Blog and Me

Parenting- Emotional Needs

2012-01-24T22:00:00.000-08:00

Last night while I was putting on my 3 years old sons pajamas he said "Mommy,I can't draw,I can't draw a circle ,I can't draw a triangle" with his left hand held up making circles. I told him ,"It's okay, baby just keep on trying ,I know you can do it,don't worry about it, just keep practicing". At his age he already worries about school. And as a parent,I was alarmed how his school performance affects his young mind..Children may be little but they have feelings too and we should be sensitive about it .The way family members treats each other greatly influences a childs emotional health and development.Our childrens emotional needs are important and these are:

1. Love- Our child needs love.As your child grow older, let them know often of your love by sharing your time,listening and being involved in their activities.The infants needs holding ,smiling ,singing ,cuddling and simple games.

2.Security-Parents love is the best security we can give them.Never threaten to abandom them if they don't listen or stubborn. And if you are busy working mom ,make sure to choose a babysitter that your children like and know.

3.Praise- We should learn to praise our children even if they did not make it to the top or are not succesful .It can be verbal or a hug or a simple pat on the back.When you praise them ,they even try harder.

4.Acceptance-Don't dwell on your chidrens shortcomings.Encourage your child to improve in weaker areas and praise their successes.

This is the paper doll that they did yesterday that makes him worreid because he can't draw a face using shapes.

As of this writing ,my son came back from school and I asked how was school and if he was able to draw a circle.He answered quickly and cheerfully "yes,I did it!"! while raising his left hand up in the air.My eldest son also told me that his classmate even said inside the school bus that J draw a circle. Well,what else can I say.He figured out his own worry and I praised him for it.

Katy Perry Kissing Ivan Dorschner In Manila

2012-01-24T15:29:00.000-08:00

I had fun watching the video like a teenager.It is my first time to see the boy who was a PBB contestant.He is cute.I was just wondering why he does not have a shirt.But then reading the comments at you tube,I learned that he was asked to take off his shirt as part of the concert.I think that was a part of the show to make the audience more entertained . According to some You tube video comments, Katy wanted to give some message to her ex-husband named Russel Brand, whom she just divorced.Saying to him like, “Screw you. I’m free and I can do whatever I want to do. I don’t love you anymore.” Something like that..Back to the kissing scene,I was curious because I thought that they kissed each others lips.

Fort Towson High School -" A" Honor Roll

2012-01-20T07:19:00.000-08:00

My eldest came home from school with a newspaper.He was so proud to show me what is inside of it.He is included in the superintendent's "A Honor List" and was also posted on the local newspaper.To be included on the list,a student should have an straight A's grade.My son knows what makes me happy,an straight A's grade.He learned that from the moment he lived with me in Qatar.Being an OFW,he grew up with my parents and siblings in the Philippines for 7 years.I left him when he was only 4 months old. He turned out to be a spoiled brat because of the special attentions he receives from my family.But with me and my husbands guidance he turned to be a responsible and obidient son.He knew that getting the highest and not only the good grades in school is what I want from him.For other people you may think that I expect too much from my son but I only do it because I know I can push him to the limit. .Being in a foreign country,I want him to stand out in class and not just an ordinary foreign student.Any way, his high grade gets compensated by giving him whatever he wants as long as we can afford it. Here is my other post on his School Achievements .

Toni Gonzaga, Nilaglag si Fafa P. - Highest Page Views

2012-01-18T10:58:00.000-08:00

Yesterday , I was surprised to the the page views of this site. I got 1,334 pageviews in one day ,my highest so far.I was thinking of the Ramgen – Janelle Video Scandal post but it was not .The post was Toni Gonzaga, Nilaglag si Fafa P. .It was a video of how Toni indirectly doubted about Piolo's gender.But knowing Toni and how good an actress she is, the segment is no doubt scripted just to awaken the fans curiosity of the truth behind this controversial showbiz gossip.But anyway, the video was deleted already for some reason.

In one day too,it has become my second most popular posts next to Some of my Favorite Faceboook Quotes and Comments with "0" comments for almost 2 years but remains on the top from the time I published it.

True, popularity of the posts really depends on the keywords or most search words.Now ,I am beginning to learn about keywords and trending posts and some blogging techniques but I still need a lot of work to do to improve my writing.

Toni Gonzaga, Nilaglag si Fafa P.

2012-01-16T09:48:00.000-08:00

Nakakaaliw naman itong si Toni,pakikay ang sagot na binuking si Piolo Pascual.

source:Mark Deleon

Flowers in the Philippines

2012-01-15T16:38:00.000-08:00

Flower is my favorite subject for photo shoot .I am a frustrated photographer because I can't seem to get a good shoot of my subjects even if I use the DSLR except for the flowers of course .I got the camera on 2005 where DSLR was not so popular to common people.I remember when hubby bought it at Carrefour,Qatar,nobody was interested to check the display because of the high price and at the Qatar Asian Games before the year ends, hubby was the only few who has the camera and a big carry bag with him while everybody else has the point and shoot cam only.All of a sudden everyone has a camera and wants to be a photographer .

Gumamela -Hibiscus rosa-sinensis in english is a tropical shrubs or trees from the Philippines have large, showy, variously colored flowers with numerous stamens united into a tube surrounding the style.

Kalachuchi has scientific name Plumeria acuminata are also known as Frangipiani, graveyard or temple flower.The flower comes in pinkish,reddish or white color.It is a small tree with an oblong shaped leaves, smooth and shiny stems with abundant latex juice which is good for skin deasease.

It looks like Sampaguita but it is not .I wonder what the name is?I have been looking for this online but all I have found is the Sampaguita which is almost similar .

Ramgen – Janelle Video Scandal

2012-01-11T20:48:00.000-08:00

Ramgen and Janelle video is the hottest google search nowadays in Philippines .Their naked photos and sex video were all over the networking sites .I 've been out of the country for more than 10 years and I don't know these showbiz personalities are.So, I got curious and google about the two and the scandal video thing. Honestly ,I don't want to watch the video ,I was just curious about who these showbiz personalities are and what made them so popular to the Filipino people.Today, I found out that Ramgen was the son of the late actor and politician Ramon Revilla Sr. And that Ramgen was murdered last October 28,2011 inside their Paranaque residence and the primary suspect is his half sister Ramona Revilla who fled the country. Janelle Manahan got shot twice on her face but fortunately survived the attack.According to sources, someone has uploaded the scandal video of Ramgen and Janelle via Facebook and YouTube obviously to discredit Janelle.The legal concluson could only be that Ramgens mother or any of her children were responsible for uploading the sex video,said by Argee Guevarra ,Jannelle's lawyer.

As I was reading several posts about the couple ,I am saddened about his death and feel sorry for those people who uploaded the sex video .It is a" couple thing "so Janelle has nothing to be ashamed of actually.Whoever spread the video must not be in their right mind and should be the one to be ashamed of themselves for what they have done.I just hope that justice be served to both Ramgen and Janelle.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

2012-01-11T19:41:00.000-08:00

My children loves the karaokee(magic sing) that I bought from the Philipines 5 years ago.Sometimes,me and bunso were the back up dancers while kuya is singing.And of course our show is not complete without the little boy singing his all time favorite song Twinkle Twinkle.He is also obsessesd with the score that he will get at the end of the song.Funny thing is ,he was really trying to read it by himself .Last week,after he sung ,he excitedly said,"look kuya ,I got 36" .We bought laughed out loud ,because the screen says"06". Then he sing again for the second time and this time I have the camera ready for him and the score. He's kuya asked him what did he get after the song.He answered "it's zero" .He read it right this time .I'm so proud of him.

The English lyrics were first published as a poem with the title "The Star" by sisters Ann and Jane Taylor (1783–1824) in Rhymes for the Nursery in London in 1806.

Twinkle, twinkle, little star,

How I wonder what you are.

Up above the world so high,

Like a diamond in the sky.

When the blazing sun is gone,

When he nothing shines upon,

Then you show your little light,

Twinkle, twinkle, all the night.

Then the traveller in the dark,

Thanks you for your tiny spark,

He could not see which way to go,

If you did not twinkle so.

In the dark blue sky you keep,

And often through my curtains peep,

For you never shut your eye,

Till the sun is in the sky.

As your bright and tiny spark,

Lights the traveller in the dark.

Though I know not what you are,

Twinkle, twinkle, little star.

How I wonder what you are.

Up above the world so high,

Like a diamond in the sky.

Twinkle, twinkle, little star.

How I wonder what you are.

The Ugly American

2012-01-10T09:01:00.000-08:00

A Korean-American who holds a top position at the US Embassy shouted invectives at a young Filipino woman whom he nearly bumped with his car last Friday.
Dean I. Chang, the American Embassy’s second secretary, cursed Princess Cordova, 22, after he got out of his Toyota Forerunner car with a Korean-looking woman, apparently his wife.
“You’re a bitch, you’re a bitch!,” Chang was heard shouting at the shocked Cordova who was crossing the driveway of a Korean restaurant on Jupiter Street, Barangay Bel-Air, Makati City.
Chang and his wife were apparently in such a hurry to get into Kaya Restaurant and nearly ran over Cordova, who was also entering the same restaurant with a female friend.
When Cordova told her uncle, Dindo Danao, an advertising executive, about the incident outside with Chang, Danao told her to go to Chang’s table to apologize.
Danao, who was waiting for Cordova inside the restaurant, told his niece she was probably at fault and that’s why the man was angry.
Even if she knew she was not, Cordova nevertheless obeyed Danao and went to Chang to apologize.
She got another mouthful from a man who’s supposed to act like a gentleman since he’s a diplomat.
“Next time I’ll run you over if you get in my way,” Chang shouted at Cordova.
When Danao protested the shabby treatment his niece got from the Korean-American, Chang reportedly challenged him to a fight.
“You wanna square off with me?” Chang said.
Danao called the police.
Chang was arrogant with responding policemen. He wouldn’t show his ID, but gave his name and his position at the US Embassy.
Chang’s identity was confirmed when the head of the responding team, Insp.Rico Ramos, checked with the US Embassy through the numbers Chang gave him.
Ramos told Danao they couldn’t hold Chang as he has diplomatic immunity.
Danao called this columnist who asked to talk to Ramos.
I said that Ramos could hold Chang for a while until members of the media came.
Ramos said he couldn’t do that, but didn’t prevent Danao from barricading Chang’s car.
Chang refused to talk to the media and went back to the restaurant with another US Embassy official who came after he phoned for help.
While Chang, his wife and the other American diplomat talked inside the restaurant, I took down the plate and windshield sticker of Chang’s car.
I surmise that based on his car stickers, Chang is a US serviceman.
One sticker reads: Dept of Defense, B6B 3C3, West Point, New York.
Another sticker says: New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, 20-6-12, No. 0806947.
He has a temporary plate: 097 Diplomatic.
* * *
This is probably the first time a ranking US diplomat quarreled with a Filipino outside the embassy grounds, and a young woman at that.
At the risk of generalizing, in Korea, home of Chang’s forebears, most men have a very low regard for women.
A joke goes that during the Korean War, an American soldier at a checkpoint noticed a man walking some distance behind his wife.
When the American GI asked the Korean man why he walked far behind his wife, the Korean said: “She step on land mine, me safe.”
* * *
Chang is not alone.
The US ambassador, Harry Thomas, is so different from his predecessor, Kristie Kenney.
He once said that foreign tourists came to Manila for sex.
These “diplomats” remind us of that 1960s movie “The Ugly American,” based on a novel by Eugene Burdick and William Lederer about Americans in Southeas Asia.
I’m not referring to their looks, but their character .

By Ramon Tulfo
Philippine Daily Inquirer

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/125295/the-ugly-american

Signs of a Troubled Relationship

2012-01-09T10:44:00.000-08:00

photo by:Nur Emir

How do you know when the relationship is in trouble ?.Do we need help to save it or just say goodbye and walk away?Some couples wait too long to ask for help .They were hoping that the relationship can be repair and strengthened if they give it a time and consideration too long until it is already beyond repair.The sooner we sought for help the better chance of recovering .The longer we wait ,the chance and hope for a change is lost.At a certain point we don't even want change anymore .We just want it to be done and get a new life.

Here are the warning signs that a relationship is in trouble :

1.There is no more intimacy in your relationship.No more sweet kisses, you both were sleeping in different rooms, you do talk but will only end up into anger.
2.Fighting has been a part of your life.There are always reasons to hurt each others feeling as the days pass by.
3.No more attraction.You even can't remember what attracted you to your partner.The thought that he was the most amazing man/woman you have ever met was gone.
4.You spend little time with each other-You feel better with other people.Friends are more importnat than going out with your partner
5.There is a feeling that relationship is over but you don't know where to go or how to start all over again.
6.You feel lonely even if he is around trying to make you happy.You don't care about how much he tries to make you happy anymore.
7.You find comfort,understanding and care to other people.
8.You don't want to talk about your plans and thoughts with him
9.You hate to see his/her face or even hear the once sweetest voice you ever heard in your entire life
10.You lost interest with his activities.
11.When you no longer worry where your partner's at.

So before you reach the critical point or something more drastic things happen such as physical and or verbal abuse , look at the warning signs and do something before it's too late.Talk to a religious advisor or a leader of your church.Seek a marriage councelor or a psychotherapy. Someone who has a Christian counseling degree may be able to help you. Reading books will help too.Without help ,the relationship will not get better and might become worse.Take immediate action to save the relationship and if all things done and nothing has changed then that is the time to walk away and say goodbye.

It's More Fun in the Philippines

2012-01-07T08:57:00.000-08:00

Tourism department's local campaign slogan.

Tourism department's international campaign slogan.

It’s more fun in the Philippines is the new tourism slogan by the Department of Tourism.Despite the recent calamities in our country we still believe that the country is still worth visiting for.Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. said during the event that they "want the world not to watch but to participate" in the new campaign and that we need a line that is easily understood.So what is "more fun" to do in the Philippines?see their new website http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/ .The DOT is confident to reach the target of 10 million tourist by year 2016 and expects some 4.2 tourist this year.The Philippines has not only the best tourist attractions in the world but wherever you go, it's the Filipinos that will make your holiday unforgettable.In fact, Lonely Planet guidebook calls us 'among the most easygoing and ebullient people anywhere,'" the website said.

Here are some of the place worth visiting for.
Palawan, known for white sand beaches , exotic wild lifeand the underground river.
Banaue Rice Terraces,described as the Eighth Wonder of the World
Boracay, world's famous beach.
Corregidor Island, a historical site and a tourist destination
Bohol, which has the world famous Chocolate Hills and diving spots like Panglao and Balicasag
Vigan City ,Ilocos Sur, where you can find the St. Paul’s Cathedral - built in 1790-1800,Palacio de Arzobispado,Old Vigan Colonial Houses
Tubbataha Reefs, an excellent diving spot located in the Sulu Sea of the Philippines.

I agree that the Philippines has lots to offer but there are also a lot of things to be done such as the airport where in the corrupt immigration and custom personnel are waiting , the dirty environment surrounding the airport , heavy traffic and more.

Good luck Philippines ! May the new slogan boost the tourism industry.

Phil Health Circular No.22 s.2011 - New Premium Contribution

2012-01-04T09:03:00.000-08:00

Circular No. 22 s.2011.

Subject: New Premium Contributions to the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) in Support to the Attainment of Universal Health Care and Millennium Development Goals (MDG).
http://www.philhealth.gov.ph/circulars/2011/circ22_2011.pdf

So this is it, the goverment already made it clear to the public that whether we like it or not especially the OFW's, the proposed Phil health payment will be implemented. The rate will increase starting July 1 ,2012 from P900 to P2,400.More than one hundred percent increase is unacceptable even if we say that all the medical expenses rate is high.

Obviously ,this circular was made for all the OFW to comply.It is compulsary , else we will not be allowed to leave the country.They know better than us that all OFW's will pay no matter what the costs are just to leave and work overseas.It is an opportunitiy for the POEA to get hold of the OFW'S hard earned money with consent.A legal way of thief and robbery in my opinion.Just imagine how many OFW's are processing their exit document daily .It would be millions of pesos yearly that only a few will benefit or shall we say the corrupt government will benefit the most.

Is Marriage Really Important at All ?

2012-01-03T15:00:00.000-08:00

photo by:Nur Emir

Or shall we just stay out of it? Why do people get married? Is it because of love or companionship? What difference does it make if we just live together, have children without a piece of paper called marriage license?Do not get me wrong, I am not against marriage .In fact, I am happily married and if I have to choose between being single and married, I would definitely choose the last one.

I have been married twice, obviously the first one was a failure .We ended up into a divorced but that experienced did not stop me from falling in love again and enter into a complicated yet fulfilling family life once more. My husband now is a wonderful man and I cannot ask for more. But ,marriage is not always a bed of roses ,couples do argue and fight once in a while which is normal .I mean normal in the sense that none of you hit each other, throw furnitures into each others face or anything which is beyond your control. A petty lover's quarrel and little misunderstanding added spice in a couple's life.I remember one time, we just got married when we had our first and only big fight over a pair of shoes. I want to keep them inside the cabinet shelves together with some other shoes while he wanted it right on his bedside. We argued over it. I got mad and did not talk to him for a day. He was pissed off for the silent treatment so he packed all of my things to throw me back into my company hostel. I got up from the bed, grabbed my purse, said "Bye!" and headed to the stairways. He stopped me and was pleading to talk things over and not to leave him. Luckily we did end up together again and his working pair of shoes still stays on his bedside until now. I guess, he won or we both won?.But who cares anyway.What I like from my husband is his being sweet and understanding and most of all, he loves me more than I love him. Oh, if given a chance to go back from my past, I will still choose him .

There are people who prefers live-in over marriage.Whatever their reasons are is non of our business.We all have choices to stay in love and that is to find the right one to grow old together whether by getting into a marriage or just living in together for good or for a short period of time. Whatever it is, one thing is for sure,love always finds a way. Don't stop from loving all over again if things did not work out for the first time.

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T12:02:00.000-08:00

Year 2011 may not be one of the best year for me.There were ups and downs but that is a part of life, the important thing is how well I handled whatever problems I encounterd along the way .For years that had passed ,I learned to be happy and contented with what I have.I may not be rich financially but I am proud to say that I have all the things I want in my life now and I cannot ask for more.

As for my blogging ,I started with "Blog and Me"2 years ago followed by 'Food Corner" a follow up blog which was made because of my love for cooking .The 3rd one, "My Other Blog" was made for my love for contests and give aways posts. Unfortunately ,I haven't win yet with all the contest that I joined in but still hoping to win the best ever blog contest someday.I may not be one of the best blogger or one of the top ranking blog but I don't care as long as I enjoyed wrting and happy to know that there are some people who visits and enjoys reading my posts. I can say that the best thing that happened to me was the Filipino Bloggers Worldwide group in Face book .I created the group on November 1,2011 out of my love for blogging.I was able to connect with other bloggers and gain a lot of friends through this group.My Alexa ranking goes up and my '"Blog and Me " made it to the final 3 for Lifetime Achievement Award in TABA : The Annual Kalsada Blog Awards 2011.

This is my 1st post for the year 2012 and definitely the last one for the year 2011. I hope your year was as good as mine and whatever you want to accomplish this year .I wish you all the best and may your dreams come true.

Goodbye 2011 and Hello 2012.

The 28 Golden Rules for Mistresses

2011-12-29T23:44:00.000-08:00

For those working overseas or commonly known as OFW, being a mistress or knowing somebody who is a mistress is not knew anymore.But don't blame it all to women becasue there will be no mistress if only husbands are faithful to their wives back home.So if you are a mistress,querida or kabit ,read carefully and learn if you want peace and harmony under your roof.

1. Mistress is not Mrs. Know your place.
2. Even if he tells you he loves you more than his wife, don’t let that go to your head.
3. Mistresses should be ready to give up Valentine’s Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Holy Week and his birthday (that’s why mistresses are also called “holiday orphans" because of this).
4. Befriend his secretary but avoid all contact with his driver (Whether he is a company driver or the family driver, the chauffeur is not to be trusted. Family drivers owe their allegiance to whoever pays them their salary and who feeds them the free meals in the kitchen with the other help. In short, they are loyal to the Mrs. more than the Mr.).
5. As tempting as it seems, don’t patronize the wife’s beauty parlor, jewelry shop, dress shop, or father confessor.
6. Don’t call him, wait for him to call.
7. To be seen with him in public once is risky. The second time could be fatal to one of you. The third time is The End for both of you (love is lovelier when it’s forbidden. Because it’s forbidden, it’s supposed to be hidden).
8. Never believe, and never say anything unfriendly about his wife, not even after he recites a litany of her faults.
9. Mistresses are kept by rich men. But a mistress who is a woman of substance and independent means is better (Translation: Don’t ask him for money).
10. Be discreet (Make sure he is not the type to talk in the sleep).
11. Never travel together (Accidents will always happen. You can never tell).
12. When he breaks a date, charge it to fate, not his fecklessness (Men will be boys. They will forget to call. They will break a date at the last minute. They will stand you up. They won’t explain and they won’t ask for forgiveness. But don’t cry nor throw a tantrum. Don’t break down because a mistress is supposed to understand a man more than his wife does).
13. Wives have their own networks of spies and amigas. It is helpful for the mistress to have her own. A chaperone is not a good idea, however (Chaperones are passe. Besides, they talk).
14. Mistresses don’t complain (They shouldn’t. It’s the wives, according to the husbands, who are “always complaining").
15. Being No. 2, the mistress tries harder.
16. Send him home as soon as it becomes apparent that he’s overstaying.
17. It is practical for a mistress to be linked to another man, preferably her lover’s friend.
18. If he’s a public man and you’re thinking of staging an accident of running into him, think: How many accidents can I pull off in one month?
19. Don’t make unnecessary enemies of his children.
20. Remind him to pay for everything in cash – dinner, flowers, perfume, champagne, pearls, diamonds, a microwave oven, etc….
21. Don’t use tears as a weapon. He’s probably had enough of that from the Mrs. (Wives nag. Wives cry. If only for that reason, a mistress doesn’t use tears to get what she wants).
22. Resist the urge to be found.
23. Perish all thought that someday you’ll be No. 1.
24. Married men who keep mistresses don’t like surprises, as a rule.
25. A man with a mistress leads a double life, his mistress only a half life. Cheer up! A career will make you whole.
26. Resist the urge to shower him with gifts. Evidence, evidence….!
27. When in doubt, disappear.
28. When all else fails, leave him.

by Ms. Julie Yap Daza in her book "Etiquette for Mistresses."

The New One Peso Coin

2011-12-27T14:08:00.000-08:00

As the year ends, Bangko Central ng Pilipinas has begun circulating 10 million pieces of the new One Peso coin to commemorate the 150th Birth Anniversary of the Philippines National Hero Jose P. Rizal.The coin is 24 millimeters in diameter at 5.35 grams , the same size and weight as the one-peso coin now in circulation .On the side of Rizal's portrait is etched "150 years","Republika ng Pilipinas "and "1861-2011".The reverse side carries the new BSP seal, “1-piso,” and “2011”. For many decades now, Rizal is still the proud owner or face of the 1-peso coin.

I was just wondering if we really needed a new coin.All I know is that placing historical figure in our currency is one way for us to remember the Philppine History.I grew up noticing that coins and bills are exchanged every now and then but hardly take the time to reflect on the design or even read the text on them.

Lapu-lapu used to be on the one-centavo coin and was last seen in the aluminum coin with his earrings and head gear . It was so light it could float on water and was even used by the tailors as buttons. I haven't seen one but would love to have it to give to my coin collector husband.

Ways to Keep a Burning Relationship

2011-12-25T10:21:00.000-08:00

photo by: Nur Emir

1. Sweet Kiss -.Show your love early in the morning by kissing ,who cares about the bad breathe and don't fall asleep without connecting with each other.A good night kiss is a show of love and who knows it might go into something more romantic and intimate.Keep on kissing your partner not only before and after going to bed but anytime you want to inside your house or even in public if you can.

2.Change the Routine - We usually do same thing everyday like eating together ,watch tv,etc .Why not break the routine,instead of just eating together ,why not lit a candle for a romantic dinner or do something sexy while watching tv with lighted scented candles or sit together over the roof watching the moon kiss the night.

3.Date occassionaly- Since when was you last date ? It's been ages I guess .Yeah ,we don't have time for this anymore,kids are multiplying and growing.You are on a tight budget and no time for other activities that will cost you money.Don't let your family life ruin your lovelife together. Do something,have a date once a month ,it doesn't matter what you do.Dress up together for a restaurant dinner.A walk in the park ,ball game,something that is different from your usual activities.

4. A proper greetings - Little gesture like meeting your partner at the door from work with a smile and kiss makes a big difference.Don't just yell on the other room and ask how's his day .A romantic gesture will go along way.

5.No occassion messages- Now that text messaging and Facebook plays a big part in our lives there is no reason for us not to get connected with our love ones .A text message at the middle of the day is so simple yet very powerful.Knowing that you were thinking of him/her is one way of showing that you care.

6. A surprise note- Everybody loves surprises .A simple note saying how much you love him/her or he'll be missed at his absence.A simple but meaningful notes really adds spice to your relationship.You can put a handwritten note in his/her briefcase or purse.

7.Be there even if you are apart- Keep the fire burning.If your better half is on a bussiness trip or traveling alone,keep a note at his brief case and a text mesagges from time to time aside from the regular calls.It would be nice to know that he /she is safe somewhere and will stop you from worrying a lot too.

History of Christmas

2011-12-24T08:36:00.000-08:00

Christ's exact birth date is not known.Traditions says that is was celebrated as early as 98 AD.In 137 AD, the Bishop of Rome ordered Christ's birthday to be celebrated as a solemn feast. In 350 AD, the then Bishop of Rome, Julius I, choose December 25th for the observance of Christmas.

It was believe that Christmas traditions were celebrated way back centuries before Christ was born.Some of the theories claimed that Christmas celebrartion was invented by Christians to compete with the pagan's December celebration and eventually the church succeeded in integrating lights,gifts and some of the merriments from the Saturnalia festival into Christmas Celbrations.Saturnalia is a fesrtival celebrated by the Romans for their god Saturn which ran from 17 to 24 December.Celebrations includes exchanging of good luck gifts with friends, masquerades in the streets and festive meals. Sacaea, celebrated by the Persians and Babylonians, was a similar festival during which slaves and masters would exchange roles.They used decorations of garlands of laurel and green trees lit with candles. The fun and festivities in honour of a pagan god were frowned on by the early Christians who wanted to keep the birth of Christ a solemn and a religious festival.

Gifts giving ,carolings,church processions and the 12 dyas of Christmas can be all traced back to the early Mesopotamians.During winter the sun would disappear in Scandinavia and when it returned ,a Yuletide celebration was held and a special feast served around a burning Yule log fire.Early Europians believed in evil spirits.As the dark winter days approached,celebrations and special rituals were held to drive away the evil and welcome back the sun.The Celtic culture of the British Isles revered all green plants, particularly mistletoe and holly and were become important symbols of fertility and used for decorating homes and altars.The earliest English reference to 25 December as Christmas Day dates back from 1043.

Although the true spirit of Christmas has not been known to others,it remains as a traditional time for the families family reunions,enjoy a meal, exchange presents and make merry.

Merry Christmas! however you choose to celebrate it.

Christmas Vacation

2011-12-20T21:47:00.000-08:00

My 2 kids are both in school and today is their last day for a Christmas vacation although the eldest made it 4 days earlier because of exams exemption. It is a two weeks vacation and I consider going somewhere instead of staying home and do nothing.It would be nice to go on a trip to California as requested by my eldest son and at the same time visit a closed friend and his godmother.He was asking if we could go on a road trip then stay overnight in a hotel .I told him why not but the problem is I don't want to drive too long especially at night for fear of getting lost at the middle of nowhere.On the second thought,a travel by air is a much better idea than by land considering that I have a 3 years old son to go with us.A long drive would be very exhausting for him and besides I can't imagine myself driving 2,000 miles from Oklahoma to California .A plane ride saves us a lot of time and energy without worrying a lot on the road. I will just get a trusted luxury car hire once we get to the airport.I already checked for a cheap air fare and rent a car online .Luckily,I found the Dollar Car Rental with locations all over US and is also available in South Africa and Namibia. One thing that makes me so excited about it aside from a very affordable price and a large selection of quality vehicles that they offer to costumers is their branch in Los Angeles International Airport(LAX).

For a tight budget mom like me, a low rate and a reliable car is a big factor so I really get the best deal possible online.

Pres. Aquino is Partying while the Country is Mourning

2011-12-18T17:51:00.000-08:00

It is amazing how social media plays an important part in our life. One tweet or Facebook Shout out will reach millions of people and create a big impact.The latest is a tweet form Actress -host Valerie Concepcion from her performance at the Malacanang Palace's Christmas Party.

I am out of the country for years now and know a little about how Philippine President Aquino run the goverment .I don't want to judge him right away upon reading many articles about his partying while the country is mourning for the victims of typhoon Sendong that hit Cagayan De Oro and Iligan City so badly which has risen to 927 as of this date. The timing was just probably wrong. There is nothing wrong in partying with his staff . I believe that the issue here is about sensitivity. As I have said ,I am not in the right position to judge him.Let us all hope that the negative impact this tweet has made to him will be forgotten as soon as he move his behind for the city's fast recovery.We need action Mr. President and not just press release from your office.President Benigno Aquino III according to the NDRRMC may visit and inspect Cagayan de Oro and Iligan Cities after Christmas but later on was moved before Christmas.

As of this writing,Valerie deleted the said tweet and posted another one in response to the negative reactions of people and probably the governmeent. in her tweet ,she said,

“I just want to clarify that I was invited to perform at Malacañang‘s Christmas Party for their employees with their husbands/wives and kids. Yes, the president attended the gathering. I do not see anything wrong with that since it’s his obligation and responsibility being the head of Malacañang to be present and show his support for his hardworking employees and their respective families. But I believe that it doesn’t mean that the president is not thinking of ways to help our kababayan(s) in Mindanao. It doesn’t mean that the president is disregarding the plight of our fellow Filipinos. Let’s not be too quick to judge.
“…But if I, in any way, offended you guys and sounded insensitive, I am very sorry. It wasn’t my intention to do either. I can’t imagine how difficult life is for the people affected in Mindanao and how difficult it is to be the president of the Philippines at this moment. Once again, I am very sorry for all those people I have offended. May God bless us all.”

Help the Victims of Typhoon Sendong

2011-12-17T06:43:00.000-08:00

Typhoon Sendong hit the Cagayan De Oro City at Iligan City and the latest body counts reached 600 plus and several hundreds are still missing. If you want to help in kind or in cash,below is the list where you can send your donations .We all can help even in small ways.

They are in need of bottled water,blanket,medicines,mats,towels ,off lotion,food,tooth brush,clothes. Volunteers are needed too.

Photo: Mark Landicho

Photo: Help CDO FB Page

DROP-OFF POINTS
Ateneo School of Government and Kaya Natin! - will accept donations from Dec. 19-21 only, 10am to 10pm. Clothes, blankets, ready-to-eat food, toiletries and bottled water accepted. Bring to Fr. Ortiz Hall, Social Development Complex, Ateneo, QC.
Bigby’s – branches in Megamall, Ayala Cebu, SM City Cebu Northwing, Abreeza Davao, SM City Davao, SM City Bacolod, Limketkai Center, SM City Cagayan de Oro, Robinson’s Place General Santos
DSWD Field Office NCR: San Rafael St., Legarda, Manila
DSWD Field Office IV-A: Alabang-Zapote Road, Alabang, Muntinlupa City 1770
Tel. No.: (02) 807-4140 Fax No.: (02) 807-1518
Contact: Gina Laranan 09108860826
DSWD Field Office IV-B: 1680 F. T. Benitez St., Malate Manila
Contact: Shiela Tapia (02) 5252445
GMA 5 (Davao) – Please leave donations at Shrine Hills, Matina, Davao (info from @mindanaoan)
GMA Kapuso Foundation – for info on where to bring donations in kind, click HERE
Kristohanong Katilingban sa Pagpakaban (coordinated with Xavier University) – call (088) 8583116 loc 3210 for details
National Resource Operations Center (NROC) – Chapel Rd. Pasay City (Back of Air Transportation Office)
Contact: Francia Fabian 0918 9302356
La Salle Greenhills - will start accepting donations Monday, Dec. 19 (info taken from HERE)
Donations in cash and kind will be received at Gate 2 of La Salle Green Hills at 343 Ortigas Avenue, Mandaluyong City 1550. You may call any of the following telephone numbers for further inquiries:
Alumni Office — 721-2729, 722-7750, 725-4720
GS Principal — 721-2482
HS Principal — 721-8914
Buildings and Grounds Office — 721-8904 (Telefax)
La Sallian Mission Office — 726-5851 (Telefax)
LBC Foundation – bottled water, food, blankets, clothes, etc. Drop off your donations at the nearest LBC branch nearest you, nationwide. Call (632) 8585-999 to find the closest LBC branch. Donations must be addressed to LBC Foundation; they cannot ship for free if goods are addressed to specific consignees.
Mercato Centrale (BGC) / Soderno (Alabang) - bottled water, rice, canned goods, bottled water, utensils, toothbrush, mats, used clothes, blankets
Moonleaf Tea Shop, Maginhawa St., QC – They’re open every day, 10AM to 11PM.
The Philippine Daily Inquirer, 1098 Chino Roces ave Mascado cor Yague, Makati ph.+63 2 8978808 Ms. Kasilag/Ms. Kalagayan.
Sagip Kapamilya ABS-CBN Foundation Inc., Mother Ignacia cor. Eugenio Lopez St., Diliman, QC – for goods in kind
Sen. Kiko Pimentel – accepting donations starting Dec. 19 at Room 512, GSIS Building, Senate of the Philippines. Contact person: Ron Munsayac (new media group)
TV5 Kapatid Foundation Inc. - Donations in kind like food, clothing, utensils, blankets, mats, water containers, and medicines may be sent to News5 Aksyon Center, TV5 office in San Bartlolome, Novaliches, Quezon City. For inquiries, please call News5 Aksyon Center hotline – 938-6393.
Xavier University KKP-SIO – cash, food, bottled water, clean clothes. You can drop them off at the Xavier University KKP-SIO.

CASH DONATIONS (INTERNATIONAL)
Ateneo de Manila University – please see how to donate HERE
GMA Kapuso Foundation – for info on how to donate dollars, click HERE
HELPCDO (PayPal Donations) – Proceeds will be donated and delivered to Xavier University Cagayan de Oro where the members of CDOBloggers are planning to volunteer. (Note: Info received c/o Ria Jose)
Email Address for PayPal donation: francis.siason@gmail.com
ONE FOR ILIGAN – a Google doc that tells you how you can donate at least US$1 via PayPal
Your Donations will be shown at: http://www.iliganbloggers.com/
For donations on Paypal, your names and initials HERE
Simbahang Lingkod (info taken from HERE)
Direct deposits may be made online from any BPI branches, pay to:
Account Name/Payee: SIMBAHANG LINGKOD NG BAYAN
Bank Name: Bank of the Philippine Islands (Loyola-Katipunan Branch)
Dollar Savings Account Number: 3084-0420-12
TV5 Kapatid Foundation Inc.
BDO Savings Account No. 005310-410164
Bank of the Philippine Islands Savings Account No. 1443-05333-2
For inquiries, please call News5 Aksyon Center hotline – 938-6393.

CASH DONATIONS (WITHIN THE PHILIPPINES)
For Globe subscribers:
via SMS, c/o Red Cross – text RED and send to 2899 – valid donation amounts are P5, 25, 50, 100, 300, 500 and 1000 (For ex, RED 10). Transaction is free.
via GCASH, text DONATE and send to 2882
For Smart subscribers:
via SMS, c/o Red Cross – text RED and send to 4143 – valid donation amounts are P10, 25, 50, 100, 300, 500, 1000 (For ex, RED 10). Transaction is free.
via Smart Money acct. no. 5577-5130-6822-1104 (Baha Fund for Typhoon) at any BDO, Hapinoy or Cebuana Lhuiller outlets. P2.50/text
Ateneo de Manila University – please see how to donate HERE
GMA Kapuso Foundation – for information on how to send Philippine pesos, click HERE
Pilipinas Natin HQ (contact PN Head June Joson at CP 0915-855-2599; 0939-9372353)
Red Cross (cash/check)
Account Name: Philippine Red Cross
Bank Name: Banco De Oro
Peso Savings Account: 453-0018647
RockEd Radio (for soup kitchen and bottled water fund)
Bank Name: BPI Loyola
Account Number: 3080-0073-44
Simbahang Lingkod (info taken from HERE)
Direct deposits may be made online from any BPI branches, pay to:
Account Name/Payee: SIMBAHANG LINGKOD NG BAYAN
Bank Name: Bank of the Philippine Islands (Loyola-Katipunan Branch)
Peso Checking Account Number: 3081-1111-61
Xavier University, Tabang Sendong
Account Name: Xavier University
Bank Name: Bank of the Philippine Islands, CDO Divisoria Branch
Account Number: 9331-0133-63

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Metro Manila: National Resource Operations Centers (NROC) – Chapel Rd. Pasay City (Back of Air Transportation Office)
Contact: Francia Fabian 0918 9302356
DSWD - Cagayan de Oro (Masterson Rd, Upper Carmen).
Contact: Manny Borres (0906) 6150095 or 858-8892

Look for Erika Cruz (09052802002)
See at Rizal Park at 8AM everyday, until the need subsides
DSWD - Cagayan de Oro (Masterson Rd, Upper Carmen). Call (0906) 6150095 or 858-8892 – to repack and deliver relief goods

Source How to help victims of Tropical Storm Sendong

School Achievements

2011-12-10T12:51:00.000-08:00

I always blog about my youngest son J but never about my eldest son R. He just turned 13 years old last month and I mentioned in one of my posts about the birthday present that we bought for him at the black Friday Shopping .It was an expensive present but he deserves it being a good son and an achiever at his age .When we moved to US on October.2010 ,the first thing we did was to enroll him to school because he was already 2 months behind for 6th Grade. After series of qualifying exams,he was promoted from 6th grade to 8th grade(Junior High School).The teacher said that based on the test result he is qualified for a 12th grade class but at his age(12 years old)the school just decided to put him on 8th Grade.Despite his being a new immigrant and everybody was a complete stranger to him ,he still managed an straight A's grades and graduated co Valedictorian at the end of the school year .He is now in high school,the youngest among his classmates and still at the top of his class.His hobbies are singing,painting, playing golf and reading .His love for drawing started at the age of 2 and I still keep all of them with me. His favorite model is non other than me . I am really proud of him.

This is a plaque for winning the school singing competition

Winter is Up

2011-12-08T05:22:00.001-08:00

It is already snowing in other places and definitely winter but here in my place snow just started early this morning and it is freezing cold . Snow is fun to play with and for photo shoot but it is actually the most hated season of the year.I have taken photos of my children on the way to the road to wait for the school bus .My kids has 3 layers of clothes a long jones aside from the pants .I need to cover them with thick clothes or else they will be freezing to death outside .This is their only 2nd winter in the US and they were enjoying it a lot but not me.

Getting ready to school.They don't seems cold but I was while taking their photos just for my blog.

These last 3 photos were taken last year which was their 1st winter so I let them enjoy the snow fall.

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Memories of Christmas

2011-12-05T11:04:00.001-08:00

We went to Hobby Lobby last week.My husband is a coin collector and usually goes there to buy stuff for his coin collection hobby .After he got all the stuff he needed we walked around to look for some Christmas decors.He told me to choose the Christmas tree that I want to.Being the kuripot (stingy0 me ,I told him that I will think about it first.I like Christmas tree but I don't like the price from that store.Anyway,I was thinking of getting me one in some other place.

December is the most awaited year of the month because of Christmas. It is surprising how people celebrate their Christmas according to their countries tradition. Here in the US Christmas preparation starts right after Thanksgiving.Unlike in the Philippines, we have the longest Christmas preparation which started at the "ber" months.I missed a lot of this when I started working overseas in 1999. I was always away from home every Christmas and New year .I only get connected with them through phone ,mailed photos,Friendster and now at Facebook.I used to spend my vacation during summer to Philippines and US but never on a Christmas Season .Gone are the days when I was still in the Philippines celebrating Christmas with my parents and siblings.We had so much fun together with children opening their christmas gifts,spending christmas days with other relatives,sharing the food that my mom prepared for us and attending the christmas eve mass.Looking at their photos.I relly feel sad and miss them so much.Some times,I wish to go back to those days again just to be with them.

It seems that the cold weather makes me feel nostalgic today.Memories do come and go just to give way to a new and better one.Merry Christmas to all!

Christmas 2010 back home

Christamas tree at my parents house as early as October ,2011

My 2 sisters and little nephews having fun at the stairways except for other one who looks lost.

My niece who is a certified photo addict.I stole all these photos from her FB album

Ateneo No SPEED Limit - January 29 2012

2011-12-03T14:54:00.001-08:00

No SPEED Limit, is a benefit run organized by Ateneo Special Education Society (Ateneo SPEED). No SPEED Limit this year offers a unique 3K, 5K,10K and 15K route both inside and outside the Ateneo campus, reaching parts of Katipunan Avenue. For the benefit of Batino Elementary School, Ateneo SPEED aims to aid in the further development of teachers in one of the largest public special education institution in Quezon City.

This event is OPEN TO PUBLIC! Please invite your family and friends to join.

RACE CATEGORIES and REGISTRATION FEES

15K Route: P750
10K Route: P500
5K Route: P400
3K Route: P350

GUN START

15K: 4:45 AM
10K: 5:00 AM
5K: 5:15 AM
3K: 5:30 AM

CASH & CONSOLATION PRIZES

15K
1st Place: 6,000
2nd Place: 4,000
3rd Place: 1,500

10K
1st Place: P4,000
2nd Place: P3,000
3rd Place: P1,000

5K
1st Place: P2,500
2nd: P1,000
3rd: Consolation Prizes

3K
1st: Consolation Prizes
2nd: Consolation Prizes
3rd: Consolation Prizes

REGISTRATION VENUES

Online Registration

Download the registration form HERE and send an accomplished copy tonospeedlimit2012@yahoo.com. Payment and race kit pickup options will be sent to you.

For more details, like us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/NSL2012

Registration Inside Ateneo de Manila University

KOSTKA EXTENSION	DOGHOUSE
December 5 to 9	December 9 to 16

For registration venues outside of Ateneo, please wait for further announcements.

CONTACT
For Sponsorship & Registration Inquiries:
Text/ Call: Abby @ 0917-691-9500 and 0922-863-0433
Email: nospeedlimit2012@yahoo.com

See you on January 29, 2012! Run for the kids! Run for fun!

Source: Not So Random Thoughts.