Artsy Momma

After 8 years, I decided to resurrect this blog!

2020-12-23T14:11:00.002-08:00

It's 2020 and only a few more days before we welcome 2021. It's been a while since I have shared my thoughts, my day, my family life with you all. I reckon it's about time to share again.

Work hard, Play hard

2012-05-09T18:40:00.001-07:00

It's been a while since i last posted here and yes i'm still alive! I just got preoccupied with a lot of things re kids, home management, work, etc.

Now, I'm currently testing my new toy which i can practically use for both work, play and time management. Right now, i'm writing this post thru a handheld phone. And frankly, it's so liberating! Whenever writingdiarrhea strikes, i can post anytime! Amazing!

What's more, i'm so excited to try its superb cam and other features.

When i asked my hubby if i should go for this gadget, he simply said, "you don't need to justify your purchase, you have to know that you deserve it." double amaZing!

Progress Report for 2011 New Year Resolutions

2012-01-01T23:56:00.001-08:00

Before I begin with my 2012 resolutions, I’d like to make an update on last year’s list and how each item affected my new and ~~improved~~ promises for 2012. In no particular order:

Too much sunshine ei?
This was me during the Tree Planting Activity in Bulacan, Philippines

Plant trees.

I’m not a hardcore environmentalist but I’m doing my best to reduce my carbon footprint. In 2011, I planted a total of 30 trees! Wee! One tree planting activity I went into even invited persons with disability so I also got to meet them and help in their efforts to save Mother Earth.

2. Encourage at least 5 moms to breastfeed.

Funny thing is, out of five, I encouraged one DAD to convince her wife to exclusively breastfeed their newborn daughter. Myra is the wife of my officemate, Jeff. Jeff was actually the one who’s so interested in listening to my hilarious and heartwarming (?) stories of nursing my baby. He’s way too curious for a guy because he’s always asking me the do’s and don’ts of breastfeeding, what to expect and what to use as if I’m a lactation expert of some sort. Little did I know, he’s already sharing it to her pregnant wife.

Updated on April 13, 2012

I’m happy to inform that another officemate of mine is currently breastfeeding after giving birth last March 2! That’s 2 out of 5. Happy me!

3. Do at least one random act of kindness each day.

Again, I’m no Mother Theresa but I try each day of my life to do the ARK or Acts of Random Kindness. I’m so blessed to be part of Medical Missions, Outreach Programs for the underprivileged and gift-giving to orphans. Likewise, it’s the little acts like making a friend laugh after a heartache or hugging mom to soothe her longing for dad among others are what makes my day extra special.

So for 2012! Here’s a longer list:

· Eat healthier

· Exercise

· Pray more often

· Take time to read, dance and travel

· Meditate

· Watch a theatrical play with hubby and the kids

· Stay away from toxic relationships, drop it. They don’t deserve my time anyway.

· Take good care of my skin

· Enroll in an online writing course

· Make a shout-curse-all-you-want stress journal where I can simply write and let go anything and everything stressing me. This one should be locked in my dresser. And double lock it.

· Blog more, write more, photograph more

· Cook more, discover more recipes

· More, more time with the kids and hubby

· Revive my dinner and movie dates with hubby

Cheers to a new year and a better life! Dio ci benedica!

My Vow to Breastfeeding

2012-01-01T20:11:00.000-08:00

For one year and nine months since August of 2010, my pledge to breastfeed Carly carries on. My reasons for keeping my promise to breastfeed are quite simple: so I can boost my child’s immunity, provide her the best nutrition and to keep our mom and baby bond.

Apart from being a wife and mother of two, I also have a career in public relations. I didn’t live a glamorous life just like what the tagged photos in my facebook account shows. The cocktail parties, campaign launches and other events I take part in are all for business purposes. Images of late night partying, drinking, etc, are far from what really happens in the parties I attend to. I’m usually there to meet people who can be possible business partners, catch up with media friends and often times assist in other publicity tasks for post photo releases.

After I gave birth to Carly and resumed to work, a typical day for me would entail waking up at 7 in the morning (hubby’s an ‘earlier’ riser, he wakes up at 5a.m.), pump breast milk, prepare breakfast, shower and leave for work. Before 7, I get home, eat dinner and nurse the baby. I am so so glad hubby is a hands-on dad with my pre-schooler Eve especially or else I’ll go mad!

For a parent with a corporate career like mine, I CAN excuse myself from breastfeeding my baby. But I DIDN’T. I refused the idea of setting aside my first priority (family) for a handful of tasks that awaited me in the corporate world. I also CAN give up my day job to be a full-time breastfeeding mom yet I didn’t. I knew in my heart, I also need this career not only to help sustain the family finances but for my personal growth, too.

I may sound complicated but I believe life is some sort of a big puzzle, you just have to find the right pieces to solve the picture.

So here’s what I did.

As soon as I knew I was pregnant, I researched for the tools/equipment/things that will aid me in breastfeeding ‘from a distance’. By ‘from a distance’, I mean if I’m out for work, events, seminars, meetings, etc. I’ll be forever thankful to my breastfriends including my trusty Avent Isis BPA-Free Manual Breast Pump, Pigeon breast pads, my dark Pashmina (which I cover myself with when pumping) Avent and Tommee Tippee milk containers and bottles (all BPA-Free) and my reliable Fridge-To-Go for keeping my precious milk cold. They were with me for almost a year and yes, I can still use it if we plan to have another baby.

Second thing I considered is asking for permission at work. At the office, I requested for my immediate head (our asst. mall manager) and HR to allow me for some quick 10-minute breaks so I can pump milk. I am fortunate enough that I work for a company with a strong advocacy for breastfeeding.

Everyday, I pump every 3 hours and store it in our office fridge. I usually yield 4-8 ounces each pumping session and bring home a total of 16 to 24 ounces of breastmilk for Carly’s consumption the next day. When I get home, I pump for extra milk to be stored in the freezer for back-up. My baby had more than enough milk so I also donated at once to our local orphanage to benefit the babies there.

One dilemma that I faced was the out-of-office work I take part in like Tree Planting activities, court hearings, event launches and meetings. I thought that if I have the right and complete breastfeeding aids, I would be able to do outdoor milk extraction. I was wrong! By wrong, I mean I should boost my confidence first and whisk all hesitations away. I used to think pumping in public is too embarrassing but while I was on a bus on my way home, my breasts were so engorged and is aching already, I badly needed to express milk! “What the heck. These people won’t even care if my child gets hungry so I better pump now,” I thought to myself. With my pashmina on for coverage, I got my breastpump out of the Fridge-To-Go, unbuttoned my blouse and drained one breast after another. My colleague, Kuya Marc was beside me and even cheered “Go pumping Momma!” I can say it was one of my most unforgettable moments in my vow to exclusive breastfeeding.

As soon as Carly turned 1, I decided to mix feed her with formula milk during daytime and breastmilk at night. I thank God for the wonderful experience of breastfeeding and the opportunity to be an instrument in nurturing a baby, the natural way. Being able to nurse your child is not a lifetime and permanent undertaking. Rather, it is a temporary mission given to mothers to experience the most unconditional and miraculous way of loving their precious young ones.

A Year of Miracle

2012-01-01T18:24:00.000-08:00

August 20, 2011

It’s my youngest daughter’s 1^st birthday today and I am here early in the office to attend to all my backlogs and projects. Is there something wrong with me?

In our current state, I don’t have the luxury to excuse myself from work since I badly need this job. But then, I’m hoping and praying that God would change our situation so we may fulfill our roles. I’m trying to understand why He placed us to where we are right now. Maybe he wants us to learn. Maybe it’s what’s best for now. Whatever it is, I am confident that He has better and bigger plans for us.

It was a very pleasant evening of August 20 of last year when I delivered to a bouncing and lovely baby girl. The operation was smooth. I didn’t get to fall asleep despite the anesthesia injected in my spine. I felt numb from chest down to my feet. I can feel the movement but there’s no sensation, though. My eyes were half-closed when I saw a naked little thing pass by my right side. I was looking at her eyes and surprisingly, she was looking at me, too. She has a healthy wail when she was taken away from the operating room. It was the moment when I silently offered a prayer of thanks to my Father up there. Indeed, babies are living proofs that God never lost faith in mankind.

I cannot put to words what I felt when I had Carly. It was a different feeling when I gave birth to Eve, my first-born. With Eve, it was a life-changing experience for me since it was my first time and I was very young then. I was 21 when I had her. With Carly, she’s like a breath of fresh air. Maybe because I was prepared and confident that I can take care of the miracle that is Carly. I call her my miracle baby.

We didn’t expect another baby since I had a thyroid condition for about 3 years but I was taken cared of by my endocrinologist. She said that it’s a gift from above because I cannot conceive if my hormones are not in a normal level. I was nervous when I learned about Carly because I worried about her health. My OB-gyne briefed me that we may want to take extra care so as not to lose the baby. Every month, I get to check my thyroid levels and have my endocrinologist take a look at me and my baby. It was a tough pregnancy but with God’s help, we got through it. I feel so blessed indeed.

Updated on January 1, 2012

I may want to add that 2011 was tough on me but with God’s help, I together with the whole family got through it. Eve is so happy with her new school and new friends. Carly is constantly excited with her new food explorations (she has an appetite like an elephant ;)) Hubby is very much hopeful with the career waiting for him in 2012.

2011 took me to another rollercoaster ride with matching tsunami waves on the side. But then, it was a year of miracle that I’ll always be thankful for.

Time is a precious gift

2010-12-24T18:57:00.000-08:00

Time just fly by so fast, ain't it? It's one of life's resource that seems to be too precious for me right now. Three months have passed since I last posted here in my blog. And yes, it's time to get my fingers workin' again.

First up, I'd like to thank God for taking me on a rollercoaster ride this 2010. The year gave me a generous serving of heartaches but nevertheless been kind and fruitful. For 2011, I'm ready to learn and grow more. Research, exploration and experimentation were sort of my addiction since childhood.

After I fully committed myself to breastfeeding, I'm glad to say I'm living up to my vows. More than a month since I got back to work, I still EXCLUSIVELY BREASTFEED my 4 month old baby girl. I feel much fulfilled whenever I lay down at night knowing I maximized my role as a mother, wife and a carrer-woman. It's tough sometimes especially when I do field work like outdoor photoshoots and media rounds. But then, stubborn as I am, I usually find a way to make things work for me. Good thing, I researched and bought all the things I'll be needing when I go back to work. Among my trusty "breastfriends" are my breastpump, milk storage bottles and my super reliable FRIDGE-TO-GO. For a more realistic approach, my target period for exclusive breastfeeding is until my baby's 6 months old. I know in God's grace, I can still continue beyond that even if I do mixed feeding (combination of breastmilk and infant formula).

It's also true that kids grow up so fast. Though Eve (my first-born child) still dances like a baby, she is undeniably ready for school. After she went to summer school, waking up every morning with Eve would mean endless dialogue on why she won't be able to go to school yet. I was pregnant then that's why her dad and I decided Eve will start studying come June of 2011 (here in the Philippines, our school year starts in June).

At the age of 4, the idea of studying excites Eve. Going to school would mean meeting a lot of friends, more playtime, more ABC's and 1, 2, 3's and according to her, "more drawing". As she is fond of working on objects, figures, shapes and people in her drawings, I figured her strength is in visual arts. Guilty-mom is what I call myself that's why I sometimes shower her with artsy toys/tools to stimulate her creativity.

2010 also taught me to value relationships. We lost 4 of our relatives this year. 1 from an accident and 3 from illness. My heart aches for the death of my cousin, aunts and grandmother. Then again, our loss is heaven's gain. I know they're now happy up there though their presence is greatly missed down here.

Deaths in our family made me seek for a better relationship with my parents. It's now my turn to take good care of them since I won't be this person if not for their love. Their one of my top priorities this coming year. I'm also praying that God shower them with good health so they can appreciate old age with their lovely grandchildren.

Carly Isabelle Cruz

2010-09-14T03:59:00.000-07:00

Born on August 20, 2010, 6.6 lbs, Carly Isabelle Cruz, my second daughter and another proof of God's love for me and my family.

Despite the many challenges that came my way in the course of my pregnancy, Carly fought, and I fought for her. She is indeed a born fighter.

Oh well, the effects of anaesthesia still runs in my blood. I'm still forgetful and all.... till my next post! tata!

35 weeks

2010-07-30T16:44:00.000-07:00

A Mother's Fear

2010-07-23T18:51:00.000-07:00

I'm super worried. Worried like I can't sleep and I can't focus. The thought of Eve being infected with her ex-nanny's leprosy disease makes me scared to death.

I actually felt betrayed when Eve's nanny didn't tell us about her disease after being diagnosed. It was only when I got to see her medication that she told us about her illness. She cried as she apologized for not telling us sooner.

I was crying last night while my daughter was asleep. I found myself staring at Eve for almost an hour...praying hard. Asking God to spare my daughter from the disease. "What ifs" clouded my mind. "What if her nanny really infected my daughter?"...What if the symptoms will show later in her life, like when she's already 10 or 11?" A lot of questions... I even thought of consulting a specialist just to answer my queries about the illness and to appease my anxiety.

For now, I lay everything to God. I'm praying for strength and wisdom to face whatever challenge there is for us. I'm hoping and praying that God would keep my daughter away from harm and sickness.

iLove Surveys!

2010-07-23T02:52:00.000-07:00

I'm so fond of surveys, whatever the topic may be. I took a random survey from dneero and I actually learned a lot from it. I guess being curious with things makes me hone my skills in research.

Clenched!

2010-07-22T19:28:00.000-07:00

Negative people really annoy me. Their negativity is like a leech that clenches onto any surface with a tight unremovable grip. Oh, well! I'm a big believer of karma. What goes around, comes around. I'll just let it go and let God handle it.

Nanny needs help

2010-07-21T18:37:00.000-07:00

And so I have to get this off my chest quickly before it eats my sanity...

This week, our nanny came back and I was really relieved. She left two weeks ago because she said she’s been suffering from muscle numbness, blotchy skin, fever and itchiness from every part of her body. I was heartbroken when she had to leave us for she was the only nanny I ever trusted that much with taking care of my toddler.

Thank God we survived two weeks without a household help. It was tough, but we managed. There was this one time when she dropped by the house to visit us (I was in the office then). My hubby called me after nanny’s visit and he pitied our nanny’s condition. My hubby said, Janine look red and swollen from all over. She looked really sickly. After hearing what my hubby has to say with Janine’s appearance, I consulted a few doctors whom I know. They all recommended to let her take a CBC test. I quickly texted Janine and insisted she take the blood test. She said, her father wouldn’t allow. Maybe because he knows every test, every doctor’s appointment would mean "money down". Heck, I was really annoyed with her father’s attitude. I told nanny to tell her father not to worry about the expenses.

After a week, nanny told us she’s ready to get back to work. My hubby gladly said yes. She then told us what the doctor said about their consultation. Nanny has the symptoms of someone with leprosy. I’ve gone speechless upon hearing it. First thought that came to me was the safety of my daughter and my unborn baby. What if they contract the disease? How can I prevent my daughter from getting near her nanny?

But then, I also thought how difficult Janine’s condition is. She needs our help.

She asked if we can allow her to take the day off on Friday so she can go to the doctor for her second checkup. We agreed that she would update us on what the doctor will advise her. We also told her not to hesitate to ask for help from us for we would surely be glad to be of assistance.

Kind, trustworthy and patient nannies are hard to find. There isn’t a perfect one, though. I’m just grateful God sent someone like Janine who I know loves my daughter so much. She had been a great help for us for the last 2 years. I’m a working mom and without her assistance, I may have lost my normal mental state. What we are experiencing right now may have been too much for me to digest yet.

I pray to God for her healing. I pray for good doctors and people that may also be of help in Janine's health improvement.

Getting ready for Halloween Costumes

2010-07-21T01:19:00.000-07:00

Since I’ll be giving birth in September and would tremendously be busy until October, I might as well plan on what to get for Eve’s kiddie Halloween outfit. I admit, I’m such a worry-wart! Halloween is 3 months away and yet I’m already planning it for my lil’ kid.

I’m a super fan of making costumes for my little daughter. I remember making a cake costume for Eve’s Halloween costume in 2008. I made a 2-layer cake costume using an insulating foam, pink creep paper, cardboard, empty toilet paper roll and masking tape. My Eve is so cute in it she still used the cake costume during her 2nd birthday last November 30, 2008. Too bad I wasn’t able to back up the photo!

Now that I’m a working mom, I don’t have enough time to make homemade halloween costumes for my kiddo. In 2009, I bought a witch’s costume for her but I wasn’t satisfied with her look. It seemed to plain for me.
Luckily, shopping online is super convenient for me. I found Costume Couldron’s creative, unique and stylish line of Halloween costumes for kids of all ages.

I personally like the Monster Bride Costume

The costume looks sophisticated and very European. Of course, I'd want my kid to stand out that's why I may opt to buy the stylish look of Monster Bride.

I’d also love to see Eve in a Clubhouse Minnie Mouse Costume.

The pink dress is really attractive with its big bold white polka dots, puff sleeves and white collar. It even includes the headband! Eve will surely look super sweet in this costume.

Now, I can’t wait for Halloween to come! Might as well get a sexy halloween costume for me! To know how many days left before Halloween, click here. For other cute and unique costumes, you may visit Costume Couldron's website or they're facebook account.

Your Family's Safety: Carnapping Incidents on the Rise

2010-07-20T22:33:00.000-07:00

Last night's news regarding recurring carnapping incidents along EDSA surely gave me shivers and tremendous fear for my family's safety.

Based from news reports, the victims came from the airport and on their way home, the hijackers bumps their car from the rear. The subtle collision is intended to prompt the passenger/victim to alight from their vehicles. Apparently, the criminals start tailing their victims from the airport. Most of the hijacked vehicles were SUV's.

Sharing with you the news article on Car thieves strike again, this time on Edsa from Philippine Daily Inquirer.

The news affects me big time because most of my relatives especially my dad flies in and out of the country for like 4 times a year. Early this quarter, he wanted to buy an Isuzu Montero but I just convinced him to delay the purchase. Call me a freak but I fear for my parents' life so bad. Speaking of family safety, my husband and I invested in a zapper where we bring wherever we go. Our zapper is very handy and carries just enough electricity to make an attacker unconscious.

Likewise, I do hope the government would approve and implement the GPS tracking devices in vehicles. I heard that LTFRB has this project last year but it wasn't successful.

Home-Made Chicken Nuggets

2010-07-20T21:36:00.000-07:00

As someone who’s still a rookie in the kitchen, I have been researching on how and what to prepare for a kid’s meal or a snack. I’m not a big fan of fast food but I know with a little creativity, I can make nutritious and mouth-watering recipes for my Evee.

I was thinking of making chicken nuggets minus the preservatives and oil from deep-frying. So I bought everything I need to make my little foodie experimentation. On my basket were:

Chicken fillet (cut into strips), calamansi, flour, cornstarch, iodized salt, pepper, Magic Sarap, eggs, fresh milk and corn oil

Using calamansi, salt, pepper and Magic Sarap, I seasoned the chicken fillet and kept it inside the ref overnight. I also prepared the batter which included flour, cornstarch, egg, fresh milk and a dash of salt. I may have taken experimentation by heart for as you may have noticed there are no measurements for the ingredients so it’s basically a trial and error thing.

I woke up early the next day to combine the meat and the batter for frying. I cooked fried rice, egg, dilis and chicken nuggets for breakfast. I also sliced 3 sweet potatoes so she can have something to munch on for her morning snack while watching her favorite Nickelodeon show “Team Umizumi”. I also had to rush for work that morning so I ate quickly (with hubby and Evee still in the middle of eating), took a shower and got dressed. Eve’s empty plate and loud burp is enough to make me feel like an Iron Chef Mommy!

Oh and by the way, she’s requesting for French fries. Might as well run to the grocery to get some large potatoes for tonight’s homemade crunchy fries!

Avent and Tommee Tippee:Product Primer Review

2010-07-19T20:13:00.000-07:00

I’m on my second pregnancy right now and I’ve started to research for baby stuff to buy. I’m planning to exclusively breastfeed my baby and thought it should be the basis for the things on my shopping list.

Breast Pump
First, I’m going to need a trusty breastpump. With my first child, I didn’t bother to buy a pump since I said I’m not going to use it. Turns out, even if you nurse directly from your breasts, you’re really going to need a breastpump to express excess milk especially when baby is asleep or is still full. I suffered from engorged and aching breasts because I don’t have a pump. Good thing my SIL gave me her own breastpump. As for the brand, I think its from Bebe and it tortured me like hell! Its like squeezing an unriped lemon.

Just last week, I already received the Avent ISIS BPA-free Manual Breast Pump I bought from an online seller for like 90% off. I joined a forum for Pinoy parents and I’ve read great reviews of the product from experienced moms. Since I plan to continue on breastfeeding after my maternity leave, I’m hoping to make the most out of my Avent Breast Pump. I also bought a spare pump from Chicco for which I have yet to try. I’ll be writing a separate review for the breastpump once I use it.

Avent vs. Tommee Tippee
I would also need to invest on bottles and milk storage for my breastfeeding needs. Top two things I look for in bottles are: it should be BPA-free and anti-colic. I will be transferring my precious breastmilk in these bottles so they should also be safe when stored in a freezer or ref. I researched on various brands and came down to two choices: the BPA-free line of Avent bottles and the hard to find Tommee Tippee.

I already bought 5 BPA-free bottles from Avent (comes with a free bottle brush) and 2 Tommee Tippee bottles from their Closer to Nature line. I’m glad both brands were made in England. Compared to Avent, TT is hard to find here in the Philippines. I purchased my TT bottles at SM MOA when I went there last week for a work-related affair (to think that I reside 2 hours from that mall). I wanted to test both products first to see what suits my baby best.

Tommee Tippee Closure to Nature’s claim: Their uniquely shaped bottles are designed to help infants’ seamless transition between breast and bottle feeding. Suitable for working moms who want to continue giving breastmilk to their babies. The nipples are lifelike, soft, flexible and has a built-in valve to reduce air intake.
I will soon be posting my review for these two brands as soon as my newborn and I use it.

Morning Bliss

2010-07-18T19:02:00.000-07:00

Mornings for me are sacred. It’s the time of the day when you get to wait and watch your little angel slowly open up her eyes. It’s when you get to feel the warm snuggle of your still asleep hubby. It’s when you get to thank the Lord for another day, another week.

Since I live just 10 minutes away from my workplace, I have the luxury of getting the most out of my morning free time with Eve and Gab. Wakey time for the three of us means playtime before breakfast, cuddle cadoodles and kiss squeezes (picture Eve between me and Gab as we both kiss her on the cheek until she feels squeezed). I love how Eve smiles whenever she sees her dad and I hug or kiss. I simply get the vibes that she feels secure with the sight of her parents show their affection in a "wholesome", kid-friendly way.

After maybe 20-30 minutes of kulitan, we go downstairs for a hearty breakfast. Eve is the life of our mealtimes. She always manages to make us laugh with her innocent remarks and responses.

One time, she was at the living room and I had to call her and shout from the dining area as I’m about to get late. She immediately said, "Mom, don’t shoouut!" Then i said, "ok little girl, no more shouting for mommy. I’m sorry!" Whenever I remember this scene, it never fails to make me smile. She’s really growing up....so fast.

Oh, how I love mornings!!!

Lessons you learn from other people

2010-06-24T00:51:00.000-07:00

It’s amazing how other people can cheer you up unexpectedly...

I was feeling the blues this morning (either because of a complicated situation or pre-partum depression) and I had to literally drag my feet going to the office. I was glad to see my dad and sister via webcam but the elated feeling instantly evaporated. Given that I’m already on my 7th month of pregnancy right now, some days just doesn’t feel good for me. A mixture of mental, emotional and physical stress has overwhelmed me for the past few days. Yet, I find no reason to give up knowing I badly need this job.

My good friend in the office isn’t around so I had to keep myself busy to distract myself from the negative mood I’m having for the day. During lunchtime, I opted to eat alone since I don’t feel like chatting with the others.

After I finished my meal, I was waiting at the pantry for my turn at the washing area and I noticed one of our janitorial personnel was having a conversation with one of my officemates. I overheard my lady officemate say " Rico, after 5 minutes marami ka na ulit huhugasan jan at lilinisin. Di ka ba napapagod?".

"Ma’am, alam mo dapat masaya ka palagi sa ginagawa mo kahit marami, konti, maliit o malaki. Ako nga masaya palagi kaya pogi at maraming biyaya!", Rico said.

Unconvinced, she said " Dami ko kaya problema!". Then Rico even added, "Pag puro problema iisipin mo ma’am, naku tatanda ka! Di naman mawawala problema pero kung naka-smile ka habang may problema eh di hindi mo proproblemahin and magmukhang matanda!"

It was a simple logic from a simple person who cheered me up with his words that day. It’s not that I feel more fortunate for having much compared to him, but the contentment and hope I saw in him was enough to inspire me. Thank you Lord. You always manage to make your presence felt especially when my spirits are down.

Sending our love to other parts of the world

2010-06-14T19:37:00.000-07:00

Eve: Mommy, where’s Lolo?
Me: In Africa
Eve: Where’s Mamala, Papalo?
Me: In New Zealand
Eve: How bout Tita Judith, Kuya Ribo and Ate Kimmy?
Me: In Cebu
Eve: Where is Kuya Seth and Ate Babu?
Me: In Manila
Eve: Where’s Ninang Ben?
Me: In Africa, with Lolo
Eve: No! In Disneyland lang!

Everyday, my little girl always asks me the whereabouts of our loved ones. I never once hesitated to answer her because I want her to realize that our family may be in different places but still the love and care is always there.

I remembered when I was still a kid, I would feel sad everytime dad would leave for work. But then I’d feel giddy again knowing he’ll come home in time for dinner. Back then, I look forward to family gatherings or birthday celebrations because I know everyone, from my lolo and lola to my aunts and uncles plus cousins will be there to have a great time.

But now, times have changed. We have to be extra strong to accept the complexities that comes with an unstable economy (or should I say government?). Opportunities overseas became a window for our family members to financially sustain the needs of other loved ones. My dad, who I admire for his great dedication at work and impeccable skills in plantation management is now reaping the fruits of his labor. For 5 years, he ignored the big time offer to be a chief engineer in a British owned company in Africa because he didn’t want to be away from us. It wasn’t until the realization of economic crunch in the country that made him decide to accept the offer.

I am a working mom, who earns just enough and survives with the help of my parents and my husband’s relatives and yet planning our life in 5 years times seems vague for me. I credit it to the fact that I don’t feel secure in my own country to give what is due to its struggling citizens who incessantly pay their taxes rightfully.

I never loose hope, though. It’s a blessing everytime I wake up and feel God’s shower of graces upon us. I’m grateful that my daughter understands why some of our families are worlds apart. I’m thankful that each day brings new hope for us. I’m praying to God for wisdom so my husband and I may lead our kids to where and what God wants them to be. I’m praying for our country as well, and wisdom for its leaders to serve rightfully.

*This post is dedicated to our loved ones from all over the world. Sending our kisses and prayers to Dad, Brenda, Mama, Papa, Tito Noel, Tita Lily, Lynell, Lyzel and Azreal. Also to Tita Judith, Tito Koko, Ribo, Kim, Tito Nikko, Mommy Merz and Daddy Pitt.

Mommy wants Eve's DS lite

2010-06-04T23:49:00.000-07:00

The original title of this post is actually ‘Eve and her DS Lite’ but a realization suddenly struck me. So read on so you’ll get the rationale behind the selfish title above.

Our relative from the US sent Eve a Nintendo DS Lite just a few weeks ago. Her dad, being a video game geek, loaded the console with a number of cool games. Eve quickly got her way thru using the DS since she loves tinkering with the stylus that comes with it. She particularly likes the game Sally Salon and Cooking Mama. It’s entertaining to watch her solve the challenges without getting frustrated. One try didn’t stop her to reach a higher game level. I also appreciate when she asks for either me or her dad for help everytime she gets confused with instructions.

Although she has her DS to play with, her painting, coloring and block-building activities aren’t forgotten and is still part of her daily play routine.

I got to experience DS during my lax time after office and surely, it’s addicting. I remembered when I was still in highschool, I got hooked with playing computer games in the weekends. The likes of Counterstrike, Ragnarok, Sims, and Battle of Realms were the games that I’ve taken interest in. I used to play from sun up to sun down with my meals being taken on the couch beside the computer.

This time feels different. I don’t have the luxury to waste time for computer games when I should rather spend it actually playing cuddle cadoodle with Eve and her dad. I shake off the feeling of self-pity everytime I feel deprived of the things I could get if only I’m single. Being a young mom, I also struggle with thoughts of wanting to experience what it could be like if I only spend for myself.

But seeing my little doll is enough for me not to regret anything that happened in my life. Her bright eyes and infectious smile is God’s answer to my senseless doubts and fears. With Eve, I don’t need a cheat code just to get her to laugh. I don’t need to level up just to gain her affection, hugs and kisses. The high feeling you get when you finish a video game is incomparable with the contentment in your heart just by knowing you’ve spent quality and quantity time with the person that matters most in your life.

have a heart for mother earth

2010-06-03T19:10:00.000-07:00

I was heartbroken this morning.....

I'm not a hardcore environmentalists but I'm practicing simple green living in my daily routine hoping I could be of help in saving mother earth. The moment I turned on my PC, news of rescue efforts at the gulf of mexico immediately caught my attention. Birds were emerged in oil, dolphins and sharks are seen dead at the shore...

Gulf oil spill: Wildlife rescue effort is a challenge in the gulf - latimes.com

I can't help but pray for these poor animals. I fear for the next negative impact if the oil spill crisis wouldn't be resolved.

Rain on me...

2010-06-03T02:09:00.001-07:00

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Originally uploaded by eve.dominique

As Eve enthusiastically sings "If all the raindrops are lemon drops and gum drops, oh what a rain that would be. Standin' outside with my mouth open wide, ah ah ah ah ah ah ah!, I can't help but feel cheerful. The rainy season is here. Thank God the dry spell had already ended.
(photo shows Eve when she was about 2 while enjoying a rainy afternoon)

Time

2010-05-29T18:26:00.000-07:00

As I watch her sleep, I can't help but regret the times I haven't been with her.

Instead of a day spent cooking for her favorite meal or a painting session at the garage, I am at the office rendering my services to one of the country's top corporation. I handle PR work for the branch and write about the company's events, promotions and csr projects, etc. Part of my job description entails me to establish and maintain a good relationship with the local government and the media.

Yet, it feels like it's my relationship with my daughter and husband that needs more nourishing.

Having been so absorbed lately at work, it kills me to admit I am already taking them for granted.

My little girl is growing up so fast. Only the length of her pajamas tell me I already lost track of her height measurement. I hate it when it's her yaya who tells me of her little but clap-worthy achievements like returning her cups in the ref or that she can already draw shapes familiar to her.

I can't help but remember when Eve was still a baby. I love the way she needed me for I am her only source of food (she's a breastfed baby). I love how her tiny fingers grasp my pinkie as if to say "I'll never let you go mommy". I love her peaceful face everytime she falls asleep on my chest as if my heartbeat is her only lullaby.

They say there are no perfect mothers. Though I feel inadequate, I'm trying to be the best mom for my precious daughter. I will never cease to give all the love, care and most important of all--time to the the one person who made me realize God is good. With the things I have no control of, I lay it all to Him. May He lead us to the path he planned for us.

My Take on Diabetes in the family

2010-05-25T23:08:00.000-07:00

It’s just now that I had the courage to write about the illness in our family that already took away 3 of my aunts and a few more of our relatives. In a short span of time, my father’s three sisters died because of complications from diabetes. Now, my mom’s only sister has it and I have been praying hard for her condition to get better.
Since I became a mom, I overreact at the littlest things that affect my daughter’s health. With Eve, a minor case of fever would make me stay up 24 hours just to make sure her temperature gets down to normal. She only has two pairs of shorts because I always make her wear a pajama so she wouldn’t get bruised from playing or get bitten by insects. Her pedia and dentist appointments are included in our yearly agenda. I am proud to brag that I breastfed her exclusively for 10 months. If only I wasn’t diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, I would have pursued breastfeeding until she’s 2 or 3 years old. When it comes to Eve, health is one of my priorities.
Yesterday was my aunt’s (my mom’s older sister) 71st birthday. I am so thankful that God had been generous for loaning her to us. She’s like a second mom to me and my siblings. It’s been a while since I last visited her. Though we live in a compound, I seldom drop by at their house because I was so preoccupied with work lately. Yesterday’s visit made me slow down my pace. Think things through.
Seeing my aunt so fragile is like seeing my mom 12 years from now. The chronic condition has taken a toll on her appearance. She’s a vague picture of the vibrant woman I used to know. Beside her bed, I looked stupid. I wanted to make her feel better but I felt helpless. I tried to talk to her but she just stared at me blankly. All I did was to kiss her, touch her hair and hand. I wore a mask that night because I had to hide the sadness that tears me until now.
Still, I saw the fighter in her. She’s struggling with the difficulty of her illness but she’s hanging on. Little by little, her body is deteriorating yet her courage is soaring. My aunt can’t walk anymore and it made me realize it’s now my turn to take her on a stroll. She can’t speak but I know she listens as I share Eve’s achievements. I’m not sure if she remembers me but for every gentle touch I lay on her face, she closes her eyes deeply as if saying "Hmmm, that feels good".
I wouldn’t be able to alter the fact that diabetes is in our family. But its never too late for me to start our lifestyle modification. I am thankful for the available resources that’ll keep me educated on how to prevent my children from acquiring or developing diabetes. Aware that she is also at high-risk, my own mom is currently practicing a healthy routine which includes an hour of brisk-walking in the morning, 30-minute aerobics exercise before noon and a dose of optimism to keep her going. Although sometimes her appetite lures her into food temptation, she manages to balance it with fruits and vegetables. As for my daughter and husband, I still need to revise a meal plan that is sure to keep us all healthy and away from the killer diabetes.

On baby essentials: What do I really need?

2010-05-25T00:54:00.000-07:00

I’m currently in my second trimester of pregnancy and itching to buy baby stuff already. Having experienced to buy almost everything (from baby essentials to cute lil nothings) I see in a baby boutique during my first pregnancy, I learned now that you only need to stick to the basics. Why? It is because kids grow up really fast!!
I believe every parent has a different style of bringing up their little ones, I would like to share mine.

When I was pregnant with Eve (my first-born daughter), its a good thing I invested in a sturdy playpen, breast pump, a Safety First Tub and a sterilizer. I also opted for cloth diapers until Eve was 6 months old because I’d rather have a pile of laundry to do than watch my baby suffer from UTI and diaper rash. My hubby and I also decided not to buy a crib because we want our baby to sleep between us. Likewise, it was convenient since I exclusively breastfeed her then.

On my list for my second baby shopping are:

A new breastpump. My previous pump was borrowed by a relative but wasn’t returned anymore. Most probably, I’ll look for an Avent Isis which will be ideal if I intend to breastfeed even if I’m already back at work.

A breastfeeding pillow for extra comfort and more snuggle time w/ baby when nursing.

A durable diaper bag. I bought 2 bags from Baby Couture before and both can’t withstand the wear and tear. I’m trying the:Nine West Baby Love Messenger Diaper Bag

or the LeSportsac Patent Ryan Baby Bag

A bed rail. Since Eve is used to sleep beside me, a bed rail will keep us all safe.

Perhaps I’ll also consider buying a Snuggle Nest so I wouldn’t worry about the baby getting suffocated by me or hubby or Eve.

I think that's basically all I need right now. Besides, baby still has lots of pedia visits and shots to go to so might as well just save up for that.