lucky toe

Weekend with family and friends (Mommy and Me Mondays #19)

2011-08-23T06:47:00.000-07:00

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

It great to realize that from just being office mates, we are able to deepen the relationship and become friends, not just us, but also our families - our children too.

Maia flashing her smile

Leon fooling around with a dried fruit
that looks like a poop :)

Sharing with you one weekend spend with family and friends. It was just for a few hours on a Sunday afternoon but we definitely had fun. What made it more enjoyable was seeing our children having the same fun with each other.

playing with children brings back our younger years

Leon trying to fly a kite

The enjoyment of all led us to deciding to do the same activity at least once a month and invite more office mates and their families to join.

Maia wanting to play more with
her new found friends

Over crepes and smoothies (MYM #21, Blue Monday #7)

2011-08-21T16:36:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since my last post and I'm back sharing some yellows and blues ;)

We've met with a friend, Vanessa, who was on a visit from the US, t'was a quick meet. We were supposed to have dinner with her but we came in late, in time though for dessert and more chit chat.

I ordered for fresh mango shake, for me that was enough. I'm trying to go on a less sweets and low carbo diet until I reach my desired weight. My husband and I are into running these days and maintaining an ideal weight is necessary for agility.

But then, Leon, our 4-year old carbo-loading son was with us. Aware of his appetite, we allowed him to order what he wanted...mango crepe and strawberry flavored smoothie.

fresh mango crepe

just can't help smiling when the camera's on him,
even when there's food inside

Just as he was about to take in the last piece of the crepe, our friend Anthony's order was being served. Seeing the ice cream and cherry toppings, Leon totally forgot about his crepe and flashed his smile to TIto Ants. The smile that translate into "can I have some please."
Leon, though a good eater, isn't much on sweets, he took only a few servings of the ice cream and a few pieces of cherries.

While we were still chatting with friends, we allowed Leon to play around the decorative light balls near our table, to let go of the energy he just took in.

At the grounds of UP-Ayala Technohub,
playing around with the lighted balls and
the uneven benches

Urinary Tract Infection

2011-08-21T00:11:00.000-07:00

Caring for our kids shouldn't be half baked. I learned it the hard way. I may have all sorts of reasons but it doesn't eliminate the fact that our little Maia suffered from Urinary Tract Infection, commonly known as UTI.

While my husband and I attend to our 8 to 5, 5-days-a-week work, our children are left with their nannies. Both nannies are good in caring for our children, making sure all our instructions are noted and done as ordered.

In Maia's case, we were too dependent on using disposable diapers for her wetting. Most often than not, we change the diaper when it's already soaked up with urine or when she pooped. Since Maia can't talk well yet and cannot express what's up with her, we often detect a poop only when it's smelly.

We immediately wash her up, but then, after getting infected and hospitalized for 5 days, and after reading articles about urinary tract infection, it was only then that I fully realized what had happened to our deary.

The culprit, a bacteria Escherichia coli, better known as E. coli. These bacteria normally thrive in bowels and around the anus. Urinating flushes out the bacteria, depending on the quantity though and once it reaches the bladder, urinating cannot stop the spreading already, thus infection occurs.

This unfortunate phenomenon happened to Maia. I dread the day when I rushed her to the emergency room. Together with her nanny, we were trying to keep her conscious. Although her temperature appears normal, she was having chills, her lips and nails were turning dark - bluish black. I had the greatest fear of my life that time. I tried to keep calm and prayed and prayed to God to spare my dear Maia. The previous day though, she had fever and we managed to bring it down by giving her paracetamol and constant sponge bath.

Upon reaching the hospital, the doctor told us that she was about to have high fever. He instructed us to do a sponge bath on Maia and alas, her temperature soared up. The heat didn't come out of her body thus she was having the chills. A while after, the nurse collected blood sample from Maia and told me to collect a urine for another laboratory procedure.

Hours after, the result came out, E. coli accumulation on her urine was way too high. We were expecting for prescription medicine, instead the doctor told us that Maia has to be admitted. Due to the high occurrence of the bacteria, home caring will not be enough to eliminate the bacteria from her. They had to insert dextrose on her and through it the antibiotic.

Good thing, Maia's system is strong that it went well in dispelling the bacteria out of her body. I am very much thankful to the Lord, that aside from the medicine, our strong faith and prayers to God helped a lot in healing our princess.

Since then, we've stopped using disposable diapers during the day, instead, with the help of Maia's nanny, we are training her to use the potty this early and when she's wet, replace her undies immediately. Also, Maia seems to have learned from her experience too. Whenever she pees, talking her to wash and change her undies has been easy.

Lessons learned....sometimes, we have to maintain old traditions and practices versus new technologies, we shouldn't be too dependent on them. In other words, cloth diapers are still better than disposable ones.

S if for Summer (MYM #20; Mommy & Me Monday #18; Blue Monday #6; Ruby Tuesday #17 Watery Wednesday #6; ABC Wednesday Round 8)

2011-05-25T06:36:00.001-07:00

S is for SUMMER.

What's the best way to spend Summer? But of course a summer outing with family and friends in the beach!!!

Summer here in the Philippines won't be that complete if we don't go swimming, whe
ther is in a beach or a swimming pool. Getting ourselves tanned under the tropical heat is a must during this season.

That's just what we did last May 23-24, 2011. Haribon Foundation had our summer outing at the Palm Beach Resort in Brgy. Hugom, San Juan, Batangas. It wasn't just a company outing, we encourage our employees to bring along family members so that it'll be grand family get-together - Haribon's 2011 R & R (rest and recreation).

4:30 am of May 23 was our assembly time, we left at exactly 6:00 am. Breakfast was pre-ordered thus, we had it while in the bus on our way to Palm Beach. With a few stop overs to pick-up some more staff along the way and to answer nature's call. We arrived at the resort just on time, 9:00 am to be exact. Palm Beach in San Juan, Batangas is a shy 3-4 hour drive from Quezon City depending on the traffic along South Super Highway. But since it was a Monday, we were against the traffic as traffic normally heads towards Metro Manila and not the other way around.

It was exciting for me and my husband M because it's kinda our first to go summer outing in a beach with our children Leon and Maia. Leon at 4 was already excited about going to the beach. Prior to May 23, he counted the number of sleeps he had to go before the grand summer outing. He became more excited when we bought him a new pair of trunks and pail and shovel set for his sand castle-making and when his godmother bought him and Maia floaters.

Just as when we alighted from the bus that transported us to the resort, Leon became more ecstatic. He can't contain himself and insisted on his Dad to bring him to the shoreline. Once in the sand he took off his footwear and since then until we went home he walked barefooted. Maia on the other hand was reserved when we arrived the place, but once she experienced the water and while afloat her life-saver, it became quite difficult to take her out of it.

Leon. trying out his water gun

From 9 am until a little past 1 pm we stayed in the Cabanas as check in time was only at 1 pm. It was free time for us, meaning we can do whatever we want. Some staff gathered in different Cabanas to chit-chat with one another and to voice out their expectations on our so called "team-building activity" and the rumbled room assignments while others started to enjoy the beach. While we were having our lunch, other members of the organizing committee went to post the room assignments on their respective rooms as well placed our surprise R&R gift on the beds ...a personalized bag tag.

my personalized Haribon 2011 R&R bagtag

At 4 pm, we organized the group for the "team-building activities" we prepared for us to be able to demonstrate working as a team, it turned out to be more fun than expected though. All participated together with the family members that came along. We divided the group into 4 teams - Red, Blue, Green and Yellow. I belong to the Green team, though in some games, I did not participate so as not to be bias because I'm part of the organizing committee. In spite of the competition, we showed camaraderie not only to our team mates but also to our opponents, thus making the whole activity fun.

After the mini team-building activity, most of us, including and specially the children, changed to our swimsuits to have more fun in the beach, we eventually transferred to the infinity pool when dusk came. Most of the ladies stayed at the jacuzzi while some of the men stayed in the pool. The rest started with the "tagayan" (toast or shot) of the lambanog (coconut wine) we brought from Gen. Nakar, Quezon.

Dinner was served from 7 pm until 9 pm, afterwards, the drinking session became full-blast until past midnight (I guess...). Not that I went drunk, I was with the kids, therefore no drinking, it's just that the group stayed in the Cabana in front of the room we were in, thus I heard the laughter and the meaningful conversations until I dozed off to sleep.

We woke up early the next day to have more of the swimming and sun-bathing. Although, no matter how long I stay under the sun, I don't get enough of the sunburn that I want :( At about 11 am we checked out of Palm Beach, had lunch at the Dish Restaurant and Bar in Lipa City then headed back to Quezon City.

Haribon's R&R 2011 was definitely a blast. Making it more meaningful are the acknowledgments we get from most of the staff for a job well done, making this year's summer outing one of the best in Haribon's history.

Summer outing is a great family-bonding activity
be it spent on the beach or any other family getaway.

M & Me

Leon trying to build a castle or is it a volcano???

Maia savoring the moment

and

more family moments
and enjoying the serenity of the resort

siblings

snuggling in bed

My family and I are thankful for this opportunity of a summer outing and bonding moments not just of the Ponce family but of the Haribon family in general.

PS. Another thing to be thankful...although there was a threat of an incoming storm, our R&R was spared from it. Thank God!

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

Quiescent (ABC Wednesday Round 8)

2011-05-11T06:41:00.000-07:00

My Q contribution for ABC Wednesday Round 8 is QUIESCENT.
adj resting; still; tranquil

Taal Volcano on it's quiescent (tranquil) state

and

a quiescent (resting) child

Ocean Adventure (MYM#18, Mommy & Me Monday #17, Blue Monday #5, Watery Wednesday #5)

2011-05-09T06:55:00.000-07:00

It has always been our plan to bring the kids to Ocean Adventure in Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Olangapo City, Zambales. The plan wasn't immediate though because we wanted the kids to be big enough to enjoy and understand the facility. Maybe a good time for Leon, who's already 4 years old but too soon for Maia who just turned 1 this April.

@ the entrance of Ocean Adventure

As much as the idea of educating the children in trips such as visiting theme parks, we really can't turn down an offer of a good friend, one of Leon's godmother, Mithi. Leo, her boyfriend, who's turned out to be a friend, too, is working at Ocean Adventure as one of the veterinarian of Southeast Asia's only open-water marine park.

with Ninang Mithi at the entrance of Ocean Adventure Marine Park

Leo's invite through conversations with M (in one of the most recent gathering of friends) and through the insistence of Mithi, we've instantly decided to go to Ocean Adventure to spend the weekend at the park.

We left Quezon City a few hours after lunchtime last Saturday, fetched Mithi along the way and headed to Subic, Zambales. We arrived Ocean Adventure a few minutes before 6 in the evening. Since Ocean Adventure was already about to close, Leo ushered us towards Camayan Bar and Restaurant for us to have an early dinner, courtesy of our friend Mithi. We enjoyed the dinner while listening to the music by the Tribal group and a few fire dances by the members of the same group.

It was Leon's (and Maia, too) first time to experience a beach setting. Initially he was having o.c. moments with the sand getting into his crocs footwear but I grabbed the opportunity to allow him to experience walking on the sand barefoot. Although hesitant at first, he eventually loved the feel of the sand on his foot. He kept on asking us to go back to the beach to walk and play with the sand. It was a kill-joy for him when called it a day and headed to our accommodation.

The next day, all of us were too excited for the day's activity. At 9 in the morning, we were met by Mithi at the parking area of Ocean Adventure while Leo was waiting for us at the entrance area. Entrance took a while because of the queue of people but we were just on time for the 1st show, the Walk on the Wild Side.Here, the kids were able to see up close an owl, a bat, a sea eagle, a civet cat and a snake (this I dread :(...). At some point of the show, Leon was telling me not to be afraid of snakes...

at the entrance, a height measuring board

@ Eco theater for the Walk on the Wild Side show

2nd show was the Sea Lion Marine Patrol Show. Mithi who did not join us on the first show was already waiting for us here and saved a seats for a clear view of the sea lions. Leon was amazed with the antics of the sea creatures and was more excited of the last show which was the Dolphin Friends Show. 3rd show was The Adventures of Olongapo Jones show which showcased the trampoline acrobats. Leon had too much fun watching the 2 performers jump up and down the trampoline, such that he was as if experiencing the jumps that at some point, he muttered, "tama na" (stop please) as if he was the one that's tired of jumping on the trampoline.

Sea Lion Marine Patrol Show

Olongapo Jone with his sidekicks

enjoying the acrobatics done in the trampoline

The last show, the Dolphin Friends Show was the most awaited by all, young and old alike. It showcased the dolphins (of course) and the intelligent tricks and antics they can make. As in any encounter with these sea mammals, watching their smiling faces and being able to touch them is such an extraordinary experience. From afar though, Leon was fascinated with them but when our opportunity to come close to these cute sea creatures, Leon became a bit petrified, maybe he realized that up close, the dolphins were a bit big for him. Afterward though, he defensively said, he won't be afraid next time when he's a bit bigger already.

The dolphins, showing off their talents

Leon and Maia with Tito Leo

Though these animals should be in the wild, visiting such a theme parks educate us to be more careful with our actions especially on waste disposal and of taking care of nature.

We definitely had a great weekend and a happy and enjoyable mother's day for me as well.

Thanks very much to Leo and Mithi for the great treat not just for the kids but to me and M as well. Our family is very much grateful to have experienced Ocean Adventure this soon.

late lunch at Wimpy's

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

P for Pool (ABC Wednesday 8, Watery Wednesday #4)

2011-05-04T07:47:00.000-07:00

This is my first for ABC Wednesday Round 8 - first ever for ABC Wednesday!

P is for swimming POOL, which my children really loves. Both Leon and Maia likes dipping into the water to freshen up especially now it's summer here in the Philippines.

Leon's 1st birthday party was a swimming party, it was his first dip in a pool. He was afraid at first, maybe because it was cold but was able to get over it when he saw his cousins and friends enjoying the cold water.

Here at home with cousins in an inflatable swimming pool

At Amana Waterpark just this April, here at the kiddie pool with Daddy M
Maia, walking around the wave pool, on the shallow part though.

Leon with new found friends during Maxine's 4th birthday party.Just this 1st day of May, just before the wedding of our dear friends Don and Rina, Leon found some time to dip himself in the pool.

My Little Darlings (Blue Monday #4)

2011-05-04T07:14:00.000-07:00

I can't hardly explain moments such as this. Just looking at my little darlings brings me joy and happiness.

Casa San Pablo (Mommy & Me Mondays #16, MYM #17)

2011-04-25T04:28:00.000-07:00

I am honored to be the day coordinator on our couple friends wedding on May 1 at Casa San Pablo in San Pablo, Laguna. I am doing wedding coordination on the sides. I love weddings and I would always want the anybody's wedding especially those close to me will be as perfect as they planned it to be.

So to begin my task, I asked my hubby M if it was okay for us to visit Casa San Pablo for me to familiarize myself with the venue as well as for us to calculate the travel time. M, as usual is very much supportive in my endeavors. We brought along the kids as well for us to spend good time with them even while we do some work.While I was checking out the place and talking with the caretaker, M and the kids were having fun running around the wide compound, played at the mini playground equipped with seesaw and swing.Casa San Pablo is a family-run bed and breakfast business. It is part of the compound owned by the mother of Mr. Boots Alcantara. They are expanding their business and is offering the place as a venue for garden weddings. Casa San Pablo's ambiance gives you the homey feel. The chic and shabby pieces of furniture adds up to the cozy atmosphere it provides to its guests. Casa San Pablo is one place to be in just to spend a lazy day in a garden or to get away from the busy city life.After the ocular we made, I sent my bride-friend a SMS message telling her how perfect the place is for their wedding and I know so well how to make their wedding an Event as Planned ;)

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

Mommy Moments: Rainbow Colors

2011-04-23T05:56:00.000-07:00

I hope this post gets into Mommy Moments' Mr. Linky...was a bit busy attending to some household stuff and errands for a May wedding...

My share to this week's Rainbow Colors theme are...

Maia's Christening backdrop
and Leon's collection of crayons

Visita Iglesia 2011

2011-04-21T19:58:00.000-07:00

It has been a tradition for our family to do Visita Iglesia every Holy Thursday. We have been planning to go out-of-town but considering that the kids are still small for an anticipated hot long trip, we decided to do it here in Metro Manila. Anyway, looking at the list I got from the web, there are still a lot of Catholic Churches that we have not visited for Visited Iglesia.

We have done Quezon City, I believe more than twice, same with the City of Manila. Last year, we ventured Marikina City, Pasig and San Juan for our traditional Visita Iglesia.

This year, yesterday to be more precise, our itinerary included the cities of Mandaluyong and Makati. Although I've listed thirteen churches, a mix of Shrines, Parishes and Chapels, we were only able to visit 8 from the list because the kids were already tired and sleepy.

Our first stop was at St. Francis of Assisi Parish along Shaw Blvd. Yes, this is the church of Lourdes School of Mandaluyong. We said the 1st and 2nd stations of the cross here. We then proceeded to the Archdiocesan Shrine of The Diving Mercy along Maysilo Circle in Boni Ave., Mandaluyong. The 3rd and 4th stations of the cross were recited her. Next stop was at the San Felipe Neri Parish also along Boni Avenue in Mandaluyong. To our surprise this church was an old structure made of adobe materials. Here we prayed the 5th and 6th stations of the cross. Masses just started in these 3 churches when we visited and at San Felipe Neri, well along Boni Ave., statues of Saints, Mary and of Jesus Christ were being prepared for the procession, maybe after the mass or towards dusk.

At the entrance of St. Francis of Assisi Parish

behind us is San Felipe Neri Parish

On our way to The Divine Mercy Shrine though, we saw a church, we presumed a Catholic church, was not in my list. Going towards, Makati for our next church visit, my husband M, decided to pass by the church, anyway, it was along the way. It is a Catholic church, San Roque Parish, but when we tried to stop, the streets beside it were narrow and we can't seem to find the stations of the cross. We can't really get into the church to do our prayers because there was an on-going mass. M veered the vehicle towards Makati instead.

In Makati, our 4th stop was supposed to be at the Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which we assumed to be at the Guadalupe area. But we were wrong. Orense St., the address of the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe was on the other side of EDSA. Good thing though, that the 5th in our list, Nuestra Senora De Gracia Parish was just where we were at the moment. We mistook it to be the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, specially since the marker of the Monastery of Our Lady of Guadalupe is still visible in one of the buildings. Here we said the 7th and 8th stations of the cross. I still have to research about the origin of both churches. A boo-boo for us here :(

Nuestra Senora De Gracia Parish

an old church and monastery founded by
the Agustinian Order in 1601

From Nuestra Senora De Gracia exactly located at 7440 Bernardino St., Guadalupe Viejo, we plied through J.P. Rizal towards Bel-Air where St. Andrew The Apostle Parish is located. It's at the corner of N. Garcia and Neptune Sts., Bel-Air II right across Manila South Cemetery.
We only reflected on the 9th station here because of too much crowd. We arrived at the church just after the Blessed Sacrament was transferred for the night's vigil.

Our 6th stop was at the National Shrine of The Sacred Heart of Jesus in San Antonio Village. Here we reflected on the 10th, 11th and 12th stations of the cross. Just like at St. Andrew The Apostle Parish, we arrived after the Blessed Sacrament was transferred. A good timing because we were able to get inside the church for more fervent prayers. Though, we found the church quite small for a national shrine. Here though, Leon started to tell us that he tired already and wanted to go home. To pacify him, we bought him P20 worth of steamed peanuts.

He munch on it until we reached our 7th stop at the St. John Bosco Parish along A. Arnaiz Ave., cor Amorsolo St., were we reflected on the last 2 stations of the cross.The parish is within the compounds of the Don Bosco School in Makati. We offered a few more prayers then went off to the last church to be visited. But before we left, Leon asked for steamed corn this time, one of his comfort food, that was selling just were we parked the car.

The last church we visited was the St. Pio of Pietrelcina Chapel at the St. Pio Center along C5 Road in Libis, Quezon City. Since we were done with our station of the cross, we offered our personal prayers here. Just like the above 7 churches, it was our first time to visit St. Pio Chapel. Of all the churches that we went for visita iglesia, it was at St. Pio that we encountered traffic both of vehicles and humans.

St. Pio is quite known nowadays because of the numerous prayers granted through his intercession. No wonder why groups of people and individuals flock to the chapel be it during the Lenten season or on regular days. Note worthy also is the manner on how people go through the station of cross. Upon entering the garden/area where the stations were placed, organizers, hand over to the people a good size of a cross for them to carry throughout the stations. I believe, it is done for the people to go through Christ's ordeals during His time, on their reflections of the stations of the cross. Maybe we can try this next year, when the kids are big enough and more easy to handle.

Lenten season is the time for reflection of the life we lived. It can also be a good time to thank the Lord for enduring all the hardships just to save us all from our sins. It is the time to remind us of the life of Jesus and make it our inspiration to do good and be more like Him in our daily life, to proclaim His goodness and humility and His love for mankind.

Hope everyone is having a meaningful Lenten season that would lead to a glorious Easter this coming Sunday.

A Pool Party (MYM#16, Blue Monday#3, Ruby Tuesday#16, Watery Wednesday#3)

2011-04-17T17:51:00.000-07:00

Leon got an invite for a pool party yesterday. The birthday girl is Maxine, my officemate's daughter, she turned 4 too, this year. The party was a pool party in her grandaunt's residence in Quezon City.

Leon immediately dipped in the pool

Here playing with his new found friends - all girls :D

Max about to blow her fish candles,
she turned 4, looks like one of the fish went back to the pool lol!

We arrived a little past 2 in the afternoon and was greeted my officemate and her hubby and alas, upon seeing the pool, Leon can't wait to jump in. Although Maia wanted to play in the water, too, we did not let her swim instead we allowed her experience walking barefoot on the grass, looks like she enjoyed it as well. Maia walking barefoot

playing with the grass

Definitely a great way to spend a hot summer afternoon.

Maia's 1st & Leon's 4th Birthday Party @ Jollibee

2011-04-10T17:31:00.000-07:00

April 10 was the date we staged the joint birthday party of our children Leon and Maia at Jollibee Katipunan. Leon turned 4 on March 2 while Maia's already 1 year old last April 8.

Originally, it was only Maia's 1st birthday celebration, but knowing Leon, who wants to blow all the candles because for him, whoever's birthday is, it's his. In anticipation of the hassle that might happen, we instead made it a double celebration. Maia's 1st and Leon's 4th.

Leon in his Spider Man costume

Maia in her pretty pink dress

Almost all the invited guests were there except for a few godparents. The gathering were a mix of family, relatives and close friends. We arrived at the venue at exactly 5 in the afternoon, guests came in immediately after. At 5:30 the party host started the program by welcoming the guests and of course the birthday celebrators, Maia and Leon.
3 sets of games were played by kids and kids at heart, after which dinner was served. After dinner, a special number was presented by none other - Jollibee himself. And because Jollibee is one of Leon's favorite character, Leon joined the stage when it was Jollibee's time to perform. To our surprise, Leon danced along with Jollibee - Leon's got talent!

Wishes were said, and gifts and tokens were given to kiddie guests. At exactly 7 in the evening, the party came to close with faces of guest filled with enjoyment.

M and I are glad that we were able to give our children a simple yet fun filled party they deserve. And we thank God for giving us Leon and Maia and the joys they bring to our life.

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

Mommy Moments: Summer Plans

2011-04-07T17:31:00.001-07:00

April 1 marks the beginning of summer here in the Philippines, this is the season almost all are looking forward to aside from Christmas season. Young and old spends a great deal of time in planning for their summer.

This year, for our family, we've already went swimming at Amana Waterpark in Pandi, Bulacan last April 3 and it is just the beginning of a queue of activities in line for us and the kids specially.Next in line is the joint birthday party of our kids, Maia's 1st birthday and Leon's 4th. We had to make it a joint party in anticipation of Leon's dislike when he'll see that all of the attention is on Maia...we are still in the stage of explaining to him that we have our own birthdays and it's not all the time his. :D

The other plans are:

enrolling Leon to a Teakwondo class, for him to be able to release his overwhelming stored energies
scout for a Pre-School for Leon
Visita Iglesia, which is a tradition in the family
family outing, preferably in a beach
attend the wedding of our couple friends

So far these are our plans, we hope to accomplish most if not all.

How about you? come share your summer plans at Mommy Moments.

Happy Summer!

Family Outing @ Amana Waterpark in Bulacan (Mommy and Me Mondays #13, Mellow Yellow #12, Ruby Tuesday #13, Watery Wednesday)

2011-04-05T16:17:00.001-07:00

We just had a great time this past weekend! Since summer is officially here, what's the best way to welcome it? SWIMMING!!!Last Sunday, the company-family outing my husband was busy putting together came to reality. M was on top of everything just to make sure we will enjoy ourselves at the Amana Waterpark in Pandi, Bulacan, PI.As early as 5 in the morning, he was on his feet preparing the food we will be bringing not just for the family but for his office mates and their families as well. When I woke up at about 6 a.m. he was already cooking the pasta noodles and already set the turbo ready for me to lodge in the marinated chicken. While in between cooking, he made sure that everything else were all set.Right after everything was cooked, we went off for a fun-filled day ahead of us. Amana Waterpark in Pandi, Bulacan is a little over an hour drive from Quezon City via the newly constructed C6 road connecting Quezon City to the North Expressway.Leon who was too excited about the idea of swimming kept on asking us if we were already near. Maia on the other hand slept almost all throughout the trip.

Amana Waterpark is a nice place to spend for a family outing. Although they are still developing the resort, there are already 4 pools where you can dip in to cool off the summer heat. From the main entrance where you have to pay an entrance fee, you still have to drive through (or walk) a distance of about 500 meters to the entrance of the resort proper.

Entrance fees costs P250 or $5.75 for adults and P200 or $4.60 for kids under 4 feet. Babies are free of charge. Cottage rent ranges from P600.00 to P2,500 or $13.80 to $57.52 depending on your choice of cottage.

The resort's landscape is filled with life-size characters of the Justice League, Spider Man and Sand Man, Shrek's Ogre family, Lord of the Rings characters, Madagascar character animals, King Kong and Dragon Ball Z, to name a few. Definitely a fun-filled day for the kids who will not just enjoy the pools but also the surroundings.Once set in our cottage, Leon can't help but want to swim. Maia though was hesitant at first because of the many people she sees, but once wet, she enjoyed the water too. Leon loved the kiddie pool, he walked around the pool without any fear because the height of the pool and water was just right for him. The deepest area of the kiddie pool reaches only up to Leon's neck part. While Maia enjoyed the wave pool! Guided by either me, her dad or her yaya, she walks around the shallow part and when she sees the wave coming, she'll retract in a hurry to the surface, having fun running away from the waves.

Here are photos to show how great the day was for us...

Leon simply loved the water fountain/shower

@ the kiddie pool

behind us is the wave pool,
the biggest so far in the Philippines

@ the wave pool

@ the Ogre Village

with Iron Man

with the Thing

@ the Justice League marker
near the entrance of the waterpark

And since it's only the beginning of summer, I know there are still some activities in tow for the family to look forward to :D

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

Team Lucky Toe at the Globe Run4Home Run 2011 (Mommy and Me Mondays #12, Blue Monday #1 & Ruby Tuesday #12)

2011-03-27T16:09:00.000-07:00

Running as a race has become a craze in the Philippines. Check out running portals and you will find all weekends of the year already filled with so many race schedules.

It is such a great opportunity to run for a cause. Since we had our first experience of running for a race when we joined Haribon Foundation's Million Hectare Challenge last year, my husband and I were all set to join more run this year. What sets us apart though is that we run for a cause.

Haribon Foundation was one of the 4 organizations to benefit from Globe's Run4Home 2011.
As a beneficiary, we were given free race slots to represent our organization.

@ the Haribon booth before the race

Yesterday, March 27, Team Lucky Toe was fortunate to have the chance to run at Globe's Run4Home. Since there were still extra kits, I grabbed the chance to get one for my husband and for Leon.

M run the 5 kilometer distance while me and our son Leon did a combination of run-walk-carry-walk-run at the 3 kilometer distance. We were with my office mate Nikki and her daughter Maxine. Leon and Maxine are like cats and dogs when in the office, we were surprised though that even during the warming up, the two were like good friends, and was holding hands most of the time. lol!

with Maxine, fooling around during the warm up exercises

Something to be proud of Leon was that even when he was already too tired, but upon seeing the finish line, he was determined to cross it, running! Some 50 meters away, he started running again and was even more challenged when he heard people cheering for him while he was running. I ran behind him, cheering him as well until he crossed the finish line.

added attractions for the kids,
2 Star Ship Trooper runners (walkers)

past the 1K mark and still running...

As a mother, looking at his face lit up upon crossing the finish line was something I cannot describe. He stood gallantly at beyond the line because he knew what he has accomplished. For a 4 year old toddler, 3 kilometer is definitely a long way to go, and Leon conquered it!

Team Lucky Toe after the race at the Haribon Booth

more shots after the race

got the chance to meet up with some
high school friends who joined the run, too

Until such time that Maia joins us again, when she's a bit older, the three of us are looking forward for the next run which will be next weekend, April 2 at the Hyundai Accent Run.

Hope to see you there too!

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

Team Lucky Toe all set for Globe's Run4Home 2011

2011-03-25T07:42:00.000-07:00

I just posted some days ago about Globe's Run4Home 2011, Haribon Foundation being one of the 4 beneficiaries of the event.

Although we were not yet informed of the official count of registrants that chose Haribon as their beneficiary, I am already thankful to those who have registered. Regardless of whether they picked Haribon as their beneficiary, be it Habitat for Humanity, Virlaine Foundation or Gawad Kalinga, all provides homes and many will benefit from this up coming run. I heard though that Haribon Foundation comes in second in the most picked organization.

And to show our support, we at Haribon will run alongside with the participants. As an employee and a family member of Haribon Foundation, Team Lucky Toe is all set to run for our home - the forest - bringing back our forest, brings forth biodiversity.

M's 5K kit

while mine and Leon's are 3K
can't wait for Maia to grow a little bigger so that she can run with us as well.

Hope anyone is free this Sunday, come join the fun! Run for Home!!!

Mommy Moments: White

2011-03-24T17:19:00.000-07:00

White is such a pure color, it signifies cleanliness. That's why it's quite difficult to wear white considering our active lifestyle.

For the kids, most of their house clothes are dominated by the color white, basically for practical reason that it does not absorb too much heat especially in tropical countries such as ours.

Leon in his white Haribon shirt in front of a tank display at the Philippine Navy Compound along Roxas Blvd., Manila.

Maia clad in her white dress during her baptism in May 2010.
All of us in our white Haribon Million Hectare Challenge 2010 shirt.

Mommy and Me Mondays & Ruby Tuesday #11: Malling around

2011-03-22T06:36:00.000-07:00

After dinner in one of the malls in Quezon City.

Maia and I are waiting for Daddy and Leon who went around
to check out some toys and gadgets in the nearby stores.
Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

Globe Run 2011: Haribon Foundation as Beneficiary

2011-03-19T06:16:00.000-07:00

Haribon Foundation for the Conservation of Natural Resources, Inc. is one of the beneficiaries of Globe's Run for Home 2011. Together with Gawad Kalinga, Habitat for Humanity and Virlaine Foundation, registrants are required to choose among the four who will benefit from their run. Part of the registration fees goes to the chosen organization.

In behalf of Haribon Foundation, I am inviting running enthusiasts to join the run and choose us as your beneficiary. Why Haribon among the other organizations? Just like the three other organizations that provides home for the homeless and less fortunate people, Haribon Foundation's cause provides home not only to people but to biodiversity as well. Forest restoration goes beyond tree planting and carbon sequestration. Forest restoration brings back life not just to animals living and benefiting from it but also to people directly living within the forest areas and to us urban dwellers.

Aside from giving shelter, it provides, food, water, clothing and medicine. It also supports culture and tradition.

On March 27, 2011 at the Bonifacio Global City, join Globe's Run4Home, together we can make a difference, let us restore our forest, run for our Home, our Forest!

Mommy Moments: Purple

2011-03-17T16:54:00.001-07:00

This week's color theme is PURPLE and here's my share to

It was easy for my to look for a photo of Maia in purple. Her Lola Baby's 2011 Christmas gift to her was a pair of purple blouse and leggings. Here she's wearing the ensemble during Alex Gabriel's Christening.
While it took me a while to look for a photo of Leon, here's the closest that I've got :D He is playing with Maia's puzzle mat...

Takbo para sa Karunungan (MYM#10 & Mommy and Me Mondays #10)

2011-03-13T17:03:00.000-07:00

On March 13, Sunday, we joined a Takbo para sa Karunungan at the Quirino Grandstand. This was organized by DZMM the radio arm of ABS-CBN. The event also marked their 25th anniversary, thus the proceeds of the run will provide for the schooling of 25 scholars.
All the while I thought it would only be and M who will be joining the run. Although Joel, his officemate was there too. M actually learned about the run through Joel. But M wanted to bring along the kids but I said we can only bring Leon.

We took off at 3:45 am to be able to reach Quirino Grandstand before 5:00 am for the on-site registration. It was only me and M who registered, fee was at P300.00 or about $7.3. Inclusive of the fee is the race bib, singlet and map.
During the small program and warm up exercises, we were already wearing our singlets, Leon asked for his. Oh no! I immediately told him, I was wearing his. (I got a small sized singlet which was really small - yey! I fit it). He just nodded, but when we were about to run, he insisted to wear the singlet. I had no choice but to take it off and had him wear it.
We ran the 3 kilometer distance. I was able to do the course with more run than walk, 70% run 30% walk. While father and son mostly did the walking. Leon said when he reached the finish line, "I got tired walking but wasn't tired at all from running" - cute!

Father and son crossing the finish line

The run was generally okay, there was the 25 kilometer distance to which a Kenyan runner got the 1st spot. 10 and 5 kilometers were also available at it is in most of the runs here in the Philippines. Added attractions were the local celebrities who were there to support the cause. Spotted were Karyll who ran the 5k distance and Winnie Cordero who joined the 3k participants. The former vice president Noli de Castro was there, ran the 5k too, same and the ever gorgeous Cory Quirino.

with Winnie Cordero, one of the news anchor of DZMM

M, Leon and Joel with the Karyll before the run

We went home all tired but was feeling great about being able to help bring children to school through a fun activity. Looking forward to another run within this month maybe or next month.

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

Mommy Moments: Green!

2011-03-11T18:29:00.000-08:00

Green is somehow our family's color...being an advocate of the environment and the refreshing feeling it gives us when we see the green grass or the green leaves...it's soothing in the eyes.

It's one of Leon's favorite colors too...aside from blue and red

Here's Leon with some green in his clothes and
his green and black shoes.
While Ronald is stepping on some green stump.

Maia with the green miniature hot air balloon we bought at the

Hot Air Balloon Festival in Clarkfield Pampanga.

While I'm wearing a green miniskirt, lol!

5 years and still going...Happy Anniversary!

2011-03-08T07:08:00.000-08:00

It seems like it was just yesterday but we are celebrating our 5th year anniversary exactly today. M and I tied the knot on March 8, 2006 at the Santisimo Rosario Parish Church commonly known as the UST Chapel.

Time flies so fast yet everything that happened to us as a couple are still vivid in my mind. Not that I cannot believe it, Leon and Maia are the living proof of our fruitful and maturing relationship.

I never felt this happy. Having children is one source of chaotic happiness and having a spouse to share all my feelings is another thing. M is a good friend, my best friend that is aside from being my husband. I guess, that is one factor why despite some misunderstandings, we still end up at peace with each other.

Being married to each other for 5 years plus almost 3 years as a dating couple gave us enough time to know each other, although there are still more to learn in the years to come, I may say that we've already showed our true selves to one another. I know we will be able to face the challenges we are facing in the days and years to come because we've already laid the foundation of our relationship. Beyond love, we've learned to trust each other, to have faith in one another and to acknowledge that both of us have our weaknesses. We've learned to complement each other - one's weakness may be the strength of the other.

We may be a young couple compared to many out there but as promised during our wedding day and in front of God and our witnesses, we are bound to keep and fulfill our promises to each other given the many challenges in life.

I believe that there is no such thing as the perfect man or woman, I am not an exception to this, but I know there is the perfect partner - a perfect match - and M is my perfect match. Complementing each others imperfection creates a close to perfect relationship and that's what we are aiming at.

Leon and Maia's existence brings our relationship to a higher level. We are more responsible in almost all aspects in the relationship, emotional, psychological and spiritual. These, we try hard to inculcate to our children and with that it also harness us to become better persons.

As what I've posted in my Facebook wall...
"I am looking forward to more petty quarrels that will make our relationship stronger, to a more challenging life as a couple and parents to our children and to a more matured relationship filled with LOVE, HUGS and KISSES until my hair grows thin and gray and yours all gone :)"

I thank God for putting meaning in my life through the man who's destined to be my better half - M. Happy Anniversary dear! I Love you and will always will!

XOXO

Playtime (MYM#9, Mommy & Me Mondays #9, RT#9)

2011-03-07T05:13:00.000-08:00

Last March 2 was Leon's 4th birthday. We were supposed to go out of town for the weekend to celebrate his birthday unfortunately something came up with my husband's work that we decided to postpone the family outing to a later date.

Instead, we promised to buy him a gift after hearing mass. As usual, we went to SM Megamall after mass, had dinner then went to Toy Kingdom to buy his gift. While I was looking around for the perfect gift, father and son came out of sight.

Toy Kingdom at SM Megamall is now sporting a new look. It's more spacious and has a play area for the children to play around. I later found M and Leon at the play area, where else.

Leon was having fun playing with the gigantic building block toy. He was busy stacking them up then enjoying the sight of it falling down. Later on, he already had friends playing with him.Maia, on the other hand is too little to be left crawling around with the bigger children. She was contented watching Kuya Leon having fun. Daddy M was telling her that she'll experience the same when she's big enough.

We just had Maia ride a display bike for photo opts.

And before the store closed, I was able to sneak out to buy the bowling set toy as our gift to Leon. He was surprised about it and was grateful about it that he kept on thanking us on our way home.

My share to this weeks:

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

Mommy Moments: Orange

2011-03-03T15:32:00.000-08:00

This week's theme on Mommy Moments is the color ORANGE.

Twas easy for me finding Leon in Orange, here during the Hot Air Balloon Festival held at Clarkfield last February. But was difficult finding a picture of Maia with an orange stuff...I hope this shape sorter toy of hers will do :)

The Kids and Mickey Mouse (MYM#8, RT#8 & Mommy and Me Monday #8)

2011-02-27T15:57:00.000-08:00

Kids definitely loves Mickey Mouse. I believe because of it's smiling face and the colors that attracts kids.

This Sunday, we again went to the mall after hearing mass and having dinner. I particularly intended to go to purchase some items for our use because I heard they were on sale until the 28th of this month, I grabbed the chance!

After doing what we have to do, we brought the kids to the kids and toys section of the department store. Leon as usual and knowing the direction towards the toys section, headed towards it, playing with balls and cars --- the usual boy thing. Daddy M accompanied Leon while I was carrying Maia to the more girly toys, such as dolls and stuff toys.

Maia kept herself mum the whole time, from church to dinner to the mall. Until when she saw Mickey and Minnie Mouse, she, with her low pitched voice gave out the baby talk that tells us she's having fun. She went pointing to almost all Mickey and Minnie stuffed toys within the area and wanted to hold each one. We handed a few to her and she gladly hugged them.

I saw this Mickey statue and brought her near. Maia seems to be frightened by the huge Mickey in front of her but wasn't afraid. She was just attached to me because of the sling that held her from touching Mickey.

Leon caught us up and was able to be part of the next set of pictures. See how Leon adores Mickey too! Even his sweat pad is with a Mickey design.

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

Dear Daddy M

2011-02-25T17:44:00.001-08:00

Dear Daddy M,

Thank you for being our Daddy! Thank you for working hard to fulfill your promise of providing for our family. Thank you for the love and caring you give us all. We always pray for your good health and safety in work. Thank you for the playtime you spend with us even if you come home tired from work. Thank you for being so patient with Leon's naughtiness and for being Maia's favorite person in the whole world.

We love you and we'll always will!

Hugs and kisses,
Hahai, Leon & Maia

Photos by Hahai

2011-02-25T07:39:00.001-08:00

On the first day of 2011, I joined Project 365, both of Mommytography and of Sara of Make Music from your Heart to the Lord. Since then, I'm making every effort to post a picture a day. Although, I've missed out some days, I'm still determined to continue this photo blog of mine.

Aside from enjoying the meme, my OC side got over me, thus I've created a new site for my Project 365 called Hahai's 365 Photoblog.

Starting today, all entries for Mommytography and Project 365 a picture a day shall be posted at Hahai's 365 Photoblog. Feel free for visit me there too!

Hearts Everywhere

2011-02-23T05:52:00.000-08:00

I missed writing for Couple's Corner because of too much work in the office. Though still busy with work because we are having our strategic planning this week --- too much reporting and quite overwhelmed with the load of work up waiting to be done --- I'm here doing my share to the last topic for the love month...

Hearts Everywhere...From the time I met my husband M, my life was filled with beating hearts...though there are times the beating is faint, most often it's a thug.

I met M at Haribon. We were both new to the organization. He came just a month before I did. Although our work were unrelated, he was with the Marketing arm as the Membership Retention Officer while I came in the Secretary to the Research Group, fate brought us together. In one of the Membership Department's event, my counterpart for their group was unavailable on the said day. Maybe, taking his chances, he came up and asked me to cover for their secretary. I took on the task with the intention to learn more of the activity. lol!

Although I have to admit, I already noticed him on my first day of work when the HR assistant introduced the new employees to the whole organization's staff.

The event was a learning activity for me but it was likewise the first step for us to get to know each other better. From then on, M made the effort to be more friendly with me. As much as I tried not to give meaning to his actions, I found myself expecting for more.

Reporting to work wasn't hard for me as I was looking forward to going to work not just because I was new but because I found an inspiration.

Since then hearts were everywhere! In the workplace, on my mobile phone, on my emails...

Just to give you an idea of how the love story went...My first day of work was on June 2, the event was on June 17, our first date and kiss was June 25 and we went steady on June 28...whirlwind, you bet! But unlike other whirlwind romance that ends as fast as it started, ours became a promise to have and to hold, through thick and thin, in sickness and in health, til death do us part =)

Seems that this post is a compilation of this month's topics huh, lol!

Hope everyone had a happy heart's month!!!

Happy Valentine's! (Ruby Tuesday #8)

2011-02-21T15:52:00.000-08:00

Just before we started our Valentine's day party

Mommy and Me Monday #8: My little cupids

2011-02-21T07:53:00.000-08:00

Goofing around with my two little cupids, before they take their bath.

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

MYM#8; Project 365/33: 500 piece puzzle

2011-02-21T07:37:00.001-08:00

A 500 piece puzzle, purchased in 2009 but was only worked on and completed this year. I still have to transfer and stick each piece in an illustration board before having this framed. Great for the kids room :)

I am participating in the 2011 Mommytography 365 Project! For this year long project I will be posting an image a day, to get me out shooting, using my camera and learning new things with it daily. Anyone interested in photography can join, no need to be a Mommytographer. We have teens to adults, male and female, as well as people from all over the world. Come join the fun!

Mommy Moments: Valentine's Day 2011

2011-02-21T06:56:00.000-08:00

This post was due last Friday but was too busy with both family and work...yeah even on weekends!!!

How did we celebrate Valentine's day this year?

To start with, I brought along our kids to the office for our mini Valentine's party. Although the party started at 3pm, the kids came along in the morning. Why so? Leon was requested by our HR Staff to play cupid that day. At about 10 in the morning, we had to undress him. Clad only with his white brief on, he went around the office to distribute packs of local chocolates to all staff present that day. The whole office was so cheerful about this little chubby boy going around.
The mini party went on as planned, we had games, prizes and food. The male employees shelled out money to purchase flowers for all the ladies in the office. A single stemmed red rose was distributed to us by one male staff while the rest of the guys were serenading us with a love song while showing an AVP of all of the past and present lady employees.

Special prizes such as curly tops, chocnuts and cloud9 chocolates were handed to randomly picked names of employees that can show any RED item worn such as clothes, footwear, underwear (if you are brave enough to show it) and accessories. I won a Hany chocnut because of my red Ipanema slides.

At home, we just had the usual dinner but my husband surprised me with a bunch of lovely red and yellow carnation flowers.

my share to:

2011 Hot Air Balloon Festival (Mommy and Me Monday; MYM & RT)

2011-02-14T16:11:00.000-08:00

February 13 at 4:30 in the morning, we headed to Clark Air Base in Pampanga to join in the fun of the 2011 Hot Air Balloon Festival. It was a 2 hour drive from Quezon City. The kids were still sleeping when we carried them to the car. My mom tagged along as well as the 2 nannies.

miniature balloon sold at P150 - P200 ($3.75 - $5)

All had fun. We were able to witness the flight of the 26 giant hot air balloons. There were para-gliders that filled the sky with colors. There were also parachute exhibitions from 9 (?) certified air force men. I guess 5 were Filipinos and the rest were of different nationalities.

a photo shoot with 2 parachutists

We had fun going around booths and exhibits. Leon particularly liked the display of aircraft and the artillery. The field was open to kite flyers, both professional and amateurs. Leon requested us to buy him a kite, which we gladly did.

a soldier mime

Leon trying his hand on kite flying

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

Project 365/*32: Valentine and Heart

2011-02-10T04:29:00.000-08:00

Was looking for a good subject for

Sunday's assignment VALENTINE since Monday.
I was trying to find something a little out of the ordinary.

Up until this evening on my way home,
we passed by a department store,
alas I saw this,
grabbed my point and shot cam
and this came out.

and when I checked out Mommytography's site,
found out that Shape Challenge is on HEART.

Glad to have passed by the area,
hitting 2 birds with one stone
;)

Project 365/31: Agadeshi Tofu...M's style

2011-02-07T08:31:00.001-08:00

M's version of Agadeshi Tofu

definitely yummy,
as you can see, 1 piece is already missing
even before the picture was taken :)

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Mommy & Me Mondays#6: Dinner at Mister Kebab

2011-02-07T07:30:00.000-08:00

M and I are fond of eating out. We definitely love food, this is one of our ways of giving ourselves a treat after a week of hard work. Most often, we do it on Sundays after hearing mass with the kids.

This weekend, M's hungry tummy led us to Mister Kabab at West Ave. Mister Kabab serves Persian cuisine with the price easy on the pocket. I've heard so much of Mister Kabab but going there last night was my first. I would say, I'll definitely go back to experience the other dishes. M & I ordered for the Shawarma plate while Leon opted for the Chicken Chelo Kabab. Maia's too little to order for herself, she munched the tomatoes that went with the Shawarma plate instead. Besides, she just had her milk before we reached the place. Leon enjoyed the garlic sauce which wasn't rationed.

The restaurant isn't so fancy, so don't expect much from it. What I like about the set-up is the spacious aisle in between tables, giving each diner enough space for themselves. Plus running on ceiling fan instead of air conditioning units gives the place a more cozy ambiance while promoting an environment friendly behavior.

Here are photos of us while waiting for our orders to be served.

My share to
Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

Mommy and Me Monday; MYM & RT#5: UST Quadricentennial Anniversary

2011-01-31T16:33:00.000-08:00

As an alumni of the University of Sto. Tomas, the oldest Catholic University in Asia and to show my gratitude to the school that taught me more than scholastic knowledge, I, together with my family attended its 400th Anniversary.

It was a week long celebration, but since I am a working mom, I decided to join the festivities on the 27th, the eve of UST's anniversary and attended the Thanksgiving Mass on the 28th.

To welcome it's 400th year, UST gave it a bang. At exactly 11:45, the pyrolympic show started which lasted for at least 20 minutes. It was said that the King of Spain donated an amount for this purpose. All of us enjoyed the spectacular show. UST grounds were filled with not just current students but also alumni and their families.

After the fireworks display, we still went around the campus to experience more of UST's celebration.

behind us is the quadricentennial balloon

behind us is the Main Building that houses administration,
the museum, College of Science, College of Pharmacy and
UST Law School
I'm just so proud to be a Thomasian!

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

Project 365/30: Candle for Prayer

2011-01-30T16:46:00.000-08:00

Went back to UST for the QThanksgiving high mass.
I consider myself and fellow Thomasians to be fortunate to
being able to experience this once-in-a-lifetime event.

A Thanksgiving mass was offered by the UST community
continuous blessings we all receive.

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

Project 365/29: Proud to be a Thomasian

2011-01-30T16:27:00.000-08:00

Too proud to be an alumni of the Royal and the Pontifical University of Sto. Tomas.
We've visited UST once in a while but for this Quadricentennial event,
I was too delighted to have seen my alma mater so old yet so new.
All landmarks where refurbished for the anniversary.

The Main Building were I finished my college degree
looked so elegant and regal.
With all the statues of saints, philosophers and scientists
cleaned from dusts and dirt that accumulated through the years.

They've decorated it with lights for the occasion

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Mommy Moments: New Family Photo

2011-01-30T06:49:00.000-08:00

Another year has passed and it was a good one for us. It was the year the our family became complete. As often mentioned in my blogs, Maia's arrival completed us.

Since Christmas season was the time for family gatherings, it is also a good venue for having a family photo shot. Since then, I make sure that we have a photo as a family in whatever occasion there is.

Here are some of our latest Family Pictures:

Wedding of M's cousin

Christmas 2010
New Year's Eve

Christening of Alex Gabriel
(son of M's high school friend)

Sunday Dinner at A' Veneto
Pajama night in January

and the most recent,
during UST's Quadricentennial Anniversary

my share to:

Couples Corner: Our Promise

2011-01-29T17:21:00.001-08:00

I missed out posting this last Wednesday so here's my share to this week's:

As always, and even in the beginning, our promise to love each other remains to be our promise until present time, hopefully until the day we die.
Our love for each other is the root of all other promises we make to each other. The promise to respect and care for each other, to be faithful to one another and to be able to provide well for the family.

So far everything is in order and we believe love will flourish more as long as we have Christ in the center of our relationship as a couple and as a family.

Project 365/28: Flora and Fauna

2011-01-28T20:30:00.000-08:00

You'll see this on one side of my office desk.

A water plant
A flower message clip
and a Lady bug paper clip

An effort to put life in an inanimate environment

...ooops, forgot about the Budda,
I found it in one of the boxes when we transferred
to our new office 4 years ago.
Since then it's been sitting peacefully on my desk.

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

Project 365/27: University of Sto Tomas' Quadricentennial Celebration

2011-01-27T15:55:00.000-08:00

Today January 27, 2011 is the eve of the Quadricentennial Celebration of
the Royal and the Pontifical University of Sto. Tomas
in Manila, Philippines

Proud to be a Thomasian!

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

Project 365/26: Office mugs

2011-01-26T03:58:00.000-08:00

We have office mates and office mugs

------------------------

Project 365/25: Silly Bandz

2011-01-25T06:12:00.000-08:00

Leon got two sets of silly bandz from my office mate
one set is of Dinosaur designs
while the other one are fruits

Project 365/*24, RT#4: I Spy Ball

2011-01-24T16:35:00.000-08:00

After a serious conversation with Leon, we've finally succeeded in convincing him to give away some of his old toys, those that aren't of his use anymore. We've explained to him that there's plenty of street children waiting for toys, even old ones since they are not capable of buying for themselves. Same with his old clothes.

After segregating his toys, allowing him to choose which ones to give away and which ones are to stay, here's the picture of his crate with toys to stay.

Oops, Maia's Bu doll is in Leon's toy crate.

my share to:

Project 365/23, MYM#4 : Flowers and Raindrops

2011-01-24T15:41:00.000-08:00

Was trying to capture the rain falling from our roof
and I was able to capture this,
droplets amidst the flowers

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