I saw this keychain at Daiso. Isn't it cute? I got one for my sister and I'll probably buy one for myself too before I go home. Kawaii indeed. =D
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
STAYING HOME
Ruther did not go to work today still but he is definitely getting better. Although last night, his cough was really bad and I woke up several times when he coughed loudly. Good thing this morning, his coughs were less and his fever is completely gone. I let him eat some oranges for Vitamin C and they were yummy (I ate a few too). =D
Tomorrow, he is sure to go back to work. He'll be bringing his pasalubong from Manila and hopefully, everyone will enjoy them.
.....
Ruther and I have been watching this Japanese drama titled Oishii Puropozu (Delicious Proposal). It's a cute story although Ruther did not like it that much because he said it was too well, far from reality. It's true. The story was cute but well, it's a watch-it-once drama...
So far, my favorite Japanese drama is Gokusen 1 and 2. It's really funny and I enjoyed watching it so much! It's about a girl who's from a Yakuza family but instead of becoming the boss, she told her ojisan (grandfather) that she wants to be a teacher instead. Really, this story is full of laughs and lessons. Wanna watch this again. Maybe when I go back to Manila so I could brush up on some of my Nihongo phrases.
.....
Ruther and I also watched a movie this afternoon. Just My Luck who stars Lindsay Lohan. I like this girl a lot, despite those negative news/reports about her. I think she's a nice, down-to-earth girl with real talent for singing and acting. Anyway, the movie was a light one. Perfect for an afternoon cuddle with a sweetie. Besides, I believe in the theme of the movie about luck and karma. Well, watch it when you can because it's nice. =D
Tomorrow, he is sure to go back to work. He'll be bringing his pasalubong from Manila and hopefully, everyone will enjoy them.
.....
Ruther and I have been watching this Japanese drama titled Oishii Puropozu (Delicious Proposal). It's a cute story although Ruther did not like it that much because he said it was too well, far from reality. It's true. The story was cute but well, it's a watch-it-once drama...
So far, my favorite Japanese drama is Gokusen 1 and 2. It's really funny and I enjoyed watching it so much! It's about a girl who's from a Yakuza family but instead of becoming the boss, she told her ojisan (grandfather) that she wants to be a teacher instead. Really, this story is full of laughs and lessons. Wanna watch this again. Maybe when I go back to Manila so I could brush up on some of my Nihongo phrases.
.....
Ruther and I also watched a movie this afternoon. Just My Luck who stars Lindsay Lohan. I like this girl a lot, despite those negative news/reports about her. I think she's a nice, down-to-earth girl with real talent for singing and acting. Anyway, the movie was a light one. Perfect for an afternoon cuddle with a sweetie. Besides, I believe in the theme of the movie about luck and karma. Well, watch it when you can because it's nice. =D
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
SOME FACTS ABOUT JAPAN
Mount Fuji is a sacred mountain for the Japanese. Pilgrimages are made to the mountain every year.
The Japanese word for Japan, Nihon (Nippon), means source of the sun.
The Ainu, the original inhabitants of Japan, are related to the people of Siberia.
Some of the oldest pottery in the world comes from Japan's Jomon Period (10,000 - 300 BC).
Seppuku, or hara-kiri, is ritual suicide by disembowelment and was considered an honorable way of dying, as defeated Roman generals were said to fall on their swords.
Japan has the highest density of robots in the world. There are approximately 800,00 industrial-use robots in operation around the world, and fully half of them in Japan. That's about 1 robot for every 310 people in Japan.
The most-visited amusement park in the world is Tokyo Disneyland. Opened in 1983, more than 17 million people visit it each year.
Japan has more active volcanoes than any other country in the world, with more than 10% of all the earth's volcanoes.
The longest transportation tunnel in the world is the Seikan tunnel connecting the main island of Honshu to Hokkaido.
The longest suspension bridge in the world is the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge connecting Kobe with Awaji Island.
The Japanese word for Japan, Nihon (Nippon), means source of the sun.
The Ainu, the original inhabitants of Japan, are related to the people of Siberia.
Some of the oldest pottery in the world comes from Japan's Jomon Period (10,000 - 300 BC).
Seppuku, or hara-kiri, is ritual suicide by disembowelment and was considered an honorable way of dying, as defeated Roman generals were said to fall on their swords.
Japan has the highest density of robots in the world. There are approximately 800,00 industrial-use robots in operation around the world, and fully half of them in Japan. That's about 1 robot for every 310 people in Japan.
The most-visited amusement park in the world is Tokyo Disneyland. Opened in 1983, more than 17 million people visit it each year.
Japan has more active volcanoes than any other country in the world, with more than 10% of all the earth's volcanoes.
The longest transportation tunnel in the world is the Seikan tunnel connecting the main island of Honshu to Hokkaido.
The longest suspension bridge in the world is the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge connecting Kobe with Awaji Island.
A GOOD LIFE IS A MAIN ARGUMENT. -Ben Jonson
Ruther is staying home today. He is still not fit to go back to work but it's a good thing that his fever seems to be going away. I do need to monitor him still for the rest of the day, but I'm not too worried any more. Hopefully, his headaches will go away as he gets better too.
I made him some lugaw for lunch and he finished the bowl. He might get hungry again in a few hours so I'll have to think of something to cook for him then.
.....
Twenty-seven more days and we're going home... Sigh...
I made him some lugaw for lunch and he finished the bowl. He might get hungry again in a few hours so I'll have to think of something to cook for him then.
.....
Twenty-seven more days and we're going home... Sigh...
Monday, January 29, 2007
HOME SICK
Ruther is back with us. Unfortunately, all the activities of the past days, the stress of travelling and the lack of rest made him sick at this time. When I spoke to him last night on the phone he already sounded bad and I knew he was coming down with something. I thought it would just be some cough and sniffles but a few hours ago, he developed a slight fever and I told him to just take it easy. He's now asleep trying to get some much needed rest. I have been trying to keep the boys off him and been trying to keep them quiet, which is not an easy feat. But still, they were cooperative (good thing) and Ruther has been napping for almost 2 hours. If he doesn't get better, he might need a sponge bath and some meds. I guess this means I'm on nurse duty tonight. =P
.....
I have finished watching season 1 of Veronica Mars. I really like how the story progresses every episode. It's not boring at all. I'll start watching season 2 tomorrow or maybe the day after. Ruther and I still have a lot of shows to watch (the ones we missed from Thursday til Saturday). After that, then maybe I could continue with the Veronica Mars episodes.
.....
Ruther brought back a lot of pasalubong. And I mean A LOT! There's tocino (cured pork), beef tapa, longganisa (Filipino-style sausages), hotdogs, sisig, chocolates, brownies, buko pie, ice cream, snacks, prawn crackers, cheese, and a whole lot more! The boys already ate some hotdogs for supper and they really enjoyed it! =D Of course, I ate some too, as I am a Tender Juicy Hotdogs kinda girl. Just love their hotdogs. Never ever dry and always tasty. Okay, I'll stop now. I know I'm starting to sound like an ad. =P More eating to do later...
Somebody stop me... =D
.....
I have finished watching season 1 of Veronica Mars. I really like how the story progresses every episode. It's not boring at all. I'll start watching season 2 tomorrow or maybe the day after. Ruther and I still have a lot of shows to watch (the ones we missed from Thursday til Saturday). After that, then maybe I could continue with the Veronica Mars episodes.
.....
Ruther brought back a lot of pasalubong. And I mean A LOT! There's tocino (cured pork), beef tapa, longganisa (Filipino-style sausages), hotdogs, sisig, chocolates, brownies, buko pie, ice cream, snacks, prawn crackers, cheese, and a whole lot more! The boys already ate some hotdogs for supper and they really enjoyed it! =D Of course, I ate some too, as I am a Tender Juicy Hotdogs kinda girl. Just love their hotdogs. Never ever dry and always tasty. Okay, I'll stop now. I know I'm starting to sound like an ad. =P More eating to do later...
Somebody stop me... =D
INTERESTING MAN-WOMAN FACTS
Men are more likely than women to run stoplights. Women are more likely to switch lanes without signaling.
Men get hiccups more often than women. No one knows why.
On average, a woman's heart beats faster than a man's.
Twenty-five percent of men wait until "a few weeks" before Christmas to do their holiday shopping. Fifteen percent of women start Christmas shopping in July.
When snow skiing, most men fall on their faces. Most women fall on their behinds.
Men get more ulcers. Women get more migraine headaches.
On average, females hear better than males at every age.
Men get hiccups more often than women. No one knows why.
On average, a woman's heart beats faster than a man's.
Twenty-five percent of men wait until "a few weeks" before Christmas to do their holiday shopping. Fifteen percent of women start Christmas shopping in July.
When snow skiing, most men fall on their faces. Most women fall on their behinds.
Men get more ulcers. Women get more migraine headaches.
On average, females hear better than males at every age.
FINALLY
At last, it is Monday again. Today, Ruther will be coming back to Japan. Hopefully, he'll be here by 5pm. His arrival time is around 230pm, I think and then he has to get his bags and take the limousine bus to Yokohama City Air Terminal (YCAT) which will take an hour or so. We'll be meeting him there. At first, we were kinda doubtful if we could meet him because the weather forecast yesterday said that it'll probably be rainy today but when I checked again this morning, it's not. It'll just be cloudy. So, yay! We could all go and pick Ruther up at YCAT! Can't wait to see him! Can't believe I missed him so much and it was only 4 days!!
He already called twice this morning. The first one was when he was leaving the house for the airport (his mom and brother brought him) and the second one to complain about the long line at the check-in counter. By the sound of his voice, I think he's coming down with something. I know him too well to know that. He'll need to take more Vitamin C when he's here. Even Nikki has a bit of the sniffles. But it's nothing serious yet. Am trying to make sure he's always warm and taking his vitamins. Don't want him to get sick here. I'll be so worried.
Ruther might call again later before boarding so I'll just go back to sleep after he takes off. I'm such a light sleeper, I'll probably get a headache from all this calls. When he called up this morning (the first call), I answered it on the second ring. I sometimes think I sleep with one eye open. =D
He already called twice this morning. The first one was when he was leaving the house for the airport (his mom and brother brought him) and the second one to complain about the long line at the check-in counter. By the sound of his voice, I think he's coming down with something. I know him too well to know that. He'll need to take more Vitamin C when he's here. Even Nikki has a bit of the sniffles. But it's nothing serious yet. Am trying to make sure he's always warm and taking his vitamins. Don't want him to get sick here. I'll be so worried.
Ruther might call again later before boarding so I'll just go back to sleep after he takes off. I'm such a light sleeper, I'll probably get a headache from all this calls. When he called up this morning (the first call), I answered it on the second ring. I sometimes think I sleep with one eye open. =D
Sunday, January 28, 2007
SOME PHILIPPINE WORLD RECORDS
source: http://www.txtmania.com/trivia/world.php
The Leaf Musician
He became famous around the world for his distinct talent. The Guinness Book of World Records has recognized Filipino National Artist Levi Celerio as the only man who could play beautiful music with a leaf.Celerio appeared in "That's Incredible" and the Mel Griffin show where he played music with a leaf. The Guinness Book of World Records said: "The only leaf player in the world is in the Philippines". As a composer and lyricist, Celerio wrote more than 4,000 songs.
The Woman With 3,400 Shoes
Former First Lady Imelda Marcos was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the woman with the largest collection of shoes. Reports said that when the Marcos family fled to Hawaii during the People's Power Revolution in 1986, around 3,400 pairs of shoes were discovered in one room at Malacanang Palace. They were the First Lady's collection.In 1987, Mrs. Marcos denied this and claimed she had only 1,060 pairs of shoes. The former First Lady has an eight-and-a-half inch footwear size. She said her having many shoes is not a symbol of extravagance but an expression of love and appreciation for Filipino-made shoes. Most of her shoes, she added, were bought from Marikina, the shoe capital of the Philippines. For this, Marikina City had acquired 200 pairs of the Marcos shoes and put them on display at the city's shoe museum.
World's Sweetest Fruit
What can be considered as the world's sweetest mango is produced in the island province of Guimaras. While other countries have different varieties of the tropical mango (Mangifera indica), none of them tastes like the superbly delicious Guimaras mango, which is a variety of the popular Carabao Mango (Manginera indica).In 1995, the Guinness Book of World records listed the Carabao Mango as the sweetest fruit in the world. In the Philippines, mango ranks third among fruit crops in production, next to banana and pineapple. The country supplies mangoes to Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore and recently the United States. In 1995, the Philippines produced 432,322 metric tons of mangoes, with an average production of 6.35 metric tons per hectare and 250 kilograms per tree from a total production area of 68,056 hectares.
World's Largest Lantern
On December 24, 2002, the city of San Fernando in Pampanga province switched on the world's largest Christmas lantern - a P5-million structure with 26.8 meters in diameter.
World's Fastest Reader
As a student at the Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois, Maria Teresa Calderon became the world's fastest reader. She set the record of having read 80,000 words per hour.
Sili King
The Guinness Book of World Records recognizes Eriberto Gonzales of Camalig, Albay as the fastest chili eater. In the Philippines, he is known as the "Sili King". Gonzales accomplished his feat in the "Sili-Eating Challenge 1999" in Bicol where he ate 350 pieces of sili in three minutes. (Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer)
World's Largest Synchronized Aerobics Exercises
On February 16, 2003, some 107,000 Filipinos joined a 30-minute aerobics exercise supervised by the Department of Health (DOH) at Rizal Park in Manila, which could be the largest synchronized exercise in the world. Thousands of people also gathered at different venues in Cebu City and Davao City to participate in the exercise simultaneous with the Manila event. The new record broke the previous Guinness Book of World Records set at a park in Guadalajara, Mexico by some 38,633 people who joined the massive aerobics exercises in June 1998.
World's Largest Shoes
In December 2002, the Guinness Book of World Records has recognized Marikina City for crafting the world's largest pair of shoes - each measuring 5.5 meters (18.2 feet) long, 2.25 meters (7.4 feet) wide and 1.83 meters (six feet) high. The materials for the P1.2 million pair of shoes could produce 250 pairs of regular shoes.
World's Largest Pearl
A Filipino diver discovered what is now described as the world's largest pearl in a giant Tridacna (mollusk) under the Palawan Sea in 1934. Known as the "Pearl of Lao-Tzu", the gem weighs 14 pounds and measures 9 ½ inches long and 5 ½ inches in diameter. As of May 1984, it was valued at US$42 million. It is believed to be 600 years old.
The Leaf Musician
He became famous around the world for his distinct talent. The Guinness Book of World Records has recognized Filipino National Artist Levi Celerio as the only man who could play beautiful music with a leaf.Celerio appeared in "That's Incredible" and the Mel Griffin show where he played music with a leaf. The Guinness Book of World Records said: "The only leaf player in the world is in the Philippines". As a composer and lyricist, Celerio wrote more than 4,000 songs.
The Woman With 3,400 Shoes
Former First Lady Imelda Marcos was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the woman with the largest collection of shoes. Reports said that when the Marcos family fled to Hawaii during the People's Power Revolution in 1986, around 3,400 pairs of shoes were discovered in one room at Malacanang Palace. They were the First Lady's collection.In 1987, Mrs. Marcos denied this and claimed she had only 1,060 pairs of shoes. The former First Lady has an eight-and-a-half inch footwear size. She said her having many shoes is not a symbol of extravagance but an expression of love and appreciation for Filipino-made shoes. Most of her shoes, she added, were bought from Marikina, the shoe capital of the Philippines. For this, Marikina City had acquired 200 pairs of the Marcos shoes and put them on display at the city's shoe museum.
World's Sweetest Fruit
What can be considered as the world's sweetest mango is produced in the island province of Guimaras. While other countries have different varieties of the tropical mango (Mangifera indica), none of them tastes like the superbly delicious Guimaras mango, which is a variety of the popular Carabao Mango (Manginera indica).In 1995, the Guinness Book of World records listed the Carabao Mango as the sweetest fruit in the world. In the Philippines, mango ranks third among fruit crops in production, next to banana and pineapple. The country supplies mangoes to Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore and recently the United States. In 1995, the Philippines produced 432,322 metric tons of mangoes, with an average production of 6.35 metric tons per hectare and 250 kilograms per tree from a total production area of 68,056 hectares.
World's Largest Lantern
On December 24, 2002, the city of San Fernando in Pampanga province switched on the world's largest Christmas lantern - a P5-million structure with 26.8 meters in diameter.
World's Fastest Reader
As a student at the Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois, Maria Teresa Calderon became the world's fastest reader. She set the record of having read 80,000 words per hour.
Sili King
The Guinness Book of World Records recognizes Eriberto Gonzales of Camalig, Albay as the fastest chili eater. In the Philippines, he is known as the "Sili King". Gonzales accomplished his feat in the "Sili-Eating Challenge 1999" in Bicol where he ate 350 pieces of sili in three minutes. (Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer)
World's Largest Synchronized Aerobics Exercises
On February 16, 2003, some 107,000 Filipinos joined a 30-minute aerobics exercise supervised by the Department of Health (DOH) at Rizal Park in Manila, which could be the largest synchronized exercise in the world. Thousands of people also gathered at different venues in Cebu City and Davao City to participate in the exercise simultaneous with the Manila event. The new record broke the previous Guinness Book of World Records set at a park in Guadalajara, Mexico by some 38,633 people who joined the massive aerobics exercises in June 1998.
World's Largest Shoes
In December 2002, the Guinness Book of World Records has recognized Marikina City for crafting the world's largest pair of shoes - each measuring 5.5 meters (18.2 feet) long, 2.25 meters (7.4 feet) wide and 1.83 meters (six feet) high. The materials for the P1.2 million pair of shoes could produce 250 pairs of regular shoes.
World's Largest Pearl
A Filipino diver discovered what is now described as the world's largest pearl in a giant Tridacna (mollusk) under the Palawan Sea in 1934. Known as the "Pearl of Lao-Tzu", the gem weighs 14 pounds and measures 9 ½ inches long and 5 ½ inches in diameter. As of May 1984, it was valued at US$42 million. It is believed to be 600 years old.
BEAUTIFUL SUNDAY
I was up until past 3 this morning (which is why I woke up late). Since I had difficulty sleeping (this - early - morning) I watched some episodes of Veronica Mars and just munched on some chips. I 'm on season one and on episode 4. Ruther started watching this and told me to watch it too because it's my kind of theme: solving crimes. Well it's nice. There's always a nice story every episode. Will continue watching later when the boys are asleep.
.....
The apartment inspection is going to be this afternoon and I have yet to clean the bathroom. But I'm not too worried because that's the only thing left to do and I could do that in 30 minutes. The boys and I have to go out now to buy some milk and diapers so til later...
.....
The apartment inspection is going to be this afternoon and I have yet to clean the bathroom. But I'm not too worried because that's the only thing left to do and I could do that in 30 minutes. The boys and I have to go out now to buy some milk and diapers so til later...
Saturday, January 27, 2007
SPIC AND SPAN
There's going to be another apartment inspection tomorrow and even if Ruther is not around, I still have to do the cleaning. So today, I started with the chores. I dusted everything, fixed the toys (although this will be messy again in a few hours), cleaned the kitchen, vacuumed the living area, swept the kitchen floor, wiped the counters, washed the blankets and aired the comforters and futons. Tomorrow, I'll have to clean the toilet and bathroom and then do a bit more of cleaning in the living and kitchen area. Good thing the apartment is just a small place. =D
.....
Ruther called around lunchtime. For today they have team-building activities planned out so when I was talking to him, he sounded a bit sleepy. He did a bit of swimming last night until around 1am so I guess he lacks sleep. He'll probably call again tonight to check on us.
.....
I checked out countdown meter and guess what? We only have 30 more days before we go home!!! THIRTY days left! Bummer bummer bummer... It seems like just a short while ago when the boys and I came to Japan. And now, in a month's time, we'll be leaving. When we got our visa from the Japan Embassy in Manila, it was surreal to me. Like we were given a great gift and I didn't know what to make of it. Now, after almost 6 months of staying here, the journey is almost over and again, it all feels surreal to me. Sigh. Not only will I miss Japan, but I'll miss Ruther all over again... =(
.....
Ruther called around lunchtime. For today they have team-building activities planned out so when I was talking to him, he sounded a bit sleepy. He did a bit of swimming last night until around 1am so I guess he lacks sleep. He'll probably call again tonight to check on us.
.....
I checked out countdown meter and guess what? We only have 30 more days before we go home!!! THIRTY days left! Bummer bummer bummer... It seems like just a short while ago when the boys and I came to Japan. And now, in a month's time, we'll be leaving. When we got our visa from the Japan Embassy in Manila, it was surreal to me. Like we were given a great gift and I didn't know what to make of it. Now, after almost 6 months of staying here, the journey is almost over and again, it all feels surreal to me. Sigh. Not only will I miss Japan, but I'll miss Ruther all over again... =(
MY LITTLE HELPER
this vacuum cleaner is mine
gotta get all the dirt out...
i'm ironing Daddy's hanky. (Ethan doesn't even realize it's not plugged in! =D)
this is my shirt...
ETHAN, MY HELPER
Ethan loves to help me with chores. He enjoys vacuuming with me, helping me hang the laundry by putting clothespins on them, and he likes to imitate my ironing (of course, I won't let him near the iron while it's hot). He's just the type to find most things fun and I like him like that. At least he has this zest for life and I hope that won't ever change. Many people think Ethan is too hyperactive. I think they just don't understand him. He is full of energy but when tapped the right way, he is very creative and very curious about the world. I hope Ethan will be like this always: spirited, creative, energetic and full of life.
Friday, January 26, 2007
DINNER IN A CUP
I didn't feel like cooking dinner tonight so I thought of eating noodles. I bought a cup of those instant noodles where you simply add hot water, wait 3 minutes and voila! instant dinner. I know... it's not healthy, the preservative content, bad influence on the kids, etc. but well, I just wanted something hot and fast and filling for tonight. It's pretty much okay. I got the tonkotsu flavor and the soup is yummy. The noodles are soft (but not soggy) and I liked it. Ethan ate a few strands but lost interest after a while. I still haven't mastered the art of slurping so I burned my tongue which irritated me a bit because it'll feel like this (somewhat sore) until tomorrow. Oh well. When Ruther comes back, I'm sure homemade meals will be back on the menu. Goody. =D
FLASHBACK 2005 - KARAOKE
singing our hearts out...
L-R: my brother-in-law Russell, my cousin Rizza, my sweetie Ruther, me, my sis
JOYFUL TALKING
I bought this pack of peanuts at Daiso. I suppose I was craving for something to munch on and when I saw this pack, I thought, "why not?" I am, after all, fond of peanuts (especially the roasted ones back home). Well, it was yummy, crunchy and not greasy at all. I usually don't read the packaging of things we buy because they are usually written in Nihongo but when I saw that this pack had some English words on the back of it, I read it. And then burst out laughing. This is what it said:
Well, it was funny to me, especially when you read it out loud, like I did. =D
DAY 2
This is the second day of Ruther's absence here. He called a few minutes ago to just say hi. They had a break from the seminar and he wanted to know how we were doing. So far he's been enjoying this "vacation" and I'm glad. I told him to get a tan while he's there but he said they hardly have any breaks at this time so he might try to go swimming tomorrow. =D
.....
We went to Uositi (the market) today at Kamoi. We didn't buy much because for sure, Ruther will be bringing back a lot of food and pasalubong and I'll have to find a way to fit them all in our small refrigerator.
We also passed by Bookoff, a secondhand store just across Uositi. I wanted to check some skirts there for me but the boys took a long time on the second floor (the toy section) so I was thinking of just going back tomorrow. We were able to get this air hockey toy for only Y700. That's only 285 pesos! Cool deal. Unfortunately, when we got home and the boys excitedly opened it, we realized that we forgot to buy batteries for it. Oh well, we'll just go out again later and buy a set. We still have to buy juice, taco kit and some other stuff we missed the last time we went to the grocery.
.....
Last night, I felt very strange. I was really weird but I felt like I had nothing to do. I tried to while the time away surfing the internet but after a while I got bored. I tried reading and listening to music but they didn't seem to uplift my spirit. I don't know if it's because Ruther's not around. I usually prepare dinner or wait for an email from him that he already left work. Sometimes, I fix the room a bit. But last night was just so dull. Let's see how tonight fares...
.....
We went to Uositi (the market) today at Kamoi. We didn't buy much because for sure, Ruther will be bringing back a lot of food and pasalubong and I'll have to find a way to fit them all in our small refrigerator.
We also passed by Bookoff, a secondhand store just across Uositi. I wanted to check some skirts there for me but the boys took a long time on the second floor (the toy section) so I was thinking of just going back tomorrow. We were able to get this air hockey toy for only Y700. That's only 285 pesos! Cool deal. Unfortunately, when we got home and the boys excitedly opened it, we realized that we forgot to buy batteries for it. Oh well, we'll just go out again later and buy a set. We still have to buy juice, taco kit and some other stuff we missed the last time we went to the grocery.
.....
Last night, I felt very strange. I was really weird but I felt like I had nothing to do. I tried to while the time away surfing the internet but after a while I got bored. I tried reading and listening to music but they didn't seem to uplift my spirit. I don't know if it's because Ruther's not around. I usually prepare dinner or wait for an email from him that he already left work. Sometimes, I fix the room a bit. But last night was just so dull. Let's see how tonight fares...
Thursday, January 25, 2007
LETTERS FROM IWO JIMA
I am not a war movie fanatic, but after watching Saving Private Ryan and Band of Brother
s, I suppose I am willing to broaden my horizons somewhat. I have seen posters around the malls here of the movie, Letters from Iwo Jima, and after reading the plot summary at imdb.com, I guess I am interested to see this. This also won a Golden Globe (Best Foreign Language Film), by the way.
s, I suppose I am willing to broaden my horizons somewhat. I have seen posters around the malls here of the movie, Letters from Iwo Jima, and after reading the plot summary at imdb.com, I guess I am interested to see this. This also won a Golden Globe (Best Foreign Language Film), by the way.I miss going to the movies. But I miss going to the movies with Ruther more... It's been almost 1 1/2 years now since the last time we were in a theatre. I'm looking forward to watching Harry Potter with him in July when he goes home to the Philippines. =D
JANUARY 25
Events that happened on January 25:
1858 - The Wedding March by Felix Mendelssohn becomes a popular wedding recessional after it is played on this day at the marriage of Queen Victoria's daughter, Victoria, and Friedrich of Prussia.
1881 - Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell form the Oriental Telephone Company.
1890 - Nellie Bly completes her round-the-world journey in 72 days.
1915 - Alexander Graham Bell inaugurates U.S. transcontinental telephone service.
1918 - Russia declared a republic of Soviets.
1924 - The 1924 Winter Olympics open in Chamonix, France (in the French Alps), inaugurating the Winter Olympic Games.
1929 - birth of Benny Golson, Jazz Musician
1933 - birth of Corazon Aquino, President of the Philippines
1945 - Battle of the Bulge ends.
1947 - death of Al Capone, American gangster
1971 - Charles Manson and three female "family members" are found guilty of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment.
1980 - birth of Alicia Keys, American singer
1990 - death of Ava Gardner, American actress
1995 - The Norwegian Rocket Incident: Russia almost launches a nuclear attack after Black Brant XII, a Norwegian research rocket, is mistaken for a US Trident missile by the Olenegorsk early-warning radar station.
2004 - Opportunity (MER-B) lands on surface of Mars.
1858 - The Wedding March by Felix Mendelssohn becomes a popular wedding recessional after it is played on this day at the marriage of Queen Victoria's daughter, Victoria, and Friedrich of Prussia.
1881 - Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell form the Oriental Telephone Company.
1890 - Nellie Bly completes her round-the-world journey in 72 days.
1915 - Alexander Graham Bell inaugurates U.S. transcontinental telephone service.
1918 - Russia declared a republic of Soviets.
1924 - The 1924 Winter Olympics open in Chamonix, France (in the French Alps), inaugurating the Winter Olympic Games.
1929 - birth of Benny Golson, Jazz Musician
1933 - birth of Corazon Aquino, President of the Philippines
1945 - Battle of the Bulge ends.
1947 - death of Al Capone, American gangster
1971 - Charles Manson and three female "family members" are found guilty of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment.
1980 - birth of Alicia Keys, American singer
1990 - death of Ava Gardner, American actress
1995 - The Norwegian Rocket Incident: Russia almost launches a nuclear attack after Black Brant XII, a Norwegian research rocket, is mistaken for a US Trident missile by the Olenegorsk early-warning radar station.
2004 - Opportunity (MER-B) lands on surface of Mars.
RANDOM THOUGHTS
Have you read the news lately? It's all about nuclear this and nuclear that, elections here and there, rape, scandal, doomsday approaching, earth dying... Aren't there any good news any more?
.....
Why is it that ladies here in Japan still insist on wearing miniskirts and flimsy blouses in the freezing cold and then surprise! they catch a cold or pneumonia later on and walk around with face masks?
.....
We had lunch at KFC today, me and the boys. I got the 2-piece chicken, a biscuit and a coke. We sat on a table for 4 and Nikki and Ethan were seated together. Midway through lunch, Nikki pointed at the chair beside me and said that it was empty. I asked him, "Do you want to sit beside Mommy?" He replied, "No, Mommy. That's Daddy's chair." Needless to say, that created a huge lump in my throat. And I asked him, "Do you miss Daddy?" He said yes. I just told him not to worry because Daddy will be home on Monday and we could eat at KFC, all four of us. He just nodded his head. He's such a sweet little boy...
.....
It's Ruther's birthday in 13 days and I still have no idea what to get him!! Not only that, I need to think of a Valentine's Day present for him as well. I want to get him something now (while he's away) because it will be very difficult to buy him a present once he's here. This way it'll really be a surprise. =D
.....
Why is it that ladies here in Japan still insist on wearing miniskirts and flimsy blouses in the freezing cold and then surprise! they catch a cold or pneumonia later on and walk around with face masks?
.....
We had lunch at KFC today, me and the boys. I got the 2-piece chicken, a biscuit and a coke. We sat on a table for 4 and Nikki and Ethan were seated together. Midway through lunch, Nikki pointed at the chair beside me and said that it was empty. I asked him, "Do you want to sit beside Mommy?" He replied, "No, Mommy. That's Daddy's chair." Needless to say, that created a huge lump in my throat. And I asked him, "Do you miss Daddy?" He said yes. I just told him not to worry because Daddy will be home on Monday and we could eat at KFC, all four of us. He just nodded his head. He's such a sweet little boy...
.....
It's Ruther's birthday in 13 days and I still have no idea what to get him!! Not only that, I need to think of a Valentine's Day present for him as well. I want to get him something now (while he's away) because it will be very difficult to buy him a present once he's here. This way it'll really be a surprise. =D
BREAD AND PASTRIES
Yesterday, after buying some stuff at the supermarket, we happened to pass by Daiso, the Y100 shop. While checking some of the toys there, Nikki asked me to buy a bread and pastry set. He said he wanted to bring them home. Since I saw this as another lesson for him, I agreed and he was quite delighted about it.
When we arrived home, he opened the pack immediately. I taught him the names of the different bread and pastries but I did not want him to simply know them by sound but by how they were written so I made some labels for him to stick on each plastic toy. He enjoyed the lesson so much, he refused to remove the labels on the toys! When Ethan tried to eat the hotdog, Nikki was cross with him when he found out the label came off. He was so funny! After the lesson, he carefully set aside the toys but kept close watch on them should Ethan try to grab one and eat it. =D
Nikki loves to learn...
making sure all the labels are intact
several hours later, still guarding his tray from Ethan =D
When we arrived home, he opened the pack immediately. I taught him the names of the different bread and pastries but I did not want him to simply know them by sound but by how they were written so I made some labels for him to stick on each plastic toy. He enjoyed the lesson so much, he refused to remove the labels on the toys! When Ethan tried to eat the hotdog, Nikki was cross with him when he found out the label came off. He was so funny! After the lesson, he carefully set aside the toys but kept close watch on them should Ethan try to grab one and eat it. =D
Nikki loves to learn...
making sure all the labels are intact
several hours later, still guarding his tray from Ethan =D
BYE BYE LOVE
5:05am
I really, absolutely and definitely HATE goodbyes.
Ruther just left a few minutes ago. I realized, it really didn't matter if he was going to be away for 2 years, 7 months or 5 days. I still felt the same way every time: utterly miserable. I promised myself I wouldn't cry this time. Well, surprise. I cried three times. And that was only from 345 - 430am. As cheesy as it may be, it still feels like he's taking my heart with him everytime we're apart for more than a day. Some people say it takes some getting used to. But I disagree because after years of being in this situation, it still is very difficult, still depressing and still painful for me. I HATE us being apart. There is no other way of putting it I guess. I simply feel that I'm a better, happier person when he's around. I mean, this guy really makes my day. When we're apart, it's like living hell, like I'm in limbo, in suspended animation, on auto-pilot. The world is more beautiful, more wonderful when we're together. When we're apart, everything is muted and lackluster. I dunno. I just like it when we're not miles apart. I still hope for the day when we don't have to rely on this kind of set-up; him working overseas. Hopefully, God will grant us this request.
Sigh. Until he returns, I'll have the boys to distract me fortunately. He promises to call everyday (and every night) so that will be a big help as well. All I can do now is wait for 4 days for him to come back to me.
.....
5:18am
The boys were awake when Ruther got ready to leave. I suppose that was a good thing because I wanted them to say goodbye to him before he left. Ruther would have wanted us to bring him to the station but dressing the boys up would take too much time and it was very very cold outside this morning. So, in the end, he decided against it and just kissed the boys and reminded them not to give me a hard time (hmmm... far from happening, I believe). =D Nikki panicked at first because when I wore my jacket, he thought I was going with Ruther to Manila! He cried when he realized I was not in the apartment. I had to help Ruther bring the small stroller down the stairs while he carried the bigger luggage. Ruther worried a bit when I started bawling but I couldn't let him tarry any longer because he had to catch the 450 train. So, with my heart so heavy, I watched him go and when I got back to the apartment, Nikki met me at the door and scolded me for leaving him. He was actually crying and reprimanding me so I just told him I had to help Daddy with his bags. Since the boys are no longer sleepy, I let them watch Toy Story 2. Was hoping to distract myself by blogging but blogspot is undergoing maintenance this morning. Just my luck. Sigh...
.....
5:32am
I can already imagine myself a month from now when we'll be getting ready to leave for Manila. A week from our departure, I'll surely be a wreck. =( Hopefully, Ruther and I will be saying goodbye at the Terminal and not here at home. Well, I'm hoping he'll take us to the airport but of course, it'll be costly (bus and train fare). But if he could bring us to Yokohama City Air Terminal it would be fine with me as well. I just hate us being apart!! Sigh.
.....
5:35am
I really, absolutely and definitely HATE goodbyes.
.....
5:37am
This is Yette, going on auto-pilot in 5... 4... 3... 2... 1...
.....
8:47am
Ruther just called and informed me that he's at the waiting area, anticipating the boarding call that will happen in less than an hour. He hasn't eaten breakfast yet; he didn't have the appetite for it. =( Poor baby. Hopefully he'll get some nourishment on the plane and then some sleep as well. He didn't quite get enough zzz's on the limousine bus (from Yokohama to Narita). He said he'll inform me when he's about to board so I'm pretty much stuck in front of this computer (the phone is beside it) until he does. More later...
.....
9:15am
Okay, he called again and this time, he's in the plane. So, we had to say our goodbyes quickly because he had to turn off his cellphone and already, I miss him like hell... =( Hopefully his flight will have no delays and he'll be in Manila in no time. His younger brother will be picking him up at the airport so I don't have to worry about him getting a ride home. Good thing... One less worry for me.
And now, my day begins with loading the washing machine with laundry and then washing the baby bottles. =P
.....
3:49pm (Japan time)
2:49pm (Philippine time)
My sweetie just called. He was at the airport already and was just waiting for his luggage. After which he'll be going home to leave most of the stuff, ready his bag for the leadership seminar, then proceed to Laguna. He said he'll call again tonight. It's SOOOO great to hear his voice. I'm really relieved that he's safely home. Can't wait to talk to him again tonight...
I really, absolutely and definitely HATE goodbyes.
Ruther just left a few minutes ago. I realized, it really didn't matter if he was going to be away for 2 years, 7 months or 5 days. I still felt the same way every time: utterly miserable. I promised myself I wouldn't cry this time. Well, surprise. I cried three times. And that was only from 345 - 430am. As cheesy as it may be, it still feels like he's taking my heart with him everytime we're apart for more than a day. Some people say it takes some getting used to. But I disagree because after years of being in this situation, it still is very difficult, still depressing and still painful for me. I HATE us being apart. There is no other way of putting it I guess. I simply feel that I'm a better, happier person when he's around. I mean, this guy really makes my day. When we're apart, it's like living hell, like I'm in limbo, in suspended animation, on auto-pilot. The world is more beautiful, more wonderful when we're together. When we're apart, everything is muted and lackluster. I dunno. I just like it when we're not miles apart. I still hope for the day when we don't have to rely on this kind of set-up; him working overseas. Hopefully, God will grant us this request.
Sigh. Until he returns, I'll have the boys to distract me fortunately. He promises to call everyday (and every night) so that will be a big help as well. All I can do now is wait for 4 days for him to come back to me.
.....
5:18am
The boys were awake when Ruther got ready to leave. I suppose that was a good thing because I wanted them to say goodbye to him before he left. Ruther would have wanted us to bring him to the station but dressing the boys up would take too much time and it was very very cold outside this morning. So, in the end, he decided against it and just kissed the boys and reminded them not to give me a hard time (hmmm... far from happening, I believe). =D Nikki panicked at first because when I wore my jacket, he thought I was going with Ruther to Manila! He cried when he realized I was not in the apartment. I had to help Ruther bring the small stroller down the stairs while he carried the bigger luggage. Ruther worried a bit when I started bawling but I couldn't let him tarry any longer because he had to catch the 450 train. So, with my heart so heavy, I watched him go and when I got back to the apartment, Nikki met me at the door and scolded me for leaving him. He was actually crying and reprimanding me so I just told him I had to help Daddy with his bags. Since the boys are no longer sleepy, I let them watch Toy Story 2. Was hoping to distract myself by blogging but blogspot is undergoing maintenance this morning. Just my luck. Sigh...
.....
5:32am
I can already imagine myself a month from now when we'll be getting ready to leave for Manila. A week from our departure, I'll surely be a wreck. =( Hopefully, Ruther and I will be saying goodbye at the Terminal and not here at home. Well, I'm hoping he'll take us to the airport but of course, it'll be costly (bus and train fare). But if he could bring us to Yokohama City Air Terminal it would be fine with me as well. I just hate us being apart!! Sigh.
.....
5:35am
I really, absolutely and definitely HATE goodbyes.
.....
5:37am
This is Yette, going on auto-pilot in 5... 4... 3... 2... 1...
.....
8:47am
Ruther just called and informed me that he's at the waiting area, anticipating the boarding call that will happen in less than an hour. He hasn't eaten breakfast yet; he didn't have the appetite for it. =( Poor baby. Hopefully he'll get some nourishment on the plane and then some sleep as well. He didn't quite get enough zzz's on the limousine bus (from Yokohama to Narita). He said he'll inform me when he's about to board so I'm pretty much stuck in front of this computer (the phone is beside it) until he does. More later...
.....
9:15am
Okay, he called again and this time, he's in the plane. So, we had to say our goodbyes quickly because he had to turn off his cellphone and already, I miss him like hell... =( Hopefully his flight will have no delays and he'll be in Manila in no time. His younger brother will be picking him up at the airport so I don't have to worry about him getting a ride home. Good thing... One less worry for me.
And now, my day begins with loading the washing machine with laundry and then washing the baby bottles. =P
.....
3:49pm (Japan time)
2:49pm (Philippine time)
My sweetie just called. He was at the airport already and was just waiting for his luggage. After which he'll be going home to leave most of the stuff, ready his bag for the leadership seminar, then proceed to Laguna. He said he'll call again tonight. It's SOOOO great to hear his voice. I'm really relieved that he's safely home. Can't wait to talk to him again tonight...
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
MY JACKET
At last, I was able to take photos of the jacket Ruther bought for me last Saturday. I really, really love it. Aside from the fact that it's my first time to own a jacket like this and that Ruther bought it for me, it didn't cost an arm and a leg because it was on sale! Oh, and did I say I really love it? =D
THE AIRPLANE HAS UNVEILED FOR US THE TRUE FACE OF THE EARTH.- Antoine de Saint-Exupery
Ruther will be leaving for Narita Airport bright and early tomorrow morning. His flight is at 930am and he has to be at the airport 3 hours before departure. It takes an hour to get to Narita (in Tokyo) from Yokohama so that means, he has to leave the house at 5am!! He'll have to be awake by 4am!! My poor sweetie... I hope he'll be able to get some rest on the plane. It'll be a 4-hour trip to Manila. He promises to call once he's landed. He knows I'll probably worry if I don't hear anything from him. Well, he's right. I'll really miss him these 4 days he won't be around. But I know he deserves this break. He works really hard for us and has been away from home for almost 2 years. So, I hope when he comes back he'll be refreshed and feeling like a new man. =D
.....
The packing is almost completely done. Ruther will be bringing home some of the boys' clothes (the summer clothes) and some of the stuffed toys we've accumulated over our stay here. He's only allowed 20 kilos so he didn't want to bring stuff that were too heavy. In the luggage are also the chocolates and some souvenirs he bought for his family back home. He'll be bringing a small stroller to hand carry. He was asking me this morning if I had a small bag where he could put his cellphone, iPod, Nintendo DS and the camera. I didn't. I told him I'll just check Daiso today and see if I they had small messenger bags.
I was thinking last night, in a month, we will be doing the same thing: packing for home. Only this time, it will be the boys and I who will be leaving Ruther. I just don't know how I'll be feeling then. I suppose it would be close to feeling depressed. Sigh...
.....
I made Binagoongan for Ruther's baon today. He loves meat and chicken dishes so it's pretty difficult to come up with something he'll like to eat (although I DO ask him to eat healthy once in a while). I don't mind preparing this though. It's quite easy to make and well, the ingredients are available here (of course, we had to buy the bagoong at the Filipino store). =D I'm sharing the recipe with other Binagoongan lovers out there:
PORK BINAGOONGAN (good for 2 people)
1/4 kilo pork, cubed (you could pre-boil so it's tender already)
1/4 C bagoong alamang (or less if you prefer it to be less salty)
1 small onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ripe tomato, chopped
2-3 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp sugar (or adjust to taste)
oil for frying
In a pan or skillet, fry pork for a few minutes over medium heat. Add the garlic, onions and tomatoes. Saute for 5 minutes. Add the bagoong, vinegar and sugar. Mix well and allow to simmer. Lower the heat. Check from time to time and if the mixture gets too thick, you can add a tsp of water at a time.
.....
The packing is almost completely done. Ruther will be bringing home some of the boys' clothes (the summer clothes) and some of the stuffed toys we've accumulated over our stay here. He's only allowed 20 kilos so he didn't want to bring stuff that were too heavy. In the luggage are also the chocolates and some souvenirs he bought for his family back home. He'll be bringing a small stroller to hand carry. He was asking me this morning if I had a small bag where he could put his cellphone, iPod, Nintendo DS and the camera. I didn't. I told him I'll just check Daiso today and see if I they had small messenger bags.
I was thinking last night, in a month, we will be doing the same thing: packing for home. Only this time, it will be the boys and I who will be leaving Ruther. I just don't know how I'll be feeling then. I suppose it would be close to feeling depressed. Sigh...
.....
I made Binagoongan for Ruther's baon today. He loves meat and chicken dishes so it's pretty difficult to come up with something he'll like to eat (although I DO ask him to eat healthy once in a while). I don't mind preparing this though. It's quite easy to make and well, the ingredients are available here (of course, we had to buy the bagoong at the Filipino store). =D I'm sharing the recipe with other Binagoongan lovers out there:
PORK BINAGOONGAN (good for 2 people)
1/4 kilo pork, cubed (you could pre-boil so it's tender already)
1/4 C bagoong alamang (or less if you prefer it to be less salty)
1 small onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ripe tomato, chopped
2-3 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp sugar (or adjust to taste)
oil for frying
In a pan or skillet, fry pork for a few minutes over medium heat. Add the garlic, onions and tomatoes. Saute for 5 minutes. Add the bagoong, vinegar and sugar. Mix well and allow to simmer. Lower the heat. Check from time to time and if the mixture gets too thick, you can add a tsp of water at a time.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
COFFEE BRIEFS
I love coffee. I love its aroma, it's soothing taste (well I cheat a little because I like my coffee a bit sweet) and I love it with pan de sal. Ruther likes the Caramel Macchiato and I prefer Cappuccino.
For all you coffee lovers out there, here are some interesting tidbits:
People who drink coffee are less likely to commit suicide than people who don't.
Coffee beans aren't beans, they're fruit pits.
When coffee first arrived in Europe, it was known as Arabian Wine.
In a 12-year study, it was found that coffee does not - as was previously believed- cause high blood pressure.
October 1st is the official Coffee Day in Japan.
It takes five years for a coffee tree to reach maturity. The average yield from one tree is the equivalent of one roasted pound of coffee.
Coffee cherries usually contain two “beans”, except for the single bean peaberry anomaly. Cherries with three beans are deemed to be a sign of good luck.
Black coffee (without sugar or milk) does not contain calories (less than 1 Kcal.)
Coffee only grows in tropical and sub-tropical regions.
Coffee is the second most actively traded commodity, right after oil.
Coffee has many different varieties, more than 60!
The quality of a cup of coffee does not depend on the blend only but also on the ratio of the amount of water and coffee used for brewing.
Researchers have found that there is no evidence that coffee plays any role in the risk of cancer. According to Takayuki Shibamoto of the University of California at Davis, there are "1,000 different chemicals in coffee, some of which are antioxidants."
It takes 42 coffee beans to make an espresso.
Cappuccino is so named because of the drink's peak of foam, which resembles the cowl of a Capuchin friar's habit.
On average, men drink more coffee than women.
For all you coffee lovers out there, here are some interesting tidbits:
People who drink coffee are less likely to commit suicide than people who don't.
Coffee beans aren't beans, they're fruit pits.
When coffee first arrived in Europe, it was known as Arabian Wine.
In a 12-year study, it was found that coffee does not - as was previously believed- cause high blood pressure.
October 1st is the official Coffee Day in Japan.
It takes five years for a coffee tree to reach maturity. The average yield from one tree is the equivalent of one roasted pound of coffee.
Coffee cherries usually contain two “beans”, except for the single bean peaberry anomaly. Cherries with three beans are deemed to be a sign of good luck.
Black coffee (without sugar or milk) does not contain calories (less than 1 Kcal.)
Coffee only grows in tropical and sub-tropical regions.
Coffee is the second most actively traded commodity, right after oil.
Coffee has many different varieties, more than 60!
The quality of a cup of coffee does not depend on the blend only but also on the ratio of the amount of water and coffee used for brewing.
Researchers have found that there is no evidence that coffee plays any role in the risk of cancer. According to Takayuki Shibamoto of the University of California at Davis, there are "1,000 different chemicals in coffee, some of which are antioxidants."
It takes 42 coffee beans to make an espresso.
Cappuccino is so named because of the drink's peak of foam, which resembles the cowl of a Capuchin friar's habit.
On average, men drink more coffee than women.
PASALUBONG
Pasalubong is a Tagalog word meaning "souvenir". In the Philippines it has aquired the meaning of a small gift or souvenir from someone travelling either whilst visiting or upon returning home. The literal meaning of pasalubong is to "greet", "surprise" or "meet with".
Pasalubong is very popular among Filipinos if good relations are to be maintained. Pasalubong can range from food items such as fruits, imported confectionery goods and other sweets. Pasalubong can also be other items such as shirts, novelty items, knives and toys etc. If it is something that can be bought or wrapped, it's a pasalubong. (from Wikipedia; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pasalubong)
.....
We did some minor packing past night for Ruther's departure on Thursday. We had some difficulty deciding what pasalubong to give everyone at home because most of our pasalubong are in the 2 balikbayan boxes we sent ahead months ago. So, now we're considering buying some food and chocolates for Ruther's family, my sister and brother, and Ruther's officemates. I did get a nice fan for Mama. I hope she likes it. I'm sure a week before we leave for Manila too, I'll be a wreck on what to get everyone back home. I usually like to get something that suits the personality of the person. Like my sis, I plan to get her a Japanese umbrella because she's dainty. For my mom, I'll get her those geisha figurines and a fan too. I already got my dad some golf stuff because he's such a golf nut. Anyway, I'm sure I'll have the list ready by February. I also have to buy MY souvenirs as well. =D Oh boy, LOTS of shopping to do!
Pasalubong is very popular among Filipinos if good relations are to be maintained. Pasalubong can range from food items such as fruits, imported confectionery goods and other sweets. Pasalubong can also be other items such as shirts, novelty items, knives and toys etc. If it is something that can be bought or wrapped, it's a pasalubong. (from Wikipedia; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pasalubong)
.....
We did some minor packing past night for Ruther's departure on Thursday. We had some difficulty deciding what pasalubong to give everyone at home because most of our pasalubong are in the 2 balikbayan boxes we sent ahead months ago. So, now we're considering buying some food and chocolates for Ruther's family, my sister and brother, and Ruther's officemates. I did get a nice fan for Mama. I hope she likes it. I'm sure a week before we leave for Manila too, I'll be a wreck on what to get everyone back home. I usually like to get something that suits the personality of the person. Like my sis, I plan to get her a Japanese umbrella because she's dainty. For my mom, I'll get her those geisha figurines and a fan too. I already got my dad some golf stuff because he's such a golf nut. Anyway, I'm sure I'll have the list ready by February. I also have to buy MY souvenirs as well. =D Oh boy, LOTS of shopping to do!
WRESTLING NIGHT
The boys enjoy a little rough-housing every once in a while; Ethan more than Nikki. Last night they were particularly hyper so Ruther indulged them with some wrestling and Ethan loved it a lot! Nikki wanted to join in but Ruther was careful not to be too rough with him because Nikki is not very physical. They also did some somersaults on the futon and I videoed them. It was nice to see them all having loads of fun! =D
Ethan's smile says it all...
Ethan's smile says it all...
Daddy wins!
Daddy's signature move!
Nikki's turn!
Weeeeeeee!!
Monday, January 22, 2007
RAINYDAYS AND MONDAYS
My sister finally made it to MV Doulos last Saturday. She said it was full of people. The queue going into the ship was sooo long she said it was like she was going to a concert. She was able to get some books for the boys. Not too many though. It was okay with me because I told her not to buy books more expensive than those sold at Booksale. I dunno if she got me some as well. But at least she checked it out for me. Last Saturday was the last day of Doulos in Manila. After that, they will be heading for Batangas. Before, they used to go to Mindanao (the big island in the southern Philippines) but maybe because of some skirmishes there, I suppose it's a safer option for them to stay in the Luzon area. I miss shopping for books. I remember back in college, I would spend forever in a bookstore. I just love looking at the new titles, smelling the new paper, searching for just the right book that would make my day. I'm sure, when I go back home, the bookstore will be one of my top priorities of "places to visit immediately". =D 
.....
For the past weeks, Ruther and I watched episodes of the Justice League animated series (the ones shown on Cartoon Network). I forget how many episodes there were but I think it was about 50+. I used to watch the Superfriends when I was little. I noticed that there were some differences in the superheroes then and now. For example, Wonder Woman didn't fly before. She used to go around in her invisible jet. In the Justice League, she could fly and her powers are almost as strong as
Superman's. Not that I'm complaining. I mean, I think she's a better superhero without her invisible jet. =) After watching all those Justice League episodes, I suppose my favorite is Hawkgirl. She's feisty and independent and strong but still very much a woman. The wings are a plus too, I guess. =D Besides, she loves Green Lantern and well, Ruther likes the Green Lantern's powers and I think it's just appropriate because in the episodes, she and GL loved each other. =D Cool, huh?
.....
For the past weeks, Ruther and I watched episodes of the Justice League animated series (the ones shown on Cartoon Network). I forget how many episodes there were but I think it was about 50+. I used to watch the Superfriends when I was little. I noticed that there were some differences in the superheroes then and now. For example, Wonder Woman didn't fly before. She used to go around in her invisible jet. In the Justice League, she could fly and her powers are almost as strong as
Superman's. Not that I'm complaining. I mean, I think she's a better superhero without her invisible jet. =) After watching all those Justice League episodes, I suppose my favorite is Hawkgirl. She's feisty and independent and strong but still very much a woman. The wings are a plus too, I guess. =D Besides, she loves Green Lantern and well, Ruther likes the Green Lantern's powers and I think it's just appropriate because in the episodes, she and GL loved each other. =D Cool, huh? .....
Ruther will be leaving for Manila this Thursday! Can't believe it's so soon! I don't know if he's excited about it. I did ask him because he hasn't been home since late 2004 but he said he's not too excited because we're here and he's there. Hmmm... I don't know if he answered that way for my benefit but I'm still glad he'll miss us when he's away. =P I hope he'll have fun there at least. He really deserves some R & R.
.....
It's another cold morning for us. It started to rain late last night and continued on until probably around 6am this morning. Which is why it's so chilly and so cloudy today. I would have wanted to bring the boys to the playground but I'm sure the swings and the slide will be wet so... oh well, I'll leave that to another day. Looks like we'll simply have to content ourselves with some crafts for Ruther's birthday and Valentine's Day. =D
Sunday, January 21, 2007
BROTHERS
March 17, 2005, Manila
i love my brother!
Nikki was 4 years old here and Ethan was only 2 1/2.
See those crayon drawings on the wall? That's Ethan's work.
i love my brother!
LAZY PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS EAGER TO BE DOING SOMETHING. -French proverb
We spent today at home. Just lazing around, catching up with our shows and doing some chores. We pretty much left the boys on their own. Ethan played with his toy train and Nikki played Mario Bros. on the computer. It's just such a nice day to take it slow and cuddle the day away.
HAPPY THUMBS
Ethan's and my thumbs. Nikki is not into things like this. As a typical obsessive-compulsive, he hates getting his hands and fingers dirty. So, only Ethan and I finger paint and draw on our hands. =D
Saturday, January 20, 2007
A SATURDAY SURPRISE
Well, we woke up late again today. It was just so hard to get up because it was really cold. Fortunately, we were ready and out of the house by 9 past. The sky was overcast and gloomy. The air was biting cold and we had smoky breaths. We took the 9:30 (or so I think) train and made our way to Kozukue. When we stopped at Nakayama station, Ruther called my attention and pointed outside. I saw some white stuff falling. Was it snow?!? I really doubted it because 1.) I didn't want to get too excited and just be sorely disappointed if it turned out not to be snow and 2.) the weather forecast said nothing about snow (and it usually is accurate by 85% in my opinion). So, when we stopped by Kamoi station, I tried my best to focus (actually, I was straining my eyeballs and I think I freaked some people beside me) outside the train and there were no white things falling. I thought, "Could it have been ash?" Well, don't blame me for that thought. After hearing stories of eruptions in the Philippines and ash falling from the sky like snow, well, I just didn't know what to think. There HAD to be an explanation for the white stuff I saw. Anyway, next stop was Kozukue and we got off. When we went out of the station, lo and behold! It WAS snowing! No, not the big white fluffy snow. Just the tiny ones. And they were very few. But it WAS snow! It was so exciting and I was so psyched it was actually a little pathetic. I mean, here I am, a grown woman, overly excited about some really tiny snow falling from the sky. We could barely see it. I had to strain my eyes again but I did see some. Sigh. My excitement quelled as quickly as those tiny snowflakes melting upon hitting the ground. We entered the communit
y center and had to wait for our turn because there were a couple of guys using the court. According to the rules, we could use the court at 30 minute intervals if there were other players. So, I simply looked around the eating area and took some photos of interesting things in their display cabinet.
After a few minutes, it was our turn and I was itching to play. Unfortunately, I played poorly because my hands were really numb and I had difficulty gripping the racket. I lost 2 games. I was disappointed at first but I realized later on that I did have fun and I was exercising too so I let it go. Around 1130am, we were told by Ruther's officemate (who just arrived then to play badminton too) that it was snowing outside. I was ecstatic! I grabbed my camera and called Ruther to bring the boys outside. It really WAS snowing! And this time, there were more! I asked Ruther to take my picture. It was just too difficult to get a nice shot so we had to resort to video. It was fine with me. As long as this day was recorded in history, then it's all right. So, on January 20, 2007, the boys and I first experienced snow!! It was really great!! I hope Nikki will remember this at least. =D
do you see the snow?
it's snowing!
I'm ecstatic, Nikki is curious and Ethan doesn't care. =D
By 1230pm we were all ready to eat lunch. So, we headed for Kamoi and ate at our favorite chahan place Nanhansiaokuan (or at least that's how you read it phonetically, Ruther says). Ruther ordered chahan and yakiniku. It was sooo yummy! I love to eat chahan here! =D Ethan ate lots but Nikki was too tired and slept at the table. Poor baby!
yakiniku with vegetables...
yummy!
chahan
feeding Ethan
oishi desu!
sleepy baby...
Ethan eats on his own
all done...
After lunch, we headed for Yokohama. We had to buy another camera and this time for my mom. She found out that my sister asked us to buy her a camera and so she also wanted one for herself. So, to Yodobashi we went. We got her the same camera as Ate's and we also got them extra batteries, neck straps and LCD protective films. I'm sure both of them will loooove the cams! =D Anyway, we had to go to Sofmap which was nearby to buy the XD card for Mommy's camera. We got her the 1 gigabyte memory card. She could take LOTS of pictures with that! =D While at Sofmap, Ruther bought a DVD that was on sale. It was Unbreakable. Another DVD to add to his collection. =)
Here's Ruther paying for the camera.
(Yodobashi, Yokohama)
We passed by Uniqlo (which was on the same floor as Sofmap) and checked the clothes that were on sale. Ruther insisted on buying this lovely jacket for me. Of course, I felt guilty about the purchase again but he really wanted me to have it because he said I feel cold quite easily (which is so true because I had 3 shirts in my jacket today and I still didn't feel warm) and also, it was on sale. So, yes, he got it for me and I looooove it! I'll take a photo of it tomorrow. =D
After Uniqlo we had to go home because it was 6pm and the boys were just fed up of our going around. Also, it was starting to drizzle and we didn't bring umbrellas so all the more reason to head home. For dinner, I prepared spaghetti because it was easy to prepare and I know Ruther likes it. Around 8pm, Mommy called us through Skype. I showed her the camera and she couldn't wait to try it out. She might get it in February. She and dad are passing by Manila because my dad has a golf tournament then in Cagayan. We talked some more and they enjoyed seeing the boys. They miss them a lot, my dad especially. He dotes on them.
Anyway, it's getting pretty late so this is the end to my day. Hopefully, Japan will give me more surprises before we head home next month. =D
y center and had to wait for our turn because there were a couple of guys using the court. According to the rules, we could use the court at 30 minute intervals if there were other players. So, I simply looked around the eating area and took some photos of interesting things in their display cabinet.
After a few minutes, it was our turn and I was itching to play. Unfortunately, I played poorly because my hands were really numb and I had difficulty gripping the racket. I lost 2 games. I was disappointed at first but I realized later on that I did have fun and I was exercising too so I let it go. Around 1130am, we were told by Ruther's officemate (who just arrived then to play badminton too) that it was snowing outside. I was ecstatic! I grabbed my camera and called Ruther to bring the boys outside. It really WAS snowing! And this time, there were more! I asked Ruther to take my picture. It was just too difficult to get a nice shot so we had to resort to video. It was fine with me. As long as this day was recorded in history, then it's all right. So, on January 20, 2007, the boys and I first experienced snow!! It was really great!! I hope Nikki will remember this at least. =D
do you see the snow?
it's snowing!
I'm ecstatic, Nikki is curious and Ethan doesn't care. =D
By 1230pm we were all ready to eat lunch. So, we headed for Kamoi and ate at our favorite chahan place Nanhansiaokuan (or at least that's how you read it phonetically, Ruther says). Ruther ordered chahan and yakiniku. It was sooo yummy! I love to eat chahan here! =D Ethan ate lots but Nikki was too tired and slept at the table. Poor baby!
yakiniku with vegetables...
yummy!
chahan
feeding Ethan
oishi desu!
sleepy baby...
Ethan eats on his own
all done...
After lunch, we headed for Yokohama. We had to buy another camera and this time for my mom. She found out that my sister asked us to buy her a camera and so she also wanted one for herself. So, to Yodobashi we went. We got her the same camera as Ate's and we also got them extra batteries, neck straps and LCD protective films. I'm sure both of them will loooove the cams! =D Anyway, we had to go to Sofmap which was nearby to buy the XD card for Mommy's camera. We got her the 1 gigabyte memory card. She could take LOTS of pictures with that! =D While at Sofmap, Ruther bought a DVD that was on sale. It was Unbreakable. Another DVD to add to his collection. =)
Here's Ruther paying for the camera.
(Yodobashi, Yokohama)
We passed by Uniqlo (which was on the same floor as Sofmap) and checked the clothes that were on sale. Ruther insisted on buying this lovely jacket for me. Of course, I felt guilty about the purchase again but he really wanted me to have it because he said I feel cold quite easily (which is so true because I had 3 shirts in my jacket today and I still didn't feel warm) and also, it was on sale. So, yes, he got it for me and I looooove it! I'll take a photo of it tomorrow. =D
After Uniqlo we had to go home because it was 6pm and the boys were just fed up of our going around. Also, it was starting to drizzle and we didn't bring umbrellas so all the more reason to head home. For dinner, I prepared spaghetti because it was easy to prepare and I know Ruther likes it. Around 8pm, Mommy called us through Skype. I showed her the camera and she couldn't wait to try it out. She might get it in February. She and dad are passing by Manila because my dad has a golf tournament then in Cagayan. We talked some more and they enjoyed seeing the boys. They miss them a lot, my dad especially. He dotes on them.
Anyway, it's getting pretty late so this is the end to my day. Hopefully, Japan will give me more surprises before we head home next month. =D
Friday, January 19, 2007
FLASHBACK 2003
I really love this photo. Nikki was 2 1/2 here and Ethan was only 8 days old. It's like they're saying, "Hello, brother!"
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