Mind of a fickle

Great Expectations

2011-07-22T22:19:00.002+08:00

Almost 2 months have passed... Busy is an overused word but I was. Went overseas for conference, went Down Under for our first entry and left our dear Pre, and 3 out of 4 birthdays have passed... Whew... To top that, most of my weekends are spent upgrading servers and firefighting with another team for things that have been missed out. Whew...

The good thing is... It's almost over and I have my VERY BIG BUCKET ready for blessings... The upgrades will be over soon and there will be some semblance to normalcy at work. And we're believing for that huge blessing soon. The problem was we are hoping yet we're not believing that it will happen. The Lord has spoken. It's time to believe. I am excited!

Dalagita

2011-05-05T17:28:00.002+08:00

For the past few months, we've been noticing changes in Dawter T. And, yes, I am referring to the changes that a girl undergoes. She was embarrased when I told her that she might need training b's soon.

She's doing well with her extra curriculars at school. Her form teacher recommended her as prefect and she went for an interview 2-3 weeks ago. She felt bad after and she told me her answers :

Dawter T : I don't think they'll pick me.

Me : Why?

Dawter T : Because of my answer to one question.

Me : It's just one question, for sure they will take into consideration your other answers. (she still look unconvinced and I can see that she really wanted to be one) What's the question and what's your answer?

Dawter T : The question was there was one girl (all girls ang school niya) who threw up on school grounds. What will you do? My answer was I will call the cleaner and bring the girl to the general office. But, the interviewer asked me what if the auntie is not around? So I answered, I will cover it with newspaper or paper. But, she asked me what if there's no newspaper?

Me : What did you say?

Dawter T : Don't laugh ok. I said I will cover it with my hanky.

And I laughed. Bad Mommy! Very Bad Mommy!!!

Me : Hmmm, ate, that might not be a good answer.

Dawter T : I know! That's why I told you I won't get in. My friend's answer was better, I should have answered that. She said, she will put a chair near it so that nobody will accidentally step on it.

Me : Yes, that's a good answer. But, ate, being a prefect doesn't define you (mommy moment). And you still have other things in school, you are math and PE monitress.

Dawter T : Yeah but that's not a big deal.

Grrrr... Mukhang gusto talaga maging prefect.

Me : Well, it's done and over. You just wait and see. I told you that nothing is impossible if you pray. If you want something and God thinks it's good for you, He will give it to you. (mommy moment again) So don't be sad anymore.

After a few weeks. I came home and Dawter T asked me to close my eyes.

Me : Why?

Dawter T : Just close your eyes. (after a moment) Now, open your eyes.

She showed me a pin --- "Trainee Prefect" pin!

Me : Wow, ate! Congratulations! Ang galing mo naman! (anak ko yan and this is my blog hahaha)

Dawter T : My friend has 3 pins - class monitor, Most courteous and Trainee Prefect. I only have 2 - Most courteous and Trainee Prefect!

Me : I will give you another one. The girl who has no satisfaction! What did I tell you? Don't compare yourself with others.

Hehehe... Ang kulit, super competitive!

Anyways, she was so happy and she wears it proudly on her uniform. We asked her not to bully anyone but be nice to the other girls. Not to be boastful and be humble.

Bebi A Is No Longer A Bebi

2011-05-05T17:13:00.003+08:00

During my younger years, I associated my grandparents' travel to the US to gifts and more gifts they will bring home to me. It's so funny that it's also Bebi A's perception. When I told her that I will be going again, she was momentarily sad but exclaimed, "Wow, you will have lots of gifts for me when you come back!" What a spoiled rotten kid! So, last night, she told me she wants a KEN (and another Barbie!). She said she have lots of Barbie's but no Ken. She wants them to kiss and marry! OMG! Huhuhu... I was surprised and a bit worried, like I want to stop the time! Or, tell her that Ken is not for sale!

Bebi A seemed more kikay to me than her ate. She's very vocal with her crushes. The flame at the moment is Bruno Mars. She knows his songs and argues with her ate about the lyrics. Young love. Hahaha... Her previous crush was a classmate but she was turned off when she found out that this boy doesn't take a bath in the morning. Hahaha... At least naman, di malalahian ng mabaho!

Claim And Believe

2011-04-29T16:00:00.003+08:00

Lately, I've been in a black mood. You can even read about it from my previous posts. Since April came in, it seemed like I am strugging to keep it together, at home, at work and even at "play".

It could be because of my long list of TO DOs... Which instead of getting shorter, it just seemed getting longer and longer. The "kiasu" in me wants to have to the list trimmed down so that I can breathe. And, it's not happening.

Anyway... I finally acknowledged to myself that I cannot do it --- ALONE. I uttered a simple prayer while I was in bus travelling to work. "Lord, turn my life around, even a tiny bit".

After that, I called Ate A and asked her to prepare. We're going to OZ embassy to get her visa. I was thinking that I haven't prayed enough, haven't asked the Lord enough for one wish to be granted. *insert smile here hehehe*

While at work, I printed all the necessary documents and asked for time-off. Rushed to OZ embassy, there were a few people... I commented to Ate A that at the US embassy, there are more people applying for visa. Anyway, we finished the form by 1130AM and queued. They called our number by around 1145 and we found ourselves in front of the immigration officer. The officer was very nice, when he asked how long Ate A has been with us, I had this feeling that everything will turn out fine. And it was, at around 1205, Ate A had her visa!

Oki, though we were very happy about the visa... We became worried at the minutes passed by. Bebi A will be coming in at 1230 and we don't think we'll be able to meet her. The bus uncle and aunty were not picking up the phone, our Pinoy neighbor was not around... We were really panicking!!! As soon as we saw our block, we rushed to our flat and saw Bebi A standing outside. All ALONE!!! My heart was beating fast! But she just smiled at me and greeted me with a sweet smile. She said she was fine but she was a bit sheepish when she told me "I had to pee, Mommy! I couldn't hold it. I peed near the trash chute!" Hahahaha... Anyway, we poured water over it but commended Bebi A for her presence of mind. I am just happy she's safe.

Thank you, Lord for yesterday... It did turn my day around... And, it also shortened my list by one... *wink*

I am off to work-packed weekend but I know that everything will turn out GOOD because GOD has already blessed me. I claim it and I believe it!

What's Ahead?

2011-04-25T14:49:00.003+08:00

I am feeling more and more anxious as the day comes near. It's a month and a day till our initial entry. And, it's 7 days after when we leave Pre behind. It's definitely a big change! And we rest our cares with the Big Bro! It's just that Pre will miss a lot of happenings :

1. Bebi A's 6th birthday
2. His birthday
3. My birthday
4. Dawter T's 9th birthday
5. Dawter T's first communion
6. Bebi A's graduation

and a lot more. Sabi nga niya, "tiis tiis muna". I know it'll be harder for him, he's all alone there with just our friends for company. Friends with kids who will remind him of the girls.

There are times when I ask why we need to go through with this. But, the answer is always IT'S HIS PLAN. And, that's just what I should remember. We almost gave up on this yet He still gave us an affirmative answer with a very explicit sign. What more should I ask? Why question?

We'll cross the bridge when we get there. (In our case, we'll cross an ocean).

Good Friday

2011-04-22T21:33:00.005+08:00

We went to our usualy "Bisita Iglesia" (church visits). I am bit nostalgic that this could be the last year that we're visiting these churches here in Singapore. Moving on, we ended up at our parish --- St. Mary's. It's nice that I could get Dawter T to read the prayers though she's like an old lady who constantly needs to sit down hahaha As expected, it rained in the afternoon.

I needed to write today. I planned to scrapbook but couldn't find the right papers yet. And, I am in a fix. I don't feel good at the moment. Hopefully, this will go away. Life has been giving me a lot to think about --- about being a better wife, a good mother, loving daughter and sister, dependable friend, a responsible employee and all the other roles I play in my life.

One of those roles has been bugging me so much lately and I feel that I am getting tired. How I wish I can just start over and was different from the get-go. Things will probably be different. I guess I am mostly to blame... This was something I've been pondering today being Good Friday... Should I continue and just be more patient since things will be different soon? Hmmm... This is really putting a BIG block in my heart. Everyday is a struggle to try to keep my eyes close, my mouth mum, my heart to love. I know the key to all these --- Humility. I have a lot to work on.

We are blessed that the Lord is humble that He took that cross for us. That his eyes are open looking at us. His mouth full of loving words. His heart with so much LOVE --- that He died on the cross for us to have salvation.

Getting Ready

2011-03-29T14:10:00.004+08:00

There is this feeling that you can't explain as you prepare for change. It all feels surreal sometimes. But, in my mind, I am counting the days... Then, listing down things to do, things to buy, things to --- I keep thinking this is all a dream. But, it's happening soon. I remember a reflection from Didache "Has God given you a dream but fear has paralyzed you from pursuing it? Today is the first day to walk on water." - Jon Escoto

Who wouldn't want to walk on water?

Blink Of An Eye

2011-03-13T22:05:00.002+08:00

I have been reading news of 7.+ earthquakes that had occurred in Japan prior Friday and I felt a huge relief that I am not reading anything bad.

However, last Friday was different. I sat stunned in front of my computer. I couldn't think of anything else. I couldn't work. I pinged one of the IT Admins in Japan and I'm glad that when he said that they are safe. He said, "It was a huge earthquake."

I searched for videos in CNN, Yahoo, BBC, etc. and it broke my heart how things were destroyed in a blink of eye. Water rushed from the ocean, fast and menacing. I was so scared. I wanted to go home to be with my girls.

Let's pray for all the people in Japan. They need our help and it's the least we can do.

Life Is Good

2011-03-03T16:09:00.005+08:00

I am juggling so many balls at work these past few months and been neglecting this blog. There were so many funny moments with the girls and some of them, to my despair, I have forgotten already. I hope that normal delivery will prove worthwhile later on as I try to remember those. I just have so many things on my mind so hopefully, it was just placed at the back of my mind.

Bebi A asked me for a Nerf gun for her birthday. Mind you, her birthday is still a few months away. I was reminded of the time when I asked for Voltes V action figure from daddy which we bought at Cash & Carry. Yes, I can even remember the store very clearly... So, I won't withold this Bebi A. After all, she is too kikay... And, she probably got the gun thing from her lolo hahaha... Her new favorite song is Just The Way You Are by Bruno Mars and she has been playing it again and again. She really loves to sing. Sana indi na sya bulol! Hehehe...

Dawter T has bagged the Most Courteous award again and been asked to be leader in a lot of things. It's a good exposure but in her class, being leader means carrying the test papers, putting the balls back to the store room, etc. Sabi nga, being a leader means to be a servant first. And, tomorrow, she will be interviewed by someone from Mediacorp. *Sana madiscover anak ko! Echos!* The addition of Science in the curriculum means added homework and I am struggling with this (YES, I really meant "I"). When she asked me questions, I don't know what to tell her. Hahaha... In my defense, I never liked Biology in High School (read as I didn't like my Biology teacher) thus I was not able to absorb anything.

Life is good. One day at a time.

Change Is Good

2011-02-22T09:29:00.002+08:00

PMS is a cruel thing... It makes a sane person feel down, unhappy, angry for no reason at all. Hahaha.

Anyway... this morning, I've decided to make a change... Ok, don't laugh. I just want to try different route on the way to the office. I took another bus that my officemate recommended! And, wow, it was indeed faster than my usual bus!

Most people who knows me knows that I am afraid of change. I feel like something will happen if I change "something" or "anything". Yes, I'm weird. (My husband will say I don't trust God enough or I don't pray enough.) Anyway, this small change I did made me realize that change is good if I give it a try. I feel God telling me to hush and just let things be. There are so many changes that's happening in our lives, and will happen in the near future. I should start planning and be brave. Life is good if you allow it to shape you to what God wants you to be. Don't fight God with all the Why's and How's. Change is good. Allow it. You might not see how good it is immediately, but later on, the purpose will be there.

A Very Long Time

2011-01-19T12:50:00.004+08:00

4 months is a long time to be away from this blog. But, time flew after my US trip.

Work piled up and our Philippine vacation was a few months away. Everything was rushed but managed to finish on time. Whew.

I hope to be able to blog more and to blog about the recent happenings in our life. Something big is happening in 2011 and it scares me so much. But, change is inevitable. And, I believe that God is leading us there.

School had started for the girls. Dawter T is already in P3 while it's Bebi A's last year in Pre-School. They've grown so much over the past few months. I am very happy that Dawter T is doing good in school.

Some antics by Bebi A. While in bed, she casually mentioned that when she grows up, she just wants to stay at home with her baby! Hahaha...

Dawter T is becoming too serious and too shy. And, I wonder why. (Rhyme pa!) I hope she would come out of her shell.

Thank you for those who keeps on visiting this blog even though there are no updates. I hope to be more consistent in the future. Hehe.

P.S.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DADDY R! May your soul continue to rest in peace...

Day 5 : Jump

2010-09-15T22:14:00.002+08:00

Some people will jump at the chance to be here in my place. I am the only one who feels so alone. I should change that.

I should always remember that this is a blessing from God. Something I've asked from Him and I shouldn't shortchange Him. I should make Him feel proud. Note to self : Remember the parable of talents.

The Lord will provide for transportation. The Lord will provide for company. The Lord will provide spending money. :-)

Day 1 : Choose To Be Happy

2010-09-11T22:09:00.000+08:00

It's so funny how the Lord knows what you're feeling and how He ALWAYS comes through for you. Yes, you've got problems but the moment you hear that He is by your side AT ALL TIMES, you smile... And though there's still heaviness in your heart, the Lord becomes your oasis, a fountain where you can draw your strength. So today I will look forward to 20 days of bliss, a wonderful time to know the Lord and the people around me.

Countdown

2010-09-01T17:00:00.004+08:00

Exactly 10 days to go til I fly to Austin. I am feeling a myriad of emotions.

Excitement. Because I get to go back to the US.
Nervousness. Because I don't know what's in store for me at the office.
Shyness. With my colleagues.
Homesickness. I will surely miss my husband and my 2 girls.
Worry. I just can't help it.

This is a blessing. To be able to go back. I pray that everything will be alright. Like what Cousin B tells me. JUST LET IT BE. Haha.

Dear Dawter T

2010-08-22T13:53:00.003+08:00

You turned 8 years old today.

I always felt that time flew by. That after all these years, I still didn't get to spend that much time with you. Hehe. I love you. I know you know that. I love your little quirks, how we always find you with paper and pencil, drawing and writing. I tickles me that you love to write.

I love that you're trying to love Bebi A the best way you can. Though you sometimes fight. We love it when we see you two playing with each other, talking shop (hehehe) and just comfortably sitting beside each in fron of the tv.

I love that you have a mind of your own at 8. You know what you want. But, I felt that I held you back in making decisions by making them for you. So from now on, I won't decide for you, you'll decide on your own but rest assured that I am still here --- your ever present stage mom, guiding you and supporting you. Just like what daddy told you, it's time to be independent.

I love you with all my heart, my sweetheart. I am always here for you.

Hey July!

2010-07-16T10:14:00.002+08:00

This blog seems to get updated monthly. Haha. Funny... July is almost always the busiest month for the family. With three birthdays at home *hint* and birthdays of family memebers around the globe.

Just dropping by to say HI. It's been raining and I am lazy.

Hey June!

2010-06-22T09:32:00.003+08:00

I am totally mixing it up with the song and it'll probably stay on my mind the whole day. But, I wanted a catchy title so bear with me...

It's mid month and a lot of things needs to be ready by early July (*hint hint*) I already bought some of the goodies... But, wait... Why is it that June becomes a preparation for July and August? June should be special in itself, right?

We had two best weekends yet.

June 13th with Ninang C... We spent it at Sentosa (Universal Studios and Siloso beach) after a hearty lunch at Sakae Sushi. The girlsssssssssss loved sushi. And, I was amazed and wanted to cry with sheer joy. (That's a mom of picky eaters!) Maybe it's because of this cartoon they watched all the time --- Sushi Pack!

We took pictures outside US hehehe coz the tickets were sold out for the day. We ate popcorn, of course --- cheese and caramel, yum! We heard that there's a $2 entrance ticket at 7pm so I inquired and yep, there was! But, had to wait until it's 630pm to buy. Well, since we're there... We waited then we went to Siloso Beach which was a real treat to the girls. They played near the shore (huh!) while we, adults indulged to some R&R at Bikini Bar. Mixed emotions because in a week's time, Ninang C will be going home... Well, I have a feeling that it'll push through. We went back to US and the girls were disappointed that most of the sites were closed. As Bebi put it, "we didn't go anywhere!!!" Uh... We capped the night with Purefood Sisig at home.

June 20th Father's Day... After church, we have no idea where to go. We, the good parents that we are, threatened the two girls that we'll go home if they don't choose. Bebi A chirped in that she wanted to eat at Sakae Sushi again. So, off we trekked to Orchard Road. We saw the aftermath of the flash flood hehehe Wendy's was closed (sayang!) so we just ate at Sakae again, much to the delight of my girls. Then, we went to Lido to catch a movie. We were lucky that Toy Story 3 3d still have some seats left for the 430 showing... It was a good movie! I cried! Haha!

After the movie, we went to Toys R Us to use the voucher they sent us. I asked the girls to choose a toy worth $5. In the end, we had to pay more because we didn't ask how much Dawter T's purchase. I should have known it's worth more because of the packaging. Oh well... They were happy with their new toys.

Whew... Tiring but very happy moments shared with loved-ones. Wish all weekends were like these two. Carefree, fun, relaxed, fun...

Hey June!

Suddenly

2010-06-10T12:02:00.002+08:00

God changed things.

Peaches

2010-05-26T14:43:00.003+08:00

It was only last night that the girls get to try peaches (the canned ones). I always forget to get one from the grocery. I don't dare to get the fresh ones, yeah I am bad!

Bebi A managed to get 3 bites. And Dawter T finished one fourth hahaha. Oh my! Tonight is Papaya! I have a feeling that the reception won't be good.

Oh what's with fruits and my daughters!

Cube

2010-05-19T10:06:00.002+08:00

That's the size of mango that Bebi A tried to eat. But couldn't. She said it tasted eeky! (Anu ba yan? Ang kulit!) Banana is not the only fruit in the world! Haha.

Dawter T managed to eat more than one cube. I am happy that she's trying.

Today's fruit is peaches. Errr canned one though.

Fruit Of The Week

2010-05-18T15:46:00.003+08:00

I remember that an early age, I was already a "fruit" person. I love most fruits. I eat a lot of fruits. Especially the seasonal ones like watermelon, melon, "siniguelas" which I usually can just eat during summer. I am enticed to go to church during May with Mommy because after the mass, she will surely stop by the fruit stand and buy fruits.

Much to my changrin, my daughters can count the fruits that they want to eat in their tiny fingers. Dawter T loves apples, oranges and grapes. Aside from that, it'll take a few prodding to make her take a bite. Bebi A is a lost cause hahaha she loves banana. Period.

So, while studying for Dawter T's Health exam, she showed me her activity food where she has no check on fruits and vegetables. Thus I dared her. NO DS if she doesn't eat FRUIT. I think that's a very good incentive to them.

So, last night, we asked Ninang C to pick the two fruits of the week. Lucky girls. It was mango and peach.

Let's wait when it's Kiwi week. Hahaha.

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T22:51:00.002+08:00

I love this day! :D Got to spend it with my sweets. Thank you for the paper roses which was inside a used Yakult (my eldest told me that the Yakult was to be used as pencil holder!). Two cards from my youngest, one in English, another one in Mandarin! Life is sooo good (despite the drama!) Hahaha!

Give Up

2010-04-27T14:21:00.003+08:00

For the past few days, that's the contant rant in my head. To say that I am pissed is an understatement. I am trying to understand but I think there's a limit to one's patience.

What We Were Up To

2010-04-22T19:48:00.003+08:00

Today.

Dawter T and her Fusion Dance group went to UCC hall for Singapore Youth Festival Central Judging. I was amazed and so happy about it. I never experienced such when I was studying. And then, there's the thing about me and dancing. I have two left feet. So there.

I am the group's official mommy photographer. I just had to volunteer so that I can watch Dawter T. And hardwork paid off as we can bring other family members. Ate A and Bebi A was able to watch as well.

What Am I Afraid Of?

2010-04-14T14:58:00.001+08:00

Really.

I feel so good today. The fears I had yesterday and the day before were pointless.

Just trust in the Lord and He will provide you with peace.

I was saying a small prayer last night.

"Lord, give me peace".

And, He did.

Labor Pains

2010-04-13T09:26:00.002+08:00

Last night was especially tiring for me. I experienced this labor pain like pains and I was twisting in bed. It was that painful. Now, I am just tired. It feels like I haven't slept at all. What with the constant jostle with Bebi A's feet and I was feeling uncomfortable. Para ako nadaganan.

So later. I will buy multi-vitamins as suggested by Tita A. Ate A and I used to take one but I stopped coz I feel I am gaining weight (oh well! I gained weight even without).

Let's face it, I am not getting any younger. It's about time to get really serious with my health.

Award in Chinese

2010-04-08T12:49:00.005+08:00

Dawter T never fails to surprise me with her accomplishments at school. In fact, the mere thought that she answer her homework/exercises correctly has already made me so proud (I can remember that at 2nd grade, I was pasaway, who doesn't listen, who doesn't do her homework and was in the lowest group in the Math groupings! Ha!)

Dawter not only answers her work correctly, she even understands them. Hahaha. Ok, don't laugh but that's important to me. I like to write but correct grammar was not something I had when I was in second grade.

Anyway, only Chinese had us stumped. She got good grades in Chinese last year but I didn't really mind it much since she didn't have a tutor. Now that she has one, I am so happy that her Chinese has improved a lot. By that, I mean she's one of the best in her class (ok, ok, I admit it's the lowest class in Chinese where all the non-Chinese are grouped, still, right?)

And, yesterday... She got an award --- in Chinese!!! Woohoo! Though we don't understand it a bit. It's enough that we know that it's an award for Chinese calligraphy. They awarded it during the assembly. My cheeky daughter told me that her friends were giving her a thumbs down sign. Oh, peer pressure!

Somebody please translate? Hehe

2010-03-18T12:53:00.003+08:00

If I join tweeter, this would be a standard tweet for me :

I want to go home!!!

Sad but true. I just don't have the energy and drive to work these past few days. Must be PMSing. I am getting old. Body aches here and there. And, I want to sleep, scrap and not think about work. Ha! All I can think about is food.

What's worst this week is that my "inspiration" to wake up doesn't have school! He! So, it's really doubly hard. Though as soon as I got out from the bathroom, I would wake them up by throwing pillows at them. Yeah. Please don't go to child services hihihi my girls love pillow fights!

Reading

2010-03-17T15:40:00.003+08:00

Errrr Bebi A thinks that she can read. Armed with her book, she asked us if we want her to read her book --- aloud! Indulge is what we'll do. ("She is so bored...")

Until Pre told her off. You're not reading, you just memorized it!

Kill joy! She was so cute nevertheless.

Woman With Little Faith

2010-03-11T21:03:00.002+08:00

And so I came to work with heavy heart. That's what I've been feeling since Saturday (I worked last Saturday though at home but it was one of the painful experiences I've had to date).

Well, last Wednesday, it was like Murphy's law all over again, nothing seemed to be going right. The previous night I sent 2 emails to my colleague in Austin not to send the notification yet (an email will be sent to all employees with the implementation of my project) because my boss wanted me to modify the text. So, I felt confident since I sent 2 right? Not reading 1 will be forgivable but not reading 2 will be utter and complete horror.

Anyway, when I woke up on Wednesday, I quickly checked my phone for my email (darn that phone! no no no I love my phone!) And there it was the email that was not supposed to be sent. So imagine my pain, and I'm sure my boss will not be very happy. That notification was sent back and forth for revision for 2 weeks! Because he wanted something with nice graphics, something artistic (bleh!)

While I was walking back to the office after lunch, I prayed. Nothing special. I just said, "Lord, please help me." And HE DID! My boss was online and he talked to me and I told him what happened even before he asked. And he said it was 99% ok. Huh! He must have had a good night sleep... Thank you, Lord! What's more is that he talked to me about a possible new role, well aside from my current one. Yes, I am a workaholic. I was soooo happy.

It didn't take God an hour to answer my prayer. You Woman with little faith! That's me! I never learn that I cannot outdo the Lord.

Thank you.

Cocky

2010-02-26T11:37:00.003+08:00

My eldest just became very cocky. I pity her mom (that's me!) and dad. Because now it's gonna be doubly hard to make her study.

Well, she has Chinese tuition every Friday. I overruled her dad and herself of course because I don't want to get heart palpitation every time there's an exam for her Chinese subject.

Here's what happened.

Thursday night, I told her to tell her Chinese tutor that she has an exam next week. She didn't inform her tutor. Grrrrr. And, we didn't study during the weekend. What will I teach her????

Anyway, Tuesday came, she got her result. She got 20/20 and she had the gall to call me and be smug about it. She even said "I didn't study yet I got a perfect score!" OMG!

That was not the end of it. I've been asking about her Math result because I was a bit nervous about it. Again, we didn't study. Haha. Because she was so sleepy so the exercises I made for her just became scratch papers.

I thought (yes, I did think about this) that she was hiding the result from me for fear of my *cough* anger *cough*. So, I asked the mom of one of her classmates and she told me that they have not gotten the results too. Anyways, again, I received a call around 4pm from my dear daughter. "Mom, I got 20/20 on my Math. Do you remember that I just slept and didn't study?" Huh! Ang yabang talaga! Gusto ko sana sabihin na "anak, term 1 pa lang, madali pa..." But of course, ayoko naman sirain tuwa nya at parati na lang sya nasesermonan. Yes, Kiasu mom! and dad na rin!

We're just happy with her accomplishments. I know that she's a bit (?) not happy with our nagging. But, as I always tell her, I just want to cultivate good study habits to her. I hope that when she grows older, she'd appreciate this.

***

I think this mom is cocky as well about her daughter's accomplishments that she has to blog about it. Huh! Hehehe...

She Says The Darnest Things

2010-02-08T11:41:00.002+08:00

She's no longer a baby yet for us she still is.

Yesterday while we were eating lunch, I asked her.

"What's your daddy's name?"

She thought it. As in then said, "Pre"

Hahahaha, if I could roll in laughter, I would have.

Pre is my endearment to my husband and she must have thought that it's his name. Hahaha.

Back To School

2010-01-06T16:49:00.002+08:00

Last Monday was the start of 2010 school year. My troops managed to wake up early! (Isang himala!)

It was pretty uneventful. I was supposed to check on Bebi A but her school didn't allow me to go in. I think they are still wary of H1N1. But, I did go to the office to pay the school fees. Met her Form Teacher, I hope she's better than her Nursery adviser.

As for Dawter T, she's Ms. Independent. Enough said. Just cute that I can ask her to buy things at the bookstore, etc. She really has grown. (Grabe naman sa bilis ng panahon!)

I pray that the new school year will be good for them.

8 Years

2009-12-28T11:23:00.002+08:00

Today we celebrate our 8th year in marriage bliss and un-bliss. About this time, we were in church surrounded by family and friends. And, I was wondering how lucky I was to be at that place at that time with THIS guy.

Though our married life has its share of ups and downs, and there were times when I wonder if my husband can still love me, all %&$* kilos of me hehehe he does the unexpected and shows that sweet side of him, lurking in the shadows of a gruff exterior and all my insecurities melt away.

Happy 8th, Pre! Thank you!

It's Christmas Time

2009-12-10T13:20:00.004+08:00

Do you feel the air around you? There's something magical about it. When the smell of cinnamon makes you excited that Christmas is just a few days... When you feel that you can wish, and it will be granted. Christmas at its best.

I always tell myself not to get caught up with everything, the gifts, the parties. The real meaning is within our hearts. The real meaning is Jesus. Let's always remember that.

Last Sunday was spent at the mall. We watched Winx Club hehehe I was very thankful that the whole family had dinner together. It's very seldom that we do that but I love it when do. Thank you to Pre and Tito R for being patient. Waiting for 2 hours for a 20-30 minute performace was a chore but you did it for the two girls who were amazed and delighted.

It was the first weekend that I felt that I can really look forward to Monday.

Cousins

2009-11-12T13:12:00.002+08:00

I've had a wonderful childhood. Though I didn't grow up in the same house with my siblings, our family always get together, we'd play and hang with my cousins.

I was just telling Dawter T about Flores De Mayo where the girls in the family would offer flowers to Mother Mary. We'd dress in white and wait for our queue that it's time to walk down the church aisle. Afterwards, we'd head home and feast on some merienda. Then, we'd play. It was so much fun! Sometimes the boys would come but most of time the little ladies would just play "bahay-bahayan", "titser-titseran", "taguan" or "patintero".

I was the eldest in my generation so they were a bit wary of me. I was the bossy "ate". Even the boys would always try to get on my good side. Mind you, my boy cousins were a rowdy bunch. Add my brother to that and it would be mayhem! Hahaha!

I remember the quiet afternoons at the grotto where we would try to catch tadpoles. Or the times we would make green juice (mula sa dahon ng gumamela) and mud cakes (putik!) and use that as our pretend food. I also remember forming secret societies and clubs. How cute!

I wrote this because I miss them. We're in different places in our lives now. But, I want to pull back some of the time and peek in one Christmas where we're so happy to get our aguinaldos from the grannies and put it in our new wallets hahaha Or one outing where we stayed in the water until we're like prunes.

How I took those times for granted! Wish there's a way to go back in time. Hehehe...

A Month Ago

2009-11-09T12:49:00.004+08:00

Was my last blog post.

Funny how time flies. How you don't notice that life has passed you by. That when you look back, you'd asked, where did the time go?

I wish I have the energy to do a lot of things. But, I have become lazy. I went into a rut.

I want to be crazy once again. So my word til the end of the year is Zeal.

I started with HOPE. I am pushing forward with ZEAL.

Musings

2009-10-09T15:17:00.002+08:00

We asked the girls' opinions of having another baby... They are excited but...

Ate : I want to carry the bebi! (Ano yun? Doll? hehehe)

Bebi A : We will hold hands. I will be the ate. He will follow me everywhere! (Ano yun? Bodyguard? hehehe)

Little Things

2009-10-09T15:15:00.002+08:00

No matter how mundane, come to the Lord with all your heart. Have faith and believe that your prayers are answered.

Day 2

2009-09-24T13:38:00.003+08:00

Day 2 was reserved for Disneyland. While Ate A wanders around the city, my troops and I went to Disneyland.

Yes, it is a dream come true. I am uber sentimental so when I saw the entrace, my eyes became watery. I think no matter how many times you go to Disneyland or wherever it may be, Disneyland will always hold a magical place in one's heart.

Dawter T wore her birthday badge and as soon as the staffs saw her, they greeted her a warm happy birthday. They also gave her stickers. (Fast forward, we now have stickers that would last the girls til secondary school... Of course, I am exag!)

We took photos near the entrace, the train station as background. Then, we hurried inside because I reminded Pre that characters might be coming out in the city hall area. True enough, Mickey and Minnie were already at the center of the "plaza". Pre lined up while I quickly went to the gift shop to buy the autograph book. Being a scrapbooker, I tend to be a hoarder of all things paper hahaha We waited for about 30 minutes and I can see Bebi A's patience wearing thin haha It was very hot and I know that my girls are still tired.

Our turn came and we managed to have our picture taken and our book autographed by the two mouses. We also saw Goofy but by the time we finished with the mouses, he was already gone. He'll come out at 12PM though so we walked a bit. That's when we saw the beautiful Mulan. Yes, she is very pretty! I even asked if she was really Mulan hahaha Dawter T said she is.

After that, we went back to Goofy.

The High School Musical cast was at the castle. They were performing live. My girls' comment were, "they're not the real cast" ~~~ I can see that they are not so interested. Haha. Maokray tong mga anak ko! E halos mga Pinoy pa naman hahaha.

After the show, we went past the castle and rode Cinderella's Merry Go Round. The girls were so excited! It's their first time to ride one. After that, we went to the 3D Mickey Mouse show. That was really great! We watched it twice (me thrice as I have watched it in Florida with Tita Aji's family) but I could have stayed there all day. Bebi A was a bit scared though but got a good laugh towards the end when Donald got stucked.

Since we were following the schedule, there was another show "The Golden Mickeys". It was another good show but it was in Chinese (with English subtitles) hehe The songs were in English though. After that we went to the Small World show. There were lots of people, some of them even fought in the queues. Argghhh... Bebi A slept when we alighted from the boat. I bought some hotdog buns for us to eat. It was very, very hot outside!

We trekked to the shows one after the other. We managed to catch the parade then off we went to see the Lion King show. It was really nice. Cousin I told me not to miss it. Then, we went back to the benches near the hotdog bun stand. We cooled off for a while, Pre and I were already debating if we're waiting for the fireworks display as my girls were showing signs of tiredness. Hehehe. That's when we saw Donald Duck, we couldn't have our picture taken anymore because Donald was on his way out but he did sign our autograph book. After that, Bebi A asked me to take her to the ladies. I put down the autograph book near Ate. Asked her to take care of it. When we got back, we decided to go try one of the rides. We saw Pluto and told Pre that I will just have him sign our book. Buttttttttttt, where's the book?

We quickly went back to the benches, it was not there. Asked people who were there. They didn't see it. So, in short, it was gone.

We were a bit disapppointed and tired. So we just decided to come back the next day. Oh well. Life goes on, right? Hehehe

Day 1

2009-09-11T21:18:00.004+08:00

We booked our tickets with Jetstar. I tried to make everything fit our budget. The girls were so excited and so were we. We were not able to eat breakfast... As usual, we were running late. So, Pre said we'll just buy something when we're on board the plane.

When checked in with Jetstar, the lady at the counter said. "Maam, you're holding Philippine passport, make sure that you have $700USD."

"Huh, why?"

"It's the policy"

"I've been there before and they have never asked me for show money." At that I was fuming so Pre drew cash and we exchanged it to Hongkong dollars.

Still. I was fuming. Kainis. Di man ako makabayan, ayoko talaga naapi tayo.

So, off we went to the gate. Picture-picture. Then, at last we boarded the plane.

The girls were asking questions about the plane, commenting about it. Pre and I smiled to ourselves. They were cute. It's not their first time but they were too young to remember their first plane ride.

We ate breakfast then we slept throughout the flight. I was praying that the immigration officer won't ask any questions or ask about the show money because really!!! that would really pissed me off.

We were in line with some lola's from Pinas. These lolas were the konya types hehehe Pre was asking me if I will be like that when I got old. I don't think so.

Anyway, we went straight to the hotel. And, boy, was I glad that we pursued that hotel. Though a bit pricey versus the ones I initially inquired on. It was worth it especially for the two girls. It was Disney all over.

What's more? We managed to get a birthday pin for Dawter so I don't need to order a birthday cake just to have that. I told her about the birthday pins that I saw when I went to Disneyworld and the Kikay in her got very excited! Initially, when I inquired about it over the phone, they told me that they won't be able to give her one since her birthday has passed. God has his ways! We are truly blessed! These little things made the trip so memorable and swak in our budget hehehe.

After checking in, we rode the shuttle to go to Disneyland station, the train from Disneyland was really cute!!! The windows were shaped as Mickey ears and inside the train were some figurines of Disney characters. Galing! Dun pa lang e natuwa na kami.

We went to Hongkong station to meet Ate A's ate. Then, we went to Jollibee. Yes, we went to Hong Kong to eat at Jollibee. The experience was not nice though. There were some Pinays who tried to bully us because we were saving seats, hayyy... And we were so hungry, so alam nyo na... Tempers flared and the food was not what we expected. Still, it was Jollibee.

After breakfast cum lunch cum merienda, we waited for the mass at the nearby church. We were pretty sure we won't be able to attend mass the next day so tired as we were, we attended the anticipated mass. Ok! Pre was laughing at me because I was so sleepy. Apo talaga ni Andres because after the mass, we were energized.

We went to Times Square afterwards. Again, picture-picture then tried to find a Pizza Hut. The girls love pizza and we managed to find one. The taste was not the same, the girls were a bit disappointed. They asked why hahaha

After dinner, we went back to the hotel. We were very tired then. But we got very excited with all the Disney stuffs in the hotel.

Then, we slept.

Day 1 was over. Excited for Day 2.

The Night Before

2009-09-04T18:13:00.002+08:00

I know that I have to prepare for the trip tomorrow but couldn't help but go to Her World's Project Makeover. I was enticed by the "goodies bag" ~~~ yes, that's what was stated in the email. Project Makeover was sponsored by Her World and Clinique and being a Clinique user, I was hoping to get freebies, lots of 'em!

Anyway... I met with my sister's friend L and talked to her about Singapore Citizenship and what she said made me consider it all the more. I think that's for another post.

When I came home, the girls' bag were already packed. Only left was my bag and Pre's. So we prepared it and tried to make sure everything's there.

We didn't give milk that night to Bebi A because we're bringing the bottles in Hong Kong.

I slept at around 1AM. The girls slept after I told them that if they don't wake up, we will leave them behind.

I Am SOOO Excited

2009-09-04T16:28:00.003+08:00

for the girls and wished that we're there...

For the second time as a family, we're taking a vacation that's not in Philippines. This was my dream last year... And, it's finally coming true... Thank you, Lord!

This Little Piggy

2009-09-02T16:34:00.002+08:00

issss so cheeky!!!

After gulping a 240ml

Me : "Bebi A, you're getting really big... You will be a baby piggy!"
Bebi A : "I am the baby piggy, you are the mommy piggy!"

The Journey

2009-08-22T13:53:00.000+08:00

You were not planned. In fact, we were surprised that we easily conceived you. With God's grace, of course. We were so excited!

Mommy had UTI and that's how we met the OB-GYNE. Daddy and Mommy were very comfortable with her. We loved seeing you in the ultrasound machine and looked forward to every visit. Then, we felt you move, felt your hiccups. I love how you're with me all the time. I talk to you, we sing to you, read you stories, daddy even recited the multiplication table to you. Talk about excited first time parents.

We asked Tita E to buy most of your things. And, when it came here with your lolo and lola, I became more excited! We washed your clothes, got the crib ready which was given by Ninong Mah and Ninang L on Mommy's birthday. A lot of people helped us start up as a family. We are very blessed. Lots of our relatives from the Philippines and the US planned their holidays here in Singapore to meet you.

A week before you arrived, mommy had a bloody show so the next day, we went to the doctor. The doc said that you're coming soon. She said that if you don't come in the next few days, doctor will induced mommy on August 22. Days came and went, nothing happened. So, we went to the hospital on August 22.

I couldn't push you out on the first few tries. You were a big baby. The doctor had to use a Kiwi cup to help mommy. And then, we heard you cry. Daddy's and Mommy's life changed that moment.

A lot of people visited us in the hospital but sad to say, your pedia found that your jaundice level is too high and recommended that you stay at the hospital for a few more days. Mommy was so stubborn that she opted to stay too. I couldn't bear to leave you. But, after a few more days., your jaundice was still not on the normal level. Daddy convinced mommy to go home because our hospital bills is piling up.

Mommy pumped milk for you and daddy brought it to the hospital. We were so sad but the day came when your pedia called and he told us we can take you home. What a happy day that was!

We just didn't expect that you'll keep us up at night hahaha But, still those time with you as a baby were precious times for me.

7 years has passed. Those memories are still vivid in my mind. Your first tooth, first walk, first words...

Thea, we love you. Always remember that. You know that you can always tell us about your problems, your crushes even. Hehehe. Stay happy, my princess.

The Zoo

2009-07-18T20:32:00.000+08:00

We were supposed to go to the Zoo on my birthday but Pre doesn't want to shortchange my birthday so he insisted on going the day before. All of us went and to our surprise, all of us had fun!

Living near the Zoo, we dilly dallied. We alighted at CCK while I argued that there's a free service at Kranji. I was wrong so we had to take from Kranji to the Zoo. Upon reaching, we went straight to KFC to eat. Of course, my dear Bebi A had a blast. KFC fried chicken is one of her favorite foods. Dawter T had popcorn chicken and she didn't finish it. She was too enthralled with the surroundings to keep still.

We were stuffed with chicken that we felt sleepy. Being the lazy warts that we are, it took forever for us to get started.

Thank you to Pre's office, the adults' entrace were free. We only had to pay for the girls. When we went inside, we tried the Sea Lion show but it was already starting so we decided to trek on the way to the elephant show. There were lots of changes from the last time we visited the zoo. So it seemed like it's our first time there. Despite the weather being more cloudy than sunny, it was very humid.

The elephant show is more or less the same but the girls had fun feeding them. I was hesitant at first but Pre insisted. We went to the Sea Lion show after that and it was fun! That's quoting Bebi A! It was, really! I could also commend the host for making it very lively!

Our next stop which I insisted because I promised the girls was the Rainforest KidzWorld. Wow! The place is really cool! There were various activities for kids of all ages and the two girls wanted to dive in to the activity pool. We let them. We didn't even ask them to change to their swim suits. Afterwards, they had a shower at the tentacles outdoor shower. There was also to this cable swing thingie which I was so scared of and I almost made the two girls hurt themselves. So, I asked them to relieve me of the duty of waiting for their cable swing. Hahaha...

After that, after a litany of promises to the girls that we'll be coming back. We fin'lly headed back to the entrance. We waited for the bus that will take us to CCK then later on took an lrt home. We were tired but we were very happy.

Wake Up

2009-07-14T10:30:00.001+08:00

Me : Bebi A, wake up! Time to go to school...
Bebi A grunted but turned her back on me.

Ate A : Bebi A, wake up! Let's play Wii!
Bebi A woke up then went to the dining room to eat her breakfast!

It's another school day! Hahaha...

The Gift

2009-07-05T23:20:00.006+08:00

Bebi A is not high maintenance. In fact, she likes simple things. She's happy if she'll be given an 80c bubble juice.

Today is her birthday. She's now 4 years old. She decided not to have a party at school (and we couldn't have it as well because of H1N1) for reasons she didn't divulge to me. She just wanted a simple get together with her cousins and buddy, I. Her only request were loot bags and balloons.

We indulged her with that. This morning she woke with a living room full of balloons.

After her party, she asked for milk and when Ate A gave her one. They had this conversation.

Ate A : "I don't have gift for you, what do you want?"

Bebi A : "You can choose, scissors, toys or milk."

Ate A : "Well, here's your milk."

Bebi A laughed, "Then, that's your gift to me!"

Hehehe. I want to smother her with kisses. I really wish and pray she'll stay that way. Innocent, funny and always have a smile on her face. Happy Birthday, Bebi! I wove you!

Kikay at 4

2009-07-01T17:44:00.002+08:00

I find her boyish and it surprises me when she runs to her ninang to have her nails polished.She would watch Ninang when she blow dry her hair.

She never comes to me for these things. Because I will never be able to feed her imaginationwith lipstick, powder and nail polish.

But, a few days before she turns 4. She asked for make up set and nail polish set.

She didn't get this from me.

I remember when I was already working. I had a pedicure, my nails colored with vibrant red (if I remembercorrectly?). When I got home (after a 10 minute walk), I took out the acetone from the medicien cabinetand removed the color. My daddy amused and watched me as I did this then made a comment, "nag-init ba mga kuko mo?"

So, there goes my kakikayan. I was never a kikay. I was a tomboy growing up. As I have mentionedhere a lot of times, my hair gets a comb run twice a day (in the morning after bathing and in the eveningbefore going to bed). I don't wear make-up. I don't put on lotion. I only have watch, earrings and my ring. Otherjewelries --- hmmm, I am scared I would lose them that I just don't wear it.

So, definitely, she didn't get any kikay bone from me. Now, I am off to Toys R Us. That's all will she be able to get from me --- Kikay-wise.

I Tried To Let IT Pass

2009-07-01T14:26:00.004+08:00

But couldn't. So I asked around. Didn't get my answer until I saw Auntie.

A brief background. When I came to the office Monday morning, my things were packed in plastic bags. It is as if they can bag the H1N1 virus.

One of my pet peeves is when people touch my things. I am a bit of a messy person but in all that mess is my technical know how and my creativity! (Nicely put nyehehehe) So just imagine how pissed off I was to find it bagged, out of place.

Auntie cleaned it, bagged it, sanitized everything as per the instruction of the Ops Manager. Grrr... Then told me she used up all my 3-ply special tissue. Another Grrr...

Ok, ok... I am going to let it pass now.

H1N1 Nightmare

2009-06-28T22:52:00.005+08:00

Last Thursday was an ordeal that I don't want to go through again.

The growing numbers of H1N1 cases has made us very wary. Moreso for Ate A who just came back from the Philippines. She was really nervous that she might have contracted the virus while she was there. To add to the "games" playing on her mind, she had a cold. Wednesday night, Pre asked me to pass her the thermometer. He wants her to be at peace. She was really scared after watching TV Patrol that when I asked her if she wants to go for a check up, she said yes.

The next day, Thursday, I asked permission to work from home so that she can have her peace of mind with a checkup. Her temperature before she left the house was 36 something. So for me, it was just routine, I just want to give in to her wish. Well, also to make sure that the girls were safe.

I got a call from her that the doc wants to send her to the hospital. Huh?! Why? She said that when the doc took her temp, she had 37.6. Still, I argued with the doc that it's not fever. The doctor was adamant that they need to report it to MOH. So, Pre told me to just let them call the ambulance and take Ate A to the hospital. That was at 10AM.

Pre was sent home after he told his boss and HR that Ate A was suspected to have H1N1. I told my colleagues as well. Just to be on the safe side. And, everything ballooned into a big drama.

Ate A was picked up at 130PM, imagine waiting outside the clinic for 3+ hours. Then, was also on hold for the swab test because her BP shoot up. Nerbiyosa pala. Hayyyy... So, anyway, at around 330PM, she sms'd me that the swab test was done. And, that they were told to stay there. Ate A was nervous wreck that she couldn't give me more details, if she will be staying at the hospital or if they will allow her to go home. We comforted her by telling her that H1N1 can be treated and that she shouldn't be scared.

For all the drama until 6PM, she was sent home in a taxi paid by the hospital. She looked harassed, her eyes puffy from crying and she needed to be isolated. She locked her room just to be sure that Bebi A won't go in.

All those times, I was thinking that it couldn't be H1N1, that it was all in her mind. I was stressed.

The next day, my colleagues kept on sending me messages asking me if I am ok. I said I am but of course, the story has become a different one. That I had high fever, blah blah blah... Where did that come from? I was very clear in telling one of my colleagues that Ate A has slight fever and colds. Nothing more, nothing less. They kept bugging me for results. I kept calling MOH and all they can tell me is that they will call us.

At around 4, we called them again. Result is out but they are still sorting it out. They said that they will call us in 30 minutes. They didn't. By then, I was already a bit fed up with all the drama that I asked Ate A to call MOH. Ayun, "NEGATIVE" Sows!!! Hayyyy....

That night, I felt so tired. Wished it didn't happen. And, feels a bit funny to come to work on Monday. Oh well, life goes on.

A Good System

2009-06-24T16:30:00.004+08:00

Having lived here in Singapore for almost 10 years now (10 years on August). I've had some things that I don't like about the country but of course, since I am still here, the good outweighed the bad.

One of those things is about how the government implements things and the people follow. We're in the midst of a global pandemic and I am very happy about (though the numbers are rising) the procedures the ministries and agencies follow.

Today, I received two calls. Both from my daughters' teachers. Asking me about my daughters' travel history. They want to ensure that the school is a safe place to go come Monday when the classes resume. And my eldest daugher's teacher even used her mobile.

Isn't that something to be at peace about? That the schools are doing more than what they are supposed to do. I hope I remember this when Dawter T and I are doing her homework and when we're preparing for her exams hahaha

Thank you, Lord! And, I will continue praying that this pandemic will be over soon.

Celebrating Daddy

2009-06-21T13:30:00.000+08:00

It always warms my heart how he takes time to talk to Dawter T during their drinking sessions (milk drinking sessions, you naughty minds!) about her questions, about anything... He challenges her to be a better person, takes time to teach her Math and he's always there to comfort her when I scold her (hahaha!)

I love that he doesn't get tired of all of Bebi A's questions. All the why's and how's. How he never fails to tuck her shirt in at night, check if she's covered with blanket (which she will just remove later) and he's always there to wipe away the tears if she ever gets a booboo.

I am so blessed that he's the father of my kids.

Happy Father's Day, Pre! We love you!

The Introvert and The Cheeky

2009-06-16T21:45:00.003+08:00

Bebi A's birthday is coming up soon. When she started school, having a party at school was her daily chant. But now, she just wants to have a small party here at home, actually at the playground downstairs, with 5 kids as guests. For all her sunshiny attitude, she's becoming really shy. And, she still wouldn't tell me why she doesn't want a party at school.

Oh well.

Off to another daughter. I asked Dawter T to pass me my toothbrush (with toothpaste of course). So, she passed it to me and I didn't say thank you. Ok, ok, lesson learned when she said "thank you ha!"

They're really growing up, they have their own likes and dislikes... And, everyday I learn to be a mother. Ang kukulit!

Let Her Relax

2009-05-29T16:20:00.002+08:00

I am not a Kiasu parent. I am not a Kiasu parent. I am not a Kiasu parent.

Hehehe...

But, maybe I am. *grins*

I went to Dawter T's school today to talk to her Form Teacher and her Chinese Teacher. Before I went in, I talked to another mom whom I got to know coz I always sms her when I can't understand Dawter T's handwriting, she told me that the Form teacher encouraged them to push her daughter more.

Hmmm... So I got a bit scared.

I went in. I finally met her Form Teacher whom I exchange emails with.

I was pleasantly surprised about the feedback.

"Your daughter is well-liked by all her teachers. She's very keen on studying and learns fast" (mana sa akin!!! joke)

I asked her if I need to "push" my daughter to study more. She said no. She said to let her try things that she will enjoy like arts.

With regards to Chinese, again, I heard the magic words, she is well-liked. Hahaha. "Charming pala sya." And, she has enthusiasm to learn Chinese (pramis po, indi ko makita ito sa bahay!!! minsan naiiyak pa sya...). The only thing is it's really hard for her to speak.

Thank you, Lord!

*** For those who read my blog and wonder why I am so stressed with my daughter's progress, Primary school here in Singapore is quite tough. Sad but true.

She's OK... Basically, She's OK...

2009-05-28T16:11:00.000+08:00

"And, that she's shy when there's group discussion or play"

Those were the only things Bebi (no longer a Bebi) A's Form Teacher told me. I am a bit concerned about Bebi A coz she's bulol and she still cannot write. Ok, ok, I am comparing her with Dawter T. What my relatives and friends have been telling me is that Bebi A's growth is normal, maybe it's Dawter T who is ~~abnormal hahaha~~ slightly advanced.

They also told me she likes to sing a lot and likes to ~~complain~~ tell them things. Mang-ookray talaga?! Hahaha...

But, we're very happy. She has grown in a span of months, from the crying fits in the morning and to excitedly getting up in the morning to go to school.

And may I say that I really like her Chinese teacher. And, she seems to genuinely care about Bebi A. Ayan, may pangatlong ina na... Hahaha...

Results : Passed

2009-05-27T21:43:00.002+08:00

"is an inquisitive and bright student. She is confident in her language and this is seen in her frequent contributions in class discussions. She is a helpful girl and is always ready to encourage her peers around her. She is conscientious in her daily work and always strives to do her best at all times. Keep up the good work!"

That's what Dawter T's Form teacher wrote in her report card. We teased her if this is true. Haha.

We're very happy with her grades. Her grades in Chinese was not bad, in fact, it was much, much better than we expected. Good thing her 1st term grades in Math and English are high, it somehow pulled her percentage (I guess that's their equivalent to GPA). Yipeee!

(But, being the Kiasu mom that I am now, I still told her that if she did much better in her SA1 exams, her grades would have been higher... Tsk, tsk, tak... Ok, tama na... Happy na e... Thank you, Jesus! Nakuha sa dasal!)

Take Me Out Of The Dark

2009-05-27T15:27:00.003+08:00

I am feeling down lately. I guess I can blame it on my rebonded hair (Sister C, I guess it's not the salon!)

I will be very vague here. But, I am so pressed lately with deadline and more deadlines --- at work and even at play.

There's not enough time. I have to make sure family comes first or else there will be WW.

I am left with two days and 2.5 hours at work (as of this writing) and my projects ain't moving, while I have to tend my teammate's.

Next week will be different. Staying at home means housework while online answering queries. Or should I just not open my laptop and let them figure out their problems.

Hayyy... not my day... But I am hoping that it'll turn better tonight.

Stressful

2009-05-19T11:40:00.003+08:00

Dawter T likes to play and watch tv --- a lot!!! That sometimes she hurries her school work to be able to...

Problem is, when we check her school work, she usually has to redo. With that comes a bit of a sermon from me and her dad.

I feel that she gets too stressed... The education system here is like "matira, matibay"... I was telling a friend and my sister last night, I never studied when I was in grade school but I still managed to get decent grades. I just can't imagine that my kids had to burn the midnight oil to study and do homework. To top it all, (I am guilty of this), push them hard to study.

With Dawter T's case, I guess it's not only me and Pre, even Bebi A adds to her woes. Imagine Dawter T almost crying because we had to practice her additions and subtractions over and over again... Then, this little tweet will tell her ate "Ate, if you don't study, you will go back to my school!!!" With a slang "Sige ka" in the end...

Que horror!

It's Getting Closer

2009-05-18T14:44:00.002+08:00

to two weeks of bliss, being at home, though working is still good vs getting up early to go to the office and work.

Working while the girls are playing, working in shorts, working with my scrapbook supplies nearby hehehe... You can tell that I am looking forward to it...

I don't care if I will be at home all day. I will be there with the kids, bond with them.

Oh, June 1, please come quick!

When Your Daughters Are Growing Up

2009-05-13T12:47:00.005+08:00

What do you do? Hehehe...

On field trips :

Yesterday was Bebi A's first field trip. She's all independent now. I was quite worried until I called home as 1230 yesterday and found out that she's home.

They went to Jacob Balas at the Botanical Garden. I asked her if she planted anything (yun kasi paalam nya), "No, Mommy! We just splashed water on each other but we had fun!"

On crushes :

This made my heart skip a bit. Ninang C told me that Dawter T have a crush (present tense). I asked her who and she told me. It was a boy from her pre-school. (hay naku, side kwento, kaya naman pala nung graduation, may I greet pa ang mader nung boy??? parang close sila di ba?) Since I've been in Ursula mode since January, Dawter T feels really afraid to tell me things (yes, I am trying to change!!!) but one day I asked her, and I don't care if it's because she was afraid or what (sinuhulan ko naman ng donut), but she did tell me. Wahhhhhhhhh.... My dalagita is growing up. Kinikilig na sya when I mention the boy's name... May Day, May Day!!!

Why Am I a Happy Mom?

2009-05-11T09:49:00.003+08:00

When you have 2 girls who goof of like this, who wouldn't be happy, right? *** Just forget the times when they don't listen when you call them, hahaha... ***

Please Don't Remove This Cat, It's Mine!

2009-05-05T22:11:00.002+08:00

Well, that's the sign on the makeshift cat house (box of Velodyne speakers that has holes and doors and stuffs). The cat is probably "outside the kulambo" for some reason. But, still it shouldn't be in our recess area.

Arghhhh Neighbors!

2009-05-04T15:54:00.003+08:00

I thought that we've found our jackpot. We've got good neighbors that talks to us (the other just nods), kababayan neighbors, more or less the people on our floor are quite friendly and errmmm clean.

Anyway, our woes started way back but I didn't mind then but when thrash piles up near where your compressor is, it's not good. It's not neighborly. Somewhere up there are a bunch of people who doesn't have manners, who litters and throws their trash on the window. If it fell on the ground floor, I wouldn't have minded probably since the cleaner will see it and clean it, I guess. But, it got stucked on our level! We've had all kinds of trash, from papers to tissue papers (I don't want to think about it!) to plastic of rotten food!

Pre cleaned it a few weeks back and thought of putting something clever so that it won't hit our rails. But, last week, there was this strong winds that hit Singapore and he had to remove it. Anyway, the trash came back!

Of all the things to throw, why rotten food? Why can't they throw it in their trash can? their bin? It really pisses me off!

~~~

On another neighborly rant! I think our neighbor's cat gave birth recently. We found cats all over! And, these cats are so smart they came inside our house! Of course, the girls were thrilled! I freaked out though! One thing is, Bebi A has asthma and cats are not good for that! Then, this morning, guess what's outside our door!!! The cats' house was outside our door!!! Are they subtly telling us to adopt those cats??? OMG!!! This is really not good! Arghhhhh!

Crazy

2009-04-21T15:08:00.003+08:00

Life could be crazy sometimes. I mean our normal everyday life is crazy as it is, but to top it off Primary 1 SA1 makes it crazier. I have to make reviewer for Dawter T, collaborate with other moms with their reviewers. Hehe.

It is just tiring, and I'll say it again, it's just crazy to be stressed like this over a major exam in Primary 1. What more when my daughter is in her secondary school! OMG! Kukulot ang bago kong rebond! Haha.

Little Women

2009-04-15T14:01:00.004+08:00

I am not sure how my little girls became little ladies before my eyes.

One night, I enticed the girls with my special liquid soap (Marks and Spencer Aloe Vera foam wash) so that our night time bath ritual will be painless. Since then, they use it at night (I am not even sure if children their age can use it but I don't see anything different on their skin hehehe), they like it because as Bebi A puts it, "I smell good."

A few weeks back, we went to M&S to buy some girly things hehehe and they saw the foam wash in different colors. Dawter T likes the peach, Bebi A likes the water lily. So, now, I am in a predicament, which foam wash to buy first? Hehe.

I love that I get to share these things with the girls. I am not someone who's kikay. I don't wear make-up, I don't like lotion and I only comb my hair after bathing and sometimes before sleeping hahaha (that's why I need to rebond my hair). So, this is quite special for me. I just hope they won't be like me. I hope they follow their lola's and tita D's footsteps.

My Old Job

2009-04-15T13:41:00.002+08:00

I have posted in this blog my past work woes, when I was still handling anything technical under the sun. One of those things is coordinating with web hosting companies. It's not every month though that I have to do this, it's just that tracking the expiry, talking to their customer service officers when there's problem can be quite cumbersome.

These days there are a lot of web hosting companies at affordable rates. They even give you free email accounts. I remember how I had to look for companies with competitive rates. Further to that, you have to make sure that downtime is minimal, if not zero. I remember when we subscribed to one company and our users used to complain to us every week that their web site is down, that they cannot receive mails. It was horrible! To add to the injury, their customer service was not good. My ex-boss never let me lived that down.

One of my teammates suggested to go into the web hosting business. But, I told him that it's quite a task managing different web domains, making sure our rates our competitive, and the biggest factor of all, that we won't fail our customers with regards to our service. Let me tell you, back then, our network was not that stable thus it didn't push through. What's more, our department is a cost-center, not a profit center. Though my ex-boss would like to be in the latter category.

For those of you who wants their web sites hosted, just make sure that you get value for your money. It's one thing that it's cheap but look at their service as well. It's not a good thing if your web site takes a long time to load or that it cannot be found.

Happy Easter!

2009-04-14T17:42:00.001+08:00

Dawter T has been bugging me (eversince her Ninang and I told her about egg painting stories) to give her an egg. Even though Easter's over, her artistic side just want to try new things. And, can I say that the word "paint" holds a great excitement for her. The egg painting didn't happen. Maybe next year I'll be more prepared for Easter.

Easter was spent at a friend's house. Their little boy turned 4 and can I just relay here how that boy can drink 4 bottles of milk at night. Awesome, right? The girls had fun and don't want to leave but it was just too far from our place.

~~~ One of my girlfriends is leaving for New Zealand. Really saddened by this but life goes on, things change, circumstances get better. It's just something to take note that changes can be good. I will surely miss her. We've been friends for almost 10 years now. She's one of the best!

She's Back!

2009-04-08T15:00:00.004+08:00

The past 4 days were very hard for a mom like me. Though Bebi A is active throughout, I still wonder what's wrong, what happened. But hearing this just puts the orbit back into its place.

Bebi A : Ate A, I need to a lot of food. My tummy is very, very hungry!

Ok, my girl's definitely back!

Doctor, Doctor, my daughter's sick

2009-04-06T22:35:00.003+08:00

Bebi A started throwing up while we were playing late Saturday night. Then, around 4AM Sunday morning, she threw up again. We decided not to go to church in the morning to calm Bebi A's tummy. All day long she has been complaining to me that her tummy's painful. Poor girl! She couldn't eat much.

So, at 530PM, we went to church. She was so active inspite of the tummy ache. So, I thought maybe she was already ok. She fell asleep in church and woke up in the act of throwing up. Pre who were carrying her literally showered with vomit and the family at the back of our pew were also hit. Kakahiya so we just offered them our wet tissue. And, my whole pack of wet tissue were spent cleaning up. I feel blessed because there was one good soul who came and gave me her plastic bag. She's an angel.

So, despite our "fragrance", we went directly to the GP and has Bebi A checked out. She was still hyper, you wouldn't think she's sick. And, I thank God for that.

We gave her porridge with a bit of soy sauce. She loves soy sauce. Hehe. That's the only way she'd eat the bland porridge.

She slept early, and about an hour after, she was having chills. I was getting scared so we kept her warm. She threw up once more but after that she was able to sleep peacefully.

I took child care leave today to take care of her. I guess she felt better because she was already asking me for donut, fruit loops, milk and kept asking me why I am depriving her of food. Haha. She's back! Thank you, Lord!

Sweet

2009-04-01T10:24:00.004+08:00

Last night was totally blah that turned into something sweet. Those little moments makes my heart skip a bit.

I was supposed to have a web meeting at 10pm Singapore time (so that's around 9am in Austin and if I remember correctly, 4pm in Hungary) so it was a bummer waiting up for it especially when you're nursing a two-day headache (yes, I sleep and wake up with a headache for 3 days now) and I am having my itchy skin episode that turned to fear coz my mind is working overtime again and I was thinking if this could be HFMD hahaha (symptoms : headche, rashes, etc.) Ok ok, I know I am just overreacting. (Bebi A's school had an outbreak so that was on my mind)

I couldn't take my headache anymore so I quickly sent an email to my boss that I will not be able to make it. I hate doing that coz I don't want to seem irresponsible. But, really, the headache was just pulling me to bed. I got ready for bed at 8pm and lie down, setting my alarm for 950pm to catch my meeting. Anyway... (my thoughts are flying from one topic to another --- blame it on the headache --- and yes, I still have it) there was a quick email to the team which I received from my BB with subject : Team Meeting Cancelled ~~~~ my boss was at home waiting for his floor to be replaced or something so he took the opportunity that I couldn't make it. "Blame it on the SG gal, not me ~~~ I can be at the team meeting even if I am waiting for my flooring guys"! Wahahaha... But, really, I am just thankful! My boss was kinda sweet about it coz after that cancellation email, he sent me another email asking me if family and I are all ok. Sweet!

And, the icing on the cake last night ~~~ since my team meeting was cancelled... Kept telling my girls to lie down and sleep. But, Bebi A kept on singing with matching action. And, she's singing a song in Chinese. Over and over. Then, not to be outdone, Ate sang his school song. Riot, right! Then, suddenly, Bebi A asked, "Mommy, can I kiss you?" ~~~ Whoa, where did that come from? And who am I to say no? Bebi A kissed me tenderly on the lips then we embraced. Sweet!

It's One Of Those Days

2009-03-31T17:30:00.003+08:00

This morning, Bebi A woke me up and asked me to pick her up at school (nawili ang bruhaha, sinundo ko kasi nung Friday). I told her that I can't since I will be at work.

That got me into thinking again. I know it's not yet time. We have bills to pay, families to support. But, I would like to stay at home and take care of the girls (and maybe scrap hehehe).

But, as I have said (convincing myself), it's the not the right time yet.

When will be the right time?

Scent of a Man

2009-03-27T17:13:00.002+08:00

Between the two of us, Pre can finish a whole bottle of perfume in 2-3 months. The thing with my hubby is, it's hard to select the scent that he wants. So, it's either I give him a repeat or buy something that I feel would suit him then pray very hard that he will be ok with it. The last perfume I gave him, Armani's Attitude, which was my gift on our anniversary was sweetish for his taste. And, I don't think there will be repeat of that in the near and far future.

I find Attitude to be very soothing yet manly. I don't like something that would empower. But, then, I believe it's still how the perfume actually blends with your skin. And, that's how Pre smells it, sweet for his skin. Haha. He's still using it though so I am happy that it didn't go to waste.

But, the next time I decide to buy another perfume forhim, I will try to look for a soothing scent that will be more to his taste, compare it to his old perfumes like Tommy Hillfiger, Polo Sport, Cool Water, etc. Or, maybe I should check out the perfume blog before I trek to the mall.

Sumbungera!

2009-03-25T16:07:00.004+08:00

This morning, Ate A went to Bebi A's school to pay for the 2nd term's fees. (Grrr... Tama ba ang mahal?) She met up with Bebi A's teacher and because she cares so much of her peborit alaga, she asked "How's Bebi A? Is she still crying at school?"

The teacher said no and that she's doing well. BUT, of all BUTS, Bebi A complains a lot. Primadonna ang hija! The teacher said that Bebi A will tell her little things like when her classmate walks fast. Mwahahahaha. Sumbungera! Hahaha. So, the teacher asked Ate A if Bebi A is like that at home.

Ate A, of course, defended her peborit's honor. "Of course not". Ang taray! Hahaha.

The point is, Bebi A is sumbungera. She's becoming a bratty. It's time for Ursula to put that trait inside the locket!

Math Matters

2009-03-23T14:38:00.004+08:00

Dawter T called me up and excitedly told me that she's the highest in Math for term 1. So, I thought it was for their exam in Ordinal numbers. "Mommy, Mrs. T said, I am the highest in my tests and in my worksheets. I am 100 %!"

Ok, ok, it's our first year in Primary so I am still a bit confused with the grading system. Then, she said, my English is good, but it's not like Math! That got me more confused!

But still, I owe her a trip to Night Safari! Hehehe.

***

I got home and found Dawter T's assessment folder. And lo and behold, it's true! I am very proud of my chicka! Hehehe (And Pre was even more than proud, for him, only Math matters hahaha)

Creativity

2009-03-20T17:26:00.001+08:00

Dawter T called me up and told me that Bebi A tore her art and made a monster out of the girl in the picture. I know that it's not being mean. Bebi A doesn't have a mean bone in her body. She just don't understand.

I talked to Bebi A. Asked her to kiss and make up with her Ate, She did. Ate A told me that she went up to Dawter T and kissed her, then asked "Is this better, Ate?" Awwww...

Dawter T's "smashed" art was one of her best. I was really impresed. If only I have taken a picture of it this morning. It was really beautiful. It was a portrait of a girl, by the way. I hope that Dawter T can still replicate it.

I know that not all kids are alike. And, my daughters have their own endearing qualities. One's art is different from the other. Dawter T has the potential (not because I'm her mom, ok ok, it maybe because I'm her mom hahaha) and Bebi A's, well, let's just say abstract. Hehe.

On School Vacation

2009-03-18T13:35:00.003+08:00

The two girls are on one week school vacation. They're lazing around, sleeping and waking up late, watching wayyyy too much tv, playing wayyyy too much... I guess they're enjoying life and I am sooooo jealous hehehe So, I am making them study! Haha... The mean mom! No wonder Bebi A calls me Ursula!

Mumblings

2009-03-13T09:35:00.003+08:00

Starting our day at 6:20AM (I have to set it that way to give my slowpoke of a daughter 10 more minutes in bed) is no joke for me. Once upon a time, I used to be able to wake up early, it's more than a decade now. I cram to be able to able ride along with my dad to save tranpo fare (and later on splurge it on movie tickets or junk foods hehehe).

A bit nostalgic these days. A lot's changing in our lives and in our friends' lives. Sometimes I couldn't keep track anymore. I don't know if I'm doing a good job with the girls, sometimes I feel that I don't and it makes me think more. Gone were the days when you threaten kids and they will follow you. I don't think it will work now. Haha. When I was young, one look from my mommy was enough for me to start sweeping the floor or help with the dishes. Oh well. But, I miss those days. I miss my daddy and mommy. I wish things were still the same.

My husband's been bugging me to go home. And I keep saying no. It's hard not to go to work these days. Nothing's certain. Though I will be taking my compulsary leave on June then be working from home the week after that. Why? Ate A's going home for vacation for 3 weeks. My small prob now is that I still need someone to look after the girls for the third week that Ate A's not here. My boss didn't approve my request to work from home for 2 weeks, I guess it's too much. Maybe I can ask him if I can bring my girls to work? Haha.

Happy weekend!

Sunday Afternoon

2009-03-08T20:09:00.003+08:00

We've had an adventure this afternoon. We ate at Pizza Hut and was very disappointed that they forgot to bring out our pizza. It should have come sooner but they made a mistake of bringing out thin crust instead of pizza hut. Pre had to ask the crew about it and only then did they informed us that the pizza was still 5 minutes away, and they were giving us some fried chicken for our wait. I mean, hello? We've waited a long time and it was not our fault and you only thought of the chicken after my husband marched in to your area to ask! We're not difficult customers. We're just hungry hehehe...

Bad thing turned to good. The manager was Filipina and after Pre told her about our case, she said that Pizza Hut decided that we don't need to pay for what they have served. Fair enough. But, I don't think I will be coming back anytime soon. So sad.

To cap our day, took some photos of the girls.

Ate too conscious of her teeth.

Bebi A, loving her yellow balloon.

Just Lazy

2009-03-02T18:28:00.003+08:00

I have been lazy in updating my blogs lately. Been busy at home, at work and at play. Wish I can spend some time just sleeping and thinking of nothing. Oh well. Be thankful.

Iskul Bukol

2009-02-12T06:58:00.007+08:00

Before, I always hear from other parents that Primary school is tough, and it was! Dawter T seemed to have adapted well. Only the mommy seemed anxious everytime. I always tell friends that I want to cultivate a good study habit for Dawter T who is more into tv and games than studying her day's lessons.

I know I'm tough sometimes. And, there were days that Dawter T seemed realllly tired of my constant reminders. Bags and diary has to be checked everyday. There's spelling weekly! OMG! And, since Dawter T likes to stay up late, it's hard to wake her up everyday.

She's almost on her 6th week. She's on the Fusion Dance (hopefully, she'll master a bit of grace hehehe), she and her group in school seemed to be like haughty upper east siders (ok, enough Gossip Girls!) where they're friends one moment, enemies the next hehehe but they're great kids, I always hear how they're first or how they one in class games.

She loves Math and English. It's still tough studying Chinese. She has tutor and been asked to attend remedial classes, which she almost missed the first time coz she went home when she couldn't find her Chinese teacher. Oh well, good thing Sister C was at home then so I asked Ate A to bring her back to school.

They went to the zoo for their first field trip.

And, yesterday, she got an award. Hihi! Proud Mommy moment! She said she went up the stage to accept "Courtesy Pupil award"! How cool is that! She said she didn't know what to do until her Form teacher asked her to stand up.

Sunshine

2009-02-03T20:30:00.003+08:00

So, we got the two girls another pet. Dawter T has been asking me everyday about it and to stop her, I gave in.

We are now proud parents of Sunshine the Hamster. It is such an emotional investment to have a pet. I was never an owner because I'm lazy and I don't want to get attached. But, seeing the two girls last Sunday squealing with delight was worth it.

I call the hamster, San Tsai to tease Dawter T. Bebi A calls it Sun since she's still "bulol".

Gong Xi Fa Cai

2009-01-23T10:21:00.002+08:00

So excited for the coming Chinese New Year, not because we're celebrating it but because there's no work this coming Monday and Tuesday. Time to relax at home with the family. Here's Bebi A this morning on her way to school. She was so excited today that she woke up as soon as she heard her Daddy's alarm, she ate breakfast today and was so so excited to wear this Chinese costume. This is a hand me down from Dawter T.

Pre-School Blues

2009-01-15T07:05:00.004+08:00

Bebi A has been sneezing a lot last night. I had a hunch that she has caught a bug. I was not able to sleep well last night as I constantly check if she's feverish. She was not! But, she has been breathing through her mouth so that was not a good sign. Her voice sounded different today when she woke up and does not want to go to school again. I guess her system is not used to waking up early. Lately, she's not even eating breakfast as she doesn't have appetite. I feel really bad about this and even thought of asking the school if she can go to the afternoon class.

I should know that being in school, surrounded by a number of kids. She will be more prone to sickness now, just like Dawter T when she started Nursery. With Dawter T, I was unprepared. I learned my lesson though when Dawter T kept on falling sick. Her colds and cough would go on for weeks. That's why I think every parent should know how to cope with pre-school illnesses. Not just for their own kids, but also for other kids. It would help preventing a cold or a flu outbreak.

One thing I am really thankful for is that the Singapore Pre-Schools takes a very proactive approach with any illness or virus outbreak. Singapore pre-schools last year has shown a number of Dengue and foot and mouth disease cases. And, what the school did was to take the students' temperature every morning. If the student has fever, the student will be sent home. They also gave out letters to advise parents not to let their child come to school if they are sick. I feel that it is very good that the parents and the "second parents", the school work hand in hand in dealing with these matters.

No More Tears

2009-01-13T13:49:00.002+08:00

Today was THE DAY. No more tears for Bebi A. She was just too excited to take her school bus. She even told her bus mate I that she doesn't want to miss the bus, oh ha!

Could it be because of the wonder of seat belt? Ate A was telling me that Bebi A gushed about bus' seat belt. She must have been fascinated by it. And, taking the school bus the next day made her excited to see it again.

Kids. They live for the simplest things.

Laughter Is The Best Medicine

2009-01-12T17:43:00.001+08:00

Bebi A : Why did the strawberry eat the banana?

Daddy : Why?

Bebi A : Because it's hungry!

Sunday Afternoon

2009-01-12T14:46:00.002+08:00

Weekend

2009-01-09T17:49:00.002+08:00

Even though I was off for 2 days, I couldn't helped but wish for the weekend to come. Weekend means a few hours of me time --- time to scrap. I make it a point to scrap. Just to free my mind from my everyday worries which are piling up these past few weeks. But, now I choose not to worry but I will still scrap. Hehe. Life goes on.

Bebi A cried in my arms this morning when I brought her to the school bus. When the bus moved, she was still calling me and it broke my heart to let her go like that. But, when she came back, she was so happy. She has a lot of stories to tell. Now, we think she's just not used to waking up early. Haha. Poor girl. A few nights back, she told me not to wake her when the sun is still not up! Funny!

Dawter T is doing ok though I feel tense whenever she comes home from school. I always ask if she has Chinese homework. Haha. That's my worst fear everyday. Ok, let's inset here ---> I choose not to worry. She has Chinese tuition every Wednesday. The tutor is quite good but doesn't speak English. She always has an interpreter when she calls us. I think that's fine. I want her to talk to Dawter T in Chinese so that it will be easier for her. But, 1.5 hours a week and n number of hours of Chinese at school will still be challenging for Dawter T. So, one of my goals is to study Chinese. Haha. (My officemate already doubtful and laughing at me)

Anyway, I hope everybody will have a great weekend! I'm off to Dawter T's school tomorrow to study Chinese and a dental appointment at night. Busy weekend!

The Tear Ducts Have Finally Dried!

2009-01-08T13:07:00.001+08:00

All morning, I couldn't concentrate on what I was doing because of Bebi A. Because she cried so much yesterday, she threw up at school. There was a bit of an improvement yesterday because she seemed happy when she told us about the star (suhol) she got from teacher and the friends she made at school. We thought she'd be excited today.

But, that's not the case. This morning, she cried when she took the bus.

I kept on looking at the time. I received sms from Ate A that my little girl arrived home happy and boasted that she didn't cry at school! Hallelujiah! Hehehe. I am one happy mom!

I wonder what stories she will tell me when I arrive home tonight.

How Do You Stop Time?

2009-01-07T12:07:00.001+08:00

The Saga Continues

2009-01-07T09:47:00.001+08:00

So, the crying continued yesterday. I tried to exercise tough love at school. I didn't go to her when she was crying and almost wailing. But, the last few minutes, my soft heart crumbled and I showed my face to her. She cried, "Mommy, come!" She was really heartbroken because she ignored the indoor playground, she didn't play with the ball, slide and the house. She wouldn't budge from the seat near the piano.

But, one thing holds true, she has a healthy appetite! Haha. Because she gobbled her cheeze sandwich even though tears were rolling down her cheeks. And she had the gall to tell Ate A that she finished eating first! Mwahahaha.

Bebi A is so funny.

2008's memories

2009-01-05T19:13:00.004+08:00

Until now, I couldn't come up with my 2009 resolutions sans stating the obvious hehehe 2008 has been a great year for us and I wanted to hold on to that...

Family Matters.

We've been blessed with a home we can call our own. No more landlord battles. And, we wouldn't feel like crying every month when we're paying our over priced rent. We're all happy with the new place. It took some getting used to but we're very comfortable now.

We found good schools for both Dawter T and Bebi A. Dawter T is starting Primary school while Bebi A's stepping into Nursery. They are both going to Catholic schools.

Papa and Mama came to Singapore to help us out with Dawter T. We feel blessed that the two girls were able to spend time with them.

Tita E and Tito B came with their children and spent a week touring around Singapore. Those were one of the best weeks of my 2008.

Work.

Pre is still with the "bus" company. Hehe. Though commuting from our new place to his office takes a long time, he's braving it out every morning as he wakes up at 6 and comes home before 8pm.

I changed jobs again mid-year. Seems to me that I've been doing this for the past 3 years. The new company has been very good to me. It opened a lot of opportunities and also met really nice people. Hopefully, I get to stay longer this time despite that the On-Call phone is giving me sleepless nights when the US team goes to work. *wink*

First Day in Nursery

2009-01-05T18:55:00.003+08:00

Bebi A sporting her Dora hair-do courtesy of Daddy.

"I don't want to go back to school!!!"

She said it's because of the boy crying for his mama. So, she cried because she wants me near her.

She cried because the teachers didn't help her wash her hands. Ok, that sounded bratty hahaha but I guess she's lost and doesn't know what to do.

She cried when they were about to pray for grace. It's probably because she's too hungry and couldn't wait. She wolfed down the wafer biscuit and wanted to ask for more. Haha.

She cried because she wanted to ride the bus with me. She wanted to go home badly. She said she's very sleepy and tired at school.

At home, she said, she's no longer tired.

It'll be another day tomorrow. I am thinking of not going with her. My presence may not be good and she will just look and ask for me.

First Day in Primary School

2009-01-02T18:11:00.000+08:00

Dawter T started her school last January 2. Yes, right after New Year! I turned off my alarm without getting up, my mind muddled from sleep. If Ate A didn't wake us up, Dawter T would have missed it! Hahaha

We then rushed her to dress up and eat. Pre checked how heavy her bag is. If you've seen Dawter T lately, she's all bones now and we're quite concerned if she will be able to carry her bag all the way to her classroom.

We waited for the bus and good thing that there were some neighbors that were waiting for the same school bus. You can see excited mums and dads waiting, anticipating the dreaded first day at Primary school.

We stressed to Dawter T how different her school life this year compared to her Pre-school years. She cannot take it lightly. I think I am more nervous than she is. We can teach her in English and Math but Chinese is a different matter. Pre told me not to worry, that things will work out for her.

We met some nice Filipino parents whom I exchanged phone numbers with. There was another mom there whose daughter has the same name as Dawter T. Incidentally, the girls are classmates and played with each other during the orientation. And, I thought Dawter T's name is not common here in Singapore. Hehe.

We saw Dawter T during recess. She was with a P5 girl named A. The girl was very kind but Dawter T is fairly quiet around her. A brought Dawter T around and even helped her to buy her snacks. I opted not to bring food for her (aside from the fact that we woke up late!) so that she can get to experience buying from school. Not that I am teaching her to spend. I just want her to experience things and of course, I am hopeful that she will eat what she buys. As most of you know, she's quite a picky eater. She bought sausage bun and managed to finish in record time. I was so proud of her. She get to save S$1.20. Hehe.

When recess was finished, we went home and just waited for her arrival. She had a lot of stories but the frightening one is a spelling quiz (?) in Chinese on Monday. Hahaha.

Photo Finish

2008-12-30T10:45:00.003+08:00

I had this huge problem at work that I couldn't solve. It started on October after our mail server upgrade and we still couldn't solve it until today. Did everything I could, I know, I would. And, nothing seemed to work.

From the start, I wanted to tell my users that it's not the mail server which has problem. But, since I am a NKOTB, it's hard to be this blunt. My boss was not very happy and that was a thorn on my side. I am scared to lose my job. *smile*

The sun finally shone on us today. The problem was solved. Just a very simple tweak compared to what we did for the past months.

Thank you, Lord! Now, I can start the new year with a smile.

***

Today is tita E's birthday! Api Bertday!

By The Christmas Tree

2008-12-18T08:56:00.001+08:00

Barney And Friends (year 2)

2008-12-18T08:52:00.003+08:00

I was a bit excited for the girls when I saw the BPP (Bukit Panjang Plaza) hahaha have Barney shows for this festive season. Though they seldom watch Barney these days, seeing Barney in his purple Dino persona is something kids get really excited about. Living near the mall has surely it's pluses hehehe

Maalaala Ko Kaya

2008-12-15T08:10:00.003+08:00

Last Saturday night, we watched Maalaala Mo Kaya featuring Juday. We (ooops Sister C and Ate A) were making additional ribbons to hang on our Christmas tree.

Anyway, my girls cannot sleep if I'm not yet inside the room so they kept on going to the living room until Pre came from his basketball game and they caught 10-15 minutes of the show. We cried coz it talked about forgiveness, and family and Christmas.

Dawter T was quiet when she went inside the room. And, when we're already in bed, she kept on asking me about the show. I explained to her about it because I don't want her to think the mothers can just poison their children, grrrr, that's why I try not to make them watch those kind of things.

Later on, she still couldn't sleep, she asked, "why are all Filipino 'movies' sad?"

That made me laugh. So I told her, that the shows we watch here are limited but there's also happy shows. Awww...

December Started Late

2008-12-12T17:26:00.003+08:00

Or is it just me?

I am unprepared this year. I haven't even started my Christmas shopping yet. But, I am not in a hurry, hahaha.

The clincher is we haven't even put up the tree. Well, it's coming today. That at least is happening.

I am off to my company or should I say my department's Christmas party. I hope that it'll get the Christmas spirit to start bubbling inside me. I'm with Pre by the way. I wil have someone to talk to in case they start to talk in Mandarin. Haha. And, it's buffet, enough said! Haha.

Oh work, oh work! Wish all my problems at work will be solved soon so I can look forward to Christmas.

One happy thing happened today. I won! I won at Toto! For the overwhelming prize of 20SGD! Hahaha. At least...

A Parent's Fear

2008-11-26T11:25:00.002+08:00

Came home last night and saw Bebi A at the door. She greeted me and I asked her to bring my lunch box to the kitchen.

"Mommy, I'm tired."

What? Hahaha. I tried not to laugh.

Later that night, Pre asked Bebi A to scratch his back.

"Daddy, I'm busy."

Mind of a fickle

Great Expectations

Dalagita

Bebi A Is No Longer A Bebi

Claim And Believe

What's Ahead?

Good Friday

Getting Ready

Blink Of An Eye

Life Is Good

Change Is Good

A Very Long Time

Day 5 : Jump

Day 1 : Choose To Be Happy

Countdown

Dear Dawter T

Hey July!

Hey June!

Suddenly

Peaches

Cube

Fruit Of The Week

Happy Mother's Day!

Give Up

What We Were Up To

What Am I Afraid Of?

Labor Pains

Award in Chinese

Tweet

Reading

Woman With Little Faith

Cocky

She Says The Darnest Things

Back To School

8 Years

It's Christmas Time

Cousins

A Month Ago

Musings

Little Things

Day 2

Day 1

The Night Before

I Am SOOO Excited

This Little Piggy

The Journey

The Zoo

Wake Up

The Gift

Kikay at 4

I Tried To Let IT Pass

H1N1 Nightmare

A Good System

Celebrating Daddy

The Introvert and The Cheeky

Let Her Relax

She's OK... Basically, She's OK...

Results : Passed

Take Me Out Of The Dark

Stressful

It's Getting Closer

When Your Daughters Are Growing Up

Why Am I a Happy Mom?

Please Don't Remove This Cat, It's Mine!

Arghhhh Neighbors!

Crazy

Little Women

My Old Job

Happy Easter!

She's Back!

Doctor, Doctor, my daughter's sick

Sweet

It's One Of Those Days

Scent of a Man

Sumbungera!

Math Matters

Creativity

On School Vacation

Mumblings

Sunday Afternoon