mye domain

thank GOD, there is facebook

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 08:37:00 +0000

Nowadays, people from around the world enjoy the convenience of using the internet. May it be for business or leisure, local or international news, entertainment, lifestyle and even online games. Just one click of a button and we can already reach places far across the globe. This advancement of technology paves the way to communicate better and easier. We can meet new and exciting friends and we can also find long-lost friends and acquaintances using global social networking websites like Friendster, Multiply and Facebook.

One afternoon of September 12, while I was busy organizing my new photo album in Facebook, I thought of searching one of my old friend's name and fortunately, I find her profile and immediately sent my friend request. She was then online and I received an immediate confirmation and that's it. We started to chat and we both felt an overwhelming gladness that after more than a decade, we were able to get in touch. We could hardly believe that we're talking again like we used to. Many times, I tried to send Menchie or Tess a mail but I never did. Thank God, there is Facebook, now we can hear from each other more often.

We have our own families now and they look very contented and happy as I do with my three kids and my beloved husband.

It's so nice to be connected again. I just hope we'll meet in person one of these days.

our bundle of joy

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 07:13:00 +0000

When we laid eyes on his cute little face

our hearts are filled with delight.

With his two little pinkish feet
that look so soft and light.

Now that his around

our home is much complete.

His presence keeps us busy
We must not surrender nor retreat.

At one month old
he mostly wants to sleep.

On his second month
Papa can carry him with a safely grip.

Third month comes
and he can be bathed with little support.

Mama can relax for a while
to gain much needed effort.

And now that he's four months old
we enjoy him even more

Our lives become brighter and more meaningful
for we have baby Kiko whom we most adore.

mom 24/7

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 05:28:00 +0000

Being a new mother again after almost 10 years is an experience of mixed emotions. I thought I was only gifted to raise two undeniably good kids but to my surprise, another boy came out of my tummy through a third c-section operation. Now, I found myself with a bib on my right hand and a feeding bottle on my left. I realized that I am no longer a working mother but a "mom 24/7". It's not an easy job. It's challenging, very demanding and requires full attention, much effort and most of all... time consuming. I am not a first-time mom but it's my first time to be a full time mom.

Yes, I am organized and detail-oriented. Maybe those are good traits I got from my mother but doing domestic chores simultaneously is somehow difficult and getting things done faster is likewise. Each passing day is a one-woman-show except for weekends and during my hubby's day off.

Our house as my workplace now is much simpler to manage than to supervise a group of people with diversity of characters. The hard part is: I work alone with no one to turn to. What's cooking in the kitchen is hotter than an argument over the target sales for the month. Washing the dishes... cleaning the house... preparing the kids for school... aside from taking care of my baby and providing his everyday necessities form part of my routine 24 hours, seven days a week. I no longer prepare regular reports but I have to know the next menu to be served the following day.

Then I question myself: why does Bebeth, my housemaid for almost 5 years has to leave me just when I needed her most? I know, she has to because she too is expecting her first child come December. I can hardly find another Bebeth whom I considered a family.

No career is more stressful than being a full time mom but it's a rewarding experience. It may not require a diploma but the skills and expertise that a mother holds are much more honorable.

I am getting used to this new job. I know that I may not be the best mom but I will do my best to become one.

it's a boy inside my belly

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 05:25:00 +0000

Like most expectant mothers, I already prepared a name for my upcoming baby. One name for a boy: Francis Dan Riel, derived from

Francisco - name of my father-in-law
Danilo - name of my father
Ariel - my husband's name

two selections for a girl: Karla Ariesa and Lourina Therese, originated from

Ariel and Theresa - my husband's name and mine
Lourdes and Marina - my mother's name and name of my mother-in-law

Since, we have already a daughter and a son, the baby's gender was no longer an issue to us. But my OB-Gyne recommended a pelvic ultrasound during my fifth moth of pregnancy. The fact that I was having pre-term labor, she would like to know the fetal size, check on the placenta and amniotic fluid. She wanted to determine what caused my abdomen to harden frequently.

THE ULTRASOUND REPORT:

Within a gravid uterus is a single fetal structure, presently in cephalic presentation with biparietal diameter of 6.0 cm, femoral length of 4.5 cm and abdominal circumference of 20.4 cm equivalent to 24 weeks 3 days, 24weeks 3 days and 24 weeks 6 days age of gestation, respectively. Real time scan show active somatic movement and vigorous cardiac pulstations with HR = 134 beat/min. Placenta is posterior, grade l maturity with no evidence of previa. Amniotic fluid is aduquate with AFV = 12 cm. EFW = 773 g.

IMPRESSION:

SINGLE, LIVE, INTRAUTERINE PREGNANCY , PRESENTLY CEPHALIC WOTH COMPOSITE AOG OF 24 WEEKS 4 DAYS BY BPD, FL AND AC. POSTERIOR PLACENTA, GRADE I
NORMOHYDRAMNIOS.
MALE FETUS.

This video shows my baby's fetal heartbeat

While this video shows how we warmly welcome our baby
K I K O

Every worry fades away
when I hold him in my arms...

Happiness is beyond compare
knowing my pains caused him no harm.

Practicality wise

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 08:13:00 +0000

My belly was eight months old in this photo. I was having uterine contractions already and some symptoms that indicated an early onset of labor like:

*A contraction more often withing one hour
*Menstrual-like cramps
*Low, dull backache
*Pelvic pressure that feels like the baby is pushing down
*Abdominal cramps

Although everything was ready for my unexpected delivery, my husband and I were still hoping and praying that the baby would come out on the date we have set since I would be giving birth through CS operation One thing more, I was scheduled to be admitted at Santissima Trinidad Hospital in Malolos, Bulacan where I would also be undergoing Tubal Ligation.

Any operations done in Manila whether it be in ordinary hospitals are so expensive. The package ranges from Php 40,000 to as much as more than 100,000 depending on the method of delivery and type of hospital room. We decided to travel that far because of practical reasons and since the OB-Gyne who operated me 10 years ago is the same doctor who performed the C-section and ligation. The only difference is, she now owns the hospital unlike before wherein she only held affiliation.

i am back with a story to tell

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 07:11:00 +0000

Truly , I am back and now making up for the lost times. I've gone through a lot for almost a year. It's like entering into a world that seems new but everything else is proverbial. My body is now recuperating while my heart feels an overflowing grace of bringing another new life again.

I want to share with you my story... quite an ordeal but a rewarding experience. It was a great relief when I saw my third child for the first time.

THE CONFIRMATION:
My first ultrasound done dated November 14, 2008 wasn't a good news yet so I have to undergo another TVS. Fortunately, the result showed a live fetus with good cardiac activity.

This was a clear confirmation that I was pregnant. There was no blighted ovum and it took away our worries. My husband and I left the ultrasound clinic around lunch time and we headed to my OB-Gyne for a check up. She gave me some first trimester medications like Folic acid, Duphaston and Isoxilan to prevent me from pre-mature labor because there's a subchorionic hemorrhage seen inside my uterus. She also adviced me to have a complete bed rest.

MY HEALTH PROBLEMS:
Although my blood pressure was normal during the nine-month term, I had suffered health problems like;

Shingles or Herpes Zoster - this is a disease caused by Varicella Virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. It appears to be a painful and irritating rash on one side of the body like what happen to me during my 16th week of pregnancy. It started when I noticed my skin under my breast was like feeling sensitive when touched. After a day or two, blisters were beginnng to show up and I started to be uncomfortable with those tiny eruptions. I was so bothered about it so, I had to see my doctor immediately. I also consulted a dermatologist and according to her, the virus was dormant in the spinal nerve roots. After several years being stored, it will appear again in the form of Shingles. Because I was pregnant then, my immune system became weak so the virus reactivated. No medications had been prescribed to ease up my discomfort except Vitamin B complex. I just washed them with the juice extract from boiled guava leaves and it really helped in the healing process. The infection lasted for three weeks. No noticeable marks were left in my skin but recalling the pain is unbearable.

These images showed how I suffered from SHINGLES.

The illness was such an alarm but my husband and I were relieved when the doctor said that there's no scientific evidence to suggest that it will have adverse effects on my unborn baby.

Fever and Chills - On my 26th week, I woke up one midnight feeling so cold and my whole body was shaking. I immediately called my husband's attention and he hurriedly covered me with his blanket. The chilling was an indication that I have high fever with a temperature of 39.8 °C. That caused another panic. I lost my appetite but I have to eat to nourish the baby inside me. I prayed that nothing would harm my unborn child... not a high fever or any viral infection. I was so scared. I cried a lot but my husband was always around to pacify and assure me that nothing bad will happen to our baby. God was so good that I have overcome that dilemma. I got well after four days.

Severe Dermatitis - Skin asthma is an allergy that runs in our family aside from lung asthma. I've been in agony since my teenage days with Atopic Dermatitis. It's in my blood and I will suffer this birthright for the rest of my life. Unfortunately, I've experienced the worst of this disease during my 34th week. My face was swollen and my neck was extremely red and itchy. I used cold compress on the affected area to alleviate the soreness since I couldn't apply any steroidal cream because I was pregnant. I felt restless, hopeless and apprehensive. What more should I bear until I safely deliver my baby? I started to have some unpleasant thoughts. I couldn't wait to see my third child. I prayed hard and just trust in Him. I was rushed to The Medical City, one Sunday evening because I could no longer stand the discomfort and stress. There's no available dermatologist that time so, my husband and I just went home. I should wait until tomorrow for a specialist to check on my condition. I was examined and given some instructions to follow. My whole body needed to be moisturized. Oatmeal oil, otmeal soap and oatmeal lotion, clobetasol ointment and cream were some of the products already available for sale courtesy of the Derma Skin Clinic. I was relieved and the treatment was effective. Thank GOD!!!

I was able to surpass these awful situations with the great help and support of my family. These horrible events in my life made me a stronger person. Prayers are my weapon to defeat the circumstances I faced. I just cried out my pains to the one and only GOD.

i know it's been a while

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 06:27:00 +0000

I have been on a roller coaster ride
overcoming and dealing with
the distasteful circumstances
of my first trimester.
I could hardly take long exposure
in front of our computer.
I'm having headaches,
stomach distress and some
other physical anxieties.
I know, these will pass.
I will certainly get over the
effects of hormonal changes
happening inside me...
maybe sooner or later.

Please bear with me.
Once I get back on my feet again,
I have lots of interesting entries to share
and more exciting stories to tell.

'JUST TAKING A BREAK

pay it forward

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 11:16:00 +0000

Trevor McKinney (Haley Joel Osment), is a 12-year old student who has thought of an idea that would change not only his own life but the lives of many people.

He believes that doing a favor to others is not paying it back but paying it forward... doing good deeds to three new people will truly make a difference.

A simple idea of a young boy that makes a great impact to many and profoundly affect one's human nature. His determination to change the world for the better comes in exchange with his life.

Help others but never expect something in return. When others do good to you, don't pay back but "Pay it Forward" ...

treat for two

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 02:46:00 +0000

We celebrated two occasions: Aya's 13th birthday and Kuya Bong's homecoming. After we had a wonderful snack at Summer Homes, we drove to Riverbanks for another round of food-tripping on an outdoor "dampa-style kainan". It's Ate Alice's treat.

The area is roofed but the sides are open. The stalls where the food is cooked are on the side and the dining tables are situated at the center. An ample area is allotted for parking. There are mini huts with videoke machines for music lovers.

First, we ordered at "Simply Ilonggo" but we waited long enough and the foods were not served yet. The waitresses seemed to ignore follow ups so, to avoid unpleasant words come out from anybody's mouth, we just decided to look for another eatery. Pye, Kuya Bong and Ate Alice landed at "Everybody's Grill"

These shots were taken using Pye's mobile phone. Unfortunately, someone has left her digicam so there's only few photos to upload but just the same, the dinner was a thumbs up. I felt no dizziness and discomfort maybe because of the Vitamin B complex I took after lunch.

We had pork and chicken barbecue, grilled squid, sinigang na ulo ng maya-maya, inihaw na tilapia, grilled tuna and ensaladang mangga. Minute Maid Pulpy Orange for our beverage.

Our first chosen table with the pink top cover
obviously without the food yet

The table where we transferred with yellow top cover
NO FOOD pa rin???

We all had fun eating and chatting that we ignored the smoky atmosphere that seemingly stinked into our body. Hmmmmm... we smelled like barbecue!

Then it's time to get everybody home. We arrived at Pasig around 10pm and I hurriedly prepared the hot water for us to take quick shower. I thought I was ok but suddenly, before getting through with my brief bath, I disgorged every content in my stomach.

an empty sac yet

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 04:52:00 +0000

Lying down on a bed other than our bed makes me feel quite uncomfortable more so using a clinic blanket to cover my body. Quite loathsome but I have no choice. I was advised to undress from waist down, lie on the bed with my knees bent and legs apart then cover my lower extremities with a green blanket. A female doctor attended to me. She was holding a tubular device or probe called a transducer and put an adequate amount of lubricant or gel then slowly inserted into my vaginal canal. The procedure is TVS or transvaginal sonogram. The tubular probe sent out sound waves and a computer received the waves then an image was created being seen on a monitor. Measurements were being noted. The result is:

IMPRESSION
Early intrauterine pregnancy about 7 weeks and 2 days by GS diameter
There is a yolk sac seen with no evidence of fetal pole
Suggest follow-up after 2 weeks for embryonic assessment

The test was painless. Actually I had gone through this kind of procedure more than five times already although I felt some mild discomfort from the pressure of the probe. After getting the result, Pye and I headed to Dra. Piramide, who was holding her clinic hours on the second floor of the Alfonso building. She examined the results of the ultrasound and told us that we have to wait for another 2 weeks to confirm if there's really a baby inside me or yet, a possible blighted ovum.

I have mixed emotions upon hearing this news but we have to be patient and optimistic. Everything will turn out just fine. Things happen for a reason.

happy birthday AYA!

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 03:08:00 +0000

This is the day

when I brought an angel to the world.
She's my daughter AYA.
Now that she turned thirteen,
She has grown a young lady.
Some eyes are spotting at her looks
I can't bear to accept the truth
that one day...
this princess of mine
will be adored by a prince.

I have only the BEST wishes for you and may these wishes come true.

I LOVE YOU

my

AYA

talk to me

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 02:37:00 +0000

Let your presence inside me
say
that you're safe and sound.
Is there a little life growing
or a tie of bond

deep within?

This unpleasant sensitivities
leave no aching
signs.
Just rest quietly at my tummy
We'll be one in due time.

holding back love

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 08:26:00 +0000

I was home alone yesterday. Pye was on duty, the kids watched Madagascar 2 with their Tita Malu while our house help, Bebeth was at SSS updating her payment contributions. I have nothing else to do but stay home. After spending few hours blogging and chatting with some friends at YM, I watched a replay of "Shopgirl" featured in Third Row at 2nd Avenue.

PLOT SYNOPSIS
by: Wikipedia

Mirabelle Buttersfield, a transplanted Vermonter, is an aspiring artist and saleswoman at the evening gloves counter at Saks Fifth Avenue in Beverly Hills. Her quiet, orderly existence - filled with both the mundane (futon furniture and an aging pickup truck) and the serious (a large student loan and a supply of antidepressants) - is disrupted by the sudden appearance of two disparate men. Ray Porter is a considerably older, suave, well-dressed, wealthy, divorced logician, while Jeremy is an immature, awkward, socially inept, penniless twentysomething graphic designer for an amplifier manufacturer and aspiring typographer. Ray tells Mirabelle upfront that he does not intend for their relationship to be exclusive. Despite this lack of committment, she finds herself swept off her feet. The situation is further clouded when Jeremy falls madly in love with her; although she finds him considerably less desirable than his older rival, he is willing to offer her the promise of exclusivity.

Mirabelle and Ray embark on a lengthy affair, during which time Jeremy is working as a roadie for the band Hot Tears, whose lead singer Luther encourages him to improve himself and learn how to properly deal with the opposite sex via a number of self-help audio tapes. Mirabelle is devoted to Ray, who showers her with affection and expensive gifts. During a business trip, he has dinner with an old girlfriend and sleeps with her. Mirabelle is crushed when he confesses to his indiscretion.

She eventually forgives him, and they continue to date until Mirabelle finally admits to herself their relationship never will have the permanence she wants because Ray cannot love her. She leaves Ray, quits her job at Saks, and becomes a receptionist at an art gallery. Jeremy reenters her life and they rekindle their relationship while Mirabelle is invited to display her work at an exhibiton. Ray attends, and although aware that their relationship is over, reveals that he has come to realize that he did love her. For his flaws, Mirabelle is happy with Jeremy who is able to offer himself to her unconditionally.

I know of someone who can relate to this story yet I preferred to keep her identity for some reasons. Holding back love for a person is never a fair game. If you love someone, you have to show it and express the feelings in any way you desire or for whatever it takes. It can never be questioned but can be answered... by simply doing what your heart dictates.

heaven welcomes another angel

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 03:39:00 +0000

I was browsing in the internet and I came across a site which I thought was the right one to give me information about the meaning of flowers. I planned to write a blog presenting a variety of flowers and their meanings and so I clicked the 6th link on the list: The Meaning of Flowers/A Filipina Mom Blogger and "Oh My God!" I never expected that I would stay for, not just a while but I spent hours watching the videos and reading some of the author's posts. I was teary-eyed and emotional upon learning that the site I've accidentally gone through will touch my heart and spirit.

Her story started with a deep mourning... a struggle for strength to overcome pain... a journey of grief and sorrow and her survival from the most unbearable loss of a beloved son.

Luijoe at the zoo

Last photo of Luijoe before he died

The swimming pool where he met his final destination

His resting place at Loyola Memorial Park

Ms. Noemi Lardizabal-Dado said in her blog entitled: Touched by An Angel

"I still remember that last day, May 27, 2000 in our hotel room at Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort . It was right after we had breakfast getting ready for our glass-bottom boat ride. The video of “Be with you” by Enrique Iglesias was blaring on TV. Luijoe’s sisters shrieked ewwww mom except Luijoe and myself. They chided me for being so cheesy but Luijoe sat beside me and said you like that mama and I said yes. He said I like it too. Then we both watched it together.

That song is meant to be a love song but I can’t help thinking about the lyrics because it was the last song we listened together. The lyrics spoke so much of my indescribable grief and so, hearing the song always teared me to bits.

"And now that you’re gone,
I just wanna be with you.
(Be with you)
And I can’t go on, I wanna be with you.
(Be with you)
Wanna be with you."

Miserable, depressed and inconsolable. Today, it’s different. The pain is not as searing as it once was.

In memory of Luijoe’s 8th death anniversary, I compiled the photos of Luijoe’s last few hours at Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort with “Be With You” as the background music."

I can hardly imagine how difficult it was for her to cope with her son's early demise. The tragedy that struck her family more than eight years back has been a haunting nightmare but she is able to let go of the negative memories of that fateful day and still trying to heal the wounds it has caused.

Because of this experience, Noemi gained sympathy not only from Kababayans in the Philippines but touched many people's lives through out the world. She even appeared in some TV programs like: MomWorks, Proudly Filipina, Kapuso Mo-Jessica Soho and Ali's talk show sharing her family's terrible ordeal.

She was even awarded the Best Website, Blog Category in the 9th Philippine Web Awards on December 7, 2006 and more awards in her name.

Another angel has flown to heaven
with a ready heart so young.
He lived a life too short
but left a long lasting mark.
He now rested far above the skies
looking down and waiting
for
his beloved ones to reunite
in the hands of GOD.

what about

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 04:12:00 +0000

Everyday for me now is like I'm in a "twilight zone" and I can hardly decide what food to eat or what odor really makes me lose my appetite. I have morning sickness and my stomach feels like empty but full. Once I get up in bed, I sense something bubbling inside my belly and it causes me to throw up. I'm always like this. During my first trimester, I took leave of absence from office just to have a complete rest and now that I'm free from any employer and my boss now is of course, willing and able to take control of everything. He's so excited with the coming baby as much as our two kids.

Chocolate Mousse
A bed of rich chocolate pound cake, topped with delicious cream-based mousse and chocolate chips for a treat like no other.

Well, I craved for a "chocolate mousse" from Red Ribbon and my sister Mahlen ordered one through their hotline for a free delivery. It took almost an hour for the cake to arrive because Pasig Branch runout of stock of choco mousse so they waited for the stocks to come. As soon as the cake has reached my Mom's house, Mahlen sliced it and I got one for myself. I finished it off but afterwards, I found myself vomiting in my Mom's comfort room.

Why did I vomit after eating my most desired food? Well, these somehow explain it all:

The vomiting is caused by a combination of chemical changes my body is going through
My rapidly increasing estrogen and progesterone levels
Enhanced sense of smell and stomach acids
Builup of HCG. It is produced after implantation takes place and continues to increase until about the 12th week of pregnancy, at which point the levels of HCG starts to decrease, this is when morning sickness symptoms will start to decrease as well.

I may be experiencing these more intensely for the following days or weeks. But I know I can handle these changes as much as I got through with the anxieties during my previous conceptions.

seeing with our hearts open

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 03:34:00 +0000

We look at life as simple
yet complicated.
We seek peace and solitude
yet something is there to hinder.
We love and cherish memories
yet tears are running down our face.

We laugh and smile for joy
yet sadness comes without a hint.
We travel a long road to freedom
yet fences are hidden beneath.
We strive to reach the star
yet never bother to take a step.

We try to be the best person
yet somebody will never appreciate.
We give hope not despair
yet misery and anguish reign.
We search for truth and certainty
yet pretension lies everywhere.

We learn new things and ideas
yet life has more to offer.
We rely on facts and essentials
yet instincts go between.
We rescue ourselves from drowning
yet surviving is the game.

We contradict to one's disposition
yet falsify our own views.
We agree more on transformation
yet change is constant and imperfect.
We risk something valuable
yet redeem our spirits later.

We commit offensive allegations
yet direct justice to few.
We resolve problems accordingly
yet nuisance keeps coming back.
We may not comprehend every life there exist
yet learning is an eternal process.

Perceiving the true beauty of the world,
is seeing it with our hearts open.

smoking during pregnancy

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 02:47:00 +0000

Addiction to smoking seems a struggle to most women who have been smokers since their teen years and cannot avoid doing the habit even to sacrifice life of their unborn child. I was shocked upon watching an episode in "The Tyra Show" about women who can hardly quit smoking and even turn their backs on drugs while they are pregnant.

This couple actually admitted that they both cigarette dependents and their struggle against the addiction should bring them to a unified decision to stop and put an end to their bad vice. The husband honestly told that he would leave 2-3 sticks of cigarette for her wife without knowing that her wife sneaks for at least a pack a day. She said while she puffs a cigarette, she can actually feel that the baby moves trying to tell her mother that she's hurting him.

Smoking during pregnancy can put the mother and the unborn baby at risk. The complications associated by smoking are;

Lower the amount of oxygen the baby gets
Increase the baby's heart rate
Increase the chances of miscarriage and stillbirth
Increase the chances of pre-mature birth and/or low birth weight
Raise the baby's risk of developing lung problems
It may cause damage on baby's genes
Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy
It can cause severe vaginal bleeding

How can a mother take these risks when she can do something to prevent these from happening? The addiction is painful to fight back but what is more hurtful than facing the damaging realities it can cause to an innocent life who is defenseless.

QUIT NOW! SAVE YOUR BABY!

no amvasc for the meantime

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 03:20:00 +0000

It's almost a week now since I stop taking my maintenance drug because of my present condition so I decided to visit Dr. Santos for a check up. Fortunately, my blood pressure was normal: 117 over 75. He told me that there's no need for me to continue with Amvasc. I just have to monitor my BP and be cautious with my diet.

Dr. Ronald Santos is a long time friend and classmate back at grade school and high school. When he became full-pledged Cardiologist, my family and most of my relatives have become his regular clients. A lot of our teachers had been his patients as well. Thumbs up for him. He really excels in his chosen field. Truly a proud Rizalian.

After a brief talk and some advice, the visit was concluded with a thoughtful reminder:

"Take care of that baby."

I will definitely do. Pye and I wish to have him as one of the godparents and he's more than just willing to be one.

looking through the eyes

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 06:56:00 +0000

I received an email from my sister Malu and I am so inspired by the story of a blind boy sitting on the steps of a building with a hat by his feet with a sign beside it saying: "I am blind, please help."

You will notice a man who approached the boy and took few coins from his pocket and dropped them into the hat. He then took the sign, turned it around and wrote some words. He put the sign back so that everyone passing by that area would see and read the new words.

Because of the new sign, the hat begun to fill up. More and more people were giving money to the blind boy. That afternoon, the man came back to see how things were. The boy recognized his footsteps and asked him if he's the one who changed the sign and what did he write. Then the man replied:

"I only wrote the truth. I said what you said but on a different way."

What he had written was: Today is a beautiful day and I cannot see it.

It was clear to us that the two signs were telling the people that the boy is blind. The only difference is that the second sign implied that people who are not blind are so lucky that they can see the beauty of the day. That people often times need a much deeper meaning to some issues before they can be affected. Words are powerful to convey the truth so everybody should use words as creative and as meaningful.

The story tells us that we are fortunate enough to have eyes to see the magical things around us. We have to appreciate every blessing we have whether it may be small or big. We should be optimistic in life that if it gives us 100 reasons to cry, show life that we have 1000 and more reasons to smile. We should not be afraid to face obstacles. Let strength rule our spirit and take us to brighter days ahead. Stop complaining for things but start doing something that make a lot of difference.

What is more fulfilling than seeing someone smile and more beautiful than knowing that we are the reason why...

more than just a music player

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 02:48:00 +0000

More and more people are aware of the health hazards accompanied by exposure to loud music like playing personal MP3 players at maximum level. The risk is of course, vulnerability to music-induced hearing loss. A study reveals that listening to loud music through earphones at least an hour a day consistently for a period of 5 years can cause permanent ear damage.

Although listening to music has been a great pleasure to many yet they seem to disregard the realities of inflicting damage to their health. If young people keep using their Ipods or personal music players for longer time and at high volume levels, they can develop a condition called "tinnitus" which involves hearing a ringing sound inside the ear.

Manufacturers of these gadgets should consider such negative effects to customer and make them aware of the dangers by printing clear warnings on packaging and linking volume controls to decibel levels. While the end users should do their part of protecting themselves from the risk.

first visit to OB for confirmation

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 04:29:00 +0000

According to Dra. Piramide, my Ob-Gyne at Alfonso Clinic, I may have underestimate my fertility period. The same thing happened to her and there's a great possibility that it may happen to me as well. I have high-risk pregnancy and being hypertensive may cause a lot of complications. Her initial prescription:

1 dose of Folic Acid per day
and
Duphaston tablet 3 times a day

She Also gave me request for TVS or Transvaginal ultrasound and Urinalysis on November 14 to
determine the age of the fertilized ovum. This will further confirm its viability.

wrong mistake

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 03:15:00 +0000

I should have memorized this method... I should have known better now,,, It's been eight long years since we started this natural way of controlling our family. We're almost complete, we have a daughter and a son, AYA and KD. Although my husband and I actually talked about plans of having another angel in the family, we're still having second thoughts of going through that same stage again. But I believe that there's a reason why things happen beyond our expectation.

I am waiting for my monthly period to come but unfortunately, it did not. Where did I go wrong? Maybe, I gave in so early but I have counted it right. It's my safe day. I had my first flow last September 23 so, my infertile period would be October 12 to probably 19 until my next period comes.

Number 1 in red indicates my first day which is September 23

October 20 came... then 21, 22, 23... and my most awaited never arrive. I decided to do self-test and this result is what I got:

No doubt, the two lines mean that I am positive of HCG or Human Chorionic Gonadotropin. I already have in my belly, our third baby in the making.

KD's chess workout

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 05:10:00 +0000

Kurt has been a great chess enthusiast and his overwhelming fondness with the sport encouraged him to join a 3-day training from October 27-29 at LICS' (La Immaculada Concepcion School) chess room. It was also their one week school break in commemoration with "All Saint's Day" or "Halloween" as popularly known.

I fetched him to and from school as he personally requested so the school service was not necessary and it's a perfect bonding moment for Mye and KD.

The training took 4 hours a day from 12nn to 4pm. For three days, he wanted only "Dunkin Donuts" for snack; 2 Choco Sprinkle donuts, Choco Icy Cooler on the first day, Grape on the second day and Iced Coffee on the third day. I just watched him satisfy his hunger after few hours of mind-boggling checkerboard game. The game I never learn to play.

He got 1 win, 1 loss and 1 draw. Now, he's ready to fight for opponents willing to checkmate his King and who else is willing but his Papa whom he almost defeated. The game was a draw.

going generics

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 05:02:00 +0000

My husband and I are now on maintenance medications. I, being hypertensive take a dose of Amlodipine Besylate, 10mg daily while Pye takes 4 drugs a day: Simvastatin tablet 20g, Losartan 50mg, Metformin 500g and Fenofibrate 250mg. Unfortunately, he's being diagnosed with high blood pressure, high cholesterol and mild diabetes. We spent much for these drugs and nothing we can do but to find alternative means to cost-cut our expenses without compromising our need to keep those maintenace medicines.

Thanks to The Generics Pharmacy which is presently penetrating the Philippine market today. We are so aware of generic drugs but we are still patrons of branded products until we come to the realization that we can actually get high quality yet affordable drugs in the market. And this type of drugstore has never been well-known. A Filipino entrepreneur started to see the viability of pharmaceutical products to gain popularity specifically, operating generic retail pharmacy.

What is a generic medicine?

It is identical or bioequivalent to a brand name drug in dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics and intended use. Although it's produced and distributed without patent protection, it should be manufactured under the same strict standards.

Difference between generic and branded:

Generics are not protected by patents unlike the branded ones
Generics are cheaper because the manufacturers have not had the expenses of developing, marketing and promoting the drugs

Misconceptions about generic drugs:

Generic drugs are manufactured in poorer-quality facilities
Inferior in quality compared to brand-name drugs
Generic drugs take longer to work

The fact is; all drugs are safe and effective. May it be generic or branded for as long as they meet the requirements and approval of the Food and Drug Administration. It is in our own discretion whether to buy generic or branded. It's our choice.

effects of plastics: eRUMOR?

marribermudez@yahoo.com (marri) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 01:32:00 +0000

Cancer Update from Johns Hopkins

NO PLASTIC CONTAINERS IN MICROWAVE
EVEN THOUGH THEY STATE MICROWAVE SAFE
Don't Use Plastic for Heating Foods in a Microwave Oven Because of Exposure to Dioxins-Fiction! & Unproven!

NO WATER BOTTLES IN THE FREEZER
Heated Bottles of Water Are Dangerous and Caused Sheryl Crow's Cancer-
Fiction!

NO PLASTIC WRAP IN MICROWAVE

Truth or Fiction.com has not been able to find any research that supports the fear that food can become contaminated with dioxins either from plastic wrap or plastic in microwave ovens.

A dioxin chemical causes cancer, especially breast cancer. Dioxins are highly poisonous to the cells of our bodies. Don't freeze your plastic bottles with water in them as this releases dioxins from the plastic.

Recently, Edward Fujimoto, Wellness Program Manager at Castle Hospital, was on a TV program to explain this health hazard. He talked about dioxins and how bad they are for us. He said that we should not be heating our food in the microwave using plastic containers. This especially applies to foods that contain fat. He said that the combination of fat, high heat, and plastics releases dioxin into the food and ultimately into the cells of the body. Instead, he recommends using glass, such as Corning Ware, Pyrex, or ceramic containers for heating food. You get the same results, only without the dioxin.

Such things as TV dinners, instant ramen and soups, etc., should be removed from the container and heated in something else. He reminded us that a while ago some of the fast food restaurants moved away from the foam containers to paper. The dioxin problem is one of the reasons. Also, he pointed out that the plastic wrap, such as Saran, is just as dangerous when placed over foods to be cooked in the microwave. As the food is nuked, the high heat causes poisonous toxins to actually melt out of the plastic wrap and drip into the food. Cover food with a paper towel instead. This article should be mentioned to anyone important in your life.

What is your reaction to this article? Is it really a FACT or FICTION?