Growing up with Bea

Photohunt: Spiral

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 15:21:00 +0000

This is the metal spiral plant holder found in our garden. This actually my parents' garden, sadly my sister and i didn't inherit their green thumb. My participation in the garden is limited to being asked by my mom to carry the pots from one side of the garden to the other side. This bonding moment with my mom will eventually end up with shrieks coming from me... by then i would've seen garden "friends" like a frog or an earthworm.

Oh well. So what if i can't cultivate and grow a garden. I can still admire its simple beauty and feel relaxed. Incidentally, gardening is one of the favorite hobbies of moms out there.

I'm hoping the green thumb thing just skipped a generation. I'm hoping maybe the little girl still has the gift. =) I'm crossing my fingers!

Department of Health Warns of a Measles Outbreak

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 18:03:00 +0000

Last February, the Department of Health announced that there were almost 700 cases of measles documented in less than two months. This prompted them to declare an outbreak in six areas, namely: Baseco Compound and Moriones in Tondo, Manila; Barangay Pulang Lupa in Las Piñas City; Central Market in Dasmariñas, Cavite; San Francisco town in Quezon province; and Balabagan town in Lanao del Sur. This is a scary statistic, especially for moms like me. The thought of my child suffering from such a notorious disease is simply unbearable!That's why i really made sure my Bea received her childhood vaccinations against Measles.

What is this diease? Measles is a highly contagious viral disease, which affects mostly children. It is transmitted via droplets from the nose, mouth or throat of infected persons.

Initial symptoms, which usually appear eight to 12 days after infection, include high fever, runny nose, bloodshot eyes, and tiny white spots on the inside of the mouth. Rashes also develop after several days. The patient may be contagious from four days prior to the rash appearance to four days after rash appearance.

The disease is more severe in infants and adults. Complications from measles which is reported in up to 20% of people infected include; seizures, pneumonia, deafness and encephalitis.

According to the WHO, there is no specific treatment for measles and prevention can be done through immunization. Yes, you read right. This disease can be prevented, if only we are diligent in having our children immunized against Measles. This vaccine is usually bundled with vaccines for two other diseases: mumps and rubella, they are often called MMR. This immunization costs a little over a thousand pesos, the price varies depending on your pediatrician. I know this can put a strain to our already tight budgets, but please, please make sure you have your children immunized against these diseases. You just might be saving their lives, and that is always priceless right?

Flower Girl: The Preparation

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 06:50:00 +0000

When Bea was told that she was going to be a flower girl at ninong’s wedding, she was so excited, even though she didn’t exactly understand what that means. She even told her teacher and classmates about it, and they were very happy for her too!

We told her what she was supposed to do: walk along the aisle slowly while throwing flower petals paving the way for the bride. We practiced THE WALK. We reminded her again and again that her pacing should be slow, but sometime’s she’d forget and break into a hop/run, then we’d have to remind her again.

4 weeks before the occasion, we asked our neighbor who used to sew dresses to take her measurements and then we just relayed said measurements to her ninong. Everything was done in a rush so we didn’t have time to schedule the initial fitting. 2 weeks before the wedding, we met her ninong in Makati, then we followed their car to Pateros (where the dressmaker was located) for her final fitting. Thankfully, the gown’s fit was ok, aside from the length, they had to cut a few inches off, so that she wouldn’t trip on the aisle. Seeing her gold gown excited her even more!

The weekend before the wedding, I decided to stage a dress/makeup rehearsal. I experimented on the makeup style I planned to apply on her face. I didn’t have any makeup for kids so I used my own supply. I sure hope Body Shop makeup is hypoallergenic and safe for children’s skin. I asked hubby’s opinion about the little girl’s appearance and he gave me the thumbs up. =) He said it was just right. The application wasn’t too thick, just enough.

Later that afternoon, we also trooped to the mall to buy Bea shoes to match her golden gown, and when we passed by the accessories section, we just couldn’t resists the items on display, so we went ahead and bought her a bracelet and a necklace.

That night, just before she fell asleep, she was still asking about her dress, shoes and accessories, as if to make sure that everything ready for her big debut the next day.

Flower Girl

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 23:54:00 +0000

Bea was asked by her godfather to be a flower girl at his wedding. Everyone in our family is of course super happy! hehehe... Here's a pic taken while she was having her fitting... cutie huh?
I'm so proud and happy for her, i never had the chance to be a flower girl, or a bridesmaid. The only participation I've ever had in a wedding was being a bride. =)

I'm sure everything will go well on the day itself...

The road gladdens the obsessed ghost.

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:57:00 +0000

another bout of inexplicable gibberish... right on!

Biking At The Quezon City Memorial Circle

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 09:50:00 +0000

Bea has been asking (pleading) us to buy her a bike. Blame in on the other kids on our block, they all have their "grown up"bikes... with 2 wheels plus trainer wheels. This has been her Christmas wish... and later on her birthday wish. Hubby had a deal with her, if she stops sucking her thumb while sleeping, he will buy her a bike. Their agreed deadline is her 4th birthday, however that day came and went with her still sucking her thumb to put her to sleep. =)

To keep her from being sad, we decided to go to the park, not only for some fresh air, but also for for Bea to try riding a bike on her own. (we were just trying to see if she can reach the pedals and actually operate the bike on her own. we rented a small bike with side car for her and a big one for hubby and me. This is my first time to ride with hubby... and it was quiet a fun experience! even hubby had a great time! Bea was so proud that she is riding a "grown up" bike at last, although still with the help of her nanny. =)

TODDLER TIPS: USING TIME OUTS TO DISCIPLINE YOUR CHILD

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 01:01:00 +0000

Forcing your child to go for a time out is a good way to stop a child’s misbehaving. This also allows her to regain her composure. But you can’t just shove your child towards a corner and let her stare at a blank wall, there has to be rules to be set.

Designate a spot in the house that is uninteresting and away from where most members of the family are. This will be your child’s official time out spot.
Using simple words let your child understand the reason why her behavior caused her to go for a short time out. Let her know that hitting or shouting at her friend is not appropriate behavior, hence the time out.
Impose the time out immediately after the misbehavior is done, so that your child will associate the misbehaving with the time out.
Keep time outs short. 3-5 minutes should be long enough for toddlers and preschoolers. The time out is meant to stop the child’s misbehavior, not as a punishment.
After the time out, talk to your child again and remind her why she was given a time out (it is not right to hit or shout…etc). Then direct her attention towards another activity that she can be interested in and focus on.

CRIBS Foundation, Inc. Marikina City

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:51:00 +0000

MISSION VISION:

A loving home and environment for each child.

Compassionate, professional and responsive staff and volunteers who are committed to the caring, healing, recovery and development of abandoned, surrendered, neglected and sexually abused children and their families.
Together, creating opportunities for each other to become whole and empowered instruments for changing their social reality.

HISTORY:

1974-The first CRIBS volunteer foster home was born when two Lutheran missionary wives brought home two infants from the Reception and Study Center for the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

1979- CRIBS was incorporated as a non-stock, non-profit organization with the SEC.

1983- CRIBS was licensed by the DSWD as a child welfare agency for abandoned, neglected, and surrendered infants.

1986- A home called New Beginnings was opened for young female survivors of sexual abuse (aged 7-17 years old)

MAJOR PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

I. ALTERNATIVE FAMILY CARE SERVICES

Receiving Home provides an alternate home environment for abandoned, surrendered and neglected children aged 1 day to 2 ½ years old. It is staffed with compassionate, professional and committed caregivers 24 hours a day. The services of the program include:

Holistic Health Care. The attainment and maintenance of the optimum health for each child is ensured by a nutrition program designed to meet the nutritional needs of the children. Medical services are also provided by a team of nurses and midwives who focus on the early detection and prevention of illness.

Early Child Development. Psycho-motor stimulation and age-appropriate activities form part of the routine of each child to foster growth and development.

New Beginnings Home is a 24-hour Residential Treatment Facility that provides a nurturing and therapeutic environment for the healing and recovery of sexually abused female minors aged 7-17 years. Clients admitted to the program stay in residence for two years. Within this time frame, they undergo different phases of healing. The multi-dimensional strategies used in the treatment of sexual abuse seek to address the impact and issues of their traumatic experiences.

II. PLACEMENT SERVICES

Receiving Home Placement Program. The focus is on the permanent placement of each child within the shortest time possible. Permanent placement refers to adoption or reunification of child with biological parents/relatives.

New Beginnings Family and Reintegration Program. The program addresses the healing of families of the new beginnings clients; equips them with skills to effectively handle family issues and situational life crises, and prepares them for eventual reintegration with their child. These efforts are attained through family therapy, individual counseling and parent support group meetings.

Foster Care Program. Provides an alternative family care for children in need of one on one care and stimulation. These children are temporarily placed with licensed foster families to experience the warmth of parental care and family life while permanent placement is being worked on.

VOLUNTEER AND RESOURCE GENERATION PROGRAM

The organization has developed and maintained a considerable pool of volunteers and a resource network to expand its capacity to deliver the optimum service. Volunteer interests, talents, expertise and resources are mobilized and utilized to serve the interests of the children and support the needs of the program.

Resource development is an on going effort to achieve financial sustainability for the program implementation and development. This allows the program to be responsive and dynamic in meeting the needs of the children.

If you're interested to help in anyway or if you have questions, the person to call is:

Maritona V. Labajo, Executive Director
CRIBS FOUNDATION INC.
15 Major Dizon St, IVC Marikina City
1802 Philippines
Tel (632) 681-8078, 681-5921, 681-9705

Email: cribsnet@info.com.ph
site: http://www.cribsfoundation.org/

She's 4!

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 08:49:00 +0000

How time flies! the little girl turned four years old last month! it seemed only yesterday when she was still trying to learn to walk and talk... now she's running all over the place, with her volume turned all the way up! (learning to control her volume is still a work in progress.)

this year, she chose a minnie mouse theme for her birthday. =)

Appreciate Simplicity

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 11:38:00 +0000

Simplicity adds quality and contentment to your life.

Simplicity comes from learning to say “no”.

Simplicity is being satisfied with what you don’t have as with what you have.

Simplicity involves removing the clutter.

Simplicity means never buying something for the purpose of impressing others.

Simplicity refuses to get caught in the trap of overspending, over committing and over working.

Simplicity enjoys happiness and treasures joy.

Simplicity cherishes tranquility.

Simplicity knows how to be content in whatever situation you find yourself.

Simplicity celebrates God’s creation and sees God in the small stuff.

Source: Bruce and Stan (Adapted from “God Is In The Small Stuff”)

Diva In Training

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Sat, 09 Jan 2010 14:50:00 +0000

Bea's First School Presentation

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 09:09:00 +0000

December 18, 2009 was a date to remember. It was our daughter’s first school presentation! A few weeks before, Bea’s teacher called for a meeting. They discussed that there will be a gift giving celebration. It’s an event where parents are asked to give gifts (anything from clothes, toys or food) and the teachers will be inviting less-fortunate children and our children will be the ones to give the collected gifts to the unfortunate kids. Hubby and I decided to give away spongebob toothbrushes and towelettes, plus tooth paste. I know, I know, we got a little carried away. It was a bit expensive, but we thought the kids would truly love this… a treat for most of them since I knew most of them don’t even a simple toothbrush, let alone a cutie one. Hehehe. Besides, I was sure the other parents will have the usual noodles and canned goods covered.

Apparently it was an annual activity of the school and they have it near Christmas time, and as part of the celebration, the kids will be preparing a presentation, per level. The nursery class where Bea belonged was tasked to dance. They even had red and green pompoms as props. Being the eager first-time stage parents that we were, we stayed up late into the night cutting up red and green strips of plastic that we fashioned into pompoms. (I couldn’t find ready made ones with the correct color). Their dance was supposed to be a medley of the LSS-inducing and National Christmas Party 09 Anthem “Nobody” by the wonder girls and some Christmas carols. As expected, no intricate dance steps for the 3-4 year olds. Just the usual “Nobody” dance move (clapping and pointing) and a lot of waving of hands and jumping around…moves that the little girl has memorized and perfected.

When the day of the celebration was nearing, I asked permission from my superior that on that day I will take a leave. I told her the real reason of my request, thankfully she was very understanding about it and allowed me.

On the day of celebration, I woke up really late! Hahaha! Then I went to Goldilock’s Concepcion to purchase their little multi-colored puto… but they were all out (to my dismay!) so I opted for 3 packs of macaroons instead. I also passed by mercury drug store to purchase some cough medicine for the little one… then as a last stop, I dropped by the local grocery store and bought two boxes of juice for that afternoon’s potluck.

The service “bus” arrived early, and I was not yet ready, so I let Bea and her nanny go ahead of me while I just walked all the way there. When I arrived, the little one was already waiting for me… feeling jealous of the other kids who had mommies doting over them. When she saw me, she was all smiles!

After a few moments, the program started. We were all surprised when the nursery class was the first one called. We expected them to be the last performers. Anyway, the other kids went on up the stage… our nanny brought Bea to the stage… but once there, she jumped off and came running to me! Oh no! I tried to coax/bribe/force/scare her into going back… to no avail… as a compromise, she agreed to stand by the sidelines and watched her classmates perform. I could see in her eyes that she is envious and that she wanted to perform, but she just wouldn’t budge! After the whole presentation, I hugged her and told her I was still proud of her, then I asked her why she refused to perform. “hiya ako” ( I was shy) was her simple reply. Hay.

A few days later, I told an officemate about Bea’s non-performance and she said her daughter went through the same thing with her daughter until they were told by the teachers that in the future, the kids should be turned over to the teachers and away from the parents moments before the presentation. This will give the kids enough time to get psyched up with the idea of performing because they are with their classmates already. No chance to feel cold feet or stage fright. Apparently parents cause this more often than not. Go figure. We will definitely try this tactic next time. =)

Webshots vs Flickr

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 16:50:00 +0000

I've been maintaining a webshots account for years now, and i have uploaded almost all pictures i've ever taken... which is a good thing since i lost my copies when my HDD got busted. i've been thinking of a pro account with webshots, the only problem is that they don't accept payment thru paypal. they only accept credit card payments. this makes me apprehensive. i trust paypal more, after having many transactions with them....

i am also considering a pro account in flickr, but i am just more used to using webshots. hmmm...

i'm thinking, i'm thinking...

My Little School Girl

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 01:38:00 +0000

Terrific Toddler Tips: Understanding Your Toddler

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 10:15:00 +0000

Every person is unique. We have heard this time and again. We all have our own peculiarities. We react to situations differently. We all exhibit our individuality. Our dear toddlers are no exception. In fact, it is around this age when they start to develop and show their own personality. We see a particularly jovial child and compare him to a somber, serious looking one… and we have the tendency to judge him as a cheerful child, while the other one is called moody.

This is important advice: parents, don’t label your child. Being called a “difficult child” or a “shy child” is very limiting. We should aim to be encouraging rather than restraining. Being labeled is like being judged for life. It is like your future is laid out already. A difficult child’s” actions may be dismissed as acting up or just misbehaving as usual, instead of being addressed. A “shy child’s” parents may go around saying that their child is an introvert since childhood…always has been, always will be. So instead of encouraging the child to get out of her shell, reaching out to others, and making new friends, they are conveying a message that she has always been like that… and will most probably be the same for the rest of her life. This leaves very little room for her personality improvement.

Don’t confuse understanding and getting to know your child with excusing and accepting problem behavior. Understanding her doesn’t mean that you will side with her no matter what. It doesn’t mean spoiling her rotten and expecting the world to adjust to her quirks and impulses. Yes, you love her, and you will stand by her no matter what, but she will still have to find a way to fit into the world, no matter how unique and wonderful she is. An example: if by chance, your child has a tendency towards aggressive behavior towards others, her parents should find ways to modify her conduct rather than making excuses for her. It part of our obligation as parents to make sure that our children can happily and successfully thrive on their own and peacefully co-exist with others.

Also, don’t compare children. Comments like “I wish you were more like your sister” or “you’re brother is …, why can’t you be more like him?” may only be words to us. After a while we’ll forget about it, but the damage it can do to our toddler’s self esteem is inestimable. Let us not assume that she’s too young to even understand. Words are powerful, and they can get into one’s subconscious and contribute to that someone’s life programming.

Our toddler is a little person. She has the ability to think and feel. It is only right to make an effort and try to understand our toddler. Rearing a child doesn’t only involve feeding, and bathing a child but also getting to know her, and encouraging her to be the best that she can be. =)

Give Children Love

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 02:26:00 +0000

Give the choice of love. Commit to love because it is right, not because it feels good.

Give the words of love. We all need regular verbal assurance, children need it the most.

Give the touch of love. Research has confirmed the human need for physical touch. The need to be held and cuddled is especially critical for babies.

Give the encouragement of love. Put courage into those little people but letting them know you are their best fan and cheerleader.

Give the comfort of love. In times of pain or sadness, provide love's healing comfort.

Give the laughter of love. Laughter sets a pleasant mood, a bright tone. Make merriment a daily dose of love in your home.

Give the discipline of love. Discipline establishes boundaries for children, making them feel safe and secure.

Donna Otto
from "finding a mentor, being a mentor"

Telling our children is not enough. There are so many ways to love them and making them feel loved...

I Still Love You But...

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 10:43:00 +0000

Recently, we’ve been having troubles with our nanny. When it comes to her work… there is nothing I can say. Well, it’s definitely far from perfect.. but acceptable. The most important thing is that it is evident that she genuinely cares for her ward. Lolo R used tells me that when he scolds Bea, he can see that the nanny is the one who is hurt =( we’ve been having problems with her attitude in general. Well, she’s just nineteen and this is the longest she’s been away from home (Mindanao). She sometimes has the tendency to act up. At typical teenager, I guess. During candid times, she’d even tell me she is like my eldest, and that Bea was our bunso (youngest). They are both

I consciously try to talk/reprimand our nanny when the little one is not there to witness it. Of course I’d still want her to respect her nanny, and even now she’s starting to have an idea of who’s the boss. I guess she must have heard last night’s episode between her daddy and yaya R. this happened before going to Church. When we were in church, she kept on asking me “Di mo na love Ate R?” (Don’t you love Ate R anymore?) I answered “Love pa din” (Yes I still love Ate R). After a few minutes, “Daddy di na love Ate R?” (Daddy doesn’t love Ate R anymore?) I said “Love pa din” (yes he also loves Ate R). Then I tried to explain to her that the reason why daddy scolded Yaya R was because she did something daddy was not happy with, and so he had to scold her to correct her wrong doing. She just nodded and didn’t speak of it anymore.

Early this afternoon, I called home to check up on them…the nanny said that early this morning, when they were left alone in the house, my Bea told her, in all seriousness: “Ate R, love pa din kita…pero…wag ka na kukulit” (Ate R…I still love you… but stop being naughty) huh?!?

Kids are so like sponges, I swear!

Photohunt : Sports

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 18:59:00 +0000

Last year we attended a birthday party which had a sports theme. Little Bea came in a tennis outfit. Isn't she a cutie? As you can see, weapon of choice is not really a tennis racket.. but a little red balloon. hahaha!

There games and surprises, and even the then-2 year old Bea was able to win some prizes. Sure she was the youngest and smallest among the participants.. but that didn't sway her. She sure has some spunk in her!

We definitely had a great time that day! =)

PhotoHunt

Bea and Typhoon Ondoy

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 02:44:00 +0000

Last September 26, 2009 (Typhoon Ondoy) was Bea’s first experience with flooding. In her almost 4 years of existence, she has never encountered a flood. Actually, the same goes for me… I’ve lived in Marikina almost all my life…and in my 30 plus years of roaming this earth… no flood at all.

That fateful Saturday, we were supposed to go somewhere in Manila. When we were about to get in the car, we noticed the streets were already a bit flooded. My father had to device a way for us to get in the car without getting wet. The whole thing was such a production number! My sister first had to get her car out of the garage so that hubby can pull in the garage. Bea’s lolo took pieces of wood that we could step on just so our feet wouldn’t get wet. We were able to get in the car successfully dry. We were on our way soon enough. All this time, the rain continued to pour. As in! Steady, heavy downpour.

When we reached the Batasan Bridge in San Mateo Rizal, we realized it would be too dangerous to push through with our plan to leave for Manila. One side of the bride is closed off since it was flooded already. We decided to just go home, fearing we might get stranded if we continue.

Bea would’ve been terribly disappointed if we went home immediately… she already got all excited. Getting on the car and going out with mommy and daddy is such a major happening for her… I guess that’s usually the case of kids with working parents. Anyhoo…I decided to drop by Puregold before going home, just so Bea can roam around a bit and maybe even buy a toy of her choosing. Bea and daddy went in while I waited in the car with the nanny. When they got back, the little one was beaming, she charmed her way into daddy’s heart once again. Daddy bought a plastic cooking set for her. =) Then we went on our way home.

When we turned to the street leading to the entrance of our subdivision, we were surprised to see that the water has risen already! Hubby decided to park the car near the church since it was on higher grounds. We walked to our house. The flood waters reached up to our calves. Hubby carried little Bea, while I carried other stuff that we had in the car. (bags, books, laptop etc). We had to walk slowly since it was hard to wade through the waters… plus the rains continued to pour heavily.

Inside our home, water reached up to our ankles only. Ninang A and Lolo R were busy trying to stop the water from coming in… and trying to get everything to a higher surface.

When there was nothing left to do… they turned their attention to Bea, who was perched on the sofa. We didn’t allow her to go down and wade through the still clear rain water in the house for obvious reasons. Typical toddler, she also wanted to wade with us. She tried everything to be able to get down from her safe spot. She’d purposely drop stuff in the water and try to get them, “accidentally” getting wet in the process. =) At last, I decided to let her down and experience how it is to wade through flood waters. =) After all this is a first for us! We will surely talk about how our house got flooded in for years to come… why deprive her of the experience? She happily splashed around, walking to and fro, relishing the experience…good thing daddy was not in the room. He would definitely be against this! Hehehe…Only when Bea started to act like she was about to dive in did I stop her and ask yaya R to clean her up. Lolo kept on telling her that it was a swimming pool… that’s why she wanted to dive in… hay!

Anyway, never in my wildest imagination, thought that Typhoon Ondoy was the disaster it would turn out to be. I was just amazed that this happened to us for the very first time. And I was also concerned about its effect to Bea, I didn’t want her to be traumatized or something… so I tried to make it a fun thing for her. The atmosphere at home was relaxed and casual. No panic at all. I even made paper boats for her to play with and set adrift in our sala. =)

The waters continued to rise as the rain just wouldn’t let up. The Nangka River soon overflowed and what was once clear rain water in our home turned into murky, mud water.

Soon Bea was marooned on the sofa. She couldn’t go down, and it was pretty heavy to carry her around all the time. So I placed her there and gave her stuff to be busy with. I gave her art paper, glue, scissors and bond paper. She happily cut and glued the afternoon away, bursting into impromptu, made up songs…I think it’s safe to say she’s not traumatized at all. =)

As it grew dark, we gathered around in the sala and talked, as if it was the most natural thing in the world… talking while knee-deep in mud. =) Bea made us laugh when she shared with us her contingency plans. She said “lipat na tayo bahay mommy sa malaking malaking bahay para wala tubig” (let’s transfer to a bigger house mommy, to a big, big house so that the flood won’t reach us) then I asked her where she intended to go. She promptly replied “Maureen”. Maureen is our next door neighbor whose house had a second floor. I really found amusing that in her young mind she was able to assess our situation and come up with a plausible solution. What a bright baby!

Thankfully, we were able to survive unscathed. Some belongings got ruined, but generally, we’re now ok. Hopefully things go back to normal soon, especially for our fellow Marikeños badly hit by Typhoon Ondoy.

Bangon Marikina! Bangon Pilipinas!

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:46:00 +0000

Let me share with my fellow Marikeños and others who were affected by the floods brought by Typhoon Ondoy a part of a book that I’ve read recently:

“Good is underneath every single thing that appears to be negative. If we can know that good is all there is, including in a negative situation, then we will see a negative situation transform into all good. Most people keep the good away from themselves because they label something as bad, and then, of course, that becomes their reality. But there is no bad in the universe; it is just our inability to see things clearly from the bigger perspective.

Peace comes from knowing that good is all that exists.”

-The Secret - Daily Teachings

Let’s try to believe that there is a bigger plan for all of us. Typhoon Ondoy is a mere bump on the road. Don’t get derailed. Just look forward and continue moving forward. Don’t wallow in the sadness and loss, for you’ll attract more sadness and loss. Be grateful…be proactive…and attract only the good things. Bangon Marikina! Bangon Pilipinas!

Potty Training Basics

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:43:00 +0000

Parents typically experience different emotional states including happiness, anger and sometimes frustration during their child’s potty training process. However, it is good to know that for the child, the feelings can be even stronger! If you learn to understand it, your road to successful potty training will be shorter.

For the child, this learning experience is a nightmare! Right at the moment they are having fun and enjoying themselves with their favorite toy, they have to deal with a process which is anything but enjoyable!

What Does The Child Believe?

It’s hard to say for sure exactly what they may thing, but a guess would be that: Life is not fair! Whenever they try to eliminate a lot of waste products, mom or dad takes it, throws it into the toilet and it is flushed away. The child does not have a clear image about hygiene and doesn’t have a clue as to what’s happening. Patience is very important at this stage.

The little one does not understand why this is necessary. It scares the child and makes him or her wonder why this is so important to mom or dad. Why does my bottom slide into the potty? Will it swallow me? What is this toilet? What is hiding in there? Is there a monster in there? That water sounds terrible! Where does my waste go? The key here is to try to make it as fun as possible and reward the child for successful attempts. For our son, seeing peers going to the bathroom helped tremendously. There is something to be said about positive peer pressure.

Then, after a youngster starts to succeed, they must face other sources of stress like washing hands and zipping pants. Sometimes, the child cannot synchronize these post-potty activities and their underpants get stained or wet. Frustration grows and right then, mom seems displeased with them. That is too much! Mom does not love them anymore…Why? Therefore, at this point your maturity as parents and your capacity to understand must surface. You’re faced with turning this ritual into something pleasant without losing your patience!

When To Begin?

It is hard to say when it’s the right time to start potty training. There is no specific age for this training. In general, children between 18 and 30 months are ready for potty training, but some of them take a bit longer. However, don’t let this scare you! If the child is ready, it will be easier for him or her to do it. If you push the child, you risk both failure and a frustrated, unhappy son or daughter. Thus, you should show your child all the steps, but the child must decide when to start it and how.

When Do We Know That the Child is Ready?

There are some obvious signs like that moment when the little one is able to sit easily, when the child begins to imitate adults behavior in the bathroom and when the child starts to refuse the Pampers and wants ‘big boy’ underwear like Daddy has. When you think this time has arrived, offer the child this alternative to diapers.
Another sign is that moment when the youngster becomes concerned about being clean and neat. He or she puts things where they came from, picks up toys, etc. They show the first signs of becoming independent, such as wanting to climb down the stairs on their own, or simply starts to ask to use the potty.

You can start potty training when the potty becomes interesting to the child and when doing so becomes a fun game rather than an unpleasant experience. Another typical sign is when they are finally able to zip or unzip their pants without help and also when they finally seem to understand and appreciate the difference between being wet and being dry.

There are some children who need to be preoccupied with something else while using the potty like a book or a toy, to follow a certain ritual. Some of them may choose to use their potty when brings them to the potty and puts on a special child’s chair. Other kids need to talk with their mom or dad or have a need to be told a story. Anyway, with patience and creativity, even the most difficult child can be potty trained.

Taking it one step at a time

Potty training is something that your child can learn regardless of whether it takes a few days or a few months. Just remember that a child must be ready for it when they are, not when you are. After all, it is not your project, it is his or hers. You are only a wise and patient assistant! Good Luck!!

source: http://www.more4kids.info/617/potty-training-basics-2/

My Budding Artist

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 03:09:00 +0000

The little girl swears that she has drawn a car on a sunny day, with little droplets of rain. There's daddy, mommy and little bea in the car... i lovingly clapped and applauded her artistry.... all the while looking at what looked like an anteater. hehehe... good thing she has a great imagination unlike me!

Parenting and the Toddler Years - Tips for Surviving and Enjoying Them

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:33:00 +0000

Babies turn into toddlers very quickly. Many parents are completely surprised by how much spunk and orneriness a twenty-five pound toddler can pack. It is a widespread fact that the toddler years of children can easily be some of the most trying times for parents. This is when your childs personality starts to develope. However, the good news is that with a few tips and tricks under your belt, the toddler years can indeed be survived – and even be enjoyed most of the time by parent and child alike. The key to managing this sometimes challenging phase is to allow your child room to grow and explore while establishing boundaries and rules for him. The balance can be delicate and tricky, but is essential in developing a good relationship with your little one. The examples you set during this stage will carry with them for the rest of their lives. It is perhaps the most important time in your childs growth and development.

Providing a Safe Environment

First of all, besides child-proofing your home to make it safe for your youngster to play and explore, there are other ways to offer safety and security as well. Believe it or not, a toddler feels most secure when he knows what to expect in his day, and that you will be in charge of his life until he is big enough to manage it on his own. This type of security will come from a regular daily routine, so that your little one will be able to anticipate the next activity throughout his day. It is also important for you toddler to understand the behavior that you expect from him. You can communicate this to him through consistent boundaries and a clear enforcement of the rules of the house. Along with providing your child physical security, it is also important to provide emotional security. Don't be inconsistant in the rules that you set and when your child does something well, make sure you encourage them whenever possible.

It may seem that your toddler rebels against all of your efforts at routine and boundaries in the house. These years begin the time that your son or daughter will begin to establish independence from you, and part of this process is pushing the limits – and you – as far as possible. While this can make for a rocky relationship between you and your tot at times, rest assured that this is a necessary developmental phase for your child. It also helps to remember that the time spent in battle will usually diminish somewhat by the time your son or daughter enters grade school. If you have succeeded in holding fast to the boundaries of your home, your child will fare better during his school years as well.

Enjoying your Toddler

There is a reason that children are so cute between the ages of two and four. When the daily power-struggles begin to wear you down, those big blue eyes, crooked smile or infectious giggle that characterizes your child just might save your day. Despite the ongoing discipline issues that every parent of a toddler faces, your child is going to be fun to observe exploring his world or learning to relate to his family members. You will fare much better during this life phase if you allow time for you and your child to simply play and be together. Sometimes the world can see much more delightful when it is seen through a toddler’s eyes. By playing with your child at their level, you will be building a loving and trusting relationship. Enjoy the ride, and even though you may have other children, each one is unique and that experience will last for a lifetime, both yours and theirs. .

source: http://www.more4kids.info/351/parenting-toddler-years/

Bea's FB account hacked!

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 02:03:00 +0000

I just can't understand why people would do that. The little one's FB account was hacked a few days ago. A friend of mine sent me a message to look at Bea's FB account immediately because it appears to have been hacked. Of course I panicked! my wild imagination was already running wild. when i checked i was prepared for the worse, good thing the bad person who did it changed only her status. He wrote something very bad.

When i tried to log in, i cannot anymore! he changed the password. i tried to open Bea's email account, i can't also. He also changed that! argh! finally i was able to reset the email password, and the FB account password. When i logged in her FB, I immediately removed the offensive shoutout! i checked her photos and her profile, everything seems to be in order. who would do a thing like that? Only bad people with so much time in their hands and nothing to do i guess. idle minds are definitely the devil's playground!

grrr.

It's Bea's Exam Tomorrow!

noreply@blogger.com (karen) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:11:00 +0000

Tomorrow, the little one will have her first ever academic exam… she is quite excited about it! I know she has improved a lot since the start of school. She now knows the shapes and some colors. Although she still has difficulty is speaking straight, (bulol) it is clear that she is trying to convey legitimate answers to questions thrown her way. When asked about shapes, she know “tatangle” (triangle), “ircle” (circle), ayre (square), “ektangle” (rectangle) and her favorite oblong. She know the parts of the body. She know some colors like blue, since this is the color of her uniform. =)

Anyway, tomorrow, I’m sure she’ll do just fine!