Now that the weather has become so warm, I notice a lot of mosquitoes everywhere in the house: in the kitchen, in the garage, the living room, the boys' room, our bedroom, even the bathroom. Seeing all those mosquitoes really freaked me out because I'm allergic to mosquito bites. One time, I woke up at around 4 in the morning to discover that I had SIX bites!! Two on my arm, three on my leg and one on my back. I guess to the mosquitoes I was like an eat-all-you-can buffet while I was in deep sleep. I checked the boys that morning and they did not have any bites at all! After that incident, I waged my war against those irritating blood-suckers. I prepared my water-based spray, filled the bottle and one night when everyone was asleep and before I went to bed, I sprayed all over the house. The next morning, I was delighted to see a lot of casualties on the bathroom floor. Haha! Eighty down, 5 thousand to go.
It's a bit difficult spraying in the bedroom because the boys always pop in every so often so I try to remember to spray before we head out for the mall. During the day, we open our windows and doors (to take advantage of any cool breeze there might be) and sometimes a mosquito flies in, much to my annoyance and aggravation. And when I can't kill or shoo that pesky mosquito away, it bothers me all through the night. If it weren't so hot in the evenings, I would sleep with a blanket just so I wouldn't have to think and worry about these little vampires sipping my blood (and causing me a lot of itchy discomfort). Not only that, I worry about dengue as well so this is really a battle that I intend to win. I also keep track of any enemy basecamps and make sure there are no stagnant water nearby where they can recon and multiply. It's not easy going through a covert operation to shoot them down but so far, I'm unscathed in this war. Anyway, I have to replenish my ammunition. Still have a lot of enemies to bring down. Hopefully, they will learn to stay away from me and my spray bottle before all hell breaks lose.
=D
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
EARTH HOUR
So, did any of you get to observe Earth Hour? We did. I almost forgot about it because I usually talk to Ruther at around 8 in the evening. We had some communication problems with Skype so I went to Russell's room for some help and I realized that the lights were off and I suddenly remembered Earth Hour. So I turned off the lights in our room and talked to Ruther in the dark (just called him through my cellphone because the internet connection was terrible). Nikki was a bit scared when he saw the house in darkness so we turned on one light in the living room to make him less worried. Anyway, it was nice taking part in this. I mean, it's really worrisome what's happening to the world right now and environmental awareness (like Earth Hour) really helps. When I read about the participation of a lot of countries in this event, it felt really wonderful that I was a part of it and I helped in my own little way. I'm already looking forward to next year's Earth Hour. Hopefully, people will become more aware about our dying earth and do whatever it takes to protect and heal it.
TOMATOES
Took this photo in Baguio. It was my first time to see this kind of tomatoes so I couldn't help taking a photo. =D
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMY!
Yesterday was my mom's birthday. She's 57 years old (shhh! don't tell her I said so). She's really very particular about revealing her age. I suppose that's because she's the eldest child and perhaps feels like everyone else is younger than her. I also think it's because as she draws near her 60th birthday it really makes you think about your mortality. And my mom can be so paranoid (I know because I think I got that trait from her - haha!)
My mom is really great. A bit overprotective when we were growing up, but I understand her reasons. Because of her, I learned ballet, piano, singing, baking and drawing/painting. Of course, I'm not an expert on those things but I still appreciate the exposure. Because of those lessons and learning the theories, I am now a bit more confident in teaching Nikki and Ethan music and arts. I mean, at least I don't feel like I don't know anything about those things. Another thing I learned from my mom is putting family first. I really appreciate the closeness we had and have until now and I hope that I can also do the same with my family. Despite living in different cities, we still keep in touch often and I really like that.
I guess my mom's greatest influence on me would be reading. Because of her, I really learned to appreciate books and to love reading. Because of her influence, I was able to stretch my imagination in many different ways and was able to create a world of my own through books. I also hope to influence my boys as well and make them interested in reading. I hope to one day, fill the house with so many books that would spark their interest in so many things. Well, hopefully, that's not too far-fetched.
There was a time when, after spending a year in college and going back home to Zamboanga for the summer, I realized that my mom looked older than when I left her the previous year. And at that moment, I got scared because it was like a reality check that my parents will get old whether I notice it or not. And really, as much as losing them scares me, I know that our time on earth is limited and we just have to make the most of our time with our loved ones. Which is why, whenever my mom comes over for a visit, I really really appreciate the time we have together. Our recent trip to Baguio was one of the nicest vacations we've had and I hope that we would still have a lot of those in the coming years.
My mom is not perfect but she's been a wonderful mom to my sibling and me and I thank God for blessing me with someone who takes such good care of her family. Happy birthday Mommy! I love you! =D
My mom is really great. A bit overprotective when we were growing up, but I understand her reasons. Because of her, I learned ballet, piano, singing, baking and drawing/painting. Of course, I'm not an expert on those things but I still appreciate the exposure. Because of those lessons and learning the theories, I am now a bit more confident in teaching Nikki and Ethan music and arts. I mean, at least I don't feel like I don't know anything about those things. Another thing I learned from my mom is putting family first. I really appreciate the closeness we had and have until now and I hope that I can also do the same with my family. Despite living in different cities, we still keep in touch often and I really like that.
I guess my mom's greatest influence on me would be reading. Because of her, I really learned to appreciate books and to love reading. Because of her influence, I was able to stretch my imagination in many different ways and was able to create a world of my own through books. I also hope to influence my boys as well and make them interested in reading. I hope to one day, fill the house with so many books that would spark their interest in so many things. Well, hopefully, that's not too far-fetched.
There was a time when, after spending a year in college and going back home to Zamboanga for the summer, I realized that my mom looked older than when I left her the previous year. And at that moment, I got scared because it was like a reality check that my parents will get old whether I notice it or not. And really, as much as losing them scares me, I know that our time on earth is limited and we just have to make the most of our time with our loved ones. Which is why, whenever my mom comes over for a visit, I really really appreciate the time we have together. Our recent trip to Baguio was one of the nicest vacations we've had and I hope that we would still have a lot of those in the coming years.
My mom is not perfect but she's been a wonderful mom to my sibling and me and I thank God for blessing me with someone who takes such good care of her family. Happy birthday Mommy! I love you! =D
Friday, March 28, 2008
PAKSIW NA ISDA
1 1/2 lbs bangus or white fish fillets, dressed
1/2 cup vinegar
1/4 cup water
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 inch ginger, crushed
2 pieces banana peppers
1/2 cup bitter melons (ampalaya)
1/2 cup eggplants, sliced
Cut fish into 4 slices.
Place fish in a teflon or porcelain coated skillet.
Add all other ingredients, except ampalaya and eggplant, cover and bring to a boil.
Let simmer about 10 minutes, turning fish once to cook evenly.
Transfer to a covered dish and store in the refrigerator to"age" for 2 days.
Reheat over moderate heat just until heated enough before serving.
Add ampalaya and eggplant during the last five minutes of cooking.
1/2 cup vinegar
1/4 cup water
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 inch ginger, crushed
2 pieces banana peppers
1/2 cup bitter melons (ampalaya)
1/2 cup eggplants, sliced
Cut fish into 4 slices.
Place fish in a teflon or porcelain coated skillet.
Add all other ingredients, except ampalaya and eggplant, cover and bring to a boil.
Let simmer about 10 minutes, turning fish once to cook evenly.
Transfer to a covered dish and store in the refrigerator to"age" for 2 days.
Reheat over moderate heat just until heated enough before serving.
Add ampalaya and eggplant during the last five minutes of cooking.
SUMMER HEAT
It's only March but it really feels like we're right smack in the middle of summer. Really, I can only wonder how it can get any hotter in the coming weeks. If anyone ever had doubts about global warming before, well, I don't think they have any now.
It's just been sooo intolerable that around 1pm, you just can't not use the AC. I mean, even if you have the fan on (full blast), it's just so hot that it doesn't do anything to make you feel comfortable. The boys aren't complaining as long as the fan is on, but I really don't want them to develop dry cough because of the hot weather.
Anyway, I am planning to get the boys an inflatable pool just so they could cool off during hot afternoons. The other day, we played with water guns and Ethan loved it a lot. It would be wonderful to have a sprinkler (I would even join them in this heat!) but I really don't want to waste water and Mama does not have a garden where the boys could use that. So I suppose, the pool will have to do.
Am just hoping that April and May will not be as terrible as I think it's going to be. I can already imagine our electric bill next month! Hopefully, it won't give me an aneurism or a heart attack.
I hope.
It's just been sooo intolerable that around 1pm, you just can't not use the AC. I mean, even if you have the fan on (full blast), it's just so hot that it doesn't do anything to make you feel comfortable. The boys aren't complaining as long as the fan is on, but I really don't want them to develop dry cough because of the hot weather.
Anyway, I am planning to get the boys an inflatable pool just so they could cool off during hot afternoons. The other day, we played with water guns and Ethan loved it a lot. It would be wonderful to have a sprinkler (I would even join them in this heat!) but I really don't want to waste water and Mama does not have a garden where the boys could use that. So I suppose, the pool will have to do.
Am just hoping that April and May will not be as terrible as I think it's going to be. I can already imagine our electric bill next month! Hopefully, it won't give me an aneurism or a heart attack.
I hope.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
NIKKI MAKES PANCAKES
The other day Nikki made some pancakes. It was his first time. I bought some pancake mix and thought that it would be a great (learning) activity for him. He did have a lot of fun especially when I taught him how to flip the pancakes. Nikki is really a very cautious kid (he didn't even want to go near the stove) but with encouragement and support, he discovers that learning can be fun. Here are some photos of him:
Mixing them all together.
The ingredients.
Mixing them all together.
The serious cook. "I don't want to burn the pancakes, Mommy!"
Nikki with his grandma, who was first to taste his pancakes. (Of course, she found them delicious.) =D
RAISING CONFIDENT BOYS
I am currently reading a book by Elizabeth Hartley-Brewer titled Raising Confident Boys. I got this book at Booksale and I was hesitant to buy it at first because I had already picked a lot of books to purchase then but when I browsed through it, I liked what I saw. And after reading the first few pages (I read one tip every night before going to sleep), I thought that it was a very handy book. Not only will it help me deal with my boys' temperaments but it will also provide me with insight on how to be a more understanding and loving parent. I really liked the straight-to-the point tips that I decided to share them with Ruther. So, I email him a tip a day so that together, we would be able to develop our boys' self-esteem, be more sensitive to their needs and teach them self-discipline to help them achieve their goals in life.
Here are a couple of tips from the book:
1. Boys Need Love, Too
Boys often seek love in roundabout ways from parents and other adults close to them. When they are old enough to make sense of what it means to be male, they may decide this means feeling love but not being soft enough to show or want it.
It can be hard for a boy to accept that being boisterous, and sometimes difficult and destructive, works comfortably with also needing to lose oneself in the warmth and safety of a hug. This may even be harder for older boys, particularly if the arms are female. So boys often use more aggressive tactics to get the love they need than do girls, who have far less emotional distance to travel to claim their emotional birthright.
If he's just jumped on you from behind or given you a painful punch, this can mean that he needs your love, so it is better to respond affectionately than to lash out. Your goal should be to reduce the parental ties gradually without leaving him feeling emotionally stranded and abandoned.
*You can show love by being interested in his ideas, paying attention to and doing things with him, and understanding his feelings.
* Giving special tasks to certain boys who lack confidence can make them feel significant, noticed, reliable and trustworthy.
2. Show that you understand him
All children find being misunderstood extremely frustrating. It starts as an irritation, but when the mistake persists, a boy will begin to question whether his version of himself is normal, reasonable and justified. When boys see their wishes as continuously ignored or misinterpreted, they feel not only humiliated but also increasingly resentful, angry and, most damaging, self-doubting.
You can show understanding by anticipating his needs and - carefully - expressing his possible thoughts. You can say things such as "I guess you're feeling left out. Am I right?" This gives him room to disagree, and keeps you from coming across as infuriatingly all-knowing - and possibly wrong.
*Accept how he sees the world. He doesn't have to agree with you, nor you with him.
*Value his uniqueness. Tell him what you like about him.
*Look behind his behavior for possible causes and feelings. Let him know you understand.
*Remember his likes and dislikes.
Here are a couple of tips from the book:
1. Boys Need Love, Too
Boys often seek love in roundabout ways from parents and other adults close to them. When they are old enough to make sense of what it means to be male, they may decide this means feeling love but not being soft enough to show or want it.
It can be hard for a boy to accept that being boisterous, and sometimes difficult and destructive, works comfortably with also needing to lose oneself in the warmth and safety of a hug. This may even be harder for older boys, particularly if the arms are female. So boys often use more aggressive tactics to get the love they need than do girls, who have far less emotional distance to travel to claim their emotional birthright.
If he's just jumped on you from behind or given you a painful punch, this can mean that he needs your love, so it is better to respond affectionately than to lash out. Your goal should be to reduce the parental ties gradually without leaving him feeling emotionally stranded and abandoned.
*You can show love by being interested in his ideas, paying attention to and doing things with him, and understanding his feelings.
* Giving special tasks to certain boys who lack confidence can make them feel significant, noticed, reliable and trustworthy.
2. Show that you understand him
All children find being misunderstood extremely frustrating. It starts as an irritation, but when the mistake persists, a boy will begin to question whether his version of himself is normal, reasonable and justified. When boys see their wishes as continuously ignored or misinterpreted, they feel not only humiliated but also increasingly resentful, angry and, most damaging, self-doubting.
You can show understanding by anticipating his needs and - carefully - expressing his possible thoughts. You can say things such as "I guess you're feeling left out. Am I right?" This gives him room to disagree, and keeps you from coming across as infuriatingly all-knowing - and possibly wrong.
*Accept how he sees the world. He doesn't have to agree with you, nor you with him.
*Value his uniqueness. Tell him what you like about him.
*Look behind his behavior for possible causes and feelings. Let him know you understand.
*Remember his likes and dislikes.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
HAVEN'T BEEN BLOGGING MUCH
I'm sorry I haven't been blogging a lot these days. It's just that I've been caught up with so many things I hardly have the time to write. Like I mentioned in previous posts, I'm trying to finish my Child Psych by April and well, I've been studying as much as I possibly can in the middle of all my chores and homeschooling and other activities. This is really not a bother because it's really interesting but I want to be finished with it so I could get my certificate and then proceed to the next step (which I will mention later as I have to talk to Ruther about it again).
Anyway, what is taking most of my time now is researching a homeschooling method for Ethan. In case you didn't know, my boys have very different personalities. Nikki is doing all right with our eclectic method but it does not seem to suit Ethan at all because he's not the sit-down-and-study type. He's a sensory learner and loves to feel and touch things and learn from his environment and educational toys. He learns more through experience. He's what the books call "The Accidental Learner". You really cannot have a structured study time with him or you'll end up talking to yourself. Ethan is just not ready for formal lessons. And I really don't want to push him. But neither am I going to neglect his education. So I've been researching for the appropriate homeschooling philosophy for him and I discovered the Moore formula which I think will be quite helpful in my lessons for Ethan. Here's a summary of what it's about (from homescooldiner.com):
This is a Christian-based educational philosophy described in several books written by homeschooling pioneers Dr. Raymond and Dorothy Moore, including, "Better Late Than Early", "School Can Wait" and "Homegrown Kids". This Moore Formula homeschool curriculum includes a blend of study, work, and service. The studies should be practical, low-stress, and interest-based. The work should include doing chores, helping with the family business, and a child's own entrepreneurial activities - to build self-confidence and self-control. Daily service is recommended, such as helping at home and in the community, to help build character.
An important emphasis of this philosophy is that parents should wait until their children are *ready* to learn to read and write. No formal study is required until age 8 to 10 or 12 (though early readiness in children is not discouraged). The curriculum includes unit and project work. History is taught through the reading of biographies. Math and grammar are taught using "Math It" and "Winston Grammar". The Moore Formula method can be used independently, or by enrolling in "The Moore Academy".
I really like the part about delaying academics for some kids because readiness plays a big part in their learning and I see that it really applies to Ethan. Usually when we do lessons, he really learns and understands them when he's interested and when he's ready.
I'm still reading and researching more about this and I really really think that I am on the right track. Also, since the Moore formula is similar to unschooling, I think I will incorporate these two philosophies in teaching Ethan. I just really have to do a lot of research so I'll know what to do and so I am prepared. Anyway, if I could spare some time from all these research and studying, I'll be sure to blog again. =D
Anyway, what is taking most of my time now is researching a homeschooling method for Ethan. In case you didn't know, my boys have very different personalities. Nikki is doing all right with our eclectic method but it does not seem to suit Ethan at all because he's not the sit-down-and-study type. He's a sensory learner and loves to feel and touch things and learn from his environment and educational toys. He learns more through experience. He's what the books call "The Accidental Learner". You really cannot have a structured study time with him or you'll end up talking to yourself. Ethan is just not ready for formal lessons. And I really don't want to push him. But neither am I going to neglect his education. So I've been researching for the appropriate homeschooling philosophy for him and I discovered the Moore formula which I think will be quite helpful in my lessons for Ethan. Here's a summary of what it's about (from homescooldiner.com):
This is a Christian-based educational philosophy described in several books written by homeschooling pioneers Dr. Raymond and Dorothy Moore, including, "Better Late Than Early", "School Can Wait" and "Homegrown Kids". This Moore Formula homeschool curriculum includes a blend of study, work, and service. The studies should be practical, low-stress, and interest-based. The work should include doing chores, helping with the family business, and a child's own entrepreneurial activities - to build self-confidence and self-control. Daily service is recommended, such as helping at home and in the community, to help build character.
An important emphasis of this philosophy is that parents should wait until their children are *ready* to learn to read and write. No formal study is required until age 8 to 10 or 12 (though early readiness in children is not discouraged). The curriculum includes unit and project work. History is taught through the reading of biographies. Math and grammar are taught using "Math It" and "Winston Grammar". The Moore Formula method can be used independently, or by enrolling in "The Moore Academy".
I really like the part about delaying academics for some kids because readiness plays a big part in their learning and I see that it really applies to Ethan. Usually when we do lessons, he really learns and understands them when he's interested and when he's ready.
I'm still reading and researching more about this and I really really think that I am on the right track. Also, since the Moore formula is similar to unschooling, I think I will incorporate these two philosophies in teaching Ethan. I just really have to do a lot of research so I'll know what to do and so I am prepared. Anyway, if I could spare some time from all these research and studying, I'll be sure to blog again. =D
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
MANY THOUGHTS
Sometimes I find myself with a head full of thoughts that I have to stop, breathe and tell myself that if I continue to think that way I'll only work myself up and that's not a very good idea especially with Ruther not around (he's my voice of reason) to calm me down. It's 4am right now and when I should be in bed sleeping and dreaming happy dreams, I am instead in front of the laptop doing some impromptu cleaning and dusting of my mind to clear away some of the jumbled mess for some organizational thought.
In the past, I used to worry about the littlest thing. Now, I only worry about the future (and okay, a few other things as well). I must have inherited this delightful little trait from my mother, who at present, suffers from mild anxiety attacks from time to time. It's really not the debilitating kind but she always brings her little pillbox with her wherever she goes, sort of like a security blanket.
I guess my biggest worries right now are: 1) how to be able to live together as a family in the (hopefully near) future (with no separations anymore), and 2) homeschooling (finding support, finding the time to research things, providing the necessary learning tools for the boys, being confident about this decision and pursuing it, etc.). I just really don't want to be 40 years old and still be living apart from Ruther. That would be simply depressing. Also, homeschooling 2 boys with very different learning styles is certainly not a walk in the park. You would think that it would be simpler to just teach Ethan what I teach Nikki, but NO. Ethan has to be of a different mold entirely just to spice things up a bit. Yay.
Anyway, I guess am only human to worry. As I told Ruther before, I would not worry about a person (which is more often than not, him) if I did not have affection and love for said person. Sometimes, my worrisome thoughts just come out of my head with no control from me whatsoever. I may be sitting in a jeepney and pop! I would think about where to get more educational toys for the boys. I could be walking to the grocery store and then suddenly think about money and budgetting woes. I could be frying something and my mind would jump to so many things (dangerous, I know!) I would sometimes wonder, now why did that pop into my mind right now? If you think that I'm making mountains out of molehills, Ruther would say that that would be an understatement.
Have you seen the movie Click? Wouldn't it be wonderful to have a preview of what your future would be like? Wouldn't it be swell to see how things are then so you could right some of the wrongs at present just to make sure that everything goes smoothly in the future? Wouldn't it be fantastic to catch a glimpse of how your family will be then (happy?, healthy?, together?, etc.)? I guess all we could do is just do our best right here and right now. But wait. How do we know that we are doing our best? How do we know that we still have much to offer, to give, to share to the people we love? How do we know that we are doing what we can right now to make this world a better place for our family/ies? Tell me. Doesn't that make you wonder?
I would not call my thoughts personal demons. I guess it just means that I want my life to be a bit more structured, a bit more planned out, a bit more secure. Like I want to be able to fix our calendar for next year. I want to be able to at least know what to write on it for the entire 2009. It would be nice to have a little bit of permanency. After all, I'm not getting any younger, right? Who's to say I'll still be here tomorrow.
Who doesn't want a happy ending? I suppose that's why I have so many thoughts in my head sometimes. I just want to (possibly) eliminate all those things right now that could well, make the future a little bit worrisome. But you know, even if I'm not sure how the ending of my story is going to be, despite all my crazy and worrisome thoughts, despite waking up at 4am to blog, despite all the uncertainties of the future, I do know that my happily ever after has already begun.
In the past, I used to worry about the littlest thing. Now, I only worry about the future (and okay, a few other things as well). I must have inherited this delightful little trait from my mother, who at present, suffers from mild anxiety attacks from time to time. It's really not the debilitating kind but she always brings her little pillbox with her wherever she goes, sort of like a security blanket.
I guess my biggest worries right now are: 1) how to be able to live together as a family in the (hopefully near) future (with no separations anymore), and 2) homeschooling (finding support, finding the time to research things, providing the necessary learning tools for the boys, being confident about this decision and pursuing it, etc.). I just really don't want to be 40 years old and still be living apart from Ruther. That would be simply depressing. Also, homeschooling 2 boys with very different learning styles is certainly not a walk in the park. You would think that it would be simpler to just teach Ethan what I teach Nikki, but NO. Ethan has to be of a different mold entirely just to spice things up a bit. Yay.
Anyway, I guess am only human to worry. As I told Ruther before, I would not worry about a person (which is more often than not, him) if I did not have affection and love for said person. Sometimes, my worrisome thoughts just come out of my head with no control from me whatsoever. I may be sitting in a jeepney and pop! I would think about where to get more educational toys for the boys. I could be walking to the grocery store and then suddenly think about money and budgetting woes. I could be frying something and my mind would jump to so many things (dangerous, I know!) I would sometimes wonder, now why did that pop into my mind right now? If you think that I'm making mountains out of molehills, Ruther would say that that would be an understatement.
Have you seen the movie Click? Wouldn't it be wonderful to have a preview of what your future would be like? Wouldn't it be swell to see how things are then so you could right some of the wrongs at present just to make sure that everything goes smoothly in the future? Wouldn't it be fantastic to catch a glimpse of how your family will be then (happy?, healthy?, together?, etc.)? I guess all we could do is just do our best right here and right now. But wait. How do we know that we are doing our best? How do we know that we still have much to offer, to give, to share to the people we love? How do we know that we are doing what we can right now to make this world a better place for our family/ies? Tell me. Doesn't that make you wonder?
I would not call my thoughts personal demons. I guess it just means that I want my life to be a bit more structured, a bit more planned out, a bit more secure. Like I want to be able to fix our calendar for next year. I want to be able to at least know what to write on it for the entire 2009. It would be nice to have a little bit of permanency. After all, I'm not getting any younger, right? Who's to say I'll still be here tomorrow.
Who doesn't want a happy ending? I suppose that's why I have so many thoughts in my head sometimes. I just want to (possibly) eliminate all those things right now that could well, make the future a little bit worrisome. But you know, even if I'm not sure how the ending of my story is going to be, despite all my crazy and worrisome thoughts, despite waking up at 4am to blog, despite all the uncertainties of the future, I do know that my happily ever after has already begun.
Monday, March 24, 2008
PHOTOS AT SUN CITY
Nikki and his colorful floatie. He really loves the water which is why I think enrolling him in swim class this summer will be a good idea for him.
Ethan watches his Kuya Nikki slide. Weeeee!!
Ethan is a bit fearful of sliding but Nikki loves it as long as it's not too high.
Through the tunnel. Ethan loves the kiddie pools a lot but Nikki prefers the adult pools. I think Ethan likes watching the kids slide and make huge splashes.
Ethan watches his Kuya Nikki slide. Weeeee!!
Ethan is a bit fearful of sliding but Nikki loves it as long as it's not too high.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
FAMILY DAY AT SUN CITY
Today we went to Sun City in Calamba for another family day. Mama and Papa wanted to spend the day there because they know that Nikki really loves the place and is quite excited to go back. So we left at 8 this morning and the moment we arrived there, the boys changed into their trunks and just swam and played. It was terribly hot and there were a lot of people. I was worried at first because Nikki kept on going to the adult pool (was about chest-high) and even if he had his floatie and there were lifeguards nearby, I didn't want anything bad happening while I was at our table. But he eventually made some friends there and just wanted to play with them. So I tried to keep an eye on them as much as I could and gave him water from time to time. Ethan spent most of the time in the kiddie pools and was quite happy there. After lunch, I changed and then brought the boys to another adult pool. We just swam and played and enjoyed the water until Nikki could no longer open his eyes (this was around 130pm or so). So we got out of the water, showered, changed and in a few minutes, the boys were asleep. They did not nap long because it was a bit uncomfy, hot and noisy so Nikki woke up after 20 or so minutes. Then he asked us if we could go home already. I guess it was just too hot to continue swimming and really, the crowd doubled in size so the pools looked packed with people that it no longer looked fun. So we all agreed to leave then and by 4pm, we were back home. The boys are a bit sunburned but I'm sure they don't mind that because of all the fun they had. They did miss their dad though because the last time we were there Ruther was with us. Sad. =(
Friday, March 21, 2008
HOLY WEEK IN THE PHILS- GOOD FRIDAY
I know some may complain about this ritual we have here in the Philippines but it is still a part of our culture (accepted or not) and I wish to post it here... (WARNING! Some photos may make you squeamish...)
Body of Christ: Ritual Crucifixions in San Fernando
By Susi O'Neill
Christian religious festivals rule daily life in the Philippines, particularly in the countryside. San Fernando is a good example, just 40 miles from the city of Manila on Luzon island, this town is famous for being the site of the crucifixion ceremony that takes place on Good Friday each year. To some the event is a display of piety and to thank God for blessings; to others, they are gruesome displays of outdated religious fervour.
What Happens at San Fernando
As many as ten men
each year volunteer to be Jesus and are nailed to the cross with slender silvery spikes. Spectators act out the events of the three days that led up to Christ's crucifixion that shaped the structure of the whole Christian faith. If you're in Manila at this time, it's easy to get to San Fernando early in the morning of the Good Friday. Come prepared for gore and blood, as it is quite an intense and emotional experience. Like the Vegetarian Festival in Phuket, Thailand, where people do all sorts of painful things with sharpened knives and hooks (apparently painlessly slipping these sharp objects through cheeks, shoulder blades, and other sensitive areas) more than 1,000 participants in San Fernando beat themselves (flagellations) with sharpened chains that bring forth spurts of blood and exposed skin.
Similar Events
The island of Luzon is not the only place this practice occurs; on the island of Marinduque there is a custom called Moriones, where people perform similar acts of self-flagellation
in order to commemorate the Roman centurion who was apparently cured when a drop of Jesus' blood fell into his eye. Participants wear centurions clothes and repeat this every Easter for a whole night.The Catholic Church actually forbids such forms of extreme piety, but it can't stop those who want to show thanks to their God for a healed relative, or for a life saving cure for their child. There has even been talk of local officials bribing people to keep the show alive by pushing up the number of participants, realising the financial gains brought in by curious foreign tourists. This is, of course, denied by these government officials who say it's just another uniquely Filipino tradition.
The festival climaxes with the crucifixion, and several hours after being nailed to their crosses, the men are taken down. Though traveller's may not follow the strongly held religious beliefs of the Filipino people, attending the Easter festival in San Fernando gives a good indication of how deep Christianity runs in this isolated converted country.
http://www.pilotguides.com/destination_guide/asia/philippines/san_fernando.php
Body of Christ: Ritual Crucifixions in San Fernando
By Susi O'Neill
Christian religious festivals rule daily life in the Philippines, particularly in the countryside. San Fernando is a good example, just 40 miles from the city of Manila on Luzon island, this town is famous for being the site of the crucifixion ceremony that takes place on Good Friday each year. To some the event is a display of piety and to thank God for blessings; to others, they are gruesome displays of outdated religious fervour.
What Happens at San Fernando
As many as ten men
each year volunteer to be Jesus and are nailed to the cross with slender silvery spikes. Spectators act out the events of the three days that led up to Christ's crucifixion that shaped the structure of the whole Christian faith. If you're in Manila at this time, it's easy to get to San Fernando early in the morning of the Good Friday. Come prepared for gore and blood, as it is quite an intense and emotional experience. Like the Vegetarian Festival in Phuket, Thailand, where people do all sorts of painful things with sharpened knives and hooks (apparently painlessly slipping these sharp objects through cheeks, shoulder blades, and other sensitive areas) more than 1,000 participants in San Fernando beat themselves (flagellations) with sharpened chains that bring forth spurts of blood and exposed skin.Similar Events
The island of Luzon is not the only place this practice occurs; on the island of Marinduque there is a custom called Moriones, where people perform similar acts of self-flagellation
in order to commemorate the Roman centurion who was apparently cured when a drop of Jesus' blood fell into his eye. Participants wear centurions clothes and repeat this every Easter for a whole night.The Catholic Church actually forbids such forms of extreme piety, but it can't stop those who want to show thanks to their God for a healed relative, or for a life saving cure for their child. There has even been talk of local officials bribing people to keep the show alive by pushing up the number of participants, realising the financial gains brought in by curious foreign tourists. This is, of course, denied by these government officials who say it's just another uniquely Filipino tradition.The festival climaxes with the crucifixion, and several hours after being nailed to their crosses, the men are taken down. Though traveller's may not follow the strongly held religious beliefs of the Filipino people, attending the Easter festival in San Fernando gives a good indication of how deep Christianity runs in this isolated converted country.
http://www.pilotguides.com/destination_guide/asia/philippines/san_fernando.php
Thursday, March 20, 2008
HOT!
It's just so unbelievably hot today! The boys are napping right now and I had no choice but to turn the AC on just to keep the room comfy. I tried to nap as well but after 20 minutes, I woke up with fine sweat and I couldn't go back to sleep anymore because I was no longer comfortable. Summer in Manila is usually this hot. In the provinces though, you could always depend on a cooling breeze to drown the humidity a bit and make summer a bit more pleasant. Just thinking about 2 more months of this is really bothersome. I just hope the boys won't get sick in this weather. Sigh. Sorry for the griping. It's just too hot to do anything else at the moment...
.....
Ruther has no work today! Yay! I guess it's that holiday where they celebrate Vernal Equinox or Shunbun no hi. I think it's nice that he has a day off from work this week especially since it's Holy Week (they don't have Holy Week in Japan). Anyway, more on the holiday from Wikipedia:
The vernal equinox is a national holiday for the admiration of nature and the love of living things. Around this time, various Buddhist sects celebrate the spring higan. Many people visit the graves of their ancestors, washing the tombstone, tidying up the site, and offering flowers. The first celebration in Japan took place in 806.
.....
Ruther has no work today! Yay! I guess it's that holiday where they celebrate Vernal Equinox or Shunbun no hi. I think it's nice that he has a day off from work this week especially since it's Holy Week (they don't have Holy Week in Japan). Anyway, more on the holiday from Wikipedia:
The vernal equinox is a national holiday for the admiration of nature and the love of living things. Around this time, various Buddhist sects celebrate the spring higan. Many people visit the graves of their ancestors, washing the tombstone, tidying up the site, and offering flowers. The first celebration in Japan took place in 806.
HOLY WEEK IN THE PHILS. - THE SINAKULO
The Sinakulo: Past and Present
Passion plays that flourish today in the urban and rural areas project this conflict. The still dominant, traditional sinakulo pictures Christ as a model of meekness and masochism, a lamb accepting death in obedience to authority. In contrast, the new sinakulo spotlights a Christ of reason and resolve, a lion who leads the downtrodden against all oppressors.
The traditional sinakulo is a Lenten play, usually in verse, which narrates a long sequence of episodes from the Old and the New Testaments, with special emphasis on the life, sufferings and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Certain conventions of marching, chanting and magic are usually followed.
Sinakulo scenes are presented on a proscenium-type stage of bamboo-and-wood or cement-and-steel; under light bulbs that cast an unyielding light instead of creating a mood and against painted cloth or paper backdrops, called telon. It takes at least eight nights - from Palm Sunday to Easter - to present the play.
In the cities, the sinakulo ispresented in all kinds of venues - on a traditional stage, on the streets, in a chapel, in a large room. Comedy, courtship, and special effects are popular elements in a sinakulo.
Because of the imperatives of urban life, most modern sinakulos run for only one or two hours. They can also be presented in all kinds of venues: on the traditional stage, on the streets, in a chapel, in a large room, or even in an open-air strike area.
If the traditional sinakulo drew life from the feudal, agricultural order, the modern passion play responds to a very definite need - the need to inform students, professionals, workers about the problems created by unresolved contradictions in Philippine society.
Source: http://www.filipinoheritage.com/religious/sinakulo.htm
Passion plays that flourish today in the urban and rural areas project this conflict. The still dominant, traditional sinakulo pictures Christ as a model of meekness and masochism, a lamb accepting death in obedience to authority. In contrast, the new sinakulo spotlights a Christ of reason and resolve, a lion who leads the downtrodden against all oppressors.
The traditional sinakulo is a Lenten play, usually in verse, which narrates a long sequence of episodes from the Old and the New Testaments, with special emphasis on the life, sufferings and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Certain conventions of marching, chanting and magic are usually followed.
Sinakulo scenes are presented on a proscenium-type stage of bamboo-and-wood or cement-and-steel; under light bulbs that cast an unyielding light instead of creating a mood and against painted cloth or paper backdrops, called telon. It takes at least eight nights - from Palm Sunday to Easter - to present the play.
In the cities, the sinakulo ispresented in all kinds of venues - on a traditional stage, on the streets, in a chapel, in a large room. Comedy, courtship, and special effects are popular elements in a sinakulo.
Because of the imperatives of urban life, most modern sinakulos run for only one or two hours. They can also be presented in all kinds of venues: on the traditional stage, on the streets, in a chapel, in a large room, or even in an open-air strike area.
If the traditional sinakulo drew life from the feudal, agricultural order, the modern passion play responds to a very definite need - the need to inform students, professionals, workers about the problems created by unresolved contradictions in Philippine society.
Source: http://www.filipinoheritage.com/religious/sinakulo.htm
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
HOLY WEEK IN THE PHIL. - PALM SUNDAY
by Elmer Nocheseda
Palm Sunday in the Philippines is most dramatic. To commemorate the entry 
of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, Filipino Catholics bring their palaspas or decorated palm fronds to church to be blessed by the priests. It is always a sight to behold when young fresh coconut leaves called ibus are transformed into intricate forms and shapes. Children hold them liked priced possessions. It is one great spectacle to see the brimming Sunday congregation eagerly wave their palms as the priest passes by to bless them. The event is simply joyful.
of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, Filipino Catholics bring their palaspas or decorated palm fronds to church to be blessed by the priests. It is always a sight to behold when young fresh coconut leaves called ibus are transformed into intricate forms and shapes. Children hold them liked priced possessions. It is one great spectacle to see the brimming Sunday congregation eagerly wave their palms as the priest passes by to bless them. The event is simply joyful. Domingo de Ramos or Palm Sunday is one of the most photographed events in the Philippines. Palaspas, which is the most intricate, provides an exciting opening act for the drama of Semana Santa. The sight and smell of fresh palm fronds herald Holy Week in the Philippines. More than this characteristic religiosity, the palaspas showcases the Pinoy’s inherent artistry and creativity. His dexterity is amazing, as to how he could transform the fresh fronds of coconut or buri palms into plaited and decorative patterns and empower it with new meaning. His propensity for bright colors and profuse embellishment is put into maximum use as the palaspas is decorated with crepe paper flowers and banderitas. But no matter how intricate the palaspas is, it has basically just two parts: a decorative handle and the decorated fronds. The decorative handle may be heart-shaped or woven like a mat or folded into overlapping bows. On the other hand, the fronds are from which hang the woven stars, grasshoppers, and other figures from palm leaves or other tiny paper flags. The fronds are cut and woven to enhance various textures and designs. The fronds may be cut or folded or may be plaited to form zigzag patterns called kidlat (lighting ), espada (sword), bola (ball), ibon (bird), hipon (shrimp), and other designs similar to those found in Bali Indonesia. The galilea, an elevated platform decorated with palm leaves and flowers, is built in the church patio for the choir who will sing the chants of the day. Tuklong or temporary altars decorated with palaspas are where the little angles sing their Hosannas at the top of their voices. Once blessed by the passing priest, the palaspas acquires potency that even the Church has no official stand whether to accept, denounce or ignore this folk belief. The blessed palaspas becomes a fixture on top of the doors and windowsills to ward off any evil that would ever pass the household. Even the finest houses in Forbes Park or the humblest barong-barong in Tondo will have the blessed dried palaspas for a year.
SUMMER
It's definitely summertime here. Not only has it been warm these past couple of days but it's been quite humid as well. Yup, flipflops, perspiration and sunblock are here to stay. Well, at least until May, that is.
I think I better buy the boys another inflatable pool as a way to keep them cool from the heat. The one they have (or should I say, had) has several holes in it so I guess it's no good except maybe for their colored balls. Anyway, I will have to check those pools out the next time I go to the mall.
.....
Holy Week is finally here. No, we're not vacationing anywhere. It's really weird but in Zamboanga, when it's Holy Week (called Semana Santa here), we don't usually traipse around the country. For my family, it's considered almost sinful. During Holy Week we usually do the Bisita Iglesia (church visits), and the Way of the Cross, and prayers and meditation and of course, fasting and abstinence. Starting from Holy Thursday, loud music and celebration is prohibited. My siblings and I would feel really guilty when we would watch tv and laugh loudly and be shushed by our parents. In Manila, Holy Week for most usually means vacation time. A month or so before Holy Week, you'd see ads in the paper about promo tours for families and individuals who would want to take advantage of the long weekend. It's really their choice of course, but it kind of bothers me a bit when people put so little meaning in the Lenten season. Anyway, those are my issues, so I'll shut up now.
Anyway, I think it's going to be a quiet Holy Week for me and my boys. We'll just be here, eagerly awaiting Easter Sunday.
I think I better buy the boys another inflatable pool as a way to keep them cool from the heat. The one they have (or should I say, had) has several holes in it so I guess it's no good except maybe for their colored balls. Anyway, I will have to check those pools out the next time I go to the mall.
.....
Holy Week is finally here. No, we're not vacationing anywhere. It's really weird but in Zamboanga, when it's Holy Week (called Semana Santa here), we don't usually traipse around the country. For my family, it's considered almost sinful. During Holy Week we usually do the Bisita Iglesia (church visits), and the Way of the Cross, and prayers and meditation and of course, fasting and abstinence. Starting from Holy Thursday, loud music and celebration is prohibited. My siblings and I would feel really guilty when we would watch tv and laugh loudly and be shushed by our parents. In Manila, Holy Week for most usually means vacation time. A month or so before Holy Week, you'd see ads in the paper about promo tours for families and individuals who would want to take advantage of the long weekend. It's really their choice of course, but it kind of bothers me a bit when people put so little meaning in the Lenten season. Anyway, those are my issues, so I'll shut up now.
Anyway, I think it's going to be a quiet Holy Week for me and my boys. We'll just be here, eagerly awaiting Easter Sunday.
Monday, March 17, 2008
BAGUIO DAY 3
At the Butterfly Sanctuary. Nikki and his butterfly friends. He really wanted to hold those butterflies and I told him to be careful not to hurt them.
Ethan was hesitant to touch the butterfly so I carried him and told him we would put only one on his sleeve. He was okay with that and after a while, he was giggling away. =D
Nikki and the Statue of Liberty at Camp John Hay
Peek-a-boo! Playing with the pine trees.
After the morning stroll, we went to SM City Baguio for some yummy halo-halo and mais con hielo. Of course, the boys had to play in the inflatable slide. =D
SAVE MOTHER EARTH
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080317-125163/Join-worldwide-lights-out-Filipinos-urged
Join worldwide lights-out, Filipinos urged
By Jocelyn Uy
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 06:14:00 03/17/2008
MANILA, Philippines—Save the Earth. Turn off your lights for a full hour on March 29.
The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)-Philippines is encouraging every Filipino household to switch off their lights and electrical gadgets when the “Earth Hour” strikes at 8 p.m. on the 29th as a way of joining global efforts to address climate change.
To manifest the country’s participation in the global movement, a portion of well-lit Roxas Boulevard in Pasay City will be plunged into darkness simultaneously with Sydney, Toronto, Chicago, Copenhagen and 28 other cities across the world, said the environmental group.
“Earth Hour is about awareness-raising and empowering people to make a difference, while aiming for a 5-percent reduction in power usage,” said Gregg Yan, WWF-Philippines information and communication officer.
The global movement was first launched in Australia on March 31, 2007, moving 2.2 million people and 2,100 business establishments in Sydney to shut off all the lights for one hour.
Even Sydney’s famous landmarks such as the Harbor Bridge and Opera House descended into darkness.
Yan said the collective effort reduced the city’s energy consumption by 10.2 percent, which had the equivalent effect of taking 48,000 cars off the road for an hour.
Citing the Filipino’s distinctive bayanihan (cooperative) spirit, the group was hopeful that the country would accomplish the same feat. It warned that the country’s 7,107 islands were exposed to rising sea levels and unpredictable weather patterns brought about by climate change.
“Throughout the Philippines, the idea is snowballing—with e-mails circulating and promulgating the concept to as far as Tawi-Tawi,” Yan said.
Meanwhile, Bernarditas Muller, a senior negotiator of the Philippine government on climate change, called on national leaders to train their attention to drawing up adaptation measures in relation to climate change.
Muller, in a dialogue with the media on Thursday, said the government must not concentrate on efforts to mitigate climate change because “it is already here.”
“We can no longer do anything to stop it because it is already happening,” she said.
Muller suggested that the government instead work for an efficient public transport system if it wants Filipinos to cut back on their use of cars to lessen greenhouse gas emissions.
She also noted that since the Philippines is surrounded by water, the government should seriously consider the zoning of flood-prone and coastal areas.
Join worldwide lights-out, Filipinos urged
By Jocelyn Uy
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 06:14:00 03/17/2008
MANILA, Philippines—Save the Earth. Turn off your lights for a full hour on March 29.
The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)-Philippines is encouraging every Filipino household to switch off their lights and electrical gadgets when the “Earth Hour” strikes at 8 p.m. on the 29th as a way of joining global efforts to address climate change.
To manifest the country’s participation in the global movement, a portion of well-lit Roxas Boulevard in Pasay City will be plunged into darkness simultaneously with Sydney, Toronto, Chicago, Copenhagen and 28 other cities across the world, said the environmental group.
“Earth Hour is about awareness-raising and empowering people to make a difference, while aiming for a 5-percent reduction in power usage,” said Gregg Yan, WWF-Philippines information and communication officer.
The global movement was first launched in Australia on March 31, 2007, moving 2.2 million people and 2,100 business establishments in Sydney to shut off all the lights for one hour.
Even Sydney’s famous landmarks such as the Harbor Bridge and Opera House descended into darkness.
Yan said the collective effort reduced the city’s energy consumption by 10.2 percent, which had the equivalent effect of taking 48,000 cars off the road for an hour.
Citing the Filipino’s distinctive bayanihan (cooperative) spirit, the group was hopeful that the country would accomplish the same feat. It warned that the country’s 7,107 islands were exposed to rising sea levels and unpredictable weather patterns brought about by climate change.
“Throughout the Philippines, the idea is snowballing—with e-mails circulating and promulgating the concept to as far as Tawi-Tawi,” Yan said.
Meanwhile, Bernarditas Muller, a senior negotiator of the Philippine government on climate change, called on national leaders to train their attention to drawing up adaptation measures in relation to climate change.
Muller, in a dialogue with the media on Thursday, said the government must not concentrate on efforts to mitigate climate change because “it is already here.”
“We can no longer do anything to stop it because it is already happening,” she said.
Muller suggested that the government instead work for an efficient public transport system if it wants Filipinos to cut back on their use of cars to lessen greenhouse gas emissions.
She also noted that since the Philippines is surrounded by water, the government should seriously consider the zoning of flood-prone and coastal areas.
SUMMER HEAT
We've been back in Manila for only 2 days and suddenly it's like summer just arrived out of nowhere. Where have all the cool nights gone?
Yesterday was especially warm. I had to make sure the boys were comfy lest they get sick from this humid weather. I had to go out in the afternoon while the boys took their nap because I had to buy Ethan's milk and really, the heat was just penetrating. Good thing after a while it got cloudy so that was a relief. Come evening though, it suddenly rained. The weather can be so weird sometimes.
I don't know if today is a sign of hot days to come. I'm actually one not to mind summer weather and I could always think of ways to stay cool (mango shake is one!) but it can be pretty bothersome when the air from the fan blowing on your face is as hot as your breath. So yeah, hopefully, summer won't be as warm as I think it's going to be.
I said "hopefully".
Yesterday was especially warm. I had to make sure the boys were comfy lest they get sick from this humid weather. I had to go out in the afternoon while the boys took their nap because I had to buy Ethan's milk and really, the heat was just penetrating. Good thing after a while it got cloudy so that was a relief. Come evening though, it suddenly rained. The weather can be so weird sometimes.
I don't know if today is a sign of hot days to come. I'm actually one not to mind summer weather and I could always think of ways to stay cool (mango shake is one!) but it can be pretty bothersome when the air from the fan blowing on your face is as hot as your breath. So yeah, hopefully, summer won't be as warm as I think it's going to be.
I said "hopefully".
BAGUIO DAY 2
At Mines View Park. We've been here last year but dad had to see it, even for just a while. From the observation deck of the park a breathtaking panoramic view of Benguet's gold and copper mines and the surrounding mountains unfolds before you. (cityofpines.com)
The majestic and palatial Mansion House was built in 1908 as the official summer residence for the U.S. Governors-Generals. It was badly damaged during the Second World War and was rebuilt in 1947. Since then, it has served as the holiday home and working office for each President of the Philippines during his or her visits to Baguio. (Wikipedia) We could only take a photo from far away because tourists are no longer allowed near the mansion. Too bad.
The gates of the Mansion. The elaborate main gate, made of ornate ironwork, is said to be a replica of one of the main gates at Buckingham Palace, London. (Wikipedia)
Wright Park, which is located at the eastern part of the city and fronting the main gate of the Mansion, is one of the many scenic parks in Baguio City. Its main features are a shallow elongated rectangular body of water known as the "Pool of Pines" and the park circle which is on one end of the park. (cityofpines.com) By this time, the sky was really overcast and it started to drizzle.
And then the skies opened and the rain fell. We tried to wait for it to stop but it seemed like it didn't want to let up so we decided to call it a day and hailed a taxi so we could get out of the rain.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
MANNY PACQUIAO WINS - MABUHAY!
http://msn.foxsports.com/boxing/story/7918842/Pacquiao-Marquez-an-electric-battle-to-the-end
Pacquiao-Marquez an electric battle to the end
by SAMMY ROZENBERG, BoxingScene.com
We waited four long years and it finally happened. The rematch was well worth the wait. In 2004, Juan Manuel Marquez survived three knockdowns in the first-round to box his way to a draw with Manny Pacquiao.
On Saturday at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Pacquiao (47-3, 35 KOs) won a close split decision over Marquez (48-5, 35 KOs) to win the WBC super featherweight title. The scores were 115-112 Marquez, 115-112 Pacquiao and 114-113 for Pacquiao.
The rematch lived up to the hype and had just as much drama as the first meeting. Marquez came out boxing for the first two rounds and stunned Pacquiao at the end of the second.
In the third, Pacquiao unloaded with a hard left that would send Marquez down. At that point the war began, with both combatants trading some heavy leather as Pacquiao went for the finish. The drama continued to unravel for the next few rounds as Marquez obliged Pacquiao by standing his ground to trade power punches.
A clash of heads in the seventh opened up a cut outside the right eye of Marquez. The tide would change once again in the eighth, as an inside right hand opened up a bad cut on the right eyelid of Pacquiao. The cut bothered Pacquiao and impaired his vision. Marquez would take advantage by unloading with combinations and right hands to the head to once again shift the momentum of the fight. Both were battered, bleeding and bruised by the 10th.
The fight was on the table going into the 12th and final round. Marquez began to connect with numerous combinations on a tired Pacquiao, who was unable return fire with his counters. The crowd stood up as they continued to trade in the closing moments of the fight. At the end of the day, the knockdown in the third won the fight for Pacquiao. Marquez feels he was robbed of a win.
"I won the fight. It was the wrong decision. One knockdown is not an entire fight," Marquez said.
According to the plan for the last few months, Pacquiao is set to fight WBC lightweight champion David Diaz, who won a non-title bout on the undercard, this summer. Diaz is not going to be a pushover for Pacquiao. He's a big, strong lightweight. He lacks one-punch knockout power, but he uses his big frame to physically impose his will on opponents.
He possesses a sneaky defense and picks off a lot of the punches that opponents throw in his direction. He showed in his winning effort with Jose Armando Santa Cruz that he's able to change the direction of a fight with a single punch.
The year-end opponent, should Pacquiao get by Diaz, is up in the air. One mega-name that everyone involved has mentioned is Ricky Hatton. HBO, Top Rank and Hatton's handlers want the fight.
A fight with Hatton would require another jump in weight to the junior-welterweight limit of 140 pounds. Hatton would also need to beat his comeback opponent on May 24, Juan Lazcano. There are many in the sport who feel that Hatton, although he's only five pounds north, is too big and too strong for Pacquiao, who weighed 106 pounds for his ring debut in 1995.
Manny Pacquiao could be eyeing Ricky Hatton after Pacquiao's next fight. (Isaac Brekken / Associated Press)
Another name mentioned has been newly crowned WBO/IBF/WBA lightweight champ Nate Campbell. If Pacquiao beats Diaz, a bout with Campbell would be for the undisputed lightweight title. If Campbell shows up in the same fashion he did in his big upset win over Juan Diaz last weekend in Cancun, Pacquiao will have his hands full.
With Pacquiao moving up in weight, Marquez would become the top fighter in the super featherweight division. He will probably find himself in a fight for the vacant WBC title that Pacquiao will leave behind.
Pacquiao-Marquez an electric battle to the end
by SAMMY ROZENBERG, BoxingScene.com
We waited four long years and it finally happened. The rematch was well worth the wait. In 2004, Juan Manuel Marquez survived three knockdowns in the first-round to box his way to a draw with Manny Pacquiao.
On Saturday at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Pacquiao (47-3, 35 KOs) won a close split decision over Marquez (48-5, 35 KOs) to win the WBC super featherweight title. The scores were 115-112 Marquez, 115-112 Pacquiao and 114-113 for Pacquiao.
The rematch lived up to the hype and had just as much drama as the first meeting. Marquez came out boxing for the first two rounds and stunned Pacquiao at the end of the second.
In the third, Pacquiao unloaded with a hard left that would send Marquez down. At that point the war began, with both combatants trading some heavy leather as Pacquiao went for the finish. The drama continued to unravel for the next few rounds as Marquez obliged Pacquiao by standing his ground to trade power punches.
A clash of heads in the seventh opened up a cut outside the right eye of Marquez. The tide would change once again in the eighth, as an inside right hand opened up a bad cut on the right eyelid of Pacquiao. The cut bothered Pacquiao and impaired his vision. Marquez would take advantage by unloading with combinations and right hands to the head to once again shift the momentum of the fight. Both were battered, bleeding and bruised by the 10th.
The fight was on the table going into the 12th and final round. Marquez began to connect with numerous combinations on a tired Pacquiao, who was unable return fire with his counters. The crowd stood up as they continued to trade in the closing moments of the fight. At the end of the day, the knockdown in the third won the fight for Pacquiao. Marquez feels he was robbed of a win.
"I won the fight. It was the wrong decision. One knockdown is not an entire fight," Marquez said.
According to the plan for the last few months, Pacquiao is set to fight WBC lightweight champion David Diaz, who won a non-title bout on the undercard, this summer. Diaz is not going to be a pushover for Pacquiao. He's a big, strong lightweight. He lacks one-punch knockout power, but he uses his big frame to physically impose his will on opponents.
He possesses a sneaky defense and picks off a lot of the punches that opponents throw in his direction. He showed in his winning effort with Jose Armando Santa Cruz that he's able to change the direction of a fight with a single punch.
The year-end opponent, should Pacquiao get by Diaz, is up in the air. One mega-name that everyone involved has mentioned is Ricky Hatton. HBO, Top Rank and Hatton's handlers want the fight.
A fight with Hatton would require another jump in weight to the junior-welterweight limit of 140 pounds. Hatton would also need to beat his comeback opponent on May 24, Juan Lazcano. There are many in the sport who feel that Hatton, although he's only five pounds north, is too big and too strong for Pacquiao, who weighed 106 pounds for his ring debut in 1995.
Manny Pacquiao could be eyeing Ricky Hatton after Pacquiao's next fight. (Isaac Brekken / Associated Press)
Another name mentioned has been newly crowned WBO/IBF/WBA lightweight champ Nate Campbell. If Pacquiao beats Diaz, a bout with Campbell would be for the undisputed lightweight title. If Campbell shows up in the same fashion he did in his big upset win over Juan Diaz last weekend in Cancun, Pacquiao will have his hands full.
With Pacquiao moving up in weight, Marquez would become the top fighter in the super featherweight division. He will probably find himself in a fight for the vacant WBC title that Pacquiao will leave behind.
BAGUIO DAY 1
In the bus with my boys. They were quite behaved during the trip and maybe because they lacked sleep, they slept during most of the 6-hour ride.
In our temporary Baguio home. I loved the coziness of the place. It was also so clean and well-maintained. There were 2 bedrooms, a toilet and bath, water dispenser, a ref, and a kitchen. It was very homey. They even provided us with cleaning solutions for the bathroom, dishwashing liquid, pots and pans and plates and utensils. We were fortunate to stay in this lovely place. It's located in Greenwater Village, which is relatively near the bus terminal, the mall and Camp John Hay (where dad had his tournament).
We arrived in Baguio at 10:30am and after unloading our things in our place, we headed for SM City Baguio to have lunch. It is of course, dad's first time there and he admired the architecture.
After the trip to the mall, we went to Baguio Cathedral to hear mass. The boys and I had to stay near the courtyard because the church was full and Ethan got restless because of all the people. (He's biting his nails in this photo! What a horrid habit!) =D
AM BACK - FINALLY!
Oh my gosh! It seems like forever since I last blogged!! It feels so good to be back. I tried to log in last Friday but I couldn't get through to Blogger. Must be something wrong with the connection or something. Anyway, it's just great to finally keep in touch with you again! =D
I have mixed feelings about our trip. As much as I would love to gush that it went wonderfully, it didn’t quite turn out that way. Firstly, there was my dad’s golf tournament. We had to work our days around his 3-day schedule. Since we originally planned to go to the places we haven’t seen last year, it would be terrible of us to go around without dad in tow. Then, there was the dampening rains. It just ruined our planned visits to places of interest and as much as I would love to prance and frolic in the rain, I just did not want my boys to catch a cold (or pneumonia for that matter). Also, there were those trips and schedules that just went awry. Like when we passed by Aguinaldo Shrine, we were shocked to see tall grasses and graffiti all around and over it and to find the museum nearby closed for the day (even if it was only 2pm and was a weekday). Also, we were supposed to go strawberry picking but wouldn't you know, La Trinidad needed all those strawberries for their festival? They are planning to make this huge strawberry shortcake or something. So, that didn’t work too well for us. On the plus side however, we did love the place where we stayed. It was a bit out of the way but was cozy and perfect for us. The people living there were so accommodating and friendly. I also enjoyed cooking for my parents which I very rarely do when I am in Zamboanga, not because I don’t want to but because mom usually has the whole week’s menu already planned out and marketed. Also, mom and dad loved the fruits and vegetables in Baguio. Mommy especially loved the seedless oranges and the lettuce and carrots. Daddy loved the marinated bangus and of course, the peanut brittle. We also got to have lunch at Rose Bowl. That’s the place we stayed years ago when my siblings and I were very little. So it was like a trip down memory lane for Daddy because he hasn’t been to Baguio for more than 20 years I think! Anyway, we had a really nice lunch there and Mommy loved the pancit. So yeah, I had fun with that little trip. We also got to see Tam-Awan Village, the Butterfly Sanctuary, the Orchidarium, the Easter Weaving Room and the Chinese Bell Church. At least those places, we all got to see for the first time. It’s just too bad that my sis wasn’t with us during this trip. I think Mom and Dad were mentioning something about going back to Baguio next year. =D
The boys did have some fun at least and I’m happy about that. They really enjoyed the cool air, the greenery, the new sights and bonding moments with their grandparents. They also had some fun at a huge inflatable slide at SM. Nikki, who is usually not that physically active, really tried his best to keep up with Ethan. My little boy, on the other hand, had the time of his life. Now, I am thinking of getting them a trampoline just to let them have some fun fitness here at home.
Anyway, I suppose the whole thing (good and bad) was a wonderful experience still. Despite it all I am still very grateful for the bonding time I had with my family. Hopefully, there will be more vacations like this - only better.
I have mixed feelings about our trip. As much as I would love to gush that it went wonderfully, it didn’t quite turn out that way. Firstly, there was my dad’s golf tournament. We had to work our days around his 3-day schedule. Since we originally planned to go to the places we haven’t seen last year, it would be terrible of us to go around without dad in tow. Then, there was the dampening rains. It just ruined our planned visits to places of interest and as much as I would love to prance and frolic in the rain, I just did not want my boys to catch a cold (or pneumonia for that matter). Also, there were those trips and schedules that just went awry. Like when we passed by Aguinaldo Shrine, we were shocked to see tall grasses and graffiti all around and over it and to find the museum nearby closed for the day (even if it was only 2pm and was a weekday). Also, we were supposed to go strawberry picking but wouldn't you know, La Trinidad needed all those strawberries for their festival? They are planning to make this huge strawberry shortcake or something. So, that didn’t work too well for us. On the plus side however, we did love the place where we stayed. It was a bit out of the way but was cozy and perfect for us. The people living there were so accommodating and friendly. I also enjoyed cooking for my parents which I very rarely do when I am in Zamboanga, not because I don’t want to but because mom usually has the whole week’s menu already planned out and marketed. Also, mom and dad loved the fruits and vegetables in Baguio. Mommy especially loved the seedless oranges and the lettuce and carrots. Daddy loved the marinated bangus and of course, the peanut brittle. We also got to have lunch at Rose Bowl. That’s the place we stayed years ago when my siblings and I were very little. So it was like a trip down memory lane for Daddy because he hasn’t been to Baguio for more than 20 years I think! Anyway, we had a really nice lunch there and Mommy loved the pancit. So yeah, I had fun with that little trip. We also got to see Tam-Awan Village, the Butterfly Sanctuary, the Orchidarium, the Easter Weaving Room and the Chinese Bell Church. At least those places, we all got to see for the first time. It’s just too bad that my sis wasn’t with us during this trip. I think Mom and Dad were mentioning something about going back to Baguio next year. =D
The boys did have some fun at least and I’m happy about that. They really enjoyed the cool air, the greenery, the new sights and bonding moments with their grandparents. They also had some fun at a huge inflatable slide at SM. Nikki, who is usually not that physically active, really tried his best to keep up with Ethan. My little boy, on the other hand, had the time of his life. Now, I am thinking of getting them a trampoline just to let them have some fun fitness here at home.
Anyway, I suppose the whole thing (good and bad) was a wonderful experience still. Despite it all I am still very grateful for the bonding time I had with my family. Hopefully, there will be more vacations like this - only better.
Saturday, March 08, 2008
GETTING READY
I think we're going to have a pretty busy week.
Mom and dad are arriving from Zamboanga any minute. My brother will be picking them up at the airport. For the moment, our luggage is all ready for Baguio but I'll still have to check everything tonight and make sure that I don't forget anything. Plus I have to prepare the bags we will be bringing with us in the bus. Oooh! I'm so excited! =D
We will be leaving the house tomorrow at 3am because the first scheduled bus for Baguio leaves at 4am. Hopefully, mom and dad will get the tickets later. We will be back on the 14th so that means, I will be incommunicado for a few days. If I still have the energy to log in, I'll drop a line on Friday.
I hope this will be another fun family adventure. For now, I'm saying bye! =D
Mom and dad are arriving from Zamboanga any minute. My brother will be picking them up at the airport. For the moment, our luggage is all ready for Baguio but I'll still have to check everything tonight and make sure that I don't forget anything. Plus I have to prepare the bags we will be bringing with us in the bus. Oooh! I'm so excited! =D
We will be leaving the house tomorrow at 3am because the first scheduled bus for Baguio leaves at 4am. Hopefully, mom and dad will get the tickets later. We will be back on the 14th so that means, I will be incommunicado for a few days. If I still have the energy to log in, I'll drop a line on Friday.
I hope this will be another fun family adventure. For now, I'm saying bye! =D
Friday, March 07, 2008
ENCHANTED
I watched this movie yesterday and I really really loved it! I told Ruther that I'm so like Giselle when she talks about love. I could really live in a bubble with all the fantastic thoughts I have about it: the wonderment, the romance, the magic, the ups and downs, the singing and dancing, the sparkly eyes, and happily ever after. I also teased Ruther that he's a bit like Robert in the movie. Hahaha!! He denied it of course. =D But I think that Amy Adams as Giselle was perfect. She was really pretty and really made me think she was a storybook princess trapped in the real world. My favorite scene in the movie was when eveybody started to sing "That's How You Know". Yup, definitely my favorite. I even watched that scene again after watching the whole movie. The song just somehow stuck to my head. Anyway, I already told Ruther that we just HAD to have the DVD of this movie. This is one movie I will enjoy watching over and over. =D
BUSY DAYS
Our days just got so much busier. Well, maybe mine at least. I've been trying to concentrate more on my studies (really really want to finish it by next month) and have intensified our homschooling lessons as well. I want the boys to have a more "planned" day than usual, especially for Ethan so that we could have more one-on-one lessons. Then, there's next week's trip to Baguio with my mom, dad and brother. That's another thing to look forward to but will definitely add to our hectic schedules. I really don't know if I should be glad for all this busy-ness. Oh well...
.....
The mornings have been so cold lately that sometimes, I have to wake up in the early morning to make sure that the boys are under the blanket. Ethan usually kicks it off and sometimes suffers from little sniffles during the day. Nikki has his own blanket but sometimes it gets tangled up so I have to fix it for him. Me, I sleep with a blanket most nights even when it's not really chilly. Got used to it I guess. Ruther doesn't sleep with a blanket unless it's really cold. I remember when we were in Japan he once (and unconsciously) stole my blanket and I was really chilled in the morning! =D
March is usually the start of summer but with this really cold air, it actually feels a lot like December. And I'm not complaining. =D
.....
The mornings have been so cold lately that sometimes, I have to wake up in the early morning to make sure that the boys are under the blanket. Ethan usually kicks it off and sometimes suffers from little sniffles during the day. Nikki has his own blanket but sometimes it gets tangled up so I have to fix it for him. Me, I sleep with a blanket most nights even when it's not really chilly. Got used to it I guess. Ruther doesn't sleep with a blanket unless it's really cold. I remember when we were in Japan he once (and unconsciously) stole my blanket and I was really chilled in the morning! =D
March is usually the start of summer but with this really cold air, it actually feels a lot like December. And I'm not complaining. =D
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
FOR DADDY
Nikki makes a picture for his dad. Ruther already received it a few days ago through the care package I sent him. =D
GROWING BOYS
As a mother, I think it is always ingrained in my mind and heart that my boys are my babies. Even if they are officially preschoolers now at their ages, I still would like to think of them as my babies even if I don't treat them as so. So I suppose the only times I realize that they are growing and being less baby-like is when their clothes or shoes or hats no longer fit them. The other day, I realized that Nikki's toes were kind of sticking out of his sandals and Ethan's were getting a bit too tight and I had another oh-my-gosh-my-boys-are-growing-so-fast-and-are-no-longer-babies flashes. Yup, it kind of pinches my heart a bit because well, I want my boys to be my babies. It's really not like I can help it but you really want to spend as much time with them as you can and when you see these little growth spurts you feel like time is ticking away and you think, in a few years, my boys will be men. And yeah, I get scared. But not scared of letting them go but scared that I am not doing all that I can right now to ensure and make them ready for the future. I DO think and wonder about how they will be once they take on the world. I can only guide them but they will of course, have to make their own decisions in that respect. I only hope that when that time comes, they will know EXACTLY what they want and not be like me when I was deciding what I chose to take for college. I don't want them to settle for second best but neither do I want them to be one-dimensional. I want them to pursue what they truly want, to make mistakes, to get up and try again, to see the world in different views, to relish everyday and live it to the fullest. Yes, these are all my hopes and dreams for my boys. Hopefully, all my teaching will not go to waste. I would like to hope that my decision to homeschool will mold them into the kind of men that would make their families proud. Yes, all the best intentions for my boys. But those will come much later, I know. For now, I think it's time I each get them a new pair of sandals.
ONE-ON-ONE WITH ETHAN
Last night, I thought it was time to try having one-on-one lessons with Ethan. He usually cannot sit still for long periods of time or sometimes, when we leaf through a book and I would ask him questions like, “How many dogs do you see?” or “Where is the rainbow?” he would just flip to the next page and ignore me. I don’t force him to answer my questions when he’s not in the mood but it can really be frustrating.
Anyway, last night, I thought we could try again. This time, I got his write-and-wipe book. I know he loves interactive books and I know he loves to write and draw so I called him to me and showed him the book. On the bed, he sat on my lap and slowly, we did the book together. I would hold his hand while he tried to follow the curves and lines, the letters, the objects and the shapes. I was really happy that it lasted longer than I expected it to be. I think he was really fascinated with the way we answered the book (I made airplane and train noises while we drew because he likes airplanes and trains a lot) that even after we were done, he still kept at it. And this morning, when he saw his write-and-wipe book, he immediately got his boardmarker and doodled in it. I think this is a good sign. Maybe next time, we might even last through a whole story. For now, I am glad for little miracles.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
DO YOU WORRY TOO MUCH?
Your Worry Factor is 51% |
 While you're not a worrywart, you worry more than you should. Maybe you don't have enough to keep your mind occupied at times... Or perhaps you've trapped yourself into some bad thinking patterns. Try to worry less and enjoy life more. There's no point thinking about things you can't change! |
Monday, March 03, 2008
SOTANGHON SOUP
1 tbsp oil
2 cloves garlic minced
2 tbsp minced onion
1/2 C flaked cooked chicken
2 C chicken broth
1 C soaked sotanghon nooodles
2 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp pepper
1/4 C chopped green onion
Heat oil and saute garlic, onions and chicken. Stir fry for a few minutes until chicken changes color. Pour in broth. Bring to a boil then add soaked sotanghon. Season to taste. Add chopped green onion.
2 cloves garlic minced
2 tbsp minced onion
1/2 C flaked cooked chicken
2 C chicken broth
1 C soaked sotanghon nooodles
2 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp pepper
1/4 C chopped green onion
Heat oil and saute garlic, onions and chicken. Stir fry for a few minutes until chicken changes color. Pour in broth. Bring to a boil then add soaked sotanghon. Season to taste. Add chopped green onion.
SKIPPING SCHOOL
Once in a while, we have a “skip school” day. On this day, we don’t do any formal lessons. I just leave the boys to do as they please and I could curl up in bed with a good book. I know some homeschooling moms would gasp at this and might even think, “What is this woman doing?! She should be teaching those boys the way I do!” Well, in our home, we are quite laidback. Some days we would sit outside and just look up at the sky and the forming clouds. Other days we would be immersed in experiments or Playdough. And some days we would be at the mall doing groceries and interacting with a variety of people. Today was a “skip school” day. When I woke up this morning, I had a little headache so I told Nikki that we were going to take it easy today. So they played with their blocks and Ethan read his Insects book while I tried to finish my book quietly. While waiting for me to get up, they watched an episode of Blue’s Clues and ate some cereal. Then I readied their bath water and after having their refreshing baths, I decided to fix the boys’ workbooks and stuff in the bookshelf. While I was doing this, Ethan did some coloring and Nikki played with his Nintendo DS. Then after a quick lunch and bath (for me), we read some books together. At 2pm, it was naptime but the boys were so talkative that they eventually dozed off at 230 pm. I tidied up the room and napped a bit as well. Then at 5pm when the sun was not too hot anymore, we went outside and the boys took turns on the bicycle. Nikki was particularly fascinated with the falling leaves. Actually only one or two fell when the wind blew so when it got a bit windy, he would look up at the tree for falling leaves. I thought, “This must be what Newton was like when he discovered gravity.” Anyway, after an hour or so, we fried some hotdogs and then the boys showered. A few minutes ago, Nikki spoke to his dad and told him about his uneventful day. Ethan was too distracted with his blocks to speak to his dad but he went to the camera to say hi.
And so far, that was our day. Nothing spectacular, just all fun and relaxation. But then again, the night is still young…
And so far, that was our day. Nothing spectacular, just all fun and relaxation. But then again, the night is still young…
TITA NICKI
Today I received a wonderful email from Tita Nicki. In case you have no idea who she is, she is Ruther's Australian aunt who lived with us when she came for work last year. That was longest I've been with her because in previous visits, she would say with Mama's relatives. But last year, we had enough space for her and her daughter Natasha so they stayed with us and it was great finally getting to know them so well.
I miss Tita Nicki a lot. She's very caring, empathic and intelligent. She's the type of person I could share anything and everything with. Yup, I really feel like she's my second mom. During the months she was here, I have grown to respect her so much. Not only does she have this dedication to her work, but she is also very devoted to her family. I wish I could be like her and be able to balance career and family when the time comes.
What I really miss the most about Tita Nicki is our chats. In the evenings when she's home with us, we would sit at the table and just talk about anything. We could talk about serious things like OFW's (Overseas Filipino Worker's) situations in other countries, about family life, about education, and tv shows. Sometimes, we would just talk about food and health and sickness. I told Ruther that before Tita Nicki came, I was beginning to think I would not be able to have any intelligent conversations anymore. Really, I miss just having to talk and share thoughts, ideas and opinions about whatever is close to my heart. I just miss her so much now.
I suppose it helps a bit that we email each other from time to time. It can't be on a regular basis because she is quite busy with work but once in a while, when I see a letter from her, it just gives me a very warm feeling. I hope to see her again this year but she's still not sure if she'll be coming for another visit. If that does not push through, I guess I just have to be content with getting emails from her. That will not make me miss her any less, but at least I will still get to "talk" to one of my favorite people often.
I miss Tita Nicki a lot. She's very caring, empathic and intelligent. She's the type of person I could share anything and everything with. Yup, I really feel like she's my second mom. During the months she was here, I have grown to respect her so much. Not only does she have this dedication to her work, but she is also very devoted to her family. I wish I could be like her and be able to balance career and family when the time comes.
What I really miss the most about Tita Nicki is our chats. In the evenings when she's home with us, we would sit at the table and just talk about anything. We could talk about serious things like OFW's (Overseas Filipino Worker's) situations in other countries, about family life, about education, and tv shows. Sometimes, we would just talk about food and health and sickness. I told Ruther that before Tita Nicki came, I was beginning to think I would not be able to have any intelligent conversations anymore. Really, I miss just having to talk and share thoughts, ideas and opinions about whatever is close to my heart. I just miss her so much now.
I suppose it helps a bit that we email each other from time to time. It can't be on a regular basis because she is quite busy with work but once in a while, when I see a letter from her, it just gives me a very warm feeling. I hope to see her again this year but she's still not sure if she'll be coming for another visit. If that does not push through, I guess I just have to be content with getting emails from her. That will not make me miss her any less, but at least I will still get to "talk" to one of my favorite people often.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
SUMMER MEMORIES
March in other countries, especially the ones with four seasons, marks the beginning of spring. In the Philippines, it is the beginning of summer and is a warning of hot months ahead and jampacked malls and summer clinics/classes.
I remember when I was in college, I really hated going to school during summer because it was really really HOT! Not only did it make learning uncomfortable but I really could not enjoy and appreciate all the lessons in the stifling classroom. I studied in a state university and well, it's not really first class so sometimes, the air conditioning would break down or an air conditioning unit was simply a fan in disguise (yup, the thermostat was broken) or the classroom we were in did not have an air conditioning unit at all. If you forgot to bring a fan to class, woe is you. But I really had fun with Zoology. I just love science so much!
I also remember when I was little, summer usually meant halo-halo stands everywhere. I grew up in a small city and for a time, we lived with my paternal grandparents. It was fun living with my cousins' families (there were 3 of us living with my grandparents, which is not unusual for Chinese families). During the summer, we would either buy halo-halo at the stores or make some for ourselves. Of course, making our own halo-halo was more fun. It was fun shaving the ice, adding all the sahog you could want, and drowning everything in evaporated milk and topping it with a spoon full of sugar. Sometimes, my cousins and I would ask someone to climb the coconut tree in the backyard for some yummy buko juice and meat. I liked mine with some milk and a bit of sugar. Really yummy. Other times, we would also get some green mangoes from the tree (also in the backyard) and eat it with soy sauce and come evening, we would have tummy aches. One summer though, we decided to be entrepreneurial and make our own ice candy. We decided to make 3 flavors: milk, choco (which was milo mixed with milk) and mongo (which was milk with like 10-12 pieces of mongo beans in it). At the end of the day we hardly had money earned because we usually just ate most of the ice candy. But we had loads of fun.
I can still remember so many memories of summer and I don't think I have enough time tonight to write them all but maybe I'll write a bit at a time while I can still remember and reminisce. Now that I am a mother, I want my boys to have their own summer memories. They may not be like mine, but I want them to be memories that will last them a lifetime.
I remember when I was in college, I really hated going to school during summer because it was really really HOT! Not only did it make learning uncomfortable but I really could not enjoy and appreciate all the lessons in the stifling classroom. I studied in a state university and well, it's not really first class so sometimes, the air conditioning would break down or an air conditioning unit was simply a fan in disguise (yup, the thermostat was broken) or the classroom we were in did not have an air conditioning unit at all. If you forgot to bring a fan to class, woe is you. But I really had fun with Zoology. I just love science so much!
I also remember when I was little, summer usually meant halo-halo stands everywhere. I grew up in a small city and for a time, we lived with my paternal grandparents. It was fun living with my cousins' families (there were 3 of us living with my grandparents, which is not unusual for Chinese families). During the summer, we would either buy halo-halo at the stores or make some for ourselves. Of course, making our own halo-halo was more fun. It was fun shaving the ice, adding all the sahog you could want, and drowning everything in evaporated milk and topping it with a spoon full of sugar. Sometimes, my cousins and I would ask someone to climb the coconut tree in the backyard for some yummy buko juice and meat. I liked mine with some milk and a bit of sugar. Really yummy. Other times, we would also get some green mangoes from the tree (also in the backyard) and eat it with soy sauce and come evening, we would have tummy aches. One summer though, we decided to be entrepreneurial and make our own ice candy. We decided to make 3 flavors: milk, choco (which was milo mixed with milk) and mongo (which was milk with like 10-12 pieces of mongo beans in it). At the end of the day we hardly had money earned because we usually just ate most of the ice candy. But we had loads of fun.
I can still remember so many memories of summer and I don't think I have enough time tonight to write them all but maybe I'll write a bit at a time while I can still remember and reminisce. Now that I am a mother, I want my boys to have their own summer memories. They may not be like mine, but I want them to be memories that will last them a lifetime.
Saturday, March 01, 2008
COUNTING MY CHICKENS?
The other day while at the mall, I happened to spy this really cute stroller bag that had an accompanying handbag that you could daintily put through the handle of the stroller bag so it seems like you have 2 bags in one. I really liked it because to me, it looked so handy and I could still remember the pain I endured after carrying my shoulder bag during the entire trip to Japan last year. I told myself that if there was a possibility that we were going back to Japan, I would use a stroller bag next time that could be checked in. And this bag I saw was cute and at the same time not expensive. I really really wanted to get it but then, I got soooo worried. I thought, "Am I counting my chickens?" Am I hoping too much only to be disappointed later on? I was in such a quandary because I thought that a.) if I get the bag/s it could mean that I'm thinking positively and should I get the bag/s and make it to Japan, the purchase would be worth it (it's on SALE!); BUT b.) if I AM counting my chickens before they hatch and I get the bag/s and we won't be going to Japan, I would really really hate myself for getting it and wasting money and just jinxing the whole trip. Yeah, I can think crazy sometimes. Okay, maybe not sometimes but really, thinking like this is driving me nuts!! Should I get the bag? Should I not get the bag? Should I get the bag?...
TV SHOWS
American Idol
Been following this show and I must say I already have my favorites. For now, I have only 2 and they are all girls: Ramiele Malubay and Carly Smithson. Carly is really talented. She knows her stuff and can work the camera. But I'm betting on Ramiele not only because she's Asian American but because she is also very talented. She just needs a bit more confidence. But I think she's really smart and she can really win this. I also believe she is more talented than Jasmine Trias. So you go girl!! Wishing you all the luck! =D
Project Runway
Oh my god. I was soooo disappointed when Chris did not make it to Fashion Week. I really went AAAARRRGGH!!! on this. I felt so bad. I really think that it would have been interesting to see his collection on the runway. I must admit that using human hair in his collection was something really weird but I was quite open to his creativity and I thought it was really gutsy of him. Rami's was not too spectacular. Yeah, he made pieces that showed more than his usual draping but I still liked Chris' a whole lot more. I was soooo disappointed when they said that Rami was in. It was just a really bad season. My first bet Victorya did not make it and now Chris is out. Good thing Jillian is one of the top 3 and now I really hope that SHE wins this season. Am so looking forward to seeing all their collections! I can't wait!
Been following this show and I must say I already have my favorites. For now, I have only 2 and they are all girls: Ramiele Malubay and Carly Smithson. Carly is really talented. She knows her stuff and can work the camera. But I'm betting on Ramiele not only because she's Asian American but because she is also very talented. She just needs a bit more confidence. But I think she's really smart and she can really win this. I also believe she is more talented than Jasmine Trias. So you go girl!! Wishing you all the luck! =D
Project Runway
Oh my god. I was soooo disappointed when Chris did not make it to Fashion Week. I really went AAAARRRGGH!!! on this. I felt so bad. I really think that it would have been interesting to see his collection on the runway. I must admit that using human hair in his collection was something really weird but I was quite open to his creativity and I thought it was really gutsy of him. Rami's was not too spectacular. Yeah, he made pieces that showed more than his usual draping but I still liked Chris' a whole lot more. I was soooo disappointed when they said that Rami was in. It was just a really bad season. My first bet Victorya did not make it and now Chris is out. Good thing Jillian is one of the top 3 and now I really hope that SHE wins this season. Am so looking forward to seeing all their collections! I can't wait!
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