ETHAN'S (NO LONGER) PET

That's Wormy in his bucket. Ethan just looooves to look at him all the time. He just loves all sorts of wriggly creatures. =)

WORMY AND WHITE PAW

I forgot to mention that we let Wormy go yesterday. Although he was doing well in his container, I'm not a worm expert to be able to say that he's really okay. So, rather than throw away a dead worm (and I know how helpful they are to plants), I decided to let him go instead. With Ethan's permission of course. He was okay with the plan and just said, "Bye, Wormy!" when I let him out of the container. He wiggled his way into the soil and that was that. Well, here's hoping you have a long and happy life, Wormy! (Stay away from the birds!)

.....

Speaking of pets, White Paw is getting to be way too big for his basket. I think I have to look for an adequate cage for him. Maybe one that would be large enough for him to move around a bit when he's inside it but certainly not one that would cost so much. Hopefully, I'll be able to get him a nice one next month. (And hopefully he'll be happy sleeping in it in the evenings.)

I'M BACK

I feel like it's been ages since I last blogged... Wait a minute! What am I saying? It HAS been ages since I last wrote! Duh!

Things have just become hectic last week. I've been trying to finish my textbook (pretty successful with that), been trying to find some independent activities for the boys (so I could study without interruptions), and been pretty much up to my neck with other activities. In fact, there are so many things in my head right now, I don't know where to begin.

Anyway, I'll just type as I think then (which can become pretty tricky later on)... Last Saturday, we went along with my brother-in-law Russell at their company's family fun day. It was held at a waterpark and since the boys love the water a lot, I thought it would be nice to tag-along. What I didn't expect though, were the hoards of people. We barely found a table for ourselves and since there were just so many people around, I didn't want to leave the boys unwatched by the kiddie pool. So, I had to stay close by and of course, got way too much sun than I had planned. But anyway, we (the boys and I) had lots of fun though. They especially loved the wave pool because well, who wouldn't love it? After 2 hours in it, though, I didn't love it any more because my legs and arms got so tired from having to swim/wade after the boys everytime they tried to get away from me. By afternoon, I had a headache, partly because of the sun and partly from exhaustion. Good thing I brought an analgesic with me so I took one. Anyway, we got home pretty late and as expected, the boys are beyond tan. I think they look like rich chocolate brown. (Hahaha!) They didn't have any sunburns though. I, on the other hand, have burns on my shoulders. I can't even recall the last time I had sunburns. I am usually so careful and always apply and reapply sunblock. But I suppose last Saturday, the sun was just too much for my skin or maybe the sunblock lost its strengh -is that even possible?- or maybe global-warming is really too much for all the sunblock in the world so now, I have sunburns. Well, actually, it's getting better now. Last Sunday, I had to wear a spaghetti-strapped blouse because a shirt would have been too painful. But now, my shoulders are getting better. Which is a relief actually. I wouldn't want to get another sunburn ever again!! It's just too bothersome. The good thing about the trip though, was that it was another wonderful bonding day for me and the boys. I guess nothing beats that. Not even sunburn.

SILENCE

There are days when I wish I had a private soundproofed bubble and I could stay in there and just relish the silence. I don't know if I'm the only one but I sometimes get so rattled at all the noise around me. It's not just the boys' shouting and shrieking or the tv or the noisy kids outside. Sometimes it can be the neighbors' barking dogs, or the talking neighbors, or the shriek of a kettle, or even some disturbing news I heard the other day. Sometimes, I just want to be alone with my thoughts. Completely alone.

You might think me strange but I like peace and quiet. I could even live without a tv (Ruther couldn't so the tv in our room is staying there), just give me lots of books to while my time away. I like to mull things over in my head. I like to hear myself think. I just want to be able to think non-stop without interruptions, to be able to form cohesive thoughts or look ahead into the future. I want to be able to listen to my heartbeat without the help of a stethoscope and to be able to think with my eyes open. I want to look deep within myself and just reflect on many things.

I suppose the bathroom is the place where I can get the most peace and quiet in the house. But of course, I can't stay there for long periods of time or people will start to wonder what I'm up to in there. So I suppose my quiet time is late at night when the boys are asleep. When the room is dim and the house (and street) is quiet, I would just lie in bed, stare at the ceiling and let my thoughts wander. Sometimes, I write them down but it's nothing fancy. I usually just want to reflect on things and to allow myself to think freely. Like I forgot to do something the other day and then I would suddenly remember. Or I would have an idea for a family vacation and think about sharing it with Ruther. Or, I would recall something funny the boys said or think about how fast they are growing as each day passes. Or I would think about the future and just turn those thoughts over and over in my head. Sometimes, my thoughts calm me but sometimes, they make me anxious. But I've always been a thinker (Ruther would say "worrier") but I suppose that's just who I am. During the day, I find myself having difficulty with such reflections. There's just too much distraction and noise, I suppose. So usually, when night falls and the room is filled with the gentle breathing of the boys, I am able to reflect and just be alone with my thoughts. I would really love to have that soundproofed bubble but I guess a quiet room at night is better than nothing.

INIHAW NA PUSIT (GRILLED SQUID)

1 kilo squid
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup vinegar
1/2 head garlic (minced)
1/2 tablespoon ginger (minced)
1 teaspoon hot chili pepper (minced)
2 teaspoons salt

Wash and clean squid well.Take out the black ink. Take out the skin and film. In a bowl, mix all the ingredients and marinate the squid for 1 hour.Grill squid for about 4 minutes on each side.Heat remaining marinade mixture for sauce. Serve with sauce.

FOR THE LOVE OF...

Maybe I should have a shirt made that says "I WILL homeschool my boys and there's nothing you can do or say that will change my mind" and wear it all the time. Dyu think people will (finally) get the idea and stop pestering me to send the boys to school? Or perhaps I should put a tattoo on my forehead that says the same thing? What else do I have to do to make them understand that I DON'T WANT to send my boys to traditional school and would much prefer to homeschool them and if they don't want to accept that then they can kiss my ---- rabbit.

.....

I feel like I've been living in limbo for the past days. I've immersed myself in my lessons (really wonderful read) and I'm progressing quite well. Am on the last few chapters of my textbook and then I'm done with this module (series of assignments). I think I have one more module to go before I complete this course and I am so excited to finish. Anyway, we've been taking it easy for a while with the boys' lessons. We're due for another science experiment so I have to do some research and planning. The boys still spend some of their time swimming in the pool or playing with their toys (i.e., making a mess) and studying on the computer. I sometimes can't use it because they love Blue's Clues Kindergarten so much. But hey, I won't mind as long as they learn many things from it. :) Summer is halfway over. Can't wait for the rainy season...

.....

I just found out yesterday that my parents will be coming to Manila on the 1st of May. My dad will have another golf tournament on that weekend so we'll be seeing them again soon. Already, my dad asked me if we (meaning, the boys) could go home to Zamboanga. I said that's not possible because starting May we'll be collecting our documents for our (temporary) visa. Plus, I have to call the accredited travel agencies to make inquiries (the Japan embassy no longer accepts walk-ins so now I would have to go through one of these agencies to submit our papers). I am kind of worried about this new policy because 1. we'd have to shell out more money for the placement fee, and 2. I'm not really comfortable leaving something this important in someone else's hands. So I want to know which of the 4 accredited agencies will be the most okay. Hopefully, nothing will go wrong. I hope I hope I hope. Anyway, I know my dad really misses the boys and want to spend some time with them and I don't want to be selfish but we just really can't go to Zamboanga this year. It's just not possible and I would rather we save the money for the fare to Japan. I just really hope that everything will proceed smoothly.

THE GOLDEN COMPASS

I watched this movie the other day and I really liked it. I don't know why I enjoy movies like this so much; you know, a parallel universe, similar yet different from our own. Star Wars, Harry Potter, Lord of The Rings, Narnia... all fantastic places that tickle our imagination.

Anyway, I didn't know anything about this movie at all. In fact, I just wanted to watch it because I knew that Nicole Kidman was in it. Okay, I know, flimsy excuse to watch a movie, but hey, I like her and I think she's a great actress. Anyway, I loved the movie a lot. In fact, I liked it so much, I watched it twice. Yup, twice. It was just so interesting and all new and all so creative. I loved the props, the idea of a daemon, the Witches and Ice bears and Gyptians and parallel universes. Really, what's not interesting about that? Anyway, I didn't even realize that there was a book!! So now, I want to read the story more than ever. Of course, when the movie ended I was like, "That's it?!" And then I read that a sequel might be produced later on so I was relieved. Really, I just wanted the movie to go on and on and on...

The movie filled my head so much after I first watched it that I even dreamed of the characters for 2 nights, can you believe that? I can't even remember the last movie that affected me this much! Anyway, I also read that The Golden Compass was not very popular in the US but was a hit in other countries. It's quite amusing becuse I find it really hard to dislike this movie. But then again, I like living in a fastasy world so I guess this movie is made for people like me. =)

MID-APRIL NEWS

I'm happy to report that Wormy seems to be doing okay in his new home. Of course, the only time he's flustered is when we try to look for him in the dirt. Oh well. But we try to make up for that by giving it lots of food and a sprinkle of water. I just realized this past few days that taking care of worms is kind of fun. In the past, I would never think of having one as a pet but now, it's kind of interesting. And, as Becky says, worms are good for the environment, so there. Hmmm... I think we better find Wormy a companion don't you think?

.....

Been studying and reading like crazy these past few days. I'm already halfway through my (thick) textbook. It's just getting to be so interesting with all the childhood disorders. I mean, before I started this course, I would read in the news about ADHD, bipolar disorders, depression in kids and after a while, I would forget all about it. But once I read more about the disorders it's just all so interesting and really worrisome that some of the disorders that are being treated in the US is not being given the same attention here in the Philippines. Not that I blame anyone. I guess it's just more difficult to focus on health issues here when other pressing problems concern the government. I suppose we still have a long way to go in studying and researching childhood disorders, diagnosing it and treating it.

.....

I feel like April has just gone by in a flash. Already it's halfway over and I am just so excited for it to be May. So many things to plan for, so many things to prepare, so many things to look forward to. I just hope and pray that everything goes well and goes smoothly.

ETHAN'S PET WORM

The other day (it was late afternoon) we saw this worm crawling aimlessly in the garage. We had no idea where it came from but I knew that Ethan would love to see it. So I called him. And, the bug-lover that he is, he was so fascinated with it. It was as fat as one of his fingers and was around 6 inches long. Then, I thought, why not keep it as Ethan’s pet? I mean, I don’t think it’s difficult to take care of an earthworm, right? So, before it could reach the end of our garage (Nikki kept watch), I got a transparent container, filled it with soil and with a stick, carefully picked Wormy (its name) up and put it in its new home. Ethan kept on asking, “where’s the earthworm?” all the time while checking the container and I would say, “he’s in his home.” Whenever Wormy would appear on the sides of the container, Ethan would be excited all over again. And of course, Wormy would make its way into the deeper and darker part of the container and would disappear (because of course, they like the dark but my boy doesn’t know that yet) which would disappoint Ethan. This afternoon, Ethan couldn’t see any part of Wormy at all and he complained to me, “Where’s Wormy? He’s gone!” So, I had to get a stick and look for Wormy. When we found him in the middle of the container (as usual), that satisfied Ethan so we gave Wormy some leaves and sprinkled some water on the soil. Then we let him be because I was thinking Wormy had enough poking for one day. Anyway, I’m still not sure when we’re letting Wormy go but I don’t think it’s anytime soon yet. I think it will be great to have Wormy with us for a while and it would be great to study an earthworm up close. I guess Ethan will have to decide when to let go of Wormy. Hopefully, it won’t be too long.

SMILE!

Happy my boys are. Wish they could stay this way always...

=D

RAINS

We have had some rains yesterday, at last. It was wonderful. When we woke up, a cloudy sky greeted us and I knew that the cool breeze would grant us a comfortable day. We spent the day reading and playing games. I was able to do a lot of studying too because the refreshing weather just made everyone less irritable so the boys were busy doing the things the do best (i.e., making a mess). For the first time in days, the boys did not rush to their pool to keep cool. For the first time in days, I could wear a top with sleeves and not feel warm. It was great. Today was a bit sunny but the cloudy sky made the afternoon tolerable. The boys napped comfortably and I had more time to study. I read in the news that there's a typhoon in the country. Well, I hope that it's not destructive enough to cost lives but at the same time, I hope that it will remain to keep the weather cool for the time being.

.....

I've been depressed for the past days (which probably explains why I haven't blogged). Some things in my life have just been really confusing and I just had to gather my thoughts and to reflect on things. Sometimes I wonder about the purpose of it all, sometimes I just want to give up. But then, all it takes is a silver lining, an olive branch and then all is well again. Well at least this time, I hope it will remain so.

THAT'S HOW YOU KNOW

from the movie Enchanted
Amy Adams

Giselle:
How does she know you love her?
How does she know she's yours?

Man:
How does she know that you love her?

Giselle:
How do you show her you love her?

Both:
How does she know that you really, really, truely love her?
How does she know that you love her?
How do you show her you love her?
How does she know that you really, really, truely love her?

Giselle:
It's not enough to take the one you love for granted
You must remind her, or she'll be inclined to say...
"How do I know he loves me?"
(How does she know that you love her?
How do you show her you love her?)
"How do I know he's mine?"
(How does she know that you really, really, truely love her?)

Well does he leave a little note to tell you you are on his mind?
Send you yellow flowers when the sky is grey? Heyy!
He'll find a new way to show you, a little bit everyday
That's how you know, that's how you know!
He's your love...

Man:
You've got to show her you need her
Don't treat her like a mind reader
Each day do something to need her
To believe you love her

Giselle:
Everybody wants to live happily ever after
Everybody wants to know their true love is true...
How do you know he loves you?
(How does she know that you love her?
How do you show her you need her?)
How do you know he's yours?
(How does she know that you really, really, truely-)

Well does he take you out dancin' just so he can hold you close?
Dedicate a song with words in
Just for you? Ohhh!

All:
He'll find his own way to tell you
With the little things he'll do
That's how you know
That's how you know!

Giselle:
He's your love
He's your love...

That's how you know
(la la la la la la la la)
He loves you
(la la la la la la la la)
That's how you know
(la la la la la la la la)
It's true
(la la la la la)

Because he'll wear your favorite color
Just so he can match your eyes
Rent a private picnic
By the fires glow-oohh!

All:
His heart will be yours forever
Something everyday will show
That's how you know
(That's how you know)
That's how you know
(That's how you know)
That's how you know
(That's how you know)
That's how you know
(That's how you know)
That's how you know
(That's how you know)
That's how you know
(That's how you know)
That's how you know!

Giselle:
He's your love...

Man:
That's how she knows that you love her
That's how you show her you love her

Giselle:
That's how you know...
That's how you know...
He's your love...

INTERNET WOES AND OTHER WORRIES

We had some internet problems yesterday. From late afternoon til evening. It's such a bother really because not only can't I blog (especially if I want to do it in the evening) but I can't have a video chat with Ruther which can be really frustrating. I mean, sure, I could always call him from my cellphone but we don't have to spend much for video chats. Whenever we have an internet problem, it really feels like I'm out of touch with Ruther. I mean, I could always send him a quick message on his cellphone from my email. Or he could inform me he'll be home late and I could read that in my inbox. It's really very reliable. But of course, not when the connection is faulty. Once that happens, it's like being in a blackout. It's so frustrating. Anyway, I hope there will be no internet problems from now on.

.....

I'm still really considering getting that haircut. I just feel that I'll be more comfortable if I have shorter hair this summer. I just wasn't expecting it to be this warm! But I'm still looking for a good hairstyle. I wouldn't want to go to the salon with no idea about a hairstyle at all. I might regret the decision later on. (Hopefully that won't happen.)

.....

I just realized that I haven't been posting much about White Paw, our rabbit. Well, he's doing okay. He's actually HUGE now. He could barely fit in his basket. He's a bit fed up of his rabbit pellets right now so I try to give him veggies. I think the summer heat is making him crave for more juicy choices. =D He's having those flakes on his nose right now (like what Sushi had before) but I try to apply oil on it as often as possible to not let it spread. But aside from that, he's doing okay. Maybe when his nose gets all better, I'll post a nice photo of him again. =D

.....

I can't believe April is halfway over. May will probably be a busy month for us because that's when we start collecting our papers and documents for our visa application for Japan. I'm really really hoping and praying all goes well then. Nikki is already looking forward to seeing his dad so I hope that God will grant us this second chance to be with Ruther in Japan. I think it will be another wonderful bonding experience for all of us. So please please please, help pray with me for this trip to come true for us.

PEPPER STEAK STIR-FRY

beef.betterrecipes.com

1 large piece of sirloin steak
1 large onion
1 large green pepper
Sliced fresh mushrooms
Fresh garlic
1 8 oz can of tomato sauce
Worcestershire Sauce
Salt
Pepper
Sugar

Slice steak into thin strips. Saute in olive oil and add fresh garlic. Add pepper, onion and mushrooms and saute for 10 minutes. Add tomato sauce, 3 drops of Worcestershire sauce and a pinch of sugar. Salt & pepper to taste, cover and simmer on low for 20 minutes. Serve over white rice.
Number of servings: 4

NIKKI ICE SKATES

Last Monday, the boys and I went to the mall together with my sister and brother. My sister wanted to buy some things there and we decided to tag-along to escape the summer heat and at the same time, have a bit of fun. Anyway, while we were there we passed by the skating rink and I thought that maybe it would be nice for Nikki to try it. (I decided against letting Ethan try it because I was not in the mood to chase him around the ice just in case he gets away from me. Besides, I had to video Nikki as well.) I asked Nikki if it was all right and he said yes. So, we inquired at the booth. I wanted Nikki to have a coach with him for his first time but I didn’t want to wait for a long time in case there was a queue. Fortunately, there were only a few skaters there so we paid the fees and Nikki geared up. He looked so cute with his yellow helmet. And he was so excited. Ethan was getting all excited too but I told him that Nikki was going alone and he could have his turn next time. We waited for a few minutes until a coach became available. Nikki’s introductory lesson was for 30 minutes. I figured that would be sufficient for a first-timer like Nikki. This way it won’t take too long in case Nikki gets tired. Anyway, the coach assigned to Nikki was nice and very patient. When Nikki refused to let go of him almost the entire time during their session, he did not mind. I just took photos and videos the entire time while cheering Nikki from the side. After fifteen minutes on the ice, they both came out of the rink. The coach informed me that Nikki had good balance but he was just too nervous about falling. He also told me that while they were on the rink and he let go of Nikki for a little while, my little boy told him, “I need somebody! Please don’t leave me!” Of course, he reassured the anxious Nikki that he would not let him fall. Anyway, Nikki thought that he was done but I told him to try again. Besides, we paid for a 30-minute lesson! So he gamely went out into the ice again with his coach and this time he was a bit more confident. When his lesson was over, he was all smiles and I was glad that he enjoyed the experience. The coach advised me that next time Nikki skates, it would be best for him to have a familiar companion who could skate along with him on the ice; one who was not afraid of falling or skating. So, I thought that perhaps next time, Ethan could have a go at it as well. This boy is never scared of falling, that’s for sure.

Come evening, we told Ruther about Nikki’s first skating experience. He was happy that Nikki had fun. Me, I’m just glad that Nikki had the experience. We still don’t know when another opportunity will come when we could pass by the mall again to ice skate but if we do happen to make it there, we’ll surely add it to our itinerary.

LITTLE ARTIST

Ethan and his favorite thing to do. =D

"GROWN UP" GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH

from foodnetwork.com

1 loaf Italian bread such as ciabatta
1 pound Teleme or Brie cheese
1 pound sliced smoked ham (applewood if available)
Butter
3 to 4 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 cup roasted red peppers

Cut loaf of bread in half lengthwise. Top the bottom bread slice with the Teleme cheese, then the smoked ham, distributing it evenly. Place top of bread on sandwich and brush with butter.
Heat a sandwich grill until hot. Set sandwich, butter side down in grill. Butter top side of bread. Place a heavy pan on top of entire sandwich to evenly distribute weight and cook until nicely browned and the cheese is melted, turning once, 3 to 4 minutes on each side.
Transfer the sandwich to a work surface and remove the top slice of bread. Spread the underside of the bread with mustard, and add roasted peppers, if desired.
Replace the top slice of bread, cut the sandwiches into slices, and serve immediately.

ARAW NG KAGITINGAN (DAY OF VALOR)

Every year on April 9, the captured soldiers are honored on Araw ng Kagitingan ("Day of Valor"), also known as the "Bataan Day", which is a national holiday in the Philippines.

On April 9, 1942, 12,000 American soldiers surrendered to the Japanese at the tip of the Bataan Peninsula, which juts into Manila Bay in the Philippines. For nearly five months, the troops had fought ferociously against overwhelming odds until they ran out of food, medical supplies and ammunition. As prisoners of war (POWs), they and thousands of Filipinos were taken to a camp run by the Japanese army. This grueling series of marches are now known as the Bataan Death March. The 60th anniversary of this tragic event will be commemorated during PBS' 2002 National Memorial Day Concert. Following are some compelling - facts about the March:

During World War II, there were approximately 78,000 Allied soldiers stationed in Bataan including 12,000 Americans and 66,000 Filipinos. The poorly trained Filipinos, most of whom had never fired a weapon, were thrown into frontline combat against highly trained Japanese troops. Americans from non-combatant outfits, such as air corpsmen, and in some instances even civilians, were also formed into provisional infantry units.

Following the surrender, the Japanese army assembled the captive Fil-American soldiers in the various sectors in Bataan, but mainly at Mariveles, the southernmost tip of the Peninsula. Although American trucks were available to transport the prisoners, the Japanese decided to march the soldiers to their destination.

The Death March was really a series of marches, which lasted from five to nine days. The distance a captive had to march was determined by the point at which he started on the trail. The full route was 55 miles long from Mariveles, Bataan, to San Fernando, Pampanga. At San Fernando, the prisoners were placed into cargo trains and transported to Capas, Tarlac, a distance of around 24 miles. They were then marched another six miles to their final destination, Camp O'Donnell.

It is estimated that about 24,000 men died during the March as the tired, sick and starving troops were repeatedly beaten and denied food and water. Many of the soldiers lost their lives to dehydration and heat exhaustion. Those who tried to stop for water or to accept food from the local people were also killed.

Approximately 1,600 Americans died in the first 40 days in Camp O'Donnell. Almost 20,000 Filipinos also lost their lives in their first four months of captivity in the same camp. O'Donnell did not have the sanitation sub-structure or water supply necessary to hold so many men and there was little medicine available to treat the dysentery and beriberi that was common among the POWs. An inadequate diet also contributed to the high death rate.

On June 6, 1942, the Japanese transferred all Americans to Cabanatuan, north of Camp O'Donnell, leaving behind 500 as caretakers and for funeral details. They in turn were sent to Cabanatuan on July 5, 1942. The Filipino prisoners were paroled, beginning in July 1942.

Cabanatuan, for most prisoners, ended up being a temporary POW camp. The Japanese had a policy - in direct violation of the Geneva Convention - that prisoners were to be used as a source of labor. Most were sent to various other camps in the Philippines, China, Japan and Korea, where they were used as slave labor. Some worked in mines, others in farms and factories, while yet more unloaded ships in port areas, for the remainder of the war.

Most Americans did not find out about the atrocities that took place in Bataan until January 28, 1944, when the U.S. government released a joint report from the Army and Navy. This was compiled from the sworn statements of officers who survived the March and POW camps.

Bataan Day is a national holiday in the Philippines when large groups of its citizens solemnly re-walk parts of the death route and pay homage to the victims of the March. The battleground of Bataan is now a national shrine. In the U.S., the Bataan Memorial Death March takes place each year at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. More than 3,000 marchers from across the U.S. and from overseas tackle a 26.2-mile route through high desert terrain in honor of those who served.

H-O-T!

Last night was one of the hottest nights this summer. Even the boys were restless in sleep. Ethan kept on changing positions. I know because I'm a light sleeper and he would move from my side to Nikki's side and then after a while, he would transfer to my side again. I had to turn on the AC in the middle of the night just so we could all have a comfy sleep. It was that warm. It's a good thing our AC has a timer or it would have been on the whole night (and then imagine what our electricity bill would be like!). Anyway, I hope that tonight would not be as warm. And I hope that we would have less nights like this this summer!

.....

Because of all this hot weather, I'm now considering having my hair cut - SHORT. Really. I mean, if my constant hairstyle this summer is a ponytail or a bun, then I might as well have a bit of length snipped from my tresses. Anyway, I'm still thinking about it though. But if this weather doesn't let up then I'm off to the salon! (Dyu hear that, weather?)

.....

Last Monday, my sis, bro, the boys and I went to the mall. I wore my Levi's jeans and guess what? It fitted me really nicely! When Ruther bought that for me (hey, I'm a stay-at-home mom, okay, so I need my husband to buy me stuff =D) it was a bit tight around my tummy (you know, the part that expands when you're pregnant?). But last Monday, it wasn't tight at all! Yay! It was like a small victory and I feel really great that at least I'm losing some weight these days. I think it's because of the weather. You could perspire buckets in this heat. But then again, I don't care! I lost some weight! Hahaha!

Okay, I'm being silly but still, I'm happy! =D

IN THE POOL

Having loads of fun in the pool! When I told Nikki I was going to join them, he promptly said, "But Mommy, you can't come in! You're too big!" Ouch.

=p

ASIAN BEEF WITH SNOW PEAS

from family.go.com

3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice wine
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger root
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 pound beef round steak, cut into thin strips
8 ounces snow peas

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice wine, brown sugar and cornstarch. Set aside.
Heat oil in a wok or skillet over medium high heat. Stir-fry ginger and garlic for 30 seconds. Add the steak and stir-fry for 2 minutes or until evenly browned. Add the snow peas and stir-fry for an additional 3 minutes. Add the soy sauce mixture, bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Lower heat and simmer until the sauce is thick and smooth. Serve immediately.

4 servings

IT'S NOT EASY

I must admit, it's not easy homeschooling 2 boys with totally different personalities. I thought in the beginning that it was going to be quite easy because well, all we had to rely on were workbooks and textbooks but boy, was I ever more wrong. Homeschooling, as I later found out, is more than just books and academics. It's building character, making my boys enjoy learning and teaching them values. It's spending quality time with family and discovering new things and places together. It's appreciating the things around them, be it as simple as a leaf or as wondrous as a rainbow. What I thought at first was a nut, is in fact a huge tree! And then, just when I thought I had the hang of homeschooling, God drops onto my lap this really unique person (in the form of Ethan of course) that just literally wrecked my whole homeschooling plan.

Of course there are days when I ask myself, "What the heck am I thinking?" Of course there are times when I wonder "Will I be able to do this?" I get worried that we're doing too little. Then I get worried that we're doing too much. I get worried that Nikki might not be learning enough Math, or I get worried that Ethan will never be interested in worksheets. I get worried that the boys will one day question this choice I've made for them just as I've questioned some of my parents' decisions in the past. Yes, homeschooling is not all roses and yes there are days when I just want to spend one day not worrying about something.

But then, when Nikki comes to me all excited about a new song he played on his toy piano, or when Ethan shrieks in happiness about a bug he found, my spirits lift. When my boys learn from the other without any help from me whatsoever, my heart swells. When Nikki takes care of his brother and when Ethan listens (but rarely though) to his Kuya and obeys, I feel proud. When we walk to the park and we talk about the sky, the cloud formations, the fruit trees and the farm animals, I get inspired. And then I want to continue on this journey. I want to spend as much time as I can with my boys but at the same time, I want them to discover who they are without pressures and without labels. A recent news story about 3rd graders who wanted to hurt their teacher alarmed me somewhat. Although that happened many continents away, I realize how impressionable, vulnerable andmisguided some kids are these days (I said "some" okay?). I want my boys to have strong values so that when they go out into the world on their own, I am confident that they will not easily be swayed by the wrong things.

It's not easy being a 24/7 mom, but it's harder being a teacher to 2 totally different homeschoolers. But if the fruits of my labor are going to be all good, then by golly, I'm going to climb that tree until I reach the top.

SAY AAAHHH!

Took this photo in Baguio. Wish I could do something like this as well. Or perhaps something less creepy.

=D

FORGOT SOMETHING

April Fool's has come and gone and I forgot to mention something and why April 1 will always be remembered by Ruther and me.

Seven years ago, when Ruther and I were newly married, I found out that I was pregnant on this day. Yup, April 1, 2001 was the day when the strip revealed 2 lines and I discovered that I was going to have Nikki. Ruther was in Saudi at this time so I emailed him the news. I didn't realize that it was April 1 because I was all excited. He, of course, thought I was joking. I told him no and he got it. He knew he was going to be a dad! He was really happy and even wished that I was carrying twins (uh, okay, he's lucky I'm the one carrying the baby for 9 months). Anyway, shortly after that, he gave me a sweet card and a CD recording telling me about his excitement and recorded some songs that were special for both of us.

So yeah, April 1 may be a day of fools for some (which I think will include Ruther and my boys in the future) but for me, it will always be something special. =D

MAC AND CHEESE

from cookinglight.com

Stove-Top Macaroni and Cheese with Roasted Tomatoes

3 cups halved cherry tomatoes
Cooking spray
1/4 teaspoon black pepper object
3 ounces sourdough bread, torn into pieces
1 teaspoon butter, melted
12 ounces large elbow macaroni
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded extrasharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup egg substitute
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
1 (12-ounce) can evaporated low-fat milk

Preheat oven to 375°.
Place tomatoes in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle with black pepper. Bake at 375° for 30 minutes or until browned, stirring occasionally.
While tomatoes cook, place bread in a food processor; pulse 2 times or until crumbly. Toss crumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the crumbs on a baking sheet, and bake at 375° for 12 minutes or until golden, stirring frequently.
Cook macaroni in boiling water 7 minutes; drain. Return macaroni to pan; place over medium-low heat. Add cheese and remaining ingredients; cook 4 minutes or until cheese melts, stirring constantly. Stir in tomatoes. Sprinkle each serving with about 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs.

8 servings

THE FAN

Just when I thought things weren't going to get any hotter our electric fan suddenly just decided to die on us. Well, it didn't just die, it let out some smoke first and then it died. Yeah, it had to stink up the room first before being discarded. Uh, okay. You choose to die now, when it's summer?? Thanks a lot, fan.

Anyway, we can't not buy another electric fan because as it is, the house is already having some fan shortages and it's just so darn H-O-T. The living room downstairs does not have a fan and I guess that's only because we don't usually have parties and visitors these days. Also, we can't very well just rely on the AC to keep us cool so yeah, I NEED to buy another fan. And we did that today.

I decided to bring the boys along so they could have some fun at the mall. Anyway, we picked a fan that was not too big, not too colorful, not too weak and definitely not a desk fan. Nikki helped me choose. He was the wind gauge-r. He would tell me, "this fan is not strong, mommy" or "I like this fan, it's really fast". I guess he knows his stuff. So we ended up with a nice, black, really fast stand fan which I hope will last years and years. Anyway, after we got the fan, we bought some other things like juice and chips and chocolates (can't forget that!) and then we had some snacks after that and then I paid the bills and then we went home.

I quickly assembled the fan in no time. I think one of the plusses in having your husband away all the time is that you learn to be a handyman on your own (just don't let me do the plumbing - anything but that!). So yeah, I guess I could assemble a fan with my eyes shut. I don't even have to look at the instructions! Nikki was really happy with the fan. He immediately told me, "Steady the fan here, Mommy" as he was lying on the bed. You could tell who the fan fan is. =D

RAMIELE IS OUT

I just read that Ramiele Malubay, an Americal Idol finalist, was eliminated. That's just sad. And it's not just because she's a Filipina. I know she has got a lot of talent in that small frame of hers. Maybe it's just not her time right now. But I know that other doors will open for her in the future. She really made us proud and hopefully, she will continue to follow her dreams.

Well, since Ramiele is out, I guess that leaves me with my favorite Carly then. I think this woman is a born singer and performer. She really just adds so much soul and heart into her singing that I really can't wait for her first album. I would really love to hear it. So go go go Carly! Good luck! =D

CLICK!

Here's Ethan with his toy camera. When he realized that I was going to take his photo, he got his own camera and tried to take MY photo. =D

HERO SANDWICH

from recipezaar.com

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
1 dash garlic powder
4 drops Tabasco sauce
1 sesame baguette, split
1 lb assorted deli turkey or deli roast beef or deli ham
sliced swiss cheese
softened butter
1 tablespoon honey dijon mustard
lettuce leaves
thinly-sliced pickles
sliced pimento stuffed olives
sliced tomatoes

Combine mayonnaise, vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder and Tabasco.
Butter baguette- this acts as a seal to prevent the sandwich from getting soggy, and it tastes good too.
Spread with mustard.
Layer deli meats, cheese, lettuce, pickles, olives and tomatoes.
Season tomatoes lightly with salt and freshly ground pepper.
Spread mayonnaise over.
Cut baguette into 6 sandwiches, on the diagonal.

COOLING OFF

It's been so warm these past few days so I decided to fill the boys' pool with water so they could have fun and cool off at the same time. They really enjoyed splashing and playing with their toys in their birthday suits and in the shade of the garage. I wouldn't want them to get any more darker. While taking their photos, I teased Nikki that I was going into the pool to join them and he told me, "But Mommy, you're too big for the pool!" Ouch. Anyway, after they got tired, I covered their pool with a shower curtain to prevent mosquitoes from breeding there. They played in it again yesterday (twice) so now the water has to be replaced. But instead of just throwing it away, I'm planning to use it for watering the plants. Gotta do my part in saving earth's resources, right? =D

.....

I dreamed about Ruther last night. I dreamed that he came home unexpectedly from Japan and surprised me!! Wow. That was really a nice dream. Now, if only that could really happen...

.....

We're having overcast skies today! Woohoo! Anything that could block out the sun for a few hours is great because that means, we're not going to have another sizzling afternoon. I went to the bank yesterday while the boys were asleep and whew! it felt like my skin was burning. I suppose everytime I go out now, I would have to use sunblock (which I terribly hate by the way because it makes my skin so oily/greasy but my wonderful mother insists I use it otherwise I would look older than her and who am I to disobey?) but our current sunblock is past the expiration date so I would have to get another bottle - soon. Hmm. Maybe I should get a bottle for the boys as well.

MASK

Happy mask. =D

Photo taken at Tam-Awan Village, Baguio City.

CHICKEN BALLS

2 cup ground chicken
1 egg, beaten
1/2 cup onion (minced)
2 tbsp. ground garlic
1 cup celery (minced)
2 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tsp garlic salt (or less if the cheese is the salty kind)
1/2 C grated Cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon oil
1/2 cup crumbs of flour
1 teaspoon baking powder


Mix all except the last three ingredients very well. Form into small balls.
Roll in breadcrumbs or flour mixed with one teaspoon baking powder.
Fry in hot oil or bake. Serve with desired sauce. Serve hot.
Good for 6 persons.