Motherhood, Mayhem, & Me

The Fault in Our Stars

2013-01-05T00:42:00.004-08:00

I finished reading my first book for 2013 yesterday as part of my new year's resolution to start reading regularly once again.

Although this book is categorized as Young Adult Contemporary, and a young adult I most certainly am not, I found myself tremendously enjoying it. In fact, I laughed and cried and cried some more (I am cliche like that). I had no expectations prior to reading this book so i was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked it. I'm not good at book reviews so I will make no such attempt at that but I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a good read. This is my first John Green book and now I can't wait to read all his other books

Some of my favorite lines:

“That's the thing about pain...it demands to be felt.”

― John Green

“My thoughts are stars I cannot fathom into constellations.”

― John Green

“You don't get to choose if you get hurt in this world...but you do have some say in who hurts you. I like my choices.”

― John Green

“You are so busy being YOU that you have no idea how utterly unprecedented you are.”

― John Green

“Without pain, how could we know joy?' This is an old argument in the field of thinking about suffering and its stupidity and lack of sophistication could be plumbed for centuries but suffice it to say that the existence of broccoli does not, in any way, affect the taste of chocolate.”

― John Green

“Some tourists think Amsterdam is a city of sin, but in truth it is a city of freedom. And in freedom, most people find sin.”

― John Green

“I fell in love the way you fall asleep: slowly, then all at once.”

― John Green

New Year's Resolution

2013-01-04T11:25:00.003-08:00

I have never been very fond of New Year's Resolutions as I have found that most (if not all) of the time, these are hardly ever kept or achieved.

However, I have found that declaring my goals out loud (or putting it in writing somewhere public, (i.e. Facebook, blogs ) motivates me to work hard, or to at least try to work towards it.

So for 2013, here's my list although they seem more like goals more than resolutions.
1. Get back into shape! (Note to self: Round is NOT a shape!)
2. Write a blog post at least once week
3. Finish one book every week
4. Save save save!
5. Bring the kids to a fun place at least once a month
6. Read to the kids every night
7. Go on a mommy & daddy date at every other week
8. Learn to be ~~more~~ practical

Hmm... Doesn't seem much of a New Year's Resolution at all but those so far are my goals this year. Short, realistic (I think), and fairly easy to achieve... so here we go.

Reviving My Blog This 2013

2013-01-02T10:27:00.004-08:00

Wow. It's 2013.

My last blog post was back in October 2011 and a LOT has happened since then. I have always thought of going back to blogging but my schedule has prevented me from doing so. One of my resolutions for 2013 is to start writing again because I've missed writing, and I've missed documenting the random things about my everyday life especially what my kids do... things that I'd like to read about and look back at a few years from now.

A lot has changed since my last blog post and now here I am, a week away from turning 30 and almost 30 pounds heavier than I was on my last blog post. I always thought that being in the 30's would mean I was getting old (sorry to my 30-something friends!) but now here I am, trying to relish my last few days of being 20 something. Hah!

One of the major things that's happened to me is that I've started working. Yes, after a few years of being a Stay-at-Home Mommy, I'm now officially employed!!! It's wonderful news especially because I love my job and the people I work with and I honestly cannot imagine myself doing anything else at this very moment or anytime in the near future.

2011 ended pretty well for me and my family. Art and I got to have our "Mommy and Daddy Time"/Overdue Honeymoon Euro Trip that we've been dreaming and hoping and praying about. The kids and I got to spend our Holidays in Zamboanga with the family and we welcomed 2012 in HK Disneyland which is one of the kids' most unforgettable vacations to date.

2012 was more challenging, to say the least. We had several setbacks but as usual, it was all was part of God's grand scheme of things. It was by God's grace alone that we have surpassed it all.

First, I decided I wanted to go back to being employed but learned the hard way that it isn't that easy to find the right job. I must have applied to over 100 openings and gone to over 10 interviews and had very little luck! I was frustrated and depressed and I will be eternally grateful to a good friend of mine (Raquel) for helping me score an interview in her company and now I am happily thanking God everyday that I am where I am. The difficulty and delay was a great test of faith and patience and in hindsight I believe that God perfectly orchestrated it all to properly prepare me mentally, emotionally, spiritually and physically for what He deemed was best for me.

Second, well this part is not my story to tell but let's just say that an unexpected incident caught our family by surprise and it was a very trying time for us. It was akin to getting a rug that you've been standing on for a long time get pulled from underneath you. Despite it all, God made sure that we were surrounded by ever supportive family and friends and not once did He ever forsake us. The incident was a humbling experience and a great way for Him to open our eyes to how blessed we were and still are and teach us to never ever take things for granted. He also showed us that again, in His perfect timing, everything will make sense.

Third, there is no third point except to say that a lot of wonderful things have also happened that didn't necessarily start as a challenge. Like us finding the perfect Nanny for the kids! Ate Jackie is heaven sent! (more on that later) But it's a big deal how I can now work and have peace of mind knowing that my kids are in safe and capable hands! Also, I finally got over my fear of driving in Dubai roads and got my Driver's License (on my third try!) Moreover, 2012 was the first year where we got to spend all the kids' Birthdays and Christmas together as a family! It feels so great to be always together and I pray it will stay this way from this year forward.

Now 2013, I look forward to what you have to bring! Surprise me, Challenge me, Amaze me! I can't wait for it all but I know now how to take things one day at a time and enjoy all the little things that come our way.

iMOURN. RIP Steve Jobs.

2011-10-06T00:30:00.000-07:00

Today, I woke up stunned and saddened by the news of Steve Jobs' passing.

His life was an inspiration. Watch this and be as inspired as I was by his life and his 2005 Stanford Commencement Speech.

Some lines ilove. Full text here.

"Again, you can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something — your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life."

"Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don't lose faith. I'm convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don't settle."

"Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything — all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure - these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart."

"No one wants to die. Even people who want to go to heaven don't want to die to get there. And yet death is the destination we all share. No one has ever escaped it. And that is as it should be, because Death is very likely the single best invention of Life. It is Life's change agent. It clears out the old to make way for the new. Right now the new is you, but someday not too long from now, you will gradually become the old and be cleared away. Sorry to be so dramatic, but it is quite true.

Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary."

-Steve Jobs, 1955-2011

Apple's statement on their website:

The first apple product I owned was a pink ipod mini which my Auntie Tina & Uncle Joy gave to me in 2005. Two years later, Art gave me my first macbook, and I knew then what they said about apple was right. "Once you go mac, you never go back."

And I never looked back. :)

To our modern-day Thomas Edison and Walt Disney, a man always ahead of his time, the visionary and innovator, may you rest in peace.

Long Time

2011-10-02T23:31:00.000-07:00

I haven't updated my blog in a bit. Now that my three kids are back in Zamboanga with my parents, one would think I have all the idle time in my hands to blog all I want, but I've been unusually lazy lately!

I miss the kids like crazy and I think of them every waking moment. I even cried on the day they left (I get especially teary when I look at Amber's empty crib) but I quickly realized that I also need this time for myself. So for now, I'm savoring my short "me" time and some much ~~desired~~ needed private time with the husband. ♥

The past few weeks before the kids left with my parents have been especially busy because my brother was here. So we were all over the place doing touristy stuff. I miss having them all here in Dubai.

Will update soon.

True As Can Be

2011-10-02T22:58:00.000-07:00

"Elegance is a physical quality. If a woman doesn’t have it naked, she’ll never have it clothed.”

- Karl Lagerfeld, April 1973

:)

2011-09-14T09:18:00.000-07:00

True that!

Repetto Love!

2011-09-14T08:55:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I'm not sure which one I love more, bags or shoes? Maybe I love bags more but since I have not (yet) taken interest in designer shoes (do Tory Burch count?), the shoes I want are usually affordable so it's easier to make an impulse purchase and get immediate gratification. This probably explains my massive shoe collection which consists mostly of shoes I almost never get to wear.

Before I had kids, I rarely wore flats because at 5"1, I am feel really tiny. Now with three kids, my main priority is comfort so I'm usually in flats especially when I'm taking the kids out by myself. Of course, I try to take advantage of those times when Art or my parents are there to help out with the kids, to pull out my heels so that for a few hours I can feel like a woman. :)

So with all my impulsive buys, I tend to forget about the basics which are really more important and worth investing in because they'll be around for a long time. Thus, I'm on the quest for the perfect ~~workhorse~~ everyday ballet flats. I finally found the one I love and want in Repetto.

I am in love with the subtle and classy design of their Repetto BB (for Brigitte Bardot) ballet flats.

It was said that Repetto's first ballet slipper dates back to 1947 which easily became a reputable dance footwear for years before they finally hit street fashion and until now their BBs are still a classic. It's also helpful to know that now Repetto carries 19 different models of ballet flats to cater to varying tastes and needs.

Their appeal is not limited to their designs but also because they are ~~supposedly~~ made by hand in relatively small batches and this gives it an air of exclusivity. Repetto's company chief Jean-Marc Gaucher describes them as, "it feels like a slipper, it's just like wearing a glove."

Now I can't wait to get myself a pair of these iconic babies (after I quench my Loubie thirst). With all the yummy colors, it's hard to pick a favorite, although the black and red Bbs are on top of my list.

via The Coveteur

Some celebrity sightings.

Angelina Jolie

Reese Witherspoon

Gwyneth Paltrow

Rachel Bilson

Kelly Rutherford

Repetto is available online via La Garconne.

Kids Day Out: Little Explorers

2011-09-08T20:10:00.000-07:00

The night before Art left for the field last month, we brought the kids to Mirdif City Centre because I heard of Little Explorers and I wanted to check it out. My kids are mostly confined to the four corners of our flat which I think is very unhealthy, which is why I want to take the opportunity when Art is here with us to take them to kiddie places.

The place isn't too big and their concept is pretty simple. It's mostly about self-discovery, experimenting and understanding their surroundings (to some extent). I didn't think Carlos would enjoy it as much as Kaden but surprisingly, he did.

"I Experiment" Zone

My mom stayed with Amber (who couldn't appreciate any of it yet) while Art and I ran after the two boys.

The boys enjoyed playing with the water, there were lots of cause and effect involved in the play.

There are a variety of interactive exhibits that encourage exploration and experiments for kids.

There are five "zones" to explore the science of sound, air, motion, body, and many more.

"I Experiment" Zone

The boys were all over the place. Notice their perspired heads.

"I Locate Myself" Zone

I wouldn't mind taking the kids back here. Especially since Mirdif City Centre is the closest mall to where we live.

The boys stayed and played the longest here.

"All Together" Zone

This is where Kaden got so engrossed with building his "house".

While Carlos was running all over. Making friends and having the time of his life.

Giving his daddy a good workout.

My photos are limited because the battery for the camera died by the time we got to the "I Can Do" and "I Discover Myself" Zone. I am particularly sad to not have a photo of Carlos running into a mirror at the House of Mirrors because it was a classic!

I love these kids to pieces.

My Mommy's Girl

Our family picture that night.

Thank you Lord, for the gift of family.

Would You Harness Your Kids? I Would and I Do.

2011-09-08T16:42:00.000-07:00

I know a lot of people frown at the idea of restraining a child with a safety leash or a safety harness (I have both) which they think should only be limited to pets. I see the reactions first hand when we go to the malls, there's no denying the appalled faces and judging looks I get from some parents. But I personally think this issue is a classic example of different strokes for different folks.

Some people perceive putting a child on a leash or a harness "demeaning", some think it's made for "uncontrollable" children, some say they are plain "horrible" but I have high regard for these leashes and harnesses especially when I take my kids to crowded or busy places. I like how it can give my kids a sense of independence while they are safely within my reach and view.

I prefer the wrist safety leash over the plushy backpack harness because of its stretchable strap and I find it easier to use especially when Carlos is running around.

I'd have to admit that the plushy backpack harness seems cuter more acceptable to judging eyes. I'll make sure to use it next time. I just find the strap too short.

It's a child's normal instinct to explore so we can't fault them for wandering off sometimes. As parents all we want is to keep them safe first and foremost, the rest just comes second. Lately, we use it for Carlos (who is 2) because he sometimes gets bored in his stroller and he wants to roam around like his Kuya Kaden.

If your child isn't a "flight risk" like mine can sometimes be, then lucky for you. Kids are very impulsive, especially if you have more than one. They can run off in a flash or be gone with a blink of an eye. I can't imagine how it would be for me if I had to run after one child and leave the other two behind. So this works perfectly for me.

I don't think people should issue judgment for parents who use these leashes and harnesses for their children because you don't know their story. Judge me if you will, but I'd rather keep my kids safe than be sorry.

Spotted: Blake Lively and Mulberry Taylor

2011-09-08T16:04:00.000-07:00

Just when I was starting to regret my recent Mulberry purchase because I was thinking I should have prioritized the "classic" over statement bags, I see photos of Blake Lively carrying a Taylor on the set of Gossip Girl season 5.

She looks great! I wonder if I can make printed + printed work though?

The bag is an eye candy that's for sure.

Note to self: Find those earrings or something in a similar shade.

And that's all it took for my buyer's remorse to go away. :) Sigh, I can't wait for season 5!

My Mommy Finds: Sophie The Giraffe

2011-09-08T11:17:00.000-07:00

I make sure that the toys I bring for Amber's stroller are different from the ones she normally plays with at home so it can hold her attention longer. One of the toys that I leave in her baby bag that I like attaching to her stroller is Sophie the Giraffe Teether.

Looks like any other teether right? I thought so too, but what caught my attention was the 1,400+ positive reviews of it on Amazon. So I got curious and bought it for Amber.

The squeaky little giraffe is made of 100% natural rubber and food paint and is Phthalates and BPA free. She's very light and fun to play with since she makes a pleasant squeak each time a part of her body is squeezed or chewed on. Amber likes clinging to her neck and sometimes falls asleep with one hand on her milk bottle and another on Sophie's neck.

Amber devouring Sophie

Sometimes, even Carlos who's now over 2 likes playing with Sophie.

Favorite Of The Week: Baskin Robbins Jamoca Almond Fudge!

2011-09-08T09:54:00.000-07:00

I love Ice Cream! I don't even have a favorite flavor because I love them all. I rarely run out of ice cream in our freezer because I always feel this need for a bowl of this and that. No use blaming my kids on this one, but they also love ice cream as much as I do. In fact, in the very few instances that we ran out of ice cream and Carlos suddenly craves for it, he cries like it's the end of the world.

Recently, Cat, a friend of mine commented on my mom's facebook photo of our "midnight snack" and said we should give Jamoca a try. So we tried it the next time we went to the supermarket. It.was.so.good!!! I can't believe this flavor has been out there for a while now and I haven't tried it until recently! I don't normally like nuts on my ice cream but I'll make an exception for this one.

Can't wait to let my brother try it when he arrives here next week. :)

Kaden Just Turned 6! :)

2011-09-08T06:50:00.000-07:00

When it comes to my kids, I can't help but be so cliche in saying that TIME FLIES because they're growing up so fast. I can't believe that it's been six years since I first held the little boy who made me realize that there's nothing in this world I'd love more than to be a mother. :)

Kaden was so excited and he couldn't wait for this day to come. He carefully picked his cake design. We didn't have a party so it was nothing fancy, but he loved it. My little boy loves Kung Fu Panda so Mhin of Fadge Cakes came up with this design and the really cute cupcakes.

Like any other child, Kaden was very excited about his presents but his main birthday wish was for his family to be complete. We were happy that my mom and dad were here to celebrate with us but sadly, Art couldn't make it back in time and my brother won't be arriving until the third week of the month. Nonetheless, we enjoyed our little family dinner.

Our little Amber girl whose birthday is up next and is turning 1, looked extra pretty in her dress from her Lola Lise.

My mom and dad adore her. (they adore all the kids but a baby girl is extra sweet) In fact, my mom and I were laughing because my dad can't help but repeat himself when he says "Amber you're so pretty." (classic case of loving your own)

I can't say I blame him. :) Art too, is like that. Even Kaden is, it's adorable.

Kaden enjoyed his little dinner party.

But he couldn't wait to go home so he could open his presents. :)

We also got Carlos his "birthday present" so he won't feel left out when Kaden opens his presents. Kaden loved all his presents and there wasn't a happier camper in Silicon Oasis that night. :)

Everyday I thank God for giving me such a blessing in Kaden. For the past few months that I've been home alone with the three of them, Kaden has been the one to make things a lot easier for me. He's been very mature (for his age) and very helpful in many ways; he looks out for me, as well as for his brother and sister; he is a great listener (except when he is playing his video games) and he is always concerned about me being tired so he likes to surprise me with made beds and scrubbed floors & furniture (scrubbed with wipes that is, but still); he knows how to massage my back and offers to do so on nights when I complain about a sore body; he encourages me to do Zumba and he is the one who reminds me everyday so I don't forget when I get so distracted with fb-ing; he makes it a point to tell me how lucky he (and his siblings) are to have a mom like me and he likes to show just much he loves me in many other random yet sweet and thoughtful ways. So I can never ever complain that I am not appreciated because Kaden is there to remind me that I am, always. Those are but a few of the many wonderful things about him that and I keep telling myself that one day when he's grown up, he's going to make one girl very lucky with his sweet and sensitive ways and when that day comes, I vow to not hold him back or act like a jealous girlfriend. :)

We love you so much Kaden! :) I pray that you will stay as sweet and loving as you are and that no matter what comes your way, you'll always keep your feet on the ground. Don't forget that mommy and daddy are always here for you no matter what.

Want it Wednesday: Chloe Marcie

2011-09-07T22:19:00.000-07:00

I still haven't gotten my black Nightingale aka as "my last bag for 2011", because for one I can't find it in Maxi any where :(, and second, my husband mentioned that he will get me a purse for Christmas so I think I'll just hold off and ask him to get it for me then. :)

Chloe Marcie Large Leather Tote

So, I still haven't gotten the bag I wanted and then here comes another one that I can't get out of my mind! I've had my eye on the Marcie for a while now but it wasn't until I saw the satchel version from Net-a-porter that I felt the urgent need to carry it. I really have a serious thing for satchels. Plus, I haven't been able to get my oak/tan bag because of my constant mind changing. My closet is hungry for this shade! So now I'm confused, Nightingale or Marcie? Nightingale or Marcie? Gah!

Just the other day, my husband was encouraging me to get into watches instead of purses but I told him I just don't get that kind of high with watches. Yes, watches are more practical to collect but you can't really have them all right? So I decided that I'm just going to stick with bags and encourage Art to buy his watches and then wait until he gets tired of them so I can borrow, after all, I love men's watches. I'm still dreaming of a Panerai on my wrist one day! :p

Katie Holmes, Rachel Bilson, and Jessica Alba with their Marcies.

Kids Day Out: Kidzania

2011-09-06T16:41:00.000-07:00

We've been meaning to take the kids to Kidzania at Dubai Mall but we almost always run out of time. Dubai Mall is such a huge mall that there are A LOT of shops on the way to Kidzania that lure you in and make you forget what you went there for in the first place.

On my mom's first day back to Dubai, we were finally able to make it to Kidzania. Thank God she was there because we didn't realize it would be so hard if it were just Art and me with the three kids.

I can't even begin to say how much I love the place! Kidzania is a unique family edutainment center where children can lead independent lives and understand the world of grown ups better by being grown ups themselves. Check out their website.

You have to "check-in" and get your boarding pass before you can enter

Everything was so amazingly cute once we were inside! It was a little city for the little kids with little buildings and it had a hospital, fire station, salon, bank, supermarket, among others.

Here, the kids can play adult roles and learn how it is to be a doctor, a firefighter, a dentist, a police officer, a pilot, a baker, among others. There are a number of professions the children can choose from and they can "go to work" wearing the uniform of the chosen profession from which they get to learn the value of money and earn KidZos (kidzania currency) which they can later deposit in their bank account or spend in Kidzania outlets.

Our first stop was the fire station which became Carlos' favorite out of all the professions in Kidzania.
Everything was built with meticulously cute detail! No wonder the kids were so amazed. :) Kaden went up with the other "firefighter" kids to get their orientation while Carlos stayed and played in the firetruck.

He was so delighted pretending to drive the firetruck until the fire alarm went off at the station! So the little firefighters had to respond to the emergency.

Our little Carlos tagged along with his Kuya towards the Hotel that "caught fire." But ended up being scared and overwhelmed when we got there.

Good thing Kuya Kaden was a brave firefighter who fought the fire with his hose until it stopped. Of course, with mommy's assistance. :)

Kuya Kaden was pretty proud of himself.

When the boys got back to the station, it was time to get their pay. :)

Next stop, was the barber shop so the boys can get "groomed."

But only Kaden got his "makeover." I shouldn't taken a picture of Carlos' reaction when he saw his Kuya's new look, it was priceless! (and hilarious)

Next stop, was the hospital to learn about how it is to be a doctor.

Then, Kaden went to get his Kidzania driving license so he can drive around.

At first they didn't allow Carlos to ride with his Kuya because he didn't reach the height limit for getting a driver's license.

Luckily the people there were nice enough and they let him ride with his Kuya because he couldn't drive his own car. (he has no license!)

Our next stop was to the flight simulators so Kaden can play pilot. There isn't much pictures because I took the camera with me while my mom and I took the two little babies to a play area because we didn't think they'd enjoy the flight sims anyway.

The little ones played in the toddler area but only Carlos enjoyed. Amber was scared. :)

From there the kids went to this little room where they can doodle and color with other kids. Amber just drank milk.

Then, Kuya Kaden learned how to cook.

After that, we dropped by KZPD so the boys can be little police officers.

The boys want to learn to play the piano so they can be good at it and impress girls, just like their daddy did to their mommy. :)

There's a cute cozy little corner where you can read books to your little ones.

My boy, the little dentist.

Then before wrapping up, they tried being bus drivers.

It was kind of sad because there were still a lot more things to do inside Kidzania but we ran out of time. We had to leave because they were already closing. :( Note to self: Next time, be there when they open.

Our last stop was the bank, where Kaden can encash his checks and deposit his earnings.

Instead of buying something in the Kidzania shop he decided to leave them all in his card. Wiser than mommy! Lol.

It was a fun day for all of us and we loved the place! We can't wait to take the kids there again, but we might wait until Carlos turns 3 because then he will appreciate it more. :)

And we got some family pictures that day!

Sigh, I love my family. :)

Spikes, I Might Need You.

2011-09-03T22:53:00.000-07:00

Jeffrey Campbell Lita Spikes

Christian Louboutin Rollerboy Spikes in Denim

Want It Wednesday: Twelve South BookBook

2011-08-30T18:32:00.001-07:00

I found the prettiest laptop case and I want it for my next mac. ;)

It's the T welve South BookBook in Distressed Hardback Leather Case for Macbooks. :) It comes in variations of both 13-inch and 15-inch.

I love how they have a slimmer version for the MacBook Air.

So clever!! I love that it doesn't look like the regular laptop sleeve/case so it's a great way to disguise your laptop.

Oh, they also have one for ipads!

and also for iphones!

Sometime Last May...

2011-08-30T10:09:00.000-07:00

Me getting hydrated and getting pumped with some antibiotics and antipyretics.

I was organizing some files on my laptop and I came across these phone pictures taken last May.

May 2011 was one helluva month for us here in Dubai! That I survived it means that I can survive anything that'll come my way. Or at least, I'd like to think so. :p

My husband wasn't in town and my boys (Kaden and Carlos) got sick one after the other, and then back again. I think I averaged three hours a night or less for this month. I thank God that our littlest baby Amber, had pretty good resistance against viruses/bacterias because since she was born she never got anything more than light colds.

Anyway, this was also the month that I had to rush my five-year-old Kaden at 4 am to the hospital when his fever spiked to 42 degrees (thanks to good friends Jenny & Marvin who drove us and waited with us until the morning thus losing sleep). I was alone in the hospital room caring for a sick child and an active toddler and an infant for two days and a night until my husband flew back to give me a hand.

Poor Kaden but I shall blog about his hospital stay separately.

I remember waking up that morning too weak to even stand up for a glass of water but I had no choice because I had to do important chores like sterilize bottles and prepare food for the kids. When I felt a split second blackout, I panicked and realized that if something were to happen to me, no one would even know and the kids wouldn't know what to do or who to call (I briefed Kaden right after this).

So I decided we had to go to the hospital asap so I could get myself checked. I remember my knees and arms being so weak that I could barely walk and push the stroller. I remember praying that we could just reach the emergency room because I was so worried about what would happen to the kids.

By that time, we were already a frequent visitor to the hospital so the emergency room staff already knew us and they greeted us with a "so who's sick this time?". Luckily too, this was the time when our little Carlos boy-o tagged along with his dad on his business trip to Zamboanga. Otherwise, I honestly wouldn't know what to do.

The doctor immediately asked me to stay in the corner room to get hydrated then they infused some IV and then some antibiotics and antipyretic to lower my fever. At first Kaden and Amber were just seated quietly in the stroller watching me but then Amber got fussy and Kaden got bored. Some nice concerned lady passed by and offered to take Amber out of the stroller but she got scared and was feeling some stranger anxiety so I just thanked the helpful lady and asked her to give Amber to me. She fell asleep in my arms. Actually, we both dozed off for a while.

Kuya Kaden was just sitting in the corner of the tiny hospital bed with us and he just held my hand while I was resting.

He was bored but he never complained except to say that he was a bit hungry. Some nice stranger overheard him and even offered to take him with them to the cafe but I said no thanks.

We went home past 2 am and amazingly, I felt instantly energized by the time we left the hospital. In fact when I got home I was still able to do the laundry and some other mommy duties!

This was a little over three months ago but it's one of the experiences I'd like to look back to a few years down the road. Oh motherhood! The toughest job I think I'll ever love. :)

A Day At The Gym

2011-08-30T09:24:00.000-07:00

My mom wanted to try out the gym in our flat building so the other afternoon she decided to take Kaden with her, but Carlos wanted us to go too, so we all went up to give my mom some moral support. :p

The plan was for the boys to sit on one corner with their little sister while me and my mom do some cardio on the treadmill, but the boys had other plans.

Kaden and Carlos when they finally stopped sharing one treadmill.

They were too funny that I had to go back to our flat to grab my camera. Of course, by the times I got back the funnier moments had already passed.

Mama and her trainer who was giving her encouraging words.

Amber was pretty upset that she had to stay in her stroller the whole time.

The boys were all over the place even if they weren't dressed for it.

My boys couldn't figure out how to use this thing.

Good thing he listened to me when I told him to give up trying to carry the bigger weights. It wouldn't be a sight to see if it accidentally fell on his toes.

Carlos playing pretend bike on this one

Overall, it was a pretty successful trip to the gym for the boys but my mom wasn't too happy when Kaden invited us to leave while she was only 15 minutes into her cardio workout because he had to make a very urgent trip to the toilet. :)

As for me, I think I'll stick to Zumba (which I haven't done in WEEKS now!)

My Mommy Finds: Booginhead Sippigrip

2011-08-26T15:33:00.000-07:00

If your child is as playful and naughty as mine, I'm sure you've had the same frustration I have when I take them to the mall in their stroller or to anywhere else for that matter. My two little ones, Carlos and Amber, have this habit of throwing their milk bottles when they're tired of it.

Now I don't mind picking up after them (it's a good exercise) but it's no fun when you're too busy to notice that their bottles fell and by the time you do, it's long gone. Some malls in Dubai are just too big that it'll be a waste of time to retrace your steps and go back and forth in search for a missing bottle and just end up in vain. We've already lost quite a few bottles and it's quite disheartening since the Weil Baby Bottle and Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Bottle don't come cheap.

Aside from that, when they "accidentally" drop or throw their bottles to the floor, it picks up all kinds of germs and dirt and even after you sanitize them and clean them 100x with wipes you will still have that nagging/guilty feeling at the back of your head if and when you give the bottles back to your kids.

Luckily, I came across these BooginHead SippiGrip. Although they were meant for sippycups, they also work great with baby bottles of any shape and size!

So I got one each for my two little ones and I'd say they have made my life a lot easier!! They come really cheap and they are worth much more than their price.

The velcro straps are washable, durable, and non-toxic. I love that you can use them not only with strollers, but with highchairs and car seats as well.

These could also work for toys but I'm using Amber's old BooginHead Pacifier Holder for that. But since I bring more than one toy in case Amber gets bored, I've purchased the Baby Buddy Secure-A-Toy. It works just as well (for toys, not bottles) and is much cheaper. :)

These are now staples for my baby bag and it only takes seconds to attach and remove them. No hassle at all!

If you really think about it, both these products are very simple but it took a mom to invent them! :)

I can't get over how amazing these are and my only regret is that I didn't find them sooner.

Here are some photos of the booginhead sippygrip in action:

At Dubai Mall.

At Festival City

At Mirdif City Centre

Let me say it one last time, I LOVE this product!

Favorite Of The Week!

2011-08-26T14:22:00.000-07:00

My favorite rice crackers in the world are the Bin Bin Rice Crackers and I only recently realized that the rice crackers I've been buying at the Korean grocery when I was pregnant with Amber was a different brand!

I asked my mom to buy me three huge packs from New Jersey (which she did) and I only noticed that it wasn't BinBin after I took a picture of it. It tasted exactly the same, if not, it was very very close!

I asked for it and opened the first pack as soon as my mom sat down in our flat and I finished the pack barely five hours after she arrived. I finished the second pack by her third day in Dubai, and at that rate I was trying so hard to hold back.

before and after. I finished it while my kids were asleep. :)

There's a lot of rice crackers being sold in groceries but I swear they don't taste anywhere close to these two and sadly I can't seem to find them here in Dubai. :(

Mama's Back In Dubai!! :)

2011-08-26T14:03:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago my mom arrived from New York armed with lots of goodies for her little palangga's (me included).

The kids were thrilled! Especially Kaden.

My mom was pretty amazed at how much our Amberbug has grown since she held her last February (Amber was barely 4 months old then).

Amber: Hmmm who is this lady who keeps kissing me? She seems familiar...

Mama can't get over how heavy bugbug is.

We were a bit (like almost two hours) late in picking her up at the airport and I was scared that she already booked the next flight going home to the Philippines while waiting. Good thing she was in great mood and was just having iced coffee.

We were late because we had to attend the baptism of my latest and littlest (for now) godson Simon Reuben. :)

With Jenny (Reu's mommy) and Joy.

Outfit: Top: H&M, Palazzo Pants: Topshop, Shoes: Topshop.

We got our first decent family picture that night. Thanks to my mom!

I'm happy and thankful that I'm no longer alone with the kids. My dad is arriving in a few weeks and they will be taking the three kids home with them so Art and I can have some mommy and daddy time, but I'm not counting on it until we're on board the plane. For now all I can do is pray that our plans push through this time.

I Kiss My Life

2011-08-26T13:56:00.000-07:00

I kiss my life everyday. :)

Took The BB Plunge!

2011-08-26T09:25:00.000-07:00

No, I did not get a blackberry! :)

I've been reading positive review and raves about BB creams for a few years now (yes years! I'm so late in my interest!), and finally I started getting curious. It has more to do with my quest to find a good [temporary] replacement for my depleted sunblock. So I did a lot of research and found out that one of the best ones out there is the one from Missha.

For the benefit of those who don't know what BB creams are, BB stands for Blemish Balm. This is the alleged "beauty secret" of flawless Korean stars which I'm not buying because I'm pretty sure they were born with their light flawless skin, but a lot of people did and thus the BB craze was born. It's been said that the formula came from German dermatologists who prescribed it to post laser patients because it has healing, soothing, and skin-regenerating properties while providing a good coverage for post laser scars and redness.

In a nutshell, the BB cream claims to be an "all-in-one" beauty product. It is a tinted moisturizer, sunblock, anti-wrinkle, skin-lightening cream with healing properties to soften, smoothen, and refine skin while concealing all types of pigmentation, discoloration, acne and other blemishes. The coverage is said to be light enough so it won't clog pores but obvious enough to cover what is needed. Sounds too good to be true, I know, but it really got me intrigued.

I'm not a big make up person but I like to look presentable when I go out and usually with my three kids, I don't have the luxury of time to put on make up (and even just powder my nose) before leaving. :( Which is why I was all for the idea of skipping the application of other skin products and makeup in favor of this BB cream.

Incidentally, while I was in Mirdif City Center a few weeks ago, I saw a newly opened Missha shop so I decided to put their available BB creams to test.

Well, I only ended up trying two because I didn't realize there was a LOT to choose from.

I chose the Missha M Perfect Cover B.B. Cream SPF 42 PA+++ 21 Light Beige, 1.69oz, 50ml over the MISSHA M upgraded BB B.B. Cream- MATTE VITA BB CREAM SPF20 because of the higher Spf coverage although I felt that the latter was more moisturizing for my skin.

Since I very rarely step out of our flat, I think I've only tried this product five times since I bought it three weeks ago, which is why I can't really say for sure if it has caused any improvement in my skin. However, I did find it easy to use and I like that it's so light that it doesn't look and feel like I have any makeup/powder on. It gave my skin a light, matte finish which I'm not used to because I prefer a more dewy look (which is normally what I get when I forget to put powder on). What I loved most is that I didn't have to "retouch" (I always forget to do that anyway) anytime during the day and I came home every time with skin coverage that looked exactly like it did 8-10 hours before.

Overall, I'm happy with this beauty product and I'm planning to use it as my everyday "on-the-go" regimen. I'll put my Pigeon face powder, which I've been using since I was in college and came highly recommended by my dermatologist, to a rest for now and see how it goes.