Sweet Nothings

Spoiled Surprise

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 22:41:00 +0000

My husband and I got stuck in the hospital for the past 5 days, it's just wonderful when friends would visit. So here we are gathered in our room with some of our friends, while talking I was fixing my bag, a co-worker of my husband (Princess) saw the bag, this red bag below.

The old surprise: it has been my favorite bag since then. I wonder if the new one will impress me. Hmmm...

She was like: "it's the bag" I knew immediately that she's one of the people who helped my husband choose the bag above for my birthday back in 2008.

It all started with my old red tote. Princess accidentally slipped that another bag is set to be shipped from Canada or the US (I didn't hear it clearly) but for sure, it's another bag that my husband ordered.

It was a surprise, now I know that I have something coming, and to hold the excitement, I didn't ask for the specifications, like the type of bag, the brand, the color, all I know he bought another one for me (again).

All this time, I was totally clueless until we had that conversation with Princess. I think Princess didn't know that it was a secret. Anyway, thanks Princess. I'm very excited! This is the only surprise from my husband that got spoiled. Bottomline, I am very blessed to have married a wonderful person full of surprises. There's no occasion to celebrate, but here he is brewing another unforgettable memory in my life.

It's A Brand New Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 03:38:00 +0000

Each of us are always given an experience as a learning curve in life. Well, my experience for the past 2 weeks has been very challenging. It was my first time to be placed on the spot when I should make a fast decision, where I must show strength even I feel weak inside... I may say that this was the most challeging my whole life. It brushed through 2 of the major roles I play---being a mother to my son and being a wife and a partner to my husband.

Physically, mentally, emotionally, my husband and I are both trying to be strong. We laugh on some things even in this situation. I guess being positive made things easier and faster. Throughout our 6 years of being married this was the ultimate challenge for us. Instead of feeling devastated, I looked at it as an opportunity in disguise. An opportunity to test and improve one's patience, a chance to think of a smarter approach, to be more understanding and flexible. I am just thankful that we were given the chance to become knowledgeable of the cause, I was able to take him to a hospital that made him feel better sooner than expected.

As a mother, being away from my little boy drove me crazy. He can't stay with us in the hospital, had to bring him to my parent's for the mean time. There were nights when my mom would call, because Franky was crying calling out for his mama and papa.

But today is a brand new day. I wasn't expecting that the sun will show up, but it did. First thing I saw from my window was hope, happiness and freedom. Freedom to finally breath some fresh air. We don't really like hospitals.

What will happen next is still a mystery. All I want to do right now, is to go home with my boys. Finally, my husband was given a go signal to be discharged anytime from today until monday. No matter how long, that is still good news to us.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ the Father of compassions and God of all comfort:Who comforts us in all of our afflictions that we may be able to comfort those who are in every affliction through the comforting with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For even as the sufferings of the Christ abound unto us, so through the Christ our comfort also abounds ~2Corinthians 1: 3-5

When 2 Events Meet

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 09:51:00 +0000

I wanna bang my head on my computer desk right now.

Just when I confirmed to Chris of The Mommy Journey that I will be attending ParenTIN Talk Series 3, I was told that another activity was set on that very same date. Well, the second activity isn't sure yet, but if it's going to push through, I will be prioritizing it because it is an out of town gig of my husband, and with his come back to the music scene, I wouldn't want to miss it. Plus, we might go diving too. Who wouldn't want that right?

But! I am also feeling awkward and sad because I told Chris that I will be coming with my mom, and I even invited my sister-in-law and another friend of mine who's going to become a mother soon. What a situation right?

ParenTIN Talk is a great event. The topics for this talk is going to be helpful not only for us who are already parents, but also for those who have plans on having children in the near future. I have been wishing to attend even just a single session , especially if it is hosted by Tintin Bersola- Babao herself. And I'm thankful that Chris sent me a personal text message as an invite. Another reason I wanted to attend is to be able to meet and greet some bloggers for the first time.

So what do I do? Actually I can't figure anything as of the moment. I plan to wait at least a week before September 11. Once the out of town gig is 100% sure, I just gotta break the bad news to Chris. Or if you're already reading this, I hope the trip will be moved so I can still go and enjoy ParenTIN Talk with you and the rest of the parents.

I say: "Semi-charmed"

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:22:00 +0000

So Much Has Happened for the past 2 weeks, and here I have an empty blog. I never felt this way before--- getting bored. Or maybe it's just that time when I feel to keep it private. I 've been hanging out with some of our friends lately, and I guess it broke the chain that's keeping me indoors for the past 3 years. Within 2 months, or let's say within weeks so much has changed.
1. I'm happy for my parents because in a few months I will be revealing their biggest accomplishment. That surprise is one of the things that's keeping me busy on weekends too.
2. Like I said, I get to hangout with our friends more often.

It's my first time to share the circle whom I've been hanging out with for the past years. Same friends who completed our wedding, Uncles and Aunties to Franky. Actually, we're more of a family. Love you guys! Hugs!

3. Planning for another vacation.
4. September is almost here. Not only it marks that the holiday season is around the corner, but it is also the birth month of my son and the feast of Our Lady of Mediatrix in Lipa.
5. My husband and I agreed on a common gift for ourselves this Christmas.

-photo source-Yeah, as early as August everything is set already.

6. I enjoyed 3 movies this month: The Last Airbender, Inception and Salt.

7. Celebrated 2 birthdays just last Sunday.

Well, it's good to have a normal life. This I can say is the so-called "semi-charmed" kind of life. Realistically speaking, there will always be directions heading downwards and upwards.

Meaning: There will always be times when we get bored out of our wits, feeling dull thinking that we need more color into our lives... and aching for something more... but at the end of the day, even with the smallest things left unnoticed, something good will still happen.

*A busy weekend it may seem, but the finish product will be very rewarding.

*Shared a simple dinner, but the company was great!

*A vacation? we're not yet there, but planning makes it fun.

*September comes once a year, it's in the middle, but it's full of occasions, that's why it's one of the much awaited month for us.

*It may not be a brand new car, but being able to have a vehicle of our own and being able to maintain it well are things to be thankful for.

*A movie date means quality time with the family and my one and only.

*Birthdays: A chance to celebrate for the gift of family and love for life.

It may not be the most extravagant, but it will definitely make you feel complete, and that's important.

New Bedroom Footsies

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 08:30:00 +0000

While my husband was out over the weekend, I did a little shopping. Aside from the goodies I got from my Dad, I was able to find the cutest bedroom slippers in the department store. It was about time I replaced my old ones. Well, I also have a pair which I use around the house, and another exclusively for the bedroom. These slippers keeps my feet comfortable, relaxed and healthy. And it feels good to walk around with something soft and fluffy.

At night, I match it with a pair of socks and pajamas. I always make it a point that when I'm already inside our bedroom, everything is set to get some pampering. Meaning: I just finished a warm bath complete in pajama, the air conditioner is on, my favorite show is up, all I have to do is to lay down on the bed hugging my pillow. Of course same goes with the rest of the family.

As a matter of fact, my husband also has his own pair bedroom slippers.

It's one of the things that he really loves. Not all of his friends knows about this soft side of him., Ooppps! Boys can wear bedroom slippers too you know. When my husband comes home, it makes his feet cool down from a hot and hard day of work.

Thanks to my son for lending me his play mat for the last picture :)

Express Yourself and Embrace It!

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 02:53:00 +0000

"I am responsible for my life and always maintain the power I need to be positive and have joy."

-photo source-

This is an affirmation and realization I discovered first thing today. Nobody can tell me when to be happy or not ,except for myself. It's how I level my perspectives in life, it's how I view things, and how I control my emotions.
Never let "situations", and "people" dictate what you should feel. If you feel like crying, cry it out, if it feels like it's something exciting, do it! jump for joy! if you think you deserve happiness, just smile, shrug it off then laugh it out. Never fear what others will say towards your freedom of self-expression. Keep in mind, that we just can't please everybody and God granted you that privilege to express your feelings, nobody else.

Wishing Weekend Is Over

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 14:59:00 +0000

When everyone is praying for weekend to come, I on the other hand, is wishing for it to be over. And maybe some of you will understand if I say, that my other half is going somewhere and he is leaving first thing Friday morning. First thing and our first time when we will not be spending our weekend together. It's a 3 or 4 day affair. It's work for him.

I just finished packing the things he will be needing for this trip. I still can't absorb the reality of it. I'm so attached to my husband. He completes me.

And ladies, I can't imagine what our fellow wives are undergoing whose husbands are working far away from the family. I salute you for being so strong. I mean, here I am acting like a baby. For me 4 days is like 1 week or a month or even a year. Every time my husband goes somewhere, there's this space in me being pulled away. Well I never thought that I will be not as flexible, but I'm slowly getting the hang of it.

I was thinking of some activities with my son. Aside from having a date with my little boy at the mall, there's nothing left but to stay at home, do whatever we can accomplish and play the waiting game until papa bear comes home.

Among The Boys

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 08:26:00 +0000

These games may not be familiar to most of you. Maybe you've heard about it. But what I'm trying to share here is the unique experience of a girl being the only female in a guild or group of male players online. On the gaming perspective, how does it feel to be one of the boys?

1. I'm treated like a princess. Well, not literally, but that's how I feel every time I know I'm taken cared of.

2. Great respect. Since I'm the only girl in the guild, even if my shots at some quests or raids are a bit off, the rest of the guys are still very courteous. Instead of nagging at me, they teach me and assist me with whatever I need to learn.

3. Being part of a guild with my husband is a one of a kind gaming experience.

4.I get a lot of freebies!

For every online game like The World of WarCraft one should always buy original. Since I'm just new in the guild, I bought my account straight from the Blizzard Store. From the first installment, to the second. But guys, these games aren't cheap, that's why it took me some time deciding whether I should get the third part or not . Like I said, with the guild I'm in, some of the guys were very nice to buy me the third part. They even surprised me. My husband met up with Mr. Mu so that they can install it under my account without me knowing it.

The next thing I know, I am now playing Wrath of The Lich King and trying my best leveling up to 80.

And our latest, was the new StarCraft II. StarCraft has been the most awaited game within the past years. If I'm not mistaken, the first StarCraft was released back in 1995 or 1996, and it was a big hit. The story on how we acquired this game was very simple. I can say, everything was done "all for the love of gaming". Summer of this year, it was announced that Blizzard will release StarCraft2 sooner than expected.

A Collectors Edition is up for grabs for those who will make reservations. It's kinda heavy on the pocket for when we found out that it will cost $165 per CE set. Of course it came with a lot of freebies, but $165 is still big for us. So we decided to wait for the price of regular box set to go down. Since we're part of a group of gamers, and everybody was just waiting for my husband and me to have it, a very nice person bought it for us instead.

You know what, after expressing my thoughts on this blog, I think I forgot to mention that we have wonderful friends to be thankful for. Some of us were just mere strangers to one another when we started this group. But as the guild began to add members and we started playing together, friendship blossomed.

So there, let's hear it: Thank God for StarCraft, thank God for the World of WarCraft, thank God for instances, and most of all, thank God for this rare gift of Friendship.

By the way, Thank you Mr. JSP for the Original StarCraft II T-Shirt!

No String Attached

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 02:36:00 +0000

This is one achievement I am very grateful for. I'm very supportive of what my husband is very passionate about. At his gig last Saturday, the crowd at The Penguin Bar loved his music. And with that, every time my husband was asked on how he manages to play music and work , all he answered was: I have a very supportive wife.

I learned to open myself to all kinds of music because of my husband. And it was very fulfilling to appreciate the core of each genre.

Through His music I met new friends and I also learn from this people. His music brought out the best in me. It gave me an open mind, it's very liberating and knowing that my husband is the one giving me the music to my ears, it boosted my confidence. From the moment he started playing again, I made sure that I will be present not only to give support, but to inspire him more.

Last Saturday, when we arrived, as he was setting up his guitar, he noticed that he was missing a guitar string. I don't know how to play guitar but I felt the pressure. I told him that: I know you're a good guitar player, you can make it sound like you're not missing a string. I just know that he can work his magic. And he did, he blew the audience away. He played perfectly, better than having all the strings attached. Nobody noticed, but we told sir Richie Quirino after the gig.

Dolf: Hey Richie, I was scared to tell you earlier, but the whole time we played, I was missing a string.

Sir Richie: I didn't noticed. As long as you play from the heart, it doesn't matter.

Which is true. My husband enjoyed his play, his improvisation was great, it was one of the highlights of our evening.

Saturday Was Date Night

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 11:01:00 +0000

Last Saturday, my husband and I decided to take a day-off from our usual. Friday, from his office, my husband called me just to ask me out on a date. I really love it when he does that. The manner of asking was just too sweet, as if he was courting me again. It's nice to keep the very same spark that made us one since the day we met, to those moments that binds us to this lifelong relationship.

As a matter of fact, being traditional was one of the things that made my man different from the rest of the guys I dated. You know, asking a girl for a date, dinner, a movie we both want to see, then coffee. It reflects how respectful he is.

Even now that we're married, we still spare some space for our "Us Time". The day started by bringing our son to my parents house. Then we went to Greenbelt 3. Greenbelt is one of our favorite hang-out place. Everything is there. We didn't have a hard time looking for a restaurant. We visited our favorite shops too. Saturday was just for us. We took our time and we cherished our moment together, the food we like the most and the movie we've been dying to see.

After reserving our sits for Inception, we had dinner at Marciano's. The food was really good, the conversation was lively, we laughed, we made plans, we smiled... love is in the air.

And yes, we were very excited about the movie. We're both Sci-Fi fanatics, and we love it every time a flick introduces something new or extraordinary to us. INCEPTION--- on a different post.

After the movie we went to Penguin bar where my husband was set to play Jazz. Met a few more people from his circle, enjoyed my Margarita. Later, 2 of our friends came, and we were very happy that they joined us on this special night. we looked for a coffee shop around Makati after, but it was raining hard so we opted for the nearest McCafé.
My husband and I would rather spend for food or for the perfect place where we can have some private time, than buy expensive gifts for each other. I mean, we can spend hours in a restaurant just talking and even debating while we're munching. At least our relationship blooms not because of some material thing, but because we still continue to discover each other's common interests and even our differences.

A Scanner

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 08:48:00 +0000

It's kinda weird that until now,we haven't bought a new scanner. It's easy to buy any scanner. But with the life of the old one we had, we wanted something the same. Something that is durable and will last for the next 5 years. An a3 scanner is a good option. It's still on top of our list. We're just waiting gathering our funds, because we have other things t buy too.

Portable TV

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 08:33:00 +0000

It has always been a thought to me on whether I should get a portable TV for our car. When stuck in traffic, I sometimes take a quick look at the car beside us, and I see them watching the evening news in the car. When alone or out of town and handheld TV is one of the things that's easy to pack, and at the same time will keep you company.

Of Leveling Up and Multiply

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 14:37:00 +0000

Hey guys! this mom is quite busy and pressured with a lot of things. Well, one of the pressures I have right now is leveling up my W0W character to 80. Yeah, pretty serious for me. Especially because every month, I shed out cash just to keep my game going. It's fun by the way, so money is not a problem. I have ZERO posts again. Most of the things that's been happening to me and my family are too personal to share here on my open blog, I post it on Multiply instead. I uploaded some photo albums too. I've been busy planning some family activities for the next 2 months, and boy, time goes by so fast. The next thing I will be preparing for is the holiday season.

Next weekend, my husband's not going to be around, I'm really sad. But he promised me something for tomorrow. So there, a quick glimpse of what I've been doing lately. Over-all, it's just all about the World of Warcraft and Multiply.

Let's pray for a sunny weekend! Have a great one guys!

What A Saturday!

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Sat, 31 Jul 2010 04:13:00 +0000

This must be my worse Saturday ever! I even need to blog about it because my rants will not fit a shoutout box (lol!). Last night, I was already gushing with disappointment. Well for the past weeks the garbage people changed their time for garbage pick-up from mid-afternoon now, early morning. "I can't believe that I need to wake up early just to take out the trash, ON A SATURDAY!" If only we could take it out the night before, but sadly, it's not allowed in our place. The homeowner's association won't allow it, and there's penalty for it. What can I do right?

So, I'm all awake and ready to face another day. The sun "was" up. After preparing breakfast, I started with my laundry. In just a few minutes, my washing machine stopped, error was detected, and it started raining. In other words, something went wrong with my washing machine, I didn't even finish my first batch of laundry, then it started raining hard. I was like "Come on, Give me a break!" I just can't believe that all these are happening on a weekend.

Facts of life, there's no such thing as a perfect day. Might as well laugh it off. A few hours ago, I was really grumpy. Now, I don't see the point on being cranky at all, it will ruin the rest of my day. Found it pretty hilarious later on. It's one of those days that you just can't control or predict on what's going to happen next.

Went to my kitchen instead, prepared a good meal for lunch. Now, I see hope for the half day remaining to be awesome. Have a great weekend!

Our Bedtime Routine With Johnson's Baby Bedtime

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 12:51:00 +0000

Share with us your bedtime routine and win JOHNSON´S® Baby Bedtime products!!! (click to join)

Sleep is one of the most important factors in releasing growth hormones, most especially for very young babies.While your baby sleeps, her little body produces 3x more growth hormones.

The good news is there is a way to promote better sleep for your baby: through a consistent nightly bedtime routine.

Learn more about the JOHNSON´S® Baby Bedtime Routine, clinically proven to stretch your baby´s sleep by as much as 23%.

In addition to the JOHNSON´S® Baby Bedtime Routine and products, there are countless other ways you can help your baby fall asleep and even share bonding moments in the process!

0o0o

Getting ready for bed is one of the things that I truly enjoy with my son. As parents, my husband and I consider this as one of our precious bonding moment with our child. And since birth, bath time is the most anticipated by my little boy. I have been using Johnson and Johnson products as a kid and believe me, up to this very moment it's part of my shopping list. I have my own baby lotion, cologne and the ever soft Johnson and Johnson baby powder. When the bedtime collection came out, I immediately tried it and without a question, it became my ultimate J and J product.

Our nightly routine starts with my child finishing dinner, brushing his teeth and taking a warm bath with Johnson and Johnson Bedtime Wash. The sweet scent of Lavander relaxes the body and soothens the mind. From my son's bedtime wash to his baby powder, down to his lotion, it's all Bedtime products. When all set to take a good night sleep, I read him his favorite book. Sometimes, it's the other way around, he's the one reading it to me. We also say a good night prayer and we take a little time talking and giggling. As he closes his eyes, I give my son a good massage. It's a routine ever since he was a baby and I still continue it now that he is 5 years old.

Early last year, I received a book, a gift from my parents. It serves as a guide on massages for children. There are spots in the child's body that's needed to be reached and areas should be handled with great caution.

Please read a related entry here: Healing Touch For Children a book by: Mary Atkinson

A massage routine is considered as a healing method.

Encourage better-quality sleep, leading to an improved temperament.
Encourages a healthy immune system, helping to prevent fight infections.
Provides a valuable opportunity to share time together---having fun.
Builds trust and intimacy through non-verbal communication.
Tales away child's mind from worries and doubts.

Basic Massage Routine---head, shoulder and back

This series of movements takes around 7-10 mins. Perform it gently with soothing strokes.

First fold---resting your hands on your child's shoulders
Back Circles---Stroking your hands up and around your child's back at the shoulder blade area.
Back Rubbing---Rubbing across the upper back, tops of the shoulders, upper arm in small zigzag movements.
Shoulder Kneading---Gently knead the soft flesh beneath on your child's shoulders.
Beating On The Upper Back
Back Stroking
Arm Patting
Arm Kneading
Shoulder Stroking
Neck Rubbing
Head Rubbing
Hair Shampooing
Tabla On the Head---Gently drum the pads of your fingers in a random fashion all over your child's head.
Head and Shoulder StrokingTemple Circles
Forehead Stroking

Best with Johnson and Johnson Bedtime Lotion. A good massage helps with the development of the skeletal, muscular and psychological aspects of the infant/child.

My little boy sleeping well at 8 months

A mother or a father's touch helps make them feel relaxed and at ease. The gift of security is important for the child's early growth and development.

GT: How Emotional Can You Get

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 06:59:00 +0000

How emotional can you get? Let's put it this way, when I became a mom, I always "try" to control my feelings. I need to be stronger and wiser on gauging things, to a point that most of the time I just laugh at certain situations or I simply ignore them.

When I talk about situations, these are scenarios concerning my son, my husband and the whole family. It's the same when it comes to my personal encounters. I used to be a cry- baby, I 'm not a fighter. When I get into situations, I just turn my back and cry. Most people underestimated me being that emotional Being. It's different now, motherhood blessed me to become a stronger person. I don't think twice anymore, if you hurt me and I think you're not worth my time even to talk things out with, that person or situation is bound to be left out and to be forgotten. "Sometimes", it's better to always put in mind that we have better things to do in my life, than waste time on something that's just holding us back. This way, I end up being more productive, I hurt less people and I encounter less situations. Result: I am more happy. I move-on in life faster.

It was nice to be able to share my emotional side. We all have our differences, even with what I've said, respect for yourself and for others has always been the key to be emotionally stable.

Girls Talk

Migraine and Me

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 10:11:00 +0000

Here I am with my glasses again... My migraine has worsen for the past weeks. For some reason, I get headaches and the pain goes down to my eyes. My glasses works as protection which was given as an easy option to lessen it. I stopped wearing them in 2009. If you will notice, my eyes looked tired. Even with enough sleep, I still look wasted. My migraine started when I took up Nursing back in 2002. It's just terrible, maybe my brain couldn't handle the stress of memorizing terms and studies with regards to medicine. I even thought that I was already having some eye problem. But thank God, my eye sight/ vision is still normal.

Instead of getting a prescribed medicine, I was advised by my doctor to cut down on caffeine which is one of the main causes of migraine. Next is to get a computer monitor protector, third is to have more light every time I use the computer, fourth, is to wear eye glasses, fifth if you can , sunglasses will give better results.

I tried using a monitor protector and I even wore sunglasses but both made it harder for me because I couldn't view the screen properly. Aside from adding enough light, I resulted on using eyeglasses. Late last year, my husband bought me a new computer monitor. He made me choose between a 21" Samsung from a 19". I wanted a bigger screen, but the 21 inches was overwhelming, ended up with the 19 inches. I can't imagine a bigger migraine scenario if we bought the 21 inches.

What causes migraines?

Some people who suffer from migraines can clearly identify triggers or factors that cause the headaches, but many cannot. Potential migraine triggers include:

1. Allergies and allergic reactions

2. Bright lights, loud noises, and certain odors or perfumes

3. Physical or emotional stress

4. Changes in sleep patterns or irregular sleep

5. Smoking or exposure to smoke

6.Skipping meals or fasting

7.Alcohol

8. Menstrual cycle fluctuations, birth control pills, hormone fluctuations during menopause onset

9. Tension headaches

10.Foods containing tyramine (red wine, aged cheese, smoked fish, chicken livers, figs, and some beans), monosodium glutamate (MSG), or nitrates (like bacon, hot dogs, and salami)

11.Other foods such as chocolate, nuts, peanut butter, avocado, banana, citrus, onions, dairy products, and fermented or pickled foods.-source-

And with the causes stated above I'm guilty with Cause nos. 4, 6, 9 and 11. My medication? I only take pain killers like Advil or Ponstan. Paracetamol doesn't work for me. I'm lucky in case somebody comes home from GA, I get Excedrin Migraine. In a few weeks, I will be visiting my eye doctor. I would probably go under a specific test this time. I wanna make sure my brain and my eyes are in good condition.

The Governing Factor

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 11:47:00 +0000

I am as interested as everyone, every Filipino looking forward to what President Noynoy has prepared for us. The President's State of the Nation Address is very important to me being a mother and a wife. Every centavo that I take out of my wallet counts, every drop of perspiration from my husband's hard work matters and the thousands that they take off my husband's salary just for tax is overly ridiculous. With that ,we don't even feel that our taxes are being used properly. I know that somehow the Aquino administration will solve more this time.

Kudos for laying off from the usual speeches our past presidents has given us.

A pat on the back for emphasizing on laws and bills needed to be prioritzed.

A good round of applause for looking up on Education, Poverty, Corruption and other works illegally attained.

My question: How will the new admin go about their promises? Why am I asking? You see, we fought the very same problems over and over again. I'm fed up hearing falls hopes and dreams. The only thing that shed light for the past years--- are the people being more vigilant. That's why during the whole term of the Arroyo admin, reports of corruption are exposed immediately. But over-all, these were the very same problems for every President who sat down in Malacañang. *Naiba lang ang pangalan ng mga taong kailangang managot.

As an individual I had expectations. I wished President Noynoy concentrated more on the path towards a better Philippines not tracking back anomalies and irregularities from the previous administration. Because really, we're very much aware of these things, and there are far worst than what he mentioned. It was his time to open himself to the nation to share what the President really wants for the country, not the people behind him. This was his moment. It's better if he said that they're already handling those mishaps (from the previous gov't )and moving on to what he has got to offer the country for the next 5 years, or at least what's expected under the new government.

But again my bad, what can I do right? I mean, I should have kept an open mind and adjusted to whatever was served during the President's first State Of The Nation Address.

I have high hopes for President Noynoy. President Noynoy is a good person. I know he will not let us down. But I am also looking for that so-called "governing factor". One major thing I'm worried about are the people around him.

Governing: To exercise a deciding or determining influence. It's not just being the leader of the pack or a group and country for this matter. It is the determining influence, to keep control, the force behind every person placed in position in order to achieve goals for a particular department.

The factor that will give him wisdom to enlighten the people around him on what's right and what's not. And as citizens, progress starts with us. If you're going to be lazy your whole life relying on the government, it will take you forever to reach your dreams, and you'll end up blaming others too. It's hard work, and perseverance on our/ your part in order to achieve the life we've/ you've always dreamed of.

Bits Of A Blog-Free Week

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:54:00 +0000

Counting back, it's been a week since my last post. And every time I log-in without nothing to post makes me feel kinda weird, especially when I'm used to posting almost everyday. Anyway, I let me break the boredom with this blog. This week, I've been pretty busy with my regular tasks here around the house. In- between I run some errands.

I brought my Pentax SLR to a nearby camera center to have it fixed. There was a slight shutter problem. But it's all good, it's working fine again.
I've been keeping up with my son's schedule.
I have tons of laundry to settle. It's been raining hard the whole week, and man, what a hassle! We all know clothes that are not properly dried, stinks.
I got fresh , sweet Pomelo (suha) from Davao.
Took my grandmother out for her 80th birthday and went to her hometown, and she took me back in time (Malate Manila World War II).

Malate Church (1588- present)

I may have 0 posts, but in reality, it has been an awesome week for me. I learned to be more patient when my other camera broke down, I became flexible coping with my son's activities, the sun showed up early this morning, I was able to finish my laundry, a healthy fruit to go with my favorite meal, and the most moving event was celebrating with my grandmother on her 80th birthday. I learned a lot being with her in one day. Her life's stories about war, family ties, hardships, freedom and how to become a strong person to battle off fear, frustrations and moving on with dignity.

GT: A Piece Of My Mind

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 12:55:00 +0000

Over-all, I am just an average person with an average brain. There are plenty of ways to represent this week's theme on Girls Talk. I'll do mine by enumerating several approaches I make to be mentally healthy.

To keep a healthy mind I make it a point that I pull out the good benefits from the things I do daily, situations I deal with and one of a kind individuals I encounter every day.

Keeping a positive disposition in life is my main weapon to fight off stress, frustrations and building insecurities.

On maintaining a healthy mind, I meditate everyday. Every morning I save some quiet time for myself. I close my eyes, I focus and clear my mind for the new things that's about to take place within another bright day , then I say a thankful prayer.

On being productive, blogging is my #1 motivator. To be able to share my thoughts anytime to people from around the globe makes my brain healthy as ever.

Reading books is also a plus factor.

A healthy conversation is a must.

As a couple, my husband and I would indulge ourselves every weekend to a full body massage. We believe that relaxing helps a lot. That's when Phone-A-Massage comes in. We get to choose the time and the no. of continuing hours we want for our massage. If our masseuse is not available, we go to the mall to have our therapy. It's revitalizing I must say. Your 300 bucks is definitely worth it, especially if it's going to be beneficial for both your body and mind.

*If you live around Quezon City, Phone-A-Massage offers Php250 per hour of Swedish massage and I highly recommend Big Apple Express Spa located in Robinsons Galleria. We always go for Balinese Massage (Aromatherapy Massage). Getting pampered doesn't even cost as much.

And dealing with a 5 year old? Conversing with your child and teaching your child are good refreshments. They're one of the things I love as a mother. My mind is relaxing and enjoying at the same time. What harm can an innocent child bring? Yes, sometimes we're exhausted, but the mind is getting entertained and satisfied by the small accomplishments our child is making.

Don't forget: A Healthy Body Supports A Healthy Mind (and vice versa)

Girls Rule

We Survived Our First Storm

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 06:44:00 +0000

Was it just about another poor weather forecast? I mean, as of 8pm last night watching the evening news, they announced that the typhoon is expected Wednesday morning and it will not pass Metro Manila. By 9pm, the wind was already blowing, the sky is all red and it was raining hard. As of 11pm, they announced that Metro Manila was under signal no. 2.

Come on! That's the most ridiculous forecast I have ever heard. With signal no. 2 it was already chaos outside my house and I live in Quezon City. I heard 2 or 3 transformers blowing, and as expected power was shut down. My parents called that a huge tree fell right at my sister's bedroom window. Was that signal no. 2?

It's obvious that the typhoon was headed our way or was it already upon us? Nature is surely unpredictable. Sometimes, I'd choose to rely on my own instincts, just looking out our window.

Typhoon Basyang was the first storm we experienced in our new home, and it's far different to when we were still living in a condo. In our old condo, we couldn't even here a sound from outside with all the concrete walls that surrounds us. We now live in a small house with bigger windows. This time, my son got really scared. Franky even cried. It was his first time to feel and witness what a storm is. We can actually feel the cool wind blowing and howling. We can see trees swaying and dancing, we can here some banging from the roof, we saw a tree just beside our house fall.

But every child needs to know and understand these kind of situations. I brought Franky by our window, and explained that a storm is just rain with some winds and it's stronger. We stayed up just looking out our window. Part of me was praying for our safety and for the rest. Part left me in awe on how powerful nature can be. My husband got stuck in his office. I advised him to stay safe where ever he is. My parents called once in awhile to check on me and Franky too. By 1am my son was able to sleep. Remember my mini fan and my Magic Touch Lights entry? They all came in handy. Inspite of the rage this storm brought us, we were able to sleep well and we all stayed safe.

Revisitng Eastwood Early In The Morning

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 14:39:00 +0000

It was a lovely sunny morning when my husband and I decided to have breakfast in Eastwood City. It's been a long time since our last breakfast adventure. We agreed to lessen our frequent dining out. And it's been almost 2 years since I last posted a related food trip. As part of the adventure, we would often just get in our usual clothes then drive around looking for the perfect restaurant, whatever we feel to eat at the moment.

Since Franky didn't have school that day, we took advantage of the time so we can try it again.
Along the way...

When everybody was stuck in traffic on their way to work, here we are, also in traffic but taking our time thinking of a good place where we can have breakfast. Sometimes it feels good to be exactly the opposite.

As always, Eastwood was our choice of location. It's very near our house. Eastwood City is a nice place to visit in the morning, coffee shops are open and most restaurants are also ready to serve heavy meals. It is also my kind of area where I can go for a relaxing stroll on a cool morning, especially when there's not much people around. What a great way to start the day right?

Picture: Eastwood Mall at 9 o'clock in the morning; breakfast buffet @ Something Fishy

A Previous Breakfast Adventure

This Site Is In Transition

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 07:01:00 +0000

That's right folks, Sweet Nothings is moving to a different domain name. As to what Google advised, the transition will take 3 days at the most.

I'm really overwhelmed with this move. It's mixed emotions.

I'm a little scared, because I'm not familiar with the process, that I might miss out on some things that might delete Sweet Nothings completely.
I'm happy because this is an achievement for me as a regular blogger. It really pays to have your own domain name. It's self-fulfilling, because I know that it sheds importance to the blogs I post online. The "domain name" is a huge term to represent all stories.
In terms of money- generating purposes, might as well take advantage of it. Maximize what I can gain while I have my own domain name.
Xtraordinarymom will always be xtraordinarymom. This term truly defines me as a person and what I have accomplished and still achieving as a mother and wife.

http://www.xtraordinarymom.com/

I decided to stick to this 1 yr old design for Sweet Nothings made by Ms. Carlota of My Web Blog Dot Com. It's my site's first look that guaranteed me that--- "yes Enchie you now have a real website design and it matches one of the website must-haves". And I am very honored to have given this chance to meet people who are very caring like Ms. Carlorta.

Please bear if some widgets are missing or if you find it difficult searching.

Sponge In My Phone

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 14:44:00 +0000

I so love Spongebob! because even in my cellphone, I have him!

From Thick To Thin

noreply@blogger.com (Enchie) — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 15:44:00 +0000

For a little story on cellphones. The first cellphone I had was an Alcatel Bubble Phone. You know, their cute "glow in the dark" units. I was still in college then. Since my parents didn't believe in the luxury of having a cellphone, I had to save up for my very own. It was fulfilling to be able to buy my first gadget with my very own allowance money. When I graduated from college, that's the time my parents upgraded my cellphone to a Nokia 6150. I didn't really have any intentions of changing my unit that time. Cellphones units were being sold for a very high price. Of course the newer it is the more expensive. I didn't see the value on upgrading and upgrading all the time.

Through the years, I still changed cellphones, because they were passed down to me by my dad and my old one, to my brother. When I got married, I sold the cellphone (which was my first Sony Ericsson) my dad gave me and got a smaller unit which is a Nokia 8310. After my 8310, the rest followed: my husband told me to sell it because he is going to give a 6600 (which I sold to my younger brother since there were too much cellphones hanging around) . And when when he got a Blackberry some 2 years back, he gave me his Sony Ericsson P990i.

To continue---

You see, these cellphones were all handed down to me. Happy? Of course I am, because I didn't spend a single centavo to have it all.

I stopped my first story with a Sony Ericsson P990i right ? so we will begin the main story with that Sony Ericsson P990i.

As we can see in the pictures below, a Sony Ericsson is bulky. This unit is more for the guys than us ladies. I have been using it for 2 years. And within those 2 years I came across some events when I had difficulty figuring out on where to put my SEP990i if I need to bring a small bag or a clutch for weddings and other formal occasions.

Today, I was finally graced with a thinner cellphone. Another Nokia.

And believe me, I am going through the manual slowly, because the last Nokia I had wasn't even in color (8310).

Can you spot the big difference?

Nothing fancy or something to be wild about. I'm glad that I was given another option in case some event comes up. I can fit this thinner cellphone inside any bag I want to use, and my Sony Ericsson will still be around if I wanna be a little adventurous.