Is it "starve a fever, feed a cold" or the other way around? I can't be sure. (But if I remember correctly, I think it's the former...) Anyway, the reason I'm asking is because Nikki is a bit feverish today. Nothing really serious though. I think it's because he didn't sleep with a blanket last night and it got a bit cold so now he has a slight fever. I'm still observing him closely though. With his birthday coming up in 2 days, I don't want my baby to be sick then. =(
.....
It was pretty overcast today. I told Ruther this morning to bring an umbrella because I felt like it was going to rain by late afternoon and it seems like I'm right. He commuted today and I didn't want him to get wet. He catches a cold quite easily and I don't want him to be sick...
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
FUN AGAIN
Last night, Ruther asked me if I could meet him at SM Southmall after he was done with work. Of course I said yes. He said he wanted to check some things and that was okay with me. I told him we would leave the house early (he was off at 6pm) so that we would avoid the rush and the boys could play more. He agreed. By 445pm we were on our way. We first dropped by SM Storyland and the boys played in the paddleboats and after that had a hotdog for a snack. Then we went to Bioresearch because I wanted to get Sushi some more pine shavings but they had none available. Anyway, while we were there, we saw the cute bunnies and there was this black one that I immediately loved so I just had to buy him. He's sooo cute and so little and he has one white paw (front left) so we decided to name him White Paw. Creative, huh? =D Anyway, after that, I let the boys play in the bouncy castle for 30 minutes, just in time for Ruther to arrive from work. Then we had dinner at Max's (really one of our favorite restos and the chicken was yummy last night) and after that, we went around the shops. We got some ice cream for the boys before we left.
We didn't get to do much shopping but I really loved that we were together. I love it that Ruther wanted us to be with him when he could really have just gone by himself. Anyway, just glad we had a fun night, all of us. =D
We didn't get to do much shopping but I really loved that we were together. I love it that Ruther wanted us to be with him when he could really have just gone by himself. Anyway, just glad we had a fun night, all of us. =D
WITH DARTH VADER
I know, I know. I'm like an idiot in this photo. But that's Darth Vader for goodness' sake! I'm allowed to act like an idiot, right? =D Anyway, I had lots of fun having my photo taken with him. But, uhm, dyu know who took his light saber?
=D
Photo taken inside Toy Kingdom at SM Mall of Asia.
Monday, November 26, 2007
TV
Yesterday, I spent most of the day watching House episodes. I was able to catch up to the latest episode, thank God, but this was the longest I've spent in front of the tv. I don't think it's healthy at all. I feel like such a couch potato. As I was watching, I could imagine my fats thickening, my eyes blurring and my whole body protesting about the lack of movement and the unhealthiness of the radiation coming from the tv. Okay, I'm exaggerating but I still feel guilty. Today, I'm going to ask someone to bring up the treadmill so I could start my exercises again. I feel like such a delinquent brat (is that redundant?) because I haven't been exercising at all for the past 4 weeks!
My mom's gonna kill me.
.....
Yesterday after church, we went to SM City Sucat to order Nikki's birthday cake. He still stuck to his Incredibles motif and picked the cake design that he wanted. It was okay. Based on the photo, it had Mr. Incredible and Dash figures on it. The cake (size 12x16) cost us P1150 (approximately US$27). Not bad, I guess. I'm going to pick it up on Thursday because I want us to have the picture-taking on the 29th (Nikki's birthday). I will also prepare spaghetti and maybe get a bucket of fried chicken from Jollibee. Oh yeah, and I have to get Nikki's present as well. =D
.....
No typhoon came last weekend. And it's a good thing too. I was worried about the drips in Nikki's room but when it rained last night and I checked their room this morning, there were no more drips so I hope that one is fixed already (and won't occur again). But even if there was no super typhoon, the sky is still pretty overcast today and it still might rain. I suppose that's good news for everyone. =D
My mom's gonna kill me.
.....
Yesterday after church, we went to SM City Sucat to order Nikki's birthday cake. He still stuck to his Incredibles motif and picked the cake design that he wanted. It was okay. Based on the photo, it had Mr. Incredible and Dash figures on it. The cake (size 12x16) cost us P1150 (approximately US$27). Not bad, I guess. I'm going to pick it up on Thursday because I want us to have the picture-taking on the 29th (Nikki's birthday). I will also prepare spaghetti and maybe get a bucket of fried chicken from Jollibee. Oh yeah, and I have to get Nikki's present as well. =D
.....
No typhoon came last weekend. And it's a good thing too. I was worried about the drips in Nikki's room but when it rained last night and I checked their room this morning, there were no more drips so I hope that one is fixed already (and won't occur again). But even if there was no super typhoon, the sky is still pretty overcast today and it still might rain. I suppose that's good news for everyone. =D
Saturday, November 24, 2007
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY MOM AND DAD!
Today is my Mom and Dad's 33rd Wedding Anniversary. I love my parents. I know that they have had their ups and downs over the years but it's the sticking together that makes me admire them a lot. My mom is very OC. My dad is pretty laid-back. My mom loves to read and watch tv. My dad loves to play golf. They are their own unique selves in a solid relationship. Ruther and I have different personalities too. I'm not saying we're opposites because we both like certain things but sometimes, we still have a difference of opinion on some topics. I like that about us. I like that we no longer fight, but we reason. I like that we listen to each other instead of making the other listen to what one has to say. I love that we take the time to laugh, to cuddle, to take it easy. I love our differences and our similarities. I appreciate knowing and learning all these things from watching my mom and dad as I grew up and how they take care of each other and settle their differences. I admit, I learned through emulation and really, how can I not be grateful for that? So for all the love and affection and good qualities you have shown me and my siblings all these years, for making me believe in true love and for making me wait for the perfect man to marry, for trusting my judgment and making me make my own mistakes and my own decisions, thank you, thank you, thank you! And I love you both so much!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
I am thankful for...
... Ruther. My one true love, my rock, my joy, my source of strength, my partner, my heart, my soul, my everything. Without you, the world would be less colorful, less beautiful, less wonderful. You are the one person who truly understands me, sees the real me and accepts me wholly and completely. Sweetie, nothing compares to you and I love you.
... Nikki. My support system, my dependable son. You are what I hoped my eldest child would be: responsible, emphatic, caring, independent, smart. You are that and so much more. I see a lot of potential in you and I hope that I could help you be who you are meant to be in God's eyes.
... Ethan. My comfort, my breath of fresh air. You give us so much joy with your laughter, your unpredictability, your smile and funny antics. I hope that nothing will faze you, that you will remain adventurous and fun-loving and will stay true to yourself.
... My family. I am grateful for my parents - for their guidance and their love. I would not be who I am if it weren't for them. I am grateful for the wonderful way they have brought me and my siblings up. I am also thankful for my brother and sister and for our closeness and our never-ending bonding moments.
... Ruther's parents. Without them I would not have my soulmate. For that, I will be grateful to them forever.
... good health. I am thankful that my family has been relatively healthy all these years and has not been afflicted with a serious illness. I am thankful that Nikki's congenital illness was only mild and did not require serious or radical treatment and also that he has recovered from his Beta-Thalassemia.
... our trip to Japan. It was a magical moment for our family. It was a time when we learned to be by ourselves, to be by ourselves and to cope by ourselves. We managed, we bonded, we had fun and we learned so much. More importantly, it was a moment when we realized that when we're together we could overcome anything and everything.
... Ruther spending Christmas with us this year. Christmas is always a big deal for me. And this year is no different. Having Ruther with us this year makes it really special and wonderful. Guaranteed.
... God's many blessings and graces. I know that my family and I have been receiving many of these through the years and for every little grace we have received (and will receive), I am so grateful; be it having food on the table, coming home safely from a trip, having enough money to last the month, being safe after a mishap or seeing my mom and dad one more time. I always count these blessings and will always be grateful for the generosity of our Father. I am humbled by His love and His giving heart.
... my friends - old and new. Thank you for the lessons shared, the experiences revealed, the friendly advice and all your love and warmth and concern. The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, nor the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when you discover that someone else believes in you and is willing to trust you with a friendship. - Ralph Waldo Emerson
... Ruther. My one true love, my rock, my joy, my source of strength, my partner, my heart, my soul, my everything. Without you, the world would be less colorful, less beautiful, less wonderful. You are the one person who truly understands me, sees the real me and accepts me wholly and completely. Sweetie, nothing compares to you and I love you.
... Nikki. My support system, my dependable son. You are what I hoped my eldest child would be: responsible, emphatic, caring, independent, smart. You are that and so much more. I see a lot of potential in you and I hope that I could help you be who you are meant to be in God's eyes.
... Ethan. My comfort, my breath of fresh air. You give us so much joy with your laughter, your unpredictability, your smile and funny antics. I hope that nothing will faze you, that you will remain adventurous and fun-loving and will stay true to yourself.
... My family. I am grateful for my parents - for their guidance and their love. I would not be who I am if it weren't for them. I am grateful for the wonderful way they have brought me and my siblings up. I am also thankful for my brother and sister and for our closeness and our never-ending bonding moments.
... Ruther's parents. Without them I would not have my soulmate. For that, I will be grateful to them forever.
... good health. I am thankful that my family has been relatively healthy all these years and has not been afflicted with a serious illness. I am thankful that Nikki's congenital illness was only mild and did not require serious or radical treatment and also that he has recovered from his Beta-Thalassemia.
... our trip to Japan. It was a magical moment for our family. It was a time when we learned to be by ourselves, to be by ourselves and to cope by ourselves. We managed, we bonded, we had fun and we learned so much. More importantly, it was a moment when we realized that when we're together we could overcome anything and everything.
... Ruther spending Christmas with us this year. Christmas is always a big deal for me. And this year is no different. Having Ruther with us this year makes it really special and wonderful. Guaranteed.
... God's many blessings and graces. I know that my family and I have been receiving many of these through the years and for every little grace we have received (and will receive), I am so grateful; be it having food on the table, coming home safely from a trip, having enough money to last the month, being safe after a mishap or seeing my mom and dad one more time. I always count these blessings and will always be grateful for the generosity of our Father. I am humbled by His love and His giving heart.
... my friends - old and new. Thank you for the lessons shared, the experiences revealed, the friendly advice and all your love and warmth and concern. The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, nor the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when you discover that someone else believes in you and is willing to trust you with a friendship. - Ralph Waldo Emerson
Friday, November 23, 2007
PAROL
Parols are Christmas ornaments from the Philippines. They are traditionally made out of bamboo and paper although plastics are sometimes preferred and elaborate ones are made from capiz shells. They are traditionally star-shaped, and is thought of to symbolize the star of Bethlehem. They are usually hung outdoors on doors, patios, windows and other. They are the equivalent of Christmas wreaths in the western world. (from Wikipedia)
Filipinos adorn their houses with parol (Christmas lantern influenced by the Mexican piñata) during Christmas. Most of these lanterns are made of 
bamboo sticks and thin sheets of paper (called Japanese paper in the Philippines). They are lighted up at night. More recent innovations of the parol are those made of capiz (seashells) that have dancing lights, which originated in Pampanga. (http://www.seasite.niu.edu/Tagalog/Tagalog_Default_files/Philippine_Culture/paskong_pilipino.htm)
bamboo sticks and thin sheets of paper (called Japanese paper in the Philippines). They are lighted up at night. More recent innovations of the parol are those made of capiz (seashells) that have dancing lights, which originated in Pampanga. (http://www.seasite.niu.edu/Tagalog/Tagalog_Default_files/Philippine_Culture/paskong_pilipino.htm)ALL BETTER
I am very happy to report that Ethan is all better today. When he woke up this morning, his skin felt cool to the touch and I was so glad that he's no longer sick. It was wonderful to see him run around again, make noise and irritate Nikki once more. Really, I am so happy that my boy is all right again. =D
.....
We had weird weather again today. It rained pretty hard during the night and early morning but by afternoon it got warm. The good thing is that the boys spent the afternoon riding their bike and playing with some of the boys in the street. At first, they were throwing pebbles everywhere and I didn't like that so I gave them some colored chalk and they ended up drawing and writing on the road. It was nice to see Nikki and Ethan interact with the kids (and contradict my mother-in-law who says that my boys will be anti-social because they are homeschooled). Anyway, it was an okay day for me too. I fixed the cabinets and also watched a few House episodes (the ones that I missed after I got back from Japan). Then, at around 6pm, I started to cook dinner and Ruther came home at around 730. It's a bit late but he left for work later than usual this morning because he commuted. Tomorrow might be rainy as well because I heard that a typhoon is coming into the country probably during the weekend. Bummer.
.....
We had weird weather again today. It rained pretty hard during the night and early morning but by afternoon it got warm. The good thing is that the boys spent the afternoon riding their bike and playing with some of the boys in the street. At first, they were throwing pebbles everywhere and I didn't like that so I gave them some colored chalk and they ended up drawing and writing on the road. It was nice to see Nikki and Ethan interact with the kids (and contradict my mother-in-law who says that my boys will be anti-social because they are homeschooled). Anyway, it was an okay day for me too. I fixed the cabinets and also watched a few House episodes (the ones that I missed after I got back from Japan). Then, at around 6pm, I started to cook dinner and Ruther came home at around 730. It's a bit late but he left for work later than usual this morning because he commuted. Tomorrow might be rainy as well because I heard that a typhoon is coming into the country probably during the weekend. Bummer.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
AWARDS
Mhay has generously granted me the following awards:
Thank you so much Mhay! As always, I am grateful for all the friendships I have formed through blogging and I am even more thankful for being appreciated by friends I have only met through cyberspace. Thanks for the awards then and now. Although I have only begun blogging, I thoroughly enjoy connecting with people and learning new things and reading about lives and experiences. Everyday is always a learning experience for me. Thank you all so much!
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
SMALL TALK
I just woke up from a nap and this is what I saw on the laptop (on Google Talk) between Ruther and my 5 year-old-son Nikki:
Ruther: Hi! Did you get my email?
Nikki (using my account): Are you there in the office?
Ruther: Yes. Is this Nikki?
Nikki: Yeah!
Ruther: Where's Mommy?
Nikki: Sleeping in her bed, right Daddy
Ruther: Ok, don't wake her up.
Nikki: Is it time, Daddy?
Ruther: Tell Mommy later that Daddy has an email for her
Nikki: There's Ethan sleeping on Mommy's back. I will just tic toe (he means "tip toe"), right Daddy
Ruther: Okay, just be a good boy.
Isn't that cute? After I read this I felt like they were talking to each other. Actually, the other day, Ruther was asking me when we're giving Nikki his own email account. I told him it's too soon but I know that Nikki would love to write letters and messages to my mom and dad. =) Maybe we could do that next year. =D
Ruther: Hi! Did you get my email?
Nikki (using my account): Are you there in the office?
Ruther: Yes. Is this Nikki?
Nikki: Yeah!
Ruther: Where's Mommy?
Nikki: Sleeping in her bed, right Daddy
Ruther: Ok, don't wake her up.
Nikki: Is it time, Daddy?
Ruther: Tell Mommy later that Daddy has an email for her
Nikki: There's Ethan sleeping on Mommy's back. I will just tic toe (he means "tip toe"), right Daddy
Ruther: Okay, just be a good boy.
Isn't that cute? After I read this I felt like they were talking to each other. Actually, the other day, Ruther was asking me when we're giving Nikki his own email account. I told him it's too soon but I know that Nikki would love to write letters and messages to my mom and dad. =) Maybe we could do that next year. =D
FUN... AND SICKNESS
Yesterday, the weather was good to us. In the morning, it was raining hard and I was worried that I won't be able to bring the boys with me to Alabang Town Center to meet Ruther there. The Lord was good and by 1pm, the sun was out so at 3, I got the boys ready and then I had a shower and changed. A few minutes before 4pm, we left the house. We made it to Alabang Town Center at around 440pm and the boys were so excited to play on the slides. Ruther joined us at 530 and we went around for a bit and checked some of the stores. We got hungry after so we had our dinner at Gerry's Grill and Ruther and I really enjoyed their grilled pork spareribs. Yummy! After that, we checked out a few other stores and got some drinks at Starbucks. I got a caramel frappuccino and Ruther got the toffee nut frappuccino. Mmmmm...
After that, Ruther asked me if we could pass by SM Southmall because he wanted to check out SM Appliance. He wanted to know how to activate the Picture in Picture feature on our tv and the sales people there said they could teach him how. So we went there and while he was learning how to do that, the boys and I went in search for Happy Cream Puffs. I read in a blog that this was more yummy than Beard Papa's cream puffs (which I found hard to believe) and I was curious so I decided to give it a try. I also found out that there was a Happy Cream Puffs store at SM Southmall so I had to search for it first because I didn't know where it was located. Fortunately I didn't have to look long because it was at the food court. I got the small puffs and ordered 5 plain and 5 caramel cream puffs for P110 (approximately US$2.50). When I tried one, it was okay; puffy, creamy, not too sweet, but I still like the Beard Papa version more (the pastry was crispy) even if costs a lot here (P50 per cream puff!!). But I really miss those cream puffs and when Ruther and I were in Japan we would buy half a dozen whenever we would drop by Yokohama station. They were just that yummy. =D Anyway, I bought the boys some ice cream and after a few minutes, we headed home. It was raining hard on the way but fortunately, it cleared a bit when we stopped in front of the house. Ethan got a bit rained on so now he has a slight fever, poor little guy. He refused to leave my side the whole morning and now he's taking a nap. I hope he gets better in the next few days. It's so sad seeing him so listless... =(
After that, Ruther asked me if we could pass by SM Southmall because he wanted to check out SM Appliance. He wanted to know how to activate the Picture in Picture feature on our tv and the sales people there said they could teach him how. So we went there and while he was learning how to do that, the boys and I went in search for Happy Cream Puffs. I read in a blog that this was more yummy than Beard Papa's cream puffs (which I found hard to believe) and I was curious so I decided to give it a try. I also found out that there was a Happy Cream Puffs store at SM Southmall so I had to search for it first because I didn't know where it was located. Fortunately I didn't have to look long because it was at the food court. I got the small puffs and ordered 5 plain and 5 caramel cream puffs for P110 (approximately US$2.50). When I tried one, it was okay; puffy, creamy, not too sweet, but I still like the Beard Papa version more (the pastry was crispy) even if costs a lot here (P50 per cream puff!!). But I really miss those cream puffs and when Ruther and I were in Japan we would buy half a dozen whenever we would drop by Yokohama station. They were just that yummy. =D Anyway, I bought the boys some ice cream and after a few minutes, we headed home. It was raining hard on the way but fortunately, it cleared a bit when we stopped in front of the house. Ethan got a bit rained on so now he has a slight fever, poor little guy. He refused to leave my side the whole morning and now he's taking a nap. I hope he gets better in the next few days. It's so sad seeing him so listless... =(
SANTA
This photo was taken today when the boys and I met up with Ruther at the mall. Isn't the Santa cute? =D Anyway, Ethan didn't want to go near it, he was cranky at that time. Too bad. But Nikki looks so cute in the photo! =D
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
RAINY DAY
Since early this morning the day was cloudy. So it's no surprise that it's raining now. It's actually quite pleasant and cool at this time. I will however have to go out later in the afternoon to meet Ruther after work. He wants to check some stores at a mall and wants me and the boys to meet him there. However, I am worried about the weather and commuting with the boys to Alabang Town Center. It's not easy commuting there (I would have to take 3 tricycle rides and a jeepney ride) and I don't want the boys to get sick in the rain especially Nikki, because his birthday is coming up soon. So I told Ruther that if the rains won't let up, I'll just leave the boys home and meet him at the mall. He was okay with that. We could always have a date later. =D
.....
Ruther will be attending the funeral of his officemate (Jeb) who died last week. He told me that it will be somewhere in Cavite so he'll only be at work in the morning and absent himself in the afternoon. The burial will probably be at around 3pm or so. Ruther mentioned over the phone that he found out that whenever Jeb would go to the hospital for operations, it would always be raining. And now it's raining. Coincidence?
.....
Ruther will be attending the funeral of his officemate (Jeb) who died last week. He told me that it will be somewhere in Cavite so he'll only be at work in the morning and absent himself in the afternoon. The burial will probably be at around 3pm or so. Ruther mentioned over the phone that he found out that whenever Jeb would go to the hospital for operations, it would always be raining. And now it's raining. Coincidence?
FOUNTAIN
Ethan and the fountain. This photo was taken at Robinson's Place Manila, one of my favorite malls, a few days before Ruther came home.
GETTING COLD
I noticed that the nights are noticeably cooler now. Not that I'm complaining. =D It's been awhile since I felt the cool chill late in the year. I remember when I was little, I would wear a warm sweater or jacket in the early mornings or even when I would go to school at 630am. I also remember that taking a bath in the mornings were such an ordeal for me because of the cold water. I really can't take the cold water. I always get a tummyache so my dad had a water heater installed so that we could have warm baths in the mornings. But even so, whenever I would leave the bathroom, my skin would turn all goosebumpy because the air was so cold. It's just not the same these days. Of course, the greenhouse effect/depletion of the ozone layer has something to do with that and it's sad really. But that doesn't mean we still can't enjoy the early morning chill. Or what's left of it.
.....
I did a lot of gift-wrapping today. I still haven't placed the presents under the tree because I want to print a photo-card (instead of a gift tag) to place on the presents. I'm thinking of picking one of our family photos last year. Those were fun photos so I'm sure I could find a perfect one for the photo-card. Anyway, a few more presents to purchase and I'm all set. =D
.....
Nikki's birthday is fast approaching! The other day, I asked him again what cake he wanted for his birthday and he said that he wanted the Incredibles. I asked him if he was sure because last time, he told me he wanted a Toy Story cake. He said he was sure and Ethan could have the Toy Story theme. Silly boy. Anyway, I already know what to get Nikki for his birthday. We're getting him the Twister game. I know we'll all have a blast playing that one. It's kinda expensive (priced at around P900 - approximately US$20) but I'm sure it'll be a game that we will be playing again and again. I hope Nikki will like it. He was kinda excited about the Twister game the first time he played it so I hope he'll enjoy playing the game. =D
.....
I did a lot of gift-wrapping today. I still haven't placed the presents under the tree because I want to print a photo-card (instead of a gift tag) to place on the presents. I'm thinking of picking one of our family photos last year. Those were fun photos so I'm sure I could find a perfect one for the photo-card. Anyway, a few more presents to purchase and I'm all set. =D
.....
Nikki's birthday is fast approaching! The other day, I asked him again what cake he wanted for his birthday and he said that he wanted the Incredibles. I asked him if he was sure because last time, he told me he wanted a Toy Story cake. He said he was sure and Ethan could have the Toy Story theme. Silly boy. Anyway, I already know what to get Nikki for his birthday. We're getting him the Twister game. I know we'll all have a blast playing that one. It's kinda expensive (priced at around P900 - approximately US$20) but I'm sure it'll be a game that we will be playing again and again. I hope Nikki will like it. He was kinda excited about the Twister game the first time he played it so I hope he'll enjoy playing the game. =D
Monday, November 19, 2007
BEAR
Christmas is almost here! Yay! This photo was taken at a mall. When I saw that cute bear, I could not resist and told Nikki I wanted to take his photo with it. =D Am SO excited for Christmas!
Sunday, November 18, 2007
CLIMATE CHANGES
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071117/ap_on_sc/climate_change_conference;_ylt=AsGbMgxgQkENdUxStP4Q5DOs0NUE
UN panel: Climate change accelerating
By ARTHUR MAX, Associated Press Writer
VALENCIA, Spain - The Earth is hurtling toward a warmer climate at a quickening pace, a Nobel-winning U.N. scientific panel said in a landmark report released Saturday, warning of inevitable human suffering and the threat of extinction for some species.
As early as 2020, 75 million to 250 million people in Africa will suffer water shortages, residents of Asia's megacities will be at great risk of river and coastal flooding, Europeans can expect extensive species loss, and North Americans will experience longer and hotter heat waves and greater competition for water, the report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change says.
U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon said climate change imperils "the most precious treasures of our planet."
The potential impact of global warming is "so severe and so sweeping that only urgent, global action will do," Ban told the IPCC after it issued its fourth and final report this year.
The IPCC adopted the report, along with a summary, after five days of sometimes tense negotiations. It lays out blueprints for avoiding the worst catastrophes — and various possible outcomes, depending on how quickly and decisively action is taken.
The document says recent research has heightened concern that the poor and the elderly will suffer most from climate change; that hunger and disease will be more common; that droughts, floods and heat waves will afflict the world's poorest regions; and that more animal and plant species will vanish.
The Summary for Policymakers, and the longer version, called the synthesis report, distill thousands of pages of data and computer models from six years of research compiled by the IPCC.
The information is expected to guide policy makers meeting in Bali, Indonesia, next month to discuss an agreement to succeed the Kyoto Protocol, which expires in 2012.
The panel was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize this year along with former Vice President Al Gore for their efforts to raise awareness about the effects of climate change.
The report is important because it is adopted by consensus, meaning countries accept the underlying science and cannot disavow its conclusions. While it does not commit governments to a specific course of action, it provides a common scientific baseline for the political talks.
The U.N. says a new global plan must be in place by 2009 to ensure a smooth transition after the expiration of the Kyoto terms, which require 36 industrial countries to radically reduce their carbon emissions by 2012.
"There are real and affordable ways to deal with climate change," Ban said. He said a new agreement should provide funding to help poor countries adopt clean energy and to adapt to changing climates.
The report says emissions of carbon, which comes primarily from fossil fuels, must stabilize by 2015 and go down after that. Otherwise the consequences could be "disastrous," said IPCC chairman Rajendra Pachauri.
In the best-case scenario, temperatures will continue to rise from carbon already in the atmosphere, the report said. Even if factories were shut down today and cars taken off the roads, the average sea level will reach as high as 4 1/2 feet higher than the preindustrial period, or about 1850.
"We have already committed the world to sea level rise," said Pachauri. If the Greenland ice sheet melts, the scientists couldn't even predict by how many meters the seas will rise, drowning coastal cities.
Yet differences remain stark on how to control carbon emissions.
While the European Union has taken the lead in enforcing the carbon emission targets outlined in Kyoto, the United States opted out of the 1997 accord.
President Bush described it as flawed because major developing countries such as India and China, which are large carbon emitters, were excluded from any obligations. He also favors a voluntary agreement.
Sharon Hays, a White House science official and head of the U.S. delegation, said the certainty of climate change was clearer now than when Bush rejected Kyoto.
"What's changed since 2001 is the scientific certainty that this is happening," she said in a conference call to reporters late Friday. "Back in 2001 the IPCC report said it is likely that humans were having an impact on the climate," but confidence in human responsibility had increased since then.
"What's new is the clarity of the signal, how clear the scientific message is," said Yvo de Boer, the U.N.'s top climate change official. "The politicians have no excuse not to act."
Opening with a sweeping statement directed at climate change skeptics, the summary declares that climate systems have already begun to change.
Unless action is taken, human activity could lead to "abrupt and irreversible changes" that would make the planet unrecognizable.
Advocacy groups hailed the report as indispensable for the 10,000 delegates expected at Bali.
"We expect to see their personal copies of the Synthesis Report return from Bali, battered and worn from frequent use, with paragraphs underlined and notes in the margin," said Stephanie Tunmore of Greenpeace.
UN panel: Climate change accelerating
By ARTHUR MAX, Associated Press Writer
VALENCIA, Spain - The Earth is hurtling toward a warmer climate at a quickening pace, a Nobel-winning U.N. scientific panel said in a landmark report released Saturday, warning of inevitable human suffering and the threat of extinction for some species.
As early as 2020, 75 million to 250 million people in Africa will suffer water shortages, residents of Asia's megacities will be at great risk of river and coastal flooding, Europeans can expect extensive species loss, and North Americans will experience longer and hotter heat waves and greater competition for water, the report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change says.
U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon said climate change imperils "the most precious treasures of our planet."
The potential impact of global warming is "so severe and so sweeping that only urgent, global action will do," Ban told the IPCC after it issued its fourth and final report this year.
The IPCC adopted the report, along with a summary, after five days of sometimes tense negotiations. It lays out blueprints for avoiding the worst catastrophes — and various possible outcomes, depending on how quickly and decisively action is taken.
The document says recent research has heightened concern that the poor and the elderly will suffer most from climate change; that hunger and disease will be more common; that droughts, floods and heat waves will afflict the world's poorest regions; and that more animal and plant species will vanish.
The Summary for Policymakers, and the longer version, called the synthesis report, distill thousands of pages of data and computer models from six years of research compiled by the IPCC.
The information is expected to guide policy makers meeting in Bali, Indonesia, next month to discuss an agreement to succeed the Kyoto Protocol, which expires in 2012.
The panel was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize this year along with former Vice President Al Gore for their efforts to raise awareness about the effects of climate change.
The report is important because it is adopted by consensus, meaning countries accept the underlying science and cannot disavow its conclusions. While it does not commit governments to a specific course of action, it provides a common scientific baseline for the political talks.
The U.N. says a new global plan must be in place by 2009 to ensure a smooth transition after the expiration of the Kyoto terms, which require 36 industrial countries to radically reduce their carbon emissions by 2012.
"There are real and affordable ways to deal with climate change," Ban said. He said a new agreement should provide funding to help poor countries adopt clean energy and to adapt to changing climates.
The report says emissions of carbon, which comes primarily from fossil fuels, must stabilize by 2015 and go down after that. Otherwise the consequences could be "disastrous," said IPCC chairman Rajendra Pachauri.
In the best-case scenario, temperatures will continue to rise from carbon already in the atmosphere, the report said. Even if factories were shut down today and cars taken off the roads, the average sea level will reach as high as 4 1/2 feet higher than the preindustrial period, or about 1850.
"We have already committed the world to sea level rise," said Pachauri. If the Greenland ice sheet melts, the scientists couldn't even predict by how many meters the seas will rise, drowning coastal cities.
Yet differences remain stark on how to control carbon emissions.
While the European Union has taken the lead in enforcing the carbon emission targets outlined in Kyoto, the United States opted out of the 1997 accord.
President Bush described it as flawed because major developing countries such as India and China, which are large carbon emitters, were excluded from any obligations. He also favors a voluntary agreement.
Sharon Hays, a White House science official and head of the U.S. delegation, said the certainty of climate change was clearer now than when Bush rejected Kyoto.
"What's changed since 2001 is the scientific certainty that this is happening," she said in a conference call to reporters late Friday. "Back in 2001 the IPCC report said it is likely that humans were having an impact on the climate," but confidence in human responsibility had increased since then.
"What's new is the clarity of the signal, how clear the scientific message is," said Yvo de Boer, the U.N.'s top climate change official. "The politicians have no excuse not to act."
Opening with a sweeping statement directed at climate change skeptics, the summary declares that climate systems have already begun to change.
Unless action is taken, human activity could lead to "abrupt and irreversible changes" that would make the planet unrecognizable.
Advocacy groups hailed the report as indispensable for the 10,000 delegates expected at Bali.
"We expect to see their personal copies of the Synthesis Report return from Bali, battered and worn from frequent use, with paragraphs underlined and notes in the margin," said Stephanie Tunmore of Greenpeace.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
NEXT TO ME
I cannot even begin to describe how wonderful it is to wake up with Ruther beside me in the mornings. My day hasn't even started and it already feels complete. It's just that wonderful, really. I can't even express how much I've missed a simple thing like that with Ruther gone all these months. And now that he's here, everyday is just even more beautiful. When Ruther was in Japan, he would tell me that even if he gets an 8-hour or 9-hour sleep/rest, he would still feel tired in the morning. My suspicion was his occasional snoring but when he was home and spent the first night in the room, the next morning he told me that he had the most restful sleep in months and he added that it might be because of me and I just felt so unbelievably happy. Okay, I know there might not be any truth in that but still, it made me happy, so there. =D
.....
Earlier tonight, I felt like doing a bit of exercise so I decided to do some walking. At around 530pm, I went out to buy some pan de sal at a bakery and then I remembered that Ruther wanted to have some pork barbeque for dinner tonight so I made a quick stop at my regular vendor and bought 10 sticks of barbeque, 4 sticks of isaw (grilled chicken intestine) and 2 sticks of balunbalunan (grilled chicken gizzard). Of course, I had to buy Coke to go with that. Anyway, Ruther, Russell and Ron ate the barbeque with garlic rice (which I cooked) but since my tummy was feeling a bit funny, I ate mine with some pandesal. Weird, I know, but yummy, just the same. After dinner, Ruther set up the Wii and the four of them (Ruther, Ron, Russ and Nikki) are having a blast downstairs. I did some tennis and bowling earlier but since I had some chores to do I let Nikki take over and now I'm updating my blog. =D I think the night is just beginning...
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Tomorrow, Ruther and some of his friends are planning to play badminton at Makati. I am looking forward to playing with them because I really want to play with a group. The only people I play with are my sis and brother and they are usually busy during the weekends sometimes. Anyway, we have yet to finalize the plans but I think it will push through. Or at least I hope it will.
.....
Earlier tonight, I felt like doing a bit of exercise so I decided to do some walking. At around 530pm, I went out to buy some pan de sal at a bakery and then I remembered that Ruther wanted to have some pork barbeque for dinner tonight so I made a quick stop at my regular vendor and bought 10 sticks of barbeque, 4 sticks of isaw (grilled chicken intestine) and 2 sticks of balunbalunan (grilled chicken gizzard). Of course, I had to buy Coke to go with that. Anyway, Ruther, Russell and Ron ate the barbeque with garlic rice (which I cooked) but since my tummy was feeling a bit funny, I ate mine with some pandesal. Weird, I know, but yummy, just the same. After dinner, Ruther set up the Wii and the four of them (Ruther, Ron, Russ and Nikki) are having a blast downstairs. I did some tennis and bowling earlier but since I had some chores to do I let Nikki take over and now I'm updating my blog. =D I think the night is just beginning...
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Tomorrow, Ruther and some of his friends are planning to play badminton at Makati. I am looking forward to playing with them because I really want to play with a group. The only people I play with are my sis and brother and they are usually busy during the weekends sometimes. Anyway, we have yet to finalize the plans but I think it will push through. Or at least I hope it will.
BOWLING
This photo was taken a few nights ago when we had that bowling game with Ruther's friends. Nikki played as well and used this 6-pound ball. He just loved the game. =D
Friday, November 16, 2007
A WEEK
I can't believe that Ruther has been home for a week already! This morning, as Ruther was getting ready for work I just suddenly realized that it was Friday today and that he arrived a week ago! So I hugged him from behind and said, "You know, sweetie, you've been home a week now." And he gave me a kiss. Wasn't that sweet? =D
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Tonight, Ruther and some of his co-workers will be visiting the remains of his former officemate who passed away a few days ago. When this guy was in Japan, he suffered a massive stroke that incapacitated him and affected part of his brain. He was practically a vegetable after that and until a few days ago, Ruther told me that it seemed as though he was just waiting for his father to come home from overseas so he could rest in peace. But apparently, his body could not hold on long enough and he expired 2 nights ago. So sad. =( The funeral home is not too far from home so I told Ruther that while he's there, the boys and I will spend some time at a nearby fastfood restaurant so the boys could play on the slides and then we could all go home together. He said he was fine with that so I think I have to get ready now since it's already 6pm. I'm planning on paying for a mass for Ruther's former officemate this Sunday. Hopefully, he and his family will find peace with God.
See you all tomorrow!
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Tonight, Ruther and some of his co-workers will be visiting the remains of his former officemate who passed away a few days ago. When this guy was in Japan, he suffered a massive stroke that incapacitated him and affected part of his brain. He was practically a vegetable after that and until a few days ago, Ruther told me that it seemed as though he was just waiting for his father to come home from overseas so he could rest in peace. But apparently, his body could not hold on long enough and he expired 2 nights ago. So sad. =( The funeral home is not too far from home so I told Ruther that while he's there, the boys and I will spend some time at a nearby fastfood restaurant so the boys could play on the slides and then we could all go home together. He said he was fine with that so I think I have to get ready now since it's already 6pm. I'm planning on paying for a mass for Ruther's former officemate this Sunday. Hopefully, he and his family will find peace with God.
See you all tomorrow!
FINALLY!
At last, I finally got around to replying to all your comments! Sorry that it took me forever. But do remember that I so appreciate your wonderful messages and the time you spent writing them. Sometimes, when a particular comment touches me I read it over again. It's always like I'm listening to my friends give advice over the phone. It's wonderful to have you guys to "talk" to even when I post about the most mundane things in the world or get so repetitive or get so absolutely boring. Thanks for the times when you have to put up with my weirdness (oh yes, it comes and goes) and for my absences. Just want you all to know that I appreciate every one of you and your friendship is always special to me.
Thanks again you guys! =D
Thanks again you guys! =D
Thursday, November 15, 2007
DECORATING THE TREE
Here's Nikki with our tree. He was so excited to decorate it, I just let him have his fun. Of course he was very proud of his work. I must say, the tree looks really lovely.
STAY AT HOME
Because of the strong rains this morning and some unforeseen circumstance, Ruther stayed home today. I know that this is a no-no for some people out there, but I'm just glad for the extra day of bonding. This is the first day we've stayed home and it was just wonderful to cook for him again and to catch up with our shows. And I love that the boys are bonding with him like they used to when we were in Japan. But most especially, I loved cuddling with my sweetie all day and having champorado with him for merienda and just being with him. It's just absolutely wonderful if you ask me. And even when we're not doing anything, it still is absolutely wonderful. =D
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The other night (Tuesday), Ruther treated some of his close friends for some seafood at dampa. We used to eat at the one near home (at Paranaque) but since some of his friends would be coming from Makati (Ruther's office is in Alabang), they decided to have the dinner at the dampa located at Macapagal Boulevard. It was fun seeing them again. Some of Ruther's friends were his former co-workers so I know them. After dinner, they decided to play a bit of bowling at SM Mall of Asia which delighted Nikki (he loves to bowl even if he has some difficulty rolling the huge ball). Anyway we had great fun and again, I just loved spending time with Ruther even if it was a weekday and even if we arrived home at around 12 midnight.
Am so looking forward to more fun!
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We are just loving the tv! This Samsung LCD rocks! Of course, I'm biased because this is the first LCD tv we've owned but still, it's pretty wonderful. Ruther has been trying to do that picture-in-picture thing but I think he still has to study the manual a bit more. But I'm pretty sure that he'll get it eventually. =D
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The other night (Tuesday), Ruther treated some of his close friends for some seafood at dampa. We used to eat at the one near home (at Paranaque) but since some of his friends would be coming from Makati (Ruther's office is in Alabang), they decided to have the dinner at the dampa located at Macapagal Boulevard. It was fun seeing them again. Some of Ruther's friends were his former co-workers so I know them. After dinner, they decided to play a bit of bowling at SM Mall of Asia which delighted Nikki (he loves to bowl even if he has some difficulty rolling the huge ball). Anyway we had great fun and again, I just loved spending time with Ruther even if it was a weekday and even if we arrived home at around 12 midnight.
Am so looking forward to more fun!
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We are just loving the tv! This Samsung LCD rocks! Of course, I'm biased because this is the first LCD tv we've owned but still, it's pretty wonderful. Ruther has been trying to do that picture-in-picture thing but I think he still has to study the manual a bit more. But I'm pretty sure that he'll get it eventually. =D
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
STILL CAN'T BELIEVE HE'S HOME
The past days have been such a flury of activity that I apologize for not keeping my blog updated. It's just that since Ruther came home, I just want to spend every minute of every day with him. It's truly wonderful having him home again, seeing him interact with the boys and to have him here beside me physically. I just can't describe the myriad of emotions that overwhelm me everyday since Ruther arrived. I am just feeling so absolutely joyous I think I can sing the Alleluia song (you know the one with the chorus). =D Anyway, I'll do my best to post everyday now. Since Ruther has gone to work today and will continue to do in the following days, I think I can accomplish that. =D
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I miss visiting blogs and reading your posts! I promise to drop by your lovely sites one of these days. It's always wonderful to have a peek in your lives, to wonder how your week went and if anything new happened while I was "away". It's really very similar to visiting a friend. And I really missed doing that and getting some info about your lives these past days. But I want you all to know that just because I've been busy doesn't mean I've forgotten you. I promise to leave a message in your site as soon as I can. And really, thanks to you all for understanding my situation now. Really appreciate it. =D
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Mommy and I spent the morning shopping again. What else is new? She's going home to Zamboanga on Thursday so she wanted to get whatever else she forgot to buy the first time we were at Baclaran. Since there was no one available to drive her to Baclaran, I of course, could not let her commute alone so I told Ruther that I could accompany her this morning. We came home at 12noon and I was so exhausted and hungry. After having lunch and having a bath I decided to get some sleep so now I feel so much better. Tomorrow, we're going to the mall because I want to get my dad some food as pasalubong. I think it would be nice to bond with Mommy before she leaves too so yeah, I'm looking forward to that. =D
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I miss visiting blogs and reading your posts! I promise to drop by your lovely sites one of these days. It's always wonderful to have a peek in your lives, to wonder how your week went and if anything new happened while I was "away". It's really very similar to visiting a friend. And I really missed doing that and getting some info about your lives these past days. But I want you all to know that just because I've been busy doesn't mean I've forgotten you. I promise to leave a message in your site as soon as I can. And really, thanks to you all for understanding my situation now. Really appreciate it. =D
.....
Mommy and I spent the morning shopping again. What else is new? She's going home to Zamboanga on Thursday so she wanted to get whatever else she forgot to buy the first time we were at Baclaran. Since there was no one available to drive her to Baclaran, I of course, could not let her commute alone so I told Ruther that I could accompany her this morning. We came home at 12noon and I was so exhausted and hungry. After having lunch and having a bath I decided to get some sleep so now I feel so much better. Tomorrow, we're going to the mall because I want to get my dad some food as pasalubong. I think it would be nice to bond with Mommy before she leaves too so yeah, I'm looking forward to that. =D
Monday, November 12, 2007
RUTHER'S HOME!
I can't believe it's only been 2 days!! So much has happened I don't even know where to start!
Anyway, last Friday Ruther's arrival happened without any hitches. He arrived 30 minutes ahead of schedule (1pm instead of 130pm) which made me panic a bit because when he called a few minutes after they landed, we were still home! So I quickly dressed up, dressed the boys as well and rushed my brother-in-law to the van. When we arrived at the airport, I was SO happy to see Ruther, I think I went down the van before it even stopped completely. I didn't care. I was so happy to see him and to have him home. The boys were all over him in the van and after a quick stop for some lunch (I didn't have lunch because I was too excited and Ruther didn't eat much at the plane) we went to the Land Transportation Office (LTO) near our home so Ruther could renew his driver's license. Ruther hasn't driven in almost 2 years and his license was expired so he thought that it would be best to do the renewal then so that we could go out during the weekend. We didn't take long at the LTO. The process is so much faster and cost Ruther less than P500. Since Russell had somewhere to go, Ruther had to drive. I was worried about that but he handled the wheel smoothly so
we decided to go to SM Southmall so we could get a TV for our room. On the way there, the boys slept so Ruther and I had time to ourselves and talked about many things. At SM, after checking some appliance stores, we settled for a Samsung LCD TV (Model LA32S81B) which had a price of P47,900 (approx. US$1122). We found out that if we paid cash, we would be given a P5,000 discount which will mark the price down to P42,900. Although it's quite costly, I understand why Ruther would love to have that tv. He loves his gadgets and he did work hard for that. Besides, we did a lot of comparisons and that was the best price because other LCD TVs cost around P60,000 and higher. So yeah, it's okay. I just told Ruther that we're leaving his 13th month pay untouched after this. (Haha!) After we got the tv, we did a little bit of shopping after and the boys played a bit at Storyland and then we had dinner at Max's because Ruther was craving for that. Of course I had to give in. =D After dinner, we headed home and the boys were so engrossed with all their pasalubongs (presents from Ruther) it was like an early Christmas surprise. Me, I'm just so glad that Ruther is home. That really is the best present ever.
Anyway, last Friday Ruther's arrival happened without any hitches. He arrived 30 minutes ahead of schedule (1pm instead of 130pm) which made me panic a bit because when he called a few minutes after they landed, we were still home! So I quickly dressed up, dressed the boys as well and rushed my brother-in-law to the van. When we arrived at the airport, I was SO happy to see Ruther, I think I went down the van before it even stopped completely. I didn't care. I was so happy to see him and to have him home. The boys were all over him in the van and after a quick stop for some lunch (I didn't have lunch because I was too excited and Ruther didn't eat much at the plane) we went to the Land Transportation Office (LTO) near our home so Ruther could renew his driver's license. Ruther hasn't driven in almost 2 years and his license was expired so he thought that it would be best to do the renewal then so that we could go out during the weekend. We didn't take long at the LTO. The process is so much faster and cost Ruther less than P500. Since Russell had somewhere to go, Ruther had to drive. I was worried about that but he handled the wheel smoothly so
we decided to go to SM Southmall so we could get a TV for our room. On the way there, the boys slept so Ruther and I had time to ourselves and talked about many things. At SM, after checking some appliance stores, we settled for a Samsung LCD TV (Model LA32S81B) which had a price of P47,900 (approx. US$1122). We found out that if we paid cash, we would be given a P5,000 discount which will mark the price down to P42,900. Although it's quite costly, I understand why Ruther would love to have that tv. He loves his gadgets and he did work hard for that. Besides, we did a lot of comparisons and that was the best price because other LCD TVs cost around P60,000 and higher. So yeah, it's okay. I just told Ruther that we're leaving his 13th month pay untouched after this. (Haha!) After we got the tv, we did a little bit of shopping after and the boys played a bit at Storyland and then we had dinner at Max's because Ruther was craving for that. Of course I had to give in. =D After dinner, we headed home and the boys were so engrossed with all their pasalubongs (presents from Ruther) it was like an early Christmas surprise. Me, I'm just so glad that Ruther is home. That really is the best present ever.
Friday, November 09, 2007
IT'S FRIDAY!!
The day has finally come. Ruther is coming home today! I am so excited! I called him this morning at 4am Japan time (3am Manila time) just to make sure he was up and getting ready to leave. He's supposed to take the first train (430am) to Yokohama station so he could take a bus from YCAT (Yokohama City Air Terminal) to Narita airport. He told me that he was able to get some zzz's in the bus, which was good because he really lacks sleep. I called him again at around 830am Japan time (730 Manila time) to see if he made it smoothly through immigration and such and yeah, he was at the waiting area anticipating the boarding call. When I asked him if he had breakfast, he said that he had a banana muffin. That's good because anyway, he'll get more food in the plane. I also told him to pray before take-off for a safe trip. He told me he will. I already paid for a mass yesterday for that intention (safe trip) so I hope God will watch over him. I know that Nikki is excited to see his dad. Oh yeah, speaking of Nikki, here's the sign he made for Ruther:
Isn't that cute? I just wrote the words using a pencil and Nikki traced them with a permanent marker and filled the letters with color using chalk. Oh yeah, he also did those doodles. I think it's really cute! Later, I'll take a photo of Ruther with the boys in front of this sign. =D
Thursday, November 08, 2007
NIKKI IS IN SP!
As promised, here are photos of the magazine (Smart Parenting) where Nikki was featured! Yay!
This is the cover of the magazine. I really was not expecting Nikki's photo to be published because to be honest, I forgot all about it! Hahaha! I sent the photo months before so I didn't think that Nikki would be one of the few lucky ones to be chosen for this month's kiddie greets. But well, it really was a nice surprise. And of course, bragging rights for me once more. =D
There's Nikki at the bottom of the page. His birthday's on the 29th so he's the last in line. No prob with me! =D
Up close. This photo was taken last July at Alabang Town Center.
MOM TIME
Yesterday was a fun day for me, my sis, my mom and the boys. As planned, we picked my mom up at the airport (which is only about 30 minutes away from home - with light traffic) at around 1240pm. At around 1210pm, it rained SO hard, I was worried that the plane would be more delayed or we would get stuck in the floodwater (yup, it floods in some parts here!). It was such a torrent even Nikki was worried. Fortunately, at around 1225, the rain abated and so we left for the airport. We made good time because mommy claimed her baggages by the time we arrive there. After that, we headed for the hospital for her check-up. I decided to go with her instead of waiting at the mall and it was another learning experience for Nikki. He kept on telling me, "We're in the hospital, Mommy." But it really wasn't in the hospital itself because we stayed in the doctor's lounge while Mommy waited for her turn. I guess it helps when your sister/daughter is a doctor there. Hahaha! Anyway, after the mammogram, we headed for the nearby mall and spent most of the afternoon shopping. My mom bought rubber shoes for the boys (yay!) and some stuff for my dad too. I bought a bug book for Ethan (which he loved, but what else is new?) and my new favorite popcorn (Chef Tony light popcorn), some hankies for Ruther and some other things. Nikki spent an hour in a play center while Ethan slept in his stroller. It was a good thing everyone had a fun time there. We left the mall at around past 6 and it was just too bad that my brother wasn't with us. But of course, we could always go out again in the weekend. =D
YAY FRIDAY!
I can't believe that Friday is almost here! It's so close I could almost taste it.
Aside from my wedding day and arriving in Japan, I have never felt this anxious. It's almost silly, really but I just can't help it. I just hate being separated from Ruther. It's just too hard and just too frequent. I just want it to stop already. Hopefully, in the very near future, God will grant me this request.
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Ruther will be taking the morning flight home and he'll be arriving here around 130 in the afternoon. The boys and I are sooo excited! Nikki and I made a small banner for Ruther that said, "Welcome Home Daddy!" Nikki loved it and wanted us to post it on their bedroom door so that it would be the first thing Ruther sees when he gets home. Isn't that sweet? Will post that photo soon along with the other photos I promised to post here... Sigh...
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To everyone who has been so patient with my infrequent blogs, thanks for bearing with me. My mind is just filled with a LOT of things right now and I'm sort of panicky still because I want the room to be absolutely perfect on Friday but there always seems to be something that needs a little bit more arranging/fixing/decorating. Frankly, it's driving me nuts! But hopefully, Ruther will like (I'm hoping he'll love) it. Will keep you posted. =D
Aside from my wedding day and arriving in Japan, I have never felt this anxious. It's almost silly, really but I just can't help it. I just hate being separated from Ruther. It's just too hard and just too frequent. I just want it to stop already. Hopefully, in the very near future, God will grant me this request.
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Ruther will be taking the morning flight home and he'll be arriving here around 130 in the afternoon. The boys and I are sooo excited! Nikki and I made a small banner for Ruther that said, "Welcome Home Daddy!" Nikki loved it and wanted us to post it on their bedroom door so that it would be the first thing Ruther sees when he gets home. Isn't that sweet? Will post that photo soon along with the other photos I promised to post here... Sigh...
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To everyone who has been so patient with my infrequent blogs, thanks for bearing with me. My mind is just filled with a LOT of things right now and I'm sort of panicky still because I want the room to be absolutely perfect on Friday but there always seems to be something that needs a little bit more arranging/fixing/decorating. Frankly, it's driving me nuts! But hopefully, Ruther will like (I'm hoping he'll love) it. Will keep you posted. =D
Monday, November 05, 2007
SORE
My right arm is so sore! This is what I get for giving it my 100% at badminton after months of inactivity. I'm really not bummed about it. It actually is okay that I got to exercise and have fun. It's just that I have a lot of things to do around here and it doesn't help when my right arm hurts once in a while. Oh well... Hopefully, in a few days' time, my arm will be better.
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My mom is arriving tomorrow at around 12 noon. She sent me an SMS asking if I was going with her tomorrow to the doctor. She's going to have her mammogram at Philippine General Hospital (where my sister is currently working at) and she said that the boys and I could wait for her at the nearby mall which is okay with me because I want to check some stuff there to add to my Christmas shopping. I'm sure it will be great to shop around that mall because it was one of my favorite malls when I was back in University. So yeah, hopefully it will be another fun family day for us. =D
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I went to the mall today to pay some bills and so I had the chance to buy 2 more copies of the Smart Parenting magazine. Now my mom will have her own copy and Nikki will have one too. =D So far, Nikki has had 3 magazine exposures. Not bad, right? I'll have to send Ethan's photo/s in as well. =D
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My mom is arriving tomorrow at around 12 noon. She sent me an SMS asking if I was going with her tomorrow to the doctor. She's going to have her mammogram at Philippine General Hospital (where my sister is currently working at) and she said that the boys and I could wait for her at the nearby mall which is okay with me because I want to check some stuff there to add to my Christmas shopping. I'm sure it will be great to shop around that mall because it was one of my favorite malls when I was back in University. So yeah, hopefully it will be another fun family day for us. =D
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I went to the mall today to pay some bills and so I had the chance to buy 2 more copies of the Smart Parenting magazine. Now my mom will have her own copy and Nikki will have one too. =D So far, Nikki has had 3 magazine exposures. Not bad, right? I'll have to send Ethan's photo/s in as well. =D
Sunday, November 04, 2007
SUSHI
I realize that I haven't posted a photo of Sushi for so long, so here's one. =D She was trying to tear some of Nikki's and Ethan's artworks and paper with her sharp teeth. She loves doing that. So I always have to make sure that the boys don't leave their books on the floor (which is next to impossible). =D
NIKKI IS IN SMART PARENTING MAG!
Nikki was featured in this month's kiddie greets in Smart Parenting Magazine! This is so great! I didn't think that he would be featured because Ethan's photo was not in the June 2007 issue (for his 4th birthday) and I was SO disappointed. I was really hoping that Nikki's photo would be shown though, because Smart Parenting magazine prints kids' photos from ages 1-6 years and Nikki is turning 6 this year! So it was a make or break thing. And I am so glad that he made it!! Of course, I showed everyone his photo! Now I have to get more magazines! I want Nikki to have his own copy and my mom would want one as well so hopefully I'll get more this week. =D Oh yeah, Ruther already saw it and he was quite proud of his little boy. I promise I'll post a photo of the page tomorrow... =D
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My day today started earlier than usual. My sis invited me to play badminton at around 8 this morning so I was up at around 745am. Since there were only the 3 of us, my brother and I played against my sister and then we switched and my sis and brother played against me. My last badminton game was when I was in Zamboanga and that was last summer! If I'm not mistaken, it was in May! So it's been a while since I played and well, not wanting to lose against my competitive siblings, I just jad to give it my all and so by afternoon, my muscles were mostly sore. My right arm kinda ached a bit but it's better now. Hopefully, when Ruther is home, we'll finally be able to play doubles (and hopefully, Ruther and I will win). =D
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My day today started earlier than usual. My sis invited me to play badminton at around 8 this morning so I was up at around 745am. Since there were only the 3 of us, my brother and I played against my sister and then we switched and my sis and brother played against me. My last badminton game was when I was in Zamboanga and that was last summer! If I'm not mistaken, it was in May! So it's been a while since I played and well, not wanting to lose against my competitive siblings, I just jad to give it my all and so by afternoon, my muscles were mostly sore. My right arm kinda ached a bit but it's better now. Hopefully, when Ruther is home, we'll finally be able to play doubles (and hopefully, Ruther and I will win). =D
Saturday, November 03, 2007
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMA!
It's Mama's birthday today. She is now 62 years old. Nikki gave her our present and as far as I could tell, she liked it so that was nice. Nothing special happened today. We just stayed home and fixed our stuff. By afternoon, my head ached again from the heat and the dust so I decided to take a break and I napped with the boys. When I woke up, Ethan was beside me and when he felt me stir, he kissed me awake. He is such a sweetie. =D I hope he will continue to kiss me awake even if he (and Nikki) sleeps in his own room and I'll be upstairs with Ruther. =(
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This is Ruther's last weekend in Japan for the year. He tells me that he has to fix his things in the apartment and will probably do that tonight and tomorrow. I don't know how he'll be able to do accomplish all that. He always does things at the last minute. At least I won't be there to obsess about it.
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This is Ruther's last weekend in Japan for the year. He tells me that he has to fix his things in the apartment and will probably do that tonight and tomorrow. I don't know how he'll be able to do accomplish all that. He always does things at the last minute. At least I won't be there to obsess about it.
THE SCIENTIST
Love this song...
The Scientist
Coldplay
Come up to meet you,
Tell you I’m sorry,
You don’t know how lovely you are
I had to find you,
Tell you I need you,
Tell you I set you apart
Tell me your secrets,
And ask me your questions,
Oh, let’s go back to the start
Runnin’ in circles,
Comet and tails,
Heads on the science apart
Nobody said it was easy
Oh It’s such a shame for us to part
Nobody said it was easy
No one ever said it would be this hard
Oh take me back to the start
I was just guessin’,
At numbers and figures,
Pullin’ the puzzles apart
Questions of science,
Science and progress,
Do not speak as loud as my heart
Tell me you love me,
Come back and haunt me,
Oh when I rush to the start
Runnin’ in circles,
Chasin’ our tails,
Comin’ back as we are
Nobody said it was easy
Oh, It’s such a shame for us to part
Nobody said it was easy
No one ever said it would be so hard
I’m goin’ back to the start
The Scientist
Coldplay
Come up to meet you,
Tell you I’m sorry,
You don’t know how lovely you are
I had to find you,
Tell you I need you,
Tell you I set you apart
Tell me your secrets,
And ask me your questions,
Oh, let’s go back to the start
Runnin’ in circles,
Comet and tails,
Heads on the science apart
Nobody said it was easy
Oh It’s such a shame for us to part
Nobody said it was easy
No one ever said it would be this hard
Oh take me back to the start
I was just guessin’,
At numbers and figures,
Pullin’ the puzzles apart
Questions of science,
Science and progress,
Do not speak as loud as my heart
Tell me you love me,
Come back and haunt me,
Oh when I rush to the start
Runnin’ in circles,
Chasin’ our tails,
Comin’ back as we are
Nobody said it was easy
Oh, It’s such a shame for us to part
Nobody said it was easy
No one ever said it would be so hard
I’m goin’ back to the start
MOM AND BABIES
Remember that photo of a basket of eggs I posted before? Well, the eggs hatched! Not all of them but the other day, Nikki was thoroughly delighted at the 5 yellow and 3 black chicks that followed their clucking mom. He was so fascinated he just sat and watched them one afternoon! Hahaha! Well, aren't the chicks cute and fluffy?
Photo taken a few days ago.
TGIF
It's Mama's birthday tomorrow! Yup, Ruther's mom. I already got her a present, a bottle of cologne. I hope she likes it. I already wrapped it up but I'm still planning to get her a cake tomorrow. Ethan will do the candle-blowing tomorrow, I'm sure.
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Speaking of birthdays, Nikki's birthday is this month! I can't believe my little boy is turning 6! He is growing up so fast! Huhuhu... I just don't think I'm ready for that yet... Oh no. =P Anyway, I asked him what kind of birthday cake he would want for his birthday and he said a Toy Story one. Uh, okay. Where do I get that? I think I'll check some of the bakeshops but if they don't have that theme, I'm sure I'll think of something. I always do anyway. =D
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My Christmas shopping is almost done! I just have to get a few other presents but I'm sure that before November is over all our presents will be under the tree (if we find the Christmas tree that is). I'm so excited! I'm just SO happy that Ruther will be spending Christmas here with us. This is going to be wonderful I'm sure. =D I have yet to plan everything for Christmas like what food to prepare, where we'll have our family photo, what activities we'll have, etc. Fun fun fun, I'm sure! Oh and did I mention that I'm SO excited?!? =D
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Speaking of birthdays, Nikki's birthday is this month! I can't believe my little boy is turning 6! He is growing up so fast! Huhuhu... I just don't think I'm ready for that yet... Oh no. =P Anyway, I asked him what kind of birthday cake he would want for his birthday and he said a Toy Story one. Uh, okay. Where do I get that? I think I'll check some of the bakeshops but if they don't have that theme, I'm sure I'll think of something. I always do anyway. =D
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My Christmas shopping is almost done! I just have to get a few other presents but I'm sure that before November is over all our presents will be under the tree (if we find the Christmas tree that is). I'm so excited! I'm just SO happy that Ruther will be spending Christmas here with us. This is going to be wonderful I'm sure. =D I have yet to plan everything for Christmas like what food to prepare, where we'll have our family photo, what activities we'll have, etc. Fun fun fun, I'm sure! Oh and did I mention that I'm SO excited?!? =D
Friday, November 02, 2007
ALL SOULS' DAY
http://all-souls-day.123holiday.net/
All Soul's Day (sometimes called the "Day of the Dead") is always November 2 (November 3rd if the 2nd falls on a Sunday).
All Soul's Day is a Roman Catholic day of remembrance for friends and loved ones who have passed away. This comes from the ancient Pagan Festival of the Dead, which celebrated the Pagan belief that the souls of the dead would return for a meal with the family. Candles in the window would guide the souls back home, and another place was set at the table. Children would come through the village, asking for food to be offered symbolically to the dead, then donated to feed the hungry.
The day purposely follows All Saint's Day in order to shift the focus from those in heaven to those in purgatory. It is celebrated with masses and festivities in honor of the dead. While the Feast of All Saints is a day to remember the glories of Heaven and those there, the Feast of All Souls reminds us of our obligations to live holy lives and that there will be purification of the souls of those destined for Heaven.
The Christian holiday of All Soul's Day pays respect and remembers the souls of all friends and loved ones who have died and gone to heaven. The living pray on behalf of Christians who are in purgatory, the state in the afterlife where souls are purified before proceeding to heaven. Souls in purgatory, who are members of the church just like living Christians, must suffer so that they can be purged of their sins. It is a time to pray for their souls that they may be received into heaven.
Upon death, it is believed that souls have not yet been cleansed of sin. Praying for souls of loved ones helps to remove the stain of sin, and allow the souls to enter the pearly gates of heaven. Through prayer and good works, living members of the church may help their departed friends and family. There are three Requiem Masses that are said by the clergy to assist the souls from Purgatory to Heaven: one for the celebrant, one for the departed, and one for the pope.
The traditions of the Feast of All Souls began independently of the Feast of All Saints. The Feast of All Souls owes its beginning to seventh century monks who decided to offer the mass on the day after Pentecost for their deceased community members. In the late tenth century, the Benedictine monastery in Cluny chose to move their mass for their dead to November 2, the day after the Feast of all Saints. This custom spread and in the thirteenth century, Rome put the feast on the calendar of the entire Church. The date remained November 2 so that all in the Communion of the Saints might be celebrated together.
All Soul's Day (sometimes called the "Day of the Dead") is always November 2 (November 3rd if the 2nd falls on a Sunday).
All Soul's Day is a Roman Catholic day of remembrance for friends and loved ones who have passed away. This comes from the ancient Pagan Festival of the Dead, which celebrated the Pagan belief that the souls of the dead would return for a meal with the family. Candles in the window would guide the souls back home, and another place was set at the table. Children would come through the village, asking for food to be offered symbolically to the dead, then donated to feed the hungry.
The day purposely follows All Saint's Day in order to shift the focus from those in heaven to those in purgatory. It is celebrated with masses and festivities in honor of the dead. While the Feast of All Saints is a day to remember the glories of Heaven and those there, the Feast of All Souls reminds us of our obligations to live holy lives and that there will be purification of the souls of those destined for Heaven.
The Christian holiday of All Soul's Day pays respect and remembers the souls of all friends and loved ones who have died and gone to heaven. The living pray on behalf of Christians who are in purgatory, the state in the afterlife where souls are purified before proceeding to heaven. Souls in purgatory, who are members of the church just like living Christians, must suffer so that they can be purged of their sins. It is a time to pray for their souls that they may be received into heaven.
Upon death, it is believed that souls have not yet been cleansed of sin. Praying for souls of loved ones helps to remove the stain of sin, and allow the souls to enter the pearly gates of heaven. Through prayer and good works, living members of the church may help their departed friends and family. There are three Requiem Masses that are said by the clergy to assist the souls from Purgatory to Heaven: one for the celebrant, one for the departed, and one for the pope.
The traditions of the Feast of All Souls began independently of the Feast of All Saints. The Feast of All Souls owes its beginning to seventh century monks who decided to offer the mass on the day after Pentecost for their deceased community members. In the late tenth century, the Benedictine monastery in Cluny chose to move their mass for their dead to November 2, the day after the Feast of all Saints. This custom spread and in the thirteenth century, Rome put the feast on the calendar of the entire Church. The date remained November 2 so that all in the Communion of the Saints might be celebrated together.
Thursday, November 01, 2007
THE FUTURE
Today I was obsessed with the "future". I don't know why but maybe the realization that 2007 is almost at an end worries me. I think that the thought that Ruther and I will still have to endure more separation in 2008 depresses me to no end, angers me to the bone and saddens me to the deepest core of my heart. Right now, the "future" simply sucks so just allow me to share some quotes about it...
We should all be concerned about the future because we will have to spend the rest of our lives there. ~Charles F. Kettering
I know not what the future holds, but I know who holds the future. ~Author Unknown
The future is called "perhaps," which is the only possible thing to call the future. And the only important thing is not to allow that to scare you. ~Tennessee Williams, Orpheus Descending, 1957
I believe the future is only the past again, entered through another gate. ~Arthur Wing Pinero, The Second Mrs. Tanqueray, 1893
The future, according to some scientists, will be exactly like the past, only far more expensive. ~John Sladek
We should all be concerned about the future because we will have to spend the rest of our lives there. ~Charles F. Kettering
I know not what the future holds, but I know who holds the future. ~Author Unknown
The future is called "perhaps," which is the only possible thing to call the future. And the only important thing is not to allow that to scare you. ~Tennessee Williams, Orpheus Descending, 1957
I believe the future is only the past again, entered through another gate. ~Arthur Wing Pinero, The Second Mrs. Tanqueray, 1893
The future, according to some scientists, will be exactly like the past, only far more expensive. ~John Sladek
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!
Happy Halloween guys! Hope you had fun today! =D
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The boys and I spent some hours malling today. Since I needed to get a few more things for the room, we decided to spend some time going around the mall. When we arrived there, we saw a lot of kids dressed in all sorts of costumes for the mall-wide trick or treat event. The kids were sooo cute! Of course, I would have wanted the boys to experience trick or treating but it would just be too difficult for me without a companion (of course I'll have to take all the photos!) and also, I still have tons of work to do here at home. So yeah, we'll just have our trick or treat next time.
Anyway, I got some hangers for the room and also our electric fan. We did have one before but the boys are using that now. We also got some canned goods, chocolates (of course!) and socks for Ruther. Oh yeah, I got him a shirt too. Hope he'll like that when he sees it. Anyway, it was okay. We didn't want to stay too long at the mall because of the crowd so we left at around 1230pm. The boys were fine with that. Besides, I'm sure once their dad is home, we'll have more time to go out and have fun. =D
.....
The boys and I spent some hours malling today. Since I needed to get a few more things for the room, we decided to spend some time going around the mall. When we arrived there, we saw a lot of kids dressed in all sorts of costumes for the mall-wide trick or treat event. The kids were sooo cute! Of course, I would have wanted the boys to experience trick or treating but it would just be too difficult for me without a companion (of course I'll have to take all the photos!) and also, I still have tons of work to do here at home. So yeah, we'll just have our trick or treat next time.
Anyway, I got some hangers for the room and also our electric fan. We did have one before but the boys are using that now. We also got some canned goods, chocolates (of course!) and socks for Ruther. Oh yeah, I got him a shirt too. Hope he'll like that when he sees it. Anyway, it was okay. We didn't want to stay too long at the mall because of the crowd so we left at around 1230pm. The boys were fine with that. Besides, I'm sure once their dad is home, we'll have more time to go out and have fun. =D
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