Christmas at the office

Facebook is such a great tool, don't you think? For the past couple of days I've been busy looking at my friends' Christmas party photos at the office. I'm not saying I regret being a stay-at-home mom but their pictures look like they're having so much fun.

I remember when I used to work, it was usually this time that I get a headache thinking of what to give my friends and my staff. Usually people give mugs or paper weights, I get a lot of those sometimes I have no idea what to do with them. I bring most of them home and use them for decoration or I change my mugs for a different feel.

As I was searching the internet for gift items, I had an awesome idea. I could gift them these beautiful badge lanyards or a personalized ID lanyard! Whenever I go out with my family, I'd see these employees with really cute lanyards that sometimes look like funky necklaces. During my time, we didn't have the "funk" yet. We just used a plain old looking string of cloth with the company's name and logo.

I didn't see those anymore in my friends' photos. I guess a lot has really changed since I left, after all, it's been 3 years. I just love looking at how they are and how my friends have grown, especially those that used to work for me. Some of them are even Managers now. Some even send me messages, up to now thanking me of what I've taught them when I was still working and how they're able to use it to their advantage.

It's nice to know I've helped some people. It's even nicer to know that it's appreciated. When we still worked together, when somebody said Thank You for my help, I took it for granted. Now that I see them from afar, it means a whole lot of difference. I see that I've changed lives.

Christmas is not only a time for sharing, it's also a time for thanksgiving. After all, if it wasn't for the birth of Jesus, we wouldn't be celebrating at all. So, Thank You Jesus. Thank You too for all those who said Thank You to me. You don't know how much it means to me now.

I don't need to be in an office, with a large group of people to feel the spirit of Christmas. This works perfectly too, Christmas at home, reading Thank You messages from friends.

How about you, did you have a great Christmas at the office? Or are you like me, enjoying the peace and tranquility of home with your loved ones, offline and online.






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Addiction to a new TV Channel... maybe?

We had 2 straight days of cramped activities. We're out the door as soon as Litty Missy wakes up and we come home late, the first day I think was as late as 12mn.

Yesterday however, as soon as we got home, Little Missy said she was hungry so we fed her dinner, then about an hour after, she said she wanted to start sleeping. It was early, it was unusual for her but maybe the toll of the 2 long days were creeping up on her.

As soon as she was asleep, I felt lost. I usually sleep with her but that time I wasn't sleepy yet. After months or maybe years of me not watching TV, I gave in and opened it last night. I was flipping through channels and was surprised we now had AXN Beyond. When I was pregnant and during my little girl's first year, I looooooove watching shows from AXN. I think this is one channel I just may be addicted to again.

More about AXN Beyond:

Super Tuesdays on the All NEW &
Exciting AXN Beyond

Tonight, get set to be blown away by the latest drama and entertainment shows on an all new, all awesome AXN Beyond channel. More than ever, viewers from the Philippines will enjoy a fresh and unrivalled programming line-up Tuesday nights across a newly-expanded spectrum of genres, as AXN Beyond refreshes to redefine the entertainment experience like no other.

Turning into a ‘super-sized’ channel, AXN Beyond will serve up more monthly premieres from many more genres than before. Taking the definition of ‘entertainment’ to the limit, AXN Beyond will go beyond fun, feisty and fabulous with its variety of shows. These range from mystery and suspense, fantasy and science-fiction, paranormal and supernatural, fashion and design, to lifestyle and romance, across drama, variety, reality, sitcom, comedy, talk shows, movies and even music concerts.

Said Voo Chih Yeong, Head of AXN Beyond, “Viewers need to look no further than AXN Beyond for the latest shows across the variety of genres, as our channel will have something for just about everyone at a single destination. With a far more compelling entertainment experience, AXN Beyond now appeals to an even wider audience than before. Viewers who have come to enjoy the great programs on AXN will definitely love and appreciate the same world-class quality in the fresh content selection on the all new AXN Beyond.”

Indeed, AXN Beyond hails from the same team that brought Asia its top English general entertainment channel, AXN. As a fresh, hip and energetic TV destination, the new AXN Beyond draws audiences across a wide range of demographics seeking new and exciting entertainment choices, and has its sweet spot among male and female viewers aged 18 – 35.

Beyond fun on AXN Beyond’s Super Tuesdays

AXN Beyond viewers are set to enjoy a back-to-back series of the channel’s very latest shows on Super Tuesday evenings not-to-be-missed. The fun begins with reality talk show The Marriage Ref, as celebrities such as Madonna, Demi Moore and Gwyneth Paltrow pass judgement on real-life couples’ marriages.

That leads to light-hearted series like Drop Dead Diva Season 2 which continues the life of shallow model Deb (Brooke Elliott) whose soul ends up in the body of a brilliant, plus-size attorney. The night’s fun culminates in AXN Beyond’s headliner of the month – fresh new legal comedic drama The Defenders which stars Jim Belushi (According to Jim) and Jerry O’Connell (Sliders) as colourful Las Vegas defence attorneys.

With all that and more, viewers will surely adore the all-new, all awesome entertainment experience with the latest shows across the greatest variety of genres, unveiling this December on the fresh, hip and super-sized AXN Beyond. Check out some of these shows airing tonight:

The Marriage Ref
Tuesdays, 8:10pm, first and exclusively on AXN Beyond


Click picture to enlarge
Jerry Seinfeld is back and in the producer's chair for a funny and revealing comedy panel series The Marriage Ref, about the unpredictable and hilarious institution commonly known as marriage. In The Marriage Ref, disputes between real-life couples are revealed, examined - and ultimately judged.

For the first time, audiences will be able to look at these fights, analyze them and declare a winner. At the centre of the action and making "the call", is popular comedian Tom Papa (The Informant!) who will have the final say in determining the victor of each spat.

Advising and influencing the Ref's decision will be a rotating panel of ‘experts’ comprising top celebrities, comedians and sports stars who will weigh in and offer their own wit, wisdom and unique opinions. Guest stars featuring through the series include Tina Fey, Eva Longoria Parker, Larry David, Ricky Gervais, Madonna, Martha Stewart, Sheryl Crow, Tracy Morgan, Gloria Estefan, Donald Trump and Gwyneth Paltrow.

Drop Dead Diva Season 2
Tuesdays 9pm on AXN Beyond


Click picture to enlarge
Returning for a second season, comedic drama Drop Dead Diva continues the story of a shallow wannabe model that dies in a sudden accident, only to find her soul resurfacing in the body of a brilliant, plus-size and recently deceased attorney, Jane.

At the close of last season, Deb was ready to let go of her past and embrace her new life as Jane. But the unexpected arrival of Jane’s “secret” husband, Ethan (Devon Gummersall), at her doorstep left her with more questions than ever. To make matters worse, Jane may be disbarred after breaching client-attorney confidentiality when, against the firm’s advisement, she reported her client for fraud. Faced with a new love triangle and the uncertainty of her career, Jane must, once again, chart out a new future for herself…

The 13-episode second season of Drop Dead Diva features breakout star Brooke Elliott (Wicked, Taboo”), Margaret Cho (Ghost Whisperer, Notorious C.H.O.), Jackson Hurst (The Tree of Life), Kate Levering (Cashmere Mafia), April Bowlby (Two and a Half Men), Josh Stamberg (Lie to Me) and Ben Feldman (The Perfect Man).The Season 2 opener of Drop Dead Diva will feature entertainer Paula Abdul (American Idol) reprising her role as Judge Paula Abdul, a figment of Jane’s subconscious. Devon Gummersall (“My So-Called Life”) and David Denman (“The Office”) return as guest stars this season.


The Defenders
Tuesdays 9.50pm first and exclusively on AXN Beyond


Click picture to enlarge
The Defenders is a comedic drama about two colourful Las Vegas defence attorneys who go all-in when it comes to representing their clients. Nick (Jim Belushi, According to Jim) and Pete (Jerry O’Çonnell, Sliders, Crossing Jordan) are the local go-to guys with an eclectic client list who are still looking to hit their own jackpot.
Leading the law firm of Morelli & Kaczmarek are Nick Morelli, an earnest, hard-charging attorney who represents his clients to the best of his ability, no matter how big or small the case; and his partner, Pete Kaczmarek, whose passion for the law is matched only by his love of fast cars, beautiful women and expensive clothes.
Joining them in their growing law practice is new associate Lisa Tyler (Jurnee Smollett, The Great Debaters), an enthusiastic young attorney looking to put her exotic dancing days behind her; and their young assistant, Sophie (Tanya Fischer, Life On Mars), a spunky and sweet ingénue who is eager to please her bosses.

How about you, have you experienced AXN Beyond before? Think you may be addicted to this new TV channel too? Can't wait for next Tuesday to watch these shows.

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Fun day at Fun Ranch!

If you haven't read my previous post, The Bad, The Love and The Fun, this post will detail our super fun day at Fun Ranch.

Last Saturday, December 11th, we were invited to attend the ATD and Mommy Bloggers Event at Fun Ranch. We actually arrived late and missed the program but the event was for the children of The Good Foundation. The hosts were very gracious to provide a scrumptious buffet for the children as well as for the Mommy and DAddy bloggers and their child/ren. Aside from food, we were also given an Unlimited or Ride-all-you-can pass for the day to enjoy with our family and the children of the orphanage. What's best is we were also handed loot bags with assorted goodies, yum yum!

Photos above courtesy of Jen of Jen's Joyful Life
We had so much fun during this event that as early as now, we're considering Fun Ranch to be the venue of my little Girl's birthday party in September, if God-willing. You can read the quote below why we're considering it as a birthday venue then check out our photos to see how much fun we had!

FUN RANCH DELIVERS THE BEST PARTY EXPERIENCE

A barnyard filled with people happily singing the birthday song. A huge inflatable playground filled with children jumping up and down. A birthday celebrant wearing sports jacket racing with his best pals on a mini-go-kart track. Kids playing and riding all they want. These are some of the many things children enjoy in a Fun Ranch party.

Fun Ranch is all about having fun in a kid-friendly environment. It has function rooms that meet the needs of every creative parent looking for a unique and special party for their children from a small group of 20 to a grand celebration with 520 guests. The Big Red Barn is a barnyard in the middle of the complex. The Blue Whale Grill, on the other hand, has an aquatic theme with a working lighthouse, Leaps and Bounds inflatable playground which can be exclusively used for a minimal amount; floating huts, a pond where kids can feed the fishes and Bumper Boats for a more stimulating party experience.

Fathers and sons will surely have a blast partying at Go! Speed Racing complemented with racer amenities such as personalized invitations, Champion banner and exclusive use of the mini-go-kart track for all the guests. The gutterless Duckpin bowling, Mini-Golf and Tea Cup Ride at Family Fun Zone guarantee intimate and exciting get togethers full of bonding time for both kids and kids at heart. Similarly, parties at our indoor playgrounds set a venue for learning through play with its huge signature slides and other cool activities for children.

Big or small, Fun Ranch caters to anything you want to celebrate. Aside from birthdays, corporate parties, graduation and reunions have found their way to Fun Ranch. So, for a hassle free party, come to Fun Ranch because kids rule here!

Fun Ranch is open everyday. For inquiries you may call 396-5290 or 706-3019. Visit our website at www.funranch.com.ph or for more information about this topic, please contact Ana May P. del Rosario by calling 706-3029, or e-mail Ana May del Rosario at arose41506@yahoo.com

Little Missy's first time to see a Ferris Wheel


First time to ride a Ferris Wheel and she wasn't scared of heights!


View of the Carousel from the top of the Ferris Wheel


Queueing


We read about stars while waiting for our turn on the Carousel. The people were amazed she could read on her own :)


Enjoying the ride


We rode the purple airplane (Red Baron)


Weeeee


Little Missy's first Bumper Cars experience. She wanted to drive and was looking for the horn.


My future golfer? Like mommy like baby?


Train ride with Daddy. Chuggachugga Choo Choo!


Lovin' the ride


She wanted to ride this too but I know she can't take it. Maybe next year.


She absolutely loved the hanging bridge. Good sense of balance.

Let me know when you're visiting Fun Ranch... maybe we'll be there too :) Happy weekend!

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The Bad, The Love, and The Fun

This post is actually about our adventures last Saturday. I forgot to share all about it because I've been fighting with an adware virus (tracker) in my computer for days. Anywho, it's gone now so I feel safe opening up my files again.

The Bad -
Let's start with Friday night. Daddy usually comes home late every Friday because he has to participate in a global call. Friday nights in the PH seems to be the perfect time for all the other countries to join in. Aside from coming home late, hubby called to say he felt the car was overheating. He had to stop at all the gas stations along the way to have the radiator cooled down. He knew something else was wrong because he wasn't actually losing water, the engine just kept heating up.

So he got home around 1am and we both decided that he'll take the car to the car shop early next morning. Why early next morning? Because I was invited to attend my a blogger event at Fun Ranch in Tiendesitas.

Next day came and took the car to the shop. We estimated that maybe it'll take around 3 hours to fix, giving us enough time to attend the event, or maybe even a little bit late. Imagine my surprise when hubby said it'll take 2 weeks to fix the car. There wasn't wrong with the radiator or belts, it was the engine itself.

The Love -
Powerless (and carless), I just told hubby that I'd just cancel. I think he could hear from my voice that it was important to me. He said he was really, really sorry but I knew it wasn't his fault. Our car, Queenie, is 18 years old. She had a right to break down once in awhile.

After 10 minutes, hubby said we're still going. He'll take care of everything to make sure I get to attend the event, even though we're late. After preparing Little Missy, hubby arrived in a taxi. He showered, got our things and made a phone call. Another 10 minutes and another taxi came. He said no matter what, we're going.

The taxi ride wasn't fun. It was Little Missy's first time in a public transport and sad to say she vomited due to byahilo or motion sickness. Throughout the trip I was looking at her to see how she is so she really didn't make a mess. I was prepared for it. We had to stop when she vomited though because she was very fussy. It was the first time I saw her that helpless. When it was all over, she just leaned on me and slowly fell asleep.

We managed to arrive at Fun Ranch but were super duper late. Mommy Lace and the other mommy bloggers weren't even there anymore but Mommy Lace made sure I had my loots, PR kit and ticket when we got there. I told her not to anymore because I was really embarrassed that we arrived so late but I promised her, and my little Missy that we will go no matter what.

I love Daddy for this, for all his effort to make everything materialize. He knew how it was important for me and he made it possible.

More pics, stories and info on our day at Fun Ranch in my next post or click HERE.

The Fun -

As soon as we got to Fun Ranch, we looked for Tita Anna. When she handed us our passes, nothing can stop Little Missy from doing everything and everything. We rode the rides, had fun at the Fun Family Zone and played around. My little girl especially loved that area in the middle with letters that had animal information on them. She read them again and again.

(For more of our Fun Ranch adventure, click HERE)

After Fun Ranch, we had to attend a birthday cum Christmas Party. It was Ate Yosha's 3rd birthday party and as it was a gathering of moms who used to be members of the Baby Central site, it was also our EB/Christmas Party.

We arrived late too but thankfully, Tita Wheng waited for us before she started raffling off some prizes and the exchange of gifts.

What a day. With the bad, the love, and the fun, I couldn't ask for more.

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Snow? In a tropical island?

I know... it's just wishful thinking.

It's just so intriguing that most of my US friends are now experiencing snow, some even have snow storms. Mild snow seems so fun. Me and my little girl can run around, do snow angels (she does them on the bed) and throw snow balls.

Most of my friends have pictures in snow by now and I've even seen some of their vehicles with tire chains. I actually asked them about it because it seemed weird at first but they said it was for additional traction. The tire chains keep their vehicles from slipping and skidding on the snow. I guess I'll never need to buy tire chains since I live in a tropical country.

I do hope we get to experience snow in this lifetime. I love the thought a family first time experience. We do have some seasonal shows or attractions here in the country where you can get to touch, feel, and play with artificial snow. Maybe we can try them out this year. But hopefully next year, we can travel this season to somewhere here in Asia where there's snow. I'm saying in Asia because it's cheaper and therefore easier to achieve.

I guess having snow in a tropical island is out of the question. But wish me luck next year!

How about you? Have you ever experienced snow? Is it as "good" as I think it is?


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Dreaming of my own house

My friend Glenda was so excited to show me pictures of their unit. She had it renovated and wanted to know what I thought about her new house. She first sent me the old pictures through a private message in Facebook. (Yeah I know, facebook. It's the fastest we could use. Ever tried photo sharing and it would be pixelated forever?) The one by one she showed me the new pictures.

I love how she designed her living room. She put a huge mirror on one of her walls which made the room seem bigger. I also love the effect of using pin lights instead one main light in the center of the room. Somehow the pin lights made a softer, calmer effect. I also loved the colors she used on the room, a play of dark brown/black wooden furniture against yellow walls, highlighted by the yellow-toned pin lights and adobe bricks.

The paleness and earthiness of the living room was startling contrast to the shocking red of her kitchen. It's somewhat how I want my kitchen to be too, lots of cabinets instead of things lying around, well maybe except the color. But what I liked most about her kitchen was her oven. For those who know me, you guys now I still don't have an oven... soon though, soon!

So this got me thinking about my dream home. We've almost paid off our lot (yay!) and we're in the planning stage for the house construction. Since I'm no longer working, I'm sure I'll be hands on with it and anticipate seeing lots of power tools and perhaps an annular cutter or a metal hole saw. I know it'll be rough since I have no knowledge of how things go, but since it's my house, my dream home, I'd rather be there to realize that dream that leave it up to the experts. With this dream turning into a reality, I am the only expert.

Thanks Glen for sharing your home. I love it!

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Day out!

Road trip! Such a busy day. A lot of things went on today.

We actually had to get up about an hour early to accommodate everything we had to do today. First we went over to a Bazaar near our place. I was supposed to meet one of my college friends to try out their food and blog about it (separate blog post). I met them at the food area and spent some time chit chatting. Most of the time though Little Missy just tried to amaze them. She showed off her singing skills to the tune of Frosty the Snowman, and also showed off her reading skills. My friends were quite amazed at what she can do at 2.

Anyhow, we got our food and headed off to eat our late lunch. More on the food on another post but I have to say, it was yummmmmy. I didn't even notice the other food stalls around because I was too busy feeding the little girl and sneaking a bite or two from my food. When I was almost done, it was when I noticed the other stores and what they were selling.

I can almost imagine the future. Even in these small, seasonal bazaars, I'm sure we'd find carbon dioxide cylinders for food preservation. Since they are gaseous substances though, I hope we could be modern enough to install those disposable gas cylinders. I'm actually quite worried when I see gas tanks when we travel or in hospitals, or whichever area, even if people tell me that those aren't the flammable or explosive types. Oh well, that's me.

After eating, I met up with another friend in the bazaar too who's selling cute children apparel. I actually envy her passion and dedication in selling. I've done some transactions for her and actually know how she handles inquiries and sales and I don't think I can handle that, not at this time. I wanted to stay and chat but we had to go because hubby had a business appointment. I hope I can come back the next day and stay longer so I can chat with her.

We went to Boni High after and stayed at Starbucks while hubby had his meeting. Of course, with a 2-year old, you can never stay put. It was a good thing that there was some kind of "run" going on and she was entertained by the participants doing their stretches and exercises. She kept clapping and cheering on the participants as they showed off their "agility" skills.

It was fun watching my little girl. Hopefully soon we get to participate in those kinds of activity and keep a healthy lifestyle, or at least for her. When we got to the car, she drank her milk and fell asleep in less than 10 minutes. That's how tired she was. She didn't stay asleep for long though. When we stopped by McDonald's to get a burger for dinner, she was wide awake, asking for a burger too (her burger = chicken nuggets).

What a fun and tiring day. But I'm thankful for these days out since I get to spend them with my family. Just seeing their smiles melt my heart.


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Paranoia kicks in

So yesterday my friend and I were chatting about our plans if one of us wins the lottery, right? After that discussion, we went back to find great shopping deals and I found some that I might just buy into but I'd need to discuss shipping from another friend.

My cousin's girlfriend will be going to the US later this month and I wanted to ask her if she could bring home some of the things I wanted to buy for Little Missy. I was so excited when she said yes, that I forgot to ask her if she had visitor medical insurance
from the company she works for. I'm actually a bit alarmed that talks about aH1N1 are resurfacing and even though she'd do me a huge favor in bringing back my goodies, I wanted to make sure she'd be safe. Also, I never thought to ask her if she had flight cancellation insurance. For me it wouldn't matter much, but for someone who frequently travels, I'm sure that would be a big help for her. I guess it's just my motherly nature. I really get paranoid at times about things that might happen and this is one of them. When paranoia kicks in, my imagination just goes wild with everything that could go wrong. The only thing that distracted me was this 4-letter word flashing on my screen... it read "SALE".

Anyway, now that she said yes, I wonder what would stop me from buying things for us that are not available locally. Ah, I remember, the weight limit. I can only have her bring home around 7kgs of stuff or she'd go over her limit. I'm hoping though, that my shopping spree won't reach 4kgs. I'm not that addicted to online shopping yet, just usually when there are great bargains around.



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Vacation? Hopefully soon.

A friend and I were chatting earlier and we were discussing about the previous Thanksgiving Sale, Black Friday Sale and Cyber Monday Sale in the US. It's amazing what these 3 days can do. There were actually a lot of good bargains on the internet if you've saved up specifically for those 3 days.

While we were chatting, we kept on frequenting sites we'd love to go shopping to, whether online or physically, when we do get the chance. But the most creative idea we had was if one of us won the lottery. My friend said if she won, she'd fly us over to the US and take us to all the places one could ever hope to visit in a lifetime. Of course the first thing I asked if she would treat us to Disneyland and Disney World. I need to make that dream come true, if not for me, at least for my little Missy. I know that's pretty expensive so I asked my friend if she'd gladly cover that. When she said how much she could win in the lottery, she can let us go on even 10 trips to all the Disney Resorts around the world.

We then started researching about travel insurance. For someone who's never left her own country, this seems important to me. In this day and age where prices everywhere are sky high, it's better to be prepared. Since it would be our first time in the US too, hopefully, we also looked into visitors health insurance. We've got great insurance coverage for my family over here but I'm sure when I'm in a foreign land, I'd be paranoid about the smallest and mildest sickness.

Oh well, we'd love to make this dream vacay come true. We just need to win the lottery first!

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My Sister and Hospitals

My sister hates hospitals. Let's just say that she's never had a nice experience with hospitals all her life. I know you only go to hospitals when you're sick and of course it will never be a nice experience, and that's not what I meant. What I meant was that every time she goes to the ER, it takes them more than 2 hours before the initial check-up.

I've tried explaining to her that it's because they prioritize based on the sense of urgency. Of course the more life-threatening symptoms would always be looked at first. I know sometimes it's unreasonable to wait 2 hours, especially if 4 rounds of patients have been checked before you, but if that's the way it is, then that's the way it always will be. I just usually nag them after 2 hours to have tests done already because if they did the first hour, the results would be in by the 2nd hour.

Yesterday afternoon she complained of severe pain in her right abdominal area that extended to her back. She usually tolerates pain well but this one she couldn't take anymore. My other sister called me to let me know so that I can decide on the matter since my mom was out. I called my cousin and asked a favor to drive my sister to the ER. While they were preparing, my other sister and her husband rode the motorcycle to look for my mom. They found her after a couple of minutes, she was walking on her way home from a Church meeting.

My mom and sister got to the hospital around 7:15pm. At 7:30 they had her in a private ER Room (wow, just 15 minutes in the Triage!!) and had already scheduled for CT scans. By 8:00pm she was wheeled in the CT Scan/X-Ray area and was done in minutes, the staff also processed her papers for confinement. By 9pm her results were out and at 9:30pm she was in her private room.

I think with this experience my sister will actually see hospitals in a new light. She will understand why people had to wait 2 hours... because of cases like hers last night. The nurses and doctors checked her right away because she was literally writhing in pain. They had to rule out appendicitis and kidney/gall stones.

As of this writing, her scans came out negative. Her urinalysis had traces of stone but nothing conclusive. She is still under observation though because another theory was that her sugar was too high (she's a Diabetic) and the formation of acids in her digestive track was just too strong yesterday (I hope I explained or termed that correctly).

We're going to visit her in a couple of hours. They already allowed her to eat, though to start she will be on a liquid diet. At least she won't be all mad and crazy of hunger when we get there.

My Sister and Hospitals... a whole new light. I hope she'll be fine and released soon. And, I hope she does follow a strict diet and be more active this time, she's majorly obese.

Have a great Saturday. What will keep you busy today?

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Happy Thanksgiving to all

I know the year isn't over yet, and even if I'm not in the USA I'd like to share what I'm thankful for.

1. My hubby - For working so hard just to give us the life he thinks we deserve. I don't ask for a lot but he has high expectations. He believes that "When you shoot for the moon and end up short, you'll end up among the stars." I thank him for providing our needs and for always sticking up for us.
2. My little Missy - For sharing her eyes. Through her eyes, I learned to view the world in a whole new perspective. Also, for teaching me how to live, how to laugh, and how not to take things for granted.
3. For being a stay-at-home. I have never regretted giving up my career to take care of my little girl. With this new lifestyle, I have learned how it is behind the scenes and be grateful for everything my mother did for us. She was a stay-at-home mom too. My hope now is that I become or at least be able to accomplish half of what she has done for our family.
4. My mother, siblings, grandmother and godmother - For being with me every step of the way. From pregnancy to now, they are always "on-call" for anything I might need. I can always rely on them for everything, looking after little Missy when I have to go to the hospital, repairing furniture and appliances, cleaning house when my helper left... everything!
5. The Blogosphere - I only started blogging this March but I am thankful for everything I have accomplished. I have managed to earn a little extra for our needs and the blessing keep on coming. I also thank everyone I have met up with through blogging for teaching me new things. Be it technical (about html or coding), to writing or money making techniques, I am grateful for the knowledge, time, and patience you have shared with me.
6. For my online friends (HML, OCB, BC). Being in different countries certainly didn't stop us from sharing stories and tips. Thank you for sharing your life with us and for making ours extra special. Thank you for the surprise gifts and most especially, your support during the times we needed it. You will forever be my extended family from afar :)
7. Lastly, and most importantly, to God Almighty, for making all this possible.

Happy Thanksgiving to all. Wherever you are, I know you're thankful for something in your life. Be safe and more blessings to come for all of us.

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Black Friday Special from Nutrition 53

*This is not a paid or sponsored ad. I just wanted to share :)

It's great to be in the USA this week! Lots of ongoing Sale and great Black Friday Deals. Unfortunately, I am not in the USA but I wanted to share this deal with those who may be able to use it.

Starting today until Monday, November 29th, get a Sleep1 and/or Multi1 for FREE when you sign up for Nutrition 53's VIP Program. That's over $40 in savings!

Visit Nutrition53 at the following:
Website : www.nutrition53.com
Facebook: facebook.com/nutrition53
Twitter: twitter.com/nutrition53
or call 1-888-4832653


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Jazz Shoppe Giveaway Winners

Thank you again to all those who joined the Jazz Shoppe Giveaway. Before we announce the winners, I'd just like to let everyone know that Mommy Glenda of Jazz Shoppe will be at the following bazaars:

Nov. 26, 27, and 28 - Rockwell Bazaar, Makati
Dec. 3, 4, and 5 - Cuenca Park Bazaar, Alabang Muntinlupa
Dec. 4 and 5 - SMX Convention Center, Pasay City
Dec. 11 and 12 - Valle Verde 2, Pasig City
Dec. 18 and 19 - Xavier, Quezon City
Dec 18 to 23 - Noel Bazaar, World Trade Center, Pasay City

For more information about her on-hand products, please visit her FB page (send a friend request if you're not friends with her yet) - Jazz Shoppe

... and the winners are ...

Oops, before that. Even though we only have a handful of winners, I have decided to thank everyone who supported me by joining my first giveaway. This is why the participants will each get 1 sweat towel from me.

Using the email address you provided in your entries, please email me your physical address so I can send you a little something. This request goes out to everyone who joined - Avelo_16, Kayce, w0rkingAth0me, Gustosa, Emerald, Daphne Sy, Esvi, LadyMishel, Kat, Akiakat15, Jonathan, Luckyfinds, Nicquee, Michelle Aleli, Cornelio03, Janice and Ruth. I hope you can email me within 48 hours so I can have it sent before the week ends and you receive it no later than Monday.

Now the winners, for real this time.

Php500 worth of on-hand items from Jazz Shoppe + 1 sweat towel

#63 - w0rkingAth0me

Shouted on my FB wall
http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=121324951262550&id=100000188474955

===================================

Php300 worth of on-hand items from Jazz Shoppe + 1 sweat towel is

#83 - Esvi

Tweeted today(11/15)
http://twitter.com/esvi_chloe_aven/status/3939109915594753

===================================

Skirtings + 1 sweat towel

#118 - Nicquee

blog list: http://testingmyluck.blogspot.com/ (right sidebar)

===================================

Green leg warmers + 1 sweat towel

#88 - Akiakat15

Followed My Tots Exactly! on my Facebook

===================================

Yellow leg warmers + 1 sweat towel

#104 - Luckyfinds

Updated status on my Facebook wall #1
http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=175773125772132&id=1649425764

===================================

2 pcs of sweat towel

#133 - Cornelio03

Following My Tots Exactly! on twitter as cornelio03

Again, thanks so much. You have 72 hours to respond to my email, otherwise a new winner will be declared.

Hope you have fun with your new goodies. Again, my sincerest thanks! Please watch out for my next giveaway, especially if you're an alternative mom or an alternative dad ;)

xoxo Kat


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Merry Christmas from Blankpixels and Sulit.com

I'm supporting blankPixels' entry to Sulit's Christmas card-making contest. Click here for more details.

(Static version. Click here for the full animated Christmas card.)

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My first shot at Video Calling

I have been corresponding with some of my Mom and my Grandmother's friends in the USA. The internet makes it easier for both parties since everything is almost at a click of a button. Also, my Grandmother (lola) now has a hard time writing snail mail to her friends and "adopted" children. I guess it's brought about my rheumatism or arthritis.

Her friends told me to just ask what she wants to say and in turn, I type and email it to them. When they respond back, I just print it out and let my Grandmother read it. Convenient, right? Nope, it's not working for them. Whenever I ask my Grandmother what she wants to say in reply to their emails, she couldn't think of any. She says it's just not the same as writing.

A couple of months back, her friends requested that we do a video call. They wanted to see my Grandmother. I finally got a chance to set it up yesterday. Hubby brought his lappy with us, and the Globe Tattoo HSDPA Internet USB.

It didn't work. Skype would only connect for a maximum of a minute and a half. Yahoo was even worse. Plus, this was a one way video call. We forgot to bring our camera. I can't even imagine how worse it would get if both sides were streaming videos.

So as a last resort, because they really wanted to see my Grandmother, we went to my Grandmother's neighbor. She also had children overseas and connect with them through video conferencing. They only used Yahoo Messenger, which was fine, but when they had it set up, I noticed that they were using a prepaid dial up card.

Another problem. First it was too costly for her neighbor since it's prepaid. Second, for sure there would be a minimum of 1-minute lag because the connection speed was just about 30k. Third, with umm... senior citizens on both ends, it was extra difficult to manage the delay. They kept repeating their questions and statements over and over.

They did manage to see my Grandmother for maybe 1 minute when they turned off their streaming. But as for making conversation, it was impossible. We just set up another schedule next week. Hubby would pick up my Grandmother and use our connection here in the house. Hubby uses Skype often for his meetings and I don't see much delay so I hope they finally get to "talk" and "see" each other.

I didn't think it would be that hard. But at least I learned a lot from this experience. My first shot at video calling may have been a failure, but it was a fun experience. It also made me realize how we've come a long way. How everything changes in an instant. From dial up, to cabled internet, to wifi, to HSDPA. I wonder what technology my daughter will be using 10 years from now?

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Jazz Shoppe Giveaway has ended

First, thank you to all who joined and supported my giveaway. I will be validating all entries by next week and hopefully announce the winner by mid-week, otherwise my deadline is by next Saturday.

Second, to those who didn't join but helped promote it, my sincerest thanks too. If not for your PR, I wouldn't have this much participants.

Third, thank you to Mommy Glenda of Jazz Shoppe for providing the prizes. I appreciate your support in this new career (blogging) of mine.

Fourth, to all who joined, once I've validated that you have at least followed the mandatory entry, which is to be a Google Friend Connect or GFC follower, I will be emailing you some good news. Because of this "news", you can only win once in the contest, but will have a freebie with it. If you don't win, you still get a little a, um... token. So just wait for my email (which is also my way of validating if the email address you used is valid) to know what the freebie/token is.

Fifth, I will be coming up with another giveaway next week. Please watch out for it.

I hope everyone has a great weekend! Ta-ta!

xoxo Kat

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One step at a time

These were pictures taken last weekend. I want to share one of my indescribable feelings as a Mommy. Somehow, seeing these pictures again made me realize that she has indeed grown up. She is getting to be independent and as a parent, I need to let her go her own way sometimes.

She wanted to catch bubbles with other kids


Slowly moving away from me


A quick look back to check if Mom is still there if she needs help


Then she moves on, on her own

I find it comforting yet heartbreaking. She is slowly learning the ropes of life, I know. But as a mother, it is hard to just let go.

What a better way to end the day though. At the end of the rainbow, I know something good will come out of all this. Looking forward to a long future with my not-so-little Missy. I just hope she takes it one step at a time.


Any similar experience you may want to share? Have a great weekend.


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