REFLECTION

One of my favorite things: sunrise. I just love the drama of the rising sun. The colors, the calm, the tranquility. Just me, the sun, the water and my thoughts. I wish I lived near the sea. I could take photos and paint/sketch all day. Yes, bliss...

Photo taken last June 2007.

SUNDAY

Today is a slow day. Probably because it's been raining since last night. Yup, another typhoon has entered the Philippines. I just wonder how long the weather will stay cold like this. Anyway, we're taking it easy today. I decided to let the boys do whatever they want. We're having a break from lessons. I figure, we could all enjoy the wonderful, cool weather. =D

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Natasha, Ruther's cousin from Australia, is going home on Thursday. Last night, she and her mom (Tita Nicki) spent the night here so we had a chance to bond. She was also able to talk to Ruther and it was nice that despite being away in Japan, they were still able to exchange goodbyes. Tasha says that she'll be returning next year so it will be great to have her here again. Hopefully, her elder sister Marissa could come as well. =D

EASY VEGETABLE STIR-FRY

8 broccoli florets
10 small shrimps, shelled
2 tbsp garlic, crushed
2 tsp ginger, crushed
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp sesame oil
8 pcs baby corn
16 snow peas
2 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 C water
3 tsp cornstarch
3 tbsp rice wine

Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes. Fry crushed garlic and crushed ginger in vegetable oil for 1 minute. Add sesame oil and the shrimps. Stir-fry for 2 minutes. Add baby corn, snow peas and broccoli plus soy sauce. Stir-fry for 2 minutes.
Mix water with cornstarch and add to the wok. Add rice wine and bring to a boil. Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat. Serve with hot, steamy rice.

TIE-DYE

We did a tie-dye activity a few weeks ago. This is one of the shirts we made. I think it's really cute and Nikki had a lot of fun making the tie-dye shirts. I took this photo after I removed the rubber bands and rinsed the shirts. I think we will be doing more tie-dyes later on... =D

END OF SEPTEMBER

Can you actually believe that after tomorrow, September 30, 2007 will be in the past? Wow. Three more months and 2007 will be over. One more month and I will finally see Ruther again!! I wish October will be over as quickly too.

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I am starting to suspect that Ethan's rash the other day was caused by one of those hairy caterpillars. I found one outside our door last night. How it managed to come into the house, I have no idea. But I am very much relieved that Ethan's itch was caused by this bugger rather than it being caused by something more serious like dengue (my sis actually suggested that to my extreme horror!). There is a vacant lot in front of our house and according to Mama, there are a lot of higad (those hairy caterpillars) there. Well, my experience with a higad was quite unpleasant so I am keeping my eyes open for some stray higad in the house. It rained the whole night so I'm suspecting these insects are looking for a place to get out of the rain. I just wish they wouldn't pick our house!

SHRIMPS IN SWEET THAI CHILI SAUCE

3 tbsp vegetable oil
1 kilo medium-sized shrimps shelled
salt and pepper
1/3 C garlic sliced thinly
2 C Thai chili sauce

Heat oil in a medium-sized pan or wok over medium to low heat. Season shrimps with salt and pepper, them saute with garlic (do not burn garlic) until shrimps turn pink.
Add Thai chili sauce and simmer for 5 more minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and serve immediately.

MISSING AUTUMN IN JAPAN

Two boys, ice cream and autumn leaves.

Beautiful Sankeien Garden.

Sweethearts forever.

At Kannai.

Sharing cotton candy at Nissan Stadium.

ALLERGY?

Yesterday Ethan had these red blotches all over his tummy, arms and thighs and some on his face. I took one look at them and suspected it was a rash from an allergic reaction. To what, I don't know yet. I have been racking my brains on what Ethan ate, on where he went or what he did the previous days and I'm still stumped. I KNOW it's an allergic reaction because I used to have those. I would get these hideous hives all over my body. I distinctly remember one night, I woke up (I think it was around 1am) and I was covered with these really HUGE hives. I looked like I had a map on my body! My face was swollen and I was covered in these huge welts from the top of my head to the soles of my feet. It was soooo itchy, I had to get up, go to the bathroom and turn on the shower to "hot" and I stayed there for a few minutes just to relieve the itch. I then went to my parents' room because the Caladryl was there and because I was covered in hives, I used it like lotion. I poured a good amount in the palm of my hand and I spread it all over the bumps, welts and itch. A few minutes after I did that, I just felt like my insides were sooo cold. I felt my knees shake and weaken and I told my mom, "Mommy, I don't feel well." Of course, my panicky mom brought me to the hospital right away and I got a shot on my arm which relieved the itchiness IMMEDIATELY. I was really happy about that. But the next morning, when I saw myself in the mirror I was horrified! I was covered in pink!! I forgot about the Caladryl on my body! I went to the hospital looking like a pink alien from who knows where! Oh my goodness, I will never forget that.

Anyway, going back to Ethan, the redness seems to have subsided this morning, but he still complains of itchiness. So I have to continue giving him his antihistamine today. I hope this will go away soon. I hate seeing him so uncomfortable. My sis (who is a doctor) is coming home tonight and she said she'll check on Ethan later. Goody.

X-RAY

This is my brother-in-law's (Ron's) periapical x-ray of his third molar. He wanted to consult with me first about the treatment for his aching tooth. Without batting an eyelash, I told him, it's either root canal or extraction. There's just no way the tooth could be restored through filling. The cavity in the tooth is just too big and the pulp has been infected not to mention the existence of a visible radioluscency (meaning there is slight bone loss) at the mesial (front) root tip. You can actually see it in the x-ray (darkening at the root tip). Anyway, he was pretty disappointed when he heard that. So I told him he should take better care of his teeth. =D

EARLY

I woke up early this morning because I had to be Ruther's alarm clock today. Their bowling tourney last night ended at around 10pm and I'm happy to say that Ruther had great scores: he made a 141 and 142. Really not bad because before, he would score less than a hundred. I'm glad he's improving and having fun at the same time.

Anyway, when he got home, we spoke through Skype and for some particular reason, the boys just wanted to talk to their dad (which does not always happen) so the three of us were squished in this chair in front of the webcam. I would not have minded their enthusiasm if it weren't for their weight on my lap. My boys have just grown so much. Anyway, Ruther thought of taking a shower after our talk (which was around 12am in Japan) which I think was a bad idea because he lost all sleepiness after. He asked me then to wake him up today just to make sure he gets up in time for the office. And I agreed. It's really no problem for me because I can always nap later in the afternoon. I'm just worried about Ruther getting to the office on time. He told me last night that he had a lot of things to do and will probably be home late which worries me too because I don't want him to lose sleep again. Well hopefully, he won't be too late tonight and he'll be able to sleep earlier.

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It was great having Ethan all to myself this morning. Although he and Nikki love playing together (and sometimes not), it's nice to have a bit of one-on-one with my bunso (youngest). There are days when I try to differ their nap times so that I could spend some alone time with Nikki and then when he naps, Ethan and I bond. Being a second child too, I understand Ethan's need for private bonding moments with Ruther and me. It's also important that he feels at times that he's the center of everyone's universe for even a few minutes, with no distractions, with no sibling, with no competition. I want Ethan to enjoy being himself, a personality and attitude not dictated by the people around him, by circumstances or by comparison to his older brother. I love my boys' uniqueness. Sure, they drive me crazy sometimes but I love how different they are and how they manage to get along (sometimes).

Anyway, it was a cold morning. It rained the night before so the ground was wet but not too wet. Ethan is like me. He enjoys nature. He likes taking strolls, he enjoys looking at the trees, he does not mind getting dirty when he plays with sand. He has this artistic eye in him and I could tell he really appreciates his surroundings. Unlike Nikki, he does not merely look, he sees. So I really enjoy taking Ethan outside. He loves bugs most of all and when we spotted (from a distance) a really hairy caterpillar, he thoroughly enjoyed that. We also got to see a lot of millipedes because of last night's rain. We also saw a chicken walking along the street looking for something for breakfast. He also loved that. Anyway, I bought some pandesal (buns) at the nearby bakery and had some for breakfast with a cup of coffee. Really yummy. Just wish Ruther were here to make me enjoy it more. Anyway, after a few minutes, Ethan asked for some milk and now he's asleep. I'm not surprised. He usually gets up at around 10 in the morning (considering we sleep late in the evenings). So I guess for now, Mommy has some alone time in her hands. =D

FLASHBACK

This photo was taken in late 2003 I think. Ethan was still very much a baby although his hair is already quite long in this photo. I really love photos of Nikki and Ethan together. I think I should do more shots of them together because it always gives me such a wonderful feeling. I like seeing them like this because I know how different their personalities are and yet, they can't have enough of the other. So cute...

TAGGED

Mhay tagged me! It's a Q and A thing...

Q1: What were you doing 10 years ago?
I was still at university ... aimless, loveless, lonely.

Q2: What were you doing 1 year ago?
Having the time of my life with my family in Japan, a country I have grown to love so much! Miss it a lot! =(

Q3: What are the 5 snacks you enjoy?
kakanin
bread
fruits
my mom's chocolate cake and milk
pinoy street food

Q4: What are the 5 songs you know the lyrics to?
It Might Be You - Stephen Bishop
My Favorite Things - from The Sound of Music
I'll Always Stay In Love This Way - Martin Nievera
Sun and Moon - from Miss Saigon
Moon River - from Breakfast at Tiffany's

Q5: 5 things you would do if you are a millionaire
Get Ruther a cool car.
Travel with Ruther.
Save for the boys' future.
Invest.
Help a cause (especially one that promotes environmental awareness and protects Mother Nature).

Q6: 5 bad habits
Can be moody
Possessive about family and stuff
Ultra sensitive (but am learning to be "sensitive" without the "ultra")
Forgetful
OC sometimes

Q7: 5 things you like to do
Travel with Ruther
Make love (Oops! Adult content! Hahaha!)
Homeschool my boys
Crafts
Read, read, read

Q8: 5 favorite toys (or maybe my gadgets?)
Laptop
Cellphone
Camera
My boys' Playdoh
All the stuffed toys that Ruther gave me!!

Q9: 5 things you would never wear
Fake nails
Really low-cut jeans (can't anymore with a jelly belly - not unless I get an appointment with Belo - hahaha!)
Fake jewelry (I have allergies)
Torn tops or grunge look
Those necklaces that have spikes on them

Q10: 5 things you hate to do
Wasting time (like waiting in line, being put on hold, etc.)
Vomiting (it just sucks so bad)
Losing weight (because it takes f.o.r.e.v.e.r...)
Waiting for Ruther to come home from overseas
Techy stuff (only because I know Ruther will always do it better than me in the end)

I'm tagging Clea and Beevee! Have fun guys! =D

RAINY WEDNESDAY

Because of all the work being done in Ruther's and my room, I have been quite distracted and have become too engrossed in its outcome. So far so good, that's all I can say for now. The painting of the walls and the cabinets/shelves is scheduled in a few days and I have yet to buy the paint. I might as well get that done by tomorrow because I want everything to go smoothly. I promise to post photos of the room once it's all done. =D

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Because of the distractions, I have not updated my Christmas list!! I alreaday have some presents but I have a lot more to buy in time for December. I know you're probably thinking: "It's waaay too early!" but I usually start my Christmas shopping in July! I just really want to get the nicest (not necessarily the most expensive) presents for family, friends and godchildren. So yeah, I'm a bit OC when it comes to Christmas shopping. =D

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Ruther has a bowling tournament tonight. I hope he has fun. His favorite sports are badminton, bowling and basketball but I think his badminton games are the best. Anyway, I will hear from him tonight for sure. The last time he played he was not very happy with his scores. Hopefully tonight will be different. =D

MY BLOG IS LOVED!

Kristine loves my blog and tagged me! Thanks so much! Really appreciate it! Anyway, here are some of my favorites...

1. Pinkitude - because you rock, Amy! =D

2. Kyoto Daily Photo - because I love Macky's creative shots and because I miss Japan so much

3. The Midnight Blogger - because Kari enjoys the simple things in life (like me!)

4. Nurtured by Love - because through this blog, I am inspired to continue on with our homeschooling journey

Keep on bloggin'! =D

PHOTOS DURING PAPA'S BIRTHDAY

Here are some photos taken last Saturday, September 22. It was Papa's birthday.

Nikki and a watermelon - on our way to Laguna...

The feverish baby stays with Mommy.

Straight into the water.

Happy Birthday Papa!

Inside the caterpillar tunnel.

Can you spot Nikki?

SUNNY

After a particularly rainy night, today was disappointingly sunny. I know it's not good form to always wish for rains but it's just so warm! Well, maybe it was a lot warmer than expected because there was a blackout this morning but still, it would have been wonderful if it stayed cold so I would not have to fan the boys and keep them distracted from the heat. They were great though. Even without electricity, they did not bug me about lack of things to do. I think that's great especially when kids these days are so used to electricity. So after they had their bath, we read some books. Then I made some iced coffee (it was yummy!). After that, we went outside and blew bubbles while Ethan searched for bugs. After that, we played with their air hockey and Nikki is really learning to be a good loser. Before, he would protest or complain a lot but now, he takes it all in stride. I'm really proud of him. Ethan couldn't care any less if he wins or loses as long as he has fun. =D Anyway, we tried to do some other things and around 1030, Ethan started to be sleepy so I fanned him. Nikki just stayed on the bed with his battery-operated Pooh fan. A few minutes after that, the lights came on and well, now I'm doing this. I am kind of a bit sleepy still because despite sleeping late last night, I woke up early this morning when I felt the fan stop turning when the blackout happened (as I've said before, I'm a light sleeper). So I might take a little nap this afternoon to recharge. =D

ROOM UPDATE

I haven't had time to study today because I kept on checking on the progress in Ruther's and my bedroom. Today, Manong installed the air conditioning and started making the TV rack. So far so good. I'm thinking he'll be done with everything in 3 days' time. And I'm sooo exciteed about that. I just hope that the painters do a good job in painting the room as well. I don't want Ruther to be disappointed. I'm thinking of going to the hardware tomorrow and have my paint mixed. Just so everything is ready. I can't wait to see the final look of the room. =D

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Even if Ruther is miles away from Nikki and Ethan he still tries his best to be a doting father. How so? He knows that Nikki is nuts for Mario Bros. and he got Nikki this really cute kuppa shell from a UFO catcher. Nikki was really ecstatic he wanted Ruther to give it to him through the webcam! Hahaha! Silly boy... Ruther also got some Mario Bros. collectibles from those capsules and they were sooo cute! Take a look at these...

I'm not a Mario fan but I still find them so cute = D

NO WORK

It's a holiday in Japan today so Ruther has a long weekend and will have enough time to catch up with rest. It's the equinox (already) and I will surely miss autumn in Japan. Officially, autumn is my favorite season of all. I just love all the colors, the cool air and the hint of Christmas. It just suits me to a T. Anyway, hopefully, another autumn in Japan will still happen for me...

.....

Ethan's fever seems to have broken and I am hoping that he is well and that his fever won't return. So far, he has become quite noisy again and has started to move around more - for which I am glad. He still however, refuses to let me out of his sight. When I go to the kitchen or the bathroom, I would hear his voice follow me, "Mom-mee? Mom-mee?" Then I would reassure him and tell him where I was. I am doing my best to be patient with Ethan because I understand his need to be secure. I know when he is good and ready, Ethan will let go of me easily. (I just hope I won't be in tears then.)

RED AND JUICY

Yummy watermelon. We bought one on our way to Sun City (the hot spring resort) and ate these juicy slices after we had our lunch. I was so stuffed! Sweet and juicy. Just the way I like my watermelons. =D

Photo taken last Saturday.

PAPA'S BIRTHDAY

Nikki had a lot of fun at the hot spring resort in Laguna yesterday. We left the house a bit late, but everyone was in good spirits. Nikki was the most excited though. He kept on talking and talking on the way to Laguna much to the chagrin of everyone. Anyway, Ethan was still feverish so he stayed with me the whole time. He was feeling so low he didn't say a word and didn't move much. He just wanted to be cuddled. Poor baby. Anyway, we did not go back to Monte Vista. We decided to try a new place called Sun City. It was all right. Not only was the entrance fee cheaper but they had more lifeguards there and the place was quite clean. So I was happy with the choice. Nikki went to the children's pool straightaway and stayed there until we had to leave. He simply had a lot of fun which was a great thing. Ethan slept most of the day. Mama, Papa, Russell and his wife Christine swam and Ron and I stayed at our table to watch over our things. When I called Ruther at around 2pm to check on him, he asked to speak to Papa and so he greeted his dad. They conversed for a while. It rained the rest of the afternoon and I had to shield Ethan from some of the spray. I dozed a bit though because the air was just so deliciously cool. Anyway, we got ready to leave by 430. We had to drop Ron off at his place in Laguna because he decided to stay there until Monday (he works in the vicinity). Nikki and I bathed there because there were reports that there was going to be a water interruption at home. I didn't want to go home and NOT be able to bathe. That would just be so yucky. I didn't want to take the chance. Anyway, it was a bit traffic on the way home so it was 8pm when we finally parked in front of our gate. We were all so hungry too, so we had dinner and after that, I spoke to Ruther and told him about our day. He was still concerned about Ethan but I told him he was improving.

Really exhausting day. But fun. =D

CORDLESS PHONE BATTERY

Have you ever considered throwing away your cordless phone because the batteries keep on discharging? Have you ever wondered where to get fresh batteries for your relatively new phone? Well the answer to your problem is here. Check out these cordless phone batteries. I am sure there is one available for your own brand. Figuring out what battery your phone needs is as easy as one, two, three. All you have to do is to enter the model number, part number or OEM and you're done. No hassle no fuss.

cordless phone battery

STILL HOT

Ethan still has fever although he did managed to consume 2 bottles of milk which pleased me, unlike before when he would only drink water. He also vomited once last night and fortunately, did not do that on the bed, so I am thankful for that. I noticed that my boys usually vomit when they are sick. But then again, my boys are not prone to sickness so I suppose it's all right. They usually average a fever/one illness per year. Anyway, I hope Ethan does get better. I just know that once he starts perspiring, the fever will break and he'll be okay again. But when he's sick he's such a cranky baby (like his dad!) and he would always want some hugs and kisses and refuse to walk around and would prefer a piggyback ride instead. Poor baby...

I'm also a bit worried about the swimming thing today because of his fever. I don't know if he'll be too cranky to swim or if the water will be too inviting and he'll be in the water the whole time. I'm not actually worried about the water temperature because it's a hot spring resort. I'm worried about him getting the chills. But I am prepared. I brought several clothes for him (just in case there would be another vomiting bout) and I also brought a blanket and a baby comforter for him to lie on. Ruther is also worried about him. But hopefully, Ethan will bounce back to his usual self soon.

PARTY INVITATIONS

Planning a special party? Start the celebration with these beautiful party invitations. Whatever event you have in mind, they have the perfect invitation and announcements for that very special day. Take your pick from the many designs, all creative and very beautiful. There are wedding and bridal shower invitations, adoption and birth announcements, baptism, christening and communion invitations, not to mention holiday cards and graduation announcements. You can style your invitations using thermography or imprintables. You can even check out their greeting cards, stationary products, business cards, letterhead, personalized post-it notes and other accessories. Ordering is very easy too. So, celebrate life with Invitations By You!

party invitations

HERE'S LOOKIN' AT YOU

I took this photo of a stray cat outside a neighbor's house. It was staring at me so I thought of taking its photo. It didn't seem to mind and just looked away after I got the shot. Oh well...

Photo taken last week.

PAPA'S BIRTHDAY

It's Papa's birthday tomorrow. And the family agreed to have another get-together in Laguna. It will be a swimming thing so you can only imagine the boys' excitement, especially Nikki's. He has become such a water baby I am now considering enrolling him in a swim class this summer. I still have to observe him though. Nikki's shyness sometimes gets the best of him. I don't want the instructor to think that he's being disobedient when he's just to shy to try new things (he detests making mistakes; a part of his obsessive-compulsive personality). But hopefully, he will want to learn how to swim, listen to the instructor and make new friends. =D

Anyway, I have yet to prepare our things for tomorrow. Knowing me, I'll probably be bringing a huge bag. Hey, we're 3 people ya know! =D

ANIMAL MASKS

Ever wanted that perfect party for your child? Have you ever thought of having a jungle or zoo theme that would stand out and make your child's special day really unique? Well, have no fear. Animal masks and costumes to the rescue! Not only are there masks for the kids, there are for adults too! Yup! You can be the perfect ladybug for your child's celebration. Or, if he prefers a dinosaur theme, get ready to be a triceratops or even a Dino look-alike. Or if your daughter loves butterflies, there are beautiful masks of different colors and you can even match her with a butterfly mesh mask. Think of the possibilities. Not only will your child (and your family) have loads of fun, it will be one celebration he/she won't forget!

animal masks

HOT

Ethan seems to be feverish today. I don't know exactly why he has fever but I'm suspecting it's from running around in his birthday suit after having his bath this morning. Instead of getting dressed immediately, he led me to a merry chase around the room and was exposed to the fan. I can't think of anything else that could be the cause of his fever because we did not play in the rain for the past days and he hasn't been exposed to anything else. I'm not so worried (yet). So far, it seems like a slight fever at this time. I'm observing him closely and the moment he gets hotter I'll have to give him sponge baths and paracetamol (which he hates). Hopefully, it won't come to that. Ethan has always been a healthy boy and rarely gets sick. I think this momentary illness will do his body some good.

MY BEST FRIEND'S WEDDING

I watched My Best Friend's Wedding on HBO again today. I really love this movie. Which is really strange because I really love happy endings and this does not have a happy ending. I suppose Julia's character as well as Dermot's were just so perfect. Not to mention Cameron's bubbly character and Rupert's antics. I suppose the movie just had the right ingredients to make this movie so enjoyable. Of course, for the nth time, I cried again in the end. It's just so so sad. But at least it was hopeful. =D





Some of my favorite quotes from the movie:


Michael O'Neill: Kimmy says if you love someone you say it, you say it right then, out loud. Otherwise the moment just...
Julianne Potter: Passes you by...
Michael O'Neill: Passes you by...


George Downes: It's amazing the clarity that comes with psychotic jealousy.


Julianne Potter: Crème brûlée can never be Jell-O. YOU could never be Jell-O.
Kimmy Wallace: I HAVE to be Jell-O!
Julianne Potter: You're never gonna be Jell-O!


Julianne Potter: Michael... I love you. I've loved you for nine years, I've just been too arrogant and scared to realize it, and... well, now I'm just scared. So, I realize this comes at a very inopportune time but I really have this gigantic favor to ask of you. Choose me. Marry me. Let me make you happy. Oh, that sounds like three favors, doesn't it?


Julianne Potter: I'm pond scum. Well, lower actually. I'm like the fungus that feeds on pond scum.
Michael O'Neill: Lower. The pus that infects the mucus that cruds up the fungus that feeds on the pond scum. On the other hand, thank you for loving me that much, that way. It's pretty flattering.
Julianne Potter: Except it makes me fungus.

FLASHBACK

Nikki at 4 months. He looks so tiny in this photo. The one thing I remember most about Nikki when he was a baby was that he had very little hair. Good thing he has a headful of hair now. =D I also remember that despite giving birth to him normally, he had a wonderfully rounded head. So cute. I just wanna tickle his tummy. =D

Photo taken March 2002.

OMG

OH MY GOD.

Remember my problem before about hiring a carpenter? Remember the time when I asked for Mama's help finding one so that I could have Ruther's and my room fixed? Then, when that did not happen, I found my own carpenter and so far, I have been so pleased with his work and speed?

Well, today, when I woke up, I found out that Mama and Papa "borrowed" the carpenter I hired to do something else aside from the things I wanted him to do in our bedroom! I was like - "What the-?!" Hello!? Didn't I hire this carpenter for MY room? Didn't I go out of my way to find him so that my room will no longer be pushed back at the end of the line? And now that I am happy with the work and how things are going, AFTER ONLY 4 DAYS, they steal him right under my nose!?!?! My goodness! My frustration this morning really reached record levels, I assure you.

Let me make one thing clear. I do NOT hate my in-laws. I just don't like the way they do certain things. For instance, "borrowing" the carpenter when they specifically know that he is currently working on Ruther's and my room - and on MY hire. I KNEW that they needed Manong's (the carpenter's) help. I WAS TOLD that they were going to have some of the old furnishings restored by him because they will use those in the living room. I KNEW about all those things but they never told me they were going to get him immediately to do those jobs! I mean, hello?!? It's just right that Manong finish the jobs I had him do first before they get him, right? I mean, he is after all, MY hire. So why again am I at the back of the line? Of course, I could not stand it any more. Meaning to talk to my mother-in-law, I called her at the office but she was out. Not wanting to delay it any longer, I asked (take note I wrote "asked" not "told") her through SMS if it was all right for Manong to finish up in my room first before he does her job/s for him. She agreed and tomorrow, Manong will be back in my room to do the things he was meant to do today and the next few days. I mean, in less than a week, Manong will definitely be done with my room. Surely they can wait that long?

My god. Soooo frustrating. I just hate this feeling. I just don't want to be at the back of the line again!! After several days of being so excited and thrilled that my room is now taking shape, my plans will be put on hold because they refuse to hire another carpenter for their needs? Is it because my carpenter is readily available (i.e., he's here in the house) that's why they asked him to do their jobs today? I want Ruther's and my room done. I want to have it painted, I want it decorated, I want it to be livable already! Is that so difficult for me to have? Honestly.

Am I showing any wrinkles yet?

SCARY THOUGHT

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070918/hl_afp/ushealthvirusclimate

Global warming to increase infectious disease: study
by Jean-Louis Santini
Tue Sep 18, 1:56 PM ET

CHICAGO (AFP) - Global warming likely will lead to an increase in infectious disease around the world, as viruses, microbes and the agents that spread them flourish, experts at a medical conference warned Tuesday.

The problem is already evident and has become particularly acute in just the past decade, according to researchers at a meeting of the American Society for Microbiology.

"Years ago we probably would not be talking about this topic," said Anthony McMichael, lead scientist on a study entitled "The Impact of Climate Change on Human Health."

"Human-induced climate change ... is proceeding a little bit faster than we would have expected," said McMichael, an epidemiologist at the University of Canberra in Australia.

Experts cite West Nile virus as a disease whose spread has been facilitated by global warming.

Native to Africa, West Nile can be found today throughout Canada and the United States, according to McMichael, who explained that a rise in North American temperatures since 1999 has allowed non-native mosquitoes that transmit the virus to thrive.

Jim Sliwa, spokesman for the American Society for Microbiology, underscored the potential health crisis posed by a rise in world temperatures.

"We know that climate change is going to change the pattern of infectious diseases," said Sliwa at the conference, which, with some 12,000 physicians and scientists, is billed as the world's biggest on disease-causing microbes.

For example, he said, "the malaria line in mountainous regions will continue to rise," as global average temperature increases.

McMichael also predicted a rise in the incidence of "year-round influenza" in the tropics.

Near the equator, he said "there is no influenza season, so as the temperature rises the tropical areas expand and we'll get more year-round influenza."

Climate change experts believe that the earth's temperature is likely to rise by 1.8-4.0 degrees Celsius by the year 2100.

Experts believe diseases worsened by global warming already have contributed to the deaths of between 150,000 and five million people per year.

In addition to an increase in diseases like malaria and dengue fever, global warming is likely heighten the incidence of diarrhea, heat waves, drought, floods and malnutrition.

To prevent a global warming drive health crisis, McMichael said, researchers will have to begin to think about the interconnectedness of climate and infectious diseases.

"We are going to have to think within larger integrated terms (and) employ a more ecological perspective," he said at the conference, which runs through Thursday.

However, McMichael said there are some areas where infectious disease may be less virulent as a result of global warming.

"In West Africa, for example, the rate of (malaria) is likely to decline, as future conditions are getting too hot and too dry for the mosquito," he said, adding that there has been a 25 percent decline in rainfall over the last three decades in the Sahara region of Africa.

"Sub-Saharan Africa almost certainly is in an early stage of a climate change process which we know is tending to displace rainfall systems," McMichael said.

RAINY WEDNESDAY

I woke up this morning to the sound of my cellphone alarm and the pitter-pat of the rain on the roof. I called Ruther to wake him up and talked to him in a few minutes to make sure he won't go back to sleep (he has a tendency to do that). Anyway, it was a cold morning and I had the urge to pee so I did but after I got back, I lost all sleepiness. I decided to turn on the laptop to check my mails and after a while, continue studying. Of course, I made some coffee first to settle my tummy in the cold weather. Yummy!

I think it's going to be an okay day today.

CHAHAN

I miss my chahan. Ruther brought me to this place a few days after we arrived in Japan and I loved it!! It was really filling and really yummy!! Hopefully, I will still be able to have this should we go back to Japan. Am keeping my fingers crossed..

MORE UPDATES

I am so excited to have our room finally done!! The very very simple bedframe is almost finished. The cabinets are also more than halfway done. The hanging cabinets just lack doors and after all of those are done, only the painting of the cabinets, shelves, and walls remain. Of course, the carpenter will have to make an access to the attic yet but I'm sure that won't take long. I am really itching to start decorating!! I already bought curtains and I have these ideas in my head for our contemporary Asian themed room. I know it won't be as grand as those depicted in magazines, but as long as the room is minimal, clean and neat, then I'm sure Ruther will be happy. And I'll be happy as well.

I just love pleasing my husband. =D

CHAMPIONS!!!

After 5 long years the crown is ours again!! Woohoo!! UP PEP ROCKS!!! Congratulations on being the 2007 UAAP Cheerdance Competition Champs!! I love you guys!!

Much thanks to Teresa Barrozo for the amazing pics!!






Perfect pyramid!









That's a guy, folks!

Famous oblation pose.












Grabe!

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OMG! Is that a stunt or what?! My beloved UP PEP!! Woohoo!!

DREAMS AND NIGHTMARES

I dream a lot. And these are only those dreams that I actually remember when I wake up. I don't even know (of course, there's no way I could know) all those other dreams I experienced while in really deep sleep. Anyway, some of my dreams are not dreams. Some are nightmares. I usually get these weird scary ones that usually have something to do with Ruther. Either something happened to him, we were separated through violent means, he was mugged, etc. I usually wake up really bothered, really agitated and really tearful. Some of these I share with Ruther, but sometimes, I don't tell him because I don't want him to think I'm a nutcase (and a worrywart). I don't know why I dream a lot. Maybe it's because my mind is so vulnerable in sleep that all my thoughts just make a story of their own and scare the h*ll out of me, maybe it's because I have a lot of fears (that's probably an understatement), maybe it's genetic (my mom dreams a lot too). This will probably take more research on my part to fully understand dreams, nightmares and the like. I might probably encounter that in my textbook soon. Who knows, I might find my answers there.

Anyway, I found this interesting as I was browsing through the 'net. It's from Deepak Chopra. If you don't know who he is... oh well... you can always look him up... =D


Nightmares are usually the organism's way of processing some intense experience during sleep.
The content of the nightmare does not necessarily correlate with a similar real life experience; rather it is the emotional response that is similar.
So having violent nightmares doesn’t necessarily imply that you are violent under your social veneer, but more likely, the emotional reactions during your nightmares indicate the quality of some psychic trauma from your past that is now being released.


Interesting, huh? Anyway, I would love to undergo regression and find out what my past life was like. But that will be another story for me to tell...

ROOM UPDATE

Our closet is coming along nicely. I am actually pleased at the size, the make and the style of it. All it lacks now are the cabinet doors then it'll be ready for painting. Wee!

The carpenter also began making the bedframe today. I was actually surprised to see the four sides of the bedframe already done. I think he'll probably be done by tomorrow (for the bedframe) or the next day. He still has to finish the hanging cabinets, then he'll be doing the access hatch on our ceiling that will lead to the attic. Ruther and I really DO need the extra space. But so far, I am really happy with the way things are going... =D

4PM

While the boys were outside playing, I thought of taking some photos. It was not a hot day even if it was 4pm. (In the Philippines, by 430-5pm, the sun's rays are no longer too hot - perfect time to go out and play.) I suppose the clouds helped in shielding the sun.

I love this photo. I think it's very dramatic. Plus the silhouette of the tree is amazing.

Photo taken several days ago.

AUSTRALIA

Tita Nicki (who is married to Mama's brother) is urging me and Ruther to try to migrate to Australia. I told her the other night that Ruther and I are considering migrating to Australia or New Zealand after Ruther's stint in his current company ends. We really don't want to be in this position years from now because it's really not a happy situation. We just don't want to keep on living apart. She agreed and suggested that we could stay at their house in Newcastle. Natasha (Tita Nicki's daughter and Ruther's cousin who is here in the Philippines right now) is actually excited about the idea. She said that it will be great to have us there since they are the only family living in Australia as it is.

Ruther and I have been talking about migrating for the past 5 years or so. We have tried to weigh everything and consider everything and it came down to New Zealand and Australia because of the existence of relatives, because it's easier and because these 2 countries seem like nice places to live and work and bring up a family. Also, with family to guide and help us, we won't be fearful of the unknown. Of course, I would have wanted to migrate to Japan instead but well, I have to be practical about it because of the high standard of living and language and cost of education. I suppose I could just visit Japan every once in a while. That wouldn't be so bad...

Anyway, who knows what the future holds for us? We just might make it there in a couple of years. As long as my family is happy, healthy and together, anywhere is home for me.

ALL I HAVE

Jennifer Lopez
featuring LL Cool J


Love is life and life is livin
'It's very special
All my love...

Oh...oh...oh...oh...oh...
(Baby, don't go)
(Baby, don't go) Yeah
(Baby, don't go, uh)
(Baby, don't go) Yeah
(Baby, don't go)
(Baby, don't go) Yeah, yeah
(Why you act like that)

It's such a shame, but I'm leavin'
Can't take the way you mistreated me
And it's crazy, but oh, baby
It don't matter, whatever, don't phase me

I don't believe you wanna leave like this
I don't believe I just had my last real kiss
I do believe we'll laugh and reminisce
Wait a minute, don't bounce, baby, let's talk about this, man

Well, I'm bouncin' and I'm out, son

I gotta leave you alone

'Cause I'm good, holdin' my spot

And I'm good reppin' the girls on the block

And I'm good, I got this thing on lock

So without me you'll be fine, right

All my pride is all I have(Pride is what you had, baby girl, I'm what you have)

You'll be needin' me, but too bad(Be easy, don't make decisions when you mad)

You had to your choice to run alone(I know you're independent, you can make it on your own)Here with me you had a home, oh, yeah(But time is of the essence, why spend it alone, huh)

The nights I waited up for you (Oh, boy)

Promises you made about comin' through

So much time you wasted

That's why I had to replace you

Uh, uh, uh

It makes a cat nervous,

the thought of settlin' down

Especially me, I was creepin' all over town

I thought my tender touch could lock you down

I knew I had you, as cocky as it sounds

That's the way you used to giggle right before I put it down

It's better when you angry, come here, I'll prove it now, come here

Stop playin, you gamin'

I gotta leave you alone

'Cause I'm good holdin' my spot (Stop actin' like that)

And I'm good reppin' the girls on the block (Now youknow you need to stop)

And I'm good, I got this thing on lock

So without me you'll be fine, right (Here we go)

All my pride is all I have(Pride is what you had, baby girl, I'm what you have)

You'll be needin' me, but too bad(Be easy, don't make decisions when you mad)

You had to your choice to run alone(I know you're independent, you can make it on your own)Here with me you had a home, oh, yeah(But time is of the essence, why spend it alone, huh)

People make mistakes to make up, to break

To wake up cold and lonely, chill, baby, you know me

You love me, I'm like your homey

Instead of beef you come hold me

I promise I'm not a phony

Don't bounce, baby, console me, come here

Ain't nothin' you can say to me that can change my mind

I gotta let you go now

And nothin' will ever be the same, so just be on your way

Go 'head and do your thing now

And there's no more to explain to me, you no

I know your game and I'm feelin' what you do

SATURDAY

I don't know why but I have been craving for chocolates these past few days. Must have something to do with hormones. Or depression. Or sweet cravings. Anyway, I try to limit my chocolate consumption as much as I can though. Diabetes is in the family...

.....

Nikki is currently interested in geography. I got him a world map puzzle and he loved it! He now knows a lot of countries and their locations (Canada is beside United States, Mexico is below the US, Japan is above the Philippines, etc.). We are also slowly getting to know the continents. Of course, no pressure but the interest is there so I am excited. He also loves the flags! So far he already knows the flags of Japan, Philippines, Indonesia, Egypt, England, Mexico, Australia, China, Canada, United States and some others. We also studied the oceans and the mountains and the rivers. Of course, this did not happen in one sitting. We are still going through it all and then going back for reviews but I am really pleased with Nikki's interest. He is only 5 for goodness' sake! I hope he will continue to have this thirst for knowledge.

Ethan is also starting to speak more these days. He could already form simple sentences although it seems I'm the only one who can understand him. Not that I mind. It's nice being Ethan's only interpreter. Makes the Mommy-Ethan bond more special. =D He's still into bugs. And until he finds something else to pique is interest, I'll have to get used to it. =D

GUITAR

This is one of the guitars bought by Mama when they went to Cebu before. I can't even remember when that was. I was quite pleased that the boys have their guitars even if they are still young. I want them to learn how to play later on. Ruther already knows how to play and he already has his bass guitar. I've always been a piano person so I guess I would not have the patience to learn how to play the guitar. I would like to learn the drums though. I don't know what it is about percussion instruments that make it so appealing to me. =D

Photo taken a few days ago...

HANDEDNESS

I was reading my text book last night when I encountered an interesting topic. Let me share some excerpts:

Ninety percent of all humans are right-handed; 10 percent are left-handed. Right-handed individuals who write with a straight hand and lefties who write with a hooked hand, are usually left-brain dominant for language. Left-handed people who write with their hand below the line, and righties who use a hooked position are usually right-brain dominant. If you gesture mostly with your right hand as you talk, you probably process language in your left hemisphere. Handedness cannot be dictated... To do so may create speech or reading problems. (Coon, 2006)


After reading this, I must say, I am truly left-brain dominant. Not only do I do most things using my right hand (writing, painting, stitching, pointing) but I did a handedness test and all my answers were "right". So I guess I AM right. Ruther is right-handed as well. Nikki and Ethan are too. Everyone in my family are right-handed. And so is everyone in Ruther's family. My textbook further says that handedness is influenced to a degree by heredity. I guess that would explain why all of us are right-handed here at home. Here are more interesting things about handedness:

Lefties are definitely better at visualizing three-dimensional objects. This may be why there are more left-handed architects, artists and chess players than would be expected. In general, left-handers are more symmetrical on almost everything, including eye dominance, fingerprints - even foot size. (Coon, 2006)


Interesting, isn't it? I did have some left-handed classmates in high school who were really great artists. So I always wondered WHY left-handed people are so artistic. Now I know. =D

So, are you a leftie or a rightie?

FINALLY!

I am so psyched!

The carpenter I have been waiting for ages finally came today. No, it's not like he took his sweet time coming. It's just that there were some hiring problems with 2 previous carpenters so I was starting to get frustrated. Why shouldn't I when there is still a lot to be done in the room?

Anyway, I asked one of the workers to please help look for a reliable carpenter for me because I want to have the room fixed already! It's just taking too long and I want to be able to organize our room. So one of the workers suggested this guy who did some carpentry in a nearby house. I agreed. That was yesterday. And he finally came today!!

When I saw the carpenter I was a bit skeptical because he was older than I expected him to be. But it turns out, he really knows what he's doing. Right away he started cutting and drilling and hammering. I was amazed at how fast he was working. This was the result at the end of the day:

This going to be our book/DVD shelf. Ruther wants to keep his DVDs "within reach". =D

This is where the hanging cabinets are going to be. These might be done by tomorrow, I guess...

Not bad, right? I am actually really happy with the way he is working. I mean, for P400/day pay, Manong is really worth it. After he does the shelves and cabinets, he'll be doing the bedframe and then the access to the attic and then fix the doors/change the hinges. Ooooh! Can't wait to get everything done!!!

DRAGONFLY

I caught this dragonfly the other night. Ethan is so interested in bugs and I thought it would be nice to show him a real dragonfly. He was really delighted at the insect. When he saw me holding it, he grabbed his Insects book and looked for the photo of the dragonfly. He was so cute! Anyway, there was a piece of wood outside our window and I placed the dragonfly on it. It didn't fly away which pleased Ethan to no end and he would go to the window every so often just to take a quick peek at the insect. =D

I can't even recall the last time I caught a dragonfly. I think it probably was when I was in High School! So it's a good thing I was able to catch this little bugger. =D Of course, one quick photo before I let it go...

FLOWERS AND FRUIT

Whether it's for sympathy, for love, or just because you can, Vogue flowers is the only place you'll ever need to visit for all of your fresh flowers and fruit baskets needs. They have the best selection of all your favorite flowers, which is why they've been the Richmond florist that everybody prefers for over 20 years. Check out their website, order some flowers, and you'll see what I'm talking about.

LESS GORILLAS NOW

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070912/ap_on_re_eu/endangered_gorillas;_ylt=Amn1Ls9pWVPKh16e6Ww_Efus0NUE

Gorillas now 'critically endangered'
By ERICA BULMAN, Associated Press Writer
Wed Sep 12, 4:10 PM ET

GENEVA - The most common type of gorilla is now "critically endangered," one step away from global extinction, according to the 2007 Red List of Threatened Species released Wednesday by the World Conservation Union.

The Ebola virus is depleting Western Gorilla populations to a point where it might become impossible for them to recover.

Commercial hunting, civil unrest and habitat loss due to logging and forest clearance for palm oil plantations are compounding the problem, said the Swiss-based group known by its acronym IUCN.

"Great apes are our closest living relatives and very special creatures," Russ Mittermeier, head of IUCN's Primate Specialist Group, told The Associated Press. "We could fit all the remaining great apes in the world into two or three large football stadiums. There just aren't very many left."

In all, 16,306 species are threatened with extinction, 188 more than last year, IUCN said. One in four mammals are in jeopardy, as are one in eight birds, a third of all amphibians and 70 percent of the plants that have been studied.

"Life on Earth is disappearing fast and will continue to do so unless urgent action is taken," the IUCN warned.

The Western Gorilla's main subspecies — the Western Lowland Gorilla — has been decimated by the Ebola virus, which has wiped out about a third of the gorillas found in protected areas over the last 15 years.

"In the last 10 years, Ebola is the single largest killer of apes. Poaching is a close second," said Peter Walsh, a member if IUCN's Primate Specialist Group, told the AP. "Ebola is knocking down populations to a level where they won't bounce back. The rate of decline is dizzying. If it continues, we'll lose them in 10-12 years."

Female gorillas only start reproducing at the age of 9 or 10 and only have one baby about every five years. Walsh said even in ideal conditions, it would take the gorillas decades to bounce back.
The World Conservation Union also said the Yangtze River dolphin is now "possibly extinct."

There have been no documented sightings of the long-snouted cetacean since 2002. An intensive search of its habitat in November and December proved fruitless but more searches are needed as one was possibly spotted in late August.

The Redheaded Vulture soared from "near threatened" to "critically endangered." The birds' rapid decline over the last eight years is largely due to diclofenac, a painkiller given to ill or injured farm cattle so they can still work. But the substance poisons the vultures when they scavenge livestock carcasses.

Only 182 breeding adults of the Gharial crocodile remain, down almost 60 percent from a decade ago. India and Nepal's crocodile has become critically endangered because dams, irrigation projects and artificial embankments have reduced its habitat to just 2 percent of its former range.

The woolly-stalked begonia is the only species declared extinct this year. Extensive searches have failed to uncover any specimens of the Malaysian herb in the last century, IUCN said.

Only one species moved to a lesser category of threat. One of the world's rarest parrots 15 years ago, the Mauritius Echo parakeet, eased back from critically endangered to only endangered.

That was a result of close monitoring of its nesting sites, and supplementary feeding combined with a captive breeding and release program.

IUCN says 785 species have disappeared over the last 500 years. A further 65 are found only in artificial settings such as zoos.

The Red List, produced by a worldwide network of thousands of experts, includes some 41,000 species and subspecies around the globe.

STUDY TIME

I am spending most of my days studying now. Which is not a problem for me but will mean less blogging time. Oh well. I made a choice so I should stick to it til the end. I'm actually quite enjoying this latest module. It's all very interesting and very detailed. Which means, I should not lose focus. I plan to finish this textbook by end of September. That's not too farfetched, is it?

.....

It rained again today. Not really stormy, just good old shower. It did clean the air and made everything look so fresh and clean. Except for the junk around the house, that is...

DEJA VU

Have you ever dreamt the same dream? I have. Last night. I cannot recall when I first dreamed the dream. It seems like it happened ages ago. But last night, I KNEW I dreamed that dream. It was very similar to watching the same movie. You actually know what's going to happen next. And it happened as you expected it to - no changes, no deviations from the original plot. It seemed, I could hear myself think, "this is what's going to happen next" and it usually does. Funnily, I also heard my thoughts say, "this is really strange" when the dream unfolded just the way it was before... It was really ... weird. And a bit creepy because this never happened to me before.

And now the questions: Did I really dream this dream before, or did I experience it and mistakingly thought I dreamt it? If I DID dream it, are there other cases where the sleeper got to dream the exact same dream? Was this the first time I had dream deja vu or did I do it several times in the past but when I woke up, forgot all about it in consciousness? I may not know the answer to these questions at this time but I'm just happy that my mind stores my memories well. I just hope someone up there sweeps away the cobwebs and dustballs in the process...

ROOSTER

This bird wakes us up in the mornings these days. Russell has already complained about his crowing since it usually loves to crow VERY early in the morning and right outside Russell's window. I once heard it crowing at 1am!! If it doesn't shut up it might end up on our dining table. =D

Photo taken a few days ago.

EARLY BIRD

I had to wake up early this morning. Ruther wanted to go to work early today because he had to talk to his sensei about something so he was thinking of waking up at 630am aside from his usual 720. Since I know how hard it is for him to wake and get up, I told him I'll ring him up at that time just to make sure he wakes up. He of course, didn't want me to because that's around 530am here. But I insisted. So adjusting the time a bit (because I know Ruther would NOT get up on the first ring of his alarm clock), I woke up at the 540am alarm of my cellphone and promptly called him. While we were talking, I heard his alarm clock sound in the background. Waking Ruther up in the mornings is mostly a challenge so I hope that he DID get up after I hung up on him. I'll know for sure later.

LADIES' GOLF APPAREL

If you desire to look chic and trendy on the fairways and greens, womensgolfproshop.com is for you. Check out the ladies' golf apparel. They have great designs for skorts; really comfy and really feminine. If you're not so keen on skorts, you can take your pick among the many shorts designs. Their tops (polos, sleeveless tops, jerseys) are not only fashionable, but they are comfortable, functional and the special fabric keeps you cool. They also have ladies' pants, fitness wear and even plus-sized selections! Accessories like belts, socks are also available. You want to look chic while having rounds on a Saturday? Sure. Desire to be sporty during a tournament? Why not? You can take your pick. And not only that, check out their sale items. They are really worth a look. See if you can resist the prices.

golf apparel ladies

PASALUBONG

Russell's wife, Christine arrived today from the US. She is a Filipina working there as a nurse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). It's really a wonderful thing having her home. Since she and Russell have been married in June last year, they haven't been physically together for more than 3 months which is really a sad thing. Christine's work is in the US and could only leave her work a few weeks in a year. So hopefully, she could stay longer so that she and Russell could spend more time together. Russell and Christine are like me and Ruther. We were childhood friends. So it's like I've known Christine for a long time too. And she's a really sweet gal.

This afternoon, I got my pasalubong from her.

Love my new black flats!

Ooooh! New make-up!

Victoria Secret panties.

The boys got a stuffed dinosaur each but Nikki picked the brontosaurus immediately which leaves Ethan with the triceratops. They also got some small cars from Disney Cars. Nice. =D Thanks Tita Christine!

SAND

You would think that he's at the beach right? But the boys were just playing with the sand supposedly used for construction. Since they were really into it, I decided to give them some toys to play with. Just accented the yellow color in this photo. Am quite happy with the result. =D

THE FLIGHT THAT FOUGHT BACK

Last night, I watched a show on the Discovery Channel honoring those people onboard United 93 who gave up their lives to stop a terrorist act. It was sooo sad. It was as if I felt what it was like to be on board that ill-fated aircraft. Then I ended up thinking, what would/could I have done if I was in the same situation? Would I have done something different? How would I be taking it all knowing I would/could die in a few minutes? I thought about those and more and really, I just cried. I cried for the people who bravely fought til the end, I cried for their families, I cried for those people selfish enough to include innocent people in their evil plans. It was just a really really agonizing night for me. Everytime a family member would talk about their departed loved one, I would not stop crying. I wondered, if I were in that plane, would I have stayed on the phone talking to Ruther until the end? Would I have had the courage to do what these brave people did? Sometimes it takes things like these (terrible though they may be) to question the principles and choices we make and will make in life. Sometimes, the situation will be dropped in front of us without warning and we have to rely on our judgment and morals to make the right decision. I cannot say for sure that when that time comes, I will make the right choice. I would want to, but I will never know until I am right smack in the middle of it. I hope these people will always be remembered. They deserve to be remembered. They were just ordinary people who just wanted to go home to their families but fate intervened and they became heroes.


The 40 Heroes of Flight 93 - Passengers & Crew

Christian Adams - The 37-year-old husband and father from Biebelsheim, Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany, was flying to San Francisco for a wine-tasting event as part of his job as director of export for German Wine Institute. Christian Adams left behind a wife, Silke; son, Lukas; and daughter, Theresa.

Lorraine G. Bay, Crew - a 37-year United veteran and senior flight attendant of Flight 93, Lorraine Bay, 58, from East Windsor, N.J. had chosen Flight 93 over another flight because it was nonstop. Lorraine Bay left behind her husband, Erich, and no children.

Todd Beamer - An account manager for Oracle Corporation, this 32-year old father of two was traveling to Redwood Shores, California for a business meeting, and planned to return home on a red-eye flight that night. Todd Beamer left behind his wife, Lisa, and two young sons - David and Drew. Lisa was pregnant with their third child - daughter Morgan - on September 11, 2001. Famous for his "Let's roll" statement made to the passengers as they prepared to try and overpower the hijackers of Flight 93.

Alan Beaven - Alan, a environmental lawyer from Oakland, California, was headed to San Francisco to try a case before leaving on a planned year-long sabbatical to do volunteer work for the SYDA Foundation in Bombay, India. Originally born in New Zealand, Alan Beaven left behind his wife, Kimi; daughter, Sonali; and two sons from a previous marriage, Chris and John.

Mark Bingham - The world-traveling, fun-loving owner of The Bingham Group in San Francisco, California, was heading home after a weekend in New York City on Flight 93. The 31-year-old Mark Bingham left behind his mother, Alice Hoglan, father, Jerry Bingham, and step-mother, Karen Bingham.

Deora Bodley - A junior at Santa Clara University, in San Diego, California, 20-year-old Doera Bodley was returning home from a visit with friends in New Jersey and Connecticut. Deora left behind her mother, Deborah Borza; father, Derrill Bodley; and a half-sister, Murial.

Sandra W. Bradshaw, Crew - A flight attendant on United Airlines Flight 93, Sandy Bradshaw, 38, lived in Greensboro, North Carolina, with her husband, Phil; daughter, Alexandria; son, Nathan; and stepdaughter, Shenan.

Marion Britton - Headed to San Francisco for a computer operations conference with fellow Flight 93 passenger, Waleska Martinez, 53-year-old Marion Britton was an assistant regional director for the U.S. Census Bureau in New York City. She lived in Brooklyn, N.Y. and left behind a brother, Paul, and half-brother, John.

Thomas E. Burnett, Jr. - The 38-year-old family man from San Ramon, California was senior vice president and COO of medical devices company, Thoratec Corporation. Tom Burnett was a passenger on Flight 93, heading home from a business meeting in New Jersey and a weekend in Minnesota and Wisconsin. He left behind his wife, Deena, and three young daughters, Madison, Halley, and Anna Clare.

William Cashman - This fun-loving Ironworker was headed out west, for hiking in Yosemite National Park with his old friend, Patrick Driscoll. William Cashman, age 60, left behind his wife, Margaret, in West New York, N.J.

Georgine Rose Corrigan - A hard-working mother and grandmother, Georgine Corrigan made her living buying and selling antiques, vintage jewelry and clothing. She was returning home to Honolulu, Hawaii, where she lived with her daughter, Laura Brough, after an antiques buying trip to New Jersey.

Patricia Cushing - Mother of five, Patricia Cushing, was traveling on vacation with sister-in-law Jane Folger on Flight 93. Patricia Cushing, 69, was a retired service representative for New Jersey Bell and lived in Bayonne, N.J. She left behind sons Thomas, John and David, and daughters Alicia and Pegeen.

Jason Dahl, Captain - The Captain of United Airlines Flight 93, 43-year-old Jason Dahl was piloting that flight in order to have time off to take his wife to London to celebrate their wedding anniversary on September 14. Jason Dahl is survived by his wife, Sandy, and son, Matthew.

Joseph DeLuca - A trip to California wine county with his new girlfriend, Lindo Gronlund, put Joseph DeLuca on Flight 93 on September 11, 2001. The 52-year-old computer program designer for Pfizer Consumer Healthcare lived in Succasunna, N.J. and left behind parents Joseph Sr. and Felicia, and his sister, Carol Hughes.

Patrick Driscoll - He retired in 1992 from his job as director of software development for regional Bell telephone companies, and started traveling. Flight 93 was the start of a trip with friend and fellow Flight 93 passenger William Cashman to hike in Yosemite National Park, Patrick "Joe" Driscoll, 70, was from Point Pleasant Beach, N.J., and is survived by his wife, Maureen; sons Stephen, Patrick, and Christopher and daughter, Pamela.

Edward Porter Felt - A computer engineer for BEA Systems from Matawan, N.J., Edward Felt was taking Flight 93 to get to a business meeting in San Francisco. The 41-year-old left behind his wife, Sandy, and daughters, Adrienne and Kathryn.

Jane C. Folger - Jane Folger, 73, a retired bank officer from Bayonne, New Jersey, was traveling to San Francisco on vacation with her sister-in-law, Patricia Cushing. She is survived by her children: sons, Robert, Thomas and Michael, and daughter, Kathleen Kulik.

Colleen L. Fraser - A passionate lobbyist for the disabled, Colleen L. Fraser, was born with an inherited bone disorder that kept her height at 4 feet, 6 inches, and made it a little harder for her to get around. The 51-year-old from Elizabeth, N.J., served as executive director for Progressive Center for Independent Living, and vice chairwoman of the New Jersey Developmental Disabilities Council and was on her way to a grant-writing seminar in Reno, Nevada. Colleen Fraser left behind a sister, Christine Fraser; brother, Bruce James Fraser; two stepsisters and six stepbrothers.

Andrew Garcia - He was 62, but most people wouldn't have believed it if they met him. Andrew Garcia kept active, both physically and mentally, and loved to play tricks on people. The President and founder of Cinco Group, Inc. was returning home from a business meeting on September 11, 2001. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy; daughters, Kelly Garcia and Audrey Olive; and son, Andrew.

Jeremy Glick - This fun-loving sales manager for Vividence, Inc. lived in Hewitt, N.J. with his wife, Lyzbeth and infant daughter, Emerson. Jeremy Glick was on his way to California for a business trip.

Lauren Grandcolas - A 38-year-old advertising sales consultant for Good Housekeeping magazine, Lauren Grandcolos was returning home on Flight 93 from her grandmother's funeral in New Jersey. She left behind her husband, Jack.

Wanda A. Green, Crew - The proud mother of son, Joe Benjamin, and daughter, Jennifer, United Airlines flight attendant also worked as a real-estate agent, and had plans to open her own real-estate office. Wanda Green, 49, was from Linden, N.J.

Donald F. Greene - Executive vice president and chief financial officer of Safe Flight Instrument Corporation, Donald Green, 52, lived in Greenwich, Connecticut. He was on Flight 93 on a trip to join four of his brothers for a hiking trip before attending an aviation industry convention. Donald Green is survived by wife, Claudette; son, Charlie; and daughter, Jody.

Linda Gronlund - It was to be a short business trip, and then a birthday tour through California wine country with boyfriend, Joe DeLuca. But for 47-year-old Linda Gronlund from Greenwood Lake, N.Y. it didn't quite work out that way. The manager of environmental compliance for BMW North America, Linda Gronlund left behind her mother, Doris; father, Gunnar; and sister, Elsa Strong.

Richard Guadagno - A longtime employee of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Rich Guadagno was employed as manager of the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Service. He was headed home to Eureka, California, after celebrating his grandmother's 100th birthday. Rich Guadagno left behind his parents, Beatrice and Jerry, and sister, Lori.

LeRoy Homer, Jr., First Officer - A graduate of the Air Force Academy and veteran of the Persion Gulf War, First Officer LeRoy Homer, Jr., 36, was in his sixth year with United Airlines. He left behind his wife, Melodie, and a young daughter, Laurel.

Toshiya Kuge - Following a summer vacation in America and Canada, student Toshiya Kuge was headed back for his second year of college in Japan when he boarded Flight 93. The 20-year-old from Toyonaka City, Osaka Prefecture, Japan, was a sophomore at Waseda University in Tokyo. He is survived by his parents, Yachiyo and Hajime.

CeeCee Lyles, Crew - Former police officer and United Airlines flight attendent CeeCee Lyles was a 33-year-old wife and mother from Fort Myers, Florida. She left behind husband, Lorne and sons, Jerome Smith, Jevon Castrillo, Justin Lyles and Jordan Lyles.

Hilda Marcin - Born Hildegarde Zill in Schwedelbach, Germany, Flight 93 passenger Hilda Marcin was a retired teacher's aide and bookkeeper from Mount Olive, N.J. She was traveling on Flight 93 to California to live with her younger daughter, Carole O'Hare. She is also survived by her other daughter, Elizabeth Kemmerer.

Waleska Martinez - She was traveling with co-worker Marion Britton to a computer operations conference in San Francisco when Flight 93 went down in Shanksville, PA, on September 11, 2001. The 37-year-old Puerto Rican from Jersey City, N.J. worked as a supervisory computer specialist for the New York regional office of the U.S. Census Bureau. Waleska Martinez is survived by parents, Juan and Irma Martinez; brothers Juan Jr. and Reinaldo; and sister, Lourdes Lebron.

Nicole Miller - A 21-year-old senior at West Valley College in San Jose, California, Nicole Miller was returning home after a vacation in New York and New Jersey with her boyfriend, Ryan Brown. She leaves behind her mother, Cathy Stefani; stepfather, Wayne Stefani; father, David Miller; stepmother, Catherine Miller; sister, Tiffney Miller; half-sister, Danielle Miller; half-brothers, Wayne Stefani Jr. and David Miller, Jr.

Louis J. Nacke, II - A distribution manager for Kay-Bee Toys, Lou Nacke, 42, from New Hope, Pennsylvania, was on his way to Sacramento for a business trip. He leaves behind wife, Amy and sons, Joseph Nicholas and Louis Paul II.

Donald Peterson - Half of the only married couple on Flight 93, Don Peterson, 66, was a retired president of Continental Electric Co. He worked with his wife, Jean, as a church and community volunteer in their town of Spring Lake, N.J. The couple was on their way to a family reunion at Yosemite National Park. Don Peterson left behind his sons, David, Hamilton and Royster Peterson, and stepdaughters.

Jean Hoadley Peterson - Wife of Don Peterson (above), Jean Peterson also devoted herself as a church and community volunteer. She was a retired nurse and nursing teacher, and this was her second marriage. Jean Peterson is survived by her daughters, Jennifer Grace and Catherine Price, and stepsons.

Mark Rothenberg - Called Mickey by his family and friends, Mark Rothenberg was on his way to Taiwan for business for his company, MDR Global Resources. The 52-year-old from Scotch Plains, N.J. is survived by his wife, Meredith, and daughters, Sara and Rachel.

Christine Snyder - Native Hawaiian Christine Snyder, 32, worked as a certified arborist for The Outdoor Circle, a nonprofit environmental group. She was returning home to her husband, Tom, in Kailua, Hawaii, after attending the American Forestry Conference in Washington, D.C. and a visit to New York City.

John Talignani - Retired bartender John Talignani, from Staten Island, N.Y., was headed to California on Flight 93 to claim the body of his stepson, Alan Zykofsky, who had just died in a car crash. John Talignani is survived by his stepsons, Mitchell Zykosfky and Glenn Zykosfky.

Honor Elizabeth Wainio - A 27-year-old regional manager for Discovery Channel stores from Watchung, N.J., Honor Wainio was on her way to a company-wide business meeting on September 11, 2001. She left behind her father, Ben Wainio; mother, Mary White; stepfather, Jay White; brother, Tom Wainio; and sister, Sarah Wainio.

Deborah Ann Jacobs Welsh, Crew - Debbie Welsh, the 49-year-old United Airlines flight attendant who served as purser on Flight 93, was a native of New York City, N.Y. She is survived by her husband, Patrick.

Kristin Gould White - This freelance medical writer from New York City was on her way to visit friends in California. Kristin White, 65, is survived by her daughter, Allison Vadhan.