Of life and an angel

Sharing the pain

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:39:00 +0000

A father whose baby is diagnosed with spina bifida wrote me an email the other day. He sounded worried and sad for his child's predicament. I remembered the day when I learned that Anya has hydrocephalus. I pictured her as a baby with a very large head, sunset eyes, few hair -- someone who has been painted by our local media. When I went to the neuro surgeon, he discussed to me what to expect about Anya - she may have abnormal intelligence, a cripple -- in other words, she is not going to be normal. But for me, she is. She is just perfect.

I am attempting to complete a blog about Spina Bifida in the Philippines. My capacity is to research about it - qualitatively and quantitatively. I would want to do a census, go to every barangay health center and ask if there is one in their community. I might start in LB, then the nearby barangays. I really don't know how to start. But I know, one day, this will come -- create an about this congenital condition, eventually help our lawmakers create a law that requires milk and bread to have folate on it, have partnership with neuropediatricians and nurses on how to take care of kids with spina bifida.

As of now, this is still my dream. Create the social landscape of spina bifida in the country - get the numbers, have support groups, do a paper . . . I hope our dear Lord will guide me through.

This is for you Anya. What mommy does is for you.

Inspiring and delicious

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 09:10:00 +0000

Les and I have movie dates almost everyday. Everyday, we choose movies which we will watch later in the evening, or more often, after 12am. Last night, we came across a movie starring Meryl Streep and Amy Adams - who are my favorite actresses. The story is about Julia Child (played by Streep), an American cook who introduced French cuisine in America's households; and Julie Powell, a writer who claimed that she never finished anything. Powell, a natural foodie, attempted to cook all the recipes in Child's book Mastering the Art of French Cooking and blogged about it.

I will not go further on some movie technicalities like the script or direction, but I am impressed with set design, costume and acting abilities of the actresses. Since the movie Doubt, these girls never failed me. And I love them both in their musical movies - Meryl's Mama Mia and Amy's Enchanted. Brilliant brilliant beauties!

This movie is very inspiring and sends the message of hope to women who do not know where to put themselves. Both Julie and Julia found themselves creating a career out of the things that they like doing most - eat and cook. Their passion to cooking gave way to making their mark on America's kitchens.

I always tell my girlfriends who think that they are lost and bewildered to find do the things that they are most passionate about. Now, I have a specific example that it is possible to earn and enjoy at the same time. Julie and Julia.

The winning design, which was submitted by Mr Achilleus Coronel of the Philippines, was chosen

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 08:59:00 +0000

New logo for World Day for
Audiovisual Heritage
© UNESCO

After Anya's demise, her dad and I focused on things that we like doing - I teach and research, Les draws. To cope with grieving, Les drew and joined competitions. One day, I came across the Logo Competition of UNESCO for the World Audio Visual Heritage Day. As a former cultural officer and a self-claimed communication researcher, I encouraged Les to join this contest. Aside from the good prize pot, Les and I are for digitization of old files, music, entertainment and any other audio-visual and print resources. Les worked on this contest for quite awhile. He did this very seriously, thinking of the details of his logo thoroughly.

I am so glad he won. He deserves this.

I am so thankful to our Creator for this opportunity. We missed Anya so much today.

Thanks

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 09:37:00 +0000

Last week, I went to PGH to settle Anya's bill and donate two pulse oximeters for the Pediatric wards. The pulse oximeters were donated by the UPLB community - as organized by the UPLB De Molay Fraternity and the band, Sugarfree. Sugarfree held a concert for Anya's benefit. But since Anya left us, we decided to donate the proceeds to the Philippine General Hospital Department of Pediatrics.

This blog post is dedicated to all those who have helped us financially during Anya's sickness. I was able to seek help from Senators and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. Among the senators, I want to thank Sen. Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano, Sen. Rodolfo Biazon, Sen. Migs Zubiri, Sen. Loren Legarda, Sen. Chiz Escudero, Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, Sen. Kiko Pangilinan, Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile and Sen. Lito Lapid (who have written the endorsement letter for PCSO).

I sincerely thank my batchmate, Ebe Dancel and his bandmates, Sir Jal, Kaka and Ardee for their generous time and talent. Guys, you will help a lot of sick kids in PGH. You deserve your success. And of course the UPRHS Batch 93. Les and I are very grateful for all your prayers, support and concern. Ang galing talaga ng batch natin.

I still miss Anya everyday, but I am sure my little baby is happy in heaven. A lot of people have shown love recently - love to her and others.

Anya is in heaven

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 23:53:00 +0000

This reading taken from the Bible assures me that Anya is definitely with Jesus. This goes out to all mothers who have lost a child. Let us not worry, but be thankful that God assures us that our children are with Him.

Picture taken from here

Gospel
Mt 18:1-5, 10, 12-14
1 At this time the disciples came to Jesus and said, 'Who is the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven?'

2 So he called a little child to him whom he set among them.

3 Then he said, 'In truth I tell you, unless you change and become like little children you will never enter the kingdom of Heaven.

4 And so, the one who makes himself as little as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven.

5 'Anyone who welcomes one little child like this in my name welcomes me.

10 'See that you never despise any of these little ones, for I tell you that their angels in heaven are continually in the presence of my Father in heaven.

12 'Tell me. Suppose a man has a hundred sheep and one of them strays; will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hillside and go in search of the stray?

13 In truth I tell you, if he finds it, it gives him more joy than do the ninety-nine that did not stray at all.

14 Similarly, it is never the will of your Father in heaven that one of these little ones should be lost.

Pictures of me

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 18:13:00 +0000

I picked this from another blog and found it fun. I thought I would not be able to finish tonight (or this am) but I did. Most of the pictures were taken within the onset of a digital camera. I did not have much pictures when I was younger. This digital age brought in wonders such as the digital camera. After surveying my pictures and the instructions of this "article", I just realized that Anya really had an impact in my life. Most of the pics relate to her and her dad. I love you Daddy Les and Baby Anya!

A picture of me in my room

A picture of me on my recent bday

The youngest picture I can find of yourself in digital form. This was taken in, if I am not mistaken, Summer of 2003.

A picture of me in one of my favorite outfits. I just love maternity clothes!

A picture of me making a goofy face at the camera.

A picture me which I might have edited. This is my first friendster pic. Hahaha.

A picture of me being truly myself

My most recent picture. Taken July 30 @ Sugarfree's benefit concert for Anya

A picture of me being absolutely ridiculous.

A picture of a time in my your life that's over, but I wish it wasn't

A picture of me that I had no idea was being taken

A picture of me when I was different person than I am now. THIN.

A picture of me with someone I love.

A picture of how I'd like the world to see me.

A picture that describes how I'd like to spend every day.

A picture of a time when everything was changing.

A picture that makes my heart hurt.

A picture that makes my heart smile

A picture of one of the best days / nights of your life

Here's the list.
Here is the list:
1. a picture of you in your room
2. a picture of your very drunk
3. a picture of you on your birthday, or your favorite holiday
4. the youngest picture you can find of yourself in digital form.
5. a picture of you in one of your favorite outfits.
6. a picture of you making a goofy face at the camera
7. a picture you might have edited to make yourself more attractive
8. a picture of a night you regret
9. a picture of you being truly yourself
10. your most recent picture.
11. a picture of you being absolutely ridiculous.
12. a picture of you showing off a new haircut / color
13. a picture of a time in your life that's over, but you wish it wasn't
14. a picture of a time in your life that's over, and you couldn't be more thankful that it is.
15. a picture of you when you were anything but happy
16. a picture of you that you had no idea was being taken
17. a picture of you when you were a different person than you are now.
18. a picture of you with someone you love.
19. a picture of how you'd like the world to see you.
20. a picture that describes how you'd like to spend every day.
21. a picture of a time when everything was changing.
22. a picture that makes your heart hurt.
23. a picture that makes your heart smile
24. a picture of one of your best days / nights of your life

Try it out :)

Anya and love

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 06:27:00 +0000

Chichi did this drawing of Anya. Chichi tells me that Anya is now in heaven, smiling at us -- with big eyes. She always carries this bear angel and tell me that it was Anya. Chichi is a very bright, smart and talented girl. I am so thankful for having her around. She assures me everyday that Anya is doing well. Everytime Chichi sees me crying, she draws Anya - like this one.

As I reflected on losing Anya but loving her immensely, one message I got was:

Love is everlasting. When we feel love, God is with us. He wants us to know how much He loves us. He shares His love so we can share love too. His existence is proven with how we love and the fact that love exists. The love of a parent is the same with God's love. All love boils down to God. Difficulties are eased by love. If one is looking for love, just look for God and love is just right there. If we will love, accept, forgive, hope and trust in God, then the world will be peaceful.

God, through Jesus, came to this world to bring love and for people to realize that God cares for the sick, suffering and the children. We, who witnessed God's love should testify, write and share our everyday journey - no matter how ridiculous we may sound for others.

Life is not really a box of chocolates - because chocolates are good. But I move on everyday, trying to live normally despite of the grieving. Thank you for those who are continually praying for us. thanks so much.

UP Rural High school: Mighty as ever

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 11:49:00 +0000

Last Friday, 24 July 2009, my husband, Arlene and I attended the 80th Founding Anniversary of our highschool alma mater. I went to the University of the Philippines Rural High School (UPRHS) or Rural. In my high school years in 1989-1993, Rural was still inside the UPLB campus. Its building is now the Math Building in UPLB. Now, UPRHS is at PAciano, Bay Laguna, enjoying its wide and lush campus.

UPRHS boasts of the best and the brightest highschool students in Laguna and probably of Region IV-A. I can also say that it is one of the best highschools in the country, as proven by its high UPCAT (sometimes 100%) passing rates; a rigid student selection process and graduates who have excelled in their own chosen fields. Among our respected alumni are UP President Emerlinda Roman, National Scientist Clare Baltazar, Theatre Actor and Director Tony Mabesa, Nobel Prize Laureate and TOYM Awardee Felino Lansigan, award winning indie film director/actor Jerrold Tarog among others.

On December 19, 2009, UPRHS will once again hold its Grand Alumni Homecoming, entitled Mighty at 80. It is a whole day affair to be held at the UPRHS grounds. One of the highlights of the event is the two-car prize grand raffle draw, wherein the proceeds will be for the UPRHS Alumni Association endowment fund. Each ticket costs P500.00 - which will be used for the UPRHS scholarship funds and infrastructure development.

Coping with grief

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 07:37:00 +0000

In a scale of 1-10, 1 the lowest and 10 the highest, I can measure my grief of losing Anya, 10. I had been in pain for a bad break-up, a job lost, a friend's conflict, a fight with parents, losing a grandmother - but the extent of the pain with these are nothing compared to what I am feeling right now.

The break-up. My bad break-up happened in 2002, when I found out that my good for nothing ex beau has another girl who was 17 years old. He never loved me though, I hated to admit it then. The pain is not after the break-up but within the relationship itself. He was totally opposite of everything you would wish for a boyfriend to be - he gets drunk and makes a fool of himself, he is not pleasant looking, he lies constantly - not only to me. (I will not name him here). The pain I experienced then is sliced me up inside, that when I decided to break-up with him, I did not feel any remorse, resentment nor regret. I just felt relieved, that finally I got out. I somehow felt he used "gayuma" because I cannot seem to get out. But I did. Thankfully. However, this happened twice. Never learned but I did now.

I have been into conflicts with friends mostly due to female hormones, miscommunication and immaturity. Perhaps lasting relationships do go through conflicts to step up to a deeper level, and conflicts are portals to accept your friend more. Right now, I know I chose the right ones - no matter how many misunderstandings we have gone through. Unlike my exes, I am glad we are all friends until now. Coping with losing friends temporarily are easily remedied with having other friends. Only time is needed to mend the conflict and move on with our friendship. That is how simple it is, though still, there was pain.

But this. Losing Anya is really difficult to cope with. I have several ways of coping now:

1. Playing farm town - I am so engrossed in it. If I finish playing and see Anya's pic, I cry. So I guess, it is not a really good means of coping.
2. Playing with Chichi - This is probably the most effective means. Chichi gives me sincere happiness. She is very smart and I think she knows that I am in pain. She draws Anya as an angel or as a patient. Once, she drew Jesus holding the hands of Anya. Yesterday, she gave me a Winnie the Pooh baby, whose cheeks look like that of Anya's. When Anya was still in my tummy, Chichi hugs her everyday and learned to read the calendar to count the days of Anya's birthday. I know that she and Anya have a special bond. Before Anya died, Chichi laughed and said "Nakita ko si Goofy, may kasamang baby". Anya said goodbye to her first.
3. Bonding with girlfriends - One thing I noticed after Anya's demise is, my girlfriends are always around. They assure me that everything is going to be fine and we are going to have a healthy one. And more especially, that little Anya is watching over me and daddy.
4. And this blog. I want to share what I am going through. I want to share my prayers and how I am coping.
5. Family - My family is so nice to me now. They are always praying for Les and I.

I remember before, I find 5 ways to cope: pray, reflect, play with kids, keep a journal and have a hobby. My husband and I pray together, I reflect what I am going through with my friends, I keep this blog as a journal, I play with Chichi, and I am enjoying virtual farming - though I think I need to come up with something else.

So for those of you who are worried about us, please do not worry. Your prayers have kept us well. We understand that grieving is all a part of it. We really do miss Anya. And we do grieve. It is all a part of the plan, but we live, pray and hope. We know that Anya is very happy to be with Jesus in heaven. We are happy for her but we miss her. And we are very proud of her. Love you little Anya.

In times of sickness and death

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 09:35:00 +0000

I am not a fan of politics, nor any specific political clan. But let me share with you this prayer sent to me by my mother. Right now, I can know and feel what the Aquinos are going through with Cory Aquino's condition. Cory Aquino is no ordinary Filipino. One thing I really like about her is, despite of being a former president, she does not carry any title to her name, but simply Cory Aquino, Tita Cory or Mrs. Aquino - not Madame Cory, President Cory whatsoever is appropriate.

Cory reminds of me of my aunt I call Inay Dot. Inay Dot is prayerful. Despite of having no highschool degree, she headed the Parish Pastoral Council for several years and was really good at it. She and Cory have the same aura of authority, and blissfulness. She, like Tita Cory, suffers from an illness - she endured breast cancer and now, is suffering from stroke complications. Despite of it, she remained alive, strong and faithful.

Anya, Inay Dot and Cory Aquino are testaments of prayers and faith in God. During times of suffering, they assure us that our God is strongest during these times.

The prayer for happy death written by Cory Aquino asks for positivity, strength and endurance, not only for the sick but for the family as well.

Prayer for a happy death

By Corazon C. Aquino
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 03:41:00 07/10/2009

Almighty God, most merciful Father
You alone know the time
You alone know the hour
You alone know the moment
When I shall breathe my last.

So, remind me each day,
most loving Father
To be the best that I can be.
To be humble, to be kind,
To be patient, to be true.
To embrace what is good,
To reject what is evil,
To adore only You.

When the final moment does come
Let not my loved ones grieve for long.
Let them comfort each other
And let them know
how much happiness
They brought into my life.
Let them pray for me,
As I will continue to pray for them,
Hoping that they will always pray
for each other.

Let them know that they made possible
Whatever good I offered to our world.
And let them realize that our separation
Is just for a short while
As we prepare for our reunion in eternity.

Our Father in heaven,
You alone are my hope.
You alone are my salvation.
Thank you for your unconditional love, Amen.

Anya anya

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 10:20:00 +0000

It has been a month since Anya transcended. I miss her everyday, look at her pictures, and watch her videos; feel her and her scent. We went to her grave yesterday, we brought flowers and lighted a candle. When I saw in her grave "Anya D. Coronel, April 18, 2009 to June 08, 2009, I cried. I realized that she is definitely physically absent. Oh how a long for her to be with me physically. As I write this, I feel like crying.

Anya dear, my lovely Nye-Nye . . . I love you so much. Mommy thinks about you all the time. I am assured that you are healed and you are happy and my little angel. I realized that your spine is open because your wings were tucked inside it. And your head is a bit large because your halo was tucked inside it too. Daddy and Mommy are thankful for having you even for just a short time. Now I can say that you are the best person who has been with me. I love you baby.

A beautiful Anya

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:17:00 +0000

This is my husband's definition of a beautiful woman. I found this on his blog which he wrote in 2003. This poem just reminds me of Anya. Of how she has suffered physically but still showed a great deal of strength and courage. I still miss her everyday, I think this missing will never cease.

You don't look at a beautiful woman but you will surely see her
dressed up in nothing but her worned down ancient principles.
You won't hear her voice; you listen when she speaks.
Her presence does not burst in fragrance;
it is when she's gone that her pleasance lingers.
You will love everything about her
but she will love for no reason at all.

Anya's favorite music

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 07:17:00 +0000

Anya loved music, particularly Ennio Morricone’s Love Theme from Cinema Paradiso. After breast feeding, we put Anya to sleep. The only way that she can totally sleep is by listening to the Cinema Paradiso soundtrack. One time, we were near the piano. After her usual routine of catching sleep, I placed her in her crib then she cried. Her dad played the music in the piano. When we thought that she is sleeping already, Les stopped playing. Then she cried hard. And he resumed playing until she fell asleep.

When she was in the ICU, we made sure that Anya's music is played. Nurses observed that her vital signs are better if her music is being played.

A hopeful prayer

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 10:32:00 +0000

I prayed and wrote this prayer when i was waiting for Anya's healing. My heart was filled of hope that she will be with us at home as soon as she heals. However, God has other plans, He chose Anya to be with Him. In heaven, Anya is free of illness. But she is still very much loved here on Earth.

Anya Coronel is the best person who I came across with. My baby Anya has shown resilience and triumph over her adversities.

Anya's prayer of hope

Lord, as I wait for my healing, my heart is filled with hope,
I will play with my family and friends
I will love and be loved
I will share my blessings
I will sing for Your glory
And I will praise Your name.

My hope for my healing is endless
And I know that this hope will soon be truth, for Your mercy is great and Your love is everlasting.

Amen.

I admit that I am grieving. I have crying spiels everyday. I miss Anya terribly.
Having said these, I know that she is happy with the company of our Creator. She will never be unhappy for she is one of those little angels watching over us. All I have to do is learn the lesson, take care of myself and my husband, pray for understanding and discernment and trust in God for He knows whats best. I may have a few questions, and I am assured that these will soon be answered.

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 23:36:00 +0000

I wrote this prayer while reflecting on Anya’s situation. Anya, my brave little daughter is ever thankful to our dear Lord for giving her life.

Anya’s prayer of thanksgiving

Thank you for giving me life
Thank you for all the blessings
Give my doctors wisdom and knowledge to treat me
Give all those who have prayed for my healing blessings and love.
With all these, I am grateful. Amen.

A letter of thanks

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 23:38:00 +0000

My little Anya is now an angel. God has given us an angel who passed by this world for 51 days.

After her ordeal with her hydrocephalus shunting and lumbosacral meningocele repair, we were able to bring Anya home. However, after a week of being a normal baby, she went back to the hospital. Since we went back home, Anya had short fever episodes, which turned out to be UTI. Our pedia advised us to have her admitted in a hospital. From May 8-13, she was in LBDH and was given antibiotics for her UTI. On May 13, Anya had a seizure which forced us to transfer to PGH. It turned out Anya had ventriculitis and probably sepsis. Anya became worse after that. Doctors suspected sepsis, wherein her blood and urine culture revealed infection caused by Enterobacter aerogenes. On May 19, Anya was transferred to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit in PGH. Aside from sepsis, she had staphylococcus scalded skin syndrome, wherein her skin turned into large blisters. My baby was suffering from overwhelming infections - even overwhelming for an adult. For three weeks in intensive care, Anya fought her infections head on. Despite of blister filled skin, Anya cooperated well with her care givers. I cannot imagine the pain, and the discomfort that she has to endure, but Anya, stayed . . . fought hard.... and lived.

Les and I stayed with her all the way - running errands to buy medicine and supplies, process lab requests, request blood, go around soliciting funds from government institutions, asking around for blood donors. Having a patient in the ICU required us to be keep up 24/7. We were so positive that Anya will get well. She showed good vital signs and has been responding to medications on her first week in the ICU.

Family and friends were with us all throughout, offering prayers, support and even money. On average, we spent around 6,000 pesos per day for three weeks - but we never had no or lacked money. We were showered with financial help, making us able to help a few of our new found friends whose love ones are also in the ICU.

On her third week in the ICU, Anya's frail body was not able to take the blood transfusions and antibiotics anymore. On June 8 at 4:17pm, Anya freed herself from her physical suffering and joined our Creator. Les and I were there with her before she left her vessel. Everytime we leave the room during nurse or doctor endorsements, her heart stopped beating but was revived. Les and I decided to stay with her in the ICU because we felt that her spirit goes with us everytime we leave her. Before her last cardiac arrest episode, we spoke with her and gave her permission to leave this world and be with Jesus in heaven, were she can surely ride the bike, swim and run. Our little angel said her goodbye, making us assure her that we are not going to be lonely. We miss her terrible though.

We take this opportunity to thank you who have been with us for the past 51 days. We are very proud of our brave little daughter, who despite of her congenital birth defects, tried to fight the bigger disease - sepsis. Her doctors not only tried to treat her but prayed for her as well - they treated her well and were very generous with their time. The nurses believed in her fighting spirit. And we her parents, gave everything we can to assist her in her fight against infection. Our family have been with us, prayed for our new family, gave us company, helped out with securing blood donors and helped us out financially. Our friends (IRRI, from highschool and my brods and sisses at Kappa Epsilon and Theta Epsilon) have been with us all throughout, offering spiritual and financial support, blood donation, shelter (thank you Teny/Abet and Garry) and company. The sisters of the Franciscan Missionary Sisters of the Infant Jesus, have been with us and Anya - brought les and i merienda, prayed hard for Anya and listened to us if we get sad. Our priests, friends and relatives also assured us of endless prayers. Our clients, who understood our situation and did not give us strict deadlines. My friends and cousins who helped me seek medical assistance from various individuals and institutions. We also thank the random strangers who assured us of hope of Anya's situation, our new found friends at the Bahay Antayan and everyone who have hoped, prayed, thought of Anya during her 51 days here in our world. Most especially, I thank our good Lord for choosing us, as Anya's parents. We are very proud of our dear Anya. . . no words can describe our gratitude for that opportunity. Hay, we miss Anya soooo much. Our little angel watches over us. Anya thought us precious lessons on love, hope, humanity and faith.

Thank you everyone. Our love goes out to you.

When an angel was born

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 02:10:00 +0000

I lost my dear baby Anya to sepsis on 8 June 2009. Let me tell you her story through this blog. This is my letter to my family and friends who were with us during her first 12 days.

I delivered Anya through ceasarian section on 18 April 2009 at Los Banos, Laguna. Before I gave birth, we knew that Anya has congenital hydrocephalus (more popularly known as having water in the brain). I was quite prepped about what hydrocephalus is. I have spoken with a neurosurgeon who told us that to treat hydrocephalus, he will place a shunt on Anya two weeks after her birth. We were very excited with her birthday. My husband Les and I have prayed hard to have her delivered safely.

Unfortunately, Anya did not suffer from hydrocephalus alone. Her spine did not develop before birth (lumbosacral meningocele). My OB-Gyne was quite surprised with it since Anya did not show any spine trouble at her ultrasound. I was informed that my newborn daughter has to be rushed to the Philippine General Hospital for the immediate treatment of her spine. My husband and my mom went with her in PGH, while I was recovering from my c-section. After three days of rest, I immediately went to PGH to be with my new family.

Anya underwent her spine operation a day after her birth. The neurosurgeon did the procedure because her spine started to leak. After a week, Anya was subjected to another neurosurgical procedure to treat her hydrocephalus. Her pediatrician discovered that Anya suffered from blood infection. The water found in her head was also infected. Her temperature dropped to 35 celcius, she suffered from jaundice. She was never fed with milk for the first three days of her life. It was a difficult scenario for a first-time parent.

We saw how Anya took everything in a stride - responding very well to her antibiotics which lessened her infections making her suitable for her operations (and lessening the days we have to endure in the hospital). The non-stop blood tests, the tubes connected to her, the series of lab tests and most especially, two neurosurgical operations in nine days are things we have dealt with. Thankfully, Anya coped well and is now recovering at home. Our 12 day ordeal is now sealed with positive hope and gratefulness.

There are still a lot of things about Anya that we need to observe. Her legs are quite weak and she might be having bladder problems. And all those stuff that I have read about about her condition. All I have this time is the testament of prayers, concern, support and encouragement from friends and family. I thank those who have prayed hard for her recovery, for those who have expressed encouragement and support, for those who have contributed financially and for those who hoped for the best for my baby. Thank you everyone. Les, Anya and I are very grateful for everything. Please continue praying for our new family, especially for the complete recovery of our baby.

Sincerely,
Kaye -

Plato Rodizia: the great Los Banos, Laguna dining experience

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 08:49:00 +0000

Gary, Les and Manoy opened Plato Rodizia, Garden Barbecue. The guys have been pretty much on this for the past two to three months. Thankfully, we have been blessed to open restaurant on the latter days of September.

Plato Rodizia or Plato was conceptualized to give Los Banos, Laguna residents and visitors are different kind of dining experience. The boys worked so hard to achieve a good and relaxing ambiance and great food. What would a restaurant be without good food? Plato focused on grilled menu such as baby back ribs, lamb chops, pork and chicken kebab and liempo (which is a classic best seller). Apart from this, we kept vegetables and fruits within our menu to comply with health buffs, senior citizens and those who just love safe and nutritious food.

We offer German and local beer, kapeng barako -hot or cold, and eventually, Pinoy hot chocolate and more coffee flavors. There is so much to do, but one thing is for sure, Plato will keep on improving it's products and services. We want to give Los Banos, Laguna a dining pleasure and restaurant it truly deserves. So, when you travel to LB or in Laguna, make sure you put Plato Rodizia in your itinerary.

deadlines, angioplasty atbp

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 01:26:00 +0000

I have out in awhile. Too busy with work and married things to think about my own blogging. I blog for other blogs (http://www.manaygina.blogspot.com, http://www.brainbang-mindbullet.com) but just about contemporary things. I have been too focused on my papers, which I have been doing for the past 6 months or something. I am almost done - thank goodnes..

I missed the e-heads concert. Aw. My ely collapsed towards the end of the first set, which makes me sadder. Not too many know that I am an Ely Buendia fan. Well I am and I worship him like a matinee idol. It is not his boy-next-door charming face, or his witty but deep lyrics, or maybe his not so impressive singing voice - I just love him all together. I hope Ely will get well the soonest, and rest well. He has been through a lot lately. And of course, us fans, hope that if he has completely recovered, he will be in another eraserheads reunion concert and i will not miss that, ever. My husband, who is a non-eheads listener (how can i get someone like this - no regrets there) has no choice but to come with me.

The sun worshipper

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 05:41:00 +0000

The sun sets with its scorching warmth at Cuttack, India. I bid goodbye to a long tiring day, and felt its touch as it sits down for the day. I look forward to saying hello to the sun tomorrow - as I start a new day.

Meeting blues: Why impact is critical in rice breeding experiments

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Fri, 30 May 2008 01:33:00 +0000

Our team in the office had the "wet season" meeting. Every rice planting season, we have a meeting to prepare for the next one. Usually, it goes by wet and dry season since rice is dependent on rain and water. Sitting in the meeting for about one hour and a half is weird - I cannot understand a word. The breeders talk in jargons which are abstract concepts on my understanding - nematodes, OYTs, transplanting.

Rice breeding, is a complex system with its own language and culture. I learned that rice breeding is dependent on rains, should manage pests and other stresses - floods, drought, cyclones/storms, pest attacks, snails, rats, birds. The only tool that humans have against these stresses are proper management which in turn require money. We spend millions in doing these experiments. Investments are just staggering - rice breeding management entails - fertilizers, pesticides, net bags, weedicides, rat fences, pipe lines and labor. Drainage and irrigation are other expenses. That is when my work comes in. If farmers are unable to understand and apply the management requirements of a new rice variety - which promises tolerance to any natural stress, then all the experiments - and the amount spent on the experiment are useless.

Impact is critical to everyone - the donor, the scientists, the farmers.

http://www.oppositeofapathy.wordpress.com

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Sat, 10 May 2008 04:31:00 +0000

Converse, raise issues, ask questions, with the Young Turks - Atty. Adel Tamano, Prof. Danton Remoto, Mayor JV Ejercito, Mr. Gilbert Remulla and TG Guingona at their blog, Opposite of Apathy.

Laugh trip

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 03:22:00 +0000

I received this email from our Kappa Epsilon e-groups. This is really funny and worth sharing. enjoy!

In Philippine gameshows -

Host: Ano sa Ingles ang hinlalaki?
Contestant: Thumbmark

Host: Ano ang ginagamit ng mga swimmers para bumilis ang kanilang
paglanggoy?
Contestant: Fast Shoes

Host: Kung si Superman ay may Lois Lane , ano naman ang kay Robinhood?
contestant: Pana.

Host: Anong ang inuupuan pag nakasakay sa kabayo?
contestant: Silya

Host: Ano ang karaniwang hugis ng manibela?
contestant: Triangular

Host: Hindi ito boob, hindi ito tube, pero tinatawag ng iba na boob
tube. Ano ito?
contestant: Bra

Host: Kelan ang Pasko sa Davao ?
contestant: PASS

Host: Anong tawag sa isdang hindi bilasa?
contestant: tuyo

Host: Ilan ang legs ng cartoon character na si Spiderman?
contestant: Eight

Host: Ano ang nationality ng sanggol na may amang Filipino Catholic at
Protestanteng Ina?
Contestant: American

Host: Merong four seasons: winter, spring, summer, at fall. kelan
nahuhulog ang mga dahon?
contestant: sa storm

Host: Anong bukol ang makikita sa leeg ng mga lalaki?
contestant: Kiss mark

Host: ano ang kulay ng orange juice kapag nilagay sa blue na baso?
contestant: Violet
Host: anong malambot na bahagi sa ulo ng sanggol?
contestant: batok

Host: magbigay ng bagay na ipini-pin sa damit?
contestant: Hairpin

Host: Ano ang nagpapaalat sa itlog na maalat?
contestant: Puti

Host: ano ang tawag sa mga needle-like projections na nakasabit sa
ceiling ng mga caves?
contestant: Ice pick

Host: ano ang tawag sa plastic bag na lalagyan ng basura?
contestant: plastic bag na nilalagyan ng basura.

Host: anong C ang paboritong kainin ng mga rabbit?
contestant: Cacamber

Host: ang urine ay liquid: TRUE OR FALSE
contestant: False

Host: anong ang system ng Math na gumagamit ng symbols instead of numbers?
contestant: China ?

Host: anong ginawa ni Moses sa Red Sea ?
contestant: Stop

Host: what is the capital of the Philippines?
contestant: P

Host: anong klaseng sapatos ang ginagamit ng mga basketbolista?
contestant: adidas

Host: sino ang pumatay kay David?
contestant: Goliath

host: ano ang tawag sa taong walang suot sa paa?
contestant: Slipperless

Host: kung ang bulag ay blind ano naman ang english ng pipi?
contestant: Walang salita

Host: anong sea creature ang kalahating kabayo at kalahating isda?
contestant: syokoy
Host: ano ang nasa gitna ng donut?
contestant: palaman

Host: ang salad dressing ba ay damit
contestant: (sandaling nagisip) YES!

Host: Anong klaseng sasakyan ang inaayos sa hangar?
contestant: sirang sasakyan

host: ano ang nilalagay sa sewing machine?
contestant: lagari?

host: ilan taon meron sa leap year?
contestant: 365

host: anong hayop ang di-nakakakita sa sa araw ngunit nakakakita sa dilim?
contestant: flashlight

host: Ano ang tawag sa laro kung saan ang dalawang team ang
naghihilahan sa isang lubid?
contestant: tumbang-preso

host: kung manicure sa kamay, ano ang sa paa?
contestant: kuko

host: ano ang isunusuot ng mg boksingero sa ulo nila bilang proteksyon?
contestant: Sumbrero

host: ano ang tawag sa laman sa loob ng buto: marrow or muscle?
contestant: karne

host: para saa ang anti-dandruff shampoo?
contestant: kuto

host: anong englis ng ampalaya?
contestant: asparagus

host: ilang metro mayroon sa 300 meters?
contestant: 3000

host: anong sasakyan ang gamit sa tour de france?
contestant: Kalesa
Host: ano ang kasunod ng kidlat?
contestant: sunog

host: saan matatagpuan ang Quebec ?
contestant: afghanistan

host: tinuturo ang G-clef sa anong subject?
contestant: Mathematics

host: ano ang halaman na tumitiklop kapag ito nahawakan?
contestant: Hiya-hiya

host: ano ang itlog na ayon sa iba, nakakapagpatigas ng tuhod?
contestant: TAMA!

host: ano ang isinusuot ng taong walang buhok?
contestant: Kalbo

host: anong zip ang ginagamit sa pagbukas ng pantalon?
contestant: pagbukas ng bag

host: anong ang first word sa stanza ng JIngle bells?
contestant: dyingel?

host: anong ang tawag sa taong nagiisa?
contestant: home alone

host: Sa anong bansa nakatira ang mga Hindu?
contestant: hindunesia

host: kung ang ubo ay sa bibig, ano naman ang sa ilong?
contestant: Vicks

host: ano ang kulay ng strawberry?
contestant: ube

host: anong klaseng animal ang Afghan Hound?
contestant: Afghanistan

host: sinong American president ang nagkapolyo noong 1920s?
contestant: Apolinario Mabini..

photo ops

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 02:55:00 +0000

Happy birthday Les!

I am sorry I cannot be with you on your birthday.

But I will only be gone for five days. I know you will be waiting.

Kaye

Wonder Woman

noreply@blogger.com (kaye) — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 01:13:00 +0000

I got this quiz from Joffin. I think it's cute.

Your results:
You are Wonder Woman

Wonder Woman		85%
Green Lantern		85%
Supergirl		70%
Hulk		65%
Spider-Man		60%
The Flash		60%
Robin		55%
Iron Man		55%
Superman		50%
Catwoman		50%
Batman		45%

You are a beautiful princess
with great strength of character.

Click here to take the Superhero Personality Quiz