drive but it seems to me that going through an exam of multiple choices for the written test is a pain. Just the thought of it made me sick. I have learn to conquer my fears by facing it. And so I did and I pass! It's all about reading and being confident to yourself.

Now, I am saying the same thing to my friend who is planning to get her drivers license. I told her that she can find all the DMV test questions and answer in a matter of second. One thing really important when planning to take an exam is to have a reliable study guide. You don't want to be armed with useless guides and ends up none of them was in the actual test. Bringing the right DMV test questions and answers will make your journey easy and will guarantee you to pass. She was convinced and told me that by the end of this month she should be able to have that privileged and independence as well.

Visa Journey!

2011-05-09T22:38:00.002-04:00

Falling in love overseas is not as easy as what we think. The distance was torture being able not to have that regular dating and all. Been there done that! After a series of process, from K1 visa coming over which wasn't really that exhausting considering how complicated the situation I was into, it only lasted less than 5 months and was able to get reunited with my then fiance. We got married more than a month from my arrival as I only have 90 days to get to know him more and made up my mind if I am indeed ready to spent my lifetime with him. And so we did! We're kinda in a rush here.. lol ;-) so far so good you know, we'll be 3 years married 2 months from now. Anyway, the next USCIS process is on the way right after marriage. The conditional GC granted for those couples whose marriage is less than 2 years from the day we filed the petition. That cost a lot! So lucky to have a very supportive mother in law who paid for it. Obviously after the visit in the Philippines, processing the K1 visa, medical expenses and lastly ticket for the trip, my husband was broke! lol.. not to mention our low cost wedding. So after a stressful waiting for that green card, interview all the way to Philadelphia and if it wasn't for the help of my mother in law driving us all the way there, we wouldn't make it, I finally received my 2 years conditional green card. Then there was a 1 year and 10 months rest for paper works..

Last December 2010, I have submitted my removal of condition joint petition to be able to get the 10 yr green card. After the biometrics that happened last January 2011, I haven't heard anything anymore! I've been reading about other applicants comments how easy this last step before citizenship.. others said they got their card in a month. So, as my situation was a special case scenario, I assume we will get another interview date again or worst.. request for additional evidence for marriage. To my surprise today, I received an email from USCIS that my card is ready for production! YAY!!!! I am going to get my 10 year GC in a few days. I can't wait!!!!! I'm done for USCIS for now.. I might apply for citizenship by the end of this year since I am qualified by then but we'll see!